2021 is here and that means new indie game releases are on the horizon. If you’re a gamer searching for a unique, creative and aesthetically appealing gaming experience, indie games are generally a great option to explore. The good news is that there is a large selection of indie games coming out in 2021; luckily, you do not have to wait too long because many are being released early in the year. Here’s a list of some of the most highly anticipated indie games coming out in January 2021:
Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights
Ender Lilies is a 2D Action RPG coming to Steam Early Access on January 21st. It’s a dark fantasy adventure game where players explore the ruins of a nation after a catastrophic event in order to unlock its mysteries. The art looks and the music sounds as hauntingly beautiful as the story portrays itself to be. Based on gameplay footage, it seems that players will engage in some platforming with plenty of stat-building battle-based gameplay as they embark on their journey, accompanied by the aid of summoned spirits and their mystical powers.
You can purchase this game here on Steam on January 21, 2021, available for Windows. The game will also be available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One.
Encodya
Encodya is a point-and-click adventure game coming out January 26th. It’s about an orphan girl and her journey alongside her robot guardian, SAM-53, as she attempts to complete her father’s mission to save the world from grayness. This 3D futuristic, dystopian world looks pretty expansive with lots to discover. It seems to bring a unique twist to the nostalgia of point-and-click games. Additionally, the game offers some randomization options to personalize each game run in order to make the puzzles and gameplay a bit more different for each run-through.
You can purchase this game here on Steam for Windows, macOS, and Linux on January 26, 2021.
Skellboy Refractured
Skellboy Refractured is an Action-RPG game coming out January 13th. It’s a charming 2D pixelated game where players take on the role of a skeleton trying to protect the world from a magician. Players can switch out body parts from friends and foes to boost their character’s abilities in a Kirby-like fashion as they work through the story. The art looks extremely cute and is a bit reminiscent of Paper Mario; It should appeal to those who enjoy that type of aesthetic.
The game is currently out on Switch, but you can purchase this game here on Steam for Windows, macOS, and Linux on January 13, 2021.
Lethal Running
Lethal Running is an RPG coming out on January 15th. You play in a pixelated world where you fight off persistent attacks from bounty hunters and do whatever you can to survive in a decimated wasteland. This is another futuristic, dystopian game that looks like it has a lot of promise with its gameplay, storyline and explorative options. It will be good to keep an eye out for this gritty skill-based game.
You can purchase this game here on Steam for Windows, macOS and Linux on January 15, 2021.
Cyber Shadow
Cyber Shadow is a 2D platforming game coming out January 26th. Players set off as a ninja named Shadow and take down synthetic lifeforms while unlocking the secrets to his clan’s ancient powers. This 8-bit game appears to be as gripping with its story as it is with its art. Gameplay footage hints that the game could be quite a challenge for those who are looking for an intense platforming experience, but seems to checks all of the boxes for a classic indie platforming game as well.
You can purchase this game here on Steam for Windows, macOs and Linux January 26, 2021. The game will also be available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
Sword of the Necromancer
Sword of the Necromancer is a dungeon-crawler action RPG game coming out on January 28th. Players take on the role of Tama attempting to bring back their beloved Koko from the dead. In this game, players go on an adventure with the ability to revive defeated foes, forcing them to fight by their side. You can boost your character’s stats, level up, and gather weapons and relics. The game art looks very cute and the cutscenes are made up of gorgeous hand-drawn CG illustrations.
You can purchase this game here on Steam on January 28, 2021, available for Windows and macOS. The game will also be available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, and PlayStation 5.
Enjoy the New Year!
There are a lot of games coming out this year so keep an eye open for those that particularly pique your interest. If you have the patience to wait after release dates, there are often many Steam sales throughout the year, so make sure to check out those opportunities when they arise. Hopefully some of these indie games for January 2021 bring you some joy to start your new year on a good note! Happy New Year and Happy Gaming!
