Stardew Valley（2016）
Developer: ConcernedApe
Compatible devices: Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox, PC, iOS, and Android
An incredibly addictive and incredibly detailed farm management game
This game is heavily influenced by the ever-popular Japanese farm management game "Harvest Moon." The basic rules are the same: work in the fields, take care of animals, save money, and expand your farm. However, the quality and quantity of the detailed elements are extraordinary, so many people find themselves unintentionally addicted to the game.
"Of course, there's also the story of deepening relationships with the residents and the marriage element, which are popular in Story of Seasons. There are also systems that pioneered the original game, such as same-sex marriage. I definitely recommend this game to fans of this type of management and operation game." (Sawayaka)
HADES（2018）
Developer: Supergiant Games
Compatible devices: Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox, PC
I fell down again and again, wanting to see further ahead.
In recent years, "roguelike" games, in which a new dungeon is generated with each challenge, have become popular. This genre is said to be "endlessly playable," and is in the same vein as the "Mystery Dungeon" series from the Super Nintendo era. This title in particular has been talked about for its high level of strategy in selecting the abilities you can use in battle, and for the impressive inclusion of a vast amount of story in the game.
"Looking at the many awards it has received, I think it's fair to say that this is one of the pinnacles of roguelike games." (Sawayaka)
Vampire Survivors（2022）
developer: poncle
Compatible devices: Switch, Xbox, PC, iOS, and Android
Get excited with super powers that can destroy hundreds of enemies at once
Control a vampire hunter and survive 30 minutes of monster attacks in this blockbuster action game. As time passes, the number of enemies increases, and before you know it, they'll cover the entire screen. While enduring this onslaught, defeat enemies, level up, and acquire weapons and equipment. As you level up, your weapons and equipment will become stronger, becoming super-powerful enough to destroy hundreds of enemies! The thrill of seeing enemies disappear in an instant awaits.
"The only control is movement. It's easy to play even for people who aren't used to action games." (Pear)
Downwell（2015）
Developer: Moppin
Compatible devices: Switch, PS5, PS4, PC, iOS, Android
A "fall game" that combines simplicity and exhilaration
You move left and right, jump, and use "gun boots" that fire bullets from your shoes to descend down a vertical hole. It's a simple game, but the roguelike elements make you want to try it again and again, and the small details, such as the exhilarating recoil when you fire the gun boots, are carefully crafted.
"It's a game from a while ago, but it was featured in the TV drama 'Astro Boy' last year,' and its popularity has been rekindled. I think one of the great things about indie games is that interesting games can have such a strong following." (Sawayaka)
Watermelon Game (2021)
Developer: Aladdin X
Compatible devices: Switch
A simple yet deep puzzle game that suddenly became popular in 2023
This puzzle game involves stacking falling strawberries and apples so they don't spill out of the box. By connecting the same types of fruit, the fruit will gradually evolve, so the goal is to complete the watermelon with the highest score.
"Originally, it was an app installed on a projector, inspired by a Chinese game called 'Synthetic Watermelon.' It was also released on the Nintendo Switch, and with its affordable price of 240 yen and easy-to-understand rules, it became a huge hit through live commentary videos and other media." (Yamada Shuka)
