Triple Play: Animal Well (with Russ Frushtick)

May 16, 2024

Join video game journalist Russ Frushtick, known for his insightful reviews at Polygon and co-hosting The Besties, as he dives into the delightful indie game, Animal Well. The trio discusses its clever environmental puzzles and minimalist art style, comparing it to classics like Metroid and Outer Wilds. They highlight the whimsical charm of exploring hidden areas and the joy of collaborative puzzle-solving. The conversation also touches on the fascinating themes of Naomi Klein's book, Doppelganger, enriching the gaming discourse with reflections on narrative structures.

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Intro

00:00 • 3min

Exploring 'Animal Well': A Metroidvania Journey

02:47 • 14min

Whimsy in Game Design

17:15 • 13min

The Thrill of the Hunt in Animal Well

29:58 • 14min

Accessible Thrills in 2D Platforming Adventures

43:59 • 3min

Exploring 'Doppelganger': Misidentification and Narrative Structure

47:22 • 5min

Exploring Game Mechanics: From Mini Shoot Adventures to Hades 2

52:43 • 4min