What’s up, nerds? As we usher in 2024, the gaming landscape is ablaze with new releases that promise to captivate and thrill. This January offers a decent variety of titles to hold us off until the heavy hitters release in February, but this diverse array of titles each brings its unique flavor and excitement. Here’s a rundown of the top 10 video games we think should have your attention this month.
Momodora: Moonlit Farewell (PC | January 11, 2024)
In Momodora: Moonlit Farewell, players join Momo Reinol, the High Priestess of Koho village, on a divine mission to confront a demon invasion triggered by a mysterious bellringer. Set five years after the events of Momodora III, this latest installment in the Momodora series weaves a story of calamity and hope. The game’s creator, rdein, promises a concluding story that not only ties up loose ends from previous games but is also accessible to newcomers, focusing on action and a minimalistic storytelling approach.
The game’s aesthetics stand out with its gorgeous pixel art, bringing to life a world rich in lore and atmosphere. Gameplay revolves around melee combos, dodging, and archery, with the unique “Sigil” system offering customizable playstyles. Players can engage in intense boss battles and explore the world at their own pace, thanks to adjustable difficulty levels. This installment is set to be a culmination of a decade’s worth of development, offering both a satisfying conclusion and a fresh start for new players.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown ( | January 18, 2024)
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown introduces players to Sargon, a young warrior from The Immortals clan, on a quest to rescue Prince Ghassan from the cursed city of Mount Qaf. This 2.5D side-scrolling action-adventure game combines platforming with intricate combat. Sargon’s abilities, including air dashes, blade combat, and time-based powers like Rush and Shadow of the Simurgh, add depth to the gameplay. The game also features Metroidvania elements, with an interconnected world filled with puzzles, shortcuts, and secret rooms.
Developed by Ubisoft Montpellier, known for the Rayman series, the game is heavily inspired by Persian mythology, featuring monsters like the manticore as boss characters. The narrative focuses on bringing Persian mythology to a broader audience, with modern visual designs inspired by urban culture and fashion. Sargon’s portrayal as an agile and acrobatic warrior marks a modernization of the franchise’s image, and the game’s use of Unreal Engine 5 promises a more cinematic fighting environment.
Another Code: Recollection (Switch | January 19, 2024)
Another Code: Recollection brings to the Nintendo Switch remakes of the adventure games Another Code: Two Memories and its sequel, Another Code: R – A Journey into Lost Memories. This collection marks the first North American release of the sequel and features overhauled visuals, fully explorable environments, new voice acting, puzzles, and music. The game supports multiple languages and play modes, catering to both beginners and veterans.
The first game, Another Code: Two Memories, follows 13-year-old Ashley Mizuki Robbins on her quest to uncover the truth about her father and her childhood. The game utilizes the Nintendo DS hardware for unique puzzle-solving experiences. The sequel, Another Code: R, shifts to a 3D world and incorporates Wii Remote motion controls for puzzle-solving. Both games are celebrated for their engaging narratives and innovative use of console features, making this collection a treasure trove for adventure game enthusiasts.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (PS4, PS5, XBO, XBX, PC | January 26, 2024)
Set in 2023, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth follows Ichiban Kasuga and Kazuma Kiryu on a new adventure in Yokohama and Honolulu. The game retains the turn-based combat system of its predecessor, with each character having unique “jobs” that influence their combat style. Kiryu’s “Dragon of Dojima” job allows for multiple fighting styles and temporary real-time combat.
In addition to classic minigames, new activities like Crazy Delivery and Sujimon Battle enrich the experience. A major side activity, Happy Resort Dondoko Island, lets players manage their resort, blending resource gathering and social interactions. The game’s premise revolves around Kasuga’s search for his biological mother and Kiryu’s battle with cancer, adding emotional depth to the narrative. With returning characters and new faces, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth promises a rich, character-driven story.
Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy (PS4, XBO, Switch, PC | January 25, 2024)
Embark on a legal odyssey with Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy, a collection that brings together 3 titles and 16 episodes of courtroom drama and mystery. Join rookie attorney Apollo Justice and his mentor, the iconic Phoenix Wright, as they navigate the twists and turns of the legal world. This collection includes the complete stories of “Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney”, “Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney – Dual Destinies”, and “Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney – Spirit of Justice”, along with two special DLC episodes.
Fans of the series will appreciate the array of extras, such as Orchestra Hall, where you can listen to in-game music and orchestral arrangements, and the Art Library, offering a visual feast of illustrations and design specs. The Animation Studio feature allows players to manipulate character animations, bringing favorite scenes to life. The game supports multiple languages, allowing for a diverse and customizable experience. It’s a beautifully renovated collection that maintains the essence of the original games while enhancing the player experience.
UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II [Sys:Celes] (PS4, PS5, Switch, PC | January 25, 2024)
UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II [Sys:Celes] is meant to provide a dramatic close to the “Hollow Night” storyline. This action fighting game is packed with a fully original story, high-quality pixel art visuals, and a compelling soundtrack. The game follows Hyde, a high school student whose life changes after meeting Linne and awakening his EXS powers.
The sequel enhances the battle experience with new mechanics like the Celestial state, which fills the GRD gauge, and Creeping Edge, adding strategic depth to combat. The game features 21 returning characters, including fan-favorites Eltnum and Akatsuki, and introduces new characters Tsurugi, Kaguya, and Kuon. The implementation of Rollback Netcode and enhanced network features make for smooth online battles. With expanded move lists, new abilities, and finely-tuned balances, this title is a testament to the evolution of the series and a must-play for fans of the genre.
Tekken 8 (PS5, XBX, PC | January 26, 2024)
Set six months after Tekken 7, Tekken 8 focuses on the final showdown between Kazuya Mishima and Jin Kazama. The game emphasizes aggressiveness, introducing a new “Heat” gauge system that enhances combat dynamics. The Heat State offers chip damage and new move sets, changing some characters’ fighting styles. The game also features a new juggle combo extender system and a focus on cinematic environments, including stage destruction.
Developed with Unreal Engine 5, Tekken 8 promises improved character models and an exclusive online mode, “Arcade Quest,” featuring an avatar-based battle hub lobby. With a more narrative-driven approach, the game is poised to conclude the longstanding feud in the Mishima family, providing a fresh take on the series while retaining its core fighting mechanics.
BlazBlue Entropy Effect (PC | January 1, 2024)
BlazBlue Entropy Effect is a riveting 2D-action-roguelike game developed by 91Act. The game is set in a world where reality and illusion intertwine, players can explore various worlds, each with its unique style – from neon-lit wharfs to desolate ruins and secretive natural laboratories. The game, currently in Early Access on Steam, is expected to fully launch in the first quarter of 2024.
As a derivative of the original Blazblue license, BlazBlue Entropy Effect stands out with its roguelite action gameplay. Players face unknown enemies and uncover hidden stories in each run, evolving and becoming stronger through the chaos of battle. The game promises a deep and replayable experience, offering a fresh perspective on the Blazblue universe.
Yuuna and the Haunted Hot Springs The Thrilling Steamy Maze Kiwami (PS5, Switch, PC | January 17, 2024)
Dive into the unique RPG world of Yuuna and the Haunted Hot Springs The Thrilling Steamy Maze Kiwami. This game combines the thrill of dungeon exploration with the relaxation of hot springs, offering a one-of-a-kind roguelike RPG experience. Players embark on a mission to save Kogarashi by navigating through ever-changing dungeons, each layout different every time you enter.
In this game, hot springs are more than just a place to relax; they power up your characters, though be wary of clothing damage! The game boasts a unique story, special event images, and fully voiced character interactions by the cast of the animated series. With over 15 types of costumes, each affecting gameplay in unique ways, players can customize their experience. The game also caters to different playstyles with support items for those who find the dungeons challenging. It’s an adventurous, whimsical, and immersive RPG experience like no other.
Angelic☆Chaos RE-BOOT! (PC | TBA)
Angelic☆Chaos RE-BOOT! is set in a regional city in Kansai, Japan, where the protagonist, Riku Tanikaze, lives a normal life with his parents and younger sister. Recently, Riku has been troubled by nightmares of being consumed by flames in darkness, and during a class nap, he dreams of a mysterious angelic girl who saves him from the flames with a kiss.
As if things couldn’t get any stranger, after returning home, Riku’s frustration grows as he finds out he might have a mild case of ED. Despite his sister Amane’s attempts to console him, they find no solution, but then the angel from his dreams, Noa Shirayuki, appears, revealing that Riku is the reincarnation of a Demon Lord, and she has come from Heaven to protect him. Their lives are further complicated by the arrival of Kaguya Hosikawa from the demon world and her servant Oriet Takadate. Riku’s sister Amane, classmate Kurumi Kohibari, and childhood friend and teacher Fumika Ozato also become entangled in the chaos. Riku’s once-peaceful life is turned upside down as he navigates these new, tumultuous relationships and revelations, but the biggest hurdle of them all might be the ED we mentioned before.
January 2024 presents a decent gaming banquet, with each title offering its own unique blend of story, gameplay, and innovation. From action-packed adventures to intricate narratives, there’s something for every type of gamer. These releases not only entertain but also showcase the creativity and diversity of the gaming industry. Happy gaming, and be sure to tell us what you’re interested in.
