There is a good chance that you have spent a significant amount of time playing AAA games, particularly those that are action and adventure games. You have probably observed a growing trend toward independent action games that pack a punch and, in some cases, even outshine the big-name titles.While some of you may be searching for something fresh and unique, this trend has already been apparent for a long time. Titles like Hollow Knight and Hades have shaken the gaming industry by showing that games made by indie creators can be as entertaining, narratively engaging and visually appealing as major titles, if not better.
In this blog, we are going to share some of the most popular independent action games that have come out in the last couple of years. These games are not only redefining the term action gameplay, but they are also creating memories that last a lifetime. But before we go further, I can see most of you have your controller or keyboard with you. So let’s begin this!
1. Hollow Knight, an eerily beautiful and enchanting Metroidvania
If you have not yet played spine-chilling indie-action game called Hollow Knight you must be missing a lot. Team Cherry’s Hollow Knight plunges you into a candy-edged world with dark tunnels, lurking enemies and buried secrets.
Navigating the ruined realm of Hallownest, one can see chest-thumping graphics enhanced by unease-inducing images and a soundtrack that has been created so as to fit the chill of the game perfectly. The combat system involves a lot of action, it is very engaging and rather precise. Let us also focus on the boss battles; they are not only challenging but diverse, hence will keep you busy.
Why it is worth playing:
You glide through gameplay and the jagged edges of the controls are none existent.
Engaging backstory and well developed plot that is piecemealed
Inhabitable territory that makes a lot of space for exploration.
Might be the most entertaining pastime for precision-based players who enjoy the thrill of scouting the unknown in every level of the game – Hollow knight.
2. Hades is a game that fuses Greek mythology with a roguelike action play.
One of the most played open source type of game in history would have to be the independently developed video game Hades by Supergiant Games. You will be taken to the underworld in this captivating roguelike adventure, where you takethe part of the rebellious brood of Hades’ upon whom the intrigues – Zagreus’ the character yearning to inherit freedom from the rule of his mighty father.
Since the game employs the principles of roguelike in a innovative manner, every single run is unique in its own way. As you advance along the levels in the course of the gameplay, you will have the right to obtain some more upgrades, new weapon types and various presents from the gods of Olympus. These will change your way of playing and will make you want more.
Features that are unique to this particular work:
Narratives that are never static and evolve in every subsequent playback
Engaging in with various battles whilst using different weapons and upgrade paths
Great voice acting, and characters you will still remember after leaving the game
If you’re a sucker for Greek mythology or just love an interesting challenging game, you will surely have a hard time leaving Hades.
3. Dead Cells a fast-paced well animated action roguelike game.
The videogame Dead Cells is not one of those games where one sits idly because she prefers the calm gameplay. It is designed for action, is straightforward and has quick controls. This is a hybrid action platforming game featuring a rich story and labyrinth exploration where one gets to brawl almost all the time. Fresh weapons, tricks, and enhancements can be obtained on the way, across levels that are encompassed in a novel non-remitting technique, that will ensure every single endeavor possesses a new feeling.
What makes it stand out:
The act of combat is enjoyable and skillful
Roguelike elements that tempt the player to complete the game several times
Great pixel graphics that create a dark and gritty atmosphere
An intense action game for the console aimed at players who love fighting and the thrill of mastering the game.
4. A Narrative So Perfectly Consumed Within the Mechanics that its Highly Accurate Platforming Becomes Engaging
Celeste is a game most associated with being platformer; however, there are also action elements that require quick reflexes and perfect timing of the player. The video game ‘Celeste’ has been developed by Maddy Makes Games, which tells a story of a girl called Madeline who, in the course of climbing a mysterious mountain, has to face various challenges herself.
Why it is Best in its Own Way:
So responsive are the controls that every jump and dash becomes an exhilarating engagement
An emotional story line that resonates with a good number of the players
Games which are hard to play but there are merits for playing such games even if they are severe
More than just a regular action platform, the experience of Celeste is one that brings together an incredibly touching story with fun-filled and interesting gameplay.
5. Katana Zero: One More Neo Noir Slasher, But With A Time Manipulation
This game Katana Zero is an assassin under possession of a katana who uses a time-controlled power. The game developed by Askiisoft is a neo-noir action game with an interesting story line that plays out in a range of dialogue options and underscores before being immersed in gameplay. The action is quite fast and fighting is on another level.
What makes it stand out:
An array of exquisitely drawn pixel graphics with nostalgic elements
Inclusion of dimension augmenting capabilities allowing manipulation of time during fights
A compelling narrative that is full of suspense from the first page to the last page
Katana ZERO will appeal to players who like action games that have style but are also less frivolous and more story-driven.
Image Name: Video Game Genres
6. Hyper Light Drifter: An Old School Game with a New World
Hyper Light Drifter, an action-adventure video game, has graphics similar to the 16-bit era but they have been modernized. Developed by Heart Machine, the game has fast-paced action, open-world exploration and weird yet stunning music. As the name suggests you are a Drifter and you navigate around destroyed world full of threat and advanced technology with many mysteries to uncover.
Unique Features:
16 bit graphics that are aesthetically very appealing
Combat mechanics that are easy to learn but difficult to master and very satisfying
The design promotes exploration within an open-ended space.
If you prefer artistic action RPG video games that captivate you with the graphics and the story line but also offer engaging play options, then Hyper Light Drifter is a hidden gem you ought to play.
7. Salt and Sanctuary
Ska Studios is responsible for the development of Salt and Sanctuary, which mixes the harsh difficulty of Dark Souls with the gameplay that is focused on exploration, similar to that of classic Metroidvania games. The fighting in this 2D action role-playing game is difficult, the setting is dark and gloomy, and there is a lot of room for exploring.
What makes it stand out:
Fans of extreme action will find the difficulties to be soul-crushing.
An exploration game in the vein of Metroidvania, with a large and interconnected universe
Stunningly gloomy visual style that works well with the game’s difficult gameplay structure
If you are seeking for an independent game that provides you with the same sense of accomplishment as defeating a boss in Dark Souls, then Salt and Sanctuary is an excellent choice that you should consider playing.
9. Axiom Verge text accomplishes publication of the original Metroidvania action games
If you are a fan of old style action games like me, Axiom Verge is something you should never miss. This title was produced by Tom Happ and features an exploration action based Metroidvania gameplay, solid storyline and lots of weapons and the skills to go with it for a unique experience every time.
What is appealing:
The gameplay takes you back in time but at the same gives you something fresh and captivating.
Numerous secrets and wonders await beyond this enormous world.
A playable environment where an extensive sci-fi plot unfolds in stages.
10. Blasphemous, a Dickish and Gory Metroidvania
Blasphemous – a hard-core action platformer with terrible graphics, a dark story, a strong emphasis on violence and elements of religion. Designed by The Game Kitchen, Blasphemous is a Metroidvania game that shows how the ceiling is pushed back for players who enjoy category games that come with difficulty to them.
What is appealing:
Brutality in combat and tough gameplay Engaging and Repulsive pixel level dolls created WAIKANOi.
Narrative that is chilling pulls one into the world it occupies
Final Thoughts
The fact that you don’t need a large budget to produce experiences that people will remember is demonstrated by these independent action games. The ferocious combat of Hades and the emotional depth of Celeste are just two examples of how independent games are altering the definition of what action and adventure games can be. Therefore, if you are prepared to experience some of the most cutting-edge games currently available, you should give these titles a shot. There’s a good chance that you’ll find your next favorite game within of them.