This edition highlights recent developments in the independent gaming sector. The past week featured numerous engaging titles, with more anticipated soon. Before diving into the highlights, consider the challenges of gaming during travel.
The Steam Deck stands out as an impressive device. However, during a recent five-week holiday journey, it saw minimal use—less than an hour total—which raises questions about its bulk in luggage. Similar issues apply to the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation Portal.
For future trips, opting to leave these larger gadgets behind makes sense. A compact controller, such as the OhSnap MCON, could pair with a laptop or smartphone for occasional sessions. The Playdate handheld also warrants inclusion; this compact yellow device has a backlog of appealing indie titles, including the intriguing Diora. Pocket-sized options prove more practical for in-flight play, though the absence of a backlight on the Playdate remains a drawback.
Massive Monster, in partnership with Devolver Digital, has delivered the Woolhaven expansion for Cult of the Lamb, providing ample motivation for players to return. Access requires progressing near the end of the main campaign, without needing to defeat the ultimate adversary. New elements include dynamic weather, a mountainous region with two additional dungeons, a ranching mechanic for breeding animals as companions or resources, and further enhancements.
Enthusiasts of Cult of the Lamb often immerse deeply in its world. Following several years of complimentary updates, this substantial add-on matches the original's breadth, promising extended playtime for those exploring all content. Woolhaven is currently available on PC, Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One for $17 to owners of the base game.
Inkle, creators of Overboard! and A Highland Song, introduces TR-49, a narrative puzzle experience centered on a World War II-era computer. Over five decades, various documents like books, letters, and journals were processed to unlock the 'code of reality.' Players must locate and eliminate a particular book within a time limit.
The setup evokes intrigue. Inkle draws from deduction-focused titles such as The Roottrees are Dead, The Return of the Obra Dinn, and Her Story, plus audio drama influences. Solving the computer's secrets may demand note-taking for many. TR-49 launches on Steam for $7, with a 10 percent discount through January 28.
MIO: Memories in Orbit offers another Metroidvania entry, distinguished by its vivid visuals, from developer Douze Dixièmes and publisher Focus Entertainment. It has garnered favorable critiques since release. When AI overseers fail on an abandoned vessel, the robot protagonist MIO navigates the ship to recover fading recollections and avert destruction, acquiring tools like a grappling hook and gliding capability.
MIO: Memories in Orbit supports PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, Steam, Epic Games Store, and Microsoft Store at $20, including a 10 percent launch reduction on select platforms. Access is also possible through Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
Perfect Tides: Station to Station, a pixel-art point-and-click story-driven adventure, serves as the follow-up to Three Bees' Perfect Tides. Spanning an in-game year, it follows 18-year-old Mara as she navigates urban life and seeks belonging.
The trailer's early 2000s aesthetic captures nostalgia effectively. The title is now on Steam for PC and Mac at $20.
Tailside, a relaxing cafe management simulation, entered early access on Steam this week from Coffee Beans Dev, priced at $11 with a 10 percent discount until January 28.
Players serve beverages and treats to animal patrons while uncovering their backgrounds via newspaper tales. The experience emphasizes unhurried progression, featuring latte designs and cafe customization. Future updates will add visits to others' establishments and a floral boutique option.
A free content update arrives for last year's standout Ball x Pit on January 26, courtesy of Kenny Sun, collaborators, and Devolver Digital. It introduces two characters, eight unique balls with special traits, additional passives, and an undisclosed feature.
The Regal Update deploys across Steam, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and Switch 2. Ball x Pit retails for $15 and integrates with Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.
Vampire Crawlers, a roguelike deckbuilder inspired by Vampire Survivors from Poncle, offers a demo during Steam Next Fest on February 23, plus Xbox availability. Save data transfers to the complete version, launching on Game Pass day one.
Though turn-based and deckbuilding formats typically differ from preferred styles, the fast action and chaotic aesthetics of Vampire Crawlers, echoing its predecessor, spark curiosity. The full release targets Steam, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android later this year.
A demo for Ratcheteer DX is live on PC, preceding the March 5 launch on Switch, Steam (PC/Mac), and Mac App Store. It lists at $13, discounted to $9.75 temporarily. This enhanced edition recolors the original Playdate season one game Ratcheteer.
Updates encompass various visual modes, upgraded audio with CD-quality stereo, and expanded language support. Publisher Panic backs the project by developers Shaun Inman, Matthew Grimm, and Charlie Davis.
Concluding this overview, Pawsmonaut Games' solo-developed Aethus reveals a cinematic trailer and March 6 Steam debut. This narrative survival-builder unfolds in a dystopian sci-fi setting, where players 'forge a path from corporate exploitation's aftermath.'
As former mining specialist Maeve, equipped with starter tools and a drone ally, explore remnants of a botched expedition and derelict sites to claim a mining site, escaping a resource-plundering firm.
Advancement involves gear improvements and base expansion. Customizable options adjust air management, hunger/thirst rates, and inventory limits for personalized gameplay.
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