This year, amid a deluge of new releases, several older games have captured the attention of our team, proving that great gameplay often transcends release dates. From expansive space adventures to cozy farming simulators, these titles, ranging from 2002 to 2022, have offered compelling experiences worth revisiting or discovering for the first time.
The gaming landscape in 2024 saw over 18,500 games released on Steam alone, making it difficult for any one title to stand out amidst the competition. Many games, however, resurface over time through recommendations, price drops, or a player's change of perspective. This phenomenon has led to the rediscovery of hidden gems and reevaluations of older releases.
One such game is the tranquil farming simulator, Stardew Valley (2016). Despite its initial release years ago, the game provided our team with a comforting experience and a way to relax amidst a busy schedule. The title's simplicity and ability to occupy both short and long periods of time made it a great companion during travel. In addition to single-player, the game's multiplayer has provided a way for team members to connect.
Moving from the peaceful countryside to a survival adventure, Grounded (2022) also made a notable appearance in our discussions. The game’s unique premise and 80's-inspired design offer a compelling experience, in a world shrunk down, where players must explore a backyard, gather resources, and overcome obstacles, similar to the movie "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids". Grounded is enjoyed by many for its balanced gameplay.
Shifting focus to strategic combat, Fights in Tight Spaces (2021) emerged as a standout title. This card-based game provides a turn-by-turn combat experience inspired by action films, which rewards players for precision and strategic thinking. Its smooth animations and ability to cater to a wide difficulty range make the game worth considering for any fan of tactical games.
In the realm of role-playing games, the 2002 release of The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind was reconsidered. Reflecting on the impact the game had on the industry, team members explored how the title's design choices differed from modern trends. The game's focus on open exploration and unique design choices still offer the player a lot of creative freedom.
A unique blend of two classic puzzle games, Tetrisweeper (2020), also made the list of noteworthy games. This title combines the block-dropping mechanics of Tetris with the mine-clearing challenges of Minesweeper, creating an experience that is both familiar and new. While also providing a great way to pass the time, the unique mechanics push the player to multitask and think strategically.
Diving into space exploration, Freelancer (2003), despite being a two-decade old title, provides a compelling gameplay experience. This space trading sim with mouse-based controls still offers a great experience. The game stands out for its accessibility compared to other games in the genre.
Finally, Cyberpunk 2077 (2020), with its complicated release history, also made the list. While the game was initially met with negative feedback, it has since had major updates. Despite its flaws, its world and unique characters make for an enjoyable experience. The DLC especially seemed to address some of the weaknesses present in the base game.
These titles demonstrate that the passage of time does not diminish the value of a well-crafted game. These titles offer great variety in both play style and experience. The titles also show that older games can still be discovered and appreciated.
