Summer Family Fun + Games!

What do you get when you mix fun + marshmallows + ginger ale + and mustard? Something disgusting, but... you know what's not disgusting? Having a great Summer!

Summer shouldn't be solely about gaming, even though we recommend that it be on the activity list... but there are other things to enjoy. Get crafty, game on, and have some fun... under the sun! I'll kick this post off with a dose of gaming... crank up the speakers and enjoy!

Arts & Crafts don't have to be the same old same old... there are plenty of Printables from Play Nintendo that your children can enjoy. Check these out (many more where these came from):

Pikmin coloring pages:

Powered up activities:

Pikmin...in color!:

Up and away! Paper Mario Airplane:

Print & play with Peach activity book:

Printable Mario & Luigi Masks (Adult required):

Print & Play Princess Peach Crown: (Adult required):

DK dress-up fun! (Adult required):

Paper Pikmin (Adult required):

Stage Craft (Adult required):

Kicking it with Mario:

Wario 'stache mask (Adult assistance required):

If you serve up these activities to your kids once per day, you're looking at nearly a month or so worth of arts and crafts for them to enjoy. Grab crayons or coloring pencils, scissors, print... and dig in! Whether these activities are done at home, vacation or staycation... they're a perfect fit.

 Fun and Affordable Summer Activities for Families in Orlando, Florida 

Orlando, Florida, is renowned for its world-class theme parks, but there’s so much more to explore, especially for families looking for fun and affordable summer activities (even though those usually traveling to Orlando are here for the theme parks). On the most affordable note though, here are some top picks that won’t break the bank:

Crayola Experience Orlando

Located at The Florida Mall, the Crayola Experience is a vibrant, interactive attraction where creativity knows no bounds. Families can enjoy hands-on activities, from making personalized crayons to exploring the color playground. It’s a colorful adventure that kids and adults alike will love.

Fun Spot America Theme Parks

Fun Spot America offers a variety of thrilling rides and attractions, including multi-level go-kart tracks, a wooden roller coaster, and a splash pad. The best part? Admission is free for non-riders, and parking is also complimentary. It’s a perfect spot for a day of excitement without the hefty price tag.

WonderWorks Orlando

This “amusement park for the mind” features over 100 interactive exhibits that blend education and entertainment. From a ropes course to a 6D motion ride, WonderWorks offers endless fun for the whole family. It’s an affordable way to spend a day exploring and learning.

Lake Eola Park

In the heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park is a serene escape with plenty of activities for families. Enjoy a picnic by the lake, feed the swans, or take a leisurely paddleboat ride. The park also hosts free concerts and events throughout the summer, making it a great spot for budget-friendly fun.

Leu Gardens

For nature lovers, Leu Gardens offers 50 acres of beautiful gardens and landscapes. Admission is free on the first Monday of each month, providing an affordable way to explore the diverse plant collections and enjoy a peacefulday outdoors.

Central Florida Springs

Cool off from the summer heat by visiting one of Central Florida’s natural springs. Places like Wekiwa Springs and Blue Spring State Park offer refreshing swimming spots, kayaking, and scenic trails. Admission fees are minimal, making it a cost-effective family outing.

Orlando Science Center

The Orlando Science Center is a fantastic destination for curious minds. With interactive exhibits, live science demonstrations, and a planetarium, it’s both educational and entertaining. The center often offers discounted admission days, so keep an eye out for deals.

Disney Springs

While visiting the major theme parks can be pricey, Disney Springs offers a taste of Disney magic without the high cost. Stroll through the shops, enjoy live entertainment, and indulge in delicious treats. It’s a fun way to experience the Disney atmosphere on a budget. 

By the way, you can do something additional with this. You can resort hop... just take a free boat, bus, or monorail to the various Disney resorts and immerse yourself without an official resort stay. You can enjoy the atmosphere, the foods, as well as the desserts while being outside only during your transportation.

Big Tree Park & N Mills Ave

Not only do you have a park in this area, but it's right next to North Mills Avenue. This particular road isn't exactly a place presented to tourist, but it's a strip full of restaurants that also contains bars for those looking for that sort of thing.

Splash Pads and Playgrounds

Orlando is home to numerous splash pads and playgrounds that are perfect for cooling off and having fun. Many local parks offer these amenities for free, making them an excellent option for families looking to enjoy the outdoors without spending a lot. Lake Lorna Doone Park is one example of a park with a Splashpad, but... there is more than one option + some resorts have splash pads or mini waterparks.

Dezerland Park Orlando

Dezerland Park is Florida’s largest indoor attraction, offering a wide range of activities for families. Enjoy thrilling go-karting, explore the extensive Orlando Auto Museum, play boutique bowling, immerse yourself in The Pinball Palace, bounce at Jump Start Trampoline, and engage in black light combat with gel blasters in Toxic Blast. With so many unique attractions under one roof, Dezerland Park guarantees a day full of fun and excitement for everyone. Dezerland Deals.

Orlando offers a wealth of affordable activities for families to enjoy during the summer. From interactive museums and natural springs to vibrant parks and free events, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags, gather the family, and get ready to explore all that Orlando has to offer without breaking the bank. Even if you plan to only go to the parks a portion of the time... you can utilize these other options as fun fillers. Dezerland gives you a place to get out of the sun, rain, and it's open at night. Now let's jump into portable gaming!

 Why Handheld Gaming Devices Are Perfect for a Summer Vacation 

Summer vacations are all about the relaxation, adventure, and making the most of your free time between travel. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, traveling to a new destination, or simply enjoying a staycation, handheld gaming devices like the Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and MSI Claw can enhance your summer experience.

Handheld gaming devices are designed to be portable, making them ideal for travel. The Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and MSI Claw are compact and lightweight, allowing you to easily slip them into your backpack or carry-on luggage. This means you can enjoy your favorite games whether you’re on a plane, at the beach, or at a fly resort. 

So you get the portability + convenience, the ability to connect to a resort TV if you want to use a bigger screen, you can jump online if you have internet access as well. By the way, even if you don't have internet access... you can still enjoy multiplayer on all three of these devices. Off top, you will be able to play multiplayer offline the easiest on the Nintendo Switch, you don't have to worry about using internet/hotspot or Ad-Hoc between two devices. 

If there are more than two gamers, the ease of connecting is even better with the Nintendo Switch and some games give you the ability to play together by way of only one person owning the game. Nevertheless, if you only have one handheld device on deck, and 4 controllers are available... you can still enjoy multiplayer action on these devices (preferably on a big screen). 

So take advantage of the versatility during your travels, fun it up, eat well, create some great memories and... game on!

 + Sophima 

Support us below!

Gaming Hardshell Travel Backpack (TSA Friendly)

Save Star Orlando

Can the Steam Deck outgrow the Nintendo Switch? Yes it can! Here's why!

This might seem random (and it is), but... the Steam Deck has become a bigger curiosity when talking to fellow gamers. Either some are simply curious about it and want to learn more... or they're literally trying to find a store that sells it so they can snag one. I've talked to numerous gamers with Steam Deck on the brain, and after speaking about several pluses, most are sold on the investment. This wasn't for the sake of me selling anything but... there are pluses to having one. I still say... it's based on what you're looking for though (and i'll continue to say that).

The reason why the Steam Deck has the potential to outgrow the Nintendo Switch, is something I've mentioned before... and that's the Steam platform. It's been around longer than the Nintendo eShop, the Steam Deck won't have a cut off point in regards to the Steam store (same as traditional laptops + desktops). Same account, different systems. 

The company itself would likely have to shut it's doors, but... that still wouldn't prevent the device from functioning. 

The same would apply to the Switch, but... as far as which would still have access to their respective online store... that would be the Steam Deck (unless Nintendo keeps the door open for the long haul to make it debatable). 

One might say it's possible for Nintendo to follow in Valve's footsteps, but... do you really see Nintendo placing potential sales at risk by allowing Switch access to the eShop for the life of future consoles? (C'mon Son!)

This doesn't count Nintendo out as far as future consoles go, but if and when Steam is able to get the price of the device down further... that would increase the incentive to buy. Especially for those who want games Nintendo doesn't have access to and... could careless about owning the First Party titles. The price hasn't stopped a number of gamers from asking me where to buy (after giving them the benefits of owning one). 

The saving grace for Nintendo is it's first party line up for die hard fans, and... one that we forget... which are the physical copies of games. When it comes to online support and access to eShop, that can vanish, but just like previous Nintendo consoles/handhelds, if you have the cartridge and your system works... you can play it. So when it comes to the physical games... Nintendo has the upperhand (these can be passed on to your kids without account/internet access), when it comes to digital... I give it to Valve. Also, you will be able to access new games on your Steam Deck... years from now, if it still works and iFixIt still repairs them. Technically, repair companies can fix a system regardless, as long as they have parts that fit.

The good thing is... these are two portable/versitile handhelds that are different enough to deliver more options for our enjoyment. Nintendo dominated for quite some time (with beloved handhelds still floating around + remakes), and now a new competitor is here + others, especially for those who gave up traditional/stationary consoles altogether. Some people aren't home that often and don't wish to carry around a console they need to connect to the telly in order to enjoy. There are some minimalists who don't even have televisions, while others just can't afford one.

Financial struggles also emerged as a topic, especially in terms of certain gamers looking at expenses and feeling as if they really need to watch out for spending too much due to financial insecurities (so the decision to buy is restricted to either or).

Financial insecurities actually opened the door to this conversation for a number of gamers who are fresh out of high school, they've been out of college for a few years (dealing with debt) and still don't qualify for entry-level positions, or they have a budget and want to invest in something that stretches beyond the shelf life of a traditional system. On that note... a lack of money increases the desire for some to spend more wisely (nothing wrong with budgeting either way... but) the cost of Nintendo's first party games comes up in terms of which system is more affordable for the long haul.

Nintendo eShop serves up deals (I've snagged multiple myself)... so I defintely wouldn't say that it doesn't, but when it comes to first party titles... they're going to remain at a premium price. Always have. This doesn't condemn the first party titles from Nintendo (there are some great ones), but a number of gamers are literally gaming exclusively from the discount bin outside of the times they save up for that one game they really want. On that note, if they don't realistically see themselves buying first party games from Nintendo... and they need a system that does more than gaming for the long haul... Steam Deck appears to be that solution because it's also computer. This sealed the deal for a number of the gamers that brought this topic to mind.

Both give you access to Hulu + YouTube, but Steam Deck gives you access to everything else as well + gaming + the ability to switch to desktop (remember this is a Linux operating system). I have no loyalty to either company, this is all about what benefits gamers and our needs. A gamer who needs a free video editing software, free image editing software, free office suite, and more... get these things in Steam Deck. Place the Steam Deck on the Dock and use a monitor and speakers for movies, and signing into an online work platform shouldn't be a stretch via Microsoft 360. Again, this doesn't make the Switch a bad option, but a number of gamers are adapting to the situation in order to enjoy gaming and grinding!

For struggling gamers who desire to get a Steam Deck/PC set up for a studio apartment, I recommend something... similar to the following:

39.4" Foldable Desk (No Assembly Required) | $69.99

22 Inch Monitors (2-Pack) 1920 x 1080p | $119.97

These desktop speakers also have speakers on the side | $13.99 or...

Logitech Z313 2.1 speeakers + Subwoofer | $59.99

Amazon Wireless Keyboard & Mouse | $20.69

Steam Deck Dock | $46.99

Put it together, and you have what you see in the image above.

Support us below!

The Cushion Designed for Gaming!

Sexy Summer Luv | Available Now!

Apple Music/Amazon Music/Etc.

Why Playing Video Games Shouldn't be Guilt-inducing: The Pursuit of Joy in Hobbies

Are you feeling guilty about spending free time playing video games instead of doing something else that is allegedly more productive or culturally valuable? Perhaps someone has made you feel inadequate or guilty about your hobby... as if theirs is superior. This article posits that activities that bring you joy and relaxation are actually worth your time, no matter what form that comes in (unless they're doing harm to someone).

In the grand scheme of things, we all should be pursuing things that bring us joy and fulfillment or... what are we doing that puts a smile on our face? If video games do that, then there's nothing inherently wrong with playing them - same as any other hobby that brings you happiness (again, unless it's doing harm to someone). In fact, studies have shown that playing video games can have cognitive benefits, including improving strategic thinking, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving skills. It can also serve as an outlet for stress relief and relaxation as mentioned in the past. You aren't making a cyborg to cause havoc in the real world... you're gaming in your free time.

Ask them what they're doing with their free time, and when they respond, give them props... and point out how easy it was for you to do that without judging them.

It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that one activity is morally superior to another. However, what's important is that we engage in activities that we enjoy, not what other people think is... better (or your enjoyment would be centered around someone else's preferences). We don't like the same things, there's a non-stop debate that I've never participated in regarding best rappers, because preference is preference. I've seen people in heated debates highly upset, and at times I couldn't contain myself as far as asking them a question about preference. It's okay if you like bacon and mushroom pizza, it's okay if I enjoy pepperoni + pineapple pizza (and I prefer an even layer of tomato sauce, because it's dry with a lack thereof). Everyone has their own pursuits - some people love working out, while others prefer reading or cooking. These are all valid ways to spend your free time and bring joy to your life.

Moreover, the idea that video games are for children is outdated, but... it's still an assumption at play. I can't even call it outdated because... adults were gaming since day one. Who played video games first, adults or children? (Come on... be honest.) Current research indicates that the average age of gamers is between 35-44 years old (and that's because that was huge in our time and we've seen the growth), and the number of female gamers is undeniable also. I have to put that in there because there were girls who games right along with us, and my mom got me into console gaming. So when I mention gamers, the assumption should be anyone who games, not just select male gamers with a rig in a basement somewhere. We come in many shapes, sizes, and from various walks of life... and we all enjoy picking up a controller, keyboard and mouse, racewheel, fight stick, flight controls, VR, Steam Deck, Switch, and cellphones get our game on. 

The gaming industry has expanded to include a diverse range of genres and platforms that cater to a variety of interests and abilities as well. Therefore, it's vital to stop perpetuating harmful stereotypes that limit who can enjoy video games.

That's because it's an enjoyable hobby for those who enjoy such... which is something presented to those non-gamers who judge gamers, and gamers who judge other gamers (enjoy your free time and leave it at that... you can't get any of that time back).

Fact: You don't have to be a hater all your life.

That being said, excessive gaming can become a habit that interferes with daily life, like any activity that gets taken to an extreme. It's essential to recognize the difference between indulging in a hobby and creating an unhealthy dependency. Some signs of excessive gaming include neglecting responsibilities, withdrawing from social activities, and struggling to control how much time you spend playing. If that is the case, it might be time to take a step back and re-evaluate your gaming habits. Maybe short sessions on weekdays and a time carved out to game during the weekend so that you aren't playing catch up with other tasks (the same applies to other hobbies).

In conclusion, there's no shame in enjoying video games or any other leisure activity that brings you joy. The most important thing is doing what makes you feel good in a responsible manner. Play games... don't play yourself. Whether you prefer spending your time gaming or doing something else, it's essential to keep in mind that there's no universally superior hobby, just different ways to achieve satisfaction and happiness. Don't let anyone else's opinions of your pursuits diminish the value of what makes you happy. Life is too short to waste time denying yourself the simple pleasure of video gaming. 

So grind, stay well, and... game on!

For more on the affects of Joy on your body, check out this article by Carrie Murphy. This article was also medically reviewed by... Tim Legg, PhD, PsyD!

Sophima

 + Blu 

Support us via the helpful links below!

Get a full controller experience on Switch!