Day of the Devs is one of my favourite showcases at Summer Game Fest. It’s always a fun celebration of creativity, connection, and community. It gives indie developers the spotlight they deserve, sharing their games with a huge audience around the world. This year felt extra special, with Aussie devs taking the spotlight, it was a proud moment for our local talent to shine on the global stage.
From the whimsical charm of Big Walk, which looks vibrant and full of fun, to the relaxing exploration of Sword of the Sea, and the standout musical energy of Mixtape, there was something for everyone. Here are our top five picks from the latest Day of the Devs showcase.
Quest Daily’s Top 5 Picks:
Big Walk
Big Walk is the next game from Aussie legends House House, creators of Untitled Goose Game. It’s all about walking, talking, and exploring a massive open world with your mates. I’m especially keen to see how the proximity chat adds personality to every weird and wonderful interaction, from the escape room-style puzzles to sporty challenges.
Big Walk is already high on my 2026 Steam wishlist, I didn’t hesitate to take that first step.
Sword of the Sea
Sword of the Sea is a stunning, atmospheric journey where you glide across shifting landscapes on a sword that doubles as a hoverboard. The movement is inspired by old-school skating games with a flow state reminiscent of past classics Abzû and The Pathless. Sword of the Sea looks like a meditative ride through many beautiful and surreal environments.
Sword of the Sea arrives on PC and PS5 on August 19th, so be sure to wishlist it now.
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Escape Academy 2: Back 2 School
Escape Academy 2: Back 2 School takes the puzzle-packed action of the first game and drops it into an open-world campus. Between escape rooms you can explore the school freely, take on side quests, and really feel like a student attending this quirky academy.
I had a blast playing the first game online with friends, so I’m eager to head back to campus for more brain-teasing fun.
Wishlist Escape Academy 2: Back 2 School now on Steam and get ready to hit the books and solve mind bending puzzles.
Mixtape
Mixtape is a vibrant coming-of-age adventure set in the 90s, developed by Aussie legends Beethoven & Dinosaur. You’ll relive a group of teens’ most unforgettable memories on their final night of high school. The music is a total vibe, with a killer 90s soundtrack featuring the likes of Silverchair and The Smashing Pumpkins.
This narrative adventure looks totally radical as you skateboard around town, pull off one last round of pranks, and maybe even experience your first kiss. I can’t wait to crash back into those chaotic teenage years with walkman in hand.
Mixtape is hitting Game Pass on Day One, as well as PS5 and PC. Wishlist it now and let your inner 90s kid relive the glory days.
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Toem 2
Toem 2 is the follow-up to the charming photography adventure Toem. Set a few years after the original, you’ll step back into the shoes of a curious photographer, once again capturing mysterious events known as “Toems” on your trusty camera. With climbing, jumping, and handy new tools like scissors and a hammer, your camera is more versatile than ever.
Set in a brand new 3D world, you’ll befriend quirky characters and unlock new camera skills to help you on your journey. I’m excited to see the signature black-and-white style return, and I can’t wait to start snapping shots all over again.
Keep up to date with Toem 2 by clicking that wishlist button now on Steam.
The Day of the Devs showcase lived up to my expectations, delivering a fresh wave of exciting indie games heading our way. I’m especially looking forward to Mixtape, with its incredible 90s soundtrack, and I can’t wait to get my hands on it later in 2025. With so many standout titles shown, narrowing down my wishlist was no easy task, however that is a very good problem to have.
Watch the full 2025 Day of the Devs presentation below.
