5 Popular Steam Games Developed by Indonesian Game Publishers

The Indonesian gaming industry has been making waves recently thanks to its groundbreaking stories that draw into local culture and unique take on technology. Additionally to dominating the domestic industry, its game publishers have begun to make waves on the global gaming scene, especially on Steam. This popularity is driven by the mix of engaging stories, unique gameplays, and cultural richness that allows the ever-diversifying audience to enjoy games from Indonesian creators. This article will discuss five popular Steam games developed by Indonesian game publishers, each reflecting the blooming creativity within the country's gaming community. The games we'll discuss include DreadOut by Digital Happiness, NSFW ~ Not a Simulator For Working by GameChanger Studio, Coffee Talk by Toge Productions, Nusakana by Studio Namaapa, and Pamali: Indonesian Folklore Horror by Storytale, with Maple Whispering Limited as co-publisher. These titles showcase the versatility and talent of Indonesian developers, offering players experiences that range from spine-chilling horror to reflective narrative simulations.

1. DreadOut

Publisher: Digital Happiness

Developer: Digital Happiness

The frightening atmosphere and captivating tale of the survival horror game DreadOut have taken over the gaming industry. DreadOut was developed and published by Digital Happiness, an Indonesian game publisher known for immersive horror experiences, using Indonesian folklore and ghost stories. The player controls Linda, a high school student caught in a village of malevolent spirits with her pals. She must capture images of the ghosts and weaken them with her smartphone. This horror game's profound link to Indonesian culture sets it apart. To offer a taste of Indonesian culture, the game incorporates ghosts and other strange creatures from Indonesian folklore. DreadOut's Steam popularity has elevated Digital Happiness and Indonesian game publishers as publishers of high-quality, culturally rich horror games.

Read also: 10 Popular Global Games with Indonesian Translation

2. NSFW ~ Not a Simulator For Working

Publisher: GameChanger Studio

Developer: GameChanger Studio

NSFW, or "Not a Simulator for Working," is a computer game that makes fun of the modern workplace. The company GameChanger Studio made and released this game, which gives players a unique look at the everyday grind of working in an office. Instead of stressing productivity, the game tells players to avoid working by doing anything.

It's nice to get away from the dull real world and enjoy NSFW's pixel art style and strange sense of humor. For some people, NSFW is appealing because it can turn boring work into a fun game. This game is fun for people who like casual, playful games because the rules are easy to learn and fun to play. The game NSFW (Not a Simulator For Working) by GameChanger Studio has made the studio a creative powerhouse among Indonesian game publishers.

3. Coffee Talk

Publisher: Toge Productions

Developer: Toge Productions

Coffee Talk delivers a soothing and thought-provoking gameplay experience, crafted by the well-respected Indonesian game publisher, Toge Productions. Set in a reimagined Seattle where humans, elves, orcs, and other fantastical beings coexist, players assume the role of a barista in a quaint coffee shop, where they serve beverages and delve into the personal stories of the varied characters they encounter, each bringing their own unique struggles to the table.

Coffee Talk distinguishes itself by stressing narrative and character development. Through its fanciful environment, the game investigates ideas of loneliness, love, and the human condition. Coffee Talk is a favorite among story game enthusiasts because of its peaceful environment, lovely pixel artwork, and relaxing soundtrack. Coffee Talk on Steam's success not only revealed Toge Productions' skill but also the possibilities for Indonesian game publishers to produce compelling, story-driven experiences.

Read also: How Indonesian Game Localization Boosts ROI (2024 Update)

4. Nusakana

Publisher: Studio Namaapa

Developer: Studio Namaapa

Enjoy a tropical setting in Nusakana, an open-world role-playing game that mixes fishing, life simulation, and exploration. Nusakana is a charming island teeming with colorful people, secrets, and missions, created and released by Studio Namaapa. Whether one wants to spend their time fishing, creating, or befriending the locals, the game's non-linear gameplay lets them do it their way.

There is a strong cultural impact from Indonesia on Nusakana, particularly in its narrative, music, and visual style. It reflects the easygoing nature of island life, giving players a calming break from the chaos of contemporary living. A tribute to Studio Namaapa's talent at crafting compelling settings is Nusakana's popularity on Steam. The success of Nusakana, an independent game, has demonstrated the talent of Indonesian game publishers and developers to create original entertainment, especially for role-playing games and simulation enthusiasts.

5. Pamali: Indonesian Folklore Horror

Publisher: Storytale, Maple Whispering Limited

Developer: Storytale, Bandung

One terrible horror game that explores Indonesia's rich and frequently horrifying culture is Pamali: Indonesian Folklore Horror. Storytale created and published Pamali, a collection of horror stories inspired by various elements of Indonesian tradition, in collaboration with Maple Whispering Limited. Based on traditional Indonesian beliefs, the game's episodic approach lets players investigate a wide range of supernatural occurrences, such as cursed objects and haunted houses.

Pamali stands out because it is genuine. Taking the spiritual and cultural importance of the folklore presented in the game very seriously, the developers spared no effort in doing so. Fans of horror films all across the globe have raved about the picture because of the meticulous attention to detail that went into making it. Among Indonesian game publishers, Pamali stands out for its narrative, ambiance, and cultural relevance; horror game enthusiasts should not miss it.

Read also: 5 Best Publisher Games in Indonesia 2022

Conclusion

Thanks to these five Steam games, Indonesian game publishers are becoming more influential on a global scale. From the dark and foreboding DreadOut and Pamali to the humorous and reflective Coffee Talk and NSFW ~ Not a Simulator For Working, every game has its own distinct experience. These games are a reflection of the cultural history that influences them and a showcase for the talent and originality of Indonesian developers. Collaborating with local talent can be a game-changer for game developers and publishers seeking to extend their footprint in Indonesia. Whether you need assistance with localization or distribution in the Indonesian market, Digital-Trans Asia has you covered. If you are interested in partnering with Indonesian game publishers or exploring this dynamic market, Digital-Trans Asia is the right choice for you. Don’t wait any longer to reach more players in Indonesia; get in touch with Digital-Trans Asia now to launch your game there!