5. Bright Memory: Infinite – Releases 2021 on Xbox Series X/S and PC
An Xbox Series X exclusive, Bright Memory: Infinite is actually an expanded remake of sorts for Bright Memory, an action-FPS game released recently. That game was ok, but really, really short. This time around, solo developer FYQD re-imagines and completely remakes the original, and the gameplay footage we’ve seen seems to confirm that all the effort will be worth it when the game launches in the coming year. The photorealistic visuals, maximizing the potential of the Unreal Engine, make for full immersion in the game’s intense environments, and the heart-stopping action on display in the Trailer promises that this will be one hell of an engrossing and adrenaline-fueled good time.
4. The Ascent – Releases 2021 on Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One and PC
Cyberpunk 2077 will undoubtedly be an amazing game but there are other cyberpunk games that we’ve been looking forward to as well. A prime example is The Ascent, another Xbox exclusive, that combines Diablo-like isometric exploration and combat with a cyberpunk aesthetic. Besides the obvious cyberpunk roots, The Ascent also gives off old-school Fallout and Wasteland vibes, and although it’s in an overhead view, the visuals looks flat-out gorgeous. If you like to play with a buddy, you’ll like the co-op gameplay that enables up to four people to join together. Maybe best of all, The Ascent will be a Game Pass title when it comes out, so you really have no reason not to check it out.
3. Kena: Bridge of Spirits – Releases March 2021 on PS5, PS4 and PC
A PlayStation console exclusive, Kena: Bridge of Spirits was supposed to come out in 2020 but like many games, was delayed by COVID. Let’s hope the new March 2021 launch date holds and we get to play this amazing-looking game by Spring. The visuals are shaping up to be a showcase of what the next-gen consoles can deliver, and judging by the footage we’ve seen so far, Kena: Bridge of Spirits will be a title that makes you glad you upgraded. But even for PS4 and PC players, the beautiful, rich environments and cute cast of characters will make exploring this sprawling open world adventure a rare treat.
2. Scorn – Releases 2021 for Xbox Series X/S and PC
In order to understand just how impressive, and deeply unsettling, Scorn‘s atmosphere is, you need to watch the gameplay footage below. Appearing to take full advantage of the Xbox Series X’s next-gen powers, Scorn’s environments are the closest you’ll come to being in Hell in a videogame. The realism is simply terrifying, right down to the little floaty things in the air as you explore. Inspired by artist H.R. Giger, the twisted, disgusting enemies you’ll face in the first-person shooter will make you soil yourself even while you admire their sheer repulsive beauty. Coming sometime in the coming year, Scorn is one of those rare titles that just might make you buy a new console just to play it.
1. Stray – Releases 2021 on PS4, PS5 and PC
We first got word of Stray, an upcoming cyberpunk exploration game from BlueTwelve Studio and Annapurna Interactive, in a surprise reveal during Sony’s PS5 unveiling in June 2020. Right from the get-go, Stray’s neon urban world had us hissing with excitement, not to mention the fact that you play as a cute kitty wearing an adorable little backpack. Gameplay seems to focus on navigating what is presumably an Asian city, jumping among various vertical levels to explore. In addition, there’s apparently a stealth element, which seems purr-fect in a game about cats. Plus, while it is in third-person view, the trailer fortunately doesn’t feature any awkward cat-butt views, which is a relief. Stray comes out “sometime” in 2021, but let’s hope it’s sooner rather than later.
Well, there you have it — the Top Ten indie games we just can’t wait to get our hands on in 2021. What do you think? What are some of the indie game titles coming in the next year that have your attention? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!