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 game showcases modern action at its finest. As Captain Titus, players engage in intense battles against Tyranids, utilizing the Ultramarines' arsenal. Cinematic combat, a gripping grim-dark atmosphere, and a cooperative mode make for an unforgettable experience. The stunning visuals 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, visuals, co-op, and setting deserve wider recognition, appealing even beyond Warhammer fans.

Last Epoch

Image: store.steampowered.com

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

A unique action-RPG featuring time travel and deep character development. Players explore Eterra, battling across different epochs and altering history. The five base classes, numerous subclasses, Monolith of Fate system, and crafting options provide engaging and multifaceted gameplay.

Why Underrated: Last Epoch initially gained traction but was quickly forgotten. Its innovative time-manipulation mechanic, 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 game emphasizes dialogue, emotional scenes, and exploration. Its unique visual style, blending hand-drawn characters with 3D environments, is memorable. It's a deeply emotional journey focusing on relationships and truth.

Why Underrated: Its intimate nature and lack of action may have limited its appeal. However, it's a testament to video games as art, delivering a powerfully moving narrative.

Pacific Drive

Image: store.playstation.com

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

A unique survival simulator where a player's car is their only ally. Players explore a forbidden zone filled with anomalies and dangers, repairing their vehicle and navigating treacherous terrain. The game's atmosphere and unconventional concept are unforgettable.

Why Underrated: While critically acclaimed, Pacific Drive faced criticism regarding controls, interface, and repetitive gameplay. Despite its flaws, its originality and atmosphere make it worth experiencing for those who appreciate unconventional games.

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. Players embody a ronin, navigating conflicts between tradition and progress. Samurai combat, open-world exploration, and moral choices combine with beautiful visuals to create an immersive historical experience.

Why Underrated: Rise of the Ronin may have been overshadowed by other major releases. While appearing like a typical samurai game, it offers unique atmosphere and historical depth, exceeding expectations.

Cannibal Abduction

Image: nintendo.com

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

A tense survival horror game returning to the genre's roots. Players must survive a family of cannibals in a secluded cabin, using scavenged weapons and solving puzzles. The oppressive atmosphere and limited resources create a constant sense of danger.

Why Underrated: Cannibal Abduction may have been lost amongst larger horror releases. Its low-fi graphics, while contributing to its unique charm, may have alienated some players. It's a nostalgic experience for fans of classic survival horror.

Still Wakes the Deep

Image: pixelrz.com

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

An atmospheric horror set on a North Sea oil platform. Players must survive and escape an unexplained horror. The tense atmosphere, sound design, and detailed setting create an immersive and chilling experience.

Why Underrated: Modest marketing and a niche genre may have limited its reach. However, it's a masterclass in atmospheric horror, reminiscent of SOMA and Amnesia, offering a unique setting and survival themes.

Indika

Image: store.epicgames.com

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

A provocative game exploring religion, philosophy, and personal truth through abstract and surreal gameplay. Players navigate dark spaces, interacting with clues and experiencing deep cutscenes and mini-games. Its visual richness and contemplative narrative are noteworthy.

Why Underrated: Despite award nominations, Indika's unconventional gameplay and lack of traditional mechanics may have alienated some players. It's a unique art project with profound philosophical themes.

Crow Country

Image: store.steampowered.com

• Release Date: May 9, 2024
• Developer: SFB Games
• Download: Steam

A remake of a cult-classic survival horror game, inspired by Resident Evil and Silent Hill. Players explore an abandoned amusement park, solving puzzles and facing monsters. Its retro visual style and gripping storyline create an unforgettable horror experience.

Why Underrated: Crow Country was overshadowed by bigger releases. While some criticized its simple mechanics, its detailed atmosphere, unique plot, and gameplay make it a compelling title for classic horror fans.

Nobody Wants to Die

Image: youtube.com

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

A dystopian detective game set in a grim, art-deco New York in 2329 where death has been conquered. Detective James Carr investigates murders, unraveling mysteries related to transhumanism and immortality. The game combines detective elements and sci-fi with photorealistic graphics and unique time-manipulation mechanics.

Why Underrated: Despite its ambitious concepts and philosophical questions, Nobody Wants to Die lacks widespread recognition. Its blend of genres and potentially challenging gameplay may have hindered its broader appeal.

2024 offered many ambitious games that didn't achieve mainstream success. These ten titles, each unique and compelling, deserve a second look. Remember, sometimes the smaller gems leave the most lasting impression.