The 6 Greatest PC-Exclusive Indie Games, Ranked

Discover the best indie titles that are exclusively available for PC players.
The 6 Greatest PC-Exclusive Indie Games, Ranked

Highlights

  • PCs are famous for their outstanding graphics, providing some of the most exceptional visual experiences in gaming.
  • The indie game market on PC is substantial and offers a broad range of genres for gamers to explore.
  • Unique and challenging gameplay experiences are offered by indie games like Castle in the Darkness and Pizza Tower.

PCs have been a significant part of gaming since the early 80s. Over the years, gaming and computers have progressed impressively, with some games achieving graphics that closely resemble real-life images.

However, gaming PCs are not just known for big, beautiful AAA games. They also boast a thriving indie market, providing a platform that is more accessible for independent studios to develop games. Here are some remarkable indie games that deserve gamers' attention:

6 Castle In The Darkness

Metacritic Score: 76

Indie games span a wide range of genres, including the highly acclaimed Metroidvania style, exemplified in titles like Castle in the Darkness. This game revolves around an evil sorcerer who has attacked the kingdom of Alexandria, prompting a lone knight to embark on a quest to combat the forces of darkness.

The platforming and combat in this game are reminiscent of early Castlevania and Metroid games, offering a unique fantasy setting. While it may not cater to everyone's gaming preferences, fans of Metroidvania will find plenty to enjoy in this challenging indie platformer.

5 The Cat Lady

Metacritic Score: 81

Hailed as one of their best games, Harvester Games presents The Cat Lady, a chilling tale following Susan Ashworth, a chronically lonely and depressed middle-aged woman who is given a second chance at life by the enigmatic Queen of Maggots. In return, Susan must hunt down and eliminate five individuals referred to as parasites by the Queen.

This horror game delves deeply into themes of depression, grief, loss, and alcoholism, offering a grueling experience that doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of human nature.

4 Pathologic

Metacritic Score: N/A

Prior to the widely celebrated Pathologic 2, there was its often-overlooked predecessor Pathologic, on which the sequel is based. Both games are set in a town ravaged by a mysterious plague, challenging players to survive as one of three characters.

This intense first-person horror game presents formidable challenges as players strive to endure the trials of their peculiar, small town, incorporating elements of survival games, such as managing a hunger meter. It offers an unparalleled horror gaming experience, rewarding players with a richly immersive journey.

3 The Binding Of Isaac

Metacritic Score: 84

This classic bullet-hell roguelike gained popularity in the gaming community and spawned a much-loved remake, The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth, which was released on multiple platforms unlike the original, which remains exclusive to PC players.

Players navigate Isaac through the basement of his house, where he encounters monsters and challenging bosses. The game requires players to dodge projectiles and utilize weapons to combat the creatures - a single mistake sends them back to the beginning.

2 Pizza Tower

Metacritic Score: 89

Appealing to fans of Wario Land and Overcooked, Pizza Tower combines chaotic platforming gameplay with exploration and attack combos, delivering a zany and comedic experience.

With its unique early 90s Saturday-morning-cartoon-like graphics and lively soundtrack, this game provides hours of fun, allowing players to seamlessly jump in and out of the gameplay.

1 Slay The Princess

Metacritic Score: 90

From the developers behind the episodic game Scarlet Hollow comes Slay the Princess, an indie horror game that offers a unique, surreal take on the genre. Players are tasked with slaying the Princess, who is held captive in the basement of a cabin, or face the dire consequences.

Featuring exquisite hand-drawn art, compelling writing, and multiple endings, Slay the Princess presents a profound narrative, challenging players to ponder their decisions and explore the various potential outcomes.