The indie gaming scene continues to thrive with a wave of fresh releases and upcoming titles capturing players’ attention. This week highlights include the early access launch of Slay the Spire 2, the new Scott Pilgrim EX side-scroller, and several other notable indie games available across platforms like Steam, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Recent Releases Making Waves
Slay the Spire 2, the sequel to the popular roguelite deckbuilder, recently entered early access on Steam priced at $25. The developers plan to keep it in early access for up to two years while experimenting with new features and gathering player feedback. A notable addition is a co-op mode for up to four players, alongside fresh cards, characters, and enemies.
Scott Pilgrim EX launches as a new side-scrolling fighter where players help Scott Pilgrim rescue his bandmates from demons. Developed by Tribute Games, known for co-op beat-em-ups, it features a new storyline created with input from the franchise’s original creator. The game is available on Steam, Nintendo Switch (including Switch 2), Xbox, and PlayStation for $29.
Other recent titles include Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf, a narrative-driven adventure platformer praised for its beauty and gameplay enhancements. It is out on Steam, multiple console platforms, and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Distinctive New Indie Experiences
The Legend of Khiimori offers an open-world adventure set in 13th century Mongolia where players ride horses gifted with unique abilities. It launched in early access on Steam and Epic Games Store and promises ongoing updates like racing and falconry.
Lost and Found Co. is a charming hidden object game available on Steam, featuring a whimsical story about a duck turned human helping others find their lost items.
Birds Watching introduces players to a bird-spotting psychological horror walking simulator with a mysterious and eerie atmosphere. Priced affordably on Steam, it provides a different style of indie gaming experience.
Upcoming Indie Games to Watch
My Little Puppy is a heartfelt narrative game inspired by a developer’s real-life dog. It centers on a puppy’s adventure to reunite with his human, coming to Switch later this year, with the Steam version already available.
The House of Hikmah, scheduled for Steam release in early April, is a 3D story-driven adventure set in the Islamic Golden Age, following a young girl solving puzzles with elemental powers.
The upcoming Ballgame brings a physics-based platformer experience where players control a sentient ball navigating complex levels reminiscent of golf and pinball mechanics. It’s slated for a later release on Steam.
Notable Indie Releases with Unique Styles
Ratcheteer DX brings a colorful update to a fan-favorite top-down pixel-art adventure originally released on the Playdate console. Available on Steam, Nintendo Switch, and Mac App Store, it features improved visuals and soundtrack quality.
Echobreaker is an upcoming precision platformer with an isometric perspective and futuristic aesthetic, aiming to provide fast-paced gameplay with powerups and enemy battles. It is expected to debut on Steam later this year.
Community and Sales Highlights
Indie gamers can engage with ongoing sales, such as the Playdate Catalog’s third anniversary event offering discounts on many titles. Additionally, Steam is hosting a Women’s Day sale featuring games from women and gender marginalized-led teams at generous discounts through mid-March.
Charity events like Frost Fatales, hosted by Games Done Quick, spotlight women and femme speedrunners competing in a variety of indie and AAA titles, raising funds for the National Women’s Law Center.
