Best Indie Games for PS5, Xbox, and PC in 2025: Must-Play Hits & Upcoming Gems

The gaming world is buzzing with excitement for 2025, and indie games are stealing the spotlight. So far this year, many good games have been launched which have kept fans and gamers interested and in the coming 2025 more good games will be released. The indie game scene is booming in 2025, bringing fresh creativity to PS5, Xbox, and PC.

The games have consistently pushed creative boundaries, giving us unique stories, gorgeous art styles, and innovative gameplay that larger studios sometimes overlook. In 2025, indie developers are making an enormous splash, with dozens of high-quality titles competing for your playtime across all gaming platforms.

Unlike AAA titles with massive budgets, indie games are often made by small studios or even solo developers, offering unique experiences that push boundaries. In 2025, indie games are expected to shine brighter than ever, thanks to accessible tools like Unity and Unreal Engine, which let creators bring their visions to life. From cozy simulators to intense roguelikes, these games are perfect for gamers looking for something new on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

This list covers announced indie games set to release in 2025, games with release windows beyond 2025, and standout titles already available.

Get ready to discover your next favorite game!

Top Indie Games to Play & Watch in 2025 on PS5, Xbox & PC

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Developer: Sandfall Interactive
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
Release Date: April 24, 2025
Genre: Turn-Based RPG, Action RPG

When I first dove into the world of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, I was struck by its haunting yet beautiful vibe, like stepping into a dark fairy tale. You lead a group of young heroes from Lumière, a city cursed by the Paintress, who paints a number each year that dooms everyone of that age to vanish. The mix of strategic turn-based combat with real-time dodges and parries feels fresh, and the Belle Époque-inspired world is so vivid, it’s like wandering through a painting that’s both dreamy and eerie.

What Makes It Great!

Innovative combat fusion
Emotional narrative twist
Stunning audio‑visual style
Star-Studded Cast: Charlie Cox and Andy Serkis

Community Buzz (From Players)

Many players on Reddit shared excitement after just a few hours:
- Combat is fantastic, exploration is a pain… they mention a lack of a map six times”
Others were praising its “spiritual successor” vibes to Lost Odyssey and classic JRPGs.

Blue Prince

Developer: Dogubomb
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Genre: Puzzle Adventure, Strategy, Roguelike

I felt instantly hooked the moment I stepped into Mt. Holly’s shifting corridors. As Simon P. Jones, every day felt like a fresh puzzle to unravel—choose rooms, gather tools, and edge closer to the elusive Room 46 before dawn resets everything. I loved how the house felt alive and unpredictable, and how each playthrough taught me something new. Solving lore‑hints or stumbling into secrets gave that genuine thrill of exploration and mystery.

What Makes It Great!

Creative Puzzles
Stunning Atmosphere
Deep narrative mystery
Ever‑changing floorplan & room‑drafting

Community Buzz (From Players)

On Reddit, players compare Blue Prince to The Room series and Chants of Sennaar for its clever puzzle design and mystery driven exploration:
- “Dungeon of the Endless … resource conservation … same way you need to save up Gems, Keys, and Steps … feeling of just one more room”
The demo experience impressed many with its four‑day structure, encouraging note‑taking and methodical planning for future runs:
- “Exploring and experimenting … unlocking lore … constant feeling of mystery, discovery, and adventure!”

Despelote

Developer: Julián Cordero, Sebastián Valbuena
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: May 1, 2025
Genre: Narrative Adventure, Slice-of-Life, Sports

Playing Despelote felt like stepping into a child’s memory—real and nostalgic. As young Julián, you’re drawn to the soccer ball at every turn, balancing chores, school, and the excitement of Ecuador’s first World Cup qualification. The streets, conversations, and ambient sounds of Quito come alive around you, and with each kick of the ball you sense deeper layers of community and memory. It’s only a couple hours long, but that personal feeling lingers.

What Makes It Great!

Emotional Storytelling
Cinematic Moments
Unique visual‑audio design
Critical recognition

Community Buzz (From Players)

Players on Steam have expressed how Despelote feels like reliving childhood. They love the warm tone, ambient storytelling, and authentic Ecuadorian setting.
While some players on Reddit and Steam praise its atmosphere, others mention the gameplay is too minimal or slow-paced for their taste.

Outer Wilds

Developer: Mobius Digital
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: May 30, 2019 (Echoes of the Eye DLC: September 28, 2021)
Genre: Open-World Exploration, Puzzle Adventure, Sci-Fi Mystery

I remember launching into Outer Wilds with zero expectations—and within minutes, I was lost in its quiet beauty and strange physics. Drifting between planets, I once crashed into a black hole by accident… and it changed how I looked at the whole game. There’s no map telling you where to go, just your own curiosity—and that’s what made it unforgettable for me. Every loop made me feel smarter, more connected to this weird little solar system, and oddly emotional by the end.

What Makes It Great!

Mind-Blowing Exploration
Haunting Soundtrack
Emotional Depth
Genuine Sense of Discovery

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – Players say it gave them “goosebumps” and “a sense of wonder they haven’t felt since childhood.” Many mention finishing the game and just sitting there, stunned.
Reddit – The community praises how it respects your intelligence—no hand-holding, just pure exploration and “aha!” moments.

Inscryption

Developer: Daniel Mullins Games
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: October 19, 2021
Genre: Roguelike Deck-Builder, Psychological Horror, Puzzle Adventure

Inscryption hooked me the moment I sat down at its creepy cabin table, facing a shadowy figure who felt like he could see right through me. You’re trapped in a mysterious card game, battling with a deck of woodland creatures that demand sacrifices to play. The mix of strategic card battles, eerie escape-room puzzles, and a story that twists into unsettling territory kept me glued to the screen, both thrilled and unnerved. It’s like playing a haunted board game that knows more about you than you’d like.

What Makes It Great!

Chilling Atmosphere
Clever Card Mechanics
Layered story and ARG mystique
Genre‑blending innovation

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – The reviews are “Overwhelmingly Positive” (96%+) with over 130,000 user responses—they call Inscryption a masterpiece that’s addictive, unsettling, and emotionally powerful.
Reddit – Fans openly gush over its emotional weight and shocking reveals.
“I love Inscryption so much it hurts. It’s perfect… I feel like crying.”
“Holy shit, this is one of the best games I’ve ever played.”

Tunic

Developer: Andrew Shouldice (published by Finji)
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: March 16, 2022
Genre: Action-Adventure, Puzzle, Isometric RPG

When I first booted up Tunic, I thought it was going to be just a cute Zelda-style fox game. But within an hour, I was scribbling notes, taking screenshots of strange language symbols, and trying to piece together secrets like I was in a mysterious ancient puzzle box. The charm of the little fox combined with a world full of cryptic wonder and genuine challenges made it one of those games I kept thinking about even when I wasn’t playing.

What Makes It Great!

Deep and Unexpected Lore
Charming Art Style
Brain-Teasing Puzzles
Unique Storytelling

Community Buzz (From Players)

Reddit (r/truegaming) – Players praised how Tunic makes you feel smart without hand-holding, especially when you finally “get” a symbol or secret. One user said it “reawakened the magic games had when you were a kid.”
Steam – Many comments highlighted the game’s beauty and challenge. Some compared it to Dark Souls but cuter, appreciating the difficulty hidden behind its charming appearance.

Balatro

Developer: LocalThunk (published by Playstack)
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: February 20, 2024 (mobile version: September 26, 2024)
Genre: Roguelike Deck-Builder, Strategy, Card Game

I didn’t expect to sink hours into a game about poker—but Balatro absolutely hooked me. The first time I stacked a perfect combo and watched my score explode into the millions, it felt euphoric. It’s got that “just one more run” pull, with wild synergies, jokers that break the game in the best ways, and rules that flip the idea of poker upside down. It’s not just cards—it’s chaos, strategy, and obsession rolled into one neon-lit fever dream.

What Makes It Great!

Addictive Gameplay
Gorgeous Pixel Art
Strategic Depth
Endless Replayability

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – Players call it “card gaming perfection” and “the Tetris of deckbuilders.” Many mention playing it obsessively for hundreds of hours without burnout.
Reddit (r/roguelites) – Fans love the surprising depth hidden behind its quirky appearance. One post said: “Balatro is crack for card game lovers—pure dopamine.”

Dredge

Developer: Black Salt Games
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: March 30, 2023 (mobile version: February 27, 2025)
Genre: Fishing Adventure, Psychological Horror, Lovecraftian RPG

Dredge pulled me in with its eerie charm the moment I set sail in the foggy waters of The Marrows. You’re a fisherman steering a small boat, catching strange fish and dredging up relics in a haunting archipelago. By day, it’s a cozy fishing sim, but at night, the fog rolls in, and creepy creatures and hallucinations make every trip tense. It’s like a peaceful fishing trip that slowly turns into a Lovecraftian nightmare, and I couldn’t stop sailing to uncover its dark secrets.

What Makes It Great!

Chilling Atmosphere
Unique Fishing Mechanics
Satisfying Progression
Unique Horror Elements

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – Many players call it a “surprisingly chilling gem” and praise how it mixes fishing with cosmic horror in a way that’s “weirdly relaxing and unsettling at the same time.”
Reddit (r/indiegames) – Users frequently mention how it “sinks its hooks into you,” applauding its originality and the creeping sense of dread that builds the deeper you go.

Stardew Valley

Developer: ConcernedApe (Eric Barone)
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: February 26, 2016 (latest updates in 2024)
Genre: Farming Simulator, Life Sim, RPG

I still remember my first rainy day in Stardew Valley—just me, a cup of in-game coffee, and the sound of raindrops on the roof as I organized crops and read villagers’ letters. What starts as a simple farming game slowly unfolds into a cozy, emotionally rich experience. Whether it’s making friends, exploring mines, or chasing rare fish, the world pulls you in with its warmth and quiet depth. It’s not just a game—it’s a peaceful escape.

What Makes It Great!

Relaxing Gameplay
Rich World
Massive Content & Mod Support
Endless Choices

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – Players consistently call it their “comfort game” and praise the sheer amount of content packed into one indie title. Many say they’ve spent 100+ hours without ever getting bored.
Reddit (r/StardewValley) – Fans often share heartfelt stories about bonding with characters, decorating their farm layouts, or even playing the game to manage stress or anxiety. The vibe is overwhelmingly positive and full of love for the game and its creator.

Dead Cells

Developer: Motion Twin
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: August 7, 2018 (latest updates in 2024)
Genre: Roguelike, Metroidvania, Action Platformer

Dead Cells grabbed me from the first swing of its pixelated sword, throwing me into a wild, ever-changing adventure that’s equal parts tough and thrilling. You’re a reanimated corpse exploring a sprawling, cursed island, slashing through monsters with fluid combat and unlocking new paths with each death. The fast-paced battles and randomized levels make every run feel fresh, and I found myself cheering every time I dodged a trap or landed a perfect combo. It’s a game that keeps you coming back, eager to conquer its challenges.

What Makes It Great!

Dynamic World
Gorgeous Pixel Art
Stunning Visuals & Music
Incredible Combat Fluidity

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – Users praise the “perfect combat feel” and how each run remains fresh even after dozens of hours. It’s often called the “gold standard” for roguelikes.
YouTube/Reddit – Fans regularly share challenge runs, speedruns, and praise for post-launch DLCs like Return to Castlevania. The game has built a loyal, skill-hungry community.

Hades

Developer: Supergiant Games
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: September 17, 2020
Genre: Roguelike, Action RPG, Hack-and-Slash

The first time I dashed through Tartarus as Zagreus, I wasn’t expecting to care so deeply about escaping hell—or bonding with the gods while doing it. Every run felt like a wild conversation blended with stylish combat. The more I died, the more the story pulled me in. I remember pausing mid-run just to talk to Nyx or unlock one more bit of Zagreus and Hades’ complex relationship. It’s rare when gameplay and narrative click this well.

What Makes It Great!

Engaging Story
Stunning Art and Music
Narrative That Grows With You
Art, Voice Acting, and Music Are Top-Tier

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – Players love how Hades redefines the roguelike genre—praising its satisfying gameplay loop and surprisingly emotional story. “Every death is progress,” says one top review.
Reddit – Constant appreciation posts about favorite builds, deep lore discussions, and fan art. The community thrives on theorycrafting and storytelling.

Schedule I

Developer: Solo Developer (Anonymous)
Platforms: PC
Release Date: July 26, 2024
Genre: Simulation, Strategy, Management

When I first fired up Schedule I, I was hooked by its quirky take on running an underground operation, blending humor with a surprising amount of strategy. You play as a budding entrepreneur managing a grow-op in a retro-styled world, juggling planting, harvesting, and selling while dodging nosy cops. The pixel-art vibe and chill soundtrack made every decision feel like a laid-back hustle, but the stakes kept me on edge, planning my next move like a mastermind. It’s a wild, unique sim that’s as fun as it is cheeky.

What Makes It Great!

Strategic Depth
Retro Charm
Addictive Business Layer
Solo Developer, Big Results

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – Players call it “weirdly satisfying and strategic chaos” and praise its solid 98% positive rating. Many mention how the gameplay loop is surprisingly deep and surprisingly fun.

Reddit (r/IndieDev & r/indiegames) – Users express admiration for the solo dev’s achievement.
- “This game is so much fun and hilarious… even the demo felt packed with content unlike any game nowadays.”

Hollow Knight

Developer: Team Cherry
Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: February 24, 2017
Genre: Metroidvania, Action-Adventure, Souls-like

The first time I dropped into Hallownest, it felt like stepping into a forgotten dream. I wasn’t told where to go, yet I couldn’t stop exploring—each path branching like veins in a massive, sleeping creature. There was beauty in how the silence told stories, and every new area brought a mix of wonder and quiet dread. I still remember pausing just to listen to the echoing wind in the City of Tears.

What Makes It Great!

Gorgeous Art Style
Tight Gameplay
Deep Exploration
Atmosphere That Pulls You In

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – Players often say Hollow Knight is a “masterpiece of indie design,” praising its incredible value and rewarding challenge. Many mention the emotional connection they felt with the world, even without much dialogue.

Reddit (r/HollowKnight) – Fans share their favorite boss fights, hidden discoveries, and theories about the lore. The community is known for being warm and helpful, especially to newcomers getting lost or stuck.

Cuphead

Developer: Studio MDHR
Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: September 29, 2017
Genre: Run-and-Gun, Platformer, Bullet Hell

(Credit: IGN)

Cuphead didn’t just test my reflexes—it tested my patience, in the best way. The moment I stepped into that 1930s cartoon world, it felt like I was playing inside a vintage animation reel. I still remember grinning at the whimsical music… right before being crushed by a flower boss for the tenth time. But every retry felt worth it, not because I had to win, but because I wanted to master it.

What Makes It Great!

Boss Fights That Demand Skill
Co-op Fun & Frustration
Stunning Art Style
Brutal but Fair Combat

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – Many call it “beautiful but brutal.” Players often share how they were humbled by the difficulty yet couldn’t stop playing. It’s a love-hate relationship in the best way.

Reddit (r/Cuphead) – The community thrives on challenge runs, boss speedkills, and fan art. It’s full of appreciation for the art style and mutual respect for those who beat King Dice and The Devil.

Vampire Survivors

Developer: Poncle
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: October 20, 2022 (Early Access began December 17, 2021)
Genre: Roguelike, Bullet Hell, Action RPG

Vampire Survivors grabbed me the moment I started mowing down hordes of monsters with a whip-wielding vampire hunter, and I couldn’t stop playing. You’re a lone survivor in a cursed world, fending off endless waves of creepy creatures while collecting upgrades to unleash chaotic attacks. The simple yet addictive gameplay had me lost in a frenzy of glowing weapons and exploding enemies, feeling like a one-person army. It’s the kind of game that makes you say “one more run” until hours have slipped by.

What Makes It Great!

Addictive Gameplay Loop
Massive Horde Destruction
Wild Weapon Combos
Retro Pixel Art

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – Players praise how “unexpectedly deep” the game is. One popular review reads, “I paid $5 and got 100 hours of fun. This game robbed me in reverse.”

Reddit (r/VampireSurvivors) – The sub is packed with memes, build guides, and lore breakdowns. Many players proudly share crazy runs with 10-minute reaper kills and screen-melting setups.

Rime

Developer: Tequila Works
Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: May 26, 2017 (Nintendo Switch: November 14, 2017)
Genre: Puzzle Adventure, Exploration, Narrative

Rime swept me away the moment I woke up as a young boy on a sun-drenched island, with a curious fox darting ahead to guide me. You explore a mysterious, Mediterranean-inspired world, solving environmental puzzles and chasing glimpses of a figure in a red cape. The lack of words makes the story feel deeply personal, told through stunning visuals and a haunting soundtrack that tugs at your heart. It’s a quiet, emotional journey that feels like wandering through a dream you don’t want to end.

What Makes It Great!

Emotional Storytelling
Creative Puzzles
Gorgeous Soundtrack
Atmospheric World Design

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – Many players call it “a hidden gem” and compare its emotional impact to Journey or ICO. “I didn’t expect to cry at the end of a puzzle game,” says one top-rated review.

Reddit (r/PS4 / r/patientgamers) – Discussions often focus on the ending and its layered symbolism. Fans frequently recommend it to anyone looking for a short but emotionally rich experience.

Disco Elysium

Developer: ZA/UM
Platforms: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, macOS
Release Date: October 15, 2019 (The Final Cut: March 30, 2021)
Genre: Narrative RPG, Open-World, Detective Adventure

I didn’t play Disco Elysium—I lived it. From the moment I woke up as a broken, hungover detective in a crumbling seaside hotel, I was no longer myself. I was that man with no name, no memory, no morals… and yet, I felt entirely responsible for every word that left his mouth. Talking to my necktie? Arguing with my own thoughts? It felt absurd at first—but slowly, I realized it was all a mirror. I wasn’t just solving a murder—I was dissecting a man’s soul. Every choice felt weighty, like I was chiseling identity out of chaos. I’ve never felt so seen and shaken by dialogue in a game.

What Makes It Great!

Deep Role-Playing
Rich World-Building
Rich, Bleakly Beautiful World
Incredible Writing

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – “It ruined other RPGs for me—in a good way.” Another common praise: “I didn’t know I wanted a game to psychoanalyze me.” Fans love how political ideologies are portrayed with brutal honesty and dark humor.

Reddit (r/truegaming / r/DiscoElysium) – Posts often quote in-game lines like scripture. Players discuss emotional moments like the Pale, the Smoker on the Balcony, or the lorry drivers’ banter. It’s treated more like literature than just a game.

Valheim

Developer: Iron Gate Studio
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
Release Date: February 2, 2021 (Early Access)
Genre: Survival, Open-World, Action-Adventure

(Credit: IGN)

Valheim caught me off guard. I went in expecting a typical survival grind—cut trees, build base, maybe slay a few trolls. But this? This felt like Norse mythology written in voxel fire and wind. My first stormy boat ride through the ocean, my first fight with Eikthyr, the quiet beauty of misty meadows at dawn—Valheim had a soul. Playing co-op with friends made it even more magical. We weren’t just surviving; we were honoring Odin with every crafted shield and mead hall. It’s not just about building—it’s about belonging to a world that quietly humbles you.

What Makes It Great!

Epic Exploration
Co-op Glory
Atmospheric Immersion
Immersive Viking Survival

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – “Built a longhouse. Lost it to trolls. Rebuilt it stronger. 10/10.” Many reviews praise the blend of chill exploration and epic moments. It’s common to see “Most peaceful AND most intense game I’ve played.”

Reddit (r/valheim) – The community loves sharing screenshots of Viking towns, sailing misadventures, and architectural wonders. Memes about players dying to falling trees or greydwarves while their friends build IKEA-tier longhouses are everywhere.

Into the Breach

Developer: Subset Games
Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PS4
Release Date: February 27, 2018
Genre: Turn-Based Strategy, Roguelike, Tactical

Into the Breach had me hooked the moment I sent my mechs into battle, feeling like a chess master in a sci-fi showdown. You command a squad of time-traveling pilots in giant mechs, fighting insect-like Vek to save humanity’s future on a tiny 8×8 grid. Every move feels like a puzzle, with each turn offering tough choices to protect cities or sacrifice units for the greater good. It’s a compact, brainy strategy game that’s as intense as it is satisfying, making me cheer with every clever play.

What Makes It Great!

Tight Strategy
Gorgeous Pixel Art
Clever Time-Travel Twist
Brilliant Tactical Combat

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – “Feels like XCOM had a baby with chess and FTL.” Players constantly mention how Into the Breach turns minimalism into genius, and how one wrong move can cost an entire timeline.

Reddit (r/IntoTheBreach) – The subreddit is filled with turn breakdowns, damage predictions, and “I can’t believe I pulled this off” gifs. Netflix mobile users now joining the fray say, “This is the smartest game on my phone.”

Post Trauma

Developer: Red Soul Games
Platforms: PC (via Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Release Date: April 22, 2025
Genre: Survival Horror, Puzzle Horror

Playing Post Trauma felt like stepping into a fever dream I couldn’t shake off. As Roman, a train conductor lost in a warped, otherworldly maze, I was gripped by the eerie stillness of each corridor, where every shadow seemed to whisper danger. The fixed camera angles made my heart race as I crept forward, half-expecting something to lunge at me. Piecing together the cryptic puzzles while unraveling Roman’s story gave me that perfect mix of dread and curiosity that kept me up way past midnight.

What Makes It Great!

Immersive Horror Vibe
Brain-Teasing Puzzles
Nostalgic Yet Fresh
Puzzle-Driven Tension

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam – Reviews hover around “Mostly Positive.” Players appreciate the atmospheric horror and puzzle focus, noting occasional performance issues but praising the visual design and retro vibe.
Reddit (r/GameGeeks) – Fans draw parallels with Resident Evil and The Evil Within, growing eager after trailer reveals. One user summed it up: a genre homage that’s both nostalgic and haunting.

Sea of Stars: Throes of the Watchmaker (DLC)

Developer: Sabotage Studio
Platforms: PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One
Release Date: May 20, 2025 (free DLC)
Genre: JRPG / Adventure / Turn-Based RPG expansion

The base game already felt like a love letter to classic RPGs, and this DLC seems ready to expand that universe with even more mystery and cosmic intrigue. From the trailer, the tone is darker, more time-bending, and full of tension. If the main game was about light and destiny, this DLC feels like it’s about choices and consequences—and I’m all in.

What Makes It Great!

New Roles & Characters
Three-Player Co-op Mechanic
Stunning Pixel Art
Rich Storytelling

Community Buzz (From Players)

Fans are thrilled Sabotage Studio is delivering a proper expansion instead of a mini update. Reddit threads praise how the trailer felt “like Chrono Trigger meets Majora’s Mask.” 22.

Tales of the Shire

Developer: Wētā Workshop Game Studio
Platforms: PC (Steam), PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: July 29, 2025 (after multiple delays)
Genre: Single‑player life simulation / Cozy RPG set in the Shire

The moment I saw the trailer, it felt like a cozy hug from Middle-earth. It’s not about dragons or rings—it’s about home, community, and growing taters. This isn’t your usual Lord of the Rings tale, and that’s exactly why it stands out.

What Makes It Great!

Authentic Shire Vibes
Soothing Gameplay
Life-Sim Gameplay Without Combat
Cross-Platform Polish

Community Buzz (From Players)

Reddit (r/CozyGamers) – Players are relieved that the delay gives Wētā more time to refine graphics and polish mechanics, especially given early footage looked rough. Many say they’re happy to wait if it means a better experience.
Reddit (r/LadiesGamersNews) – Fans express mixed feelings—sadness over another postponement but understanding that quality takes time. Several note they’ll still buy on launch day regardless.

Discounty

Developer: Crinkle Cut Games
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: August 21, 2025 (digital launch; physical PS5 and Switch editions also available)
Genre: Cozy Management Simulation / Life Sim RPG

This might be the most bizarre and brilliant concept I’ve seen this year. Discounty’s trailer delivers a chaotic, low-poly fever dream of shopping carts, discount hunts, and absurd humor. It feels like Untitled Goose Game meets WarioWare in a cursed supermarket—and that’s oddly perfect.

What Makes It Great!

Lively Town Dynamics
Cozy Yet Dramatic
Creative Freedom
Balanced Management & Social Gameplay

Community Buzz (From Players)

Reddit (r/CozyGamers) – Many users express genuine excitement:

“I personally can’t wait. It looks different from your typical cozy games…”
Anticipation is high, especially among fans of shop and life sims.
“I neeeeeed this game in my life now!”
There’s genuine hype about exploring the town and building friendships.

Solarpunk

Developer: Cyberwave (published by Rokaplay)
Platforms: PC (Windows), PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S
Release Date: 2025 (exact date TBA; playable demo featured at Steam Next Fest February 2025)
Genre: Cozy survival crafting / adventure simulation with renewable energy and building systems

(Credit: IGN)

The trailer paints a peaceful, beautifully engineered future—a total contrast to the usual dystopian fare. With floating islands, wind-powered tech, and farming meets survival gameplay, Solarpunk promises a vibe-heavy, co-op-ready escape into a greener world.

What Makes It Great!

Floating Island Sandbox
Cooperative Eco Gameplay
Harbor for Creativity & Planning

Community Buzz (From Players)

Reddit (r/Solarpunk) – After the demo dropped at Steam Next Fest, players described it as “mad cozy” and compared it to Animal Crossing meets eco-engineering. It was called exactly the calm break players needed from intense open-world titles.

Reddit (r/indiegames) – Fans admire the tiny team behind it—many comments highlight how two devs built a charming, flexible aesthetic with strong sustainable vibes: “Feels like Harvest Moon in the sky.”

Baby Steps

Developer: Gabe Cuzzillo, Maxi Boch, Bennett Foddy
Platforms: PC (via Steam), PlayStation 5
Release Date: September 8, 2025
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Walking Simulator

The trailer had me laughing instantly. You literally control a fully grown man learning to walk—step by awkward step. From the creators of Ape Out and Getting Over It, this is clearly a physics-based comedy wrapped in an oddly endearing story about personal growth (and falling down a lot).

What Makes It Great!

Hilariously Physics-Based Movement
Unique Blend of Humor and Exploration
From the Creators of Cult Favorites

Community Buzz (From Players)

YouTube is flooded with laughing emojis. One X user nailed it: “This is the most stupidly genius game I’ve ever seen. Day one purchase.”

Mixtape

Developer: Beethoven & Dinosaur
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PC (Steam), PS5
Release Date: 2025 (Exact date TBA)
Genre: Narrative Adventure / Coming-of-Age / Music

Watching the trailer for Mixtape felt like flipping through a photo album of chaotic high school memories—nostalgic, messy, and full of heart. The blend of vibrant visuals and iconic indie tracks immediately set the tone for a story that’s more about feelings than events. You don’t just play through a senior year road trip—you relive those awkward, emotional, once-in-a-lifetime moments with a soundtrack that hits all the right notes.

What Makes It Great!

Music-Driven Narrative
Aesthetic & Emotion
Coming-of-Age Impact

Community Buzz (From Players)

YouTube (Official Xbox Channel) – Many players praised the emotional pull of the trailer, calling it “Life is Strange meets Sayonara Wild Hearts” and loving the music-driven scenes.
Reddit (r/XboxSeriesX) – Users are intrigued by the unique tone, saying it “captures that bittersweet summer-before-adulthood vibe” and “looks like something truly personal and different.”

The Mermaid’s Mask

Developer: SFB Games
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5
Release Date: Expected 2025
Genre: Murder Mystery / Visual Novel / Narrative Adventure

(Credit: Thinky Direct)

This sequel to Tangle Tower brings back Detective Grimoire and Sally in a fresh mystery. Investigate the curious murder of a submarine captain in a charming 3D world, filled with clever puzzles, unusual suspects, and the quirky humor the series is known for. The intriguing story promises plenty of twists and lighthearted detective fun.

What Makes It Great!

Immersive Mystery
Gorgeous Art
Aesthetic Atmosphere
Narrative-Focused Gameplay

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam Comments – Early buzz highlights excitement for the unique art style and premise. Many are calling it “an underwater Knives Out with a splash of fantasy.”
Socials – Fans of SFB Games’ Tangle Tower are hyped for a new narrative mystery with the same signature wit and visual flair.

Slay the Spire 2

Developer: MegaCrit
Platforms: PC (Early Access in 2025), consoles TBA
Release Date: Early Access planned for 2025
Genre: Roguelike Deckbuilder

The reveal trailer for Slay the Spire 2 sets the stage with familiar tension and intrigue—only now, it looks sharper, faster, and more ambitious. Built from the ground up in a new engine, the sequel maintains the core roguelike deckbuilding formula while teasing new characters, enemies, card synergies, and a more dynamic combat flow. It’s a fresh chapter in a genre-defining series.

What Makes It Great!

Evolved Visuals
New Characters, New Mechanics
Built for Modding & Replayability

Community Buzz (From Players)

Steam Wishlist: Skyrocketing after the trailer drop

Reddit & Discord: Theories flying around about playable characters and new relic mechanics

Fans’ Reaction: “It’s Slay the Spire on steroids,” “Don’t change too much—but bring the spice,” and “Day 1 buy!”

Toem 2

Developer: Something We Made
Platforms: TBA (PC and consoles likely)
Release Date: Not announced yet
Genre: Hand-drawn Adventure / Photography Puzzle

TOEM 2 picks up where the first game left off, once again inviting players into a whimsical world viewed entirely through a camera lens. The trailer shows off cozy, stylized environments bursting with charm, quirky characters, and brand-new regions to explore. While staying true to its black-and-white, hand-drawn aesthetic, the sequel looks to deepen the photo-adventure formula with layered puzzles and more interactive storytelling.

What’s New from the Trailer!

Expanded Exploration
More Meaningful Photography
Signature Charm Intact

Community Buzz (From Players)

Fans are calling it “a warm hug of a game”
Art style remains instantly recognizable—simple, yet emotionally rich
Anticipation is high, especially from the cozy/indie gaming crowd

Haunted Paws

Developer: Lazy Flock
Publisher: (TBA)
Platforms: PC (Steam)
Release Date: Coming Soon
Genre: Cozy Mystery / Adventure / Exploration

(Credit: IGN)

In Haunted Paws, you play as a ghostly pup returning from the afterlife to protect your beloved human—now a paranormal investigator—by helping solve supernatural mysteries in a heartfelt and cozy town.The trailer blends ghostly charm with warm, emotional storytelling and light puzzle-solving. It’s a mix of comforting vibes and subtle spooks—like Stray with spirit energy.