Special: PAX East 2026

The 'Fun' and Games Podcast's special recap of PAX East 2026 captures a convention redefined by community, passion, and innovation, marking a significant shift from traditional AAA dominance to a vibrant celebration of indie creativity and inclusivity. Hosts Jen Moonen, Maddie K. Stormageddon, Sarah Moonen, Matt, Sasha Gozenko, Jack Perkins, and Vania Games reflect on an event where connection replaced corporate spectacle, spotlighting standout indie titles like the roguelike Tetris-inspired Crystal Mancers, the nostalgic 2D platformer Super Cucumber, and the stylish Metroidvania Gnaw—each praised for emotional depth, inventive mechanics, and authentic charm. The episode highlights transformative moments, including the revival of Backyard Baseball by Lindsay Barnett, the asymmetric co-op brilliance of We Were Here Tomorrow, and the unique 'eat enemies' mechanic in Naa, while also honoring the Black in Gaming Foundation’s mission through a powerful conversation with Trinidad Hermida. Developers from across the indie spectrum share their journeys, emphasizing the importance of safe spaces, creative freedom, and mutual support in fostering groundbreaking games. The final segment turns toward empowerment, reinforcing that uplifting marginalized voices—by race, identity, or background—fuels collective innovation and growth. The hosts celebrate real-world examples of collaboration, such as Dave Jackson’s podcast network, where cross-promotion expands reach for all creators. They urge listeners to engage with the Black in Gaming movement via its website, Linktree, and social platforms, while introducing a diverse array of developers and creators who embody the spirit of resilience and creativity. The episode closes on a hopeful, forward-looking note, affirming that the future of gaming is bright when passion, inclusivity, and community are prioritized over scale and profit.