Best Indie Games on Game Pass PC and Xbox Console

Just got a subscription and are looking for the best indie games on Game Pass? We’ve got some of the top indie titles you should not miss!

Indie games can have some hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered by players like you. While they won’t be as ‘huge’ as AAA games from top studios, there’s something unique about them, especially because they are crafted with the heart and soul of independent developers. And to give them a spotlight, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best of the best.

Best Indie Games On Game Pass

These indie games are available on the Console as well as PC game pass at the time of writing this article.

10. Inside

Inside is a critically acclaimed puzzle-platformer released in 2016 and has captivated players with its dark and surreal atmosphere, challenging puzzles, some unique platforming and an unsettling story. It also won various awards including The Game Award for Best Independent Game and BAFTA Games Award for Artistic Achievement. If you’re looking for a unique and thought-provoking gaming experience that doesn’t shy away from darkness and ambiguity, “Inside” is definitely worth checking out.

9. Celeste

Celeste, released in 2018 by Extremely OK Games, is a 2D platformer that has climbed its way into the hearts of players and critics alike. It’s not just another jumping game – it combines challenging gameplay with a deeply personal and relatable story. Celeste deals with complex themes like anxiety and self-doubt as well as overcoming your inner demons. The platforming is addictive and you will end up discovering various hidden secrets and collectibles as well.

If you’re a fan of the pixel art style and an interesting challenge that offers more than just jumps and spikes, go for Celeste.

8. Cocoon

Cocoon is a game from Jeppe Carlsen, the lead gameplay designer of LIMBO and INSIDE. It’s described as an adventure across worlds within worlds, where you’re on your way to unravel a cosmic mystery. It’s a puzzle adventure game with a unique twist and mechanics and has received positive reviews from critics and players.

7. Ori and the Blind Forest

Ori and the Blind Forest is a stunning action-platformer developed by Moon Studios and published by Microsoft Studios. Released in 2015, it quickly attracted the attention of players with its unique art style, emotional story, and challenging yet rewarding gameplay. You play as Ori, a small white spirit guardian tasked with saving the dying forest of Nibel. Along the way, you encounter a cast of intriguing characters, including Sein, the light and eyes of the spirit tree, and Kuro, the dark nemesis responsible for the forest’s state.

The story is told through visuals and environmental storytelling, leaving room for interpretation and emotional impact. If this sounds appealing to you, this is one of the best indie games on Game Pass that you should not miss out on.

6. Ori and the Will of the Wisps

Another gem from Moon Studios, this sequel builds upon the foundations of its predecessor, offering an even more expansive adventure. Ori and the Will of the Wisps picks up after the events of the first game, with Ori and their newfound friend Ku venturing beyond Nibel into the land of Niwen. You once again control Ori, the fearless spirit guardian. This time, the stakes are higher, and Ori must master new abilities and confront even tougher enemies.

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5. Dead Cells

Dead Cells provides a fusion of genres Roguelike and Metroidvania which makes every playthrough interesting. Death sends you back to the beginning, but you do unlock permanent upgrades to become stronger each time. The Metroidvania aspect comes from a sprawling interconnected world, unlocking new abilities that give you access to previously unreachable areas.

There’s 2D platforming that blends with fast-paced, Souls-like combat. Mastering your dodges, parries, and weapon combos is crucial for your survival. Since you have an arsenal of different weapons and thereby gameplay styles, you won’t get bored.

The art style itself is a stylish mix of pixel art and hand-drawn elements but the gameplay is quite challenging. If you prefer such punishing games that end with the thrill and satisfaction of truly mastering their mechanics, this one’s for you.

4. Slay the Spire

Slay the Spire has fused card games and roguelikes like no other. It’s thrilling, challenging and the best part – it’s endlessly replayable. Strategic thinking is rewarded because mastering the art of combining cards isn’t so easy. Whether you’re a seasoned card game veteran or a curious newcomer, Slay the Spire can be an interesting choice for you if you’re willing to try out a genre that’s different from your usual picks. Once you dive in, you might find it difficult to stop playing.

3. Spiritfarer

Adding one more emotional game to our list, we have Spiritfarer. It’s a cozy management game with a lot of heart. You play as Stella, a ferrymaster tasked with guiding the spirits of the dead to the afterlife. Your job is to build and manage a boat as you explore the seas and befriend the quirky spirits who become your passengers. Each spirit has a unique story, behavior, and unfulfilled wishes, and it’s your task to help them find closure and say goodbye.

The game tackles themes of death, grief, and acceptance with honesty, but also balances it with heartwarming moments of friendship and love. I highly recommend this game which is why it deserves a spot in our list of the best indie games on Game Pass.

2. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is a 2D Metroidvania game that has blown up in popularity due to its graphics, gameplay and story making it one of the best indie gems. You play as the nameless Knight, a mysterious adventurer drawn to Hallownest’s mysteries. As you play, you’ll realize that the narrative unfolds through environmental storytelling, cryptic dialogue fragments, and subtle details.

The gameplay requires you to do some precise jumps, wall climbs, and dashes which can be challenging. In terms of combat, you get to weird a sword-like weapon to strike down infected creatures and collect their Soul essence, the game’s currency for upgrades and healing.

1. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley, developed by Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone, is a charming farm-life simulation game that took the world by storm in 2016. It has since captured the hearts of millions of players with its simple yet captivating gameplay, heartwarming characters, and endless possibilities. This is one of the best indie games on Game Pass that you shouldn’t miss out on.

While farming is at the heart of Stardew Valley, it offers so much more to discover. You can go fishing in the river or ocean, catch different fish depending on the season and location, venture into mines, or even romance or marry someone. Its customization, charming pixel art, soundtrack, and gameplay all come together to create a relaxing and addictive experience.

And there you have it! That was our list of the best indie games on Game Pass PC and Xbox console.