It's that time of year again—time for our annual Thanksgaming article! As Thanksgiving approaches, I always look forward to reflecting on the games that got me through the year. This is my fourth Thanksgaming article, and I’ve got some special picks to share, each one holding a unique place in my journey through 2024. Of course, I’d also love to hear from you: which games helped you through this year?
My first game, and one that is frequently in my rotation, is Fallout 76. My friends and I have kept coming back to it, but this year was different. We haven’t seen this much excitement for the game in, well, ever. The popularity of the Fallout TV show definitely reignited our enthusiasm, but it’s also the promise of two big upcoming updates that’s made us jump back in. With four-star legendaries and the chance to play as a ghoul on the horizon, there’s no better time to dive back in and bask in the radiation one last time before our bodies become completely immune to it in 2025.
Another game that surprised me this year is Once Human. This MMO came out of left field and left me hooked. When I look back on what I’ve played most this year, it’s clear that post-apocalyptic games really struck a chord with me. Both Once Human and Fallout 76 share a common thread—they don’t take the end of the world too seriously. The enemies and the stories are so starkly comical that it’s easy to lose yourself in the absurdity, and that’s something I needed this year. Once Human also nails the survival and building elements in a way that keeps me excited to continue, and I can’t shake the feeling that there’s still so much left to explore and accomplish, and with the mobile beta in full swing this weekend, I have plenty to look forward to. Plus, it’s been one of the few games where I’ve met new people to group up with, and making new friends is something I’m always grateful for.
To round out the games that I've been completely jazzed about, I have to talk about a few that I'm looking forward to, and just as much as I've enjoyed the games that got me through 2024, I already know I'll need some whoppers next year to pull me through 2025.
One game that I already have substantial time in, and intend for it to take up a lot of next year is Soulframe. Look forward to some in-depth impressions throughout December, but thus far I've been thoroughly enjoying the game for what it is, and I can only expect it to get better through 2025. Another game I've been humbly awaiting to get my hands on is Dune Awakening. While there's a lot that we still don't know, Funcom seems to have some tricks up their sleeve to keep the deep desert of Arrakis hopping, and I can't wait to see how it all shakes out.
Finally, as always, it wouldn't be Thanksgaming without thanking everyone here at MMORPG.com, the staff, our readers, and our extended M.O.B.A. and Magicfind network for all the support they've given us through the years. After all these years I'm still encouraged by our passionate readers on the forums, and I can't wait to see what you all have in store for us next year.
Those are just some of the games that got me through 2024. Now it’s your turn: what games helped you make it through this year? Which ones made you laugh, brought you comfort, or gave you a place to connect with others? If your year didn't see any standout games, just in and tell us what you're looking forward to next year. Let’s celebrate the games that brought us joy, and those we expect to bring us joy, together. Happy Thanksgaming Day!
