The RPS Selection Box: Jeremy's Must-Play Games of 2024

2024 marked a transformative year for me at RPS, where I dove into an expansive array of gaming experiences. As a guide writer, I found myself navigating through intense battles, gritty Soulslike challenges, and perplexing gacha lootboxes. Yet, amidst the chaos, I unearthed gems offering a soothing reprieve. Here, I spotlight three standout games from this year—two delightful experiences and one wonderfully eccentric title that may not have made the Game of the Year list, but captured my heart nonetheless.

An English Haunting

My journey into “An English Haunting” began when Alice B, a fellow writer, shared her enthusiasm after the demo's release. Although it fell through the cracks for a review during a busy transition period, I couldn't resist bringing attention to this enchanting point-and-click adventure. Set in 1907 England and Scotland, you step into the shoes of Professor Patrick Moore, a scholar tasked with unraveling supernatural mysteries before the Metapsychic Investigations department at your university shuts down for good.

For those who enjoy Victorian and Edwardian tales, this game promises an immersive atmosphere filled with suspense. I loved its blend of gaslit streets, clever puzzles, and an intriguing plotline featuring none other than Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who believed in spirits while crafting tales of Sherlock Holmes. The graphics and sound design artfully capture both eeriness and charm, making it a captivating exploration of spiritualism.

My only qualm? The pacing dips during the Scottish expedition, feeling somewhat bloated compared to the tight experience of the creators' previous project, “Nightmare Frames.” Regardless, the grand finale is a true spectacle that includes genuinely thrilling jump scares, which are rare in point-and-click adventures.

Dragon's Dogma 2

“Dragon's Dogma 2” was a major highlight of my year. It quickly became my leading project and a showcase of creativity for our team. This sequel masterfully embraces chaos and freedom, allowing players the liberty to craft their own adventure. The Pawn system, where AI companions grow and adapt, is both charming and functional, while the dynamic boss battles provide exhilarating moments that echo the best experiences from tabletop RPGs.

Capcom has truly outdone itself, providing a rich sandbox where eccentricity reigns. The absurdity of players inadvertently destroying their romances with the Unmaking Arrow adds a delightful twist that echoes those unforgettable, chaotic TTRPG nights. If you’re in the mood for an immersive, unpredictable experience, you won’t want to miss what Dragon's Dogma 2 has to offer.

Vampire Survivors: Ode to Castlevania

If you haven’t yet tried “Vampire Survivors,” I can’t recommend it enough, especially with the “Ode to Castlevania” DLC that launched in October. This casual yet captivating gameplay pairs perfectly with the beloved aesthetic of the Castlevania franchise. As I navigated through waves of nostalgic enemies as Poppea Pecorina, I felt an exhilarating rush that only such a crossover could provide.

This DLC exceeds expectations with its robust offerings, featuring iconic characters like Simon, Trevor, and Richter, along with unexpected cameos that deepen the connection to the Castlevania lore. The sheer depth of references will keep fans engaged, and for those unfamiliar with the series—now's the perfect time to dive in.

In an age where the Castlevania brand seems to be on hiatus, “Ode to Castlevania” rejuvenates the franchise, proving that fun, engaging gameplay can still thrive. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience one of the best updates the series has seen—grab it today and relive the thrilling nostalgia of facing down Medusa Heads and other classic foes.

Conclusion

These three titles underscore a vibrant year of gaming, blending intensity, charm, and nostalgia. Whether you're navigating the haunted paths of “An English Haunting,” slaying dragons in “Dragon's Dogma 2,” or reliving the legacy of “Castlevania” in “Vampire Survivors,” there’s something to captivate every gamer in 2024. Ready to roll up your sleeves and jump into these adventures? The gaming world awaits!