Title: Who Will Claim the Title of GOTY 2024? A Look at the Contenders
As we approach the end of 2024, the gaming community is abuzz with discussions about which game will take home the coveted title of Game of the Year (GOTY). The GOTY award is one of the most prestigious honors in the gaming industry, recognizing a game for its exceptional quality in gameplay, storytelling, design, and innovation. While we still have a few weeks to go before the official nominees are revealed, several titles have already made a strong case for inclusion. In this blog, we’ll take a look at the top contenders for Game of the Year 2024 and break down what makes each of them special.
1. Starfield – Bethesda's Ambitious Space RPG
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Platform(s): PC, Xbox Series X/S
When Starfield launched in September 2024, it was the most highly anticipated game of the year. After over two decades of development and delays, Bethesda's first new IP in nearly 30 years delivered a vast, immersive space-faring experience. With a universe of over 1,000 planets to explore, the game allows players to experience everything from deep space exploration to intergalactic combat and crafting.
Starfield shines not just for its scale, but also for its deep role-playing systems. It delivers everything we expect from a Bethesda RPG—an engaging main quest, side quests full of choice, and the freedom to create your own story. The game’s vast lore, detailed world-building, and stellar soundtrack have earned it praise from critics and fans alike. Though it had some bugs at launch (a common trait in Bethesda games), patches and updates have improved the experience significantly, allowing it to remain a strong GOTY contender.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – A Masterpiece in Open-World Design
Developer: Nintendo
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Following the massive success of Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom hit the Switch in early 2024, and it immediately captured the gaming world's attention. Building on the foundation laid by its predecessor, the game expands the open world with new mechanics, puzzles, and a fresh story that delves deeper into Hyrule’s history.
The standout feature in Tears of the Kingdom is the introduction of the “Sky Islands,” which adds vertical exploration to the already expansive world. The game’s puzzles, combat, and environmental interactions are smarter than ever, and its sense of freedom is second to none. The game’s narrative, which deals with the origins of Link’s powers and the ancient calamities of Hyrule, is emotionally resonant, pushing the boundaries of storytelling in the Zelda series. Tears of the Kingdom isn’t just another sequel; it’s a genuine evolution of the open-world genre.
3. Spider-Man 2 – Web-Slinging to New Heights
Developer: Insomniac Games
Platform(s): PlayStation 5
The first Spider-Man game in 2018 was a breakout hit, and its sequel, Spider-Man 2, raised the stakes by introducing not one but two playable Spider-Men: Peter Parker and Miles Morales. The game offers a stunning open-world New York City, now even more alive with incredible combat, web-slinging, and breathtaking set pieces.
Spider-Man 2 doesn’t just look fantastic, it also innovates with its dual-protagonist mechanics, allowing players to switch between Peter and Miles at any time, each with their own set of powers and storylines. The game has also improved upon the original’s combat, introducing new abilities, gadgets, and a much more nuanced narrative. It’s a thrilling superhero experience that stands out not only for its action but also for its exploration of heroism, responsibility, and identity.
4. Baldur’s Gate 3 – The RPG That Redefined Storytelling
Developer: Larian Studios
Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
Though Baldur's Gate 3 initially released in early access, the full launch in 2024 cemented its status as one of the best role-playing games of the decade. A direct sequel to the classic Baldur's Gate games, it combines the strategic depth of Dungeons & Dragons with a fully realized narrative and rich character interactions.
Larian Studios’ commitment to player choice and consequence is unmatched. Every action has weight, and the game’s branching storylines and character interactions feel deeply personal. The attention to detail in world-building, the humor, the emotional depth, and the expansive combat system have made Baldur’s Gate 3 a true standout. Players can experience the game solo or in co-op mode, and the game’s online multiplayer features are also a huge draw. Critics have hailed it as an RPG masterpiece, and it has earned massive praise for its innovative approach to interactive storytelling.
5. Horizon Forbidden West: Dawn of the Lost – The Evolution of Aloy’s Journey
Developer: Guerrilla Games
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, PC
The Horizon series has always been a standout in the open-world genre, and Horizon Forbidden West: Dawn of the Lost builds upon everything its predecessors did so well. This sequel continues Aloy’s story as she ventures into new territories, encounters new factions, and discovers new robotic creatures.
The game takes everything players loved about Horizon Zero Dawn and expands it, with improved combat mechanics, stunning visuals, and a deeper, more personal narrative. Aloy’s journey in Dawn of the Lost not only explores the mysterious remnants of an ancient civilization but also delves into more emotional beats surrounding her identity and her place in the world. Its vast world, gorgeous landscapes, and compelling story make it one of the top games of 2024.
6. Resident Evil 9 – A Return to Horror Excellence
Developer: Capcom
Platform(s): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Capcom’s Resident Evil franchise has always been a strong contender in the survival-horror genre, and Resident Evil 9 brings the series back to its roots with an unforgettable horror experience. Taking place in a gothic European setting, RE9 delivers a haunting narrative filled with terrifying monsters, deep atmosphere, and puzzles that make you think twice before you pull the trigger.
The game blends classic survival horror elements with modern mechanics, resulting in a title that’s both nostalgic and innovative. From terrifying encounters with mutated creatures to mind-bending puzzles, Resident Evil 9 is shaping up to be a GOTY contender that promises to frighten, challenge, and entertain.
Conclusion: Who Will Take Home the Trophy?
While the competition is fierce, Starfield, Tears of the Kingdom, and Spider-Man 2 seem like the frontrunners for the 2024 GOTY title. However, Baldur's Gate 3 and Horizon Forbidden West: Dawn of the Lost are also formidable challengers, with their immersive worlds, rich narratives, and innovative gameplay. Ultimately, the 2024 GOTY race could come down to the emotional impact of the story, the depth of gameplay, and the lasting impression these titles leave on players.
One thing is for sure: no matter who takes home the award, 2024 has been an incredible year for gaming, and these titles represent the very best the medium has to offer. As we await the official announcements, it’s clear that 2024 will be remembered as a milestone year in the history of video games.
What do you think? Do you have a favorite GOTY contender? Let us know in the comments!