Discovering hidden gems in the world of indie games can be both exciting and challenging. In this article, we have compiled a list of ten of the best indie games you’ve probably never heard of. From the beautiful and challenging platformer Celeste that explores mental health to the narrative-driven adventure game Night in the Woods that uncovers dark secrets, each of these games has something unique to offer. Other games on this list include the hauntingly beautiful action-adventure game Hollow Knight, the puzzle game with a unique art style Return of the Obra Dinn, and the retro-inspired action-RPG CrossCode. Whether you’re a fan of classic RPGs or fast-paced action platformers, there’s something here for everyone.
10 Best Indie Games You’ve Never Heard Of
If you’re an avid gamer, you know that the indie game world is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. It can sometimes be difficult to find these lesser-known titles, but they’re often worth the effort. Here, we’ve compiled a list of 10 of the best indie games you’ve never heard of. Get ready to expand your gaming horizons!
1. Celeste
Celeste is a beautiful, challenging platformer that tells an emotional story of self-discovery and mental health. You play as Madeline, a young woman who sets out to climb a treacherous mountain, overcoming obstacles both physical and mental along the way. The game’s tight controls and 8-bit-inspired graphics make it a joy to play, while its story is poignant, thought-provoking, and ultimately uplifting.
2. Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is a 2D Metroidvania-style action-adventure game set in a dark, atmospheric world of insects. You play as a silent, nameless knight, exploring the vast underground kingdom of Hallownest and battling various bugs and monsters along the way. The game’s intricate level design, haunting music, and stunning hand-drawn art style make it a memorable experience.
3. Night in the Woods
Night in the Woods is a narrative-driven adventure game that tells the story of Mae Borowski, a college dropout who returns to her hometown of Possum Springs and reconnects with her old friends. Through conversations, exploration, and mini-games, you’ll uncover the town’s dark secrets and learn about Mae’s struggles with depression, anxiety, and other issues. The game’s charming visuals and witty writing make it an unforgettable journey.
4. Return of the Obra Dinn
Return of the Obra Dinn is a puzzle game with a unique art style and a fascinating premise: you play as an insurance investigator sent to a ghost ship in the early 19th century, tasked with identifying the fate of its crew members. Using a magical pocket watch, you can examine each crew member’s final moments and piece together their stories. The game’s clever detective work and striking black-and-white graphics make it a standout title.
5. Oxenfree
Oxenfree is a supernatural thriller that follows a group of teenagers who accidentally open a rift to another dimension on an abandoned island. As protagonist Alex, you’ll explore the island, solve puzzles, and make choices that affect the outcome of the game’s branching story. The game’s unique dialogue system, which allows you to interrupt and overlap conversations, adds to its authenticity and immersion.
6. Firewatch
Firewatch is a first-person adventure game set in the Wyoming wilderness in 1989. You play as Henry, a fire lookout who’s tasked with watching for fires and maintaining equipment in the forest. As you explore the area and communicate with your supervisor, Delilah, you’ll uncover a mystery and make choices that affect the story’s outcome. The game’s breathtaking vistas and immersive audio design make it a meditative experience.
7. CrossCode
CrossCode is a retro-inspired action-RPG that combines 16-bit graphics with modern gameplay mechanics. You play as Lea, a girl trapped in a virtual reality game called CrossWorlds, who seeks to regain her memories and complete her quest. The game’s challenging combat, vast open world, and intricate puzzles make it a satisfying experience for fans of classic RPGs.
8. Katana ZERO
Katana ZERO is a fast-paced action platformer that puts you in the shoes of a hitman with time-manipulating powers. As you slice and dice your way through levels, you’ll make choices that affect the story’s outcome and unravel a conspiracy involving drugs, time travel, and government conspiracies. The game’s stylish visuals, synthwave soundtrack, and branching paths make it a gripping, addictive experience.
9. West of Loathing
West of Loathing is a comedy RPG set in the Wild West, filled with absurd humor, puns, and fourth-wall-breaking jokes. You play as a stick-figure cowboy, wandering the dusty trails of the frontier, fighting off bandits and dealing with various wacky situations. The game’s hand-drawn art, clever writing, and endless charm make it a delightful romp.
10. A Short Hike
A Short Hike is a charming exploration game about a bird who just wants to climb a mountain. As you hike your way up the mountain, you’ll meet various animals, collect treasure, and discover secrets, all while enjoying the game’s relaxing soundtrack and delightful visuals. The game’s open-world design and sense of playfulness make it a delightful experience for all ages.
That’s our list of the 10 best indie games you’ve never heard of. These games represent the diverse range of experiences you can find in the indie game world, from emotional narratives to challenging puzzles to hilarious comedies. We hope you’ll give them a try and discover some new favorites of your own.