As 2024 enters its final stretch, the gaming landscape has proven to be anything but predictable. While major titles like Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, Dragon’s Dogma 2, and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth delivered the polished experiences fans expected, it’s the year’s surprise entries that have truly captured players’ attention and stolen the spotlight.
2023 may have been a powerhouse of prestige releases—think Baldur’s Gate 3, Street Fighter 6, Alan Wake 2—but this year has delivered a rich mix of heavy-hitters and under-the-radar successes that have resonated with both critics and the community. Unexpected standouts like the chaotic fun of Helldivers 2, the wonderfully strange British comedy in Thank Goodness You’re Here, and not one but two refreshing takes on Prince of Persia prove that bold creative risks are alive and well in 2024.
Add in some of the most compelling indie titles of the last few years, strong performances from familiar franchises, and a few hidden gems waiting to be discovered, and 2024 has shaped up to be one of the most eclectic and enjoyable gaming years in recent memory.
To qualify for this curated selection, each game received a GameSpot review score of 8 or higher—a benchmark that reflects genuine excellence. That said, just because a title didn’t crack that score threshold doesn’t mean it isn’t worth your time. There’s still a lot of fun to be found beyond the spotlight.
🌒 Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree — ★10/10
FromSoftware’s much-anticipated expansion to its 2022 epic is everything fans hoped for and more. Shadow of the Erdtree isn’t just an add-on; it’s a triumph that completes Elden Ring’s narrative arc while adding brutal boss fights, hauntingly beautiful landscapes, and fresh mechanics that elevate the entire experience. It earned GameSpot’s first perfect 10 of 2024—and deservedly so.
🐉 Metaphor: ReFantazio — ★10/10
Atlus steps beyond the shadow of its Persona franchise and into full-blown fantasy, crafting a stunning RPG that dazzles on every front. From layered, strategic turn-based battles to deeply compelling characters and a world brimming with wonder, Metaphor: ReFantazio isn’t just a standout—it’s a genre-defining work of art that showcases Atlus at its peak.
🤖 Astro Bot — ★9/10
Team Asobi proves that their charming PS5 mascot is no one-hit wonder. Astro Bot builds upon the foundation laid by Astro’s Playroom with precision platforming, imaginative level design, and flawless integration of DualSense controller features. It’s a game that celebrates play itself, making each level a joy to discover.
🐾 Animal Well — ★9/10
At first glance, Animal Well might appear to be a cute little indie game—but don’t let its appearance fool you. This metroidvania-style adventure dives into the bizarre with each new room. Designed entirely by solo dev Billy Basso, the game offers a strange, neon-lit labyrinth filled with secrets, psychological puzzles, and a growing sense of unease that keeps you hooked.
🃏 Balatro — ★9/10
Poker and roguelikes might not sound like an obvious match, but Balatro turns that concept into a gripping, cerebral thrill ride. With its fast-paced rounds and deep deck-building strategy, it pulls players into a loop that’s as addictive as it is rewarding. It’s easy to start and impossible to stop.
🌌 Destiny 2: The Final Shape — ★9/10
After years of lore-building and community debate, Bungie closes out its epic Light and Darkness saga in spectacular form. The Final Shape isn’t just a narrative high point—it introduces gameplay refinements, emotional story beats, and a final act that brought players together like never before. It’s a heartfelt goodbye that also hints at new beginnings.
⚔️ Dragon’s Dogma 2 — ★9/10
Over a decade since its cult-classic predecessor, Dragon’s Dogma 2 returns with a massive open world, responsive combat, and the same sense of discovery that made the first game so beloved. While not a revolutionary sequel, it refines and amplifies what made the original special, delivering a sprawling fantasy sandbox packed with moment-to-moment excitement.
🔥 Hades II (Early Access) — ★9/10
Even in its early development stage, Hades II is shaping up to be a top contender for game of the year. Supergiant Games has built upon the acclaimed formula of the original, introducing new mythological twists, expanded combat, and rich storytelling that deepens every run. The fact that it’s this good so early bodes incredibly well for its full release.
🏺 Indiana Jones and the Great Circle — ★9/10
MachineGames—known for the Wolfenstein reboot—nails the tone and style of everyone’s favorite archaeologist in a thrilling new chapter. The Great Circle captures the whip-cracking, puzzle-solving, Nazi-punching essence of Indy with cinematic flair. It’s a love letter to classic adventure stories and a technical triumph in its own right.
