The second annual Triple-I Initiative Showcase featured more than 40 indie games — Here's every title showcased for Xbox and PC

As the launch date for independent game developers approaches, one of the biggest challenges they face is attracting attention to their game. There are limited numbers of journalists focusing on indie games, the market is already flooded, and we won’t even discuss the expense associated with having a trailer showcased at The Game Awards.

To tackle this ongoing battle, some prominent figures in independent gaming joined forces in 2024, initiating The Triple-I Initiative. They showcased trailers for upcoming indie games under the “Triple-I” label, produced by established developers and publishers known for hits such as Slay the Spire, Risk of Rain, and Palworld.

In April 2025, the coalition of independent developers repeated their successful Triple-I Initiative, this time bringing together a fresh group of developers and publishers to exhibit over 40 indie games. The event showcased world premieres, gameplay reveals, and promotions for release dates. Here’s a rundown of what was presented during the second annual Triple-Initiative showcase:

Neverway

As the analyst diving into the world of Neverway, I find myself captivated by its origins. Crafted by the same pixel artist who brought us the enchanting indie sensation, Celeste, this game isn’t a repeat of the usual cozy and colorful life sims and farming games we’re accustomed to. Instead, it offers a refreshingly darker, eerier twist on the genre, a departure that I believe was long overdue.

In Neverway, the main character, Fiona, chooses to rebuild her existence on a farm, but instead, she becomes an immortal messenger for a deceased deity. This game combines elements of horror, farming simulation, and action RPG genres. As you progress, you’ll encounter and potentially romance over ten distinct characters, each with their unique daily routines and story arcs.

Tend to your farm, create handmade items, cook delicious meals, and beautify your homestead, all the while as chaos envelops your life and an unsettling truth seeps into your existence. Quite a serene scene, isn’t it?

As of now, a release date for Neverway hasn’t been set, but it’s confirmed for Steam. Regardless, it’s already sitting atop my wishlist.

Deep Rock Galactic: Rogue Core

Deep Rock Galactic is an action-packed first-person shooter set in a universe where you and your three pals transform into daring space dwarves. Together, you fight off waves of extraterrestrial creatures while gathering treasures from the depths of mysterious caverns. This exciting game was launched in 2020 and has been a huge hit on both consoles and computers, indicating that a spin-off is imminent!

Ghost Ship Games unveiled a fresh trailer for Deep Rock Galactic: Rogue Core during the Triple-I Initiative presentation, offering us a sneak peek at the upcoming self-produced spin-off featuring our beloved rowdy dwarves as they embark on a new cooperative journey with a roguelike flavor. Each venture into the caves’ shadows will commence with each dwarf armed solely with rudimentary equipment.

To survive the relentless attack of extraterrestrial forces, you and your companions will need to collaborate on enhancing our weapons and skills as we advance. Strive to be the most lethal dwarf, or risk becoming a fallen one. Regardless of the outcome, prepare to gear up and jump back in when it’s all over.

Deep Rock Galactic’s expansion “Rogue Core” will debut in Early Access on Steam, though a console release is still to be announced. Recently, Ghost Ship Games provided an extensive 20-minute discussion following their presentation, offering more gameplay footage and insights from the development team.

Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor goes 1.0

In a recent announcement, Ghost Ship Publishing and Funday Games have shared that the initial spinoff of Deep Rock Galactic, titled Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor, will officially exit early access and launch in its full version on September 17, 2025. This single-player adaptation with similarities to Vampire Survivors was initially launched in February 2024.

Among the top games frequently played on the Steam Deck is Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor. Upon its release, you’ll be able to enjoy the 1.0 version not only on your computer but also on the handheld device. At present, it appears that there are no immediate plans for a console launch.

Tears of Metal Open Beta

If you adore Dynasty Warriors but crave a touch of Scottish flavor, then Tears of Metal could be right up your alley! This hack-and-slash roguelike allows you and your pals to battle through waves of adversaries, growing in power and uncovering the enigma surrounding the Dragon Meteor. Could it be the thrill you’ve been seeking?

You won’t have to wait much longer before you can begin creating your very own Scottish army and carve a path through the battlefield! The creators of Tears of Metal, an indie studio known as Paper Cult, have announced that the game’s first Open Beta will soon be available on Steam.

Sacrifire

As a tech-loving individual, I proudly shared that Pixelated Milk unveiled the launch timeline for SacriFire at the Triple-I Initiative event. This captivating pixel art RPG follows the journey of a young priest grappling with his belief amidst an imminent war between gods and demons. Gamers can anticipate playing SacriFire on consoles such as Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, starting from Quarter 1 of 2026!

Endless Legend 2

In simple terms, “Endless Legend 2,” created by AMPLITUDE Studios (renowned for Humankind and Endless Space) and distributed by Hooded Horse, is an upcoming strategy game on Steam’s Early Access platform this summer. Gamers will be given the opportunity to select a faction and restore a magical ocean world from the verge of destruction, all while partaking in colossal conflicts that span across entire planets.

Frostrail

If you’re seeking a merciless open-world survival first-person shooter, Frostrail could be your match. Set to launch on Steam Early Access in 2026, Frostrail combines the intensity of The Long Dark with the chilling horror of a Frostpunk-esque frozen wasteland. A relentless chill has swept over the once-powerful empire of Frostrail, and a deal between the Emperor and an enigmatic force known as the Void will have you racing to secure an armored train that stands as humanity’s final refuge in this icy, malevolent land.

Moonlighter 2

Moonlighter 2 is eagerly awaited as the sequel to the 2018 cozy roguelike shop-sim adventure game. In this installment, a young merchant named Will finds himself in another dimension, where he’ll have to utilize his skills – delving into dungeons for valuable treasures at night and selling those treasures to the locals during the day. Improve your sales tactics and negotiating skills to get top dollar for your items so you can reinvest in the local economy to buy better equipment.

Here comes Moonlighter 2: The Boundless Treasury, landing on Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms this summer! Excitingly, Xbox Game Pass members, you’ll get Moonlighter 2 as a perk on its release day!

Star Birds

Have you ever dreamt about owning an asteroid and constructing a charming base on its surface? If so, the upcoming game from the creators of Dorfromantik may be just what you’re looking for. Titled Star Birds, this game combines the calming experience of asteroid base-building with the dynamic challenge of resource management. Traverse through various asteroids (some of which appear rather suspicious) to mine essential minerals that will help you manufacture goods and cater to your feathered space companions.

A demo for Star Birds is coming to Steam in June.

Escape Simulator 2

In a recent announcement, Pine Studio unveiled the sequel to their top-selling escape room game, Escape Simulator 2. This new installment is brimming with complex puzzles and hidden treasures. Compared to its predecessor, Escape Simulator 2 boasts larger, more elaborate rooms, a richer backstory, and a refined room editor for crafting your own immersive escape room adventure.

Currently, you can find a preview for Escape Simulator 2 on Steam. As of now, Pine Studio has not disclosed any details about the game’s launch on consoles or a confirmed release date for Escape Simulator 2.

Outbound

As a tech-savvy individual, I can’t help but notice the allure of van life sweeping across social media platforms. The idea of embracing simplicity and freedom while living in a vintage bus has captured many hearts, and it seems only fitting that this concept finds its way into the gaming world as well. Outbound, a creation from Square Glade Games (the creators of Above Snakes), offers gamers an opportunity to design their own mobile abode on wheels and embark on an off-grid adventure, complete with workstations powered by renewable energy sources.

Embark on thrilling caravan journeys through a colorful, bustling universe alongside your top three companions in this heartwarming, open-world farming and exploration simulation game. The journey begins with Outbound’s Closed Alpha launch on April 14, with Beta releases scheduled later in the year. If you’re interested in contributing to the game’s development by providing feedback, join our Discord community!

Enshrouded – Thralls of Twilight

Wrapped up is Keen Games’ survival crafting simulation, boasting action RPG-style combat. At present, it can be found on Steam in Early Access. Even though it’s not yet fully completed, the game has amassed over 4 million players and garnered more than 67,000 positive reviews as of this writing.

Under the Triple-I project, Keen Games unveiled a planned May launch for their update called “Thralls of Twilight” (Enshrouded update). Unfortunately, specifics about this upcoming release have yet to be disclosed fully.

Timberborn

You know what city builders need more of? Beavers on ziplines.

According to Mechanistry’s perspective, it appears that they are planning an update for their city-builder game, Timberborn, which aligns with their beliefs. Similar to Enshrouded, Timberborn is still in the early access stage on PC platforms such as Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG, having been there since 2021.

In simple terms, despite spending a long time in Early Access, the creators haven’t stopped enriching the world of Timberborn, a place inhabited only by lumberpunk beavers. On May 8th, the 7th update for Timberborn will roll out, introducing features for ziplines and tubeways.

BlazBlue Entropy Effect x Dead Cells

Dead Cells is once again crossing over with another game, this time joining the BlazBlue universe. The crossover event is set to take place later this summer. Additionally, a new multiplayer mode will be introduced for BlazBlue, but it will only support local play, so your online friends won’t be able to join in on the fun.

OPUS: Prism Peak

SIGONO Incorporated and Shueisha Games have revealed the launch period for their upcoming narrative journey titled OPUS: Prism Peak. Step into the worldview of a fatigued photographer, equipped with a reliable vintage camera, and delve into a dreamlike dimension that borders on the surreal.

This captivating, well-illustrated journey is filled with enough enigma and fascination to make you eagerly return for more discoveries, reminiscent of a Studio Ghibli film.

OPUS: Prism Peak launches on Steam this fall.

The Alters

During the Triple-I Initiative showcase, we were treated to a trailer revealing the release date for one of the summer’s most eagerly awaited indie games – The Alters by 11 bit studios. This captivating sci-fi strategy game will make its debut on PC, consoles, and Xbox Game Pass simultaneously on June 13, leaving us all filled with excitement!

Speedrunners 2

This year, Speedrunners 2: King of Speed, a collaboration between Fair Play Labs and TinyBuild, is set to return to your computer screens (with console versions coming in 2026).

In this action-packed, multiplayer platformer game, up to eight competitors – that’s twice as many as its previous version – face off on a side-scrolling 2D arena. Their goal is to swiftly learn the map layout, use shortcuts strategically, and time their pick-ups perfectly in order to outrun each other.

Those who can’t keep up are gradually knocked off the screen until only one runner remains.

Over the Hill

Funselektor Labs Incorporated, the creators known for the stunningly beautiful Art of Rally, have returned with yet another automobile-focused journey that’s so visually appealing it might be considered overly charming.

Step into a journey that transports you to the bygone era of off-roading greatness, where adventurers can traverse the wilderness either solo or with companions. The landscapes, inspired by real-world locales, invite exploration and discovery. Classic vehicles from the ’60s to the ’80s are at your disposal, adding a dose of nostalgia to the experience.

During the showcase, the trailer functioned as a sneak peek into the gameplay of Over the Hill, a title that currently lacks an official release date. Following the broadcast, developers Funselektor Labs and Strelka Games offered further insights about Over the Hill in a post-show discussion.

Super Fantasy Kingdom

Enthusiasts of city-building games were undoubtedly satiated by the Triple-I Initiative this year. In the recent showcase, Super Fantasy Games and Hooded Horse unveiled a planned Q3 2025 release for their upcoming roguelite city builder, Super Fantasy Kingdom.

Experience the charm of a retro-style city-building game where you construct your realm, oversee resources, and prepare a formidable force to safeguard your subjects from waves of terrifying beasts. Strategically arrange your defenses using diverse units such as vampire sentinels, ice priestesses, dinosaurs, and more on Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG come this year’s end.

X4: Foundations Diplomacy Update

X4: Foundations by Egosoft offers a strategy simulation experience for those yearning to traverse a colossal, ever-changing, and meticulously simulated space sandbox, immersing themselves in awe-inspiring space conflicts. This summer, it’s set to receive a significant update that will introduce innovative strategic aspects and bolster diplomatic gameplay.

Sorry console fans, this one remains PC only via Steam and GOG.

Rematch

In the world of sports games, it’s not common to find new challengers, as it’s usually the big publishers like EA that dominate with titles such as FC25 and Madden NFL. However, Rematch offers a unique twist on football (soccer), allowing the player to control a single athlete on the field in 5v5 games using a third-person camera viewpoint.

When Rematch is released for PC and consoles in June, you can enjoy playing either solo or online in competitively-oriented game modes that are fortified with seasonal updates.

IKUMA – The Frozen Compass

Mooneye Studios, creators of Lost Ember, are back with another heart-tugging narrative adventure. They have unveiled Ikuma: The Frozen Compass, a tale centered around Sam, a young cabin boy who finds himself stranded in the Arctic with only his loyal canine companion, Ellie.

Ikuma allows players to switch between characters Sam and Ellie as they traverse the icy wilderness, either solo or with a companion on the same screen. Each character possesses unique abilities, and their combined skills are essential for survival and unraveling the enigma surrounding the previous expedition.

2026 will see the arrival of Ikuma: The Frozen Compass on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Steam, and the Epic Games Store.

Shapez 2 Dimension Update

On June 2nd, Tobspr Games and Gamirror Games announced an upcoming update for their early access factory building game, Shapez 2. This new version will feature the capability to create multi-level 3D factories, as well as improvements in train mechanics. Additionally, a variety of enhancements aimed at improving the overall gaming experience are set to be released alongside this update, which will go live on Steam next month.

V Rising – Invaders of Oakveil

In a fresh update for the gothic, open-world vampire survival RPG V Rising, players on PlayStation 5 and Steam get access to exciting new content titled “The Invaders of Oakveil”. This update brings a new challenge in the form of the Venom Blades, a dangerous faction that serves under the Serpent Queen Megara. If you’re looking to eliminate these latest adversaries, prepare for a journey to the polluted forest region of Oakveil!

Necesse – The Forgotten Depths

In the year 2019, Fair Games unveiled their procedurally generated crafting and survival game titled Necesse. Contrary to the common belief that early access titles might be forgotten over time, The Forgotten Depths update, launched recently on Steam, proves otherwise. This new update introduces a fresh biome for players to delve into, significant modifications in the game’s economic system, and additional features as well.

Duskfade

As an analyst, I’m thrilled to share that, in collaboration with Fireshrine Games (renowned for titles like Core Keeper and Reka), we, at Weird Beluga, have introduced our first project – Duskfade. This captivating 3D action-adventure game is reminiscent of classic titles, offering players the chance to experience dynamic platforming and swift combat. The narrative revolves around a young hero named Zirian, who embarks on a journey to rescue his sister and mend the torn fabric of time within an enchanting world that leaves one in awe.

Duskfade is coming to consoles and Steam in 2026.

Morbid Metal

If you’re in the mood for relaxed and heartwarming games occasionally, there are times when you crave some good ol’ slice-and-dice action. That’s where Morbid Metal, a thrilling hack-and-slash roguelite from Screen Juice, comes into play. This game will be available on Steam this summer in early access.

The Eternal Life of Goldman

As a researcher delving into the world of video games, let me assure you that The Eternal Life of Goldman, with its captivating hand-drawn aesthetics, is not just visually appealing but also a deeply immersive dark adventure. Developed by the skilled minds at Weappy Studio and published by THQ Nordic, this vibrant platformer is richly woven with tales from folklore and mythology. Every corner of this game showcases an exquisite level of detail, making it a must-play for those who appreciate intricate storytelling and stunning visuals.

In Goldman’s hand-animated game, each room and landscape differs distinctly, ensuring a one-of-a-kind experience. From the characters to the special particle effects, everything in this game is uniquely crafted.

This year, you’ll be able to obtain “The Eternal Life of Goldman” for platforms like Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch.

CloverPit

Developers Panik Arcade and publishers Future Friends Games were curious about the outcome of a romantic union between Balatro and Buckshot Roulette. Meet CloverPit, a unique blend of roguelite slot machine horror games, often referred to as a “perpetual financial stress simulator.” It certainly sounds terrifying!

A playable demo for CloverPit can be found on Steam right now, but there’s been no word yet on when it might release or if it will come to consoles.

Into the Fire

Starward Industries, creators of the chilling sci-fi journey The Invisible, swiftly moved on to craft another challenging journey through a desolate landscape. Their second project, titled Into the Fire, is an extraction survival game that takes place beneath the ominous shadow of a volcano, which conveniently erupts fire demons to ramp up the difficulty.

Delve into the world of “Into the Fire,” where gameplay tools are inspired by a blend of past and future aesthetics, providing players with innovative ways to combat the inferno. Discover the tales behind the blazing flames, rescue those in peril, and arm yourself with fire-extinguishing shotguns, as well as other craftable survival gear. Dive headfirst into “Into the Fire” when it releases on Steam in Early Access later this year.

No, I’m not a Human

At the Triple I Initiative showcase, Developer Trioskaz and Publisher Critical Reflex introduced No, I am not Human – an unnerving horror game where not every guest knocking at your door should be welcomed. The players will face the challenge of deciding whom to trust and invite into their home. However, if by mistake a Visitor slips in, you might find yourself compelled to take drastic measures to ensure survival for both yourself and the other guests throughout the night.

No, I am not Human is coming to Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam this fall.

VOID/BREAKER

Stubby Games, a solo developer’s project, launched its sophomoric game titled “Endless Fight or Die: Sci-Fi War,” which is an ambitious blend of roguelite and first-person shooter genres, set in a sci-fi universe. In this game, players engage in relentless battles against machine armies and a hostile AI, where the gameplay loop involves fighting, dying, and starting over endlessly.

The game VOID/BREAKER is expected to offer quick and smooth action, along with destructible settings upon its release on Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam. Early playtests of the game garnered a 93.3% satisfaction rating from players who previewed it, making it a title worth watching.

Katana ZERO is still getting free DLC (eventually)

In simple terms, the game “Katana ZERO” by Askiisoft and Devolver Digital is often hailed as an icon in the indie gaming world, much like Dead Cells. Interestingly, characters from Katana ZERO have made appearances in other games before, a phenomenon known as crossovers. Yet, enthusiasts of this game have longed for more of its cyberpunk-styled, neo-noir platforming action since its release in 2019, and these crossovers have been their only source of satisfaction so far.

It turns out that the free downloadable content (DLC) for Katana ZERO had been announced years ago, with Limited Run Games confirming in 2020 that they were working on a physical version of it. Patience has been key for most fans, though some may have stopped waiting and thought the DLC had been abandoned.

Despite initial assumptions, the Katana ZERO DLC remains active, as suggested in a delightful trailer presented at the Triple-I Initiative event. It’s set to arrive on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and Steam at some point in the future, though an exact release date hasn’t been announced yet. Some speculate it might coincide with Hollow Knight: Silksong’s release.

2025-05-05 12:57

The second annual Triple-I Initiative Showcase featured more than 40 indie games — Here’s every title showcased for Xbox and PC

EUR/USD to Explode? Trump Trade Shocks Incoming!