Hello everyone! And welcome back to another blog post. Indie games are a fantastic entry point for non-gamers or beginners looking to explore the world of video games. Unlike big-budget AAA titles, indie games often focus on creativity, storytelling, and accessibility, making them perfect for those who aren’t familiar with complex controls or fast-paced action. Their creativity and uniqueness will appeal creative and intriguing people and they’re a great way to enter the world of video game if you’ve never played before.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the best indie games for beginners—non-gamer friendly picks that are easy to learn, visually appealing, and incredibly engaging.
Why Indie Games Are Great for Beginners
Before diving into our list, let’s look at why indie games are ideal for newcomers:
✅ Simple Controls – Many indie games avoid complicated button combinations.
✅ Short Playtime – Some can be completed in a few hours, perfect for casual play.
✅ Unique Art Styles – Visually charming designs make them more inviting.
✅ Relaxing Gameplay – Less pressure than competitive or hardcore games.
✅ Affordable – Often cheaper than mainstream titles.
Now, let’s explore the best indie games for beginners!
1. Stardew Valley (2016)
Genre: Farming Simulator / Life Simulation
Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, Mobile
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
- No time pressure—play at your own pace.
- Simple controls with a mix of farming, fishing, and socializing.
- Extremely relaxing and rewarding.
2. Untitled Goose Game (2019)
Genre: Puzzle / Stealth
Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
- Hilarious and easy-to-understand concept (you’re a mischievous goose!).
- Short and sweet, with no complex mechanics.
- Great for casual, stress-free fun.
3. Journey (2012)
Genre: Adventure / Exploration
Platforms: PC, PlayStation, iOS
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
- No dialogue or complicated objectives—just explore and enjoy.
- Beautiful visuals and a moving soundtrack.
- Only takes about 2 hours to complete.
4. A Short Hike (2019)
Genre: Adventure / Exploration
Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
- Tiny open world that’s easy to navigate.
- No combat, just climbing, gliding, and chatting with NPCs.
- Can be finished in under 2 hours.
5. Overcooked! 2 (2018)
Genre: Cooperative Cooking Simulator
Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
- Best played with friends or family (great for non-gamers).
- Simple controls but chaotic fun.
- Encourages teamwork and communication.
- Fun for a date too!
6. Gris (2018)
Genre: Platformer / Puzzle
Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Mobile
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
- No fail states—you can’t die or lose.
- Stunning watercolor art style.
- Emotional, wordless storytelling.
7. Donut County (2018)
Genre: Puzzle / Physics-Based
Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, Mobile
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
- Simple one-button gameplay (you control a hole that grows as it swallows objects).
- Quirky humor and short playtime (~2 hours).
- No stress, just fun destruction.
8. Celeste (2018)
Genre: Platformer (with Assist Mode)
Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
- Includes an Assist Mode to reduce difficulty.
- Tight controls and rewarding progression.
- A heartfelt story about perseverance.
9. Spiritfarer (2020)
Genre: Management Sim / Adventure
Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
- No combat, just exploration and resource management.
- Emotional narrative about saying goodbye.
- Beautiful hand-drawn animation.
10. Slime Rancher (2016)
Genre: Farming / Adventure
Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
- First-person but very relaxed—no enemies to fear.
- Cute slimes to collect and care for.
- Open-ended gameplay with no pressure.
Final Thoughts: Indie Games Are Perfect for New Gamers
If you’re new to gaming or looking for a relaxing experience, indie games offer some of the best entry points. The titles listed above are easy to learn, visually appealing, and designed for enjoyment rather than frustration.
Which one will you try first? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re interested in any of these games, you can look out for them in the Steam Store here.
Need to play them all