Indie games have become a major part of the gaming landscape, offering fresh, creative experiences that are often quite different from mainstream titles. If you haven’t explored the world of indie games, you’re missing out on some amazing, unique experiences that can deeply engage you and offer something new every time you play.
In this article, we will walk through some of the most exciting indie games that you should consider adding to your collection. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting your journey, these titles are sure to keep you entertained, challenge your skills, and offer a refreshing change from the norm.
1. Hades
Platform: PC, Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Genre: Roguelike, Action, Adventure
If you’re someone who loves fast-paced action combined with an engaging story, Hades is a must-play indie game that should be on your radar. Created by Supergiant Games, the same studio behind Bastion and Transistor, Hades offers a compelling experience with challenging roguelike mechanics and a narrative that develops as you dive deeper into the game.
In Hades, you play as Zagreus, the son of the Greek god Hades, trying to escape the underworld. Each time you die (and believe me, you’ll die a lot), the game restarts, but with each run, you learn more about the world and the characters around you. It’s this sense of progression that makes each death feel like a part of the bigger story. The combat is satisfying and fluid, with a variety of weapons and abilities to master. If you enjoy intense gameplay and storytelling that evolves, Hades is the game you need.
2. Celeste
Platform: PC, Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Genre: Platformer
Celeste is a platformer that doesn’t just challenge your skills, but also your emotions. The game’s protagonist, Madeline, embarks on a journey to the top of the titular mountain, Celeste, while battling both physical obstacles and her inner demons. The game beautifully mixes challenging platforming mechanics with a heartfelt narrative that focuses on mental health, self-doubt, and perseverance.
The gameplay is tough but fair, with perfectly timed jumps and precise movements that make you feel a true sense of accomplishment. The soundtrack is also a standout, with each track adding emotional depth to the journey. If you’re looking for a game that combines intense platforming with a moving narrative, Celeste is definitely one you shouldn’t miss.
3. Hollow Knight
Platform: PC, Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Genre: Metroidvania, Action-Adventure
For fans of Metroidvania games, Hollow Knight is an absolute gem. Developed by Team Cherry, this beautifully animated title lets you explore the vast, interconnected world of Hallownest. The game doesn’t hold your hand; instead, it challenges you to uncover its secrets and unlock its many mysteries at your own pace.
In Hollow Knight, you play as a small, silent knight exploring a fallen kingdom. The combat is tight and challenging, with every enemy encounter requiring precision and strategy. Add to that the sense of discovery and the hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, and you’ve got one of the most immersive indie experiences available.
If you love exploration, challenging combat, and atmospheric worlds, Hollow Knight will give you hours of enjoyment.
4. Undertale
Platform: PC, Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Genre: RPG
Undertale is a game that has become a cult classic, and for good reason. Created by Toby Fox, this quirky RPG lets you decide whether to fight or spare the creatures you encounter. The twist is that your decisions matter, and they affect how the story unfolds, ultimately leading to multiple different endings.
What makes Undertale stand out is its humor, charm, and the way it subverts RPG tropes. The game doesn’t take itself too seriously, and its characters are memorable and endearing. The minimalist design and the unique battle mechanics (where you control the protagonist during encounters) make it feel fresh and different from most RPGs. If you’re looking for a game that lets you make meaningful choices, Undertale is one you shouldn’t miss.
5. Stardew Valley
Platform: PC, Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, Mobile
Genre: Farming Simulation, RPG
If you’re looking for a relaxing, wholesome experience, Stardew Valley is the perfect game to sink hours into. Created by Eric Barone (known as ConcernedApe), Stardew Valley is a farming simulation game where you inherit a run-down farm and work to restore it to its former glory. But the game is more than just farming – you’ll engage in relationships with the town’s inhabitants, explore caves, and even partake in local festivals.
What makes Stardew Valley so appealing is its balance of peaceful gameplay with the rewarding progression of building your farm and growing relationships. Whether you’re planting crops, raising animals, or mining for resources, there’s always something to do in the charming world of Stardew Valley. If you’re looking for a game that offers comfort and joy, this one is perfect.
6. Dead Cells
Platform: PC, Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Genre: Roguelike, Metroidvania, Action-Adventure
Dead Cells takes the best aspects of Metroidvania and roguelike games and combines them into a fast-paced, highly addictive experience. Developed by Motion Twin, this game lets you explore a sprawling castle filled with enemies, traps, and secrets, all while continuously upgrading your abilities and weapons.
The procedurally generated levels and permadeath mechanics ensure that no two runs are the same, and the combat is fluid and dynamic, with a variety of weapons and strategies to experiment with. If you enjoy fast action, intense combat, and a challenge that keeps you coming back for more, Dead Cells will definitely satisfy your gaming cravings.
7. The Witness
Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Genre: Puzzle, Adventure
The Witness is a first-person puzzle game created by Jonathan Blow, the creator of Braid. In this game, you find yourself on a mysterious island, with the sole goal of solving puzzles that unlock new areas and reveal the deeper story behind the island. The puzzles are based around grids, and they get progressively more complex as you advance.
What sets The Witness apart is the way it teaches you how to solve puzzles without giving you explicit instructions. It encourages exploration and observation, rewarding your curiosity. The minimalist design and serene atmosphere add to the sense of immersion, making it a truly meditative experience. If you enjoy puzzles that make you think, The Witness is a title you won’t want to miss.
8. Cuphead
Platform: PC, Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Genre: Action, Platformer
For those looking for a visually stunning and difficult challenge, Cuphead is a must-play indie game. Developed by Studio MDHR, this run-and-gun platformer features a unique 1930s cartoon art style, reminiscent of the golden age of animation. The game follows Cuphead and his brother Mugman as they try to pay off their debt to the devil by battling bizarre bosses.
The difficulty is high, and the game requires precision, timing, and patience to overcome its many challenges. But the art style, catchy jazz soundtrack, and clever design make the challenge feel rewarding. If you’re up for a tough but visually striking platformer, Cuphead is the game for you.
9. Gris
Platform: PC, Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Genre: Platformer, Adventure
Gris is a visually stunning platformer that tells a quiet, emotional story without any dialogue. Developed by Nomada Studio, the game follows a young girl named Gris as she navigates a world filled with grief and loss. The game’s stunning watercolor art style and ambient soundtrack create a serene and emotional atmosphere that’s rare in the gaming world.
The gameplay focuses on exploration and platforming, with each level representing a different stage of Gris’s emotional journey. The game’s slow pace and focus on emotional storytelling make it an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for something less action-heavy and more reflective, Gris is a beautiful and poignant choice.
Conclusion
Indie games offer a refreshing break from the usual AAA titles, providing you with experiences that are unique, artistic, and often deeply moving. From the fast-paced action of Hades to the emotional journey in Gris, these games showcase the wide range of possibilities that indie developers bring to the table. So, if you haven’t played these titles yet, it’s time to dive into the world of indie games and experience what you’ve been missing. Whether you’re into puzzles, platformers, or action-packed adventures, there’s an indie game out there that will meet your gaming needs. Don’t wait—start playing today!