The indie game scene has always been a hotbed for creativity and unique experiences. In recent years, more and more developers have embraced the freedom that comes with creating indie titles, leading to a flourishing market filled with innovative and memorable games. Whether you’re a fan of deep narratives, challenging gameplay, or striking visuals, there’s something for everyone on the indie market. Below are some of the best indie games to play on PC this year, each offering something distinctive and exciting.
Hades – A Dungeon-Crawling Adventure
One of the standout titles of the past year has been Hades, developed by Supergiant Games. This rogue-like dungeon crawler mixes fast-paced action with a rich narrative, all set within the depths of Greek mythology. Players take on the role of Zagreus, the son of Hades, as he attempts to escape the underworld. The game’s combat is tight and fluid, offering a satisfying experience for fans of action games. In addition, the story is intricately woven into the gameplay, with various gods and mythological figures providing both guidance and hindrances.
Not only is Hades visually stunning, but it also offers an excellent replayability factor due to its procedurally generated levels. This means no two runs are ever the same, keeping the game fresh and exciting every time you dive back in. Fans of rogue-like games will find themselves coming back to this title time and time again.
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Celeste – A Challenging Yet Heartfelt Platformer
If you’re in the mood for a platformer that’s both challenging and emotionally gripping, Celeste is the game you need to try. Developed by Maddy Makes Games, Celeste follows the journey of Madeline, a young woman determined to climb the treacherous Celeste Mountain. This seemingly simple task becomes a metaphor for her personal struggles and self-discovery.
The game’s level design is nothing short of brilliant, offering some of the most intricate and challenging platforming sections you’ll ever encounter. The mechanics are tight, and the controls are precise, making every leap, dash, and wall jump feel satisfying. As you progress, the narrative unfolds, giving depth to Madeline’s character and her struggles with mental health. It’s a touching story wrapped up in a beautiful pixel art style, making Celeste one of the most memorable indie titles in recent years.
Disco Elysium – An Unforgettable Narrative Experience
Disco Elysium is a game that has taken the gaming world by storm. Developed by ZA/UM, this is an isometric RPG where players take on the role of a disgraced detective who wakes up in a strange city with no memory of his past. The game places a heavy emphasis on narrative and choice, with the story unfolding based on the decisions you make. Your detective’s skills, such as logic, empathy, and authority, shape how you interact with the world and other characters.
Unlike traditional RPGs, Disco Elysium has no combat. Instead, the game relies on dialogue, exploration, and internal monologues to drive the story forward. The writing is sharp and witty, and the world is richly detailed, filled with political intrigue and existential musings. If you love deep storytelling with complex characters, Disco Elysium should be at the top of your list.
Hollow Knight – A Masterclass in Metroidvania
Another fantastic title that has captured the hearts of gamers is Hollow Knight, a Metroidvania-style game developed by Team Cherry. The game features an expansive, interconnected world filled with challenging enemies, intricate platforming, and hidden secrets. You play as a small, silent knight exploring a fallen kingdom, uncovering its dark history as you journey deeper into the unknown.
The hand-drawn art style of Hollow Knight is breathtaking, and its atmospheric soundtrack complements the hauntingly beautiful world. The game strikes the perfect balance between exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving, making it a standout in the genre. Fans of games like Metroid or Castlevania will find much to love in Hollow Knight, especially with its challenging bosses and tight controls.
Oxenfree – A Supernatural Adventure
If you’re a fan of narrative-driven experiences with a touch of the supernatural, Oxenfree is a must-play. Developed by Night School Studio, Oxenfree follows a group of friends who unintentionally open a ghostly rift while visiting a mysterious island. As the protagonist, Alex, you must unravel the island’s mysteries while dealing with strange occurrences and the growing tension among the group.
What sets Oxenfree apart is its innovative dialogue system. Conversations unfold naturally as you explore, allowing you to interrupt or change the flow of the dialogue at any moment. This system creates a sense of immersion, making the interactions feel more real. The game’s eerie atmosphere, combined with its clever writing and supernatural plot, makes for an unforgettable experience.
The Witness – A Thought-Provoking Puzzle Game
For those who enjoy puzzle games, The Witness by Jonathan Blow is one of the best you can play. Set on a mysterious island, the game asks players to solve a series of intricate puzzles that unlock more of the island’s secrets. Each puzzle is built around the concept of learning and pattern recognition, requiring you to pay attention to your surroundings and think critically about the world you’re exploring.
The beauty of The Witness lies in its simplicity. There are no instructions, no hand-holding—just you and the environment. The game doesn’t just rely on challenging puzzles; it also incorporates a philosophical narrative that makes you question the nature of knowledge and discovery. It’s a game that pushes the boundaries of the puzzle genre and rewards players who enjoy a mental challenge.
Slay the Spire – A Rogue-Like Deckbuilder
Slay the Spire is a rogue-like deckbuilding game that has garnered a large following since its release. In this game, you build a deck of cards as you progress through randomly generated levels, each filled with enemies and challenges. Your goal is to reach the top of the spire, but the path is never easy.
The game’s card system offers a great deal of strategic depth, as you can craft your deck with various synergies to suit your playstyle. With every run being different, Slay the Spire offers a high level of replayability. Fans of card games and rogue-like mechanics will find Slay the Spire to be an addictive and rewarding experience.
These are just a few of the best indie games to play on PC this year, each offering unique gameplay and stories that stand out in the crowded gaming world. Whether you enjoy fast-paced action, intricate puzzle-solving, or deep narratives, these games will provide hours of entertainment and offer new experiences every time you play.