After the pandemic, many people are chomping at the bit to experience the warm, feel-good season of summer 2021. That being said, for many, the effects of quarantine and lockdown are still felt. As a result, many gamers are choosing to enjoy the arrival of summer with a video game or two on their favorite platform. From Super Mario to Uncharted, let's take a quick peek at some of the best games to play during summertime.
Ultimately, just about any game and some nice air conditioning make for a solid afternoon of summer fun. And, with E3 in full swing and exciting summery games on the horizon, there is a lot to be excited about on this front. However, for those after a seasonal fix right now, these five titles - from their design to their aesthetics - truly speak to the time of year.
Super Mario Sunshine
It's easy enough to understand why this game makes the list. Its large, colorful world and use of vibrant and creative platforming make Super Mario Sunshine one of the best video games out there to simulate a wonderful tropical vacation. The Mario franchise always had a strong sense of whimsy in its aesthetics, and nowhere is this more prevalent than Super Mario Sunshine.
A critical success, this GameCube classic is funny, bright and always good for the shot of serotonin that everyone is craving at the moment. While many thought the jetpack-influenced F.L.U.D.D. mechanic came off as gimmicky, Super Mario Sunshine overcame its skeptics, sold over five million copies and made this addition to the franchise a memorable one. Its soundtrack, color palette and platforming do nothing but highlight the best of what the GameCube had to offer.
Overcooked 2
In keeping with the cartoony aesthetics, Team17's chaotic and family-friendly multiplayer game, Overcooked 2, makes sure that anyone sharing a couch is going to have a good time. Playing as a chef, it's the player's duty to create ordered dishes in increasingly more challenging environments. While that may sound like a light premise for an evening of couch co-op, the varied menu items of Overcooked 2 and its puzzle solving elements will elicit a smile from even the least capable real-life cooks.
Available on all major gaming platforms, Overcooked 2 has been praised for its enjoyable-for-all approach to gameplay. Winner of several awards including Best Family Game at the 2018 Game Awards, in addition to the same award at the Game Critic Awards, Overcooked 2 is a welcome addition to any library. After a long day in the sun, this is a great game to play with some friends.
Jackbox Party Packs
If your summer party is seeking more of an adult feel, the Jackbox Party Packs have you covered. A favorite at casual social gatherings (back when those existed) for their wide range of multiplayer modes, any one of these party packs is a shoe-in for a socially distanced good time. Players are also capable of joining a game even if they aren't in the same room, thanks to the Jackbox website. All that's needed is an internet connection, mobile device and somewhere to watch the party leader stream the title.
While it might be tempting to swing into the knowledge-based trivia romps (Trivia Murder Party, Quiplash), art driven games such as Tee K.O. and the more off-the-wall selections such as Monster Seeking Monster are great selections for anyone looking to enjoy a session regardless of where they or their friends might be.
Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection
With the film industry as a whole is in flux, the summer blockbuster may seem like a distant memory. PlayStation owners, however, have a unique option of picking up the mainline Uncharted series, Naughty Dog's darling franchise. With clear influences from Indiana Jones, The Mummy and other action adventure films, Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection takes players throughout the titular character's first three adventures. From cinematic platforming and gunfights to Naughty Dog's signature storytelling, this collection of games is a great analog to the summer blockbuster.
Pokémon Go
Those who are finally able to get back into their communities will find a pleasant surprise in Niantic's once dominant Pokémon mobile app. Not only is Pokémon Go great as an excuse to enjoy a socially distanced walk, but since the height of its popularity, the game has continually added features and Pokémon to the experience. While it's tempting to think of this game as a diet Pokémon title, the raids, new items and updated daily challenges will ensure that anyone returning to the game after a hiatus will find plenty of outdoorsy Pokémon fun.