Animal Well
News, coverage and analysis tracking Animal Well across the outlets.
Latest coverage
After two weeks with Steam Frame, Valve's latest is now my go-to VR headset, but my recommendation comes with some important caveats
Valve's Steam Frame VR headset offers a comfortable and lightweight design with impressive PC-to-headset streaming capabilities, making it a compelling option for PC VR enthusiasts. However, its standalone performance is inconsistent and less polished than competitors like the Meta Quest 3, and its high price point may be a barrier for many.
Games Inbox: Will there be a Trailer 3 for GTA 6?
Readers discuss the likelihood of a third trailer for Grand Theft Auto 6, express disappointment with Nintendo's Switch 2 priorities and Tomb Raider remake features, and debate the underutilization of the PlayStation 5 DualSense controller's touchpad. Other topics include the commercial struggles of PlatinumGames, the perceived decline of the Turok franchise, and the philosophy of digital ownership versus physical discs.
Metroidvania Games Were The Original Open-World Games
This article argues that Metroidvania games were the original open-world experiences, predating modern open-world titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption 2. It highlights how the exploration, gated progression, and sense of discovery in classic Metroid and Castlevania games laid the groundwork for the genre.
Nintendo announces 2026 Blockbuster sale for Switch 2 and Switch, the full list of deals
Nintendo has launched a "2026 Blockbuster" sale on the eShop, featuring discounts of up to 80% on a wide range of third-party titles for both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. The sale includes popular games like Dave the Diver, Persona 3 Reload, and Red Dead Redemption, and will run until September 9th.
What if Stop Killing Games win? Anthem, SpaceCraft and Warframe devs on the "massive undertaking" of reverse engineering an always-online game
The article discusses the challenges and importance of game preservation for live service titles, using Warframe as a primary example. It explores the difficulties of reverse engineering always-online games and the efforts of groups like Stop Killing Games to advocate for offline modes and legal requirements for game longevity. Experts like Scott McGregor and Mark Darrah weigh in on the technical and financial hurdles, while the piece also touches on the potential impact of such regulations on the future development of live service games.
"Long live physical media": Devs and publishers of Baldur's Gate 3, Silksong, and more call Sony's decision to end physical PlayStation games "genuinely heartbreaking"
Sony's decision to cease production of physical PlayStation game discs starting in 2028 has been met with dismay from developers and publishers. Many express sadness and a loss of desire to develop for the platform, citing the importance of physical media for preservation, collector value, and the joy it brings to players. Companies like Larian Studios, Lost in Cult, and Fangamer are particularly vocal about the impact on their work and their commitment to physical releases.
'I do think Blow misunderstood what the game is about': Derelict Star made Jonathan Blow rage quit, but it's the most fascinating indie platformer I've played for years
This article discusses the indie platformer Derelict Star, which creator Jonathan Blow famously criticized for its controls and introductory level. The author argues that Blow misunderstood the game's focus on intricate movement mechanics, which, after an initial adjustment period, offer a deeply rewarding experience akin to N++ and Super Mario World. Derelict Star is praised for its fine-tuned physics and momentum-based gameplay, making it a standout title for movement platformer enthusiasts.
You should never be ashamed about looking up solutions in a video game - Reader’s Feature
This reader's feature discusses the common experience of getting stuck in video games and argues that seeking solutions is not something to be ashamed of, using the game Animal Well as a primary example. The author highlights the game's subtle signposting, atmospheric sound design, and challenging puzzles that often require external help or experimentation to overcome. Despite the difficulty, the author found Animal Well to be an admirable and engaging experience that rewards exploration.
25 Best Puzzle Games To Solve In 2026
This guide highlights 25 of the best puzzle games available, ranging from recent indie hits like Animal Well to enduring classics such as Portal 2. The list features a variety of brain-teasing experiences across multiple platforms, emphasizing critical thinking and engaging gameplay.
The 15 Best Games Like Hollow Knight To Get Lost In
This guide highlights 15 games similar to Hollow Knight, focusing on the metroidvania genre's blend of soulslike combat and deep exploration. It features titles like Nine Sols, Animal Well, Blasphemous 2, Elden Ring, and the highly anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong, detailing their unique mechanics and platforms.
50+ PS5, PS4 Games to Buy in PS Store's Mega March Sale (North America/Europe)
Sony's PlayStation Store is hosting its Mega March sale until March 25th, featuring discounts on over 50 PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 games. The sale includes titles like Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition, Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time, and Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, with some games reaching their lowest prices ever.
Last Chance to Buy These 50+ PS5, PS4 Games in PS Store's Mega March Sale
Sony's PlayStation Store is holding a Mega March sale with over 50 discounted digital titles for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. The sale ends on March 25th, featuring games like Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition, Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time, and Death Stranding 2: On the Beach at reduced prices.
50+ PS5, PS4 Games to Buy in PS Store's Mega March Sale
Sony's PlayStation Store is currently hosting its Mega March sale, featuring discounts on over 50 PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 games until March 25th. The sale includes titles like Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition, Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time, and Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, with some games reaching their lowest prices ever.
The Best Nintendo Switch Games In 2026
This guide highlights the best games available on the Nintendo Switch and its successor, the Switch 2, covering a variety of genres and including both first-party and third-party titles. The list aims to showcase the diverse and high-quality catalog of games on Nintendo's hybrid systems, with a focus on titles that offer unique experiences or represent the pinnacle of their respective genres.
Best Metroidvania Games To Play In 2026
This guide highlights some of the best Metroidvania games available to play, offering a sampling of great titles rather than a definitive all-time list. The selections are presented in alphabetical order and cover a range of acclaimed indie and AAA titles with diverse mechanics and settings.
