Hidden Gems: Kickstarter Games You Should Know About

11 July 2025

Imagine stumbling upon a secret treasure chest while casually strolling along a beach. That’s what finding a hidden gem on Kickstarter feels like – a shiny nugget of creativity waiting to be discovered. If you’ve ever been frustrated with the sea of big-budget, cookie-cutter games flooding the market, then crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter might just be your oasis of hope. The best part? These projects come packed with heart, passion, and innovation. Let’s go on this journey to uncover some jaw-dropping Kickstarter games that you’ve probably never heard of but really should.

What Makes Kickstarter Games Special?

Before diving into the list, let’s talk about why Kickstarter games are worth your attention. Games on Kickstarter aren’t just about flashy graphics or massive marketing budgets. They’re incubators for fresh ideas, quirky mechanics, and themes that push the envelope.

When you back a Kickstarter project, you’re not just buying a game – you're helping a creator's dream come alive. It’s like being part angel investor, part cheerleader. It’s raw, it’s risky, and yeah, sometimes you may not even get the product in the end. But when it works out? Oh man, it’s like finding the secret menu at your favorite burger joint – deliciously satisfying.

Now that we’ve established just how cool Kickstarter games are, let’s uncover some under-the-radar gems that deserve your attention.

1. "Everdell: Farshore" - A Cozy World Full of Wonder

Are you into world-building and immersive strategy games? Then you’ll love Everdell: Farshore. A spiritual cousin of the original Everdell, this game raises the bar for tabletop strategy enthusiasts. You’re tasked with creating a thriving harbor town on a magical coastline filled with whimsical critters.

What sets it apart? The game isn’t just about winning; it’s about the journey. From collecting resources to overcoming natural disasters, Everdell: Farshore feels like cozying up with a mug of cocoa on a rainy day.

And don't even get me started on the art – it looks like a Pixar movie came to life. If you’re looking for something chilled but strategic, this one’s a keeper.

2. "Sea of Stars" - Nostalgia With Modern Flair

Turn-based RPG fans, unite! Sea of Stars is like someone bottled up all your childhood memories of classic JRPGs (Chrono Trigger, anyone?) and shook in some modern magic dust.

In this visually stunning game, you control two Children of the Solstice, who must use their powers to battle a sinister alchemist hellbent on chaos. The game’s pixel-perfect visuals and incredible soundtrack (created by Chrono Trigger composer Yasunori Mitsuda) are a love letter to the golden age of gaming.

The whole thing screams “1995,” but not in a tacky ‘retro cash-grab’ way. It’s more like slipping on your favorite old hoodie – familiar and just right.

3. "Nemesis: Lockdown" - A Sci-Fi Horror Masterpiece

If you’re a fan of intense, edge-of-your-seat board games, Nemesis: Lockdown is the pulse-pounding sci-fi nightmare you didn’t know you needed. Think Alien meets Dead Space, but as a tabletop experience.

Your mission? Survive. Sounds simple, right? Ha! Surviving involves not only fighting off terrifying alien creatures but also handling power outages, backstabbing teammates (yes, you read that right), and the constant threat of betrayal.

The best part of Nemesis: Lockdown is its unpredictable narrative. You might start off as a well-meaning hero and end up sabotaging everyone just to escape alone. It’s chaotic, brutal, and oh-so-satisfying.

4. "Kingdoms Forlorn" - Dark Fantasy Done Right

Dark fantasy fans, assemble! Kingdoms Forlorn is an ambitious adventure game that blends dungeon crawling with deep storytelling. You’ll explore decaying kingdoms, battle massive bosses, and try to uncover the truth of a world shrouded in mystery.

But here’s the kicker – this game’s lore is thicc. We’re talking “someone-get-me-a-lore-dictionary” levels of complexity. And yet, it’s presented so seamlessly that it doesn’t feel like homework. Every decision you make shapes the story in ways that are unique to you. It’s like someone mashed together Dark Souls and Divinity: Original Sin but made it even more personal.

5. "Dorfromantik: The Board Game" - A Zen Escape

Okay, not everyone wants dark, broody games dripping with existential dread. Sometimes you just want to relax, you know? Enter Dorfromantik: The Board Game, a soothing puzzle game-turned-board-game where you build picturesque villages one tile at a time.

It’s simple yet endlessly engaging. You compete to create the most beautiful and harmonious landscape possible by matching tiles, forming rivers, and designing quaint little towns. Think of it like digital gardening, only on your dining table. Trust me, after a stressful week, this game is like a spa day for your soul.

6. "Oathsworn: Into the Deepwood" - A Cooperative Epic

Got a group of friends who love epic adventures? Oathsworn: Into the Deepwood might just blow your collective minds. This cooperative narrative-driven game throws you into a grim, monster-infested forest with one objective – survive and uncover the truth.

The game oozes atmosphere; between the tense battles and branching storylines, every choice feels weighty. Plus, the miniatures? Chef’s kiss. They’re so detailed, you’ll probably spend hours just gawking at them. Warning, though: this one’s a beast in terms of setup. But if you’re willing to invest the time, it pays off massively.

Why Backing Kickstarter Games Is Worth It

Backing Kickstarter games might feel like gambling, but it’s more like becoming a co-pilot for innovation. Sure, there’s always the risk that the project might not pan out, but when it does? You get to be part of something truly special. Plus, let’s be real – being able to say, “Oh yeah, I backed that game before it was cool,” is the ultimate bragging right, isn’t it?

Some Tips Before Diving Into Kickstarter

Hold up – before you start throwing your money at every cool game you see, here are a few pro tips:

1. Set a Budget – It’s way too easy to over-commit. Trust me, those stretch goals and add-ons are dangerous.
2. Research the Creator – Check their track record. Do they have successful campaigns under their belt?
3. Check the Delivery Timeline – Be realistic about delays. Crowdfunding isn’t Amazon Prime.
4. Know What You’re Backing – Read through the campaign (yes, all of it). Is the game finished, or is it still an idea?

The Final Word on Kickstarter Hidden Gems

Kickstarter games are like artisanal coffee. They’re crafted with care, brimming with unique flavors, and sometimes come with a bitter aftertaste if things don’t go as planned. But the joy of finding that perfect cup? Worth every sip.

So, whether you're a battle-hardened RPG fan, a strategy enthusiast, or someone just looking for a bit of escapism, there’s a hidden gem on Kickstarter waiting just for you. Take a chance – who knows, you might just discover your next favorite game.