A Journey Through Indie Games with Shirokori, the Vtuber Who Delivers ‘Fun’

The Nostalpix Interview series, introducing ‘Indie Game Developers & Players to Watch,’ kicks off with the introduction of Shirokori, a Vtuber who runs the YouTube channel ‘Shirokori Games.

Shirokori, a Virtual YouTuber overflowing with love for indie games, has captured the hearts of many.

Debuting as a Virtual YouTuber (hereafter referred to as Vtuber) in 2020, she was captivated by the unique charm of indie games and has since focused her activities around them.
She has served as an official influencer for indie game events and appeared as a guest on radio programs. Additionally, she is a member of the organizing team for Indie Life Streamers, a relay-style showcase dedicated to indie games. Her contributions to the industry show no signs of slowing down.

For indie game fans, she offers “connection,” and for those unfamiliar with indie games, she provides “discovery.” She is a must-watch Vtuber for anyone looking to dive into the thriving world of indie games.

Play These Games at the End of 2024! Highly Recommended Best Indie Games That Were Absolutely Amazing 【Steam/Nintendo Switch/PS4/PS5/Xbox】

In 2024, Shirokori played over 300 indie games.
She has posted a video showcasing her carefully curated top 10 picks after much deliberation.
Her calm voice and soothing tempo draw viewers into the world of indie games. Her thorough exploration of each title and clear explanations make you think, “I want to know about the next game too!”
For anyone wondering which indie game to play next, this video is a must-watch.

【#Indie Life Streamers Slot 7】Showcasing and Playing 3 Unique Indie Titles! “Sea Fantasy,” “Serial World,” and “Aden”

Shirokori is involved as an organizer in the streamer-focused indie game showcase event, Indie Life Streamers.
In this event, seven streamers take turns showcasing games in a relay format, with Shirokori closing out the lineup. She thoroughly highlights the appeal of the highly anticipated indie games Sea Fantasy, Serial World, and Aden.
You can watch the entire Indie Life Streamers series on her YouTube channel, “Shirokori Games,” via the dedicated playlist. Why not explore the event to find streamers and indie games that resonate with you?

【Shirokori GOTY Announcement】Part 1: Presenting the Steam Awards Nominees Chosen by Everyone! Packed with Recommended Games!

The viewers of “Shirokori Games” are all passionate indie game enthusiasts.
These dedicated fans submit games they find “exciting” through surveys, and Shirokori introduces all of them in her streams.
Building her channel together with her viewers, Shirokori’s streams are always lively and filled with comments.
The games featured are all unique and intriguing indie titles, guaranteed to make your wishlist (a feature similar to favorites on Steam) grow in no time!

Indie Game Q&A!

This time, we conducted a Q&A-style interview with Shirokori, an active figure in the indie game industry.
She shared her thoughts on the charm of indie games, her perspective as a streamer, and even her personal favorite titles.
What kind of insights and stories will she reveal? Be sure to read until the end!

— Why did you start streaming indie games?

Shirokori:
When I first started streaming, I didn’t even know the term “indie games.” However, thanks to my viewers and followers on X (formerly Twitter), I gradually became aware of them.

At first, I was playing them without realizing it, but when I started paying closer attention, I noticed that many of the games I was drawn to were indie games. From there, it naturally led me to focus my activities on indie games.

— Do you have a theme or policy (motto) for your activities?

Shirokori:
My theme is sharing the unique fun of indie games! I focus on uncovering the distinct charm and interesting points of each game, and I prioritize enjoying them together with my viewers.

— What is the most memorable indie game you’ve streamed so far?

Shirokori:
Devotion
It’s a first-person horror adventure game that combines beautiful 3D graphics with terror.

The story takes place in 1980s Taiwan, following an ordinary father from a family of three as he navigates a spiritual world to uncover the truth. The game’s detailed recreation of Taiwanese culture and everyday life is incredible, and the exploration feels almost like a walking simulator.

What left the biggest impression on me were the visuals that conveyed the characters’ mental states so vividly. The artistic graphics and the overwhelming impact of the final scene left me speechless. It’s the most chilling and moving game I’ve ever played.

— Do you have a special attachment to pixel art games (including retro-style ones)?

Shirokori:
I enjoy pixel art adventure games like VirtuaVerse, Lacuna, and The Cosmic Wheel Sisterhood. The simplicity of the style stimulates the imagination and offers a depth that’s truly captivating. Games with meticulously crafted details are like works of art to me.

— What are your thoughts on relaxing or nostalgic games?

Shirokori:
I love relaxing games that allow you to unwind after using your brain. For example, I often play games like TOEM, a photography adventure, and Luna’s Fishing Garden, a laid-back idle game. Playing such games between more intense sessions is an essential way to recharge.

— What do you think is the difference between indie games and AAA games?

Shirokori:
AAA games are, of course, packed with all kinds of exciting features, and I enjoy many of them. Indie games, however, often have unique and distinctive qualities that deeply resonate with specific audiences. They frequently offer satisfying experiences in shorter play sessions, which is a charm I’ve completely fallen in love with.

— How do you select the indie games to feature in your streams?

Shirokori:
I choose games based on whether I think I’ll genuinely enjoy them, without being influenced by trends.

For videos, I select story-driven games that I can immerse myself in while playing solo. For live streams, I prefer games that can spark engaging conversations with my viewers and further highlight the game’s appeal.

— What do you pay attention to when featuring indie games in your streams?

Shirokori:
I make sure to thoroughly understand the theme and features of each game. I carefully read the store page and play the game with attention to detail.

— What was the first indie game you played?

Shirokori:
The first game I purchased on Steam was Stardew Valley. Since I’ve always loved Harvest Moon, it was refreshing to experience a nostalgic game like that on PC. It was also my first encounter with the MOD culture.

— Is there an indie game you think everyone absolutely needs to know about?

Shirokori:
Chicken Police – Paint it RED!
This noir adventure game is set in a world of anthropomorphic animals with stunning black-and-white graphics. The realistic animal heads on human bodies might be jarring for some, but the story itself delivers a classic noir narrative.

The intricate details in the world design, animal costumes, and textures are outstanding, and the Japanese localization perfectly adapts to the animal-centric world.

— What is the charm of indie games for you?

Shirokori:
The biggest draw of indie games is finding titles that feel like “this was made just for me!” Even if they have flaws, their bold and unique charm makes them lovable. I hope to keep discovering such strikingly original games in the future.

— Are there any indie games you’re planning to play?

Shirokori:
I’m very interested in Outer Wilds and Unreal Life, both of which have received overwhelming praise. I’ve already purchased them and am just waiting for the right time to dive in.

— Do you have any game recommendations for Nostalpix readers?

Shirokori:

• Aeruta: A delightful combination of 2D action and bakery management! The charming pixel art moves smoothly, and the perfectly balanced battles and character interactions provide a soothing experience.
• 7 Days to End with You: A language mystery adventure where you decipher the words of a mysterious girl in front of you. It’s initially challenging but becomes incredibly engaging once you start understanding. It’s a game that will stick with you long after you’ve played it.
• GOODBYE WORLD: An adventure game that alternates between story and puzzle-platformer gameplay. The detailed animations, sound effects, and carefully crafted elements draw you deeply into the story.
• Melon Journey: Bittersweet Memories: A nostalgic adventure game set in a cute, animal-filled town. Despite its adorable appearance, it hides bittersweet truths beneath the surface.

— Can you introduce yourself to those learning about you for the first time?

Shirokori:
Nice to meet you! I’m Shirokori, an indie game-focused Vtuber passionate about sharing the unique charm of these games!
I upload videos daily at 7 PM and host live streams on weekends. If you see me playing a game that catches your eye, please drop by!

— Do you have a message for your fans (Shirokori listeners)?

Shirokori:
Thank you so much for always supporting me!
I’ll continue sharing not just games that I find interesting but also those recommended by my viewers. Together, let’s create a space where we can share the joy and excitement of discovering great games!

— What message would you like to convey through the Nostalpix article?

Shirokori:
What I value most in my activities is connecting with people and enjoying games together. My focus on indie games, the care I put into my streams, and my bond with my viewers form the foundation of my work.

I hope this article conveys my passion for streaming and indie games. If any of the games I’ve shared catch your interest, I’d be thrilled. Please feel free to visit my channel anytime!

— Thank you very much!

Profile

Shirokori continues to share the charm of indie games every day, spreading joy together with her viewers.
If you’re interested, be sure to subscribe to her channel, “Shirokori Games,” and explore the world of carefully selected indie games she highlights!

Writer: Nerikeshi