We routinely talk about the impressive content within games, but, in today's market, the way in which we procure that content is equally striking.  Digital distribution is changing long-standing traditions regarding how games are sold and played: an increasing number of both games and players are leaving discs and cartridges behind in favor of ones and zeroes.  Inspired by Evan Stubbs' article on the future of digital distribution, we discuss some the potential benefits and drawbacks of what seems to be the inevitable move towards completely digital gaming.  Whether you feel that this change will usher in a new era of economical convenience or a technological apocalyspe, feel free sound off in the comments.  

Some discussion starters:

- What are your habits regarding digitally distributed games?  Is there a certain reason you do or do not download games you could get on discs?

- How do you feel about pricing structures based on "segments" rather than as a function of time?  What kinds of privacy issues arise?

- How soon, if ever, do you think games will go 100% digital?

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 49 sec

- "The Future of Digital Distribution," by Evan Stubbs, via RedKingsDream

- Music provided by Brad Sucks

Put on your robes and wizard hats folks: it's time to do some role-playing.  Whether you are playing as a knight, a space marine, or a rogue treasure hunter, video games give the player an opportunity to assume an identity different from their own.  However, the increasing complexity ofRPGs as well as the inclusion of sophisticated characters in non-RPG games can lead to a conflict between the player and the game: What happens when the player wants to do something that their character would never dream of? Grayson Davis from Beeps and Boops raised this question, inspiring us to explore some possible answers.  This is a complicated issue and one that is likely highly influenced by personal taste, so feel free to jump into the comments with your thoughts.
 
Some discussion starters:

- When playing a game, do you role-play your character?  How does this affect your play experience?

- What is the balance between providing individual experiences based on specific characters versus ensuring players see all the game has to offer?

- Are there certain games that you feel walk this line particularly well?  Are there games in which role-playing actually decreases your enjoyment?

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 32 sec
- "The Player's Role," by Grayson Davis, via Beeps and Boops

- Music provided by Brad Sucks