10 Best Indie Action Games You’ll Enjoy in 2024

Indie games are continuously proving their expertise to drive the gaming scene with a boom. From big- to small-budget projects Indie game developers are showing up with top-notch action games. These games are built with cutting-edge technology, offering players adrenaline-pumping combat. Lest you get bored, these gems mix things up with captivating storylines bound to keep you on the edge of your seat.

As you take your break to join the gaming scene, we have compiled a list of the titles to watch out for. Whether a newcomer or a guru in this genre, these titles will set you off for 2024. Strap in, grab your controller, and let's explore the indie action games you won’t want to miss this year!

10. Enter the Gungeon

Enter the Gungeon follows an impressive outlook of combat video games. Firstly, the game pits players into a shooting spree against ‘bullets'. If that's not enough to draw your interest, the game suggests that your main purpose is to destroy the past, if possible. Now, to achieve this, Gungeoneers emerge in procedurally generated levels to shoot and kill enemies to attain victory. While at it, the players loot weapons and protection items. To keep the fire burning, the game takes away player's weapons every time they die, leading them to start the war unarmed.

9. Terraria

Terraria is that one game that aims to keep you hooked to the title till time immemorial. This, the game achieves by offering a variety of activities like fighting, building, and crafting, to mention a few. And when you are not in the combat line, you'll be exploring their vast environments. Although it is a 2D game, Terraria keeps the fire burning with its ever-challenging tasks. Basically, it is a classic that you wouldn't want to miss out on.

8. Blasphemous 2

Blasphemous 2 is a dark and moody action platform in which players control The Penitent One. The game takes place in a nightmarish world filled with eerie landscapes and grotesque creatures, where players uncover ancient secrets and fight to survive. It features intense combat and tricky platforming.

Players can choose from different weapons and abilities to defeat enemies and navigate dangerous environments. Blasphemous 2 also has complex levels and tough boss fights that test players' skills. Blasphemous 2 is known for its detailed pixel art, challenging combat, and rich story. Its blend of gothic horror and demanding gameplay makes it a standout in the action-platformer genre.

7. Celeste

Celeste is a challenging platform game where you help a young woman named Madeline climb a mountain. The story is about facing personal struggles and finding inner strength. The game has tight controls and focuses on timing and skill. You must jump, dash, and climb through difficult levels to survive. Celeste features one of the best designs and fair but tough gameplay. Its combination of challenge and emotion makes it a top game in the platformer genre.

6. Hotline Miami

Hotline Miami is a top-down, fast-paced action game set in a retro world. Players take on the role of an unnamed protagonist who receives mysterious phone calls instructing him to carry out violent missions. The game is famous for its brutal, high-speed combat and retro aesthetic. It offers intense action and an unforgettable soundtrack. The game's fast-paced gameplay and distinctive visual and audio design make it a standout title in the action genre.

5. Hyper Light Drifter 

Hyper Light Drifter is an action RPG with a top-down gameplay set in a post-apocalyptic world. Now, players take on the role of the Drifter, a character suffering from a deadly illness. They must explore vast landscapes, battle fierce enemies, and uncover hidden secrets.

The gameplay features fast-paced combat that requires precision. To survive, you must employ strategy and a blend of exploration and puzzle-solving. Now, the Drifter can use various weapons and abilities, which can be upgraded as players progress through the game. The game is known for its challenges, making it worth your time in the Indie action games. 

4. Vampire Survivors

Vampire Survivors is a unique rogue-like action game that blends simple mechanics with addictive gameplay. You must survive a wave of enemies in the game as you collect power-ups and abilities. Set in a dark, gothic world, Vampire Survivors features pixel-art graphics and a haunting soundtrack that enhances its creepy atmosphere. 

Furthermore, each playthrough presents different challenges and opportunities, making every session feel fresh and engaging. The game offers easy accessibility, replayability, and a satisfying progression system that keeps players hooked.

3. Hades

Hades is an action rogue-like dungeon crawler offering a thrilling and immersive experience. Players control Zagreus, the rebellious son of Hades. Now, the guy attempts to escape the Underworld to discover the truth about his lineage. In his journey, he follows an exciting, fast-paced combat with a rich narrative. 

Hades is highly acclaimed for its tight combat mechanics, deep story, and excellent voice acting. It creates a compelling and engaging experience that keeps players coming back for more. Moreover, its unique blend of mythology, intense action, and character development makes it stand out in Indie action games.

2. Dead Cells

Dead Cells is a standout action platformer that cannot be overlooked when listing the best Metroidvania games. This indie game is renowned for its procedurally generated levels, offering players a fresh experience with every run. With a variety of weapons and abilities, the game's fast-paced combat is both challenging and exciting. Each playthrough is unique as a roguelike, ensuring hours of engaging gameplay. Dead Cell is a top choice for any indie game enthusiast with its replayability, precise controls, and dynamic combat.

1. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight stands out in the Metroidvania action-adventure games with its immersive 2D experience. The game features a hauntingly beautiful underground world. Players explore vast interconnected areas in the game, battling enemies and uncovering secrets.

The game features challenging combat, platforming, and a deep, atmospheric world. If you love exploration, Hollow Knight emphasizes exploration and skillful navigation. Many players applaud the game for its art style, difficulty, and expansive world. Certainly, Hollow Knight is a favorite among fans of action and exploration.

So, what’s your take on our picks for the 10 best Indie action games of all time? What are some of your favorites? Let us know over our socials here or in the comments below.