The Insert Credit Show
A relentlessly on topic smorgasbord of hard hitting video game questions as addressed by a panel of experts. Featuring Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, Brandon Sheffield, and a rotating group of special guests. Hosted by Alex Jaffe. Edited by Esper Quinn. Original music by Kurt Feldman.
Mon, March 24, 2025
Ep. 382 - Proustian Bargaining at GDC 2025
Brandon Sheffield subjects well known video game characters who just happen to be attending GDC 2025 to the famous Proust Questionnaire. Yes, we know it’s pronounced “proost.” Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, with Matthew Burns, Frank Cifaldi, Naomi Clark, Nikki Grayson, David Hellman, merritt k, Shannon Liao, Laura Michet, Alx Preston, Liz Ryerson, Phil Salvador, and Derek Yu. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Luigi , via merritt k (00:14) Rick Taylor , via Derek Yu (07:12) Astarion Ancunín , via Shannon Liao (11:34) Squall Leonhart , via Phil Salvador (13:55) Headcrab , via Laura Michet (17:50) Samus Aran , via Alx Preston (20:53) Miles “Tails” Prower , via Liz Ryerson (25:44) Alan Wake , via Matthew Burns (31:02) Geralt of Rivia , via Naomi Clark (36:08) Django , via Nikki Grayson (41:30) Tim , via David Hellman (45:15) Princess Peach , via Frank Cifaldi (47:37) This week’s Insert Credit Show is brought to you by patrons like you . Thank you. Subscribe: RSS , YouTube , <a href="https://pod
Mon, March 17, 2025
Ep. 381 - Gamer Water, with merritt k and Eric Silver
Writer/comedian merritt k joins Ash, Brandon, and guest host Eric Silver to figure out why Pokemon games look bad now, why Insert Credit doesn’t talk about Nintendo, and the LeBron James of Video Games. Hosted by Eric Silver, with Ash Parrish, Brandon Sheffield, and merritt k. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Atari Jaguar Chun-Li Juri Elena Jackbox Party Pack Mario Party Princess Daisy Fighters Megamix 1 : Will mainline Pokemon games ever not look like garbo again? (04:00) Pokémon main RPG series Pokemon Legends: Z-A Pikachu Mario Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury Roblox Pokemon: Let’s Go Pikachu! The Legend of Zelda series 2 : What is the best sword or gun in video game history? (10:10) Squall Leonhart Gunblade Greedy: Notes from a Bisexual Who Wants Too Much Gackt The Doohickey <a href
Mon, March 10, 2025
Ep. 380 - Gamer Oil
The finest minds in video games assess their feelings on the current state of the medium, how best to scam gamers, and Midwest Zelda. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: 1 : How do you feel about video games right now? (05:53) D.I.C.E. Summit Doom Duke Nukem Bundle of Joy Indika Xbox Live Arcade Super Nintendo Entertainment System Nintendo Switch Gears of War series Grand Theft Auto series Uncharted: The Lost Legacy 2 : Rank these from best to worst: the x button, the o button, the square button, and the triangle button. (15:22) Super Mario World Sega Genesis NBA Jam Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice Awesome Games Done Quick’s adorable dog speedrun was just the start 3 : What’s the difference between a ROLE playing game, a role PLAYING game, and a role playing GAME? (20:08) Super Monkey Ball series Baldur’s Gate series Roll Kairosoft Co.,Ltd Fallout series Batm
Mon, March 03, 2025
Ep. 379 - Charmy Bee Is a Freak
After being assigned the task of playing Knuckles’ Chaotix with their romantic partners, our panel returns with questions and opinions. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Mighty the Armadillo Charmy Bee Vector the Crocodile Sonic the Hedgehog Espio the Chameleon 1 : How was everyone’s Knuckles: Chaotix experience? (02:25) Knuckles’ Chaotix Sonic Crackers Knuckles the Echidna 2 : Explain Knuckles Chaotix (07:24) Sonic the Hedgehog 3 : What did you think of the boss fights? (13:11) Dr. Robotnik Sonic the Hedgehog 2 4 : Let’s talk about the 32X, and the bonus stages (19:03) Sega 32X Jaguar After Burner Complete Amazing Spider-Man: Web of Fire BC Racers Blackthorne Brutal: Above the Claw Corpse Killer Cosmic Carnage Doom Knuckles’ Chaotix Kolibri <a href="https
Mon, February 24, 2025
Ep. 378 - Old Weird Game Feast 2, with John Linneman
DigitalFoundry’s John Linneman joins Brandon Sheffield once again to delve into their video game collections, and contemplate liquid-cooled 3DOs, India-exclusive PS2 games, and the sensation of removing $300 worth of cellophane. Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, with John Linnemann. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. SHOW NOTES: 1 : Tomak: Save the Earth Again (02:44) GP32 Tomak: Save the Earth PC Genjin 2 : Pyramid Intruder (06:32) Mega LD LaserDisc 3DO The Hive Scavenger 4 FM Towns Marty Silpheed Sega CD 3 : Congo: The Movie: The Lost City of Zinj (11:56) Congo Jurassic Park Michael Crichton Sega Saturn John Romero’s Daikatana 4 : Thexder (15:14) IBM 8086 Nintendo Entertainment System Grandia: Digital Museum 5 : First Kiss Monogatari (19:34) PC-FX Battle Heat! Cutie Honey <
Mon, February 17, 2025
Ep. 377 - Even More Games of the Year 2024, with Kris Graft
Friend of the show Kris Graft joins Ash and Brandon diving into the rest of 2024’s games, from GOTY contenders to Soccer 2: The Even More Beautiful Game. Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, with Ash Parrish and Kris Graft. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: 1 : Dragon Age: The Veilguard (03:48) Dragon Age: The Veilguard Dragon Age series Football Manager series 2 : Helldivers II (12:03) Helldivers II 3 : S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl (15:04) Balatro Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II Stellar Blade S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl Sam Barlow Dear Esther Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 4 : Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure (19:15) Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure 5 : Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II (20:48) Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II Indika 6 : Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics (23:50) Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics Capcom vs. SNK 2: Mark of the Millennium
Mon, February 10, 2025
Ep. 376 - Game of the Year 2024
Frank Cifaldi of the Video Game History Foundation, Ash Parrish of The Verge, and Brandon Sheffield of Necrosoft Games choose and rank the twenty-one best video games of the year 2024. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Credit Report (03:42) Balatro Cryptmaster UFO 50 Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League 1 : Frank’s first nomination (09:45) Neva Gris Nomada Studio Fumito Ueda Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater HowLongToBeat.com 2 : Ash’s first nomination (14:06) Mouthwashing 3 : Brandon’s first nomination (19:47) Astro Bot Astro’s Playroom Ape Escape Super Mario series Astro Bot is the game you buy a PS5 for The Game Awards 4 : Frank’s second nomination (24:26) Derek Yu UFO 50 Steam Deck GameMaker Digital Eclipse Software, Inc. MSX <a href=
Wed, February 05, 2025
Insert Credit Gaiden #10 - Brandon in Tokyo, 2024
Brandon Sheffield roams the streets and parties of Tokyo Game Show 2024, interviewing famous developers, spotting soba restaurants affiliated with drift tracks, and espousing the beauty of Neo Geo Pocket sprites. Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, with Christian Whitehead, Paul Veer, Hunter Bridges, Yohan Leclerc, Brad Flick, Dylan Cuthbert, and KC. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Chapters: starting things off with caveats (00:24) a town called suwa (01:19) christian whitehead , are you sonic’s step dad? (14:31) paul veer , tell us about fuga memories of steel (23:13) hunter bridges , say what you were trying to do with the neo geo pocket emulator (28:43) yohan leclerc, what do you think about the encroaching AI problem? (35:10) brad flick , tell us about dialogue editing (40:09) running into dylan cuthbert on the train (46:59) the process for getting a business pass at tokyo game show (01:07:59) kc , what happened to your other chair? (01:10:37) last day in tokyo (01:13:35) mission success (01:15:56) Insert Credit Gaiden is brought to you by patrons like you . Thank you. Subscribe: RSS , Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and more!
Mon, February 03, 2025
Ep. 375 - Like a Destiny, with Ed Zitron
Journalist, podcaster, and PR person Ed Zitron joins the panel for the reveal of the Video Game History Museum Library, how to tell when a PR person is lying, and a precise rundown of how fucked video games are. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Brandon Sheffield, and Ed Zitron. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Alien: Romulus (2024) Aliens (1986) Alien vs. Predator (2004) Predator (1987) Kirby Toad Abba-Zabba Nintendo DS Birdo Credit Report (05:01) 1 : Aaron Stewart-Ahn asks, have you ever gotten in serious trouble playing a multiplayer game? (05:12) Star Wars Galaxies Second Life EverQuest Habbo Hotel 2 : Frank, tell us about the newly online Video Game History Museum Library (11:01) The Video Game History Museum Library Digital Eclipse What’s Up? Nintendo Power Myst Riven: The Sequel to Myst OCR Diehard GameFan id Software Atari Jaguar Game Developer
Mon, January 27, 2025
Ep. 374 - Cage Rage Gauge, with Aaron Stewart-Ahn
Screenwriter Aaron Stewart-Ahn joins a panel guest hosted by Esper to cover the current definition of “good graphics,” Nicholas Cage’s sublime beauty, and seeing Attack of the Clones on acid. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Fenrir Light Cycle Tron (1982) Kingdom Hearts II Tron Honda Motocompo Shadows of the Damned Mandy (2018) Yaiba Kusanagi CT-3X Cyberpunk 2077 Keanu Reeves Arch Motorcycle Alex Winter Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989) Gran Turismo Polyphony Digital Tourist Trophy: The Real Riding Simulator Road Rash Sega Saturn Sony Playstation 3DO Full Throttle 1 : Where are your favorite places to hang out in open world video games? (06:20) Throne and Liberty Fallout 76 The First Descendant Wor
Mon, January 20, 2025
Ep. 373 - Switch Boy Advance
Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield assemble to cover the Switch 2, video game console Marxism, and the shocking return of our most controversial segment. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Mount & Blade: Warband Infinity Nikki Dropout.tv Picross series Frédéric Chopin Live 105 1 : merritt k asks, which 90s platformer mascots do you think will never get a cash-in nostalgia-baiting revival? (03:31) Awesome Possum Kicks Dr. Machino’s Butt Greendog: The Beached Surfer Dude! Boogerman: A Pick and Flick Adventure Ristar Wild Woody Congo: The Movie - Descent into Zinj Congo (1995) Tim Curry Sackboy Astro Bot Malice Whiplash Shadow of the Colossus Mario Pauline Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island Supper Mario Broth 2 : How bout that Switch 2? (09:37) <a href="https://www.timeextension.com/news/2025/01/3do-i
Mon, January 13, 2025
Ep. 372 - Dracula Jerky, with merritt k
Writer, game designer, and friend of the show merritt k joins the panel to discuss GDQ runs, the Radiohead of video games, and skeleton bone boobs. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, Brandon Sheffield, and merritt k. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: alexjaffe.bsky.social frankcifaldi.bsky.social adashtra.bsky.social brandon.insertcredit.com merrittk.com mastodon.social dril 1 : If you had to design and perform a gimmicky GDQ speedrun, what would it be? (05:13) Games Done Quick New Super Mario Bros. Wii While Playing Piano by Wes in 41:20 - Awesome Games Done Quick 2025 Bucephalus Elden Ring Peanut Butter the Dog Gyromite Ken Griffey Jr Presents Major League Baseball Ken Griffey Jr. Presents MLB by Peanut Butter the Dog & JSR_ in 29:48 - Summer Games Done Quick 2024 Elden Ring on Saxophone by Dr. Doot in 29:22 - Awesome Games Done Quick 2025 ALF Sonic & Knuckles Star Control 3 2 : What are the popular games within the monsterfucking community? (12:03) Sonic the Hedgehog Sonic the Werehog Wolf
Mon, January 06, 2025
Ep. 371 - Insert Credit Annual #6
As has become tradition, Insert Credit ranks the best games of all time, or at least 87% of them: the ones the industry won’t sell you anymore. Plus, the first ever spending of credits on Insert Credit Show. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: The Boss 87% Missing: the Disappearance of Classic Video Games PC Engine Sega Saturn OutRun: Online Arcade Asuka 120% series Ga-rou-den Breakblow Ribbit King NiGHTS into Dreams… Spec Ops: The Line Rain Jerks Lost Odyssey Bloodborne Nintendo Wii Nintendo DS Nintendo 3DS 1 : Round 1 - Frank’s First Nomination (08:13) Rock Band Guitar Hero series Rock Band 4 Stone Temple Pilots Soundgarden Alice in Chains 2 : Round 1 - Ash’s First Nomination (13:08) Concord Foamstars Suicide Squad: Kill t
Mon, December 30, 2024
Ep. 370 - Holiday Question Hole Special
The three finest minds in video games plumb the depths of our listener-submitted Question Hole, dredging up all manner of holiday cheer, the Floridafication of America, and the return of Seaman. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Barbara Walters 20/20 1 : Tradegood asks, what is the best video game to play on a first date? (03:04) New Super Mario Bros. Overwatch League Love Letter 2 : Kiko B asks, aside from jumping and running, what are the most important verbs in a platform game? Are there any that don’t get the attention they deserve? (06:28) 3 : Breadytodie asks, which is the better racing game series: Initial D or Wangan Midnight? (07:34) Initial D series Wangan Midnight series Motohiro Kawashima Yuzo Koshiro Densha de Go! series 4 : Goonbag asks, what’s the most shame you have ever experienced playing a video game? (08:48) Duke Nukem Forever Call of Duty series 5 : Hobart Painsborough asks, why do so many games lie to the player when they say “press any button to continue” when in reality “any button” does not, in fact, allow you to continue? (11:23) 6 : A small rabite asks, is the Mana series the most mismanaged Square-Enix franchise? (12:43) Mana series Final Fantasy series Ehrgeiz: God Bless the Ring <a h
Mon, December 23, 2024
Ep. 369 - Wednesday Difficulty, with Chris Remo
Composer, designer, and puzzler Chris Remo joins the panel to cover how specific instruments evoke moods in games, Mad Libs as branching path narrative, and VR’s Myst problem. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, Brandon Sheffield, and Chris Remo. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Metroidvania Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins A Christmas Carol Charles Dickens Scrooged (1988) The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) Die Hard (1988) A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) Vince Guaraldi Sesame Street A Christmas Story (1983) How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966) Elf (2003) The Elf on the Shelf Will Ferrell Thurl Ravenscroft The Nutcracker English National Ballet San Francisco Ballet 1 : What’s the right way to modulate crossword puzzle difficulty? (06:04) The New York Times crossword puzzle Will Shortz 2 : What particular moods or vibes in video game soundtracks are most closely associated with specific instruments? (12:24) Vibrato <a href="https:/
Mon, December 16, 2024
Ep. 368 - Are You There, God? It's Me, The Witcher
Frank, Ash and Brandon design games based on historical events, explain the plot of Earth Defense Force, and discover why women have hollow bones. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Madame Web (2024) Morbius (2022) Venom (2018) Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2021) Venom: The Last Dance (2024) Eminem original Venom rap Glyceo the Destroyer Lucius Aurelius Maximus Arelius Caesar Minumus Caesar Agustus Hannibal Scipio Africanus The Pope Assassin’s Creed series Games where the final boss is the pope Final Fantasy XIV Final Fantasy XIII Nights of Azure series Final Fantasy Tactics Rodrigo Borgia The Young Pope Anti-Pope Psycho-Pirate Doctor Fate Marv Wolfman <a href="https://insertcredit
Mon, December 09, 2024
Ep. 367 - Rings Aren't Coins
our Insert Credit Panel covers how a video game might be political, new games for dead consoles, and the Jaffe Cut of Rocky Horror Picture Show. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) “Penis breath” clip Tetris Spelling Bee Sub Hunt PalmPilot Katamari Damacy Guitar Hero series Circus Madden series Call of Duty series Mortal Kombat series Ms. Pac-Man Sonic the Hedgehog series The Lion King Wordle Words With Friends Myst Military Madness AKA Nectaris Advance Wars Mega Man Bayou Billy 1 : Are all video games inherently political? (04:58) Circus Game & Watch Wide Screen: Fire Animal Well <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/group/380/metal-gear-series/"
Mon, December 02, 2024
Ep. 366 - Xboxen
The full Insert Credit panel covers what Xboxes are, Fatal Fury movie casting, and dog football. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Mr. Bones Mr. Bones by Lizstar in 1:12:00 - Awesome Games Done Quick Mr. Bones shirt Cyber Monday Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024) Yuji Naka Naoto Ohshima Sonic Knuckles Tails Dr. Robotnik Yasushi Yamaguchi Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Shadow Sonic the Hedgehog (2020) Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (2022) Charles Pulliam-Moore The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) Jaleel White Steve Urkel Credit Report (04:06) 1 : Is this podcast an Xbox? (04:48) Xbox Xbox continues its push beyond consoles with new ad campaign Microsoft’s next Xbox, coming 2028, envisions hybrid computing <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/232763/call-of-duty-b
Mon, November 25, 2024
Ep. 365 - Post-Crisis Sonic 2
The finest panel in video games covers Sony buying Kadokawa, relitigates what counts as games versus DLC, and brings you the exclusive reveal of the Nintendo Listo. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Viewtiful Joe Bob & George SMS Power Forums FanFiction.Net Warlock - World of Warcraft Forums World of WarCraft Neo Geo Pocket 1 : Brandon, two years ago when Microsoft bought Blizzard Activision, you proposed something that would be really funny that Sony could do to retaliate. Do you remember what it was? (05:35) Microsoft completes Activision Blizzard acquisition FromSoftware parent company confirms Sony’s acquisition interest Spike Chunsoft Acquire Octopath Traveler Tenchu series Shinobi series Stray Demon’s Souls Morbius (2022) George R. R. Martin PaRappa the Rapper Kingdom Hearts series Playstation All Stars Battle Royale Danganronpa
Mon, November 18, 2024
Ep. 364 - Way More Chooms, with Kieron Gillen
Author and journalist Kieron Gillen joins the panel to cover the golden age of games journalism, Squaresoft’s 1996 SNES licensed X-Men JRPG, and the mysterious Hat Man. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, Brandon Sheffield, and Kieron Gillen. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Riders on the Storm Ghost Riders in the Sky The Doors Ghost Rider 2: Spirit of Vengeance (2011) Mutant Amiga Power Eisner Awards Hugo Award Amiga Mister Sinister 1 : What’s the difference between game culture and comics culture? (04:44) Jack Kirby Twine Al Ewing Marvel Cinematic Universe Gamergate (harassment campaign) Sad Puppies Jim Rossignol 2 : In tabletop game design, how do you make a game that allows players to do anything, while maintaining a unique identity? (10:03) Mörk Borg OSR Dungeons & Dragons Baldurs Gate III Baldur’s Gate 3 is a masterpiece built on a bad tabletop game 3 : What’s the closest a video game has come to ruining your life? (17:19) <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/15620/world-of-warcra
Mon, November 11, 2024
Ep. 363 - Love in the Time of Dragons
Your new Insert Credit panel, now including Ash Parrish of The Verge, discusses Dragon Age fanfiction, the best video game music of the last ten years, and a Spice Girls nude code. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Brandon Sheffield, and Ash Parrish. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: The beginning of this episode features some words from Brandon Sheffield on personal loss, the election, and what we can do going forward. The usual intro begins at (09:01). Thank you. Vincent Diamante Game Developer Magazine Demonschool Video Game History Foundation The Verge Gojo Industries Dandadan Momo Ayase Bundle for Ukraine The Insert Credit Forums 1 : Have video games completely realized the concept of importing your data from one game to the next? (20:59) Assassin’s Creed series Legend of Zelda series Yakuza series Golden Sun series Mass Effect series Pokémon series Dragon Age series 2 : What do people really mean when they talk about learning curves? (27:46) Super Mario series Metroid series Crusader Kings III <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/group/22/si
Mon, November 04, 2024
Ep. 362 - Official Mario Bong, with Mathew Kumar
Game designer and author Mathew Kumar joins a panel guest hosted by editor Esper Quinn to cover famous famiclones, the latest in Nintendo developments, and Tommy Tallarico’s unexpected ascent into backgammon legend. Hosted by Esper Quinn, with Frank Cifaldi, Brandon Sheffield, and Mathew Kumar. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch episodes with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Snake Eater (Live at Symphony Hall) Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater Sonic Mania Sonic Mania OST - Studiopolis Act 2 Snow Surfers OST - Ronnie’s Theme Rippin’ Riders alpha’s video game drum and bass music playlist Bomberman Hero Jun Chikuma Saori Kobayashi Sylvan Tale Panzer Dragoon Sylvan Tale シルヴァンテイル組曲/Compose&Arrange：小林早織 Every Game I’ve Finished 14>24 by Mathew Kumar Yakuza 4 Makoto Date Yakuza 4 Theme “For Faith” (with lyrics) 1 : merritt k asks, what are some of the more interesting bootleg or knockoff consoles? (06:50) Pegasus famiclone Nintendo Entertainment System EA FIFA series Battletank Circus Charlie <a href="h
Mon, October 28, 2024
Ep. 361 - Specdracular 2024, with merritt k
Writer and game designer merritt k joins the Insert Credit panel on the most haunted podcast of the year, delving into how one really evokes fear in games, Skibidi Toilet costumes, and vampire streaming services. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Brandon Sheffield, and merritt k. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Watch this episode with full video on YouTube Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) The Thing (1982) John Carpenter Sonic the Hedgehog Halloween (1978) Warhammer 40,000 Fledgling Manor Guys: Episode 27 The Mist (2007) The Fog (1980) The Exorcist III (1990) The Exorcist (1973) Exorcist II: The Heretic (1977) Jamie Lee Curtis Ryu 1 : What’s the most you were ever scared by a video game? (08:34) Resident Evil 2 Silent Hill Cloverfield (2008) Silent Hill 2 Silent Hill 3 Phantasy Star Wizardry Resident Evil 4 Amnesia series </l
Tue, October 22, 2024
insert credit #360: tim rogers enjoys 36 xbox 360 games
View the full video for this episode on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fi7Sfj3quMA 00:00 - introduction 20:06 - #36 22:53 - #35 25:26 - #34 27:50 - #33 30:29 - #32 33:03 - #31 25:41 - #30 38:27 - #29 41:08 - #28 43:50 - #27 46:30 - #26 48:54 - #25 51:56 - #24 54:16 - #23 56:50 - #22 59:41 - #21 1:02:23 - #20 1:04:39 - #19 1:07:07 - #18 1:09:54 - #17 1:12:31 - #16 1:15:03 - #15 1:17:25 - #14 1:19:51 - #13 1:22:38 - #12 1:25:06 - #11 1:27:46 - #10 1:30:26 - #9 1:33:11 - #8 1:36:08 - #7 1:39:02 - #6 1:41:49 - #5 1:44:32 - #4 1:47:07 - #3 1:49:40 - #2 + #1 2:00:44 - outroduction This week’s Insert Credit Show is brought to you by patrons like you . Thank you. Subscribe: RSS , YouTube , Apple Podcasts , Spotify , and more!
Mon, October 14, 2024
Ep. 359 - Be Curious, with Ash Parrish
Ash Parrish of The Verge returns as host to implement new segments, consider community Halo grievances, and weigh evidence that Frank might have been the first person to ever draw a dick in Pictochat. Hosted by Ash Parrish, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Commodore 64 Jet-Boys Overwatch League New York Excelsior “Ante Up” clip M.O.P. - Ante Up (Official Music Video) New jack swing Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas Tempo DK Rap DK Rap Composer Chap hop Fighting Trousers - Professor Elemental Mr.B The Gentleman Rhymer Math rock Nerdcore MC Chris MC Frontalot Eminem Penny Arcade Gorillaz PaRappa the Rapper Andy Schatz LMFAO - Shots ft. Lil Jon Parable of the Sower Ursula K. Le Guin Octavia E. Butler <a href="htt
Mon, October 07, 2024
Ep. 358 - Soak the Hippo, Save the World, with Ash Parrish
Reporter for The Verge Ash Parrish guests hosts our panel as they correctly guess the discourse around Zelda and Dragon Age, briefly review Megalopolis, and develop a free exclusive phrase you can use! Hosted by Ash Parrish, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Portland Retro Gaming Expo Atari Jeff Minter Llama Alpaca What Is a ‘Beige Flag’? Nosferatu Lumetri scope r/Vexillology Gadsden flag Honey badger Rainbow flag Purdue University Indiana University 1 : Are there any games that take heavily from Jewish mythology? (11:01) Dante’s Inferno Inferno Castle Wolfenstein series Noah’s Ark Exile Raji: An Ancient Epic Black Myth: Wukong Journey to the West Dream of the Red Chamber Romance of the Three Kingdoms Water Margin One Thousand and One Nights <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/56923/majin-and-the
Sun, September 29, 2024
Ep. 357 - Playing Nice, with Jason Schreier
Journalist and author of Play Nice: The Rise, Fall, and Future of Blizzard Entertainment Jason Schreier sits for an interview on Blizzard’s many transformations, diversity scores, and what ultimately happened to Starcraft Ghost and Project Titan. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Jason Schreier. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Happy Rosh Hashanah ! Yom Kippur Hanukkah Sukkot Simchat Torah Shemini Atzeret 1 : Was there something about Blizzard in particular that made you want to write a book? (03:21) Acquisition of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft Press Reset: Ruin and Recovery in the Video Game Industry WarCraft series StarCraft series Diablo series 2 : Did you actually interview more than three hundred people for this book over three years? (06:19) EverQuest Leeroy Jenkins 3 : Was there anyone you couldn’t get an interview with? (07:45) 4 : What was your personal investment in Blizzard before writing this book? (08:22) WarCraft III: Reign of Chaos StarCraft: Brood War The Lost Vikings Norse by Norse West: The Return of the Lost Vikings World of WarCraft 5 : How wou
Mon, September 23, 2024
Ep. 356 - Zeus's Mistress, with ThorHighHeels
Video essayist and composer ThorHighHeels joins video game historian Frank Cifaldi to answer questions about the Dreamcast’s legacy, the PS5 Pro, and penis worms. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi and ThorHighHeels. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Dreamcast ThorHighHeels Grammy Awards Question 1 : What does the Dreamcast represent? (02:04) Vaporwave Shenmue Pixies Up close with Sony’s PS5 Pro — and the 30th Anniversary model Sega Genesis Penny’s Big Breakaway Penny Hardaway Xbox PlayStation 4 The Last of Us: Part II PlayStation Question 2 : Is it ever worth getting the Pro version of a console? (07:28) PlayStation 3 models PlayStation 2 models Nintendo 3DS Nintendo Switch Game Boy Advance SP Nintendo Entertainment System Mario’s Tribal Tattoo Cybersigilism Nirvana Mark Cerny Question 3 : When in your experience have recent video games been most nakedly attempting to generate a meme? (12:56) <
Mon, September 16, 2024
Insert Credit Gaiden #9 - Flapjacks and Threena
While our panel is scattered, enjoy a Bonus Credit-style arrangement of good conversation among brilliant friends. Featuring Frank’s SDCC misadventures, Brandon’s X-Men 97 opinions, and Tim’s pitch for the Bioshock movie. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: The Insert Credit Patreon Horrifying Knowledge Regarding the Flapjack (00:54) Brandon summons Frank specifically to inform him of another appalling revelation regarding the insidious British. Having a very normal morning on this very normal day. , the forum thread Brandon mentions Flapjack Pancake Granola Ep. 348: Pre-show (07:12) Frank is going to a cereal panel at San Diego Comic Con. Jaffe got a job as the official Question Answerer in the DC Comics Official Discord Server, and got Cool Gel Foam Headphone Pads. Tim demonstrates his lowly stature with his blown-out headphones, as a visual gag. Sylvester the Cat Tweety Mel Blanc Rabbit Fire Daffy Duck Looney Tunes Golden Collection Ep. 348: Extended break (11:20) Mimsy has excellent comic timing. Brandon needs a haircut. Frank would listen to some nerds talk about there being too much Star Trek, but is avoiding the Browncoat Meeting Room. Jaffe wonders what a Firefly fan is even like in 2024. Jim Henson is back now. We don’t know if Nurse Nancy can revive people from the dead. Warner Bros Discovery Mulling Split To Boost Stock Price Star Trek Firefly Browncoat The Rookie <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nathan_Fillio
Mon, September 09, 2024
Ep. 355 - Burger Ring'd By Astro Boy
Your Insert Credit Panel takes a look at the failure of Concord, finds the Normandy Beach of Racing Games, and gets ready to Wake n’ Quake. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Question 1 : Which games have the nicest fans, and which games have the smartest fans? (04:07) Can You Pet the Dog? Brandon Boyer Katamari Damacy Annapurna Interactive Zachtronics 4X The Sims series Pokémon series Fighting game community Question 2 : What’s the most you’ve been hurt by a video game? (10:45) 3DO Interactive Multiplayer Playstation 2 Clash Royale Panzer Dragoon Castlevania: Symphony of the Night Incredible Crisis Mario Party series Splatoon series Super Smash Brothers series Question 3 : Let’s talk about Concord. Have we seen the death of multiplayer shooters outside the free to play model? (16:43) Sony is taking Concord offline on September 6th after disastrous launch Concord grape Concord Jeff Gerstmann <a href="https://www.mob
Mon, September 02, 2024
Ep. 354 - FunkoStop
Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield convene once again to eulogize Game Informer, give Tim Walz more Dreamcast games, and declare themselves Clown Man. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Centipede Berkeley Bowl West Concord Half Price Books Question 1 : Game Informer is dead. Let’s talk about it. (03:17) Game Informer GameStop Sega Saturn FuncoLand Funko Castlevania: Symphony of the Night PC Gamer GameSpot IGN Polygon Kotaku GameStop pivots to retro gaming at select locations Magical Chase LaserActive Question 2 : What was the last game you bought in a store? (10:16) Final Fantasy XVI Batman: Arkham City Lost Planet 2 Final Fantasy IX Apollo Theater Final Fantasy XV Oculus Rift The Last Guardian Wii U <a href="https://www.mobyga
Mon, August 26, 2024
Ep. 353 - Selfish Survival, with Holly Nielsen
Historian, writer, and narrative designer Holly Nielsen joins Alex and Brandon to cover 19th century party games, Ayn Rand’s The Bachelorette, and David Attenborough narrating Monster Hunter. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Brandon Sheffield and Holly Nielsen. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Ridge Racer series Question 1 : Based on the state of play in the 19th century, which modern video games would past audiences enjoy the most? (03:03) The Jackbox Party Pack Hidden in Plain Sight Quiplash Sid Meier’s Civilization series Mary Todd Lincoln Hearthstone: Heroes of WarCraft Question 2 : Y’all seen the news lately? (07:20) The video game industry is mourning the loss of Game Informer Game Informer Edge Fortnite Minecraft Roblox A pivotal online hub for ROM hacks goes news-only after two decades Archive.org Hugh Jackman Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) Unusual Duels Vol 1: The Princess Vs. The Countess Arthur Conan Doyle Cottingley Fairies Question 3 : What were the most successful video games of the 16 and 32 bit eras to come from countries that didn’t dominate the market? (17:30) <a href="https
Mon, August 19, 2024
Ep. 352 - Poster's Delight
Insert Credit reunites to contemplate The Perfect Jump, share earnest pitches for the Bioshock movie, and witness the long-awaited (and possibly last ever) Violence Island Tournament of Champions. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums View this episode on YouTube SHOW NOTES: Air Bud Rocket League Question 1 : Why do we see floatiness in games as a bad thing? (02:04) Super Mario Bros. 2 The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Gunsport Fez Kirby games Hollow Knight Super Ghouls ’N Ghosts Question 2 : Design a brand new status effect that has never been in a game. (07:45) Crypto Bro Cryptocurrency Bitcoin Ryū ga Gotoku / Like a Dragon / Yakuza series Gears of War Mario Kart 8 Question 3 : What cost-saving measures would you recommend for the Bioshock film? (13:51) ‘Bioshock’ Movie Still in the Works With Reduced Budget BioShock The Shape of Water (2017) Guillermo del Toro Cabinet of curiosities <a
Mon, August 12, 2024
Ep. 351 - Dirtbag von Doom
The panel answers listener questions buried deep at the bottom of our Patreon bag of dirt, and in the process concept Brawl Playing Games, remake The Princess Bride, and gain a time bonus! Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Pikablu Pokémon series Phantasy Star IV Phantasy Star NESticle True Detective Destiny’s Child Dragon Quest series Akira Toriyama Chrono Trigger Ruby Weapon Final Fantasy VII Imagine Games Network Sailor Moon Bishōjo Senshi Sailor Moon Panzer Dragoon Saga AOL Question 1: MVB asks can a sports game be good enough to get people into the real sport? (07:55) Gran Turismo series Call of Duty: Modern Warfare series 2024 Summer Olympics Gran Turismo (2023) Lewis Hamilton Super Monaco GP Madden series Haikyu!! NBA 2K series <li
Mon, August 05, 2024
Ep. 350 - The Great Insert Credit Ranking Show
Insert Credit ranks Street Fighter, Metal Gear Solid, Mega Man, Fallout, Doom, and Disaster Report’s mainline games to find the best of each series. Plus, a snake fact! Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: Street Fighter series Castlevania series Dragon Quest series Quest 64 Bonk series Ridge Racer series Brandon’s Snake Fact Corner (03:50) Night of the Cobra Woman (1972) Roger Corman Marlene Clark Joy Bang King cobra Ranking One: Street Fighter series (06:57) (View the finalized Street Fighter series rankings right here on insertcredit.com ) Street Fighter II Street Fighter II Turbo Super Street Fighter II Street Fighter II: Champion Edition Super Street Fighter II Turbo Dee Jay Cammy T. Hawk Fei Long Street Fighter Virtua Fighter series Bruce Lee S
Mon, July 29, 2024
Ep. 349 - Crab Up, Squad! with Simon Parkin
The New Yorker and The Observer’s Simon Parkin joins the panel to cover a new angle in game genres, the legacy of Segata Sanshiro, and aesthetic crevices. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Simon Parkin. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums SHOW NOTES: DVD MiSTer FPGA Spacewar Nintendo 64 Wii Link’s Crossbow Training Wii Fit Dreamcast Donkey Konga Let’s Tap Wii Music Mad Maestro! Chainsaw Controller Hori Dragon Quest Slime Controller Question 1: What’s the correlation in game design between fun and player freedom? (03:55) Hirokazu Yasuhara Sonic the Hedgehog series Sokoban Grand Theft Auto III Fallout series SEGA Sports games Just Cause series Ryū ga Gotoku / Like a Dragon / Yakuza series Warren Spector Uncharted series The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom <a href="
Sun, July 21, 2024
Ep. 348 - Brain Hat
Frank, Tim and Brandon increase replay value, examine trendy new Mario 64 opinions, and search google for sgdq 2024 recommendations reddit. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What differentiates a good turn-based battle system from a bad one? (05:15) How do you maximize “replay value” in a single player game? (14:15) How do you start watching GDQ? (19:44) If you had to choose a doctor from a video game to be your GP, who would it be? (30:05) Spencergifs asks: What are the greatest video game menus? (37:21) What is something you once believed video games would have gotten around to by now, but still haven’t? (45:25) Which four games best represent the four conflicts of man vs. man, man vs. self, man vs. society, and man vs. nature? (52:52) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As - Stardew Valley (55:17) Recommendations and Outro (59:12) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Daffy Duck Looney Tunes Golden Collection Sylvester the Cat Tweety Rabbit Fire Legend of Zelda series Zork Landstalker Chain Chomp The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening Super Mario series The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Question 1: What differentiates a good turn-based battle system from a bad one? Final Fantasy Tactics Tactics Ogre Valkyria Chronicles <a href="https://store.steampowered.
Mon, July 15, 2024
Ep. 347 - Drake's Retaliation
The Insert Credit Panel as you know and love them covers video game history, the Kendrick Lamar-Drake Feud, and one more trip to Violence Island. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Frank, the original Resident Evil is back from the dead. What took so long? (03:56) What has never been good in a video game? (09:58) If all knowledge of video games disappeared overnight but games themselves still existed, what would the most popular one be? (18:14) Insert Credit Quick Break: Mannequin Deposit by The Houseflies (28:06) BluntForceMama asks: What properties or statistics about a game should be listed on the back of the box, Nutrition Facts style? (29:28) How do you name a video game character? (37:07) What is the Not Like Us of video games? (42:04) LIGHTNING ROUND: Violence Island (48:00) Recommendations and Outro (01:01:01) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: NPR Video Game History Foundation Game Developer Game Developer Magazine “Minecraft” cover The original Resident Evil is back from the dead. What took so long? Resident Evil “It’s Just Emulation!”: The Challenge of Selling Old Games (Frank Cifaldi’s GDC 2016 talk) Resident Evil on GOG.com Frank Sinatra Spotify Sega CD 3DO Interactive Multiplayer Sega Saturn Sega Genesis Resident Evil 4 Ico <a href="https://www.mobyga
Mon, July 08, 2024
Ep. 346 - America! Hamburger! with Simone de Rochefort
Supervising Video Producer at Polygon Simone de Rochefort fills in on a star-spangled extravaganza of reward explosions, Turbo Tunnel confinement, and Sonic pogging. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Simone de Rochefort. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Brandon asks: Isn’t it kind of cool that you can buy an Xbox One and a bunch of games that aren’t exactly old for pretty cheap? (06:36) Since Super Mario Bros, have we ever come up with anything better than pixelated fireworks to congratulate a player for completing an objective? (13:44) What is pogging? (16:27) What are some of the most important written documents in video game history? (22:17) If the Republic of Gamers was a real place, what would its code of law and justice system be like? (30:50) Insert Credit Quick Break: Mannequin Deposit by The Houseflies (36:18) TheFragranceofDarkCoffee asks: When and where would you set a Yakuza game in the United States? (37:40) Is democracy good for video games? (46:29) What is the most American video game? (51:48) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design - State Nicknames (59:52) Recommendations and Outro (01:10:26) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: William Henry Harrison George Washington Abraham Lincoln Polygon Richard Nixon Adam Sandler NHLPA Hockey ’93 Little Nicky (2000) Barack Obama Ep. 345 - Tater Haters Xbox One Ryū ga Gotoku / Like a Dragon / Yakuza series Red Dead Redemption II Anbernic Final Fantasy XV Hal
Mon, July 01, 2024
Ep. 345 - Tater Haters
Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield cover Alex Jaffe’s questions about SGF showcases, the N64 controller, and DQ slime war crimes. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Ash Parrish asks: What’s your dream Summer Game Fest showcase? (05:46) Why did the Nintendo 64 controller look like that? (14:42) Write a musical about Akihabara twenty years ago. (20:18) Insert Credit Quick Break: Mannequin Deposit by The Houseflies (47:25) Ponda asks: Which video games feature the best eating animations, and why is this difficult? (28:18) Which standard 52 playing card deck game has the best game design? (34:56) When has a game company returning to its roots most paid off? (40:06) LIGHTNING ROUND: Soda Jerk - Car Companies (45:14) Recommendations and Outro (52:15) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: The Matrix (1999) Zion Jem Ready Player One The Matrix Resurrections (2021) The Matrix Online The Animatrix (2003) MultiVersus PC Gaming Show 2024 Devolver Direct: The Return of Volvy An Update from M-Corp (Skate 4 sketch) Sam Richardson Henry Cavill Man of Steel (2013) The Witcher Argylle (2024) Cyberpunk 2077 - Keanu Reeves On Stage Nintendo 64 controller </li
Sun, June 23, 2024
Ep. 344 - The Bait & Switch, with Ash Parrish
Journalist Ash Parrish of The Verge joins Frank and Jaffe for Nintendo Direct thoughts, Elden Ring as a retelling of Inuyasha, and playersexual companions. Plus, why Marvel vs. Capcom 2 is so important, by Patrick Miller . Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi and Ash Parrish. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.
Mon, June 17, 2024
Ep. 343 - The Invention of Teabagging, with Esper Quinn
Editor Esper Quinn hosts the best panel in video games looking at the legacy of Halo, reactions to Summer Game Fest, and the origins of rude crouching. Hosted by Esper Quinn, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Let’s talk about Summer Game Fest and the Xbox Showcase (06:50) What’s your personal experience with the Halo franchise, and how has it impacted video games? (18:48) What game, ultimately, was the Halo Killer? (23:28) Insert Credit Quick Break: The Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center’s production of Titanic, June 21-30th (28:51) Alex Jaffe asks: I need to play the first 3 hours of Demonschool right now. What should I do? (30:07) Is dual wielding just a gimmick, or does it actually have interesting gameplay ramifications? (32:19) What are the warning signs when developing a colorful companion character that they might be annoying? (37:36) Do you think you could be friends with Master Chief in real life? (44:43) LIGHTNING ROUND: Halo Fragrances (50:12) Recommendations and Outro (54:20) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Overwatch Left 4 Dead Minecraft Doom Quake GoldenEye 007 Halo: Combat Evolved Titanfall Halo 2 Wolfenstein 3D Alien: Resurrection Every big announcement and trailer from Summer Game Fest 2024 Everything announced at the Xbox showcase at Summer Game Fest 2024 Gears of War: E-Day trailer Fable trai
Tue, June 11, 2024
Ep. 342 - Asynchronicity 3, with Kate Willaert
Video game historian “Critical Kate” Willaert joins a panel scattered across time to cover lost and ignored media, Blobby’s Bloop Boy, and ladies roaming the street with whips. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Brandon Sheffield, and Kate Willaert. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What kinds of video game history seem to interest you and nobody else? (02:15) What are some of the most surprising video game firsts? (11:10) Which console has the most good games that the least people have played? (16:56) Has anyone discovered an unreleased video game that was actually fun to play? (21:11) Insert Credit Quick Break: Amazing Grace available now on Steam , and Demonschool demo available during Steam NextFest (25:31) SpencerGifts asks: What is the best video game sequence that is no fun? (28:12) Is there a video game experience you missed out on you wish you could have had? (31:42) When shouldn’t you have a pause button? (34:37) What can we learn about women if our only reference point is video games from the 1980’s? (37:23) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Re-Design - Commercial Failures (40:15) Recommendations and Outro (44:14) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins The Bugs Bunny Birthday Blowout Super Mario Bros. 3 The Adventures of Bayou Billy X-Men Disney’s Aladdin Ms. Pac-Man Frogger FM Towns PC-98 PC-88 X68000 From Ragnarok To The New World: An Interview With Hak Kyu Kim <a href
Mon, June 03, 2024
Ep. 341 - Nixon Babies
Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield cover the best of Sunsoft’s Looney Tunes games, soundtracks for emotions and driving, and 256-bit consoles. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Brandon asks: When do you feel like a video game was made for you? (06:19) Should we rank the Sunsoft Looney Tunes games? (13:21) What are the most common lies told in the video game industry? (NOTE: This segment contains MAJOR spoilers for Avengers: Endgame (2019) ) (16:28) What are the best video game tracks to listen to after a breakup? (22:46) Magnanimous asks: If you could double any number in video games, what would it be? (28:46) What do you look for while the credits are rolling on a video game? (34:50) What is the memorizing all state capitals of video games? (41:10) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design - Kentucky Derby Winners (49:19) Recommendations and Outro (57:24) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Atari Lynx Amiga The Bitmap Brothers Oliver Twins Sega Genesis Motorola 6800 3DO Interactive Multiplayer Game Boy Advance SP Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes The Legend of Zelda The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Grim Fandango Final Fantasy VII Panzer Dragoon Saga Ep. 340 - Dog Eyeballs Game Developer Magazine Feb. 2011 “The Minecraft Cover” </li
Mon, May 27, 2024
Ep. 340 - Dog Eyeballs
The leading minds in video games confer on past visual design choices, how bad minigames happen, and the Shenmue MMO, ShenMMO. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Brandon, can you defend this Game Developer Magazine cover ? (08:03) Why do bad minigames happen? (16:39) What have you closed the door on in video games, both recreationally and professionally? (21:50) If you had to wear the same video game t-shirt every day and get complimented on it or you’d die, what would it be? (27:30) Insert Credit Quick Break: Legendary Puns (35:18) Chopemon asks: What video game “booms” have their been? (37:36) What is the getting to the bus stop at the exact same time as your bus of video games? (44:04) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As - Minecraft (49:26) Recommendations and Outro (51:47) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Darkseid DC Heroes & Villains: Match 3 Banjo-Kazooie Super Mario 64 Donkey Kong Country The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Growing Up Sixty-Four Koryo Tours: Pyongyang Racer Game Developer Magazine Feb. 2011 “The Minecraft Cover” Game Developer (magazine) Minecraft Assassin’s Creed series Deadly Premonition Game Developer Magazine Aug. 2010 “The Deadly Premonition Cover” <a href="ht
Mon, May 20, 2024
Ep. 339 - How to Like Video Games
Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield develop a new video game show, up our Tallarico quota, and return to Violence Island. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Let’s try to develop the first episode of Frank’s show with recipes for playing video games (05:30) When have you fallen out of love with a video game you once liked all the way through playing the first time? (18:05) What will the eight episode season one arc be for Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Tomb Raider? (24:43) Luis asks: Was Tetris inevitable? (31:17) Rank these actions from best to worst: sliding, spinning, flipping. (39:10) What is the guy outside of an airport pretending he’s an Uber driver of video games? (43:00) LIGHTNING ROUND: Violence Island (51:39) Recommendations and Outro (01:09:10) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Elden Ring Family Guy MiSTer FPGA Open Broadcaster Software EarthBound Dragon Quest V: Tenkū no Hanayome Final Fantasy VI Elevator Action Returns Soulslike Super Mario Bros. Rolling Thunder Metal Slug Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age Jerry Lewis Freakazoid! Mike Allred Madman Good Eats Passage Jason Rohrer <a href="https://www.mobygames.
Mon, May 13, 2024
Ep. 338 - The Speed of Speed
The panel decides on a strict definition of “isekai,” finds hope for the future of video games, and writes a woke, political Big Bang Theory script. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Brandon asks: Are there any video game sequels like Dino Crisis 2? (06:18) Apart from the racing genre, when is velocity most important in video games? (12:43) What’s the best video game to fit the definition of an Isekai? (17:18) Who is the unluckiest person in video games? (23:57) Insert Credit Quick Break: Meal-Morial Madness 2024 (28:44) Owen from NYC asks: Come up with achievements for the arcade game Asteroids. (30:45) With new reports of massive video game industry layoffs, is the party over? (36:30) Punch up a scene involving video games for The Big Bang Theory (41:06) LIGHTNING ROUND: Team Sonic vs. Team Mario at the Olympic Games (47:41) Recommendations and Outro (01:04:13) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Home Improvement Tim Allen Buzz Lightyear Bergamot Cymbopogon Lavandula Earl Grey tea Shang Tsung Mortal Kombat series Dino Crisis series Final Fantasy XII Final Fantasy XIII Onimusha series BloodRayne series Max Payne series Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse Super Mario Bros. 3 <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/6608/the
Mon, May 06, 2024
Ep. 337 - Holland Oats
Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield divine the difference between spite and guilt, develop a cool season pass, and steal the International Prototype of the Kilogram. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: When did you first start to feel out of touch with the modern gamer? (06:14) What role does spite play in video game development? (11:03) How can developers make the best of it when forced to build a “Season Pass” of post-launch content? (16:47) What’s the most vindicated you’ve ever felt by a video game? (22:17) Insert Credit Quick Break: Amazing Grace available 6/6 at 6:66 PM (27:27) Gaagaagiins asks: What studios best at naming games? (28:52) How do you make stealth good? (36:18) What is the opposite of video games? (41:23) Make a video game about the unit that establishes the pound (43:32) LIGHTNING ROUND: Guess the User Review (47:13) Recommendations and Outro (56:33) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Witch Knuckles the Echidna MLA Handbook The Chicago Manual of Style Alex Jaffe Cursed Problems in Game Design Ep. 186 - Dirtbag Strikes Back, with Alex Jaffe and Mathew Kumar SimCity Ep. 324 - Bocket Tinesters Stellar Blade Rami Ismail Zach Gage Nintendo Power Electronic Gaming Monthly Fear Street Goosebumps EA FIFA series Call of D
Mon, April 29, 2024
Ep. 336 - Defeating the Dirtbag, with Christa Lee
Our most supportive patrons have filled our dirtbag with questions, and only console modification expert Christa Lee can guide our panel through. Hosted by Christa Lee, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by MoxBagel, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Footfoot asks: Is there a single player game particularly suited to group settings? (06:34) Spencers Gifts asks: What are your favorite moments seeing a video game developer’s fingerprints? (13:05) Brindo asks: What are your thoughts on missable items in RPGs? (20:02) Crumar Bones asks: What game series should IO Interactive integrate into a “Hitman Warriors” style game? (27:12) Sneaking Mission asks: If you were to donate a fraudulent piece of video game history to a museum to confuse future historians, what would it be? (34:46) Honky Tonk Tom asks: What are some real world businesses that have GTA-style business names? (41:07) Kiko B asks: What job advice would you give to someone who wants to be an “idea guy?” (50:46) Yeso asks: What would be the gamer version of Gift of the Magi? (57:38) LIGHTNING ROUND: The ___ of Video Games Questions (01:04:26) Recommendations and Outro (01:12:00) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Umihara Kawase series Final Fantasy series E-Prime Remnant II The Last Remnant Johann Sebastian Bach Ludwig van Beethoven King of Dragon Pass Universal Studios Theme Parks Adventure Shenmue Xenogears / Xenosaga universe Mark J. Ferrari Loom MAME Shrek (2001) Psycho Fox</
Sun, April 21, 2024
Ep. 335 - Cyber the Hedgehog
Our beloved panelists guide you through new developments in CRT photo taking, an all-clown Fallout vault, and Keanu Reeves as Shadow. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What’s a feature you appreciate in text-heavy games? (00:42) Frank, how do you achieve the perfect visual representation of what a video game looks like on a CRT? (09:32) Can we nail down a definition for “easter egg?” (15:29) Design a Fallout vault. (21:30) Insert Credit Quick Break: Project 9452, a Texas State trans gaming research study (29:05) Isaac asks: What video game character would you most want to carry around as a Tamagotchi-style virtual pet, and what would their on-device mini games be like? (31:26) When should one consider or avoid early access? (37:52) Keanu Reeves is gonna be Shadow, isn’t that cool? (46:46) LIGHTNING ROUND: Unpopular Demand (52:28) Recommendations and Outro (01:06:48) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Metal Gear series Landstalker Phantasy Star Final Fantasy VII Samurai Shodown V Special Tokimeki Memorial Citizen Sleeper Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Technicolor Easter egg Superman Jimmy Olsen J.J. Abrams Star Trek (2009) R2-D2 The Avengers (2012) Galaga Billy Hatcher
Mon, April 15, 2024
Ep. 334 - On Death Row For Podcasting
Your wise and benevolent Insert Credit panel covers industry shifts caused by Helldivers II, decides the Dreamcast 2 launch lineup, and imagines the gritty Super Monkey Ball: Act Zero. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What can you tell from a video game’s color scheme? (03:42) Which video game has the best original take on what the internet is? (09:17) In games where you pick from an assortment of guys, when do you pick the big guy, and when do you pick the little guy? (15:03) Design a fourth-person shooter. (18:53) rose asks: What would the ideal starting lineup be for the Dreamcast 2? (25:44) Who is the most famous person who could beat you at Street Fighter? (33:01) What is the taking a melatonin and drinking a caffeinated beverage of video games? (38:37) LIGHTNING ROUND: Console Genre Associations (44:02) Recommendations and Outro (51:35) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: O. J. Simpson Billy Joel J. Jonah Jameson Gears of War Resident Evil (film series) Steven Soderbergh Batman Begins (2006) The Dark Knight (2008) Front Mission 3 Phantasy Star Online Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor .hack series .hack//Versus .hack//Beyond the World (2012) District 9 (2009) God of War III Stealth (2005) WipEout Pure <a href="https://www.mobygame
Wed, April 10, 2024
Insert Credit Gaiden #8 - Even More GDC 2024, with Liz Ryerson, Ty Underwood, Brandon Sheffield, and Frank Cifaldi
Liz Ryerson and Ty Underwood return to convey the physicalities and vibes of the GDC 2024 Expo Hall, while Brandon and Frank do their best to push preservation. Plus, Liz gives a definitive answer as to whether you should go to GDC. Hosted by Liz Ryerson, Ty Underwood, Brandon Sheffield and Frank Cifaldi. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Segments**:** Liz and Ty scour the Expo Hall (00:33) Frank and Brandon cover history at the (36:14) Liz plays The Deja Vu Game with Evan Balster (51:31) Liz helps Robert Yang with a dilemma (01:00:24) Answers to “Is it worth going to GDC?” and/or “Should I go to GDC?” by Liz Ryerson (01:06:26) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums Insert Credit Gaiden is brought to you by patrons like you . Thank you. Subscribe: RSS , Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and more!
Mon, April 08, 2024
Ep. 333 - Threetacular
Three of your favorite Insert Credit panelists cover three questions from Alex Jaffe, three listener questions, and three Lightning Rounds. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What are your favorite video game conspiracy theories? (07:06) Which hybrid characters in video games best take advantage of both halves of their nature? (14:33) Adaptation Game: The Three Musketeers (19:19) BluntForceMama asks: Do you have to play a game to like it? (26:10) Spencer Gifts asks: Where are we in video game history parallel to other media? (28:20) Crumar Bones asks: What are some games that look better through composite output rather than component or S-Video? (33:55) DITHERED LIGHTNING ROUNDS: Violence Island Exhibition, GameFAQ&As: Kingdom Hearts III, and Name Design: Trilogy Endings (39:24) Recommendations and Outro (54:24) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: SaGa: Emerald Beyond Akitoshi Kawazu Final Fantasy II the photo of Akitoshi Kawazu tim mentions Jolly Rancher Gunpei Yokoi Yuji Naka Gizmondo Balan Wonderworld Uwe Boll Kingdoms of Amalur series Curt Schilling Eastbound & Down NEC PC-FX Sonic Mania Penny’s Big Breakaway Mother 3 <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/5993
Mon, April 01, 2024
Ep 332 - Your Free Trial Has Ended
Returning from GDC, the Insert Credit panel churns out video game guides, Harmony of Excellence, and a new record for mentions of pubic hair. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: How was GDC, Frank and Brandon? (08:34) How do you write 50 video game guides in a week? (19:05) Insert Credit Quick Break: 8-Bit Theater 20th Anniversary Complete Script Book Do Not Sue Edition (29:38) BluntForceMama asks: What would Final Fantasy 7 be called if it was a standalone game? (31:30) Brandon, tell us about someone in video games. (35:30) Frank, tell us about someone in video games. (42:51) Tim, tell us about someone in video games. (46:29) LIGHTNING ROUND: Popcornocalypse (58:15) Recommendations and Outro (01:06:45) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Bad Street Brawler r/AmItheAsshole Goblin Gremlin Hobgoblin Gollum Hobgoblin (comics) Green Goblin Dungeons & Dragons Bugbear Kobold Beholder Owlbear Griffin Manticore Chimera Pawn Inclinations Dragon’s Dogma II Prawn Wii Dizzy series Ep. 331 - Bye Forever GDC 2024, with Brandon Sheffield <a href="h
Mon, March 25, 2024
Ep. 331 - Bye Forever GDC 2024, with Brandon Sheffield
Insert Credit reports direct from GDC 2024. Brandon Sheffield asks industry professionals maybe the most important question in the games right now: how do you reclaim your humanity during all this chaos? Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, with Megan Farokhmanesh, Osama Dorias, Amani Shantz, Paweł Rohleder, JJ Signal, Antonio Uribe, Ash Parrish, Mathew Kumar, and Baiyon. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Chapters: Monday - Refrigerators (00:14) Tuesday - Talking to Strangers with Megan Farokhmanesh (03:16) Wednesday - Hugs with Osama Dorias (10:39) Wednesday - Self-Acknowledgment with Amani Shantz (15:18) Wednesday - Immediate Flow with Paweł Rohleder (20:28) Wednesday - PC-88 Games and Dish Washing with JJ Signal and Antonio Uribe (22:29) Thursday - Gummies and Marvel Snap with Ash Parrish and Mathew Kumar (30:08) Thursday - Baiyon playing SimTunes (40:25) Thursday - Good Sleep with Baiyon (42:06) Friday - bye forever (47:57) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: GDC 2024 Frank Cifaldi Feminist Frequency Foreign Cinema Halo 3 Demonschool Now Wishlistable on Steam Yerba Buena Gardens Megan Farokhmanesh Eat Pray Love Joshua Tree National Park Osama Dorias Brass Lion Entertainment Gameloft DTI Software Ubisoft For Honor <a href
Mon, March 18, 2024
Ep. 330 - Squadala
Frank, Tim and Brandon share their thoughts on Akira Toriyama, the genres that defined consoles, and CD-i memories. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Let’s discuss Akira Toriyama’s impact on art, culture, video games, and us personally (08:03) What’s the most common misconception about video games in 2024? (23:05) Based on a dream I had, should I learn magic, or Magic: the Gathering? (31:04) LeFish: Are there any videogames based on works in other media that have been led by their original creators? (37:10) Which game consoles do you most closely associate with particular video game genres? (43:51) Recommendations and Outro (01:02:04) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Radiatori Lucky Charms Super Smash Brothers series Link Legend of Zelda series Tagliatelle Rotini Super Mario Bros. Shaped SpaghettiOs with Meatballs Super Mario series Cheerios Oops! All Berries Xi’an Famous Foods Chili Oil & Crisps Jar Akira Toriyama Satoru Iwata Osamu Tezuka Dragon Ball Cool S Dragon Ball Z Toonami Buzz Rickson’s USAF L-2B Flying Jacket H-Type <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/group/436
Mon, March 11, 2024
Ep. 329 - The Nephew Line
The finest minds in video games and beyond contemplate unique input interfaces, classic adventure games, and a return to Violence Island. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: With the recent closing of Rooster Teeth, how has machinima developed over the last 20 years? (03:19) Design a themed video game controller that ties into a particular brand but would also be fun to use. (10:12) What are the most credible depictions of gamers in media? (16:48) How do you convince a studio executive they have a bad idea before it’s too late? (23:24) Insert Credit Quick Break: Labyrinth of Cinema (29:55) Irish Carl asks: Rank the corpus of adventure games from Sierra On-Line, Infocom, LucasArts, and Cyan (30:51) What are your favorite broad personality archetypes in video game supporting characters? (38:11) Which video game would benefit most from the “World of Warcraft Classic” treatment? (43:14) How’s the future looking right now for emulation? (46:51) LIGHTNING ROUND: Violence Island (55:01) Recommendations and Outro (01:03:24) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Bob’s Burgers Teddy Jimmy Pesto Jay Johnston, ‘Bob’s Burgers’ Actor, Is Arrested on Jan. 6 Charges Mr. Show with Bob and David SpongeBob SquarePants Mr. Peanutbutter Rooster Teeth Shut Down by Warner Bros. Discovery Rooster Teeth Halo series Machinima Red vs. Blue Minecraft Great Famine (Ireland) Dropkick
Mon, March 04, 2024
Ep. 328 - Final Fantasy XVI-2cular
When the Insert Credit Panel chose Final Fantasy XVI as their Game of the Year 2023, the game industry couldn’t help but rise up and wholeheartedly, sincerely agree. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Defend your choice of Final Fantasy XVI as Game of the Year 2023 (04:55) Testimonials From More Game Industry Thought Leaders Affirming Final Fantasy XVI is Game of the Year 2023 (18:56) Rainbow Battle Kid asks: What are the best cases of a creator continuing a game series under a new title? (38:45) What does a Triple B video game look like? (47:34) Has any game ever had a good mobile tie-in? (51:25) LIGHTNING ROUND: Soda Jerk - Musical Genres (56:50) Recommendations and Outro (01:05:24) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Final Fantasy Judge Magister Cup Noodles Gladiolus Amicitia Rick and Morty Red Mage Dragon’s Dogma Final Fantasy XVI Insert Credit Show 325 - Game of the Year 2023, with Kris Graft Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Final Fantasy XV Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Final Fantasy X Final Fantasy XII Square Enix launches its first NFT project Square Enix says it used AI art in upcoming Foamstars game Paranormasight: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo <a href="https://finalfantasy.fandom.com
Mon, February 26, 2024
Ep. 327 - The Third Knuckles
Your Insert Credit panel returns to cover the greatest leap in console graphics ever, the Sonic Cinematic Universe, and Tiara Cyberooski. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: How was D.I.C.E.? (04:39) When is taking notes while playing games fun, and when is it a chore? (13:07) What would it take for the next Xbox to be “the largest technical leap you’ve ever seen in a hardware generation”? (18:25) What is the future of the Sonic Cinematic Universe? (24:02) Insert Credit Quick Break: GLYDR (29:37) Kory asks: If you had to design a fighting game with a roster consisting solely of variants of the same character, who would it be? (31:16) Have you ever played a video game and gotten to a part where you thought, “Oh, this would have been an exciting surprise if I were a different sort of person”? (39:08) What’s the worst love story ever told in video games? (49:10) What makes the concept of an ancient evil returning in the present day such a staple of video games, and adventure fiction overall? (55:17) A Message from Alex Jaffe (01:01:00) Recommendations and Outro (01:03:02) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Slimer The Real Ghostbusters Garbage Pail Kids Altered Beast Solid Snake D.I.C.E. Summit Chef Kenny Chef Kenny’s Vegan Dim Sum Nintendo Entertainment System Retro City Games SETA Corporation Kemco/Seika Nosferatu Bio Force Ape Half Bird Chicken & Beer Kung Lao <a href="htt
Mon, February 19, 2024
Ep. 326 - Even More Games of the Year 2023
Action Button’s Tim Rogers and Necrosoft’s Brandon Sheffield share thoughts about every game they played that was released in 2023. Hosted by Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Games of 2023 Discussed: Little Goody Two Shoes (04:48) Lies of P (08:55) Thirsty Suitors (13:28) (Note: this segment contains light spoilers) Blasphemous 2 (18:05) The Last Faith (20:07) Metroid Prime: Remastered (24:47) Star Ocean: The Second Story R (27:05) Fire Emblem: Engage (34:20) Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot Camp (39:15) Persona 5: Tactica (42:06) Star Wars: Jedi - Survivor (47:25) Hogwarts Legacy (50:09) System Shock (54:24) Insert Credit Quick Break: GLYDR now on Kickstarter (57:21) One more thing about Hogwarts Legacy (59:00) Dead Space (01:01:03) Dave the Diver (01:03:12) Immortals of Aveum (01:04:34) Remnant II (01:05:57) Pizza Tower (01:10:31) Wanted: Dead (01:12:39) Fading Afternoon (01:23:19) Sea of Stars (01:24:13) Assassin’s Creed
Mon, February 12, 2024
Ep. 325 - Game of the Year 2023, with Kris Graft
The best video game of the year 2023 is decided by VGHF’s Frank Cifaldi, Action Button’s Tim Rogers, Necrosoft’s Brandon Sheffield, and Alienware’s Kris Graft. Also, the design of the Switch 2 is revealed. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Kris Graft. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. The Nomination Process: Frank Cifaldi’s First Nomination (02:57) Frank Cifaldi’s Second Nomination (11:34) Frank Cifaldi’s Third Nomination (15:00) Brandon Sheffield’s First Nomination (29:40) Kris Graft’s First Nomination (41:31) Tim Rogers’ First Nomination (01:00:42) Brandon Sheffield’s Second Nomination (01:08:25) Kris Graft’s Second Nomination (01:19:41) Tim Rogers’ Second Nomination (01:35:18) Insert Credit Quick Break: GLYDR (01:48:06) Brandon Sheffield’s Third Nomination (01:49:45) Kris Graft’s Third Nomination (02:00:06) Tim Rogers’ Third Nomination (02:14:02) Brandon Sheffield’s Fourth Nomination (02:20:36) Tim Rogers’ Fourth Nomination (02:26:19) Brandon Sheffield’s Fifth Nomination (02:23:15) Tim Rogers’ Fifth Nomination (02:40:02) Brandon Sheffield’s Sixth Nomination (02:50:18) Brandon Sheffield’s Seventh Nomination (02:53:08) Tim Rogers’ Sixth Nomination (02:55:41) Tim Rogers’ Seventh Nomination (03:03:25) View the finalized ranked list in the Insert Credit Forums or at insertcredit.com A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Marvel Spider-Man 2 Marvel Spider-Man Batman: Arkham series Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League Marvel Spider-Man: Miles Morales Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023) Roger Ebert Mortal Kombat (1995) God of War: Ragnarök - Valhalla Dark Souls <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/group
Mon, February 05, 2024
Ep. 324 - Bocket Tinesters
Tim Rogers hosts the Insert Credit panel this week, exploring Hideo Kojima’s recent announcements, the first working game developer to reach 80 years old, and Korean butt animation. Hosted by Tim Rogers, with Frank Cifaldi, Alex Jaffe, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Choose a video game coming out in 2024 and ask Frank to play it (11:16) When do you think you’ll stop playing video games, Brandon Sheffield? (26:32) Did you all see the Hideo Kojima stuff at PlayStation State of Play? (39:44) Why aren’t there more Hideo Kojimas? (55:40) Alex Jaffe, flip a coin (01:06:53) Insert Credit Time Capsule (01:08:01) A Brief Medical Update (01:21:48) Recommendations and Outro (01:29:24) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: The Matrix (1999) Photochromic lens Boktai: The Sun is in Your Hand Pokémon Ambidexterity Bob Dylan Sonic the Hedgehog (2020) video games coming out in 2024 - Google Search Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League Batman: Arkham series Dragon’s Dogma 2 Dogma (1999) Alone in the Dark series Persona series Persona 3: Reload Ryū ga Gotoku / Like a Dragon / Yakuza series The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
Mon, January 29, 2024
Ep. 323 - Ntscworld
Your benevolent Insert Credit panel covers Palworld, video game mysteries, and the birth of a new speedrunning category, the 50% run. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Frank asks: What is the proper nomenclature for the Snatcherlike video game? (13:09) Is Palworld satire? (20:28) Invent a new speedrunning category (28:40) Stephanie asks: What’s a video game unsolved mystery or urban legend want solved or confirmed? (39:35) Which individual video game enemy has killed the greatest number of players globally? (46:47) If you could swap any two video game sound effects between games, which ones would they be? (52:03) Who is the Batman of video games? (56:09) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As: Sim City 2000 (01:04:37) Recommendations and Outro (01:17:18) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Weetabix Uncle O’Grimacey FITCRUNCH Mint Chocolate Chip Keebler Company Trix Jason Todd Honeycomb David Cronenberg The Noid Santa Claus Tony & Friends: in Kellogg’s Land Snatcher Legend of Zelda series Devil May Cry Resident Evil Shenmue Super Mario Bros. 3 The Secret of Monkey Island Policenauts <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/39799/portopia-renzoku-satsujin-
Mon, January 22, 2024
Ep. 322 - Vehicular Treason Murder
The classic Insert Credit panel covers a game preservation dilemma, the 2007 Honda Shepherd, and a new mascot for Violence Island. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Kim Justice asks: In games where water is lethal, at what part of the body should that water kill you? (08:19) Is there a better way to implement communication in video games than dialogue trees? (14:06) What are the top five most fun crimes to commit in video games? (20:36) What would Bayonetta 9 be like? (26:49) Brandon asks: When does bootlegging count as video game preservation? (32:41) Gaagaagiins asks: What are some of the best (or most interesting) games you can get a physical copy of on eBay (or equivalent) for about 10 bucks USD (excluding shipping) without much trouble? (38:56) What is usually the worst kind of vehicle to control in a video game? (42:54) LIGHTNING ROUND: Violence Island (49:05) Recommendations and Outro (01:09:46) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Ninja Gaiden series Cruis’n USA Sisyphus Super Mario series Sonic the Hedgehog Bubsy series Death Stranding Castlevania series Mega Man series Elevator Action Square Enix AI Tech Preview: The Portopia Serial Murder Case Snatcher Princess Tomato in the Salad Kingdom Mass Effect series Ryū ga Gotoku / Like a Dragon / Yakuza series <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game
Mon, January 15, 2024
Ep. 321 - Mid-Atlantic Island, with Kim Justice
European video game documentarian Kim Justice joins the panel to discuss a broad variety of accents, whether or not Sonic R is a British game, and a revisitation of our Best British Games list. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Kim Justice. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Has a video game ever captured the qualities of sumo? (10:46) What are the most essential things we wouldn’t have in games today without the early European games scene? (17:46) Apart from brand recognition, what are the advantages and disadvantages of working on a licensed game? (25:55) What is the worst video game the most people have played? (32:52) Carl/Charles: What would an English version of The Tairyou Jigoku’s multiple dialect options be like? (40:23) LIGHTNING ROUND: Best British Games revisitation (50:27) Recommendations and Outro (01:01:25) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: CeX Michigan: Report from Hell Sonic the Hedgehog 3 The Secret of Monkey Island The Legend of Zelda Metroid Cocoon Parasite Eve The 3rd Birthday Grange Hill The Hulk Sumo Super Mario 64 Ys series Virtua Fighter Buriki One: World Grapple Tournament ’99 in Tokyo Death Stranding Yie Ar Kung-Fu <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/7461/shadow
Mon, January 08, 2024
Ep. 320 - Crafting a Criminal
Your Insert Credit panel returns to cover another death of physical media, Steamboat Willie, and The Minecraft Reality TV Show Criminal Court Case Chronicles. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Are we approaching an era without physical game releases? (04:51) Does gameplay have to be the starting principle of a good video game? (20:00) Public Domain Adaptation Game: Design a game based on Steamboat Willie (26:12) Catherine: What games are best structured for playing a little bit each day? (35:21) Following the acclaim of Pokemon Concierge, what should be the next video game show set in the world of a game but not about the game itself? (42:55) LIGHTNING ROUND: The Time Is Right (49:20) Recommendations and Outro (01:00:36) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: D.I.C.E. Awards Ed Boon 1999 2nd Annual Interactive Achievement Awards Martin Short Coolio The Last of Us series Silent Hill 3 Best Buy will no longer carry physical movies in 2024 Writers Guild of America Valkyria Chronicles series Hard Target (1993) The Departed (2006) Dragon Quest series Hyper Gunsport Redbox Grateful Dead Assassin’s Creed II Digital Eclipse Boku no Natsuyasumi <a hre
Mon, January 01, 2024
Ep. 319 - Insert Credit Annual #5
As has become tradition, Insert Credit ranks the best games of all time. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Chapters: The Premise This Year: Metacritic Scores Below 80 (12:29) Round 1 - Brandon (18:05) Round 1 - Frank (21:25) Round 1 - Tim (23:51) Round 2 - Brandon (26:39) Round 2 - Frank (31:31) Round 2 - Tim (35:04) Round 3 - Brandon (41:32) Round 3 - Frank (47:24) Round 3 - Tim (53:48) Round 4 - Brandon (01:02:46) Round 4 - Frank (01:06:52) Round 4 - Tim (01:12:58) Insert Credit Quick Break: Butter Dorks (01:18:43) A Little More About God Hand (01:20:03) Round 5 - Brandon (01:22:41) Round 5 - Frank (01:29:05) Round 5 - Tim (01:37:54) Round 6 - Brandon (01:50:59) Round 6 - Frank (01:55:54) Round 6 - Tim (02:04:32) Final Round and Honorable Mentions - Brandon (02:13:15) Final Round and Honorable Mentions - Frank (02:25:42) Final Round and Honorable Mentions - Tim (02:33:54) Outro (02:52:03) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Batman (1989) Batman Returns (1992) Batman ’89 Sam Hamm Dennis O’Neil The Flash (2023) Michael Keaton Anton Furst Max Fleischer Dick Sprang The Dark Knight (2008) Chicago The Bund China Strike Force (2000) Mark Dacascos Coolio Oriental Pearl Tower Strange Days (1995) </li
Wed, December 27, 2023
Insert Credit Gaiden #7 - Saizeriya Feast: Opening Presents with John Linneman
Brandon Sheffield celebrates the end of his Japan trip by comparing video game purchases with Digital Foundry’s John Linneman. By Brandon Sheffield and John Linneman, with an intro by Alex Jaffe. Featuring the track “It’s Different Now” by Ice Choir. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Segments**:** Preface (00:26) Sitting in Saizeriya (02:55) John: Akira Psycho Ball (04:10) Brandon: Destruction Derby (06:39) John: Pu•Li•Ru•La (08:30) Brandon: Panzer Bandit (11:58) John: Gun Survivor 3: Dino Crisis (14:08) Brandon: Namco Anthology 1 & 2 (17:43) John: Lethal Enforcers (19:51) Brandon: Vib-Ribbon and Alnam no Tsubasa (21:45) John: Hresvelgr (23:42) Brandon: After Burner III (24:49) John: Heavy Metal Thunder (25:38) Brandon: Zeiram Zone (27:17) John: Tempo (28:36) Brandon: Community Pom (32:54) John: Ys VI: The Ark of Napishtim (34:50) Brandon: Demolition Man (37:55) John: Crack Down (39:39) Brandon: Sōkyūgurentai (41:51) John: Soldier Blade (43:20) Brandon: Double Dragon II (46:15) John: Thunder Force V: Perfect System (48:23) Brandon: Kurohyō 2: Ryū ga Gotoku (49:54) John: Ø Story and Kunoichi (51:16) Brandon: Biomotor Unitron 2 (53:48) John: Silent Line: Armored Core III (54:48) Brandon: Royal Stone (55:24) Rattling Off A Few More (56:32) Ice Choir - It’s Different Now (01:04:00) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Dragon Quest Heroes: Rocket Slime John Linneman Saizeriya Ep. 109 - Part One – Insert Credit Abroad Tokyo Insect Zoo Panzer Bandit Gunners Heaven Mad Stalker: Full Metal Force Space Channel 5 MIL-CD Digital Foundry Akira Psycho Ball <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/company/2306/kaze
Mon, December 25, 2023
Ep. 318 - Insert Credit Santacular, with Lucy James
Happy holidays! Gamespot’s Lucy James drops down the Insert Credit chimney to cover Welsh elves, the first official weed strain for a video game, and Dreiblade. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Lucy James. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: As the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, which three video game characters would be best at teaching Ebenezer Scrooge to change his miserly ways? (09:23) Do sliding ice physics ever positively contribute to a video game? (15:19) What do you think is the best selling non-video game item at GameStop as a gift this season? (21:35) Design the greatest Santa Claus video game of all time (30:48) How could dreidel be improved? (35:49) Which video game company probably holds the best Christmas party? (42:43) Based on video games, what do we know about elves? (49:05) What is the Rankin Bass of video games? (54:53) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design - Christmas Songs (01:01:19) Recommendations and Outro (01:12:28) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Mariah Carey - All I Want for Christmas Is You Eggnog The Genealogy of Jesus the Messiah Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree Monstera deliciosa The Twelve Days of Christmas The Da Vinci Code A Christmas Carol Ebenezer Scrooge Tetsuya Nomura Organization XIII The World Ends with You Marluxia Mickey Mouse Kazuma Kiryu Goro Majima Dav
Wed, December 20, 2023
Insert Credit Gaiden #6 - Electric Sesame: An Interview with Jeremy Blaustein
Brandon Sheffield hits the Tokyo Game Show 2023 floor and interviews Jeremy Blaustein, CEO of Dragonbaby and translator of legendary games like Metal Gear Solid, Suikoden, and Silent Hill 2. Segments**:** How did this all start for you? (01:01) What did you do at Jaleco? (02:02) What games did you work on? (03:59) Talk a little bit about character constraints in early video game localization (05:23) How did you manage outside references in Suikoden? (09:29) Talk a little bit about Symphony of the Night (11:49) How does the back-and-forth in recording go? (15:24) Were you working in isolation in the early days? (18:27) Were you working with Kojima’s team on Snatcher? (19:54) What’s your experience with Turbografx CD games? (21:07) Anything interesting about the Shadow Hearts series? (22:42) Talk a little bit more about Metal Gear Solid (25:25) What were the unique challenges of the early era of game translation? (27:50) How do you feel about accidentally creating iconic lines? (31:52) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Jeremy Blaustein Dragonbaby Konami Jaleco Snatcher Rocket Knight series Animaniacs Tiny Toon Adventures: Buster’s Hidden Treasure Biker Mice from Mars Castlevania Contra Hard Corps Vandal Hearts Suikoden Castlevania: Symphony of the Night Silent Hill 2 Troy Baker Animaniacs The Adventures of Batman & Robin <
Mon, December 18, 2023
Ep. 317 - Gamer Taxes, with merritt k
Author and game developer merritt k joins the panel to cover The Game Commercials, Charles Martinet’s dark side, and the return of Violence Island. Hosted by Alex Jaffe , with Tim Rogers , Brandon Sheffield , and merritt k . Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman . [audio=https://archive.org/download/insertcredit/ic317.mp3] Questions this week: Brandon Sheffield: What are some recent or memorable emergent situations you’ve experienced in games? (08:21) Do we want to say anything about The Game Awards? (15:44) What does it mean that Epic won its court case against Google? (23:32) How would you design Mutant League Golf? (31:05) Dicegame Uchiha: What are the most uh oh and most YEAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH moments in licensed video game soundtrack history? (35:16) What is your personal experience with LAN parties? (48:17) LIGHTNING ROUND: Violence Island (54:48) Recommendations and Outro (01:14:57) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Destiny Borderlands 3 Fortnite: Battle Royale Bill Trinen Charles Martinet Super Mario series Kinda Funny Weird West Cyberpunk 2077 Grand Theft Auto series Baldur’s Gate III The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/53545/the-elder-scrolls-v-s
Wed, December 13, 2023
Insert Credit Gaiden #5 - Highway Game: A Review of American Truck Simulator by Topher Florence
Topher Florence meditates on American Truck Simulator, confronting the friction between realistic advertisments and product placement, a Greatest Hits version of America, and the emotional palette of driving around in someone’s life’s work. By Topher Florence, with intro by Alex Jaffe. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: American Truck Simulator Euro Truck Simulator Six Flags Mad Grand Theft Auto series OutRun The Crew series Fuel Grand Canyon Space Needle Microsoft Flight Simulator Harvest Moon series Agatha Christie’s Poirot Waffle House Dwarf Fortress Insert Credit Gaiden is brought to you by patrons like you . Thank you. Subscribe: RSS , Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and more!
Mon, December 11, 2023
Ep. 316 - Insert Credit Game Awards Special
Recorded before The Game Awards, and released the week after! The Insert Credit Panel decides the video game winners of categories unwittingly submitted by listeners. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. And The Categories Are: Gaagaagiins: Best Standardized Box Art Platform Frames (02:15) Propelleher: Best Scoff (05:35) rice9 : Best eSport of the 1980s (07:16) Breadytodie: Best Overtly Political Japanese Game (08:48) Cole: Best Campfire Scene (10:59) IntergalacticWalrus: Best Playable Non-Anthropomorphic Animal (13:14) Spencer: Best Game By an American Branch of a Japanese Company (16:02) Larky: Most Incidentally Educational Game (18:59) rearnakedwindow: Best Game Exclusive to a Legitimately Bad Console (22:13) Alex Jaffe: Best Video Game to Name Your Band After (24:53) ANONYMOUS GOD HAND LOVER: Game Most Like GOD HAND (27:15) Billy: Best Underwater Tunnel in a Racing Game (28:34) Sfwublin: Best Mine Carts (31:01) Justin Hamrick: Most Dangerous Video Game (33:47) Pro Skater 4: Most Evil Video Game (36:41) Erica: Most Video Game-Ass Video Game (39:05) Recommendations and Outro (42:08) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: The Game Awards Intellivision PC Engine Master System PlayStation PlayStation 2 PlayStation 3 PlayStation Portable PlayStation 5 PlayStation 4 Xbox Nintendo Entertainment System Quake II Terry Bogard X-Men Street Fighter series Punch-Out ser
Wed, December 06, 2023
Insert Credit Gaiden #4 - Human Face On An Obi: An Interview with Masaya Matsuura
Brandon Sheffield interviews musician and game designer Masaya Matsuura of the band Psy・S , discussing the early days of computer graphics and sound, making music for anime, and why Vib Ribbon was so hard to get screenshots of. Intro by Alex Jaffe, edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Segments: Preface (00:29) How did you get into music? (03:20) How did you start making music yourself? (05:34) How did you move from writing jingles to full music (and which synths do you use)? (09:52) What was the experience of “getting big” like? (11:58) What is it like playing in front of large crowds? (14:16) How did you end up doing music for anime? (18:07) How did you move from there to video games? (21:42) What made you want to start a game company? (23:48) How did the Psy-S Remix CD-ROM game come to be? (30:49) What was the inspiration for Vib Ribbon’s mechanic allowing you to play your own music? (34:16) When did you decide to focus more on games than music? (38:57) What is your sound? (41:58) What do you learn from doing your private DJ sessions? (46:22) Preface for live performance (53:36) Masaya Matsuura - Funny Luv (Live at GameCity 2009) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: PaRappa the Rapper Vib-Ribbon Rhyme Rider Kerorican Mojib Ribbon Psy・S NHK Hall City Hunter Metamor Jupiter Playtechs Tower of the Sun Osaka Castle J-card Moog IIIc Fairlight CMI Sussudio 3DO Interactive Multiplayer
Mon, December 04, 2023
Ep. 315 - Hut Shack Warehouse Emporium
Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield answer Alex Jaffe’s questions about Nintendo’s last video game ever, committing fraud, and Turds of the Castle. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What’s still easier for you to do in real life than in a video game? (11:10) How do you scam the speculative market with a storage container of five hundred copies of an underwhelming NES game? (16:49) What will be the title of Nintendo’s last game? (24:25) SpencerGifs asks: Has the video game controller been finalized? (34:58) What is the video game equivalent of film’s “award bait” traits? (43:27) Jean-Michel Basquiat said that art is how we decorate space, and music is how we decorate time. What do we decorate with video games? (52:09) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As - Doom (53:47) Recommendations and Outro (58:55) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Cracker Barrel Bacchanal Buffet Metal slime Dragon Quest series Socrates Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) Steven Spielberg Unicorn Thomas the Tank Engine IKEA Densha de Go! series R.E.M. - Stand R.E.M. - It’s The End Of The World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine) Top Gear Gran Turismo series Red Dead Redemption Red Dead Revolver Red Dead Redemption II <a href="https://www.mobyga
Wed, November 29, 2023
Insert Credit Gaiden #3 - Computer Music: an Interview with chibi-tech
Brandon Sheffield intereviews musical artist chibi-tech on her career in chiptune, working in Japan, and breaking through the noise in front of an Akihabara busker. Featuring Brandon Sheffield and chibi-tech. Intro by Alex Jaffe. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Segments: Preface (00:24) What are your musical origins? (02:37) When did your music break out? (07:36) How did you start making music professionally? (11:08) What advice would you give someone wanting to work in Japan or with Japanese companies? (15:37) chibi-tech - Pheromone Overdosage (20:27) chibi-tech - Amerio no Jikan (26:09) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Omotesandō chibi-tech M2 Sonic the Hedgehog Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Kokuga Game Gear Micro Fantasy Zone OutRun Pheromone OVERDOSAGE Amiga 1000 Ampex Nolan Bushnell Atari Deluxe Music Construction Set Ninja Gaiden Zero no Tsukaima The World Famous Vincent Diamante Sky: Children of the Light Journey Insert Credit Gaiden is brought to you by patrons like you . Thank you. Subscribe: RSS , Apple Podcasts , <a href="https://pod
Mon, November 27, 2023
Ep. 314 - Tofurtacular Thank Tank
Every member of the Insert Credit panel gathers for a feast of questions regarding cartridge consumption, Tom Cruise title changes, and Bangai-O. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: How would video games be different if the concept of a sequel didn’t exist? (10:39) How do you keep enemy encounters from feeling repetitive? (17:53) What’s the best law to break in a video game? (24:28) What is the best jump noise in video games? (32:03) What’s the worst first impression you’ve had of a game due to outside circumstances? (37:58) What video game cartridge or disc would you like to eat the most? (43:02) What can the U.S. healthcare system learn from healthcare in video games? (49:04) What are the greatest non-corporate rivalries in video games? (55:09) Is it possible to make a competitive multiplayer game completely diagetic to its story? (01:00:55) Has a piano ever been dropped on or near someone in a video game to great effect? (01:06:14) Should fall damage be phased out? (01:11:09) How would you explain Bangai-O to your mom? (01:18:03) LIGHTNING ROUND: Potpourri (01:25:36) Recommendations and Outro (01:30:02) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Alex Jaffe Insert Credit Patreon (The Dirtbag) Insert Credit Flavored Questions that are too stupid for the Dirtbag Topher Florence Tofurky Impossible Foods Be’f Repo Man (1984) Taylor Swift Mission: Impossible Tom Cruise Nintendo Entertainment System Balloon Fight <a
Wed, November 22, 2023
Insert Credit Gaiden #2 - Sniffing Other's Beers
Brandon Sheffield continues answering your questions about Japan, and finishes ranking non-alcoholic beers encountered in convenience stores. Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, introduced by Alex Jaffe. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Segments: Alex Jaffe asks: What’s the best convenience store in Japan? (01:19) Karasu asks: What do you think of the Japanese craft beer scene? (02:10) sosadillatron asks: Do you notice a lot fewer game centers? (03:56) Tomofthefog asks: What’s the first thing you wanted to do in Japan that you can’t do anywhere else in the world, and did you do it? (05:05) Alex Jaffe asks: Has anyone given you trouble for being a foreigner? And, saddleblasters asks: when has your identity as a foreigner perhaps surprisingly meant nothing? (06:22) powderooze asks: Are there more foreigners around these days? (08:59) Review: Suntory Lemon Sour (11:46) Review: Value Plus Zero Feel (13:27) Mnemogenic asks: What’s your favorite bird to hang out with in Japan? (14:23) MDS-02 asks: Do you prefer Book Off or Hard Off? (15:30) Lotte asks: Please go to the Wood & Plywood Museum (16:23) BinaryFlux asks: What’re some cool places in Japan for someone going for the third time? (16:54) mtvcribs asks: Why is Japan so much cooler than America? (18:04) sabertoothalex asks: What are your tips for day to day living in Japan? (19:27) marxseny asks: Are Japanese cops all ブタ野郎? (22:54) Review: Takara Karakuchi Zeroball (24:17) Review: Suntory White Wine (25:50) What Did We Learn? Plus, Bonus Garlic Cheese (27:08) A Noisy Airport Addendum Regarding Going With the Flow (29:47) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Asahi Dry Zero Dango Daily Yamazaki Lawson Seven & i Holdings Suntory Non Alcohol Lemon Sour Value Plus Zero Feel Book Off Hard Off Wood and Plywood Museum Comiket <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tokyo_Big_
Mon, November 20, 2023
Ep. 313 - Nintendo Apocalypse Monster
Our most popular Insert Credit panel undergoes action experiences, chases down Chester Cheevos, and delivers judgments of gaucheness. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: At what point does a strategy game become too complicated? (08:58) Is swimming in games ever good? (15:03) How long before release is the right time to announce your video game? (20:41) Where would you take Sonic and his friends if they were in town? (26:06) Insert Credit Quick Break: Transgender Day of Remembrance (32:32) Let’s talk about that Suicide Squad game and live service games (33:52) How would you name a new console to compete with the Xbox and Playstation? (42:02) If The Purge were real, how would that affect video games? (53:43) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design - British TV Shows (submitted by LeFish) (58:41) Recommendations and Outro (01:05:27) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Akira Nishikiyama Hannibal Lecter Kazuma Kiryu Evil Zone Famicom Wars series TearRing Saga: Berwick Saga - Lazberia Chronicle Chapter 174 Fire Emblem series Will Wright Yggdra Union: We’ll Never Fight Alone R-Type Tactics series The Game of Life Candy Land Disgaea series Kikou Souhei Armodyne Wild Arms XF <a href="h
Wed, November 15, 2023
Insert Credit Gaiden #1 - Smadori
Brandon Sheffield reports from various locales around Tokyo, answering forum questions and reviewing non-alcoholic beers. Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, introduced by Alex Jaffe. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Segments: rejj asks: What’s it like being vegetarian in Japan? (00:31) Review: Kirin Zero Ichi (05:45) Review: Asahi Dry Zero (08:06) rejj asks: Where do you get your recommendations? (10:31) rearnakedwindow asks: Is anybody out playing PSPs/3DSes and such? (13:18) DaveedNoo asks: When was your first trip to Japan and what did you do? (14:31) Review: Kirin Greens Free (17:45) Review: Suntory All-Free (19:50) ninjapresident asks: How is the used game market right now? (21:27) Review: Yoinai Lemon Sour (30:37) Review: Suntory Karada Wo Amou All-Free (32:08) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: HappyCow Kirin Zero Ichi Asahi Dry Zero FM Towns Marty Kirin Greens Free Suntory ALL-FREE Shinrei Jusatsushi Tarōmaru Super Potato Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection 2064: Read Only Memories Vincent Diamante Yoinai Lemon Sour San Pellegrino Limonata Suntory Karada Wo Amou All-Free Subscribe: RSS , Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , an
Mon, November 13, 2023
Ep. 312 - Tetsuya Mizuguchi's Expensive Tetris
Your beloved Insert Credit Show panel convenes on topics such as Sony Zelda, the Buddha’s Pickle Rick era, and the return of Violence Island. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Phil Salvador asks: What is a game you love that you would not recommend? (07:02) What’s the best way to pepper sidequests through an RPG? (12:47) What’s the difference between a good artist and a good concept artist? (18:08) What will Link’s first line of dialogue be in the live action Legend of Zelda movie? (23:47) Insert Credit Quick Break: video game union newsletter Jerome asks: which real people have had the most legally distinct video game characters based on them? (32:05) Why is the Streets of Rage pickup sound better than the Pac-Man pickup noise? (38:14) What are, according to Wikipedia, some video games the Buddha might or might not enjoy? (42:29) LIGHTNING ROUND: Violence Island (49:11) Recommendations and Outro (01:11:08) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Goodfeathers Animaniacs Looney Tunes Wile E. Coyote Bugs Bunny Chuck Jones Elmer Fudd Big Chungus Pickle Rick Porky Pig Telefunken U 47 Frank Sinatra Tweety Sylvester the Cat SpongeBob SquarePants Tom Kenny Granny Yosemite Sam Deadwood <a h
Mon, November 06, 2023
Ep. 311 - Cathcula, with Phil Salvador
Phil Salvador, library director for the Video Game History Foundation, steps over to the panel for Maxis facts, Five Nights at Freddy’s lore, and pigeon kings. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Phil Salvador. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Do Maxis Sim games have an evolving line of game design you can trace from title to title? (07:29) What else could Maxis have done after The Sims 2? (15:16) What are some interesting regional differences in video games? (22:01) How and why do mass game company layoffs keep happening? (27:37) Without looking anything up, what do you think Five Nights at Freddy’s is about? (34:57) Slightly More Five Nights at Freddy’s talk (44:48) Isla asks: What is a game mechanic or system you really like that is in a game you don’t like? (45:57) What would it be like if video games had playable forewords? (56:46) LIGHTNING ROUND: Who Said It? (01:01:39) Recommendations and Outro (01:13:17) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening Ninja Gaiden Bloodborne Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island Shining Force III Tori no Hoshi: Aerial Planet Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg Chocobo The Matrix Online Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Maxis Firaxis Sixaxis Sid Meier’s SimGolf SimGolf Will Wright SimAnt <a href="https://www.mobygames.co
Mon, October 30, 2023
Ep. 310 - Specdracular 2023
Frightening Frank Cifaldi, Terrifying Tim Rogers, and Bone-chilling Brandon Sheffield rank every Resident Evil game after facing a gauntlet of qreepy questions by Affable Alex Jaffe. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: How many different subgenres exist under the umbrella of “horror game?” (04:31) What are the scariest things in non-horror games? (14:58) What is the best kind of zombie? (20:19) Insert Credit Quick Break: See You, Space Cowboy… Cybernetics Catalogue Kickstarter (32:03) Adapt Bobby Boris Pickett’s “Monster Mash” into a video game. (26:11) ThatsSoRevan asks: What are the best ways to do combat in a horror game? (33:33) What is the “My costume is I came as myself” of video games? (40:01) LIGHTNING ROUND: Ranking the Resident Evil series (45:52) Recommendations and Outro (57:52) See THE INSERT CREDIT RESIDENT EVIL SERIES RANKING in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: ThorHighHeels K. Thor Jensen Candy corn Hanafuda Sour Patch Kids Resident Evil series Lost in Blue Don’t Starve Dorf Goes Fishing Dredge Doom Corpse Party Desolate Roads The Path Sweet Home Choo-Choo Charles Yume Nikki Corpse Killer The House of
Mon, October 23, 2023
Ep. 309 - Jovial Duress
Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield answer host Alex Jaffe’s questions and uncover the most Insert Credit thing to ever happen, the latest industry megamerger, and a giant cheese wheel. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: How’d the Atari Jaguar Museum at the Portland Retro Gaming Expo go, Frank? (09:18) Tina Carter asks: Is taking advantage of a a game’s technical system in a single-player environment “cheating”? (19:33) What happens now that Microsoft bought Activision? (25:03) You’re at a family dinner, and your six year old nephew asks if you’ve got any games on your phone. What do you show him? (31:30) Tom Arrow asks: What are some other game franchises that could make interesting use of Sonic & Knuckles ‘Lock On Technology’? (35:28) Design a minigame for Insert Credit: The Video Game. (46:03) LIGHTNING ROUND: Video Game Baby Shoes (52:14) Recommendations and Outro (56:01) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Batman: Arkham series Dragon’s Lair Super Metroid Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon Street Fighter II: Special Champion Edition Atari Jaguar Portland Retro Gaming Expo Video Game History Foundation Hasbro Releases Jaguar Publishing Rights Songbird Productions BigPEmu Rayman Ultra Vortek Monkey D. Luffy Boba Fett Imagin HotRod Intra-Oral Camera <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/group/794/bubsy-seri
Mon, October 16, 2023
Ep. 308 - Along for the Ride in Tokyo, with Brandon Sheffield
Brandon reports on foot in Japan, bringing us along to retro game stores, surprise idol concerts, heist stories with chibi-tech and Playstation 2 discoveries with Colin Williamson. Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, with chibi-tech and Colin Williamson. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Chapters: the perseverance of nakano sunplaza and shiso leaves (00:08) a bonus travel tip regarding fresh passports (03:02) chatting with chibi-tech in akihabara about maids, idols, and stealing stuff (06:29) a guessing game and building sasage (18:01) games, other names for granola, tofu for men, and sleep chocolate (20:14) the state of japanese retro game stores (27:12) not speaking english with pavel, and spending as much as possible on indian food (33:01) can you hear these birds?! they’re going nuts (39:31) something extremely curious (40:52) nobody does japan like japan does (49:17) wilderness reclamation (55:51) waiting for a train in kyoto, and delaying saying no (01:00:51) The Discovery of Zeus IV, with colin williamson (01:05:42) towing a hearse (01:16:21) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Nakano Sunplaza Shiso Korinbo Gopinatha Meiji University chibi-tech Spam musubi Donpen (Don Quijote) Maid café Dear Stage Dempagumi.inc Rasputin Music chocoZAP Linda³ Panekit Taito Legends / Memories series Baby Universe <a href="https://en.akibadays.c
Mon, October 09, 2023
Ep. 307US - Tomorrowind, with Christa Lee
Console modification expert Christa Lee joins our stateside panel to answer the same gauntlet of questions 8-4 Play faced in episode 307J. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Christa Lee. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: How has Japanese corporate culture manifested itself in the history of game development? (03:29) What are Japanese arcades like right now? (08:54) Design an online multiplayer game where the mechanics are intended to incorporate international time zone differences. (14:43) Jaffe’s NieR Automata Dilemma: How is it that sometimes a video game sequel or follow-up can be technically better than the previous one in every way, but you don’t like it as much? (20:32) What’s your approach to game localization purity? (28:19) Which game studio has produced the most good games without releasing ANY bad ones? (37:31) What is the “But doctor, I am Pagliacci!” of video games? (48:02) LIGHTNING ROUND: First Person Pronouns (55:31) Recommendations and Outro (01:07:48) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Merzbow Swans Ep. 307J - Podcast Swap Situation, with 8-4 Play 8-4 Play No More Heroes series Rising Sun (1993) OutRun 2 Gunslinger Stratos Jeans Mate Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Phantasy Star Online Final Fantasy XI Online Swatch Internet Time Satellaview 1 vs. 100 HQ Trivia Scott Rogowsky Death Stranding
Mon, October 02, 2023
Ep. 306.1 - Unity Tournament, with Shannon Liao
Our editor goofed up! Journalist Shannon Liao joined the panel for episode 306 , which covered Unity’s then-unaddressed increase in fees for developers. The question yielded great discussion, but was missed in editing, so it is being presented here now. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Shannon Liao. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Question this clip: Is Unity over? Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Unity has changed its pricing model, and game developers are pissed off Unity announces its revamped pricing model Unreal Engine Myspace LiveJournal Roblox Minecraft ReCore Unreal Tournament series Fortnite: Battle Royale Subscribe: RSS , Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and more!
Mon, October 02, 2023
Ep. 307J - Podcast Swap Situation, with 8-4 Play
8-4 Play (Tina Carter, Mark MacDonald and John Riccardi) serve as your panel with Brandon Sheffield as host, covering a barrage of questions about localization, the global nature of games, and Sans. Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, with Tina Carter, Mark MacDonald and John Riccardi. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: How has Japanese corporate culture manifested itself in the history of game development? (03:08) What are Japanese arcades like right now? (08:28) Design an online multiplayer game where the mechanics are intended to incorporate international time zone differences. (14:04) Jaffe’s NieR Automata Dilemma: How is it that sometimes a video game sequel or follow-up can be technically better than the previous one in every way, but you don’t like it as much? (19:08) What’s your approach to game localization purity? (25:57) Which game studio has produced the most good games without releasing ANY bad ones? (32:03) What is the “But doctor, I am Pagliacci!” of video games? (37:12) LIGHTNING ROUND: First Person Pronouns (39:44) Bonus Question: Defend your choice of the “I” pronoun you used for Sans in Undertale. (44:03) Recommendations and Outro (45:46) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: 8-4 Play Capcom Five UFO Catcher Dave & Buster’s Round One Gunslinger Stratos Groove Coaster Kirby Mercari Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Ms. Pac-Man Pong NARC Space Invaders Phantasy Star Online Swatch Internet Time <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/gam
Mon, September 25, 2023
Ep. 306 - David Crowncried, with Shannon Liao
Journalist Shannon Liao joins the panel to cover game journalism, the Twitch meta, and hot sauce recommendations. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Shannon Liao. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What is, and what is not, video game news? (06:40) When was the last time a screenshot of a video game was enough to drive interest? (14:18) The concept of video game unions is still pretty new. How do you see it paying off? (19:57) What is the Twitch Meta in 2023, and where is it headed? (25:40) In the song “Player of Games,” Grimes claims to be “in love with the greatest gamer.” Assuming that you did not know anything else about Grimes, who would you think this song was about? (30:57) Insert Credit Quick Break - Hypnospace Outlaw (36:49) LeFish asks: What can the average person do to preserve videogames outside of financial contributions? (38:36) Who is the Christopher Nolan of video games? (44:34) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design - City Pop Hits (54:58) Recommendations and Outro (01:04:23) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Cholula Hot Sauce Fly By Jing El Yucateco Hot Sauces Tapatío Hot Sauce Valentina Hot Sauce Unity announces its revamped pricing model Splatoon 3’s single-player expansion launches in 2024 Hideo Kojima Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles licensees XFF Chili Oil & Crisps Metal Gear Solid Metroid Dread Neopets Super Mario Bros. Wonder Elden Ring <a href="https://
Mon, September 18, 2023
Ep. 305 - Trouble Bobble, with Mathew Kumar and MoxBagel
Insert Credit Scottish Correspondent Mathew Kumar joins the panel to answer MoxBagel’s questions on Dragon Quest’s art style, mutants without souls, and Zom Brady. Hosted by MoxBagel, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Mathew Kumar. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: When has depriving you of your equipment or weapons felt best in a video game? (05:19) What video game house would you want to live in? (08:40) What other Bobble genres should Taito explore? (12:16) How big of an influence on Dragon Quest is Toriyama’s art? (16:02) What would be the best type of game to release in weekly small installments over 5-6 months like a TV show? (21:33) What futuristic sports game would make the best transition to real life, assuming an unlimited budget? (28:29) Has any game captured the elegant action of Yuen Woo Ping’s fight choreography? (34:34) What game is most improved by promoting and powering up the lowliest enemy to be the final boss? (40:18) LIGHTNING ROUND: Scottish Games Shootout (43:22) Recommendations and Outro (53:10) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door Final Fantasy VII Densha de Go! Final Karateka The Making of Karateka Wolfenstein: The New Order Nintendo Brain Game series Final Fantasy VI Fortnite: Battle Royale The Last Express Train Uncharted 2: Among Thieves Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire Unreal Tournament Ani
Mon, September 11, 2023
Ep. 304 - Genre-Paul Sartre, with Ash Parrish
Journalist and Insert Credit favorite Ash Parrish returns to the panel as it covers Starfield’s launch, Soulslike sports games, and the perfect handheld console. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Brandon Sheffield, and Ash Parrish. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Max Krieger asks: Pair a video game and a meal. Explain why. (07:18) What could Bethesda have done to generate a more positive reaction to Starfield while shipping the exact same game? (15:21) How do you make a nonviolent Soulslike? (22:23) If you use the word genre in the same way media other than video games do, which genre of video game is best? (27:11) What would you put in the next pack of stuff players can buy with in-game currency in Grand Theft Auto Online? (32:07) Insert Credit Quick Break: This Way Madness Lies (36:57) Catherine asks: What makes the perfect handheld? (38:18) What’s the drama happening in the Let’s Play community? (44:37) If you could go back and witness the entire development cycle of one game, what would it be? (50:24) LIGHTNING ROUND: Arcade Of Our Own (55:48) Recommendations and Outro (01:05:24) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Rosamunde Sausage Grill Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater The Great British Bake Off Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Baldur’s Gate III Baldur’s Gate II: Shadows of Amn Dragon Age series Divinity series Fallout 3 Mario’s Picross Charles Martinet explains Mario Ambassadorship Starfield Mass Effect series *<a href="https://www.pastema
Mon, September 04, 2023
Ep. 303 - Updates on Development for the 3DO, with Max Krieger
Game developer and streamer Max Krieger joins the panel to discuss booing Elon Musk, the worst year for video games in the 21st century, and Eurobeat. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Max Krieger. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Which living person would be booed the loudest if they appeared at a video game tournament? (05:43) How do you know if a puzzle game is too hard? (11:13) What kind of immersive arcade experience has no one ever really tried before, or not tried hard enough? (16:43) What was the worst year for video games from 2000 to 2020? (23:42) You have a GDC panel but need to make sure that zero people attend. What do you title it?(30:22) Spencer Gifts asks: Which Japanese game is the most American, and which American game is the most Japanese? (36:12) When in visual design is ugliness a feature? (43:50) What is the Planet of the Bass of video games? (49:29) LIGHTNING ROUND: Box Office Bomb Reviews (54:22) Recommendations and Outro (01:04:08) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Mary Schneider - Yodelling The Classics In Utero Bad Nevermind Steve Albini No Strings Attached Aqua Barbie (2023) Elon Musk trolled by Valorant fans Valorant Henry Kissinger Call of Duty: Black Ops - Cold War EA Voted Worst Company in America, Again David Cage Todd Howard <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/87896/step
Mon, August 28, 2023
Ep. 302 - Gaba'd by the Goolies
The panel you just can’t get enough of covers immediate pick-up-and-play-right-now games, Charles Marinet’s departure as Mario, and the stunning return of Violence Island. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Tim Rogers asks: what’s the deal with people thinking you need to have played earlier games in a triple-A franchise’s newest release? (04:56) Brandon Sheffield asks: What are five games you could play any time? (14:04) What does a Mario Ambassador do? (23:00) Seth asks: If you could replace one of your arms with the arm of a video game character, whose arm would you pick? (34:36) If you could only judge real world animals by the way they were presented in video games, how would your opinions on animals be different? (39:07) What was the most significant “sliding doors” moment in video game history? (42:27) What happens when a player reports a bug in a video game? (47:28) What are the Mario and Sonic of food? (49:15) Tim Rogers asks: What if Charles Martinet just starts his own video game company, and like he makes a new character named Charlieo? (53:36) LIGHTNING ROUND: Violence Island Season 3 (55:13) Recommendations and Outro (01:15:26) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Diablo IV Baldur’s Gate III Final Fantasy XVI Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon Street Fighter 6 87% Missing: the Disappearance of Classic Video Games Street Fighter: 30th Anniversary Collection Resident Evil series Legend of Zelda series Dragon Quest series Kingdom Hearts series Metal Gear series <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/141485/final-fantasy-vii-remak
Mon, August 21, 2023
Ep. 301 - SimCommune, with Liz Ryerson
Insert Credit regular Liz Ryerson joins the panel to cover refreshed questions about the state of game journalism, romhacks, and running studios as co-ops. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Brandon Sheffield, and Liz Ryerson. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What the hell is wrong with game journalism? (03:56) Back in April of 2020, the panel was asked about the long term effects of the COVID outbreak on video games. What were they? (11:25) Liz Ryerson asked: What’s the hot new genre of video game in the year 2050? (20:17) Liz Ryerson asked: What’s your favorite romhack? (24:06) Which games have the most accurate names? (30:52) Who should get a PlayStation 5, and who should get an Xbox Series X? (35:22) Can a video game studio feasibly be run as a co-op? (41:27) How much fun should you put in a game before it starts making money? (46:42) LIGHTNING ROUND: The Ten Commandments of Video Games (52:45) Recommendations and Outro (55:30) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: EarthBound G/O Media reportedly fires Kotaku editor-in-chief Patricia Hernandez Yelling Is Not Journalism ContraPoints Animal Crossing: New Horizons Doom A Short Hike Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge Fortnite: Battle Royale More metaverse concerts are coming to Fortnite 100 gecs Hosting Square Garden Music Festival in Minecraft Mariah Carey Rasputin Music Unpacking Ooblets <a href="https://www.m
Sun, August 13, 2023
Ep. 300 - The Insert Credit Video Game
The founding members of Insert Credit Show, then known as The Insert Credit Podcast, answer our most frequently asked listener question. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Design the Insert Credit video game. (03:05) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Oakland, California Watch_Dogs 2 San Leandro, California Cinemark Century Bayfair Mall 16 Central Park Fruitvale, Oakland, California Temescal, Oakland, California Lanesplitter Pizza & Pub Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Joseph Emery Skatepark Wild Arms MacArthur station (BART) Oriental BBQ Chicken Town Frog Park Pixar Emeryville Shellmound Young Merlin Jim Power in “Mutant Planet” Hesher’s Pizza (try the Insert Credit) Other Ocean Interactive Classic Gaming Expo Game Developers Conference River City Ransom series <a href="https:/
Mon, August 07, 2023
Ep. 299 - Are You Out of Your Mind?
Fifty listener questions taking the form of “What is the ___ of video games?” are defeated by the full panel of the Insert Credit Show. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Vanilla Bean asks: What is the Aphex Twin to Radiohead to Coldplay of video games? (07:32) John H: What is the Studio Trigger of video games? (08:46) Danimal: Who (or what) is the Wednesday Campanella of video games? (10:14) Henry: What is the Action Comics #1 competition of video games? (11:42) Tomarrow: What is the meat and potatoes of video games? (12:49) Kiko b: What is the peanut butter and jelly on white bread of video games? (13:42) Ian: what’s the everything bagel of video games? (14:52) Gaagaagiins: What is the 2 in 1 shampoo and conditioner of video games? (15:37) Chris B: What is the “walking by a store on a hot day that has the front doors wide open with the AC blasting and you catch a sudden blast of freezing air” of video games? (16:52) Justin: What’s the “Live Free or Die Hard” of video games? (18:24) BrillPickle asks: What’s the Normcore of video games? (20:10) BrillPickle asks: What’s the healthgoth of video games? (21:09) Spencer: what is the “going to the movies but spending the whole time on your phone” of video games? (22:08) Cwumble Fletkh: Who is the Oedipus of video games? (23:08) Fighting fudon: What is the “I’ve had too much coffee and now I feel like death” of video games? (23:58) JackOakLeaf: What is the Marlon Brando as Don Corleone in The Godfather of video games? (25:24) Jimi: Who are the Jerry, Elaine, George, and Kramer of video game characters? (26:21) Jomch: What is the Frasier of videogames? (26:39) Dillson: What is the Hatsune Miku Guitar Synthesizer Stompbox of video games? (28:00) kory: What is the Jaws 19 from Back to the Future Part II of video games? (28:34) Anonymous: What is the finding an onion ring in your fries of video games? (29:12) Classic Anonymous: What is the Understanding Comics by Scott McCloud of video games? (31:22) U G: What is the Mark Z Danielewski’s House of Leaves of video games? (32:29) Shlooter McGavin: What is the “reading a magazine back to front” of video games? (33:26) gordon “matty” freeman: What is the “vinyl just sounds better, dude” of video games? (34:31) Insert Credit Quick Break: Patreon listeners, please check your info because Patreon screwed up (34:57) Maybesheforgot: What is the O Brother Where Art Thou of video games? (35:37) Jeff Mangum: Who or what is the Neutral Milk Hotel of video games? (36
Mon, July 31, 2023
Ep. 298 - X-Commies, with Lucy James
Giant Bomb, Gamespot and Friends Per Second’s Lucy James joins the panel to cover video game convention panels, Oppenheimer, and getting Americans to care about 4X games. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Brandon Sheffield, and Lucy James. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Is there a meaningful distinction between a minigame and a game within a game? (07:25) How do you make a really big game without overwhelming players? (12:48) What are the practical reasons to set a video game in the post-apocalypse? (18:38) What are the pitfalls to avoid when organizing or participating in a video game panel? (22:02) The Adaptation Game: Adapt Oppenheimer (2023) into a video game. (28:23) Insert Credit Quick Break: Moonstone Island on Steam (35:52) Tom Arrow asks: What are video games that best exemplify tragedy, comedy and romance? (37:15) What kind of video games do Americans not care about, and is there a way to change that? (43:32) What is the “You couldn’t make Blazing Saddles today” of video games? (48:10) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As - Mortal Kombat (53:43) Recommendations and Outro (57:25) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Super Mario Land Ace Attorney series Puyo Puyo~n Captain Marvel (2019) The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) Kojima’s Twitter Resident Evil 4 Metal Gear Solid NieR series Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Virtua Fighter series BioShock <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/2112/pipe-dream/"
Mon, July 24, 2023
Ep. 297 - The Thinking Man’s Gex
The same panel this show started with is whole once more, covering hype cycles, the real game console generations, and the Season 2 finale of Violence Island. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: merritt k asks: What are some games on 80s and 90s Japanese home computers you want translations of or official releases in the west? (05:32) What causes hype? Or, how do games become “overrated?” (11:23) Let’s talk about “game killers” (17:25) Who makes the best monsters? (23:53) What are the actual video game console generations? (30:32) Insert Credit Quick Break - The Free Cheese (41:22) From Winckle: What’s the best two button sequence in video games? (42:44) What do you think was the most difficult game to QA test? (49:06) LIGHTNING ROUND: Violence Island - Season 2 Finale (54:51) Recommendations and Outro (01:12:58) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: 87% Missing: the Disappearance of Classic Video Games 3DO Interactive Multiplayer Video Game History Foundation Limited Run Games Rusty Castlevania series El Viento My eyes! Princess Tomato in the Salad Kingdom Mamono Hunter Yōko: Makai kara no Tenkōsei Glove on Fight The Queen of Heart ’99 Ys series Valis Legend of Zelda series Xanadu games Portopia Renzoku
Mon, July 17, 2023
Ep. 296 - Junk Factory, with merritt k
Author and game developer merritt k joins the panel to cover recent industry developments, Gex, and coffin food. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and merritt k. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Is the game development business getting better or worse? (05:43) You heard about Gex? (10:47) Design a new platforming mascot based around a working standup comedian. (16:32) How do you make a game demo? (22:59) Jim Bunt 0008 asks: If a game controls with just one hand, what do with the other? (31:14) How has a game frustrated you most when not letting you do something you really should be able to do? (42:36) Which video game most perfectly fits into the genre which describes it? (48:17) LIGHTNING ROUND: Playground Rumors - Diablo IV (57:41) Recommendations and Outro (01:01:51) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Microsoft wins FTC fight to buy Activision Blizzard Sega workers form largest multi-department video game union in the US Sega are still investing in NFTs, but will keep their biggest series away from the blockchain M2 Hollywood actors hit picket lines in historic double strike Bungie wins landmark lawsuit against player who harassed Destiny staff Gex series Gex Trilogy announced for PS5, Xbox Series, PS4, Switch, and PC Bubsy series GEICO Dana Gould Red Dwarf Mad Men <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dana-goul
Mon, July 10, 2023
Ep. 295 - Born Sold Out, with Patrick Miller
Insert Credit Fighting Game Correspondent Patrick Miller rejoins the panel to share tips on commentating esports, developing fighting game characters, and powerwashing an island covered in diarrhea. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Patrick Miller. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Have you ever made an arbitrary non-video game decision just because it reminded you of something from a video game? (03:00) Which fighting game characters have most significantly changed how fighting games are played? (07:44) What future expansions should PowerWash Simulator add? (15:08) What are the qualities of a good esports commentator? (20:33) Improv Zone - RPG AI Dialogue (23:30) Insert Credit Quick Break - Demonschool Demo on Xbox July 11 (27:44) Yuji asks: what’s the coolest thing you can find at the edge of a world map? (28:53) How do you make a character design “look cooler?” (35:02) What’s the greatest comeback story in video game development history? (40:01) LIGHTNING ROUND: State Fighters - New Challengers (46:33) Recommendations and Outro (55:27) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Rent A Hero No. 1 VIDEOBALL NBA Jam series Mike Haggar Sega Sonic the Hedgehog games Capcom vs. SNK CVS Pharmacy Walgreens Duane Reade the riddle of steel Shenmue Street Fighter series Ryu Ken Masters <a href="https://www.mobygames.co
Mon, July 03, 2023
Ep. 294 - Final Fantastacular XVI, with Giovanni Colantonio, Gita Jackson, and Ash Parrish
Game journalists Giovanni Colantonio , Gita Jackson and Ash Parrish unite to make Insert Credit history: reviewing a video game. The party explores Final Fantasy XVI as a game, a story, and as a cultural artifact. Plus, the ten hottest Final Fantasy boys! Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Giovanni Colantonio, Gita Jackson, and Ash Parrish. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Chapters: Talking about the game (02:57) Talking about the story (FEATURES SPOILERS) (27:20) Talking about talking about the game (FEATURES SPOILERS) (58:43) Recommendations and Outro (01:25:27) LIGHTNING RETURNS ROUND : Rank the hottest Final Fantasy boys (01:26:35) Visit insertcredit.com for THE INSERT CREDIT RANKED LIST OF HOTTEST FINAL FANTASY BOYS (Protagonists) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Final Fantasy XVI Clive Rosfield (Final Fantasy XVI spoilers) Final Fantasy Tactics Advance Final Fantasy X Final Fantasy VIII Final Fantasy Tactics Devil May Cry series Moogle Chocobo Pokémon universe Forspoken The DioField Chronicle Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin Naruto vs Sasuke Devil May Cry 5 Final Fantasy XIV Online <
Mon, June 26, 2023
Ep. 293 - Catch a Wheat! with Felipe Pepe
Author of The CRPG Book Felipe Pepe joins the panel to determine what CRPGs are, how to play them, and what happened with the Gollum game. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Felipe Pepe. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What are the top ten video game submarines? (08:07) What the hell is going on with Lord of the Rings games? (14:36) What are we going to do about the name CRPG? (20:02) How do you delineate PC game history? (25:39) What’s a book about video games you wish existed but you don’t have eight years to write? (32:21) Mel Stone asks: Using only video game characters that have never appeared in an RPG, create the quintessential four-person RPG party (43:47) How do you design a video game magic system that doesn’t just rip off Dungeons & Dragons? (51:26) What’s the best way to get ancient computer games to run on modern PCs? (58:21) Recommendations and Outro (01:03:28) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Tales of Game’s Studios Presents Chef Boyardee’s Barkley, Shut Up and Jam: Gaiden, Chapter 1 of the Hoopz Barkley SaGa Space Funeral Undertale Ramble Planet Void Pyramid The CRPG Book Dungeon Crawl Stone Soup RPG Maker Pokémon fangames Pokemon Xenoverse Dragon Ball: Xenoverse Dragon Quest series Nintendo Direct 6.21.2023 In the Hunt Metal Slug series Steel Diver <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/15
Mon, June 19, 2023
Ep. 292 - Multiball, Multiball, Multiball! with Dan McQuade
Defector editor and co-founder Dan McQuade joins the panel to cover Summer Game Fest, the Apple Face Computer, and Avenders Engersgame. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Dan McQuade. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Anything at Summer Game Fest or the Xbox panel look cool? (04:42) Dan McQuade asks: How have people reacted to the new Final Fantasy? (16:43) Brandon, what game is Necrosoft going to make for the Apple Face Computer? (22:37) If you had the power to change any rule in any sport, how would you use it? (34:35) PersonalMatthew asks: Should developers always support button remapping? (42:38) Are there any true video game stories that could be made into movies? (53:53) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As: Madden (01:07:27) Recommendations and Outro (01:14:57) A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Summer Game Fest Xbox Games Showcase 2023 FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown Mortal Kombat 1 Fortnite Chapter 4 Season 3 WILDS Sonic Superstars Sonic the Hedgehog 4 series Knuckles’ Chaotix Sonic Mania Sonic Frontiers Final Fantasy XV Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Toshihiro Nagoshi Judgment / Judge Eyes series
Mon, June 12, 2023
Ep. 291 - Bye Forever Los Angeles, with Brandon Sheffield and Vincent Diamante
While attempting to promote Demonschool in the City of Angels, Brandon Sheffield joins fellow Insert Credit founder Vincent Diamante to drive a 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata, pontificate on the elusive nature of California, and shop for video games. Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, with Vincent Diamante. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Chapters: Kicked Out of the Mix (01:02) How Vincent Diamante Plays Treasure Games (09:32) The Secret Place in Little Tokyo (23:48) Car Talk: 6,666 (35:37) Book Off Explorations, pt. 1 - Games (52:44) Book Off Explorations, pt. 2 - Soundtracks (01:02:22) Book Off Explorations, pt. 3 - Books (01:03:57) Book Off Explorations, pt. 4 - A Living Museum (01:06:35) Things Do and Do Not Change (01:12:39) Reflection (01:37:48) Subscribe: RSS , Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and more!
Mon, June 05, 2023
Ep. 290 - Treasure Ranking, with Christa Lee
Your frothing demand for this podcast increases! Console modification expert Christa Lee joins Tim and Brandon to cover the original Konami defecting rock stars, Treasure Co., Ltd. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Christa Lee. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Not Necessarily a Eulogy For Treasure (03:44) 2D Genesis Platformers: Gunstar Heroes, Dynamite Headdy, Alien Soldier, and McDonalds Treasure Land Adventure (29:26) YuYu Hakusho Beat Em Ups: Yū Yū Hakusho: Makyō Tōitsusen, Guardian Heroes, Bleach: the Blade of Fate, and Bleach: Dark Souls (41:41) Neo 2D Middle Era: Mischief Makers, Silhouette Mirage, Tiny Toons Adventures: Buster’s Bad Dream, Astro Boy: Omega Factor, Advance Guardian Heroes, and Gunstar Super Heroes (49:41) Shootin’ Time: Radiant Silvergun, Ikaruga, Silpheed: The Lost Planet, and Gradius V (01:08:42) Insert Credit Quick Break: Archaeology Tube (01:33:59) Bangai-O Trilogy: Bangai-O, Bangai-O Spirits, Bangai-O HD: Missile Fury (01:36:07) Punishment Zone: Sin and Punishment, Sin & Punishment: Star Successor, and Dragon Drive: D-Masters Shot (01:51:21) The Rest: Light Crusader, Hajime no Ippo: The Fighting!, Wario World, Rakugaki Showtime, Stretch Panic!, Bleach: Versus Crusade, and Gaist Crusher God (02:04:53) Finalizing Rankings (02:25:32) Honorary Treasure Games and Final Treasure Thoughts (02:35:43) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums THE INSERT CREDIT RANKED LIST OF TREASURE GAMES Silhouette Mirage Gunstar Heroes Bangai-O Spirits Sin and Punishment Dynamite Headdy Radiant Silvergun McDonald’s Treasure Land Adventure Light Crusader Guardian Heroes Gradius V Bangai-O Bangai-O HD: Missile Fury Sin & Punishment: Star Successor Alien Soldier Stretch Panic Silpheed: The Lost Planet Astro Boy: Omega Factor Yu Yu Hakusho Bleach: Versus Crusade Bleach: The Blade of Fate Bleach: Dark Souls Tiny Toon Adventures: Buster’s Bad Dream Wario World Gunstar Super Heroes Mischief Makers Dragon Drive: D-Masters Shot Advance Guardian Heroes Geist Crusher God Hajime no Ippo: The Fighting Ikaruga Rakugaki Showtime A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Treasure Gaist Crusher God Astro Boy
Mon, May 29, 2023
Ep. 289 - Foamstar Runner
Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield cover that big Sony event, art styles for games, and the thrilling return of Violence Island. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: How ’bout that Playstation showcase? (05:13) Other than “realistic,” “cel shaded,” and “pixel art,” name some video game art styles. (18:20) Write some of those in-game Elder Scrolls books. (24:44) What would make those in-game Elder Scrolls books worth reading? (27:50) Insert Credit Quick Break - Sully: A Very Serious RPG (29:42) LeFish asks: What is the finding out that Santa isn’t real of video games? (31:26) Tim Rogers asks: HotB, or sofubi? (35:06) What car should be in every video game with cars? (43:02) When do you block, when do you dodge, and when do you parry? (49:26) Is there a system you’ve played every game for? (53:56) LIGHTNING ROUND: Violence Island (58:37) Recommendations and Outro (01:09:47) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Elio’s Family Restaurant Elder Scrolls series Playstation 2023 Showcase Bungie announces Marathon, a new sci-fi PvP extraction shooter Marathon Escape from Tarkov Capcom announces Dragon’s Dogma 2 Final Fantasy XVI - Awakening Trailer The Metal Gear Solid 3 remake is officially happening Metal Gear series Silent Hill 2 Panzer Dragoon Saga All our burning Qs about PlayStation’s Project Q <a href="htt
Mon, May 22, 2023
Ep. 288 - El Podcast Regular
The panel you know and love reconvenes to weigh in on Overwatch 2, the GameCube handle, and Minter’s thing. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What does it mean to beat a video game? (05:04) In the “games as service” era, when do you update a game, and when do you make a sequel? (11:20) What’s the best non-game feature a gaming console has ever had? (18:32) What kinds of things aren’t video games licensing that they should? (28:21) Insert Credit Quick Break: Egglien (33:12) From ShlooterMcGavin: What would an eSports Utility Vehicle be like? (34:40) When have game developers best anticipated player behavior? (44:21) What games have successfully ripped off older games without anyone really noticing? (49:17) What is the Who Shot Mr. Burns? of video games? (54:03) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As: Tears of the Kingdom (01:01:00) Recommendations and Outro (01:06:09) A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Hexyz Force Tubi 2B Ryo Hazuki Cooking Mama Pluto TV AMC+ Arthur Morgan Interview with the Vampire Kanopy Leon Kennedy Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Final Fantasy XV Overwatch series Overwatch 2’s director explains why its big PvE mode was canceled RuneScape Final Fantasy XIV Online Final Fantasy XI Online Forza Motorsport series<
Mon, May 15, 2023
Ep. 287 - Rated L, with Kat Bailey
IGN news director and Axe of the Blood God creator Kat Bailey joins the panel to discuss Metacritic scores, ranked polls, and what the ESRB actually does all day. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Kat Bailey. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Frank Cifaldi asks: What are the best British games? (05:11) Why doesn’t a Sight & Sound-style poll work for video games? (12:22) How does IGN review games? (25:33) If ESRB ratings were literal, which games would actually be for everyone, for teens, and mature? (29:43) Insert Credit Ad Break - Sully: A Very Serious RPG (36:45) Azurelore Korrigan asks: What medium is best for adapting to video games? (38:29) What’s something you wished video games would do, they eventually did, and now you’ve had enough? (45:14) What counts as video game news? (50:12) Did everyone here always know what IGN stands for? (58:09) LIGHTNING ROUND: From Yeso - Oblique Game Designs (59:24) Recommendations and Outro (01:06:54) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Final Fantasy VII: Remake Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Final Fantasy XV Final Fantasy V Sonic R Plok July 4th Best British Games Spectacular, with Bennett Foddy and Mathew Kumar Cannon Fodder Batman Ste and John Pickford Solar Jetman: Hunt for the Golden Warpship Equinox Tim Follin The Bitmap Brothers The Chaos Engine series</a
Mon, May 08, 2023
Ep. 286 - Musouls, with Blessing Adeoye Jr.
Kinda Funny Games host and producer Blessing Adeoye Jr. joins the panel to cover review scores for video games, Frank’s answer for good adventure game design, and the Capcom Five. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Blessing Adeoye Jr. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What do people expect from a review of a new game? (06:29) Who have been the best level designers since Doom? (17:23) How can a difficult video game puzzle keep players from losing patience and resolve to solve it? (25:06) Let’s all record some all purpose video game sample dialogue. (33:13) Insert Credit Ad Break: 100 Gold (37:36) Lloyd Irving asks: Rank the Capcom Five (38:50) Koei Tecmo wants you to scout the right IP for their next Musou game. Who do you approach? (46:46) LIGHTNING ROUND: Reccing Crew - Star Wars characters (54:42) Recommendations and Outro (01:07:06) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Chun-Li The Pest (1997) K’ Terry Bogard Garou: Mark of the Wolves Asuka 120% series Blue Mary Ramlethal Valentine Eddy Gordo Scorpion Takeda Takahashi Fight Night Round 3 PS5 controller could track your sweat and heart rate The Last of Us: Part I Redfall Star Wars: Jedi - Survivor Dead Rising <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/153627/cyb
Mon, May 01, 2023
Ep. 285 - Daria of Sorrow
The panel returns to classic formation to cover UX design, Microsoft acquisition developments, gross Yoshis, and sellouts within sellouts. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: From Simone de Rochefort: What else should Microsoft acquire and make exclusive? (03:33) What is The Day The Clown Cried of video games? (10:19) What makes a New Game+ feature the most enticing? (11:41) What are common terms game designers use that game players don’t? (17:10) How can User Interface inform the themes and story of a video game? (24:52) Let’s criticize some things we want to bring attention to. (31:13) Insert Credit Ad Break: Midautumn and Games and Feelings (37:04) JackOakleaf asks: How long should a cutscene be? (39:55) Which video game protagonist’s job would you want to do the least? (48:02) What is The Day The Clown Cried of video games? (54:19) LIGHTNING ROUND: Famicom Feud - Video Game Playboy Appearances (01:02:47) Recommendations and Outro (01:19:47) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Legend of Zelda series Vanillaware Ltd. Dragon’s Crown Horizon series Halo series Destiny series Britain blocks Microsoft acquisition of Activision Blizzard NieR George Washington Daria Harmy’s Despecialized Edition Call of Duty series Final Fantasy series <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/g
Wed, April 26, 2023
Ep. 284 - Let Me Be Frank, with Simone de Rochefort
What starts as a lively episode with Polygon editor and podcaster Simone de Rochefort becomes something far more interesting when one panelist’s audio goes missing. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Simone de Rochefort. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: From Frank Cifaldi: What is the Criterion Channel of video games? (10:48) Sega just bought Rovio. Why? (25:29) Simone, please convince the panel board games are good. (32:26) What’s the deal with those TikTok videos that all have Minecraft or Subway Surfer footage playing at the bottom? (38:48) Improv Zone - Video Game Pawn Shop (42:20) Zara asks: Have you ever recognized something deeply personal from your real life inside of a video game? (48:29) From Ash Parrish: Who is the American Mario? (55:24) LIGHTNING ROUND: VIOLENCE ISLAND (01:02:24) Recommendations and Outro (01:25:26) A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Elden Ring The Sun Also Rises Charles Leclerc Max Verstappen decimate The Criterion Channel The Criterion Collection Mega Man: Legacy Collection Tubi Letterboxd Rocket Legend of Zelda series DF Retro Shadow of the Colossus GameTap GameFly Yoshio Sakamoto Esper Boukentai Super Metroid Hollow Knight Koji Igarashi <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/17/23686155/sega-s
Mon, April 17, 2023
Ep. 283 - Oops! All Necrosoft, with Lotte May, Son M., and Jenna Stoeber
Necrosoft founder Brandon Sheffield sits with Necrosoft programmer Lotte May , Necrosoft producer Son M. , and Necrosoft marketing director Jenna Stoeber to mostly talk about romancing Merlin. Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, with Lotte May, Son M., and Jenna Stoeber. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What kinds of games should we be making with text? (03:05) What are the best untapped genre mashups in video games? (05:12) What are some under represented vehicles we should be using in games? (09:50) Design a new fantasy sports game. (12:20) What makes relationship systems in games compelling, and how can we make them even more compelling? (16:44) Alex Jaffe asks: If Necrosoft stuck to its original vision of being a game studio that only hires dead people, who would be on the payroll? (23:05) As of April 2023, how can content creators best present their work? (27:32) How will today’s youth silo themselves in the future? (33:31) What’s a question you’ve accidentally built your whole life around answering? (35:52) What part of your job would you be totally fine with AI taking away from you? (41:15) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design - Game Companies (43:20) Recommendations and Outro (48:01) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Necrosoft Games Xena Ace Attorney series Dwarf Fortress The Curious Case of Benjamin Button Merlin Game Dev Story Hi-Fi Rush Metal: Hellsinger Dead Space series Wii Vitality Sensor Hovercraft Sea of Thieves <a href="https://www.mobygame
Mon, April 10, 2023
Ep. 282 - Bye Forever GDC 2023, with Brandon Sheffield, Liz Ryerson, and Ty Underwood
Insert Credit reports directly from GDC 2023 . Brandon Sheffield relives past GDC memories with new and familiar faces, while Liz Ryerson and Ty Underwood dive into the dark underbelly of Web3 Cryptopits and explore the show floor. Segments: Brandon picks up his badge (00:00) Liz and Ty wait in line (02:33) Brandon interviews Greg Miller about GDC memories (08:10) Ty and Liz interview Evan Balster and Tammy Duplantis about why GDC is bad this year, lines, and lunch (14:46) Brandon hangs out with Ash Parrish in a bar watching baseball (19:13) Liz and Ty cover Web3 and the Trauma Trough with Emily Rose (23:43) Brandon and Vincent Diamante cover planes in hurricanes, cranky old men, and meeting IRC friends (28:28) Liz updates after emceeing the main stage (35:00) Liz and Ty walk the expo hall and talk to Issac Io Schankler (37:30) Brandon talks GDC memories in a bar with Kat Bailey , Wesley Fenlon , Jeremy Parish , and JJSignal (45:07) Liz recovers after a difficult day (54:25) Brandon shares his reason for coming to GDC (and DICE) and shares shoe repair tricks (56:26) Liz tests positive for covid (01:03:50) Ty reports for the Experimental Game Workshop and asks the hard questions (01:05:52) Brandon settles on an Italian restaurant with Frank Cifaldi , Chris Charla , and Kelsey Lewin and share stories (01:10:09) Brandon and Jenn Sandercock have a serendipitous meeting (01:29:02) Ty scours Yerba Buena to get final thoughts on the conference (01:30:09) Brandon gets Jim Stormdancer ’s GDC memories (01:32:28) Brandon and Ash Parrish discuss preconceptions, Kirby, Iran, and the giving nature of people at GDC (01:35:25) Ty unwinds with Eva Khoury to get the vibe of the show (01:51:22) Brandon runs into Mimsy and talks parties and Oakland (01:52:04) Ty shares t
Mon, April 03, 2023
Ep. 281 - Flawful Loss, with Casey Explosion
Twitch streamer Casey Explosion joins the panel to talk Resident Evil 4 Remake, Ash Ketchum, and region locked soda machines. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Casey Explosion. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Vincent Diamante asks: What’s the most dangerous thing you’ve ever done to obtain a video game? (03:08) Has the Steam Deck lived up to everything we thought it might be? (11:17) How do you pick what to play next? (17:49) How would you end Ash Ketchum’s story? (25:17) Scoregem asks: What games have a button that lets you roleplay? (30:57) Are there any games that do what BioShock can’t? (38:37) What is the least evil big video game company? (45:22) How’s that Resident Evil 4 remake? (51:30) LIGHTNING ROUND: Fursona Royal (55:49) Recommendations and Outro (01:07:18) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Resident Evil series Acclaim Games Midway Games Mortal Kombat series 100 Bullets “Baby Cries” Sketch PlayStation 3 SNK 40th Anniversary Collection Ridge Racer 7 Steam Deck Persona series Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series GPD Win 2 Pandora Slay the Spire Horizon: Zero Dawn Uncharted series Days Gone <a href="https://www.mobygames.c
Mon, March 27, 2023
Ep. 280 - Zimulation, with Vincent Diamante and ThorHighHeels
Composers Vincent Diamante and ThorHighHeels join Tim in covering modern video game news sources, mysterious games, and excellent yacht names. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Tim Rogers, Vincent Diamante, and ThorHighHeels. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Here and now in 2023, how do you get video game news? (08:59) What qualifies a game as mysterious? (14:39) Tell me about a project that you really believed in at one point, but couldn’t find a way to make it come together. (18:46) What subject could you give an unprepared GDC talk on? (28:29) From Kyle: What’s the newest game genre, excluding overt combinations of established genres? (36:36) Are YouTube audiences more interested in hearing about bad video games than good ones? (48:26) Why do you think people like what you do? (54:17) LIGHTNING ROUND: Pull Quotes (59:32) Recommendations and Outro (01:09:39) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: The Witcher series S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Assassin’s Creed series Phonopath Elden Ring Christa Lee Shadow the Hedgehog Cyberpunk 2077 Starfield Germs: Nerawareta Machi Bullet Witch NieR Sonic Adventure 2 Blender Unity ProBuilder Flower Sun and Rain Final Fantasy XV Undertale <a href="https://www.mobygam
Mon, March 20, 2023
Ep. 279 - Cauliflower If It Makes Sense, with Jeff Gerstmann
Video game journalist Jeff Gerstmann sits down at the Insert Credit table to cover video game history, AI, and the return of Violence Island. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Jeff Gerstmann. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Have any of you seen the news lately? (09:58) Let’s examine the evolution of the endless runner. (21:53) Wrestling games. Glorified character creators, or is there something there gameplay-wise? (28:22) Definitively rank tank, healer, and DPS from best to worst. (35:52) Kyle asks: Form a musical super group composed of video game characters. (43:38) Are AI programs like ChatGPT good for video games? (50:44) LIGHTNING ROUND: Violence Island (01:03:50) Recommendations and Outro (01:23:49) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series GDC James Austin Johnson The Jeff Gerstmann Show Service Discontinuation: Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS EU’s Microsoft-Activision Deadline Delay Puts UK in Driving Seat Detroit: Become Human Final Fantasy Creator On Why He Thinks ‘Quality’ Japanese Games Saw A Brief Drop Square Enix’s NFT game has a new trailer Commodore 1571 https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2023/03/why-game-archivists-are-dreading-this-months-3ds-wii-u-eshop-shutdown/ Canabalt <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2021/5/1
Mon, March 13, 2023
Ep. 278 - Nintendo 3DSpectacular, with Mathew Kumar
Insert Credit Scottish Correspondent Mathew Kumar sits with the panel just before the March 27, 2023 closing of the Nintendo 3DS eShop to cover the console’s legacy, hardware innovations, and games worth playing. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Mathew Kumar. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Segments : How was the 3DS hardware used? (08:37) What 3DS games need to be brought to another console? (25:04) 3DS Recommendations (38:25) LIGHTNING ROUND : Ranking the 3DS Recommendations (01:17:55) THE INSERT CREDIT RANKED RECOMMENDATION LIST FOR NINTENDO 3DS: Attack of the Friday Monsters! Shin Megami Tensei IV The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Shadow Wars Gotta Protectors Kokuga Sega 3D Classics Collection Super Mario 3D Land Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor Overclocked Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past Dillon’s Dead-Heat Breakers Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia Etrian Odyssey IV Etrian Odyssey Nexus Code Name: S.T.E.A.M. Rusty’s Real Deal Baseball Persona Q (Series) Culdcept Revolt Picross Pocket Card Jockey Ridge Racer 3D Recommendations and Outro (01:29:42) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Nintendo 3DS The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D Satoru Iwata Reggie Fils-Aimé Sega 3D Classics Collection Picross 3D Avatar: The Way of Water (2023) Nintendo 2DS Animal Crossing: New Leaf Steel Diver Super Mario 3D World R4 cartridge <a href="https://www.m
Mon, March 06, 2023
Ep. 277 - The Hitness, with MoxBagel
Guest host and frequent dirtbag Colin AKA MoxBagel keeps the panel in order as they discuss the definition of “visual novel,” fighting games, and, finally, Fortnite. Questions this week: What is your “The Last Starfighter” game? (05:20) How would you redesign pinball to be more of a 30 minute experience than a five minute experience?(11:25) What fighting game has the most creative single player campaign?(18:57) If Capcom made a Mega Man Legends every year since 1997, what would it be like now? (24:43) What game would have flourished with the amount of post-release support that No Man’s Sky has? (32:26) What is your favorite novel gameplay mechanic or moment in an otherwise unremarkable game? (40:23) What is the best video game to play in fifteen minute sessions? (47:17) LIGHTNING ROUND : World of Lords (54:22) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: INSERT CREDIT EPISODE 276 ULTIMATE PAIN DICEGAME UCHIHA BONE ROLLER MIX , a free noise album by dicegame uchiha based on Episode 276 of Insert Credit Show Colin AKA MoxBagel √Letter The Cat in the Hat Understanding Comics Hotel Dusk: Room 215 Ace Attorney series Tokimeki Memorial Memories Off The Last Starfighter (1984) Space Jam (1996) Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan Asuka 120% Final: BURNING Fest. Puyo Puyo~n Mother Alien Pinball
Mon, February 27, 2023
Ep. 276 - Bye Forever DICE 2023
Brandon Sheffield and Frank Cifaldi report from Las Vegas, where they supposedly attended the 2023 DICE Summit, but mostly ran into used game stores and friends of Insert Credit. Featuring Alex Jaffe, Brandon Sheffield, Frank Cifaldi, Chris Kohler, Ally McLean, Mathew Kumar, and Kris Graft. SEGMENTS Retro City Games shopping with Chris Kohler (00:51) Retro City Games shopping with Ally McLean (10:48) Driving with Chris Kohler, Ally McLean and Frank Cifaldi from Retro City Games to another used game store (16:09) Brandon discusses the plot of The $cheme (2003) with Ally McLean (25:18) Getting lost in the car after Retro City Games #2 (27:08) A miserable situation involving accoustic covers of popular music (38:15) In the Circus Circus hotel room (39:17) Walking through Circus Circus (42:15) 6 AM stories with Kris Graft (44:00) Post-show thoughts from Brandon and Frank (58:56) Discuss this episode in the forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: D.I.C.E. Summit Retro City Games Chris Kohler King’s Quest series How To Draw Gex & The Gang Space Quest: Chapter I - The Sarien Encounter Leisure Suit Larry series Phantasmagoria series The 7th Guest Jet Force Gemini Demon Destroyer Gunn DOOM Decent Heretic Arkanoid: Revenge of DOH Taito Retronauts Episode 498: Taito Part III
Mon, February 20, 2023
Ep. 275 - Even More Games of the Year 2022
A single episode could never hope to contain all the video games of 2022 played by Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield. Get comfortable and sit down for a hang out with some of the rest of last year’s best. Hosted by Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Games Discussed: Square-Enix HD-2D Games (Live A Live, Triangle Strategy, Bravely Default II, Diofield Chronicles) (07:42) Valkyrie Elysium (26:40) Star Ocean: Divine Force (30:52) Voice of Cards (42:45) Babylon’s Fall (46:22) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge (54:35) Gran Turismo 7 (58:07) Shin chan: Me and the Professor on Summer Vacation - The Endless Seven-Day Journey (59:20) Sifu (01:05:12) Rollerdrome (01:10:05) Potion Craft: Alchemist Simulator (01:11:16) NORCO (01:12:24) Chained Echoes (01:13:38) Cult of the Lamb (01:18:25) The Quarry (01:18:42) PowerWash Simulator (01:19:07) Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII - Reunion (01:21:19) NeverAwake (01:25:45) Final Vendetta (01:26:39) Weird West (01:27:30) Evil West (01:29:59) Horizon II: Forbidden West (01:33:18) A Plague Tale: Requiem (01:41:16) The Callisto Protocol (01:45:21) Gungrave: G.O.R.E (01:50:45) Splatoon 3 (01:54:38) Pokemon Scarlet & Violet (01:58:18) Pokemon Legends: Arceus (02:00:51) Judgment (02:02:42) A Few More From Brandon (02:03:51) 2023 Predictions (02:11:05) Recommendations and Outro (02:14:34) Visit the forums to discuss this episode A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Final Fantasy series Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series New York Knicks He Got Game (1998) Live A Live Dragon Quest series Chrono Trigger Sony Alpha a7S III Mirrorless Digital Camera Triangle Strategy Bravely Default II <
Mon, February 13, 2023
Ep. 274 - Game of the Year 2022
Our panel debates the rankings greatest video games of 2022, and devises cryptic inscriptions for each one so that others may follow their path. Hosted by Alex Jaffe , with Frank Cifaldi , Tim Rogers , and Brandon Sheffield . Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman . NOMINATIONS: Frank Round 1 (08:37) Tim Round 1 (12:35) Brandon Round 1 (17:46) Frank Round 2 (28:29) Tim Round 2 (33:55) Brandon Round 2 (36:49) Frank Round 3 (44:22) Tim Round 3 (57:18) Brandon Round 3 (01:04:08) Frank Round 4 (01:11:09) Tim Round 4 (01:17:20) Brandon Round 4 (01:24:33) Frank Round 5 (01:33:50) Tim Round 5 (01:47:03) Brandon Round 5 (01:54:16) Frank Round 6 (02:02:43) Tim Round 6 (02:05:34) Brandon Round 6 (02:10:14) Frank Round 7 (02:15:14) Tim Round 7 (02:19:30) Brandon Round 7 (02:25:14) Wrap-up (02:36:25) Visit our forum thread to see the finalized list A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Top Gun: Maverick (2022) The Deal Guy Nope (2022) Fry’s Electronics Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019) Game Dude Five Fingers for Marseilles (2017) They Live (1988) Them! (1954) Capriotti’s Elden Ring Elden Ring Message System (ERMS) PowerSlave: Exhumed System Shock series Metroid Prime DOOM
Mon, February 06, 2023
Ep. 273 - Insert Credit Annual #4
Insert Credit returns to once again rank the best games of all time. Hosted by Alex Jaffe , with Frank Cifaldi , Tim Rogers , and Brandon Sheffield . Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman . NOMINATIONS: Brandon, Round 1 (05:35) Frank, Round 1 (10:24) Tim, Round 1 (13:58) Brandon, Round 2 (19:15) Frank, Round 2 (24:45) Tim, Round 2 (31:41) Brandon, Round 3 (39:59) Frank, Round 3 (46:58) Tim, Round 3 (51:59) Brandon, Round 4 (58:44) Frank, Round 4 (01:04:21) Tim, Round 4 (01:09:11) Brandon, Round 5 (01:16:35) Frank, Round 5 (01:19:46) Tim, Round 5 (01:22:44) Brandon, Round 6 (01:29:16) Frank, Round 6 (01:34:01) Tim, Round 6 (01:36:07) Brandon, Round 7 (01:39:27) Tim choosing on Frank’s behalf, Round 7 (01:41:28) Tim, Round 7 (01:44:16) View the finalized list at forums.insertcredit.com A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Ep. 27 - Insert Credit Annual #1, with Kris Graft Super Mario Bros. 3 Ep. 74 - Insert Credit Annual #2 Panzer Dragoon II: Zwei Ep. 166 - Insert Credit Annual #3 DOOM Bonk’s Revenge Dragon Quest III Ninja Spirit Pong Crash ’N Score Jet Fighter Pursuit Spacewar! The Legend of Zelda Metroid <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/turbografx-cd/tokimek
Mon, January 30, 2023
Ep. 272 - New Donk, Michigan
Ep. 272 - New Donk, Michigan Our beloved panel covers big game worlds, big game choices, and big twin Tallaricos. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by goop lord , original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Jason Schreier asks: Which Mario stage/level/kingdom/board would you want to live in and why? (04:02) How do you trick a player into feeling like your video game world is big? (10:23) What do people mean when they say that choices you make in a video game should matter? (17:40) Dirtbag Dusting - Sam: What game emotionally resonated with you most as a teen? Vermont Boy: What games are most improved by listening to something else? Anonymous: What game has the longest time between setup and payoff? (24:58) Alex Jaffe asks: Is there any reason for a game with a controllable character to not have a jump button? (38:40) Which video games have caused industry-wide shifts in graphical aesthetics? (45:52) What video game characters do you think would most overuse emojis? (50:09) Review the Rubik’s Cube. (53:57) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design (58:50) Recommendations and Outro (01:05:13) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Kirby 10-Yard Fight Batman: Arkham series Super Mario series E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial Assassin’s Creed series Prince of Persia series Spyro the Dragon series Zero Divide Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Cheers Leisure Suit Larry series Bashi-bazouk <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/
Tue, January 24, 2023
Ep. 271 - FunJail, with Jason Schreier
Bloomberg Game Journalist and Author Jason Schreier joins the panel to cover Wizards of the Coast, the greatest story in video games, and whether or not buying games is ethical. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Jason Schreier. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Cliff Bleszinski asks: What food do you associate with your best gaming memory? (07:16) Why is everybody so mad about Dungeons & Dragons? (15:22) What is the greatest story in video games? (20:59) How do you break news no one else has yet as a game journalist? (28:26) You have an investor meeting in 6 minutes to pitch them a new social media network for Gamers. What’s your presentation? (34:51) Spencer Gifts asks: which game console libraries boxes have the best graphic design? (40:49) Under what circumstances is it unethical to buy a video game? (49:26) LIGHTNING ROUND: MobyCritic (55:30) Recommendations and Outro (58:50) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Stadia exclusive saved by sneaking it into the Steam version of its sequel Frosted Flakes Final Fantasy III Final Fight series Dairy Queen Dragon Quest series White Castle Wing Commander series Death Line (1972) Dragon Force Panzer Dragoon series Guitar Hero series Chrono Trigger Blue Dragon series The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion <a href="https://en.wikiped
Mon, January 16, 2023
Ep. 270 - Leisure Suit Locusts, with Cliff Bleszinski
Game Designer and Broadway Producer Cliff “CliffyB” Bleszinski joins a very sensual episode to cover what makes good third person shooters, Avatar 2, and disrespecting Hitman. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Cliff Bleszinski. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: From Brandon Sheffield: What makes a good third person shooter? (06:18) Who has more power, a game director, or a game producer? (14:44) Design a video game around the Aroma Shooter. (23:27) Design a sequel to Frank Cifaldi’s Super Sherlock Holmes. (31:25) Improv Zone: Guess the COG Squadron (37:04) Seth asks: What is the best sound related to video games that is not from a video game? (43:26) If you could design a level for an existing video game series, which would it be and what would you do? (49:58) What was Fortnite supposed to be? (55:03) LIGHTNING ROUND : Name Design – Gears of War Achievements (01:00:53) Recommendations and Outro (01:07:14) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Time.is The Menu (2022) Jazz Jackrabbit series NFL 2K Assault Street Fighter series Unreal Tournament series Gears of War series Hadestown Robotron: 2084 Tokyo Wars Phoenix Mindjack Resident Evil 4 Lunar: The Silver Star Control Alan Wake High on Life <a href="https:/
Mon, January 09, 2023
Ep. 269 - Pure Podcast Content, with Christa Lee
Console modification expert Christa Lee joins Brandon and Tim on the panel to cover raytracing in 4K at 120 fps, the things players care about that developers don’t, and the return of Violence Island. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Christa Lee. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: From Ash Parrish : What video game would you swear into Congress on? (01:59) What can you tell about a video game cartridge from its circuit board? (09:41) Is raytracing just a graphical enhancement, or can it be gameplay? (15:02) What do players think about a lot more than game developers? (20:33) What is the best dead video game company? (26:32) Spencergifs asks: When did video games become mainstream? (29:51) Violence Island (36:57) How should games signal that a “point of no return” is coming? (46:57) LIGHTNING ROUND : Pokedexperts (01:02:41) Recommendations and Outro (01:09:37) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Bonk series Canceled Duke Nukem 3D remake is the latest Duke project to leak They Live (1988) Robert Garcia (D-CA) sworn into Congress on Superman #1 Bible The Witness Sneak King Disaster Report / Zettai Zetsumei Toshi series Xevious Darius Gradius Anarchy Reigns Murakumo: Renegade Mech Pursuit Armored Core series Super Mario series Shenmue series <a href="htt
Mon, January 02, 2023
Ep. 268 - Cake Realizer Button
The original panel reunites for Frank Cifaldi’s two point-and-click adventure game recommendations, the best kind of game for Tim Rogers right now, and Brandon Sheffield’s selection as the Whitney Houston of video games. Plus, Bennett Foddy designs a new game for the Steel Battalion controller. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What’s your favorite tribute to a video game in another video game? (WARNING: This question features minor Death Stranding spoilers) (04:58) Categorize every type of mission in a video game. (10:01) Narratively, what is happening to a video game character when they lose a life? (13:10) What video game should get a new remake every year? (19:58) Design a new game for the Steel Battalion controller. (25:50) Design a new game for the Steel Battalion controller, Bennett Foddy. (31:27) Soup’um asks: What is the absolute minimum length a game has to be to no longer be considered ‘short’? (36:48) What is the Whitney Houston’s cover of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” for the soundtrack of the film The Bodyguard of video games? (50:18) LIGHTNING ROUND : GameFAQ&As – Fortnite (55:47) Recommendations and Outro (59:36) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Vampire Hunter D Robert Wilson IV NieR series From Tokyo with Brandon Sheffield, Part I and Part II Lupin the 3rd licensees Galaga Namco Museum series Dragon Quest series Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Populous Bomberman games Death Stranding Super Mario series ICO <a h
Tue, December 27, 2022
Ep. 267 - Asynchronicity 2: Holiday Spectacular
A grand cast of holiday favorites are subjected to a gauntlet of questions. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Brandon Sheffield, Ash Parrish, Patrick Miller, Topher Florence, Esper Quinn, Andrés Velasco y Coll, Azurelore Korrigan, Liz Ryerson, K Thor Jensen and Fūnk-é Joseph. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week : What are the worst trends, currently or historically, in video game character design? (w/Ash Parrish) (06:38) Design a unique custom rule set for a fighting game tournament. (w/Patrick Miller) (11:33) Which three video game characters would you ask to help you move? (w/Topher Florence) (14:59) What do you do when you’re working on a game and your funding gets cut? (18:17) What’s the best time you ever had with a bad game? (w/Esper Quinn) (21:25) Which video game voice actors deserve wider recognition? (w/Andrés Velasco y Coll) (27:30) What’s the best answer that someone in the game industry has given you to a question you asked them? (w/Azurelore Korrigan) (31:17) How would you remake Indie Game: The Movie today? (w/Liz Ryerson) (37:13) Which modern video game would be the best introduction to video games for a child? (w/K Thor Jensen) (43:21) What’s the difference between a good video game and a cool video game? (w/Fūnk-é Joseph) (45:55) LIGHTNING ROUND : Recommendations and Outro (47:59) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Last Of Us Showrunner Says Original Game Is ‘The Greatest Story Ever Told In Video Games’ Hyper Gunsport now available on Steam, Switch and Xbox Demonschool now wishlistable on Steam Baldur’s Gate III Characters entering public domain in 2023 Sonic the Hedgehog universe Bubsy series Sparkster Awesome Possum Kicks Dr. Machino’s Butt Tetsuya Nomura <a href="https://www.mobyga
Mon, December 19, 2022
Ep. 266 - Perspexpertise
Our standard party of panelists covers the newly announced God of War and Death Stranding adaptations, what they’d teach in game design school, hangout flavors, and Christopher Lambert. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Who were the kings of the lost art of video game packaging? (05:40) Which games make the weird controllers they were designed for worth using? (12:57) Other than fatherhood, what types of interpersonal relationships should games explore? (19:59) What’s the worst flavor text in video games? (26:04) In the Death Stranding movie, who should play Sam Porter Bridges? (31:17) What questions would you put on a written exam in a game design class? (39:15) What would you change about the last video game you played? (44:25) How would you describe your unique perspective and how would you put that in a video game? (51:42) How would you break down the first screen of Super Mario Bros.? (56:34) LIGHTNING ROUND : The Price is Sprite (from Yeso) (01:04:56) Recommendations and Outro (01:12:38) Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Batman: The Animated Series Guillermo del Toro The incredible boxes of Hock Wah Yeo Prince of Persia series Spectre Gabriel Knight series Worms series Westworld Rome Deadwood A Man Called Hawk Internet Archive Resident Evil series Crazy Controllers – The Resident Evil Pad Wicked Monsters: BLAST!</a
Mon, December 12, 2022
Ep. 265 - Starfield and Friends
The panel is ill-prepared for these questions, but unites once more to cover The Game Awards 2022, cool ladies, and the greatest game of all time no one is talking about yet. Brandon Sheffield reviews the first four episodes of Bleach and One Piece. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Do we want to talk about the FTC suing to block Microsoft from buying Activision Blizzard? (06:37) From Ash Parrish : if you could lock Geoff Keighley in a room and make him reveal the video game industry’s biggest secret, what would you ask him? (09:13) Let’s try to have a sincere discussion about The Game Awards (11:43) Let’s predict The Game Awards (20:48) How have video games influenced our vocabulary? (37:24) Does a video game protagonist have to be likable? (42:47) Insert Credit Anime Review: Bleach vs. One Piece (48:32) Mek asks: has there ever been a good boss fight in a first person shooter? (54:54) Which fighting game has the coolest lady? (01:00:37) What is the Jeanne Dielman, 23 quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles of video games? (01:05:24) LIGHTNING ROUND : Improv Zone - Introducing the Nominees (01:16:20) Recommendations and Outro (01:22:02) A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Michigan J. Frog - “Hello My Baby” Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan / Elite Beat Agents series Dragon Quest series The Sopranos Dororo Parasite Eve Gungrave series FTC Seeks to Block Microsoft Corp.’s Acquisition of Activision Blizzard Monopoly The Game of Life Itadaki Street series Disney’s Bonkers</a
Mon, December 05, 2022
Ep. 264 - Doki Doki Paisano, with Ash Parrish
Video Game Reporter Ash Parrish joins the panel to cover unfinished games, Mario’s origins, and the friendship-building return of Violence Island. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Brandon Sheffield, and Ash Parrish. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Is Mario Italian? (04:22) From Esper Quinn: If a game offers you a starting class of Warrior, Wizard, Rogue or Cleric, which do you choose and why? (09:30) With Sonic Frontiers and the new Pokemon games we must ask, what does it mean for a game to be finished? (13:15) Do you have any questions for Alex Jaffe? (24:33) Spencer’s Gifts asks: What is the best game with the worst graphics, and what is the worst game with the best graphics? (30:55) Violence Island (36:37) Who or what is the Gritty of video games? (53:06) LIGHTNING ROUND : Dirtbag Diving (55:08) Recommendations and Outro (58:57) A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Gunhouse Mr. Hooper Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper The Super Mario Bros. Movie Official Trailer Bob Hoskins The Sopranos Pod Yourself A Gun Yume Kōjō: Dokidoki Panic Diablo series The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Cadash Pokémon Sonic Frontiers Gunsport Hyper Gunsport now wishlistable on steam Sonic Mania Sonic Adventure The Adventures of Batman & Robin Batman: The Video Game <a href="https://www.mobygames.com
Mon, November 28, 2022
Ep. 263 - Extractula the Dracula, with Esper Quinn
Editor Esper Quinn joins the table to give thanks for a feast of listener submitted questions. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Esper Quinn. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Max asks: What is the most fun or interesting scoring mechanic in a shooting game? (10:59) Malcove asks: How would you reintroduce vampires to modern video games? (14:44) A Most Handsome Boy asks: Thoughts on a good steam? (16:56) ColdPie asks: what type of tourism opportunities would you take advantage of if you were visiting the Republic of Gamers? (20:37) BreadyToDie asks: Have you ever played the sequel of a game before playing the original? (22:53) Pannekoeken asks: What happened to rhythm games? (26:32) Dilson asks: Which cooking games aren’t boring? (33:56) Ripley Rose proposes an Improv Zone – Sonic’s Dad Got Arrested (38:19) Gaagaagiins asks: When has a video game adaptation been objectively better than the source material? (43:33) Anonymous asks: What singleplayer game should have gotten a competitive multiplayer mode? (48:49) Ross Hamrick asks: Which arcade racing game has the best manual transmission? (52:01) Cole asks: are Japanese video game scores better for a reason? (56:32) Kiko B asks: Which two video game franchises would be improved by swapping protagonists? (01:04:28) Terrace asks: What was the Secret of Evermore?(01:06:52) LIGHTNING ROUND: Crumbling Zero asks to Rank the Metacritic Top 10 (01:07:50) Recommendations and Outro (01:32:22) A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Klonoa series The Club Battlefield 1942 Ikaruga Star Soldier Unreal Tournament series Bulletstorm Vampyr Castlevania / Akumajō Dracula series Vampire Survivors Itch.io Internet Archive JDownloader Call of Dut
Mon, November 21, 2022
Ep. 262 - Phantastic, with Gita Jackson
Journalist Gita Jackson joins the full panel to decide how much video games should cost, share research tips, and reveal Barbies in the garbies. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Gita Jackson. Featuring Harper Jay, Azurelore Korrigan, and Vincent Diamante, with writing by Mark Cerny. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: From Andrés Velasco y Coll: Has there been a speedrun that particularly impressed you? Or, how would you ruin Sony Computer Entertainment? (06:16) Now that every issue of Nintendo Power is uploaded to the Internet Archive, what should we do with it? (13:09) What should it cost to buy a video game? (19:46) What can we say about the legacy of Rieko Kodama? (34:39) Insert Credit contributors share memories of Rieko Kodama (48:31) Kiko asks: is it ever worthwhile to play all the way through a game you hate? (01:02:15) LIGHTNING ROUND: Localization Station (01:11:55) Recommendations and Outro (01:18:25) A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: F-Zero GX Twisted Metal series Mario Kart series PlayStation VR2 launches on February 22nd for $549.99 PlayStation Vita Recording Kendrick with a Vita Battlefield series PlayStation TV Jak & Daxter series The Walking Dead (franchise) The Last of Us series 28 Days Later (2002) Station Eleven You Can Now Read All 285 Issues Of Nintendo Power Online Retromags Demonschool wishlistable now on Steam Humble Bundle <a h
Mon, November 14, 2022
Ep. 261 - Clown Insanity, with Andrés Velasco y Coll and Fūnk-é Joseph
EVO tournament organizer Andrés Velasco y Coll and PC Gamer editor Fūnk-é Joseph join Frank and Jaffe for the new Sonic game, predatory publisher tactics, and Nickelodeon’s Fortnite. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Andrés Velasco y Coll, and Fūnk-é Joseph. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Are 3D Sonic games a failed experiment? (04:17) How do games best emulate being able to fly? (10:03) What precautions should developers take to avoid being taken advantage of by publishers? (14:11) How do you curate a video game zine? (18:37) The Adaptation Game: Turn a video game into a daytime game show (24:00) Bearcabin asks: What kinds of developers would video game magazines end up being? (29:44) Are there any good video game ads? (35:45) What is more difficult to do in video games than in real life? (42:32) What is the Avatar: The Way of Water of video games? (46:56) LIGHTNING ROUND : Major Arcana (54:52) Recommendations and Outro (59:48) A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker Donkey Kong Country The King of Fighters ’98: The Slugfest Portal series Sonic the Hedgehog universe SEGA Bass Fishing Super Mario World Batman: Arkham series Pilotwings Final Fantasy XIV Online: A Realm Reborn Minecraft Defender Dank Zine the photo Andres drops in question 4 Fortnite series Candy Crush Fruit Ninja
Mon, November 07, 2022
Ep. 260 - Banjo-Kazoomer
The full panel reunites to determine what a video game is, how to do RPG dungeon music right, and Bob Oldfather. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Why did Embracer Group acquire Square Enix Montreal, change its name to Onoma, and then immediately shut it down? (05:25) What kind of video game items do you never want to use again? (08:09) When you’re playing an RPG and you complete an enemy encounter, should the overworld or dungeon theme start over from the beginning, pick up where it left off, or just play through the encounter itself? (15:15) NASCAR racer Ross Chastain pulled off a risky wall-riding maneuver this week setting a lap record, claiming that he learned the move from playing NASCAR 2005 on the GameCube. How is it that video games are changing the way sports are played in real life? (21:04) Is this particular dartboard a video game console? (30:02) Violence Island (39:17) LIGHTNING ROUND : From Yeso: Guess the game based on its Metacritic review (01:06:38) Recommendations and Outro (01:13:31) A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: The Laughing Cow Light Cheese Spread Kosher Natural & Kosher Shredded White Mozzarella Cheese Cheez-It® Extra Toasty Snack Crackers Goldfish Crackers Video Game Studio Goes Through Expensive Rebrand, Is Then Immediately Shut Down Final Fantasy series Hollow Knight Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Pokémon main RPG series Dragon Quest series Adventures of Superman NieR series Phantasy Star IV <a href="https://www.polygon.com/23433134/ross-chastain-wall-ride-na
Mon, October 31, 2022
Ep. 259 - Specdracular 2022, with Christa Lee
Game music composer and console restoration expert Christa Lee joins this year’s monster hunting party, taking on evils like foreshadowing, deceptively powerful industry figures, and ranking the Silent Hill series. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Tim Rogers, Brandon Sheffield, and Christa Lee. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this year: What do we think of all the Silent Hill stuff that got announced? (03:35) What games best use technological constraints to their advantage? (09:59) When does a game seem perfect for you, but still doesn’t work? (15:58) What’s the right way to do foreshadowing in a video game? (23:09) The Fightening Return of Questions Deemed Too Stupid for the Dirtbag (29:36) What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken in a video game? (39:50) Should video games even have unwinnable scenarios? (46:05) Who are the most surprisingly powerful people in the video game industry? (53:06) LIGHTNING ROUND: Ranking the Silent Hill series (01:00:39) Recommendations and Outro (01:12:32) Visit the forums to see the final ranking of the Silent Hill series ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Silent Hill series Clock Tower series Septentrion: Out of the Blue Mizzurna Falls Ihatovo Monogatari Ep. 207 - Specdracular 2021, with Ian Ferguson Konami announces Silent Hill F and a Silent Hill 2 remake Resident Evil series Super Mario series Silent Hill 2: Enhanced Edition Higurashi: When They Cry series Siren series Vectorman series Eternal Champions <li
Mon, October 24, 2022
Ep. 258 - Tapey Toppies
The panel reunites in total to cover the death of the Stadia, if it’s ever okay to make a 30 FPS game, and Aqua Teen Hunger Force. Questions this week: Find any long lost NES games lately, Frank? (06:18) What do we have to say about the passing of the Stadia? (13:15) Which video game franchise took the greatest number of releases to start getting interesting? (19:01) When can a current game justify a 30 FPS frame rate? (25:03) Jaffe Guesses the Golden Age of Konami – Round 5 (36:21) Spencer’s Gifts asks: What is the best non-interactive work of video game media? (41:54) Is there a video game you think would have been more successful if it was released later? (47:43) What is the Aqua Teen Hunger Force of video games? (52:16) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (59:18) Check out the forums to Colossus scream about this episode ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Math Blaster! Defender Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back Ultra Vortek Trevor McFur in the Crescent Galaxy Cybermorph Highlander Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time Hover Strike The Simpsons X-Men Elevator Action variants Super Glove Ball Battletoads series SimCity Google is shutting down Stadia Gunsport Wishlist Hyper Gunsport on Steam <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/atari-2600/et-the-ext
Mon, October 17, 2022
Ep. 257 - Building the Sandwich While You're Eating It, with Chris Plante
EIC of Polygon and co-host of The Besties Chris Plante fills in for Frank on topics like the Cyberpunk anime, Anthem, and a Republican poet’s paradise. Questions this week: How can game companies draw attention back to their titles after a botched release? (07:07) How do you make collecting treasure in a game feel significant? (14:14) What would you put in The Orange Box 2? (20:12) How would you quantify an experience point? (26:07) Design a game based on a White House press conference. (32:59) From PAX 2022: An interview with Starbucks Workers United organizer (37:59) MoxBagel re-asks: What’s the ideal video game to play over dinner? (41:11) Has a plot hole in a game’s story ever ruined the game for you? (48:37) What is the Avengers: Endgame of video games? (58:14) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design – Panic! At The Disco songs (01:05:38) Recommendations and Outro (01:18:57) If you look behind this episode’s waterfall you’ll find people discussing it in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Disney’s Darkwing Duck The Besties General Chaos Mortal Kombat GoldenEye 007 Super Smash Brothers series Cyberpunk 2077 Cyberpunk: Edgerunners Starfield Anthem Assassin’s Creed series Silent Hill 2 Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Tomb Raider series Deus Ex series Marvel Avengers <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game-group/ge
Mon, October 10, 2022
Ep. 256 - Top 20 Arcade Edition
The full panel reassembles to create an Insert Credit approved ranked list of twenty arcade games. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman. Nominees in Order of Discussion: Asteroids Deluxe (21:30) The Irritating Stick (26:10) Ivan ‘Ironman’ Stewart’s Super Off Road (30:16) Alien Vs. Predator (34:28) X-Men (40:15) Capcom Vs. SNK 2 Millionaire Fighting 2001 (44:43) The Outfoxies (50:33) NBA Jam: Tournament Edition (01:02:25) Groove Coaster (01:08:24) F-Zero AX (01:15:51) Frogger (01:26:25) Typing of the Dead (01:30:10) Tapper (01:39:32) Azumanga Puzzle Daioh (01:42:23) Prop Cycle (01:47:39) Dog Patch (01:57:29) Darius (02:02:04) Ibara Kuro: Black Label (02:07:28) G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero (02:10:33) Outrun (02:14:31) View the finalized ranked list in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Curiosity 22Cans Elvis (2022) X-Men Final Fight series Rampart Metal Slug series Giovanni’s Pizza Galaga Xevious Ibara Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Derby Stallion series Dog Patch OutRun series Asteroids Deluxe Spacewar! Tempest The Irritating Maze Irritating Stick <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game
Mon, October 03, 2022
Ep. 255 - It's Boss Time Now, with John Learned
Game annotater and journalist John Learned joins the panel to cover dead babies, doing a Batman, and Mr. Bones and me. Questions this week: What’d you think of Return to Monkey Island, Frank ? (04:57) What have been the most significant improvements to the Metroidvania format since Symphony of the Night? (11:30) How many fighters should be in a fighting game? (16:53) What’s the best use of a musical instrument in a non-music based video game? (21:53) What job in the video game industry are you not qualified for, but could do an okay job at anyway? (27:14) Spencer’s Gifts asks: Are lost memories a compelling story device? (35:27) Violence Island Season 2 (41:37) Other than an achievement or trophy, what’s the best way to reward a player for 100% completion in a video game? (58:00) LIGHTNING ROUND: Pull Quotes (01:03:30) Recommendations and Outro (01:08:19) Return to the forums to discuss this episode ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Alexey Pajitnov Street Fighter series Legend of Zelda series Perry Mason Asuka 120% series Radiant Silvergun Perry Farrell Demon’s Souls Dark Souls series Return to Monkey Island Monkey Island series Castlevania / Akumajō Dracula series F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch Chasm Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon Hollow Knight <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/super-metro
Mon, September 26, 2022
Ep. 254 - From Tokyo with Brandon Sheffield, Part II
Brandon continues his time in Japan for the Tokyo Game Show by covering hidden shrines at Sega HQ with Lotte May and Yumiko Miyabe, Rez development with Mark Macdonald, Kaiju bars with Jun Shimizu, Tokyo Game Show games with Andrew Kiya, the Japanese language with Cheryl Ng, and video game purchases with Paul O’Leary McCann. Discuss part II of this episode in the forums! Hosted by Brandon Sheffield , with Lotte May , Yumiko Miyabe , Mark MacDonald , Jun Shimizu , Andrew Kiya , Cheryl Ng, and Paul O’Leary McCann . Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.
Mon, September 19, 2022
Ep. 253 - From Tokyo with Brandon Sheffield, Part I
Full moon, hot cars, cool games, good records. Brandon Sheffield is in Japan for Tokyo Game Show 2022, and has lots to share from the trip, including a Nintendo HQ visit, Maidreamin’, highway driving and street racing spots with Chibi-Tech , and record store finds with Kenan Alpay . Discuss this episode in the forums! Hosted by Brandon Sheffield , with Chibi-Tech and Kenan Alpay . Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, September 12, 2022
Ep. 252 - Quora Spectaskular 2, with Ash Parrish and Chris Kohler
The reunited Ash Parrish and Chris Kohler , both formerly of Kotaku Splitscreen, join Frank Cifaldi and Alex Jaffe in answering the top video game questions on Quora. Questions this week: Is there any reason to choose a female character in video games? (03:18) Why does everyone speak English in the Fallout video game series? (06:04) Playing Skyrim as a vampire, is it worth it? (06:56) Why is Magnus Carlsen hinting at not playing world championships anymore while at the peak of his power? (09:20) What’s the hardest video game ever made? (11:31) How can I permanently end my son’s gaming? (14:45) What are some good free game engines? (21:16) In a 4X game, do you play tall or wide? (22:45) What game has the environment that blew your mind? (24:27) Where do you scale the Game Sonic? (27:58) If you’re making a game and a company wants to buy it from you, how much should you sell it for? (32:41) Will the era of console exclusive games ever end? (38:28) Why is it when I play Minecraft with 1660Ti I barely reach 60fps? (39:28) My son is playing Elden Ring and it’s full of demonic imagery. What should I do? (40:28) What are the least known game genres? (42:34) Are there any games that can actually earn Paypal money?(45:42) LIGHTNING ROUND: Overwatch League Team Slogans (46:37) Recommendations and Outro (50:35) Any questions? Ask them in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Quora’s video game questions Mass Effect series Fallout games NetHack Street Fighter II: The World Warrior New Super Mario Bros. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Final Fantasy XIV Online: A Realm Reborn Mister Mosquito Boktai: The Sun is in Your Hand Bl
Mon, September 05, 2022
Ep. 251 - Bye Forever PAX 2022, with Brandon Sheffield
Brandon Sheffield reports from the Demonschool booth at PAX 2022 , where he shares stories direct from Ian Adams, Frank Howley and our own Frank Cifaldi . Demonschool Booth Worries (00:14) A PAX-ish Anecdote, with Ian Adams (02:12) Day 1 Wrap-Up (03:19) Hotel Experience (05:06) Orange County in Newcastle upon Tyne (06:42) Day 2 and Adventure Game Panel, with Frank Cifaldi (08:53) Seattle Is Just San Francisco 2 (23:38) The Last of Us 2 Whiskey Event, with Frank Howley (26:16) Wrap Up (30:05) Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, with Ian Adams, Frank Howley and Frank Cifaldi . Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, August 29, 2022
Ep. 250 - Getcha Self a Hot Dog, with Liz Ryerson
Insert Credit Fringe Games Correspondent Liz Ryerson returns to the panel to cover being a tool user, the year of peak stupidity in video games, and crystals of fun syrup. Questions this week: If you had a free day at the world’s most complete arcade, how would you spend a thousand quarters? (02:27) Is Gamescom the new E3? (07:59) What is the Snyder Cut of game conferences? (13:19) Recommend a video game soundtrack for Alex Jaffe’s dad’s commute (18:57) Improv Zone: Game Director YouTube Channels (23:49) Mr. Heck asks: what makes successful video games similar, and what makes video game failures unique? (39:24) What’s the stupidest thing you’ve ever seen in a video game? (47:59) How would you put the sound of a black hole into a video game? (52:47) What kind of games and areas of game culture do we not talk about enough on Insert Credit? (56:30) LIGHTNING ROUND: Episode Title Throwbacks (01:01:41) Recommendations and Outro (01:11:06) Two hundred and fifty? That’s a lot of episodes you could discuss in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Yo, Bro California Extreme 2 Spicy Emergency Call Ambulance Prop Cycle Elevator Action Deluxe series Daytona USA Marble Madness Revolution X Metal Slug series Cadash EightyTwo Golden Axe: The Revenge of Death Adder Long Island Retro Gaming Expo Phantasmagoria series Gamescom Kölsch Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021) <
Bonus · Mon, August 22, 2022
Not 250 - Violence Island Exhibition and Waiting for Timbot
Here’s something different! Episode Not 250 brings you a few of the Who Would Win In A Fight matches from forums.insertcredit.com and delivers swift judgment from Alex Jaffe. Stick around for conversation from Alex, Frank, and Brandon on subjects like Judaism in the Bay Area, Batman: The Animated Series, cultural aesthetic adoption over the decades, and more. Support on Patreon Subscribe: RSS , Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and more! Hosted by Alex Jaffe , with Frank Cifaldi , and Brandon Sheffield . Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, August 15, 2022
Ep. 249 - Space Jerks on Monkey Island
Our beloved panel of experts discusses podcasts on Stadia, Chimp Chent, and Breath of the Gliald. Questions this week: From Ash Parrish : If a game development studio was run like a busy kitchen, what would employees shout while running around? (01:18) How do developers make money from subscription services like GamePass? (06:12) Which former game development collaborators would you most like to see team up again? (10:52) What are the false impressions we get about war from war video games? (17:57) What’s the plot of Super Monkey Ball? (22:36) Gaagaagiins asks: Rank the following – dash, roll, slide, glide, hover, fly and jump. (27:22) How do you get past video game burnout? (37:11) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name a new Guilty Gear character (41:25) Recommendations and Outro (44:03) Legally, the government can’t stop you from discussing this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Giant Bomb The Bear Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop Hot Comics for Cool People by Brandon Sheffield and Dami Lee Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series Stadia Sonic Team Balan Wonderworld SNK Corporation Silent Hill 2 Unity Signs New Deal To Help U.S. Army, Government Metal Gear Ac!d NeverDead Thimbleweed Park Monkey Island series Bonk series Final Fantasy series Dragon Warrior / Dragon Quest series Landstal
Mon, August 08, 2022
Ep. 248 - Insert Credit Flavored Questions that are too stupid for the Dirtbag, with Ash Parrish
Insert Credit Hornt Correspondent Ash Parrish rejoins the panel to answer questions members of the Insert Credit forums deemed too stupid even to submit to the dirtbag. Questions this week: BluntForceMama asks: What is your mom’s favorite TV show, and how would you adapt it into a video game your dad would want to play? (02:06) Gaagaagiins asks: Is Capcom just Sega without the Sega-ness? (07:09) beets asks: If you were going to make a table from video game hardware, which would you choose? (10:03) yeso asks: can Yoko Taro see out of that thing? (12:41) King Tub asks: when I’m rewarded with gold for fighting a monster, what’s it doing with that gold? (15:13) Is Superman just seeing everybody’s dicks all the time? (18:03) Gaagaagiins asks: Design a Fromsoft Onimusha game with a Jean Reno-level celebrity appearance and setting (20:44) antillese asks: If muddy brown is the color of Xbox 360 games, what is the video game color of other consoles? (22:12) The Fragrance of Dark Coffee asks: What isn’t the Jingle All The Way of video games? (26:19) dylanfills asks: Is the Phoenix Wright series copaganda? (30:15) Anna asks: If every video game character escaped the virtual world and attacked their creators, which developers could beat their creations? (35:22) TokuCowboy asks: What does the CD mean in Sonic CD? (40:56) HelloMrKearns asks: What is the Mitsuoka Le-Seyde of video games? (41:28) dylanfills asks: is Doomguy a bottom? (47:48) LIGHTNING ROUND: Arcade of Our Own (51:16) Recommendations and Outro (01:03:22) Discuss this episode in the forums or ask questions of your own ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Insert Credit Flavored Questions that are too stupid for the Dirtbag Zoot Suit Riot Devil’s Crush Poirot Murder, She Wrote Endeavour Selling Sunset Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen Sub Hunt <
Tue, August 02, 2022
Ep. 247 - The Criterion Collection of Video Games
The panel convenes to assess the Oofya, share controversial Klonoa opinions, and choose the first five video games to be given the Criterion Collection treatment. Questions this week: What difficulty mode do you start games on? (00:42) How do you remedy the tone of Grand Theft Auto while maintaining crass irreverence? (05:53) How do you create urgency in a video game without an explicit timer? (16:35) What should Roblox replace its iconic “oof” noise with? (20:31) Jaffe Guesses the Golden Age of Konami – Round 4 (28:37) Tom asks: If the Criterion Collection were to release video games, what might the first five titles be, and what would the ideal special features be for each of them? (30:04) LIGHTNING ROUND: The Inaugural Criterion Collection of Video Games (01:01:33) Share your picks for games 6 and onward in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Kingdom Hearts series Final Fantasy VII: Remake God of War series DOOM series Rockstar Games Cleaned Up Its Frat-Boy Culture — and Grand Theft Auto, Too Grand Theft Auto series Red Dead Redemption II The Sopranos The Simpsons Saints Row series Tim Roger’s Friend Jason Schreier Bully Sonic the Hedgehog universe Penguin Game tweet Super Valis IV Bio-Senshi Dan: Increaser to no Tatakai Celeste Castlevania /
Mon, July 25, 2022
Ep. 246 - Those Who Trod Upon Rodents, with Paul Tamayo
Producer, critic and podcaster Paul Tamayo joins the panel to cover when you should pee your pants, Mario’s political affiliations, the coveted 7/11 video games, and Guantanamo Nights Zone. Questions this week: Which real world racing event has the most interesting game mechanics? (06:54) What are the best implementations of alien technology in video games? (14:05) Could you design a game about New York City that doesn’t involve driving? (19:55) What would be the best city to drive around in a video game? (27:48) Spencer asks: Why did so many companies throw their hat in the console ring during the fifth generation? (35:28) Was PaRappa the Rapper good, or do we just remember it because it has a rapping dog? (42:56) What are your video game spending habits like? (48:04) Within the game’s fiction, why do video game villains design their bases as platforming puzzles? (56:01) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As - Grand Theft Auto Online (01:01:01) Recommendations and Outro (01:09:05) Kick! Punch! Discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: The Real World NASCAR Nascar and the Art of Revenge Daytona 500 Baja 1000 Alienware Hylics 2 Needler Outer Wilds Earth Defense Force / Chikyū Bōeigun series Another World Ramble Planet Halo (TV Series) Onechanbara: The Movie (2008) Onechanbara: Bikini Zombie Slayers (2009) Stray Marvel Spider-Man Assa
Mon, July 18, 2022
Ep. 245 - Romancing the Three Kingdoms
Even Hollywood Florida can’t keep Alex Jaffe from asking the panel about Nobunaga’s Position, The Zorro Theorem, and Jonk Bonk. Questions this week: What’s up with that Vice article about Embracer Group making a game archive? (04:47) What are your favorite kinds of puzzles in video games? (12:34) How would you design a new spinoff of Koei’s Romance of the Three Kingdom’s series? (19:28) When does a game need a remake? (23:16) Which four video games would you buy for each of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles? (28:57) Le Fish asks: What would the title, plot, and promotional tagline of a Bonk movie be? (34:43) Is it always more exciting to play offense than defense? (41:02) Do you have any recurring intrusive video game memories? (43:35) What is The Orville of video games? (47:44) LIGHTNING ROUND: Famicom Feud – Spike Video Game Awards Celebrity Hosts (53:05) Recommendations and Outro (01:09:26) Share your recurring intrusive video game memories in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Growing strong and healthy…Minmo! Cool World (1992) Why Is a Game Publisher Trying to Buy Every Video Game Ever Made? ‘Super Mario 64’ sells for over $1.5 million Neutopia II Video Game History Foundation National Videogame Museum Spacewar Computer History Museum 30 Rock Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals Biohazard / Resident Evil series Rise of the Tomb Raider Uncharted series Shadow of the Tomb Raider The Last of Us series <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/
Mon, July 11, 2022
Ep. 244 - Double-Sized Dirtbag Delve, with Andrés Velasco y Coll
EVO Head Tournament Organizer Andrés Velasco y Coll fills in as host for a number of listener submitted questions, covering Italian David Cage, Stardon’t Valley, and how to get a job in the video game industry. Questions this week: Anders asks: How do you get into the video game industry? (07:35) AOL Netscape asks: What series or franchise has a spinoff game arguably better than its predecessor? (23:32) Ross Hamrick asks: How would you remake Jackie Chan Stuntmaster? (29:52) Horizontal Hold asks: Which Nintendo IP would Sega make a good entry of? (37:08) Mox Bagel asks: Which game director would make the best physical version of their game? (44:24) Dilson asks: What are the best crouching animations? (54:40) The Fragrance of Dark Coffee asks: What is the oldest game you’d still recommend today? (59:48) Spencer asks: Which games have the best third act? (01:09:18) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design – Popular Podcasts (01:15:51) Recommendations and Outro (01:22:32) Delve into the forums to discuss this episode ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Crime City Divekick: Addition Edition Super Hexagon VIDEOBALL Metal Gear series Hyper Gunsport now wishlistable on steam Indivisible BioShock series Animal Crossing: New Horizons Necrosoft Games is hiring a producer Evo Combo Breaker CEO Fighting Game Championships Video Game History Foundation Ninja Ninja Gaiden King of Fighters series <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/castlevania-symp
Mon, July 04, 2022
Ep. 243 - Alunderstanding Laryngoscopy, with Doc Burford
Adios Director Doc Burford joins the panel to cover pulse oximeters, what Michael Bay understood about West Side Story, and the RP Walk Button. Questions this week: At what point in playing a game do you feel justified picking up a guide? (06:05) If all video games are fantasy fulfillment, which games serve the most niche interest? (11:18) Design a game for the Nintendo Wii Vitality Sensor accessory. (17:14) Jaffe Guesses the Golden Age of Konami – Round 3 (24:20) Daisopop asks: What’s better? default running with a walk button or default walking with a run button? (25:31) Is Niantic a one-hit wonder? (31:58) Who is the Baz Luhrmann of video games? (37:59) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As: S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl (43:11) Recommendations and Outro (49:36) Toggle your run/walk button and get over to the forums to discuss this episode ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: “Mystery Box” Vintage Video Game Magazines Arc System Works Super Mario series Mega Man / Rockman series Persona series Castlevania: Symphony of the Night TV Sports series Super Mario Bros. / Duck Hunt Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter Citizen Sleeper Runaway 2: The Dream of the Turtle Alundra Euro Truck Simulator series Ice Road Truckers The Simple Life The Good Life PC Building Simul
Mon, June 27, 2022
Ep. 242 - Famous Characters in Funny Situations, with Mathew Kumar
Game design lead for Future Club Mathew Kumar joins the panel to cover piles of graphics cards, Dall E, and customer service at the dream factory. Questions this week: What makes a video game “obscure?” (06:27) Brandon Sheffield re-asks: What is a game you didn’t like until you played it? (14:52) Imagine you’re streaming through a glitch where half your viewers get audio but no visuals, and half get visuals but no audio. What game could you play that both audiences would enjoy the most? (21:00) Design a new mode for Minesweeper (27:59) Dirtbag Seth asks: What responsibilities does a King of Fighters have to their subjects? (34:27) What will AI-generated video games be like? (37:31) Does fast travel mean traversing a game’s world isn’t interesting? (44:39) Which video game feels the most Scottish? (51:48) LIGHTNING ROUND: Famicom Feud - Top 8 Video Game movies on Rotten Tomatoes (56:36) Recommendations and Outro (01:13:47) Check out that AI forum game and lots more in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: NBA 2K series Façade Planetokio Wurm: Journey to the Center of the Earth EarthBound Space Invaders variants Live a Live ObsCure Linda³ Insert Credit Obscure: The Aftermath Crusader of Centy Fortnite Unreal Tournament series Beethoven’s 2nd Contra: Rogue Corps Real Sound: Kaze no Regret <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game-group/s
Mon, June 20, 2022
Ep. 241 - Octoplath Traveler, with Allegra Frank
Deputy editor of The Daily Beast Allegra Frank joins the panel to cover Kirby adults, Pokemon Gonlyfans, and whether or not demons are cool. Questions this week: Does adapting a story focused on choice into another medium cheapen player agency? (04:58) Where does the Kirby franchise go from here? (13:19) What’s happened with Pokemon Go in the last six years since anyone played it? (20:13) Which video game character would you pick to guest host Saturday Night Live? (26:58) Are demons cool? (32:02) Kyle asks: Which famous writer would be best at writing a video game walkthrough? (41:36) Tim asks: who cares? (48:42) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As: Dragon Age Inquisition (49:35) Recommendation & Outro (01:00:44) Pokemon Go to the forums to discuss this episode ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Demonschool by Necrosoft Games, now wishlistable on Steam Dornie Super Mario 64 Jurassic Park: Rampage Edition Castlevania: Symphony of the Night Yoshi Black Mirror: Bandersnatch F For Fake (1973) The Walking Dead BioShock Dragon Age series Mass Effect series Life Is Strange series Halo Kirby games Kirby Air Ride Kirby and the Forgotten Land Curb Your Enthusiasm Pokémon universe <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/pokm
Mon, June 13, 2022
Ep. 240 - Get On The Centaur, with The Night Sky Prince
Final Fantasy and JRPG streamer The Night Sky Prince pals around with the panel for an RPG-focused episode covering wily game mavens, Bush doing 9/11, and the Lynchian madness of Kingdom Hearts. Questions this week: Brandon Sheffield asks: What is the “Play it again, Sam” of video games? (05:46) What would make Final Fantasy XVI not just the best game in the series, but a game that even Frank and Brandon would want to play immediately? (12:44) What are some RPG mechanics from a bygone age you’d like to see make a comeback? (20:54) Rename Creative Business Units 1 through 4 (26:24) MoxBagel asks: If Chunsoft continued to make all eleven main Dragon Quests, how would they be different? (37:21) Is the practice of grinding a fundamental flaw in RPGs, or can it be additive to the experience? (43:38) What are the qualities of a party member you’ll always keep in your party? (50:44) Establish a canon of worthy 2D successors to Final Fantasies IV-VI (56:32) LIGHTNING ROUND: RPGeography (01:03:07) Recommendations & Outro (01:09:29) Use Discussion on the forums ! It’s super effective! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Dragon Ball Z: Super Saiya Densetsu Phantasy Star IV Phantasy Star games Dragon Warrior Advanced Dungeons & Dragons: Treasure of Tarmin Cartridge Pokémon Blue Version Quest 64 Play it again, Sam Casablanca (1942) Pac-Man Death Stranding Pong Super Mario series Final Fantasy XV <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2022/6/3/23153215/final-fantasy-xvi-trailer-lore-square-eni
Mon, June 06, 2022
Ep. 239 - Panzer Dragoose
The panel reveals which console has quietly become the second Dreamcast, their honest feelings on how Sonic Frontiers is looking so far, which game Tim started 24 times before finishing, and much more. HEADS UP! During Question 6, beginning at 45:51, Tim starts telling a story that contains some pretty horrifying dental trauma. If you don’t want to hear bad things happening to teeth, please skip to 49:37. Questions this week: Is a tech demo a video game? (02:36) Are we getting a new Space Harrier? (13:41) What are the best fonts and typefaces in video games? (20:22) Design eight characters for a Street Fighter spinoff where each character is based on a U.S. state (26:31) Mono asks: What’s the saddest sound you’ve ever heard in a video game? (35:06) Do you or does someone you know have video game superstitions? (41:27) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As – The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (52:39) Recommendations and Outro (58:15) Fly away to the forums to discuss this episode ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Mega Man / Rockman series Karl Malone GameFan Die-Hardman Sonic Frontiers gameplay The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Important note: At one point in this episode Tim insists that we recognize that Jerry was dethroned by Carl for just a moment. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Sonic Adventure Super Mario Odyssey Alex Kidd series Halo: Infinite Destiny Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series The Night Sky Prince Elden Ring Yooka-Laylee <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game-group/space-harrier-
Mon, May 30, 2022
Ep. 238 - Jackson Backcracker, Cowboy Chiropractor
Questions this week: Tim Rogers asks: What’s it like going to a chiropractor? (05:08) What’s the Metal Gear Solid 2-style subversion Death Stranding 2 will have? (13:23) What would it take to get you to buy alternate costume DLC? (19:56) What would we do if we bought EA? (25:56) Jaffe Guesses The Golden Age of Konami – Attempt 2 (32:02) Anonymous asks: Design a mascot for the ESRB (32:26) What is the Porco Rosso of video games? (37:37) Violence Island – Shadowban Championship (42:41) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As – Minecraft (01:19:16) Recommendations & Outro (01:27:02) A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: SimCopter Call of Duty series Earthworm Jim Killer Instinct Cyberpunk 2077 Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman A new Death Stranding is happening, Norman Reedus says Death Stranding Metal Gear series Zone of the Enders Death Stranding: The Kotaku Video Review (by Tim Rogers) K2 Stubbs the Zombie in Rebel Without a Pulse Super Mario Odyssey Honda Prelude Ghost of Tsushima Report: EA Looking to Sell or Merge Madden series Burnout series Road Rash series Titanfall series </li
Mon, May 23, 2022
Ep. 237 - Everything Everywah, with Maddy Thorson
Developer of TowerFall and Celeste Maddy Thorson joins the panel to cover the Treasure of Sierra Madrock, Nephew Tokens, and if double jumps are really necessary. Questions this week: Topher Florence asks: Cast a Super Mario Bros. Movie using the actors from the 1999 film The Matrix. There are no other restrictions. (06:51) How can a game’s soundtrack encourage gameplay? (13:45) Why did MicroKingBlizzardActivision show off that diversity chart like they were proud of it? (19:33) How much of Nintendo can the Saudi Prince of Arabia own before it’s no longer ethical to buy Switch games? (27:05) Should video games abolish the double jump? (30:42) Reg asks: What is the best video game manual you have read? (37:50) How do you implement accessibility options in a game where its difficulty is the point? (43:34) Do video game release dates mean anything anymore? (48:25) Will 3D platforming ever be better than 2D platforming? (54:16) LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As – Super Mario Maker 2 (01:00:03) Recommendations & Outro (01:03:39) Dash to the forums to discuss this episode ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Mission in Snowdriftland Titanic (1997) The Flintstones: The Treasure of Sierra Madrock Daffy Duck: The Marvin Missions Bonk’s Revenge Manmaru The Ninja Penguin TowerFall series Celeste Super Mario Maker series Crystal Caves M.C. Kids Super Mario series The Matrix (1999) Keanu Reeves Joe Pantoliano <a href="https://www.imd
Mon, May 16, 2022
Ep. 236 - Yggdraskill Tree, with Topher Florence
Media Crossover Expert Topher “Docfuture” Florence sits with the panel to cover fetchy texture and Bare Nuckle. Ash Parrish shares thoughts on the Halo TV series in “Master Chief Does the Covenant.” Questions this week: Can video games do anything interesting with the multiverse trend? (07:21) What are your predictions for Kingdom Hearts 4? (14:01) Why do games give you equipment and features later that would have made it more fun from the start? (19:30) Design a game based on the winter biathalon of cross country skiing and rifle shooting that doesn’t take place in an athletic competition. (25:34) How would you design a convention experience for Mario Party games? (31:05) Dirtbag Kiko B asks: What’s an example of a fetch quest you sincerely enjoyed? (42:09) What are the greatest challenges in video game animation today? (48:14) What distinctions would you make between the numbers 1 through 4 on a 10-point game rating scale? (53:47) What is the CW’S Riverdale of video games? (01:05:45) LIGHTNING ROUND: Skin It To Win It (01:11:52) Recommendations and Outro (01:18:10) In some timeline, in some universe, you’re already discussing this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Tab McCol Clamato Liquid Death Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series OutRun series Fighters Megamix Project X Zone series Hunter × Hunter Spy × Family John Goodman LEGO Dimensions series Super Smash Brothers series Chrono Cross Kingdom Hearts series
Mon, May 09, 2022
Ep. 235 - Unchardita, with Vincent Diamante
Insert Credit Co-founder and legendary game composer Vincent Diamante joins the panel to cover Fighters Megamix romance, Russian Adventure, and the top 5 Sonic games that aren’t the immediately great ones. Questions this week: Kris Graft asks: Which two fighters from Fighters Megamix would make the best or worst romantic couple? (05:17) Now that we have a little distance, what features of the PS4/Xbox One era will feel retro someday? (09:45) On what occasions have you restarted a game from the beginning before finishing it? (15:02) What is “immersion” in video games? (19:54) Design an “In This House We Do Disney” piece of wall art for gamers (25:16) Dirtbag Salvatore Romano asks: Excluding 1, 2, 3, & Knuckles and Mania, what are the top 5 Sonic the Hedgehog games? (30:36) Which video game series took the greatest number of entries to start getting good? (36:16) What is the best logo design in video games? (41:38) Is Nintendo evil? (46:31) LIGHTNING ROUND: Acronymizer (50:33) Recommendations and Outro (56:30) Immerse yourself in this episode by discussing it in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Bram Stoker’s Dracula Dan Slott’s Spider-Man run Children of Virtue and Vengeance World Trigger SimCity 2000 Fighters Megamix Bean the Dynamite Bark the Polar Bear Daytona USA Virtua Cop Rent A Hero Banjo-Kazooie Kumachan Candy Herbie Jeffry McWild <a href="https://virtuafighter.fandom.com/wik
Mon, May 02, 2022
Ep. 234 - Come Play, My Laggardly Sort, with Kris Graft
The Tarnished Kris Graft takes his spot on the panel to cover bloodwritten OSHA violations, snipers, and syphilitic electrocution revival. Questions this week: Andrés Velasco y Coll asks: When did Konami go bad? (07:39) Kris Graft, what did you do to get fired from Game Developer? (14:28) Which NPCs deserve a promotion to playable characters? (21:13) Do negative status effects make a game more interesting, or just annoying? (27:34) Improv Zone: Elden Ring Political Debate (33:20) Dirtbag Gaagaagiins asks: What are some games that would be improved by the removal of their headline feature? (38:55) Violence Island (47:50) LIGHTNING ROUND: This or That (01:05:22) Recommendations and Outro (01:20:31) Come discuss the episode, my laggardly reader, in the forums! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Target La Nueva Charreada Seinfeld Rasputin Music CRIMESIGHT 428: Shibuya Scramble P.T. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain Guillermo del Toro Crimson Peak Chrysler PT Cruiser Castlevania: Advance Collection Contra: Rogue Corps Minority Report (2002) Brandon Sheffield’s reported net worth Cortana Weapon Shop de Omasse Dragon Warrior / Dragon Quest series Papers, Please <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/ga
Mon, April 25, 2022
Ep. 233 - Pod of Casters, an ICS SNK KOF Roundtable
Cool, cute, and Iori Yagami! Insert Credit Fighting Game Correspondent Patrick Miller hosts Brandon Sheffield , EVO Head Tournament Organizer Andrés “nothingxs” Velasco y Coll and classic Insert Credit writer Azurelore Korrigan to cover the King of Fighters, the fall of SNK, and Insert Credit’s history with both. Questions this week: What brought this panel together? (02:11) What are your fighting game credentials? (10:55) How has SNK’s purchase by a murderous dictator impacted your relationship with the company and King of Fighters series? (18:24) What would an in-person Insert Credit event be like? (28:43) If you disappeared for twenty years, what alias would you return as? (34:49) Why do you play KOF? (41:26) How will Kyo and Iori’s long term relationship unfold? (51:32) Do you think this iteration of SNK is the most successful since the 90’s? (58:39) In a better world, what classic SNK series would you like to come back? (01:07:14) Which game in the series sound design has stuck with you the most? (01:13:03) What is the best outfit in KOF history? (01:20:56) What are your favorite King of Fighters spinoffs and minigames? (01:26:44) Who is the King of Fighters? (01:31:53) LIGHTNING ROUND: Bio Logical (01:37:37) Recommendations and Outro (01:46:56) Ready? Go! to the forums to discuss this episode! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: King of Fighters series Athena Asamiya Kyo Kusanagi Nakoruru Joe Higashi Yashiro Nanakase Angel May Lee Jinju Iori Yagami Clark Still Mai Shiranui King Leona Vanessa <a href="https://www.mmcafe.com/bbs/viewer.html
Mon, April 18, 2022
Ep. 232 - The Insert Credit 232nd Episode Spectacular
After defeat at the hands of scheduling conflicts, Esper steps in to deliver a few of the best Insert Credit Show moments since October 2020. Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, April 11, 2022
Ep. 231 - The Insert Credit Substitute Teacher Study Hall, with Ash Parrish
While Alex Jaffe is under the weather, Tim Rogers is stepping in to perform something vaguely resembling hosting duties. Ash Parrish joins the panel to relay Activision news, Sonic 2 The Movie thoughts, and spreadsheet olympics. Questions this week: Did y’all see the news? (19:17) Let’s talk about video game movies. (27:09) What are some list episodes you guys wanna do? (35:17) What do we have to say about Street Fighter II sound effects? (46:21) Recommendations and Outro (49:27) If you want, you can discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Atari Lynx Atari Jaguar Telegames Super Mario 64 Marvel Guardians of the Galaxy Gran Turismo 7 Scuf Playstation 5 controller Mario 64 beta at Spaceworld Tim’s news site screenshot the stinger ending of Matlock Activision Blizzard’s new full-time jobs come with a bit of union busting Max Payne series Alan Wake Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (2022) In the Name of the King: A Dungeon Siege Tale (2007) Metal Wolf Chaos Metal Gear series Tekken series Recommendations: Brandon: The Earthsea books by Ursula K. Le Guin , specifically The Tombs of Atuan , watch a <a href="http
Mon, April 04, 2022
Ep. 230 - This Podcast Is My Penance
The panel reassembles once more to Game Now!, share the best soundtrack for walking your dog, and groan over a couple real Jaffeisms. Questions this week: Previously on Insert Credit 138: What is the best way to announce a video game release delay? (02:11) Will the new PS Plus program be worthy of investment? (07:16) What are the best player health management systems in video games? (13:28) How important is background art to a video game? (19:43) Custom Soundtrack: Half-Life 2 (26:53) Anonymous asks: when was the last time Konami did anything interesting? (33:51) What are the biggest missed opportunities for lawsuits in video game history? (39:59) What’s something modern video game designers have forgotten how to do? (45:41) Brandon Sheffield asks: What are some good action games that aren’t too hard? (51:31) LIGHTNING ROUND: A Synthesthetic Experiment (01:01:58) Go ahead and bark about this one in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Sea Horse Hide’n Seek Coney Island The Great Gonzo in Word Rider Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild’s sequel is delayed to spring 2023 Skullgirls Phantom Gear Sony revamps PlayStation Plus with new Extra and Premium tiers, merges with PlayStation Now Metal Gear series Halo: The Master Chief Collection Forza Motorsport 7 Gran Turismo 7 Biohazard / Resident Evil series Elden Ring Hollow Knight <a href="https://w
Mon, March 28, 2022
Ep. 229 - Bye Forever GDC 2022, with Liz Ryerson and Brandon Sheffield
Insert Credit covers GDC 2022 with Liz Ryerson reporting direct from the expo hall on a quest to achieve corporate heaven, while Brandon Sheffield gets quick hits from some prominent attendees and reflects on GDC itself. Chapters: Heaven or Corporate Hell: The GDC 2022 Expo Hall, by Liz Ryerson (00:47) GDC 2022 Reports by Brandon Sheffield : standing in front of a mural (14:32) hotel report and lumbar pillow (16:34) fomo (18:47) Why Is the Whole Idea of Todd Howard Funny? An Investigation, by Kris Graft (21:23) hodd toward (23:15) bbc interview about the ukraine bundle (23:49) piloting through shit, with Rami Ismail (24:35) an anecdote about gdcs past, with Vincent Diamante (25:51) unfortunately configured pizza, with Tyriq Plummer (27:47) wearing a fuck nfts shirt in business meetings, with Xalavier Nelson Jr. (29:02) a story about discovering punk bands, with Chris Charla (31:56) flaccid exchanges and ambient jazz (33:07) san francisco and oakland are different places in america (34:57) america is a whole country that has san francisco and oakland in it (36:08) masking (36:48) an event conspiring (37:49) something to say, with Anita Sarkeesian (38:31) something interesting about anthropology, with Trent Kusters (38:53) the best pancakes in los angeles, with Teddy Dief (40:57) what lyft drivers know about stem cells, with Scott Jon Siegel (42:33) Mental Health, by Nick Suttner (43:53) international news (45:51) crashing a crypto party, with Frank Cifaldi and Kelsey Lewin (46:39) a little more to say, with Frank Cifaldi and Kelsey Lewin (52:29) bye forever (55:13) Share GDC memories in the forums ! Hosted by Alex Jaffe , Liz Ryerson and <a href="https://twitter.com/necroso
Mon, March 21, 2022
Ep. 228 - Should I Drink This?
The heroes known as Insert Credit return to do battle with Two Point Eight-A video games, Vectourmaun, and giving yousa unna bongo. Questions this week: If you could play a video game with any three people, living or dead, who would they be, and what would the game be? (01:47) What is the best way for video games to represent aging? (05:28) What’s the stupidest argument you’ve ever been part of over a video game? (11:37) How much does it cost to make a video game? (14:39) The Adaptation Game: Adapt the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) handbook into a video game. (21:26) Dirtbag Anonymous asks: I recently had a job interview where I was asked ‘If your personality was a video game, what game would it be and why?’ How the hell was I supposed to answer this? (28:27) How effective can an adaptation of a video game be if considering only the lore of a series and not the gameplay? (35:17) How can you tell a game was made in Europe? (41:03) What is the seizing in your leg after you wake up that indicates you’re about to experience a horribly painful leg cramp over the next 30 seconds of video games? (46:20) LIGHTNING ROUND: The Time is Right (53:08) Recommendations and Outro (01:01:41) Should you discuss this episode in the forums ? I mean I think it would be pretty cool personally, yeah A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Left 4 Dead Final Fantasy XIV Online: A Realm Reborn Joe Montana II: Sports Talk Football Joe Montana Pat Summerall Joe Montana twitter clip Rock Band Joan Chen Rutger Hauer Christopher Lambert VIDEOBALL Lewis Hamilton Sifu Wizardry games <a href="https://twitter.com/neiltyson/status/1504476400002248704?s=20&t=2LRj9iphFURM1bMYEAqHng"
Mon, March 14, 2022
Ep. 227 - Door Bustin' Gun Totin' Flea Men
In an eternal battle against time constraints, the panel speedruns tricky topics like shader bananas, unusually serious discussion of bullying, and Badstlevanias. Questions this week: Is there anything we want to talk about from the recent Sony State of Play event? (02:13) How do you use video games to raise $3.5 million for Ukraine in three days? (08:37) When do you feel like a game was made specifically for you? (13:53) How can we stop Quantic Dream’s Star Wars game from being finished? (18:52) Violence Island (26:12) Outro (38:34) Quick! If you don’t discuss this episode in the forums it might get away! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Gran Turismo Sony State of Play Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Dino Crisis Exoprimal The Diofield Chronicle Growlanser Ogre Battle series Fire Emblem series Octopath Traveler TMNT: The Cowabunga Collection Valkyrie Elysium Bundle for Ukraine Blind Play Game Recommendations from the Ukraine Bundle - insert credit forums A Short Hike Celeste Baba Is You Kingdom: Two Crowns Backbone Cloud Gardens CrossCode Wandersong <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/paradi
Mon, March 07, 2022
Ep. 226 - That's-a So Nice!
The panel returns complete to confront dudekillers, money laundering, and quick-a time events. Questions this week: On what occasion do you lie in video games? (03:40) What is your most treasured video game possession? (08:23) Which video game talent would you most like to have? (13:11) What is your favorite video game occupation? (18:27) Which video game words or phrases do you most overuse? (22:20) Where in a video game would you most like to live? (28:54) Who are your favorite video game writers? (32:54) What is it that you most dislike in video games? (36:52) What is your greatest regret in video games? (41:10) What do you consider the greatest achievement in video games? (45:41) LIGHTNING ROUND: Dirtbag Lightning Round (49:42) Recommendations and Outro (56:07) Discuss-a this episode in-a the forums! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Cathedral of St. John the Divine Among Us SpyParty Call of Duty 2 VIDEOBALL Ogre Battle Dragon Quest III Elden Ring Jetpack Joyride Two-Face Sonic CD James Ellroy L.A. Noire Where in North Dakota is Carmen Sandiego? Why in North Dakota is Carmen Sandiego? Landstalker Shining in the Darkness Scanners (1981) Cindy Aurum Final Fantasy XV Destiny <a href="https:
Sun, February 27, 2022
Ep. 225 - Even More Games of the Year 2021
It’s not over yet! Listen to Tim and Brandon mention honorables from last year that didn’t make it on the Insert Credit Top 21 of 2021 list. Plus the essay “isle o tims” by Brandon Sheffield, exploring Balan Wonderworld as a capitalism allegory. Games Discussed: Halo Infinite (01:47) R-Type Final 2 (02:57) Voice of the Cards (03:45) The Good Life (04:05) Inscryption (04:59) Metroid Dread (05:30) Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (06:31) Far Cry 6 (07:26) Guilty Gear: Strive (09:29) Back 4 Blood (10:14) Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury (11:19) El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron (12:24) Forza Horizon 5 (12:55) Solar Ash (17:02) Age of Empires IV (18:50) No More Heroes 3 (19:19) Umurangi Generation: Special Edition (20:01) Pokemon Brilliant Diamond (20:51) Final Fantasy VII: Remake – Intergrade (22:29) Castlevania: Advance Collection (22:58) Overboard (23:26) The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles (24:23) Deathloop (26:33) Unpacking (26:59) Evil Tonight (28:35) Eastward (29:57) Paradise Killer (31:28) “isle o tims” by Brandon Sheffield (36:04) Hello it’s me, brandon sheffield. Two weeks ago, during our best games of 2021 podcast, I made an offhand remark about Balan Wonderworld, a game in which you have an economy based on small creatures called tims, which you literally throw onto the gears of capitalism. I figured I’d expand on what I meant by that. Tims are little creatures that hatch from eggs, and live on the isle o’ tims, which is your hub world. They have distinguishing markings like stripes or different cute ears and stuff like that, but functionally they all want to do the same two things: eat, and procreate. The other thing they can be compelled to do is work, which is what they spend most of their time doing. At the start of the game, the only real structure in the island is a Conan the Barbarian-like turnstyle that has the appearance of a gear. next to that is a long black signboard that flips and makes a big clacking sound as numbers go up. To make that number go up faster, you can pick up your tims and toss them into this turnstyle, which eventually makes them push it. So that’s what I meant by throwing them onto the gears of capitalism. As your number goes up – and by the way it’s not clear what this number represents, but let’s say it’s money – more structures unlock. The sole function of most of these structures is to enable more tims to do more work. There are little elevators that take them up into simple rube goldberg machines, which drop them through a series of gates and slides, before depositing them back on the ground to start the process over again. Some tims are never released into the world, they simply exist underground, turning a giant wheel. The floor is transparent so that you can watch them wor
Mon, February 21, 2022
Ep. 224 - Video Game History Pope
In which our heroes (and you!) are absolved of the sin of piracy by the highest authority in game history, and Ice the Goose reveals arcane knowledge of anthropology. Questions this week: What the hell is wrong with Nintendo? (02:32) What games with a setting contemporary to release have best aged into being period pieces? (13:32) What’s your favorite kind of environment in video games? (18:36) Other than canceled, what do you predict Netflix’s Bioshock movie will be like? (24:19) Jerry BreadyToDie asks: When is autosaving better than manually saving, and vice versa? (33:12) How do you balance player progression with game difficulty? (38:37) Review Super Mario Bros. 2 in six minutes. (44:07) Write the first sentence and the last sentence of a text book about video games. (53:31) Recommendations and Outro (55:45) If you discuss this episode in the forums , who knows what could happen! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult (1994) Nintendo shutting down Wii U, Nintendo 3DS eShops and frustrating fans Video Game History Foundation’s tweet on the subject Yakuza / Ryū ga Gotoku series EarthBound Red Dead Redemption II Batman: The Video Game Yo, Bro MTV’s Beavis and Butt-Head Lester the Unlikely Greendog: The Beached Surfer Dude! California Games NBA Jam Third World War (aka Cold War) Golgo 13: Top Secret Episode Third World War Japanese box art <l
Mon, February 14, 2022
Ep. 223 - Game of the Year 2021
In which our heroes recount a few of the best video games released in 2021, the most interesting video games released in 2021, and the video games they actually played in 2021. Nominees in Order of Discussion (Unranked) Moon: Remix RPG Adventure Dungeon Encounters Balan Wonderworld Marvel Guardians of the Galaxy Hitman III Ghosts ’n Goblins: Resurrection F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch Lost Judgment Cruis’n Blast Psychonauts 2 Chicory: A Colorful Tale Shin Megami Tensei V Final Fantasy Pixel Remasters Scarlet Nexus Loop Hero Mass Effect: Legendary Edition Final Fantasy XIV Online: Endwalker Call of Duty: Vanguard NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139… Fuga: Melodies of Steel Dodgeball Academia Discuss this episode in the forums before you spoil yourself with the final list below! THE INSERT CREDIT TOP 21 OF 2021: F.I.S.T.: Forged in Shadow Torch Shin Megami Tensei V Dungeon Encounters Balan Wonderworld Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Final Fantasy XIV: Endwalker Hitman 3 Psychonauts 2 Lost Judgment Chicory: A Colorful Tale Nier Replicant ver.1.22474487139… Fuga: Melodies of Steel Loop Hero
Sun, February 06, 2022
Ep. 222 - Quakearoni, with Kelsey Lewin
Video Game History Foundation Co-Director Kelsey Lewin joins Brandon, Tim and Alex in exploring duality, Caroque, and Spider-Man Root Canaling Pregnant Elsa. Questions this week: Which video game series really got it right on the second try? (02:38) What was the state of video games during the second console generation? (08:05) What are the keys to a great co-op video game experience? (13:27) What would be the easiest game to adapt into a movie on a limited budget? (20:30) Design a fourth Frogger 2. (23:36) Dirtbag Evoline Theory: What is the impact of the Five Nights At Freddy’s franchise on the games industry? (30:48) Violence Island (36:26) LIGHTNING ROUND: Intellivision or ColecoVision? (46:47) Recommendations and Outro (53:45) Everyone else is discussing this episode in the forums , why aren’t you? A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Go Go Ackman 2 Halo 2 Street Fighter II: The World Warrior Half-Life 2 Persona 2: Eternal Punishment Persona R-Type Final 2 Super Mario Bros. 2 Turok 2: Seeds of Evil Final Fantasy II Dragon Warrior II Final Fantasy XIV Online: A Realm Reborn Final Fantasy VII: Remake Ganbare Goemon 2 Street Fighter Alpha 2 Super Mario Galaxy 2 Fairchild Channel F Atari 2600 <
Sun, January 30, 2022
Ep. 221 - Popey Fox
Our heroes reunite to tackle the return of Reagen Sheffield, the Turkish Star Wars of Yuzo Koshiro, and Paul Blart Mall Battletoad. They also discuss the Microsoft-Activision-Blizzard-King merger, Tifa in the Italian senate, and the metaverse. Questions this week: In the wake of the MicroBlizzion buyout, how screwed are video games? (03:20) What would be a less useless metric for determining game story quality than number of words in script? (14:46) What video game music would you play for the Pope? (20:31) What would be the worst video game clip to interrupt a national senate meeting with? (26:10) Dirtbag Spencer asks: What is the shallowest, nitpickiest reason you dislike a video game? (30:29) Does “the metaverse” actually have anything to do with video games? (37:45) In a video game, how high should you be able to jump? (44:03) What are the best uses of the PocketStation and VMU? (51:08) What is the mumblecore of video games? (58:16) LIGHTNING ROUND: Bad Bad Game Reviews (01:02:22) Recommendations and Outro: (01:24:13) No pressure, but if you wanted you could discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Katamari Damacy Killer7 Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Sonic Jam Mega Man / Rockman series Silent Hill series Microsoft to acquire Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion Call of Duty series Candy Crush Saga Stretch Armstrong Extremely good Tifa and Barrett crossplay Call of Duty: Vanguard Call of Duty: Black Ops - Cold War World of WarCraft Overwatch<
Mon, January 24, 2022
Ep. 220 - Advergame Designathon, with Liz Ryerson
Insert Credit Sells Out! Liz Ryerson returns with a vengeance to help design sixteen games for brands that owe us money now. Advergame Designathon: Design a side-scrolling shooter for the WWE. (04:04) Design a top-down puzzle game for Six Flags. (06:28) Design a tower defense game for the Portugal Board of Tourism. (08:29) Design a platforming game for Ariana Grande. (11:00) Design an 8-bit roleplaying game for Monday Night Football. (14:21) Design a dating sim for Now That’s What I Call Music! (17:18) Design an FMV game for the U.K. National Lottery. (20:14) Design a VR racing game for the Rocky franchise. (22:41) Design a bullet hell for the Tasmanian Devil. (24:41) Design a party game for Wal-Mart. (26:33) Design a gacha game for Good Morning America (28:34) Design a fighting game for BBC Arts & Culture. (33:51) Design an isometric adventure game for Rolex. (38:37) Design an open world game for Doctors Without Borders (42:46) Design a first person shooter for Deer Park Spring Water (45:55) Design a Myst clone for the Catholic Church (48:03) Recommendations and Outro (49:50) Tell everyone your substantially better idea in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Tetris Logopedia MobyGames WWE Chō Aniki Roman Reigns The Undertaker Hulk Hogan Becky Lynch Asuka Sasha Banks Asuka 120% Final: BURNING Fest Six Flags Soko-Ban Wetrix 3-D Tetris RollerCoaster Tycoon Lemmings <li
Mon, January 17, 2022
Ep. 219 - The Insert Credit Consolebration
You’ve waited long enough, now Insert Credit ranks the greatest video game consoles of all time, and a few others for good measure. Choices: -Round 1, Frank (05:25) -Round 1, Tim (09:25) -Round 1, Brandon (15:35) -Round 2, Frank (19:36) -Round 2, Tim (24:49) -Round 2, Brandon (30:15) -Round 3, Frank (35:46) -Round 3, Tim (41:40) -Round 3, Brandon (50:30) -Round 4, Frank (56:51) -Round 4, Tim (01:04:52) -Round 4, Brandon (01:10:57) -Round 5, Frank (01:19:10) -Round 5, Tim (01:24:25) -Round 5, Brandon (01:31:25) -Round 6, Frank (01:38:07) -Round 6, Brandon (01:44:23) -Round 6, Tim (01:52:14) -Round 7, Frank (02:00:05) -Round 7, Tim (02:07:00) -Round 7, Brandon (02:14:28) Recommendations and Outro (02:25:09) Discuss the results in the forums! THE INSERT CREDIT RANKED TOP 20 CONSOLES: 1. PlayStation 2. PS2 3. SNES 4. Genesis 5. Xbox 360 6. Nintendo DS 7. PC Engine 8. NES 9. Dreamcast 10. Saturn 11. Windows PC 12. PSP 13. Game Boy Advance 14. Game Boy 15. Wii 16. WonderSwan 17. Switch 18. ZX Spectrum 19. Neo Geo Pocket Color 20. Jaguar 21. Atari 2600 A LARGE SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Playstation Super Nintendo Entertainment System FM Towns Marty WonderSwan TurboGrafx-16 Microsoft Windows Quake Unreal Tournament Super Mario 64 The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild ZX Spectrum G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero Code Name: Viper <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/gam
Mon, January 10, 2022
Ep. 218 - Donkey Milk, with Kris Graft
GameDeveloper.com publisher Kris Graft joins the panel to cover E3, Square Enix NFTs, what rock and roll really is, and smoking weed at the Sega E3 booth. Questions this week: How does Jaffe beat his friend in a Metacritic rating betting pool? (04:17) What video game character would you invite to a potluck, and what would they bring? (12:04) What the hell is Square Enix’s problem? (19:10) Design an emote for an online game. (25:58) What would a Rockstar Games version of an Orlando theme park be like? (33:28) Tim Rogers asks: You guys wanna talk about E3? (40:46) Dirtbag Mike Larkey asks: Design a recently public domain Winnie-the-Pooh game (47:57) Violence Island (53:52) What is rock and roll? (01:05:06) Recommendations and Outro (01:12:44) Maybe everyone who discusses this episode in the forums will talk about donkey milk less! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Metacritic Sifu Horizon: Zero Dawn Days Gone Cooking Mama Crash Bandicoot Bubsy Little Mac Master Chief Marcus Michael Fenix Bayonetta Shin Megami Tensei V The Ninja Warriors Square Enix’s New Years letter talking about NFTs and other trash Cryptoland Fortnite Destiny The Macarena Gangnam Style </
Mon, January 03, 2022
Ep. 217 - Asynchronicity
In which our heroes, scattered across time and space, convene by way of editing to cover The Freak Sword, looking to the One Mode Future, and sexy slutty bunny boys. Questions this week: What is the ugliest video game ever made? (02:05) Have you formed any habits in video games that have translated into your normal life? (07:50) Should every game have an easy mode? Should every game have a hard mode? (12:20) Imagine that you had the power to create video game mods just by speaking them into existence. What would you make? (18:20) IMPROV ZONE: Game Counselor help line (22:23) What does it take to convince someone to try a video game? (31:42) Design a track in the same a video spirit as any video game character for Mario Kart. (38:26) How have focus groups affected game development? (43:18) What is the worst game that you would still consider the game of the year for its year, considering its competition? (47:55) Knowing that they will probably never listen to this episode, what are your feelings about the other two panelists? (53:09) Recommendations and Outro (57:28) Now that you have all the pieces, you can discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Garfield and his Nine Lives ( Game Boy Advance ) Ice Cream Cone Pokemon Swedish Erotica: Custer’s Revenge Hatred Goemon’s Great Adventure Valis series Valis X series Coke Zero formula change Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3 Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 4 Final Fantasy VII Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon Annapurina Interactive Florenc
Mon, December 27, 2021
Ep. 216 - The Dirtbag of Podcasts Part II: Double Dip
Alex Jaffe, Tim Rogers and Brandon Sheffield continue the celebration of Patron-submitted questions, upending the dirtbag for even more “What is the ____ of video games?” Questions this week: Dirtbag Sailor Silica asks: What is the squeezing through a gap while the next area loads for previous eras of video games? (03:02) Dirtbag Dilson asks: What is the video game equivalent of a sommelier? (04:27) Dirtbag Walt asks: What is the The Adventures of Buckaroo Bonzai Across the 8th Dimension of video games? (05:08) Dirtbag MoxBagel asks: What is the This restaurant packaged the salt and pepper packets in a bag with the napkins and now the napkin is all peppery and unpleasant to use of video games? (08:35) Dirtbag Kory asks: What is the OK Computer of video games, and what is the Kid A of video games? (12:13) A Dirtbag We Don’t Have the Name Of asks: What are the farm-to-table restaurant and microwave dinner of video games? (14:39) Dirtbag UG asks: What is the Joe Pera Talks with You of video games? (19:15) Dirtbag Roman asks: What is the 1989 Velvet Revolution of video games? (22:02) Dirtbag Chopemon asks: What is the Chinese food buffet of video games? (24:07) Dirtbag Dusty asks: What is the DMC DeLorean of video games? (26:29) Dirtbag TapeVulture asks: What is the British accent of video games? (29:39) Dirtbag Chopemon asks: What is the hanging up of holiday decorations of video games? (34:43) Dirtbag Marshall asks: What is Ross Dress for Less of video games, and what is the TJ Maxx of video games? (34:43) Dirtbag A Dry Cleaner for Dogs asks: What is the hoop trundling of video games? (40:42) A Dirtbag We Don’t Have the Name Of asks: What is the James Joyce’s Ulysses of video games, and what is the Alfred Lord Tennyson’s Ulysses of video games? (42:55) LIGHTNING ROUND: The Gaagaagiins Six (46:00) Recommendations and Outro (54:05) Discuss this episode in the forums , please! You’ll be glad you did! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Bedouin Sheep dog Yorkshire Terrier Chihuahua Beverly Hills Chihuahua (2008) Galaxian Ridge Racer Mass Effect Sommelier DS <a hr
Mon, December 20, 2021
Ep. 215 - The Dirtbag of Podcasts
In which our heroes dive deep into the Dirtbag, receptacle of all Patron-submitted questions, on the hunt for “What is the ____ of video games?” format in particular. Questions this week: Dirtbag Benjamin asks: What is your fine barrel-aged Kentucky bourbon of video games, your Mad Dog 20/20 of video games, and your oversized lollipop of video games? (03:23) Dirtbag Eric Eaton asks: What is the Bob Dylan of video games? (05:54) Dirtbag Timothy asks: What is the F For Fake of video games? (07:54) Dirtbag Anonymous asks: What is the Anna Karenina of video games? (09:47) Dirtbag Kiko B asks: What is the Sonic the Hedgehog the Movie of video games? (11:58) Dirtbag John H asks: What is the Shake Shack of video games? (12:26) Dirtbag Per Hasselstrom asks: What is the Satantango of video games? (16:38) Dirtbag Crumbling Zero asks: (19:01) Dirtbag Devils Blush asks: Who is the Carlo Rambaldi of video games? (21:35) Dirtbag Andy Douseman asks: What is the using a shaving brush and shaving soap instead of a electric razor or disposable razor with canned shaving cream of video games? (22:45) Dirtbag UG asks: What is the Neapolitan ice cream of video games? (26:41) Dirtbag Rainbow Battlekid asks: Who or what is the Michael Jordan of Baseball of video games? (27:20) Dirtbag Paul asks: What is the “Weird Al” Yankovic of video games? (29:41) Patrons get to submit questions, but everybody gets to discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Halo 2 Feel the Magic XY/XX Final Fantasy VII Super Mario 64 Chrono Trigger Panzer Dragoon Saga Mad Dog 20/20 Under Defeat R-Type Final PUBG Mobile Super Mario Run Castlevania: Symphony of the Night Castlevania II: Belmont’s
Mon, December 13, 2021
Ep. 214 - The Ocarina of Time of Anything
Questions this week: Brandon Sheffield asks: What was the first time a parent of your praised a video game unprompted? (02:01) Has Dark Souls replaced Ocarina of Time as The Greatest Game of All Time? (07:59) If you could clone one person 100 times to make an entire game development team, who would it be? (15:03) In light of his passing, what can you tell us about NES and SNES lead architect Masayuki Uemura? (20:45) Is Halo cool? (26:06) Dirtbag Nick asks: What are the best times a game has broken its own rules? (31:55) You wanna talk about the Game Awards? (37:53) Are there really any video games that you couldn’t make today? (45:18) Previously on Insert Credit: What is the real life equivalent of playing a Far Cry game? (50:21) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design – JAV Titles (56:22) Recommendations and Outro (01:02:54) Your post could be the Dark Souls of discussing this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Yars’ Revenge Vic Viper Blaster Master Journey to Silius Fester’s Quest Batman: The Video Game The Addams Family Bullet Witch Myst ( Jaguar ) Power Drive Rally Castle Wolfenstein DOOM ACTION BUTTON REVIEWS DOOM Assassin’s Creed III Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla Assassins Creed III commercial Super Mario Bros. 3 <a href="https://www.
Mon, December 06, 2021
Ep. 213 - The Gumption of My Own Horse
In which our heroes consider for whom the Hey Guys tolls, deliberate Superman questions, and witness the birth of Peggle exercise. Questions this week: Frank Cifaldi asks: Do you remember seeing Super Mario 64 for the first time? (06:35) Which are better, ranged or melee weapons? (13:05) What are some video game resources more people should know about? (18:13) What’s the stupidest way you’ve ever died in a video game? (26:09) What’s the difference between a Bizarro and a Wario? (31:12) Dirtbag Gachaman asks: What is the best single button press in video games? (38:28) Review Sonic the Hedgehog 2 in six minutes. (45:50) Violence Island (51:47) What’s the Coronavirus booster shot of video games? (01:04:49) LIGHTNING ROUND: Trophy Life (1:10:32) Recommendations and Outro (01:19:16) Did you see what those guys said about Sonic 2? Talk about it with people in the forum ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Tim’s Minnesota mansion Super Mario 64 NiGHTS into Dreams… Super Mario Odyssey Power Blade Chrontendo ep. 59 Cross Wiber: Cyber-Combat-Police Castlevania: The Adventure - ReBirth Metal Slug Super Mario 3D World Dynasty Warriors God Hand Fortnite GameFly Replay Burners 1984 [60fps] Wai Wai Jockey Gate-In! Loop1 on Replay Burners GDC’s youtube channel GDC Vault <a href="https://www.mo
Mon, November 29, 2021
Ep. 212 - This Game Is Legal Grounds for Divorce
The panel covers the only Funko Pop Tim Rogers owns, the worst gravy text in the history of video games, and Brandon Sheffield saying “poggers.” Questions this week: Tim Rogers asks: Did you all see there’s Funko Pop NFTs? (03:38) What’s the best online multiplayer experience you’ve had in a video game? (11:35) Design some demons for the next Shin Megami Tensei, and detail the negotiation options (16:27) Let’s talk about flavor text in games (21:25) Improv Zone: Fortnite Streaming (28:02) An anonymous dirtbag asks: Can a relationship in a video game constitute emotional infidelity? (32:47) What is the right amount of enemies to put in a level? (40:02) Make a workout mixtape entirely from video game music (44:51) What is the live action Cowboy Bebop of video games? (50:11) LIGHTNING ROUND: The Gamer’s Journey (55:35) Recommendations and Outro (01:04:26) It’s never too late to discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Funko NFTs Dynasty Warriors That Dragon Quest one Tom Morello’s NFTs based on his D&D character apparently Bomberman Wars Tengai Makyō II: Manjimaru Tengai Makyō Ziria: Haruka Naru Jipang ( Xbox 360 ) SDCC 2014 Exclusive Sharknado Funko Pop Metal Gear Solid Man Solid Snake Gaiares Demons of Asteborg Castlemania Left 4 Dead Mario Kart DS Halo 3 Gears of War <a href
Mon, November 22, 2021
Ep. 211 - George R. R. Binks the Time Sweeper
The panel covers Youngen Ring, the popular opinion of Souls games, and whether we can get Phil Spencer on the show. Questions this week: Jenna Stoeber asks: What’s the worst (or most out of place) sound effect in video games? (03:44) On its 20th birthday, what are our memories of the original Xbox? (08:46) Aren’t the Grand Theft Auto Trilogy Remasters Rockstar’s greatest heist of all? (14:04) Are there some things in video games it took you a while to understand, but you finally get now? (18:29) What will be the Game of Thrones reference in Elden Ring? (21:54) Dirtbag Kiko asks: What are the best and worst moments of horse death in video games? (27:50) How do video games use spite as a motivator? (33:38) Is Bobby Kotick a singular evil dunce, or are all C-level executives this slimy? (38:25) What are the Neuromancer and Snow Crash of video games? (43:26) Recommendations and Outro (47:31) Now’s your chance to discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Warner Bros. SmashWarners Uwe Boll’s In The Name of the King A Dungeon Siege Tale 2: Two Worlds starring Dolph Lundgren Pinhead Mr. Boombastic Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Castlevania: Symphony of the Night Animal Crossing: New Horizons Quake II Uncharted series Shining Force III Super Mario Galaxy NieR Crazy Taxi 3: High Roller Gunvalkyrie Stubbs the Zombie in Rebel Without a Pulse Malice <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/grand-theft-auto-the-tril
Mon, November 15, 2021
Ep. 210 - Mario's Big Spaghetti Time, with Jenna Stoeber
Writer and Video Producer for Polygon Jenna Stoeber joins the panel to litigate whether P.T. is a complete game, milking for sport, and Zapdouglas. Questions this week: K Thor Jensen asks: does your inventory management system reflect your real-world inventory management style? (04:56) What is the most incorrect prediction about video games you’ve ever heard or made? (10:25) What video game series should be adapted to young adult novels? (15:35) Which dormant video game series with three or more entries ended on the highest note? (19:41) What twitter account would you start to influence a trend in video game development, a la Can You Pet The Dog? (24:32) Dirtbag MVB asks: What are some good games made from reused assets? (30:09) What’s some of the juiciest drama you’ve seen in a video game community or message board? (35:16) What songs not written for video games do you associate with video games? (39:55) How do you make failure in video games fun? (45:28) What is the Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho of video games? (50:34) LIGHTNING ROUND: Pokedexperts (54:03) Recommendations and Outro (59:05) I don’t see why you wouldn’t discuss this episode in the forums , you know? A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Metal Gear Solid 2 Dead and Buried (1981) Evil Dead II (1987) Cat People (1982) Animorphs TV series Unpacking Resident Evil 4 Solatorobo Fallout 3 How accurate were 2009’s video game predictions? Curiosity: What’s Inside The Cube? Project Milo Insert Credit’s Own Mathew Kumar (sorry folks, Mobygames went down right at this point in the edit!! the following links will use wikipedia or something else. -Esper) <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stardew_V
Mon, November 08, 2021
Ep. 209 - Blopper Goes Knobby, with K Thor Jensen
Artist, writer, cartoonist and game designer K Thor Jensen joins the panel to cover being Mr. Google-Ass, having to go fast and slightly worse, and episode titles. Questions this week: Frank Cifaldi asks: Is the Intellivision Amico “physical game” scam the future of physical games? (06:12) How can video games adapt the comic book format better than Comix Zone? (13:08) What has been the worst video game music of the last generation? (18:21) How would you design a Dune game like never before? (23:43) Design a video game t-shirt that, even given prominent advertising, exactly zero people would buy. (29:27) Dirtbag Spencer asks: Does Nintendo actually have something that makes them the best game developer, or is that just fans projecting? (36:07) What are the best video game lists you’ve seen? (42:12) Violence Island (47:03) What is the The Simpsons of video games? (56:19) LIGHTNING ROUND: Game Name Combo Breaking (01:01:41) Recommendations and Outro (01:14:41) You’re the best there is at what you do, but what you do is discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Hexic Sine Mora Intelivision Amico Worms: Armageddon Comix Zone Understanding Comics Framed Gorogoa Future Aero Racing S Ultra Mad Max Dune Maneater That Box That Hurts Your Hand When You Put It In There Cooking Mama El Shaddai Death Stranding Microsof
Mon, November 01, 2021
Ep. 208 - How To Correctly Pronounce Ocarina, with Jackie Cole
Community Manager for Singularity 6 Jackie Cole joins the panel to cover the dark truth behind convention booths, not letting the gacha getcha, and Call of Looney. Questions this week: Can games be used as tools for mental health? (03:00) Why does every MMO feel so bad to play, and can that be fixed? (07:04) Are emulation hobbyists saving or destroying video games? (11:26) Who are the nicest, most well-adjusted people in video games? (15:53) What do most people not know about running a convention booth? (20:06) Dirtbag Spencer asks: How can we make gamers care less about brands and more about the people who make video games? (23:57) Has a video game ever satisfactorily addressed a complaint you had with it while you were playing it? (29:08) Where would be the point in a documentary series about game companies where a still flips to a photo negative and the voiceover goes “And that’s where it all went wrong?” (33:15) Is there any way for Call of Duty to redeem itself ethically? (37:29) LIGHTNING ROUND: Celebrity Gamer Tags (41:57) Recommendations and Outro (49:18) Quickly, discuss this episode in the forums , before they get you! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Zero Wing Puss N Boots: Pero’s Great Adventure Swery’s The Good Life Monster Hunter: World Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice Stardew Valley Depression Quest Sky: Children of the Light Journey Brain Age: Train Your Brain In Minutes A Day! The Insert Credit Dot Com Forums Metroid Dread Is Already Running On Switch Emulators Players Have A Ton Of Complaints About Nintendo Switch Online’s N64 Games <a href="https://e
Mon, October 25, 2021
Ep. 207 - Specdracular 2021, with Ian Ferguson
Video game documentarian and podcaster Ian Ferguson joins the panel to assist in the slaying of that vile creature that haunts this very night, Gamer Dracula. Original music by Kurt Feldman. Mashtlevania by Max Hully. Castle Gamer Dracula: What’s the best way to orient a video game player in a space and provide direction? (02:46) What’s the worst NPC in a video game? (07:49) How do you create good interior design for locations in video games? (13:10) What are the worst attempted comebacks in video games? (18:29) Improv Zone: Monster Mash (23:50) Dirtbag Triple Dive - Dusty: DeLorean of Video Games? Spencer: Do you watch the credits? MoxBagel: Shareware boom today? (28:38) Which two unrelated video games would you Frankenstein together? (34:25) How do video games evoke horror in a way other media cannot? (39:24) What competitive game could you beat Death at? (44:32) What are the greatest boss battles in video games? (48:00) FRIGHTENING ROUND: 13 Spooky Game Names (53:26) Recommendations and Outro (57:35) If you don’t discuss this episode in the forums , it’ll haunt you for all your days! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Hirokazu Yasuhara Ninja Gaiden Black Kim Swift Quantum Conundrum Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Conviction Killer7 D Beedle Exile Disaster Report 4: Summer Memories NieR Yakuza 3 Highlander: The Last of the MacLeods Grandia Demolition Man Whiplash Shaq Fu: A Legend Reborn <a href="https://www
Mon, October 18, 2021
Ep. 206 - Bmups, with Christine Love
Developer of Get in the Car, Loser! Christine Love joins the panel to cover Alf, tactical romance action, and the crushing economic realities of indie games. Questions this week: How has video game art and design been impacted by Christian iconography? (03:40) What are the worst ports of the best games? (09:00) Has the Metroidvania outgrown Metroid? (13:01) What is the weirdest advice you’ve gotten for playing a video game? (17:22) What is and is not a visual novel? (21:11) Dirtbag Spencer asks: What Mortal Kombat character should get the next Mythologies game? (27:13) Are video games capable of evoking Britcom-style secondhand embarrassment? (32:37) Should games with a customizable protagonist and multiple love interests assume bisexuality? (36:59) From Brandon Sheffield : Christine, how can you justify giving away your game for free? (41:57) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design: Meme Girls (50:17) Get over here! So you can discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Oh, Deer! Analogue: A Hate Story Ladykiller in a Bind Get in the Car, Loser! Splatterhouse Castlevania Shin Megami Tensei ALF Bubsy Halo Last Bible series Bible Master Wisdom Tree games Crack Down cover Street Fighter on the ZX Spectrum Sonic Jam Resident Evil on t
Mon, October 11, 2021
Ep. 205 - A Richness of Embarrassments, with Kelsey Lewin
Co-Director of the Video Game History Foundation and Co-Owner of Pink Gorilla Games Kelsey Lewin rejoins the panel to cover twitch leaks, EVE Oncrime, and the most difficult boss fight in the Braid franchise. Questions this week: Previously on Insert Credit: Does the intended commercial reach of a game have any meaningful impact on it as a creative product? (03:37) How would the game industry change if everyone’s salaries were completely transparent? (08:15) From Ash Parrish: What would be the most interesting reveal if your gaming information leaked? (12:46) What is the most excited you have been by a video game as an adult? (19:21) Who would be the worst video character to sit next to on an international flight? (24:46) Dirtbag Larry Bang asks: Which video games surprised you with the feeling of inhabiting a specific character? (30:58) What are the most exciting crimes in video game history? (37:39) Is there any way the Gamergate TV show could be even remotely a good idea? (45:02) Violence Island (50:05) LIGHTNING ROUND: Who Is This For? (01:06:09) If you’re looking for a sign, here it is: discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: The DK Rap Fortnite Rips Off Among Us Shenmue Far Cry 6 Famous Actor Giancarlo Esposito The World Famous Vincent Twitch source code and creator payouts leak Cyberpunk 2077 Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection Samurai Showdown NeoGeo Collection Mega Man: Legacy Collection Mount & Blade: Warband Crypt of the NecroDancer John Linneman <a href="https://www.
Mon, October 04, 2021
Ep. 204 - Hoodie Bones, with Mathew Kumar and Ash Parrish
Leading game industry professionals and Insert Credit Show regulars Mathew Kumar and Ash Parrish rejoin the panel for Mario voice cast announcements, Bayon3tta, and esports. Questions this week: From Brandon Sheffield : What games have been helped or hindered by having a tertiary gameplay system? (3:00) Was the Mario movie voice cast announcement really that bad? (09:17) In a side scrolling game, how large should the player character be? (15:13) Where does Bayonetta go from here? (20:22) What is the greatest unsolvable problem in game design? (24:45) Dirtbag Tiger Tiger asks three questions and for some reason Jaffe allows it (29:45) How do you report on mods and fan projects, knowing that more attention might get them shut down? (35:02) What’s going on in the Overwatch League lately? (39:10) How concerned should we be about video game censorship in China? (48:34) For real though, what is the Mamma Mia! of video games? (54:49) LIGHTNING ROUND: Mash-up Merch (59:25) Wait a minute, were you really not gonna discuss this episode in the forums ?! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Hey, Bayonetta, what is the main ingredient of guacamole?? Dungeon Explorer Save Ribbons Amnesia series Fable Mario casting news Chris Pratt Charles Martinet reading paragraphs as Mario Nolan North Dana Carvey Martin Short Only Murderers in the Building Giancarlo Esposito Bob Hoskins John Leguizamo The Lego Movie (2014) <a href="https://sopra
Mon, September 27, 2021
Ep. 203 - Tomb of the Unknown Gamer, with Mathew Kumar and Liz Ryerson
Leading game industry professionals and Insert Credit Show regulars Mathew Kumar and Liz Ryerson rejoin the panel for cryptid talk, Nintendo Direct, and pissing on gentrifiers. Questions this week: Vincent Diamante asks: What’s the best money you’ve spent on a free-to-play game? (04:33) How do you make blocking in a game feel as good as attacking? (10:40) What ideas does Quantic Dream have for Star Wars? (14:37) Which games were most interesting to you prior to their release? (21:04) Improv Zone: Nintendo Direct (25:15) Dirtbag PrivatelyAttack asks: What cryptids show up in an Altus JRPG set in the American midwest? (31:44) Who are the heroes and role models in the video game industry today? (40:01) Make a video game about Passion Orange Guava juice without making it entirely about POGs. (45:58) What is the I Love Lucy of video games? (50:54) Would the world be better off if there weren’t video games? (54:13) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design: Old Cursewords (from Dirtbag Yeso) (01:00:14) Don’t even act like you don’t wanna discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Ireland Scotland Sensible World of Soccer Sensible Soccer ’98 Sensible Soccer 2006 Sensible Soccer European Champions Prey Steel Battalion PlayOn Kinect Game Boat World Flipper Bejeweled 3 PS2 Swap Magic Asuka 120% Roblox Tommy Talla
Bonus · Tue, September 21, 2021
Bonus Credit - The Winds of Ganoria
A rare confluence of Jewish high holidays and immovable project deadlines results in a Patreon content unlock for the week! We celebrate the return of Frank with a few excellent stories about what he’s up to lately, Mathew Kumar has an incredible impromptu interview with Chris Remo about the design considerations of crosswords, and Ash Parrish talks about the shift from Kotaku to The Verge. Find over a year’s worth of excellent bonus content just like this at the Insert Credit Patreon! A SMALL DESCRIPTION OF EPISODES PULLED FROM: (Ep. 196, the weed episode) Pre-show. The panel describes what they’re doing to alter their perceptions of reality. Frank is so successful he’s gotta start turning people away. (Ep. 196, the weed episode) Extended break. Brandon shares the details of his dad’s weed, and an excellent spoonerism. Frank thinks Special Guest Patrick sounds gorgeous, and high. Jaffe is rotating a letter in his mind right now and explains the details of Doctor Who. (Ep. 197) Pre-show. Jaffe has been waiting for someone to take the easy joke, and Brandon does. Special guest Mathew Kumar writes down a new title in his Fantasy Book Idea Journal. Finally, you’ll understand Jaffe’s intro line for this episode! (Ep. 197) Post-show. Extended in-depth crossword puzzle discussion with Special Guests Mathew Kumar and Chris Remo. Genuinely fascinating stuff. big thank you to mathew for hosting this impromptu interview! (Ep. 198) Post-show. Special Guest Ash Parrish goes into some detail regarding her move from Kotaku to the Verge, and the current state of game journalism is discussed. Also, accents. (Note: from 36:35 to 38:53, there’s some compelling but also terrifying climate climate discussion. feel free to skip to 38:53 if you need a break from that) (Ep. 199) Extended intro. Frank, Brandon and Jaffe talk comic books. (Ep. 199) Special Guest Chris Kohler is playing Star Ocean. Frank likes that Final Fantasy I remake. (Ep. 199) Post-show. Brandon recommends F1: Drive to Survive. Frank and Special Guest Chris Kohler discuss moving from one office to another. Frank has an incredible story of busting bootlegs. All names censored. Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, September 13, 2021
Ep. 202 - Sincerely Sony Imagesoft, with Vincent Diamante
Insert Credit Co-Founder and legendary video game music composer Vincent Diamante joins the panel to cover the Playstation conference, Frank Cifaldi’s necromancy of Clippy, and Daft Williams. Questions this week: Since we’re recording on Dreamcast Day, what are your favorite Dreamcast memories? (03:23) What are the coolest ways to use specific instruments in a video game soundtrack? (09:12) What are the most interesting risk/reward mechanics in video games? (13:06) Which video game character would give the best deep tissue massage? (18:22) Improv Zone: Sony Keynote (22:33) Dirtbag Dilson asks: What is the most out of touch with reality game design idea you’ve ever heard? (28:09) Design a video game about the Nintendo 64 kid. (33:46) What is the most hellish assignment you can imagine for a video game composer? (36:54) Which video game set pieces would make the best Lego sets? (41:17) Who is the John Williams of video games? (46:26) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name That Game Tune (51:01) This is the line of the episode description where I recommend discussing this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Sega Dreamcast Illbleed The Last Blade 2 EWI Rhapsody: A Musical Adventure Eternal Sonata Wii Music Big Band Samurai Showdown Bushido Blade Celeste Hexic God Hand Cho Aniki Drill Dozer Zangief Hakan Dhalsim <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game-gr
Mon, September 06, 2021
Ep. 201 - Lovely Ball Kicking, with Kris Graft
Questions this week: Let’s talk about the rebranding of Gamasutra to Game Developer. (03:43) What are the best video game postmortems? (10:41) What are the most common mistakes when someone first gets into video games? (15:24) Which video game characters have the most complicated morning routines? (20:46) What video game or game adjacent companies should be renamed? (25:54) Dirtbag MoxBagel asks: Is it possible to have fans take games less seriously as an identity and more seriously as creative endeavors? (31:42) Why don’t you design a new item for Mario Kart? (38:26) Violence Island: forums.insertcredit.com Submissions (43:25) From Frank Cifaldi : Here’s whats up with that video about game price collusion (52:45) Who is the Mike Richards of video games? (59:08) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design: JAV Titles (01:01:34) Don’t you think this would be a good episode to discuss in the forums ? A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Clay Fighter series Gamastura is becoming Game Developer El Shaddai Postmortem: Resident Evil 4 Postmortem: Deadly Premonition Postmortem: Final Fantasy XIII Postmortem: Golden Axe Postmortems from Game Developer GDC Vault Monsters from the Id: The Making of Doom Crusader Kings Jim Lee Beneath a Steel Sky Jerry Lewis <a href="https://deadlypremon
Mon, August 30, 2021
Ep. 200 - Insert Credit Vs. The Dirtbag
After Frank’s brief absences, the full Insert Credit panel reunites upon their two hundredth battle. The task? Their greatest foe yet: one hundred rapid fire questions from the more than 420 dirtbags at patreon.com/insertcredit . Each panelist has four skips, but will it be enough to survive your best? Find out now! Have you considered discussing this episode in the forums ? A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Hershers Pizza Ep. 19 - Interactacular Ep. 180 - Insert Credit 20th Anniversary Ep. 110 - History Ep. 146 - What Is Wrong With Video Games And Nine Other Questions Activision-Blizzard Lawsuit NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139 Lufia: Curse of the Sinistrals Earth Defense Force 2: Invaders from Planet Space Antichamber Yakuza: Like a Dragon Vanquish The Sword of Doom (1966) Throne of Blood (1957) Wario Land Shoot 1UP Sucker Punch (2011) The Mighty Boosh Zork Bioshock Infinite Power Stone The Magic of Scheherazade The Legend of Oasis Live a Live The Adventures of Buckaroo Ba
Mon, August 23, 2021
Ep. 199 - Dreamcast Fruit, with Chris Kohler
Editorial director of Digital Eclipse Chris Kohler joins the panel to cover bug-free cartridge games, on air game history research, and a brutal round of Famicom Feud. Original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Mathew Kumar asks: What are the “phantom games” in your collection? (03:59) Which areas of games are most in need of preservation? (10:36) What’s the line between stealing an idea and iterating on it in video game design? (16:26) What are some mundane activities that would make good simulator games? (21:19) What would be on your cardboard sign at a wrestling event? (26:33) Dirtbag Seasons asks: Why and when did we start calling old games “retro”? (30:23) How, when, and where should games present content warnings? (36:39) Brandon Sheffield asks: What are your favorite side quests? (45:19) What is the Ghostbusters 2 of video games? (52:26) LIGHTNING ROUND: Famicom Feud – Video Games Notable For Negative Reception (56:24) Quick, now’s your chance! Discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: $1.99 Are You Out Of Your Mind? FM Towns Marty SWOS Donkey Kong Classics Adventures of Lolo Princess Pajama Taito X-55 Fortnite’s Among Us ripoff Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes Threes developer addresses clones Shenmue Panzer Dragoon Saga Quest 64 Phantasy Star III: Generations of Doom Cosmic Fantasy 4
Mon, August 16, 2021
Ep. 198 - YSCBA, with Ash Parrish and Liz Ryerson
Fan favorite panelists Ash Parrish and Liz Ryerson return triumphant to to cover Knuckles, vaporwave, and the multitude of things the hell wrong with video games. Questions this week: Let’s talk about Idris Elba as Knuckles (05:02) What are some cool video game collections you know about? (10:42) If you were in charge of a Fortnite music fest, who would you feature? (17:22) Are video games part of vaporwave? (23:00) Dirtbag Sleepy Nice demands: Name five metal genres, then assign five video games to them. (27:44) What the hell is wrong with video games? (33:19) LIGHTNING ROUND: Initial Design (01:16:18) A lot of smart people will have more to say about this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Mega Man Battle Network 2 Dragon Age: Origins Final Fantasy VIII Adel fight Worms Armageddon Idris Elba as Knuckles Idris Elba as Macavity Michael Jackson’s involvement with Sonic 3 The Knuckles Rap Black Woman Gets Two World Records For Her Vast Vintage Gaming Collection Death Crimson Travis Scott’s Fortnite concert Ariana Grande’s Fortnite concert Marshmello’s Fortnite concert Björk Death Grips Lil Nas X death’s dynamic shroud - I’ll Try Living Like This Broken Reality </l
Mon, August 09, 2021
Ep. 197 - Myst Opportunities, with Chris Remo and Mathew Kumar
Game designer, composer, and co-creator of Idle Thumbs Chris Remo joins the panel along with Mathew “Agent of Chaos” Kumar to cover the Honda Prelude, Crossword of the Dead, and live on-air cat noises. Questions this week: Jeff Gerstmann asks: What’s the coolest vehicle to ever appear in a video game? (04:54) Are the Myst games still good? What should people play instead? (10:55) What kind of feeling does acoustic guitar give to a game? (16:41) What’s better in a video game, an elevator or stairs? (22:45) What six C-list video game villains would you recruit for a government black ops team? (28:20) Dirtbag Gaagaagiins asks: What’s the best autoscrolling section in video games? (33:08) When and how do games successfully recontextualize frustrating tropes? (40:28) Review the concept of crossword puzzles based on their graphics and mechanics. (44:57) What are some of your favorite harmless video game hoaxes? (50:41) What is the Waiting for Godot of video games? (56:48) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design – Jodi Picoult (01:01:44) Don’t you wish you could share your answers to the prompts? You can do exactly that in the forums! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Dennis Miller action figure Musee Mechanique Warthog Pale Wing Vic Viper R-90 Ragnarok Sonic mine cart Honda Prelude Tokyo Highway Battle Fortnite Vehicles Kung Fu Rider Dolphin Blue Nier Boar OutRun Lotus Esprit Turbo Challenge Myst <a href="https://www.mo
Mon, August 02, 2021
Ep. 196 - The 420 Episode, with Patrick Miller
Insert Credit Fighting Game Correspondent Patrick Miller rejoins the panel to cover questions from the world’s hottest editor and producer , as well as lightly flavored sparkling water, the hottest games in palladiums, $5 bets, and WEEEEEED, DUUUUDE!!! Original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: What game characters smoke weed, and what game characters are narcs? (06:11) What are some underrated gamer snacks? (11:52) What are memorable video game dreams? (17:42) Do you think Bayonetta and Lady Dimitrescu know each other? What’s that like? (22:06) Do you think Sonic the Hedgehog gets tired of all the Chronic the Hemphog jokes? (26:09) Describe the worst Flash game you can remember, and give constructive criticism. (31:14) What’s with the weird relationship between video games and movies? (36:15) What can we say about the Winners Don’t Do Drugs campaign in palladiums? (41:51) Esper Quinn asks: What’s a game that’s just alright? (47:28) Who is the Willie Nelson of video games? (53:39) LIGHTNING ROUND: Untimed Video Game Weed Parody Titles (55:09) Puff puff pass on by the discussion thread for this episode in the Insert Credit Forums! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Grateful Dead Robert Crumb NARC NARC (PS2) Emperor Pilaf VOLCANO Cheez-It Cactus Cooler AHA Black Cherry Coffee AHA Apple Ginger Soleil Cucumber Melon Rap Snacks Have’a Corn Chips Zapp’s Kettle Voodoo Chips Nixie Peach Black Tea <a href="https://twitter.com/LotteMakesStuff/status/13
Mon, July 26, 2021
Ep. 195 - Knuckles' Chaotix Is For Lovers, with Jeff Gerstmann
Game journalist and Giant Bomb co-founder Jeff Gerstmann joins the panel to cover The Wheelman, phone phreaking, and Super Sushi Pinball. Questions this week: Rachel Weil asks: What are you favorite hidden gem video game reviews? (03:20) What does Frank have to report on his two-week absence to save video games? (09:20) What’s going on with the video game speculator market? (14:43) How and why did Giant Bomb become a wiki for video games, and hows that going? (19:57) Design a game about phone phreaking in the 20th century. (25:48) Dirtbag Kory asks: In the year 2050, what will be known as the most ridiculous part of video games in 2021? (31:25) What game design principles make a really satisfying pinball table? (35:26) Fifteen years after the launch of the Wii, what do we have to say about casual games? (41:12) What’s the history and current state of publishers paying for reviews? (46:34) What is the Francisco Goya’s Saturn Devouring His Son of video games? (52:27) LIGHTNING ROUND: Who’s It For? (56:36) We have a lovely forum available if you want to discuss the episode ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Shade wolf from Nier (spoilers) Dog’s Life The Revenge of Shinobi Kimimi The Game Eating She-Monster Mizzurna Falls Old Man Murray Erik Wolpaw’s Final Fight One Review Chrontendo Topher’s Sonic 2 review Vin Diesel’s Alternative Guide to Barcelona by tombo Vin Diesel’s The Wheelman The Video Game History Foundation, Which Was Co-Founded By Frank Cifaldi And Kelsey Lewin In Case You Didn’t Know Sealed Mario 64’s Record-Breaking $1.5M Sale Has Retro Experts Skeptical <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/nes/cheetahm
Mon, July 19, 2021
Ep. 194 - Kim Cardassian, with Rachel Weil and Lotte May
Artist and FEMICOM founder Rachel Weil alongside gamedev Lotte May join the panel to cover the Bally Astrocade, Jaffe’s favorite isekai, and Amethyst Princess of Gemworld. Questions this week: What’s the deal with the Steam Deck? (03:44) How does femininity best express itself in video games? (08:10) How can we translate the appeal of mahou shoujo into video games? (13:31) What’s the relation between video games and glitch art? (18:35) Excluding Nintendo, Sony, Microsoft and Sega, who are the top 5 console manufacturers? (23:09) From Brandon Sheffield : What are the best action games with female protagonists? (29:23) Dirtbag Spencer asks: what video game allows for the most self-expression, while not specifically being about creativity? (34:29) What are the greatest movie tie-in games made before 1995? (39:33) Who would you use as the template for a “look book” for designers of female game characters? (44:11) Who or what is the Lisa Frank of video games? (48:37) LIGHTNING ROUND: Pink Games (53:04) People will think you’re cooler if you discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Yakuza 0 Steam Deck Stream Deck Saturn controller WaveBird Bally Astrocade Imagine: Babyz Fashion Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar Mahou shoujo Sally the Witch Majokko Daisakusen: Little Witching Mischiefs Super Robot Taisen Kim Kardashian: Hollywood Cardassian <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/bishjo-senshi-sailor-moon-anothe
Mon, July 12, 2021
Ep. 193 - The Gex Hive, with Ian Bogost and Ash Parrish
Writer, game designer, and professor Ian Bogost joins the panel along with Kotaku and Insert Credit regular Ash Parrish to cover Hairizon Zero Dawn, Gex vs. Bubsy, and Sonic Actually Being Back. Original music by Kurt Feldman, including the all new Violence Island theme! Questions this week: From Liz Ryerson : What’s your favorite romhack? (06:04) Which video game metrics and features do critics tend to ignore? (11:17) Which games were most affected by ESRB ratings? (16:34) What are the best non-Bonk Turbografx platforming games? (21:58) Now that Facebook games are mostly gone, how do you explain Cow Clicker to somebody who wasn’t there? (26:23) Violence Island: forums.insertcredit.com Submissions (32:49) Has a video game ever changed your opinion about something outside of video games? (41:47) What was the most ambitious video game to actually deliver on its promises? (47:13) Who is the Slavoj Zizek of video games? (51:47) LIGHTNING ROUND: Dirtbag Driftglass presents: Casting call (55:29) Have answers of your own, do you? Share them in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Crush 40 Sonic Shoes Peter Piper Pizza Grand Poo World Sonic 3D Blast Directors Cut Super Mario Clouds I Shot Andy Warhol Horizon: Zero Dawn Lucio from Overwatch Marvel Spider-Man: Miles Morales Monsters, Inc. (2001) Megatextures Rage Hot Coffee </l
Mon, July 05, 2021
Ep. 192 - July 4th Best British Games Spectacular, with Bennett Foddy and Mathew Kumar
Happy Canada Day! To celebrate, Brandon and Frank (American) along with writer, designer and Insert Credit regular Mathew Kumar (Scottish) and legendary game designer Bennett Foddy (Australian) determine the greatest British video games of all time. Original music by Kurt Feldman. The List, in order of discussion: Sonic R (05:51) Lemmings (09:02) Pipe Mania!! (12:03) Burnout Paradise (15:20) Alien Resurrection (17:29) Elite (21:27) Damocles (25:34) Where Time Stood Still (29:46) TxK (33:40) Skool Daze (37:56) Wizkid (42:20) Batman: Arkham Knight (45:52) The Chaos Engine (50:11) Head Over Heels (54:12) Populus (58:35) Grand Theft Auto IV (01:02:35) WipEout 2097 (01:06:55) Sensible World of Soccer (01:10:32) Deus Ex Machina (01:16:27) Dizzy: Prince of the Yolkfolk (01:20:11) See the final rankings in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Charity shops Sonic R Lemmings Benefactor Troddlers GameCenter CX Pipe Mania!! Frisky Tom Burnout Paradise Alien: Resurrection Alien: Resurrection (1997) Alien: Isolation The making of Alien Resurrection PSOne Elite Elite: Dangerous Frontier: Elite II Zarch Damocles Outer Wilds <a href="https://www.moby
Mon, June 28, 2021
Ep. 191 - The Not Game Making Dimension, with Liz Ryerson
Musician, writer, and Insert Credit regular Liz Ryerson returns to cover lawyer angels, Charles Martinet’s infidelity, and Le Console. Questions this week: Kelsey Lewin asks: What’s the recipe for the worst way to play Super Mario Bros.? (03:42) Has a spiritual sequel to a game ever surpassed it? (08:58) How would you commemorate a series 30th anniversary when you have no new games to announce? (13:16) Can listening to a game’s soundtrack spoil the game? (18:00) How have video games failed the queer community? (23:09) Dirtbag MoxBagel asks: How do you design around players hoarding items? (32:49) If all the big tech giants made video game consoles, which one would be the biggest disaster? (38:28) What are the best unlicensed games? (43:36) Can realistic human jumping be fun in video games? (49:15) Who’s the Christopher Columbus of video games? (54:26) LIGHTNING ROUND: Glitchfork Reviews (59:03) Got somethin’ to say about this episode? Discuss it politely in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: NES Advantage controller NES Max controller Power Glove Game Genie Axiom Verge Bloodstained King’s Field Siren Thimbleweed Park The Legendary Axe Astyanax The Magic of Scheherazade Sonic Symphony Friend of the show Ash Parrish Topher’s legendary Sonic 2 SE letsplay Earthbound Chrono Cross Chrono Trigger <a href="https://www.mo
Mon, June 21, 2021
Ep. 190 - Crazy Taxicab Confessions, with Kelsey Lewin
Co-director of the Video Game History Foundation Kelsey Lewin joins the panel to discuss how weird the letter 7 is, the WonderSwan, and Metallica covers of Barney songs. Original music by Kurt Feldman. Questions this week: Brandon Sheffield asks: What is the best video game console nobody actually plays? (03:56) What would be the best way for a disgraced indie developer to announce his retirement? (09:19) What are the pros and cons of controlling multiple party members? (14:14) What’s the next ubiquitous video game trailer song? (20:11) Improv Zone – Museum Tour (26:13) Dirtbag Anonymous asks: What is the best callback joke in video games? (31:13) Which video game went through the most interesting development cycle? (37:06) Famicom Feud – Wonderswan Top 15 (42:53) What is the oxford comma of video games? (51:45) How do you really appraise hard to find retro video game ephemera? (51:59) LIGHTNING ROUND: The Discourse – How Cunning A Linguist? (57:09) You know, you could always discuss this episode in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: WonderSwan Insert Credit “Last Letter” Forum Game Sega Dreamcast Vectrex Multicart Spike Atari Jaguar Hyundai Genesis Scott Cawthon donates to Trump, other GOP Scott Cawthon retires Jeff Bezos is getting in a rocket Willy’s Wonderland Donate to the Video Game History Foundation There Is No Such Thing As Ethical Consumption Under Capitalism Guardians of the Galaxy <a href="https://www.
Mon, June 14, 2021
Ep. 189 - Purse Owner 5, with Dami Lee
Questions this week: From Frank Cifaldi: What’s up with E3? (03:47) How is the Korean video game industry different from other parts of the industry? (09:45) What are the biggest headaches in the world of video game translation and localization? (14:38) What’s the ugliest video game hardware you’ve ever seen? (19:42) What video game eggs would make the best omelettes? (24:13) Dirtbag Kory asks: How do you define the Japanese use of the word ‘gear’? (29:45) Which two game industry figures have never worked together, but really should? (34:51) Design a 90’s Master System clone. (39:34) Is there such a thing as a good webcomic about video games? (44:14) Who is the Nathan Fielder of video games? (48:35) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design – Dame Judi (52:45) Are YOU a bad enough dude to discuss this episode in the forums ? A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Sakura Taisen 4 Blazing Lasers Gooigi Death Stranding Directors Cut Elden Ring Metal Slug Tactics Mohammed bin Salman, Murderer and Majority SNK Owner Summoner’s War Genshin Impact PC bang Legends of Localization Samurai Showdown V Kris Inherto 3DO Master System Zeebo Jaguar CD Coleco Telstar Arcade Divers 2000 Dreamcast <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wik
Mon, June 07, 2021
Ep. 188 - Mariountain Dew, with John Linneman
Questions this week: From Brandon Sheffield: How would you run a cafe-arcade hybrid, and what would you call it? (03:10) How would video games be different if Microsoft bought Nintendo twenty years ago? (10:33) What factors decide whether a video game should be first person view or third person view? (15:02) What historical video game hardware breakthroughs are bigger deals than people realize? (20:26) What scenes do you hope to see in the new restored version of the Super Mario Bros. Movie? (25:29) What video games suffer the most from being played on unintended hardware? (30:37) Dirtbag Devils Blush asks: Who is your favorite developer of games you aren’t interested in playing? (39:33) As a player, when can you feel the absence of a cut feature the most? (43:21) How do you make a cool video game desert? (48:01) Who is the Guy Fieri of video games? (53:02) LIGHTNING ROUND: Product Placement (58:47) Discuss this episode among generally polite and universally cool people in the forums! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Misophonia Ys: Origins Thief: The Dark Project Project Milo insaneintherain Microsoft Surface coffee table uWink SPARTAN-458 Jiu Jitsu (2020) Breakdown Tom Petty - Breakdown (Live 1985) En Vogue - My Lovin’ (Never Gonna Get It) Nvidia GeForce 3 What Are Vertex And Pixel Shaders? Bump Mapping U.S. Games, a subsidiary of Quaker Oats NEMO Super Mario
Mon, May 31, 2021
Ep. 187 - Revealed: What War Is Actually Good For, with Gene Park
Washington Post Video Games Reporter Gene Park joins the panel to cover 3D growing pains, Magic: the Gathering card theft, and the return to that mountain of murder, Violence Island. Questions this week: From Mathew Kumar : What’s your “ol’ trusty” game peripheral? (03:34) Which franchise presented the more exciting future this week: Dragon Quest or Sonic the Hedgehog? (08:37) How has eBay’s recent reorganization impacted game history preservation? (14:04) Violence Island: Sonic’s Best Friend (19:39) Dirtbag Official_Danimalz asks: When was the “awkward puberty” of video games? (31:35) What makes a video game timeless? (36:05) What are the best murders in video games? (41:29) What should you never do when titling a video game article? (45:39) What is the Dragon Quest of movies? (51:27) LIGHTNING ROUND: Achievement Unlockers (57:07) What are YOUR answers to these immaculate questions? Share in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Mario Monsters Sector NGP Gene’s Virtua Fighter 4 Review (it’s at the bottom of the page) 30-50 Feral Hogs Game & Watch Multi-Screen: Green House Karateka Dragon Quest announcement stream Sonic announcement stream “Sonic Rangers” Rangerx eBay enacting adult content ban Tundra Miles “Tails” Prower Shadow the Hedgehog Amy Rose
Mon, May 24, 2021
Ep. 186 - Dirtbag Strikes Back, with Alex Jaffe and Mathew Kumar
With our regular host recovering from vaccination, Riot Games’ Alex Jaffe steps in along with Insert Credit correspondent Mathew Kumar to dig into our Dirtbag of Patreon subscriber submitted questions. (Content warning: conversation takes a pretty morbid turn in question 5. Also it’s a Mathew Kumar episode, so there is some swearing.) Questions this week: What should Brandon do with all these copies of TV Sports Football and Hockey? (06:37) TheFragranceOfDarkCoffee asks: Whats the best heist in video games? (12:17) Yeso asks: What personal problem in your life would make a good Yakuza sidequest? (17:57) Shun asks: Design a Kanye West-focused Nintendo game (23:53) Ravioli asks: What video game attack move would you want to be killed by? (28:23) Billy asks: Name two video games each in ten seconds each, then rank those games (34:29) Kyle in Montreal asks: if the main character of a game were to become the director of a sequel to that game, what would it be like? (40:14) Skebump asks: What would a new Panzer Dragoon game look like in 2021? (44:34) Shin asks: What is the most engaging video game credit sequence? (49:13) Sam B asks: Who is the Marcel Proust of video games? (53:49) LIGHTNING ROUND: Emptying the Dirtbag (54:36) Think YOU have better answers than the panel? You don’t! But you can discuss the episode here in the insert credit forums. A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Mario Monsters, which DOES feature our usual host Alex Jaffe Project L Friend of the show Patrick Miller Alphabear Road Not Taken Steambirds Alliance Bushido Bear Alex Jaffe’s GDC talk, Cursed Problems in Game Design TV Sports: Football TV Sports: Hockey Cody at Pink Gorilla 22cans 96 Tears by ? an
Mon, May 17, 2021
Ep. 185 - Newman On The Toilet, with Kazuma Hashimoto
Translator and media critic Kazuma Hashimoto joins the panel to cover zabbing bloboids, the three hundred and twenty six pathways of Shadow the Hedgehog, and The Masked Tuber. Questions this week: Liz Ryerson asks: What’s the hot new genre of video game in the year 2050? (06:11) Is there a spectrum of quality for pachislot games? (11:02) What defining element of a video game series do you wish the developers would be more flexible with? (15:43) What were the most self-ruinous business decisions in video game history? (19:59) Friend of the show Ash Parrish broke a story this week about a $10 calculator app for the Switch. What features can we expect? (24:42) Dirtbag Deadbeat asks: What is the most interesting reason you have stopped playing a video game? (30:24) Repeat from last week now that we have an expert: what are the components of an ideal RPG party? (35:45) What are the best video games you can’t play anymore? (40:06) When will we know vtubers have officially peaked? (45:18) What is the Jurassic Park of video games? (50:14) LIGHTNING ROUND: Review Scale Calibrations (56:31) Think YOU have better answers than the panel? You don’t! But you can discuss the episode here in the insert credit forums. A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Ys series Yakuza series Yanya Cabalista Resident Evil VIllage Mancala PACHI-SLOT biohazard PachiPara series Shadow the Hedgehog’s 326 Pathways 38 Studios N-Gage The Wait Is Over: Calculator Debuts For Nintendo Switch by Ash Parrish Nier Replicant v.1.22474487139 is the square root of 1.5 <a href="https://www.mobygames.com/game/donkey-
Mon, May 10, 2021
Ep. 184 - Gamer Type Gamers, with Liz Ryerson
Liz Ryerson triumphantly joins the panel to cover DDR dance pads, Batman games, and Burger Time Royale with Cheese. Questions this week: What are we learning about the video game industry from the Apple v. Epic court case? (03:52) What would be an interesting game series to play a Shuffler of? (09:04) Is there something you’ve wanted to see video games do for a long time, but once they finally did it you weren’t that impressed? (15:25) Which property-based video games take the greatest liberty with their source material? (20:33) Design a new non-dance game for the DDR pad. (26:25) Dirtbag Spencer asks: What makes a definitive edition of a video game definitive? (31:07) What game has the best party members? (36:41) Is there anywhere for the Battle Royale genre to go from here? (41:47) When have you had to lie about how you felt about a video game? (46:43) Who is the John Swartzwelder of video games? (52:34) LIGHTNING ROUND: Donkey Kong Universe - Phase 1 (57:11) Think YOU have better answers than the panel? You don’t! But you can discuss the episode here in the insert credit forums. A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Phanto Mask Sonic Ice Cream Epic v. Apple Epic Payouts Enter the Gungeon Celeste Everything Bizhawk Emulator Suite Sonic Shuffler Mr. Friendly by JP LeBreton Bennett Foddy’s Multibowl Sonic 4 Sonic 4ces Batman: The Video Game The Adventures of Batman & Robin
Mon, May 03, 2021
Ep. 183 - We Need To Talk About The Noid, with Jim Stormdancer
Jim Stormdancer , developer of Frog Fractions and host of Topic Lords joins the panel to hearld/warn of the return of The Noid, how to craft an ARG, and The Insert Credit Greatest Game of All Time (ICGGOAT). (Content warning: This episode contains strong language.) Questions this week: We Need To Talk About The Noid (00:57) What game did you have to learn to like before liking it? (06:29) Is there a line between surprising players and not giving them the game they paid for? (09:34) What do we have to say about NFTs? (15:27) Which game series have the most interesting naming and numbering conventions? (20:08) Dirtbag Kory asks: What are the best games about electricity? (25:52) What are the game design principles behind a good ARG? (31:39) What would your video game vanity license plate be? (37:53) What’s the best Star Wars game, and how could you make a better one? (40:57) What is the Paddington 2 of video games? (46:13) LIGHTNING ROUND: Adjectivity (51:33) Think YOU have better answers than the panel? You don’t! But you can discuss the episode here in the insert credit forums. A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: The Noid Hatsune Miku Avoid The Noid Yo! Noid KFConsole Dr. Muto Dr. Neo Cortex Ys Dragon Slayer: The Legend of Heroes Warlock Frog Fractions King of the Hill “Full Metal Dust Jacket” NFTs Long Blockchain Corporation <a href="https://en.
Bonus · Mon, April 26, 2021
Bonus Credit - Crazy Horse As Well
A half hour bonus episode of unaired material, previously exclusive to Patreon subscribers. Subscribe now for more like this! Original music by Kurt Feldman. (Ep. 175) Brandon explains who could potentially enjoy the film Pyscho Gore Man and talks about how incredible Mark Dacascos is. Special Guest Topher Docfuture Florence explains what he would have liked Batman: Soul of the Dragon to be and discusses Hong Kong filmmaking economics. Frank identifies which Daredevil comic Brandon is talking about. (Ep. 176) Brandon is frustrated by a Metal Gear Acid purchase and discusses The Grapes of Death. Frank makes a pun and recommends Metal Gear 2. (Ep. 176) Extended break. Frank doesn’t know what to do with the phrase “Golden Teet” and the strip club Crazy Horse Too. Special Guest Ash Parrish knows which one of the panel doesn’t write erotic fanfiction. Jaffe is upset about by A to X Video Outlet. Brandon solves the problem. (Ep. 176) Jaffe’s chewing again. Brandon just watched Reign of Fire. Frank was talking with a couple guys from Rare about Dinosaur Planet. Special Guest Ash Parrish has seen all the Olympus Has Fallen movies. (Ep. 176) Extended post-show. The panel, joined by Special Guest Ash Parrish, absolutely dogs on the box art for Monster Maxx . Jaffe asks a question he almost saved for a future episode: What is the qualitative difference between a 94% review and a 96% review? We make fun of the British again. (Ep. 178) Extended break. Special Guest Mathew Kumar discusses how we’re all going through it during the Pandemic and breaks down the No Woman No Cry equation. Jaffe makes a pun. Special Guest Kris Graft is taken aback by the hatred for Geometry Wars. Brandon explains how Insert Credit show works. Subscribe at any level to receive monthly episodes just like this, and much more exclusive content! Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, April 26, 2021
Ep. 182 - Chipfaced, with merritt k
Fanbyte writer and podcaster merritt k sits with the panel to cover the darkness within Viva Pinata, Bad Boy Reggie Fils Aime, and an explanation of what Touhou actually is. Original music by Kurt Feldman. (Content warning: This episode contains strong language.) Questions this week: From Ash Parrish : Congress has a button to destroy all video games, and you’ve been brought in to convince them not to press it. What’s the worst game to present? (03:25) What are the most egregious cases of falling upwards in the video game industry? (08:47) What game did you come around to liking after vocally disliking before playing? (14:12) How do video games express extreme speed, without sacrificing control? (20:06) Leaving aside Lester the Unlikely, what is the most unlikely video game? (24:45) Dirtbag Derek asks: What do you predict will be the cause of the next video game renaissance? (32:16) What’s happened in the Japanese indie game scene since Cave Story? (38:14) What examples of fans officially taking a game forward have worked out? (42:58) What is the Alvin and the Chipmunks of video games? (48:52) LIGHTNING ROUND : Seven Virtuous Minigames (54:40) Think you have better answers than the panel? Politely discuss this episode in the Insert Credit forums. A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Blind Box Vintage Game Magazines Primus - Too Many Puppies Ash Parrish Six Days in Fallujah Hyperdimension Neptunia Viva Pinata Genshin Impact Battletoads Turbo Tunnel Danganronpa Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad Gravity Rush Kudo Tsunoda Reign
Mon, April 19, 2021
Ep. 181 - All Six Of Them, with Ash Parrish
Game journalist and friend of the show Ash Parrish returns to cover Amiga AI, alien boyfriends, and pynball. Questions this week: From Heather Alexandra : What game has the tastiest potions? (03:53) What’s something you never want to see in a video game again? (08:27) What are the best achievements in video game AI development? (12:56) Which officially released video games are most transparently fanfiction of other games? (17:37) Design the perfect romancable alien RPG NPC, but make them distinctly nonhuman. (22:27) Dirtbag MoxBagel asks: How would you re-design pinball to be more of a 30 minute game instead of a 3 minute game? (28:40) Have you ever wished a game challenged you a little more? (34:53) What are the best liminal spaces in a video game? (39:41) Has your opinion of a game ever changed after speaking with the developer? (43:53) What is the Miles Davis “Kind of Blue” of video games? (49:52) LIGHTNING ROUND: Alphanumerous Characters (55:26) Think you have better answers than the panel? Politely discuss this episode in the Insert Credit forums. A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Seventh Son of a Seventh Son by Iron Maiden The Seventh Sign (1988) Synesthesia A Healer Only Lives Twice Phantasy Star Bayonetta Castlevania Holy Water C.C. Lemon Final Fantasy Potion energy drink Bawls Mamotte Knight Ico The Last Guardian Enemy: Tempest of Violence Final Fight River City Ransom <a href="https://www.m
Mon, April 12, 2021
Ep. 180 - Insert Credit 20th Anniversary
Twenty years of insertcredit.com , as remembered by past and present contributors. Featuring Vincent Diamante , Chris Woodard, Azurelore Korrigan , Patrick Miller , and more. Questions this week: What do you remember about the GP32, and how does obscure hardware fit in Insert Credit’s taste? (07:20) What are the best video game comeback stories? (11:42) If Insert Credit could secure the film rights to any video game, what would it be? (16:09) What gets changed when porting a video game? (19:19) What Insert Credit-type games influence Vincent’s music composition? (23:06) What is Tose up to now, and what other important game companies don’t we know about? (31:51) Insert Credit declared the death of print video game media on April 16th, 2008. Is that about right? (36:38) In 2009, there was some pontification on Insert Credit on what constituted “good” or “bad” video game journalism. Where do you stand on that now? (41:03) What are some of the most striking video game convention displays you’ve seen? (44:43) How did the cottage industry of new games for old consoles happen, and which ones are worth discussing? (49:50) How did the forums and community shape Insert Credit’s identity? (59:03) How can one still find obscurity on the internet? (01:09:03) What are the biggest differences between video game culture in 2004-2006 and now? (01:14:00) After all these years, how would you define your relationship to video games? (01:20:35) What the hell is wrong with video games? (01:24:54) How has Insert Credit changed since the start of the podcast? (01:44:53) How did you all go from writing about to developing and preserving video games? (01:49:24) Are video game blogs dead? (02:00:09) What are the best things to come out of Insert Credit? (02:04:40) Finish this sentence: Insert Credit is the _____ of video games. (02:09:15) Discuss these questions and obscure video game hardware in the Insert Credit forum thread for this episode. A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Lost Levels Vincent Diamante thatgamecompany Skullgirls GP32 Arcturus: The Curse and Loss of Divinity
Mon, April 05, 2021
Ep. 179 - Dirtbag Deep Dive, with Tyriq Plummer
The panel opens the Dirtbag, joined by game developer and composer Tyriq Plummer . Also covered: petty attract modes, the steamy details of Wario’s parentage, and Bleomard Nimoy. Questions this week: David asks: What are your favorite home console attract modes? (01:33) Big Steve Lasanga asks: is the pursuit of “legitimacy” by prestige games a creative dead end? (04:46) Sam asks: Why aren’t there more genre mash-ups in video games? (09:22) Shun asks: what would a Quadruple A video game be like? (12:10) Thundercricket asks: What is the most practical dungeon in a video game? (14:49) MoxBagel asks: How would video games be different if Sega was the dominant console manufacturer today? (18:36) Graphite asks: What are the most notable video game misreadings? (21:58) Aldo Leopold asks: is cranking the resolution in a PS2 emulator playing “the real game”? (25:32) Daniel R asks: What are the selling points of quadruple-A game Steampunk 1877? (29:00) TheFragranceOfDarkCoffee asks: How do you recommend a competent and enjoyable but not remarkable game? (32:27) Kiko asks: Is it possible to reboot Seaman? (35:41) Anders M asks: What countries besides the US, Japan, and UK put out the best games? (38:23) GigaSlime asks: What celebrities would you cast in your expensive vanity project? (41:58) George Rohac asks: What about video games still gives you hope for the medium? (45:30) Eric Eaton asks: What is the Bob Dylan of video games? (49:45) LIGHTNING ROUND: Spilling the Dirtbag (52:47) Think you have better answers than the panel? Politely discuss this episode in the Insert Credit forums. A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: SNK 40th Anniversary Collection Exile Dragon Slayer: The Legend of Heroes Samurai Showdown Yakuza 4 A Mind Forever Voyaging Call of Duty: Black Ops - Cold War Final Lap Twin World Court Tennis Volleyball Shooter by Necrosoft Games Avail
Mon, March 29, 2021
Ep. 178 - Top 20 Xbox 36Tacular, with Kris Graft and Mathew Kumar
Special guests Kris Graft of Gamasutra and Mathew Kumar of Future Club join the show to rank the top 20.17 Xbox 360 games of all time, as well as discuss unconventional promotion techniques, vanilla cake, and living to see yourself as a robot. THE INSERT CREDIT XBOX 360 TOP 20.17: Deadly Premonition Left 4 Dead NieR Gestalt Dead Rising Bloody Checkers Halo: Reach Gears of War Mamotte Knight Pac-Man Championship Edition Rock Band Lost Planet 2 Lost Odyssey Bullet Witch Ridge Racer 6 Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved Trials HD Iron Brigade Crackdown Vidiot Game Castle Crashers 20.17. Earth Defense Force 2017 Got a different list, or think we missed something big? Come politely discuss the list in the forums ! A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: MTV Presents Xbox The Next Generation Revealed Presented by Elijah Wood with Special Guest Performance by The Killers Interview: Astro A-Go-Go: Designing the Xbox 360 “The Big X” Xbox prototype GameTap Women in Refrigerators Yaris Big Bumpin’ 50 Cent: Blood on the Sand Gears of War “Mad World” trailer Burger King Games The Oliver Twins Bomberman: Act Zero Back 4 Blood Blue Dragon OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast Forza Horizon 2 Presents Fast & Furious Action Button Reviews Pac-Man <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watc
Mon, March 22, 2021
Ep. 177 - Yakuza the Musical, with Heather Alexandra
Double Fine’s Heather Alexandra joins the panel to cover Jerry Lewis, beating coins out of people, and The Ultimate MacGuffin. Questions this week: Previously on Insert Credit 20: You encounter someone who, quote, “plays video games for the story.” What games can you assume they own? (7:12) What does it mean to be a community manager for a game studio that mostly makes single player games? (12:35) What are the most video gamey things you’ve seen in real life? (18:04) It’s been one year since we all went into a global quarantine. How would video games be different right now if that never happened? (23:06) The Adaptation Game: Yakuza movie (27:49) Dirtbag Kory asks: What is the most underappreciated button on a controller? (32:20) What is the best MacGuffin in a video game? (37:25) Frank’s question: How would you design a video game museum? (40:48) What tea blends would you match with games? (48:37) LIGHTNING ROUND: Blue Rogue’s Code (52:59) Think you have better answers than the panel? Politely discuss this episode in the Insert Credit forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Skies of Arcadia Danganronpa Firewatch Kingsglaive: Final Fantasy XV Jerry Lewis Gallagher Gallagher’s Gallery Double Fine’s Discord Insert Credit Forums Everwild Fig Supergiant Grim Fandango Austin Walker Brent Porter They Live Intellivision Amico Gunsport By Necrosoft Games Available Now On Google Play Pass
Mon, March 15, 2021
Ep. 176 - Gin & Sonic, with Ash Parrish
Ash Parrish rejoins the panel to cover Final Fantasy XIV’s superiority, the Screaming Idea, and G4M3R5. Questions this week: Previously on Insert Credit 86: What games not originally designed for arcades would best make the transition to arcades? (01:58) What specifically makes Final Fantasy XIV the best MMO game? (05:17) Which games have benefitted the most from changing course during development? (10:37) What game features the greatest distance of quality between how good the music is and how bad the game itself is? (15:42) The pandemic is over, and each of you is opening up a barcade. What do you name it? (20:44) Patreon Supporter THX Deep Note’s #1 Fan asks: If you could design a startup jingle for a video game console, what would it sound like? (28:28) What are some things that video game fans THINK they want, but won’t actually enjoy? (33:36) What is the longest you’ve ever struggled with a particular challenge in a video game? (38:44) Topher “Docfuture” Florence gives this challenge: Design a singular controller to be put into a time capsule that will be the only controller to play all console games. It can have any button or stick configuration, but is arbitrarily limited to only 3 “gimmicks.” (44:07) Who is the Meghan Markle of video games? (49:31) LIGHTNING ROUND: Guess That Fanfic (54:29) Think you have better answers than the panel? Politely discuss this episode in the Insert Credit forums A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Michigan J. Frog Push Up Push Pop Push-Up Bra Ribbit King Hades Blitzball Flappy Bird Scribblenauts Firewatch Ring Fit Adventure Super Mario Run Stupid bad Rayman ad Final Fantasy XIV <a href="h
Mon, March 08, 2021
Ep. 175 - Just Wanna Murder Kids Again , with Topher "Docfuture" Florence
Topher “Docfuture” Florence joins the panel to cover holographic divorce, appeasement of the Froot Brute contingent, and Lammypedia. Questions this week: Previously on Insert Credit 31: Design a game for the Star Trek holodeck. (06:36) Which games in genres with traditionally minimal or completely absent narratives have the most compelling stories? (12:05) What would Animal Crossing be like if Tom Nook were as villainous as internet memes say he is? (17:38) Which corporate mascot has the most potential as the star of a great video game? (22:43) If there was a Friends video game, what would the strats be to speedrun it? (28:59) Patreon Supporter MoxBagel asks: In an alternate reality your favorite game that deserved a sequel but never got one just had its 10th game. What is it like? (33:31) What are the good Twitch streams and Let’s Plays for the discerning Insert Crediter? (38:10) Which video game characters should guest star in the next season of Scooby-Doo, and what should their episodes be about? (43:18) From Liz Ryerson : What would a DocFuture prestige TV show look like? (48:53) What is the Police Dogs of video games? (54:05) LIGHTNING ROUND: Death by Degrees (57:08) A SMALL SELECTION OF THINGS REFERENCED: Dilton Doiley Archie Meets the Punisher Holodeck Facade The Orville Seaman Black Tiger Bonk’s Revenge Katamari Damacy Ribbit King Mitch Hedberg Tom Nook donates 90% of his proceeds to an orphanage Yo! Noid Chester Cheetah: Wild Wild Quest Chester Cheetah: Too Cool to Fool Tony & Friends: New Adventures - Inva
Mon, March 01, 2021
Ep. 174 - Sega Macarena, with Liz “Lids” Ryerson
Liz Ryerson joins your favorite 7/10 podcast to cover the secret origins of CapyGames, the true name of the Saturn, and misunderstanding pixel art. Questions this week: Previously on Insert Credit #12: Which video game soundtracks are notable for their use of uncommonly heard instruments? (05:07) What musicians would you have chosen to celebrate Pokemon’s 25th anniversary? (10:06) Which video games are the best at inducing claustrophobia? (15:28) Which is better: games about upward movement, or games about downward movement? (21:09) Improv Zone: Salty Bet Commentary (27:17) Patreon Supporter Malcove asks: What is the best 3-player game? (34:42) What’s with Sony shuttering Japan Studio? (39:45) Is it time to retire pixel art in video games? (48:48) Frank’s Question: What do we think of modern pixel art emerging as a misunderstanding of classic pixel art? (53:58) What is the forgetting to defrost your ingredients until right before it’s time to make dinner of video games? (59:47) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design - Tennessee Williams Plays (01:01:28) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, February 22, 2021
Ep. 173 - We Don't Usually Swear, with Lotte May
Content warning: Brandon says a swear at 53:03, but it’s justified. Special guest Lotte May joins a Tim-less panel to have a chill hangout. This episode is a Chill Version features three new lofi tracks from Kurt Feldman! Questions this week: Previously on Insert Credit #14: If you could send 3 portable games to everybody in the world, what would they be? Game Boy Color edition (04:26) How will strategy guides in the Library of Congress benefit future Americans? (09:37) Why are some games so much better when played on smaller, portable screens? (15:44) What are your favorite pieces of bespoke, custom made video game hardware? (20:47) It’s 1995. What games would you design to enhance the launch library for the Casio Loopy? (26:06) Patreon Supporter MoxBagel asks: What game would you give a young Brandon Sheffield to change his destiny as an inveterate Nintendo hater? (30:50) When and how is the color pink best utilized in a video game’s color palette? (36:27) It has now been 24 hours since the February 17th Nintendo Direct aired. What can you still remember about it? (40:13) What is the worst advice you’ve ever gotten about your video game industry job? (46:14) What’s a game that would be worth making for an old system? (50:57) LIGHTNING ROUND: The Blank of Video Games: Coffee (57:44) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, February 15, 2021
Ep. 172 - Dithligonal Heckahedron
Permanent tracheal damage, Geoff Keigh3, and Dr. Wowy’s Pee Factory. Questions this week: Previously on Insert Credit #10: What can we expect from the upcoming Metal Gear Solid movie? (4:56) Frank’s question: What do you say to someone who wants your career in video games? (10:17) Remember E3? It’s back, in streaming digital presentation form! Is there no turning back now? (16:44) If we define a perfect game as one which exhausts every satisfactory application of its core concept, which games fit that definition? (22:25) The Adaptation Game: Saturday Night Live (28:43) Patreon Supporter Meghan Murphy asks: what game has the best post-game? (35:27) What’s the right amount of random chance to use in a video game? (42:20) What are the greatest lengths to which you have ever gone to play a particular video game? (48:06) What are the best bombs in video games? (53:40) What is the finding a long, crispy french fry in your order of onion rings of video games? (59:16) LIGHTNING ROUND: Playing Flavorites: Mega Man Robot Masters (01:05:13) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, February 08, 2021
Ep. 171 - Hidden Glass Shard
Bad jokes, meaningful treehouse hangouts, and the Five Best Video Game Magazines Of All Time. Questions this week: Previously on Insert Credit #123: What would be the worst movie to license as a beat-em-up? (02:21) What’s keeping big tech companies from breaking into video games after Microsoft? (07:42) What is executionally the worst joke you have ever seen in a video game? (13:21) Which human video game characters would be most valuable to examine for medical science? (19:39) What are the top five video game magazines of all time? (25:34) Patreon Supporter Beaion asks: What game are you always trying to get your friend group or social circle to play and why won’t they play it? (31:43) What are the ideal personal and environmental conditions which must be met before you play a video game for a long period of time? (38:28) When do you feel like you need to start an unfinished video game over from the beginning before you can finish it? (42:53) What was the best day you ever had just playing video games? (48:34) What is the “figuring out how to use the shower in an unfamiliar bathroom after a long day of travel” of video games? (56:50) LIGHTNING ROUND: Trademark-Free Video Game Valentines (01:01:53) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, February 01, 2021
Ep. 170 - Sonic the Hedgefund
Earthworm Jim didn’t invent the 90’s, he was just there. Questions this week: Previously on Insert Credit: What’s the most backhanded compliment you could give a video game? (02:52) Can we harness the feedback loop of gacha games for good? (09:33) What pair of short video games would make the best double feature? (14:58) Biolence Island: Viohazard Protagonists (20:31) Patreon Suppoerter John Beyer asks: is it wrong to play old video games and remakes instead of new video games? (32:50) If you weren’t aware of the credits, would you be able to tell Balan Wonderworld is a Yuji Naka game? (39:40) What video game actions would be more fun if they were decompressed? (46:23) Who are the Dexys Midnight Runners of video games? (50:33) Explain Gamestop stock manipulation to your mom. (56:03) LIGHTNING ROUND : Stock Market Tips & Tricks (01:03:13) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, January 25, 2021
Ep. 169 - Quorantine Spectaskular
A last minute guest cancellation means double value for you! Jaffe presents the panel with Quora.com’s top twenty video game questions at three minutes a piece. Quoras this week: Jay Sapinsky asks: how do you spot gamers in real life? (06:06) Nor Reza asks: What about Fallout Lore bothers you? (08:57) Aditi Triveti asks: What is the most messed up thing you’ve ever done in any video game? (11:49) Anthony Andranik Moumjian asks: Is it bad to leave a gaming PC on all the time? Can it damage the PC? (14:56) Andre Xast asks: Hulk will protect you from the final bosses of the last 3 video games you played. Do you live? (17:35) Kaan Kala asks: How difficult is legendary difficulty in Skyrim? (20:21) Nor Reza asks: What is something in the Call of Duty games that makes no sense? (22:02) Kyle Dring asks: Why are low morality games so popular? (24:11) Lily Shen asks: What is the cheapest thing you’ve done to win a video game that wasn’t technically cheating? (27:39) Anonymous asks: How do I find inappropriate games on Roblox? (31:21) David P. Black asks: Do soldiers in wars actually throw empty mags like in video games? (35:15) Sam Bunn asks: What game feature or animation makes you think “This person must’ve had a lot of fun making this?” (37:36) Nor Reza asks: What if you woke up in a video game and there was no way out? (40:39) Ryan Nelson asks: Are there any games that punish or mock you for playing it in a certain way? (43:18) Sean Kernan asks: What’s the furthest a parent has gone to get their kid to quit gaming? (46:10) Ryan Russell asks: What are some things that only gamers would understand? (49:01) Christopher Abrahams asks: Why do Marvel games not made by Sony feel like they are pandering to MCU fans? (50:33) Nor Reza, King of Video Game Quora asks: Why are support classes so dang boring in video games? All you do is heal people and it doesn’t feel rewarding. (52:56) Craig O Grant asks: What’s your favorite Minecraft trick and how do you do it? (56:16) Anonymous asks: Why is video gaming a “teenage” thing? (58:22) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, January 18, 2021
Ep. 168 - Game of the Year 2020
The only game of the year podcast willing to say, On Main, that VR isn’t video games, Sonic The Hedgehog The Movie is a game, and Dragon Quest XI came out in 2020. Alphabetical Nominees (Unranked): 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim (09:39) A Short Hike for Nintendo Switch (14:00) Animal Crossing: New Horizons (18:18) Blaseball (25:03) Deadly Premonition 2 (28:45) Demon’s Souls Remake (32:44) Disc Room (37:02) DooM 64 for Nintendo Switch (41:25) DooM Eternal (46:10) Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition (49:56) Final Fantasy VII Remake (53:57) GG Aleste 3 (01:01:01) Hades (01:07:17) Half-Life: Alyx (01:11:51) Ikenfell (01:20:22) Kentucky Route Zero: TV Edition (01:26:28) The Last of Us Part II (01:30:14) Spider-Man: Miles Morales (01:35:58) Streets of Rage 4 (01:40:26) Yakuza: Like a Dragon (01:45:27) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman . THE FINALIZED AND RANKED 2020 TWENTY: Yakuza: Like a Dragon A Short Hike for Nintendo Switch Ghost of Tsushima Demon’s Souls Remake Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition Final Fantasy VII Remake Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 Animal Crossing: New Horizons Hades Kentucky Route Zero: TV Edition Deadly Premonition 2 The Last of Us Part II Spider-Man: Miles Morales Disc Room DooM 64 2020 DooM Eternal Hyperspace Delivery Service for Nintendo Switch GG Aleste 3 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim
Mon, January 11, 2021
Ep. 167 - The Great Great Gatsby, with Patrick Miller
Patrick Miller victoriously rejoins the panel to cover high literature, experimental film, and the ultimate fighting game tournament arc. Questions this week: Previously on Insert Credit: What can you tell about a person based on their fighting game style and preferences? (04:41) As far as video games go, what is and is not cyberpunk? (10:50) What studio which has never made a fighting game before could probably make a pretty good fighting game? (16:36) What did Adobe Flash mean for video games over the past 24 years, what have we lost, and what can be saved? (22:12) Design The Great Gatsby 2 (28:00) Which video games make you feel the heaviest? (34:40) What are some games you went too easy on? (40:32) What is the Eraserhead of video games? (46:34) Giant-Sized Violence Island: Fighting Game Protagonists (51:35) LIGHTNING ROUND: Patreon Suporter Grandbag’s Funeral presents Name Design: Baskin Robins Ice Cream Flavors (01:03:40) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, January 04, 2021
Ep. 166 - Insert Credit Annual #3
The greatest video games ever made, ranked…again! The panel weaves through a new elaborate structure to determine, inarguably, the best video games of all time. Final List : DooM [Action] Celeste [Platforming] Mother 3 [Narrative] Dragon Quest V [RPG] Outrun 2 [Driving] Raw Danger [Adventure] Valkyria Chronicles [Strategy] Castlevania: Symphony of the Night [Metroidvania] Phoenix Wright [Visual Novel] Link’s Awakening [Action-Adventure] Capcom vs. SNK 2 [Fighting] Saturn Bomberman [Party] Stardew Valley [Sim] Hades [Roguelike] VIDEOBALL [Sports] Final Fantasy XIV [MMO] Dragon Quest Builders 2 [Creative] Baba is You [Puzzle] LoL [E-Sports] Genshin Impact [Free-To-Play] Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, December 28, 2020
Ep. 165 - Best of Insert Credit 2020
Some podcasts pull up old audio and call it a day, but when Insert Credit goes retro, we do it up right. All-time great questions return anew for fresh answers. Questions this week: Who are the greatest frauds in video games? (09:52) How would you adapt Bartleby the Scrivener into a video game? (15:13) Which video game characters who have never met before would you set up for a blind date? (19:28) What is the exact middle game? (24:04) What the hell is wrong with video games? (29:01) A national pizza chain has hired you to choose the games to emulate on their arcade cabinet; but they can only be abandonware by defunct publishers. What do you choose? (32:13) If there were a video game convention where only one company could represent each country, who would be there? (37:35) Who is the Prince of video games? (43:16) How could we save Sega by readjusting their timeline? (48:50) What’s the Day the Clown Cried of Video Games? (53:43) LIGHTNING ROUND: Pokedexperts (01:00:39) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, December 21, 2020
Ep. 164 - Happy Asparagus Week
The most wonderful time of the year descends upon us. The panel covers fishing, fancy finishing, and Finland. Questions this week: What was the last innovative use of 3D space in a video game? (04:04) What should I mean when a video game receives an award for “Best Direction”? (08:55) Why are fishing minigames so ubiquitous, and what’s the best one? (13:40) Are there any really good adaptations of video games into physical games? (18:12) How would you adapt the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade into a video game? (22:11) Patreon Supporter Gwifblymth asks, what’s going on with Treasure? (27:17) How good was the TurboGrafx-16? (35:40) What’s the Christmas Game? (40:52) What is the Cheesecake Factory of video games? (48:34) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design: Christmas Songs (55:26) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, December 14, 2020
Ep. 163 - It Doesn't Get Eddie Vedder Than This, with Heather Anne Campbell
Special guest Heather Anne Campbell of Whose Line Is It Anyway, Twilight Zone and How Did This Get Played joins the crew to discuss economics, Eddie Vedder, and an extremely good Improv Zone. Questions this week: Does something need to be done about poor performance and understanding of console transition games? (06:53) What is your favorite video game you’d still consider a bad game? (12:59) What’s the most interesting economic system in a video game? (18:12) What’s the most spectacular video game award show failure? (23:24) Which video game characters would most likely sign up for a UCB class? (29:18) Improv Zone: Video Game Characters in UCB Class (34:25) Question by Patreon Supporter Cera Sophia: What are the underappreciated creative/production roles in video games? (39:15) What can you tell about a person based on their fighting game style? (45:24) What can someone say to convince you to check out a game, in four words or less? (50:25) What is the Neon Genesis Evangelion of video games? (54:35) LIGHTNING ROUND: Slogan Slingin’ (59:33) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, December 07, 2020
Ep. 162 - Stanley Cuberick
A nearly educational episode, featuring time travel, masterclasses, and film director name pronunciation. Questions this week: Let’s fix the Sega Timeline (03:23) How can video games reward and encourage patience? (08:48) Who would you ask to teach the Game Design Masterclass, and who would actually do it? (14:55) Which video games have the most upsetting color palettes? (20:50) The Adaptation Game: 2001: A Space Odyssey (26:09) Question by Patreon Supporter Blue Milk: Who would you cast as the Kacho for an American GameCenter CX? (31:26) If you had to place five video games on the elemental plinths from The Fifth Element, what would you choose? (37:45) If Nintendo released a new version of R.O.B. today, what would it do? (43:17) Which video game has the best map? (48:07) What is the Freebird of video games? (53:25) LIGHTNING ROUND: Pokedex Entries (58:47) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, November 30, 2020
Ep. 161 - Legalize Bowsette
An asynchronous recording makes for a time-displaced good time. Featuring the all-new intro theme by Kurt Feldman! Questions this week: What dead video game genre is least likely to ever make a comeback? (02:36) If there were an international video game conference where only one company could represent each country, which would be present? (06:55) How are status effects best used outside of traditional RPGs? (10:48) Theme Sale: Pokemon Red Version, Chess Titans for Windows 7 and 8, 1992’s Clue, Zool, and Picture Puzzle by HAL Laboratory. (15:10) Question by Patreon Supporter Ross Hamrick: How do you think videogame nostalgia of the PS4, Xbox One, and Switch era will manifest in a decade from now? (21:14) What ISN’T a game, but FEELS like a game? (26:41) How can Nintendo improve the experience of waiting in line? (31:18) What is the least responsible video game journalism you’ve ever seen? (36:49) Tim’s Soapbox (41:25) What is the WATCHMEN of video games? (48:38) LIGHTNING ROUND: Game FAQs Poll Responses (54:25) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, November 23, 2020
Ep. 160 - Press H to Hershey
A decidedly digestive discussion of Dragon Quest, DuckTales, and Diedrich. Questions this week: What video game character creator has the best hair? (05:20) What is the most disappointed you’ve ever been by a video game? (10:27) What songs would you put in one of those video game-themed orchestral performances? (17:37) When has a video game been significantly improved by a glitch? (24:14) How would you make a video game where the initial design document is just the DuckTales theme? (29:51) Patreon Supporter Slick Rick asks, what is the most successful video game scam? (36:46) When does an otherwise good video game take itself too seriously? (43:11) What are the best shops in video games? (49:23) What abandonware games would you put in a national pizza chain’s arcade? (54:37) What is the Apocalypse Now of video games? (01:00:50) LIGHTNING ROUND: Closest Without Going Over: Video game fanfiction totals (01:07:36) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, November 16, 2020
Ep. 159 - Loopy Lorries, with Ash Parrish
Fanfic, narcware, The Lost City of Zinj, and Weiner Hotdog. Questions this week: From previous winner Gita Jackson, what video game would be most improved by making the protagonist black? (07:26) Which video game trilogy has the strongest three act structure? (14:33) What kinds of video games inspire the best fan fiction? (18:45) What role has console cloning played in video game history? (24:24) If there were a fighting game with only characters from dorm room movie posters, who would the strongest be? (29:16) Patreon Supporter Nathan Roberts asks, what video games could or should have received a sensitive British localization? (36:06) What’s with all the DMCA takedowns on Twitch streamers all of the sudden? (41:32) When do you wish a game was longer? (46:13) If you worked for a video game matchmaking service, what characters would you set up on a date? (51:54) What are the Black Eyed Peas of video games? (57:37) LIGHTNING ROUND: Video Game Sequel Subtitles (01:04:03) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, November 09, 2020
Ep. 158 - Writing Python Scripts While Skateboarding
Console talk, Tricky Dick, and the activities of teens. Questions this week: Who should get a Playstation 5? (04:18) Who should get a Xbox Series X? (09:47) In what ways can gamehuggers be more ethically minded consumers? (13:39) What video game was most improved by a remaster? (20:06) The Adaptation Game: 1972 Watergate Scandal (27:06) What are the best blunt combat weapons in video games? (32:14) What T-rated games are actually most suitable for teens? (39:21) What video games got popular years after initial release? (45:29) If you lined up every video game ever from best to worst, what would be the exact middle game? (52:00) What is the Pee Wee’s Big Adventure of video games? (57:54) LIGHTNING ROUND: Patreon Supporter Shun asks: in an alternate universe where video games never exist, what would the following video game industry figures be doing for work? (01:04:03) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, November 02, 2020
Ep. 157 - The Dirtbag Hour, with Mathew Kumar
A mistake at our Scheduling Factory means Patreon questions at blow-out prices! With special guest Mathew Kumar . Questions this week: Jerry asks, what life skill should be the next to receive the Mama treatment? (03:53) Moe asks, what video game action would make for the best Olympic event? (08:43) Dirtbag asks, have you ever realized you don’t like a game only after sinking lots of time into it? (13:28) Squit asks, how would you improve Sonic’s bonus levels? (19:59) Ross Hamrick asks, who is the Prince of video games? (24:53) Sam asks, what did we lose when we lost dedicated portable consoles? (29:59) Jonathan Qiao asks, what’s the most realistic RPG progression system? (35:40) Jack O’Keeffe asks, what non-racing games have the best driving? (39:56) tim rogers asks, whats everybody’s Sonic OC? (45:24) LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Review (53:09) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman . Art by forum user @SuperEffective
Mon, October 26, 2020
Ep. 156 - Horror Game Ranking Spec-Drac-ular
The greatest horror games of all time, according to a bunch of people who don’t play that many horror games. Silent Hill 2 Resident Evil 2 (2019) Resident Evil 4 Left 4 Dead 2 Clock Tower (1995) Silent Hill Silent Hill 3 P.T. D2 Deadly Premonition Until Dawn Tecmo’s Deception: Invitation to Darkness Baroque Rule of Rose Sweet Home Parasite Eve Danganronpa Siren Dino Crisis Devil’s Crush Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman . Opening theme “Mashtlevania” by Max Hully.
Mon, October 19, 2020
Ep. 155 - Animal Cro666ing, with Liz Ryerson
The game enjoyer, in today’s political climate, is a rare breed of individual indeed. Special guest Liz Ryerson CONTENT WARNING: This episode features artistic descriptions of gore during Question 9. Question 10 begins at 01:05:55 if you’d like to skip. Questions this week: What’s the last game you played for entertainment purposes? (05:44) What makes horror games fail? (13:44) When does video game culture most feel like a cult? (19:28) What are the most out of place songs on a video game soundtrack? (25:14) If you were making a Frankenstein monster out of video game characters, which body parts would you use? (31:13) Question by Patreon Supporter Kiko: Which game narrative would change the most if the protagonist had access to therapy? (38:08) What video games accurately reflect the time and money put into making them? (45:57) What are some fake video game titles you’d use as set dressing in a haunted house? (51:40) How do you do gore right in a video game? (56:42) What is the Rocky Horror Picture Show of video games? (01:01:55) FRIGHTENING ROUND: Reccing Crew (01:08:55) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, October 12, 2020
Ep. 154 - Fist or Twist or Blister
The term “Immersion” has been subject to perversion at the hands of vermin. Questions this week: Gaming injuries (01:21) Audaciously breaking immersion (08:40) Volatile video game partnerships (14:39) Greatest handheld LCD games (20:24) Theme sale (26:05) Question by Patreon Supporter MoxBagel, who asks: When you walk into an arcade, what is Your Game? (33:18) Most accurate game company name (40:14) Video game characters that remind you of someone you know (46:01) Beating Mario and Sonic at the Olympics (51:30) The Crystal Head Vodka Bottle of video games (56:06) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design (01:00:00) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, October 05, 2020
Ep. 153 - Ain't No Sunshine When Game, with Laura Michet
The questions are perfect. The podcast is perfect. And I feel perfect. Special guest Laura Michet . Questions this week: Video game verb actions (3:12) The first well written video game story (8:00) What’s new with ARGs? (13:22) Game articles that are fun to read but a pain to write (19:02) Bubsy’s Smash reveal trailer (24:03) Question by Patreon Supporter Gumby: What would a video game holiday celebrate? (30:09) The balance of agency and personality in game protagonists (36:53) The best time of day for video games (40:31) Recommend Jaffe a dungeon crawler (44:37) The Niel Cicerega of video games (49:40) LIGHTNING ROUND: Design a League of Legends champ (53:42) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, September 28, 2020
Ep. 152 - Doctors Hate Tim!
Don’t buy tables that have gun holes in them. Questions this week: Future Club slogan and jingle (03:34) Does rumble really matter? (09:01) Is it time to panic over Microsoft acquiring Zenimax? (14:22) Game director signature shots (20:29) Helping video game characters with tax breaks (26:39) Patreon Supporter Golok asks about the best video game cold opens (34:44) Rearranging level order (41:11) Saving the Mass Effect franchise (46:55) Five best video game documentaries (52:10) Musou games in other time periods (01:01:51) Edited by Esper Quinn . Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, September 21, 2020
Ep. 151 - Sex Zelda, with Jonathan Kim
Special guest Jonathan Kim joins the crew to cover what really matters: recognizing Columns as an essential work. Questions this week: Sell me a PS5 (4:23) Whats The Deal with game names, Jerry? (9:22) Sega’s neglected canon (15:27) Best aesthetics in worst games (21:12) Ideal fighting game cameos ( 26:47) Patreon Supporter Sam asks: How did Japan’s game industry recover? (33:15) Scott Pilgrim’s nostalgia timeshifted ten years later (40:54) Insert Credit as Majora’s Mask NPCs ( 45:14) Non-hellish game employers (50:53) The Raid 2 of video games ( 54:01) LIGHTNING ROUND: This or That (57:52) Edited by Blaine Brown. Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Tue, September 15, 2020
Ep. 150 - Patreon Question Bonanza
In this episode, Insert Credit answers your questions. No, really this time! Questions this week: Golok inquires about Capcom remakes (04:55) Daniel C asks about Japanese hidden gems (07:07) Beandog asks about getting into the industry (09:12) Mox Bagel asks about changing time periods for games (11:30) An anonymous patron asks what the Quibi of video games is (13:40) Cera Sophia asks about the future of dedicated handhelds (15:47) Boogie asks about the Playdate (17:52) Kyle asks which novels are the most like playing games (19:56) Jesse asks about the current Peter Molyneux of games (22:36) An anonymous patron asks what the most painful control scheme is (24:40) Brenton Woodrow asks which five persons or teams should get resources to make a dream game (27:10) Gigaslime asks about rejecting games based on bad humor (29:22) Kiko asks which non-mainline Mario jumps best (31:46) Chris asks which games are chill enough to warrant 80-hour playtimes (33:50) An anonymous patron asks about designing Sonic in a ruined Earth (36:07) Josh J asks about improving arcade games on console (39:30) Jared P asks about “dream game mods” on many levels (42:26) Sam asks for a decision between freaking, marrying, and killing Yoko Taro, Swery and Yoshiro Mikura (44:53) David asks for a Bartleby the Scrivener game (46:53) An anonymous patron asks which game is the best palette cleanser (49:52) Shane asks about new Funko Pop lines (51:53) Anders M asks about asymmetrical multiplayer (54:10) Spencer S asks about Xbox Ones in the psych ward (56:46) Suda 69 asks about hyperspecific aesthetics in games (58:59) Anonymous asks about video game webcomic resurgences (01:01:23) Kind Of Bummed That Mappy Is A Cop asks about VR for dogs (01:03:34) Andy D asks to redesign the Tour de France series (01:05:44) Wemblin asks if The Witness was any good (01:07:45) An anonymous patron asks about recruiting new Creative Directors in AAA games (01:09:47) MVB asks what thoughts Insert Credit isn’t qualified to discuss (01:12:12) LIGHTNING ROUND: Pokemon Design (01:15:38) Edited by Blaine Brown. Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, September 07, 2020
Ep. 149 - The Dunked-On Ratio
Breaking: Pregnant Elsa Dies at Dentist. Questions this week: Games Requiring Original Hardware (03:33) Mario 35th (09:18) Most Difficult Game to Review (15:13) Good Overworlds (20:56) Best Dentistry Game (25:10) What does “Overrated” mean? Question by Patreon Supporter Ricky Bankemper (33:03) Vlambeer Legacy (40:23) Unfinished and Abandoned Games (46:36) Babysitting Diddy Kong (54:13) Gunsport is the Towerfall of Stadia (1:00:08) LIGHTNING ROUND: Recc’ing Crew - SNL Edition (1:05:10) Edited by Blaine Brown. Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, August 31, 2020
Ep. 148 - GaaS Redirects Here
It is only through playing Sonic R-Kam Knight that you realize: everyone is a person. Questions this week: BGDCOAT (02:22) Lies, Damn Lies, and Not Actually Playing Video Games (10:25) Favorite Trains (16:00) Copy These Game Designs (21:35) Cloneverwatch Character (26:19) Best Overshadowed Game Question by Patreon Supporter Dracula Is Behind You! (34:17) Dream Features for the Switch Update 2021 (40:16) What we wish “games as service” meant (45:58) The appropriate time for realism (52:00) “The Day The Clown Cried” of Video Games (56:15) LIGHTNING ROUND: DND Alignment Chart for Video Games (1:03:45) Edited by Blaine Brown. Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, August 24, 2020
Ep. 147 - E pluribus unum, with Gita Jackson
E pluribus unum, that means I got mine, go away. This special episode features Gita Jackson ! Questions this week: The Sims Rule (04:10) What’s up with Roblox? (10:15) The line between video games and online gambling (16:49) What real or fictional location would make a great setting for a Hitman level? (23:10) G4 Lineup (29:17) Mario’s New Look Question by Patreon Supporter Known as “Shigeru M.” (39:20) Apple v. Fortnite (45:57) The Fables of Fable (51:49) Have you ever saved a video game for a special occasion? (57:41) Who are the greatest “Himbos” of video games? (1:02:53) LIGHTNING ROUND: Fancasting - Mega Man (1:08:52) Edited by Blaine Brown. Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, August 17, 2020
Ep. 146 - What Is Wrong with Video Games and Nine Other Questions
Insert Credit examines the balls on the stuff. Questions this week: What the hell is wrong with video games? What the hell is wrong with video games? What the hell is wrong with video games? What the hell is wrong with video games? What the hell is wrong with video games? What the hell is wrong with video games? What the hell is wrong with video games? What the hell is wrong with video games? What the hell is wrong with video games? What can we do to make games better? LIGHTNING ROUND: How have games gotten better in the last ten years? Edited by Blaine Brown. Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, August 10, 2020
Ep. 145 - Saving Blind
Insert Credit maneuvers into the Pocket Position. Questions this week: Pride (02:57) Unintended Demographics (08:57) ACAB (14:28) T-Shirts (19:41) Theme Sale: Ace Combat X: Skies of Deception, Battlefield 4, Perfect Dark Zero, Crysis, Tom Clancy’s End War (26:53) JRPG Pro Athlete Team (33:20) Missing the Best Part (39:49) Idea Jealous (45:38) LIGHTNING ROUND: Gaming Pedigrees: Dog Breed Edition (51:32) Edited by Blaine Brown. Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, August 03, 2020
Ep. 144 - Demonology Alternative Medicine
Dr. Mario Killed MJ and Other Leaks. Questions this week: The Aja of video games Question by Patreon Supporter Chris (08:21) Stage play games Question by Patreon Supporter Emmit (13:59) Which video game doctor most deserves to have their medical license revoked? Question by Patreon Supporter Kyle (19:29) Football manager games Question by Patreon Supporter Jordan (25:06) NeoGeo Pocket, Game Gear, Atari Lynx, and obscure Game Boy games Question by Patreon Supporter Sam (30:17) Video game Zoom table read Question by Patreon Supporter rootfifthoctave (42:24) Port into an FMV game Question by Patreon Supporter Mox Bagel (48:48) If you got eaten by Kirby, what power would he gain? Question by Patreon Supporter Keiko (53:20) High art movements or techniques for video games Question by Patreon Supporter Anonymous (57:56) Design the worst video game crossover Question by Patreon Supporter Anonymous (1:04:10) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design Star Wars Edition (1:09:44) Edited by Blaine Brown. Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, July 27, 2020
Ep. 143 - Every elephant that has ever died
In the outer wilds, things are getting pretty world. Questions this week: Xbox Series X Presentation Impressions Part I (03:00) Xbox Series X Presentation Impressions Part II (09:20) Is the world ready for Dreamcast 2? (15:58) What are the best games to play when you’re in excruciating pain? (23:27) The Adaptation Game: Moby Dick (29:30) What are the most satisfying video game environments to pulverize? Question by Patreon Supporter Breadface (34:48) Video Game Conspiracy Theories (42:02) Has a video game ever made you feel like throwing up? (48:49) On what occasions have game developers genuinely learned from their mistakes? (55:07) Which video game characters could do Agent 47’s job better than him? (1:01:00) LIGHTNING ROUND: Designer Drinks (1:07:07) Edited by Blaine Brown. Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, July 20, 2020
Ep. 142 - Football Numbers
We all know what gibs are. Questions this week: Bryan Cranston Presents the Ford Bronco (02:42) A $1200 Pac-Man Collector’s Edition (08:57) The Most Audacious Idea Thefts in Video Game History (15:19) Paper Mario EXP (22:19) Cashing in on the Cake Meme (28:22) 2007 IGN Campaign - Question by Patreon Supporter John (34:55) Does Deadly Premonition 2 live up to the original? (41:16) Twitter Account Ideas (47:20) Elemental Game Quadrants (53:40) The Horniest Video Game Without Sexual Imagery (58:53) LIGHTNING ROUND: Recc’ing Crew - Disney Princesses (1:03:55) Edited by Blaine Brown. Original Music by Kurt Feldman .
Mon, July 13, 2020
Ep. 141 - Park My Bricks
Wario may be the Bonk of Nintendo, but unfortunately for him–Sega is back. Questions this week: Nintendo Switch Online (03:38) Video Game Reality Shows (09:50) The Sega Aesthetic (15:49) Games for Broken Thumbs (22:01) Improv Zone: Wily vs. Robotnik (27:35) Have you ever been sitting in your car, at a traffic light or in a parking spot, and the car next to you starts moving slowly… and you freak out and think you’re the one moving? What a weird feeling! How can this feeling be translated into a video game? Question by Patreon Supporter Adam (35:56) Cowardly Video Games (40:39) Your Walk-Up Song (46:41) Modern Day LCD Adaptations (52:38) Is Wario a Libertarian? (58:59) LIGHTNING ROUND: Duke Nukem One Liners (1:04:58) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Stage 11-2 Theme’ from Vice Project Doom-Guitar Cover performed by YouTube user zer0_hunter 6066 and ‘Grabbag’ from Duke Nukem 3D.
Mon, July 06, 2020
Ep. 140 - The Other Belmont
In this episode of Insert Credit, we delve into the contents of the latest issue of Game Speculator. Questions this week: The Legacy of Andy McNamara (05:03) Is Video Game Box Art Important? (11:41) Worst Industry First Impressions (17:42) Video Game Dog Toys (24:20) THEME SALE: Super Punch-Out, Skies of Arcadia, Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time, Resonance of Fate, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (30:22) What beloved games are mostly regarded for their localization? Question by Patreon Supporter Colin (41:25) The “Luck” Stat (48:11) The Most Inaccurately Adapted Sport (53:50) Super Coen Bros. (1:00:25) The New York, California, Nevada, Indiana, and Florida of Video Games (1:07:32) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name a Fake Castlevania Game (1:15:07) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Theme of the Cheetahmen’ from Action 52, Remix by YouTube User GaMetal Remix and ‘Reincarnated Soul, Part 2 (Stage 1)’ from Castlevania Bloodlines.
Mon, June 29, 2020
Ep. 139 - The Wonder Bread of People
Play it later, Emulator. Questions this week: Old Business - WB Games; Frauds (04:24) 3D Platforming since Jumping Flash (09:02) Life After Mixer (15:36) Getting Lost in a Game Map (22:29) Worst Thing to Happen To You While Playing a Game - Question by Patreon Supporter Samuel (30:20) Presenting Your Save Files to the Court (37:09) Compliments for Games That Turn You Off (43:37) Jump Around and Talk to People (49:18) LIGHTNING ROUND: Soda Fountain (56:00) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Toss A Coin To Your Witcher - METAL COVER’ Cover by the band Ghost Fight featured on YouTube Channel NateWantsToBattle - Give Heart Records, ‘Iron Man - 8 Bit Tribute to Black Sabbath’ by 8 Bit Universe, and ‘Round 1-1 Shooting Ristar’ from Ristar The Shooting Star for the Sega Genesis.
Mon, June 22, 2020
Ep. 138 - Dumb-Like-A-Baby Stupid
There is no ‘I’ in Top Gear. Questions this week: The Good Itch (05:02) Revive a Franchise (13:41) Greatest Frauds (20:05) WB Gaming Bid (29:07) Theme Sale (35:55) Best Pre-90s Games - Question by Patreon Supporter Samuel (44:33) Delay Announcement Strats (51:42) Crouching (58:30) Character Diet (1:05:03) What Are The Whats of Video Games? (1:11:14) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design Trump Edition (1:19:53) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Toe The Line’ from Wolfenstein - The New Order and ‘Blue Level’ from Tempest 2000.
Mon, June 15, 2020
Ep. 137 - Raystration 5
The Truth is He Hate You. Music ‘PS5 Hardware Reveal Trailer’ from PS5 Hardware Reveal Trailer and ‘Web Launch’ from Spider-Man for the PS4. Questions this week: If This Was E3 (02:06) Consoles for Cockroaches (07:16) The Next Hot Exclusive IP for Xbox (12:10) Console Allegiance (18:04) Time loop games (23:24) Fortnite Kart (28:35) What was missing? (33:57) Do any games use the new graphics? (39:27) Called Shots (45:26) Frank’s Bad Question (51:03) Controller Paddle Mystery (55:40) Will there be a PS6? (59:43) LIGHTNING ROUND: Ranking Every PS5 Game (1:02:01) Edited by Blaine Brown.
Mon, June 08, 2020
Ep. 136 - PS2CULAR
If it’s gotta be one, it’s gotta be 2. Ranking games from the PS2. Official PS2 Games List: Raw Danger! R-Type Final Katamari Damacy Bujingai Steambot Chronicles SMT Nocturne Silent Hill 2 Chulip God Hand Ghost in the Shell: Standalone Complex Breath of Fire V Psi Ops Burnout 3: Takedown Drag-On Dragoon 2 Neo Contra Ico Metal Gear Solid 2 Outrun 2006: Coast 2 Coast Michigan Ape Escape 3 LIGHTNING ROUND: PS2 games that did not make the list Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Magical Sound Shower EuroMix’ From OutRun 2006 Coast 2 Coast and ‘Ghost Approaching (Stage 4)’ from Bujingai.
Mon, June 01, 2020
Ep. 135 - Tim Schafer Definitely Listens to This Show
Gotta Fro Grast, Randomize your Chicken, and head on down to OnlyFranks.com on this week’s Insert Credit. Questions this week: Jigsaw puzzles (05:36) The Next Video Game Animal Star (11:24) Universal Standard Game Length Time (17:37) Soundtracks to Dance To (24:25) The Improv Zone: Magazines, YouTube, & Insert Credit (30:19) The Velvet Underground and Nico of Video Games Question by Patreon Supporter Esper (36:06) Video Game Offices (The Mortal Kombat Ad) (42:36) Localizing American Video Games (48:08) Video Game Characters on TikTok (54:14) Ranking the Decades (1:00:03) LIGHTNING ROUND: Flavor of the Month (1:06:24) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Intro’ From Digital Pinball - Last Gladiators and ‘Dunes’ from Xeno Crisis.
Mon, May 25, 2020
Ep. 134 - Finding the Promontory
Insert Credit has it all: robot turds, dead fish, speedbuns, night candy, and even the satisfaction of having eaten a full meal in one second. Questions this week: Genre Subversion (06:58) Getting Stuck (13:04) Good Game Sound Effects (19:18) Business Games (25:42) Video Game Marching Band (Parappa Sucks) (31:16) Brian from Patreon asks about: Renaming Video Games (38:02) The Correct Size of an RPG Party (46:52) Limited Run Games (53:09) Playing Games Wrong (59:12) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design (1:05:24) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Title Theme’ from Sim City SNES and ‘PaPaPa Love’ from Muscle March.
Mon, May 18, 2020
Ep. 133 - Doom Demon Plate Crash
The Brain Kickstarter. Insert Credit and The Whimsical Shooting Simulator. Questions this week: Aging Video Game Stars The Legacy of the 2010s Video game preservation in the time of constant updates What are the hallmarks of a great video game trailer? The Adaptation Game: Bazooka Joe Alex C asks: Was Lost Planet 2 Proto-Destiny? Has anyone played any game they backed on Kickstarter? Podcasting Games Joke Weapons Most effective space-based games LIGHTNING ROUND: Crunch Time Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘The Rival (Black Knight - First Battle)’ From Shovel Knight and ‘Neonlight Galaxy (Combo Mix)’ from Penguin Wars.
Mon, May 11, 2020
Ep. 132 - Jinn Quest
Everybody’s played Journey. You’ve played Journey. The Fine Line Between ‘Yes, And’ and ‘Yeah, Actually’. Questions this week: What would it take to get you actually excited about a new console (05:10) This week an English fan translation was released for LSD dream emulator. What is this game and how do you play it (11:55) Hideo Kojima fans often praise the themes for his games for their uncanny predictive powers. What makes his games so apparently prescient (18:15) What are the qualities of a Valis-like (24:28) Improv-zone. Frank, you are Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser at your first share holder meeting. You are desperately attempting to earn the faith of Tim and Brandon, who each suspect you be the actual King Bowser. (31:30) Patron question: What 2D game is closest to the Yakuza series (39:42) What’s the best bootleg video game merchandise you’ve seen in the wild (46:08) Have video games ever been worse for taking player feedback to heart (52:41) What is the Olive Garden of video games (58:45) If you were given unlimited funds to develop a video game, and you had to prove all the funds were being used on the video game, how would you exploit that resource to help as many people as possible (1:04:30) LIGHTNING ROUND: Slogan Slinging (1:08:30) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Title Theme’ From Bashi Bazook and ‘Vecanti’ from Valis IV.
Mon, May 04, 2020
Ep. 131 - Interforce: Heck Fire - The Official Game of the Movie
Insert Credit Enters the Whack-a-Box Hard Mode Challenge. Questions this week: The ideal mini-game (05:28) If Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft made cars (11:52) Favorite ways that games have covered up clearly running out of time or money (17:10) Which of Sonic the Hedgehog’s friends owes him the most amount of money (23:05) Best first impressions made by an non-player video game character (28:40) Shouting the name of a video game every time you’re hurt (35:34) Gaming’s most iconic romance (41:03) Face mask designed by any video game artist (46:57) Who should have played Geralt in the Netflix series The Witcher (53:38) What’s the longest period you’ve spent exclusively playing one video game (59:51) LIGHTNING ROUND: Boss Rush to Hell (01:06:06) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Animal Crossing New Horizons Theme’ From Animal Crossing New Horizons, Cover by YouTube User FamilyJules and ‘Theme 1’ from Knack.
Thu, April 30, 2020
Ep. 130 - Lick the Knife
Agree with each other or get the buzzer. Questions this week: When is a board game better than a video game (04:30) When is the easiest job in the video game business (10:50) Easily fixable flaw (17:16) What games should have been on another platform (22:50) If you were part of the Yakuza in the video game series Yakuza what would your specialty be (28:40) What are they holding back for Mario Maker 3 (34:56) Sell me on Diaster Report (41:12) Alamo Drafthouse of video games (47:10) If you could have any piece of clothing from a video game what would it be. (54:20) The best speed runner in the world at a video game of your choice (01:02:18) LIGHTNING ROUND: Auto Player One (01:08:58) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘34 t u s k’ From Yakuza 0 and ‘Move Me’ from Ridge Racer Type 4.
Mon, April 27, 2020
Ep. 129 - Do Me, Ternal
After 10,000 years we’re free, et cetera. The insert credit show has returned. Insert Credit: The only show on the internet in which we weekly deliver the loudest news, reviews, tips, and tricks; fresh-dripped, hot from the bottom of video games themselves. Questions this week: How will Coronavirus change video games (02:46) Which game sequels forgot the little things (09:22) What was the 2017 GotY (16:12) If half life alyx isn’t enough to bring people to VR what will (22:38) What are some setting options every game menu should have by now but doesn’t (29:05) What was the 2018 GotY (35:40) What would change in a FF7 remake style reboot of your time in highschool (46:20) What are these sisterly qualities (52:36) Is the PS5 controller everything you’ve been dreaming of and more (59:10) What was the 2019 GotY (01:05:25) LIGHTNING ROUND: Zoology Crossing (01:11:45) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘The Only One’ From Astral Chain and ‘Connor Main Theme’ from Detroit: Become Human.
Thu, April 27, 2017
Ep. 128 - If The Shoe Fits, Be a Clown
Sharing games with your friends can be fun, OR IT CAN BE ILLEGAL!!!! Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Very No’ From Ane-san.
Wed, April 12, 2017
Ep. 127 - Is The Switch The Ideal Console?
Fruit is vegetables for idiots. Questions this week: Given infinite resources is it actually possible to make guaranteed money in video games? (08:36) Movie Games (27:05) Is the Nintendo Switch the ideal video game console? (47:47) Insert Credit Mailbag (01:01:34) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Gruen’ From Bulk Slash.
Sat, April 16, 2016
Ep. 126 - The Longer Con
Insert Credit talks memories and conventions. Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Heart of Fire’ From Castlevania: Harmony of Despair.
Wed, March 30, 2016
Ep. 125 - Free Lap Dances for Devs
Insert Credit Is Stuck in a Room Full of Holes. Questions this week: That Let’s Play Cancer (03:30) 3D Printing Steam Controllers (16:05) Fake NX Controller (25:02) Favorite Easter Eggs (29:25) GTA Deer Cam (41:41) Xbox Wins Gross GDC Party Award (47:03) Firewatch Copycats (55:33) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Everything vs Everything’ from MUGEN
Tue, March 08, 2016
Ep. 124 - SD Remix
Insert Credit Announces ‘The Face Phone.’ Changing the World One Face at a Time. Questions this week: Coleco Chameleon (03:30) Insert Credit Console (09:26) Nintendo NX (17:02) Hacking Your Own Game (30:38) Cool Modes in Video Games (38:12) Best Video Game Remixes (52:28) Doom (01:04:00) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Brutal Doom Trailer Theme’ by Andrew Hulshult.
Thu, February 25, 2016
Ep. 123 - Part-Time Un-American Monster
In this episode a fruitless conversation will ensue. Questions this week: Real Life NPCs (05:03) Worst Licensed Beat ’Em Up Possible (20:42) Video Game Reactions (26:35) Arbitrary Constraints (36:00) Heat: The Video Game (49:32) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Duck Hunt Remix Collab 01 – M.V.F.L.G.’ by YouTube User Tellee Kinetic.
Wed, February 17, 2016
Ep. 122 - The Knife That Cuts the World
Are you a paragon? Or are you a maverick? Narrative Genre Classifications: Silent Observer (08:30) Forced Participation (17:50) Multitasking Forced Participation (29:44) Heavily Scripted Cinematic (44:04) Text Dense Approach (58:00) Pure Abstraction (01:05:22) Make Your Own (Emergent Narrative) (01:10:42) Narrative Tree (01:14:46) Voice of God (01:16:50) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Heartache’ From Undertale.
Tue, February 09, 2016
Ep. 121 - 250 Million Dollars Worth of Death
Video games, but who cares? Questions this week: Writing (01:20) Voice (12:00) Grasping for Words (16:22) Reading Influences (20:48) Starting with a Point or a Feeling (39:15) Worst Writing (52:09) Liking Your Own Writing (01:05:50) Forgiving Bad Writers. (01:15:20) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Courtroom Lobby First Prelude’ From Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney.
Thu, January 28, 2016
Ep. 120 - Black Label Jonathan Blow
“I’d pay hundreds if I was assured it’d be a great experience.” -Nicholas Wasilewski, Action Button Entertainment Programmer Questions this week: The Witness (02:15) $100 Video Game (17:10) Most Paid for a Game (42:03) Greatest Resell Value Games (53:50) RAD Lifetime Spending (58:59) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘The Witness Release Date Trailer’ From The Witness.
Thu, January 21, 2016
Ep. 119 - That’s No Uppercut
Personally, I call it a Star Punch. Question this week: Thoughts on the term ‘Gamer.’ Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Main Theme’ From Punch-Out!! Wii.
Fri, January 08, 2016
Ep. 118 - Potentially Mythical
A Non-Bonkers Cat Cop. Questions this week: Preferred Languages (03:44) Foreign Story (13:44) Discoverable Secrets (41:00) Deliberately Hidden Information vs. Implied Unprovided Information (01:16:20) Dragon Quest (01:26:00) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Taking on the Shagohod Guitar Cover’ From Metal Gear Solid 3 performed by YouTube user DSC.
Tue, December 22, 2015
Ep. 117 - OVVNIIID
Decompose in Real Time. Questions this week: Thrillogies (03:00) Longest Session (15:50) Longest Completion (29:55) Most Combined Hours (45:22) Cathedrals (58:10) Change (01:16:22) Spoilers (01:20:50) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Quiet’s Theme Guitar Cover’ From Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain performed by YouTube user DSC.
Thu, December 17, 2015
Ep. 116 - Star Lord of the Matrix
Trilogies and Series. Questions this week: What does anyone think about Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, and the Matrix (05:11) Video game series (21:05) Do you find it as engaging to play older games knowing what you know now (30:00) Aren’t there any video games that are trilogies? (40:00) Low res 3D (46:40) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Tetris Guitar Medley’ by YouTube user DSC.
Thu, December 10, 2015
Ep. 115 - Big Weird Box
Any aspect ratio is incorrect for Bubsy. Questions this week: Tetris Movie (04:20) Nintendo Badge Arcade (11:39) Bubsy Towfer (19:10) Birthday Mania (25:50) Mother 3 Republished (34:50) Tim’s Thoughts on Dragon Quest (42:00) Posthumous Physical Product Releases (48:37) Activision Requires King (01:01:34) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Power to Progress’ by Darren and Steven Loveday from the Life is Strange Soundtrack.
Thu, November 19, 2015
Ep. 114 - Indie Mega Truth
Game marketing for cool guys. Questions this week: What’s the last game that surprised you. (08:15) How did you find these games that surprised you. (14:35) How do we get people to find cool things. (19:30) This so called indie apocalypse. (42:15) If you were a business person what video game would you fund right now. (47:55) Could of make a version of this game that would you want to play and would be willing to make. (55:23) Are there games that you all want to be playing but people are not making them anymore. (58:00) Curators (01:00:00) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Uroboros’ by Eirik Suhrke from the game soundtrack to Downwell.
Thu, November 05, 2015
Ep. 113 - Vertilidrome
On Unlucky #113 Insert Credit discusses fashion in video games. Questions this week: Hats in Video Games (02:40) Hair in Video Games (08:57) Glasses in Video Games (15:18) Jackets in Video Games (21:42) Shirts in Video Games (28:07) Belts in Video Games (34:15) Pants in Video Games (40:48) Dresses in Video Games (47:04) Shoes in Video Games (53:24) Accessories in Video Games (59:38) LIGHTNING ROUND: Review the List (01:06:21) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Spread the Wings Remix’ from Fatal Fury: Mark of the Wolves remixed by YouTube user RBGasp. The Best: Hat: Cormano (Sunset Riders) Hair: Lightning (Final Fantasy XIII) Glasses: Lucca (Chrono Trigger) Jacket: Rock Howard (Garou: Mark of the Wolves) Shirt: Fiona Belli (Haunting Ground) Belt: Tetsuya Nomura Pants: Chun-Li Dress: Ulala (Space Channel 5) Shoes: Sonic the Hedgehog Accessory: B. Jenet (Garou: Mark of the Wolves)
Bonus · Thu, November 05, 2015
Bonus Credit – Jokes in the Dark
This bonus excerpt is from the initial attempt at #113 before Everything Went Wrong™. Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Stage 3 Remix’ from Sunset Riders for the SNES remixed by YouTube user MOD.
Wed, October 28, 2015
Ep. 112 - The Future With Pixels
Join Showboys and Showbabies in this Frank Episode of Insert Credit. Questions this week: What Do People Like About Retro Games? (03:15) Undertale (15:55) Top 10 List of Games Developers Should Play (22:55) Top 10 List of Games Developers Should Play: Castlevania: Dracula X Rondo of Blood Gunstar Heroes The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening EarthBound Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Shining Force II Secret of Monkey Island Dragon Quest V Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals Gate of Thunder Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Spear of Justice’ and ‘Dogsong’ from Undertale for the PC.
Wed, October 07, 2015
Ep. 111 - The Show With the Nost Algia
A look back on looking back with Insert Credit. Questions this week: Why Collect? (02:06) Video Game Imagination Play (08:45) What's the most money you would pay for something you really want (17:17) Past Games vs. Present Games (31:27) Future Nostalgia (40:00) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Ilberns Ruins’ from Ys III Wanderers from Ys for the PC Engine.
Sun, October 04, 2015
Ep. 110 - History
Recorded in Korea, England, and America. The final installment of Insert Credit Abroad. Brandon buys games in Korea. Tim's long journey home. Edited by Blaine Brown.
Wed, September 23, 2015
Ep. 109-part-two - Part Two – Insert Credit Abroader
Recorded on the streets and in the buildings of Japan. Part two. TGS and Japan game haul. Edited by Blaine Brown.
Tue, September 22, 2015
Ep. 109 - Part One – Insert Credit Abroad
Recorded on the streets and in the buildings of Japan. Part one. How to poop in Japan. Edited by Blaine Brown.
Sun, September 20, 2015
Ep. 108 - 108
Intentionally mellow and unintentionally staticky memories and introspection. Questions this week: What are your internet handle origins? (04:35) What are the best gamer internet handles you’ve seen? (14:30) How many Insert Credit community members have you met? (23:16) How did Brandon meet Frank? (23:34) How and why did Frank start Lost Levels? (26:26) How and why did Brandon start Insert Credit? (31:50) What’s your first memory of meeting an impressive video game personality? (42:00) What made Tim decide to join Insert Credit? (55:00) Questions we didn’t discuss: Games with a lot of characters? (01:16:50) Chinese culture in games? (01:17:10) Buddhist references in games? (01:18:42) What is worth remembering and talking about when it comes to Namco? (01:20:24) Arcade ports more interesting than the originals? (01:21:15) Edited by Blaine Brown.
Thu, September 03, 2015
Ep. 107 - The Truth About Stacy, with Ian Adams
Babysitting with Ian Adams. Questions this week: Mario vs. Mario (02:08) Free to Pay Aesthetics (08:29) Steam Discovery (15:00) FREE VIDEOBALL CODES (23:00) What’s the Point of Consoles (31:36) LIGHTNING ROUND: Baby-Sitters Club (36:30) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Jeffrey Theme’ from Virtua Fighter Arcade and ‘Battle Theme 3’ from Rising Thunder.
Fri, August 21, 2015
Ep. 106 - Fat Guy to That Guy, with Mathew Kumar
Mario Sandwich Maker. Questions this week: Eat Fresh Sandwich Video Games Brand Identity Wahoo Maker Dragon Quest XI Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Pepsiman Theme Song’ from Pepsiman for the PlayStation.
Sun, August 16, 2015
Ep. 105 - Inappropriate Implementation of Organ Music
Separates the Rubes from the Iks Cubes. Questions this week: Console Startup Sounds and Soundlogos What Are You Playin’? What Are You Buyin’? Nicholas Cage Saves the President’s Doughrter Level Rush Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Track 2’ from Die Hard Arcade for the Sega Saturn.
Mon, August 10, 2015
Ep. 104 - One Button Starcraft
The Bigger the Trouble the Littler the China. Questions this week: Games for Girls Pachinko Enjoyable Punishment Mechanics PlayStation US Launch Anniversary Speedruns Edited by Blain Brown. Music ‘Idol’ from Ane-San for the PC Engine.
Sun, August 09, 2015
Ep. 103 - Muffin Monster
Join the ThinkForce today! Questions this week: Costume Changes Satoru Iwata’s Faked Death Talking Heads Stop Making Sense The Motion Picture Soundtrack The Video Game Water Bottles and Sunny D Firefighting and Concept Games Looks Alone Airport Levels Film Licenses: Mad Max Edition Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Main Theme’ from Mighty No. 9.
Sun, July 26, 2015
Ep. 102 - Who Suzuki?
Don’t ask me about the Insert Credit numbering scheme. - Blaine Questions this week: Best Meal at E3 Shenmue 3 Kickstarter Pseudo 3D Driving Game Social Darwinism PriceCharting.com circa 2012 Cheap Good Bad Games Beverages in Japan Low Score Boy Shockingly Good Looking Saturn Games Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Replay’ from Virtua Racing Deluxe for the 32x.
Wed, December 03, 2014
Ep. 100 - Sonic Tuesday
Celebrate Episode 100 With Contending Sports Persons Frank Cifaldi, Brandon Sheffield, and Tim Rogers. Questions this week: Save the Sega Saturn Sonic Tuesday Reversing the Devaluation of Classic Games Best 2D Controller LIGHTNING ROUND: Name 100 Video Games (01:09:00) Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Gunstar Heroes Super Mario Bros. 3 Panzer Dragoon II: Zwei Princess Tomato in the Salad Kingdom Bug! Cross Wiber: Cyber-Combat-Police Black ICE\White Noise Trevor McFur in the Crescent Galaxy Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Landstalker: Kōtei no Zaihō Shining Force II Crusader of Centy Uniracers Princess Crown The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past Bonk's Revenge Barkley, Shut Up and Jam: Gaiden Final Fantasy IV Silhouette Mirage Phantasy Star IV Plok Saturn Bomberman Crash Bandicoot Elevator Action -Returns- Einhänder Pokémon Pinball (Game Boy Color) Panel de Pon Jumping Flash! SEGA Superstars Tennis Code Name: Viper The King of Fighters 2001 Dr. Chaos Herzog Zwei NiGHTS into Dreams... Beneath a Steel Sky Harlan Ellison: I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream Gunhead Wing Commander: Privateer Grim Fandango Sōkyūgurentai L.O.L.: Lack of Love Chulip Moon Little King's Story Crazy Taxi Sengoku Turb Cyber Troopers Virtual-On Oratorio Tangram Space Funeral Street Fighter Alpha 2 Gold Mother 3 Spelunky OutRun 2 Ninja Five-O Vice: Project Doom Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Skitchin' Road Rash 2 Berzerk (PS2) Cannon Fodder Return Fire Xenoblade Chronicles Little Samson Clash at Demonhead Streets of Rage 3 Ufouria: The Saga Mr. Gimmick Final Fight 3 Blaster Master KickMaster Devil's Crush NBA Jam Tournament Edition Demon's Crest Landmaker Shatterhand Low G Man: The Low Gravity Man Dynamite Headdy J.J. & Jeff Gunstar Super Heroes Ys: Book I & II Golden Axe Warrior Alex Kidd in Miracle World Asuka 120% Limit Over Monster World IV New Adventure Island Battle Garegga Super Ghouls 'N Ghosts Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals Layer Section Treasure Island Dizzy Thunder Force VI Darius Gaiden Bloody Wolf Demon Sword Ninja Spirit Taz-Mania (Sega Game Gear) EarthBound Super Magnetic Neo Porky Pig's Haunted H
Sun, October 26, 2014
Ep. 99 - Nephulous Cliche
Final Fantasy Ruined Everything. Questions this week: PSX RPGs Favorite Secrets Things That Should’ve Been in the Game Who’s That Polygon? Games of 1999 Balance Exploration and Shooting Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Super Smash Bros. for 3DS and Wii U – E3 2013 Theme (Recreated)’ by YouTube User GuardianSoul.
Thu, October 02, 2014
Ep. 98 - Delightfully Dead, with Vito Gesualdi
Nobody Gets Laid in Middle Earth. Questions this week: This Week in Video Games Shadows Stealth Kiss N64 Games Convince Frank to Play Destiny Games of 1998. Best Games for the N64: Super Mario 64 Sin and Punishment Star Fox 64 Goldeneye Majora’s Mask Star Wars Shadows of the Emipre Ocarina of Time Pokemon Snap Body Harvest Diddy Kong Racing Ogre Battle 1080 Snowboarding Perfect Dark Paper Mario Excitebike Rogue Squadron Bonus: Yoshi’s Story Tetris Sphere Star Wars Pod Racer Aidyn Chronicles Hybrid Heaven Mario Party 2 Best Games of 1998: Mega Man Legends Half Life Grim Fandango StarCraft Metal Gear Solid Fallout 2 Baldur’s Gate Heart of Darkness Suikoden 2 Xenogears Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Rusty Bucket Bay’ from Banjo-Kazooie Performed by YouTube User DSCAccount.
Mon, September 08, 2014
Ep. 97 - Crazy Taxi Arrow, with Christian Nutt
Frank is in Portland and Dead. Questions this week: Weekly Update The Engagement Line Favorite 1989 Console Games of 1997 Best Games of 1997: Final Fantasy VII Castlevania: Symphony of the Night Mega Man Legends Asuka 120% Limited Silhouette Mirage Shining Force III Final Fantasy tactics Starfox 64 Grandia Sonic R Breath of Fire III Fallout Ultima Online Street Fighter III: 2nd Impact Gran Tourismo Street Fighter III Music ‘Theme of Nana’ from Asuka 120% Limited.
Mon, August 25, 2014
Ep. 96 - Two Darn Fish Playin’ Street Fighter
Insert Credit Drives into an Open Grave. Questions this week: Swing Copters Design a Vertical Scrolling iOS Game Subverting the Game World Night Trap Kickstarter Games of 1996 IQ Test – Unknown Developers Wikipedia List of Video Games Considered the Best Part Two. Best Games of 1996: Panzer Dragoon II Zwei Super Mario 64 NiGHTS Dragon Force Quake Pokemon Red/Blue Daggerfall Diablo Resident Evil Tomb Raider Wild Arms Super Mario RPG Crash Bandicoot Bubsy 3D Duke Nukem 3D Music ‘Map Theme (ElecV 100bpm Remix)’ by YouTube User ElecV Voom based on Gargoyle’s Quest and ‘Town Theme’ from Wild Arms.
Sun, August 17, 2014
Ep. 95 - Episode Nineteen Ninety-Four
Insert Credit Ranks the Games of 1994. Official Best Games of 1994: Sonic 3 & Knuckles (GEN) Castlevania: Bloodlines (GEN) Streets of Rage 3 (GEN) Contra: Hard Corps (GEN) Final Fantasy III (SNES) Shining Force II (GEN) Super Metroid (SNES) The King Of Fighters ’94 (NEO) Metal Combat: Falcon’s Revenge (SNES) Virtua Racing (32X/GEN) Mega Turrican (GEN) Mega Man X (GEN) SOS (SNES) Tempest 2000 (JAG) The Lost Vikings (SNES) Blackthorne (SNES) Pac-Man 2: The New Adventures (GEN) Cybermorph (JAG) Shadowrun (GEN) Sparkster (SNES) Honorable Mentions: Dynamite Headdy (GEN) Crusader of Centy (GEN) Demon’s Crest (SNES) Urban Strike (GEN) Donkey Kong Country (SNES) Vortex (SNES) Special thanks to Insert Credit community member Alexander Tulett for transcribing this list. Music ‘Final Battle’ from Sparkster.
Thu, August 07, 2014
Ep. 94 - Episode Ninety-Five
Insert Credit Explores the Heart of Dogness. Questions this week: Single Adjective Titles Stupider than Watch Dogs 30 FPS Preferrers This Week in Video Game News Best Game with the Word Dog in the Title Modern Celebrity Video Game Wikipedia List of Video Games Considered the Best Part One LIGHTNING ROUND: Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Strike the Earth!’ From Shovel Knight and ‘Attagirl’ from OneChanbara.
Fri, July 18, 2014
Ep. 93 - Multivarious Ravioli, with Patrick Miller
We discuss Evo with guest Patrick Miller. Questions this week: Personal Highlight of Evo Evo Trading Cards Tier System Low Tier Tournaments More Representation Girl Characters Creative Evo Prizes PlayStation One Controller Predictions for Evo 2015 LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Review – Games of Evo Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘The Next Door’ From Super Street Fighter IV and ‘Reach Out To The Truth’ from Persona 4 Arena.
Fri, July 04, 2014
Ep. 92 - Podcastiversary II – Substance
We Probably Won’t But We Might. Questions this week: Next Fad After Zombies Prison Games Ideal Roommate Is the PS Vita Worth Buying Yet? Pinball Best Dog Hideo Kojima vs. Peter Molyneux Improv Zone Citizen Kane of Video Games LIGHTNING ROUND: Title Design – Video Games Based on Titles of Episodes of this Very Podcast Edition Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Tetris The Movie’ by YouTube user Plasma3Music Remixes and ‘4 Minutes Before Death ~ Variation’ from Ghost Trick Phantom Detective.
Fri, June 27, 2014
Ep. 91 - Flip the Bard
Insert Credit Spins those Nordic Tracks. Questions this week: Steam Sale 2015 Third Place Game Dev Death by Impact Get Hit to Win Friends Preferences Most Lost Custom Soundtrack Far Cry 4 Edition Assassin’s Creed Series Assassinated LIGHTNING ROUND: Title Design – Decepticons Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Tuffy Theme’ from Tuffy the Corgi and the Tower of Bones, ‘Vast Plain Grasslands (Day)’ from Wario Land 3, and ‘8-Bit Chicken Dance’ by Newgrounds User Fineas.
Fri, June 20, 2014
Ep. 90 - Six or Seven Minutes
We rank the games of E3 2014. The List: Evolve Bloodborne Super Mario Maker Phantom Dust No Man's Sky Cuphead Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker Destiny Grim Fandango Scalebound Forza Horizon 2 Splatoon Halo 5: Guardians Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare Assassin's Creed Unity Battlefield Hardline Yoshi's Woolly World Sunset Overdrive Ori and the Blind Forest Hyrule Warriors Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Casino Calavera’ from Grim Fandango.
Fri, June 13, 2014
Ep. 89 - Bon Appétit
Who Crotches the Crotchmen? Questions this week: Frank Recap Make E3 Less Boring A Line in a Game Movie Worst Levels Alternate History Games Greatest Failings of Game Engines Alien Developers Misunderstanding Sequels Improv Zone Minor League Gaming LIGHTNING ROUND: Hyper-Specific Japanese Genres Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Race Around the World’ from Castle Crashers, ‘Labyrinth Zone’ and ‘Marble Zone’ from Sonic 1, ‘Aiden Pearce (Main Theme)’ from Watch Dogs, and ‘Aban Hawkins Theme’ from Aban Hawkins and the 1000 Spikes.
Thu, June 05, 2014
Ep. 88 - Arctic Blast, with Jonathan Kim
One of Those Skullguys. Questions this week: Best Sega Games Outside of the Genesis Library Kanto Careers Best Crowd Xbox One and PS4 Revisited Personal Robot Maid Fighting Game Directors Cool Cartoons LIGHTNING ROUND: Design an Original Skull Girl Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Lament’ and ‘Maplecrest Stage’ from Skullgirls and ‘8-Bit Chicken Dance’ by Newgrounds User Fineas.
Fri, May 30, 2014
Ep. 87 - Mario Is Dead
Now Featuring Brandon Sheffield. Questions this week: Better with No Friends Genres that are Dead Console War Crimes Games You Hate Childhood is Dead Mario is Dead Flappy Bird Re-Release Nintendo Wi-Fi is Dead The Kabbalah of Video Games LIGHTNING ROUND: Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Wily’s Castle (Recreation) – Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U Music Extended’ Recreated by YouTube user BrawlBRSTMs3.
Fri, May 23, 2014
Ep. 86 - World of Yourcraft, with Michael Kerwin
Eighty-Sixing. Questions this week: Year of Luigi Most Impressive Minecrafts Oculus-Facebook Billion Person MMO Failed Peripherals Custom Soundtrack – Candy Crush Saga Avengers License Fastest Video Game Ever Made The Arcade Transition Describe to Your Mom – Takeshi’s Challenge LIGHTNING ROUND: Team Battle – Gauntlet Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Executor’ from Space Invaders Extreme DS, ‘8-Bit Chicken Dance’ by Newgrounds User Fineas, ‘The Fastest Thing Alive Fan Full Version’ Remixed by YouTube User kapacitado, and ‘Congo Jungle Stage’ from Super Smash Bros.
Wed, May 14, 2014
Ep. 85 - Beyond Good Souls
One Quarter Broadcast On Location from a Miniature Golf Course. Questions this week: Video Game Legends Console Buying Games Old and New Motorcycle Gang Best Fashion Game Developer How To Ensure Zero Sales of a Game Which Games Have Changed Design for the Better Most Radically Redefined Public Image Video Game DJ Mock Market LIGHTNING ROUND: Best To Worst Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Bonus Level’ from Cool Spot and ‘Living in the City (Instrumental Version)’ from Sonic R
Thu, May 01, 2014
Ep. 84 - Cat Physics
Who Are You Callin’ a Flappy Bird? Questions this week: Exclusivity Harm Design the Godzilla Tie-In Game Title Insults Should FPS or Shmup Games Be Called ‘Shooters’ Underutilized Real World Physics Psychiatrist Games New God Game Concepts Video Games as Rewards Smart Bad Video Games LIGHTNING ROUND: Team Battle Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Swear’ from Mr. Driller, ‘Main Theme’ from From Dust, and ‘Level 1 Theme’ from Marble Madness.
Thu, April 24, 2014
Ep. 83 - Content Video Game Nerd, with Mathew Kumar
Insert Credit Is The Prequel to Die Hard. Questions this week: PAX Best Debut Games Why Was the Halo Composer Fired from Bungie? Game Most Interesting to Lose Most Dreamy Games Do You Fight for Fun or for Glory? Six Universal Emotions Can Someone Please Explain Goat Simulator? Favorite Game Makers (It’s Spelled ulillillia) LIGHTNING ROUND: Title Design Tim McGraw Games Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Trailer Soundtrack’ and ‘Main Theme’ from Goat Simulator.
Thu, April 17, 2014
Ep. 82 - Did I Say Gogo?
Insert Credit Knows Nobody Cares About Robin. Questions this week: Saving Video Game History with Frank and Brandon GDC Recap Best 3D Single Player Hand-to-Hand Combat FFVI – Name All Party Members and Add a Fifteenth Games Other Than Dark Souls 2 Lowest Percentage Completion Single Player Game Restaurant Staffed by Video Game Professionals Worst and Most-Listened-To Song in a Video Game Did Facebook and Oculus End the Kickstarter Dream? LIGHTNING ROUND: Game Rater Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Ape Escape Theme’ Ape Escape for the PlayStation Move (Japanese Version), ‘Victory Fanfare’ from Final Fantasy VI, ‘Bubble Bobble Theme’ from Bubble Bobble Covered by Lara de Wit.
Wed, March 26, 2014
Ep. 81 - BGOAT, with Rob Meyer
We determine the Best Competitive Game of All Time. Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Rainbow Road’ from Mario Kart 7 Performed by YouTube User DSCAccount.
Thu, March 13, 2014
Ep. 80 - No More Cheeroes
Insert Credit Has Got That Bad’un. Questions this week: Good Postmortem Discussion Chronotrigger Recruiting Largest Critical Blindspot Akira Toriyama Dragon Quest Taking Smartphones Seriously Themed Arcade Design a Non-Violent Video Game Using the Doom IP How to Become a Better Level Designer Redesign a Video Game Character LIGHTNING ROUND: The Crichtoning Round Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Sonic Boom’ from Sonic CD, ‘Victory Fanfare’ from Final Fantasy VI and ‘Level 1’ From Jurassic Park for the NES.
Sat, March 08, 2014
Ep. 79 - Weird Ninja Turtles Fan Fiction
Insert Credit is Both the Sin and Punishment. Questions this week: Less Blank and More Blank Most Fun Projectile Catching Custom Soundtrack Video Game Olympic Representatives Improv Zone Most Unpleasant Console Game to Work On Personalities to Create a Game Microtransactions in Nintendo Games Willy Wonka and the Video Game Factory LIGHTNING ROUND: Rank the Devil May Cry Games Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Beach Stage’ from Flying Power Disc – Windjammers for the Neo Geo and ‘Monday (Glitch Mob Remix)’ by Nalepa from the DmC Devil May Cry Trailer.
Wed, February 26, 2014
Ep. 78 - Hot Tunes and Cool Chooms
Insert Credit Has Zoop and It’s Jaffe’s Fault. Questions this week: Great Ideas Already Done Irrational Games Twitch Plays Pokemon Monthly Video Game Comic Books Most Back-Handed Compliment Your Video Game Boss Lightning Round Bottom Line Review Arcade Edition Lightning 2 Who Would Win in a Fight LIGHTNING ROUND: Lightning Returns Returns Elevator Pitch Co-Op Edition Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘The Ego Room’ from Remember Me and the Zoop Soundtrack.
Sun, February 23, 2014
Ep. 77 - The Crybox, with Adam Rippon
Insert Credit Celebra las Consolas de los Muertos. Questions this week: Brandon at D.I.C.E. Save Nintendo Successful Breaks Out of the Comfort Zone Mobile Birds Fictional Vehicles Video Game Holidays Good Castlevanias Nullify One Trademark, Copyright, or Patent Smash Mouth’s All Star of VGM LIGHTNING ROUND: Best to Worst Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘Terra’s Theme’ from Final Fantasy VI Performed by YouTube User DSCAccount and ‘Lonely Rolling Star’ from Noby Noby Boy.
Sun, February 16, 2014
Ep. 76 - Iceberg Podcast, with Jim Stormdancer
Insert Credit is the Opposite of Cool Spot (That’s a good thing, trust us). Questions this week: Disparate Worlds Tactics The Series for WayForward Dreamcast VMU Accidental Greatness Surprises in Games Edutainment LIGHTNING ROUND: Opposite Day Edited by Blaine Brown. Music ‘In The Mountain’ by Yuzo Koshiro from Stickman Is Back Genesis, ‘Title Theme’ from Forever Kingdom (Evergrace 2), ‘Wild Child & Manmos’ by Yasuyuki Suzuki and Emiko Suganuma from Tail of the Sun PSX, and nearly the entire Frog Fractions Soundtrack by Twinbeard.
Sun, February 02, 2014
Ep. 75 - Simply Impossiblag
Insert Credit would win in a fight against Past, Present, and Future. Questions this week: Easily Fixable Game Ruiners No More Localization Best to Worst Three Laws of Video Games Favorite Stage One Boss Themed Arcade Cover Stories for a Video Game Celebrity Magazine LIGHTNING ROUND: Title Design Edited by Blaine Brown. Music “Boss 3” and “Stage 4” from Gunhouse. Gunhouse is available now for PS Vita and PlayStation Mobile!
Thu, January 09, 2014
Ep. 74 - Insert Credit Annual #2
The second installment of an annual series wherein we determine what may be empirically be considered the Best Game of All Time. The List: P anzer Dragoon II Zwei NiGHTS into Dreams Castlevania : Dracula X Gunstar Heroes Super Mario Brothers Manica Mansion: Day of the Tentacle Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals Phantom Dust Sonic & Knuncles Ghosts in the Shell Gears of War II Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter Zelda II: The Adventure of Link Thunder Force IV Asuka 120% Limited Over Ouendan II Ufouria: The Saga QWAP Marble Madness A Mind Forever Voyaging Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Plain Asia' from the album Arrow Rain from the game Imperishable Night, 'Mario Land Overworld Theme Remix' uploaded by YouTube user shadowmario23, and 'Stage 2' from Marble Madness for the NES.
Thu, December 26, 2013
Ep. 73 - GOTY 2013
We rank the best games of 2013. The List: The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds Gone Home Attack of the Friday Monsters Ridiculous Fishing 868-Hack The Last of Us Shin Megami Tensei IV Kokuga Paper Please Antichamber Dive Kick Kentucky Route Zero The Stanley Parable Super Mario 3D World Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Fire Emblem: Awakening Candy Box! Pokémon X and Y BioShock Infinite Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance LIGHTNING ROUND: Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Insert Credit GOTY Serenade 2013' by Alex Jaffe.
Wed, December 18, 2013
Ep. 72 - The Longest Blink
Broadcasting a podcast broadcast pre-recorded live from development heck. Questions this week: What's the best fake language in a video game? Why do so many games that escape development hell end up a disappointment, and which games escape that fate? Which third-party developers would you most like to see making the next Zelda game? Design a game that takes into account the player blinking. How embarrassing is the PAX Diversity Lounge? Custom Soundtrack: Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Which game creators have the most contempt for their own creations? A deep cable television network wants the three of you to produce a nightly 4 hour programming block of your own design. LIGHTNING ROUND: Themed Arcade Again Again Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Lorule Overworld' and 'Lorule Field 2' from The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds for 3DS.
Wed, December 11, 2013
Ep. 71 - Dead Chimera
Insert Credit Doesn't Wanna Be The Guy. Questions this week: What games would you want to do a single credit run on? How much are video games like what you imagined they would be like in the future when you were a kid? What are your "sick day" video games? What are the best games that can no longer be played or acquired? Custom Soundtrack: Final Fantasy VII What is needed to make a good masocore game? LIGHTNING ROUND: Playing Favorites: Holiday Edition Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Haunted Graveyard' from Super Ghouls 'n Ghosts SNES, 'Dream Dreams' from Christmas NiGHTS into Dreams Remixed by OCRemix User by Dale North, 'Maya Fey - Turnabout Sisters' Theme 2001' from Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney DS Remixed by OCRemix User OA, and 'Xmas MGS Boss 4' from Merry Gear Solid 2 PC by Arthur Lee.
Wed, December 04, 2013
Ep. 70 - Endless 100 Meter Dasher
Trying to Make the Bleak Future a Little Bit Better. Questions this week: If a plague killed everybody in the game industry except you, your friends, and five people of your choice, who would be safe? Has a game series ever produced a better sequel for less money? Design a video game to be played for 24 hours straight without stopping. Complete this sentence -- "There are two kinds of people who play video games:" What are some creative but home-safe insults for multiplayer? You're going out for lunch with a date who wants to eat at a restaurant from a video game. Where do you take her? What licensed music would you put into Gears of War? What is the most independent video game? Who's the most competent video game princess? LIGHTNING ROUND: Title Design - Tom Hanks Movies Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Main Theme' from Cave Story PC and 'Begin', 'Home Waters (Down)', 'Stormy Seas (Down)', 'Arctic Floes (Down)', 'Maelstrom (Down)', and 'Alternative End (Unused)' from Ridiculous Fishing iOS.
Wed, November 27, 2013
Ep. 69 - Big Ol' Game Burger
Tim Rogers Hosts The Jerry Bruckheimer Michael Bay Double Funeral. Questions this week: What's your favorite video game format? What are you most thankful for re: video games? When did you get your first television? When is a Batman game "Batman enough"? Is video game music dead? Theme Arcade Who do you take a heart, liver, and kidney from: Mario, Sonic, Bonk? LIGHTNING ROUND: Rank The Series Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Adventure' by Disasterpeace from Fez PC, 'Base Theme' from Contra NES, 'Ending Theme' from Super C NES, 'Area 3' from Operation C GB, 'Stage 1' from Contra III The Alien Wars SNES, 'Stage 4' from Contra Force NES, 'The Hard Corps Blues' from Contra Hard Corps Genesis, 'Jungle Conflict' from Contra Legacy of War PSX, 'Mission 1' from Contra Adventure, 'Stage 1' from Super Contra X NES (The Unlicensed Game), 'Fortress' from Shin Contra PS2, 'Main Theme' from Neo Contra PS2, 'Stage 1' from Contra 4 NDS, 'Boss 2' from Contra ReBirth Wii, 'Final Boss' from Hard Corps Uprising XBLA and PSN.
Wed, November 20, 2013
Ep. 68 - Hotter Than Reality
Insert Credit Is A Crate Full of Mysteries. Questions this week: What IP based on its name alone could raise $200,000 on Kickstarter regardless of team? Why would anyone need a machine that you connect to a TV and control with physical buttons? How have video games manifested in your dreams? A genie transforms the entire world to have the aesthetic of a video game, but you get to choose which one. Who would win in a fight between a super robot designed by Sony, and a super robot designed by Microsoft? Are there good racing games where the camera isn't directly behind your car? What are the best death animations? If we want to play games with our far-away friends turn by turn, what are our non-Zynga options? How would you make Captain N: The Game Master: The Movie? What are some games you should never play? LIGHTNING ROUND: Games You Should Never Play Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Opening Credits' from Space Quest IV and 'Main Theme' from Super Mario 3D World.
Tue, November 12, 2013
Ep. 67 - Fire, Water, and Quiet Revenge, with Mathew Kumar
Insert Credit Is Chock-Full of Fruit Ions. Questions this week: What would it take to get you to back a Kickstarter and retain interest in it? What would you do if you got a new console one week earlier than everyone else? What can we say to our dads when they insist video games are a waste of time? Who are the Mozart and Salieri of video games? What innovative evolution conditions would you include in the next Pokemon game? If you were dividing a diet of good video games into four food groups, what would they be? Provide examples. In what instances have you found yourself actively suppressing the desire to play more of a particular video game? What's the story with those video game trade schools you see ads for sometimes? LIGHTNING ROUND: Title Design - Batman Stories Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'K.K. Cruisin' True Remix' Remastered by YouTube User Mesmonium Based Off of the Song 'Cruisin'' from Animal Crossing City Folk for the Wii and 'Title Theme' from NBA Jam for the SNES.
Tue, October 29, 2013
Ep. 66 - A Pink to the Last, with David Hellman
Insert Credit Presents Boobs in the Sand - Championship Edition. Questions this week: Who's your favorite c-list villain from a video game? Design the free-to-play game that makes everyone get over their hatred of free-to-play games. Why are video games fun? How would you define your relationship with video games? What video games are the most personally empowering? What is the biggest argument you've had about a video game? If an elecromagnetic storm knocked out all electronics for 30 years, what would gamers turn to for entertainment? What is the most poisonous mainstay of video game development? Have you ever felt like video games have left you behind? LIGHTNING ROUND: Shame Famitsu Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'The Infinite Teatime' from Jeff and Casey Time and 'Undercurrent' from Braid.
Wed, October 23, 2013
Ep. 65 - The Porn Episode, with Ian Adams
Insert Credit Loves a Good Lady in a Shirt. Questions this week: What video game are you the most baffled actually got made? What were the best looking games of the pre-NES era? When is a video game remake or remaster different enough from its predecessor to be eligible again for award consideration? Your publisher has demanded that you punch up the dialogue for your 3D platforming game, and have been given three options. The writing samples seem to channel DnD, other video games, and Monty Python, including direct quotes. Which person do you choose? How many games is that bit.trip runner guy in? How will future game designers invoke nostalgia for the games of the 00s? What are your fondest memories of the Nintendo Wii? Which video game character do you believe would hate you personally the most? LIGHTNING ROUND: Playing Favorites Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Impetus' from Bit.Trip Runner and 'BGM 1' from PAC-MAN Championship Edition DX.
Mon, October 14, 2013
Ep. 64 - Sexy 2DS and Naked Chess
Insert Credit Makes You a Jill Sandwich. Questions this week: Does the intended commercial reach of a game has any meaningful impact on it as a creative product? What are some topical video game costume ideas for Halloween? What are the differences between the European and the American video game scenes? Who or what is the Yoko Ono of video games? Could a non-massively multiplayer video game put out a new chapter every week? When it comes to assessing an experimental game, how much credit should it get for trying something interesting, even if it fails? What is the best vest in a video game? Deadly Premonition is getting a 350 page companion app. What other games should get this treatment? What have video games gained from chess, and what more can they stand to gain? LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Review Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Angry Birds Theme' from Angry Birds iOS Covered by Pomplamoose and 'Theme of the Last Battle' from Professor Layton and the Last Specter DS.
Wed, October 09, 2013
Ep. 63 - BSNESGOAT
The Best Super Nintendo Games of All Time. The List: EarthBound Chrono Trigger Super Mario World Dragon Quest V Lufia II: Rise of the Sinistrals Secret of Evermore Mega Man X Final Fantasy IV Super Metroid Metal Combat: Falcon's Revenge Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island Metal Warriors Final Fantasy VI The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past Contra III: The Alien Wars Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars Secret of Mana Kirby's Dream Course Final Fight III Super Mario Kart Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Sinistral Battle Theme' from Lufia Curse of the Sinistrals DS.
Tue, October 01, 2013
Ep. 62 - Dinosaur Sexual Energy
Insert Credit Welcomes First Time Listeners. Questions this week: Did anything actually happen at TGS? What have you gained from this latest excursion to Japan? Who should be the most excited about the Steam controller? What adjustments should be made to the Legend of Zelda formula? How can smaller game companies fight back against the giants? IMPROV ZONE: Frank and Brandon are meeting for their first date. Tim, their guild leader, has invited himself and is oblivious to their relationship. Were there any promises you were amazed a game WAS able to keep? Who's the best king in a video game? What was Hiroshi Yamauchi's impact on video games? LIGHTNING ROUND: Title Design - Art as Games Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Overworld Music' from Dragon Quest V for the SNES and 'Battle Theme' from Dragon Quest V for the DS.
Tue, September 17, 2013
Ep. 61 - Grand Theftcast
We talk GTA V. Questions this week: What's the closest we've gotten to the Holodeck from Star Trek? Create a compelling narrative and background for a female protagonist in an add-on to GTA V. How would you compare the GTA franchise to the Yakuza franchise? What honest jobs would you like to see in the next GTA? If you and your friends were playing GTA in elementary school, what myths and exaggerations would you expect to hear about the games? Would you consider GTA to be a mature franchise? What other film genres can you see Rockstar taking on? If GTA V was the first game someone was playing in the series, what reasons would you give them to revisit previous games in the series? What's the difference between the violence in GTA IV and GTA V? LIGHTNING ROUND: Rockstar Report Card Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Loading Theme' from GTA IV for the Xbox 360 and 'Loading Theme' from GTA San Andreas for the PS2.
Tue, September 10, 2013
Ep. 60 - Veneer of Sophistication, with David Abrams
Building Staircases on Top of People's Heads. Questions this week: What are some defining moments in your game playing history that have stuck with you? What games apart from Animal Crossing and The Sims allow you the most freedom to express yourself through interior design, and how will this subgenre evolve? What's the best Twine game you've ever played, and what Twine game would you most like to make? On a scale of 1-100, how much more or less likely are you to play a game after the creator describes it as "erotic"? What's the best jetpack in video games? If you had to sink one billion dollars into a video game, what would it be like? What feature or features does a video game have to include for it to immediately register on your "to play" list? What games aren't annual franchises, but you wouldn't mind it if they were? What are the most vegetarian friendly video games? LIGHTNING ROUND: Pitch Meeting Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Message from Nightopia' from NiGHTS into Dreams for the Sega Saturn and 'Ally Attack' from Fire Emblem Seisen no Keifu for the Super Famicom.
Tue, September 03, 2013
Ep. 59 - The Rise and Fall of Breasts in Zero G
Insert Credit Engineers Sex with a Robot Orb. Questions this week: How was your PAX Prime time? What happened to Penny Arcade? How has Miyazaki's influence affected video games? What's going on at Capcom right now with the Kickstarter success of Mighty No. 9? Is Saints Row 4 a subversive critique of what's wrong with AAA games, or is it just another example of what's wrong with AAA games? IMPROV ZONE: Brandon, you are the passionate screenwrite on the Sonic the Hedgehog movie who believes in the source material. You're meeting with the producer and the A-List actor playing Robotnik. Neither has ever played a game before. You're given the funding and crew to create a documentary about any subject related to video games. What is it about? LIGHTNING ROUND: Playing Favorites TV Edition Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Dr. Wily's Stage' from Megaman 2 for the NES performed by YouTube user DSCAccount and 'Corneria' from Star Fox for the SNES.
Wed, August 28, 2013
Ep. 58 - Movie Theater Popcorn Money
Insert Credit is Slick and Hand-Holdable. Questions this week: After Madden 25, other video game series could benefit from putting the number of games they made into the title? (01:30) What game has the best title music? (09:05) Will Unity's support of 2D mean more good 2D games? Should people outside of development care about this? (19:05) When is Nintendo going to give up on the second screen? (33:39) What retro game if brought back in 1080p would make you drop $300 for a Wii U? (53:44) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Title Theme' from Valis III for the Sega Genesis.
Wed, August 21, 2013
Ep. 57 - Climb the Madden
You Can't Drink Coffee in the Lightning Round. Questions this week: How can someone most accurately assess whether a game will be worth playing during the first 5 minutes of booting it up? Are there any visual styles you can pinpoint between Saturday Morning Cartoon and hyper-realism that more video games should be using? What's the best thing you've seen from Gamescom, and what do you hope to see from it in the coming days? The premise of Batman: Arkham Origins is that 8 assassins have been hired to kill him. If you were hiring 8 video game assassins to kill Batman, who would they be? How will Gone Home impact the future of adventure games? Think about your favorite video game that proved to be a commercial failure mostly due to poor marketing. How would you have gone back in time and run it differently? What games were born out of jokes? Which fighting game features the most interesting super move mechanics? What is the Superman IV: The Quest for Peace of video games? LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Review Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Bloody Tears' from Castlevania Judgment and 'Bowser's Galaxy Generator' from Super Mario Galaxy 2.
Wed, August 14, 2013
Ep. 56 - Creedence Clearwater Saga
Insert Credit loves arcade pizza. Questions this week: What's the saddest a video game ever made you? What are some notable attempts games have made to allow you to play multiple characters at once in the past? Conceptualize the Breast Game of All Time. What are some games that you're glad you've played, but wouldn't recommend to others? How can we use Twitch to set up a better and more popular 24 hour video game stream than Salty Bet? You've been sealed in an arcade in the year 1983 until you break the world record on any arcade game available. Which do you go for? Every prison inmate in the United States is issues a video game system with 3 games. Each of you gets to choose one of them. Should the Xbox One have stood their ground on any of their now retconned features? What is the actual deal of Candy Crush Saga? I thought it was social media trash but people have been playing it in earnest. LIGHTNING ROUND: Apps to Apples Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Sewer Surfin'' and 'Big Apple 3am'by Mutsuhiko Izumi from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles IV: Turtles in Time for the Super Nintendo.
Wed, August 07, 2013
Ep. 55 - All About Vacuum Cleaners, with Leigh Alexander
We Take You on a Tour of Bethesda Studios. Questions this week: What is the video game equivalent of a luxury car? Are we paying enough attention to GaymerX? Which often overlooked multiplayer game do you think deserves more of a following in the competitive community? What is the best use of rope in a video game? You have to rob a Las Vegas casino, using a crack team of 5 video game characters. But you can only afford characters who have been in fewer than two sequels. Who do you choose? What would it be like if films were reviewed as if they were video games? What new varieties of Pikmin should be in the next game in the series? Is EverQuest Next good enough to overcome a healthy bias against MMOs? What story would you tell kids who want to get into video games to scare them into a real job? LIGHTNING ROUND: Title Design Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Treasure Hunter Lyle' by Motoaki Takenouchi from Landstalker for the Sega Genesis and 'Fighting Dancer' by Eri Sugai from Lady Stalker for the Super Famicom.
Wed, July 31, 2013
Ep. 54 - Married with Your Money
Insert Credit Tip: You Could Google That But Maybe You Don't Want To. Questions this week: What's your favorite browser flash game? What's your favorite implementation of a bow and arrow in a video game thus far? What tips can you give aspiring jerks to irritate game makers to their breaking point? Design an open world sandbox game based on the golden age of cartoons. Which video game sequels to the best job of revisiting the settings of previous entries? Is it time to buy a PlayStation Vita? What are some untapped ideas for marriage proposal rom hacks? In an alternate universe 2013 where Nintendo went bankrupt after the Wii failed, who would they sell their IPs to? On what occasions will you spend $50 or more on a single video game? What is the Happy Madison Studios of video games? LIGHTNING ROUND: Playing Favorites Edited by Blaine Brown. Music 'Song of Storms' By Koji Kondo from Ocarina of Time N64 Jazz Version By SoundCloud user travislien and 'Gene's Rock-A-Bye' by Masafumi Takada & Jun Fukuda from God Hand PS2.
Thu, July 25, 2013
Ep. 53 - Insert Blasstacre, with Christian Nutt
Insert Credit is the viscous syrup of reality. Questions this week: TIM: What would Yuji Hori's Sonic the Hedgehog be like? (04:33) What are the implications of Nintendo acquiring Atlus? (11:00) Design a video game for Google Glass. (18:07) What are the best multiplayer games for a person with one arm? (24:22) KYLE ROBINSON: What is the game you're most proud of beating without a strategy guide or walkthrough? (30:51) What is the difference between an artistic game, and a pretentious game? (38:27) What is the best 4th game in a series? (47:56) What would Disney Infinity have to announce to get you interested? (54:58) What are the worst games to play with the volume off? (01:01:15) LIGHTNING ROUND: Elevator Pitch (01:05:50) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music: 'Mass Destruction' From Persona 3 FES PS2 and 'Trainer Battle (Kanto)' from Pokemon HGSS DS.
Thu, July 18, 2013
Ep. 52 - Demon Negotiation
PlayTastin' some Edward James Oatmeal. Questions this week: Which game from the video game title generator are we going to design? Which game do you feel you could write a book about? In an alternate timeline where 8 bit video games existed in the 1940s, what games would there be in America as propaganda for the war effort? What was the second-best year for video games? Other than yourselves, which fringe video game developers would you like to see at the helm of a AAA video game? What is the best defensive item in a video game? How would the game publishing industry be different if it were run like the recording industry? Design a video game to test the aptitude of government officials. Who is the Pete Best of video games? LIGHTNING ROUND: Apps to Apples Edited by Blaine Brown. Music: 'To Make the End of Battle' and 'First Step Towards War' from Ys I and II Eternal Story PS2.
Wed, July 10, 2013
Ep. 51 - Why Not Batman?
Insert Credit will immediately consume a chicken leg from a trash can. Questions this week: What was the best year for video games? If California were to sink into the ocean tomorrow, how would it affect video games? Which long-abandoned video game trope to you feel is long due for a comeback? How may the concept of bosses translate into nonviolent video games? IMPROV ZONE: Satoru Iwata answering shareholder questions. Rank these games from best to worst: Microsoft Flight Simulator, Rock Band, You Don't Know Jack. What is the best kitchen in a video game? What is the taking a picture in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa so it looks like you're holding it up of video games? What was the highlight of Molyjam? Which video game character would you want to team up with Batman? LIGHTNING ROUND: Playing Favorites Edited by Blaine Brown. Music: 'Pursuit ~ Cornered (Variation)' from Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney DS and 'Pursuit ~ Lying Coldly' from Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth DS.
Wed, July 03, 2013
Ep. 50 - The Great Mattsby, with Chris Plante
Insert Credit is content with viewing a jpeg of the iceberg. Questions this week: How will Zynga evolve under the man behind the Xbox One? Which Nintendo 64 game best utilized the Z trigger? Which pre-existing IP would be the best fit for an adaptation by the Civilization team? Would you rather play 1,000 hours of Fire Emblem or 1,000 hours of Advance Wars? How would you run an ARG to promote the actual release of Half-Life 3? What makes Cavia so great? Which video game best captures each decade of the 20th century? What is the Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier of video games? On which topics would you trust Mario for advice? LIGHTNING ROUND: Design by Title Edited by Blaine Brown. Music: 'The Vanishing Sky' from Bullet Witch Xbox 360 and 'Metallic Mario' from Super Mario 64 composed by Koji Kondo.
Wed, June 26, 2013
Ep. 49 - Podcastiversary
All things Insert Credit. Questions this week: For the listeners who missed its glory days, tell us more about the original Insert Credit. Introduce a new acronym-based term into the video game lexicon. What games have impacted you the most? What would the Insert Credit dating sim be like? IMPROV ZONE: You're a couples counselor, the couple is fighting about their video game preferences. If you were all permanently exiled from the video game industry, what would you do with your lives? Design a video game about writing about video games. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What are your favorite moments of the show? Let's decide our next ranking episode on air right now. LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Review: Developer Edition (01:06:08) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music: 'Rydeen' by YMO and 'Bout Theme' from Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!! NES.
Wed, June 19, 2013
Ep. 48 - Obtain E3, with Christian Nutt
Insert Credit ranks the most exciting games from E3 with guest Christian Nutt. The List: Super Mario World Titanfall D4 Mad Max 1001 Spikes Super Smash Bros. Knack Ys: Memories of Celceta The Wonderful 101 Destiny The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker Ryse: Son of Rome Octodad: Dadliest Catch Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain The Witcher 3 Final Fantasy XV Battlefield IV Mirror's Edge Catalyst Killer Instinct Watch Dogs Edited by Blaine Brown. Music: 'Aban Hawkins Theme' from Aban Hawkins and the 1000 Spikes XBLIG.
Wed, June 05, 2013
Ep. 47 - BGGOAT
What's the best Sega Genesis game of all time? The List: Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Landstalker Gunstar Heroes Shining Force II Bare Knuckle 3 Thunder Force IV Sonic 3 & Knuckles Ranger X Castlevania: Bloodlines Contra: Hard Corps Phantasy Star IV Road Rash II Monster World 4 Rocket Knight Adventures Alien Soldier Shinobi III: Return of the Ninja Master Gain Ground Shining in the Darkness Shadowrun Vectorman Edited by Blaine Brown. Music: 'Bare Knuckle Blitz' from the Streets of Rage Series remixed by WillRock from OCRemix, 'Emerald Hill Zone' and 'Chemical Plant Zone' from Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Genesis.
Tue, May 21, 2013
Ep. 46 - Durango Unchained, with Patrick Miller
Consolation Prize: Buzzword Hand Grenade. Questions this week: Is the Xbox One a video game console? Is this thing huge? Is it just me or is the Xbox One controller pretty great? Let's address the name. Can the Xbox One see into your dreams? How many Emmys will Steven Spielberg win in his first of what is sure to be many seasons of his Halo show? Will the Xbox One change the way we play with dogs in video games forever? What notes did Satoru Iwata take on the Xbox One presentation? Complete this sentence: the Xbox One will be the ___ of video games. Edited by Blaine Brown. Music is from the official Xbox One Unveil Video.
Wed, May 15, 2013
Ep. 45 - Listen Jerk
No Lightning Round Because Frank Doesn't Feel Like It. Questions this week: With the original Wii, Nintendo got the family together in the living room. How does Nintendo get the whole family into the bathroom? Brandon Boyer announced a conference called "Horizon" to highlight beautiful games. What alternative conference will we need in 2 years once it becomes as big as E3? Google.IO has new features -- geofencing, sensors for how you're traveling, and customized Google Maps. Can we use these features to make a fun game? Let's talk about our favorite speedruns. Syfy is released a TV/MMO hybrid called Defiance. How would you go about creating consistency between these? What's the future of selling games to hotel guests? Let's design games that would actually be fun to play on an ariplane system. Namco just announced a Pac-Man game based on a show based on the video game. What other franchises should come full circle that way? Come up with a serious game educating people on misophonia. Edited by Blaine Brown. Music: 'The Moon' from Duck Tales NES remastered by My New Soundtrack and 'White Castle Town' from The Secret of Evermore SNES.
Wed, May 08, 2013
Ep. 44 - Straight Trippin' with Cool Shoes
Insert Credit is a class of characters with character classes. Questions this week: With the release of the new GTAV trailers, let's talk about what games feature the abilities to switch on-the-fly between playable characters. The new Xbox is rumored to feature linked achievements that can be rewarded across several titles. How do you foresee this being utilized? Disney gave EA exclusive rights to Star Wars game production. Which studio under EA's auspices should make them? How can The Sims 4 improve upon previous entries in the series? IMPROV ZONE: Brandon, you work at the game retail section of a department store in 2003. Tim, you're a nervous 14 year old, trying to purchase DOA XBV while your mom, Frank, is distracted but periodically keeps checking on you. Craft a themed Humble Bundle for Steam. What the hell is a MOBA and why should I care? Does Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon possess our particular brand of preferred hotness? Sony has hired you to design the competitor to Itadaki Street for the PS4. You can use any characters you want, but must use every feature of the controller. LIGHTNING ROUND: Apps to Apples (01:02:48) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music: 'MGS3 Theme' performed by YouTube user DSCAccount and 'Hidden Village' from the Twilight Princess OST.
Wed, May 01, 2013
Ep. 43 - Slenderman with Googly Eyes
Higher number of trucks than your average show. Questions this week: What game would you most like to play exclusively while getting your hair cut? What video game adaptation of a film being released this summer would you most like to work on? What would be the ideal premise for a video game set in Oakland, California? Which game studio has the healthiest social conscience? What would we end up with if we fused a western RPG franchise to Studio Ghibli for a reverse Kingdom Hearts? The Nintendo DS features a game called My Stop Smoking Coach. What should be happening in this game? After objectivism and patriotism, what will be the next easy low hanging target for the BioShock series? Which Belmont is best? What categories would you add to the GamePro formula of rating by graphics, sound, control, and Fun Factor? LIGHTNING ROUND: Mascot Pitch (01:02:00) Edited by Blaine Brown. Music: 'Realm Overworld' performed by YouTube user DSCAccount and 'Run' by Danny Baronowsky.
Thu, April 25, 2013
Ep. 42 - Go Big Action or Go Home Action
Suplexing the Biggest Willy and Getting the Most Dew Done. Questions this week: Extoll the virtues of vehicle-based deathmatch multiplayer. Name a few categories you would add to the Guinness Book of World Records: Gamer's Edition In Final Fantasy VI, Sabin is famously capable of suplexing a train. Enumerate some of the greatest feats of human strength in game characters. If not a game developer, what do you suppose Tomonobu Itagaki wanted to be when he grew up? What would be the best game to set in a 1:1 replica of our solar system? What is the 7 Year Itch of video games? Choose 4 video game symbols to appear on your Insert Credit coat of arms. If there was a King of Video Games, what would their duties be? According to the Kubler-Ross model, the 5 stages of grief, are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Which games best embody each of them? LIGHTNING ROUND: LP 2 VG (01:09:30)
Tue, April 16, 2013
Ep. 41 - Twenty-five Percent Hog
Questions this week: Which developer would you like to see get their hands on Star Wars video games? What's the difference between a fun video game and an entertaining one? Which number game in a series is usually the best one? How would you fix Dynasty Warriors? Design a video game that you can safely play while driving. Can you guys talk about the Wii, now that it's at the end of its life cycle? Which video game features the best leveling up system? Venusaur, Charizard, Charizard, Pikachu: KMF/Employ? Who is the unluckiest video game character? The year is 199X. The console wars are in full flame. Nintendo has hired you to offer a rebuttal campaign to "Sega Does what Nintendon't" LIGHTNING ROUND: The Jestons Meets The Flintstones Bowling. (01:00:30)
Tue, April 09, 2013
Ep. 40 - Based on an Internet Poll, with Patrick Miller
Insert Credit talks about games with guest Patrick Miller. Questions this week: What is the no-fly underwear of video games? What are the implications of Microsoft going to the Always Online business model? Each of you gets a song in a Parappa the Rapper video game. What is it about? EA was recently voted the worst company in America. Is it even the worst video game company in America? Which video game premise features the highest stakes? What would Keita Takahashi do with 90 billion dollars? Slippy Toad, Peppy Hare, Falco Lombardi: KMF? Who would be the first 5 inductees into a video game music hall of fame? LIGHTNING ROUND: Would You Rather (53:17)
Wed, April 03, 2013
Ep. 39 - Not David Hayter
Questions this week: What are the highlights of GDC that aren't covered by mainstream game media? Who would you like to hear in David Hayter's place to play Solid Snake in Metal Gear Solid V? What are the worst things you can do when remaking a classic video game? Try to make it on TV by writing a video game themed spec script of a currently airing TV show. IMPROV ZONE: GameStop manager interviewing Brandon and Duke Nukem. If Electronic Arts did April Fool's publicity stunts, what would they be like? Review BioShock infinite as if you were bribed just the right amount above your dignity threshold to do so. How would Nintendo be different if Gunpei Yokoi were alive and with us today? LIGHTNING ROUND: Apps to Apples (55:45)
Tue, March 19, 2013
Ep. 38 - Toad vs. Peach, with Mike Mikka
Insert Credit talks about games with guest Mike Mika Questions this week: What's the best fishing minigame? Which FEMALE video game characters make the best role models? Other than Donkey Kong, what games feature the best single screen level design? How does one enter the world of rom hacking? How would you adapt the works of HG Wells into video games? What would be GOD HAND's equivalent to Final Fight's Street Fighter II? What is the mustache finger tattoo of video games? If you could only play Capcom games or Sega games for the rest of your life, which would it be? If Hell is personalized for each of its denizens, what would it be like for game developers? Who is the best video game dad? LIGHTNING ROUND: Elevator Pitch (01:10:25)
Tue, March 12, 2013
Ep. 37 - Enter the Drakengard
Questions this week: What do you expect for Drakengard 3? (01:10) Do the benefits of EA's Always Online model outweigh the risks? (07:35) In many games, after you defeat an enemy, it disappears. Where does it go? (13:55) If you could eliminate one common lazy game critique from reviewers at large, what would it be? (20:10) Who would win in an actual fight among the Super Smash Bros. cast? (26:45) Assume video game music cover bands are awesome. The three of you start a videogame music cover band. Which songs do you cover, and what instruments do you play? (33:35) Best dog? (39:45) Describe Tetsuya Nomura's ideal date. (46:05) How real is video game addiction? (52:45) Which video games provide the best role models? (01:00:13) LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Review (01:06:50)
Thu, March 07, 2013
Ep. 36 - Video Games' Greatest Mystery
Questions this week: Do you forgive games for being wacky because they're video games? What video game music would you put in a wedding playlist? Who's the best narrator in a video game? What is the mark of a video game that lends itself best to fanfiction? What video game ad campaign do you personally find the most offensive? What's the best level in a Mario game? Who would win in a fight: Raiden from Metal Gear or Raiden from Mortal Kombat? I've never played a Tomb Raider game. Is there any reason to start now? If you ever have kids, what boundaries would you draw for their video game playing? LIGHTNING ROUND: Elevator Pitches (01:01:00)
Wed, March 06, 2013
Ep. 35 - Podcasting Sucks
Guest Host Frank Cifaldi. Regular members Tim Rogers, and Brandon Sheffield (also Jaffe in the end). Questions this week: Design a game to save the Atari Jaguar. Which video game features the best item shop? What needs to happen for game quality to start correlating directly with game sales? If you could get away with stealing one hardly noticeable animation from a game of your choice, what would it be? If you could only play one genre or format of games for the rest of your life, what would it be? Design an iOS game where the central mechanic is your remaining battery life. Which video game character would be the ideal roommate? Diversify the catalog of purchasable items with Microsoft points. What kind of Tycoon games haven't been made? Who is the Larry the Cable Guy of video games? LIGHTNING ROUND: Reimagine Shovelware (01:13:55) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Tue, March 05, 2013
Ep. 34 - Orbistacular, with Andrew Toups and Bennett Foddy
Just finished watching the PS4 press conference? We can tell you what to think of it! Questions this week: Which Sony executives were the coolest, and which were the creepiest? What does one wear to a video game press conference? How many polygons are in a soul? Why would anyone ever use any of these PS4 social features? Do people still care about controller rumble? Is the PS4 truly "by game creators, for game creators"? Can Watch Dogs do big good game tape? How do you get someone excited about an FPS? Was it a mistake to call it the PlayStation 4? Edited by Andrew Toups .
Thu, February 28, 2013
Ep. 33 - The Long Con
3D printing peripherals, Final Boss analysis, and Jerry Lewis analogies await you in this episode. Questions this week: What was the most painful hour of a video game you've ever played? (02:49) PK MOMS: Design an educational game for 5th graders that teaches them not to be assholes on the internet. (09:03) Is game criticism becoming more daring? (15:33) How would you run your video game convention differently than others? (21:54) What makes one Roguelike better or worse than another? (28:19) Which video game character would have your highest Enemy rating on OK Cupid? (34:00) What separates a final boss fight from a regular boss fight? (40:35) How would you make a game with a worse metascore than 8/100? (46:55) How might future games use a 3D printer? (53:31) What is the The Day The Clown Cried of Video Games? (57:55) LIGHTNING ROUND: Elevator Pitch (01:03:35) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Thu, February 21, 2013
Ep. 32 - It'sa Me-Time
Avast! Romantic subplots, machinima, and fantasy character classes off the port bow! Questions this week: FRANK: What are the categories for the Insert Credit Awards? (01:11) RONALD WU: What is the best love story or subplot in a video game? (07:46) If American football is the best designed professional sport, what is the most poorly designed professional sport? (14:16) If you were to make a machinima series today, what game would you use? (22:56) What secret powers might video game hobbyists possess? (28:25) How would the Persona series be different if it was set in college instead of high school? (34:55) What is the absolute best character class in fantasy games? (41:12) What would you do with several million dollars to develop a game to promote scientology? (47:52) Which studios are the best at game localization? (54:20) What game has the best voice acting? (01:00:25) What would you do with a Being John Malkovich doorway into the head of Shinji Mikami? (01:01:32) LIGHTNING ROUND: Magnum Opus (01:08:00) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Thu, February 07, 2013
Ep. 31 - Mein Krampft
Crossovers! Halo skulls! The definition of genre! All and more are discussed on this week's episode of the Insert Credit Show! Questions this week: FRANK: What would it take for you to buy a new console? (01:50) How do video games affect people worse than guns? (09:39) Where is the synergy between Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem? (16:19) Who is the Ozzy Osbourne of video games? (23:03) IMPROV ZONE: It's E3, and you're talking Shigeru Miyamoto out of his room. (29:22) Is the word "Genre" used appropriately in video games? (36:01) JOHN SIMPSON: Design a game for the Star Trek holodeck. (45:40) Which games do the best job of justifying character death? (51:48) What kind of skulls would you implement in the next Halo? (58:11) What game was the most difficult for QA testers? (01:04:37) LIGHTNING ROUND: Present Your Concept (01:10:55) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Sun, January 27, 2013
Ep. 30 - Electro-Lester the Unlikely
This week on the Insert Credit Show, I come one step closer to realizing my destiny as the Drew Carey of Video Games. Join us on our bold attempt to add story to our show’s gameplay as we tackle the following topics. Questions this week: Deleting one video game from your memory (02:08) A Club Nintendo Makeover (10:45) Ralph Nader vs. Video Games (17:18) The deal with Team Fortress 2 and hats (23:42) Improv Zone: Two doting parents (Rogers, Cifaldi) support their nationally ranked teenage Call of Duty player (Sheffield). (29:57) Pinball Wizardry (37:12) First Person Non-Shooters (46:32) Game wiki management (53:02) Pulling game villains from the public domain (59:22) Manipulating the touch-screen interface without your fingers (01:05:42) LIGHTNING ROUND: Directors Breaking Into Video Games (01:12:35) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Sun, January 20, 2013
Ep. 29 - Endless Walker, with Kirk Hamilton
Kotaku Features editor Kirk Hamilton joins us to talk about the definition of a power-up, video game hairstyles for your girlfriend, and why Capcom hates Mega Man. Questions this week: BioWare’s Gay Planet (02:50) Super Mario World as a Modding Community Playground (09:38) Electronic Arts president John Riccitiello vs. United States vice president Joe Biden (15:56) Modern pop artists in game music composition (22:51) Game-Inspired Hairstyles for your Girl/Boyfriend (29:10) Title schema for future Pokémon games (35:46) A report card for Platinum Games (42:20) The best power-up in a video game (and what constitutes a power-up) (52:12) Why Capcom hates Mega Man (58:33) How to inflate your game’s metascore (01:05:01) LIGHTNING ROUND: Elevator Pitch (01:11:27) Edited by Andrew Toups . Music for this episode includes Sleater Kinney’s “Oh!” and Pizzicato Five’s “Trailer Music” and “It’s a Beautiful Day”.
Sun, January 13, 2013
Ep. 28 - The Insert Credit PS2cular
The insert credit crew eulogizes the Sony PlayStation 2 Computer Entertainment system. Also my dad interrupts. Questions this week: TIM: Which PlayStation 2 games did you first get? (01:39) Other than the obvious increase in hardware capability, how did the PS2 era compare to the PS1? (08:20) If you were 10 years younger, would you have bought a PS2 over the GameCube, Xbox, and Dreamcast? (14:36) How did GTA San Andreas become the best-selling PS2 game? (21:06) What functions can Sony build into the PS4? (27:26) What was the weirdest game on the PS2? (33:49) Is there no room for improvement over the DualShock? (40:02) What will finally doom the PlayStation? (46:53) Has the PlayStation 3 lived up to the PlayStation 2's legacy? (53:18) What epitaph would you write for the PlayStation 2? (59:35) LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Review (01:05:55) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Tue, January 01, 2013
Ep. 27 - Insert Credit Annual #1, with Kris Graft
The first installment of an annual series wherein we determine, at least for this year, what may be empirically be considered the Best Game of All Time. Final List : Super Mario Bros. 3 (NES) Chrono Trigger (SNES) Tetris (Various) OutRun 2 (Arcade) Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike (Arcade) EarthBound (SNES) Mother 3 (GBA) God Hand (PS2) The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (GB) The Secret of Monkey Island (DOS) Half-Life 2 (PC) Another World (Amiga) Sid Meier’s Civilization (PC) Bonk’s Revenge (TurboGrafx-16) Shadow of the Colossus (PS2) Minecraft (PC) Cave Story (PC) Super Metroid (SNES) Final Fantasy Tactics (PS) PONG (PONG) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Thu, December 27, 2012
Ep. 26 - 2012 Retrospectacular
Frank looks back on the defining moment of 2012, Tim tells us about things he would rather eat than play video games, and Brandon is there too. Questions this week: What's your favorite snow level in a video game? (00:55) What was the most memorable moment in video games this year? (07:43) What was the greatest disappointment in video games this year? (14:01) Who won 2012? (20:19) Who was Video Games' Person of the Year? (26:33) Complete this sentence: 2012 was the year of the ___. (32:55) Does the Vita or the Wii U show greater promise? (39:26) What should video games make their New Year's Resolution? (45:52) What will be the game of the year next year? (50:02) Was this a good year? (01:02:30) LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Review (01:09:10) Edited by Andrew Toups . Music from The Zombies (“This Will Be Our Year”) and Neu! (Fur Immer).
Fri, December 21, 2012
Ep. 25 - Grateful Deadly, with Jordan Morris
Jordan, Jesse GO! cohost Jordan Morris joins us to talk about Chun-Li, side question, and Adrien Brody. Questions this week: Video games of Christmas Past (02:27) Fighting games as an Olympic event (09:14) Comedy in Japanese games vs. comedy in American games (15:39) Adrien Brody’s Predators: The Official Game of the Movie (22:06) Santa Games (27:05) What defines a good side quest (33:16) Chun-Li as a sex icon (33:16) Mid-nineties mascot design (46:09) The Grateful Dead of video games? (55:50) A GOD HAND Christmas Miracle (01:00:43) LIGHTNING ROUND (01:04:55) Edited by Andrew Toups . Music: Lemon Demon – BRODYQUEST, Add N to (X) – Metal Fingers In My Body, Add N to (X) – Revenge Of The Black Regent
Fri, December 14, 2012
Ep. 24 - GOTY 2012 Speculationtacular
We asked you for your nominations for the Game of the Year. Now let us tell you why those are all terrible. The List: XCOM: Enemy Unknown Journey The Walking Dead Dishonored Max Payne 3 Tokyo Jungle Far Cry 3 Borderlands 2 Halo 4 Hotline Miami Fire Emblem Awakening Guild Wars 2 Dragon Quest X Gunlord Faster Than Light Mass Effect 3 Tales of Graces ƒ Clash of Clans Edited by Andrew Toups . Music: “Somebody That I Used To Know”, Gotye
Sun, December 09, 2012
Ep. 23 - Antcopter
Another live show means discussion abounds regarding the new SimCity, the Spike VGAs, and the most pretentious video game ever made. Questions this week: Q*Bert , narrated (02:06) Anatomy of a Fake Gamer (05:35) What video games feature the most interesting internal economy? (11:27) What would you like to be able to do in the new SimCity? (17:54) What categories would you add to the Spike TV Game Awards? (24:18) What music would you license for the next GTA? (31:00) Design Wikipedia: The Game. (35:09) How did video games come to be stereotyped as a male activity? (40:26) Which character archetypes could afford to disappear from games for a while? (47:06) What's the most pretentious video game ever made? (53:32) LIGHTNING ROUND: Famous Historical Figure (01:01:28) Edited by Andrew Toups . Music: Francoise Hardy – “Le Temps d’Amour”, Jacques Dutronc – “Les Playboys”, France Gall – “Teeny Weeny Boppie”, and Francoise Hardy – “Ce Petit Coeur”
Sun, December 02, 2012
Ep. 22 - I, Gradius
The Four Guys get together to livestream some real talk about fighting game spinoffs, rail shooters, and the Mayan apocalypse. Questions this week: Brandon’s homework assignment. Which RPG puzzles have you particularly actually enjoyed? (01:20) Why don't fighting game spin-offs work out? (06:00) What are the best ways to implement your phone's GPS into a mobile game? (12:23) Is there any good reason to keep making rail shooters? (17:40) How would you redraft ESRB policy? (24:02) In the context of video games, when is it okay to use the word "epic"? (30:17) What non-video game jobs would prepare you most to work in video games? (36:55) How will the impending Mayan apocalypse affect the video game industry? (44:54) Has there ever been a minigame better than the game it was in? (51:17) Redesign Minesweeper as a Tetsuya Nomura RPG. (57:52) LIGHTNING ROUND: Sacred Cow Barbecue (01:04:10) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Sun, November 25, 2012
Ep. 21 - Grim Fans Dango, with Patrick Miller
Tim, Frank, Brandon and Patrick Miller discuss Skyrim with guns, Tim Schafer's fanbase, and the Fender Stratocaster. Questions this week: What is your favorite game where mistakes are as important as what you do on purpose? (01:50) What will the hallmarks be of the Wii U console generation? (08:07) What games would be better with guns in them? (14:38) How would you design a Capcom franchise restaurant? (20:59) Who would win in a fight between Kratos and Bayonetta? (27:25) When was the exact point in time that talking about video games in public became socially acceptable? (33:20) Which artists would you put on the soundtrack for a Metroid movie? (39:48) DANIEL CLELLAND: What is the Fender Stratocaster of video games? (46:09) What would a game entirely solicited by Tim Schafer's fanbase be like? (52:25) How can we make visual novels more popular in America? (59:00) LIGHTNING ROUND: I'm going to name 12 Japanese pornographic games, and you have to reimagine them as non-pornographic games. (01:08:00) Edited by Andrew Toups . Music, Brainlord: “Natural Cave”, Shuggie Otis: “Purple”, “Sparkle City”.
Sun, November 11, 2012
Ep. 20 - 9 Cent Convenience Fee, with Patrick Miller
Brandon's adventures in the Far East can only mean the return of Patrick Miller! Level editors, the Duckiverse, and swimsuit design are discussed. Questions this week: What exactly defines a roleplaying game? (02:03) JASON YOUNG: Which video games should be used as recruiting devices in the tradition of The Last Starfighter? (08:30) What would Warren Spector's DuckTales be like? (14:46) Which video game features the best built-in level editor? (22:55) You encounter someone who "plays video games for the story." What games can you assume they own? (29:09) What would happen if a pinball table and a jazz band had a million weird babies? (34:17) There has not been a female protagonist in a Rockstar game since GTA 1. Can Rockstar make a game within their wheelhouse with a female lead? (39:48) What would you include in the next Dead or Alive swimsuit pack? (46:15) What is the most difficult type of video game to review? (51:48) LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Reviews: Console Edition (57:10) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Fri, November 09, 2012
Ep. 19 - Interactacular
The Lost Fully Interactive Podcast 19. Questions this week: Who are the best mothers in video games? (02:14) If you had to get a video game neck tattoo, what would it be? (08:28) What is the Rugrats Movie of video games? (14:44) When was the first time you got a boner while playing a video game? (20:54) Who would win in a fight: Seanbaby or Yahtzee? (27:10) What would you put on the soundtrack of a new Idolmaster game? (34:35) Design a video game based on the life of Miley Cyrus. (40:30) IMPROV ZONE: You've just been appointed the President of Video Games. You are addressing the public as your leader, making your inaugural address. (46:58) LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Review (52:48) Edited by Andrew Toups . Music ‘Tristram Village’ from Diablo I and II, ‘Level 1 Theme’ from Marble Madness, and ‘Backyard’ from Rugrats Search for Reptar
Fri, November 02, 2012
Ep. 18 - Gamesptoptp
The Core Three give us the scoop on Polygon, the LucasArts buyout, and preorder bonuses. Questions this week: FRANK: Adapt Sanford and Son into a video game. (01:52) Are we in the Golden Age of video game journalism? (08:55) How effective are preorder bonuses as a marketing strategy? (15:10) What is the best Atlus game? (21:19) Explaining Dishonored to your mom. (27:30) What does Disney buying out LucasArts mean for videogames? (34:51) What expectations can we extrapolate for Portal 3? (41:08) Why the hell are Square Enix mobile games like 15 bucks? (47:25) Who is the PT Barnum of video games? (53:51) What was the deal with that handle on the back of the GameCube? (01:00:19) LIGHTNING ROUND: MathM: Pitch me some games to relay to my dad, David Jaffe. (01:06:44) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Sun, October 28, 2012
Ep. 17 - Halloween SpecDRACULAr, with Vito Gesualdi
Vito Ghostualdi joins Frankenstein Cifaldi, The Grim Rogers, and that other guy to share spooky stories. Questions this week: Which video game franchises could benefit from a Halloween-themed entry? (04:38) Explain the relationship between Count Dracula and Death in the Castlevania series. (10:34) What are some easy video game costume ideas? (17:05) How do you make zombie games interesting again? (23:23) Why is Pac-Man chased by ghosts? (30:37) Come up with a better localized name for the Biohazard series than Resident Evil. (36:55) What would the Insert Credit DOOM .wad be? (43:26) Nemesis, Pyramid Head, Scissor Man: KMF? (49:43) What's the scariest video game ever made? (55:20) LIGHTNING ROUND: Frightening Round (01:02:17) Edited by Andrew Toups . Art and Story by Gilbert Smith.
Fri, October 19, 2012
Ep. 16 - Jump on the Giant Chicken, with Kris Graft
Gamasutra Editor in Chief Kris Graft shares his opinions on region locking, naming your characters, and the battle capabilities of Fat Princess. Questions this week: Christian Nutt’s homework (01:10) What is the deal with regional lockout? (09:53) How may video game enthusiasts tastefully decorate their living spaces to reflect their hobby? (16:11) Let's ruin Halo 4 for our listeners. (22:38) Which games should come pre-installed with the next version of Windows? (29:08) What would video games be like if Dead or Alive fans got everything they wanted? (35:31) XCOM 2012 is to XCOM 1994 as... (43:06) DANIEL CLELLAND: What's the best mounted weapon in a video game? (49:28) Who would win in a fight: Sweet Tooth or Fat Princess? (55:46) Which fictional video game character would you write into the presidential ballot? (01:02:09) LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Review (01:08:34) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Fri, October 12, 2012
Ep. 15 - Not Famous Anymore, with Christian Nutt
Christian Nutt returns by popular demand for discussion of up and coming game developers, the next career move for CliffyB, and promotional t-shirts. Questions this week: Think of a popular video game from the past 6 years that you really dislike, and say something nice about it. (07:39) If you were the curators of The Smithsonian's "The Art of Video Games," what would you put on display? (14:08) Which up-and-coming rookie game developers show the most promise in their future careers? (20) Devise Waluigi's solo video game debut. (26:56) THIS MACHINE KILLS FASCISTS: Design the ideal games for the other panelists, but they can only comment with colder and hotter. (33:24) What's next for CliffyB? (40:40) Which video game would be best adapted into an HBO miniseries? (47:00) What messages would you send back in time to video game companies in 2006? (52:04) When is it okay and when is it not okay to wear a video game t-shirt? (59:08) LIGHTNING ROUND: Name the Review (01:04:37) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Fri, October 05, 2012
Ep. 14 - Train Hard, with Bennett Foddy
QWOP creator Bennett Foddy joins us to talk about stuff. Stuff like Alan Moore, air dropping video games, and an actual Nintendo theme park. Questions this week: How do we get people back into arcades? (02:32) We know what a AAA video game is, but what's an A, AA, or AAAA video game? (08:53) When is DLC worth buying? (15:17) What are the best underwater segments in video games? (21:49) Who is the Alan Moore of video games? (28:07) If you could send 3 portable games on one device to everybody in the world, what would they be? (35:55) What would be the attractions of a real Nintendoland? (42:28) What company should Capcom fight next? (48:51) How would you explain QWOP/Noby Noby Boy to your mom? (55:17) My sister asks: Which video game character would have the most trolls on Twitter? (01:02:20) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Fri, September 28, 2012
Ep. 13 - Shave and a Haircut, with Justin McElroy
Jaffe tries his best not to sound like a psychopath while the host of My Brother My Brother and Me podcast Justin McElroy chats with us about Sony's trophy system, games we got as gifts, and speed running. Questions this week: You've been evicted from your home and are being relocated to a city or town from a video game of your choice. Where do you go? (03:26) What is the philosophical difference between Microsoft's Gamerscore system and Sony's trophy system? (09:38) Who would win in a fight: Sid Meier or American McGee? (15:40) LEONARDO: Do you remember any game you got as a gift that you thought would suck, but was actually pretty neat? (22:00) You have to make a game to appeal to the Brony subculture, but do not have the My Little Pony license. (28:27) Write instructions to Final Fantasy: The Board Game. (36:20) What should our cubicle-bound listeners be playing in their browsers at work while the boss isn't looking? (40:18) Rank these games from best to worst: Mass Effect 3, Borderlands 2, Xenoblade Chronicles, Journey. (46:53) Yahoo Answers question: PlayStation account hacking addiction? I want to stop but I'm too addicted. (52:56) What are the hallmarks of a video game ideal for speedrunning? (59:33) LIGHTNING ROUND: Video Game Name (01:05:50) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Fri, September 21, 2012
Ep. 12 - (#episodename), with Hamish Todd
Action Button Dot Net columnist and Music of the Spheres developer Hamish Todd makes a special appearance to discuss cosplay, surprise sequels, and high luncheon. Questions this week: What do we have to look forward to if the Wii U builds itself as a home for potentially dead franchises? (03:42) If you were judging a cosplay competition, which costumes would be most likely to win? (10:07) Which console featured the absolute best launch library? (16:17) What is one video game that you will never, ever play, and why? (22:33) Who would win in a fight: Doctor Wily or Doctor Robotnik? (28:50) Do you feel your work is appreciated? (36:30) What would a Mario game be like where you played as a Goomba? (43:03) If you could grab the novelization rights to any video game, which would you get, and how would you use it? (49:12) Which video game soundtracks are most notable for their use of uncommonly heard instruments? (55:36) What is the worst idea for a game that has never been released that you've ever heard? (01:01:50) LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Review (01:08:17) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Wed, September 12, 2012
Ep. 11 - Big Head Mode, with Adam Saltsman
The Insert Credit Crew is joined by CANABALT creator Adam Saltsman to discuss the appeal of giant robots, to design a game for my old Nokia cell phone, and to play "Kill, Marry, Boff" Round 3. Questions this week: What is your favorite depiction in a video game of Hell? (03:56) What is it about about giant robots that people find so appealing? (10:11) What can we expect from Grand Theft Auto 20? (15:39) John Romero, Jonathan Blow, CliffyB: KMF? (22:05) JASON YOUNG: Other than Final Fantasy VII, what other games might benefit from a de-make? (28:35) First we lost Nintendo Power, now G4 is going off the air. What's the next video game celebrity death? (36:50) What is your dream video game crossover? (42:55) Pitch me a mobile game for the Nokia cellphone I had in high school. (49:08) Which Valve headliner will have the greatest impact on video games: Greenlight, Steam TV, or Steam's VR headset? (55:26) If Valve is the Pixar of Video Games, then who's the Dreamworks of Video Games? (01:02:20) LIGHTNING ROUND: Who would you cast? (01:08:11) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Fri, September 07, 2012
Ep. 10 - My Neighbor Totilo, with Stephen Totilo
Kotaku editor-in-chief Stephen Totilo debates with us over the validity of video game nostalgia, online comment systems, and the sanctity of the Warthog. Questions this week: All of your games and consoles have been stolen, but you do have a $1,000 GameStop gift card that expires at the end of the week. How do you spend it? (03:14) Which games have most innovatively used the DualShock controller? (09:46) Has a video game ever made you cry? (16:08) What are the most embarrassing comments you've seen on an online video game article? (22:16) What can we the viewers expect from the upcoming Metal Gear Solid movie? (28:36) What are the biggest mistakes to avoid when designing a dungeon? (37:36) How can the Tony Hawk franchise stage a comeback? (43:59) JOEX111: How would you design a great game around a daytime soap opera while staying true to the spirit of the show? (50:15) Create a mixtape of video game music to listen to while driving your car. (56:38) What's the best video game quote to put on your tombstone?(01:03:00) LIGHTNING ROUND: Corporate Slogans (01:04:04) Edited by Tim Rogers.
Fri, August 31, 2012
Ep. 9 - Al Pacino’s Vegas Adventure, with Brent Porter
Action Button Entertainment art director Brent Porter hangs out for some real talk about BioWare, escort missions, and how to make D-Day interesting again. Questions this week: What can horror games do to effectively scare players? (02:36) What is the correct way to establish lore in a video game series? (08:54) ANNA P. What's the best food item in a game? (15:09) Where's the best real world location to set a Metroidvania? (20:46) Is BioWare really the Joss Whedon of video games? (27:02) How can war games make D-Day interesting again? (36:41) Defend the oft-maligned escort mission. (42:59) Which real life sport translates most accurately into its video game counterpart? (49:08) What will the repercussions be once Wreck-It Ralph shatters all of the box office records? (55:31) …and a special Game Show Round! (01:03:30) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Thu, August 23, 2012
Ep. 8 - Panza Vision, with Vito Gesualdi
Hollywood Correspondent Vito Gesualdi pops in to talk about Nintendo Power, Turbo Play, and MAD Magazine. Questions this week: What would you have to say at Nintendo Power's wake? (02:11) Design a game based on Don Quixote. (08:38) How did the "shoot-them-up" genre become so culturally linked to the "moe" aesthetic? (14:57) Who would win in a fight between Gabe Newell and Gabe from Penny Arcade? (21:25) What would you do with the foreknowledge of how the game industry would develop 10 years ago? (27:47) How much would you value the only US copy of Final Fantasy II? (35:47) How can we bridge the gap between those who exclusively play sports games, and people who play everything but sports games? (42:10) Is the OnLive service worth saving? (48:37) What's the best ridablanimal in a video game? (55:01) Aaron Cortelyu: What's wrong with the Souls series? (01:01:21) LIGHTNING ROUND: Come up with as many Mad Magazine title parodies as you can in 3 minutes. (01:07:56) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Fri, August 17, 2012
Ep. 7 - Gamer Grub, with Patrick Miller
Insert Credit regular Patrick Miller joins us to talk about Gamescom, players of video games, and warthog drifting. Questions this week: What distinguishes Gamescom from other industry events? (01:17) Were there any GameCube games with good voice acting? (07:28) What is the best feeling vehicle in a video game? (13:42) MICHAEL STERNS: What are your least favorite industry buzzwords? (19:50) Would you rather play a Pokemon MMO or an Animal Crossing MMO? (26:10) Who is the William Hung of video games? (33:41) Rank all the games in the Halo series from best to worst. (39:54) How can we streamline the character customization process without losing nuance? (46:10) What are some films every gamer must watch? (52:44) Design 8 new Robot Masters for the next Mega Man game. (58:50) LIGHTNING ROUND: Bottom Line Review (01:03:20) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Fri, August 10, 2012
Ep. 6 - Seattle Rhythm, with Christian Nutt
Fresh off his article on The Bouncer, Christian Nutt joins the gang to discuss unkept Fable promises, using the -san suffix in English writing, and Charizard. Questions this week: In game design, where is the line between difficult and unfair? (03:30) How has the beat-em-up genre evolved in the past 20 years? (09:35) Who would win in a fight: Master Chief or Charizard? (15:53) Design a game for the Oculus Rift visor. (21:57) Why is the Tales Of series worth my time if I've played literally any other JRPG? (28:10) What's the prettiest looking video game ever made? (36:36) Cavia was originally founded to make video game adaptations of Studio Ghibli movies. Would that have been a good idea? (42:53) How did you envision the falsely prophesied perfect Fable game? (49:10) LUKE MAXWELL: Why is Dragon Quest X the way that it is? (55:30) What is the most embarrassing article you've ever written? (01:02:05) LIGHTNING ROUND: Spoil as many video game endings as you can in the next 3 minutes. (01:09:22) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Fri, August 03, 2012
Ep. 5 - Tactical Freakout, with Shawn McGrath
This week the Insert Credit gang is joined by Dyad creator Shawn McGrath to discuss weapon design, NPC dialogue, and the rigidity of Johnny Wadd. Questions this week: What is the most fun weapon in a video game? (02:18) In an MMO addiction clinic, what would be used as methadone? (08:36) NORBERT LEVEJSIK: Who is the Johnny Wadd of video games? (10:52) Pitch DYAD as a Saturday morning cartoon. (16:58) What studio would you cede control of Kingdom Hearts to: Atlus, Level 5, or Cavia? (21:40) Can we actually see a good Superman game in our lifetime? (29:42) If you were Doctor Robotnik, how would you finally beat Sonic the Hedgehog? (35:54) Rank these from best to worst: Spec Ops The Line, Marble Madness 2, Shank (42:08) What's the best way to make a living in the video game industry? (48:14) What bands and artists would you recommend to people who primarily listen to video game music? (53:10) LIGHTNING ROUND: You have 5 minutes to write as much dialogue as possible for NPCs in a 90s Japanese RPG. (59:50) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Fri, July 27, 2012
Ep. 4 - Dr Pepper Hot Dog Cafe
Those Three Guys (tim, brandon, frank) return for a fourth helping of no-nonsense questioneering. Join us for a hearty discussion of Metacritic, Monster World, and mouse livers. Questions this week: Is Bonk's Adventure better than Monster World? (03:40) How useful are score aggregation websites like Metacritic? (10:29) To what extent did Sega do what Nintendon't? (16:47) In the year 2027, what will video games be like for cats? (20:31) Is Steam a plague or a blessing? (26:55) Solid Snake, Duke Nukem, Marcus Fenix: KMF? (33:10) NICHOLAS LEIVILLEI: What are the best or worst lessons a video game taught you? (37:46) How would you run a paper and ink video game magazine with unlimited resources? (44:12) Who is the most tragic character in a video game? (50:31) You and your friends are prank calling GameStop. What kind of calls do you make? (57:17) LIGHTNING ROUND: Final Fantasy (01:03:40) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Wed, July 18, 2012
Ep. 3 - Shagargamel
Is your body ready for one full hour of frank, tim, and brandon discussing time as a game design mechanic, the value of the PlayStation Vita, and how to explain Hyperdimension Neptunia to your mom? Because if so then oh man do we have a treat for you! Questions this week: What distinguishes the Ouya from every other attempt to create the Uber Console? (03:11) Which games best utilize the concept of time? (08:06) Who would win in a fight: Arkham City Batman or LEGO Batman? (14:53) What's inside Molyneux's box? (21:19) What is the Seinfeld of video games? (27:02) Write a more robust story mode for a Dead or Alive: Xtreme Beach Volleyball sequel. (33:37) AARON BOAG: Is the PS Vita actually worth buying right now? (39:24) Can love bloom even on shagagamer.com? (45:44) What would the Insert Credit webcomic have been like in 2000? (52:10) Explain Hyperdimension Neptunia to your mom. (58:28) LIGHTNING ROUND: Action Button Style (01:01:25) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Wed, July 11, 2012
Ep. 2 - Citizen Bonk
frank cifaldi, tim rogers, and brandon sheffield once again join us to discuss kickstarter, the history of achievements, and the meltdown of 38 Studios. Questions this week: Is Bonk's Adventure better than Super Mario Bros? (04:35) What are the ingredients of a good boss battle? (11:02) What achievements would you shoehorn into classic video games? (17:16) How can a game be easy without being boring? (23:47) What new Pokemon would you incorporate into the next generation? (30:03) UPIE: Who would win in a fight: the game industry, or the alternative medicine industry? (35:47) The Penny Arcade kickstarter: brilliant, deplorable, or hilarious? (38:40) What video game has the best title? (45:04) What are your impressions of the fighting game community? (51:17) Why should or shouldn't we be terrified by the meltdown of 38 Studios? (57:44) Is a video game's ending really that important? (01:04:55) Which development studio do you wish could return from the dead? (01:05:27) What video game have you put more hours into playing than any other? (01:06:07) What exactly is so exciting about Source Filmmaker? (01:06:38) Edited by Andrew Toups .
Tue, July 03, 2012
Ep. 1 - Happy Birthday, Charles Manson
This week frank cifaldi, tim rogers, and brandon sheffield join us to discuss Hideo Kojima, how to make MMOs fun, and skellingtons. Questions this week: What were some neat features of the Xbox 360, PS3, and Wii that were never utilized to their full potential? (05:22) MMOs: How can we make them fun? (11:09) In the era of GameFAQs, how can easter eggs and cheat codes survive? (17:38) Give an elevator pitch to Nintendo for a new console peripheral. (23:46) What is the next big thing after zombies and vampires in video games? (29:55) Hideo Kojima, Shigesato Itoi, Fumito Ueda: KMF? (36:16) Who is the Charles Manson of video games? (42:11) If you could erase one video game and its influence from the time stream, what would it be? (45:00) How has Metal Gear Solid affectd the video game landscape for better or worse? (51:20) In Resident Evil 6, your character can move around while they shoot. Is this a good thing? (01:00:00) Who would you cast next for PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale? (01:00:40) Voice acting in Zelda: can it happen, can it be good? (01:01:21)
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