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

Ten Underrated Video Games of 2024 That Deserve More Recognition

2024 saw a flurry of video game releases, but some gems were overshadowed. This article highlights ten games that deserve more attention, offering a diverse range of genres and experiences you might have missed.

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 title showcases modern action at its finest. As Captain Titus, you engage in brutal combat against Tyranids, utilizing the Ultramarines' arsenal. Cinematic battles, a grim future setting, and cooperative gameplay combine for an unforgettable experience. The graphics bring the Warhammer universe to life.

Why Underrated: Despite its quality, Space Marine 2 surprisingly missed a "Game of the Year" nomination, sparking fan outrage. Its dynamic gameplay, stunning visuals, and co-op mode are overshadowed by its niche appeal to Warhammer fans, potentially excluding a wider audience.

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 offer multifaceted gameplay.

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

Open Roads

Image: backloggd.com

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

Open Roads is a poignant narrative focusing on a mother and daughter's journey to uncover family secrets. Dialogue, emotional scenes, and exploration are central. The unique visual style, blending hand-drawn characters with 3D environments, is memorable. It's a powerful exploration of relationships and self-discovery.

Why Underrated: The game's intimate nature and lack of intense action may have limited its appeal to a broader audience. However, its artistic merit and emotional depth make it a unique and rewarding experience.

Pacific Drive

Image: store.playstation.com

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

This unconventional survival simulator casts you as a lone driver exploring a hazardous zone filled with anomalies. Maintaining your vehicle is crucial for survival, demanding careful route planning and constant repairs. The game's atmosphere and unique premise make it unforgettable.

Why Underrated: While critically acclaimed, Pacific Drive faced criticism regarding controls, interface, and repetitive gameplay elements. Despite its flaws, the game's originality and atmospheric world make it a worthwhile experience for those who appreciate unconventional game design.

Rise of the Ronin

Image: deskyou.de

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

This action-RPG transports players to 19th-century Japan, a period of significant change. As a ronin, you navigate conflicts between tradition and progress. Samurai combat, open-world exploration, and moral dilemmas combine for a compelling experience. The game's visual style captures the spirit of 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 set it apart.

Cannibal Abduction

Image: nintendo.com

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

This tense survival horror game returns to the genre's roots. Trapped in a cabin and pursued by cannibals, survival is your primary goal. Resource management, puzzle-solving, and a terrifying atmosphere create a challenging experience.

Why Underrated: Cannibal Abduction might have been lost among larger horror releases. Its low-fi graphics, while contributing to its unique charm, may have alienated some players. However, it's a tribute to classic survival horror, offering a thrilling and nostalgic experience.

Still Wakes the Deep

Image: pixelrz.com

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

This atmospheric horror game takes place on a remote North Sea oil platform. Survival and escape are paramount as an unexplained horror unfolds. The tense atmosphere, 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, comparable to titles like SOMA and Amnesia, offering a unique setting and fresh take on survival.

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 personal truth through abstract gameplay. Players navigate surreal environments, interacting with clues and experiencing a contemplative narrative.

Why Underrated: Despite award nominations, Indika's unconventional gameplay and lack of traditional mechanics may have alienated some players. 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 features puzzle elements reminiscent of Resident Evil and Silent Hill. Explore an abandoned amusement park, solving mysteries and facing dangers. The retro visual style and gripping storyline create a memorable experience.

Why Underrated: Crow Country was overshadowed by larger 2024 releases, despite positive reviews. While some criticized its simpler mechanics, its detailed atmosphere, unique plot, and engaging gameplay make it a worthwhile title for horror fans.

Nobody Wants to Die

Image: youtube.com

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

This dystopian detective game sets the scene in a noir-esque New York City of 2329, where death has been conquered. Detective James Carr investigates murders, uncovering mysteries related to immortality and transhumanism. The game blends detective elements and sci-fi with photorealistic graphics and unique time-manipulation mechanics.

Why Underrated: Despite its ambitious concepts and philosophical depth, Nobody Wants to Die lacks widespread recognition. Its blend of genres might deter players seeking a more linear experience. The game's visual excellence may also be overshadowed by larger-budget titles.

2024 offered a diverse range of exceptional games, many of which deserved more recognition. These ten titles, while not all major hits, offer unique and memorable experiences. Let's remember that smaller gems can often leave the most lasting impact.