Nicole Clark - Mothership

How vaginal imagery in Metroid Prime 4 redefines Samus — and why it matters for shooters

Yonic architecture is a constant, from the moment the player is given control of Samus until the very end.

Madeline Blondeau Apr 27, 2026

Advice

It's time for a tolerance break

How do I fight the compulsion of falling into the comfort of the same game again and again, and play new games, see new worlds instead?

Zoë Hannah Apr 24, 2026

Opinion

The 3D-printed girl

Pragmata has forgotten to give Diana a soul

Maddy Myers Apr 23, 2026

Nicole Clark is an LA-based writer and editor who covers TV, games, health, and tech. She used to run Polygon’s culture section and you can find her work in the NY Times, Aftermath, and elsewhere. She still owns a Gamecube just for Kirby Air Ride.

2 articles

Two hands with Push Metagrips on their thumbs are photoshopped to look like they're holding a PS4 controller

Recs

A thumb brace has let me play games pain-free for the first time in years

Finally, I have achieved my fitness goals. My thumbs grow buffer by the day.

Nicole Clark Mar 19, 2026

A screenshot of Hornet from Hollow Knight: Silksong, looking into a bright light and shading her eyes with one of her arms

Opinion

Hornet’s compassion is the heart of Silksong

Hollow Knight’s Ghost was never given the chance

Nicole Clark Jan 26, 2026