The Best Indie Games of 2026 (So Far)

In this week's episode of The Game Informer Show, the crew highlights the best indie games of 2026 so far. No, this isn't an exhaustive list, but after listening, you'll likely have several new video game recommendations to play. Highlights include The Mermaid Mask, Into The Grid, Super Battle Golf, and Helix: Descent N Ascent. Are there a couple of games that are technically not indie on this list? Yes, but they embody the spirit of small games made by smaller teams. 
 
The Game Informer Show is a weekly podcast covering the video game industry. Join us every Friday for chats about video game reviews, news, and exclusive reveals alongside Game Informer staff and special guests from around the industry.

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Watch the video version: YouTube

Follow our hosts online:

• Alex Van Aken (@itsVanAken)
• Marcus Stewart (@MarcusStewart7)
• Wesley LeBlanc (@WesleyLeBlanc)

Jump ahead using these timestamps:

• 00:00 – Intro
• 03:15 – Best Indie Games of 2026
• 54:35 – Small Teams, Big Potential (Upcoming Indie Games)
• 58:18 - Ad Break
• 58:19 - Scarlet Deer Inn (Adventure Game Made of Embroidery)
• 01:06:00 - Helix: Descent N Ascent (Monochrome 2D Puzzler)
• 01:11:00 - Listener Questions