As the new year kicks off, it’s time to embrace fresh beginnings and, of course, fresh games. Last November, we shared our excitement about the 2024 Anniversary Collection, a special tribute to indie gaming that aims to grow every year. This collection will feature six handpicked indie games not on Xbox Game Pass, titles we consider essential for any gaming enthusiast. It’s like our annual nod to indie brilliance, a timeless collection in the Xbox Store. Keep your eyes peeled because next week, we have an even bigger surprise coming your way.
But before that, let’s dive into the games that are set to kick off your 2025 in style, just ahead of the celebrations next week.
Indie games released in December often fly under the radar, but this time, we’re shining a spotlight on them. Our January lineup includes some amazing remasters, quirky puzzles, whimsical puppets, and aquatic adventures that range from serene to action-packed.
In Raft, you’ll find yourself crafting a survival base from ocean debris. Who needs company? I braved it solo, but quickly realized I might need friends because sharks, apparently, can be quite the menace! The initial moments were daunting—busted tools, dehydration, and an undeniable struggle with steering. Yet, with every blueprint release, my confidence surged. The raft expanded, the water became drinkable, and I finally could navigate expertly. Exploring vibrant reefs and gathering resources became my new normal. Even when a bear appeared in my questing adventures, the challenge was exhilarating. I’m thrilled to share Raft with friends; it’s like upgrading from Tom Hanks in Castaway to a seasoned ocean explorer.
Raft by Axolot Games is a survival game where teamwork and strategy come into play as you build and navigate your floating home. It’s priced at $24.99 and highly rated by the community.
Fans of the Legacy of Kain series will be thrilled with the remastered Soul Reaver 1 & 2, a staple for anyone who appreciates narrative depth and clever puzzles. This series stands out for its unique environmental gameplay mechanics, where shifting between realms was groundbreaking at inception. The meticulous remaster includes improved models, modern controls, and exciting additional content. It’s a homage to its storied legacy, offering longtime fans and new players alike a chance to experience this iconic series anew.
Legacy of Kain™ Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered by Aspyr is priced at $29.99 and offers a return to its enthralling storyline with updated graphics and additional features.
Naiad is a beautifully crafted exploration game that lets you guide a mermaid-like creature through picturesque waterways, helping creatures along the way. It’s a gentle, dialog-free world that feels like floating through a dream. The simplistic yet intriguing objectives provide a soothing experience, like an interactive piece of art.
NAIAD created by HiWarp is available for $19.99, offering a serene journey through its vividly designed environments.
The quirky and engaging world of Great God Grove captivates with its original puzzle mechanics. Using a vacuum tool, you literally suck and launch words from dialogue boxes, which leads to hilarious and creative problem-solving. The vibrant characters and whimsical scenarios make it an entertaining adventure full of unexpected twists.
Great God Grove by Fellow Traveller is priced at $19.99, offering an amusing exploration of mythological mischief.
Fly Corp transforms you into a mastermind of global transportation networks. It starts out serene but quickly escalates into a test of strategic prowess. You’ll need to deftly manage passenger flows and route efficiency in a variety of game modes, each offering unique challenges. It’s a breath of fresh air for those seeking a break from high-octane gaming while wanting to test their tactical skills.
Fly Corp, developed by Klabater, is available for $14.99 and provides a challenging yet rewarding management experience.
The Thing brings a classic horror movie sequel to life in an intense remastered experience. With its gripping, tense atmosphere similar to Gears of War, this survival horror game captures the essence of fear and betrayal. Nightdive Studios expertly revives its core elements while adding a modern touch, making it a nostalgic treat for those familiar with the original and an exciting discovery for newcomers.
The Thing: Remastered by Nightdive Studios is back at $29.99, ready to immerse players in its chilling narrative once more.
And there you have it, our gaming picks to kick off January. But hold on, we’re not closing the chapter yet. Make sure to join us next week for the grand reveal of our Indie Selects Anniversary Celebration!
