Ten Underrated Video Games of 2024: Hidden Gems You Might Have Missed
2024 saw a flurry of video game releases, but some truly exceptional titles flew under the radar. This article highlights ten games deserving of more recognition, offering a diverse range of genres and experiences you might have overlooked.
Table of Contents
- Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
- Last Epoch
- Open Roads
- Pacific Drive
- Rise of the Ronin
- Cannibal Abduction
- Still Wakes the Deep
- Indika
- Crow Country
- Nobody Wants to Die
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
Image: bolumsonucanavari.com
- Release Date: September 9, 2024
- Developer: Saber St. Petersburg
- Download: Steam
This action game sets a new standard for visceral combat. As Captain Titus, you unleash the Ultramarines' arsenal against relentless Tyranids. The blend of cinematic battles, a grim future setting, and cooperative gameplay creates an unforgettable experience. The graphics bring the Warhammer universe to life.
Why Underrated: Despite its quality, Space Marine 2 surprisingly missed a "Game of the Year" nomination, sparking fan outrage. Its dynamic gameplay, stunning visuals, and engaging co-op mode deserve wider appreciation, extending beyond the Warhammer fanbase.
Last Epoch
Image: store.steampowered.com
- Release Date: February 21, 2024
- Developer: Eleventh Hour Games
- Download: Steam
A unique action-RPG featuring time travel and deep character progression. Explore Eterra, traversing different epochs and altering history. Five base classes, numerous subclasses, the Monolith of Fate system, and extensive crafting options provide endless replayability.
Why Underrated: Last Epoch initially gained traction but faded quickly. Its innovative timeline system, balanced gameplay, and accessible tutorials make it a hidden gem for action-RPG enthusiasts seeking something fresh.
Open Roads
Image: backloggd.com
- Release Date: March 28, 2024
- Developer: Open Roads Team
- Download: Steam
A poignant narrative focusing on a mother and daughter's journey to uncover family secrets. The game emphasizes dialogue, emotional depth, and exploration. Its unique art style—combining hand-drawn characters with 3D environments—is captivating. This is less an adventure and more an exploration of relationships and personal truths.
Why Underrated: The game's intimate nature and lack of action may have limited its appeal. However, Open Roads exemplifies the artistic potential of video games, delivering a deeply moving narrative experience.
Pacific Drive
Image: store.playstation.com
- Release Date: February 22, 2024
- Developer: Ironwood Studios
- Download: Steam
An unconventional survival simulator where your car is your only ally. Explore a forbidden zone filled with anomalies and dangers, repairing your vehicle and navigating treacherous terrain. The unique atmosphere and challenging gameplay are unforgettable.
Why Underrated: While critically acclaimed, Pacific Drive faced criticism regarding controls, interface, and repetitive elements. Despite these flaws, its originality and immersive atmosphere make it worthwhile for those who appreciate unconventional game design.
Rise of the Ronin
Image: deskyou.de
- Release Date: March 22, 2024
- Developer: Team Ninja
- Download: PlayStation
A grand action-RPG set in 19th-century Japan, during a period of immense change. Play as a ronin navigating the conflict between tradition and progress. The game combines samurai combat, open-world exploration, and a compelling narrative filled with moral dilemmas.
Why Underrated: Rise of the Ronin may have been overshadowed by other major releases. However, it offers a unique historical setting and depth beyond typical samurai games, exploring complex themes and providing meaningful player choice.
Cannibal Abduction
Image: nintendo.com
- Release Date: January 13, 2023
- Developer: Selewi, Tomás Esconjaureguy
- Download: Steam
A tense survival horror game returning to the genre's roots. Evade a cannibal family in a secluded cabin, scavenging for resources and solving puzzles. The oppressive atmosphere and constant threat create a truly challenging experience.
Why Underrated: Cannibal Abduction may have been lost amidst larger horror releases. Its low-fi graphics, while contributing to its unique charm, may have alienated some players. However, it's a fantastic homage to classic survival horror.
Still Wakes the Deep
Image: pixelrz.com
- Release Date: June 18, 2024
- Developer: The Chinese Room
- Download: Steam
An atmospheric horror game set on a North Sea oil platform. Survive an unexplained horror while attempting to escape. The tense atmosphere, disturbing soundscape, and detailed environment create an immersive and chilling experience.
Why Underrated: Still Wakes the Deep's modest marketing and niche genre may have contributed to its lack of recognition. However, it's a masterclass in atmospheric horror, reminiscent of SOMA and Amnesia, but with a unique setting and fresh survival elements.
Indika
Image: store.epicgames.com
- Release Date: May 2, 2024
- Developer: Odd-Meter
- Download: Steam
A provocative game exploring religion, philosophy, and the search for truth through abstract gameplay. Navigate dark spaces, interacting with cryptic clues. Despite its unconventional mechanics, the game offers a serene atmosphere and a thought-provoking narrative.
Why Underrated: Indika, despite award nominations, is often criticized for its lack of traditional gameplay and lengthy cutscenes. However, its unique visual style and philosophical depth make it a compelling experience for those who appreciate artistic and contemplative games.
Crow Country
Image: store.steampowered.com
- Release Date: May 9, 2024
- Developer: SFB Games
- Download: Steam
A remake of a cult-classic survival horror game, reminiscent of Resident Evil and Silent Hill. Explore an abandoned amusement park, solving puzzles and evading monsters. The retro-inspired visuals and gripping storyline create a memorable horror experience.
Why Underrated: Crow Country, despite positive reviews, was overshadowed by larger releases. While some criticized its simple combat and puzzles, its detailed atmosphere and unique plot make it a must-play for classic horror fans.
Nobody Wants to Die
Image: youtube.com
- Release Date: July 17, 2024
- Developer: Critical Hit Games
- Download: Steam
A dystopian detective game set in a futuristic, art-deco New York where death has been conquered. Investigate murders in a world grappling with immortality and transhumanism. The game combines detective elements, sci-fi themes, and photorealistic graphics.
Why Underrated: Nobody Wants to Die's ambitious blend of genres and philosophical themes may have hindered its widespread appeal. Despite its visual excellence, it may have been overshadowed by larger, more traditional games.
2024 offered a wealth of diverse and ambitious games. These ten titles, while not all major commercial successes, offer unique and memorable experiences deserving of a second look. Remember, sometimes the smaller gems leave the most lasting impression.
