jeffreytodd1990@gmail.com

How to Start Your Own Retro Game Collection on a Budget

Introduction Retro game collecting is more popular than ever, but many collectors assume it’s an expensive hobby. The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to build an awesome retro game collection! With the right strategy, you can find cheap retro games, affordable retro gaming consoles, and hidden gems without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll show you how to start a retro game collection on a budget, including the best places to buy retro games cheap, how to spot great deals, and tips for preserving your collection. Define Your Retro Gaming Goals Before you start buying games, decide what you want from your collection. Are you interested in classic video games on a budget, or do you want to collect rare and valuable titles? Consider: By setting clear goals, you’ll avoid overspending on impulse purchases. Best Places to Buy Retro Games Cheap Finding affordable retro gaming consoles and games takes patience, but the right sources can save you a lot of money. Online Marketplaces Local Bargain Spots Pro Tip: Always check prices on sites like PriceCharting.com to avoid overpaying. Budget-Friendly Retro Gaming Consoles If you’re just starting, consider these affordable options: If original hardware is too expensive, consider emulation or FPGA-based consoles like the Analogue Pocket or Retron 5 to play multiple retro games on one system. How to Spot Good Deals & Avoid Overpaying Finding cheap retro games is all about knowing what to look for. ✔ Buy game bundles – Sellers often price bundles cheaper than individual games.✔ Check disc/cartridge condition – Scratches, torn labels, and missing manuals affect value.✔ Negotiate & haggle – At flea markets and garage sales, sellers expect negotiation.✔ Wait for discounts – Game stores often run holiday or clearance sales. Watch out for fake cartridges or bootlegs, especially when buying Game Boy, SNES, or Genesis games. Hidden Gem Retro Games Cheap Not all great retro games are expensive! Here are some underrated, budget-friendly retro games: These games offer fun gameplay without the high price tag of mainstream classics. Preserving & Storing Your Collection on a Budget Once you start collecting, you’ll want to keep your games in great condition. Affordable display solutions like IKEA bookshelves or second-hand media racks can showcase your collection without overspending. Conclusion Building a retro game collection on a budget is totally possible with the right approach! By knowing where to look, setting a budget, and being patient, you can score cheap retro games, budget-friendly retro gaming consoles, and even hidden gems. Start small, have fun hunting for deals, and watch your collection grow over time.

How to Start Your Own Retro Game Collection on a Budget Read More »

The Best Handheld Consoles You Can Buy in 2025

introduction On-the-go gaming has been popular ever since the original Nintendo Gameboy. Today’s gamers however need a little more than pixel art textures to keep them occupied. We need a device capable of beautiful graphics, rich sounds, and above all, the ability to play all of our favorite games on the go. Today we are going to look at my list of The Best Handheld Consoles You Can Buy in 2025. I will not be including the Steam Deck on this list to provide insight on other options on the market. Lenovo Legion Go S Lenovo Legion Go S: Get it Here Tech Specs Performance Processor AMD Ryzen™ Z2 Go  Operating System Windows 11 Home Graphics Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics Memory 32GB 6400MHz LPDDR5X Storage 1TB PCIe SSD Gen 4 Battery 3-cell55.5WHr Audio 2x2W Integrated Speaker SystemDual array mic Connectivity Ports/Slots Headphone/mic combo2x USB4 (40Gb/s data transfer DisplayPort™ 1.4, + Power Delivery 3.0)MicroSD card readerUSB port transfer speeds are approximate and depend on many factors, such as processing capability of host/peripheral devices, file attributes, system configuration and operating environments; actual speeds will vary and may be less than expected. Wireless WiFi 6E 802.11AX (2×2)Bluetooth™ 5.3*6GHz WiFi 6E operation is dependent on the support of the operating system, routers/APs/gateways that support WiFi 6E, along with the regional regulatory certifications and spectrum allocation. Design Display 8″ WUXGA (1920 x 1200) 16:10 aspect ratio, 120Hz variable refresh rate (VRR), 100% sRGB, 500 nits, 10-point touchscreen Dimensions (H x W x D) 22.6mm x 127.55mm x 299mm /  0.89″ x 5.02″ x 11.77″ Weight Starting at 730g / 1.61lbs Color Glacier White PROS CONS Overall I think the Lenovo Legion Go S is a great handheld if you want something better than a Steam Deck. The screen size and some of the other specs make this a great buy, but I would consider taking time to understand the UI and the OS before playing games because it can be confusing to some users. ASUS ROG Ally X rc72la 1TB ROG Ally X (2024) RC72LA: Get it here TECH SPECS Performance Processor AMD Ryzen™ Z1 Extreme Processor Operating System Windows 11 Home Graphics AMD Radeon™ Graphics Memory 12GB*2 LPDDR5 on board (Support dual channel memory) Storage 1TB PCIe SSD Gen 4 Battery 80WHrs, 4S1P, 4-cell Li-ion Audio 2-speaker system with Smart Amplifier Technology Connectivity I/O Ports 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C support DisplayPort™ / power delivery1x Type C support USB 4 (Thunderbolt™ 4 compliance, DisplayPort™ 1.4 with Freesync support, Power Delivery 3.0)1x UHS-II microSD card reader (supports SD, SDXC and SDHC) Network and Communication Wi-Fi 6E(802.11ax) (Triple band) 2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.2 (*Bluetooth® version may change with OS version different.) Design Display 7-inchFHD (1920 x 1080) 16:9IPS-levelglossy displaysRGB:100%Adobe:75.35%Gorilla® Glass Victus™Touch Screen (10-point multi-touch)Refresh Rate:120HzResponse Time:7msBrightness:500nitsFreeSync Premium Dimensions (H x W x D) 28.0 x 11.1 x 2.47 ~ 3.69 cm (11.02″ x 4.37″ x 0.97″ ~ 1.45″) Weight 678 g (1.49 lbs) Color Black PROS CONS The ROG Ally X (2024) RC72LA is another top contender because the battery life and the refresh rates are better than the Steam Deck. Its major drawback is the Windows OS… If you can get past that OS then you’re golden. Retroid Pocket 5 Retroid Pocket 5: Get it here TECH SPECS Performance Processor 1*A77@2.8G 3*A77@2.4G  4*A55@1.8G (SD865) Operating System Android 13 Graphics Adreno 650 Memory 8GB LPDDR4x@2133MHz Storage 128GB UFS 3.1 + TF Card Slot Battery 5000mAh battery Audio 2-speaker system Connectivity I/O Ports 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C support DisplayPort™ / power delivery1x UHS-II microSD card reader (supports SD, SDXC and SDHC) Network and Communication Wi-Fi 6 & BT 5.1 Design Display Screen: 5.5” 1080p AMOLED 500NitsVideo Output: Display Port 1080p60 Dimensions (H x W x D) 199.2*78.5*15.6mm Weight 280 g (0.6 lbs) Color Purple, White, Black, Grey PROS CONS This handheld is the Retroid Pocket 5. While it’s not like the others on this list with the higher specs and abilities, it deserves a look. It’s about a third of the price of the other handhelds on this list and it still provided tons of enjoyment. I think if you are looking for retro emulation then the Retroid Pocket 5 will be the perfect handheld for you. Odin2 Portal (max) Odin2 Portal: Get it here TECH SPEC Performance Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 21 x Cortex X3 CPU core @ 3.2 GHz2 x Cortex A715 CPU cores @ 2.8 GHz2 x Cortex-A710 CPU cores @ 2.8 GHz3 x Cortex-A510 CPU cores @ 2 GHzAdreno 740 graphics Operating System Android 13 Graphics Adreno 740 graphics Memory 16GB LPDDR5x Storage 512GB UFS 4.0 Battery 8,000 mAh battery Audio Stereo front-facing speakers Connectivity I/O Ports 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C1 x mini HDMI1 x 3.5mm audio1 x microSD card reader Network and Communication WiFi 7 Bluetooth 5.3 Design Display 6 inches 1920 x 1080 pixels IPS LCD Touchscreen Dimensions (H x W x D) 225 x 98 x 17mm Weight 420 g (0.92 lbs) Color White, Black, Indigo PROS CONS This device is impressive, but I don’t think it’s the right fit for most people. Its size pushes it into handheld PC territory, and the Pro/Max models are priced similarly, yet it lacks the same level of high-end emulation due to the limitations of Android. With PC handhelds evolving rapidly—now featuring VRR and refresh rates beyond 120Hz—the competition is only getting tougher. The main advantages on the Android side are battery life and reduced input lag from the 120Hz screen, but that benefit is lost if you use BFI. That being said I still think it’s a nice device which is why it made the list. MSI Claw A1M-050US MSI Claw A1M-050US: Get it here TECH SPEC Performance Processor Intel® Core™ Ultra 7-155H 1.4 – 4.8 GHz Operating System Windows 11 Home Graphics Intel® Arc™ Graphics Memory 16GB LPDDR5-6400MHz Storage 1TB NVMe SSD Gen4x4 2230 Battery 6-Cell 53 Battery (Whr) Audio Stereo front-facing speakers Connectivity I/O Ports 1 x

The Best Handheld Consoles You Can Buy in 2025 Read More »

Top 10 Must-Play Classic Games That Still Hold Up Today

Looking for classic games that stand the test of time? Here are 10 must-play retro games that are just as fun today as they were at launch. Introduction Most of us remember our childhood days. Spending time with friends playing games like Super Mario and Street Fighter. Today these games are considered ” retro”…. But that doesn’t mean we can’t still enjoy them. Most of these games still hold their own in a very huge gaming market. Maybe it’s how they were designed or maybe, it’s the fact that they were just so addictive. The point is, is that we still love them, we still play them and we can pass the fun to the younger generations. Let’s dive in! What Makes a Classic Game Still Playable Today? A classic game remains playable today due to a combination of timeless design principles, engaging mechanics, and strong emotional or nostalgic connections. Here’s what makes a classic stand the test of time: The Top 10 Must-Play Classic Games That Still Hold Up The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998) Original Platform: Nintendo 64 The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is a 1998 action-adventure game developed by Nintendo for the Nintendo 64 console. As the fifth installment in The Legend of Zelda series, it was the first to feature 3D graphics. Players control Link, a young hero tasked with stopping the evil Ganondorf from obtaining the Triforce, a sacred relic that grants its holder ultimate power. The game introduced innovative mechanics, such as a targeting system for combat and puzzle-solving, and has been widely acclaimed for its immersive gameplay and storytelling. It has influenced numerous subsequent video games and is often cited as one of the greatest video games of all time. Fun Fact: Find A Free Hylian Shield In Kakariko Village’s graveyard, a hidden grave conceals an underground passage. Within this eerie tunnel lies a chest containing a gleaming Hylian Shield. However, if Link already possesses one, the chest will instead hold a blue Rupee. Super Mario 64 (1996) Original Platform: Nintendo 64 Super Mario 64 (1996) is a landmark 3D platformer developed by Nintendo for the Nintendo 64. Directed by Shigeru Miyamoto, it revolutionized video games with its open-world exploration, dynamic camera system, and innovative gameplay. Players control Mario as he travels through Princess Peach’s castle, collecting Power Stars to stop Bowser. The game’s success has had a lasting influence on the gaming industry, inspiring numerous sequels and adaptations. Fun Fact: Boo’s Cackle The sound for the Boo’s cackle was the sound effect used for Bowser’s laugh sped up. When the sound is played at normal speed it’s a group of people laughing. Usually, when you get the eight red coins in a level, the camera switches to show you where the star has appeared. Final Fantasy VII (1997) Original Platform: Sony Playstation Final Fantasy VII is a role-playing game developed by Square (now Square Enix) and released in 1997 for the PlayStation. It is one of the most influential and beloved RPGs of all time. The game follows Cloud Strife, a former soldier who joins the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE to fight the corrupt Shinra Corporation, which is draining the planet’s life force. Along the way, Cloud and his allies uncover a deeper threat posed by the game’s primary antagonist, Sephiroth. The game features a turn-based battle system, a rich storyline, and groundbreaking 3D graphics for its time. It was a major success both commercially and critically, helping popularize Japanese RPGs in the West. The game has since spawned spin-offs, a feature film (Advent Children), and a full remake series, starting with Final Fantasy VII Remake in 2020. Fun Fact: PlayStation wasn’t the first platform Although the game was released on PlayStation the original development was intended for the Nintendo 64, The switch was due to the expanded storage space the disc games provided over the cartridge. The developers also looked at PC and Sega Saturn as possible platforms. DOOM (1993) Original Platform: MS-DOS Doom (1993) is a groundbreaking first-person shooter developed by id Software. It follows a space marine (often referred to as “Doomguy”) who battles hordes of demons unleashed from Hell after an experiment on Mars’ moon, Phobos, goes wrong. The game is known for its fast-paced gameplay, 3D environments, and pioneering multiplayer deathmatches. It played a crucial role in shaping the FPS genre, introducing mechanics like modding and custom levels. Doom was a massive commercial success and influenced countless games. Its legacy continues with sequels, reboots, and an active modding community. Fun Fact: Doom is playable on just about everything. Modding culture has made this amazing game push the limits of tech by making it playable on many unusual devices including: Pokemon Red/Blue (1998) Original Platform: Nintendo Gameboy Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow are the first-generation Pokémon games developed by Game Freak and published by Nintendo for the Game Boy. Released in Japan in 1996 (as Red and Green), and later in North America (1998) and Europe (1999) as Red and Blue, these games kicked off the global Pokémon phenomenon. Pokémon Yellow was released in 1998 (Japan) and 1999 (internationally) as an enhanced version with elements inspired by the Pokémon anime, featuring Pikachu as the starter Pokémon. Players take on the role of a Pokémon Trainer, traveling through the Kanto region to catch and train Pokémon, battle Gym Leaders, and ultimately challenge the Elite Four to become the Pokémon Champion. The goal is also to complete the Pokédex by capturing all 151 Pokémon. The games introduced turn-based battles, type advantages, and the ability to trade Pokémon via Game Link Cable, encouraging social interaction. Fun Fact: Rhydon, Clefairy, and Lapras were the first Pokémon ever created for the game. Pokémon designer Sugimori confirmed that Rhydon, Clefairy, and Lapras were the first Pokémon ever created for the game. These Pokémon were designed early on as the development team focused on creating creatures that could live alongside human characters, with abilities like carrying items or providing transportation across

Top 10 Must-Play Classic Games That Still Hold Up Today Read More »

 Top 10 Must-Try Mobile Games for 2024: What’s Trending Now

 Top 10 Must-Try Mobile Games for 2024: What’s Trending Now As 2024 is coming to a close and we gear up for 2025, let’s look at my picks for the top mobile games in 2024. These popular mobile games are not only fun to play but they are engaging enough to continue to play in the coming year. This is our list of the most popular mobile games of 2024. Arena of Valor Platforms: iOS, Nintendo Switch, iPadOS, Android PRICE: FREE Google Play / Apple Store (Google Play) Arena of Valor, brought to you by Level Infinite and TiMi Studio Group, is the ultimate real-time 5v5 MOBA experience! Join your friends, create a guild, and master over 100 unique heroes from internationally acclaimed franchises. The future of mobile MOBAs has arrived. Are you ready to become a legend? Why do we Like it Our Thoughts: If you want a straightforward MOBA game that’s easy to grasp and entertaining, consider giving this one a try. Genshin Impact Platforms: GeForce Now, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Android, iOS PRICE: FREE (PlayStation) Set forth on a journey across a fantasy world called Teyvat. In this vast world, explore seven nations, meet a diverse cast of characters with unique personalities and abilities, and fight powerful enemies together with them, all on the way during your quest to find your lost sibling.  Wander freely, immersing yourself in a world filled with life, and let your sense of wonder lead you to uncover all of its mysteries.  WHY do we like it: Our Thoughts: Genshin Impact is a must-play for anyone looking for a visually stunning and immersive gaming experience. With its beautiful views and endless activities, it’s sure to keep you entertained for hours on end. Stardew Valley platforms: PC , Macos , Linux, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Playstation VITA, Nintendo Switch, iOS and Android PRICE: 4.99 Google Play / Apple Store  (Wiki) Players take the role of a character who inherits their deceased grandfather’s dilapidated farm in a place known as “Stardew Valley”. The game was originally released for Windows in February 2016 before being ported to other platforms. Stardew Valley is an open-ended game, allowing players to grow crops, raise livestock, fish, cook, mine, forage, and socialize with the townspeople, including the ability to marry and have children. It allows up to eight players to play online together. Why Do We LIKE IT: OUR THOUGHTS: If you are searching for a game that offers relaxation, fun, and tangible rewards for your efforts, look no further than Stardew Valley. Slay the spire PLATFORMS: Windows, macOS, Linux, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, iOS, Android PRICE: 9.99 Google Play / Apple Store (Wiki) The player attempts to ascend a spire of multiple floors created through procedural generation as one of four characters, battling through enemies and bosses. Combat takes place through a collectible card game-based system, with the player gaining new cards as rewards from combat and other means, requiring the player to use strategies of deck-building games to construct an effective deck to complete the climb. Why Do We LIKE IT: OUR THOUGHTS: If you enjoy card games that require strategy and offer a different challenge each time, Slay The Spire could quickly become your top choice. Pokemon GO Platforms: Android, iOS PRICE: FREE Google Play / Apple Store (Wiki)Pokemon GO is a 2016 augmented reality (AR) mobile game, part of the Pokémon franchise, developed and published by Niantic in collaboration with Nintendo and The Pokémon Company for iOS and Android devices. It uses mobile devices with GPS to locate, capture, train, and battle virtual Pokémon, which appear as if they are in the player’s real-world location. Why Do We LIKE IT: OUR THOUGHTS: The sense of adventure and camaraderie that comes with playing this game is truly unmatched. Whether you’re teaming up with friends to take down a powerful Pokemon or embarking on a solo quest to catch ’em all, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. Overall, this game is a must-play for anyone looking for a thrilling and engaging way to spend time outdoors with friends. Botworld Adventure Platforms: Android, iOS PRICE: FREE Google Play / Apple Store (Featherweight Games) Botworld is a huge, beautiful and varied world which you can explore as you venture out to collect rare scrap and discover new bots. Enter new environments, meet a variety of characters, collect rare treasures and uncover the many secrets hidden in Botworld. You can explore freely the many lush forests and arid deserts but make sure you have a strong team of bots because you never know what’s around the corner. Why Do We Like It: Our Thoughts: Let me ask you a question… When was the last time you played a MOBILE game that was open world, and you could be a cat at the same time? Yeah, I thought so. This game is really fun to play. It is challenging enough to be addictive, but not hard enough to make you rage quit. You should give this one a shot for sure. Call of Duty: MOBILE Platforms: Android, iOS PRICE: FREE Google Play / Apple Store (COD.com)The CALL OF DUTY you know and love but on your mobile device. With multiplayer modes such as Team Deathmatch, Domination, and Kill-Confirmed on iconic maps such as Nuketown, Raid, and Standoff, 100-player Battle Royale, and Zombies modes, CALL OF DUTY: MOBILE has it all! WHY DO WE LIKE IT: Our Thoughts: So I may be a little fanatic about this one because it happens to be my daily played game, but this one is great if you like FPS games. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get good weapons, although you can if you want. The graphics are great. New content to play with constantly. I mean, for FPS, it’s my favorite on mobile. Static Shift Racing Platforms: Android, iOS PRICE: FREE Google Play / Apple Store (Google Play) Static Shift Racing is an open-world racing game set in the late 1990s, with a heavy focus on vehicle customization! Modify your car, choosing from an endless assortment of customization options, then take your ride to the streets to prove your metal on the pavement. Static Shift Racing pits you against real players for

 Top 10 Must-Try Mobile Games for 2024: What’s Trending Now Read More »

Everything We Know about Grand Theft Auto 6

Everything We Know about Grand Theft Auto 6 Rockstar Games has kept much of the game under wraps, but here’s everything that’s currently known, including the release details, setting, characters, and more. 1. Release Date and Platforms After years of speculation, Rockstar confirmed that Grand Theft Auto 6 will be released in Fall 2025. This marks the return of one of the most successful video game franchises of all time. The game will be available initially on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, with a later PC release likely following in 2026, just like the previous titles in the series​. 2. Return to Vice City The game will return to the neon-lit streets of Vice City, a fan-favorite location from GTA: Vice City (2002). Set in the state of Leonida, the modern version of Vice City will offer a dynamic, expanded map that promises to be even more immersive. Familiar locales like Starfish Island have been glimpsed in trailers, suggesting that classic spots will be revisited. However, whether iconic places like the Malibu Club will make an appearance remains unclear​ 3. Multiple Playable Characters One of the exciting features of GTA 6 will be its dual protagonists, Lucia and an unnamed male character. While rumors have referred to the male character as Jason or James, his final name hasn’t been confirmed yet. Lucia and her partner will take on criminal missions, with their dynamic compared to Bonnie and Clyde, adding layers to the storytelling and gameplay​. 4. Cutting-edge graphics and AI As expected from Rockstar, GTA 6 will leverage the latest technology to push the boundaries of realism. The game is expected to feature AI-powered animation and a more immersive open world with upgraded graphics, physics, and artificial intelligence. This means everything, from vehicle handling to environmental interactions, will feel more dynamic and lifelike​. 5. Expansive Online Experience Much like GTA V, GTA 6 will feature a robust online mode. GTA Online was a huge success, and Rockstar is likely to build on that with an even richer online experience. This could include new game modes, heists, and even more customizable features for players, ensuring the online world stays fresh long after the initial release​. 6. Story and Gameplay Though details are sparse, leaks suggest that GTA 6 will involve a lot of action and intrigue, with a focus on crime and complex characters. The game is set in the modern day, moving beyond the 1980s setting of Vice City, and will likely explore new themes related to contemporary culture​. As the excitement around GTA 6 builds, fans are eager for more trailers and updates. Rockstar has promised that the final product will exceed expectations, setting new standards for open-world games. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the franchise, GTA 6 is shaping up to be one of the most revolutionary gaming experiences of the decade.

Everything We Know about Grand Theft Auto 6 Read More »

Top 10 Must-Play Indie Games of 2024: Hidden Gems You Need to Try

Top 10 Must-Play Indie Games of 2024: Hidden Gems You Need to Try As 2024 progresses, the indie gaming scene continues to deliver exceptional, boundary-pushing titles that bring unique gameplay and storytelling to the forefront. Here’s a look at the top 10 must-play indie games of 2024 and 2023  that every gamer should try. 1. Dave the Diver Developer: MINTROCKETGenre: Adventure, ManagementPlatform: PC, Nintendo Switch Release Date June 28, 2023 Dave the Diver is a unique mix of adventure, management, and RPG elements. Players follow Dave, an enthusiastic diver who explores the depths of the ocean by day and runs a sushi restaurant by night. The game’s charming pixel art, quirky characters, and engaging gameplay make it a must-play for anyone who loves a mix of exploration and management mechanics. 2. Sea of Stars Developer: Sabotage StudioPlatform: PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, XboxRelease Date: August 29, 2023 Sea of Stars is a turn-based RPG inspired by classic titles like Chrono Trigger. With stunning pixel art, a rich storyline, and a battle system that emphasizes strategy, this game has captured the hearts of RPG fans looking for nostalgia paired with modern gameplay mechanics. 3. Cocoon Developer: Geometric InteractivePlatform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo SwitchRelease Date: September 29, 2023 From the lead gameplay designer of Inside and Limbo comes Cocoon, a puzzle-adventure game that challenges players to navigate and manipulate nested worlds. Its intriguing mechanics and minimalist storytelling make it one of the most unique gaming experiences of the year. 4. The Plucky Squire Developer: All Possible FuturesPlatform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo SwitchRelease Date: September 17, 2024 The Plucky Squire takes the concept of 2D and 3D gameplay integration to new heights. Players follow Jot, a hero who must leap between a storybook’s 2D pages and the 3D world outside. The seamless blending of these dimensions and creative puzzles make this game stand out. 5. Slay the Princess – The Pristine Cut Developer: Black Tappy GamesPlatform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, macOSRelease Date: October 23, 2023 The game challenges players to question their own morality as they are forced to make difficult decisions that will ultimately determine the fate of the princess. Will they choose to slay her and embrace their darker instincts, or will they resist temptation and find another way to escape the castle? With its unique concept and chilling atmosphere, Slay the Princess offers a fresh take on traditional horror games and pushes players to explore themes of power, control, and redemption in a thrilling and thought-provoking way 6. Venba Developer: Visai StudiosPlatform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo SwitchRelease Date: July 31, 2023 Venba is an interactive narrative cooking game centered around an Indian immigrant family in Canada. The game explores culture, identity, and connection through traditional South Indian recipes. It’s a heartfelt journey filled with authentic storytelling and beautiful art. 7. Lies of P Developer: Neowiz GamesPlatform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/SRelease Date: September 18, 2023 Inspired by the classic tale of Pinocchio, Lies of P is a souls-like action RPG with a unique twist. Players control P, a puppet fighting through a dark, Belle \u00c9poque-inspired city. With intricate combat, weapon customization, and multiple endings, this game offers a compelling challenge for action RPG fans. 8. Planet of Lana Developer: Wishfully StudiosPlatform: PC, Xbox Series X/SRelease Date: May 23, 2023 Planet of Lana is a cinematic puzzle-adventure game that follows the story of Lana and her animal companion, Mui, as they journey through a world teeming with robots and nature. Its hand-painted visuals, emotional story, and cooperative gameplay elements have made it a critical favorite. 9. Afterimage Developer: Aurogon ShanghaiPlatform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo SwitchRelease Date: April 24, 2023 Afterimage is a hand-drawn 2D action-adventure game that delves into the mysteries of a post-apocalyptic world. With challenging combat, deep exploration mechanics, and a beautiful art style, it stands out as one of 2024’s indie hits. 10. Oxenfree II: Lost Signals Developer: Night School StudioPlatform: PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo SwitchRelease Date: July 12, 2023 The sequel to the critically acclaimed Oxenfree, Oxenfree II: Lost Signals continues the series’ eerie storytelling and supernatural intrigue. Players navigate unsettling radio signals and make choices that impact the narrative in unexpected ways, making it a must-play for fans of narrative-driven games. Final Thoughts These top 10 indie games of 2024 and 2023 bring an array of genres and gameplay experiences, from nostalgic RPGs and innovative puzzles to heartfelt narratives and action-packed adventures. If you’re looking to expand your gaming library with hidden gems, these titles will not disappoint. Which of these will you be playing in 2024? Let us know in the comments!

Top 10 Must-Play Indie Games of 2024: Hidden Gems You Need to Try Read More »

Scroll to Top