What a magical time Steam Next Fest is, when studios of all sizes get to showcase their years of work across a whole week to thousands of potential new fans. I can hardly keep track of the number of success stories that have resulted from this much-anticipated event, and who knows, we might be looking at one of the biggest future success stories right now.
Keeping to that theme, let's take a look at the 10 most anticipated indie games from Steam Next Fest that you can try right now.
Top 10 indie games from Steam Next Fest
1. Once Human
Once Human is a base-building survival game much like popular titles such as RUST and DayZ. As the most-wishlisted Next Fest game so far, it's safe to say there's some hype building here. Instead of just zombies or other players, you get to battle some pretty impressive enemies here too.
That said, there are some concerns about how the server wipes will work. Users on Reddit have voiced concerns over the game's replayability, while others think it's neat that you'll get to keep some stuff (unlike total wipes of the likes RUST uses).
We'll just have to wait and see how Starry Studios handles this.
The game is set to release on July 9, 2024.
2. Tiny Glade
Tiny Glade is a casual sandbox-building game that's super easy to pick up. If you're looking to get away from enemies hunting you down and death around every corner, you might like Tiny Glade.
As far as the demo goes, there is no goal; simply build and pet some sheep (if you want). The building tool feels very slick and satisfying to use. There are currently no doors, which is why I built a window as a door in the screenshot, just in case you were wondering.
I built that little scene in about seven clicks too, so it's really easy to get in and get going. Give it a try!
The full game is set to release somewhere in Q3 of 2024.
3. The Alters
The Alters is a sci-fi game with survival, exploration, and base-building mechanics, but it's far from standard in the current market. There's no multiplayer at the moment, but there is a hint of a potentially deep and immersive storyline.
If you're into sci-fi adventure games, this could be right up your alley. The planned release date is somewhere in the remainder of 2024.
4. ASKA
ASKA is a Viking-themed colony-survival game with strong Valheim vibes. You get to claim land and manage your village as one of the tribe from a third-person perspective. Starting out as a lone Viking, you'll slowly gather villagers and assign jobs to them.
It's a bit of a grindy game but offers hours of fun with online co-op with up to three of your friends. It promises something for the single-player adventurer as well with "intelligent" NPC characters providing some companionship on your playthrough.
The game is set for an imminent release on Jun 20, 2024. If you like Valheim, definitely check this one out.
5. Level Zero: Extraction
If you're anything like me, this game will get your heart thumping. I'm not big on horror games, but I still enjoyed my time with Level Zero: Extraction, even when my flashlight ran out and I was plunged into absolute darkness.
It's a Tarkov-style extraction shooter game where you're up against fellow Mercs, Aliens, and NPC enemies all at once. As a new player with no idea of where anything is, I haven't managed to successfully extract yet - but I remain hopeful.
There are a few minor issues like cheaters and players just going AFK mid-game, but it's only a demo. The game is set to launch in the latter half of 2024, and this does give the devs some time to iron out these early issues.
The game peaked at just over 4800 players, so it shouldn't be too hard to find a game. Only took me a few seconds on the EU servers.
Hot Tip: Don't try to fight the things seen in the screenshot with your bare hands. You will lose.
6. Wizard of Legend 2
Wizard of Legend 2 is a fast-paced roguelike that you can enjoy with up to three of your friends. The first game showcases over 16,000 reviews and sits comfortably at Very Positive. So we're in good hands here.
It's not just a graphical overhaul either, with many mechanics working differently in Wol2. The trusty old stun lock-until-they-die strategy seems ineffective, and dodge becomes way more necessary when facing off against bosses.
Things may yet change, however, and this is the beauty of being able to gather feedback during Next Fest. Let's just hope, for the sake of the fans of the original, that Contingent99 is listening.
7. REKA
REKA is a... witch simulator, I guess? Okay, officially it's an exploration game featuring base building and even RPG elements as you uncover mysteries of a legendary witch in the course of exploring (did I mention you're her apprentice?). You'll need to gather resources and ingredients for the crafting system, and (of course) build the most impressive witch hut that you can.
The planned release date is currently set for August 2024.
8. Metal Slug Tactics
This one gave me a reason to pause - I'm not entirely sure it counts as indie. I've included it though, because Metal Slug Tactics sure feels indie. In case the title didn't give it away, refers to the same one from your childhood, all the way back in 1996 (wait, is my age showing?).
In this latest revival, you can duke it out with the Rebel Army in a tactical-rpg system reminiscent of the beloved Final Fantasy Tactics games. It also has roguelike elements and delivers a huge nostalgia boost if you're a fan of the original games. I sure sank many hours into Metal Slug 2.
The full release will appear somewhere in Q4 of 2024.
9. Endzone 2
Endzone 2 follows in the footsteps of its predecessor which has gained over 7,000 mostly positive reviews on Steam. Initially, this second entry seems to have carried over the charm found in the original.
Your goal in this city-builder is to survive, quite simply. A few new additions are zoning, which is a vaguely similar concept to the Sim City games of old, and being able to micromanage survivors in an RTS fashion, sending them on loot runs and such.
It has been called a rival to Frostpunk 2, so if you're a fan of this type of game, be sure to check out the demo.
10. Mirthwood
The final entry to this list, Mirthwood, is a delightfully charming RPG that's kind of hard to describe. If you can picture a mix between Stardew Valley and Don't Starve, that'd be pretty close to Mirthwood.
Actions in-game change how NPCs respond to you, you can build buildings, hunt for food, fight bandits, and do a little farming on the side. It looks to me like one of those games that seems shallow at first glance, but somehow pulls you in and keeps you there for more hours than you'd like to admit.
It's safe to say that if you liked Stardew Valley or Coral Island or any of those types of games, you'll likely enjoy this entry — go check out the demo!
In the mood for another list? Check out these Top 10 delisted games that you may have forgotten about.
