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

Ten Underrated Video Games of 2024 You Might Have Missed

2024 delivered a diverse range of video games, but some stellar titles flew under the radar. This article highlights ten games deserving more recognition, offering a fresh perspective for seasoned gamers and newcomers alike. Prepare to discover hidden gems!

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

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Release Date: September 9, 2024 Developer: Saber St. Petersburg Platform: Steam

This action title exemplifies modern action game design. As Captain Titus, you engage in intense battles against relentless Tyranids, utilizing the Ultramarines' arsenal. The blend of cinematic combat, a compelling grim-dark atmosphere, and cooperative gameplay creates an unforgettable experience. Stunning visuals bring the Warhammer universe to life.

Why it's underrated: Despite its quality, Space Marine 2 surprisingly missed a "Game of the Year" nomination, sparking fan outrage. Its dynamic gameplay, visuals, co-op mode, and unique setting should appeal beyond just Warhammer fans.

Last Epoch

Image: store.steampowered.com

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

This action-RPG stands out with its time-travel mechanics and deep character development. Explore Eterra, traversing different epochs and altering history. Five base classes, numerous subclasses, the Monolith of Fate system, and extensive crafting provide multifaceted gameplay.

Why it's underrated: Last Epoch initially gained traction but faded quickly. Its innovative time-manipulation system, balanced gameplay, and accessible tutorials make it a hidden gem for action-RPG enthusiasts.

Open Roads

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

Open Roads tells a poignant story of a mother and daughter uncovering family secrets. The game prioritizes dialogue, emotional storytelling, and exploration. Its unique visual style—combining hand-drawn characters with 3D environments—is memorable. It's a deeply emotional journey into relationships and the search for truth.

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

Pacific Drive

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Release Date: February 22, 2024 Developer: Ironwood Studios Platform: Steam

Pacific Drive is a unique survival simulator where your car is your only companion. Explore a forbidden zone filled with anomalies and dangers, repairing your vehicle while uncovering secrets. Strategic route planning, damage control, and trap avoidance are crucial. The game's atmosphere and unconventional concept are unforgettable.

Why it's underrated: While critically acclaimed, Pacific Drive faced some criticism regarding controls, interface, and repetitive gameplay elements. Despite its flaws, its originality and atmosphere make it worth experiencing for those who appreciate unconventional game design.

Rise of the Ronin

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Release Date: March 22, 2024 Developer: Team Ninja Platform: PlayStation

Team Ninja's grand action-RPG transports you to 19th-century Japan. Play as a ronin navigating the conflict between tradition and progress. The game blends samurai combat, open-world exploration, and a compelling narrative with moral choices. The detailed world and visual style capture the spirit of the era.

Why it's underrated: Rise of the Ronin may have been overshadowed by other major releases. While seemingly another samurai game, it offers a unique atmosphere and historical depth that sets it apart. Its complex themes and player agency make it a worthwhile experience.

Cannibal Abduction

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

This tense survival horror harkens back to the genre's roots. Trapped in a secluded cabin and pursued by cannibals, survival is paramount. Scavenge for weapons, hide in the shadows, and solve puzzles to uncover a terrifying story. The oppressive atmosphere and limited resources create constant tension.

Why it's underrated: Cannibal Abduction may have been lost amidst larger horror releases. Its low-fi graphics, while contributing to its unique charm, might deter players seeking high-fidelity visuals. It's a nostalgic tribute to classic survival horror.

Still Wakes the Deep

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

This atmospheric horror unfolds on a remote North Sea oil platform. Survive and escape the platform, haunted by an unexplained horror. The tense atmosphere, unsettling sound design, and detailed environments create an immersive and chilling experience. Your wit and survival instincts are your only allies.

Why it's underrated: Still Wakes the Deep's modest marketing and niche genre likely contributed to its lack of recognition. It's a masterclass in atmospheric horror, reminiscent of SOMA and Amnesia, offering a unique setting and fresh take on survival.

Indika

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

This unusual game blends religion, philosophy, and the search for personal truth with abstract gameplay. Navigate dark spaces, interacting with cryptic clues. Despite its unconventional mechanics, the game's serene atmosphere, deep cutscenes, and mini-games offer a visually rich and contemplative experience.

Why it's underrated: Indika, despite award nominations, is often criticized for its lack of traditional gameplay and lengthy cutscenes. However, its unique visual style and philosophical approach appeal to those who appreciate art games with profound themes.

Crow Country

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Release Date: May 9, 2024 Developer: SFB Games Platform: Steam

This remake of a cult classic survival horror game blends puzzle elements and a retro aesthetic reminiscent of Resident Evil and Silent Hill. Explore an abandoned amusement park filled with mysteries, monsters, and danger. The game's visual style and gripping story create a memorable experience.

Why it's underrated: Crow Country, despite positive reviews, was overshadowed by larger releases. While some criticized its simple combat and puzzles, its attention to detail, unique plot, and engaging gameplay make it a worthwhile experience for fans of classic horror.

Nobody Wants to Die

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

This dystopian detective game sets you in a grim, art-deco New York in 2329, where death is conquered. Investigate murders among the city's elite, unraveling mysteries related to transhumanism and immortality. The game blends detective work, sci-fi, and photorealistic graphics with unique time-manipulation mechanics.

Why it's underrated: Despite its ambitious concepts and philosophical depth, Nobody Wants to Die hasn't gained widespread recognition. Its blend of genres and potentially challenging gameplay might deter some players.

Conclusion

2024 offered a diverse range of games, and these ten titles, while not all blockbusters, deserve recognition for their unique contributions to the gaming landscape. Sometimes, the smaller gems leave the most lasting impression.