Bored and in need of some entertainment? Explore the world of locally made games! One of these games may be the one for you, and trust us — they can get addictive real fast.

1) Cat Quest

Like cats? Appreciate a good, cheesy pun?

That’s great, because Cat Quest has both!

The action role-playing game, developed by The Gentlebros, was released in 2017 and is currently available on various platforms, including Steam, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and mobile devices. In it, you play a cat on a quest to save the world of Felingard from an evil dragon. The game features a large open world to explore, real-time combat, and a charming art style that will appeal to players of all ages.

If you play it and can’t get enough, here’s some good news: Cat Quest 2 is available (and features a dog)!

2) Chinatown Detective Agency

Point-and-click games let you interact with a game’s environment or scenes to solve puzzles. They’re great for those who want a non-combat game, or if you prefer narrative-centric games.

In Chinatown Detective Agency, you play Amira Darma, a private investigator in 2032 Singapore. The game features a unique cybernoir setting and a cast of interesting characters to interact with. Players must solve puzzles and investigate cases to progress through the game’s story. Unlike typical point-and-click games, this one requires you to do real-world sleuthing — unless you happen to be an expert on Egyptian mythology.

It’s quite cool to see spot iconic landmarks and how they’ve changed!

3) Stifled

I am not a horror fan but if you are into them and darker-toned games, this could be the one for you. Developed by Gattai Games and available on Steam, Stifled has won several awards for its innovative use of sound as a gameplay mechanic.

 In Stifled, David Ridley must use echolocation to navigate a dark and dangerous world. The game features a unique gameplay mechanic where players must make noise to see their surroundings. Beware, though: making too much attracts enemies!

4) Songbird Symphony

Want a cute but slightly challenging game?

Let Birb help! Birb is the game’s main character, and you control him as he goes on a self-journey to discover his identity and place in the world. You use rhythm-based mechanics to solve puzzles and progress through the game’s story: Birb’s quest needs him to collect musical notes and sing in tune with the other birds and animals he’ll meet.

Songbird Symphony’s charming art style, heart-warming story and cute characters will appeal to players of all ages. It’s also an unexpectedly fun way to learn more about avians, as all the species you see in-game are real!

5) Disney Melee Mania

 
 
In Disney Melee Mania, players can choose from a variety of characters to battle against each other in fast-paced, 3v3 action-packed multiplayer battles. The game features colourful graphics and a fun soundtrack, and it’s the first multiplayer online battle arena game that’s Disney-themed. Levelling up unlocks access to more character perks such as costumes, skills, and more.

You’ll spot familiar faces such as Buzz Lightyear, Elsa, Mickey Mouse and Moana!

Released in 2022, Disney Melee Mania is exclusively available on Apple Arcade. Apple Arcade requires a subscription, which will set you back by approximately SGD7 per month.

 5) The Singapore Dream

Many of us already know of this card game, but it certainly deserves a mention for how uniquely Singaporean it is!

In The Singapore Dream, players must build their own Singaporean dream by collecting cards and making strategic decisions. The game features a humorous take on Singaporean culture and politics, with cards featuring Singaporean twists such as “sabo” and “safe distancing”. If you need a game that’s relatable across all ages, this is the game to store at home.

While the original game came out in 2018, there is a new version incorporating COVID-19 and other iconic moments from 2020. Do check that out!

All these games offer a variety of gameplay experiences that are worth trying out. Cat Quest, Chinatown Detective Agency, Stifled, The Singapore Dream, and Disney Melee Mania all offer something different for everyone, from RPGs to fighting games to card games. So go ahead and give them a try!