Top 40 must-play indie games of 2024 | Part 2

1-21

Ignacio Weil

Gaming - December 20th 2024, 15:30 GMT+1

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For this list, we’re shining the spotlight on the best indie games released in 2024. While it’s technically a ranked list, let’s be real – it’s also super subjective because comparing games across wildly different genres is like comparing apples to existential horror walking sims. (Spoiler: they’re both great in their own way.)

Think we missed an essential indie gem? It might just be waiting for you in the first part of this list, where we’ll cover numbers 40 to 21! And if it’s still not there… well, don’t be shy – drop it in the comments and school us on our oversight. We’re all ears!

20. Murders on the Yangtze River

All aboard the S.S. Intrigue! In *Murders on the Yangtze River*, you're thrust into early 20th-century China, navigating a luxurious cruise that's suddenly less about leisure and more about, well, not getting murdered. Channel your inner detective as you interrogate a colorful cast of characters, piece together cryptic clues, and unravel a web of deceit that would make even Sherlock raise an eyebrow. With its rich historical setting and intricate narrative, this game offers a voyage that's anything but smooth sailing – but hey, who needs calm waters when you've got a mystery this juicy? | © OMEGAMES STUDIO

Cropped Path of Achra — 19. Path of Achra

Ever felt like traditional roguelikes were just a tad too forgiving? Enter *Path of Achra*, a dark fantasy roguelike that tosses you into the deep end of a brutal, procedurally generated world. Streamlined controls make it easy to dive in, but don't be fooled – this game is as unforgiving as your last breakup. Customize your hero, experiment with broken builds, and fight through the deadly lands of Achra to reach the horrors of the Obelisk. It's a "broken build sandbox" that challenges you to think on your feet, adapt, and maybe cry a little. | © Ulfsire

Another Crabs Treasure — 18. Another Crab's Treasure

Shells are so last season. In *Another Crab's Treasure*, you play as a resourceful hermit crab on a mission to reclaim your repossessed shell. Set in a vibrant undersea kingdom teetering on the edge of collapse, this soulslike adventure has you scuttling through treacherous waters, battling marine foes, and using discarded trash as makeshift shells. It's a crustacean's take on the classic underdog tale, proving that even the smallest among us can make a big splash. | © Aggro Crab

Lorns Lure — 17. Lorn's Lure

Ever had a glitch in your system lead you on an existential journey? In *Lorn's Lure*, you embody an android guided by a visual glitch through a vast, mysterious structure. This atmospheric first-person platformer boasts novel climb-anything mechanics and modernized retro 3D graphics that make exploration both nostalgic and fresh. As you delve deeper, the line between reality and malfunction blurs, leading to a narrative as compelling as its gameplay. | © Rubeki Games

Thank Goodness Youre Here — 16. Thank Goodness You're Here!

Welcome to Barnsworth, where the absurd is the norm and you're the town's newest (and possibly only) hope. In *Thank Goodness You're Here!*, you play as a traveling salesman roped into a series of increasingly bizarre tasks by the eccentric locals. This comedy slapformer combines British humor with whimsical gameplay, creating an experience that's as charming as it is bonkers. It's a delightful romp that reminds us all to expect the unexpected – and maybe pack an extra pair of trousers. | © Coal Supper

15. Arctic Eggs

Embark on a frosty adventure in *Arctic Eggs*, where the chill of the Arctic meets the warmth of a heartfelt quest. As a determined explorer, you'll traverse icy landscapes, solve intricate puzzles, and uncover the mysteries hidden within ancient eggs. Each discovery brings you closer to understanding the secrets of this frozen world. With its captivating art style and engaging gameplay, *Arctic Eggs* offers a unique blend of exploration and puzzle-solving that will keep you hooked from start to finish. | © Frostbyte Studios

14. I Am Your Beast

Step into the shoes of a relentless avenger in *I Am Your Beast*, a fast-paced first-person shooter that combines stylish comic book aesthetics with high-octane action. Hunt down the military-industrial complex across micro-sandboxes, utilizing a variety of weapons and abilities to dismantle your enemies. Developed by the creators of *El Paso, Elsewhere*, this game delivers a covert revenge thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. With overwhelmingly positive reviews, players praise its engaging gameplay and compelling narrative. | © Strange Scaffold, Frosty Pop

13. Neva

Experience the moving tale of a young woman and her lifelong bond with a magnificent wolf in *Neva*. Embark on a thrilling adventure through a rapidly dying world, where your connection with your companion is key to survival. With its stunning art style and emotional storytelling, *Neva* captivates players, offering a journey that's both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Developed by Nomada Studio, the creators of *GRIS*, this game continues their legacy of delivering profound interactive experiences. | © Nomada Studio, Devolver Digital

12. UFO 50

Dive into a treasure trove of retro gaming with *UFO 50*, a collection of 50 single and multiplayer games spanning a variety of genres. From platformers and shoot 'em ups to puzzle games and RPGs, this compilation combines a familiar 8-bit aesthetic with modern game design. Each game is a unique experience, offering countless hours of entertainment. With overwhelmingly positive reviews, *UFO 50* is a testament to the creativity and passion of its developers. | © Mossmouth

11. Felvidek

Immerse yourself in 15th-century Slovakia with *Felvidek*, a JRPG that puts you in the boots of Pavol, an alcoholic knight on a mission. Meet diverse and interesting characters as you strive to drive out the Hussites and Ottomans who blight the land. With its rich historical setting and engaging narrative, *Felvidek* offers a unique RPG experience that has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews from players. | © Jozef Pavelka, Vlado Ganaj, Tutto Passa

Drova forsaken kin msn — 10. Drova - Forsaken Kin

Step into the dark and immersive world of *Drova - Forsaken Kin*, an action RPG that masterfully blends grimdark fantasy with rich lore. Explore a land where ancient rituals and mysterious creatures abound, making every encounter a test of skill and strategy. The game's intricate narrative and atmospheric design draw you into a realm where choices matter, and danger lurks around every corner. With its deep customization options and challenging combat, *Drova* offers a rewarding experience for those seeking a game that doesn't hold your hand but instead hands you a sword and wishes you luck. | © Just2D

Mouthwashing msn — 9. Mouthwashing

In *Mouthwashing*, the five crew members of the Tulpar find themselves stranded in the empty reaches of space, shrouded in perpetual sunset. This narrative-driven adventure delves into themes of isolation, survival, and the human condition, all set against a hauntingly beautiful backdrop. With its compelling storytelling and atmospheric design, *Mouthwashing* offers a unique experience that challenges players to reflect on their own humanity. | © Wrong Organ

8. The Planet Crafter

Ever dreamed of playing god on a desolate planet? *The Planet Crafter* lets you do just that, tasking you with terraforming an inhospitable world into a lush paradise fit for human life. Gather resources, build sprawling bases, and manipulate the environment to generate oxygen, heat, and pressure – essentially turning you into the ultimate space gardener. With its open-world survival mechanics and the sheer satisfaction of watching barren landscapes transform under your care, this game is a sandbox lover's dream. Just remember: with great power comes great responsibility – and probably a lot of space dust. | © Miju Games

7. Hades II

Return to the Underworld in *Hades II*, the bewitching sequel to the award-winning rogue-like dungeon crawler. This time, you'll battle beyond the Underworld using dark sorcery to take on the Titan of Time. With its signature blend of fast-paced action, rich storytelling, and stunning art, *Hades II* offers a fresh yet familiar experience that has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews from players. | © Supergiant Games

6. Lorelei and the Laser Eyes

Step into a world of mystery and intrigue with *Lorelei and the Laser Eyes*. Set in an old baroque manor somewhere in central Europe, this game invites you to explore a surreal environment filled with puzzles and secrets. As you wander in search of answers, the line between reality and illusion blurs, creating an experience that's both captivating and unsettling. With its unique art style and enigmatic narrative, *Lorelei and the Laser Eyes* has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, making it a must-play for fans of atmospheric adventure games. | © Simogo

5. Crow Country

Step into the enigmatic world of *Crow Country*, where the line between reality and folklore blurs. This atmospheric adventure game immerses you in a narrative rich with mystery and intrigue, as you unravel the secrets of a land shrouded in darkness. With its hauntingly beautiful art style and compelling storytelling, *Crow Country* captivates players, offering an experience that's both thought-provoking and visually stunning. | © 7 Raven Studios

1000x RESIST — 4. 1000xRESIST

In *1000xRESIST*, you are Watcher, dutifully serving the ALLMOTHER in an underground world, until a shocking secret changes everything. This thrilling sci-fi adventure challenges your perception of reality, blending immersive storytelling with innovative gameplay. With overwhelmingly positive reviews, players praise its engaging narrative and unique atmosphere. | © sunset visitor 斜陽過客, Fellow Traveller

ANIMAL WELL — 3. Animal Well

In *Animal Well*, curiosity isn’t just encouraged – it’s mandatory. Dive into a shadowy, sprawling labyrinth where every flickering light hides secrets waiting to be uncovered. As you navigate the interconnected tunnels, you’ll collect items that interact with the environment in ways you didn’t even realize were possible. The game’s pixel art is deceptively simple but oozes atmosphere, while its eerie sound design keeps you on edge – never quite sure if the next thing you’ll meet will be friend, foe, or just plain weird.

It’s a puzzle platformer that rewards experimentation and patience, offering plenty of “a-ha!” moments for those brave enough to keep exploring. Whether you’re a veteran spelunker or new to the genre, *Animal Well* guarantees a journey filled with wonder and surprises. | © Billy Basso, Bigmode

2. Nine Sols

Prepare yourself for a tale of vengeance and mysticism in *Nine Sols*, a gorgeous 2D action-platformer inspired by Sekiro’s deflection-heavy combat. You play as a vengeful hero slicing through a stunningly hand-drawn eastern fantasy world that’s equal parts haunting and breathtaking. As you delve deeper, you’ll unravel a story rich in lore about an ancient alien civilization and their twisted rule.

Every encounter is a test of reflexes and timing, where blocking and countering attacks is the key to survival. With intricate level design and a narrative packed with emotional weight, *Nine Sols* doesn’t just challenge you – it pulls you in completely. Fans of precise combat and unforgettable storytelling will find this game impossible to put down. | © Red Candle Games

1. Balatro

What do you get when you mash up poker, deckbuilding, and roguelikes? Pure chaotic brilliance, also known as *Balatro*. This isn’t your grandma’s card game – here, you’ll play twisted, illegal poker hands that turn into mind-bending combos capable of obliterating even the toughest foes. With every hand you play, you’ll unlock unique jokers and game-changing mechanics that force you to think five steps ahead.

The game’s tongue-in-cheek humor pairs perfectly with its deceptively deep strategy, creating an experience that’s as addictive as it is ridiculous. Whether you’re a poker shark or just looking for your next roguelike fix, *Balatro* offers an exhilarating and laugh-out-loud journey through the chaotic world of high-stakes card battles.

Did you check out the first part of this list? If not, look no further – here you go! | © LocalThunk, Playstack

1-21

Welcome back, intrepid explorers of the indie wilderness! You’ve made it through Part 1, and now it’s time for the grand finale. In Part 2 of our "Top 40 Must-Play Indie Games of 2024," we’re turning up the heat and diving into even more pixel-perfect treasures, emotional rollercoasters, and gameplay innovations so wild they might just blow your mind. (Seriously, one of these games uses bananas as a controller. Don’t ask how. Just trust.)

If Part 1 was the appetizer, consider this the main course with dessert thrown in – and maybe an after-dinner existential crisis. Whether you're here to find your next obsession or to angrily scroll for your favorite that we better not have forgotten (spoiler: we didn’t), you’re in the right place.