The Experience Points Podcast
A weekly video game podcast from the co-writers of ExperiencePoints.net
EXP Podcast #58: The 2009 Year-end Extravaganza
As 2009 draws to a close, it's time to take a step back and reflect on the games we played over the year.  Being the rebels that we are, Jorge and I are even letting pre-2009 games get in on all the GOTY action played numerous games this past year that were not even released in 2009.  Instead of abandoning them to the sands of time, we decided to do a super-sized show that highlights both our favorite 2009 titles as well as our favorite gaming experiences from the past calendar year (release dates be damned!).

As always, feel free to offer your assessment on the year and share your top gaming moments from 2009.  Thanks to everyone who visited the site over the past year; without you we'd just be yelling at the screen.  Have a great New Year, and we'll see you in 2010!

Some discussion starters:

- First thing's first: What were your favorite 2009 titles?  Which games are we missing out on?

- Regardless of release date, which games hooked you over the past year?  Did you find a hidden gem in your back catalog, or are you still pouring hours into a game like Roller Coaster Tycoon?

- We didn't have enough time to touch on this in the podcast, but what were your favorite gaming trends or surprises from 2009?  What are you looking forward to in 2010? 

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 49 min 19 sec
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_58_GOTY_09.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:43am PDT

EXP Podcast #57: Celebrities and Exploitation The innards of the videogame industry are dark, mysterious, and just a little bit icky. According to a recent article by Leigh Alexander, not all is merry for our game developers this holiday season. Some people who have put in a lot of work are being ignored, by publishers and gamers alike. Maybe, as Joshua Lin describes, we need more videogame celebrities as advocates and developer representatives. Join Scott and I while we discuss labor disputes, the Joss Whedon appeal, developer secrecy, and the hidden ailments of the games industry..

Show notes:

- Run time: 29 min 4933 sec
- They worked on the game you played but didn't get credit, by Leigh Alexander via Kotaku
- We Need "Celebrities", by Joshua Lin via Gamasutra
- Sometimes, the Spy Games are Too Much, by Nels Anderson via Above49
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_57_-_Celebrities_and_Exploitation.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 10:37pm PDT

EXP Podcast #56: New Mario Mania
Every so often, the fall's harvest yields an extra-special crop, a crop in which fungus is the bounty rather than the blight.  New Super Mario Bros. Wii is out and provoking unusually disparate reactions.  In order to share our thoughts on the game, Jorge and I have called a truce on throwing each other into lava pits for just long enough to record a podcast.  We discuss our impressions, the madness that is multiplayer Mario, as well as the contemporary relevance of Mario's game design.  Feel free to triple-jump into the comments with your thoughts.  We promise we won't throw any koopa shells at you, just remember we never said anything about Bob-ombs...

On a related note, I found this video of a big band performing the Super Mario Bros. theme song.  It even has lyrics!

Some discussion starters:

- For those of you who have played the game, what do you think?  For those of you who haven't, does a side-scrolling Mario appeal to you?

- One of the most surprising things about NSMBW's multiplayer mode was its ability to foster both cooperative and competitive play.  Can you think of any other games that have tapped into this dynamic?

- Should Mario adopt modern gaming conventions such as character classes or more forgiving difficulty?  Can a newcomer find as much enjoyment in this game as an experienced player?

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 30 min 33 sec
- Mitch Krpata's review, via The Phoenix
- To get a taste of the hilarity that is the multiplayer, check out Giant Bomb's review
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_56_-_New_Mario.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:00pm PDT

EXP Podcast #55: The Making of a Memorable Character What makes Mario such a memorable character? Is it that sweet mustache? Those flattering overalls? Could it be his trademark 'woohoo'? Or is his appeal coincidental? How would Faith from Mirror's Edge measure up? These topics are on our minds thanks to a fascinating article by Andrew Vanden Bossche discussing game design and its influence on memorable characters. This week on the EXP Podcast, join Scott and I while we discuss ass kicking, those gendered voices in your ear, first-person hugs, and the art of impressive character design.

Show notes:

- Run time: 28 min 34 sec
- "Memorable Game Characters, Mirror's Edge and Picture Books" by Andrew Vanden Bossche, via Gamasutra
- Music provided by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_55_-_The_Making_of_a_Memorable_Character.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:04pm PDT

EXP Podcast #54: Following Xbox, Friending PlayStation
It's amazing (and frightening, depending on your viewpoint) how quickly social networking websites have become part of our daily lives.  In 2004, who would have thought that [The] Facebook would be keeping track of their video game accomplishments?  In 2006, Twitter asked the world "What are you doing?" and now we can answer its nagging inquiry by replying: "I'm updating you on my Xbox."  As Web 2.0 snakes its tendrils into our game consoles, we discuss our initial impressions of the features and exchange some ideas about the ramifications of adding our game-playing selves to the Internet Hive Mind.  Seeing as how the explosion of social networking has been crucial to this site, I'll stop teasing the hand that feeds us and invite you all to jump in with your thoughts in the comments.

Some discussion starters:

- Have you activated the social networking functions on your consoles yet?  If so, are you enjoying the experience?  If not, what stops you from doing so?

- What effects will social network integration have on player habits?

- What does the future hold for the relationship between sites like Twitter, the game industry, and its culture?  Is this the beginning of a huge change or simply a passing fad?

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 26 min 13 sec
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_54_social_networks.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:15pm PDT

EXP Podcast #53: Thanksgiving Leftovers Continuing our holiday theme, Scott and I reached into our 'epic' spreadsheet of podcast topics to share with your our seasonal leftovers. From dark Disney characters to videogame weapons, these six stories are a little old, but still have a lot of flavor. Join us while we discuss persistent world narcissism, games of the decade, in-game trust, and old-school medallions. As always, you can find all these stories in the show notes.

Some discussion starters:

- How can lies and mistrust be implemented in a videogame?
- How do you feel about collector's editions? How do you flaunt your 'geek' pride?
- Epic Mickey: How much do you trust Warren Spector really?
- What are the most influential games of the decade?
- How do we implement persistent worlds in the most painless way possible?

Show notes:

- Run time: 30 min 36 sec
- "Games of the Decade: An Introduction" by Mitch Krpata, via Insult Swordfighting
- "Design of a Decade" by Steve Gaynor, via Fullbright
- Epic Mickey details via Game Informer
- Modern Warfare 2 Prestige Edition via Joystiq
- "Dear persistent worlds: you make me feel bad" by Andrew, via Charge Shot!!!
- "Inside the Video Game Weapon Replica Business" by Mike Fahey, via Kotaku
- "Fear and Mistrust in Videogames" by Scott Sharkey, via 1Up
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_53_-_Thanksgiving_Leftovers.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:02pm PDT

EXP Podcast #52: The Difficulty with DLC "Thank you Mario. But our princess is in another castle!  I'll show you the way...for only $5!"  This scenario might be an exaggerated nightmare, but the world of DLC is becoming an increasingly complicated one.  The recently released Dragon Age: Origins launched with day-one premium content, some of which is actually offered by in-game NPCs.  Unsurprisingly, many gamers vehemently disapproved of this and set out to form angry Internet mobs.  This week, we discuss Sean "Elysium" Sands' plea for gamers to re-evaluate the merits of premium downloadable content.  He makes a thought-provoking argument, suggesting that DLC may be the price we pay in order to perpetuate the existence of gaming as we know it.  Do his ominous predictions have you reaching for your wallet?  We invite you to jump in with your thoughts, free of charge.

Some discussion starters:

- What kind of DLC have you purchased?  Do you have specific personal rules about what you buy?

- Do you believe that one game's DLC can subsidize other games, or will it just yield more DLC for that game?

- Is there an ethical component to DLC from an artistic or democratic standpoint?

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 30 min 52 sec
- "A Dirge for the Sinking Ship," by Sean "Elysium" Sands
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_52_DLC.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:43pm PDT

EXP Podcast #51: Sizing Up Handhelds Big chubby news recently came out of Nintendo: Their next DS version is imminent, and it is a much larger beast than we are used to. The DSi LL (DSi XL for the western market), is a whopper compared to its older sibling. Its screen is fully 93% larger than the original DSi. Take that poor eye sight. This week, Scott and I tackle this behemoth and discuss the current state of handhelds, what we've been playing on our itty-bitty screens, fat fingers, developing for limitations, and the elderly market. You can find more information, including nice photographs, in our show notes, and we encourage you to leave thoughts of any size in the comments section.

Some discussion starters:

- Aside from portability, what has attracted you most to handheld games?
- What limitations of the current handheld market are potentially empowering?
- What games have you been playing on a small scale, and what best use the smaller hardware?

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run Time: 27 mins 21 secs
- Nintendo Officially reveals the DSi LL, via Destructoid
- Music by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_51_-_Sizing_Up_Handhelds.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:30pm PDT

EXP Podcast #50: In Search of Secrets
Invisible coin blocks, hidden passages within a level, and obscure collectible trinkets are just a few of the conventions often turn games into digital Easter egg hunts.  However, in a time when large numbers of gamers never even bother to finish a game's main story mode, the reason behind the near-ubiquitous inclusion of in-game secrets is a mystery unto itself.  This week, we use Andrew Vanden Bossche's recent GameSetWatch column as a starting point to discuss secrecy in games.  How do deceitful children, James Bond, and avian harassment factor into the conversation?  You're one click away from finding out.  As always, feel free to weigh in with your thoughts in the comments: do you crave concealed cash, or are you simply sick of sleuthing?

Some discussion starters:

- What sets your favorite examples of secrets apart from your least favorite examples?

- Are secrets that affect gameplay any more or less ethical than those that do not?

- In light of the Internet, what is the future of secrecy in games?

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 31 min 37 sec
- "Design Diversions: 'It’s A Secret To Everyone'," by Andrew Vanden Bossche, via GamaSetWatch
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_50_Secrets.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:52pm PDT

EXP Podcast #49: Next Gen Genetics Our console generation is getting old, and there doesn't seem to be a new model in our immediate future. So what is going to happen to those "Next Gen" games we are perpetually looking forward to? According to LukePlunkett of Kotaku , we might be short on innovative wonders for awhile. This week, Scott and I delve into Plunkett's somewhat controversial piece. Join us while we discuss generational shifts, ideal zombie numbers, creative spaces, sea mammals, and evolution of game design. As always, we love to hear your thoughts in our email or the comments section below. Check out the show notes for Luke's original article; it is well worth reading.

Discussion Starters:

- What makes a truly "next gen" game? Or is this a frivolous distinction?
- What advancements most open up a creative space for developers to implement bold innovations?
- Is the evolution of games better characterized by fundamentally different eras or gradual iterations on common ideas?

Show notes:

- Run time: 28 min 11 sec
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_48_-_Next_Gen_Genetics.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:19pm PDT

EXP Podcast #48: Exploiting Bobby Kotick
He has been called a heartless, devilish, carpetbagger.  He is unapologetic about his mission to take the fun out of making video games.  He has inspired neo-folk protest songs.  He is Bobby Kotick, CEO of Activision.  This week, we discuss one of gaming's most infamous characters and his influence on the medium.  We cover capitalism, sensational journalism, and some light conspiracy theory in an attempt to fight against the culture "of skepticism and pessimism and fear," perpetuated by everyone's favorite villain.

Some discussion starters:

- How does Kotick's business philosophy affect your perception of Activision-Blizzard and the titles it publishes?  To what extent are your more casually-interested friends and family aware of the business side of games?

- Which (if any) company executives make a positive impression on you?  How do they this?

- To what extent is Kotick simply playing role for the public?  Is this even plausible?

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 27 min 50 sec
- "Why We Love to Hate Activision - And Might Be Wrong," by Leigh Alexander, published on Kotaku
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_48_Kotick.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:35pm PDT

EXP Podcast #47: Groping the Television Last month, previous EXP podcast guest Nels Anderson made an interesting claim: videogames have far more in common with television than film. Truly the Citizen Kane of comparisons. Scott and I watch a lot of television, but we're no experts. So this week we thought it appropriate to discuss these two mediums with another guest. Joining us this week is JustinKeverne of Groping The Elephant. We are honored to have such an intelligent blogger and designer in our midst. Justin provides plenty of insight to go around and one of those charming British accents to serenade our listeners.

Join us while we discuss format breaks, self-created narratives, short attention spans, and television adaptations. Our hosting triad and the broad subject matter has made this podcast a little longer than normal. Don't worry, it is time well spent. You'll findNels's original article in the show notes, along with supplemental articles we mention in the show and links to Justin's own work. As always, we'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below.
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_47_-_Groping_The_Television.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:31pm PDT

EXP Podcast #46: Fall Sales, Speculation, and Sweets The Fall release season is upon us, bringing with it its annual gaming bounty.  While it may be humanly impossible for us to play all of the new releases, nothing is stopping us from trying to guess what other people will play.  This week, Jorge and I channel our inner Michael Pachter and enter into a gentleman's agreement: We each came up with a list of what we believe will be the top ten best-selling games released between October and December.  When February rolls around, we will take revisit our predictions and score them based on their accuracy.

The winner will enjoy a (hopefully) tasty dessert of their choosing...made by the loser!  Food, games, and gambling: What could be better?  Below are our respective picks.  As always, feel free to jump in with your choices in comments section.  What are your predictions?  While we can't promise dessert for anyone that beats us (or can we...?), the victory will undoubtedly be far sweeter than anything made by mere mortals.

Jorge's List:

1.  Modern Warfare 2
2.  New Super Mario Bros. Wii
3.  Wii Fit Plus
4.  Band Hero
5.  Uncharted 2
6.  Left 4 Dead 2
7.  Assassins Creed 2
8.  Lego Indiana Jones 2
9.  DJ Hero
10.  Dragon Age

Scott's List:

1.  Wii Fit Plus
2.  Modern Warfare 2
3.  New Super Mario Bros Wii
4.  Lego Indiana Jones 2
5.  Dragon Age
6.  Lego Rock Band
7.  Assassin's Creed 2
8.  Left 4 Dead 2
9.  The Legend of Zelda: The Spirit Tracks
10.  Brutal Legend

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 28 min 11 sec
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_46_fall_wager.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:49pm PDT

EXP Podcast #45: A Real Downer You've put in hours into a game, the final boss is just on the horizon. While the end might be nigh, it probably isn't unpredictable. Game endings tend to be repetitive success stories, lacking the ambiguous or downer endings readily available in other mediums. Menveer Heir, of Raven Software and Design Rampage, inspires us again on this weeks podcast with his post lamenting the lack of depressing games. Join Scott and I while we discuss player agency, dead avatars, Roman aggression, and authorial control. As always, leave your thoughts in the comments section below and we'll shower you with praise.

BE WARNED! This podcast contains potentially significant spoilers for about twelve games and two movies. These are listed in the show notes, along with Manveer's original article. If you are sensitive to spoilers and hear a game title, go ahead and skip ahead a few seconds.

Some discussion starters:

- Confession time. What downer game endings have tugged at your heart strings?
- Does character failure equate to player failure? What about failure and downer endings in non-character driven games like Civilization?
- So you've got a sad story to tell. How do you pull it off with out upsetting the all-powerful player?


Show notes:

- "Life is a Series of Down Endings," by Manveer Heir via Design Rampage
- Run time: 29 min 3 sec
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
- Show includes spoilers for: Prince of Persia, Shadow of the Colossus, Chronotrigger, Passage, Halo 3, Call of Juarez, Call of Duty 4, Eternal Darkness, Far Cry 2, Final Fantasy X, Bioshock, Braid, Braveheart, and Marley and Me.
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_45_-_A_Real_Downer.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:35pm PDT

Saddle up pardners: Today, you're riding out west with the EXP Gang.  OK, I'll stop.  This week, we discuss the recently released Western-FPS Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood.  We cover everything from co-op, to cover mechanics, to Confederates.  Although the game had some shortcomings, it ended up provoking a fruitful discussion.  Feel free to mosey on over to the comments section to share your thoughts.

Some discussion starters:

- What are your favorite things about Western film and literature?  What games (Western or otherwise) evoke similar feelings? 

- How can the thematic topics seen in many Westerns (explorations of civilization and the wilderness, violence and the law, morality versus barbarism, etc.) best be incorporated into games?

- Are we getting to a point where co-op, much like competitive multiplayer, is becoming a standard feature that we expect from games?

- For those of you who played the game: What are your overall impressions? 

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 39 min 14 sec
- Music provided by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_44_Juarez.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:00pm PDT

EXP Podcast #43: Tact and Dead Celebrities  How we depict figures from our cultural history and actual history is our entertainment media is fascinating. We tend to overly praise and ridicule these individuals, particularly celebrities. Deciding which depiction of a cultural figure is too offensive or disrespectful is no easy task. The appearance is Kurt Cobain as a playable character in Guitar Hero 5 runs this border. Giving more options to players is great, but is allowing a deceased celebrity, particularly one who died in a tragic way, to sing ABBA too much?

This week, Scott and I discuss this Cobain fiasco and the philosophy behind open access to potentially disrespectful material, and we don't stop there. Our topics include duck hats, Johnny Cash, mash-up culture, and Frederick Douglas. As always, we love to hear your thoughts, feel free to leave them in the comments section below.
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_43_-_Tact_and_Dead_Celebrities.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:20pm PDT

EXP Podcast #42: Title Bouts There is nothing like a little friendly competition to get a heated discussion going. In fact, according to Leigh Alexander's recent interview with Capcom senior director of communications Chris Kramer, rival development teams may lament their bygone days of battle. Join us this week while Scott and I discuss the Mortal Kombat/Street Fighter debate, the pros and cons of exaggerated competition, and some of the more memorable video game rivalries.

As always, you can find the original article in the show notes. We would also love to hear your thoughts on the subject, as well as memorable rivalries we may have missed, which you can leave in the comments section below.

Some discussion starters:

- Have you ever found yourself picking sides on a video game rivalry? Did this enhance your experience with the game or the gaming community?

- Do you think video game rivalries are healthy for the industry? Is there a genre or particular game that needs a boisterous competitor?

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 25 min 1 sec
- Interview, "Capcom 'Would Welcome' Return Of Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat Brand Rivalry" by Leigh Alexander via Gamasutra
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_42_-_Title_Bouts.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:06pm PDT

EXP Podcast: PAX 2009, Day 3 The final day of PAX 2009 has come to an end. Though saddened by the thought of an empty convention, eerily devoid of digital revelry, we are filled to the brim with satisfaction. The last day of PAX was as busy as ever. Panels included such interesting topics as the future of videogames, gamer culture, and depictions of sex and serious topics. The excellent panelists gave us loads to talk about on this episode, but we also discuss games from the show floor and out feelings towards the unique PAX event over all. We invite you to leave your thoughts in the comments section and join us next year for PAX 2010!

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 33 min 16 sec
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_-_PAX_2009_Day_3.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:02am PDT

EXP Podcast: PAX 2009, Day 2 It's Day 2 of PAX and Experience Points is going strong! Today we sat in on on a variety of panels that covered everything from sex, to gender, to story telling methods in games. We also were lucky enough to witness the spectacle that is the Omegathon, a PAX-wide video game tournament featuring attendees. In this episode, we recap our thoughts on the panels and re-live the glory of the Omeganauts. As always, we love your comments, so feel free to jump in with your thoughts.

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 29 min 10 sec
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_-_PAX_09_day_2.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:42pm PDT

EXP Podcast: PAX 2009, Day 1 Experience Points is in Seattle for PAX 2009! The days are unbelievably packed with all things gaming related. Much of our first day was spent in the various panels, so this podcast serves as a sort of debriefing session. Feel free to to leave your thoughts or questions in the comments, and if you are in Seattle, let us know so that we can stop by and say "Hi!"

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 29 min 08 sec
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_-_Pax_09_day_1.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:16am PDT

EXP Podcast #41: Survey Said...Depression? The mainstream acceptance of video games is a relatively recent phenomenon, as is the scientific study of how games effect players.  When studies are conducted, it is important to examine them closely, as they can influence political decisions, social perceptions, and future research trends.  This week, we explore a study looking at gamers' physical and mental health.  We discuss some of the study's shortcomings and anticipate the ways in which future research can benefit the larger gaming community.  As always, we welcome your input so feel free to read through the articles and weigh-in with your comments.

Some discussion starters:

- What is the best way to organize the gaming community in a study?  Number of hours gaming?  Relative importance of gaming in someone's life?  Can we find any way to define what constitutes a "Video-Game" player?

- How do people utilize games to deal with problems in their life?  Are games something that attract a certain mental or physical profile?  Do games cause ill health or does ill health lead people to play games?

- What can games teach us in terms of our lifestyles?  How do games (even those that are not "serious") improve our lives?

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 28 min 21 sec
- The Two Articles from the American Journal of Preventative Medicine can be found here, in the August 2009 press release section.  They are in PDF format.
- "Study: Average gamer is 35, fat and bummed," via MSNBC.com
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_41_survey_says.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

EXP Podcast #40: Missed Connections Remember the days when the only way to connect with your fellow gamers was to be in the same room?  Whether it was showing off your custom Excitebike track or networking a group of PCs in your parents' living room, connecting with other players was decidedly local experience.  Today, on-line multiplayer allows us to play simultaneously with dozens of people in as many countries...as long as the connection is stable.  This week, inspired by articles from Chris Dahlen and Phill Cameron, we discuss the wonderful world of routers, ports, lag, and the culture surrounding on-line gaming.  Feel free to reach through your firewall and leave a comment with your thoughts on the past, present, and future of inter-networked. 

Some discussion starters:

- What responsibility do developers and publishers have in terms of connection issues and standardization?  Would you pay more for increased stability?

- What role does a game's community play in alleviating or normalizing connection issues?

- Could an asynchronous multiplayer system enjoy the same kind of success that real-time multiplayer does?

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 30 min 14 sec
- "Trying to Make a Connection," by Phill Cameron, via Game Set Watch
- "Will We Ever Game Against Mars?" by Chris Dahlen, via Edge
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_40_connections.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:00pm PDT

EXP Podcast #39: Gritty Realities When it comes to videogame art design, is reality over-rated? In an industry constantly creating and mastering new technologies, game creators have always wanted to show off. For many developers, showing off means aiming for the bountiful land beyond the uncanny valley. For Sean "Elysium" Sands of Gamers With Jobs, the "Gritty Realism" aesthetic has lost its appeal. This week, inspired by Sean's article "Breaking the Mirror", we discuss realistic sweat, humble art design, aging graphics, and the phantom of realism. You can find the article in the show notes and, as always, we love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below.

Some discussion starters:

- Do games that show off their visual realism appeal to a wider audience?
- What is the most excellent looking game you have ever played? Did it fit with the gameplay and narrative?
- Which games age best visually?

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 25 min 19 sec
- "Breaking the Mirror" by Sean Sands, via Gamers With Job
- Music by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_39_-_Gritty_Realities.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:44pm PDT

EXP Podcast #38: Gamers in Motion Let's be honest: During our early console gaming days, how many of us would fling our controller upward in a desperate attempt to make Mario jump just a little bit higher?  We learned to shed those earnest, yet useless actions, but with the rise of motion controls and quirky peripherals, it seems that those old habits have been revived.  This week, inspired by an article from Bob Mackey, we discuss the strengths and weaknesses of motion control as it stands today.  Although we are less than three years into the mainstream adoption of motion control, the phenomenon has made an impact in game design, player accessibility, and market strategy.  As always, feel free to Wii-waggle your way into the conversation with your comments.

Some discussion starters:

- Which games exemplify your favorite forms of motion control and which subject you to your least favorite?
- Are motion controls capable of the kind of complex actions found in button/key-exclusive control schemes, or does motion control necessitate simplicity?
- What will the future of motion control look like?  Will motion control become a kind of genre, will it be integrated into traditional games, or is it just a fad?

To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 30 min 14 sec
- "Cutting the Cord," by Bob Mackey, via 1up.com
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_38_motionfinal.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:02pm PDT

EXP Podcast #37: Guns & Wizard Hats Peanut-Butter & Jelly, Chicken & Waffles, both ingenious combinations! So why not Guns & Wizard Hats? Well I might have a few reasons. This week, Scott and I gnaw on an interesting article by Wired's Chris Kohler regarding Ray Muzyka's and Cliff Bleszinski's RPG/Shooter portents. We touch on such topics as big-ass swords, stat tracking, and the troublesome word that is "genre." As always, you'll find the original article in the sow notes. Also, your thought are always fascinating; you should leave them in the comments section below.


Some discussion starters:

- What risks do developers running adding genre elements from RPGs into Shooters?
- Are their some genre elements that are incompatible?
- What RPG elements would you add to existing genres, if any?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 29 min 57 sec
- "BioWare's Muzyka: Line RPGs, Shooters Blurring" by Chris Kohler, via Wired
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcat_37_-_Guns__Wizard_Hats.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:47pm PDT

EXP Podcast #36: Another Brick in the Wall What happens when our universe and the digital ones we find in games begin to overlap?  Inspired by Steven Conway's excellent piece about re-examining "the fourth wall" in the context of video games, we take a look at the strengths and weaknesses of playing a self-aware game.  Much is discussed: we navigate the labyrinthlabyrnth that is the Metal Gear universe, explore the hidden meaning of Tingle, and dredge the depths of Rapture in search of answers.  Help us break the fourth wall of our site by jumping in with your thoughts in the comments!

Some discussion starters:

- What games successfully play with the idea of the fourth wall?  Do they employ subtle "winks" or explicit self awareness?
- Are games that "extend the magic circle" to encompass the player the ideal way to play?  How does the rise of motion control effect this?
- How does the role of authorship impact the idea of the fourth wall?  Is it necessary for a designer to extend the magic circle, or is it up to players to dictate their level of involvement in the game's fiction?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 35 min 47 sec
- "A Circular Wall? Reformulating the Fourth Wall for Video Games," by Steven Conway, via Gamasutra
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_36_-_Another_Brick_in_the_Wall.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:54pm PDT

EXP Podcast #35: Anger Management I am inundated with excellent games, happy as a clam. But trouble has been brewing for some gamers who fear the titles they love will be marred by sneaky developers and their zany "improvement" schemes. Some have gone so far as to organize an online defense force, including fans of Left 4 Dead, Starcraft, and Diablo. Maybe they have some reasonable complaints and should be heard. Or maybe they are entitled good-for-nothings with too much time on their hands. This week, Scott and I tackle 'nerd rage'. Join us while we discuss whiners, community organizing, unicorn art and what pisses us off. As always, your comments are appreciated.

Some discussion starters:

- Should gamers, such as the Left 4 Dead 2 boycotters, bother organizing against perceived grievances by developers/publishers? Where does the sense of entitlement come from?
- What responsibility do developers/publishers have to their consumers, fan base, and online community? What are the best tactics for diffusing hostility when it arises? Is acquiescing harmful?
- What sparks your nerd rage?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 27 min 56 sec
- Left 4 Dead 2 Boycott Group
- Starcraft 2 LAN petition
-Diablo 3 art petition
- Adam Sessler's response to L4D Boycott
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_35_-_Anger_Management.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:23pm PDT

EXP Podcast #34: Murder, She Played How many videogame characters have died, by your hands or another character's? Now how many of those actually meant something? There is something unique about murder in videogames in contrast to killing. This week, Scott and I once again spring board off the murderous ideas of Christian Nutt of Gamasutra. Join us while we discuss Shakespeare, revenge, and wanton killing. Christian's original article can be found in the show notes. As always, we encourage you to chime in by leaving your comments below.

Some discussion starters:

- Does an excess of killing in videogames dampen the effect of murder?
- Do certain genre's lend themselves better to murder stories?
- Are there specific murder stories that you would like to see in a videogame format or believe would translate well?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 28 min 12 sec
- "Can Murder and Games Meaningfully Meet?" by Christian Nutt, via Gamasutra
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_34_-_Murder_She_Gamed.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:43pm PDT

EXP Podcast #33: The Decision Dilemma Last month, outspoken game designers Clint Hocking and Manveer Heir held a little cross-blog discussion regarding the design and implementation of ethical choices in video games. We are accustomed to making decisions about weapons, strategies, and the color of our Sim hairstyles, but meaningful choices with moral weight are relatively rare. Even when faced with potentially tough moral dilemmas, the current nature of video games may dilute the effect. Heir suggests in-game permanence (which has created various interesting experiments), while Hocking eschews authorial influence in favor of ludic solutions.

It is tough topic, so we decided to we decided to call for backup. This week, we have are honored to welcome Nels Anderson, author of the excellent Above49 blog and gameplay programmer for Hot Head Games. Join us while we discuss permanence, harvesting children, Choose-Your-Own-Adventures, readability, and the future of moral choices in games. With three of us at the table, we made this podcast slightly longer than normal, but extra time is well spent on a very complicated and contentious subject. We encourage you to read the Hocking's and Heir's original articles in the show notes, along with supplementary pieces we discuss in the show. As always, feel free to weigh in with your thoughts in the comments.

Some discussion starters:

- Have you ever faced a difficult in-game discussion that stemmed from moral concerns? If so, did you translate this into simply mechanical outcomes? Did you approach is role-playing as the protagonist?
- If your in-game decisions were permanent, would they be more meaningful? What techniques add add weight to a decision?
- To what extent is in-game decision making impacted by real-world experiences?  Do you carry your personal set of ethics into a game?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time:
41 min 13 sec
- "Ethical Decision Making," by Clint Hocking, via Click Nothing
- "Designing Ethical Dillemas," by Manveer Heir via Design Rampage
- "Ludonarrative Dissonance in Bioshock," by Clint Hocking
- Rescuing vs. Harvesting Little Sisters Graph, via Escapist Magazine
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_33_Nels.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:12pm PDT

EXP Podcast #32: Wimping Out Trying to make a game simultaneously accessible and challenging while also retaining a cogent plot is a daunting task.  Inspired by Julian "rabbit" Murdoch's piece about his son's gaming habits and a recent Gamasutra post by Leigh Alexander, we discuss the nebulous subject of challenge in games.  Using the articles to focus the discussion, we explore the necessity of challenge, different ways of testing players' skills, and how we view the evolution of game difficulty.  Such a hard topic means we need your help to do it justice, so feel free to join the discussion in the comments.

Some discussion starters:

- Do you see a trajectory in terms of the games' difficulties over the years?  If so, how and why have they changed?
- Have you ever considered quitting a game due to its difficulty, but decided instead to fight through it?  Was this rewarding?
- To what extent do players and designers share the burden of accessibility?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 27 min 04 sec
- "Wimp," by Julian "rabbit" Murdoch, via Gamers With Jobs
- "Can Nintendo Take 'Accessibility' too Far?" by Leigh Alexander, via Gamasutra
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_32_Wimping_Out.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:00pm PDT

EXP Podcast #31: Throwing in the Towel Sometimes when the going gets tough, the less-than-tough just quit. At least that's what Sean "Elysium" Sands did when confronted with some ridiculously skilled players of Demigod. We here at EXP have immense respect for the talented writers of Gamers With Jobs, so we would never ridicule Sands' excellent confession in his Personality Flaws piece. On the contrary, this week Scott and I spring board off of the article to discuss unhealthy competition, victory through attrition, player tantrums and cooperative design in competitive games. As always, your thoughts are welcome in the comments.

Some discussion starters:
- Has competition ever soured your gaming experience? What about a need to keep up with other players?
- Is there competitive meta-gaming in gamer culture? Do you think this is destructive or healthy?
- What does a competitive game look like if it's designed to encourage cooperation and mutual learning?


To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 30 min 27 sec
- "Personality Flaws," by Sean 'Elysium' Sands of Gamers With Jobs
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_31_-_Throwing_in_the_Towel.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:03pm PDT

EXP Podcast #30: The Father of All Podcasts With Father's Day coming up this weekend, we decided to dedicate a podcast to exploring the role father characters in video games.  Starting with an eclectic list of various game dads, we examine them in terms of their gameplay functions, back-stories, and their narrative importance.  A number of surprising patterns crop up that link even the most dissimilar-seeming game fathers.  We finish by theorizing about how father characters will continue to develop in forthcoming games.  As always, feel free to share your thoughts about anything we mention in the podcast, as well as your analysis of any game dads we passed over.

Some discussion starters:

- Who are your favorite game dads? 

- How is fatherhood portrayed in games?  What makes dads important to the gaming experience in terms of story and gameplay?

- Has your perception of fatherhood in games changed over the years?  Will the portrayal of fathers in games change as more gamers have children?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 31 min 04 sec
- The Story of Being Homeless in Sims 3: "http://aliceandkev.wordpress.com/"
- "The Absent Dad," by Michael Abbott of The Brainy Gamer
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_30_Fathers.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:01pm PDT

EXP Podcast #29: The Epic Aesthetic E3 has come and gone, but the over-the-top presentations of upcoming games lingers. Huge screens depicting carnage and head-ripping made epic enthusiasts from around the world spasm with excitement like an epileptic at ananime convention. Which brings us to an article from last month by Chris Remo, Gamasutra Editor At Large and Idle Thumbs entrepreneur, asking if the videogame industry "over-eggs" the epic. I think we've got enough examples of gun-swords and gut-busting work this discussion into a soapy lather. Join us this week while Scott and I ponder chainsaws, crescendos,back flips and fun with Milo. As always, we encourage you to leave your own thoughts in the comments below.

Some discussion starters:

- Is the videogame industry producing a glut of epic titles? Is it the brunt of guilt on consumers or designers?
- What are games do you think restrain themselves yet remain epic?
- Do the titles presented at E3, and motion controls, effect the future of epic?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 27 min 44 sec
- Do Video Games Over-Egg The epic? by Chris Remo via Gamasutra
- Music by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_29_-_The_Epic_Aesthetic.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:00pm PDT

EXP Podcast #28: Power to the Players? As we all learned from Uncle Ben, "With great power, comes great responsibility."  When Paragon Studios gave players the tools to create their own quests in City of Heroes, it soon became a case study of what happens when people discover a new-found power.  Upon gaining the power to design quests, some players began to exploit the system for maximum experience points with the minimum amount of work.  This kicked up a storm amongst the City of Heroes players, as well as in the larger video game community.  This week, we use Nels Anderson's post on the subject as focal point for discussing the role and regulation of player-created content.  As always, we're interested to hear your experiences, so feel free to create some "reader-generated" content in the comments.

Some discussion starters:

- How should player generated content be regulated?  Should it?  By whom?
- Are games with player-created content fated to be dominated by an elite class of creators?  Is democratization necessary or ideal?
- Why do players exploit games?  Where is the line between optimization and exploitation drawn?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 26 min 56 sec
- Nels Anderson's post, via Above49.ca: "About that Player-Generated Content..."
- Nate Ralph's post, via Wired: "Handed Keys to Kingdom, Gamers Race to Bottom"
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_28.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:19pm PDT

EXP Podcast #27: A Game's Travel Our bags are in the trunk, Teenage Wasteland is playing on the stereo, and our coffee stained road map is on the dash: On this podcast, we're hittin' the road. This week, we draw our discussion from prolific and esteemed games writer/pseudonym L.B. Jeffries and his excellent article on Popmatters. Early last month, Jeffries discussed his thoughts on travel in videogames and raised some interesting questions. This week, Scott and I tag along with our own journey through videogame travel, hitting such topics as basic math, warp tubes, and boredom. As always, we encourage you to share your own tales of navigation in the comments section below.

Some discussion starters:

- Do you ever use out-of-game distractions during in-game travel?
- Are games allowed to be boring? Not just calm, or unexciting, but actually boring?
- Do you use landmarks, or any other tricks, to help make sense of space while traveling?
- Which games capture your definition of travel best?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

-Run time: 25 min and 53 sec
- Travel in Video Games, via Popmatters
-Music by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_27_-_A_Games_Journey.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:07pm PDT

EXP Podcast #26: Spring Cleaning! Every week, we add to a massive list of notable news, analysis, and opinion pieces related to video games, knowing full well that most of them will never make the show. We figured it was time to sort through some of the backlog for any gems that may have been passed over and fashion them into an auditory smorgasbord.

The topics vary widely, and range from art design, memory and history, dating, and even death. Be sure to check out the show notes for links to the articles. As always, feel free to weigh in on the discussion in the comments with your thoughts on the stories, or with links to some of the stories you've enjoyed over the past months.

Some discussion starters:

-How do you keep track of your past gaming experiences?
-Have you ever learned about history through gaming?
-What is the perfect "date game?" Does such a thing exist?
-Which games do you admire for their artistry?
-Do you have any life/death stories that took place in an on-line space?
-Which recent gaming articles have you enjoyed recently?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

-Run time: 31 min and 53 sec
-"Altars," by Lara "KaterinLHC" Crigger, via Gamers With Jobs
-"Can Games Handle History," by Luke Plunkett, via Kotaku
-"The Dating Game," by Wendy Despain, via The Escapist
-"Artist Wants More Diverse Game Graphics, Says Developers Should 'Believe More in Games,'" by Steven Totilo, via MTV Multiplayer
-"Death Leaves Online Lives in Limbo," by Peter Svensson, via The Associated Press, posted on SFGate.com
-Music by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_26.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:35pm PDT

EXP Podcast #25: It's About Time Is this already episode twenty-five? My how time flies! Which is exactly the topic of the day. This week on the EXP Podcast, Scott and I stumble upon a clever idea from Reid Kimball, Gamasutra Expert Blogger and level designer for Buzz Monkey Software. Taking a cue from cinema, Reid suggests game designers implement the potentially cheesy but versatile tool that is the montage. By creating an interactive montage, the passage of time is expressed without a non-interactive cut scene or jarring jump in time. Join us while we discuss flashbacks, lumberjacks, the mighty Chronos, and how games and gamers play with time itself. Of course you can find Kimball's article in the show notes below. As always, we would love to have you share your own temporal musings in the comments section.

Some discussion starters:

- What games express the passage of time in satisfactory ways? Does their interactive, or the lack thereof, improve the experience?
- Do you enjoy playing games under a time constraint? Does this give greater meaning to the passage of time in-game?
- Are there characters or franchises you would like to see age in real-time? Do you think this would add to the immersion?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 26 min 48 sec
- Reid Kimball's article, via Gamasutra
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_25_-_Its_About_Time.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:13pm PDT

EXP Podcast #24: Cultured Gaming This week, Inspired by Daniel Johnson's article about games and culture, we wade in to the fascinating-yet-nebulous realm of culture in video games.  After a brief discussion of how to define the term, we think about the cultural influences found in video games.  Whether it is a game's content, the way it was produced, or its capacity to illustrate the societies in which it exists, games carry meaning about everyone involved in the process.  As this site is largely about examining the culture that both flows through and emanates from games, we found plenty to talk about in this article.  We hope to hear your thoughts in the comments!

Some discussion starters:

- What games have you found particularly interesting in terms of the way they represented a specific culture (either positively or negatively)?  Who is most qualified to handle cultural topics in video games?
- When does a culture become stifling?  How do development techniques, business practices, social mores, and player expectation impact this?
- What do video games say about our current societies?  What games from the past do you find particularly illustrative of cultural zeitgeists?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 28 min 50 sec
- Daniel Johnson's Article, via GameSetWatch: "'Lingua Franca' – The Place Of Games In Culture"
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_24.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:39pm PDT

EXP Podcast #23: Gears of War Roundup Well yippee-kay-yay, this week on the EXP Podcast we focus on big burly men with chainsaw-guns. Developed by Epic Games, the Gears of War franchise has found immense success amongst a variety of gamers. With a collection of books , a movie in the works, and an inevitable third game, Gears of War just seems to stick in our minds for some reason. Earlier this week L.B. Jeffries of Popmatters drew connections between GoW2 and the Iliad , the talented editors/contributors of Critical Distance chatted about GoW2 and ludonarrative dissonnance (which Scott and I discuss briefly on this podcast), and I wrote my own Sensationalist piece on the game Monday.

Scott and I finished both games in the series on cooperative mode, much like Resident Evil 5. Though not as controversial as RE5, we still plumb the subterranean depths of Gears of War and find some "sweet" analysis of the coop experience, over-the-top storytelling, and how to make giant worms even more epic. Please share your own thoughts in the comments section, we love to hear them.

Some discussion starters:
- Do you think the Gears of War franchise is representative of triple-A games at large? Has Gears become cliche?
- Do you think Epic is wasting their time incorporating a serious story on top of the tone set by gameplay?
- Somewhat referring to last week's podcast, would you show a videogame outsider Gears of War to draw them into the medium?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 24 min 59 sec
- Music by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_23.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:11pm PDT

EXP Podcast #22: Games for the Uninitiated If you read this site, you are probably one of two kinds of people:

1.  The kind that loves video games or...
2.  The kind that is subjected to rants about why we love video games (i.e. non-gamer friends and family).

This week, we were inspired by Owen Good's article about explaining the allure of video games to non-gamers.  We use his discussion of trying to decide which games to demonstrate for his grandfather as starting point to discuss the tricky business of sharing our favorite games to people that probably have never heard of them.  It is a situation in which many of us have found ourselves, so please feel free to share your stories in the comments!

Some discussion starters:

- Have you ever tried to explain or demonstrate your gaming interests to a non-gamer?  How successful were you?
- What is the most effective way to draw someone in to gaming?  Finding a game that ties in with their interests?  Showing them something completely new?  Demonstrating graphical realism?  Showing them inventive story-telling?
- Which games would you show to a non-gamer and why?  What would you want to communicate to them?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 30 min 20 sec
- Owen Good's Article, via Kotaku: "What Would You Show to Someone Who's Never Seen a Game"
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_22.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:15pm PDT

EXP Podcast #21: Perpetual War Games Last week, Konami announced Six Days in Fallujah, a game set during the tumultuous 2004 batle in Fallujah, Iraq, developed by Atomic Games. Nothing stirs up controversy like a videogame adaptation set in a current war zone (except a large scoop of gratuitous nudity). With war veterans on both side of the fence, it is not so easy to work out how videogames should address warfare and current events. Yet Scott and I try to do just that anyway! Join us while we discuss PR insults, mixing games and social messages, and limitations of fun.

At the bottom of the page, you'll find our delightful show notes. In them you'll find the Wall Street Journal's and LA Times' articles concerning
Six Days in Fallujah, we encourage you to read them, particular for soldiers' opinions. Also, Chris Breckon of Shacknews had a closer look at the actual game, the product seems unsatisfying, but his thoughts on the subject are insightful. As always, we look forward to reading your thoughts in the comments section.

Some discussion starters:
- Is there a market for games about current events, particularly about controversial subjects?
- Can a game intend to make players uncomfortable yet still be fun, or does this defeat the purpose?
- Have any games you've played addressed serious and currently significant subjects?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 24 min 59 sec
- Wall Street Journal, Iraq, The Videogame
- Los Angeles Times, Konami announcement update
- Chris Breckon of Shacknews, Six Days in Fallujah, One Small Problem
- Oligarchy, a political game about the petroleum era.
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_21_-_Final.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:31pm PDT

EXP Podcast #20: Resident Evil 5 Debriefing Grab you shotgun and your thinking caps, because this week, we are devoting the podcast to a thorough discussion of Resident Evil 5!  We put in some marathon couch co-op sessions, analyzing everything from the control scheme to the game's character development.  As we discuss in the show, Resident Evil 5 quickly became a controversial game in a number of respects.  The game has sparked debates over everything from game design to social responsibility, so we take some extra time to delve into this surprisingly complicated game.  We encourage everyone to read the show notes for some background on the ethnicity discussion, as some very smart folks have calmly, patiently, and rationally explained the issues behind the game's imagery.  These are some charged topics, but as always, we welcome feedback and discussions.  Feel free to send us an email or post your thoughts in the comments.

Some discussion starters:

- When does a control scheme move from being a "style" to simply being outdated?  If you have played the game, do you think RE5 crosses this line?
- Resident Evil has always featured arbitrary, yet constant rules.  To what extent do you appreciate "game-eyness" in your video games?  What do you think about the "if-then" gameplay we discussed?
- What kind of co-op games most effectively make use of two-player teamwork: do structured, explicitly-designed two player challenges or more free-form, player initiated cooperation make for better cooperation?
- What are games' obligations towards social responsibility?  How can games address complicated issues like race, class, gender, and politics?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 50 min 16 sec
- N'Gai Croal's original comments on the RE5 Trailer: "Newsweek’s N’Gai Croal On The ‘Resident Evil 5′ Trailer: ‘This Imagery Has A History"
- Shawn Elliot: "Primal Fear: Haunted by Ghosts of Predators Past"
- Shawn Elliot: "Racial Imagery in RE5 Trailer?"
- Evan Narcisse on Crispy Gamer: "Thought/Process: More on Resident Evil 5 and Uncomfortable Echoes"
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_20.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:06pm PDT

EXP Podcast #19: The OnLive Myth The gaming internet sites were humming with excitement during the Game Developers Conference last week in sunny San Francisco. Upon one particular announcement, a mix of gleeful tittering and cries of consternation were audible across the bay and a widespread internet discussion soon followed. The product announced was OnLive, a gaming service that purports to do away with hardware concerns by streaming your games over high-speed internet. This week, Scott and I discuss OnLive as it relates to the curative properties of snake oil, urban ISP ruffians, scam artists, and the future of consumer participation in game consumption.

Since we are drawing on a wider collection of news sources than normal, we will link some of the more interesting pieces in the show notes along with OnLives demonstration video. If you are curious about OnLive further, allow us to google that for you. Comments are encouraged via email on the right or in the comments section below. We look forward to hearing your thoughts.



Since we are drawing a wider collection of news sources than normal, we will link some of the more interesting pieces in the show notes along with OnLives demonstration video. If you are curious about OnLive further, allow us to google that for you. Comments are encouraged via email on the right or in the comments section below. We look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Some discussion starters:

- Do you think the time is right for a service like OnLive? Are people ready for another console competitor?
- Do you think the infrastructure exists for OnLive?
- Would you partake in this service or do you think the growing pains of expanding their content is too much?


To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 28 min 14 sec
- OnLive website with video.
- John Spinale talks to The Escapist about OnLive.
- Richard Leadbetter, of Erogamer, explains why OnLive can't possible work.
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_19.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:50pm PDT

EXP Podcast #18: A Gamer's Best Friend? Animals have a long history in video games, and continue to play important parts in the most recent titles.  This week, we happened upon an article detailing the story of a high school student offended by the treatment of dogs in Call of Duty: World at War.  Her efforts to petition Activision to change its ways got us thinking about how and why games are criticized, as well as the larger role of animals in games.  Although we have a bit of fun at the article's expense, it is a useful tool for examining how people react to violent games, how different forms of violence are interpreted, and how animals fit in to the medium as whole.  As always, we love hearing your responses to both the story and the podcast, so feel free to send us an email or jump in on the comments!

Some discussion starters:

- What memorable animal appearances can you think of?  What role did the animals play in the game?
- While we were not exactly optimistic about Lucci's chances of getting Activision's attention, her efforts raise a good point: how should people display their disagreement with publishers and developers?  Petitions?  Essays?  Response games (like the PETA example)?  Voting with one's wallet?
- To what degree does the incorporation of animals succeed in games, and how would you like to see it improved?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 25 min 54 sec
- Mike Fahey's (Kotaku) article and response: "Students Protest Call Of Duty Dog Killing"
- The original article from the Lowell Sun: "NDA students protest video game's depiction of cruelty to animals"
- Cooking Mama and PETA's response
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_18.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:12pm PDT

EXP Podcast #17: The "B" All and End All It seems like most people have their favorite examples of the "so bad it's good" class of film. Low-budget, occasionally self-aware, "B movies" often form strong followings of people who love them for their effort and entertainment value. This week, we discuss a recent article by Christian Nutt of Gamasutra that examines the obstacles and efforts in the creation of "B" video games. We invite you to join our conversation about chainsaw arms, "Sweet" dialogue, and NPH by commenting on this post. As always, you can find the original article in the show notes for your enjoyment.

Some discussion starters:

- Have you ever enjoyed a game you knew was poorly designed or implemented? Would you consider this a "B" videogame?
- Is it possible to have "B" game mechanics or must "B" games rely on thematic implementation?
- Can you think of any games that you considered "A" level when they were released, that now seem campy or "B" level?


To listen to the podcast:

- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- 27min 18sec
- "Can The Industry Make a 'B Game'?" by Christian Nutt, via Gamasutra
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_17.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:36pm PDT

EXP Podcast #16: Corralling the Community We all know by now that the stereotype of the solitary, basement-dwelling video game nerd is the stuff of fiction.  Gaming communities have always existed, but the rise of the Internet has allowed for increasingly complex and direct communication between players and developers.  This week, we use Leigh Alexander's piece on Eve Online to start a conversation about community management in modern games.  We take a look at Brandon Boyer's article about Infinity Ward's Twitter-based suggestion box for the next Call of Duty: Modern Warfare game.  Of course, no discussion about community would be complete without your feedback, so please don't hesitate to jump in via comments or email!

Some discussion starters:

-How involved are you in large scale community games like Eve Online?  What drew you to the community and why do you think it was successful? 
-Players: How (if at all) do you interact with game developers?  Do you post on message boards, send emails, or just vote with you wallet?  Developers: What are the most effective ways of gathering feedback?
-In today's world of downloadable content and game patches, is there a danger of developers over-reacting to complaints from a vocal minority of players?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

-Run time: 27 min 56 sec
-Leigh Alexander's article about Eve Online: "Interview: CCP's Tinney On How EVE Keeps Growing"
-Brandon Boyer's article about Infinity Ward's use of Twitter: "Call of Duty creators Infinity Ward launch their Twitter suggestion box "
-Steven Totilo's article about Gabe Newell's DICE 2009 talk: "DICE 2009: The Very Different Gaming World Gabe Newell Wants"
-Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_16.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:01pm PDT

EXP Podcast #15: Noby Noby Men Keita Takahashi of Namco Bandai, creator of Katamari Damacy, has once again dipped his nimble fingers into his mystical bucket of genius and pulled out Noby Noby Boy, one of the most bizarre games I have ever played. Mike Schiller of PopMatters bravely took it upon himself to review this oddity. This week, Scott and I use Schiller's piece to discuss our own thoughts on Noby Noby Boy, Metagames, "play," and the sexuality of interstellar worm-like beings. I highly encourage you to watch some YouTube videos of the game and read the PopMatters review, both of which you can find in the shownotes. As always, we would love you to post your comments, no matter how bizarre they may be.

Some discussion starters:
- What are your thoughts on making your own in-game challenges? Have you any memorable accomplishments?
- Do metagames enhance or diminish a gaming experience?
- Do you think Noby Noby Boy is representative of a wider PS3 audience?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

-Run time: 27 min 4 sec
- Some Noby Noby Boy gameplay.
- Noby Noby Boy and the New PS3 Paradigm by Mike Schiller of PopMatters.
-Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_podcast_15.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:57pm PDT

EXP Podcast #14: Controlling the Periphery The video game world is buzzing with the release of Street Fighter IV.  It is a franchise that helped usher a generation of gamers into the fighting genre, and arrives greeted by a wave of emotionally-charged expectations.  Further complicating any attempts at objective analysis further is the fact that Street Fighter is rooted in the arcade tradition.  With the game's release comes peripherals (by the way, it looks like Jorge was right: MadCatz is the pricey one!) that capture the arcade feeling.  Mitch Krpata of the site Insult Swordfighting raises the important question of how to analyze games that rely (either implicitly or explicitly) on peripherals.  We trace a brief history of non-controller pad input devices and muse on their effects on the games that use them.  As always, feel free to jump in with your experiences and thoughts.

Some discussion starters:

-Should Street Fighter IV be reviewed a specific way (either arcade stick or control pad)? 
-How much focus should the hardware have in game analysis?
-What do you think of the "fairness" argument: Should games have a standardized control scheme to ensure a level playing field?  Should developers ensure that third party peripherals do not undermine this?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

-Run time: 28 min 19 sec
-Mitch Krpata's article: "A Peripheral Concern "
-Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_14.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:27pm PDT

EXP Podcast #13: At Game's End Hello readers and listeners.  This week Scott and I branch off of neat panel discussion Stephen Totilo held with Ken Levine of 2k Boston and Todd Howard of Bethesda Softworks.  Each panelist was asked to comment on their game endings, Bioshock and Fallout 3 respectively.  We take their comments and run with them, discussing our thoughts on cut scenes, interactive conclusions, and more.  As always, we encourage you to take a look at the original article and footage in the show notes.  Comments are appreciated and we've got some discussion starters just below if you need some momentary inspiration.

Some discussion starters:
- Do traditional game endings feel like a payoff? Have you ever cheated and watched an ending online?
- What do you think the future holds for videogame endings? Do you think there is an easier or better way to end games?
- What have been your favorite and least favorite videogame endings

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

-Run time: 31 min 12 sec
- Original MTV Multiplayer article with footage from Ken Levine and Todd Howard Comic-Con panel.
-Music provided by Brad Sucks


Direct download: EXP_Podcast_13.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:49pm PDT

EXP Podcast #12: The Therapy Game This week will see the release of thatgamecompany's unique new title, Flower. In an interview with MTV Multiplayer, Jenova Chen, the co-creator of thatgamecompany, explained that he hoped that Flower will feel "like therapy" to players. This got us thinking about the ability of games to act as stress relievers and how both the mechanical and narrative techniques in games affect our mindsets. We also talk about the traditional notions of why some games are considered relaxing, and we explore the soothing possibilities of games that normally would not be considered calming. We invite you to relax, take a deep breath, and then jump in with your thoughts!
Some discussion starters:
-What games, if any, do you use as "therapy?" Do they fall into one genre, or are there any you think are "surprisingly" calming? -Is there a contradiction between a therapeutic game and one in which the player partakes in destructive in-game behaviors? -What kinds of themes and imagery do you think of when you here about a "therapeutic game?" -Does a genre of meditative or Zen gaming need to exist, or can it be encompassed within larger categories?
To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed. - Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:
-Run time: 25 min 43 sec
-Patrick Klepek's article with excerpts from Jenova Chen: "‘Flower’ Should Make You Feel Better About Yourself, Argues Creator"
-Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_12.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:17pm PDT

EXP Podcast #11: Interactive Edutainment Be they breaking a sweat playing a mean game of Wii Tennis or squeezing their "mind grapes" learning a foreign language, students are incorporating videogames into their educational curriculum. This week on the EXP Podcast, Scott and I take out our chalkboard, calculators and pen protectors to talk about videogames in the classroom. We branch off two Kotaku articles available for your perusal in the show notes. Let us know your thoughts on the subject in the comments section and free to answer the questions available below.

Questions of Interest:
- How have you used videogames as learning devices, if at all?
- What do you think are the limitations of videogames in the classroom?
- Is there anything you learned from videogames you still use, or could use, today?

Show Notes:

-Run time: 26 min 18 sec
-Kotaku article: Wii in PE
-Kotaku article: Learning English on the DS
-Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_11.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:52pm PDT

EXP Podcast #10: The Art of Being Sony Post recording note: We chose this story and recorded the podcast before we heard some unfortunate news.  It truly speaks to our economy's sad state of affairs when talented people who produce thoughtful, entertaining writing are let go.  Ben, we hope to see you on the other side of tunnel soon!

This week, we flirt with the fires of console fanboyism to talk about the state of the Playstation 3.  We were inspired by Ben Fritz's opinion piece in which he contemplated whether the PS3 had an "artsy" image that was hurting its sales.  We range from a discussion on the console's physical appearance to its popular perception and corporate philosophy.  "Artsy" is a vague term to be sure, so everything we say is definitely open for discussion, and we look forward to hearing your thoughts as well.  Check out the show notes for the article that spurred the discussion, along with a bonus link to a window into the weird and wacky world that is Kaz Hirai's mind!

Some discussion starters:

-Do you get some kind of  "vibe" from specific gaming platforms?  If so, how does this affect your playing habits?
-How big of a role does marketing play when it comes to game sales? 
-To what forces do you attribute Sony's reversal of fortune in the console market?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

-Run time: 27 min 53 sec
-Ben Fritz's article: "Is Sony too artsy for its own good?"
-Some Kaz Hirai gems
-Music provided by Brad SucksPost recording note: We chose this story and recorded the podcast before we heard some unfortunate news.  It truly speaks to our economy's sad state of affairs when talented people who produce thoughtful, entertaining writing are let go.  Ben, we hope to see you on the other side of tunnel soon!

This week, we flirt with the fires of console fanboyism to talk about the state of the Playstation 3.  We were inspired by Ben Fritz's opinion piece in which he contemplated whether the PS3 had an "artsy" image that was hurting its sales.  We range from a discussion on the console's physical appearance to its popular perception and corporate philosophy.  "Artsy" is a vague term to be sure, so everything we say is definitely open for discussion, and we look forward to hearing your thoughts as well.  Check out the show notes for the article that spurred the discussion, along with a bonus link to a window into the weird and wacky world that is Kaz Hirai's mind!

Some discussion starters:

-Do you get some kind of  "vibe" from specific gaming platforms?  If so, how does this affect your playing habits?
-How big of a role does marketing play when it comes to game sales? 
-To what forces do you attribute Sony's reversal of fortune in the console market?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

-Run time: 27 min 53 sec
-Ben Fritz's article: "Is Sony too artsy for its own good?"
-Some Kaz Hirai gems
-Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_10.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 8:55pm PDT

EXP Podcast #9: A Bloody Mess Some of those smart minds over at the University of Rochester got together and published a little study for us to talk about this week. Those psychologists, tinkerers of the brain I call them, have learned gore and gamers don't necessarily mix. The original article can be found in the show notes for your enjoyment. Your input on the subject is always appreciated. Feel free to answer some of the questions we have for your below if you need some inspiration.


Some discussion starters:
- How often do you notice gore when playing a game?
- When is violence and gore excessive?
- Would you miss the gore if taken out of traditionally violent games?

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run Time: 27mins 10sec
- The article on the University of Rochester study.
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: Gore.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:51pm PDT

EXP Podcast #8: Patent Pending This week, an intrepid Internet explorer happened upon some mysterious patents filed by Nintendo.  The documents lay out a new system for delivering hints in a game, as well as a mode of play in which the player watches the game unfold on its own until they choose to join in.  This raises numerous issues in regards to game difficulty, the accessibility of modern video games, and defining exactly it even means to "play a game."  As always, check out the show notes for links to the stories and references, and feel free to offer your speculations on how (or if) this patent will be utilized.

Some discussion starters:
- Do you think this system would create new gamers, or simply irritate current gamers?
- How much challenge do you like in a game?  Does it depend on what kind of game it is, or is there a specific way of implementing challenge that is particularly appealing?
- How much interaction do we need with a game in order for it to still qualify as a "game?"

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:

- Run time: 26 mins 13 sec
- The Kotaku article describing Nintendo's patent
- Some developers comment on the news
- Corvus Elrod's excellent exploration of the definition of a "game"
- Music provided by Brad Sucks
Direct download: EXP_Podcast_8.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:30pm PDT

EXP Podcast #7: Patch Notes The first 2009 EXP Podcast is upon us. This week we were inspired by news about a patch coming out for PixelJunk Eden mid-January that will, among other things, lower the game's difficulty. The original story is in the show notes for the curious listeners, but we mostly use it as a jumping off point to discuss patches in general, the idea of an ever-changing medium and Star Wars.

Some discussion starters:
- Should patches be mandatory?
- Is a patched game a different game?
- How do we talk about a frequently updated title?
- How much do you hate George Lucas for ruining Star Wars? (Only slightly kidding.)

To listen to the podcast:
- Subscribe to the EXP Podcast via iTunes here. Additionally, here is the stand-alone feed.
- Listen to the podcast in your browser by left-clicking the title. 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:
 
- Run time: 28mins 1sec
- PixelJunk Eden patch coming soon.
- Music provided by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_7.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:08pm PDT