GAMERS DECIDE - best indie games

Chef RPG: 10 Things You Need To Know About This Cooking RPG

MarineMyste — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 14:15:48 +0000

Have you imagined what the perfect cooking simulator would look like? What if there was a game that was heavily inspired by Stardew Valley’s art style and story, but on top of being a farmer you are also a traveling chef? Let me introduce you to Chef RPG.

The story starts with you arriving in a seaside town, one that used to be a popular tourist destination. You are now tasked to revive a once shining restaurant named “Le Sequoia”. As you explore the town, you meet unique and quirky locals, and discover the secrets of White Ash Harbor. You have the chance to help the town be a stunning spot for people to visit again. All of this while you get to decide what kind of chef YOU want to be.

This is the basic premise of Chef RPG, a pixel art game that has been in development for more than three years. It’s a game that was inspired by Stardew Valley, Eastward and Gordon Ramsay’s Great Escape. It launched a Kickstarter back in 2021 and got a massive funding of $126,000 dollars. It will be released on PC, Mac and Nintendo Switch.

Here are 10 things you need to know about Chef RPG and why it’s worth your time.

1. Experience Being a Chef First Hand

Being a chef and a manager of your own restaurant is not a brand new concept in gaming. Games like Cooking Mama, or Traveller’s Rest have done it already. Chef RPG offers the same features as these games, but more.

In this game, there are 200+ recipes to collect with cooking mini games that go along with each one. Additionally you get to customize your own restaurant, from tables and chairs, to stoves, and ovens.

What sets Chef RPG apart though is their vision to make you the chef you want to be. They have five different restaurant operation modes, where each one has its own pros and cons.

Restaurant: Appetizers and mains will always be ordered, and additional earnings from main courses
Social House: Additional orders for drinks and satisfaction for customers
Pub: additional orders for drinks, and earnings
Teahouse: additional earnings, and beverage speed
Confectionary: Additional cooking speed and orders for desserts

2. Hunt For Your Own Ingredients!

One of Chef RPG’s unique mechanics will be collecting your own ingredients, and that includes hunting for your own meat. Snippets of this have been shown on their trailer, and their Kickstarter.

Gordon Ramsay mentioned in one of his shows that many chefs collect their ingredients in the wild. This idea became a huge part of the game’s core concepts. While the main feature of the game will be managing the restaurant, the creator wanted that mechanic to tie in flawlessly with hunting and foraging to create a holistic experience.

With this, you get to see the process of your dish from start to finish.

3. You Get to Manage Your Own Staff

Chef RPG has a system built specifically for its staff feature. Other games of the same genre would only have the same NPC doing the same job. This makes the experience feel artificial. Chef RPG goes beyond this.

In this game you can customize your own staff, from their skin color to their clothes. You also have the ability to assign them on which restaurants of yours they would work on. On top of this, each chef and waiter has their own skills which you can level up by giving them more tasks. The creator also mentioned a gacha system where you have the chance to roll a legendary worker, with phenomenal stats.

4. A Potential for Co-op?

With Stardew Valley having a multiplayer feature available, you might wonder if the same could be said for Chef RPG. Other fans have voiced out the same concerns, and even offered ideas as to how co-op could be applied.

Unfortunately, co-op will not be available by the launch date of September 2023. The creator said that they want to focus on improving the single player experience as much as possible. The good news is that the team is open in implementing this feature in the future.

5. The Creator is a Well-Seasoned Architect

Make sure to take your time and appreciate every single building in this game because you might miss something extraordinary. The creator knows how to express the building’s story through its design due to his years of experience as an architect. The walls have unique colors due to aging, the stairs are well-integrated, and you can easily feel the vibe of the building with just one look.

The creator has joined numerous architect contests online. This gave him valuable experience in designing, making him more flexible and creative throughout the years. Players can easily follow the art process of his work on his YouTube. There are videos on how he created a bath house inspired by Spirited Away, a house on a waterfall, and many more.

6. Multiple Narratives to Discover

The world of Chef RPG gives you a lot of freedom to explore, but it also gives a linear narrative to discover what kind of chef you wanna become. Based on its Kickstarter, Chef RPG will have a main storyline where your decision will affect your identity.

Do you wanna be the best hunter around? A social person? Or perhaps a 5 star chef? These are just some of the options the game offers. The more you play the game, the more skill points you’ll earn as the game has its own skill tree.

There is also the story of the main characters. You would encounter their quests which could potentially raise their affection for you. There is already a dev post in Kickstarter where the creator shows the UI design for the character’s relationship status with you. Every character has a memorable personality so be sure not to miss them.

7. Enjoy the Gorgeous Art

Chef RPG’s pixel art can stand against other popular games in the similar genre. The coloring and shading of the game’s buildings is something to look out for. The creator also made sure to add small details and shadings to every character, even the nameless NPCs, to ensure great quality for the players.

In addition to this, every single character portrait feels unique in this game. One of the favorites is Hasel who is an android that works in a bubble tea restaurant. Aylin is another memorable one. She’s also an android but has features of a Japanese geisha. That is only two of the many characters this game has to offer. There are 24 character portraits in the Kickstarter and it is up to you to find out more about them.

8. The Alpha Version is Out!

The alpha version of Chef RPG was released back in April 7, 2023. This is an exclusive content for the backers of the Kickstarter back in 2021. This will greatly improve the development of the game as the dev team will receive tons of feedback and reports of bugs. Soon enough the beta release will go public and everyone, including you, will see a better version of the game.

As shown in the image above, a lot of the features are already available. One example is the hunting feature. Players would discover that there are two kinds of hunting minigames they can play to gather meat for their restaurant. Quests from important characters are also ready for players to progress their storylines.

But we all know that the most exciting part would be the grand opening of Le Sequoia itself. Thankfully, backers already have the option to purchase appliances and decorate the restaurant however they like. Recipes can now also be collected. Once they’re ready, they can play the cooking minigames and serve dishes to their customers.

9. A Well-Designed World

Everything in Chef RPG’s world has a backstory, from Le Sequoia to the bath house. There is a lot to do with every section of the map. There is White Ash Harbour where you’ll meet most of the NPCs, and there is also the swamps where you can hunt .

White Ash Harbor also feels alive due to the animated signs of the stores. The creator said that the place is inspired by Akihabara at night where their neon animated signs shine. It is also inspired by the seaside towns in Canada where the mist covers the majority of the place. You could barely see what’s in front of you. The creator gave the harbor the same vibe.

10. To be Released on Multiple Languages

According to Chef RPG’s Kickstarter page they will release the game in English first. One of the creator’s goals is to make the restaurant and the town feel real rather than a simulated environment. To make this possible, there are a lot of dialogues and texts prompted by the NPCs such as commenting on your clothes or your actions.

Once the game is fully released and the team has more time on their hands, the game will be localized in French, Spanish, Italian, German, Portuguese, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese and Korean. This makes it accessible for a wider audience. According to the timeline in Chef RPG’s Kickstarter page, the full release will be around September 2023.

If you are interested in more games similar to Chef RPG, here are more articles you can read.

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Get ready to revive what once was a booming tourist spot with your skills as a chef

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To the Moon - Beach Episode: 10 Things You Need To Know

MarineMyste — Sun, 03 Sep 2023 17:58:38 +0000

What if you have a chance to rewrite your life? Would you take it?

This is the basic premise of the stories made by the game company: Freebird Games. They have three main games, specifically “To the Moon”, “Finding Paradise”, and “Imposter Factory”. In these stories, Dr. Eva and Dr.Neil are the main protagonists. They can grant wishes of people who are about to meet their end with the help of their machine.

Freebird Games is about to release their latest installment entitled “To the Moon - Beach Episode”. The name implies that the experience would be light and fun for the audience as the characters would probably go on their vacation.

Despite this, fans already have their suspicions that this game would be more than a “beach episode”. User "KeeperofUntoldDreams" commented on their official YouTube channel.

"Given what this series is, I'm still prepared for feels."

Freebird Games isn’t fooling anyone with their titles anymore. Fans have learned, and are ready for the “feels”. With basic background out of the way, here are 10 things fans need to know why “To The Moon - Beach Episode” is worth buying.

1. Everyone is Here!

Fans would be thrilled to know that every single main character from each trilogy would be all in one game. Questions such as “how would they interact” would be answered in this latest installment. Eva, Neil, Roxanne, and Lin will be also joining the party. The other two doctors will finally have the chance to meet Eva and Neil’s patients throughout the years.

There are visuals from the game’s Steam page that show everyone having a great time. There is River and Johnny on the beach, Colin’s family enjoying a fancy lunch, and Quincy and Lynri enjoying their vacation in a pool. However, there is something fishy found within the game’s description:

“Join familiar faces from To the Moon, Finding Paradise, and Impostor Factory in this narrative adventure filled with mini-games, mysteries and relaxation, as well as--

Wait, most of the characters here should already be dead.”

Well, I guess we can only know more once we play the game.

2. More Than One Ending?!

Every game under Freebird Games only has one ending since time in memorial. Their focus is to give an impactful narrative. Their stories feel like a well-written and compacted novel with a bittersweet ending every single time.

However times have changed. According to an interview with Kan Gao (the main writer for Freebird Games), he wishes foryou to find the “actual ending scene”. This implies that there is more than one ending, and that fans have to do a little digging to find it.

It is exciting to see how Freebird Games would handle a narrative with multiple finales Would each one be as bittersweet and tragic? What message are they trying to impart to the audience with each ending? These are just some of the questions you’ll have about the game’s new direction.

3. You can be Part of The Game!

“We’ve always wanted to give the community a memento of the series itself. But also a way for the community to be part of the game itself.”

“Everyone who contributes to this campaign will be able to leave their own name and message into upcoming To the Moon - Beach Episode”

This was Kan Gao’s message to the fans in the trailer of his recently launched Kickstarter campaign. “Bestest Memories” is a card game that launched on Kickstarter back in August 15. More information can be seen through the link here. You can purchase any reward tier, from 5$ to $285, to include your name and message on the beach episode permanently.

Kan Gao also mentioned in the trailer that you can share your unique code in order for your friends to see your message, and vice versa.

The team of Freebird Games care for their fans over the years. This latest installment is not just another project but also a collaboration between them and their audience.

4. One to Two Hours of Gameplay

Have you ever watched a movie that made you cry? Despite its two hours of run time, compared to an 18 hr game or a TV show, they’ll forever be immortalized in your mind as you reflect about them. That is how every stories in Freebird Games’ feels like. They are short yet meaningful. To the Moon has around four hours of game time, and the same goes for the rest of their main games.

According to a livestream posted in Kan Gao’s Youtube channel, he shares that “It’s longer than a minisode but shorter than a full game”. Included in those hours are the multiple endings that were teased in his interview. What’s not included, however, are the number of hours you would sink in once they replay the game. Freebird Games have high replayable value due to their narrative and impact to the audience.

5. A Growing Sandcastle Built by You and the Doctors

It's revealed in the Bestest Memories’ Kickstarter page that one of their milestones was building a sandcastle in the game. It would feature a cute moment between the four main doctors. On top of this, it is said that the sandcastle would grow and scale alongside the Kickstarter campaign. It would be a visual representation of the community’s collective love and effort towards the series. The more the campaign is funded, the bigger the sandcastle grows. It will start from something small only for it to grow beyond your imagination.

This feature would be similar to the messages left at the beach as the love of the fans will continue to live on in the game. Future generations would be able to see just how much of an impact the game left for thousands of people.

6. A New Animated CG

Freebird Games mainly release pixelated games. This can be seen in their trailers. The same cannot be said for this beach episode.

This isn’t the first time these games have animation, Freebird Games love to heighten the climax with music and computer graphics (CG). To the Moon and Finding Paradise each had one CG. Imposter Factory took it to another level by having one CG and one short animation.

The trailer is currently the longest animation the studio has done. The full version may be seen in the game itself, and fans are already deciphering it’s meaning. This is also why a lot of the fans feel as if this Beach Episode is a main game rather than a side story. The side stories didn’t have a singleCG nor an animation, only the main ones.

7. Available on Limited Platforms

Freebird Games is an indie studio with a limited budget. It is their goal to impart a lasting narrative rather than invest on high end graphics that would compete with other triple A games. As such, they prefer personal platforms like Android and Nintendo Switch.

It goes without saying that “To the Moon - Beach Episode” will be released on PC. It will be available on Steam, GoG, and the Humble Bundle store. There are no announcements for other ports. However with gradual release of their games on other devices, perhaps you can enjoy it on their androids and switches in the years to come.

8. To be Released at the End of 2023 (Beach Episode on Christmas?)

At the end of the game’s trailer, it was revealed that it’s release date is around the end of 2023 (December). The beach episode will also be released alongside their latest card game: Bestest Memories. This is confirmed by the released dates in their Kickstarter which states “Dec 2023”.

It’s comedical to think that a beach episode would be published during the time for Christmas. However, this is a great opportunity for the studio as Christmas seasons are usually the times people are willing to spend. The game can serve as a gift for themselves or their loved ones. It is also the month where people receive Christmas bonuses from their bosses, or cash from their relatives.

This is also a great chance for you to buy it at the cheapest price possible as Steam usually creates a Christmas sale for 99% of their games.

9. A Story About Eva

To the moon, and Finding Paradise focused on the patient’s stories, while Imposter Factory explored Dr. Neil’s backstory. Unfortunately Dr. Eva’s hasn’t gotten her spotlight just yet. Her story only had hints shown in the franchise but never truly explored. Perhaps this time things would be different.

The trailer heavily implies that major plot points will focus on Eva. Fans have been speculating about her story way back in 2015 when Sigmund Minisode was released. It raised a lot of questions. In the game, there was a scene when Eva was talking to someone when everything glitches and it shifts to her using a machine. Fans recognize it as the same machine Eva and Neil use for their patients to rewrite their memories.

There is a high chance that this game will finally have an explanation as to what exactly was happening to Eva and the machine.

10. Not the End, but a Long Rest

The most heartbreaking news was when Kan Gao revealed in an interview that this game will leave a “finale feel” to its audience. It will serve as some sort of conclusion to the entire series so far. Hopefully this game will answer every question, big or small, that were scattered in the previous installments.

Kan Gao is open to continuing the “To the Moon” franchise. However he has declared that this beach episode will serve as a stopping point for a while. The franchise deserves some rest, and the team will be open in creating new projects separated to the world of “To the Moon”.

If you are interested in story heavy or pixelated indie games, here are more articles you can read to discover more of them.

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It's finally time for the doctors to get their well deserved vacation

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[Top 15] Best Free Indie Open World Games

Alina Lazarte — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 04:09:50 +0000

15. Unturned - 2017 (PC / PS4 / PS5 / XBO )

Unturned is a survival sandbox set in an apocalyptic world. You must survive in a dangerous environment infested by zombies. The first move is to look for a shelter. In time, you can build a strong fortress. Gather resources, food, hunt, and harvest your plants. Not only the zombies and nature can be dangerous. Other players might be aggressive too. You can also play by yourself and enjoy the NPC's interactions. Travel by sea or take a ride in a tank. Or if you prefer, use a combat airplane to explore the five active communities.

The magic of Unturned is that you can modify everything. You get the chance of creating maps, weapons, and anything you want. Upload your creations for other players to try it. Download other players' creations and enjoy creativity at its best. Plus, the developers consider the player's creations for official usage in the game.

Choose this game if you like...

Simple survival zombie shooters.
Moding. Unturned gives a chance of creating stuff for the game to those who have the skill.
Building and exploring as in Minecraft.

Fun factor score: 80/100

A dark room with a threatening aura. There’s a symbol on the wall that looks like a scorpion with the number seven.

14. Eldevin - 2014 (PC)

Eldevin is an award-winning MMORPG. More than 160 realms give shape to the great Eldevin Kingdom. Unique and charismatic characters and creatures are found in these vast realms. With over 200 talents, there’s much to be learned in Eldevin. Choose between 14 professions and play as long as you want. One of the greatest things about Eldevin is how your decisions affect the world around you. The lore and the little stories you find in this Kingdom are completely charming and will keep you interested for long enough. Merge yourself in this epic world where all kinds of adventures are awaiting!

Choose this game if you like...

Cute fantasy adventures.
Epic designs for bosses and enemies in general.
Quests with great stories.

Fun factor score: 70/100

One of the many grand bosses fights you’ll encounter in this world.

13. Nehrim: At Fate's Edge- 2010 (PC)

This game is a fantasy RPG self-driven adventure. Nehrim is a total conversion mod for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Meaning, although it’s a mod, it’s completely different from Oblivion. The story, races, quests, skills, and XP-based leveling system. The map was used to create a unique world. Explore the delightful lands of Nehrim with its hundreds of dungeons filled with enemies and bosses. Designed in a gothic style, Nehrim has some pretty locations that will attract you to explore. Discover one of the greatest mods ever made by the community. A rich story is what makes this game so interesting. Try it, maybe you'll like it better than Oblivion. My only recommendation is not to download it from Steam because it will crash a lot. Go to the official company's page and download the game directly.

Choose this game if you like...

Mod conversions. If you’re a nostalgia gamer, you’ll love this one.
Gothic, dark atmospheres. Most landscapes are like this.
Very interesting stories. This is where the game shines.

Fun factor score: 80/100

The color palette is on the warm side to give shape to a very dark and gloomy atmosphere. A common feeling while playing.

12. Blockade - 2014 (PC)

Blockade is a pixelated FPS in an editable cubic world. A mix between Minecraft and Fortnite. Change the world around you as you please while fighting against other players or enemies. With features like creating your base, weapons, character customization, clan battles, and competing with other players. Blockade is an unlimited game. A shooter like no other. There are other modes like survival; 4v4; and all vs all. Try them all and become the best.

Choose this game if you like...

Building. If you have a creative mind and you like cubic shapes, this world is for you.
Pixelated graphics.
Minecraft and Fortnite gameplay mechanics. In Blockade, you also have to build on the battlefield.

Fun factor score: 90/100

Players on the battlefield. One of them lays death on the floor while the other holds a kitty shield. Impressive.

11. Spiral Knights - 2011 (PC)

Spiral Knights is an adventure MMO with an isometric view. A cooperative game set in an ever-changing world. The player will embody a knight of the Spiral Order who has crash-landed on the planet Cradle. Help the knight and fellow companions to explore and survive in the alien world. Defeat creatures, solve puzzles, and discover the many treasures hiding in Cradle. The most interesting feature of Spiral Knights is how the world can be explored in real-time. This means the map will change as time passes and you can experience that while it's happening. Spiral Knights has a beautiful design for every single little thing. All the experience is just perfect!

Choose this game if you like...

Dungeons and living worlds.
Complex game mechanics and leveling up system.
Strategy and tactical combat.

Fun factor score: 100/100

Look at those cute little creatures! I bet you want to play already.

10. Pixel Worlds - 2017 (PC / Android / iOS)

Pixel Worlds is a multiplatform online MMO social sandbox. Create unique pixel art and set the path of your adventures. Customize your character as much as you like. Complete the many dungeons available and collect the loot. Build anything you want. Blocks, furniture, tools, items, weapons, and clothes. The game's main focus is the social activities you can do. Because the economy is run by the community. You can trade items or worlds with other players. The community also makes mini-games and free worlds where you can play and compete too!

Choose this game if you like...

Pixelated art design. This is the main key of the game.
Fantasy adventures.
2D platformers.

Fun factor score: 90/100

Each character is unique in this shot. We love that!

9. Robocraft - 2017 (PC / XBOX)

Robocraft is an online vehicular battle game. A full of action game with many interesting features. Start building your robot vehicle with over 250 cubes to choose from. Arm your robot with powerful weapons and test your creations. Sink into battle once your robot is ready. This game is set on different planets where you can fight.

Defeat other players in the arena and try the different modes for a new experience. You can also share your creations with other players online. Bring out the robotic architect in you in this great game!

Choose this game if you like...

Robotic, futuristic designs.
Transformers. The game is not exactly like Transformers but it’s a close approach when building and fighting with your robotic creations.
Frenzy action.

Fun factor score: 80/100

The game is also an FPS experience as we can see here. Quite catching.

8. Captain Bones: Prologue - 2021 (PC)

Captain Bones is a first-person survival game. You play as Captain Bones in a pirate-themed world. Here you'll travel the seas to find new islands. Collect materials to create useful tools to survive and travel. Captain Bones carries a curse, which adds difficulty to the experience. The goal of the game is to become an actual Captain of a ship with your troop. To achieve this you must make the right decisions. Be careful with the dangers of the high seas, and if you dive into the depths you can find many treasures and interesting areas. A great and fun experience awaits you in this vibrant world.

Choose this game if you like...

Pirates and sea-related environments.
Exploring the sea.
Crafting, farming, and learning skills to survive and fight.

Fun factor score: 70/100

Captain Bones in front of a raft. This is how you start. Later, you can build your ship.

7. Wurm - 2012 (PC)

This funny game is a sandbox MMORPG. With slow-paced gameplay and complex mechanics, Wurm promises to push the boundaries of an open-world game. The objective of the developers was to give ultimate freedom to the player. You can build and create anything from the resources available. Metal ores, wood, crops, and clay. Craft and trade your creations with other players. Learn over 130 skills, if you dare. In Wurm, the decisions you make affect the world around you in real-time. The goal is to find a kingdom and conquer other players' lands. Although Wurm is a dated game, it still has an active community. It's a game that requires a lot of time, patience, and understanding. It's highly recommendable to watch a few gameplays and use them as guides before beginning. Otherwise, you might find yourself lost.

Choose this game if you like…

Slow gameplay. Wurm is a game where if you want to grow you’ll have to spend several hours to do so.
Survival games.
High level of freedom to move around the world.

Fun factor score: 70/100

A beautiful snowy landscape with two medieval characters on top of a mountain.

6. Alpaca Stacka - 2021 (PC)

Alpaca Stacka is a beautiful 3D adventure platformer. You play as Paz the Alpaca. The goal is to help their animal friends. Explore the island, help the other little buddies, and collect Mama Hen's lost chickens.

This game is a peaceful experience with its pastel colors and cute character design. Perfect for a relaxing break.

Choose this game if you like...

Cute, colorful, squishy characters and general design.
Simple platformers.
Relaxing and calming experiences.

Fun factor score: 90/100

The design is extremely beautiful and satisfying. The color palette was a great choice.

5. The Expendabros - 2014 (PC)

A 2D action game described as a mashup between the movie The Expendables and the game Broforce. The game plot follows the movie script. We will fight against Conrad Stonebanks, a gun-runner. Fight in a frenetic battlefield and save your bros! The player can choose among seven characters to play with after saving them on the run: Bro Caesar, Bro Christmas, Broney Ross, Trent Browser, Bronar Jension, Broc, and Toll Broad. Each one with unique skills.

The game is located in the forests of Eastern Europe. Which gives the perfect vibe for a gory battle. Plus it has a multiplayer cooperative mode.

Choose this game if you like...

Gory frenetic action as in Metal Slug (an oldie).
Pixelated art designs.
The Expandables and Broforce. This game is a great tribute to both the movie and the game.

Fun factor score: 100/100

One of the scenarios where you’ll play. There are several enemies and obstacles that you must overcome to save those who need it.

4. Endless Sky - 2015 (PC)

An amazing 2D space trading and combat game. Endless Sky has many types of spaceships that you can also customize. Use it to explore, battle, and work. You can earn money in the game by carrying passengers or cargo; bounty hunting; capturing enemy spaceships; among others. Enjoy the story and dive into a civil war or just explore a rich galaxy with beautiful scenarios, hundreds of cosmic elements, and alien enemies.

The game comes with a Galaxy editor where you can add a new star system and planets. You can also create new weapons, spaceships, and even missions. The game promises to expand in the future. As contributors add new interesting content.

Choose this game if you like...

Retro spatial shooting games. Endless Sky is a modern version of them. Its essence resides in it.
Building space-related elements and ships.
Exploring the cosmos.

Fun factor score: 90/100

Just take a look at this epic battle near a cosmic object that looks like the Helix Nebula. It has the shape of an eye.

3. The Pirate: Caribbean Hunt - 2016 (PC / Android / iOS)

An authentic pirate adventure. In this third-person game, you’ll be the Captain of a Ship. Choose among 20 classes of ships and sail to the seas to experience a realistic approach to what it means to be the Captain. Complete the different quests; Knock down enemy ships; Pick up cargo; Learn the Captain skills; And visit a hundred islands and ports available. The Pirate Caribbean Hunt is a game that requires time to understand. It has many features that make it a complex game.

Choose this game if you like...

If you’re passionate about pirates you’ll love this one.
Complex sea battle mechanics. The tactics can take a while to learn.
Ships, sea traveling, and naval battles.

Fun factor score: 80/100

A stormy night in the sea. The ships are getting ready to battle under dangerous weather.

2. CHKN - 2016 (PC)

CHKN consists of creating creatures of all kinds. This open-world sandbox allows you to create unique creatures. You can create life and build anything you want block by block. Battle in the arena with your creations against other players or invite your friends. Explore this world, gather resources, craft, and survive. An entertaining and visually magnificent game to play.

Choose this game if you like...

Crafting and building to survive.
Creating and customizing your characters.
Bizarre visuals. The creatures can be exotic. Players have the chance to create anything they imagine.

Fun factor score: 90/100

Wait… what is that thing again?

1. Darwin Project - 2018 (PC / XBOX / PS4)

Darwin Project is a first-person online multiplayer battle royale. An intense game where 10 players will have to fight each other for survival. It takes place in the Northern Canadian Rockies. A dystopic post-apocalyptic world where the players will have to understand and learn the survival conditions. Gather resources to fabricate your clothes, traps, and tools.

The key features of this title are the possibility to spectate the game and host it. The show director or host will do exactly what its title says. Control the arena by casting powerful attacks like nuclear bombs and gravity storms. Use the power of your voice to make every show a blasting experience. As a viewer, you can take action in the game by voting for the target of the power activated by the host or Show Director; Place bets, and bid for powers reserved for the show director.

Choose this game if you like...

Extroverted activities involving speech and creativity. The best feature of the game is the chance of hosting a game. Something that no other game offers.
Dynamic and tactical gameplay. Since your goal is to survive, you should think carefully to make the right decisions.
Survival games. Darwin Project is a battle royale but the survival elements should be mastered to win.

Fun factor score: 100/100

The game visuals in the night with a bonfire warming the place.

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[Top 15] Best Free Indie Games

Alina Lazarte — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 02:41:34 +0000

15. Realm of the Mad God Exalt - 2012 (PC / PS4 / XBO)

Realm of the Mad God is an MMORPG bullet hell type of game. An extreme shooter following the theme of Space Invaders. In the style of 8 bits, Realm is a challenging experience. More than a dozen of classes to pick from and epic bosses to battle. Realm has a cooperative mode where you can share experiences with other people.

The game has a permanent death state. You die, you lose everything. Thus, you have to survive to make it through. Collect weapons, potions, gear, and rings. Are you good enough to reach the final level? You can play for hours or just a few minutes. Enjoy it your way!

Choose this game if you like...

Intense shooters. Enemies feel endless in the Realm of the mad god.
Simple graphics but hardcore gameplay.
Rogue-like bullet hell type of games. If you're good at keeping calm in overwhelming situations, this game is for you.

Fun factor score: 90/100

As you can see here the characters are divided between those who live and those who lie on the graveyard.

14. Brawlhalla - 2017 (PC / PS4 / PS5 / XBOX / Nintendo Switch / iOS / Android )

The perfect fighting game. Brawhlhalla is a 2D platform fight game. Epic battles with 8+ players gathered from around the world. Brawhlhalla will test your fighting and dodging skills on the platform. Those who fall, lose. Those who stand, win. This beautiful game has over 50 characters to choose and master. You can also pick a weapon and gadgets, each one with unique abilities. The game allows cross-play so you can play with friends on different devices.

Brawlhalla has many different playing modes and is completely free. There is no pay-to-win bait. A game that will keep you entertained for several hours.

Choose this game if you like...

Simple fighting games. There’s nothing too complex in fighting and kicking other players off the arena.
Cute characters with cartoonish designs.
Kung Fu Panda. At Brawlhlla, the characters from Kung Fu Panda are playable!

Fun factor score: 100/100

Look at these stunning scenes from the battlefield. Four players remain on the platform, and each one is going to do its best to be the winner.

13. Sono - 2020

A simple, fast, and relaxing experience. Sono is a 2D exploration game. A game to chill while you discover its three worlds. Surrounded by beautiful sounds, Sono is an abstract microcosm where everything you have to do is collect souls.

It needs little requirements, everybody can play! This game is perfect for taking a break at work and relaxing. Discover this amazing microworld and chill!

Choose this game if you like...

Small but beautiful experiences. That is what Sono is in simple words.
Short games. Sono is a very short game but very worth it.
Simple games where you don't have to do anything. Almost like playing Yuumi in League.

Fun factor score: 100/100

Take a look at this amazing hive design. Did you know that the hexagonal hive shape is commonly seen in nature’s microcosm?

12. DDraceNetwork - 2020

Known as the hardest 2D platform game. DDraceNetwork is a cooperative game where you have to climb through different maps using a grappling hook. Each map has a different difficulty level. You can also build your map in the editor. Thousands of maps have been already built by the community. It's impressive.

The weapons available have challenging skills. It's a game that requires time and a lot of coordination. DDraceNetwork is worth a try. Maybe it becomes your favorite game of the year.

Choose this game if you like...

Challenging platformers. This one will hit on the right spot if you're a fan of platformers!
Creating inside the game system. Building maps is one of the greatest things of DDrace Network.
Spending a lot of time in one game to master it. DDrace is one of those games that need time to make your brain get used to it.

Fun factor score: 90/100

This is one of the many maps available to play. Such a cute place in the sky.

11. Star Fetchers

A bloody adventure that follows the story of two thugs who are hunting the toughest gangster. This 2D game is an incredible journey where you'll have gory battles. Defeat your enemies with your sword while you explore this decadent world. The goal in Star Fetchers is to become the most famous gangster. Fight against other gangs, help vulnerable people, and discover the secrets of this great game. A bizarre story where cults, government, conspiracies, and a lot of violence are involved.

Choose this game if you like...

Gory games. In Star Fetchers there's a lot of blood everywhere, every time.
Gangsters and dark events. The story is focused on this.
2D simple battling games. Star fetchers are not hard at all. You can kill and dodge your enemies easily.

Fun factor score: 70/100

A small view of what the art of the game looks like. There’s no need to make it realistic for it to be good.

10. Soda Dungeon 2

Soda Dungeon is a 2D turn-based strategy game. The game consists of exploring dungeons where the "Dark Lord" hid all kinds of valuable loot. Defeat the enemy hordes by recruiting an army and sending them to fight! All of this while you're safe in your tavern. Improve your army and gear to fight the darkest monsters. Build a town and become a mighty and respected boss. Classified as one of the bests idler/clicker games, Soda Dungeon deserves recognition. A nice and chill experience with charming graphics. Play anytime, anywhere!

Choose this game if you like...

Turn-based games. You have to enjoy this genre to get into Soda Dungeon.
Dungeons and more dungeons! This is the main aspect of this game. Endless dungeons to explore.
Old nostalgia games. This title is the best representation of every idler in history.

Fun factor score: 90/100

A capture of Dimension 3. Look at how colorful everything is. But not happy colorful, it’s more like toxic colorful.

9. The Dawn - 2020

The Dawn is a first-person shooter in anime design. Follow the story of Maya and Max, a girl who can manipulate time and a hacker boy. Both trying to save humankind from the Artificial intelligence that has rebelled against humans. The AI is now dominating mankind. They are making experiments and exploiting humanity. Located in a decadent Korea where language and communication are no longer allowed.

Help Maya and Max reach the palace where the AI resides and save the human race. With Maya's unique skills, this game provides a few hours of intense fun. Or maybe a speedrun? You can try it!

Choose this game if you like...

Futuristic designs. This world is filled with technology. Although Maya is a mage, her abilities have that particular techno-design.
Post-apocalyptic worlds. The location of the game is going through this situation.
Short but challenging games. To complete The Dawn you'll need no more than an hour. If you're good enough.

Fun factor score: 100/100

Here we see Maya in the foreground and a thug in the background about to fight inside a weird trippy room. Epic.

8. Stay Out - 2019

Stay Out is an MMORPG first-person shooter. It offers the experience of urban exploration in an Alienation Zone. A place abandoned and forgotten. The world of Stay Out has its laws and principles. Dive into unknown areas to discover secret laboratories, alien life forms, anomalies, and artifacts that challenge our laws of nature. Join the "Stalkers" and become one of them. The Stalkers are a group of people who dedicate their lives to exploring dangerous places in search of valuable artifacts and knowledge. Help them find out what is going on in this mysterious world.

Choose this game if you like...

Urban exploration. The game is accurate to that experience. It will grant you the feeling of danger and fear of the unknown.
Alien concepts. In Stay Out cosmic horror is a constant.
Shooters with RPG and survival elements. Shooting a gun is just the way you survive, but the actual importance of Stay Out is the RPG survival element.

Fun factor score: 90/100

Just a group of guys around a bonfire, resting and warming their bodies.

7. Dark Deception - 2018

Dark Deception is a horror escape game with RPG elements. We're trapped in a labyrinth. Our goal is to escape the maze. You'll have to run and escape from the creepy creatures who are trying to hunt you down. The first chapter introduces the player to the story. Investigate what is going on in this hellish place while you find your way out.

The game is a decent scary experience similar to Five Nights at Freddy. With many features like a fast-paced arcade horror where enemies can be stunned. A progress system that helps you survive longer. Dark humor. Mazes filled with traps, hazards, and other dangers. This game is one of the best escape games I've played.

Choose this game if you like...

Escape the room games. You'll be in certain scenarios that resemble a house or a hotel. Everything you have to do is escape.
Adrenaline situations. The gameplay is intense and there are many things you have to pay attention to.
Runners. One of the main features of Dark Deception is that you're always running.

Fun factor score: 90/100

This hall is gold and red. Looks like the creepy monkey is important to the design. I see it similar to the monkey in Toy Story 3.

6. Animal Royale - 2021

Animal Royale is a 2D battle royale game with an isometric view. Over 60+ fierce animals will fight in different scenarios. From cute cats to cute sloths to collect and personalize. Collect them all and beat other players to become the alpha. Explore a paradisiac island with diverse biomes and mysteries to be discovered. Invite your friends and have fun with the cutest game.

The strategic style of Animal Royale makes it entertaining to play. Plus a lot of adorable and deathly furries to play with.

Choose this game if you like...

Furries. If you're a big fan you're going to love Animal Royale with all your heart.
2D battle royales. The gameplay mechanics are very simple but fun to play.
Surprises! Animal Royale will give you a big one. Just try it and you'll see.

Fun factor score: 100/100

Two small furries fighting each other in a toxic field. They are so cute and the environment is terrible!

5. Adventure Capitalist - 2015

This game is a capitalism simulator. But in the shape of click and earn (sometimes not even click). The player will start earning from zero and it can get as far as you want. The goal is to earn money or accumulate it. As simple as it sounds.

Adventure Capitalist plays itself while you're offline. It makes it easier to earn. It's the perfect game to take a little break or to play while waiting. Although the game says it's so easy even a socialist could do it, I wouldn't recommend it to them. But they would surely be entertained.

Choose this game if you like...

Capitalism and money. Lots of money,
Doing something simple while waiting for another game to load. The purpose of Adventure Capitalist is to keep you entertained short enough.
Click and earn games. You have to do little to nothing to play this one.

Fun factor score: 80/100

The main character is dressed in gold, this one does have a monocle. Unlike Mr. Monopoly.

4. Poppy Playtime - 2021

Poppy Playtime is a survival horror game set in an abandoned toy factory that you'll have to explore. The goal is to stay alive while investigating what happened in the place. Survive the creepy toys trying to hunt you down. Use your GrabPack to help yourself survive. The game is divided into several chapters but only Chapter One (this game) is for free.

The design of the toys is great. Poppy Playtime has fascinating graphics. Along with the mechanics of the GrabPack, the game offers everything a horror survival needs.

Choose this game if you like…

Screamers. Poppy Playtime uses this resource several times.
FNAF. The ambient and general design of Poppy Playtime is similar to FNAF.
Solving puzzles, investigating, and using your brain to understand each level.
Creepy toys.

Fun factor score: 100/100

“Make a friend” is how they welcome us into this spooky place. The rust gives quite the atmosphere.

3. Eternal Return - 2020

Eternal Return is a mix between MOBA, Battle Royale, and Survival genres. Choose one of the diverse characters available and face 18 players at Lumia Island. Survive the encounter with the best strategy and win. Very simple. But you can also explore and gather materials to make gear or food for your character. Many valuable artifacts will become more and more important as you advance in the game. You can play by yourself or with friends. You can even create tournaments in personalized games.

With anime visuals, Eternal Return is an innovative and engaging game. A challenging game where you'll have to invest time and effort if you want to become the best and master a character (maybe all of them).

Choose this game if you like...

MOBA's. Eternal Return is mostly focused on the MOBA gameplay mechanics.
Challenging and different experiences from the usual. The game is not exactly like LOL or Dota. It has unique features.
Anime designs.

Fun factor score: 90/100

As you can see there are a lot of elements you can use. The game has many features and the design is so soothing.

2. Sheepy: A Short Adventure

Sheepy is a short platformer in the style of pixel art. The game tells the story of Sheepy, an abandoned plushy who has been brought to life. Help him explore this forgotten world while listening to a beautiful soundtrack. The game is only a demo for now. Adding it to the wishlist is a wise decision. A very promising platformer with beautiful visuals and sound effects.

The mixture between a cute character and a post-apocalyptic world with surrealism and cryptic events around you is what makes this game so interesting.

Choose this game if you like...

Pixelated art. All the world inside Sheepy is in this style.
Dark stories but cute characters. This contrast makes the game quite catching.
Relaxing platformers. Everything inside Sheepy is a calming experience.

Fun factor score: 80/100

As you can see there are a lot of elements you can use. The game has many features and the design is so soothing.

1. Helltaker - 2020

"The game is damn short and not very smart, but at least it's free. Maybe you'll find it fun". This is how we're introduced in Helltaker. I think this is the most accurate description. Helltaker is a 2D puzzle with RPG elements. The player wakes up in hell and is surrounded by a harem of demons. A portal has been opened by the protagonist to fulfill his darkest desires. Help him reach his goal in this deathly place. Solve the different puzzles as efficiently as possible and don't get killed by succubus.

Helltaker is an adventure that lasts an hour or less. A very fun experience with great visual elements. The game is simple and requires little effort to play. It's worth a try!

Choose this game if you like...

Succubus. This is pretty much what makes the game good.
Dark humor. A lot of it can be found inside this hell.
Anime-like designs.
Solving puzzles. It's important that you like this because most of the game is about solving puzzles.

Fun factor score: 100/100

One of the many succubus with who you can interact and do… things.

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[Top 15] Best Indie Game Developers

AllenWritesStuff — Wed, 28 Jul 2021 02:52:02 +0000

The Indie game scene is rich with many developers with unique and interesting ideas, stories, and different approaches to gameplay that the triple-A titans would never try. Today, I will show you our top 15 indie game developers and some of their games that you should try.

Our Top 15 Indie Game Developers

Supergiant Games
Might & Delight
FuturLab
Landfall
Klei
Ghost Town Games
Thunder Lotus Games
Extremely OK Games Ltd.
Hitchcock Games
Jutsu Games
Curve Digital
Free Lives
10tons
Steel Wool Studios
The Behemoth

1. Supergiant Games

If you’ve played the smash hit Hades you’ll know these guys. Supergiant creates fun and challenging isometric action games with beautiful visuals. They all feature great soundtracks, with the music from their game Transistor being one of my personal favorites.

Top 3 Games:

Transistor
Hades
Pyre

2. Might & Delight

Might & Delight offers unique visual styles in their works as well as some uncommon concepts for games. Their Shelter series has you take on the role of a mama badger, lynx, and elephant in their respective games. You have to raise your babies and travel through sweeping landscapes.

Top 3 Games:

Shelter series (Shelter 1, 2, and 3)
Meadow
Tiny Echo

3. FuturLab

FuturLab is the developer of the acclaimed PC Builder Simulator, where you can live out your dreams of having enough money to build a decent gaming PC. But that’s not all, their newest simulator game Power Wash Simulator is their most thrilling and action-packed game yet! They also have a couple of top-down shooters and a game based on the TV show Peaky Blinders.

Top 3 Games:

Power Wash Simulator
PC Builder Simulator
Peaky Blinders: Mastermind

4. Klei

Best known for games like Don’t Starve Together, Klei’s strengths are engaging and stylized 2D games. However, you can check out their venture into 3D with Hot Lava, a platformer that you can play with your friends where the floor is, quite literally, lava.

Top 3 Games:

Don’t Starve Together
Crypt of The Necrodancer
Mark of the Ninja

5. Ghost Town Games

Overcooked! & Overcooked! 2 are some of the best party games out there, and it’s evident that Ghost Town put a lot of care into them. I would recommend these chaotically fun games for everyone. Recently the devs remastered both games and combined them in Overcooked!: All You Can Eat. While not a new game entirely, this revamped mix of the two games has new levels with 4k graphics and runs in a butter-smooth 60 FPS. But I would also recommend following Ghost Town’s future developments.

Top 3 Games:

Overcooked!
Overcooked! 2
Overcooked!: All You Can Eat

6. Thunder Lotus Games

Games from Thunder Lotus are engaging and feature excellent hand-drawn style animations. Jotun: Valhalla Edition puts these aspects on full display while also giving you some good action and a story based on Norse mythology. If you’re looking for some relaxation, check out their game Spiritfarer.

Top 3 Games:

Spiritfarer
Jotun: Valhalla Edition
Sundered: Eldritch Edition

7. Extremely OK Games Ltd.

Extremely OK Games are not ok but in fact, quite good. Their most famous game is the difficult precision platformer Celeste. Each of their titles is created in a 2D pixelated style and features some great music that lends itself well to the gameplay.

Top 3 Games:

Celeste
Towerfall
Earthblade (Coming Soon)

8. Hitchcock Games

Hitchcock Games has made a good name for itself in the indie horror genre due to its hit Emily Wants to Play and the game’s sequel and prequel. Hitchcock’s games are great as they’re relatively cheap and play up the thrills and chills thanks to their interesting gameplay.

Top 3 Games:

Emily Wants to Play
Emily Wants to Play 2
Pacify

9. Jutsu Games

Jutsu is known for their unique style of simulator games, their claim to relevancy came from their title 911 Operator. Their Operator sims are immersive and engaging. But if you aren’t in a mood for strategy you can play their “GTA, but medieval” game called Rustler. Steal them horse-drawn carriages boy!

Top 3 Games:

911 Operator
112 Operator
Rustler

10. Scott Cawthon (Scottgames)

Scott Cawthon’s Five Night’s at Freddy’s series has made quite the impact on the indie gaming scene with the convoluted story and borderline stressful gameplay from each entry. There’s plenty to choose from but I’ll list some of the fan favorites in the series. I recommend heading to youtube to get the lore explained to you, it’ll save you the headache of trying to figure things out yourself.

Top 3 Games:

Five Nights at Freddy’s
Five Nights at Freddy’s 2
Ultimate Custom Night

11. Free Lives

Free Lives’ games are known for their over-the-top gameplay and overall fun weirdness. Like really weird, but really fun. I don’t even know what else to say. Look up their games and sink into their pool of craziness.

Top 3 Games:

Broforce
Gorn
Cricket Through the Ages

12. 10tons

The biggest strengths of 10tons are their isometric action games. They’ve got a handful of great titles to choose from, so don’t overlook these smaller devs.

Top 3 Games:

Dysmantle
Skeletal Avenger
Crimsonland

13. Steel Wool Studios

In recent years, Steel Wool has stepped into the limelight thanks to their collaboration with Scott Cawthon, bringing his Five Nights at Freddy’s series into virtual reality. This VR games developer puts a lot into creating engaging experiences to get over the common hurdles of VR games.

Top 3 Games:

Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted
Mars Odyssey
Quar: Battle for Gate 18

14. Landfall

Landfall boasts a roster of hilarious and fun games, from their famous Totally Accurate Battle Simulator (or TABS for short), to truck jumping (yes, truck jumping) game Clustertruck. Their ease of play and wacky premise makes for hours of fun. And if they start to get boring, they also have level editors for some of their games (TABS, Clustertruck, and Stick Fight) where you can play other people’s custom levels.

Top 3 Games:

Totally Accurate Battle Simulator
Clustertruck
Stick Fight: The Game

15. The Behemoth

Behemoth is a fitting name for this developer, as they have put out smash hits like Battleblock Theater and Castle Crashers. These beat’em ups are a favorite among co-op game fans, thanks to their great humor, charming art style, and their responsive and fun combat.

Top 3 Games:

Castle Crashers
Battleblock Theater
Pit People

Liked our list? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

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[Top 15] Best Indie Games for PC

AwestruckSquid — Fri, 16 Oct 2020 01:21:57 +0000

What's your favorite indie game?

Indie games are the hidden gems of the video game world. They are made by smaller companies or individuals, without financial or technical support that is usually available to larger companies. Still, these developers often make memorable games that leave a lasting impact on millions of gamers and rival the success of the big companies.

Here I will list my top 15 indie games for PC. The following games left an impact on myself as a gamer, and have a huge following of their own. If you haven’t played these games, you are in for an experience!

15. Tabletop Simulator (PC)

Tabletop Simulator Gameplay

Have you ever wished you could play a board game with friends, but your friends are hundreds of miles away? I have, after moving away from my hometown. This is where Tabletop Simulator comes to the rescue. With Tabletop Simulator, you can create your own board game or download one of the thousands of community-made mods on Steam and play with anyone, anywhere. It is also VR compatible, which makes it way cooler.

Finally, you can play Cards Against Humanity, Dungeons and Dragons, or import your own picture and make a jigsaw puzzle to play with the people you care about. Create your own elaborate RPG dungeons, or just relax with a simple classic game like Dominoes or Chess...whatever you’re in the mood for.

This game is only number 15 on my list because it isn’t a game that has a story or characters, but it is still meaningful to staying close to your friends especially in the times we are living in. Break away from the stress of 2020 and spend some quality time just having fun with your friends.

Game night is saved, no matter how far apart you are!

Game Night: Dungeons and...Chess?

14. Baba is You (PC/Nintendo Switch)

Baba is You Gameplay

In Baba is You, you primarily control Baba, an adorable sheep. Baba is You is a puzzle game, where you must follow the rules present as blocks on the screen. The interesting thing is you can move these blocks, which in turn, change the rules!

Changing the rules leads to interesting interactions, and are necessary to finish the puzzle and advance to the next level. I found myself laughing triumphantly, smiling with delight, and growing frustrated as I tried to figure out how to complete each level. Sometimes, the answer was so obvious, and I easily missed it!

This game is only 14 on my list because of personal preference. I am not a big fan of puzzle games, however, Baba is You was so cute and clever, I had to give it a go. If you enjoy puzzles, this lighthearted game is just right for you!

Help Baba change the rules and win the level!

13. Into the Breach (PC/Nintendo Switch)

Into the Breach Gameplay

Into the Breach is a turn-based strategy RPG. You control powerful mechs from the future to defeat an alien threat. Each attempt to save the world presents a new randomly generated challenge!

As a big fan of Final Fantasy Tactics and Fire Emblem, I was really excited to play this game. Although I am not usually fond of anything mecha, I was interested in the turn-based strategy aspect of the game. This game is certainly challenging, which is why it is number 13. Often, you are torn between defending the city buildings, keeping your mecha pilots alive, and defeating the alien threats. Sometimes it’s impossible to do all three and you are forced to either start over or take a partial victory. If you win, you are rewarded with a randomly selected set of upgrades you can buy with resources you collected. If one of your pilots happens to die, they are gone forever and you will have to just deal with a replacement AI that will not gain experience or level up.

This game does have high replay value, due to each level being random and will never be the same each playthrough. If you are craving a good puzzle and enjoy strategy, you will want to give Into the Breach a go...again and again!

We are not alone: Defeat the alien threats and save the world!

12. Enter the Gungeon (PC/Nintendo Switch/PS4)

Enter the Gungeon Gameplay

Do you like guns? Great. Enter the Gungeon is a bullet hell dungeon crawler following an odd band of misfits seeking to shoot, loot, doge-roll and table flip their way to a personal pardon by reaching the legendary Gungeon’s ultimate treasure: a gun that can kill the past.

You get to choose your “gungeoneer” which is who you will play as. Each character has special abilities, items, different stats and starting weapons. My favorite is the Hunter, mostly because she has a little corgi buddy that will bark at mimics and may dig up items! Who wouldn’t love having a little doggy friend in the cold, dark Gungeon?

I normally don’t play shooter games, they are out of my realm of interests. However, after seeing Enter the Gungeon, it looked fun and I had to give it a try...and I’m really glad I did. Everything is a gun pun (hehe, gun pun…). Each floor of the Gungeon is made up of a random configuration of handcrafted rooms, making every playthrough a little different. The game also rewards you with secret characters, which I’m sure any die-hard fan will already know about.

This game’s fun and variety will keep you coming back for more, even if you’re like me and not interested in shooting games. It also has a co-op mode, so you don’t have to play alone.

Bullet hell: Find awesome guns and blow stuff up.

11. Limbo (PC/Xbox 360/PS4/PS3/XBOne/PSVita/Switch/Mobile)

Limbo Gameplay

Uncertain of his sister’s fate, a boy enters Limbo. This is the single detail provided about the game before you play. Limbo is a puzzle platformer game, with lots of horror elements that will leave you cringing as you struggle to overcome the puzzles.This is a 2-D game that is completely in black and white.

Limbo stars a little boy, waking up in a barren forest. The game gives you no indication of who you are, how you got there, or where you’re going. In this forest, as you advance, you come across puzzles, and if you aren’t careful, you will die (a lot) in horrifying ways. For example, being decapitated by a bear trap!

A lot of trial and error goes into solving the puzzles, the developers describe it as “trial and death” to figure out each obstacle. If you make a wrong choice or don’t pay attention, you get to watch your player die in shockingly gruesome ways, almost instantly. Thankfully, this is not a roguelike game, and you get to start over before the obstacle that killed you rather than start from the beginning of the game.

The game advancement is very interesting, in the first half, you encounter bizarre monsters and other children who try to attack you, however, in the second half, there are no other life forms to be seen, and the puzzles get harder to overcome. (It’s lonely in here!)

The horror element may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and I will admit I don’t usually like the horror genre. What drew me to Limbo is the mystery surrounding the game’s story, and the limit to information given about it. This is a game you should play yourself so you get to experience all the mystery as you unravel the story.

Arachnophobia: Oh great, I get to run from a giant spider.

10. Crypt of the Necrodancer (PC/Nintendo Switch/PS4/PSVita)

Crypt of the Necrodancer Gameplay

Crypt of the Necrodancer is an award-winning roguelike rhythm game. Move to the music and deliver beatdowns with the solid beats! You can groove to the amazing Danny Baranowsky soundtrack, or select songs from your own MP3 collection.

In the game, you control a girl named Cadence, the daughter of a famous treasure hunter who has gone missing. In her search, she falls into a crypt controlled by the Necrodancer, who steals Cadence’s heart and makes her challenge his minions to retrieve it.

This is a rhythm game, which has you dancing to one side of the dungeon floor to the other as you tango with enemies, avoiding their movements while attacking until one of you dies. You are attacking to the beat, parrying to the beat, collecting items and gold to the beat...this is not just following button prompts like most normal rhythm games. The really fun thing about this game is you can play with a keyboard...or a dance pad if you wanted. I have not tried using a dance pad, but I bet it would be awesome and burn some calories.

There are also a ton of ways to play this game. Different characters, a practice mode, new game plus mode, challenge mode, local co-op, and a level editor to build your own levels. This game offers you more than enough options to bulk up replayability and keep you coming back to jam again.

Dance or Die: Conga line of zombies, anyone?

9. Rakuen (PC)

Rakuen Gameplay

Rakuen is an adorable game. A hospitalized boy comes to terms with his own story as he travels with his mom to a gorgeous fantasy world, ultimately helping his fellow patients find closure by walking a mile in their shoes.

Warning: This game will make a grown man cry. I am obviously not a man, but I’ve seen men freely admit they have cried over this game. Rakuen is just an emotional masterpiece. It has a beautiful, heartwarming story, amazing music, and moments that pull at your heartstrings.

In Rakuen, a young boy and his mother travel to a fantasy world, which is linked to the real world. In order to have the forest guardian grant the boy one wish, he must first help five souls, which correspond to five other patients in the very same hospital. To do this, the boy must interact with the physical bodies of these patients as well as their fantasy characters in the other world. Uncovering their backstories and helping them find closure is how you advance through the game. You can grow attached to some of these characters after spending so much time getting to know them and their stories. That was the best part of the game for me, I love character development!

The gameplay features multiple fetch quests, as you have to find certain specific items to do specific things in order to advance. You will have to solve puzzles or crack the code on a lock to open a door. The game certainly is challenging at times, but thankfully, Steam offers a walkthrough if you ever get stuck!

Despite a few lapses in logic, such as why only the boy and his mom can go to the fantasy world, this is a fun, imaginative game that will make you laugh and cry. The beautiful music and vivid graphics of the fantasy world will draw you in.

Fantasy vs. Reality: The player crosses a bridge, guided by his mom.

8. A Hat in Time (PC/Nintendo Switch/PS4)

A Hat in Time Gameplay

A Hat in Time is an adorable 3D platformer featuring a little girl who stitches hats for wicked powers. You freely explore bright and beautiful worlds to recover Time Pieces to travel to new heights! This game may remind you of the Nintendo 64 glory days, reminiscent of classics like Super Mario 64 and Banjo-Kazooie.

In a Hat in Time, you play as a girl called Hat Kid. She is trying to return to her home world via spaceship, but while travelling over a planet, a member of the planet’s mafia comes to collect a toll for the Mafia Town Government. When Hat Kid refuses to pay, the Mafia man busts the door open, causing Hat Kid and all of her Time Pieces (magical hourglasses that power her ship) to fall to the planet below. The game is based around trying to recover these Time Pieces so Hat Kid can go home.

The levels are fun and imaginative, with their own treasures to collect and different obstacles to overcome. Each new level may feel like you’re playing an entirely different game, and that keeps it interesting from start to finish.

In this game, you must collect yarn to stitch new hats that grant Hat Kid special powers. Hat Kid can also use the bubbles she collects as currency to buy badges that grant her special abilities. This gives you a reason to revisit past levels, as certain hats and abilities will allow you to access areas that were previously inaccessible to fully complete them. I am somewhat of a completionist, so going back to complete a level is a must for me!

This is a silly and charming game you will enjoy if 3D platformers are your thing. I grew up with the classics such as Mario and Banjo, so I enjoyed A Hat in Time. If you give it a try, you won’t be disappointed!

New Heights: Hat Kid searches for the missing Time Pieces.

7. Terraria (PC)

Terraria Gameplay

Dig, fight, explore, build. Nothing is impossible in this action-packed adventure game! If you are familiar with Minecraft, then Terraria will look similar to you. The game begins with a create a character feature, and a create a world feature. In each new game you are given three basic tools, the sword, pickaxe and axe. You must use these tools to gain resources and protect yourself from enemies as you explore the world.

At its core, in Terraria, you have to manipulate your environment to get around. You may have to dig through a wall, or build a platform to get across gaps. You do have goals in the game, the first one being to build a house. Of course, you have to go around and gather wood and resources necessary to accomplish this. The house is for protection, because at night, similar to Minecraft, tough enemies come out.

A cool thing about Terraria is, the more houses you build, the more NPCs and shop vendors will move into your little settlement, making it into a real town!

You may ask, what is the point of Terraria? Well, it's for treasure hunting...and building. You go explore, find cool stuff, and either get killed, kill yourself, or teleport home and put all the cool stuff you got in your settlement or use it to craft items...then do it all over again! It’s an open-ended sandbox adventure!

Terraria doesn’t sound like much, but once you play you will be sucked in to accomplishing your goals to survive and building the best settlement ever. There are endless areas of the world to explore and hidden secrets to find. Adventure awaits!

Defend the Homestead: Fight Cthulhu's eye!

6. Papers, Please (PC/PSVita)

Papers, Please Gameplay

Congratulations. The October labor lottery is complete, and your name was chosen. For immediate placement, report to the Ministry of Admission at Grestin Border Checkpoint. An apartment will be provided to you and your family in East Grestin. Expect a Class-8 dwelling.

Iin Papers, Please, you work as a border inspector at the checkpoint of the fictional communist country of Arstotzka. It is up to you to decide who you let into the country, and who you keep out or detain. Obviously, you will check any documents they have to verify their reason and identity for wishing to gain access into the country including passports, work visas, and the like. You may end up violating a few of their rights as you strip search them if they appear particularly suspicious! That’s the core of the game, you are a paper pusher working at a desk! All in a day’s work, right?

“What’s to love then?”, you might ask. The game just feels good. It has a sense of reward and punishment that makes you want to win. You may find yourself trying time and time again just to survive. As the game goes on, the nation’s rules, regulations and policies change. You have to keep the paperwork on your desk organized as more and more documents are added in addition to pushing immigrants through. You still have to be careful though, if you let through the wrong person, you may just change the course of history.

Your decisions in the game carry a lot of weight as you catch glimpses of the people’s lives, and you may be responsible for breaking up families of war refugees or allowing terrorists and spies into the country! You are only allowed two mistakes before your supervisor begins docking your pay.

So what’s the big deal with that? Well, you’re a family man. You have a family to care for and provide food, medicine and heat in your shabby little “free” apartment. Getting your pay docked is certainly not something you want, as caring for all your family’s needs is pretty costly. If you don’t bring home enough bacon, your family may have to sleep in the cold or just deal with being hungry or sick for another day. Naturally, if not fed or given medicine, your family members will die.

As the game goes on, your decisions, mistakes, and who you let through and how fast you push the paperwork determines which ending you get. There are 20 in all, giving you reasons to come back and play again to see what the outcome will be.

This game is number 6 on my list due to its uniqueness, and historical value. I’m a sucker for history, and this game fascinates me to no end. It is not like the light-hearted, cutesy games listed elsewhere on this countdown, but it has a certain charm and intriguing factor. I have not yet uncovered all the endings, but I keep coming back for more to see what the outcome will be.

Glory to Arstotzka: Trust no one.

5. Slime Rancher (PC/PS4/XBOne)

In Slime Rancher, you play as Beatrix LaBeau, a young rancher who sets out for a life a thousand light-years away from Earth on the “Far, Far Range”, where she has chosen to take up the difficult and unusual job of wranging slimes.

After getting all depressed reading about Papers, Please, this game will give you back that cutesy, lighthearted feeling you should be familiar with in this countdown. As a fan of Harvest Moon, I just had to give Slime Rancher a go. This game is pretty much what it sounds like, you explore the Far, Far range, collecting the adorable slime creatures, which you raise on your farm. If you feed and properly care for them, they reward you with plorts (their poop) which can be traded to get rewards and upgrades to your gear.

How do you collect these slimes? Well, Beatrix has a special gun and backpack she uses to vacuum the little guys up and packs them all into the backpack. She then carries them back home, where you can reverse the suction to pop them back out.

Of course, you have to purchase pens to keep them in to prevent escape. You also have to feed them or you may find they have escaped and are feasting on your crops! The game requires you to get creative, as you may need to discover different kinds of pens to contain different species of slime. For example, flying slimes need a roof or they will easily fly away! In addition to the right pen, each slime has a distinct diet. Some slimes are carnivores and want to eat chickens, called hen-hens. Others like veggies or fruit.

As you progress, Beatrix will discover new, rarer slimes the further she travels into the wilderness. Some slimes are friendly and wouldn’t hurt a fly...and some will try to kill you. Hybrid slimes can also be created by feeding the plorts of one slime to a different species. I love trying this to find all the wacky combinations I can make!

In Slime Rancher, there is a lot to do. Exploring the alien planet, collecting slimes, building a ranch, feeding slimes and collecting plorts, buying upgrades, trading items...all in a day’s work in the Far, Far, Range. There’s always something to discover and a puzzle to figure out using the help of these adorable, squishy slimes. Slime Rancher is number 5 due to it’s interesting and quirky concept.

Tending Slimes: These Boom slimes have an “explosive” temper!

4. Untitled Goose Game (PC/Nintendo Switch/PS4/XBOne)

Untitled Goose Game Gameplay

It’s a lovely morning in the village, and you are a horrible goose. This game showcases what people like least about this avian creature. They are dreadful, evil birds who exist to terrorize the human race. This is exactly what you get in Untitled Goose Game.

You take on the role of a regular goose, who sets out to wreak havoc on the unsuspecting villagers just trying to live their lives in peace. You can steal from them, mess with their stuff, and annoy them to no end as you try to complete your objectives, by way of a “To-Do” list. They won’t make it easy, as they naturally will try to get their stuff back and scare you away.

Untitled Goose Game is silly and charming. After you complete the initial goals, the game offers you more stuff to do to challenge yourself. I loved this game the moment I started it up, (mostly just playing it for the meme) and even though it can get infuriatingly difficult (I’m looking at you, outdoor shopkeeper lady) you are driven to complete your objectives to see what happens next. From locking a small boy in a phone booth to stowing away in a produce box to gain access to a pub, Untitled Goose Game will have you laughing and enjoying spending a day in the life of a goose! Honk, honk…

Double Trouble: With co-op multiplayer, two geese can terrorize the gardener!

3. Hollow Knight (PC/Nintendo Switch/PS4/XBOne)

Hollow Knight Gameplay

Forge your own path in Hollow Knight, an epic action adventure through a vast ruined kingdom of insects and heroes. Explore twisting caverns, battle tainted creatures, and befriend bizarre bugs in a classic, hand-drawn 2D style.

In Hollow Knight, you play as a nameless knight, travelling through the Hollownest, a kingdom inhabited by various types of insects. To advance, you will battle other insects who are overtaken by “The Infection”, fight bosses, and unlock new abilities to progress, all while exploring the mysteries of the kingdom.

This game has a lot of charming little buggy friends you meet and get to know, talking to everyone you meet offers an explanation about the history of the kingdom and the origin of “The Infection” itself. This game sounds upbeat on the surface, however, if the art style is any indication, the game is somber and gets rather dark the deeper you get into the story.

This game is number 3 on my list, because of how great it is. Several people have never heard of it, but it has been called “the best metroidvania you have never heard of”, and they aren’t lying. The story draws you in and you form emotional connections with these bugs as you help your knight solve the mysteries of Hollownest.

Showdown: Hollow Knight fights a boss.

2. Undertale (PC/Nintendo Switch/PS4/PSVita)

Undertale Gameplay

Undertale is the RPG where nobody has to die...unless you want them to. Okay, who hasn’t heard of Undertale by now? This was an amazing indie game that gripped me from the start.

In Undertale, you play as a child, who becomes the first human to fall into the Underground, a world full of monsters. Humans from the world above and monsters from the world below have been at war, and the Underground was sealed off, having a single entry point from the world above.

You will meet many monsters on your journey to get back to the surface, and some will engage you in a fight. You can also opt to pacify or subdue the monsters, in order to spare their lives instead of killing them. Your choices affect the game, the dialogue, characters, and outcome of the story.

The story itself is silly, the characters are fun and quirky, with a few serious or sad moments thrown in. This game held my interest all the way through as I battled with choices and what was the “right” or “humane” thing to do. This game will really put your morals to the test! The soundtrack of this game is amazing, I found myself humming along to the iconic songs.

I’m sure I don’t have to go into so much detail here, everyone and their mother knows about the amazing masterpiece that is Undertale. If you don’t, you have had to have been living under a rock! If you haven’t tried it yet, don’t let the fanbase scare you away, play it now!

You try to cheer up Napstablook.

1.Stardew Valley (PC/Nintendo Switch/PS4/XBOne/PSVita/Mobile)

Stardew Valley Gameplay

You’ve inherited your grandfather’s old farm plot in Stardew Valley. Armed with some hand-me-down tools and mere few coins, you set out to begin your new life. Can you learn to live off the land and turn these overgrown fields into a thriving home? It’s all up to you! Starting out, you get to create your character any way you would like and choose a farm plot to call home.

Stardew Valley is often called the “only spiritual successor to Harvest Moon” and it plays a lot like Harvest Moon, but dare I say, it’s better. Yes, it’s the same old song and dance: clear the fields, raise livestock, grow crops, mine, fish and befriend the villagers...even fall in love and start a family. However, there are many more intricate details planted in Stardew Valley that take the idea of Harvest Moon and grow it. (Plant puns, haha).

Stardew Valley does have a story to uncover, but the game is what the player makes of it. You can choose to restore the town to the way it used to be (before corporate giant Joja Mart took over) or join forces with the Joja Corporation. There are also an impressive 12 bachelors or bachelorettes to choose from, and yes, you can marry the same or opposite gender of your choice.

The cooking and crafting options are also impressive. You can create objects to earn more coins and make farm life easier that just aren’t present in Harvest Moon, like a scarecrow or sprinkler; and cook foods to restore your stamina or even boost your skills on those long mining journeys through the game’s huge caves.

There are so many secrets to uncover and backstories to learn about your fellow neighbors. Not all is as light-hearted and idyllic as it seems, some characters struggle with real, grown-up problems and dark pasts that Harvest Moon would never dare to venture. I feel like this game is a grown-up Harvest Moon, and if you know me, you know how much I love a good farming simulator with the freedom to choose a story and build a life of your choosing. If you have not yet tried Stardew Valley, what are you waiting for?

Farming Fantasy: The player keeps a watchful eye over his birds and bunnies.

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Top 10 New Indie Games 2019

REBECCASTERNBERG — Thu, 27 Jun 2019 13:30:05 +0000

10. Void Bastards

Void Bastards Gameplay

Lead a ragtag group of prisoners through the dangers of the Saragasso Nebula. Decide what to do at every turn. Run, shoot, and use the environment to your advantage. You’ll have to keep your prisoners alive and well, but if you don’t manage to do that, a dead prisoner will be replaced by a live one, raring to go! This ain’t your ordinary point and shoot.

What Makes This Game Fun

Craft fun things with the items you find, including a cute robot kitty to distract the enemy.
Different prisoners have different pros, cons, and quirks..
You can trap an enemy in an airlock and blast it into space.

Shoot some dudes with some neato gizmos.

Keep an eye on the layout of the ship you’re on, and don’t forget to have an exit strategy for when things go south.

9. Sable

Sable gameplay

Explore a desert planet with Sable, a young one going through a rite of passage. As they learn about the world, they learn about themselves, too. Explore the open world, help nomadic people and learn their stories. Explore ancient monuments and try to piece together the history of the planet around you.

What Makes This Game Fun

Unique rendering style.
Open world oozing with mystery...and sand.
You have a hoverbike!

Look how cool! Zoom through the desert on a hoverbike with a cape, and a mask made from an animal skull. This is some Mad Max level stuff!

Solve mysteries like what left this skeleton and dear lord, are there any of them still alive?!

8. Sea of Solitude

Sea of Solitude Gameplay

Explore a flooded city on the sea with Kay, a young woman working through her own loneliness. In this metaphorical world, the water levels will rise and fall, allowing you to reach new areas. Solve puzzles, interact with the red-eyed monsters, and figure out why Kay has turned into one of these monsters, herself.

What Makes This Game Fun

Absolutely gorgeous graphics!
Meaningful story exploring mental health and the effects of loneliness.
The monsters all have a story, they aren’t just enemies.

A flooded city, do you dare to find out what is below the surface?

Face yourself in giant creepy bird thing form.

7. Indivisible

Indivisible gameplay

A side scrolling RPG with a 3d rendered world and beautiful hand-drawn sprites. Indivisible follows Ajna, a spirited tomboy who’s home has been attacked. She wakes to the mysterious power to absorb creatures called incarnates into her body and summon them during battle. Join her as she travels the world in order to save everything she ever knew.

What Makes This Game Fun

Gorgeous graphics with slick hand drawn animation
Some banging tunes from the composer of Secret of Mana
A central hub inside Ajna’s mind that largely gets rid of the need to backtrack

Totally overpower a tiny dragon creature!

Help people out and let them become your power!

6. My friend Pedro

My Friend Pedro Gameplay

Kill a bunch of guys for the sake of a sentient banana. That’s what kind of game this is. It is described as a gun ballet, and has fast paced action, or you can slow it down with a physics puzzle or two. There are as many ways to kill as your imagination allows!

What Makes This Game Fun

Fantastic control over your body and guns makes for a great feeling game.
If things are two fast, you can turn on bullet time for a better shot
There’s a talking banana! What’s not to love!

Bloodshed! Mayhem! Banana!

Pew pew with the plantain!

5. Ooblets

Ooblets Gameplay

An adorable game that’s like Harvest Moon, Pokemon, and Animal Crossing mushed up into a cute little ball. You take care of a run down farm and raise these little critters called ooblets and train them to battle. Except in this game, instead of a battle battle, you face off in a dance battle! Explore the world and make friends!

What Makes This Game Fun

Cute cartooney style
Combination of the farming and battling styles of game.
It just makes you feel all warm and fuzzy.

Cute friendship with lil critters!

The different species of ooblets so far!

4. Untitled Goose Game

Untitled Goose Game gameplay

You are a horrible little goose and you’re out to give random citizens a bad time. It’s a stealth/puzzle game with a to do list, though I’m sure you can deviate from the list and just mess with people however you want. And why are you doing this? Because you can.

What Makes This Game Fun

A button just for honking!
Live your fantasies of being a jerk with no repercussions!
A game with a sense of humor

Annoy an innocent man by stealing his radio!

Steal a sandwich!

3. Spelunky 2

Spelunky 2 gameplay

A cute platformer roguelike where you can play one of several characters in one of several environments. Pick up all sorts of items to help you explore and defeat enemies. It’s like the first Spelunky, but with even more stuff!

What Makes This Game Fun

Multiplayer!
Explore caves, how long can you survive?
A randomly generated experience for endless play.

Multiplayer with a bunch of cute, unique characters.

You can even spelunk on the moon! And what a good puppy that isn’t asphyxiating for some reason!

2. Psychonauts 2

Psychonauts 2 gameplay

We rejoin Razputin after he has become a full fledged member of the Psychonauts, but now the team is in trouble. Something has beenoff about their leader ever since he was kidnapped, and someone has betrayed the Psychonauts.. And there are bad guys trying to resurrect the big baddie from before!

What Makes This Game Fun

Fun characters
Continuation of the story
Character development

Fight off enemies with your amazing psychic powers.

Float your way through a world of...teeth?

1. Afterparty

Afterparty gameplay

Go on one hell of a bender, literally. You play as Milo and Lola, best friends who recently died, and you are in the outer reaches of Hell. Play bar games, go on quests, have conversations that affect the game, and ultimately try to drink Satan under the table. If you manage to do it… he’ll send you back to Earth.

What Makes This Game Fun

You can flirt with Satan.
Uncover the sordid past of these two friends.
All the fun of going out to bars without ever leaving your home!

Only the finest of drinks for your stay in hell, with the most delightful names.

Who knew Hell looked like a party town? Or...downtown...party...place? Unsure what it would be called, but not what you usually think of as Hell, creative!

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11 Most Popular Indie Games of 2015

LisaK26 — Thu, 18 Feb 2016 12:04:45 +0000

Looking for something a little different from big publisher games?

Tired of cutscenes over content? PC is the place to go for unique and interesting games outside of the box of the mainstream. Here are a few of the most popular ones from the last year we think you should check out.

11. Life is Strange

Life is strange HD Walkthrough no commentary part 2 "Flash drive hunt"

Life is Strange is currently a 5 part episodic journey that took the indie world by storm. You play as Maxine Caulfield who discovers she has the power to go back in time. This leads to a series of timelines by her own creation that allows you as the player to control the narrative of the story.

The game has been praised for its time travel style gameplay and how it affects the overall plot and character arcs. Each choice you make has a consequence and each timeline you encounter is just as deep and meaningful to the character development as the alternative. You’ll spend endless hours replaying the game for the different scenarios it can afford you in this instant indie classic.

Time travel requires grand hand gestures.

10. Binding of Isaac: Rebirth

Binding of Isaac: Rebirth Run 1 – No Commentary 60 FPS PC Gameplay

Binding of Isaac: Rebirth is a remake of a popular 2D dungeon crawler by the same name. It is loosely based on the biblical tale and follows Isaac as he is imprisoned by his fanatically religious mother. Once Isaac learns his mother is trying to kill him, he must flee to survive her canonical Old Testament wrath.

The original game received rave reviews but was too limiting on its original Adobe Flash software. The developers then spent the next few years rebuilding the game from the ground up, creating a fresh updated game that still remained true to the original. Since then, downloadable content has been added to the game throughout 2015 to keep people playing and putting it as one of the top-sellers for indie games for the year.

Battle of the brains. Literally.

9. SOMA

SOMA Gameplay Part 2 No Commentary

SOMA comes from the incredibly popular creators of the Amnesia series and like its predecessors, it’s just as creepy and suspenseful with horror as you’d expect. The protagonist of the game, Simon, awakes to find that much of earth has been killed off by a terrible disaster and he must survive the underwater facility he finds himself in. The gameplay doesn’t deviate too much clue-finding and discovery, but that only allows you to focus on the story.

SOMA has been particularly praised for its intriguing plot and superb voice acting. Although the horror element might not be as shocking as what players experienced in the Amnesia games, there is plenty of fright to go around. Overall it is a strong game received well by fans and critics alike.

You want SOMA this? Get it? Get it?

8. Undertale

Undertale – No Mercy[Long Play][No Commentary]

Undertale took the indie world by storm in 2015. You play a child who gets stuck in an underground world and must face the monsters that reside there. Through solving puzzles and fighting monsters, your mainly are faced with a series of choices. Monsters: will they live or die?

Through several playthroughs, you control the fate of the Underground. Spare and befriend the monsters or participate in the mass genocide that brings about their extinction? That is your moral obligation to figure out.

Undertale quickly became one of the bestselling games on steam and has been lauded for its story and gameplay. In a seemingly simple game you find yourself making decisions that drastically affect the outcome of your story. With such success, it’s hard to believe that this indie RPG originally got its start in a Kickstarter campaign.

Monster mama.

7. Don’t Starve Together

Don’t Starve Day 1 – No Commentary

This co-op sandbox survival game by Klei entertainment is one of the quickest ways to break up a friendship group, but you’ll at least enjoy the ride on the way down. Upgraded from its original single-player mode, you are dropped off in the middle of a treacherous wilderness and must harness the nature around you in order to survive—and not starve. The biggest difference is this time you get to bring your friends.

For anyone not familiar with the original game, Don’t Starve tests your limits with survival as you must build fires, structures, and cook food during the day in order to make it through the harsh nights. Occasionally you’ll find yourself attacked by foul creatures of winter, ravenous hounds, and perhaps standing too close to a swinging swamp tentacle.

Don’t Starve Together was a highly requested upgrade that finally came into effect with its beta testing in late 2014 and has since received overwhelmingly positive reviews on Steam for which is its main platform. Although it is still in early access, the game is fully functional and every few months offers a new and exciting upgrade to keep you coming back for more!

Spiders vs Axe.

6. Rust

RUST – Raiding Small Rad (No Commentary)

Rust may still only be in early access, but it shows great potential and picked up a lot of steam over 2015. A classic sandbox survival, you must face the dire consequences of your desolate world, build tools, find shelter, and even avoid radiation.

Perhaps what sets Rust apart from other traditional survival games is the ability to form clans. You can team up with other players online and form raiding parties and pretty much spend your days terrorizing others in your post-apocalyptic world. And even this aspect of gameplay is pretty varied.

So you want to kidnap other players and stick them in an arena for a cannibalistic fight to the death? Doable. Make a meat army of loyal internet followers to do your bidding? Why not? The possibilities are endless. No wonder it’s such a popular game.

Sunset on the apocalypse.

5. Darkest Dungeon

Darkest Dungeon gameplay no commentary

Darkest Dungeons has been on our minds for awhile as its early access was released in the beginning of 2015. Since then gamers have had the pleasure of watching it develop into a rich and rewarding game. It sells big in visuals and its overall strategic rogue-like gameplay.

Perhaps however it delivers best in story. Dive into Darkest Dungeon and learn the haunted past of your home and family. As the protagonist, you inherit a mansion rife with monsters that you must battle and send back to their demonic dimensions. From there you’ll organize expeditions into the dungeon mazes below to put these ghoulish activities to rest.

Who looked at this and didn’t think the place might be haunted?

4. The Long Dark

The Long Dark Walkthrough Part 1 No Commentary

Stranded in the frozen Canadian wilderness, survival is definitely the theme of indie 2015. Although the game is originally meant to be played between two modes: story and sandbox, only sandbox mode set at different difficulties is available for early release. Although still in its beginning stages, the game has been praised for its detail-oriented gameplay and beautiful, though simplistic, art design.

You must scavenge through the frigid tundra, taking factors such as body temperature, hunger, fatigue, as well as numerous other survival means into account. With the episodic storyline still in production however, the overall goal of the game is not yet clear.

Despite this, the game is expansive enough to have a lot of fun running around; free from the horror genre that so usually accompanies these sorts of games. Your enemy instead is the vast and treacherous wilderness, which is more than enough for anyone.

Snow, nature and nothingness. Obviously Canada.

3. Ori and the Blind Forest

Ori and the Blind Forest (No Commentary) Part: 1 of 4

Ori and the Blind Forest is a remarkable visually beautiful puzzle platformer by independent developers, Moon Studios. Although it had a boost in representation by Microsoft picking it up as a publisher, it still has all the charm and organic creativity of an indie game. One of the most unique things about its production is the fact that it was created internationally from developers on opposite sides of the globe. Austria, Israel and Australia are only a few of the countries these developers hail from.

The story of the game follows Ori, an orphaned guardian spirit, as he must help resurrect the dying forest he calls home. The player will use Ori to solve puzzles, build talents, fights enemies and bring balance to the elements. This much buzzed about game will be an experience you’re not likely to forget.

Like playing in a dream.

2. Broforce

Broforce – Gameplay [Pink Version Arrives]

In Broforce you’ll find yourself on an epic journey as a super macho 80’s action hero type that goes out to, well, collect bros. Yes, Broforce is game where you must use your ultra-American manliness and finesse your way through the game so that you can save your bros from captivity.

Broforce received rave reviews from fans as it parodies the ‘Murica subculture of explosions and hyperbole of Hollywood action films. It’s not uncommon to find yourself raising a US flag in celebration after defeating your enemies, the evil “foreign devils”. With such a theme, it isn’t all that a surprise that Broforce has such a large cult following.

Bro exploded by Bro-cannon.

1. The Forest

The Forest Gameplay Part 1 - PC - No Commentary - Max Settings

As a survivor of a plane crash in The Forest, you must fight against the elements, find food to stave off starvation, oh and not get jumped by a bunch of mutant cannibals. The Forest attempts to prepare the average gamer for the least likely scenario of being stranded after a plane crash (as if we care). Build shelter by day, fight evil mutants by night.

Currently the game is still in early development, so only a sandbox feature is available without any quest lines, but it’s on the edge of your seat brilliant nonetheless. Perhaps the most exciting aspect of The Forest is how it is being developed with Oculus Rift in mind. Soon you won’t just be clicking a mouse to fight the cannibals, but fending them off in virtual reality as well!

The Forest May be one of the most popular indie games of 2015, but it may take 2016 along with it if the Oculus Rift VR gameplay turns out anywhere as exciting as we expect it to be. Good things are certainly on the horizon for the indie world.

Sure this game won’t give me nightmares for the rest of my life…

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15 Best Indie Games 2014

10 Indie Games with Distinctive Art Styles

10 Best Indie Games to Play 2015

15 Best Indie Games 2015

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Indie games that rose to popularity during the year 2015

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