The 2024 Gaming Calendar: The Most Anticipated Releases of the Year!

Liam Crowley

2024 holds a lot of promise for the world of gaming, delivering an array of highly anticipated games that will continue to redefine interactive entertainment. As we close in on the end of 2023, the build up for 2024 has already begun. Let’s take a closer look at some releases across multiple gaming platforms that are coming for us in the next year. We’ll mainly be focusing on the first quarter of 2024 as there’s still limited information about the latter parts of 2024. Let’s dive in and see what’s waiting for us in the new year.

Alone In The Dark – (Jan 16th 2024)

Releasing on: PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5

This was originally due to release in October of 2023 but because October was jam packed with game releases, THQ Nordic and Pieces Interactive delayed the release until January 2024. A good move as it gives gamers a chance to embrace October’s gaming additions and gives the 2 teams more time to further perfect this masterpiece.

The original Alone In The Dark was released back in 1992 for PC and revolutionised the survival horror genre. This remake also gives us a completely different perspective to the 1992 release. Alone In The Dark will be played from a third-person viewpoint, whereas the original gave us permanently fixed camera angles, which actually went on to inspire the playstyle of Resident Evil.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown (Jan 18th 2024)

Releasing on: Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC

Ubisoft are taking Prince of Persia back to its 2D roots with this release. The Lost Crown still honours the adventure series’ iconic time control aspect of the game – but this time it’s in the hands of the villain. You’re also playing from the perspective of a different character this time around. You’ll fill the shoes of Sargon, a member of an elite group called ‘The Immortals’ as you scroll your way through the story of the game. Ubisoft Montreal created the ever so popular Sands of Time addition to this series whereas this time, Ubisoft have left this in the hands of another studio within their company – a studio that has a very strong 2D heritage. It’s safe to say we’ve been left in good hands for this one.

Tekken 8 (Jan 26th 2024)

Releasing on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC

Tekken 8 will actually be the 10th overall game within the series, but is the 8th mainline Tekken game, and it’s come a long way since its original release back in the ‘90s. Bandai Namco has kept things quiet when it comes to promotional content revolving around the release. What we do know is that this addition will be entirely cross platform so you’ll never miss out on playing with friends who own different consoles. We also have 32 confirmed characters to be on the games base roster, some of them being returning regulars of the series, as well as some new additions – which then bring new fighting mechanics and play styles. For those who love a good Beat ‘Em Up, get Tekken 8 added to your calendar to spruce up your January.

Tomb Raider Remastered (Feb 14th 2024)

Releasing on: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC

This is an extreme nostalgia dream for those who played the Playstation back in the ‘90s. Crystal Dynamics have announced that they will be releasing Tomb Raider 1 through 3 as a remastered three-game bundle. This remastered edition will include upgraded graphics and performance enhancements, complete with additional secret levels as well as additional expansions. Gamers will also have the option to toggle between the enhanced graphics or take a trip down memory lane and switch back to the original graphics of 1996. There will also be a few quality of life improvements, including lockable camera angles and additional achievements. If you’re looking at another lonely Valentine’s Day – at least Lara Croft can keep you company.

Mario vs. Donkey Kong (Feb 16th 2024)

Releasing on: Nintendo Switch

Nintendo have been releasing a constant stream of new Mario games and next on the list is the new Mario vs. Donkey Kong remaster. The original was released way back in 2004 and this up-to-date version will feature notable changes, including updated graphics and new twists to co-op mode. The main storyline has not changed, with Mario still going after Donkey Kong to get back the stolen Mini Marios. Another one to keep an eye on if you’re looking for that nostalgic kick.

Nightingale (Feb 22nd 2024)

Releasing on: PC

Nightingale is an upcoming survival crafting game set in the mystical Fae realms. Players can explore, build, craft and fight across visually stunning landscapes, following a post-apocalyptic storyline set in a parallel universe. The developers at Inflexion games promise to offer a unique and immersive experience for those looking for fantasy and adventure. Gamers play the role of Realmwalkers, who can travel between different realms with varying biomes. The developers have also highlighted that staying fed, dry and well rested should be gamers top priority when exploring the Fae realms, as the ‘survival’ aspect of this crafting game holds utmost importance.

Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth (Feb 29th 2024)

Releasing on: Playstation 5

Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth is the highly anticipated remake of the classic 1997 game that launched the RPG genre into the stratosphere. This is the final part of the 3-part remake that concludes the epic saga, with the first being released in 2020 and the second in 2022. The remake will feature stunning graphics, a revamped combat system, expanded story as well as new characters. One thing that has remained the same is the thrilling turn-based mechanics play style that fans are familiar with – although there is a new addition of Synergy Skills. These types of attacks combine the strength of two party members to dish out double-team assaults. As the developers are sticking to their roots, fans of the original game and new players can finish up the final chapter of one of the most popular saga’s of all time.

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl (Q1 of 2024)

Releasing on: Xbox Series X/S, PC

We don’t have an exact date for this release as of yet but due to information appearing on the official website and Steam, we’re hoping for an April release. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is the sequel to the cult classic 2007 game that blended survival horror, first-person shooter and role-playing elements. The game is set in the radioactive wasteland known as the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, filled with anomalies and mutants. Gamers take on the role of a stalker – a scavenger who explores the Zone, uncovering secrets and artifacts along the way. The game features a massive open world and riveting weather conditions and follows a nonlinear story, giving the player more freedom to explore and fully immerse themselves within this radioactive landscape.

Liam Crowley
+ posts