Best Indie Games of 2024
Here are our picks for the top indie games of 2024 and the winner of Best Indie Games of 2024.
Games by Admin on Dec 30, 2024
Indie games have always been a cornerstone of gaming, with some of the most beloved games ever produced coming out from small or individual developers following their passions. This genre thrives on a potent blend of passion, innovation, and artistry. Fueled by a deep love for the medium, independent developers push creative boundaries and challenge conventions.
This passion translates into unique and personal experiences, while innovation drives them to experiment with new gameplay mechanics, art styles, and narrative structures. This artistic expression, unburdened by the constraints of large publishers, allows for a diverse and exciting landscape of games that showcase the true power of independent creativity.
With that thought, here are our picks for the top indie games of 2024 and the winner of Best Indie Games of 2024.
1000xResist
In 1000xRESIST, humanity lives underground, ravaged by a disease unleashed by an alien invasion. You are Watcher, a loyal servant of the enigmatic ALLMOTHER. But when you uncover a chilling truth that shatters your faith, your existence is irrevocably altered, thrusting you into a thrilling struggle for survival and freedom.
1000xRESIST is a thought-provoking indie game with a powerful story and immersive world-building. While its heavy themes may not appeal to everyone, its compelling narrative and impressive storytelling make it a memorable experience.
ANIMAL WELL
ANIMAL WELL is a captivating Metroidvania with a dark neon aesthetic that immerses players in a labyrinthine underground world. Developed by Shared Memory LLC, this puzzle-platformer challenges players with cryptic puzzles and encourages exploration through minimalist gameplay. Controlling a blob-like creature, players must navigate a haunting atmosphere, discover hidden abilities, and unlock new areas to unravel the game's mysteries.
While the lack of traditional combat and subtle story may not appeal to all, the engaging puzzles, unique art style, and rewarding exploration make ANIMAL WELL a compelling experience for those who enjoy a challenging and atmospheric adventure.
Cat Quest III
Open-world adventure games always resonate well with those who play them. Cat Quest III takes that up to 11. This entry features unique gameplay elements, such as new weapon subclasses, ship combat, and weapon switching, which are enjoyable. However, the game's scope feels somewhat limited.
The number of side quests and main story missions is limited, leading to a faster-than-expected completion. Additionally, the weapon selection feels restricted compared to previous entries, with many powerful weapons tied to the main questline rather than challenging side quests. While the game introduces engaging new mechanics, the lack of extensive exploration and a more gradual progression feels like a departure from the series' strengths.
Despite these minor criticisms, Gentlebros' unique gameplay is deeply appreciated. Future entries could benefit from expanded scope, offering a more challenging and rewarding experience for players.
Diplomacy is Not an Option
Diplomacy is Not an Option is one of the best games to come out this year. It is a highly engaging and fast-paced game with few flaws. It offers a compelling blend of challenging yet accessible gameplay, allowing for both intense combat and more relaxed city-building experiences.
Whether you're drawn to the dynamic campaigns, engaging challenges, or the freedom of sandbox mode, the game provides endless entertainment. With its blend of RTS and city-building elements, Diplomacy is Not an Option delivers a truly satisfying experience for players of all skill levels.
Dungeons of Hinterberg
Dungeons of Hinterberg is an action-packed RPG with a captivating art style, a beautifully crafted world, an engaging story, and highly addictive gameplay. This gem features over 20 dungeons to explore, filled with challenging puzzles. It offers a refreshing take on the Action-RPG genre, bringing a modern feel to familiar elements. While the world is visually stunning and boasts an enchanting soundtrack, its structure can sometimes feel confusing and hinder player immersion.
Regardless, it's one of the best indie games released this year and is a must-play for everyone.
Harold Halibut
Harold Halibut is a remarkable achievement, a testament to the power of artistic collaboration. Its superbly-told story, coupled with a unique blend of artistic disciplines, creates a lasting emotional impact. This comedic sci-fi journey of self-discovery is a rare gem, leaving an indelible mark on the player.
However, its appeal may be limited. Harold Halibut thrives on its narrative and world-building, featuring a simple gameplay loop. Players who prioritize deep narratives and immersive environments, appreciating the focus on story and atmosphere over complex mechanics, will likely find themselves captivated by the unique world of Fedora. Essentially, Harold Halibut is best suited for players who value artistic expression and thoughtful storytelling over fast-paced action or intricate gameplay systems.
Nine Sols
This indie game stands out as one of the best in recent memory. The captivating art style and challenging, Sekiro-inspired combat system are major highlights. While the difficulty curve steepens significantly towards the end, the combat remains fair and rewarding, providing a greater sense of accomplishment than simply leveling up.
The inclusion of an easy mode ensures accessibility, though the standard difficulty offers a more rewarding experience for those seeking a challenge. Minor drawbacks include the map and the convoluted requirements for the true ending.
The final boss is a masterpiece, delivering an exhilarating sense of triumph upon defeat. The game boasts an amazing soundtrack and features a compelling protagonist with engaging character relationships. Overall, this is an exceptional indie game with captivating gameplay, a challenging yet rewarding combat system, and a compelling narrative.
Overall, the game is a showstopper, a game that comes out only once every few years. Something may just change the landscape and leave a memorable legacy and mark.
Tiny Glade
Tiny Glade is a truly exceptional game. Its focus on relaxation and simplicity is refreshing in today's microtransaction-heavy gaming landscape. The game offers a serene experience, allowing players to escape from the stresses of daily life and create their own idyllic world.
There is no end goal, no ultimate objective, and that actually serves the game well. It certainly won't appeal to everyone, but it remains a game that evokes your childhood, bringing life to your imagination and letting you drift into a cute world.
Thank Goodness You're Here!
Thank Goodness You're Here! is a quirky and hilarious game with charming hand-drawn art. It might not have the smoothest gameplay, but its offbeat humor and love letter to a typical English town more than makeup for it.
This game is a delightful surprise, packed with secrets and brimming with personality. While it might not be for everyone, especially those who aren't easily amused, it's a truly unique and enjoyable experience.
Turnip Boy Robs a Bank
Turnip Boy Robs a Bank is a blast to play. It looks fantastic, plays smoothly, and the music is catchy. While it doesn't reinvent the roguelite wheel, the fast-paced action and quirky story keep things engaging. The gameplay loop is satisfying, and you'll have a lot of fun blasting your way through enemies. While some parts might be a bit too easy, the overall experience is enjoyable.
However, Turnip Boy Robs a Bank doesn't quite reach the top tier of roguelites. The game doesn't bring many groundbreaking new ideas to the table either. Despite these minor drawbacks, Turnip Boy Robs a Bank is a fun and entertaining game that's perfect for a quick playthrough.
NoobFeed's Best Indie Game of 2024: Nine Sols
Now, every game on this list is a top contender, and it was a hard choice to actually pick between them. Some of these games would've easily snatched it at any given time. However, there can only be one, and of all the games here, only one surpasses everything. Nine Sols is the right mixture of that craft of love found within all indie games, mechanics, and gameplay that innovates itself, all the while not forgetting its roots.
Also, check the best games of the other categories and NoobFeed's GOTY 2024 below:
Admin, NoobFeed
Latest Articles
No Data.