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

Ten Underrated Video Games of 2024: Hidden Gems You Might Have Missed

2024 saw a flurry of video game releases, but some truly exceptional titles flew under the radar. This article highlights ten games deserving far more recognition, offering a diverse range of genres and experiences you may have overlooked.

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 game sets a new standard for visceral combat. As Captain Titus, you unleash the Ultramarines' arsenal against relentless Tyranids. Cinematic battles, a grim future setting, and a compelling co-op mode combine for an unforgettable experience. The stunning graphics bring the Warhammer universe to life.

Why Underrated: Despite its excellence, Space Marine 2 surprisingly missed a "Game of the Year" nomination, sparking outrage among fans. Its dynamic gameplay, visuals, co-op, and unique setting deserve broader appeal beyond the Warhammer fanbase.

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 progression system. Explore Eterra, battling across different epochs and altering history. Five base classes, numerous subclasses, the Monolith of Fate system, and extensive crafting options ensure engaging, multifaceted gameplay.

Why Underrated: Last Epoch initially gained traction but was quickly forgotten. Its innovative time-manipulation mechanics, balanced gameplay, and accessible tutorials make it a standout action-RPG.

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 focus is on dialogue, emotional storytelling, and exploration. The unique visual style – blending hand-drawn characters with 3D environments – is captivating. This is more than an adventure; it's a deeply emotional journey of relationships and self-discovery.

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

Pacific Drive

Image: store.playstation.com

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

This unique survival simulator casts you as a lone driver venturing into a hazardous zone filled with anomalies. Your car is your only ally. Careful route planning, vehicle maintenance, and evading deadly traps are crucial. The game’s atmosphere and unconventional concept are unforgettable.

Why Underrated: While positively reviewed, Pacific Drive faced criticism regarding controls, interface, and repetitive gameplay. Despite these flaws, its originality and atmospheric world deserve recognition.

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, a time of upheaval. As a ronin, you navigate the conflict between tradition and progress. Samurai combat, open-world exploration, and impactful moral choices are central to the experience. The game's visuals beautifully capture the era.

Why Underrated: Rise of the Ronin may have been overshadowed by other major releases. While it might seem like another samurai game, its unique atmosphere, historical depth, and complex themes elevate it beyond typical action titles.

Cannibal Abduction

Image: nintendo.com

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

This tense survival horror harkens back to the genre's roots. Trapped in a cabin and pursued by cannibals, survival is paramount. Scavenging, hiding, and puzzle-solving unravel a terrifying story. The oppressive atmosphere and limited resources create constant tension.

Why Underrated: Cannibal Abduction may have been lost amidst bigger horror releases. Its low-fi graphics, while contributing to its unique charm, might deter some players. However, it's a fantastic 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 unfolds on a remote North Sea oil rig. Survival and escape are your goals amidst unexplained horrors. The tense atmosphere, unsettling sound design, and detailed setting create an immersive and chilling experience.

Why Underrated: Still Wakes the Deep's modest marketing and niche genre may have hindered its recognition. However, it's a masterclass in atmospheric horror, reminiscent of SOMA and Amnesia, but with a unique setting and fresh perspective.

Indika

Image: store.epicgames.com

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

Indika is a thought-provoking game exploring religion, philosophy, and the search for truth through abstract gameplay. Players navigate surreal environments, interacting with cryptic clues. Despite unconventional mechanics, the game boasts a serene atmosphere, rich visuals, and a contemplative narrative.

Why Underrated: Despite award nominations, Indika was criticized for its lack of traditional gameplay and lengthy cutscenes. However, its visual style and philosophical depth make it a unique artistic experience.

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 evokes the spirit of PlayStation 1 era titles. Explore an abandoned amusement park, facing mysteries, monsters, and peril. The retro-inspired visuals and gripping story create a memorable experience for horror fans.

Why Underrated: Crow Country was overshadowed by larger 2024 releases, despite positive reviews. While some criticized its simple mechanics, its atmosphere, plot twists, and gameplay are compelling.

Nobody Wants to Die

Image: youtube.com

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

This dystopian detective game sets its stage in a grim, art-deco New York of 2329, where death is conquered. Detective James Carr investigates murders amongst the immortal elite, uncovering mysteries of transhumanism and immortality. The game blends genres with photorealistic graphics and unique time-manipulation mechanics.

Why Underrated: Despite its ambitious themes and visuals, Nobody Wants to Die hasn't gained widespread recognition. Its blend of genres might deter some players, and competition from larger titles likely played a role.

2024 offered a wealth of diverse and ambitious games, many deserving more recognition. These hidden gems, from philosophical explorations to chilling horror, showcase the creativity and artistry within the gaming industry. Let's remember that not every great game becomes a blockbuster, and sometimes the smaller titles leave the most lasting impressions.