The Best Games of 2024 | Fresh New Year, Fresh New Reviews

Want to know the best games of 2024? Fret not, for Game8 has your back. Here is a list of the year's top-scoring games. Read on to see the game information, release dates, and our scores for 2024’s best games.

The Best Games of 2024

War Hospital

Overall Score
76/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	9/10	8/10	6/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
January 11	Brave Lamb Studio	Nacon
Systems
PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5

War Hospital is a deeply engrossing RTS with great visuals, addictive gameplay full of decisions that affect the gameplay, and fantastic depth regarding prospering through hours and hours of playtime. It reaches high heights with its excellent micromanagement gameplay and immersive atmosphere.

Omega Crafter

Overall Score
76/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
6/10	8/10	8/10	8/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 28, 2024	Preferred Networks	Preferred Networks
Systems
PC

Omega Crafter is something of an unfinished crafting recipe. At the moment, a few pieces are missing and it’s mostly still under construction, but the general idea is coming through well, and its most prominent features are standing out nicely. It’s a serviceable experience for now, but I look forward to the fruition of its undeniable potential.

Spirit City Lofi Sessions

Overall Score
76/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
5/10	7/10	9/10	10/10	7/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
April 8, 2024	Mooncube Games	Mooncube Games
Systems
PC

Spirit City Lofi Sessions brings the Lofi Girl experience to life. It is a unique game where you spend most of your time outside of the game, as it is a productivity tool first and foremost. With its charming visuals, soothing Lofi music, and rewards system, the experience truly fosters a sense of relaxation and motivation. However, while it effectively cultivates a productive and relaxing environment, the game's lack of content may not fully warrant its price tag, especially given the availability of comparable productivity tools for free.

BlazBlue Entropy Effect

Overall Score
76/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
5/10	9/10	7/10	7/10	10/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
January 31, 2024	91Act	91Act
Systems
PC

BlazBlue Entropy Effect succeeded in delivering a really, REALLY fun roguelike experience. The gameplay flows smoothly with a variety of different modifiers and abilities that really enhance each character greatly. It’s probably one of the better roguelikes in terms of gameplay I’ve played so far, and for a cheap price of $21.99, you could sink a lot of time just by playing the different characters available in the game.

Home Safety Hotline

Overall Score
76/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	8/10	8/10	9/10	6/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
January 17, 2024	Night Signal Entertainment	Night Signal Entertainment
Systems
PC

Home Safety Hotline is a brief but great analog horror experience where you take calls to accurately determine the supernatural. The overall narrative serves its purpose, the gameplay is basic but intriguing, and the aesthetics and the audio all serve to further immerse the players. However, it falls short of being more replayable, given that there is so much more potential “game” that can be had. Nevertheless, it chose to be short and sweet and does well to captivate through and through.

The Thaumaturge

Overall Score
76/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	8/10	8/10	7/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 21, 2024	Fool's Theory	11 bit studios
Systems
PC

Despite its promising premise as a captivating, story-driven detective-like adventure focused on demon-catching, The Thaumaturge falls short in execution. Its narrative and characters lack depth exacerbated by its subpar voice acting. However, amidst these disappointments, one can still find solace and enjoyment in its immersive 20th-century European setting, unique turn-based combat reminiscent of Pokémon, and impactful dialogue choices that meaningfully shape the narrative.

Death of a Wish

Overall Score
76/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	9/10	7/10	7/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 11, 2024	melessthanthree	Syndicate Atomic
Systems
PC, Nintendo Switch

Death of a Wish is a wonderfully flashy game with frenetic combat that is tremendously addicting and satisfying. Powered up by its strikingly unique visuals and energetic background tracks, it lends itself to a dark, surreal, and otherworldly atmosphere of a hurt young boy seeking revenge on those who wronged him.

The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered

Overall Score
78/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	9/10	9/10	8/10	6/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
January 19, 2024	Naughty Dog	Sony Interactive Entertainment
Systems
Playstation 5

The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered gives you the excuse to play the game, whether you wanna experience it again or a new player who didn't get to experience its initial release. The new roguelike mode focuses on the game’s gritty, methodical, and intense combat which highlights its best foot forward. However, the game is more of Director’s Cut or a PS5 upgrade than calling it a remaster as compared to its previous iteration. Or maybe it was just too soon for them to rehash such a controversial game.

Sons of Valhalla

Overall Score
78/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	9/10	9/10	8/10	6/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
April 5, 2024	Pixel Chest	Hooded Horse
Systems
PC(Steam)

Sons of Valhalla is an ode to older 2D strategy games by combining it with quick side-scrolling combat and base-building strategy. It has a decent premise, a unique gameplay loop, and a visually pleasing look, but lacks more on the execution of its roguelike elements and pacing. It's a great game to explore the strategy genre, despite not being the most thought provoking game out there.

Holo X Break

Overall Score
78/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
6/10	8/10	8/10	7/10	10/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
MARCH 30, 2024	KayAnimate	holo Indie
Systems
PC(Steam)

Holo X Break pays homage to the addictive charm of classic arcade beat-em-ups, blending entertainment with a wave of nostalgia. Crafted with passion by devoted hololive fans, its adoration shines through in the form of delightful Easter egg references and a diverse roster of beloved hololive talents, each offering a unique and engaging experience. While there's room for improvement, it remains a solid fun arcade game for both fans and newcomers. And the fact that it's free to play? Just the icing on the cake.

Granblue Fantasy

Overall Score
78/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	8/10	9/10	7/10	7/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 1, 2024	Cygames Inc.	Cygames Inc.
Systems
PC(Steam), PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4

Granblue Fantasy: Relink is a stellar example of having a great franchise and broadening its horizons by putting it in a new genre. Its colorful cast of characters paired with a combat system that pairs well with co-op is a match made in heaven. It’s a great experience for solo and co-op players alike, as the story is good enough to keep you interested and the co-op is great enough to have both variety and progression.

Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League

Overall Score
78/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
5/10	10/10	10/10	10/10	4/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 2, 2024	Rocksteady Studios	Warner Bros. Games
Systems
PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League is a generous shot of rip-roaring good fun in an otherwise grim setting. Stellar graphics, amazing voice acting, and smooth-as-butter gameplay all come together to create a frenetic, heart-pounding skirmish through the ruins of Metropolis. More time in the oven could have done this game some good, however, as server shutdowns and live service woes continue to bog down its quality well into its release.

Helldivers 2

Overall Score
78/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
5/10	9/10	9/10	8/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 8, 2024	PC, PS5	PC, PS5
Systems
PC

Helldivers 2 is a mighty fun time especially with friends, family, and anyone you might want to “accidentally” flatten with a supply package. Its transition from a isometric co-op shooter to a third person co-op shooter makes a gigantic difference in gameplay even if the goal of spreading freedom and democracy is the same.

Garden Life

Overall Score
78/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	8/10	9/10	8/10	6/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 22, 2024	stillalive studios	Nacon
Systems
PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch

Garden Life succeeds in giving justice to its title of being a cozy simulator. Its sincere story premise, captivating visual art style, repetitive but addicting gameplay loop, and relaxing ambience from its music and sound effects all combine to serve up a calming experience of garden caretaking. Tending to plants and decorating the garden with various knick-knacks have never been more cozy.

Necrosmith 2

Overall Score
80/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
5/10	9/10	9/10	7/10	10/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 27, 2024	Alawar	Alawar
Systems
PC (Steam)

Necrosmith 2 is a Frankenstein's monster of game genres, stitched together with addictive rogue-lite, action-packed automated battles, and strategic gameplay that is more addicting than a Zombie’s addiction to Brains! Its blend of elements somehow works seamlessly. Whether you're exploring expansive biomes or defending your tower against relentless monsters, the thrill never dies down. Not to mention, this game’s gorgeously deadly visuals are a feast for the eyes. However, like the resurrected dead, some AI opponents can leave you feeling dismembered and frustrated.

Buckshot Roulette

Overall Score
80/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	7/10	9/10	7/10	10/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
April 4, 2024	Mike Klubnika	CRITICAL REFLEX
Systems
PC(Steam, Browser, Windows)

Buckshot Roulette is an interactive work of art that neatly combines its grungy industrialist visuals with legitimately fun gameplay and macabre environmental storytelling. Some players might find the true randomness in the game’s main gameplay loop to be frustrating, but I suppose that’s just a part of its message. Maybe it could be a little more substantial, but what little I did get blew me (and my head) away.

Mario vs. Donkey Kong

Overall Score
80/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
6/10	9/10	9/10	8/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 16, 2024	Retro Studios	Nintendo
Systems
Nintendo Switch

Nintendo is two-for-two with their recent remakes so far, as they start the year with the positively perplexing puzzle platformer that is Mario vs. Donkey Kong. Though this game isn’t as meaty a platformer as one would expect from Nintendo, its simple premise and effective execution make it more than worthwhile — if you can forgive its empty Koopa shell of a story and “Baby Mode”. You're gonna get your brain teased and then some when you come after DK in this worthy remake to the 2004 Game Boy classic.

WWE 2K24

Overall Score
80/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
9/10	8/10	8/10	8/10	7/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 8, 2024	Visual Concepts	2K
Systems
PC(Steam), PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One

WWE 2K24 is reflective of the forward-thinking disposition the sports entertainment company, WWE, undoubtedly fosters now. Offering fans a powerhouse of wrestling history, an extensive roster, engaging gameplay, and immersive storytelling, it will surely keep you on the edge of your seat. WWE 2K24 is an all-encompassing wrestling experience in the form of a video game.

Highwater

Overall Score
80/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	7/10	8/10	9/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 14, 2024, for PC and Console, December 2022 for Mobile	Demagog Studio	Rogue Games, Inc.
Systems
PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, Switch, Mobile

Highwater provides a solid adventure game experience set in a dystopian world where most of the Earth has been flooded. It features a simple yet smart turn-based puzzle combat system where you have to use the environment around you to your advantage. It looks stunning and sounds great. It's plagued by some annoying issues, but at the very most, they're mostly just minor inconveniences we could easily overlook. It's not a ground-breaking gaming experience, but it's good enough to be worth your time.

Rise of The Ronin

Overall Score
80/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	8/10	8/10	9/10	7/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 22, 2024	Koei Tecmo Games, Team NINJA	Sony Interactive Entertainment
Systems
PS5

Rise of The Ronin is a good enough addition to the ever-increasing ranks of soulslike games. While blessed with a fun back-and-forth style combat loop that emphasizes parries and routes a la Sekiro, its open-world layer feels more like a checklist than an actual exploration. A similar give-and-take scenario is present in all the game’s facets, leaving it a slightly imperfect, but good enough successor to Team NINJA’s other games. At the end of the day, it’s samurai with guns. What’s not to love?

Princess Peach: Showtime!

Overall Score
80/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	9/10	9/10	6/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 22, 2024	Good-Feet	Nintendo
Systems
Switch

Let's give a standing ovation to Princess Peach Showtime! Peach gracefully takes the limelight once more after 18 years, this time without Mario by her side. While it doesn't stray far from the familiar Mario formula and encounters some frame rate hiccups, the game dazzles with its theatrical flair and diverse mini-game-like gameplay. Peach truly shines as the star of the show, effortlessly slipping into a variety of roles with charm and finesse. It's clear she was born to be the leading lady! This game is a Broadway show like no other, and here’s hoping for more leading roles for Peach in the future.

Bandle Tale

Overall Score
82/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	8/10	9/10	8/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 21, 2024	Lazy Bear Games	Riot Forge
Systems
PC, Nintendo Switch

Bandle Tale is a fun and addicting crafting/farming game with an amazing cozy vibe. While there may be some issues with regards to the pace and how it teaches you how the game works, it is very enjoyable in its gameplay loop, story, as well as its music. If you were part of the Animal Crossing craze back in 2020, you will surely enjoy this game as it definitely feels like the perfect chill game to just relax and have fun.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

Overall Score
82/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	9/10	8/10	8/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
January 18, 2024	Ubisoft	Ubisoft
Systems
PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown honors the legacy of its series while bringing its own unique, fresh modern take by going back to the 2D roots of the original series but with a Metroidvania twist. It successfully creates a captivating and nostalgic adventure for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

Rebel Transmute

Overall Score
82/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	9/10	8/10	8/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 11, 2024(PC), March 14 (Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch)	Evan Tor Games	JanduSoft
Systems
PC(Steam), Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch

Rebel Transmute is a definitive take of a classic Metroidvania with impressive levels of polish and care. From its carefully penned story, to its responsive controls that lends itself to achieving satisfying gameplay, classic pixel art aesthetics, and beautifully-apt soundtrack, Rebel Transmute is a must-play for all fans and newcomers to the genre.

Alone in the Dark

Overall Score
82/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	7/10	8/10	8/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 20, 2024	Pieces Interactive	THQ Nordic
Systems
PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Alone in the Dark emerges as a tightly woven mystery, paying homage to its roots while feeling like a tale taken straight out of a wonderfully written Lovecraftian horror book. Skillfully interweaving a deepening plot with the fear of the unknown, it wonderfully navigates the intricacies of suspense and intrigue. Though its combat feels underwhelming, the game compensates with a gripping narrative, elaborate puzzles, and spine-chilling horror elements.

AMEDAMA

Overall Score
82/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	8/10	9/10	9/10	7/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 22, 2024 (Early Access)	IzanagiGames, ACQUIRE Corp.	IzanagiGames
Systems
PC (Steam)

AMEDAMA is a weird game. Thankfully in a good way, as it combines straight-laced and beautifully crafted Japanese art and music with a rather wacky possession mechanic, decent combat, and a story with a good amount of branching paths that will make you want to see most, if not all the possible endings. There’s just something so funny about staring at this peaceful rainy Japanese town scene before it gets disrupted by you in the body of an old man kicking every person in sight. Though it’s a bit expensive for what it offers, AMEDAMA is a high-quality piece of art, with a decent game to boot.

South Park: Snow Day!

Overall Score
84/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
9/10	8/10	9/10	9/10	7/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 26, 2024	Question	THQ Nordic
Systems
PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch

South Park: Snow Day! provides fans with yet another opportunity to be part of what feels like an authentic South Park episode. It’s a great experience with tons of references and crude humor fans would undoubtedly enjoy. Its story is great, and so are the visuals and audio. Gameplay is arguably its weakest point, but still isn’t bad at all. The art style may be a little bit different, but make no mistake, this is up there with Stick of Truth and Fractured But Whole.

Beat Slayer

Overall Score
84/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
6/10	9/10	8/10	10/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
April 4, 2024	ByteRockers' Games	ByteRockers' Games
Systems
PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch

Beat Slayer rocks! It’s a challenging but fair, riff-tastic roguelite! With electrifying tunes that'll make your head bang harder than a drum solo, it's all about grooving to the rhythm while slaying foes. Sure, there might be a few tempo hiccups in boss battles, and some dungeons might feel repetitive but overall, it's a symphony of fun and creativity, especially for music-loving gamers!

Sovereign Syndicate

Overall Score
84/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
10/10	7/10	9/10	8/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
January 15, 2024	Crimson Herring Studios	Crimson Herring Studios
Systems
PC

Sovereign Syndicate is a masterclass in character writing in video game form. I cannot understate how enthralling an experience it was to go through the game’s unique setting, perpetually hungry for even the tiniest scrap of detail as I piece together what little I already had. Additionally, the world-building of this game is exquisite, and its hand-painted visuals back it up perfectly. No character is an afterthought, and neither is the gameplay, which is a great combination of descriptive storytelling and CRPG-style decision-making.

Another Code: Recollection

Overall Score
84/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	9/10	8/10	10/10	7/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
January 19, 2024	Nintendo	Nintendo
Systems
Nintendo Switch

Another Code: Recollection is a two-game collection that skillfully remakes Another Code: Two Memories for the DS and Another Code: R: A Journey into Lost Memories for the Wii. The game weaves compelling mysteries that are continuously captivating and engaging, thanks to the likable protagonist, Ashley, the gorgeous character art style, and the all-new revamped puzzles. Despite its brilliance, the game does exhibit minor flaws, such as the somewhat dated environment visuals and occasional annoyance with third-person exploration because of the camera control.

Nevertheless, these minor shortcomings do not overshadow the overall beauty and enjoyment the collection has to offer. With hopes for a sequel in the future, it stands as a magnificent remake that revitalizes the series and provides an experience that both die-hard fans and newcomers can enjoy.

Slave Zero X

Overall Score
84/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
6/10	10/10	9/10	9/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 21, 2024	Poppy Works	Ziggurat
Systems
PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Slave Zero X is a sleeper hit game you don’t want to miss out on. It oozes style and charisma with its gorgeous neo-cyberpunk sprite aesthetic, killer music, and explosively addicting hack-and-slash action. While it lacks depth in its story, the combat is truly refined and truly makes you feel like a futuristic Ronin. Trust me, the game is as cool as it sounds and looks.

Lil' Guardsman

Overall Score
86/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	9/10	8/10	9/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
January 23, 2024	Hilltop Studios	Versus Evil
Systems
PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch

Playing Lil’ Guardsman makes you feel like you’re the main character of an absurd adult sitcom where you meet a cast of quirky characters on a daily basis. It’s a game where your decisions affect the grand scheme of things and alter certain parts of the story. The game is well-designed, as evidenced by the full and praiseworthy voice-acting, beautiful and vibrant art style, and fleshed out story. Each interaction is different from the last, which leads to a very fun gameplay loop of meeting unique characters.

Content Warning

Overall Score
86/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	8/10	8/10	9/10	10/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
April 1, 2024	Skog, Zorro, Wilnyl, Phillip, thePetHen	Landfall Publishing
Systems
PC (Steam)

Content Warning: The following game contains scenes of violence, blood, and quite possibly the greatest co-op indie horror experience since Lethal Company. Some viewers may find this game disturbingly captivating for its unique visuals, fun mechanics, and the countless hours of horrific influencer nonsense it will give you. Viewer discretion is advised—you won’t be able to put this game down.

Ender Magnolia

Overall Score
86/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	9/10	10/10	9/10	7/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
2024	Binary Haze Interactive	Binary Haze Interactive
Systems
PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S

Ender Magnolia, in early access, is a promising Metroidvania that has all the signs of releasing as one of the best games in its genre. It has a gripping exposition, a smooth and customizable combat system, stunning visuals, and fantastic music. Considering the developers’ background and the colorful reputation of its predecessor, it’s well worth the time and effort following this game as it inches closer to a full release.

Berserk Boy

Overall Score
86/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	9/10	8/10	9/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 6, 2024	BerserkBoy Games	BerserkBoy Games
Systems
PC, Switch

Berserk Boy succeeds in delivering the nostalgia bomb to platformer fans around the world while being a completely new title in the genre. Its high speed action-packed gameplay is complimented perfectly by its stylish retro visuals and high-energy soundtrack. This is a game that fans of the genre and those wanting to give the genre a try don’t want to miss.

Ex Astris

Overall Score
86/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	9/10	10/10	7/10	10/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 26, 2024	GRYPHLINE / GRYPH FRONTIER	GRYPHLINE / GRYPH FRONTIER
Systems
iOS, Android

Ex Astris marks GRYPHLINE's debut into the realm of premium 3D gaming, and let me tell you, it's a breath of fresh air after Arknights, which, while not terrible, didn't exactly stand out visually. This game, however, is a visual marvel, boasting impeccable style and presentation. What's more, the gameplay experience on mobile devices is incredibly smooth and intuitive, with combat and traversal feeling seamless and satisfying. And can we take a moment to appreciate that it's not a gacha game? Instead, it's a single-player RPG, offering a welcome departure from the usual grind. Sure, there are some hiccups in the story and characters, but the overall journey is nothing short of impressive and fulfilling. With a bit more time and future updates, this game could very well be the mobile game of the year.

Enshrouded

Overall Score
88/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	10/10	10/10	7/10	10/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
January 24, 2024	Keen Games GmbH	Keen Games GmbH
Systems
PC, Nintendo Switch

Enshrouded is a profoundly exciting game that blends the satisfying challenge of hardcore survival with the liberating creativity of an open-world sandbox. Not only are you encouraged to run about and explore ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING, but you are also rewarded for it. Plentiful loot, new recipes, and breathtaking landscapes await those daring enough to brave the Shroud. And for those who’d prefer to stay home and build a base, a fleshed-out voxel-based building system awaits you, complete with full customization and base-design mechanics. Although the game requires major hardware to run and could do with a few difficulty tweaks, I can confidently say that this is the perfect game for the discerning hardcore survivalist.

Ultros

Overall Score
88/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	8/10	10/10	9/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 13, 2024	Hadoque	El Huervo, Kepler Ghost
Systems
PC, PlayStation 5,PlayStation 4

Ultros entrances with a mysterious story with very rich world building, all presented with masterful visuals, engaging combat and exploration, and topped off with immersive music and ambience. Ultros has all fields perfectly flowing cohesively with one another that allows it to have all cylinders firing at all times, leaving lasting impressions upon its players no matter which aspect of the game they look at.

REVEIL

Overall Score
88/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
9/10	8/10	9/10	9/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 6, 2024	Pixelsplit	Daedalic Entertainment
Systems
PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S

REVEIL is a well-paced horror experience that can only be described as a rollercoaster of emotions—except every emotion is fear and this rollercoaster has no safety belts. I’m not happy to admit it, but this game got me quaking in my boots within half an hour of playing and it kept that momentum going until the end. If you’re looking for genuine scares, amazing set-dressing, and perhaps the trippiest circus experience since Cirque du Soleil, then get yourself a ticket and enter the Big Top in REVEIL.

Lightyear Frontier (Early Access)

Overall Score
88/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	9/10	9/10	9/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 20, 2024	FRAME BREAK, Amplifier Studios	FRAME BREAK, Amplifier Studios
Systems
PC (Steam), Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One

Lightyear Frontier is a wonderful and relaxing reminder that not all games have to be violent, scary, or suspenseful to be fun. This game thrives off of its simple exploration and farming mechanics, managing to keep me intrigued and excited for the next day without as much as a single enemy threatening my agricultural wonderland. Its wonderful mixture of technology and nature shines through every facet of its aesthetics and gameplay, one that creates a vibrant celebration of agriculture and natural preservation that I can’t seem to put down.

Raw Metal Review | A Stealthy Invite to Suplex City

Overall Score
88/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	7/10	9/10	9/10	10/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 20, 2024	Team Crucible	Team Crucible
Systems
PC

Raw Metal is a game that accomplishes something that I never thought was possible. It’s able to combine the meticulous and calculating gameplay of a stealth-focused game with the fast-pace, high-intensity gameplay of a beat-em up and it does so gracefully. There’s a ton of things to like in this game, and I recommend anyone and everyone to give it a try and put your fists to the test.

Pacific Drive

Overall Score
90/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
9/10	9/10	9/10	9/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 22, 2024	Ironwood Studios	Kepler Interactive
Systems
PC, PS5

Pacific Drive delivers an amazing narrative with a unique roguelite driving survival gameplay loop. Based on atmosphere alone, it can give other horror games a run for its money despite not being labeled as a horror game. With intuitive crafting systems, on-the-fly decision making, and your trusty station wagon, braving the Olympic Exclusion Zone is you against the supernatural forces of the world.

Sons of the Forest

Overall Score
90/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	10/10	9/10	8/10	10/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 22, 2024	Endnight Games Ltd	Newnight
Systems
PC

Sons of the Forest is what every sequel to a hit game should strive to be. Not only does it improve its predecessor’s formula in every conceivable way, but it also adds enough twists and turns to be its own game. You’ll be spending hundreds of hours toughing it out in the island’s wilderness, building literal castles out of logs, and fighting menacing monsters you can’t even begin to understand. I was a fan of The Forest in its imperfection; now I stand a beholder to its successor’s glory.

[button_linkSons of the Forest Review | Bigger, Badder, and Better Than Before!(https://game8.co/articles/reviews/sons-of-the-forest-review)]

Tekken 8

Overall Score
90/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	10/10	10/10	8/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
January 26, 2024	Bandai Namco Studios Inc.	Banda Namco Entertainment
Systems
PC(Steam), PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Tekken 8 has cemented itself as one of this generation’s best fighting games. The game is a visual marvel while being in its best form in the series in every possible way. It improves on everything the previous games had and offers new mechanics to learn and have fun with as well. It’s a must-play fighting game, and it’s time for everyone to play some good-a** Tekken.

Unicorn Overlord

Overall Score
90/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
7/10	9/10	10/10	9/10	10/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 8, 2024	ATLUS x Vanillaware.	SEGA
Systems
Nintendo Switch PS5, Xbox Series X|S

Unicorn Overlord has unquestionably lived up to its name and the anticipation surrounding its release. It’s definitely the undisputed Overlord in the tactics RPG genre right now and has the potential to rival giants like the Fire Emblem series and Final Fantasy Tactics. After a decade of anticipation, Vanillaware has delivered a polished masterpiece. While the game's fantasy storyline is quite generic, its captivating visuals, endearing characters, amazing side-quests, and meticulously crafted tactical RPG gameplay more than compensate for any perceived shortcomings.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Overall Score
92/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
9/10	10/10	9/10	9/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
January 26, 2024	Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio	SEGA
Systems
PC,PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a cinematic masterpiece and a strong Game of the Year contender. Despite its minor flaws and the greedy decision to put New Game Plus behind a paywall, the game is still an excellent addition to the franchise with its flawless turn-based combat, heaps of fun side-activities, exciting exploration, top-notch voice acting, and an emotional story told like no other. It's not just a game; it's a love letter to fans of the franchise while brilliantly setting the course for Like a Dragon's future.

LAST EPOCH

Overall Score
92/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
8/10	10/10	9/10	9/10	10/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 21, 2024	Eleventh Hour Games	Eleventh Hour Games
Systems
PC

For a dev team of only 90 people, Last Epoch surpassed all expectations and isn’t just a Diablo clone. It has everything you’d look for in a top-down ARPG—top-notch visuals, strong and complex gameplay, and a decent and out-of-the-box story. In my opinion, it’s better than Diablo 4 but only for half the price.

Reverse Collapse: Code Name Bakery

Overall Score
92/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
10/10	9/10	9/10	9/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 22, 2024	Shanghai Sunborn Network Technology Co., Ltd.	XD
Systems
PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch

Reverse Collapse: Code Name Bakery is an excellent, narrative-driven Tactical RPG that presents the perfect amount of gameplay features within a story-rich world. Its use of time-tested gameplay mechanics makes playing it intuitive and easily accessible. With a heavy focus on character development and worldbuilding, peppered with ample moments of gripping twists and gameplay-induced suspense, it’s easy to lose your sense of time trying to find out what happens next.

Solium Infernum

Overall Score
92/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
10/10	9/10	10/10	8/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
January 26, 2024	League of Geeks	League of Geeks
Systems
PC

Solium Infernum is one Hell of a fun time for a game built around backstabbing, boasting, and general belligerence. The game’s features and mechanics flow like the Acheron and its infernal art direction goes harder than the walls of Dis. Despite having a literal encyclopaedia’s worth of things to learn before you can ascend to the throne, nothing ever feels overwhelming and there’s always a way to win even if you’re on the back foot. I must say, Hell’s never looked so enticing.

Dragon's Dogma 2

Overall Score
96/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
10/10	10/10	10/10	10/10	8/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
March 22, 2024	CAPCOM Co., Ltd.	CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
Systems
PC, PS5, Xbox Series X

Dragon’s Dogma 2 is this year’s ultimate fantasy RPG experience and a strong contender for Game-of-the-Year (GOTY). With a massive open world focused on experience-driven gameplay, it’s a game that’s not only interesting in exploring but also focuses on unique interactions from both the enemies and the NPCs. It’s the best medieval fantasy action RPG experience to date, and after waiting for more than a decade, It’s my personal pick for this year’s GOTY and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Overall Score
96/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
9/10	9/10	9/10	10/10	10/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 29, 2024	Square Enix	Square Enix
Systems
PS5

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is the apex, the summit, the absolute peak of what Final Fantasy can be. The story, although partly retelling, also brings new surprising and mysterious thrilling elements that will have anyone hooked till the end. The gameplay is engaging and strategic still, specially with the addition of new characters and Synergy Attacks. The visuals are as gorgeous as ever, with environments being a feast for the eyes from any angle you look. The music is at an all-time high with the classic renditions of the old tracks brought to the modern age. Rebirth is packed with so much excellence, love, care, and playable content that it seems absolutely impossible that a game this scale could have been made–but here we are.

Persona 3 Reload

Overall Score
96/100
Story	Gameplay	Visuals	Audio	Value for Money
9/10	10/10	10/10	10/10	9/10

Release Date	Developer	Publisher
February 2, 2024	Atlus	SEGA
Systems
PS4, PS5, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S

Persona 3 Reload is a captivating reimagination of the beloved 2006 game. It brings the PS2 game into the modern era with stunning visual upgrades, quality-of-life improvements, and additional story and character elements. This not only enhances the overall narrative but also sets a new standard for the series. The only downside? You'll find yourself wishing the Dark Hour was a real thing, just to snag an extra hour savoring this absolute gem. No doubt, it's a top contender for Game of the Year, effortlessly unleashing 'Mass Destruction' against its competitors with pure brilliance.