#indie-games

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#game-awards

The Game Awards Should Happen After The Year Is Over, Like Every Other Award Show

Timing significantly impacts a game's chances for nomination at The Game Awards, especially for those released close to the eligibility cut-off.

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes makes its way to PS4 and PS5 on December 3

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes is a complex puzzle game debuting on PlayStation that challenges players with unique riddles and an atmospheric setting.

Day of the Devs livestream will showcase indie titles a day before the Game Awards

The Game Awards will honor industry achievements and feature indie game premieres the day before the main event.

The Game Awards Should Happen After The Year Is Over, Like Every Other Award Show

Timing significantly impacts a game's chances for nomination at The Game Awards, especially for those released close to the eligibility cut-off.

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes makes its way to PS4 and PS5 on December 3

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes is a complex puzzle game debuting on PlayStation that challenges players with unique riddles and an atmospheric setting.

Day of the Devs livestream will showcase indie titles a day before the Game Awards

The Game Awards will honor industry achievements and feature indie game premieres the day before the main event.
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#game-mechanics

Neva, As Told By Steam Reviews

Neva is an indie game that captures attention through its compelling story and art but struggles with combat mechanics and narrative clarity.

The Best Cozy Game Ever Is Half Off On Steam Right Now

Stardew Valley's ongoing success is driven by its flexible gameplay and engaging mechanics, appealing to diverse player preferences.

Neva, As Told By Steam Reviews

Neva is an indie game that captures attention through its compelling story and art but struggles with combat mechanics and narrative clarity.

The Best Cozy Game Ever Is Half Off On Steam Right Now

Stardew Valley's ongoing success is driven by its flexible gameplay and engaging mechanics, appealing to diverse player preferences.
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#game-development

The entire staff of beloved game publisher Annapurna Interactive has reportedly resigned

Annapurna Interactive's entire staff has resigned amidst restructuring efforts to merge gaming with film and TV divisions.

These Are the Best and Worst Games Made by Bethesda

Bethesda Softworks maintains its reputation in gaming amidst challenges from private equity and disappointing AAA titles.

Judero is a psychedelic trip through Scottish folklore

Judero uniquely showcases handcrafted elements and artisan creativity in video game design, enhancing the player's connection to the game's art.
The game's development process emphasizes tactile craftsmanship, reflecting a deeply personal and human approach to video game art.

Indie developers are revitalizing the underappreciated immersive sim

The indie immersive sim genre is thriving, offering player choice and complex environments even after the closure of major studios.

Devolver has a new publishing label for licensed indie games

Devolver Digital's Big Fan Games will create unique adaptations from licensed content, focusing on original indie titles rather than simple marketing tie-ins.

Fans criticise Nintendo's "predatory" Palworld lawsuit

Nintendo sues Palworld over patent infringement due to character design similarities, impacting discussions on indie game development and creative freedom.

The entire staff of beloved game publisher Annapurna Interactive has reportedly resigned

Annapurna Interactive's entire staff has resigned amidst restructuring efforts to merge gaming with film and TV divisions.

These Are the Best and Worst Games Made by Bethesda

Bethesda Softworks maintains its reputation in gaming amidst challenges from private equity and disappointing AAA titles.

Judero is a psychedelic trip through Scottish folklore

Judero uniquely showcases handcrafted elements and artisan creativity in video game design, enhancing the player's connection to the game's art.
The game's development process emphasizes tactile craftsmanship, reflecting a deeply personal and human approach to video game art.

Indie developers are revitalizing the underappreciated immersive sim

The indie immersive sim genre is thriving, offering player choice and complex environments even after the closure of major studios.

Devolver has a new publishing label for licensed indie games

Devolver Digital's Big Fan Games will create unique adaptations from licensed content, focusing on original indie titles rather than simple marketing tie-ins.

Fans criticise Nintendo's "predatory" Palworld lawsuit

Nintendo sues Palworld over patent infringement due to character design similarities, impacting discussions on indie game development and creative freedom.
moregame-development
#game-awards-2024

Game Awards 2024 Winners List: The Nominees Thus Far

The Game Awards 2024 showcase predominantly blockbuster games, with Astro Bot and Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth leading in nominations.

Astro Bot, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Lead The Game Awards 2024 Nominations

Astro Bot and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth lead nominations at The Game Awards 2024, sparking discussion on DLC eligibility for Game of the Year.

Astro Bot and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth lead the 2024 Game Awards nominees

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Baldur's Gate 3 lead with seven nominations in the 2024 Game Awards, indicating their critical acclaim.

Game Awards 2024 Winners List: The Nominees Thus Far

The Game Awards 2024 showcase predominantly blockbuster games, with Astro Bot and Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth leading in nominations.

Astro Bot, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Lead The Game Awards 2024 Nominations

Astro Bot and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth lead nominations at The Game Awards 2024, sparking discussion on DLC eligibility for Game of the Year.

Astro Bot and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth lead the 2024 Game Awards nominees

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Baldur's Gate 3 lead with seven nominations in the 2024 Game Awards, indicating their critical acclaim.
moregame-awards-2024
#video-games

The best games under five hours long

Short games offer a time-efficient way to enjoy quality gaming experiences without a significant time commitment.

The 25 best Nintendo Switch games

The Nintendo Switch is celebrated for its extensive library of must-play exclusives and diverse games.
Recent updates to the games list ensure that players can find exciting new options, including recent releases like Pikmin 4.

Here are all the Game Award nominations for 2024

This year's Game Awards feature notable nominations, with Astro Bot and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth as frontrunners for Game of the Year.

The Biggest Game Releases Of October 2024

October 2024 is set to showcase major game releases, including AAA titles and horror game remakes, enriching the gaming landscape for players.

The first new Game Pass titles for October include Inscryption and Sifu

Xbox Game Pass is adding five new titles in October, expanding its Standard tier offerings.
Mad Streets and Inscryption highlight the diverse genres arriving on Game Pass this month.
Some games are leaving Game Pass soon as licensing ends.

This bizarre "Monkey Island meets Monty Python" Renaissance art game looks amazing

Death of the Reprobate creatively combines comedy and historical art to deliver a uniquely entertaining experience, set for release on November 7.

The best games under five hours long

Short games offer a time-efficient way to enjoy quality gaming experiences without a significant time commitment.

The 25 best Nintendo Switch games

The Nintendo Switch is celebrated for its extensive library of must-play exclusives and diverse games.
Recent updates to the games list ensure that players can find exciting new options, including recent releases like Pikmin 4.

Here are all the Game Award nominations for 2024

This year's Game Awards feature notable nominations, with Astro Bot and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth as frontrunners for Game of the Year.

The Biggest Game Releases Of October 2024

October 2024 is set to showcase major game releases, including AAA titles and horror game remakes, enriching the gaming landscape for players.

The first new Game Pass titles for October include Inscryption and Sifu

Xbox Game Pass is adding five new titles in October, expanding its Standard tier offerings.
Mad Streets and Inscryption highlight the diverse genres arriving on Game Pass this month.
Some games are leaving Game Pass soon as licensing ends.

This bizarre "Monkey Island meets Monty Python" Renaissance art game looks amazing

Death of the Reprobate creatively combines comedy and historical art to deliver a uniquely entertaining experience, set for release on November 7.
morevideo-games
from www.bbc.com
6 days ago

'Amazing showcase' for UK gaming industry cancelled

The cancellation of WASD expo underscores the financial challenges facing the UK gaming industry and its impact on smaller game developers.
#game-deals

The only Black Friday Nintendo Switch game deals worth looking at

Nintendo Switch game deals are already available before Black Friday.
Indie titles often see the biggest discounts during Black Friday sales.
This year offers even better prices on Switch games compared to last year.

Fanatical's Showcase Sale Is Stacked With Awesome PC Game Deals

Fanatical's Showcase Sale features significant discounts on PC games from major publishers and indie titles until October 20.

The only Black Friday Nintendo Switch game deals worth looking at

Nintendo Switch game deals are already available before Black Friday.
Indie titles often see the biggest discounts during Black Friday sales.
This year offers even better prices on Switch games compared to last year.

Fanatical's Showcase Sale Is Stacked With Awesome PC Game Deals

Fanatical's Showcase Sale features significant discounts on PC games from major publishers and indie titles until October 20.
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#game-review

The Plucky Squire is a charming and impressive artistic feat that isn't very fun to play

The Plucky Squire, while visually impressive and enjoyable for younger gamers, ultimately failed to meet heightened expectations.

Steam's Latest Management Sim Is the Chill Strategy Hybrid I Need Right Now

Dungeon Inn offers a unique management sim experience where players run an inn catering to adventurers while managing rival guilds and a dragon's demands.

Steam Just Quietly Released 2023's Most Absurd Racing Game

What The Car? is a hilariously absurd racing game that keeps players engaged with unpredictable levels and innovative gameplay mechanics.

Caravan SandWitch is a frictionless off-road jaunt which would've been better off as a linear experience

Caravan SandWitch aims for narrative-driven exploration but falters due to design limitations and lack of depth.

Spilled Mushrooms is my new Playdate card game addiction

Spilled Mushrooms challenges players with strategic thinking and collaboration, using unique animal traits to gather mushrooms efficiently.

The Plucky Squire is a charming and impressive artistic feat that isn't very fun to play

The Plucky Squire, while visually impressive and enjoyable for younger gamers, ultimately failed to meet heightened expectations.

Steam's Latest Management Sim Is the Chill Strategy Hybrid I Need Right Now

Dungeon Inn offers a unique management sim experience where players run an inn catering to adventurers while managing rival guilds and a dragon's demands.

Steam Just Quietly Released 2023's Most Absurd Racing Game

What The Car? is a hilariously absurd racing game that keeps players engaged with unpredictable levels and innovative gameplay mechanics.

Caravan SandWitch is a frictionless off-road jaunt which would've been better off as a linear experience

Caravan SandWitch aims for narrative-driven exploration but falters due to design limitations and lack of depth.

Spilled Mushrooms is my new Playdate card game addiction

Spilled Mushrooms challenges players with strategic thinking and collaboration, using unique animal traits to gather mushrooms efficiently.
moregame-review
#gaming

When the World Feels Messy, I Turn to Power Wash Simulator

PowerWash Simulator turns cleaning into an unexpectedly enjoyable and immersive gaming experience, appealing through its methodical gameplay and satisfaction of restoration.

Nintendo Switch Is Making a Vampire-Slaying Indie Hit Free Ahead of a Massive DLC Launch

Vampire Survivors is gaining a Castlevania crossover, solidifying its legacy and addressing past criticisms of being a derivative game.

New Steam Demo Showcases The Blend Of Doom, Vampire Survivors, And Parkour That Is Dieseldome: Oil And Blood

Dieseldome presents an alternate history where the Roman Empire thrives with advanced technology, creating a unique gameplay experience.

Mandragora mixes Metroidvania and Soulslike design with a killer 2.5D aesthetic to great effect

Mandragora impresses with its stylish design and engaging combat, establishing a distinct identity in the saturated indie genre.

Hauntii feels the best when you let go

Letting go of conventional gaming expectations enhances enjoyment of Hauntii.

Papers, Please creator just released a new free LCD-style Halloween game

Lucas Pope's Moida Mansion offers a nostalgic yet dynamic gaming experience with unique puzzles and challenges in each playthrough.

When the World Feels Messy, I Turn to Power Wash Simulator

PowerWash Simulator turns cleaning into an unexpectedly enjoyable and immersive gaming experience, appealing through its methodical gameplay and satisfaction of restoration.

Nintendo Switch Is Making a Vampire-Slaying Indie Hit Free Ahead of a Massive DLC Launch

Vampire Survivors is gaining a Castlevania crossover, solidifying its legacy and addressing past criticisms of being a derivative game.

New Steam Demo Showcases The Blend Of Doom, Vampire Survivors, And Parkour That Is Dieseldome: Oil And Blood

Dieseldome presents an alternate history where the Roman Empire thrives with advanced technology, creating a unique gameplay experience.

Mandragora mixes Metroidvania and Soulslike design with a killer 2.5D aesthetic to great effect

Mandragora impresses with its stylish design and engaging combat, establishing a distinct identity in the saturated indie genre.

Hauntii feels the best when you let go

Letting go of conventional gaming expectations enhances enjoyment of Hauntii.

Papers, Please creator just released a new free LCD-style Halloween game

Lucas Pope's Moida Mansion offers a nostalgic yet dynamic gaming experience with unique puzzles and challenges in each playthrough.
moregaming
#annapurna-interactive

Annapurna Interactive team quits causing chaos among partners

Annapurna Interactive faces significant leadership upheaval as its entire staff has resigned after unsuccessful attempts to spin off the studio.

Seven Stellar Indies To Grab During the ID@Xbox Sale

Explore lesser-known indie games during the holiday sales, especially through the Xbox ID@Xbox initiative.

Annapurna Interactive team quits causing chaos among partners

Annapurna Interactive faces significant leadership upheaval as its entire staff has resigned after unsuccessful attempts to spin off the studio.

Seven Stellar Indies To Grab During the ID@Xbox Sale

Explore lesser-known indie games during the holiday sales, especially through the Xbox ID@Xbox initiative.
moreannapurna-interactive
#gaming-news

Game Pass Is Soaring Back To Life This November

Microsoft's latest wave of Game Pass titles includes the highly anticipated Flight Simulator 2024, despite recent criticisms over the service's perceived decline.

Indie classic To the Moon comes to Xbox Series X/S and PS5 October 8

To the Moon will be available on Xbox Series X/S and PS5 on October 8 for $10, alongside a new short episode.

Game Pass Is Soaring Back To Life This November

Microsoft's latest wave of Game Pass titles includes the highly anticipated Flight Simulator 2024, despite recent criticisms over the service's perceived decline.

Indie classic To the Moon comes to Xbox Series X/S and PS5 October 8

To the Moon will be available on Xbox Series X/S and PS5 on October 8 for $10, alongside a new short episode.
moregaming-news

Balatro Update Adds Stardew Valley, Cyberpunk 2077 Crossovers

Balatro has released a free crossover pack featuring popular game-themed card skins, enhancing the gaming experience with optional cosmetics.

How Fear the Spotlight became Blumhouse's first video game

Blumhouse Games unexpectedly discovered and is interested in publishing 'Fear the Spotlight', a compelling indie horror game set in a haunted high school.

This Creepy New Horror Game Unravels A Mystery Using A Cursed Photo Album

Corporeal is a unique horror game using real-life photos and non-linear puzzles to explore a paranormal mystery.
#survival-horror

Steam Just Released Sci-Fi RPGs and Chill Puzzles in These 10 Must-Play Free Demos

Steam Next Fest offers PC gamers the chance to play demos of upcoming games, many of which can be completed in under an hour.

Heartworm will have you questioning your sanity this Steam Next Fest

Heartworm effectively combines a haunting narrative with retro aesthetics, immersing players in a unique survival-horror experience with minimal guidance.

The Perfect Game For Halloween Just Released On Nintendo Switch

Crow Country offers a horror game experience suitable for newcomers, with a cute aesthetic and approachable gameplay.

Everything You Need To Know About Silent Hill 2-Inspired Horror Hollowbody

Hollowbody is an indie survival horror that captures the essence of late '90s games while offering unique challenges in resource management.

Steam Just Released Sci-Fi RPGs and Chill Puzzles in These 10 Must-Play Free Demos

Steam Next Fest offers PC gamers the chance to play demos of upcoming games, many of which can be completed in under an hour.

Heartworm will have you questioning your sanity this Steam Next Fest

Heartworm effectively combines a haunting narrative with retro aesthetics, immersing players in a unique survival-horror experience with minimal guidance.

The Perfect Game For Halloween Just Released On Nintendo Switch

Crow Country offers a horror game experience suitable for newcomers, with a cute aesthetic and approachable gameplay.

Everything You Need To Know About Silent Hill 2-Inspired Horror Hollowbody

Hollowbody is an indie survival horror that captures the essence of late '90s games while offering unique challenges in resource management.
moresurvival-horror
#game-recommendations

Two Of 2024's Best Indies Are On Sale During This Steam Event

Fellow Traveller is a key player in the indie game industry, known for publishing acclaimed titles and hosting engaging events.

Not sure what game to play? Leave a comment, we'll help

Polygon offers personalized game recommendations across various genres and platforms.
An open thread aims to assist readers in finding new games based on their preferences.
Engagement is encouraged during a specified time for tailored recommendations.

Two Of 2024's Best Indies Are On Sale During This Steam Event

Fellow Traveller is a key player in the indie game industry, known for publishing acclaimed titles and hosting engaging events.

Not sure what game to play? Leave a comment, we'll help

Polygon offers personalized game recommendations across various genres and platforms.
An open thread aims to assist readers in finding new games based on their preferences.
Engagement is encouraged during a specified time for tailored recommendations.
moregame-recommendations
#steam-next-fest

Create gorgeous miniature Japanese landscapes in soothing Sudoku-like puzzle Nurikabe World, playable at October's Steam Next Fest

Puzzle games like Nurikabe World are often overlooked in the gaming media, despite their engaging and relaxing nature.

9 Demos You Need To Play During This Month's Steam Next Fest

Steam Next Fest is a key platform for discovering upcoming indie games through playable demos.

Create gorgeous miniature Japanese landscapes in soothing Sudoku-like puzzle Nurikabe World, playable at October's Steam Next Fest

Puzzle games like Nurikabe World are often overlooked in the gaming media, despite their engaging and relaxing nature.

9 Demos You Need To Play During This Month's Steam Next Fest

Steam Next Fest is a key platform for discovering upcoming indie games through playable demos.
moresteam-next-fest
#game-design

One Of The Best Metroidvanias Of The Past Decade Is A Bargain On Steam Right Now

Dead Cells revitalizes the Metroidvania genre by integrating roguelike mechanics, making each gameplay experience both familiar and uniquely challenging.

5 Years Ago, a Chaotic Game Came Out of Nowhere and Took the World By Storm

Untitled Goose Game leveraged its unique premise of playing as a chaotic goose to captivate audiences, defying typical gaming narratives.

UFO 50 review a galaxy of 80s games brought brilliantly back to the future

UFO 50 is an ambitious indie game collection celebrating 50 uniquely modernized retro-style games, rich in nostalgia and creativity.

UFO 50 is the best retro-gaming homage I've ever played

UFO 50 is a love letter to retro gaming, offering a well-crafted homage with 50 diverse and inventive games.

Wild Bastards Review - Buck Around And Find Out

Roguelite genre still thrives if games like Wild Bastards continue to innovate and provide engaging experiences, defying player fatigue.

Steam Just Added the Most Inventive Dungeon-Crawler of the Year

Pyrene innovatively blends deckbuilding and dungeon-crawling mechanics, creating a unique gaming experience that reinvigorates the genre.

One Of The Best Metroidvanias Of The Past Decade Is A Bargain On Steam Right Now

Dead Cells revitalizes the Metroidvania genre by integrating roguelike mechanics, making each gameplay experience both familiar and uniquely challenging.

5 Years Ago, a Chaotic Game Came Out of Nowhere and Took the World By Storm

Untitled Goose Game leveraged its unique premise of playing as a chaotic goose to captivate audiences, defying typical gaming narratives.

UFO 50 review a galaxy of 80s games brought brilliantly back to the future

UFO 50 is an ambitious indie game collection celebrating 50 uniquely modernized retro-style games, rich in nostalgia and creativity.

UFO 50 is the best retro-gaming homage I've ever played

UFO 50 is a love letter to retro gaming, offering a well-crafted homage with 50 diverse and inventive games.

Wild Bastards Review - Buck Around And Find Out

Roguelite genre still thrives if games like Wild Bastards continue to innovate and provide engaging experiences, defying player fatigue.

Steam Just Added the Most Inventive Dungeon-Crawler of the Year

Pyrene innovatively blends deckbuilding and dungeon-crawling mechanics, creating a unique gaming experience that reinvigorates the genre.
moregame-design

Former Humble Games staff form new publisher that will work with their old company

Good Games Group aims to support indie games while partnering with its former parent company, Humble Games.
CEO Alan Patmore emphasizes collaboration with indie developers and a vision for the future.

Astro Bot, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth top Golden Joystick Awards nominees

The competition for Game of the Year is diverse, with both indie and AAA games sharing the spotlight.

Don't Miss This Delightful Road Trip Adventure On Game Pass

Open Roads explores generational trauma through family secrets revealed during a road trip, focusing on the relationships among Tess, her mother Opal, and her grandmother.
from Kotaku
1 month ago

34 Games Coming Out In October That We Can't Wait To Check Out

October 2024 features a mix of game releases that highlight the evolution of the gaming calendar beyond just blockbuster titles.

The 10 best gaming fonts

Choosing the right game font enhances the visual appeal and atmosphere of indie games and gaming-related designs.

Hades' Developer's Earlier Games, Including Bastion, Are On Sale

Supergiant Games' earlier titles, Bastion, Transistor, and Pyre, exemplify the company's creative range and innovative storytelling.

Steam Hit Thronefall Gets Full-Version Release Date And Switch Port

Thronefall officially releases on October 11, 2023, also debuting on Nintendo Switch after a successful Early Access period.

Get hundreds of indie TTRPGs for just $10 at itch.io and support accessible gaming

The $10 TTRPGS bundle supports accessible gaming initiatives while showcasing an extensive collection of indie tabletop RPGs.
#palworld

UPDATE: It's actually happening: Palworld developer Pocketpair is being sued by Nintendo and The Pokemon Company

Pocketpair faces a patent infringement lawsuit by Nintendo and The Pokémon Company regarding its game Palworld.

Nintendo Is Suing 'Palworld' Creator Pocketpair

Nintendo's legal action against Palworld centers on patent infringement related to game mechanics, not copyright issues.
Pocketpair is committed to enhancing Palworld despite the lawsuit.

UPDATE: It's actually happening: Palworld developer Pocketpair is being sued by Nintendo and The Pokemon Company

Pocketpair faces a patent infringement lawsuit by Nintendo and The Pokémon Company regarding its game Palworld.

Nintendo Is Suing 'Palworld' Creator Pocketpair

Nintendo's legal action against Palworld centers on patent infringement related to game mechanics, not copyright issues.
Pocketpair is committed to enhancing Palworld despite the lawsuit.
morepalworld

Not sure what game to play? Leave a comment, we'll help

Polygon excels in recommending diverse, exciting games that cater to various preferences, from indie titles to deep, immersive experiences.

The entire SteamWorld library, including SteamWorld Heist 2, is on sale at GOG

SteamWorld Heist 2 offers a multi-classing experience with engaging gameplay and is part of a larger, discounted collection of games.

The Plucky Squire, Chernobylite and More Join PS Plus Game Catalog in September

The September PS Plus Game Catalog features a diverse lineup, including the day-one release, The Plucky Squire and other engaging indie titles.

This Month's PS Plus Freebies Include Plucky Squire And Uh...Mister Mosquito

Mister Mosquito, a quirky PS2 game, is making a comeback on PS4 and PS5, highlighting PlayStation's variety in its game offerings for subscribers.
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