Indika feels like a challenge to get through. With its main mechanic being its puzzles that break the game quite often, it might prove difficult for casual players to complete. But, if you’re looking for a game that you’ll want to tell your friends about as soon as the credits roll, this will be the perfect title for you. It’s unique, strange, funny, and unlike anything I’ve played before. If you can make it through, it’s worth the short, one time journey.

A mountain is many different things to different people. It’s one of the easiest and first markers used in analog map making. Home to many animals, and sacred ground to some. To those few, the mountain is the ultimate thrill, and at the same time the most serene place in nature.

Sucker for Love: Date to Die For is a sequel to 2022’s Sucker for Love: First Date from Developer Akabaka. Inspired by 90’s anime, both Sucker for Love titles feature a fun art style, unique characters and an out of this world story. And, in case I didn’t mention it, the sequel has a hot goat mommy. Okay, okay I’ll stop saying goat mommy.

Yellow Taxi Goes Vroom excels at delivering a retro-inspired throwback experience while also being it’s absolute own, original creation. The brutal difficulty may deter many players, but what Panik Arcade has achieved with Yellow Taxi Goes Vroom is no small feat.

But as you uncover more throughout the Pacific Northwest, the ride becomes smoother, engaging, and increasingly difficult to put down.

Turnip Boy Robs a Bank is a great sequel that fans of the first will be super excited about. Its characters are hilarious and charming, making for a great time from start to finish. While the simplistic gameplay can get pretty repetitive at times, it’s a fantastic roguelite that doesn’t overstay its welcome and is brilliantly ridiculous.

Asya’s story is inspired by the diaries of real children affected by the war and that is why we, as people whose parents, grandparents and great grandparents have lived through it too, should continue to tell stories like this. Torn Away forces the player to experience each and every excruciating or playful moment, is truly amazing. It gives us a close up look and reminds us of just how lucky we are to be here today.

Goodbye Volcano High is a fantastic narrative that provides themes and stories that are relatable to players of all ages and experiences. This six hour adventure is required playing for those that appreciate a powerful coming of age story that is presented in a new and unique way.

Carry Onward is about finding hope not in the act of reminiscing, but in what's to come after and it's genuinely tragic yet beautiful.

Thronefall is an engaging tower defense game that rewards maximizing your strategy through precision and base-building mechanics.

Frank and Drake's artistic prowess shines to the extent that I was left wanting more. Its puzzles are very organic, for better or worse, yet it's the game's intertwined narrative that carries the experience.

Smushi Come Home is an adorable, comical, and emotionally gripping game that is the perfect icing on the mushroom cake.

Return’s breathtaking dystopia paired with an engaging combat system not only makes for strong solo-developed debut, but one the year’s best games as well.

Tchia is a beautiful game that kept me engaged from beginning to end. The beautiful score, art style, and characters were distinct and memorable throughout my time with the game.

With improvements in every facet of gameplay, music, and visuals over the original game, Dead Cells: Return to Castlevania will capture your attention immediately and have plenty for you to sink your teeth into.

As a whole, Brok the InvestiGator is a must-play title for those who find themselves drawn toward compelling characters, points, clicks, or clever criminal investigations.

ATONE: Heart of the Elder Tree refreshingly separates itself from other titles with Norse mythology. Whether it's utilizing the game’s lore to create a compelling story filled with choice, strong characters, or contrasting combat, Wildboy Studios' hand-drawn rhythmic trek successfully carves its own creative identity.

SEASON: A letter to the future will immediately enrapture those who play. It’s stunning visuals, subtle score, or compelling characters all partake in crafting remarkable journey.

Lone Ruin is a great kickoff to 2023. Between its stunning visuals, action-packed gameplay, and killer build variety, Cuddle Monster Games’ engaging roguelike is certainly worth your time.

Once Upon a Jester feels like an actual labor of love in the best way. Whether it's an unorthodox yet genuine friendship, a laid-back comical nature, or breaking into song a bit too much, Bonte Avond has legitimately handcrafted an unforgettable title.