In the fast-paced world of video games, there are some titles that seem to get all the attention and praise, while others fall by the wayside, never quite getting the recognition they deserve. These underrated gems may not have the huge budgets or marketing campaigns of big-name titles, but they are just as enjoyable (if not more so) for those who give them a chance. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the most underrated games of all time that deserve a spot in every gamer’s collection.
1. “Okami” (2006) – Developed by Clover Studio and published by Capcom, “Okami” is a visually stunning action-adventure game that draws inspiration from Japanese mythology and art. Players take on the role of Amaterasu, a wolf goddess who must restore color and life to a world overrun by darkness. The game’s unique art style, engaging gameplay, and memorable characters make it a must-play for any fan of the genre.
2. “Beyond Good and Evil” (2003) – Developed by Ubisoft Montpellier, “Beyond Good and Evil” is a cult classic that blends elements of action-adventure, puzzle-solving, and stealth gameplay. Players control Jade, a photojournalist who must uncover a government conspiracy and save her planet from an alien threat. The game’s engaging story, diverse gameplay mechanics, and memorable characters make it a standout title that deserves more recognition.
3. “Vagrant Story” (2000) – Developed by Square Enix (then known as Squaresoft), “Vagrant Story” is a unique action RPG that combines elements of real-time combat, puzzle-solving, and dungeon exploration. Players take on the role of Ashley Riot, a member of the elite Riskbreaker organization, who must uncover the truth behind a mysterious cult and its dark rituals. The game’s deep and complex story, challenging gameplay, and atmospheric setting make it a hidden gem that should not be overlooked.
4. “Shadow of the Colossus” (2005) – Developed by Team Ico and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, “Shadow of the Colossus” is a minimalist action-adventure game that focuses on exploration and boss battles. Players control Wander, a young man who must defeat sixteen colossi in order to resurrect a deceased girl named Mono. The game’s breathtaking visuals, haunting soundtrack, and emotional storytelling make it a standout title that deserves more attention.
5. “Psychonauts” (2005) – Developed by Double Fine Productions and published by Majesco Entertainment, “Psychonauts” is a quirky platformer that blends elements of comedy, action, and puzzle-solving. Players take on the role of Razputin, a young psychic who enrolls in a summer camp for gifted children and uncovers a sinister plot to steal their mental abilities. The game’s imaginative settings, witty writing, and inventive gameplay make it a hidden gem that should not be missed.
6. “Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem” (2002) – Developed by Silicon Knights and published by Nintendo, “Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem” is a psychological horror game that challenges players to unravel a centuries-old mystery and uncover the secrets of an ancient artifact known as the Tome of Eternal Darkness. The game’s innovative sanity meter, Lovecraftian storytelling, and fourth-wall-breaking mechanics make it a standout title that deserves more recognition.
7. “The Saboteur” (2009) – Developed by Pandemic Studios and published by Electronic Arts, “The Saboteur” is an open-world action-adventure game set in Nazi-occupied Paris during World War II. Players take on the role of Sean Devlin, an Irish race car driver turned resistance fighter who must sabotage enemy operations and liberate the city from tyranny. The game’s stylish 1940s setting, engaging gameplay, and morally ambiguous protagonist make it a hidden gem that should not be overlooked.
8. “Nier” (2010) – Developed by Cavia and published by Square Enix, “Nier” is an action RPG that challenges players to explore a post-apocalyptic world, engage in fast-paced combat, and unravel a dark and emotional story about sacrifice and redemption. The game’s unique blend of genres, complex characters, and multiple endings make it a standout title that deserves more attention.
9. “Enslaved: Odyssey to the West” (2010) – Developed by Ninja Theory and published by Namco Bandai Games, “Enslaved: Odyssey to the West” is a cinematic action-adventure game inspired by the classic Chinese novel, “Journey to the West.” Players take on the role of Monkey, a skilled warrior who must protect and guide a young woman named Trip through a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by war and machines. The game’s engaging narrative, stunning visuals, and compelling characters make it a hidden gem that should not be missed.
10. “The World Ends with You” (2007) – Developed by Square Enix and Jupiter, “The World Ends with You” is a unique action RPG that blends elements of urban fantasy, fashion, and youth culture. Players control Neku, a teenage boy who must survive a deadly game in the streets of Shibuya and uncover the truth behind his mysterious circumstances. The game’s stylish art style, innovative gameplay, and memorable soundtrack make it a standout title that deserves more recognition.
In conclusion, these underrated games may not have the same level of fame or popularity as big-name titles, but they offer an experience that is just as rewarding (if not more so) for those who give them a chance. Whether you are a fan of action-adventure, RPGs, platformers, or horror games, there is a hidden gem out there waiting to be discovered. So the next time you are looking for something new to play, consider giving one of these underrated titles a try and you may just find your new favorite game.
