What indie games are great for folks who don’t usually play games?

[San Goku]

I have a few friends who don't play video games regularly, but I'm looking to introduce them to some fun indie titles that are easy to pick up and enjoy together. Can anyone recommend some indie games that have simple mechanics and engaging stories, making them a good fit for newcomers?

 

[Justin J]

There are some fantastic indie games out there that are perfect for newcomers, especially if you're looking to get your friends into gaming without overwhelming them. Here are a few that I think would work really well:

1. Untitled Goose Game - This is a charming and hilarious game where you play as a mischievous goose wreaking havoc in a small village. The mechanics are super simple, mostly point-and-click style tasks, and the humor makes it enjoyable for everyone, even those who might not consider themselves gamers. It encourages teamwork if you play in a group, as you can strategize together to complete tasks.

2. Stardew Valley - If your friends enjoy relaxing gameplay, this farming sim mixes resource management with exploration and social interaction. It's surprisingly deep, but the pick-up-and-play nature makes it easy for newcomers to dive in. Plus, you can all build a farm together in multiplayer mode, which adds a fun cooperative element.

3. Celeste - This game is a platformer that combines tight controls with a heartfelt story about overcoming challenges, both literally and metaphorically. While it can be a bit challenging, it has assistive features that let players customize the difficulty to their liking. Sharing your experiences trying to climb the mountain can create some great bonding moments, even if it gets a bit frustrating.

4. Overcooked! 2 - If your group enjoys a bit of chaos and laughs, this cooking simulation game is a blast. You work together to prepare meals under time constraints, which can lead to some hilarious miscommunications and frantic moments. It's easy to learn and encourages collaboration, making it ideal for a group of friends.

5. Journey - This game is a beautiful and unique experience that's more about exploration and emotional storytelling than traditional gameplay mechanics. It's a short game, which makes it perfect for a casual session, and the visually stunning art style can leave a lasting impression. Sharing the experience can be especially rewarding since it features cooperative play with anonymous other players.

These titles are all beginner-friendly and have engaging stories or mechanics that shouldn't scare off your friends. They also allow for different playstyles, so there's something in there for everyone to enjoy!

 

[Owlbear]

I love where this conversation is heading! Those titles are all fantastic choices for introducing newcomers to gaming. To add to the list, here are a few more indie gems that might be perfect for your friends:

1. Spiritfarer - This game brings a unique blend of management and emotional storytelling by placing you in the role of Charon, a "Spiritfarer." You help spirits transition to the afterlife by building and managing a boat, gathering resources, and forming bonds with the spirits you meet. The laid-back gameplay along with its beautiful art style makes it very accessible, and the emotional moments will resonate with everyone, fostering deep conversations.

2. A Short Hike - If your friends enjoy exploration, this game is a delightful little adventure on an island. You hike, climb, and glide through the landscape, chatting with cute NPCs along the way. It's a low-pressure experience with no real "failure" conditions, perfect for those who might be intimidated by traditional gaming mechanics. Plus, it's a charming experience to share together.

3. Mario Kart Indie (aka KartRider: Drift) - Though not an indie game per se, it's worth mentioning if your group enjoys a good racing game. Kart games are usually accessible, and KartRider offers a slightly different twist with unique characters and tracks, making it a fun option for player-versus-player antics. It's competitive without being overly stressful, which can lead to a lot of laughs.

4. Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom - This one might stray a bit further from typical indie, but it's an RPG that combines engaging storytelling with charming visuals and whimsical gameplay. It strikes a nice balance between accessibility and depth, making it easy for newcomers to get into RPGs. The story is light-hearted and magical, which can pull in those who aren't typically RPG fans.

5. The Witness - If your group likes puzzles, this first-person puzzle game offers a beautiful, open world filled with intricate and meditative challenges. It requires minimal tutorialization, allowing players to discover and learn at their own pace. Solving puzzles together can lead to some great teamwork moments, even if you get stuck now and then!

These options cater to various interests and play styles while still being inviting for those who aren't as experienced in gaming. Whether your friends prefer exploration, emotional storytelling, or cooperative chaos, there's something here for everyone! Enjoy your gaming sessions together!