Brody R Thompson, Author at Hard Drive

The 40 Most Underrated Moments in Gaming History

Posted on June 22, 2023 by Mark Roebuck

Gaming is filled with legendary performances and milestones, but the sad truth is that the medium is so vast that many of its most noteworthy achievements, both good and bad, have been largely forgotten over the years. Here are 40 Underrated Moments in Gaming History.

July 14, 1993

Nintendo releases Super Mario Bros. 3 for the very last time.

April 14, 2018

After guitarist Slash takes a rogue shoe to the face, local gamer Fraser Quinn, armed only with his experience playing Guitar Hero II volunteers to assist Guns N Roses and finish the show as their lead guitarist. He’s beaten within an inch of his life by security, but gamers have long been inspired by his determination.

October 18, 1998

Determined to get through as much of the original Gran Turismo as he could in its three day rental window, seventh grader Darren Thompson forgoes all sleep, food, and water for 72 consecutive hours. Although celebrated at the time, Thompson’s untimely death two days later tends to overshadow this remarkable gaming achievement.

January 7, 1991

Jared Rice successfully completes a perfect game of the obscure Baby Pac-Man using only his face.

July 29, 2013

Programmer Neve Webster works the longest recorded workweek in video game history, putting in 129 hours on Grand Theft Auto V to make sure all the tits looked okay. An official ceremony is planned to commemorate the achievement, but after a sleep deprived Webster asks representatives of Guinness World Records if they are denizens of the Sleep World that have come for her flesh, the presentation is quickly scrapped.

April 24, 2006

No one believes me, but I watched my little brother get sucked into this game in 2006. I still play it once in a while to visit him. He’s doing okay. He found a wife in there!

June 22, 2003

Joseph Holmes, 86, asks his family to leave his hospital room so that he may spend his final moments playing Harvest Moon 2 for the Game Boy Color.

August 4, 2008

Roger Ebert briefly reverses his ‘Video Games can’t be art’ stance after spending a few hours with X-Men Legends 2 on the Nintendo GameCube. “Alright,” he says. “This one’s pretty tight.”

July 20, 2021

Local fisherman Mark Joyce catches a mint condition copy of The Legend of Zelda in Lake Superior, sealed in waterproof casing. Unaware of it’s potential five figure selling price, he throws it back. “I was trying to catch trout,” he says later. “Not Zelda games.”

October 1, 1988

Jackal is released for consoles. The game has the unique distinction of being the first ever to inspire a real life adaptation – being the eventual basis for the first Gulf War several years later. The war would receive a sequel, while sadly the game would not.

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Genshin Impact Switch Release: Is it Coming to Nintendo eShop?

Posted on June 22, 2023 by Aakash Regmi

Genshin Impact owes a slice of its modest multi-billion dollar success to the Nintendo Switch, as the game took heavy inspiration from Nintendo’s universally acclaimed The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. It’d be a shame if an apprentice of Genshin Impact’s caliber doesn’t get to shelf itself alongside the ingenuity it draws from.

Luckily, a Switch port is in the works for Genshin Impact. But as the third anniversary of the game approaches, we’ve so far had not even a single hint of the only announced Switch version of Genshin Impact. So where is it, and when is it coming, if ever?

Genshin Impact Nintendo Switch First Announcement

First announced in a trailer back in January 2020—that’s before the game was even released—the developers confirmed that the game is going to be made available on Nintendo Switch. The game then went on to release for PlayStation 4 & 5, PC, and both Android and iOS.

The developers, HoYoverse, even released another similar-ish gacha game, Honkai: Star Rail, which is available for PC and mobile. Surprisingly, Honkai’s PS5 release has a more definite date of Q4 2023, despite being announced much later than a Switch release for Genshin Impact.

Ever since the initial trailer announcement, we haven’t had much intel nor leaks, or even a look at how Genshin Impact will square up with Nintendo’s 2017 handheld. Some even speculated that it’ll eventually land on the rumored next-gen Switch version that nobody is certain of.

Is the Switch Version Cancelled?

As uncertainty continued to harvest among the community, desperate for any sort of information, developers on multiple occasions confirmed it wasn’t canceled. In a statement provided by the developers to GoNintendo, they said, “The Switch version is still in development, and we will release more information as we progress further along.”

The developers have since always maintained the stance that the port is under development and more details will be shared when they’re gearing up for a release.

When is Genshin Impact releasing on Nintendo Switch?

Someday. Although we’re not quite sure when. One thing we can guarantee, the game is not available on Switch as of June 22, 2023. We just checked.

It could be just randomly announced tomorrow, or in the next developer live stream, or even an upcoming Nintendo Direct, but we will be sure to update you whenever it is. The optimism is that it could release around the game’s third anniversary, which is in September 2023.

Meanwhile, check out our guides on games like Tears of the Kingdom for guides on a game to play while you wait for Genshin Impact’s Switch release.

Final Fantasy 16 Photo Mode Guide: How to Use it in FF16

Posted on June 22, 2023 by Billy Givens

Final Fantasy 16 isn’t just overflowing with intense battles with deadly monsters – it’s also sporting arguably the franchise’s most visually-impressive world. With lush green landscapes, awe-inspiring structures in the distance, and intriguing interiors filled with an unbelievable amount of detail, this is a game that is begging for you to take some pictures. Because of this, a photo mode seems like a necessity, don’t you think?

Does Final Fantasy 16 Have A Photo Mode?

If you’re wondering if FF16 has a photo mode, the answer is yes. However, it’s unusually easy to miss, so you shouldn’t feel bad if you’ve totally overlooked this feature. You can only access it by entering your Attributes tab in the menu and looking at the bottom-left corner. Here, you’ll see that you can press in the touchpad to activate photo mode.

Strangely, this prompt disappears entirely when moving to any other page in the menu, making it extremely likely that a large portion of players will overlook the photo mode entirely. Either way, once you’ve accessed the mode, you’ll have the normal suite of features you’ve come to expect from photo modes these days, including the ability to hide the UI so you can take some gorgeous shots of Final Fantasy 16’s breathtaking world.

That’s how to use photo mode in Final Fantasy 16! Use this to take gorgeous pictures of all the places you go and people you meet. And while you’re here, check out the answer to every new game’s burning question: can you pet the dog in FF16?

Final Fantasy 16 Torgal Guide: How to Pet the Dog in FF16

Posted on June 22, 2023 by Billy Givens

If there’s one thing everyone wants to know when booting up a new game like Final Fantasy 16 these days, it’s whether or not you can pet the dog. We all love interacting with dogs, cats, and other furry pals in our games, so it’s a pretty reasonable question to ask. In the case of FF16, not only does your companion Torgal venture the world with you and assist you in battle, but he also lets you pet him nearly any time you’d like.

How to Pet Torgal in Final Fantasy 16

Torgal can be a rather useful ally to have in battles, as he can dish out some extra damage and even offer a little bit of healing to aid Clive in staying alive. But when you’re not battling massive monsters, he’s still happy to be by your side. You can show him how appreciative you are to have his companionship by giving a pat on the head or a quick bit of play.

To pet Torgal, approach him while not in combat and hold down the X button. Doing so will trigger one of a few different interactions that will remind this trust pal that he’s simply the bestest boy around. After petting him five times, you’ll even get a trophy aptly titled “You Can Pet the Dog.”

That’s how to pet the dog in Final Fantasy 16! Enjoy rewarding the best boy with all of the pets he deserves. While you’re here, check out everything we know about a possible Final Fantasy 16 PC release.

Final Fantasy 16 Pre-Order Bonus: How to Claim Braveheart FF16

Posted on June 22, 2023 by Parker Johnson

Looking to claim your pre-order bonus in Final Fantasy 16, Braveheart? This powerful weapon is a great early boon in your travels through the world of Valisthea. In addition, you can also claim the Scholar’s Spectacles and Cait Sith Charm, which give you more EXP & Gil, respectively.

These early game bonus items are a great help to Clive’s equipment loadout, and can even help with grinding if you find it necessary. But, after pre-ordering the game and loading it up for the first time, how do you collect this equipment? Here’s how to get your pre-order bonus, Braveheart, in FF16.

How Do I Get the Final Fantasy 16 Pre-Order Bonus?

To claim your Braveheart longsword in FF16, first, you’re going to want to pause the game using the Start/Options button. Navigate over to the System menu by pressing R2. Once you’re there, press R1 until you find the menu that says “redeemable items.” Once you’ve claimed it, navigate over to the Gear & Eikons menu and equip your new blade!

Obviously, none of these steps matter if you haven’t pre-ordered the game. Without a pre-order, the weapon & accessories are unobtainable through these means, and it doesn’t seem like it’s currently available to purchase separately. You’ll come across plenty of other great weapons throughout your travels, though!

If you still can’t find your pre-order bonus items, go to the PlayStation menu and press the Start/Options button on the home menu while highlighting Final Fantasy 16. Ensure that your add-ons are all installed onto your console. You’ll know that they’re in correct condition by seeing the word “usable” on the right of each item listed.

That’s all you need to know to collect the pre-order bonus, including Braveheart, in Final Fantasy 16! While you’re here, check out what we know about the FF16 PC release on Steam.

Everything We’re Blaming on the Woke Mind Virus This Week

Posted on June 21, 2023 by Mark Roebuck

Hey Gamers. Boy howdy, it sure can be difficult keeping up with all the ways the woke mind virus has turned our once vibrant society into a rotting cesspool. Here’s a roundup of examples I spotted this week!

Lost My Car Keys

I’m so fixated on my anger that Chick-Fil-A hired an executive in charge of diversity, equity, and inclusion that I can’t find my keys and now I’m gonna be late for work. Thanks a lot, liberals! I would get really reamed out if I hadn’t inherited this business from my father.

Sports Results

Whichever team ends up winning the championship in Major League Baseball this year, it will almost certainly reak of wokeness. A damn shame to see what America’s pastime has been reduced to.

Rainbow I Saw

Suck my dick, NASA

Can’t Stop Coughing

May be a regular virus, rather than woke mind virus but still (NOT COVID)

(Gay) Son Flipped My Car

I thought gay people weren’t going to cause me any problems?? I think an upside car in my driveway is a major problem.

The Red Hot Chili Peppers Haven’t Put Out a Good Album in Ten Years

This obnoxious “PC Culture” that has plagued America for the last five years has resulted in the California rock band The Red Hot Chili Peppers not putting out a decent album in the last decade.

My Neighbor Is Black

Of course our block had to go woke and reboot my white neighbor Mr. Peabody into a black man “Doctor Freely”

Man on Other Side of Glory Hole Turned Out to Be Gay

I miss the good ole days when men were men and I could suck an anonymous STRAIGHT guy’s cock

Didn’t Like Movie I Saw

Just didn’t think the plot was very realistic, to be honest

Favorite Conservative Organizations Ruined

I literally couldn’t believe the news when I saw it, but yep, the LGBTQ+ Organization For Queer People Of Color And Other Marginalized Groups has gone woke

Couldn’t Find New Tucker Show

Don’t even tell me I don’t have enough AOL hours ‘cause I know I have enough AOL hours!

Gay Soda

My soda had the gay stuff on it! Like I’m really gonna drink this shit now. What terrifies me is that I took a few sips before I realized it. Then I thought Wes smelled really good yesterday. I’ve never been more scared in my life.

Every Person I Come Into Contact With Thinks I’m Way Too Intense All the Time

And next to none of them are willing to debate me!

Rhett and Link Try Every Stage of Grief in Somber New Video

Posted on June 21, 2023 by Cameron Snow

BURBANK, Calif. — In a shocking departure from their usual food-related antics, YouTube sensations Charles ‘Link’ Neal III and Rhett McLaughlin delved into the intricate depths of human emotion by trying and reviewing every stage of grief.

“After a decade of tasting various tacos and snacks, we realized there was some uncharted territory we’ve yet to explore: the depths of human anguish,” remarked Link. “You’ve seen us devour thousands of fruit snacks, but now you get to see us weep like we’ve never wept before. Our summer intern, Josh, has selflessly volunteered himself for today’s episode, so that we can definitely rank EVERY stage of the grieving process.”

“We’ll really miss him,” he added.

After partaking in the ceremonial sacrifice of Josh, the duo, fueled purely by childlike curiosity, proceeded to review their emotions.

“I don’t know about you, Link, but I must say, I find Popeye’s chicken sandwich to be far more palatable than the immeasurable depression and denial I’m drowning in right now!” remarked Rhett. “This just frickin’ pales in comparison, dude. I definitely do not recommend.”

“Hold on, Rhett, it grows on you,” retorted Link, covered in the blood of his former co-worker. “Just wait until you reach the acceptance phase — I got there almost immediately. Once you come to terms that Josh is gone, you enter this serene state of peace, which I can confidently say is equally as delicious as Arby’s fries on a good day.”

Many long-time fans seemed to appreciate the video’s bold new direction.

“It’s a breath of fresh air to see them trying new things,” read one YouTube comment. “Sure, maybe it was a little rough around the edges, but I’m sure they’ll be able to iron out all the wrinkles as they milk this new format for the next quarter century. ”

As of press time, reports have emerged that Rhett and Link have hired 500 new summer interns.

Complimentary Nose Plugs Handed Out at Comic Con

Posted on June 21, 2023 by Adam Frost-Venrick

SAN DIEGO — In a health-conscious move, attendees at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con will be given complimentary nose plugs to block any and all offensive odors that might be encountered at the festival.

“In the past, we put up signs saying that guests must adhere to minimal standards of grooming, but at a certain point, there’s really only so much you can do,” said Event Coordinator Thomas Lockley. “Distributing nose plugs is the same thing as handing out masks because of COVID. Some people will go kicking and screaming against it, they’ll get indignant, clutch their pearls and talk about their freedom, but ultimately, we have to keep in mind that some people just have weak immune systems that aren’t built for Comic-Con smell. Also it’s optional.”

This year’s San Diego Comic-Con will feature screenings of Blade Runner and The Thing, guest speakers like Pierce Brown and J. Scott Campbell, and smells like Cool Ranch and Axe body spray.

“Ultimately, we just want to make sure everyone has a good time,” said publicist Olivia Cortland. “And we don’t pass any judgment on the guests’ hygiene… but there’s a reason Shatner stopped coming to these things and it wasn’t because anyone thought his music sucked.”

At press time, the nose plugs were being placed in small, pre-prepared gift bags, which will also feature lengthy apology letters from author George R.R. Martin for having not finished The Winds of Winter yet.

Parents: Do Not Let Your Children Google Elephant Mario

Posted on June 21, 2023 by Ryan Fleishman

When normal, well-socialized humans saw Mario transform into an elephant they probably chuckled. Some may say “awww,” finding the trunk-wielding Italian cute and cuddly. But I reacted with horror, for I know the internet.

I first learned of Elephant Mario while reading a Direct recap in bed (as a true gamer, I naturally do not wake up before 2 PM). Aghast, I open up Twitter and search “Elephant Mario,” and the first result was this choice image:

Here we have a portrait of Elephant Mario with visible nips and a belly so massive he cannot possibly fit through pipes anymore. I don’t believe anyone even drew this: Elephant Mario fetish art manifested from the collective consciousness the second Nintendo announced him.

Parents, DO NOT, under ANY circumstances, let your children look up Elephant Mario. They will find their childhood hero Mario put in compromised positions, and you will need to explain things you barely even understand.

You see, Elephant Mario is a gateway. Sure, this art may not be immediately apparent as a sex thing to the unindoctrinated. But little Timmy just found a fetish account, and they’re two clicks away from a bulge the size of Thomas the Tank Engine.

It’s not just Twitter, either, take a gander at these Google results. At the end of the fourth row, we have a suspiciously tubby Elephant Mario. Where’s he coming from? Good ol’ Furaffinity.

What did you just do, Nintendo? I know your company is run by dinosaurs, but somebody along the grapevine MUST have realized that people will misuse the Elephant. Elephant Mario just opened the Mario Universe to the locusts, and they will not stop at Mario. Just like Bowsette inspired female renditions of everyone Mario-adjacent, Elephant Mario will inevitably lead the way to Elephant Peach, or Elephant Toad. Hell, you might even find an Elephant Bowsette.

Gird your loins and lock your doors, because Elephant Mario art is coming the artists are cumming. Just pray Nintendo doesn’t release Tentacle Mario next.

Mom Enters Competitive ‘Thank You’ Card Game Tournament

Posted on June 21, 2023 by Kyle Duggan

GLENDALE, Ariz. — Local mother and competitive thank you card player Margery Walsh has officially entered the Glendale GratitudeFest Championship, tournament sources have confirmed.

“I remember being a little kid and thinking it was normal to have all these boxes of thank you cards stacked up in the basement,” said 17-year-old Alex, Walsh’s son. “I thought everyone’s mom bought more thank you cards than anyone could possibly use in a lifetime! How could I have understood that she was one of the top players in the entire state? It’s just one of those things that doesn’t occur to you when you’re five.”

Walsh was humble about her status in the community, saying that the game was just a pleasant way to pass the time.

“My favorite thing about it is that it lets me stay in touch with my friends,” said Walsh, who was prepping for the tournament by sorting her cards by color and font. “We get together at these tourneys and cons and just talk strategy, you know? I can really connect with these ladies in a way that no one else in my life would understand. That means more to me than trying to win. Of course, if Lorraine tries that weak-ass Shoebox deck again, I’m going to mop the floor with her. You can’t cheap out on this shit.”

Dan, Walsh’s husband of twenty years, said that he supports his wife’s passion even if he doesn’t fully understand it.

“I try to stay out of her way,” said Dan. “We both have our own hobbies. She builds thank you decks; I speedrun the route to the airport. I actually just worked out a theoretical 37-minute run that skips Post Road entirely. It’s very starting-seed dependent, because you have to hit the lights on Broad Street perfectly, but it’s really just a matter of putting in the hours. I’m going to start testing it while Marge is at her card game this weekend.”

At press time, Walsh was seen taking a trip to Kohl’s to stock up for the tournament’s traditional group box break.