BEST GAMES OF 2024

Summary

In this video, Jake Baldino and the Game Ranks team highlight their Top 10 Game Picks for 2024, showcasing a variety of standout titles across different genres. From the action-packed **Black Myth: Wukong** to the creative JRPG **Metaphor: ReFantasio**, the list features both AAA blockbusters and indie gems like **Batro**, an addictive rogue-like card game. **Indiana Jones and the Great Circle** and **Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2** are notable mentions for their thrilling gameplay, while **Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth** delivers a nostalgic yet fresh experience. The team also shares honorable mentions, emphasizing the diversity and excitement in 2024's gaming landscape.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Game Ranks team, led by Jake Baldino, shared their top game picks for 2024, focusing on a mix of AAA titles and indie gems.
• 😀 The list includes a variety of genres such as action, RPG, Metroidvania, and platformers, showcasing a broad spectrum of gaming experiences.
• 😀 *Black Myth: Wukong* is praised for its unique story inspired by Chinese mythology, along with exciting combat and memorable boss battles.
• 😀 *Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown* gets recognition for its tight controls, Metroidvania-style gameplay, and return to the series' 2D platformer roots.
• 😀 *Indiana Jones and the Great Circle* stands out as a surprisingly good movie tie-in, with detailed worlds, satisfying stealth, and hand-to-hand combat.
• 😀 *Batro* is an addictive rogue-like card game that captivated players throughout the year, praised for its engaging mechanics and entrancing visuals.
• 😀 *Metaphor: ReFantasio* is highlighted as a creative JRPG from the creators of *Persona*, offering deep storytelling, a unique world, and challenging gameplay.
• 😀 *Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2* is recognized for its throwback action shooter style, great multiplayer modes, and its ability to pull players into the Warhammer universe.
• 😀 Despite a rough launch, *S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chernobyl* remains a compelling and atmospheric game, with continued updates and potential for future modding.
• 😀 *Nine Souls*, an action-packed indie game, stands out for its challenging gameplay, engaging combat, and creative storytelling, making it a hidden gem in 2024.
• 😀 *AstroBot* is celebrated as a delightful, family-friendly platformer that brings nostalgia to PlayStation fans, with great level design and fun gameplay.
• 😀 *Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth* delivers a successful sequel with improved gameplay, exciting combat, and a reimagined story that enhances the beloved original.
• 😀 Honorable mentions include *Animal Well*, an indie puzzle game with a unique dreamlike world, and *Batman: Arkham Shadow*, a VR-exclusive entry in the Arkham series.
• 😀 The Game Ranks team emphasizes that the list is a collective effort, with input from various team members, not just Jake's personal preferences.

Q & A

What is the Game Ranks team’s approach to selecting their 2024 Game of the Year picks?

The Game Ranks team selects their Game of the Year picks through a collective effort involving everyone on the team, including contributors behind the scenes. The choices reflect their shared favorites from the year, rather than any single individual’s opinion, with a focus on genuine recommendations.

Why is 'Black Myth: Wukong' considered a standout game for 2024?

'Black Myth: Wukong' is praised for its fun and engaging action gameplay, exciting boss battles, and a unique setting based on the classic Chinese novel 'Journey to the West.' The game is described as having killer graphics, a great soundtrack, and being a refreshing, original experience amidst a sea of remakes and reboots.

How does 'Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown' stand out in 2024?

'Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown' is noted for its strong return to the franchise’s 2D platformer roots with a Metroidvania twist. It’s lauded for tight controls, excellent platforming, and surprisingly deep combat and navigation, which make it an outstanding title, especially given its early 2024 release.

What makes 'Indiana Jones and the Great Circle' unique in the gaming landscape?

'Indiana Jones and the Great Circle' is recognized as an exceptionally well-done movie tie-in game that captures the essence of Indiana Jones through detailed worlds, fun stealth and combat mechanics, and immersive storytelling. The game is appreciated for feeling like an old-fashioned adventure game with no microtransactions and a focus on fun.

Why is 'Batro' considered one of the most addictive games of 2024?

'Batro' stands out due to its highly addictive rogue-like gameplay, captivating music, and impressive visuals. Despite being a simple card game, its design keeps players hooked, and its mechanics have led to hundreds of hours of play without any major updates, demonstrating the game’s inherent appeal.

What are the key features of 'Metaphor: ReFantazio' that make it a must-play for JRPG fans?

'Metaphor: ReFantazio' offers a unique and creative experience with its impressive world-building, memorable characters, and a story that attempts to explore more than typical medieval fantasy tropes. Its over-the-top visual style, dynamic menus, and Persona-like energy are complemented by a deeper narrative that resonates with JRPG fans.

What nostalgic elements does 'Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2' bring to players?

'Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2' is appreciated for its throwback to classic action-shooter games from the Xbox 360 and PS3 era, with gory, over-the-top action and a gripping campaign. It also introduces multiplayer modes that keep players engaged, and serves as an entry point into the Warhammer 40K universe for many newcomers.

How has 'Stalker 2: Heart of Chernobyl' evolved since its rough launch?

'Stalker 2: Heart of Chernobyl' initially launched in a rough state but has steadily improved through updates, addressing bugs and performance issues. The game remains compelling due to its immersive atmosphere and hardcore gameplay, and the developers have been responsive to fan feedback, making it a worthwhile experience for dedicated players.

What makes 'Nine Souls' stand out among indie games in 2024?

'Nine Souls' is highlighted for its intense sidescrolling action, responsive controls, and high difficulty that feels fair rather than frustrating. Influenced by games like 'Hollow Knight' and 'Sekiro,' it delivers a satisfying challenge with excellent storytelling, captivating visuals, and a unique punk setting.

Why is 'Astro Bot' seen as a standout platformer in 2024?

'Astro Bot' is praised for its nostalgic appeal and being a top-notch family-friendly platformer. It combines creativity, level design, and varied environments to deliver a joyful experience. Despite leaning on PlayStation nostalgia, the game is described as a fun, heartwarming adventure that captures the magic of classic platformers.

What are the main reasons for 'Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth' receiving a Game of the Year recommendation?

'Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth' is recognized for its compelling blend of nostalgia and innovation, with improved combat and gameplay over the remake. The game allows players to spend more time in the richly detailed Midgar setting and offers a fresh take on the original story. Its narrative twists, particularly involving the character Zack, left a lasting impression and contributed to its Game of the Year recommendation.