The gaming landscape of 2025 was securely dominated by indie games, with titles like Sandfall Interactive’s “Clair Obscur: Expedition 33” and “Hades 2” captivating audiences worldwide. These indie sensations outshone big-name releases, with others such as “Peak,” “Blue Prince,” and “The Seance of Blake Manor” claiming the spotlight. This indie dominance raises the question of whether 2026 will follow suit, promising potential Game of the Year contenders that may surprise everyone.
Anticipated Indie Releases
Though it’s uncertain if 2026 will be as indie-focused as 2025, a few promising titles are on the horizon. Among the most eagerly awaited is “Slay the Spire II,” poised to make a splash on PC in March 2026. Although delayed to a “secret Thursday” in March, the anticipation remains high for this sequel to one of the all-time favorite deck-building roguelikes. Its early access release could very well position it as a contender for Game of the Year 2026.
“Mina the Hollower,” from the creators of “Shovel Knight,” continues to build excitement despite setbacks pushing its release to 2026. The game promises an old-school “Legend of Zelda”-style adventure that fans can’t wait to dive into.
“The Eternal Life of Goldman,” a visually stunning platformer from Weappy Studio, might just be one of 2026’s surprise hits, given its captivating art reminiscent of “Cuphead.”
Upcoming Hits with Set Dates
The cyberpunk adventure “Replaced” by Sad Cat Studios is set for release on March 12, 2026, maintaining the allure it had when first revealed. Meanwhile, “MOUSE: P.I. For Hire,” featuring Troy Baker, offers a first-person shooter experience with private investigator Jack Pepper, arriving on March 19, 2026.
These indie games, alongside many others, are set to define the gaming scene in 2026, just as their predecessors did in 2025.
Honorable Mentions
While some titles didn’t make the main list, there are several honorable mentions that should not be overlooked. These games, though not highlighted, still promise to deliver engaging experiences in the coming year.
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