Written by Rhiannen ‘Doomcutie’ Austin
There is no stopping Summer Game Fest as it continues to fill our timelines across social media. Continuing in the theme of unstoppable, was the Women-Led Games Showcase today, which presented 21 games from women-led studios around the world and hosted by the effervescent Liana Rupert.
READ MORE: Welcome to Gamegasm 2024
Spearheaded by Charmaine Duff, Women-Led Games is carving out a space for women to blossom by bringing recognition to their hard work in video games. As a passionate woman in gaming who has spent numerous hours talking with women who create games, these events are incredibly important to me. I know how much passion these women have for what they do, and they deserve to be celebrated for their creation and achievements in gaming.
Here are my top picks from the games they showcased this year.
The Crush House
Developed by Nerial, a UK based game developer and published by Devolver Digital – The Crush House is about to heat up everything we know about management sims. Set in 1999, you take the wheel as the next big thing in reality TV selecting cast members, documenting drama and satisfying an ever growing audience.
READ MORE: Play The Crush House today with a new PC demo
It’s Big Brother meets Love Island vibes in a neon pastel fantasy house, with a spooky twist. Are you game? Take a look at the demo available to play now.
Just Crow Things
I am so ready to “caws” some mayhem in Just Crow Things from Unbound Creations. You play as a little crow trying to prove herself to the world. Cute animals, pooping on people and collecting shiny things sounds like cosy chaos heaven! I am thoroughly enjoying seeing this genre of game take flight and join the ranks of cosy games, and the use of this nameless crow is simply genius. I was delighted when I saw the crow in the trailer wrecking a stall of some kind with a leaf blower wearing a top hat, this is ultimate gaming! Jump into the chaos with the demo which is available to play now.
Phoenix Springs
Calligram Studio showcased their award winning game Phoenix Springs and it did not disappoint. With the game’s mesmerising 2.5D hand-drawn animations it’s a no brainer as to why it’s not only been nominated for but won awards in anticipation of it’s release. The power of this games narrative is undeniable and the protagonist, Iris Dormer, is brought to life beautifully in the gameplay I have seen so far. Mechanics wise, it features a modern point-and-click interface and a unique deduction mechanic, which supports the overarching mystery of the game. I am looking forward to seeing more of this in the future.
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Urban Jungle
Turn your home into a green haven in Urban Jungle. The game is set in a tiny apartment with the perfect spot for each plant, combined with the dreamy soundscape and soft colour palette, it giving the most ultimate zen vibes. Homebody plant lovers will devour this game, check out their demo available now.
RA RA BOOM
Four badass chicks with outlandishly large weapons and iconic wardrobes? Sign me up! RA RA BOOM is a fast-paced four-player co-op beat ‘em up style game developed by Gylee Games. In this arcade-esque rumble, you play as a team of ninja cheerleaders from space fighting to save the Earth from AI robots gone rogue, seems simple enough. The soundtrack was utter perfection, setting the scene for an unforgettable take on GIRL POWER! This game has blasted it’s way onto my wishlist!
Available Now
Releasing in 2024
- Bubblegum Galaxy
- Albert Wilde: Quantum P.I.
- Citadelvm
- Dungeon Clawler
- Mexico 1921: A Deep Slumber
- Munch
- Soulitaire
- Star Stuff
- Sunny Side
- The Star Named EOS
- Woodo
- Yes, Your Grace: Snowfall
