Slideshows

24 video games turning 20 in 2024

Be Interactive

2024-01-16 09:42:30

2004 proved to be a defining year for the video game industry, particularly in November, with the release of World of Warcraft, revolutionizing MMOs, Half-Life 2 redefining the FPS, Xbox's triumph with Halo 2, and the launch of the Nintendo DS console. Which games from this year evoke a particular nostalgia in you?

Unreal Tournament 2004

Credit: Epic Games

Unreal Tournament 2004, released on March 16, 2004, is a first-person shooter from Epic Games. Known for its fast-paced multiplayer action, it features a variety of game modes, maps and customizable gameplay. Praised for its modding community, robust level editor and competitive gameplay, it remains a benchmark in the arena shooter genre.

Far Cry

Credit: Crytek/Ubisoft

Far Cry, released on March 23, 2004, is a revolutionary first-person shooter developed by Crytek and published by Ubisoft. Set on a lush tropical island, it introduced open-world exploration, advanced AI and dynamic gameplay. Praised for its stunning graphics and immersive experience, Far Cry played an important role in shaping the FPS genre.

The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures

Credit: Nintendo

The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures, released on June 7, 2004, is an action-adventure game for Nintendo GameCube. Link embarks on a cooperative journey, battling enemies and solving puzzles across Hyrule. Known for its multiplayer focus and innovative gameplay, it combines classic Zelda elements with a unique multiplayer experience.

Doom 3

Credit: id Software/Activision

Doom 3, released on August 3, 2004, is a first-person shooter from id Software. On Mars, players battle demonic forces unleashed by a teleportation experiment gone awry. Praised for its atmospheric horror, advanced graphics and intense gameplay, Doom 3 rejuvenated the classic franchise, becoming a benchmark for graphical prowess in its day.

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II - The Sith Lords

Credit: Obsidian Entertainment

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II - The Sith Lords, released on December 6, 2004, is an RPG from Obsidian Entertainment. Continuing the epic Star Wars saga, players navigate a galaxy in turmoil, making life-changing choices as Jedi exiles. Praised for its complex and morally gray narrative, it remains a classic of the Star Wars gaming universe.

Pikmin 2

Credit: Nintendo

Pikmin 2, released on August 30, 2004, is a real-time strategy game developed by Nintendo for the GameCube. Players, guided by Captain Olimar and his assistant Louie, explore lush environments to recover precious treasures. The game introduced new Pikmin types and multiplayer modes, enhancing the charming and strategic Pikmin experience.

Burnout 3: Takedown

Credit: Criterion Games/Electronic Arts

Burnout 3: Takedown, released on September 7, 2004, is a racing game from Criterion Games in which players engage in aggressive, adrenaline-fueled racing, striving to cause spectacular accidents. Renowned for its "Takedown" system, intense speed and exhilarating crashes, it has become a benchmark in arcade-style racing games, offering an unrivalled sensation of speed and chaos.

The Sims 2

Credit: Maxis/Electronic Arts

Released on September 14, 2004, the life simulation game developed by Maxis and Electronic Arts, The Sims 2, introduced 3D graphics, life stages and a more complex life simulation than its predecessor. Players guide virtual people through various experiences, relationships and challenges, making it a beloved and influential title in video game history.

Fable

Credit: Lionhead Studios

Released on September 14, 2004, Lionhead Studios' action-RPG Fable is renowned for its innovative morality system and immersive storytelling, and remains a benchmark in the RPG genre. Set in the fantasy world of Albion, players shape their character's destiny through moral choices, magic and combat.

X-Men Legends

Credit: Raven Software

X-Men Legends, released on September 21, 2004, is an action role-playing game developed by Raven Software in which players assemble a team of mutant heroes, including iconic X-Men characters, to fight the Brotherhood of Mutants. Renowned for its cooperative gameplay, character customization and captivating story, it has become a flagship title in the X-Men game franchise.

Star Wars: Battlefront

Credit: Pandemic Studios

Star Wars: Battlefront, released on September 21, 2004, is an action shooter from Pandemic Studios in which players engage in large-scale battles in iconic Star Wars locations, choosing to fight for the Galactic Empire or the Rebel Alliance. Praised for its immersive multiplayer experience, authentic Star Wars atmosphere and dynamic combat, it remains a popular entry into the Star Wars gaming universe.

Tony Hawk's Underground 2

Credit: Neversoft

Tony Hawk's Underground 2, released on October 4, 2004, is a skateboarding video game developed by Neversoft. Players embark on a world tour, performing tricks and stunts. Renowned for its in-depth level customization, humorous storytelling and diverse challenges, it built on the success of its predecessor, cementing the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater franchise as a skateboarding gaming classic.

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door

Credit: Nintendo

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, released on October 11, 2004, is a role-playing game from Intelligent Systems for the Nintendo GameCube. Mario once again embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Peach and unlock the mysteries of a legendary treasure. Renowned for its charming paper art style, witty humor and captivating turn-based combat, it's a beloved installment in the Paper Mario series.

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

Credit: Rockstar Games

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, released on October 26, 2004, is an iconic action-adventure game from Rockstar Games. Set in the fictional state of San Andreas, it follows the journey of Carl "CJ" Johnson through gang conflict. Renowned for its vast open world, captivating narrative and diverse activities, it remains a landmark in video game history.

Need for Speed: Underground 2

Credit: EA Black Box

Need for Speed: Underground 2, released on November 9, 2004, is a popular racing game from EA Black Box. Players compete in illegal street races, customize their cars and explore an open-world city. Renowned for its extensive car customization, diverse racing modes and vibrant urban atmosphere, it has become a standout title in the racing genre.

Halo 2

Credit: Microsoft Game Studios

Halo 2, launched on November 9, 2004, is a flagship first-person shooter from Bungie and Microsoft Game Studios. A critical and commercial triumph, it continues the story of Master Chief versus the Covenants, introducing dual wielding and an innovative multiplayer system. Its impact on console games and online multiplayer remains profound.

Half-Life 2

Credit: Valve Corporation

Half-Life 2, released on November 16, 2004, is a revolutionary first-person shooter from Valve Corporation. Set in a dystopian world ruled by the Combine, players control Gordon Freeman as he battles oppressive forces with the iconic Gravity Gun. Praised for its innovative gameplay, immersive narrative and advanced graphics, it remains a gaming classic.

Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines

Credit: Troika Games

Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines, released on November 16, 2004, is an action-RPG from Troika Games. Set in a dark, vampire-filled Los Angeles, players confront political intrigue and supernatural conflict. Praised for its deep narrative, player choices and immersive atmosphere, it has gained a cult following despite initial technical problems.

Call of Duty: Finest Hour

Credit: Spark Unlimited

Call of Duty: Finest Hour, released on November 16, 2004, is a first-person shooter from Spark Unlimited set during the Second World War. Players experience various Allied campaigns, notably on the Eastern Front and in North Africa. Praised for its intense combat, historical authenticity and cinematic presentation, it marked one of the early successes of the Call of Duty franchise.

Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

Credit: Konami

Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, released on November 17, 2004 and published by Konami, is considered a masterpiece by Japanese video game designer Hideo Kojima. Set during the Cold War, players guide Snake through a dense tale of espionage, survival and betrayal. Renowned for its complex plot, memorable characters and innovative camouflage system, it is a classic in video game history.

GoldenEye: Rogue Agent

Credit: Electronic Art

GoldenEye: Rogue Agent, released on November 22, 2004, is a first-person shooter from Electronic Art in which players take on the role of a former MI6 agent equipped with a golden cybernetic eye, navigating iconic Bond locations. Renowned for its innovative villain perspective, it brought a unique touch to the James Bond series of games, combining action and espionage.

World of Warcraft

Credit: Blizzard Entertainment

World of Warcraft, launched on November 23, 2004, is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game from Blizzard Entertainment. This iconic title has captivated millions with its immersive fantasy world of Azeroth, offering a rich narrative, diverse races and classes and dynamic player interactions, shaping the MMO landscape for years.

Prince of Persia: Warrior Within

Credit: Ubisoft

Prince of Persia: Warrior Within, released on November 30, 2004, is an action-adventure game from Ubisoft. Continuing the story of the Prince, players navigate a dark, temporal world to escape a deadly fate. Renowned for its fluid acrobatics, combat system and mature narrative, it brought a darker tone to the classic Prince of Persia series.

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