While AAA games dominate the gaming industry for the most part, the indie and lower-budget (AA) scene also has some great experiences to offer. However, these titles don’t always benefit from a high level of media exposure, and can go almost unnoticed in the face of all the new releases.
In this top, we’ll be highlighting the best indie and AA games currently available on consoles and PC. These two categories cover a wide range of genres, including narrative, exploration, reflection and pure gameplay.
It’s no easy task to put several independent games in the same category, such is the variety. Recently, Palworld has perfectly taken up the formula initiated by Pokémon, with battles between creatures that can be collected throughout the adventure. In another register, The Witness offers dozens of puzzles to be solved on a sumptuous island.
Despite their somewhat minimalist appearance sometimes, indies can also tell some truly memorable stories. This is the case of Inside, Disco Elysium and even Outer Wilds. The latter goes for environmental narrative amplified by the gameplay loop and ever-changing environment.
For its part, Vampire Survivors is a true model in the independent scene, with its easy-to-learn gameplay and addictive concept. Developer Poncle has single-handedly created a game that’s easy to grasp, yet difficult to fully master. Hidden beneath a deliberately retro look, this gothic horror game with a roguelite touch is a must-have.
As for AA games, Lies of P offers a real credible alternative to the famous Souls. With Life is Strange, players are treated to a poignant story and engaging characters. It doesn’t have to cost millions to create iconic titles.
1. Stray
- available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch and PC
2. Death’s Door
- available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch and PC
3. Little Nightmares
- available on PS4, Xbox One, Switch and PC
4. Palworld
- available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and PC
5. SOMA
- available on PS4, Xbox One, Switch and PC
6. Lies of P
- available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and PC
7. The Stanley Parable
- available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch and PC
8. Cult of the Lamb
- available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch and PC
9. Inside
- available on PS4, Xbox One, Switch and PC
10. The Case of the Golden Idol
- available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch and PC
11. Freedom Planet
- available on PS4, Switch and PC
12. Gorogoa
- available on PS4, Xbox One, Switch and PC
13. Return of the Obra Dinn
- available on PS4, Xbox One, Switch and PC
14. The Witness
- available on PS4, Xbox One and PC
15. Blasphemous 2
- available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch and PC
16. Outer Wilds
- available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch and PC
17. Disco Elysium
- available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch and PC
18. Vampire Survivors
- available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch and PC
19. Into the Breach
- available on Switch and PC
20. Life is Strange (franchise)
- available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Switch and PC
