The year 2023 witnessed an abundance of imaginative accomplishments from independent video game developers. These creators produced a wide variety of games that pushed the boundaries in terms of genres and themes, effectively challenging the supremacy of big-budget titles. In this enumeration, we celebrate the top indie games that made a lasting impression in 2023. These games showcased an eclectic mix of genres, art styles, and gameplay experiences that left a significant impact on players throughout the year.
If you think we left out an indie game, please let us know in the suggestions channel on Discord!
1: Chants of Sennaar
Chants of Sennaar is a captivating journey through a vibrant and lyrical environment, drawing inspiration from the legendary tale of Babel, where humanity has lost touch with its history. Traverse the boundless staircases of an extraordinary maze, revealing a foreboding revelation and unraveling the enigmas within this mesmerizing realm where ancient tongues serve as both barrier and solution.
2: COCOON
COCOON is the latest creation from Jeppe Carlsen, renowned for his work as the lead gameplay designer of LIMBO and INSIDE.
COCOON presents a fresh perspective on the puzzle adventure category, featuring worlds encapsulated in portable orbs. Embrace the central gameplay mechanic of traversing between these worlds, utilizing their combination, manipulation, and rearrangement to conquer complex puzzles.
3: DAVE THE DIVER
DAVE THE DIVER, is a laid-back adventure RPG that takes you on an underwater journey. Dive into the depths of the ocean to explore its wonders and engage in exciting fishing activities by day. As night falls, switch gears and take on the challenge of managing a sushi restaurant alongside Dave and his eccentric companions. Together, embark on a quest to unravel the enigmatic mysteries concealed within the fabled Blue Hole.
4: Pizza Tower
Pizza Tower is an exciting 2D platformer that draws inspiration from the popular Wario Land games. The game focuses on fast-paced movement, exploration, and achieving high scores. With its vibrant pixel art reminiscent of ’90s cartoons and a lively soundtrack, Pizza Tower offers a thrilling gaming experience.
5: Bramble: The Mountain King
Bramble The Mountain King is a grim adventure through a realm influenced by eerie Nordic legends. Embark on the mission to save your sister, venturing into the enchanting yet treacherous lands of Bramble. Navigate through its mystifying terrain and confront the grotesque beings that inhabit it in order to survive. This harrowing adventure promises both beauty and peril at every turn.
6: Sea of Stars
Sea of Stars is an RPG with turn-based gameplay. The game revolves around two protagonists, referred to as Children of the Solstice, who possess unique abilities linked to celestial bodies. By harnessing the powers derived from the sun and moon, they are able to wield Eclipse Magic – a formidable force indispensable in their battle against grotesque creatures created by The Fleshmancer, an infamous alchemist characterized by his malevolent intentions.
7: Jusant
Jusant is an action-puzzle climbing game that takes players on a tranquil voyage to conquer a towering structure. Become a master of your climbing equipment and carefully monitor your stamina gauge to expertly maneuver through this enigmatic and ever-shifting tower. As you ascend further and refine your abilities, it will be crucial to determine the most effective ways to utilize the resources available to reach your desired destinations.
8: Teslagrad 2
Teslagrad 2 is the sequel to the popular physics-based game that revolves around the use of electromagnetic powers for survival. Lumina, an inexperienced Teslamancer, becomes marooned when her airship plummets in Wyrmheim, an isolated and perilous region situated to the North. Join Lumina on a hazardous journey as she explores a colossal deserted tower that overlooks a valley next to the fjords, all in an effort to return Lumina safely home to her loved ones.
9: DREDGE
DREDGE is an eerie fishing game where you set out on a solo adventure. Take the helm of your fishing trawler and embark on a journey to discover a cluster of isolated islands and their mysterious depths. Uncover the secrets that lie beneath by selling your catch to the locals and undertaking quests that shed light on each area’s troubled history. Upgrade your boat with top-of-the-line equipment, enabling you to explore deep-sea trenches and venture into distant lands. However, be mindful of time as you navigate through uncharted territory, for there may be unsettling surprises awaiting in the darkness.