Shows
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 391: Final Fantasy Tactics (part four)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we continue our series on Final Fantasy Tactics. This week, we put Tim Longo on the DGC couch for an analytical session about his major conflict about this game. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Near to end of Ch 3 (B), or Ch 2 (T) Issues covered: choice quotes, declarative statements, a favorite Final Fantasy game, the job system, the story-based RPG, history of the early JRPGs, what Brett remembers about the game, Tim...2024-05-291h 05
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 225: Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we finish our series on Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney. This week we talk about the final original case, particularly looking at the growing complexity of the story, and then turn to our takeaways and feedback. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Turnabout Goodbyes Podcast breakdown: 0:48 Phoenix Wright Case 4 59:57 Break 1:00:34 Takeaways and Feedback Issues covered: being novelistic and weaving through multiple narratives, intricate backstories coming together, wanting the macro...2020-08-191h 33
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 224: Phoenix Wright, Ace Attorney (part two)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we continue our series on Capcom's 2001 Japanese GBA title/2005 US DS title Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney. We revisit the history just a bit before diving into this next case, talking about "detectiving" and adventure game tropes (and how/whether they work here), as well as various ways in which the game pushes its mechanics before turning to feedback. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Case 3 Issues covered: a bit of correction and elaboration...2020-08-121h 35
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 213: Animal Crossing: New Horizons BonusWelcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we cap off our revisit of the unique series Animal Crossing with a bonus episode about it's latest installment, Animal Crossing: New Horizons. We talk about the feeling of the new game, the intersection of new mechanics and quality-of-life improvements and how they change the feel of the game, and we give the museum some love in addition to other topics and feedback. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: An hour or so a day! 2020-05-271h 42
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 211: Animal Crossing (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we continue our series on the unique series Animal Crossing. We talk about collecting, changing the world, paying off your second mortgage, the many purposes the animals serve, and the fun the developers seem to have had contributing ideas to the game, among other topics. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: An hour each day! Issues covered: Brett's growing gyroid collection, Gyroid Orchestra, speeding through your second mortgage, expanding player verbs through mortgage...2020-05-131h 10
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 206: Chrono Trigger (part four)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we continue our series playing Chrono Trigger. We hit the story notes first and doing things in your own order before turning especially to where the game goes once we reach "The Fated Hour." Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up into The Fated Hour Podcast breakdown: 0:50 Chrono Trigger 1:08:35 Break 1:09:07 Feedback Issues covered: the chapters at the end, the monomaniacal immortal queen and her daughter, underdeveloped queen nemesis...2020-04-081h 35
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 200: Beyond Earth Bonus and 200th Episode!Welcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we engage in a little bonus talk about 2014's Sid Meier's Civilization: Beyond Earth. We talk about the game's strengths and iterations over Civ III and also the things that particular work for the hosts in the game, before turning to a brief celebration of our episode 200 and some feedback. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: A few hours of Beyond Earth (9 for Brett, 15 for Tim) Podcast breakdown: 0:57 Beyond Earth Discussion 40:31 Break 41:16 Ep 200 and F...2020-02-261h 50
Dev Game ClubCivilization III (part four)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we complete our discussion of Civilization III (and of the Civilization series generally). We talk about Tim bending the game to his will and falling down the game's rabbit hole before turning to takeaways and feedback. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through the Modern Era! Issues covered: Brett just can't play the game, making a very specific game, finding the ceiling of your audience, sticking with the series, interacting with the game...2020-02-191h 21
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 198: Civilization III (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we continue our discussion of Civilization III. We talk about Tim triggering a World War, the slow-down in the mid-game, Brett as a war criminal, and other topics. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up to the Modern Era Issues covered: Rome gets what it deserves, having more vs fewer Civs, running out of time/hitting a point of no return, not knowing what to ask for when you're suing for peace, wanting...2020-02-121h 02
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 197: Civilization III (part two)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we continue our discussion of Civilization III (and of the Civilization series generally). We talk a bit about the middle game generally, why it doesn't catch on with Brett as much, and especially address the layers of game play and how they interact. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through the Medieval period Issues covered: converting members of the population to entertainers, lowering taxes instead, fighting overpopulation, filling out a tech tree to...2020-02-051h 27
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 143: Pokémon Red/Blue (part two)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where this week we begin a new series on 1996 Game Boy classic Pokémon Red/Blue. We talk quite a bit about the early game, the way it solves age-old RPG problems with random encounters, and of course, our current mix of Pokemon before turning to feedback. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up through Saffron City (in theory) Podcast breakdown: 0:45 Pokemon 55:48 Break 56:14 Feedback Issues covered: Bonnie Ross's induction into the AIAS H...2018-12-191h 25
Dev Game ClubInterview with Randy Smith and Greg LoPiccoloWelcome to Dev Game Club, where we in this episode we are lucky enough to enjoy an interview with Greg LoPiccolo, project lead on Thief, and Randy Smith, who was a level designer on the title. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Podcast breakdown: 0:40 Interview 1:00:08 Break 1:00:50 Feedback Issues covered: World Series, how Randy got his start, psychology and programming as substrate for game design, "Suck it down" and toxic masculinity, cold-calling, the attraction of LG games, how Greg got in, the origins...2018-10-311h 07
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 134: Thief (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are in the midst of series discussing 1998's Thief: The Dark Project. We talk about map trade-offs, enemy diversity and choices, the levels we played, music and objectives, and other topics. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up to Undercover Issues covered: "disco is my life," longer Thief: Gold levels, DLC before DLC existed, technical issues and level design, experimenting with what direction to take next, being unable to connect the dots, making assumptions...2018-10-1853 min
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 131: Thief (part one)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we now begin our series about 1998's Thief; as usual, we start by setting the game in its time before diving into a few of its systems and technology requirements. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through Cragscleft Prison Podcast breakdown: 0:41 Thief 53:13 Break 53:45 Feedback Issues covered: reflecting on 1998, first-person shooter games of the time, having different first-person goals, differing pacing, original design goals, high enemy lethality and comparative weakness of...2018-09-261h 26
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 130: Shadow of the Tomb Raider BonusHello, and welcome to a special bonus episode of Dev Game Club, where we talk about the most recent Tomb Raider release, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, talking a little bit about where the reboots came from and the thinking that went into them as well as some of the structural differences between the two. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Some of the first few hours Podcast breakdown: 0:45 Shadow of the Tomb Raider 42:18 Break 42:50 Feedback ...2018-09-191h 14
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 128: Tomb Raider (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we have been playing 1996's Tomb Raider. We spend more time on the levels themselves as well as diving into the AI for human enemies, the sense of space and of pace, and having no idea what to do to find a key. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through Egypt, in theory Podcast breakdown: 0:41 Tomb Raider 1:00:17 Break 1:00:47 Feedback Issues covered: plumbing, level and puzzle size, nonsensical space and St Franc...2018-08-221h 15
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 126: Tomb Raider (part one)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are turning our eyes to 1996's Tomb Raider. In this episode we situate the game in its time, paying particular attention to the challenges of 3D and technology at the time. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through Peru Issues covered: setting the game in its time, 3D acceleration, "at least they got our names right," having to control a bunch of extra stuff in 3D, camera control in Super Mario 64 or Crash Bandicoot...2018-08-081h 01
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 125: Prey BonusWelcome to Dev Game Club, where in this bonus episode we've turned to a clear descendant of Deus Ex, 2017's Prey. We talk about the first few hours of the experience and note some of its systems and world-building, among other thoughts. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: At least up to the lobby Issues covered: post-it notes, allowing mimics, Tim gets excited, another potential forerunner, using the Goo Gun to get to an apparently unreachable area, analysis paralysis, not knowing...2018-08-011h 09
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 124: Deus Ex (part five)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are finishing out our discussion of 2000's Deus Ex. In our fifth episode in the series, we talk a bit about the game's viewpoint(s) and turn to our takeaways. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Finished the game at last Issues covered: Tim's marathon of M:I, the othering of Anna and Gunther as well as Walter Simons and Bob Page, building a sense of place and history, the inhumanity of JC Denton...2018-07-251h 26
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 122: Deus Ex (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we have finally turned our attention to 2000's Deus Ex. In our third episode in the series, we talk about the RPG aspects as far as story goes as well as some obvious influences. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up through the Paris Cathedral Issues covered: mispronouncing the title of the game, bringing in all the story as you get to Hong Kong, level geometry in Hong Kong and getting lost the first time...2018-07-111h 11
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 121: Deus Ex (part two)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we have finally turned our attention to 2000's Deus Ex. In our second episode in the series, we discuss difficulty levels for different styles of play vs augmentation hard choices and some level systems specifics. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up through Hong Kong (in theory) Issues covered: trying to get out of the level when you've been in it a while, difficulty levels and combat vs stealth, the paths not chosen, the interaction...2018-07-041h 10
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 119: Bonus Interview with Matt TateishiWelcome to Dev Game Club for a second Dark Forces special bonus interview edition. We speak with Matt Tateishi, a level designer on the game, talking about the environment around the building of Dark Forces, process, and leaping into the new. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Podcast breakdown: 0:39 Interview 1:03:31 Break 1:04:01 Feedback Issues covered: a brief history of Matt, architecture department at Berkeley, starting as art techs, hourly wages, having your Star Wars bedsheets, Master Chief body pillow, thinking about the use of a...2018-06-201h 33
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 118: SWRC Interview BonusWelcome to Dev Game Club for a special bonus bonus interview edition. Justin Stinnett turns the microphones on hosts Brett Douville and Tim Longo, in addition to Daron Stinnett, to talk Republic Commando. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Issues covered: making a squad seem smart, how to deal with the squad AI, keeping the squad in view, how to control the squad on a console, squad positioning, seeing the sniper, Sev's sense of humor, Fixer's uptight nature, Scorch childishness, making the squad feel even smarter...2018-06-1519 min
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 116: Dark Forces (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are finishing 1995's Star Wars: Dark Forces. We talk a bit about the final levels of the game while punching dragons and then turn to our takeaways. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: We finished the game! Podcast breakdown: 0:44 DF Discussion 59:08 Break 59:38 Takeaways Issues covered: the Kell dragon, entirely too much discussion of dragon types, being unsure what to do, not matching up with the fantasy, puzzle elements in fighting...2018-06-061h 31
Dev Game ClubDark Forces (part one)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are beginning a new series about 1995's Star Wars: Dark Forces. We situate the game in its time a bit and then turn to the first three levels of the game, specifically talking about its level design and a bit about squeezing Star Wars into games. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through The Subterranean Hideout Podcast breakdown: 0:46 Segment 1: Dark Forces 49:50 Break 50:25 Segment 2: Feedback Issues covered: Star Wars character class...2018-05-231h 07
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 113: God of War (2018) BonusWelcome to Dev Game Club, where we are discussing the newly released return to God of War. We talk about the way the game has been modernized for current tastes, and how it maintains the feel of the series. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: First few hours Issues covered: modern design elements, combat feel, level linearity with bits of side secrets, combat/explore, chests, pushing technology, ways you can cheat for performance, pixel density, which GoW games we've played, elaborate...2018-05-161h 12
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 112: God of War (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are finishing our series on 2005's God of War. We talk about when the game leans into the things it's not great at, the sense of epic scale, as well as turning to our traditional takeaways as we end a series. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Finished the game! Podcast breakdown: 0:42 God of War discussion 54:45 Break 55:11 Takeaways and Feedback Issues covered: dying 20 - 60 times, the downward spiral rage...2018-05-091h 24
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 111: God of War (part two)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are on to the second of our series on 2005's God of War. We talk about what a fully scripted camera allows you to do, where it breaks down in implementation, as well as touching on the over-the-top nature of the game and its light RPG elements. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through the Challenges Podcast breakdown: 0:43 Segment 1: God of War 51:40 Break 52:20 Segment 2: Feedback Issues covered: Birthdays, Sierra...2018-05-021h 12
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 109: God of War (part one)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are beginning our series on 2005's God of War. We set the game in its time, an interesting time at the end of a console lifecycle as new machines loomed on the horizon, and then turn to the game itself before hitting feedback. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up to the desert / through Athens Podcast breakdown: 0:44 Segment 1: God of War 50:35 Break 51:06 Segment 2: Feedback Issues covered: the console lifecycle, PS2 inst...2018-04-181h 14
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 107: Space Quest (part one)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we continue to discuss a pair of very early Sierra adventure games, now turning to Space Quest 1: The Sarien Encounter. We talk a little bit more about adventure games and general and talk about some specific ways this game differs from King's Quest, including its use of space. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up to Planet Kerona Podcast breakdown: 0:45 Segment 1: SQ1 37:19 Break 37:43 Segment 2: Feedback Issues covered: humor in adventure ga...2018-04-041h 13
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 106: King's Quest (part two)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we continue to discuss a pair of very early Sierra adventure games, beginning with 1984's King's Quest: Quest for the Crown. Having finished the game, we discuss the ways in which different puzzles work and what aspects are frustrating and how it might all have gotten that way. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Finish King's Quest 1 Issues covered: getting through without hints, remembering puzzles and forgetting stuff, rule-breaking and rocks, leaning into fairy tales...2018-03-281h 12
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 104: Ultima Underworld (part four)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are discussing 1992's immersive sim classic Ultima Underworld. We talk about how the game comes together at the end and the interconnectedness of it all before we turn to our pillars and takeaways. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Finished the game! Podcast breakdown: 0:42 Segment 1: finishing the game 44:23 Break 44:59 Segment 2: Takeways and feedback Issues covered: serviceable weapons, Tim realizes he never beat the game before, reuniting pieces of key...2018-03-141h 34
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 103: Ultima Underworld (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are discussing 1992's immersive sim classic Ultima Underworld. We take a deeper dive into the leveling system and the magic system and talk about the intersection of RPGs and immersive sims and the various analog elements of this game in particular. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Levels 4-6 Issues covered: rotworm stew, taking notes and having too much to sort through, keeping track using the map, space for a legend, cartography, how the...2018-03-071h 06
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 099: Metal Gear Solid (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are in our third episode of our series on 1998's Japanese stealth classic Metal Gear Solid. We talk about a big choice in the game and the things you're not taught, particularly considering how fourth wall breaking it can be, as well as topics like UI choices. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: To Vulcan Raven (II) Podcast breakdown: 0:41 Metal Gear Solid 58:54 Break 59:26 Feedback Issues covered: Brett's carpal tunnel, Decoy...2018-02-071h 32
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 098: Metal Gear Solid (part two)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are midway through our series on 1998's Japanese stealth classic Metal Gear Solid. We talk about frustration, the various bosses, and a bit about one-offs. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up through the torture scene Podcast breakdown: 0:40 MGS 1:03:10 Break 1:03:45 Feedback Issues covered: the history of "snake style," sources of frustration, Brett's psychological makeup, frustration in boss battles, the point of no return, finding the mine detector, using the cardb...2018-01-311h 34
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 097: Metal Gear Solid (part one)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are beginning our new series on 1998's Japanese stealth classic Metal Gear Solid. We first situate the game in its time, including some personal reminiscences of how we first came to the title, before turning to the stealth gameplay, the cutscenes, and other topics. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up through Revolver Ocelot Podcast breakdown: 0:48 Segment 1: MGS in time, Beginning of game 1:03:54 Break 1:04:27 Email/Feedback Issues covered: crawling around i...2018-01-241h 18
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 095: Anachronox (part four)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are having our fourth and final discussion about 2001's quirky Western-built Japanese-style RPG Anachronox. We talk quite a bit about the specifics of the end of the game, with a diversion into ION Storm, and then talk about our takeaways. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through to the end! Podcast breakdown: 0:42 Anachronox! Issues covered: that final battle, splitting up the party, Rho Bowman's adventure on Democratus, Stiletto Anyway's adventure on...2018-01-101h 08
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 093: At Year's End, TwoWelcome to Dev Game Club, where we have a very special, year-end blast where we talk about some top take-aways and interview moments from the past year. And it's been a busy one, with six interviews and ten games discussed. Thanks for joining us this year. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Issues covered: defeating Darth Vader, the complexity of the world and reflecting that in TIE Fighter, taking a twist on the Chosen One, developing the character of Gordon Freeman and ultimately cutting the cutscenes...2017-12-2751 min
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 092: Anachronox (part two)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are in the midst of our discussion about 2001's quirky Western-built Japanese-style RPG Anachronox. We talk about the writing and humor, how those may have developed, and also discuss the characters and their characterization, among other topics. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through Votowne Podcast breakdown: 0:45 Segment 1: Anachronox 50:23 Break 50:52 Segment 2: Feedback Issues covered: etymology of sly boots and other forms of boots, the writing style, broad and referential hu...2017-12-201h 17
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 091: Anachronox (part one)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are beginning our new series on 2001's quirky Western-built Japanese-style RPG Anachronox. We set it in its time, and discuss how we decided to play it and then spend a lot of time on its world-building. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through Bricks Podcast breakdown: 0:40 Anachronox in time, Initial discussion 38:36 Break 39:04 Thanks and feedback Issues covered: Games of the Year, how we came to choose Anachronox, 2001 in PC games...2017-12-131h 10
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 89: Super Mario 64 (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are in the midst of our series on 1996 3D platforming sensation Super Mario 64. Tim intros the 'cast for the first time and we discuss both macro and micro design. SM64 Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up to 50 stars! Podcast breakdown: 0:44 SM64 Segment 42:02 Break 42:33 Feedback segment Issues covered: likening Brett to a car, increasing difficulty of stars within a hub, Brett getting all the stars for a bunch of worlds...2017-11-291h 15
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 086: Silent Hill 2 (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we have made our way to that hotel in Silent Hill 2 and then wended our way homeward. We discuss the climactic events of the game, our theories on who represents what, the multiple endings, and a host of other issues including takeaways and listener feedback. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: To the end of the game Podcast breakdown: 0:43 Segment 1: Discussion of final third 1:07:20 Break 1:07:53 Segment 2: Takeaways and Listener Feedback Issues...2017-11-081h 46
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 085: Silent Hill 2 (part two)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are in the middle of our three-episode series on Silent Hill 2. We spend a lot of time talking about the section in the hospital and the potential meaning or personification of Pyramid Head. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up until the Labyrinth Podcast breakdown: 0:34 Single segment this week! Issues covered: Tim's Halloween costume, picking favorite moments, Pyramid Head first interactive encounter, his reputation, character design, ninja/tabi boots, wading right...2017-11-011h 31
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 083: Julian Gollop InterviewWelcome to this special bonus interview episode of Dev Game Club, where we welcome Julian Gollop into X-COM Base Provolone for a chat. We delve into the genesis of the game, how a publisher saved the game and itself, and many other topics surrounding the development of the game. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Podcast breakdown: 0:41 Gollop Interview 1:05:20 Break 1:05:50 Next time Issues covered: Julian's ludography, genesis of X-COM, adding isometric rendering, Microprose's demands of the Gollops, interceptions, bolting on a strate...2017-10-181h 19
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 081: X-COM: UFO Defense (part five)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are in our third in a series of episodes about 1994's X-COM: UFO Defense. We wrap up our discussion of the game, covering save-scumming and difficulty, and talk about some pillars and takeaways. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Just as much as we could fit in Podcast breakdown: 0:39 Segment 1: X-Com finale 41:51 Break 42:24 Segment 2: Pillars and feedback Issues covered: the terror mission that kicked Tim's butt, getting under your skin...2017-10-041h 25
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 080: X-COM: UFO Defense (part four)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are in our third in a series of episodes about 1994's X-COM: UFO Defense. We talk about our plans of attack for the game, whether the game is reacting to our plans, and how sim games make an argument. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Who even knows anymore? Podcast breakdown: 0:31 Game discussion 39:19 Break 39:45 Feedback/email Issues covered: Tim's death of dysentery, Tim's approach and Brett's approach, reserving time...2017-09-271h 23
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 079: X-COM: UFO Defense (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are in our third in a series of episodes about 1994's X-COM: UFO Defense. We talk about the ways in which procedural generation and written generation interact a bit, as well as detailing our playthrought a bit. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: In theory, 6 months Podcast breakdown: 0:38 X-COM segment 35:05 Break 35:35 Feedback segment Issues covered: opportunity fire cost, reserve time units, how much things cost, how we did on...2017-09-131h 08
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 077: X-Com (part one)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are beginning a series of episodes about 1994's X-COM: UFO Defense. This week, we set the game in its historical context and discuss the beginning of the game. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up through first ground mission Podcast breakdown: 0:38 X-Com Segment 1:06:28 Break 1:06:51 Feedback segment Issues covered: business model of early Wizardry, DOS Box, perils of the back catalog, 1994 in games, turn-based games history, war gaming, X-Com as short...2017-08-301h 40
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 075: Super Mario World (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we currently playing 1991's Super Mario World. This week, we talk about how the difficulty of the game more and how it interacts with the exploration of the space. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through the Forest of Illusion Podcast breakdown: 0:33 Segment 1 (SMW Discussion) 34:35 Break 35:11 Feedback Issues covered: finding a key, picking things up mechanic, directing the player, repeating use of mechanics, picking up and placing objects, difficulty...2017-08-161h 14
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 073: Super Mario World (part two)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we currently playing 1991's Super Mario World. This week, we talk in more depth about the level design and the ways in which its open nature influences difficulty. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through Vanilla Dome Podcast breakdown: 0:29 Game discussion 48:10 Break 48:50 Feedback Issues covered: In-depth discussion of saxophones, respecting the game as a work of art, potential tech issues, character momentum, ways in which 3D platformers might be different, prep...2017-08-021h 06
Dev Game ClubSuper Mario World, part oneWelcome to Dev Game Club, where we are kicking off a new series on 1991's Super Mario World, a SNES pack-in title. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Yoshi's Island Podcast breakdown: 0:40 SMW Discussion 48:36 Break 49:18 Feedback Issues covered: Tanooki suits, the ubiquity of Mario, the console versions of the game, Tim's history with 2D platforming, recognizable characters, overworld presentation, confusion, choosing right rather than left, being able to trust the level progression or not, starting over with...2017-07-261h 32
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 069: Interview with Marc LaidlawWelcome to Dev Game Club, where we are discussing Valve Software's 1998 classic Half-Life. This week we welcome Marc Laidlaw, long-time Valve employee and writer of Half-Life. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Podcast breakdown: 0:40 Interview with Marc Laidlaw 1:04:50 Break 1:05:16 Feedback/Questions Issues covered: getting started at Valve, looking at story in first person games, unshipped game at Valve, getting Quake community people to work on Half-Life, the early plan for the company, finding features by building lots of tests, randomly discussing featu...2017-07-051h 39
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 067: Half-Life (part 3)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are discussing Valve Software's 1998 classic Half-Life. We especially focus on level design but touch also on weapon design and a bit of reuse of weapon progression. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up through Lambda Core Podcast breakdown: 0:40 Discussion segment 1:05:03 Break 1:05:28 Feedback Issues covered: the Russians, level design variety, designer control over geometry, blocking out levels and then beautifying, binary space partition, realistic spaces vs non-realistic spaces, lack of train...2017-06-211h 19
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 066: Half-Life (part two)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are discussing Valve Software's 1998 classic Half-Life. We talk about what works in both the design of the military you fight and about enemy design in the game generally. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Apprehension (up to Residue Processing) Podcast breakdown: 0:35 Soldier AI and Enemy Design 53:12 Break 53:39 Feedback Issues covered: a bit of the history of game console licensing and certification, why Brett is behind on his homework, where the...2017-06-141h 21
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 063: Planescape: Torment (part six)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are discussing 1999 Black Isle classic Planescape: Torment. We talk about the end of the game and some of its pillars. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Finishing the game! Podcast breakdown: 0:37 Segment 1: End of the game 1:00:58 Break 1:01:23 Segment 2: Quick pillars, next time Issues covered: trapped Trias, the Pillar of Skulls, how XP is dispersed, splitting between characters as a natural difficulty modifier, Tim sacrifices Morte... like some kind of mon...2017-05-241h 23
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 062: Planescape: Torment (part five)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are discussing 1999 Black Isle classic Planescape: Torment. We talk about broad story beats, themes of identity and mazes, and the role of side quests, among other topics. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Until you return to Sigil Podcast breakdown: 0:39 PST Discussion 1:03:18 Break 1:03:51 Feedback and giveaway Issues covered: character customization, a little chat about the big beats of the story, the weird conversation with Ravel, Brett is revealed to be...2017-05-171h 44
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 060: Planescape: Torment (part three)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are discussing 1999 Black Isle classic Planescape: Torment. We talk about how the overwhelming nature of the beginning acts might have come about (again), Brett hits a game-breaking bug, and needles are sought in haystacks. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through Ravel's Maze Podcast breakdown: 0:43 Segment 1: PST (2:21 Aw Jeez) 1:08:00 Break 1:08:28 Segment 2: Feedback (1:10:10 Aw Jeez) Issues covered: May Day, how the breadth of quests of Hive might have...2017-05-031h 24
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 059: Planescape: Torment (part two)Welcome to Dev Game Club, where we are discussing 1999 Infinity Engine classic Planescape: Torment. We talk a bit about franchise fatigue, turning tropes on their heads, turning back historical design choices, and discuss some of what we saw as we played. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up through the Undercity Podcast breakdown: 0:37 Segment 1: PST Talk 49:53 Break 50:26 Segment 2: Feedback, next time (51:28 Aw Jeez) Issues covered: Tim's bachelor party (really!), franchise fatigue, turning tropes on their head...2017-04-261h 18
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 058: Planescape: Torment (part one)Welcome to Dev Game Club, which this week begins a new series exploring 1999 Infinity Engine classic Planescape: Torment. We situate it in time both against other games and the D&D license but also especially as the pinnacle of Interplay's Infinity Engine games, and then dive into the first section of play. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through the Mortuary Podcast breakdown: 0:41 Segment 1: History and discussion of play 53:20 Break 53:54 Feedback Issues covered: situating game in t...2017-04-191h 13
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 057: Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (part four)Welcome to the fourth and final episode in our series exploring SNES classic The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. We discuss the end of the game, finding nooks and crannies, various difficulties, and then quickly cover our takeaways. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through the end of the game! Podcast breakdown: 0:35 Segment 1: Finishing Zelda 46:48 Break 47:22 Segment 2: Takeaways, Feedback 1:10:28 Aw Jeez Issues covered: Brett's loop, using a walkthrough to find the pieces of hear...2017-04-131h 21
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 056: Legend of Zelda: Link to the PastWelcome to the third episode in our series exploring SNES classic The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. We discuss what storytelling there is, several of the bosses we fought, the analog nature of combat and also the difficulty curve before turning to some player questions. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up through the Ice Palace Podcast breakdown: 0:33 Segment 1: LttP discussion 25:50 "Aw, jeez" 45:44 Break 46:10 Segment 2: Feedback/email discussion Issues covered: overview...2017-04-051h 15
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 054: LoZ: A Link to the Past (part one)Welcome to the first episode in our series exploring SNES classic The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. We situate the game in time and talk about its long shadow in game development before tucking into the game proper. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through the end of the Eastern Palace Podcast breakdown: 0:30 Segment 1: LoZ 49:38 Break 50:09 Eastern Palace & Feedback Issues covered: Zelda's long history and which of them Brett and Tim played, action...2017-03-221h 24
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 053: Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver (part four)Welcome to the final episode in our series exploring PS1 and PC 3rd person action-adventure game Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver. We delve into the last bits of the game including pluses and minuses surrounding its environmental navigation and puzzles, its voice acting, and then turn to our takeaways and pillars. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Finishing the game! Podcast breakdown: 0:36 Soul Reaver discussion 55:55 Break 56:35 Pillars/Takeaways and feedback Issues covered: controls and directional awareness...2017-03-151h 24
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 052: Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver (part three)Welcome to the third episode in our series exploring PS1 and PC 3rd person action-adventure game Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver. We pick apart the jumping madness that is the Drowned Cathedral, talk animation priority and interruption, and hit up some development thinking to boot. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Through Rahab Podcast breakdown: 0:40 Soul Reaver discussion 55:48 Break 56:25 Feedback and next time Issues covered: continental philosophy, Morlock the ramming boss, substituting in a boss as an...2017-03-081h 12
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 051: Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver (part two)Welcome to the second episode in our series exploring PS1 and PC 3rd person action-adventure game Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver. We delve into character design and how it is supported by character art and animation and pick a bone with lack of environmental direction. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up to Zephon TTAG: 49:28 Podcast breakdown: 0:42 Segment 1: Soul Reaver discussion 56:32 Break 57:00 Segment 2: Feedback Issues covered: year anniversary, gothic horror elements, color choices, silhouette, m...2017-03-011h 18
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 050: Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver (part one)Welcome to the first episode in our series exploring PS1 and PC 3rd person action-adventure game Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver. We situate the game in time a bit and then turn to its storytelling style, its early game, and its primary mechanics. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up until the first boss Podcast breakdown: 0:37 Segment 1: Intro to Soul Reaver 55:45 Break 56:07 Segment 2: Feedback and next time Issues covered: horror influences and origins, historical context, light...2017-02-221h 11
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 049: Ueda Wrap-up and The Last GuardianWelcome to the final episode in our series examining the first two works of Fumito Ueda: Ico and Shadow of the Colossus and turning to the present with some bonus content surrounding The Last Guardian. We talk about the games' pillars and our personal takeaways. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: A bit of The Last Guardian Podcast breakdown: 0:34 Segment: Pillars/Takeaways/The Last Guardian Issues covered: getting all the tails and fruits and making one's way to...2017-02-151h 02
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 048: Shadow of the Colossus (part two)Welcome to the third episode in our series examining the first two works of Fumito Ueda: Ico and Shadow of the Colossus. We discuss Colossus's mysterious world, talk about Agro, the camera, delve into the story, and also recap the eight Colossi that make up the second half of the game. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Final 8 Colossi in Shadow of the Colossus Podcast breakdown: 0:41 Segment 1: SotC discussion 1:03:34 Break 1:04:22 Segment 2: Final Colossi, Feedback Issues covered...2017-02-081h 30
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 047: Shadow of the Colossus (part one)Welcome to the third episode in our series examining the first two works of Fumito Ueda: Ico and Shadow of the Colossus. We discuss Colossus's form, intro, animation, and a number of design elements, including brief recaps of the first eight Colossus battles. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: The first 8 Colossi Podcast breakdown: 0:40 Discussion Issues covered: brief history, high-level structure (boss battles), boss battle-centricity, bosses as story arcs and reward structures in other games, pacing benefits, higher...2017-02-011h 19
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 046: Ico/Shadow of the Colossus (part two)Welcome to the second episode in our series examining the first two works of Fumito Ueda: Ico and Shadow of the Colossus. We discuss bits of Ico's narrative, the holistic and economic aspects of the design, the build-up of tension and mutual support between the characters, the combat, and a host of other issues. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Second half of Ico! Podcast breakdown: 0:33 Ico Issues covered: the source of all future quotes, camera/yorda/scale ho...2017-01-251h 22
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 043: TIE Fighter Bonus, the QA PerspectiveWelcome to a bonus episode examining 1994's Star Wars classic TIE Fighter. We welcome two guests, Reed Knight and Darren Johnson, who worked in QA on the original titles and co-led the QA team on the Collector's Edition. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. TTAJ: 14:24 Podcast breakdown: 0:29 Interview segment 1:10:00 Break 1:10:22 Outro, Next time Issues covered: Tim introduces QA as a discipline, Reed self-introduction, QA being in start credits of Full Throttle, Tim's interviews, Darren self-introduction, early history of Reed and Da...2017-01-041h 24
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 041: Tie Fighter (part 4)Welcome to our fourth episode examining 1994's Star Wars classic TIE Fighter. We discuss the story of the Collector's Edition additional missions and then turn to our takeaways. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Missions 11-13 TTAJ: 1:06:00 (late this episode!) Podcast breakdown: 0:37 Segment 1: Final battles 39:00 Break 39:27 Segment 2: Takeaways Issues covered: story review of last few battles, cloaking technology as verboten in Star Wars license, tying into Endor and the trap at the new Death Star...2016-12-211h 10
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 040: TIE Fighter (part 3)Welcome to our third episode examining 1994's Star Wars classic TIE Fighter. We discuss the story of the first expansion pack, address some criticism when it comes to these missions, and Brett digresses over technology from the day. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Battles 8-10 TTAG (Time to "Aw, geez"): 1:43 Podcast breakdown: 0:35 One segment this week! Issues covered: licensing and the Expanded Universe, the TIE Defender as the centerpiece of a series of battles...2016-12-141h 09
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 039: TIE Fighter (part 2)Welcome to our second episode examining 1994's Star Wars classic TIE Fighter. We discuss the story in greater depth, as well as the various storytelling modes and how they cross over between each other. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Battles 4-7 Podcast breakdown: 0:31 Segment 1: Story and storytelling 50:32 Break 51:00 Segment 2: Feedback Issues covered: expansion packs, setting of the campaign in the Star Wars chronology, adding new technology as a way to expand the game from the movi...2016-12-071h 11
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 038: TIE FighterWelcome to our first episode examining 1994's Star Wars classic TIE Fighter. We talk a lot about the Star Wars presentation, simulation depth and choices, and touch a bit on the story. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Battles 1-3 Podcast breakdown: 0:29 Segment 1, Felis Interruptus 20:35 Quick Break 20:40 Segment 2 Issues covered: six degrees of Bill Bixby, Holland's WWII series, alternate histories, showing the perspective of the bad guys, multiplayer and technical feasibility, Star Wars presentation, cockpits in the fil...2016-11-301h 18
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 037BC : Bonus ContentWelcome to Dev Game Club Bonus Content. We've both played a little bit of The Evil Within and here we lovingly render our verdict in stunning HD. Usually, Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary, but here in Bonus Content we just chat about something descended from one of our main games and talk about the directions it's gone. Podcast breakdown: 0:35 Bonus Content: Evil Within and Feedback 58:27 Bonus Bonus Content from Brett Issues covered: action horror vs slower-paced, text description, gore overload, ste...2016-11-231h 00
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 36: Resident Evil (part 3)Welcome to our third episode examining 1996's survival horror classic 3. We discuss the major story beats of the section, delve into the puzzles, discuss how spaces like these are made, enemies, a whole cornucopia of topics. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up through the Tunnels Podcast breakdown: 0:32 Segment 1: Story beats, Puzzles 54:30 Break 54:54 Segment 2: Feedback Issues covered: C.O.L.D., story beats and "wacky Japanese stuff," meeting Lisa more than once, military industrial complex, Barry's story a...2016-11-091h 12
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 035: Resident Evil (part 2)Welcome to our second episode examining 1996's survival horror classic Resident Evil. We discuss the tight resource management of the game and the spatial logic of the place, amongst other topics. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up to the tunnels (in theory) Podcast breakdown: 0:33 Segment 1: Resources (saves) and Spaces 50:27 Break 51:00 Segment 2: Feedback, next time, links Issues covered: save system, Tim and min-maxing OCD, clearing the map, differences between easy and normal, difficulty settings in games then...2016-11-021h 03
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 034: Resident Evil (part 1)Welcome to our first episode examining 1996's survival horror classic Resident Evil. We discuss many of the features that are evident from the beginning of the game that set it apart from other sorts of 3rd person games of the time. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up until the Residence (in theory) Podcast breakdown: 0:24 Segment 1: History and themes 58:07 Break 1 58:35 Segment 2: Reader mail and next time Issues covered: last episode's interview, removing player empowerment, bold decisions...2016-10-261h 10
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 033: Interview with Tim Cain and Leonard BoyarskyWelcome to our fifth and final episode examining 1997's classic RPG Fallout. We are lucky enough to interview Tim Cain and Leonard Boyarsky, Producer/Lead Programmer and Art Director respectively on Fallout as well as two of the three founding members of Troika Games. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Podcast breakdown: 0:38 Interview with Tim Cain and Leonard Boyarsky! 1:01:10 Break 1:01:35 Geek-outro Issues covered: the Wild West of early studio game development, the meta-installer, making engines in your spare time, tabletop after-hours, abstra...2016-10-191h 09
Dev Game ClubDGC Bonus Content: Wasteland 1&2This is a companion bonus episode to Dev Game Club, a weekly podcast in which Brett Douville and Tim Longo examine classic games and discuss their relevance and impact today. We tie together our episodes about Fallout with a preceding title and a successor in Wasteland 1&2. 2016-10-1420 min
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 032: Fallout (part 4)Welcome to our fourth episode examining 1997's classic RPG Fallout. We finish off the game, discussing our various choices, and then turn to the various pillars we draw from it. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: The base and the Cathedral Podcast breakdown: 0:35 Segment 1: Finishing Fallout 45:12 Break 1 45:50 Segment 2: Pillars and Feedback Issues covered: going back to the Glow, voice acting, sharing assets between various animated characters, criminal underworld quests, the liberation of playing and letting the chip...2016-10-121h 17
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 031: Fallout (part 3)Welcome to our third episode examining 1997's classic RPG Fallout. We examine tactical combat, leveling strategies, encumbrance as a specific mechanic, and also a lot of what we saw and did. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Everything before the base and Cathedral Podcast breakdown: 0:42 Segment 1 -- all of the above 58:07 Break 58:38 Segment 2: Feedback, next time, and teasers Issues covered: weapon offerings, Power Fist empowerment, late leveling, Ian meets his maker, knowing when the kills are...2016-10-051h 05
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 030: Fallout (part 2)Welcome to our second episode examining 1997's classic RPG Fallout. We talk about the lack of the hand-holding in the game, discuss our character builds a bit and talk about the choices we've made so far. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Note: Brett keeps mixing up Junktown with Hub. He blames illness. Our apologies. Sections played: Up until you resolve the Water Chip Podcast breakdown: 0:40 Intro/Segment 1 43:42 Break 1 44:22 What next and Feedback Issues covered: following diff...2016-09-2857 min
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 029: FalloutWelcome to our first episode in our series examining 1997's Fallout. We talk a bit about the RPG renaissance it seemed to kick off and then delve into the first few hours. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up until you reach Junktown Podcast breakdown: 0:37 Segment 1: Relevance 32:11 Break 32:36 Segment 2: Towards Junktown 1:08:46 Break 1:09:17 Segment 3: Listener feedback, next time Issues covered: Brett's workshopping and quotes collection, RPG resurgence in the late '90s, Interplay and other RPG-mak...2016-09-211h 25
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 028: Super Metroid (part 4)Welcome to our final episode in our series examining Super Metroid. We delve specifically into the last couple of boss battles and the concomitant storytelling, and spend some time thinking about our favorite areas. We also talk about the pillars and takeaways of the game. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: End of the game! Podcast breakdown: 0:47 Section 1: Final bosses, storytelling, and Zebes's areas 42:12 Break 1 42:55 Section 2: Takeaways, listener feedback, next game Issues covered: Tim wants to be a...2016-09-141h 14
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 26: Super Metroid (part 2)Welcome to our second episode in our series examining Super Metroid. We talk a bit about what we might do with the series if it were handed to us, and delve deeply into the way Samus fits into the world completely. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up until the Ice Beam Podcast breakdown: 0:33 Segment 1: innovating Metroid and character context 48:13 Break 1 48:45 Segment 2: Skill-based play, bits and bobs, and reader mail! Issues covered: what do you do with...2016-08-311h 16
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 25: Super MetroidWelcome to our first episode in our series examining Super Metroid, our first foray into playing something that is exclusively on console. We first situate the game and the series in importance and discuss the influence of Japanese design before turning to the first couple of hours of the game. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Up until the Charge Beam Podcast breakdown: 0:31 Segment 1: Relevance/Impact 26:47 Break 1 27:23 Segment 2: First part 1:10:30 Break 2 1:10:54 Segment 3: Outro/Next time 2016-08-241h 14
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 23: Warcraft Orcs & Humans (part 4)Welcome to our fourth episode in our series examining Warcraft: Orcs and Humans. We finish off our discussion of the game, discussing the last few missions and turning to our takeways and pillars. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Humans 10-12 and Orcs 10-12 Podcast breakdown: 0:36 Segment 1: Last four missions 32:35 Break 1 33:12 Segment 2: Takeaways, pillars, and next time Issues covered: big army missions, Brett's final strategy: wizards and warlocks FTW!, demons and elementals as hero units, level desi...2016-08-101h 06
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 21: Warcraft Orcs & Humans (part 2)Welcome to our second episode in our series examining Warcraft: Orcs and Humans. We specifically discuss unit introduction and the evolution of the genre and how it does and doesn't parallel tabletop wargaming. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Four more of each campaign -- Human 3-6, Orc 3-6 Podcast breakdown: 0:31 Intro and segment 1 37:11 Break 1 37:31 Segment 2 1:05:08 Break 2 1:05:34 Next time Issues covered: destroying bases, unit introduction as enemies and as friendlies, unit costs as a bar to tr...2016-07-271h 13
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 19 with special guests Dave Grossman and Tim SchaferIn this final interview episode discussing recently remastered LucasArts classic Day of the Tentacle, we welcome two guests, DOTT co-leads Dave Grossman and Tim Schafer! We had a fascinating time talking with the two of them and getting their insights on what they were trying to do and where some of the decisions came from. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Production note: Some of Brett's voice cut out during recording, and so there are a couple places where that is patched up. ...2016-07-131h 11
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 18: Day of the Tentacle (part 3)In this third episode discussing recently remastered LucasArts classic Day of the Tentacle, we finally move on to talk about specific puzzles -- this is a spoilery podcast. Plus, Tim has a moment of psychological devastation as Brett unveils the implications of his approach. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Last third of the game! Finish it off. Podcast breakdown: 0:30 Specific puzzles where we got stuck 38:20 Break 1 38:53 History and its discontents (okay, grab bag) Issues...2016-06-291h 17
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 17: Day of the Tentacle (part 2)In this second episode discussing recently remastered LucasArts classic Day of the Tentacle, we talk about how to move on when you get stuck and speculate about how these games were constructed. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Hard to say; approximately another third of the game (~3 hours) Podcast breakdown: 0:24 Segment 1: How you get unstuck 34:03 Break 34:30 Segment 2: puzzle development, reader mail 1:15:19 Outro Issues covered: Gabe Newell's non-joining of Twitter, what you do when you get...2016-06-221h 15
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 15: Final Fantasy IX (part 5)In this fifth and final episode discussing Final Fantasy IX, we explore Tim's difficulty finishing the game on time, the ending of the game, and the things we take away from it. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: Pandemonium to end of game! Podcast breakdown: 0:32 Segment 1: Finishing the game 35:03 Break 1 35:35 Segment 2: What we take away Issues covered: the difficulty in the final area, sharing a save file, the difficulty of the endings of more than one game...2016-06-081h 17
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 14: Final Fantasy IX (part 4)In this fourth episode discussing Final Fantasy IX, we turn to the latter half of the game and Brett loses his mind over six hours riding chocobos. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: From Treno/Tetra Master Tournament to Pandemonium Podcast breakdown: 0:30 Podcast intro 1:02 Segment 1: Chocobos and World Changes 37:35 Break 1 38:03 Segment 2: Character arcs 1:10:28 Break 2 1:10:53 Reader mail, outro Issues covered: Chocobo Dreams and the whole enormous Chocobo side quest, Kupo Nuts side quest (referenced; mentioning...2016-06-011h 26
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 13: Final Fantasy IX (part 3)In this third episode discussing Final Fantasy IX, we welcome a bunch of new listeners. We return to talking about themes, some of which are evolving, but also pacing and combat balancing. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played: From Black Mage Village to Treno (Tetra Master Tournament) Podcast breakdown: 0:28 Intro & reintroduction of hosts/podcast 11:52 First segment: themes and pacing 39:04 Break 1 39:32 Second segment: literariness, Vivi, Iifa Tree battle, pacing 1:21:48 Break 2 1:22:15 Third segment: reader mail, outro Iss...2016-05-251h 35
Dev Game ClubDGC Ep 11: Final Fantasy IXTurning to our third game, Dev Game Club goes to Japan with the new remastered re-release of Final Fantasy IX on PC. We establish the context for the series both in relation to other FF titles and discuss it in context of its release year of 2000 before turning to talk about what's going on in the beginning of the game. Plus, it's Tim's first time with a JRPG, so we talk about the genre itself a bit too. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary. Sections played:2016-05-111h 18
Dev Game ClubDev Game Club 008: Hitman 2 (part 3)In this third episode of discussing Hitman 2: Silent Assassin on Dev Game Club, we talk about the next six missions in the game in-depth, spending some time talking about stereotypes and controversy surrounding the game. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary.
Sections played:Basement KillingGraveyard ShiftThe Jacuzzi JobMurder At The BazaarMotorcade InterceptionTunnel Rat
Podcast breakdown:0:33 Intro1:40 Segment 1: First three levels this episode54:28 Break 154:37 Segment 2: Other three levels this episode1:31...2016-04-201h 45
Dev Game ClubDev Game Club Podcast Beta Episode 4In this fourth beta edition episode of Dev Game Club, we continue to examine System Shock 2, finishing what remains of the game. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary.
Note: Though this is the fourth and final episode about our playing the game, we will have a special guest for episode 5! Having already started spoiling story stuff in Episode 3, we continue to do so here. If you're playing along, you may want to finish the game first and come back to the podcast after you have.
S...2016-03-231h 26
Dev Game ClubDev Game Club Podcast Beta Episode 1In this inaugural beta edition of Dev Game Club, we talk about the relevance of System Shock 2, its precedents and antecedents, and cover the first couple of hours of the game. Dev Game Club looks at classic video games and plays through them over several episodes, providing commentary.
Show notes:
DGC Ep 1
Sections played: Opening area, tutorial, character customization area, von Braun Med/Sci and Crew Quarters.
Podcast breakdown:0:00:33 - Reason behind 'cast0:02:27 - History of hosts0:05:00 - Expected 'cast layout0:07:55 - History of System Shock 20:29:05...2016-03-031h 32