UFO 50 Becomes One of The Highest-Rated Games in 2024: Here’s Why

The newly released UFO 50 has swiftly ascended the ranks to become one of Steam’s highest-rated games and one of the best-reviewed new releases of 2024 across all platforms. In a year brimming with critically acclaimed big-budget titles and indie gems, UFO 50 has carved its place among the most celebrated games, showcasing the sheer power of nostalgia coupled with modern-day innovation.

I do not regret to inform you that UFO 50 is incredible. Might be my favorite thing to come out all year pic.twitter.com/HQPyPvnpv5

— Mike Drucker (@MikeDrucker) September 18, 2024

For context, from the futuristic adventures of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth to the creative roguelike Balatro, and the strategic battlegrounds of Shogun Showdown, players have had an array of gaming genres to explore, PS5 exclusives Astro Bot and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth have topped the charts, but titles like Satisfactory, Animal Well, and Tekken 8 are also available on Steam. And now, UFO 50 has proudly joined its ranks, solidifying its position as the seventh-highest-rated new game release of 2024.

With a 91/100 rating on Metacritic, UFO 50 has garnered widespread praise for the enormous value it offers players. The collection’s success may fluctuate as more reviews pour in, but it remains one of the year’s most critically lauded titles.

Also Read: Astro Bot Review: Sony’s Best Game in Years and Possible 2024 GOTY Contender

UFO 50 Is A Treasure Trove of Nostalgia

Developed by Mossmouth, UFO 50 isn’t just a retro throwback; it’s a treasure trove of nostalgia. This ambitious title features a staggering 50 8-bit style games across various genres, each designed to stand alone as a full-fledged game. Rather than mini-games or bite-sized experiences, these are fully fleshed-out titles, reminiscent of what players might have found on an NES cartridge in the 1980s.

After eight years in development, the team behind indie classics like Spelunky has succeeded in delivering a game that not only pays homage to the past but also offers fresh takes on classic genres. From action-packed arcade-style shooters to more introspective RPGs and puzzle games, UFO 50 offers something for everyone.

For example, the game presents a long-lost library of a fictional 8-bit system developed by UFO Soft. The lore that surrounds these games also adds a layer of charm, with fake histories, in-jokes, and cross-references that span the fictional library. The games share sprites, characters, and even narratives, making it a delight for players to uncover Easter eggs connecting the games within the compilation.

UFO 50 Contains Hidden Secrets

As mentioned above, UFO 50 spans multiple genres, from platformers and RPGs to sports and roguelikes, offering something for everyone. However, it also provides a sense of mystery surrounding the game within the compilation.

For instance, players have discovered hidden elements, including a command console for secret games. From mysterious codes to unlockable games, it’s clear that there’s much more beneath the surface than initially meets the eye. This sense of discovery and surprise is a hallmark of what makes the game so intriguing, encouraging players to dive deeper into the collection.

In addition to hidden secrets, one recurring theme among UFO 50’s critics is its difficulty. The games stay true to their 8-bit roots, which often means they are challenging, requiring patience and mastery. For some, this difficulty is a turn-off, but for others, it’s part of the appeal, capturing the essence of retro gaming when games were often designed to be tough but rewarding.

Rediscovering Focus in the Age of Distraction

One of the most remarkable aspects of UFO 50 is how it encourages players to focus. In an age where attention spans are constantly tested by TikTok and short-form content, UFO 50 offers something different. It pulls players in with the promise of variety but keeps them hooked by allowing them to lose themselves in individual titles.

Whether you’re robbing trains in Rail Heist or battling opponents in the simple-yet-addictive Bushido Ball, there’s always something new to discover, but also enough depth to get completely lost in.

In short, UFO 50 is more than just a collection of retro games — it’s a celebration of the past with an eye on the future. Its combination of nostalgia, creativity, and challenge has cemented its place among the top games of 2024.

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