2018 proved to be a successful year for indie games, offering a wide range of options to cater to different preferences. This is why the “Best Indie Game” category in annual awards often sparks heated debates. With numerous outstanding indie games released each year, everyone has their own favorites and unique experiences. Let’s take a look at some of the finest indie games that graced that year. (in no particular order)
If you think we left out an indie game, please let us know in the suggestions channel on Discord!
1: Celeste
Embark on an adventure alongside Madeline as she faces her personal struggles while ascending Celeste Mountain. This captivating platformer, crafted by the talented developers of TowerFall, offers a thrilling and challenging experience. Navigate through countless meticulously designed obstacles, unravel elusive secrets, and uncover the enigmatic tale that shrouds the mountain’s depths.
With intuitive controls that involve jumping, air-dashing, and climbing, the game offers simplicity and accessibility. However, beneath this simplicity lies a hidden complexity that requires mastery to fully appreciate. Each death serves as a valuable lesson in this challenging journey. The game’s lightning-fast respawns ensure that you can continue climbing without delay as you unravel the enigmas of the mountain and confront its numerous dangers.
2: Dead Cells
Dead Cells is an action-platformer that takes inspiration from rogue-lite and metroidvania games. In this 2D souls-lite combat adventure, you will navigate through a vast and constantly evolving castle. The challenge lies in defeating the keepers of the castle without any checkpoints. It’s all about the cycle of killing, dying, and learning from your mistakes. Exploring the surroundings becomes more enticing as you unlock access to different levels of the island, creating an interconnected experience.
3: GRIS
Gris, a young girl filled with hope, finds herself lost within her own realm, grappling with a distressing event in her existence. Her voyage through anguish is symbolized by her attire, which bestows upon her fresh capabilities to navigate through the dimmed version of reality she inhabits. As the narrative unfolds, Gris undergoes emotional growth and perceives her world from a different perspective, unveiling previously undiscovered avenues to explore with the aid of these newfound abilities.
GRIS offers players a tranquil and evocative journey devoid of peril, annoyance, or mortality. Gamers will have the opportunity to delve into an intricately crafted universe that springs to life through exquisite artwork, intricate animation, and a refined original soundtrack. As players progress, they will encounter simple puzzles, platforming sections, and optional skill-based trials that gradually unveil additional realms within Gris’s realm.
4: Into the Breach
In this turn-based strategy game created by the developers of FTL, the existence of humanity is at risk due to enormous creatures that are reproducing underground. To combat this extraterrestrial menace, you will take command of advanced mechs from the future. Each mission to protect our world will present a unique challenge generated randomly. Your skills and tactics will determine the fate of humanity in this thrilling battle for survival against overwhelming odds.
5: The Messenger
In the face of a demonic army attacking his village, a youthful ninja embarks on a perilous journey through an accursed realm to deliver a crucial scroll essential for his clan’s survival. Initially presenting as a traditional action platformer, the story swiftly evolves into an expansive and thrilling time-traveling quest brimming with unexpected twists and comedic moments.
6: Fe
In Fe, a fresh kind of platform adventure awaits you. Here, the story unfolds without any guidance, allowing you to uncover it on your own. This captivating narrative is conveyed wordlessly through the various revelations you encounter while playing the game. Traverse through a somber Nordic forest by running, climbing, and gliding effortlessly. Immerse yourself in its dynamic ecosystem teeming with enigmatic creatures and hidden treasures. Embark on this extraordinary journey as Fe and unlock a world that will captivate your senses indefinitely.
7: Return of the Obra Dinn
The Return of Obra Dinn is an immersive adventure that combines mystery, exploration, and logical reasoning. In 1802, the Obra Dinn, a trading vessel, departed from London bound for the Orient carrying a cargo of more than 200 tons. After six months had passed without reaching its expected meeting place at the Cape of Good Hope, it was officially declared as lost at sea.
8: BELOW
BELOW is divided by critics and fans alike. However, we think it deserves to be here. BELOW is an immersive terrarium that embraces the elements of unpredictability, enigma, and mortality. Discover a networked underworld teeming with clever animals, lethal snares, and the constant surveillance of an enigmatic entity. Navigate through the dangers of The Depths and uncover the hidden secrets that lie beneath.
9: Book of Demons
Book of Demons is an action game where players have the power to determine the duration of their quests. Instead of traditional weapons, players utilize magic cards to defeat hordes of enemies lurking in the depths of the ancient cathedral. The ultimate goal is to rescue Paperverse from the evil grip of the Archdemon.