Top 10 Underrated Games of 2024 You Missed

In 2024, the gaming industry released a plethora of exciting titles, yet some of these gems went under the radar. Whether overshadowed by blockbuster hits or hindered by minor launch issues, these games deserve a second look. Here are ten games that you might have missed but are definitely worth exploring.

Table of Content ---

• 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

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 exemplifies modern action gaming at its finest. As Captain Titus, you combat the relentless Tyranids with an arsenal of Ultramarines' weaponry, from thundering bolters to powerful chainswords. The game's cinematic battles, immersive atmosphere of a grim future, and cooperative mode make each mission thrilling. Coupled with stunning graphics that vividly bring the Warhammer universe to life, this title is unforgettable.

Why it's underrated:

Despite its excellence, Space Marine 2 was overlooked for a "Game of the Year" nomination at The Game Awards 2024, sparking fan outrage. With dynamic gameplay, stunning visuals, engaging co-op, and a unique setting, it should appeal to a broader audience beyond just Warhammer 40,000 enthusiasts.

Last Epoch

Image: store.steampowered.com

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

Last Epoch is a standout action-RPG that revolves around time travel and deep character development. Players journey through the world of Eterra, navigating different epochs while battling enemies and altering history. With five base classes, numerous subclasses, the Monolith of Fate system, and extensive crafting, every session is diverse and engaging.

Why it's underrated:

Though Last Epoch garnered attention post-launch, it quickly faded from the spotlight. It offers a fresh take on the genre with a dynamic timeline, balanced gameplay, and accessible tutorials, making it a great choice for those seeking innovation within a familiar framework.

Open Roads

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

Open Roads is a poignant narrative about a mother and daughter uncovering family secrets on a journey. Focused on dialogue, emotional depth, and environmental exploration, the game's unique visual style blends drawn characters with 3D environments, making it a memorable experience. It's more than just an adventure; it's an exploration of character relationships and the quest for truth.

Why it's underrated:

Open Roads might have been overlooked due to its intimate nature and lack of action, which may not appeal to mass audiences. Nonetheless, it showcases the artistic potential of video games to tell emotionally compelling stories, making it a powerful experience worth exploring.

Pacific Drive

Image: store.playstation.com

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

Pacific Drive is a unique survival simulator where your car is your only ally in a forbidden zone filled with anomalies and dangers. Each journey demands careful route planning, vehicle repairs, and evasion of deadly traps. The game's grim world and unique atmosphere create an unforgettable experience, particularly for fans of unconventional gameplay.

Why it's underrated:

Despite positive critical reception, Pacific Drive faced mixed player feedback due to challenging controls, interface issues, and repetitive gameplay. Yet, its originality, atmosphere, and respect for its literary source make it a worthy title for those willing to embrace its unique challenges.

Rise of the Ronin

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Release Date: March 22, 2024
Developer: Team Ninja
Download: PlayStation

Rise of the Ronin is an expansive action-RPG set in 19th-century Japan during a period of drastic change. As a ronin, you navigate a conflict between tradition and progress, blending samurai combat with open-world exploration and a narrative full of moral choices. Its beautiful visuals and detailed world immerse you in the era's atmosphere.

Why it's underrated:

Despite its potential, Rise of the Ronin may have been overshadowed by other major releases. Often seen as just another samurai game, it offers much more with its unique atmosphere, historical depth, and gameplay freedom, making it a must-play for fans of historical adventures.

Cannibal Abduction

Image: nintendo.com

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

Cannibal Abduction is a tense survival horror that harkens back to the genre's roots. Stranded in a secluded cabin, you evade a cannibal family while using makeshift weapons, hiding, and solving puzzles to uncover a terrifying story. The game's oppressive atmosphere and limited resources make every moment a challenge.

Why it's underrated:

Cannibal Abduction may have been overshadowed by more prominent horror releases. Its low-fi graphics and intimate approach might deter those accustomed to high-end visuals, yet these elements contribute to its unique charm. It's a must-try for fans of classic survival horror.

Still Wakes the Deep

Image: pixelrz.com

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

Still Wakes the Deep is an atmospheric horror set on an isolated North Sea oil platform engulfed in chaos. Your mission is to survive and escape, relying solely on your wit and survival instincts. The game's tense atmosphere, unsettling sound design, and detailed settings create an immersive experience.

Why it's underrated:

Despite its artistic merit, Still Wakes the Deep may have been overlooked due to modest marketing and its niche genre. It's a masterclass in atmospheric horror, akin to SOMA and Amnesia, offering a unique setting and fresh take on survival themes.

Indika

Image: store.epicgames.com

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

Indika is a thought-provoking game that blends religion, philosophy, and personal truth with abstract and surreal gameplay. Players navigate dark, empty spaces, interacting with clues that often leave much to interpretation. Despite lacking traditional mechanics, the game offers a serene atmosphere with deep cutscenes and mini-games, showcasing its visual richness and contemplative narrative.

Why it's underrated:

Indika, despite nominations for the Golden Joystick and The Game Awards, didn't receive the recognition it deserved. Labeled a "blank slate" due to its unconventional gameplay and lengthy cutscenes, it remains a polarizing yet fascinating art project for those seeking deep reflections.

Crow Country

Image: store.steampowered.com

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

Crow Country is a remake of a cult-classic survival horror with puzzle elements, inspired by iconic PlayStation 1 games like Resident Evil and Silent Hill. As an investigator, you explore an abandoned amusement park in Georgia, filled with mysteries and monsters. Its retro horror atmosphere and gripping storyline make it a standout title.

Why it's underrated:

Despite positive reviews, Crow Country was overshadowed by bigger 2024 releases. Critics noted the simplicity of its combat and puzzles, yet its attention to detail, unique plot twists, and well-crafted gameplay make it essential for fans of classic horror.

Nobody Wants to Die

Image: youtube.com

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

Nobody Wants to Die is a dystopian detective game set in a grim, art-deco-noir New York of 2329, where death is a temporary issue and immortality is exclusive. As detective James Carr, you investigate murders among the elite, delving into mysteries of transhumanism and immortality. The game blends detective elements and sci-fi with photorealistic graphics and unique time manipulation mechanics.

Why it's underrated:

Despite its ambitious themes and philosophical depth, Nobody Wants to Die hasn't gained widespread recognition. Its blend of genres and styles might deter those expecting more traditional gameplay, yet its visual excellence and innovative mechanics make it a hidden gem.

The year 2024 has introduced many intriguing and ambitious titles, many of which didn't receive the attention they deserved. From philosophical explorations in dystopian settings to tense horrors and unique adventures, these games offer something special. As we move into 2025, remember that not every great game can be a blockbuster, and sometimes the lesser-known titles become the most memorable.