With major sports gaming companies such as EA, 2K, and now even Epic Games dominating the market, discovering indie sports games that can match or surpass the big AAA titles can be a challenge. Despite this, with the recent repetitive releases of FIFA, Madden, and NBA 2K, it might be time to explore indie games for something fresh.
It's important to keep in mind that indie sports games operate on significantly lower budgets, so expectations for graphics and features should be adjusted accordingly. However, this doesn't compromise the overall gaming experience.
7 Descenders
Metascore: 75
Downhill mountain biking might not be the most popular sport, but in gaming, it can be extremely thrilling. Descenders stands out as one of the best mountain biking sims with its high-octane, intense gameplay and captivating soundtrack.
It adopts a roguelike game style, featuring challenging tracks and boss jumps that push players' reactions to the limit. The character movements, sound effects, and overall pace immerse players in this mountain biking experience.
6 Legend Bowl
Metascore: 69
Unlike other indie American Football games, Legend Bowl opts for a pixel art style that resonates with gamers, offering modern game modes and graphical quality while maintaining a retro vibe.
With a franchise mode, deep database of players, and customizable team names and stadiums, Legend Bowl balances its pixel art with a crisp, modern feel.
5 OlliOlli World
Metascore: 84
Since the days of Skate and Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, skateboarding games have struggled to impress. OlliOlli World offers an arcade-like gameplay style, simple, unique, and incredibly enjoyable.
Its sequel introduces new graphics, a multiplayer open-world setup, and the same unique gameplay that has made OlliOlli a standout. The cartoon-like feel, variety of cool tricks, and numerous maps make OlliOlli World a fantastic indie sports game.
4 Fishing Planet
Metascore: TBD
Relaxing with a fishing game like Fishing Planet offers multiplayer functionality for virtual fishing trips with friends. It features an in-depth inventory for customizing fishing rods and a variety of missions to enhance the experience.
With a simple premise and technical fishing gameplay, Fishing Planet caters to both fishing enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport.
3 Super Mega Baseball 3
Metascore: 83
Arcade-like sports games that prioritize fun are always enjoyable. Super Mega Baseball 3 falls into this category, offering an art style and gameplay that makes baseball less technical and more about the fun aspects of the sport.
It includes season and ranked modes, a variety of pitch-styles, and a large player database, balancing fun with genuine baseball gameplay.
2 Golf With Your Friends
Metascore: 68
Despite its modest Metascore, Golf With Your Friends is incredibly popular, with many streamers and YouTubers enjoying its party-style gameplay and large lobbies. The game's various maps and ball customization add humor and versatility to the experience.
It offers classic party-style gameplay, making it perfect for playing with a large group of people.
1 Rocket League
Metascore: 85
One of the most popular indie games of all time, Rocket League has established itself as a legendary game with its unique car and soccer crossover format. Despite involvement from Epic Games, the core game remains indie.
Psyonix's creation has evolved into an eSports game, offering exciting gameplay and a customizable system that allows players to score goals in their dream cars.