As we approached the closing days of 2023, I found myself pondering over the top five games from the year. With yet another full year gone by, I’m thinking this reflection might just turn into an annual ritual for me.
2024 was nothing short of a whirlwind in the gaming industry. Yes, a slew of fantastic titles hit the shelves, but there were also plenty of stories and trends keeping our minds buzzing. As December rolled around, many of us gathered to celebrate the best offerings of the year, tuning into The Game Awards 2024, which not only highlighted the year’s achievements but also gave us a glimpse of the excitement awaiting in 2025.
Today, I want to dive into what I believe is the ultimate game of the year list: a true, objective, and undoubtedly factual rendition of the best games launched on Xbox and PC in 2024. Okay, maybe it’s the list in my eyes, based solely on the titles I played and finished. There were some amazing games I didn’t manage to explore, such as Balatro, Astro Bot, Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth, Silent Hill 2 (2024), and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth.
But I did sink my time into many other titles, and here are the ones that truly stood out for me.
5. The “Purrfect Adventure” Award — Cat Quest III
Some might find it surprising, but I confidently give this spot to Cat Quest III. In a year filled with notable contenders, this charming game etched a special place in my heart as one of the most enjoyable experiences. It’s not the largest or most ambitious project, nor does it boast cutting-edge graphics, but its sheer fun factor is undeniable.
Cat Quest III is a delightful, casual isometric RPG that’s just bursting with charm. It’s bright and simple, filled to the brim with cat puns and a playful universe. Its simplicity is its strength, offering straightforward gameplay designed purely for enjoyment without dwelling on bothersome details like “game balance.”
In my review of Cat Quest III, I summed it up as “a short, approachable RPG overflowing with smiles with its varied combat and delightful world full of furry characters. This game is perfect for all ages and even supports local two-player co-op.”
I completed every achievement in this game, and honestly, my only complaint is that it was over too soon. If you’re searching for 10 hours of pure RPG joy, Cat Quest III is genuinely outstanding.
4. The “I Didn’t Break My Controller” Award — Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Surprisingly, the first game I reviewed this year turned out to be one of the standout experiences of 2024. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown brought a refreshing take on the beloved franchise, shining as one of the finest Metroidvanias of the decade. It’s clear this gem was crafted with incredible care and passion.
From the storyline to the level design and combat, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown excels in every aspect. The gameplay is snappy and responsive, providing a rewarding exploration experience with well-calibrated challenges. Despite occasional frustration, I managed to keep my cool.
In my review, I noted, “While not a direct continuation of its predecessors, The Lost Crown is a truly enjoyable, challenging, and engaging Metroidvania platformer.” It’s heartbreaking the team won’t continue this series because it’s one of Ubisoft’s recent shining stars.
3. The “You Can Pet the Dog” Award — Neva
Stunning and breathtaking, Nomada Studio once again proves they’re in a league of their own, following their hit GRIS with the awe-inspiring Neva. This action-platformer captivates with its vibrant world and hand-drawn animations, enthralling players with an emotionally charged narrative.
With darkness looming, you and an orphaned cub set out on a journey of growth and rebirth. Neva weaves a poignant tale through the seasons, with an unfolding story that’s unforgettable despite its short duration.
My review concluded that “Neva positions Nomada Studio as a master of artistry, with impressive visuals and storytelling that amplify its emotional punch. Its gameplay sees significant improvements from GRIS, with engaging combat and platforming. If only it wasn’t over so soon.”
Beyond its beauty and narrative, Neva offers unexpectedly enjoyable combat and puzzles, marking it as one of 2024’s highlights.
2. The “Punch All the Fascists” Award — Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
This title is the only one on my list I didn’t personally review, having just wrapped it up before writing this. After a captivating 45-hour journey through ancient dungeons and exploring locales worldwide, I’m thrilled to have squeezed this adventure in before year-end. It’s a knockout.
Truthfully, it might have snagged the top spot if not for some glitches and frustrating segments. There’s even one photo that’s bugged, stopping me from completing the achievements (everything else is done, though). Setting that aside, the game’s stunning presentation and seamless performance on Xbox Series X deliver a perfect mix of immersive sim and puzzle-filled adventuring.
My colleague, Samuel Tolbert, noted, “MachineGames truly understands the iconic Nazi-fighting archeologist, offering thrilling exploration, perilous puzzles, and unexpected twists.”
Few things feel as satisfying as clobbering fascists while collecting hidden treasures in a beautifully designed world. While it didn’t quite clinch my personal top spot, it’s undoubtedly Xbox’s crowning achievement for 2024.
1. The “Humans Are the Real Monsters” Award — Metaphor: ReFantazio
This shouldn’t be a shock for those who know me. Metaphor: ReFantazio ran away with my game of the year accolade — something I certainly didn’t predict as we kicked off 2024. As someone without much familiarity with Japanese RPGs and a newcomer to the Persona saga, fate stepped in when I ended up reviewing this game, and boy am I glad it did.
Metaphor: ReFantazio is nothing short of remarkable. It blends strategic turn-based RPG elements with dynamic third-person action, immersing you in an unforgettable world. It tells a gripping story of magic, friendship, conflict, and the timeless tug-of-war between ideals.
In my review, I described it as “the best game I’ve played this year, with a deeply affecting and skillfully told narrative, compelling characters, stellar RPG mechanics, and a unique art style. It argues persuasively for the ‘game of the year’ title.”
The art style may not appeal to everyone, nor does it focus heavily on gameplay, but its artistic direction, character development, and stunning soundtrack make it a masterpiece. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
Honorable Mentions
Now onto a few other noteworthy games that just missed the cut. These are extraordinary titles that I love and champion, but they didn’t quite reach the peak of the year’s best.
Star Wars Outlaws
Star Wars Outlaws initially left me skeptical, but its open-world action-adventure setting in the Star Wars universe ultimately won me over. Ubisoft published this gem, steering away from EA’s usual hold on the franchise. With little to no Jedi influence, the game’s focus shifts to the underworld.
Though not a top contender in my eyes, it’s a spectacular world bursting with opportunities that defy the typical “Ubisoft” critique. Despite its flaws, the hours I spent in it felt rewarding. As my colleague Rebecca Spear observed, its world-building is astonishing.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
This latest entry in the franchise was a long-overdue return to form. Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 re-energized a series that’s been stumbling through patches of mediocrity. The great multiplayer owes its success to a well-executed campaign brimming with thrilling narrative elements.
Cole Martin praised it in her review, and I have no objections. If you drifted from Call of Duty in recent years, Black Ops 6 might be the game to rekindle your interest.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II came tantalizingly close to cracking my top 5. This visually and audibly stunning game extends Senua’s journey with a narrative exploring trauma, mythology, and survival.
Its breathtaking technical prowess doesn’t overshadow its incredible storytelling. Melina Juergens’ portrayal as Senua adds the final layer to this masterpiece. Despite its brevity, Hellblade II remains a powerful gaming experience.
Looking Ahead to 2025
This year I wrapped up 40 games, fewer than 2023, with larger titles like Pillars of Eternity occupying much of my time. Although I clocked in numerous completions, my backlog somehow grew. But hey, hitting that 150,000 gamerscore with Indiana Jones was a sweet milestone!
I eagerly anticipate 2025, expecting it to belong to Xbox if their lineup releases as planned. At the top of my list is Avowed, but I’m also eager for Fable, The Outer Worlds 2, Doom: The Dark Ages, and South of Midnight.
I’m hyped to dive into Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, and there are many more titles like Monster Hunter Wilds that could pique my interest if time permits. With so many exciting releases on the horizon, tackling my backlog feels ever more daunting. Will I ever shrink it? At this point, my hopes aren’t high!
