Nintendo Dads Podcast #561: 2025 Game of the Year
Jan 9, 2026
Tune in for a lively discussion on gaming anniversaries coming in 2026, featuring Zelda, Mario, and more. The hosts share thoughts on the new Mario Tennis Fever trailer and dive into a myriad of upcoming games, including Justin's excitement for Ball X Pit and Tim's praise for Split Fiction’s cooperative gameplay. Highlights include personal favorites like Pokémon Legends ZA and a nostalgic nod to Super Mario Galaxy. Plus, they speculate on 2025's Game of the Year contenders and their gaming experiences.
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Missing Quality Toys For Young Kids
- Marty recalls wishing he had high-quality Mario-themed toys when his kids were small because past merchandise felt low quality.
- His son collected many Mario plushes and then passed them to the next generation.
Third-Party Ports Bolstered Switch Lineup
- 2025's release slate included major third-party ports and Switch 2 editions, widening Switch platform appeal.
- Hosts highlight Fire Emblem Path of Radiance on NSO and multiple cross-platform releases shaping the year.
Comfort Food Platforming On Switch
- Justin describes how Donkey Kong Country Returns HD felt like 'comfort food' and improved over the Wii original's motion controls.
- He enjoyed platforming on Switch with a pro controller and found the challenge satisfying.