Indie Watch: CGMagazine’s Best Indie Game Selections (Jan–Mar 2025)

Welcome to the inaugural issue of Indie Watch, CGMagazine’s carefully selected guide to the most imaginative and engaging indie games that have launched over the past few months. Ranging from pixel art horror to warm roguelikes and story-rich journeys, this compilation highlights the variety and creativity that indie creators contribute to the gaming scene. Whether you’re in search of a quick game to enjoy or a rich narrative to delve into, these curated selections from January to March 2025 provide options for every type of gamer.

Highlighted Indie Titles

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist
– Developer: Binary Haze Interactive
– Platforms: PC, Switch, PS5, Xbox
– Release Date: January 22, 2025

As a spiritual sequel to Ender Lilies, Ender Magnolia is a somber 2D Metroidvania that fuses haunting melodies, smooth combat, and a touching storyline. Players gather and enhance Homunculi—sentient robotic allies—each possessing their own sorrowful tale. With undertones akin to Hollow Knight and Nier, this game is a must-try for those who appreciate atmospheric platforming.

Cuisineer
– Developer: BattleBrew Productions
– Platforms: PC, Switch, PS5, Xbox
– Release Date: January 28, 2025 (Xbox)

Cuisineer combines restaurant management with roguelike dungeon exploration. Step into the shoes of Pom, a budding chef determined to revive her family’s restaurant. Juggling meal preparation and combat with monsters for ingredients, Cuisineer delivers a cozy yet adrenaline-fueled adventure ideal for fans of titles like Moonlighter and Overcooked.

Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector
– Developer: Jump Over the Age
– Platforms: PC, Switch, PS5, Xbox
– Release Date: January 31, 2025

Following the success of the acclaimed Citizen Sleeper, its sequel broadens the narrative landscape with a new star system, enriched RPG mechanics, and a captivating story. Assemble a crew, embark on mercenary missions, and navigate the ethical dilemmas of a dystopian world. It’s a thought-provoking, text-rich journey that invites patience and exploration.

Urban Myth Dissolution Center
– Developer: Hakababunko Games
– Platforms: PC, Switch, PS5
– Release Date: February 12, 2025

This pixel-art horror visual novel merges investigative gameplay with supernatural tales. Unravel chilling urban myths, speak with witnesses, and discover the realities behind cursed artifacts. With its nostalgic art style and intricate storytelling, it’s an excellent choice for enthusiasts of eerie mysteries and visual novels.

Stories from Sol: The Gun-Dog
– Developer: Space Colony Studios
– Platforms: PC, Switch, PS5
– Release Date: February 19, 2025

A mecha-inspired visual novel with significant anime influences, Stories from Sol invites players on a post-war patrol ship. Featuring elements of romance, intrigue, and giant robots, it offers a character-driven narrative that will resonate with fans of Gundam and Macross.

Dominoid
– Developer: WanWan Games
– Platforms: PC (Itch.io)
– Release Date: Spring 2025

Offering a novel twist to puzzle games such as Tetris and Puyo Puyo, Dominoid challenges players with matching numbered tiles in 2×2 groups for combos. With customizable aesthetics and audio, it provides a stylish, captivating arcade experience that is easy to learn yet difficult to conquer.

Grimoire Groves
– Developer: Stardust
– Platforms: PC, Switch
– Release Date: March 4, 2025

This heartwarming roguelike twin-stick shooter reimagines the genre by emphasizing growth and life rather than destruction. Players command a young witch revitalizing an enchanted forest, using spells for nurturing rather than harm. With an art style reminiscent of Adventure Time and wholesome gameplay, Grimoire Groves stands out.

Secret Agent Wizard Boy and the International Crime Syndicate
– Developers: John & Evan Szymanski
– Platforms: PC, Switch
– Release Date: March 4, 2025

Balancing absurdity and charm, this narrative-focused sandbox game follows a wizard-turned-spy as he infiltrates a magical academy. Featuring physics-driven chaos and slapstick comedy, it can be considered a spiritual relative to Goat Simulator with a magical flair.

Wanderstop
– Developer: Ivy Road
– Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox
– Release Date: March 11, 2025

From the mind behind The Stanley Parable, Wanderstop is a contemplative tea shop simulator intertwined with existential narratives. As a retired warrior named Alta, players serve tea, reflect on life, and explore deeper themes of burnout and self-identity. It’s cozy, thoughtful, and quietly impactful.

Centum
– Developer: Hack The Publisher
– Platforms: PC, PS4/PS

Kaiju No. 8: Mission Recon – A Cinematic Summary with a New Perspective

As spring revitalizes the realm, it also stirs the beasts—at least in the universe of Kaiju No. 8. The eagerly awaited film Kaiju No. 8: Mission Recon is poised to debut in North American cinemas on April 13, 14, and 16, 2025. This film not only serves as an exhilarating summary of Season 1 but also offers a glimpse into the future of the franchise, showcasing a brand-new original episode titled Hoshina’s Day Off.

To commemorate the release, CGMagazine spoke with Landon Macdonald, the English voice actor for Sochiro Hoshina, about his journey with the series, what attendees can anticipate from the film, and what awaits in Season 2.

A Monster-Sized Summary with a Slice-of-Life Flair

Kaiju No. 8: Mission Recon transcends the traditional recap film. While it revisits essential events from Season 1, it also introduces a fresh, unseen episode that infuses a humorous touch into the intense kaiju mayhem. Titled Hoshina’s Day Off, the episode chronicles an unusual day of relaxation for the typically battle-ready Defense Force. Reno Ishikawa, at a loss for how to utilize his free time, decides to follow Hoshina alongside fellow recruit Iharu Furuhashi, leading to a comical and unforeseen escapade.

Macdonald notes that this episode brings forth a new comedic partnership between Reno (voiced by Adam McArthur) and Iharu (Ben Stegmair). “They’ve got fantastic chemistry. I’m unsure if they’ve encountered each other in real life, but you wouldn’t guess—they come off like old pals,” he remarked. Additionally, the episode features a delightful animal interaction with Hoshina, introducing a whimsical element amid the action-oriented storyline.

Landon Macdonald on Voicing Sochiro Hoshina

Macdonald, recognized for his role in English dubs of popular anime such as Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Jujutsu Kaisen, and The Red Ranger Becomes an Adventurer in Another World, takes on a larger role in Kaiju No. 8 as Sochiro Hoshina, the vice-captain of the Third Division of the Defense Force.

“Long before I was cast, I was already a fan. I read the manga early in its release, which isn’t always the case,” Macdonald expressed. “Sometimes, we merely hope to be part of our cherished franchises, but it’s rare to portray our favorite characters within those worlds. However, occasionally it occurs—and it happened for me!”

Macdonald is particularly thrilled to witness the spectacular clash between Hoshina and Kaiju No. 10 on the big screen. “Seeing that unfold in a theater is going to be astonishing,” he mentioned, praising Brent Mukai’s performance as Kaiju No. 10 and highlighting memorable moments from co-stars Katelyn Barr (Mina) and Abigail Blythe (Kikoru Shinomiya).

Anticipating Season 2

With the premiere of Kaiju No. 8 Season 2 set for July 2025, Mission Recon presents an excellent opportunity for fans to catch up and for newcomers to dive in. The narrative, adapted from Naoya Matsumoto’s manga and animated by Production I.G (Ghost in the Shell) with kaiju design by Studio Khara (Evangelion, Shin Godzilla), is expected to explore the advancement of the Defense Force and the enigmatic ambitions of Kaiju No. 9.

Macdonald hinted at the return of Gen Narumo, voiced by Aaron Dismuke, who briefly appeared at the conclusion of Season 1. “He and Hoshina share a wonderful dynamic: frenemies,” Macdonald remarked. “We’ve known each other for years but haven’t had many opportunities to work together.”

The Big Screen Experience

While streaming services like Crunchyroll provide convenient access to Kaiju No. 8 Season 1, Macdonald emphasized the distinct allure of experiencing anime in theaters. “Please come support us. Back anime on the big screen so we can continue hosting events like this,” he encouraged. “Watching at home and streaming is enjoyable, but there’s something about theaters—it’s genuine communal magic.”

Final Thoughts

Kaiju No. 8: Mission Recon transcends being merely a recap—it stands as a tribute to the series’ accomplishments and a pathway to its exciting future. With a blend of exhilarating battles, heartfelt humor, and a cast of dedicated voice actors, the film is guaranteed to enchant both longtime admirers and fresh faces alike.

Don’t miss your opportunity to immerse yourself in the kaiju turmoil and

2K, Gearbox Software, and Conan O’Brien Collaborate for a Unique Clueless Gamer Segment Showcasing Borderlands 4 to Support NEXT for AUTISM

In a thrilling blend of gaming, humor, and charitable efforts, 2K and Gearbox Software have officially revealed a special collaboration with Conan O’Brien and Team Coco to present an exclusive Clueless Gamer segment highlighted by the eagerly awaited Borderlands 4. This partnership aims to generate funds and raise awareness for NEXT for AUTISM, a nonprofit focused on assisting individuals and families impacted by autism.

At the heart of this initiative is a one-of-a-kind CharityBuzz auction, available until April 15, where fans can place bids for a remarkable chance to join Conan O’Brien and his long-time Clueless Gamer co-host Aaron Bleyaert for a gaming session of Borderlands 4. All proceeds from the auction will directly benefit NEXT for AUTISM, aiding in their mission to offer programs and services that improve the lives of autistic individuals throughout their lifetimes.

What the Winner Will Experience

The successful bidder and a companion will enjoy an unforgettable adventure that encompasses:

– An exclusive meet-and-greet with Conan O’Brien and Aaron Bleyaert.
– Involvement in the filming of a Clueless Gamer segment, estimated to last close to two hours.
– An opportunity to play Borderlands 4 alongside Conan and Aaron, as they take on the role of one of the new Vault Hunters.
– A chance for a photo opportunity and the ability to have a personal small item signed by Conan.
– Travel arrangements for two, including round-trip airfare to Los Angeles (LAX), a two-night stay in a standard hotel room, with all room taxes covered.

Although meals are not included, the experience is guaranteed to be memorable for enthusiasts of comedy, gaming, and Conan’s distinctive brand of wit.

About Borderlands 4

Borderlands 4, the newest entry in the cherished looter-shooter series, continues the franchise’s legacy of frenetic action, zany humor, and distinctive art style. Players can select from four new Vault Hunters, each featuring customizable skill trees and innovative Action Skills that enrich gameplay strategy. The game aims to provide a fresh perspective on the Borderlands universe while delivering the explosive enjoyment fans anticipate.

NEXT for AUTISM: A Noble Cause

Established in 2003, NEXT for AUTISM has been a leader in developing inventive programs for individuals with autism. From initiating the first charter school in New York for children with severe autism to founding the Center for Autism and the Developing Brain in collaboration with New York-Presbyterian, Weill Cornell Medical College, and Columbia University, the organization has consistently advanced support and advocacy.

Currently, NEXT for AUTISM emphasizes assisting autistic adults in leading fulfilled lives by fostering inclusive employment options and minimizing obstacles to independence. The funds raised through this CharityBuzz auction will directly contribute to these crucial efforts.

How to Get Involved

Fans eager to bid on this exclusive Clueless Gamer experience can navigate to the official CharityBuzz auction page here. The auction will conclude on April 15, 2024, so those wishing to engage with Conan and support a worthy cause should act quickly.

Whether you’re a devoted Borderlands enthusiast, a long-time admirer of Clueless Gamer, or simply someone looking to make a positive impact, this is a unique opportunity to blend entertainment with meaningful support. Don’t let this chance to be a part of gaming history while aiding the autism community pass you by.

For further details and to place your bid, head to the CharityBuzz auction page.

Let the bidding commence—and may the finest Vault Hunter triumph!