Each year, our Advent Calendar showcases a plethora of games we adore.
However, amidst the fanfare, some deserving titles inevitably slip through the cracks.
In this year’s 2024 Selection Boxes, we take a moment to spotlight those hidden gems.
Reflecting on my gaming tastes this year reveals a rich tapestry of preferences.
While they may appear eclectic, my favorites share a common thread: each one is outstanding in its own unique way.
Unfortunately, our website’s space constraints mean that not every remarkable title could make it into the Advent Calendar. Alan Wake 2: The Lake House I’m thrilled I waited to dive into Alan Wake 2, as Remedy’s brilliant multimedia venture weaves its two expansions deftly into the main narrative, making them feel essential.
The first DLC, Night Springs, unfolds in three whimsical episodes that players can access via specific televisions scattered throughout the story.
It injects humor and absurdity into an otherwise dark atmosphere. However, it’s The Lake House that truly stole my heart.
This expansion invites players to explore its grand, satirical architecture, reminiscent of Control, while embracing the meticulous survival horror that Alan Wake 2 delivers.
As Agent Kiran Estevez, players are drawn into a chilling FBC facility near Cauldron Lake, only to find it brimming with the distinctive and creative flair of Remedy.
The Lake House masterfully blends humor with tension, all while offering sharp critiques of its satirical subjects.
While I’ll preserve some mystery to avoid spoilers, I’ve shared my detailed impressions elsewhere. It’s clear that my enthusiasm for Alan Wake 2 has influenced my choice to spotlight this expansion.
Yet, this article reflects my personal insights—I have the freedom to express my opinion! I wholeheartedly recommend experiencing Alan Wake 2 for yourself; it embodies the spirit of indie gaming on a AAA budget, and it feels almost too good to be true.
If the game struggles to recover its costs, it will likely stem from Remedy’s reluctance to produce something that fits neatly into a marketing box. Total War: Warhammer III – Thrones of Decay Thrones of Decay rises above as a standout expansion for Total War: Warhammer III, marking the point when the game truly burst into life.
After a prolonged phase of uncertainty, the overall vibe surrounding the game shifted significantly, filled with renewed optimism.
While the Chaos Dwarf expansion was commendable, Thrones of Decay felt particularly jubilant, with excitement palpable not just from Creative Assembly, but also among fans—culminating in an expansion that was both robust and celebratory. This DLC centers on a fierce rivalry between the Nurgle warlord Tamurkhan and the dragon-riding death mage Elspeth Von Draken.
However, it was the mad dwarf engineer Malakai who emerged as my favorite character.
This campaign boasts a narrative richness that surpasses previous entries in the series, yet it still embraces the chaotic freedom synonymous with sandbox gameplay, ensuring both the narrative and sandbox elements satisfy. Given my deep investment in this game, it’s rare to find a year slip by without an expansion finding its way onto my favorites list.
Thrones of Decay, however, stands out as a peak experience within the series. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth A sensational moment unfolded at this year’s Game Awards with the announcement that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth would be making its way to PC.
This revelation, amidst Geoff’s comedic attempts to address earlier criticisms through skits, was perfectly timed.
It allowed me to convey my excitement about this remarkable title. With its impressive, revamped combat system, Final Fantasy VII Remake felt like a thoughtful take on the future of the franchise.
In contrast, Rebirth bursts forth as a vibrant celebration, brimming with energy and exuberance.
The game immerses players in a colorful world alive with joyful antics, capturing a carefree spirit.
While its design is expansive—perhaps bordering on excessive—it stays anchored by solid fundamentals in combat, exploration, and engaging side quests. Rebirth is a testament to the developers’ commitment to delivering a joyous experience.
Though it serves as the middle chapter of a broader narrative, it stands out as one of the most opulent and delightful RPGs I’ve encountered.
The joy it inspires is unmistakable, and it’s left me smiling more than ever in recent years.
Source: Rockpapershotgun