Hey everyone! How many video game lovers are here? We all probably have our favorite childhood games or ones we keep coming back to from time to time. Today, I want to tell you about my favorite games — the ones that really stuck with me.
Let’s start with some lesser-known games that might be unfamiliar to many, but hold a special place in my heart.
Game #1: Ib
Genre: RPG (jRPG), Adventure
Themes: Drama, Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Ib – is an indie horror game created by Japanese artist Kouri using RPG Maker. Released in 2012, the game immediately captured the attention of fans with its unique atmosphere and original storyline. Players take on the role of a little girl named Ib, who finds herself in a creepy world when visiting an art gallery with her parents. It all begins when she accidentally gets left alone in an empty, eerie museum, and supernatural events start occurring around her. Soon, Ib discovers that the world of the gallery has turned dark, and the paintings and sculptures have come to life.
Story and Atmosphere
At the core of the story is the unusual concept of living works of art. Throughout the game, Ib encounters dangerous objects, puzzles, and mysterious characters, such as Harry, a friendly man, and Mary, a girl whose true intentions are questionable. The game’s atmosphere is filled with tension and intrigue, creating a constant sense of unease and making players think carefully about every step they take. On her path to freedom, Ib must explore the gallery and face various challenges, gradually uncovering the eerie secrets of this world.
Gameplay
Ib doesn’t feature traditional combat, which sets it apart from most horror games. Here, solving puzzles and being attentive are key. Many tasks require logical thinking and keen attention to detail. Players need to interact with objects and the environment, search for keys, and solve riddles. The game also emphasizes the need to make quick decisions, as some situations demand lightning-fast reactions to avoid danger.
Endings and Replayability
Ib is also known for its multiple endings — there are about seven in total, and the outcome of the game is influenced by the choices players make throughout the journey. The variability of the endings adds depth to the narrative, and every decision feels meaningful. This layered structure allows for replaying Ib and experiencing different endings, making each playthrough exciting.
Graphics and Sound
Ib features pixel art graphics, which add to its charm and create a retro game feel. Although the visuals are quite simple, the atmosphere remains strong and, in fact, is enhanced by them. The sound design, on the other hand, perfectly captures the grim mood, and the music helps immerse players fully into the horror atmosphere.
Conclusion
Ib is a prime example of how an atmospheric game with a focus on story and player choices can leave a lasting impression. It’s perfect for those who enjoy psychological horror and unique puzzles. Despite its simplicity, the game captivates and makes you think, while the plot twists and endings are sure to leave an impact. If you haven’t played Ib yet but love mysterious stories and games with a distinctive style, this one is definitely worth checking out.
Game #2: Angels of Death (Satsuriku no Tenshi)
Genre: RPG, Horror
Satsuriku no Tenshi (or Angels of Death) is an adventure horror game created by independent developer Makoto Sanada using RPG Maker. Released in 2015, the game quickly gained popularity due to its unique style, captivating story, and dark atmosphere. It later received manga and anime adaptations, which helped attract even more fans.
Story and Characters
The story begins with the main protagonist, 13-year-old Rachel “Ray” Gardner, waking up in a strange, abandoned hospital. She has no memory of how she ended up there and only wants one thing — to escape this eerie place. However, she soon encounters terrifying inhabitants, one of whom is a maniac with a sickle named Zack. Like the other characters, Zack has a mysterious past and follows his own moral code. At one point, Zack and Ray make a peculiar agreement: she will help him escape, and he will fulfill her strange request, promising to kill her if they manage to get out alive.
Each floor of the building where Ray is trapped has its own “master” — a character with a unique backstory and personal motives, which makes the journey even more terrifying and mysterious. The floors represent separate “worlds,” each filled with traps, puzzles, and deadly threats.
Gameplay
Satsuriku no Tenshi differs from standard horror games. It doesn’t have a combat system; instead, players must solve puzzles, avoid dangers, and engage in dialogues with characters. These elements emphasize the atmosphere of despair and create tension. Players get to observe the developing relationship between Ray and Zack — arguably one of the most intriguing aspects of the game. Their strange “friendship” is filled with dark moments, desperation, and even a kind of twisted attachment.
Since each floor presents unique challenges and storylines, the gameplay remains varied, and the plot twists draw players deeper into the building’s sinister history.
Atmosphere and Graphics
The graphics are done in a pixel art style, reminiscent of classic RPG horror games. Despite the simplicity of the visual effects, the game leaves a strong impression. The art design, dark corridors, and maze-like rooms create an atmosphere of hopelessness and fear. The sound design plays a significant role, highlighting emotional moments and intensifying the tension.
Themes and Symbolism
Satsuriku no Tenshi explores complex themes such as death, psychological trauma, and the search for meaning in life. Ray and Zack are deeply developed characters, and their interactions often touch on issues of morality, life, and death. As the game progresses, the characters evolve, and their actions take on new meaning, making the ending have a strong emotional impact on players.
Conclusion
Satsuriku no Tenshi is a captivating game for fans of psychological horror and stories with deep moral dilemmas. Its dark atmosphere, unique characters, and intriguing plot make it truly engaging and distinctive. If you enjoy solving puzzles and exploring complex relationships between characters, Satsuriku no Tenshi is definitely worth trying.
Game #3: Yume Nikki
Genre: Adventure, Surrealism
Yume Nikki (translated from Japanese as Dream Diary) is a cult indie horror adventure game created by the developer known as Kikiyama and released in 2004. Made using the RPG Maker engine, the game immediately caught attention for its mysterious atmosphere, unique style, and freedom of interpretation. Without a clear storyline or traditional gameplay, Yume Nikki is an exploration of a dream world filled with strange and sometimes terrifying imagery.
Story and Gameplay
The game centers around the main character, a girl named Madotsuki, who is locked in her room. The player has two choices: stay in the room or go to sleep, after which her journey into the dream world begins. In the dream, Madotsuki finds herself in various surreal locations filled with absurd images and strange characters. Instead of a traditional narrative, players explore these quirky, bizarre worlds, solving symbolic puzzles and encountering beings that can be either friendly or ominous.
The main goal of Yume Nikki is to collect “effects” scattered throughout the dream world. These effects are items or abilities that can alter the environment or change Madotsuki’s appearance. Effects can range from practical, like the ability to teleport, to purely cosmetic, such as transforming into a zombie. The game doesn’t guide players on a specific path, allowing them to choose the order in which they explore the world.
Atmosphere and Visual Style
Yume Nikki uses pixel art and simple animations, but this does not hinder the game from creating a unique and eerie atmosphere. The dream worlds in the game are filled with psychedelic imagery, strange creatures, and unsettling sounds. The constantly changing locations and visuals create a sense of loneliness and alienation, enhancing the feeling of journeying through the subconscious. The soundtrack, which features minimalist yet disturbing melodies, also plays a significant role in establishing the game’s distinct atmosphere.
Themes and Symbolism
The game does not provide clear explanations for its imagery, leaving room for many interpretations. Some see in Yume Nikki a symbolism of psychological trauma, depression, and anxiety, which can manifest in such fantastical images. Others believe the game represents the inner world of a person locked within themselves, where every element holds personal significance. Themes of isolation, longing, and dark self-discovery are key elements that attract players interested in deep and complex topics.
Influence and Legacy
Yume Nikki has inspired numerous indie developers and became one of the most well-known examples of RPG Maker horror. The game led to fan-made projects, remakes, and even an official sequel, Yume Nikki: Dream Diary, released in 2018. Its surreal and minimalist approach to gameplay also influenced popular indie games such as Undertale and LISA.
Conclusion
Yume Nikki is a unique game that offers rare freedom for interpretation and personal reflection. Its abstract nature, strange imagery, and eerie atmosphere make it one of the most memorable indie games. It’s not a game for those seeking action or a structured plot, but for those willing to dive into a mysterious and personal dream world, Yume Nikki will be an unforgettable experience.
Game #4: Sally Face
Genre: Adventure, Horror
Sally Face is an indie horror adventure game developed by Steve Gabry, released in 2016. It captured the attention of players with its unique characters, dark atmosphere, and an unusual story filled with mysteries and psychological nuances. Sally Face stands out from many horror games by focusing on psychological and emotional aspects rather than relying on sudden scares.
Story and Characters
The game’s story focuses on a boy named Sal Fisher, nicknamed “Sally Face” due to the facial prosthetic he wears after a tragic incident. Along with his father, Sal moves into the Addison Apartments, which becomes the main setting of the game. Over time, he befriends Larry, a neighbor, and several other strange inhabitants of the building. But soon, he realizes that the apartments hold dark secrets, and together with his friends, he begins an investigation.
Throughout five episodes, Sal encounters mystical events, dark memories, and sinister characters. The story slowly but steadily gains momentum, blending tales of paranormal occurrences, tragedies, and the struggle with personal demons. Sally Face is filled with themes of loss, friendship, trauma, and the complexity of self-discovery.
Gameplay
Sally Face uses elements of a point-and-click adventure, where players must solve puzzles, interact with characters, and explore locations. The game boasts a deep narrative, with each episode revealing details about the characters’ pasts and the mysteries of the building. As players explore the Addison Apartments and other locations, they collect clues and details, gradually piecing together the full picture of what’s happening.
Puzzles in Sally Face play a significant role, varying from simple tasks to more complex ones that require observation and logic. Solving these puzzles is often accompanied by small scenes that shed light on the stories of the building’s inhabitants or offer hints about future events.
Atmosphere and Style
One of the strongest aspects of Sally Face is its visual style. The game features a dark and grotesque art style, reminiscent of indie animations with dark themes. The simple yet vibrant graphics effectively convey a sense of discomfort and unease. The surreal atmosphere is amplified by eerie soundtracks and unsettling music that emphasize moments when the player encounters something inexplicable and frightening.
The emotional moments and grotesque style help Sally Face stand out among other horror games. Its story is presented through flashbacks and Sal’s dreams, allowing the player to peek into his inner world and understand what it’s like to live with trauma and inner fears.
Themes and Symbolism
The game tackles complex themes, ranging from self-acceptance and personal struggles to psychological trauma and loneliness. Sal, facing difficulties and challenges, finds support in his friends, who help him overcome tough moments. Many see Sally Face as a metaphor for battling inner demons and accepting oneself as is, despite the judgment of others.
The symbolism in the game is expressed through visual imagery, dialogue, and events, allowing each player to interpret the story in their own way. For example, Sal’s prosthetic is a symbol of his struggle with the past and the traumas he carries with him.
Influence and Popularity
Sally Face quickly gained cult status due to its unique approach to the horror genre and its strong emotional narrative. The game earned recognition among indie game and horror-adventure fans and received numerous positive reviews for its deep characters and atmosphere.
Additionally, it became a source of inspiration for fan art, fanfiction, and even theories, as its layered storyline invites players to dive into details and search for hidden meanings.
Conclusion
Sally Face is not just a horror game, but an emotionally rich story exploring themes such as trauma, friendship, and inner demons. Its unconventional approach to horror, visual style, and complex characters make it one of the most memorable entries in the genre. For those who appreciate not only frightening moments but also deep, personal stories, Sally Face will be a true revelation.
Game #5: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Genre: Action/RPG
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a cult game by the Polish studio CD Projekt Red, released in 2015, and became one of the most popular role-playing games in history. It is based on the book series by Andrzej Sapkowski and continues the story of Geralt of Rivia, a professional monster hunter, as he searches for his adopted daughter, Ciri. The game features a vast, detailed world, engaging quests, a well-designed combat system, and a rich story that intertwines fantasy with grim reality.
Story and Characters
The story begins with Geralt searching for Ciri, who is hiding from the Wild Hunt — a mysterious army of ghosts threatening her because of her unique abilities. Along the way, Geralt will encounter old friends and enemies, cross paths with powerful factions, and influence the fate of the continent.
The characters in The Witcher 3 are unique and deeply developed, each with their own motives, backstories, and personalities. Among them are Yennefer and Triss, powerful sorceresses and former lovers of Geralt, who play significant roles in his life, as well as Vernon Roche, Dettlaff van der Erelyn, and many others. Their actions and relationships with the main character depend on the choices the player makes and can radically alter the game’s ending.
Open World and Exploration
The world of The Witcher 3 is truly vast and detailed, with a wide variety of locations, from dense forests to snowy mountains and ancient ruins. Players can freely explore lands inhabited by both humans and various creatures. Unlike many role-playing games, every area, from villages to cities, has its own stories, culture, and inhabitants who react to Geralt’s actions and decisions.
Exploring the world is accompanied by numerous side quests, which are not only engaging but also help reveal its depth. In The Witcher 3, even secondary tasks often present intricate stories with unique characters, moral dilemmas, and consequences. This turns the game into an exciting journey, where even the smallest details can influence the perception of the main plot.
Combat System and Character Development
The combat system in the game is well-developed and requires both tactical thinking and skill. Geralt wields two swords: a steel one for humans and a silver one for monsters, as well as magical signs that allow him to use magic to control enemies. Every fight requires preparation: before battling a powerful monster, you can study its weaknesses and use special oils, bombs, and potions to gain an advantage.
Players can also improve Geralt’s abilities as he progresses, choosing from a wide range of skills related to combat, magic, alchemy, and monster knowledge. This allows players to create their own fighting style and strategies, tailored to their preferences.
Graphics and Atmosphere
The game is renowned not only for its stunning graphics but also for its attention to detail. The vibrant landscapes, changing weather and time of day, meticulously crafted cities and villages, and unique style make the world of The Witcher 3 one of the most realistic and immersive in the gaming industry. The music in the game also deserves recognition: the soundtrack, composed by Marcin Przybyłowicz and other composers, helps create the atmosphere of a mystical, dangerous world and makes Geralt’s journey even more captivating.
Themes and Philosophy
One of the strongest aspects of The Witcher 3 is its ability to raise complex moral questions and portray a real world where there is no clear black and white. Geralt is forced to make tough decisions, and none of them are strictly good or bad. The game explores themes of love, sacrifice, betrayal, and the struggle for survival. It also addresses social issues such as prejudice, war, and political intrigue.
Expansions and Legacy
The Witcher 3 received two major expansions: Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine. Each introduces new quests, characters, and storylines that add depth to the game’s world and reveal new aspects of Geralt’s life. The expansions were highly praised for their content quality, further solidifying the game’s position as one of the best RPGs.
The game became a cult classic, winning numerous awards, including “Game of the Year,” and is still regarded as one of the greatest games of all time. Its influence can be seen in other RPGs, which strive to meet the same high standards in world design and storytelling.
Conclusion
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a game that took RPG standards to a new level. With its unique world, strong characters, and captivating storyline, it became a masterpiece that will continue to inspire fans of the genre and developers for many years to come.