Toby Fox’s Indie Gems: What to Play While Awaiting Deltarune Chapters 3 & 4 (and the Switch 2!)
The countdown is on! With Deltarune Chapters 3 and 4 poised for a highly anticipated release on June 5th – a date intriguingly shared with the rumored launch of the Switch 2 – fans of the Undertale universe are buzzing. But what’s a devoted player to do in these final, eager days? Look no further than the creator himself, Toby Fox, who has generously shared a list of his current favorite indie games to tide us over.
In a recent interview with Destructoid, Fox offered a curated selection of indie experiences, providing a fascinating glimpse into the tastes of one of gaming’s most beloved independent developers.
Dive into the Surreal: ENA: Dream BBQ
First on Fox’s recommendation list is ENA: Dream BBQ, an episodic exploration adventure game based on the surreal and popular YouTube animated series, ENA. If you’re drawn to a journey filled with mind-bending visuals, intricate mazes, and thought-provoking puzzles, this title, currently boasting an “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam, could be your perfect pre-Deltarune escape.
Deal Yourself In: Balatro
Stepping away from the dreamlike, Fox’s next pick is a game that has taken the indie scene by storm: Balatro. This poker-themed roguelike deck builder has captivated players and developers alike, including Stardew Valley’s Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone, who described being “in a trance” by its addictive gameplay. With a five-star score and over 100,000 reviews on Steam, Balatro’s strategic depth and satisfying combos offer a compelling challenge.
Retro Overload: UFO 50
For those with a love for all things retro, Toby Fox highlights UFO 50. Developed by Mossmouth, the minds behind the legendary Spelunky, UFO 50 is a treasure trove of gaming nostalgia. This unique collection bundles 50 distinct, fully fleshed-out games spanning genres like roguelikes, JRPGs, and more, all presented with a vibrant 80s aesthetic. Thousands of positive Steam reviews attest to the quality and variety packed into this ambitious compilation.
A Story to Watch: Soul of Sovereignty
Fox’s final recommendation offers a more personal touch, spotlighting Soul of Sovereignty, a visual novel helmed by one of his own friends. While still in development, a prelude to this mature, linear adventure is available on itch.io. Fox himself expressed his anticipation, stating he “can’t wait to see how the story will continue.” This pick offers a chance to support an up-and-coming title with a personal endorsement from the Deltarune creator.
So, as the clock ticks down to the dual launch of Deltarune Chapters 3 & 4 and potentially the next generation of Nintendo hardware, these indie gems offer diverse and engaging worlds to explore. Whether you’re craving surreal adventures, strategic deck-building, a retro smorgasbord, or an unfolding narrative, Toby Fox’s picks provide plenty to keep you entertained.
