October 5, 2023
As we usually state, esports has become a massive industry, with games like League of Legends, Dota 2, and Counter-Strike dominating the scene. But did you know there are lesser-known indie games out there with or trying to build competitive scenes? Even if these games don’t have a full production competitive scene, they’re fun to play with friends or against others on the Internet.
Awesomenauts
Let’s start with Awesomenauts, a game that mixes 2D platforming with intense team-based battles. In Awesomenauts, you choose from a roster of quirky characters, each with unique abilities and playstyles. The goal? To destroy the enemy’s base while defending your own.
What makes Awesomenauts stand out is its accessibility. The controls are easy to grasp, making it a perfect entry point for newcomers. Plus, the charming and colorful graphics add to the game’s appeal.
Competitive play in Awesomenauts is all about teamwork and strategy. Teams of three face off in fast-paced battles where communication and coordination are key. Awesomenauts has a role for you whether you like lane pushing, map control, or epic team skirmishes.
The community organizes tournaments and events from time to time. So, if you’re looking for a free-to-play indie game with a competitive edge that doesn’t require hours of practice, Awesomenauts might be your next go-to game.
Deceive Inc.
If you’re a fan of stealth and strategy, Deceive Inc. is the indie game for you. In this multiplayer espionage game, you take on the role of an undercover agent working for a shadowy organization. Your mission? Infiltrate rival corporations, gather intel, and outsmart your opponents.
Deceive Inc. offers a unique blend of deception and deduction. Each player has a hidden role and secret objectives, making it crucial to bluff and mislead your opponents. You have to be the best NPC on the map.
The game’s mechanics are straightforward, with easy-to-understand rules that anyone can pick up. However, mastering the art of deception takes time and practice. As you play more matches, you’ll find the best character for your playstyle, learn to read your opponents, anticipate their moves, and make the right decisions.
The game’s small but with a steady and dedicated community that ensures that you’ll find like-minded players to compete against.
So, if you enjoy mind games and strategy, Deceive Inc. is a hidden gem worth exploring.
Omega Strikers
Omega Strikers is a fast-paced, top-down 3v3 game of air hockey with a twist. It has a diverse hero roster each with unique abilities – some deliver powerful kicks, and others require more strategic thinking. Learning each character’s abilities takes some time, but here lies the game’s enchantment.
Once you’ve found the right hero for you, it’s time to choose your role: scorer or defender. Some heroes are better at a certain role, but you’ll figure it out and be ready for competitive play in no time.
If you like what you read, here’s some good news – Omega Strikers is absolutely free. While you won’t have fancy cosmetics without spending money, the game is still really enjoyable for free.
The one problem with the free-to-play setup is the currency system. Menus can be messy and confusing in general, especially when you’re just starting.
Omega Strikers’ vibrant visuals and explosive action make it a really fun experience, and it’s a game that can be enjoyed both with friends and competitively. So don’t hesitate to give it a try.
Conclusion: Indie Games with Competitive Flare
In the industry of esports, it’s easy to get caught up in the frenzy of big-name titles. However, it’s essential to remember that there are hidden gems that offer competitive scenes that can be an even better fit for you.
These indie titles may not have the same level of recognition, but they make up for it with accessibility, unique gameplay mechanics, and dedicated communities. So, if you’re looking to explore something new in the world of competitive gaming, give these lesser-known games a try, they’re all available on Steam, and we’ve mentioned two that are free to play. Who knows? You might just discover your next gaming obsession.