The Experience Points Podcast
A weekly video game podcast from the co-writers of ExperiencePoints.net

It's the last podcast of 2013 and it just so happens to fall on Christmas Day.  In the spirit of giving, Hanah gives up some of her time to drop by and talk about gifts in games and some of the games that received her attention this past year.  Presents, pirates, and pyromaniacs: we cover all this and more as we make plans for our cube-shaped utopia.


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:


- Runtime: 26 min 39 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_256_-_Gift_Giving_and_More_GoTY.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

Last week we talked about our favorite games of 2013.  While these were our favorite experiences of the year, they were not necessarily the games that took up most of our time and attention.  Sometimes rough edges and flawed experiments make for the most thought-provoking discussion, so we decided to dedicate an entire episode that didn’t quite make it on our final list for 2013.  We cover everything from anti-heroes, to indie darlings, to esports, all of which kept our minds occupied throughout the year.  As always, feel free to jump in with your comments on what made the biggest impression on you in 2013.


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:


- Runtime: 38 min 11 sec

- "On Videogame Reviews," by Tevis Thompson, via TevisThompson.com

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_255_-_2013_Not_Quite_GoTY.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:32pm PDT

2013 is coming to a close and it was, well, a strange one. As is tradition, it is time to choose and discuss our personal selection of favorite games! Join us this week as we revisit some of this year's best, and be sure to come back next week when we talk about all the big games that didn't quite make our list. Of course we would love to hear from you. What were your top three games of 2013?

Show notes:

- Runtime: 40 min 07 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_254_-_2013_Games_of_the_Year.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:08pm PDT

Santa came early to the Experience Points household and he brought a shiny new PlayStation 4 with him! This week, we dip a toe into the next generation and report back with some early impressions of the new system's controller, operating system, and social features. I don't know if you heard, but this thing also plays games! With this in mind, we share some thoughts on a few of the early releases. As always, feel free to jump into the comments with your thoughts!

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 37 min 33 sec
- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_253_-_Meet_the_PS4.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

The infamous and controversial David Cage of Quantic Dream is at it again! This time, he's got Ellen Page and Willem Dafoe on his side. Is this a huge departure from Heavy Rain? Has Cage achieved his vision? Is Aiden the ghost dad we've always wanted? Join us this week as we explore the "Infraworld" and let us know your thoughts on the game below!

Show notes:

- Runtime: 59 min 42 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_252_-_Beyond_Two_Souls_Debrief.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:25pm PDT

It took two months, but we finally did it: Jorge and I both finished Grand Theft Auto V. It was a massive game by any measure: its development time, the scope of its open world, it's sales numbers, etc. This week we devote an entire episode to GTA V's sprawling pseudo-Californian world. We cover everything from targeting mechanics to the game's unrelentingly degenerate cast and throw in some classic open-world stories for good measure. GTA V sparked some strong opinions from us, so we're interested to hear what you thought. Feel free to jump into the comments with your stories from Los Santos.

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 54 min 52 sec
- "Two Important Things GTA V Is Still Getting Wrong," by Kirk Hamilton, via Kotaku
- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_251_-_GTA_V_debrief.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:42pm PDT

Who let the dog out!? Infinity Award apparently. This week on the podcast, Scott and I are joined by Riley, our lovable canine companion, to discuss Call of Duty: Ghost. This Triple-A behemoth is always worth a visit, and now maybe more than ever. Join us this week to chat about the best new addition to the CoD formula, the political ramifications of "Space Rod Technology", and the death of single-player shooters!

Show notes:

- Runtime: 40 min 46 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_250_-_Call_of_Duty_Ghosts_Debrief.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:13pm PDT

Theoretically, sequels exist because we want something familiar.  But what exactly are we seeking when we play games that are part of established franchises?  Is it the next chapter of an ongoing story, a new adventure for a familiar character, or something more mechanical?  This week, we use L. Rhodes' article as inspiration to explore these questions and attempt to suss out the difference between an uninspired rehash and an exciting follow-up.  If you have thoughts on this latest installment of our ongoing series of podcasts, feel free to jump in with your comments.


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:


- Runtime: 31 min 18 sec

- "Opinion: Why sequels are sometimes good for gamers — and how they can be better," by L. Rhodes via Polygon

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_249_-_The_Secret_Meaning_of_Sequels.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:53pm PDT

I ran over a deer today in GTA V and I felt nothing. What monster have a become!? This week on the podcast, we're inspired once again by a Gameological Q&A to discuss our animal-killing ways. Join as we talk about tiger royalty, scarcity, cute baby animals, and so much more. As always, we encourage you to hop into the comments and let us know your strategies for making people feel guilty for the slaughter of digital creatures.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 27 mins 28 secs

- "Why Can't We Be Friends?", via The Gameological Society

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_248_-_Animal_Lovers.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:46pm PDT

We have plenty of heroes in the video game world, but how many of them are likeable?  That's the question the Gameological Society staff recently discussed.  We run through their picks and throw a few of our own personal picks in the mix.  It turns out that there are plenty of video game heroes that range from a bit annoying to downright terrible.  Join us with your picks as we talk about sociopaths, 90s baditude, and the Gorton's fisherman.


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:


- Runtime: 28 min 40 sec

- "The Heroes We Don't Deserve," by via The Gameological Society

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_247_-_The_Heroes_We_Hate.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

The Master Chief has been floating in space for the past four years, but the entire time, the folks at 343 Industries were busy thinking of ways to reinvigorate the franchise without pissing off millions of fans. This week on the podcast, with a healthy heaping of post-release distance, Scott and I discuss the much anticipated Halo 4. As always, we give ample spoiler warning for those cautious about the narrative, so hop on in and let us know what you thought of 343's first efforts and making Halo their own!

Show notes:

- Runtime: 36 min 58 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_246_-_Halo_4_Debrief.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:10pm PDT

Technically, you could play GTA without breaking any laws, but wouldn't that be like playing <em>Mario</em> without jumping? This week, thanks to Mitch Krpata's article about verbs in games, we talk about the gap between the theoretical potential of a game's rules and the practical realities of the actions you can take. Along the way, we do a check in on some recent open world games we've been playing, as that genre seems particularly prone to tension between what you could do and what your available actions steer you towards. We're not here to get in the way of your action, so feel free to jump into the comments with your thoughts.

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 31 min 28 sec
- "Verbs," by Mitch Krpata, via Insult Swordfighting
- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_245_-_Taking_Action_in_Open_Worlds.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:27pm PDT

Valve is shaking up the games industry again with a set of three recent announcements (none of which were Half-Life 3 unfortunately). Leaping bravely into the Next Gen Console space, Valve will soon release their very own operating system, set of customizable Steam Machines, and controllers, all to make playing games in your living room easier. While the news was a long time coming, the mix of the three may actually cause quite a stir. Join us this week as Scott and I discuss Valve's endless money-making loop.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 34 min 17 sec

- News from Valve here.

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast__244_-_Steam_Machines_-_Hot_Air_or_Hot_Commodity.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:00pm PDT

We've wandered through these castle ever-shifting castle walls for so long, but we've finally escaped.  Actually, both Jorge and I are still fighting our way through Rogue Legacy, but after dozens of generations of fallen heroes, we decided it was time to share our experiences.  Gather round for tales of martyrdom, mining, and magic.


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:

- Runtime: 34 min 17 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_243_-_Rogue_Legacy_Debrief.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:23pm PDT

"Wait! Don't touch that... welp, you touched it."

Ouya might be struggling right now, but the concept of a cheap and adaptable home console alternative to the big three is here to stay. What does that mean for the future of gaming? And what does it mean for Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo? Stick around and ask Mr. Businessman! This week on the show, Scott and I go over the edge with the coming technological tide. As always, check out the article that inspired this week's podcast in the show notes below, it's a good one. We also encourage you to leave your thoughts and predictions about microconsoles in the comments below. Do you own an Ouya? Are you a believer?  

Show notes:

- Runtime: 28 min 05 sec

- "Snuffing out disruptive microconsoles won't be so easy for the 'big three'," by Kris Graft via Gamasutra

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_242_-_The_Magnitude_of_Microconsoles.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:32pm PDT

Thanks to you, the EXP mailbag is once again full of questions! This week, we dig through your emails, comments, and tweets, trying our best to sound like we know what we're talking about. Fourth-wall etiquette, the "indie aesthetic," steam sales, Angry Birds: it's all here. Thanks again for your questions and please keep them coming!

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 40 min 05 sec
- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_241_-_Listener_Mail_3.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:08pm PDT

Gamescom 2013, the enormous yearly gaming event in Cologne, Germany, wrapped up about a week ago. While there were no huge splashes this year, we spend this podcast visiting some of the most noteworthy news items. Join us this week on the show while Scott and I discuss Nintendo's scaling back of dimensions, Ghost conspiracies, console launch dates (which we chatted about before Microsoft's announcement today), and more! As always, we encourage you to leave your thoughts in the comments below!

Also, don't forget to submit your questions for our upcoming mailbag episode! Any questions, game related are otherwise, are appreciated. You can reach by email or twitter by checking out our contact info on the right!

Show notes:

- Runtime: 33 min 59 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_240_-_Gamescom_2013_Debrief.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:20pm PDT

Hot off the heels of our "Homage to Homes," Jorge and I have made our way through Gone Home, a game whose entire point is to explore a house and its inhabitants. It's dedication to portraying everyday environments and ordinary people actually makes it unique amongst a landscape of fantasy and super powers. The care that The Fullbright Company gives to the game's environments and characters helped spark a wide ranging discussion. We cover topics ranging from teenage romance, punk music, and the folly of trying to become a Street Fighter champion, while leaving plenty of time to discuss the more subtle plot points. As always, we hope you make yourself at home and share your thoughts in the comments.

It's the first game from The Fullbright Company, and it stands out for a few reasons. 


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 44 min 28 sec
- "Creative Restriction And The New Realism," by Matthew Burns, via Magical Realism
- Music by: Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_239_-_Gone_Home_Debrief.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:36pm PDT

The football season is upon us! Yet while the games might be raging in the stadiums, our gaming habits have long since abandoned sports games. Why did we play sports games more when we were young? Why did they fall off our radar? And what could bring us back to the field? This week on the EXP Podcast, Scott and I discuss our professional ping-pong careers, Madden, and free-to-play economics. Let us know your own relationship with sports games in the comments below!

Show notes:

- Runtime: 29 min 16 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_238_-_Sports_Games_from_the_Sidelines.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:33pm PDT

I've come to terms with the fact that there's probably never going to be another Bubsy game.  That won't break too many hearts, but what happens when we're faced with the potential "death" of a widely loved series like Final Fantasy?  Chris Kohler made such a suggestion and was greeted by more than a few irritated fans.  We took his articles and analysis as an opportunity to discuss Final Fantasy and whether a few other high-profile franchises have shuffled off this mortal coil.  If you have thoughts on a series that isn't long for this world or one that is primed and ready to rise from the ashes, jump into the comments!


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:


- Runtime: 32 min 32 sec

- "Final Fantasy Isn’t Dying. It’s Already Dead," by Chris Kohler, via Wired

- "The Bad Death of Final Fantasy: Reasons Why It’s Over," by Chris Kohler, via Wired

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_237_-_Our_Dearly_Departed_Franchises.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:45pm PDT

In one of the moving boxes around my home are my gaming systems, surely one of the nondescript ones at the bottom of a box mountain. While I try to maneuver through the moving process, we thought now would be a good time to discuss homes and the stuff we put in them. Join Scott and I this week as we chat about, SkyrimFallout, and haunted houses. As always, share with us your home-away-from-home games in the comments below!

Show notes:

- Runtime: 30 min 40 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_236_-_Homage_to_Homes.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:15pm PDT

Enclosed, please find one ticket to the Player Haters' Ball.  After last week's podcast about the potential benefits of having a strong personality and being outspoken about your opinion (even if it's unpopular), Jorge and I decided to jump up on our soapboxes.  We try to keep things pretty positive around here, but sometimes you just have air your grievances.  This week, we talk about the things that annoy us, especially those things that everyone else seems to like.  Don't worry: things get pretty silly and it's all in good spirit.  Sometimes it feels good to talk about what grinds your gears, whether it's a beloved character, a particular genre, or a universally-loved indie darling.  Want to get something off your chest?  Jump into the comments!


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:


- Runtime: 35 min 43 sec

- Scott's post about Final Fantasy VII's

- "What We Leave Behind," John Teti's Rogue Legacy review, via The Gameological

- Adam Jensen Does A Safety Dance! (Deus Ex: Human Revolution)

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_235_-_Love_Hate_and_Peculiar_Pet_Peeves.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:30pm PDT

Scott and I like to think we are experts on the subjects of jerks, meany-heads, curmudgeonly folk, and brutes. Yet while our opinions on assholes might be settled, the role of the creative asshole in the games industry is still hotly debated. This week on the EXP Podcast, Scott and I wonder if maybe our best game designers are naturally assholes, if their behavior is positive for the industry, and what it means to maintain a healthy public persona. We do hope you let us know your thoughts in the comments, we'll be nice, we promise.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 31 min 23 sec

- "Why you want assholes to make your video games," by Ben Kuchera via The Penny-Arcade Report

- "Assholes are assholes," by Rob Fearon via WMTCLD

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_234_-_Assessing_the_Creative_Asshole.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:14pm PDT

As Tuesday's video demonstrated, Jorge and I had a great time watching EVO 2013 last weekend. It was a pleasure seeing players at the top of their games, but it was also a great opportunity to check in on the state of fighting games and eSports (from an amateur's perspective, of course). What does the increasingly digital future have in store for fighting games? Can a balance between decentralized, DIY tournaments and corporate-organized, high-budget shows exist? What's the fighting game equivalent of the NBA's slam dunk contest? We tackle all these questions and more. As always, don't hesitate to step into the ring with your comments.

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:
- Runtime: 44 min 12 sec
- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_233_-_EVO_2013.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:51pm PDT

Our summer is only a few months long, but in The Walking Dead, apparently it lasts at least 400 days. Maybe that's just Georgia... This week on the EXP Podcast, Scott and I hunker down in our tree-fort and discuss the latest episodic DLC from Telltale! As always, we start off this podcast spoiler-free, so jump on in without hesitation. When you're done listening, do come back and let us know: whose ankle would you shoot off, mine or Scott's?

Show notes:

- Runtime: 54 min 57 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_232_-_The_Walking_Dead_400_Days_Debrief.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:50pm PDT

Nothing says "summer fun" like a bleak journey through a ruined society whose inhabitants are more deadly than the monsters that caused their original downfall!  This week, Jorge and I talk about The Last of Us. There's a lot to talk about: stealth mechanics, family dynamics, and doomsday preppers all make appearances.  As always, we'll give a spoiler warning when we dive into specific plot points.  For those of you who have faced the fungal apocalypse and lived to tell the tale, feel free to jump into the comments with your thoughts!


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:


- Runtime: 1 hr 1 min 19 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_231_-_The_Last_of_Us_Debrief.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

We live in mad times folks. Mad times! Just one week after podcasting about Microsoft's draconian DRM policies and the company does a complete one-eighty, succumbing to popular demand and economic pressure. Why the crowds largely celebrated the shocking occasion, some lamented it as well. Had Microsoft caved too quickly? Are we losing something valuable as a result? And most importantly, what do B-list celebrities think of the whole affair? Join Scott and I this week these questions and more on the EXP podcast!

Show notes:

- Runtime: 30 mins 56 secs

- "The Xbox One Just Got Way Worse, And It's Our Fault," by Kyle Wagner via Gizmodo

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_230_-_The_DRM_Moonwalk.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:26pm PDT

What is going on in this crazy world!? This week on the EXP podcast, Scott and I discuss the games and revelations coming out of E3, but since the time of recording, importance announcements have already broke! Microsoft took a lesson from countless politicians and flipped their stance on DRM. The complete reversal comes as a shock, albeit a positive one, to many gamers eager to see the company salvage what little goodwill they still had. I, for one, appreciate the bizarre times we live in.

While we don't touch on the latest news in this show, we do unpack some of the sights from E3 and finally put the event to rest. Give it a listen and let us know what you think about the games on parade and the consoles on your mind!

Show notes:

- Runtime: 41 min 59 secs

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_229_-_E3_2013_Debrief.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:30pm PDT

This week, we take a mid-week breather from all the E3 madness to talk about a subject that's actually one of the bigger features of both Microsoft and Sony's new consoles: screencasting.  What once started out as "Let's Plays" on obscure corners of the internet have now become regular events for a growing multitude of players.  Inspired by Kris Ligman's article on the origin, evolution, and struggles of the Let's Play scene, we discuss everything from intellectual property to editing techniques.  We're still pretty new to this entire scene, so we're interested to read your thoughts in the comments!


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:

- Runtime: 28 min 11 sec

- "Opinion: Let's Play crackdown is an attack on game culture," by Kris Ligman via Gamasutra

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_228_-_Game_and_Watch.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:56pm PDT

The Humble Indie Bundle 8 is in full swing, so this week we discuss some of the games we've been able to play so far. The bundle's wide range of games means we discuss everything from the competitive, skill-driven systems of Awesomenauts and Hotline Miami to the experiential, story driven environments of Proteus and Dear Esther. At the risk of sounding like an advertisement, the Humble Indie Bundle is a great buy for both economic and philosophical reasons: you pay what you want (or what you can) and you support independent, DRM-free games that also happen to be some of the more thought-provoking games on the market. Alright, enough schilling. As always, feel free to jump into the comments with your thoughts.

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 31 min 34 sec
The Humble Indie Bundle 8
- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_227_-_Humble_Bundle_8.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:48pm PDT

Curiosity screen via IGN

We have opened the cube and holy cow, Peter Molyneux was inside the whole time! But what else is inside the controversial designer's bizarre experiment? And what does cube's contents mean for the young grand-prize winner, the future players of Godus, and the games industry as a whole? Join us this week on the podcast as Scott and I search for crumbs inside the box that might give us a taste of what's to come!

Now that you Curiosity is over (well, sort of), let us know what you thought of the bizarre "game-like" thing in comments! Are you a cynic or a cubist?

Show notes:

- Runtime: 32 mins 17 secs

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_226_-_Cracking_Open_the_Cube.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:24pm PDT

We're all still trying process Microsoft's vision of the future, so why don't we take a short break and consider one of Valve's recent reveals. In a move that both Jorge and I find bizarre and terrifying, Valve is piloting Steam trading cards. While there doesn't seem to be any specific game tied to the cards themselves, the rules and rewards about obtaining, trading, and crafting cards may in fact have the potential to change the way we play and purchase games. Are you tempted by the prospect of a rare foil head crab card or do you plan on relegating your Steam cards to your digital attic, never to be touched? Let us know in the comments!

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:


- Runtime: 33 min 16 sec
Steam Trading Card FAQ
- Music by: Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_225_-_House_of_Cards.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

We thought Lucas Arts and Star Wars 1313 was our last hope for a great Star Wars game. But no. There is another. With the recent announcement that Disney will be handing over the video game licenses for Star Wars to EA, the internet has been abuzz with mixed feelings. Some are eager to see what Visceral or BioWare can do with the franchise. Others are a bit more pessimistic. This week on the podcast, Scott and I step into the proverbial "shockboxing ring" and discuss our own thoughts on the Force, old Lucas Arts games, Boba Fett, and the future of the Skywalker clan.

Show notes:

- "Saturday Soapbox: Force feeding fandom," by Dan Whitehead via Eurogamer

- Runtime: 34 mins 52 secs

- Music: "Star Wars Main Theme" and "Imperial March" by John Williams

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_224_-_A_New_Hope_for_Star_Wars.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:26pm PDT

This week, we open a gateway to the spirit realm to call forth a podcast that defies the feeble constraints our earthly plane and human minds.  "What sorcery is this?" you ask.  It is precisely that, mortal: this week we talk about magic.  Actually, we use Robert Rath's recent article on the subject to push past the usual focus on psychic missiles and black cauldrons.  Magic is a common mechanic in games, but its more sociological role is rarely portrayed.  What would it look like if magic in games was a lifestyle, rather than simply a way to roast bad guys when you're tired of swinging a sword?   As always, don't hesitate to join the conversation by suddenly materializing in the comments!


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:


- "I Hate Magic," by Robert Rath, via The Escapist

- Runtime: 28 min 25 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_223_-_Conjuring_Video_Game_Magic.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

The spring lull is upon us. Without any huge release on the immediate horizon, Scott and are using this time to visit some of the games currently taking up space in our busy calendars. From gamified exercise to eSports and beyond, Scott and I have plenty of game mechanics to both love and hate. Check out all the games listed below in the show notes and be sure to chime in with your thoughts in the comments below!

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 35 min 1 sec

FitBit

Don't Starve

Spelunky

lolesports.com

Papers Please

Monaco

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_222_-_Playtime_Check-in_2013.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:54pm PDT

This week's podcast was inspired by Katie, an intrepid reader who recently left a comment on something Jorge wrote way back in 2008 (talk about a deep cut!).  Jorge's post came at the beginning of this generation's co-op boom and Katie's response provides a good starting point to discuss the ways in which the trend has affected the way we play games.  How have different styles of collaborative gameplay distinguished themselves from one another?  What happens to in-game storytelling when another player is along for the ride?  Is the co-op trend a fad and how will it change in the coming years?  We touch on all these topics and look forward to hearing from you in the comments!


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:


- "Coop Mode," by Jorge Albor, via Experience Points (you may have heard of it)

- Runtime: 32 min 16 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_221_-_Coop_Mode_Revisited.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

Scott and I have ventured deep into Yamatai's hidden tomb and returned with a treasure trove of insight into the exciting Lara Croft reboot from Crystal Dynamics. After a painfully long, and troublesome, hype cycle, we can at last return from the island and share our thoughts on the game. Does this re-imagining of this pop-culture heroine breathe new life into the old franchise? Are quick time events back in style? Why does everyone on this island keep a diary? Join us while we discuss these questions and more! Be sure to hop into the comments below with your own thoughts on the game!

Show notes:

- Runtime: 49 min 55 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_220_-_Tomb_Raider_Debrief.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:23pm PDT

This podcast started with a single question I posed to Jorge: "If someone who has never played games came to you and asked you to show them what video games are all about, what would you show them?" It's a big question, one that may well be impossible to fully tackle, but it's something that has come up in the wake of BioShock Infinite and the discussion surrounding its violent imagery. Does the game undercut the impact of some of its themes with unnecessarily explicit or abundant scenes of violence? Is it a problem that one of the premiere examples of artistic and narrative achievement in the medium falls back on the familiar run-and-gun scenario? A growing number of folks are saying "yes" to these questions. This week, we talk about what types of games encapsulate the medium, and how we introduce them to the uninitiated.

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 35 min 19 sec
- "BioShock Infinite Is Insanely, Ridiculously Violent. It's A Real Shame," by Kirk Hamilton, via 
- "Opinion: Violence limits BioShock Infinite's audience — my wife included," by Chris Plante, via Polygon
- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_219_-_Violence_Art_and_Representative_Games.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

Almost six years after BioShock took the world by storm and forever changed our relationship to video games, the esteemed Ken Levine is back with another work of fantastical and historical fiction. At last, after several delays, BioShock Infinite is in our hands. Columbia might be in the sky, but is the story grounded? Are the systems tight? Does any of this even make sense? Join us this week as Scott and I mine the richness that is BioShock Infinite.

As we always promise with debriefs, we will give you plenty of notice before we spoil anything, so feel free to jump in, whether or not you have played the game. When you have finally seen an end to the story though, be sure to come back and leave your thoughts on the game in the comments below (and when you do, spoiler warning tags are always appreciated.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 66 mins 32 secs

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_218_-_BioShock_Infinite_Debrief.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:06pm PDT

We get it: you're busy.  Professional, familial, and personal obligations have a habit of expanding to the point where video games get crowded out.  However, all is not lost: inspired by Tina Amini's post, this week's podcast is a discussion about how to gracefully fit games into hectic schedules.  Jorge and I talk share the secrets of how we keep up with every game released (spoiler: we don't) and how to stay connected in a way that makes playing a game a pleasure rather than a burden.  The nice thing about podcasts is that you can listen to one and play a game simultaneously, so after you're done multitasking jump into the comments with your feedback!


- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes

- Find the show on Stitcher

- Here's the show's stand-alone feed

- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.

- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.


Show notes:


- Runtime: 37 min 13 sec

- "How to Balance Video Games with Real Life," by Tina Amini, via Kotaku

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_217_-_Game-Life_Balance.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

EXP Podcast #216: Hive, Board Games, and Developing AI

New technology that aims to revolutionize gaming is around the corner, yet millions of people are still happy to sit down around a table and place an old-fashioned board game. The two industries have been growing, but have they been growing closer together or farther apart? Join Scott and I this week to discuss the relationships between board games and video games, then stick around while we chat with Sean Colombo about his experience translating the game Hive to the digital world.

As always, we encourage you to leave your thoughts in the comments section and, if you've been playing any fun board games lately, let us know what they are!

Show notes:

Hive, by Blueline Studios

- Runtime: 41 min 34 sec

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_216_-_Hive_Board_Games_and_Developing_AI.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:24pm PDT

This city is afraid of me. I have seen its true face. The streets are extended gutters and the gutters are full of blood and when the drains finally scab over, all the vermin will drown. The accumulated filth of all their sex and murder will foam up about their waists and all the whores and politicians will look up and shout "Save us!"... and I'll look down and whisper "SERVER BUSY."

You guessed it: this week, we talk about the great SimCity snafu of 2013.  The technical issues surrounding the game are fairly well documented, but they raise a variety of broader questions: What does the future look like for single player games?  Is the line between design flaw and technical issue getting blurry?  Should a game review be amended if the game itself changes?  All this (plus some zombie-related speculation) on this week's podcast.  As always, feel free to jump into the comments with your thoughts!

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- "Requiring Online for Single Player," by Raph Koster
- "
Why this isn't a one-star SimCity review," by Tom Chick
- "SimCity Review: Engineering Addiction," by Russ Pits, via Polygon
- Runtime: 34 min 24 sec
- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_215_-_SimCity.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

Oh David Cage, will you always be a source of contention and fascinating design discussions? If my tea leaves tell me anything, it's that the creative mind behind Heavy Rain and the upcoming Beyond: Two Souls will always be stirring the pot, trying to craft something for the games industry we have never seen before. It might taste terrible, but at least it fuels some interesting conversations.

This week on the EXP Podcast, inspired by an excellent article by James Hawkins, Scott and I revisit Heavy Rain and explore the idea of the unreliable narrator. We touch upon several games in our chat, including our podcast favorite (can you guess what it is?). If you have examples of unreliable narrators in games, share them with us in the comments below and let us know how you felt they pulled off the difficult feat. Also, be sure to check out Hawkins' original article in the show notes as well as the "scene in question" below.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 36 min 48 sec

- "(Not) Seeing Is (Not) Believing", by James Hawkins via Bit Creature

- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_214_-_Heavy_Rain_and_Unreliable_Narrators.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:21pm PDT

Bust out your tin foil hats, because you're being watched.  Of course, you probably already knew that; achievement logs aren't all that hard to find, are they?  There's no doubt that we have more data about how we play games than ever before, but what does this mean for game reviews?  Are we due for a New York Times/Tesla controversy?  This week, inspired by Sam Machovech's article, we talk about what it means to review a game in an environment where your opinions and your actions can disagree.

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 32 min 22 sec

- "The Critic and the Cloud," by Sam Machovech, via Unwinnable
- The New York Times' responds to questions about their Tesla review
- KnobFeel: Reviews of receiver knobs
- Music by: Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_213_-_Data_Driven_Reviews.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

The PlayStation 4 was announced! OMG! But hey, the new console is still a long way from release and we have games to play now. This week on the podcast, Scott and I discuss the games currently on our playlist. From the over-the-top Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance  to Legendary, Marvel's marvelous deck-building card game, we browse the games a catalog of games. If you have played any of them, do let us know in the comments below and let us know what you have been playing as well!

Show notes:

- Runtime: 39 min 25 sec

- Music by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_212_-_Springtime_Playlist.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:15pm PDT

When it comes to conversations, especially between three talkative people, Twitter just doesn't cut it.  Therefore, when Mattie Brice, Jorge, and I started trading tweets about the merits of difficulty in games, we knew it was time to change venues.  This week, we're excited to have Mattie on the show to talk about the meaning behind the challenges games offer.  We cover everything from Super Hexagon to Pokemon, and even throw in some parallels to BDSM to spice things up (Pro tip: don't Google BDSM+Pokemon…unless you're into that).  As always, thanks for listening, and feel free to jump into the comments with your thoughts!

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- Mattie Brice's website
- Runtime: 52 min 39 sec

- Music by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_211_-_Meeting_the_Challenge_with_Mattie.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

America's most widely celebrated holiday, the Superbowl, has come and gone. While all of us over here in the Bay Area are mourning, Scott and I have our minds tuned to video games - well, sort of. Specifically, inspired by an article from Tim Rogers, we're discussing the similarities between American Football and Final Fantasy Tactics. Is Tom Brady a White Mage or a Black Mage? And what's a safety called in JRPGs? Join us this week on the EXP Podcast while we chat about fandom, e-sports, and more. As always, share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to check out Tim's original article in the show notes!

Show notes:

- Runtime: 34 mins 13 secs

- "Football: The Review," by Tim Rogers via Kotaku

- "The Chris Johnson Problem," by Chuck Klosterman via Grantland

- The slowest bicycle race you will ever watch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cL1lXDNSJQ

- Music by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_210_-_Gaming_Football.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:06pm PDT

There is a sub-genre of point-and-click adventures with a huge fan-base. Escape the Room puzzles, as the name implies, fill confined spaces with puzzles that hold the secrets of escape. Glyphs might be hidden in couches, parts of a clock could be hidden in a potted plant. From cars, to closets, to art spaces in Japan town, Escape the Room puzzles create a unique experience by hiding mystery behind the seemingly mundane, all in close proximity. Join this week on the podcast while Scott, myself, and a few guests, explore the design and appreciation of room escape games.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 1 hour 7 mins 12 secs

Submachine Series by Mateusz Skutnik.

Real Escape Game is produced by SCRAP Entertainment

- Music by The Underscore OrkestraKevin MacLeod, and Latché Swing.

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_209_-The_Great_Escape.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:53pm PDT

Scott and I have had "insider conversations" with one Mr. Businessman, which ultimately proved fruitless. Instead, we have our own conversation about the upcoming console cycle. Where is all the hype for the next release? Is there anything we should be excited for? What are you excited for?

Show notes:

- Runtime: 30 mins 59 secs

- Music by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_208_-_Confronting_the_Next_Console_Cycle.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:10pm PDT

Remember when we asked you about your favorite things of 2012?  Well, you all delivered!  This week, we formally give 2012 a stylish send-off by talking with old friends, listening to new voices, and discussing some great reader submissions.  We want to give a huge thank you to everyone who contributed by talking with us, sending in an audio clip, or simply dropping us a line via email or in the comments.  2012 may be over, but that doesn't mean it's gone, so feel free to jump into the comments with your favorite things from last year.

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 1 hr 40 min 48 sec

- Music by:
 - Blue Ducks
 - Broke for Free
 - Patrick Lee

Extra special thanks to:

- Christian Fratta
- David Carlton
- Gus Mastrapa
- Jacob Clark
- Jeremy Sear
- Kris Ligman
- Mads Kristensen
- Malachi Lakey
- Michael Abbott
- Michael Chadwick
- Mitch Krpata
- Patrick Molloy
- Phillip Wong

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_207_-_Favorite_things_2012.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT

Spec Ops: The Line made a surprisingly large splash in the critical games sphere considering its trouble development and relatively low set of expectations. Critical Distance gathered up a huge collection of the best writings on the game, which you can find right here. Also, Brendan Keogh wrote a book about it! With themes that attempt to deconstruct both American military violence and video game violence, there is plenty of depth to explore in the latest debrief. Of course if you have played the game yourself, do let us know what you think of it in the comments below!

Show notes:

- Runtime: 38 min 53 sec

- Music by The Black Angels and Deep Purple via the Spec Ops: The Line licensed soundtrack.\

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_206_-_Spec_Ops_Debrief.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:59pm PDT

I had some extra time during the holiday break, so I decided to take deep dive into my backlog with two of the most popular franchises of this console generation: Assassin's Creed and Mass Effect.  As a teaser, I'll say that I'm only planning on finishing one of the two...

I'm extremely late to the party, but I just couldn't keep my thoughts to myself.  I sprung the topic (as well as the terrible idea of calling it a "Quicktime 'Cast") on Jorge and we ended up talking about both series' legacies.  Feel free to jump into the comments with your thoughts!

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes
- Find the show on Stitcher
- Here's the show's stand-alone feed
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking here. Or, right-click and select "save as link" to download the show in MP3 format.
- Subscribe to this podcast and EXP's written content with the RSS link on the right.

Show notes:

- Runtime: 37 min 34 sec

- Music by Broke for Free

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_205_-_QTC_AC2.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:00am PDT