The Experience Points Podcast
A weekly video game podcast from the co-writers of ExperiencePoints.net
EXP Podcast #79: Laborious Longevity

Sometimes games are just too hard or too large. Is this a common problem and is it hurting the industry? John Davison of GamePro thinks so. Maybe this explains why so many people never finish their own games. Guest host David Carlton of Malvasia Bianca joins us this week to offer his insights on lengthy games, the joys and pains of difficulty, adult gaming habits, and cyclical gaming trends. You can find the original article in the show notes, as well as links to more of David Carlton's work.
- What long or hard games have you stuck with and why?


Show notes:

- Run time: 37 min 34 sec
- "Too Big and Too Hard, " by John Davison via GamePro
- Malvasia Bianca, home of David Carlton
- The Vintage Game Club
- The Video Games and Human Values Initiative
- Playdom
- Music provided by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_79_-_Laborious_Longevity.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 9:54pm PST

EXP Podcast #78: Finishing the Fight with Halo 3

As you may remember, Jorge and I are playing through the Halo series and making podcasts along the way.  Released in 2007, Halo 3 was one of the biggest gaming events of the decade and I was quite excited to see how the game has aged.  Having wrapped up the Master Chief trilogy, we spend the podcast discussing Halo's plot and extended universe, the game's influential design choices, and what the future holds for the franchise as well as Bungie.  Halo's structure facilitates unique experiences for everyone who plays it, so feel free to jump in with your thoughts in the comments.

 

Some discussion starters:

 

- Halo 3 seemed to emphasize its story more than the first two installments.  How significantly does the in-game narrative, as well as the surrounding universe and marketing campaign, impact your enjoyment of the game?

- While Halo's combat has always had a distinct feel, each game has introduced subtle tweaks.  Of the original trilogy, which game did you enjoy the most?

- After Halo 3, were you still interested in continuing the franchise?  What are your thoughts on Bungie distancing themselves from the franchise and the rumors of their ambitious new project?

 

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: 34 min 26 sec

- Music provided by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_78_halo_3.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:51pm PST

EXP Podcast #77: Earning The Badge

The cub scouts, the younger sect of Boy Scouts of America, have recently added a new honorable achievement for children to attain: the videogame merit badge. Technically, it is a belt loop or an academic pin. Regardless, to claim the glory of such a trophy, kids have to accomplish a few tasks. Join us this week as Scott and I discuss the ESRB, consumer education, math with Marcus Fenix, and what it takes to become a young videogame guru. You can find a link to the scouts official requirements in the show notes.


Show notes:

- Run time: 25 min 22 sec
- The cub scout video game award and requirements
- Music provided by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_77_-_Earning_The_Badge.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:26pm PST

EXP Podcast #76: The Future of Games: In 3-D!

Have recent video games left you feeling a little flat?  Fear not: as we speak, companies are getting ready to venture in to your living room via the third dimension.  This week, we use Gus Mastrapa's article about the current 3-D gaming scene to discuss what may be the next big visual leap in games.  Topics include everything from the practical costs of the technology to its implications for game design.  Regardless of whether you already own a custom pair of 3-D goggles or if you still rock a black-and-white tube-TV, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.

 

Some discussion starters:

- What kind of barrier to entry does 3-D face for the average gamer?  Is there a certain price it must reach or a certain feature it must have before you make the jump?

- What do you think the relationship will be between 3-D and other technologies such as motion control and head tracking?

- How would you like to see 3-D implemented in games (if at all)?  Are there certain existing games that you feel would benefit from the added depth?

- How does something like the Nintendo DS (or the forthcoming "3DS") impact your thoughts on TV and monitor-based 3-D rigs?

 

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 42 sec

- "Why 3-D Gaming's Future is Still Blurry," by Gus Mastrapa

- Music provided by Brad Sucks

Direct download: EXP_Podcast_76_3D_future.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:01pm PST