Dr. David’s Indie Roundup: Dino Run 2, Elliot Quest, Final Exam, and Jazzpunk

There's never a bad time to be an indie game fan. With so many new developers out to prove that they can hang with the rest of the industry, and countless smaller teams that are already established and just love working on new projects, it seems there's always something for the fans. Today on the Indie Roundup, we're going to take a look at a few different games, two of which are Kickstarter projects with loads of potential. If you dig offbeat and unique gaming experiences, the four games showcased here may be worthy of your attention.

So without further delay, let's talk indie games!

Dino Run 2 stampedes all over Kickstarter

PixelJam is currently toiling away on a follow-up to Dino Run, the studio's colorful pixelated platformer where you guide a dinosaur across various locales as you escape impending doom. Dino Run 2 will feature multiple dinosaurs for you to choose from, each with their own strengths and weakness. In addition, you'll be escaping extinction across several eras, from the days of the dinosaurs all the way to modern times. Oh, and yes, you will once again be able to decorate your dinosaur with different hats.

A Kickstarter campaign has been launched to help with development costs. PixelJam is asking for $175,000 in pledges and is offering multiple rewards including a download of Dino Run 2, soundtrack, and art book. The game is being developed for the PC, Mac, Linux, and Ouya, and iOS and Android versions are expected to land six month after.

If you loved the first Dino Run, or if you're curious about Dino Run 2, check out the game's Kickstarter page for more info.

Elliot Quest takes its Zelda 2-inspired adventure to Kickstarter

For some time now, Ansimuz Games has been working on Elliot Quest, a 2D action-adventure game influenced by Zelda 2: The Adventure of Link. Already the game's been on the receiving end of much praise due to its lovely pixel art. Seriously, the game looks absolutely wonderful, and any game that takes after one of the most underrated Zelda titles of all time is definitely worth noticing.

While an alpha of Elliot Quest is currently available, the team is moving forward with the project on Kickstarter. Ansimuz is hoping to get $4,000 (Canadian) and is offering copies of the game, soundtracks, and even your very own in-game statue. Worth noting is the $40 tier reward, which includes a download of Cloaks & Spells, another Ansimuz endeavor.

Check out the Elliot Quest Kickstarter if you're interested. You can also purchase the alpha for $4.99 on IndieGameStand, or give a vote to Elliot Quest and Cloaks & Spells on Steam Greenlight.

Final Exam takes the fight to the monsters

For a lot of young people, high school teachers are kind of like monsters. That's almost what Final Exam is like; except you're taking on actual monsters instead of angry, bitter teachers. The game, developed by Mighty Rocket Studio, features weapons-based action gameplay for up to four players. You can take on monstrous baddies with your buddies locally or online. The whole thing looks like it could be a cartoony good time, so if you're into brawlers and shoot 'em ups, this game could be a solid choice.

Final Exam is out this week on Xbox Live Arcade, PlayStation Network, and Steam for $9.99.

Jazzpunk trailer will make you wonder what the hell's going on

If you've yet to watch the latest trailer for Jazzpunk (which you can find below), I'll let you do so now. It's okay, I can wait. Okay, there? So yeah, that's Jazzpunk, and it looks absolutely insane, which is always a good thing. The upcoming title has this old school detective film vibe to it that really stands out, and there's a nice amount of comedy seen throughout.

Rather than focusing on puzzles, this adventure game puts emphasis on crazy gadgets and open-world exploration. It's a nice change of pace in a genre that normally likes to pick at your brain with tough problem-solving.

You can pre-order Jazzpunk now for $15 through the game's official site.

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