“Indie games” are video games developed without the aid of a publisher, hence the name: independent. Games like this are theorized and developed by much smaller organizations than those behind, say, Call of Duty. Unfortunately, lack of a publisher also means a lack of funding, which is typically the greatest hurdle an indie developer will face, resulting in many developers turning to Kickstarter campaigns in order to fund their projects. However, there are some creative advantages that come with being an independent creator. While more mainstream companies have to appease many executives and appeal to wider audiences to turn a profit, indie games often boast more individual creativity and originality. The product of that creativity is masterfully demonstrated in the titles I wish to share with you today:
That Dragon, Cancer – Numinous Games
Released: January
That Dragon, Cancer is an intimate journey into the lives of Ryan and Amy Green after discovering that their third child has been diagnosed with cancer. Playing it is certainly a humanizing experience that will make you want to grab your phone to call your loved ones. There are parts that come off a bit clunky, but I believe it contributes to the overall genuine feel of the experience. To some, the game may be considered a “walking simulator” being that the game does challenge the definition of what a videogame is. However, if you’re open to the functionality of video games being more of an interactive, narrative-based art form, then That Dragon, Cancer is arguably one of the best to ever do it.
#Art #Narrative #Adventure #WalkingSimulator
The Witness – Thekla Inc.
Released: January
Next up is the puzzle-gamer’s dream come true, The Witness. This 3D Labyrinth-style puzzler rejuvenates the genre with its original design. Beginning the game on a mysterious island, you must complete a series of puzzles to unveil the mystery behind the island and the mountain that rests upon it. While certainly frustrating, the puzzles never feel bogus or unsolvable. On top of that, throughout the game you find audio logs of quotes from famous scientists and mathematicians which are relevant to the assigned tasks. With roughly 650 solvable puzzles, stunning visuals, and a touch of narrative, The Witness undeniably earns its spot on this list.
#Puzzle #3D #Adventure
Firewatch – Campo Santo
Released: February
Probably my personal pick for indie game of the year, Firewatch is the satisfying adventure game you have been waiting for. A perfect balance of adventure, action, narrative, and visuals, it is an absolute must-buy for any indie game enthusiast. In the game you play as Henry, a man who takes a job in the middle of the Wyoming forest in order to escape the turbulence of his personal life. His only companion is his boss, Delilah, who he’s constantly communicating with via his hand radio. As the story unfolds and their relationship develops, players are swept up into Henry’s story of self discovery and adventure.
#Adventure #Mystery
Inside – Playdead
Released: June
One of the most anticipated indies of the year, Inside had pretty big shoes to fill following its predecessor, Limbo. This time, in my opinion, the developers at Playdead really hit the nail on the head. Inside draws upon and successfully implements the haunting, uneasy ambiance of Limbo and then expands on that with a three-dimensional take on the side scrolling 2D puzzle platformer. It’s shocking, disturbing, and thought-provoking. Make sure you check your closet and under your bed before you follow our young, silent protagonist through this dismal, unsettling world.
#Platformer #Puzzle #Horror #SideScroller
Overcooked – Ghost Town Games
Released: August
Certainly the lightest entry on this list, Overcooked is a genuinely fun, original take on the classic “Diner Dash” genre. Thanks to the internet age we now live in, the local multiplayer seems to be a dying genre. More and more games are substituting split-screen for online play; long ago are the days when you would have a bunch of your pals over to play Mario Kart till you crashed on the couch coming down from all of that Mountain Dew. That is, until Overcooked came along. Having played several times with friends, I can say that Overcooked is my favorite casual multiplayer of 2016. It’s a cooperative diner dash where you have to team up with your friends to get the orders out on time, while overcoming several obstacles including moving floors, conveyor belts, starving sewer rats, all to appease the cartoonishly terrifying monster introduced at the start of the game. I do not hesitate to recommend Overcooked to anyone looking for an exciting, original party game.
Honorable Mentions:
Abzu
Superhot
Replica
1979 Revolution: Black Friday
No Man’s Sky
Hyper Light Drifter
2017 Indie Spotlight:
Hello Neighbor
By no means is this a “best of” list; these games are in no particular order. They are just some games I enjoyed and thought deserved some more attention. If you like these games, buy them! Indie developers depend on sales to continue to produce the original, creative content that we love!