Top 10 Indie Games to Play This Year
Indie games have been making waves in the gaming industry for years now. These innovative and often risk-taking projects have provided some of the most memorable adventures and unique gameplay experiences. 2023 is already proving to be another major year for indie gems. Here are the top 10 indie games you need to check out this year.
1. Hollow Knight: Silksong
The eagerly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed "Hollow Knight" is finally set to release. "Silksong" follows the journey of Hornet, a character from the original game, in a new, beautifully hand-drawn world filled with deadly enemies and intricate platforming. The game promises an expanded world, new abilities, and an epic narrative that will captivate both returning fans and newcomers.
2. Hades II
Supergiant Games returns with a follow-up to their hit rogue-like dungeon crawler, "Hades." This time, you plunge into the depths of the Underworld with a new protagonist, Melinoë, in her quest against Kronos. Expect beautifully stylized art, engaging combat mechanics, and a story enriched with Greek mythology.
3. Tunic
This charming action-adventure game starring a small fox in a big world has been winning hearts. With its isometric view and a mix of exploration and combat, "Tunic" draws inspiration from classic adventure games like "The Legend of Zelda," but with a unique twist. The game is rich in puzzles and secrets waiting to be uncovered.
4. 12 Minutes
In this real-time, top-down interactive thriller, you play as a man trapped in a time loop. As the name suggests, events unfold over a 12-minute cycle, and it's up to you to piece together the mystery and find a way to break the loop. With voice acting by James McAvoy, Daisy Ridley, and Willem Dafoe, "12 Minutes" is a gripping experience from start to finish.
5. The Pathless
From the makers of "Abzû" comes "The Pathless," a breathtaking open-world adventure where you play as the Hunter, a master archer accompanied by an eagle. Together, you must lift the curse of darkness afflicting your world. The fluid movement mechanics and seamless speed-based traversal make this a thrilling and visually stunning journey.
6. Kena: Bridge of Spirits
This action-adventure title by Ember Lab boasts gorgeous animation and heartfelt storytelling. "Kena: Bridge of Spirits" casts you as Kena, a young spirit guide who seeks to uncover the secrets of a forgotten village. The game features a blend of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving, all wrapped in a visually enchanting package.
7. Death's Door
Developed by Acid Nerve, "Death's Door" is an action-adventure game where you play as a crow tasked with collecting the souls of the dead. The game features tight combat mechanics, a haunting yet humorous narrative, and an intriguing world filled with secrets to unlock.
8. Solar Ash Kingdom
From the creators of "Hyper Light Drifter," "Solar Ash Kingdom" offers a surreal, vividly colored world to explore. As you glide through vast landscapes and battle enormous creatures, the game's emphasis on fluid movement and striking art style makes it a mesmerizing experience.
9. Chicory: A Colorful Tale
In "Chicory: A Colorful Tale," you wield a magical paintbrush to restore color to a black-and-white world. This charming adventure is filled with creative puzzles and expressive art, showcasing the power of imagination. It's a touching and whimsical story that celebrates creativity and self-expression.
10. Eastward
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, "Eastward" follows John and Sam on a journey through a society on the brink of collapse. With a nostalgic 2D visual style and deeply engaging storytelling, the game draws players into its richly detailed world. The blend of RPG mechanics, puzzle-solving, and memorable characters makes "Eastward" a must-play.
These indie titles exemplify the creativity, passion, and innovation that define the indie game scene. Whether you're a veteran of the genre or a newcomer looking for a fresh experience, these games offer something unique and captivating. So grab your controller, dive in, and discover the small-scale wonders that await!