IGN’s recent update on the best PC games for 2024 highlights a diverse array of genres and titles, showcasing both highly anticipated sequels and innovative new games.
Diverse Gaming Experiences
Hollow Knight remains a leading title in the Metroidvania genre, enriched with multiple free updates since its release, making the game larger with new areas and bosses. Hollow Knight is appreciated for its depth and complexity, which may initially challenge players but ultimately offers a richly rewarding experience
Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon successfully combines classic mech gameplay with modern improvements learned from the Souls series, offering intense and rewarding boss battles.
Spider-Man Remastered on PC surpasses the PlayStation 5 version, utilising high-end graphics and providing an exhilarating experience of swinging through New York. Spider-Man Remastered‘s enhanced graphical capabilities on PC are highlighted as a significant improvement over console versions, pushing the limits of visual performance
Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus offers a profound narrative in an alternate history setting, where its anti-fascist message resonates strongly amidst beautifully crafted gameplay.
Final Fantasy XIV continues to excel as a standout MMO and a solid entry in the Final Fantasy series, impressively concluding over eight years of storyline through its expansions. IGN praises Final Fantasy XIV‘s ability to deliver a satisfying narrative experience in an MMO format is particularly noted, making it accessible and engaging even for solo players
Classic and Remake Highlights
Final Fantasy VII Remake reimagines the iconic RPG with a fresh action approach while maintaining strong nostalgia, creating a blend that both old and new fans appreciate.
Resident Evil 4 (2023 Remake) captures the essence of the original with enhanced graphics and gameplay, modernizing it for current audiences without losing the original’s charm.
God of War on PC opens the acclaimed game to a new audience, presenting a touching narrative and challenging combat that make it a must-play.
DOOM (2016) is praised by IGN for reviving the first-person shooter genre with its straightforward, high-intensity gameplay that has influenced subsequent titles. DOOM’s impact on revitalizing the FPS genre is recognized, with its straightforward, action-packed gameplay standing out in a market previously dominated by multiplayer-focused titles.
Innovative and Narrative-Driven Games
The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe expands on the original game’s narrative-driven, expectation-subverting gameplay with new content that satirizes the gaming industry’s trends like DLC.
Outer Wilds presents a unique exploration-based adventure where players unravel a time-loop mystery across a dynamically changing solar system.
Disco Elysium stands out for transforming traditional CRPG mechanics into a detective noir setting, featuring rich dialogue and unique gameplay elements.
Standout Role-Playing and Strategy Games
Cyberpunk 2077 has significantly improved with updates and expansions, particularly the Phantom Liberty, enhancing its open-world experience with complex narratives and polished gameplay. Cyberpunk 2077‘s recovery from a troubled launch to become a noteworthy title on PC is acknowledged by IGN, emphasising the effectiveness of its ongoing updates and expansions.
Red Dead Redemption 2 on PC is lauded by IGN’s reviewer for its detailed open world and deep narrative, with the PC version adding even more content and customisation possibilities.
XCOM 2 evolves the tactical combat genre by adding layers of strategic depth and replayability through its War of the Chosen expansion and mod support.
Emerging and Evolving Favorites
Elden Ring is celebrated for expanding the open-world and souls-like genres with its vast, rewarding exploration and challenging combat.
Hades sets a high standard for the roguelike genre with its engaging combat, deep narrative, and rewarding gameplay loops.
IGN’s top spot goes to Baldur’s Gate 3 with its blend of old-school role-playing elements and modern design, offering an expansive and deeply immersive experience that has been critically acclaimed.
The 2024 selection by IGN reflects a diverse range of genres and styles, catering to various gaming preferences and showcasing the dynamic nature of the PC gaming landscape. Whether you prefer epic RPGs, intense strategy games, or innovative roguelikes, IGN’s 2024’s lineup promises something for every PC gamer.