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!

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

Psychoanalysis & Freud... Through a Game - Freud's Bones

"Freud's Bones" is a unique point-and-click adventure that places players in the role of Sigmund Freud's conscience. Developed by Axel Fox, the game combines psychoanalysis with gameplay, allowing players to explore both Freud's personal life and his complex clinical cases. The developer's mastery of the subject matter is evident in the game's quality and depth.

The game unfolds on two fronts: discovering Freud through the analysis of his study, filled with esoteric objects, photographs, and a vast library, and interacting with his patients, who present symptoms linked to traumas that need to be analyzed and diagnosed. For example, you'll need to help a woman who can no longer walk and a narcissistic megalomaniac with haphephobia. During psychoanalytic sessions, you must strategically ask questions to uncover crucial details, formulate accurate diagnoses, and prescribe treatments.

One of the most interesting and enjoyable aspects of "Freud's Bones" is its ability to immerse players in the intricacies of the human psyche. Despite the scientific rigor, which might be complex for those unfamiliar with psychoanalysis, the game includes a mini-encyclopedia that explains fundamental concepts like the Id, Ego, and Superego, making these topics accessible to all. This feature makes "Freud's Bones" not just a game but also an educational opportunity to learn a lot about Freud's life and psychoanalysis.

Sessions with patients require examining medical records, asking questions, and analyzing texts to find key elements for diagnoses and prescriptions. This part of the gameplay is well-integrated and intuitive, allowing players to feel like real psychoanalysts. Additionally, it is crucial to manage Freud's stress with cigars and cocaine, explore his dreams, and face events reflecting his life and the era he lived in.

Simultaneously, the game offers an in-depth analysis of Freud himself. You need to examine objects in his study, manage his stress, and decide how he should behave in various situations. This part is particularly evocative, offering strong imagery and direct references to the realities of his time and his experience as a Jew in a prejudiced, antisemitic world.

"Freud's Bones" is a profoundly immersive and visionary experience that requires players to think and act like the father of psychoanalysis. The game is a fascinating journey into Freud's mind and the principles of psychoanalysis, made accessible and engaging for a gaming audience.

IMSCARED: the must-play Horror Indie Games

IMSCARED is a horror indie game that has gained a devoted following due to its unique and innovative approach to the horror genre. Developed by MyMadnessWorks (alias Ivan Zanotti, an italiann solo dev) using Game Maker, this game puts the player in the protagonist role and immerses them in a surreal, first-person experience. It was played by the most famous streamers and youtubers like PewDiePie, Markiplier, penguinz0 and jacksepticeye.

As the player navigates through the nightmare world of IMSCARED, they must find keys, open doors, and search for the exit. However, the game is constantly trying to deceive the player, making it difficult to know what is real and what is just a trick. This use of deception adds an extra layer of terror to the game, as the player is never quite sure what to expect.

One of the standout features of IMSCARED is its heavy use of psychological horror. The game touches on themes of suicide and loneliness, and is not for the faint of heart. Player discretion is definitely advised, as the game can be quite disturbing at times. The game's use of sound and lighting also adds to the immersion, creating a truly terrifying experience.

In addition to its immersive gameplay and psychological horror, IMSCARED also stands out for its innovative use of procedurally generated content. Each time the player plays the game, the layout and elements of the nightmare world are different, meaning that no two playthroughs are the same. This adds an extra level of replayability to the game, as players can experience a new and unique nightmare each time they play.

Overall, IMSCARED is a must-play for fans of horror games. A masterpiece of the CreepyPasta games. Its innovative use of psychological horror, immersive gameplay, and procedurally generated content make it a standout in the indie game market. If you're looking for a truly terrifying and unique horror experience, IMSCARED is definitely the game for you.

Just be prepared for a nightmarish journey that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Unlock the secrets of Aurora's past in this epic sci-fi fantasy Point & Click Adventure

 If you're a fan of 2D, hand-drawn games, then Aurora The Lost Medallion is definitely worth checking out. The art style is absolutely stunning, with a wide variety of beautifully designed characters and environments. The game's use of color is particularly noteworthy, with vibrant, eye-catching hues that really bring the world of Trappist-1 to life.

The game's story is equally engaging, following Aurora, an alien girl who has spent her entire life in a technologically advanced cave on the frozen planet Eedor. Raised by artificially intelligent robots, Aurora and the other children in the cave have no knowledge of their origins, and are tasked with preparing for the "Pilgrimage," a seemingly impossible journey through the frozen wastes of Eedor.

As Aurora's wild, curious nature is challenged by the rigid society of the cave, she sets out on a quest to find her true identity and discover the answers she has been seeking. The plot is full of twists and turns, and the game does a great job of balancing comedy and drama to keep players engaged.

One of the standout features of Aurora The Lost Medallion is the classic point & click adventure gameplay. This type of gameplay encourages players to explore their surroundings, solve puzzles, and interact with characters to progress through the story. The game also includes more than 5000 lines of detailed backstory, providing a rich and immersive world for players to explore.

Overall, Aurora The Lost Medallion, developed by Noema Games using Unity3D, is a must-play for fans of the point & click adventure genre. The combination of beautiful hand-drawn art, fully voiced dialogue, and a compelling story make it a standout indie game that will keep you entertained for hours. Plus, with the game available in several languages, it's easy for players from different countries to enjoy the adventure.

Defend to Conquer: Dive into the Unique World of SeaRing and Save the Day!

SeaRing is an indiegame in pixelart, story-driven adventure that will take you on a journey through a world rich in lore, colorful characters, and comical storytelling. In this game, you play as the Sea Princess on a quest to retrieve her mother's lost crown, become queen, and solve the mysteries of a world ruled by fire.

What sets SeaRing apart from other adventure games is its unique gameplay mechanic. You don't have a traditional attack button, but instead, you use your Sea Ring to defend yourself from enemy attacks. This twist on traditional gameplay creates a fresh and exciting challenge, as you must use your strategic skills to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.

In addition to the gameplay, the characters and dialogue in SeaRing are a highlight of the game. With over 50 NPCs, each with their own unique dialogue, you'll find yourself immersed in the world and the story. Some characters are quirky and humorous, while others offer valuable tips and insights into the game's lore.

One particularly helpful feature is the Sea Princess's ability to call home. If you're feeling lost, stuck on a puzzle, or just need a break, you can press the 'C' button to call her dad and get some helpful advice.

The pixel art and soundtrack in SeaRing are also impressive. The game's pixel art creates a beautiful and immersive world, while the soundtrack sets the perfect tone for the game's atmosphere. With over 10 unique songs, the soundtrack will keep you engaged and entertained throughout your journey.

Overall, SeaRing is a fantastic adventure game that combines unique gameplay mechanics with engaging characters, dialogue, and art. If you're a fan of action-puzzle games, or just looking for a fun and immersive adventure, SeaRing is definitely worth playing. Plus, with language options in Italian, English, and Portuguese, it's accessible to a wide range of players.

Did you see the official game trailer?

An Unforgettable RPG Adventure Combining High Fantasy and Sci-Fi: Starcaller

As an exiled priestess with hidden powers, players must guide Avarran as she embarks on a journey to restore order to the planet Vaerok. This is Starcaller, an indiegame developed by Cosmic Wheels during the 2020 and still played by a lot of indiexpors! The game combines elements of high fantasy and sci-fi in a retro-style RPG adventure that is sure to appeal to fans of both genres.

One of the most notable aspects of Starcaller is its focus on exploration. Players will have the opportunity to discover a wide range of environments, each with its own unique challenges and secrets to uncover. From ancient ruins to futuristic cities, there is always something new and exciting to discover. The retro style of the game adds to the sense of adventure, and the hidden areas and puzzles scattered throughout the world provide plenty of challenges for players to overcome.

In addition to exploration, Starcaller also places a strong emphasis on dialogue and character building. As Avarran, players will be able to interact with a wide variety of characters and make choices that will shape their story.

The dialogue is well-written and the characters are interesting and well-developed, making it easy for players to become invested in their journey. The character building aspect of the game is particularly well done, with a variety of skills and abilities to unlock as players progress.

Overall, Starcaller is an exciting and immersive game that is sure to appeal to fans of RPG adventures. With its focus on exploration, dialogue, and character building, it offers a unique and engaging experience that is sure to keep players coming back for more.

Starcaller is still in early development, but it has already shown a lot of promise!

Experience terror like never before in Fleshforward - the ultimate survival horror game!

Fleshforward is a survival horror game, developed using Rpg Maker VX Ace, that takes players on a journey through a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. The game features a mix of action combat, stealth mechanics, and a glimpse of the main campaign from the first game in the series.

The developers at Linked Rooms Games have made several improvements and added new features to the game, including faster dialogue, improved zombie AI, new keys for controls, and improved menu functions. One of the standout features of Fleshforward is the immersive gameplay.

The game does a great job of building tension and creating a sense of fear and uncertainty as players navigate through the dangerous world. The action combat is intense, and the stealth system adds an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay.

The improved zombie AI is also a welcome change, as it makes the enemies more unpredictable and challenging to take down. In addition to the gameplay, the game also boasts improved graphics and sound effects. The new sound effects, such as those for when the player is hit by a zombie or when their stamina reaches zero, add to the overall atmosphere of the game. The improved User Interface for the menu and the added Guide for playing on Mac are also nice touches that make the game more accessible and user-friendly.

Overall, Fleshforward is a solid survival horror game that offers a thrilling and immersive experience for players. The improvements and new features added by Linked Rooms Games only add to the overall enjoyment of the game.

If you're a fan of old-school survival horror games, or just looking for a good scare, Fleshforward is definitely worth checking out.

Revisit the Spirit of 1980's Home Computer RPGs with Dungeons of Dreadrock!

One of the things that really impressed me about Dungeons of Dreadrock is the level of replayability it offers. With 100 levels to explore and a wide range of enemies and environments to encounter, there's plenty of content to keep you occupied for a long time. But beyond that, the game also offers a lot of optional content that you can choose to pursue or ignore as you see fit. Its author, Christoph Minnameier, made a great (and huge) work!

For example, you can spend time searching for hidden treasure or completing side quests for the various NPCs you meet throughout the game. These optional activities add an extra layer of depth to the game and give you more things to do beyond just progressing through the main story.

Another aspect of the game that I really appreciated was the way it handles death. In many games, dying means starting over from the beginning or from a recent save point. But in Dungeons of Dreadrock, death is treated more like a minor inconvenience. When you die, you respawn at the last checkpoint you reached, and you get to keep all of your progress and loot.

This means that you can take risks and experiment with different strategies without worrying too much about losing everything you've worked for. It's a much more forgiving system than what you typically see in games, and I found it really helped to keep the gameplay enjoyable and stress-free.

One final thing that I really enjoyed about Dungeons of Dreadrock was the sense of humor that runs throughout the game. The game takes itself seriously when it needs to, but it also has a lot of fun with itself and doesn't take itself too seriously. This is evident in everything from the silly names of some of the enemies (like the "Dread Beetles") to the humorous dialogue of the NPCs you meet. It's a nice touch that helps to keep the game light and enjoyable, even when you're stuck on a particularly tricky puzzle or fighting a tough boss.

The pixel art is amazing and each detail is perfect!

In conclusion, Dungeons of Dreadrock is a fantastic adventure game that combines challenging puzzles, engaging combat, and a sense of humor. It's a game that's easy to pick up and play, but it offers a lot of depth and replayability for players who want to delve deeper. If you're a fan of oldschool dungeon crawlers or just enjoy a good puzzle-based game, then you owe it to yourself to give Dungeons of Dreadrock a try playing the free version on indiexpo website! You can play it on your PC or also to download the Android version.

Numina: An Exciting RPG Game with a Unique 4th Wall Concept

Numina is an exciting and immersive RPG game that offers players a unique experience through its 4th wall concept. In this game, players have the opportunity to directly interact with the main character Shawn and influence his decisions through dialogue choices. These choices not only affect Shawn's relationships with other characters in the game, but also the overall course of the story, leading to one of four possible endings.

One of the standout features of Numina is its dynamic battle system, which incorporates elemental abilities and action inputs for timed attacks. Players can unlock powerful combo-attacks by building good relationships with party members and make use of enemy weaknesses through elemental abilities, adding an extra layer of strategy to combat. The battle system is both challenging and rewarding, requiring players to think critically and utilize their elemental abilities to emerge victorious.

In addition to the engaging combat system, Numina also boasts a character-driven story that follows Shawn as he navigates a complex conspiracy that threatens to shake the foundations of the world. Along the way, players will encounter challenging puzzles, explore a variety of towns and other exciting locations, and meet a cast of interesting characters.

The branching decisions system allows players to shape the relationships Shawn has with these characters, ultimately leading to one of four possible endings.

Overall, Numina is a well-crafted RPG game that offers a unique and engaging experience for players. Its blend of character development, challenging gameplay, and an immersive story make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

It is developed by Dustb0 and considered one of the best Rpg Maker games released during the 2022.

Already out on indiexpo with a free demo in english and german!

Experience the thrill of growing up and facing the future in Bigger Than Me!

Bigger Than Me is an adventure game that is sure to keep players on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The game follows the story of Max, a young man full of uncertainties who finds himself grappling with the challenges of adult life and a strange ability to transform into a giant whenever he hears the word 'FUTURE'.

The game is set in a vividly realized city, with a strong sense of place and a diverse cast of supporting characters. The story is well-written, with a mix of humor and more serious themes that keep players engaged throughout. The game's puzzles and minigames are challenging and enjoyable, encouraging players to think creatively and outside the box in order to progress.

One of the standout features of Bigger Than Me is its clever use of Max's giant form as a gameplay mechanic. Players will need to navigate through the city, solving puzzles and interacting with the environment in order to progress. This adds an extra layer of challenge to the game, and encourages players to think creatively and outside the box.

Overall, Bigger Than Me is a well-crafted and highly enjoyable adventure game that is sure to appeal to fans of the genre. Its mix of humor, challenging gameplay, and compelling story make it a must-play for anyone looking for something a little different. Whether you're a seasoned adventure game veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Bigger Than Me is an adventure game that is sure to provide hours of entertainment and enjoyment.

As said previously, in addition to the engaging gameplay, Bigger Than Me also tackles some deeper themes, such as growing up and facing the uncertainties of the future. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and complexity to the game.

Overall, Bigger Than Me is a fantastic point & click game that is sure to leave a lasting impression on players. Its unique premise, challenging gameplay, and compelling story make it a must-play for anyone looking for a fresh and enjoyable gaming experience.

Developed by Dead Pixel Games using Unity3D, playable in English and already translated also in Spanish!

Exploring the Intergalactic Community in Infinite Stars

Infinite Stars is a visual novel that offers players an exciting and thought-provoking science fiction experience set in a distant future where humanity has finally united and joined the larger intergalactic community. The game draws inspiration from classic stories like Dune, Star Trek, and The Expanse, and combines elements of adventure, politics, and intrigue to create a captivating narrative that will keep players engaged from start to finish.

In Infinite Stars, players take on the role of a member of the Terran Protectorate, a human organization tasked with representing humanity's interests within the United Interstellar Concordat. The game begins with the arrival of the Cephilusk convoys, who have come to construct the Sol Gate, a massive intergalactic portal that will allow humanity to join the UIC.

However, the discovery of the Cephilusk and the construction of the Sol Gate sparks a brief and bloody war between humanity and the Cephilusk, with the Terran Protectorate resorting to guerilla warfare in order to sabotage construction attempts and raid supply convoys.

Eventually, a peace is brokered and official channels of communication are opened, allowing humanity to learn more about the Cephilusk and the other species that make up the UIC. The game follows the efforts of the Terran Protectorate to petition for membership in the UIC, and the challenges they face as they work to convince other species to accept them as equal members of the intergalactic community.

One of the standout features of Infinite Stars is its rich and immersive world-building. The game does an excellent job of introducing players to the various species that make up the UIC, and the complex political landscape that governs their interactions. The plot is well-paced and full of twists and turns, and the characters are well-written and engaging, each with their own motivations and goals.

The visual presentation of the game is top-notch, with beautiful hand-drawn artwork and a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate through the various branching storylines.

The music and sound effects also add to the overall atmosphere of the visual novel, enhancing the sense of immersion and making the player feel like they are truly part of this futuristic world.

It is developed by a small team using Renpy, a free and open-source visual novel engine for creating interactive fiction games with a simple and intuitive interface for creating visual novels, used by amateur and professional game developers alike and has a large and active community of users.

This visual novel has now over 1000 players and it is playable online! No downloads!

Overall, Infinite Stars is a must-play for fans of science fiction and visual novels. Its engaging plot, rich world-building, and excellent presentation make it an enjoyable and memorable experience that will leave players wanting more. Whether you're a seasoned visual novel player or a newcomer to the genre, Infinite Stars is an experience that you won't want to miss.

Fech The Ferret: A High-Speed Platformer

 As a fan of platformers, I was excited to try Fech The Ferret and it definitely did not disappoint. The fast-paced gameplay and electronic music soundtrack really set it apart from other games in the genre, and I found myself thoroughly engrossed in the experience. Developed using Unity3D by the small team Aucritas!

One of the things I really enjoyed about Fech The Ferret was the parkour elements, which allowed me to explore the different interconnected zones in the game and discover new high-skill routes to try. The level design was top-notch, with each zone feeling unique and offering a variety of challenges for the player. The rhythm-based cave levels were a particularly nice touch, adding an extra layer of challenge to the game and keeping things interesting.

The main character, Fech (a pink ferret), was a charming and likable protagonist, and I enjoyed following his adventure as he woke up in a strange forest and set out to discover more about the region of Marmocle.

The story, while relatively simple, was engaging and added a nice layer of depth to the gameplay. It is impossible don't think about Sonic (by SEGA) playing this game! If you are a fan of the Sonic's Saga, probably you have to play it! It is already translated in English, Italian, Spanish, French and German. With a free demo on indiexpo to play on your PC. It was also included in the best indie games released during December 2020!

Overall, Fech The Ferret is a fun and engaging indie game that is sure to appeal to fans of platformers and electronic music. Its unique blend of fast-paced gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtrack make it a standout title in the genre.

I would highly recommend giving it a try if you're a fan of the genre or just looking for a fun and enjoyable gaming experience.

Become the Monkey King in The Crown of Wu

The Crown of Wu is a captivating adventure-action game that takes players on a journey through a fantastical world inspired by the traditional Chinese tale Journey to the West. In this game, players take on the role of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, as they fight against enemies and overcome obstacles in order to retrieve the stolen Crown of Wu.

What is Journey to the West...?

Journey to the West is a Chinese novel that follows the adventures of a monk named Xuanzang as he travels to India to bring back Buddhist scriptures. He is accompanied by three supernatural beings: Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and Sha Wujing. Along the way, they face many challenges and obstacles, including fighting demons and monsters, and dealing with greed and temptation. The novel is known for its humorous characters and depiction of Buddhist practice.

But back to this indie game! It was developed by Red Mountain and already published on PlayStation 4 &5! This project has been launched by only students and former students of Trazos participate, directed by our trainer: José Carlos Montero. Students and ex-students of Trazos belonging to different areas of the School participate in this project, such as Video Games or Digital Illustration, in such a way that collaborators have the opportunity to work as a team within a professional environment , approaching the work model that they will find once they enter the industry.

The game's combat system is easy to use and grants players incremental powers as they progress through the levels, making it accessible for players of all skill levels. Players can harness the powers of air, fire, earth, and lightning to defeat enemies and navigate through the dangerous world.

The combat system is fresh and intuitive, and the various powers allow for a range of strategic options in battle.

In addition to combat, The Crown of Wu also features platforming elements that require players to jump, run, and parkour their way through the game's levels. The puzzles and challenges become increasingly complex as players advance through the game, making for an engaging and satisfying gameplay experience.

Developed using Unreal Engine.

The world of The Crown of Wu is a blend of old and new, drawing inspiration from Chinese mythology while telling a new story of Sun's journey from anti-hero to hero. The game's antagonist, Zhu, is waiting to fight and kill you, adding a sense of urgency to the plot.

One ​​day Sun woke up and with great pain he was able to see how chaos and devastation reigned unopposed around him. His crown was gone. From his old prison he watched as everything collapsed around him, it was time to reclaim his crown and restore order. 

The game's levels are varied and beautiful, with a range of environments and locations to explore.

Overall, The Crown of Wu is a thrilling and immersive adventure-action game that combines fast-paced combat with challenging puzzles and platforming elements. Its unique setting and plot make it a stand-out title in the genre, and its easy-to-use combat system and incremental powers make it accessible for players of all skill levels. If you're a fan of adventure-action games, or just love exploring new worlds inspired by mythology, thenThe Crown of Wu is definitely worth checking out!

You can already play the free version on indiexpo website uploaded by the team of Red Mountain!

Skydancer: The Epic RPG for Futuristic Samurai and Lethal Martial Arts!

Skydancer is an RPG indie game, developed by Uran & Polakko,  that stands out from the usual stereotypes of the classic JRPG genre. Set in a dystopian future in post-atomic Japan, the game follows the story of Tatsuke Sanji, a futuristic samurai equipped with a lightsaber and a mecha arm, and Shin Tanaka, a master of a deadly martial art known as "Denryoku jutsu". Together, they must save the world from a cyber-apocalypse and restore order to the chaotic island of Neo Tokyo.

One of the most notable features of Skydancer is its innovative use of the directional keys in combat. Players can use these keys to create more powerful combos and deal more damage to enemies in a single turn. This adds an element of strategy to battles and allows for more dynamic and engaging gameplay.

Skydancer also boasts a "chessboard like" level up system, similar to the one seen in Final Fantasy X, which allows players to customize their characters and progress through the game at their own pace. The game also includes a fully custom menu and a tutorial that explains the various gameplay mechanics in detail, such as the protoshell system and the fatality system.

In terms of language options, Skydancer is available in Italian and English, making it accessible to a wider audience. It was developed using RPG Maker 2003, and the developer's attention to detail is evident in the well-crafted world and characters.

Overall, Skydancer is a unique and engaging RPG that offers a fresh take on the genre. Its futuristic setting and focus on martial arts combat make it a must-play for fans of dystopian futures and fist-fighting action.

Steel Zeroes & Shopbot Sisters. The creations of Pedrovin (Kieran Harris)

Steel Zeroes is a delightful RPG that tells the story of two robots, Luke and Eva, as they embark on a journey to save the Earth from an otherworldly threat.

The game is filled with charming and colorful characters, and the plot is engaging and well-written. One of the things that sets Steel Zeroes apart from other indie games is its cute and colorful art style.The characters are designed with a lot of personality, and the world they inhabit is full of vibrant colors and interesting locations. The music is also well-done, with catchy and upbeat tracks that help to add to the game's overall charm. 

 The gameplay in Steel Zeroes is smooth and enjoyable, with a variety of different enemies and challenges to face as you progress through the game. The game also features a robust character customization system, allowing you to tailor your team to your playstyle.

Overall, Steel Zeroes is a charming and enjoyable RPG that is well worth checking out for fans of the genre. Whether you're a seasoned RPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre, there's something here for everyone to enjoy.

This first project, developed by Pedrovin (Kieran Harris) using RPG Maker, is followed by another game: Shopbot Sisters.

Shopbot Sisters has a similar style and it is placed in the world of Nerale, where Souldroids, sentient robots, thrive alongside humanity. In this vibrant world, meet Ail and Ali, two Souldroid sisters and the mascots of the popular Shopbot Supermarket Services franchise.

As the oldest sister, Ali has always taken on a more rough-and-tumble approach to life. But when her younger sibling, Ail, gets fed up with her bossy behavior, she decides to take matters into her own hands. And what better way to get back at her sister than by turning the store's warehouse into a series of challenging puzzles?

Players of Shopbot Sisters will guide Ail through the warehouse gauntlet, using their problem-solving skills to overcome obstacles and outsmart Ali at every turn. With vibrant, hand-drawn graphics and a quirky sense of humor, this indie game is sure to delight players of all ages.

But the fun doesn't stop there – as players progress through the game, they'll uncover hidden secrets and unlock new abilities for Ail to use in her quest to best her sister. With multiple levels to explore and a variety of challenges to conquer, Shopbot Sisters is a game that keeps on giving.

So why wait? Join Ail on her adventure through the Shopbot warehouse and see if you have what it takes to come out on top. Shopbot Sisters – a game that's sure to bring a smile to your face and a challenge to your mind.

From Dev to Dev. It is time of roguelike indie games in pixelart!

Recently we talked about Witchcrafter: Empire Legends, a dark fantasy, story focused, pixel art platformer metroidvania with elemental magic, that is reaching a lot of new players every day!

A little gem made using Defold, a new engine game! Now this indie game, playable also online, has over 35,000 players! But there a re a lot of metroidvania games every day... and Paweł Jarosz, the solo dev behind Witchcrafter, shared his feedback about a new game in pixelart recently uploaded on indiexpo and added also in the Top 2 Indie Games of August 2021 video! From Dev to Dev is back!

---

Hi!
Let me talk about Light Keeper by Hugo Laion, a game I spotted on indiexpo and it got me very interested and I would love to share a word or two to the dev from the dev :)

Light Keeper is a pixelart roguelike platformer with a background story about a city plagued by creatures crawling from underground which was ages ago protected by magical light that supposed to be eternal. Unfortunately it was not.

As a queen of this city you must stop them and light up those torches. This is a nice excuse for making such type of game.

After introducing the setting let me first focus on mechanics and gameplay at first and then we will go to a technical breakdown with a lot of advices not only for Hugo, but for all indiedevs!

Light Keeper is a platformer with non-intuitive, but smooth controls. The character is moving really nice, has a noticable inertion - nice acceleration and decceleration.

However, as a gamer I am used to jump with Space bar, but here Space is for dashing. You jump with W key, which is very hard for me to use in the heat of a battle.

Some controls customisation would be very nice to have (but I know how hard it is to implement!).

The character has useful platforming abilities like sliding and jumping on walls, edge grabbing etc. This is so nice to have in a modern platformer and it makes the game less stiff comparing to classic ones. I like it!

The creatures are starting to crawl from the darkness and you begin to feel the pressure. It is really hard to survive here! Random spawning of enemies is not yet balanced well.

It happened to me to meet a boss I couldn't even scratch, while he got me smashed in a turmoil of (almost unpredictable when first met) missiles trajectories.

The current, random structure of encounters made it impossible to introduce mechanics and learn useful tactics and behaviors on weaker enemies, before encoutnering a challenging boss.

You are generally put in the middle of a boiling battlefield and after just a few moments of peace, you need to fight for your life. Tension is very high here - this is considered as an advantage for some players!

When it comes to audiovisuals the first thing that attracts my attention are assets used in the game. As a dev, I am very familiar with the market and I understand that being a solodev, as Hugo is, means you would like to utilise what is available.

I do the same myself. However, this means you could see a bunch of different art styles mashed up in the game which may distract you from the mechanics.

This is also very hard to present the game to others as it lacks its unique style at first glance. I know that struggle!

The key for this to be thoughtful is to add your own spice to the game so it is unique. Hugo manages to do it pretty well.

Light Keeper is made in Construct 2 and introduces a nice lighting shader. The structure of the game is clear for me, there is also a compass in game that shows you where the closest torch is.

The GUI is pretty scalled-up in this game, covering a lot of the screen - it is also demands some time to get used to it. In general this is a solid platformer and a good roguelike with high tension.

The game is available in English or Brazilian Portuguese.

If you like such genre it could be an interesting title for you to check out!

Good luck, Hugo, with the further development! You have make a huge milestone in your career - completing a game, releasing it and gathering a feedback is undescribed precious for game devs!

- Paweł