The crew dives into the excitement surrounding Astro Bot, hailing it as a serious contender for Game of the Year and even the best platformer ever. They share humorous insights on video game nostalgia and the absurdities of a post-apocalyptic trading system. The discussion touches on Sony's recent triumphs while critiquing their missteps, like the PS5 Pro announcement. With lively comparisons to classic platformers, they explore innovative gameplay mechanics and the impact of marketing strategies on player loyalty.
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Quick takeaways
The hosts unanimously agree that 'Astrobot' stands out as a strong contender for Game of the Year, with one member claiming it rivals even the best Mario games.
The podcast highlights 'Astrobot's' innovative gameplay mechanics, particularly its ability to change size, allowing for unique environmental interactions that enhance immersion.
Discussion on the absence of microtransactions in 'Astrobot' underscores its focus on pure enjoyment, prioritizing engaging gameplay over modern monetization strategies.
Deep dives
Exploring the Wasteland Role Play
A humorous discussion unfolds around the concept of surviving in a wasteland, where one participant imagines themselves as a quirky vendor selling random trinkets, dubbed 'baubles.' This character further elaborates on their role, humorously describing their secretive nature when offering items like half a jaw or a flat tire in exchange for essentials like gasoline or candy. The conversation highlights how such a character would navigate the harsh realities of a post-apocalyptic environment while providing comic relief. This thought experiment emphasizes the creativity often found in fictional settings, asking listeners to reflect on their roles in such worlds.
Astro Bot: Gaming Excellence
A deep dive into the game 'Astro Bot' reveals it as a significant advancement in the platforming genre, designed as a follow-up to prior games in the series. The hosts celebrate its engaging gameplay and discuss how it can hold its own alongside iconic franchises like Super Mario. The excitement for the game is palpable as one participant boldly claims it to be the best platforming video game they have ever played, suggesting that the experience resonates strongly with players. This enthusiasm reflects the innovative designs and levels that keep players invested in the gameplay mechanics.
Advancements in Gameplay Mechanics
The conversation stresses the game’s clever use of mechanics that showcase the power of next-generation consoles. One example includes the ability to change size within levels, allowing for unique interactions with the environment that break conventional gaming norms. This is illustrated with specific moments where players can shrink and explore previously inaccessible areas of the game world. Such innovations are highlighted as key differentiators that contribute to the game's immersive experience and overall enjoyment.
Fun for Fun's Sake
Discussion around the absence of microtransactions in 'Astro Bot' enhances appreciation for its straightforwardly fun gameplay. The hosts note how the game prioritizes enjoyment over monetization strategies commonly seen in modern gaming. This commitment to pure fun is exemplified by the way levels are structured, ensuring every encounter is engaging and delightful. This dedication to creating an enjoyable experience reflects a return to gaming's roots, focusing on play without unnecessary complications.
PlayStation Brand References
The interaction between 'Astro Bot' and various PlayStation franchises is examined, pinpointing how it cleverly incorporates nods to the history of Sony games. Characters resembling popular PlayStation icons are scattered throughout the game, creating a sense of nostalgia for long-time players while maintaining gameplay integrity. Though these references serve as marketing elements, they also enrich the gaming experience by binding the player to a shared gaming history. This element of design evokes a unique charm, making the game a celebrated homage to the PlayStation legacy.
Everybody on the crew agrees that Astrobot is a top contender for Game of the Year. But one member believes that the Sony exclusive is the best platformer of all time. Yes, even better than every Mario game. In this episode, The Besties discuss Sony’s humongous win of the week and its inexplicable own goal — the PS5 Pro.
Get the full list of games (and other stuff) discussed at www.besties.fan. Want more episodes? Join us at patreon.com/thebesties for three bonus episodes each month!
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