Doors & Loot has its share of rough edges, most notably its underwhelming controller support and limited combat feedback, but when played with a mouse and keyboard, it becomes a much more enjoyable experience. The core loop of exploring, looting, and upgrading offers enough satisfaction to keep you coming back for another run, especially in short bursts. It’s not going to blow anyone away, but it doesn’t need to. Sometimes, a simple dungeon crawler with a solid progression loop is enough. With a bit more polish, Doors & Loot could be something great. As it stands, it’s a charming and worthwhile indie that’s definitely worth trying, just steer clear of the controller and play it the way it clearly wants to be played. A free demo is available on Steam.
Cubic Odyssey surprised me. It’s one of those games that sneaks up on you; the more you play, the more it draws you in. Between the solid sci-fi theme, satisfying progression, and blend of structure and freedom, it delivers an experience that feels both familiar and fresh. If you’ve never been into crafting games, this might be your gateway. If you’re already a fan of the genre, there’s more than enough depth and novelty to keep you engaged. And with co-op in place and ongoing updates likely, it’s only going to get better from here. Whether you’re after a solo adventure or a shared sandbox with friends, Cubic Odyssey is a stellar time sink in the best way possible. A free demo is also available on Steam
Trident’s Tale is filled with strong ideas and pirate charm, but it’s not ready for prime time, at least not on Nintendo Switch. The technical issues are too glaring to ignore, from the blurry textures to the frame drops and janky animations. If a few substantial patches come down the line, or if the game sees a better-optimised release on other platforms or a potential Switch 2, this could become the fun, breezy adventure it clearly wants to be. Until then, consider holding off or checking it out elsewhere if possible. There’s a good game under the surface, but right now it’s buried under too many waves of performance problems.
Aureole: Wings of Hope is a fast, fun, and surprisingly clever spin on the platforming genre. It blends tight physics-based gameplay with an oddball premise and lovable characters. Sure, the difficulty can spike, and a few story scenes could be snappier, but when a game makes launching a halo through lava caverns feel like pure joy, you know it’s doing something right. If you’re after something original, energetic, and just a little offbeat, give Aureole: Wings of Hope a shot. It’s sent from above, and it plays like a dream.
Into the Restless Ruins is a standout title in the modern roguelike scene. It’s clever blend of card-based dungeon building and survivor-style action creates a rhythm that’s as addictive as it is original. The Scottish folklore backdrop adds a unique flavour, and the mechanics evolve in meaningful ways as you progress. Minor quibbles about familiar pixel visuals are easy to overlook when the gameplay loop is this fresh. Whether you’re here for the deckbuilding, the dungeon crawling, or just the thrill of a new kind of roguelike, this is one wish you’ll want to chase. A free demo is available on Steam, so there’s no excuse not to give it a shot.
Yasha: Legends of the Demon Blade doesn’t break new ground, but it’s a satisfying hack-and-slash experience with enough charm and variety to make it worth your time. The combat is fun, the characters are cool, and the world has a stylish edge, even if the story doesn’t dig too deep and the roguelite upgrades feel a bit bland. If you’re new to the genre, you’ll likely have a blast. If you’re a roguelite veteran, you might feel a sense of déjà vu. Still, if you’ve got room for one more run-based action game in your life, this one’s worth picking up for a weekend of demon-slaying fun and beyond.
Wings of Endless doesn’t try to change the genre; it just delivers everything you’d want from a 2D action-adventure RPG and does it well. With its dynamic combat, lovable cast, satisfying progression, and polished presentation, this is a game that quietly soars far above expectations. At its budget-friendly price and with a free demo available on Steam, there’s no reason not to give this one a shot. For anyone craving a retro-inspired adventure that respects your time and rewards your curiosity, this is a must-play
Dunk Dunk isn’t just a good time, it’s an instant good time. There are no long-winded cutscenes, no deep progression systems, and absolutely no filler. It knows what it is: a party-ready, platforming basketball brawl that’s here for short bursts of pure mayhem. It may not convert the hardcore sports simulation crowd, but for fans of platformers, couch co-op, and lighthearted competition, this is a no-brainer. Throw in a free demo, and Dunk Dunk is a slam dunk for arcade sports fans everywhere.
Bearnard is a charming, challenging, and creative game that defies expectations. It’s not for players seeking a fast, button-mashing fix. But for those who love turn-based strategy, puzzle-solving, and unique mechanics, this game is a hidden gem worth discovering. Stick with it through the steep early learning curve, and you’ll uncover one of the most original indie adventures in recent memory. A free demo for Bearnard is available on Steam.
Nico Saves the State stands out as a refreshingly original idea wrapped in a deceptively simple package. The puzzle-platforming, when it clicks, is extremely satisfying, thanks to the smart use of its save-based abilities. It’s not an easy game, controls take getting used to, and the one-hit-death mechanic will test your patience, but the core idea is strong and well executed. If you’re a fan of quirky puzzle games or want something that makes you think as much as it makes you jump, Nico Saves the State is worth checking out. Just be ready to save… and load… and repeat.
Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds Ultimate delivers a tight, stylish beat ‘em up that blends arcade action with the depth of a fighting game. Whether you’re in it for the couch co-op mayhem, the deep skill system, or just the chance to wreck bad guys with a giant anime sword, there’s something here for everyone. It’s an easy game to pick up for a quick session and rewarding enough to come back to repeatedly. Whether alone or with friends, this one punches way above its chibi weight class.
Horse Runner DX is a simple yet satisfying arcade experience. It’s the ideal kind of game for short, stress-free sessions, offering an easygoing challenge without demanding too much mental energy. With its addictive “just one more run” appeal, it’s an ideal pick for casual gamers and horse lovers alike. Whether or not you’re a fan of horses, there’s a fun time to be had here. Fancy trying first? A free demo is also available on Steam.
Seafrog is the kind of indie gem that dares to do something different, and totally sticks the landing (and the trick combo). With smooth gameplay, charming presentation, and a clever mash-up of genres, it’s a sea-soaked adventure that feels fresh at every turn. If you’ve got a love for platformers, skating games, or just weird and wonderful premises, then this frog’s for you. Strap in, hold your wrench tight, and get ready to grind the high seas in style.
Rusty Rabbit is a thoroughly enjoyable mech-hopping adventure. It blends quirky humour, heartfelt storytelling, and satisfying action in a way few games dare to. Yes, the cutscenes can break the pacing, and the Switch version isn’t flawless, but the charm and originality more than make up for it. If you’re looking for something that feels different, something that proves middle-aged rabbits (and gamers) still have plenty of kick left in them, this is one worth digging up. A free demo is also available on the eShop.
Polterguys: Possession Party is the type of party game that manages to feel fresh, funny, and frantic without relying on several mini-games. It’s a decent shake-up of the genre with enough originality to keep players coming back. It may have a limited scope solo. But multiplayer, whether you’re partying online or yelling at your sister for turning into a portal and ditching you to the monster, this one’s a hauntingly good time. A free demo is also available on Steam.
Skies Above is another strong showing from publisher Flynn’s Arcade, and perhaps one of their most refined yet. They sure know how to pick their developers. It blends arcade-style immediacy with roguelike depth, all wrapped in a charming and heartfelt package. You’ll come for the satisfying aerial combat, but you’ll stay because you want to protect your flying space whale. Ideal for short sessions but loaded with enough progression to keep you playing for the long haul, Skies Above is absolutely worth your time, especially if you’re a fan of quick-fire roguelikes with a unique twist.
Star Overdrive is one of those games that might fly under the radar but deserves a second look from anyone who loves exploration-focused games with strong traversal mechanics. Its combat is light, and some systems (like crafting) could use more clarity, but these are small blemishes in what is otherwise a smooth, satisfying ride. It won’t appeal to every type of gamer, and those looking for fast-paced action or tightly directed stories might find it too laid-back. However, for players who love open-world discovery and creative movement, there’s a lot to love here. The hoverboard alone is worth the price of admission. If you want a taste a free demo is available on the eShop.
Game Over – A Musical RPG?? is not your average indie game. It’s strange, soulful, and stuffed with personality. With its unique blend of rhythm combat, moral choice, and off-kilter humour, it’s bound to become a cult favourite among fans of unconventional RPGs. If you’re into games that play with genre expectations and don’t mind a little weirdness along the way, give it a shot. Even if it’s not your thing, it’s one ride you won’t forget.
Sports: Renovations doesn’t try to reinvent the simulation genre, but it absolutely refines it. The game’s strength lies in its simplicity and charm. It respects your time, keeps the experience light and stress-free, and adds just enough story and personality to give your work a sense of purpose. Whether you’re knocking down walls or polishing basketball court floors, there’s something undeniably therapeutic about the process. If you’ve enjoyed titles like PowerWash Simulator or House Flipper, then Sports: Renovations is worth adding to your digital toolbox. It’s the kind of game that lets you zone out, unwind, and still feel productive, even if you’re just organizing virtual gym mats and wiping up virtual sweat.
Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition is bold, ambitious, and one of the most immersive open-world RPGs on the Switch. It’s not perfect; the story takes a while to get going, and some systems can feel overwhelming at first, but the sheer freedom and scale more than makeup for it. If you love exploring alien worlds, building up a squad of oddballs, and fighting massive creatures with mechs, you’re going to have a blast here. And if you missed it on Wii U, this Switch version is, without question, the best way to play.