12 Unbelievable Indie Games That Deserved Your Attention In 2013

7. Shelter (PC)

Continuing the family theme of 2013, Shelter saw you take over the role of a mother badger, forced to look after her cubs as they move from one den to another. Another game that, initially, seems to have a confusing and alien concept, but another that ultimately leads to a fulfilling and emotional end that is well worth the investment it asks of you. The journey to and from homes takes place over a number of levels and environments, with different challenges facing the mother as you continue onwards. At no point are you allowed to let your eye off the ball in Shelter: not only do you have to worry about keeping your cubs fed, you're also at constant risk of them either getting lost or being picked off by a bird of prey. Later levels add even more dangers to your mission, which at times can leave you feeling the difficulty curve is a little overdone; whilst the environment is stunning, you can be left to wander about far too much without any real obvious goal, making your protection job that little bit too difficult to handle in the circumstances. Much like some of the other games on this list, critics have pointed out that Shelter ran a little too short for their liking, particularly when it comes to needing an emotional bond with the characters involved. However, in comparison with Brothers - where death is stated from the very beginning - it is the charged threat of loss that makes you feel your role is more important and, therefore worthwhile.