2024's Best Games Channeled the Heart and Soul of the '90s

2024's Best Games Channeled the Heart and Soul of the '90s

2024 witnessed a surprising resurgence of classic game design principles. Titles like Metaphor: ReFantazio, Astro Bot, and the indie sensation Balatro captivated players by reimagining and refining genres from bygone eras. This nostalgic turn proved to be a refreshing antidote to the industry's current obsession with massive, live-service experiences. Metaphor: ReFantazio: A Turn-Based Triumph Persona developer Atlus once again pushed the boundaries of turn-based RPGs with Metaphor: ReFantazio. The game's combat system stands as a testament to innovative design. Atlus masterfully integrated a unique ability system that thrives on anticipation and anxiety. Consequential Combat: Characters wield powerful summons with unique strengths and weaknesses. Exploiting enemy weaknesses or falling prey to their own can drastically shift the tide of battle. Every action carries weight, as players grapple with uncertainty and the potential for devastating consequences. Redefining Turn-Based Gam…