Best PC Games of 2024 So Far!

2024 has been quite a year for gaming, and we're only halfway through! From Tekken 8 and Dragon's Dogma 2 to Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, we've had our fair share of big hitters. Then there have been the unexpected gems—the much-celebrated indies, such as Penny's Big Breakaway, and Norland. Truly, with all these top-notch games, I don't know how we've had time for anything much else!

We've been so excited about the 2024 game releases so far that instead of waiting until December to compile our roundup of the best games of the year, we've decided to start early. Half a year early! We're so confident in the quality of the games dropped so far that we've undertaken a midyear review, with a promise to update the list at the end of 2024. Sound like a good idea? We thought so!

Now, without further ado, here's our list of the best PC game releases of 2024 ordered by release date. All I can say is that it's a good year to be a gamer!

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Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (Released Jan 25th, 2024)

A JRPG powerhouse, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth represents one of the most compelling and endearing Yakuza games to date. With intense turn-based combat; characters you'll fall in love with; a plot to pull at your heart strings; and a dynamic open-world environment full of intricate content and elaborate side quests, it takes everything you know and love from the series and elevates it to new heights.

With layer upon layer of complexity, drama, and hilarity, you'll be pushed to find a more fully packaged RPG anywhere on the market. Whether you're a longtime Kiryu fan, or new to the franchise, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a contender for RPG of the year, and should not be missed!

TEKKEN 8 (Released Jan 26th, 2024)

Delighting both newcomers and veterans alike, Tekken 8 has shattered expectations, claiming its place as arguably the best fighting game of a generation. Featuring new and refined combat mechanics; impressive graphics; electrifying audio; precise controls; and an intense and more offense-orientated gameplay, this latest entry in the legendary series blends chaotic Mishima drama with full throttle battles.

The new Heat system adds strategy and excitement to each match, with the Arcade Quest bringing an old-school nostalgia to your fighting experience, as well as providing much appreciated opportunities to refine your skills. Nailing a perfect balance between the familiar and the cutting-edge, Tekken 8 delivers for competitive fighters and casual gamers. It's a knock out.

Persona 3 Reload (Released Feb 2nd, 2024)

If you liked Persona 3, you'll love Persona 3 Reload. Arguably one of the best remakes of the year, Persona 3 Reload is the definitive version of the PlayStation 2 classic. Staying true to the original, this remake enhances the core gaming experience with an improved battle system, overhauled visuals, and a remixed soundtrack that brings the game into the modern day.

While owners of the 2023 Persona 3 Portable might not find enough changes to warrant a replay, those seeking an entry point into this beloved classic will find Persona 3 Reload to be an excellent choice. It’s exceptionally well done

Penny's Big Breakaway (Released Feb 21st, 2024)

Developed by Evening Star, the team behind Sonic Mania, this 3D-platformer's got speed. Plenty of it. But it's not just fast for the sake of being fast. You see there's an art to generating momentum, and you are rewarded for the momentum that you build. In other words, there's a reason to go fast, and it's a lot of fun improving your speed and accuracy!

What's particularly impressive about Penny's Big Breakaway, is that the momentum-based mechanics are completely bespoke. This isn't a Unity or Unreal project; it's built entirely in-house from the ground up. With modern day innovation and old-school sensibilities, the developers have taken everything they've learnt from Sonic, and translated it to 3D. And it works! Penny's Big Breakaway is a lot of fun - we're certainly still playing it!

Pacific Drive (Released Feb 22nd, 2024)

Ghostbusters meets Mad Max and Stalker in this unforgettable car-based survival sim / love story between a driver and his vehicle. A complex and challenging roguelite caRPG, rich in atmosphere and lore, Pacific Drive transports you to a post-apocalyptic world full of mystery and intrigue.

With an old-school station wagon as your sole companion, Ironwood Studios' impressive debut seamlessly blends survival horror with vehicular exploration. The excursions are intense, the characters are colorful, the soundtrack is catchy, and moments of humor break the tension for some light relief. The most compelling aspect, however, is maintaining your station wagon. Even non-car enthusiasts will find themselves enthralled by the mechanics of keeping what becomes your best friend on the road!

Expeditions: A MudRunner Game (March 5th, 2024)

If you love the physics-based movement in MudRunner and SnowRunner but prefer off-roading to driving on pre-made roads, then Expeditions: A MudRunner is 100% the game for you.

There’s no need to concern yourself with mastering freight trucks and trailers here. Instead, Expeditions: A MudRunner offers a 4-wheel drive sandbox experience, perfect for the days when you want to explore off-road trails, enjoy the scenery, and experiment with some crazy rock stunts. With an impressive amount of content, this game provides a solid and enjoyable experience that's only going to get better.

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley (March 7th, 2024)

An enchanting puzzle game that perfectly captures the heart of the Moomin series, Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley offers a charming and positive experience ideal for younger gamers, or anyone in search of some heart-warming entertainment.

Featuring a driven protagonist dedicated to protecting his friend and preserving the environment, the artwork is beautiful, the soundtrack is mesmerizing, and the gameplay mechanics are fun. What more could you ask for?

Basically, if you're looking for intense thrills, this is not the game for you. However, if you want some positive vibes that will leave you feeling good, Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is a delightful and cozy indie gem that I defy you not to like.

Dragon's Dogma 2 (March 21st, 2024)

Dragon's Dogma 2 was the release every gamer was waiting for in 2024, and it did not disappoint. Building on the cult classic, Capcom has delivered a sequel that surpasses expectations. This fantasy RPG pushes the open-world genre to new heights, offering a deep and challenging experience that commands your respect.

Tough but fair, Dragon's Dogma 2 rewards players who master its rules of engagement. The absence of fast travel emphasizes the importance of the journey, making every moment a thrilling adventure. If you're a fan of action RPGs, this masterpiece is a must-play. Don't miss out on this instant classic!

Manor Lords (Released April 26th, 2024)

Blending city-building with real-time strategy, Manor Lords offers an intricate and immersive look into medieval lordship. Featuring detailed mechanics, stunning graphics, and impressive historical accuracy, you’ll manage resources, construct settlements, and lead armies in tactical battles in this compelling and innovative strategy experience. If you're a fan of historical sims and enjoy the challenge of striving for greatness, Manor Lords is right up your alley!

V Rising (Released May 8th, 2024)

Ever wanted to experience a video game as the baddy for once? Here's your chance! V Rising brings a fresh take on the survival genre, casting players as newly awakened vampires in a gothic open world.

Combining base-building, resource management, and intense combat, this is your opportunity to construct your very own gothic-style castle as you gather strength and rebuild your vampire empire.

A quick word of warning: when fighting the wide variety of bosses, be sure to keep track of the time. Attempting to take on a nemesis just before dawn adds an extra element of danger, perfect for the thrill seekers among you!

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree (June 20th, 2024)

2024 will always be known as the year of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree. As the sole DLC for one of the biggest titles ever, its launch was nothing short of momentous.

An epic game in its own right, with around 40 hours of content, this expansion is a must-play. If you haven't yet defeated the required Elden Ring bosses to access it, drop everything, get back to The Lands Between, and start battling!

Trust us, every gamer needs to play Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree. Overflowing with secrets, valuable treasures, challenging bosses, and terrifying monstrosities, the graphics are stunning, the lore is intriguing, and the gameplay is insane. It's everything you love about the base game, and more. Truly, this is 10 out of 10 territory. You will not be disappointed!

Norland (Released July 18th, 2024)

The most recent of the 2024 releases so far, Norland was the most wish-listed strategy game in Steam. A perfect blend of Crusader Kings-like aristocratic power plays, and detailed RimWorld-esque survival mechanics, it's a medieval fantasy colony sim full of surprises.

With remarkably systems-driven progression and gameplay loops, we've been impressed with the look and feel of this Early Access release. The UI is accessible, and the character-based narrative twists are compelling. There's clearly more to come, but this feature-rich sim definitely deserves its place on this list of the best PC game releases in 2024. We look forward to what Norland's future holds in store!

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