Blowing Cartridges: Recent Episodes
Blowing Cartridges
A new gaming podcast where Brendan and Zach dive into the issues surrounding gaming culture and the games themselves.
On this episode we’re joined by a very special guest - Zach's mum Monica. Recorded just before Mother's Day 2026, we dive deep and discuss 25 years of Animal Crossing, a game which Zach and his mom share a special bond over.
We discuss each entry in the series and our respective experiences, highlighting what makes Animal Crossing a unique game with a wide cross generational appeal. We end the episode sharing our thoughts on what we would like from the series in the future.
Lastly, a very happy (and belated) Mother's Day for any mothers listening to our podcast!
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
On this episode we’re joined by Marcus O’Neill from Tiny Game Chronicles. We kick things off by getting Marcus to break down his shows before diving headfirst into the big question: what actually is a short game? Is it a couple of hours? A single sitting? Or just anything that doesn’t demand a lifestyle change?
From there, we get into what makes shorter games compelling, how retro titles managed to be both brutally difficult and over in an afternoon, and why that balance still works. Naturally, we touch upon the age-old “value for money” debate.
We also chat about whether critics are finally giving shorter experiences a fair shake and which genres feel tailor-made for a tighter runtime.
And, of course, we round things out by shouting out some of our favourite short games—the ones that didn’t overstay their welcome and left us wanting more.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Marcus - @marcusoneill79
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Having recently had the opportunity to visit the Pokémon x Natural History Museum experience in London, Brendan is grilled by self-professed Pokémon fanatic Zach on the experience. Tune in to hear all about the Pokémon pop-up store, alongside a discussion of the recent 'Game Worlds' exhibition which just finished its run at ACMI in Melbourne, Australia.
Consider this episode a time capsule of our respective experiences at each of these events.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
With Pokémon celebrating its 30th anniversary, we decided to mark this auspicious occasion by inviting Zach's friend Cam onto the podcast. Cam, who has experience playing both Pokémon video game and Pokémon TCG competitively, having previously attended a Pokémon Worlds in San Francisco, shares his experiences and memories of playing Pokémon competitively and the broader Australian scene.
Additionally, we all reflect on our experiences with the franchise, our thoughts on the newly announced generation and Zach's newly acquired miniature Gameboy that can play Pokémon music!
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Cam
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
On the latest episode of Blowing Cartridges, we were joined by Jon from Hype Factor: A Fantasy Critic Podcast for our second Fantasy Critic inspired podcast episode.
Do indie games automatically receive lower aggregate review scores than major triple A games? Are there definitive truths and maxims when trying to predict the future aggregate score for a video game? Are genre, publisher or developer overriding factors that add or subtract weight from an aggregate score? What are some of the 2026 games that we think are worth considering if you are a fantasy critic player? Tune in to hear our respective takes on these topics and more!
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Jon - @jon32.bsky.social
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
2025 was a year of highs and troubling lows for the gaming industry. Join us as with returning guest and friend of the show Mario (not that one) we break down everything that defined gaming this past year—from the fastest console launch in Nintendo history to the biggest leveraged takeover Wall Street has ever seen.
We explore the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 (3.5 million units in its first week), EA's $55 billion Saudi-led acquisition, and the ongoing wave of industry-wide layoffs. We discuss long-awaited releases like Hollow Knight: Silksong and Metroid Prime 4, discuss the $80 game pricing controversy, and examine the rise in prices in our hobby.
Finally, we discuss some of the major releases of 2025 - including our highlights on the year in gaming that was 2025.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
To start 2026 off with a topical bang, we dive into a topic close to the heart of every Nintendo fan. Is it possible to predict that airing of Nintendo Directs? Is there truly a pattern that Nintendo follows?
Joining us for this episode is Josh from Nintendo Maniacs and the House of Mario. Spreadsheet in hand, we briefly discuss the history of Nintendo Directs, how they have changed over the past 15+ years, and their ongoing legacy.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via Bluesky or X @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Josh- @Nintendomaniacs
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
As an early Christmas present for all our listeners, our annual Video Game Music (VGM) episode returns once again! As is the tradition, we are thrilled to have John back to join us as we dive into discussing and celebrating the nuances of VGM. This year, Zach has challenged us with the theme of his choice - loading screen/waiting music.
From heartwarming finales to epic outros with equally epic vocal accompaniments, we’re exploring the tracks that leave lasting impressions long after the game is over. Join us as we s
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
John - @AuraPaladin Sporcle - John's Video Game Music Quiz
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Tracks played in this episode:
Sanxion - Rob Hubbard (C64)
Loading Loop - The Sims
Paddock - Kirby Air Riders
Lobby - Fibbage 4
Systems Ready - Earthion
Loading 3 - MySims
Empire of Eternal Night (Central Park - Attack) - Marvel Rivals
The Burning Legion - World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade
Load Game - Stardew Valley
Preparations - Fire Emblem Engage
With the Xbox 360 celebrating its 20th birthday this year (and the original Xbox celebrating its 25th birthday next year), Microsoft's console endeavours appear at a crossroads. Whether they will continue producing dedicated console hardware remains an open question given their pivot towards a subscription model couple with publishing their games on non-Microsoft platforms.
Joined by returning guest Luke (Lvaneede), we trace our mutual experience with Xbox over the past 25 years, our thoughts on their past, present and future trajectory while also considering the question of what a console is - and whether everything truly can be a Xbox.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via Bluesky or X @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Luke - @adeeelnv
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Taking a trip down memory lane, we are joined by friend of the show Justin, who over a 15-year period collected every Nintendo 64 game released in Australia.
We dive deep into the highs, lows, surprises, and holy grails - as Justin shares what it really takes to track down the entire N64 library.
Grab your favourite three-pronged controller and blow the dust out of that cartridge. This one is for the collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone who still hears “It’s-a-me!” when they boot up a console.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Justin
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we take a closer look at the shoot 'em up (or shmup) genre, one of gaming’s oldest and most enduring genres. Joined by Sanatana Mishra, game developer at Witch Beam Games, we use his first-hand insight in developing Assault Android Cactus to have a wide-ranging discussion.
We discuss what defines a shmup, the key archetypes that make up the genre, and how these games have changed over time. Sanatana also offers thoughts on where the genre stands today and what its future might look like.
Whether you're familiar with shmups or just interested in learning more about a niche but influential corner of video game history, this episode offers an in-depth analysis of a genre that continues to evolve in its own way.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Sanatana Mishra - @witchbeam.com.au
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
On this special episode of Blowing Cartridges, we're joined by Drew Agnew, host of The House of Mario podcast, to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Super Mario.
We dive into the latest Nintendo Direct and unpack all the Mario-related announcements. Sharing our earliest and fondest memories of the mustachioed plumber, we reflect on Mario's continued staying power not just in gaming but as a multimedia phenomenon.
From 8-bit roots to theme parks and cinematic stardom, we discuss how far Mario has come and where he might go next. What could his 50th anniversary look like? Tune in as always to hear our thoughtful ramblings!
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we're joined by special guest NinStarRose—a former Australian competitive Mario Kart player, Mario Kart 8D AU/NZ Championship 2024 Finalist and Twitch streamer —to dive into the challenges and nuances of transitioning between new entries in multiplayer-focused games. Using Mario Kart as the main case study, we explore how changes in mechanics, balance, and community dynamics shape the player experience across generations. We also branch out to discuss Overwatch, League of Legends, World of Warcraft, Fortnite, and Super Smash Bros, examining how competitive players and casual fans alike adapt—or struggle to adapt—when their favorite games evolve.
Whether you're chasing leaderboards or just keeping up with your friends, this episode unpacks the dynamics of the ever-changing world of multiplayer gaming.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
NinStarRose - @NinStarRose Twitch
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we're joined by industry analyst from MST Financial David Gibson to dig into the investor side of the video game landscape. With the Nintendo Switch 2 shaking up the scene, coupled with a looming trade war and the price increases from Nintendo's competitors, we discuss the dynamics driving some of these trends.
From console pricing strategies to game development budgets, David brings his investment and market expertise, together with his knowledge of the gaming sector to break down how companies are responding to consumer trends, inflation, the cost of game and hardware development and the ever-changing global market.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
David - @Gibbogame
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this ad-hoc episode of Blowing Cartridges, Zach calls in from his holiday in Japan to discuss all things Nintendo, covering topics ranging from the Nintendo Museum, Super Nintendo World, shopping for Nintendo merchandise in Japan and how widely is the Nintendo Switch 2 being marketed in Japan.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
This week, we’re welcoming back our good friend Dave for a deep dive into the wild world of video game spinoffs — all inspired by the recent announcements of Kirby Air Riders and Donkey Kong Bonanza!
While we may be more confused that when we started this conversation, we delve into what exactly is a spin-off, can you differentiate spin-offs and sub-series and what makes a great spin-off stand out from the crowd. Plus, we get into the bigger picture: why spinoffs matter, what they bring to gaming, and when they can sometimes even outshine their original series and become established series in their own right.
Get ready for a nostalgic ride, plenty of heated (but friendly!) debate, and a lot of love for the weird and wonderful corners of gaming history.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Dave
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this episode, we're joined by Dan of Switchingitup_ for a full breakdown of the latest Nintendo Direct focused on the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2! We dive into our most hyped games from the showcase, dissect the highs and lows of the presentation, and look ahead to what the Switch 2 means for Nintendo’s near future.
Of course, we couldn’t avoid the big questions—pricing, potential tariffs, and whether Nintendo can strike the right balance as it transitions from what is projected to be the best-selling console of all time.
Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the world of Switch, this episode's packed with Nintedo-filled discussion, predictions, and a bit of healthy speculation.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Dan - @Switchingitup_
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
The Nintendo DS launched in Australia 20 years ago, and its impact on gaming still lingers today, being fondly remembered by a generation of past and current gamers. In this special retrospective, we’re joined by Ollie Brandt from Vooks.net to dive deep into the handheld that redefined not only portable gaming, but the wider gaming landscape.
We discuss the DS’s groundbreaking dual-screen design, its massive success in broadening the gaming audience, and the iconic titles that defined an era—from Brain Training to Pokémon, Mario Kart DS to The World Ends with You. We also share our personal memories of the console and explore its lasting legacy in Australia.
So dust off your stylus, charge up your old and battered DS, and join us for yet another nostalgia-packed episode of Blowing Cartridges!
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Oliver Brandt - @chocobalt.bsky.social
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
It’s time to plumbob up and reflect on one of the most iconic life-simulation games of all time! In this special 25th-anniversary episode of Blowing Cartridges, the crew takes a nostalgic (and sometimes chaotic) look back at The Sims—from its humble beginnings in 2000 to the global and enduring phenomenon it is today, sustaining a vibrant and diverse community of content creators and enthusiasts.
Joining us for this Sim-tacular celebration is the Australian content creator, EA Partner and noted Sims 4 Builder Jeyjeybinks! Together, we reminisce about our first Sims memories, the franchise’s lasting impact on gaming culture, and what the current Sims landscape. Plus, we break down the evolution of the series, the most iconic expansion packs (aka Hot Date), and what we hope to see in the future.
So, grab your rosebud cheat codes, watch out for pool ladders, and tune in for another episode of Blowing Cartridges!
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Jeyjeybinks - Jeyjeybinks Linktree
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
With the reveal of the Switch 2 and its surprising mouse functionality, it’s the perfect time to dive headfirst into the weird and wonderful world of video game gimmicks. Joined by friend of the show Dave, we unpack what exactly makes something a “gimmick,” and take a nostalgic (and occasionally cringe-inducing) trip through gaming history — from the motion-controlled highs of the Nintendo Wii to the camera-based chaos of the PlayStation EyeToy, and the curious cardboard days of the Nintendo e-Reader.
We also ponder the eternal question: when does a gimmick become a gaming staple? Is innovation always a good thing, or are some ideas better left in the tech graveyard? And of course, we try our hand at predicting what the future of gaming gimmicks might hold.
Plug in, power up, and join us for a lively (and gimmick-packed) discussion!
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Dave
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we dive into the high-stakes world of gambling in video games. With the recent changes to the Australian Classification Board (ACB) ratings, lootboxes and gambling mechanics are under greater scrutiny than ever. Are these changes enough to protect players, or just another regulatory speed bump for the industry?
Joining us for this discussion is our special guest, Sam, who brings firsthand experience in Victorian gambling regulation. We break down the dimensions of gambling and regulation in video games, what the current landscape looks like, and what possible changes we think should be enacted to make a positive change to the industry.
So, is the house always winning? Or are we finally seeing real change? Tune in to find out!
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Sam
https://azhdarchid.com/you-do-not-gotta-hand-it-to-mihoyo/#fn-4
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
As 2024 comes to a close, Zach and Brendan sit down with special guest Kieran of Hopk Gaming to reflect on the biggest gaming moments of the year. From groundbreaking releases to industry lay-offs, studio purchases and closures, we break down the headlines, the hits, and the flops that defined the past 12 months.
What were the standout games? Which surprises caught us off guard? And what does it all mean for the future of video games? Join us for a deep dive into the year that was 2024!
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Kieran - Hopk Gaming
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
It’s that time of year again! Our annual Video Game Music (VGM) episode returns, and we’re thrilled to have John back on the mic. This year, we’re diving into one of VGM's most memorable track types: end credit tunes.
From heartwarming finales to epic outros with equally epic vocal accompaniments, we’re exploring the tracks that leave lasting impressions long after the game is over. Join us as we share our top 2 personal favorites, together with our favourite from 2024, break down the artistry of these closing themes, and discuss how they elevate a game’s narrative and emotional impact.
Whether you're here for the nostalgia, the hidden gems, or just some good tunes, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Plug in, press start, and let’s roll the credits in style!
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
John - @AuraPaladin Sporcle - John's Video Game Music Quiz
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, Brendan and Zach team up with special guest Josh Whittington to revisit the magical (and slightly expensive) world of the Toys to Life phenomenon that defined much of the early 2010s in gaming.
From the groundbreaking launch of Skylanders to the imaginative universe of Disney Infinity and the ambitious crossover chaos (to one's wallet) of Lego Dimensions, the trio examines what made these franchises so captivating—and why the bubble eventually burst. They also discuss the enduring legacy of Nintendo’s Amiibo, and the similarities and differences it held with other toys to life ventures.
Whether you were a dedicated portal master, a Disney superfan, or a Nintendo tragic with boxes filled with amiibo, this nostalgic journey has something for everyone. Tune in for deep dives, shared memories, and a few laughs about those long-gone shelves full of plastic figurines!
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Josh - @Mario_Bones Irreverently Irrelevant
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this jam-packed episode of Blowing Cartridges, special guests Josh, Chase, Alex, and Gookanheimer join Zach and Brendan to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as they explore the history of Nintendo connection tours in Australia. From the prize-filled and goodies rich roadshows of the 2000s, the expanded crew shares their personal experiences and favorite memories of these iconic events.
The conversation then shifts to the present as they dive into Nintendo Live Australia 2024, held in Sydney this past September. They break down the highlights (queues and statues) and the lowlights (queues) of the event, reflecting on how the current landscape of one off events and larger conventions such as PAX compare to the pre 2011 era of Nintendo Connection tours.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Alex - @MarioMaster94
Josh Crowley - @jcrowleydev
Chase
Gookenheimer
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we sit down with Australian video game journalist and developer, James O'Connor, to discuss his upcoming book Untitled Goose Game, soon to be published by Boss Fight Books. Available to back on Kickstarter, the book delves into the game's development and cultural impact.
In the first half of the interview, James shares insights into the writing process, his experience discussing the game with House House, the developers of the game, and his approach of capturing both the magic of Untitled Goose Game and the broader landscape of video game creation in contemporay Australia. The second half of the episode focuses on the game itself, exploring its unique design, charm, and the playful mischief that made it a global sensation. Whether you're a fan of the game or curious about video game journalism, this episode offers an entertaining and informative dive into the world of Untitled Goose Game.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
James- @Jickle: Boss Fight Books: Season 7 - Video Game Pioneers by Gabe Durham — Kickstarter
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we dive into the world of video game movie tie-ins with special guest Luke of Maxi-Geek and Vookcast fame! Join us as we explore the highs and lows of games inspired by blockbuster movies, from the iconic classics such as Goldeneye to the notorious flops such as Minority Report.
The trio chart the trajectory of such adaptations, including the rise in the 2000s of the video game sequel to an existing film, discussing why they believe video game tie-ins have decreased in frequency and what they believe the future may have in store!
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Luke - @Maxi-Geek
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this nostalgia-packed episode of Blowing Cartridges, we dive into the history of video game rentals, from their rise in the '80s and '90s to their eventual decline. Special guest Mark, a former Video Ezy employee from the 2000s, joins hosts Zach and Bremdan to share insider stories from behind the counter.
They discuss their own memories and experiences of renting games, the excitement of discovering new titles every weekend, and the challenges that ultimately led to the end of an era. Tune in for a trip down memory lane that highlights the role rentals played in shaping our gaming experiences.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this cosy episode of Blowing Cartridges, we explore the delightful world of wholesome and cosy games. Joined by podcaster and streamer FulishFuji, we delve into the charm and appeal of these games that offer comfort, relaxation, and a soothing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. FulishFuji shares personal favorites, discusses the impact of cosy games on mental well-being, and provides insights into the growing popularity of this genre. Tune in for an episode filled with genre discussions and gaming recommendations as we analyse what exactly a wholesome game is.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
FulishFuji- fulishfuji.carrd.co
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Gamers may have noticed that over the recent month there has been a plethora of video game announcements, as platform holders and other groups have hosted a number of gaming showcases. Many new games have been announced, alongside further information being provided about previously revealed games.
In this episode we're thrilled to welcome Alex Harding, the mind behind the IndiEXP, an Australian marketing agency dedicated to the promotion of indie games. Dive into the dynamic world of video game marketing as Alex shares his knowledge and experience on the dynamics of promoting indie games in the current market.
We discuss the key strategies that can make or break a game's launch, from leveraging social media and influencer partnerships to creating compelling trailers and engaging with gaming communities. The trio also reflect on memorable gaming trailers and announcement, and what they believe compelling video game marketing is.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Alex- @theindiexp alex@theindiexp.com
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this episode of the Blowing Cartridges Podcast, we celebrate 25 years of Super Smash Bros, Nintendo's iconic crossover fighting game series that has captivated gamers since its debut in 1999. Join our hosts, alongside special guests Alex and Paul as they dive into the rich history of the franchise, from its humble beginnings on the Nintendo 64 to its latest iteration on the Nintendo Switch. We explore the game's evolution, memorable characters, and groundbreaking mechanics that have made it a beloved staple in the gaming community.
This episode also delves into the passionate division between Super Smash Bros Melee and other entries in the series. Our hosts examine why Melee, released for the GameCube in 2001, has maintained a fiercely loyal competitive scene, and how it differs in gameplay, speed, and technical complexity from its successors. We'll discuss the lasting impact of Melee on the competitive landscape and its role in shaping the community's culture.
Additionally, we shine a spotlight on the Australian competitive Smash community. From grassroots events to international recognition, the Australian Smash scene has carved out its own vibrant niche in the global gaming arena.
Tune in for nostalgic reflections, expert analysis, and exciting discussions on what the future might hold for this legendary series.
Join us for an immersive journey into the richly detailed world of "Pentiment," the critically acclaimed narrative RPG, developed by Obsidian Entertainment and first released in 2022. In this episode, your hosts delve deep into the game's unique art style, historical setting, and intricate storytelling. We're thrilled to welcome a special guest, Buck, a self-describe 'Pentiment sicko', who brings his experience and engaging commentary to the discussion. Discover how "Pentiment" masterfully intertwines art, history, and mystery to create an unforgettable gaming experience.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Buck - @Bucklepuff
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, our hosts, joined by returning guest Mario, dive deep into the captivating world of Metroidvania games. From the atmospheric depths of "Castlevania: Symphony of the Night" to the futuristic exploration of "Metroid Prime," they unravel the intricate design and evolution of Metroidvanias, particularly over the past fifteen years.
Join them as they dissect the core elements that define a Metroidvania experience, from interconnected level design to unlocking new abilities that open up previously inaccessible areas. They reminisce about classic titles that pioneered the genre and discuss how modern interpretations have expanded upon its foundation.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Mario
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Join the Blowing Cartridges Podcast for an episode featuring Brian Costelloe, aka Sincespacies, as he takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through the world of Sega gaming in Australia. From his time working at the iconic Sega Hotline to sharing anecdotes about classic Sega titles and hardware, Brian offers firsthand insights into the unique experiences and challenges faced by Australian gamers during the Sega era. This episode provides a glimpse into the continuing legacy of Sega in Australia, making it a must-listen for retro gaming enthusiasts and Sega fans alike.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Brian Costelloe - @Sincespacies
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this episode of the Blowing Cartridges Podcast, we were thrilled to be joined by Nick Cellini, to talk all about his Australian indie studio Turtle Flip Studio and their upcoming game 'Which Way Up.' Join us as we discuss all things related to indie game development in Australia. Nick details his journey in the games industry, shares his design approach and philosophy as well as the challenges he has faced in the development journey of Which Way Up, which is set to release in Q1 2025.
Try the demo or Wishlist Which Way Up on Steam today! https://t.co/5xZED37jUc
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Nick Cellini - @nfcellini @WhichWayUpGame
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, hosts Zach and Brendan, complete neophytes when it comes to all things cosplay, invite Ria and Mes, two experienced cosplayers, to explore the world of cosplay, which has increasingly become a vital part of not only gaming culture, but broader entertainment culture, establishing itself as the outward face of the majority of pop culture and gaming conventions.
The discussion spans various aspects of cosplaying, including how they started in the hobby, competitive scene, favorite memories, and upcoming projects. Mes and Ria offer valuable insights into not only the challenges of crafting costumes bringing characters to life, but also the broader aspects of what makes cosplaying appealing to those fully immersed in the hobby, as well as some tips for those who may be looking to get started cosplaying.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter/X @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Ria - @Gaming_Goddess_
Mes - @Fluto_Cosplay
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In our first recorded episode of 2024, we were excited to be joined by another first-time guest, Buddy Watson, a veteran of Australian video game podcasts, to discuss the year in gaming that was 2023. Addressing issues and topics such as record-level layoffs, film adaptations of video games, the increasing digitalisation of gaming media and our favourite games of the year, we finish with some wild predictions of what some of the highlights/lowlights of gaming in 2024 will be.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Buddy Watson - @BuddyWatson12
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
This year we are mixing it up! We are back again for our annual VGM special, but this time with a twist. Zach has devised a new format where each of the three participants were tasked with drafted four composers in a snake draft, each assembling a dream team of composers.
So sit back and listen as the trio discuss a wide range of composers from the last 30+ years of video game composition. Additionally, let us know who you think assembled the 'best' slate of composers!
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
John - @AuraPaladin
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Composers Drafted:
Brendan:
Koji Kondo: - Yoshi's Island Final Boss - Yoshi's Island (1995)
Jeremy Soule - Dragonborn - Skyrim (2011)
Austin Wintory - End Credits - Stray Gods: The Role Playing Musical (2023)
Motoi Sakuraba - The Valedictory Elegy - Guitar Version - Baten Kaiten Kaitos Origins (2006)
Zach:
David Wise - Current Capers: Aquatic Ambience - Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze (2014)
Yoko Shimomura - Fight Against Monsters - Super Mario RPG (2023)
Toby Fox - Final Boss Battle Music - Pokemon Scarlet & Violet (2022)
Masakazu Sugimori - Ghost Trick (Arranged) - Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective (2023)
John:
Nobuo Uematsu - Rebel Army - Final Fantasy 2 (1988)
Lena Raine - Harmony - Harmony the Fall of Reverie (2023)
Jun'ya Ōta (ZUN) - The Deviants' Unobstructed Light: Kingdom of Nothingness - Touhou 19 UDoALG (2023)
Tee Lopes - Lagoon City Zone - Sonic Superstars (2023)
Joined by special guest Ben from Qualbert.com, this episode Zach and Brendan dive into a discussion regarding the past, present and future of the video game journalism landscape in Australia. How different is the media we consume (and how we consume) compared to when this trio were growing up in the late 90s/early 2000s? How do these experiences shape the media we consume and produce?
Ben shares his insight and experience of building an enthusiast, volunteer-run gaming news and review website, together with transitioning into the gaming industry as a career.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Ben- @Qualbert
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
First launching in mid-2020 during the height of the pandemic, Blowing Cartridges has hit its 50th episode! We would like to thank all our listeners for supporting our journey, tuning in to each episode and suggesting to your friends to listen to our podcast!
To celebrate, Brendan and Zach decided to invite friends of the show and semi-regular guests Drew from the House of Mario and Josh from Nintenvania to discuss their podcast journey, their overall experience in running Blowing Cartridges and some tentative musings on what the future may bring as Blowing Cartridges continues into 2024 and beyond!
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Josh - @Nintenvania
Drew - @iDrewby
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Game development in contemporary Australia is a vibrant and ever-growing industry, led by a strong and innovative indie developer scene. Yet the sector has a long and turbulent history of periodic rapid growth and subsequent decline.
Taking a step back to the mid-to-late 2000s, on this episode Andrew Hung joined Zach and Brendan to discuss his journey as a game developer that saw him credited on 8 games between 2005-2009. Working for Transmission Games and then subsequently EA Melbourne Studios (Visceral Games Australia), Andrew reflects on his experiences of entering game development, the transition between hardware generations, generalities regarding the development process itself and his eventual exit from the industry in the aftermath of the GFC, contributing to one of the podcast's most compelling episodes yet.
So strap in and hear all about Australian-developed sports games, WWII flight combat simulators, and even a brief comment on the cancelled Dead Space 2 Wii port.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Andrew - Andrew Hung - MobyGames
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Roleplaying games (RPGs) have a rich history as a genre in video games, with some of the earliest and most influential video games being RPGs. Directly inspired by Dungeons and Dragons, games such as Ultima and Wizardry, to more modern games like Baldurs Gate 3, Skyrim, the Witcher Starfield and the ever-present World of Warcraft dominate much of the discourse surrounding video games.
While previously, Zach and Brendan have discussed 'JRPGs', which is arguable a genre in its own right, in this episode Brendan, Zach and their guest Mario (not the guy with a red hat and blue overalls) dive into an in-depth discussion exploring what some term 'Western' or 'Computer' RPGs, discssing their respective experiences and some of their favourite games as well as the current landscape and what direction they believe western/computer RPGs are heading in.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Mario - @Termstar (Discord and Steam)
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Since its inception in 2013, Pax Australia has become an established pillar of the Australian video game landscape. Every year, tens of thousands flock to Melbourne to celebrate all things gaming and gaming culture, from the latest blockbuster video games, to the offerings of the ever-growing Australian Indie scene, to cosplay, industry and enthusiast panels, boardgames and more.
But what does PAX mean to us, and why do we continue to attend every single year (when able to do so?). Joining Zach and Brendan to reminisce about our respective experiences at PAX Aus is friend of the show Loc, who, like Zach, has attended every PAX since 2013. The trio dived deep into every single PAX Australia, discussing the various highlights and memorable moments of a decade of PAX Australia.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In the late 2000s rhythm games were everywhere. Spurred on by the Guitar Hero & Rock Band craze it seems that nearly all games had a plastic instrument or two awkwardly propped up in their cupboards or surrounding their gaming setups.
While this craze is long dead, alongside Guitar Hero and a much-diminished Rock Band, rhythm games still exist in a variety of forms. In this genre-specific episode, Brendan and Zach are joined by plastic instrument enthusiast Rickie to discuss all things rhythm.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Rickie - @FuzzySelenium
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Shigeru Miyamoto's favourite oddly shaped leaf creatures are once again back in Pikmin 4, release in July 2023. But what exactly is a 'Pikmin' and why has the franchise continued over the past two decades? What makes it a unique and compelling experience that attracts a small but seemingly growing fanbase?
As Brendan is a Pikmin neophyte, joining the regular crew this episode is Josh from Nintenvania, whose passion for Pikmin rivals that of Zach. Starting with the first game released in 2001, the trajectory of the series is discussed, culminating in a discussion of all things Pikmin 4.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Josh - @ Nintenvania
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
With the popularity of Baldur's Gate 3, the topic of 'save scumming', resetting a game to get an optimal outcome and whether its the 'right thing to do' has come to the forefront.
Thus Zach and Brendan dive into an in-depth discussion about save scumming, describing the different dynamics and situations in which it appears in gaming, and whether they themselves are save scummers.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Last month in July 2023, the Video Game History Foundation released a report that suggests 87% of games released pre-2010 in the US are unplayable.
Thus, Brendan dons his history hat and alongside his Zach, dives into discussing whether this matters, what are the dynamics at play relating to making games available to play for future generations and ultimately what are the respective roles of industry and non-industry actors in this environment.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
And we are back after an almost 6 month unplanned hiatus! Please let us know if we have been missed!
On this episode, Zach and Brendan join the discussion that was kicked off just prior to the release of Baldur's Gate 3 - is it 'fair' to judge other RPGs/CRPGs to Baldur's Gate 3 given the resources and status of Larian Studios, the developer and publisher of the game? Based on a series of tweets by indie dev Xalavier Nelson Jr the subsequent conversation received much attention in the gaming media. Thus, the indominable duo as always dive in headfirst to give their thoughts on the topic.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
On this episode, Zach and Brendan are joined by friend of the show Drew Agnew from the House of Mario to discuss the year that was 2022. Tune in to hear the trio's experiences with gaming over the past year, their gaming highlights, why Vladimir Putin is a fan of Shantae and what they are looking forward to in 2023.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Drew - @iDrewby
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
As has become a yearly tradition for Blowing Cartridges, special guest and friend of the show John Dewis once again joins Zach & Brendan to once again discuss video game music.
On this episode, the trio have drawn from the hallowed vaults of video game music their favourite battle music tracks from 2022 and beyond. So tune in to find out what they believe makes a good battle track, why all their picks aren't from turn based JRPGs/RPGs and what their three track picks are.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
John - @AuraPaladin Luke's 3DS Youtube Special
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Music Played:
Viola Battle Theme: Gh()st - composed by Naofumi Harada, performed by Mikaila Delgado - Bayonetta 3 (2022)
Fight or Flight - composed by Machine Girl - Neon White (2022) - NME Article on soundtrack
Keves Battle - composed by Kenji Hiramatsu - Xenoblade Chronicles 3 (2022)
Blinded by Light - Composed by Ryo Yamazaki - Final Fantasy XIII (2009)
Rude Buster - Composed by Toby Fox - Deltarune: Chapter 1 (2018)
Galleons - Composed by Duane Decker - Rise of Nations (2003)
Normal Duel - Composed by Ichirō Shimakura - Pokemon: Trading Card Game (1998)
Play the Hero (Chipp Zanuff's Theme) - Composed by Daisuke Ishiwatari - Guilty Gear Strive
True Mirror - Composed by Motoi Sakuraba - Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean (2003)
Eternity: - Composed by Nobuo Uematsu, Lyrics by Hironobu Sakaguchi, Vocals by Ian Gillan - Blue Dragon (2006)
Battle Theme - Composed by Yoshito Sekigawa, Shoh Murakami, Yoshiaki Kimura, Hiroki Morishita, Fumihiro Isobe - Paper Mario: The Origami King (2020)
11 Years ago, in March 2011 the Nintendo 3DS was launched. After selling over 75 million consoles, 11 years later the 3DS is no longer found in stores, and the console's online store, the Nintendo eShop will be taken offline on March 27, 2023.
On this episode, Brendan and Zach are joined by friend of the show Luke to discuss their respective thoughts and experiences with the 3DS. Topics discuss include Nintendo's announcement of the system, the consoles key features, and favourite games together with eShop exclusives that they suggest people should check out before the eShop is closed forever.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Luke - @adeeelnv Luke's 3DS Youtube Special
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Remember fond memories of pushing your older brother off a couch as he was about to beat you for the fifteenth time on Rainbow Road on the N64? Recall forcing your friends to use the third-party controller of dubious quality when they came over to play games with you?
Joined by Josh from the Podcast Nintenvania, this episode revolves around co-operative gaming, specifically that of local, 'couch' multiplayer experiences that is arguably currently enjoying a resurgance after a 'dark age' in the late 2000s/early 2010s.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Josh - @nintenvania
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In the context of PAX Aus 2022 and the commentary surrounding the limited presence of major publishers on the show floor, Zach and Brendan take a dive to discuss the growing commercial role indie games have in the current gaming landscape.
Particularly focusing on the realm of consoles, the discussion focuses on the strengths of indie games, why they aren't going anywhere and ultimately the synergy in the relationship they hold with 'AAA' games.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Political systems are all around us in everyday life, but how are they represented in video games? From masquerading as tech upgrades in strategy games to providing overlays for games like SimCity, references to politics litter the gaming landscape.
Brendan, using his finest rambling techniques, takes Zach along for a wide ranging discussion on how political systems appear and are represented in gaming.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Why is speedrunning a phenomenon in gaming that holds such high regard? Is there a difference between skill-based completing a game as quickly as possible or finding glitches to exploit to 'unnaturally' cut the length of a game down? What is the attraction of setting artificial limitations on oneself when playing a game?
It is these questions and more that Zach and Brendan attempt to dive into on this episode of Blowing Cartridges.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In a belated Easter special episode, Brendan and Zach conduct a deep dive into video game Easter Eggs. Starting with a overview of the history of Easter Eggs and the duo's favourite examples, this episode quickly devolves into a lengthy discussion about one infamous Easter Egg in particular - Totaka's song
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Often in conversations amongst gaming enthusiasts, 'simple games' are viewed with contempt as preference is given to large, cinematic and seemingly complex experiences. But are mobile games really inherently different to console and PC games? Are simple games really simplistic or is there a hidden depth in this experiences that makes them compelling to play.
Joining Zach and Brendan for this episode is friend of the show Will, who recently posted a video on his youtube channel Unicycle's Game Room on this very topic.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Will - @Unicycles Unicycle's Game Room
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Thus far, the video game industry in 2022 has been marked by a number of acquisitions amongst the major gaming industry publishers and platform holders. From Microsoft acquiring Activision to Sony acquiring Bungie, it appears that the industry is increasingly consolidating before our eyes.
Joining Brendan and Zach to discuss this topic is Matt Sainsbury from Digitally Downloaded, who has been notably outspoken regarding the trajectory of the gaming industry which this current slate of acquisitions suggests it is heading towards.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Matt - Patreon; Digitally Downloaded
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Throughout the history of Blowing Cartridges, Brendan and Zach have often conversed about assessing whether a game is good based on a number of criteria ranging from review scores to gameplay mechanics and narrative design. However, the question remains: how does one predict whether a game will be good?
Joining the duo for this episode to discuss this topic is Steve, the creator of Fantasy Critic, a browser 'fantasy football' like game where players compete by drafting games, with scores determined by the respective game's Opencritic average score.
Fantasy Critic Patreon
Zach & Brendan's Fantasy Critic League
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Steve - @fantasy_critic
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or via email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Upon release in 2020 on the Nintendo Switch, Paper Mario the Origami King received a mixed response from critics and fans. Whilst enjoyed by many, it quickly found itself in the middle of the storm that has been raging since Nintendo changed the Paper Mario formula after the much beloved Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door on Gamecube.
So buckle up, put on your favourite headphones and listen as the duo their views on this already overlooked Nintendo game.
Music used are the following tracks from the Paper Mario: The Origami King OST:
Main Title Theme
Peach's Castle
Bob-omb Enters
Disco Devil
The Great Sea
Event Battle
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
2021 was a year of returns in gaming, with a number of fan favourite franchises making their respective comebacks. However, there was an undercurrent of feeling that Coronavirus continued to exert a not so insignificant impact on the release schedule of games.
Thus Brendan and Zach dive into giving a recap of the realm of gaming in 2021, briefly discussing the major industry events that occurred and then tackling their personal favourite games of the year.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Special guest and friend of the show John Dewis once again joins Zach & Brendan to once again discuss video game music. This time, the focus is on the role that title music plays in crafting a gaming experience and how developers use music to entice players into their game and convey elements or themes that the game itself attempts to confront.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
John - @AuraPaladin
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Music Played:
Title Screen - WarioWare: Get it Together! - Takeru Kanazaki, Yoshito Sekigawa, Shoh Murakami, Daichi Ishihara, Shingo Kataoka, Kanji Hirao & Genki Namura https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7a2qECXt4PY
Unpacking Theme - Unpacking - Jeff Van Dyck https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnqqO3aZC9s
Age of Empires IV Main Theme - Age of Empires IV - Tilman Sillescu, Alexander Röder, Henning Nugel, Armin Haas, Mikołaj Stroiński https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TVRRN2CMzk
Title Screen - Terraria - Scott Lloyd Shelly https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFmnZ6VMd_4
Main Title - Wave Race 64 - Kazumi Totaka https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rz9eYvuZOYg
Main Theme - Xenoblade Chronicles - Yoko Shimomura https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erKkWGfEW9U
Title - CrossCode - Deniz Akbulut https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmWJ3M25F_w
Main Theme - Moving Out - Danny Hey https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HR75-jDmVRQ
Moving Out and Grooving Out - IGN Article
Halo Theme - Marty O'Donnell https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jXTBAGv9ZQ
Sydney Youth Orchestra Halo Arrangement
Secret Final Track
Ever wondered what separates a "JRPG' from other "RPGs"? Why do we place what appears to be a geographic designator on a particular type of video games? What are the characteristics and elements that are fundamental to a JRPG?
Joining the usual duo of Brendan and Zach for this episode is Matt S of digitallydownloaded.net to assist in conducting a deep dive into the genre. Matt offers a wealth of experience, and we definitely recommend his reviews of many contemporary JRPGs, which can be found on his website. The trio discuss their experiences with the genre, some of their favourite games and why they believe it is a genre worthy of attention.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Matt - Digitally Downloaded
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Metroid is a series that is close to the heart of a multitude of Nintendo fans, many of whom have been eagerly awaiting a follow up to 2002's Metroid Fusion. Metroid Dread, unexpectedly unannounced earlier in 2021 instantly sent excitement through the Nintendo enthusiast community.
Now that Dread has released and has been played by millions of players, the question remains, does it live up to both the Metroid franchise and the genre that the series (partially) lends its name to: Metroidvania. Brendan and Zach, joined by friend of the show and Metroidvania enthusiast Josh to unpack a number of questions relating to a game that has sparked much conversation in 2021.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Josh - I hear Morse code might work
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Mercdroid Dread' by Josh
Over the last decade, boardgaming has made a resurgence in the popular imagination. From social phenomenon Cards against Humanity to the advent and wild success of crowdfunding, it feels that boardgames have never been more popular or widespread. Indeed, many video gamers have increasingly become boardgame enthusiasts, with conventions such as PAX revealing the overlap that exists within the respective userbases.
This episode, joined by friend of the show QC, Brendan and Zach detail their experience with boardgames, why they believe it has taken off as a medium, and with the assistance of QC's infinite knowledge of all things boardgaming, recommend a number of different games that are perfect for the tabletop/boardgame neophyte to dip their toes in with.
Games recommended in the latter part of the episode:
-Ticket to Ride
-Coup
-Twilight Struggle
-Sabatour
-Codenames
-Just One
-Mysterium
-Dixit
-Telestrations
-Times Up
-The Fuzzies
-Azul
-Lanterns
-King of Tokyo
-Burgle Bros
-Between Two Cities
-Arboretum
-Unfair
-Funfair
-Sushi Go
-Cacao
-Barenpark
GUF Studio's Kickstarter - Floating Floors (Floating Floors by Guf Studios - Stella, Karl, & Mark — Kickstarter)
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
QC - @priority_q
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Just over 20 years ago, the Gamecube launched in Japan, marking an auspicious event in the lives of the two hosts of Blowing Cartridges. The Nintendo Gamecube was the childhood console for both Zach and Brendan, representing many formative moments in both their respective gaming journeys.
Joining them on this episode is Gookanheimer, a dear friend of the show from the Aussie-Nintendo/Another-Castle days. The trio dive into their experiences with the Gamecube, the wacky attachments (such as microphones and bongos, their top three games for the console as well as what they believe the console represents today, 20 years after it hit the gaming landscape.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Gookanheimer - Unknown
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
One of the impacts of the last 20 months of rolling lockdowns has been the growth of particular games. From Fall Guys, to Animal Crossing and Among Us, various games have gone viral and managed to captivate audiences outside of the traditional gaming demographic.
In this context, Zach and Brendan approach their latest cartridge that offerings an interesting proposition - is there a video game for everyone? Can you introduce your non-gaming friends and family to your favourite hobby or is it a fools errand? Tune in to hear the duo's thoughts.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Have a favourite game that you'll constantly go back to when you're feeling a bit down? Is there a particular gaming franchise that compels you to camp outside your local EB Games to secure a copy of its latest release? Zach and Brendan attempt to unpack the impact that nostalgia exerts on gaming, the manner in which it is both successfully and unsuccessfully utilised by publishers and developers and how it can directly impact our thoughts and opinions on a particular game.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Content creation forms an important pillar of modern video game culture. Booming over the past 10-15 years, it has never been easier to stream your own gameplay or upload your own videos to youtube. But why do an increasing amount of gamers embark upon such a journey?
Joining Brendan and Zach this episode is streamer Anzu and Vtuber Shino to discuss the challenges around streaming, why people both watch and make streaming content and the role streaming plays in marketing particular games and growing the influence of eSports.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Anzu - @anzuakigaming (Check out https://www.twitch.tv/anzuaki)
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
From "My uncle works at Nintendo" to the existence of the Dreamcast 2, video game rumours have captured the imagination of enthusiasts and fans alike. With the recent announcement of the Switch OLED, that dashed many dreams that people held surround the "Switch Pro" and rampant speculation over what Hideo Kojima is up to next, this is a topic that has never been more relevant. Zach and Brendan, joined by first-time special guest Dash, dissect this rumour-fueled cartridge and outline their respective beliefs regarding the role of rumours in the gaming media.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Dan "Dash" Rizzo - @Dashgamer (Check out www.dashgamer.com)
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
How long a game takes to complete is an indicator that occupies and important position in the gaming lexicon. With sites like howlongtobeat.com and common assertions that a game needs to be a particular length to be worth "$60" this poses a fascinating area of gaming culture to explore.
In true Blowing Cartridges style, this particular cartridge represents our shortest regular episode yet. Does this diminish the value of our podcast? Do let us know!
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Zach and Brendan, with returning guest Luke, revisit a topic from an early episode of the podcast: E3. With the event being held online for the very first time due to the ongoing pandemic, the trio assess the successes and failings of E3 2021 and ponder the future of what many gaming enthusiasts have considered the premier event on the gaming industry calendar.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Luke - @adeeelnv (Check out his N-Gage Collection: https://youtu.be/2KENSHIPWrw)
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Since the trainwreck that was the Super Mario Bros Film, movie adaptations of films have never quite emerged from the sea of mediocrity they find themselves mired in. Similarly, gaming culture itself have inspired a plethora of films, yet many of them too fall short. Why is this? The Blowing Cartridges co-hosts, Brendan and Zach, have been dispatched to investigate this phenomenon.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
From demo CDs on the front covers of video game magazines to digital downloads from online storefronts, demos have been present in video games for decades. The rise of digital marketplaces have resulted in Betas and Early Access becoming viable options for video game developers. Tune in to hear Brendan and Zach discuss their respective experiences regarding these formats and their overall thoughts on the role they play in the gaming landscape.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
As gamers, we frequently feel the nostalgic desire to play old games. These range from games we enjoyed in our childhoods, those that we never had the chance to play and games that are older than we are.
Special guest Bryce Dewit joins Brendan and Zach to discuss the role of emulation in gaming, emulating games versus playing them on their original hardware, his struggles with learning Python to emulate the Phillips CDi and his recent tinkering with his Wii U, turning it into a pimped out emulation machine.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Bryce - @ivRevin (@TheHouseofMario)
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Can you truly separate art from the artist? In light of a number of instances of boycotts stemming from situations ranging from poor working conditions at gaming companies to individual developers holding controversial political opinions, Brendan and Zach attempt to break down and assess the different aspects of this age-old question.
Most importantly, do not boycott this podcast! Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Turns out that 13 is truly a cursed number! Tune in and listen to the long-awaited episode 13, as Zach and Brendan kick of season 2 of Blowing Cartridges in style! The dynamic duo reminisce about 2020, the games they played and how a global pandemic affected the wider gaming landscape.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Special guest and friend of the show John Dewis joins Zach & Brendan to discuss the important role video game music plays in game design. Each of the three brought three music tracks of their choice to discuss at length, dissecting the different forms that VGM can take and the qualities inherent to the medium.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
John - @AuraPaladin
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Music Played:
Spill the Coffee - Necrobarista - Kevin Penkin & Jeremy Lim https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rztHfUussso
Pursuit Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney - Masakazu Sugimori https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFcJmOs8DRQ
The Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time: - Koji Kondo - https://youtu.be/InkKkTcw9_A
FogBeast Battle - Xenoblade Chronicles: Future Connected (1) FogBeast Battle -Xenoblade Chronicles: Future Connected OST [06] - YouTube - Ace+
Taser - Age of Empires II (1) Age of Empires II Soundtrack - Track #10 - Tazer - YouTube Stephen Rippy
Dam - Goldeneye 007 (1) Goldeneye 007 (Music) - Dam - YouTube - Grant Kirkshop, Graeme Norgate, Robin Beanland
To The Final Battle - 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim - Hitoshi Sakimoto
Sailing with the Coffee Pirates - Wandersong - A Shell in the Pit
The Elemental Stars - Golden Sun - Motoi Sakuraba
Brendan and Zach often discuss their (relatively) vast video game collections. However, is there something more to these collections than just blind hoarder-instinct? Tune in to listen to the duo discuss the growing phenomenon of video game preservation, the role of emulation vs original hardware and the uniqueness of video games as a medium in the context of preserving/displaying them in a museum setting.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
You may have noticed that Sony and Microsoft have recently heralded in the new generation with the PS5 and Xbox Series X respectively. But does it really feel like a new generation of video games is about to commence? Tune in to listen to Brendan, Zach, and special guest Dave as they discuss their mutual apathy for the recent launches, their fond memories of previous launches and what has made console launches of the past either memorable or forgettable.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Dave - @hop1170
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Joining the duo this episode is Mesut Latifoglu from Twice Different, developers of the newly released roguelike Ring of Pain to discuss this gem of a game that is now available on the Switch and PC. Tune in to hear why Ring of Pain is worth playing, riveting discussions regarding being an indie dev in Australia, and the ground breaking innovations in Twitch extension made by Twice Different for this game.
Enjoyed the show? Please leave us a review on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your podcast service of choice.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Mesut - @_Fluto (@TwiceDifferent) (@RingOfPain)
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Video game enthusiasts partake in a hobby where historically a large proportion of the creative output originates outside of the western cultural world. In this episode Brendan and Zach reminisce about their experiences missing out on games due to a lack of localisation, the prevalence of Japanese media in the 90s/early 2000s and the current state of the video game localisation landscape.
Enjoyed the show? Please leave us a review on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your podcast service of choice.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Have video games become increasingly 'casualisied' in the wake of the advent of mobile games, the Wii generation and micro transactions? Or have console games simply become more complex with an increasing number of barriers to entry being raised? Join Brendan and Zach as they discuss the differences between casualisation and accessibility and why the picture may not be as bleak as some 'hardcore gamers' would suggest.
Enjoyed the show? Please leave us a review on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your podcast service of choice.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
In an attempt to justify their large game collections, Brendan and Zach are joined by friend of the show Luke to discuss the dynamics surrounding the value of game prices, their thoughts on the RRP price rise for next gen and the volatile retro games market that determines many of the issues concerning retro game collecting.
Enjoyed the show? Please leave us a review on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your podcast service of choice.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Luke - @adeeelnv (https://www.youtube.com/user/Lvaneede)
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
On this episode Zach and Brendan are joined by special guest Matt, who details his experience of being a passionate gaming enthusiast as well as a husband and father. The trio discuss favourite video game dads, how parenthood changes the games you play and their memories of playing video games with their dads.
Enjoyed the show? Please leave us a review on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your podcast service of choice.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
This episode, special guest and friend of the show Drew Agnew joins Brendan and Zach to talk about video game fanboys. Why do people get so passionate about video games? Do the console wars of childhoods past continue to rage on? Are there benefits to enthusiastic, all-consuming fandoms?
Enjoyed the show? Please leave us a review on Apple Podcast, Spotfiy or your podcast service of choice.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Drew - @iDrewby @TheHouseOfMario
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedi
This episode, Brendan and Zach dive into the world of game critics, 'reviewing' the reviews process. Why do we care what a reviewer thinks of a game? Why does Brendan want to destroy the established scoring systems popularly used by review outlets? Tune in to episode 3 to find answers to these questions and more!
Enjoyed the show? Please leave us a review on Apple Podcast, Spotfiy or your podcast service of choice.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedi
This week join Brendan and Zach as they discuss their history gaming and why, well into their 20s they are still gaming today.
Enjoyed the show? Please leave us a review on Apple Podcast, Spotfiy or your podcast service of choice.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
This week join Brendan and Zach as they discuss their respective histories as enthusiast games journalists, their perceptions of gaming conventions and Zach's 2016 journey to the holy grail of gaming: E3.
Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at blowingcartridge@gmail.com
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Join Brendan and Zach as they detail their plans for Blowing Cartridges, a new gaming podcast where they dive into and discuss the issues surrounding gaming culture and the games themselves.
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia