Indie games have exploded in popularity, offering players unique, creative, and engaging experiences. Playing these gems on powerful handheld gaming PCs, such as the GPD Win 4, GPD WIN MAX 2, GPD WIN Mini, ONEXPLAYER X1 AMD, and ONEXPLAYER X1 Mini, takes the experience to a new level.
These compact gaming PCs feature powerful hardware, like the AMD Ryzen 9 8840U, that allows you to enjoy immersive indie titles with excellent performance. Here’s our list of the top 10 best indie games on handheld gaming PCs, ideal for portable gaming on devices with high-end features and reliable mobility.
1. Hades
Hades is an award-winning rogue-like dungeon crawler where you play as Zagreus, son of Hades, fighting to escape the Underworld. Its fluid combat, detailed characters, and gripping narrative make it an unforgettable indie hit.
- Why You Should Play It: Challenging gameplay that builds on each death with progress and story.
- Performance Tips: For smoother gameplay, slightly reduce graphical settings on the ONEXPLAYER X1 AMD.
- Best Features on Handhelds: The ONEXPLAYER X1 AMD’s larger display enhances immersion during intense combat sequences.
2. Celeste
Celeste is a platforming masterpiece that follows Madeline’s journey to the top of a treacherous mountain. Its pixel-art style and tight controls make it a rewarding yet challenging experience.
- Why You Should Play It: Highly satisfying platforming with a thoughtful narrative.
- Performance Tips: Run at 60fps with v-sync on the GPD WIN 4 for a smooth experience.
- Best Features on Handhelds: The compact design of the GPD WIN 4 complements the tight controls needed for Celeste’s precise platforming.
3. Stardew Valley
In Stardew Valley, you build and manage a farm, form friendships, and explore the quaint world of Pelican Town. It’s the perfect blend of relaxing gameplay and rewarding progression.
- Why You Should Play It: A casual, pick-up-and-play title that’s ideal for handheld gaming.
- Performance Tips: Use battery-saving settings on the ONEXPLAYER X1 Mini for extended play sessions.
- Best Features on Handhelds: The portability of the ONEXPLAYER X1 Mini makes it easy to farm on the go.
4. Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is an atmospheric Metroidvania game where you explore a vast underground kingdom. With intricate level design and challenging combat, it’s a game that draws players into its deep lore and beautiful visuals.
- Why You Should Play It: Detailed exploration, rewarding gameplay, and a hauntingly beautiful world.
- Performance Tips: Set to medium graphics for a stable 60fps on the GPD WIN MAX 2.
- Best Features on Handhelds: The larger screen on the GPD WIN MAX 2 makes exploring Hollow Knight’s intricate world feel immersive.
5. Dead Cells
Dead Cells is a fast-paced action game that combines rogue-like and Metroidvania elements, offering players a unique experience every time with randomly generated levels and diverse combat styles.
- Why You Should Play It: High replay value with ever-changing runs.
- Performance Tips: Prioritize framerate for smooth gameplay on the ONEXPLAYER X1 AMD.
- Best Features on Handhelds: The ONEXPLAYER X1 AMD’s high-quality controls enhance Dead Cells’ quick and reactive combat.
6. Cuphead
With its hand-drawn 1930s-inspired animation and challenging boss battles, Cuphead has become an iconic indie game. Known for its difficulty, it’s a visually stunning and highly rewarding game for those who persevere.
- Why You Should Play It: Retro visuals paired with a hardcore gaming challenge.
- Performance Tips: Set to native resolution with mid settings on the GPD WIN Mini.
- Best Features on Handhelds: The GPD WIN Mini’s compact design and responsive controls bring the best out of Cuphead’s demanding gameplay.
7. Undertale
Undertale breaks RPG conventions with its humorous, emotionally engaging story and unique mechanics. It’s a game that’s as memorable for its choices as it is for its clever design and endearing characters.
- Why You Should Play It: Narrative-driven experience with multiple paths and endings.
- Performance Tips: Undertale runs well on all handhelds but is particularly smooth on the GPD WIN MAX 2.
- Best Features on Handhelds: The GPD WIN MAX 2’s screen size enhances Undertale’s story, dialogue, and character engagement.
8. Slay the Spire
Slay the Spire combines deck-building and rogue-like elements in a game that’s perfect for strategy lovers. Each run offers a fresh experience, testing players’ skills and tactics.
- Why You Should Play It: Great for strategy-based gameplay in short sessions.
- Performance Tips: Lower resolution on the ONEXPLAYER X1 Mini to maximize battery life.
- Best Features on Handhelds: The ONEXPLAYER X1 Mini’s portable nature lets you strategize anywhere.
9. Gris
Gris is a visually stunning, emotionally evocative game that tells a story of loss through beautiful art and platforming gameplay. It’s a must-play for those seeking an artistic indie experience.
- Why You Should Play It: Captivating visuals and a touching story with easygoing gameplay.
- Performance Tips: Set graphics to high for a full experience on the GPD WIN Mini.
- Best Features on Handhelds: The GPD WIN Mini’s compact screen enhances Gris’s atmospheric and personal journey.
10. The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth
A dark yet engaging rogue-like shooter, The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth offers endless variety through randomly generated dungeons, power-ups, and enemies, making it a highly addictive experience.
- Why You Should Play It: Infinite replayability with a blend of action and humor.
- Performance Tips: Use medium settings on the GPD WIN MAX 2 for a good balance of visuals and performance.
- Best Features on Handhelds: GPD WIN MAX 2’s ergonomic controls are ideal for Isaac’s fast-paced, extended play sessions.
These indie games are perfect for your portable gaming computer, each offering something unique for players on the go. Whether you’re using a GPD WIN 4, WIN MAX 2, WIN Mini, ONEXPLAYER X1 AMD, or ONEXPLAYER X1 Mini, these titles are sure to deliver immersive experiences.
What are your best indie games on handheld gaming PCs?
We hope you enjoy this list of the top 10 best indie games on handheld gaming PCs. Let us know in the comments your favorite indie games for mobile gaming or any other recommendations. Happy gaming!
