8Bit/Digi

Our Favorite Games of 2024

As the year comes to an end, it’s time to look back at our favorite games of 2024. These are the titles that stood out for their outstanding experience, pushing gaming to its limit or we just played it for four hours straight. Regardless of the reason, they are a representation of the video games that defined the year for us.

Please note that this list only includes games we have reviewed. If a game you liked isn’t here even though it was great, it’s because we didn’t review it.

Here are the games we enjoyed playing in 2024:

10. Silent Hill 2

Silent Hill 2’s remake is so bleak, yet we loved our time back in our ‘special place.’ One can’t wait to revisit Heaven’s Night or the Reverie Theater and take their time. It’s a recommendation for fans – new and old. It may be better to play the original first if that’s an option, to get more out of this remake, but we will be heading back into the fog again real soon.

9. Earth Defense Force 6

Earth Defense Force 6 is an over-the-top game that retains its defining elements while adding something new to the experience. It’s one of those games you play knowing it will feel like a B-film. You have to appreciate the action, replay value, and how openly it displays its inspirations. Additionally, the post-apocalyptic world is a welcome setting. Even if this is your first Earth Defense Force game, don’t worry about lore or plot elements – just have fun killing bugs.

8. Slave Zero X

The original Slave Zero stood as an ambitious game constrained by the technological limitations of its era. Slave Zero X not only allows the cult classic to experience a revival but it also pays homage to the dystopian anime that served as its inspiration. In doing so, it honors both its own lineage and the broader cultural influences that shaped its narrative and aesthetic.

7. The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak

The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak is the beginning of a new chapter regarding the story and direction of the series. Players will explore the Republic of Calvard within a familiar game with welcoming improvements and lovable new characters. In many ways, this game is a radical departure from past titles while retaining the core elements that have defined the series. The result is a new adventure built on a familiar foundation.

6. Granblue Fantasy: Relink

Granblue Fantasy Relink is not only a whimsical adventure but also a masterclass on how to bring a mobile game to the console and PC ecosystem. It’s an entry that has successfully brought its ambitious vision to life while avoiding the usual mistakes. The gameplay is easy to learn while the experience is rewarding be it through the boss battles or the replay. Bringing this world to life is the return of a familiar cast along with a solid soundtrack that knows how to set the tone. 

5. Mullet MadJack

Its anime style visuals will get your attention while the cyberpunk story will get you invested as the gameplay challenges you at every corner. Mullet MadJack will make you miss the culture, aesthetics, and style of the 80s. It will also remind you of the ugly truth we all seem to forget about the 80s and why such works were forged from this era.

4. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection

The Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection is a reminder of why the ’90s is looked back upon as a golden era for both Marvel and Capcom. It allows those of us who grew up with these games to replay them on modern consoles and the PC. It also allows a new generation of Marvel and Capcom fans to experience these classics for the first time.

3. Persona 3 Reload

Persona 3 Reload recreates one of the most iconic JRPGs with the knowledge accumulated over the last 17 years. The original paved the way for the series to evolve into what it is today. Although it was not without flaws, deviating from past entries with its ambitious vision. Reload provides a means for old school fans to revisit the iconic game, while newcomers can experience this classic on modern consoles or the PC.

2. Dragon’s Dogma 2

Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a masterpiece that elevates every defining aspect of its predecessor, enhancing the experience in numerous ways. The original left an indelible mark on players, and its sequel has adeptly applied the lessons gleaned from its predecessor to enhance the overall experience. This refinement yields a game that presents a familiar narrative imbued with uniqueness, evolving dynamically with the player’s choices while complemented with a responsive soundtrack.

1. Metaphor: ReFantazio

Metaphor: ReFantazio takes players on an unforgettable odyssey across a kingdom in turmoil while using a familiar setup. The narrative is a thought provoking story that will challenge your perception of moral politics. Players will embrace this journey with a familiar gameplay that is easy to learn with some unique new features.

What do you think of our selection, was there a game that should have been our “Best Games of 2024” list? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides insight into the gamer community of the San Francisco Bay Area.