Fall really is the greatest season. It’s a time for feasting, snuggling up in the blankets, and the yearly Day of the Devs presentation. The show never fails to highlight amazing indies, and this year was no different. In fact, the seasonal delight might have gone overboard as it is celebrating it’s 10th anniversary. But which games stood out in this showcase? Here, in no particular order, are my five stand-out titles:
Mina the Hollower
The incredibly talented video games’ King of Late Night, John Carson, was the first person to clue me into this old-school action title. Being developed by the creators of Shovel Knight, we got to see a little more of the rodent hero’s adventure. Sadly, this unexpected treat didn’t come with a release date. So, fans will have to continue to keep an eye out for that launch window.
Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley
I’m always up for more of that sweet, Moomin action. Snufkin caught my eye earlier this summer during the Future Games Show. Though we still don’t know much about the title, except that it plans to release next year, today’s trailer gave players a glimpse of its story-book world, the narrative, and a little gameplay. I’m ready to go burn some signs and play music to lost baby birds. Oh, and anyone who would dare touch a hair on Cedric the dog’s head will face consequences.
Frog Detective 3: Corruption at Cowboy County
Breaking the pattern of no launch info shown at the show, Frog Detective’s final chapter is out. Right now! If the Day of the Devs’ showing didn’t give you the push you needed to pick it up, then you may want to check out my review of the game. Spoilers: it’s both rootin’ and tootin’.
Gunbrella
In what might have been my favorite game of the recent Steam Next Fest (but don’t quote me on that because so many fantastic games were included this time around), Gunbrella made for a spectacular addition to today’s indie exhibition. Like so many others, the creators weren’t ready to announce when to expect their title. But with a 2023 target window, they are sure to have news soon.
Dead Pets Unleashed
And now for something completely different. Dead Pets Unleashed follows the titular punk band has its members transform from struggling artists to music sensations. And just to add another twist to the already intriguing plot, all the musicians are demons. Part adventure game, part management sim, this title promises to deal with heavy themes — including scenarios that will come with serious content warnings — but isn’t afraid to dip into the silly, if its rhythm minigame is anything to go by. Developer Triple Topping has a demo up right now on Steam if you want to see more.
Besides a digital event, Day of the Devs is hosting a free in-person gameplay festival in San Francisco this weekend. So, count on me to play as many of them as I can, and share even more indie info in the coming weeks!
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