Which Indie Game Should I Play? A Comprehensive Guide to Help You Decide

Welcome to the world of indie games! With so many amazing and unique games to choose from, it can be tough to decide which one to play next. That’s where we come in. This guide is here to help you navigate the vast indie game landscape and find the perfect game to suit your interests and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of adventure games, puzzle games, or something in between, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let us help you discover your next favorite indie game.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Indie Game

Platform Availability

When it comes to choosing an indie game, one of the first factors to consider is platform availability. It is important to understand your gaming setup and choose games that are compatible with your devices. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Understanding your gaming setup: Before you start browsing for indie games, it is important to know what kind of gaming setup you have. This includes the type of console or computer you are using, as well as any additional peripherals like controllers or gaming mice. Knowing this information will help you narrow down your options and choose games that are compatible with your equipment.
• Choosing games compatible with your devices: Once you know what kind of gaming setup you have, you can start looking for indie games that are compatible with your devices. This may involve checking the game’s system requirements or consulting a list of compatible devices on the developer’s website. It is also a good idea to check for updates or patches that may be required to run the game on your equipment.

By considering platform availability, you can ensure that you choose an indie game that is compatible with your gaming setup and will provide a smooth gaming experience.

Budget and Time Constraints

When it comes to choosing an indie game, budget and time constraints are two important factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Balancing cost and time investment: While some indie games may be free or cheap, they may also require a significant time investment to complete. On the other hand, more expensive games may be shorter or have a higher replay value. It’s important to find a balance that works for you.
• Maximizing value for your money: If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider games that offer the most value for your money. This could mean looking for games with a lot of content or games that offer a lot of replay value. You may also want to consider games that are part of a series or franchise, as these may offer more value in the long run.

Overall, it’s important to carefully consider your budget and time constraints when choosing an indie game. By doing so, you can ensure that you’re getting the most value for your money and finding a game that fits your lifestyle.

Reviews and Recommendations

Trusting Expert Opinions

When it comes to choosing an indie game, one of the most reliable sources of information are expert reviews. These are typically written by professional game critics who have extensive knowledge and experience in the gaming industry. They have played and analyzed a wide range of indie games, and their opinions can give you a good idea of what to expect from a particular game.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that expert opinions are just that – opinions. What one critic might love, another might hate. So, it’s important to read multiple reviews and take an average of them to get a more balanced view. Additionally, it’s also important to consider the credibility of the source of the review. Some websites and critics have a better reputation than others, so it’s worth doing some research on the reviewer before trusting their opinion.

Seeking Out User Reviews

Another great source of information when choosing an indie game are user reviews. These are written by regular gamers who have played the game and can provide their honest opinion on it. User reviews can be very helpful in getting a sense of what the game is like from a player’s perspective.

However, it’s important to take user reviews with a grain of salt. Some users may be overly critical or may have had a bad experience with the game for various reasons. It’s important to read multiple user reviews and look for patterns in the feedback. If many users are complaining about the same issue, it’s likely a legitimate problem with the game. But if the reviews are mixed, it’s a good idea to seek out more information before making a decision.

Overall, when considering expert and user reviews, it’s important to take a balanced approach. Look for multiple sources of information and consider the credibility of the source. Take into account both the positive and negative feedback, and use it to make an informed decision about which indie game to play.

Independent Developers and Studios

Supporting indie creators

• Empowering small teams: Indie games often emerge from tiny development teams, usually comprising just a handful of individuals. By choosing to play their games, you are directly supporting these creators, who are striving to make a name for themselves in the industry.
• Encouraging innovation: With limited resources, indie developers must think outside the box to produce unique and captivating experiences. By choosing to play these games, you are not only supporting the creators but also fostering innovation in the gaming world.

Discovering hidden gems

• Uncovering underrated titles: Indie games often fly under the radar, and many gems go unnoticed by the wider gaming community. By exploring the indie game scene, you have the opportunity to discover hidden gems that offer exceptional gameplay, compelling narratives, and unique experiences.
• Supporting niche genres: Indie developers are often not bound by the constraints of commercial viability, allowing them to experiment with niche genres and create games that cater to specific interests. By exploring indie games, you have the chance to support these niche genres and discover games that appeal to your personal tastes.

Top Indie Games to Consider

Puzzle Games

If you’re looking for a game that will challenge your brain and keep you entertained for hours on end, then a puzzle game might be just what you need. Indie developers have created some of the most innovative and unique puzzle games available today, so there’s no shortage of options to choose from. Here are a few of the top puzzle games that you should consider:

Limbo

• Developer: Playdead
• Platforms: PC, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, iOS, Android
• Description: Limbo is a hauntingly beautiful puzzle-adventure game that follows a young boy’s journey through a mysterious and dangerous world. The game is set in a dark and foreboding forest, where players must navigate through a series of puzzles and obstacles to reach the end. The game’s unique atmosphere and eerie soundtrack add to the overall sense of unease and tension, making it a truly immersive experience.

The Witness

• Developer: Jonathan Blow
• Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
• Description: The Witness is a challenging puzzle game that requires players to use their observational skills and lateral thinking to solve a series of puzzles. The game is set on a mysterious island, where players must explore and uncover the secrets of the island’s past. The game features over 500 puzzles, each more challenging than the last, and requires players to think creatively and outside the box to progress.

World of Goo

• Developer: 2D Boy
• Platforms: PC, Mac, Linux, WiiWare, iOS, Android
• Description: World of Goo is a charming and quirky puzzle game that follows the adventures of a group of tiny balls of goo as they try to escape from a factory. The game’s unique premise and whimsical art style make it a standout in the puzzle genre. Players must use their creativity and problem-solving skills to build towers and bridges using a variety of materials, all while avoiding danger and solving puzzles. The game features a variety of challenging levels and a touching storyline that will keep players engaged from start to finish.

Action and Adventure Games

If you’re a fan of fast-paced gameplay and immersive worlds, then action and adventure games might be just what you’re looking for. Here are three top indie games in this genre that are worth considering:

Stardew Valley

• Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android
• Genre: Farm simulation, role-playing, farming simulation
• Gameplay: Players manage a farm, socialize with villagers, and explore caves and mines
• Features:
  • Highly customizable farming experience
  • Relationship-building with villagers
  • Randomly generated mines and caves
  • Multiplayer co-op mode
• Recommended for: Players who enjoy a relaxing, yet engaging game with a strong sense of community.

Hollow Knight

• Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch
• Genre: Metroidvania-style action-adventure
• Gameplay: Players control a knight exploring a vast, interconnected world, battling enemies and bosses
  • Beautiful, hand-drawn graphics
  • Tight, responsive controls
  • Challenging platforming and combat
  • Secret areas and hidden abilities to discover
• Recommended for: Players who enjoy a tough, rewarding adventure with stunning visuals and engaging gameplay.

Night in the Woods

• Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
• Genre: Adventure, exploration, story-driven
• Gameplay: Players explore a small town, interacting with characters and uncovering a dark mystery
  • Rich, narrative-driven gameplay
  • Highly detailed, stylized visuals
  • Dynamic weather and time system
  • Emotional, character-driven storytelling
• Recommended for: Players who enjoy a mature, introspective game with a strong focus on story and character development.

Strategy and Simulation Games

• Civilization VI
  • Overview: Sid Meier’s Civilization VI is a turn-based strategy game where players build and manage their own civilization from the ancient era to the modern age. The game is known for its deep strategic gameplay, engaging storyline, and complex AI opponents.
  • Features:
    • Dynamic diplomacy system: Players can form alliances, make trade deals, and engage in diplomatic negotiations with other civilizations.
    • Improved combat system: The game features a more streamlined combat system, allowing players to engage in more strategic battles.
    • Exploration and discovery: Players can explore the map, discover new territories, and uncover hidden treasures.
  • Target Audience: Civilization VI is ideal for players who enjoy strategic gameplay, history buffs, and those who want to immerse themselves in a complex and engaging game world.
• Frostpunk
  • Overview: Frostpunk is a survival simulation game set in a post-apocalyptic world where players must manage resources and survive in a frozen wasteland. The game is known for its challenging gameplay, gripping storyline, and atmospheric setting.
    • Resource management: Players must gather and manage resources such as food, wood, and coal to keep their people alive.
    • Building and expansion: Players can construct buildings, manage infrastructure, and expand their city to survive the harsh conditions.
    • Dynamic weather system: The game features a realistic weather system that affects gameplay and adds to the challenge.
  • Target Audience: Frostpunk is ideal for players who enjoy survival simulation games, those who appreciate a challenging gameplay experience, and those who enjoy a bleak and atmospheric setting.
• Kerbal Space Program
  • Overview: Kerbal Space Program is a space flight simulation game where players can design, build, and launch their own rockets into space. The game is known for its realistic physics engine, sandbox-style gameplay, and engaging space exploration.
    • Detailed physics engine: Players can fine-tune every aspect of their rocket design, from engines to wings, to achieve the desired performance.
    • Sandbox-style gameplay: Players can build and launch rockets without any restrictions, allowing for endless possibilities.
    • Space exploration: Players can explore planets, moons, and other celestial bodies in a realistic and immersive space environment.
  • Target Audience: Kerbal Space Program is ideal for players who enjoy space exploration, those who are interested in aerospace engineering, and those who enjoy a realistic and challenging gameplay experience.

Role-Playing Games

If you’re a fan of role-playing games, then you’re in luck! There are many indie RPGs that are worth checking out. Here are three top indie RPGs that you should consider:

• Undertale
  Undertale is a beloved indie RPG that has gained a massive following since its release in 2015. The game follows a young child who falls into an underground world filled with monsters. The game’s story is full of surprises and is known for its unique combat system that allows players to choose whether to fight or befriend their enemies. Undertale is a must-play for any RPG fan.
• Oxenfree
  Oxenfree is a supernatural thriller that follows a group of friends who travel to an abandoned island. The game’s story is full of twists and turns, and players will have to make difficult choices that will affect the outcome of the game. Oxenfree’s combat system is minimal, but the game’s narrative more than makes up for it. It’s a great choice for players who want a more story-driven RPG experience.
• Divinity: Original Sin 2
  Divinity: Original Sin 2 is a classic RPG that has been praised for its deep, complex story and challenging gameplay. The game is set in a fantasy world and follows a group of adventurers as they try to stop a god from destroying the world. The game’s combat system is turn-based and allows players to use a variety of skills and spells to defeat their enemies. Divinity: Original Sin 2 is a great choice for players who want a more traditional RPG experience.

Sports and Racing Games

Are you a sports enthusiast or a racing fanatic? If so, you’re in luck! There are a plethora of indie games that cater to these interests. In this section, we’ll delve into three top indie games that are worth considering.

Tennis in the Face

First up, we have Tennis in the Face. This game is all about causing chaos on the tennis court by launching an array of power-ups and hazards at your opponents. The objective is to take down the evil tennis ball-wielding henchmen and save the day. With its humorous storyline and addictive gameplay, Tennis in the Face is a must-play for sports game fans.

Rocket League

Next, we have Rocket League. This high-octane game combines the thrill of sports with the excitement of vehicular mayhem. Players control cars that can be used to hit a giant ball into the opposing team’s goal. With its fast-paced action and easy-to-learn mechanics, Rocket League has become a staple of the indie game scene.

TrackMania Nations Forever

Lastly, we have TrackMania Nations Forever. This racing game puts you in the driver’s seat as you race through intricately designed tracks. With its customizable tracks and robust community-driven content, TrackMania Nations Forever offers endless hours of racing fun. Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned pro, this game has something for everyone.

So, if you’re a sports or racing enthusiast, these three indie games are definitely worth checking out.

Multiplayer Games

Multiplayer games offer a unique gaming experience where players can interact and compete with each other in real-time. Here are some of the top indie multiplayer games that you should consider:

Among Us

Among Us is a popular multiplayer game that can be played by 4-10 players. The game is set on a spaceship where players must complete tasks and identify the impostor among them. The impostor’s goal is to sabotage the ship and kill the crew members without getting caught.

Among Us is a fun and engaging game that requires communication, strategy, and teamwork. The game has simple graphics but offers a lot of excitement and challenges. It is a great game to play with friends or family members who enjoy social deduction games.

Jackbox Games

Jackbox Games is a collection of party games that can be played by 1-8 players. The games include:

• Fibbage: A game where players must come up with creative lies and guess the truth.
• Quiplash: A game where players must come up with funny answers to various prompts.
• Drawful: A game where players must draw a secret word and others must guess what it is.
• Word Spud: A game where players must come up with words that fit various categories.

Jackbox Games is a great option for parties or group gatherings where you want to have fun and engage in friendly competition. The games are easy to learn and offer a lot of laughs and surprises.

Overcooked

Overcooked is a cooking simulation game that can be played by 1-4 players. The game challenges players to work together to prepare and serve meals in a chaotic kitchen. Players must communicate, cooperate, and manage time effectively to complete each level.

Overcooked is a fun and fast-paced game that offers a lot of challenges and surprises. The game has colorful graphics and offers a lot of replay value. It is a great game to play with friends or family members who enjoy cooking or simulation games.

How to Find More Indie Games to Explore

Gaming Communities and Forums

Joining gaming communities and forums is an excellent way to discover new indie games. These platforms offer a wealth of information and opportunities to connect with other gamers who share your interests. Here are some reasons why you should consider joining the conversation:

• Joining the conversation: Participating in gaming communities and forums allows you to engage with fellow gamers who can recommend games based on your preferences. You can ask for suggestions, share your experiences, and learn about the latest indie releases. By being an active member, you’ll be able to expand your gaming horizons and discover hidden gems that you might have otherwise overlooked.
• Discovering hidden gems: Many indie games slip under the radar due to limited marketing budgets or the sheer number of new releases. However, gaming communities and forums often serve as a hub for enthusiasts to share their experiences with lesser-known titles. By participating in these discussions, you can uncover hidden gems that deserve more attention.

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, gaming communities and forums also provide a platform for discussing various aspects of gaming, such as game design, storytelling, and mechanics. By engaging in these conversations, you can develop a deeper understanding of the games you play and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into their development.

Some popular gaming communities and forums include:

• Reddit: With numerous subreddits dedicated to specific genres or platforms, Reddit is a treasure trove of gaming discussions. Subreddits like r/IndieGaming, r/Gaming, and r/PCGaming offer a wealth of information and recommendations.
• Discord: Discord servers catering to specific gaming interests have become increasingly popular. You can join servers focused on indie games, retro gaming, or niche genres to connect with like-minded individuals.
• Gaming blogs and websites: Websites like Rock Paper Shotgun, Indie Games, and Kill Screen regularly cover indie games and provide in-depth reviews, interviews, and analysis. By following these sources, you can stay up-to-date on the latest indie releases and gain valuable insights into the gaming industry.

By joining gaming communities and forums, you can broaden your knowledge of the indie game landscape and discover new titles that may have otherwise gone unnoticed. So, don’t be afraid to dive into the conversation and explore the vast world of indie games together with fellow gamers.

Game Development Conferences and Events

Game development conferences and events are an excellent way to discover new indie games. These events bring together developers, publishers, and gamers to showcase and discuss the latest trends in indie gaming. By attending these conferences and events, you can support indie developers, learn about upcoming releases, and discover new games that you may not have otherwise known about.

Here are some of the benefits of attending game development conferences and events:

• Supporting indie developers: By attending these events, you can show your support for indie developers and help them gain exposure for their games. Many indie developers rely on these events to network and promote their games, so your attendance and interest can make a significant difference.
• Learning about upcoming releases: These events often feature demonstrations and presentations of upcoming indie games. This gives you the opportunity to learn about new releases and get a sneak peek at what’s to come in the world of indie gaming.
• Discovering new games: With so many indie games being released each year, it can be challenging to keep up with all the new releases. Attending conferences and events allows you to discover new games that you may not have otherwise known about. You can also speak with developers directly to learn more about their games and what inspired them to create them.

In addition to these benefits, game development conferences and events also provide a chance to network with other gamers and industry professionals. You can meet other people who share your passion for indie gaming and make connections that can help you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and releases.

Overall, attending game development conferences and events is a great way to discover new indie games and support the developers who create them. Whether you’re a gamer looking for the latest releases or a developer looking to network and promote your game, these events have something for everyone.

Indie Game Showcases and Awards

• Celebrating excellence in indie gaming
  • Awards such as the IndieCade Festival and the Independent Games Festival (IGF) recognize and honor the best in indie gaming, showcasing a diverse range of titles that demonstrate innovation, creativity, and craftsmanship.
• Discovering new favorites
  • Game showcases, like the PAX Indie Game Showcase and the GDC Play Pavilion, provide an opportunity to sample a curated selection of indie games, many of which are not yet widely available.
  • Attending industry events like GDC (Game Developers Conference) and Gamescom allows for hands-on playtime with a vast array of indie games, while also providing networking opportunities for developers and players alike.
  • Websites and platforms such as IndieDB and Itch.io offer a comprehensive database of indie games, allowing players to filter by genre, platform, and release date, and to read user reviews and ratings.

Independent Game Stores and Marketplaces

Exploring niche and lesser-known titles

Independent game stores and marketplaces are treasure troves for discovering niche and lesser-known indie games that may have flown under the radar of mainstream gaming platforms. These platforms often cater to specific interests or genres, offering a diverse range of titles that may not be readily available on other platforms. By exploring these stores and marketplaces, you can broaden your horizons and find hidden gems that you might not have otherwise encountered.

Supporting independent developers

By shopping at independent game stores and marketplaces, you’re not only expanding your gaming horizons but also supporting the independent developers who create these unique and innovative titles. Independent developers often face challenges in gaining visibility and exposure in a crowded market, and by choosing to purchase their games, you’re directly contributing to their continued success and growth. Additionally, many of these stores and marketplaces offer curated selections of indie games, providing a convenient and accessible way to discover and play a wide range of titles.

Subscription Services and Bundles

Accessing a vast library of indie games, finding great deals, and discovering new titles is made easier through subscription services and bundles. These platforms provide gamers with a wide range of options to choose from, catering to different preferences and budgets. Here are some of the most popular subscription services and bundles available for indie games:

1. Humble Bundle

Humble Bundle is a well-known platform that offers a variety of game bundles at attractive prices. These bundles usually include a mix of AAA and indie titles, with a focus on PC games. By purchasing a bundle, you not only get access to fantastic games but also support charitable causes.

2. Indie Favorites Bundle

Indie Favorites Bundle is a subscription service that curates a selection of indie games each month. Subscribers gain access to a new bundle of games, which they can download and keep forever. This service is an excellent way to discover new indie games and expand your gaming library.

3. GameMaker Studio 2

GameMaker Studio 2 is a popular game development engine that allows indie developers to create and publish their games. The engine offers a free version and a more advanced paid version, which includes additional features and tools. As a result, the platform is home to numerous indie games, many of which are created by up-and-coming developers.

4. Itch.io

Itch.io is a digital distribution platform that focuses on indie games and other interactive content. The platform allows developers to sell their games directly to consumers, offering a unique shopping experience. Itch.io also features a large collection of free games, making it an excellent resource for gamers who want to explore indie titles without spending money.

5. Xbox Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service offered by Microsoft that provides access to a library of over 100 games, including many indie titles. Subscribers can download and play games on their Xbox consoles, with new games added to the library each month. This service is an excellent option for gamers who own an Xbox and want to explore a diverse range of indie games.

These subscription services and bundles offer a convenient way to access and discover indie games. By taking advantage of these platforms, gamers can broaden their gaming horizons and find new favorites that they might not have otherwise tried.

Personal Recommendations and Referrals

Seeking out suggestions from friends and experts is a great way to discover new indie games that are worth your time. Your friends may have played a game that they loved and think you would enjoy as well. Experts, such as game journalists and critics, may have reviewed a game that they think is worth your attention.

Additionally, sharing your own favorites with others can also be a helpful way to find new indie games. If someone is interested in the game that you are recommending, they may ask you for other suggestions. This can lead to a chain reaction of recommendations and discoveries.

Here are some tips for utilizing personal recommendations and referrals to find new indie games:

• Ask around: Don’t be afraid to ask your friends and acquaintances if they have any recommendations for indie games. They may have played something recently that they really enjoyed and would be happy to share their recommendation with you.
• Follow experts: If you have a favorite game journalist or critic, follow them on social media or subscribe to their newsletter. They may share their thoughts on new indie games that they think are worth checking out.
• Join online communities: There are many online communities dedicated to indie games, such as Reddit’s /r/indiegames subreddit. Joining these communities can give you access to a wealth of recommendations and discussions about indie games.
• Share your own favorites: If you’ve played an indie game that you really enjoyed, don’t hesitate to share it with others. You never know who you may be recommending it to and what other great indie games they may have discovered.

FAQs

1. What is an indie game?

An indie game is a video game that is developed and published by individuals or small teams without the support of a large publisher. These games often have unique and innovative gameplay mechanics, storylines, and art styles that set them apart from mainstream games.

2. What are the benefits of playing indie games?

Indie games offer a unique gaming experience that is often different from mainstream games. They provide an opportunity to discover new and innovative gameplay mechanics, explore fresh storylines, and experience unique art styles. Additionally, many indie games are available at lower prices than mainstream games, making them more accessible to a wider audience.

3. How do I find indie games to play?

There are several ways to find indie games to play. One option is to browse online game stores such as Steam, GOG, or the Nintendo eShop. These stores offer a wide selection of indie games that you can browse and download. Another option is to follow indie game developers and publishers on social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, where they often share updates about their games and release dates.

4. What are some popular indie games that I should try?

There are many popular indie games that you should consider trying, including:
* Stardew Valley: a farming simulation game with RPG elements
* Cuphead: a run-and-gun game with a unique art style and challenging gameplay
* Hollow Knight: a Metroidvania-style action-adventure game with a charming art style
* The Binding of Isaac: a roguelike game with procedurally generated levels and a dark sense of humor
* The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – a fantasy RPG with an immersive world and deep storyline

5. Are indie games worth the money?

Indie games can be worth the money, especially if you are looking for a unique gaming experience that is different from mainstream games. While some indie games may have lower production values or less polished gameplay, many offer innovative mechanics, compelling storylines, and unique art styles that make them worth the investment. It’s important to read reviews and watch gameplay videos before purchasing an indie game to ensure that it meets your expectations.

6. How do I know which indie game is right for me?

Choosing the right indie game depends on your personal preferences and gaming style. Consider the game’s genre, gameplay mechanics, storyline, and art style before making a decision. You can also read reviews and watch gameplay videos to get a better idea of what the game is like. Additionally, consider the price of the game and whether it fits within your budget.

7. Can I play indie games on consoles?

Yes, many indie games are available on consoles such as the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. Some indie games are exclusive to certain consoles, while others are available on multiple platforms. Be sure to check the game’s platform compatibility before purchasing it.

8. Are indie games difficult to play?

The difficulty of indie games can vary widely depending on the game. Some indie games are designed to be easy to pick up and play, while others are more challenging and require a higher level of skill. It’s important to read reviews and watch gameplay videos to get a sense of the game’s difficulty before purchasing it.

9. How do I support indie game developers?

You can support indie game developers by purchasing their games, leaving positive reviews, and sharing their games with others. Many indie game developers rely on word-of-mouth marketing to promote their games, so spreading the word about a game you enjoy can help it reach a wider audience. Additionally, consider supporting indie game developers on social media or through crowdfunding platforms such as Kickstarter.

6 Indie Games You NEED To Try (or else)