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If you're looking to build up your wishlist, this roundup of the most exciting upcoming indie games for 2026 (and beyond) is here to help.
We've seen so many fantastic new games in the indie scene this year so far, but there are so many more to come. From cozy city sims to deckbuilding delights, and upcoming horror games, there's sure to be something to mark your calendars for here. And thanks to the many showcases that were a part of the Summer Game Fest schedule for 2026, we've got plenty of new indie goodness to look forward to, with the MIX Summer Game Showcase, Wholesome Direct, and Day of the Devs showcases dropping a host of reveals and announcements for new indies.
Of course, as you can see in our Steam Next Fest guide, we're set to see more demos drop this month which will give you the chance to try out a bunch of indie games ahead of release. But if you're on the lookout for some upcoming indie games for 2026 (and beyond) to watch out for and add to your wishlist right now, read on.
2026
Denshattack!
Release date: June 17, 2026
Platform(s): PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, Switch 2
We've all heard of grinding and kickflipped on a skateboard, but what about a gravity-defying train? In Denshattack, that's exactly what you do. Slated to arrive sometime this Spring, the colorful new adventure sees you set out in custom ride (which is that gravity-defying train) as you go on a quest to stop and defeat "the sinister Miraido corporation". Set across some of Japan's biggest cities, you can expect to meet a cast of misfits and go up against distinctive bosses as you try to build up your reputation and take on other reimagined trains.
Dark Scrolls
Release date: June 22, 2026
Platform(s): PC
Dark Scrolls is a new fantasy platformer with roguelike elements from developer doinksoft. Playing as a quirky hero of your choosing, you'll have to hack and slash your way through hordes of pixelated enemies, and dodge your way to past traps in procedurally generated runs through dungeons. With lots of skills to unlock, as well as new heroes to add to your roster, you can also try to complete side objectives and play in online co-op with a pal.
Moonlight Peaks
Release date: July 7, 2026
Platform(s): PC, Switch, Switch 2
If you want to tuck into a game like Stardew Valley but make it vampires, werewolves, witches, and mermaids, then Moonlight Peaks may just be one to add to your wishlist. The supernatural life from developer Little Chicken, you take on the role of a vampire who settles down in their family's abandoned home in a magical town. As you customize your cottage, build up your magical crops and animals, and make friends with the locals, you can even find love. Of course, come sun up, you'll need to be back in your coffin.
The Mermaid's Mask
Release date: July 16, 2026
Platform(s): PC, PS5, Switch, Switch 2
The Mermaid's Mask is a follow-up to the excellent 2019 murder-mystery detective game, Tangle Tower from developer SFB Games. Bringing back main sleuths Detective Grimoire and Sally, you'll set out with the pair set to investigate the murder of Magnus Mortuga, who was the captain of the "world's strangest submarine". Strange things are evidently going on, with the mention of a possible curse. How intriguing. As you hunt for clues, you'll be able to once again interact with a variety of objects, which are all now in 3D.
Big Walk
Release date: August 4, 2026
Platform(s): PC, PS5, Switch 2
If you loved the 2025 multiplayer phenomena that was Peak, then chances are Big Walk will be right up your street. Developed by the minds behind Untitled Goose Game, Big Walk is a charming-looking co-op game where you are your friends set out on a big hike together. The open world that you'll need to explore is packed with puzzles and cool discoveries to find. You'll also need to work to keep in contact via a variety of tools and toys.
Fields of Mistria
Release date: August 5, 2026
Platform(s): PC
After launching in Early Access back in 2024, the farming life sim Fields of Mistria from developer NPC studio is officially getting its 1.0 release this August, meaning that if you've been holding out until the storyline is complete, then you won't have to wait much longer. With marriage and children being introduced at last in the complete game, Fields of Mistria sees you carve out your own life in an idyllic village you set out to help restore. Along the way, you'll have your own homestead to customize, a farm to tend to, animals to raise, and you can also fish, mine, and more.
Grave Seasons
Release date: August 14, 2026
Platform(s): PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, Switch
If you love farming with a dash of something spooky, Grave Seasons looks like the slasher Stardew Valley of your dreams... and nightmares. Not only will this adorable pixel RPG see you tending the fields as a doting farmer, you'll get to know the locals and try to root out a serial killer who's been committing murders in the town. Oh, and you can also form a romantic relationship with one of the residents if you so wish, just be careful, because you could end up dating the serial killer.
TBC 2026
Arcane Eats
Release date: TBC 2026
Platform(s): PC
Arcane Eats promises to be one very tasty new roguelike deckbuilder. Served up from developer Wonderbelly Games, you take on the role of a chef who puts together a cuisine deck made up of mythic ingredients, kitchen tools, and culinary spells. Then, together with your cooking crew, you'll make meals for a host of fantasy characters.
Dressmaker
Release date: TBC 2026
Platform(s): PC
Dressmaker from developer Cozy Lives is a new crafting sim that will let you design and create dresses in a dress shop of your very own. From picking the fabric to cutting out and arranging patters, adding decorations, and sewing it all together, you can let your creativity flourish and sink into the laid back simulation as you bring to life custom dresses for the residents of a town.
Milki Delivery
Release date: TBC 2026
Platform(s): PC
Milki Delivery from developer Doot Tiny Games looks like a charming, cozy little adventure I can't wait to try out. Following a young bike courier called Neha, you set out to build up your own delivery business by bringing milk bottles to locals who live in the countryside. With the help of your trusty cow companion, you'll have your very own barn you can upgrade with the money and resources you earn. As you deliver dairy, you hear from the residents and start to learn more about their past lives in the countryside.
Moomin: Midsummer Madness
Release date: TBC
Platforms(s): PC, Switch, Switch 2
Another Moonmin adventure is on the way in Moomin: Midsummer Madness from developer Shochiku Games. Inspired by Tove Jansson's beloved stories, Midsummer Madness takes place after a flood has swept through the valley. Now, Moomin, Little My, and their friends find themselves in floating theater, and it's up to you to puzzle your way back home again. With a hand=painted style, it looks like another charming addition for Moomin fans.
My Eerie Lair
Release date: TBC 2026
Platform(s): PC
My Eerie Lair promises to be one for all of the dark romantasy fans out there. Described as a cozy furnishing experience with a twist, you take on the role of a vampire who's trying to win the heart of his kidnapped beloved by decorating his eerie castle into their dream home. Yes, if you enjoy decorating with a relaxing albeit dark vibe, this is one to watch out for.
Neverway
Release date: TBC 2026
Platform(s): PC, Switch
Neverway from developer Coldblood Inc is a new life sim that brings to mind games like Stardew Valley with its own distinct nightmarish twist. After leaving your dead end job to escape to a farm as protagonist Fiona, you find yourself becoming indebted as the herald of an immortal god. With three different times of day - morning, afternoon, and night - that you can advance to as you like, you'll farm and craft to try to rebuild your life and get to know the locals (with the option to even find some romance). But with some horror elements, you'll also fight and unlock combat abilities.
Otterly Lost
Release date: TBC 2026
Platform(s): PC
Otterly Lost is an adorable new open world adventure from developer Soulworks Interactive that sees you play as a sea otter called Otto. After getting swept out at sea, you have to try and find your way back home through unfamiliar waters. Along the way, you'll meet a host of friendly animals both in the water and on land, such as a fishing frog, and you can also customize Otto with an assortment of hats and shades (which is a very cute touch).
Over The Hill
Release date: TBC 2026
Platform(s): PC
From the makers of 2020's Art of Rally comes a new driving open-world adventure in Over the Hill. Set across various biomes inspired by real-world locations, Over The Hill lets you get behind the wheel of cars from the '60s through to the '80s, and you can simply enjoy driving around the landscapes to explore, or play with pals and work together to overcome challenges.
Spirit Crossing
Release date: TBC 2026
Platform(s): PC
Spirit Crossing from Cozy Grove creators Spry Fox is a new co-op MMO set in the stormy Crosslands. As a realm that sits between the human and spirit worlds, you'll be able to make yourself a home in the shared, ever-changing landscapes, gather flowers, take part in fishing tournaments, and interact with others in various ways as you help out lost spirits.
Toem 2
Release date: TBC 2026
Platform(s): PC, PS5, Switch
Toem 2 from developer Something We Made is the sequel to the wonderful 2021 photo adventure. Once again taking on the role of a photographer, the follow-up will see you set off on a new journey snapping pictures to uncover hidden secrets, solve puzzles, and help out friends along the way. The first game was truly a charming gem with a relaxing, laid back feel, and we have no doubt Toem 2 will be just as delightful.
Woodo
Release date: TBC 2026
Platform(s): PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, Switch 2, Switch
Woodo from developer Tiny Monks Tales is a charming new puzzle adventure with charming, cozy vibes. Described as being like a "3D coloring book you can touch", Woodo sees you put assemble wooden pieces of hand-crafted dioramas that start to come alive with color as you piece them together. The 3D art style is very delightful, and it looks set to offer up a laid-back experience.
TBC 2027
Fossil Quest
Release date: TBC 2027
Platform(s): PC
Fossil Quest will let you bring to life your own dinosaur museum in a management sim that will scratch your collecting itch. From developer Unsigned Double Collective, the adventure sees you step into the village of Follyoaks where your great aunt has left you her old manor house, which happens to be the perfect place to bring to life the museum of your dreams. From venturing out to dig up fossils to renovating the manor, you can put on exhibits and get to the know the locals, too.
Into the Unwell
Release date: TBC 2027
Platform(s): PC
Into the Unwell from developer She Was Such A Good Horse is a new action third person action roguelite that sees you play solo or with up to two pals in online co-op as you fight against inner demons in a strange, grotesque world brought to life in the style of 1930s Rubber Hose animations. You can check out our hands-on preview for this one if you're keen to learn more.
TBC
Book Nook
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
From Camper Van: Make it Home developer Malapata Games comes a new cozy builder in Book Nook. As the name of the game suggests, you'll be bringing together your very own little book nooks, assembling and putting together rooms and seeing how the pieces can all fit together. Designed to be a laidback, relaxed experience, you can take everything at your own pace and sink into the joy of setting out decoration and furniture just so.
CatchMaker
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
CatchMaker is an upcoming 3D adventure from developer Grand Duck Games that sees you explore a magical island full of bugs to discover and catch. But that's not all, as the steward of the island, you can try to match the bugs and help them find love. So yes, you're a sort of bug matchmaker, with every date revealing more about a bug's ideal partner.
Crescent County
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC, Xbox Series X/S
Crescent County promises to let us into an open-world on the back of a motorbroom. Dripping with colorful style, the upcoming "delivery life sim" will see you take on the role of a courier who drops off packages. You can even get stuck into some racing, and help out the locals. As you find jobs to occupy your time, you'll have many different ways to customize both your broom and your apartment. Along the way, you can get to know the people you meet and make some friends - and maybe even find love, with the promise of romance, too.
Curiosmos
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
Curiosmos is an upcoming space sim from developer Celine & The Silly Stars that looks every bit as cozy and whimsical as it promises to be. In it, you can build your very own solar system, putting together planets and moons by combining asteroids with stardust, and even create the gravity and atmosphere. As you go, you'll discover how to create weather, mold landscapes with everything from volcanoes and mountains, and eventually even bring life to your universe.
Dungeon Tourists
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
Dungeon Tourists from developer KMLO is a new online multiplayer rail shooter with a difference. You see, in it, you'll be shooting photographs from a kart on rails in procedurally generated dungeon levels. As you venture through the dungeons with your pals, each level will be a home to a story and targets for you to photograph. And as you snap curiosities, you can earn rewards for your discoveries. After each run, your pictures will also be evaluated with a score and shared.
Froggy Brews
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC, PS5, Switch, Switch 2, Xbox Series X
As a big fan of tea, I'm all about this one. Froggy Brews from developer Komodo Range is a new 2D adventure in a delightful hand-drawn artstyle that sees you play as a lonely teamaker called Froggy (who is, in fact, a little frog). As you venture through the forests and gardens to forage for ingredients to brew, you'll also serve various residents and try to find just the right blend for them as you steep seasonal ingredients, flowers, and more.
Haunted Paws
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
Haunted Paws from developer LazyFlock is an adorable but spooky upcoming co-op horror game that sees you and a pal play as two puppies who set out to rescue their human from a haunted mansion. You'll be able to sniff around, bark, dig, and get up to all sorts of canine antics as you go up against evil creatures and try to save your human friend.
I Am A Caterpillar
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
During the Wholesome Direct 2023 we got to see I Am A Caterpillar, which is a new indie adventure coming to us from DevFatigued. You play (as you might have guessed) as a caterpillar, only this wriggly friend is quite content as they are, and doesn't want to become a butterfly. On the day your transformation is supposed to happen, you set out to do everything you can to stop it. Yes, you're going to be a bug who wants to shape their own destiny. It looks adorable, with the chance to climb across colorful environments and meet and befriend a whole host of forest inhabitants.
Isle Goblin
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
Isle Goblin from developer Kilowatt Games is a open world pixelated adventure with survival elements that sees you play a little customizable goblin. As you set out to defend their island from human invaders, you'll explore the lands depths to mine resources, raise livestock and tend to a farm to keep your tribe going, and uncover hidden treasures. With a multiplayer mode, you can also team up with up to seven other players.
Neighborhoods
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
Neighborhoods is a new cozy city life sim from developer E-Line Media that's all about the community you care for and cultivate in the little claymation-like world. As you design your city, you'll try to make the citizens happy as can be by placing affordable places to live, places where they relax and enjoy themselves, and maybe have "very strong opinions about a bench" you've placed.
OKU
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
OKU sees you take on the role of a travelling monk who sets out on a spiritual journey across the beautiful landscapes of Japan. Writing Haiku-like poems along the way to connect with the natural world around you and unlock long forgotten pathways, you'll be able to the ride the winds to soar across meadows and rivers with Journey-like movement.
Pale Tide
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
Pale Tide from developer Aberratic is a new zombie survival extraction game that sees you set out into a world afflicted by a mysterious outbreak that has caused the inhabitants to go feral. With your trusty dog companion by your side, you'll head out on dangerous supply runs to find precious resources, and explore zones to uncover secrets and rare equipment as you manage and upgrade a bunker that provides you a place of safety.
Poly Fighter
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
Poly Fighter from HeartLoop Games is a new single-player roguelike fighting game that sees you step into the ring and take on opponents. With a classic arcade style, it brings in a roguelike element where every defeat will teach you something, and every victory makes you stronger. As you learn new moves that can be equipped, you can also unlock a vast selection of characters to fight with who all have their own unique perks.
Rebounder
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
Rebounder certainly stands out thanks to it "pulp-print" style, which pops with color and draws from zines and old sci-fi comics, you play as a worker who's said to be at the end of their rope who's known as a rebounder. As a precision platformer that's inspired by the hidden mechanics "speedrunners mastered in Kaizo ROM hacks", you can expect quick levels with fast respawn rates so you can get stuck into "unlimited attempts".
Theos: Cities of Myth
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
From the same team behind 2023's Pharaoh: A New Era, Theos: Cities of Myth is a new city builder inspired by the classic games in the genre. In the historical strategy sim, you'll build up your own metropolis dedicated to one of seven Greek deities. As you manage your citizens and their needs, you'll try to create a city that's worthy of your chosen god.
Way to the Woods
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S (Xbox Game Pass)
Way to the Woods is an upcoming adventure that follows the journey of two deer in an abandoned world that head out to find their way home. A trailer for the game back in 2019 quickly captured attention thanks to its beautiful, intriguing backdrop and the companionship of the deer and fawn protagonists at the heart of the experience. Said to draw inspiration from Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, and The Last of Us, Way to the Woods made an appearance towards the end of 2022 during the Wholesome Snack showcase.
Wylde Society
Release date: TBC
Platform(s): PC
Wylde Society is the new period drama life sim from Wylde Flowers developer Studio Drydock. While the studio's previous adventure saw us take on the role of a witch in a small town who raises a farm, Wylde Society will instead put us in the shoes of Vivian, who also happens to be a witch, but is also socialite and host. You'll be running your own magical boarding house, from planning and hosting events, to matchmaking others - and you can also get up to some witchy goodness, of course.
Keep track of all of the releases on the horizon with our roundups of upcoming Switch games, upcoming PS5 games, upcoming Xbox Series X games, and upcoming PC games.
