Podcast Summary: The Besties – "Astrobot is the New GOTY Frontrunner"

Released on September 13, 2024

Introduction

In this episode of The Besties, hosts Chris Plante, Griffin McElroy, Justin McElroy, and Russ Frushtick delve deep into the latest contender for Game of the Year (GOTY): Astrobot. Combining their expertise and camaraderie, the Besties explore why Astrobot is making waves in the gaming community and assess its standing among contemporary platformers.

Debating Astrobot as the Game of the Year

The episode kicks off with Russ Frushtick passionately declaring, “This is the best platforming video game I have ever played in my entire life” (06:34). Justin McElroy initially expresses skepticism, noting his intention to adopt a "curmudgeon" stance but admits, “I can't even work up a fake” (06:07), highlighting the game's undeniable charm.

Chris Plant emphasizes the rarity of such unanimous praise within the podcast, stating, “You've done it. Okay,” in acknowledgment of Russ's fervor (07:13). This sets the stage for an in-depth discussion on what elevates Astrobot above its peers.

Detailed Gameplay Analysis

Russ provides a comprehensive overview of Astrobot's evolution, tracing its origins from Astro's Playroom on the PS4 to Astro Bot Rescue Mission and finally to its current iteration on the PS5. He remarks, “Astro's Playroom was the PS5 game and that was as close to this as it gets” (07:41), underscoring the game's foundational legacy.

Justin highlights the game’s unadulterated fun factor, free from the trappings of modern microtransactions: “It's just fun because it's fun” (10:11). Chris adds, “There's so much to talk about” (10:05), hinting at the myriad of engaging elements within Astrobot.

A standout feature discussed is the game's innovative scaling mechanic. Justin describes a level where players can “change your size. So you're like 1/100th basically, you're like, mouse scale” (12:24), allowing for dynamic gameplay that feels both fresh and immersive.

Comparisons to Other Platformers

The Besties draw comparisons between Astrobot and iconic platformers like Super Mario Odyssey and Spelunky. Russ acknowledges Super Mario Odyssey's excellence but points out, “All Mario games have those moments where... they're a little bit of a chore” (12:10). In contrast, Astrobot maintains consistent engagement: “Every single level is fucking fun as shit” (12:24).

When Spelunky is mentioned, Russ states, “This is a better Rog-like than this is” (34:15), positioning Astrobot favorably within the genre. Chris further praises the game's design, noting, “Astrobot didn’t invent the jump, but of all the games of platforming games that have come before this... this is the best” (34:16).

Difficulty and Accessibility

Justin raises concerns about the game's difficulty curve: “There's some parts that are like. Would be pretty challenging and frustrating” (18:26). Russ responds by highlighting accessibility features, such as camera control adjustments: “There is a setting that basically removes the need to manipulate the camera” (20:14). This balance ensures Astrobot remains approachable without compromising on challenge.

Justin further elaborates on the game's fair difficulty, stating, “It’s pretty fair” (18:26), while Russ concurs, emphasizing the lack of hindrances like microtransactions that often disrupt gameplay flow.

Connection to PlayStation and Sony Lore

A significant portion of the discussion centers on Astrobot's integration with PlayStation's history and characters. Chris explains, “Astrobot is the named protagonist of this game” (23:25), and the game features cameos from beloved Sony franchises, including nods to Resident Evil and Tomb Raider.

Justin appreciates the marketing finesse, observing, “Astro's Playroom was the first time I ever felt any affinity for PlayStation as a brand” (25:42), while Russ underscores the game's role in celebrating Sony’s diverse intellectual properties: “They have got Kiryu in there” (24:10).

However, Justin offers a nuanced critique, expressing a desire for a more grounded historical aspect: “I want like, I want it to be like some sort of history” (28:23), suggesting that while the game's homage to PlayStation lore is commendable, a deeper narrative could enhance the experience.

Closing Thoughts

As the episode nears its conclusion, Russ reaffirms his stance on Astrobot: “The best platforming video game I've ever played in my entire life” (33:02). The consensus among the Besties is clear—Astrobot stands out not only for its engaging gameplay and innovative mechanics but also for its seamless integration of Sony’s rich gaming heritage.

Justin summarizes, “I couldn't say that [Astrobot]... of all the games of platforming games that have come before this, the Celeste, the Super Mario Threes, you name it, this is the best” (34:16), encapsulating the episode's unanimous endorsement.

Notable Quotes

• Russ Frushtick ([06:34)(#): “This is the best platforming video game I have ever played in my entire life.”

• Justin McElroy (06:07: “I can't even work up a fake.”

• Russ Frushtick (12:24: “Every single level is fucking fun as shit.”

• Chris Plant (34:16: “Astrobot didn’t invent the jump, but of all the games of platforming games that have come before this, the Celeste, the Super Mario Threes, you name it, this is the best.”

Conclusion

In "Astrobot is the New GOTY Frontrunner," The Besties provide a fervent and comprehensive exploration of Astrobot, positioning it as a top-tier platformer that expertly balances nostalgic homage with innovative gameplay. Their collective enthusiasm underscores Astrobot's significant impact within the gaming landscape, making it a strong contender for Game of the Year.