Although 2020 was an unpredictable year for everyone, it brought forth numerous remarkable video game releases that offered players captivating worlds and narratives to immerse themselves in. Alongside massive, high-budget titles like Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Ghost of Tsushima, the indie game scene also flourished. The year saw an abundance of fresh, enjoyable, and distinctive indie games that sometimes got lost in the shuffle. Here, we highlight some indie games that stood out in 2020. (in no particular order)
If you think we left out an indie game, please let us know in the suggestions channel on Discord!
1: Spiritfarer
Spiritfarer® is a heartwarming game that revolves around the concept of death. As the player, you assume the role of Stella, the ferry captain for the departed souls known as Spiritfarers. Your objective is to construct a boat to explore the vast world, form bonds with spirits, and provide them with the care they need before guiding them to the afterlife. Along your journey, you’ll engage in various activities such as farming, mining, fishing, harvesting, cooking, and crafting, all while traversing mystical waters. You can even embark on this adventure with a friend, taking on the role of Daffodil, the cat, in cooperative gameplay. This game offers a unique opportunity to spend tranquil and meaningful moments with your spirit passengers, creating everlasting memories. Ultimately, it teaches you the art of bidding farewell to your beloved friends. As you progress, you’ll ponder what legacy you will leave behind.
2: Hades
Hades is an exceptional rogue-like dungeon crawler that brings together the standout features of Supergiant’s highly praised games. It offers the thrilling, fast-paced action found in Bastion, the immersive atmosphere and complexity of Transistor, and the captivating storytelling found in Pyre.
3: Golf with Your Friends
Golf With Your Friends is a fun and exciting multiplayer mini golf game that can be played by up to 12 players. With a combination of public and player servers, you can enjoy playing with your friends no matter where they are located.
4: Risk of Rain 2
Explore more than twelve meticulously crafted environments, each teeming with formidable creatures and colossal adversaries determined to end your existence. Battle your way to the ultimate boss and make your daring escape, or test your endurance by embarking on an endless quest to see how long you can stay alive. Experience an innovative scaling system that ensures both you and your enemies progressively grow in strength throughout the game.
5: Noita
Convergence: A League of Legends Story (stylized as CONV/RGENCE) is an action-platformer game inspired by classics like Castlevania or Metroid. The game follows the adventures of the courageous Ekko, an inventor known for his genius creations such as time-travel devices and shoes that allow him to run on walls. However, it is Ekko’s heart of gold that is his greatest power.
6: Moving Out
Experience the hilarity of Moving Out, a physics-based moving simulator that adds a whole new dimension to “couch co-op”! Embark on a thrilling furniture-filled journey as a certified Furniture Arrangement & Relocation Technician, tackling moving tasks throughout the bustling town of Packmore. Get ready for an exciting career in the world of furniture!
7: Carto
Carto is an enchanting game that combines an exciting adventure with a one-of-a-kind puzzle mechanic that alters the world. You can utilize this ability to discover enchanting lands, assist a delightful group of individuals, and lead Carto on her quest to reunite with her loved ones.
8: Phasmophobia
Phasmophobia is a multiplayer online game that combines elements of psychological horror and cooperative gameplay. The game revolves around a surge in paranormal activity, and it is your responsibility, along with your team, to utilize various ghost-hunting equipment to collect as much evidence as possible.
9: Spelunky 2
Spelunky 2 takes the foundation of the original game, which was loved for its unpredictable challenges, and expands upon it to create an even more exciting and engaging experience. This new installment offers a vast and thrilling adventure that will captivate both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Join a fresh group of adventurers as they embark on a quest to uncover riches and reunite with their loved ones on the Moon.