While big-budget titles often dominate the gaming landscape, indie developers continue to push boundaries and deliver innovative experiences in the action-adventure genre. From captivating storytelling to unique gameplay mechanics, indie games offer a fresh perspective and unforgettable journeys. Here are some indie action-adventure gems you absolutely need to play.
1. Hollow Knight: Silksong
Developer: Team Cherry
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC
Hollow Knight: Silksong is the highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed Hollow Knight. In this mesmerizing 2D world, players take on the role of Hornet, a fierce princess on a quest to uncover her past and conquer new challenges. With its stunning hand-drawn art style, challenging gameplay, and rich lore, Hollow Knight: Silksong promises to be an unforgettable adventure.
2. Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Developer: Moon Studios
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PC
Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a breathtakingly beautiful platformer that combines stunning visuals with heartfelt storytelling. Players embark on a journey as Ori, a guardian spirit, to unravel the mysteries of a lush and vibrant forest. With its fluid gameplay, emotional narrative, and awe-inspiring soundtrack, Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a must-play for fans of the genre.
3. Hyper Light Drifter
Developer: Heart Machine
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Hyper Light Drifter is a mesmerizing action-adventure game set in a beautifully crafted pixel art world. Players explore a mysterious, futuristic landscape plagued by an ancient curse, battling enemies and uncovering secrets along the way. With its tight combat mechanics, atmospheric soundtrack, and haunting visuals, Hyper Light Drifter offers a compelling and immersive experience.
4. Celeste
Developer: Maddy Makes Games
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Celeste is a critically acclaimed platformer that tells the story of Madeline, a young woman determined to climb the titular mountain. With its tight controls, challenging levels, and heartfelt narrative about overcoming personal struggles, Celeste offers a deeply rewarding experience. Whether you’re scaling towering peaks or confronting inner demons, Celeste is an indie gem that shouldn’t be missed.
5. Dead Cells
Developer: Motion Twin
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Dead Cells is a rogue-lite action-platformer that combines fast-paced combat with procedural generation to create a thrilling and endlessly replayable experience. Players navigate through challenging levels, battling enemies and collecting loot to improve their abilities. With its responsive controls, addictive gameplay loop, and stylish pixel art visuals, Dead Cells is a must-play for fans of the genre.
6. Axiom Verge 2
Developer: Thomas Happ Games LLC
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC
Axiom Verge 2 is a mesmerizing metroidvania adventure that transports players to a mysterious and interconnected world. As they unravel the secrets of this alien landscape, players will uncover new abilities, solve intricate puzzles, and confront formidable enemies. With its retro-inspired visuals, atmospheric soundtrack, and deep lore, Axiom Verge 2 offers a captivating journey into the unknown.
7. Spiritfarer
Developer: Thunder Lotus Games
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Spiritfarer is a heartwarming management game that follows the journey of Stella, a young woman tasked with guiding spirits to the afterlife. Players will build and customize their own boat, explore a charming world filled with memorable characters, and engage in meaningful conversations as they come to terms with loss and friendship. With its beautiful hand-drawn art style, emotional storytelling, and relaxing gameplay, Spiritfarer is a truly unique indie gem.
8. Undertale
Developer: Toby Fox
Platforms: PS4, PS Vita, Nintendo Switch, PC
Undertale is a quirky and inventive RPG that defies conventions and challenges players to think outside the box. As they journey through the Underground, players will encounter a cast of memorable characters, engage in clever dialogue, and make choices that impact the outcome of the story. With its charming retro-inspired visuals, catchy soundtrack, and unexpected twists, Undertale is a one-of-a-kind indie experience that is not to be missed.
9. Katana ZERO
Developer: Askiisoft
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PC
Katana ZERO is a stylish and adrenaline-fueled action-platformer that puts players in the shoes of a skilled assassin with a mysterious past. With its fast-paced gameplay, time-bending mechanics, and neon-soaked visuals, Katana ZERO offers a thrilling and cinematic experience. As players slice and dice their way through hordes of enemies, they’ll uncover a dark and gripping narrative filled with twists and turns.
10. Outer Wilds
Developer: Mobius Digital
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Outer Wilds is an award-winning exploration game that invites players to embark on a journey through a vast and mysterious solar system. Armed with only a ship, a suit, and a sense of curiosity, players will uncover hidden secrets, solve enigmatic puzzles, and unravel the mysteries of a long-lost civilization. With its dynamic world, mind-bending mechanics, and hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, Outer Wilds offers an unforgettable adventure unlike any other.
