The 10 Best Indie Games on Nintendo Switch in 2024
Reviewed by Huzaifa Haroon- Indie games are developed by small teams or solo developers without major studio support, often featuring unique art styles and narratives. They're more affordable than AAA games.
- The Nintendo Switch boasts a diverse indie game lineup, with titles like "Hades," "Disco Elysium," and "Hollow Knight" offering unique experiences ranging from action-packed adventures to deeply engaging stories.
- These games provide a platform for creative expression and innovative gameplay mechanics, allowing players to explore new and diverse gaming experiences beyond mainstream titles.
The Nintendo Switch continues to shine, and its indie game library is a big reason why. Indie games, developed by independent studios or even single developers, are often 2D with unique art styles and rich narratives. They’re made without the backing of large studios, are more affordable than AAA games, and offer a creative gaming experience.
Here are some of the top indie games you can enjoy on the Switch.
1. Hades
Genre: Action, Adventure, Rogue-like | Release Year: 2020 | Rating: 4.5★ | Price: $24.99
Hades, by Supergiant Studios, is a fast-paced rogue-like game with RPG elements. Known for its stunning fights, energetic soundtrack, and excellent art, it was a standout in 2020, winning Best Action Game and Best Indie Game at the Game of the Year Awards.
2. Disco Elysium
Genre: Adventure, Role-playing | Release Year: 2021 | Rating: 4.9★ | Price: $39.99
Originally released in 2019 for Windows, Disco Elysium came to the Switch in 2021 due to high demand. Developed by ZA/UM, it’s praised for its outstanding narrative, considered one of the best in gaming history. The game won four awards at the 2019 Game Awards: Best Narrative, Best Indie Game, Fresh Indie Game, and Best Role-Playing Game.
3. Hollow Knight
Genre: Action, Metroidvania | Release Year: 2018 | Rating: 4.8★ | Price: $15.00
Hollow Knight, developed by Team Cherry, is a challenging 2D Metroidvania game reminiscent of the Souls series. Known for its tough boss fights, captivating soundtrack, and stunning artwork, it offers a thrilling experience.
4. Sea of Stars
Genre: Turn-based, Role-playing | Release Year: 2023 | Rating: 4.5★ | Price: $34.99
Sea of Stars, developed by Sabotage Studio, is a homage to classic RPGs like Final Fantasy, featuring turn-based combat, a captivating narrative, a memorable soundtrack, and intricate puzzles. It earned the Best Independent Game award at The Game Awards 2023 and was nominated for Best Role-playing Game.
5. Spiritfarer
Genre: Adventure, Simulation | Release Year: 2020 | Rating: 4.6★ | Price: $29.99
Spiritfarer, developed by Thunder Lotus Games, is a heartwarming game about loss and farewells. It follows Stella and her cat, Daffodil, who succeed Charon as ferriers of souls to the afterlife, the Everdoor. With a soothing soundtrack and minimalist art, the game is emotionally impactful.
6. UNDERTALE
Genre: Turn-based, Role-playing | Release Year: 2018 | Rating: 4.8★ | Price: $14.99
Originally released in 2015, UNDERTALE, created by Toby Fox, is a celebrated indie game known for its unique combat, engaging narrative, and memorable soundtrack. It’s praised for its originality and is considered one of the greatest video games.
7. Stardew Valley
Genre: Simulation | Release Year: 2016 | Rating: 4.5★ | Price: $14.99
Developed by Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone, Stardew Valley is a relaxing farm-simulation game inspired by the Story of Seasons series. With charming pixel art and a melodic soundtrack, it encourages a laid-back approach.
8. Cuphead & The Delicious Last Course
Genre: Action, Shooter, Run-and-gun | Release Year: 2019 | Rating: 4.7★ | Price: $26.99
Cuphead, developed by Studio MDHR, is a 2D action shooter inspired by 1930s cartoons. Featuring watercolor backdrops, classic animation, and an old-fashioned soundtrack, it won awards for Best Independent Game and Best Art Direction at The Game Awards 2017.
9. Neon White
Genre: Action, Anime, First-person shooter, Puzzle platform | Release Year: 2022 | Rating: 4.4★ | Price: $24.99
Neon White, by Angel Matrix, is a fast-paced FPS and puzzle platformer with an anime art style and intense soundtrack. The game centers on Neons, sinners tasked with clearing demons from Heaven. The Neon with the highest score secures a permanent residence there.
10. GRIS
Genre: Puzzle, Adventure | Release Year: 2018 | Rating: 4.15★ | Price: $16.99
Developed by Nomada Studio, GRIS explores themes of grief and loss through minimalist gameplay and stunning art, paired with a serene soundtrack. It received the Best Games for Impact award at The Game Awards 2019.
FAQs
Indie games are games developed by small studios, or even solo developers, on a limited budget without the help of any large studios. Mostly 2D in nature, they feature unique art styles and are priced competitively when compared to AAA-tier games.
Indie games are built by gamers for gamers. Most indie studios and developers like to receive feedback during the development process so that they can release the best possible product. Also, indie games come in all themes and genres, so you don’t have to look too far. They are cheap too.
Hades is the best indie game on the Switch, although Disco Elysium is hard to ignore in terms of its narrative.
Reviewed by Huzaifa Haroon
