Mina the Hollower impresses with its retro-inspired gameplay

After years of anticipation, Mina the Hollower has finally arrived and Yacht Club Games may have delivered one of the standout releases of 2026. The gothic action-adventure title has earned widespread acclaim from critics, many of whom are praising its rewarding gameplay, atmospheric world, and clever evolution of classic retro design.

2D platforming at its best

Developed by Yacht Club Games, the studio behind the indie hit Shovel Knight Tresure Trove, the game combines old-school visuals in 8-bit style with fast-paced combat and exploration-focused gameplay. While its pixel-art presentation draws inspiration from handheld games of the late 1990s, the experience feels far more ambitious than a simple throwback.

In Mina the Hollower, take control of Mina, a skilled "Hollower" who can burrow underground to avoid enemies, solve puzzles, and uncover hidden paths throughout the cursed Tenebrous Isle.This mechanic adds a new layer of complexity to the usual gameplay seen in 2D platformers, and it's one of the game's most creative features, adding both strategy and mobility to exploration and combat encounters.

Mina the Hollower is not an easy game. It's combat rhythm reminisces modern Soulslike games, rewarding patience, timing, and aggressive playstyles. Boss encounters in particular are intense and memorable, pushing players to learn enemy patterns while making full use of Mina's abilities and weapon upgrades.

Despite its challenging gameplay, Mina the Hollower remains approachable thanks to optional customization settings that allow players to adjust the overall difficulty. This flexibility helps the game appeal to both hardcore action fans and players simply looking to enjoy its story and atmosphere.

The game’s presentation has also received significant attention. Its pixel art, haunting environments, and soundtrack, which blends retro-inspired melodies with darker gothic tones, contribute to creating a special atmosphere as you explore a world that is mysterious and densely packed with secrets, encouraging exploration in nearly every area.

For Yacht Club Games, the success of Mina the Hollower represents a proof that the studio can move beyond the legacy of Shovel Knight while still maintaining the charm that made the developer famous in the first place.

Backed up by strong reviews, the game is gaining momentum and it has the potential to become one of 2026's defining indie successes. It may not be the new Hollow Knight Silksong, but it's still an awesome option for those looking for some platformin action with a unique flavor and perhaps a Game of the Year contender. Of course, you can use our comparator if you want to get Mina the Hollower at the cheapest price for your platform of choice.