In a year marked by industry-wide layoffs and studio closures, 2024's gaming landscape saw a surprising resurgence of old formats, which proved to be a breath of fresh air for gamers and developers alike. Games like Astro Bot, Balatro, and Metaphor: ReFantazio, which drew inspiration from console generations past, achieved critical and commercial success, offering a much-needed alternative to the industry's obsession with live-service and open-world blockbusters.

One of the standout titles of the year was Astro Bot, a full-sized, standalone expansion of the PS5 pack-in game Astro's Playroom. Developed by Team Asobi, Astro Bot is a mascot platformer reminiscent of the games from PlayStation's earliest days, featuring cameos from beloved characters like Crash Bandicoot and Spyro the Dragon. The game's focus on exploration, collection, and whimsy paid off, earning it a shower of accolades and proving that old formats can still captivate modern gamers.

Another game that defied expectations was Balatro, a poker roguelike that combined the familiarity of poker with the addictive gameplay of roguelikes. By leveraging the global recognition of poker, Balatro was able to attract a broad audience, who were drawn in by its ingenious progression system and humor. The game's success was marked by a slew of Game Awards, and it would have likely taken home Game of the Year if not for the competition from Astro Bot.

Atlus's Metaphor: ReFantazio, a turn-based RPG, also made a significant impact in 2024. By innovating on the traditional turn-based RPG formula, Atlus created a unique ability system powered by anticipation and anxiety, which made every attack feel consequential. The game's success proved that turn-based RPGs can still be engaging and kinetic, even in an era dominated by action RPGs.

The success of these games offers a healthier alternative to the trends pursued by big publishers and studios. While there will always be a demand for big online shooters or bespoke open-world games, these breakout releases of 2024 demonstrate that there is value in smaller, quirkier, and more affordable projects. Capcom, which has boasted record profits in recent years, is a prime example of a company that has successfully diversified its catalog with a mix of big hitters and smaller, weirder games.

The industry's obsession with live-service and open-world blockbusters has led to a decline in recent years, marked by layoffs, studio closures, and a focus on expensive, high-risk projects. However, the success of games like Astro Bot, Balatro, and Metaphor: ReFantazio suggests that there is a way out of this decline. By embracing old formats and innovating on them, developers can create games that are not only critically acclaimed but also commercially successful, offering a more sustainable and diverse future for the gaming industry.

In conclusion, 2024's gaming revival is a testament to the power of innovation and creativity in the industry. As the industry continues to evolve, it's clear that there is still value in old formats, and that by embracing them, developers can create games that resonate with gamers and offer a healthier alternative to the trends of the past.