Journey

Journey has been around for years, and it’s still one of the greatest indie games out there. You’re a robed traveler crossing a vast desert toward a distant mountain, with almost no dialogue or explicit instructions. You glide down sand dunes, explore ruins, and occasionally encounter other real players whose only way of communicating is a little musical chime.

What makes Journey so relaxing is the way it trusts you to move at your own pace. There’s no score, no combat, and no punishment for pausing and just enjoying the view. The controls are simple enough, and the whole experience is short enough to finish in one or two evenings. Still, the hidden story and soothing gameplay will give you a memorable experience that you’ll think about long after the credits roll.

If you like the sound of Sky but want something more self-contained and single-player-focused, Journey is still one of the best games you can buy.