The Besties

Dive into Fortnite's whimsical Simpsons update, where players can explore a detailed Springfield and embody beloved characters like Homer and Lisa. The hosts share insights on the growing dominance of Fortnite and ponder if it's overshadowing other games. They discuss the intricacies of crossover content, suggesting the collaboration feels more celebratory than exploitative. With frequent updates and engaging mechanics, Fortnite stands as a pop culture juggernaut, provoking thought about its impact on gaming preferences.

This week delves into a mystery game that feels like a novel, and a historic interactive film that emphasizes political intrigue. The hosts explore the addictiveness of simulators, highlighting PowerWash Simulator 2's satisfying mechanics. They also discuss inventive jigsaw puzzle mechanics in Strange Jigsaws, and the narrative depth of Road to Empress. From Mortal Kombat's historical context to a mix of gaming nostalgia and book recommendations, the conversation is a delightful grab bag of gaming insights.

The discussion kicks off with a lively intro about Halloween costumes. Pokémon Legends Z-A impresses with enhanced performance and an action-oriented gameplay shift, appealing to nostalgic fans and newcomers alike. Simplified mechanics like friendship-building through cafe tea are highlighted. The hosts then dive into Keeper, where players embody a charming, ambulatory lighthouse in an imaginative world, blending emotion with gameplay. They debate its artful design and evolving mechanics while praising its unique atmosphere. Tune in for more gaming insights!

The studio that created Fallout: New Vegas has had a busy year, delivering Avowed, the early access of Grounded 2, and now Outer Worlds 2. This latest release comes the closest to the team’s legacy in the Fallout universe. But can it achieve those high highs without the beloved trappings of post-apocalyptic America? And would you believe it has strong feelings about capitalism?  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!

The hosts dive into Ball X Pit, a game that fuses breakout mechanics with Vampire Survivors inspiration. They debate the significance of catching balls and explore the game's unique evolution system. The discussion shifts to the ROG Xbox Ally X handheld, analyzing its performance and software challenges, including the awkwardness of running Windows. Finally, they highlight recent gaming recommendations and useful retro tools, all while teasing next week's topic. It's a blend of gaming insights and lively banter!

What if you combined the structure of Hades with the minute-to-minute gameplay of Castle Crashers? Absolum! The new game from the creators of Streets of Rage 4 is one of the best surprises in a year full of them. Plus, The Besties take a trip to 1960s Japan with Silent Hill f. It might not look like other entries in the series, but we explain why this is definitely a Silent Hill game. 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!

The Besties were mixed on 2020’s Ghost of Tsushima, but have found a lot to love in its new sequel, Ghost of Yotei. What makes this open-world Sony-exclusive stand out? Plus, Griffin updates the group on the brilliant remake of Final Fantasy Tactics. And we make some time to pick through the mailbag! 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!

Baby Steps is the latest game from the creators of QWOP, Getting Over It, and Ape Out. This time, these connoisseurs of challenge have created a game about an awkward man who is transported from his parents’ basement to a fantastical mountain. His goal: reach the top. The challenge: learning to walk.Plus, Justin catches us up on the state of emulator handhelds.Like the show? Leave a review! 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!

Borderlands 4 reimagines the series with more weapons and less snark. Will that be enough to appease longtime fans and attract skeptical newcomers? The Besties chat about the many positive tweaks and the one structural decision that impacts the entire experience. Plus, Justin talks about mobile Destiny, and Plante shares his opinions on a new co-op indie game. 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!

After years of anticipation, Hollow Knight: Silksong has arrived. And it’s difficult! The Besties talk about what makes the game so appealing, the early spike in difficulty, and the appeal of discovering small upgrades in an inhospitable (but beautiful) world.  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!