The console gaming slate of 2024 delivered a mix of bold originals, ambitious remakes and genre-defining entries across Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Silent Hill 2 (PlayStation 5)
The Bloober Team–developed remake of Silent Hill 2 defied low expectations and reinterpreted the 2001 survival-horror classic for modern hardware. The project, taken on after years of mixed decisions by the original publisher Konami, preserves the title’s psychological core while updating visuals and atmosphere.
Reviewers and players highlighted the game’s striking graphics, oppressive mood and an emotionally resonant narrative, placing it among 2024’s standout console releases.
Metaphor: ReFantazio (PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S)
Metaphor: ReFantazio arrived as a fantasy RPG notable for its layered political storytelling and metafictional elements. The title won Best Narrative at The Game Awards 2024, recognition that reflects its complex plot and thematic ambition.
Combining strategic combat with frequent narrative twists, the game was widely regarded as a fresh contribution to the RPG landscape in 2024.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (PlayStation 5)
The second installment in the Final Fantasy VII remake project expanded into a sweeping open-world experience, offering dynamic combat and numerous side activities. The production’s scale and technical polish earned it high praise from fans of the franchise.
Critics noted the game’s emotional impact and technical achievements, while also pointing out a finale that some found confusing—yet the overall package remained essential for RPG enthusiasts.
Astro Bot (PlayStation 5)
Astro Bot emerged as a high point for 3D platforming on PlayStation 5, introducing a roster of inventive stages and playful mechanics. One standout sequence involves size-shifting gameplay, among several moments that celebrate both creativity and the platformer tradition.
The game positions Astro Bot as a mascot-quality character for Sony, delivering accessible yet imaginative platforming tailored to a modern console audience.
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom (Nintendo Switch)
Echoes of Wisdom takes a bold turn for the Zelda franchise by placing Princess Zelda at the center of an experimental adventure on Nintendo Switch. Players use a magic wand mechanic that copies enemies and items, introducing unconventional puzzles and combat options.
While the new mechanics earned praise for innovation, some combat systems drew criticism for imperfections. Nonetheless, Nintendo’s willingness to experiment secured the title a place among the year’s most notable console games.
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (Nintendo Switch)
The Switch remaster of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door revived the GameCube classic with refined gameplay and storytelling. The updated version emphasizes the series’ trademark humor and inventive RPG mechanics.
Fans of narrative-driven RPGs and witty dialogue found the remaster a must-play, as it preserves and polishes what made the original memorable.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X)
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth blends dramatic storytelling with frequent comedic beats, resulting in a balanced and highly engaging entry in the franchise. The game’s memorable cast and emotionally charged moments helped it stand out in 2024.
With an involved combat system and a deep narrative, many view this installment as the series’ strongest to date.
Helldivers 2 (PlayStation 5)
Helldivers 2 delivered straightforward, addictive cooperative shooter action in 2024. The game’s mission structure, polished mechanics and satirical tone made it an excellent choice for group play.
Players praised the title for providing intense sessions without unnecessary complexity, securing its place as a top shooter option on consoles this year.
