Review scores for the relatively small game Mixtape are skyrocketing.
The year 2026 is already almost halfway over, so it’s worth taking a look at which games have made a splash so far. Huge titles likeCrimson Desertdon’t, of course, make up the entire gaming landscape. Smaller-scale releases likePragmataorMouse: P.I. For Hirehave also won over many hearts.
In the battle for the coveted “Game of the Year” title, games from all price ranges are stepping into the ring. Whether AAA or indie: in the end, it’s quality and fun that count.
On May 7, Mixtape—a musical story adventure—was released, and its chances of winning this title aren’t too bad, at least if you look at the reviews.
“A musical delight from start to finish”
The reviews from the big names couldn’t be much better. Gaming magazines and websites, such asInsider GamingandDualShockers,award full marks. Many others rate it between 80 and 90. IGN writes about Mixtape, for example:
Mixtape isa musical delight from start to finishand sets new standards for coming-of-age stories in video games—all with a masterful sense of style.
While the game is quite short and limited in its gameplay mechanics, the press particularly praises thescript, voice acting, and soundtrack. The mix of ‘90s nostalgia and fresh storytelling would remain in many reviewers’ memories for a long time.
The mild criticism relates, for example, to the lack of narrative depth. Compared to Life is Strange, Mixtape lacks a genuine conflict, asThe Guardian notes.
Overall, Mixtape scores an 85 onMetacritic a score of 85, and onon Steamare impressive. Here, Mixtape has a rating of 92 percent.
But onsocial mediathere is significantly more backlash. Here, in addition to the “lack” of gameplay, the main criticism is the game’s marketing as an indie title. After all, withpublisher Annapurna Interactivebehind Mixtape, billionaire heiress Megan Ellison is involved. However, this discussion did not arise to the same extent with other Annapurna games, such asOuter WildsandStray.
To outsiders who don’t pay much attention to the sheer fucking absurdity that is 2026 games journalism™, it might seem like people are overreacting to the Mixtape situation. Listen, I COMPLETELY understand if you feel that way.
But no, listen carefully. We’ve been saying for… pic.twitter.com/5aexWWERqN
— SirD (@Sir_Dammed) May 10, 2026
Real Chances at GOTY?
While Mixtape is being praised by the press and dividing social media, the player numbers look surprisingly modest. At the time of this article, the peak number of concurrent players stands at just under 2,200 (viaSteamDB).
For comparison: Last year’s GOTY Award winner,Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, reached over120,000 players. So there’s still a lot of room for growth.
In addition, Mixtape would have to compete for the coveted award against a gaming giant likeGTA 6—which is set to be released in November. Given its small community, the low-key story-driven title is likely to face an even tougher challenge, as the award takes into account not only jury votes (90% weighting) but also public votes (10% weighting).
What Mixtape is about
The story in Mixtape revolves around a group of teenage friends who are spending one last evening together. While listening to a mixtape they put together themselves, the three of them reminisce about all the ups and downs that young life has to offer.
In terms of gameplay, you can expect a mix of walking simulator and mini-game medley. Sometimes you’ll ride a skateboard, other times you’ll walk around and chat with your friends. The focus is clearly on the story, character development, and enjoying the music.