
Top Video Games for Holiday 2024: A Comprehensive Guide | Image Source: Pexels.com
NEW YORK, Dec. 10, 2024 — As the holiday season approaches, gaming enthusiasts and gift-givers alike are on the lookout for the best video games to either enjoy themselves or share with loved ones. According to Marc Saltzman of USA TODAY, the 2024 lineup features a diverse array of options catering to various age groups and interests. From thrilling adventures to engaging puzzles, these games are perfect for both experienced players and casual gamers. Here’s a roundup of the top video games for the season.
Games for Kids: Family-Friendly Fun
For younger audiences, the PlayStation 5 exclusive, Astro Bot, offers a delightful 3D platforming experience. Players guide the charming robot, Astro, as he navigates precarious situations to rescue his crewmates and rebuild his spaceship. With responsive controls, haptic feedback, and sound effects through the DualSense controller, the game provides an immersive experience, according to USA TODAY. Additionally, fans of Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda series can explore Echoes of Wisdom on the Switch. This installment puts Princess Zelda in the spotlight as she solves puzzles and battles enemies to rescue Link and save Hyrule from mysterious rifts.
For families looking to stay active, Just Dance 2025 Edition delivers hours of fun with a playlist featuring hits from artists like Ariana Grande and Billie Eilish. Available across PS5, Xbox Series S/X, and Nintendo Switch, it also includes a VR option for Meta Quest users, making it an interactive holiday favorite. Honorable mentions for kids include Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, Lego Horizon Adventures, and Palworld.
Games for Teens: Action and Adventure
Teen gamers have much to look forward to this year, with titles like Black Myth: Wukong taking center stage. Developed by Game Science, this action RPG is inspired by Chinese mythology and follows the tale of the “Monkey King” as he battles through iconic locations such as Black Wind Mountain and Flaming Mountains. Its combination of stunning visuals and engaging combat mechanics has made it one of 2024’s most talked-about releases.
Basketball enthusiasts can enjoy NBA 2K25, a game that caters to players of all skill levels. With thousands of new animations, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and a more interactive city, this installment continues to redefine the sports simulation genre. Meanwhile, Star Wars fans will find themselves immersed in the open-world adventure Star Wars Outlaws. Featuring Kay Vess, a young thief, and her companion Nix, the game combines stealth missions, space battles, and decision-driven storytelling. Other notable mentions for teens include Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle.
Games for Adults: Epic Adventures and Thrilling Combat
Adults looking for challenging gameplay can delve into Helldivers II, a cooperative third-person shooter from Sony Interactive Entertainment. Available on PS5 and PC, this game pits players against intergalactic threats, offering a mix of humor and strategy. Missions range from eliminating alien nests to deploying powerful artillery in large-scale battles. As per USA TODAY, the game’s cross-platform multiplayer capabilities and budget-friendly pricing make it a standout choice this season.
Capcom’s Dragon’s Dogma 2 is another highlight, offering an expansive RPG experience with rich storytelling and dynamic combat. Players assume the role of an Arisen, tasked with confronting a dragon that has stolen their heart. The game’s Medieval-inspired setting, combined with the ability to customize characters and engage in intricate battles, makes it an epic adventure. Other noteworthy games for adults include Silent Hill 2, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, and Stellar Blade.
Honorable Mentions Across Categories
In addition to the games listed, several other titles deserve recognition for their unique gameplay and appeal. For kids, Palworld offers a blend of creature-catching mechanics and cooperative play. Teen gamers may find Metaphor: ReFantazio intriguing for its blend of JRPG elements and innovative storytelling. Adults can look forward to Stellar Blade, a visually stunning action game with intense combat scenarios. These titles, while not headliners, add depth to the already impressive list of 2024’s offerings.
With options ranging from family-friendly adventures to high-stakes RPGs, this year’s gaming lineup has something for everyone. Whether you’re shopping for the holidays or planning a staycation, these games are sure to provide countless hours of entertainment. As Marc Saltzman noted, the diversity in gameplay and storytelling ensures that players of all ages can find something they’ll enjoy.