Deconstructor of Fun TWIG #365 Golden Twig Awards: The Best, Worst, and Weirdest Moves in Games This Year
Jan 8, 2026
This week, the hosts unveil the Golden Twig Awards, celebrating the best and most questionable moves in gaming. Highlights include EA's Saudi deal being crowned Talk of the Year and an uproar over the most embarrassing predictions. They dive into Xbox’s struggles and label Mind's Eye as the most disappointing game. Tim Sweeney's bold legal tactics shine as the most brilliant move, while the Limping Donkey Award strikes a humorous note with VC blunders. The discussion also touches on Roblox's evolving advertising landscape and its market challenges.
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EA Sale Dominated Industry Conversation
- EA's sale to Saudi interests was the year's dominant story, overshadowing AI narratives in gaming.
- The deal reshaped industry talk and reflected big-cap strategic shifts beyond pure game development.
Hosts Admit Their Embarrassing Predictions
- The hosts shared their most embarrassing predictions, with Philip Black's 'Enzoi is the new Sims' taking the top embarrassing-prediction slot.
- Philip joked about wanting the award and considered visiting Krafton to present it in person.
Xbox Seen As Biggest Industry Loser
- The group judged Xbox as the biggest loser of the year, citing hardware struggles, studio closures, and a failing subscription model.
- Eric Kress predicted more calamity ahead and a dramatic corporate change within a few years.