Jo Hawley

“Craftlings is a colorful puzzle/strategy game from ARIANO Games that blends the spirit of Lemmings with a lighter, settlement-management vibe. It’s charming on the surface, but there’s a steep learning curve underneath the cute presentation.”

“Winter Burrow is a soft, inviting take on the survival genre, one that trades tension and danger for warmth and charm. Set in a snow-covered forest, the game focuses on preparation, exploration, and helping others rather than overcoming overwhelming odds. It’s a calm, cozy experience designed to be approachable and relaxing, making it an easy recommendation for players who enjoy slower-paced games with a strong sense of atmosphere.”

“Rather than chasing difficulty or mechanical complexity, it invites players into a gentle, emotionally resonant journey—one defined by love, memory, and the quiet heroism of loyalty. It’s an experience that lingers not because of what it demands from the player, but because of what it asks them to feel.”

“Tabletop Game Shop Simulator is a charming, feel-good management sim that scratches the itch for organization, crafting, and steady progression.”

“A flawed but fascinating experiment, Sanatorium is a place worth visiting—just don’t expect to check out without a few scars.”

“Riddlewood Manor, from the brother team at Peanut Button — producer Asaf and game designer Eyal — is a delightful throwback to the golden age of point-and-click adventure games, wrapped in a Halloween bow. It’s equal parts eerie and endearing, making it a perfect choice for a chilly October night.”

“There is no question in my mind: this game earns a full 5 out of 5 stars. It’s thoughtful, beautifully crafted, and lingers with you long after you set down the controller. If indie games are where the heart of storytelling lives, As Long As You’re Here is proof that the genre is alive, thriving, and capable of something profound.”

“Ale Abbey is a charming and unique tycoon game that balances brewing depth with lighthearted world-building. Its pacing stumbles at times, with lulls that can drag, but the fun pixel art, intuitive UI, and rewarding brewing system make it worth your time. It may not be the "Dark Souls of Tycoon Games," but it doesn’t need to be — it’s a cozy, creative management sim with just enough bite to keep you coming back for one more brew.”

“Roadwarden is an illustrated text-based RPG that blends narrative choice, exploration, and role-playing mechanics. You play as a lone roadwarden traveling dangerous frontiers, tasked with connecting settlements, forging relationships, and uncovering mysteries in a harsh, lived-in fantasy world. The game’s unique interface divides the screen into three sections: on the left, illustrations paint the story as it unfolds; in the middle, text and choices guide your narrative path; and on the right, stats like Time and Vitality constantly remind you of the toll your journey takes and the urgency of your decisions.”

“Train Valley World may not be a masterpiece, but it’s a solid and enjoyable game with moments of brilliance. It’s a title that asks a lot of its players but also gives back in rewarding ways, especially for those who love intricate puzzles and logistical problem-solving. If you’ve got the patience to stick with it, you might just find yourself hooked—one more train, one more track, one more level.”