12 demos from the winter game showcases we can’t wait to try

While the attention this week has been firmly fixed on the Game Awards, there are plenty of other showcases happening where players see upcoming games that can’t afford to advertise during the awards show. The whole Blizzard Watch community has been watching them (and discussing them on our Discord server) and we’re highlighting a few that people are most excited for.
It’s important to note that we only included games that currently have demos available to try out. While titles like Don’t Stop Girlypop, Sleight of Hand, and Recur look intriguing we’re going to need to wait a little longer before we have a chance to try them out. Also note that while we’re linking to demos on Steam, some of these games may be arriving on other platforms besides PC so if you’re a fan of the PS5 or Nintendo Switch you may be able to play them on consoles instead.
Now let’s take a look at our favorite demos from this season’s gaming showcases.
Aikyam
Aikyam is a Bollywood-inspired RPG with turn-based dance battles and fights against demons. Charm villagers to unlock new adventures and get them cheering at your side. This is one of the most unique character designs I’ve ever seen in a game, and it looks like it’s going to be a load of fun.
Winter Burrow
If you were looking for a cozy survival game then Winter Burrow may be for you. Play as a mouse braving the frozen outdoors to collect resources and restore your childhood home. New friends and a warm fire await those who are successful in their adventure.
River Towns
A city-builder with a twist: River Towns is a puzzle game where you rebuild a city by fitting in district pieces with random shapes (ensuring a lot more replayability). It’s not just fitting in the buildings, though, as there are resources you’ll want to grab to help make your city a success.
Wind Runners
Wind Runners is a side-scrolling shoot’em up in the R-Type tradition although with a rogue-like twist as the maps can change each playthrough. You can choose from one of several upgradeable ships with unique weapons to help you dogfight against enemies before engaging challenging bosses.
Travel On, Pigeon!
If you’re a fan of environmental rhythm games like Crypt of the Necrodancer you’ll want to check out Travel On, Pigeon! You play as the titular pigeon bopping and weaving your way through cities collecting souvenirs and trying to avoid humans who aren’t quite watching where they’re going.
Blue Prince
You are the heir of Mt. Holly, but this mysterious manor doesn’t want to stay the same. At each closed door you reach you can specify what type of room is behind it, unlocking puzzles and challenges that help you explore further. But every night the house resets and only permanent upgrades stay for the next day. As you struggle to navigate your way to Room 46 you’ll also discover plots and intrigue that involve the manor.
Crescent County
Crescent County is a life sim where you play as a delivery witch. Upgrade your broom, make (and race!) some friends, and make sure you get all your packages delivered so you can afford to spruce up your home and trick out your ride.
CraftCraft
They are the unsung heroes of your fantasy RPGS: the crafters who help gear up the player. Now it’s your turn to play as one, crafting items for mermaids and adventurers and other quirky locals. Featuring lots of customizations (you can play as a Mothperson!) and multiple endings so your choices matter.
Through the Nightmares
Through the Nightmares is an action platformer where you play as the Sandman and navigate children’s nightmares and face off against Morpheus. Leverage several abilities (including the ability to shrink) to change the environment; changes don’t reset upon death so progress is cumulative. Because the dreams of kids vary so will the zones you have to make your way, including dark forests, the depths of space and even the era of knights — unfortunately everything is trying to kill you so you won’t have time to enjoy it.
Enter the Chronosphere
One of the more interesting concepts we’ve ever seen: a “bullet hell”-style game that’s turn-based. Opponents (and ammunition) only move when you do, so you can plan your way amongst the dangers. Play as a misfit crew of aliens and combine hundreds of weapons and abilities as you navigate your way through paradoxes and time distortions.
Worship
Cult of the Lamb meets Pikmin as you use your blood — or the blood of your followers — to complete rituals that please your god in this stylish ink-drawn game. This twisted take on adventure RPGs has a large world to explore and factions to interact with and the ultimate challenge: bringing about the end of the world.
Kill the Music
We finish off this list with another rhythm game, one that includes environmental music plus interactive notes to power up your instruments as you fight off waves of undead enemies. Like Hades this game is a roguelite so death is just a temporary impediment as your bandmates’ ghosts possess you while your instruments improve and new attack synergies are discovered.
These are just a small number of new demos available, so be sure to check out all the showcases for even more games coming in the next year.
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