The indie game development industry primarily focuses on creating video games by independent developers rather than large studios. Companies ranging from small, collaborative teams to mid-sized firms are involved, allowing for creative expression and innovation. Typically, these companies produce unique, artful games that often emphasize storytelling and gameplay mechanics over mainstream trends. Trends indicate a rise in digital delivery platforms and community-driven game design, with successful titles often branching out into merchandise and multiple formats. This evolution highlights how developers are increasingly interacting with players, ensuring longevity and community engagement.

This list features 22 indie game development companies, each with distinct abilities. Ranging in size from small teams to slightly larger groups, the companies are situated in various countries like Canada, the USA, and Sweden, showcasing a global influence. Established between 2001 and 2017, many have developed niche gaming experiences, specializing in genres such as RPG, action-platformers, and immersive storytelling. The firms emphasize creative control, emphasizing innovative gameplay and player feedback, which is increasingly valuable in today's gaming market.

Read on to discover the top indie game development companies.

Top 22 Indie Game Development Companies

1. Klei Entertainment

• Website: klei.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 98%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: January 2021
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: klei-entertainment

Klei Entertainment, based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, is a video game developer known for its innovative approach to game design. Founded in 2005, the company has produced a range of critically acclaimed titles, including 'Don't Starve', 'Oxygen Not Included', and 'Griftlands'. Klei's games are characterized by their distinctive art styles and engaging gameplay mechanics, often blending elements of survival, strategy, and exploration. The company has built a strong community around its games, offering support and updates that keep players engaged. Klei also sells merchandise related to its games, further connecting with its audience. With a workforce of around 112 employees, Klei remains a significant player in the indie game development scene, consistently pushing the boundaries of creativity and player engagement.

2. Supergiant Games

• Website: supergiantgames.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%, Canada 7%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: supergiant-games

Supergiant Games is a video game developer based in San Francisco, California, established in 2009. The company is known for its imaginative and immersive games that prioritize storytelling and engaging gameplay. With a small team of 11-50 employees, Supergiant has made a significant impact in the gaming industry through titles like Hades, a rogue-like dungeon crawler that has garnered widespread acclaim. Other notable games include Pyre, a party-based RPG, Transistor, a sci-fi action RPG, and Bastion, their debut title. Supergiant Games operates independently, focusing on creating unique gaming experiences without external funding, which allows them to maintain creative control over their projects. Their current work on Hades II demonstrates their ongoing relevance and ambition in the gaming market.

3. Drinkbox Studios

• Website: drinkboxstudios.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 100%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: drinkbox-studios-inc.

Drinkbox Studios is a Canadian video game developer based in Toronto, Ontario, founded in 2008. The company specializes in crafting engaging indie video games, with notable titles including the Guacamelee! series, the award-winning Severed, and the action RPG Nobody Saves the World. Drinkbox Studios has built a reputation for delivering unique gaming experiences that resonate with players. Their games often feature vibrant art styles and innovative gameplay mechanics, appealing to a broad audience of gamers. The studio operates independently, developing and publishing their titles across multiple platforms, including Steam, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox. This approach allows them to maintain creative freedom and explore diverse game concepts. Drinkbox Studios has not reported any external funding, indicating a self-sustained business model that is common among indie developers.

4. Raw Fury

• Website: rawfury.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Employee distribution: Sweden 85%, Croatia 5%, Romania 2%, Other 7%
• Latest funding: August 2021
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: raw-fury-games

Raw Fury, founded in 2015 and based in Stockholm, Sweden, operates as a video game publisher with a strong focus on indie games. The company prides itself on supporting developers in bringing their creative visions to life, emphasizing unique gaming experiences that resonate with players. Raw Fury's approach to publishing is characterized by a commitment to treating people with respect and fostering a collaborative environment. They have a team of around 80 employees, with a significant portion based in Sweden and others distributed across various countries. Their portfolio includes notable titles such as 'Kingdom Two Crowns', 'Dome Keeper', and 'Norco', reflecting their active engagement in the indie gaming scene. Raw Fury operates without reported funding, indicating a self-sustaining model that aligns with their philosophy of prioritizing developer happiness and independence.

5. Playdead

• Website: playdead.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Copenhagen, Denmark
• Employee distribution: Denmark 100%
• Latest funding: February 2009
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: playdead

Playdead is an independent video game developer and publisher based in Copenhagen, Denmark. Established in 2006 by game designer Arnt Jensen, the company has gained recognition for its artistic approach to game design. Playdead is best known for its two flagship titles, 'LIMBO' and 'INSIDE', both of which have received critical acclaim for their unique visual styles and engaging gameplay mechanics. The company employs a team of over 70 creative professionals, all dedicated to crafting high-quality gaming experiences. Playdead continues to focus on expanding the reach of its existing titles while also working on new projects, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to innovation in the gaming industry.

6. Motion Twin

• Website: motion-twin.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
• Employee distribution: France 83%, Spain 17%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: motion-twin

Motion Twin is a video game developer based in Bordeaux, France, established in 2001. The company operates as a worker cooperative, which means that all team members participate in decision-making processes, fostering a collaborative environment. Initially, Motion Twin focused on creating web games, producing over 150 titles in that space for more than a decade. In 2017, they transitioned to PC gaming with the release of 'Dead Cells', a rogue-lite action-platformer that has garnered critical acclaim and a large player base, selling over 11 million copies. Currently, the team of around 8 people is working on their next project, 'Windblown', set to enter Steam Early Access in 2024. Motion Twin's commitment to player experience and innovative game design positions them as a significant contributor to the indie game development scene.

7. Thunder Lotus

• Website: thunderlotusgames.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 98%, France 2%
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: thunderlotusgames

Thunder Lotus Games is a Montreal-based video game developer and publisher, founded in 2014. The company operates with a small team of 11-50 employees, focusing on crafting visually stunning and emotionally engaging games. Their portfolio includes notable titles such as Spiritfarer, which received critical acclaim for its narrative depth and artistic design, and Jotun, known for its hand-drawn visuals inspired by Norse mythology. Thunder Lotus emphasizes the importance of creating unique gaming experiences, which is reflected in their self-publishing model that allows for greater creative freedom. The studio has actively engaged with its community, particularly through the recent beta testing of their upcoming game, 33 Immortals, which has attracted over 47,000 players. This engagement highlights their commitment to player feedback and iterative development, key aspects of the indie game development ethos.

8. Frozenbyte Oy

• Website: frozenbyte.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
• Employee distribution: Finland 100%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: frozenbyte

Frozenbyte Oy is an independent game developer based in Helsinki, Finland, founded in 2001. The company has made a name for itself by creating high-quality video games, most notably the Trine series, which has sold over eight million copies across multiple platforms. Frozenbyte emphasizes game quality and the well-being of its employees, prioritizing a positive work environment alongside financial considerations. The company has been involved in various projects, including the recent release of Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy and the ongoing development of Starbase, a space MMO. With a team of approximately 80 employees, Frozenbyte continues to innovate and expand its portfolio, maintaining a strong presence in the indie gaming community.

9. Hello Games

• Website: hellogames.org
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Guildford, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hello-games

Hello Games is a video game development studio based in Guildford, England, founded in 2009. The company is known for its innovative and artistic approach to game design, creating titles that offer unique experiences to players. Their notable works include the multi-award-winning Joe Danger series, the expansive and evolving No Man's Sky, and the intimate puzzle adventure The Last Campfire. Hello Games operates independently, focusing on both game development and publishing. The studio has a history of starting small, with just a few team members, and growing into a recognized name in the industry. They have successfully combined the stability of larger studios with the creative freedom typical of indie developers, allowing them to explore ambitious projects. Hello Games continues to engage with its community through regular updates and expansions, particularly for No Man's Sky, which has transformed from a controversial launch to a celebrated title. Their commitment to creating impactful games that resonate with players underscores their role in the indie game development scene.

10. Thunderful Games

• Website: thunderfulgames.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Gothenburg, Västra Götaland, Sweden
• Employee distribution: Sweden 89%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%, Spain 3%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: thunderful

Thunderful Games, based in Gothenburg, Sweden, is a video game developer and publisher that specializes in creating and distributing engaging video games. Founded in 2017, the company emerged from the merger of three established game developers: Image & Form, Zoink!, and Guru Games. Thunderful operates through various studios located in Gothenburg, Karlshamn, Malmö, and Skövde, focusing on delivering high-quality gaming experiences. The company is known for its support of indie developers, providing them with the necessary resources to publish their games effectively. Thunderful has been involved in the development of notable titles, including the SteamWorld series and Lost in Random, and continues to expand its portfolio with upcoming releases. Their commitment to innovation and quality positions them as a significant entity in the indie gaming industry.

11. Chucklefish Limited

• Website: chucklefish.org
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: chucklefish-limited

Chucklefish Limited is an independent video game developer and publisher based in London, UK. Established in 2011 by Finn Brice, the company began with a vision to create engaging games, starting with the popular title Starbound, which was funded through Steam Early Access. Over the years, Chucklefish has grown from a small team of first-time developers to a company with 23 employees, focusing on charming pixel art games. They have successfully published several titles, including Wargroove and Eastward, and have collaborated with other indie developers, such as ConcernedApe for Stardew Valley. Chucklefish is dedicated to supporting indie creators by providing resources and publishing services, ensuring that unique and innovative games reach their audience. Their commitment to quality and community engagement is evident in their ongoing projects and updates, making them a significant player in the indie game development sector.

12. Daedalic Entertainment GmbH

• Website: daedalic.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $2.2M, May 2023
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: daedalic-entertainment-gmbh

Daedalic Entertainment GmbH, based in Hamburg, Germany, is a video game publisher and developer that has been active since 2007. The company specializes in publishing high-quality games and supporting indie developers, showcasing a portfolio that includes notable titles such as Deponia, Shadow Tactics, and Inkulinati. Daedalic has received multiple awards, including accolades for 'Studio of the Year' at the German Developers Award. Recently, they secured funding in May 2023, which reflects their ongoing commitment to the gaming industry. As a publisher, Daedalic takes projects from conception to release, working closely with various development studios to bring innovative game concepts to market. In April 2022, Daedalic became a subsidiary of the French publishing house Nacon, which has further solidified their position in the gaming sector.

13. The Game Bakers

• Website: thegamebakers.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Montpellier, Occitanie, France
• Employee distribution: France 93%, Canada 7%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: the-game-bakers

The Game Bakers is an independent video game studio based in Montpellier, France, founded in 2010 by Emeric Thoa and Audrey Leprince. The studio is known for its engaging and innovative games, including the critically acclaimed FURI, a fast-paced boss-fight game, and HAVEN, a romantic RPG that explores themes of love and rebellion. Their earlier works, such as the SQUIDS series, have also garnered positive attention for their unique gameplay and artistic style. The Game Bakers operates with a small team, emphasizing collaboration with talent from around the world. Their philosophy centers on creating games that resonate with players long after they finish playing, aiming to evoke strong emotions and lasting memories. The studio has received recognition for its work, including awards for FURI's soundtrack and visual design, further solidifying its position in the indie game development community.

14. Noodlecake

• Website: noodlecake.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 100%
• Latest funding: $4.9M, August 2017
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: noodlecake

Noodlecake Studios is an indie game development studio and publisher based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Founded in 2011, the company gained initial recognition with its hit game, Super Stickman Golf. Over the years, Noodlecake has expanded its portfolio to include a variety of games across different genres, such as action, puzzle, and sports. The studio has also ventured into publishing, assisting other indie developers in bringing their games to a broader audience. Noodlecake's commitment to quality and creativity is evident in its collaborations with various developers, allowing them to leverage Noodlecake's marketing and support expertise. The company has received funding amounting to $4.9 million, which has likely contributed to its growth and ability to innovate within the gaming space. Noodlecake continues to thrive in the competitive gaming industry, showcasing a passion for games and a dedication to the indie community.

15. The Game Kitchen

• Website: thegamekitchen.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Palomares Del Río, Andalusia, Spain
• Employee distribution: Spain 97%, Australia 3%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: the-game-kitchen

The Game Kitchen, based in Palomares Del Río, Andalusia, Spain, is a private video game developer founded in 2010. With a team size of 11-50 employees, the company specializes in creating and publishing indie games that resonate with players seeking unique experiences. Their portfolio includes critically acclaimed titles like 'Blasphemous', a punishing action-platformer that combines skillful combat with a rich narrative, and 'The Last Door', known for its low-resolution horror aesthetics and deep storytelling. The Game Kitchen also engages with its audience through merchandise related to their games, enhancing the overall brand experience. The company operates primarily online, allowing direct sales of games and collectibles. Their commitment to meaningful projects and a healthy work environment reflects a progressive approach to game development, making them a notable player in the indie gaming industry.

16. Giant Squid

• Website: giantsquidstudios.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: giant-squid-studios

Giant Squid is a video game development studio based in Santa Monica, California, founded in 2013. The company is known for its artistic approach to game design, focusing on creating emotionally resonant experiences. Their portfolio includes critically acclaimed titles such as ABZÛ, an exploration of underwater environments, and The Pathless, a mythic adventure featuring an archer and an eagle. Currently, they are developing Sword of the Sea, which promises to offer players a unique surfing adventure in a surreal landscape. The studio prides itself on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment, emphasizing the happiness and well-being of its team members as essential to the creative process. With a small team of 11-50 employees, Giant Squid operates independently, showcasing a commitment to crafting games that are not only enjoyable but also meaningful and impactful.

17. The Behemoth

• Website: thebehemoth.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: the-behemoth

The Behemoth is a video game developer and publisher based in San Diego, California, known for its engaging indie games. Founded in 2003, the company has made a name for itself with titles like Alien Hominid, Castle Crashers, BattleBlock Theater, and Pit People. The Behemoth prides itself on creating memorable gaming experiences that are both fun and visually appealing. They operate an online store for game purchases and merchandise, showcasing their commitment to their fanbase. The company is self-funded and has built a loyal following through its unique approach to game design and community engagement. Their participation in events like TwitchCon and IndieDevDay highlights their active role in the gaming industry, allowing them to connect with players and showcase their latest projects.

18. Tarsier Studios

• Website: tarsier.se
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sweden
• Employee distribution: Sweden 100%
• Latest funding: December 2019
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: tarsier-studios

Tarsier Studios is an independent video game developer based in Malmö, Sweden, founded in 2005. The studio is known for its atmospheric and immersive games, including the critically acclaimed Little Nightmares franchise and the innovative PSVR title Statik. Tarsier has a history of working on notable projects, including contributions to the LittleBigPlanet series. Currently, the studio employs around 70 individuals and is focused on developing its own intellectual properties, showcasing a commitment to originality and quality in game design. Tarsier Studios is fully owned by Amplifier Game Invest, which allows them to maintain a degree of independence while benefiting from the support of a larger entity. Their recent announcement of a new game, REANIMAL, further emphasizes their active role in the gaming industry.

19. Mighty Bear Games

• Website: mightybeargames.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Singapore
• Employee distribution: Singapore 92%, Vietnam 3%, Poland 3%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: $4.0M, February 2025
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: mighty-bear-games

Mighty Bear Games is a video game developer based in Singapore, founded in 2016 by a group of industry veterans from notable companies like King, Ubisoft, and Disney. The studio specializes in creating engaging online multiplayer games, emphasizing innovative design and player-centric experiences. With a team of approximately 38 employees, Mighty Bear Games operates with a strong focus on employee wellbeing and community engagement. They have released several games across multiple platforms, including mobile, desktop, and consoles. The company recently secured $4 million in funding in February 2025, which underscores its relevance and potential in the competitive gaming industry. Their approach combines the depth of traditional gaming with the accessibility that modern players seek, making them a noteworthy player in the indie game development scene.

20. the Chinese Room LTD

• Website: thechineseroom.co.uk
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Brighton And Hove, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 98%, Sweden 2%
• Latest funding: August 2018
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: the-chinese-room-ltd

The Chinese Room LTD, based in Brighton and Hove, England, is a video game developer known for its focus on narrative-driven experiences. Established in 2007, the company has garnered attention for its unique approach to storytelling in games, with titles like "Dear Esther" and "Little Orpheus" that emphasize emotional engagement over traditional gameplay mechanics. The studio employs around 82 people and is currently working on two new games using Unreal Engine 5, showcasing their commitment to leveraging advanced technology in game development. The Chinese Room has also been involved in community-building efforts within the industry, promoting inclusivity and support among its employees. Their dedication to creating immersive gaming experiences positions them as a notable player in the indie game development sector.

21. Cyan

• Website: cyan.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mead, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Crowdfunding, $1.4M, April 2019
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: cyan-worlds-inc.

Cyan, Inc., based in Mead, Washington, is a video game developer with a storied history dating back to 1987. The company gained fame for creating the Myst series, which revolutionized the adventure game genre with its immersive environments and unique gameplay mechanics. Over the years, Cyan has released several titles, including Riven, Obduction, and the online multiplayer experience URU: Complete Chronicles. In addition to its game development efforts, Cyan has established Cyan Ventures, a publishing arm dedicated to supporting indie developers and innovative projects. This initiative reflects the company's commitment to fostering creativity within the gaming community. Cyan has also engaged in crowdfunding, with its last funding round in April 2019, which raised over $1.4 million. This funding has helped Cyan continue to develop new titles and maintain its presence in the industry.

22. Capybara Games

• Website: capybaragames.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: capybara-games

Capybara Games is an independent video game studio based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Established in 2003, the company has built a reputation for crafting innovative and engaging video games. Their portfolio features notable titles such as Grindstone, Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP, and Super Time Force Ultra, showcasing their ability to blend unique gameplay mechanics with artistic flair. Capybara Games has developed games for multiple platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices, reflecting their versatility in the industry. The studio is known for its creative approach, often exploring themes of joy, beauty, and playfulness in their work. With a dedicated team of 27 employees, Capybara Games continues to push the boundaries of indie game development, creating experiences that resonate with players.

Indie Game Development Insights: Key Companies

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Klei Entertainment	Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada	11-50	2005	Corporate
Supergiant Games	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2009	Private
Drinkbox Studios	Toronto, Ontario, Canada	11-50	2008	Private
Raw Fury	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	51-200	2015	Private Equity
Playdead	Copenhagen, Denmark	51-200	2006	Private
Motion Twin	Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France	1-10	2001	Private
Thunder Lotus	Montreal, Quebec, Canada	11-50	2014	Private
Frozenbyte Oy	Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland	51-200	2001	Private
Hello Games	Guildford, England, United Kingdom (UK)	11-50	2009	Private
Thunderful Games	Gothenburg, Västra Götaland, Sweden	201-500	2017	Private
Chucklefish Limited	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	11-50	2011	Private
Daedalic Entertainment GmbH	Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany	51-200	2007	Corporate
The Game Bakers	Montpellier, Occitanie, France	11-50	2010	Private
Noodlecake	Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada	11-50	2011	Corporate
The Game Kitchen	Palomares Del Río, Andalusia, Spain	11-50	2010	Private
Giant Squid	Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2013	Private
The Behemoth	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2003	Private
Tarsier Studios	Sweden	51-200	2005	Corporate
Mighty Bear Games	Singapore	11-50	2016	Venture Capital
the Chinese Room LTD	Brighton And Hove, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2007	Corporate
Cyan	Mead, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	1987	Private
Capybara Games	Toronto, Ontario, Canada	11-50	2003	Private

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