The boys welcome Smart Matt back to the show to discuss the results of their inaugural Fantasy Video Game league and make some early Game Awards predictions. Recorded 11/4/2025.

AI Generated Chapters

00:00 Game Night Shenanigans

03:01 Video Game Preferences and Critiques

06:05 Furloughs and Life Updates

08:58 Baldur's Gate 3 and Gaming Comparisons

11:45 Game of the Year Predictions and Discussions

19:32 Game Comparisons and Mechanics

24:36 Family Gaming and Nostalgia

30:06 Baldur's Gate 3: Honor Mode Adventures

36:54 Exploring New Titles and Game Mechanics

41:39 Liza P: A Mixed Experience

44:51 Fantasy Draft Analysis and Game Scores

52:41 Excitement for Upcoming Games

55:46 Diverse Gaming Experiences and Expectations

58:41 Reviewing Game Releases and Expectations

01:00:05 Disappointment in Game Performance

01:02:00 Fantasy Game Picks and Predictions

01:04:31 Anticipation for Future Releases

01:06:57 Game Awards Predictions and Discussions

01:22:13 Game Awards Predictions and Controversies

01:25:03 Indie Game Highlights and Competition

01:30:09 The Impact of Game Releases on Awards

01:35:13 Best Action and Art Direction Categories

01:40:16 Personal Game of the Year Picks

The boys celebrate the spooky season by reviewing a small collection of horror demos and then sharing thoughts on a wide array of horror themed video games. Recorded 10/21/2025.

The boys are joined by Trevor from the Catching Up On Cinema podcast to discuss movies that they would like to see turned into video games. Recorded 10/8/2025.

AI Generated Chapter List

00:00 Introduction and Anticipation

05:51 Planning the Podcast Topic

12:01 Diving into Video Games

18:08 Exploring Indie Horror Games

24:40 Diving into Baldur's Gate 3

30:01 The Challenge of Honor Mode

37:49 Movies and TV Series as Video Games

50:37 Godzilla: A Game Concept

01:00:07 Game Mechanics and Design Ideas

01:10:51 Exploring Alternate Storylines

01:19:58 Fury Road: The Game Concept

01:28:51 The Power of Music in Film and Gaming

01:37:45 Reimagining The Thing: A Narrative-Driven Experience

01:48:39 The Potential of Army of Darkness in Gaming

01:57:56 Die Hard: A Game Built on Uncharted's Engine

02:04:50 Creative Game Concepts and Adaptations

02:11:15 Exploring Iconic Franchises for Game Adaptations

02:20:15 Innovative Game Mechanics and Narrative Structures

02:31:48 Upcoming Events and Personal Projects

The boys discuss video games that took started slow but picked up momentum along the way. Recorded 9/22/2025.

AI Generated Chapter List

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Slow Rollers in Gaming

07:19 Exploring Baldur's Gate 3 Experience

11:46 Contrasting Role-Playing Experiences: Diablo 4 vs. Baldur's Gate 3

14:48 Disappointment in Mortal Kombat 1

20:10 Diving into Lies of P

20:58 Jack's Indie Game Highlights

25:01 Nostalgia and Hidden Gems in Sports Friends

26:18 Jack's Experience with Silksong

28:51 The Journey Begins: UFO 50 and Slow Rolling Games

33:15 Exploring Slow Rollers: Final Fantasy Tactics and Beyond

36:47 Outer Wilds: The Challenge of Mastering Flight

39:33 The Contrast of Slow Starts: Jedi Fallen Order vs. Baldur's Gate 3

55:18 The Painful Beginnings: Red Dead Redemption 2 and Fallout 3

01:03:10 The Challenge of Slow Game Introductions

01:09:04 Character Development and Narrative Engagement

01:15:03 Exploring Game Mechanics and Player Experience

01:21:09 The Impact of Game Design on Player Immersion

01:29:42 Final Thoughts on Game Recommendations and Experiences

The boys share their thoughts on insects (bugs) in video games. Recorded 9/6/2025.

The boys weigh in on the 2012 edition of the "Spike Video Game Awards." Recorded 8/24/2025.

AI Generated Chapter List

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter

03:34 Current Gaming Experiences

20:29 Looking Back at the 2012 Video Game Awards

32:20 Best Performance and Game Categories

59:42 Reflections on Game Studios and Industry Trends

01:21:05 Final Thoughts on 2012 Gaming Landscape

The boys discuss maps in video games from a variety of perspectives. Recorded 8/11/2025.

AI Generated Chapter List

00:00 Technical Difficulties and Introductions

03:00 Navigating Video Game Maps

05:59 The Importance of the 'Glue Guy' in Gaming

09:00 Gaming Experiences and Recent Plays

11:58 Exploring New Game Releases

12:59 Diving into Maps in Video Games

19:40 Exploring Game Builds and Strategies

21:29 Beta Testing and Multiplayer Experiences

23:39 Challenging Boss Fights in Gaming

24:50 The Frustration of Difficult Games

28:35 Doom: The Dark Ages and Its Unique Mechanics

34:01 The Importance of Maps in Gaming

40:46 Navigating Complex Game Worlds

52:38 Exploring the Fog of War in Elden Ring

55:37 The Art of Map Navigation

01:00:01 Crafting Maps in Minecraft

01:03:40 Unique Map Mechanics in Gaming

01:08:45 Dynamic Maps in Mass Effect and Beyond

01:12:15 The Impact of Map Design in Open World Games

01:18:44 Comparing Iconic Game Maps

01:28:19 The Last of Us: A Study in Map Design

01:35:28 Immersive Game Environments

01:36:28 Map Design and Tactical Gameplay

01:37:27 Dynamic Battlefield Structures

01:42:57 Strategic Map Advantages

01:43:20 Verticality in Game Maps

01:46:36 Map Size and Player Strategy

01:49:28 Exploration vs. Combat in Game Maps

01:51:36 Classic FPS Maps and Their Impact

01:53:05 Game Mechanics and Map Design

01:56:35 Innovative Map Design in RPGs

02:00:41 Transformative Map Experiences

02:02:14 Time Travel and Map Exploration

02:04:30 Indecent Proposals and Game Choices

Matt and Jack team up without resident "Glue Guy" Dave to discuss "Nine Sols" and other games with parry mechanics. Recorded 8/4/2025

AI Generated Chapter List

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Gaming Updates

03:24 Project Zomboid: Survival and Hilarious Deaths

06:59 Exploring New Games: The Alters and Doom Dark Ages

10:00 Doom Dark Ages: A Grizzly Bear Experience

12:44 Xbox vs PlayStation: The Next Generation Debate

16:41 Vacation Gaming: Vampire Survivors and Deus Ex

24:11 Nine Souls: A Deep Dive into Gameplay and Mechanics

33:47 Mastering Combat Mechanics

36:21 Navigating Game Design Challenges

39:55 The Thrill of Boss Fights

45:47 Exploring the Story and Characters

51:52 Thematic Depth and Political Undertones

55:07 Counter Mechanics and Gameplay Dynamics

59:29 Favorite Parry Systems in Gaming

01:06:21 The Evolution of Combat Mechanics

01:12:02 Exploring Unique Gameplay Experiences

01:17:15 The Impact of Parry Mechanics in Gaming

01:23:34 Honorable Mentions and Personal Favorites

01:26:03 The Pinnacle of Parry Systems: Sekiro

01:39:19 Nostalgia for Retro Games

01:40:05 Boss Fights in Nine Souls

01:42:32 Final Boss Dynamics

01:43:32 Game Design and Replay Value

01:44:51 Village Rescue Mission Experience

01:46:35 Platinum Trophy Aspirations

01:47:09 Frustrations with Game Mechanics

01:48:43 Studio's Future and Game Recognition

01:50:40 Parrying Mechanics in Gaming

01:51:35 Closing Thoughts and Future Games

The boys are joined by Dark/Smart Matt to check in on the leaderboard for the inaugural Fantasy Video Game tournament. Recorded 7/7/2025.

AI Chapter List

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Current Games

06:04 Discussion on Doom Dark Ages and Its Mechanics

12:11 Fantasy Draft Recap and Game Ratings

28:59 Game Predictions and Expectations

34:26 Analyzing Game Releases and Delays

41:34 Team Selections and Strategies

47:14 Multiplayer Dynamics in Night Rain

56:20 Community Development and Gameplay Mechanics

01:01:46 Community Engagement in Elden Ring

01:08:02 Character Classes and Strategies

01:14:12 Accessibility and Onboarding in Gaming

The boys deep dive into the presumptive 2025 Game of the Year, "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Recorded 6/23/2025

AI Generated Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Game of the Year Discussion

08:38 Exploring Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

17:24 Transitioning to Other Games and Experiences

31:35 Deep Dive into Clear Obscure: Expedition 33

38:11 Combat Systems and Gameplay Mechanics

46:23 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

46:52 Balancing Power and Gameplay Mechanics

49:44 Combat Systems and Synergies

54:41 Streamlined Gameplay Experience

59:19 The Essence of Game Development

01:04:33 Narrative Depth and Character Development

01:09:41 Exploring Themes of Sacrifice and Morality

01:33:54 Exploring Character Depth and Moral Choices

01:36:20 The Nature of Reality in Gaming

01:39:32 Empathy and Emotional Impact of Choices

01:42:18 The Haunting Endings and Their Significance

01:45:23 Critiques and Gameplay Mechanics

01:50:40 Navigating the Game World and Exploration

01:58:47 Boss Fights and Combat Mechanics

02:05:35 Final Thoughts and Ratings

The boys look back at the 2018 Game Awards, one of the most packed years in gaming ever. Recorded 6/2/2025.

AI Generated Chapter List

05:57 Exploring New Games and Genres

08:51 The Impact of 2018 Game Awards

12:06 Best Ongoing Game Discussion

23:15 The Evolution of Ongoing Games

27:16 Exploring VR and AR Gaming

31:27 Best Action and Independent Games

36:19 Survival Games and Unique Experiences

42:51 Role-Playing Games and Their Impact

50:01 Best Performance in Gaming

54:24 The Impact of Iconic Game Moments

56:57 Musical Masterpieces in Gaming

01:00:09 The Art of Audio Design

01:01:00 Art Direction: Aesthetic Choices in Gaming

01:06:05 Narrative Depth in Video Games

01:09:04 Game Direction: Crafting Unique Experiences

01:12:00 Indie Game Innovations

01:14:00 Game of the Year Controversies

01:19:09 Final Thoughts on the 2018 Game Awards

The boys take a look back at the 2013 Spike Video Game Awards and weigh in on a truly amazing year in gaming. ]-Recorded 5/20/2025. Topic begins at 7:50

Jack's subjects Dave and Matt to his choice title for 2025, "Blue Prince." Does it live up to the critical acclaim that it has received? Recorded 5/5/2025.

AI Generated Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

08:53 Exploring Recent Gaming Experiences

21:04 Diving into Blueprints: Game Overview

30:01 Gameplay Mechanics and Player Experiences

33:17 Personal Preferences in Gaming

34:39 The Importance of Note-Taking

36:22 Immersion and Engagement in Gameplay

40:54 Ratings and Personal Experiences

46:21 Comparative Analysis with Other Games

49:41 Diverse Perspectives on Game Enjoyment

55:10 Quality of Life Improvements in Gaming

01:01:09 Memorable Puzzles and Rooms

01:15:44 Unlocking the Foundation: Key Moments in Gameplay

01:18:00 Puzzle Frustrations: The Pushcart Sequence

01:21:01 Strategic Room Management: The Importance of Drafting

01:25:57 The Joy of Discovery: Unraveling Game Mysteries

01:30:47 The Impact of Environmental Storytelling

01:50:00 Narrative Depth: The Lore of the Game

01:52:47 The Myth of the Mansion and Family Ties

01:59:17 Unraveling the Heist and Political Intrigue

02:01:05 The Red Prince: A Story Within a Story

02:07:43 Game Mechanics and Narrative Depth

02:14:18 The State of Gaming: Unique Experiences vs. Mediocrity

02:20:05 Final Thoughts and Reflections on Gaming

The boys run through a plethora of games that they have been enjoying before Jack and Dave regale Matt about their experiences with early Game of the Year contender "Split Fiction." Recorded 4/14/2025.

AI Generated Chapters

00:00 Technical Difficulties and Podcast Setup

03:11 Gaming Updates and Recent Plays

05:52 Exploring New Game Releases

08:50 Game Recommendations and Reviews

11:57 Nostalgia in Gaming and Franchise Connections

15:01 Indie Game Discoveries and Steam Deck Experiences

17:55 Developer Insights and Game Modifications

20:59 Upcoming Titles and Community Challenges

30:31 Exploring New Game Titles

33:08 Unique Gameplay Mechanics

36:06 Diving into Split Fiction

46:06 The Strengths and Weaknesses of Split Fiction

53:53 Gameplay Experiences and Replay Value

59:54 Dialogue and Storytelling in Games

01:08:33 Game Mechanics and Side Stories

01:11:11 Immersive Soundtracks and Visuals

01:14:06 Unique Level Designs and Boss Fights

01:18:36 Innovative Gameplay Mechanics

01:21:33 Final Level Dynamics and Collaboration

01:28:39 Game Design Philosophy and Player Experience

It happens to every podcast... After 125+ episodes we finally had an issue with recording that cost us an episode. This episode is lost, but at least Jack's ranting about minimalism will live on! Recorded 3/31/2025

Matt and Jack finally experience Dave’s most beloved video game franchise and share their thoughts. Is this a contender for Game of the Year 2025? Recorded 3/17/2025

AI Generated Chapters

02:03 Gameplay Experiences and Initial Impressions

04:58 Diving into Monster Hunter Wilds

08:08 Combat Mechanics and Weapon Choices

10:45 Menu System and Learning Curve

13:58 Weapon Mechanics and Player Strategies

17:05 The Role of Multiplayer and Cooperation

20:07 Wound System and Combat Dynamics

22:49 Monster Design and Fight Experiences

43:54 The Impact of Soundtracks in Gaming

45:29 Memorable Dragon Fights and Combat Mechanics

48:21 The Role of Companions in Combat

50:27 Frustrations with Game Mechanics

53:11 Narrative and Character Development in Monster Hunter

56:19 The Aesthetics of Monster Design

59:06 The Co-op Experience and Multiplayer Dynamics

01:02:17 Open World Exploration vs. Structured Gameplay

01:08:19 Collecting and Crafting Mechanics in Monster Hunter

01:19:10 Character Dynamics and Positivity in Gaming

01:24:19 Gameplay Mechanics and Community Engagement

01:29:40 Personal Experiences and Game Ratings

01:37:35 Future of the Game and Community Expectations

The boys weigh in on the inaugural 2014 Game of the Year Awards with the benefit of hindsight. Recorded 3/3/2025

AI Generated Chapter List

00:00 Introduction to Indie Games and Telltale's Legacy

05:34 Exploring Recent Game Experiences

15:31 Diving into Monster Hunter Wilds

25:28 The Evolution of Game Awards and Developer Recognition

45:08 The Evolution of Indie Games

47:29 Best Shooter Games of 2014

49:55 Debating the Best Shooter

55:35 Titanfall's Struggles

57:43 Best Performance in Gaming

01:01:58 Games for Change and Impactful Titles

01:05:34 Best RPGs of 2014

01:14:11 The Changing Landscape of Game Development

01:20:52 Game of the Year Contenders

01:29:42 Reflections on 2014's Game Awards

The boys review their favorite boss fights experienced in calendar year 2024. Recorded 1/17/2025

AI Generated Chapters

00:00 Navigating Work and Health Challenges

02:51 Gaming Picks and Strategies

04:36 Transitioning into the Main Discussion

05:11 Current Gaming Experiences

19:05 Top Boss Battles of 2024

46:06 Honorable Mentions and Final Thoughts

50:27 Visual Design and Boss Mechanics in Gaming

55:48 Challenging Boss Fights: Learning Through Failure

01:00:42 Honorable Mentions: Notable Bosses of the Year

01:11:20 Top Picks: The Best Boss Fights of 2024

01:32:46 New Chapter

The boys are joined by Smart Matt to launch the first ever Couch Co-op Fantasy Video Game Draft, with bragging rights and a video game of the winner's choosing on the line. Recorded 1/27/2025

AI Generated Chapters

00:00 Recent Gaming Experiences and Challenges

00:44 Game Drafting Rules and Strategies

00:56 New Chapter

08:13 Current Gaming Trends and Personal Favorites

17:44 Exploring UFO 50: A Unique Gaming Experience

26:15 Engaging with Game Development and Community

33:35 Drafting Anticipated Games for 2025

51:30 Final Picks and Predictions for Upcoming Titles

57:13 The Appeal of Niche RPGs

01:03:53 Final Picks and Predictions

01:11:32 Reflections on the Draft

01:16:36 Closing Thoughts and Future Expectations

01:27:49 Nerd Stuff

The boys share their favorite games of calendar year 2024. Recorded 1/10/2025.

AI Generated Chapter List

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Game of the Year Excitement

00:55 Recent Gaming Experiences and Reviews

09:55 Discussion on Couch Co-op and Multiplayer Games

15:10 Battlefield 1 and Gaming Strategies

20:39 Couch Co-op Experiences

45:48 The Impact of Shadow of the Earth Tree

51:45 Navigating the Challenges of Elden Ring DLC

57:46 Exploring Nine Souls: A Metroidvania Experience

01:05:40 Reflecting on Last Year's Top Games

01:10:45 Alan Wake 2: A Unique Narrative Experience

01:18:39 The Spectacle of Black Myth: Wukong

01:28:39 Visual Spectacle: The Beauty of Black Myth Wukong

01:35:33 Astro Bot: A Testament to Optimism and Family Gaming

01:45:52 Exploring the Depths of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erd Tree

01:55:56 Animal Well: The Magic of Indie Gaming

02:03:13 Dead Cells: The Rogue-Like Experience

02:16:35 Gaming Experiences and Community Engagement

02:23:42 Honorable Mentions and Unique Titles

02:30:00 Subnautica: Exploration and Survival Mechanics

02:37:56 The Impact of Indie Games on the Industry

02:47:22 The Evolution of Deck Builders

02:54:18 Reflections on Game of the Year