Over the years, PlayStation has established itself as a hub for both big-budget blockbusters and indie gems. While most players flock to the latest God of War or Horizon Zero Dawn, PlayStation has also been home to some of the most creative, artistic, and innovative indie games in the industry. These smaller titles often fly under the radar but deliver unforgettable experiences, whether through emotional storytelling, unique gameplay mechanics, or artistic visuals. Here are some of PlayStation’s best indie games that every gamer should check out.
One of the standout indie games on PlayStation is Journey (2012). Developed by Thatgamecompany, Journey is a breathtaking experience that combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and emotional storytelling. Players take control of a robed traveler who journeys across mage77 vast desert landscapes toward a distant mountain. The game’s minimalist design, beautiful music, and emotional depth make it one of the most memorable gaming experiences of the last decade. Journey is a perfect example of how indie games can push the boundaries of what video games can achieve.
Another highly praised indie title is Hollow Knight (2017), a dark and atmospheric Metroidvania that has captivated players with its challenging gameplay and haunting world. Set in the decaying ruins of Hallownest, players take on the role of the titular Hollow Knight as they explore interconnected areas, battle challenging enemies, and uncover the secrets of a forgotten kingdom. Hollow Knight stands out not only for its tight combat and deep lore but also for its beautiful hand-drawn art style and atmospheric soundtrack.
Celeste (2018) is another indie gem that deserves a spot on this list. This precision platformer tells the story of Madeline, a young woman who sets out to climb the treacherous Celeste Mountain while dealing with her inner struggles. The game’s challenging yet fair platforming mechanics, combined with its touching story about mental health and self-discovery, make it one of the most emotionally resonant games in recent memory. Celeste is a must-play for anyone who loves a tough challenge paired with an uplifting narrative.
Limbo (2010) and Inside (2016), both developed by Playdead, are a pair of atmospheric platformers that stand out for their eerie, minimalist presentation and deeply immersive worlds. In Limbo, players control a young boy navigating a monochrome, nightmarish world filled with deadly traps and hostile creatures. Inside follows a similarly mysterious narrative, but with a more refined sense of danger and urgency. Both games use environmental storytelling to draw players in, and they leave a lasting impression long after the credits roll.
Gris (2018) is a visually stunning platformer that tackles themes of grief, loss, and recovery. The game’s hand-painted art style and moving score create an emotional journey that goes beyond traditional platforming mechanics. As Gris moves through her world, she gains new abilities that reflect her emotional growth, with each section of the game symbolizing a different phase of grief. It’s an indie game that not only offers beautiful gameplay but also a poignant narrative that resonates with players.
Lastly, Return of the Obra Dinn (2018) by Lucas Pope is an unconventional mystery game that uses a unique art style and investigative gameplay to tell its story. Set aboard the abandoned ship Obra Dinn, players must deduce the fates of the crew by examining the circumstances of their deaths and piecing together the puzzle using minimal information. The game’s black-and-white visual style, combined with its deeply immersive mystery, makes Return of the Obra Dinn one of the most distinctive indie games available on PlayStation.
These indie games showcase the incredible diversity and creativity that the medium has to offer. While PlayStation is known for its blockbuster titles, it’s the indie games that often push the boundaries of what games can achieve in terms of storytelling, emotion, and gameplay. These hidden gems are worth every minute of your time.