An inclusive group of gamers who love to write. Want us to cover a game? Reach us at press [at] punishedbacklog.com.
"The Mermaid Mask is the long-awaited sequel to Tangle Tower, and it raises the bar in every single way," writes @amandatien.bsky.social of the new indie game by @sfbdim.bsky.social @sfbtom.bsky.social (w/ art by @catherineunger.bsky.social!). Read our review: punishedbacklog.com/the-mermaid-...
The Best Video Games of 2026 So Far - We rounded up 18 of our favorites, from the big AAA adventures to the indie gems. Games are highlighted in 🧵! punishedbacklog.com/best-video-g...
The Best Video Games of 2026 So Far - The Punished BacklogSome of the best indie games and AAA games of 2026 are already here! Our list covers 18 (and counting) great video games.punishedbacklog.com@denshattack.bsky.social, out today from Undercoders, @fireshinegames.bsky.social, and Boltray Games, boasts "a vibrant world and cast of characters who have something critical to say." Read more in our full review: punishedbacklog.com/denshattack-... #Denshattack #GameReview
"A great remake of an already tremendous video game." Learn how @assassinscreed.ubisoft.com Black Flag Resynced from @ubisoft.com maintains the heart of the original game while shining even brighter at times. Our review: punishedbacklog.com/assassins-cr... #AssassinsCreed #BlackFlag #GameReview
"Fans of environmental puzzles, delightful character design, and straightforward combat will love Moss: The Forgotten Relic (@polyarcgames.com)." Out this Thursday 7/16 for PC and consoles. Read our review, 8.5/10: punishedbacklog.com/moss-the-for...
The latest episode of The Punished Podcast is here! This time, we dive into the Video Game Hype Cycle, E3 (and not-E3) showcases, and even make up our own showcase full of fake mouse games inspired by @polyarcgames.com 's Moss series. Check it out! punishedbacklog.com/podcast-vide...
Podcast: Discussing E3, "Not E3," and the Video Game Hype CycleIn this episode of The Punished Podcast, we discuss the rise and fall of E3, game trailers, authenticity, and the big bucks.punishedbacklog.comOne month with @paralives.com in early access: Alexia reflects, "Paralives does have a long way to go, but I really believe that we’re in good hands with this one. It’s been worth the wait." #indiegames #cozygames punishedbacklog.com/paralives-pr...
Paralives Preview: Impressions After One Month in Early AccessIn our Paralives early access preview, learn why this indie life sim game is already a worthy alternative to The Sims 4.punishedbacklog.comREVIEW: "If I consider MINI MURDER MYSTERIES (@pointandclickd.bsky.social) as an extended demo of an upcoming game, then it makes sense as a sample platter. As long as you don’t go in expecting a full entree, you’ll have a good time, especially for $4.99." Read: punishedbacklog.com/mini-murder-...
Mini Murder Mysteries Review: A Whodunit Appetizer - The Punished BacklogIn our Mini Murder Mysteries review, learn if this bite-sized mystery game is worth its $4.99 price point.punishedbacklog.comThe Game Boy Advance turned 25 this year! To celebrate this beloved handheld, @sam-martinelli.bsky.social rallied our writers to discuss the best games. (Also does this mean the GBA is retro? 👴👵) From Pokémon to Zelda to Kirby, check out our favorites here: punishedbacklog.com/best-game-bo...
The Game Boy Advanced turned 25 this year! To celebrate this beloved handheld, @sam-martinelli.bsky.social rallied our writers to discuss the best GBA games. (Also does this mean the GBA is retro? 👴👵) From Pokémon to Zelda to Kirby, check out our favorites here: punishedbacklog.com/best-game-bo...
"Fumi Games and @playsidestudios.com have crafted something genuinely special with @mousethegame.bsky.social -- a game so fully committed to its aestheric, its world, and its characters that it's almost impossible not to fall in love with it." Our review: punishedbacklog.com/mouse-pi-for...
MOUSE: P.I. For Hire Review - Case Closed - The Punished BacklogIn our MOUSE: P.I. For Hire review, learn how this infamous first-person cartoon shooter game lives up to the hype.punishedbacklog.comFor 20+ years, the @backyardsports.bsky.social games have uplifted fans and ushered them from childhood to adulthood. At #PAXEast, we spoke with the series' latest steward, Lindsay, about everything Backyard ahead of @megacatstudios.bsky.social's July launch. punishedbacklog.com/interview-li...
An Interview With Lindsay Barnett, CEO of Playground ProductionsAfter years away, Backyard Baseball is back. Ahead of its July 2026 release, I interviewed the new steward of the franchise, Lindsay Barnett.punishedbacklog.com