Want to get into some top Nintendo franchises, but don’t know where to start? This starter guide might be required reading for you!
Sam Martinelli
Sam Martinelli
Sam has been playing video games since his earliest years and has been writing about them since 2016. He’s a big fan of Nintendo games and complaining about The Last of Us Part II. You either agree wholeheartedly with his opinions or despise them. There is no in between. A lifelong New Yorker, Sam views gaming as far more than a silly little pastime, and hopes though critical analysis and in-depth reviews to better understand the medium's artistic merit. Twitter: @sam_martinelli.
After a drama-packed premiere, our writers got together to share our The Last of Us Season 2 impressions so far.
In the latest episode, we go through the best (and worst) video games of 2025 so far, and provide a Fantasy Gaming league update!
Let’s see how The Punished Backlog’s excellent writers feel about that explosive Nintendo Switch 2 reveal!
In this new Punished Notes, Sam talks about the mystery behind Avowed’s dialogue options, what it means when you say a game takes time to “get good,” and more!
In The Punished Podcast Episode 16, we discuss the best old school games, what retro even means, preservation, and much more.
Avowed has taken the gaming world by storm in recent weeks. What do the writers at The Punished Backlog think of Obsidian’s latest so far?
Even when you like a game, buying a mediocre port at full price can feel just a little shameful.
In The Punished Podcast Episode 14, we crown our Fantasy Gaming 2024 winner and host our 2025 draft—with a new dynasty format!
The shadow-drop of Ninja Gaiden 2 Black at the last Xbox Developer_Direct could signal better times ahead for Xbox, giving us something old and new all at once.