{"id":35684,"date":"2024-12-17T12:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-12-17T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/?p=35684"},"modified":"2025-08-28T21:14:16","modified_gmt":"2025-08-28T19:14:16","slug":"best-video-games-to-play-this-year","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/best-video-games-to-play-this-year\/","title":{"rendered":"Best video games of 2024: Breaking down the 6 best games to play this year"},"content":{"rendered":"<\/span> 8<\/span> min read<\/span><\/span>\n

The holidays are approaching and you\u2019re likely thinking of gift ideas. To reduce your holiday headaches, we\u2019ve put together a list of the best video games of 2024 according to The Game Awards<\/a> along with some recent top picks from expert Dr. Antonio Daniele<\/a>, Academic Director of the Master in Videogame Design and Virtual Environments<\/a> at IE School of Architecture & Design<\/a>. From innovative gameplay to straightforward fun, take a scroll through our list of the best games to play and get your Christmas gift suggestions up-to-date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What makes a good video game? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Are you a total noob when it comes to the world of gaming? That’s gamer slang for “newbie” by the way\u2014at least it was when I was kid, and I’m the wrong side of 25, so don’t take my word for it. The question remains: What makes a good video game? Here are some of the top four parameters that make or break your playing experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Narrative<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While some video games may not even need a story, a strong narrative is a key point when judging a video game. This would include general themes, character types and story structures. All these aspects combine for an emotionally resonating game experience. Compelling stories tend to revolve around characters and their conflicts. Naturally, conflict resolves itself through gameplay. Platformers tend to be the best examples of games with strong story. Great examples include Red Dead Redemption 2<\/a>, The Walking Dead<\/a> and Mass Effect 2<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Art direction<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Art Direction or \u201cAD\u201d refers to the coherence between content and form. This involves anything from visuals to audio or interactivity. The expression of these things together contribute to the overall style of a piece. Great AD is always harmonious, going beyond simple aesthetics to the unity of all what can be contrasting elements. A few examples of video games with great AD are Banner Saga<\/a>, Persona 5<\/a> and Art of Rally<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Score and music<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Music can be the catalyst for an emotional journey. There are few cases where graphic effects aren’t augmented by a fitting soundtrack\u2014it brings the entire universe to life. What’s more, great scores don\u2019t just sound nice in isolation. They add to the effect of playing the game. There have been plenty of iconic video game scores across the years, though some household names would be Skyrim<\/a>, Halo<\/a> and Super Mario Bros<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Innovation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Innovation poses one simple question: What new thing are you bringing to the table? There are common trends throughout video games\u2014hunting in open world games, for example. But extra kudos goes to those who imagine beyond those trends. While it\u2019s difficult to be innovative and successful, games like Minecraft<\/a> have created their own niche in the market by making new user experiences. Some other examples of innovative games in recent memory include Mario Galaxy<\/a> and Arkham Asylum<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Best video games of 2024 according to The Game Awards <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What is the best video game in the world in 2024? The Game Awards take place each year to review top picks across various categories including \u201cBest Narrative\u201d, \u201cGames for Impact\u201d, \u201cBest Mobile Game\u201d and more. As of 13th December, The Game Award winners<\/a> were announced to worldwide acclaim. But, in case you missed the big news, here\u2019s a quick round-up of those featured in the \u201cGame of the Year\u201d category. This should get you inspired for holiday gift ideas if you’re looking exclusively for the best games of 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Astro<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Astro Bot (top pick of the best video games of 2024)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Four years after the three-hour \u201cAstro\u2019s Playroom\u201d dropped along with the PlayStation 5, the new full-fledged adventure \u201cAstro Bot\u201d has taken 2024 by storm. Featuring more than fifty levels, players use protagonist Astro to repair the PS5 mothership and save the day. With varied design through a plethora of different environments, \u201cAstro Bot\u201d is a love letter to gaming. If you\u2019re looking for Christmas gift ideas for kids and adults, this compact and fun experience is a sure choice\u2014and it’s now officially the greatest game 2024 produced!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

WINNER OF GAME OF THE YEAR AT THE GAME AWARDS 2024.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Balatro:<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Balatro<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If it ain\u2019t broke, don\u2019t fix it\u2014that\u2019s the philosophy behind poker-inspired \u201cBalatro\u201d. The game revolves around making poker hands and gaining chips across each round. LocalThunk have enhanced the gaming experience buy offering in-game upgrades based on these chips, which gives an innovative twist to classic gameplay. It\u2019s smart, it\u2019s adult and it\u2019s a great game for the holidays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Black<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Black Myth: Wukong<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\u201cBlack Myth: Wukong\u201d is one of the most ambitious games of the year. Equipped with overwhelmingly beautiful design, stunning combat sequences and genuinely challenging gameplay, this Chinese-culture-inspired action role play by Game Science is one for the gaming nerds. Based on the novel \u201cJourney to the West\u201d by Wu Cheng\u2019en, the story places you as \u201cThe Destined One\u201d, a monkey who strives to find the six relics of Wukong. It’s one of the top PC games 2024 has to offer and is also available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox XS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Elden<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Two years on from the release of \u201cElden Ring\u201d, the franchise is back and better than ever. \u201cElden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree\u201d is an expansion for the already-iconic roamer game made by FromSoftware. The \u201cErdtree\u201d realm is full of secrets, new platforms and some unforgettable boss battles. It\u2019s no surprise this was nominated for best video game of the year\u2014it\u2019s pure magic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Final Fantasy VII Rebirth<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The creators at Square Enix are at their best with Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, a remake of the original Final Fantasy VII trilogy made exclusively for PlayStation. This dynamic role-playing game is a refreshing, strategically-minded renewal that is fully immersive and full of 90\u2019s nostalgia. It\u2019s all about good conquering evil, and it\u2019s seriously addictive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Best<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Methaphor: Refantazio<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Methaphor: Refantazio is huge fantasy RPG. Set in the United Kingdom of Euchoronia, this medieval adventure follows the realm\u2019s fallout after the assassination of the previous king. Its animated cutscenes are a sure hit for lovers of anime. Created by the minds behind Persona 3, 4 and 5, this game capitalizes on everything they\u2019ve previously learned to create something truly fresh and engaging. It’s no surprise this was named as one of the best video games of 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Best games to play according to Dr. Antonio Daniele of IE School of Architecture & Design<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Are you a video game buff with creativity to spare? We’re here to tell you that working in video game design doesn’t have to be a pipe dream. Our new Master in Videogame Design and Virtual Environments<\/a> is an innovative program designed for fans of the medium or those interested in interactive media. Taking place across 10 months in the lively city of Madrid, this program is led by Dr. Antonio Daniele<\/a>, an expert in the sector and a true video game aficionado. To broaden your horizons (and show he knows his stuff), we’ve compiled Antonio’s top picks for fun gaming experiences from recent years\u2014which are perfect if you\u2019re looking for something new. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Twelve Minutes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The premise of \u201cTwelve Minutes\u201d is great. You are a man, you come home to dinner with your wife and, in a matter of moments, all hell breaks loose. Developed by Annapurna Interactive and published in 2021, \u201cTwelve Minutes\u201d centers around a time-loop concept and has several endings. It won\u2019t take long to finish, but building up the narrative in this puzzle game does require patience and intuition. With A-list names like Daisy Ridley, Willem Dafoe and James McAvoy on the roster, it\u2019s well worth your time: \u201cIt\u2019s not new but it\u2019s brilliant.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Exit 8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Similarly to \u201c12 Minutes\u201d, this piece by Kotake Create is a smart, simple puzzle game that’s a must for fans of the genre. While we don\u2019t want to give too much away (which means anything), \u201cThe Exit 8\u201d is a walking simulator that\u2019s full of jump scares and is genuinely eerie. Intrigued? Give it a try.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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It Takes Two<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This action-adventure platform game by Electronic Arts follows Cody and May, a couple headed for divorce. The twist? They somehow turn into a pair of dolls. The game follows a fantastical adventure across their house in an effort to return to normal. What\u2019s most impressive is its quality and the originality of the level design. It\u2019s rich, complex and engaging yet accessible for audiences of all ages. You’ll also have a lot of fun coordinating with your playing partner in real life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Control<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Made by the geniuses at Remedy Entertainment and published by 505 Games, \u201cControl\u201d is a supernatural third-person action-adventure that\u2019s fascinating and disturbing all at once. Tasked with mastering supernatural abilities, you encounter floating bodies, zombies and a creepy bureau that studies the occult. Dr. Antonio Daniele places this on his list of recent favorites due to the \u201cAshtray Maze\u201d level, on which the design maximizes player\u2019s flow and adrenaline, and the soundtrack boosts the whole experience. \u201cOne of the best levels I have ever played.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Ultimate Chicken Horse<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The final pick on our list of best video games in recent years is \u201cUltimate Chicken Horse\u201d by Clever Endeavour Games. It\u2019s plain weird, fun and extremely clever. \u201cIt\u2019s a party platformer and can be played with other people online, but I think the best experience is in the same room, to see the reactions of your adversary.\u201d A fun mix of multiplayer, platforming and level creation, this indie creation pits you against competitors to stop them reaching the end of the race by any means necessary. It\u2019s cartoonish, it\u2019s silly and it\u2019s got crossbows and teleporters. What\u2019s not to love?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What games are coming out in 2025?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

According to Venture Beat<\/a>, some of the best games of 2025 will include: “Elden Ring: Nightreign<\/a>“, “Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra<\/a>“, “Monster Hunter Wilds<\/a>“, “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet<\/a>“, “Avowed<\/a>“, “Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2<\/a>“, “Split Fiction<\/a>“, “Sid Meier’s Civilization 7<\/a>“, “Pok\u00e9mon Legends: Z-A<\/a>” and, last but not least, the sure-to-be iconic “Grand Theft Auto VI<\/a>“.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Be sure to check out GameSpot<\/a> for a complete 2025 games release schedule, including top PC titles and all you need to know for Xbox Series X|S, PS5, Nintendo Switch, mobile and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Create the best games to play yourself<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Think you have something special to add to the best video games of 2024? Challenge yourself to design ahead with IE School of Architecture & Design.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Learn More<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Are you a total noob when it comes to the world of gaming? That’s gamer slang for “newbie”.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":56,"featured_media":35697,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","_wpscppro_dont_share_socialmedia":false,"_wpscppro_custom_social_share_image":0,"_facebook_share_type":"default","_twitter_share_type":"default","_linkedin_share_type":"default","_pinterest_share_type":"default","_linkedin_share_type_page":"","_instagram_share_type":"default","_medium_share_type":"default","_threads_share_type":"","_google_business_share_type":"","_selected_social_profile":[],"_wpsp_enable_custom_social_template":false,"_wpsp_social_scheduling":{"enabled":false,"datetime":null,"platforms":[],"status":"template_only","dateOption":"today","timeOption":"now","customDays":"","customHours":"","customDate":"","customTime":"","schedulingType":"absolute"},"_wpsp_active_default_template":true},"categories":[337],"tags":[486,1015,483,505],"class_list":["post-35684","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-thought-leadership-identity","tag-design-and-architecture","tag-master-in-videogame-design-and-virtual-environments","tag-masters","tag-school-of-architecture-and-design"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\nBest video games 2024: Top PC games you should've played<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Look back at the best video games of 2024, from top PC titles to must-plays. Discover if you\u2019ve missed any of the year's standout games!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/best-video-games-to-play-this-year\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Best video games of 2024: Breaking down the 6 best games to play this year\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Look back at the best video games of 2024, from top PC titles to must-plays. 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