Steam Quietly Just Got 2026’s Best Silksong Replacement
Well Dweller, a Metroidvania developed by solo creator Kyle Thompson, launched today to significant critical acclaim. The indie game has garnered a Metacritic score of 91 and an Opencritic rating of 90, making it one of 2026’s best-reviewed games—a notable achievement given its limited pre-launch visibility compared to other releases shipping this week.
The game follows Glimmer, a tiny bird protagonist navigating a dangerous kingdom where birds are hunted at the queen’s command. Players explore through challenging platforming and Metroidvania-style progression, all presented in a charming art style that critics have praised alongside the game’s stellar gameplay mechanics.
Well Dweller launches today across multiple platforms: PlayStation 5, Steam, and Xbox Game Pass (for both Ultimate and PC subscribers). Despite shipping the same day as Dune: Awakening on Game Pass—which received significant pre-launch hype—Well Dweller has emerged as the critical darling, stealing the spotlight from more anticipated releases like Silent Hill: Townfall and Control Resonant arriving Thursday. For Metroidvania fans seeking alternatives while awaiting Hollow Knight: Silksong’s upcoming Sea of Sorrows expansion, Well Dweller appears to be an essential title.