Indie games have proven to be fantastic alternatives to the endless stream of AAA blockbuster corridor shooters. Think about it this way: after a Die Hard marathon, isn’t it nice to mellow out with a Wes Anderson film, right? Now, I’m not saying I don’t like the AAA games. There are a time and a place for everything (Yes, even The Order: 1886). What I am saying is that we’re living in a veritable golden era of Independent gaming with programmers and fans alike clamoring for the next big thing in creative time killing. Independent developers are even legitimizing mobile apps and video gaming into a more respectable platform.
However, Indie games often fall into the same exact problems as the flawed big budget games: they focus all their time and resources on graphical presentation, rather than gameplay. This is a problem that is paralleled in both parts of the industry, but astute video game fans can still find quality games that offer the full package. This list covers the best looking (in terms of both art, and gameplay) indie games of 2015.
1.Ori and the Blind Forest
Platform: Xbox 360, Xbox One
Ori and the Blind Forest is a 2D platformer that not only looks great but plays great too. Those interested in “Metroidvania” style gameplay, but have no experience with either of the aforementioned should use this game as a solid intro to the niche. It’s as much fun to play as it is nice to look at and the art style looks like something straight out of a Hayao Miyazaki film (Spirited Away). However, don’t let the pleasant graphics fool you because this game is surprisingly difficult. Oh, and unlike the other games on this list you can actually play this game right now!
2.Cuphead
Platform: PC, Xbox One
Cuphead is one game you have to see in motion to truly appreciate. It’s a 2D platformer with a vintage aesthetic that draws inspiration from classic retro run-and-gun shooters like Contra and Battletoads. StudioMDHR has done a phenomenal job recreating that bouncy 1930’s cartoon look and feel and I’m a sucker for such a game that works in that kind of distinctive visual flair. What’s got me most excited is that the general consensus of previews state that Cuphead is a challenging joy to play.
3.Rime
Platform: PS4
Rime is a third person 3D open world dynamic puzzle solving game that blends the best of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and Ico into one breathtaking package. One notable component of Rime is that it features absolutely no combat. It’s primarily an adventure/puzzle game in the vein of Brothers: A Tale of Two Suns and that’s not a bad thing at all.
4.Hyper Light Drifer
Platform: PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Wii U, Ouya, Xbox One
Hyper Light Drifter is a 2D action RPG that initially started life on Kickstarter. The asked amount for this campaign was a modest $27,000 but ended up receiving a colossal $645,000. Thanks to eager contributors, it’s evolved from a stylized Zelda clone into something much more refined and polished. Judging from the gameplay videos, HyperLight Drifter should pose a compelling blend of Hotline Miami and Dark Souls and frankly, that sounds incredible.
5.Firewatch
Platform: PC
Firewatch is a first-person 3D adventure/mystery game with stylized cell shading set in the unlikely locale of the Wyoming wilderness. As the title suggests, you play as a fire lookout with your only contact to the outside world is a walkie-talkie. According to the developers, Campo Santo, you’ll be faced with moral questions that force you to make interpersonal choices that can build or destroy the only meaningful relationship you. The gameplay looks reminiscent of The Forest but without the crafting. Let’s hope Firewatch can achieve similar levels of creepiness as the Forest as well.
These 5 video games are the “best looking” Independent games of 2015. These games not only look fantastic but are also a joy to play.