Here are a couple of lesser-known games that deserve some recognition.

Hey, fellow gamers! It’s been a while, hasn’t it? You might have heard my rants on the Retronauts podcast, but I haven’t shared my written thoughts in months. I apologize for the hiatus! Life has been hectic, but I have some exciting game reviews lined up. In the meantime, I’ve explored some indie gems that I’d love to spotlight due to their delightful charm. Just read on!

Xenobreakers: Classic Tower Defense

The title says it all. It’s a straightforward tower defense game, and it delivers exactly what you expect. I have fond memories of classic tower defense games, like sneaking onto Kongregate in IT class or playing Ninjatown on the DS. Xenobreakers aims to create a smooth tower defense experience that feels familiar and comforting. The unobtrusive tutorials barely needed attention as I jumped in and started setting up turrets, reminiscent of the good old days. It’s lane-based, equipped with all the modern conveniences you’d expect, and boasts a sleek interface that makes everything easy to reach without fuss. Strategically placing Command Towers enhances your existing structures by empowering your strategies against enemies.

Honestly, you’ve likely played a game like this before. Everyone has tried their hand at a tower defense title, but this one stands out for its accessibility and focus on providing an intuitive player experience while sidestepping the frustration found in more complex offerings. It’s derivative, yet very good, and priced at just five dollars, it’s worth grabbing for some nostalgic tower defense fun on your Steam Deck.

Bubble Ghost Remake

The original Bubble Ghost dates back to 1987 on the Atari ST, and I only have a vague recollection of it; it’s mainly remembered for its Game Boy port from 1990. In the game, you play as a ghost navigating a dangerous map while trying to guide a bubble safely through. Precision and careful manipulation are key to avoiding numerous hazards that could end your journey. The gameplay is intentionally tricky, encouraging players to master its mechanics to progress. Once you do, you’ll feel triumphant as you skillfully navigate through each level.

I genuinely enjoyed Bubble Ghost Remake and was pleased to see this unique game getting some love. I must admit I’m not a fan of the character art—the ghost looks a bit silly—but it has a distinct style, is well-illustrated, and aligns with a modest budget. While I won’t be endlessly blowing bubbles, I’ll certainly be maneuvering this liquid sphere through a gauntlet of spikes, spiders, and flames for quite some time!

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That’s it for now, fellow gamers! I’ll be back soon with more indie highlights, plus a look at some exciting upcoming Capcom titles. Until then, happy gaming!