From the sun-kissed beaches to the rugged Outback, Australia has been the birthplace of some of the most awesome and innovative video games in the industry. Join us as we explore the best video games to emerge from the land down under, showcasing the unique creativity and talent of Australian game developers.

In this article that’s part of a weekly series, we will showcase some of the most outstanding video games produced in the country that players should definitely consider playing or adding to their wishlist:

L.A. Noire

Developer: Team Bondi
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Release Date: 9 November 2011

Team Bondi’s L.A. Noire takes players on a captivating journey through 1940s Los Angeles, offering a mix of opulence and grit. Unlike typical action-adventure games, the focus here is on solving crimes rather than engaging in traditional criminal activities.

The mystery action game provides an immersive experience akin to participating in an interactive movie, allowing players to meticulously investigate crime scenes, pursue leads, and bring wrongdoers to justice. With its well-crafted dialogue, thrilling chase sequences, and intense shootouts, L.A. Noire delivers an exciting and engaging gaming experience. It’s worth noting that the game was published by Rockstar Games, which explains some similarities to the GTA series.

Antichamber

Developer: Alexander “Demruth” Bruce
Platforms: PC
Release Date: 1 February 2013

Are you a fan of mind-bending puzzle games that push your intellect to the limit? If so, then Antichamber is the game for you. This unique puzzle exploration game challenges you to think outside the box and pay attention to the smallest details. Once you grasp its unconventional logic and style, you’ll find yourself captivated by every single puzzle.

In Antichamber, the goal is not simply to reach the end but to embark on a journey of exploration, both within the game’s environment and within your own mind. The game defies traditional notions of winning and losing, offering an experience that is more about the process than the destination. As you navigate through nonstandard geometry and mind-bending spatial twists, you’ll find yourself rethinking the way you perceive the digital world.

For example, moving forward through a hallway might unexpectedly lead you right back to where you started, while retracing your steps could reveal an entirely new area. The game’s puzzles demand a whole new approach to traversing the environment, making for a truly unforgettable and thought-provoking experience.

Hollow Knight Series

Developer: Team Cherry
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Release Date: 25 February 2017

Discover the mesmerizing world of Hollow Knight, a game that seamlessly blends the challenging combat of Dark Souls with the exploration of a Metroidvania adventure. Developed by Australian indie Team Cherry, you step into the shoes of a brave knight, you’ll journey through the underground realm of Hallownest, battling corrupted creatures and unraveling ancient mysteries hidden within its depths.

Within this subterranean kingdom, now plagued by a devastating infection, players will encounter a multitude of hostile insectoids, each posing a unique threat. From navigating treacherous landscapes to facing formidable boss battles, every step in Hallownest demands caution and strategic prowess.

With its stunning visuals and fair yet challenging gameplay, Hollow Knight captures the essence of exploration and combat. Drawing inspiration from Dark Souls, the game introduces a Shade mechanic that adds a thrilling layer of complexity upon the character’s demise.

Excitingly, fans can anticipate the release of the sequel, Hollow Knight: Silksong, currently in development. Be prepare for another thrilling journey through a world brimming with wonder and danger!

The Gardens Between

Developer: The Voxel Agents
Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, iOS, Android
Release Date: 20 September 2018

The Gardens Between, a delightful puzzle adventure game developed by The Voxel Agents, follows the journey of two childhood friends, Arina and Frendt, as they explore a series of islands formed by their shared memories. This heartwarming game offers around 20 beautifully crafted islands that represent the duo’s cherished experiences, from their initial meeting to their extraordinary escapades.

Players will need to guide Arina and Frendt on their quest to carry a lantern to the end of each island. Arina can use the lantern to dispel fog, while Frendt has the ability to manipulate time, clearing obstacles along the way. Despite its relatively short 4-hour playtime, the game boasts significant replay value.

Players are encouraged to revisit the islands to uncover overlooked storytelling details. The Gardens Between is a visual and auditory treat, featuring charming visuals, a soothing soundtrack, and a poignant story that tugs at the heartstrings.

Untitled Goose Game

Developer: House House
Platforms: PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Release Date: 24 September 2020

Looking for a wild and wacky game that’s guaranteed to bring a smile to your face? Look no further than Untitled Goose Game, an Australian-made gem that puts you in the webbed feet of a mischievous goose on a mission to wreak havoc in a quaint village. This game has it all – stealth, strategy, and plenty of laughs as you outsmart unsuspecting humans.

Best of all, you can breeze through the game in just an afternoon, ensuring non-stop fun without any dull moments. Plus, with a cheerful soundtrack accompanying your antics, the entertainment never stops. If you’re in the market for a lighthearted game that’s big on enjoyment, Untitled Goose Game is a top contender. It’s simple, it’s entertaining, and it’s bound to leave you honking with laughter.

The Artful Escape

Developer: Beethoven and Dinosaur
Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Nintendo Switch, PC
Release Date: 9 September 2021

The Artful Escape is a stunning visual adventure that takes players on a journey from Earth to the far reaches of the galaxies. The game’s beautiful visuals bring each location to life with meticulous detail. Playing as Francis Vendetti, a stylish teen with a rockstar aesthetic, you’ll embark on a quest to step out of his uncle Johnson Vendetti’s shadow, a folk legend in the vein of Bob Dylan. The weight of his uncle’s legacy rests on Francis’s shoulders as he strives to carve out his own path to success.

Music takes centre stage in this game, with rhythmic jam sessions interspersed between narrative and platforming segments. The game’s lush art is complemented by an outstanding soundtrack and top-notch voice acting. Featuring renowned actors such as Lena Headey and Jason Schwartzman, the performances are next level.

The Artful Escape defies easy categorization, offering an experience unlike any other. To truly appreciate it, you’ll have to dive in and experience it for yourself. It’s a wild ride that will have you tapping your feet and rocking out from beginning to end.

Cult of the Lamb

Developer: Massive Monster
Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Nintendo Switch, PC
Release Date: 11 August 2022

Cult of the Lamb has gained its dedicated fans by skillfully blending cute Animal Crossing-like characters with eerie occult elements. At the core of Massive Monster’s game is the engaging cult management and roguelite mechanics, offering players a delightful mini town-management experience and action-packed dungeon crawler. From constructing buildings to fulfilling cultists’ requests, conducting sermons, and performing rituals, every action yield experience or valuable buffs.

The game’s charming aesthetic is complemented by a fitting soundtrack, and while it doesn’t take itself too seriously, it delves into dark and gory themes associated with cults and indoctrination. Being a roguelite game ensures that each playthrough is unique, adding to its replay value. Cult of the Lamb’s distinctiveness in the indie gaming scene sets it apart as a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

To find out more, check out our review here.

The Plucky Squire

Developer: All Possible Futures
Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series, Nintendo Switch, PC
Release Date: 18 September 2024

The debut title of All Possible Futures, The Plucky Squire! This Zelda-inspired game introduces us to Jot, a storybook character who discovers a 3D child’s bedroom world beyond the pages of his book. The game’s mix of 2D and 3D gameplay, along with its humorous approach to breaking the narrative fourth wall, has drawn comparisons to the beloved Paper Mario series. What’s more, the studio was co-founded by James Turner, known for his work as an art director at Game Freak and his contributions to the Pokémon series, adding an extra layer of excitement to the game’s release.

All Possible Futures has truly nailed the storybook aesthetics, seamlessly integrating them into the gameplay. The experience is packed with personality and even imparts some valuable life lessons. The puzzles are delightfully challenging, requiring creative thinking, but fear not – mini-wizards in each section are on hand to offer helpful advice. And if that’s not enough, there are plenty of engaging mini-games to dive into as well.

This debut book-game experience is a real page-turner and comes highly recommended for everyone. For a deeper look into The Plucky Squire, be sure to check out our detailed written review.