Honorable Mentions: Outstanding 2024 Picks
Choosing the top 10 games for 2024 was no easy feat.
As always, a plethora of titles came up for consideration, sparking in-depth discussions among our team.
Ultimately, we narrowed it down to just ten remarkable games, leaving out several others that we hold in high esteem.
Some of these selections have clicked with individual team members, while others may not have had the spotlight they deserve.
Regardless, each game featured in this list has received enthusiastic praise from at least one GameSpot staffer, highlighting their individual merits.
Expect to find some hidden treasures among these picks, whether they’re quirky gems or polarizing titles that didn’t quite make the final cut.
Just because these games didn’t make the definitive top 10 doesn’t mean they lack quality.
On the contrary, each one has won the admiration of at least one of our team members, and they all deserve to be highlighted.
Highlighted Titles
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Tactical Breach Wizards: Chris Pereira, known for his love of Into the Breach, sees Tactical Breach Wizards as an exciting progression of tile-based tactical gameplay.
This title shifts from a roguelike format to a narrative-driven escapade filled with humor and a meticulously crafted campaign.
Players are encouraged to think outside the box and explore a variety of strategies, often turning daunting tasks into achievable challenges.
The sheer joy of tossing opponents through windows adds a playful element, creating a delightful mix of humor, storyline depth, and tactical fun.
It’s especially enjoyable when played on the Steam Deck.
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Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2: Gabe Gurwin reflects on the remarkable journey of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, noting the surprising nature of its existence, especially given the mixed reviews of its predecessor years ago.
Saber Interactive has achieved something special by crafting a sequel that not only honors the original but also enhances it with smoother combat mechanics.
The gameplay strikes a balance between a linear narrative and expansive environments, immersing players in both the story and cooperative missions.
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The Outlast Trials: Mark Delaney has developed a fondness for The Outlast Trials, a co-op horror experience from Red Barrels.
This game veers away from the competitive PvP focus prevalent in many horror titles today, opting instead for a PvE approach that creates a more collaborative atmosphere.
While the cooperative elements may ease the horror intensity, the unpredictable missions and intriguing characters keep players engaged.
Regular updates breathe new life into the game, energizing the community and ensuring a promising future for this horror offering.
Diverse Gameplay Experiences
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UFO 50: Steve Watts shines a light on UFO 50, a nostalgic tribute to retro gaming that imagines a fictional console complete with 50 distinct games.
The diversity and quality of these imaginary games span various genres, all linked by a clever meta-narrative around game creation.
Players will find themselves reminiscing about uncovering hidden treasures, making the experience equally fun and thought-provoking as they reflect on gaming’s evolution.
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Minishoot Adventures: Steve Watts highlights Minishoot Adventures, which puts a unique spin on the Zelda-inspired genre by focusing on shoot-em-up mechanics rather than traditional melee combat.
In this game, players control Minishoot as they navigate dungeons, collecting gear to boost combat prowess.
The game masterfully balances exploration with frenetic action and includes numerous accessibility options to accommodate all skill levels.
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Call of Duty: Black Ops 6: Eddie Makuch has come to appreciate Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, a title that surprised him as he’s typically a fan of the Modern Warfare series.
He finds enjoyment in the familiar gameplay, dynamic multiplayer maps, and wide array of weaponry.
The consistent updates and events contribute to an engaging experience, and Eddie looks forward to experiencing the campaign and Zombies modes down the line.
Each of these varied titles captures the innovative spirit and engaging experiences that 2024 has to offer, reflecting the vibrant gaming landscape of the year.
Source: GameSpot