Offbeat Video Game Roundup
By Chris Benson

Remember Fortnite, that little game we wrote a whole article about last issue? What about Minecraft? Grand Theft Auto V? If you know video games at all, you’ve heard of these juggernauts. Giant titles with AAA budgets and well-oiled marketing machines dominate gaming news and discussion, leaving little room for lesser-known games. Here are some offbeat and unique games that we think deserve more time in the spotlight.

Dreams

Developer Media Molecule followed up a string of creativity-focused, highly-imaginative games with their most ambitious title yet, Dreams. More of a platform than a true game (though it comes with a charming story mode), it fosters and celebrates creativity in an astounding number of ways. With the in-game tools, you can animate a movie, compose a piece of music, or even make a full-length video game. Dreams is a masterclass of vibrant game design and unlimited possibility that we hope will continue to grow and build its library for years to come. This is one dream you won’t want to wake up from.

Outer Wilds

Outer Wilds is an intensely imaginative work with a focus on discovery and storytelling that elevate it beyond your average open-world adventure game. There is a real feeling of awe and mystery with you as you explore the hand-crafted solar system to reveal its secrets. Well-worn puzzle elements and a lack of guidance temper the experience a bit, but if you have the patience to immerse yourself in the Outer Wilds, you’re unlikely to be disappointed.

Untitled Goose Game

Simply put, this is the best goose-based troublemaking game we’ve ever played (read: the only one). In this modestly-titled adventure, you play the role of a sneaky, prank-loving goose who is loosed upon the unsuspecting townsfolk of an idyllic village. You’ll waddle around town, sneak into backyards, steal a bit, honk at everyone you meet, and make all kinds of lighthearted mischief. The game is delightful, with endearing animations and sound design, and chock-full of fun, despite its shorter length. We think it’s worth a gander (Ha!).

Ori and the Will of the Wisps

The sequel to Ori and the Blind Forest, one of the most beautiful critical successes for the Xbox One, Ori and the Will of the Wisps promises to be just as exciting, moving, and fun to play as the first. You’ll again be playing the titular Ori, exploring new lands, mastering new abilities, and meeting adorable new characters. Impossibly enough, the game looks even more impressively lavish this time around, with an increased level of detail and enough stunning art to fill a museum.

With so many video games released each year, it can be daunting to know which titles are worthy of your limited time. We think these are. They may be markedly different from the typical shooters and action titles filling store shelves, but each of these games is a compelling and worthwhile addition to any gamer’s library.