No need to dig through Steam’s huge catalog for hours: we’ve done it for you. Here is a selection of 11 free nuggetsto discover without delay for spend a geeky, fun or contemplative Christmasdepending on your mood. No blockbusters here, but games that will leave you with a real memory… without emptying your wallet.
Strange, beautiful, bizarre games… but always captivating
OpenTTD is the oldest of this selection, but also the most addictive. This transport simulator inspired by Transport Tycoon Deluxe has become cult with its giant maps and complex management systems. Perfect for family reunions.
Mitozahe is indescribable. Really. As his presentation states: “It all starts with a seed. Explore all the cycles and prepare to accept the inevitable effects of Mitoza.” No apparent meaning. A little surreal wonder.
In another register, You Will (Not) Remain dives into Lovecraftian horror with a short and poignant story. “Even when you lose hope, there are still small things you can do for yourself and others – and that’s beautiful,” one player wrote. A beautiful narrative slap in the face, in 15 minutes.
Pearls to reflect, escape or just breathe
Samsara Room offers you a dreamlike escape room in a mysterious setting. Ideal for puzzle lovers.
Moon ringcreated by one of the co-creators of Fable, is a huge and demanding old-school RPG, like Ultima or Baldur’s Gate. It’s free… and yet richer than many paid games.
Mushroom Cats ? A sweet adventure about cats living on a mushroom. No stress, no danger, just tenderness and clicks. Perfect for relaxing.
Sprout transforms you into an acorn (yes), destined to become a majestic oak tree. This interactive cartoon tale is as poetic as it is adorable.
Humor, pixel art and a cat who plays the bongo
The Good Time Garden will not suit everyone. “A pulsating pink world filled with bizarre naked creatures,” according to its creators. We warned you: it’s NSFW, but brilliant.
Alpaca Stacka is the exact opposite: a cute game with an alpaca who saves chicks on a colorful island. Yes, it’s as simple and fun as it sounds.
Evo/Wave is a 3D platformer with a retro atmosphere, where you go through the video game story level after level. It’s stylish, short and full of secrets.
And to finish: Bongo Catthe absolute UFO. An idle game with a cat typing on your keyboard. No goals. Just meowing and happiness. And yet, it’s the most played free game on Steam today. Magic.
A 100% free Christmas, but full of discoveries
Whether you have 10 minutes or a whole afternoon, this selection guarantees you a geeky Christmas full of discovery. On Steam, the best surprises don’t always pay off. So why not offer them… to yourself?