In the world of gaming, it’s easy to get caught up in the hype surrounding the latest and greatest releases. However, with the average cost of a new game hovering around $60, it’s not always feasible to splurge on every title that catches our eye.
Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent games that can be had for a fraction of the cost. From indie darlings to cult classics, these budget-friendly games offer a wealth of entertainment value without breaking the bank.
1. Celeste
If you’re a fan of challenging platformers, you owe it to yourself to check out Celeste. This critically-acclaimed game follows Madeline as she climbs a treacherous mountain, facing down her own demons and learning to push past her limits. With its tight controls and thought-provoking narrative, Celeste is a must-play for anyone looking for a game that will test their skills.
Price: $9.99
2. Stardew Valley
For a more relaxing gaming experience, look no further than Stardew Valley. This charming farming simulation game allows you to build your own life in a quaint rural town, complete with fishing, mining, and romance options. With its addictive gameplay and whimsical visuals, Stardew Valley is the perfect game to unwind with.
Price: $13.99
3. Hyper Light Drifter
This beautifully-designed action game follows a mysterious drifter as he explores a hauntingly-beautiful world, solving puzzles and fighting off enemies along the way. With its stunning visuals and addictive gameplay, Hyper Light Drifter is a must-play for fans of games like The Legend of Zelda.
Price: $19.99
4. The Binding of Isaac
In this roguelike shooter, you play as Isaac, a young boy fleeing his deranged mother with a bag of guns and a heart full of rage. With its procedurally-generated levels and endless replayability, The Binding of Isaac is a game that will keep you coming back for more.
Price: $4.99
5. FTL: Faster Than Light
FTL is a space-based roguelike that challenges you to navigate a procedurally-generated galaxy, managing resources and making tough decisions to keep your crew alive. With its addictive gameplay and high replay value, FTL is a game that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Price: $9.99
6. Papers, Please
In this unique puzzle game, you play as a border control officer tasked with processing a constant stream of travelers. With its clever gameplay and darkly-humorous writing, Papers, Please is a game that will keep you entertained for hours.
Price: $9.99
7. The Swapper
This thought-provoking puzzle game follows a scientist as she explores a deserted space station, using a device that allows her to create clones and solve complex puzzles. With its clever gameplay and atmospheric soundtrack, The Swapper is a game that will keep you thinking long after the credits roll.
Price: $9.99
8. The Infectious Madness of Doctor Dekker
In this FMV (full-motion video) game, you play as a psychiatrist tasked with solving a murder mystery. With its engaging storyline and branching narrative, The Infectious Madness of Doctor Dekker is a game that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Price: $19.99
9. The Talos Principle
This first-person puzzle game challenges you to navigate a series of increasingly complex puzzles, using your wits and creativity to solve each challenge. With its thought-provoking narrative and stunning visuals, The Talos Principle is a game that will keep you entertained for hours.
Price: $19.99
10. Braid
This beautifully-designed platformer challenges you to navigate a series of increasingly complex levels, using time manipulation to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles. With its stunning visuals and addictive gameplay, Braid is a game that will keep you coming back for more.
Price: $9.99
Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, these budget-friendly games offer a wealth of entertainment value without breaking the bank. So why not give one (or two, or three…) a try? Your wallet – and your gaming schedule – will thank you.