As we mentioned in a previous article, The Best Indie Games You Should Play Right Now, the world of gaming has never been as big and full of opportunity as it is right now. From the looming holiday releases to the most obscure indie titles available, we scoured the Internet once more to bring you a list of these 10 indie games you should pick up on release day.
DISCLAIMER: Several of the games on this list are available as Early Access titles via Steam. Even though you can get these titles right now, we suggest waiting for official releases unless you are interested in helping test the games and being a part of the development process.
10. Starbound
Starbound is a side scrolling adventure that sends you into space, ready to make a new life for yourself. Gather resources, build massive compounds or explore thrilling dungeons filled with dangerous enemies. Tired of the planet you’re on? Grab some fuel and take to the stars in search of that perfect jungle paradise or hidden frozen moon. No matter where you go, the enemies are tough, the inhabitants are watching and you just might end up stranded somewhere you don’t want to be.
Available on Steam Early Access.
9. 7 Days to Die
Zombie Survival games have sprouted up left and right since the popular mod DayZ sparked a revolution in the survival world. 7 Days to Die is no different, but instead of going for a realistic approach like DayZ, it sees the world of zombie survival much in the same way Minecraft might. Crafting is a large component of the world and supplies are scarce. Whether you’re looting an abandoned home for food, or scouring the landscape for ammo and weapon parts, the world is unforgiving. No matter what you’re doing, make sure you have a safe place to camp for the night, because zombies get their strength from the darkness and their speed and hit stats dramatically increase. Time management has never been more important.
Available on Steam Early Access.
8. Rust
Created by the same guys behind Garry’s Mod, Rust brings a tough light to the world of zombie survival. Cities are riddled with radiation, and every new character begins naked and empty-handed, save for a rock you use to collect materials. Crafting is a large part of the world, allowing players to create fortifications and compounds. Create your own little home in the apocalypse, or venture out with friends to create a massive PVP style checkpoint. Best of all, Rust is currently receiving a massive overhaul to make it even better for the final release.
Available on Steam Early Access.
7. The Forest
Heralded as the survival game we might all be waiting for, The Forest drops the notion of zombies and instead thrusts the player onto an island inhabited by mutant cannibals. Food is scarce and you’ll need to hunt and gather berries, as well as fish and create your camp. Whatever you do, don’t draw the attention of the local inhabitants. They will only be curious for a little while until they decide you’re plump enough to cook over an open fire.
Available on Steam Early Access.
6. Volume
Created by the mastermind behind Thomas Was Alone, volume is an upcoming stealth game that follows the adventures of a futuristic Robin Hood character named Rob Locksley. Voiced by popular YouTube star Charlie Mcdonnel, Locksley is a thief who does not kill, but instead overcomes obstacles by sneaking, avoiding and distracting his enemies. He is never seen and seldom heard. Currently there isn’t a listed release date, but we’ll keep you updated as we find out more information.
5. Kerbal Space Program
Another Early Access title, Kerbal Space Program lets you create your own space center and ships as you race to successfully make it into space. Physics are your enemy, and the precious lives of your Kerbal space crew are in your hands. Build the fastest, largest or even most successful space vessel you can, and explore the wide-open world waiting for you in the stars.
Available on Steam Early Access.
4. Prison Architect
Sandbox games seem to be a favorite for indie game lovers, and Prison Architect is no different. Tasked with creating the most secure and profitable prison you can, your job is simple. Keep the prisoners in and make money, but nothing is ever as simple as it sounds. Rioting, constant influx of prisoners and the ever impending idea of someone digging a tunnel to freedom will keep you on your toes as your roster increases and your prison continues to expand.
Available on Steam Early Access.
3. Project Zomboid
The Indie Stone has been hard at work on Project Zomboid for a while now. What started as a shabby looking top down survival game expanded into a beautifully crafted world unlike any other. Build, farm, survive and scavenge to make it through the day, but be careful. That wall you’re currently constructing might draw the unwanted attention of a zombie horde. Unlike most zombie games, Project Zomboid isn’t about surviving, it’s about how you died, because let’s face it, you’re going to croak sooner or later.
Available on Steam Early Access.
2. DayZ
The game that sparked a revolution, DayZ started out as a mod for Arma 2 and quickly sprouted one of the largest fan-bases you’ll find on the Internet. The popularity of the mod led to development of a standalone edition, a feature-filled game dedicated only to DayZ and its growing popularity. Scavenge, craft, hunt and even fish to keep yourself alive, but always keep on eye open and watch your back. You never know what or who might be lurking in the next town.
Available on Steam Early Access.
1. Wasteland 2
Over 20 years in the making, Wasteland 2 is the sequel to one of the greatest games ever created. Finally, we’re going to explore the world of the Rangers for a second time. If you’ve never heard of the Wasteland Series, it inspired the entire Fallout franchise, and is the original post-apocalyptic strategy game. September 19 isn’t that far away, so it’s time to gear up. The desert is a hot unforgiving place. Do you have what it takes to keep your team alive?
Available on Steam Early Access.
