The 15 Most Beautiful Games of 2024

We’re back with another round of our series that celebrates the most visually stunning games of the year.

This year was filled with amazing titles, and we’ve played as many as we could to put together this list showcasing the breathtaking creativity of artists, directors and designers who transform pixels into masterpieces.

In no specific order, here are the games that blew us away with their unique and incredible visuals in 2024.

The Plucky Squire

Starting out with the gorgeous indie debut from All Possible Futures, The Plucky Squire. If you’re looking for a game that feels like you’re stepping into a storybook, this is an absolute gem.

This action platformer has a gorgeous hand-drawn aesthetic crafted by art director James Turner. But what really steals the show is its clever mechanic, seamlessly shifting between 2D and 3D gameplay.

One moment you’re exploring the pages of a colorful storybook, and the next you’re hopping into the vibrant 3D world outside of it.

Australian indie studio All Possible Futures absolutely nailed it with their first game. The Plucky Squire is playful, imaginative, and impossible not to love.

Release date: September 17, 2024

Platforms: Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

Next up is Elden Ring: Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, and while it’s technically an expansion, not a full game, it’s definitely one of the most breathtaking and memorable gaming experiences of 2024.

The Land of Shadow is nothing short of stunning, featuring sprawling landscapes packed with eerie beauty and a dark, mystical atmosphere. Just like the base game, each corner of this vast new area is packed with hidden secrets, encouraging exploration.

The expansion also introduces some seriously tough new enemies and bosses, each with intricate, jaw-dropping designs that will make you stop and take it all in before bracing for a tough fight.

Shadow of the Erdtree takes everything we loved about Elden Ring’s base game and cranks it up a notch, delivering an even more epic and polished experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding.

Release date: June 21, 2024

Platforms: Windows, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One

Harold Halibut

Few games are as lovingly crafted as Harold Halibut. This hand-made stop-motion adventure feels like stepping into a miniature film set. Each scene is built using traditional sculpting and model-making techniques, bringing a quirky, retro-future world to life.

Set aboard a sprawling, city-sized spaceship submerged in an alien ocean, you follow Harold, a lab assistant, as he navigates a heartfelt story about friendship, home and discovery.

With a colorful cast of characters and stunningly detailed scenes, this game is a fantastic example of interactive storytelling.

Release date: Apr 16, 2024

Platforms: Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S

Hellblade II: Senua’s Saga

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II is hands-down the most visually stunning Xbox exclusive we’ve seen yet. The game oozes cinematic flair with hyper-realistic graphics and a moody atmosphere that really pulls you in.

While its gameplay and storytelling didn’t quite hit the mark for some players, it’s impossible to ignore the masterpiece of its design.

It also snagged well-deserved wins at this year’s Game Awards, taking home trophies for Best Audio Design and Best Performance thanks to Melina Juergens’ deeply powerful portrayal of Senua.

Release date: May 21, 2024

Platforms: Windows, Xbox Series X/S

Nine Sols

Another game that caught our eye this year is Nine Sols. Its hand-drawn visuals are nothing short of stunning, filled with vibrant colors and silky-smooth animations.

The game’s Asian fantasy-inspired futuristic world is a masterpiece of design, weaving together the serene spirituality of Taoism with the sharp edge of cyberpunk aesthetics. Red Candle Games calls this unique blend “taopunk,” and the result is a striking fusion of sci-fi tech and Eastern mythology.

Nine Sols totally blew us away with its awesome art style, whether we were exploring intricate futuristic settings or wandering through its magical forests.

Release date: May 29, 2024

Platforms: Windows, macOS, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch

Astro Bot

If there’s one game that deserves to be celebrated this year, it’s Astro Bot. Developed by Team Asobi, this PlayStation 5 exclusive takes you on an unforgettable adventure filled with joy, creativity, and a big dose of nostalgia. It’s no wonder it snagged the Game of the Year award at The Game Awards 2024.

With a ton of levels spread across vibrant galaxies, each stage is packed with surprises, clever puzzles and flawless gameplay mechanics that mix old-school platforming with fresh ideas.

But one of the coolest things about Astro Bot is how it celebrates PlayStation’s legacy. As you play through the game you’ll come across hundreds of easter eggs scattered throughout, including iconic characters from past PlayStation franchises lovingly reimagined as “VIP Bots.”

While the game dazzled with its inventive levels and excellent mechanics, it’s also one of 2024’s most beautiful titles. Team Asobi crafted an amazing experience featuring a variety of breathtaking environments, unique boss designs, and mesmerizing animations that burst with color in 4K.

Release date: September 6, 2024

Platforms: PlayStation 5

Black Myth: Wukong

Black Myth: Wukong is a mesmerizing action RPG that brings Chinese mythology to life in spectacular fashion. Inspired by the classic Journey to the West novel, it reimagines the tale with breathtaking visuals and a wildly engaging combat system.

Players take on the role of a warrior monkey inspired by Sun Wukong, armed with a staff and an arsenal of shapeshifting powers to face off against thrilling bosses and uncover hidden mysteries.

Though it dealt with a few bugs at launch, the game’s strengths far outweighed its flaws, delivering an unforgettable experience in a world brimming with secrets, lore, and incredibly stunning visuals.

Release date: August 19, 2024

Platforms: Windows, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a fantastic metroidvania featuring fluid platforming, inventive puzzles, challenging combat and a range of fun skills to unlock.

This new entry in the long-running series is set in a mythological Persian world where players have the ability to manipulate time and space.

Its bold, anime and comic book-inspired art style makes every frame pop with vibrant colors and striking backdrops.

The Lost Crown is a perfect blend of style and substance that keeps players hooked from start to finish.

Release date: January 18, 2024

Platforms: Windows, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom delivers a fresh twist on the classic formula by putting Princess Zelda herself in the spotlight as the protagonist for the first time ever.

Her quest to save Link and Hyrule brings a unique perspective to the beloved series, enriched by inventive gameplay mechanics that add exciting new layers without losing the timeless dungeon exploration and satisfying puzzles we all know and love.

The diorama-like art style, inherited from the charming Link’s Awakening remake, gives the game a wonderfully whimsical feel.

With its miniature figure-like characters and enemies, it exudes a delightful charm that makes the world of Hyrule feel both new and nostalgically magical. It’s a bold new step for the series and a treat for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Release date: September 26, 2024

Platforms: Nintendo Switch

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess stood out this year as a rare blend of action, real-time strategy, and even tower defense mechanics, delivering a very unique gameplay experience.

Set in a vibrant, dreamlike fantasy world, the game draws heavily from Japanese folklore and the timeless elegance of Ukiyo-e art, resulting in an aesthetic that is mesmerizing and unforgettable.

Every detail, from the intricate character designs to the lush, otherworldly environments, feels alive and meticulously crafted. This fusion of stunning visuals and interesting mechanics creates a truly immersive experience, making it one of the most captivating titles of the year.

Release date: July 19, 2024

Platforms: Windows, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One

Dungeons of Hinterberg

Dungeons of Hinterberg is a delightful mix of action RPG mechanics and cozy social interactions, all set in the picturesque fictional town of Hinterberg, nestled in the Austrian Alps.

The game combines the energy of hack and slash combat with clever puzzles and social simulation elements. It encourages you to build connections with townsfolk and fellow adventurers in order to level up and improve your skills.

The game’s cel-shaded art style with subtle halftone textures is a visual treat, clearly inspired by the works of Mobius. Each environment boasts its own distinct color palette, giving every dungeon and the town of Hinterberg its own vibe.

The simple yet endearing character designs fit perfectly into this aesthetic, making Hinterberg feel vibrant and alive. While the gameplay can get a bit repetitive after a while, the charm of the world and its characters keeps the adventure fresh.

Dungeons of Hinterberg is one of the most interesting indies of the year. It invites you into a world you’ll want to stay in, where challenge and relaxation exist in perfect harmony.

Release date: July 18, 2024

Platforms: Windows, Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One

Still Wakes the Deep

Still Wakes the Deep takes you deep into the unnerving isolation of an oil drilling platform in the North Sea during the 1970s. Playing as the rig’s electrician, you’re thrown into a nightmarish situation as disaster strikes, leaving you trapped on the damaged and desolate structure. To make matters worse, there’s something strange lurking in the shadows, hunting you as you desperately try to find a way to escape.

The brilliance of Still Wakes the Deep lies in its environmental storytelling. Every inch of the rig is designed to provoke fear, from dizzying heights that trigger vertigo to waterlogged sections that threaten drowning, and tight, oppressive passages that squeeze every ounce of claustrophobia from your body.

Haunting visuals and masterful cinematic lighting crank up the tension, creating an atmosphere that feels as suffocating as the protagonist’s predicament. Without a combat system to rely on, the game forces you to think on your feet. Survival depends on your ability to solve puzzles, stay hidden, and outwit the mysterious creatures haunting the rig.

What makes Still Wakes the Deep truly unforgettable isn’t just its scares but its immersive craftsmanship. The sound design amplifies the dread, capturing every metallic groan of the rig, the roar of the ocean, and the whisper of something unknown in the distance. The voice performances, particularly Alec Newman as the protagonist, bring authenticity and raw emotion to the experience.

While the game may be short, it’s packed with tense, heart-pounding moments that stay with you long after the credits roll. It’s a visceral, gripping psychological horror that will keep you at the edge of your seat for the entire journey.

Release date: June 18, 2024

Platforms: Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One

Caravan SandWitch

Caravan SandWitch is a delightful blend of exploration, storytelling, and heartfelt connections, all wrapped up in a cozy and stress-free package. You play as a young girl traveling across a vibrant, Sci-Fi world in her trusty yellow van, searching for her missing sister.

There’s no combat or danger to worry about here, just a laid-back adventure where you can savor each moment at your own pace. Along the way, you’ll help out family and friends with their tasks, meet quirky new characters, and uncover the hidden mysteries of this colorful universe.

The world of Caravan SandWitch feels alive and dense, brimming with details that invite you to poke around and discover its secrets. There’s always something new to find, and the characters you meet along the way add warmth and charm to the adventure.

One of the most impactful and iconic visual elements of the game is the van itself—a rugged, can’t-miss yellow vehicle that becomes your trusty companion through every twist and turn.

Over time, you can upgrade it with new abilities and tools that open up new areas to explore and puzzles to solve. Whether you’re navigating rocky terrain or using one of its gadgets to find hidden secrets, the van feels like an essential part of the adventure, almost as though it has its own personality.

At its heart, Caravan SandWitch is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Its story, a heartfelt quest to reunite with your sister, is filled with emotional moments, twists, and surprises that make it thoroughly engaging. But it’s the combination of stress-free gameplay, charming interactions, and dreamlike exploration that makes this indie gem shine.

Release date: September 12, 2024

Platforms: Windows, PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle delivers an exhilarating mix of action, exploration, and puzzle-solving, all crafted to make you feel like the legendary archaeologist himself.

Played from a first-person perspective, it immerses you into a thrilling new Indy story filled with ancient artifacts, devious villains, and intriguing locations. It checks all the boxes for an Indiana Jones adventure, staying true to the heart-pounding, globe-trotting spirit of the franchise.

The narrative is fantastic and without a doubt the best Indiana Jones story in years, packed with clever twists and memorable moments that would feel right at home in the iconic film series.

Visually, the game is nothing short of breathtaking. Each location is rich with detail, from lush jungles hiding ancient ruins to atmospheric underground tombs dripping with mystery. The use of lighting enhances the already stunning environments, adding an extra layer of cinematic flair.

Sound design is also excellent, with the stellar environmental audio and a sweeping soundtrack that pays homage to the franchise, it takes the immersion to another level. Indy’s whip in particular deserves a special mention, delivering that iconic (and extremely satisfying) crack every time you use it.

Another highlight is the game’s voice acting. Troy Baker’s portrayal of a young Harrison Ford is nothing short of extraordinary. He nails the charisma, dry wit and rugged charm that make Indy such a beloved character.

With its engaging gameplay, stunning presentation, and a story that feels like it was pulled straight from the original films, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is a thrilling experience and an amazing tribute to one of cinema’s most beloved action heroes. It captures everything that made Indy a legend while delivering a fresh adventure that fans, new and old, will thoroughly enjoy.

Release date: December 9, 2024

Platforms: Windows and Xbox Series X/S (the PlayStation 5 version is set to release in early 2025)

Neva

Developed by Nomada Studio, the creators of the critically acclaimed Gris, Neva takes everything we loved about their storytelling and artistic vision and elevates it to new heights.

This beautiful action-adventure puzzle-platformer follows the deeply emotional story of Alba, a young woman on a mission to save her world from overwhelming darkness. Traveling with her loyal wolf companion, Neva, she confronts challenges across four beautifully changing seasons that mirror her personal growth and determination.

The art style in Neva is simply jaw-dropping. Creative director Conrad Roset has crafted a world that feels like a living painting, brimming with vibrant colors and lush environments that evoke wonder and melancholy in equal measure. Every scene feels like it’s been lovingly hand-painted, with rich textures, smooth animations, and a painterly brilliance that demands to be appreciated. It’s the kind of game where you’ll want to pause just to soak in every detail.

Another aspect that sets Neva apart is its ability to tell a story so powerfully without over-explaining. Aside from Alba calling out her wolf companion’s name, there’s no dialogue throughout the game. The narrative revolves around their bond, and their relationship grows as they face obstacles together.

The puzzles and platforming challenges are cleverly integrated into the story, making each moment feel meaningful. Whether you’re solving environmental puzzles, traversing breathtaking landscapes, or simply walking alongside Neva, there’s a constant sense of wonder and intimacy.

Neva is nothing short of breathtaking, and it deserves its praise as a masterpiece. Rarely does a game capture both the art and emotional weight of storytelling so completely. Nomada Studio has once again crafted an experience that shows why video games are such a unique and powerful medium.

Release date: October 15, 2024

Platforms: Windows, macOS, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch

And that’s it for 2024! We hope you enjoyed this year’s list. You can check out our 2023 and 2022 picks here, or get even more gaming inspiration right here.

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