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: MINTROCKET
Genre: Adventure, Management
Platform: 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 Studio
Platform: PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
Release 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 Interactive
Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
Release 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 Futures
Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
Release 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 Games
Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, macOS
Release 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 Studios
Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
Release 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 Games
Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Release 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 Studios
Platform: PC, Xbox Series X/S
Release 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 Shanghai
Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
Release 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 Studio
Platform: PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch
Release 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!
