It looks like it’ll be a banner year for big game releases, but there are plenty of incredible-looking indies to get excited about this year, too. Here’s a roundup of some beautiful, story-driven indie games coming out in 2023.
In order of expected release:
Season: A Letter to the Future
Season: A Letter to the Future comes out on January 31 (tomorrow!) for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Windows PC! I’ve been admiring this game’s absolutely gorgeous artwork since it was announced. Early reviews spotlight Season as a thoughtful eco-conscious story that will almost assuredly devastate me.
Blanc
Launching on Valentine’s Day, Blanc features beautiful hand-drawn art of a wolf cub and a fawn who wander through snow-covered woods. The game requires co-op which could make it a perfect date-night video game. Blanc will be out for Nintendo Switch and Windows PC.
Venba
I love any video game that takes on food. Add in a heartfelt story about immigration and family? Sign me up. Cooking in Venba reminds me of what it’s like in Remy’s mind when he tastes cheese (same). Venba is slated for a spring 2023 release for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows PC.
Lakeburg Legacies
This village management sim turns players into the town matchmaker. Lakeburg Legacies features charming pastel artwork to communicate a cozy medieval energy. Lakeburg Legacies is expected in Q2 for Windows PC.
Thirsty Suitors
Thirsty Suitors looks like a combination of Boyfriend Dungeon and Wild Hearts, and I’m here for it. This stylish adventure game comes out in July 2023 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Windows PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
Sea of Stars
For turn-based JRPG lovers, don’t forget to add Sea of Stars to your list. The colorful 16-bit style invites curiosity for a classic adventure. Sea of Stars will release in “mid-2023” for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Windows PC, and macOS.
A Highland Song
I stan developer Inkle, the makers of 80 Days!, Sorcery!, and Overboard! Every Inkle game features a unique blend of artistry, gameplay, and storytelling. A Highland Song will be another enticing interactive novel, even if it doesn’t have an exclamation mark in the title. The game is set to release for Nintendo Switch and Windows PC sometime in 2023.
Coffee Talk: Episode 2
The original Coffee Talk got me through some dark weeks of the early pandemic. Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly looks just as sweet. Pour lattes and brew teas for customers, helping them on their journeys like the barista of your dreams.
Cocoon
From the lead designer of INSIDE and Limbo (but hopefully way less creepy than either of those), Cocoon will feature intricately designed puzzles in an alien setting. It’s being published by indie powerhouse Annapurna Interactive, and is scheduled to release in 2023 for Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and Windows PC.
What are you looking forward to in 2023? Any indie games I should check out? Let me know in the comments!
