As we near the end of 2024, it's clear that the gaming industry has gifted us with a wealth of standout titles, many of which may have flown under the radar. While some games garner massive attention, others carve out a quiet, yet equally captivating, space in the gaming world. Here's a look at some of the standout releases you may have missed in 2024.
Nine Sols
PS4/5, Xbox, PC, Nintendo Switch
Red Candle Games, the Taiwanese studio behind the haunting Devotion, has returned with Nine Sols, a game that shifts from psychological horror to a striking 2D action-platformer. Combining a rich "taopunk" aesthetic, Nine Sols immerses players in a world where traditional materials like bamboo and jade meet futuristic technology. The result is a visually stunning experience that blends vibrant sci-fi with a unique cultural identity. It's a beautiful and distinct journey through a world that feels like it's carved from both nature and tech, setting it apart from the typical 2D action games of 2024.
Ultros
PS4/5, PC
In a year overflowing with fantastic Metroidvania titles, Ultros stands out with its surreal, psychedelic atmosphere and unexpected ecological twist. Players are tasked with navigating a labyrinthine spaceship, engaging in fast-paced combat, and cultivating alien flora that thrives in the ship's bioluminescent corridors. The game's lush, otherworldly gardens may just become as compelling as its action, drawing players into a serene world where survival and growth intertwine. While the ultimate goal is escape, Ultros encourages you to appreciate the strange beauty of the environment—making it hard to leave.
Manor Lords
PC
A quiet success in the strategy genre, Manor Lords has emerged as an unexpected gem. Blending city-building, economic management, and historical authenticity, it invites players to shepherd a medieval village through cycles of fortune and famine. While still in development, the game has already captivated players with its atmospheric charm and nuanced mechanics. The slow but steady updates only add to the sense of anticipation, and it's easy to see how Manor Lords could become a favorite for fans of medieval strategy. Its relaxing yet challenging gameplay offers a deep and meditative experience that's well worth the wait.
SteamWorld Heist II
PS4/5, Xbox, PC, Nintendo Switch
The SteamWorld franchise continues to deliver quirky and fun adventures, and SteamWorld Heist II is no exception. This sequel ups the ante with tactical turn-based gunfights set against the backdrop of a submarine journey. Players once again experience the joy of carefully planning shots, sending laser beams ricocheting through rooms, and engaging in delightfully absurd shootouts. The clever mix of steampunk aesthetic and tactical combat ensures that this game remains as enjoyable as its predecessor, proving that 2D action-platformers can still pack a punch.
Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl
PC, Xbox
Set in the irradiated wasteland of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, Stalker 2 is a survival shooter that masterfully combines first-person shooting with survival horror. In this highly anticipated sequel, players face off against mutants and navigate a brutal environment while trying to stay alive. The vast open world, branching narratives, and multiple endings ensure that no two playthroughs are alike. What makes Stalker 2 even more poignant is its development during the ongoing war in Ukraine, making the game a tribute to the resilience of its creators at GSC Game World.
The Crush House
PC
Described as a "thirst-person shooter," The Crush House is a sharp satirical take on reality TV culture. Set inside a twisted, 1999-era Big Brother-style game show, you play as the producer whose seemingly perfect job spirals into a nightmare. The game critiques society's obsession with voyeuristic entertainment, offering a darkly humorous look at the exploitation behind the glitzy reality TV world. With its biting commentary and offbeat humor, The Crush House provides a unique and refreshing experience for those looking for something more than the typical action-packed title.
Frostpunk 2
PC (PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S planned for 2025)
Frostpunk was a defining title in the survival city-builder genre, and its sequel, Frostpunk 2, elevates the concept with even more intricate systems and grander scale. While it may not capture the same gut-wrenching intensity as the original, it still offers a deeply engrossing experience that will keep players hooked. Managing resources, constructing a new society, and facing a frozen apocalypse once again form the core of the game. Frostpunk 2 may be a bit more sprawling, but it retains that same compulsive need to survive, whether you're building or simply trying to hold onto what little you have left.
Conclusion
2024 has been an exceptional year for gaming, with a range of titles offering something for every type of player. Whether you enjoy action-packed sci-fi adventures, deep strategy games, or thought-provoking social commentaries, these hidden gems are worth your attention. As the year winds down, make sure to explore these fantastic releases that may not have made the biggest splash but offer some of the most rewarding and unique gaming experiences.