When we think of video games, most of our attention goes to gameplay, graphics, and storytelling. But for some players, food featured in games holds a special place in their hearts. At this year's PAX East, Butterfinger asked attendees what their favorite in-game foods were, and there was no shortage of nostalgia and passionate responses. Here's a closer look at the video game dishes that gamers loved most.

Zelda’s apples: Perfectly picturesque

One of the first mentions was the apples from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. These seemingly simple fruits strike an emotional chord for players. As one attendee noted, "all the apples in Breath of the Wild look so picturesque, perfect." The care and detail Nintendo put into designing even fundamental resources like apples resonated with those who encountered them during their journeys in Hyrule. The crisp, vibrant red visuals conjured up feelings of familiarity and cozy in-game comfort.

The "goated" hamburger steak from Poctopia

For fans of Poctopia, the hamburger steak is a standout. Described as "so goated," it’s clear this virtual meal holds legendary status. While Poctopia might not be as widely known as The Legend of Zelda or Mario, the love for this dish demonstrates how food items can become memorable symbols of the game's universe.

Princess Peach’s iconic cake

Moving on to a more universally recognized culinary masterpiece, Princess Peach’s cake from Super Mario 64 earned significant admiration. Gamers recalled this sweet treat as the reward they looked forward to after collecting Power Stars and defeating Bowser. "It's just like a reward after playing the game," one respondent said. More than a digital dessert, it symbolizes the end of a hero’s hard-earned journey.

Lee’s waffle from Slay Fire: A lifesaver in more ways than one

Another fan favorite was Lee’s waffle from Slay Fire. Known for its ability to "save so many runs," this in-game food item highlights the functional value food plays in gaming. On top of its utility, one gamer remarked on its appealing design, calling it "the best looking waffle I've ever seen." Items like these remind players how food can serve both as a visual delight and a powerful tool in their gameplay.

Expedition 33’s baguette: A universal delight

For bread lovers, the baguette from Expedition 33 stood out. One participant was quick to justify their choice with a straightforward but relatable question: "Who doesn’t love a baguette?" The simplicity of this answer reflects how even uncomplicated elements like bread can become charming highlights within a game.

Dubious food: Zelda’s comic relief

While much of the food highlighted was loved for its aesthetic or mechanical value, some players appreciated humorous options. "I really like the dubious food from The Legend of Zelda," one PAX East attendee shared. The unidentifiable blob-like dish that players can accidentally create has become a quirky joke within the fandom. Despite its questionable ingredients, it still provides utility, embodying a unique charm that adds levity to the experience.

Grandma’s soup from Wind Waker: A heartfelt classic

One dish that brought up feelings of both gameplay strategy and emotional warmth was Grandma’s soup from The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker. It comes with practical benefits—"it fully heals you, and you do bonus damage while you have full health," said one fan—but its emotional resonance makes it particularly memorable. "It’s made with love," they added. It’s a dish that combines game mechanics seamlessly with emotional storytelling, connecting the player not just to the soup but to the character who made it.

The enduring appeal of in-game food

What do these answers tell us about the relationship between gamers and virtual food? For one, the best video game foods often blend form and function. Whether it’s restoring health, boosting abilities, or simply acting as a reward, food in video games serves a purpose beyond just aesthetic appeal. Often, it’s the small details—like a family member cooking a meal or a perfectly rendered apple—that turn a digital object into something emotionally significant.

Second, food in games often acts as a mirror for the human experience. From the relatable comfort of bread to the absurdity of dubious food, these items make the virtual world feel grounded, even when the game itself is fantastical or surreal.

Who’s to say what the next iconic in-game dish will be? If creators continue to pour care into the food items they design, it’s clear that these small moments will leave big impressions on players.