Indie Games

Indie, or independent games are rising in popularity. Now is as good a time as any to jump on the bandwagon and try them.

For those not aware of what Indie games are, the definition depends mostly on the person. Technically, it refers to any game created by an independent developer, but their is a certain feeling that accompanies indies as a whole. Many indie games are made with pixel graphics reminiscent of NES games. Others feature strange storylines, or take risks large companies couldn't make. Their are also many indie games that satirize parts of other games, such as Achievement Unlocked, and it's tongue-in-cheek criticism of the importance of achievements in games.

Indies as a genre appeal to a specific audience, especially those who grew up in the times of the NES and such. Many people play indie games and greatly enjoy them without realizing they are indie. Many small online games are indie games, but their are specific ones that rise above the others. Their are also some large downloadable indie games, such as Cave Story, that feature lots of interesting and engaging content.

Indies as a whole are very much worth checking out, espescially Cave Story, Passage, and Pathways, some of my favorites. The latter two are somber, and make point about life, and I reccomend them heartily (although they aren't so much fun as reflective). The first is a classic indie game originally known as Dokutsu Monogatari, and you must download a patch on the link above. It tells the story of a cave dwelling society of rabbit people. I have not yet completed it, but it is very entertaining and famous in the indie world. Darkfate is another interesting one, and also has an interesting minimalistic storyline.  If you have a Vita check out Super Crate Box and Rock Boshers, both of which are also available online.

I implore you to try any of the above.