Mewgenics

Highly addictive tactical roguelite with flexible rules and endlessly motivating progression. Already one of the candidates for game of the year.

Mewgenics is a turn-based tactical RPG with Roguelike structure inspired by Final Fantasy Tactics and D&D. Mewgenics puts the player in control of cats that explore dangerous areas and evolve through genetic breeding at the home base. The Game stands out for its strategic depth, strong art style, memorable soundtrack, and game of the year potential in 2026.

While the early-2000s humor is often grating and dated, there's no denying that everything else about Mewgenics is nothing short of magnificent. This is a wildly inventive and deeply compelling hybrid of genres that will keep you occupied for years.

Mewgenics is one of the densest and most entertaining tactics games ever made, and I'll be discovering new stuff in it for years to come.

Mewgenics is an eclectic, strategy-filled experience. I’ve never played a game that combines cat breeding with tactical, turn-based battles like this. It was worth the wait.

Mewgenics is a tactical RPG that only appears cute on the surface, hiding beneath its layer of meows an unprecedentedly deep, brutally addictive, and creatively unrestrained system that rewards experimentation, tolerates failure, and joyfully breaks its own rules. It offers an almost endless number of combinations, constant surprises, and the sense of playing something that refuses to repeat itself or pander. It can easily consume hundreds of hours without ever feeling exhausted or self-indulgent, while confidently pushing the entire genre forward. If a modern gold standard for tactical roguelite RPGs exists, its name is Mewgenics.

Already very enthusiastic during my first preview of the game, I've fallen completely in love with Mewgenics. Edmund McMillen's new project (developed with Tyler Glaiel) embodies everything I've been hoping for in the roguelite genre, and even more so in the tactical RPG genre: colossal content, a combat system of unparalleled depth, and above all, a sense of discovery that never fades. On top of all that, the game is an exceptional generator of stories that can appeal to both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike. Of course, you have to appreciate the creator's distinctive art style and not be afraid of game overs. But if that excites you more than it intimidates you, then you'll be diving into one of the best games of the year. Already.

Mewgenics is a total success, an addictive and unforgiving roguelite that will keep you glued to your screen for hundreds of hours. And while there are a few rough edges in the meta-progression management, there's nothing deal-breaking that couldn't be fixed with an update or two. This title comes highly recommended and will undoubtedly leave its mark on 2026.

Edmund McMillen and Tyler Glaiel have delivered a simply outstanding roguelike, an adventure that unabashedly aims to seize the absolute pinnacle of the genre. Over 200 hours of core content, more than 100 bosses, upwards of 200 enemy types, more than 1,200 abilities, and 1,000 pieces of equipment: these are the cold numbers behind Mewgenics, but a boiling blood runs through its veins. By embracing the turn-based tactical RPG formula and distilling an explosive blend of cats and genetics, the authors have crafted a video game of extraordinary depth—a journey that leaves you slack-jawed almost entirely on the strength of its mechanics and pure game design, further elevated by irreverent writing and a completely unhinged soundtrack. There isn’t much else to add, because it is practically the Holy Grail for any fan of tactical RPGs and roguelikes: approach with caution, as it demands a considerable time investment and shows very little concern about kicking you squarely in the ass.

Mewgenics is a wildly ambitious tactical roguelite that merges cat breeding, strategic combat, and eccentric indie charm into an endlessly replayable experience. Co-developed by Edmund McMillen and Tyler Glaiel, the game thrives on its generational systems and dark humor, delivering a blend of depth and absurdity that rewards experimentation and persistence. Despite occasional pacing issues and some luck-based setbacks, Mewgenics stands out as a defining indie title with a distinct voice and vision.

Mewgenics does exactly what a roguelite should do: it never gets boring. Every time we think we've seen it all, another class is added. Or a new mechanic, effect, or level. The 13 years of development time were definitely worth it, because so much content in a single game is anything but ordinary. If you're into roguelites, turn-based tactics, or cats, you should definitely check out Mewgenics.

A sprawling, ridiculous, and endlessly surprising roguelike that will drag you body and soul into its chaotic world.

Mewgenics’ unexpected depth as a roguelike and management sim will keep players entertained and strategizing for hours. Alongside its randomized runs, this means that you’ll still find something to be surprised or astounded by even after devoting hours into it. It’s the game that keeps on giving—fun, poop, farts and all.

Mewgenics is a game with character that could share its content with many other games and still have plenty left over. If you give it a chance, it will keep you entertained for hours. I recommend it not only to cat lovers.

With its charming, cartoonish style, Edmund McMillen and Tyler Glaiel's title offers us one of the most profound, complex, and ambitious RPG/Roguelike games of this year that has just begun.

Mewgenics is sure to be a hit with Binding of Isaac fans, roguelite fans, and tactics RPG fans. It has McMillen’s signature ugly-cute Newgrounds flash art, a toe-tapping soundtrack, and an unfathomable number of ways for players to approach its chaotic, layered grid combat — just be prepared to see many, many, many cats expire as nine lives are not included.

A standout title that successfully balances both roguelike elements and SRPG depth. Its rough-edged visuals, offbeat black humor, and somewhat predictable early turn-based exchanges may pose an initial hurdle. Push past that, however, and you’ll find a rich playground of builds and combinations, where genetics, roguelike progression, and class systems intertwine to offer remarkable variety and replay value.

Mewgenics is a turn-based roguelite that blends deep tactical gameplay with unapologetic dark humor. The action order is individual and dynamic, determined by stats and modifiers, while cats have no fixed classes: collars define their role, abilities, and progression, with upgrades chosen from random pools. Each feline can take part in only one run, making breeding and partial skill inheritance central mechanics. A competitive AI, full permadeath, and numerous random events ensure constant variety, balancing strict strategy with genetic unpredictability.

In the end, Mewgenics stands as a confident, content-rich tactical roguelite that rewards curiosity, patience, and perseverance. Its deep combat, endless variety, distinctive visuals, unforgettable soundtrack, and unapologetic humor combine into a game that feels uniquely itself. It won’t be for everyone, but for those willing to meet it on its own terms, Mewgenics offers an experience that can last dozens—if not hundreds—of hours without losing its sense of surprise or challenge. If you waited over a decade for Mewgenics, your patience has paid off.

Mewgenics is a bizarre, complex, and at times unforgiving game. That is precisely why it’s so hard to put down.

Mewgenics is an ode to feline chaos. The game triumphs by mixing tactical precision with the unpredictability of roguelikes and Edmund McMillen's characteristic scatological humour. Although the meta-progression may seem obtuse and slow at first, and the interface lacks management tools, these flaws are quickly forgotten when the music starts playing and the battle unfolds. It is a title that shines for its ability to create emergent stories and trap us in the cycle of "just one more run." Progression is not fast or linear, but it is delightful and unmissable for fans of turn-based strategy who are not afraid to sacrifice a cat or two.

Like a sharp set of kitty claws, Mewgenics perfectly scratches the itch of ‘just one more round’ with an intriguing level of strategic depth, but one that never feels overwhelming. The randomised nature of things means it’s the kind of experience that always stays fresh, and yet at the same time is super easy to pick up and play, before realising several hours have passed. Add to that a killer art style that pays homage to McMillen’s previous entries, but has its own unique flavour thanks to the collection of cats, and a kick-ass soundtrack that makes those brutal boss battles worth playing again and again for the battle theme alone, and it is far from an outrageous bet to expect Mewgenics to sweep up a raft of awards and plaudits over the coming year and beyond.

One of the most unusual tactical role-playing games is also one of the best.

Whether you’re a hardened veteran of the genre or interested in trying it out for the first time, Mewgenics is a roguelike well worthy of your time. What starts out as a decent SRPG difficulty curve expands in lockstep with the complexity of the game expanding as more and more content becomes available and new challenges present themselves. It’s all about slowly learning the ins and outs of its systems as you play. Whether you’re sitting down for a single run or locking in for a longer session, optimizing your play style while uncovering new synergistic combos through passives is the special sauce that keeps you playing. And, y’know, it lets you be a hoarder and take care of a bunch of cats. What more could you want?

Mewgenics is a game that embraces chaos, randomness, and failure as central elements of its experience. It rewards players not for perfect optimization, but for skillfully managing uncertainty. Its grotesque aesthetic and challenging mechanics reflect the vision of its creator: the notion that absolute control is an illusion. Therefore, the game does not aim to be universally appealing or friendly; instead, it embodies a design philosophy that acknowledges losing as progress.

In truth, I wasn’t all that sure Mewgenics could win my heart the way its predecessor, The Binding of Isaac, did, but I’m glad to have been proved sorely wrong by this inventive and complex turn-based roguelike. Beneath the veil of crassness and feline fornication lives a well-paced and content-packed adventure that demands strategic thinking. Yes, its humor feels dated in places, but it stands as a testament to the enduring charm of whimsical, tongue-in-cheek indie games.

Mewgenics is satisfying, and I think the development team isn’t exaggerating when they say the campaign can last over 200 hours. Review copy provided by company for testing purposes.

There’s never a dull moment with Mewgenics. This wild title surprises and delights in equal parts, never resting on its laurels or hiding amongst the crowd. It stands out from the pack for all of the right reasons, with sharp wit, attention-grabbing visual designs, and music that absolutely slaps. More than the sum of its parts, Mewgenics intelligently introduces new ideas into a cohesive package that will keep you coming back time and time again.

A dense, detailed, and hugely varied strategy roguelike, Mewgenics borrows much from its iconic predecessor with an imaginative and rewarding gameplay loop. Occasionally harsh RNG can be a buzzkill, but doesn't prevent this from being a worthy successor to The Binding of Isaac.

Mewgenics still manages to offer a captivating and fascinating experience. Whether you're trying to breed the best hybrid classes or hoping to unlock the next zone and legendary reward, or you're just humming catchy songs that are stuck on a loop in your head, this is a game that you can play nonstop for hours on end through trials and triumphs. What McMillen, Glaiel, and co. pulled off is simply paw-some. It's catnip for roguelites in all its glory, as you keep going through runs and coming back for more.

Mewgenics is a standout RTS-Roguelike that Frankenstein's together the best of both genres in a freakishly delightful new breed of fun.

More than once, I've looked up from playing Mewgenics and realized that it's 1:30AM. It's that kind of tactical turn-based roguelike, where every new run with a new set of mutant feline adventurers is full of potential for something you didn't know could happen, even after dozens of hours of runs. Maybe you'll earn a new ability for a character class you've used many times, or see some new devious enemies that never appeared in a zone before, or you'll get a new piece of gear that completely upends the rules and chaos will ensue. You'll definitely see something hilariously gross. There will almost certainly be times you'll be sent back to your house with your tail between your legs and have to breed a new batch of cats to avenge their mulched predecessors, but you'll do it to the tune of some outstanding original songs.

Mewgenics is a fantastic roguelike with turn-based combat and cat-tactic power that quickly draws you in. Already a contender for Game of the Year 2026.

Mewgenics is a surprisingly deep and unforgiving game with a strong tactical combat system, a massive amount of content, and a highly addictive gameplay loop. Its heavy reliance on RNG and repetition can be frustrating at times, but it rarely lets go of you. For players who enjoy complex systems, tough decisions, and pitch-black humor, this one is absolutely worth diving into.

Mewgenics is surprisingly difficult to unpack. Not because it reinvents the rogue-like genre, but because it finds new twists on the formula repeatedly within its own playtime. There's new discoveries, new combinations and new ways to horrifyingly lose your cats around every corner. It strikes an unusual balance of frustration and motivation, where you always feel like fighting an unfair fight, but have just enough agency to blame yourself instead of the game.

Mewgenics is an unflinchingly and unapologetically off-putting game that isn't afraid to roll around and play in the muck. Look past its comically unappealing veneer, however, and you'll find that there's plenty for tactical RPG fans to love here. From the endless customization to the genius design of the bosses and levels, Mewgenics is a must-play for fans of both tactical RPGs and roguelikes.

As grotesque as it is entertaining, Mewgenics successfully layers a dose of madness and variety onto an otherwise conventional tactical roguelike, making it unique and remarkably long‑lasting.

You know how sometimes you see stray cats with their noses and mouths all crusted over with snot? If you’re the kind of person who can’t handle looking at cats like that, STAY AWAY from this game. But if you’re the type who goes “ugh, fine, I’ll grab a pack of tissues and deal with it” and you also like turn-based strategy… then hey, come help me catch those stray cats once in a while. Doing it alone is rough.

Tons of content, clever subsystems, brilliant turn-based strategy and emergent gameplay make this a game that shines -while showing little regard for your time, or your feelings (you know, like a real cat).

Initially overwhelming but ultimately addictive, Mewgenics’ unlockable features, fun bosses and item synergies eventually sucked me into the layered, turn-based combat system, its inclusivity and great UI an added bonus but its music and problematic collaborations didn’t thrill me.

While not a true successor, Mewgenics carries The Binding of Isaac’s roguelike spirit through its sharp cat-based tactics, dense content, and clear devotion to McMillen’s ideal vision. It’s pricey, brutally slow, and unapologetically harsh, but its addictive music, bizarre systems, and deep strategy make it hard to put down. Not quite purrfect, but very close.

Mewgenics is one of the most ambitious indie games of recent years, with its boundary-pushing tactical depth, massive content volume, and absurd cat-breeding simulation. While the learning curve is steep and the luck factor is unforgiving, once you grasp the mechanics, you won't be able to put it down—it's a full-fledged 200-hour “meowsterpiece.”

Embellished with delightfully grotesque aesthetics and accompanied by some wonderful tunes... [Issue #421, p.112]

Because the breeding happens in between the game's fantastic runs, it's hard for me to come to a firm consensus on how I feel about Mewgenics. Its combat mechanics truly stand out, and in isolation, might make it one of my favorite games of the year. But even though those hours and hours of combat comprise almost all of my playtime, the odd, upsetting creative decisions stick with me. Despite Mewgenics' best attempts to kill my appetite, dozens and dozens of hours in, I'm still hungry for another run.

The style, writing, and visuals are pure McMillen and if you've been hankering for more of that gritty and sometimes puerile 2010s humour from The Binding of Isaac, Mewgenics delivers in spades.

One of the most complex and rewarding strategy games of recent years, hidden behind a mask of weird humour, ugly visuals, and a lot of random number generation.

Mewgenics is the definitive coming of age title for McMillen and Glaiel. It is a monstrous piece of work - at times repulsive due to its punishing difficulty or its imagery - but it possesses a level of game design intelligence that commands respect. By fusing the controlled randomness of a roguelite, the depth of a tactical RPG, and the obsessive management of a life sim, the duo has birthed an absolute must-play, even if it suffers from some infuriating flaws (seriously, that pathfinding). Why? Because once again, McMillen and Glaiel prove one essential point: regardless of the subject matter, the tone, or the presence of humor, when you pour your guts into a game and refuse to treat players like idiots, greatness happens. It’s filthy, it’s long, it’s hard, and it’s essential for anyone still looking for a game that actually bites back. It is already one of the standout titles of 2026...But be warned: all ye who enter here, go buy some hemorrhoid cream.

If you like turn-based games, cats, and Edmund McMillen's sordid universe, don't hesitate to dive into Mewgenics. Even more so if you like to suffer. The crazy roguelite from the author of The Binding of Isaac still needs a few tweaks in terms of progression, but already offers a bottomless pit of content.

Mewgenics offers more depth and ingenuity than any strategy game I've played in years. It is also terminally unfunny, with an aesthetic, theme, and cast of characters that consistently miss the mark. If you can square yourself with the humor, there is a genuinely great game waiting here.

Mewgenics is built to fill every moment you’re willing to give it.