In the future, large megacorporations have taken over the monopoly of video game development. They have practically patented most of the most modern mechanics. Indie developers have been relegated to using old-fashioned royalty-free mechanics. They can also use patented mechanics with strong monetary or time restrictions. 

Without the payment of a corresponding deposit, players are limited to playing the same game for a short period of time. This is why indie games look like an agglomeration of demos with different mechanics and artistic styles.