delve into Gamescom's depths and uncover genuine gaming treasures
Gamescom is the largest gaming event worldwide, where developers present their top releases. Behind these hits are teams of people and substantial investments. However, Gamescom also showcases lesser-known games with small budgets but immense creativity. The fair covers a massive area of 1,500 square meters and features more than 170 games from 37 countries, offering a diverse range of genres. ntv.de shares why visiting the Indie Zone is worthwhile.
Thirty Birds
Thirty Birds is a narrative puzzle game set on rotating lanterns. It sounds tough, right? The trailer introduces Zig, the protagonist, exploring an expansive world inspired by Persian art, with each edge leading to a new lantern region. Your goal is to help Zig save the missing bird goddess, Simurgh. Experiment with the game at Gamescom and add it to your Steam wishlist for 2025.
Dog Chaos
This game is wild and sure to induce nightmares for dog owners. In Dog Chaos, players assume the role of a cuddly canine cushion, aiming to cause chaos in their owner's home. The more mess you create, the more points you get.
Winter Den
Winter Den is a survival adventure about a mouse returning to its home in the woods, only to find it ruined and Aunt Mimi missing. Find resources, fix the house, and face freezing temperatures. Despite its adorable animation, Winter Den has its dark side, with hazards lurking in the forest. Play the game at the Indie Booth or the Xbox stand.
Goodbye Seoul
The Indie Zone also features more serious titles. Goodbye Seoul is a narrative puzzle adventure that revolves around hope and courage in a crumbling city. Pre-apocalyptic game Rion must uncover a secret, with the game's atmospheric pixel art style the standout feature.
Morriton Manor Stories
The Rocketbeans have revitalized "Tabletop" games through their YouTube channel. While the live stream version relies on participants' imagination, Morriton Manor Stories: Nordic Whispers has a visual foundation. The German studio combines traditional "Tabletop" elements like dice rolls and character development with a photo feature to save and revisit puzzle solutions.
Shadow Navigator
Optically and mechanically, Shadow Navigator is likely one of the most stunning and somehow pure games at the booth. Shadow Navigator is a sort of spirit that can only move in the dark and must navigate through various levels. This 3D platformer integrates elements of light, shadows, and animation directly into its gameplay. Jump from shadow to shadow using moving objects, people, or weather changes to progress. This can be quite tricky, as many subtle aspects need to be discovered first.
Retro Revenge
Retro Revenge fans will love this action-adventure game. In this game, the female Ronin Tomoe aims to end the tyranny of Shogun Akechi. The twist? The game is devoid of death and violence. Tomoe's task is to disarm opponents with well-timed counterattacks. This proved more challenging than anticipated. The game also has a humorous tone and entertaining scenes.
Tavern Chatter
Part 1: Tavern Chatter is a text-heavy, visual "Tabletop" game set in a fantasy world. However, you don't play as an adventurer; instead, you experience the game from the tavern keeper's perspective. Your job is to chat with adventurers, listen to their tales, learn new rumors, and send them on new quests. You can also support adventurers with magical potions.
Tavern Owner
Part 2: This time, you're the tavern owner in a medieval fantasy setting. Losing control will bring problems, not just logistically; it'll also challenge you to run a prosperous tavern, expand it, and deal with unwanted guests or bar fights in this management simulation.
The Commission, responsible for overseeing Gamescom, ensures a fair and inclusive event, providing opportunities for both large developers and indie creators. Visitors to the Indie Zone at Gamescom will be able to try out games like Goodbye Seoul, a narrative puzzle adventure with a hopeful atmosphere and atmospheric pixel art.
