Hello and Happy Holidays!
Welcome back to our latest installment where we share some of the games that have brought us joy during this festive season. This week, we’re diving into the nostalgic memories of Christmas presents and the video games that have left a lasting impact on us throughout the years.
For previous editions of this column, check out our What We’ve Been Playing archive.
A Tale of Pop Star and Need For Speed: Underground 2 on PS2
While I may not have had memorable gaming Christmas gifts growing up, I do cherish the moments of giving the gift of video games. One particular instance that stands out is surprising my son, who shares my passion for gaming, with a Switch and several games five years ago. The sheer delight on his face was priceless, and it’s moments like these that make the holiday season truly magical.
But what may intrigue you more is the time I gifted a copy of Need for Speed: Underground 2 on PS2 to a cousin who later rose to fame as a UK chart-topping pop star in the early 2010s. The family ties may be a bit convoluted, but the joy of sharing a beloved game transcends any complexity.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas! Share with us if you’ve ever gifted a game to someone who became famous.
-Tom O
Can Anything Top the Joy of Playing Zelda During Christmas?
As a gaming journalist, my wish list isn’t extensive this year, given the plethora of games at my disposal. However, I plan to indulge in some NYT Sudoku and finally delve into Star Wars Outlaws. Surprisingly, the allure of Star Wars has captured my interest more than other blockbuster titles this year. Alongside this, my trusty Steam Deck will accompany me with a collection of indie gems I’ve missed out on. At the top of my list is UFO 50.
While my game gifting list is short this year, Unicorn Overlord awaits my younger brother, who already possesses the latest RPG titles. A new Zelda or Xenoblade release would have made perfect presents for my older brothers, with Echoes of Wisdom being a contender. However, upon discovering that my younger brother already owns it, borrowing seems to be the way to go within our rule of never double-buying anything.
Receiving a Nintendo blockbuster game during Christmas has always been a special experience for me, particularly Zelda titles. Despite the mishap of receiving Twilight Princess for the Wii before actually owning the console, the excitement of unwrapping Majora’s Mask in 2000 remains etched in my memory. The allure of that golden cartridge was unmatched, marking a game that was truly mine to cherish.
-Katharine
A Dreamy Christmas with Dreamcast
The transition from Sonic’s classic 2D adventures to the vibrant world of Sonic in 3D on the Dreamcast left me spellbound. Although I missed owning a Dreamcast during its prime, fond memories of playing Sonic Adventure and Soul Calibur with friends linger on. The allure of Dreamcast exclusives like Shenmue and Jet Set Radio has prompted my partner and me to treat ourselves to a Dreamcast this holiday season, embarking on a quest to rediscover these iconic titles.
Embracing nostalgia, we aim to relive the joy of playing titles we missed out on, including Power Stone and Skies of Arcadia. Christmas is a time for reminiscing, and what better way to celebrate than by revisiting classic games that defined an era. Which games do you recommend we revisit?
-Ed
A Fiery Christmas with Spyro 2: Season of Flame on Game Boy Advance SP
Unwrapping Spyro 2: Season of Flame for my Game Boy Advance SP remains a vivid memory from a Christmas past. The thrill of navigating colorful realms and rescuing Fireflies captured my imagination, making it a cherished part of my gaming journey. To this day, Season of Flame serves as a comforting escape, filled with nostalgic levels and engaging gameplay that never fails to delight.
From leveraging Spyro’s elemental breath abilities to exploring diverse characters within the game, Season of Flame holds a special place in my heart as one of the first games I completed. The collaborative moments with my sibling, guiding me through challenging levels, exemplify the true spirit of gaming during the holidays.
As I embark on another playthrough this Christmas, I’m reminded of the enduring joy that Season of Flame has brought me over the years.
-Marie
As we bid farewell to this year, stay tuned for our upcoming Game of the Year features. Share your own cherished gaming Christmas memories with us in the comments, and we wish you a fantastic holiday season.