view hidden games steam

# Exploring Hidden Gems: Unveiling Steam’s Overlooked Games

Steam is a colossal platform for PC gaming, boasting thousands of titles across a multitude of genres. While popular games often dominate discussions and sales charts, many hidden gems lie in the shadows, waiting to be discovered by players willing to dig a little deeper. In this article, we will explore the concept of hidden games on Steam, why they deserve attention, and some notable titles that have been overlooked.

## The Landscape of Steam Gaming

Launched in 2003, Steam has transformed the way gamers access and experience video games. With its user-friendly interface, regular sales, and a vast library, it has become the go-to platform for many gamers worldwide. However, the sheer volume of available games can be overwhelming. Every week, new titles are released, some of which quickly rise to fame while others fade into obscurity. This dynamic creates a unique challenge for players who wish to discover innovative and engaging titles that may not have received the marketing push they deserve.

## What Defines a Hidden Game?

A hidden game on Steam can be characterized by several factors: low visibility, few reviews, minimal player engagement, or simply a lack of marketing. These games often have unique mechanics, compelling narratives, or artistic styles that don’t conform to mainstream trends. They may also be developed by smaller indie studios or even solo developers who lack the resources to promote their work effectively. Identifying these titles requires a willingness to explore beyond the surface.

## The Importance of Discovering Hidden Games

Exploring hidden games is not just about finding new entertainment; it’s about supporting creativity and innovation in the gaming industry. Smaller developers often take risks that larger studios shy away from, leading to fresh ideas and experiences. Moreover, discovering these games can foster a sense of community among players who share recommendations and insights about lesser-known titles.

### Playing Against the Norm

Hidden games often challenge conventional gaming norms. They may experiment with gameplay mechanics, storytelling techniques, or art styles, offering players experiences that differ from mainstream AAA titles. This experimentation can lead to groundbreaking innovations that inspire future games. For instance, a game like *Undertale* redefined how narrative and gameplay can intertwine, creating a unique experience that diverged from traditional RPGs.

### Supporting Indie Developers

By purchasing and playing hidden games, players provide crucial support to indie developers. Many of these creators pour their hearts and souls into their projects, often working with limited budgets and resources. When players choose to engage with these games, they contribute to a more diverse gaming ecosystem. Success stories like *Hollow Knight* and *Celeste* show how indie titles can thrive and even compete with mainstream offerings when they find their audience.

## How to Find Hidden Games on Steam

Finding hidden gems on Steam requires a proactive approach. Here are some strategies to uncover these titles:

1. **Browse User Reviews**: Check user reviews for games that are not in the top charts. Often, players share their thoughts on lesser-known titles, providing insights into what makes them special.

2. **Explore Tags and Categories**: Use Steam’s tagging system to filter games by genre or theme. Look for tags that resonate with your interests and explore titles within those categories.

3. **Follow Curators**: Many Steam curators focus on indie games or specific genres. Following these curators can lead you to hidden gems that align with your tastes.

4. **Participate in Forums and Communities**: Engage with gaming communities on platforms like Reddit, Discord, or Steam discussions. Players often share recommendations and discuss underrated titles.

5. **Check Seasonal Sales and Bundles**: Steam’s seasonal sales frequently highlight indie games and lesser-known titles at discounted prices. Game bundles from platforms like Humble Bundle can also introduce you to excellent games you may have missed.

## Notable Hidden Gems on Steam

Now that we understand the significance of hidden games and how to find them, let’s delve into some notable titles that have flown under the radar but are well worth your time.

### 1. *A Short Hike*

*A Short Hike* is a charming exploration game that invites players to hike, climb, and soar through a beautiful island. With its relaxing gameplay and delightful art style, this indie title encourages players to explore at their own pace. The game’s emphasis on discovery, coupled with heartwarming interactions with quirky characters, creates a memorable experience that resonates with players seeking tranquility amidst the chaos of more intense gaming experiences.

### 2. *Return of the Obra Dinn*

Developed by Lucas Pope, *Return of the Obra Dinn* is a unique puzzle game where players assume the role of an insurance investigator tasked with solving the mystery of a ghost ship. The game’s distinct monochromatic art style and innovative gameplay mechanics challenge players to piece together the events that led to the ship’s demise. With its gripping narrative and intricate puzzles, it stands as a testament to the potential of indie games to deliver compelling storytelling experiences.

### 3. *Gris*

*Gris* is an artistic platformer that tells the story of a young girl dealing with loss and emotional turmoil. The game’s stunning visuals, accompanied by a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, create an immersive experience that transcends traditional gameplay. Players navigate through various environments, unraveling the narrative and experiencing a range of emotions. *Gris* exemplifies how video games can serve as a medium for artistic expression and emotional exploration.

### 4. *Slay the Spire*

*Slay the Spire* is a deck-building roguelike that has garnered a dedicated following since its release. Players choose a character and ascend a spire filled with enemies and challenges, crafting unique decks to overcome obstacles. The game’s strategic depth, combined with its addictive gameplay loop, makes it a standout title in the indie game landscape. Despite its success, it often remains overshadowed by larger roguelikes.

### 5. *Celeste*

Though it has gained some recognition, *Celeste* is still considered a hidden gem by many players. This platformer tells the story of a young woman named Madeline as she climbs a mountain, facing both physical and emotional challenges. The game’s tight controls, challenging gameplay, and touching narrative resonate with players, making it a remarkable experience. Its themes of perseverance and self-discovery set it apart from typical platformers.

### 6. *Owlboy*

*Owlboy* is a visually stunning platformer that combines exploration with engaging gameplay mechanics. Players control Otus, a young owl who cannot fly, as he embarks on an adventure to save his village. The game’s pixel art aesthetic and heartfelt story create a captivating experience that highlights the importance of friendship and bravery. Despite its high production values, *Owlboy* has not received the mainstream attention it deserves.

### 7. *Firewatch*

Set in the Wyoming wilderness, *Firewatch* is a first-person adventure game that focuses on narrative and character development. Players take on the role of a fire lookout named Henry, who communicates with his supervisor, Delilah, via radio. The game’s stunning visuals and immersive storytelling create a gripping experience that explores themes of isolation, love, and regret. Its emphasis on dialogue and choice makes it a standout title for players seeking meaningful narratives.

### 8. *The Witness*

*The Witness* is a first-person puzzle game set on a mysterious island filled with intricate puzzles. Players must solve these puzzles to unlock new areas and uncover the island’s secrets. The game’s stunning visuals and thought-provoking design encourage exploration and contemplation. While it has received critical acclaim, its niche appeal may cause it to be overlooked by mainstream audiences.

### 9. *Hollow Knight*

Although it has gained popularity, *Hollow Knight* remains a hidden gem for many players. This Metroidvania-style game invites players to explore a beautifully handcrafted world filled with challenging enemies and intricate lore. The game’s tight controls, stunning art, and atmospheric soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Its success story demonstrates how indie games can rise to prominence through word-of-mouth and community support.

### 10. *Baba Is You*

*Baba Is You* is a unique puzzle game that allows players to manipulate the rules of the game itself. By pushing blocks that represent different game mechanics, players can create their own solutions to puzzles. The game’s innovative design and clever level layouts challenge players to think outside the box. While it may not have the mainstream appeal of other puzzle games, its creativity sets it apart as a hidden gem worth exploring.

## Conclusion: Embrace the Adventure

The gaming landscape is vast, and while popular titles often dominate discussions, the hidden gems on Steam offer unique experiences that can enrich our understanding of gaming as an art form. By exploring these lesser-known titles, players can support indie developers, discover innovative gameplay mechanics, and engage with meaningful narratives.

As you embark on your journey to find hidden games on Steam, remember that the adventure lies not just in the destination but in the exploration itself. So, dive into the depths of Steam’s library, and you may just stumble upon your next favorite game, one that was waiting in the shadows for you to uncover it.

how to hide an app on your phone

In today’s digital age, smartphones have become an integral part of our daily lives. We use our phones for various purposes such as communication, entertainment, and even productivity. With the vast number of apps available on app stores, it’s no surprise that most of us have multiple apps on our phones. However, there may be certain apps that we would like to keep hidden from prying eyes. Whether it’s for privacy reasons or to maintain a clutter-free home screen, knowing how to hide an app on your phone can come in handy. In this article, we will discuss various methods to hide apps on both Android and iOS devices.

Why would someone want to hide an app on their phone? There are several reasons for this. Some people may want to keep certain apps hidden from their children or other family members. Others may want to hide apps that contain sensitive information such as financial or personal data. Some may simply want to declutter their home screen and keep only the most frequently used apps visible. Whatever the reason may be, knowing how to hide an app on your phone can give you more control over your device.

There are several ways to hide apps on your phone, depending on the type of device you have. Let’s start with Android devices. Android is an open-source platform, which means there are various methods to hide apps on these devices. One of the simplest ways to hide an app on an Android device is by using the built-in app hide feature. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open the app drawer on your Android device by swiping up from the bottom of the screen or tapping on the app drawer icon on your home screen.

2. Find the app you want to hide and long-press on it. This will bring up a menu with several options.

3. Select the “Hide app” option from the menu. This will hide the app from the app drawer and your home screen.

4. If you want to access the hidden app, simply search for it in the app drawer or use the search bar on your home screen.

Another way to hide apps on Android devices is by using third-party launchers. Launchers are apps that allow you to customize your home screen and app drawer. Some launchers, such as Nova Launcher, have a feature that lets you hide apps. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Download and install a third-party launcher from the Google Play Store.

2. Open the launcher and go to its settings by long-pressing on an empty space on your home screen and selecting “Settings.”

3. Look for the “Hide apps” or “App hiding” option and select it.

4. Select the apps you want to hide from the list and save your changes.

5. The hidden apps will no longer be visible on your home screen or app drawer. You can access them by searching for them in the app drawer or using the search bar on your home screen.

Apart from these methods, there are also apps available on the Google Play Store that can help you hide apps on your Android device. These apps work similarly to third-party launchers and allow you to hide apps from your home screen and app drawer. Some popular apps in this category include Hide App-Hide Application and AppLock, and Calculator Vault.

Now let’s move on to iOS devices. Unlike Android, iOS devices do not have a built-in feature to hide apps. However, there are still a few ways to achieve this. One way is by using the “Restrictions” feature on iOS devices. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open the “Settings” app on your iOS device and go to “General.”

2. Scroll down and select “Restrictions.”

3. If you haven’t set up restrictions before, you will need to create a passcode. Make sure it is a passcode that you can remember as you will need it to access the hidden apps.

4. Once the passcode is set, scroll down to the “Allowed Content” section and select “Apps.”

5. Toggle off the apps you want to hide from the list. This will hide the apps from your home screen and app library.

6. To access the hidden apps, go back to the “Allowed Content” section and toggle the apps back on.

Another way to hide apps on iOS devices is by creating app folders. This method may not completely hide the apps, but it can make them less noticeable on your home screen. To create a folder, follow these steps:

1. Long-press on the app you want to hide until it starts to shake.

2. Drag the app on top of another app to create a folder.

3. Name the folder something innocuous, such as “Utilities” or “Productivity.”

4. Drag the app you want to hide into the folder.

5. Repeat this process for other apps you want to hide.

6. The folder will now appear on your home screen, and the apps inside it will not be visible unless you open the folder.

There are also third-party apps available on the App Store that can help you hide apps on your iOS device. These apps work similarly to the ones on the Google Play Store and allow you to hide apps from your home screen and app library. Some popular apps in this category include App Hider- Hide Apps Hide Photos and App Hider-Hide Apps Hide Photos Calculator.

In conclusion, there are various methods to hide apps on your phone, depending on the type of device you have. Whether you have an Android or iOS device, you can keep your apps hidden from prying eyes by using the built-in features, third-party launchers, or apps specifically designed for this purpose. It’s important to note that while these methods can make apps less visible, they may not completely hide them from someone who is determined to find them. It’s always a good idea to use additional security measures, such as passcodes or biometric authentication, to protect your sensitive apps and information. With a little effort, you can easily hide apps on your phone and have more control over your device.