EXP Podcast #123: First in Line

When everyone else is nestled snugly in bed, the most die-hard fans are battling the elements, sleep deprivation, and mall security in hopes of being the first to procure a new console or game.  This week, the tale of a man named Isaiah-Triforce Johnson came to our attention.  After waiting in line for a week, he was one of the first Americans to buy a Nintendo 3DS.  His quest got us thinking about the strange rituals surrounding console launches and game releases.  It's a surprisingly broad topic, and we cover everything from the "first!" impulse to frostbite.  As always, we'd love to hear your thoughts, as well as any of your release night stories in the comments!

Some discussion starters:

- Have you ever stood in line for the release of a console or game?  What was your motivation?
- Why is it important to play something immediately upon release?  Is it even important?
- Should developers incorporate release day bonuses into games?

To listen to the podcast:

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

Show notes:

- Run time: 33 min 36 sec
- "Waiting for Nintendot: One Man's Quest to Buy First 3DS," by Jason Schreier, via Wired
- "Queer Characters: BioShock," by VorpalBunny, a.k.a. Denis Farr, via GayGamer
- Music provided byBrad Sucks