Shows
Game/Life Balance U.S.Literally The Only Podcast Ever Made in All of 2019 (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 060)Cody and Jon record their first episode together in 2019, and hilarity ensues. Also in this jam-packed episode: Cody dives into Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers, and Jon reviews Hollow Knight and Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden. They also talk about Xbox Game Pass, Risk of Rain 2, the TV shows Silicon Valley and Star Trek: The Next Generation, and micheladas. Having a core exercises for swimming will make you a better, stronger swimmer.
Show Notes:
* Join the GonnaGeek Discord server, where you can chat with Cody, Jon, and several other members of the GonnaGeek Network: https://discord...
2019-07-251h 34Game/Life Balance U.S.Elliot Callighan Talks “Unlock Audio” and Sound Design for Media (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 059)Elliot Callighan, composer and sound designer for media and adjunct professor at DePaul University, joins Cody to discuss his new project, Unlock Audio. It’s a tool for re-framing game audio to make it developer-centric from both a creative and business perspective. They also talk game design education, sound design, and — of course — what video games they’ve been playing lately! 10 tips for creating a stylish kid’s room on a budgetPaint. Painting remains one of the most affordable ways to decorate a space. Use stickers. Wall sticker art is one of the most popular ways to decorate a child’s room — and...
2019-04-2346 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Favorite Video Games of 2018 (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 057)Cody and Jon go FULL GAMER and review their favorite video games played over the past year, in addition to discussing what they learned about balancing video games with real life. Plus: a look ahead at what’s to come in 2019!People can also check out here if they need help with video games.
Show Notes:
* Cody discusses Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood, Undertale, 20XX, Timespinner, and more!
* He and Jon both discuss Sid Meier’s Civilization VI and Heroes of the Storm.
* Jon talks Darkest Dungeon, Endless Space 2, Final Fantasy XII: Zodiac Age, Dead Cells, and m...
2018-12-261h 19Game/Life Balance U.S.Balancing Not One, But TWO Kids: Jonathan Martin Returns to the Podcast (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 056)Jon returns from an extended hiatus to talk about what it’s like balancing games and life now that he has not one, but TWO, kids. He and Cody also give updates on what video games they’ve been playing over the last several months.
Show Notes:
* Jon explains why he took multiple months off from the podcast, briefly recounting the story of his new baby’s early arrival (you can hear the full, uncut version of the story on our uncut recording on YouTube)
* Then, Jon talks about how his time has been cut up sin...
2018-12-061h 05Game/Life Balance U.S.Gen Con 2018 Board Game Review Special (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 054)In a special solo episode, Cody discusses his favorite games from Gen Con 2018 and offers some buying recommendations if you’re looking for the latest and greatest in strategy board games. Plus, learn a little about the role-playing game worlds of Starfinder, Arcanis: The World of Shattered Empires, and Savage Worlds.
Show Notes:
* Cody discusses his favorite board game adventures from Gen Con 2018, including the following unreleased games:
* The expansion 7 Wonders: Armada / Asmodee (7 Wonders and 7 Wonders: Leaders Expansion available now)
* Dragon Ball Z: The Board Game Saga / Lynnvander Studios, estimated release date Q4 2018 (orig...
2018-08-2159 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Board Game Review Special: Martin Con 2018 (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 053)Cody and Jon recap their favorite board games of “Martin Con” 2018, the annual Memorial Day Weekend board game gathering hosted at Jon’s house in Minnesota.
This year’s games include but are not limited to: Avalon, Near and Far, Chaos in the Old World, Terraforming Mars, Arkham Horror, Mystic Vale, Sid Meier’s Civilization: A New Dawn, Rising Sun, Imperial Assault (with iPad), Ethnos, Eldritch Horror, and Codenames.
Show Notes:
* The two hosts give a quick rundown of the concept of “Martin Con” before diving into multiple detailed board game reviews
* Check our past podcasts f...
2018-06-281h 18Game/Life Balance U.S.Interview with “The Minds Behind the Games” author Patrick Hickey, Jr. (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 052)You know who directed your favorite films and wrote your favorite screenplays… so why don’t you know the names behind your favorite video games? On this episode, host Cody Gough interviews Patrick Hickey, Jr, author of “The Minds Behind the Games: Interviews With Cult and Classic Video Game Developers,” about his conversations with the creators of games like NBA Jam, Night Trap, Maniac Mansion, and more.
Show Notes:
* Patrick Hickey, Jr, creator of ReviewFix.com, discusses:
* The process of inviting game developers to tell him their stories, and what motivated him to share their tales in...
2018-06-1445 minGame/Life Balance U.S.F-Zero: Can you be nostalgic for a bad game? (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 051)Cody and Jon attempt to explain F-Zero after playing it on the SNES Classic, despite not really caring at all about racing games. They also finally give an update on what’s going on in their lives, for once!
Show Notes:
* Cody and Jon try to stumble through a review of F-Zero, despite the fact that racing games aren’t their “thing”
* Jon is curious about what Cody has to say regarding the game’s “interesting mechanics,” and both of them find the game strangely entertaining, despite the fact that they agree that the game is relatively...
2018-05-241h 08Game/Life Balance U.S.Is it too late for EarthBound? (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 050)Jon reviews EarthBound, one of his favorite games ever, and Cody asks: is it too late for EarthBound to find a new audience?
Show Notes:
* The hard question gets put out there: is it too late for EarthBound?
* After an in-depth discussion, play along with EarthBound trivia!
* Jon gives an update on his quest to play through every Final Fantasy game this year, and Cody explains why he’s playing Final Fantasy XIV again
* To nominate an SNES Classic game for them to review on their next episode, email unqualifiedpodcast@gmail.com or tw...
2018-05-101h 03Game/Life Balance U.S.Is Super Metroid A Perfect Game? (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 049)Is Super Metroid a perfect video game? Cody poses the question and Jon tries to come up with answers, as they review the classic Nintendo title on the SNES Classic — 24 years after it was first released.
Show Notes:
* Cody asks the hard question: is Super Metroid a perfect video game?
* Jon reveals why he has SO MUCH HAIR on his head right now, and it’s actually a pretty good reason
* Cody’s first impressions of Stellaris, which is a very confusing game
* Jon gives an update on his quest to play through every...
2018-03-151h 08Game/Life Balance U.S.Yoshi’s Island: When Optional Content Determines A Game’s Fun (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 048)Can optional content determine the playability and fun factor of a video game? Cody discusses how this happened as he and Jon review Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island for the SNES Classic, arguably the best platformer ever made.
Show Notes:
* Cody explains that he has upgraded to “gigabyte internet” but has no idea what that actually means (and plugs the Portal WiFi Router, basically the best router in the history of the world ever)
* Jon explains why he thinks Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island might be the best platformer of all time, and he and C...
2018-02-231h 06Game/Life Balance U.S.Pacing and Active Participation in Role-Playing Games with Super Mario RPG (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 047)Cody and Jon delve into the history of Nintendo’s unique collaboration with Square-Enix (Squaresoft, at the time) and review Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars on the SNES Classic.
Show Notes:
* Cody and Jon discuss the incredibly unique circumstances of Nintendo and Squaresoft (known today as Square-Enix) working together to create a game that combines the best of many worlds
* To wrap up the episode, Cody gives his first impressions of the recently released PlayStation 4 port of Dissidia Final Fantasy NT, a fighting game with action role-playing elements developed by Koei Tecmo’s Te...
2018-02-091h 14Game/Life Balance U.S.The Relationship Between Fun and Difficulty with Contra III: The Alien Wars (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 046)Cody and Jon review the run and gun game Contra III: The Alien Wars on the SNES Classic.
Show Notes:
* Cody and Jon discuss whether the game is too difficult or they just don’t like playing games that hard! Plus: why is 2-player mode completely broken and literally unplayable?
* To nominate an SNES Classic game for them to review on their next episode, email unqualifiedpodcast@gmail.com or tweet at Cody @ProducerCody and/or Jon @eatplaygame
* Learn how to connect with us on the GonnaGeek Network, syndication on WGN Plus, our YouTube channel, and...
2018-01-111h 01Game/Life Balance U.S.What Makes A Good Platformer? Super Castlevania IV SNES Classic Review (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 045)Cody and Jon review Super Castlevania IV, one of many remakes of the original Castlevania, on the SNES Classic. Plus: first impressions of the board game Sid Meier’s Civilization: A New Dawn!
Show Notes:
* Hear how Cody was gilded on Reddit with an unlikely comment related to Triple H’s entrance music.
* Cody and Jon set the stage for their discussion by talking about their history with the Castlevania series, including Cody’s extremely old Let’s Play Castlevania: Symphony of the Night VHS Tape, which is now on YouTube.
* Cody and Jon debate t...
2017-12-291h 02Game/Life Balance U.S.When Do Outdated Graphics Break A Game? Star Fox and Star Fox 2 SNES Classic Reviews (Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 044)Cody and Jon review both Star Fox and Star Fox 2 on the SNES Classic, then discuss the history of the Star Fox franchise. Plus: trivia!
Show Notes:
* Somehow, both Cody and Jon got their hands on an SNES Classic Mini, and they’re going to review a game on every episode of the podcast for the next 20 episodes!
* Hear about the history of the Star Fox franchise and whether Star Fox holds up as a good game more than 20 years after its initial release.
* To nominate an SNES Classic game for them to review on...
2017-12-151h 05Game/Life Balance U.S.Final Fantasy RETROspective Review (Podcast Episode 1)Jonathan Martin reviews the original Final Fantasy for the Nintendo Entertainment System as part of his ongoing RETROspective retro video game review series.
Show Notes:
* Share your thoughts about this review with Jonathan Martin on Twitter at @eatplaygame
* Connect with us on the GonnaGeek Network, our YouTube channel, and more!
* Game/Life Balance AUS official web site: http://www.gamelifebalanceaustralia.com
2017-12-1018 minGame/Life Balance U.S.We’re back! Weddings, Extra Life, and SNES Classic Plans: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 043Cody and Jon return from a 6-month hiatus to talk weddings, classic Star Trek, the Extra Life video game marathon, Super Mario Odyssey, retro gaming, and their SNES Classic plans for the future of the podcast!
Show Notes:
* After a 6-month hiatus, Cody and Jon discuss what they’ve been up to and why they’ve resurrected their podcast
* Cody raves about his new job with Curiosity.com, then rants about LinkedIn for being a really awful social media network
* They recap Cody’s wedding at Promontory Point in Chicago, including the reception at the Co...
2017-11-301h 28Game/Life Balance U.S.Cody Gough presents Curiosity: Game/Life Balance U.S. Special PodcastCody gives one more quick update as the 2017 Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Hiatus continues.
Show Notes:
* You can find Cody’s new podcast, the Curiosity Podcast, on iTunes or Stitcher, or add the RSS feed to any podcast player. Please leave a review if you have a minute!
* While you’re waiting for new episodes, check out our hilarious and still active sister show, Game/Life Balance Australia, on their official web site: http://www.gamelifebalanceaustralia.com
2017-07-2611 minGame/Life Balance U.S.The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Nintendo Switch Review (Game/Life Balance Gaiden Special Podcast)This week, Cody Gough of Game/Life Balance U.S. is joined by special guests Andrew “AC” Yoshimura of Game/Life Balance Australia and Chris Ferrell of the All Things Good and Nerdy and Official GonnaGeek.com Podcasts for a VERY SPECIAL REVIEW of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on the Nintendo Switch. Will you like this game even if you aren’t a long-time Zelda fan? And how does the Nintendo Switch hold up? Tune in to find out!
Show Notes:
* Nintendo Switch Review:
* AC talks about why he bought a Ninte...
2017-06-081h 39Game/Life Balance U.S.Defenders of the Triforce Real Escape Game and Trevail Kitchen: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 042Cody reviews his experience playing The Legend of Zelda themed Real Escape Game “Defenders of the Triforce,” and Jon explains why his birthday meal at Trevail Kitchen was one of the most unique dining experiences he’s ever had. Plus: a SPECIAL SURPRISE ENDING!
Show Notes:
* Cody has accepted a new position as the director of the FBI, and is legally changing his name to “FBI Director James Codey”
* Life Stuff
* Cody went to The Legend of Zelda themed Real Escape Game “Defenders of the Triforce” in Chicago, and recounts his experience
* Cody discusses...
2017-05-111h 05Game/Life Balance U.S.Jon’s layover fail and Cody’s weight loss win: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 041Jon explains why he will never risk flying with a layover while in the company of a small child ever again, and Cody shares his weight loss success story and the secret to how he lost 18 pounds in 6 weeks.
Show Notes:
* Jon tells a tender heartwarming story about singing an Australian lullaby to his kid, because the only American lullaby he can think of is by Kid Rock
* Cody and Jon haven’t recorded a new episode in quite some time, so prepare for a lot of excessive exposition! Fortunately, Jon plans on presenting this in...
2017-04-201h 01Game/Life Balance U.S.Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII review (Game/Life Balance U.S. FULL GAMER Podcast)Jon gives a very thorough Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII review… 3 years after Cody reviewed the game on their old podcast, Unqualified Gamers. Hear how the game withstood the test of time, including Jon’s specific recommendations for the best way to enjoy playing it for the first time.
Show Notes:
* Cody reviewed Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII 3 years ago on his and Jon’s old podcast, Unqualified Gamers
* Here is Cody explaining the storyline to Lightning Returns to Jon, with hilarious results
* Here is Cody fully reviewing the game, in addition to he and J...
2017-03-301h 02Game/Life Balance U.S.Special edition video games: ripoffs or worth it? Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 040The collector’s edition of Final Fantasy XII has been announced, and the price is STEEP. Cody and Jon debate the value of special edition video games, then give an update on their recent game/life balance.
Show Notes:
* Current News
* FINAL FANTASY® XII THE ZODIAC AGE COLLECTOR’S EDITION is for sale on the Square-Enix store, and… it costs $200, which Jon thinks is offensively overpriced
* Jon takes a hard line against collector’s edition and special edition video games, insisting that they just aren’t worth the extra money to him, and Cody debates...
2017-03-1659 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Cody got engaged and Jon nearly died: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 039In this EXTREMELY EVENTFUL EPISODE: Cody got engaged! Hear him retell the story of how he popped the question, then catch up with Jon and learn how he nearly died last week (like, kinda not joking).
Show Notes:
* Cody and Jon argue about whose story should go first in this podcast episode, which somehow turns into a tangent about Omega Virus
* Cody retells the story of how he proposed to his girlfriend and got engaged! Prominently featuring empanadas and the historic Music Box Theatre in Chicago
* Hear also how and why Cody ended u...
2017-03-031h 01Game/Life Balance U.S.Final Fantasy XV review: Game/Life Balance U.S. PodcastCody gives a feature-length Final Fantasy XV review. Spoiler alert: he didn’t love it. Hear Cody explain exactly why he takes issue with this game as a main entry in the series, then judge for yourself whether it’s worth buying at full-price.
Show Notes:
“No sense of wonder. No plot. Poorly structured. Egregious flow and play control issues. A melodrama without the fun or sense of adventure that defines the Final Fantasy series.”
Cody is an adult who works six days a week while trying to maintain a healthy relationship with his girlfriend, so he has a...
2017-02-241h 06Game/Life Balance U.S.Overwatch first impressions and board game strategy: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 038Jon finally got the chance to play Overwatch, the video game that literally everyone seems to be talking about! Hear his first impressions, plus Cody’s take on strategy board games and the best ways to play with friends.
Show Notes:
* Jon explains why he thinks he’s “the gross guy” at the gym every morning
* Cody and Jon went to Madison last weekend to play board games! Hear how and why the weekend ended up involving video games, especially Overwatch
* Cody also recounts his quest to get “the ultimate weapon” in Final Fantasy XV, wh...
2017-02-1656 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Gamers on global politics, activism, and the billionaire class: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 037Following Cody’s recent international travels, he and Jon have a frank discussion about global politics, activism, and the billionaire class, including a conversation on why people should approach politics from the perspective of strategy gamers. This mostly non-partisan podcast is full of unique perspectives from a couple of Millennials trying to make sense of it all; don’t miss it!
Show Notes:
* Cody has “accidentally” become a globetrotter, but Jon has some exciting news about an upcoming trip that came about because he is very good at his job!
* Learn about Michelin Stars, and the fact...
2017-02-021h 01Game/Life Balance U.S.Gaming in bars and casinos: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 036Cody and Jon talk gaming in bars and casinos and how they, as gamers, approach gambling*. Hear about gambling laws in Minnesota and Illinois, plus future plans to visit Las Vegas and where they might hope to win it big!
If you think you might have a gambling addiction, then call 1-800-522-4700. The National Council on Problem Gambling operates the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network (1-800-522-4700). The network is a single national access point to local resources for those seeking help for a gambling problem.
Show Notes:
* Cody calls Jon out...
2017-01-1943 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Annual video game review roundup, plus adulting in 2017: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 035Cody and Jon go FULL GAMER and review their favorite video games played over the past year, in addition to discussing what they learned about balancing video games with real life. Plus: a look ahead at what’s to come in 2017!
Show Notes:
* Cody and Jon present their favorite games of 2016 (note that they were not necessarily released in 2016, but are games they played in 2016), including:
* Doom (2016 edition; Jon’s review here)
* Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn (Cody, Jon, and a special guest review here)
* The Witness (Jon reviews here)
* Darkest...
2017-01-051h 19Game/Life Balance U.S.Cody and Jon COMPLETELY DESTROY travel naysayers: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 034Cody was told by several people that he would literally die by traveling, and yet he survived. Hear him and Jon completely destroy travel naysayers, then talk about what it’s like to take kids on vacation.
Show Notes:
* Jon checks in on his facial hair progress: if you had to pick one, then would you say it’s better to look good or to look young?
* Cody and Jon discuss the lore of spanking in the pantheon of the Game/Life Balance U.S. podcast
* Life Stuff
* Cody traveled to Mexico City...
2016-12-1657 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Holiday work culture and misleading time commitments: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 033Jon and Cody discuss work culture during the holiday season, then talk misleading time commitments—especially as it relates to finding time to play video games.
Show Notes:
* Jon explains why he’s been absent from the podcast for a few weeks and how it relates to the nature of this podcast (hint: it’s related to parenting)
* Life Stuff
* Jon talks about being a pharmacist during the holidays, and Cody explains what corporate life is like in December
* A quick tangent about the upcoming Hearthstone expansion, Mean Streets of Gagdetzan, spirals out of c...
2016-11-241h 04Game/Life Balance U.S.What the Cubs win was like in Chicago, plus over-age drinking: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 032Cody describes what it was like to walk from his apartment to Wrigley Field immediately following the Chicago Cubs win in Game 7 of the 2016 World Series for the first time in 108 years. Then, guest host Chris Ferrell discusses over-age drinking and how he can’t quite party like he could in college.
Show Notes:
* Marijuana is now legal in various forms across America, and Cody is trying to cash in
* Cody introduces Chris Ferrell from the GonnaGeek Network and chastises his regular co-host Jon for blowing him off on the podcast
* Several unnecessary WWE ref...
2016-11-111h 02Game/Life Balance U.S.Highlander, Halloween, and Nintendo Switch: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 031Cody talks about how he found himself watching Highlander in a movie theater in Wrigleyville as the Chicago Cubs won their first pennant since 1945. Plus: Jon has his annual Halloween love fest and recommends movies and games for the season, then discusses the Nintendo Switch with Cody.
Show Notes:
* The Chicago Cubs are in the World Series for the first time in over 70 years! Cody explains why he found himself in Wrigleyville the night they won the pennant at Wrigley Field
* Cody gives a mini-review of Highlander, which he saw at an old-timey movie theatre with Ni...
2016-10-271h 04Game/Life Balance U.S.Commercial auditions and gamer stereotypes: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 030Cody and Jon discuss their recent game/life balance, then Cody explains how commercial auditions and casting agencies work. He then engages Jon in a discussion on gamer stereotypes and how deeply they’ve permeated our culture.
Show Notes:
* Jon riffs on NPR pledge drives, and Cody makes fun of his stupid face
* Cody has a stroke or something and starts screaming about perspiration and precipitation and religion
* Jon disagrees with Cody’s assessment of how to tell when it’s time to start recording their podcast every week, especially regarding putting his son to bed
2016-10-1355 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Facial hair, creative ruts, and potty training: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 029Jon and Cody debate styles and merits of facial hair, Cody gets stuck in a creative rut, and Jon has a potty training nightmare. All in one explosive episode!
Show Notes:
* Jon explains why he’s trying to grow a beard, and Cody explains why some people just are not allowed to grow facial hair for any reason ever
* Cody describes his creative rut and discusses creative outlets with Jon
* Jon used to actually be really good at singing, but apparently is not driven by the same need for a creative outlet as Co...
2016-09-3049 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Cody and Jon improvise comedy for an hour: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 028Look, let’s just call this episode like it is: Cody and Jon don’t really have anything significant to talk about, so they just improvise comedy for a while. Listen to this episode, but expect hilarity in lieu of actual content!
Show Notes:
* Jon brings up Harambe McHarambeface, and Cody crushes his dreams by pointing out that the story is fake and stupid
* What do you drink after you get home from the gym? Cody and Jon discuss why the answer probably should not be “cookie dough”
* Cody rages because sports seasons are happening, a...
2016-09-1559 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Kentucky Route Zero Review: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 027Jon gives a glowing Kentucky Route Zero review and tries to help Cody understand how it’s like Twin Peaks.
If you don’t know what to do in the gym or you’ve never stepped foot in one before, it can seem like a pretty scary place. What are all the machines for? How do I do use them? Is everyone looking at me? That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate gym guide for beginners, that covers everything from what to pack in your gym bag, right up to your very own beginner’s workout. Once you’ve read t...
2016-09-0152 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Travel tips and stories from Las Vegas and Spain: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 026Jon returns from Las Vegas (one of his favorite travel destinations) and Cody returns from two weeks in Spain with some travel tips for listeners.
Show Notes:
* Jon explains what happened last week when his power went out, which abruptly ended last week’s episode
* Cody and Jon discuss Jon’s guest appearance on Game/Life Gaiden, an offshoot of the Game/Life Balance brand that he co-hosted with AC of Game/Life Balance Australia
* Full Gamer
* It’s more like “Half Gamer,” as Cody discusses joining a Free Company in Final Fantasy XI...
2016-08-191h 24Game/Life Balance U.S.Fantasy writing and board games of Gen Con 2016: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 025Cody and Jon discuss the fantasy writing workshops, board games, and other geek culture they experienced at the world’s largest gaming convention: Gen Con 2016!
Show Notes:
* Jon and Cody discuss sharing a hotel room with 12 adult dudes, and how whiskey pouring can complicate sleep sometimes
* Cody gives a high-level overview of the writing seminars offered at Gen Con 2016, some of the interesting takeaways from the authors on the panels he attended, and a little background about his writing interests and his first foray into writing a fantasy novel
* Jon describes the huge difference bet...
2016-08-1142 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn review and MMORPG history: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 024Cody bit the bullet and started playing Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, his first massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG). He and Jon welcome special guest and FFXIV fanatic Brad to talk about the game, MMOs, and more.
Show Notes:
* Jon tries to trick Brad, this episode’s special guest, into thinking they’re actually going to talk about pro wrestling for an hour
* Cody and Jon welcome special guest Brad to the program, since he’s been playing Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn since its inception and thus knows a ridiculous amount about...
2016-07-211h 12Game/Life Balance U.S.Live from Podcast Movement 2016 with Signl.fm: Game/Life Balance U.S. Special EpisodeIn this special bite-sized podcast, Cody sits down with Kim Hansen of Signl.fm to discuss her podcasting platform and share some fun stories from her background in the video game industry.
Show Notes:
* Cody thanks Buzzsprout for letting him use their equipment at Podcast Movement 2016
* Cody introduces Kim Hansen, CEO of Signl.fm, and she talks a bit about Signl.fm and its features (“Twitch for podcasting”)
* Learn about how Signl.fm can help with podcast monetization, live streaming and listener engagement, transcription with IBM Watson, and more!
* Kim also us...
2016-07-1114 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Independence Day Weekend 2016 with Guns N’ Roses: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 023Jon and Cody discuss their Independence Day weekend, complete with illegal fireworks displays, The Book of Mormon, and the Guns N’ Roses “Not in This Lifetime…” tour. Plus, hear about a bizarre Anime called Belladonna of Sadness and a check-in with Summer Games Done Quick 2016.
Show Notes:
* Following a raucous Independence Day weekend, Jon and Cody reflect on their feelings about fireworks, which are strangely similar despite Jon being a cranky old man at this point in his life
* Life Stuff
* Cody saw The Book of Mormon in Chicago, and it was worth every pe...
2016-07-071h 04Game/Life Balance U.S.Mighty No. 9 Launch, Kickstarter Fails, and Booking Air Travel: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 022Jon and Cody discuss the epic tale of the Mighty No. 9 launch, plus other Kickstarter projects they’ve backed in the past. Then, Cody launches into a tangent about the Tremors movie series, Jon talks about Father’s Day, and Cody shares some tips and tricks for booking international travel online.
Show Notes:
* Jon tells the sad tale of the Mighty No. 9 launch, which underwhelmed and under-delivered in more ways than thought possible
* Cody shares his history backing video games on Kickstarter and why he doesn’t closely follow Kickstarter campaigns after he’s funded th...
2016-06-2341 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Martin-Con 2016 board game reviews: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 021Cody and Jon played a ton of board games at “Martin-Con” 2016 in Minneapolis, and they have a lot to say about them! Hear them delve into several board game reviews, then review X-Men: Apocalypse and talk a little Jessica Jones on Netflix.
Show Notes:
* Cody and Jon explain the legacy of “Martin-Con,” the annual tradition of Jon hosting their friends to play a bunch of board games, and how it has grown over the years
* A serious discussion of “root brews,” involving mason jars, cans, pints, drafts, and obviously Cody not having literally any idea what he’s ta...
2016-06-091h 01Game/Life Balance U.S.Jon’s first 5k and parenting scares: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 020Jon bares his soul in this riveting episode, featuring his first 5k (did an injury hold him back, or did he run through the burn?) and a terrifying story of parenting that a lot of parents should be able to relate to.
Show Notes:
* Life Stuff
* Jon ran his first 5k—or did he? Hear his exciting tale of how it all went down
* To “run through the burn,” or not to run through the burn? That is the everlasting question among athletes!
* Joy of Parenting
* Jon has a scary...
2016-05-2658 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Why people hate the new Ghostbusters: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 019Why is there so much hate surrounding the new Ghostbusters movie, despite the fact that only one trailer has been released? Jon discusses the dark psychology of the Internet, and Cody plays devil’s advocate when it comes to maintaining the integrity of storied franchises. It’s a back-and-forth discussion you won’t want to miss!
Show Notes:
* Cody talks about the format of Game/Life Balance Australia, plus why they are kind of stealing their format, and also talks about fire tornadoes
* Cody and Jon had a fascinating discussion over Google Hangouts regarding the new Gho...
2016-05-2044 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Video game commitment anxiety, gardening, and Budweiser’s “America”: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 018Budweiser wants to change its name for the summer, and Jon thinks it is utterly ridiculous. Then, learn why Cody has Star Fox Zero commitment anxiety following his triumph over The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD. Plus: Jon’s big birthday was so big, he literally forgets how old he is, and Cody does a quick hit on Captain America: Civil War.
Show Notes:
* This summer, for a limited time, Budweiser wants to change the name of its beer to… “America”
* Cody and Jon search for various things on Google, including what you get when you m...
2016-05-1251 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Netflix extravaganza featuring Daredevil Season 1: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 016Cody and Jon have a Netflix extravaganza, prompted by Cody’s choice to watch Marvel’s Daredevil Season 1 on Netflix almost exclusively on his cell phone. Hear them discuss everything from Black Mirror to horror movies to various versions of Star Trek, then get Cody’s aggressive thoughts on the newest Hearthstone expansion, Whispers of the Old Gods.
Show Notes:
* Jon agrees to discuss the podcast only in terms of emoji from now on (Cody does not actually agree to this at any point, but he rolls with it)
* Jon gets a text message from THE WEA...
2016-04-281h 00Game/Life Balance U.S.Finding a life balance with irreverence, exercise, and music: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 015Cody shares some exciting news coming from Illinois, just in time for the 4/20 “holiday.” Then, Jon discusses his child’s hilarious sleeping habits and his own personal battle with becoming a runner, and Cody shares his favorite hidden gems in the world of video game music arrangements and radio drama podcasts.
Show Notes:
* Jon accuses Rob from Game/Life Balance Australia of being well-read and cultured, because he reads books
* “Buying a bunch of games and not playing them is not nearly as impressive as buying a bunch of books and not reading them”
* Jon mak...
2016-04-211h 02Game/Life Balance U.S.Podcasting technical difficulties and rage uninstalling Clash Royale: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 014Cody reveals his #1 pet peeve in the entire world, which happens to involve podcasting technical difficulties that occur both before and after this episode’s recording. Then, Jon explains why he rage uninstalled a mobile game for the first time in his life, and some of the pros and cons of Clash Royale.
Show Notes:
* Cody visits the bomb dot com, which we aren’t going to link to in our show notes because it’s such an atrocious click-bait website
* Jon raises the important question: why isn’t Game/Life Balance Australia this podcast’s “brother...
2016-04-1449 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Cody visits Colorado marijuana dispensaries: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 013Cody describes his experience shopping at recreational Colorado marijuana dispensaries, where recreational marijuana use has been legalized. Learn about the laws and the culture in one of America’s first states to legalize weed!
Show Notes:
* Jon shows a shred of humanity by wishing Cody a belated happy birthday!
* Joy of Parenting
* Jon’s son has transitioned from a crib to a bed, and while the proposition was terrifying, the results have been hilarious
* Life Stuff
* Cody went on “spring break” in Colorado and had a chance to visit a num...
2016-04-0853 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Steam in Russia, C2E2 podcasting, and Darkest Dungeon: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 012Cody introduces special guest “Russian Jon,” a long-time friend of the podcast who discusses what it’s like to buy Steam games in Russia. Then, Cody recaps the GonnaGeek Network podcasting event he attended at C2E2, and the two Jons review the roguelike dungeon crawler Darkest Dungeon.
Show Notes:
* Cody and Jon introduce / re-introduce Russian Jon to the podcast, and he discusses what it’s like to acquire games on Steam in Russia
* Russian Jon, a long-time friend of both Cody and American Jon (Regular Jon? AmeriJon?), tells some stories about growing up with them, how he...
2016-03-241h 15Game/Life Balance U.S.The Witness and the dentist: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 011Cody gives a public service announcement about The Legend of Zelda dungeons and going to a teeth whitening dentist (in real life), and Jon reviews The Witness, the new puzzle game from Jonathan Blow.
Show Notes:
* Cody explains the importance of never, ever quitting a Zelda game while in the middle of playing through a dungeon, even if you’ve already played it several times in the past
* Cody and Jon discuss March Madness, and you’ll be shocked at what they have to say about their brackets (or lack thereof)
* Life Stuff
...
2016-03-1746 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Minnesota caucus and The Man Who Murdered Sherlock Holmes: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 010Jon did his duty as an American citizen by participating in the Minnesota caucus process, and boy, was it exciting! Plus: Cody delves into Sherlock Holmes after seeing a musical about Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, then discusses ownership of fictional characters.
Show Notes:
* Jon explains his new-found love of red wine in a weird conversation about beer and Australia
* Current News
* Jon and his wife participated in the Minnesota caucus, and it was much more exciting than they had anticipated
* Life Stuff
* Cody’s girlfriend brought him to see...
2016-03-1149 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Roberto Bolaño’s 2666 at Goodman Theatre: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 009Cody and his girlfriend Casey discuss the current production of 2666 at Goodman Theatre, which they had the opportunity to see over the weekend. They also finished watching Twin Peaks, and have a lot to say about its final episodes.
Show Notes:
* Game/Life Balance Australia has finally launched! Or, re-launched! …either way, Cody is excited about it!
* Hear why Cody is now referring to his usual co-host Jonathan Martin as “Uncle Stabbo,” and meet this week’s guest host Casey
* Cody reveals his true identity as a Nigerian princess, as discussed on Game/Life Bala...
2016-03-0353 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Deadpool movie to become highest-grossing Rated-R film ever: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 008The Deadpool movie is set to surpass Passion of the Christ as the highest-grossing Rated R film of all time, and having seen it last weekend, Cody completely understands why. Hear all about it in this episode of the Game/Life Balance U.S. podcast!
Show Notes:
* Cody and Jon are really hype about the fact that Risk of Rain, one of their favorite multiplayer games, is going to be released on the PS4 with a robust matchmaking system
* Cody and Jon discuss the basic tenets of the podcast, which somehow involves Vatican City and/o...
2016-02-2645 minGame/Life Balance U.S.The Federal Reserve, U.S. Politics, and The Order: 1886: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 007Jon tells a hilarious story about a “free to play” game he’s been playing on his phone, and Cody discusses how he’s learning about the Federal Reserve. Then, he and Jon delve into U.S. politics for a bit before Cody goes FULL GAMER and reviews The Order: 1886 for the PlayStation 4.
Show Notes:
* Jon tells a ridiculous story about Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes, featuring a ONE HUNDRED DOLLAR “micro” transaction
* Cody discusses the book he’s reading, The Power and Independence of the Federal Reserve, and talks about his foray into learning about the Feder...
2016-02-181h 00Game/Life Balance U.S.Competitive gaming in high school: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 006Cody and Jon are joined by a very special guest to discuss his experience with the competitive video game scene, including how to balance such a hobby with the rigorous demands of high school (!!!).
Show Notes:
* Cody and Jon welcome Chris Long to the podcast, a long-time listener of the podcast eager to share his experience with competitive gaming
* Life Stuff
* Chris talks about his experience building robots for robotics competitions, then makes Cody and Jon feel really old by talking about some other awesome high school things
* Jon asks the question on e...
2016-02-1158 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Cody goes viral with Bernie Sanders, talks political identity: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 005Cody somehow unexpectedly became a political writer when his post about Bernie Sanders went viral. Hear him discuss how it’s changed his life, including a surprisingly thoughtful discussion with Jon about politics and identity. Then, hear Jon go “FULL GAMER” and chat about the video game Sunless Sea.
Show Notes:
* Jon insists on recording a promo for the GonnaGeek Network, even though the broadcast already started
* Current News – Cody wrote an article about Bernie Sanders and somehow became a political writer on the Huffington Post after it went viral on his web site
* Jon talks to C...
2016-02-041h 10Game/Life Balance U.S.League of Legends nets $1.6 billion, plus Yik Yak app talk: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 004League of Legends brought in $1.6 billion in revenue in 2015, and Jon explains why that’s a big deal for video games and their fans. He then explains why he’s hype about The Witness, and Cody discusses why he’s addicted to the Yik Yak app.
Show Notes:
* Current news: League of Legends
* Jon discusses how the multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game earned $1.6 billion in revenues in 2015 — seven times more than its closest competitor in the genre
* Cody has a brilliant plan to combine World of Warcraft with Facebook in order to maximize it...
2016-01-2853 minGame/Life Balance U.S.100 percent completion? Finishing what you started: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 003Do you always finish what you started? How about in video games? What exactly does “finished” mean, anyway? Hear Jon and Cody discuss 100 percent completion and more in this exciting Game/Life Balance U.S. podcast!
Show Notes:
* Cody introduces the segments that will make up future of episodes of Game/Life Balance U.S.: Balancing Act, Current News, Full Gamer, Game LIVE, Hype, Life Stuff, and Oddities
* Life Stuff
* Jon bought a new house, and it was broken! So he talks about how he fixed it, and Cody wonders how much of their mutua...
2016-01-211h 00Game/Life Balance U.S.New Year’s Resolutions and habits: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 002Cody and Jon discuss Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Then, Jon has figured out a legendary way to strike a balance between games and life, and Cody doesn’t understand how to podcast anymore but he DOES like reading books.
Show Notes:
* Jon finally saw Star Wars: The Force Awakens and discusses his thoughts and feelings about the film
* Cody launches into a tangent about Quentin Tarantino films, including his thoughts on The Hateful Eight
* Both Jon and his wife made agreed upon the same New Year’s Resolutions, and Jon explains why th...
2016-01-1453 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Favorite video games of 2015: Game/Life Balance U.S. Podcast Ep. 001Cody Gough and Jonathan Martin debut their new lifestyle podcast after 4 years of hosting their video game podcast, Unqualified Gamers, which they ended at the end of 2015. Learn about the hosts, the new podcast, and their favorite video games of 2015.
Show Notes:
* Cody Gough introduces the Game/Life Balance U.S. podcast with Jonathan Martin
* Cody and Jon explain why they stopped doing their old video game podcast, Unqualified Gamers, and why people should listen to Game/Life Balance U.S.
* Learn about what types of games Cody and Jon like, what they have in comm...
2016-01-071h 19Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #127: Selling your video games: the final episodeLearn why Jon sold his entire collection of physical video games and consoles, and why his wife is upset with his decision. Jon and Cody’s significant others join them with some surprising perspectives on collecting “things” and the emotional value of physical objects. Tune in for the final episode of Unqualified Gamers before Cody and Jon move on to their next venture, Game/Life Balance U.S.!
Show Notes:
* Cody and Jon explain the saga of why Jon decided to sell all of his video games
* Jon’s wife Casey argues that it was a terrible...
2015-12-101h 11Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #126: Worldwide Nuclear Disarmament in Metal Gear Solid V: Philosophers versus PatriotsCody discusses the concept and efforts behind worldwide nuclear disarmament in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, including efforts from Reddit communities to participate in one of the biggest metagames he’s seen since Twitch Plays Pokemon. Then, he and Jon have a MAJOR announcement about the future of Unqualified Gamers!
Show Notes:
* Cody and Jon discuss whether 127 is a prime number (it is) in a moment of ominous foreshadowing
* Cody explains how nuclear weapons work (kind of) in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, and the inner workings of Konami’s “worldwide nuclear disarmam...
2015-12-0337 minGame/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #125: Downloadable content woes, featuring Star Wars Battlefront & Metal Gear Solid VJon has a bone to pick with the upcoming downloadable content release schedule for Star Wars Battlefront, and Cody debates with him whether Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is guilty of DLC misdeeds.
Show Notes:
* Photo credit: Marco Verch via Flickr
* Jon recounts the tale of one man’s ridiculous customer service experience with Sony
* Cody counter-points with some good customer service experiences he’s had with Sony, which somehow leads to Jon talking about a subscription he has that allows him to listen to old baseball games… which is completely pointless
* J...
2015-11-191h 02Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #124: Dragon Quest Heroes: The World Tree’s Woe and the Blight Below reviewJon reviews Dragon Quest Heroes: The World Tree’s Woe and the Blight Below, including a brief history of the Dragon Quest / Dragon Warrior franchise and a primer on Musou games. Plus, Cody has an exciting announcement about the future of Unqualified Gamers!
Photo credit: gullevek via Flickr
Show Notes:
* Jon briefly mentions Google’s addition of podcasts to Google Play Music, which is a big deal for the world of podcasting
* Cody teases an announcement, which Jon fears may be an announcement of an announcement, which may just end up being a bunch of Vagueb...
2015-11-0543 minGame/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #122: IGN’s Top 100 Video Games Ever Made debate and discussionCody and Jon welcome video game enthusiast and broadcaster J.D. Fox to the podcast to praise and rage over IGN’s recently released list of the Top 100 Games Ever Made.
Photo credit: Axel Pfaender via Flickr
Show Notes:
Cody introduces video game enthusiast, veteran broadcaster and fellow Drake University alumnus J.D. Fox to the podcast. In groups of 10, Cody, J.D., and Jon review IGN’s list of the top 100 video games ever made, which follows:
100. The Walking Dead: Season One
99. Advance Wars
98. Perfect Dark
97. Galaga
96. The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker
2015-10-221h 51Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #120: Lifestyle update with Final Fantasy: Type-0 HD and moreCatch up with Cody and Jon as they talk life milestones, Devil in the White City, Hearthstone, Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, and Final Fantasy: Type-0 HD.
Photo credit: Diavolomezzo via Flickr
Show Notes:
* Cody talks microphones, acoustics, and what kind of podcast you can expect to hear
* Jon chastises Cody for not making enough Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney jokes when he interviewed Sam Castree III, Ace Attorney on the podcast
* Cody rants about how Radiolab ripped off his story about the Cryptolocker virus; Jon tries to debunk his theory of being...
2015-10-011h 00Game/Life Balance U.S.Video game law 101 with Sam Castree III, Ace AttorneyCody welcomes Sam Castree III, Ace Attorney, who discusses some fundamental legal needs of video game developers. Hear Sam walk Cody through the process of how a video game developer should select and leverage legal counsel from day one of development.
Show Notes:
* Sam Castree III, Ace Attorney, talks about how he got into practicing video game law, including an incident with a friend’s free-to-play game being ripped off and listed for sale by another company in Vietnam
* Sam briefly touches on the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) and how it applied to the situat...
2015-09-241h 08Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #119: Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain review (after 30 hours of gameplay)Cody gives a Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain review based on his first 30 hours of gameplay. Check out the first episode featuring Jon’s brand-new microphone, and hear him follow Cody’s review with a chat about Diablo 3, Hearthstone, and Bojack Horseman.
Show Notes:
* Cody kicks off the review by discussing the storyline of the series, including how accessible this game is to Metal Gear newcomers
* Jon asks about the new open world format of Metal Gear Solid V, and Cody addresses how the change in structure affects the feel of the series
* Cody de...
2015-09-171h 17Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #118: BitBash 2015, plus the CryptoLocker VirusCody explains the intricacies of the CryptoLocker ransomware trojan, and how he’s dealing with the effects. Plus, hear about all the games he played at BitBash 2015, Chicago’s alternative / indie games festival.
Show Notes:
* Cody explains why he’s recording a solo episode and what happened to his home PC
* Hear all about the CryptoLocker Virus, and what it will cost Cody to get rid of it so he can use his home computer again
* Cody discusses BitBash 2015, Chicago’s alternative games festival, including some background on the festival and how well he...
2015-09-031h 00Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #117: Metal Gear Solid V: Ground ZeroesJon Reviews Rocket League and Dying Light, and Cody reviews Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes. Plus: Jon’s thoughts on the science-fiction short story Flowers for Algernon, and Cody raves and rants about a couple sci-fi movies—both good and bad.
Show Notes:
* Jon and Cody talk about the most ridiculous technical difficulties ever, including ones that shouldn’t even exist
* Jon discusses his new-ish passion for reading books, and how he basically hates himself for not really reading books when he was young
* “Man. Books are really good.” -Quote of the episode
...
2015-08-201h 03Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #115: Customizable Card Games and LuckCody has a bone to pick with customizable card games, specifically Hearthstone, specifically the Hearthstone Arena, specifically the amount of luck involved in winning games in it. Plus, catch up on Jon’s progress in the massively multiplayer online RPG Final Fantasy XIV, and hear what the hosts have been up to in their spare time lately.
Show Notes:
* The Unqualified Gamers podcast is now on WGN Plus! Cody explains what that means for the show
* Jon describes his house hunting adventures
* Cody recounts the tale of his day job’s company picnic, and how a massi...
2015-07-241h 01Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #114: Final Fantasy XIV, unicycles & fruit fliesCody announces the exciting addition of the Unqualified Gamers Podcast to the WGN Plus lineup, and what that means for the podcast. Jon discusses Final Fantasy XIV after he and Cody are finished discussing such compelling topics as unicycles, fruit flies, downtown Rochester, and the unfortunate passing of Nintendo’s late President Satoru Iwata.
Show Notes:
* Cody speculates about why Jon always records episodes from a nondescript hotel room somewhere
* Cody makes a major announcement: Unqualified Gamers has joined WGN Plus!
* Jon disregards the announcement entirely to go on an unwarranted rant about unicycles and uni...
2015-07-1659 minGame/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #112: Crypt of the NecroDancer, Geometry Wars 3Jon reviews Crypt of the NecroDancer before he talks about his obsession with this year’s Final Fantasy V Four Job Fiesta. Hear whether he got a decent starting character, or if he’s just going to FAIL MISERABLY. Plus: Cody actually played video games this week, specifically Geometry Wars 3! And, of course, there’s some requisite Hearthstone talk in there, including Cody’s opinion on expansions Naxxramas and Blackrock Spire.
Show Notes:
* Jon talks about what it’s like to drive long distances with a baby
* Speaking of driving: Cody talks about driving from Chicago to North Ca...
2015-06-261h 14Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #111: E3 2015 recap, Steam Summer SaleJon recaps E3 2015, including press conferences from Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo, and he and Cody discuss their reactions to various announcements. Plus, hear what games Cody has purchased so far in the 2015 Steam Summer Sale!
Show Notes:
* Jon and Cody brace for a podcast with some vicious technical difficulties, and this time it’s actually Jon’s fault
* As they postulate which Elder God they angered to bring about their horrible luck with computers recently, Cody and Jon debate about how to pronounce the name of H.P. Lovecraft’s fictional character Cthulu
* Cody is sitting...
2015-06-111h 31Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #110: Martin Con 2015, summer moving updateIn this solo episode, Cody explains why he and Jon missed two weeks of podcasts. Hear about Martin Con, Cody’s new apartment, the new Mad Max movie, and everything else that’s been going (and is to come) this summer!
Click here to download this Unqualified Gamers podcast episode
2015-05-2935 minGame/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #107: Final Fantasy Record Keeper and Square-Enix RemakesJon reviews Square-Enix’s latest ports of Final Fantasy IV and Final Fantasy VI, and Cody brings it all back together by reviewing mobile game Final Fantasy Record Keeper. Plus: Cody’s first impressions of Supergiant Games’ 2014 release, Transistor.
Click here to download this Unqualified Gamers Podcast episode
Show Notes:
* Jon discusses the insanely graphic fatalities featured in the upcoming game Mortal Kombat X
* Jon gives a quick recap of the inner circles of hell from Dante’s “The Inferno”
* Cody explains the significance of the number 107 from his childhood
* Jon’s kid is still s...
2015-04-161h 17Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #106: Darrel TV becomes official Twitch channel of Unqualified GamersRyan from Darrel TV joins Cody and Jon to announce that he is becoming the official Twitch streamer / partner / something vaguely affiliated with/of the Unqualified Gamers! Meet Ryan for the second time and marvel at the insanity that ensues. Plus, hear Cody’s first impressions of Final Fantasy Record Keeper and Jon’s devious plan to beat every Final Fantasy game… again.
Click here to download this Unqualified Gamers Podcast episode
Show Notes:
-Cody introduces Ryan, host of Darrel TV, which is the new official Twitch stream affiliate partner whatever of Unqualified Gamers!
-Ryan answers...
2015-04-0258 minGame/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #105: Hyrule Warriors Multiplayer, Heroes of the Storm St. Patrick’s Day SpecialAfter introducing special guest host Gold “Danger” Frieza, Cody tells an awesome story about meeting a rock and roll legend, which Jon quickly tries to ruin. Then, Cody and his guest discuss the pros and cons of Hyrule Warriors multiplayer before Jon delves further into his experience playing the Heroes of the Storm open beta.
Click here to download this Unqualified Gamers Podcast episode
Show Notes:
* Cody introduces his surprise special guest for St. Patrick’s Day and explains that he will be drinking a Guinness on the podcast, since it is being recorded on St. Patrick’s...
2015-03-1955 minGame/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #104: Heroes of the Storm closed beta, MOBA recapJon has been playing the Heroes of the Storm closed beta, and he has a lot to say about it. Plus: tune in for a MOBA 101 recap, and hear how Jon thinks it’ll fare against other popular MOBAs like League of Legends and Dota 2!
Click here to download this Unqualified Gamers Podcast episode
Show Notes:
* Cody and Jon discuss what they’re hoping to accomplish on the show
* Minnesota is a tundra where nobody lives, and that is why the WiiU works better there than it does in Chicago; also, Cody is radioactive
* Dayl...
2015-03-121h 05Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #103: Dragon Age: InquisitionSpecial guest host Meredith Targaryen joins Cody and Jon to talk all things Dragon Age: Inquisition, including an overall perspective on the series. Plus: more Hyrule Warriors, and Cody talks a bit about the indie games he played at Itty Bitty Bash in Chicago.
Click here to download this Unqualified Gamers Podcast episode
Show Notes:
* Jon insists that he can “check in” and “get badges” on Twitter, which is asinine
* Cody introduces special guest host Meredith Targaryen, who loves dragons
* Meredith is literally the only girl in the universe who plays video games
* Meredith...
2015-03-0553 minGame/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #102: Hyrule Warriors, Ni No Kuni, Samurai ButterflyCody somehow convinced Jon to buy Hyrule Warriors, and Jon talked Cody into playing Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch. They discuss these console games before reviewing the mobile game Samurai Butterfly. Plus: learn more about Cody’s Amiibo collection, and hear which Flappy Bird ripoff may be the worst clone of all!
Click here to download this Unqualified Gamers Podcast episode
Show Notes:
* Cody has a 6-foot tall foam cutout of a video game character, who he supposes may be someone from Tekken (but is actually Mitsurugi from Soul Calibur)
* VGL is ac...
2015-02-271h 11Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #101: Hyrule Warriors DLC and Nintendo-woesCody rages about podcast hardware problems before he and Jon discuss the Nintendo NEW 3DS XL – Majora’s Mask Edition and Nintendo’s stance on Metacritic (plus the potential problems it presents). Then, Cody reviews Hyrule Warriors DLC.
Click here to download this Unqualified Gamers Podcast episode
Show Notes:
* The Mortal Kombat movie wasn’t that bad
* Cody goes on an angry rant about various computer issues he’s had
* Jon canceled his Comcast cable package, and for the first time in his life he doesn’t have cable TV
* Cody’s webcam breaks mid-podcas...
2015-02-191h 12Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #100: Special 100th Episode featuring the Gonna Geek NetworkCody and Jon celebrate their special 100th episode with guest appearances from members of the Gonna Geek Network and more! Plus, hear Cody wrestle with his video game habits as he delves deeper into Hearthstone: Heroes of Warcraft, and hear how Jon fared in his first multiplayer sessions of Don’t Starve.
Click here to download this Unqualified Gamers Podcast episode
Show Notes:
* Cody offers a whiskey toast to Jon for surviving 100 episodes with each other
* Jon explains his love for podcasts and why he wanted to start doing his own video game podcast
...
2015-02-121h 04Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #099: Star Realms and WarframeJon and Cody say hello to Ryan D., a fellow unqualified gamer, who gives his completely unqualified opinion on the Star Realms deckbuilding game! Plus, Jon talks about Warframe, and Cody reveals his latest gaming addiction!
Click here to download this Unqualified Gamers Podcast episode
Show Notes:
* Meet listener Ryan D., who identified all the foul language from early episodes of the Unqualified Gamers Podcast to help Cody clean up the archives!
* Cody, Jon and Ryan discuss how they don’t care about the Super Bowl at all
* Cody talks about how he got suc...
2015-02-051h 05Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #098: Listener Appreciation EpisodeIn their first ever listener appreciation episode, Cody and Jon tackle hard-hitting listener questions and address YouTube comments! Hear Jon recount his revelatory Comcast experience and listen to Cody vaguely outline plans for their website. Plus: Google Fiber, cross-platform play, video game pre-orders, crowdsourced games and more!
Click here to download this Unqualified Gamers Podcast episode
Show Notes:
* Jon’s Comcast nightmare story, referencing a Comcast nightmare cancellation story
* Google Fiber is coming to 4 new markets
* Cody explains his feelings about the Star Wars Holiday Special
* Cody explains why he re-joined Battle.net, and...
2015-01-291h 29Game/Life Balance U.S.Drunqualified Gamers Podcast #01: Cody drunkenly explains #GamerGateCody gets drunk and explains #GamerGate, its inherent problems, and why you can’t actually own a hashtag.
Click here to download this Drunqualified Gamers Podcast
2014-11-2020 minGame/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #085: Super Smash Bros for 3DS Demo ReviewCody Gough and Jonathan Martin discuss their first impressions of the Super Smash Bros for 3DS demo, in addition to speculating about cake and bar trivia.
Click here to download this Unqualified Gamers podcast
2014-09-1858 minGame/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #077: Shovel Knight Review and JRPG UpdateJon and Cody give a full Shovel Knight review, and Cody is quite happy with the game. Jon then gives an update on his Final Fantasy V Four Job Fiesta, and Cody checks in on his Bravely Default progress.
Click here to download this episode of Unqualified Gamers
2014-07-101h 22Game/Life Balance U.S.Unqualified Gamers #058.5: Cody on the Flappy Bird FiascoJon takes a sick day, leaving Cody to analyze the Flappy Bird fiasco, explain how he made it onto a list of Chicago’s Hottest Geek Guys of Winter, preview his Valentine’s Day, and complain about the stupid reason why he’s still waiting for his copy of Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII.
Click here to download this episode of Unqualified Gamers
2014-02-1353 minGame/Life Balance U.S.Unqualified Gamers #046: Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z, Dark Souls, Castlevania: Lords of ShadowZombies, vampires and souls, oh my! After much Halloween talk, Cody gives an E3 preview of Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z and Jon reviews the brutally difficult Dark Souls. Cody then teases his upcoming review of The Last Of Us (PS3) and he and Jon discuss the original Castlevania: Lords of Shadow. Cody also offers his E3 impressions of Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2. Plus, hear which host is really bad at saving games, and how that affected his experience with Pokemon Y and Final Fantasy VII in this jam-packed episode!
Click here to download this episode of Unqualified Gamers
2013-10-301h 28Game/Life Balance U.S.Unqualified Gamers #040: League of Legends 101 and Video Game Championship Wrestling on Twitch TVHear about how: Jon loves horror movies, Cody pre-ordered a Wind Waker HD WiiU, and the console wars are heating up again as a result of some ridiculous revelations. Plus, Cody and Jon explain why they will NOT be playing Grand Theft Auto V before Jon reviews and gives a League of Legends 101 (PC). Cody also discusses his favorite Twitch TV series, Video Game Championship Wrestling (VGCW).
Click here to download this episode of Unqualified Gamers
2013-09-181h 37Game/Life Balance U.S.Unqualified Gamers #037: WWF No Mercy at Gen-Con, Rogue Legacy, and Bioshock Infinite EndingJon and Cody describe their experience at Gen-Con 2013, including Cody’s participation in the WWF No Mercy (N64) and Smash Brothers: Impossible (Wii) tournaments. Jon then gives Rogue Legacy (Steam) a shining review before he and Cody FINALLY discuss the ending of Bioshock: Infinite (PS3 / Xbox 360 / Steam), which they’ve been teasing for several months. Plus: learn about the new definition of the word “literally!”
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2013-08-281h 06Game/Life Balance U.S.Unqualified Gamers #034: THE LOST EPISODEUnfortunately, this episode has been lost to the unforgiving gods of Corrupted Save Data. Feel free to listen to the first 20 seconds of this podcast, which sadly is all that Cody was able to recover from his archives despite his greatest efforts.In case you’re curious, here’s what happened in the original recording of this episode:
Jon explains Valve’s new trading card system that debuted during the Steam Summer Sale before he and Cody talk about Awesomenauts (PC), one of their favorite sale acquisitions. Cody also talks about Civilization IV (PC) and Jon introduces him to the Hum...
2013-08-0700 minGame/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #025: Sony Playstation 4 Video Game Console RevealJon and Cody discuss the highly anticipated press conference revealing the Sony Playstation 4, the first video game system of the next generation of console gaming. What does it mean for the future of video games? Only Jon and Cody can tell you. Yes, ONLY Jon and Cody.
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2013-02-2549 minGame/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #021: Borderlands 2 LIVE with Two Jons and a CodyJon, Cody, and Russian Jon play Borderlands 2 LIVE for your entertainment. Hear some hilarious banter, Cody’s initial impressions of some of the game mechanics, Jon Simon spontaneously break out into song, and a whole lot of Brock Lesnar in this special bite-sized podcast (only 10 minutes!).
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2013-01-2210 minGame/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #020: Final Fantasy VIII Low Level Run and Mass Effect 3, Plus Borderlands 2 First ImpressionsCody reviews his Final Fantasy VIII low level run (roughly 12-13 years late) before exploring the “Squall is Dead” Theory. Jon then reviews the single-player mode of Mass Effect 3 (PS3), and Cody and Jon discuss Borderlands 2 (PS3), which they’ve begun to play with one another online.
Here’s the 21:45 Ocarina of Time Speedrun Cody mentions in this episode, as well as the Super Mario 64 120-Star Speedrun Jon mentions. Enjoy!
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2013-01-071h 25Game/Life Balance U.S.U.Gamers Podcast #004: L.A. Noire, Final Fantasy XIII, DLC, Portal 2Jon delivers his follow-up review of L.A. Noire before delving into a discussion with Cody about the merits and pitfalls of downloadable content. Then, hear what Cody and Jon thought of Final Fantasy XIII as they anticipate the release of Final Fantasy XIII-2. Cody gives his final thoughts on Portal 2, after finally beating it.
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