Nintendo's first new side-scrolling Mario game in a decade features Dark Souls-style phantoms, trippy flowers, and a pachyderm power-up that had the internet trumpeting.
In the massively-anticipated game Starfield, space exploration is its own reward. Good thing too, because the slow storyline isn't the star of the show.
Nintendo of America confirmed that Charles Martinet will now serve in the role of "Mario Ambassador," traveling around the world to promote the beloved plumber and perform Nintendo character voices.
This has been one of the biggest years for video games in recent memory. NPR's Leila Fadel talks to gaming editor James Mastromarino about some of the blockbuster releases.
"When nerds get together, we can do a lot of good things," says U.S. Rep. Robert Garcia who's assembling a Congressional caucus on popular arts like gaming, video and movies.
This year has been a blockbuster year for sequels and remakes, along with breakout smaller games. NPR staff and contributors bring you their favorites.