Ars Technica’s Top 20 Best Video Games of 2024

Ars Technica’s Top 20 Best Video Games of 2024

2024 presented a unique challenge: while a few standout titles like Balatro, UFO 50, and Astro Bot easily made the cut, completing a Top 20 list proved harder than in previous years. The games included are strong recommendations, but many wouldn’t have made the cut in a busier year.

Highlights from Ars Technica’s Top 20:

Animal Well

Billy Basso; Windows, PS5, Xbox X/S, Switch

A Metroidvania that eschews typical formulas, Animal Well offers a sense of mystery through masterful pixel art and inscrutable map/item design. While some puzzles may require walkthroughs, the journey is memorable.

Astro Bot

Team Asobi; PS5

A 15-hour 3D platformer leveraging PS5 features, Astro Bot is a collect-a-thon filled with Easter eggs and references to PlayStation history. While excellent, its reliance on the DualSense controller limits accessibility.

Balatro

LocalThunk; Windows, PS4/5, Xbox One/Series, Switch, MacOS, iOS, Android