Here it is, folks. One of two extremely bizarre lists you can look forward to this week. Because we’re taking a break next week, Riddles and I have decided to go out swinging to bring you all our first dual-countdown since Romance Week.
But instead of co-producing two connected lists, we have two independent countdowns. I’ll let Riddles explain his at the right time. For now I’ll briefly explain this one.
A fireside game is a game that you can pull out at any moment and it will soothe the soul in one way or another. It is the perfect mix of nostalgia and comfort. It is a game that gives the same feeling it did the first time you played it. It’s the sort of game that can create the most unique distinct cravings that only the game itself can satisfy.
Now I’ve been able to successfully avoid most of my old standbys while creating this list, so it should make it more interesting to see what comes next knowing it won’t be a Final Fantasy IX/Ocarina of Time love-fest. But that’s enough explanation, onto the list.
#5 Fireside Game – Wave Race: Blue Storm
Yes, I did love Wave Race 64 as well, but I just spent more time learning the exact physics of the best launch title for Nintendo’s purple cube that couldn’t. Something about Blue Storm just makes me remember how I felt back when I owned fewer consoles, fewer games, and spent way more time getting intimate with select titles. Wave Race could also be relentless. A single mistake could throw a whole race which would throw a whole championship. The tracks and characters were few, but that’s what makes this a fireside game. I remember the exact details of every track, the exact intonation of Nigel Carver’s trainer’s voice edging him to do just a little better. The interactive loading screens remind me of what used to impress me, and the whole interface brings me back to a time when it was easier to just be a blissful Nintendo Fanboy.
At least in those days, games like Blue Storm did exist to prove that Nintendo wanted to be cutting edge. To this day, Blue Storm remains one of the most subtle and intense racing games available, and it’s definitely a game I like to pop in during a snowy day to remember my troubled love affair with the Nintendo Gamecube.
I love this idea! Waverace is indeed a great fireside game. We should have a fireside gaming night where we literally sit next to the fireplace and play all the games you mention in this upcoming list.
@CC: Next week, I’m looking forward to the headline “Ethos, CC burn down Canada.”
How did I not notice that comment before? Gold!
I live to entertain :D