As the year draws to a close, 2024 stands out as another remarkable chapter in gaming history. Across platforms like Nintendo, Xbox, PlayStation, and PC, as well as mobile devices, countless hours were spent exploring virtual worlds and tackling thrilling challenges. Of the 48 games I played this year, a select few rose above the rest, leaving a lasting impact. Here’s a deeper dive into my top five games of 2024, each offering its own unique charm and unforgettable moments.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Nostalgia played a major role in 2024, and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth captured it perfectly. As a sequel to Remake, it took the beloved 1997 classic and expanded on it in exciting and unpredictable ways. The game’s stunning visuals and exciting combat offered a seamless blend of familiarity and innovation, while its world was vast, immersive, and breathtaking to explore.
For fans of the original, there were countless moments where a line of dialogue, a piece of music, or a story beat triggered a rush of memories. It felt like reconnecting with old friends while embarking on a new adventure. Rebirth doesn’t just retell the Final Fantasy VII story; it reinvents it in a way that honors the past while paving its own path. Here’s hoping Square Enix delivers an equally captivating conclusion to this trilogy in the years to come.
Helldivers 2
Helldivers 2 single-handedly reignited my interest in online multiplayer games. Despite a rocky launch plagued with server issues and progress losses, the game’s sheer fun kept me coming back. The chaotic, action-packed gameplay—whether with friends or strangers—created moments of triumph and hilarity in equal measure.
From the incredible visuals to the over-the-top music and thrilling battles, every mission felt like a scene straight out of a blockbuster action movie. The game’s satirical tone added to the experience, making every shout of “For Democracy!” during a fight against giant alien bugs or robots even more entertaining. It’s rare to find a multiplayer game that consistently delivers joy, but Helldivers 2 nailed it.
Astro Bot
Astro Bot continues to cement itself as one of Sony’s most endearing mascots, and this year’s installment was a love letter to PlayStation fans. Packed with nostalgic references to Sony’s history, the game rewarded long-time players with countless nods to the past. Yet, even for newcomers, the polished platforming, stunning visuals, and innovative use of the DualSense controller made it a standout experience.
Whether it was gliding through vibrant worlds or rescuing tiny robots, Astro Bot excelled at creating a fun, lighthearted adventure. It didn’t overstay its welcome, leaving players satisfied yet eager for more. If Sony’s next console comes with another Astro Bot adventure, I’ll be first in line.
Metaphor: ReFantazio
From the creators of Persona comes Metaphor: ReFantazio, a game that masterfully redefines what a JRPG can be. By trading the urban setting of Persona for a sprawling fantasy world, the game tackled ambitious themes of race, class, and societal divides. Its story was expansive, spanning an entire continent, while the character relationships added depth and personal stakes to the journey.
The combat system was the most enjoyable it has ever been in an Atlus game, and the game’s stylish presentation carried the same flair that made Persona 5 so iconic. Clocking in at nearly 80 hours, the experience was long but never felt like a chore. Metaphor proves that Atlus is capable of evolving its formula while staying true to its roots.
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (Remake)
This year, my daughter and I bonded over the remake of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, and it was an absolute delight. The game’s clever paper-based mechanics, engaging turn-based combat, and charming story captured our attention from start to finish. It’s a testament to Nintendo’s ability to create family-friendly games that resonate with players of all ages.
As someone who grew up with Nintendo, I found a renewed appreciation for their timeless approach to gaming. Sharing this adventure with my daughter made it even more special, proving that great games can bridge generations. The remake was a perfect opportunity to experience a classic I’d missed before, and I’m glad I didn’t let it slip by again.
Final Thoughts
Looking back, 2024 was a year filled with exceptional gaming experiences. These top five titles each brought something unique to the table—whether it was the thrill of nostalgia, the joy of co-op chaos, or the satisfaction of exploring a beautifully crafted story. Gaming continues to be a medium that offers moments of connection, reflection, and pure fun. As we head into 2025, I can’t wait to see what adventures lie ahead.
