Games Like Indie Game: The Movie

Portal 2 draws from the award-winning formula of innovative gameplay, story, and music that earned the original Portal over 70 industry accolades and created a cult following. For more information on Portal 2 click here.

Why similar: Documentary 68.8% ★, Movie 25.6% ★, Feature Film 2.6% ★, Game Development 1.5% ★, Linear 0.7%

Why You'll Like It: A direct documentary companion that provides an intimate look at the development of a major title.

The Beginner's Guide is a narrative video game from Davey Wreden, the creator of The Stanley Parable. It lasts about an hour and a half and has no traditional mechanics, no goals or objectives. Instead, it tells the story of a person struggling to deal with something they do not understand.

Why similar: Indie 31.9%, Great Soundtrack 31.5%, Story Rich 24.5%, Emotional 11.4%, Singleplayer 0.6%

Why You'll Like It: A meta-narrative experience that deeply explores the relationship between game developers and their creations.

Written over the past four years, journalist Geoff Keighley ("The Final Hours of Portal 2") chronicles the making of TITANFALL from Respawn Entertainment. This longform app features never-before-seen photos, video and concept art from early development versions of the game.

Why similar: Documentary 96.9% ★, Feature Film 2.2% ★, Indie 0.5%, Story Rich 0.3%

Why You'll Like It: A detailed documentary chronicling the high-stakes development process of a major studio project.

An immersive, narrative videogame that retells Joel Green’s 4-year fight against cancer through about two hours of poetic, imaginative gameplay that explores themes of faith, hope and love.

Why similar: Documentary 86% ★, Great Soundtrack 5.1%, Indie 4%, Emotional 2.5%, Story Rich 2.4%

Why You'll Like It: A deeply personal and emotional indie project that mirrors the vulnerability shown by the developers in the film.

A story-driven experience about two doctors traversing backwards through a dying man's memories to artificially fulfill his last wish.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 49.4%, Indie 19.3%, Story Rich 17%, Emotional 11%, Linear 3%

Why You'll Like It: A quintessential indie title known for its emotional storytelling and focus on the human experience.

Manipulate the world around you by editing source code in an adventure game about a burnt out indie game developer's quest to fulfill a lifelong dream.

Why similar: Game Development 38% ★, Indie 20.6%, Linear 17.2%, Story Rich 14.2%, Emotional 9.6%

Why You'll Like It: A narrative-driven game that focuses specifically on the life, struggles, and programming work of a solo indie developer.

Gomez is a 2D creature living in a 2D world. Or is he? When the existence of a mysterious 3rd dimension is revealed to him, Gomez is sent out on a journey that will take him to the very end of time and space. Use your ability to navigate 3D structures from 4 distinct classic 2D perspectives.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 56.2%, Indie 43.3%, Singleplayer 0.5%

Why You'll Like It: A central game in the documentary that highlights the immense personal toll and creative obsession of solo development.

The infamous, tough-as-nails platformer comes to Steam with a playable Head Crab character (Steam-exclusive)!

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 57.5%, Indie 41.8%, Singleplayer 0.7%

Why You'll Like It: One of the iconic games featured in the documentary, showcasing the high-pressure development cycle of a breakout indie hit.

This is the original version of Braid from 2009, which may not work well on newer systems. For an updated version of the game with nicer graphics, more levels and a large amount of developer commentary, see Braid, Anniversary Edition.

Why similar: Indie 48.4%, Great Soundtrack 47.3%, Story Rich 3.7%, Singleplayer 0.6%

Why You'll Like It: An influential indie classic featured in the film that helped define the modern independent game movement.

A deep, interactive adventure about love and loss, beautifully depicted and offering an intense cinematic experience. What would you do to save the one you love?

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 45%, Indie 30%, Story Rich 18.5%, Emotional 6.1%, Singleplayer 0.4%

Why You'll Like It: An emotional, narrative-driven indie game that explores themes of loss and memory through a unique artistic lens.

Gris is a hopeful young girl lost in her own world, dealing with a painful experience in her life. Her journey through sorrow is manifested in her dress, which grants new abilities to better navigate her faded reality.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 65.6%, Indie 25.5%, Story Rich 8.5%, Singleplayer 0.4%

Why You'll Like It: An emotionally resonant indie experience that uses art and music to convey a powerful personal journey.

In Game Dev Tycoon you replay the history of the gaming industry by starting your own video game development company in the 80s. Create best selling games. Research new technologies and invent new game types. Become the leader of the market and gain worldwide fans.

Why similar: Indie 79.9%, Great Soundtrack 18.6%, Singleplayer 1.5%

Why You'll Like It: A simulation game that captures the cyclical highs and lows of building a game development studio from the ground up.

Experience the moving tale of a young woman and her lifelong bond with a magnificent wolf as they embark on a thrilling adventure through a rapidly dying world.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 39%, Indie 34%, Emotional 26.5%, Singleplayer 0.5%

Why You'll Like It: A visually stunning and emotionally heavy indie game that captures the same artistic spirit found in the documentary.

Discover the secrets of the Calamity, a surreal catastrophe that shattered the world to pieces.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 65.8%, Indie 23.7%, Story Rich 10%, Singleplayer 0.5%

Why You'll Like It: A landmark indie title that demonstrates the power of a small team to create a cohesive, story-rich world.

Help Madeline survive her inner demons on her journey to the top of Celeste Mountain, in this super-tight platformer from the creators of TowerFall. Brave hundreds of hand-crafted challenges, uncover devious secrets, and piece together the mystery of the mountain.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 64.5%, Indie 25.5%, Story Rich 9.5%, Singleplayer 0.5%

Why You'll Like It: A critically acclaimed indie game that explores themes of mental health and perseverance, much like the developers in the film.

The miserable journey of a broken man...

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 56.5%, Indie 25.7%, Story Rich 17.1%, Singleplayer 0.7%

Why You'll Like It: A raw, uncompromising indie RPG that reflects the unfiltered creative vision of its developer.

The Stanley Parable is a first person exploration game. You will play as Stanley, and you will not play as Stanley. You will follow a story, you will not follow a story. You will have a choice, you will have no choice. The game will end, the game will never end.

Why similar: Indie 78.6%, Story Rich 20.1%, Singleplayer 1.3%

Why You'll Like It: A meta-commentary on game design and player choice that challenges the conventions of the medium.

'Chasing Light' is the story of the seven days of exploring the physical properties of a game and uncovering an inner world of human beings and society. Have a weird trip!

Why similar: Indie 70.3%, Great Soundtrack 22.6%, Story Rich 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: An experimental indie narrative that prioritizes artistic expression over traditional gameplay loops.

You are his last hope. The only one who can rescue him. Delve deep into the dreams of Luke Williams, a man diagnosed with depression, unfold the heartbreaking story of his life and prevent him from... fading away.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 49.2%, Indie 21.8%, Emotional 15%, Story Rich 13.6%, Singleplayer 0.4%

Why You'll Like It: A lore-rich indie game that explores the complexities of the human mind through an emotional narrative.

Rocket of Whispers is an award-winning post-apocalyptic adventure that follows two survivors on a journey to launch a space burial for the lost souls of their desolate world. Help them search the snowy wasteland for supplies and the courage to say goodbye.

Why similar: Indie 41.8%, Emotional 30.3%, Story Rich 26.9%, Singleplayer 1%

Why You'll Like It: An emotional, story-focused indie game that highlights the importance of narrative in independent development.

Hike, climb, and soar through the peaceful mountainside landscapes of Hawk Peak Provincial Park as you make your way to the summit.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 57.6%, Indie 41.6%, Singleplayer 0.7%

Why You'll Like It: A cozy, heartfelt indie game that represents the pure joy and focus of a solo developer's vision.

Named Game of the Year 2019 by Giant Bomb, Polygon, Eurogamer, and The Guardian, Outer Wilds is a critically-acclaimed and award-winning open world mystery about a solar system trapped in an endless time loop.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 61.6%, Indie 19%, Story Rich 18.8%, Singleplayer 0.6%

Why You'll Like It: A masterpiece of indie design that emphasizes curiosity and the emotional weight of discovery.

This is the story of a fighter who wanted to become...

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 65.2%, Indie 29.5%, Story Rich 5.3%

Why You'll Like It: A passion-project indie game that demonstrates deep design knowledge and a love for the genre.

Unpacking is a zen puzzle game about the familiar experience of pulling possessions out of boxes and fitting them into a new home. Part block-fitting puzzle, part home decoration, you are invited to create a satisfying living space while learning clues about the life you’re unpacking.

Why similar: Indie 57.3%, Story Rich 41%, Singleplayer 1.8%

Why You'll Like It: A meditative indie game that tells a moving life story through the simple act of organizing personal belongings.

Congratulations. The October labor lottery is complete. Your name was pulled. For immediate placement, report to the Ministry of Admission at Grestin Border Checkpoint. An apartment will be provided for you and your family in East Grestin. Expect a Class-8 dwelling.

Why similar: Indie 56.5%, Great Soundtrack 30%, Story Rich 12.6%, Singleplayer 0.9%

Why You'll Like It: An indie classic that showcases how unique, experimental mechanics can tell a profound story about human struggle.

Niko is a spiritual journey through the dreams, where adventure, puzzles and mysteries come together in an oneiric and minimalist world. Dare to dream!

Why similar: Indie 99%, Singleplayer 1%

Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric indie puzzle game that focuses on minimalist storytelling and emotional tone.

Element4l is an immersive and experimental indie platform game, with a strong focus on flow and smooth gameplay, wrapped in an exceptional soundtrack by Mind Tree.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 54.2%, Indie 45.6%, Singleplayer 0.2%

Why You'll Like It: An indie platformer that relies on a strong soundtrack and atmosphere to convey its unique vision.

Greetings Enforcer, and thank you for enlisting in the Hypnospace Patrol Department! As the world falls into its slumber, Hypnospace becomes a bustling global village. These virtual streets aren't going to police themselves!

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 62.6%, Indie 21.9%, Story Rich 14.8%, Singleplayer 0.7%

Why You'll Like It: A creative, niche indie project that captures the nostalgic and experimental spirit of early internet culture.

This is a story of disease and suffering; of medication and adverse effects; of thoracotomy scars and cellular poisons; of the living who cannot help but to die and of the dying who cannot help but to live; of a resting place other than "on 7F" or "at home".

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 50.2%, Indie 26.4%, Story Rich 14.7%, Emotional 8.4%, Singleplayer 0.2%

Why You'll Like It: A poignant, story-rich indie visual novel that focuses on the emotional weight of its characters' journeys.

Uncover the lives, losses, and stories of two musicians from opposite sides of the tracks as they become superstars, fall in love and fall apart in this 90s narrative puzzle game.

Why similar: Movie 86.1% ★, Story Rich 5.1%, Emotional 4.7%, Indie 3.9%, Singleplayer 0.1%

Explore a deeply emotional story about love and sacrifice, and the hope that exists in us all.

Why similar: Indie 45.7%, Great Soundtrack 42.8%, Story Rich 11.5%

Uniquely presented as an hour long documentary film, The Mind of Marlo is a narrative driven adventure game focusing on love, loss and silly heads. Laugh and cry with Marlo as he gets to the bottom of his life changing condition, known as Spontaneous Silly Head Syndrome.

Why similar: Documentary 95.2% ★, Indie 3.3%, Story Rich 1.5%, Singleplayer 0%

From nobody to famous game producer in 3 years: that’s the journey you will live! Experience the trials and tribulations of game development in this life simulation game: live through the process of founding a small team and learning how to work together to develop a successful game.

Why similar: Game Development 49.9% ★, Story Rich 27.3%, Emotional 21.6%, Singleplayer 1.2%

This is just the story of a young and naive indie dev.

Why similar: Indie 100%

discover Worlds and characters, laugh cry and find the meaning of life

Why similar: Indie 59.8%, Great Soundtrack 31.4%, Story Rich 8.4%, Singleplayer 0.3%

Fall into the magically complicated world of Overture as the three main characters embark on an adventure that will shake their lives and the world around them. Will they fan the flames of the growing revolution, or will they be the key to extinguishing it?

Why similar: Indie 47.7%, Great Soundtrack 34.8%, Story Rich 16.7%, Singleplayer 0.8%

Discover a world where life is cheap, identities are bought & sold, & a quest for redemption can change the fate of a whole galaxy.

Why similar: Indie 44.5%, Great Soundtrack 31.4%, Story Rich 23.5%, Singleplayer 0.6%

Welcome to the charming world of Eastward - population declining! Journey through a society on the brink of collapse. Discover delightful towns, strange creatures and even stranger people! Wield a trusty frying pan and mystic powers on an adventure into the unknown…

Why similar: Indie 49%, Story Rich 49%, Singleplayer 1.9%

Rhythm in rains. Realization in dreams. "All the words, belong to a melody of rain. Resonating within ripples, dreams of human remain. Wading through unknown dreams, our understanding shall be gained..."

Why similar: Indie 52%, Emotional 46.9%, Singleplayer 1.1%

A pidgeon-doctor in a small town. A broken healthcare system. A heartfelt narrative game. Fall of Porcupine tells an emotional story about a young doctor who struggles to find his place. Accompany Finley in a lovingly illustrated world and uncover the darkest secrets of Porcupine.

Why similar: Indie 30.8%, Linear 24.9%, Emotional 22.1%, Story Rich 21.5%, Singleplayer 0.6%

An entirely different kind of basketball game. A narrative-driven journey told in four quarters.

Why similar: Indie 100%

Use the power of music to reawaken long forgotten memories in Distortions, a story-driven journey through a world of unparalleled beauty.

Why similar: Indie 100%

Before the Echo combines elements of both rhythm and role-playing games to create an entirely unique experience.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 61.1%, Indie 38.3%, Singleplayer 0.6%

A surreal post-life adventure

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 45.6%, Indie 40.3%, Story Rich 13.6%, Singleplayer 0.4%

In a mood for a little journey to a colourful world full of unexpected events and crazy characters? Jump into a feel-good adventure with rogue-lite elements, where action meets cuteness and powers come with friendship. A love letter to anime and quirkiness from two indie developers.

Why similar: Indie 53.4%, Great Soundtrack 46%, Singleplayer 0.7%

Yi and the Thousand Moons is a short video game musical written and developed by David Su. Through the course of several original interactive songs, featuring a full cast and live band, the game weaves a story of the archer Yi's journey to save her village.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 43.7%, Indie 32.7%, Emotional 12.9%, Story Rich 10.3%, Singleplayer 0.5%

Modify the world around you with pseudocode as you journey through blended realities and discover why Frank became a game developer in the first place.

Why similar: Game Development 36.2% ★, Linear 19.3%, Indie 19.2%, Story Rich 13%, Emotional 11.9%

Giana Sisters: Twisted Dreams is a blistering hardcore platformer with contrasting worlds.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 56%, Indie 42.7%, Singleplayer 1.3%

A comedic RPG about the cynical and hilarious realities of social interaction, personal growth, and confronting your inner demons.

Why similar: Indie 44.2%, Great Soundtrack 44%, Story Rich 11.8%

Two doctors traverse backwards through a dying man's memories to fulfill his last wish. This is To the Moon's standalone sequel, but can also be played first.

Why similar: Linear 37%, Emotional 33.8%, Story Rich 28.1%, Singleplayer 1.1%

Featuring a beautiful, detailed open-world and a haunting soundtrack, Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture is non-linear storytelling at its best.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 60.6%, Indie 26.5%, Story Rich 12.6%, Singleplayer 0.3%

In a world bound by truths: connect. In Falsus is a mesmerizing rhythm game tied to an intricate card system brought together through a layered narrative. Taking place in a near-future world, traverse an atmospheric soundscape through the eyes of 5 interconnected protagonists.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 41.5%, Indie 21.9%, Story Rich 19.6%, Emotional 16.5%, Singleplayer 0.6%

Bizarre Earthquake is a third-person point & click adventure game. The story is about a seismologist and her assistant who try to uncover the mysteries behind a bizarre earthquake they encounter.

Why similar: Indie 100%

Rage in Peace is a story-driven action adventure with elements of surprise and memorization. Unravel the last day of Timmy's life, as he races against time to get back home and fulfill his sole dream of dying peacefully in his pajamas, in the warmth of home, in peace, and with no drama.

Why similar: Great Soundtrack 51.6%, Indie 26.7%, Story Rich 11%, Emotional 10.3%, Singleplayer 0.4%

When indie game developers Alexey and Markus are in trouble, their only hope comes from their creation.

Why similar: Indie 96.4%, Singleplayer 3.6%

A game about the short journey of a boy who left home. Experience a dense story in around 2 hours, along with rhythm gameplay and music puzzles. Enjoy live acoustic sounds and a story that feels like a musical film!

Why similar: Linear 30.5%, Emotional 23.6%, Story Rich 23.1%, Indie 22.4%, Singleplayer 0.3%

Kevin is fed up with his game. Follow him in this atmospheric, dark and funny journey and fulfil his dreams. Is it even possible to escape?

Why similar: Indie 70.6%, Story Rich 29.4%

The Last Birdling explores Bimonia and Tayo's struggle to remain friends against all odds.

Why similar: Indie 77.5%, Story Rich 22.5%

Memory note is a slice-of-life visual novel with meaningful player choices, several endings to explore, and a story that will touch your heart.

Why similar: Indie 50.9%, Great Soundtrack 49.1%