For the past decade or so, independently-developed video games have seen quite the surge in popularity. These more niche titles created by smaller teams have served as enticing alternatives to big budget, triple-A experiences. While most mainstream attention has fallen on the home console side of things, there has also been a plethora of exciting indie concepts in the arcade sector as of late. If you’re a fan of coin-ops or you’re just looking for something different, this small sampling of innovative titles should really do the trick.
1. Killer Queen
Developer: BumbleBear Games
Publisher: BumbleBear Games
Release Date: August 2013
One of the most engrossing aspects of the arcade atmosphere is the shoulder-to-shoulder, in-person multiplayer, and Killer Queen takes this to its logical extreme. Killer Queen is, at its most basic level, a 10-player, team-based strategy game. Based on a field game of the same name, the title offers teams the opportunity to win through three different means: military victory, economic victory, or snail victory. With so many players, a lot can be happening at once, requiring teams to keep an eye on every aspect of the conflict.
Despite its simple control scheme, there’s a lot more depth to Killer Queen than most other arcade games on the market right now. However, those who stick with the mechanics will reap great rewards. The game has already garnered an incredibly dedicated (albeit small) community, and the upcoming Nintendo Switch port will only make it bigger. But of course, playing on two gigantic arcade cabinets will always be the definitive experience. If you’re looking for real-time strategy and a whole bunch of yelling and cheering, Killer Queen is the game for you.
2. Skycurser
Developer: Griffin Aerotech
Publisher: Griffin Aerotech
Release Date: April 2016
After Killer Queen, Skycurser was the next independently-developed arcade game to garner significant mainstream attention, and for good reason. Griffin Aerotech wasn’t just crafting a single game but a brand new arcade hardware platform, as well. The Airframe Arcade Operating System was made by indies for indies, and Skycurser was a fantastic launch title. Skycurser is a horizontally-scrolling, hard-action shoot-em-up inspired by directly by the in-your-face violence and attitude of 90’s gaming.
With four pulse-pounding missions and twitchy gameplay, Skycurser is a must-play for any arcade or shmup fan. And while the title doesn’t define itself by multiplayer the same way Killer Queen does, it does offer support for two simultaneous players on one cabinet. Additionally, those who complete the main game are rewarded with a much more challenging second loop — with no continues allowed. Skycurser is a solid experience through and through. If you’re looking a for a 90s-fueled adventure loaded with blood, guts, and glory, Skycurser is the game for you.
3. Cosmotrons
Developer: Arcadeaholics, LLC.
Publisher: Arcadeaholics, LLC.
Release Date: May 2018
Cosmotrons, even compared to other indie games, seems a bit lo-fi. The vector graphics-inspired imagery harken way back to the late-70s and early-80s. Even the deluxe cabinet variant, constructed entirely with fiberglass, screams Computer Space. But Cosmotrons, with all of its love for the past, is just as modern as any other game on this list. The core mechanics of this unforgiving, four-player space shooter are inspired by classics like Gravitar and Space Duel, but it’s clear early on how much deeper it goes.
While Cosmotrons does feature a single-player option, the multiplayer modes are where the title really shines. VS is a chaotic free-for-all.Team is a 2v2 battle in which groups must destroy their opponent or raise a flag to win. Be the Boss pits three players against one massively overpowered one. However, if you happen to be alone, Single Player allows you to explore the 20-plus maps, hone your skills, and participate in timed speed runs. If you like duking it out with your friends and exploring unique mechanics, Cosmotrons is the game for you.
4. Tipsy Raccoons
Developer: Glitchbit
Publisher: Glitchbit
Release Date: July 2018
Billed by the developer as the “world’s first drinkcade,” Tipsy Raccoons makes its name through a unique novelty within the credits system. Instead of inserting a coin to buy a play, each player inserts a drink into one of the patented cupholders to start the game. From there, up to four players are treated to dozens of quirky mini-games and trivia questions. While there are already plenty of mini-games to play right now, even more will be coming regularly through free online updates.
Tipsy Raccoons excels as a simple drinking/party game. With just a joystick and a single button, it’s not hard to jump right into the action. And like any good drinking game, the losers take a sip after each round. Even with this strong focus on beverages, Tipsy Raccoons does still feature a cash mode for more traditional arcade venues. If you’re looking for a neat gimmick and competitive fun with friends, Tipsy Raccoons is the game for you.
5. Rashlander
Developer: RyGuyGames
Publisher: Griffin Aerotech
Release Date: July 2018
After Skycurser, fans were eagerly awaiting the next title to grace the Airframe platform. Luckily for us, it was a good one. Created by Ryan Davis, Rashlander is a gravity-based, lander-style title in which players must avoid asteroids and manage their fuel. According to the official press release, the title takes heavy inspiration from classics like Lunar Lander and Asteroids, as well as modern indie hits like Downwell and Spelunky. Regardless, the game stills expresses its own unique identity. And compared to other arcade games, there’s a whopping load of depth to be found.
Rashlander is a phenomenal single-player experience. Those who love to learn games inside and out will revel in exploring the five stages, each filled with hidden content. The joy of discovery is compounded by dense upgrade systems, secret paths, game-altering time travel, and a high skill ceiling. Beyond the excellent core mechanics, Rashlander is also a real treat for the senses. The crisp, eye-popping pixel art and lively chiptune soundtrack make for a good time. If you aren’t as enamored by multiplayer and want some one-on-one time with your games, Rashlander is the title for you.
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