Puzzle adventure game 'Indika' gets gameplay trailer and demo

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As part of Steam Next Fest, developer Odd Meter and publisher 11 bit Studios have released a free playable demo for their upcoming puzzle adventure game Indika. For the occasion, a gameplay trailer was aired:

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In INDIKA players take on the role of a young nun named—also named Indika—as she undertakes a thought-provoking odyssey that explores the very nature of good versus evil. INDIKA is a third-person adventure game that effectively combines exploration and environmental puzzles, with a hint of platforming. Through its themes of sin, sorrow, and ethical quandaries, INDIKA transcends conventional gaming boundaries, resembling an avant-garde film that aims to question societal conventions rather than merely providing entertainment.

In addition, the setting of 19th-century Russia alongside themes of absolute sorrow, sin, and moral dilemmas plays an integral part in the game's narrative. The subjects of religion and authority are prevalent throughout Indika's journey as she faces many tough obstacles that make her question reality and her place in it.

Having played the demo myself, I can say that Indika offers quite a unique premise. The demo, which lasts for around 30-40 minutes, sees the titular Indika progressing across a snowy landscape with Ilya, a guard who kidnapped her (and thinks he's God's chosen one). It's narrative-driven and focuses on exploration as well as puzzle solving, some of which involve, of course, praying as also accompanying Indika is the devil himself. You'll have to scrutinise the environment to piece together a solution and these bring a layer of challenge, although some type of indication for accessibility would be welcome. From the short demo, Indika does seem to offer an original experience and I look forward to what the full game has to offer. If you're into puzzle adventure games, it's worth giving this demo a try to experience its trippy and unique universe.

Indika is scheduled for a launch in 2024 for PC and consoles.

Indika Steam Demo