Indie studios are small, independent game development companies that create video games without the financial backing of large publishers. These studios often focus on innovative gameplay, unique art styles, and storytelling, allowing them to explore creative ideas that may not fit mainstream trends. Many indie studios operate with limited budgets and small teams, which encourages collaboration and experimentation. Popular examples of successful indie games include Undertale, Hollow Knight, and Celeste, showcasing how these studios can produce critically acclaimed titles that resonate with players around the world.