LocalThunk’s Top Picks for Indie Games of 2024
Balatro may have dominated the gaming scene this year, but LocalThunk, the mastermind behind the game, wants to shine a light on other indie gems that stood out in 2024.
LocalThunk recently shared his “very prestigious Golden Thunk Awards”, with the highest honor going to the captivating adventure of Animal Well.
“My very prestigious Golden Thunk award for Game of the Year 2024 goes to Animal Well!” he proudly declared.
“Animal Well provided an immersive experience. With its unique style, hidden secrets, and the way it made me feel like an impostor in this industry as a developer, Billy Basso truly crafted a masterpiece.”
Other Standout Indie Games Recognized by LocalThunk
Among the list of notable indie games, runners up included Dungeons and Degenerate Gamblers, praised for its strategic gameplay. LocalThunk emphasized that this game was in development before the release of Balatro, dismissing any claims of being a clone. Additionally, games like Arco, Nova Drift, Ballionaire, and Wrong Organ’s haunting Mouthwashing were also highlighted for their exceptional qualities.
“I had no idea Mouthwashing was a horror game when I started playing it late one night,” shared LocalThunk. “I was immediately hooked, and the world it presented along with its profound message still resonate with me months later.”
Reflecting on Balatro’s Success
While Balatro gained significant recognition at The Game Awards, winning multiple categories, LocalThunk, the sole creator behind the game, admitted to feeling conflicted about its success. In a recent interview, he expressed a sense of nostalgia for the time when game development was simply a hobby.
When asked if he regrets the overwhelming success of Balatro, LocalThunk replied, “Honestly, yeah. I am grateful for how this has changed my life, but there are moments when I wonder if I would have been happier if the game had never been released to the public.”