Indie games unlocked new levels in 2024, says K Narayanan

The gaming industry has had another rough year, with mass layoffs, risk-averse franchises trying to be everything to everyone, and larger production houses struggling to hold on to their margins in a world of rising budgets and inadequate sales. Expect excellent storytelling, a stunning experience, and a dog you can pet.. * Dungeons of Hinterberg Imagine a game that combines aspects of Monster Hunter and Stardew Valley, illustrated by Tintin’s Herge. And, there’s another pet dog.. * Tactical Breach Wizards This one’s set in a modern-day world, but with militarised magic. In this grid- and turn-based tactical game, the aim is to find interesting ways to throw one’s enemies out of a window.. Tactical Breach Wizards is part of the so-called Defenestration Trilogy. About half the games also offer local multiplayer modes, both competitive and cooperative, adding to the fun.. * Mouthwashing The premise of Mouthwashing is familiar: A massive spacecraft crashes in a remote corner of the galaxy, leaving its small crew stranded and slowly descending into madness as they wait for rescuers that will never come..