Blue's Favorite Games of 2024
- Nathaniel Hope
- Dec 31, 2024
- 19 min read
Updated: Feb 10
Greetings, everyone! As the twelve months of 2024 draw to a close, the pages of this year are about to turn, making way for the new chapter that is 2025. It's in moments like these that I enjoy taking a step back to reflect on the journey of the past year—the challenges, the triumphs, and, most importantly, the video games.
Video games are my lifeblood—my bread and butter, the peanut butter to my jelly. They’re an incredible art form that blends fantasy and reality, creating experiences that transport us to unimaginable worlds. Through games, we find awe, beauty, and wonder, connecting with stories and moments that ignite our imaginations. This year, I had the chance to play a wide variety of games, completing many and savoring the unique adventures they offered. As I looked back on these experiences, I realized it’s been a while since I shared a list of my favorite games. The last time I did this was back in the shadowy depths of 2020. But let’s not dwell on that—we’ve come a long way since then! So, let’s get to it. What games did I play? Which ones did I finish? And, most importantly, which were my favorites? Join me as we dive in and take a look at Blue’s favorite games of 2024!
Fallout 76
Played on PC & Steam Deck
When Fallout 76 was first announced in 2018, I was ecstatic. A multiplayer Fallout experience you could enjoy with friends? It sounded like a dream come true. But as we all know, reality hit hard when the game launched in November of that year. Reviews were scathing, the game was riddled with bugs, and it felt hollow and incomplete. Add to that the infamous canvas bag scandal—a misstep that left many fans, myself included, questioning Bethesda's priorities—and my excitement quickly turned to disinterest. It's been that way for a long time. For years, even. I stayed far away from Fallout 76, despite hearing about updates and expansions that slowly transformed the game into something closer to its original intended vision. All that negativity was just too much and I wanted nothing to do with it.
Well, fast forward six years later and I found that everything changed when I got my hands on a Steam Deck. I was looking for something new and different to play, and the Fallout 76 community had started to turn a corner, with more and more players praising the game’s improvements. Curiosity got the better of me, and I decided it was finally time to venture into Appalachia.
At first, it was...strange. Nothing about the game really stood out. It didn’t “wow” me, and yet I kept coming back. Wandering the Appalachian wasteland, scavenging, looting, shooting, and exploring—it became part of my nightly routine. I’d sit in bed with my Steam Deck, roaming the world before turning out the lights. After nearly 30 hours, I still wasn’t entirely sold on it. I even told The Paradigm community, “I’ve spent nearly 30 hours playing Fallout 76 lately, and it’s been somewhat fun. It’s strange because I’m not really blown away by it. Nothing about it really stands out. I haven’t had a ‘wow’ moment. But I have been enjoying my time wandering Appalachia. It’s been relaxing. I think the game is scratching an itch I didn’t know I needed or wanted. Some of the tasks are mindless—going from point A to point B—but sometimes that’s all you really need.”
Then, something shifted. A couple of months later, I shared an update with my community: “108.3 hours in and at level 61. I think I may be committed now.” I don't know if it was because of my nightly routine, or what, because by this point, the game had completely drawn me in. The world, the landscapes, the lore, the music, the gameplay, the story, the character customization—it all just "clicked". The base-building mechanics added a layer of creativity that kept me engaged, and the expansions added depth and richness to the overall experience. Fast forward to today, I'm now at level 86 and have spent over 160 hours in Fallout 76 this year. Pretty wild, right?
Bethesda deserves credit for turning what was once a disaster into a game that stands proudly as part of the Fallout series. I came so close to missing out on this experience entirely because of its rocky start and Bethesda’s initial missteps. But the game’s transformation proves that sometimes, even the bleakest beginnings can lead to something worthwhile. If it weren’t for my Steam Deck—a truly incredible system—I might never have given Fallout 76 a chance. And now, against all odds, it’s earned a spot as one of my favorite games of 2024.
Dying Light
Played on PC & Steam Deck
Originally released on all major platforms in 2015, Dying Light was one of those games I thought had a neat concept but just didn’t "click" for me. Which is a bit surprising, considering my love for zombie games. This one wasn’t just another entry in the genre, either—it had unique elements that set it apart. But for some reason, I didn’t fully realize its brilliance until 2024, a full nine years after its release.
You might notice a pattern here: many games I initially passed on or didn’t quite connect with have found their way back to me in 2024, all thanks to the Steam Deck. Handheld gaming has completely reshaped how I approach my backlog. There's something intimate and personal about playing on a portable system—holding the game in your hands, focusing entirely on the experience, and having the freedom to play anywhere, untethered from the living room or a desk. The Steam Deck has been a game-changer for me in rediscovering old favorites and hidden gems.
When it comes to Dying Light, I originally picked it up on PlayStation 4 shortly after its launch. Unfortunately, I didn’t make it very far—and to this day, I’m not entirely sure why. Part of the problem may have been timing. I have a memory of playing the game while my wife watched, as we often share gaming experiences together. However, when the night hunters showed up, it quickly became a "nope" moment for her. Those nighttime sequences, with their tense atmosphere and grotesque deaths, were too intense. Wanting to keep gaming a fun and comfortable experience for both of us, I decided not to play it while she was around.
Of course, other games came out and stole my attention, as they often do, and Dying Light ended up sitting on the shelf, collecting dust. That was the story for years—until I stumbled across Dying Light: Definitive Edition in the Steam Store. It was on sale for $9.99 and fully verified for the Steam Deck. At that price, how could I resist? The prospect of playing it handheld was too good to pass up. I bought it on the spot and jumped in, ready to give this zombie adventure another chance.
Playing Dying Light on the Steam Deck was an incredible experience. Like my time with Fallout 76, I found myself lying in bed, exploring the vast open world of Harran for a few hours each night. This time, I committed fully to the journey, completing the base game and all of its DLC. By the time the credits rolled, I had logged nearly 50 hours—and I was hooked. To put it simply, Dying Light is unlike any other zombie game I’ve ever played. It’s not just about fighting hordes of the undead; it’s about surviving in a world that feels alive and unpredictable. The first-person perspective immerses you in fast-paced parkour mechanics, letting you climb, run, and leap across rooftops with exhilarating fluidity. The open world is massive, seamless, and packed with detail, with virtually no loading times to break the immersion. Add to that the in-depth weapon crafting system, a thrilling (and sometimes downright wild) story, and the adrenaline-pumping danger of nighttime gameplay, and you have a game that stands out even years after its release.
Thanks to the Steam Deck, I was finally able to give this game the chance it deserved. And now, in 2024, Dying Light has earned its place as one of my favorite gaming experiences of the year.
Silent Hill 2 Remake
Played on PC & Steam Deck
Silent Hill is a franchise that holds a special place in my heart, and Silent Hill 2 is one of the most impactful games I’ve ever played. I’ve written extensively about my connection to this game in a previous reflection, where I dive deep into its emotional and personal resonance. If you’re curious to explore that, you can check it out here.
When Konami announced the remake, I was skeptical. Silent Hill 2 is such a deeply personal experience for so many, myself included, that the idea of recreating its magic felt impossible. It’s a game that’s practically perfect in its original form—how do you improve on that? Like the remakes of Resident Evil 4 and Dead Space, I had my doubts. But to my surprise, the Silent Hill 2 remake delivered in spectacular fashion. It exceeded my expectations, expanding the universe while staying true to its roots. From the very beginning, I knew the project would require a thoughtful, creative approach to succeed. With Team Silent—the original developers—disbanded after Silent Hill 4: The Room, the responsibility fell to Bloober Team. When I learned that Bloober Team, the studio behind Layers of Fear, Observer, Blair Witch, and The Medium, would helm the remake, my cautious optimism turned into genuine excitement. Having experienced The Medium firsthand during a live Twitch stream, I knew they had the talent and vision to tackle such a monumental task.
After walking this new journey, I can confidently say that Konami and Bloober Team accomplished the impossible. They didn’t just remake Silent Hill 2—they reimagined it. The result is an experience that stands on its own while paying homage to the original. For me, this wasn’t just a game—it was an unforgettable journey.
Dead Space 2
Played on the Steam Deck
After finishing the Silent Hill 2 remake, I decided to dive into a game I had surprisingly never played: Dead Space 2. It’s odd, considering how much I loved the first game. The original Dead Space felt like Resident Evil in space, with its over-the-shoulder perspective, hordes of terrifying monsters, unique sci-fi weapons, and an engaging story. It had everything going for it. You’d think I’d have jumped right into the sequel, right? Well, not quite. One of the things I loved about the first game was how Isaac Clarke, the protagonist, was a silent character. Much like Link in The Legend of Zelda, Isaac’s silence allowed me to project myself into the story. It made the experience deeply personal and terrifying, as my imagination filled in the gaps while navigating the eerie halls of the USG Ishimura. The silent protagonist approach felt intentional and immersive. So when I first tried Dead Space 2 and discovered that Isaac now had a voice, I was taken aback.
While I don’t think it was a bad decision, it felt jarring at the time. I couldn’t quite connect with this more vocal version of Isaac. Whether it was his demeanor, attitude, or simply my own expectations, something didn’t click for me. As a result, I shelved the game, thinking I’d return to it when the time felt right. But that “right time” didn’t come for years, and the game sat collecting dust.
Fast forward to 2023, when the Dead Space remake was announced. As a fan of the original, I knew I had to check it out. To my surprise, the remake introduced a voiced Isaac Clarke. Initially, I found this strange, but I soon realized it was a brilliant choice. It gave the remake a fresh perspective and added a layer of depth to the narrative while still respecting the original’s legacy. The verdict? I absolutely loved it. That experience encouraged me to finally give Dead Space 2 the chance it deserved. And I’m so glad I did. The sequel not only retained the tension and gameplay that made the first game special but also expanded upon its universe in meaningful ways. The shift from the claustrophobic corridors of a derelict spaceship to the sprawling, atmospheric colony on Titan’s moon gave the game an even grander scope.
Isaac’s voice, which initially felt like a departure, ultimately brought a new dimension to the story. It added emotional weight to his journey, making his struggles and resilience all the more compelling. The narrative felt richer, the lore deeper, and the gameplay just as satisfying as I remembered from the first game. I couldn’t put it down. For all these reasons, Dead Space 2 has earned its place among my favorite games of 2024.
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Played on the Nintendo Switch
After finishing Dead Space 2, I almost dove right into Dead Space 3. But I realized I needed a break from the relentless tension of back-to-back horror games. Constant exposure to jump scares and adrenaline-pumping environments can be a bit much. Luckily, my wife had just finished The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom for the Nintendo Switch, and I decided it was the perfect time to explore the depths of Hyrule with this new entry. I’m so glad I made that choice because Echoes of Wisdom has quickly become my favorite game of 2024.
This latest installment in the Zelda series is, without a doubt, one of the most unique and thoughtful entries I’ve ever played. And let’s be honest—it’s just plain fun. For the first time ever, you actually get to play as Zelda. (And no, those old CD-i games don’t count!) Initially, not being Link felt a bit strange. The slower pace and more strategic gameplay took some adjusting to. As Zelda, you’re not swinging a sword or hacking through hordes of enemies. Instead, the game encourages you to rely on wit and strategy, particularly with the new Tri Rod.
The Tri Rod is a fascinating tool that allows you to replicate items and summon enemies at will. While daunting at first, the game trusts you to figure things out on your own. It doesn’t hold your hand but gives you just enough guidance to get started. This sense of freedom is one of the game’s greatest strengths. There’s no single “right” way to approach puzzles or defeat enemies. The flexibility in how you can tackle challenges kept me constantly asking, “Can I use that?” or “I wonder if this will work?” The last time I felt this sense of curiosity and experimentation was with Breath of the Wild. Somehow, Nintendo has struck lightning twice, creating a game that feels both similar and entirely fresh. Echoes of Wisdom challenges you to think outside the box, rewarding creativity in a way few games do. What makes this experience even better is how personal it feels. My wife and I often compared how we approached the same puzzles or bosses, and 90% of the time, our solutions were completely different. That’s the brilliance of this game—its open-ended design encourages players to solve problems in their own way, making every playthrough feel unique.
Beyond the gameplay, the story is just as remarkable. Nintendo has expanded the Zelda lore in exciting ways, adding depth while honoring the series’ rich history through subtle nods and details. Every quest and exploration reveals something meaningful, tying this new Hyrule to its storied past. And let’s talk about the art style—it’s absolutely adorable and wholesome, perfectly complementing the tone of the game. It’s the kind of aesthetic that makes you want to curl up on the couch on a rainy day and lose yourself in its imaginative world. When I finished Echoes of Wisdom, I was overwhelmed with emotion. It’s rare for a game to hit all the right notes so perfectly, but this one did. From the gameplay to the story to the sheer joy of discovery, it’s a masterpiece. As much as I loved the Silent Hill 2 remake, I have to give the top spot on my 2024 list to The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom. It’s that good. If you haven’t played it yet, do yourself a favor and dive in.
Honorable Mentions
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King
Played on the Steam Deck with the Dolphin Emulator
Does anyone remember Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King? Released in 2008 as a WiiWare game, it was part of Nintendo’s push into the realm of digital downloads—a novel concept at the time. The Nintendo Wii stood out with its unique WiiWare titles, offering players new gaming experiences directly to their consoles. Unfortunately, My Life as a King never saw a physical release or a port beyond the Wii, which made it feel like a hidden gem lost to time.
But thanks to the wonders of emulation and the incredible work of the emulation community, this charming classic can still be enjoyed today. With the Dolphin emulator and the versatility of the Steam Deck, I was able to relive this experience—and it felt like rediscovering a piece of my childhood.
For those unfamiliar, My Life as a King offers a wholesome and relaxing take on the Final Fantasy universe. You play as a young king tasked with rebuilding your kingdom from the ground up. The land is a blank slate, and it’s your job to manage resources, construct buildings, and care for the well-being of your citizens. Adventurers must be hired and sent into the wilds to gather resources and defeat threats, creating a unique gameplay loop that blends kingdom management with light RPG elements.
What stood out to me then—and still does now—is how this game diverges from the typical Final Fantasy formula. It’s not about wielding swords or summoning Bahamut; it’s about building a thriving community and watching it flourish. It’s wholesome, adorable, and incredibly satisfying to play, offering a sense of calm that’s hard to find in gaming. Playing this again on the Steam Deck was an absolute treat, especially with upscaled graphics that brought the game’s charm to life in a whole new way. Revisiting My Life as a King felt like a reunion with an old friend, reminding me of what made this game so magical in the first place.
While it might not have made my top list for 2024, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a King deserves a special mention for reigniting that same sense of wonder I felt back in 2008. If you have a chance to experience it—whether for the first time or as a nostalgic revisit—I highly recommend giving it a go.
Half-Life
Played on the Steam Deck
Half-Life has always been one of those games that felt just out of reach for me. When it was released in 1998, I was 13 years old, and PC gaming was a new and unfamiliar concept. At the time, our family computer was shared by everyone, and I had no understanding of upgrading components to make games run properly. Consoles were simpler and more accessible, so that’s where my gaming journey stayed for a long time. It wasn’t until 26 years later that I finally played Half-Life from start to finish, and the circumstances that led me there were, to say the least, unique. A power outage left me at home with no electricity and plenty of unexpected free time. Fortunately, I had a fully charged Steam Deck—and on it, a downloaded copy of Half-Life, which I had intended to try someday. That rainy, powerless day turned out to be the perfect opportunity.
Though I missed the chance to experience Half-Life during its original release, I was well aware of its legendary status. For years, I’ve read about its reputation as one of the greatest FPS games of all time. Finally playing it for myself, I now understand why it’s so revered. What struck me most is the level of detail and world-building Valve achieved, especially for a game that’s over two decades old. The Black Mesa Research Facility, the central setting, masterfully blends realism with science fiction. Valve created a universe that feels grounded and relatable while simultaneously introducing fantastical and otherworldly elements. The result is an immersive experience that still feels fresh and innovative today.
It’s no exaggeration to say that Half-Life revolutionized the FPS genre. Before its release, first-person shooters were often straightforward action games, largely inspired by Doom and Quake. These games prioritized shooting everything in sight, with simple puzzles sprinkled in, and left narrative depth as an afterthought. Half-Life, however, changed everything. It introduced storytelling and character development into the genre, making FPS games more immersive and thought-provoking. It’s clear how Half-Life set new standards that influenced countless games in the years to follow. Playing Half-Life after all this time gave me a deep appreciation for how far gaming has come—and how much this game contributed to that journey.
My admiration for it has grown immensely, and it’s easy to see why it’s regarded as a turning point in gaming history. This experience not only deserves a spot as an honorable mention but has also inspired me to continue exploring this legendary series. Perhaps Half-Life 2 will find its way onto my list of gaming adventures for 2025.
Metroid Planets
Fan Mod played on the Steam Deck
The Metroid series has always held a special place in my heart, with Super Metroid reigning as my favorite game of all time. That’s why Metroid Planets, a fan-made reimagining of the original Metroid from 1986, captivated me from the moment I discovered it. While it visually resembles the NES classic, Metroid Planets is far from a simple ROM hack. It’s a complete reimplementation built from the ground up to overcome the limitations of the NES, offering a fresh and enhanced experience while staying true to the spirit of the original.
This reimagining introduces numerous quality-of-life improvements that elevate the game significantly. Samus animates more fluidly, particle effects add visual flair, and the environments feature multi-directional scrolling, something the NES could never achieve. The game also includes a built-in map—a lifesaver for navigating the labyrinthine corridors of Planet Zebeth (Planet Zebes was originally known as Zebeth in the original Metroid, but was changed to Zebes starting with Metroid II)—and an updated soundtrack with orchestral arrangements of the original’s iconic music, though purists can switch to the classic 8-bit tracks. Perhaps the most welcome additions are the save system and health retention when resuming the game, making Metroid Planets far more approachable than its NES counterpart.
The name Metroid Planets is fitting, as the game introduces multiple maps. Planet Zebeth faithfully recreates the original Metroid, which is the version I played, but there’s also Planet Novus—a completely new map with original bosses, areas, and challenges, essentially creating an entirely new game within this fan project. The developers even added Planet Enigma, a Metroid room creator and map generator that allows players to craft their own unique Metroid adventures. The ingenuity and passion of the community behind this project are truly remarkable.
For anyone who played the original Metroid back in the day, you’ll know how punishing it could be. Traversing the treacherous corridors of Planet Zebeth was a brutal experience, with endless grinding to refill health and constant danger from enemies that seemed impossible to dodge. While the original game remains a classic with its own nostalgic charm, it’s also undeniably dated and often frustrating. Over the years, ROM hacks have attempted to improve upon it, with Metroid: Mother being one of the standout examples. But Metroid Planets takes things to a whole new level.
Playing Metroid Planets felt like rediscovering Metroid for the very first time. Samus controls beautifully, with precision and fluidity that transform the gameplay into something extraordinary. The enhancements made her feel more vibrant and alive, and the experience was so compelling that I played through the entire game in one sitting—a first for me when it comes to the original Metroid title. The joy of exploring Planet Zebeth with all its refinements and modern updates was truly unforgettable. And knowing that there’s even more content being developed by the community, from new planets to creative tools like Planet Enigma, fills me with excitement for the future of this project.
Metroid Planets is a love letter to the series and a must-play for fans of the franchise. It breathes new life into a timeless classic while honoring its legacy, and that’s why it absolutely deserves an honorable mention.
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Played on the Steam Deck with the Duckstation Emulator
As a Metroid fan, it’s no surprise that I also love Castlevania. The two franchises share a unique bond through their gameplay style, so much so that the term "Metroidvania" has come to define the very essence of what makes them special: interconnected worlds, nonlinear exploration, and a gradual progression tied to unlocking new abilities. These elements create a sense of adventure and discovery that has captivated players for decades.
Among all the Castlevania games I’ve played—spanning the NES, GBA, and DS titles—there’s always been one that loomed above the rest: Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. Frequently hailed as one of the greatest games of all time, its reputation is legendary. Yet, for reasons I can’t fully explain, I never played it from start to finish until this year. Maybe it was the overwhelming praise or its seemingly untouchable status as the pinnacle of the series. I feared that my expectations might be too high, leaving me disappointed. So, while I explored the likes of Castlevania 64 (a personal favorite), Dawn of Sorrow, and the original NES trilogy, Symphony of the Night remained out of reach, perched high on a pedestal.
That all changed in December when my wife and I were preparing for the birth of our daughter. Amidst the procedures, waiting, and anticipation at the hospital, I brought along my Steam Deck to occupy the quieter moments. Something about this time felt right—almost serendipitous. I finally decided it was time to dive into Dracula’s castle and experience the legendary Symphony of the Night for myself.
From the moment I started, I understood why this game is so revered. Symphony of the Night is a masterpiece, blending atmospheric exploration, tight gameplay, and one of the best soundtracks in gaming. The sprawling castle, filled with secrets and enemies, is a joy to explore. The introduction of RPG elements—like leveling up, equipping gear, and experimenting with different abilities—adds depth without sacrificing the series' action roots. And of course, the inverted castle twist blew my mind. It was everything fans said it would be and more. The experience of playing this game became deeply personal for me. While my wife prepared to bring our daughter into the world, I found solace in the game’s dark, gothic atmosphere and methodical progression. It served as a security blanket of sorts, helping me stay grounded during an emotional and life-changing moment. In the days following my daughter’s birth, I completed the game—castle inverted and all—and it felt like the perfect capstone to an unforgettable experience.
I’m glad I waited to play Symphony of the Night when I did. The timing added a layer of meaning that I couldn’t have anticipated. This game will forever be intertwined with the memory of welcoming my daughter into the world, and that’s something truly special. It’s not just an amazing game; it’s a cherished moment in my life. For its timeless design, incredible gameplay, and the personal connection it gave me, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night absolutely deserves an honorable mention.
My gaming in 2024 conclusion
Looking back on all these experiences, it’s clear that gaming has been far more than just a hobby for me. Each of these titles, whether they made my top favorites or earned an honorable mention, represents a significant moment in my life. They’ve provided more than just fun—they’ve been a source of inspiration, comfort, and even a way to process life’s challenges. From the emotional depths of Silent Hill 2 helping me navigate personal struggles to the awe of discovering new worlds in Metroid Planets and the bittersweet joy of experiencing Castlevania: Symphony of the Night during one of the most important moments of my life, these games have left a lasting mark on me. They’ve shown me the power of storytelling, creativity, and shared experiences that resonate beyond the screen.
Gaming is a medium unlike any other. It’s a place where we can lose ourselves in fantastical worlds, but also find pieces of ourselves in their narratives and challenges. These games have shaped my journey not just as a player but as a person. They’ve connected me to cherished memories, important life events, and a deeper appreciation for the artistry and impact of this medium.
As I continue to play, explore, and share these experiences, I know that gaming will always hold a special place in my heart—a way to look back on where I’ve been and forward to what lies ahead. Thanks for reading.
Sincerely,
BlueNile101
I had forgotten you played the first Dying light this year and had never heard of the Final fantasy one to be honest. Good stuff sir! Onto the next reflection!