Infinity Nikki Still Managed to Be One of the Best Games in 2024

When I look back at 2024, I see a ton of games that appealed directly to me. From so many JRPGs, like Metaphor: ReFantazio, to remakes like FFVII Rebirth and Persona 3 Reload, I had a lot to look forward to, then enjoy. But in the end, one of the best games of 2024 for me, happens to be the last-minute release Infinity Nikki.

There’s no denying 2024 is one of the most incredible years in gaming recently. Especially for people interested in Japanese titles. This year was all about JRPGs and games in existing franchises. However, in some ways it also ended up being a disappointing one until Infinity Nikki came along. Even with so many excellent titles that I enjoyed, almost every one also disappointed me in small or surprising ways.

I could go through and name all of the major flaws that held back nearly every single one of my favorite titles. FFVII Rebirth, for instance, is a near masterpiece in every category… except when it comes to its ending. That moment is a small part of the overall experience, but its confusing and awkward execution did nothing but leave such a sour taste in my mouth. The same goes for the entire second half of Metaphor: ReFantazio. Despite its unmatched gameplay and style, it faltered.

Then there is Trails through Daybreak, which feels a bit too short. It is great, but I feel it is the weakest of the first entries in the four sub-series of that franchise thus far. FFXIV Dawntrail is the continuation of an MMORPG that should’ve ended with Endwalker. It went beyond my expectations, but still ultimately felt unnecessary. The list goes on and on.

Only one game stands tall from start to finish as my most impeccable experience this year, and that is surprisingly Infinity Nikki. This is the most pure gaming fun I’ve had with an experience outside of a Nintendo game like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. The open-world is a true joy to explore. There are so many puzzles, minigames, and even light combat scenarios around every corner. There is something to see and do every few feet in Miraland.

Then there is the dress-up aspect, which is the best you’ll find in any game period. The level of gorgeous detail in each outfit, from the smallest accessories to the most extravagant gowns, is on a level no game will come close to reaching in the future. It unlocked this side of me I never knew existed that loves cosmetics and making my character look perfect. And the most hilarious part is I am not the general target audience for this experience, either.

Beyond all that, there is the story, which is perhaps the most shocking part of Infinity Nikki. The writing here is far and away better than most games I’ve played this year. The plot goes in some dark and twisted directions I didn’t expect, with some great twists popping up along the way. There are also some memorable characters like Raggy and Giovanni, that will go up there with some of my all-time favorite gaming characters like Goro Akechi from Persona 5. Sure, Infold does rush the story a bit too much near the end of the portion available in 2024, but even this flaw feels minuscule compared to everything else I played this year.

Overall, Infinity Nikki is the best game I have played from start to finish in 2024, despite being free-to-play. The monetization is great, too, allowing you to play the entire base story without paying a dime if you don’t want to. It is a true shame it came out so late in the year, so you won’t likely see it in the overall Siliconera awards or the like. From the dress-up aspects to the remarkably designed open-world to minigames to the unforgettable characters, every single part is masterfully crafted. Even if it doesn’t seem like your cup of tea, I recommend everyone to check out my Game of the Year 2024.

Infinity Nikki is available right now for free on Android and iOS devices, the PS5, and PCs.