ENTERTAINMENT

2024: The Year of Affordable Gaming Gems

Thu Nov 21 2024
2024 has quietly become a standout year for budget-friendly video games. While many might associate “cheap games” with old CDs full of dubious titles like “1000 Games in 1, ” this year has brought a refreshing change. After the expensive releases of 2023, such as Baldur's Gate 3 and Street Fighter 6, 2024 has offered a string of incredible games at a low cost. For instance, Balatro, a deckbuilder that combines poker and deckbuilding cleverly, has captivated gamers, offering a unique gaming experience for just a fraction of the price of AAA titles. Similarly, Home Safety Hotline, a weird and wonderful blend of 112 Operator and the SCP foundation, has provided hours of entertainment at a budget-friendly cost. Buckshot Roulette, a tense game of probability starring a monster and a shotgun, is another gem that costs barely anything. Lastly, Halls of Torment, a gothic take on Vampire Survivors, has satisfied many gamers. The indie scene has truly shone this year, proving that you don't need to spend a lot to enjoy great games.

questions

    If Halls of Torment is ‘Vampire Survivors crossed with Diablo,’ what other crazy mashups could we expect in the future?
    With games like Balatro and Home Safety Hotline gaining traction, will major publishers reconsider their pricing strategies to compete?
    What economic factors contribute to the resurgence of lower-priced, innovative indie games?

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