

The Besties
Russ Frushtick, Chris Plante, Griffin McElroy, Justin McElroy
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?
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 14, 2023 • 49min
Two new games to play with friends! [Resties]
This podcast discusses two new multiplayer games - Alien Hominid Invasion and KarmaZoo. They also touch on topics such as the Christmas season, anxiety attacks triggered by ads, the evolution of the Alien Homited game series, and the importance of communication in co-op gameplay. Additionally, they explore the mechanics of Caramazoo and recommend idle clicker games without ads.

Nov 10, 2023 • 1h 1min
Eating Snakes and Frogs with Metal Gear Solid 3
The hosts discuss the highs and lows of jungle espionage in Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. They highlight the unique setting, gameplay elements, and the ability to eat snakes. The chapter also praises the intense and creative boss fights in the game. Additionally, they compare the Steam Deck to the Nintendo Switch OLED, and discuss uncovering and translating languages in video games.

Nov 3, 2023 • 1h 2min
Alan Wake 2 is Weirder Than You Could Possibly Imagine
Thirteen years later, Alan Wake returns in a weird and unique game, with mind palaces and clickers. The game is heavily influenced by Twin Peaks, John Carpenter's 'In the Mouth of Madness', and creates something new. The hosts discuss the need for more AAA weird games and the differences between big-budget and indie games. They also touch on 'The Sisters Brothers' book, Spider-Man 2 game, and recommend other JRPG inspired games.

Oct 31, 2023 • 46min
A Halloween video game treat [Resties]
The Resties celebrate Halloween with a discussion on World of Horror, a Japanese horror game inspired by Junji Ito. They also share parenting struggles and brainstorm solutions, funny parenting mishaps, and review horror and Metroidvania video games. They discuss unique art styles, challenging gameplay mechanics, and tease each other about Alan Wake.

Oct 27, 2023 • 1h 2min
Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a Trip and a Half
Discover the wild ride of Super Mario Bros. Wonder and its bizarre game mechanics. Hear about upcoming video games like Death Stranding 2 and Ghost of Tsushima 2. Dive into discussions about the unique gameplay of Wizard with a Gun and Sea of Stars. Plus, get excited for game releases and free codes in the newsletter.

Oct 20, 2023 • 59min
Marvel's Spider-Man 2 vs. Literally Every Other Spider-Man Game
Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is a triumph, boasting double the standard number of Spiders-Men playable in a single installment of this long, storied franchise. But is it better than literally every other Spider-Man game? Let's find out by comparing them one at a time, shall we?Also discussed: The Way of Kings, Killers of the Flower Moon, Teardown Art Vandals DLC, Super Mario WonderSubscribe to our newsletter at besties.fan!
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!

Oct 17, 2023 • 47min
The perfect cozy games for fall [Resties]
Discussion on cozy games for fall, including a Japanese rural life adventure. Exploration of the philosophical implications of the mobile game Desert Golfing. Highlights of Nicole Carpenter on NPR's 1A and a free game called Moon Ring. Exploration of Moon Ring and its accessible features, role-playing elements, and tactical combat mechanics.

Oct 13, 2023 • 54min
Assassin's Creed Mirage Fills Us With Nostabgia (feat. Ron Funches)
Beloved guestie Ron Funches joins as they talk about Assassin's Creed Mirage, the return to the franchise's stealthy roots. They discuss their personal history with the game and the strong motivation to free children from forced labor. They analyze the sneaking mechanics and combat, share their disappointment with Starfield, and discuss playing 'Chance of Sonar' and visiting an inspiring art exhibit at the Broad. They also mention upcoming stand-up comedy shows in Las Vegas.

Oct 6, 2023 • 52min
The Besties Indie Game Roundup - Fall 2023 Edition
Join us as we discuss our favorite indie games of the past few months, including El Paso Elsewhere, a Max Payne-inspired 3D remake of Kentucky Route Zero, and a game with rapping monster hunters. We also talk about a game with environmental puzzles and unique art style, and dive into gameplay mechanics and progression. Plus, we explore Nintendo Switch controller grips and discuss gripping techniques, a recommended game, a movie review, and upcoming content.

Oct 3, 2023 • 50min
Cocoon is like a puzzle game made by Valve [Resties]
Guest No One Will Save You, a new alien invasion movie exclusive to Hulu is discussed in this episode, along with the puzzle game Cocoon which features carriable cosmos to solve puzzles. The hosts also explore Mario's communication style and compare it to a waiter at Waffle House. They touch on using guides in video games, discuss the home release pattern of Disney 20th Century Fox, and analyze the movie Cocoon, praising its minimal dialogue and emotional storytelling.


