2023 was an amazing year when it came to games and stories, gameplay elements, and characters that were used in them. It looks like 2024 will be the same or maybe even better for new games in some aspects. As we await wait the first exciting premiere, let’s check my most anticipated 2024 games and why they’ll be important to the gaming world.
Alone in the Dark (releases on March 20, 2024)
Alone in the Dark is an upcoming remake of a 1992 game of the same title. It has generated significant excitement among both long-time fans of the survival horror genre and those new to the series. Several key factors contribute to the heightened excitement surrounding this release. One of them is the unexpected success of Resident Evil games.
The comparison to the Resident Evil remakes further adds to the anticipation. The Resident Evil series has undergone a successful transformation in recent years, redefining the survival horror genre with its revamped visuals, refined mechanics, and immersive storytelling. By drawing inspiration from the Resident Evil remakes, Alone in the Dark suggests a similar commitment to delivering a higher level of quality and remaking the story to be classic but still fit the modern times.
The original Alone in the Dark holds a special place in the hearts of many old-time gamers. The idea of revisiting a classic game with modern upgrades and a refreshed game design is one of the biggest pulls of this remake. The possibility of experiencing the atmospheric and spine-chilling thrills of the original game in a new and enhanced form, has captivated me from the first moment I had the pleasure to play in the prologue of this remake.
The decision to set the game in the 1920s is a good decision, as it will introduce a historical and mysterious backdrop that is likely to enhance the overall atmosphere and honor the original game. The narrative will be centered around paranormal investigations within a well-known location to fans of the OG game, Derceto Mansion.
One notable feature is the option for players to choose between two protagonists: Edward Carnby and Emily Hartwood. This not only adds an element of player-focused decisions but also introduces the potential for varied perspectives and storylines, increasing the game’s replayability. The casting of well-known actors, David Harbour as Edward Carnby and Jodie Comer as Emily Hartwood, brings a level of star power to the project, elevating the characters and their performances. Furthermore, the motion-capture looks incredibly realistic and even though I played in a demo version of the game, it was amazing.
Alone in the Dark releases on March 20 on PC, Xbox Series S/X, and PlayStation 5.
What to Expect: Alone in the Dark
Black Myth: Wukong (releases on August 20, 2024)
Black Myth: Wukong is a game that’s been in development for more than half a decade. First and foremost, the game is an action role-playing experience set in classical 16th-century China. It’s based on the novel Journey to the West, a story recently adapted into Netflix’s animated film The Monkey King, which is considered to be a literary masterpiece that has captivated audiences for centuries.
The gameplay of Black Myth: Wukong introduces a very fascinating premise. Players take control of a character based on Sun Wukong, known in the game as “the Destined One,” navigating through a diverse array of enemies. The unique feature of being able to transform into a flying insect or a giant monster adds an innovative twist to the traditional action role-playing formula. This transformative ability not only enhances gameplay mechanics, but also promises a visually stunning and dynamic gaming experience. And to me, it sounds like an interesting feature that will elevate this game into something special.
The game’s marketing strategy has also played a significant role in building anticipation. The release of a 13-minute pre-alpha gameplay video in 2020 gathered instant attention from many, which resulted in gaining millions of views on YouTube within a short period. The decision to shift the game to Unreal Engine 5, as revealed in the 12-minute gameplay trailer on August 19, 2021, further heightened expectations.
Unreal Engine 5 is the new engine developed to make more realistic games and use the performance of the best available computers and consoles. Renowned for its cutting-edge graphics and capabilities, this engine will be a big chance for Black Myth: Wukong to aim to deliver a visually stunning and technologically advanced gaming experience.
The official announcement at The Game Awards 2023, confirmed that the release date of the game is August. This game will be released on PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S and PC.
South Park: Snow Day (releases on March 26, 2024)
South Park: Snow Day is the sequel to the popular South Park: The Stick of Truth and South Park: The Fractured But Whole games. It will provide the transition to three-dimensional gameplay which is a significant evolution from its predecessors, offering players a fresh and immersive experience in the iconic town of South Park. The shift to 3D from 2D adds new values to the game’s visuals and environment, which were important in previous games.
This new game will introduce the co-op multiplayer mode, allowing up to three additional players to join the game and experience it with you. The idea of teaming up with friends to explore and navigate the snow-piled streets of South Park provides players with greater immersion in the whole world.
The plot of South Park: Snow Day revolves around a snow day, a concept relatable to many, especially in the context of the South Park universe. The game promises a fun and humorous adventure as players control beloved characters such as Cartman, Stan, Kyle, and Kenny, celebrating the magical day and embarking on a quest to save the world while enjoying a break from school.
The game’s development, led by Question LLC and published by THQ Nordic, has been anticipated since the announcement of a new South Park game following a significant deal between ViacomCBS and the series creators, Matt Stone and Trey Parker. The investment in a 3D video game is something that makes me believe that they decided to try a new direction for the franchise, to provide players/fans with something new and fun.
What to Expect: South Park: Snow Day!
Hades II (releases in 2024)
Hades II is my second most anticipated game of 2024, due to the immense success and acclaim of its predecessor, Hades. The original Hades, released in 2020, received many positive ratings and reviews for its captivating story, well-developed characters, engaging gameplay, and exceptional soundtrack.
Critics and players alike praised its roguelike elements, fast-paced combat, and the innovative integration of Greek mythology. What was also most exciting about Hades was its format. It didn’t matter whether you were a pro or an amateur, you could choose which way you wanted to play the game, and with what upgrades and weapons.
The announcement of Hades II at The Game Awards 2022 gained a lot of attention and excitement among the gaming community. Building on the foundation laid by Hades, the sequel promises to continue the epic narrative with a new protagonist, Melinoë, the Princess of the Underworld, daughter of Hades, and sister to Zagreus. Introducing a new playable character adds more to the storyline and opens doors to more stories and amazing adventures set in this world. From the moment the trailer was released, players are eager to explore the unique abilities and challenges that Melinoë will bring to the game.
The choice of antagonist, Chronos, the Titan of Time, raises expectations for a complex and thrilling narrative. The Greek mythology theme, which is one of my favorites in pop culture, was a key highlight of the original game and is expected to be further explored and enriched in Hades II.
Hades II’s early access release for Windows in Q2 2024 adds to the anticipation, allowing players to get a glimpse of the game’s development and provide valuable feedback. The continuation of the beloved art style, music, and voice acting from the original game is expected to contribute to the sequel’s success. The visual and auditory elements were crucial in establishing the Underworld’s immersive atmosphere in Hades, and fans (myself included) are eager to see how these aspects will be further used and expanded in Hades II.
Hades II will be released in 2024 on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4/5, and PC.
The Wolf Among Us 2 (releases in 2024)
Now we’ve got my number 1 on the list of the highly anticipated 2024 games. The Wolf Among Us 2 is the long-awaited sequel to the warmly reviewed The Wolf Among Us, which was nominated many times during award season. Once again, the iconic studio Telltale Games returns to bring us an amazing and exhilarating story in an episodic format. Set six months after the events of the previous title, the game promises to continue the narrative of Bigby Wolf and Snow White, the main characters of the first game.
Telltale Games had considered a second season for The Wolf Among Us shortly after the completion of the first game in 2014. The announcement of the sequel came during San Diego Comic-Con back in 2017, generating excitement among fans. Despite facing challenges, including studio closures in 2018, the game was revived after Telltale’s acquisition by LCG Entertainment. The announcement at The Game Awards 2019 astonished fans, including me because the first game is one of my favorites.
Adam Harrington and Erin Yvette will reprise their roles and I have to say, it will be very cool to hear them once again after all these years.
The development of The Wolf Among Us 2 involves collaboration with AdHoc Studio, focusing on narrative and cinematic elements, while Telltale handles gameplay and design. The decision to switch from Unreal Engine 4 to Unreal Engine 5 in 2023, coupled with an episodic release approach, will again bring us a game that feels like a TV series. Just like the exceptionally fantastic Alan Wake II did, but now we are creating the story.
The Wolf Among Us 2 releases in 2024 on PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
What new games in 2024 are you most looking forward too?
These are just a few of the fun and exciting games coming out in 2024. It seems like gamers are in for a good year of gaming, with a different game or every occasion. Let us know on social media @mycosmiccircus or in The Cosmic Circus Discord which new 2024 games you’re looking forward to playing this year!
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