The PlayStation 5 had a rocky release, thanks mainly to the messy pre-order status and the limited stock available upon release. However, many retailers are getting restocked now, and consumers are getting their hands on Sony’s latest console.
Along with actual inventory, indie games were surprisingly sparse when the PS5 launched. The game launched with only a handful of indie titles, so it wasn’t exactly robust. However, a little over two months later, some notable titles have been released. Sony still has a lot of room to grow, so come back to check this list frequently for the latest on the best PS5 indie games.
Further reading
- PS5 tips and tricks: How to get the most out of the new Sony console
- The best multiplayer games on the PS5
- The best indie games for 2021
The best PS5 indie games at a glance:
Haven
Haven is something of a unique game. It’s a cross between an RPG and a dating sim that follows two lovers as they try to survive on a hostile world. The game is split between developing the relationship between protagonists Yu and Kay, turn-based combat, and exploring the world they are stranded on. It’s interesting because the game’s core relationship is already established, and leveling up is partially based on how well you foster it.
Indie games are well-known for being inventive and structured around excellent writing, and Haven is a prime example of what the genre is capable of and what we can expect on the next generation of consoles.
Bugsnax
For younger players, a game like Bugsnax is a great casual game with a lot of charm and visual quirkiness. The game is a cross between Viva Piñata and Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs. It’s also a first-person adventure with a Pokémon Snap element. There isn’t a game quite like Bugsnax on the market, and that’s what makes it so unique.
It’s a challenging game by no means, but it’s a colorful and interesting game that’s great for kids and adults wanting a more laid-back adventure. The writing is also surprisingly sharp, so there is something in it for everyone.
If you’re looking for something off the wall and different, Bugsnax comes highly recommended.
The Pathless
Indie games usually have inventive gameplay mechanics, and that is the case with The Pathless. In this game, you play the Hunter as you explore a mysterious open-world and uncover the game island’s history and learn more about the corrupted spirits that inhabit it. With a unique gameplay mechanic that encourages quick movement, The Pathless is quick-paced without being difficult to play. It feels like a mix between Breath of the Wild and Shadow of the Colossus. Yet, the game always maintains its own sense of identity. The game is also gorgeous and backed by a great orchestral soundtrack.
If you’re all about solving puzzles and giant boss battles, The Pathless is the game for you.
No Man’s Sky
No Man’s Sky was arguably one of the most disappointing games of the last generation upon release. However, a few years later, and after several updates, No Man’s Sky is now the game it was hyped up to be. With revamped visuals, real multiplayer, and better customization and building features, No Man’s Sky is an endless game you will want to keep playing. The game is colorful, fun, and its worlds are meaningfully varied and fun to explore.
If you haven’t given it a chance yet or felt burned by the release, now is the perfect time to give No Man’s Sky a try. It’s finally the game it was meant to be.
Untitled Goose Game
Untitled Goose Game was one of the sleeper hits of 2020, and it is just as fun on the PS5. In this game, you play as a goose terrorizing a small English village as you steal items, destroy property, and generally raise a muck around town. It even has a dedicated honk button. The game is surprisingly peaceful, thanks to the minimalist art design and calm soundtrack.
With the latest update, you can even play with a friend. Two geese are better than one. If you haven’t played it yet, the game is worth picking up, especially if you have someone to play it with.
Worms Rumble
Worms Rumble is a surprising reinvention of a classic franchise. Worms games of old were turn-based 2D games where the player(s) would take turns moving and attacking their opponents. Worms Rumble, on the other hand, is a real-time action game. It still keeps the 2D perspective, but the environments are all rendered in 3D. Worms Rumble uses a lot of tropes from other multiplayer games and puts its own spin on it. The game is colorful, quirky, and offers players tons of customization for their worms. If you’re a fan of the Worms franchise, you won’t be disappointed by Worms Rumble. It may be a different play style, but it still has the same spirit of titles past.
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