There's also the book 'The Haunting of Hill House' which has inspired many indie interpretations. It's a classic ghost story with complex characters and a really eerie setting. The way the house seems to have a life of its own and the psychological aspects of the characters' experiences with the possible ghosts make it a great source for indie hits in the ghost story genre.
Another example is 'The Babadook'. It's an indie film that has become quite popular in the ghost story genre. The Babadook itself is a very menacing and unique horror entity. The movie does a great job of exploring themes of grief and mother - son relationship within the context of this terrifying ghost - like presence.
Indie hits ghost story can bring fresh perspectives to the horror genre. They often explore unique themes that big - budget horror might overlook. For example, they might focus on more psychological aspects of fear rather than just jump scares.
There's also 'A Tale for the Time Being'. While it's not a traditional horror - type ghost story, it has elements of the supernatural. It weaves a complex tale of a diary washing ashore and the stories within it having a kind of ghostly presence in the lives of those who read it. It's a more thought - provoking take on the ghost story concept.
Another great indie game with a wonderful story is 'Stardew Valley'. While it seems like a simple farming simulator at first, it weaves in stories about the local community, your relationships with the villagers, and your character's past. There are also hidden secrets and mysteries in the town that unfold as you progress.
One great indie love story is 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind'. It tells a unique and poignant love story about a couple who choose to erase each other from their memories. Another is 'Before Sunrise' and its sequels. The simple yet deep connection between the two main characters as they stroll through a European city is really charming. And 'Amélie' is also an indie love story. The main character, Amélie, has a very special way of finding love in her own quirky world.
Well, 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons can be considered a great indie - like fiction. It has a complex and engaging story. Then there's 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss. The world - building in this indie - flavored work is extraordinary. And don't forget about 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. Although it became mainstream, it has the kind of edgy and unique storytelling often found in indie fiction.
A great indie game story often has unique and creative concepts. It might explore themes that are not commonly found in mainstream games. For example, it could focus on a very niche aspect of human experience or a strange, fictional world. Also, strong character development is key. Characters should be relatable or at least interesting enough to draw players in. Good pacing is also crucial. It should not be too rushed or too slow, but lead the player through the story in an engaging way.
One great indie sci - fi work is 'Primer'. It's a mind - bending time - travel movie that was made on a relatively low budget but has a really engaging and complex plot. The filmmakers managed to create a unique take on time - travel concepts that keeps the audience thinking.
One of the best is 'Stardew Valley'. It has a simple yet engaging story where you inherit your grandfather's old farm and start a new life in a small town. You build relationships with the townsfolk, discover secrets about the valley, and face challenges like the local JojaMart trying to take over. It's a heartwarming story of community and self - discovery.
One game like Cave Story is 'La-Mulana'. It has complex dungeons filled with puzzles and enemies. Another is 'Spelunky', which offers procedurally generated levels for a different experience every time. Also, 'Aquaria' has a similar indie charm with its unique underwater world exploration and engaging gameplay.