Hydroxide is a review-focused newsletter of long-form video game criticism that scores titles out of 100 against stated criteria. The sample issues cover a metroidvania, an HD-2D action adventure and a co-op open-world walking game, with spoiler warnings and gameplay-focused analysis.
Website: https://hydroxide.me/
Short, practical essays on game design theory, each building one principle around concrete examples from games like Slay the Spire, Slipways and Rift Wizard. Readers get design heuristics they can apply to upgrade systems, synergies and multiplayer structure.
Game File covers the business and culture of video games, mixing industry news such as layoffs and studio closures with analysis of publisher pricing practices and wry game coverage. It is written by a veteran games reporter and includes sourced reporting and context.
A video game criticism outlet publishing long-form essays on games and related media, often focusing on overlooked creators, character readings and queer or gendered themes. Issues also include occasional editorial updates ("TIER Reports") on upcoming themed issues and team news.
Design Room publishes long-form oral histories of video games, built from interviews with the developers who made them. Covers famous titles and obscure ones, with original art collaborations and rare development assets.
One short email a week with hand-picked newsletters from the index. Free, no spam, unsubscribe anytime.
