Top 7 Video games to play in 2024 (so far)

Gamers finished 2023 with incredibly high expectations for the new year, as the last one delivered countless memorable games that are already considered classics. Alan Wake, Baldur's Gate 3, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom have secured their place among the all-time best. With 2024 just beginning, many wondered if this year could match the caliber of its predecessor.

However, the early months of 2024 are proving that great games continue to emerge regardless of the calendar. While only a quarter through the year, we have already lost over 100 hours to Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth's captivating open world. Helldivers 2 challenged me in creative ways with each playthrough, and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth featured a surprisingly catchy dog side quest that stuck in our heads.

While the calendar may be new, great games continue to arrive. So whether playing on PC, console, or mobile, get ready to dive into these 7 top titles that 2024 has delivered in its first months. Buckle up as more excellence in gaming undoubtedly lies ahead in the coming years.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
The game represents the pinnacle of the beloved Yakuza franchise, blending the intense brawling of past titles with unexpected levity. Players control both series veteran Kazuma Kiryu and the enthusiastic Ichiban Kasuga in parallel storylines. Fans eager for expansive content will find it in abundance, from over-the-top skirmishes to myriad interactive distractions that feel ripped from Animal Crossing.

Persona 3 Reload
At first glance, Persona 3 Reload may seem like a straight remake of the beloved 2006 game. However, this remastered version breathes new life into the beloved classic, modernizing the presentation through significantly improved graphics and stylish character designs. The enhancements help showcase why the original title played such an pivotal role in elevating the Persona series to popularity. While staying faithful to the deeply engrossing storyline and turn-based combat that fans adored, Reload transports players back to the dark hour of Iwatodai through a refreshed lens that honors the impact of its predecessor.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
This masterpiece inevitably comes with layers of backstory, so let's break it down simply. As the sequel to 2020's beloved Final Fantasy VII Remake, Rebirth continues adapting the classic 1997 Final Fantasy VII for modern platforms. While the franchise and remakes may seem daunting if you're new, there's good reason millions eagerly awaited this title. The original Final Fantasy VII revolutionized RPGs and built a passionate following over the decades. By remodeling its legendary story for today, Remake established itself as one of the PlayStation's best games.

Rise of the Ronin
Developed by veteran studio Team Ninja, known for the Ninja Gaiden series, Rise of the Ronin transports players to feudal Japan amid political upheaval. The trailer alone reveals imaginative weapons like a flaming sword, making combat a visually stunning dance. However, Rise of the Ronin separates itself most from its peers through formidable foes even the hardest Elden Ring veterans may find daunting. While past clones fell flat, Rise of the Ronin shows early promise that it has absorbed the best of Sekiro's soul while putting its own distinctive spin on the stealth-action formula.

The Last of Us Pt. II Remastered
Fans of the acclaimed The Last of Us Part II received a welcomed gift in 2024 with an official remaster. Crafted for modern platforms like PlayStation 5, the new edition allows players to relive Ellie's emotionally-devasting journey with improved visuals and performance. Included is the original game's story DLC expanding on character moments. It also debuts a new "No Return" survivor mode designed as a randomized roguelike challenge for those seeking even more post-apocalyptic dangers.

Mario vs. Donkey Kong
The long-running series returns with its fifth entry, harkening back to its roots inspired by the original Donkey Kong arcade classic. Mario vs. Donkey Kong comes to modern consoles with significantly upgraded visuals and new features for both single and multiplayer enjoyment. Players navigate over 130 diverse levels while utilizing customizable "Mario Minis" - which are none other than Mini Marios joining the rescue effort. Local cooperative play also allows partners to tackle stages together.

Helldivers 2
The videogame channels the spirit of Paul Verhoeven's classic sci-fi parody Starship Troopers through its alien warfare. Developed as a cooperative multiplayer shooter, unexpected hilarity often emerges from unintended interactions just as in days past with Halo's plasma grenades. Players join a futuristic military unit tasked with invading bug-infested planets. However, the game's deceptively difficult gameplay and physics ensure death comes in creative and absurd ways.