20 Best Indie Games Of The Decade

13. Firewatch

This decade birthed the "walking sim" genre - a label initially created to spread derision and insult, but it gave us a whole new way to play, elevating the medium tenfold when it came to direct storytelling.

By removing overt game mechanics like shooting or platforming; instead focusing on conversations, environment-scanning or interaction, the genre became immediately immersive, putting you in the shoes of various characters with problems unrelated to combat or engagement.

In Firewatch's case, developers Campo Santo (formed from ex-Telltale staffers after season 1 of The Walking Dead), dove into a far more individualistic tale. One Henry takes a job watching over the forestation of Wyoming after tragic circumstances befall his relationship back home, and it's up to you just how much he then chooses to confide in fellow "firewatcher" Delilah, or simply enjoys the scenery.

Far more things happen that frame a wider narrative around the importance of taking time away from the stresses of life, and where your priorities lie when things get tough. All told though, Firewatch is a purposeful, powerful story it might take you a handful of playthroughs to fully explore.