While no one should just a book or game by its cover, cover art is incredibly important to catch the eyes of players. Some franchises stick with what they know, such as Animal Crossing, Halo and Call of Duty, having similar art for every game. And when looking across some larger titles, a lot have the same concept of what to show on the front screen. Indie games, however, have always been diverse in its art style and what to show as their first impression.
From point-and-click, RPGs, adventures, or farming simulators, indie games have blessed the gaming industry with interesting stories, creative art styles and fantastic mechanics that have shaped the genre. There are also several indie games with amazing cover art that amazes fans, but what are the top ones?
5 Firewatch
This adventure game was developed by Campo Santo and published in 2016. Set in Wyoming, players are in a tower to watch out for any smoke that might be a potential fire. There is a radio that players can use to talk to their supervisor, the woman named Delilah. Since it is an adventure, players end up finding something strange and will leave the tower and explore the wilderness, where choices can be made.
Firewatch is a well-known indie game that has a twist at the end that draws some players in or out of the game. No matter what the contents of the game has to offer, the cover art is a unique and beautiful reference to what the game looks like inside. From the beautiful orange and red hue, showcasing Henry, the main character, surveying the land, it is no surprise that diving into the game looks just as beautiful as the cover.
4 Ori And The Blind Forest
Who doesn't like fluffy, soft creatures? And who doesn't love the idea of playing as one? This platform-adventure game was developed by Moon Studios and was published in 2015. The forest is dying after a powerful storm, and players must control this adorable creature to figure out how to save his home, which might mean confronting a dark and dangerous nemesis.
Ori and the Blind Forest not only tells an exciting adventure story, but it also is a beautifully hand-painted. The cover properly portrays what's in store for the players who want to dive into this amazing story to help the poor orphan save it's home.
3 Rain World
Developed by Adult Swim Games and published in 2018, this survival platform game brings out a lovely art style for the indie game genre. Playing as a slugcat, players must go through dangerous areas to find food and survive, however, it's not that easy. There are several foes that might find the slugcat as a meal. By sneaking through areas, players not only pass by enemies, but snatch up their dinner.
Rain World has a vast world to explore that is inspired by 16-bit classic games. The art style is similar to the cover, with the intense colors that vary depending on the room setting. From dark rooms with a red accent of trees, to light orange and yellow backgrounds with beautiful purple decorations. The game is stunning with the color pairings and amazing animations.
2 Hollow Knight
Another popular indie game that must make the list. The art design is well-known and any fan who has played this game can identify the game from a mile away. Developed by Team Cherry and published in 2017, this action-adventure game is a stunning piece of work. Play as an adorable Knight character that must explore the depths of a forgotten kingdom. Unravel mysteries and defeat the evils that traverse beneath the land.
Hollow Knight not only has a wonderful storyline, but the art style is impeccable. The animation and beautiful and the colors are moody and vivid, creating a beautiful piece of artwork with every area. Any fan of adventure and action that love the idea of adorable creatures and beautiful colors shouldn't pass up the chance to explore this story.
1 Night In The Woods
Published in 2017 and developed by Infinite Fall, this adventure game is as creepy as it is beautiful. Players will control Mae, a college dropout coming back home to Possum Springs, a mining town. Upon arrival, players will start to learn about Mae's background and her relationship with the townspeople. Not only is the main character a mystery that players will need to unravel, but the town itself has a terrible secret.
Night in the Woods is filled to the brim with story and character developments, and the art style is incredibly unique. The vibrant colors are striking, and the character designs are adorable and eye-catching, with smooth animations that make players want to stand in one area for a few minutes to take it all in. The cover art tells it all with the background and the grainy effect, showcasing the beautiful art style.