PC talk system recommendations blog Facebook YouTube articles and guides links bio
game screensots rabb1t's ramblings podcast email
rabb1t's ramblings podcast page

Welcome to the page for "rabb1t's ramblings", my podcast. This page will house all of the links and feed for my podcast. It may also include any show notes, details not on the podcast itself, and external links. Check in whenever there is a podcast if you want to see the sekret infos! Hope you enjoy them!

rabb1t's ramblings is a podcast of gaming and geekery. Discussion about pen and paper gaming, video gaming, gaming hardware, and sometimes movie or TV shows.

rabb1t's ramblings features music by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License.

Facebook

My Amazon.com Wish List

If you'd like to make any comments or have any questions for any topic discussed in a podcast, feel free to post them on my Facebook page under that podcast's announcement.

Click the icon above to get the URL to subscribe to the RSS feed.

If you'd like to help feed teh bunnah for his work on the podcast that'd be super nice. You can make a donation through PayPal or purchase something at Amazon.

The podcast is listed on iTunes at the link to the right. Click the picture to be taken to the page to subscribe. You can manually subscribe to the podcast in iTunes by clicking "File", "Subscribe to Podcast", and then copy the link here (or the rss icon link above) and paste it into that box.

Archive 3 - podcasts 101-150

Podcast 150: Thief in black
March 1, 2014 - 35:40

- Thief (PC, Xbox 360/Xbox One) (1:10)
- Spacebase DF-9 (alpha) (PC, Mac, Linux) (16:12)
- Logitech G700s (20:52)

(1:10) Thief is a restart to the popular series of the same name. The story revolves around Garrett, who is a thief by trade, but he is quickly pulled into a web of intrigue by cooperating with someone who is trying to rid the city of the plague. While I've only played about an hour or two so far, I'd say this is a must buy for fans of the original series, though new fans may find it a bit too slow and story heavy compared to other modern games.

(16:12) Spacebase DF-9 is a base building game. Your goal is to make a space station and keep everyone as happy and productive as you can. While not officially released, if you pre-order / back the project you can get early alpha access and start playing with what is there.

(20:52) In the last bit I ramble about my new Logitech G700s mouse, as well as mouse grip design overall.

Show notes

Games; Spacebase DF-9 (PC, Mac, Linux), Thief (PC/Mac, PS3/PS4, Xbox 360/Xbox One)

Watch for; 300: Rise of an Empire (2014) IMDB / YouTube trailer, Dark Souls 2 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360), Southpark Stick of Truth (PC, PS3, Xbox 360), Titanfall (PC, Xbox 360/One)

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 149: Only a test
February 22, 2014 - 29:57

- TitanFall (beta) (PC, Xbox 360/Xbox One) (0:30)
- Hex: Shards of Fate (alpha) (PC, Mac) (19:14)
- Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft (open beta) (PC, Mac) (18:37)

(0:30) TitanFall is a very fast paced science fiction shooter. The beta was open for a brief period, it closed shortly after I did my recording for this podcast, but I discuss my thoughts on the design and overall pacing.

(19:14) Hex: Shards of Fate, a digital collectable card game is in alpha. I decided to back the game, which will get me some stuff at launch and allows me access to the test. The test is currently an unlocked version of what they are calling PvP, which is 1-1 duels. (There is also a few forms of tournaments which I haven't tried.) While it offers the same richness and depth in deck building that Magic the Gathering does, it also has a similar kind of 'pass pass pass' game play which may bore some. This is certainly not a fast paced game.

(18:37) I haven't talked about Hearthstone in a while, so I give some updated thoughts on the state of the now open beta, and why I haven't talked about it much lately.

Show notes

Games; Destiny (PS3/PS4, Xbox 360/One), Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft (PC, Mac), Hex: Shards of Fate (PC, Mac), Magic the Gathering: Online (PC), Magic the Gathering: Duel of the Plainswalkers (PC), Mass Effect 3 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii U), Titanfall (PC, Xbox 360/One), Tribes (1) (PC)

Non video game; Magic the Gathering, Spybot Search and Destroy

Watch for; Thief (PC/Mac, PS3/PS4, Xbox 360/Xbox One), Titanfall (PC, Xbox 360/One)

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 148: Evil dungeon robot
February 15, 2014 - 30:00

- Evil Genius Online (Facebook) (1:16)
- Darkest Dungeon (PC, Mac, Linux) (Kickstarter) (7:22)
- RoboCop (2014) (13:54)

(1:16) Evil Genius Online is a continuation of the Evil Genius franchise. While it requires you to be online, and it's targeting a casual audience, it retains all of the spirit and charm of the original Evil Genius. Being a Facebook app it's free to play, so I highly recommend anyone with an interest in strategic base building check it out. It should be noted though that it is in open beta, so not all features are implemented yet. If you are someone who wants a finished product you may want to wait a bit.

(7:22) Darkest Dungeon is a game on kickstarter which is worth your attention. It's a random dungeon exploring game with all of the traditional dungeon exploring, leveling up, and collecting loot aspects. However, what sets it apart is that the party can become afflicted with various things. They may develop fears, become unable to perform at their best, or may overcome obstacles and actually become hardened adventurers. It is up to you to manage their various states and conditions, and this balance between the physical and mental states of your party is what really sets Darkest Dungeon apart from the rest. The game was fully funded in less than a day, but there is still time to become a backer if you are interested.

(13:54) While RoboCop is a fine restart to a well established franchise, I think some of the changes to the presentation make this one movie you may want to skip. The dark humor of the over the top violence, and the over the top violence itself are gone. What remains is an extremely serious cyberpunk tale which is extremely emotional and contains some pretty disturbing imagery.

Show notes

Games; Borderlands 2: Mad Moxxi and the Wedding Day Massacre (PC, Mac, PS3, Xbox 360), Darkest Dungeon (Kickstarter), Evil Genius Online (Facebook), Titanfall (PC, Xbox 360/One)

TV; Almost Human (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Movie; Robocop (2014) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Thief (PC/Mac, PS3/PS4, Xbox 360/Xbox One)

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 147: Thy dungeon, rebuilt
February 8, 2014 - 15:20

- Dungeon Keeper (PC, iOS, Android) (0:21)

(0:21) EA Mythic's Dungeon Keeper is a restart of a series which originally released in 1997. The new version, while able to retain some of the spirit of the original game, is quite a disappointment. While it works for mobile, the free to play model, and design around 'burst play' - where you play a few minutes then go away for hours - is not in the least bit interesting. If anything, the restart has made me want a true restart even more.

Show notes

Games; Dungeon Keeper (iOS, Andriod), Evil Genius (PC) (Steam), War for the Overworld (PC/Mac/Linux)

Watch for; Robocop IMDB / YouTube trailer, Thief (PC/Mac, PS3/PS4, Xbox 360/Xbox One)

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 146: For great justice
February 1, 2014 - 25:04

- DC Universe Online (PC, PS3/PS4) (1:52)

(1:52) I decided to pick up DC Universe Online for a few reasons. It is an action based MMO which has a few interesting points to it. It is, however, kind of grindy feeling, and power choice just feels kind of meh. But, for a free-to-play game, it's actually pretty fun and worth a look if you are looking or a super hero MMO.

Show notes

Games; City of Heroes / Villains (PC), DC Universe Online (PC, PS3/PS4)

DC Universe Online intro video; YouTube

Watch for; Robocop IMDB / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 145: Box fee and subscription
January 25, 2014 - 28:14

- ramblings about MMO cost models (1:12)

(1:12) There are a few MMOs targeted at launching this year, and later, who have a box fee and monthly subscription. I ramble about what kind of players would be interested in that kind of price model, and thoughts on why this is a bad idea. I begin with a sort of history of the origins at the end of the pay-to-play period and explain how amount of content and game choice has changed in the last 15 years.

Show notes

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 144: Castle of cards
January 18, 2014 - 24:22

- Castle Doombad (iOS) (0:24)
- First look: War of Omens (Facebook) (12:15)

(0:24) I got a new iOS tower defense game called Castle Doombad. It's a tower defense game with a few different spins on the concept which make it unique and a bit more interesting. It's possibly one of the best, if not the best, tower defense games I've played.

(12:15) I have a first look for a collectable card shared resource type game which is currently only releasing on Facebook.

Show notes

Games; Castle Doombad (iOS), War of Omens (Facebook)

Watch for; I, Frankenstein IMDB / YouTube trailer, Knights Of Badassdom IMDB / YouTube trailer, Robocop IMDB / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 143: Headphones island
January 11, 2014 - 32:34

- Creative Lab's Sound Blaster Tactic3D Fury headset review and Evo ramblings (0:37)
- Retro review: Far Cry 3 (11:30)

(0:37) I ramble about Creative Lab's Sound Blaster Tactic3D Fury headset. They seem like a solid 40mm speaker size headset, and I talk about the different features. However, for me, my older 50mm size ones are more comfortable and better suited to my needs. I talk about my reasons for that. And in the last bit for this section I talk about the features in the new Creative Lab's Evo line and why those may be a better choice for media and gaming use.

(11:30) I have a retro review for Far Cry 3. I had never played a Far Cry game before Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon, so I discuss aspects about the series overall, similarities to Blood Dragon, and reasons why you may want to consider picking up the Far Cry franchise if you haven't been following it.

Show notes

Game; Far Cry 3 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

Hardware; Creative Sound Blaster Tactic3D Fury, Creative Sound Blaster EVO, Creative Sound Blaster EVO ZxR

Watch for; I, Frankenstein IMDB / YouTube trailer, Knights Of Badassdom IMDB / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 142: Before and After
January 1, 2014 - 40:40

- Top 5 rabb1t games of 2013 (0:57)
- Top 5 rabb1t anticipated games of 2014 (10:55)

(0:57) I ramble about some of the games that really stood out in 2013.

(10:55) I ramble about games I'm really looking forward to in 2014.

Show notes

Games; Batman Arkham Origins (PC, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSVita, 3DS), BioShock Infinite (PC/Mac, PS3, Xbox 360), Dead Space 3 (PC, PS3, Xbox 360), Destiny (PS3/PS4, Xbox 360/One), EverQuest Next (PC), (Blizzard's) Heroes of the Storm (PC/Mac), The Order: 1886 (PS4 exclusive), Thief (PC, PS3/PS4, Xbox 360/One), Titanfall (PC, Xbox 360/One), Tomb Raider (PC, PS3/PS4, Xbox 360/One), The Walking Dead (PC, Mac, PSN, PSVita, Xbox Live, iOS)

Watch for; I, Frankenstein IMDB / YouTube trailer, Knights Of Badassdom IMDB / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 141: Xmas rambling
December 25, 2013 - 14:59

- The Walking Dead: Season 2, Episode 1 (PC, Mac, PS3, Xbox 360, iOS) (0:24)
- Xmas rambling (3:01)

(0:24) The first episode for The Walking Dead: Season 2 is now out. It's basically just a continuation from the first series, so if you liked the first season you should like this one.

(3:01) I ramble about some past Xmas time, good and bad.

Show notes

Game; The Walking Dead: Season 2, Episode 1

Watch for; 47 Ronin (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 140: Sequels
December 21, 2013 - 43:09

- Diablo 3: Reaper of Souls beta (PC/Mac) (0:30)
- Resogun (PS4) (16:23)
- PlayStation 4 thoughts (21:47)
- The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013) (28:50)

(0:30) I talk about some of the changes to Diablo 3 that I've seen in the Reaper of Souls beta. I detail some of my choices with my build for Crusader so far. (Up to about level 42.)

(16:23) I talk about a free downloadable game for PlayStation Plus people who own a PlayStation 4. Resogun is an old-school arcade shooter which is basically a re-imagining of Defender.

(21:47) I talk a bit about my thoughts on the PlayStation 4 in general.

(28:50) And I saw the Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug in IMAX 3D and talk a bit about that.

Show notes

Games; Diablo 3: Reaper of Souls (PC/Mac), Resogun (PS4)

Movie; The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Watch for; 47 Ronin (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, The Walking Dead: Season 2 (Episode 1)

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 139: R.I.P.d., Heroes of Dragon Age
December 14, 2013 - 19:03

- Heroes of Dragon Age (iOS, Android) (0:21)
- R.I.P.D. (2013) (7:04)

(0:21) Heroes of Dragon Age can best be described as a collectable figures game. You collect, level up, and choose a team of 5 heroes to complete quests or fight other players. The game is free, however, it's one of those energy limited micro-transaction games, so I didn't spend much time with it. If that's your thing it might be worth a look.

(7:04) R.I.P.D. is a fun light hearted action movie. However, if you've seen Men in Black, more so if you've also seen Ghostbusters, there isn't anything that will surprise you in R.I.P.D. It's a passable start for what could be a promising movie series.

Show notes

Game; Heroes of Dragon Age (iOS, Android)

Movie; R.I.P.D. (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Watch for; 47 Ronin (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 138: The MULE returns
December 7, 2013 - 17:21

- M.U.L.E. Returns (iOS) (0:29)
- Batman: Arkham Origins final thoughts (6:03)

(0:29) Once upon a time a very fun game came out called M.U.L.E. Now, 30 years later, it's been reborn on iOS. It's a fun electronic board game with elements of basic economy in the form of supply and demand. Currently you can only play vs. A.I., but it looks like multiplayer vs. other people may be included later. It's great fun, but I don't know if it's as repayable as I remember the original being back in the day. I'm not sure if that's because I'm older, or because it's a bit too basic for modern gaming.

(6:03) I ramble about my final thoughts for Batman: Arkham Origins.

Show notes

Games; Batman Arkham Origins (PC, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSVita, 3DS), M.U.L.E. Returns (iOS)

Watch for; 47 Ronin (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 137: Catching Fire to turkeys
November 27, 2013 - 21:14

- The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013) (0:54)
- Rambling about Turkey day (6:24)

(0:54) The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013) is the second in the series. It is based on a trilogy of books, so we will hopefully see at least one more movie. While this is an excellent movie and continues shortly after the events of the first movie, it is very definitely only part of the story.

(6:24) I ramble about Turkey days in the past and some thoughts about current Turkey days.

Show notes

TV / Movie; The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Watch for; The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, Mystery Science Theater 3000 Thanksgiving day marathon

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 136: Android bounty
November 23, 2013 - 22:12

- Almost Human (2013) (1:14)
- Bounty Killer (2013) (7:05)
- BioSock: Burial at Sea and XCOM: Enemy Within (downloadable content) closing thoughts (10:38)

(1:14) Almost Human's pilot and second episode have now aired and are available online. It's a classic science fiction cop buddy show that is definitely worth your attention if you are into that kind of show.

(7:05) Bounty Killer was an unexpected surprise. It's part Mad Max, part Thunderbirds (in that 60s vision of Science Fiction way), part comedy in an Evil Dead and Tank Girl kind of way, and part love story. For those into really good B-movies, this may be the best one yet.

(10:38) I have closing thoughts for BioShock's Burial at Sea and XCOM's Enemy Within DLC. I was disappointed at how short Burial at Sea was, and very impressed at how much there was with Enemy Within.

Show notes

Games; BioShock: Burial at Sea (PC, PS3, Xbox 360), XCOM: Enemy Within (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

TV / Movie; Almost Human (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, Bounty Killer (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Watch for; The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 135: Rapture, enemies within, dark worlds, and heroes
November 16, 2013 - 29:15

- BioShock: Burial at Sea (downloadable content) (0:40)
- XCOM: Enemy Within (downloadable content) (3:55)
- Thor: The Dark World (2013) (9:06)
- First look: Blizzard's Hero of the Storm (11:15)

(0:40) BioShock Infinite's downloadable content, Burial at Sea, is now out. I have only played about 4 hours, but it looks like a great return to the city and world of Rapture. If you enjoyed BioShock Infinite you will enjoy this first part of the downloadable expansion.

(3:55) XCOM has new downloadable content as well, called Enemy Within. This expands your resources, adding the option to biotically, or mechanically, enhance your soldiers. It adds new maps, new enemies, new items, and a new medal system which helps to buff your soldiers. If you enjoyed the base game of XCOM: Enemy Unknown, you should definitely pick up this expansion.

(9:06) Thor: The Dark World is a good second movie in the series. While not amazing, it is a great continuation of the story and expands on several relationships. If you enjoyed the first Thor movie you should definitely go see this on the big screen, but if you felt just meh about it, you might want to wait for it to come out on physical media to rent it.

(11:15) During BlizzCon Blizzard showed off the first details about their MOBA game which has been in development for several years; Heroes of the Storm. I ramble about it for a bit in this first look.

Show notes

Games; Blizzard's Heroes of the Storm, BioShock: Burial at Sea (PC, PS3, Xbox 360), XCOM: Enemy Within (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

Movie; Thor: The Dark World (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Watch for; The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 134: Ender
November 9, 2013 - 12:46

- Ender's Game (2013) (0:35)

(0:35) While I have not read the book the Ender's Game movie was based on, I thought it was a pretty good movie. There are some very strong messages about bullying and standing up for what you believe is right, as well as some messages about family ties and love.

Show notes

Movie; Ender's Game (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Almost Human (TV) IMDB / YouTube trailer, BioShock: Burial at Sea (PC, PS3, Xbox 360), The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, Thor: The Dark World (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, XCOM: Enemy Within (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 133: Batman's origin of Exile
November 2, 2013 - 27:55

- Batman Arkham Origins (1:26)
- Path of Exile (10:41)
- Post podcast Nvidia PhysX rambling (24:45)

(1:26) While not made by the same company who made the previous two games, Batman Arkham Origins is an extremely faithful continuation of the series. The tech used is the same, though it may have different reasons for being in Batman's arsenal. Those who enjoyed the first two will find a lot to love with Origins.

(10:41) Path of Exile is a free to play Diablo-like game. It is more similar to Diablo 2 in that it retains that high action feel and high number of skills / abilities / talents. In fact, it has 1,350 passive abilities, and tons and tons of skill / spell / ability gems that any character can use if they have the right stats. If you enjoyed the Diablo series but always wanted more flexibility in character building, this is the game for you.

(24:45) In the first ever post podcast ramblings, I removed some comments about Nvidia's PhsyX from the Batman Arkham Origins review and put them in after the podcast has ended for those who care to hear about my ramblings on that.

Show notes

Games; Batman Arkham Origins (PC, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSVita, 3DS), Path of Exile (PC)

Watch for; Almost Human (TV) IMDB / YouTube trailer, BioShock: Burial at Sea (PC, PS3, Xbox 360), Ender's Game (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, Thor: The Dark World (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, XCOM: Enemy Within (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 132: Halloween special III
October 28, 2013 - 12:33

- Top 5 Halloween time candies (0:23)
- Costumes when I was little (5:29)

(0:23) I talk about what my top 5 Halloween time candies would be and why.

(5:29) I talk about the only two costumes I remember from when I was young.

Pirate's booty (donations); Jenesee

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 131: The laptop among us
October 26, 2013 - 27:49

- The Wolf Among Us (PC, Mac, PSN, Xbox Live) (0:53)
- Asus ROG G750 laptop (10:08)

(0:53) I had the spare money to get The Wolf Among us. It seems to have improved on a few flaws with the Walking Dead game; choices seem to have a bit more weight, and combat has that tense and urgent feel that was sometimes missing in the Walking Dead. It's a great start to a promising game.

(10:08) I got my new laptop. It seems to have improved on the already great design of my G75. The keyboard is a mechanical keyboard now. There is a brushed aluminum surface which should help with cooling. The monitor seems a hair better. But there is an issue with the sound having a noticeable hiss during quieter times that gamers might want to look out for. (This seems to have something to do with the amp, which sadly is unlikely to have a workaround.) It's a great evolution of the ROG laptop line.

Show notes

Games; The Walking Dead (PC, Mac, PSN, PSVita, Xbox Live, iOS), The Wolf Among Us (PC, Mac, PSN, Xbox Live)

Watch for; Almost Human (TV) IMDB / YouTube trailer, Batman Arkham Origins (PC, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSVita, 3DS), Borderlands 2: TK Baha's Bloody Harvest (PC, Mac, PS3, Xbox 360), Ender's Game (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, Thor: The Dark World (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, XCOM: Enemy Within (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 130: Much ado
October 19, 2013 - 18:32

- Much Ado About Nothing (2013) (0:39)
- After Earth (2013) (4:18)

(0:39) I was finally able to see Joss Whedon's Much Ado About Nothing. It's a low budget independent type piece which seems to be very close to the source material. The actors, actresses, and Joss' spin on how to play things are what make this version great. If you enjoy Joss Whedon's stuff and are at least ok with Shakespeare, this is a must see.

(4:18) I saw After Earth. While not Will and Jaden's greatest performances, I don't think it was as bad as many said it was. It's a sci-fi adventure with a sometimes moving side story about a father and son reconnecting.

Show notes

Movies; After Earth (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, Much Ado About Nothing (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Almost Human (TV) IMDB / YouTube trailer, Batman Arkham Origins (PC, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSVita, 3DS), Borderlands 2: TK Baha's Bloody Harvest (PC, Mac, PS3, Xbox 360), Ender's Game (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, The Wolf Among Us (PC, Mac, PSN, Xbox Live), Thor: The Dark World (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, XCOM: Enemy Within (PC, PS3, Xbox 360)

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 129: Mindbender
October 12, 2013 - 32:49

- Ramblings about my Priest deck in Hearthstone; Mindbender (0:52)

(0:52) I ramble about my thoughts on a good way to counter those decks with too many high power cards. My Mindbender deck may be a good answer for those of you who need help finding a way. Unfortunately it's not a cheap deck having 4 Common and 3 Rares, but you should be able to get there by the time you have the knowledge and experience to play it well.

Show notes

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 128: Among the shadows
October 5, 2013 - 14:30

- Thoughts about the original thief series and the restart (0:24)

(0:24) I ramble about my thoughts on what made the original Thief series great, and my hopes for the new restart set to release early next year.

Show notes

Games; Dishonored (PC, PS3, Xbox 360), Thief (2014) (PC, PS3/PS4, Xbox 360/One), Thief (original series)

Watch for; AMD's R9 and R7 graphic cards, Batman Arkham Origins (PC, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSVita, 3DS)

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 127: Epic character
September 28, 2013 - 42:46

- Identifying with our in-game character (0:51)
- Infinity Blade 3 (iOS) (16:18)
- Epic (movie) (2013) (21:59)
- Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (TV) (25:23)
- Bleeding edge; 4k monitors (28:05)
- Steam OS and Steam Box (33:30)

(0:51) Our characters (in MMOs) are often perceived to be complete people. We often identify them with a particular history, as well as racial background and ethnicity, much like we do with ourselves. But since this is a game, is this really ideal, or do many of our perceptions hold us back from enjoying things as much as we could? Are we simply forcing ourselves into old habits to force-fit our characters into these perceptions?

(16:18) Infinity Blade 3 is out, and it adds a lot of story and lore to a game series which previously hasn't really had any. Also new is an achievement system and the ability to craft potions. I'm only about 1-1.5 hours in, so this is just an early preview of what I've found so far.

(21:59) Epic is out on physical media and I rented it. It's a fun animated fantasy movie that's good fun for the whole family. It's not targeted just at little ones, as so many of these kinds of movies are, as it deals with a few deeper issues surrounding relationships and change, which really help it to stand out.

(25:23) Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. started, and it's a great start to what could be a really excellent superhero show.

(28:05) In bleeding edge tech, I talk about 4k monitors which are starting to get a lot of news attention lately.

(33:30) In the news I ramble about possibilities for Steam OS and Steam Box's most recent form.

Show notes

Games; EverQuest 1 (PC), EverQuest 2 (PC), EverQuest Next (PC), Infinity Blade 3 (iOS)

TV; Epic (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Batman Arkham Origins (PC, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PSVita, 3DS), Steam Box, Steam OS

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 126: Only the mighty headless
September 21, 2013 - 25:52

- Sleepy Hollow (TV) (1:08)
- Hearthstone; Daily deck build for "Only the mighty", minion tips (4:04)
- Hearthstone; Daily deck build for "Only the mighty", Priest tips (11:54)

(1:08) Sleepy Hollow's first episode has aired. It's not your average Sleepy Hollow tale. Those who are fans of fantasy, immortal tales, and mystery/myth may find it worth watching.

(4:04) In the first of what may be a semi-regular series I give tips for a deck I built for the Hearthstone daily quest "Only the mighty". In this first section I discuss minions I used which qualify for the 5 or higher mana cost. (11:54) In the second half of the section I discuss how I paired it with Priest, and give various strategy tips on which cards I chose. These Priest card tips cover many cards which may work for any mid to late game Priest deck.

Show notes

Games; Hearthstone (PC/Mac/iPad)

TV; Sleepy Hollow (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Infinity Blade 3 (iOS)

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 125: Do you want to live forever?
September 14, 2013 - 23:52

- Riddick (movie) (2013) (0:25)
- Oblivion (movie) (2013) (9:35)

(0:25) I talk about the most recent Riddick movie. It seems the character of Riddick is becoming more and more like Conan in space. His movies are becoming less about interesting story and character development and more about interesting characters which Riddick will eventually kill. While not without it's merits, I don't know that I'd say there is really enough in Riddick to be worth actually seeing on the big screen.

(9:35) Oblivion is a really intriguing sci-fi movie done with a sort of old-school flair. Things are not what they seem and as more of the beauty of the war torn planet is revealed, more of the mystery of what really happened, and what is really happening, is revealed to us. I regret not seeing it when it was on the big screen.

Show notes

Games; Amnesia: A machine for pigs (PC)

Movies; Oblivion (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer, Riddick (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Infinity Blade 3 (iOS), Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (TV)

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 124: Dredd, pirates, Roberts
September 7, 2013 - 18:57

- Dredd (movie) (2012) (1:24)
- Pirates of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (movie) (2011) (6:14)
- Roberts Space Industries: Star Citizen hanger preview (9:39)

(1:24) I talk about the most recent Judge Dredd movie; Dredd. I've never been a huge fan of Dredd, but I've always known about it. I actually liked the last movie, but this one is much closer to the original source material, and is set in a more modern, less over-the-top comic style. Great performances all around, and it's a sci-fi action movie well worth watching if you are at all interested in Dredd.

(6:14) I like the pirates series, and On Stranger Ties is sort of a new beginning, or its own chapter in the series. While the previous 3 movies were all connected by a single story arc, On Stranger Tides seems set on its own. There's the same pirates we've known, but new magic, mermaids, and other new goodies. As always, the pirates movie is an over the top epic fantasy adventure that's well worth watching.

(9:39) In the last section I talk briefly about Robers Space Industries first sample of Star Citizen. The hanger is a single room where you can preview the ship you got in any founder's pack you've picked up. While not much is there to see, it's very cool to get an early preview of how the game is progressing.

Show notes

Games; Roberts Space Industries: Star Citizen (PC), 'Commercial' for the ship I have

Movies; Dredd (2012) IMDB / YouTube trailer, Pirates of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Riddick (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 123: Hearthstone; more strategies
August 31, 2013 - 35:23

- Hearthstone (PC/Mac/iPad) general deck building strategies (0:47)
- Sad news about the state of my laptop (26:13)

(0:47) I don't have anything else to talk about this week that's new, so I discuss some general Hearthstone strategies (4:12), as well as a few specific suggestions for Mage (10:50), Rogue (14:38), and Shaman (17:33). I also give some suggestions on good Neutral cards (21:10).

(26:13) In the news I talk about my sad findings with my laptop battery.

Show notes

Games; Hearthstone (PC/Mac/iPad)

Watch for; Riddick (2013) IMDB / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 122: Hearthstone and ass kicking
August 24, 2013 - 41:21

- Hearthstone beta (PC/Mac/iPad) (1:40)
- Hearthstone general deck building strategies (14:01)
- Plants vs. Zombies 2 (iOS) (22:10)
- Kick Ass 2 (movie) (28:04)

(1:40) Friday I got into the Hearthstone beta. I ramble about how much fun I'm having and, in general, the concepts behind how this collectable card game works.

(14:01) In the first of what may be a semi-regular segment I discus some general Hearthstone deck building strategies.

(22:10) Plants vs. Zombies 2 is out. It adds some new map features, some new enemy types, and is a lot of fun if you enjoyed the first.

(28:04) Kick Ass 2 is a great sequel. Many times sequels fail as they simply can't live up to the awesome origin story of the first movie. Kick Ass 2 does not disappoint, and is both an evolution of the characters, as well as an origin story for many other things in the Kick Ass universe. If you are a fan I highly recommend it.

Show notes

Games; Hearthstone (PC/Mac/iPad), Plants vs. Zombies 2 (iOS)

Chart; Hearthstone deck construction chart

Movie; Kick-Ass 2 (2013) (official site) / YouTube trailer

Media; WTF is Hearthstone Interesting note; I beat TotalBiscuit in a match on Sunday.

Watch for; Games com news.

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 121: Witches and Elysium
August 17, 2013 - 27:50

- Dishonored: The Brigmore Witches (0:27)
- Elysium (movie) (7:10)
- Sad rabb1t life news (16:35)

(0:27) Dishonored's newest downloadable content is out. You continue the story of Daud right where it left off with the Knife of Dunwall. Graphically the game is a touch different, so if you didn't like the washed out colors of the base game near the docs you may be pleased. However, as it's continuing the story of Daud if you didn't like the first downloadable content you won't like this one either. One new power type and at least one new enemy make things a touch different, but not enough to really change the experience and gameplay we've seen before.

(7:10) Elysium is out. It's a solid Sci-Fi action romp that never stops. If you enjoyed District 9 you should enjoy Elysium as well. However, I found myself a bit disappointed, as the director does like to use shaky cam during fights, and since the majority of the movie is action, it made a lot of the movie difficult to follow. While it wasn't completely disruptive, I think it would have been more enjoyable had there not been quite so much camera movement. (It's not on the level of hand-held documentary cameras, but it's like when people are moving or being hit it shakes / moves.)

(16:35) Some sad stuff has come up with my life and while things are likely to turn out ok long term, it seems like I am yet again being reminded how terrible my life is right now, how no matter what I try and do everything keeps falling apart, and it seems that I will never be able to recover.

Show notes

Games; Dishonored: The Brigmore Witches

Movie; Elysium (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Kick-Ass 2 (2013) (official site) / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 120: The EQNext big thing
August 10, 2013 - 35:59

- EverQuest Next reveal (0:38)
- 'My EQ story'; holding service (16:01)
- 'My EQ story'; my first 3D MMORPG game (24:23)

(0:38) On August 2nd EverQuest Next (and EverQuest Next: Landmark) were shown off to the world. I could not have been more impressed with the ideas they are trying to bring to MMORPGs. In this very long rambling I discuss how they are allowing for mixing and matching of classes, how abilities work, the graphics and amazing character animation, destructible environments and the layered world, "Rallying Calls", and monster A.I., or more accurately behavior. If they make good on all their promises and hopes EverQuest Next could truly be the next step in MMORPG evolution.

(16:01) One thing showed during the EverQuest Next presentation was a series of videos people had submitted telling 'my EQ story'. I talk about my EQ story of "holding service" and how that inspired others and was something people would always remember.

(24:23) In a second 'my EQ story' I talk about how EverQuest was the very first 3D MMORPG game I had ever played, and opened my eyes to seeing things I never thought I'd see during my life.

Show notes

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 119: Lost souls
August 3, 2013 - 24:10

- MMORPGs (0:45)
- The Wolverine (movie) (13:58)

(0:45) I haven't really played a MMORPG in quite a while. With each new one I see in the works I find myself approaching it with less optimism and more caution. I ponder about what are some of the reasons that have made me question if I really want to continue playing MMORPGs in the future.

(13:58) The Wolverine (2013) is out. It's based on a comic which is 30 years old, and I think they do a good job of bringing that story to the big screen. However, being focused on story, relationships, and drama, more than super-powered battles I don't know that I'd recommend it for anyone but the hardcore Wolverine fans. It's a decent enough movie, but I just don't think there will be enough there to interest people who aren't that into the character.

Show notes

Games; Destiny (PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, possibly PC), EverQuest, Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft (PC/Mac/iPad), Neverwinter (PC), Star Citizen (PC), WildStar (PC),

Movie; The Wolverine (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Elysium (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, Kick-Ass 2 (2013) (official site) / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 118: Gods of war
July 27, 2013 - 28:45

- God of War: Ascension (PS3) (0:22)
- Evil Dead (movie) (2013) (9:00)
- Star Trek (the video game) (12:29)

(0:23) I picked up God of War: Ascension on rental. Unfortunately, due to a spot that frustrated me and made me rage quit, I only got to see the first 3.5 hours of a reported 8 hour play-through. The animation seems good, the game is more epic than ever before, but the UI seems like they just didn't care. It seems a worthy successor in the series, if you can get past any potential snags.

(9:00) Evil Dead (2013) has released on physical media, so I had a chance to see it. As a fan of the original series I liked it a lot. All of the original elements were in the restart in some form, and you could see tributes to the original in several places in the film. If you are a fan of the original I highly recommend it.

(12:29) Star Trek (the video game) was on sale, so I decided to pick that up. While it's a decent attempt at a 3rd person shooter, the non-shooter elements are kind of disruptive and distracting. The low-quality production on the game overall drags down what could otherwise have been a very solid shooter. It's an ok game, but I recommend approaching it with caution and catching it on sale for very cheap.

Show notes

Games; God of War: Ascension (PS3), Star Trek (the video game)

Movie; Evil Dead (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Elysium (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, Kick-Ass 2 (2013) (official site) / YouTube trailer, The Wolverine (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 117: Protecting the children
July 20, 2013 - 23:32

- The Last of Us (PS3) final thoughts (0:23)
- ESRB Mature; it is not enough (3:51)
- Pacific Rim (movie) (12:00)

(0:23) I finished the Last of Us. While the game is very good, it takes a pretty serious turn away from its journey about 8 hours in. From then on it turns heavily to combat, leaving little more than lots and lots of shooting in the face. Overall the characters and story are great, but due to the departure away from the journey, I don't give it a perfect rating.

(3:51) During the Last of Us there is a point in the game where you take control of Ellie, a 14-year-old girl. She becomes the main character for a bit, meaning all of the extreme violence is being done by, and done to, this young girl. This is not ok. Why is there no warning on the ESRB? Why have reviewers not talked about this?

(12:00) Pacific Rim is an awesome giant monsters vs. mech/robots movie. Though their battles are the focus of the movie, there is actually more there in the form of a romance, relationships between pilots, and a glimpse into what's happened to the world since the war started.

Show notes

Games; The Last of Us (PS3)

Movie; Pacific Rim (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Elysium (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, Munchkin Legends (card), R.I.P.D. (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, The Wolverine (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 116: Unburied console
July 13, 2013 - 27:40

- The Last of Us (PS3) (0:42)
- Badland (iOS) (8:27)
- Monitor, PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 ramblings (13:19)

(0:33) I have picked up a monitor in preparation for the PlayStation 4, which allows me to play a few PlayStation 3 games before I sell my console or send it off to some family-like people. I picked up the Last of Us, and talk about a few early play impressions. I'm only about 3 hours in of a reported 15 hour play-through, so these are just some early thoughts.

(8:27) I picked up Badland for iOS on sale during the 5 year app store celebration. It's an interesting side-scroller which seems very simple, yet can contain some tricky puzzles.

(13:19) I ramble a bit about my new monitor. I ramble and reminisce about the PlayStation 3. And I ramble a bit about the PlayStation 3 hardware at launch (compared to PCs at that time) as compared to the PlayStation 4 hardware (compared to PCs of today.)

Show notes

Games; Badland (iOS), The Last of Us (PS3)

Watch for; Deus Ex: The Fall (iOS), Pacific Rim (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, R.I.P.D. (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, The Wolverine (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

App store celebration; Slide to play

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 115: Zombie daze
July 6, 2013 - 23:29

- The Walking Dead: 400 Days (0:33)
- Closing news; Friend is no longer my friend. Playstation 4 ramblings. (11:28)

(0:33) The Walking Dead: 400 Days downloadable content is now out. While it follows the core design of the original 5 chapters, this expansion revolves basically around 5 small stories which take 15-20 minutes each. Due to such a short visit with each story, I think they miss the mark in terms of building a connection with the player, as you just don't feel the same sense of tension or consequences since you have no history with these characters.

(11:28) In the close I ramble about one of, what I thought was, a very close friend deciding he doesn't want to be friends anymore and how that may impact my online game play time. I also ramble quite a bit about my thoughts on getting a Playstation 4 and the games coming in what's left of 2013 through to 2014.

Show notes

Games; The Walking Dead: 400 Days

Movies; The Lone Ranger (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Limbo (iOS, Playstation Network, Steam, Xbox Live), Pacific Rim (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, R.I.P.D. (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, The Wolverine (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 114: Once upon a time...
June 29, 2013 - 29:43

- Borderlands 2; Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep (1:02)
- Poker Night 2 (10:20)
- World War Z (movie) (14:35)
- Oz, the Great and Powerful (movie) (20:03)
- Nvidia GTX 760 (tech) (22:36)

(1:02) Tina Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep is out for Borderlands 2. In this expansion the players are taking a break and playing a D&D type role playing game. The players take the role of the characters as they enter a fantasy world, which is narrated by the vault hunters. Though I'm only about 40% of the way through according to reviewers saying it's about 15 hours, so far this is one of the best expansions I've played for any game. The scale and balance is perfect, there isn't any unnecessary travel, and even things like respawn timers seem to be tuned to keep the flow of action moving forward.

(10:20) Poker Night 2 was on sale, so I decided to pick it up. I'm pretty terrible at poker games, but because this involves video game characters (most of which I am familiar with) it's like playing with friends. Some of the things they say or do during the match is pretty hilarious, though since there are only a few sayings they do get repetitive pretty quickly. If you want a casual card game that takes a few minutes for some quick fun, it's tough to go wrong with this one.

(14:35) World War Z is out. It isn't a usual zombie movie in that it is both based on a viral origin, and the zombies aren't all that powerful, they are simply numerous. We follow the main character through his journey to find the origin of the disease, with the hopes that finding the origin will reveal a cure.

(20:03) Oz, the Great and Powerful is finally out on physical media. This wasn't really what I expected, as this obviously was aimed at a pre-teen audience. I was expecting something targeted more towards teens and young adults. That being said, the movie isn't really all that bad. However, I don't think it lives up to its full potential being simply an adequate continuation of the story and never really expanding beyond what's required of a prequel.

(22:36) The Nvidia GTX 760 is now out and is a solid card for mainstream gamers.

Show notes

Games; Borderlands 2; Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep, Poker Night 2

Movies; Oz, the Great and Powerful (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, World War Z (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Watch for; The Lone Ranger (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, R.I.P.D. (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 113: Aliens among us
June 22, 2013 - 24:14

- Man of Steel (movie) (0:57)
- Dark Skies (movie) (12:50)

(0:57) Man of Steel is now out. It's a restart to the Superman movies and does an amazing job of setting up a new-school origin and background for Superman, and it's the first Superman movie I've felt was really on-par in terms of the epic scale it should be for such a movie.

(12:50) Dark Skies is one of the scariest haunting type movies I've seen, and due to it not quite being a standard haunting movie I think it may be one Sci-fi fans and gamers might be interested in.

Show notes

Games; The Last of Us (PS3), XCOM (iOS)

Movies; Dark Skies (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, Man of Steel (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Watch for; World War Z (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 112: E times 3
June 15, 2013 - 25:45

- Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (movie) (0:30)
- Remember Me, finishing notes (4:58)
- E3 first looks (9:38)

(0:30) Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters is now out for physical media. It's silly fun and similar in style to the Evil Dead movies.

(4:58) I finished Remember Me at about 8 played hours. I ramble about some closing thoughts.

(9:38) There were several games that looked cool during the E3 coverage and I talk about my top favorites. Destiny, which is made by the people who made the first three Halo movies, looks awesome. I'm not usually interested in PvP games, but Titanfall looks absolutely incredible. Thief looks like an incredibly well done continuation of the series, though technically it's a restart. Batman: Arkham Origins looks just like it should, though it's made by a different studio than the original Arkham games. Tom Clancy's; the Division looks like an interesting post-apocalyptic role playing shooter. An expansion for the Walking Dead game has been announced and is called 400 days. And a PS4 exclusive, The Order 1886, looks like an interesting take on 1800s London.

Show notes

Games; Batman: Arkham Origins (PS3, Xbox 360, PC, Wii U) / Batman: Arkham Origins gameplay footage, Destiny (PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, possibly PC) / Destiny gameplay footage, Remember Me, The Order: 1886 (PS4 exclusive), Thief (PS4, Xbox One, PC) / Thief gameplay footage, Titanfall (Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC) / Titanfall gameplay footage, Tom Clancy's the Division (PS4, Xbox One) / Tom Clancy's the Division gameplay footage

Movies; Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Watch for; Man of Steel (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, World War Z (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 111: To boldly go
June 8, 2013 - 37:22

- Remember Me (1:06)
- Warhammer Quest (iOS) (11:55)
- Warm Bodies (movie) (15:41)
- Star Trek Continues (20:10)
- Star Trek Phase II (24:02)
- Nvidia GTX 770 (28:23)
- Intel socket 1150, aka Haswell (30:00)

(1:06) Remember Me is a video game set in the future in Neo Paris. The game is breathtakingly beautiful, and the story and characters are very deep and well thought out. Combat is similar to the Batman Arkham games, while adding a touch of customization to combo moves. Memory remixes seem few and far between, but are interesting and add a lot to the story. However, due to the linear nature I don't see a lot of compelling reasons for someone to replay the game once they've finished.

(11:55) Warhamer Quest seems like a direct port from the original board game. There is very little of interest in this digital version to keep me wanting to play.

(15:41) Warm Bodies is a very different zombie movie. It starts at the end of the story as opposed to most which start at the beginning or the middle. Also, this is a romantic comedy. The movie focuses on conflict and change, and is one of the best romantic comedies I've seen.

I found two Internet shows attempting to continue where the original Star Trek leaves off; Star Trek Continues (20:10) and Star Trek Phase II (24:02). Star Trek Continues is very faithful to the original material, copying the mannerisms of the characters, as well as some very similar script writing. It seems like it has promise and I'm looking forward to seeing more. Star Trek Phase II, on the other hand, isn't quite as faithful. The script writing is ok to bad, and the acting is equally lackluster. This one I'm taking a pass on.

In the news I have two bits of interesting hardware news. The Nvidia GTX 770 has launched (28:23) and replaces the previous GTX 670 and 680 in terms of power. Intel has also launched a new socket, 1150 aka Haswell (30:00.) While it's not a gain for desktops at the moment it is a big change for laptops, offering both more computational power as well as lower power consumption, allowing for longer battery life.

Show notes

Games; Remember Me, Warhammer Quest (iOS)

Movies; Warm Bodies (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Internet shows; Star Trek Continues, Star Trek Phase II

Watch for; Epic (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, Man of Steel (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, Much Ado About Nothing (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, World War Z (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 110: Gun kata
June 1, 2013 - 19:02

- Equilibrium (0:25)
- Nvidia series 7 launch; the GTX 780 (7:35)

(0:25) I talk about Equilibrium, which is a sci-fi movie that came out in 2002. It's similar to classic sci-fi in that it takes place in an oppressive future where art and feeling emotions are punishable by death. The second half of the movie is much more action oriented, as the main character goes through a transformation.

I have a new rating system for movies, and this one rates as; rent it, watch it with popcorn, and watch it with friends.

(7:35) In the news I talk a bit about the Nvidia GTX 780 launch, the first of Nvidia's series 7 graphic cards. It takes the crown for most powerful Nvidia single chip graphics card, performing very near to the $1000 Titan without the non-gaming computational advantage.

Show notes

Movie; Equilibrium (2002) (IMDB, also a trailer link)

Watch for; After Earth (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer, Much Ado About Nothing (2013) (IMDB) / YouTube trailer

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 109: Bugs and the final frontier
May 25, 2013 - 23:58

- Thoughts on game bugs; do developers care? (0:42)
- Star Trek: Into Darkness (10:30)
- A sad story about my life, and a reminder to people to be accepting and find a way (16:35)

I don't have much going on for gaming this week, so I ramble about game bugs. Why is it developers sometimes don't fix them? Are they passionate about making games, or are they simply in it to make money?

I talk about Star Trek: Into Darkness. As I expected it was an awesome blend of the classic elements of the characters as well as new elements. Star Trek: Into Darkness is a re-telling of the crew's encounter with Khan Noonien Singh. Since it is a different timeline the changes to the story make a lot of sense and are great to see. Every Star Trek fan should go see the movie.

In the close I tell a sad story about the state of my teeth, and how at the rate they are going some won't last much longer. I encourage people to be accepting of things their loved ones, or they themselves, do not like, and find a different way to achieve what needs to be done. There are different paths than the mainstream one, and that's perfectly ok if that's what works for you.

Show notes

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 108: Hearthstone
May 18, 2013 - 16:20

- Game Watch: Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft (PC/Mac/iPad) (0:24)

I don't have much going on for gaming this week, so I do an official Game Watch for Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft. The game watch describes, in as non-bias a way as I can manage, reasons why you should be interested as a gamer, and why the game could succeed or fail from a development standpoint. In closing I talk about why Hearthstone could be the (digital) CCG I've been waiting for.

(Note that from now on I'll be putting time references for the different sections. That way if people want to skip a section, or want to quickly find one, you can do so.)

Show notes

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 107: Of islands, bows, and zip lines
May 11, 2013 - 46:55

- Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon
- Tomb Raider
- Iron Man 3 (movie)

I start the podcast talking about the first of two games which take place on an island, use bows, and have zip lines; Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon. Blood Dragon does not require you own the base Far Cry 3 game, it is a stand-alone sold digitally for $15. The game is based in a 'dark future of 2007' from an 80s perspective of sci-fi. There are cyborgs, lasers, and dinosaurs. It's hilarious and ridiculous and really kind of perfect in many ways.

I have played 8 hours of the newest Tomb Raider, and although I've not finished yet I ramble about my thoughts. It re-starts the series in a great way and has all of the iconic Tomb Raider features. There is a ton of great story, solid action, but very few tombs. Though a bit of a departure from a standard Tomb Raider game it all makes perfect sense as a re-start and shows great promise for the series moving forward.

Braving what may have been insane crowds I decided to see Iron Man 3 opening weekend. If you are a fan of the series I highly recommend it, but if you haven't seen it yet you can listen to my rambly thoughts and decide for yourself.

Show notes

Games; Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon, Tomb Raider

Movies; Iron Man 3 (imdb) / Iron Man 3 trailer

Other; Heaven benchmark - YouTube video that shows off tessellation

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 106: The missing link
May 4, 2013 - 26:32

- Rambling about what I may be missing in games. Thoughts on social connectivity.
- Finishing thoughts for Hitman: Absolution.

I return to my thoughts on what it is about gaming that I feel I may be missing lately. Disappointment with recent MMOGs leads to thoughts about not encouraging group play in ways that foster social connectivity. Thoughts that my disappointment may lie within me, that my missing a pen and paper / board game to group with may be the cause. Thoughts about how the industry seems to be taking MMOGs in a direction that's more single player focused where grouping is little more than an afterthought and thus discouraging social interaction.

I finished Hitman: Absolution and have a few closing thoughts on that. The levels were pretty open compared to previous games, but, typical for Hitman, they kind of expect you to run them a dozen times and learn the scripted patterns of the targets. Voice and script was great, but really dragged down by poor animation quality in the pre-rendered scenes. Overall I'd still recommend it for any Hitman series fan.

Show notes

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 105: Battling bookworms
April 27, 2013 - 30:00

- Bookworm Heroes (iOS).
- Dishonored: The Knife of Dunwall closing thoughts.

I talk about a new iOS game, Bookworm Heroes. It's a take your turn word game, compiling words from tiles similar to Scrabble. Letters damage your opponent in a fighting game like manner. It seems pretty fun, and there are heroes that balance to different word styles, so, in theory, vocabulary shouldn't limit your ability to play. It does seem though that people can take hours, or sometimes days, to take turns, so excitement can quickly be lost by being matched up with a player who doesn't move often. While it includes high Facebook integration, it is not out for Facebook. I think limiting it to iOS only is a mistake.

I finished the expansion to Dishonored: The Knife of Dunwall. As I said before it's an excellent expansion very worth playing through.

And, I ramble a bit about my new headphones I had to get to replace my broken ones.

Show notes

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 104: A knife held with defiance
April 20, 2013 - 30:21

- Early Dishonored: Knife of Dunwall DLC thoughts.
- Defiance premier (TV).

I talk about my early thoughts of the newest expansion for Dishonored, the Knife of Dunwall. I've played about 3 hours and done the first two missions. The game does have a bit of training in the beginning, which is a good refresher. The campaign is a separate thing with a new character, Daud. (Voiced by a very recognizable Michael Madsen.) While you are on your own missions it is set in the same time period as the original campaign, as Daud is the character who killed the Empress. If you enjoyed the base game you should definitely pick up Knife of Dunwall.

I saw the premier of Defiance. It was pretty good. Set slightly in the future it's a tale of how 8 races try to get along on a transformed Earth in the city of Defiance. Will it last? I don't know. It seems a strange blend of old west and soap opera character interaction. I think it will get a few seasons before anything is seriously changed or it's canceled, but time will tell.

Show notes

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 103: All about Warframe
April 13, 2013 - 30:28

- Warframe (PC) beta thoughts.

I talk about the game my online friends and I are currently playing; Warframe. It is currently in open beta, so anyone can sign up and play. It is a free to play 3rd person PvE Sci-Fi shooter which has randomly generated levels. The items and suits can be specialized with mods, which are similar to a collectable card game in their nature in that each can be swapped in or out of items, and the mods can be leveled up to increase their power / effects. The game seems pretty complete and a lot of fun, but there is a heavy monetization aspect in micro-transactions that I'm not sure if I really agree with due to the slow acquisition speed if you aren't going to pay real-world monies.

Show notes

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 102: Twice finished
April 6, 2013 - 27:22

- Final thoughts on BioShock Infinite.
- Final thoughts for StarCraft 2.
- Retro review; Hitman: Absolution.

I open with my thoughts about finishing BioShock Infinite, and I mention some notes on things I found that are different from what I thought in my previous podcast.

I talk about my thoughts StarCraft 2: Heart of the Swarm's single player campaign. I discuss differences from the previous SC2 game, as well as thoughts on the general feel of the multiplayer community and why I don't expect to be playing very much online, if at all.

And in the close I do a retro review for Hitman: Absolution. Some things seem to have changed for this time around, and it wouldn't surprise me if those changes were to be more welcoming to new players. I'm not done yet, only about 5 hours in, but I think I'm deep enough to have seen everything in the single player campaign that's new. There is also a new play type called Contract mode, and I haven't tried that yet.

Show notes

Games; BioShock Infinite, Hearthstone, Hitman: Absolution (I'm not sure if the site actually works or not), StarCraft 2: Heart of the Swarm

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Podcast 101: Infinite hearthstone
March 30, 2013 - 40:02

- Early thoughts on BioShock Infinite.
- Early impressions of the news on Blizzard's Hearthstone.
- Trio of thoughts on StarCraft 2: Heart of the Swarm multiplayer, and the next weekend beta for Neverwinter and Defiance.

In this podcast I open with my thoughts on what I've played of BioShock Infinite. I'm about 8 hours in and there are a few changes from previous games, such as you can only carry two weapons, there are no hacking mini-games, and most notably the addition of your companion through most of the game Elizabeth. The game is stunning visually and has a much more open feel and faster flow than previous games. Fans of the series will definitely be in for a treat.

I talk about some early impressions on the announcement and news surrounding Blizzard's Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft. It looks like it could be the collectable card game I've been waiting for all these years.

And in the close I have some thoughts about StarCraft 2: Heart of the Swarm. Multiplayer seems unfriendly, but there are some levels that get you avatars and stickers. And the single player campaign seems interesting. In the next weekend of the Neverwinter and Defiance beta I didn't really discover anything new I hadn't seen before.

Show notes

Click to be taken to the podcast in your browser, or right click and save as to download this podcast directly to your computer

Archives

Comments and stuff Copyright E. Stryker 2006-2013
Product images are copyright of wherever I borrowed them from if borrowed, or by me if taken by me. :)

flash required for the logo
best viewed at 1280 wide resolution or higher