indie game Archives

AppWizard

June 5, 2025

Roguelike clean ’em up game Scrubbin’ Trubble announced for PC

Odd Object, a new studio led by Stevie Hryciw and Tyriq Plummer, is developing a game called Scrubbin’ Trubble, set to release on PC via Steam in 2025. It is a "roguelike clean ’em up" game that combines cleaning and combat, allowing solo or cooperative play for up to four players. Players can choose from six RPG-inspired classes, including Bubbaladin, Bleacher, and Washbuckler, each with unique abilities. The game features randomized levels called The House, where players face various enemies and must defeat one of the Four Filths of the Apocalypse to progress. Key features include character upgrades, pun-themed enemies, and specialized equipment like the "Wiper Rifle" and "Splash Bang." The game is designed for both short and long gaming sessions.

AppWizard

May 31, 2025

Misc. A Tiny Tale Confirmed For Release in Late July

Indie game developer Tinyware Games has announced that Misc. A Tiny Tale will be released on PC and Nintendo Switch on July 22. The game features two tiny robots, Buddy and Bag Boy, navigating a whimsical post-human world. Players will collect trash, coins, and golden cogs while solving puzzles and assisting robot inhabitants. The game emphasizes environmental stewardship by allowing players to recycle trash and repair machinery. The narrative involves restoring villages after a mysterious explosion and celebrates diversity and community. Misc. A Tiny Tale will also be compatible with the upcoming Switch 2.

AppWizard

May 26, 2025

SHADE Protocol Announced For PC Release In 2026

Little Legendary is developing a 2D cyber-fantasy Metroidvania game titled SHADE Protocol, set to launch on PC in 2026. Players will control Zura, a Replica with the ability to rewrite reality, in a world affected by Elythium, a sentient metal. The game features two modes, DAWN and SHADE, allowing for adaptable combat styles. Players will use musical weapons called Instruments, which have unique capabilities for combat and exploration. The UNISON System enables players to manipulate events and influence outcomes, while a dynamic combat system allows for precision melee combat and the restoration of Echo through parries and counters. The initial trailer highlights the game's artistic style and mechanics.

AppWizard

May 22, 2025

Turn-Based Tactical RPG Critical Shift Announced For PC & Consoles

Indie game developer Rhinotales Studio has announced their new game, Critical Shift, a hardcore turn-based tactical RPG set in an Antarctic research station. Players lead a squad of elite agents to investigate a distress call from ICE-1 Station, where communications have ceased. The game features a tactical combat system that emphasizes positioning and weapon range, allowing players to adapt their strategies in real-time. It includes over 30 levels with unique challenges, a story-driven narrative crafted by writer Guilty Three, and will be available on PC via Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation, though a release date has not been announced.

AppWizard

May 22, 2025

Queens students advance in Minecraft esports competition ahead of NYC’s first-ever Video Game Festival

On May 5, over 270 students from Queens participated in the semi-finals of the 2025 Minecraft Education Battle of the Boroughs at Thomas Edison High School. The event was organized by the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, NYC Public Schools, and the National Esports Association. This year's competition saw 3,295 students submit 659 entries, a 37% increase from last year and more than double the participation from 2023. Participants used Minecraft Education to create models of a sustainable New York City. The winning teams from Queens are: - Elementary Division: Team Sigma from PS 24 Andrew Jackson, led by Kerry McGarvey and Principal Bani Singh. - Middle School Division: Neo NYC from J.H.S. 185 Edward Bleeker, coached by Ana Silva-Collins under Principal Michael Leung. - High School Division: Diamond Sword Bustamoney from World Journalism Preparatory School, guided by Ernest Lai and Principal Michael Roberts Bacchus. These teams will represent Queens in the Mayor’s Cup Minecraft Education finals during the NYC Video Game Festival at Convene Brookfield Place in Manhattan. The festival will feature esports competitions, virtual reality experiences, indie game demonstrations, cosplay contests, and a career expo focused on the digital games industry. Deputy Mayor Adolfo Carrión Jr. highlighted the event's role in promoting career-connected learning and the city's digital economy. The final round will take place on May 31.

AppWizard

May 19, 2025

Cozy Food Puzzler Game Umami Announced For PC

Indie game developer Mimmox is set to release a cozy food-themed puzzle game titled Umami for PC in 2025. Players will engage in culinary creation by assembling meals from various food items in a timer-free environment. The game features 15 hand-painted dioramas, whimsical characters like Chef Bumblebake and Chef Sushiba, and opportunities to uncover hidden treasures. Umami promotes exploration and enjoyment without penalties for mistakes, aiming to provide a relaxing gaming experience. A trailer showcasing the game's mechanics and visuals is available for players.

AppWizard

May 17, 2025

Tabletop Game Shop Simulator Announced For PC

Knight Fever Games, in collaboration with Ludogram, has announced Tabletop Game Shop Simulator, a digital board game store management simulator. Players can manage and expand their own game shop, design layouts, set prices, hire staff, collect and paint miniatures, and engage with the community through events. The game was announced at the Games Made in France event, but does not have a confirmed release date. Players will navigate supply and demand, manage finances, and aim to become a prominent part of the board gaming community.

AppWizard

May 14, 2025

Mobile firm Brightika to invest $3m in PC and console titles

Brightika is investing a substantial amount over the next two years to enter the PC and console gaming market, aiming to support indie game development with financial backing, marketing, and publishing assistance. The company has nearly 200 million installations of its mobile games and plans to replicate this success in the new markets. Discussions are ongoing with various development teams, and some titles may be showcased at the Steam Next Fest from June 9th to 16th. Founder Alexander Rodichev highlights the goal of providing marketing and distribution support to developers in these sectors.

AppWizard

May 10, 2025

Steam Users Can Get 3 Games for Free for a Limited Time

Three Steam titles are being offered for free for a limited time. 1. Asterix & Obelix XXL: Romastered - A remastered action-adventure game from 2003, typically priced at .99, is available for free through Fanatical with a newsletter subscription until May 15 or while supplies last. It has a 78% approval rating from 581 user reviews. 2. Furi Demake – The Chain - This game has been free since November 30, 2023, but will require a purchase starting June 23, with pricing yet to be determined. It has a 92% approval rating from 331 user reviews. 3. The Flayed Man - This narrative-driven horror game has been free since its release on April 17, but will change to a paid model on May 17, with future pricing uncertain. It holds a 90% approval rating from 128 user reviews. Furi Demake – The Chain is verified for play on Steam Deck, while Asterix & Obelix XXL: Romastered is marked as playable. The status of The Flayed Man on the Steam Deck is uncertain.

AppWizard

May 8, 2025

Peak Sekiro-like Nine Sols gets a 40% price cut ahead of its 1-year anniversary, and if you’ve ever liked parrying in a videogame, you need to play this thing

Nine Sols is an indie game developed by Red Candle Games, released in May 2024. It combines metroidvania elements with parry-timing combat inspired by Sekiro. The game is currently available at a 40% discount until May 12. Players are encouraged to experience the gameplay before exploring supplementary materials like the prelude manga.