Worldwide, more people are gaming than ever before. Thanks to a rise in casual mobile titles, people who never considered themselves gamers are now exploring titles that meet their interests. And with more players on the hunt for new games, developers both great and small are scrambling to release the next big hit.
Still, with so many projects launched each year, not even publications like PC Gamer and Game Informer can keep up. Throw in a growing number of indie developers and the waters have never been muddier. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of gems waiting to be uncovered.
Take a few shortcuts with our list of some of 2022’s most underrated games. Let’s start with an overlooked classic: slots.
Enjoy a Perennial Favorite with Online Slots
Casino gaming remains one of the world’s most-played genres. Specifically, casino gamers gravitate toward slots online, which is partly because the games are short-form, casual, and incredibly exciting. Developers pore resources into licensing games from top developers as well as creating their own unique titles that can’t be found elsewhere. Along with exciting bonus rounds, players keep a lookout for new games in their preferred theme, from mythology to fashion to sci-fi.
Just Relax with Onde
This indie release combines abstract and stunning landscapes with ethereal and ambient music. The result is one of the most relaxing games on the market this year. For anyone looking to enjoy a few casual puzzles while being immersed in a creative and unique atmosphere, then look no further. You’ll be surfing the soundwave with Onde in no time.
Step Behind the Curtain with Not For Broadcast
Not For Broadcast is easily one of gaming’s most creative releases in the last five years. Some players might also find it a bit stressful, as they’re asked to sit behind the curtain and hand-select which pieces of media are broadcasted. Officially dubbed a ‘propaganda simulator’, players are asked to maintain a position of power—but they’ll have to decide what to do with that power as the game advances. Sound a bit intense? While it’s certainly not for the faint of heart, Not For Broadcast includes plenty of dark comedy to keep things… sort of light.
Jump into the Future with Neon White
This first-person action game might not be considered an underrated hit; in fact, since it was released in June, the game has gained international attention. In this title, players step into the shoes of a deadly assassin as he attempts to clear level after level of demons in record time. The premise itself might not be ground-breaking, but the game’s mechanics and animation are easily some of the most innovative of the year.
Tackle the Text with Citizen Sleeper
Here is one of 2022’s most involved new releases. Do you like to dive into the weeds and comb through the details? You’ll need all of your critical thinking skills if you plan on navigating out of a lawless space station deep in the unexplored cosmos. With only text-based decisions for players to work with, they have to decide on a tactic to help them escape. This might involve things like forming alliances, laboring time away, or even disappearing into the crowd in hopes of a perfect opportunity for escape.
Rage Against the Machine with tERRORbane
Take another step behind the curtain with tERRORbane. This game includes plenty of callbacks to some of gaming’s biggest characters and influences, while also putting players in an endlessly entertaining world. How do you advance? Start breaking things. What about all those bugs? They’re allies. Dubbed a comedic adventure and one of the most genre-defying games released this year, don’t try to wrap your mind around this new title, just jump in and start having fun.
