The current Steam ‘Next Fest’ is underway, offering PC players access to many demos and trials for upcoming games until February 12. With hundreds of games available, ranging from cute simulators to thrilling horror experiences, we’ve sifted through the offerings to bring you some standout picks. Remember, supporting these games involves playing the demos and adding your favorite titles to your wishlist.
1) Pacific Drive:
- It is a supernatural adventure with a unique twist on survival gameplay focused on driving.
- Explore the ‘Olympic Exclusion Zone,’ upgrade your car, and navigate dangers.
- Offers surprising depth and a captivating soundtrack.
2) INDIKA:
- Set in an alternate Russia, this survival horror game follows a nun on a journey with a devil companion.
- Creates an unsettling atmosphere with a backdrop that evokes isolation.
- Explores the balance between theologies, presenting a compelling concept of good and evil.
3) Balatro:
- Ideal for deck-building enthusiasts, Balatro uses Poker as its base and introduces innovative elements.
- It is a roguelike experience with endless replayability and unique gameplay due to Joker cards.
- Promises a fresh and engaging approach to deck-building.
4) Star Tracker:
- Transforms truck simulation into a space adventure, allowing players to haul cargo through galaxies.
- Unique truck customization adds an extra layer to the game.
- Combines simulator elements with off-the-wall design for an exciting experience.
5) Crypt Custodian:
- A charming Metroidvania features an adorable cat protagonist.
- It is beautifully crafted with gorgeous painterly art, offering a unique elevator pitch.
- Smooth combat and platforming with both horizontal and vertical elements.
6) Coffee Caravan:
- Blends a cute exterior with a challenging cooking sim experience.
- It offers familiar gameplay but introduces roguelike elements such as more demanding customers and caravan upgrades.
- Strikes a balance between a relaxing and engaging gameplay experience.
7) Pepper Grinder:
- A captivating 2D platformer featuring fluid movement with a drill mechanic.
- It provides an engaging and joyful experience as you collect items, defeat enemies, and explore.
- It stands out with its unique drill mechanic, offering an exhilarating playthrough.
8) Hauntii:
- A visually stunning twin-stick shooter set in monochrome landscapes with a dreamlike atmosphere.
- Displays areas with black heavily utilized and a single color conveying emotion.
- It is described as a beguiling adventure uncovering the secrets of an expansive and mysterious world.
9) Southfield:
- Features a charming blue character reminiscent of Disney’s Baymax.
- Explores physics-based chaos with a character that feels like a playful, drunken toddler.
- Tasks players with establishing a farm of ‘chaotic crops’ using ‘playful machinery.’
10) Tiny Terry’s Turbo Trip:
- It is an extraordinary adventure centered around cars, this time launching one into space.
- Features a bonkers story, unique characters, a densely packed open world, and fantastic vehicular movement.
- Showcases bold designs and promises an extraordinary journey.
Explore these demos, discover your favorites, and support the developers by adding them to your wishlist for future releases.
With a Master’s degree in Art History, Chloé is our resident Indie Game Narrative Expert. She champions innovative and emotionally resonant indie titles, analyzing their storytelling, visual language, and artistic merit. Her features offer a unique perspective, celebrating games that push the boundaries of interactive art.