If you follow me on YouTube, you’ll know that I did a year-long series in 2025 playing every game from UFO 50. It was quite the task that I was happy I completed. However, I did have to rush toward the end because there were so many games I was playing and the series was not as consistent as I wanted it to be. Another reason why I am going to slow down a little in 2026.

That being said, playing every single game was amazing because I was able to experience so many different full game genres from one piece of software. It is an incredible work of game development and I applaud the folks at Mossmouth for a job well done.

There’s also actual lore contained in the universe of the game itself. Here’s what Mossmouth says:

If you have a retro itch but don’t want the hassle of emulation, ROMs, etc., I would HIGHLY recommend it. It is $24.99 on Steam, which is about $0.50 per game!! What a value!

Feel free to check out my series on YouTube if you want to see all the games. I’ll link to the my favorites down below. Let me know in the comments if you have any favorites from UFO 50. See you on the next one!

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2025 was a great year for gaming. Probably one of the best in the last decade. I don’t have proof of this claim. It’s mostly vibes, but I’m pretty sure 2025 will go down as “one of them ones”.

Just look at games like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Regardless of how you feel about what went down during awards season, you cannot deny its cultural impact. It was my personal GOTY, and I imagine it was for most people. We may not see it now, but I think in 10–15 years game developers may cite Expedition 33 as the catalyst for their game, like Final Fantasy and Persona did for others in recent history. If you want my full thoughts on the game, as well as my Top 10 for 2025, see the video below!

Now we’re in 2026, and it’s a great opportunity to break old habits and form new ones. You all know the phrase.

Whatever that looks like for you, I hope you commit to it and not fall into the statistic of the 80–90% of people who break their New Year’s resolutions in the first few weeks. Start small and work your way up.

I have some of my own, but what are they in terms of gaming? That’s a good question. Here are 3 approaches I’m taking to gaming in 2026.

One Roguelike a Month

My most played genre is roguelikes. Hades really opened my eyes to that world, and I have gone off the deep end. I played so many roguelikes last year. Over 30 of them in fact. While it was great to play so many, I wasn’t able to fully immerse myself in the world and the gameplay. One of the reasons why Hades was so appealing to me is because it was the only roguelike I played for a long time. I learned so much of the lore, systems, and builds to make it through a full run many times.

In an effort to get back to that, I am choosing to focus on one roguelike per month. Any content related to roguelikes for that month will be focused on that game. I’m choosing to alternate between a new and old roguelike. It’ll help with the backlog clearing lol.

This month I’m playing VOID/BREAKER. An insanely fun FPS roguelike that was made by ONE person. Feel free to join me in this game. I’ll announce the next roguelike at the end of the month.

Less Games, More Thoughts

I think a lot of people felt overwhelmed by the volume of games this last year. If you cover games in any way, you especially feel that. The rush to be first to market with a review, impression, etc. is always present so that you can reap the rewards of engagement. I felt that myself, especially when Silksong came out. I wanted to be part of the conversation so much that I felt like I was rushing through the game. It was also the case with any other game I tried to review on time. I just wanted to make content, but never fully immersed myself in the experience of the game.

For this year, I may not review or play as many games as I did last year, but I will have more in-depth thoughts about the games I play because each month I won’t play as many. I may miss the “cultural moment” of a game when it releases, but I’d rather spend the time to share my thoughts rather than rushing and not fully being immersed. To quote Persona 5:

Finding the Diamond in the Rough

My focus has been all about indie games, so I’m already in the trenches, but as we’ve seen, indies have made huge strides this year. I was very fortunate to play a lot of the cream of the crop when it comes to indies, but what about that banger that only has 10 Steam reviews?

I hope to dive into that this year and even look on itch.io to see what could be found there as well. My goal for my content, both here and on YouTube, is to highlight indie games that will not see the love they deserve. Of course, it will all be subjective, but I hope whoever sees my content finds something that interests them and supports indie devs. I’ve found a lot of great games from people who have done the same thing I want to do. I want to give back and support this ever-growing community of passionate artists, developers, musicians, content creators, writers, and whatever else is out there. Case in point, a roguelike called Death Kid came out in April, but only has 9 Steam reviews. Here’s my video on it.

These three approaches aren’t groundbreaking, but these will help ground me and prevent future burnout. There’s a lot happening in my life that is far more important than gaming. I don’t want gaming to add to my already current stress. I want my play sessions to be relieving in a way that is satisfying for me personally and creates content that people will enjoy.

What is your gaming life going to look like this year? Let me know in the comments. Appreciate you reading, and I’ll see you on the next one.

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Among all the many awards given out at the 2025 Game Awards (mostly to Expedition 33 lol), there were a number of different game announcements for games in the near and far future. Not all of them were hits in my opinion, but there were a few that I got really excited for. Here’s a list of my favorite announcements.

The Free Shepherd

Developer: Frame Interactive

Publisher: Frame Interactive

Run fast and free as a sheepdog in a beautiful but troubled world. Herd masses of lost sheep to a secret refuge. Discover a mysterious calamity that only you can stop.

I’ve played a few immersive sim games this year and they have been a breath of fresh air among all the action games I usually go to. The Free Shepherd looks really good and seems to be very massive in scale based on the trailer. Unfortunately we may not see any more until 2027, but perhaps a demo will be sooner than we think.

Coven of the Chicken Foot

Developer: Wildflower Interactive

Publisher: Wildflower Interactive

After the dungeons have been plundered and the monsters all killed, an elderly witch quietly gets to work. In this emotionally-rich, stylized, single-player adventure - Gert will need to build a bond with a peculiar creature if she’s to fulfill a coven’s oath.

This is not your typical protagonist and I like this. I’m really interested to see how the story plays out. Also, this is the studio’s first game!

Bradley the Badger

Developer: Day 4 Night

Publisher: Day 4 Night

Bradley, the beloved platforming icon, finds himself lost in strange new lands... and decides to fight back! Shape unfinished worlds with your game developer powers, explore a genre-bending story, and save your home in this unique action-adventure. Wishlist now and join Bradley’s journey!

Holy cow the trailer for this was amazing! This looks to be the next big platformer in kind of like Astrobot was. Alot of unique abilities I saw, but I have no idea how the “real life” segment is going to play into it. Doesn’t matter cause this looks awesome! I can’t wait to put hands on this!

Control Resonant

Developer: Remedy Entertainment

Publisher: Remedy Entertainment

Explore a warped Manhattan on the brink of paranatural annihilation in this thrilling action-adventure RPG. Unleash the extraordinary powers of Dylan Faden as he fights for his humanity and our survival against a reality-bending cosmic threat.

I’m a fan of Remedy, but outside of the Max Payne games, I haven’t played anything else. After seeing the trailer for this, I think it is time to change that. Fortunately, there is a MASSIVE sale on the first Control game as well as a big sale on a bundle that includes the first Alan Wake with DLC. A perfect time to get into the franchise before this comes out.

Saros

Developer: Housemarque Games

Publisher: PlayStation Publishing

SAROS is an action game with the haunting story of a lost off-world colony on Carcosa under an ominous eclipse. You play as Arjun Devraj, a powerful Soltari Enforcer who will stop at nothing to find who he is looking for.

This is not a new announcement as we already saw Saros earlier this year, but after looking more at the game, the more I got into it. Just like Control, the developers did create a prior game I need to play called Returnal. Looks like I’ll be busy for a while lol.

Orbitals

Developer: Shapefarm

Publisher: Kepler Interactive

Team up as explorers Maki and Omura to brave the perils of space and save their home from the dangers of a supernatural cosmic storm. As you navigate uncharted areas, close collaboration is vital - remember, you can only save your home by working together!

It is a shame that this is a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, cause I would love to play this one! I’m sure it’ll come to PC at some point, but I’ll just have to be jealous for now. I love the retro anime vibes!

2026 and 2027 look to be continuing the fantastic run that 2025 has been on for video games. I can’t wait to see what else is announced. Did you have a favorite? And what did you think of The Game Awards in general? Let me know your thoughts in the comments. See you in the next one!

I actually completed the game in two sessions, but I didn’t want to make these posts very long. Enjoy this last installment! Read to the end to see my final thoughts.

TOEM is a fairly short game, but that doesn’t mean that it lacks quality. I’ve very much enjoyed my time with this game and am glad the community came together for this one.

Again, join the Discord! We’ve already picked the game for December. Here’s a sneak peek.

The final stop on this adventure is the snowy area of Kiiruberg. Immediately you are met with the cold making you shiver and the snowflakes on your camera. If you’re going for 100% completion, you’ll need to make sure you collect all the clothing items. That includes a set of climbing boots.

One thing I forgot to mention in my last post is that you’ll get the ability to honk a horn on your camera. It was used to clear out birds in Stanhamn, but for this region it’ll be used to clear out icebergs. How can a camera horn do that? Don’t ask questions and take more pictures.

The funniest thing upon entry was a balloon family having a birthday party for their son who accidentally flew off cause he wasn’t tied down. Poor little guy, we gotta find him!

You’ll hear a goat choir, see the world’s largest snowball, and come across a yeti who wants something just as fluffy as he is.

You would think stamp count would be high for this area, but you actually don’t need that many to ascend to the Mountaintop. I think that is because the puzzles are a little more spread out and require more exploration and being aware of your surroundings. It really does make sense to play this with mouse and keyboard as it was a lot easier to navigate the map to find those hard to reach areas.

Technically, Mountaintop is the final area of the game, but I count it as part of Kiiruberg. It is funny how you get there as the bus swoops down on a rope and carries you up. Once you reach the top you are greeted with the splendor that is TOEM. I found it fitting to use the game logo as a frame for my last photo. Like A Short Hike, it truly is a wonder and the game makes it a point to make you feel that moment as the only color of the game shines. It was magical and it made me wonder what it is really like when you reach the top of a real mountain.

The credits do roll afterward, but you are able to have a moment with Nana to frame your photo of TOEM in your house. A nice bookend to your journey. Enjoy the footage!

Final Thoughts

I’m so glad this game was on the list for this month cause I probably wouldn’t have played it otherwise. Clearly I didn’t as I had no idea about it for years. There’s actually a sequel set to release next year so maybe the Gaming Club will pick it up then. I like fun short gaming experiences like these as they don’t overstay their welcome. The only points of criticism I would put towards TOEM is that it can be too similar in tone to A Short Hike with the journey to the mountain and the quirky characters. Obviously you are taking pictures versus flying, but the vibes are similar. I don’t really mind it, but I would not blame you if you felt that way.

I hope you played this for yourself or at one point. Next month will be a lot of fun as we’ll get to play a game I really liked a few years ago. Let me know in the comments your thoughts and I’ll see you on the next one!

Welcome back to the LP! If you don’t know why I am playing this game, see the previous post for context as well as some early gameplay.

The holiday season is upon us, and it is nice to have a good cozy game to play while you are trying to warm up by sipping some tea. I’m really enjoying this game. This reminds me so much of the vibes of A Short Hike, and it is fun interacting with the different characters.

Our story now moves into the beachy area of Stanhamn, and with that brings a new feature. Once you see how many stamps you need, you get a new feature added to your camera called Filters and Frames. They are exactly what they look like. There’s not a huge variety of them, but it is fun to see a picture of a very pixelated bird inside of hearts or a picture frame.

You’ll also stumble upon the HQ of the Photo Challenge Guild. In this room you’ll be able to track your progress amongst all the challenges in each major area of the game.

FYI, you can go back to other areas anytime you want. It is not as linear as you think.

I still had my ghost-seeing glasses on as there were some ghosts to find. Not sure why one would need a sandwich, but who am I to question that? Just like with the last region, there are specific clothing items that will allow you to reach certain areas. In Stanhamn, you’ll need to find the Diving Helmet to go underwater. There’s some fun things to see.

It was fun hanging out on the beach and taking photos of fish, dogs, and shy hippos, but I’ve now fulfilled my stamps and it’s time to continue on my journey. Next stop, the big city!!

The next stop is the busy metropolis of Logcity. Immediately you are met with construction workers standing around a partially dug hole, subway art, and a man wanting to clean items for you.

Actually, remember that man for later.

Once you make your way up the escalator, there’s a bunch of people running around the busy street. Where are they going? I have no idea, but this is very on brand for what city life is like. I do like the contrast from the earlier locations. Sure, this is still a cozy game, but the presence of Logcity gives this game a little bit more flavor. Speaking of flavor, you’ll run into an aspiring foodie content creator taking photos of food with her. You’ll also go on a date with a ghost? Idk, it’s fun lol.

There are other things to see and take pictures of with your camera with the added flair of filters and frames, but you can see for yourself in the gameplay below. Overall, these are fun locations, and we’re already near the end. Let me know if you’re playing TOEM as well. See you on the next one!

2026 is gonna be an interesting time for gaming hardware. Valve recently added more hardware to the already impressive Steam Deck. If you’ve been tapped into Valve for a while, you’ll know that this isn’t their first time at this, but it seems they’ve learned a lot of lessons given how cool they look.

Here are my thoughts on each in order of their importance to me.

Steam Frame

I am not a VR gamer. I once tried my buddy’s HTC Vive years ago and while I had a good time, it was not anything I would buy for myself. I feel like VR has always been a niche category for gaming ’cause I can’t imagine anyone spending long hours doing that without getting sick. I just don’t think the technology is there. Maybe I’m wrong, but I’ll pass for now.

That being said, the Steam Frame looks good, and the fact that you can stream directly to it without the need for cameras is a nice feature. I hope it fits well and has a solid battery life!

Steam Machine

It’s amazing how everyone collectively started calling this the “Gabecube” ’cause it really is that. I LOVE how this looks and the customization that you can do with the front and the LED light. What’s more exciting is that this is also a fully functioning PC.

There seems to be a shift into more console/PC hybrids with an emphasis on TV gaming rather than office gaming. The Steam Machine is a perfect fit for that and more.

If I didn’t already have a higher-end gaming PC, I would get this on Day 1. For now, I’ll wait to see how it does when it releases. It would be nice to have something sleek like that in my living room, but that domain belongs to the whole family and I’m the only gamer. At least for now. Perhaps when my kids get older and are interested, we can talk about it. But I’d rather they touch grass anyway.

Steam Controller

I NEED this now! It’s crazy how this was my favorite announcement even over the Steam Machine. I’ve never tried the original Steam Controller so I’m not tainted by the experience some people had. I’m sure some people liked it, but it looked very awkward to me.

The Steam Deck really helped Valve create the best controller for your entire library. And yes, that even means games that do not have controller support. If the price is right, I may even get two of these. Why two? ’Cause what if they come in different colors?

Steam Deck

I’ll be honest. A big part of this post was so I could share my experience with the Steam Deck. I’ll start at the beginning so you understand how much of a fan I am of this device.

Back in 2019, I purchased a Nintendo Switch. I sold my PS4 for it. My first kid was just born, and I wanted something more mobile to play while she napped. The first game I had was Zelda: Breath of the Wild and I had a blast with it. My Nintendo library continued to grow and it was great being able to go from dock to mobile at any point. I truly saw the future of what gaming looked like for me.

The Switch was a big part in my content creation journey, but then as it grew, I wanted to do more. Especially in the indie scene. I got a low-level gaming PC and started a Steam account. Little did I know how much indies would affect me. See the post below if you want to know more about that.

As my Steam library grew, I saw less need to use my Switch and all the games I wanted to play were now locked down to the PC I kept in my office. I needed a way to get back to the mobility that I had before.

Enter the Steam Deck.

The Deck had been out for a couple years already, so I knew about it. But I kept going back and forth for the longest time. After some research and a few YouTube videos later, I finally decided it was time to make the change. I sold my Switch and several other devices to pay for the Steam Deck. In March of last year, my Deck arrived, and I got to work.

I think I’ve put more gaming hours into this device than my own PC. I have found so much freedom and mobility with the Steam Deck. I would not have been able to play and beat so many games this year without it. Sure, it’s not as powerful as it could be, but for the games I play it works perfectly. There are also many features that I have used on the Deck that have opened up new avenues of gaming. I won’t say them out loud, but if you know, you know. The Steam Deck is the way forward for me.

The Future of Gaming

I’ve heard it said that we’ll be entering the “Platform Wars”. It’s more of an expansion of the Console War, but now companies will have entire ecosystems to play every game on the devices they create. It’ll be more about keeping users on their services rather than just a console.

I personally am not interested in any of that. To me, all gaming is good gaming and it should not matter if it’s on Nintendo, Sony, Microsoft, or PC. As the saying goes, “different strokes for different folks”. Valve made a big move last week and it makes 2026 more interesting in the hardware space. I really hope the prices aren’t too high. Based on the Steam Deck, I am optimistic that Valve will be reasonable and be able to be competitive in this market.

What does my gaming future look like? I think I’ve reached my end goal with gaming hardware. I have a solid high-end gaming PC that can play even the most demanding AAA titles. I obviously have the Steam Deck for AA and below. And I even have an RG36S for some good old retro-style gaming. Maybe I’ll upgrade in a few years or see what happens if Steam Deck 2 is announced. I am truly satisfied in a way that I haven’t been in a long time. It’s an amazing time to be a gamer.

What about you? Are you satisfied with your gaming hardware? Or did Valve’s announcement open your eyes to your own gaming future? Let me know in the comments. See you on the next one!

Welcome to The LP! I will be using this format to chronicle my journey of a game from start to finish. You’ll see screenshots along with exclusive gameplay from me only found here. Enjoy!

Welcome to my first game I am doing in this series. It seems fitting that my first LP on Substack would be for the Gaming Club. There are a lot of fun and creative people there. And you should join. has been recruiting like crazy lately. For this month’s game we are playing a popular puzzle game from 2021 called TOEM.

As with the start of games, the first session is about learning the controls while immersing you in the world. I really like the style of TOEM. Even though it is all black and white, the world feels full of life that you can almost imagine what it would be like if it were color.

I normally try to game on the controller when I sit at my PC, but this game felt better on mouse and keyboard. As soon as you wake up you are ready to start your adventure. Your Nana hands you your camera and you are ready to start taking photos.

I was reminded a lot of Pokémon Snap from the N64 era. I was taking pictures of everything I could, but then I realized that you could take pictures of specific things to match the Compendium. This for sure encourages exploration of the area. You are also introduced to the stamp system to move on to the next area via bus. Get the required amount of stamps and then you can move on. The only areas I visited for this first part were Homelanda and Oaklaville.

Oaklaville was fun and I’m already liking the fun and quirky dialogue for each animal, scout and ghost you encounter. It was funny to see my character get hats, shots and glasses to complete the SWAG fit to get into the party lol. The music is also really chill and it is fun to swap using the Walkman (or Hikelady) and gathering cassettes. The tripod is gonna be a game changer and I can’t wait to see how that expands. I’m not a completionist, but I’m feeling the urge to fill out the Compendium and get every stamp before I move on.

I’m enjoying my time with TOEM so far and I hope you join us. I’ll leave you with some extended gameplay. See you in the next session or on another post!

I am not a gambler, nor do I endorse gambling. The only time I tried was penny slots on a cruise ship when I was in college. I bet a maximum of $5 and lost it all pretty quick. That is when I knew I was not built for this.

So why does a slot machine video game have me so addicted?

Well, I think the first reason is that other than buying the game, I’m not spending my own money. Second, unlike your traditional slot machine that kind of looks ugly in my opinion, the art of Slots and Daggers looks really good. But let me back up a bit and talk about the game itself.

A retro mini-roguelike inside a slot machine. Steady your blade—and spin!

A very short description, but it is exactly what it looks like. Slots and Daggers is developed by Friedemann. This is the same dev that created Pizza Possum in 2023 and SUMMERHOUSE in 2024. I actually own both of those games as well. I did a video on SUMMERHOUSE on YouTube if you want to check that out.

Friedemann has a knack for really good pixel art, and it shows in every aspect of this game. From the art on the table to the small little details in each environment, you can tell he took a lot of time perfecting something that was already really impressive in his last game. It also helps that the game stays on the same table the whole time.

The gameplay is based on the RNG of a slot machine, but you are fighting for your life through a series of dungeons. Each biome has a number of different enemies like goblins, orcs, knights, gunslingers, bugs, dinosaurs, and demons. There is a great amount of enemy variety that keeps me engaged. Each enemy has a set amount of health that goes into the thousands. They can do physical and magic damage, heal themselves, trap, or even remove one of your slots for the whole round. They are all very aggressive from the moment you start the game.

How do you combat these odds?

You have a selection of offensive, defensive, and utility weapons for your slots to begin your run. After you make your first three choices, you are then at the mercy of the slot machine. At first, your options of slots and weapons are limited, but after each win, you get coins that pile up on the left-hand side that you can use to buy more weapons, upgrades, and power-ups that you can use in-round for coins. You’ll also notice that you will get chips after each win. Those chips can be used on modifiers after you die and have to start over. The modifiers play a MASSIVE role in helping you progress. I highly recommend getting the modifier that adds more slots ASAP.
Just like any roguelike, as you grow in power, your build potential gets insane to the point where you are making coins on every hit while stunning and applying poison to your enemy and healing yourself all at once.

Oh, and if you get three in a row on any weapon, it does crit damage or applies a massive boost to any heal or utility item.

For as mini as the description says, there is some depth and strategy to this game even with the nature of this being based on a lot of luck. There are skill-based weapons, a power-up that slows down spins, the ability to repeat spins, and double up on previous spins. That is another reason why I can’t put this down, because I want to see how busted my build can be making it to the final room.

I’m playing a lot of fun roguelikes right now, and Slots and Daggers is up there for me for 2025. If you are not convinced yet, here’s some gameplay for you.

Let me know how you feel about Slots and Daggers in the comments. Hope you enjoyed the read, and I’ll see you on the next one!

Then the reality set in.

It is difficult to break into that world without it consuming your very being. You really need to eat, sleep, drink and breathe classical music.

And practice ALOT.

Around the time of grad school, I starting breaking into other genres. I played alot of jazz and joined my local church worship team. I started losing my interest more in classical music and decided to go a different path after I graduated.

Long story short, I have played many different genres of music around my local area, in the US and beyond. I’ve had some really cool opportunities to perform in front of large crowds.

Then I became a dad.

Holding my child for the first time was a truly surreal experience. Luckily I’ve been blessed enough for that to happen two more times. In short, I’m a father of three (GIRLS btw :D).

Gigging around town was not going to cut it for me so I had to slow up on live shows.

But I needed a musical outlet.

I had made music on my own for a while. Even created a SoundCloud. Here’s an example of one of those tracks.

I started making more that eventually turned into a Spotify page.

Then my passion for gaming was renewed in a major way. Thanks Hades.

I used the music I’ve made as background music for my gaming videos. Now both of my interests have been satisfied and I can continue to create and innovate.

Enter Blackthornprod.

I’ll spare all the boring details since Blackthornprod released a video with me in it.

Watch the whole video, but my portion begins at 5:55.

Since that video, I was inspired to do more with the knowledge and experience I have.

Time to open the flood gates.

Since this video has been posted, I’ve gotten messages from devs to work on projects they are creating. I’m equally humbled and excited to combine music and gaming in a way that I did not expect.

What are those projects? You’ll have to wait and see.

If you are reading this and need someone to create music for your game (or anything really). Hit me up. I’ll gladly work with you.

Happy Halloween! I’m sure you all have trick-or-treating plans or some spooky-related event you’re attending. For the last few years, my family has done a theme costume. Our kids are young, so we don’t have many chances left before they outgrow it. This year, we decided on Wicked. My oldest is Glinda, the middle one is Elphaba, and the youngest is the Cowardly Lion. Nothing’s better than a baby in a lion suit. My wife is the Scarecrow, and I’m the Tin Man. What’s great about my costume is that it’s just a gray sweatshirt and a paper hat. I love a cozy fit.

How does that relate to the games I’m playing? It doesn’t. But that’s a little peek into the world outside. Onto the games!

I’m a weenie, so I don’t play a lot of horror games. This is the only time of year I’ll do it, so don’t expect this until next year, lol.

These games come from an interesting European based developer called Worst Event. I love part of their description in their YouTube bio:

A medical doctor and a data scientist who have been quitting their job since 2023!

They have several games available, but I’ll highlight two for this spooky day.

Cherophobia

You find yourself stranded in a forest after your car breaks down. A short psychological horror game.

Here’s a brief definition of the word Cherophobia:

That’s really interesting and makes sense once you understand the narrative of the game.

As the description says, you are a doctor and your car has broken down in the middle of nowhere. The only things to interact with are the starter and the radio. Then, you see a house in the distance. You knock on the door and a woman answers. She offers help and invites you in. You use the phone, she offers you coffee or tea, and you stay for the night since it’s late.

You wake up to good news that your car is repaired. You go to start your car.

It does not start.

You walk back to the house to tell the woman what happened.

She doesn’t know who you are.

This is where the game gets interesting. This may be a simple point-and-click game, but as you progress, things get stranger. I won’t spoil all that happens, but pay close attention to that radio I mentioned earlier. You’ll be able to get through this game in less than an hour. Maybe more if you want to do the full completionist route.

The voice acting isn’t particularly good, especially from the main woman you interact with. The audio seems to have spliced in different takes, because her voice levels change throughout.

If you want to see more beyond these screenshots, take a look at my gameplay to get a better idea. Let me know what you think!

Do You Have a Moment to Talk About Our Lord and Savior?

A short roguelike deckbuilder! As a missionary, you’re forced into a card game by a wicked man. He promises that if you beat level 13, he’ll set you free. Draw as many cards as you like, but if you pull the same color twice, all your cards burn! Obtain SPECIAL CARDS. Build your deck. Reach level 13!

As a roguelike fan, this one is more up my alley. It immediately gave me Inscryption vibes, but with more of a Saw movie-like tone.

There are very similar assets to Cherophobia. You do start in a vehicle, but it’s a van this time. Instead of it breaking down, you’re going around “spreading the gospel.” Of who? Who knows. Instead of a woman answering the door, it’s a man in a wheelchair.

At first, he seems fairly nice, even though he’s rejecting your efforts to have him listen to your words. He even offers to sit down for some tea and a more lengthy conversation.

You should have left when you had the chance.

You then wake up tied to a chair and being forced to play a card game. Reach level 13 and all is good. Fail to reach it? Face the consequences.

Time to play the game.

The card game is very interesting. You have two categories of attack and defense, with two different colors in each — four total card types. Your opponent has intent to attack or defend at different numbers per round, and it’s up to you to draw the right amount to attack or defend. Attacking causes the poise meter to go up, and after it reaches its threshold, you can perform an instant kill move. The twist is that if you play duplicate cards, your turn burns out — you won’t attack and will receive full damage. That restriction makes the game very punishing, and I lost in the second round.

What happened next had me SHOCKED.

Aside from the ridiculously long title, this game has a surprising amount of depth. The voice acting is better, the music is solid, and the SFX are really cool. I felt that 808 bass sound in my chest when I attacked the enemy. The biggest surprise is what happens each time you lose. The sound design really kicks in!

I don’t want to say much more, but check out my gameplay to see what happens!

Get them for Steam Scream IV

From now until November 3rd, Cherophobia and Do You Have a Moment to Talk About Our Lord and Savior are on sale for Steam Scream IV. They were already pretty cheap, but you can get them for less than a cup of coffee. You’ll get through them both before your Halloween plans even begin, lol.

If you end up picking them up, let me know! I’d love to hear your experience in the comments. Thanks again to Worst Event for supporting my work in covering indie games!

Hope you enjoyed the read! Happy Halloween! Don’t eat too much candy.

Welcome to my first roundup style post. I’ll be making these from time to time as a curated list of indies I find interesting.

I can’t keep up with all the showcases that happen, but thankfully I get notified of them.

Shameless plug for the Discord. Join now!

I’m not familiar with Galaxies Showcase. They seem to be relatively new based the content they have on YouTube. They are UK based and here is a description of them.

Celebrate the future of gaming with Galaxies. Watch our tentpole showcase events live on Twitch and YouTube for exciting game reveals, first-look premieres, and new gameplay moments, or catch the show and other game trailers on demand right here.

This is their second showcase and it looks like they will be doing this every Spring and Autumn.

I’m a big fan of showcases that don’t have too much bloat and get straight into the games. Thankfully this one is only 60 minutes long with a 30 minute post show.

There were alot of games jammed packed into this showcase so here are a few that caught my eye. Let me know if any of them stand out to you!

Leave a comment

MOUSE: P.I. For Hire

Developer: Fumi Games

Publisher: PlaySide

Join private investigator Jack Pepper on a guns blazing, jazz-fueled adventure in MOUSE: P.I. For Hire. MOUSE combines the charm of hand-drawn rubber hose animation inspired by the classic cartoons of the 1930’s with the adrenaline and action of an explosive first person shooter.

Every since the Mickey Mouse license went public domain in 2024, many people have created projects using the likeness of him. Though you may not take it too far according to this.

This game really leans into that 1930s vibe like Cuphead and it looks amazing. It was set to come out this year, but recently the developer delayed it until March 19, 2026. Probably for the best. To many games to play at the moment so glad this one will have a chance to breathe with the time comes.

Windblown: Anniversary Update

Developer: Motion Twin

Publisher: Motion Twin and Kepler Ghost

Dash, dive and defy the Vortex. A lightning-fast, 1-3 player co-op roguelite from the crafters of Dead Cells, where every run is a leap into chaos. Absorb the powers of fallen warriors, rebuild their weapons, and WIPE THE FLOOR with anything that gets in the way of a perfect run.

Windblown released in Early Access one year ago (October 24, 2024) and it has seen a number of updates.

To celebrate one year, Motion Twin released the Lost & Altered update that introduces a fair amount of content. New Biome, New Weapons, New Trinkets, etc..

Full patch notes can be found here.

This gives me a great excuse to boot this game up again. I loved the vibe of Windblown and I’m excited to see it grow. It is set to go 1.0 sometime in 2026.

Rue Valley

Developer: Emotion Spark Studio

Publisher: Owlcat Games

Rue Valley is a narrative RPG about a man trapped in a time loop, surrounded by a colorful cast with complex emotional stories, each hiding unexpected secrets. Dealing with mental challenges, the main character must rise from the depths, delving into the anomaly to uncover its enigmatic origins.

Fans of games like Disco Elysium will be right at home with this time bending adventure. Voice acting make or break games like this, but from what I’ve seen and heard, Rue Valley shouldn’t have that problem.

We don’t have long to wait on this one. The full release is set for November 11, 2025. If you want to check it out now though, the demo is available on Steam.

Denshattack!

Developer: Undercoders

Publisher: Fireshine Games

Flip, trick and grind your train in a fast-paced, off-the-rails ride through a colourful Japanese dystopia. Outmatch rival gangs, wreck a shady megacorp, and take back the tracks with nothing but skill, speed, and style.

I’m watching the trailer for this as a I write this and I’m SOLD. I love the crazy anime inspired train battles that you can get into. It has a little be of that Jet Set Radio style from the Dreamcast era and I’m all about it.

Unfortunately we’ll have to wait on this one until 2026, but maybe we’ll get a demo soon!

Quantic River

Developer: FluidFury interactive

Publisher: FluidFury interactive

Dive into the dystopian world of Quantic River, where frenetic action meets captivating exploration. Master katana combat, unlock cybernetics, slice through environments, hack obstacles, and explore dual-layered levels for speedrunners and explorers.

I tend to be on the outside of the Cyberpunk genre, but sometimes a game hooks me in with it’s visuals and Quantic River does just that.

What is more impressive is this is being made by seemingly one individual out of France. The trailer for this look so amazing and I hope the rest of the game delivers on what it set out to do.

No date set yet, but there is a Kickstarter that is live right now. Click here if you want to back this cool project!

Norigin

Developer: Jugraaj S.

Publisher: JSS Games

Explore mystical realms, fight epic bosses & investigate fragmented memories as you unveil the truth behind your estranged father.

Another solo dev project created by an individual out of the UK. Apparently they work as a pharmacist in addition to making this game (thanks for the info on that). It is so cool to see people take their inspirations and make it their own. The Shadow of Colossus vibes are very present and I can’t wait to see more. No date set right now.

Wishlists go a long way

Those are just a few of the 50 total games shown in the Galaxies Autumn Showcase. Wishlisting these games help the developers immensely and costs you nothing so show them how much you care! Do any of the games I mentioned speak to you? If not, what games did stand out? Here’s the full showcase below If you want to see for yourself. Thanks for reading and have a good one!

Wow! Thanks so much for the love on the last post. Good to see all the love from the community immediately. To follow up on that post and an effort for you to get to know me better as gamer and person, I figured I would talk about the indie games that have shaped me into who I am.

Each one of these games have pushed me more into the indie gaming space. I would not be where I am at without these 5 games. Hope you enjoy the read!

Celeste

I’ve played a fair amount of Souls Games (Dark Souls 1, 2 , 3 and Bloodborne) so I am no stranger to hard challenges and difficulty. When it comes to platformers, my heart wasn’t in it. Sure I played Mario like most kids my age, but I barely beat most of them.

When I was searching for indie games to play, Celeste kept coming up. I put it off for a while and then finally purchased it after I saw a sale on it (shoutout Steam Sales lol).

So I put on my Souls pants once again and started the climb up the mountain.

I died ALOT, but through it all, Celeste taught me to slow down and learn the patterns of each level. The movement is precise and one wrong move can be death, but it is so satisfying to see a level I spent so long on be completed because I took the time to (say it with me now) “GIT GUD”. Celeste taught me that even though my character stats do not increase, my skill does as a player.

It also helps that Celeste has a gripping narrative about mental health and an amazing soundtrack. This opened my eyes to the fabulous work of Lena Raine. Let me know your favorite song from the soundtrack in the comments!

Leave a comment

Gris

I’ve grown really fond of games that tell a story without using words. Gris is one of the reasons why that is the case. If you you’ve played the game before, you know exactly how beautiful this game is. Nomada Studios really nailed the presentation.

Without dialogue, the music and the art carry the whole narrative and it worked out really well.

The only thing that would have made it great for me is a little combat. I’m an action nerd. Fortunately, Nomada’s follow up game Neva does exactly that. Neva was actually my GOTY for 2024. Check out my review of Neva for more context as to why. I’m so grateful to Gris for laying that foundation.

Sea of Stars

I’m going to out myself. I did not play Chrono Trigger. I started it, but I did not finish. I might one day cause the contemporary of that game Sea of Stars was my GOTY for 2023 so I’m pretty sure I would love it.

Sea of Stars has everything I love about RPGS. A cast of fun and unique characters, a compelling narrative, excellent music, and an engaging combat system.

It also trims down the bloat that can be expected from RPGs. In this game, there are no random encounters, no sense of needing to grind, shared XP between party members, and a 30-40 hour run time. I’m married and a father of three with two jobs so I appreciate when a game doesn’t need to overstay it’s welcome.

You can also see the love and passion poured into this game by the developers at Sabotage Studios. Sea of Stars is an outright banger of an RPG. Now is a perfect time to play the game. The free DLC Throes of the Watchmaker came out this summer and it does a great job expanding the world. I hope we see more from this game in the future.

I’ve made a few videos about Sea of Stars on YouTube including spoiler free and spoiler filled videos. Let me know what you think!

A Short Hike

Before I talk about this game, I want to mention the Gaming Club created by my buddy Sey aka . Every month, the community chooses a game to play and we talk about it at the end of the month. Like a book club! We are closing in on the end of October, but there’s still time to join us this month in playing A Short Hike. Join the Discord!

A Short Hike was actually my first real indie game review on YouTube so it has a special place in my heart. I’ve never played a cozy game before this one and it really opened my eyes to the refreshing nature of an easy going low poly adventure game.

Like I said I am an action heavy nerd, but sometimes it is nice to get away from all the challenges, fast paced action, and high stakes quests to something way more relaxing and calm.

I didn’t think I would like this game at first given the quality, but I gave it a shot and now understand the charm behind the art. There’s also a fair a amount of humor from every character that you encounter and has a satisfying payoff at the end when you reach your goal.

I’m on my third playthrough and loving every second of it. Join the Discord if you want chat more about it!

Hades

Where can I even begin to talk about this game? In my first post, I mentioned that I’ve been a gamer all my life. Back in 2018-2019 I kind of fall off gaming for a bit. I only had a PS4 at the time and it console gaming didn’t fit my life as a new dad. So I sold it for a Nintendo Switch. The only game I got was Breath of the Wild. The second game I got was Hades and WOW this game had a profound impact on me.

Hades was my introduction to roguelikes and little did I know at the time that this was the cream of the crop. I spent so many hours and late nights saying to myself “one more run” or “that’s it for tonight” only to get a few more runs in.

Supergiant Games cooked in everyway possible. Music. 10/10. Art. 10/10. Gameplay. 10/10. Characters. 20/10.

This game (along with Monster Hunter Rise) revitalized my gaming passion in my adult life. Let me emphasize a few things.

Without Hades, I would not have learned more about indie games.

Without Hades, Roguelikes would not be one of my favorite genres.

Without Hades, my love of gaming would not burn as bright as it does now.

Without Hades, I would not have made a YouTube channel.

Without Hades, I would not have learned more about video game music.

Without Hades, Bassicfun does not exist.

Conclusion

I am truly thankful to all of these games for shaping me into the gamer I am today. Each one of these embodies a core aspect of the games I choose to play. Gaming is a special kind of medium to me and indie games are leading the way in my journey to share that with others.

Thanks so much for reading. My posts won’t normally be this long, but these games deserve so much for what they have done for me.

What are your most influential games? Could be anything from AAA to indie. Let me know in the comments! Have a great one!

I’ve been having the best time and it feels like this has been the best year for indie games yet.

I joined Substack to follow some friends in the gaming community while wanting a way to write down some of my own thoughts as well. Shout out to , , and (I know I missed more and I’m sorry lol). Some of these thoughts may turn into a video that you can check out on my Youtube channel right here.

I also make my own music that you can check out on Spotify.

More to come from this page as I play and yap all about indie games. Thanks for reading!

Hey there, fellow gamers! Today, I’m excited to share my review of a captivating puzzle adventure game called Dungeons of Dreadrock developed and published by Christoph Minnameier. I’ve been playing this gem for a while now, and it’s finally time to give you all the details. I’ll cover the description, history, positives, negatives, and my final thoughts. Let’s dive in!

Dungeons of Dreadrock is a puzzle adventure game that takes you on a quest to save your little brother. It harks back to the spirit of 1980’s home computer adventure games, recreated for modern audiences and platforms. The game presents you with 100 handcrafted levels, each set in the ancient depths of Dreadrock Mountain. Prepare to relive nostalgic memories of classic dungeon crawlers from a fresh perspective.

The game was initially released on January 31, 2022, and is available on Android, iOS, Steam, and the Nintendo Switch. For my review, I played it on the Switch, where I stumbled upon it during a sale.

The gameplay in “Dungeons of Dreadrock” is deceptively simple but ingeniously utilized. As you traverse through the dungeons, your character moves along fixed tiles, akin to guiding a chess piece on a board. The dungeons may appear compact, but they offer a diverse range of challenges and enemies to overcome. Armed with a sword, you’ll engage in combat and learn to throw items, including your trusty weapon. Each dungeon presents platforms that trigger traps, hidden areas, and teleporters, necessitating your wits to complete the levels successfully.

One clever tip for success is to read the title of each dungeon carefully, as it often contains a core aspect of what you need to do. Hints are available to aid you in progressing through the dungeons, and story beats unfold when you sit at a bonfire, adding depth to the narrative.

There’s a lot to love about Dungeons of Dreadrock. First and foremost, its streamlined design ensures zero time wasted, allowing you to dive right into the action. With 100 levels in total, the game offers ample content, yet it can be completed in just a few hours, making it ideal for shorter gaming sessions.

The modern take on classic character designs and animations is a delightful touch, striking a perfect balance between the old and the new. The dream sequences throughout the game are beautifully executed, adding an extra layer of immersion.

Moreover, the puzzles strike a perfect balance between complexity and simplicity. Some challenges require out-of-the-box thinking, while others offer a more straightforward yet enjoyable experience. Unlike many games that become increasingly difficult as you progress, Dungeons of Dreadrock surprises with later stages that may be easier than earlier ones, adding a refreshing twist.

While there isn’t much to criticize, one minor drawback is that the game encourages shorter sessions, as longer playtimes may blur the distinction between floors, making it slightly tedious. Additionally, on the Nintendo Switch, the controls can feel a bit clunky, leading to occasional stiff character movements and unnecessary jumps or deaths.

In conclusion, Dungeons of Dreadrock is a well-crafted puzzle adventure that delivers creative challenges, entertaining enemies, and an engaging narrative that keeps you hooked. With its bite-sized gameplay, it caters to both casual and committed gamers alike. Despite a few minor flaws, the overall experience is enjoyable and satisfying.

I had a blast playing this game, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a rewarding dungeon crawling adventure. Have you played Dungeons of Dreadroc”? If so, what are your thoughts? If not, I hope this review has piqued your interest! Let me know in the comments. Until next time, happy gaming!

Hello, fellow gamers! Today, we’re diving into the captivating world of indie games on the Nintendo Switch. As a fervent supporter of the indie scene, I’ve scoured the eShop for five intriguing titles that are sure to pique your interest. From puzzle-combat dungeon explorers to emotional first-person narratives, these games promise to offer a wide range of experiences. So, let’s not waste any time and delve into these enchanting creations that have made their way to the Nintendo Switch!

EchoBlade

Developer: Sunset Arctic Games | Publisher: Eastasiasoft

Release Date: July 5th, 2023

Price: $9.99

EchoBlade by Sunset Arctic Games, published by eastasiasoft, is a thrilling puzzle-combat dungeon explorer. You find yourself trapped inside an expansive tower labyrinth, blind and shrouded in total darkness. Your only guide is sound, and you must cleverly navigate your way to freedom. EchoBlade’s unique concept of using sound as your primary tool adds an innovative twist to traditional dungeon-crawling adventures.

Necrosmith

Developer: Alawar Premium | Publisher: Merge Games

Release Date: July 6th, 2023

Price: $7.99

Necrosmith by Alawar Premium, published by Merge Games, offers an indirect necromancer simulator where you must assemble the dead using various body parts while upgrading your tower. Take advantage of the different abilities of fantastic races to combat hordes of enemies and overpower the “chosen ones.” Necrosmith’s mix of strategy and creativity is sure to keep you engaged throughout the experience.

Garlic

Developer: Sylph Arcade | Publisher: Ratalakia Games

Release Date: July 7th, 2023

Price: $14.99

Garlic, developed by Sylph Arcade and published by Ratalakia Games, is a challenging yet delightful platformer adventure. Playing as an onion-headed boy named Garlic, your mission is to climb the Sacred Tower to meet the Cyber Goddess, who can grant your wish. The game features enemies, traps, and innovative platforming mechanics, ensuring you’ll be hooked from start to finish. With a blend of old-school charm and modern gameplay, Garlic caters to both new and seasoned platformer enthusiasts.

ChronoBreach Ultra

Developer: Upsilon Games | Publisher: Ratalaika Games

Release Date: June 30, 2023

Price: $4.99

ChronoBreach Ultra by Upsilon Games, published by Ratalaika Games, is an action-packed platformer featuring a cute robot armed with laser weaponry. Explore a deadly factory filled with traps, enemies, and colossal bosses, all while utilizing unique time-bending abilities. Collect circuits to unlock powerful gear and stylish skins for your adorable yet deadly drone companion. The game’s fast-paced gameplay and intriguing time mechanics will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Inner Ashes

Developer: Calthea Game Studio | Publisher: Selecta Games

Release Date: June 30, 2023

Price: $14.99

Inner Ashes, developed by Calthea Game Studio and published by Selecta Games, is a first-person narrative adventure that takes you on an emotive journey, experiencing the effects of Alzheimer’s through the story of a father and daughter, Henry and Enid. As Henry, you must embark on an introspective quest through dreamlike sequences to remember the reasons behind your estrangement from Enid. The game beautifully portrays the impact of Alzheimer’s through immersive gameplay and puzzle-solving.

There you have it, five incredible indie games that deserve your attention on the Nintendo Switch. Each title brings a unique and compelling experience, catering to a wide range of gaming preferences. Whether you prefer challenging puzzles, thrilling platformers, or heartfelt narratives, these games have something special to offer.

If any of these games have caught your eye, don’t forget to check out the eShop links in the titles of each game. Let me know in the comments which game you’re most excited to try! Until next time, happy gaming!

Welcome back, everyone! Today, I’ll be diving into the world of For a Vast Future, an exciting game that pays homage to classic RPGs while adding a modern twist. In this review, I’ll provide a brief history of the game, describe its key features, discuss the positives and negatives, and conclude with my final thoughts. Let’s jump right in!

For a Vast Future began as a two-man project in 2020 but quickly expanded to include four core team members. This game marks the first time Retreaux Games has collaborated with external contributors, resulting in a truly unique and polished final product. After its release on Steam in 2022, the game found its way onto the Nintendo Switch on May 12, 2023, thanks to the publisher Red Deer Games. Interestingly, For a Vast Future draws inspiration from the beloved Earthbound series, although I personally hadn’t played those games, aside from encountering Ness and Lucas in Smash Bros. Do you think that counts?

In For a Vast Future, players find themselves in Seralia, a world scarred by the aftermath of a prolonged war. While the conflict has come to an end, its wounds are far from healed. As Chel, a precocious teenager, embarks on a cross-country journey, the secrets of a missing generation begin to unravel. Along the way, Chel encounters loyal comrades and otherworldly foes. Though Seralia may lie in ruins, a new day is dawning.

The gameplay mechanics of For a Vast Future feature fast, active-time combat with a turn-based system. Instead of traditional RPG weaponry like swords, the game employs an innovative Ammo system. Each character wields a gun that can equip various bullet types, such as basic, fire, ice, explosion, and pierce, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This strategic element resembles the rules of Pokémon battles. Ammo is shared among the party members, adding an extra layer of tactical decision-making. Defeating enemies rewards you with ammo and items, with opportunities to increase these rewards by improving your party’s skills.

Character customization is a key aspect of For a Vast Future. You have complete control over your character’s stat progression and weapon proficiencies. You can focus on increasing Marksmanship, Armor, or Luck, which affects the number of items you receive after battles. The game also offers a unique Crafting system that allows you to create attack items known as wargear. These wargear items can be used to buff or debuff enemies, enabling unique strategies. For example, combining oil with fire or explosion can exploit an enemy’s weaknesses. Additionally, players eventually gain the ability to traverse the war-torn countryside on a motorcycle, acting as a fast travel option between different locations. Another delightful feature is the option to choose from numerous classically inspired color palettes, giving the game a visually dynamic experience.

One of the standout aspects of For a Vast Future is its intriguing story set in a dystopian world. As I delved deeper into the game, uncovering its lore, I found myself captivated by the state of Seralia and how it came to be. The narrative successfully drew me into its unique universe.

Initially, I had mixed feelings about the main character, Chel, who seemed self-centered and selfish. However, as the game progressed, her personality evolved, providing a refreshing change from the typical idealistic protagonist. The supporting characters — Darr, Tarn, and Pent — further enriched the world through their engaging backstories. I particularly enjoyed witnessing Darr, a robot, overcome his programming.

For those who appreciate RPGs but find their lengthy stories overwhelming, For a Vast Future offers a refreshing experience. The game’s story is short and sweet, providing around 6–8 hours of gameplay, depending on your preferred pace. I personally spent more time exploring and strengthening my party, ensuring I was adequately prepared for the challenges ahead. Furthermore, the limited roster of four characters that you manage throughout the game adds a layer of strategy and connection with the party members.

Combat in For a Vast Future is easy to grasp, especially when you identify an enemy’s weakness and capitalize on it with the right bullet types. The satisfaction of executing effective strategies and witnessing the power of well-coordinated attacks, such as utilizing Desperate Bullets when low on health, adds to the game’s enjoyable combat experience. Additionally, the game boasts a diverse range of enemy designs, from animals and bandits to cultists, robots, monsters, and even ghosts. Each enemy presents unique challenges and requires specific approaches, further enhancing the tactical depth of battles.

While For a Vast Future excels in many areas, it does fall short in terms of sound effects during combat. Unfortunately, the game lacks impactful sound effects for attacking enemies or triggering status effects. This absence detracts from the immersive experience the game otherwise offers. It’s unclear why this aspect was overlooked, but it’s worth mentioning as a minor disappointment.

For a Vast Future is a delightful and concise RPG adventure that pays homage to beloved classics while infusing its unique charm. Whether you’re a fan of the old Game Boy days or simply looking for a modern take on the genre, this game is sure to please. The engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and enjoyable combat mechanics make it a worthwhile experience. I wholeheartedly recommend giving For a Vast Future a try. Hope you enjoyed reading this review and let me know your thoughts. Happy gaming!

Hey there! First post! Woohoo! As a passionate fan of the metroidvania genre, I am always on the lookout for exciting new titles to play on my Nintendo Switch. I want to share with you five upcoming metroidvania (btw the term is a combo of Metroid and Castlevania) games that have caught my attention. From dark and atmospheric adventures to whimsical and nostalgic experiences, these games promise to deliver captivating gameplay, intriguing narratives, and satisfying exploration. Let’s dive in!

Blasphemous 2

Developer: The Game Kitchen | Publisher: Team 17

Release Date: August 24th

Blasphemous 2 continues the story where the Wounds of Eventide DLC left off. Players will embark on a perilous journey, encountering mysterious secrets and monstrous foes as they strive to end the cycle once and for all. The haunting visuals and intense combat make this a highly anticipated sequel for metroidvania enthusiasts. Be sure to wishlist the game and visit the official website for updates.

Summum Aeterna

Developer: Aeternum Game Studios

Release Date: September 14th

Summum Aeterna combines the elements of roguelite gameplay, dungeon crawling mechanics, and fast-paced combat in a unique 2D art style. Assume the role of the King of Darkness as you explore an uncharted world teeming with treasures, traps, enemies, and powerful bosses. While there isn’t much information on the Nintendo eShop yet, stay tuned for updates on the game’s Reddit page.

9 Years of Shadows

Developer: Halbred Games | Publisher: Freedom

Release Date: Q3 2023

Set in a world shrouded in darkness, 9 Years of Shadows tells the story of Europa, a courageous young child determined to restore color, joy, and hope to her desolate surroundings. Armed with her halberd and unwavering bravery, Europa embarks on a daunting quest to venture into Talos Castle, the source of the curse. While the official release date for the Switch version is yet to be announced, keep an eye out for it in the third quarter of 2023.

Little Nemo and the Guardians of Slumberland

Developer: DieSoft Games

Release Date: Q3 2023

Little Nemo and the Guardians of Slumberland is a nostalgic NES-era platformer brought to life with hand-animated frame-by-frame art. Inspired by Winsor McCay’s iconic Little Nemo comics, this game offers a non-linear world where players collect toys, discover enchanting lands, and encounter a colorful cast of characters. Prepare for a trip down memory lane as this game arrives on the Switch in the third quarter of 2023.

BIOMORPH

Developer: Lucid Dreams Studio

Release Date: TBA 2023

BIOMORPH presents a vast and varied world where players must solve puzzles, overcome platforming challenges, and fight deadly monsters. The unique twist lies in the ability to take on the forms and powers of defeated creatures, making each encounter a strategic choice. As players explore the areas surrounding the city, they will unlock new abilities and unravel the truth about their own origins. Keep an eye out for this intriguing metroidvania title, set to release sometime this year.

With a variety of upcoming metroidvania games on the horizon, Nintendo Switch owners are in for a treat. From the dark and atmospheric Blasphemous 2 to the whimsical nostalgia of Little Nemo and the Guardians of Slumberland, there’s something for every fan of the genre. Mark your calendars, wishlist your favorites, and prepare for unforgettable adventures as these games make their way to the Nintendo Switch throughout 2023. Happy gaming!