Whatcha been playing this week, Destructoid?

The Crystal Heart

Howdy buckeroos, and welcome to Whatcha Been Playing? It’s been something of a week, to say the least, the latest in an admittedly ongoing slew of stressful times. I’m not a pandemic expert. I’m not an expert on global politics. Some people would argue I’m not an expert on video games (Wrong People). But I am an expert on feeling anxious. Practically award-winning, in fact. As such, I also understand that many of you may be feeling the immense strain of the past weeks, months, years. I know I am.

I’m not trynna be a downer here, but I don’t want to ignore these facts, and I wanted to let you know that it’s understandable to feel frustrated, helpless, angry, exhausted, and even scared at the strange days we’ve faced these past few years. It’s been wild, and relentless. But I believe in the future, I believe in youth, and I do, genuinely, believe that things are going to get better.

Until those sunnier days appear, just keep being you, because that’s the person we love. Be kind to those around you and to yourself. Stay educated, but not obsessed. Find the small joys wherever they may be and do not feel guilty for partaking in them. There is a lot of emotional improvisation going on right now, in very unprecedented times, so nobody is holding it against you for just trying to deal with the current climate and its strife as best as you are able.

Know that you are not alone in your thoughts, and that you are always among friends here. You’re doing fine.

Ford Every Stream

This week has seen me bouncing between a few titles, some for Destructoid, some for myself, and some purely for deserved escapism. One major achievement saw me reach the summit of Celeste mountain, bringing to an end hours upon hours of controller-squeezing, tongue-biting, skin-of-the-teeth play sessions. Well, I say “bringing to an end”, I am intending on delving into the notorious “B-Sides” and “C-Sides”, as well as completing DLC chapter “Farewell”. But, at least in a literal sense, Celeste mountain has been conquered, strawberry pie has been baked, and I am hoping to become one with myself.

Go me.

Elden Win

But anyway, it’s time for you to face your own digital challenges. This is Whatcha Been Playing? and we all want to know whatcha been playing, are playing, or are about to start playing. This week, it feels like something of a foregone conclusion, as I’m sure many of you will be digging into The Lands Between of Elden Ring. But some of you will not be interested, nor partaking in FromSoft’s latest. That’s why Baskin & Robbins has 31 flavors. Whatever you’re playing — old or new, 10/10 or 3/10 — be sure to jump into the comments below and share with us. I’m sure we’d all appreciate the happy chatter today.

Have a safe and restful weekend, from all of us at Destructoid.