As we look ahead to the new year, the PC gaming landscape is shaping up to be more exciting than ever. From highly anticipated sequels to innovative new IPs, 2024 is poised to deliver an incredible array of must-play experiences for PC gamers.

Assassin's Creed Mirage

Kicking things off is the latest entry in Ubisoft's long-running Assassin's Creed franchise, Assassin's Creed Mirage. After the more RPG-focused direction of recent entries, Mirage is a return to the series' roots, putting the emphasis back on stealth, parkour, and classic Assassin's Creed gameplay. Set in the vibrant city of Baghdad, Mirage follows the story of a young street thief named Basim who gets drawn into the centuries-old conflict between the Assassins and Templars. With its tighter, more focused design and a renewed focus on the core tenets of the series, Assassin's Creed Mirage is shaping up to be an essential experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Dragon's Dogma 2

Another highly anticipated sequel coming in 2024 is Dragon's Dogma 2. The original Dragon's Dogma, released in 2012, developed a devoted cult following for its ambitious open world, deep combat system, and unique "pawn" companion system. After over a decade of waiting, fans will finally get to return to the world of Gransys and continue the story of the Arisen. Dragon's Dogma 2 promises to build upon the foundations of the original, offering an even more expansive and immersive fantasy realm to explore, with new monsters to battle and mysteries to uncover. For fans of deep, rewarding action-RPGs, Dragon's Dogma 2 is shaping up to be an essential experience.

Hollow Knight: Silksong

One of the most highly anticipated sequels coming to PC in 2024 is Hollow Knight: Silksong, the long-awaited follow-up to the acclaimed Metroidvania Hollow Knight. Developed by the indie studio Team Cherry, Silksong will once again immerse players in a beautifully hand-drawn, interconnected world, this time following the adventures of Hornet, a powerful warrior princess. With new combat abilities, expanded exploration, and an entirely new kingdom to discover, Silksong promises to build upon the solid foundation of the original Hollow Knight while introducing fresh ideas and challenges. For fans of challenging, atmospheric Metroidvanias, Hollow Knight: Silksong is a must-play.

Homeworld 3

Another PC gaming classic making a long-awaited return in 2024 is Homeworld 3, the next entry in the acclaimed real-time strategy franchise. Developed by Blackbird Interactive, Homeworld 3 aims to recapture the epic scale and sense of wonder that made the original Homeworld games so beloved, while introducing new gameplay systems and features. With an expansive single-player campaign, cooperative modes, and the series' signature 3D space combat, Homeworld 3 looks to be a must-play for RTS fans and newcomers alike.

Persona 3 Reload

For JRPG fans, one of the most exciting releases of 2024 is Persona 3 Reload, a full remake of the beloved 2006 PlayStation 2 classic. Developed by Atlus, Persona 3 Reload will bring the game's iconic story, characters, and turn-based combat to modern platforms with updated visuals and quality-of-life improvements. As players navigate the mysterious Dark Hour and battle the Shadows alongside their Persona-summoning allies, Persona 3 Reload promises to deliver the same captivating blend of high school life simulation and supernatural dungeon crawling that made the original such a standout.

Tekken 8

For fighting game enthusiasts, one of the most anticipated releases of 2024 is Tekken 8, the next mainline entry in Bandai Namco's long-running 3D fighting game series. Building upon the acclaimed Tekken 7, Tekken 8 promises to deliver the series' signature blend of technical, character-driven combat with a host of new and returning fighters, stages, and gameplay refinements. With a focus on delivering a visually stunning, technically polished experience, Tekken 8 is shaping up to be a must-play for both hardcore fighting game fans and newcomers looking to dive into one of the genre's most iconic franchises.

Palworld

One of the more unique and intriguing new IPs coming to PC in 2024 is Palworld, a peculiar blend of Pokémon-inspired creature collecting and survival/crafting gameplay. Developed by Pocketpair, Palworld tasks players with exploring a vast open world, capturing and taming a diverse array of fantastical "Pals," and using them to aid in the construction of their own thriving settlements. With a quirky, off-beat tone and a focus on player freedom and creativity, Palworld promises to offer a fresh and engaging experience that sets it apart from the traditional Pokémon formula.

Dinosaur Game

And let's not forget about the classic Dinosaur Game, the beloved browser-based title that has entertained countless PC users over the years. While not a new release, the Dinosaur Game remains a timeless and addictive experience, challenging players to guide a pixelated T-Rex through an endless obstacle course of cacti and other hazards. With its simple yet satisfying gameplay, charming retro aesthetics, and the ability to play it right in your web browser, the Dinosaur Game is a must-try for any PC gamer looking for a quick, fun distraction.

These are just a few of the essential PC games that players should have on their radar for 2024. Whether you're a fan of sprawling open-world adventures, challenging Metroidvanias, or classic real-time strategy, the PC gaming landscape is poised to deliver an incredible array of must-play experiences in the coming year.

Of course, the world of PC gaming is vast and ever-evolving, with countless other exciting titles on the horizon. Some other notable releases to keep an eye on include the highly anticipated Elden Ring DLC, Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, the Tomb Raider I-III Remastered collection, and the long-awaited Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2. 

No matter your gaming preferences, 2024 is shaping up to be an exceptional year for PC gamers. So dust off your rigs, grab your keyboards and mice, and get ready to embark on a new generation of unforgettable adventures.