Hello there! 2024 is almost over and it has been quite the year in gaming, with some ups and downs. There have been new entries in long running franchises, revivals of classic titles and indie game standouts, alongside some under baked and poorly received titles. I have played a lot of games for this site over the year, so in this retrospective of the past 12 months, I will be sharing the 10 games I have enjoyed the most this year.
This list is in no particular order, with the titles included being those that I enjoyed the most, or provided an experience that had a significant impact on me. There will be a brief summary of each game, along with a few personal thoughts and a link to my review for them.
So with that being said, let’s get into my best of 2024 list.
Ufouria: The Saga 2/Hebereke 2
Developer – Sunsoft/Tasto Alpha
Publisher – Red Art Games
In a brand new adventure set in a world of felted arts and crafts, the penguin Hebe and his friends set out to save their world. This adventure is a mix of sequel and reboot of the original 1991 release, taking aspects of the original and adding new mechanics to create a new experience. This adventure features an interconnected world, procedurally generated stages and metroidvania style progression. One of the defining features of this game is the distinct cast of characters.
Hebereke 2 is the first game in the series in 20 years, and the first platformer featuring the beanie wearing penguin in over 30 years. This is one of the best platforming outings of the year, offering players an easy to enjoy adventure. The plot to the game is entertaining, with some self-aware comedy that enhances the enjoyment. As a soft reboot/sequel to the original, this is perfect for those who are after a fun and adorable adventure.
Ufouria: The Saga 2/Hebereke 2 is available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series and Steam. You can find links to the game and my review (HERE)
Iron Meat
Developer – Retroware
Publisher – Retroware
In the distant future, an apocalyptic event causes the Earth and Moon to be overrun by “The Meat”, an extra-terrestrial organic mass that mutates all in its path. To save the world, two elite soldiers are dispatched on a suicide mission to destroy the alien matter. In this arcade style run and gun, with 9 stages of gore filled chaos. Pulling inspiration from Contra, the fluid platform shooting, hordes of enemies and giant UBER MEAT bosses make for a satisfying platform shooter.
This is a satisfying run and gun shooter, with a ton of content to unlock and wall to wall gore. There is a lot of fun to be had, alone or with a friend, taking on the alien organism that seeks to take over the earth. The gameplay experience scratches that ultraviolent itch, providing an arcade style shooter that feels like it is right out of the 90s. There is a meaty amount of gameplay to sink your teeth into, with challenges, unlockable skins and bonus modes.
Iron Meat is available now on all console platforms and Steam. You can find links to the game and my review (HERE)
Peglin
Developer – Red Nexus Games
Publisher – Blitworks Games
This is a peggle inspired roguelike puzzle adventure, where the players take the role of the Peglin, a little goblin on a big adventure. As the Brave Peglin, go on an adventure through different zones, taking on enemies in turn based puzzle combat. The roguelike element comes into play with the upgrades, powers and abilities that are obtained during a run. There is a mix of Peggle and Pachinko, where the player uses orbs to destroy pegs to deal damage to enemies.
The puzzle combat makes Peglin unique, giving it depth and allowing it to stand out among the other puzzlers in the genre. This isn’t the longest game, but the random elements will make each attempt feel different. It can also be a good entry level roguelike, with a balanced challenge and plenty of replay value. Anyone and everyone can pick this game up, but it may be tough to put down, making you say “just one more go”.
Peglin is available on Nintendo Switch and Steam. You can find links to the game and my review (HERE)
Rainbow Cotton
Developer – Success Corp (original)/KRINKLEKATZ 3000 (remaster)
Publisher – ININ Games
The last of the original run of Cotton Games, Rainbow Cotton takes the scrolling shooting series into 3D for the first time. Take on a new on rails adventure with the witch Cotton, accompanied by her companion, the fairy Silk. This shooter is reminiscent of games like Panzer Dragoon, with the player controlling the crosshair rather than Cotton as she flies into the screen. There are 5 worlds to explore, with vivid environments, wacky enemies and imposing bosses.
This title is a real tough challenge, which will really test the skills of the player. There is the option of Classic and Remaster modes, with restored audio and video. All of these elements make this the definitive version of Rainbow Cotton for fans and new players. This release caps off the original Cotton series, before the series was rebooted. There are some minor issues with the game, which can be off-putting but is worth it for fans of the series.
Rainbow Cotton is available on all Platforms. You can find links to the game and my review, (HERE)
Princess Maker 2 Regeneration
Developer – Gainax (original)/Bliss Brain, Monkey Craft (Remake)
Publisher – Bliss Brain
The cult childrearing simulation makes a triumphant return on modern consoles, with visuals reworked by original Gainax artist, Takami Akai. Bestowed as a gift of the gods, the hero of a faraway kingdom becomes the father of daughter from the heavens. The hero is tasked with raising the young Olive into adulthood, set her schedule for work, education or adventuring. But careful planning is needed, as all choices will affect the destiny of Olive.
There are many endings for the player to experience, offering a good amount of replay value in a relatively simple experience. The redrawn artwork and new content from Takami Akai, is for the 30th anniversary of the original release, celebrating the legacy of the game. Princess Maker 2 regeneration is a delightful childrearing sim, deserving of its cult status. The presentation, story twists and overall experience makes it perfect for cosy evenings.
Princess Maker 2 Regeneration is available for Nintendo Switch, Steam and PlayStation 4/5. Links to the game and my review can be found (HERE). Please note, the Playstation version of the game has some content censored out.
UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes
Developer – FRENCH-BREAD, Arc System Works
Publisher – Arc System Works
The popular anime fighter gets a brand new entry, following on from the events of the previous game, a whole new threat arises. With a base roster of 24 characters, alongside 3 DLC fighters, this 1-on-1 fighter provides fast paced combat and stunning visuals. The systems have been refined from the previous releases, providing smoother and more balanced gameplay. There is also a comprehensive suite of game modes, offering something for everyone.
This is a solid step up from the previous iterations, offering a deep fighting experience that is easy to pick up, but challenging to master. This is perfect for players looking for a new fighter, as this is not your typical button basher. The character designs have that distinct anime style, which is prevalent in games from FRENCH-BREAD. The expanded roster of fighters, enhanced moves and cinematic special attacks breathe new life into the series.
UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes is available for PlayStation 4/5, Nintendo Switch and Steam. Links to the game and the my review can be found (HERE)
Clock Tower: Rewind
Developer – Human Entertainment (Original)/ WayForward, Limited Run Games (Remaster)
Publisher – WayForward, Limited Run Games
One of the progenitors of the survival horror finally made an official western release. This legendary SNES point and click horror has been officially translated, with brand new materials and restored content. The player must survive the nightmare of the Barrows Mansion, investigating the different areas and solve puzzles, while avoiding the deadly Scissorman. Containing multiple endings, there is plenty for players to sink their teeth into.
The revival runs on the Carbon Engine, which works perfectly, allowing quality of life improvements to be made. This is alongside the new opening theme/animation, dubbed motion comics and a special interview with the creator of Clock Tower. All of these additions make this experience a must for fans of Clock Tower, who may have only been able to play a fan translation. It also keeps this game accessible for those who want to play it officially.
Clock Tower: Rewind is available on all platforms. Links to the game and my review can be found (HERE)
Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered
Developer – Grasshopper Manufacture
Publisher – NetEase Games
The darkly comic action adventure, wrapped in a grindhouse horror aesthetic from Suda51, Shinji Mikami and Akira Yamaoka has been revived from the dead. Take on the hordes of hell as Garcia Hotspur, the demon hunter who sets out to rescue his love Paula from the Lord of Hell. In this third person action shooter, take on the demonic horde, grotesque bosses and the darkness itself. All of this is wrapped in bloody violence, obscenity filled dialogue and the BIG BONER.
As a remaster, this hits all of the marks and provides a good experience. But it is elevated with a New Game Plus mode, special cosmetic items and enhanced controls. This makes for the best way to play the game, as it was previously only available on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. Now you can experience the hellish journey through hell at home or on the go. While getting a kick out of the dark humor, risqué imagery and plenty of dick jokes, if that’s your bag.
Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered is available on all platforms. Links to the game and my review can be found (HERE)
Mika and the Witch’s Mountain
Developer – Chibig, Nukefist
Publisher – Chibig
Embark on a journey to Mount Gaun as Mika, a young apprentice witch who wishes to learn under Mistress Olagari. She is sent from the summit to the island below and breaking her broom, now she must find a way back up the mountain. To achieve this goal, take on delivery challenges and interact with the residents of the island, earning money to fix her broom. Fly across the open island, taking in the landscape, delivering packages and making friends along the way.
This is a magical adventure, inspired by the classic Studio Ghibli film Kiki’s Delivery Service. Taking the concept of a delivery witch and translating it to gaming well, capturing the whimsy and magic perfectly. This is a cosy experience, perfect for those who want to lose themselves in an adventure. The developer is also working on new content, with their first mini expansion being a wonderful addition. Alongside more content planned for the future.
Mika and the Witch’s Mountain is available on Nintendo Switch and Steam. Links to the game and my review can be found (HERE)
Ys X: Nordics
Developer – Nihon Falcom
Publisher – NIS America
Set sail across Obelia Gulf in the latest mainline Ys title, taking place during the early years of Adol Christin’s adventures. This title completely reinvents the long running action RPG series, offering a whole new combat system, sailing mechanics and upgrade tree. The story can really pull you in, providing a narrative that is engaging throughout. This is enhanced by the dual protagonists, as you become attached to both during the adventure.
This is likely my best game of the year, and the best Ys game I have played. The combat is buttery smooth, with a reactive and satisfying snap during battle. Then we have the two playable characters, who replace the traditional party, giving it an entirely new feeling. The fast paced action, fun ship combat, massive world and expertly crafted narrative, all come together perfectly. I will definitely return to this game to relive the story time and time again.
Ys X: Nordics is available on PlayStation 4/5, Nintendo Switch and Steam. Links to the game and my review can be found (HERE). There will also be a special enhanced version of the game releasing in Japan in 2025, and I hope it will also be released to the west too.
So that wraps up my best of 2024 list. All of the games listed here are the ones I enjoyed the most during the last 12 months, with several games that sadly didn’t make the cut. I am thankful for everyone that has taken the time to check out my coverage, and I hope that you continue to stop by and see what I have coming in the future. There are plans for even more content to come in the next year, expanding more than just reviews and occasional news releases, so stay tuned.
From me to you, I wish you a Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and a good 2025.
W.Kohaku Media 