Although it’s true that AAA multiplayer titles attract millions of gamers, smaller studios, and even individual developers have proven the misconception that only big studios can create “bigger” and “better” games to be incorrect.
Sometimes those hidden ideas make the game unique and more enjoyable even when the game is smaller. Hence, indie games can be super good especially when they support the multiplayer option.
In the ever-expanding sphere of video games, there are certain multiplayer indie games that have established their name and respect in the community to the extent that they enjoy the same level of popularity as any other AAA title.
In this post, we bring you the top 9 best multiplayer Indie games you must try this year.
Fall Guys
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like if jellybeans decided to host their own chaotic game show, look no further than Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout. This multiplayer mayhem takes the battle royale concept and adds a generous dollop of whimsy.
You and 59 other contestants, each resembling a wobbly, adorable bean, scramble, stumble, and flop your way through a series of zany challenges in a bid to be the last jelly bean standing. Whether you’re navigating treacherous obstacle courses or teaming up with fellow beans to tackle team-based minigames, Fall Guys is a non-stop carnival of colorful chaos.
Overcooked 2
You and your fellow chefs are tasked with preparing increasingly complex dishes while dealing with outlandish obstacles. Imagine trying to chop lettuce on a pirate ship that’s constantly shifting, or grilling burgers in the middle of a busy road. The game’s slapstick humor and frantic pace make it perfect for multiplayer mayhem.
Communication is key, and you’ll often find yourself yelling absurd orders at your friends like, “Pass me the tomatoes, quick! We’re about to sink!” If you’re looking for a game that’s part culinary challenge, part comedy show, Overcooked 2 serves up a delicious dish of cooperative chaos.
Cuphead
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to step inside a 1930s cartoon and battle a quirky cast of eccentric bosses, Cuphead is your ticket to that wacky world. This visually stunning indie game is a delightful co-op experience. You and a friend can join forces as Cuphead and Mugman to take on a series of challenging, often surreal boss battles.
With a healthy dash of humor and a side of old-school platforming, Cuphead manages to be both fiendishly difficult and irresistibly charming. It’s like playing a classic animated short, where every frame is a work of art and every boss encounter is a test of your reflexes and teamwork. Don’t be fooled by its adorable appearance – Cuphead is a devilishly good time.
Phasmophobia
Looking for a game that combines your love for paranormal investigations with your desire to terrify your friends? Phasmophobia has you covered. This cooperative ghost-hunting game throws you and your pals into the sinister world of supernatural discovery. Armed with ghost-hunting equipment and nerves of steel (hopefully), you’ll investigate haunted locations, trying to identify and interact with various types of ghosts.
The beauty of Phasmophobia is that it’s genuinely terrifying, and it’s even more so when you’re huddled around your computer screen, screaming in unison as the lights flicker and a ghostly figure appears. Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or a skeptic, Phasmophobia will give you goosebumps and plenty of unforgettable moments with your ghost-hunting squad.
Rust
This multiplayer survival game throws you into a world where you’ll need to gather resources, build shelter, and fend off not only the elements but also other players who are just as eager to survive. Rust is like the Wild West of survival games, where alliances are made and broken, and trust is a rare commodity.
The thrill of sneaking up on an enemy’s base or forming a makeshift clan with friends is what makes Rust a gripping multiplayer experience. Just be prepared for some epic battles, ingenious base designs, and a sense of accomplishment when you manage to thrive in this ruthless world.
Terraria
Think of Terraria as a 2D adventure-packed sibling to Minecraft. This sandbox game opens the door to a pixelated world brimming with exploration, action, and limitless creativity. In Terraria, you’ll delve into the earth, construct impressive structures, and battle fierce foes, including colossal bosses. The game’s charm lies in the freedom it offers.
Whether you’re devising intricate fortresses, spelunking into cavernous depths, or summoning gigantic monsters, the possibilities are endless. What’s more, the game beckons you and your friends to join forces in multiplayer mode, where you can work together to face daunting challenges, uncover hidden realms, and craft your own legendary tales.
Deep Rock Galactic
If you’re yearning for a multiplayer experience that combines the thrill of spelunking with cooperative chaos, Deep Rock Galactic has your back. In this game, you and your friends step into the boots of dwarven miners, bound for the most treacherous, procedurally generated caves the galaxy has to offer.
Armed with flamethrowers, pickaxes, and an insatiable desire for shiny minerals, you’ll tackle missions, face swarms of alien bugs, and drill your way to riches. The camaraderie among teammates is palpable as you scramble to complete objectives and make a daring escape.
Satisfactory
In this multiplayer sandbox game, you’ll explore a lush alien world, harness its resources, and construct mind-bogglingly intricate automated factories. Together with your fellow engineers, you’ll automate processes, construct towering conveyor belts, and develop sprawling industrial complexes that hum with activity. The sense of progression is addictive, and you’ll find yourself striving to optimize production lines, overcome logistical challenges, and unlock new technologies.
As you collaborate with your friends to build the most efficient megafactory, you’ll experience the joys of cooperative problem-solving, endless construction, and the satisfaction of seeing your automation dreams come to life.
Rocket League
If soccer and rocket-powered cars had a lovechild, it would be Rocket League. This indie game has taken the world by storm with its unique blend of fast-paced action and sportsmanship. While the premise is straightforward, the gameplay is anything but. As you execute aerial acrobatics and pull off gravity-defying saves, you’ll be grinning from ear to ear.
Rocket League is an addictive cocktail of competition, coordination, and sheer fun. The best part? You can team up with friends or engage in epic rivalries, all with a soccer ball and rocket-fueled vehicles. It’s pure multiplayer mayhem that’s accessible, exhilarating, and perfect for kicking back with pals.
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley offers a serene escape into the world of farming, friendship, and community. It’s quite surprising to see that this hugely popular indie game was developed by a single person namely Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone. In this multiplayer indie gem, you and your friends inherit a run-down farm and must breathe new life into it.
You’ll till the soil, plant crops, raise livestock, and explore the charming village of Pelican Town. Together, you can divide tasks, embark on adventures in the mines, and even participate in local festivals. The game’s endearing pixel art style, heartwarming characters, and soothing soundtrack make it a cozy and delightful multiplayer experience.
Risk of Rain 2
Risk of Rain 2 is the kind of multiplayer game that cranks the chaos dial to eleven and never looks back. This roguelike third-person shooter throws you and your buddies onto an alien planet filled with relentless hordes of otherworldly creatures.
Your objective? Survive, find loot, and obliterate bosses in a race against time. The game is known for its heart-pounding action, procedurally generated levels, and ever-increasing difficulty level. As you battle alien monstrosities, unlock characters, and gather power-ups, the screen erupts into a symphony of destruction.
Conclusion
These indie multiplayer gems, often born from unique ideas and a deep love for the craft, offer something distinct and delightful to the gaming world. Whether you’re exploring treacherous caves with fellow miners, crafting complicated automated factories, or soaring through the air in rocket-powered cars, indie multiplayer games can deliver moments of pure joy and fellowship.
