November Indie Picks (Plus Exciting Announcements!)

As the festive season approaches, the team at ID@Xbox is ecstatic to unveil our latest Indie Selects. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to every player who has embraced independent games on Xbox over the past year. Indie Selects serves as a spotlight for games that are bold and different. Not every gamer is captivated by blockbuster titles; some find joy in well-crafted stories, novel takes on established concepts, or games that are simply out-of-the-ordinary. We appreciate you exploring our curated selections and supporting the talented developers showcased on our platform.

Moreover, we’ve revamped our usual routine. Instead of a brief December collection, we’ve prepared three weeks of Indie Select Highlights for 2024. Starting December 11, every Wednesday will showcase and promote a set of 18 standout titles from the past year. Don’t miss out on these gems—head over to the Indie Selects section on the Xbox Store, easily found by navigating a few rows down on the Games Home tab.

In a few months, we will commemorate the program’s anniversary with a special 2024 Anniversary Collection on January 28, 2025. We’ll be selecting six exceptional Indie Selects from the past year, spotlighting them in an honorary collection for all to explore. There are more surprises, sales, and collections in store for 2025, but for now, let’s focus on this season’s offerings.

This month is packed! The variety of games available this time around is truly astonishing, with titles pushing the boundaries in unique designs, cryptic mechanics, compelling narratives, and pure fun. Our team had animated debates on what to spotlight. Some sought a spine-tingling thrill reminiscent of October’s spooky vibes, while others dreamed of grand adventures, perhaps alongside a massive wolf. Many of us wanted to get lost in narratives or creativity-driven projects. Ultimately, we’ve curated a selection sure to delight every type of gamer out there. Here’s a peek at this month’s lineup:

Need an emotional ride? Let me introduce you to Neva. I spent the weekend diving into its world and was captivated by its stunning art and haunting soundtrack, leaving me in awe and occasionally in tears. It’s an emotionally powerful journey with engaging gameplay. Following in the footsteps of the beloved Gris, Nomada Studio delivers another masterpiece, enhancing their signature style with simple but satisfying platforming and combat. Though brief, at around five hours, Neva promises a reflective and heartwarming experience. If combat becomes challenging, you can switch to a Story Mode for a distraction-free journey.

Next up is Animal Well, a mesmerizing 2D pixel art Metroidvania teeming with complex puzzles and a haunting atmosphere. Players embody a small blob navigating through a moist and dark world filled with enigmatic mysteries. It’s all about using acquired tools wisely and understanding the purpose of the world’s intriguing inhabitants. Avoiding more aggressive creatures becomes its own delightful puzzle. Even after the story concludes, there’s a wealth of secrets to uncover, making each discovery feel immensely rewarding. It’s a game where curiosity is consistently rewarded, perfectly suited for those who enjoy a challenge without spoilers.

For those with a penchant for creativity and management, Planet Coaster 2 is a delightful playground of possibilities. From its brilliant visuals to its intuitive park management tools, it satisfies both the strategist and artist within. Whether crafting the wildest rollercoasters or ensuring guest satisfaction, your task is to run the ultimate theme park. The ability to share designs with a community and incorporate others’ inventive ideas takes the experience to new heights, making it a must-try for veterans and newcomers alike.

If you’re yearning for a spooky getaway, Phasmophobia is an intense ghost-hunting experience that challenges players to identify spectral entities using various tools. The game brilliantly uses traditional horror cues like sound and lighting to keep you on edge, creating an atmospheric adventure that’s both terrifying and enjoyable. Team up with friends for an unforgettable gaming session, where every scream and whispered strategy amplifies the shared excitement of ghost hunting.

Then there’s Fear the Spotlight, a ’90s-inspired horror game that blends puzzle-solving with a juicy narrative and avoids combat for stealth. As Vivian, players are drawn into a suspenseful mystery in a seemingly abandoned school, stalked by a sinister figure. Every step is suspense-filled, every corner a potential revelation or threat. With its nostalgic touch and gripping story, it’s a delightful nod to classic horror that newcomers and old fans will enjoy.

Lastly, Slay the Princess is a provocative visual novel with a twist. Presented as a quest to confront a world-threatening princess, it’s all about the journey and the moral choices you’ll face. Rich with emotional depth, it challenges players to navigate conversations, explore uncharted paths, and face the consequences of their actions. The hand-drawn art and voice acting enhance the immersive experience, making death a mere setback in this intricate story web.

These captivating picks are sure to stir emotions and provoke thoughts, as each game offers its own unique flavor. As we continue into the new year, keep an eye out for more indie collaborations, all born from a deep passion for the art of gaming.