The year 2023 has been a remarkable one for the video game industry, with a myriad of releases that can be tough to keep track of. Despite our diligence at Polygon in staying abreast of the video game landscape, there are still a number of impressive indie games that may have flown under your radar this year. Here, we have curated a list of 10 indie games that you may have missed, encompassing everything from lighthearted multiplayer experiences to complex roguelike adventures in inventory management.
Bread & Fred
Bread & Fred is a cooperative game that casts players in the roles of two penguins linked by a short rope as they ascend a snow-covered mountain. This challenging game requires precise communication between players, offering a comical experience, particularly when played with a friend. The inclusion of slapstick animations amplifies the game’s comedic value.
American Arcadia
Set in a city akin to the 1970s, American Arcadia follows Trevor, an office worker who uncovers a profound deception that colors his entire existence. Combining side-scrolling platformer elements with first-person puzzle-solving, the game transitions between perspectives to effectively convey an unsettling sense of unease, mirroring the revelation about the game’s world.
El Paso, Elsewhere
Fans of Max Payne will find interest in El Paso, Elsewhere, a third-person shooter with graphics reminiscent of the PlayStation era, weaving a poignant tale of addiction and heartbreak against the backdrop of vampires and werewolves in a supernatural motel.
A Highland Song
From the minds behind 80 Days and Heaven’s Vault, A Highland Song presents a visually stunning game portraying the beauty of the Scottish Highlands, emphasizing the journey through music from Scottish folk artists TALISK and Fourth Moon.
MyHouse
MyHouse.wad is a Doom mod that carries a touching backstory. Originally crafted by a user named Veddge to commemorate his departed friend, the map is a lovingly constructed tribute reflecting the creator’s altruistic intentions.
Videoverse
Videoverse transports players back to the early days of the internet, recreating the experience of interacting with strangers in forums and chat rooms. It offers a heartfelt reflection on the impact of technology on our lives, focusing on a fictional forum dedicated to a waning MMO.
A Space for the Unbound
Set in 1990s Indonesia, A Space for the Unbound marries a slice-of-life narrative about high school sweethearts with a supernatural menace threatening the world. Its sincere storytelling and stunning pixel art make it a game worthy of attention.
Tape to Tape
Tape to Tape is a roguelite hockey game that tasks players with assembling a team and managing various aspects of the sport. It blends the excitement of hockey gameplay with roguelike mechanics, offering opportunities for cooperative multiplayer.
Moonring
Despite its retro aesthetics, Moonring is a comprehensive and expansive game that evokes the freedom reminiscent of 1980s gaming. Furthermore, it is available for free, making it a must-try for those seeking the vintage gaming experience.
Backpack Hero
Backpack Hero reimagines the classic dungeon crawler by introducing a Tetris-like inventory management system, melding two distinct genres into a unique and engaging gaming experience. With over 800 items, 100 enemies, and procedurally generated dungeons, it promises endless replay value.
For those in search of exceptional indie games to enrich their library, we recommend exploring these titles. The indie game landscape is teeming with creativity and innovation, and these games represent just a small fraction of the diversity and quality on offer. It’s entirely possible that you may discover your next favorite game among them!
