2024 has turned out to be an exceptional year for video games; which is a huge surprised because going into the year nobody would have predicted that. From epic RPGs to intense fighting games, there’s something for every type of gamer. The top 10 titles, as judged by Metacritic scores, represent the best that the gaming world has to offer. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, strategic challenges, or heartwarming narratives, these games are sure to leave a lasting impression.
This year has already seen some amazing releases that are receiving high praise from players and critics alike. The top 10 highest-rated games of 2024 so far include big titles like Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, Tekken 8, and The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered. These games offer something for everyone. From role-playing adventures to fighting games and remasters of classics, 2024’s top games span many genres. Players can look forward to stunning graphics, deep stories, and fun gameplay in these highly-rated titles.
As the year goes on, more great games will likely join this list. But for now, these 10 games represent the best that 2024 has to offer so far. Gamers have a lot to look forward to as they check out these top-rated new releases.
Best Games (2024)
| Rank | Game Title | Genre | Platform(s) | Metacritic Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Final Fantasy VII Rebirth | RPG | PS5 | 92 |
| 2 | Balatro | Puzzle | PC | 90 |
| 3 | Tekken 8 | Fighting | PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S | 90 |
| 4 | The Last of Us Part II Remastered | Action-Adventure | PS5 | 90 |
| 5 | Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth | RPG | PS5, Xbox Series X/S | 89 |
| 6 | Persona 3 Reload | RPG | PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S | 88 |
| 7 | Horizon Forbidden West (PC) | Action-Adventure | PC | 88 |
| 8 | Solium Infernum | Strategy | PC | 88 |
| 9 | TimeMelters | Action RPG | PC | 88 |
| 10 | Unicorn Overlord | Strategy | PS5 | 87 |
In-Depth Look At The Games
1. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
- Genre: RPG
- Platform: PS5
- Metacritic Score: 92
Details: The highly-anticipated sequel to the acclaimed Final Fantasy VII Remake, Rebirth continues Cloud and his companions’ journey beyond Midgar. It features an expanded open world, revamped combat system, and a captivating storyline that builds upon the original’s legacy.
Pros:
- Breathtaking visuals and immersive world-building
- Engaging and emotionally resonant story
- Dynamic and strategic combat system
- Vast and rewarding exploration
Cons:
- Long loading times
- Some pacing issues in the narrative
Ratings:
- Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Gameplay: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Graphics: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Replayability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Balatro
- Genre: Puzzle
- Platform: PC
- Metacritic Score: 90
Details: A unique roguelike deck-building game that blends poker mechanics with strategic decision-making. Players collect cards, build hands, and compete against opponents in a series of challenging encounters.
Pros:
- Addictive and engaging gameplay loop
- Deep and rewarding strategic depth
- Charming visuals and soundtrack
- High replayability with various unlockables
Cons:
- Can be punishingly difficult at times
- Steep learning curve for those unfamiliar with poker
Ratings:
- Story: ⭐⭐⭐
- Gameplay: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Graphics: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Replayability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Tekken 8
- Genre: Fighting
- Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
- Metacritic Score: 90
Details: The latest installment in the iconic fighting game franchise, Tekken 8 delivers stunning visuals, refined mechanics, and an expanded roster of iconic characters. It offers a thrilling competitive experience for both casual and hardcore fighting game fans.
Pros:
- Visually impressive with smooth animations
- Tight and responsive combat system
- Diverse and well-balanced roster
- Robust online features and community
Cons:
- Steep learning curve for newcomers
- Some characters might feel overpowered
Ratings:
- Story: ⭐⭐⭐
- Gameplay: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Graphics: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Replayability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. The Last of Us Part II Remastered
- Genre: Action-Adventure
- Platform: PS5
- Metacritic Score: 90
Details: A remastered version of the critically acclaimed 2020 game, The Last of Us Part II delivers a powerful and emotionally charged narrative set in a post-apocalyptic world. Players embark on a journey of revenge and survival, exploring beautifully crafted environments and engaging in intense combat encounters.
Pros:
- Gripping and thought-provoking story
- Stellar performances and immersive world-building
- Visceral and impactful combat
- Stunning graphics and visual enhancements
Cons:
- Controversial narrative choices
- Can be emotionally draining
Ratings:
- Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Gameplay: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Graphics: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Replayability: ⭐⭐⭐
5. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
- Genre: RPG
- Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X/S
- Metacritic Score: 89
Details: The latest entry in the beloved Yakuza series, Infinite Wealth takes players on a wild adventure with Ichiban Kasuga. Featuring a mix of action-packed combat, quirky side activities, and heartwarming character interactions, this game offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Pros:
- Engaging and humorous storyline
- Diverse and entertaining cast of characters
- Addictive side content and mini-games
- Smooth transition to turn-based combat
Cons:
- Some pacing issues in the narrative
- Can feel overwhelming with its vast amount of content
Ratings:
- Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Gameplay: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Graphics: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Replayability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
6. Persona 3 Reload
- Genre: RPG
- Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
- Metacritic Score: 88
Details: A faithful remake of the beloved PlayStation 2 classic, Persona 3 Reload reimagines the iconic story with modern visuals and gameplay enhancements. Players navigate the complexities of high school life while battling Shadows in the mysterious Dark Hour.
Pros:
- Enhanced visuals and improved performance
- Streamlined gameplay mechanics
- Memorable characters and compelling narrative
- Upgraded soundtrack and voice acting
Cons:
- Some missing content from the original and FES versions
- Social links can feel less impactful
Ratings:
- Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Gameplay: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Graphics: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Replayability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
7. Horizon Forbidden West (PC)
- Genre: Action-Adventure
- Platform: PC
- Metacritic Score: 88
Details: The PC port of the acclaimed PlayStation exclusive, Horizon Forbidden West brings Aloy’s epic journey to a wider audience. With stunning visuals, immersive open-world exploration, and thrilling combat against robotic beasts, this game is a must-play for adventure enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Gorgeous graphics and detailed environments
- Engaging story and well-developed characters
- Fluid and satisfying combat mechanics
- Expansive open world filled with secrets and challenges
Cons:
- Some performance issues on lower-end PCs
- Long loading times
Ratings:
- Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Gameplay: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Graphics: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Replayability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
8. Solium Infernum
- Genre: Strategy
- Platform: PC
- Metacritic Score: 88
Details: A deep and complex turn-based strategy game set in the infernal realms. Players assume the role of a powerful archfiend vying for control of Hell. With intricate mechanics, strategic depth, and a focus on player interaction, Solium Infernum offers a challenging and rewarding experience.
Pros:
- Intricate and engaging strategic gameplay
- Rich lore and immersive atmosphere
- High replayability with various strategies and factions
- Focus on player interaction and diplomacy
Cons:
- Steep learning curve and complex mechanics
- Slow-paced gameplay
Ratings:
- Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Gameplay: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Graphics: ⭐⭐⭐
- Replayability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
9. TimeMelters
- Genre: Action RPG
- Platform: PC
- Metacritic Score: 88
Details: A unique action RPG that allows players to manipulate time to their advantage. With its innovative time-control mechanics, fast-paced combat, and stylish visuals, TimeMelters offers a fresh and exciting experience.
Pros:
- Innovative and engaging time-control mechanics
- Fluid and satisfying combat system
- Visually impressive with a unique art style
- Challenging and rewarding gameplay
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for newcomers
- Some repetitive level design
Ratings:
- Story: ⭐⭐⭐
- Gameplay: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Graphics: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Replayability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
10. Unicorn Overlord
- Genre: Strategy
- Platform: PS5
- Metacritic Score: 87
Details: A whimsical and charming real-time strategy game where players build and manage a kingdom of unicorns. With its colorful visuals, lighthearted humor, and accessible gameplay, Unicorn Overlord is a delightful experience for strategy fans of all ages.
Pros:
- Adorable visuals and whimsical setting
- Accessible and engaging gameplay
- Variety of unicorn units and abilities
- Lighthearted and humorous tone
Cons:
- Can become repetitive after extended play
- Lacks depth compared to other strategy games
Ratings:
- Story: ⭐⭐⭐
- Gameplay: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Graphics: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Replayability: ⭐⭐⭐
Key Takeaways
- 2024’s top-rated games span many genres from RPGs to fighting games
- Big franchises like Final Fantasy and Tekken feature in the current top 10 list
- The year’s best games offer improved graphics and gameplay over previous entries
Game Overview and Ratings
2024 has brought us many great games. Top titles have scored well with critics and players alike. New releases span different genres and platforms.
Critical Acclaim and Review Scores
The best games of 2024 have earned high marks from reviewers. Many titles have received scores of 9 or above on major gaming sites. Critics praise these games for their gameplay, graphics, and storytelling.
Some standout titles include:
- Game A: 95/100
- Game B: 93/100
- Game C: 91/100
These scores come from aggregated reviews across multiple outlets. Players seem to agree with critics, giving these games positive user ratings too.
Standout Genres and Platforms
2024 has seen strong releases across various game types. RPGs and roguelikes have been big hits this year. Action-adventure games are also doing well.
Popular platforms for top games include:
- PS5
- PC
- Xbox Series X|S
- Nintendo Switch
Many top-rated titles are available on multiple systems. This gives more players a chance to enjoy them. Some games are exclusive to one platform, which can boost console sales.
Notable Developers and Publishers
Several game makers have put out highly rated titles in 2024. Both big studios and indie developers have found success.
Key players include:
- Studio X: Known for their innovative RPGs
- Developer Y: Creators of popular action games
- Publisher Z: Backing several top-rated titles
These companies have shown skill in making games that critics and players love. Their success in 2024 cements their place as industry leaders.
Gameplay and Story Elements
The highest-rated games of 2024 stand out with fresh gameplay ideas and gripping stories. They push boundaries in graphics and sound too.
Innovative Gameplay Ideas
Top games this year bring new twists to familiar genres. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth mixes turn-based fights with real-time action. Players can switch between styles mid-battle. This keeps combat exciting and unpredictable.
Persona 3: Reload adds time management to its role-playing core. Players must balance school life with dungeon crawling. Every choice matters. This creates a deep and rewarding experience.
Some games focus on unique single-player challenges. Lorelei and the Laser Eyes is a puzzle game with a twist. It uses optical illusions to test players’ minds in new ways.
Narrative and Writing Excellence
Strong writing sets many top games apart this year. Stories are more complex and character-driven than ever.
Dialogue feels natural and helps build rich game worlds. Plot twists keep players guessing until the end. Many games explore deep themes that stick with players long after the credits roll.
Some games let players shape the story through their choices. This creates a more personal and engaging narrative. Multiple endings encourage replay to see all possible outcomes.
Visuals and Sound Design
Graphics in 2024’s best games push hardware to its limits. Realistic lighting and textures make game worlds feel alive. Character models show subtle emotions, adding depth to cutscenes and gameplay.
Particle effects dazzle during intense action scenes. Weather systems create mood and affect gameplay. Some games use stylized art to stand out from the crowd.
Sound design is equally impressive. 3D audio puts players in the middle of the action. Voice acting brings characters to life with nuanced performances. Music enhances emotional moments and gets players’ hearts racing during boss battles.
Distinctive Game Features and Experiences
The top games of 2024 bring fresh ideas to players. They offer new ways to play and exciting worlds to explore.
Unique Mechanics and Game Worlds
Palworld mixes monster catching with survival gameplay. Players tame cute creatures and use them to build bases. The game adds a twist to the usual monster-catching formula.
Animal Well creates a strange underground maze. Players must solve puzzles to move forward. The game uses pixel art to make a spooky world.
Black Myth: Wukong brings Chinese legends to life. It lets players become the Monkey King and fight with magic. The game shows off stunning visuals and fast combat.
Challenges and Enemy Encounters
Helldivers 2 puts players against swarms of bugs and robots. Teams must work together to survive. The game is hard but fun with friends.
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree adds new bosses to fight. Players face tough enemies in a dark fantasy world. The game keeps the challenge high for skilled players.
Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon offers puzzle-solving and combat. Players control two characters at once. This makes for tricky battles and brain-teasing puzzles.
Consumer Insight and Engagement
Game ratings tell only part of the story. Player feedback and community trends shape how games are seen and played in 2024.
Player Reception and Community Feedback
Many top-rated games in 2024 got high scores from critics and players alike. Indies and big titles both made waves. Some games sparked debates about difficulty and design choices.
Players shared thoughts on social media and forums. They posted reviews on game stores. Many praised innovative gameplay and graphics. Some pointed out bugs or balance issues.
Review scores don’t always match player opinions. A few highly-rated games faced backlash over certain features. Others with mixed reviews found dedicated fan bases.
Trending Games and Community Favorites
Some games became viral hits through word-of-mouth and streaming. Multiplayer titles saw spikes in player counts. Single-player RPGs got buzz for their stories and worlds.
Indie games gained traction alongside AAA releases. Puzzle games and unique concepts found niche audiences. Remakes of classic games stirred nostalgia and drew in new fans.
Community events and updates kept older games relevant. Expansions for live service games brought back lapsed players. Players shared tips, mods, and fan art for their favorite titles.
Popular genres in 2024 included:
- Action RPGs
- Card-based roguelikes
- Narrative adventures
- Cooperative shooters
Games like Dragon’s Dogma 2 and Persona 3 Reload sparked discussions about JRPGs and remakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many gamers want to know about the top-rated games across different platforms in 2024. These questions cover the best titles for PS5, PC, Xbox, mobile, and Android devices. We’ll also look at games with high user reviews.
What are the current top-rated video games for PS5 in 2024?
PS5 has seen some great games this year. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a standout title. It offers a fresh take on the action RPG genre. Another hit is Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. This game builds on the beloved franchise with stunning graphics and gameplay.
Which PC games have received the highest ratings in 2024?
PC gamers have enjoyed several top-rated titles. Balatro has been a surprise hit. This unique card game blends poker with roguelike elements. Helldivers 2 is another popular choice. It offers exciting co-op action in a sci-fi setting.
What are the best performing games on Xbox this year?
Xbox players have had access to some great games in 2024. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown has received high praise. It brings back the classic platforming series with modern twists. Another top pick is Palworld. This game mixes creature collection with survival elements.
Can you list the most critically acclaimed mobile games released in 2024?
Mobile gaming continues to grow with new hits. Honkai: Star Rail has gained a large following. It offers a deep story and turn-based combat. Another standout is Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story. This collection showcases classic games from a renowned developer.
Which video games released this year have the best user reviews?
User reviews often highlight games that resonate with players. Balatro has received glowing feedback from users. Its simple yet addictive gameplay has won over many fans. Another highly-rated game is Persona 3 Reload. Players praise its updated visuals and refined gameplay.
What are the standout video game titles on Android platforms in 2024?
Android users have seen some excellent games this year. Vampire Survivors has been a big hit. Its simple but engaging gameplay loop keeps players coming back. Another popular title is Turnip Boy Robs a Bank. This quirky adventure game offers humor and fun puzzles.
