100 Best Indie Games For The Nintendo Switch

Indie games have found a perfect home on the Nintendo Switch. With its massive library of unique and creative games from small developers, the Switch offers something special for every kind of player. The handheld mode lets you enjoy your favorite games on the go, while the option to play on a TV brings indie games to life in a bigger way.

To create a list of 100 best indie games for the Nintendo Switch, I focused on games that deliver great gameplay, creativity, and something truly memorable. I looked at popular titles and hidden gems alike, making sure to include a mix of styles, genres, and unique ideas.

Which Game Categories Will You Find

As you explore the 100 best indie games for the Switch, you’ll notice the incredible variety of games. To help you navigate this huge selection, we’ve organized the titles into several categories based on their gameplay style and themes. Each category highlights different types of experiences, whether you prefer action-packed adventures, brain-teasing puzzles, or immersive role-playing experiences.

In the following sections, we’ll break down each category in simple terms, giving you a clear idea of what to expect from the games within them. This way, you can easily find the perfect game that suits your taste and mood.

1. Platformers & Metroidvania

These games are all about jumping, running, and exploring! Platformers require players to overcome tricky obstacles, like jumping across gaps or climbing walls, while avoiding enemies. Metroidvania games add an extra layer of exploration, where players unlock new areas by finding keys, learning new skills, or discovering secret paths. They often have a big world map with lots of different rooms and areas to explore, keeping players curious and eager to find out what’s next. Many games in this category offer a mix of action and puzzles, making them exciting and rewarding.

Best for: Gamers who love exploration, overcoming challenges, and discovering new places in a game.

2. Action & Adventure

If you like action-packed games with a good story, this is your category! Action and adventure games often combine intense gameplay, where players must fight enemies or complete challenging tasks, with a storyline that keeps them hooked. These games can take players on epic journeys, sometimes through wild jungles, dark dungeons, or futuristic cities. They focus on giving players exciting, memorable moments, whether it’s a thrilling battle, a tense escape, or an epic boss fight. Many of these games let players improve their characters, making them stronger or faster over time.

Best for: Players who want an adrenaline rush, love a strong story, and enjoy high-stakes action.

3. Puzzle & Strategy

Puzzle and strategy games challenge the mind! In puzzle games, players need to solve problems or figure out how to move through tricky levels, sometimes by thinking creatively or finding patterns. Strategy games, on the other hand, require planning and making smart decisions to win. Sometimes this means building things, managing resources, or carefully planning each move to outsmart opponents. These games are perfect for people who like using their brainpower to find solutions and enjoy feeling clever after solving a challenge.

Best for: People who enjoy mental challenges, solving puzzles, or thinking strategically.

4. RPG & Roguelikes

RPG (Role-Playing Games) and Roguelikes are for those who love diving into a story and building a character. RPGs usually have a rich plot where players take on a role, such as a hero, adventurer, or detective, and make choices that affect the story. Players get to level up their character, making them stronger and more skilled as they progress. Roguelikes are a bit different—these games are designed to be replayed, with new challenges or levels each time. They’re often quite difficult, but very rewarding, especially as players improve and get further each time they play.

Best for: Gamers who enjoy stories, character building, and the challenge of starting over stronger.

5. Simulation & Management

Simulation and management games let players create and control their own worlds. In these games, you can build a farm, manage a city, or even create your own fantasy life. The focus is on letting players make choices, like deciding what crops to grow, where to build roads, or how to take care of characters or animals. These games are often relaxing, allowing players to play at their own pace and enjoy the world they’re building. They’re perfect for players who enjoy creative freedom, and many of these games let players continue building and expanding for as long as they like.

Best for: Players who love building, managing resources, and creating their own experiences at a relaxed pace.

Here is The List of The Best Indie Games For The Switch By Category

In this list, we’ve compiled a selection of the 100 best indie games available on the Nintendo Switch, organized by category. Each game highlights the creativity and passion of its developers, encouraging players to discover new worlds, face exciting challenges, and enjoy memorable stories.

Platformers & Metroidvania

1. Hollow Knight (2017)

Hollow Knight is a beautifully crafted action-adventure game set in the mysterious, underground world of Hallownest. Players control a silent knight, exploring vast, interconnected areas filled with challenging enemies, hidden secrets, and unique NPCs. The game features a deep combat system that encourages players to develop their skills and strategies. With its stunning hand-drawn visuals and atmospheric music, Hollow Knight creates an immersive experience that pulls players into its hauntingly beautiful world.

Plot: The story follows a small, nameless knight on a quest to uncover the mysteries of Hallownest, a kingdom plagued by a mysterious infection. As players progress, they encounter various characters and uncover the tragic history of the land and its inhabitants.

Best For: Players who enjoy exploration, challenging gameplay, and deep lore.

Key Highlights:

Hand-drawn art style
Metroidvania gameplay with interconnected areas
Emotional soundtrack that enhances the atmosphere
A variety of upgrades and abilities to discover

Average Playtime:
Approximately 20-40 hours, depending on exploration and completion.

2. Celeste (2018)

Celeste is a platformer that follows Madeline, a young woman on a journey to climb the titular mountain. The game is known for its tight controls, pixel-perfect platforming, and a heartfelt narrative about overcoming personal struggles and self-acceptance. Players navigate through challenging levels filled with spikes, moving platforms, and other hazards while collecting strawberries and discovering secrets.

Plot: As Madeline climbs Celeste Mountain, she encounters various challenges that reflect her internal struggles with anxiety and self-doubt. Each level presents not just physical obstacles but also emotional hurdles that resonate with players.

Best For: Players who love platforming challenges and meaningful stories.

Key Highlights:

Precise platforming mechanics with a focus on skill
A touching story about mental health and perseverance
Beautiful pixel art and an emotional soundtrack
Accessibility options for players of all skill levels

Average Playtime: Around 10-15 hours to complete the main story.

3. Ori and the Blind Forest (2015)

Ori and the Blind Forest is a visually stunning platformer that tells the emotional tale of Ori, a guardian spirit who must save the forest of Nibel from decay. The game combines beautiful hand-painted artwork, intricate animations, and an orchestral score to create a captivating experience. Players explore a lush world filled with puzzles, platforming challenges, and hidden areas while unlocking new abilities that allow for deeper exploration.

Plot: After a guardian spirit, Ori, is separated from his family, he meets Sein, a small creature with a powerful light. Together, they embark on a quest to restore balance to Nibel after a catastrophic event that has left the forest in turmoil.

Best For: Players who appreciate beautiful visuals, emotional storytelling, and a well-crafted atmosphere.

Key Highlights:

Hand-painted artwork and visually stunning environments
Fluid movement and platforming mechanics
Compelling narrative with rich character development
Challenging puzzles and combat encounters

Average Playtime: Around 10-15 hours.

4. Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove (2015)

Shovel Knight is a retro-inspired action platformer that pays homage to classic 8-bit games. Players control Shovel Knight, a heroic knight armed with a shovel, as he journeys through vibrant levels filled with enemies, treasures, and secrets. The game is beloved for its tight gameplay mechanics, nostalgic aesthetics, and charming humor.

Plot: Shovel Knight must defeat the Order of No Quarter to rescue his beloved Shield Knight from the evil Enchantress, overcoming various foes and challenges along the way.

Best For: Players who love nostalgic gameplay, charming characters, and classic platforming action.

Key Highlights:

Retro-inspired graphics and music reminiscent of 8-bit games
Fun co-op gameplay that allows friends to join in
Engaging upgrade system for abilities and equipment
Unique boss battles with memorable characters

Average Playtime: 15-25 hours for the full experience, including all expansions.

5. Axiom Verge (2015)

Axiom Verge is a metroidvania-style game where players explore an alien world filled with bizarre creatures, hidden technologies, and mind-bending secrets. The game features retro graphics that evoke the look of classic 16-bit games while introducing modern gameplay mechanics. Players uncover the mysteries of a strange world, utilizing a variety of weapons and tools to combat enemies and solve puzzles.

Plot: After a lab accident, Trace awakens in a mysterious alien world and must navigate through it, discovering new abilities and facing off against strange creatures as he searches for the truth about his situation.

Best For: Players who enjoy exploration, retro-style gameplay, and unique mechanics.

Key Highlights:

Intriguing sci-fi narrative with twists and turns
Unique weapon mechanics that allow for creative problem-solving
Variety of power-ups that enhance gameplay
Atmospheric soundtrack that complements the exploration

Average Playtime: Around 10-15 hours.

6. Dead Cells (2018)

Dead Cells is a rogue-lite, metroidvania-inspired action platformer that challenges players with procedurally generated levels filled with enemies and traps. The game features a rich combat system that allows players to experiment with different weapons and abilities, creating unique playstyles. With its fast-paced action and stunning pixel art, Dead Cells offers a thrilling experience.

Plot: Players awaken as a mass of cells on a mysterious island, battling through various biomes filled with deadly foes and intricate traps as they seek to escape and uncover the island’s secrets.

Best For: Players who enjoy fast-paced action, strategic gameplay, and high replayability.

Key Highlights:

Procedurally generated levels that change with each run
Permadeath mechanics that add tension and excitement
Fluid combat and movement, allowing for diverse strategies
A vast array of weapons and abilities to customize playstyle

Average Playtime: 15-30 hours, depending on playstyle and exploration.

7. Cuphead (2017)

Cuphead is a run-and-gun action game known for its hand-drawn 1930s cartoon art style and jazz soundtrack. Players navigate a series of challenging boss fights and levels, each designed with unique mechanics and visual flair. The game emphasizes skill and timing, requiring players to learn enemy patterns and devise strategies to succeed.

Plot: Cuphead and his brother Mugman make a deal with the devil to pay off their debts by collecting the souls of runaway debtors, leading to a series of intense and colorful confrontations.

Best For: Players who enjoy challenging gameplay, artistic visuals, and unique combat mechanics.

Key Highlights:

Hand-drawn animation and a distinctive art style
Challenging boss battles that require precision and skill
Local co-op mode for cooperative play
Various weapons and abilities to experiment with

Average Playtime: 8-12 hours to complete the main story, longer with extra challenges.

8. SteamWorld Dig 2 (2017)

In this metroidvania-style platformer, players dig through a rich underground world filled with treasure, puzzles, and enemies. The game features charming graphics and engaging mechanics, with a focus on exploration and combat. Players must navigate through different biomes, each with its own set of challenges and secrets to uncover.

Plot: After the events of the first game, players control Dorothy, who embarks on a quest to find her missing friend Rusty. As she digs deeper into the earth, she uncovers ancient mysteries and powerful enemies.

Best For: Players who enjoy exploration, puzzle-solving, and vibrant graphics.

Key Highlights:

Unique digging mechanics that allow for creative exploration
Gorgeous visuals and animations
Upgradable abilities that enhance gameplay
A rich world filled with lore and secrets to discover

Average Playtime: Around 10-15 hours.

9. The Messenger (2018)

The Messenger is a retro-style action platformer that transitions from 8-bit to 16-bit graphics as players progress. It features time travel mechanics that change the gameplay significantly, adding depth and complexity to the platforming challenges. The game is infused with humor, and players must navigate through various environments filled with traps, puzzles, and enemies.

Plot: Players control a young ninja tasked with delivering a scroll to save his clan from an evil demon. Throughout the journey, he discovers the importance of the scroll and the world’s balance.

Best For: Players who enjoy fast-paced action and clever humor in their games.

Key Highlights:

Engaging time travel mechanics that influence level design
Diverse level design with a variety of environments
Upgradeable abilities and skills for customization
Witty dialogue and charming characters

Average Playtime: Approximately 10-15 hours.

10. Blasphemous (2019)

Blasphemous is a dark and atmospheric action platformer with heavy religious themes and challenging combat. Players explore a cursed land filled with grotesque enemies and intricate lore. The game combines a unique art style with brutal gameplay, creating an immersive experience that draws players into its world.

Plot: The Penitent One seeks to lift the curse from his land while battling monstrous beings and confronting the consequences of a mysterious event known as the “Silent Sorrow.”

Best For: Players who appreciate dark narratives, rich lore, and challenging gameplay.

Key Highlights:

Stunning pixel art that creates a haunting atmosphere
Deep lore and story that unfolds through exploration
Complex combat system with various weapons and upgrades
Unique bosses that offer diverse challenges

Average Playtime: Around 15-20 hours, depending on exploration and difficulty.

11. Katana ZERO (2019)

Katana ZERO is a stylish action platformer with fast-paced combat and a neo-noir aesthetic. Players control a samurai assassin who can manipulate time, allowing for strategic gameplay where each move counts. The game features a gripping narrative, with choices affecting the story and gameplay.

Plot: The protagonist receives mysterious contracts to eliminate targets while piecing together his fragmented memories, leading to a gripping storyline filled with twists.

Best For: Players who enjoy fast-paced action, strategic gameplay, and narrative-driven experiences.

Key Highlights:

Time-manipulation mechanics that allow for strategic planning
Cinematic storytelling that engages players
Unique visual style with striking aesthetics
Complex combat system with a focus on precision

Average Playtime: Approximately 6-10 hours.

12. Guacamelee! Super Turbo Championship Edition (2014)

Guacamelee! is a lively and colorful metroidvania-style platformer inspired by Mexican culture and folklore. Players control Juan Aguacate, a humble luchador who sets out to save his beloved and stop an evil plot that threatens both the living world and the Land of the Dead. With vibrant visuals, fast-paced combat, and a humorous storyline, the game blends traditional folklore with modern gaming in a uniquely charming way.

Plot: When Juan’s love, Lupita, is kidnapped by the evil Carlos Calaca, he dons the mask of a luchador to journey through two realms—life and death—to save her and prevent a dark ritual. Along the way, he gains new powers and abilities that help him in his quest and bring him closer to becoming a legendary hero.

Best For: Players who love vibrant visuals, humor, and engaging combat mechanics.

Key Highlights:

Unique luchador combat mechanics that allow for creative gameplay
Co-op gameplay for an enjoyable multiplayer experience
Rich cultural references and engaging storylines
A wide variety of enemies and challenging bosses

Average Playtime: Around 10-15 hours.

13. Guacamelee! 2 (2018)

Guacamelee! 2 is a fantastic follow-up to the original, expanding on its vibrant metroidvania-style gameplay with new powers, refined combat mechanics, and a larger, more intricate world. The game’s signature art style and humorous writing remain a highlight, capturing the essence of Mexican culture while introducing fresh gameplay elements, like chicken transformations and new combat abilities. With enhanced platforming and a variety of quirky characters, Guacamelee! 2 provides a delightful and challenging experience.

Plot: Set several years after the events of the first game, Juan Aguacate is called back into action to prevent an ancient evil from destroying not just his world but multiple timelines. Journeying across the Mexiverse, he encounters powerful new foes and allies, learning new skills as he fights to restore balance to the world.

Best For: Players who enjoyed the first game and want more of the same fun and humor, as well as newcomers to the series.

Key Highlights:

New abilities and combos that expand gameplay possibilities
Expanded multiplayer options for co-op play
Bright, colorful graphics that enhance the experience
Rich lore and humor that makes the game enjoyable

Average Playtime: Approximately 12-20 hours.

14. Super Meat Boy (2010)

Super Meat Boy is a fast-paced, hardcore platformer where players take control of Meat Boy, a small cube of animated meat, on a mission to rescue his beloved Bandage Girl from the clutches of the villainous Dr. Fetus. Renowned for its incredibly challenging levels and sharp, responsive controls, the game demands precision, skill, and perseverance. Its quirky humor and classic platforming style have made it a beloved title in the indie gaming community.

Plot: Dr. Fetus has kidnapped Bandage Girl, and Meat Boy must navigate a series of deadly environments to save her. Each level brings increasingly tough traps, from saw blades to lava pits, as well as encounters with unique bosses who stand in Meat Boy’s way.

Best For: Players who love challenging platformers, precision-based gameplay, and a humorous tone.

Key Highlights:

Tight controls that reward skill and timing
Over 300 levels with increasing difficulty
Humorous tone and quirky characters
Unique boss fights that add variety to gameplay

Average Playtime: 10-20 hours, depending on skill level and completionist tendencies.

15. Super Meat Boy Forever (2020)

Super Meat Boy Forever builds on the brutal platforming of the original with a new auto-running mechanic, where characters constantly move forward, demanding even quicker reflexes and sharper timing from players. This sequel introduces fresh gameplay mechanics, including dynamic levels that change with each playthrough and a roster of new playable characters, all while maintaining the intense difficulty and humor fans love.

Plot: After Dr. Fetus kidnaps Meat Boy and Bandage Girl’s child, Nugget, the determined couple sets out on a daring rescue mission. Players must navigate challenging, hazard-filled environments as they chase Dr. Fetus through an increasingly difficult series of levels, each with traps and obstacles more daunting than the last.

Best For: Players who enjoyed the first game and are looking for new challenges and mechanics.

Key Highlights:

New auto-running mechanics that change gameplay dynamics
Levels are randomly generated, providing a fresh experience each time
Co-op mode for an added layer of fun
Unique art style and animations that enhance the experience

Average Playtime: Around 10-15 hours.

16. Unravel Two (2018)

Unravel Two is a charming puzzle-platformer where players control two Yarnys, small creatures made of yarn, as they embark on a journey together. The game emphasizes cooperation and teamwork, with puzzles designed for two players. The vibrant environments and emotional storytelling create an engaging experience for all ages.

Plot: The two Yarnys must work together to navigate through a vast, picturesque world filled with obstacles and hidden dangers. As they progress, they encounter moments of joy and tension that reflect the strength of friendship and the importance of connection in facing life’s challenges.

Best For: Players who enjoy cooperative gameplay and charming puzzles.

Key Highlights:

Two-player cooperative gameplay that requires teamwork
Beautifully crafted levels filled with environmental puzzles
Rich visuals and a heartfelt narrative
Engaging gameplay that encourages exploration and creativity

Average Playtime: Approximately 6-10 hours.

17. Dandara (2018)

Dandara is a gravity-defying platformer that redefines exploration with a unique movement system. Instead of traditional running and jumping, players dash between surfaces, moving across walls, floors, and ceilings to navigate the expansive, interconnected world of Salt. This innovative approach to platforming creates a challenging, dynamic experience, enhanced by the game’s striking visuals and immersive soundtrack, which breathe life into this mysterious world.

Plot: In Salt, an oppressed world where freedom is restricted, players embody Dandara, a hero rising to fight against tyranny. Her mission is to liberate her people and bring balance to Salt by facing powerful enemies and overcoming daunting obstacles.

Best For: Players who enjoy innovative mechanics and artistic visuals.

Key Highlights:

Unique movement mechanics that challenge traditional platforming
Beautiful hand-drawn art and animation
A rich narrative exploring themes of freedom and resilience
Atmospheric music that complements the gameplay experience

Average Playtime: Around 8-12 hours.

18. Cave Story+ (2017)

Cave Story+ is a classic indie game that combines platforming, exploration, and RPG elements. Players control Quote, a robot who wakes up in a mysterious cave and must uncover the secrets of the world while battling various creatures. The game is praised for its engaging story, memorable characters, and retro-inspired visuals.

Plot: As Quote explores the cave, he discovers a conflict between the Mimiga (a rabbit-like species) and the evil Doctor, leading him to take action and unravel the mysteries of his existence.

Best For: Players who enjoy classic platformers with deep narratives and exploration.

Key Highlights:

Engaging story with memorable characters
Variety of weapons and upgrades
Beautiful pixel art and soundtrack
A mix of platforming, combat, and exploration

Average Playtime: Approximately 6-10 hours.

19. Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight (2016)

Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight is a charming action-platformer that blends exploration and combat with a beautiful art style. Players control Kaho, a priestess on a quest to save her homeland from a mysterious curse. The game features fluid movement, tight controls, and a variety of enemies to defeat.

Plot: Kaho must journey through a cursed land, battling enemies and bosses while uncovering the truth behind the curse that plagues her people.

Best For: Players who enjoy beautiful art styles and engaging platforming gameplay.

Key Highlights:

Stunning pixel art and animation
Fluid combat mechanics and abilities
Engaging boss battles with unique designs
A rich world filled with secrets and lore

Average Playtime: Around 8-12 hours.

20. Gato Roboto (2019)

Gato Roboto is a quirky metroidvania-style game where players control a cat in a mech suit. The game features charming black-and-white graphics and simple yet engaging gameplay as players explore an alien planet, solving puzzles and battling enemies.

Plot: Players control Kiki, a cat who must rescue her owner after their spaceship crashes on an alien planet. Equipped with a mech suit, she explores the planet to uncover its secrets.

Best For: Players who enjoy quirky humor and classic metroidvania mechanics.

Key Highlights:

Unique premise of playing as a cat in a mech suit
Charming black-and-white graphics
Simple controls with satisfying gameplay
A variety of abilities to unlock and use

Average Playtime: Around 4-6 hours.

Action & Adventure

21. Hades (2020)

Hades is a rogue-like dungeon crawler set in Greek mythology. You play as Zagreus, the son of Hades, trying to escape the Underworld. With fast-paced combat and unique abilities based on Greek gods’ powers, Hades offers dynamic gameplay and an engaging narrative that unfolds as you progress.

Plot: Zagreus wants to escape his father’s realm and reach Mount Olympus. Along the way, he encounters gods and mythical figures who help or hinder his journey.

Best For: Fans of fast-paced action games and those who enjoy narrative-driven rogue-likes.

Key Highlights:

Stunning art and voice acting
Dynamic combat and extensive upgrades
Engaging storyline that evolves with each attempt

Average Playtime: 15-25 hours for the main story, with much more for completionists.

22. Hyper Light Drifter (2016)

Hyper Light Drifter is an action RPG with pixel-art graphics and a sci-fi/fantasy setting. You play as a Drifter, exploring a ruined world and battling enemies with a sword and a blaster. Known for its fast, challenging combat, the game also offers a mysterious storyline with no dialogue, leaving the player to piece together the world’s story.

Plot: The Drifter is on a quest to find a cure for his illness and uncover the secrets of a world ravaged by a long-past disaster.

Best For: Players who love fast, precise combat and atmospheric storytelling.

Key Highlights:

Unique art style with vibrant colors
Challenging, fluid combat mechanics
Story and lore are revealed through environmental clues

Average Playtime: 10-15 hours.

23. Spiritfarer (2020)

Spiritfarer is a cozy management sim and adventure game where you play as Stella, a ferrymaster guiding spirits to the afterlife. The gameplay includes resource gathering, crafting, and heartfelt conversations with characters as you fulfill their last wishes.

Plot: Stella takes on the role of Spiritfarer, helping deceased spirits complete unfinished business and say their final goodbyes before moving on.

Best For: Players looking for a relaxing, emotional game with charming characters and meaningful themes.

Key Highlights:

Gorgeous hand-drawn visuals
Emotional storytelling with unique characters
Build and upgrade your boat as a mobile home

Average Playtime: 20-30 hours.

24. The Binding of Isaac: Afterbirth+ (2017)

The Binding of Isaac is a dark, rogue-like dungeon crawler where players control Isaac, a young boy trying to escape his mother. Each run features procedurally generated levels filled with monsters, power-ups, and secrets.

Plot: Isaac flees into the basement to escape his mother, who believes she’s on a divine mission. Each floor of the basement brings new horrors and challenges as he fights for survival.

Best For: Fans of challenging rogue-likes with replayability and dark humor.

Key Highlights:

Procedurally generated levels with hundreds of items and upgrades
Dark and twisted story inspired by biblical themes
High replayability with diverse power-ups

Average Playtime: Endless replay value due to its rogue-like structure.

25. Moonlighter (2018)

Moonlighter is an action RPG that combines dungeon crawling with shop management. By day, you run a shop in a quaint town, and by night, you explore dungeons for treasures to sell.

Plot: Will, a shopkeeper by day and dungeon explorer by night, dreams of being a hero. He delves into dangerous realms, collecting items to sell in his shop to support his journey.

Best For: Players who enjoy unique gameplay blending action with business simulation.

Key Highlights:

Blend of shop management and dungeon-crawling
Upgrade and customize your shop
Procedurally generated dungeons

Average Playtime: 15-20 hours.

26. Children of Morta (2019)

Children of Morta is a story-driven action RPG where players control members of the Bergson family, each with unique abilities. They must work together to protect their homeland from a growing corruption.

Plot: The Bergson family battles corruption spreading through Mount Morta. Each family member brings different skills, making the journey through the procedurally generated dungeons a unique experience.

Best For: Players who enjoy rich stories with family dynamics and dungeon-crawling gameplay.

Key Highlights:

Unique, family-focused storytelling
Different classes based on family members’ skills
Gorgeous pixel art and compelling narrative

Average Playtime: 15-20 hours.

27. Enter the Gungeon (2017)

Enter the Gungeon is a bullet-hell, rogue-like dungeon crawler where players descend into the “Gungeon” to find a gun that can kill their past. Players choose from different characters, each with unique abilities, and face an onslaught of enemies.

Plot: The Gungeon is a mysterious, ever-changing labyrinth that hides a powerful artifact. Players shoot their way through waves of enemies to discover its secrets.

Best For: Fans of fast-paced rogue-likes and chaotic, bullet-dodging action.

Key Highlights:

Bullet-hell mechanics with unique guns and items
High replayability with randomly generated rooms
Cooperative play for two players

Average Playtime: 15-30 hours.

28. Ruiner (2017)

Ruiner is a top-down action game set in a cyberpunk dystopia. Players take on the role of a masked man on a mission to rescue his kidnapped brother, taking on gangs and corrupt organizations along the way.

Plot: In the neon-lit city of Rengkok, a man hacks through enemies and encounters allies in his quest to reunite with his brother.

Best For: Players who love cyberpunk themes and fast, violent combat.

Key Highlights:

Stylish, brutal combat mechanics
Cyberpunk visuals and a synth-heavy soundtrack
Intense and engaging storyline

Average Playtime: 6-8 hours.

29. Katana ZERO (2019)

Katana ZERO is a stylish neo-noir action platformer where players control a katana-wielding assassin. With time-slowing abilities and a unique storyline, it combines challenging gameplay with a gripping narrative.

Plot: Players unravel the mystery behind the assassin’s past and face off against powerful enemies in a futuristic city.

Best For: Fans of challenging platformers and cinematic storytelling.

Key Highlights:

Slow-motion mechanics and instant kills
Neo-noir art style and thrilling narrative
Unique dialogue choices affecting the story

Average Playtime: 6-8 hours.

30. Undertale (2015)

Undertale is a beloved RPG known for its unique combat system, humor, and choice-based gameplay. Players can choose to fight or spare enemies, leading to different story outcomes.

Plot: A child falls into the Underground, a world of monsters, and must find a way out, forming relationships or battling foes.

Best For: Fans of RPGs with quirky storytelling and multiple endings.

Key Highlights:

Unique combat that allows non-violent approaches
Humorous dialogue and memorable characters
Multiple endings based on player choices

Average Playtime: 6-10 hours.

31. CrossCode (2020)

CrossCode is a retro-inspired RPG with a blend of 16-bit visuals and a futuristic setting. Players control Lea, a mute avatar in an MMORPG, as she explores dungeons, fights enemies, and unravels a mystery.

Plot: Lea, who has lost her memories, is thrust into a virtual world where she must solve puzzles and confront her past.

Best For: Players who enjoy RPGs with puzzles and deep storylines.

Key Highlights:

Engaging puzzle and combat mechanics
Expansive open world with diverse environments
16-bit style with modern gameplay elements

Average Playtime: 30-40 hours.

32. Death’s Door (2021)

Death’s Door is an action-adventure game where players take on the role of a crow working for the “Reaping Commission” to collect souls. The game offers smooth combat, intricate puzzles, and an engaging story.

Plot: A soul-reaping crow embarks on an adventure after a soul escapes, revealing secrets about life and death.

Best For: Players who enjoy Zelda-like games with exploration and challenging combat.

Key Highlights:

Engaging combat and clever puzzles
Beautifully designed world
A compelling story with humorous undertones

Average Playtime: 10-15 hours.

33. Ape Out (2019)

Ape Out is a chaotic top-down action game where players control a gorilla escaping from captivity. The game features simple yet addictive mechanics and a jazz soundtrack that syncs with the action.

Plot: Players control an ape smashing through enemies in various levels as they seek freedom.

Best For: Fans of fast-paced, music-driven action.

Key Highlights:

Unique visuals and a reactive jazz soundtrack
Simple but satisfying gameplay
Fun, chaotic action

Average Playtime: 2-4 hours.

Puzzle and Strategy

41. Baba Is You (2019)

Baba Is You is a unique puzzle game that lets you alter the game rules to solve each level. Players push blocks labeled with words like “Wall,” “Push,” or “You” to change how objects interact.

Plot: Players control Baba, navigating levels by changing the rules to reach a goal.

Best For: Fans of brain-teasing puzzles and those who enjoy experimenting with game mechanics.

Key Highlights:

Creative gameplay where you manipulate game rules
Hundreds of challenging levels
Simple visuals that emphasize logic-based puzzles

Average Playtime: 10-20 hours.

42. The Witness (2016)

The Witness is an open-world puzzle game set on a mysterious island. Players explore the island, solving hundreds of puzzles that reveal parts of a larger mystery.

Plot: You wake up alone on a deserted island with no memory and must explore and solve puzzles to uncover secrets about the island and yourself.

Best For: Players who love open-world exploration and intricate, challenging puzzles.

Key Highlights:

Beautiful, colorful island setting
Hundreds of mind-bending puzzles
Deep, philosophical themes

Average Playtime: 20-30 hours.

43. Inside (2016)

Inside is a dark, atmospheric puzzle platformer with a minimalist approach to storytelling. Players guide a young boy through a dystopian world, solving puzzles and avoiding dangers.

Plot: The boy journeys through a dark and oppressive world, unraveling its secrets as he tries to survive.

Best For: Fans of atmospheric storytelling and platforming puzzles.

Key Highlights:

Dark, haunting art style
Clever, physics-based puzzles
A suspenseful and mysterious story

Average Playtime: 3-5 hours.

44. Limbo (2010)

Limbo is a black-and-white puzzle platformer with a focus on survival and exploration. Players guide a boy through a dangerous world filled with traps and monsters in search of his sister.

Plot: In a haunting, monochromatic world, the boy ventures into the unknown to find his missing sister.

Best For: Players who enjoy eerie atmospheres and challenging puzzles.

Key Highlights:

Striking black-and-white visuals
Challenging, physics-based puzzles
A minimalist but gripping narrative

Average Playtime: 3-5 hours.

45. Fez (2013)

Fez is a colorful puzzle-platformer where players manipulate a 2D world by rotating it in 3D. Players control Gomez, a creature who discovers a hidden third dimension and must explore it to solve puzzles.

Plot: Gomez sets out on a journey to collect pieces of a powerful artifact after learning his world has hidden dimensions.

Best For: Fans of platforming puzzles with a unique twist.

Key Highlights:

Innovative 2D-to-3D perspective-shifting mechanic
Vibrant, pixel-art visuals
A variety of exploration-based puzzles

Average Playtime: 6-10 hours.

46. Gorogoa (2017)

Gorogoa is a hand-drawn puzzle game where players move panels to create new scenes and solve puzzles. The game’s unique style and storytelling through visual art make it a distinctive experience.

Plot: The story unfolds through visuals and surreal scenarios, with each panel representing a different part of the journey.

Best For: Fans of artistic, visual storytelling and puzzle-solving.

Key Highlights:

Stunning hand-drawn art
Unique panel-based puzzle mechanics
A calm, reflective gameplay experience

Average Playtime: 2-3 hours.

47. Sayonara Wild Hearts (2019)

Sayonara Wild Hearts is a rhythm game mixed with adventure and storytelling. Players journey through a neon-lit world with music-driven gameplay and experience an emotional story about love and loss.

Plot: A young woman’s heart breaks, leading her to a dream world where she battles to restore balance.

Best For: Music lovers and players who enjoy rhythm-based gameplay.

Key Highlights:

Stylish visuals and captivating music
Easy-to-follow controls
Emotional, visually-driven story

Average Playtime: 1-2 hours.

48. The Gardens Between (2018)

The Gardens Between is a puzzle game where players control two friends as they explore dreamlike islands filled with memories. Manipulating time is key to solving puzzles and uncovering memories.

Plot: Arina and Frendt relive memories of their friendship on surreal islands, uncovering moments they shared.

Best For: Players who enjoy heartfelt stories and time-based puzzles.

Key Highlights:

Beautiful, hand-crafted environments
Time manipulation mechanic
Touching narrative about friendship

Average Playtime: 2-4 hours.

49. GRIS (2018)

GRIS is a platformer focused on emotions and art. Players guide a young woman named Gris as she deals with loss, using color to transform her monochrome world. The game combines stunning visuals with serene gameplay.

Plot:
Gris explores a world reflecting her emotional journey, restoring color as she finds healing.

Best For:
Fans of artistic games with emotional storytelling.

Key Highlights:

Beautiful watercolor-inspired visuals
Emotional story about personal growth
Platforming mechanics tied to emotional themes

Average Playtime: 3-5 hours.

50. Untitled Goose Game (2019)

In Untitled Goose Game, players control a mischievous goose causing havoc in a small town. The game combines puzzles with humor as players complete tasks to annoy the townspeople.

Plot: The goose moves through the town, stealing items, scaring people, and causing general chaos.

Best For: Players who enjoy humor and quirky, lighthearted games.

Key Highlights:

Fun, sandbox-style mischief gameplay
Unique, playful art style
Open-ended puzzles

Average Playtime: 2-3 hours.

51. Pikuniku (2019)

Pikuniku is a quirky puzzle-adventure game set in a colorful world where players help characters overcome problems. It combines exploration, humor, and simple puzzles.

Plot: Piku, a misunderstood creature, helps townsfolk resist a company exploiting their resources.

Best For: Fans of lighthearted humor and cooperative puzzle-solving.

Key Highlights:

Colorful, simple visuals
Cooperative and single-player modes
Fun, goofy story with humor

Average Playtime: 3-4 hours.

52. Human: Fall Flat (2017)

Human: Fall Flat is a physics-based puzzle game where players navigate funny, wobbly characters through challenging levels. The game’s unpredictable physics create funny and sometimes chaotic outcomes.

Plot: Bob, the main character, dreams of various worlds filled with puzzles, which players solve to move forward.

Best For: Fans of cooperative and physics-based puzzles.

Key Highlights:

Hilarious physics that lead to unexpected outcomes
Cooperative mode for added fun
Customizable character options

Average Playtime: 4-5 hours.

53. Snipperclips Plus (2017)

Snipperclips is a cooperative puzzle game where players control paper characters who must snip each other into different shapes to solve puzzles. The game encourages communication and creativity.

Plot: Two characters work together to solve puzzles in a world made of paper, cutting and transforming each other into shapes to complete tasks.

Best For: Fans of multiplayer puzzles and creative problem-solving.

Key Highlights:

Fun, cooperative gameplay
Cute, paper-inspired visuals
A variety of puzzles that encourage teamwork

Average Playtime: 3-5 hours.

54. Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime (2015)

Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime is a space adventure where players control a spaceship with multiple functions. Working with friends, players move between controls to navigate space and fight enemies.

Plot: Players rescue animals and battle enemies to save the universe from dark forces.

Best For: Fans of cooperative games with action and strategy.

Key Highlights:

Unique cooperative mechanics
Bright, neon visuals
Multiplayer focus with chaotic fun

Average Playtime: 4-6 hours.

55. The Talos Principle (2017)

The Talos Principle is a first-person puzzle game set in a mysterious, ancient world. Players solve complex puzzles while uncovering a philosophical story about AI, consciousness, and humanity.

Plot: As a robot exploring a world filled with ancient ruins, players uncover clues to understand their purpose.

Best For: Fans of puzzle games with deep philosophical themes.

Key Highlights:

First-person puzzle-solving
Thought-provoking story with philosophical themes
Over 100 intricate puzzles

Average Playtime: 15-20 hours.

56. Death Squared (2017)

Death Squared is a cooperative puzzle game where players control robots and work together to navigate hazards and reach their goal. Each player must avoid traps and obstacles while helping others, making communication key.

Plot: You’re testing AI-controlled robots in a series of puzzles within a lab. Each level increases in difficulty as you avoid dangers and work together.

Best For: Fans of cooperative puzzles and players who enjoy working through challenges with friends.

Key Highlights:

Cooperative gameplay with emphasis on teamwork
Over 80 levels of increasingly difficult puzzles
Fun commentary and humor

Average Playtime: 5-10 hours.

57. Thomas Was Alone (2014)

Thomas Was Alone is a minimalist puzzle platformer where players control a group of rectangles, each with unique abilities. Together, they navigate obstacles and form friendships, each level revealing more of the storyline.

Plot: Thomas, a small red rectangle, gains consciousness and encounters other “characters” with various powers as they work together to escape the digital world they inhabit.

Best For: Players who love heartfelt narratives and simple, clever puzzles.

Key Highlights:

Emotional story and character development
Unique personalities for each shape
Simple but charming visual style

Average Playtime: 3-4 hours.

58. BoxBoy! + BoxGirl! (2019)

BoxBoy! + BoxGirl! is a puzzle platformer where players use their box-like character’s abilities to create blocks that solve puzzles, navigate obstacles, and reach the goal. The game also introduces cooperative puzzles with a second player as BoxGirl.

Plot: BoxBoy and BoxGirl embark on a series of puzzles across various levels, using their box-creating abilities to overcome challenges together.

Best For: Puzzle fans looking for a fun, light-hearted experience with solo or cooperative play.

Key Highlights:

Charming black-and-white art style
Over 270 puzzles
Cooperative mode for two players

Average Playtime: 6-10 hours.

59. Creaks (2020)

Creaks is a dark, atmospheric puzzle game set in a mysterious mansion filled with creatures that transform into furniture. Players explore the mansion, solve puzzles, and uncover secrets as they avoid being caught by these strange creatures.

Plot: You explore a world hidden behind your bedroom wall, discovering a strange mansion filled with puzzles, traps, and shape-shifting creatures.

Best For: Fans of atmospheric puzzle games with unique art styles and eerie environments.

Key Highlights:

Beautiful hand-painted art style
Intriguing, mysterious storyline
Puzzles combined with light horror elements

Average Playtime: 6-8 hours.

60. Lumines Remastered (2018)

Lumines Remastered is a rhythmic puzzle game where players match blocks to a beat, clearing the board as the music progresses. It combines puzzle-solving with electronic music, providing a fast-paced, visually stimulating experience.

Plot: The game doesn’t follow a plot but instead focuses on clearing blocks in sync with the music to create a hypnotic, rhythm-based puzzle experience.

Best For: Players who love rhythm games and Tetris-style block puzzles.

Key Highlights:

Addictive rhythm-based puzzle mechanics
Immersive electronic soundtrack
Multiple game modes for varying difficulty

Average Playtime: 4-8 hours.

RPG & Roguelikes

61. Slay the Spire (2019)

Slay the Spire combines deck-building with roguelike elements, where players craft a card deck to battle enemies as they ascend a mysterious tower. Each run is unique, with new cards and strategies to explore.

Plot: Climb the Spire, facing different monsters and bosses, each with unique abilities. Choose from multiple characters, each with their own style of play and available cards.

Best For: Fans of card games and roguelikes looking for strategic depth and replayability.

Key Highlights:

Unique combination of deck-building and roguelike elements
Endless replayability with random levels and card upgrades
Strategic gameplay that rewards careful planning

Average Playtime: 10-15 hours per run; highly replayable.

62. Moonlighter (2018)

Moonlighter blends dungeon-crawling and shop management. Players battle through dungeons to collect loot by night and sell items to villagers by day, upgrading their shop and unlocking new equipment.

Plot: You play as Will, a young shopkeeper with dreams of becoming a hero. By exploring dungeons, you gather items to sell in your shop, funding your equipment and further exploration.

Best For: Fans of RPGs with an economic twist and dungeon exploration.

Key Highlights:

Unique blend of shopkeeping and dungeon-crawling
Charming art style and addictive gameplay loop
Equipment upgrades and character progression

Average Playtime: 10-15 hours.

63. Stardew Valley (2016)

Stardew Valley is a farming simulator where players manage a farm, raise animals, and interact with townsfolk. With freedom to fish, mine, and even explore caves, it’s a relaxing, open-ended game that players can shape as they wish.

Plot: You inherit a rundown farm from your grandfather, leaving the city to build a new life in the small town of Pelican Town.

Best For: Fans of farming sims, life-simulation games, and slow-paced, relaxing gameplay.

Key Highlights:

Extensive farm management with crop growing, livestock, and more
Engaging social interactions with the town’s residents
Open-ended gameplay that encourages creativity

Average Playtime: 50-100+ hours.

64. Darkest Dungeon (2018)

Darkest Dungeon is a challenging, gothic roguelike RPG where players recruit heroes to explore cursed dungeons. Its stress mechanic adds a layer of strategy, as characters may succumb to fear and despair.

Plot: A group of adventurers delves into dangerous dungeons to reclaim a family estate from dark forces.

Best For: Players who enjoy challenging, turn-based RPGs with a dark atmosphere.

Key Highlights:

Unique stress system for characters, impacting performance
Dark, atmospheric art style
Permadeath mechanics and tough strategic choices

Average Playtime: 40-60 hours.

65. Monster Sanctuary (2020)

Monster Sanctuary is a mix of monster-collecting and RPG elements, where players tame and battle creatures, each with unique abilities and upgrade trees. Exploration and strategic team-building are essential.

Plot: You play as a Monster Keeper, aiming to protect the balance between humans and monsters in the Monster Sanctuary.

Best For: Fans of monster-collecting games and strategy RPGs.

Key Highlights:

Deep RPG mechanics with team-based combat
Exploration combined with monster-collecting
Engaging skill trees and upgrades for each monster

Average Playtime: 25-30 hours.

66. For the King (2018)

For the King is a turn-based roguelike where players explore a procedurally-generated world filled with monsters, quests, and treasures. Each playthrough is different, with combat and exploration elements.

Plot: The kingdom is in chaos after the king’s death, and players are tasked with fighting back against dark forces spreading across the land.

Best For: Fans of tactical RPGs and cooperative strategy games.

Key Highlights:

Turn-based combat and procedurally generated maps
Solo or multiplayer cooperative gameplay
Permadeath mechanics add tension and strategy

Average Playtime: 10-15 hours per campaign; highly replayable.

67. Chasm (2018)

Chasm is a Metroidvania-style action-adventure game where players explore a dungeon with procedurally generated rooms and enemies. It combines retro platforming with modern roguelike elements.

Plot: A rookie soldier investigates a mysterious mine, battling creatures and discovering secrets.

Best For: Metroidvania fans and players who enjoy exploration-heavy games.

Key Highlights:

Retro-inspired visuals and platforming gameplay
Randomized dungeons for replayability
Variety of enemies and secrets to uncover

Average Playtime: 10-12 hours.

68. West of Loathing (2017)

West of Loathing is a comedic RPG set in a spaghetti western world. With stick-figure characters and quirky humor, it features puzzles, turn-based combat, and plenty of humor.

Plot: Players journey westward to seek their fortune, encountering bandits, zombies, and other odd characters in a whimsical, cartoonish Wild West.

Best For: Fans of humor-filled RPGs and adventure games.

Key Highlights:

Unique, stick-figure art style
Hilarious writing and creative quests
Mix of RPG and puzzle elements

Average Playtime: 6-8 hours.

69. Golf Story (2017)

Golf Story is an RPG where players compete in golf tournaments and complete missions across quirky courses. It mixes golfing mechanics with RPG elements and humor.

Plot: You play as an aspiring golfer trying to make it big, meeting oddball characters and participating in diverse challenges.

Best For: Fans of casual sports games and RPGs with humor.

Key Highlights:

Golf gameplay mixed with RPG quests
Charming, pixel-art visuals
Fun storyline with engaging dialogue

Average Playtime: 10-15 hours.

70. Octopath Traveler (2018)

Octopath Traveler is a JRPG featuring eight characters, each with their own unique story. The game combines retro pixel art with 3D environments and strategic turn-based combat.

Plot: Each character embarks on a personal quest, with their paths intertwining in the game’s expansive world.

Best For: JRPG enthusiasts and players who love character-driven stories.

Key Highlights:

Beautiful HD-2D graphics
Eight unique character storylines
Strategic, turn-based combat

Average Playtime: 50-60 hours.

71. Hand of Fate 2 (2017)

Hand of Fate 2 combines card-based gameplay with action elements. Players draw cards that determine encounters, battles, and story events, blending RPG with deck-building.

Plot: A mysterious dealer guides you through a series of trials, each determined by your deck of cards.

Best For: Players who enjoy unique card-based mechanics with action RPG elements.

Key Highlights:

Innovative card-based adventure system
Real-time combat and RPG progression
Highly replayable with varied encounters

Average Playtime: 10-15 hours.

72. Wargroove (2019)

Wargroove is a turn-based strategy game inspired by Advance Wars, where players lead units and commanders in tactical battles. The game also includes a map editor and campaign creation tools.

Plot: The kingdom of Cherrystone faces a mysterious invasion, and players lead forces to protect it.

Best For: Fans of tactical strategy games.

Key Highlights:

Customizable maps and campaigns
Engaging, retro-style pixel art
Multiplayer modes and cross-platform support

Average Playtime: 20-30 hours.

73. Salt and Sanctuary (2018)

Salt and Sanctuary is a 2D action RPG inspired by Souls-like mechanics, featuring challenging combat and exploration in a dark, gothic world.

Plot: A shipwrecked traveler must survive on a hostile island filled with dangerous creatures.

Best For: Fans of challenging, atmospheric RPGs with exploration.

Key Highlights:

Souls-like mechanics with challenging combat
Dark, atmospheric visuals
RPG elements with skill progression

Average Playtime: 15-20 hours.

74. ATOM RPG (2019)

ATOM RPG is a post-apocalyptic RPG inspired by classic Fallout games. Players explore a world devastated by nuclear war, encountering factions, quests, and survival challenges.

Plot: As a survivor, you explore a post-nuclear wasteland, discovering secrets and factions vying for control.

Best For: Fans of classic RPGs and post-apocalyptic settings.

Key Highlights:

Open-ended exploration in a harsh, detailed world
Character customization and turn-based combat
Deep questing and faction interactions

Average Playtime: 30-50 hours.

75. Banner Saga Trilogy (2018)

The Banner Saga Trilogy is a tactical RPG set in a Norse-inspired world. The series follows a group of characters on a journey to survive, facing tough decisions that impact the story.

Plot: Players guide clans through a bleak world, dealing with loss, betrayal, and survival.

Best For: Fans of story-driven tactical RPGs.

Key Highlights:

Choice-driven story that spans all three games
Tactical combat with unique characters
Beautiful hand-drawn art and animation

Average Playtime: 30-40 hours.

76. Into the Breach (2018)

Into the Breach is a tactical roguelike game where players command mechs to defend cities from giant monsters, using grid-based strategy and planning to prevent destruction.

Plot: Humanity fights a last-stand battle against alien creatures, sending time-traveling pilots to change history.

Best For: Tactical strategy fans and players who enjoy turn-based mechanics.

Key Highlights:

Tight, grid-based combat that rewards planning
Randomized maps and upgrades for replayability
Simple but challenging mechanics

Average Playtime: 5-10 hours.

77. Grindstone (2020)

Grindstone is an engaging puzzle game that blends action and strategy as players slice through hordes of colorful monsters by chaining attacks in a unique color-matching mechanic. With its vibrant art style and intuitive gameplay, players must think critically about their moves to maximize their scores and complete levels. The game offers a satisfying mix of puzzle-solving and combat, keeping players hooked as they strive to climb the challenging Grindstone Mountain.

Plot: Players take on the role of a warrior determined to reach the treasure hidden at the top of Grindstone Mountain. To achieve this goal, they must battle their way through various levels filled with different monsters. Each level presents a puzzle-like challenge where players must connect matching colored monsters in a series of attacks to earn points and bonuses. The journey involves overcoming obstacles, discovering new abilities, and collecting resources to aid in the quest for glory.

Best For: Fans of puzzle games with action elements.

Key Highlights:

Addictive puzzle mechanics with combat elements
Vibrant, cartoonish art style
Plenty of levels and challenges

Average Playtime: 15-20 hours.

78. Frostpunk (2021)

Frostpunk is a gripping city-building survival game set in a frozen, post-apocalyptic world where players must manage a city’s survival against extreme weather conditions. As the last remnants of humanity grapple with the harsh realities of a new ice age, every decision made by the player impacts not only the city’s resources but also the morale and well-being of its citizens. The game features a striking art style and an emotionally charged narrative that challenges players to think critically about leadership and ethics.

Plot: In a world devastated by a volcanic winter, humanity has retreated to a central generator that provides the only source of heat and survival. Players assume the role of the city’s leader, tasked with making tough choices to ensure the survival of the populace. Balancing resources such as coal, food, and wood is crucial, but so is maintaining hope and faith among the citizens. As players face moral dilemmas—like whether to enforce laws that might infringe on personal freedoms or to prioritize the needs of the majority over the few—their decisions will shape the society they are trying to save.

Best For: Fans of city-building with survival and moral choices.

Key Highlights:

Harsh survival mechanics combined with city management
Thought-provoking moral choices
Challenging scenarios and decision-making

Average Playtime: 15-30 hours.

79. Dicey Dungeons (2019)

Dicey Dungeons is a creative roguelike deck-building game that combines luck and strategy as players navigate a colorful and whimsical world. In this game, you roll dice to determine your actions in turn-based battles, making each encounter both unpredictable and strategic. The quirky art style and humorous characters add charm to the experience, making it appealing for both casual and hardcore gamers.

Plot: Players take on the role of a contestant in a bizarre game show run by Lady Luck. Trapped in a magical dungeon, you must battle your way through various challenges and enemies, using dice-based attacks and abilities. Each character class offers a unique playstyle, with different dice manipulation mechanics that influence gameplay.

Best For: Players who enjoy dice-based mechanics and roguelike games.

Key Highlights:

Unique dice mechanics in a roguelike format
Lighthearted, colorful visuals
Diverse character classes and challenges

Average Playtime: 10-15 hours.

80. The Flame in the Flood (2017)

The Flame in the Flood is a gripping survival game that takes players on a journey down a procedurally generated river in a post-apocalyptic world. As you navigate the waterways, you’ll need to scavenge for resources, craft essential items, and contend with various dangers, such as wildlife and hunger.

Plot: Players assume the role of a young woman named Scout, accompanied by her loyal dog, Aesop. After society has collapsed, Scout must navigate the river while searching for supplies and shelter. As they drift downstream, players will encounter various challenges, including dangerous animals, harsh weather conditions, and the ever-present threat of starvation.

Best For: Fans of survival games and exploration-based gameplay.

Key Highlights:

Beautiful, handcrafted art style and soundtrack
Challenging survival mechanics with crafting
Randomly generated environments for replayability

Average Playtime: 8-10 hours.

Simulation & Management

81. Spiritfarer (2020)

Spiritfarer is a heartfelt management game that invites players to step into the role of Stella, a ferrymaster tasked with guiding spirits to the afterlife. In this cozy and beautifully animated game, players build and customize their boat, gather resources, and fulfill the final wishes of the spirits they encounter. The blend of management mechanics with a touching narrative creates a unique experience that emphasizes the themes of friendship, loss, and acceptance.

Plot: As the Spiritfarer, Stella helps spirits navigate their final moments before passing on to the next life. Players encounter a variety of charming characters, each with their own backstories and requests. To honor their memories, Stella must complete tasks such as growing their favorite foods, crafting items, and providing companionship. The game beautifully balances lighthearted gameplay with emotional storytelling, allowing players to form bonds with the spirits and ultimately say farewell when they are ready to move on.

Best For: Fans of relaxing games with meaningful storytelling.

Key Highlights:

Heartfelt story with themes of friendship and loss
Beautiful hand-drawn visuals
Engaging gameplay with crafting, fishing, and cooking

Average Playtime: 20-30 hours.

82. Haven Park (2021)

Haven Park is a charming life simulation game where players help Flint, a young bird, restore and manage his grandmother’s beloved campground. Set on a picturesque island, players will build and upgrade various camping facilities, attract visitors, and create a welcoming atmosphere for nature lovers. The game combines elements of exploration, crafting, and community-building, all wrapped in a delightful art style and heartwarming storyline.

Plot: After the passing of his grandmother, Flint embarks on a mission to preserve her legacy by reviving the family campsite. As he welcomes visitors to the campground, players assist him in building tents, campfires, and amenities while exploring the island’s beauty. Throughout the game, Flint discovers the joy of connecting with others and finds happiness in nurturing a sense of community among the campers.

Best For: Players who enjoy casual, relaxing games with light management.

Key Highlights:

Simple resource management and campsite building
Cute and charming visual style
Low-stress exploration and light quests

Average Playtime: 3-5 hours.

83. Slime Rancher: Plortable Edition (2021)

Slime Rancher: Plortable Edition is a delightful farming simulator that immerses players in a colorful world filled with adorable slimes. As ranchers on the vibrant planet of Far, Far Range, players capture, raise, and breed various types of slimes while managing their ranch and collecting resources. The game combines exploration, farming, and a touch of adventure, all presented with charming graphics and a whimsical atmosphere.

Plot: Players step into the shoes of Beatrix LeBeau, a spirited young rancher who ventures to an alien world to pursue her dream of becoming a successful slime rancher. In this vibrant environment, Beatrix captures slimes, each with its unique traits and behaviors, and raises them on her ranch. As she explores the beautiful landscapes, she collects resources, discovers new slime varieties, and unravels the mysteries of the planet, all while striving to create a thriving ranch.

Best For: Fans of farming sims and players who love colorful, non-combat gameplay.

Key Highlights:

Adorable, engaging gameplay with slime collection and management
Open-world exploration with different slime types
Light-hearted and family-friendly

Average Playtime: 10-15 hours.

84. Overcooked! All You Can Eat (2020)

Overcooked! All You Can Eat is a wildly fun and chaotic cooking simulation game that emphasizes teamwork and communication as players work together to prepare dishes in a variety of outrageous kitchen environments. This comprehensive edition includes all levels from both Overcooked! games, featuring remastered visuals and improved gameplay mechanics. With its fast-paced action and humorous scenarios, players must coordinate their efforts to meet the demands of increasingly frantic customers.

Plot: In Overcooked! All You Can Eat, players take on the roles of quirky chefs racing against the clock to prepare and serve meals in absurd kitchen settings, from moving trucks to floating islands. The story unfolds as the chefs embark on a quest to save the Onion Kingdom from a mysterious threat. Each level presents new challenges and requires players to navigate obstacles, manage time efficiently, and collaborate effectively to keep customers happy and the kitchen running smoothly.

Best For: Fans of cooperative multiplayer and party games.

Key Highlights:

Fast-paced, teamwork-based gameplay
Over 200 levels with increasing difficulty
Local and online multiplayer

Average Playtime: Varies, but each level lasts a few minutes.

85. Good Job! (2020)

Good Job! is a whimsical puzzle game that challenges players to complete a series of quirky office tasks using creative—and often hilariously destructive—methods. Set in a colorful corporate environment, players take on various roles as they navigate each level, which features unique challenges that require inventive solutions. The game combines humor with fun mechanics, encouraging players to think outside the box while often embracing chaos.

Plot: As the clumsy child of the CEO, you find yourself trying to prove your worth within the company by tackling a variety of jobs around the office. Each level presents a different task, such as delivering supplies, fixing the internet, or arranging furniture, but there’s a catch: you often end up creating more chaos than order. Players will use unconventional methods to complete these tasks, leading to hilarious outcomes that showcase the game’s playful nature. The goal is to impress your boss while navigating the challenges of office life.

Best For: Puzzle game enthusiasts who enjoy humorous, sandbox-style gameplay.

Key Highlights:

Physics-based puzzles with a humorous twist
Destructible environments that encourage experimentation
Solo or co-op multiplayer

Average Playtime: 6-8 hours.

86. Two Point Hospital (2018)

Two Point Hospital is a management simulation game that tasks players with designing, building, and operating a hospital in a vibrant and humorous world. Players must treat a variety of comical diseases while managing resources, hiring staff, and ensuring patient satisfaction. With its charming art style and quirky humor, the game offers an engaging experience that combines strategy with creativity in hospital management.

Plot: As the new administrator of a series of hospitals in Two Point County, players are responsible for creating a healthcare empire. The journey begins in a small town hospital, where players must expand their facilities, upgrade equipment, and hire specialized staff to treat an array of eccentric ailments, such as “Lightheadedness” and “Humour-ism.” As players progress, they unlock new hospitals in different locations, each with unique challenges and opportunities to improve healthcare services.

Best For: Fans of management simulators and humorous, light-hearted gameplay.

Key Highlights:

Detailed hospital management with humorous ailments
Ability to design and expand hospital layout
Quirky staff and unique patient interactions

Average Playtime: 20-30 hours.

87. My Time at Portia (2019)

My Time at Portia is a delightful life-simulation RPG that invites players to step into the shoes of a young builder who inherits a workshop in the charming town of Portia. Players are tasked with restoring the workshop to its former glory by gathering resources, crafting a wide variety of items, and engaging in numerous activities around town. The game combines elements of farming, crafting, and relationship-building, providing a rich and immersive experience.

Plot: After inheriting your father’s workshop, you arrive in Portia with dreams of becoming a successful builder. Players must gather materials, craft tools and furniture, and complete commissions for the townspeople to earn their respect and build a name for themselves. Along the way, players will uncover the secrets of Portia, interact with colorful characters, and take part in various events and festivals, all while developing their workshop into a thriving business.

Best For: Fans of life-sim games like Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing.

Key Highlights:

Open-world crafting and farming mechanics
Building relationships with townsfolk
Crafting, building, and light combat

Average Playtime: 50-60 hours.

88. Littlewood (2020)

Littlewood is a charming life simulation and town-building game that invites players to create and manage their own cozy settlement after defeating a dark wizard. With a focus on resource management, crafting, and community-building, players can shape the town according to their vision, all while interacting with quirky villagers who each have their own stories and needs. The game combines relaxation with creative freedom, allowing players to enjoy a laid-back experience filled with delightful tasks.

Plot: After saving the world from a dark wizard, you take on the role of a hero who has chosen to leave the adventures behind and focus on building a peaceful life. As you settle in, you work to restore the town, help villagers with their requests, and create a welcoming environment. Each day presents new opportunities to gather resources, craft items, and engage in various activities, such as fishing, farming, and decorating your home.

Best For: Players who love village-building and relaxing life-sim gameplay.

Key Highlights:

Customize and expand your town
Manage relationships with unique townsfolk
Open-ended gameplay with no pressure

Average Playtime: 20-30 hours.

89. Oxygen Not Included (2019)

Oxygen Not Included is a challenging survival simulation game that places players in control of a colony of duplicants—small, clone-like characters—stranded in an underground asteroid base. Players must manage the delicate balance of limited resources, including oxygen, food, and heat while navigating a complex environment filled with various hazards. With its intricate systems and engaging mechanics, the game offers a unique blend of strategy, management, and problem-solving.

Plot: Players start with a small group of duplicants who must work together to survive in the harsh conditions of the asteroid. As they dig deeper into the rock, they encounter various challenges, such as toxic gases, fluctuating temperatures, and the need for sustainable food sources. The objective is to create a thriving colony by researching technologies, managing oxygen production, and building complex systems to ensure the duplicants’ survival.

Best For: Fans of challenging simulation and resource management games.

Key Highlights:

Deep simulation mechanics focused on survival
Intricate resource and environmental management
Endless replayability with random asteroid layouts

Average Playtime: 20-60 hours.

90. Autonauts (2020)

Autonauts is a charming simulation game that merges automation with crafting, allowing players to build and manage a self-sustaining society on an alien planet. As players explore this vibrant world, they collect resources, farm, and craft various items while programming adorable robots to automate these tasks. The game’s emphasis on creativity and problem-solving encourages players to experiment with different systems, leading to a unique and satisfying gameplay experience.

Plot: After being stranded on a colorful alien planet, players take on the role of a pioneer who sets out to create a thriving settlement. The goal is to gather resources and develop technology, all while teaching and programming robots to handle tasks such as farming, building, and crafting. As players progress, they can expand their settlement and develop increasingly complex systems, transforming the planet into a bustling hub of automation.

Best For: Fans of automation, programming, and sandbox games.

Key Highlights:

Bot programming to automate tasks
Sandbox creativity with diverse building possibilities
Relaxing gameplay loop with limitless expansion

Average Playtime: 20-30 hours.

91. Factorio (2020)

Factorio is a highly engaging simulation game where players design and build intricate factories to automate the gathering of resources, crafting of items, and management of logistics. Set on an alien planet, players must utilize strategic planning and problem-solving skills to create efficient production lines while optimizing their factory layouts. The game offers deep mechanics that reward creativity and experimentation, making it a favorite among fans of management and simulation genres.

Plot: After crash-landing on a distant alien world, players must gather resources to construct a spacecraft for their escape. To do this, they start from scratch, mining materials and building factories. However, as the factories grow, they must fend off the local alien wildlife that becomes hostile due to pollution. Players must balance expansion with defense, creating complex systems to automate both production and protection.

Best For: Players who love logistics, automation, and large-scale building games.

Key Highlights:

Complex systems for resource automation and logistics
Real-time building and problem-solving
Highly addictive, endless gameplay possibilities

Average Playtime: 50-100+ hours.

92. Untitled Goose Game (2019)

Untitled Goose Game is a delightful and humorous stealth puzzle game where players step into the webbed feet of a mischievous goose. Set in a quaint English village, players embark on a quest to create chaos by stealing items, honking at unsuspecting villagers, and completing various silly objectives. The game’s charming visuals, playful soundtrack, and engaging mechanics provide a fun and lighthearted experience that encourages creative problem-solving.

Plot: As a cheeky goose, your mission is to wreak havoc in a peaceful village. You complete a series of playful objectives, such as stealing a farmer’s hat, trapping a child in a phone booth, or causing a picnic to be ruined. Each objective adds to the chaos and hilarity as you interact with the townspeople and navigate through their daily lives, all while avoiding being caught.

Best For: Fans of humorous, sandbox-style games.

Key Highlights:

Simple controls with humorous scenarios
Open-ended mischief with creative solutions
Iconic art style and unique humor

Average Playtime: 2-3 hours.

93. Cult of the Lamb (2022)

Cult of the Lamb is an action-roguelike game that combines charming visuals with dark themes. Players take on the role of a lamb who has been saved from sacrifice and is tasked with building a cult to repay a mysterious deity. Throughout the game, players will explore procedurally generated lands, battle various enemies, and recruit followers to expand their cult. The unique blend of management and action elements keeps gameplay fresh and engaging, with a vibrant art style that contrasts with its eerie narrative.

Plot: After being rescued from a sacrificial fate by a powerful, enigmatic entity, the lamb is called to gather followers and build a cult. As players venture into dangerous lands, they confront adversaries, complete quests, and convert other animals into devoted followers.

Best For: Players who enjoy darkly themed management and roguelikes.

Key Highlights:

Blend of base-building and roguelike action
Dark humor and cartoonish graphics
Strategic follower management

Average Playtime: 15-20 hours.

94. The Long Dark (2017)

The Long Dark is a survival game that immerses players in a vast, snowy wilderness where they must navigate harsh conditions and manage limited resources to stay alive. Set in a post-apocalyptic world following a geomagnetic disaster, players face the relentless challenges of extreme cold, hunger, and wildlife threats. With a focus on realism and atmospheric storytelling, The Long Dark offers a unique take on survival gameplay, combining exploration and resource management in a beautifully crafted environment.

Plot: After a mysterious geomagnetic disaster disrupts technology, players assume the role of Will Mackenzie, a pilot stranded in the desolate Canadian wilderness. As Will, players must scavenge for supplies, hunt for food, and find shelter while enduring freezing temperatures and dangerous wildlife, including wolves and bears.

Best For: Fans of survival games with realistic challenges.

Key Highlights:

Harsh, realistic winter survival
Atmospheric storytelling and environments
Multiple modes for variety in gameplay

Average Playtime: 30-40 hours.

95. A Short Hike (2019)

A Short Hike is a charming and relaxing exploration game where players control a young bird named Claire as she embarks on a journey to hike up a beautiful, serene mountain. The game encourages players to explore the lush landscapes, discover hidden treasures, and interact with quirky characters who inhabit the island. With its simple mechanics and delightful art style, A Short Hike provides a soothing experience that emphasizes exploration and discovery.

Plot: As Claire, players set out to explore a peaceful island and make their way to the highest peak to receive a mobile signal. Along the way, they encounter various friendly animals, each with their own stories and tasks. As Claire climbs, she uncovers secrets about the island, enjoys the scenery, and embraces the joys of exploration.

Best For: Fans of exploration games with no rush.

Key Highlights:

Calming visuals and soothing music
Open exploration with rewarding interactions
Short, impactful experience

Average Playtime: 2-3 hours.

96. Don’t Starve: Nintendo Switch Edition (2018)

Don’t Starve is a dark, quirky survival game that challenges players to navigate a harsh, randomly generated wilderness filled with dangers. Players must collect resources, craft tools, and build shelters while managing their hunger, health, and sanity. The game’s art style and eerie atmosphere creates a unique and immersive experience as players face both the elements and a variety of strange creatures.

Plot: After being trapped in a mysterious world by a sinister entity, players take on the role of Wilson, a scientist who must survive by gathering materials, crafting items, and uncovering the secrets of this bizarre land. Along the way, players encounter various characters and creatures, each with their own quirks and challenges.

Best For: Players who enjoy challenging survival games with a unique art style.

Key Highlights:

Gothic visuals and eerie atmosphere
Deep survival mechanics
Procedurally generated worlds

Average Playtime: 10-20 hours.

97. Among Us (2018)

Among Us is a wildly popular social deduction game where players take on the roles of crewmates working together to complete tasks on a spaceship. However, hidden among them are imposters who secretly sabotage the mission and try to eliminate crewmates without being discovered. This mix of teamwork, deception, and quick thinking has made Among Us a hit for both casual and competitive players.

Plot: Crewmates work to repair their spaceship by completing tasks, but the imposters work to secretly undermine the mission. They must identify and vote out the imposters before the imposters eliminate everyone else, creating tense and hilarious scenarios.

Best For: Fans of social games and multiplayer strategy.

Key Highlights:

Thrilling social deduction mechanics
Customizable characters and settings
Fun with friends or online

Average Playtime: Varies by session.

98. Spirit of the North (2019)

Spirit of the North is a visually stunning, atmospheric adventure game where players explore breathtaking Nordic landscapes as a red fox. Guided by a mystical fox spirit, players solve nature-inspired puzzles and journey through serene forests, snowy mountains, and ancient ruins. With no dialogue, the game relies on environmental storytelling to uncover the history and magic of this mysterious land.

Plot: A lone red fox finds itself connected to a spirit fox that leads it through the remnants of an ancient civilization. As the fox, players unlock forgotten secrets, unraveling the mysteries left behind in a land touched by both beauty and decay.

Best For: Fans of atmospheric, narrative-driven games.

Key Highlights:

Stunning landscapes and serene soundtrack
Minimalist storytelling without dialogue
Puzzles based on exploration

Average Playtime: 4-5 hours.

99. Yonder: The Cloud Catcher Chronicles (2017)

Yonder is a peaceful, open-world adventure where players explore the lush, colorful island of Gemea, helping villagers, farming, crafting, and fishing, all while uncovering the island’s hidden mysteries. With no combat, the game focuses on creativity, exploration, and connecting with the land and its inhabitants.

Plot: As a young traveler arriving on Gemea, players work to help the villagers and dispel a dark force known as the Murk, which has spread across the land. Through exploration and assisting locals, you piece together the island’s history and bring harmony back to the community.

Best For: Fans of casual exploration games and farming.

Key Highlights:

Open-ended gameplay without combat
Beautiful landscapes and charming villagers
Light farming and crafting

Average Playtime: 10-15 hours.

100. The Survivalists (2020)

And finally we have The Survivalists! An awesome cooperative survival game where players gather resources, craft tools, and tame monkeys to help survive on a deserted island. Explore, build shelters, and fend off wild animals and mythical creatures as you uncover the island’s secrets.

Plot: Stranded on an enigmatic island, you are tasked with gathering resources, exploring the island’s mysteries, and battling strange creatures. As you build a life for yourself, you uncover hidden secrets about the island, ancient ruins, and the means to escape—or thrive indefinitely.

Best For: Fans of survival games with cooperative elements.

Key Highlights:

Monkey training mechanics for unique helpers
Co-op multiplayer for up to four players
Diverse island exploration

Average Playtime: 15-20 hours.

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