Nicole Mazza

Writer / Peanut Zapata

Nicole Mazza

Nicole Mazza is a video game writer with 10+ years experience. With credits in multiple high-profile titles, she has lent her words to characters from beloved franchises like Star Wars and Animal Crossing. She spends her time outside of work performing stand-up comedy across the country, so she's always sure to bring a sense of humor with her wherever she goes.

The Macguffin Interrogative

The Macguffin Interrogative — Nicole Mazza

This is a getting-to-know-you feature. How knowable are you?

I am an open book. Ask away!

 What do you love? What makes you happy?

I love my family and friends. Being around them makes me the happiest.

 What do you fear?

Heights—even just watching someone scale a tall building on TV makes my palms sweaty.

 When did you start writing? What are you working on?

I started writing for fun around the fourth grade. I loved reading Shel Silverstein’s poems and then writing my own, which I would read aloud to my dog. Now I write mostly jokes and perform them for humans instead of my pets.

 Favorite book? Author?

Someone asked me the same question in 2023, and I panicked when I couldn’t think of the last book I had read. So, I made it a point to read more in 2024. I’m happy to report that I read 36 books this year! My favorite was the aptly named Book Lovers by Emily Henry. I’m a sucker for a good romcom, especially in book form.

You joined the Peanut Zapata team at Macguffin. What drew you to that character and storyline?

I’m always attracted to stories with strong female leads. Representation is important! Plus, Peanut is a great role model for young girls, especially those who are looking to pursue a career in STEM.

 You worked on Animal Crossing. What animal best encapsulates your essence?

I’m very much like a dog—gregarious, empathetic, and loyal to a fault.

 What have you been listening to lately?

I’ve been on a podcast kick for the past few months. My favorite new listen by far is Handsome with Tig Notaro, Fortune Feimster, and Mae Martin. They are a comedy dream team.

 Do you sing in the shower?

No, but only because I live in an apartment, so I’m afraid my neighbors would hear me. I belt it out in the car instead.

 Are you a movie buff? Any binge-watching recommendations?

I’m definitely not a movie buff, but I do watch a lot of TV. If you’re looking for something hilarious and heartwarming, give Ted Lasso on Apple TV a try. If you’re looking for something dramatic and a little trashy, try watching any of the Real Housewives franchises. Seriously, every reality show on Bravo is binge-worthy.

 Would you rather have an unscratchable itch or spend a year living entirely without human contact?

Does the unscratchable itch last a lifetime? If that’s the case, then I’m picking the year of solitude. I’d probably get a lot of writing done in that year, and more importantly, I wouldn’t be itchy forever!

 What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?

My dad once said, “You can always tell someone to go to hell tomorrow,” and I thought he was secretly a philosopher. Turns out he borrowed that quote from Warren Buffett. It’s still fantastic advice regardless.

Thank you. No further questions.

[End transcript]