What’s on Your Gaming List for Christmas Weekend 2024?

Ollie Reynolds, Staff Writer
You know, I’d never want to downplay the phenomenal work CD Projekt Red and Saber Interactive pulled off getting The Witcher III over to the Nintendo Switch. But when I fired it up for another round recently, the graphics just didn’t hit the same anymore. Back in 2019 it was amazing, but now? Not so much. So, I switched over to my Series X, and boy, is it a step up!

I’ve also been diving into The Thing: Remastered on the PS5. It’s a pretty solid reimagining of the John Carpenter classic, even if it’s got a few rough edges. Kudos to Nightdive—as usual, they’ve done a stellar job enhancing the performance and visuals.

And while it might seem like I’ve abandoned my Switch, don’t worry! There’s something in the works for a review, so stay tuned for that update soon!

Jim Norman, Staff Writer
This weekend, I’m hoping to carve out more time for Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake. Add in a few rounds of Marvel Rivals with friends, and maybe I’ll cross another island or two off in Mario & Luigi: Brothership. But with a holiday visit to my parents on the cards, those plans might have to wait. Instead, it’s all about Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, some Nintendo Switch Sports, and yet another explanation session on Mario Party rules for the family.

Ah, the joys of the festive season. Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas!

Gavin Lane, Editor
There’s a lineup of games I’m eager to dive into. Unicorn Overlord tops my list, with Nine Sols, Tales of Kenzera: ZAU, and Loco Motive not far behind. I snagged Braid: Anniversary Edition on a sweet sale recently, along with the adorable puzzler Railbound for just 99 cents.

I’m also planning to revisit some Yakuza and test out Arco. I’ve heard it has some issues on the Switch, but that 30% discount was too tempting to pass up. Hope you all have an amazing week!

Alana Hagues, Deputy Editor
After conquering Nine Sols, I’m finding myself in a bit of a gaming lull. I should return to Trails through Daybreak or maybe kick off 1000xRESIST, but instead, I’m flitting between Balatro, Tetris DX on NSO, and Bust A Move 4 on the PlayStation.

However, Arco just went on sale, and I’m seriously considering padding out my backlog even more before 2025 sneaks up. Guess I’ll call it an early Christmas gift to myself.

Wishing everyone a safe and joyful holiday season!

Kate Gray, Contributor
This weekend finds me up in the air once again. With my trusty Switch, Steam Deck, and iPad in tow, I’ve got plenty to keep me busy. But, I’ve got a nagging feeling I should get to Brothership—I pre-ordered it ages ago and haven’t even started it yet.

In truth, it’ll probably be Hello Kitty Island Adventure taking up most of my time, along with some picks from the Steam sale like Fields of Mistria, Void Stranger, and Lorelei and The Laser Eyes. Or maybe that ever-growing backlog of mine. Who am I kidding? It’s never the backlog…

Gonçalo Lopes, Contributor
‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, except for me, setting up my mini retro arcades, consoles, and computers under the giant LCD in the living room. It’s the perfect season for nostalgic gaming, a treat for guests of every age who visit during the holidays. My collection of minis isn’t just for show; I’ll be reliving classics on the SNES, Mega Drive, and PC Engine minis. I suspect my newest addition, The Spectrum, will delight friends who stop by and see it nestled next to the A500 Mini.

The game taking center stage this week is New Star GP, as I gear up for the 1990s season championship. I even convinced my dad to grab the PS4 version for his PS5. Truly, there’s nothing like racing with those analogue triggers. Someone over at Nintendo better be taking notes for the next Switch Pro Ultra 2. This kind of tech needs to be part of ‘Mario Kart 9’ already!

Happy holidays, everyone! After another romp through Secret of Mana on SNES (as if you forgot Santa’s cameo!), I’ll catch you later.

(PS: The developers confirmed to me that world ten is the final frontier in Abathor. Sequel soon, maybe?)

Now that I’ve shared our gaming plans for the weekend, we’re eager to hear what’s on your gaming docket. Share with us in the poll what you’ll be playing over the coming days!