Indie games have been making a big splash in the gaming world in recent years, offering unique and innovative experiences that can rival those of big-budget releases. With so many indie games released each year, it can be hard to keep track of the best ones. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 indie games of the year, in no particular order, to help you navigate the world of indie gaming.
1. Hades
Hades is a rogue-like dungeon crawler developed by Supergiant Games. Set in the underworld of Greek mythology, players take on the role of Zagreus, the son of Hades, as he attempts to escape his father’s domain. With fast-paced combat, stunning visuals, and a compelling narrative, Hades was a standout indie game of the year.
2. Spiritfarer
Spiritfarer, developed by Thunder Lotus Games, is a cozy management game that follows Stella, a ferry master for the deceased. Players must build and upgrade their ferry, care for the spirits on board, and explore a beautifully crafted world. With its heartfelt story and engaging gameplay, Spiritfarer was a must-play for indie game enthusiasts.
3. Carrion
Carrion is a reverse-horror game developed by Phobia Game Studio. Players take on the role of a shape-shifting monster as it escapes captivity and wreaks havoc on its captors. With its unique gameplay and gruesome visuals, Carrion was a refreshing take on the horror genre.
4. Kentucky Route Zero
Kentucky Route Zero is a surreal point-and-click adventure game developed by Cardboard Computer. Set in a magical realist version of Kentucky, players follow the journey of a truck driver as he navigates the mysterious roads of the Zero. With its dreamlike atmosphere and thought-provoking narrative, Kentucky Route Zero was a standout indie title of the year.
5. Fall Guys
Fall Guys, developed by Mediatonic, took the gaming world by storm with its chaotic battle royale gameplay. Players compete in a series of mini-games as they race to be the last one standing. With its colorful visuals and addictive gameplay, Fall Guys was a fun and lighthearted addition to the indie gaming scene.
6. Little Nightmares II
Little Nightmares II, developed by Tarsier Studios, is a puzzle-platformer horror game that follows the story of Mono and Six as they navigate a dark and twisted world. With its eerie atmosphere and challenging puzzles, Little Nightmares II was a standout title in the indie horror genre.
7. Spelunky 2
Spelunky 2, developed by Mossmouth, is a roguelike platformer that follows the adventures of a spelunker as they explore dangerous caves in search of treasure. With its challenging gameplay and endless replayability, Spelunky 2 was a hit among indie game fans.
8. Raji: An Ancient Epic
Raji: An Ancient Epic, developed by Nodding Heads Games, is an action-adventure game set in ancient India. Players take on the role of Raji as she battles demons and gods in an epic quest to save her brother. With its beautiful art style and engaging combat, Raji was a standout indie game of the year.
9. Olija
Olija, developed by Skeleton Crew Studio, is a 2D action-adventure game that follows the journey of Faraday, a shipwrecked sailor, as he explores a mysterious world. With its atmospheric visuals and engaging gameplay, Olija was a hidden gem in the indie gaming scene.
10. Carto
Carto, developed by Sunhead Games, is a unique puzzle-adventure game that follows the story of Carto, a young girl who can manipulate the world by rearranging maps. With its charming art style and creative gameplay mechanics, Carto was a delightful indie game that stood out from the crowd.
In conclusion, the indie gaming scene continues to produce innovative and compelling games that offer something for every type of gamer. Whether you’re a fan of action, adventure, puzzle, or horror games, there’s sure to be an indie title that will capture your interest. The top 10 indie games of the year listed above are just a small sample of the incredible indie games released in 2021, and we can’t wait to see what the indie gaming scene has in store for us in the future.
