“Rooting for the underdog” applies to gaming, too. Dedicated developers in small studios worldwide work to craft immersive, innovative worlds for gamers of all stripes. Unfortunately, no matter how novel, indie titles sometimes get buried beneath headlines about AAA studios’ blockbuster releases.
To champion the creativity, passion, and innovation that make gaming great, check out these 10 games you may not know but have the potential to become your new fave.
Thank Goodness You’re Here!
In this cute 2024 release from Panic Inc., players control a traveling salesman as he finds his way to the mayor of Barnsworth, an eyebrow-raising English town. While patiently waiting for your meeting with the mayor, explore nearby shops, engage with some seriously strange NPCs, and put your nose where it doesn’t belong.
Pizza Tower
Since its release, critical darling Pizza Tower has amassed a passionate following. Still, many gamers have yet to join stressing chef Peppino Spaghetti on his quest to keep his quirky pizzeria from meeting its demise. A masterclass in both pixel art and platforming, Pizza Tower will keep gamers invested.
Cat Quest
Never played an RPG before? Cat Quest, the inaugural installment in a now-beloved trinity, players navigate an unnamed feline protagonist beyond the bold baddies of Felingard, all to rescue his sister from the hands of Drakoth the Dragonblood. Prepare to put your paws together for this pun-laden adventure!
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Animal Well
In the first release from studio Bigmode, helmed by popular streamer videogamedunkey and his wife Leah, gamers control an amorphous blob through challenging — and rewarding! — puzzles and stages. Players must dive into the deepest corners of an extensive map, keeping an eye out for interactable items, mysterious sounds, secret paths, or any elements that could progress their adventure.
The Big Con
Become a ne’er-do-well youth in The Big Con, a kitschy stealth-adventure game from Skybound Games. Millennials and Gen Xers will fall in love with the art style and color palette, both of which evoke that nostalgic “90’s cartoon” feeling. Radical!
Mini Motorways
Addictive puzzler Mini Motorways has the power to transform even the most video game-averse person you know into a city planner overnight. Efficiently connect city residents to their destinations by implementing roundabouts, stop signs, and bridges connecting the map’s furthest corners. Tread lightly, though, as your citizens’ commute can get crazy quickly.
Nine Sols
This gorgeous, hand-drawn platformer takes gamers on a fantasy-rich trip through a futuristic Asian world. Play as Yi as you take down omniscient and all-powerful ancient entities. Stay on your toes, strategically time each attack, and uncover remarkable new abilities.
Penny’s Big Breakaway
Penny has her yo-yo, and she’s ready to go-go! In this bright 3D platformer that hits all the right notes, gamers control street performer Penny as she evades Eddie and his pervasive penguin using parkour-like abilities. Swing, soar, speed, and snag power-up snacks along the way.
Balatro
This poker-themed deckbuilder took the industry by storm in 2024, racking up impressive reviews and snagging several awards and accolades. The game, created by a single anonymous dev from Canada, turns the traditional card game on its head by implementing powerful Jokers gamers must play just right or risk it all.
Celeste
In this 8-bit epic, players assist protagonist Madeline in her journey to the top of Celeste Mountain. She hits some snags along the way — storms, strangers, and other challenges — but they don’t deter your driven protagonist on her profound journey. Are you brave enough to make it to the top, or will the hidden secrets of Celeste Mountain bring your story to an early end?
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A lifelong gamer raised on classic titles like Crash Bandicoot, Spyro, and Croc, Stephanie brings her expertise of gaming and pop culture to deliver unique, refreshing views on the world of video games, complete with references to absurd and obscure media.
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