Hello everyone! 2024 was another incredible year for indie games, and today, I’m very excited to share 11 of my favorite titles that were released on PlayStation this year.
Pacific Drive is a ‘road-lite’ survival game, where you navigate a stormy, mysterious forest with your car as your only companion. Each time you set off on an excursion, your car will slowly breakdown due to strange anomalies, and you must return safely back to your garage. Otherwise, you’re required to start over. You can restore and upgrade your car with resources gathered during your runs. Each trip into the wilderness is unique and randomized, which makes the gameplay all the more engrossing and addicting.
The pixel-art world of this beautiful game feels nostalgic yet somehow completely novel, with its surreal lighting that illuminates the map. Animal Well is a Metroidvania with a world filled with endless surprises. The sense of accomplishment you’ll feel after conquering its challenging platform sections and cryptic puzzles is truly unique and exhilarating.
The massively popular vampire survival PC game is now available on PlayStation. Players awaken as weakened vampires and hunt for the blood of enemies and animals to regain strength and acquire their powers to conquer the map. As vampires, players are vulnerable to sunlight. You must hide in the shadows and avoid sun exposure in order to survive during the daytime.
When you were a child, did you ever pretend that you could only move around by jumping from shadow to shadow? SCHiM allows you to relive those nostalgic moments by playing as a frog-like creature who can only navigate the map by hopping between shadows. It’s also a visually stunning game with its unique color pallet and art style.
Plucky Squire is a charming action adventure where you jump between 2D and 3D worlds.
One moment, you’re enjoying a 2D action game inside the pages of a storybook, but the next second, you’re embarking on an adventure in the outside 3D realm, and before you know it, you’re back inside the book, solving puzzles. Full of delightful gimmicks, the game delivers an experience that players of all ages can enjoy.
An indie game coming from Japan, Palworld is an open world, crafting and survival game full of adorable creatures (Pals), that took the gaming world by storm. The gameplay loop of collecting Pals, expanding your base, and venturing out further out into the world is very addicting and hard to put down.
The latest title from the visionary team behind GRIS, a beautiful yet heartbreaking adventure game released back in 2018. Neva chronicles the story of the player and a wolf cub, Neva, who together embark on a journey through a vibrant world that progresses from season to season. The story is told without dialogue, and the ending will move you to tears.
Fear the Spotlight is an atmospheric horror adventure featuring a retro low-polygon art style reminiscent of the original PlayStation era. Two teenage girls sneak into school after hours, only to be separated by disturbing paranormal activities. They must solve puzzles and stay out of sight of the monster who wanders the hall to be safely reunited.
From the mind of Keiichiro Toyama, the legendary creator behind Siren and Gravity Rush. During the ‘90s, Kowlong, Hong Kong, is faced with a series of gruesome murders. The player is a body-less entity that possess NPCs roaming the streets in order to battle Slitterheads, a monster that feasts on human brains. Finishing off the monsters as ordinary middle-aged men and women is an absolute blast.
A new game brought to life by Red Candle Games, the studio behind Detention and Devotion. Taking inspiration from Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, Nine Sols is a hardcore action game centered on deflection-based combat. Pulling off a perfect parry and counterattack is tremendously rewarding and invigorating. The atmosphere blends cyberpunk with ancient Chinese mythology and Taoism, is also unique and fascinating.
A fusion of poker and roguelike? You might think, “What’s that?” But once you start, you won’t be able to stop. This worldwide hit game is the creation of a single developer. Incredible!
Hello folks! This week, the crew shares their favorite games of the year in the final show of 2024. Plus, Kristen returns to share her top games from past PlayStation console generations to celebrate the 30th anniversary.
Thank you to all the developers who made this such a special year in gaming and to all the listeners for coming along for the ride. Here’s to a great year in gaming for 2025!
Stuff We Talked About
Listeners and developers share their favorite PlayStation games to mark the 30th anniversary
Kristen highlights her top games through past PlayStation console generations
The Cast
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Kristen Zitani – Senior Content Communications Specialist, SIE
Thanks to Dormilón for our rad theme song and show music.
[Editor’s note: PSN game release dates are subject to change without notice. Game details are gathered from press releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]
Last week, we asked you get in the holiday spirit with the newly released Winter Wonter level of Astro Bot, and share moments exploring using #PSshare #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights:
VrPhotoGamessshares Astro surrounded by jingle bells in the Festive Fellow outfit.
MdeavorVPshares Astro in the Festive Fellow outfit gliding down a rail
CaGamer_07shares Astro in the Festive Fellow outfit next to a snowman in an igloo
Pfannkuchennsshares Astro posing in a photo spot while reindeer and a present-filled sleigh fly by
doodlecepshares Astro in the Festive Fellow costume jumping beside a decorated tree
MBaw96shares the animal bots gathered underneath festive Astro fireworks
Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week?
THEME: Share of the Year SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on December 31, 2024
Next time, we’re looking back at an amazing year of gaming. Share your favorite moment captured in a game you played in 2024 using #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured in Share of the Year.
Hello Travelers. The Genshin Impact dev team is delighted to embark on another year of adventures with you in the world of Teyvat. Along with our heartfelt New Year’s wishes, we’re excited to share that Version 5.3, Incandescent Ode of Resurrection, will be arriving on January 1. Starting from the first day of 2025, it’s time to team up with Mavuika, the Pyro Archon, and Citlali, in the final battles against the Abyss looming over Natlan.
While the people of Natlan gather to turn the tide of their long war, the people of Liyue reunite for the annual Lantern Rite to embrace a new year. The new character, Lan Yan, and many old friends are waiting in Liyue to light up the night sky with Xiao Lanterns.
To spice up the annual celebration, bountiful rewards are available for you to claim, including Primogems ×1,600 and the new glider Wings of Fate’s Course Intertwined via in-game mail, Intertwined Fate ×10 via a daily login event, a free 4-star Liyue character via completing the Lantern Rite event, and a new outfit for Xiangling via accumulating Festive Fever in the event.
Blaze a radiant path, burn away the shadowy swaths
After a brief respite, the final battle is at hand. Warriors, blessed by the guidance and protection of the Ode of Resurrection, will stand against the monsters rising from the Abyss in the newest Archon Quest Chapter V: Act V Incandescent Ode of Resurrection. Alongside Mavuika, Citlali, and other warriors, every effort, including the power of the Ruler of Death, will be devoted to banishing the darkness that threatens to swallow the land, no matter the cost. Additionally, the power of Pyro will finally be granted to the Traveler at a pivotal moment.
To boost your combat abilities for the final battle, travel to the cave near the Masters of the Night-Wind. There, you will encounter the Wayward Hermetic Spiritspeaker, a powerful Boss, who can move quickly and conjure up multiple clones in battle.
Once you have proven your worth, another formidable Weekly Boss — the Lord of Eroded Primal Fire, the Abyssal Mimic Dragon awaits your challenge. Additionally, the Pyro Traveler may gain unexpected advantages in this battle.
The Radiant Sun and Obsidian Star
Two ladies who will shine in the legendary war to come may be recruited to your party as 5-star playable characters: Mavuika, the Pyro Archon and a claymore wielder, and Citlali, the most powerful shaman of her tribe and a Cryo catalyst user. Both illuminate their people’s paths with centuries of wisdom, exploration, know-how, and battle prowess.
From a little girl of the Scions of the Canopy to the Pyro Archon who dazzles and protects all of Natlan like the sun, Mavuika’s journey has never been easy. Yet, she never wavered. Upon completing the latest Archon Quest, Mavuika’s Story Quest will be unlocked.
In combat, Mavuika can crush her opponents with her claymore or charge into battle on her Flamestrider, a one-of-a-kind construct in Teyvat. Her Elemental Skill can summon the All-Fire Armaments, which can take on two forms. Tap to cast “Divine Name Unleashed,” and the Armaments become Rings of Searing Radiance, following Mavuika or the active character and dealing constant Nightsoul-aligned Pyro DMG. Alternatively, hold to unleash Ancient Name Unbound, transforming her All-Fire Armaments into the Flamestrider. When Mavuika mounts the Flamestrider, she can deal Pyro DMG to opponents in her path. Meanwhile, if nearby party members hit opponents with their Normal Attacks or consume Nightsoul points, she can accumulate Fighting Spirit. When her Fighting Spirit exceeds a certain amount, she can use her Elemental Burst to enter the Nightsoul’s Blessing state, mounting her Flamestrider to perform a powerful AoE Pyro attack. With her Elemental Burst, Mavuika will also enter the Crucible of Death and Life state, boosting her abilities and making her more resistant to interruption.
The Flamestrider is not only a weapon but also a versatile tool for exploration. Equipped with a hidden backup propulsion module, it allows Mavuika to scale cliffs, charge across rugged terrain and waters, and glide in mid-air. In addition, having Mavuika in your party will decrease the party’s Nightsoul Transmission cooldown by 20%. The Flamestrider blazes across the land, unrestrained and proud, a testament to her unyielding spirit. Carried on the wind, the memory of a young lady’s confident words lingers: “I can shoot those cornflakes in your kitchen from right here.”
The sun shines brilliantly, yet the stars never cease to glow at night. As the most powerful shaman of the Masters of the Night-Wind, Citlali can sense changes in the Ley Lines and feel the wounds across all of Natlan from their long war with the Abyss. Due to the damage sustained by the Night Kingdom in the war, she has been aiding the lost wandering souls who can no longer return to it. In her downtime, the respected “Granny Itztli” may prefer to stay in her remote abode alone, surrounded by light novels and snacks. She is also accompanied by her little companions Itzpapa and Citlalin, who not only add comfort as cushions and pillows but also provide various forms of support in combat and exploration.
In combat, Citlali can deploy shields and summon Itzpapa with her Elemental Skill. When her Nightsoul points exceed a certain amount, Itzpapa will deal AoE Cryo DMG to nearby opponents. Her Elemental Burst summons both little companions and creates a Spiritvessel Skull. When the skull explodes, it will deal Nightsoul-aligned Cryo DMG and restore a fixed amount of Nightsoul points to Citlali. Additionally, when Citlali is in the Nightsoul’s Blessing state, enemies hit by Frozen or Melt reactions have reduced Pyro and Hydro RES. She can maintain her Nightsoul’s Blessing state to buff the party when you switch to other characters in battle.
Team up for another year of adventure
Elsewhere in Teyvat, Liyue is currently basking in warmth and harmony as its people prepare for the arrival of Lantern Rite and the new year. In the streets of Liyue, you may encounter a new character, Lan Yan, an Anemo catalyst user, along with many familiar faces, some of whom will debut with fresh new looks in the upcoming update.
The new 4-star character, Lan Yan, is a descendant and inheritor of the renowned Qimen Arts. She is a graceful and nimble artisan, lauded as a master craftsman in the Chenyu Vale Artisans Association. In combat, Lan Yan wields the Swallow-Wisp Shield, a secret art passed down through her family for generations. When she dashes forward and hits a target, she leaps backward into the air. Furthermore, this dash attack changes the Elemental Type of her shield to Hydro, Pyro, Cryo, or Electro, allowing it to absorb the corresponding Elemental DMG and deal the corresponding Elemental DMG in return.
For Version 5.3 Event Wishes, the first phase will feature the debuts of Mavuika and Citlali, while the second phase brings reruns of Arlecchino and Clorinde, alongside the debut of Lan Yan.
To recruit more Liyue characters, players can complete special festival requirements to invite one free 4-star Liyue character, including Lan Yan. Additionally, some 5-star Liyue characters, including Ganyu and others, can be obtained through a new round of Chronicled Wish.
More fun events await you
Meeting friends is exciting, and participating in fun events doubles the joy. In Lantern Rite, try the mini-game Custom Gift Envelope to design envelopes tailored to your companions’ unique preferences. Plus, don’t forget to create envelopes filled with wishes for friends, family, or other Travelers, sealing your thoughts and memories into these tokens of affection. Also try out Immortal Combat, a Tetris-like game that allows you to use Rattan Figures to gain buffs and defeat opponents. Or try Drills by Lamplight, where you make use of stratagems during battle to boost your score. Dive into these mini-games and gather more Festive Fever to unlock a trove of exciting rewards including Xiangling’s new outfit, New Year’s Cheer. Additionally, Hu Tao’s new outfit, Cherries Snow-Laden, will be on sale with a limited-time discount.
The festive cheer manifests through music as well. With Repertoire of Myriad Melodies, the rhythm game feature is now added as a permanent mode and you can start playing, composing, and sharing your custom scores anytime with a special Gadget in your inventory. Want to take on some super-tough battles? In “On the Trail of Behemoths,” you can take on challenges of different difficulties and face off against four powerful Bosses solo or with a friend.
Last but not least, we want to say thank you to everyone who joined us on this fantastic journey in Teyvat! Together, we’ve created so many wonderful memories. Now, it’s time to release the Xiao Lanterns and celebrate Lantern Rite again. It’s also the perfect moment to ignite your inner fire and boldly embrace the as-yet-unknown, exciting adventures awaiting us in the year ahead.
It was wonderful to see the launch of the PlayStation 5 Pro console a few weeks ago. For those interested in the in-depth technical aspects of PS5 Pro, we’ve put together a video describing the bits and bytes behind the console: how it came together, how it works, and why it’s the first step in an exciting new journey for gamers. You can watch below!
Note: the below video is focused on the technology behind PS5 Pro and doesn’t feature new game announcements or new gameplay footage.
In the presentation, you’ll learn what the “advanced” in “Advanced Ray Tracing” really means, the difference between FLOPS and TOPS, and some of the challenges involved in developing the efficient machine learning hardware needed for PSSR – the AI-driven upscaling featured in PS5 Pro.
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At the end of the presentation, I also do something that we typically don’t do at SIE – I touch on how our learnings with PS5 Pro will fuel our future ambitions in our never-ending quest to push the boundaries of play. AMD has been a fantastic partner for SIE for many years now, and I’m honored to announce that we have begun a deeper collaboration with a focus on Machine Learning-based technology for graphics and gameplay. Both AMD and SIE share many of the same goals related to advancing the medium of video games. Watch the presentation to learn more about this exciting plan!
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We also did an encore presentation of this lecture before an audience including journalists from Digital Foundry, IGN, and Wccftech. Keep an eye out for their coverage, and more discussion of RDNA, ray tracing, and machine learning.
The polls for the PlayStation Game of the Year 2024 awards closed last week and with the numbers crunched – totalling over 1.6 million votes globally – we can reveal this year’s top contenders across the 19 categories, as shaped solely by your choices. While four titles earned trophies per category, there were numerous games that received support from players worldwide, either through selecting from shortlists or write-in options. A thank you to those who voted, and of course, to those creators and teams whose creativity and craft has been shared and enjoyed on PlayStation consoles the world over.
Before we dig into the winners, a quick reminder on the category guidelines:
As with the majority of the other categories, Best Multiplayer Experience focuses on titles released in 2024. Best Ongoing Game focuses on titles that have seen new, large scale content or game-changing updates launch over this past year.
Best Rerelease is categorized as titles that, in the main, feature upgraded visuals and some QoL improvements but otherwise hew close to their original launch version. This category does not include full-scale remakes of older titles. Those are eligible for Game of the Year consideration.
Due to the polls closure date, some titles weren’t eligible for inclusion. Those titles will be eligible in next year’s Awards.
If a title won a Platinum Trophy in a category any previous year, it won’t be eligible for inclusion in the same category this year to allow other titles a chance to shine. As such Grand Theft Auto VI isn’t included in The Most Anticipated Game of 2025 and Beyond category – as it earned the Platinum in 2023’s Awards.
Congratulations to everyone who released titles this year.
Best New Character
Platinum Trophy: Eve (Stellar Blade)
Gold Trophy: Jane Harrow (Call of Duty: Black Ops 6) Silver Trophy: Emmrich Volkarin (Dragon Age: The Veilguard) Bronze Trophy: Ryoma Sakamoto (Rise of the Rōnin)
The Best New Character category received the highest number of write-in votes, so a shout out to – amongst others – Metaphor: ReFantazio’s Strohl, Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail’s Wuk Lamat, and Helldivers 2’s General Brasch, all of whom have fans across the globe. The majority of the votes however were split between Stellar Blade’s Eve, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6’s Jane Harrow, Dragon Age: The Veilguard’s Emmrich Volkarin and Rise of the Rōnin’s Ryoma Sakamoto.
Best Story
Platinum Trophy: Silent Hill 2
Gold Trophy: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Silver Trophy: Stellar Blade Bronze Trophy: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
The Best Story category had strong competition this year, including new gripping narratives in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Stellar Blade. Two unforgettable remakes duked it out for top position: Silent Hill 2 and Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth. The votes for number one were remarkably close.
Ultimately, James Sunderland’s surreal return trip to Silent Hill took the top spot. Bloober Team and Konami’s remake of this PS2 classic captured the dreamlike essence of the original title while enhancing it with high-fidelity facial capture to add extra nuance to the town’s troubled visitors. We’ll see Silent Hill 2 in our restless dreams for years.
Best Graphical Showcase
Platinum Trophy: Black Myth: Wukong
Gold Trophy: Astro Bot Silver Trophy: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Bronze Trophy: Stellar Blade
You know that moment when you’re playing a game and you just have to stop and say wow? 2024 has been choc-full of those thanks to a line-up of gorgeous games which have pushed the boundaries of what is possible graphically. Adventures like Stellar Blade and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth brought a realistic style to their fantastic worlds, while the bright and playful planets inhabited by Astro and his bot buddies captured the hearts (and eyes) of gamers everywhere.
Perhaps one of the most memorable of those moments is the opening of Black Myth: Wukong, which sees you raising your staff in a stunning fight amidst the clouds. But that’s just the beginning; the action epic’s towering mountains, dense forests and glistening snowfields really highlighted just how beautiful PS5’s visuals can be, helping it claim this year’s Platinum trophy.
Best Art Direction
Platinum Trophy: Astro Bot
Gold Trophy: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Silver Trophy: Silent Hill 2 Bronze Trophy: Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero
The games of 2024 brought top-tier artistic visions to life, from harrowing horrors to fantastical creatures. Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero captured the source material perfectly, Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth featured top-tier character and boss design, while Silent Hill 2 beautifully recaptured the moody atmosphere of the PS2 original with a fresh aesthetic.
However, Team Asobi’s Astro Bot leaped up to claim top prize in the category. The platforming adventure’s Bots sport loving homages to classic game characters decked out in gear that thoughtfully distills the original character design. Each stage is a visual banger to boot, including inventive knife-juggling ghosts, traditional Japanese architecture, and outlandish sci-fi contraptions. Congrats to Team Asobi.
Best Audio Design
Platinum Trophy: Astro Bot
Gold Trophy: Silent Hill 2 Silver Trophy: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Bronze Trophy: Stellar Blade
This year our ears rang with clashing metal, buzzing gadgets, and small towns creaking and moaning, breathing detailed life into the environments we played through. But it was Astro Bot’s all-encompassing auditory adventure that blasted it to the top spot. From Astro’s pitter patter adjusting to whatever terrain he crossed, to the squishes, bangs, and pows of his power suits, every level filled players’ ears with a galaxy of sound.
2024 featured stiff competition in the soundtrack department. Astro Bot introduced new tracks we’ll be humming well into 2025. Silent Hill 2 brilliantly recaptured Akira Yamaoka’s eclectic and moody sounds, and Stellar Blade’s soundtrack was, well, stellar.
However, Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth secures the top position for Best Soundtrack. It’s no wonder, as the original PlayStation game is considered to have one of the greatest soundtracks in the history of the medium. Each track in Rebirth is stunningly fleshed out with broader instrumentation, from the soothing town of Kalm to the rousing boss battles against Sephiroth. This year, one of the best soundtracks ever only got better.
Best Use of DualSense
Platinum Trophy: Astro Bot
Gold Trophy: Stellar Blade Silver Trophy: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Bronze Trophy: Silent Hill 2
If you’ve heard the clash of Eve’s blade ring out from its speaker, or felt the pitter-patter of the rain in Silent Hill, you know how much more immersive the DualSense can make your games. And this year, many developers made the most of its features to make their games more terrifying, challenging and enjoyable.
With Astro Bot, winner of this year’s Platinum trophy for use of DualSense, Team Asobi built on what they created in the past. From rolling Astro around in a LocoRoco-inspired world to clearing the path with a blow of your breath, every element of the adventure is developed with the controller in mind, adding to the enjoyment of an already joyful game.
Best Accessibility Features
Platinum Trophy: Astro Bot
Gold Trophy: The Last of Us Part II Remastered Silver Trophy: Silent Hill 2 Bronze Trophy: Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
Team Asobi has not only crafted an epic, nostalgic adventure paying homage to PlayStation’s extensive 30-year history, they’ve also championed accessibility by design! High contrast visuals, a streamlined, Access Controller-friendly control scheme, and truly unique implementation of haptic feedback with visual cues in tow, ensure players can explore a bevy of vibrant worlds alongside Astro.
Best Multiplayer Experience
Platinum Trophy: Helldivers 2
Gold Trophy: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Silver Trophy: Fortnite Bronze Trophy: Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero
Dispensing peace doesn’t come easy, but the taste of liber-tea is that much sweeter when shared with a team. This year players united under the Helldivers 2 flag of democracy to fight off bots and bugs. Whether you dropped in with friends or completed mission objectives with strangers online, we salute you.
Best Ongoing Game
Platinum Trophy: Fortnite
Gold Trophy: Final Fantasy XIV Online Silver Trophy: Call of Duty Bronze Trophy: No Man’s Sky
Nothing lasts forever, but some games have evolved into an ever-growing ecosystem. Constant updates bringing new fierce competitions in Gran Turismo 7, rebuilding a universe from the ground up in No Man’s Sky and exploring new frontiers in Final Fantasy XIV Online.
With constant innovation, never-ending stories, and a whole galaxy to explore there was one game that has withstood the test of time above the rest. Fortnite. Whether it’s dancing with Snoop Dogg, tackling teams with the TMNT, or just hanging with your best friends and anime characters, Fortnite appeals to the imagination of us all. Add in modes like LEGO, car racing, and even an FPS, and you have a game that is greater than the sum of its parts.
Best Expansion
Platinum Trophy: Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree
Gold Trophy: God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla Silver Trophy: Final Fantasy XVI: The Rising Tide Bronze Trophy: Alan Wake 2: The Lake House
Wanted to explore more of Kratos’ history? God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla delivered. Craved a new Final Fantasy XVI story? 2024 had you covered. Needed more Alan Wake in your life? Yup, got that too.
There was no shortage of expansions of already fantastic games this year. God of War Ragnarök: Valhalla took you to the trials of the Norse afterlife, while Alan Wake 2: The Lake House acted as an unnerving addendum to an already terrifying adventure. Meanwhile, we left the Lands Between to journey to the Land of Shadow in Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. Easily one of the biggest expansions of the year, it brought dozens of new enemies and bosses to face, a whole new map to explore and countless new ways to grow your Tarnished’s armoury. The sheer amount of content aside, Shadow of the Erdtree also introduced one of FromSoftware’s most challenging boss fights ever, adding a delicious and deadly cherry on top of an incredible adventure.
Best Sports Game
Platinum Trophy: EA Sports FC 25
Gold Trophy: WWE 2K24 Silver Trophy: F1 24 Bronze Trophy: NBA 2K25
High-scoring action was plentiful for sports game players in 2024. F1 24’s improved Dynamic Handling dazzled adrenaline junkies with realistic heart-pumping races, while WWE 2K24 came off the top rope to deliver nostalgia by bringing back fan-favorite match types.
The competition was strong but EA Sports FC 25 took home the chip, securing the Best Sports Game title for 2024. The new FC IQ feature overhauled tactics and delivered the most strategic control over gameplay in the franchise’s history. EA Sports FC 25 also made it easier to pick up and play with friends in the 5v5 Rush mode, as smaller teams bring more time on the ball for players who want to be close to the action.
Best Rerelease
Platinum Trophy: The Last of Us Part II Remastered
Gold Trophy: Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered Silver Trophy: Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Bronze Trophy: Marvel vs Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics
The Last of Us Part II Remastered kicked down the door at the beginning of 2024 with its impressive visual enhancements, crisp frame rate, and new No Return mode that offered new challenges once players completed the emotionally charged story. Crisp foliage, dense shadows, and detailed character design pushed this release to be players’ definitive version of the game.
Best Independent Game
Platinum Trophy: Balatro
Gold Trophy: Palworld Silver Trophy: Phasmophobia Bronze Trophy: Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted 2 (Flat Version)
The frights of Phasmophobia and Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted 2 kept players on their toes, and monster-taming adventure Palworld helped them build community. But this hand ultimately went to Balatro, which built a deck of roguelite fun that turned poker on its head and kept players locked into its hypnotically fun gameplay loop all year.
Immersive horror frights proved a strong draw for PS VR2 players. Despite launching this time last year, Resident Evil 4 VR Mode is still a vivid memory for many, pulling in the majority of player votes as Capcom sublimely adapted the thrills of its survival horror franchise for VR. Vertigo Games brought the post-apolycaptic world of Metro to VR, adding in immersive features while retaining that franchise’s taut, oppressive atmosphere. Phasmophobia proved supernatural escapades are best with company, and Cooking Simulator VR delighted with its culinary chaos.
Best PS4 Game
Platinum Trophy: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
Gold Trophy: Metaphor: ReFantazio Silver Trophy: Sonic X Shadow Generations Bronze Trophy: Persona 3 Reload
Some of 2024’s best games launched on both PS5 and PS4 this year. Atlus delivered two RPG bangers with Personal 3 Reload and Metaphor ReFantazio. Sega also expanded on its hedgehog love letter in Sonic X Shadow Generations, featuring a new campaign. What a year for Sega!
Despite the strong competition, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 secures the Best PS4 Game victory this year. Treyarch and its development partners delivered a gripping, action-packed campaign, ushered in the return of round-based Zombies mode, and offered the endless excitement of genre-defining multiplayer. Congrats to the Call of Duty developers for this year’s achievement.
Best PS5 Game
Platinum Trophy: Astro Bot
Gold Trophy: Black Myth: Wukong Silver Trophy: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Bronze Trophy: Stellar Blade
Great gaming experiences launched across the entire stretch of 2024, and four in particular were seemingly top of mind for many voters. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth’s lavish and expansive RPG adventure kicked things off back in February. Stellar Blade’s sci-fi action unleashed itself on PS5 two months later, with Black Myth: Wukong’s own take on tight combat mechanics leapt into the fray in August. But it was the platforming adventures of Astro Bot, released in September, that netted the majority of votes.
Studio of the Year
Platinum Trophy: Team Asobi
Gold Trophy: Bandai Namco Silver Trophy: Shift Up Bronze Trophy: Arrowhead Games
No video game would exist without talented people and teams pouring their passions into the medium. Every year, we are privileged to experience the imagination and ideas that took years to bring to life. We had one of the greatest satire multiplayer experiences, a new staple in the action-adventure genre, and a team putting out multiple hits in a calendar year. Still, the studio that captured the hearts of players was Team Asobi.
Through Astro Bot, Team Asobi tapped into the simplistic yet hard-to-master, joy of playing a video game. From invoking feelings in seasoned gamers they may have forgotten, to being a new gamer’s first magical experience. They prove to players they have the talent to bring out the best in the art form.
Most Anticipated Game of 2025 and Beyond
Platinum Trophy: Ghost of Yōtei
Gold Trophy: Marvel’s Wolverine Silver Trophy: Death Stranding 2: On The Beach Bronze Trophy: Monster Hunter Wilds
Hotly-anticipated heavyweights line the horizon of 2025 onwards. Players haven’t long to wait either: Monster Hunter Wilds launches in just over two months. While its beast-fighting delights kickstart the year, Sucker Punch’s latest adventure will bring sword clashes, exploration and more to 2025 in the form of Ghost of Yōtei. And with Insomniac’s and Kojima Production’s latest works also part of PlayStation’s future, there’s a lot to be excited about.
Experience the magic of the holidays in Stellar Blade. Xion, adorned with warm, festive lights, is ready to welcome you with the spirit of hope and humanity. Join us for a special event designed to bring joy and comfort to your everyday life. A Xion filled with seasonal romance awaits you on December 17!
Holiday scenery in Xion
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A colorful Christmas tree brightens Xion, transforming the once cold city square into a cozy, festive space with warm lights and decorations. The Last Gulp, where Xion’s citizens gather after peace is restored, is also decorated for the holidays.
In the camp, the seasonal BGM ‘Dawn (Winter)’ and ‘Take me away’ create a relaxing atmosphere. These romantic tunes will enhance your holiday relaxation by melting away battle tension.
A surprise gift from Santa
A new mini-game has arrived in Xion, offering a break from survival struggles. Enjoy the gameplay and earn rewards upon completion.
The Santa Dress for Eve is designed as an adorable and festive appearance. The I’m No Santa costume for Adam has a humorous twist. Complete the look with the Santa Girl hairstyle and personalize it with accessories such as Snow Crystal Glasses, Wreath Earrings, and Sleigh Ear Cuffs.
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The newly added Rudolph Pack cosmetic for the Drone is an endearing item reimagining Rudolph leading Santa’s sleigh. With a red nose and cute horns, this Drone is sure to brighten up your holiday.
Set the season as you please
On/Off feature has been newly added for the seasonal events and NieR:Automata DLC content. You can now enjoy the game whenever and however you want.
Always with a heart full of gratitude
Create unforgettable memories with these gifts prepared in Stellar Blade this cold winter. The dev team put extra touch to this update to deliver a joyful holiday to all. May the streets of Xion that were once cold, and empty be filled with the wonders of the season.
We strive to bring joy to your life. Have a warm and happy holidays with Stellar Blade!
Hi everyone! Hope you have been having good holiday season so far!
We are happy to share the Holiday Sale in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam that will feature discounts on PlayStation peripherals (e.g.: PS VR2 and DualSense wireless controller) and select blockbuster PS5 titles (e.g.: ASTRO BOT and Stellar Blade).
Holiday Sale 2024 promotion starts from December 19th 2024 till January 1st 2025, just in time for holiday gifting season, in participating retailers: https://www.playstation.com/local/retailers/.
Please see below for full details of Holiday Sale 2024 in in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
Singapore
Peripherals
Original SRP
Promotion SRP
PlayStation VR2
SGD 869
SGD 599
Pulse Elite Wireless Headset
SGD 199.90
SGD 173.90
Pulse Explore Wireless Earbuds
SGD 295.90
SGD 256.90
PS5 Game Titles
Original SRP
Promotion SRP
ASTRO BOT
SGD 79.90
SGD 67.90
Gran Turismo® 7
SGD 97.90
SGD 40.90
God of War™ Ragnarök
SGD 97.90
SGD 40.90
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
SGD 97.90
SGD 54.90
Rise of the Ronin™
SGD 97.90
SGD 54.90
The Last of Us™ Part II Remastered
SGD 67.90
SGD 54.90
Stellar Blade
SGD 97.90
SGD 67.90
Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut
SGD 97.90
SGD 40.90
Helldivers 2
SGD 54.90
SGD 40.90
LEGO Horizon Adventures
SGD 79.90
SGD 54.90
Malaysia
Peripherals
Original SRP
Promotion SRP
PlayStation VR2
MYR 2,799
MYR 1,859
Pulse Elite Wireless Headset
MYR 699
MYR 609
Pulse Explore Wireless Earbuds
MYR 999
MYR 869
PS5 Game Titles
Original SRP
Promotion SRP
ASTRO BOT
MYR 249
MYR 209
Gran Turismo® 7
MYR 299
MYR 129
God of War™ Ragnarök
MYR 299
MYR 129
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
MYR 299
MYR 169
Rise of the Ronin™
MYR 299
MYR 169
The Last of Us™ Part II Remastered
MYR 209
MYR 169
Stellar Blade
MYR 299
MYR 209
Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut
MYR 299
MYR 129
Helldivers 2
MYR 169
MYR 129
LEGO Horizon Adventures
MYR 249
MYR 169
Thailand
Peripherals
Original SRP
Promotion SRP
PlayStation VR2
THB 22,190
THB 14,890
Pulse Elite Wireless Headset
THB 5,190
THB 4,490
Pulse Explore Wireless Earbuds
THB 7,790
THB 6,790
PS5 Game Titles
Original SRP
Promotion SRP
ASTRO BOT
THB 1,990
THB 1,690
Gran Turismo® 7
THB 2,290
THB 990
God of War™ Ragnarök
THB 2,290
THB 990
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
THB 2,290
THB 1,290
Rise of the Ronin™
THB 2,290
THB 1,290
The Last of Us™ Part II Remastered
THB 1,690
THB 1,290
Stellar Blade
THB 2,290
THB 1,690
Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut
THB 2,290
THB 990
Helldivers 2
THB 1,290
THB 990
LEGO Horizon Adventures
THB 1,990
THB 1,290
Indonesia
Peripherals
Original SRP
Promotion SRP
PlayStation VR2
IDR 10,599,000
IDR 7,319,000
PlayStation®VR2 Horizon Call of the Mountain bundle
Hey gang! This week, Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi stops by to discuss his latest game, Fantasian Neo Dimension. Plus, the PlayStation 30th anniversary celebration continues as the crew shares their favorite games on PS5 and PS VR2. Through the end of the year, we’ll continue featuring picks from listeners and developers (and Kristen will return to share her top PlayStation games from the past 30 years).
Stuff We Talked About
Next week’s release highlights:
Flint: Treasure of Oblivion| PS5
Alien: Rogue Incursion | PS VR2
Interview w/ Hironobu Sakaguchi (begins at 4:41)
Special listener and developer’s favorite PlayStation games segment
The podcast crew highlights their top games on PS5 and PS VR2 (discussion to be continued…)
The Cast
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Sid Shuman – Senior Director of Content Communications, SIE
Thanks to Dormilón for our rad theme song and show music.
[Editor’s note: PSN game release dates are subject to change without notice. Game details are gathered from press releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]
Last week, asked you to share your favorite PlayStation games, consoles, and gaming collections using #PSshare #PSBlog to celebrate PlayStation’s 30th anniversary. Here are this week’s nostalgic highlights:
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dwardlozanoshares the in-game 30th anniversary celebration in Astro Bot.
silentgear1shares their expansive PlayStation collection, which includes the full God of War gaming lineup.
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MrioMoreno5shares a collection of games across the generations that spell out PS.
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rumunskibugarinshares Castlevania: Symphony of the Night booted up on PS1, surrounded by a PS2, a PSP, and PS VR2 headset.
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UnlimitedGamesXshares their PlayStation collection laid out by era, with PS1, PS2, PS3, and PS Vita.
Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week?
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THEME: Astro Bot – Winter Wonder Level SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on December 18, 2024
Next week, we’re blasting back into Astro Bot to explore the newly released Winter Wonder level. Share moments jumping through the snow and presents using #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured.
