Top Indie Games of the Year From 2014 to 2024
Indie games are here to stay, and they’ve been around for decades. Perhaps you’ve played most of the top indie games in the last decade, but for those who haven’t, we’ve compiled a list of the top indie games since 2014. From nostalgia-laden platformers to thought-provoking RPGs, every year has seen one indie title rise about the rest, delivering unforgettable gaming experiences without too much of the big-budget frills we find with AAA titles. Regardless of whether you’re a longtime fan of indie games or a curious noob, here is our annual selection of the Top Indie Game of the Year from 2014 to 2024.
2014: Shovel Night
Shovel Knight quickly became a beloved classic. Its retro pixel art and nostalgic platforming mechanics evoke the NES era, while introducing modern elements such as enhanced storytelling and precise controls. Developed by Yacht Club Games, the title has won numerous awards and cultivated a strong fanbase, setting a high standard for indie games.
2015: Undertale
Nothing defined 2015 quite like Undertale. Crafted by the talented Toby Fox, this game revolutionized the RPG genre with its bold and thought-provoking approach to morality, empowering players to choose between friendship and conflict with monsters. Its whimsical humor and unforgettable characters, like Sans and Papyrus, contributed to its enduring legacy as one of the most groundbreaking indie games of all time.
2016: Stardew Valley
Farming sim enthusiasts found inspiration in Stardew Valley, a game that transformed cozy gameplay and community-building into a heartfelt experience for indie fans. Crafted by the talented solo developer ConcernedApe, it invited players to leave behind the chaos of everyday life to cultivate their own farm, explore enchanting dungeons, and pursue the love of their dreams. Stardew Valley wasn't just a landmark for indie games in 2016; it became a cultural touchstone that inspired adventure and creativity in all who played it.
2017: Cuphead
With visuals inspired by the enchanting aesthetics of 1930s cartoons, Cuphead emerged as a stunning testament to creativity and resilience in gaming. Studio MDHR’s platforming shooter beautifully melds retro charm with some of the most precise controls in the modern era. Its challenging boss battles and high-stakes gameplay not only captivated players but also solidified its legacy in gaming history, inspiring a new wave of artistry and determination in the industry.
2018: Celeste
More than just a platformer, Celeste offered players a challenging experience while weaving in themes of mental health and perseverance. Created by Maddy Makes Games, this award-winning title featured precise mechanics, a gripping story, and an unforgettable soundtrack. It was a standout for its emotional depth, proving that indie games could touch hearts just as powerfully as AAA titles.
2019: Disco Elysium
Disco Elysium redefined narrative-driven RPGs with its innovative dialogue system and deeply engaging, character-focused storytelling. This remarkable detective tale, woven with philosophical themes and moral dilemmas, truly set a new standard in the genre. Garnering multiple “Game of the Year” awards, it has been celebrated for its originality and profound depth.
2020: Hades
Supergiant Games achieved greatness with Hades, a roguelike dungeon crawler that ingeniously weaves death into the narrative. Its brilliant writing, exhilarating combat, and unforgettable characters rooted in Greek mythology transformed it into an essential experience. Hades strikingly harmonized challenge and storytelling, resulting in an addictive journey that soared to the top of numerous “Best of” lists for 2020.
2021: Inscryption
Inscryption, one of the most unique games of 2021, masterfully combined horror, card-based mechanics, and puzzle-solving into a dark, mysterious experience. Developed by Daniel Mullins Games, it guided players on a mind-bending journey through layers of unsettling narrative. Inscryption inspired a devoted following for its innovation and captivating atmosphere.
2022: Stray
Stray is a remarkable treasure that unites cat lovers and adventure enthusiasts, inviting players to explore a futuristic city through the eyes of a stray cat. BlueTwelve Studio’s creation brilliantly showcases the curiosity and agility of its feline hero while weaving a heartwarming and mysterious story that touches the hearts of players around the globe.
2023: Pizza Tower
With its chaotic platforming and vibrant animation, Pizza Tower infused a delightful energy into indie games in 2023. Drawing inspiration from retro classics, this high-speed platformer by Tour De Pizza celebrated fluid movement, exploration, and score-chasing, earning well-deserved acclaim for its exhilarating gameplay and expressive art style.
2024: 1000xResist
As 2024 unfolds, 1000xResist by Sunset Visitor inspires players with its captivating blend of exploration and storytelling in a gripping dystopian sci-fi setting. Drawing from the essence of NieR: Automata, it weaves profound narratives that explore the depths of identity and existence. Already celebrated as a masterpiece, it emerges as an indie game with lasting power and emotional resonance.
Closing Thoughts: Indie Games Are Forever!
Since 2014, each year's Top Indie Game has redefined genres, explored new dimensions of storytelling, and captivated our imaginations. From platformers and RPGs to thought-provoking mysteries, these games exemplify the boundless creativity of indie developers and their ability to transform gaming. Here's to the extraordinary tales, distinctive styles, and unforgettable experiences that indie games offer—and to a future filled with groundbreaking titles!