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Once upon a time, indie games stayed underground, sometimes whispered about and praised on gaming forums by a niche of hardcore fans but rarely shining in the mainstream industry. Well, forget that: indie video games are taking over! With a slew of new titles released each month, there’s really something for everyone, including engrossing roguelikes, gorgeous puzzlers, challenging platformers, and story-driven games.
With developers’ creative independence from the influence of leading publishers, these little gems are often the most imaginative and innovative titles on the market, with creators free to experiment in ways that AAA studios usually can’t. This phenomenon has been steadily growing in popularity over the past few years, with the best indie games getting accolades from critics and awards during gaming festivals.
We’ve put together a list of indie game recommendations that we think are worth checking out to show you just how diverse and innovative the indie game scene has become. We’ve also included a few titles that have been recently released, so if you’re looking for something fresh to play on your PC or console, this list is sure to have something on it for you!
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is not your average farming game. It’s an immersive experience where you’ll have the opportunity to create the farm of your dreams, the perfect formula for a popular indie game! Starting from the farm you inherited from your grandfather, you’ll learn how to live off the land, become a part of the local community, and even meet that special someone you can start a family with if you’d like to.
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Vita, iOS, Android.
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#2
Sable
Looking for something relaxing? You found it. Sable is not only one of the best indie games of 2021 but also an extraordinary journey through vast deserts and charming landscapes. It’s the remarkable debut of Shedworks, a small development studio based in North London. Explore the dunes with your loyal hoverbike, scale the ruins, meet other nomads, and uncover ancient mysteries, all at your own pace.
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One.
#3
Proteus
Time for a calming stroll! Proteus is all about exploring a randomly generated island played in first person. Don’t expect game-typical aspects like leveling up or receiving missions to complete from NPCs. Is it worth it? Definitely. Just remember Proteus is not a game with any real goals or measure of achievement. Instead, it challenges you to simply exist in its world.
Platforms: Linux, macOS, PlayStation 3, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation Vita.
#4
The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe
Here we are with the expanded edition of the acclaimed The Stanley Parable, originally released in 2013. In this game, you play a silent protagonist named Stanley who, depending on your choices, will get a different ending. The Ultra Deluxe edition is more than just an enhanced version; it’s the best way to experience the game with added content and more refined graphics!
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
This game is a trip. Lots of endings to find and an interactive narrator who is simply amazing.
#5
Into The Breach
Developed and published by the indie studio Subset Games, Into The Breach is probably one of the best indie games on Steam. Set in a future where humanity is fighting against monsters using giant weapon-equipped mechs, you’ll have to move your character through a chessboard-like map and elaborate on the best strategy to win against the invaders, turn after turn.
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Nintendo Switch, Linux, Stadia, iOS, Android.
#6
Darkest Dungeon 2
Darkest Dungeon II is the awaited sequel of Red Hook Studios’ roguelike game. This follow-up story is a challenging RPG in which you’ll guide a group of heroes through a threat-packed journey! Early access to the game has been available since October 2021, with the full release scheduled for February 2023.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows.
#7
Umurangi Generation
Is photography second nature to you? Then Umurangi Generation is a must-try! In this simulation game, you’re tasked to take photos using different techniques, methods, and subjects, with complete freedom on how to edit the pictures and which effect to use on them. The DLC added new features, such as shutter speed, apertures, and ISO adjustments.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows.
#8
Oikospiel
Oikospiel is an interactive game in five acts by David Kanaga, who also worked on Proteus. The story follows a futuristic opera company preparing a global gaming festival scheduled for the year 2100. Its employees are trying to get Koch Games’ developers into their group without much luck, with the conflict threatening the unity of the festival itself. Oh, and to add a pinch of weirdness, the characters are animals. It sounds unusual, but somehow it all works, and the story and soundtrack are engaging from start to finish.
Platforms: Macintosh, Windows.
#9
Enter The Gungeon
A great example of bullet-hell roguelike, Enter The Gungeon centers on the journey of four misfits as they descend into a dungeon to find a legendary gun with the power to kill one’s past. Choose your character, each with their own unique abilities, and fight your way till the end of the Gungeon! In need of some help? Ask a friend to join you in co-op mode with a unique fifth character, the Cultist.
Platforms: Linux, Microsoft Windows, OS X, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Google Stadia, Amazon Luna.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
Hard all the way trough, but with practice you'll have a lot of fun with this one.
#10
Don't Starve / Don't Starve Together
Platforms: PlayStation 4, macOS, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, Linux.
Jellicle bat 3 years ago (edited)
Since there's no discription as im writing this, here's one: In don't starve you and your friends spawn in a weird world with monsters. Your objective is to harvest materials and survive the year and it's four different seasons.
#11
Crypt Of The Necrodancer
Crypt of the NecroDancer is an award-winning roguelike rhythm game in which you dance to the beat of songs to defeat skeletons, zombies, dragons, and more! Choose songs from the epic soundtrack by Danny Baranowsky, or select your faves from your beloved music collection. In August 2022, Brace Yourself Games announced a sequel named Rift of the NecroDancer.
Platforms: iOS, Microsoft Windows, OS X, Linux, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Android.
#12
Subnautica
Platforms: macOS, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S.
Bunzilla 3 years ago
This game and its sequel, Below Zero are absolutely fantastic. Highly recommended. Whether you want to follow the storyline or just build, it's great either way. I think I prefer the second game, maybe because you have a friend to keep you company, as well as other factors.
If you enjoy unique and creative games like these, check out our NYT Games hub for daily brain-boosting puzzles like Wordle and Strands. They’re short, smart, and as addictively clever as the best indie hits.
#14
Thumper
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Android, iOS, Microsoft Windows, Google Stadia, Oculus Quest, Oculus Go.
#15
Hollow Knight
Platforms: Linux, macOS, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch.
Yukon Charlie 3 years ago
Best game I've ever played. Fun fact: Every character and background and object is hand draw. Absolutely incredible soundtrack and story.
#16
Kerbal Space Program
Platforms: Linux, macOS, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S.
#17
Celeste
Platforms: Linux, macOS, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Stadia.
#18
Rain World
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago (edited)
Be advised, Rainworld is a gem in the rough and once you have gotten into it it's kind of amazing, but it is VERY hard, is quite vague on what you should be doing (the story is mostly emergent). You can easily stumble into area's you havent learned the skills to deal with yet in the beginningand get killed again and again. And by skills I mean things you figure out playing because there aren't any real combat upgrades to be found. But it's ecosystem and creature behavior is very good.
#19
Spelunky 2
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Cloud Gaming, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows.
#20
Soma
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, macOS, Linux, Microsoft Windows, Classic Mac OS.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
The story is the purpose for this one. Great interactieve storytelling slowly reveals bit by bit what happened, why and why you are in the middle of it. Contains plenty of "oh c**p what is that thing" moments.
#21
Pyre
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS, Macintosh operating systems.
#22
Stray
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows.
Bunzilla 3 years ago
Why is this not higher up? AMAZING game. You get to play as a cat in a post-apocalyptic world, and do cat things while going through the story. (Including, but not limited to: tripping robots, meowing on command, walking on keyboards, knocking things over...) Tugs at the heartstrings, for sure, but so worth it. Anyone playing it, let me give one piece of advice; at the very end when the cat is walking out, pay attention to the left part of your screen. You're welcome.
#23
Minecraft
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, iPadOS, Xbox 360, Raspberry Pi, Windows Phone, PlayStation 3, Fire OS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation Vita, Wii U, Apple TV, tvOS, Nintendo Switch, New Nintendo 3DS.
Jellicle bat 3 years ago
A sandbox survival game where there's no real objective or end but you can still defeat an *end* boss (pun intended if you know the game)
#24
What Remains Of Edith Finch
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, IOS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S.
#25
Brothers
Platforms: Android, iOS, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Windows Phone, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
Not spoilers, just play it. No text at all but will move you. The each character has his own stick and buttons control set is criminally underused in gaming in general.
#26
Baba Is You
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS, Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, Macintosh operating systems, Classic Mac OS.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
This one is,all about logic and changing the rules by moving blocks. Looks simple but you'll really have to put on your thinking cap and think outside of the box on later levels
#27
Hades
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, macOS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago (edited)
A rogue light that manages to integrate its storytelling with some great combat and challenge. Plus an interesting take on mythology. Can't recommend high enough.
#28
Cities: Skylines
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Google Stadia.
#29
Superhot
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, OS X, Linux, PlayStation 4, Oculus Quest U, Stadia, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
It's move and time moves idea makes for amazing slow motion John Woo gun kata movie scenes. The VR version is highly recommended.
#30
Gone Home
Platforms: OS X, iOS, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Linux, Nintendo Switch.
#31
Firewatch
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, OS X, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One.
#32
Unpacking
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, macOS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Linux.
#33
Untitled Goose Game
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, macOS, Microsoft Windows, Macintosh operating systems.
#34
Ori And The Blind Forest
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
This game and its even better sequal are on my "replay every few years" list. It's just so beautiful, charming and the soundtrack. Oh that soundtrack. Little Ori becomes quite a nimble beast ofter you start to unlock its moves. Slightly marred by some chase sequences that get a bit trail and error but are doable after a few tries.
#35
Machinarium
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Windows Phone, OS X, Linux, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3 (PlayStation Network), PlayStation Vita, BlackBerry PlayBook, Xbox One, Android, iPad 2.
#36
Steamworl Heist
Platforms: Nintendo 3DS, Microsoft Windows, OS X, Linux, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Wii U, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Stadia.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago (edited)
Another great game in the steambot universe, this time a turn based tactical shooter. Unique universe and plays great.
#37
No Man's Sky
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, macOS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, iPadOS.
#38
To The Moon
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Android, Microsoft Windows, iOS, Linux, macOS.
#39
Night In The Woods
Hermitbunny 3 years ago
This game is beautiful, the soundtrack, the characters.. it's nostalgic and haunting and has so many relatable moments
#40
Return Of The Obra Dinn
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4.
#41
Papers, Please
Platforms: Android, iOS, Microsoft Windows, Macintosh operating systems, PlayStation Vita, Linux.
#42
World Of Goo
Platforms: OS X, iOS, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Nintendo Switch, Wii, BlackBerry OS, Android.
#43
Steamworld Dig 2
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Nintendo 3DS, Xbox One, Stadia.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
Very good game like most games set in this steam robot universe. Would also recommend SWD1 because its story is referenced in this one. Great dig your own route metroidvania.
#44
Dead Cells
enigmatic crab 2 years ago
i love this game and am sad to see it so down the list. when you put the time into it, it becomes a reallu fun game
#46
Loop Hero
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, macOS, Linux, Microsoft Windows, Macintosh operating systems.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
I kind of liked this one bit got a bit repetitive after unlocking a new hero. Could be I'm missing something crucial in combining tiles. Will probably play again.
#48
Amnesia: The Dark Descent
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Android.
RoanTheMad 3 years ago
It's old, and a bit dated now, but this still stands as one of the best horrors ever made imo.
#49
Owlboy
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
Very good, interesting story. Has a slight slump in the middle, but nothing serious.
#50
Cave Story
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, OS X, Linux, Wii, Nintendo DSi, Nintendo 3DS.
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
Great game originally made by one person iirc. There are various versions out now with more detailed graphics but I only played the original one. Using the machine gun to hover is always fun. And the Mimigas are just so cute.
#51
Crypt Of The Necrodancer
Platforms: iOS, Microsoft Windows, OS X, Linux, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Android.
#54
Transistor
#55
A Hat Time
#56
Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice
#57
Yoku's Island Express
#58
Pony Island
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
The narrative is strange and creepy but interesting. Graphics look...barely functional but there is a reason for that revealed in game. SIn short survive the devils wrath by combining several styles of games plus hacking puzzles.
#59
Thomas Was Alone
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
Proof that you don't need fancy graphics to make a great game. It has a great narrator and will make you care for giant pixel blocks.
#62
Slime Rancher
RoanTheMad 3 years ago
This game is cute and can be really relaxing, since it gives you the option to play without the enemy "tar" slimes appearing. x3
#63
Lovers In A Dangerous Spacetime
#64
Observer
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
Stifling, corporate dystopia a la Bladerunner. I liked the premise and story a lot. A bit clunky sometimes. Has one of the last performances of Rutgher Hauer as the MC.
#66
Dust: An Elysian Tail
Virgil Blue 3 years ago (edited)
Great game with great art. Plus has one of the cutest mascot assistants that packs firepower.
#67
Doki Doki Literature Club
#68
Kentucky Route Zero
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
Starts out normal.but gets dreamily surreal quick. Interesting and unusual.
#69
Undertale
LoudMansLover 3 years ago
I'm one of the few that didn't like this game. Only a little bit in there's a repetitive bit where you fall *repeatedly* in holes on the floor and about the fifth time it happened to me, with the slow as molasses "fights" in between, I quit. I wanted to like it. I didn't.
#74
Inside
Billiewonder 3 years ago
From the makers of limbo great game super dark and creepy but rewarding gameplay
#75
Limbo
#77
Shovel Knight
#84
Guacamelee! 2
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
This and Giacamelee 1 are a feast for the eye and has a good sense of humor. Try to recognize all of the little easter eggs and game references you see along the way all drenched in a Mexican sauce.
#86
Bloodstained: Ritual Of The Night
LoudMansLover 3 years ago (edited)
Metroidvania game created by one of the Castlevania people, which is why it's so similar.
#92
Death's Door
Virgil Blue 3 years ago
Be a reaper crow on the hunt for wayward souls for you slightly off boss. Animation and world has a bit of a Ghibli vibe. What's not to love? Pretty and plays great.
#97
Among Us
Platforms: Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, iOS, Android.
Jellicle bat 3 years ago (edited)
A game similar to werewolf, where you and your friends (or strangers if you're playing online) go around the map doing tasks while an imposter is going around killing everyone. Find out who the imposter is and throw them out before it's too late. sussy baka amogus
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What do you think ?
Nikki Sevven 3 years ago
Another useless, low effort list. If you're not going to bother providing a synopsis for each entry on the list, then articles like this are a waste of time. Also, lists about games should identify which platform the game is on.
Nikki Sevven 3 years ago
Another useless, low effort list. If you're not going to bother providing a synopsis for each entry on the list, then articles like this are a waste of time. Also, lists about games should identify which platform the game is on.
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