No matter your gaming style – from solo projects to large studios with multiple teams – 2017 promises plenty of indie titles to explore that will surprise, delight, and frustrate in equal measure.
Rogue Legacy 2, an indie roguelike game developed by NcSoft and released this fall, brings even greater excitement to the genre. A more polished take on its predecessor’s success is now available here.
1. Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree
Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree is an exciting Metroidvania-style side-scrolling game featuring dark fantasy aesthetic and an expansive world to discover. Its atmospheric landscapes create an immersive adventure, while deep customization options and class variety provide ample replay value.
The gameplay is satisfying even for veterans of Souls-like titles; however, some components could benefit from some fine-tuning.
Some bosses feature unique mechanics that prevent them from being defeated through pure skill alone, such as one that requires players to fight a wave of enemies while keeping an eye on a timer before it expires – this type of mechanic can be disconcerting and annoying; yet overall Mandragora stands up as an impressive addition to its genre.
2. Rogue Legacy 2
Rogue Legacy made waves when it launched back in 2013, and its sequel hasn’t disappointed in early access. Cellar Door Games took the fundamental elements of roguelite games – navigating procedurally generated castles while fighting your way forward to become empowered descendants – and improved them dramatically – a feat Rogue Legacy managed.
This feature includes a more attractive art style than its pixel art predecessor and options to set House Rules that can help players tailor the difficulty level for an accessible gaming experience.
Rogue Legacy 2 fills an important niche within modern gaming, offering a strong sense of progression even when faced with repeated defeat. This game stands as one of the finest examples of indie gaming’s unique ability to iterate on its idiosyncratic formula while continuously improving upon itself.
3. Sea of Stars
Sea of Stars is an incredible throwback to 16-bit RPGs from the 90s, featuring graphics and mechanics that pay homage to its influences while adding unique twists that make it feel like its own game.
Sea of Stars’ world is rich with legend and prophecy that have provided some of the genre’s greatest moments. There are mysterious dark shrines where fallen heroes rest their souls while ancient dragons rest within rocky lairs.
Pixel art is stunning, complemented by some outstanding animations that bring characters alive. Furthermore, composer Yasunori Mitsuda who has worked on some of the most beloved JRPGs is featured as part of its soundtrack – adding even further depth.
4. Blasphemous 2
Sabotage Studio proved they could create an engaging roguelike experience with Ninja Sidescroller Throwback, and Blasphemous 2 is even better. While its narrative may present players with challenges similar to FromSoftware titles, its unsettling enemies and stunning boss fights stand out as stand-out features of this title.
Seville-based developer Red Rocket Games takes the Metroidvania formula one step further by crafting an intricate map, demanding platforming, and punishing combat experience that’s packed with dark aesthetics and Catholic imagery for an extra sense of horror. Penitent One explores a world that seems betrayed by faith – only to meet half-mad denizens performing religious rites or selling upgrades as half-crazed half-madness adds gothic flavor – not forgetting its gorgeous pixel art graphics!
5. Blazing Chrome
Blazing Chrome stands out as one of the finest examples of modern reviving classic run and gun games, taking inspiration from Konami’s Contra series while providing a thrilling journey through six missions filled with thrilling set pieces, fast gameplay and epic boss battles.
Owen Trett is an accomplished producer, gamer, and video editor for Poncle. His productions have been shown at PC Gaming Show, Nintendo Direct, and Day of the Devs events.
21XX takes us back to a futuristic world ruled by machines, with humans seen as expendable labor. When a rebel group obtains intel on an AI power plant, they embark on a suicide mission against it to bring down its AI technology – violence, explosions and humorous dialogue all add spice to their campaign against it.
6. Sheepy: A Short Adventure
Sheepy has quickly become one of the highest rated games on Steam for good reason: with its charming platformer gameplay, exceptional soundtrack and animations, and captivating narrative surrounding a mining disaster’s aftermath.
MrSuicideSheep’s debut game project blends elements from Inside, Little Nightmares and Celeste into an incredible and captivating experience. Explore a broken world and uncover its mysteries while leading Sheepy through it – an abandoned plushy that comes to life!
Stray stands out in the indie gaming scene by boasting engaging mechanics and an unexpectedly touching story, while boasting tight and precise controls for an engaging, stylish experience. Fans of Team Cherry should check it out – it won’t disappoint!
7. Tenjutsu
2025’s indie games come from one-man independent developers to larger studios, pushing the limits of design and gameplay in 2025. Ranging from Metroid-inspired sci-fi titles to puzzlers about working in food industry environments, indie titles offer something for all players.
Axiom Verge is an expansive sci-fi side-scroller directly inspired by Nintendo’s classic series, boasting brilliant level design, unique weapons and roguelike mechanics that ensure an unforgettable gaming experience from beginning to end.
Deltarune by solo developer Toby Fox was an enormous hit when it was released in 2016; offering a unique take on middle-class American life while playing as the adorable feline protagonist, boasting deep fighting mechanics and surreal story arcs that will delight fans of Undertale. An indie title sure to please!
