The Game Awards 2024, hosted once again by Geoff Keighley, has firmly cemented its reputation as the Super Bowl of video gaming. While the awards themselves may often seem like an afterthought, the event thrives on its ability to deliver world-premiere trailers and blockbuster announcements, captivating millions of viewers worldwide. This year was no exception, with an array of jaw-dropping reveals, unexpected spin-offs, and tantalizing teasers. iOS 18.2 Update ~ Why You Need to Upgrade Now. Here are the biggest highlights from the 2024 Game Awards:
Elden Ring: Nightreign
FromSoftware is back with a bang, unveiling Elden Ring: Nightreign, an expansion that delves deeper into the haunting world of the Lands Between. While some might see this as an attempt to extract more from the Elden Ring franchise, fans of the original will undoubtedly relish the opportunity to return to its atmospheric landscapes. The trailer showcases stunning visuals, spine-chilling bosses, and the cooperative gameplay that has made Elden Ring a beloved masterpiece. Whether you’re traversing ancient ruins or battling grotesque creatures, Nightreign promises to be a must-play for fans of the genre.
The Witcher IV
CD Projekt Red gave us a glimpse into the next chapter of The Witcher saga, and it’s safe to say that expectations are sky-high. The trailer focuses on Ciri, hinting at her new adventures and battles with monstrous foes. While some fans might be perplexed by her apparent departure from ruling the world as seen at the end of The Witcher 3, the promise of delving deeper into her story is undeniably exciting. With breathtaking visuals and a mysterious narrative teased, The Witcher IV looks set to continue the series' legacy of immersive storytelling and intense gameplay.
A Wild Pac-Man Game: Ultra-Violent Pac-Man
The most unexpected reveal of the night was undoubtedly an ultra-violent reimagining of Pac-Man. Presented as a Metroidvania, this iteration takes the iconic yellow character into dark and edgy territories. The gameplay teaser showcased a world brimming with eerie mazes, upgraded Pac-Man abilities, and a distinctly mature tone. While the concept may sound absurd, the innovative gameplay mechanics teased in the trailer have left fans both intrigued and eager to explore this bizarre reimagining.
Untitled genDesign Project
Fumito Ueda, the creative force behind Shadow of the Colossus and The Last Guardian, teased his latest project. While the trailer was sparse on details, the glimpse of a colossal mecha hinted at a blend of technological wonder and emotional depth. With genDesign’s track record of crafting unique and poignant experiences, this untitled game is already generating considerable buzz.
The Outer Worlds 2
Obsidian Entertainment returned to the spotlight with a trailer for The Outer Worlds 2. While the first game garnered mixed reviews, the sequel’s trailer hinted at a grander and more polished experience. With witty dialogue, colorful alien landscapes, and a promise of expanded gameplay mechanics, The Outer Worlds 2 aims to solidify its place as a standout RPG.
Split Fiction
Hazelight Studios, known for its ambitious co-op titles, unveiled Split Fiction. This game takes a meta approach, pitting dueling writers against each other in a narrative-driven adventure. With its unique premise and visually stunning presentation, Split Fiction is shaping up to be one of the most innovative games of the year.
Steel Hunters
Big robots and even bigger battles took center stage in the trailer for Steel Hunters. Drawing comparisons to Transformers, this mech-based game promises explosive action and strategic combat. The cinematic trailer hinted at epic battles and customizable mechs, leaving fans eager for more details.
The Long Dark 2: Blackfrost
Fans of survival games rejoiced at the announcement of The Long Dark 2: Blackfrost. Building on the atmospheric and contemplative nature of the original, the sequel promises an even more immersive experience. The trailer showcased breathtaking snowy landscapes, harrowing survival scenarios, and a deeply emotional narrative.
Borderlands 4
Gearbox Software returned to the stage with a trailer for Borderlands 4. While the series’ trademark humor was notably subdued, the vibrant visuals and over-the-top action were still on full display. Fans can expect more loot-filled adventures in the chaotic universe of Borderlands.
Virtua Fighter
After more than a decade, Sega surprised fighting game enthusiasts with a new Virtua Fighter game. While the trailer left much to the imagination, the return of this beloved franchise has sparked excitement among fans eager to see how Sega will modernize its classic gameplay.
Project Century
For fans of the Like a Dragon series, Project Century offered a tantalizing glimpse into a lavish historical adventure. With its stunning visuals and intense action sequences, this installment promises a bloodier and more dramatic take on the series’ formula.
Onimusha: Way of the Sword
Capcom’s Onimusha series made a triumphant return with Way of the Sword. The trailer showcased gruesome demons, beautifully choreographed fights, and a dark, atmospheric world. Fans of action games are eagerly anticipating this revival of a classic franchise.
The First Berserker: Khazan
The Russo brothers took to the stage to present the CGI-heavy trailer for The First Berserker: Khazan. While the lack of gameplay footage left some viewers skeptical, the cinematic action sequences teased an epic adventure.
Arad
Though the trailer for Arad didn’t leave a lasting impression, its appearance on stage was notable for Geoff Keighley’s apparent embarrassment when introducing it. Still, the game’s unique aesthetic has piqued curiosity.
Dying Light: The Beast
Techland’s Dying Light series continued with The Beast. The trailer highlighted new mechanics, including flamethrower combat, and reaffirmed the series’ reputation as one of the most innovative zombie games on the market.
The 2024 Game Awards delivered a mix of surprises, nostalgia, and high-octane action. From beloved franchises returning with new twists to entirely new concepts pushing the boundaries of gaming, the event was a celebration of creativity and innovation. While the awards themselves may fade into the background, the trailers and announcements will undoubtedly keep fans buzzing for months to come. With so many exciting games on the horizon, it’s a great time to be a gamer.
