When a video game carries a major musical motif through a franchise, it’s impressive to see how it evolves. This week’s Music Monday is going to focus on a song that started on the Game Boy and has been seen as recently as the past few years!
If you’re familiar at all with the Kirby franchise, you know this song. The melody is written to be an earworm and in almost every iteration of Kirby there’s a throwback to this specific tune:
(Shoutout to the creator of this playlist that shows the evolution of the track)
This song has been ingrained in my brain, and I find myself humming it on occasion.
I thought of this too because fun fact: Kirby’s Dream Land was my first Let’s Play when I tried to make YouTube gaming videos for the first time in 2010
Warning: Young Andy video ahead:
What’s your favorite version of the Green Greens theme? Let me know in the comments or let’s discuss it on Discord!
Sometimes video game music can be nostalgic, sometimes it can hold memories. Other times, it can just hit you the first time you hear it. This week’s song? It’s not even a year old yet and it hit me in just the right spot.
This week’s song is “Breaking Through (Heart of Gold)” from Donkey Kong Bananza! Even if you haven’t played the game, you might have heard this during the medley of the Game of the Year songs during The Game Awards:
There’s something about the strings in the song. That combined with the beat and guitar just hits and instant goosebumps. The song tells an abridged story of what happens in the game, which you’ve spent however many hours playing. How your song allows the singer to find you and also the way.
The song also takes bits from Donkey Kong’s history and that mixed with the lyrics of “Let’s go to the core and nothing can stop us now” brings me great joy and almost instant tears every time I hear it
IN FACT, you get an exclusive by reading this…I did actually sing this song and recorded myself doing it. Keeping the song unlisted on YouTube so enjoy!
I bet you thought it was only going to be Retro songs on here, didn’t you?
What do you think of this song? Let me know in the comments or over on Discord!
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!
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!
Splatoon 3’s Grand Fest Event happened September 13-16, 2024. The Grand Fest was a live concert set in a new area of the game in which the three diva bands from the three games, Callie and Marie; Marina and Pearl; and Shiver, Frye, and Big Man, rotate the stages and sing the songs that they’re best known for. It was kind of a big deal. In making the time to play this event, it got me reminiscing a little bit about the impact that Splatoon has made in my life not just as a player, but as a content creator as well!
I made an overlay based off the Splatoon UI since at the time I was playing a TON of Splatoon 2.
It all started with Splatoon 2. The game came out on the Switch and since I didn’t have a Wii U despite what some videos might have led on, I never was able to experience the first game in the series. The game was a breath of fresh air for someone who enjoyed shooter games but didn’t like series like Call of Duty or Medal of Honor. It was quirky, colorful, and fun! In 2019, I decided I would take a day a week and devote it to Splatoon 2 so I could hone my skills a bit. I wasn’t expecting to be amazing or anything, but it was good to have that consistent game to stream.
With that streaming came friends. My current mod FalcoFlyer found me because I happened to be playing the game. Because of Falco (I think), I was introduced to the Splatoon/Variety streamer Fish and all of the Splatoon players in his community. Needless to say, if I ever wanted to play or talk Splatoon, I had a community that I could rely on.
As the game dwindled in popularity after the Final Fest in Splatoon 2, my streamer friends kind of went their own ways, but I was able to maintain those relationships even without the game which was amazing.
Splatoon 3 eventually came out and a lot of friends didn’t really latch on to the game at first. I was hooked and got the game on release. I wasn’t as entrenched in the game although I did enjoy it! I’d play most of the Splatfests when I was available and still made time to play every once in a while.
Even in Splatoon 3 I found friendship through games. I got a bit of a regular team with Kirik the Orc, A MACHINE, WatermelonOrc and Lady_Chuckleton. It was so much fun getting together and playing games and just hanging out in Discord while we Splatoon!
From May 2023, tweets of our teams doing some matches during the Legend of Zelda Crossover Splatfest
The coolest thing in my opinion about Splatoon as a series is how they’ve created a whole culture of music and fashion inside the series. There are so many different musical groups and fashion brands that any player can make their own fashion combos to their heart’s content.
When Splatoon 3 announced their Grand Fest and the fact that all three of the main music groups were going to not only have their own stages but also combine for a number, my heart leaped. Despite not playing the first game, Callie and Marie have had a presence in both games and I’ve definitely grown attached to these characters.
A clip from the stream of the final night of the Grand Fest (September 14, 2024)
Having all three of the groups singing together was ethereal. Nintendo really outdid themselves with the production that went into this festival. I’m incredibly happy that I shared this event with so many of my friends, as I played with so many of my streamer friends, like Kirik, WatermelonOrc, Josh Jepson, and more!
While a lot of people associate me with Banjo-Kazooie, Splatoon has an almost equal part in my heart. I’m so glad of the community that I’ve found through the game and the content I created because of it.
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.
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!
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!
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