If you're a gamer, you've probably got your go-to titles, those you swear by and defend to the last. But sometimes, the games that grab the spotlight are the ones we least expect. 

Remember our Editor's Choice list of bangers for 2024? This time, we're throwing down the gauntlet and checking out the highest-rated games so far (by Metascore). Let's take a peek at the Metacritic scores for 2024's best-rated games and see which titles are stealing the show.

But first, what is the Metascore?

Grades Matter: Metacritic is a site that gathers reviews from all over the internet, crunches the numbers, and spits out a single score (the Metascore) to show what critics generally think of a game. A high score suggests that most reviewers are digging it. This list covers the top 10 highest-rated games.

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Front-Runners

• Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth (93): Cloud Strife's saga continues, and reviewers are loving this next chapter in the iconic remake.
• Balatro (92): New IP alert! This one's shrouded in a bit of mystery, but the high score suggests it's a must-explore.
• Tekken 8 (90): The King of Iron Fist Tournament is back, and it's looking sharper than ever. Get ready to unleash your inner fighter.

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Strong Contenders

• The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered (90): This critically acclaimed story gets a fresh coat of paint.
• Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (90): Looks like Ichiban Kasuga is back for another round of wacky adventures.

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Hidden Gems

There's a whole lotta love for these titles too, all clocking in at a solid 88:

• Solium Infernum
• TimeMelters
• Unicorn Overlord
• Persona 3 Reload
• Dragon's Dogma 2

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Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth: A Timeless Classic (93)

Kicking off the list is Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, with an impressive score of 93. This remake of a beloved classic proves that you can't beat experience. With updated graphics and gameplay mechanics, it's managed to recapture the hearts of long-time fans and capture those of newcomers. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of the Final Fantasy series.

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Balatro: A New Challenger (92)

Coming in hot with a score of 92 is Balatro. This game might not have the name recognition of some other titles on the list, but it's making a strong impression. With innovative gameplay and a unique storyline, it's showing that there's always room for something fresh in the gaming world.

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Tekken 8: Still Punching Strong (90)

The Tekken series has always been a favorite among fighting game enthusiasts, and Tekken 8 is no exception. With a solid score of 90, it's clear that the series is still punching strong. Updated characters, new moves, and intense battles continue to keep players engaged and coming back for more.

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The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered: Survival Reimagined (90)

Survival games don't get much better than The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered. With one of the most gripping storylines in gaming and immersive gameplay, it's no wonder it also scored a 90. Even for those who played the original, this remastered version offers a fresh and intense experience that's hard to put down.

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Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth: RPG Excellence (90)

RPG fans have something to cheer about with Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. With a score of 90, it's a shining example of RPG excellence. Deep storytelling, expansive worlds, and engaging combat mechanics make it an RPG any lover of the genre must play.

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Solium Infernum, TimeMelters, and Unicorn Overlord: The Indie Powerhouses (88)

Indie games are making a strong showing this year with Solium Infernum, TimeMelters, and Unicorn Overlord, all scoring an impressive 88. These titles might not have the big-name recognition, but they more than make up for it with their innovative gameplay, unique art styles, and compelling narratives.

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Persona 3 Reload: A Standout Entry (88)

Last but not least, we have Persona 3 Reload. While the Persona series has always been popular, this entry's strong performance is worth noting. It reminds us that even within established franchises, there's always room for a standout title that captures players' imaginations.

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Wrapping Up

So there you have it, the stars of 2024, according to Metacritic. Whether you're into RPGs, fighters, or indie gems, this year has something for everyone. It just goes to show that in the gaming world, you can't always predict what will be a hit. And that's what makes it so exciting.

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