Indie games have become more popular than ever in recent years, offering unique and creative experiences that often push the boundaries of traditional gaming. With so many indie games released each year, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which ones are worth your time and money. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 must-play indie games of the year.
1. Hades
Hades is a rogue-like action game that has garnered widespread acclaim for its satisfying combat, gorgeous art style, and engaging story. Players take on the role of Zagreus, the son of Hades, as he attempts to escape the Underworld. With tight gameplay mechanics and a compelling narrative, Hades is a must-play for any fan of action games.
2. Spiritfarer
Spiritfarer is a cozy management game that follows the story of Stella, a young woman who takes on the role of the Spiritfarer – a guide for the deceased. The game’s beautiful art style and heartwarming story make it a must-play for fans of relaxing simulation games.
3. Ori and the Will of the Wisps
The sequel to the critically acclaimed Ori and the Blind Forest, Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a stunning platformer that offers challenging gameplay and emotional storytelling. With breathtaking visuals and a moving narrative, this game is a must-play for fans of the genre.
4. Kentucky Route Zero
Kentucky Route Zero is an episodic adventure game that follows the story of a delivery driver as he travels through rural Kentucky in search of a mysterious highway. The game’s surreal atmosphere and thought-provoking narrative make it a must-play for fans of narrative-driven games.
5. Carrion
Carrion is a reverse horror game that puts players in control of a monstrous creature as it escapes from a research facility. With its unique gameplay mechanics and satisfying carnage, Carrion is a must-play for fans of horror games.
6. Untitled Goose Game
Untitled Goose Game took the gaming world by storm with its quirky premise and charming art style. Players control a mischievous goose as it wreaks havoc on a peaceful village, causing chaos and laughter in equal measure.
7. Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout
Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout is a battle royale game like no other, pitting 60 players against each other in a series of wacky challenges and obstacle courses. With its colorful graphics and addictive gameplay, Fall Guys is a must-play for fans of multiplayer games.
8. A Short Hike
A Short Hike is a delightful exploration game that follows the story of a young bird as it embarks on a journey to the summit of Hawk Peak Provincial Park. With its charming characters and relaxing gameplay, A Short Hike is a must-play for fans of indie adventure games.
9. Spelunky 2
Spelunky 2 is a challenging platformer that offers endless replayability with its procedurally generated levels and permadeath mechanics. With its addictive gameplay and tight controls, Spelunky 2 is a must-play for fans of difficult games.
10. Streets of Rage 4
Streets of Rage 4 is a retro-inspired beat ’em up that revives the classic series with updated graphics and modern gameplay mechanics. With its nostalgic appeal and satisfying combat, Streets of Rage 4 is a must-play for fans of old-school action games.
Overall, these 10 indie games offer a diverse range of experiences that are sure to appeal to a wide variety of players. Whether you’re a fan of action games, platformers, or simulation games, there’s something on this list for everyone. So why not give these must-play indie games a try and see for yourself why indie games are taking the gaming world by storm?