The 10 most underrated games of 2024 that you might have missed

Ten Underrated Video Games of 2024 That Deserve More Recognition

2024 saw a flurry of video game releases, but some gems were overshadowed. This article highlights ten titles that deserve more attention, offering a diverse range of genres and experiences you might have missed.

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 title showcases modern action at its finest. As Captain Titus, players engage in intense battles against Tyranids, utilizing the Ultramarines' arsenal. Cinematic combat, a grim future setting, and cooperative gameplay create an immersive experience. Stunning 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, visuals, co-op, and unique setting should have garnered broader appeal beyond Warhammer fans.

Last Epoch

Image: store.steampowered.com

• Release Date: February 21, 2024
• Developer: Eleventh Hour Games
• Download: Steam

This action-RPG features time travel and a deep character development system. Players explore Eterra, battling across different epochs and altering history. Five base classes, numerous subclasses, the Monolith of Fate system, and extensive crafting options provide engaging and varied gameplay.

Why Underrated: Last Epoch, while initially noticed, was quickly forgotten. Its unique take on the ARPG genre – a dynamic timeline, balanced gameplay, and accessible tutorials – makes it a hidden gem.

Open Roads

Image: backloggd.com

• Release Date: March 28, 2024
• Developer: Open Roads Team
• Download: Steam

Open Roads tells a poignant story of a mother and daughter uncovering family secrets. The game focuses on dialogue, emotional scenes, and exploration. Its unique visual style, blending drawn characters with 3D environments, is memorable. It's a deep dive into relationships and the search for truth.

Why Underrated: The game's intimate nature and lack of action may have limited its appeal. However, it exemplifies the artistic potential of video games, offering a moving narrative experience.

Pacific Drive

Image: store.playstation.com

• Release Date: February 22, 2024
• Developer: Ironwood Studios
• Download: Steam

Pacific Drive is a unique survival simulator where a player's car is their only ally. Players explore a forbidden zone filled with anomalies and dangers, repairing their vehicle and avoiding traps. The game's atmosphere and unconventional concept are unforgettable.

Why Underrated: While critically acclaimed, Pacific Drive faced criticism regarding controls, interface, and repetitive gameplay. Despite its flaws, its originality and atmosphere make it worthwhile for those who appreciate unconventional titles.

Rise of the Ronin

Image: deskyou.de

• Release Date: March 22, 2024
• Developer: Team Ninja
• Download: PlayStation

This grand action-RPG transports players to 19th-century Japan. As a ronin, players navigate conflict between tradition and progress. The game blends samurai combat, open-world exploration, and a compelling narrative with difficult choices. The visual style captures the spirit of the era.

Why Underrated: Rise of the Ronin might have been overshadowed by other major releases. While seemingly another samurai game, its unique atmosphere and historical depth offer a richer experience than many competitors.

Cannibal Abduction

Image: nintendo.com

• Release Date: January 13, 2023
• Developer: Selewi, Tomás Esconjaureguy
• Download: Steam

This tense survival horror returns to the genre's roots. Players, trapped in a cabin, must survive a cannibal family. The oppressive atmosphere, limited resources, and constant danger create a challenging experience.

Why Underrated: Cannibal Abduction may have been lost amidst larger horror releases. Its low-fi graphics, while contributing to its unique charm, might deter some players. However, it's a homage to classic survival horror.

Still Wakes the Deep

Image: pixelrz.com

• Release Date: June 18, 2024
• Developer: The Chinese Room
• Download: Steam

This atmospheric horror is set on a North Sea oil platform. Players must survive an unexplained horror. The tense atmosphere, sound design, and detailed setting create an immersive and chilling experience.

Why Underrated: Still Wakes the Deep's modest marketing and niche genre might have limited its reach. 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

Indika is a provocative game exploring religion, philosophy, and the search for truth through abstract gameplay. Players navigate dark spaces, interacting with clues in a serene yet surreal atmosphere.

Why Underrated: Despite award nominations, Indika's lack of traditional gameplay mechanics and lengthy cutscenes alienated some players. However, its visual style and philosophical depth make it appealing to those who appreciate art games.

Crow Country

Image: store.steampowered.com

• Release Date: May 9, 2024
• Developer: SFB Games
• Download: Steam

This remake of a cult-classic survival horror game features puzzle elements and a retro aesthetic reminiscent of Resident Evil and Silent Hill. Players explore an abandoned amusement park, facing mysteries and monsters.

Why Underrated: Crow Country, despite positive reviews, was overshadowed by larger releases. While criticized for simple combat and puzzles, its atmosphere, plot, and gameplay are compelling for fans of classic horror.

Nobody Wants to Die

Image: youtube.com

• Release Date: July 17, 2024
• Developer: Critical Hit Games
• Download: Steam

This dystopian detective game is set in a noir 2329 New York where death is conquered. Detective James Carr investigates murders, uncovering mysteries related to transhumanism and immortality. The game blends detective elements, sci-fi, and unique time-manipulation mechanics.

Why Underrated: Nobody Wants to Die's ambitious blend of genres and philosophical themes might have hindered its widespread appeal. Despite its visual excellence, it faced competition from larger titles.

2024 offered many exceptional games that didn't achieve mainstream success. These ten titles, each with unique strengths, deserve a second look. Remember, sometimes the smaller gems leave the most lasting impression.