Abstract:

Independent (“indie”) video games are often framed as a reprieve from the constraints of mainstream, corporate-driven development, with claims that creative freedom enables greater experimentation and innovation. This study evaluates that assumption through a mixed-methods analysis of indie titles released between 2018 and 2025, combining quantitative performance metrics with qualitative design assessments. The results indicate that most indie games do not provide a meaningful reprieve from broader industry issues: many exhibit limited design cohesion, low technical polish, and minimal innovation, often reflecting gaps in developer experience and resources. Additionally, market saturation significantly hinders discoverability, making it difficult for consumers to identify high-quality titles. While a small subset of indie games demonstrates exceptional creativity, the overall findings suggest that independence alone does not reliably produce better or more innovative outcomes.

(https://xoxohth.com/thread.php?thread_id=5847378&forum_id=2#49754705)