2024: Ten Underrated Video Games You Might Have Missed

2024 saw a flurry of video game releases, but some gems were overshadowed by blockbuster titles or suffered from minor launch issues. This article highlights ten games deserving more recognition. Prepare to discover hidden treasures in the gaming world!

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 game exemplifies modern action. As Captain Titus, you battle relentless Tyranids, utilizing the Ultramarines' arsenal – from bolters to chainswords. Cinematic combat, a grim future atmosphere, and co-op gameplay create intensely engaging missions. Stunning graphics bring the Warhammer universe to life.

Why Underrated: Despite its excellence, Space Marine 2 surprisingly missed a "Game of the Year" nomination at The Game Awards 2024, sparking fan outrage. Its dynamic gameplay, visuals, co-op, and unique setting should appeal far beyond Warhammer 40,000 enthusiasts.

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 a deep character development system. Explore Eterra, traversing different epochs, battling enemies, and altering history. Five base classes, numerous subclasses, the Monolith of Fate system, and extensive crafting options ensure exciting and varied gameplay.

Why Underrated: Last Epoch initially gained traction but was quickly forgotten. This is a shame, as its dynamic timeline, balanced gameplay, and accessible tutorials offer a fresh take on the action-RPG genre.

Open Roads

Image: backloggd.com

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

Open Roads tells a touching story of a mother and daughter uncovering family secrets. The game emphasizes dialogue, emotional scenes, and exploration. Its unique visual style – blending drawn characters with 3D environments – is memorable. It’s more than an adventure; it's a deep exploration of relationships and the search for truth.

Why Underrated: The game's intimate nature and lack of action may have alienated some. However, it showcases video games as art, telling deeply moving stories. Its focus on emotion may have overshadowed its artistic merit for those seeking more action-oriented experiences.

Pacific Drive

Image: store.playstation.com

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

Pacific Drive is an unusual survival simulator where your car is your only ally. Venture into a forbidden zone filled with anomalies and dangers, uncovering secrets while maintaining your vehicle. Careful route planning, repairs, and avoiding traps are crucial. The unique atmosphere and grim world are unforgettable.

Why Underrated: While critically acclaimed (positive Metacritic and OpenCritic scores), controversies arose regarding controls, interface, and constant repairs. Repetitive gameplay and random events can be frustrating. Despite these issues, its originality and atmosphere warrant attention.

Rise of the Ronin

Image: deskyou.de

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

Team Ninja's grand action-RPG transports you to 19th-century Japan. Play as a ronin caught between tradition and progress. The game blends samurai combat, open-world exploration, and a compelling story with difficult moral choices. Stunning visuals capture the spirit of a changing era.

Why Underrated: Rise of the Ronin may have been overshadowed by other big releases, unfairly categorized as "just another samurai game." Its unique atmosphere, historical depth, complex themes of modernization, and player agency deserve recognition.

Cannibal Abduction

Image: nintendo.com

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

A tense survival horror returning to genre roots. Trapped in a secluded cabin, you’re pursued by cannibals, fighting for survival. Improvise weapons, hide in shadows, and solve puzzles to uncover a horrifying story. The oppressive atmosphere, limited resources, and constant danger create a true challenge.

Why Underrated: Cannibal Abduction may have been lost amongst bigger horror releases. Its low-fi graphics, while creating unique charm, might deter those expecting high-fidelity visuals. It's an homage to classic survival horror, appealing to fans of old-school thrills.

Still Wakes the Deep

Image: pixelrz.com

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

Atmospheric horror set on a North Sea oil platform. Survive and escape the chaos caused by an unexplained horror. The tense atmosphere, disturbing sound design, and detailed setting create an immersive experience. With limited resources and no weapons, survival depends on wit and instinct.

Why Underrated: Modest marketing and niche genre may have limited its reach. It's a work of art in horror, focusing on atmosphere and psychological tension, reminiscent of SOMA and Amnesia, but with a unique setting and fresh survival themes.

Indika

Image: store.epicgames.com

• Release Date: May 2, 2024
• Developer: Odd-Meter
• Download: Steam

A provocative game blending religion, philosophy, and the search for truth with abstract gameplay. Navigate dark spaces, interacting with cryptic clues. Despite lacking traditional mechanics, the serene atmosphere, deep cutscenes, and mini-games allow appreciation of its visuals and contemplative narrative.

Why Underrated: Despite Golden Joystick and Game Awards nominations, Indika was labeled a "blank slate" due to its lack of direct action-storyline impact and lengthy cutscenes. However, its visual style and philosophical approach appeal to those viewing it as an art project rather than a traditional action game.

Crow Country

Image: store.steampowered.com

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

A remake of a cult-classic survival horror with puzzles, reminiscent of PlayStation 1 titles. Explore an abandoned amusement park, facing mysteries, monsters, and dangers. The retro horror visual style and gripping storyline create an unforgettable experience.

Why Underrated: Positive reviews notwithstanding, Crow Country was overshadowed by larger 2024 releases. Critics noted simple combat and puzzles, and a lack of deep psychological themes. However, its attention to detail, unique plot, and gameplay make it a must-play for fans of classic horror.

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 grim, art-deco-noir New York (2329), where death is conquered. Detective James Carr investigates murders, uncovering mysteries related to transhumanism and immortality. The game blends detective elements and sci-fi with photorealistic graphics and unique time-manipulation mechanics.

Why Underrated: Despite ambitious ideas and philosophical questions, Nobody Wants to Die lacks widespread recognition. Its blend of styles and genres may deter players seeking more linear experiences. Despite visual excellence, it faces competition from larger projects.

2024 offered many interesting and ambitious games that deserved more attention. From philosophical explorations to tense horror and unique adventures, each game offers something special. Remember, not every excellent game becomes a blockbuster; sometimes, the smaller gems are the most memorable.