
The Besties
It's Game of the Year meets King of the Hill as four of Earth's best friends – Griffin McElroy, Justin McElroy, Chris Plante, and Russ Frushtick – rank and review their favorite video games. Because shouldn't the world's best friends pick the world's best games?
Latest episodes

Apr 18, 2025 • 51min
Promise Mascot Agency is an Escape From Life’s Headaches
Promise Mascot Agency is like running errands on a cool summer day, the radio blasting killer tunes and a good friend riding shotgun. Justin and Plante talk about what makes this a great example of a “chore game.” Plus, the dastardly duo discuss emulation. Because nobody can stop them!
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!

11 snips
Apr 11, 2025 • 1h 13min
Blue Prince is the First Must-Play Game of 2025
Join the lively discussion about the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 and its potential impact on gaming. The hosts dive into the intricacies of the innovative game 'Blueprints,' emphasizing its strategic planning and puzzle-solving elements. They explore the evolution of gaming experiences, particularly for children, and the importance of accessibility in modern games. With comedic insights into game features and comparisons to notable franchises, this conversation fuels excitement for the future of gaming.

Apr 4, 2025 • 55min
Chilling in the Grab Bag with Kingdom Come Deliverance 3
This week, the hosts dive into the fascinating world of Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, reminding listeners of gaming gems from the past. They bring humor to the etiquette of movie nights and discuss the absurdities of film reactions. Exploring the latest Nintendo Direct, they highlight exciting announcements like Metroid Prime 4 and nostalgic titles. There’s a lively debate on digital ownership struggles within the Switch ecosystem, and they look forward to a new game focusing on crisis management. It's a delightful blend of gaming insights and laughter!

5 snips
Mar 28, 2025 • 1h 5min
Assassin's Creed Shadows Delivers on an 18-Year-Old Promise
The discussion kicks off with humorous reflections on waning interest in the Assassin's Creed franchise. The long-awaited Assassin's Creed Shadows is explored, set in feudal Japan, raising questions about its originality. The evolution of gameplay mechanics and narrative absurdities over nearly two decades are highlighted. Players grapple with overwhelming systems, prompting a call for better tutorials. Insights from the Game Developers Conference reveal a mix of excitement for indie gaming and a nod to memorable soundtracks. A subscription model for the franchise is also debated.

Mar 21, 2025 • 60min
Repo and Inzoi Will Terrify You – For Very Different Reasons
Dive into the quirky horror of Repo, where chaos and laughter collide in cooperative gameplay. Discover the intriguing new life simulation Inzoi, inspired by The Sims, emphasizing character creation and social dynamics. Engage in discussions about the ethical implications of AI in gaming, alongside the latest innovations in home decor customization. Plus, enjoy whimsical tangents about bizarre collections and the potential of gaming mods for enhanced experiences. It's a mix of thrills, humor, and inside looks at the evolving gaming landscape!

Mar 14, 2025 • 1h 6min
Wanderstop Performs an Autopsy on the Cozy Game Genre
Wanderstop is the new game from developer Ivy Road, founded by Davey Wreden, Karla Zimonja, and C418. What looks like a farming game is an exploration of burnout, anxiety, and the "to-do" list nature of video games. It's not for everyone but it might be for you!
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!

Mar 7, 2025 • 57min
Split Fiction is everything fans want (and more of what critics fear)
This week, the Besties play Split Fiction, the latest game from the creators of It Takes Two. It tells the story of an evil corporation that uses AI to steal creative ideas and create generic sci-fi and fantasy drivel. It's published by EA. Video games!
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!

10 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 59min
Monster Hunter Wilds is Surprisingly Great in Single-Player
The conversation dives into the charm of Monster Hunter Wilds, highlighting how it appeals to solo players as well as its multiplayer roots. The hosts share their personal journeys with the series, exploring its engaging combat and narrative depth. Witty exchanges lead to a discussion on the revival of Tokyo Xtreme Racer, blending racing with combat in a nostalgic twist. They also touch on the intricacies of game design and the importance of accessibility, alongside humorous takes on quirky monster characters and gaming culture.

8 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 55min
The Pirate Yakuza Game Has Something for Everyone – Even Newcomers
The discussion kicks off with hilariously unconventional sneezing methods that blend fitness with comedy. The hosts dive into the quirky charm of 'Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii,' showcasing its character evolution and engaging gameplay. They highlight innovative mechanics that make it welcoming for newcomers while reminiscing about nostalgic favorites. Comparisons to franchises like The Legend of Zelda bring insights into gaming innovations. They also explore augmented reality in gaming, balancing fun with privacy concerns, and celebrate the vibrant gaming community.

12 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 1h
Is Avowed Too Good for Our Brains to Comprehend?
The hosts dive into the thrilling world of Avowed, sharing their excitement and humorous takes on RPGs. They explore the game's character creation mechanics and narrative depth, comparing it to Starfield. Amidst playful banter about tech mishaps, they also touch on innovative gaming gift ideas and the exploration of player freedom. The conversation is rounded off with a look at the future of the Elder Scrolls franchise and a whimsical nod to the Kirby manga series. It's a lively blend of gaming insights and lighthearted fun!
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