Top 15 best indie games on Switch

The Nintendo Switch is the perfect device if you’re into indie games. But sometimes you might get bored by playing the same titles repeatedly. If that’s the case, you’ll be glad to know we’ve created a list of the
which you must try.
The titles we have included on our list are easily available on the Nintendo Switch store and the listing is based on the popularity of the game at the time of writing. We will be updating this list with new additions, so check back every now and then.

What are the best indie games on Nintendo Switch?

Indie games are usually developed by an individual game developer or a very small team. Generally, there is no funding or support involved in the making and maintenance.

As a seasoned gamer with years of experience under my belt, I must say that this list of indie games for Nintendo Switch is nothing short of exceptional! Each game offers a unique and immersive experience that caters to different tastes.

Over the last several years, we’ve seen a marked rise in the quantity of independent video games, which coincides with a growing community of independent game developers. The perks of being an indie developer come from their autonomy as they aren’t bound by any organization, giving them the freedom to create based on their own creative impulses.

“Let’s check out the 15 finest independent games available on Nintendo Switch! Just click the large blue button beneath for a peek.

1 Cuphead

As a devotee, I’m utterly smitten by this 1930s cartoon-style co-op action platformer, heavily emphasizing epic boss battles! If you remember those vintage Disney classics featuring Mickey Mouse, it’s strikingly reminiscent of that charm. Frankly, it’s astounding that no game has attempted this unique aesthetic before. The characters are meticulously drawn and animated, and the effects are minimal, ensuring a clutter-free experience so you can focus on the action unfolding.

In our previous discussion, we highlighted the well-executed boss battles in the game Cuphead, which can easily compare with renowned titles such as Dark Souls and Hollow Knight. However, be advised, this game is exceptionally challenging – it’s one of the hardest I’ve ever played. But once you conquer these difficulties, the sense of achievement is truly rewarding!

2 Dead Cells

One of the best roguelike indie titles for Switch, Dead Cells, is about a creature that was formed following a failed science experiment. In the beginning, you will have to acquire a dead body to control the cells and gradually develop into a proper living being. In case you really like it, you’re going to need the Dead Cells weapons tier list, because it won’t be easy to discover all of the weapons right away.

This game offers adaptable stages, with the level of difficulty in each phase fluctuating unpredictably based on your past attempts and skill level. It boasts numerous dungeons and formidable bosses for you to conquer, but don’t be fooled by its appearance – it’s not as simple as it seems.

Buy Dead Cells for $24.99

3 Hades

Interested in Greek mythology? Hades is a must-try indie title that gives you a broader outlook on Greek mythology. In this action dungeon crawler, you will play as the son of Hades, Zagreus and help him escape and reach Mount Olympus.

In your journey, you’ll discover an array of attack strategies by unearthing several types of weapons. Alongside these, there are plenty of valuable treasures waiting to be collected. These riches will enable you to purchase essential items and weaponry within the hack-and-slash combat system. Should you have already tried Hades, there are similar games available as well.

Buy Hades for $24.99

4 Golf Story

This list would be incomplete without adding a sports title, so we’ve included Golf Story by Sidebar Games. In order to show your golfing skills, you will have to enter the story mode and choose one of the eight courses that are available to play.

In Golf Story, it’s more than simply teeing off on diverse courses; it delves into uncovering the hidden stories and personalities behind the scenes as well.

Buy Golf Story for $14.99

5 Hollow Knight

Looking for some action in a kingdom filled with insect knights? Team Cherry’s 2D action title, Hollow Knight is absolutely worth trying. Throughout your adventure, you will explore the underground world while tackling various enemies and powerful bosses..

In this contemporary side-scrolling gem, you’ll have the freedom to shape the storyline as you play, with the gameplay adapting accordingly. You’ll encounter spooky creatures and wicked bosses along the way, overcoming them will unlock quests and in-game bonuses. However, be warned that compared to other top indie games on Switch, this one might offer a particularly tough challenge!

Buy Hollow Knight for $15.00

6 My Friend Pedro

As the title says, Blood.Bullets.Banana, My Friend Pedro lets you enjoy shooting in a slow-mo action environment in an underworld that requires precision and perfect aim to slay your enemies.

In simple terms, My Friend Pedro offers a unique shooting experience where you can divide your bullets among targets as you spin around, making it distinct from other shooter games. Additionally, it boasts a competitive aspect where your score on each level gets ranked on a leaderboard.

Buy My Friend Pedro for $19.99

7 If Found…

Next, we have a beautiful visual novel where you have to erase the memories from a journal to progress. Sounds interesting, right? If Found… from Annapurna tells the story about Kasio from December 1993, after she destroys her diary.

To advance to the next chapter and finish your journey, you’ll need to clear the entries in her journal to reveal new occurrences. The game ‘If Found…’ has gained widespread appeal due to its engaging soundtrack, beautifully hand-drawn illustrations, and distinctive mechanics that elevate it to a higher plane.

Buy If Found… for $12.99

8 Cloudpunk

Cloudpunk is an open-world adventure game that features an interesting evolving storyline with visually impressive cyberpunk elements. The story is set in a future where you control a HOVA, which is a flying car.

Essentially, you’ll take on the role of a delivery driver working for Cyberpunk. Your main responsibilities involve transporting goods and dropping off passengers. The city is filled with various tasks and missions that you can access as you explore.

Buy Cloudpunk for $24.99

9 Stardew Valley

One of the most popular role-playing games on multiple platforms, Stardew Valley is for those who love farming. You are handed the keys to your grandfather’s old farm and tasked with carrying out various farming activities such as growing crops, watering them and raising livestock.

In addition, this farming simulation game offers multiplayer functionality, enabling you to bring up to three friends to farm together in synchronous play. Besides tending to your farm, you can also participate in a range of additional activities such as fishing, cooking, and embarking on treasure hunts. If you’ve enjoyed it so much, we’ve compiled a collection of games similar to Stardew Valley for you to explore.

Buy Stardew Valley for $14.99

10 The Long Dark

The Long Dark is considered to be the best survival game on Switch since it was released in September, last year. After a geomagnetic storm, a pilot crashed their aeroplane into a forest in Canada. It’s now up to your to survive in this treacherous place.

As you brace yourself for enduring the harsh conditions of the forest during winter, it’s essential that you gather adequate supplies like food, water, and fire materials. Furthermore, securing protection against potential encounters with wild creatures by scavenging the surroundings to craft defensive tools will be vital for your survival.

Buy The Long Dark for $34.99

11 Darkest Dungeon

Darkest Dungeon is an exceptional indie game with a dark fantasy atmosphere, reminiscent of a gothic tale. Its unique art style is moody and intricate, the gameplay is deep and challenging, and it features unusual yet compelling characters. The game incorporates intriguing mechanics involving buffs and debuffs that add an extra layer of strategy to the game.

Throughout the game, they may encounter diverse afflictions like anxiety, apprehension, and substance abuse. Conversely, they can feel invigorated following a victorious battle, joyful upon discovering something delightful, and develop resistance to illnesses. If you’re an avid gamer seeking a tough challenge and the captivating ambiance of dark fantasy, it’s definitely worth delving into! To assist newcomers, we’ve prepared a guide for Darkest Dungeon which should provide helpful insights on common challenges that may arise during gameplay.

Buy Darkest Dungeon for $24.99

12 Firewatch

Despite being an independent production, Firewatch received a nomination for Game of the Year in 2016 alongside titles like Overwatch, Uncharted 4, and Doom. The game is about a middle-aged individual who chooses to take on the role of a forest ranger for the summer season.

Firewatch presents a straightforward gaming experience, yet it’s the captivating characters and vivid aesthetic that build an extraordinarily immersive sense of a mini-adventure. The Nintendo console controls, offering a delightful tactile feedback, significantly enhance the game’s atmosphere.

Buy Firewatch for $19.99

13 Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime

In a nutshell, “Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime” is an entertaining cooperative game launched back in 2015. Here, you’ll find yourself piloting as a spacefaring animal, battling foes aboard your vessel.

Collaboration is crucial in this game as you and your companions will be managing distinct sections of the spaceship. Given its straightforward mechanics, you’ll pick it up quickly. However, some tasks you’ll encounter can be challenging yet engaging. The vibrant visual aesthetic and cheerful theme make it an ideal fit for this game.

Buy Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime for $14.99

14 Night in the Woods

In simpler terms, Night in the Woods is a visually appealing game centered around a melancholic feline character returning to her hometown. The graphics are straightforward yet charming, and the game mechanics aren’t overly complex.

Above all, this title stands out as both amusing and endearing, focusing on friendships and escapades. It carries an authentic feel akin to everyday experiences, where characters grapple with challenges that mirror real-life situations. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a leisurely reading experience filled with pleasure.

Buy Night in the Woods for $19.99

15 Oxenfree

Initially, Oxenfree presents a captivating and chilling narrative. The plot revolves around a group of adolescents gathering on an island, where mysterious occurrences begin unfolding in this atmospheric and engaging tale.

It is not really a horror game but a convoluted supernatural story. The well-written dialogues reveal all the rivalry and secret desires that a group of teenagers has. The graphic is rather simple, but the style is great and complements the atmosphere of Oxenfree nicely.

Buy Oxenfree for $9.99

We hope you found what you were looking for on our list of the best indie games on Nintendo Switch! Have fun!

2024-09-19 11:19