Games
5 Amazing Games of 2024 (So Far) You Need to Play
Which games have stood tallest in the first half of 2024?
2024 is already turning out to be a stellar year for gaming, with the first two quarters delivering some sublime experience (of course, mixed with some underwhelming releases). However, it’s time to celebrate the good rather than lament the bad, so here are our picks for the best games of 2024 (so far):
Stellar Blade
Platforms: PS5
Probably not since Devil May Cry 5 have gamers had such a stylish and action-packed game to sink their teeth into, and Stellar Blade is that and so much more. It’s got an incredibly interesting and unique combat system that is engaging and satisfying to learn, stunning visuals, some unexpected gameplay variety, and a captivating new protagonist to boot. Stellar Blade deserves to be thrown onto the list of best action games without hesitation.
Helldivers 2
Platforms: PS5 | PC
The sequel to the small hit that was Helldiversups the production value, mechanics, fun, and ambition, and the team at Arrowhead Game Studios has delivered a punchy, interesting, and dynamic shooter that is constantly changing on the fly and keeps its tongue firmly planted in its cheek. Its soldiers vs. aliens set-up harks back to the satirical humour and spirit of Starship Troopers, but brings with it some gorgeous visuals, meaty gunfire combat, and a simple-yet-tactical gameplay loop that’ll see you fighting your way out of some absolutely chaotic situations. If Earth Defence Force and Dead Space had a grotesque but beautiful baby, it would be Helldivers 2, and we’re on board.
Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden
Platforms: Xbox Series X/S | PS5 | PC
How not more people are talking about Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden is a mystery. It’s one of the most impressive and interesting games of 2024 so far, giving players a heavily narrative-driven action RPG that trims the fat and focuses on fun, engaging combat and a captivating story and world. The result is a brilliant and haunting game that fleshes out its thought-provoking story with some great combat full of interesting ideas. Any fans of the action-adventure genre, should definitely summon Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden.
Tekken 8
Platforms: Xbox Series X/S | PS5 | PC
Whether you’re a newcomer or a longtime fan of the Iron Fist Tournament, Tekken 8 is a stellar fighting game that ramps up the bombastic elements for a more cinematic experience, but maintains the easy-to-learn, hard-to-master approach to its fighting mechanics, with a few new tricks thrown into the mix.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Platforms: Xbox Series X/S | PS5 | PC | Xbox One | PS4 | Switch
At first glance, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown might look like a ‘smaller’ spin-off title, but it’s anything but. It’s a well-executed and dense action platformer that combines all the best bits from Prince of Persia adventures throughout the years. From its slick combat with Dragon Ball Z-like animations to its clever time-manipulation platforming sequences, The Lost Crown is a must-play for newcomers and longtime fans.
What are your favourite games of 2024 so far? Let us know by tweeting @MenStuffZA, posting on our Facebook page, or commenting below.