5 Indie Games Inspired by Famous Books

Indie games often push the boundaries of creativity and storytelling, frequently drawing inspiration from classic literature to create immersive and thought-provoking experiences. Here are five indie games inspired by famous books that every gamer should explore.

Freud's Bones

Inspired by: The Interpretation of Dreams by Sigmund Freud

"Freud's Bones" delves into the intricate and complex world of Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis. The game is heavily influenced by Freud's seminal work, The Interpretation of Dreams, which explores the meaning and significance of dreams and the unconscious mind. The narrative of "Freud's Bones" intertwines with Freud's theories, placing players in a surreal adventure where they must psychoanalyze patients, navigate Freud's existential crises, and solve philosophical puzzles.

In "Freud's Bones" players assume the role of Freud's inner voice, guiding his actions and decisions through a series of psychological and existential challenges. The game offers a unique blend of historical context, psychological exploration, and philosophical inquiry. Players will immerse themselves in Freud's daily life, manage his interactions with patients, and uncover the mysteries surrounding his mental state and the enigmatic Egyptian artifacts that haunt his office.

Engaging with Freud's theories and the unconscious minds of his patients provides players with a deeper understanding of psychoanalysis and the complexities of the human psyche. The game also introduces historical elements of Freud's life, giving players insight into his contributions to psychology and the challenges he faced in his personal and professional life.

The Interpretation of Dreams, published in 1899 by Sigmund Freud, is a groundbreaking work that introduced the idea that dreams are a manifestation of our deepest desires and fears. Freud's theories on the unconscious mind have had a profound impact on psychology, making this book a cornerstone of psychoanalytic literature and an essential read for anyone interested in the workings of the human mind.

Pigsodus

Inspired by: Animal Farm by George Orwell

"Pigsodus" draws inspiration from George Orwell's Animal Farm, a political allegory about the rise of totalitarianism and the corruption of socialist ideals. While Orwell's novel critiques the betrayal of the Russian Revolution, "Pigsodus" uses a similar animal-based narrative to explore themes of survival, friendship, and resistance against oppression.

This point-and-click adventure game combines humor, RPG elements, and a compelling story about Horace Oinkstein, an intelligent pig on a quest to save his friends from a ruthless butcher. The game's charming pixel art, dynamic mini-games, and engaging puzzles create a captivating and thought-provoking experience. Players will enjoy the whimsical characters and the epic journey of Horace and his friends as they navigate the dangers of the Alaskan wilderness.

"Pigsodus" highlights themes of rebellion, resistance, and the fight against tyranny, drawing parallels to Orwell's critique of political corruption. The game also emphasizes the value of friendship, perseverance, and ingenuity in overcoming adversity. Through Horace's adventures, players will gain an appreciation for the complexities of social and political struggles.

Animal Farm, published in 1945 by George Orwell, is a satirical novella that uses farm animals to allegorize the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the subsequent rise of the Soviet Union. The novel's critique of power, corruption, and betrayal remains relevant today, making it a timeless piece of literature and a powerful commentary on the dangers of unchecked authority.

Out of the Hat

Inspired by: Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll and the works of H.P. Lovecraft

"Out of the Hat" blends the whimsical and bizarre elements of Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland with the dark and uncanny atmosphere of H.P. Lovecraft's horror stories. The game follows a little girl who, much like Alice, finds herself in a surreal and magical world. However, the presence of Lovecraftian elements adds a layer of horror and mystery, creating a unique narrative that challenges perceptions of reality and fear.

This puzzle platformer challenges players to navigate a world filled with magic, danger, and bizarre creatures. Using a stolen magical hat, players can solve puzzles and escape from threats by teleporting, adding an element of strategy and ingenuity to the gameplay. The game's atmosphere, inspired by Tim Burton and Terry Gilliam, combines dark fairy tale aesthetics with eerie, Lovecraftian horror.

"Out of the Hat" encourages players to think creatively and adapt to unexpected challenges. It explores themes of fear, resilience, and the power of imagination, teaching players to confront and overcome their inner demons. The game's narrative emphasizes that nothing is as it seems, reflecting the deeper psychological and existential themes found in both Carroll's and Lovecraft's works.

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, published in 1865 by Lewis Carroll, is a beloved children's story known for its imaginative characters and fantastical settings. H.P. Lovecraft, an early 20th-century writer, is famous for his cosmic horror stories that delve into the unknown and the unknowable, creating a sense of existential dread. Both authors have left a lasting impact on literature, influencing countless works of fiction and inspiring new generations of storytellers.

The Crown of Wu

Inspired by: Journey to the West by Wu Cheng'en

"The Crown of Wu" draws inspiration from the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West, which chronicles the adventures of the Monkey King, Sun Wukong. The game reimagines Sun Wukong's journey in a futuristic yet mythical setting, blending traditional Chinese mythology with modern gameplay elements to create a unique and engaging narrative.

This 3D action-adventure game allows players to harness elemental powers and solve intricate puzzles while battling enemies. Players will explore a beautifully designed world that merges ancient and futuristic elements, navigating complex environments and uncovering the mystery of the stolen Crown. The game's fresh combat system and parkour mechanics provide a dynamic and immersive experience.

Players will gain an appreciation for Chinese mythology and the legendary tales of Sun Wukong. The game's narrative of redemption and heroism offers valuable lessons on overcoming one's flaws and striving for greatness. By experiencing Sun Wukong's journey from anti-hero to hero, players can reflect on their own personal growth and challenges.

Journey to the West, written in the 16th century by Wu Cheng'en, is one of the Four Great Classical Novels of Chinese literature. It tells the story of the monk Xuanzang's pilgrimage to India to obtain sacred Buddhist texts, accompanied by his three disciples, including the mischievous and powerful Monkey King. The novel is a rich tapestry of adventure, mythology, and spiritual growth, making it a cornerstone of Chinese literary tradition.

Terror of the Vampire!

Inspired by: Dracula by Bram Stoker

"Terror of the Vampire!" takes cues from Bram Stoker's Dracula, the quintessential vampire novel. Set in a vaguely 19th-century Eastern Europe, the game follows Dr. Ego Goodmind as he researches vampire lore for his latest psychology book, while dealing with a supposed vampire threat. The game's setting and narrative draw heavily from the gothic horror and atmospheric tension of Stoker's classic tale.

This point-and-click adventure game features charming 8-bit graphics and an engaging storyline. Players will enjoy solving puzzles and uncovering the truth behind the vampire menace, all while navigating a world filled with superstition and fear. The game's blend of humor and horror, combined with its nostalgic pixel art style, offers a unique and entertaining experience.

"Terror of the Vampire!" introduces players to the gothic horror genre and the timeless appeal of vampire stories. It emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving as players navigate various challenges and unravel the mystery. The game's narrative also explores themes of superstition, fear, and the clash between science and folklore.

Dracula, published in 1897 by Bram Stoker, is a seminal work in gothic literature. The novel tells the story of Count Dracula's attempt to move from Transylvania to England to spread the undead curse, and the efforts of a group of people led by Professor Abraham Van Helsing to stop him. Dracula has profoundly influenced modern vampire lore and continues to be a cornerstone of horror fiction, exploring themes of fear, immortality, and the battle between good and evil.

These indie games not only offer engaging gameplay but also provide a deeper connection to some of the most influential works of literature. By blending interactive storytelling with classic narratives, these games create unique experiences that resonate with players on multiple levels.

Dive into these worlds and discover the rich literary inspirations behind them!

Top 2 Best Indie Games – June 2025

 

Discover June 2025’s top indiegames!

Discover the Top 2 Best Indie Games of June 2025 on indiexpo! Die to Play, a dice deckbuilder on a retro PC in a haunted English mansion, and Cold, a tiny #metroidvania where you recover lost gear and minerals in a freezing wilderness!

0:00 Die to Play developed by Kvinter Games

Die to Play — a deckbuilder with dice, set on a cozy retro computer inside a medieval English mansion filled with horrors and mysteries.

0:31 Cold developed by bobbiburrs

Recover equipment lost on a freezing expedition, and some mineral samples while you're there, in this tiny metroidvania adventure.

How to Increase Player Engagement on itch.io, indiexpo & GameJolt

When it comes to showcasing your work in the vast world of indie games, platforms like itch.io, indiexpo and GameJolt offer fertile ground to do so. However, gaining visibility and engaging a wider audience can be challenging. In this article, we will explore effective strategies to increase player engagement on these platforms, taking into account the peculiarities of each.

There are common Strategies for all those platforms:

• Eye-catching Presentation: Regardless of the platform, ensure that your game page is eye-catching and well-curated. Use high-quality previews, engaging descriptions, and meaningful screenshots to capture the attention of potential players. Showcase different gameplay stages, exciting moments, and unique features of your game.
• Engage with the Community: Actively participate in the platforms' communities. Comment on other games, join forums, and share your work in a genuine and non-intrusive way. Building relationships with other developers and players can lead to increased visibility for your game.
• Update and Interact: Keep your game updated and respond promptly to player feedback. Demonstrating a continuous commitment to improving your game and engaging with the community can help build trust and interest around your work.

Now, let's explore some specific strategies for each platform:

Strategies for itch.io:

• Utilize Versatility: On itch.io, you can publish both paid and free games. Take advantage of this flexibility to reach a broader audience and test different monetization strategies for your game.
• Diversify Screenshots: In addition to showcasing exciting gameplay moments, include screenshots that also highlight the aesthetics, atmosphere, and design of your game. On itch.io you can upload more screenshots. Diversifying screenshots can capture the attention of players with diverse interests.
• Jams. On itch.io there are a lot of Jams. What is a Jam? A game jam is a collaborative event where game developers come together to create games within a specified timeframe, usually ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks. These events often focus on a common theme or set of constraints, encouraging participants to explore new ideas, experiment with game mechanics, and produce innovative games within the given constraints. Jams foster creativity, teamwork, and rapid game development, leading to a diverse range of game prototypes and experiences.

Strategies for indiexpo:

• Engage the Community through Feedback: Seek feedback from the indiexpo community and use this information to improve your game. Demonstrating a commitment to responding to comments and working with the community can lead to increased visibility and appreciation for your work.
• Socials. indiexpo is very active on the Social Media. You can tag the main page to be shared or you can contact the Staff to have feedbacks.
• Harness Player Challenges: On indiexpo, player challenges are a great way to engage the community and generate interest around your game. Organize special events or encourage players to compete with each other for prizes or recognition.

You can check also this link to see... what is differece between indiexpo and other platfroms

Strategies for GameJolt:

• Build an Active Community: GameJolt has shifted its focus to communities, so focus on building and interacting with a dedicated fan base. Provide regular updates, post in the forum, and engage your players to keep interest alive in your game.
• Collaborate with Other Developers: GameJolt offers many opportunities for developer collaboration. Partner with other creators to organize events, cross-promotions, or even collaborative projects to increase your visibility on the platform.

Increasing player engagement on itch.io, indiexpo & GameJolt requires a mix of eye-catching presentation, community engagement, and platform-specific strategies. Make the most of the resources offered by these platforms and commit to interacting with the community to maximize the success of your indie game.

Good luck and happy developing!

Top 2 Best Indie Games – May 2025

 

Discover May 2025’s top indiegames!

Discover the Top 2 Best Indie Games of May 2025 on indiexpo! Watch gameplay from Droptic 2, a clever puzzle challenge, and Norfengul, a stunning Norse-inspired RPG Metroidvania. Dive into strategy, action, and epic adventures in this monthly showcase!

0:00 Norfengul developed by SapaStudio

In the frozen lands of Norfengul, where gods walk among mortals and the jarldoms wage war for survival, a young adventurer rises in search of a greater destiny. Guided by Gordalf, an eccentric, grumpy, and wise druid, he must journey through a vast and perilous world, facing mythical creatures, rival tribes, and the whims of ancient deities. With no unified rule, Norfengul is a land of chaos, where every choice can tip the balance toward glory or destruction. Will you be able to defeat the wrongdoers and forge a new future?

0:45 Droptic 2 developed by enotofil

Flood fill game revisited. Select column, drop block and see what happen. Fill bars on the left to explode bombs. Get the highest score you can.

Drag & Drop system to upload the screenshots!

 

News for the game devs! We just tested and added a new way to upload your screenshots! A drag & drop system! Now to replace the images will be easier and faster!

And not only! Now you can also select the Cover that you want to use for your game, pinning on "set as cover"! 

You will be able to upload images in png, jpg, jpeg, bmp and webp!

Veiled Edge combines action, platforming & hacking elements in a stylish Cyberpunk aesthetic!

After spending several immersive hours in Veiled Edge, we can confidently say that this title offers an experience that resonates deeply with fans of indie games. Set in the year 2099, Veiled Edge masterfully combines action, platforming, and hacking elements, all wrapped in a stylish cyberpunk aesthetic that’s both nostalgic and innovative.

An Evolving Journey Through Virtual Realms

From the moment you jump into Veiled Edge, you’re greeted by a narrative that’s as layered as it is engaging. You follow Rapid, a former special forces mercenary turned investigator for mega-corporation Citadel, and his brilliant partner Lena, a rookie hacker with a knack for breaching even the most secure systems.

Their mission? Investigate the disappearance of a child. But what seems like a routine case soon spirals into a multi-layered cyber-conspiracy.

Indie Charm and Developer Passion

Indie gamers will appreciate the beating heart behind Veiled Edge: iteration, feedback, and passion. The early demo showed promise but suffered from clunky controls and unpolished combat. Since then, the devs have actively listened to the community, fine-tuning everything from movement mechanics to level design.

Stunning Pixel Art and Cyberpunk Atmosphere

Let’s talk visuals. The pixel art is gorgeous—each frame looks like it was drawn with care. The cyberpunk aesthetic drenches every level in vibrant neon, glitch effects, and urban decay. Think Katana ZERO meets Flashback, with a touch of Blade Runner attitude.

Every chapter offers a new visual and gameplay theme, making each feel like a distinct indie short film.

Engaging Gameplay and Narrative Depth

The gameplay shines through its mix of platforming, combat, and hacking. Rapid handles the physical action, while Lena brings the brains with hacking minigames that alter maps and unlock new routes.

Combat is satisfying, hacking is smart, and puzzles never feel like filler. Together, they make for a gameplay loop that’s consistently fun and layered.

Story-wise, Veiled Edge tackles themes like AI, digital identity, and memory manipulation. There’s depth here, and it’s delivered through dialogue, exploration, and set-piece moments.

Few Questions with the OnwStudio inc. team!

Each chapter of Veiled Edge feels like it belongs to a different genre—was this a narrative decision or a way to explore varied gameplay styles?

Our goal was to deliver a variety of gameplay experiences within a single game. With the rising popularity of short-form content like YouTube Shorts and TikTok, we thought it would be interesting to reflect that kind of fast-paced, diverse fun in a game format.

Were there any specific inspirations (from games, films, or literature) that influenced the aesthetic and storytelling of the game?

We drew a lot of inspiration from cyberpunk titles like Edgerunners and Katana ZERO. In terms of gameplay, It Takes Two was a major influence, while the story was partly inspired by Inception.

How did the dynamic between Rapid and Lena come about? Was their complementary gameplay planned from the beginning or did it evolve during development?

Lena and Rapid were initially designed based on classic male/female character archetypes. Our goal was to give players the feeling that they were playing in completely different worlds depending on the character. (We still have a long way to go, but that’s the vision.)

What are your main priorities for the next phases of development? Will you focus on refining existing chapters or expanding the story with new content first?

For now, our main focus is completing the remaining, unreleased chapters. That said, we're also working little by little to improve the quality of presentation in the existing content. :)

Strengths

• Genre-blending gameplay that keeps every chapter fresh and surprising
• Beautiful pixel art full of personality and attention to detail
• Strong community interaction and active development
• A gripping mystery story that deepens with each new chapter

Areas for Improvement

• Early chapters still feel a bit clunky compared to Chapter 2
• No full localization yet—especially disappointing for non-English speakers
• Some levels feel too short; more content would be welcome

Why You Should Play Veiled Edge

Veiled Edge isn’t just a game—it’s a promise. A promise of what happens when passion meets persistence. If you’re a fan of indie games with heart, depth, and stunning retro visuals, this title deserves a place on your radar.

It’s a reminder that not all games need to be AAA to be ambitious, emotional, and exciting. Jump in now, follow its development, and you might just witness something special take shape.

And devs, if you're reading this: we’d love a co-op mode!  Imagine Rapid and Lena playable together in split-screen—chef’s kiss.

You can see Veiled Edge also in the video about the Top 4 Best Indie Games – March 2025

New Features, New Speed, New Quests!

Finally, a new post to show you the latest updates on indiexpo!

So many things to say — I’ll try to keep it short!

For the Gamers:

• The website is faster!
• New design for User Pages, with your ranking shown bigger in the top-right corner!
• New language added: Czech
• New events and quests every month to earn more Gems
• On the blog, you can find more posts about the latest games uploaded to the site

For the Developers:

• On the home page (if no followed games have been recently uploaded), you’ll now see your own games! It’s incredible how many developers are using it in so few time!
• If your game supports the leaderboard, you can now click on "Create a new Quest" to make a quest linked to it
• In the stats area on your game page, you can now see the global ranking of your game, along with the games ranked directly above and below it

Coming soon...

For the gamers:

• a new area to continue to play your favourite games

For the developers:

• a new way to upload the screenshots and select the cover of your game