Summary of "Ranking EVERY Nintendo 3D Platformer" – Kinda Funny Gamescast (July 15, 2025)

In this episode of the Kinda Funny Gamescast, hosts Tim Gettys, Greg “GameOverGreggy” Miller, Blessing Adeoye, and Andy Cortez delve deep into the realm of Nintendo's 3D platformers. Released on July 15, 2025, the episode critically examines an IGN article titled "Every Nintendo 3D Platformer Ranked" by Ryan Guar, discussing the merits and shortcomings of the listed games while forecasting potential shifts in rankings with the upcoming release of Donkey Kong Bonanza.

1. Introduction to the Topic

Blessing Adeoye kicks off the discussion with palpable excitement about Nintendo's vibrant ecosystem, particularly highlighting the anticipation surrounding the launch of Donkey Kong Bonanza. The hosts express enthusiasm over the community's engagement with Donkey Kong weeks and set the stage for an in-depth analysis of Nintendo’s 3D platformers.

Blessing Adeoye [00:47]:
"Oh, feels good. There's Nintendo in the air."

2. Overview of IGN's Ranking List

The conversation shifts to IGN’s list of every Nintendo 3D platformer ranked. Tim Gettys opens the article during the podcast, noting that IGN has included 11 entries, sparking a debate among the hosts about potential omissions and the criteria for inclusion.

Tim Gettys [07:25]:
"Every Nintendo 3D platformer ranked is written by Ryan Guar. Went up July 7th as last week."

3. Defining Nintendo 3D Platformers

The hosts grapple with defining what constitutes a Nintendo 3D platformer. They consider whether titles like Banjo-Kazooie or Kirby and the Forgotten Land qualify, debating the inclusion of third-party titles and the distinction between platformers and puzzle games.

Blessing Adeoye [07:23]:
"Because what's interesting about this is what qualifies as a Nintendo 3D platformer."

4. Detailed Discussion of Ranked Games

a. Mario Series:

• Super Mario Odyssey emerges as a frontrunner, praised for its expansive worlds and innovative gameplay mechanics.

Tim Gettys [19:28]:
"Odyssey, I think, is an example of a game that has a lot of highs and very few of those lows."

• Super Mario Galaxy 1 & 2 receive high acclaim for their creativity and orchestral soundtracks, though some criticism is leveled at the motion controls as gimmicky.

Blessing Adeoye [19:02]:
"Flood as a mechanic is actually fun. And we do see some of those mechanics live on in games like Odyssey."

• Super Mario Sunshine is scrutinized for its reliance on the flood system, which some players find frustrating despite its innovative design.

Blessing Adeoye [19:28]:
"Sunshine, the entire game is the gimmick. The entire flood system is the gimmick."

• Super Mario 3D World is discussed with mixed feelings, appreciated for its multiplayer experience but considered by some as not reaching the heights of other titles.

Tim Gettys [34:02]:
"I really enjoyed this experience. This is one that I..."

b. Donkey Kong Series:

• Donkey Kong 64 is controversially placed at the bottom of IGN's list. The hosts express strong disagreement with its ranking, highlighting its expansive gameplay and nostalgic value despite its flaws.

Blessing Adeoye [31:50]:
"At number 11, we got Don Kong 64. You fucking bastards."

Tim Gettys [31:50]:
"I hope DK Bonanza fucks Mario Odyssey. I hope that game is so fucking good..."

• There is anticipation that the release of Donkey Kong Bonanza could elevate DK’s standing in future rankings.

Blessing Adeoye [59:43]:
"Having said that, it is... There's still a lot of things I have a lot of questions about this game because..."

c. Kirby and Other Titles:

• Kirby and the Forgotten Land is acknowledged for its unique approach but debated whether it fits strictly within the 3D platformer genre.

Barrett Courtney [37:32]:
"I feel like Kirby's way better than that."

• Discussions also touch upon Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker and Wario World, with some arguing they don't fit the traditional 3D platformer mold.

5. Critique of IGN’s Ranking Approach

The hosts critique IGN’s methodology, particularly the exclusion of certain titles and the placement of DK64 at the bottom. They argue that nostalgia and the scope of gameplay should be more heavily weighted in evaluations.

Tim Gettys [58:12]:
"That is so funny."

Blessing Adeoye [58:13]:
"Yeah. The fact that they have both galaxies that high, I can't be mad at it. I respect it."

6. Predictions and Future Outlook

Looking ahead, the hosts speculate on how Donkey Kong Bonanza might influence future rankings, hoping it will propel DK64 to a more deserving position. They also express interest in how upcoming titles will shape the landscape of Nintendo's 3D platformers.

Barrett Courtney [59:17]:
"I can only hope."

Tim Gettys [59:40]:
"It's Odyssey team, dude. Like I. I am never going to doubt them."

7. Additional Insights and Community Engagement

Throughout the episode, the hosts engage with viewer comments and super chats, addressing questions about game rankings and sharing personal anecdotes related to the games discussed. They emphasize the importance of community input in shaping their discussions.

Blessing Adeoye [63:04]:
"We're not going to answer that today, but that is an interesting question."

Tim Gettys [62:20]:
"Ladies, gentlemen and bees, let us know in the comments below. What is your favorite Nintendo 3D platformer?"

8. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with the hosts reiterating their passion for Nintendo’s diverse 3D platformer lineup and expressing eagerness for future releases that could redefine the genre. They encourage listeners to engage with them on various platforms and support the podcast through memberships for an enhanced experience.

Tim Gettys [63:10]:
"Until next time, it's been our pleasure to serve you."

Notable Quotes:

• Blessing Adeoye [07:23]:
  "Because what's interesting about this is what qualifies as a Nintendo 3D platformer."

• Tim Gettys [19:28]:
  "Odyssey, I think, is an example of a game that has a lot of highs and very few of those lows."

• Blessing Adeoye [19:02]:
  "Flood as a mechanic is actually fun. And we do see some of those mechanics live on in games like Odyssey."

• Blessing Adeoye [31:50]:
  "At number 11, we got Don Kong 64. You fucking bastards."

• Tim Gettys [31:50]:
  "I hope DK Bonanza fucks Mario Odyssey. I hope that game is so fucking good..."

• Tim Gettys [58:12]:
  "That is so funny."

• Blessing Adeoye [58:13]:
  "Yeah. The fact that they have both galaxies that high, I can't be mad at it. I respect it."

• Barrett Courtney [59:17]:
  "I can only hope."

• Blessing Adeoye [63:04]:
  "We're not going to answer that today, but that is an interesting question."

• Tim Gettys [62:20]:
  "Ladies, gentlemen and bees, let us know in the comments below. What is your favorite Nintendo 3D platformer?"

This episode offers a comprehensive and engaging analysis of Nintendo's 3D platformer landscape, blending critical evaluation with passionate discourse and community interaction. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to these titles, the Kinda Funny Gamescast provides valuable insights into the evolving hierarchy of Nintendo's beloved platformers.