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July 2, 2023

Andreas Betsche

Best Indie Games from Southeast Asia You Shouldn’t Miss

July 2, 2023 | Andreas Betsche

Whether you’re an avid gamer or appreciate artistry and innovation, Southeast Asia has become a vibrant hub for independent game development. In this article, we will introduce you to the best indie games from Southeast Asia that you shouldn’t miss.

These are the Best Indie Games from Southeast Asia

From a heartwarming Indonesian adventure to a chilling Singaporean ghost story, these games highlight the rich cultural diversity and talent of Southeast Asian developers.

Let’s dive into Southeast Asian indie gaming and explore the hidden gems waiting to be discovered!

A Space for the Unbound (Indonesia)

Embark on a nostalgic adventure set in a small Indonesian town during the 1990s. A Space for the Unbound combines point-and-click gameplay, visual novel storytelling, and exploration. Uncover the mysteries of a parallel world while experiencing a heartwarming story about friendship and young love.

Available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, and Steam.

Ghostlore (Singapore)

Immerse yourself in Singapore’s rich folklore and supernatural tales through this haunting adventure game. Ghostlore merges traditional Southeast Asian mythology with modern action RPG elements, offering a unique and captivating experience. Solve puzzles, battle ghostly entities, and navigate a chilling narrative set against the backdrop of Singapore’s urban legends.

Available on Steam.

Kabaret (Malaysia)

Step into the captivating world of Kabaret, a visual novel that explores the forgotten human pasts of monsters. Play as cursed boy Jebat and break his curse by hosting tea ceremonies for over 20 creatures inspired by Southeast Asian folklore. Immerse yourself in stunning hand-drawn art, traditional music, and thrilling mini-games. Your choices shape Jebat’s destiny in this culturally rich experience.

Available on Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, and Steam.

Timelie (Thailand)

Challenge your perception of time and control in Timelie, a unique puzzle game set in a beautiful abstract world. Guide a young girl and her cat through intricate levels, manipulating time to coordinate their movements and solve puzzles. Experience the thrill of rewinding and fast-forwarding actions to overcome challenges.

Available on Nintendo Switch and Steam.

Hatchwell (Philippines)

Help townspeople overcome disruptive events in Hatchwell and embark on an adventure to find valuable items. Customize your character, choose from 12 cute pets, and explore seven unique parts of town. Discover hidden paths, treasure chests filled with special abilities, and witness dynamic changes in Hatchwell. Optional items and accessories are available to enhance your experience.

Available on Nintendo Switch and Steam.

Blood Field – Cỏ Máu (Vietnam)

Embark on a bone-chilling journey through a world influenced by Vietnamese culture, myths, and folklore. Blood Field – Cỏ Máu is a first-person horror experience that will leave you feeling haunted as you navigate spooky environments and uncover the secrets within.

Available on Steam.

Unveiling the Best Indie Games from Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia’s indie game development scene is a testament to the region’s creativity and talent. These Best Indie Games from Southeast Asia exemplify the remarkable contributions of Southeast Asian developers to the gaming industry.

Whether you enjoy platformers, RPGs, or thought-provoking narratives, the region’s hidden gems offer unforgettable gaming adventures. Immerse yourself in these captivating games and experience the artistry, innovation, and cultural richness they offer.


Andreas Betsche

Andreas Betsche founded Virtual SEA in early 2016 after researching Cambodian mobile games for his Master’s thesis. He has a background in Southeast Asia studies and has worked and lived in Cambodia, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Since he has been actively playing games since the early 90s, combing both worlds in Virtual SEA brought together both of his passions.

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