Besides the PC, the Nintendo Switch is certainly one of the major platforms for fans of independent games. After suffering from a lack of third-party titles in the Wii U era, the Kyoto firm made a real turnaround during the next generation. Nintendo's hybrid console has become the best friend of small developers looking to reach a wider audience. With more than 139 million Switches sold (according to data from December 2023), it goes without saying that indie titles have every interest in earning their place on the eShop.
Better yet, the manufacturer has been taking care to organize live presentations dedicated to these productions for several years now. Broadcast two to three times a year, the Nintendo Indie Worlds are almost enough to overshadow the famous Nintendo Direct. Although the announcements are less spectacular and surprising, these conferences are still full of great surprises and other gems not to be missed. On this Wednesday, April 17, 2024, Nintendo has just broadcast its first Indie World of the year and has not failed to put stars in our eyes. Here is our summary of the major revelations that you absolutely must not miss (if you were waiting for Hollow Knight, you will be disappointed). The entire presentation is already available for replay on YouTube.
Little Kitty, Big City
After a futuristic and dystopian adventure in Stray, how about a new feline adventure with a completely different tone? Revealed a year ago, the adorable Little Kitty, Big City is ready to make its debut on Nintendo Switch and PC on May 9. After falling during his nap, the little prot-cat-gonist finds himself lost in the middle of a big city. While trying to find their way, players will be able to carry out different “Cat-llenges” among other missions to help the other animals in this urban environment. Between cute emotes and paw swipes to knock down passers-by, this game promises an experience 100% faithful to the life of a cat. If you're interested in this title, pre-orders have just opened on the eShop.
Yars Rising
The developers at WayForward, known for their work on the Shantae franchise, are back with a new title developed in tandem with Atari. Yars Rising promises to be a charming Metroidvania in a futuristic world, where the young protagonist will be able to put her hacking skills to good use. The short trailer was rather stingy with details about this adventure. The same goes for the launch: we'll have to make do with a release window set for this year. Let's hope, however, that the final title will benefit from better performances than these first jerky extracts...
Sticky Business and its DLC
After making headlines on PC, the incredible business management and sticker creation game is finally coming to consoles, with a first stop on the Nintendo Switch. The Kyoto firm is offering temporary console exclusivity for this little gem that is not to be missed. In Sticky Business, players must complete different sticker orders for their online store. Each purchase is accompanied by specific requests, allowing you to discover a small scenario specific to each customer. Against all odds, Sticky Business and the Plan with Me DLC will be available today on Nintendo eShop.
ANTONBLAST
Fans of Gameboy Advance-style platform games will be delighted. This new adventure full of energy, speed and destruction is already shaping up to be a must-play. The title will be available as a temporary console exclusive on Nintendo Switch from November 12, but will offer a demo version starting today. The perfect opportunity to discover this platformer with its atypical gameplay. After destroying everything while crossing the level and then defeating the boss, you will have to retrace the path in reverse before the bomb set by the protagonist explodes. Between original gameplay and retro and mastered artistic direction, ANTONBLAST is one of the big surprises of this Indie World.
Europa
Here is an indie title that makes players dream. The famous Europa, often presented as “the game that looks like the Ghibli films”, has finally given some news. This cozy adventure game took advantage of the presentation to unveil a new gameplay trailer as well as a release window. The title will be available in 2024 on Nintendo Switch and PC. The most impatient will be delighted to learn that a demo version will be available today via the Nintendo eShop.
SteamWorld Heist 2
While it didn't end with an announcement about Hollow Knight Silksong, this Nintendo Indie World still had one last surprise in store. Four years after its first installment, the turn-based strategic shooter franchise SteamWorld Heist is finally back with a second episode. Soberly titled SteamWorld Heist 2, this new adventure promises to expand on everything that made its predecessor a success. With more in-depth customization, new classes, and more than 150 weapons, there will always be more strategy to establish to successfully carry out the game's clashes. This time, it will even be possible to explore the map by boat to enjoy a new real-time naval battle mechanic. This title will soon land on Nintendo Switch: the date is set for August 8th.
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