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Top small indie games that hit it big in sales

Indie Game Success Stories | Notable Titles Making Waves

By

Sofia Patel

Jan 8, 2026, 06:12 AM

Updated

Jan 8, 2026, 06:13 AM

2 minutes needed to read

A bright and colorful depiction of popular indie games with characters and gameplay scenes, showcasing creativity and success in gaming.
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A growing conversation among players reveals impressive earnings from small indie games, with figures and insights shared on various forums highlighting their journey in a tough market. This trend showcases how indie developers are navigating financial landscapes while funding their creative projects.

Indie Game Revenue Insights

Recent discussions show players eager to discover which small games have turned a profit. Titles like Hollow Knight, Vampire Survivors, Minecraft, Thronefall, and RimWorld have emerged as notable successes. Each of these titles underscores how factors like dedication and timing play into their financial achievements.

"My first one did pretty well. Has funded my team for almost 2 years now and weโ€™re still putting out updates for it," one developer noted, emphasizing the rewarding aspects of indie development.

Interestingly, Vampire Survivors was mentioned as an accessible game that has earned significant revenue despite its simplicity, proving that often straightforward concepts can strike a chord with gamers.

What Drives Indie Game Success?

Developers suggest that hard work often separates successful projects from failures. Often, commitment and past experience influence outcomes. "Asterisk is key; successful developers usually put in tons of effort and have previous experience," a comment highlighted.

Recent comments reflect a mix of positivity, noting how strong community support through platforms enhances visibility and player engagement. According to experts, this collaborative spirit is critical as indie titles continue to rise through social media promotion.

Common Trends in Earnings

  • Minecraft: Sold around 400 million copies, setting a high bar for indie success.

  • Hollow Knight: Continues to be celebrated for its design and execution.

  • Thronefall: Benefits from a reputable publisher backing.

  • Vampire Survivors: Gaining attention as a cost-effective game that rakes in revenue.

  • Idle Pixel Fantasy: Only earned about $15K, displaying the earnings variability.

Developers have pointed out discrepancies between figures reported on platforms like Steam and those from revenue estimation websites, influencing how new creators approach entry into the market.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Hollow Knight shines as a celebrated success.

  • โ–ฝ Vampire Survivors is easy for new developers to create yet profitable.

  • ๐Ÿ” "Thereโ€™s a site for revenue estimates, but take them with a grain of salt!"

The Future of Indie Gaming

As the scene evolves, a more significant number of small indie titles may achieve mainstream success. Developers are honing their marketing skills and community engagement strategies, as reports reveal that around 60% are actively using social platforms.

This trend suggests that alongside established games, a wave of fresh ideas and innovations could soon hit the market. The shared journeys of indie developers inspire persistence among aspiring creators, reminding them that beginnings can lead to impactful outcomes.

"Almost every big indie started small. It's worth sticking through the grind."

As 2025 unfolds, the indie game landscape remains vibrant, pushing back against the notion that only big studios can dominate. Through passion and hard work, many more developers stand poised to redefine the gaming realm.