E3 2018 gifts us with a great variety of indie games that are more than worth looking into. Here are just a few that really stood out.
E3 sets the stage for game studios to wow the crowd, announcing exciting new developments or revealing new AAA game titles. While games like the new Super Smash Bros. Ultimate or Marvel’s Spider-man create huge waves that ripple across the internet, indie games such as Sea of Solitude manage to steal considerable buzz and excitement, overshadowing even some of the largest AAA franchises (looking at you, CoD). While larger game corporations to pump out sequels and remakes, the indie scene continues to provide gamers with creativity and great variety. It’s hard choosing which of the many games shown at E3 are the “best,” and frankly, we shouldn’t even try. But there were some games that simply caught our attention better than others, whether through their unique concepts, captivating game environments, or gripping story elements. Here is our pick of 15 indie games that we’ll be watching closely.
Sea Of Solitude
Platform: PS4, Xbox One, Windows
Developer: Jo-Mei
Release: Early 2019
Delve into a world where when humans get too lonely, they become monsters. Play as Kay, a character who has already become a monster and must find the help of other monsters to turn back. Sea of Solitude features stunning artwork and environments guaranteed to suck players in. The game trailer displays a unique feel to it that you simply must see for yourself. Calming, yet dark and depressing; but over all else, lonely.
We Happy Few
Platform: PS4, Xbox One, Windows
Developer: Compulsion Games
Release: August 10, 2018
We Happy Few takes place in an alternative 1960s England that emphasizes conformity. The story follows “a plucky bunch of moderately terrible people” attempting to escape Wellington Wells. Discover the truth behind this strange new world on the verge of collapse as occupants overuse hallucinogenic drugs that keep them unaware of the truth of their world. This first-person survival RPG focuses on strong narrative and morality and decision making, with decisions affecting the gameplay in later areas. We Happy Few draws influence from dystopian society such as those in 1984 and Brave New World.
My Friend Pedro
Platform: Windows
Developer: DeadToast Entertainment
Release: “Coming Soon”
My Friend Pedro wowed the crowd with its slick action and creative 2D platformer shooting that promises to make players feel like John Wick. Dive across tables in slow motion, deflect bullets off of a pan, or swing from a crane through a window as slaughter everyone inside. The gameplay must be seen to be believed and is EXACTLY the kind of insane platform shooter we’ve all been waiting for.
Sable
Platform: Xbox One, Windows
Developer: Shedworks
Release: 2019
Sable is one of the best and most unique looking games to come out of E3 2018. Follow this coming-of-age story across a striking open-world desert. Learn the rich history of an alien planet, and find Sable’s place in the world.
Ashen
Platform: Xbox One, Windows
Developer: Aurora44
Release: 2018
Ashen returns to E3 with new gameplay. Described as an action RPG that borrows heavily from Dark Souls, players play as a wanderer in a sunless land lit only by the light of your lamp. Interact with NPCs and build relationships as you navigate this dark world. Ashen promises some multiplayer in which you’ll meet players in your instance who are likely going about their own business, as well as open world exploration.
Tunic
Platform: Xbox One, Windows
Developer: Andrew Shouldice
Release: 2018
Tunic is a cute Zelda-like game featuring a fox with a tiny sword. The vibrant and simple art style turns heads, and the game promises to give the feeling of a small fox in a big world.
The Sinking City
Platform: Xbox One, Windows
Developer: Fogwares
Release: TBD
The Sinking City takes place in an open world 1920s Lovecraftian environment. Play as a private investigator working in a city in Massachusetts that was nearly destroyed by a flood caused by Lovecraftian deities. The city is completely flooded and requires boats for transportation. It even has fish people walking around, just in case you felt lonely. Lovers of the Lovecraftian lore will need to keep a close eye on this one.
Wargroove
Platform: Windows, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Developer: Chucklefish
Release: 2018
I’ve been watching Wargroove on twitter for a while and was excited to see its development. Wargroove is a turn-based tactical strategy game on a square grid similar to the likes of Fire Emblem. Lead your pixelated army into battle in an elaborate tactical battle expected of games of this kind. The game features 12+ commanders from 4 different factions, each with a lengthy campaign and elaborate character-driven story. The game supports local and online multiplayer and co-op. It even lets you create your own battlefields with its in-game map and campaign editor! These exciting developments make Wargroove an exciting addition to the genre.
Afterparty
Platform: Xbox One, Windows
Developer: Night School Studios
Release: 2019
Follow the story of two best friends, Milo and Lola, who have died and been straight to the underworld. Their only chance to get back to Earth is beating Satan in a drinking contest. Explore a world of alcohol, partying, karaoke, dancing, and socializing. The game uses social media within the world to help push the narrative. The result is a one-of-a-kind underworld environment filled with life and energy. You’ll want to get this game, even if only to experience the vibes.
Neo Cab
Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
Developer: Chance Agency
Release: TBD
Neo Cab is a cyberpunk visual novel played mostly through futuristic Uber rides. Experience the narrative though phone and customer interactions. Converse with NPCs and fight for a good rating while judging their responses and listening to their stories. Neo Cab provides an interactive tale focused on conversation and character, with a beautiful neon setting.
Unravel two
Platform: PS4, Xbox One, Windows
Developer: Coldwood Interactive
Release: Now!
Unravel two is a beautiful co-op game focused on tricky platforming and clever solutions involving yarn. The game can be played solo as well, prefer to play in solitude (haha). Spread light on a world of shadow as you solve thoughtful puzzles and tricks. The game’s puzzle mechanics revolve around working with your companion to overcome your obstacles, whether it be creating a swing, pulling your partner up, or acting as a counterweight. Pick this game up for the perfect couch co-op experience.
Overcooked 2
Platform: Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox One, Windows
Developer: Ghost Town Games Ltd., Team 17 Digital Ltd.
Release: August 7, 2018
The beloved couch co-op game returns, with new kitchens, food, characters, and maps. Play with a team of up to four chefs, cooking and filling orders in this absolute kitchen nightmare. Feel the stress of the ticking clock, and let chaos ensue.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Platform: PS4, Xbox One, Windows
Developer: Moon Studios
Release: 2019
Ori and the Will of the Wisps is the highly anticipated sequel to Ori and the Blind Forest, an award-winning platform adventure. In this new addition, players will resume control of Ori, a white guardian spirit, to solve puzzles and platform through the game world. The game is said to feature new and exciting upgradable powers, though not much else is known about what the new title holds in store.
My Memory of Us
Platform: Windows
Developer: Juggler Games
Release: Late 2018
My Memory of Us takes place during the occupation of Poland in the second world war. The story follows two children caught in the war, struggling to survive their circumstances and keep their friendship alive. The two children have different abilities, sneaking and sprinting, that will help you solve puzzles and avoid enemies. My Memory of Us presents a sweet story of friendship during a time of strife.
