The Top 50 Indie Games (That You Simply Must Play) 

This took an age to make... So, what'd I miss?

There is only 1 game that still effects me emotionally when I hear its music, see a screen grab, or anyone mention the name. Outer Wilds is completely profound and perfect.

Entering City of Tears for the first time in Hollow Knight, and the quest of the Moki family in Ori and the Will of the Wisps are two of the most emotional moments I've ever experienced in any game.

Outer Wilds is one of the most perfect gaming experiences of my entire 44 years on this planet. Words cannot simply describe what a masterpiece it is. You HAVE to experience it. Seriously, if you're a gamer, you NEED to drop everything and experience it. Go in blind, and only look up clues if you're absolutely stumped. It's a game that will have you sitting through the entire credits, and even after the game is finished. Just sitting there thinking about what it all means, and how pertinent it is to our lives, and our universe. GO PLAY IT NOW.

I lost my mom a few years ago and within a year my stepdad passed as well. I was a wreck but eventually got back into the rhythm of a normal life. But I absolutely hadn’t dealt with it fully. I grabbed Gris and Spiritfarer as they were both recommended to me by a close friend, who probably knew I needed to play them. I can tell you that those 2 games helped me more than a lot of forms therapy ever did. I don’t know if it was the timing or the games themselves but Spiritfarer especially broke me. Maybe it was because it wasn’t expected as I didn’t know much about them beforehand or maybe because the games made the subject objective and approachable, I don’t fully know. But those 2 games did so much to help me see their losses in a new way that was much more positive and be able to accept and cope with their absences. I’ll forever be grateful for the developers of those 2 games for beautifully bringing to life a really tough process.

Alright you convinced me. I'll finally pick up Outer Wilds. This game keeps popping up everywhere. Phenomenal video by the way. Subbed

Dude, mad respect. Often times, people don't realize how difficult it is to write a script for videos of this nature without using the same words/phrases over and over again. The are only so many adjectives/metaphors to pull from in the English language, particular gaming centric ones. Yet you managed to use the vast majority of them in a creative way that meshed perfectly with the context of said game... all while remaining coherent and not forced. I'm struggling with properly saying what I mean, but I think/hope it's getting across. Regardless, you've earned a sub from me based on this video alone 🏅 (first one... haven't seen any of the others, but I will) Again, mad respect. You're a master at your craft.

ROCK AND STONE

This was so well done. It's always a treat when you see a video like this come out from a channel with less than 10k subs. Keep it up man

I've only got one thing to add to this genuinely amazing list of games. Brutal orchestra. It's just too great to be true and it has great roguelike strategy mechanics and a lovely story to it. That's without mentioning the unspeakable horrors you'll see at every corner of the game too.

This is an AMAZING list. You hit some of my all time favors (Outer Wilds soundtrack gives me full body chills) and a lot of the games I've been eyeballing for a long time.

You're really good bro. I enjoy your little clever monologues as you explain these titles and most importantly you make me interested in the games. You have a new subscriber

Not only is this list so damn good, the whole script is written so marvelously it's like music to my ears ❤

I've just started Outer Wild with my partner and OMG how is this game an indie game. I savouring every moment. The list is awesome btw, there's a little bit of every style for all gamers out there - I picked my next game, thank you ❤.

Currently on my 3rd playthrough of Lies of P, and it's amazing. I can't believe such a huge and full game came from such a company/group of devs.

YESSS MORE OUTER WILDS LOVE!! Seriously nothing ever comes to close to the feeling of playing Outer Wilds and "getting it". Tears, joy, shock. Everything. I also didn't realize how many games I have played on this list, so thank heavens I have good taste. But seriously, anyone that hasn't play Outer Wilds. Play it. If it doesn't click. Put it down for a bit. Watch a spoiler free review of someone gushing about it. Try it again. Life changing game. Great video mate.

Got this video randomly recommended to me, and honestly I agree with this list, and I haven't played Outer Wilds so you got me to purchase it, excited to play it :D

Amazing video, you don’t only describe the games but also share with us what they made you feel/experience. Subscribed! PS. You should play Darkwood.

Absolutely amazed that you mentioned transistor. You could just stop playing it just to sit and listen to that game. Great list overall.

Absolutely amazing list. Well done for putting it together so well. I knew almost all of them and agree with your list mostly. For me, most notable misses are The Witness and Fez.

when i watch a youtube video i rarely think about how much work it must have been for the creator, but i definitely did with this one. and i really appreciate it.

A great list, and you've given me some games to get in the Winter sale. Another one I love is Unbound:Worlds Apart. Incredibly tough, annoying as hell, yet strangely satisfying.

I love that basically all you have to say about Getting Over It is that it's designed to piss people off and that it's one of the games you've ever *completed.* I feel like the fact that you said "completed" instead of "played" was very low-key deliberate.

Your writing, taste and commentary is aces. Subbed!

Soma is a masterpiece! So glad you mentioned it. Waiting for it to become a movie or a mini-series... or a sequel.

What a great list! I too play a crazy amount of games. I knew about all of these games and I have played about 90% of them. I don't think you missed anything, but there are a few I would love to add (not in any order as that would be too hard). I would love to know if you played any of these and agree that they are worthy of the list. 1. Gorogoa - this is hands down my favorite puzzle game of all time. Not too long, but such an amazing experience you will never forget it. 2. Chants of Sennaar - puzzle game that focuses on the use and understanding of language. Top notch. 3. Neon White - action parkour. Very unique and fast pace game that is, at heart, actually an action puzzle game. A must play 4. Dave the Diver - some would say this is not an indie game, but it definitely has an indie feel and it is an amazing blend of undersea progressive exploration and sushi bar sim. It sounds weird but it works. 5. Inscryption - Creepy card battler that turns into soooo much more. 6. Bastion - You mentioned Transistor, but I think that the narrative and style of Bastion makes it one of the best from that studio as well. 7. Noita - if you like Terraria, you will also appreciate this game as it is similar, but adds some very interesting environmental; and physical reactions in the world. 8. Monument Valley I and II - these are short and simple puzzle games that rely on Escher like visuals to solve the puzzles 9. Far - this is a beautiful side scrolling story puzzle game that is both fun and stunning 10. Into the Breach - this is a turn based tactics game on small bite sized maps. Elegantly simple yet VERY challenging. 11. Loop Hero - this is a roguelight with an amazing premise and game play loop that is addictive and difficult to describe. It is a fight to cling to reality itself as you populate your loop journey with "cards" that both help and hinder you. An absolute must. 12. Rain World - this is a BRUTAL game of trying to survive in a world that you only learn through death over and over again. If you can handle the unforgiving nature of the game it is VERY worth it. 13. Potion Craft - a relaxing game with with interesting mechanics and a quirky story. There are about 50 or so more but I think I have listed too many already 😀

MAKE ANOTHER ONE!!! great video though phizzi great taste, keep it up!❤

Played a bunch of them, but Spiritfarer and death's Doors ?! This ones will have my heart forever. Added some new ones to my wish list, thank you so much ❤️

Now that's what I call a great list. All the games I've already played were summarized beautifully, and every single one i haven't played yet was described with such love and enthusiasm that my Steam wishlist has just expanded a considerable amount

What a list - fond memories and more gems for me to discover. I would definitely add Lost Ember though. If you haven't played it, its a beautiful soothing setting in which you can "become" several different animals with different abilities each, while you follow a fairly slow but enthralling and deeply moving story and the soundtrack is just *chef's kiss*.

Thanks for all of those great recommandations !

That was a really good list, it actually got me to put a few of these games on my wishlist, and also I was really happy to see my two favorite indie games, Cuphead and Hades, so high up.

The outer wilds has flown relatively under my radar but now it’s like all over the place and I’ve just started playing it. So I’m very excited to finish it

SOMA is a game I don't hear much about these days, so I'm glad to see it high up on your list. It's my "outer wilds".

This is a great list. I really do get the impression you personally spent quite a bit of time exploring each title listed. No mean feat. Subbed.

Outer Wilds fans are so desperate to play it again they'll watch playthroughs just to feel the faintest spark of magic their original playthrough had. I know this because I am one. Here's a couple for Outer Wilds enjoyers. Do NOT watch if you've never played the game. Seriously. Pointcrow: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-YN1t1zAWQ_c.html SovietWomble: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-xdLnsslkcaE.html Joseph Anderson: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-1QAmJYWbFhQ.html Brian David Gilbert: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-PNnEMDG6WQI.html About Oliver: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-Va6Izbo0Evs.html

I would maybe put The witness or Inscryption somewhere but i have to say this list has everything and i think most of them range from pretty good to goddamn masterpieces so i have 0 complaints

Nice Narration, exciting voice. And brother, you definitely know your stuff. I'm just sad you can't make more videos. Keep up the good stuff. ❤

Thanks for this list, bro. You absolutely deserve a sub.

absolutely loved the video hope you bring more indie games list in future

After having finished outer wilds I had searched for a game that would give me similar vibes. This way I have discovered Twelve Minutes and The Forgotten City. Both based on the premise of the time loop. Especially the second one I found engaging on a emotional and intellectual level similar to Outer Wilds, but it remains strangely unknown and underappreciated.

cocoon broke my mind, how this game can be so powerful, beautiful and so memorable ?! one of the best puzzle games EVER i mean EVER

Thanks for pointing me to outer wilds! It has been an amazing experience and it worked exactly as you proposed. I agreed with the greatness of the other games and hence gave it a go :) .

This video is the first of yours I have seen. I just stopped by to say: hi, yes, I'm one of those people who agreed with your list and also has not yet played Outer Wilds. I have had my eyes on it for a long time, but in the midst of all the great games coming out recently, I had almost forgotten about it. Congratulations, mission accomplished: the next time I buy a new game, it will be Outer Wilds.

I first discovered Outer Wilds during the pandemic and it changed my life not even joking. It’s the first game I recommend to all my friends and I’m so glad I’m seeing it more and more on social media, top 100 lists and so on

The video is great! You really made me interested in many games on this list, so I’d love to try them as soon as possible. Moreover, outer wilds is mine favorite game of all time as well. I played it almost 2 years ago and I still think about it regularly, still wish that I could relive this adventure again, as it was one of the greatest experiences related to media in my whole lifetime. Unmatched masterpiece that everyone should at least try.

Very nice video. Thank you for sharing your list! I’d recommend Katana Zero and the Rusty Lake series too, I think they worth places in top 50 (at least in mine).

This list is just what I was looking for. Keep up the good work!

Outer Wilds, Hollow Knight, and Subnautica are all incredible. Your video makes me want to explore games!

This is an unfathomably high quality video. Amazing work.

Great video with great choices, you've got a new subscriber!

Damn, no Shovel Knight or Undertale breaks my heart, but Outer Wilds and Hollow Knight at the top help make up for it.

Undertale ? Stardew valley ?

you have most of my favorite games on this list, good work :)

Awesome list! What a work. Thanks for the suggestion.

I have outer wilds but I can’t play it. I never know what to do and it seems very overwhelming. I almost feel forced to play it because of how much I want to play it.

Great list, and totally agree on Outer Wilds. I would love to completely forget it to experience it again.

This video is enlightening. I hoped it was double long. Thank you. I must find a way to save this game list. I know maybe 10 of this games, not more. Thank you again.

Glad to see someone who has played so many indies. Though this list seems like a "top 50 most well-known indies!" Just missing maybe Shovel Knight and Stardew Valley. I hope that in your future of indie gaming you find that tiny little gem that sparkles just for you!

omg what a comprehensive list!!!

Fantastic list and cannot agree more with the #1 spot ❤

What an absolutely phenomonal list!

I’ve watched many lists about indie games on RU-vid (many many many lists) This is by far the best video on indie games. Period.

thank you for making this list. its helping me explore new games a lot easier. many games i forgot about here too that im needing to replay now that i have a pc.

great video mate!

great video i subbed cant wait to watch more

I agree 100% with your list. Wonderful work.

Here to add in some of my personal favourites: (You already got a lot of mine so I’m gonna add some I think deserve recognition) 1. A short hike 2. Road 96 3. Unravel 1&2 4. Kena bridge of spirits 5. Abzu

You have earned yourself a sub, good sir. Amazing video! I don't think Outer Wilds is for me, but I'll give it a try. Thanks!

This was really good (I've played and loved a lot here, but I also haven't played too many things) and I will get Outer Wild soon since it's finally on Switch now, I'm just waiting till Christmas vacation where I have more time than now.

I thoroughly enjoyed this. ✊💯

This was a great video, thank you sk much for introducing me to loads of amazing games

excellent list! well-curated and well-presented. i would only add Gorogoa and Into the Breach, both among my all-time favorites.

Great video, gives me some great game recommendations to check out.

Great list! Definitely seems to skew towards more recent releases, but I think I also find myself rating these newer titles highly as well :D

This is a really good list. You have good taste in your games. I literally have every single game on this list aside from 2. And I'm going to get them when I get paid. (Just because if the other recommendations you've provided are this in tune with what I love, then I'm sure I will love "They are Billions" and "Death and Taxes". Those are the only two I don't currently have. I could spend pages and pages professing my love for most of these games. They are all so very good. I love your emphasis on Outer Wilds. That game is more than just a game, but it's a damn experience. Not to take away from others on the list, but god damn, the game is genius. Disco Elysium is genius as well. Oh nevermind, If I start talking about some of these games, I'll end up writing this reply through the night. I just want to emphasize that for those who haven't played any of these games, they are worth your time. The only change I'd make is that Hades is better than Transistor. Made by the same devs, Hades is a more recent game. And Transistor is good. Don't get me wrong. But Hades is one of the best games ever made. And it's even more addictive than games like Neon White or Slay the Spire. Ugh, okay I'm going to force myself to stop now. Thanks for the great list!

By chance (or probably because these are the best and most known ones) the only games I have played from your list are your top 4, which are in their own way excellent games that anyone should play. - Dysco Elysium: The last part of the game I was super anxious not to make decisions that would hurt or disappoint Kim! His is one of the best side characters of any game. So many confusing, funny, and weird things happen in this game! - Hades: I am not that good with roguelike games, but this one was so great for me. The game systems, the story, the set up, everything is so good! - Hollow knight: To be honest, this is my least favorite from the 4, but only because I found some bosses to be incredible difficult. I got frustrated many times with some of them. However, the rest is just amazing. - Outer wilds: When I opened your video I was extremely sure that this would be in the top. However, checking the chapters of the video I didnt see it. I just thought wft is happening to this dude, he knows nothing.. but then, I heard the banjo! Best indie game ever. The soundtrack still gives me goose bumps. I never played a game so satisfying, full of mystery and that made me feel so many emotions. Amazing list!

to the moon is probably my favorite story in any game. fell in love after playing it completely blind one day.

Banjos make me sob like a baby now, and I got so emotional when I played Outer Wilds

Great list. Thanks!

Nice list. Thanks.

Nice video dude!!

Brilliant vid. Highly recommend adding Neon White to your backlog too. Unless you played it and its just not in your top 50

FTL is my favourite indie game of all time. Very simple, but absurdly fun.

Great commentary!! I subscribed

Great list. I agree to many of them. A few I havn´t played yet. I´d absolutely put Undertale or Pathologic into the list. By the way I really recommend this years "A Highland Song".

Furi mentioned, let’s gooooo!! Fantastic list of games overall! One recommendation I want to make is a game called Darkwood, a survival horror that is unlike most of the other horror games.

Great list! Disco Elysium, Outer Wilds and Life is Strange are my favourite games. I would also recommend Undertale and The Forgotten City.

hollow knight has been my favourite game of all time for almost 4 years now, it means so much to me and i hope that never changes. I'm so honoured that we get to experience these pieces of art

Loved to hear your thoughts on these games. With the state AAA is in I wouldn't be surprised if there is another surge in indie popularity. I'm a big fan of zombie games myself, and set out to make my own. I have a demo up on Steam now, it's called Barricade. It would be so cool to get feedback on it from you and the community. Keep up the good work that you do. Cheers!

Incredible video! Your script writing is amazing. Although I noticed undertale didn't quite make the cut, just in case you haven't played it yet... PLEASE do!

Thank god you had disco on here! One of my favs all time

Awesome list, I have a large backlog of games now :D Hades doesn't have it's own chapter in the video btw

My favorite indie game is Submachine! ❤ Wow, great list! Many games I didn't know about!

Firewatch is one of the few games that still gives me explosive diarrhea every time I replay it. Great video!

The lack of Inscryption is mindboggling, apart from that, great list! Will try a bunch of them! Also, Outer Wilds is king :)

what a brilliant video. thank you

Great list. Outer Wilds has a VR Mod and it is awesome! If you can play it that way -DO IT

Another indie gem of a game that has flown under the radar this year is Pleh! It’s a free psychological horror game that packs an emotional punch with an immersive storyline (take the trigger warnings seriously). Can’t believe it’s free!

Well done video and commentary