The first Steam Next Fest of 2025 is underway, and we have games to recommend! From collectathons to cozy games, horror roguelikes to open worlds, don’t miss these Steam Next Fest demos.
The Punished Backlog
The Punished Backlog
A video game outlet that blends quality words with inclusive voices. For business inquiries and review requests, reach us at press [at] punishedbacklog [dot] com.
In honor of Valentine’s Day, we discussed romance in games. Learn our favorite romance mechanics, characters, subplots, and more.
In The Punished Podcast Episode 14, we crown our Fantasy Gaming 2024 winner and host our 2025 draft—with a new dynasty format!
In our Dead Letter Dept. review, we take an ode from this horror game’s unique hook and share our critique the old-fashioned way: by letter.
Indie games are labors of love, and this year, it looks like there will be a lot to love! These are our most anticipated indie games of 2025.
For The Punished Podcast Episode 13, we recorded a Final Fantasy VII Rebirth spoilercast. Come for the ending analysis; stay for the music.
From best games that make us feel like GAMERS to best games we didn’t play, here are The Punished Backlog’s Prop Awards for 2024!
In The Punished Podcast episode 11, we talk visual art style in games. Learn how art impacts the way we play, and if visuals are plateauing.
For 10 years, the Game Awards has named the Game of the Year. But how do they hold up? Here are all Game Awards GOTY winners ranked.
In honor of the 20th anniversary of the Nintendo DS, check out the very best Nintendo DS games ever created.