Underrated Gems: Discover 10 Hidden Treasures from 2024

Ten Underrated Video Games of 2024 That Deserve More Recognition

2024 saw a flurry of video game releases, but some gems were overshadowed by bigger titles or launch issues. This article highlights ten games deserving more attention. Prepare to discover hidden treasures in the gaming world!

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 game exemplifies modern action. As Captain Titus, you battle relentless Tyranids, utilizing the Ultramarines' arsenal – from bolters to chainswords. Cinematic combat, a grim future atmosphere, and co-op gameplay make each mission captivating. Stunning graphics bring the Warhammer universe to life.

Why Underrated: Despite its excellence, Space Marine 2 surprisingly missed a "Game of the Year" nomination at The Game Awards 2024, sparking fan outrage. Its dynamic gameplay, visuals, co-op, and setting deserve broader recognition beyond the Warhammer fanbase.

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. Explore Eterra, traversing different epochs, battling enemies, and altering history. Five base classes, numerous subclasses, the Monolith of Fate system, and extensive crafting ensure engaging and varied gameplay.

Why Underrated: Last Epoch initially gained traction but was quickly forgotten. Its innovative time-manipulation system, 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 drawn characters with 3D environments – is memorable. It's a deep dive into relationships and the search for truth.

Why Underrated: Its intimate nature and lack of action may have alienated some. However, it's a powerful example of video games as art, telling emotionally resonant stories.

Pacific Drive

Image: store.playstation.com

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

An unusual survival simulator where your car is your only ally. Explore a forbidden zone filled with anomalies and dangers, repairing your vehicle and avoiding traps. The unique atmosphere and grim world are unforgettable.

Why Underrated: While critically acclaimed (positive Metacritic and OpenCritic scores), controversial aspects like controls, interface, and constant repairs hindered broader appeal. Despite its flaws, its originality and atmosphere make it worthwhile for those willing to overlook its rough edges.

Rise of the Ronin

Image: deskyou.de

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

Team Ninja's 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 visual style captures the spirit of a changing era.

Why Underrated: Possibly overshadowed by other major releases, it's unfairly dismissed as "just another samurai game." Its unique atmosphere, historical depth, and complex themes deserve more recognition.

Cannibal Abduction

Image: nintendo.com

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

A tense survival horror returning to genre roots. 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: Lost among bigger horror releases, its low-fi graphics may deter some, but this contributes to its unique charm. It's a homage to classic survival horror.

Still Wakes the Deep

Image: pixelrz.com

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

Atmospheric horror set on a North Sea oil platform. 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 niche genre likely contributed to its lack of attention. It's a masterful work of atmospheric horror, reminiscent of SOMA and Amnesia, but with a unique setting and survival themes.

Indika

Image: store.epicgames.com

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

A provocative game blending religion, philosophy, and the search for truth with abstract gameplay. Navigate dark spaces, interacting with cryptic clues. Despite lacking traditional mechanics, its serene atmosphere, cutscenes, and mini-games offer a visually rich and contemplative experience.

Why Underrated: Despite award nominations, it's labeled a "blank slate" due to its unconventional gameplay and lengthy cutscenes. However, its visual style and philosophical approach make it a unique art project.

Crow Country

Image: store.steampowered.com

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

A remake of a cult classic survival horror with puzzles, reminiscent of Resident Evil and Silent Hill. Explore an abandoned amusement park, facing mysteries, monsters, and dangers. Its retro horror visual style and gripping storyline are captivating.

Why Underrated: Overshadowed by larger releases, some criticized its simple combat and puzzles. However, its attention to detail, unique plot, and gameplay make it a must-play for fans of classic horror.

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-noir New York in 2329, where death is conquered. Investigate murders, unraveling mysteries of transhumanism and immortality. The game blends detective elements and sci-fi with photorealistic graphics and unique time-manipulation mechanics.

Why Underrated: Its ambitious ideas and philosophical questions haven't garnered widespread recognition. The blend of genres may deter some, and competition from larger titles hindered its visibility.

2024 offered many impressive games, some unjustly overlooked. These titles, from philosophical explorations to tense horror and unique adventures, each offer something special. Remember, not every great game becomes a blockbuster, and sometimes the smaller gems leave the most lasting impression.