Best Indie RPGs to Watch for in 2024

1. A Space for the Unbound

Set in rural Indonesia during the late 1990s, “A Space for the Unbound” captures the essence of nostalgia while offering a captivating narrative-driven experience. Developed by Mojiken Studio, the game follows a boy and his girlfriend as they navigate personal struggles and supernatural elements. Players can expect a blend of breathtaking visuals, emotional storytelling, and character-driven adventures. The game utilizes pixel art aesthetics that evoke a sense of warmth and charm, coupled with a modernized mechanics system that delights RPG enthusiasts.

Key Features:

• Emotional storytelling that tackles themes of mental health and interpersonal relationships.
• Stunning visuals inspired by Indonesian culture.
• Unique gameplay mechanics, including time manipulation and exploration.

2. Dordogne

An indie project by Un je-ne-sais-quoi, “Dordogne” takes players on a picturesque journey through the French countryside. This game highlights watercolor visuals that create a dream-like quality, guiding players through a nostalgic world filled with memories and secrets. As the protagonist, players unfold a rich narrative that weaves elements of family, childhood, and loss. The gameplay focuses on exploration and puzzle-solving, offering a heartwarming experience with a captivating soundtrack.

Key Features:

• Visually stunning watercolor art style enhances immersion.
• Rich narratives emphasizing emotional connections and memories.
• Diverse gameplay features including exploration and puzzle-solving elements.

3. Sea of Stars

Developed by Sabotage Studio, “Sea of Stars” is an homage to classic RPGs infused with modern design philosophies. This turn-based RPG marries 16-bit visuals with a compelling storyline about two Children of the Solstice. Players can anticipate exploration that blends classic RPG elements with new mechanics such as time travel and combat that emphasizes strategic planning. The game features a rich soundtrack from Yasunori Mitsuda, renowned composer of “Chrono Trigger.”

Key Features:

• Classic turn-based gameplay with modern enhancements.
• Diverse character abilities and strategies.
• Stunning soundtrack that complements the narrative journey.

4. Chia

Inspired by New Caledonian culture, “Chia” by Awaceb is an indie treasure that focuses on exploration and transformation. Set in a stunning open-world island, players can explore lush landscapes while using the protagonist’s ability to possess animals and objects. Themes of nature, home, and adventure shine through, making it an engaging experience for players who enjoy open-world exploration combined with RPG elements.

Key Features:

• Diverse environment filled with flora and fauna unique to New Caledonia.
• Possession system allows players to experience the world from different perspectives.
• Emphasis on exploration and discovering local culture and lore.

5. Little Devil Inside

“Little Devil Inside” by Neostream Interactive offers a whimsical take on action RPGs, weaving survival elements into its gameplay. Set in a stylized world, players are tasked with undertaking a variety of quests while managing resources for survival. A distinctive art style sets it apart, featuring a blend of vibrant colors and quirky designs. Players will navigate landscapes that range from lush forests to treacherous mountains, all while engaging in combat and tackling compelling narratives.

Key Features:

• Unique blend of RPG mechanics and survival gameplay.
• Striking art style that captivates players.
• Varied environments to explore fueled by quest-based narratives.

6. The Last Faith

AMetroidvania-style experience, “The Last Faith” combines action and role-playing elements to deliver a gripping dark fantasy narrative. Developed by Kumi Souls Games, players will explore a gothic world filled with intricate lore, enemies, and challenges. The atmospheric pixel art creates an engaging world while combat mechanics resemble a souls-like experience, requiring skillful navigation and strategy from players.

Key Features:

• Metroidvania design encourages exploration and growth.
• Dark theme with gothic horror elements.
• Intricate world-building and storytelling.

7. Fae Farm

Published by Phoenix Labs, “Fae Farm” merges farming simulation with RPG elements, encouraging players to build and manage their own farm in a magical world. Set in a vibrant fantasy realm, players cultivate crops, craft items, and explore dungeons to collect resources. The game features cooperative gameplay, allowing friends to adventure and farm together, broadening the experience.

Key Features:

• Combine farming mechanics with adventure RPG gameplay.
• Cooperative multiplayer invites engagement.
• Beautifully designed fantasy world filled with charm.

8. Eternum Ex

Blending traditional RPG mechanics with modern storytelling, “Eternum Ex” immerses players in a retro-inspired universe filled with adventure, puzzles, and turn-based combat. Players can customize their characters and engage in an engaging story steeped in ancient mythology. With its pixel art visuals and engaging narrative, the game promises to rekindle the magic of classic RPGs while appealing to a contemporary audience.

Key Features:

• Classic turn-based combat mechanics infused with modern twists.
• Extensive character customization and lore-rich world.
• Engaging narrative with interconnected storylines.

9. Bramble: The Mountain King

Inspired by Scandinavian folklore, “Bramble: The Mountain King” is a unique blend of action and adventure RPGs. The game explores themes of childhood fears and enchanting tales, wrapped in visually rich environments. Players will embark on a journey through dark woods and mythical creatures, solving puzzles and engaging in spectacular encounters. A key focus on narrative exploration makes it a standout title.

Key Features:

• Deeply rooted in folklore, offering rich storytelling.
• Dark atmospheric environments packed with detail.
• Unique creature interactions and puzzle-solving challenges.

10. Folk Tale

“Folk Tale” is a unique indie RPG that focuses on crafting, building, and managing a fantasy village. Players take the role of a hero who recruits villagers and shapes the community. This blend of strategy and RPG mechanics allows for creative storytelling, giving players the autonomy to affect the world around them. Its colorful art style and charming atmosphere offer an entertaining experience that draws players into its vibrant universe.

Key Features:

• Mix of RPG and strategy mechanics for immersive gameplay.
• Dynamic village-building and resource management.
• Colorful visuals and engaging character designs.

11. Stardew Valley Expanded

Though an extension of the beloved farming simulator “Stardew Valley,” “Stardew Valley Expanded” offers even more for fans of the genre. This substantial mod adds new content including characters, locations, and quests, enriching the game’s already extensive narrative. As players continue to manage their farms while exploring deeper relationships, this mod ensures a fresh take on a classic RPG.

Key Features:

• New characters and storylines enrich the gameplay experience.
• Enhanced graphics and optimization.
• Existing “Stardew Valley” gameplay mechanics with expanded content.

12. Gravewood High

If horror and RPG elements are of interest, “Gravewood High” promises a spooky adventure with its captivating plot set in a haunted school. Players navigate a school teeming with mystery, pursuing clues while interacting with frightening enemies. The game’s combination of stealth mechanics and engaging narratives presents a compelling experience for fans of the horror genre seeking RPG elements.

Key Features:

• Stealth and puzzle-solving mechanics heighten the thrill.
• Rich narratives steeped in mystery and horror.
• Unique art style that adds to the overall atmosphere.

13. Mythic Ocean

An ambient exploration RPG, “Mythic Ocean” invites players to dive into the depths of a magical ocean. As a god-like figure, players interact with diverse sea creatures, each with their unique stories and challenges. The gameplay emphasizes player choice and consequence, impacting the game’s world significantly as players engage with its inhabitants and their actions.

Key Features:

• Unique underwater setting with a focus on environmental storytelling.
• Choice-based mechanics lead to varied gameplay outcomes.
• Peaceful and immersive atmosphere that encourages relaxation.

14. Night School Studio’s Oxenfree II: Lost Signals

Following the success of the first title, “Oxenfree II: Lost Signals” continues to explore the mystery-heavy narrative world filled with supernatural elements. Players take control of new protagonist Riley as they uncover a haunting story that intertwines fate, friendship, and choice. The captivating art style of the original returns, ensuring an immersive experience.

Key Features:

• Engaging narrative-driven RPG gameplay.
• Supernatural elements that influence story progression.
• Strong emphasis on player choice and relationships.

15. Slime Rancher 2

As a sequel to the beloved original, “Slime Rancher 2” expands on the whimsical world of slime-collecting. Players explore new biomes, capture various types of slimes, and expand their ranches. The balance of exploration, resource management, and quirky humor creates a lighthearted RPG experience perfect for fans of engaging gameplay and charming landscapes.

Key Features:

• Expanded worlds filled with cute and colorful slimes.
• Resource management and crafting elements.
• Engaging multiplayer components foster creativity and interaction.

As indie RPGs continue to evolve in 2024, these titles promise creativity, engaging storytelling, and innovative gameplay mechanics. Players can look forward to exploring diverse worlds filled with rich narratives, whether through the lens of heartwarming nostalgia or gripping adventure.