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 ep…

Our heroes have a plan to work with Dr. Killdeath and take a secret escape route off the island – but can they fight off a whole hoard of guards first? It's a blast! Abnimals Theme by Justin McElroy, Eric Near (https://bit.ly/ericnearmusic) and Jonathan Coulton (https://www.jonathancoulton.com/). Additional Music in this Episode: "Walk Tall"and "Th…

Griffin's favorite post-watching media analysis! Rachel's favorite alternative to looking out the window! Music: “Money Won’t Pay” by bo en and Augustus – https://open.spotify.com/album/7n6zRzTrGPIHt0kRvmWoya World Central Kitchen: https://wck.org/By Griffin & Rachel McElroy

Griffin has returned from the high seas just in time for us to take a question we’re actually qualified to answer. Along the way we rediscover the rule of threes, join a class action lawsuit, and try to figure out the best counter-move for an icebreaker. Suggested talking points: Adrien Brody’s Gumtoss, Standalone Ball Drawings, Mark Spotify CEO of…

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? J…

Mutt takes his shot. Phileaux gets dressed up. Lady Godwin establishes dominance. Live from the Tampa Theatre, the gang crashes the famous Capulet ball and all hell breaks loose.By Travis McElroy, Clint McElroy, Justin McElroy, Griffin McElroy

We’re celebrating our most gruntable season yet by crafting cool sentences with all the sounds. Wanna know how to join the Donut Club, or Phil’s Inner Circle? The hit play right now, because this is when we do our jobs. Suggested Taking Points: I Am Doctor Chomp, A Huge Influx of Groundhogheads, Skin That Smokewagon, Incidental Beatles Pizza Harmon…

Over the past 12 years, The Besties have — one by one — fallen in love with the Monster Hunter series. The latest entry, Monster Hunter Wilds, is the most welcoming version yet. It’s still a tremendous multiplayer experience, but the group discusses how well this entry works solo. Plus, Plante talks about his new love: the new revival of Tokyo Xtre…

The Abnimals cooperate with the affable Dr. Killdeath in his volcano fortress on Governor's Island. They've gotten in – but can they get out? Sgt. Salamander performed by Brennan Lee Mulligan: https://brennanleemulligan.com/ Abnimals Theme by Justin McElroy, Eric Near (https://bit.ly/ericnearmusic) and Jonathan Coulton (https://www.jonathancoulton.…

Rachel's favorite words of affection sometimes from a dog! Griffin's favorite cousin-spiting artist! Music: “Money Won’t Pay” by bo en and Augustus – https://open.spotify.com/album/7n6zRzTrGPIHt0kRvmWoya World Central Kitchen: https://wck.org/By Griffin & Rachel McElroy

Vroom, vroom! We're staying Faster Than Fear with the first Thunder Drive show straight from Tampa! Things get wet and beachy in Florida as we dole out wisdom about Hulk Hogan, sexy farmers, the least nutty nut, and picking up pheasants. Suggested talking points: Wheres Cars Pees From, Brutus “The Candlestick Maker” Beefcake, Clear Legal Yes, Seagr…

Ahoy, besties! This week, the crew sets sails with Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, a video game that’s as silly as its name suggests. Unlike its predecessor — our best game of 2024 — this entry features a new(ish) protagonist, old-school action combat, and a potpourri of new min-games that borrow from a wide range of Besties favorites, incl…

The Abnimals work with the rest of the Greenback Guardians to find Carver, but must pose as villains to get into the fortress of Governor's Island. It's the team-up of their dream-up! Abnimals Theme by Justin McElroy, Eric Near (https://bit.ly/ericnearmusic) and Jonathan Coulton (https://www.jonathancoulton.com/). Additional Music in this Episode: …

Griffin's favorite real-life non-fighting Pokemon! Rachel's favorite fundamental human child-rearing experience! Music: “Money Won’t Pay” by bo en and Augustus – https://open.spotify.com/album/7n6zRzTrGPIHt0kRvmWoya World Central Kitchen: https://wck.org/By Griffin & Rachel McElroy

We may not be the best at spelling, except for Griffin who once won a McFlurry with his spelling skills. But you know what we are good at? Funny sex numbers! New ways of grinding! And making up new jingles for brands that are definitely not in a familiar, copyrighted tune! Suggested talking points: You Think You Know Everything Dougie, America Runs…