In the top ten, there was a notable presence of Japanese influence, and for several projects, the ratings from critics and gamers varied significantly.
Dragon’s Dogma 2 elicited a range of reviews, from critical acclaim and player enjoyment to outright rejection by others who criticized the microtransactions and contentious decisions.
As the first quarter of 2024 draws to a close, it’s an opportune time to review the releases and their reception by critics and gamers alike. Typically, we refer to Metacritic scores as a benchmark. It’s well-known that critics’ scores on this platform often diverge from those of gamers. Nonetheless, it remains a substantial and thus relevant source of information on game project ratings. For added objectivity, we will also consider reviews on Steam.
Indeed, the results can be surprising in some instances. You won’t find the widely popular co-op game Helldivers 2 here, as it scored 83 from critics and 8 from gamers, averaging below the top ten on Metacritic. However, many niche Japanese games have ascended to the pinnacle of gamer affection.
And one more thing – the article will give ratings only for PC versions. Because, no matter how you look at it, the largest number of players has access to them.
Tekken 8
Critics | 90
Gamers | 8.3
Steam | “very positive”
Indeed, the latest Tekken installment was not released in the same year as the original Mortal Kombat. However, it was met with great acclaim from both long-time series enthusiasts and general fighting game fans. Nowadays, with fewer fighting games being released, most players are satisfied with the big three | Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, and Tekken. Considering Tekken 7 debuted in 2015, it’s commendable that the game remains vibrant and popular today.
Balatro
Critics | 90
Gamers | 8.9
Steam | “extremely positive”
We’ve made it – poker is now among the top two best games. Seriously, it’s a roguelike card game that resembles poker. The setting isn’t pronounced; it’s really just the gaming table where the roguelike magic occurs. Thus, the game is recommended for card enthusiasts, as mechanically, it’s likely one of the finest in its genre.
For gamers anticipating an experience akin to a modern video game, Balatro may not offer much allure. However, for those looking to pass the time, it can be quite engrossing.
Persona 3 Reload
Critics | 89
Gamers | 8.3
Steam | “extremely positive”
Persona 3 might not be the current favorite in the series, yet it enjoys significant popularity within the community. The series’ pervasive “Japanese” character is another aspect; personally, we find it challenging to engage with, despite recognizing the franchise’s appeal. However, does a game need universal acclaim? We believe not, and if critics and players alike have praised the reboot, there must be a valid reason. Truthfully, creating a successful remake of a game cherished by many is no simple feat.
Like a Dragon | Infinite Wealth
Critics | 89
Gamers | 8.6
Steam | “very positive”
The distinct “Japaneseness” once again tops the Metacritic charts. This is crucial for delivering a solid entry in a long-standing series without falling into monotonous self-repetition. If we are not mistaken, Infinite Wealth appears to be the ninth installment in the Yakuza series. Regardless of perspective, the Yakuza series has a dedicated fanbase, which seems to appreciate the latest game.
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Critics | 89
Gamers | 3.6
Steam | “mixed”
The second installment of Dragon’s Dogma is poised to be a major gaming highlight in 2024. Despite criticism for its optimization and controversial monetization, which some players find objectionable, the game generally receives no complaints regarding its gameplay and role-playing elements.
Players commend the combat system and boss encounters, particularly the ability to scale enemies and target different body parts. The quest sequences in cities and the implementation of the “helper” system are also well-received. It’s evident that the game’s playability has been meticulously crafted.
Nevertheless, Dragon’s Dogma has not been immune to criticism from gamers. A significant point of contention is the inability to restart the game with a new character, which seems to encourage paid transactions, such as those that allow for altering the hero’s appearance.
Horizon Forbidden West | Complete Edition
Critics | 88
Gamers | 7.9
Steam | “very positive”
Despite claims that the second installment of Horizon on PC didn’t perform as well as the first, its ratings on personal gaming platforms are fairly good. A decline in interest for sequels is not unusual. The original game created a buzz as a Sony exclusive, leading to anticipation for its PC release. With the sequel, it was widely anticipated that Sony would not postpone its PC release for long.
Sons of the Forest
Critics | 86
Gamers | 7.5
Steam | “very positive”
The second installment of the survival game faced criticism for being derivative and not introducing new concepts compared to its predecessor. This was attributed to the game’s year-long Early Access period. However, it officially released in February 2024 and has been well-received by critics and players alike.
On Steam, for instance, it boasts a 95% positive rating from players. This suggests that the majority appreciated Endnight Games studio’s efforts. Their formula for success was seemingly straightforward – improve upon the first game in small but significant ways. This approach has generally met with player satisfaction, even if a score of 7.5 isn’t particularly remarkable.
Remake of Solium Infernum
Critics | 85
Gamers | 7.6
Steam | “very positive”
The sole strategy game featured today is a turn-based affair. The original was released in 2009, and I regret not playing it. The remake shares the original’s title, so be mindful to avoid confusion. Players assume the role of an archdemon vying for the throne of hell, employing a mix of military might, magic, and the pursuit of prestige to achieve this end.
While we won’t delve into gameplay specifics, it’s worth noting that the remake has outshone the original in spectacle and introduced additional elements.
Prince of Persia | The Lost Crown
Critics | 84
Gamers | 8.6
Steam | NO
Admittedly, there were numerous reservations about this game. A protagonist who is not royalty, a vivid cartoonish aesthetic—indeed, it seemed more like a budget endeavor rather than a proper sequel to the series. The concerns were extensive. Yet, one might ponder—do we truly require another sequel from Ubisoft, given the variable quality of its recent offerings?
Nevertheless, The Lost Crown proved to be quite satisfactory, especially for those willing to overlook the absence of conventional 3D and who appreciate metroidvania elements. It emerged as a commendable and independent project, even if it may not be heralded as a direct continuation of the series.
Momodora | Moonlit Farewell
Critics | 84
Gamers | 8.1
Steam | “very positive”
For fans of the metroidvania genre, the game requires little introduction; it’s the fifth installment in the Momodora series. With its distinctive visual style and refined genre mechanics, it checks all the boxes. Consequently, enthusiasts are not quick to critique the project. Indeed, it is quite a niche title, catering specifically to those ‘in the know.’ Additionally, it carries forward the storyline from Momodora III.
A few words about the “bad guys”
You might wonder about the placement of the Alone in the Dark remake on the list, given the high praise it received from many reviewers. Yet, here it stands, somewhat of an outlier, garnering some of the lowest ratings among the games released in the first quarter of 2024. The reboot of Alone in the Dark secured 67 points from critics and a 7.5 user rating. While these scores would have been considered decent in the past, they pale in comparison to today’s standards, where games typically score no less than 8. On Steam, however, the reviews are more favorable, with a “mostly positive” consensus.
The primary issue lies in the technical aspects – the game “indulges” the player with severe stutters and freezes during load times, even on robust hardware. The gameplay is also criticized for its lack of dynamism, even by survival horror standards.
Additionally, the Polish quest game The Inquisitor, with scores of 58 and 5.9, is on the list of poorly received games. Similarly, Skull’n’Bones has faced universal criticism; it appears Ubisoft has amalgamated all the elements that modern games are often disparaged for – tedious grinding, a lackluster storyline, and oversimplified combat.
What do you think are the worst games of early 2024? Share your thoughts in the comments!
