Indie games have always had a unique place in the gaming industry, offering fresh ideas, creativity, and experiences that larger studios often overlook. Whether it’s through a distinctive art style, innovative mechanics, or intriguing storytelling, indie games often surprise players with their depth and charm. Every year, a plethora of indie titles are released, but some remain hidden gems, overshadowed by big-name releases or missed by mainstream audiences.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of hidden indie games you must try this year. These titles may not have made the headlines, but they are certainly worth your time. From action-packed adventures to atmospheric narratives, here’s a list of hidden indie games that deserve a spot on your gaming playlist.
Why Indie Games Matter
Before we dive into the best hidden indie games, let’s take a moment to understand why indie games matter in today’s gaming industry.
Innovation and Creativity
Indie developers often have the freedom to experiment with ideas that large studios might consider too risky. This freedom leads to fresh mechanics, storytelling techniques, and game genres that you might not see in mainstream titles.
Personal Experience
Indie games frequently focus on delivering a more personal, immersive experience. With smaller development teams, these games often come from passionate creators who pour their hearts into every detail, resulting in memorable, emotional journeys.
Unique Art and Sound Design
Indie games are known for their innovative art styles, from pixel art to minimalist design. Coupled with atmospheric soundtracks, these games often offer an aesthetic experience that larger games might lack.
Let’s now explore some hidden indie games you must try this year.
1. Outer Wilds: Echoes of the Eye
Overview of Outer Wilds
Outer Wilds, a critically acclaimed indie game, has an expansion that adds a thrilling new layer to the already mysterious universe. “Echoes of the Eye” is an expansion that adds a new moon and a compelling mystery that fits seamlessly into the original game’s exploration-based gameplay.
Key Features:
- Exploration: Dive into space and explore a small solar system with mysterious planets.
- Time Loop Mechanic: The game operates on a time loop, with each cycle revealing more about the universe.
- Atmospheric Storytelling: Discover a hidden story while navigating ancient ruins and deciphering cryptic puzzles.
Why It’s Hidden:
Outer Wilds didn’t get the massive attention it deserved initially, but its thought-provoking gameplay and captivating story make it a must-play for fans of exploration and narrative-driven games.
2. Tunic
Overview of Tunic
Tunic is an action-adventure game inspired by classics like the Legend of Zelda series. Its charming protagonist, a small fox, explores a mysterious world filled with ancient relics, hidden dungeons, and powerful enemies.
Key Features:
- Challenging Combat: Tunic offers a tight and challenging combat system where every fight counts.
- Mystery-Filled World: Players must decipher a foreign language to fully understand the lore and puzzles within the game.
- Beautiful Visuals: The game features a gorgeous isometric world with detailed environments.
Why It’s Hidden:
Tunic received limited attention due to its quiet release and being overshadowed by larger games. However, its combination of mystery, exploration, and engaging combat make it a standout in the indie space.
3. A Short Hike
Overview of A Short Hike
A Short Hike is a relaxing and joyful adventure game where players control a bird named Claire who embarks on a short hike to the summit of a mountain. Along the way, players encounter charming NPCs, participate in mini-games, and enjoy a beautifully crafted world.
Key Features:
- Open-World Exploration: Explore a vibrant island with various side quests and hidden secrets.
- Casual Gameplay: Relax with simple yet enjoyable mechanics, perfect for players seeking a laid-back experience.
- Charming Characters: Meet quirky, endearing characters that provide meaningful interactions.
Why It’s Hidden:
A Short Hike didn’t get as much media attention as other games in its genre. Still, its heartfelt charm and peaceful nature have made it a cult favorite for players looking for a soothing, non-violent gaming experience.
4. Eastward
Overview of Eastward
Eastward is a beautifully crafted pixel-art RPG that blends engaging exploration with a unique post-apocalyptic setting. It’s a story-driven game about a man named John and his young companion, Sam, as they journey through a world full of secrets, quirky characters, and bizarre environments.
Key Features:
- Rich Storytelling: The game’s narrative is filled with emotional depth and compelling dialogue.
- Pixel Art: The game features stunning pixel-art visuals that evoke a sense of nostalgia while maintaining a modern feel.
- Puzzle and Combat Elements: Eastward mixes combat with environmental puzzles that challenge players to think strategically.
Why It’s Hidden:
Eastward may have flown under the radar for many gamers due to its quiet launch and niche appeal, but its captivating visuals and narrative make it a must-try.
5. Omori
Overview of Omori
Omori is a quirky RPG that combines a unique art style with deep psychological storytelling. The game follows Omori, a young boy who navigates a strange world, encountering whimsical characters and uncovering dark secrets.
Key Features:
- Emotional Depth: The game deals with heavy themes such as mental health, trauma, and identity.
- Turn-Based Combat: Engage in strategic, turn-based combat with a variety of attacks and abilities.
- Dream-Like Aesthetic: The game’s art style is reminiscent of a surreal dream, with bright colors and unsettling elements.
Why It’s Hidden:
Omori’s niche appeal and unusual art style may have kept it from reaching a wider audience. However, its emotional depth and unique mechanics make it one of the most compelling indie games of the year.
6. Spelunky 2
Overview of Spelunky 2
Spelunky 2, the sequel to the beloved roguelike platformer, is a challenging and rewarding experience for those who enjoy tough but fair gameplay. The game features intricate level design and tough enemies that require precise timing and strategy.
Key Features:
- Procedurally Generated Levels: Each playthrough offers new challenges with randomized levels.
- Multiplayer Mode: You can team up with friends or go head-to-head in competitive multiplayer.
- Challenging Difficulty: Like its predecessor, Spelunky 2 doesn’t hold your hand, offering a brutal yet rewarding challenge.
Why It’s Hidden:
Although the Spelunky franchise is well-known, Spelunky 2 didn’t get as much attention as other roguelikes. Still, it’s a must-try for fans of challenging platformers and roguelikes.
7. Chicory: A Colorful Tale
Overview of Chicory: A Colorful Tale
Chicory: A Colorful Tale is a top-down adventure game where you control a dog named Paintbrush, exploring a world that has lost its color. Your goal is to bring color back to the world using a magical paintbrush.
Key Features:
- Artistic Exploration: Use the paintbrush to solve puzzles, restore color, and interact with the environment.
- Emotional Story: The game features an uplifting and heartwarming story about art, creativity, and finding your place in the world.
- Open-Ended Gameplay: The game encourages exploration, allowing you to express your creativity freely.
Why It’s Hidden:
Chicory didn’t get the attention it deserved at launch but is widely praised for its charming gameplay and emotional depth. It’s a unique experience for players who love creativity and exploration.
8. Death’s Door
Overview of Death’s Door
Death’s Door is an action-adventure game where players control a crow who collects souls. The game features fast-paced combat, puzzle-solving, and a beautiful, dark world to explore.
Key Features:
- Fluid Combat: Enjoy satisfying combat with a variety of weapons and abilities.
- Story-Driven: The game has a captivating narrative that explores life, death, and the afterlife.
- Atmospheric World: The world is filled with stunning visuals and dark, eerie environments.
Why It’s Hidden:
While Death’s Door received positive reviews, it didn’t capture the mainstream attention it deserved. However, its tight gameplay and rich world-building make it an unforgettable experience.
Also Read: Best VR Games For Beginners
Conclusion
Indie games continue to innovate and surprise players with unique, engaging experiences that often go unnoticed in the shadow of major AAA titles. The games mentioned above are perfect examples of how indie developers are pushing boundaries in terms of art, storytelling, and gameplay. If you’re looking for something fresh and exciting to play, these hidden gems are definitely worth your time.
FAQs
1. Where can I find these hidden indie games?
Most of these games are available on platforms like Steam, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox. Some are also available on mobile platforms and Epic Games Store.
2. Are indie games more expensive than mainstream games?
Typically, indie games are more affordable than their AAA counterparts. However, prices can vary depending on the game’s scope and development.
3. Why should I play indie games instead of mainstream ones?
Indie games often provide unique and personal experiences, with developers experimenting with innovative gameplay, art styles, and storytelling techniques that larger studios might avoid.
4. Are these indie games suitable for all ages?
Many indie games cater to a wide range of age groups. However, some may include mature themes or challenging gameplay that is better suited for older players. Always check the game’s rating before playing.
5. How do I find more hidden indie games?
Keep an eye on indie game showcases like the Independent Games Festival (IGF), Steam’s Indie Games section, or follow indie game developers on social media platforms to stay updated on new releases.
