BEST INDIE
Previous Winners
2018: Dead Cells
2019: Luminous Avenger iX
2021: Metallic Child
Not every video game released is created by a 100-strong development team owned by one of the ‘big three’ video game console companies that is only matched by the massive PR push in every major sporting event and form of media out there. Some games are developed by a handful of talented individuals who just want to make a small game that tells a personal story, shows off a cool and innovative gameplay mechanic, or has a unique art style that has yet to be matched anywhere else.
This year’s contest for Best Indie was a tough one to decide, but ultimately only one game had to prevail.
This Way Madness Lies
NA Release Date: November 10, 2022
Platform(s): PC
Review
This Way Madness Lies, at first glance, is a game that does not seem like it would work. After all, there are magical girls who love putting on school performances of Shakespeare plays. In a game that clearly drew inspiration from Sailor Moon, the students at the Stratford-Upon-Avon High Drama Society speak in Olde English, have gorgeously illustrated transformation sequences, and turn-based combat that is unique enough to keep anyone playing hooked. Developed by Zeboyd Digital Entertainment LLC, This Way Madness Lies was an excellent title to close out 2022 with, and a game that really should not be missed.
Sifu
NA Release Date: February 8, 2022 (PC, PS4, PS5), November 8, 2022 (Switch)
Platform(s): PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch
Review
Imagine a world where you are a nameless protagonist who is hunting down the five assassins who murdered your family in five different locales with nothing more than your kung fu skills. In a unique twist, Sifu permits you to use the experience points you gain while playing and fighting enemies only when you die. As you die, your character also gets older and stronger, but loses just a little bit more health. Sloclap’s indie title is set in a gorgeous world with a gorgeous soundtrack to match, and it was an easy inclusion for this year’s Best Indie award.
Infernax
NA Release Date: February 14, 2022
Platform(s): PC, Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
Review
Infernax is a 2D Metroidvania title developed by Berzerk Studio that follows a knight who discovers that his home village has been overrun by monsters, after he returns home from the Crusades. Crowdfunded through a Kickstarter campaign and inspired by 1) the heavy music genre, 2) the NES Castlevania and Legend of Zelda sequels, and 3) historical events, Infernax builds something special upon all of these influences. With gorgeous pixel art, humor, and weapons/skills/magic upgrades that fit in perfectly with the numerous puzzles that the game will throw at you, Infernax handedly earned its spot in this year’s awards.
And oprainfall‘s
2022 Best Indie Award
Goes To… Infernax!
This was a category that was fairly easy to determine among the staff at oprainfall. For all the reasons listed above, Infernax easily took the pole position early on, and never let it up. This is simply a game that could not, and should not, be missed from 2022 and is an easy winner for Best Indie!
Congratulations Infernax for winning this year’s Best Indie Award!
Have you picked up Infernax? Do you agree or disagree with our choice?
Let us know in the comments below!
Thank you to Brandon Rose for the cover image. You can find his Twitter here.
