Hey gang,
Since my layoff I’ve been putting more effort into my personal development efforts. For inspiration (and uh because I like playing games), I’ve been spending some time on Gamejolt looking at other indie game authors’ work and I’ve found some real gems among the less awesome stuff. Not all of it is IF, which is why I’m using this thread, but I wanted to share some of the stuff that inspired and entertained me.
No One Has to Die
A bare-bones puzzle concept used repeatedly to tell a story. This game is a great ‘stone soup’ example of how narration can take an extremely rudimentary concept and make it significantly more gripping. (trigger warnings: death by fire/drowning, non-graphic)
FarSky
I am a huge sucker for any game that is set underwater. Seriously. That said, Tim Spekler’s FarSky has the makings of a really neat first-person survival game even without taking my preferences into account. No story to speak of, but the art and atmosphere are quite well done. The alpha is available to play for free, but I paid for the beta and it’s coming along really nicely.
Deep Sleep and its sequel, Deeper Sleep
A point-and-click adventure game with a nightmarish dream theme. This series is a lot less frustrating than many point-and-click games of its ilk, and it is pretty dang scary, so be warned. Its plot isn’t particularly deep, but it is told effectively and it has well-clued and well-written puzzles.
Murder at Masquerade Manor
Sorta like 3D clue, this randomly generated murder mystery has you asking guests at a masquerade party where they were when its host died, and whether they saw anything suspicious. Compare statements to uncover the truth, and eventually the murderer. But don’t turn your back on a suspect while alone, or you may be their next victim.
Don’t Escape
This clever, tiny game is literally the opposite of a room escape game. You are a werewolf. It’s the full moon. You need to ensure that you DON’T escape the cabin that you’re found when you turn into a slavering beastie. Use whatever tools and means you find. Once you think you’re ready, rest until nightfall and hope that you don’t make it to the nearby village.
Rust and Blood
A short survival RPG, very atmospheric. Story is a bit thin, and I highlight it more for the unique gathering and prep mechanics than anything else.
Enviro-Bear 2000
Look, I know you guys are sick to death of Bear Driving Simulators, but this one will really make you rethink the whole genre. Actually instead of playing it yourself, I’m gonna advise that you watch famed goofball youtuber Markiplier playing it.