Game that actually feels different?

[Jomix]

Most of the games I've tried lately just feel like copies of each other. I want something that doesn't feel like a clone of a game I already played five years ago. Anyone here know of something with a fresh idea that makes you actually want to keep playing?

[FryerTuck12]

That's a valid point. Many games just recycle the same formulas and call it new.

[Olas12]

I was tired of that too, and I didn't think I'd find something different until I came across aviator. At first glance, it looks super simple, but it's actually one of the most unique experiences I've had online. The whole concept is unlike the usual copies of big games, and it gives you a real rush every time you play. What makes it stand out is that it's unpredictable — you can't just follow the same routine and expect the same result. That constant tension makes you want to play "just one more round," and honestly, it's rare to feel that way these days. For me, it's been refreshing to play something that doesn't try to be a clone of something else but has its own identity.

[mark willy]

I totally get what you mean — it's hard to find games that actually bring something new instead of just recycling old ideas. Lately, I've been playing Null's Brawl game, and it feels surprisingly fresh compared to many mainstream titles. Even though it's inspired by Brawl Stars, the custom updates, new modes, and unique features make it stand out on its own. It's one of those games that reminds you how a few creative tweaks can make a familiar formula feel completely new again.

[a1t92t]

If you want to continue discovering unconventional games, you might find it helpful to:
Follow indie developers and publishers: Many of the most innovative ideas come from smaller studios willing to take creative risks.Look into specific game jams: Events like Ludum Dare often result in unique prototypes and concepts that can evolve into full games.Read reviews and articles that highlight "hidden gems": Many gaming sites feature lists of underrated or non-formulaic games.I hope this list gives you a great starting point for finding something new and refreshing! If you're interested in a particular genre, feel free to ask, and I can try to find more specific recommendations for you.
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[a1t92t]

Eastshade is a perfect choice if you want a completely stress-free adventure. You play as a painter traveling across a gorgeous island. The goal is to soak in the landscapes, meet inhabitants, and create art. There's no combat, no grinding for loot, and no map covered in repetitive icons—just a laid-back journey driven by exploration and lighthearted storytelling.
Stone Simulator – Just Be a Rock is the ultimate change of pace. This zen-like simulation has you exist as a rock, watching as the environment, weather, and seasons change around you. It's a meditative experience that embraces its absurd premise with charm and offers a funny, strange, and peaceful way to decompress.
Witchspire aims to be the survival game for people who don't typically enjoy the genre. It drops traditional energy, hunger, and thirst meters at the start, allowing you to focus on the fun parts: building and exploration. You use magic to instantly harvest resources and regrow trees, and you can astral project to get a better aerial view while building your home. The combat also focuses on taming the spirits of defeated monsters to fight alongside you as familiars.
Duet Night Abyss is a noteworthy case of a developer listening to player feedback. Originally designed as a gacha game, the developers completely removed the gacha and stamina systems after beta tests. Now, you can unlock all characters and weapons through straightforward gameplay and crafting. A "Secret Letter Clue" system also lets you work directly toward specific gear you want, eliminating the frustration of unreliable random drops.
Crushed in Time (Coming 2026) is an upcoming puzzle-adventure from the creators of There Is No Game. It introduces an "elastic world" where every element of the environment—from objects to characters—can be stretched, squashed, and manipulated to solve puzzles. This creative, physics-based twist promises a fresh take on the point-and-click genre.


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