Category: Review

Bundy’s 2025 in Review
It’s really hard to believe that 2025 is coming to an end already. I wanted to look back and see where I was, where I am now, and maybe look forward to the future!

Bundy’s Life

This year has been pretty wild in my personal life. Lots of positive, some negative, and a lot in-between. Some highlights:
- I directed my first High School Drama Club play (March 2025)
- I had a fantastic week of camp as a counselor (June 2025)
- Did audio/lighting/video tech for my local high school (about 13ish shows)
- Went on 3 work trips out of state for my full-time job
- Helped produce video for 2-3 major events for my full-time job
And the major lowlight? I was let go in November from my full-time job. It was a bit of a shock after being there for six years, but as of this writing I am still looking for a new full-time job. (If you’re hiring, maybe check out my About Me or my Portfolio?)

Not only did I do these things above, but I also had an amazing year as a content creator (which I assume most of you reading are here for) and I’m excited to show all of the different things that we’ve done as a community!

Twitch Highlights

Andy_Bundy’s Streamer Twitch Recap for 2025

No, I’m not just putting my Twitch Recap and calling it a day, but I like how it’s a great picture of all of the things I did in 2025! I did (as of this recap) 133 streams which I played around 65 different games (according to SullyGnome). As a variety streamer, I feel like that is a solid amount of games that I played, even when we would play the same game for weeks to finish them. Go figure, the top games that I played this year according to the recap were Donkey Kong 64, Banjo-Kazooie, Banjo-Tooie, Super Mario Party Jamboree, and Donkey Kong Bananza. Three out of the five were Rare games, one was a Rare spiritual successor (Bananza) and who doesn’t like a game of Mario Party?

Here were the games I played this year (excluding Teamwork Tuesdays):
- Among Us
- Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore
- Banjo-Kazooie
- Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts
- Banjo-Tooie
- Castlevania (NES)
- Castlevania (N64)
- Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest (Bloody Tears%)
- Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
- Croc: Legend of the Gobbos
- Diddy Kong Racing
- Donkey Kong 64
- Donkey Kong Bananza
- Dragon Ball Z: The Legacy of Goku II
- Final Fantasy VI
- Fortnite
- Gex: Enter the Gecko
- Hey You, Pikachu!
- Hop ‘n’ Marty (Demo)
- Kero Quest 64 (Demo)
- Klonoa: Empire of Dreams
- Marbles on Stream
- Mario Kart World
- Mario Paint
- Mario Party 2
- Mario Party 3
- Metroid Prime Remastered
- Microsoft Solitaire Collection
- Miitopia
- Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection
- Mouthwashing
- R.E.P.O.
- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
- Sonic Superstars
- Spyro the Dragon
- Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage
- Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster
- Star Wars Episode I – Racer
- Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire
- Super Mario 64
- Super Mario Bros. 2
- Super Mario Party Jamboree
- Superman 64
- SuperQuest
- TRON 2.0
- UNO
There were a LOT of games, and while I didn’t complete every one, we’ve had a ton of fun playing the games that we have! On top of that, I’ve had some amazing collaborations this year as well! We did our Banjo-Tooie Archipelago with VincentsSin, TheJewker, JoshJepson, and Aelita1234; a few podcasts and Mario Party games with ShellshockPrime; and we had a few Mario Party Shenanigans with Lady_Chuckleton, KirikTheOrc and Watermelon_Orc! However, there needs to be a special shout out to Bookslap, who was my top collaborator thanks to our weekly Teamwork Tuesdays!

Teamwork Tuesdays

This year I worked with Bookslap to make a weekly stream in which we would play cooperative games or other multiplayer games together and called it Teamwork Tuesday. We played these games:
- Split Fiction
- Super Mario Party Jamboree
- Mario Party 3
- Streets of Rage 2
- Mario Kart World
- PEAK
- Hexen: Beyond Heretic
- Mario Paint
- Minecraft
- PowerWash Simulator
- Castle Crashers
- Backrooms: Escape Together
- Pokémon Scarlet/Violet
- Overcooked! 2
- House Flipper 2
I very much enjoyed having Bookslap on stream and it allowed me to play some games that I may not have played before (see: Split Fiction, Hexen). We even got to the point where we have Teamwork Tuesdays shirts available in my Merch Store!

Discord Highlights

If you’re not a part of our Discord, you’re missing out on a big part of my community! That’s where the community part of it comes in! I’m so thankful for the growth that has happened in the Discord this year. According to statbot.net, as of the time of this writing, we’ve sent 55,617 messages in the Discord between 110 unique members in our 38 unique channels. We’ve also collectively spend 9,512.97 hours in voice chats among 52 unique members. Thank you to everyone who has hung out and listened and chatted and reacted. The server is much better because you’re in it!

Movie Nights

One of the big things we did this year was scheduling regular movie nights in which we would either pick a movie or vote from three different films in a giant list that the community created! We watched so many films this year, and I’m so thankful for the people who showed up to watch with me! The films we watched are below:

Podcast

Yes! The Life in the Bear Cave podcast returned! The podcast that I have made episodes off and on for years came back at the tail end of the year! Instead of doing it myself, I asked Bookslap to assist me as a co-host so I have someone to bounce ideas and talk to during the podcast! We’ve done an episode in October and November (perhaps one might show up in December?) and I’m happy with how the podcasts have turned out!

Conclusion

With all of the ups and downs this year, I remain grateful. I look forward to what 2026 has in store! The sky’s the limit, and I can’t wait to see what shenanigans are in store for me! I’m not 100% sure what my goals are for this upcoming year, but it’s something that I’m working on and I might share that in a later post if not discussed in stream/Discord/etc.

Thank you for taking the time for reading this post, and if you contributed in any way this year, whether it’s lurking in a stream or liking a post or donating/subscribing/etc., thank you. I have definitely felt the love from you online and I hope to foster that more in the upcoming year!
December 20, 2025
Nintendo Direct Recap – September 12, 2025
This oddly-timed Direct had a lot of folks curious (myself included) so I thought it’d be nice to recap my thoughts in a blog post for this one (especially since I was in a meeting when it happened originally).

Mario’s 40th Anniversary

On September 13th, it’ll be the 40th anniversary of the release of Super Mario Bros., so Nintendo is doing some special releases for the event!

Nintendo Museum

There are going to be some really cool art pieces and illustration from development of different games. The ticket is themed and there will be a light display in December that will be Mario Themed. They’re adding Super Nintendo World in Kyoto and also sponsoring the Kyoto Marathon. As I probably won’t be heading to Japan, I probably won’t have a chance to experience these but it’s cool nonetheless

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

Releasing April 2026

There was a teaser released during the Direct of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. The film will apparently be the main event for Mario’s 40th anniversary. I don’t know about you, but Chris Meledandri looked uncomfortable in his talk, but the news was good! Seems like most of the main cast is returning, but I’m excited to see who will play Rosalina, since they didn’t announce that. They say it’s for fans of EVERY Mario era, so I’m hoping to see some Hotel Mario representation in the film!

Super Mario Galaxy 1+2

Releasing October 2, 2025

There may have been some screaming when I saw this. I have Super Mario 3D All-Stars, but I haven’t played Mario Galaxy 2 in years. I was hoping it would be free DLC for 3D All-Stars, but I remember they don’t they sell it anymore? ANYWAY, I’m excited to experience both games again!

Adding pages to Rosalina’s story in-game AND making the storybook something you can buy??? I see you Nintendo. I’m excited for ALL the emotions.

I’m curious if there will be any Switch 2 optimizations…

Mario Tennis Fever

Releasing February 12, 2026

Oh hey, a new Mario Tennis game! With new equipment in the fever rackets and filling with things such as Wonder Flower powers, I’m excited to see this! So many players and rackets and talking flower commentary.

There are different modes, like tournaments, towers, Mix it Up mode, swing mode, and an adventure mode that has BABIES

This game has Baby Waluigi. I’m sold.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park

Releasing Spring 2026

Having some Mario Wonder DLC is going to be great. Lots of multiplayer options and the return of Phantos? Having the Phantos in a Prop Hunt Style game is interesting.

I love how many co-op modes were added in this game too!

I also saw Captain Toad and the Koopa Kids so I’m excited!

Talking Flower

Releasing Spring 2026

They really are getting their mileage out of the talking flower aren’t they? It’s cute, but I’m not sure how long I could have that on before it started getting on my nerves. There’s a reason you can turn off the talking flower in Super Mario Bros Wonder…

That said, I’m curious if you can change the language like in-game too…

Yoshi and the Mysterious Book

Releasing Spring 2026

Yoshi but make it Pokémon. This looks hecking cute and the research bit brings a very different game dynamic.

Regular Direct

Storm Lancers

Available Sept 12, 2025

This is a side scrolling roguelike that’s inspired by 80s Anime? It looks so cool and has a variety of different weapons and styles and being a roguelike there’s plenty to upgrade.

There is couch co-op, so that’s cool too! I wonder if there’s online co-op too…

Dinkum

Releasing November 5, 2025

Minecraft but set it in Australia. It looks silly but I’m excited to see people play it.

Popucom

Releasing Holiday 2025

After playing Split Fiction, I’ve learned the enjoyment of co-op games like this. The color mechanics provide an incredibly unique gameplay mechanic that would definitely promote the cooperative nature of the game!

Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream

Releasing Spring 2026

I loved the 3DS Tomodachi Life. So much. When they announced this before. Everything about this game is wacky and I’m excited to make a bunch of my friends and live the dream of having all my friends live in the same apartment/island.

Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection

Releasing October 30, 2025 (Digital) and December 12, 2025 (Physical)

You might not know this, but I love the original Mortal Kombat games. The fact that this collection has Mythologies Sub Zero saves me from having to find the original N64 cart online somewhere to play. I hope the N64 version of Trilogy is on there and not just the PS1 version. So many hours were spent growing up playing Trilogy on the N64 (I was only allowed as a kid if the blood was turned off)

Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade

Releasing January 22, 2026 on Switch 2

I’ve heard so much of Final Fantasy 7, yet I’ve never played it. I’ve only played one or two of them. It’d be cool to experience the game that Cloud and Sephiroth from Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is from!

Lynked: Banner of the Spark

Releases today (September 12, 2025)

Another Roguelike. It’s pretty. There’s also fishing and farming. Probably not a pickup from me but I imagine people who like those kinds of games would enjoy the game!

Hades 2

Releasing September 25, 2025 (Digital) and November 20, 2025 (Physical)

I enjoyed (but never finished) Hades 1, but I’ve heard good things about Hades 2! The concept looks cool. Who doesn’t like to fight time? I do every week!

Kirby Air Riders + Amiibo

THEY HAVE AMIIBO WITH INTERCHANGEABLE RIDERS. Training amiibos I expected but having the ability to swap IRL looks really cool! They announced these two but they said more are coming. Also another Air Riders Direct. I’m looking forward to this game. Like, a lot.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment

Releasing November 6, 2025

Let’s mess up the Zelda Timeline more with a Warriors game! Lots of familiar things if you played Tears of the Kingdom, and YOU CAN PLAY AS A KOROK!

Also they mention Gameshare. I mean it, Single Pak Gameplay from the Game Boy Advance and Download Play from the DS walked so GameShare could run.

Dragon Quest VII Reimagined

Releasing February 5, 2026

I never played a Dragon Quest game. The art is very stylized but it felt…off to me? I hope those of you who play Dragon Quest games are excited for this. More RPGs and such!

Was this guy always such a chad in design?

Nintendo Today App

I enjoy the Nintendo Today App and the news it gives. The Kirby theme is cute!

Virtual Boy – Nintendo Classics

Releasing February 17, 2026

I screamed. Mouth open. WHAT. THE VIRTUAL BOY??????

Interesting that you HAVE to use the accessory to play it. 14 games planned to release. I can’t. I’m excited.

I don’t know if I’ll be able to stream it….which is a bummer. We’ll see

FATAL FRAME II: Crimson Butterfly REMAKE

Releasing Early 2026

I know this game from a Smash Assist Trophy. It looks creepy. Use a camera to pacify ghosts. Sanity meters and such. Not sure how to feel about it.

Switch 2 Upgrades

There are upgrades to these Switch 1 games for Switch 2:
- One Piece Pirate Warriors 4 – Fall 2025
- Overcooked 2 – Holiday 2025
- Stardew Valley – Fall 2025 (Mouse controls and Gameshare!)
- Human Fall Flat – Spring 2026 (Mouse Controls!)
Powerwash Simulator 2

Releasing Fall 2025

I literally played the first Powerwash Simulator for the first time earlier this week. The second one looks nice. There’s so much to clean. It also has 4-player co-op!

Suika Game Planet

Available Winter 2025

OMG SUIKA GAME. They took it and made it 360º! This looks cute and I did enjoy the original Suika Game.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

Releasing December 4, 2025

Samus with a bike? The game looks really cool. I’m so behind. I haven’t played any of the Metroid Prime games but this one looks cool. I have the first remaster but have yet to play it.

There are also some cool Metroid Amiibo to look at

Donkey Kong Bananza DK Island & Emerald Rush

Available Today (September 12, 2025)

Another one I screamed at. THE DK64 THEME AND DK ISLE?!??!?!???!?

It’s really cool that they did DLC for this as early as they did. I’m pretty sure I said something in one of my Bananza streams that it’d be cool to revisit DK Isle since it was mentioned but I didn’t think they’d actually do it!

It looks like a roguelike type of DLC? Lots of perks and skills to upgrade and such. Kind of cool that you get to use the Bananza skills as well!

Also you’re looking for emeralds. Thankfully they’re not Chaos Emeralds, or Knuckles would like to have a word.

Pokémon Pokopia

Releasing 2026

Oh no. Ditto turning into a human? I know they did it in Detective Pikachu but I didn’t think they’d do it in a game (if they have already, I must’ve missed this)

This is basically Minecraft but Pokémon, right? RIGHT!?

It was cute and the Gen 1 music got me. Not sure if I’ll pick it up…but probably will.

Pokémon Legends Z-A

Releasing October 16, 2025

I’m intrigued with this game and the scope of it. The mega evolutions look cool and Lumiose just looks really good. Having one town as the entire gameplay is an interesting mechanic although it is a giant city. The story is going to be interesting as well!

And there’s ALREADY DLC????

Mega evos of Raichu look cute. I know some folk who are probably stoked about that!

Danganronpa 2×2

Releases 2026

I know nothing of this game other than the bear. It seems cool enough?

Dynasty Warriors: Origins

Releasing January 22, 2026

With Hyrule Warriors on Switch, this makes sense.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection

Releases March 13, 2026

Another franchise I’m not big into, but it’s also pretty and I’m guessing some folks are hyped for these as well!

Other Games and Releases
- Two Point Museum – October 28, 2025
- Disgaea 7 Complete – October 10, 2025
- EA Sports FC™ 26 – September 26, 2025
- Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake – October 30, 2025
- Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. World Stage – Winter 2025
- LEGO® Voyagers – September 15, 2025
- Little Nightmares III – October 10, 2025
- Persona 3 Reload – October 23, 2025
From this list, I’m most hyped for LEGO® Voyagers!

Resident Evil Requiem

Releasing February 27, 2026

I haven’t played any of the Resident Evil games but I know a few folks who have attested that they’re good. They’ve been on my radar but I haven’t played them. They’re also releasing Biohazard and Village on the same day on Switch 2. Excited to perhaps play them sometime!

Fire Emblem Fortune’s Weave

Releasing 2026

Another game that I only know because of Smash Bros. It’s apparently happening during other games?

Conclusion

Some really solid announcements during this Nintendo Direct! The one that threw me off the most was the Virtual Boy announcement and the one that hyped me the most was probably the Bananza DLC. Also BABY WALUIGI’S DEBUT (I’m fairly certain?). I was hoping to see some N64 NSO announcements (Smash Bros? DK64?) but I am content with what I saw today.

What did you think? Let me know in the comments or join our conversation on my Discord Server!
September 12, 2025
SuperQuest: The Game I Didn’t Know I Needed

A few weeks ago, I received a random message on my BlueSky from a developer asking if I wanted to try out their game. I jokingly asked if it was going to be one of those games that’ll just steal all my information, and their response was this:

It’s totally gonna steal all of your info, but I’m sure the game will be funny enough to make up for it.

I didn’t see it to start, but that response was a perfect example of what I was going to experience moving forward.

If you didn’t figure it out, I did receive a game key from the developer (but I also purchased a copy and gave it away? That’s also probably a tell of how this review is going to go…?)

The Vibe

When I started the game, I was welcomed by an interactive menu where you can select menu items by bringing your character to each item. As I was just making sure it started okay, I went to the “exit game” button and there was what I can only describe as an FMV quality missile and explosion to my character and then the game quit. I knew then this game was for me.

A screenshot from the game, highlighting some of the humor.

The game itself is an RPG. You play as Rico, a hero type that is totally full of himself. Very big himbo energy. You also meet a few other characters throughout the game. Each character has a unique personality that all melds into one interesting experience!

The Gameplay

Being an RPG, it majorly features your character from a top-down perspective. There are puzzles to be solved in-world and great NPCs to constantly check on. There are also turn-based battles in the game. The battle system feels very similar to games like Undertale or Deltarune. The battle system also has an ACT system called “Trick” in which you can do some other types of actions toward the enemy. There’s no spare system (that I saw) in the game, but the tricks can do things such as raise or lower attack and defense or deal massive damage depending on the action. The fight mechanic is a quick time event similar to the fight mechanic in Undertale, so it was a welcome, familiar action.

As long as you’re paying attention to the story, it’s not hard to know where you have to go. Thankfully it’s also set in a way that even if you don’t, there are enough roadblocks that you’ll eventually get to where you want to go.

The Music

Music has become a major component for me when I’m looking at games, and SuperQuest has its fair share of great songs. Its soundtrack uses a soundfont remniscent of the Sega Genesis and other 16-bit consoles while still using modern samples as well. Just check out this battle theme from the game:

The song “Showdown” from the game SuperQuest

There were a few times in stream in which I just zoned out and vibed to the music, which is a good sign!

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a good laugh and casual experience with not a lot of seriousness, check out SuperQuest. The game is only about $10 USD and is well worth it. There also seems to be updates coming in the near future hinted by areas in the game (which the dev confirmed to be free DLC) so I’m excited to come back and play the game!

Check out the highlights from the two streams below or head to the SuperQuest Game Page on my website to see the playlist of VODs from the streams!

Rating

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Check out SuperQuest on Steam

June 13, 2025
Tons Reviews Adventure Time: Pirates of the Enchiridion

As I began “Adventure Time: Pirates of the Enchiridion,” I couldn’t help but feel a pang of nostalgia for the good ol’ days of simpler animations. This game, inspired by the world of Adventure Time, was so vibrant and engaging, where the colors were brighter, the humor was quirky, and the characters were downright charming.

The game’s premise, the Land of Ooo suddenly submerged in water and transformed into a vast ocean, added a fresh twist to the Adventure Time saga. It was like revisiting an old, familiar town that had undergone an unexpected renovation. The vibrant visuals and the familiar faces of Finn, Jake, and company brought a grin to this old gamer, reminding me of the countless afternoons I spent watching the animated series.

Yet, as I delved deeper into the game, the flaws began to show. The open-world concept was a commendable attempt at innovation, but it left me a bit wanting at times, yearning for the more straightforward narratives of the past. The scattered side quests felt like detours rather than meaningful additions to the plot, leaving me wondering if the game was trying too hard to capture the spirit of exploration.

The combat system, while engaging, was a tad repetitive. The turn-based battles were reminiscent of older RPGs, but the lack of strategic depth left me longing for a more indepth experience. It seemed as though the developers had set up the system and were unsure of the direction they wanted the gameplay to take.

As I delved into the story of “Pirates of the Enchiridion,” I couldn’t shake the feeling that this was a missed opportunity. The potential for a grand adventure in the Adventure Time universe was evident, but the execution left me craving more of the endearing chaos that was the show.

In conclusion, “Adventure Time: Pirates of the Enchiridion” is a valiant effort to expand the horizons of a beloved franchise. For those seeking a casual voyage through familiar waters, it offers a nostalgic trip back to the Land of Ooo. However, for me, the game fell short of capturing the magic that made Adventure Time an animated treasure worth cherishing.

December 19, 2023
Super Crazy Rhythm Castle – Review

Disclosure: I received a free review copy of this product from https://www.keymailer.co

I have an incredible soft spot for rhythm games. Games like Dance Dance Revolution, Guitar Hero, Cadence of Hyrule, and Hi-Fi Rush, just to name a few. Super Crazy Rhythm Castle takes the concepts from these games and creates a unique game with a lot of charm and sass that can provide hours of entertainment, both alone and with up to three friends.

The idea of the game is that you are one of four characters who set off to challenge King Ferdinand in the castle to take his crown and become the next ruler. As you enter the castle, things immediately become apparent that this isn’t going to be a simple walk in the park. The tutorial takes you through the basics, and a lot of the gameplay is done on a track like a game like Guitar Hero.

Gameplay can vary based on the different levels that you will enter in the castle. Some games are simple, in which you just tap the buttons along to the music. Others might have you destroying things or converting followers to your side or telling a story. The gameplay is never tedious, although there can be a learning curve if you want to do well in the ratings. Each level of the game is rated on a three-star level based on your performance in the level. I started the first few levels doing well with three stars, but then suddenly, I hit a level and started hitting a streak of one-star levels.

One of the bigger aspects of the game is its music selection. The genres that are covered are incredibly diverse, and you could be listening to a flamenco-style song in one moment, and in the very next moment, you’d be listening to a song that sounds like it came off a Skillet CD from the 90s or early 2000s, and then follow it up with a song that sounds like the ending credits song to an anime.

Another aspect of the game that stood out to me was the writing. The dialogue for King Ferdinand cracked me up and I was always looking forward to what he was going to say to me. The NPCs as well have clever phrases that have me chuckling throughout the game.

While the game is fun and the music is catchy, there are some issues with scaling in difficulty, especially when playing solo. I would give Super Crazy Rhythm Castle a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Learn more about Super Crazy Rhythm Castle on Steam!

Check out my VOD from when I streamed it for the first time below on my Bundy’s Stream Land Channel, and don’t forget to follow me on Twitch!

December 15, 2023
Recap: GalaxyCon 2023

I happened to have the opportunity to go to another convention! I went for one day to GalaxyCon over in Columbus, Ohio!

According to its website, GalaxyCon describes itself this way:

GalaxyCon is a FESTIVAL OF FANDOM with celebrities, artists, writers, voice actors, cosplayers, entertainers, creators, wrestlers, fan groups, panelists, and PEOPLE LIKE YOU!!

The convention took place at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, which was a lot larger than the Expo Center that we went to for TORG. The convention was a bustling hub of excitement and creativity, with a myriad of booths and displays to explore!

I went again with my brother-in-law to this convention. My sister didn’t come along because she was sick, but I was able to meet up with Obiwan362 and some other friends to get the show on the road. My brother-in-law and I got there first and were able to stand through a LONG line that moved relatively quickly and received our lanyards.

While we waited for people to arrive, we were sitting out in the lobby and I found a group that did some cosplay as crewmates from Among Us, and OF COURSE I had to get a group picture with them. I don’t know about you, but pink seems sus.

Once we finally entered the convention, we did a lap or so around the convention center to get an idea of what was around and what we could potentially see or do. Three halls worth of artists, vendors, and more and I couldn’t decide where to start.

As we ended the first lap around the center, my brother-in-law found a gigantic replica of Appa from Avatar: The Last Airbender and you were able to pay to get a photo in front of or on top of. It was so fluffy and incredibly well made!

Near the Sky Bison was the video gaming area which was obviously an area in which I was drawn. In this area, I was able to meet the content creator Abdallah Smash who was there as a guest. I was able to challenge him to a game of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (and lost miserably) but he was great to interact with in-person and I was also able to grab three mini-figures from Super Mario RPG!

If you’re not aware from my Twitch stream, I’m a man of many hats both literally and figuratively. I was on the lookout for a unique hat that I can add to my collection to wear on stream. Thankfully one of the vendors had a bunch of Pokémon hats and I purchased a Bidoof hat! I don’t normally talk about Bidoof but it’s probably in the top ten or at least 25 of my favorite Pokémon.

It was approaching lunch time and we ended up going to lunch at the North Market, which is a marketplace a block or so from the convention center. I love going to the North Market because of how varied the food choices are there.

We returned to the convention, and I wanted to make sure to hit a few stores and see a few people! I went over to the Hero Strong booth where one of my friends was and entered a raffle and was exposed to the art that was “Cosplay Wrestling.”

I went back to Abdallah’s booth and ended up getting the other two Mario RPG mini-figures and re-challenged him but to Smash Ultimate this time. I really should practice these games more. I didn’t win again…

We ended the night by going to Pho Social and then driving home. I was incredibly energized from the experience and cannot wait for my next convention (or expo) adventure!

The convention itself was a fantastic experience, but my feet were so sore at the end of the day. I kind of wish that I was able to attend longer than I did, but unfortunately, I was unable to due to previous obligations.

Finally, enjoy some photos from GalaxyCon!

Waiting in line for a ticket/registration

The Among Us Crew with Andy. The

Andy and his brother-in-law with Appa the Sky Bison

Andy and Abdallah Smash

Andy and his brand new Bidoof hat

Andy’s crew at lunch!

Andy and Sir Lefty!

An amazing Spring Bonnie/Glitchtrap/Springtrap/etc. cosplayer!

Andy and the heroes of Hero Strong!

An amazing Wolverine cosplayer!

December 4, 2023
My Suika – Watermelon Game A Refreshing Twist in Gaming for Focus and Fun!

Introduction

Dive into the juicy world of My Suika – Watermelon Game, the watermelon-themed game that’s not just a feast for your eyes but also a treat for your focus! This game offers a refreshing take on gaming that combines entertainment with cognitive benefits.

Graphics and Design

My Suika boasts colorful, eye-pleasing graphics that pop off the screen. The watermelon theme is not just a visual delight, but it’s also known to have a calming effect, making it an ideal choice for those with ADHD. The game’s design is intuitive, keeping players engaged without overwhelming them.

Gameplay

With easy-to-follow gameplay mechanics, My Suika strikes the perfect balance between challenge and enjoyment. For me, the levels stimulate cognitive functions, making it an excellent choice for individuals looking to enhance focus and concentration. The game’s dynamic pacing keeps players on their toes, preventing monotony and promoting sustained engagement.

ADHD-Friendly Features

My Suika stands out as an ADHD-friendly game with features tailored to support players with attention difficulties. The incorporation of visual and auditory cues helps maintain focus, while the gameplay structure is designed to provide a sense of accomplishment, boosting confidence and motivation.

Social Media Buzz

Join the #MySuikaChallenge and share your high scores! Whether you’re a gaming pro or new to the scene, My Suika welcomes all players. Let’s build a community of watermelon warriors! #GamingForFocus #SuikaGame #ADHDGaming

Overall

My Suika successfully marries entertainment with cognitive benefits, making it a standout choice for gamers seeking a mindful and enjoyable experience. With its visually appealing design, accessible gameplay, and ADHD-friendly features, My Suika is a must-try for anyone looking to pop off some sweet serotonin.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2671970/My_Suika__Watermelon_Game/

November 30, 2023
Tons Reviews: Adventure Pals

As a jaded gamer, finding a game that not only entertains but also resonates with my sense of joy and camaraderie can be a challenge. However, Adventure Pals has given me hope, lighting up my gaming world in a most delightful way!

I greatly enjoyed the vibrant visuals and whimsical characters that make Adventure Pals a true masterpiece. The storyline is not only engaging but also heartwarming. I found myself genuinely invested in the protagonist’s quest to save his beloved pet giraffe and stop the nefarious Mr. B from ruining the world. It’s a tale of friendship and courage that transcends boundaries.

But what truly sets Adventure Pals apart is its celebration of individuality. The diverse cast of characters reflects the diversity of the real world, and it’s refreshing to see a game that doesn’t shy away from showcasing the richness of different personalities and backgrounds.

The inclusivity and positive vibes that radiate from this game create a gaming environment where everyone is welcome. It’s like attending the ultimate inclusivity party in digital form!

The gameplay mechanics are smooth and accessible, making Adventure Pals a joy to play for both casual and hardcore gamers alike. The co-op feature adds an extra layer of fun, and teaming up with friends for this adventure is an experience that fosters the same sense of camaraderie and unity that we celebrate in gaming circles.

In conclusion, Adventure Pals isn’t just a game; it’s a celebration of life, love, and friendship. From its stunning visuals to its heartfelt narrative, this game has earned a special place in my heart. It’s a reminder that, just like in the game, our diverse backgrounds and unique qualities make our shared journey all the more colorful and exciting.

Adventure Pals has not only given me hours (around 24 between playing with friends and completing all achievements) of entertainment but also left me with a profound sense of happiness and warmth. Bravo to the developers for creating a game that not only entertains but also uplifts the spirit! So, grab your controllers and get ready for an adventure that will make your heart soar!

November 20, 2023
All The Mario World’s A Stage, and That’s Wonderful

This article is a repost from Jeremy’s Cohost page. You can find the original here:
https://cohost.org/Jeremy-Writes/post/3453170-all-the-mario-world

(This article was made possible by the tips from kind folks on ko-fi. If you’d like to see more articles like this from me, consider donating from my ko-fi page: https://ko-fi.com/jeremysignor)

The title screen of Super Mario Bros. 3 started with a curtain drawn over a black and white tile floor, eventually lifting to reveal Mario like you’d never seen him before thanks to a shiny new graphical style that pushed the NES further than it’s ever been pushed before in a Mario game. But look closer at the series as a whole, and you’ll start to see these motifs of the trappings of performance peppering the games, revealing a design style that Nintendo continues to use for Mario games that emphasize the performative aspect of the games, with Super Mario Bros. Wonder being the ultimate culmination of this philosophy. With Wonder, Nintendo has laid bare its desire to put on a variety show for the player, and even those observing the player.

Mario didn’t start out as a proxy performer, but his games did go out of their way to establish that they are a layer removed from reality. Super Mario Bros. stars a plumber who is transported to a magical kingdom full of strange creatures to rescue a princess. In this case, Mario serves as the audience stand-in on all levels as you witness the fantastical and dangerous elements of the Mushroom Kingdom unfold. In Super Mario Bros. 2, everything takes place in a dream, a show for the slumbering mind. It wasn’t until 3 that the series coalesced around subtle nods to theater, performance, and other media tropes thanks to its stagecraft wrapping.

But a curtain is not the only nod to showmanship to appear in the series. In Super Mario World, you see usage of iris in and iris out, techniques seen in television shows. Super Mario All-Stars, the four-game SNES collection that remade all the NES Mario games in 16 bits, the title screen features a darkened scene with Mario characters talking and forming a din of conversational noise until the player pushes a button, when the scene lights up. This is very much like an intermission in the middle of a play. The Yoshi’s Island spinoffs have a storybook motif. And Super Mario 64 has a lakitu following Mario with a camera on a fishing line to explain the game camera to players. At every turn, Mario dips into the language of entertainment media to ground itself.

It’s fitting, because the Mario series established the template for how platforming games would be structured for generations to come. 3 brought the idea of biomes to the forefront, building on the concept of themed worlds introduced in 2 to the forefront. World added little touches of continuity into a game that absolutely didn’t need it but was enriched by it all the same. The sunken airship level right before the final world was a callback to the airships of 3 while having a completely new feel thanks to the sunken ghost ship motif. The stage, as they say, was set, paving the way for Wonder to deliver on its own media inspiration: variety shows.

All games try to offer a good variety of different things to do, but Mario games began to embrace the ethos of variety increasingly with each game. Consider the numbered platform from Super Mario World that moves horizontally until the number on them counts down to zero, then they fall. Known as Count-Lifts, they only appear in Valley of Bowser 3 and are used nowhere else in the game. As we’ve seen from SMW romhacks, Count-Lifts have amazing potential that was never explored in World proper. This would become a pattern in Nintendo’s design philosophy, as they would increasingly create gameplay elements that would only exist once or twice in a game before moving on to something else. The practice would culminate in Super Mario Bros. Wonder, where every level is wildly different than the next, but more importantly, it solidified its showmanship chops thanks to how it presented new elements to the player.

In any good comedy or magic act, there are two main phases, before the turn and after the turn. “The turn” is the moment when the nature of a skit or trick fully reveals itself to the audience, a moment of surprise as the act morphs into something new that was always present in the background. This perfectly describes the flow of Wonder levels thanks to the Wonder Flower feature they all have. Each level starts with a different theme or gimmick that usually is in line with the meat-and-potatoes platforming that the New Super Mario Bros. series delivered. Then you find a Wonder Flower, and everything changes. The level morphs into something new that still sticks to the level theme somehow. Sometimes the way the player plays the game completely changes, or even the player character turns into something new temporarily.

The key is the surprise factor, but also in how big and splashy the Wonder Flower sections are. There are even several musical number flowers, where enemies will perform an actual song as the stage continues. The second level in the game, which features piranha plants singing a song complete with choreography, is usually where players will know if they’re on board with the game or not. It’s big, splashy, surprising, and yet goes perfectly with the piranha plant theme of the level up until that point. And while there are several actual musical numbers in the game, the thing that all Wonder Flower set pieces share is spectacle, new mechanics and audiovisuals that jump off the screen and stick with you well past when you turn the game off.

It’s useful to think of the musical numbers because that provides a mental throughway to the variety show metaphor. Think of shows like Saturday Night Live or The Carol Burnett Show, with their many skits and musical numbers. Though any one could be expanded upon to create its own show or act – think how Mama’s Family spun out of The Carol Burnett Show – that’s not the goal of these ensembles. It’s to dazzle you and leave you guessing as to what’s next. It’s not a coincidence that Super Mario World romhacks became such a hit on Twitch. Mario has always been as fun to watch as it is to play, and it’s thanks to the sheer variety and mechanics that elicit many different emotions – joy, frustration, good humor, exhilaration. Super Mario Bros. Wonder leans into all these things to create what might be the ultimate expression of Mario, one deserving of a curtain call.

November 17, 2023
Top 5 Favorite Streamed Games of 2022
2022 was a great year, and although my streaming time was shorter than in years past, I wanted to kind of give my thoughts on the top 5 games that I streamed (according to hours streamed) on Twitch this year!

5. Mario Party Superstars

Who doesn’t love a good game of Mario Party? A lot of times throughout especially the beginning of 2022, I had a ton of fun playing Mario Party boards with friends. The games were fun, and although we still don’t currently have DLC for the game, I have made some memorable moments with friends!

Huge shout out to all of the friends I played Mario Party Superstars with this year:
I think that’s my favorite part of Mario Party…playing with others…

Clip of Mario Party Superstars, clipped by me

4. Pokémon: Shining Pearl

For some reason, I skipped this generation when it originally came out on the DS. It was interesting venturing into the Sinnoh region and went in blind. I don’t know how far I would’ve gotten in the game if I had not streamed it. I can’t say that it would be my favorite generation, but I enjoyed the experience!

Clip of Pokémon Shining Pearl, clipped by me

3. Banjo-Kazooie

This obviously shouldn’t surprise anyone that Banjo-Kazooie shows up in the list of games I play the most on a stream. This year, there was a Banjo-Kazooie randomizer that was released, and I really enjoyed playing through the game in a new and fresh way. I don’t think there were any ROM hacks that I played this year, but maybe? Being the third highest in stream time, I don’t know if there was anything else, but the randomizer is worth my time. I would consider doing another seed or so in the future…

A clip from the Banjo-Kazooie Randomizer, clipped by Captain_Dyablos

2. Earthbound

I had never played Earthbound before, and it was fun taking the journey and COMPLETING the game! The humor in the game was hilarious, and the game was honestly difficult. I was thankful that I was able to finish it without too much trouble.

Clip from Earthbound, clipped by TheArcadeBear

1. Pokémon Legends: Arceus

It’s funny that this year I not only explored Sinnoh, but also its ancestor region of Hisui. This game was massive, so it’s understandable that it’s the most streamed game of mine in 2022. It was so interesting getting to see the historic region of Hisui and seeing connections to the current day, especially since I was playing Shining Pearl around the same time.

Clip from Pokémon Legends: Arceus, clipped by CurbyB0i

Honorable mentions go to Mario Party 2 (Top Game for Average Viewers) and Sonic Adventure DX (Top Game for Max Viewers) for being the top games when sorting by other data.

I’ve been so thankful this year for everyone who has participated, supported, or lurked in the streams that I’ve done this year. What were your favorite streams this year? Do you have any games you are looking forward to seeing in 2023? Are there specific games you want me to stream? Let me know! Either comment on this post, or let me know on social media!

Catch the story version here:
December 29, 2022
Rating the Wave 1 tracks in the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe booster pass

The Mario Kart 8 Deluxe first wave of DLC tracks released this morning and despite being out of town on a work trip, I wanted to make sure that I could at least try out each track and talk about it. There are two new cups equaling at 8 new tracks, so let’s jump in and see what there is to see!

Keep in mind that these are solely first impressions and my opinion is likely to change.

Golden Dash Cup

Course Selection Screen

Paris Promenade (Mario Kart Tour)

The first new track, Paris Promenade, from Mario Kart Tour

The first track makes Paris canon in Mario Kart, so I’m not sure how to feel about that. The course itself is fairly straightforward, at least until the last lap. There’s really only one spot I kept crashing into the side of the map near the end but they have enough arrows that I was never really lost. That being said, the third lap takes you around a totally separate route which totally messed me up. I know in Mario Kart Tour there are some alternate routes in certain tracks, but I didn’t think they’d combine them into one race. That part was a pleasant surprise!

The Eiffel Tower looks pretty great.

I don’t know why but my brain kept making me hit this each lap.

Rating: 4/5

Toad Circuit (3DS)

Toad Circuit from Mario Kart 7 but HD

I remember when I got Mario Kart 7 for my 3ds. It was so exciting that I was going to be playing Mario Kart on the go and Toad Circuit was that very first track you played. (Fun fact: I’m pretty sure this course is also the practice track when you download new data in Mario Kart Tour)

The track itself is straightforward, as originally the course was an intro to the game. It looks pretty, although as detailed as the road is, the audience is still a little pixelated but didn’t detract from the overall experience, especially since I was playing in handheld mode.

Rating: 3/5

Choco Mountain (N64)

Choco Mountain from Mario Kart 64

Choco Mountain was one of my favorite tracks in Mario Kart 64. The boulders falling, the falling and having to redo the lap….this new version is also pretty similar to the Mario Kart Tour version of the same track, with the big jump over a void and the bats flying out. Again not hateful but you can definitely see the similarities. They did add a gap and a guard rail to the course so you don’t have to worry about falling off as much.

One thing I didn’t care for were the couple of places where there was a high gap and there were around 10-15 paratroopas….just staring at us. Menacingly.

Rating: 3/5

Coconut Mall (Wii)

Coconut Mall from Mario Kart Wii

I don’t know if anyone else is seeing a trend here …. but did anyone play the Mario Kart Tour version of Coconut Mall? It’s not 1 to 1, but I think that it’s influenced. One thing that’s different is that the cars at the end DON’T MOVE! They’re also piloted by Shy Guys instead of Miis, so I don’t feel bad that my Mii PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF ME AGAIN!

I also know some people were irritated by the arrows on the escalators but that doesn’t bother me. It helps me know why I’m struggling to go up/down.

Rating: 3/5

Lucky Cat Cup

Lucky Cat Cup

Tokyo Blur (Mario Kart Tour)

Tokyo Blur from Mario Kart Tour

I think I missed the part of MKT when this track was live. It was nifty. Like Paris Promenade, the course changes a lot. In fact, this one changes course each lap. I’m not sure how to feel but it did make it interesting when I thought I knew where I was going and the arrows said NOPE. The thwomps were a nice touch and it was another reminder that I still eventually want to visit Tokyo. Also Tokyo is canon in Mario Kart now.

Rating: 4/5

Shroom Ridge (DS)

Shroom Ridge from Mario Kart DS

Shroom Ridge is next. The course was neat and had some cool tricks you can perform if you’re feeling daring (and maybe have a mushroom). The aesthetic is very Mushroom Kingdom-y and blocky but I loved it in terms of upscaling a DS track.

Rating: 4/5

Sky Garden (GBA)

Sky Garden from Mario Kart: Super Circuit

So confession: I’ve never played Mario Kart: Super Circuit, so I came into this course blind. I loved the sky aesthetic of it all and the option to bounce off mushrooms and leaves was fun. This was another course with paratroopas staring at me as I drove by. *shudders*

Rating: 4/5

Ninja Hideaway

Ninja Hideaway from (I think) Mario Kart Tour. Surprisingly not labeled in-game

Okay so this one I’d not heard of. Doing some research previously links this to Mario Kart Tour. The premise of this is you’re driving through a place and basically infiltrating the shy guy encampment. The cool part of this track is the multiple routes you can take, from driving on the roofs to avoiding shurikens and shy guys who disappear and leave behind bananas. Are Shy Guys part of the Yiga Clan? 🤔

Rating: 5/5

All in all this first wave was okay. I was happy to see some new, refreshing courses in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. I’m hoping that the rest of the DLC will be this solid. I’m also hoping for Waluigi Pinball, which given the amount of tracks that were also in Mario Kart Tour, I have hope.

What did you think of the first wave of DLC tracks? Let me know in the comments or let’s talk about it in my Discord Server!

March 18, 2022
Deltarune Chapter 2: A Quick Review

So last week I went and streamed a whole 6 hours and played through Deltarune: Chapter 2, which is the sequel to Deltarune: Chapter 1 (go figure).

Here’s the full stream if you want to watch the craziness:

Full Stream of Deltarune Chapter 2 (Originally Streamed on Sep 21, 2021)

So the game is incredibly quirky. I love it. The humor is on point and Toby Fox really knew what he was doing when he made this chapter. Without going too much into it, the interpersonal relationships between all of the characters feel genuine, and I was chuckling and laughing the entire time that I’m streaming.

I was talking with a friend of mine and he did mention that I haven’t done parts of the game, so I fully plan to revisit this on stream some time in the near future. This review is going to go based on what I have experienced.

Gameplay

The RPG aspect of Undertale/Deltarune is incredibly intuitive, and I was able to get back into the hang of the game relatively quickly. At least on the Steam version, I was able to use both the keyboard and controllers (I opted for Xbox Controllers personally) in-game.

The combat is similar to the previous games in that you can either attack or perform “actions” to spare and recruit baddies to your cause. The ACT in battle is hilarious because each action is unique based on the baddy. It relies heavily on the writing, although there are some actions in which you’ll need to perform some sort of timed action, such as throwing an object or dropping one.

There are a few more mini-games in this chapter than the previous one and it’s amazing. One I noticed straight away as a clone of a well-known Nintendo IP and was enamored by it.

Music

As with Undertale and Deltarune, Toby Fox released a banger soundtrack. The music was really good with a soundtrack of multiple styles and did a fantastic job of supplementing the mood with a soundtrack that just amplified the mood. I’m eagerly waiting on YouTube Music to put the Chapter 2 Soundtrack up…I love listening to music in my car from there.

Characters

Many characters from Deltarune Chapter 1 return in this game in various forms, and there are also many new characters you’ll meet in the game. The great thing about the Undertale/Deltarune series is that each character, either player characters or NPCs, have distinct personalities.

Conclusion/Rating

This game has been a roller coaster of a ride and if I know Toby Fox, I know that I’ve only scratched the surface with what this game has to uncover. There are a few more chapters coming down the path so I’m excited to see where the story goes past this. The ending left me on a gigantic cliffhanger and while the chapter itself was only around 6 hours, I had an incredibly enjoyable time with it!

I’m going to give this game a rating of:

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

4.5/5

Do you agree? What do you think of the game? Let me know in the comments or in my Discord Server!

September 27, 2021