In 2024, a staggering 18,500 new games flooded the PC gaming platform Steam according to SteamDB. With such a colossal number of releases, it's no wonder that many remarkable titles slip through the cracks, overshadowed by the latest releases and trends. This article explores the forgotten classics that have bubbled back to the surface this year, despite their initial launch years. These games may not qualify for the 'game of the year' titles, yet they deserve recognition for their quality and enduring appeal.

Stardew Valley (2016)

*Developer: ConcernedApe; Available on Every Platform*

After years of hearing about it, I finally surrendered to the charm of *Stardew Valley* in late 2024. My initial hesitations melted away as I poured over 110 hours into cultivating my virtual farm. This soothing experience has transformed my anxiety-filled flights into moments of calm, making agricultural escapades my go-to distraction during turbulence. Multiplayer sessions with friends have turned into laugh-filled adventures of "creative" farm animal names. No doubt, *Stardew Valley* has become a staple in my gaming repertoire, proving its timeless charm year after year.

Grounded (2022)

*Developer: Obsidian Entertainment; Available on Windows, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation*

*Grounded*, a unique survival crafting game reminiscent of *Honey, I Shrunk the Kids,* offers an unexpectedly delightful gameplay experience for me and my friends this year. Launched initially in early access back in 2020 and finishing its final update in April, players can explore a backyard teeming with giant bugs while trying to regain their normal size. With its engaging objectives and cooperative gameplay, this title is sure to please fans of the genre looking for a well-structured survival game without the open-ended chaos of others.

Fights in Tight Spaces (2021)

*Developer: Ground Shatter; Available on Windows, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation*

After a relaxing holiday week, I stumbled upon *Fights in Tight Spaces*, a roguelike deckbuilder that combines strategic card play with dynamic fighting sequences. Reminiscent of the intense action found in classic Asian films, the game creates turn-based battles where players can anticipate opponents’ moves and counter them creatively. The unique visuals and effortless animations combined with frequent difficulty adjustments have made this title a significant addition to my gaming sessions, resulting in many hours of enjoyable play.

The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind (2002)