A Surprisingly Increased Chaos: Why 2024’s Disruptive Videogame Year Had Us Winning

A Weird Year, Indeed?

As I reflect on the past year, I’ve come to realize that 2024 was unlike any other. Gone were the days of a single, all-consuming gaming behemoth that dominated the gaming landscape. Instead, I found myself bouncing between a staggering 35 new releases, each with its own unique charm and quirks.

A Year of Niche Games

Perhaps the most striking aspect of 2024 was the proliferation of niche games. Games that might have otherwise flown under the radar, like UFO 50, Satisfactory, and Thank Goodness You’re Here!, found an audience and thrived. I, for one, discovered a new love for automation games and British romps.

The Steam Deck Effect

Of course, the Steam Deck played a significant role in my gaming habits this year. Being able to play games on the go, especially during a 14-hour flight, was a game-changer. I’m sure it’s no coincidence that I finished Metaphor: ReFantazio during that trip.

The Year of Fragmentation

So, was 2024 a bad year for gaming? I think not. Instead, it was a year of fragmentation, where gamers were free to explore a wide range of genres and styles. No single game dominated the conversation, allowing us to appreciate the diversity of the gaming landscape.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we look to the future, I’m excited to see what 2025 has in store. With the likes of Monster Hunter Wilds, Civilization 7, and Assassin’s Creed Shadows on the horizon, it’s likely that the hype train will be back in full swing. But I’ll secretly be missing the vibes of 2024’s fragmented gaming landscape.

Games of the Year

So, what were my Games of the Year? Honestly, I’m still undecided. I loved playing games like Palworld, Helldivers 2, and Webfishing, but I also appreciated the underdogs like UFO 50 and Thank Goodness You’re Here!. In the end, it’s a testament to the diversity of the gaming landscape that I can’t pinpoint a single game as my absolute favorite.

Conclusion

2024 may not have had a single, all-encompassing gaming behemoth, but it was a year that celebrated diversity and niche gaming. And for that, I’m grateful.