Indie games have carved out a special place in the gaming world by offering unique, creative, and often experimental experiences. When it comes to multiplayer games, indie developers have truly shined, delivering a wide variety of games that focus on fun, teamwork, and connection. Whether you’re looking for competitive challenges or cooperative adventures, here’s a curated list of the best indie multiplayer games to enjoy with friends.
Platform: PC, Mobile, Console
Genre: Social Deduction
Among Us became a global phenomenon for its simple yet incredibly engaging gameplay. In this social deduction game, players work together to complete tasks on a spaceship while impostors secretly sabotage and eliminate crewmates. It’s the perfect mix of strategy, deception, and humor—ideal for groups of friends.
Why Play It?
Platform: PC, Mobile, Console
Genre: Farming Simulation/RPG
While Stardew Valley is known for its relaxing single-player experience, its co-op mode adds a whole new layer of enjoyment. Work together with friends to build a thriving farm, mine for resources, fish, and explore the world. It’s the perfect game for unwinding and bonding.
Why Play It?
Platform: PC, Console
Genre: Cooperative Cooking Simulation
In Overcooked! 2, you and your friends step into the shoes of frantic chefs racing to prepare meals in chaotic kitchens. Communication and teamwork are key as you navigate tricky obstacles, unexpected hazards, and time constraints.
Why Play It?
Platform: PC, Console
Genre: Survival Adventure
Don’t Starve Together is the multiplayer version of the critically acclaimed survival game Don’t Starve. Players must work together to gather resources, craft tools, and fend off creepy monsters while trying to survive in a strange and unforgiving world.
Why Play It?
Platform: PC, Mobile, Console
Genre: Puzzle Platformer
Human: Fall Flat is a physics-based puzzle game that’s as hilarious as it is fun. Players control wobbly characters and solve puzzles by using creative approaches and teamwork. The unpredictable physics often lead to laughable moments, making it a hit for multiplayer sessions.
Why Play It?
Platform: PC, Console
Genre: Cooperative First-Person Shooter
In Deep Rock Galactic, players take on the role of space dwarves working for a mining corporation. Explore procedurally generated caves, mine valuable resources, and fend off hordes of alien creatures. The game’s focus on teamwork and class-based roles makes it an excellent multiplayer experience.
Why Play It?
Platform: PC, Console
Genre: Run-and-Gun Platformer
Cuphead’s hand-drawn 1930s cartoon-inspired visuals are paired with punishingly challenging gameplay. In co-op mode, you and a friend can tackle its boss fights together. It’s tough, but the sense of achievement is well worth it.
Why Play It?
Platform: PC
Genre: Horror/Investigation
If you’re a fan of spooky adventures, Phasmophobia is the perfect indie multiplayer game for you and your friends. This ghost-hunting game tasks players with investigating haunted locations, identifying spirits, and surviving terrifying encounters.
Why Play It?
Platform: PC, Console
Genre: Party Brawler
Gang Beasts is a hilarious multiplayer brawler featuring gelatinous characters battling it out in absurd environments. With its simple controls and unpredictable physics, it’s perfect for casual gaming sessions with friends.
Why Play It?
Platform: PC, Console
Genre: Cooperative Railroad Builder
Unrailed! is a cooperative game where players must work together to build a train track across procedurally generated landscapes. The catch? Resources are limited, and the train never stops moving, leading to frantic and fun gameplay.
Why Play It?
Indie multiplayer games have something for everyone, from relaxing farming simulations to fast-paced party games and challenging survival adventures. They’re perfect for connecting with friends and creating memorable gaming moments. Whether you’re looking for teamwork, competition, or just a good laugh, the games listed above are guaranteed to deliver.
Xbox Game Pass is a treasure trove for indie game enthusiasts, offering a diverse lineup of titles that cater to all kinds of players. Whether you enjoy deck-building roguelikes, action-adventure stories, or quirky simulations, there’s something for everyone. Here are 10 standout indie games on Xbox Game Pass you shouldn’t miss:
A brilliant fusion of deck-building and roguelike mechanics, Slay the Spire challenges players to ascend a procedurally generated spire, crafting a unique deck along the way. Strategic decisions and adaptability are key to conquering its varied challenges.
This charming life simulation game invites you to restore your father’s workshop in the idyllic town of Portia. Engage in crafting, farming, and building relationships with quirky townsfolk, making it a perfect escape for fans of relaxed gameplay.
Relive the arcade glory days with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge. This retro-inspired beat ‘em up delivers thrilling co-op action, vibrant visuals, and a nostalgic nod to the TMNT franchise.
A sci-fi exploration masterpiece, No Man’s Sky offers an infinite universe to discover. Build bases, explore planets, and engage in space battles in this ever-expanding and visually stunning experience.
Embrace chaos and absurdity in Goat Simulator 1 and 3. These hilarious sandbox games let you wreak havoc as a goat, performing outrageous stunts and exploring a world where the rules of reality don’t apply. The sequel ramps up the madness with new features and even more absurdity.
A hauntingly atmospheric puzzle-platformer, Inside captivates with its dark visuals, eerie narrative, and ingenious puzzles. It’s a short but unforgettable experience that lingers long after completion.
Dive into frenetic twin-stick shooter action with Brotato. Play as a potato armed to the teeth, battling waves of enemies in fast-paced and highly replayable gameplay.
This isometric action-adventure game follows a cute fox on a perilous journey filled with challenging combat and intricate puzzles. Tunic stands out for its stunning art style and mysterious world.
A dark twist on the classic Pinocchio tale, Lies of P delivers intense Soulslike gameplay with a Victorian steampunk aesthetic. Its challenging combat and gripping narrative make it a standout in the indie RPG scene.
Dive into a nightmarish biomechanical world with Scorn. This first-person horror game draws inspiration from H.R. Giger, immersing players in unsettling environments filled with puzzles and grotesque creatures.
With its rotating library of games, Xbox Game Pass consistently supports indie developers and provides players with a platform to explore innovative and unique titles. From casual experiences to hardcore challenges, the service ensures there’s always something new to try.
These 10 indie games highlight the creativity and diversity within the indie game community. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the scene, Xbox Game Pass offers endless opportunities to discover your next favorite game. Dive in and start exploring!
The Nintendo Switch has become a haven for indie game lovers, offering a wide variety of creative and engaging titles that are perfect for gaming on the go or at home. Whether you’re into action-packed adventures, thought-provoking puzzles, or relaxing simulations, the Switch’s library has something for everyone. Here are some of the best indie games available for the Nintendo Switch that you absolutely need to check out.
Genre: Action-Adventure / Metroidvania
Why It’s Great: Hollow Knight is a masterpiece of atmospheric storytelling and challenging gameplay. Set in the hauntingly beautiful kingdom of Hallownest, this game combines stunning hand-drawn visuals, a compelling soundtrack, and intricate level design. Its exploration-based gameplay and tough-but-fair combat make it a must-play for fans of Metroidvania games.
Key Features:
Genre: Platformer
Why It’s Great: Celeste is a critically acclaimed platformer that blends challenging gameplay with a touching narrative about mental health and self-discovery. With tight controls and a series of expertly crafted levels, it’s as rewarding as it is challenging.
Key Features:
Genre: Action / Roguelike
Why It’s Great: Hades redefines the roguelike genre with its rich narrative, dynamic combat, and a colorful cast of characters inspired by Greek mythology. Every run feels fresh, thanks to randomized upgrades and evolving storylines.
Key Features:
Genre: Simulation / Adventure
Why It’s Great: Spiritfarer is a cozy yet bittersweet game about guiding spirits to the afterlife. Its stunning visuals, heartfelt story, and engaging gameplay mechanics make it a unique experience that stays with you long after you’ve finished.
Key Features:
Genre: RPG
Why It’s Great: Undertale is a quirky and deeply emotional RPG that subverts genre expectations. With its unique combat system and memorable characters, it offers an experience unlike any other.
Key Features:
Genre: Action / Run-and-Gun
Why It’s Great: Known for its stunning 1930s cartoon-inspired art style, Cuphead is a challenging run-and-gun game that tests your reflexes and patience. Its creative boss designs and fluid animations make it a visual and gameplay treat.
Key Features:
Genre: Narrative Adventure
Why It’s Great: Oxenfree is a supernatural thriller with a gripping story and innovative dialogue system. Its atmospheric visuals and eerie soundtrack set the tone for a memorable narrative experience.
Key Features:
Genre: Roguelike / Metroidvania
Why It’s Great: Dead Cells combines fast-paced combat with procedurally generated levels for endless replayability. Its roguelike mechanics are perfectly balanced, making every death a learning experience.
Key Features:
Genre: Platformer / Action
Why It’s Great: The Messenger starts as a classic 8-bit platformer and evolves into a time-traveling Metroidvania. Its witty writing, tight controls, and retro-inspired design make it a standout indie title.
Key Features:
The Nintendo Switch is home to some of the most innovative and memorable indie games ever made. From heartwarming adventures to challenging roguelikes, there’s something for everyone in its indie library. Dive into these games and discover why indie titles have become such a vital part of the gaming landscape.
Which of these indie gems will you try first? Let us know in the comments!