As the year draws to a close, the gaming community eagerly anticipates the unveiling of the coveted Game of the Year (GOTY) list. With just four days remaining in 2024, our team at DSOGaming has gathered to share our top picks, showcasing the titles that resonated most with our contributors: pirovashMX, Spencer, Nick, and John.
pirovashMX – Penny’s Big Breakaway
Penny’s Big Breakaway stands out as a vibrant homage to the golden age of platforming, capturing the essence of Sega’s 90s classics. The game’s design is a delightful blend of nostalgia and innovation, reminiscent of beloved titles like Sonic Adventure and Nights into Dreams. Its beautifully crafted levels and emphasis on fluid movement create an experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. The introduction of the whip mechanic adds a layer of charm, making it a must-play for anyone who cherishes the magic of Sega’s legacy.
Spencer – Virtua Fighter 5 REVO
In a surprising twist, Spencer has chosen Virtua Fighter 5 REVO as his game of the year, despite its two-decade history. Released as an Open Beta shortly before The Game Awards, this title remains a benchmark in the 3D fighting genre since its arcade debut in 2006. Spencer’s journey with the game began in Japanese arcades, and his long-awaited transition to PC gaming has only deepened his appreciation for this classic. The game’s fluid combat mechanics and stunning graphics, now enhanced with rollback netcode for online play, have rekindled his passion. Despite minor bugs and balance issues, Spencer believes that the beta has successfully introduced new players to the franchise, paving the way for its official release in January.
Nick McCaskey – Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven
Nick’s gaming year was defined by a select few titles, with Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven emerging as a standout. This classic JRPG captivated him with its engaging mechanics, prompting multiple playthroughs to unlock every achievement. Alongside Dragon’s Dogma 2, which he explored for over 120 hours, Nick’s affinity for RPGs that reward dedication shines through. He also highlights the Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree expansion as a worthy mention, as it allowed him to revisit the base game and delve deeper into its rich world. Looking ahead, Nick expresses a desire to explore simpler, single-playthrough games in early 2025, though he acknowledges the allure of sprawling narratives that often draw him back in.
John Papadopoulos – Silent Hill 2 Remake
John faced a challenging decision in selecting his GOTY, ultimately leaning towards Silent Hill 2 Remake. While he enjoyed titles like Tekken 8 and Space Marine 2, he found the remake to be a standout experience. The game retains the haunting atmosphere of the original while delivering a mature narrative that resonates deeply. John praises the developers for their commitment to preserving the essence of the original story, creating a dark and immersive experience. Despite some traversal stutters, the game’s stunning visuals and engaging combat mechanics have left a lasting impression. John particularly appreciates the satisfying conclusion, a rarity in modern gaming, which provides a sense of closure rather than merely teasing future content.
