![Best Selling Video Games: Korea [2024]](https://data40.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/58_header.png.webp "Best Selling Video Games: Korea [2024]")
In 2024, the South Korean video game market continues to be a hub of innovation and excitement, pushing the boundaries of interactive entertainment. Known for their deep strategic elements and high-octane eSports scenes, Korean video games have not only dominated local markets but have also made significant impacts internationally.
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| Rank | Game | Genre | Developer | Publisher | Platforms | Release Date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Social simulation | Nintendo EPD | Nintendo | Nintendo Switch | March 20, 2020 | |
| 2 |  | Platform | Nintendo EPD | Nintendo | Nintendo Switch | October 20, 2023 | |
| 3 |  | Action role-playing | Square Enix Creative Business Unit I | Square Enix | PlayStation 5 | February 29, 2024 | |
| 4 |  | Action-adventure | Good-Feel | Nintendo | Nintendo Switch | March 22, 2024 | |
| 5 |  | Action role-playing | Capcom | Capcom | PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S | March 22, 2024 | |
| 6 |  | Tactical role-playing | Vanillaware | Sega | Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S | March 8, 2024 | |
| 7 |  | Role-playing, social simulation | P-Studio | Sega | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | February 2, 2024 | |
| 8 |  | January 26, 2024 | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio | Sega | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | January 26, 2024 | |
| 9 |  | Puzzle-platform | Nintendo Software Technology | Nintendo | Nintendo Switch | February 16, 2024 | |
| 10 |  | Fighting | Bandai Namco Studios, Arika | Bandai Namco Entertainment | PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S | January 26, 2024 |
This article will explore the best-selling video games in Korea for 2024, highlighting how cultural preferences, technological advancements, and the passionate gaming community have influenced game development and popularity. From mobile gaming phenomena to cutting-edge virtual reality experiences, we will uncover the titles that have defined the year in one of the world’s most vibrant gaming landscapes. Join us as we delve into the games that are setting trends and captivating players across Korea.
Best Selling Video Games
1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Genre: Simulation
Developer: Nintendo EPD
Release Date: March 20, 2020
“Animal Crossing: New Horizons” is a beloved installment in the Animal Crossing series, where players embark on an idyllic life on a deserted island. This simulation game allows players to customize their character and environment by crafting furniture, changing landscapes, and building homes. The game operates in real-time, with each day mirroring the actual day’s length and seasonal changes affecting the gameplay. Players can gather resources, catch insects and fish, and develop their island into a vibrant community of anthropomorphic animals. Social interactions are also a significant aspect, with opportunities to visit other players’ islands or host visitors. “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” has been praised for its relaxing gameplay, charming graphics, and the creative freedom it offers, making it a popular escape and a social space for players worldwide.
2. Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Genre: Platform
Developer: Nintendo EPD
Release Date: October 20, 2023
“Super Mario Bros. Wonder” is the latest addition to the storied Super Mario franchise, released exclusively for the Nintendo Switch. As a fresh iteration in the series, this game marks the first traditional side-scrolling Super Mario game since “New Super Mario Bros. U” in 2012. Players return to the colorful and challenging world of Mario, with an all-new adventure set in the Flower Kingdom. Here, Mario and Luigi, along with their friends, must thwart Bowser’s plans after he uses the magical Wonder Flower to fuse himself with the kingdom’s castle. The game introduces innovative gameplay mechanics, including a spherical map that offers a three-dimensional perspective on Mario’s world, enhancing the classic platforming action. With its vibrant visuals, creative level designs, and engaging gameplay, “Super Mario Bros. Wonder” continues to captivate players with the charm and challenge that have defined Mario games for decades.
3. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Genre: Role-Playing Game (RPG)
Developer: Square Enix Creative Business Unit I
Release Date: February 29, 2024
“Final Fantasy VII Rebirth” is the eagerly awaited second installment in the “Final Fantasy VII Remake” project, continuing the reimagining of the iconic 1997 game. This sequel expands upon the narrative and gameplay innovations introduced in the first remake, diving deeper into the story’s complex world and its characters. Players will follow Cloud Strife and his comrades from the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE as they journey beyond Midgar in their fight against the corrupt megacorporation Shinra and the enigmatic villain Sephiroth. With enhanced graphics and a deeper exploration of its beloved characters, “Final Fantasy VII Rebirth” aims to blend nostalgic elements with modern RPG mechanics, delivering an immersive and emotionally engaging experience. The game is specifically designed for the PlayStation 5, promising a visually spectacular and fluid gameplay experience.
4.Princess Peach: Showtime!
Genre: Action-Adventure
Developer: Good-Feel
Release Date: March 22, 2024
“Princess Peach: Showtime!” is a vibrant action-adventure game that marks the first time since 2005’s “Super Princess Peach” that Princess Peach stars as the main protagonist. Developed by Good-Feel and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch, this game showcases Princess Peach in a new light as she embarks on an exciting quest. In the game, Peach gains the ability to transform into various personas such as Swordfighter Peach, Detective Peach, Patissier Peach, and more, each equipped with unique abilities to navigate and solve challenges. These transformations occur as Peach stands on special circular platforms scattered throughout the game’s levels. The narrative revolves around Peach’s journey to reunite with her mother in Hawaii, adding a personal touch to her adventure, while also tackling familiar platforming and puzzle-solving gameplay. “Princess Peach: Showtime!” has been received positively for its creative gameplay mechanics and fresh take on a beloved character.
5. Dragon’s Dogma 2
Genre: Action Role-Playing Game (RPG)
Developer: Capcom
Release Date: March 22, 2024
“Dragon’s Dogma 2” is the sequel to the 2012 game “Dragon’s Dogma,” developed and published by Capcom. Released in 2024, the game continues the saga in a fantasy world parallel to the first, offering a sprawling open-world adventure. Players create and control a customizable character known as the “Arisen,” chosen by a dragon amidst a backdrop of geopolitical strife. The journey involves completing quests, acquiring new equipment, and battling formidable foes with the help of allies called “Pawns” — unique AI companions that assist in combat and exploration. “Dragon’s Dogma 2” leverages the capabilities of modern gaming platforms to enhance graphical fidelity and gameplay mechanics, providing a richer and more immersive experience. The game has been well-received by critics, praised for its expansive world, engaging combat system, and the depth of its character customization.
6. Unicorn Overlord
Genre: Tactical Role-Playing Game (RPG)
Developer: Vanillaware
Release Date: March 8, 2024
“Unicorn Overlord” is a tactical role-playing game released in 2024, developed by Vanillaware and published by Atlus in Japan and Sega worldwide. The game is set on the war-torn continent of Fevrith, where players follow the story of Alain, an exiled prince who rallies allies to challenge the oppressive Zenoiran Empire and liberate Fevrith’s nations. The gameplay combines large-scale tactical battles with real-time field movement and combat, offering a modern take on classic 1990s tactical games. The game’s development, led by director, programmer, and lead artist Takafumi Noma, spanned about ten years, partially overlapping with other Vanillaware projects. The soundtrack, composed by Basiscape under the guidance of Hitoshi Sakimoto, enhances the epic scope of the narrative. “Unicorn Overlord” has been praised for its innovative gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals.
7. Persona 3 Reload
Genre: Role-Playing Game (RPG)
Developer: P-Studio
Release Date: February 2, 2024
“Persona 3 Reload” is a 2024 remake of the classic 2006 title “Persona 3,” part of the renowned Persona series which itself is a branch of the larger Megami Tensei franchise. This update introduces modernized graphics, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and a deeper exploration of the original game’s narrative. Players assume the role of a high school student who returns to his home city after a decade, only to discover his potential to summon Personas—powerful manifestations of one’s psyche. Joining the Specialized Extracurricular Execution Squad (S.E.E.S.), the protagonist and his fellow students explore the mysterious Dark Hour, battling Shadows and unraveling the secrets of their city. The remake, eagerly requested by fans after the success of “Persona 5,” has been developed with significant updates to align with the visual and functional standards of recent entries in the series. “Persona 3 Reload” has quickly become Atlus’s fastest-selling game, receiving widespread acclaim for its revitalized presentation and engaging, thoughtful storytelling.
8. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Genre: Role-Playing Game (RPG)
Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio
Release Date: January 26, 2024
“Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth” is the ninth mainline entry in the “Like a Dragon” series, formerly known as “Yakuza.” This sequel continues the adventures of Ichiban Kasuga, the protagonist of “Yakuza: Like a Dragon,” alongside Kazuma Kiryu, the original series protagonist. Set in the franchise’s first-ever overseas locale, Hawaii, in addition to familiar settings in Japan, the game weaves a complex narrative that includes both characters’ personal challenges and broader criminal underworld escapades. Kasuga’s journey to find his mother in Hawaii intersects with Kiryu’s struggle with a life-threatening illness, deepening the game’s emotional impact. Gameplay retains the series’ hallmark blend of action-packed combat and deep narrative, while introducing new environments and expanding character interactions. “Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth” has been highly praised for its engaging story and gameplay enhancements, marking a bold new chapter in the storied franchise.
9. Mario vs. Donkey Kong
Genre: Puzzle, Platformer
Developer: Nintendo Software Technology
Release Date: February 16, 2024
“Mario vs. Donkey Kong” is a captivating puzzle-platformer game that revisits the classic rivalry between Mario and Donkey Kong. Released for Nintendo Switch, this game combines elements of logic puzzles with traditional platforming challenges. Players control Mario as he navigates through a series of increasingly complex levels, designed to rescue miniature Mario toys that Donkey Kong has mischievously stolen. Each level requires careful planning and precise timing to solve puzzles, avoid traps, and defeat enemies. The game is divided into several worlds, each culminating in a showdown with Donkey Kong, blending strategic problem-solving with quick reflex actions. “Mario vs. Donkey Kong” marks a successful revival of the historical feud between these iconic characters, offering hours of engaging gameplay and creative challenges.
10. Tekken 8
Genre: Fighting
Developer: Bandai Namco Studios and Arika
Release Date: January 26, 2024
“Tekken 8,” the eighth canonical installment and the tenth overall entry in the Tekken series, continues the saga’s renowned tradition of deep combat mechanics and intricate character narratives. Released in 2024, the game sets its story mode, “The Dark Awakens,” six months after its predecessor, focusing on the climactic battle between Kazuya Mishima and his son, Jin Kazama, who seeks to end the chaos within their family lineage. The game features a roster of 32 characters, both returning and new, each contributing to the overarching narrative. Developed using Unreal Engine 5, “Tekken 8” introduces several innovations, including more aggressive gameplay tones, the new “Heat” system, and “Tornado” hits, enhancing the fighting experience. The game also adds “Arcade Quest” to its online mode, offering features such as tournaments, arcade-style play, customizable avatars, and a specialized in-game currency. Leading up to its release, the game underwent rigorous testing and offered a playable demo in December 2023. It also launched with a season pass that included additional downloadable content and new characters available during the pre-order period. “Tekken 8” has been met with critical acclaim for its advancements in gameplay and its significant progression within the Tekken series narrative.
Chart-Toppers of 2024
As we review the landscape of 2024’s best-selling video games in Korea, it’s clear that the region’s gaming industry continues to be a powerhouse of creativity and technological prowess. The diversity in game genres and platforms, coupled with the enthusiastic engagement of gamers, underscores Korea’s role as a global leader in the video game industry. The games that topped sales charts this year not only reflect the sophisticated tastes of Korean players but also the industry’s ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving digital environment. Whether through gripping narratives, innovative gameplay, or pioneering use of new technologies, these best-selling titles have not only entertained but also enriched the gaming community in Korea and beyond. As we look forward to the future, the trends set by 2024 promise even greater advancements, ensuring that the world of gaming remains as exciting and dynamic as ever.
