Since the release of the updated version of the PlayStation Plus catalog, there have never been so many games to play for such a low price. Though after combing through the Triple A titles, some of us are looking for more indie titles that may be flying under the radar. Here are titles included in the PlayStation Plus catalog that we recommend trying out.
Bugsnax
Though seemingly juvenile on the surface, playing through Bugsnax you realize it is anything but. The characters each have their own unique interests, personalities, and relationships, and catching the Bugsnax can prove to be quite a challenge. The many different biomes to explore, Bugsnax to catch, and decorations to acquire fill the game with a myriad of activities and challenges to complete. The tutorial doesn’t hold your hand, and trusts the player to discover unique uses for their tools and how each Bugsnak interacts with the world and the player which only becomes more in-depth as you open up new sections and slowly begin to solve the mystery central to the story.
Celeste
A challenging 2D platformer, Celeste also finds ways to challenge the player’s emotional stability. If you’re not afraid to confront your own anxiety, both literally and figuratively, then Celeste will offer a truly rewarding experience. Though the difficulty can ramp up severely in some places, with enough practice anyone can beat this game. The graphics are in 8-bit but still manage to create a unique and cozy charm to it that is unmistakable.
Stray
One of the most anticipated indie titles of 2022, Stray releases first and foremost in the PlayStation Plus Catalogue to everyone’s satisfaction. Though a short lived playthrough, usually around 8 hours, Stray is by far one of the most creative and enjoyable games this year. Playing as a stray cat, explore through a post-apocalyptic city filled with sentient robots, while solving the mystery of it all during your journey back home. While the world is very detailed, exploring the city through the lens of a cat creates unique relationships between the player and the level design which adds to the already adorable and sometimes spooky charm.
Slime Rancher
Slime Rancher allows you to live out your dream of capturing and harvesting slime poop. This game’s atmosphere, music, and gameplay is delightful and offers a (somewhat) relaxing escape. The game also follows a linear progression that allows for exploration and opportunities to grow and adapt your ranch. Whether you’re partial to optimizing your income, finding all the different slime combinations, or just exploring a unique world, then Slime Rancher accomplishes all of those exceptionally. Especially now that Slime Rancher releases in early access September 22nd, there’ll be plenty of more slimes to come.
Blasphemous
A balanced mix of Hollow Knight and Dark Souls, Blasphemous is a 2D side scroller with exceptionally dark themes in a gothic inspired world. Though pixelated, the artistry is truly unique and incredibly detailed. This game will help you rediscover your love for soulsborne games while dabbling into something entirely new. However, there is a difficulty gap that might throw off new players looking for something casual.
Graveyard Keeper
If you ever enjoyed Stardew Valley but wished it contained more organ harvesting, then Graveyard Keeper is for you. A top down, pixel-graphic, exploration game. Manage a rundown graveyard and learn the secrets of your mysterious appearance and the many, many, other mysteries the world has to offer. Though it does take a while to get yourself off the ground, it’s one of the many games that you’ll find easy to pick right back up on.
Have any questions or concerns? Tell us on Twitter.
Matthew has been a lifelong lover of video games since he could first hold a controller, and among his favorites are narrative-heavy, singleplayer games like; Divinity: Original Sin 2, Elden Ring, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Hollow Knight. Matthew also plays tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder and Call of Cthulu. He graduated from the University of North Texas with a bachelor’s in Sociology and minored in English.
