By Boluwatife Oshadiya , a Nigerian Journalist
Video games, once a niche form of entertainment, have evolved into a global cultural phenomenon. With stunning graphics, immersive storylines, and innovative gameplay, games are no longer just for kids; they’re a medium for art, storytelling, and even social commentary.
Let’s dive into the digital realm and explore the ten best games that have captivated players in Nigeria and beyond this year.
A New Era of Gaming
2024 has been a banner year for the gaming industry. From open-world adventures to competitive esports titles, there’s something for everyone. This list highlights games that have pushed the boundaries of storytelling, visuals, and gameplay, offering players unforgettable experiences.
1. Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
FromSoftware’s masterpiece continues to reign supreme. This expansion pack builds upon the already expansive world of Elden Ring, introducing new challenges, characters, and mysteries to unravel. Fans of the original will be delighted by the fresh content, while newcomers can easily jump in and experience the game’s unique blend of action RPG and exploration.
2. Dragon’s Dogma 2
Twelve years in the making, Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a long-awaited sequel that lives up to the hype. The game’s combat is fluid and satisfying, the world is breathtakingly beautiful, and the character development is deep and engaging. It’s a must-play for fans of open-world RPGs.
3. Tekken 8
Tekken is back and better than ever. With stunning visuals, a revamped fighting system, and a roster of iconic characters, Tekken 8 is a dream come true for fighting game enthusiasts. The game’s online matchmaking is also top-notch, ensuring players can find opponents at their skill level.
4. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
This entry in the Yakuza franchise is a delightful blend of action, comedy, and role-playing. The game’s setting in modern-day Yokohama is vibrant and full of life, and the characters are as charming as ever. Whether you’re exploring the city, engaging in thrilling combat, or managing your business empire, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth offers endless entertainment.
5. Hades 2
Supergiant Games’ follow-up to the critically acclaimed Hades is another triumph. The game’s roguelike structure is addictive, the combat is fast-paced and satisfying, and the story is rich and engaging. With a new protagonist and expanded mythology, Hades 2 offers a fresh take on the genre while staying true to its predecessor’s core strengths.
6. Persona 3 Reload
This remake of the beloved Persona 3 brings the classic RPG to a new generation of players with updated graphics, improved gameplay, and enhanced visuals. The game’s coming-of-age story, combined with its thrilling dungeon-crawling and social simulation elements, continues to resonate with players.
7. Balatro
A unique blend of roguelike and poker, Balatro is a refreshing take on both genres. The game’s strategic depth and addictive gameplay loop keep players coming back for more. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for a challenging and rewarding experience.
8. Unicorn Overlord
Vanillaware’s latest offering is a visually stunning strategy RPG that combines tactical combat with a captivating story. The game’s art style is reminiscent of classic anime, and the characters are both charming and memorable.
9. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
This reboot of the classic franchise is a thrilling action-adventure game that captures the spirit of the original while offering a fresh perspective. With fluid parkour mechanics, challenging puzzles, and a captivating story, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a must-play for fans of the genre.
10. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
This long-awaited remake of the beloved GameCube classic is a faithful retelling of the original story with improved graphics and gameplay. The game’s charming characters, witty humor, and engaging puzzles make it a joy to play.
The Impact of Gaming in Nigeria
The gaming industry is rapidly growing in Nigeria, with a burgeoning community of players and developers. These games represent just a fraction of the amazing titles released this year, and it’s exciting to see the industry continue to evolve and thrive in our country.
As technology advances, we can expect even more immersive and innovative games to emerge. The future of gaming in Nigeria is bright, and it’s an exciting time to be a player.
What are your favorite games of 2024 so far? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
