Have you ever wondered why everyone’s talking about triple-A games all the time, but only a few talk about small indie gems? In a time when mostly the “big” developers can market their games to a wider audience, smaller, underrated games stay hidden.
We are here to shed some light on their names and bring them justice. There are some amazing games out there that didn’t get the hype they deserved, but absolutely deserve a place on your gaming collection. Here’s a list of underrated games that you might not have played, but really should.
1. Moonlighter
| Platform(s) | PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch iOS, Android, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S |
| Developer | Digital Sun |
| Genre | Action RPG, Roguelite, Simulation |
In Moonlighter, you play as a humble merchant trying to make a living. However, when the night comes, you become a dungeon hero battling monsters. This hybrid of shop management simulation and action RPG is 100% addictive and perfect for those who like short play sessions.
Why you should play:
It scratches both the Zelda and Stardew Valley itches in one.
2. Eliza
| Platform(s) | PC, Nintendo Switch |
| Developer | Zachtronics |
| Genre | Visual Novel, Narrative Adventure, Interactive Fiction |
In this visual novel, you play as Evelyn Ishino-Aubrey, a former tech worker who becomes a proxy for an AI therapy service called Eliza. The game is mostly dialogue-driven, with choices that influence the direction and tone of the story. Eliza has minimal gameplay mechanics, and that makes it perfect for players who enjoy thoughtful storytelling.
Why you should play:
It’ll leave you thinking long after the credits roll. If you liked games like Coffee Talk, Citizen Sleeper, or Heaven Will Be Mine, Eliza is a must-play.
3. Röki
| Platform(s) | PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S |
| Developer | Polygon Treehouse |
| Genre | Adventure, Puzzle, Point-and-Click, Narrative |
A beautifully illustrated puzzle adventure steeped in Scandinavian mythology. You play as Tove, a young girl who is searching for her family through snow-covered forests, icy caves, and dark magic. It’s part fairytale, part emotional journey.
Why you should play:
It’s peaceful, mysterious, and deeply atmospheric. Perfect for fans of games like Gris, Spiritfarer, or Oxenfree.
4. Yoku’s Island Express
| Platform(s) | PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S |
| Developer | Villa Gorilla |
| Genre | Adventure, Puzzle, Pinball Platformer |
You play as Yoku, who moves around the open world using pinball flippers, bumpers, and ramps. A game perfect for fans of creative indies like Ori or Donut County.
Why you should play:
It’s like if Sonic chilled out and got into Zen gardening. I think that describes it perfectly!
5. Outer Wilds
| Platform(s) | PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S |
| Developer | Mobius Digital |
| Genre | Adventure, Puzzle, Sci-Fi |
You play as an astronaut exploring a solar system stuck in a 22-minute time loop. There’s no combat, just exploration and one of the most rewarding narratives in gaming.
Why you should play:
If you enjoy games like Return of the Obra Dinn or Subnautica, then Outer Wilds is a must-play for you!
6. Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective
| Platform(s) | Nintendo DS, iOS, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One |
| Developer | CAPCOM Co., Ltd. |
| Genre | Adventure, Puzzle, Mystery, Visual Novel |
You play as Sissel, a recently murdered man who wakes up as a ghost with no memory, and you have only one night to uncover the truth behind your death. Use ghost powers to possess objects, rewind time, and uncover a wildly twisty plot.
Why you should play:
It’s emotional and impossible to put down once it grabs you. Perfect for fans of Ace Attorney, Professor Layton, or The Case of the Golden Idol.
We live in a golden age of gaming, but that means some of the shiniest treasures get buried in the flood. These games may not have sold millions or gone viral on TikTok, but they’re absolutely worth your time. Whether you’re into storytelling, mechanics, or just weird little experimental vibes, there’s something on this list for you. Got an underrated fave of your own? Drop it in the comments. I love discovering hidden gems.
