Mina the Hollower Takes the Crown as 2026's Top-Rated Game So Far

May 27, 2026 - 20:32

The year is barely a few months old, but the race for the best-reviewed game of 2026 already has a clear winner. Mina the Hollower has arrived, and it has claimed the highest Metacritic score of the year by a comfortable margin. The retro-styled action-adventure title from Yacht Club Games, the studio behind Shovel Knight, has been met with near-universal acclaim from critics.

Early reviews praise the game's tight controls, haunting pixel-art visuals, and a soundtrack that channels classic Game Boy and NES era chiptunes. Players take on the role of Mina, a young inventor armed with a transforming cane that serves as both a weapon and a traversal tool. The gameplay loop blends exploration, combat, and light puzzle-solving across a gothic, interconnected world.

What sets Mina the Hollower apart, according to reviewers, is its precision. Every enemy encounter feels deliberate, and the risk-reward system for healing and special attacks keeps tension high without feeling unfair. The game also respects the player's time, offering a focused 10-to-12 hour campaign with no filler.

While the year is still young, this early lead sets a high bar. No other 2026 release has come close to matching its aggregate score. Whether it holds the top spot through December remains to be seen, but for now, Mina the Hollower is the game to beat.