"Alpha Games" is the sixth studio album by English indie rock band Bloc Party, released on April 29, 2022. It is the first album since 2016's Hymns and the first to prominently feature new drummer Louise Bartle and bassist Justin Harris as songwriters, though Harris would leave the band in 2023. Produced by Nick Launay and Adam Greenspan, the album was promoted through several singles, including "Traps," "The Girls Are Fighting," "Sex Magik," and "If We Get Caught," with a deluxe edition released in July 2022 featuring three bonus tracks.
The album received generally favorable reviews, earning a Metacritic score of 65. Critics praised the energy and return to form, with Clash and PopMatters highlighting its hooks and emotional depth. However, some, like Pitchfork and The Telegraph, criticized it for lacking innovation, although Bartle's drumming and vocal presence were widely recognized as standout elements. The band supported the release with a UK and European tour in May 2022.
