As a longtime aficionado of the chilling and macabre, I can confidently say that the gaming landscape of 2024 has been a veritable cornucopia of spine-tingling terror. However, one title has managed to stand head and shoulders above its contemporaries, captivating my heart and sending shivers down my spine in equal measure: the Silent Hill 2 Remake by the intrepid developers at Bloober Team.
2024 has proven to be a horrifyingly fantastic year for horror enthusiasts, offering an abundance of exceptional releases that seem more lavish than any Thanksgiving banquet – it’s safe to say, gamers are enjoying their fill.
With The Game Awards just around the corner and 2024 drawing to a close, it’s time to look back at the most terrifying games of the year and understand what makes them so spine-tingling. Fortunately, there are several standout titles that serve as beacons for this year and the horror genre in general.
This year, every member of the TopMob Team shared their preferred horror game among them, and there was an abundance of intriguing choices available.
As a devoted fan, I can’t help but share my deepest impressions of some truly chilling horror games that have left an indelible mark on me this year. Regrettably, it appears The Game Awards have yet to fully appreciate the horror genre, so here’s my personal ranking of the outstanding horror titles from AAA to indie in 2024:
10. Slitterhead
Body-Swapping Body Horror
Slitterhead is the tangible embodiment of an unexpected delight. Created by Keiichiro Toyama, the mastermind behind Silent Hill and Siren series, many gamers anticipated a familiar horror experience. However, this game deviates from that expectation as it offers more action-adventure with horrifying elements, yet remains captivatingly enjoyable.
In essence, the core feature of this game lies in taking control over different entities, which paves the way for a variety of challenges related to problem-solving and conflict resolution.
Each stage of body-swapping presents its own uniqueness, and to add to that complexity, certain characters are classified as Rarities – individuals who remain aware during the process of being possessed and even gain abilities during this event.
In this action-packed journey, the visuals are captivatingly detailed and rich, showcasing an intricate world and backdrop. The atmosphere and overall feel of the game are skillfully crafted, as one would anticipate from a talented artist like Toyama.
Adventurers plunging into the urban landscape of Kowloon, Hong Kong, can expect a raw, ’90s-style, gritty journey filled with sinister creatures and an ominous ambiance. For aficionados of grotesque bodily themes, Slitterhead is a must-experience game.
9. The Casting of Frank Stone
A Cinematic Horror Experience
The Latest Game from Supermassive, titled ‘The Casting of Frank Stone’, might not appeal to everyone.
In the realm of Dead by Daylight, The Casting of Frank Stone plays out more like an immersive horror film experience, offering limited significant choices and lacking quick-time events (QTEs).
Fundamentally filmic, the game’s visual appeal largely overshadows its uneven tempo, making players generally forgiving.
The narrative of this game is remarkably prominent, and what truly stands out is this focus on storytelling. Although it’s marketed with intense dilemmas, it’s worth noting that the choices don’t significantly alter the overall outcome, because the game is committed to telling a particular tale, and it does so consistently.
Indeed, enthusiasts of DBD (Dead by Daylight) will find this game pleasing not only due to the infamous antagonist but also because of its captivating plot. The narrative unfolds in the quaint town of Cedar Hills during 1963, yet it leaps forward to the 80s and even the contemporary era, boasting a diverse array of characters who are intriguingly developed and well-crafted.
1) Frank Stone’s personality adds an air of awe-inspiring intimidation, fitting for his significant role in the storyline. The game, in essence, serves as a surprise package; it may not resonate with all players, but some will find themselves thrilled by it.
8. Pacific Drive
Cars for Company
This game has an amusing quality to it, as it takes a very relatable, everyday phobia – the anxiety of your vehicle malfunctioning – and amplifies it significantly.
Absolutely, nothing could be more frustrating than dealing with a difficult day, only to have your vehicle break down unexpectedly – especially when your car on Pacific Drive is crucial for getting around. Without it, you’re essentially stranded.
In essence, it’s crucial to maintain your vehicle since it’s vital for your wellbeing as you find yourself cut off from others and on your own.
Pacific Drive represents a groundbreaking survival game, imbued with a somber and immersive ambiance in all aspects.
Seriously, it deserves an award for its well-done, unique approach alone, but it got completely snubbed at The Game Awards. You’re scavenging parts to survive and to upgrade your car, siphoning fuel and other resources that will be crucial on the fly.
This game doesn’t provide step-by-step guidance; instead, it’s more beneficial because it enables players to thoroughly explore their environment and effectively use their resources. Consequently, it encourages players to abandon patterns common in other games.
Players might become so engrossed in obtaining fuel and tires that they could overlook their car battery needs, making a torch, or any obstacles that may arise unexpectedly – and this doesn’t even account for potential hazards in the environment.
Truly, this game is exceptional and deserves significantly more attention and acclaim than it currently enjoys.
7. The Last of Us Part 2: Remastered
The Improvement of a Gripping Drama
For a moment, let’s get straight to the point: Is it truly essential for a game from four years ago to be remastered? While Neil Druckmann thinks The Last of Us Part II called for one, I personally believe it wasn’t required. However, the visual and performance upgrades are nothing short of breathtaking.
In the continuation of Ellie’s tale titled “The Last of Us Part II Remastered“, we witness her relentless pursuit of vengeance, which is tinged with themes of remorse and animosity that deeply permeate the narrative. This dark storyline is reflected in the game’s graphic violence, and with its enhancements, it manages to make players feel morally compromised for their actions.
Since its release in 2020, this game has sparked numerous debates and disputes, a trend that persists with its remastered version.
The main reason for this is likely because of Abby, a character who is generally not well-received, yet her presence is sure to keep the conversation going when Season 2 of the series premieres.
Although the game itself wasn’t essential, it was delightful extra content for the series enthusiasts, particularly those eager to appreciate the dazzling aspects that shine on the PlayStation 5.
6. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
Survive in a Nuclear Wasteland
Among this year’s new releases, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is a heartfelt tribute to the survival genre, beautifully demonstrating the resilience of the human spirit.
Working tirelessly under challenging circumstances, the Ukrainian development team at GSC Game World managed to release the game despite numerous obstacles. This perseverance is palpable throughout the entire game, imbuing it with a strong sense of resilience.
The central theme of this game is staying alive within the forbidden radiation areas surrounding the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant. The fear that permeates it is not just intense, but insidious – it gradually builds up until you find yourself instinctively looking over your shoulder while praying for safety.
As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but admit that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 has its fair share of bugs, yet it’s these very imperfections that seem to be overlooked by both newbies and veterans alike. This game manages to capture an atmosphere so chilling and authentic, it feels as if you’re wandering through a hauntingly beautiful nuclear wasteland.
It seems this game isn’t likely to garner attention at The Game Awards, yet that certainly doesn’t imply it lacks the affection it deserves.
5. Still Wakes the Deep
A Heartbreaking Lovecraftian Nightmare
In terms of walking simulation games, people either adore them or find them unappealing – but whatever their opinion on such games, it cannot be disputed that “Still Wakes the Deep” stands out as a remarkable offering in the realm of Lovecraftian horror.
The story is gripping and heartwrenching, following Caz McClearly, an engineer for the Beira D. Oil Rig, as a literal nightmare unfolds around him.
Following the hasty excavation into the enigmatic figure known as ‘The Shape’, the terrifying creature from the game, a chilling and grotesque twist unfolds instead.
As a gamer, I can’t help but be blown away by the meticulously crafted acting, visuals, sound, and storyline in this game. It creates an atmosphere of dread and despair that’s hard to shake off. Despite the seemingly hopeless situation, my character, Caz, refuses to give up. I find myself fighting tooth and nail just to stay alive.
As a fervent admirer of horror games, I can’t help but bring to light an obscure gem that might otherwise go unnoticed by those outside the indie gaming community: Still Wakes the Deep. For fellow aficionados yearning for their next heart-pounding, soul-stirring fright (and a descent into emotional turmoil), this game is destined to leave an indelible mark on your memory, long after the final credits have been read.
4. Metro Awakening
The Best Fear Comes From Immersion
Virtual reality games offer a chilling, intensely immersive encounter, and this is especially evident in Metro Awakening, a precursor to the initial Metro video game.
As a doctor, you embark on an expedition through the treacherous and unwelcoming Moscow underground in pursuit of your spouse, yet alas, you encounter difficulties along the way.
This VR game offers an additional level of involvement, demanding a wide range of motion from your upper body. Fortunately, you can fulfill this requirement whether you’re sitting or standing. Due to this heightened immersion, the first-person stealth becomes particularly intense and even somewhat claustrophobic. This results in a palpable tension that feels as sharp as a knife edge.
The game portrays the tunnels as an artificial version of purgatory, and indeed, it carries a similar eerie ambiance. Stealthily moving about in this setting can be genuinely nerve-wracking, with the complete immersion causing your pulse to quicken, wondering what could be lurking in the darkness.
By the way, if you’re as afraid of spiders as I am (due to severe arachnophobia), this game might cause you intense fear.
3. Crow Country
A Love Letter to the Classics
One significant benefit of contemporary technology lies in its ability for developers to effortlessly replicate the vintage charm of old-school video games, as exemplified by “Crow Country“. It serves as a heartwarming tribute to the horror games from times long past.
In this game, you assume the role of Mara, venturing through an old, enigmatic amusement park. Your objective is to uncover details about the park’s creator, Edward Crow, and the hidden secrets he took with him when he vanished. Gradually, the mystery begins to unravel. Luckily, the process of revisiting previous areas isn’t overly time-consuming or monotonous; instead, it feels invigorating.
This game offers a balanced mix of simplicity and complexity, featuring distinctive battle mechanics, engaging firearm play, and cleverly designed riddles and brainteasers. For numerous gamers, it provides a highly rewarding gaming journey.
Moreover, the game manages to incorporate a touch of absurdity amidst the grimness, and demonstrates self-awareness too; given the excellence of its narrative and characters, it’s little surprise that its response has been incredibly favorable.
2. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2
Terror in Norse Mythology
Exploring horror from different cultural perspectives, particularly via their myths and folklore, is consistently intriguing. For instance, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II offers a challenging survival experience set within the context of Viking-era Iceland.
As a devoted admirer, I must say, stepping into the continuation of the acclaimed Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, the anticipation was palpable. Yet, what unfolded surpassed all expectations, offering a narrative and experience that truly stands shoulder to shoulder with its predecessor.
In this game, the anxieties delved into are distinctive and truly unnerving; they range from the chilling sensation of immersion in murky depths to the traditional terror of confined spaces.
Instead of relying on conventional jump scares, it has a more subtle approach, building an atmosphere and setting the mood effectively throughout.
In essence, it’s an essential choice for gamers seeking an intensely terrifying and eerie adventure.
1. Silent Hill 2 Remake
A Masterpiece of Psychological Horror
Without a doubt, the exceptional and overwhelmingly victorious Silent Hill 2 Remake takes the crown as the top horror game of 2024. In all honesty, it’s a strong contender for Game of the Year, too.
Initially, many longtime enthusiasts of Silent Hill, including myself, felt apprehensive upon hearing about a new game in the series. Historically, Konami hasn’t been very active with this franchise, which understandably raised concerns. However, players have been astonished by the truly exceptional game they’ve received, despite these initial reservations.
The Silent Hill 2 Remake is a faithful recreation of the original Silent Hill 2, with added enhancements in areas like graphics, acting, lore, storyline, and characters. It mirrors the emotions experienced by players of the original game, while simultaneously making it more terrifying and aesthetically impressive.
This horror game is almost ideal for fans of the genre, particularly those who have eagerly anticipated a revival of the Silent Hill series. Remarkably, Bloober Team has managed to accomplish this feat.
Regardless of whether players are returning to the town or venturing into the fog for the first time, Silent Hill 2 Remake is the greatest horror game of 2024.
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2024-12-11 18:09