8Bit/Digi

MAGWest 2024 was not just about entertaining panels and live music but also a chance for indie devs to showcase their work. During the weekend, I got to try some amazing indie titles that are out now or coming soon. This includes beta versions, demo versions, and full builds of the overall game.

These are some of the indie games I got to check out during my weekend at MAGWest 2024.

Indie Games of MAGWest 2024

Starbright Agency is a visual novel developed by Thoughtful Bread, inspired by My Hero Academia, but set against a City Pop-inspired backdrop with a matching soundtrack. The story follows Wishbright, an aspiring hero striving to become the #1 in Neo Seattle, but struggling to rise through the ranks—until her manager suggests she boost her popularity by dating a high-ranking hero.

During my demo session, I was introduced to Wishbright and some of the game’s major heroes. I picked up facts about them through dialogue and their overall tone in each scene. Accompanying my journey was an original City Pop soundtrack that perfectly set the mood.

Fraiser Fantasy is a JRPG adaptation of the acclaimed sitcom that was developed by a small team under the leadership of Edward Joseph. It takes a standard setup from an episode of Frasier and adds in the gameplay of a classic JRPG. Complementing everything is the GameBoy-style graphics.

The premise is that Dr. Fraiser Crane needs to prepare for a minor dinner party. His tasks are to get his father out of the apartment for the night, record an episode of his radio show, and retrieve a pair of grapevine scissors from Niles Crane. However, completing tasks won’t be easy as Frasier will need to complete a series of tasks while battling those who stand in his way.

The game is currently available to play for free on Itch.io.

So This Vampire Walks into a Bar is part visual novel, part bartending simulator. Players assume the role of Jackie, a new bartender at Frankie’s Lair. However, there’s a catch—the bar caters to vampires. So if Jackie mixes the wrong drink, they could end up as the meal of the night. Players will have to mingle with each customer while learning how to make their drinks correctly. Creating the ideal balance between strong narrative and engaging puzzles based on the real world.

Did you get a chance to check out any of these games at MAGWest 2024? If so then share your story in the comment section below.

Disclaimer: MAGWest provided me with a panelist badge as I also hosted an event for the weekend.

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides insight into the gamer community of the San Francisco Bay Area.