The gaming landscape on Steam in 2024 has been vibrant and diverse, offering players a wide array of experiences across various genres. As we delve into the top 5 rated games on the platform this year, we’ll explore titles that have not only captured the attention of critics but have also resonated strongly with the Steam community. These games have managed to stand out in a crowded marketplace, earning high praise from players for their innovative gameplay, compelling narratives, and overall quality. From indie darlings to major releases, these top-rated titles showcase the best that Steam has to offer in 2024.
1. Balatro
Developed by LocalThunk and published by Playstack, Balatro has taken the Steam community by storm since its release on February 20, 2024. This innovative roguelike deckbuilder puts a psychedelic spin on poker, offering a unique blend of traditional card gameplay with roguelike elements. Balatro’s success lies in its ability to take a familiar concept and transform it into something entirely new and addictive. The game features a variety of special cards, including holographic, steel, and gold versions, each offering unique multipliers or additional chips. The introduction of tarot cards adds another layer of strategy, altering the player’s deck in unexpected ways. With its “Very Positive” rating on Steam and a critic score of 90, Balatro has proven to be one of the most engaging and well-received titles of the year.
2. Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
FromSoftware and Bandai Namco Entertainment have outdone themselves with the highly anticipated expansion to 2022’s Game of the Year. Released on June 21, 2024, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has received overwhelming praise from both critics and players alike, boasting an impressive 95 Metacritic score. Available on PC via Steam, this DLC takes players to new, treacherous realms within the Lands Between. Shadow of the Erdtree introduces challenging new bosses, an array of weapons and spells, and expands on the rich lore of the Elden Ring universe. The expansion’s seamless integration with the base game, coupled with its trademark difficulty and stunning environmental design, has cemented its place as one of the highest-rated releases on Steam this year.
3. Animal Well
Developed by Shared Memory and published by Bigmode, Animal Well made its debut on Steam on May 9, 2024. This atmospheric puzzle-platformer has captivated players with its unique blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and subtle horror elements. Animal Well’s pixelated art style belies the depth and complexity of its world, where players must uncover secrets and navigate through challenging environments. The game’s innovative use of light and shadow, combined with its haunting soundtrack, creates an immersive experience that has resonated strongly with the Steam community. With a Metacritic score of 90 and overwhelmingly positive user reviews, Animal Well stands as one of the top-rated indie gems on Steam this year.
4. Tekken 8
Bandai Namco Studios has delivered another knockout with Tekken 8, released on January 26, 2024. This latest installment in the legendary fighting game series has set a new standard for the genre on PC. Tekken 8 boasts stunning visuals, taking full advantage of modern hardware to deliver fluid, high-fidelity battles. The game introduces new mechanics that add depth to its already robust combat system, while also featuring an extensive roster of both returning favorites and exciting new characters. With a strong focus on single-player content alongside its competitive multiplayer modes, Tekken 8 has something for every type of fighting game enthusiast. Its Metacritic score of 90 and “Very Positive” Steam reviews reflect the game’s success in satisfying both longtime fans and newcomers to the series.
5. Thank Goodness You’re Here!
Rounding out our top 5 is the delightfully quirky Thank Goodness You’re Here!, developed by Coal Supper and published by Panic Inc. Released on August 1, 2024, this innovative game has charmed Steam users with its unique premise and execution. Players find themselves thrust into various absurd scenarios, tasked with improvising their way through using only context clues and their wit. The game’s clever writing, coupled with its charming art style, has earned it a Metacritic score of 90 and enthusiastic praise from the Steam community. Thank Goodness You’re Here! stands out as a fresh and entertaining experience that showcases the creativity thriving in the indie game space.
These five games represent the cream of the crop on Steam in 2024, each offering a unique and highly praised gaming experience. From innovative card games to expansive RPGs, intense fighting games to atmospheric platformers, and quirky improvisation challenges, this diverse lineup demonstrates the richness and quality of titles available on
