Cucco Attack LET'S PLAY [First Hour] - Link's Awakening

After a bit of a hiatus, Cucco Attack is back, this episode exploring the first hour of the adorable re-imagined world of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for the Nintendo Switch.  If interested in taking an in-depth look at this charming and faithful adaptation of the Game Boy classic, check out this preview and judge for yourself if this game merits its rupees.  Light commentary is included, but I mostly try to let the game speak for itself.

If you have any other suggestions for games you'd like to see played per this segment, let me know in the comments below.  Otherwise, enjoy and happy gaming!

Quick Reviews

We live in an age of grotesque gaming backlogs and just not enough conceivable time to play through them all.  And because of such, there are many a game that get dropped so very quickly from conversation to keep current and afloat the ever continuing out-pour of new releases.  Likewise, I am always playing catch-up to a slew of games and finding the relevant time to share such thoughts and impressions.  Should the time present itself in the future, some of these quick reviews may be expanded upon for greater detail and breakdown of the many pros and cons.  Until that time though, from A-Z here are some 20+ quick takes that will hopefully provide some worthy insight to your valued time.

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(Played on Nintendo Switch) - Ape Out stands out with an incredibly distinct art style and frantic, chaotic gameplay that is emphasized all the better with its pairing of frenzied drums and cymbal crashes perfectly in tune and timed with your actions.  The procedural generated nature of the levels keeps every attempted escape an engaging and suspenseful affair.  With its graphic blood splatters and rather intense gameplay, it is a bit unsettling and not recommended for those not keen of overly violent imagery.  But it does perfectly capture the essence of what an escaped ape must be feeling through each of these scenarios and has a surprisingly striking ending for what is a generally simple narrative to be told.

Year in Review - Top 5 Games of the Year (2019)

The year 2019 has just about come and gone, and so has come the time once again to look back and shine the light upon another year of notably exceptional games.  So if you're curious as to hidden highlights that may have been missed in the busy bustle of the year, or are just feeling particularly nostalgic, read on as we take note of my personal Top 5 Games of 2019, among other recognition to be had.  Please note for this first category, there is only so much time and/or funds to be diverged among the slew of great games that are continually released.  As such, the games selected in this category only include games in which I've played to full / majority of completion, and saw their debut release in 2019.

Top 5 Games of the Year - 2019

-1- Luigi's Mansion 3

Luigi's Mansion 3 surprised many a player with what exceptional craft and care was poured into this game to create one of the most memorable and creative ghost-busting adventures of the year.  The art direction and animation continues to raise the bar with this latest installment in the series, making me quite excited at the potential of the new Super Mario movie to be made if it's anything of this caliber.  Each floor of this haunted hotel that you explore is full of such clever ideas and themes that continually keep the player engaged, even if it does follow the more slightly linear structure of Dark Moon.  And this game features some of the most ingenious and imaginative boss battles found in most any game to recent memory.  So if you have the itch for a humorous, fun fulfilling single player adventure, pack your bags and check in to the wickedly impressive Luigi's Mansion 3.

Video Game Music for the Holidays - Volume VII

Good tidings to all ye good folks and fellow gaming enthusiasts!  The holiday hustle and bustle is once again amongst us, and with it comes the slew of jolly jingles.  If you come searching for a brief reprieve from these time-old tunes, I offer a unique compilation of video game music that still fit the vibes and mood of the holidays.  As is yearly tradition among my friends and family 7 years now, I hope these musical collections provide some welcome variety while also elevating an awareness and appreciation for the medium of games.

Happy Thanksgiving - Top 5 Thankless Mechanics in Games

It's that time of year again - A time for gratuitous amounts of consumption and deep sleep inducing food comas.  But in this time of excessive compulsions, let's not forget to give thanks for the many gifts and joys found in our lives.  This Thanksgiving, I want to particularly highlight useless mechanics found in games that deserve more thanks and acknowledgement.  To better define this, I am referring to actions players can perform in a game, but serve no effect or direct purpose on the gameplay.  So why have them in the game at all then?  Their value is measured instead in how they can help amuse and immerse players into the experience, and quite often makes the games all the more better for it.  These are my Top 5 Thankless Mechanics in Games:

-1- Character Chat (Luigi's Mansion series)

Whether its exchanging quips between heroes in Hearthstone or demanding extra resources in Age of Empires, character chats in games have provided a wealth of amusement and memorable lines to be enjoyed.  And the fact that the players can prompt this banter at their whim makes for all the more chaotic merriment to be had.  Of these player-driven character calls, one of the most perhaps iconic in my books is none other than the endearing, stuttering cry for "M-M-M-Mario" found in the Luigi's Mansion series.  At any given moment during your ghost-filled expedition, players can press a designated button solely for the purpose of calling out for your beloved brother.  And depending on the mood of the room and if ghosts are still lurking about or not, this bit of dialogue varies in degrees of confidence and fear.  It's the perfect marriage of comedy and thematic aid to storytelling that makes this one of my most cherished useless game mechanics.

Tabletop Tuesday - Betrayal Legacy Impressions

After a bit of a hiatus, Hughes3D returns!  And with it, a new tabletop game to discuss for a Tabletop Tuesday - Your exploration into games of dice, cards, luck and more of the Tabletop world.

This week's game...the game of haunted incantations that looms across generations that is Betrayal Legacy.

Players: 3-5

Time: 90-120 minutes

Genre: Asymmetric Cooperative / Legacy Role-Playing Game

Fire Emblem Apes: Kongquest

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Not my typical comic format this week, but I had to put this pun to paper once it crept into my brain...only now I really want a weird crossover like this.

Super Mario Maker 2 Review

Genre: 2D-Platformer / Creator Game
Players: 1-4
Playtime: 40 Hours (Includes clearing 100% of the Story Mode, trying out each of the various Endless Challenge and Multiplayer course modes, and spending a good deal of time creating / uploading my own levels; See end of review for codes to try out my uploaded levels)


With the massive success that was Super Mario Maker for the Wii-U, its continuation and move to the Nintendo Switch seemed all but inevitable.  What did come as surprise to many though was such was not to be a simple port, but rather a full-fledged sequel.  The game introduces a sleuth of new mechanics, story mode missions, multiplayer and more, but are these shiny new features enough to warrant the title of sequel at the sacrifice of other components?  Let's put on our hard hats and deconstruct the positive and negative building blocks that compose this creative construction zone.

Cucco Attack LET'S PLAY [First Hour] - Wandersong

On this episode of Cucco Attack's LET'S PLAY, we gallivant about the first hour of the colorful and musical adventure that is Wandersong.  If interested in taking an in-depth look at a platformer / narrative game that is full of the wittiest of writing that is sure to tug at your heartstrings, I heartily encourage you then to give this preview a watch.  Light commentary is included, but I try to let the game's delightful tone speak for itself for the most part.

For more thoughts and detailed breakdown of this game, check out my full review here.  If you have any other suggestions for games you'd like to see played, let me know in the comments below.  Otherwise, enjoy and happy gaming!

Cucco Attack Podcast - Episode IX: SNES to Switch & Indies Hype

Cucco Attack strikes back quickly with another episode, this time getting hyped at the prospects of SNES games coming to Switch and new indies on the horizon with the upcoming Nindies Direct.  As always, be sure to share all feedback, thoughts, and your most anticipated games, SNES or indie otherwise.  Enjoy listening and happy gaming!

Cucco Attack Podcast - Episode VIII: Summer Gaming & Switch Lite Talk

Welcome another episode the Cucco Attack Podcast, this time diving into our many games of summer and talking notable gaming news highlights such as the Switch Lite, Cuphead coming to Netflix, and Joy Con drifting issues.  Be sure to share all feedback, thoughts, and your favorite games of summer in the comments below.  Enjoy listening and as always, happy gaming!

Cucco Attack LET'S PLAY [First Hour] - Hollow Knight

Further expanding Cucco Attack's LET'S PLAY segment, we take an in-depth look at one of my favorite games ever - Hollow Knight.  If interested in learning more about this game and if such seems up your alley, watch here as I play through the first hour of this captivating adventure.  Light commentary is included, but I do my best to let the game's masterful tone speak for itself.

For more detailed thoughts and tips on this indie darling, check out my full review here and many nifty tricks here.  If you have any suggestions for other games you'd like to see played, let me know in the comments below.  Otherwise, happy gaming!

Making the Cut

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Cucco Attack LET'S PLAY - Super Mario Maker 2

-WARNING: The content in the following episode of Cucco Attack contains mild language / profanity.  Parental discretion is advised before viewing.

A new addition to the Cucco Attack podcast, we are introducing Let's Plays, offering live gameplay, commentary, and many a humorous banter to be had.  In this episode, we dive into the many facets of Super Mario Maker 2, as well as some great indies, Ape Out and Baba is You.  Feel free to leave a comment, have a laugh and enjoy listening!  And as always, happy gaming!

A Bitter Pill to Swallow

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For those who've noticed the lack of blog posts as of late, my apologies.  Been busy with life and other events.  But rest assured more posts are still incoming, such as more comics and podcasts, and reviews for games like Super Mario Maker 2 and Astro Bot: Rescue Mission.  So stay tuned, catch up on some old posts you may have missed, get outside and enjoy some of that summer sunshine, and happy gaming!

Cucco Attack Podcast - Episode VII: BOTW SEQUEL, Banjo in Smash & More E3 2019 Highlights

The Cucco Attack Podcast is coming at you again, bringing a wealth of discussion on E3 2019 highlights, including dreams come true with the likes of Banjo-Kazooie joining the fray in Super Smash Bros. and a gripping new look at the next entry in the Zelda series, that being a direct sequel to Breath of the Wild!  As always, all feedback is welcome and incredibly appreciated, so be sure to share your thoughts and own highlights in the comments below.  Otherwise, enjoy listening and reliving some of that E3 hype!

E3 2019 - Top 5 Highlights

E3 2019 has made its splash with a wave of cinematic CG trailers and many fan dreams come to fruition.  And now as this highly rendered crescendo rides back down to a relative calm, we are left in a dazed stupor anxiously awaiting these new experiences and wondering just how we'll make time for the tsunami of games to come.  As can understandably be expected from such a flurry of announcements in such a short time span, it can be easy to miss or overlook quite a few of these many, many games.  So for those who may have been missed some of the spectacle or just want to get swept away again, here are my Top 5 Highlights of E3 2019:

-1- Breath of the Wild Sequel

Some dared to hope that a glimpse of the next installment in the Zelda series might be shown, but even so it seemed like a fantastical dream.  Lucky for us, Nintendo hasn't been resting on their laurels and ended not only their Direct, but really E3 in all on the perfect note with a brief tease at what is to be a direct sequel to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.  And though this trailer is only little more than one minute, it so masterfully sets the tone for a much darker adventure to unfold and leaves plenty food for thought.  What is this mysterious spirit hand that is pinning down this ominous corpse?  Is this corpse Ganon to which the incantation is trying to suppress the release of calamity and malice, or is it doing just the opposite and performing some dark resurrection?  What has called our heroes to explore the supposed catacombs of Hyrule, and just what is happening to the castle come the end of the trailer rising in a bellow of smoke?  Will this spiritual hand play an important role into Link's new abilities in this game as it seems to get absorbed into his hand?  Will Zelda serve a more active role with her new short and sporty hairdo, perhaps as the main protagonist this time or maybe even a cooperative adventure?

There is so much to wonder and consider how this adventure will shape out still, but hopefully the wait won't be too much longer now if they were confident enough to show it off as is now.  We now know it's reusing much of the groundwork as developed in the original which should aid greatly with development time, so with any luck this could be a Holiday 2020 title or else see release in 2021.  Either case, the build-up of gameplay and cinematic trailers leading up to the original Breath of the Wild were some of the best trailers I've ever seen in all of gaming.  So I'm so pumped that they've elected to start doing the same with its sequel here and can't wait to see it develop into what will assuredly be another thrilling, if not very creepy masterpiece once again.

Gotta Catch Em' All

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Smash Ultimate - Top 5 Fighter Pass Predictions (& Honorable Mentions)

With the pending release of the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Fighter Pass and its many still unconfirmed fighters, the community is still in a buzz trying to figure out who these remaining combatants will be.  And with good reason too, as the likes of Piranha Plant (free DLC) and Joker from Persona (the first fighter of this Season Pass) have blown open the doors into a wild world of possibilities.  So while only four spots remain unclaimed, I thought it'd be fun to join in the enthusiastic excitement and try my own hand at predicting the rest of this potential final roster before E3 2019 reveals the next one (or even two) coming combatants.

The red background not only fits the likes of Persona 5's Joker, but also accurately reflects the color backdrop for Player One in Smash multiplayer.  With that attention to detail in mind, I believe the remaining four characters will similarly reflect the remaining player select colors of Blue, Yellow, Green, and Orange.

A few notes before we dive into these predictions: This list is who I feel are most likely to appear based upon certain facts / criteria, not necessarily my personal wish list.  I'll throw in some honorable mentions below these 5 likeliest candidates for my own personal picks that don't look to make the above cut.  Also consider, each character is to be bundled with a stage and various music tracks.  So if a desired character looked to be lacking in one of these areas or have an uninspiring moveset, they didn't make this list.  With that in mind, let the bold predictions begin!

An Audacious Sale

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Cucco Attack Podcast - Episode VI: E3 2019 Hype

The Cucco Attack Podcast strikes back to build the hype and discuss all the expectations / anticipations leading to this year's E3 2019.  As always, all feedback is very much welcome and be sure to share your biggest hopes to be seen in the comments below.  Otherwise, enjoy listening and all aboard the hype train!  Choo choo!

Mario Kart Tour Beta Impressions

Many lucky Android owners who signed up for the beta of the upcoming mobile game that is Mario Kart Tour have been tearing up the raceways this past week.  As one of those fortunate few, I too have gotten plenty of hands-on time with this aspiring mobile take for the series and am here to share some personal impressions with those unable to play at this time.  Those eager to join in, worry not as the game is poised to exit beta and fully release later this summer.  Until then though, strap in and let's drift into some turbo-fueled hot takes:

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Review

Genre: Fighting / Party Game
Players: 1-8
Playtime: 70 hours (Includes 100% clearing World of Light "Adventure" mode, unlocking every character, trying out most every mode, playing some local and online multiplayer, and grooving out to the 900+ songs in sound mode)

(Note -- This review is posted as of the Smash 3.0 update)


The Super Smash Bros. series has grown and changed considerably since its humble beginnings on the N64.  What once began as a simple, arcade-like beat em' up between prestigious Nintendo icons has since amassed into a colossal gathering of the unlikeliest of pairings across the whole game industry.  Though the base gameplay remains much the same, the identity of this series continually changes with each new passing game.  This latest entry of Ultimate touts the motto of "Everyone is here", which sees the return of every character and many a stage across the whole series.  It's difficult to say though if this is a celebration of the series or just an unrelenting determination to push the numbers to unprecedented totals.  Will this all-inclusive approach be able to hold this entry as the ultimate smash experience to be remembered?  Choose your fighter and hop onto the battlefield as we prepare to engage the pros and cons of this most esteemed of fighting / party games.

The First Will Be Last

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Cucco Attack Podcast - Episode V: Super Mario Maker 2 Discussion

After a brief hiatus, Cucco Attack is back to talk all things Super Mario Maker 2 from the recent Nintendo Direct.  Be sure to share any feedback or discuss what you're excited for in this anticipated sequel in the comments below.  And as always, happy gaming!

A Shower of Wealth

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One Month to E3 2019 - Top 5 Anticipations (And More!)

My how the time flies, because wouldn't you know it, E3 2019 is little less than a month away!  And while some publishers such as Sony are opting not to attend this year (an absence that will surely be felt), that doesn't mean there isn't still plenty to be excited for.  So let's take hold of this fervent anticipation and try to apply some considered thought as to what the best may be shown this E3.  These are my personal Top 5 Anticipations for E3 2019:

-1- Retro Studios (Likelihood - 90%)

It's hard to believe that come this E3 will mark what has been 6 years now since Retro's last presence when they debuted Donkey Kong: Tropical Freeze back in 2013.  Either this next project has been very ambitious or there have been several bumps along the road of development that have slowed this down.  With Retro Studios now being handed Metroid Prime 4, it's clear where their focus will now instead lie, but were they far enough in development to release this other project?  A recent tweet from former Nintendo of America president, Reggie Fils-Aime, would hint at yes.  A retirement gift from Retro Studios shows Reggie illustrated next to other iconic Nintendo characters developed by Retro.  However, there is an unidentified hand in the lower-left corner obscured by a conveniently placed Mario statue.  Furthermore, another Twitter conversation between an artist at Retro offers a coy wink at the image, indicating that yes, there is more to be revealed.  Last year there were many a rumor of a Star Fox racing game, in which ROB 64 might fit the profile below.  Or it could be an entirely new IP.  Whatever it may end up being, E3 2019 looks like the perfect time and place for Retro finally ready to show off this tantalizing new project.

See the little hand left of the Mario statue?  Way too strategically placed to be coincidence.  Something is brewing at Retro.

Tabletop Tuesday - Sushi Go!

Welcome to another edition of Tabletop Tuesday - Your exploration into games of dice, cards, luck and more of the Tabletop world.

Serving it up into the colorful arena of drafting games - The game of chopsticks and raw fish that is Sushi Go!

Players: 2-5
Time: 15-20 minutes
Genre: Casual Card Game

Happy Mother's Day!!!

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You may question a mother sending off her 9-year old son in the middle of the night to combat possessed snakes and aliens.  Or call it a mother's complete confidence and love to let him go for it.  At least not in his jammies though.

Happy Mother's Day to one and all.  And remember to give thanks to those who nurtured and believed in you always.

It's Dangerous to go Alone

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Labo, Mario, and Zelda VR Impressions

To much everyone's surprise, Nintendo has jumped into the world of VR and delivered such to the public in the form of their creative cardboard crafts that is Labo.  Constructing a pair of goggles to house your Switch console alongside a wide assortment of other unique peripherals, Labo VR offers a surprisingly effective means in which to dive into this new world of virtual reality.  And to further sway / tempt curious onlookers to jump on board, free updates have been added to the likes of Super Mario Odyssey and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to include new VR modes.  With all that said, everyone's experience and expectations with VR are sure to differ, so are Nintendo's VR offerings worth the investment?  Allow me to share my personal impressions with all of the above and hopefully help you come to such just an answer for yourself.

Labo VR Goggles.

A Tall Surprise

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Tabletop Tuesday - Top 5 Quick & Easy Games

Tabletop games come in all matter of shapes, sizes and varying degrees of complexity.  And sometimes, a quick and simple game is just ticket you're looking for.  Perhaps to warm-up newcomers, bide a few minutes during a brief break or before a much anticipated TV premiere, or even to cool down from a lengthy exertion, small and easy to learn games are worth taking stock in for any game collection.  These are my Top 5 recommendations for just such occasions and games that are easy to pick up, set up, and have a quick go in about 15 minutes or so:

-1- Spot It

Spot It tops this list as a game that undoubtedly exemplifies ease of accessibility in both learning and playing.  The entire notion of the game is searching for matches between cards, of which each card will always contain one and only one match.  Of course this is simpler said than done as the pictures vary in size and arrangement.  It's a super easy game to set up and get into some quick rounds of fervent play.  But what stands this game above the rest is there are also many variations in which to play, each of which are equally easy to learn and still quick to play.  So this is the perfect game to enjoy the likes of quick, but still flavorful fun.  To learn more on Spot It, click here.

An Unnecessarily Wary Hare

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Wandersong Review

Genre: Musical Narrative Adventure
Players: 1
Time: 10 Hours (Includes beating the game, talking to every NPC as much as possible, and many spontaneous outbursts of singing and dancing)


Wandersong has players embark on a musical adventure with the goofiest and most optimistic of bards, determined to prevent the encroaching end of the world.  Through means of just singing and jumping around, this minstrel and game manage to encompass such a wealth of genuine emotion that simply warms the heart in the dearest ways possible.  If this peculiar premise has piqued your interest or you're just looking for a feel-good experience with a rich, engrossing story, I heartily encourage you to read on as we highlight more of the positive and negative notes to be found in this enchanting orchestration.

Tips for Tetris 99 - Surviving the Battle Royale

Switch Online got a most unique exclusive game a while back in the form of Tetris 99 - A battle royale of 1 vs 99 other players duking it out simultaneously via the classic gameplay that is Tetris.  At first glance, this appears to be just your typical game of Tetris, tranquilly sorting falling blocks in zen-like fashion.  That is, until you're suddenly assaulted with a barrage of random blocks from the bottom of your screen.  The game unfortunately does little to inform the players of these new rules / mechanics, so if you're at a loss as to what is happening or looking for an edge to top the ranks and claim victory over the next tourney, here are some tips and tricks to help you on your way.

Someone to Look Up To

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Cucco Attack Podcast - Episode IV: PlayStation "Direct", PAX East & Switch Rumors

On this week's episode of Cucco Attack, we talk about the recent PlayStation State of Play (aka Direct), take a look at some highlights from PAX East, dig into some Nintendo Switch rumors and much more gaming talk.  All feedback is more than welcome, so be sure to leave a comment and enjoy.  And happy gaming!

Tabletop Tuesday - KeyForge Impressions

Welcome to another edition of Tabletop Tuesday - Your exploration into games of dice, cards, luck and more of the Tabletop world.

This week's game...the game of minions to reap and unique decks to seek that is KeyForge.

Players: 2
Time: 45-90 minutes
Genre: Strategy Card Game

An Egging Question

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Cucco Attack Podcast - Episode III: GDC & Nindies Talk

On this week's episode of Cucco Attack, we talk about the potential of game streaming as highlighted at GDC with Google Stadia and Microsoft's X-Cloud, take a look at the recent Nindies Direct, and talk other games.  As always, all feedback is welcome and heartily encouraged.  Enjoy the episode and happy gaming!

Splash Dance

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For the strange, but delightful surprise of Zelda joining forces with Crypt of the NecroDancer, go ahead and dance away Link.





Music arranged by BLAV; To see more 80s remixes and support the artist, check their channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuuy5SqJxQ6myQ00GYEEXew

Nintendo Labo: Variety Kit Review

Genre: Construction / Mini-game Collection / Educational
Players: 1-2*
Playtime: 12 hours (Includes constructing the five main kits, playing each of the various games, discovering what makes each kit tick, experimenting with a few of the extra components / features, and sharing the wonders of cardboard to friends and family)


Playing an assortment of games through means of crafted pieces of cardboard and a couple of joy-cons has got to be one of Nintendo's most outside-the-box ideas in quite some time (pun intended).  But this unusual idea ends up being a wholly unique and refreshing experience that truly shines thanks to the versatile nature of the Switch.  This review specifically takes a look at Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 01: The Variety Kit, which includes the likes of an RC car, fishing rod, house, motor bike, and piano, along with a few other add-ons for each (but you can infer some of the thoughts in this review to Labo in general).  From making the cardboard creations, diving into each of the games, and discovering how all these constructions actually function, there's more to be found here than might meet the eye.  How much longevity and depth do these kits in actuality provide though?  Let's crease the folds of these cutouts and reconstruct the positive and negative pieces of cardboard curiosity that is Labo.

Cucco Attack Podcast - Episode II: More Switch Talk

The Cucco Attack podcast strikes again, highlighting more Switch games overlooked in last week's episode and looking ahead at what's to come for Switch.  Hopefully the audio / video is of better quality in this episode, but all feedback is still very much welcome as we strive to continually improve.

If interested in jumping to particular topics / games, view this in YouTube where timestamps are available in the descriptions to jump around as desired.  I also hope you enjoy the musical additions we've added every 20-30 minutes or so to help break up the podcast and get your gaming groove on.  With that said, enjoy the episode and happy gaming!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

A most happy of St Patrick's Days to all ye folks!  To celebrate and get in the spirit o' green, have a listen to some good fiddlin' from around the world of games and enjoy.

"Clothed in the greens of field, they aspired to find heroic blades and cast down evil.  The elders wished only for the youths to know courage like the hero of legend." ~ The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker

Mario Kart 8

Braid

Golf Story

Splatoon 2

The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker

For more riveting jigs, check out last year's St. Patrick's Day post here.  Feel free to share and comment below with your own favorite Irish melodies and fiddles found in games or just in general.  And have a safe, fun green day!

No Items Fox Only

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Cucco Attack Podcast - Episode I: Two Years of Switch

Welcome a new addition and means of enjoying gaming discussions to the Hughes3D blog - Cucco Attack: A Gaming Podcast!  Co-hosted by friend and coworker, Chad Hembrock, we'll look to discuss past and upcoming games, gaming hardware and news, debate the greats, stream co-op / multiplayer fun and more.  As very much a new playing field for us both, we apologize in advance for the audio and video quality of this first episode.  We've learned a lot since recording, but didn't want this episode to go to waste, so hope you're able to enjoy such still all the same and look forward to improved quality as we move forward.

In this first episode of Cucco Attack, Switch has turned two years old and we discuss some of our highlights in the best games to release for Switch, both first party and indies, during these first two years.

Celebrating Two Years of Switch - Top 5 Games

The Nintendo Switch has become a gaming hardware sensation as it now celebrates two years since entering the market this past Sunday.  Thanks in part to its versatility in games and gamers of all play styles, it seems just about every game is a perfect fit and desired wish-list to be put onto this system.  So whether you've been along for the ride since its launch or are now debating to jump aboard this dreamy hybrid console, let's take a look back at the best of the best this system has offered up.  As is often the selling point of most any console, we'll start by taking a look at the exclusive (or mostly exclusive) titles available only on Switch.  These are my Top 5 recommended Switch Exclusives:


(Updated 12/27/19 - Removed Golf Story in exchange for Luigi's Mansion 3)

(Updated 4/23/19 - Removed PlayDead's Limbo / Inside in exchange for Cuphead)

-1- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Although technically also a bit of a swan song to the Nintendo Wii-U, Breath of the Wild has become synonymous with the launch of the Switch and perhaps one of the greatest launch games to any system ever.  It has redefined and set a new standard for open-world adventure games, allowing unprecedented levels of freedom and creative play that make way for players of many skill levels and play styles to enjoy play each in their own unique way.  Clocking over 100 hours myself in just my first play-through of this game, this is an epic adventure to behold, and the Switch is the perfect means to tackle shrines and explore new horizons whenever and however long the call for adventure beckons.  Simply put, this is a must-have for any Zelda fan, adventure lover, or pretty much any Switch owner.  For a more detailed review of this grand epic, click here.

Refusal to Change

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Kingdom Hearts III Review

Genre: Action RPG
Players: 1
Playtime: 30 hours (Includes beating the game and a fair share of side exploration and mini-games; Played on standard difficulty on PS4)


Fourteen years have passed since the last numbered installment of Kingdom Hearts II in 2005, though the series certainly hasn't stood still during that time, releasing a slew of side entries to fill the gap.  With that however has also come ever rising expectations and increasingly growing loads of convoluted narratives to resolve.  Games with long development periods and frequent delays are often due to unrelenting levels of polish poured into the game or else on the other spectrum, a disjointed vision for the overall game design.  And never has this been more true than for the beautiful mess that is Kingdom Hearts III.  Are the breathtaking aesthetics enough to compensate for the game's narrative and gameplay shortcomings?  Summon your keyblades and get ready to mash "X" as we strike through the hordes of pros and cons in this review.

A Misconstrued Surprise

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Throwback Thursday Update

Welcome to another Throwback Thursday, which for the past 2 years has been your weekly destination for nostalgic looks into my Top 100 games.  Now that we've covered all 100 games on this list, you may be wondering what next lays in store for this particular blog segment.  For starters, our Top 100 list was previously determined for all games released prior to 2017, so some time will be spent reevaluating the list to include games released / played in the past two years.  Also, the act of closely analyzing and writing about each of these games across these many posts has given new perspectives on each game, to which the rankings of some games may be adjusted during this time.  So look forward to an update on such in the near future.

And although not every game necessarily can stand among what is my Top 100 games, there are still plenty of more great, nostalgic games deserving of time and recognition.  So look forward to more throwbacks still, though please understand they won't appear on as frequent a weekly basis.  Adjusting the frequency of these Throwback segments will allow more time to catch up in completing other posts, such as many pending reviews for Kingdom Hearts III, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Astro Bots: Rescue Mission to name a few.  Also look forward to more game recommendations based off genres, consoles, and more, so still be sure to check in and stay tuned for more gaming discussions on a regular basis.

If you have any suggestions for topics you'd like to see in Throwback gaming or other general gaming, be sure to let me know in the comments.  Be sure to check the Throwback Thursday tab and catch up on any previously discussed games you may have missed.  And look forward to a hopefully greater wealth of gaming content to be found still, just with more unexpected timing and joyous surprise.  Thanks.  And happy gaming!

A Wallet Full of Remorse

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Happy Valentine's Day - Top 5 Local Co-Op Games

Be it because love is in the air or it's just plain cold out there, there's nothing quite as alluring as snuggling up on the couch and enjoying some quality game time with someone special in your life.  For those searching for such allusive, but delectable cooperative experiences, allow me to shine a light on a few such games the perfect likes to share together.  These are my Top 5 recommendations for Local Co-Op Gaming:

-1- Snipperclips

If you're looking for a unique puzzle game in which to work together, or often cause mischief and fits of giggles, look no further than Snipperclips for the Nintendo Switch.  This is a delightfully silly and creative game that requires true cooperation and communication to overcome the many variety of obstacles and challenges this game presents.  And as the game only requires a single joy-con controller per player, Switch owners are already equipped and ready to enjoy some two-player co-op fun right out the gate, though there are also 3-4 player modes to be had for those with extra joy-cons.

Celebrating Two Years of Blogging

Where has the time gone, because wouldn't you know it, Hughes3D - A Gaming Blog is hitting its 2nd anniversary today!  In this 2nd year, there have been...

• 21 Tabletop Tuesday posts
• 51 Throwback Thursday posts
• 49 Weekly Comics
• 14 Game Reviews
• 4 Tips & Tricks
• 11 Top Five Lists
• 1 By Design discussion
• 2 Impression Posts
• All for a Grand Total of 153 posts

It has been a continuing pleasure to share these writings and discussions on video games, board games, and more again this second year.  Because Tabletop Tuesday has slowed pace and Throwback Thursday is soon to follow suit with the completion of our Top 100, the volume of posts moving forward will likely not match the same stride of these first two years, but that doesn't mean there isn't still plenty of content to look forward to.  Make sure to keep checking in for Weekly Comics, game reviews, and other various recommendations, throwbacks, and discussions to be had.  And with this change of pace, I hope to also start sharing a look into personal projects of art, animation, game design and more.  With that in mind, if you have any suggestions for this blog moving forward, be sure to let me know in the comments below.  Thanks!  And here's to another year of happy gaming!

Short-Term Memory

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Throwback Thursday - The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker

Welcome to another Throwback Thursday, our weekly look into my Top 100 games and general nostalgia.  And wouldn't you know it, we've finally arrived at what is perhaps my favorite game of all time.  It is by no means a perfect game I will acknowledge, but no game has managed to ignite my imagination and wonder quite as magically as this masterpiece pulled off.  Topping off our esteemed list of games this week: The game of pulling up sunken treasures and calling upon the forces of weather that is The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker.

Released in the US on March 24th, 2003, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker was the much anticipated debut of the Zelda series for the GameCube.  After the series' critically acclaimed jump to 3D on the N64 with Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask, and a demo called Space World showing off the graphical capabilities for this new Nintendo hardware, the world's excitement could not be contained for what next laid in store for this series.  So it was quite a surprise when this next Zelda adventure of The Wind Waker instead featured a bold, cel-shaded art direction with a cartoonish, young Link (we now refer to as Toon Link thanks to the Smash Bros series).  While this caused a heated divide among players at the time, hindsight and time have proven this art direction to have aged flawlessly and to be a timeless work of art.

Recycling

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For those who noticed the absence of last week's comic, sorry about that.  If you'll pardon the pun, time just slipped away last weekend (because this week's comic is about a banana peel...get it?).  Enjoy the comic.  :)

Celeste Review

Genre: 2D-Platformer
Players: 1
Playtime: 5-20 hours (Includes beating the game finding 65% of hidden strawberries with 750+ deaths in 5 hours; Continued trekking the mountain for all 175 normal strawberries, uncovering hidden hearts, and clearing all B-side levels and epilogue for an additional 15 hours; Raised the white flag of surrender at C-side levels and golden strawberry challenges; Played on the Nintendo Switch)


At a passing glance, Celeste may look just another simplistic indie platforming game with minimalist graphics and grueling difficulty.  But there is more than meets the eye as this is a game packed to the brim with so much creativity, finely-tuned craft, and most importantly, a whole lot of heart.  The journey to climb this formidable mountain becomes a shared experience with that of the player and protagonist, growing in skill, determination, and self resolution.  As my personal Game of the Year for 2018, there's no need to hold back for the end of the review to say that I adore this game and would absolutely recommend it to just about anybody with any interest.  For those still uncertain or want to learn more about this curious platformer though, grab your hiking bags and prepare yourself as we ascend through the many positive and negative crevices of this captivating gem.

Throwback Thursday - Super Mario Galaxy (series)

Welcome to another Throwback Thursday, our weekly look into my Top 100 games and general nostalgia, now examining the esteemed Top 10 games I can't recommend higher.  Shooting for the stars this week: The games of interplanetary hopping and alien octopus stomping that are the Super Mario Galaxy series.

Released in the US on November 12th, 2007, Super Mario Galaxy elevated not only the Mario series, but the potential of all platformers to soaring new heights.  As the much anticipated 3D Mario title for the Nintendo Wii, many a player's imagination was ignited as Mario took to the stars quite literally, jumping through many a creative level of spherical rotating designs.  While the game may not be quite as built for sandbox exploration style gameplay as with its previous 3D predecessors, the linear structure of these carefully crafted levels ensured phenomenal pacing and a myriad of clever ideas that never failed to delight and induce a sense of awe and wonder.  I'll never forget the first time I leaped off a planetoid, only to continue flying to the other side underneath.  Or the thrills of fighting Bowser on a spherical planet of lava, making full use of the 360-degree rotation to orchestrate wild encounters of fireballs and chases for victory.

Tabletop Tuesday - Cover Your Assets

Welcome to another edition of Tabletop Tuesday - Your exploration into games of dice, cards, luck and more of the Tabletop world.

Shuffling into the mix of clever card games - The game of stacking cash under the mattress in Cover Your Assets.

Players: 4-6*
Time: 30-60 minutes*
Genre: Casual Card / Family Game

Throwback Thursday - Portal

Welcome to another Throwback Thursday, our weekly look into my Top 100 games and general nostalgia, now examining the esteemed Top 10 games I can't recommend higher.  Turning the world on its head this week: The game of companion cubes and cake ruses that is mind-bender, Portal.

Released on October 10th, 2007, Portal was just a small added-on game to what is one of the greatest deals to be found in gaming, known as the Orange Box, the likes of which included Half-Life 2, it's episodic expansions, Team Fortress 2, and as mentioned above, Portal.  Little did anyone know that this small, experimental first-person puzzle adventure would blow everyone's expectations out of the water in being one of the most innovative and compelling masterpieces to grace the medium of gaming.  Built around the simple concept of a gun that creates two colored portals at any one time to travel between, Portal challenges players to expand their way of thinking and creatively use the laws of physics to solve puzzles and navigate these peculiar testing facilities.

Speed Date

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