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Plenty of games come out each year, but there’s always one that just stands on top. The Game Awards in 2023 saw exceptional contenders, praising games such as “Alan Wake 2,” “Baldur’s Gate 3,” and “Cyberpunk 2077.” This year is no exception, and all eyes are on the Game of the Year 2024. There are mixed reactions, but it makes the discussion and anticipation all the more exciting.
Who Are the Game of the Year Nominees This Year?
There are six Game of the Year 2024 nominees. A jury of more than global media and influencer outlets selects nominees. While they are also responsible for choosing which title gets the trophy, public fan votes account for 10% of the final decision. The chosen ones are:
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree and its nomination did spark some reactions among the gaming communities as it is an expansion pack. The base game is well-loved for various reasons, from its comprehensive character customization options to superb worldbuilding. It has won the Game of the Year award in the past and even racked up multiple trophies outside the Game Awards in the few years it’s been out.
If the Elden Ring expansion gets a nomination, it could have also warranted a nod to Baldur’s Gate 3 Patch 7 and other exceptional DLCs. There could be a possibility of diversifying and creating separate award categories within the Game Awards. Nevertheless, there is a disclaimer about how DLCs are qualified for a nomination if the jury deems it deserving enough. Thus, it does qualify as part of the Game of the Year.
Best Games of 2024
Awards and technicalities aside, the gaming community got several treats this year. If Modded had its way, this is what the 2024 Game of the Year lineup would look like:
1. Astro Bot
Astro Bot is easily worthy of Game of the Year. The premise of searching for your lost crew is straightforward and any player can tell the love that went into its design and development. It has had $22.5 million units sold since the PS5 console’s launch, and upcoming expansions will likely make sales skyrocket even more.
2. Black Myth: Wukong
Black Myth: Wukong has soared to incredible heights since its release. The game is centered around ancient Chinese mythology and blends physical combat and magic spells for dynamic gameplay. Meet adversaries on the Journey to the West and learn more about the world and yourself.
3. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth was one of the most anticipated games last year, especially after the success of Final Fantasy 6. Players depart from Midgar’s confines and dive into Gaia landscapes. Discover adventure and love in the fresh narrative while enjoying the stunning visuals and graphics from Square Enix.
4. Metaphor: Refantazio
Metaphor: Refantazio is also a fantastic game developed by some of the amazing people behind the Persona franchise. It follows the Royal Tournament, where players engage in a turn-based combat system mixed with real-time action. You can customize your party through Archetype powers to personalize your adventure.
5. Balatro
Balatro is one of those games you think you won’t get into, but you suddenly get hooked for a couple of weeks. It’s also a turn-based game, but it blends the mechanics of poker and roguelike gameplay. If you’re a fiend for strategy, gambling and a sprinkle of luck, you will enjoy playing this with your friends.
6. Helldivers 2
Helldivers 2 simply has to be one of the best 2024 PS5 games, and it’s almost surprising how the Game Awards forgot to include it for Game of the Year. Become part of the Helldivers squad again and go on strategic missions to accomplish galactical freedom. From lifesaving armor to explosive firepower, customize your arsenal and prepare for battle.
7. Silent Hill 2
Silent Hill 2 was also quite a showstopper in 2024. It was originally released in 2001 before it got the remake this year, which took off. The narrative was already splendid, but the intense psychological horrors became even more petrifying with the new visuals. Younger gamers who have never played the first variant must be scared out of their wits.
8. Space Marine 2
The co-op shooter game Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 also received much acclaim from the gaming community. In this world, you play to destroy the relentless Tyranid swarms with firepower. You can play with up to two friends and go through the missions. If you’re into gory and fast-paced playthroughs, this is the one for you.
9. Tekken 8
There was so much anticipation for Tekken 8 and its release as well. After all, the saga of the Mishima and Kazama bloodlines saw a little bit of a cliffhanger in Tekken 7. Luckily, this new release did it all justice by continuing the story grippingly and featuring new characters with unique fighting styles.
Special Mentions
There are still many other games worthy of awards and attention. Here are several other titles that you should consider playing before the year ends:
- Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree: Expansion or not, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree offers fantastic gameplay that builds on the mysteries of the Land of Shadow. The only caveat is having to get the base game before the DLC could work, but both are worth the experience.
- Palworld: Palworld is another fun game that seemingly takes inspiration from the world of Pokemon. Your goal is to tame and care for the cute monsters while going through the open world, managing your resources and serving your society.
- Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth: Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is perfect for people who love turn-based RPG battles. There are many job classes to explore, and the story and gameplay are fast-paced. The learning curve of playing it makes it all the fresher and more exciting.
- Stellar Blade: If you want a riveting hack-and-slash video game, Stellar Blade is your best bet. You play as Eve, who is on an adventure to save humanity from war. There’s plenty of action against the monsters, and the visuals are simply *chef’s kiss.*
What’s Your Game of the Year?
It will be interesting to see which title will bag Game of the Year 2024. Next year is bound to be exciting too, especially with upcoming Xbox games in 2025 like Little Nightmares III and Subnautica 2. Share who your winners are and what games you’re looking forward to the most!
