In a year filled with significant milestones, 2025 marked a transformative period for gaming correspondent RK, who navigated major events, embraced personal growth in writing, and engaged with the gaming community in vibrant new ways. Reflecting on a whirlwind of experiences—from attending prestigious awards shows to participating in hands-on console previews—RK’s journey epitomizes the evolving landscape of gaming journalism.
One of the standout moments of 2025 was attending the New York Video Game Awards, an event RK initially did not anticipate. The presence of Lord Cognito, a notable figure in the gaming community, motivated RK to attend and witness the recognition of titles like Mouthwashing and Sonic X Shadow Generations. Despite some games not winning, the celebration of creativity and innovation within the industry resonated deeply with RK, particularly during tributes to influential figures such as Sam Lake, creator of beloved titles like CONTROL and Alan Wake II.
Equally impactful was the Shovel Knight: Steel Thy Concert, an event that blended nostalgia with vibrant musical performances. RK relished the opportunity to see beloved tracks from Shovel Knight and its expansions performed live, illustrating the growing respect for indie game soundtracks in a space traditionally dominated by franchises like Sonic and Final Fantasy. Engaging with the team from Yacht Club Games further solidified RK’s appreciation for the passion driving indie developers.
RK’s first experience at PAX East was another milestone that contributed to their growth as a writer. Partnering with seasoned writer Eugene Schaffmeir, RK covered titles such as The Gex Collection and Fresh Tracks. The opportunity to preview upcoming games like Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma and Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar expanded RK’s understanding of the farming sim genre, allowing them to develop a more nuanced perspective on diverse gaming experiences.
The excitement continued with an exclusive hands-on event for the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 in New York City. Winning a lottery spot to interact with the console firsthand was a childhood dream realized for RK. Engaging with titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza provided a comprehensive glimpse into the console’s capabilities, further solidifying RK’s commitment to providing insightful coverage on its launch.
Following the hands-on experience, RK took on the responsibility of leading LogNet’s coverage of the Nintendo Switch 2. Collaborating with a talented team allowed RK to contribute to console reviews and game analyses, offering multiple perspectives on the device that marked a significant leap in Nintendo’s hardware evolution. Among these projects, the group review for Mario Kart World stood out as a highlight, showcasing the value of collaborative critique in gaming journalism.
The year continued with participation in the Long Island Video Game Expo, which celebrated the legacy of the Nintendo Entertainment System. RK was thrilled to witness the homebrew scene’s creativity, featuring indie projects playable on original NES hardware. The event provided not just nostalgia, but valuable insights into how the gaming community continues to innovate while respecting its roots. Time spent with fellow enthusiasts like Cognito and Petey added a layer of camaraderie to the experience.
At the Anime Expo NYC, RK explored exciting upcoming anime-themed games, including Kaiju No. 8: The Game, which sparked a renewed interest in anime. The event served as a refreshing escape from personal stresses, highlighting the therapeutic nature of gaming and its culture. Following this, the NYC Comic Con allowed RK to excel, covering a multitude of anticipated releases such as PRAGMATA and Legacy of the Dark Knight. The buzz surrounding these titles underscored the dynamic nature of the gaming landscape.
As 2025 drew to a close, RK’s visit to New York City was a fitting culmination of the year’s experiences, filled with reflections on gaming culture amid festive surroundings. A trip to the Nintendo Store yielded a special Donkey Kong mug, symbolizing not just RK’s personal achievements, but also the enduring charm of gaming. A visit to the Microsoft Store introduced RK to the rich history of the Xbox brand—highlighted by nostalgic displays such as the original Xbox prototype and the iconic Duke Controller.
Looking ahead to 2026, RK acknowledges both excitement and challenges, especially with rising costs in the gaming industry impacting accessibility. However, the memories and experiences gathered throughout 2025 fuel a determination to continue engaging with and reporting on the gaming world. With a wealth of anticipated game releases and an ever-evolving industry landscape, RK is poised to embrace the new year with enthusiasm and resolve.
