It feels like the making of a generational game requires one of two things: infinite amounts of development and marketing money, or one tiny team and a can-do attitude.
As we approach the halfway point of 2026, we've seen plenty of both, but the indie side of the fence is currently leading the line with two fantastic, original titles that have nothing in common.
A glance at OpenCritic's Best Games of 2026 shows an indie frontrow lockout, courtesy of Acrobatic Chirimenjako and Yacht Club Games.
A Hollower and a Confidant Walk Into a Bar
Yacht Club's Mina the Hollower had a pretty big reputation to live up to. The studio behind it made its name over a decade ago with Shovel Knight. The retro platformer was one of the biggest indie hits of its generation, selling millions of copies and spawning critically acclaimed spin-offs.
We took Mina the Hollower for a spin, and to say we were impressed would be an understatement. The game earned a perfect 10/10 score in our review, and the only downside we saw with it was that, I quote, "it ends." It currently shares the top of the table with a 93/100 score....
