Technology

Discover the Hidden Indie and AA Gems of Summer 2025!

2025-06-22

Author: Charlotte

Summer Gaming Extravaganza!

Get ready for the ultimate summer gaming experience as Summer Game Fest kicks off with the spotlight on the all-new Nintendo Switch 2 and a dazzling array of game reveals! But hold on—it's not just the big-studio titles that are capturing gamers' hearts this season. The indie and AA game scene is about to blow your mind!

11 Must-Play Underrated Games

Here are 11 hidden treasures you won't want to miss this summer!

1. The Alters

**Release Date:** June 13 (Available Now!) **Platforms:** PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox Series X Imagine encountering alternate versions of yourself! In *The Alters*, you step into Jan Dolski’s shoes, the last survivor of a scientific mission gone awry. Survive and build a base while grappling with the different paths your life might’ve taken.

2. BloodRush: Undying Wish

**Release Date:** July 1 **Platform:** Windows PC Action lovers, rejoice! *BloodRush: Undying Wish* blends the intensity of *Bloodborne* with the adrenaline of the movie *Crank*. In this hack-and-slash roguelike, your character battles enemies while bleeding out—ramp up the action by killing foes to replenish your blood.

3. Wheel World

**Release Date:** July 23 **Platforms:** PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox Series X In *Wheel World*, it’s time to pedal your way to heroics! Customize your bike and save the world in this charming, light-hearted adventure, originally unveiled as *Ghost Bike*. It’s all about the joy of cycling!

4. Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound

**Release Date:** July 31 **Platforms:** Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X A classic returns! *Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound* is a side-scrolling action-platformer that takes you back to its roots with pixel art aesthetics. Experience the nostalgic thrill and challenge, brought to you by the creators of *Blasphemous*.

5. Panta Rhei

**Release Date:** July 31 **Platform:** Windows PC Take command of time in this roguelike adventure! In *Panta Rhei*, protect the flow of time as you solve puzzles and tackle enemies, all while basking in its stunning art inspired by *Cocoon*. Try out the demo on Steam!

6. Artis Impact

**Release Date:** August 7 **Platform:** Windows PC Join Arkane and her AI companion, Bot, in a unique post-apocalyptic world filled with killer AI and delicious potato croquettes. Embrace turn-based combat mixed with everyday life activities in *Artis Impact*.

7. Tiny Bookshop

**Release Date:** August 7 **Platform:** Windows PC If you love books, you’ll adore *Tiny Bookshop*! Create and decorate your own cozy bookstore while recommending great reads to customers, stepping away from the pressures of real-life retail.

8. Sword of the Sea

**Release Date:** August 19 **Platforms:** PlayStation 5, Windows PC From the minds behind *Abzû*, *Sword of the Sea* promises stylish gameplay where you'll ride on waves of sand with your Hoversword, combining elements of skateboarding and surfing in a quest to restore the ocean.

9. The Knightling

**Release Date:** August 28 **Platforms:** Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox Series X Forget swords! In *The Knightling*, use a shield to battle enemies and even to surf through an open world. This platformer channels nostalgic vibes with gorgeous graphics.

10. Hirogami

**Release Date:** September 3 **Platforms:** PlayStation 5, Windows PC In a world crafted from origami, *Hirogami* allows you to transform into different shapes to navigate challenges and battle digital foes. Test out your origami skills in the demo available on Steam!

11. Hell is Us

**Release Date:** September 4 **Platforms:** PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox Series X *Hell is Us* offers a unique twist on the Soulslike genre—your enemies stay dead! As Remi explores a war-torn landscape in search of his parents, he encounters creepy challenges and deadly foes to confront with his glowing sword.

Conclusion: A Summer of Surprises!

This summer is set to be an exhilarating season for gaming, thanks to these remarkable indie and AA gems. Don’t miss the chance to experience creativity and innovation in gaming—mark your calendars!