The Best RPGs Released in 2024 So Far
In 2024, the gaming world is witnessing the arrival of some of the best RPGs ever made. With paralysis of choice being a real problem, this article aims to guide enthusiasts towards what we feel has been the best released in 2024 so far. These games not only highlight some fantastic breakthroughs and innovations, but also have pushed the bar higher for best-in-class expected from the genre going forward. From the revival of cherished franchises to the introduction of groundbreaking new titles, our exploration will shed light on why these games deserve a spot in every gamer’s collection and how they’re setting new standards for storytelling and gameplay.
Stellar Blade
Developed by the small yet impressive studio Shift Up, Stellar Blade launched exclusively for PlayStation 5 on April 24, 2024. This game quickly garnered attention due to its self proclaimed inspiration of the Nier franchise, and specifically Yoko Taro himself. Focusing heavily on defense-driven gameplay and precise parrying mechanics, players face off against over 48 types of Naytiba enemies, each boasting unique weapons and attack combos, making every encounter a test of skill and timing.
Story Synopsis
“Ravaged by strange, powerful creatures, Earth has been abandoned, and what is left of the decimated human race has fled to a Colony in outer space. After traveling from the Colony, 7th Airborne Squad member EVE arrives on the desolate remains of our planet with a clear-cut mission: to save humankind by reclaiming Earth from the Naytiba – the malevolent force that has devastated it. But as EVE tackles the Naytiba one-by-one, piecing together the mysteries of the past in the ruins of human civilization, she realizes that her mission is far from straightforward. In fact, almost nothing is as it seems… “
Reception and Critique
The game has been well-received, scoring an 8/10 with Forbes for its engaging combat and detailed worldbuilding, though it has been noted that the script could use improvement. The graphical fidelity, especially in character modeling, has been praised, enhancing the overall immersive experience. IGN gave it a 7/10 noting that a few frustrating mechanics prevented from it from becoming one of the best in the genre.
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Dragon’s Dogma 2 stands out as a narrative-driven open-world action RPG set in a richly detailed fantasy universe. Players take on the role of the Arisen, forming parties of up to four, including player-controlled characters and pawns skilled in various combat techniques. This sequel enhances interaction with characters whose reactions vary based on the player’s actions, adding a layer of depth and consequence to the gameplay.
Unique Features and Character Customization
The game allows the creation and customization of the Arisen and their main pawn, with options to design up to five of each. Notably, some player-created pawns become official pawns that other players can recruit, fostering a dynamic player community. The introduction of five new vocations—Archer, Thief, Mystic Spearhand, Trickster, and Warfarer—broadens the tactical options available to players.
A new fast travel system featuring oxcarts allows players to swiftly move between discovered locations. This system also introduces an option to ‘close your eyes’ to speed up travel, enhancing gameplay fluidity. Additionally, setting up campsites not only serves as recovery points but also as strategic hubs where players can interact with their pawns to discuss tactics and story developments.
Reception
Dragon’s Dogma 2 has garnered high praise from a number of notable publications, including a 95/100 from Easy Allies, 90/100 from God is a Geek, and an 87/100 from RPGFan. Many of the game’s unique mechanics and features have been discussed at length on social media, making it one of the most talked about games of 2024.
Unicorn Overlord
Developed by Vanillaware and published by Atlus and Sega, Unicorn Overlord is a visually stunning strategy role-playing game (SRPG) with real-time strategy elements, released on multiple platforms including Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 on March 8, 2024. This game utilizes a tactics-based gameplay mechanic where players direct units across various maps, each with specific objectives and time limits. Not just about battling, the game also features a rich story of good versus evil, enhanced by Rapport conversations that develop as characters fight alongside each other.
Gameplay Mechanics and Strategy
Units in Unicorn Overlord operate on Stamina Points, which deplete with each subsequent combat; once depleted, units must rest to regain their strength. The game’s strategic depth is further enriched by the Leader Skills unique to each class, encouraging players to experiment with different unit compositions. Additionally, the battle system incorporates a complex rock-paper-scissors mechanic with various unit types, each harboring specific strengths and weaknesses, which adds a layer of tactical planning.
Visuals and Reception
Vanillaware’s signature artistic style shines, making it one of the most visually impressive SRPGs. The game’s aesthetics are complemented by an excellent English script and voice acting, which bring the narrative to life. Despite its ease on lower difficulties, the game has been critically acclaimed, receiving a 9/10 from both Nintendo World Report and PC Magazine.
Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and published by Sega, infinite Wealth is the ninth mainline entry in the Like a Dragon series, released on January 26, 2024. This turn-based strategy RPG is set in multiple locations such as Ijincho in Yokohama and Honolulu City in Hawaii. Continuing to follow the adventures of Ichiban Kasuga and Kazuma Kiryu, the storyline revolves around Kasuga’s quest to find his biological mother in Hawaii, where fate leads him to cross paths with Kiryu, who is battling lung cancer.
Combat and Minigames
The biggest highlight of the latest Yakuza title is the incredible turn-based combat system. The team at RGG Studio improved upon their first adventure into turn-based combat with a hybrid tactics and strategy styled approach. Add in multiple class types across 10 different characters and you get a system that can be played in hundreds of different ways. A plethora of minigames also returns, alongside new additions like Crazy Delivery and Miss Match. A significant side activity is Dondoko Island, where players manage their own resort island, adding a strategic layer to the gameplay.
Reception and Impact
Upon release, Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth set a high standard for RPGs in 2024, becoming one of the best-selling games of the year. The game received high critical reception as well, earning a 10/10 from both RPG Site and Tech Radar.
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
When Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth released on February 29, 2024, it not only became the front runner for best game in 2024, but it also deserves to be in the conversation for best RPG ever made. This sequel not only follows the large footsteps left by Remake, but also introduces significant enhancements that somehow only improved what was an all-time experience.
Gameplay and System Innovations
The game retains the core combat system from its predecessor but adds the new Synergy ability system, enhancing strategic depth. Moreover, the Materia system has been revamped, incorporating a Sphere Grid system similar to that in Final Fantasy X, which allows for more nuanced character development as XP is gathered. Rebirth assumes a certain familiarity with the original game but expands the story and character development beyond expectations. Players who have experienced the original will appreciate the additional context and depth provided in this sequel, making it a fulfilling continuation of the beloved story.
High Praise
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has received almost universal praise, averaging a 92 on MetaCritic and receiving dozens of perfect scores across the board. The experience has been such a revelatory experience that our podcast has an ongoing 8 part series with episodes devoted to analysis of each of the fantastic regions of the game.
Conclusion
Through a detailed exploration of this year’s standout RPG titles, from the nostalgic revival of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth to the innovative gameplay of Unicorn Overlord, it’s evident that the RPG genre is not just alive but thriving with creativity and diversity. Each game, with its unique narrative, gameplay mechanics, and technological advancements, contributes significantly to enriching the gaming experience for players around the world. These titles have not only set new benchmarks for storytelling and gameplay but also showcased the evolving capabilities of modern gaming platforms.
The significance of these releases extends beyond mere entertainment, shaping the future of RPGs and influencing upcoming titles. As these games push the boundaries of what is possible within the genre, they invite both players and developers to imagine new worlds and experiences. The collective impact of these innovations will likely inspire further advancements and continue to drive the RPG genre forward. For enthusiasts and newcomers alike, the current landscape of RPGs offers a rich tapestry of worlds to explore, stories to experience, and adventures to embark upon, marking 2024 as a pivotal year for the genre.
