1. Prey
Yo, if you're into that immersive sim vibe, Prey (2017) is *it*. You wake up on Talos I, super confused, then things go sideways with these mimic aliens. The game lets you play however, whether you're morphing into a coffee cup or blasting everything with alien powers. Plus, the atmosphere is just chef's kiss – totally nails the spooky, abandoned space station feel. Seriously, the choices you make totally shape the experience, making each run feel unique. It's a proper ride.
2. Disco Elysium
Okay, so Disco Elysium (2019) isn't your typical RPG grind. You're a detective with amnesia, and your skills are literally arguing with you inside your head. The writing is insane, like, truly next-level, and every dialogue choice feels weighty. It's super deep, philosophical, and low-key hilarious in places. Don't expect huge action; this is all about the brain gains and unraveling a wild mystery. Definitely a must-play for story junkies.
3. Outer Wilds
Outer Wilds (2019) will mess with your head in the best way possible. You're stuck in a 22-minute time loop, exploring a tiny, doomed solar system. The whole game is about discovery – no map markers, just your curiosity. You piece together an ancient mystery bit by bit, and when it clicks, it's an actual 'whoa' moment. It's one of those games where you wish you could erase your memory to play it again. Seriously, go in blind.
4. What Remains of Edith Finch
This game, What Remains of Edith Finch (2017), is a straight-up masterpiece of storytelling. You explore this wild, sprawling house, uncovering the tragic, whimsical, and sometimes super dark stories of the Finch family. Each narrative segment plays out differently, totally unique in its mechanics, making every flashback hit different. It's a short but incredibly impactful experience that'll stick with you long after the credits roll. Get ready for feels, for real.
5. Inscryption
Inscryption (2021) is a total mind-bender. It starts as this creepy, dark card game, then just keeps twisting and turning in ways you absolutely won't see coming. It’s got roguelike elements, escape room puzzles, and a meta-narrative that pulls you in deep. The atmosphere is top-tier spooky, and the card mechanics are surprisingly strategic. If you're down for something truly unique and a bit unsettling, this is your jam.
6. Into the Breach
If you dig tight, strategic gameplay, Into the Breach (2018) is pure genius. You control mechs, trying to save cities from giant alien bugs in turn-based combat. Every move matters, and you're constantly making tough choices. It's a roguelite, so you get new runs and upgrades, but the core puzzle-like combat is always fresh. It looks simple but is ridiculously deep and satisfying. From the FTL devs, so you know it's quality.
