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

In 2024, video game developers presented us with a variety of exciting releases, but not all of these projects received the attention they deserved. Some were overshadowed by major hits, while others went unnoticed due to minor issues at launch. In this article, we will talk about ten games that deserve more recognition and that you might have missed. If you think you've seen it all, get ready to discover new gems in the gaming industry.

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2

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This game is a prime example of how modern action should look. Playing as Captain Titus, you battle relentless Tyranids using everything the Ultramarines' arsenal has to offer, from thundering bolters to powerful chainswords. The combination of cinematic battles, a well-crafted atmosphere of a grim future, and a cooperative mode makes every mission incredibly engaging. Add to this graphics that bring the Warhammer universe to life, and you have a game that’s hard to forget.

Why it's underrated:

Despite its brilliance, Space Marine 2 was overlooked for a "Game of the Year" nomination at The Game Awards 2024, which caused an uproar among fans. It has everything: dynamic gameplay, stunning visuals, fun co-op, and a unique setting. However, it caught the attention of only Warhammer 40,000 fans. It could be appealing to even those unfamiliar with this universe.

Last Epoch

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A unique action-RPG where time travel and a deep character development system take center stage. Players explore the world of Eterra, divided into different epochs, battling enemies and changing the course of history. Five base classes with many subclasses, the Monolith of Fate system, and extensive crafting options make every gaming session exciting and multifaceted.

Why it's underrated:

Last Epoch managed to attract attention after release but was quickly forgotten. This is unfortunate, as it offers a fresh take on action-RPGs: a dynamic timeline system, balanced gameplay, and accessible tutorials. It's a worthy choice for players looking for something new while still enjoying the familiar pleasures of the genre.

Open Roads 

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Open Roads is a touching story about a mother and daughter who embark on a journey to uncover family secrets. The game focuses on dialogue, emotional scenes, and exploring the surrounding world. The unique visual style, blending drawn characters with 3D environments, makes the game especially memorable. This is not just an adventure; it’s a deep dive into the relationships of the characters, their experiences, and their search for the truth.

Why it's underrated:

Open Roads might have been overlooked due to its intimacy and lack of action elements that mass audiences often prefer. Nevertheless, it’s an example of how video games can be art, telling stories that deeply move the soul. Unfortunately, its modesty and emphasis on emotional content may have alienated those looking for more dynamic experiences. Yet, this is a rare and powerful experience worth having.

Pacific Drive

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Pacific Drive is an unusual survival simulator where your only ally is your car. You venture into a forbidden zone full of anomalies and dangers, trying to uncover its secrets while keeping your vehicle in working order. Every trip becomes a challenge: you must carefully plan your route, repair damages, and avoid deadly traps. The unique atmosphere and grim world make the game unforgettable, especially for those who love unconventional concepts.

Why it's underrated:

While critics have praised Pacific Drive (on Metacritic, the game received positive reviews, and 79% of reviewers on OpenCritic recommend it), the project has its controversial moments. Some players found the controls, interface, and constant repair needs challenging. Repetitive gameplay and frequent random events can be frustrating.

Nevertheless, the game deserves attention for its originality, atmosphere, and deep respect for the literary source material. If you're looking for something unconventional and are willing to forgive its rough edges, Pacific Drive will offer you an unforgettable journey.

Rise of the Ronin

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A grand action-RPG from Team Ninja, transporting you to 19th-century Japan, an era of drastic changes and upheavals. You play as a ronin — a free warrior caught in the middle of the conflict between tradition and progress. The game combines elements of samurai combat, open-world exploration, and an intriguing story full of difficult moral choices. The beautiful visual style and detailed world make you feel the spirit of an era on the brink of change.

Why it's underrated:

Despite its massive potential and charisma, Rise of the Ronin could have been overshadowed by other big releases. It’s unfairly seen as "just another samurai game," even though it offers a unique atmosphere and historical depth, creating something more than just an action game. The complex themes of the modernization era and the freedom of choice in gameplay make it worth paying attention to, especially for those who appreciate historical adventures with an Eastern aesthetic.

Cannibal Abduction

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A tense survival horror that takes us back to the roots of the genre. You find yourself in a secluded cabin, being pursued by a family of cannibals, and your main goal is to survive at any cost. Breaking furniture for weapons, hiding in the shadows, and solving puzzles, you gradually uncover a horrifying story. The oppressive atmosphere, limited resources, and constant sense of danger turn every moment into a true challenge.

Why it's underrated:

Cannibal Abduction might have gotten lost among louder horror releases. Its low-fi graphics and intimate approach may turn off those accustomed to graphical sophistication, but these elements create the unique charm of the game. This project is an ode to classic survival horror games like Resident Evil or Silent Hill, and it should be tried by all fans of old-school horror looking for adrenaline with every step.

Still Wakes the Deep

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An atmospheric horror from The Chinese Room, set on an isolated oil platform in the North Sea. Your task is to survive and attempt to escape the platform, engulfed in chaos due to an unexplained horror lurking in the dark. The unique combination of a tense atmosphere, disturbing sound design, and detailed decorations creates an immersive experience that will send chills down your spine. Without weapons and minimal chances of rescue, you rely solely on your wit and survival instinct.

Why it's underrated:

Still Wakes the Deep might not have received due attention due to its modest marketing and niche genre. Nevertheless, it is a work of art in the horror genre, focused on atmosphere and psychological tension. The game reminds of hits like SOMA and Amnesia but offers a unique location and fresh take on survival themes. If you enjoy slow-burning but gripping stories with a lonely, unsettling atmosphere, this project certainly deserves your time.

Indika

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An unusual and provocative game that immerses players in a world where religion, philosophy, and the search for personal truth intertwine with abstract and surreal gameplay. Players navigate through empty, dark spaces, interacting with clues that don’t always provide a clear picture of what's happening. Despite the lack of traditional gameplay mechanics, the game offers a serene atmosphere filled with deep cutscenes and mini-games, allowing players to appreciate its visual richness and contemplative narrative.

Why it's underrated:

Indika didn’t receive the recognition it deserved despite nominations for the Golden Joystick and The Game Awards. It is often labeled a "blank slate" due to the lack of tangible impact from actions on the storyline and gameplay mechanics, as well as the overly lengthy cutscenes. 

However, despite the criticism, the game stands out due to its visual style and philosophical approach, making it interesting for those who see it not as a traditional action game but as an art project with deep reflections. Its polarizing themes and unconventional gameplay make it interesting to critics and players, but it didn’t achieve widespread popularity.

Crow Country

Image: store.steampowered.com

A remake of a cult-classic survival horror with puzzle elements, inspired by iconic PlayStation 1 games such as Resident Evil and Silent Hill. Players take on the role of an investigator exploring an abandoned amusement park in Georgia, USA, filled with mysteries, monsters, and dangers. The game’s unique visual style, evoking the atmosphere of retro horror, combined with a gripping storyline, makes Crow Country an unforgettable experience for fans of the genre.

Why it's underrated:

Despite positive reviews from critics and its immersive atmosphere, Crow Country remained overshadowed by major 2024 releases. Some critics pointed out the simplicity of its combat mechanics and puzzles, as well as a lack of deep psychological themes. However, its attention to detail, unique plot with unexpected twists, and well-crafted gameplay make it a must-play for fans of classic horror games and exploratory adventures.

Nobody Wants to Die

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A dystopian detective game that transports us to a grim, art-deco-noir New York in 2329, where death has been defeated, and human consciousnesses are stored in memory banks. In this world, immortality is only available to the chosen few, and death is no more than a temporary problem. 

The protagonist, detective James Carr, investigates a series of murders plaguing the city’s elite and soon becomes entangled in complex mysteries related to transhumanism and immortality. The game blends detective genre elements and sci-fi with photorealistic graphics created on Unreal Engine 5, as well as unique mechanics allowing players to manipulate time and reconstruct events at crime scenes.

Why it's underrated:

Despite ambitious ideas and deep philosophical questions about immortality, transhumanism, and social contrasts, Nobody Wants to Die has yet to gain wide recognition. The game tries to combine multiple styles and genres, which may deter players expecting more linear or traditional solutions. Additionally, despite its visual excellence, the game may face competition from larger projects.

The year 2024 has brought many interesting and ambitious projects, many of which did not receive the attention they deserved. From deep philosophical explorations in dystopian worlds to tense horrors and unique adventures, each of these games offers something special worth noting.

As we head into 2025, let’s remember that not every excellent game can be a major hit, and sometimes the smaller gems end up being the most memorable in the long run.

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