As we approach the end of 2024, it’s time to dig into an intriguing topic: which games truly stood out this year?
Throughout this week, our team will be spotlighting their favorite picks from the year across the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch platforms. While covering every release isn’t feasible, these are the gems that made a lasting impact on us.
Once you’ve had a look at our selections, we’d love to hear about your own favorites! Drop your top games of the year in the comments below.
This year ushered in some eagerly awaited games and even a shiny new gadget with the PlayStation 5 Pro. The lineup included captivating titles like the sequel, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and The Last of Us Part II Remastered, to name a few. We couldn’t catch them all, but your input on the standout games is welcome! Share what you loved in the comments below!
My Game of the Year: Astro Bot (PlayStation 5 Exclusive)
Astro Bot on the PlayStation 5 blew me away as an outstanding platformer. I had been eagerly anticipating its release. The level design kept me thoroughly engaged as I navigated each planet, on a quest to find the missing bots and special puzzle pieces. Each planet offered unique gameplay mechanics and power-ups that kept the experience fresh and exciting right to the finish. The boss battles were particularly enjoyable. If you haven’t tried it yet, consider giving it a go!
Honorable Mention: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (PS4/PS5, and Nintendo Switch)
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has earned its place as a follow-up to 2020’s Final Fantasy VII Remake and serves as the middle chapter in a trilogy expanding the world of Final Fantasy VII. Players join Cloud and his crew on a breathtaking journey through magnificent and expansive environments that feel alive.
The combat system has received subtle yet significant upgrades, making battles even more thrilling. The storyline adds new twists that will take even die-hard fans by surprise. And don’t miss the fantastic opera scene—it’s a stunner!
Optimized for the PlayStation 5 Pro, the game offers a detailed mode running seamlessly at 60 frames per second, enhancing visual splendor. I relished my adventure with Final Fantasy VII Rebirth—an impressive progression of a classic tale.
Honorable Mention: Cat Quest III (PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch)
Cat Quest III exceeded all my expectations with its extended playtime, open-world exploration, and engaging gameplay. It stands out as one of the finest adventure games I’ve played this year, and I highly recommend it for gamers seeking an adorable yet action-packed experience.
Honorable Mention: Ys X: Nordics (PS4/PS5, and Nintendo Switch)
Ys X: Nordics is an enthralling game where players unravel the secrets of the Obelian Gulf and learn to wield Mana—a special skill exclusive to Normans. Players venture through the Obelian Gulf, gathering more allies and upgrading their ship to keep pace. I cherished uncovering new regions, making it a strong recommendation for fans of action RPGs or the long-standing Ys series.
Honorable Mention: Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake (PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch)
The Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is a delightful reimagining of the 1988 classic, Dragon Quest III: The Seeds of Salvation (aka Dragon Warrior III in North America). Built on the stunning HD-2D game engine, also seen in the Octopath Traveler series, this remake dazzles visually.
Remaining true to its roots, it provides a quintessential turn-based JRPG experience. Revisiting the story was a pleasure, especially as I had forgotten much of it since my childhood. The Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra’s score elevates the game, enriching the nostalgic yet renewed adventure.
Honorable Mention: Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE Plus
In Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE Plus, players unravel puzzles as a member of the World Detective Organization. Initially released on the Nintendo Switch last year, the definitive edition is now available on PlayStation 5. You step into Yuma Kokohead’s shoes, awakening in a mysterious storage room without memories and hearing an unfamiliar voice. A badge from the World Detective Organization and a train boarding pass found in your pocket kick-start your adventure.
Boarding the train, you encounter your first mystery: there are six detectives instead of the expected five. As the other passengers are also from the World Detective Organization, suspicions of espionage arise. Piece by piece, over hours, you’ll unravel this mystery and set the chronology straight. Can you identify the culprit?
Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll spotlight the best PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch games later this week!
Now tell us: what were YOUR top games this year?
