Stephen Howard
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About Stephen Howard
Stephen Howard is a Gaming Writer based in Oxford, United Kingdom. While studying at Solent University, he grew a love for critical writing, publishing his first work in an academic film journal, The Quint, in 2022.
His first video game was New Super Mario Bros. on the DS, and has been a fan of games since. Outside of gaming, he likes to spend time writing, volunteering, and watching movies.
Industry Focus
Stephen's focus mostly lies with Nintendo franchises. He has a particualr expertise for Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda and Metroid. Outside of Nintendo, he has a partiucalr interest in platformers, including Crash Bandicoot and Banjo-Kazooie.
Favorite Media
Video Games: Super Mario Galaxy 2, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Undertale, Sonic Mania, Hollow Knight
Film: Get Out, City Of God, The Dark Knight, Logan
TV: Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul, The Bear, Doctor Who, Cowboy Bebop
Comics: Watchmen, The Dark Knight Returns, Ultimate Spider-Man, Invincible
Latest

Is Blue Prince Free For PlayStation Plus Subscribers?
Blue Prince looks to be one of the best games of 2025, but many PlayStation players will be wondering if the game will be available on PS Plus.

I Hope Donkey Kong Bananza Doesn't Repeat One Of My Biggest Issues With Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey's abundance of Power Moons causes the main collectible to lose its charm, something I hope to see change in Donkey Kong Bananza.

Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Games Don't Do Enough To Justify Paying For The Upgrade
The high price for Switch 2 edition games fail to justify paying for, even with the multitude of benefits they offer to older Switch titles.

After Hollow Knight: Silksong's 2025 Confirmation, I'm Way More Excited For Xbox Games Showcase
Hollow Knight: Silksong needs another showcase to ramp up anticipation for its release, and Xbox Games Showcase would be the best place to do this.

Mario Kart World Has Already Fulfilled One Of My Biggest Hopes For The Series
Mario Kart World's new Free Roam mode lets me live out my childhood dream of exploring the world around the courses, and I couldn't be more excited.

Nintendo Switch 2 Has Me Worried For The Future Of Physical Games
With Switch 2 games becoming more expensive in multiple regions, one concerning change paints a bleak future for physical releases in general.

I'm Surprised To Learn BOTW Shrines Could Have Shown Up In An Even Earlier Zelda Game
A version of Breath of the Wild's Shrines could have appeared in an earlier Zelda game, and I can't help but feel it would have been a perfect fit.

One New Addition To Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Has Me More Excited For The Game Than Before
The introduction of psychic abilities in Metroid Prime 4: Beyond have some huge potential implications, making me more excited for the game.

Switch 2's Lending System Restrictions Are Unnecessary
While Nintendo's Virtual Game Card service allows for greater accessibility, the restrictions made to lending games on Switch feels unnecessary.

I Just Learned Ocarina Of Time Could've Been Much Different If It Wasn't For Another Zelda Game, But It Makes Complete Sense
Ocarina of Time takes huge inspiration from another Zelda game for its narrative, and it had a huge influence on the rest of the series going forward.

Assassin's Creed Shadows' Reported Sales Success Is Not Enough To Save Ubisoft
While Assassin's Creed Shadows is proving to be a necessary win for Ubisoft, it may not be enough to save the company from its bevy of issues.

How Likely Is A Nintendo Direct For March 2025? Latest Rumors Explained
Rumors have begun to spread of a Nintendo Direct set to happen later this week before the Switch 2 presentation, but how likely is it going to happen?

After Seeing This Minor Steam Update, I'm Convinced GTA 6 Just Lost GOTY 2025
With a hugely-anticipated indie game possibly getting a 2025 release, GTA 6 might have received some serious competition for the GOTY title.

The Original Legend Of Zelda Got A Remake Most Fans Probably Don't Even Know About
The original Legend of Zelda game received a remake on the SNES, and it remains as one of the series' rarest titles due to its limited availability.

After Learning About BOTW's Original Story, I'm Relieved We Never Got That Zelda Game
Breath of the Wild's early development included a wild concept for the game's story, and I'm glad Nintendo decided to take a different direction.

I Can't Get Excited For The Switch 2 Until Nintendo Addresses One Of My Biggest Issues With Its Predecessor
The prevalent issue of Joy-Con drift with the original Switch has me worried for the Switch 2, and it's something Nintendo needs to address.

10 Biggest Predictions For The Switch 2 Nintendo Direct In April
There are many announcements that are likely going to be included in Nintendo's Switch 2-focused Direct, from pricing to game announcements.

This Rumored Switch 2 Game Has Me More Excited Than Any Other Potential Launch Title
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is rumored to release on Nintendo Switch 2, and I couldn't think of a more ideal launch title for the new console

I'm Still Annoyed BOTW & TOTK Downplayed One Of My Favorite Zelda Series Staples
While many changes that BOTW & TOTK made were refreshing, there's one series staple that's severely downplayed, making its inclusion disappointing.

Zelda Fans Should Keep Their Eye On This Indie Game
Mina The Hollower is an title from critically-acclaimed studio Yacht Club Games, and takes huge inspiration from classic Zelda games.