Indie games have been gaining popularity in recent years for their unique gameplay experiences, artistic creativity, and innovative game mechanics. With so many indie games released each year, it can be challenging to keep up with the best ones to play. To help you navigate the world of indie gaming, we have compiled a list of the top 10 indie games to play this year.
1. Hades
Hades is an action-packed roguelike game developed by Supergiant Games. Players take on the role of Zagreus, the son of Hades, as he tries to escape the Underworld. With fast-paced combat, stunning visuals, and compelling storytelling, Hades has received critical acclaim and numerous awards, making it a must-play indie game this year.
2. Spiritfarer
Spiritfarer is a cozy management game developed by Thunder Lotus Games. Players control Stella, the titular Spiritfarer, as she helps spirits pass on to the afterlife. With its beautiful hand-drawn art style, emotional narrative, and charming characters, Spiritfarer offers a unique and heartwarming gaming experience that is perfect for players looking for a more relaxed gameplay.
3. Among Us
Among Us may have been released in 2018, but it gained widespread popularity in 2020 and continues to be a hit this year. Developed by InnerSloth, this multiplayer game where players work together to complete tasks on a spaceship while trying to identify impostors among them. With its simple mechanics, deception gameplay, and social deduction elements, Among Us is a must-play indie game for those looking for a fun and engaging multiplayer experience.
4. Spelunky 2
Spelunky 2 is a challenging roguelike platformer developed by Mossmouth. Players explore procedurally generated levels filled with traps, enemies, and treasures as they search for the ultimate goal of finding the Cosmic Ocean. With its tight controls, punishing difficulty, and addictive gameplay loop, Spelunky 2 is a must-play indie game for fans of challenging platformers.
5. Raji: An Ancient Epic
Raji: An Ancient Epic is an action-adventure game developed by Nodding Heads Games. Players control Raji, a young girl chosen by the gods to battle demons and save her brother. With its stunning Indian-inspired art style, fluid combat system, and rich mythology, Raji offers a unique and immersive gaming experience that showcases the beauty and diversity of Indian culture.
6. Hades: Get to Work
Hades is a game developed by Supergiant Games with players trying to escape from the Underworld. Instead of the original Hades game, players can choose to play as employees of the Underworld, trying to earn a living while working for Hades. The game features challenging tasks and quirky characters, making it a delightful and humorous experience for players looking for something different from the original Hades game.
7. Olija
Olija is an action-adventure game developed by Skeleton Crew Studio. Players control Faraday, a shipwrecked man, as he explores a mysterious land and battles enemies with his legendary harpoon. With its pixel art style, fluid combat system, and captivating atmosphere, Olija offers a unique and engaging gaming experience that is perfect for fans of action-adventure games.
8. Chicory: A Colorful Tale
Chicory: A Colorful Tale is an adventure game developed by Greg Lobanov. Players control a dog wielding a magical paintbrush as they explore a black-and-white world and bring color back to it. With its charming art style, creative gameplay mechanics, and heartfelt story, Chicory offers a relaxing and immersive gaming experience that is perfect for players looking for a unique and artistic game.
9. Kena: Bridge of Spirits
Kena: Bridge of Spirits is an action-adventure game developed by Ember Lab. Players control Kena, a young spirit guide, as she battles corrupted spirits and restores balance to the world. With its stunning visuals, emotional narrative, and innovative combat system, Kena offers a cinematic and immersive gaming experience that is perfect for fans of action-adventure games.
10. Unpacking
Unpacking is a puzzle game developed by Witch Beam. Players unpack boxes in various rooms and arrange items in them according to personal preference. With its simple mechanics, relaxing gameplay, and charming storytelling, Unpacking offers a meditative and introspective gaming experience that is perfect for players looking for a cozy and contemplative game.
In conclusion, indie games continue to push boundaries and offer unique and innovative gaming experiences that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you enjoy action-packed adventures, cozy management games, challenging platformers, or artistic and emotional narratives, there is an indie game out there for you to discover and enjoy. The top 10 indie games listed above are just a few examples of the many incredible indie games released this year that are worth playing and exploring. So grab your controller, keyboard, or mobile device and dive into the world of indie gaming to discover the next hidden gem that will captivate and inspire you. Happy gaming!
