Indie games have been making a significant impact on the gaming industry in recent years, offering unique and innovative experiences that often surpass those of big-budget AAA titles. With their creative storytelling, captivating gameplay, and beautiful art styles, indie games have continued to impress gamers around the world. As we near the end of the year, it’s time to take a look back at some of the best indie games that have been released in 2021.
1. “Death’s Door”
“Death’s Door” is a top-down action-adventure game developed by Acid Nerve and published by Devolver Digital. Players take on the role of a crow who works as a reaper, tasked with collecting the souls of the deceased. The game features challenging combat, intricate puzzles, and a hauntingly beautiful world to explore. With its engaging story and stunning visuals, “Death’s Door” has been praised by critics and players alike for its unique take on the afterlife.
2. “Kena: Bridge of Spirits”
Developed by Ember Lab, “Kena: Bridge of Spirits” is a visually stunning action-adventure game that follows the journey of a young spirit guide named Kena. Players must navigate through a mystical world filled with adorable creatures and powerful spirits, using Kena’s magical abilities to uncover the secrets of the land. With its charming characters, emotional storytelling, and engaging gameplay, “Kena: Bridge of Spirits” has quickly become a fan favorite in the indie gaming community.
3. “The Artful Escape”
“The Artful Escape” is a musical platformer developed by Beethoven & Dinosaur and published by Annapurna Interactive. Players assume the role of a young musician seeking to find themselves through music, embarking on a wild and fantastical journey through dimensions beyond comprehension. With its vibrant art style, psychedelic visuals, and immersive soundtrack, “The Artful Escape” offers a truly unique and captivating gaming experience that is not to be missed.
4. “Chicory: A Colorful Tale”
Developed by Greg Lobanov and published by Finji, “Chicory: A Colorful Tale” is a charming adventure game that lets players explore a black-and-white world and bring color back to it using a magical paintbrush. As players paint their way through the world, they uncover secrets, solve puzzles, and interact with quirky characters. With its relaxing gameplay, heartfelt story, and gorgeous hand-drawn art style, “Chicory: A Colorful Tale” has won the hearts of players looking for a soothing and uplifting gaming experience.
5. “Loop Hero”
“Loop Hero” is a unique roguelike deck-building game developed by Four Quarters and published by Devolver Digital. Players must strategically place cards on a grid to create a looping path for their hero to navigate, battling monsters and collecting loot along the way. With its addictive gameplay, retro-inspired graphics, and innovative mechanics, “Loop Hero” has become a surprise hit among indie game enthusiasts.
6. “Unpacking”
Developed by Wren Brier and published by Humble Games, “Unpacking” is a cozy puzzle game that invites players to unpack boxes and decorate rooms in various homes over the course of several years. Through the act of unpacking and arranging items, players uncover the story of the person they are helping to move. With its relaxing and meditative gameplay, detailed pixel art, and emotional storytelling, “Unpacking” offers a touching and intimate gaming experience that resonates with players on a personal level.
7. “Eastward”
“Eastward” is an action-adventure game developed by Pixpil and published by Chucklefish. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, players assume the roles of a miner named John and a mysterious girl named Sam as they embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind the strange occurrences plaguing their world. With its retro-inspired visuals, engaging combat, and emotional storytelling, “Eastward” has received critical acclaim for its atmospheric world-building and compelling characters.
8. “Inscryption”
Developed by Daniel Mullins Games, “Inscryption” is a dark and twisted card-based roguelike game that combines elements of deck-building, puzzle-solving, and narrative storytelling. Players must strategically build their deck, outwit their opponents, and uncover the secrets of the mysterious game they are playing. With its gripping storyline, creepy atmosphere, and innovative gameplay mechanics, “Inscryption” offers a unique and mind-bending gaming experience that keeps players on the edge of their seats.
9. “The Longing”
“The Longing” is an indie adventure game developed by Studio Seufz that defies traditional gaming conventions by emphasizing the passage of time and solitude. Players assume the role of a lonely Shade who must wait 400 days for their king to awaken, passing the time by exploring caves, reading books, and interacting with various objects in their underground home. With its minimalist art style, ambient soundtrack, and thought-provoking narrative, “The Longing” offers a contemplative and introspective gaming experience that encourages players to reflect on the nature of time and existence.
10. “Sable”
Developed by Shedworks and published by Raw Fury, “Sable” is a visually stunning open-world exploration game that follows the journey of a young nomad named Sable as she embarks on a rite of passage to discover her place in the world. Players must traverse a vast desert landscape, solve puzzles, and interact with various characters and creatures along the way. With its breathtaking art direction, tranquil gameplay, and emotional storytelling, “Sable” has captured the hearts of players with its sense of wonder and discovery.
In conclusion, the indie gaming scene continues to thrive with a diverse range of titles that push the boundaries of creativity and imagination. The ten games listed above represent some of the best indie games released in 2021, each offering a unique and captivating experience that showcases the talent and innovation of indie developers. Whether you’re a fan of action-adventure games, puzzle games, or narrative-driven experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the world of indie gaming. So, if you’re looking for a fresh and exciting gaming experience, be sure to check out these top indie games of the year and support the talented developers behind them.
