Summer Games Fest has essentially replaced E3 and while many people might be disappointed with this reality, It actually helps indie developers and players more than you think. We were able to see countless indie game trailers with this event that wouldn’t have a chance at E3. The more attention indie games get, the more competition in the gaming industry, and all games become better with strong competition (including AAA titles). Here are some of the best indie game trailers that came out of the Summer Game Fest! (according to me)
Wanderstop
What is Wanderstop?
From the creator of The Stanley Parable, Wanderstop explores a cozy setting with unsettling thoughts. You manage a tea shop that gets many interesting customers passing through. There are elements of magic, farming, shop keeping, and a story that explores mental disorders such as PTSD.
Why Wanderstop’s Trailer is Good
This trailer is slow paced but still does everything well. You quickly connect with the main character through dialog. Gameplay elements are clearly displayed. Characters are very expressive and you know their personality without them saying a single word.
Fear the Spotlight
What is Fear the Spotlight
Fear the Spotlight is a mysterious horror adventure game. Survive a séance gone wrong by solving puzzles and escaping with your life.
Why Koira’s Trailer is Good
While this is from the indie developer Cozy Game Pals, it’s published by Blumhouse which may be why the trailer is an absolute banger! The trailer is structured like a movie trailer. There’s tons of cinematic shots, voice acting, and amazing pacing. It’s clearly a creepy, story driven, puzzle game and I’m SOLD!
Neva
What is Neva?
From the developer of Gris, comes another beautiful 2D adventure game with elements of combat and puzzle solving.
Why Neva’s Trailer is Good
This trailers shows off gorgeous scenery. There are so many colorful settings with a contrast of creepy enemies and a mystical companion. In many ways it reminds me of Gris, which shows they know what their audience wants.
Tears of Metal
What is Tears of Metal
Tears of Metal is a bloody action packed hack and slash game. Not only do you participate in violent 3D sword fighting but you also manage an entire army.
Why Tears of Metal’s Trailer is Good
This game knows what it does well and shows it off. Action! It shows off bits of UI where you’re managing your soldiers but really focuses on the fighting scenes with different types of attacks and enemies.
Killer Bean
What is Killer Bean
The Killer Bean franchise was popularized by YouTubers like MoistCr1TiKaL . With projects like this game, it went from a meme to a something everyone wants to see more of.
Why Killer Bean’s Trailer is Good
The Killer Bean trailer solidified everyone’s trust that this game isn’t just a meme but a genuinely cool project. It showcases a 3D roguelike style gameplay with guns and bullet time features. The bullet time looks really fun to play and cinematic shots look professional.
Cairn
What is Cairn
Cairn is a unique game centered around rock-climbing. Find the best path to climb up a mountain while managing your resources in this survival-climber game.
Why Cairn’s Trailer is Good
You can feel the scale of the mountains in this trailer and how small the player is in comparison. The characters animations as they struggle to climb the cavern sells how difficult this game might be and makes me route for the protagonist. It also tells us this experience will be rewarding as we see several beautiful locations along the path.
Koira
What is Koira
Koira is a hand drawn adventure puzzle game. Explore a magical forest with your puppy companion and solve puzzles.
Why Koira’s Trailer is Good
A big part of this trailer is the music. Though there is no UI and a lot of walking, you still get to see there are plenty of puzzles to solve and places to explore. It feels very hopeful even though you’re surrounded by dark and creepy looking characters. This contrast caught my attention and makes me want more!
Phoenix Springs
What is Phoenix Springs
This is a modern take on the point and click puzzle game. With a unique art style and intriguing story line. Solve puzzles and investigate the case of your missing brother, Leo.
Why Phoenix Springs’s Trailer is Good
This trailer stays mysterious and leaves room for questions while still explaining exactly what the game will be like for the player. Point and click to move and interact with objects. It’s simplified so viewers are able to pay attention to the story more than figuring out the gameplay loop.
Possessors
What is Possessors
From the developers of Hyper Light Drifter comes another futuristic action packed game. Fight enemies while traversing a horrifying world in this 2D side scroller.
Why Phoenix Springs’s Trailer is Good
2D side scrollers are really hard to sell, but this nails it. The animations for every movement keeps your eyes on the screen. The lighting and gloomy nature sets the tone well for people who love dystopian horror.
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