Top 6 Must-Play Indie Games from Steam Next Fest
▼ Summary
– Steam’s Next Fest is a major showcase for upcoming indie games, featuring free demos, livestreams, and developer interviews.
– The latest Next Fest runs until June 16 and includes 25 indie.io titles, the platform’s largest lineup yet, spanning various genres.
– Six standout games with playable demos include *Shrine’s Legacy*, an SNES-style action RPG, and *Troublemaker 2*, an open-world beat-em-up sequel.
– Other highlighted games are *Don’t Die, Collect Loot* (a loot-focused roguelite), *Mythrealm* (a fantasy RPG), and *Aris Arcanum* (a spellcrafting roguelite).
– *Heroes of Mount Dragon* is a co-op brawler with dragon transformations, developed by industry veterans from Activision and Ubisoft.
Steam Next Fest continues to shine as the premier event for discovering innovative indie games before they hit the market. This digital showcase offers free demos, developer insights, and a firsthand look at creative projects from studios around the world. The latest edition features an impressive lineup from indie.io, with 25 diverse titles spanning genres like RPGs, roguelites, and cooperative adventures. While every game deserves attention, these six standouts demonstrate the festival’s breadth and creativity.
Shrine’s Legacy delivers a nostalgic trip to the 16-bit era with its action-packed RPG gameplay. Players embark on a quest to restore the legendary Sword of the Shrine, battling through dungeons and uncovering a story filled with humor and heart. The demo includes couch co-op, letting friends team up as dual protagonists, a rare treat in modern indie releases.
For those craving chaotic fun, Troublemaker 2 blends open-world exploration with over-the-top brawling. Set in the vibrant streets of South Jayakarta, the game encourages players to brawl, complete odd jobs, or even transform into a cow during absurd minigames. Its irreverent tone and sandbox freedom make it a refreshing break from traditional beat-em-ups.
Fans of loot-driven progression will adore Don’t Die, Collect Loot, a roguelite that turns grinding into pure satisfaction. With three distinct classes and an endless survival mode, the game rewards strategic builds and quick reflexes. The Next Fest demo even includes an exclusive boss fight, offering rare loot for early players.
Mythrealm stands out with its immersive fantasy world and flexible character progression. As Alaris, players choose between warrior, archer, or mage paths while navigating treacherous terrain. The demo’s hidden warhammer tease hints at deeper exploration, perfect for those who love uncovering secrets.
Magic takes center stage in Aris Arcanum, a roguelite where spellcrafting defines every run. Players experiment with arcane combinations to overcome corrupted scholars and cosmic horrors. The demo’s side quest and boss encounter provide just enough intrigue to leave players wanting more.
Rounding out the list is Heroes of Mount Dragon, a dynamic brawler where heroes morph into dragons mid-battle. With eight playable characters and chaotic multiplayer modes, the game promises endless replayability. The demo showcases four heroes and half of the first kingdom, teasing the full-scale adventure ahead.
Each of these titles highlights the innovation and passion driving indie development today. Whether you prefer strategic depth, cooperative chaos, or pure absurdity, Steam Next Fest has something unforgettable waiting to be played.
(Source: IGN)
