

I would’nt be able to speak to what is cool but I’ll share some newer titles that seem to capture the current trend.
Shadowdark is the ultimate Old School Renascence game using the style and sensibilities of classic D&D while updating it to use modern mechanics that make it more approachable.
In Mythic Bastionland you begin as a young knight errant, seeking the glory to lead warbands, earn a place in court, and rule your own domain. Glory is found in hunting the Myths of this world, manifesting them into reality while protecting the Realm from their strange influence.
Mothership a sci-fi horror RPG where you and your crew try to survive in the most inhospitable environment in the universe: outer space!
Urban Shadows is an urban fantasy tabletop roleplaying game in which mortals and monsters vie for control of a modern-day city in a political battleground layered just under the reality we think we know.
I think its a pretty great time for smaller publishers so finding something that fits the genre your group is looking for.
I know you said no DnD clones but Draw Steel and Daggerheart are pretty good alternatives, Draw Steel is very tactical where as Daggerheart has some meta aspects that help storytelling.











Land of Eem sounds like it could be a good choice, “the game combines Lord of the Rings high fantasy epicness with a heavy dose of Muppets-like whimsy and a dash of Mad Max dystopia.” They have a free quickstart so you could try it out.