1000xRESIST takes you on a mysterious sci-fi adventure. Unknown threats have forced mankind to live deep underground. You are the “Guardian” and live in strict loyalty to the All Mother - until you suddenly discover a disturbing secret that turns your world upside down. | © Sunset Visitor
Animal Well is an atmospheric metroidvania/puzzle-platformer game from 2024 in which you play as a small, defenseless creature exploring a dark, underground ecosystem. In various biomes, you use a range of unusual tools such as bubble wands to uncover secrets, escape threats and overcome obstacles.
The game's focus is on exploration and creative solutions, with the creepy, neon-lit style adding to the tension and curiosity. | © Shared Memory
In Another Crab's Treasure, you play as Kril, a hermit crab navigating a polluted underwater world on a quest to reclaim his stolen shell. Using trash as makeshift armor, Kril battles oversized sea creatures in a challenging, "soulslike" combat style.
The game combines exploration with unique, sea-creature-inspired combat techniques, making it both accessible for newcomers and engaging for genre veterans. | © Aggro Crab
Lorelei and the Laser Eyes is a mysterious puzzle adventure game in which players explore a haunted European mansion full of cryptic clues and tricky puzzles. The game is set in a dark, surreal atmosphere.
It challenges players to decode symbols, uncover hidden objects, and solve multi-layered puzzles to unravel its secrets. | © Simogo
Balatro is a roguelike deckbuilder that combines strategic card gameplay with poker mechanics. Released in February 2024, players build decks using a variety of cards, including tarot and joker cards, to face increasingly difficult challenges.
The game is known for its high replay value and humorous, yet deep, tactical elements. Balatro has quickly gained a strong following due to its unique approach to card-based combat. | © LocalThunk
Little Kitty, Big City is a charming exploration game where players control a curious cat navigating a bustling urban environment. The game emphasizes freedom of exploration, allowing the feline protagonist to interact with the world, solve puzzles, and engage with its colorful inhabitants.
With a focus on a relaxed pace and delightful visuals, it offers a whimsical journey through city streets, parks, and rooftops, appealing to fans of cute, lighthearted adventures. | © Double Dagger Studio
Hades II is the highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed Hades. Players control Melinoë, the sister of Zagreus, as she embarks on a quest to defeat the Titan of Time.
The game builds upon the original's fast-paced combat and roguelike mechanics, introducing new weapons, gods, and abilities. It continues to offer challenging gameplay with deep storytelling, further enhancing its mythological universe. | © Supergiant Games
Nine Sols is a visually stunning action-platformer set in a world inspired by Asian mythology. Players control a lone warrior seeking revenge against powerful enemies in a beautiful universe.
The game blends fast-paced combat with exploration, offering intricate boss battles and a deep, atmospheric world. Its unique art style and challenging gameplay have garnered attention from fans of action games and mythological tales. | © Red Candle Games
With My Past is a narrative-driven puzzle game that delves into emotional storytelling and exploration. Players navigate through fragmented memories, solving puzzles that reveal the protagonist's past.
The game combines a unique blend of puzzles with a deep narrative to explore themes of memory, regret, and redemption. It offers an introspective experience with a focus on environmental storytelling and emotional depth. | © Imagine Wings Studio
Pacific Drive is a survival-driving game set in the dangerous Olympic Exclusion Zone. Players control a driver navigating this hostile environment in a customizable station wagon, facing hazardous anomalies and strange phenomena.
The game mixes roguelike elements with exploration and vehicle upgrades, offering a fresh take on the genre. Each playthrough presents new challenges, as players attempt to survive and escape the increasingly perilous world. | © Ironwood Studios
Indie games are known for often setting new standards with original ideas and bold concepts, and captivating fans in unique ways. Independent developers have the freedom to take creative risks that large studios are often denied.
Of course, this list is a subjective representation. If you miss your favorite indie game from 2024, let us know your suggestions in the comments!
