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 of 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. The blend of cinematic battles, a grim future setting, and cooperative gameplay creates an unforgettable experience. Stunning 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, visuals, co-op mode, and unique setting should appeal far beyond the Warhammer fanbase.

Last Epoch

Image: store.steampowered.com

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

A standout action-RPG featuring time travel and deep character progression. Explore Eterra, traversing different epochs and altering history. Five base classes, numerous subclasses, the Monolith of Fate system, and extensive crafting provide endless replayability.

Why Underrated: Last Epoch initially gained traction but faded quickly. Its innovative time-based system, balanced gameplay, and clear tutorials make it a hidden gem for action-RPG fans seeking something fresh.

Open Roads

Image: backloggd.com

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

A poignant narrative-driven game following a mother and daughter uncovering family secrets. The focus is on dialogue, emotional depth, and exploration. The unique art style, combining hand-drawn characters with 3D environments, is captivating.

Why Underrated: Open Roads' intimacy and lack of action may have limited its appeal. However, it's a testament to video games as art, delivering a deeply moving story. Its emotional focus might have alienated those seeking more action-oriented gameplay.

Pacific Drive

Image: store.playstation.com

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

A unique survival simulator where your car is your only companion. Explore a forbidden zone filled with anomalies and dangers, repairing your vehicle and navigating treacherous terrain. The unsettling atmosphere and unconventional gameplay are unforgettable.

Why Underrated: While critically acclaimed (positive Metacritic and OpenCritic scores), Pacific Drive faced criticism regarding controls, interface, and repetitive elements. Despite these flaws, its originality and atmosphere 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

Team Ninja's grand action-RPG transports you to 19th-century Japan. Play as a ronin caught between tradition and progress. The game blends samurai combat, open-world exploration, and a compelling story with moral choices. The visuals beautifully capture the era.

Why Underrated: Rise of the Ronin might have been overshadowed by larger releases, unfairly categorized as "just another samurai game." Its unique atmosphere, historical depth, and complex themes deserve more attention.

Cannibal Abduction

Image: nintendo.com

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

A tense survival horror game that harkens back to the genre's roots. Evade a cannibal family in a secluded cabin, scavenging for resources and solving puzzles. The oppressive atmosphere and constant danger create a truly challenging experience.

Why Underrated: Cannibal Abduction might have been lost amidst bigger horror releases. Its low-fi graphics, while contributing to its unique charm, may have alienated some players. It's a worthy tribute to 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 rig. Survive and escape the platform, haunted by an unexplained horror. The tense atmosphere, sound design, and detailed environment create an immersive and chilling experience.

Why Underrated: Still Wakes the Deep's modest marketing and niche genre likely contributed to its lack of recognition. It's a masterclass in atmospheric horror, reminiscent of SOMA and Amnesia, but with a unique setting and fresh take on survival.

Indika

Image: store.epicgames.com

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

A thought-provoking game exploring religion, philosophy, and the search for truth through abstract gameplay. Navigate surreal environments, interacting with cryptic clues. Despite the unconventional mechanics, the game offers a serene atmosphere and a deep 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

A remake of a cult classic survival horror game, reminiscent of Resident Evil and Silent Hill. Explore an abandoned amusement park, solving puzzles and evading monsters. The retro-inspired visuals and gripping storyline create an unforgettable experience.

Why Underrated: Crow Country was overshadowed by larger releases, despite positive reviews. While criticized for simpler mechanics, its attention to detail, plot twists, and gameplay make it a worthwhile experience 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 noir-inspired New York City of 2329, where death is conquered. Investigate murders, manipulate time, and unravel mysteries related to immortality and transhumanism. The game boasts photorealistic graphics and unique mechanics.

Why Underrated: Despite its ambitious concept and philosophical themes, Nobody Wants to Die hasn't gained widespread recognition. Its blend of genres and potentially challenging gameplay might have limited its appeal.

2024 offered a diverse range of compelling games. While not all achieved mainstream success, these ten titles demonstrate the creativity and ambition within the gaming industry, proving that smaller gems can often leave the most lasting impressions.