Collin Armstrong’s debut novel, Polybius, released on April 29 by Simon & Schuster’s Gallery Books imprint, brings to life one of gaming’s most intriguing urban legends. Set in the small town of Tasker Bay, this fast-paced horror narrative centers around a mysterious arcade machine that disrupts the lives of its residents.
The story’s main characters, Andi and Ro, are teenagers caught in the maelstrom of events ignited by the game. Andi works part-time at Home Video World, a store that recently acquired the Polybius cabinet, while Ro is a frequent visitor who develops a crush on Andi. As players become increasingly obsessed with the game’s enticing graphics and gameplay, Andi draws on her programming skills to investigate the machine’s origin and code. Sensing danger, she collaborates with Ro to uncover the truth, while Tasker Bay spirals into chaos.
Armstrong skillfully creates a rich tapestry of perspectives from various characters, including the store’s shady owner, Andi’s mother (the town doctor), and Ro’s father (the sheriff). This multi-faceted narration contributes to the novel’s depth, depicting how the Polybius phenomenon impacts everyone in the town.
Even readers familiar with the Polybius mythos will find Armstrong’s execution compelling. The book has been likened to Stranger Things by bestselling horror author Richard Chizmar, echoing themes of horror and nostalgia. With its engaging and thrilling storyline, Polybius serves as a captivating read, blending psychological horror with sci-fi elements.
For those interested, Amazon is currently offering the hardcover edition at a 25% discount, available for $21.76. It is also accessible as a Kindle ebook and an audiobook through Audible. This novel is already featured on Amazon’s list of the best sci-fi and fantasy novels for May 2025.
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