Unveiling the Best of Gaming at The Game Awards 2024

Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound

NINJA GAIDEN: Ragebound | Reveal trailer | Coming Summer 2025. The Game Awards 2024's Opening Act was a whirlwind of surprise announcements. Among them, Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound stood out. This 2D platformer revival of the iconic Koei Tecmo series began the night on a high note. The trailer's pacing was impeccable, slowly teasing the involved studios before cutting to a beautiful cinematic reminiscent of Ninja Gaiden. The connection was confirmed when Ryu Hayabusa appeared. A brief glimpse of gameplay followed, adding to the excitement. The title and release date were then confirmed, leaving fans eager for its summer arrival.

The attention to detail in the trailer was remarkable. It captured the essence of the Ninja Gaiden franchise while introducing a fresh take. The combination of stunning visuals and the promise of gameplay made this trailer a standout.

The Witcher IV

CD Projekt Red came out swinging with the first trailer for The Witcher IV at the main show. Animated by Platige Image, the trailer was absolutely stunning. It felt like a short film in its own right, with a complete story of Ciri attempting to save a young woman set to be sacrificed by her village. The reveal of Ciri as the protagonist was a cheer-worthy moment, and the chilling ending left a lasting impression. However, due to the rocky launch of Cyberpunk 2077, CD Projekt Red still needs to show gameplay to regain trust. Nevertheless, this trailer piqued curiosity about their next project.

The attention to detail in the world-building and character development was evident. The animation style added to the overall allure of the trailer, making it a visual treat for Witcher fans.

Fumito Ueda’s new game

The most mysterious trailer of the night was for a new, untitled game by Fumito Ueda. Since the release of The Last Guardian in 2016, fans have been eagerly awaiting news of his next project. This trailer showed someone climbing a large colossus as an ominous countdown boomed in the background. It's difficult to make out the full story, but the intrigue and enthralling feel left us wanting more. If the game can maintain this level of mystery and excitement, it could be another all-timer.

Fumito Ueda's reputation precedes him, and this trailer only added to the anticipation. The combination of his unique vision and the mysterious nature of the game made it a highlight of the evening.

Project Century

The reveal of Project Century was both exciting and fascinating. Sega and RGG Studio's new game started by establishing a unique 1915 Japan setting with classical music and establishing shots. As the trailer progressed, we saw a player character engage in slower, more brutal fistfights and weapon-based combat. The lack of an official title or release window only added to the mystery and left us eager to learn more.

The attention to detail in the setting and combat mechanics was impressive. It showed a different side of the studio and hinted at a game with a lot of potential.

Onimusha: Way of the Sword

I love it when game trailers leave us guessing about the connected franchise. In this case, it was a new Onimusha. The trailer's gorgeous cinematics and visceral gameplay made it worth watching, even without the initial surprise. The confirmation of an Okami sequel later in the show was exciting, but Onimusha: Way of the Sword's reveal trailer had more substance.

The combination of action and mystery in the trailer kept viewers engaged. It showcased the potential of the new Onimusha game and left us looking forward to more.

Stage Fright

The reveal trailer for Stage Fright was a cute and meta addition to the event. As a new co-op game from Overcooked's developers, it introduced us to the characters we'll be playing as. The kids were interrupted by monsters as they watched the supposed start of the reveal trailer, leading them into a spooky world. The split-screen co-op gameplay gave us an idea of how players will work together. It was a fun and interactive trailer that put a smile on our faces.

The unique concept and interactive elements of the trailer made it stand out. It showed a different side of co-op gaming and added to the overall entertainment value of the awards.

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet's lengthy cinematic trailer closed out the show. It did an excellent job of introducing viewers to its pulpy sci-fi world and protagonist Jordan A. Mun. Even before confirming that Naughty Dog was working on the game, it had us hooked. Once the connection was made, we wanted to go back and rewatch it to spot all the Easter eggs and details. It was a fantastic way to end the night and paired well with the Game of the Year winner.

The attention to detail in the world-building and storytelling was remarkable. The trailer set the stage for an exciting adventure and left us eager for more from Naughty Dog.