The year 2024 is drawing to a close, and as it does, the gaming world reflects on both the farewells of beloved titles and the excitement of upcoming releases. This year has witnessed the end of several long-running games, marking a bittersweet moment for fans and developers alike.
Among the significant games bidding adieu is SINoALICE, which will end its service on January 15, 2024. Developed by Pokelabo and published by Square Enix, this unique battle fantasy RPG left its mark with its deep storytelling and collaboration with famed creator Taro Yoko, known for NieR and Drakengard. Following its closure announcement, fans were treated to various final events, including the surprise film release of SINoALICE: The Last Story and online discussions to reminisce about the captivating world.
Another title, Dragon Quest Monsters: Super Light, will also conclude on January 31, 2024, after nearly ten years since its launch. The game retained traditional elements of the Dragon Quest series but allowed players to experience adventures on mobile devices. Square Enix cited the ten-year milestone as the right time for closure, ending with significant final events to please its loyal fanbase.
Similarly, DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY OPERA OMNIA, scheduled to shut down on February 29, 2024, showcased iconic characters from the Final Fantasy franchise and will conjoin its storyline with final chapters added prior to service end. The service termination was attributed to challenges in providing quality service going forward.
Not to be overlooked, 消滅都市 (Shoumetsu Toshi) will cease operations on February 27, 2024, transitioning to offline play shortly thereafter, which will let new players and veterans alike revisit the game's story.
Another beloved game, Phantom of Kill, will conclude on May 27, 2024. This strategy RPG garnered fans for its immersive battle mechanics and character progression over its nine-plus years of operation.
The final months of 2024 see the closure of various titles, including Dragon Quest Champions on July 30 and Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp on November 29. The Animal Crossing franchise’s mobile installment is set to offer players the chance to relive its charm with the release of Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp Complete shortly after its service closure.
Aside from farewells, holiday sales are commanding attention this season. The Nintendo Switch is set to host significant promotions leading up to the new year, with discounts on popular titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. PlayStation will run its Big Winter Sale, with up to 80% off on various titles, including Elden Ring and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.
Steam's Winter Sale continues to attract gamers, showcasing discounted prices on high-profile games. Other platforms like Xbox and various individual storefronts are launching their holiday sales, ensuring gamers have plenty of opportunities to grab favorite titles at reduced prices.
With the year wrapping up, these releases and closures paint a rich picture of the gaming industry’s dynamic nature. From reflective farewells to massive sales, both fans and developers are gearing up for what 2025 has to offer. The sentiment surrounding the beloved titles and their endings is palpable, providing the backdrop for eager anticipation of new games and initiatives to come.