At The Game Awards, indie games consistently grab the spotlight, serving as a yearly testament to the creators who pour their hearts into their projects simply out of love for the craft. These gems shine not because of the industry’s vast monetary prospects, but because of pure passion—and it shows. This year, five remarkable indie creations are vying for the esteemed Best Independent Game title, each deserving and with a legitimate shot at victory, though only one can claim the trophy.
The Game Awards 2024 Best Independent Game Nominees
The contenders for this year are Balatro, Animal Well, Lorelei and the Laser Eyes, Neva, and UFO 50.
Balatro
In recent years, at least one indie game always captures the gaming world’s attention, and this time, it’s Balatro. Crafted by a solo developer, this roguelike deck-builder has been turning heads since February. Even now, it keeps expanding with no-cost updates like "Friends of Jimbo," integrating crossover cards from hit games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Stardew Valley. With nominations in five different categories, Balatro stands a solid chance of bagging the Best Independent Game award on December 12.
Described as a poker-inspired masterpiece, Balatro expertly marries strategic gameplay with compelling synergies.
Animal Well
Animal Well, a standout debut from Bigmode under the guidance of videogamedunkey, reinvents the Metroidvania genre. The game delves deep into exploration and puzzle-solving, offering layers for everyone from casual enjoyers to hardcore explorers. As players navigate its beautifully pixelated world, they encounter compelling challenges that ensure the title’s critical acclaim is well earned.
This game immerses players in a world of mystery and exploration, promising a journey filled with surprises.
Lorelei and the Laser Eyes
From the creative team at Simogo, known for Sayonara Wild Hearts, comes Lorelei and the Laser Eyes—a puzzle game featuring a memorable black-and-white aesthetic and over 150 intriguing puzzles. Set in a vast hotel with a somewhat surreal narrative, its unique design captures the interest of gamers fond of intricate mysteries.
A mysterious journey awaits players as they navigate a series of captivating and challenging puzzles.
Neva
Neva, by Nomada Studio, offers breathtaking visual storytelling paired with puzzle-platforming excellence. Players guide Alba and her compañero through a mesmerizing landscape constantly changing and evolving. Neva’s emotive storytelling and stunning aesthetic place it firmly in the limelight.
Through its narrative depth and emotional range, Neva crafts a truly unforgettable experience.
UFO 50
This nostalgic compilation from the brilliant minds behind Spelunky and other indie classics brings together 50 games, each a love letter to the 8-bit era. UFO 50 takes players through a fictional gaming timeline, offering varied gameplay across a range of genres, all meticulously designed to evoke the charm of the NES and SNES days.
UFO 50 marries retro aesthetics with modern design, creating a unique and diverse gaming treasure trove.
Final Prediction
Choosing a winner for this competitive category is no easy feat. Each nominee has carved out a distinct niche in the indie sphere, from UFO 50’s nostalgic anthology to Neva’s emotional journey. Animal Well enthralls with its innovative Metroidvania approach, while Lorelei and the Laser Eyes mesmerizes with its singular style. However, with its wide-reaching acclaim and lasting popularity, Balatro emerges as the frontrunner to claim Best Independent Game at The Game Awards 2024.
Stay tuned for further predictions as we build up to the highly anticipated ceremony.
