Unlike AAA games developed by big companies with enormous funding, indie games are created by individuals or small teams full of creativity. Without pressure from major publishers, they have the freedom to experiment and bring something truly original to life.
Imagine a developer working alone in their room, turning a brilliant idea into a game. Or a small team of developers working without creative restrictions, driven purely by passion and love for gaming. From this environment, games like Hollow Knight, Undertale, and Stardew Valley have emerged—titles that may not have big budgets but have managed to shake the industry and capture the hearts of gamers worldwide.
Indie games are known for their unique characteristics. First, they are developed independently, meaning the creators have full control over their game’s world and mechanics. Second, they focus more on gameplay and creativity, rather than relying on flashy visuals or large-scale marketing. Third, due to limited funding and resources, indie game development teams are usually small, sometimes consisting of just one person! Lastly, indie games are often distributed digitally through platforms like Steam, itch.io, or the Nintendo eShop.
You might be wondering, “Why should I play indie games?” The answer is simple: many of them offer a more personal, touching, and often more innovative experience than mainstream games. Celeste, for example, is not just a platformer with precise controls but also delivers a deep message about overcoming anxiety. Hades proves that a roguelike game can have a strong narrative and compelling characters. Inside is a puzzle-platformer that masterfully builds an eerie atmosphere without a single line of dialogue. Dead Cells offers fast-paced action and addictive roguelike mechanics. And of course, The Witness, a puzzle game that challenges your mind with its clever level design and deep mystery.
So, if you’re feeling tired of games that feel repetitive, it’s time to open yourself up to the world of indie games. Who knows? You might just discover your next favorite game in an unexpected place. The indie game world is full of surprises and wonders—waiting for you to explore!
Top 5 Best Indie Games You Must Play
Indie games have proven time and again that creativity and innovation can surpass big budgets. Here are five of the best indie games that have made a lasting impact on the gaming world.
1. Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is an indie metroidvania game developed and published by Team Cherry. First released in 2017, the game quickly gained critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Metroidvania is a sub-genre of action-adventure games that combines exploration and ability-based progression. The term “metroidvania” originates from two classic games, Metroid and Castlevania, which pioneered this style. In metroidvania games, players navigate vast interconnected worlds, with many areas initially inaccessible. As the game progresses, players acquire new abilities that allow them to unlock new paths, creating a deep and non-linear exploration experience.
With its expansive world, hand-drawn art style, and challenging gameplay, Hollow Knight stands as one of the greatest indie games ever made.
Storyline
In Hollow Knight, players control a small, nameless knight exploring the underground kingdom of Hallownest. Once a thriving civilization, Hallownest has fallen due to a mysterious infection that turned its inhabitants into aggressive creatures.
Throughout the journey, players encounter various characters, each with their own stories and motives. By exploring Hallownest, players uncover secrets about the kingdom, its rulers, and the protagonist’s origins. The game’s narrative is delivered subtly through dialogue, environmental storytelling, and hidden lore scattered throughout the adventure.
Gameplay
Hollow Knight follows the metroidvania formula, meaning players must explore a vast interconnected world, unlocking new paths with newly acquired abilities. The combat system is simple yet requires precision, as enemies and bosses have challenging attack patterns.
Beyond combat, players will engage in extensive exploration, solving puzzles, and collecting various items and power-ups. Some key gameplay features include:
- Charm System: Equippable items that provide various effects and enhance the knight’s abilities.
- Soul & Focus: Players can collect Soul from enemies, which can be used for healing or special attacks.
- Platforming & Exploration: Numerous hidden areas can only be accessed with specific abilities, encouraging backtracking once new skills are obtained.
Game Review
Overall, Hollow Knight delivers an outstanding experience for fans of adventure and action games. The gameplay demands skill and precision, but mastering it is highly rewarding. The exploration and combat elements are well-balanced, and the world of Hallownest feels alive with its unique characters and intriguing mysteries.
The beautifully hand-drawn graphics add an artistic flair, while the atmospheric soundtrack enhances the game’s dark and mysterious tone. Additionally, the game’s progression system allows players to upgrade their abilities, making the gameplay more engaging as they advance.
Platforms
Since its release, Hollow Knight has been made available on multiple platforms, including:
- PC (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Nintendo Switch
- PlayStation 4
- Xbox One
The game has also received several free updates, including expansions like Godmaster, Lifeblood, Grimm Troupe, and Hidden Dreams, which introduce new bosses, abilities, and additional challenges.
Sales and Player Base
Since its launch, Hollow Knight has enjoyed massive success among players and the gaming community. As of December 2020, the game had sold over 3 million copies across all platforms. This number continues to rise as its popularity remains strong even years after its initial release. With an active and growing community, Hollow Knight has captivated millions of players eager to explore Hallownest and uncover its hidden secrets.
Hollow Knight: Silksong
The much-anticipated sequel, Hollow Knight: Silksong, follows the story of Hornet, a character from the original game. Unlike the original protagonist, Hornet possesses a more agile and acrobatic combat style, making for a faster-paced experience. The game promises a vast new kingdom filled with unique environments, enemies, and challenges.
While originally planned as an expansion, Silksong evolved into a full-fledged sequel due to its expanded scope. Fans eagerly await its release, expecting the same level of depth, challenge, and atmospheric storytelling that made Hollow Knight a masterpiece.
Expected Release Date
As of now, Hollow Knight: Silksong does not have an official release date. Initially planned for the first half of 2023, Team Cherry later announced a delay to ensure the game’s quality. As of January 2025, Matthew Griffin, responsible for marketing and publishing at Team Cherry, reassured fans that Silksong is still in active development and will be released. However, no specific date has been confirmed yet. Some sources speculate a release in 2025, but without official confirmation, the exact timeline remains a mystery.
Hollow Knight is one of the finest indie games ever created, offering an expansive world, challenging gameplay, and a deep, interpretive narrative. For anyone who enjoys metroidvania games or seeks an atmospheric, tough-but-rewarding adventure, Hollow Knight is an experience not to be missed. With Silksong on the horizon, the legacy of Hollow Knight is far from over.
2. Undertale : An Adventure in the Underground Full of Surprises
Created by a single developer, Toby Fox, Undertale is not your typical RPG. Instead of simply fighting and defeating enemies, players are given the freedom to interact in different ways. Every enemy can be talked to, complimented, or even made to laugh until they ultimately choose to spare the battle without any harm done. But for those who opt for a darker path, the game does not hesitate to show the consequences of their actions.
Throughout the journey, players will meet a variety of unique and memorable characters. There’s Flowey, a small flower that seems friendly but harbors dark secrets. Then there’s Sans and Papyrus, two skeleton brothers with opposite personalities—Sans is laid-back and full of jokes, while Papyrus is ambitious and dreams of becoming an honorable knight. Not to mention Undyne, the brave warrior, Alphys, the shy scientist, and King Asgore, a ruler both respected and burdened with sorrow. Each character has a story and emotions so vivid that players feel truly connected to the world they inhabit.
When battles occur, the game offers a unique mechanic that blends classic RPG elements with bullet hell gameplay. Players control a small heart that must dodge enemy attacks within a confined arena, creating a more dynamic challenge than traditional RPG combat. Each enemy has different attack patterns, and sometimes, the best way to win is not through strength but through understanding.
But it’s not just the combat that makes Undertale so special. The game is packed with clever puzzles, witty dialogue, and emotional moments that can make players both laugh and cry. The branching storyline allows for different experiences based on the player’s choices. Will they become a compassionate hero or a feared force of destruction? The choice is entirely in the player’s hands.
Since its release, Undertale has been available on multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox. More than just exploring the underground world, players have also explored their wallets, making this game a phenomenal success. By the end of 2015, Undertale had sold over 530,000 copies on Steam, and just months later, the number soared past one million.
As of 2024, estimated sales on Steam range between 5 to 10 million copies. In Japan, the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation Vita versions were highly popular, selling over 100,000 copies by 2018. Even on the Nintendo Switch, Undertale made it into the top ten best-selling indie games of 2019. With such impressive numbers, it’s no surprise that millions of players have fallen in love with this unique underground adventure.
More than just a game, Undertale is an experience that touches the heart. It teaches that every action has consequences, that friendships can emerge in the most unexpected places, and that even in a dark world, there is always a glimmer of hope. For anyone seeking an adventure unlike any other, Undertale is a world worth exploring—whether through the sword or through mercy.
3. Stardew Valley
In an industry increasingly dominated by corporate giants, the emergence of an indie game that captivates the world is a rare phenomenon. One such title that has not only endured but evolved into an icon is Stardew Valley. Developed by a single individual, Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone, this game is far more than just another farming simulator—it’s a heartfelt experience that invites players to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and rediscover the meaning of a simple, rural existence.
Game Review
Since its release in 2016, Stardew Valley has proven itself as one of the greatest indie games of all time. With its rich mechanics, vibrant world, and boundless freedom, it offers much more than just farming. Players can build relationships with townspeople, explore monster-infested caves, fish, and even create a thriving agricultural empire.
The charming pixel-art graphics harken back to the golden era of 16-bit gaming, while the soothing soundtrack enhances the tranquil atmosphere. What sets Stardew Valley apart is its ability to provide a deeply personal experience for every player. There is no single “right” way to play—whether you choose to be a prosperous farmer, a fearless miner, or a beloved community figure, the game allows for limitless possibilities.
Storyline
The story of Stardew Valley begins with a simple yet profound premise: a burnt-out office worker, weary of modern life, inherits an old farm in Pelican Town from their grandfather. From here, the player embarks on a journey to restore the long-neglected land while forging connections with the local townsfolk.
However, beneath the town’s peaceful exterior lies a tapestry of conflicts and intriguing narratives. From the struggle against the corporate giant JojaMart to the personal stories of the villagers, each resident has a deeper life beyond what meets the eye. The choices players make in interacting with this world shape a unique narrative that feels deeply personal.
Gameplay & Platforms
With its open-ended gameplay style, Stardew Valley allows players to define their own daily routines. The in-game calendar consists of four seasons, each bringing its own crops, festivals, and special events. Beyond farming, players can fish, mine resources, raise animals, and even marry and start a family.
Initially launched on PC, the game is now available across nearly all platforms, including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and mobile devices. Thanks to an active modding community and continuous updates from the developer, Stardew Valley remains fresh and engaging years after its release.
How Successful Has It Been?
For an indie game crafted by a single developer, the success of Stardew Valley is nothing short of extraordinary. To date, the game has sold over 30 million copies worldwide and continues to attract millions of players across various platforms. Its strong community and extensive modding support have ensured its place as one of the greatest indie games of all time.
For anyone seeking a relaxing yet deeply immersive gaming experience, Stardew Valley is an undeniable gem. It stands as proof that with a strong vision and unwavering dedication, an indie game can indeed become a legend in the gaming industry.
4. Hades, The Indie Masterpiece That Shook the World
The indie gaming world has produced many gems, but few have achieved cult status like Hades. Released by Supergiant Games, Hades proves that indie games can rival—even surpass—AAA titles in quality, innovation, and appeal. With stunning visuals, addictive gameplay, and an immersive narrative, Hades is not just a game; it’s a deep and passionate experience.
Review
Hades is the perfect blend of roguelike and hack-and-slash action. With fast-paced combat that demands sharp reflexes, this game delivers an incredibly satisfying experience every time players conquer the Underworld’s foes. The “boon” system, which grants powers from the gods of Greek mythology, ensures that every run feels unique, adding a layer of strategy that keeps gameplay fresh.
Its visuals are stunning, featuring Supergiant Games’ signature art style—rich in color and expression, breathing life into each character. The epic soundtrack, crafted by Darren Korb, enhances the grand and dramatic atmosphere, making every battle even more intense.
Storyline
You play as Zagreus, the son of Hades, who is determined to escape the Underworld and find his mother. However, this journey is more than just an escape—it’s an emotional exploration of family dynamics, rebellion, and self-discovery. Each time Zagreus fails and returns to the starting point, the narrative continues to evolve, adding remarkable depth to the storytelling. This is one of those rare games where failure is not an end but an integral part of the experience.
Gameplay
As a roguelike, Hades challenges players to repeatedly traverse the Underworld, each time with different power combinations and strategies. Players can wield various weapons, from swords to spears, and acquire “boons” from gods like Zeus, Athena, and Poseidon to enhance their combat abilities.
The game is available on multiple platforms, including PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox, making it accessible to a broad audience of gamers.
Success Story
Since its release, Hades has received universal acclaim and won numerous awards, including multiple Game of the Year honors. The game sold over 1 million copies during its Early Access phase alone and has now surpassed 7 million units. Its popularity is reflected in its ever-growing player base and a strong, enthusiastic community.
Hades is proof that indie games can become global phenomena with quality equal to—or even surpassing—AAA games. With its compelling narrative, engaging gameplay, and breathtaking art design, Hades is more than just a game; it’s a masterpiece that deserves its place in gaming history. If you’re a fan of roguelikes, fast-paced action, or Greek mythology, Hade is a must-play.
5. The Witness
In the world of indie games filled with fast-paced action and striking visuals, The Witness stands out as an anomaly that relies on exploration and puzzle-solving. Released in 2016, this game by Jonathan Blow immediately captured attention with its intelligent level design and immersive atmosphere. It’s no surprise that The Witness is often regarded as one of the masterpieces in the puzzle genre.
Gameplay Review
The Witness is an exploration-based puzzle game that transports players to a mysterious island filled with puzzle panels. Without lengthy tutorials or explicit hints, the game encourages organic learning. Each puzzle introduces a new mechanic, requiring players to observe their surroundings and identify hidden patterns. With its minimalist, vibrant visuals and a beautifully designed world, the game successfully creates an experience that is both deeply engaging and intellectually stimulating.
Storyline: Mysterious and Philosophical
Rather than presenting a direct narrative, The Witness allows players to piece together the story through exploration. The island is scattered with audio recordings from great thinkers like Richard Feynman and Ludwig Wittgenstein, delivering philosophical messages on perception, consciousness, and intellectual enlightenment. This game is not just about solving puzzles; it’s a journey of thought that invites players to reflect on deeper concepts.
How to Play: More Than Just Solving Puzzles
The core gameplay of The Witness revolves around solving over 500 grid-based puzzles scattered across the island. However, it’s not just about completing puzzles but also about understanding patterns, the relationships between puzzles, and how the environment itself provides hidden clues.
The puzzles in this game follow different rules, from drawing the correct path on a grid to deciphering patterns based on light and shadows. Each section of the island presents unique challenges—some puzzles rely on sound, reflections, or even the player’s perspective. There is no single universal solution, and the game forces players to think outside the box.
Additionally, The Witness challenges patience and perseverance. Many puzzles appear impossible at first, but through exploration and careful observation, the answers gradually become clear. There are no automatic hints or assistance, making each success feel truly rewarding.
Platforms and Accessibility
The game is available on multiple platforms, including PC (Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, iOS, and macOS, ensuring accessibility for players across different devices. The mobile version maintains the same experience without compromising the essence of exploration and intellectual challenge.
How Popular Is The Witness?
Since its release, The Witness has sold over 1 million copies within its first few years and continues to hold a special place in the hearts of puzzle game enthusiasts. While it may not be as widely recognized as AAA titles, it has built a dedicated fanbase and is highly respected within the indie gaming community.
Overall, The Witness is proof that indie games can offer more than just entertainment. With its intelligent puzzles, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking philosophical elements, this game is a must-play for anyone seeking a deep, brain-teasing experience in a virtual world.
Conclusion
These five indie games showcase the power of creativity and storytelling in the gaming industry. Whether you’re looking for action, adventure, puzzles, or heartfelt storytelling, indie games have something special to offer. If you haven’t played these titles yet, now’s the perfect time to dive in!
