These are the biggest games of 2024 that want to play right now
The gaming landscape witnessed an exceptional year in 2023, with countless memorable experiences. While reflecting on our favorite games from the past year was enjoyable, our focus has shifted towards the anticipation of upcoming releases in the next 12 months.
Although the 2024 gaming release schedule is still unfolding, there’s already a wealth of exciting prospects on the horizon. This includes remakes of cherished classics such as Final Fantasy VII and Persona 3, as well as sequels to well-received titles like Hades and Hellblade. Moreover, there are promising original titles in the pipeline, ensuring that this year will not solely be dominated by sequels and remakes.
Adding to the excitement, there are speculations about the emergence of new gaming hardware like the PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2 in 2024, promising a dynamic and eventful year for gamers. Below, we’ve compiled a list of nine eagerly awaited games spanning various platforms that we’re eager to dive into right away.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown (January 18)
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
I’m eagerly anticipating playing a game this year, and fortunately, it’s set to release soon! Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown appears to be a nostalgic experience in more than one way. While its side-scrolling format pays homage to the original 1982 game, the trailers for The Lost Crown showcase features that go beyond the capabilities of the original.
The game boasts dynamic and seamless movements, coupled with a fast-paced combat system, all accentuated by a vibrant color palette that breathes life into the prince’s world. Although the Prince of Persia series faced challenges in the post-PS2 era, The Lost Crown seems to be off to a promising start. I’m excited to witness the recreation of this beloved series on the Switch!
The Last of Us Part II Remastered (January 19)
Platforms: PS5
Undoubtedly, The Last of Us Part II stands out as one of the top-notch games on the PS4, maintaining a contemporary standard through its impressive visuals and seamless gameplay. The game received a free framerate boost on PS5 in 2022, and while it doesn’t necessarily require a remaster, the imminent release of a native PS5 version by Naughty Dog is certainly exciting.
Although the enhancements in visuals and performance may be subtle, the introduction of faster loading times and complete DualSense support, while appreciated, are not crucial. What truly excites me about revisiting the intense post-apocalyptic world with Ellie and Abby are the confirmed additional features. The upcoming remastered edition of The Last of Us Part II will introduce a new roguelike-inspired mode and provide access to new audio commentaries, offering a glimpse into three levels that didn’t make it into the final game.
As one of my all-time favorite games, The Last of Us Part II is likely to become even more definitive through this remastered version, providing an enriched and modernized way to experience this gaming masterpiece.
Persona 3 Reload (February 2)
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Having thoroughly enjoyed Persona 4 Golden and Persona 5 Royal long after their initial launches, I’m thrilled about the prospect of playing Persona 5 Reload right from its release on Xbox Game Pass. This reimagining by Atlus, a studio known for defining the RPG genre, allows players to immerse themselves in the role of a transfer student who discovers unexpected powers.
While Persona 3 originally debuted on the PS2, it later made its way to the PSP as Persona 3 Portable before being adapted for modern consoles last year. Although some compromises were made for the PSP version, the upcoming release of Persona 3 Reload on February 1 promises cutting-edge graphics, quality-of-life enhancements, and a contemporary user interface. Upon learning about this updated version, I opted to forgo the re-release of Persona 3 Portable, eager to experience the series’ darkest Persona in all its glory, complete with the improvements introduced in subsequent entries.
Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth (February 29)
Platform: PS5
Being a fervent admirer of Final Fantasy VII Remake, my excitement for its sequel, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, comes as no surprise. Now venturing beyond Midgar, the game promises an expansive exploration of the vast lands of Gaia alongside Cloud Strife, Tifa Lockheart, and the rest of the crew. If the previous game’s scale impressed you, Rebirth is set to immerse players in a truly expansive world teeming with towns, monsters, and countless hidden secrets.
Final Fantasy VII Remake lived up to its name by not only revamping the original game’s graphics but also introducing new plot twists that had the potential to reshape the familiar narrative. While Rebirth seems to revisit familiar territory, as I detailed in my hands-on preview, I anticipate significant unexpected twists that will keep the experience fresh. The anticipation to dive into this game is truly palpable!
Rise of the Rōnin (March 22)
Platforms: PS5
In the realm of blockbuster video games, the emergence of new intellectual properties (IPs) is becoming increasingly uncommon. Despite the notable gaming achievements of 2023, marked by the success of various sequels such as Baldur’s Gate 3, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, and Alan Wake 2, my attention is now captivated by Rise of the Rōnin due to its promise of delivering a truly innovative experience.
A major factor adding to the allure is its development by Team Ninja, a Japanese team with a distinguished track record, having honed their skills on the Ninja Gaiden franchise and producing the acclaimed Soulslike titles Nioh and its sequel in the previous console generation. Rise of the Rōnin is said to be their most ambitious project yet, set against the backdrop of Japan during the Boshin War. It boasts a rich environment featuring historical cities like Yokohama and Kyoto, offering a blend of narrative choices and intense cinematic combat encounters. This combination of elements positions it as a highly promising and unique gaming experience in my eyes.
Hades 2 (Q2 2024)
Platforms: PC
In my view, Hades stands out as the pinnacle of the rogue-like genre. Its captivating combat, numerous unlockables, and engaging narrative easily secure it a spot in my top 10 games of all time. I’m eagerly anticipating the sequel set to release in 2024. While the September announcement may have gone unnoticed by many, the game showcased a dazzling new trailer at The Game Awards, along with an Early Access launch scheduled for Q2 2024.
SuperGiant Games, the developer behind Hades, promises that the sequel will offer “at least as much content from day one in Early Access as the original game did back when it launched in Early Access on Steam.” This assertion has me excitedly anticipating the release. With a fresh protagonist wielding a new array of weapons and a multitude of additional powers, players can expect innovative and game-changing combinations to confront the challenges of the underworld. Should you meet your demise, simply emerge from a pool of blood and give it another shot.
Pragmata (2024)
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Originally unveiled in 2020 during a PlayStation State of Play event, Pragmata from Capcom emerged as a refreshing concept in the midst of a gaming landscape dominated by remakes and sequels. Now, nearly four years later and following multiple delays, the sci-fi action adventure game may finally make its highly anticipated debut in 2024.
Pragmata offers a unique perspective on a dystopian future, blending elements reminiscent of Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar and various games developed by Hideo Kojima. While details about the game’s core gameplay remain scarce, the intrigue lies in this very mystery. Polygon aptly characterizes Pragmata as Capcom’s interpretation of the “Dad Game” genre, drawing parallels to titles like The Last of Us and God of War. This association is drawn from the promotional material featuring an unidentified spaceman and a young girl named Diana.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II (2024)
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S
Since the astonishing revelation of Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II in 2019, followed by the gameplay reveal in 2021 and the breathtaking trailer at The Game Awards 2023, I have eagerly anticipated the continuation of Senua’s impactful story. The fusion of Norse mythology and the intricacies of mental health creates a captivating narrative.
Expected to release sometime this year (I’m leaning towards October), the game promises an immersive experience. From the visually stunning environments and mesmerizing performances of the actors to the exceptional audio design and gratifyingly intense melee combat, it appears to be the thrilling single-player AAA game I’ve been dreaming of. Moreover, the fact that it will be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one adds to its appeal. Following a lackluster 2023 with disappointments like Redfall and Starfield, this could potentially be the next flagship title that truly sells the Microsoft gaming system.
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree (2024)
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
The much-anticipated Elden Ring DLC is set to capture the attention of gamers this year, potentially becoming one of the most detailed and expansive additional content releases in the gaming world. As we approach the two-year anniversary of FromSoftware’s popular game, fans are eagerly anticipating a new and more immersive experience in the Lands Between. Although the Colosseum update added some excitement in late 2022, enthusiasts are eager for a fresh journey through the intricately crafted world.
Despite having only a glimpse of an image, the premise of Shadow of the Erdtree remains shrouded in mystery, much like the darkness within Fia’s heart. Nonetheless, fan speculation is running rampant, with various intriguing theories emerging about where the next chapter of Elden Ring might take the Tarnished, possibly bringing them face-to-face with Miquella, the twin brother of Malenia.