With Steam Next Fest back in full swing this October, gamers have a golden opportunity to try out some exciting indie demos before they hit the shelves. From quirky puzzle games to intense roguelikes, there’s something for everyone to get stuck into. If you’re looking to explore some of the standout titles, we’ve handpicked 10 games that caught our eye during this Next Fest. Let’s dive in!
Our 10 Steam Next Fest must plays
Aaero2
- Release Date: Q4 2024 (Out now on Xbox!)
- Genre: Rhythm, On-Rails Shooter, Twin-Stick Shooter
- Demo: Play on Steam
Aaero2 is a high-energy rhythm game where you trace ribbons of light to release the energy in the music as you fly through alien worlds. The Monstercat soundtrack adds to the intensity, creating an experience that’s sure to immerse players in a stunning audiovisual journey.
Ascending Inferno
- Release Date: 28 October 2024
- Genre: Precision Platformer, Foddian Soccer, 2.5D
- Demo: Play on Steam
In Ascending Inferno, you play as a recently deceased soccer player, damned to Hell, and you’ll have to dribble, kick, and jump your way through a world filled with rage-inducing platforming challenges. With beautiful visuals and punishing gameplay, this one’s perfect for fans of precision platformers.
Axe Ghost
- Release Date: Q4 2024
- Genre: Turn-Based, Card Game, Score Attack
- Demo: Play on Steam
In Axe Ghost, you’ll survive an onslaught of monsters in a tiny, turn-based challenge where every decision counts. The demo is almost the full game, offering a tantalising glimpse into a strategic world packed with action. If you’re a fan of turn-based score attacks, this is a must-try.
Burden of Command
- Release Date: TBA (New demo available during Steam Next Fest)
- Genre: Tactical Leadership RPG
- Demo: Play on Steam
Burden of Command places you in the role of a World War II company captain, where tactical leadership intertwines with emotional decision-making. It’s not just about battlefield strategy, but also about managing the psychological well-being of your soldiers as you lead them through intense, historically accurate battles. With permanent consequences for your decisions and a focus on trust and respect, Burden of Command offers a gripping narrative-driven RPG experience that tests both your tactical prowess and emotional intelligence. Be sure to check out the new demo during Steam Next Fest!
Kill the Shadow
- Release Date: TBA
- Genre: Detective Noir, RPG
- Demo: Play on Steam
In Kill the Shadow, you investigate strange murders as Detective Lucas in a dark, narrative-driven thriller. The demo showcases new settings, characters, and gameplay, offering an immersive detective experience steeped in suspense and intrigue.
Mistery
- Release Date: Q1 2025
- Genre: Co-op Survival, Strategy, Social Deduction
- Demo: Play on Steam
This multiplayer social deduction game mixes survival with strategy. You’ll work with teammates to gather materials and survive monster threats, but beware of “Alternates”—teammates who can secretly turn into monsters and attack you. What makes Mistery unique is its limited-time demo, available only during specific evening hours.
POPUCOM
- Release Date: TBA
- Genre: Co-op Puzzle Adventure
- Demo: Play on Steam
POPUCOM is a colourful co-op puzzle adventure where you team up with friends to pop brightly coloured Pomus. With cross-play support and up to four-player co-op, it’s a fantastic option for a fun multiplayer experience.
Shady Knight
- Release Date: Out now!
- Genre: Hack & Slash, First-Person Platformer
- Demo: Play on Steam
For those who love fast-paced, skill-based action, Shady Knight delivers intense first-person combat and platforming. Master wall-kicks, slides, and chain attacks to battle your way through this fluid, action-packed experience.
Spilled!
- Release Date: TBA
- Genre: Cozy Simulation, Clean-Up Game
- Demo: Play on Steam
If you’re looking for something more laid-back during Steam Next Fest, Spilled! offers a calming experience where you clean up oil spills and watch your efforts create tangible improvements in the environment. It’s a satisfying, cosy game that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Spirit of the North 2
- Release date: TBA
- Genre: Adventure, Puzzle, Exploration
- Demo: Available on Steam
Spirit of the North 2 invites players on a magical journey to restore joy and magic to a desolate world ravaged by the dark shaman Grimnir. Playing as a fox accompanied by a raven companion, you’ll traverse snow-capped mountains, ancient crypts filled with puzzles, and tranquil meadows. With stunning Unreal Engine 5 graphics, character customisation, and new unlockable skills, Spirit of the North 2 promises an enchanting sequel. Don’t miss the fox-tastic demo in Steam Next Fest and catch the original game on sale with 90% off starting October 17.
And there you have it, ten of our top picks that you can check out during Steam Next Fest. Have any of these games piqued your interest? Maybe you’ve checked one out that we’ve not mentioned. Either way, let us know in the comments below which games you’re looking forward to diving into, and which ones we should keep our eyes on.
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