Top 10 Underrated Games of 2024 You Missed

In 2024, the gaming world witnessed a plethora of exciting releases, yet some titles slipped under the radar despite their remarkable qualities. Whether overshadowed by bigger franchises or hindered by minor launch issues, these hidden gems deserve more recognition. Below, we spotlight ten standout games that may have flown under your radar but are well worth exploring.

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

Release Date: September 9, 2024
Developer: Saber St. Petersburg
Download: Steam

Set in the grimdark universe of Warhammer 40,000, this game delivers a cinematic action experience with Captain Titus leading the charge against relentless Tyranid hordes. The combination of dynamic combat, co-op multiplayer, and breathtaking visuals places Space Marine 2 among the best action games of the year.

Why It’s Underrated:
Despite its critical acclaim, the game missed out on major awards like "Game of the Year." Its blend of intense action, strategic depth, and a richly detailed world deserves more praise from both Warhammer fans and newcomers alike.

Last Epoch

Release Date: February 21, 2024
Developer: Eleventh Hour Games
Download: Steam

A fresh take on action RPGs, Last Epoch features a time-travel mechanic and deep character progression. Players traverse diverse epochs in the world of Eterra, unlocking new abilities and altering the course of history.

Why It’s Underrated:
With its innovative gameplay, balanced difficulty, and comprehensive tutorials, Last Epoch offers a refreshing experience within the crowded RPG genre. Yet, it faded from public interest despite its promising start. Fans of the genre should revisit this hidden gem.

Open Roads

Release Date: March 28, 2024
Developer: Open Roads Team
Download: Steam

This emotionally charged journey follows a mother-daughter duo as they explore a mysterious island in search of family secrets. Open Roads emphasizes storytelling over action, weaving a poignant tale through dialogue and introspective moments.

Why It’s Underrated:
Its understated nature and focus on narrative may not appeal to everyone, but its artistic visuals and heartfelt storytelling make it a must-play for those seeking meaningful experiences.

Pacific Drive

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

A survival simulator set in a dangerous, anomaly-ridden zone, Pacific Drive challenges players to survive while maintaining their vehicle. The game’s eerie atmosphere and unconventional premise make it a standout in the genre.

Why It’s Underrated:
Critics praised its unique concept, but some players found its controls and repetitive gameplay frustrating. Nonetheless, its originality and literary inspirations earn it a place among noteworthy survival games.

Rise of the Ronin

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

Set in 19th-century Japan, Rise of the Ronin combines samurai combat with open-world exploration and moral dilemmas. Its historical depth and stunning visuals transport players to a transformative era.

Why It’s Underrated:
Though overshadowed by bigger releases, this game brings a fresh perspective to the samurai genre, offering players a deeper connection to the era’s cultural and political struggles.

Cannibal Abduction

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

A tense survival horror game set in a remote cabin, where players evade a cannibal family. Its low-fi graphics and resource management create an immersive, claustrophobic experience reminiscent of classic horror games.

Why It’s Underrated:
While its retro charm may not appeal to everyone, Cannibal Abduction remains a love letter to survival horror, delivering thrills and chills for nostalgic gamers.

Still Wakes the Deep

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

An atmospheric horror game set aboard an oil rig, Still Wakes the Deep immerses players in a tense survival experience with minimal combat. The game’s haunting sound design and intricate details make it a standout in the genre.

Why It’s Underrated:
Despite its niche appeal, this game’s masterful storytelling and chilling atmosphere set it apart from other survival horrors.

Indika

Release Date: May 2, 2024
Developer: Odd-Meter
Download: Epic Games Store

A thought-provoking game exploring religion, philosophy, and existentialism, Indika invites players to ponder life’s mysteries through surreal visuals and abstract gameplay.

Why It’s Underrated:
While polarizing, Indika’s artistic vision and deep narrative resonate with players open to unconventional storytelling.

Crow Country

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

A remake of a cult-classic survival horror, Crow Country combines retro aesthetics with modern gameplay. Players investigate an abandoned amusement park, uncovering secrets and surviving terrifying encounters.

Why It’s Underrated:
Despite its strong points, Crow Country was overshadowed by other releases. Its unique atmosphere and compelling puzzles make it a standout for horror enthusiasts.

Nobody Wants to Die

Release Date: July 17, 2024
Developer: Critical Hit Games
Download: Steam

Set in a dystopian future where immortality reigns, this detective game explores themes of transhumanism and societal inequality. Its photorealistic graphics and time-manipulation mechanics add layers to its noir-inspired narrative.

Why It’s Underrated:
Though ambitious, the game’s experimental nature and complex mechanics may alienate some players. However, its philosophical depth and visual prowess make it a compelling experience.

As we close out 2024, it’s important to celebrate the smaller, lesser-known titles that bring innovation and creativity to the gaming landscape. These games remind us that great experiences can come in many forms—big or small.