Indie - Softonic English

This indie game has been on sale for less than two weeks and is already one of the most critically acclaimed games of the year

Indie developer Nama Takahashi, known for his acclaimed title ElecHead, has surprised video game fans with the release of his new creation, titled Öoo. This game, which landed on Steam on August 7, has received Extremely Positive ratings from over 1,300 players, reflecting an impressive debut on the platform. A game about being an explosive caterpillar, Öoo presents itself as an adventure of exploration, platforming, and puzzles, with simple graphics and colorful levels that, at first glance, may seem modest. However, the true strength of Takahashi lies […]

The indie developer Nama Takahashi, known for his acclaimed title ElecHead, has surprised video game fans with the release of his new creation, titled Öoo. This game, which landed on Steam on August 7, has received Extremely Positive ratings from over 1,300 players, reflecting an impressive debut on the platform.

A game of being the most explosive caterpillar

Öoo presents itself as an adventure of exploration, platforms, and puzzles, with simple graphics and colorful levels that, at first glance, may seem modest. However, Takahashi’s true strength lies in his ability to design creative and interesting puzzles. The enthusiastic opinions of players highlight the originality and ingenuity behind the challenges that the game offers, making it a highly recommended experience for fans of the genre.

Reviews on the Valve platform highlight the quality of the design level and the game’s duration. One user comments that Öoo is “basically perfect,” praising the smoothness of its puzzles and its charming presentation. Another player notes that it is a “genuine masterclass on how to make video games correctly,” emphasizing the impeccable pacing and the evolution of mechanics throughout the game.

For those who wish to try Öoo before committing to a purchase, a demo is available on Steam, allowing players to explore the early stages of this experience. The game is economically accessible, with a price set at 9.75 euros, which may further attract fans looking for new adventures within the indie world.

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Jeff Buckley, Kristin Scott Thomas, and Cartuna dominate the summer box office

This weekend, several independent releases have managed to attract the public’s attention, although they have not significantly moved the needle at the summer box office. Among them, the documentary titled It’s Never Over stands out, paying tribute to the talented musician Jeff Buckley, who tragically passed away at a young age. This documentary seeks to capture the essence of an artist who, despite his brief career, left an indelible mark on music and continues to inspire new generations. Some more discreet releases, but knowing how to attract specific audiences Another relevant release is My Mother’s Wedding, the […]

Some more discreet premieres, but knowing how to attract specific audiences

Another relevant release is My Mother’s Wedding, the first film directed by actress Kristin Scott Thomas. The film presents a deep narrative about family relationships and has been well received at film festivals, although its box office impact has been limited, reflecting a recent trend in the cinematic landscape.

Likewise, the distributor Cartuna has made its debut in the film industry with the animated movie Boys Are From Jupiter. This project, aimed at a younger audience, combines an innovative visual style with a story that seeks to resonate with today’s youth. However, like the other releases of the weekend, the box office numbers have not met expectations, highlighting the challenges faced by independent productions in a market dominated by major franchises.

Despite significant efforts by these filmmakers and independent distributors, it seems that the summer box office remains a challenging territory, where even new talents fail to make a considerable difference in the overall figures. The audience may be more interested in conventional blockbusters, raising questions about the future of independent production in an ever-evolving cinematic landscape.

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According to the creator of Doom, the future of video games lies with indie developers

The recent wave of layoffs and studio closures at Microsoft reflects an alarming trend in the video game industry, which has been suffering job cuts over the past few years. However, this context of uncertainty contrasts with a notable resurgence of independent developers, who are helping to shape the future of the sector. The best games are being made in the indie space John Romero, renowned video game designer, commented in an episode of the Deep Dive podcast from Nightdive Studios that the industry has expanded considerably, especially in the indie realm. “You just have to look at Itch.io […]

The recent wave of layoffs and studio closures at Microsoft reflects an alarming trend in the video game industry, which has been experiencing staff cuts over the past few years. However, this context of uncertainty contrasts with a remarkable resurgence of independent developers, who are helping to shape the future of the sector.

The best games are being made in the independent sector

John Romero, the famous video game designer, commented in an episode of the Deep Dive podcast by Nightdive Studios that the industry has expanded considerably, especially in the indie sector. “You just have to look at Itch.io to see how many independent developers there are,” he stated. With nearly 19,000 games released on Steam in 2024, the competition is fierce, but Romero emphasizes that many of the titles nominated for Game of the Year are independent developments, highlighting their growing importance.

Despite the fact that development tools and distribution platforms, such as Steam and Godot, have made it easier than ever for developers to launch their games, visibility remains a critical challenge. As Romero points out, technology is no longer a barrier: “The main problem now is how someone is going to see your game.” This poses a complicated dilemma for creators, who must stand out among a crowd of releases.

Moreover, the financial situation has become more complicated. The pandemic made access to financing difficult, which in turn may affect the long-term sustainability of independent projects. Without the proper support, many developers are forced to balance game development with their daily jobs, which limits their ability to innovate and grow. Despite these challenges, Romero maintains an optimistic view of the future of the sector, suggesting that the growth in the number of players is a positive sign for the industry.

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The creators of last year's most acclaimed horror game are already working on their next game

Mouthwashing was released last year and quickly established itself as a benchmark in the horror genre in 2024, thanks to its oppressive atmosphere and its aesthetic inspired by graphics from the PS1 era. Developed by Wrong Organ, the game presents itself as a walking simulator with puzzle-solving elements, addressing themes of corporate greed, isolation, and moral ambiguity. The combination of these elements has resonated deeply with players, leading the title to become a milestone within the independent horror scene. It will not be about Mouthwashing, […]

It won’t be about Mouthwashing, but now longer

In response to its success, Wrong Organ does not plan to stop. According to Kai Moore, executive producer of the studio, the goal is to diversify its approach and explore new genres without sacrificing its creative identity. “We want to make it very clear that Wrong Organ is not just a walking simulator company,” Moore stated. “We are interested in rare and twisted narratives, and we want those elements to be expressed in different ways in the genres we choose to explore.”

Although the team has not yet revealed details about their next project, gameplay leader Jeffrey Tomec commented that they are looking to expand their creative approach. “We can’t just make an 8-hour game that works like Mouthwashing. We don’t want to stagnate as a company; it’s very important for us to explore different aspects of horror and gameplay”, Tomec stated.

For fans of Mouthwashing, these new plans suggest an exciting future where they will continue to see the essence of the game in future releases from Wrong Organ. With the indie industry constantly evolving, the studio seems determined to maintain its unique cultivation of horror and cohesive narratives, promising more surprises that will surely leave their mark on the genre.

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Like Solitaire, but terrifying: this is the new Steam game that is breaking sales records

Have you ever been scared while playing Solitaire? The answer is probably “no,” but that’s where Occlude comes in, the latest release on the Steam platform, which takes the classic card game to a new level by merging traditional mechanics with elements of occult rituals to offer a unique and immersive experience. This game not only challenges the player’s skill in organizing cards but also introduces a complex horror narrative that unfolds as you progress through each game. Here you will never be alone. The gameplay of Occlude maintains the familiar foundations […]

Have you ever been scared while playing Solitaire? The answer is probably “no,” but that’s where Occlude comes in, the latest release on the Steam platform, which takes the classic card game to a new level by merging traditional mechanics with elements of occult rituals to provide a unique and immersive experience. This game not only challenges the player’s skill in organizing cards but also introduces a complex horror narrative that unfolds as you progress through each game.

You will never be alone here

The gameplay of Occlude maintains the familiar foundations of Solitaire: a deck of cards that must be arranged sequentially. However, it introduces significant variations, such as the existence of two final piles for each suit, as well as a “purgatory” space where players can temporarily store cards. Additionally, each game presents hidden criteria that dictate the objectives to be met, making it more intriguing. Players must observe the clues that arise from the movements of the coins on the table, which change in response to the plays made.

Unlike other roguelike card games that primarily focus on deck building, Occlude prioritizes the puzzle aspect, creating an environment where solving puzzles is key to progressing. The narrative between rounds reveals disturbing stories about cursed characters trying to correct mistakes through a card-based ritual, generating an emotional bond that enriches the player’s experience.

With its unsettling atmosphere and innovative approach, Occlude stands out as a benchmark in the card game genre. By combining familiar mechanics with a dark and immersive narrative, players are invited to rediscover Solitaire in a way they have never imagined before, making this game a recommended choice for those seeking new challenges and captivating narratives.

This video game marketing expert has the key to why some games fail: we are like magpies

Currently, a hoarding phenomenon is emerging in the gaming community, where many accumulate games in their digital libraries without necessarily playing them. A report indicates that more than half of Steam players have not touched numerous titles in their collection, highlighting that the act of buying often prevails over the experience of playing. Chris Zukowski, a video game marketing expert, argues that this trend has been enabled by Steam, which offers superior social and curation features, in addition to legendary sales, thus attracting “hoarders” of digital entertainment. Accumulating […]

Currently, a hoarding phenomenon is emerging in the gaming community, where many accumulate games in their digital libraries without necessarily playing them. A report indicates that more than half of Steam players have not touched numerous titles in their collection, highlighting that the act of buying often prevails over the experience of playing. Chris Zukowski, a video game marketing expert, argues that this trend has been enabled by Steam, which offers superior social and curative features, in addition to legendary sales, thus attracting “hoarders” of digital entertainment.

Accumulating seems to be our thing

The competition from entertainment platforms, such as Netflix and video games, is leading indie developers to fight for players’ attention, who also have to manage their time among various activities, including sleeping. According to Zukowski, this poses a challenge for games that do not clearly fit within a genre; players tend to accumulate titles from well-defined genres, while those with ambiguous categories are less likely to be purchased.

As players become collectors, what many call the shame pile is repeated, where interested parties fervently buy, even without the intention of playing. Zukowski points out that this irrational behavior may have changed the commercial landscape: “If Steam players were rational and only bought games they would actually play, we would sell many fewer games,” he emphasizes.

However, this accumulation of games does not necessarily mean a disinterest in the gaming experience, but rather is part of the pleasure of collecting. With such an accessible shopping environment, players often find themselves at the crossroads of an expanding digital library, but with little time available to enjoy it.

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The best stealth game of the year has released all its source code for free so that people can modify it as they wish

Blendo Games ha tomado una decisión revolucionaria en el mundo del desarrollo de videojuegos al liberar el código fuente de su reciente título, Skin Deep. Este movimiento no solo permite a otros desarrolladores personalizar el juego, sino que también abre la puerta a nuevas posibilidades en el género de juegos de sigilo. El motor en el que se basa Skin Deep es una versión modificada de idTech4, conocido por ser la base de Doom 3, lanzado en 2004. Sin embargo, Blendo ha añadido una cantidad considerable de mejoras y características para cumplir con las expectativas de un videojuego moderno de […]

Blendo Games has made a revolutionary decision in the world of video game development by releasing the source code of its recent title, Skin Deep. This move not only allows other developers to customize the game, but also opens the door to new possibilities in the stealth game genre. The engine on which Skin Deep is based is a modified version of idTech4, known for being the foundation of Doom 3, released in 2004. However, Blendo has added a considerable amount of improvements and features to meet the expectations of a modern video game in 2025.

The doors open for mods

The source code published on GitHub gives developers the freedom to use it for both personal and commercial projects, as long as they publicly share any modifications they make. However, it is important to clarify that this does not make Skin Deep an open-source game, as its art, models, textures, audio, and levels remain protected.

In addition, Blendo Games has released a sample map pack aimed at helping developers better understand how Skin Deep works. These maps illustrate various game mechanics, making it easier to create custom content. Alongside this, a mods museum has been introduced that allows for analyzing the intricacies of the game from a technical perspective.

Skin Deep is available on Steam for a price of 20 euros, but it is currently available with a 20% discount due to the platform’s summer sale. With this initiative, Blendo reaffirms its commitment to the indie developer community, offering valuable resources for those who wish to delve into video game creation.

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The drama about the American dream that has swept festivals around the world arrives on streaming platforms

In a context where information overload seems to dilute the memory of films, the acclaimed work of director Sean Baker, Anora, now arrives on home screens thanks to its availability on the streaming platform SkyShowtime. Previously, the Oscar-winning film was only available for rent. A story about the search for a better life, Anora tells the story of Annie, a dancer and sex worker who, in her quest for a better life, becomes involved in an unexpected relationship with the son of a Russian oligarch. This seemingly connection […]

In a context where information overload seems to dilute the memory of films, the acclaimed work of director Sean Baker, Anora now arrives on home screens thanks to its availability on the streaming platform SkyShowtime. Previously, the Oscar-winning film was only available for rent.

A story about the search for a better life

Anora tells the story of Annie, a dancer and sex worker who, in search of a better life, finds herself in an unexpected relationship with the son of a Russian oligarch. This seemingly idyllic connection takes a tumultuous turn when he proposes to her, unleashing a series of events that revolutionize her already precarious existence.

Sean Baker, known for his focus on marginalized characters, uses Anora to critique the illusion of the American dream. Throughout the film, he offers a sensitive and empathetic look at those who are often ignored in mainstream narratives, presenting them with dignity and a touch of humor. The work strikes a remarkable balance between romance, comedy, and social drama, preventing these conflicting elements from clashing and instead building an immersive and captivating experience.

As the story progresses, Baker transforms the structure of the traditional romantic comedy, taking us from a fairy tale vision to a deeper critique of the shadows that loom over those struggling to survive in a system that constantly reminds them of their place in society. Baker’s ability to balance these different tones and themes underscores his status as one of the most prominent independent filmmakers of the 21st century.

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SkyShowtime is a streaming platform from which you can stream series, movies, and entertainment programs in video on demand (VOD) format. It is an ambitious project by SkyShowtime Limited, available in Spain and 20 other countries in the European Union and its area of influence, such as Norway or Bosnia and Herzegovina. SkyShowtime aims to carve out a niche in the market thanks to its very competitive prices. Thus, they will compete with services like Netflix or Disney +, two similar platforms that have increased their prices recently.

Five Nights at Freddy's becomes the best-selling game on Steam again, thanks to a peculiar spin-off

The game Five Nights at Freddy’s: Secret of the Mimic was released last week as the latest installment in the acclaimed horror series, which has maintained its popularity since the launch of the first title in 2014. In a short period of time, it managed to reclaim the top spot on the Steam bestsellers list, even briefly surpassing Dune: Awakening, before experiencing a slight drop in its position. A new twist for the franchise This new chapter invites players to immerse themselves in the abandoned workshop of Murray’s Costume Manor, where […]

The game Five Nights at Freddy’s: Secret of the Mimic was released last week as the latest installment in the acclaimed horror series, which has maintained its popularity since the launch of the first title in 2014. In a short period of time, it managed to reclaim the top spot on the Steam bestsellers list, even briefly surpassing Dune: Awakening, before experiencing a slight drop in its position.

A new twist for the franchise

This new chapter invites players to immerse themselves in the abandoned workshop of Murray’s Costume Manor, where they must unravel a mystery related to the inventor Edwin Murray. The game’s atmosphere is characterized by its unsettling ambiance, where every dark corner promises to hide a secret and every flicker of light may reveal a latent threat.

The focus of terror in Secret of the Mimic revolves around a prototype endoskeleton known as the Mimic, which has the ability to adapt to any disguise and become the character that the player fears the most. This interesting concept adds an additional layer of tension, as players will have to face an unpredictable adversary that plays with their fears.

The Five Nights at Freddy’s franchise has proven to be more than a passing trend in the indie world, establishing itself as a lasting series in the realm of horror video games. As the decade since its inception approaches, new installments continue to attract a wide audience, reflecting the impact and influence it has had on video game culture. Interested players can find Five Nights At Freddy’s: Secret of the Mimic exclusively on Steam, where its accessibility has made it easier for a new generation of gamers to delve into its eerie world.

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This game was announced in 2012, it was supposed to be released in 2025, but it has been delayed until 2026

The game Mewgenics, developed by the renowned Edmund McMillen, has changed its release date. Instead of coming out in 2025 as initially planned, it is now scheduled to debut on February 10, 2026. This decision is due to the complexity of the holiday period, where AAA releases flood the market, and McMillen wants his game to receive the attention it deserves. Edmund McMillen has no problem making us wait a little longer. In a message shared on Steam, McMillen mentioned that launching Mewgenics in November or December would be complicated due to the fierce competition from other […]

The game Mewgenics, developed by the renowned Edmund McMillen, has changed its release date. Instead of coming out in 2025 as initially planned, it is now scheduled to debut on February 10, 2026. This decision is due to the complexity of the holiday period, where AAA releases flood the market, and McMillen seeks for his game to receive the attention it deserves.

Edmund McMillen has no problem making us wait a little longer

In a message shared on Steam, McMillen mentioned that launching Mewgenics in November or December would be complicated due to the fierce competition from other titles arriving to take advantage of the holiday spirit. “We want this game to have the attention it deserves and we don’t want to compete with holiday releases,” he explained. Additionally, the delay will allow the team to have eight more months to perfect the programming and testing. This will result in a more polished and well-prepared experience for the audience.

Despite the fact that the holiday season is traditionally known as the “golden quarter” for retail sales, digital distribution has changed the game, especially for independent titles. While games like Balatro and Dave the Diver have seen notable success when released outside the holiday season, McMillen believes that choosing the right moment is more crucial than ever.

In order to keep its player community informed and excited, McMillen plans to conduct live streams and offer hands-on previews of the game starting in January 2026. “We know you want to play, and we want you to play too!” he commented. This strategy aims to not only increase the game’s visibility but also prepare players for its highly anticipated launch.

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