RPGFan's Random Encounter: Recent Episodes
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Join the staff of RPGFan as they discuss the latest news and topics in the world of role-playing games.
On this week's Random Encounter, we're diving into the realms of fantasy and musical adventure!
First, Abe takes on the epic challenge of reviewing Baldur's Gate III, the long-awaited CRPG sequel that brings Dungeons & Dragons to life! With intricate storytelling, deep character customization, and intense tactical combat, does it roll a nat 20? Then, Audra explores the harmonious world of Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical. Combining the thrill of RPGs with the beauty of musical theatre, Stray Gods offers a unique experience filled with memorable characters and catchy tunes. Does it hit the right notes for Audra?
Featuring: Jono Logan, Abraham Kobylanski, and Audra Bowling; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Baldur's Gate IIIBaldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition ReviewBaldur's Gate 2: Enhanced Edition ReviewStray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical Review
On this week's Random Encounter, we're stepping into the wrestling ring and exploring an anti-RPG!
First, Neal gets into his tights and fights for the title with WrestleQuest, a pixel RPG that echoes the golden era of professional wrestling. Filled with iconic wrestles and thrilling moves, does it pin Neal's attention? Then, Ben explores the mysterious world of 24 Killers, an anti-RPG in the style of Moon. Filled with quirky characters, unexpected twists, and absurd plot twists, does it live up to the classic PSX-era of anti-RPGs?
Featuring: Jono Logan, Neal Chandran, and Ben Love; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:WrestleQuest Showcases Gameplay in Developer Walkthrough24 Killers ReviewMoon Review
On this week's Random Encounter, we're looking at a lost Nintendo game, and what might become one of the greatest RPG soundtracks of all time.
If you are from the West, you may not have heard of Marvelous: Another Treasure Island. This late-era SNES/Super Famicom title was never localized, but it had a massive impact on gaming history, especially for The Legend of Zelda franchise. Josh chats with us about if the game holds up today, or if it is a link best left in the past. And then Patrick is here for a mini-Rhythm Encounter to talk about a potential "Music of the Year" contender, the Octopath Traveler II soundtrack! Let's break and boost!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Patrick Gann, and Joshua Lindquist; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Marvelous: Another Treasure Island ReviewOctopath Traveler II Original Soundtrack ReviewOctopath Traveler II Review
On this week's Random Encounter, we're finally breaking free of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Not-E3, and Final Fantasy XVI! Time to talk about some (other) games!
First up, Audra delights in the RPG crossover to end all RPG crossovers, The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie. Probably not the game you want to try to get into the Trails series, but if you're a fan, it's a must-play. And then Peter takes a deep dive into the world of anime detectives and sexy ghosts in the new title from the creator of Danganronpa, Master Detective Archives: Rain Code.
Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, and Peter Triezenberg; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie ReviewSo you want to get into The Trails Series…Master Detective Archives: Rain Code Review
On this week's Random Encounter, we're talking about Final Fantasy XVI!
It's been six years since the last numbered Final Fantasy game, but the wait is finally over, and Final Fantasy XVI has finally arrived! There's so much to talk about that we're dedicating an entire episode to it, hosted by our FFXVI reviewer, Zach! Whether you've just started the demo or have already beaten the game, there is something in this Random Encounter for everyone who is excited about this brand-new fantasy epic!
Featuring: Zach Wilkerson, Ben Love, Caitlin Argyros, David Silbert, & Des Miller; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Final Fantasy XVI Review
On this week's Random Encounter, it's all about Not-E3!
If you're a video game fan, Not-E3 week is like Christmas, Easter, and Halloween all rolled into one! Though a few shows are still coming up next week, the big ones are all finished, and our panel is here to discuss the massive amount of RPG and adventure game news and trailers that dropped! It's one of the biggest episodes of the year, and we've assembled a fantastic panel, so let's talk about some games!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Alvin Lim, Hilary Andreff, Mike Salbato, & Stephanie Sybydlo; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Coming Early 2024 on Two DiscsKiryu Returns As Joryu in Like a Dragon Gaiden, Launching November 9thAction RPG Sand Land Highlights Akira Toriyama’s Signature Style in Debut TrailerBaldur’s Gate III Reveals Actor Jason Isaacs To Voice Antagonist Enver GortashFreedom Games Announces Dark Deity 2Control Pinnochio’s Strings in Lies of P DemoNew Trailer Emerges for Path of Exile 2New Demonschool Trailer Showcases Dark Atmosphere and Stylish BattlesCreate Your Own Zelda-like Dungeons in Quest Master on PC, SwitchSacriFire Heats Up With New TrailerSEGA and RGG Studio Reveal Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth with Tasteful NudityFinal Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis Summer Game Fest Hands-On ImpressionsFinal Fantasy XVI Demo Out Tomorrow, June 12thProject Re Fantasy Resurfaces as Metaphor: ReFantazio; Persona 3 Reload, 5 Tactica Confirmed
On this episode of Random Encounter, Jono and Michael Sollosi team up to speak with the gang behind Zeboyd Games about their latest title: This Way Madness Lies!
Robert Boyd and William Stiernberg at Zeboyd Games have been turning out innovative indie RPGs since Breath of Death VII: The Beginning in 2010. And in their latest release, This Way Madness Lies, they improbably mash up the popular Japanese anime genre of Magical Girls with the works of the English Bard himself, William Shakespeare! Somehow, Robert and Bill managed to take some time out of their hectic release-week schedule to sit down and talk with us about the origins of the game, its development, and where Zeboyd might be going from here!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Michael Sollosi, Robert Boyd, William Stiernberg; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Zeboyd 2022 Reddit AMAThis Way Madness Lies Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're talking about asexual representation in video games.
A few weeks ago, RPGFan published a feature by our own Caitlin Argyros, focusing on asexual characters in RPGs. Spoiler alert: it's a pretty short list. Though queer representation has been on the rise over the last decade, the aspec community still struggles to be seen and heard in all forms of media, including gaming. This week, Jono and Caitlin discuss various types of representation in video games, the nature of roleplaying as someone who doesn't experience sexual or romantic attraction, and what the future might hold for characters on the asexual and aromantic spectrums.
Featuring: Jono Logan, Caitlin Argyros; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Why Representation Matters: A Look at Asexual Characters in RPGsThe Asexual Visibility and Education Network | asexuality.orgCody Daigle-Orians (@acedadadvice) / TwitterThe Ace Couple (@The_Ace_Couple) / Twitter
On this episode of Random Encounter, Jono and GC are taking a comprehensive look at Yakuza/Like a Dragon!
Every now and then, RPGFan publishes a game primer to help newcomers get into a new series. We've covered Trails, Tales, and Xenos, and now it's time to cover Yakuza! With its recent rebranding into "Like a Dragon," the long-running Yakuza series looks to be taking another big step into its future. If you've ever wanted to sample all the delights the district of Kamurocho has to offer, then this podcast has you covered. We ask all the big questions! Where do you start? Where do you end? And most importantly: do you want to learn how to play Mahjong?
Featuring: Jono Logan, GC Vazquez; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:So you want to get into The Yakuza SeriesGC Vasquez YouTube ChannelYakuza Remastered Collection for PlayStation 4 Review - YouTube VideoRGG Studio Announces Like a Dragon 8, Releasing in Early 2024
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's Random Book Club again!
Here at RPGFan, we love our JRPGs: Tales, Trials, and everything in between. But to understand where the genre came from, we need to look back almost forty years to two legendary Japanese creators: Yuji Horii (Dragon Quest) and Hironobu Sakaguchi (Final Fantasy).
In the recent JRPG history book, Fight, Magic, Items: The History of Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, and the Rise of Japanese RPGs in the West, author Aidan Moher explores not just the origins of the genre but also how it evolved through the 20th and 21st centuries. This week, Jono and Hilary get the opportunity to interview Aidan about his new book, his own history with JRPGs, and where he thinks the video game book publishing industry will be going in the future!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Hilary Andreff; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:
- Fight, Magic, Items Official Website
- Random Encounter 247 – Random Book Club – The Art of Point-and-Click Adventure Games
- Final Fantasy
- Dragon Quest
- Final Fantasy VII Review (from 1998!)
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're tackling one of the biggest news weeks in recent memory!
First up, we're discussing the recent Nintendo Direct, speculating about the big Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom announcement, and wondering how these 2023 release dates can possibly be coming up so fast. Then, we're embracing our inner fanboys to discuss the massive amount of Yakuza... I'm sorry, the massive amount of LIKE A DRAGON news that dropped last Wednesday! There are a ton of stories to get through, so let's get started!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Nick Mangiaracina, Mike Sollosi; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Releases on Nintendo Switch May 12th, 2023Like a Dragon: Ishin! Launches February 21st, 2023RGG Studio Announces Like a Dragon 8, Releasing in Early 2024Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name Announced for 2023 ReleaseSuikoden I & II HD Remaster Coming 2023 to PS4, Xbox, Switch and PCSuikoden Retro Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, Jono is, once again, tempted to play Final Fantasy XIV!
With the release of the 6.2 patch of FFXIV, Mike is taking up the torch to try and convince Jono to create an account. Will he be successful? And Audra is here to chat about Dusk Diver 2, an anime-inspired action RPG with more than a few elements of Yakuza/Persona! Plus, Gamescom was last week, so everyone is excited to speculate about all the news from the show!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, Mike Salbato; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Dreams From Our Wildest Hearts: Penny Blood and Armed Fantasia Dual Developer InterviewFinal Fantasy XIV Patch 6.2 Gets New Trailer, August 23rd Release DateDusk Diver 2 Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're going virtual!
First, Caitlin examines the origins of a virtual band in the music biopic game, We Are OFK. Then, Brian steps into a virtual fantasy world in one of the only full-scale JRPGs available on VR platforms, RuinsMagus. And finally, Jono is back in Nova Scotia and is trying to teach his Mom how to play video games. It's... not going great, but there is always hope!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Caitlin Argyros, Brian Mackenzie; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:We Are OFK Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're going handheld with two highly anticipated RPGs for the Nintendo Switch...
First, Izzy digs into the HD-2D remake of the classic Super Famicom/Super Nintendo RPG, LIVE A LIVE. Now, not only do Western audiences FINALLY learn how the title is pronounced, but we have the opportunity to enjoy this seven-character epic with stunning graphics and remastered music! Then, both Zach and Izzy wax rhapsodic to Jono about the incredible new entry of the Xeno series, Xenoblade Chronicles 3!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Izzy Parsons, Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:LIVE A LIVE ReviewSo you want to get into the Xeno Series…Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition ReviewXenoblade Chronicles 2 ReviewXenoblade Chronicles 2: Torna – The Golden Country Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's Random Book Club time!
Do you know what we love almost as much as video games? Books ABOUT video games! Bitmap Books just released their third edition of The Art of Point-and-Click Adventure Games, and Hilary got an exclusive first look at this incredible volume. You know what that means, right? It means that Jono and Hilary get to geek out about adventure games for an hour! No, YOU fight like a cow!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Hilary Andreff; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:RPGFan Chapters Exclusive Review: The Art of Point-and-Click Adventure Games, Third EditionYouTube: Jonathan Coulton - All This Time (Official Video)Old Skies Steam Next Fest 2022 Demo ImpressionsKathy Rain: Director’s Cut ReviewWhispers of a Machine ReviewYouTube: Double Fine Adventure
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're talking about the joy of hunting monsters!
First, the panel chats about the RPGs and adventure games that caught their attention in the highly-anticipated June Nintendo Direct. Then, Jono gives Dom and Des a chance to geek out at length about the new expansion to Monster Hunter Rise, Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Des Miller, Dom Kim; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Monster Hunter Rise Review (Des)Monster Hunter Rise Review (Dom)
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're talking about sequels and demos!
Zach chats about his time with AI: The Somnium Files – nirvanA Initiative, the new sequel to the beloved "mystery box" game. Mike shares some of his favorite RPG and adventure game demos from the 2022 Steam Next Fest. And the entire panel breaks down the big news stories of the week, including the Final Fantasy VII Rebirth announcement and the Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Direct!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Mike Salbato, Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:AI: The Somnium Files – nirvanA Initiative ReviewXenoblade Chronicles 3 Direct Delivers New Trailer, Gameplay and Expansion Pass DetailsCrisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion Coming to All Major Platforms This WinterFinal Fantasy VII Rebirth Comes to PS5 Next Winter as Part 2 of a Trilogy
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's Not-E3 time!
Even though the illustrious gaming show is skipping a year, that doesn't mean there isn't a ridiculous amount of gaming news to sift through. Our panel talks about their favorite games of each day of the "show," and discusses what the future might hold for E3 and other gaming events in 2023 and beyond!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Brian Mackenzie, Mario Garcia, Wes Iliff; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Final Fantasy XVIBear and BreakfastMarvel’s Midnight SunsOne Piece OdysseyHonkai: Star RailGotham Knights9 Years of ShadowsThe UnlivingSymphony of War: The Nephilim SagaSacriFirePaper Animal RPGWrestleQuestSunday GoldPersona 4 GoldenPersona 5 RoyalStarfieldPentiment
On this episode of Random Encounter, the panel breaks down everything they’ve played over the last few weeks!
Caitlin survives her first experience with the children of the night in Vampire: The Masquerade – Swansong. Audra enjoys a bit of video game nostalgia with Arcade Spirits: The New Challengers, a visual novel that celebrates the world of arcades. And Jono digs into his comfort food of Fallout 4 by adding in mods that dramatically change the way the game is played!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, Caitlin Argyros; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Vampire: The Masquerade – Swansong ReviewArcade Spirits ReviewArcade Spirits: The New Challengers ReviewFallout 4 Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're talking about some of the best games we've played so far in May!
As one of the biggest fans of the Suikoden series at RPGFan, Zach relished the opportunity to dig into Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising, but did it live up to his high expectations? Sollosi revisits the past with Prinny Presents NIS Classics Vol. 2, giving him another opportunity to enjoy two tactical RPGs from his college years. And now that it's out of early access, Jono can't stop playing Rogue Legacy 2! All in all, a pretty solid mid-May for RPG gaming!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Michael Sollosi, Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising ReviewMakai Kingdom: Chronicles of the Sacred Tome ReviewZ.H.P.: Unlosing Ranger vs Darkdeath Evilman ReviewRogue Legacy 2 (Early Access) ReviewSo you want to get into The Suikoden Series…
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's time for some indie goodness down on the farm!
Tarah makes her first appearance on the podcast, talking about the retro farm-sim Bit Orchard: Animal Valley for the Switch. This indie homage to Harvest Moon and Game Boy apparently makes for a very relaxing time (provided that you don't need to catch any frogs)! Next, Audra returns to Random to chat about the fun, if slightly underwhelming, dungeon crawler Anuchard. And then, Jono has been plowing through RPG DLC at a rapid pace, sharing his thoughts about CrossCode: A New Home and Lost Judgment: The Kaito Files.
Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, Izzy Parsons, Tyler Trosper; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Anuchard ReviewLost Judgment: The Kaito Files ReviewCrossCode: A New Home DLC Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're taking a page from Retro Encounter and talking about some of our favorite games of the past!
Tyler is here to talk about his recent feature "So You Want to Get Into the Xeno Series," a deep dive into the series that started with Xenogears on the PSX and is heading toward Xenoblade Chronicles III on the Switch this September. Izzy and Jono get into a deep discussion about Chrono Cross and Chrono Trigger's freshly-localized visual novel sequel, Radical Dreamers. And in honor of its 30th anniversary, Audra has finally played The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past for the first time (spoiler alert, she loved it)!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, Izzy Parsons, Tyler Trosper; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:So you want to get into the Xeno series…Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition ReviewRadical Dreamers – Le Trésor Interdit ReviewThe Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past ReviewEarthbound Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, it’s tabletop RPGs, farms, and Zelda-likes. Oh my!
Neal returns to Random to talk about the recent Borderlands spinoff, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, Brian shares his thoughts about how Rune Factory 5 has advanced the series, and Greg returns to chat about Arietta of Spirits! Plus, Jono and the entire panel chats about the recent E3 cancelation and if the former giant of gaming conferences will be missed!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Neal Chandran, Greg Delmage, Brian Mackenzie; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands First ImpressionsRune Factory 5 ReviewFire Emblem Gaiden Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's pure chaos as the panel walks Jono through their thoughts on some of the latest RPGs!
Making their first appearance on the show, Izzy is here to break down the "story of an angry man" that is Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin. Then Niki shares her thoughts about Square Enix's latest 2D-HD entry, Triangle Strategy. And Des (another first-timer!) climbs in a futuristic mech to chat about the upcoming space strategy RPG, Relayer!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Niki Fakhoori, Des Miller, Izzy Parsons; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin Review
Project Triangle Strategy’s Invisible Feature and the Trials of Gaming while Colorblind
On this episode of Random Encounter, the panel looks back to the golden age of RPGs with the Pixel Remasters of Final Fantasy IV, V, and VI!
We tackled the first three entries in the Pixel Remaster series (I, II, and III) back in Episode 221, but it's time to move to a new generation of console, the Super Nintendo! Cory dives into the first SNES entry, Final Fantasy IV, to see if it still holds up (it absolutely does). Alana gushes about her love of the Final Fantasy V job system and its general sense of adventure. And Audra has played Final Fantasy VI for the very first time, and (spoiler alert), she adored it!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, Alana Hagues, Cory Tischbein; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster Review
Final Fantasy II Pixel Remaster Review
Final Fantasy III Pixel Remaster Review
Final Fantasy IV Pixel Remaster Review
Final Fantasy V Pixel Remaster Review
Final Fantasy VI Pixel Remaster Review
Random Encounter 221 - First Fantasies
Retro Encounter 316 – Final Fantasy V Part I
Retro Encounter 317 – Final Fantasy V Part II
On this emergency episode of Random Encounter, we're talking about a game that has every RPG fan buzzing: Elden Ring!
The latest Souls-like masterpiece from the wizards at FromSoftware, Elden Ring looks to be the current front-runner for Game of the Year (and maybe Game of the Decade if these crazy-high review scores are to be believed). This week, Jono is talking with Bob Richardson about what makes Elden Ring's open world special, the innovations it brings to the Souls-like genre, and how the title didn't just meet, but completely blew away our expectations!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Bob Richardson; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Elden Ring Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're talking about two games that take place in very different types of open worlds!
First up, Caitlin walks us through the expansive open world of Horizon Forbidden West, the sequel to Horizon Zero Dawn. Improving on the original in almost every way, Forbidden West allows you to adventure in a world full of post-apocalyptic beauty (with better climbing mechanics, thank heavens)! We then take a deep dive (literally) with Dom into the world of fishing in Moonglow Bay. Taking place on the east coast of Canada, Moonglow Bay offers a small open world of a poor fishing village that you can upgrade through hard work (and lobster traps) into a thriving community!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Caitlin Argyros, Dom Kim; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Horizon Zero Dawn ReviewHorizon Zero Dawn: The Frozen Wilds ReviewHorizon Forbidden West ReviewMoonglow Bay Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's time to pull out our pencil-and-paper Pokédex because we're going back to when Pokémon ruled the Earth!
Pokémon Legends: Arceus is the latest entry in the long-running Pocket Monsters series, and just about everyone is talking about how it could revitalize future titles. Our panel discusses what they think about the new semi-open world, beautiful 19th-century presentation, and apparently blood-thirsty Pokémon. We are also talking with Abe about Drinkbox Studios' newest Action RPG, Nobody Saves the World. With a Saturday-Morning-Cartoon graphic style and innovative combat, the title seems to continue Drinkbox's high standards of quality games (Have you played Guacamelee? It's pretty awesome!).
Featuring: Jono Logan, Abraham Kobylanski, Joshua Lindquist, Niki Fakhoori; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Pokémon Legends: ArceusNobody Saves the World Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's time to look at some of the best games of the previous year!
RPGFan has released our annual Games of the Year feature, and this week, we're taking a deep dive. Join Jono, Alana, Brian, and Wes as they dig into the various categories, pick out their personal favorites, and (inevitably) end up adding multiple games to their backlogs for 2022!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Alana Hagues, Brian Mackenzie, Wes Iliff; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:RPGFan Games of the Year 2021: Overall AwardsRPGFan Games of the Year 2021: Editors’ AwardsBravely Default II ReviewDisgaea 6: Defiance of Destiny ReviewDoki Doki Literature Club Plus! ReviewEastward ReviewFantasian (Part One) ReviewFantasian (Part Two) ReviewFinal Fantasy VII Remake ReviewFinal Fantasy VII Remake Episode INTERmission ReviewFinal Fantasy XIV: Endwalker – 25. Review Journal Book XXV: Footfalls ReviewGenshin Impact ReviewImpostor Factory ReviewLoop Hero ReviewMarvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy ReviewMass Effect: Legendary Edition ReviewMonster Hunter Rise ReviewNew Pokémon Snap ReviewNieR Re[in]carnation ReviewNieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139... ReviewScarlet Nexus ReviewShin Megami Tensei V ReviewSuper Robot Wars 30 ReviewSuper Smash Bros. UltimateTales of Arise ReviewThe Great Ace Attorney Chronicles Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're doing a little bit of cleanup! Some super interesting games were released at the very end of 2021, and we have some folks who played them!
Audra is here to talk about her experience playing both Another Eden: The Cat Beyond Time and Space and its Chrono Cross-related DLC, Complex Dream. Dom is excited to chat about the recent PC port of Monster Hunter Rise. And Neal gets to delve into an incredibly long-running Japanese-only series with Super Robot Wars 30! Plus, Jono rants a little bit about finally playing Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age. (Spoiler: He doesn't love it! Shock and gasp!)
Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, Dom Kim, Neal Chandran; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Another Eden: The Cat Beyond Time and Space ReviewAnother Eden: The Cat Beyond Time and Space – Complex Dream ReviewMonster Hunter Rise (PC) ReviewSuper Robot Wars 30 ReviewDragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age – Definitive Edition Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're taking a look in our crystal ball to preview the games of 2022!
Every December, RPGFan publishes an extensive feature focusing on the games we're most excited for in the upcoming year. And this week, we get to talk about it! Does the panel think that Final Fantasy XVI will be released in 2022 or be delayed for another year? How about Starfield? Will BOTW 2 finally get a release date and an official title? We may not have definitive answers to these questions, but we have lots of speculation!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Mike Salbato, Mike Sollosi, Steven Mattern; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Square Enix Responds to Continued Final Fantasy XIV CongestionSea of Stars Confirmed for Nintendo Switch Release With New TrailerRPGFan’s 30 Most Anticipated Games of 2022Forspoken PreviewRetro Encounter 302 – The Great Ace Attorney SpoilercastSo you want to get into the Tales Series…
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's awards night! The Game Awards 2021 were last Thursday, and so was our recording date! The resulting episode? Pure chaos!
Jono, Brian, and Niki try to talk about Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl and Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc Anniversary Edition, but Mr. Geoff Keighley keeps throwing brand-new game trailers at them. Can they figure out the titles of the massive games being announced while also keeping the show on track? Well, there's a first time for everything...
Featuring: Jono Logan, Brian Mackenzie, Niki Fakhoori; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl ReviewDanganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc Anniversary Edition Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, Greg is back!
Greg and Jono reunite for Thanksgiving (despite both of them being Canadian) to talk about the fun of Final Fantasy-themed battle royales (Final Fantasy VII: The First Soldier), the joys of retro-style adventure game throwbacks (Obduction), the excitement of unsubstantiated rumors (Chrono Cross remake), and the delights of visual novels! Plus, there is some big, big news about the future of Random Encounter moving forward! Happy Thanksgivings!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Greg Delmage; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Rhythm Encounter 72 – Game Music ConcertsChrono CrossFinal Fantasy VII The First SoldierRPGFan’s Essential Visual Novels
On this episode of Random Encounter, our panel descends deep into Dracula's Castle to deliver their thoughts about the recent Castlevania Advance Collection.
Between 2001 and 2003, Konami released three Castlevania titles for the Game Boy Advance (Circle of the Moon, Harmony of Dissonance, and Aria of Sorrow). These games revived the Symphony of the Night-style of 2D-exploration gameplay and cemented the term "Metroidvania" in our minds forever. In this episode, Jono and Mike get a chance to dive back into some fond GBA memories while Audra and Niki get to experience the Castlevania universe for the first time! Plus, we finally get a definitive answer to the question, is the double jump the best upgrade in video game history?
Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, Niki Fakhoori, Mike Sollosi; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Castlevania Advance Collection ReviewCupid Parasite ReviewDeath’s Gambit: Afterlife ReviewCastlevania: Circle of the Moon ReviewCastlevania: Harmony of Dissonance ReviewCastlevania: Aria of Sorrow ReviewRetro Encounter 191 – Castlevania: Symphony of the Night RevisitedRetro Encounter 302 – The Great Ace Attorney SpoilercastRetro Encounter 234 – Castlevania The Animated Series
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're dipping our toes into some games highly inspired by the 80s and 90s!
Abe is here to talk about the surprisingly excellent Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy, waxing rhapsodic about its superb story and incredible 80s soundtrack! Then, Niki dives into the earliest era of the SNES with the surprise remake of the cult-favorite hybrid side-scroller/city-builder title, Actraiser Renaissance. And finally, Jono dips into the spirit of the 90s with Kathy Rain: Director's Cut, a remake/remaster of the 2016 indie point-and-click adventure game.
Featuring: Jono Logan, Niki Fakhoori, Abraham Kobylanski; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy ReviewActraiser Renaissance ReviewKathy Rain: Director’s Cut Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're talkin' Tales!
RPGFan's recent feature "So You Want to Get Into the Tales Series..." took a deep dive into dozens of Tales games to help you find your best entry point. This week, we have the author of that feature, Wes Iliff, and Tales superfan, Steph Sybydlo, to talk about their experiences with the games and where YOU should start if you want to get into the beloved long-running series!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Wes Iliff, Stephanie Sybydlo; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:So You Want to Get Into the Tales Series...Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition ReviewTales of Berseria ReviewTales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World ReviewTales of Arise ReviewWashington Post: The video game review process is broken. It’s bad for readers, writers and games.
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's the latest Yakuza Encounter! Jono is super excited to dive into the newest spinoff Yakuza game, Lost Judgment, with Caitlin, and learn more about otome games (including Olympia Soirée) with Niki!
Plus, the panel takes a look at some of the most exciting RPG Nintendo Direct news from last week, as well as come up with a definitive answer to the age-old question, "Which is the best video game animal?" Their answers may surprise you! (Hint: It's cats. It's always cats.)
Featuring: Jono Logan, Caitlin Argyros, Niki Fakhoori; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Lost Judgment ReviewOlympia Soirée ReviewDefining Joseimuke, and Attempting to Define OtomeYakuza Is For Men | GC Vazquez YouTube Video
On this episode of Random Encounter, Abe takes two trips to Eastern Europe for the reviews of Black Book and Chernobylite, Pete takes a trip back in time to experience the glories (???) of the 3DO, and Jono ends his trip and is finally back home in Toronto!
Plus, let's take a look at some of the big announcements from the recent PlayStation presentation! Will the KotOR Remake still be an RPG? Will Tiny Tina's Wonderlands be a turn-based RPG? Could Deathloop actually be an RPG? (No, sadly, but we're going to be playing it anyway!)
Featuring: Jono Logan, Abraham Kobylanski, Pete Leavitt ; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Black Book ReviewChernobylite ReviewWorld FlipperKnights of the Old Republic RemakeTiny Tina's Wonderland
On this episode of Random Encounter, Jono tells us that he and the gang are taking a trip down to the lake to gossip about their new boyfriends/weapons. And by that, we assume he means that they're talking about the new mail-delivery simulator, Lake, and the dating sim/dungeon crawler, Boyfriend Dungeon!
Plus, Caitlin is here to talk about a game that ISN'T Final Fantasy XIV (Fantasian Part II), Audra is exploring outer space in OPUS: Echo of Starsong, and Jono is eagerly awaiting Greg's triumphant return to Random Encounter!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, Caitlin Argyros ; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:
Boyfriend Dungeon Review
OPUS: Echo of Starsong Review
Lake Review
Fantasian (Part One) Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, our panel discusses if The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword can be redeemed on the Switch, if NieR Re[in]carnation can convince Alana to like gacha games, and how the new audio-based RPG, The Vale: Shadow of the Crown, completely blew our minds! Plus, we have some big news about the future of Random Encounter... (Don't worry, we're just changing our time slot)!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Alana Hagues, Audra Bowling, Quinton O'Connor; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD Review
NieR Re[in]carnation Review
Ambition: A Minuet in Power Review
The Vale: Shadow of the Crown Review
Dreamscaper Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we discuss the release of the Pixel Remaster NES-era Final Fantasy games! Brian is delving into the origins of the series with the first Final Fantasy, Audra is braving the controversial SaGa-esque Final Fantasy II, and Zach is blowing through airships like a madman in the final NES entry, Final Fantasy III. How do they hold up today? And with Greg on vacation, can anyone stop Jono from changing the show to Yakuza Encounter?!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Brian Mackenzie, Audra Bowling, Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster Review
Final Fantasy II Pixel Remaster Review
Final Fantasy III Pixel Remaster Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're discussing some of July's hottest releases! Zach is looking into the past and future in Cris Tales, Cory is hunting some Monsties in Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin, Greg is channeling his inner cat-farmer in Kitaria Fables, and Jono is screaming Objection at any random person who walks by in The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Zach Wilkerson, Cory Tischbein; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:
Cris Tales Review
Cris Tales Video Review
Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin Review
Kitaria Fables Preview
The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles Review
Dai Gyakuten Saiban: Naruhodō Ryūnosuke no Bōken Review
Overboard!
On this episode of Random Encounter, we bring in a pinch hitter! While your usual hosts take a break, we have some interviews from LudoNarraCon 2021 that went down back in April. Eva Padilla was in attendance and snagged some interviews. So, enjoy the chats with Eve Golden-Woods and Fernando Melo!
Featuring: Eva Padilla, with Special Guests: Eve Golden-Woods, Fernando Melo; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:
LudoNarraCon
DOUBLE BLIT GAMES
If Found... Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we pore over the gorgeous book recently released from Bitmap Books, A Guide to Japanese Role-Playing Games with Hilary and Steph. Greg has returned to Legend of Mana much to his delight and shares his thoughts on the updates Square Enix brings to the remaster. An awesome listener question and plenty of asides polish another episode for your listening pleasure!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Hilary Andreff, Steph Sybydlo; Edited by Jono Logan and Greg Delmage
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This Episode's Related Links:Legend of Mana
QueeR Replicant: Confronting Sexuality and Identity through Kainé and Emil in NieR Replicant
So you want to get into The Trails Series… [Revised]
Pride & Progress: Celebrating LGBTQIA+ Representation in RPGs
Scarlet Nexus
Death end re;Quest
Famicom Detective Club: The Missing Heir
RWBY: Grimm Eclipse – Definitive Edition
Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers – 24. Review Journal Book XXIV: In the Arms of War
Death Trash Preview
RPGFan Chapters Review: A Guide to Japanese Role-Playing Games
On this episode of Random Encounter, we sum all the various game shows that took place over the course of, well, "E3 Season." So many reveals, more details, and plenty of surprises! Ups, downs, and everything else in the show, so tune in!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Steph Sybydlo, Quinton O'Connor, Mike Salbato; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Crowdfunding Chronicles: Wanderlost
RPGFan Chapters Preview: Selected Excerpts From A Guide to Japanese Role-Playing Games
RPGFan Chapters: Further Excerpts from A Guide to Japanese Role-Playing Games
RPGFan Chapters Review: Boss Fight Books ‘Final Fantasy VI’
Cris Tales Interview with Lead Producer Derek Neal
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV
Disco Elysium: The Final Cut
Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- The Prophecy of the Throne
Foregone
Backbone
Dark Deity
Solasta: Crown of the Magister
Final Fantasy VII Remake Episode INTERmission
NEO: The World Ends With You Preview
Final Fantasy VII The First Soldier Preview
Dreamscaper E3 Preview
Tales of Arise Preview
Coromon is Pocket Monsters Meets 2D Zelda, and I Mean That Fondly
On this episode of Random Encounter, Greg and Jono pull together an emergency panel cause it's E3! We have no idea how the show's going to shape up this year, but we're gonna' speculate over what we will see, could see, and want to see (and secretly know we won't see...) Tune in and listen to our shenanigans!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Steph Sybydlo, Josh Louis; Edited by Jono Logan
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On this episode of Random Encounter, we gathered the crew to talk about takin' sweet pics of our favourite Pokemon! That's right, New Pokemon Snap is all kinds of delightful and RPG-adjacent, which means Niki got to review it and talk about. Also, because Pokemon, we welcome a semi-regular special guest to share her enthusiasm for the game! And just as quickly as one guest leaves, another spontaneously appears because you can't have a chat about Final Fantasy XIV and the recent Fan Festival without getting Caitlin involved. Alana and Caitlin regale us with tales of what to expect from the Endwalker expansion and our life with bunnies of all types! So, hop in and listen!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Alana Hagues, Niki Fakhoori, with Special Guests Caitlin Argyros and Gwen; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Prescription for Sleep: Stardew Valley Interview with the Musicians and Producers
Get ’em While They Last! PlayStation Store RPGs for PS One, PS2, PS3, PSP, and PS Vita
Hylian Highlights: Celebrating The Legend of Zelda ~ An RPGFan Feature
Genshin Impact: Zhongli’s Lament and The Troubling Militarism of the God of Contracts
Mega Man Battle Network and Technophobia in the Digital Age
RPGFan Chapters Preview: A Guide to Japanese Role-Playing Games
TV Review: Castlevania’s Final Season is Slow to Start, but Erupts into a Whip-Cracker of a Finale
Shin Megami Tensei III Nocturne HD Remaster
Mind Scanners
Biomutant
New Pokémon Snap
Prescription for Sleep: Stardew Valley
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening Original Soundtrack
On this episode of Random Encounter, folks have been playing games! Shocking, right? But for reals, one of the big games this week is Monster Hunter Rise, and Sollosi has been happily hunting along. We were going to get into Disco Elysium: The Final Cut, but someone surprised us all and showed up because we mentioned Lost Judgment and its announcement! THEN we get to Disco Elysium and Eva's hot takes on that brilliant game. All that and more, so take a listen!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Michael Sollosi, Eva Padilla and a surprise panelist!; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Monster Hunter Rise
Disco Elysium: The Final Cut
Lost Judgment
Dream Quests and Desires: An Interview with Disco Elysium’s Justin Keenan
Fantasian (Part One)
Outriders
Atelier Sophie: The Alchemist of the Mysterious Book DX
The Darkside Detective: A Fumble in the Dark
Mass Effect: Legendary Edition
ActRaiser Original Soundtrack and Symphonic Suite
On this episode of Random Encounter, we get to talk about some remasters and a re-release! Originally out in 2018, Hero U has made its way to the Switch, and Hilary got her glorious quest on! While we all know Jono's thoughts on SaGa, Brian has been playing SaGa Frontier Remastered and is a bit more positive about it. Lastly, Alana has gotten to revisit an old favourite of hers, as NeiR: Replicant ver.1.22474487139… makes its way internationally, giving us the purest NieR experience as it was arguably intended. All this and more, so come have a listen while we chat!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Alana Hagues, Hilary Andreff, Brian MacKenzie; Edited by Jono Logan
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This Episode's Related Links:Crowdfunding Chronicles: Spring 2021 Special Edition
SaGa Frontier Remastered
Judgment
Monster Hunter Rise
Bravely Default II
NieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139…
Steam Prison
Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne HD Remaster Preview
On this episode of Random Encounter, the panel comes together to talk about Square Enix's latest offering, Outriders, that Abe's reviewing for the site. Meanwhile, Caitlin has enthusiastically jumped into the unique, artful world of Fantasian on Apple Arcade. Some random side-banter and a fun discovery for Caitlin gives us a swell little episode for your ears!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Caitlin Argyros, Abe Kobylanski; Edited by Greg Delmage
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This Episode's Related Links:OutridersFantasian
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Holomento
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Story of Seasons: Pioneers of Olive Town
Monster Hunter: World & Iceborne
Neptunia Virtual Stars
Curse of the Dead Gods
Evil Inside
The Life and Suffering of Sir Brante
Monster Train – The Last Divinity DLC
On this episode of Random Encounter, we’ve got a panel talkin’ about nothing new but some things new to us. Most of us are still journeying through Bravely Default II! Nicholas got through Yakuza 5 and has his sights set on Yakuza 6, planning to make good on his 100% achievement quest. Brian’s gotten himself back into Fire Emblem: Three Houses, but with a twist, which has intrigued other FE fans! Quinton’s along for the ride and loving all of it, having dipped into most of the games discussed. Oh, and he makes Jono and I want to play FFXIV (no surprise there…!). All this, and more, so get into it and listen!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Quinton O’Connor, Nicholas Whaley, Brian Mackenzie; Edited by Micah Coates
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This Episode's Related Links:Bravely Default II
Yakuza 5
Yakuza 6
Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Final Fantasy XIV
The Best Games of the PlayStation Store: PSOne and PS2
The Case for Warriors Games and the RPG Fan
Shattered – Tale of the Forgotten King
Cyanide & Happiness – Freakpocalypse
Brigandine: The Legend of Runersia
On this episode of Random Encounter, the panel talks about what they've been playing lately and then dives into some RPGs with underlined titles (mostly.) The Project Triangle Strategy demo is pretty great, but needs some work. Bravely Default II is out now and it's a big one we've been looking forward to! So far, it holds up! So, come listen to some great discussion!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Michael Sollosi, Nicholas Whaley, Brian Mackenzie; Edited by Greg Delmage
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This Episode's Related Links:Project Triangle Strategy
Bravely Default II
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Roots of Pacha
Project Triangle Strategy’s Invisible Feature and the Trials of Gaming while Colorblind
The Ugly Side of Paradise: A Deeper Look at Pokémon Sun & Moon’s Team Skull
Xenoblade Chronicles’ Affinity for Relativity
Half Past Fate: Romantic Distancing
Everhood
Viola: The Heroine’s Melody
Scarlet Hollow – Episode 1
Ocean’s Heart
Gnosia
Kowloon High-School Chronicle
The Outer Worlds: Murder on Eridanos DLC
Chernobylite Preview
Good Night, Knight Preview
Monster Hunter Rise: Demo Version 2 Preview
On this episode of Random Encounter, we bring on a couple of RPGFan staff to discuss ethnic diversity and representation in games, and what that's meant to them over the years. It's a tough topic to discuss, cause it's big. In the spirit of this discussion, alongside some research, Greg is finally getting into a pair of neat games by POC developers, Aurion: Legacy of the Kori-Odan, and Treachery in Beatdown City. And of course, we can't ignore the latest news from Nintendo or the Sony State of Play announcements! This episode had some great discussion, and we hope we handled the subject matter well. Enjoy the listen!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Neal Chandran, Dom Kim; Edited by Greg Delmage
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This Episode's Related Links:
Crowdfunding Chronicles: BROK the InvestiGator
Crowdfunding Chronicles: The Sky Left Us
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Beacon Pines
The Glitch in Transistor’s System
Don’t Lose Hope for The Legend of Zelda’s 35th Anniversary Celebration Just Yet
So you want to get into The Shin Megami Tensei Series…
RPGFan Games of the Year 2020: Overall Awards
Woodsalt
Atelier Ryza 2: Lost Legends & the Secret Fairy
Heaven’s Vault
Ys IX: Monstrum Nox
Collection of SaGa Final Fantasy Legend
Sword of the Necromancer
Persona 5 Strikers
Calico
Encodya
Dragonborne
Werewolf: The Apocalypse – Heart of the Forest
Nioh 2: The First Samurai DLC
Project Triangle Strategy Demo Impressions
King Arthur: Knight’s Tale Preview: The Dead Man Who Would Be King
The Celtic Link: Themes From “The Legend of Zelda”
On this episode of Random Encounter, a whole new set of voices join our hosts to discuss the rest of the Best of the Year 2020 feature! Some new staff and special guests get into the various categories and the games that set themselves apart, as well as their individual recommendations that stole their hearts. Come listen to the second part of our big end of year bonanza!
Disclaimer: There was a minor issue with some of this episode's audio, which we apologize for. Thanks for your patience with the technical difficulty.
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Abraham Kobylanski, Wes Iliff, Audra Bowling, Eric Irving, Robert "Hat" Hatfield; Edited by Greg Delmage
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This Episode's Related Links:
RPGFan Games of the Year 2020: Overall Awards
RPGFan Games of the Year 2020: Editors’ AwardsFinal Fantasy VII Remake
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim
Hades
Kentucky Route Zero
Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin
Genshin Impact
Tales of Crestoria
Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers
Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition
Crusader Kings III
Wintermoor Tactics Club
Moon
Cadence of Hyrule – Crypt of the NecroDancer Featuring the Legend of Zelda
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
On this episode of Random Encounter, we look back at the best of 2020 in conjunction with the written feature of the same theme! The panel largely discusses the big contenders: Final Fantasy VII Remake, Hades and 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim. But we suitably go off on our own loves from the past year as well. Give a listen and see what's hot with the RPGFan.com crew!
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This Episode's Related Links:
RPGFan Games of the Year 2020: Overall Awards
RPGFan Games of the Year 2020: Editors’ AwardsFinal Fantasy VII Remake
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim
Hades
On this episode of Random Encounter, Greg and Jono are stalling for time! We kid. Greg's been playing the newly launched Ocean's Heart, having a great time adventuring in this Legend of Zelda-like, which inspires some chat of the magic of the Zelda series! As for Jono, he's been playing a game... or has he? There Is No Game: Wrong Dimension has grabbed his attention, and he's been enjoying unpacking whatever it is! A fun question and idle chit chat as per usual, on this episode!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan; Edited by Greg Delmage
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom
This Episode's Related Links:
Ocean's Heart
Finding Family in a Sea of Stars: Rogue Galaxy’s Greatest Treasure
RPGFan Music of the Year 2020
Monster Hunter Rise: Demo Preview
Persona 5 Strikers Preview
Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers – Patch 5.4 Review
Torchlight III Review
Mother 3 Review
Neversong Review
Kentucky Route Zero: TV Edition Review
Autumn’s Journey Review
Transience: A NieR Synthwave Tribute
On this episode of Random Encounter, we break into 2021! We've got a few panelists chatting about some of their favourite releases of last year. Alana's been trying to catch up with some popular hits and dove into the bizarre world of Paradies Killer, finding it the ideal murder mystery to listen to while studying. Neal revealed the indie action RPG Luminous Plume and we get into some thoughts on where this one could go. Then there's the Collection of SaGa: Final Fantasy Legend that Zach's been plugging away at for the site, which are definitely dated, but it's a neat package to get into and test your nostalgia with. Finally, we ask this group just what it is they're most looking forward from the RPG genre in 2021. The usual side-chat and more for your listening pleasure!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Neal Chandran, Alana Hagues, Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Brian Ingemanson
This Episode's Related Links:
Paradise Killer
Luminous Plume
Collection of SaGa
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Vesper: Ether Saga
So you want to get into the Neptunia Series…
Blitzball: Final Fantasy X’s Unsung Hero
Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon & the Blade of Light
Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age – Definitive Edition
Marvel’s Avengers: Taking A.I.M.
Cyberpunk 2077
Romancing SaGa Re;univerSe
Yakuza: Like a Dragon Get in Touch:
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On this episode of Random Encounter, Jono has braved the wastes of
Appalachia in Fallout 76 and, well, it's not as bad as it once was. Despite not expecting to get into it so soon, Greg has been playing Cyberpunk 2077, and so has Tooker, so they have some thoughts to chat out on this incredibly contentious release. A fun question from our guest panelist and chatter rounds out the episode, so enjoy!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, John "Tooker" Tucker; Edited by Greg Delmage
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom
This Episode's Related Links:
Fallout 76
Cyberpunk 2077
RPGFan Games of the Year 2020: Readers’ Choice Voting
RPGFan’s 30 Most Anticipated Games of 2021
Minoria
Luminous Plume
Period: Cube ~Shackles of Amadeus~
The Falconeer
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's just Greg and Jono talkin' about some games of (relative) yore! Greg wrapped up on the stellar Horizon Zero Dawn and shares his final thoughts. This means Greg has time for Chrono Cross, for better or worse! Feeling the bug for Cyberpunk 2077, Jono decided to fill the void with Fallout 4 and many, many, mods that sound awesome! Of course, we can't ignore that reviews are out on Cyberpunk 2077 and it's... all over the place. All this and a listener email, so come have a listen!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan; Edited by Greg Delmage
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom
This Episode's Related Links:
Horizon Zero Dawn
Chrono Cross
Fallout 4
Cyberpunk 2077
On this episode of Random Encounter, Greg and Quinton discuss their adventures in the latest Pokemon Sword and Shield DLC, The Crown Tundra, which has proven to be a solid addition to the game. Jono had a storied experience with Yakuza: Like a Dragon, but has completed this gem that you oughta' play! The PlayStation 5 and X Box Series X have hit the streets, so what does the team think of them? What will they get? Lastly, happy belated N7 day! Mass Effect is finally coming back, remastered and likely better than ever, so we're pretty excited for that! All this, and more, on the episode!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Quinton O'Connor; Edited by Brian Ingemanson
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
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This Episode's Related Links:Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Pokémon Sword & Shield: The Crown Tundra
Mass Effect: Legendary Edition
Flashback Friday: An Adventure through a Tower of Doom in the Arcade
We Saved the World… Now What? Exploring Final Fantasy X-2’s Theme of Rebuilding
Review: Genshin Impact
Review: Othercide
Review: Café Enchanté
Review: Buried Stars
Review: Robotics;Notes DaSH
On this episode of Random Encounter, Greg continues his clicking in Torchlight III but seems ready to wrap it up. He has also been trudging through The Crown Tundra with his pokémon a bit, but has much more to do there. Caitlin was eagerly awaiting Trails of Cold Steel IV, but has been left wanting a bit. What has blown her away is her time with Genshin Impact! Finally, Yakuza: Like a Dragon has really put the Tojo Clan into crises as Jono will happily explain! A bit o' side chat and more, so have a listen!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Caitlin Argyros; Edited by Brian Ingemanson
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
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This Episode's Related Links:
Torchlight III
Pokémon Sword & Shield: The Crown Tundra
Genshin Impact
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're on video!
That's right, you can see the faces (if you want) of some of your RPGFan podcast hosts on this special 200th episode!
We take a look back at the episode that started it all with Rob Steinman and the crew, while still talking about the stuff we've been playing lately! Mike's been loving 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim when he's not playing Retro Encounter games, and we take a nice little detour with all that. Jono finally pried himself from Spelunky 2 long enough to try out Streets Of Kamurocho, a fun RPG-adjacent offering from SEGA. As for Greg, Torchlight III has been occupying his time. We take a look at the games discussed 10 years prior and then dive into the same topic Rob first posed: what do we all think about RPG elements creeping into other genres? All this, and a lot more, for you to listen to!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Mike Sollosi; Edited by Greg Delmage
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
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This Episode's Related Links:Random Encounter Ep. 200 on YouTube
Random Encounter Ep. 1
On this episode of Random Encounter, well, a few things happened! Greg's pretty excited about his time with the recently released Star Renegades, so here's hoping you are too! Quinton's a newcomer to Random and brings in his experience with P5 Royal, and we all share thoughts on problematic elements in games that don't always age well. Aside from asides, Jono's only delved into some off-brand games, but they're good ones worth hearing about! Finally, some RPG-adjacent Smash news that's pretty neat, so why not talk a bit about that? Come check out the conversation!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Quinton O'Connor; Edited by Brian Ingemanson
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
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This Episode's Related Links:Star Renegades
Persona 5 Royal Review
Flashback Friday 5: PlayStation
Beyond the Sunset: Skies of Arcadia’s Endless Optimism 20 Years On
Defending Champions: The Best RPGs of Every Year Since Dragon Quest (1987–1999)
Defending Champions: The Best RPGs of Every Year Since Dragon Quest (2000–2009)
Defending Champions: The Best RPGs of Every Year Since Dragon Quest (2010–2019)
Hades Review
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles Remastered Edition Review
Robotics;Notes ELITE Review
Banner of the Maid: The Oriental Pirate DLC Review
The Outer Worlds: Peril on Gorgon DLC Review
Nioh 2: The Tengu’s Disciple DLC Review
On this episode of Random Encounter, we talk about the news from both Microsoft and Sony, as well as our hype for FFXVI's reveal! Greg chats about his adventures in Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles Remaster and if it's worth getting into! Pete made a case to cover Crusader Kings III for the site, and are we glad he did cause the stories are wild! Getting Jono back into The Outer Wilds for Peril on Gorgon was an easy task, and he's glad this new adventure seems to hold up! Finally, Nathan and I are both excited for more farming with Rune Factory 5 getting some more coverage recently and can't wait for it to release! Idle chit-chat is at its minimum, but come listen to us anyway!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Nathan Lee, Pete Leavitt; Edited by Greg Delmage
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
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This Episode's Related Links:
Final Fantasy XVI Reveal
Rune Factory 5 Brings The Beloved Series Back in 2021
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Dwerve
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Scarlet Republics
Friday Flashback: When, How, and Why I Fell in Love with Wild ARMs
Friday Flashback: Fat Stacks (of Actual Paper) OR How I Learned to Play Sakura Wars
Feature - RPGs as Therapy II: How RPGs (Still) Makes Us Better
Review - 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim
Review - Marvel's Avengers
Review - Summer in Mara
Review - Snack World: The Dungeon Crawl - Gold
Review - Paradise Killer
Review - Hotel Sowls
On this episode of Random Encounter, the panelists assemble to talk music! Yes, Rhythm Encounter is back and we're here to share in some of the love! Greg, Jono, and Mike have picked 3 albums from there "to listen" lists and are here to share their thoughts and a few of their choice tracks! Stay a while, and listen!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Mike Salbato; Edited by Micah Coates
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
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This Episode's Related Links:
The Celtic Link: Themes from "The Legend of Zelda"
Beer SQ
OCTOPATH TRAVELER Break, Boost and Beyond Live!
On this episode of Random Encounter, Hilary needs you to know that Iron Danger is great and you should probably play it! After the Nintendo Indie showcase, Raji: An Ancient Epic caught Hilary's attention and she dishes on her experience so far! Rogue Legacy 2 has opened its Early Access phase and is so far shaping up to match its predecessor. Jo has been adventuring in Suikoden II and is a true Star of Destiny themselves. If the hype of Suikoden isn't enough, we're all stoked for Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes! Lastly, the pending release of Yakuza: Like a Dragon has Jono on the edge of his seat and willing to fight Jo, or any others, to review it! Episode 200 is coming, so give us your suggestions for what you want to hear on it!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Hilary Andreff, Jo Padilla; Edited by Brian Ingemanson
Get in Touch:RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
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On this episode of Random Encounter we find out about Mario's latest RPG adventure, Paper Mario: The Origami King from Tooker. Necrobarista spins a beautiful yarn and looks great doing it, and Zach lets us know all his feels. Greg's been island-hopping in Summer in Mara, loving the simple adventure for the escape it is! Lastly, Jono wanted Greg's take on Murder by Numbers!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, John "Tooker" Tucker, Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Brian Ingemanson
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
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On this episode of Random Encounter we talk about how Pokemon Sword & Shield's DLC Isle of Armor brings some new elements to the title for Peter and Gwen to dish about! Tooker adventured in the depths of Minecraft Dungeons, which Gwen recently got for her birthday and has been playing with her dad. Nintendo Directs aren't just for Nintendo anymore! Are other companies using them effectively during this con. season hiatus?
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, John "Tooker" Tucker, Peter Triezenberg, Gwen; Edited by Micah Coates
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
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This Episode's Related Links:
Review - Pokemon Sword & Shield: The Isle of Armor
Review - Minecraft Dungeons
RPGFan.com Under Maintenance
Crowdfunding Chronicles - Arcadia Fallen
Review - Operencia: The Stolen Sun
Review - Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2
Review - Arc of Alchemist
Preview - Monster Crown
Music Review - Parallelus
On this episode of Random Encounter:
- Jono jumped back to the 90s to solve puzzles and crimes in Murder By Numbers!
- Greg finally adventured in Link's Awakening playing the Switch remake!
- CrossCode got ported to the Switch, but according to Jono it didn't make the transition smoothly...
- A few listener emails get peppered throughout the episode
- And just general chitchat, like we do!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan; Edited by Greg Delmage
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom
This Episode's Related Links:Crowdfunding Chronicles: Whateverland
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Corven - Path of Redemption
Brigandine: The Legend of Runersia Interview with Producer and Game Designer Kazuhiro Igarashi
To The Top: Virginia and Disunity
So you want to get into The Trails Series...
So You Want to Get Into Ys
So you want to Start An Atelier...
If Found...
Pokémon Sword & Shield: The Isle of Armor
Brigandine: The Legend of Runersia
The Outer Worlds
Pillars of Dust
Persona 4 Golden
Death Come True
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III
Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town
Her Story
BoxxyQuest: The Gathering Storm
Minecraft Dungeons
EPOCH: A Tribute to Chrono Trigger
On this episode of Random Encounter:
- Staff members sat down for a special Pride Month episode all about queerness and RPGs!
- Topics include the community, our first encounters with LGBTQ+ media, and which games we feel represent us well... and maybe not so well!
- Games covered include Timespinner, Persona 2, If Found..., and more.
Featuring: Jo Padilla, Alana Hagues, Caitlin Argyros, Leona McCallum
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom
This Episode's Related Links:Timespinner Review
If Found... Review
Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 2 Innocent Sin (PSP) Review
Persona 2: Eternal Punishment (PSone) Review
On this episode of Random Encounter:
- Everyone weighs in on their fave bits from the PS5 reveal event!
- The Outer Worlds has hit the Switch in Tooker's hot hands, but does it hold up? Jono wants to know!
- With the return of Xenoblade Chronicles, Steph has made room in her schedule for some necessary Reyn Time!
- Patrick commandeers the podcast for SaGa talk, and really, no one is disappointed!
- Maneater is an RPG about a shark. What's not to love? Neal gives us the best bites from this open-water RPG!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Steph Sybydlo, Patrick Gann, John Tucker, Neal Chandran
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom
This Episode's Related Links:
Black Lives Matter
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Weaving Tides
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Black Book
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Externus — Path of the Solari
Ogre Battle 64 Challenges the Notion of a "Person of Lordly Caliber"
Great Games to Play While You're Still at Home
Hero Must Die. Again Review
Utawarerumono: Prelude to the Fallen Review
Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling Review
Maneater Review
Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition Review
Persona 4 Golden Review-in-Progress: Now on Steam!
Monster Train Review
RPGFan Music: Octopath Traveler Break, Boost and Beyond Live! Review + Video
Patrick Gann's SaGa Scarlet Grace: Ambitions Trophy Guide
Patrick Gann's Romancing SaGa 2 Trophy Guide
Patrick Gann's Romancing SaGa 3 Trophy Guide
On this episode of Random Encounter:
- We got news on Paper Mario: The Origami King and our bodies are ready to be folded into this new adventure!
- Bug Fables definitely takes some notes from Paper Mario, as Alana elucidates for us!
- What's an episode without Yakuza? Well, another episode, but Jono has gone back to Yakuza 0 to refresh his memories!
- Greg got gacha'd by Final Fantasy Brave Exvius: War of the Visions!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Alana Hagues
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom
This Episode's Related Links:Black Lives Matter - Check this out to find ways to lend support
Black Game Developers
Aurion: Legacy of the Kori-Odan
Sweetxheart
Treachery in Beatdown City
She Dreams Elsewhere
Cryamore
Clique
One Man Left Studios
Xalavier Nelson Jr.
Brass Lion Entertainment
Pelvic Gaming with Lady Pelvic
Geak
Zoe Amira Fundraiser
Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling
On this episode of Random Encounter:
- The gang picks up their jaws and discuss the Unreal 5 PS5 tech demo!
- There was also that XBox Series X presentation that happened, too.
- Pete's been plugging away at Ogre Battle 64: Person of Lordly Caliber for a feature in progress, giving him thoughts of revolution!
- Horizon Zero Dawn is a hard game and Greg's still trying to get better at it and beat it!
- Terrible Toybox hit us with Delores: A Thimbleweed Park Mini-Adventure and Jono ran through it!
- In that same vein, Jono's FINALLY getting his thoughts out on Her Story!
- To cap off his Bravely adventures Jono has played the Bravely Default 2 demo and we address more listener mail on the subject!Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Pete Leavitt
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom
This Episode's Related Links:Crowdfunding Chronicles: My Only Sunshine
More Than Just a Flower Girl: A Personal Thank You to Aerith Gainsborough
Romancing SaGa Re;univerSe Interview with SaGa Series Producer Masanori Ichikawa
You Can (Not) Redo: Examining The Ending of Final Fantasy VII Remake
Review: Planet Stronghold 2
Review: The Procession to Calvary
Review: Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition
Review: The Pale City
Review: Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood
Review: Celestian Tales: Realms Beyond
Music Review: The Keyblade War
Music Review: Ys VIII Super Ultimate
On this episode of Random Encounter:
- the remake of Trials of Mana is here and Greg got into it with gusto!
- Sakura Wars is anime, and anime anime anime Nathan anime'd!
- Neal partakes of an 80s after school special in Wintermoor Tactics Club!
- we got listener mail!
- Jono's knee-deep in Bravely Second and is about ready for Bravely Default 2!
- we talk about our preferred RPG tastes, be they western or eastern!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Nathan Lee, Neal Chandran
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfan
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom
This Episode's Related Links:
Fists of Fury: Organized Crime and Futility in Yakuza Kiwami
So you want to Start An Atelier...
Memories of Midgar: Our Favorite Moments from the Mechanical Metropolis of Final Fantasy VII
Finding Lost Jerusalem: Why You Should Play Xenosaga
"Man Must Own the World": Final Fantasy XIV, Gaius van Baelsar, and The Praetorium Speech
Even if Our Words Seem Meaningless: Yoko Taro's Plea for Universal Empathy in NieR
Sakura Wars Review
Trials of Mana Review
Wintermoor Tactics Club
(Officially) Introducing a New Podcast Experience at RPGFan
- We have been wanting it, and now we're playing it! Alana and Jo dish on FFVII Remake for us.
- Jono's wrapped things up with Bravely Default and is ready to move onto the next!
- Indie retro-style RPG Pillars of Dust has offered a fun, nostalgia-inspired adventure for Greg.
- We discuss how remakes and homages use nostalgia in different ways, for better or worse!
- A listener email has been received!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Alana Hagues, Jo Padilla
Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfan
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom
This Episode's Related Links:
Final Fantasy VII Remake Review
Final Fantasy VII Remake Video Review
Persona 5 Royal Review
Shin Megami Tensei: Liberation Dx2 Review
Sakura Wars Preview
Little Town Hero Video Review
Bravely Default Review
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Chinatown Detective Agency
"Man Must Own the World": Final Fantasy XIV Article
On this episode of Random Encounter:
- Jono wraps up on his Yakuza experiences with Judgment. That's all... FOR NOW!
- Tyler is here to regale us with his tales from Dragon Quest XI S, to tell us how the improvements between versions stack up.
- Nathan reviewed Rune Factory 4 Special Edition for us, so Greg and he get into the finer points of digital anime farming!
- The Bravely Default II Demo was a nice surprise that Greg picked up, and Jono has just started up Bravely Default in anticipation of the sequel.
- Finally, Nathan has been working his way through Persona 5 Royal and is quite delighted with the improvements brought to this version!
- DISCLAIMER Due to the given circumstances of folks staying at home due to COVID-19, Nathan's audio features his family in the background lol.
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Nathan Lee, Tyler Trosper
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - everyone on the episode has played the FFVIIR Demo, so we wanna' talk about it! - Greg got into the Trials of Mana Demo in anticipation of its coming release! - Caitlin's experience in FFXIV: Shadowbringers 5.2 is different from Mike's, so we definitely wanna' hear about it! - Jono WAS gonna' quit Yakuza (the Dark Souls of Jono Logan) for a bit after finishing 5 Remastered, but then he didn't! He's gettin' into Yakuza 6 and Judgement! More fistcuffs! - we certainly can't skirt the elephant in the room that is COVID-19, but don't worry, we don't belabor the point, because... - ...SILLY TIMES AHEAD! Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Shadowbringers 5.2 has dropped since someone last said "FFXIV", so Mike's here to discuss it! - Stoneshard, by dev Hypetrain, has gotten Greg on its hypetrain, even if it's challenging as heck! - Jono has wrapped up his time with Yakuza 5 and is ready for more of that gang life! - In anticipation of a future Retro Encounter, Mike's spent a lot of time with Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore! - The FFVIIR demo has dropped and it's looking sharp! - E3 is on the horizon, but will it survive COVID-19, let alone the changing times? (After this recorded, it turns out, NO.) Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Mike Sollosi Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Greg manages to find his way of the dungeon in Wizardry: Labyrinth of Lost Souls long enough to talk about it! - Jono has been kicking, punching, and singing his way through Yakuza, the latest being Yakuza 5! - The backlog is real, we all know that, and Jono has been doing his darndest these past weeks to clear his out! - Chit chat about some other stuff! Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Nathan has gone back to Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE now that it's on Switch, and so far, the port holds up! - The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance Tactics just dropped and Greg is here to discuss what works and what doesn't! - The PSO2 Beta is live and Caitlin is one of the team members exploring space now that it (was) here on Western shores! - a listener email reminds us we're loved! - side chat and more! Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Nathan Lee Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Greg tried out the Pokemon Mystery Dungeon Rescue Team DX demo, reveling in its sweetness! - Pete has immersed himself in Harebrained Scheme's latest expansion to BATTLETECH and is living his best merc life! - Continuing the trend of dungeon-delving, Greg has dipped into the "Wizardry Renaissance" that Wizardry: Labyrinth of Lost Souls has brought West! - Less talk about cork floors! Featuring: Greg Delmage, Pete Leavitt Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Our panelists cover the last of this years awards! - It's mostly Cold Steel III and Shadowbringers from this point on, but so much good stuff came to us in 2019! - We shout out to readers/listeners! - A Jedi baby? Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Peter Triezenberg, Jono Logan Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Our panelists cover the next few categories in this year's awards! - As before, we maybe didn't all play everything (too many games), but we all have thoughts! - Danger, the enemy is approaching. Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Peter Triezenberg, Tyler Trosper Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Our panelists cover the first few categories in this years awards - Some of the games we got to play, others we really want to, and a few aren't even on our radar! To each their own! - Happy New Year! We chit chat about the holidays and such! Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jonathan Logan, Peter Triezenberg, Tyler Trosper Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter:
- Talkin' bout Trails and FFXIV news!
- What did we love about 2019?
- What do we resolve to game with in 2020?
- What are our wildest hopes for next year!?
- Happy Holidays, folks!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Jono experienced Romancing SaGa 3, reviewed it, and you should probably hear him discuss it. - SD Gundam G Generation Cross Rays is a mouthful to say, but Kyle is not only up to playing it, but telling us about this well-known little-known series! - Neverwinter Nights: Enhanced Edition has made its way to consoles and Greg is muddling his way through it! - Listeners have questions, we have answers! - And we talk some Christmas nonsense (and Abercrombie Video & Variety) to kick it all off!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Kyle Kortvely
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - After a wait of almost 2 decades, Shenmue III picks up without missing a beat for Alana! - Cope Island: Adrift deals with the feels as Greg explores its intriguing world and narrative! - Everyone (well, ALMOST everyone) has been playing new Pokemon, and all three on the cast are of that majority! - And a few side quests (diversions!) fill out the episode quite nicely!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jo Padilla, Alana Hagues
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Caitlin spent a lot of time with Trails of Cold Steel III and has plenty to say about it (almost all good!) - If you didn't read his review, then Jono is here to say more about how great exploring The Outer Worlds was! - Having had the unfortunate displeasure of experiencing all that went wrong with Fallout 76, Jono was the perfect person to discuss "Fallout 1st" with! - Alongside usual chitchat, we field listener questions once more!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Jono Logan
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Nathan's been playing GameFreak's latest, Little Town Hero and isn't quite sure where it sits! - Greg finishes off Monster Hunter World: Iceborne strong and looks forward to the endgame grind. - Ni No Kuni Remastered brings some new polish to an older title, though Nathan thinks it's mostly for fans. - Finally having time again, Greg's gone back to Wargroove to see if he can finish Mercia's quest! - And we discuss some new games on the horizon, the swell Doraemon: Story of Seasons demo, and whatever else came to mind!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Nathan Lee
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Mark talks Link's Awakening for Switch! - Greg talks Monster Hunter World: Iceborne! - Jo has hopped into the "definitive version" of Dragon Quest XI! - Mark loves Final Fantasy VIII, while Jo is starting to realize how bonkers it gets! - We actually mention Kamen Rider (and mecha and poutine and other shenanigans!)
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jo Padilla, Mark Tjan
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Greg gets into the first big expansion for Moonlighter, Between Dimensions! - Pete gushes over Star Traders: Frontiers and how it does so much right for an RPG/space/management game! - These two nerd out about their shared love of all things mecha, but mostly Battletech/Mechwarrior! - And some news and a sufficient amount of sidequesting (aka off-topic digressions!)
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Pete Leavitt
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - We all talk about Nintendo Direct news! So many RPGs! - FFVIII Remaster is shaping up nicely for Jo's first time, and Leona's loving the revisit. - Nathan reviewed Fire Emblem: Three Houses for us and absolutely loved it. Leona's been all about her upside-down boy in it as well! Both on their second playthroughs, they've plenty to talk about. - September has so many new games to offer, so we quickly chat about what we are anticipating the most! - And, as always, shenanigans on the side!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Nathan Lee, Jo Padilla, Leona McCallum
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Dragon Quest Builders 2 is out and everyone (but Greg :( ) is playing it! - What Greg IS playing is Undertale. FINALLY. - There is also some talk of FFXIV and Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, as well as a little news!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Alana Hagues, Mike Salbato, Lucy Gray
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Mike and Greg gab about Trials of Mana (some more!) - Joe goes in a bit deeper on Persona Q2 - Caitlin's been knee-deep in Shadowbringers and Mike still has some adventuring to do before he reaches that content - Bloodstained is a resounding success of a Kickstarter that Mike has been digging!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi, and Joe Czop
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Those of us who weren't at E3 briefly talk about our favourite surprises. - Greg mentioned Druidstone: The Secret of the Menhir Forest that one time, but actually talks about it and all its SRPG goodness! - Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth has been out for a bit and Nathan has been jumping into the movies to find an escape! - Peter is stoked for Tales of Arise, so he decided he should probably play some Tales of again, starting with Tales of Berseria! - Zach has passed judgment on Judgment! - Exploring space with its myriad denizens has kept Greg busy lately in Citizens of Space! - Nathan's love of Neptunia is nothing new, but Super Neptunia RPG is and he has some thoughts! - And finally, we chat a bit about the drama surrounding Pokemon Sword and Shield's Pokedex woes that have ignited the fandom. - Plus the usual sidetracked shenanigans!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Peter Triezenberg, Nathan Lee, Zach Wilkerson
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Corey and Zach make their Random debut! - long time staff and friends get the rare opportunity to hang in the same room! - The RPGFan staff in attendance chat about what they've seen or gotten their hands on at E3 2019 down in Los Angeles! - find out what games received Game of Show awards from us!
Featuring: Michael Sollosi, Mike Salbato, Alana Hagues, Stephanie Sybydlo, Hilary Andreff, Corey Hall, Zach Wilkerson
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Caitlin talks about her adventures in The Legend of Heroes series as she anticipates Trails of Cold Steel III! - Mike's gotten back into FFXIV, so naturally, we talk about it like Steinman talks about Dark Souls! - Greg played Druidstone, but he'll talk about later because... - We get to talk about E3! What's confirmed, what we hope, and what we wildly speculate!
Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, and Mike Sollosi
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Greg, Hilary, and new to Random Encounter, Lucy, comment, speculate, and reminisce in the wake of the Final Fantasy VII Remake trailer that just dropped Thursday, Apr. 9! - Greg briefly takes us into the trailer for Monster Hunter World: Iceborne that also dropped Thursday, Apr. 9. - Lucy and Hilary are excited to get their hands dirty on the farm once more with the impending 1.4 update for Stardew Valley! - Finally, a listener question has the crew hearkening back to their earlier days of gaming! - Plus a lot of nonsense!
Featuring: Greg Delmage. Hilary Andreff, Lucy Gray
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Mike returns to the world of Eorzea by resubbing to FFXIV, finishes Octopath Traveler (Tressa rules, btw), and briefly chats about Ys: The Oath in Felghana. If you're interested in that last one, be sure to check out Retro this month! - Alana tells the gang about a sweet little visual novel called Arcade Spirits. If dating or just being friends with a bunch of cool arcade nerds sounds like fun, this game might be right up your alley. - Baten Kaitos is a somewhat forgotten GameCube gem, but Alana has plenty of love for it as she engages in a series replay. - Caitlin is gearing up for this fall's Trails of Cold Steel III by playing all of the Kiseki games she can get her hands on. She's currently halfway through the Sky trilogy, and is having an absolute blast! - The gang rounds out the episode by chatting about some recent news and answering a listener question about modern classics.
Featuring: Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi, Alana Hagues
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Peter dishes on what is finally the final Final Fantasy XV DLC, Episode Ardyn and its dashing pro-antagonist. - For its 20th anniversary, the Atelier series has brought everyone together in Nelke & the Legendary Alchemists: Ateliers of the New World, so Nathan decided to make it his first! - Greg is still knee deep in the battlefields of Left Alive, but got to reflect on some good times revisiting Chrono Trigger with his daughter. - It has been noted by Nathan that RPGFan has woefully overlooked covering Dragalia Lost for review, which he means to remedy! - And in anticipation of Pokemon Sword and Shield, Peter has dusted off Pokemon White to slake his need to catch 'em all! Featuring: Greg Delmage, Peter Triezenberg, Nathan Lee Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
- Greg and Caitlin talk about the games they've been playing recently. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild gives Greg a much-needed break from Left Alive (more on that later), Caitlin recently finished God of War and wants more, and our resident Eorzean representative is always down to pontificate on FFXIV. - Greg gets all sparkly-eyed for FFIX, now better than ever on Nintendo Switch! Should you consider playing this classic Final Fantasy again? (Spoiler: the answer is yes.) - Caitlin updates us on recent progress with indie wonder Edge of Eternity. Is it still smooth sailing for this ambitious project? - Greg wants to love Left Alive. He really does. But Left Alive doesn't want to love him. Can they make this troubled relationship work? Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Caitlin tells us about the troubled launch of Anthem. Is there any hope for a comeback from BioWare? - Greg, Caitlin, and Mike talk about the newly revealed Pokemon Sword and Pokemon Shield, and a special guest appears to share her thoughts! What are the gang looking forward to in this new generation of Pokemon? - Mike reminds us of the upcoming summer RPG-pocalypse, including Persona Q2, Judgment, Oninaki, Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers, Shenmue 3, Fire Emblem: Three Houses and many more! - We wrap up the episode with a thought-provoking listener question about games we just couldn't get into, no matter how hard we tried. Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi Special Guest: Gwen Reilly Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Caitlin catches up on two excellent 2018 RPGs, God of War and Octopath Traveler, and also checks out The Division 2 beta. - Greg tells us about all the good doggos in Wargroove, the new SRPG from Chucklefish. - Nathan dishes on Death End re;Quest, a visual novel/turn-based JRPG hybrid where players must escape from a glitched out MMO world. - Finally, we have loads of news from the latest Nintendo Direct, including our first look at Fire Emblem: Three Houses, a new title from Tokyo RPG Factory, and new Rune Factory games! Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Nathan Lee Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
After our smashing Games of the Year episode, we're back to our regularly scheduled RPG talk, helmed by the ebullient Greg Delmage! On this episode of Random Encounter: - Greg and Caitlin chat about the recent Anthem demo. Can BioWare outdo Bungie with their take on the Destiny formula? - Mike gushes about Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition. One of the best Tales games gets even better with all the added content from the PS3 version of this classic RPG. - Caitlin tells the crew about Edge of Eternity, a gorgeous indie RPG that recently entered early access. It's got an interesting premise, a fusion of ATB and SRPG combat, and a huge, beautiful world that feels inspired by the Xenoblade series. - If you're looking for a mobile game that feels like a full-fledged RPG, Another Eden: The Cat Beyond Time and Space might just be worth checking out. Greg introduces us to the sights and sounds of this cute little game. - Kingdom Hearts III is finally here! Peter tells us all about the long-awaited conclusion to the beloved series. - We wrap things up with a listener question about how reviewing games affects our enjoyment of them. Editor's Note: We had some technical difficulties with this episode, so you may hear some background noise from time to time. Rest assured, we are working on improving the quality of our recordings, and we apologize for this little mishap. Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi, Peter Triezenberg Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - It's our annual Games of the Year episode! Join four of RPGFan's enthusiastic editors as we discuss the site's awards for the best RPGs of 2018. Don't forget to check out our written feature over at https://www.rpgfan.com/features/go2018/index.html. - With 2019 already in full swing, the year's first major release, Kingdom Hearts III, is only weeks away. We discuss Square Enix's update strategy for ensuring a spoiler-free launch experience. - Other news bytes include Bungie's acquisition of Destiny from Activision, release dates for Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster and Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age on Switch, and the surprise debut of Catherine Classic on PC. - We close the show with some important news about what's next for Random Encounter. Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Greg Delmage, Peter Triezenberg, Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - It's our final show of 2018! The core trio of Derek, Caitlin, and Greg get together for a leisurely chat on what we've been playing over the past few weeks, from Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together to Final Fantasy Tactics: War of the Lions. Okay, so it's a lot of games with "Tactics" in the title. - In a year packed with so many games, some were sure to slip through the cracks. Which ones did our crew miss, and which are they hoping to see under the Christmas tree this year, digital or otherwise? - We wrap with some exciting news stories, including the announcement of Ys IX: Monstrum Nox, the official date of Final Fantasy XIV Patch 4.5: A Requiem for Heroes, and the release of a Skies of Arcadia remix album courtesy of OCRemix. Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - The beloved casts of Persona 3 and Persona 5 take to the stage in a pair of all-new dancing games! We briefly check in with Nathan to see how they fare. - The whole crew weighs in with their thoughts on Pokemon: Let's Go, Pikachu and Pokemon: Let's Go, Eevee. Don't miss a special surprise interview with the most adorable guest we've ever had on Random Encounter. - The Game Awards 2018 upped the ante with a magnitude higher level of class than in previous years, as well as a huge number of legitimately exciting game announcements. We delve into all of the major news that came from this year's show surrounding Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3, Hades, Outer Worlds, and the (last) surprise reveal of Joker from Persona 5 as the first DLC character for Super Smash Bros Ultimate. - Other industry news continues to swirl about, including a rumored Switch port for Persona 5, the impending English release of Tales of Crestoria, and a finalized release date for YIIK: A Postmodern RPG after many years of silence. - We wrap the show with a listener question about Anthem and the future of BioWare. Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Nathan Lee Special Guest(s): Gwen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - We've got a glut of new features headed to RPGFan this holiday season, including Top 20 lists, video content, and hot takes on the hottest RPGs from...an eight-year-old's perspective?! Greg has all the details. - Derek's freshly back from a trip to Las Vegas for Final Fantasy XIV Fan Festival 2018. We've got the scoop on what to expect from the game's next expansion, Shadowbringers. - Before dawn breaks, Derek spends a Night in the Woods with Mae Borowski, meditating on the game's themes of aimlessness, depression, and millennial humor. Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Greg Delmage Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Like a bolt from the blue, Toby Fox teased and released his first follow-up to Undertale with only 24 hours of warning. Deltarune took us all by surprise. (Note: Even acknowledging what Deltarune is constitutes something of a spoiler, but we did our best not to delve too heavily into the game for the time being. We'll revisit this one somewhere down the line!) - The PlayStation Classic is out next month. We give our unfiltered thoughts on its game lineup. - Greg's finally gotten around to one of this year's first big hits, Monster Hunter World. How does it hold up at the tail end of 2018? - October may be over, but between season 2 of Netflix's Castlevania and Alana's dive into Castlevania Requiem, there are plenty of ways to stay spooky well into November. - Robert Fenner, resident expert of the bleak and esoteric (among other things--we love a multifaceted boi!), returns with his evaluation of Death Mark. A macabre stroll through dilapidated Japan, this first-person adventure released just shy of Halloween. Is it a trick or a treat? Tune in for the spoopy scoop. - Our enthusiasm for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate mounts with the November 1st reveal of its full roster and RPG-adjacent collectible Spirits. But woe! Why couldn't Chocobo's Dungeon Chocobo have made the cut? Well, there's always DLC. Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Greg Delmage, Alana Hagues, Robert Fenner Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Did Derek lose two days of his life playing Timespinner, or did he perform his own quantum leap? Fenner backs up his rambling adoration for this new-but-retro action RPG in the vein of Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. - Caitlin just finished a marathon stream of everything major in Final Fantasy XIV 4.4: Prelude in Violet. How does this latest batch of content add to the tapestry of Eorzea's ever-expanding narrative? - We've also got a comprehensive discussion of Xenoblade Chronicles 2's new expansion/stand-alone prequel, Torna: The Golden Country. Caitlin takes charge and Derek pushes back! - Assassin's Creed moves even further into RPG territory with Assassin's Creed Odyssey. To whet our appetites for her impending review, Caitlin dishes on her journey through Greece as a descendant of King Leonidas. - Either hell has frozen over or someone at Nintendo is getting a raise, because Derek's playing a gacha game and is actually...enjoying himself?! Dragalia Lost is Nintendo's first original IP for smartphones and it's surprisingly solid. - Listener questions make a brief return! Greg asked our audience on Discord for their questions, and we picked one to respond to. Tune in to find out which! - Following news of Nobuo Uematsu's hiatus and the closure of Telltale Games, we have an impassioned discussion about why burnout is a serious problem in the game industry today. Note: We apologize for some funkiness with the pitch of audio in this episode! We'll be sure to get it sorted out before our next recording. Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros, Robert Fenner, Greg Delmage Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - It's a full house as former Random Encounter hosts Rob Steinman and Stephen Meyerink return (alongside veteran Caitlin Argyros) as special guests to discuss the season's hottest releases! - Metroidvanias: We love 'em, but not every one gets the formula down pat. We discuss what makes Chasm crumble in the face of contemporaries like Hollow Knight. - We tackle the dragon in the room with a lengthy discussion of Dragon Quest XI, including Stephen's experience with the Japanese 3DS version. - Rob, herald of all things Yakuza, delves into what makes Kiwami 2 the best Yakuza game yet. - Does Prey's new Mooncrash DLC surpass the game it was built around? Rob thinks it just might. - Derek can't keep Pillars of Eternity II and Divinity: Original Sin II straight, but Stephen can. He explains why it's one of the best co-op RPG experiences out there. - In the shadow of so many huge games this year, a trio of Aksys visual novels released without making a blip on the radar, but Derek's here to remedy that with an introduction to Psychedelica of the Black Butterfly, 7'sCarlet, and Psychedelica of the Ashen Hawk. - The Cyberpunk 2077 demo has the podcast crew feeling a few different ways, leading to a spirited discussion of where CD Projekt RED's heavy hitter is headed thematically. Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros Special Guest(s): Rob Steinman, Stephen Meyerink Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Xenoblade Chronicles 2 just received its final piece of pre-expansion DLC, adding Elma from Xenoblade Chronicles X to the Blade roster. Derek's got the details on how it all shakes down. - The highly-anticipated Valkyria Chronicles 4 is out in less than a month, but in the meantime, we delve into its recently-released demo to see how it holds up to its predecessors. - His recent review still wet ink on a virtual page, Greg shares detailed thoughts on Little Dragons Cafe, the latest game from Harvest Moon creator Yasuhiro Wada. - Caitlin catches up on her backlog with some of 2017's biggest titles. Are they still worth playing a year later? Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros, Greg Delmage Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - It's the beefy Octopath Traveler discussion you've been waiting for! We're careful not to spoil any of the storyline, but be warned that there are some mild "gameplay spoilers" in terms of late-game features. - Chasm, one of the earliest Kickstarter success stories, is out after five-plus years of development. We delve into its depths and discover just how deep it is. - But Chasm isn't the only abyss we're plunging headfirst into; Fenner wants to make Derek relive the trauma of Operation Abyss: New Tokyo Legacy, for some reason. - Don't forget to check out new features columnist Tina Olah's first piece on RPG side quests, available under the "features" heading on our front page! Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Greg Delmage, Gino DiGioia, Nathan Lee, Robert Fenner Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Greg is back from making a movie and gallivanting in Paris (you know, just a regular couple of weeks for a star such as he) and he's here to talk up two games: hybrid dungeon crawler/item shop simulation Moonlighter and aesthetically Western but mechanically Japanese RPG Battle Chasers: Nightwar. - Meanwhile, Peter's digging into the backlog, juggling playthroughs of Shadow Hearts, Pokemon Ultra Moon, and a 100% run of Kingdom Hearts II. - The ubiquitous mobile platform continues to see a steady stream of gacha game releases. Between Star Ocean: Anamnesis, Dx2 Shin Megami Tensei Liberation, and the freshly-unveiled Idola Phantasy Star Saga, do any of them set Derek's world on fire? (Spoiler: Not a friggin' chance.) Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Greg Delmage, Peter Triezenberg Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - E3 2018 has come and gone. We wrap up our final thoughts on the show with some input from the folks who couldn't attend the show in person. - Octopath Traveler is so close! Alana dishes on the preview she wrote after spending a few hours with the game, and the rest of us generally gush. - Xenoblade Chronicles 2's most substantial piece of DLC to date, an arena mode featuring Shulk and Fiora from Xenoblade Chronicles 1, had a surprise release during E3. How is it? - Ys VIII is out for Switch, and in case our three reviews on the site aren't enough, we engage in a little more discussion of this excellent title with a messy patch history. - Caitlin gives us the lowdown on two Western titles centered around player choice: the bloody Vampyr and not-so-bloody Detroit: Become Human. - Shining Resonance Refrain is out...today, actually! Alana's preparing to write her review and shares her initial impressions. - It's a good time for retro JRPGs ending in the number two, apparently. Alana and Sollosi jump back in time and space to Star Ocean 2 and Lunar 2, respectively. - Fenner is back with the lowdown on another weirdo niche game with a super-cool premise: The Friends of Ringo Ishikawa! Featuring: Caitlin Argyros, Alana Hagues, Derek Heemsbergen, Mike Sollosi, Robert Fenner Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
RPGFan is back from E3 2018, and we've got a lot to talk about. Cyberpunk 2077, Kingdom Hearts III, Dragon Quest XI, and more! Join our talented crew as they discuss the best RPGs they saw and played at E3 this year. Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Trent Argirov, Alana Hagues, Mike Salbato, Mike Sollosi, Nathan Lee, Stephanie Sybydlo, Liz Maas Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this special episode of Random Encounter, five of RPGFan's fantastic ladies convene for a chat about all things RPG, including a deep dive into their personal histories with our genre of choice! Note: The artwork for this episode was created by our social media maven, Stephanie Sybydlo herself! If you like what you see, consider checking out her illustrations present throughout our Fabula Nova Anniversaris feature. You could even do one better and support her by ordering a print through her Redbubble shop or making a commission! Seriously, she's great. Featuring: Stephanie Sybydlo, Caitlin Argyros, Alana Hagues, Hilary Andreff, Liz Maas Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - Steph and Greg share final thoughts on The Alliance Alive and The Swords of Ditto. - The crew gets into a discussion about character customization by way of Path of Exile and the Xenoblade Chronicles trilogy; how much freedom is too much freedom for our anxious host(s)? - Derek jumps back into Falcom's back catalog with the summery Nayuta no Kiseki. - E3 2018 is coming up! Square Enix and Sony just announced their conference plans, after all. Join us as we speculate on what else might be on the docket. - Miscellaneous news bytes include upcoming Switch indies like Mineko's Night Market and Minit, Final Fantasy XIV's long-awaited Patch 4.3, and more! Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Greg Delmage, Stephanie Sybydlo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - The Dad Game strikes back: Our God of War discussion comes to a close (for now) as we touch once more upon its themes and how they resonate (or don't) with each of us. No spoilers. - Sollosi gives us the rundown on Monster Hunter World's new siege event versus Kulve Taroth. - We strive to save the world in The Swords of Ditto, but how far does cartoonish charm carry it? - Caitlin's been playing something old and something new; how does choice impact Stories: The Path of Destinies and the demo for Detroit: Become Human? - We field a brief discussion on gaming phones before sharing a few moments from RPGFan's 20 Years of Milestone RPGs feature. - Happy 18th birthday, Breath of Fire IV! Listeners, what's YOUR favorite Breath of Fire? Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi, Greg Delmage Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: - The critical consensus for God of War is glowing, but are its themes universally resonant? - Fenner takes us on a rocket ship ride to Diaries of a Spaceport Janitor. Existential dread and mop not included. - Alana attempts to verbally remove the hex placed upon her by Witch and the Hundred Knight 2. - Derek's been playing Grandia again, and it's as beautifully whimsical as ever. - We celebrate Xenogears' 20th anniversary! Cheers to its music, mechs, and more! - Listener mail: Is it worth revisiting Final Fantasy XV yet? Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Robert Fenner, Alana Hagues, Peter Triezenberg, Greg Delmage Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: -Rob may have departed the show, but his spirit (and rage) lives on. -Sollosi makes an enemy into a friend in the season finale of Batman: The Enemy Within and graces us with the term "murder pickle." Oh, what a delight. -Nathan explains why Kirito shouldn't be exercising his Second Amendment rights. -Fenner weighs in on the cutesy antics of Zwei: The Arges Adventure. -Derek explains why Atelier Lydie & Suelle: The Alchemists and the Mysterious Paintings should go back to art class, but makes a case for The Alliance Alive's atmosphere. -The crew touches on the "20 Years of Essential RPG Soundtracks" feature before talking news. Dragon Quest XI finally has a release date. Rejoice! Featuring: Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi, Nathan Lee, Robert Fenner Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: -Ni no Kuni 2 does not disappoint. -Kiryu beats up a lot of people in Yakuza 6. -The Silver Case puts out some questionable content. -And Rob retires from RPGFan. No, really. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros, Robert Fenner and Mike Salbato Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: -Monster Hunter world is dissected. -We debate the merits of remakes (namely Secret of Mana and Shadow of the Colossus). -Wait, there's another Batman Telltale game? -And everyone seems disappointed with Tokyo Xanadu. Again. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Michael Sollosi and Robert Fenner Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
2017 is now the past and it's time to start getting excited for 2018. In what's become a tradition here at Random Encounter, we take a brief break to look back at the past year in RPGs and then refocus on what's coming up next. From NieR to Xenoblade, this past year gave us a ton of games to play and not enough time to do it, and we're hoping 2018 brings even more surprises. Enjoy! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen and Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: -Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is dissected. -We give some initial thoughts on the Lost Sphear demo on the Nintendo Switch. -Derek tries to convince everyone that Romancing Saga 2 is worth it. -And the Monster Hunter World demo makes us feel... things? Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Nathan Lee Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The latest installment of the Danganronpa series has proven to be a bit controversial given its explosive ending, so we're going to try something new with Random Encounter. In order to avoid ruining V3 for our regular listeners, we've decided to devote an entire episode to dissecting this title and all that comes with it. We would recommend only listening to this episode if you've played every game in the series, as we're going to have to spoil lots of stuff for all of this to make sense. Oh, and let us know if you like this style of episode. We'd love to do more in the future if there's demand! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Michael Sollosi and Alana Hagues Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: -Everyone is excited to hear about the return of Valkyria Chronicles. -Caitlin regales us with tales from the frozen lands of Horizon Zero Dawn. -Rob confirms that Skyrim on Switch is Skyrim on Switch. -Derek and newcomer Nathan Lee give some thoughts on Pokemon Ultra Sun and Moon. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Nathan Lee Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: -Mike talks about South Park: The Fractured But Whole. -Derek tries to explain the history of .hack//G.U. -Rob constantly tries to derail the podcast since he hasn't played many RPGs lately. -The crew gives some thoughts on the violent trailers that came out of Sony's last press conference. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen and Mike Sollosi Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: -Derek discusses his complicated relationship with Chaos;Child. -Rob tries to articulate his feelings on the opening of Danganronpa V3. -Caitlin argues that we should have covered Dying Light. -Derek gushes over The Secret of Mana Collection on the Switch. -We all try to come to terms with difficulty and tedium in Divinity: Original Sin 2 and Tangledeep. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen and Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
On this episode of Random Encounter: -Alana and Derek discuss the despair of Danganronpa V3. -Caitlin tries to convince Rob that Destiny 2 is worth his time. -Everyone loves the Octopath Traveler Demo. -Something something Ys VIII is awesome something something. -And everyone should check out the Etrian Odyssey 5 demo, like, right now! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Alana Hagues Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
This is another of our more random episodes of Random Encounter, but that gives us a chance to talk about a ton of games. We've got Pyre, Ever Oasis, Tokyo Xanadu, Miitopia, Final Fantasy XII and musings about how fun it's going to be to play Dragon Quest XI next year. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen and Stephanie Sybydlo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We've obviously got to talk about Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age, so that's what you're going to hear about for the vast majority of this episode of Random Encounter. Derek, Caitlin and Steph all seem to love it, and you'd probably do well to check it out yourself. After that, Rob talks a bit about his return to XCOM 2, and then we look at Famitsu's (questionable?) list of the top RPGs of all time. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Stephanie Sybydlo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
While our friends up north are partying away, we thought it was a good idea to check in and see what everyone's been playing post E3. It's probably one of the most random episode of Random Encounter, as we talk about everything from Diablo 3's necromancer to Tokyo Xanadu. Oh, and there's a little Breath of the Wild and NieR talk, but nothing spoiler related. Enjoy and stay cool, friends! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Michael Sollosi, Steph Sybydlo and Jesse Woo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Coming to you from a hotel room cramped with too many tired people, it's the RPGFan E3 2017 podcast! Listen as we take you through our thoughts on this year's show as well as our exciting award selection. Which games blew us away? What disappointed us? Do we really need that much Skyrim? Find out now! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Michael Sollosi, Mike Salbato, Robert Fenner, Peter Triezenberg, Steph Sybydlo, Colin Burns and John Alas Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Following some Fire Emblem Echoes and Surge talk, it's off to the hallowed E3 hype discussion. What are we excited to see at this year's trade show? Can we expect any news on the Final Fantasy VII remake? What about the latest titles from From Software? Will we ever see Kingdom Hearts III? Whatever the case, join us as we mentally prepare for what lies ahead in LA. Featuring: Robert Steinman and Derek Heemsbergen Special Guest(s): Stephen Meyerink, localization specialist Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Well, this one kinda came out of nowhere! The podcast crew is absolutely gushing about Prey, but what exactly makes this game so darn exciting? After that, we've got to discuss The Caligula Effect, Trails in the Sky the 3rd, and we have some more (non-spoiler) thoughts on Persona 5. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Nick Ransbottom Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
It's finally time to talk about Persona 5. In the interest of spoilers, we've included some timestamps in case you don't want to hear about specifics. After that, we've got a little Cosmic Star Heroine and we have to start the hype train for Dragon Quest XI. Localization talk at 33:15 Questionable social link talk at 46:10 All Persona 5 talk ends at 1:06:15 Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Robert Fenner and Michael Sollosi Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
It's a little early to start talking about Persona 5, so instead we're going to focus on Mass Effect Andromeda this week. After that, we've got some (brief) impressions of the latest DLC for Dark Souls 3, a few final thoughts on The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and then we've got to go over the changes to Final Fantasy XV. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen and Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The Nintendo Switch is here, and the Random Encounter crew have some pretty positive impressions so far. After that, we move on to a long discussion about The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, a smattering of NieR: Automata, robot dinosaur hunting in Horizon Zero Dawn, and finally some initial thoughts on Torment: Tides of Numenera. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Robert Fenner Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
So, is Nintendo's mobile strategy paying off in Fire Emblem Heroes? Did Rob finally come around on Nioh? Did Michael kill all the metal slimes in Dragon Quest VIII? Can Derek hate a Digimon game even harder? And has Peter finally gotten a good Kingdom Hearts game? Find out on our latest episode of Random Encounter! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Michael Sollosi and Peter Triezenberg Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Well, we obviously have to talk about the Nintendo Switch, right? After that, we dig into Tales of Berseria, Dragon Quest VIII and Yakuza 0. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen and Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
2016 has come and gone, and it's time to take our annual look at the year in RPGs. From Dragon Quest Builders to Tokyo Mirage Sessions, we run through all of the big releases this year before taking some time to look ahead to 2017. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen and Robert Fenner Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Most of the crew had a chance to finish Final Fantasy XV, so we're going to wrap up our thoughts without going into spoiler territory (though you should skip ahead to minute 45 if you're really concerned). After that, we try to figure out what the hell is going on with Let it Die, and then we debate some quantum mechanics with Steins;Gate 0. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros, Robert Fenner and Stephanie Sybydlo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We're not screwing around this week. Join us as we talk about a game many of us have been waiting nearly a decade for. Final Fantasy XV is here! Enjoy! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Caitlin Argyros, Nick Ransbottom and Stephanie Sybydlo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Of course we have to talk about Pokemon Sun and Moon, but we've also got some final thoughts on all of those Dragon Quest games that have come out recently, some objections with Ace Attorney, and Jesse would kill me if I failed to mention some Echoes of Aetheria talk. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Mike Sollosi and Jesse Woo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We've got a treat for you today, folks! Brian Heins, game director of the upcoming Tyranny, found time in his busy schedule to join host Robert Steinman to talk about the next game from Obsidian Entertainment. Time to learn what it means to be a villain in a world where the bad guys won! Featuring: Robert Steinman Special Guest(s): Brian Heins, game director of Tyranny Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Well, we certainly have a lot of Dragon Quest to talk about. We've got Dragon Quest Builders, and a little more Dragon Quest VII, but there's also some pretty big news going on with Final Fantasy XIV. After that, we round out the show with World of Final Fantasy, Paper Mario Color Splash, Exist Archive and the Danganronpa anime. Enjoy! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and John Tucker Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
It's been a while, so hopefully we haven't forgotten how to podcast! We've got Deus Ex: Mankind Divided to augment, Shin Megami Tensei IV Apocalypse to negotiate, and Dragon Quest VII to, uh, quest with? We're going to start tackling those emails y'all keep sending us. And to wrap things up, we've got an interview with Chris Holzworth, Lead Editor on the SMT4A localization team and RPGFan staffer from way back! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi and Nick Ransbottom Special Guest(s): Christopher Holzworth from Atlus Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Yep, we have to talk about the Final Fantasy XV delay. After that, we wander a bit with Shiren, Derek and Caitlin go nuts for Trails of Cold Steel 2, we do our best Batman impressions, and Peter gives some final thoughts I am Setsuna. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Peter Triezenberg Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
It's way too hot outside, so grab your favorite frosty beverage and join the crew of Random Encounter as we try to survive the insane summer heat. We've got (more!) Final Fantasy XIV, Shiren the Wanderer, 1979 Revolution: Black Friday, some disclosure agreement talk and a little NX speculation. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros, Jesse Woo, and Stephanie Sybydlo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Yay, we get to finally talk about Zero Time Dilemma! But don't worry, faithful listeners, as we won't be spoiling any of the mystery for you. We've also got The Witcher 3: Blood and Wine, Tokyo Mirage Sessions, 7th Dragon and Pokemon Go to go (HA!) over, so grab a cool beverage and enjoy. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Mike Sollosi Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
With E3 2016 in the rear-view mirror, it's time to take a breath, drink some scotch (the preferred drink of RPGFan), and try to assess everything that happened. From Zelda to God of War to Persona 5, we've got you covered when it comes to gaming at this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo. Scorpio! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi, and Stephanie Sybydlo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Let's talk about our backlog a bit before the inevitable E3 hype. We've got Valkyria Chronicles HD, Romancing Saga 2, Wild Arms 3, and some Shin Megami Tensei to gush over before we try to contain our excitement for E3 2016. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Jesse Woo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We should probably focus on all of the crazy news over the past few weeks, huh? After a brief talk about the ending to Danganronpa 2 (don't worry, no spoilers), we do our best to take apart the amazing Persona 5 trailer and try to figure out just what Nintendo's up to. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen and Robert Fenner Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Another week of way too many games to talk about, friends. We've got Bravely Second, Nioh, Severed and The Banner Saga 2, along with a number of quick thoughts on titles in our individual backlogs. But the real story here is at the end where we say goodbye to a longtime podcast member and friend. You don't want to miss it! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen, Mike Sollosi and Jesse Woo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Quick, get in the car! No time to explain! We have to breakdown the most recent Final Fantasy XV announcements, talk about why we're not covering Hyper Light Drifter, complain about coop problems in Moon Hunters, and give some final thoughts on Dark Souls III. Grab your leather jacket and let's roll! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and John Tucker Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Time to sharpen your swords and drink some caffeine to help your reflexes, friends. We've got Salt and Sanctuary and Dark Souls III to test your might, some Steins;Gate to properly investigate, Norn9 to pursue, and Zero Time Dilemma news to gush over. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Robert Fenner Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Spring is just around the corner, and we're starting to get excited for all the potential news and rumors that start this time of year right before E3. We've got a Nintendo Direct to dissect, some Fire Emblem to gush over, PoPoLoCrois to discover, and The Division to... devise? I've got nothing, folks! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Michael Sollosi Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
No time to dawdle, there's games to talk about! We've got Firewatch, XCOM 2, Project Setsuna, and Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth. Oh, and we really need to talk about the Fallout 4 DLC plans and lament the closing of GameTrailers. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Caitlin Argyros and John Tucker Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The New Year is upon us, and the Random Encounter crew has lots to say about the latest releases. Everyone seems super pleased with Trails of Cold Steel, Rob (despite some rage here and there) appears to really like Darkest Dungeon, Derek loves on some Mario and Luigi: Paper Jam, Caitlin got a chance to play The Division, and, of course, we have to talk about all of the latest Fire Emblem Fates news that's been lighting up the interwebs. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Robert Fenner Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
With 2015 firmly in the rearview mirror, it's time to think about everything we've seen over the past twelve months. Of course, this also gives us a chance to talk about what all we're looking forward to in 2016. Just how many Final Fantasies will we see? Is Zero Time Dilemma our most anticipated game? Wait, of course it is! Strap in and join the crew as we celebrate the New Year in style. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink and Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We're back with our last regular episode of 2015, and of course we're going to talk about Xenoblade Chronicles X and The Old Hunters expansion for Bloodborne. Oh, and there's that whole Final Fantasy VII Remake thing that we kinda have to analyze too, huh? Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen and Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Well, we definitely need to talk about Fallout 4, so take a break from playing to find out what the crew of Random Encounter thinks of Bethesda's latest. After that, Rob chats about his time with Danganronpa (and Derek yells at him for not trying it sooner), Caitlin talks about the latest changes to Final Fantasy XIV, and Stephen debates some Apollo Justice. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen and Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Well, we finally made it to 100 episodes. Take a second to breathe that in, folks. What better way to celebrate than to keep doing the same damn thing we've always done! Rob tries his best to keep calm while playing Wasteland 2 and Divinity: Original Sin Enhanced Edition, Derek talks about his Tales of Zestiria experience and teenage angst in Life is Strange, Stephen gushes over the Ace Attorney trilogy, and Peter describes his thirst for (slime) blood in Dragon Quest Heroes. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen and Peter Triezenberg Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Kept you waiting, huh? We certainly have a lot to talk about this week, starting with catching up on the games everyone's been playing. Rob got a chance to beat Witcher 3, Caitlin gushes over Until Dawn, Mike plugs another podcast with The Last Story, and Derek enjoyed some Danganronpa Another Episode: Ultra Despair Girls. After all that, we dig into the Tokyo Game Show and try to contain our excitement. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros and Mike Sollosi Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Well, this might be one of the craziest episodes we've ever had. Not only is it a massive crew of podcasters this week, but we've also got an insane number of topics. Of course we have to talk about the latest Dragon Quest news and then we've also got updates on Divinity II, the latest Kickstarter controversies, the legalities of a Final Fantasy beat 'em up, and Stephen gets to gush about King's Quest so you'll all buy it! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi and Jesse Woo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The summer calm gives our crew a chance to catch their breath and look at their backlog. Rob talks about the latest updates to The Witcher 3 and Diablo 3, Caitlin nearly persuades everyone to replay Final Fantasy Tactics, and Derek talks about betrayal and death in Lost Dimension. There's also a bit of Dragon Quest speculation during our news roundup, but that was before all of today's insanity. You better believe we will cover all of that on the next show! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen and Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
E3 is firmly in the rearview mirror, so now we can finally get back to business. Derek and Stephen gush about Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward, Rob tries to convey the utter weirdness of Lisa: The Painful RPG, and then everyone loses their minds over the news we're getting another Zero Escape game (while Jesse makes the mistake of asking if he should give it a try). Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen and Jesse Woo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Sorry to keep you waiting! E3 is behind us, and now the crew gets together to talk about all of the craziness of this year's show. From the Final Fantasy VII remake to Fallout 4, we give you our thoughts on all of the RPGs at the show and what to expect in the years to come. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Derek Heemsbergen, Jeremy Harnage and Jesse Woo Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Geralt rides into the podcast, and everyone has a ton to say about The Witcher 3. Following that, the gang engages in some discussion about sexuality, gender, race and whole bunch of hot button issues in gaming. There's a bit of Devil Survivor 2 Record Breaker talk before we give some E3 predictions and desires (hint, Stephen wants Kingdom Hearts 3 info before he explodes). Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen and Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The gang gives some final Bloodborne impressions (we promise!), Michael talks some Oreshika, Stephen does his best to convince Rob to buy Pillars of Eternity, and then everyone weighs in on the insanity in the industry over the past two weeks. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink and Michael Sollosi Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Yeah, we're going to talk a lot about Bloodborne. You knew this was coming, so sit back and enjoy. Oh, and we also have some Final Fantasy Type-0 HD to talk about, too. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen, Michael Sollosi and Peter Triezenberg Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Man, March is going to be crazy! The whole crew is filled with anticipation (hence the title), and it's proving rather difficult to keep their hype in check. Still, we have some cool stuff to talk about this week, including Rob's new Playstation 4, some off-topic debates, and Derek's journey into Atelier Shallie. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, and Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Jeez, there are almost too many games to talk about this week. We've got Citizens of Earth, Criminal Girls, Darkest Dungeon, Ghost Song, Code Name: S.T.E.A.M., and a little Brandish to keep you warm during this incredibly cold winter. Oh, and there was some kind of new trailer for a game that has everyone hyped. I think it was called Persona 5 or something. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen, John Tucker, and Jeremy Harnage Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
2015 is upon us, and we're certainly excited about all of the amazing looking RPGs to come. Before we board the hype train, however, we talk about some gaming trends and whether or not we actually have time to play all of these massive games. Stay tuned after the main show for our interview with Michelle and James over Ska Studios, who are currently working on Salt and Sanctuary. It looks like a 2D Dark Souls, so you know Rob and Stephen are excited! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Caitlin Argyros Special Guest(s): Michelle and James Silva from Ska Studios Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Rob talks about the hardships of dragon hunting, Derek describes the keys to the sphere grid in Final Fantasy X International, and Stephen expands on the virtues of Dungeonmans. Oh, and there's a ton of news to talk about, including possibly the biggest troll EVER! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The gang gets right to business with Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth, Stephen goes gaga over Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX, and Derek shares his thoughts on Tales of Hearts R. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We've got a big one for y'all this week. The gang talks about Lords of the Fallen, Valkyria Chronicles, Dragon Age: Inquisition, Freedom Wars and Fantasy Life. Be sure to stay tuned after the regular show for our exclusive interview with Cameron Lee, producer of Dragon Age: Inquisition. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen, Caitlin Argyros Special Guest(s): Cameron Lee - Producer of Dragon Age: Inquisition Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Kyle vanishes while playing The Vanishing of Ethan Carter, Stephen defends mobile games with Terra Battle, strategy is discussed in Legend of Grimrock 2, and the gang all plead for a re-release of Suikoden II. ARE YOU LISTENING, KONAMI?!!! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Kyle E. Miller Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Derek talks about Persona 4: Arena Ultimax and Curtain Call (I'm not writing Theatrhythm... dammit!), Stephen takes us through Natural Doctrine while Rob guides us around Wasteland 2, and then the guys get excited for Final Fantasy XV. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Rob discusses the finer points of adventure games with The Walking Dead and Shadowgate, Derek steals clothes in Akiba's Trip, and Stephen talks about Sword Art Online and a lot of other games. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Dave tries to convey the awesomeness of Divinity: Original Sin, Stephen boards the hype train for Destiny, Rob hates Dark Souls II (wait, what?), and listener questions are answered. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Dave Yeager Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The guys talk about the glory of the Steam Summer Sale, Derek discusses the merits of Atelier Rorona Plus, and Stephen tries his best to explain just what the hell Destiny is. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
For the first time ever, Random Encounter comes to you live from E3! Join the editors of RPGFan as they fight off sleep deprivation to talk about the glitz, glamour and majesty of the world's largest gaming trade show! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen, Kyle E. Miller, Liz Maas, Andrew Barker, Mike Salbato Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The gang talks some Transistor, Derek tries to convey the weirdness of Drakengard 3, Wastleand 2 gets some love, and everyone gets excited for E3 2014. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Stephen plays some Persona 3 and Dark Souls II, Derek enjoys a little Child of Light, and Rob gets giddy over potential E3 announcements. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Derek's been making babies and playing some old Final Fantasy games, while Stephen and Rob have been (what else?) playing Diablo. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Stephen recounts his time in South Park, Derek explains how to pronounce Atelier, and Rob spends far too much time talking about Dark Souls II. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Kyle talks about the time he killed a man for a job in Bravely Default, Derek saves the world while trying to make sense of the story in Lightning Returns, and Stephen and Rob spend some time testing out the new patch in a game y'all are probably tired of them talking about by now. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen, Kyle E. Miller Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Rob learns how to pronounce Ys, Stephen plays a game that might have to change its title for some asinine reason, and Derek gets all nostalgic and whistles a lot. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The new year is upon us, so join the crew of Random Encounter as we dive into some of our expectations and predictions for the new year. Will Dragon Age III disappoint? What about Final Fantasy XV? Can we hope to (finally) see a Fallout 4 announcement? Only time will tell... Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Kept you waiting, huh? We're had a heck of a time trying to get another recording together, but we've got an awesome show for y'all to make up for it. We've got lots of games to talk about, including The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds, Rogue Legacy, Ys: Memories of Celceta, and Baldur's Gate II. Following a rousing news section with Derek, Rob and Stephen sit down with some of the developers working on the upcoming indie title Darkest Dungeon. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen, John Tucker Special Guest(s): Chris Bourassa and Tyler Sigman from Red Hook Studios Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
This might be our most tangent-filled episode ever. Talking about The Wolf Among Us leads to a discussion on narrative and player choice, and then Derek tells us all about Pokemon eugenics. There's also some (more) Deus Ex to talk about and a brief news section as we patiently await the new consoles. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Rob got to play Dark Souls II. We don't have to say much else, do we? Oh, uh, Derek got to play some Zelda and Stephen played more Type-0, but we know why you're here. Praise the Sun! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
A brief discussion on Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMIX leads to some talk of how gaming has changed over the years. Derek follows that up with some (more!) Etrian Odyssey and news to round out the show. Featuring: Rob Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The summer draws to a close, but there's more than enough awesome gaming to go around. Derek and Stephen continue their journey through the lands of Eorzea, Rob gets in touch with his inner tactician, and OH MY GOD, BETA ANNOUNCEMENT FOR DARK SOULS II!!! Featuring: Rob Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
No rest for the wicked this summer. We've got lots of new releases to talk about, including Shin Megami Tensei IV, Dragon's Crown, and Tales of Xillia. Rob and Stephen are lost (again) in Skyrim, and Derek has lots of news to talk about. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Beat the summer heat and join the cast for a quality discussion on character classes. How do we decide which class to play in a video game? Why does Stephen always have to choose a magic user? Will John ever get tired of hitting things really hard as a dwarf? Stay tuned after the news for an interview with Jordan Weisman from Harebrained Schemes, makers of the upcoming Shadowrun Returns. Enjoy! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Special Guest: Jordan Weisman from Harebrained Schemes Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Join the cast of Random Encounter for some summer gaming fun! We've got some very positive impressions of Final Fantasy XIV, more love to hand out to Virtue's Last Reward, a little Project X Zone and Muramasa to discuss, and Derek tackles the news (including the now infamous XBox 180). Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
E3 2013 was surely one of the best years in recent memory for our beloved genre(s), and we have an absolute avalanche of things to discuss in our latest and greatest wrap-up show ever. The announcement of Kingdom Hearts III headlines, with some other games, I guess, too. Did our heroes survive the Ifrit challenge? Did Stephen's head explode when they announced KHIII? Tune in and find out! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
It's the most wonderful time of the year! We've got our special Pre-E3 show and lots to talk about. What are we most excited about? What's going to happen with the new consoles? Do we have any crazy predictions that we'll laugh about later? Tune in and find out! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We decided to take a break from the usual new release talk and focus on something everybody loves in RPGs: character progression! Of course, we have to talk about the XBox One reveal (now forever known as the X-Bone). Finally, we have an interview with some of the wonderful folks at Aksys who localize some of your favorite games! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Special Guests: Karen McOscar, Ben Bateman, Editors for Aksys Games Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Let the hate flow through you. Rob's got LOTS to say about Dragon's Dogma, but we accentuate the positive first when John talks about Dead Island Riptide. After Rob's meds kick in, Derek discusses Pandora's Tower and then we finish things off with a bit of news. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We're fighting through the allergy season to get you the latest information on RPGs. We've got Soul Hackers, Soul Sacrifice and Dark Souls II to talk about (probably should have renamed the podcast, now that we think about it), and then some news which includes a huge amount of Nintendo Direct announcements and a bit of speculation on next-gen consoles. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Spoiler Warning! And now for something completely different. The podcast crew decided it was time to take a long hard look at narrative in RPGs and video games as a whole. We pretty much get lost talking about the importance of player choice, strong character interactions, and the interactive nature of the art form. There are some spoilers here and there, but we do our best to bring up the game beforehand so you can skip ahead as needed. Derek brings it home with news, including some pretty disappointing financials from Square-Enix. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen, Kyle E. Miller, Dave Yeager Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We've got a weird one for y'all this week. With John catching a case of the Solid Snake Gravely Voice, the podcast ends of hijacked with tons of side topics and seemingly random discussions. Thankfully, there's some new releases to talk about with Etrian Odyssey IV and Atelier Ayesha. We've also got a little preview of another potential retro episode, so be sure to let us know what you think! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Y'all wanted more retro episodes, so we put together a brief discussion of System Shock 2 and its impact on the gaming world since its release nearly fourteen years ago. After that, you know we just have to talk about the big Playstation 4 announcement last week, and we've certainly got some rather divisive opinions among the group. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John, McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen, Kyle E. Miller Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We're down one party member this week, but fear not, listeners! We've got some final thoughts on Ni no Kuni, some serious love for Fire Emblem: Awakening, and some brief thoughts on the re-release of System Shock 2 on Good Old Games. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Ni no Kuni is finally out in America, and the podcast crew takes an in-depth look at Level 5's latest epic. Following a spirited debate and brief analysis of video game commercials for some reason, Stephen and Rob throw down on Path of Exile. Oh, and there's an epic amount of news to talk about, so somebody give John a nice pat on the back for organizing all of this madness! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John, McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Our first ever Music of the Year show, featuring some of our favorite tracks from the year. Stay tuned after the show for our interview with Casey Ormond, arranger of the Piano Collections Final Fantasy XII album! And if you like the show, be sure to let us know! Featuring: Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen, Patrick Gann, Don Kotowski Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
2012 has finally come to a close, and thankfully the Mayans weren't right and the world keeps turning. But before we start talking about 2013, join us for a look back at some of the major releases of last year with a bit more time and perspective on our side. Of course we've got some crazy predictions for 2013, so be sure to listen and tell us in a year just how wrong we were! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen, Kyle E. Miller Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
It's the last episode of the year, and we decided to go out with a bang by inviting long time editor John Tucker to the podcast. He's got some Paper Mario to talk about, and then John, Derek and Stephen completely steal the show to gush about Crimson Shroud. There's quite a bit of news to finish out the year, however, including a story that Rob and Stephen have been DYING to talk about... Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, John Tucker, and Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Time to upgrade your social link! We've got lots to say about Persona 4: Golden on the Vita followed by a brief talk with Kyle about his trip to Baltimore and the world of Tamriel in The Elder Scrolls Online. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Kyle Miller Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The release of Virtue's Last Reward gives the podcast crew another chance to gush over visual novels (999 included, of course), while Pandas invade World of Warcraft to... do whatever it is pandas do. Following some news, Stephen picks the brains of Phoenix Online Studios Cesar Bittar and Richard Flores to talk about Cognition. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Derek Heemsbergen Special Guests: Cesar Bittar, CEO of Phoenix Online Studios, Richard Flores, CTO of Phoenix Online Studios Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Let the looting begin! Borderlands 2 is out, and our podcast crew has opinions. But that's not all this week. We've also got Realms of Ancient Wars and Ragnarok Online to round out the first of the big Fall releases. John also has some news coming out of Bioware that is both sad and exciting at the same time! Whatever could it be?! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Well, we actually made it to fifty episode. Bet no one saw that coming. But we have no room for a clip show with The Last Story, Darksiders 2, Guild Wars 2, and all sorts of news going on these days. We also have some fellow editors putting in brief appearances to talk about their favorite RPG memories (spoiler: lots of people like Chrono Trigger), and we hope to maybe continue with this in the future. Here's looking forward to fifty more episodes! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Derek Heemsbergen Special Guests: Liz Maas, Kyle Miller Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We decided to get one more leisurely episode in before the craziness of the fourth quarter starts to take over. Dave leads off with some final thoughts on The Secret World, Rob fends off the zombie apocalypse (TM) while talking about the first two episodes of The Walking Dead, and John throws down with Persona 4: Arena. Dave also pulls double duty as our podcast economist and tries to make sense of all the stuff going on with The Old Republic and Zynga. Finally, we've got an interview with game designer Mike Zadorojny from ArenaNet about the final development stages and future of Guild Wars 2. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Dave Yeager and Stephen Meyerink Special Guest: Mike Zadorojny, Game Designer at ArenaNet Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The podcast crew continues to fight back the record setting drought with a focus on great gaming experience. Rob and John spent some time in The Secret World, and John also pulled double duty by partaking in some Rainbow Moon with resident gaming lover Stephen. Meanwhile, some relatively minor news accompanies a major rumor on a supposedly troubled project. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll and Stephen Meyerink Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The summer heat has kicked in, but that just means more time to stay in the air conditioning and play some great RPGs. Stephen comes armed after a harrowing experience with the Japanese beta of Phantasy Star Online 2 (keep in mind we didn't know about the US release when we recorded), while John brings the critters of Pokemon Conquest to destroy the armies of feudal Japan. Meanwhile, Rob's been playing some Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne (way to stay current), and, of course, Zack brings the news, including the release announcement of Guild Wars 2. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, John McCarroll, and Zachary Pintchik Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Another year, another E3 come and gone in the gaming world. While it may not have seemed like there were a lot of RPGs on display, our intrepid reporters scoured the show floor to bring you all of the latest info. From the first Skyrim expansion to a game in which a young child tries to kill people (seriously!), this year's expo had a wide range of titles to choose from. Join the regular crew and various special guests as we do our best to talk about all of the E3 insanity! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Neal Chandran, Kyle E. Miller, John McCarroll and Dave Yeager Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Looks like Hell has finally frozen over. Blizzard unleashed Diablo 3 a little over two weeks ago, and the podcast crew has been tearing through the armies of the Burning Hells with reckless abandon. What do they think about all of the connection issues? What about the auction house? Is the game even good? After that, the crew wades into a title that Rob can't pronounce or spell with Gungnir, and there's certainly some sad news to talk about following the closing of 38 Studios and Big Huge Games. Stay tuned after the regular show for an interview with Atlus' QA Lead Richard Rodrigues and PR Manager Aram Jabbari as they talk more about Gungnir with Editor-in-Chief John McCarroll. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Zachary Pintchik Special Guests: Richard Rodrigues and Aram Jabbari Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Join RPGFan Editor-in-Chief John McCarroll as he talks Gungnir with Richard Rodrigues and Aram Jabbari of Atlus. Note: This is the same interview available at the end of Random Encounter Episode 45. We've added a separate download option for your listening convenience. Featuring: John McCarroll, Richard Rodrigues (QA Lead, Atlus), Aram Jabbari (PR Manager, Atlus) Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
As part of the ArenaNet studio visit that took place one month ago, Rob was able to participate in two roundtable interviews on the upcoming Guild Wars 2. Unfortunately, we were unable to get you the interviews due to technical difficulties... until now! The first interview is with Lead Content Designer Colin Johanson and Lead Game Designer Eric Flannum, and is followed by an interview with ArenaNet President Mike O'Brien and Producer Chris Whiteside. There's a lot of interesting discussion in here, so grab a seat and listen up! Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Ya know what's a good idea? Let's send the biggest MMO-hater on the site out to Seattle to check out Guild Wars 2. It may sound like a recipe for disaster, but Rob came back with a huge smile on his face and a desire to play more of the innovative title due out later this year. In addition, John found a surprising amount of quality listener mail, giving us the oppourtunity to hold our very first Q and A session! How freakin' sweet is that?! Zack brings it all home with his usual news roundup, including a special piece that's sure to make both Rob and Stephen very happy... Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen and Ashton Liu Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
It's spring time and allergy season has hit the podcast crew like a ton of bricks, but that won't stop us from talking about some great JRPG releases! We finally have Xenoblade in America as well as Tales of Graces f to satiate us during these sneeze filled months. There's also a lot of Kickstarter stuff to talk about in news, leading to the revival of some well loved franchises (yay for Shadowrun!). Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen and Ashton Liu Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The release of Mass Effect 3 sure has sent some shockwaves through the industry, and the podcast gang is no exception. Join the crew of Random Encounter as they talk about the crew of the Normandy and the finale to BioWare's epic. We delve into spoilers from about the 37 minute mark until 1 hour 20 minutes in, so avoid that if you're worried about spoilers. But do come back! After John's journey through news, Atlus representatives Aram Jabbari and Scott Williams join us to talk about the soon to be released Game of Thrones RPG based on the works of George RR Martin. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Liz Maas and Ashton Liu Special Guests: Aram Jabbari and Scott Williams of Atlus Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
You can't say we don't listen to the fans. Wait, that double negative has me all confused now. Anywho, the podcast crew wades into the JRPG space this week with a look at Hyperdimension Neptunia MK2 and (one of Stephen's favorite games) Tales of the Abyss. The conversation ends up completely off track when Rob and John focus on what draws them into a video game. Zack returns from his college adventures to talk news, and the whole crew agrees that we should have probably trademarked the name Random Encounter. Oh well! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Zachary Pintchik Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Remember when the first quarter was a slow time of the year? Yeah, fat chance of us getting a break around here with these major releases! Final Fantasy 13-2 is here and ready to usher in the New Year with moogles, time travel, and the cast of Kingdom Hearts. Wait, what? We brought Derek back on the show because, well, he found every freakin' doodad in the game! That's dedication, folks! After that, we head straight into the fantasy realm of Amalur, as Stephen spent the better part of the week splitting the heads of various fae folk and raining death on the countryside. John brings it all together with news while Rob cries in the corner over the latest information on the release of Diablo 3. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Square-Enix graced the US with the demo for Final Fantasy XIII-2, and it's up to the podcast crew to tear into this mammoth JRPG. Did the developers listen to the complaints from the original game? Will this sequel bring new and old fans to the fold? We may not have concrete answers, but we certainly have some initial thoughts. You also get to hear the beginnings of a retrospective look at the franchise that will (hopefully) take on a larger form down the line. John battles with the recent news as we also get a demo for Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, The Old Republic receives a content update, and the death (rebirth?) of the infamous Fallout MMO sends ripples through the industry. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Kimberley Wallace Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We certainly promised you guys a big end of the year episode, and by God did we ever deliver. The crew starts by sitting down for an in-depth discussion of 2011. From Dragon Age 2 to Skyrim, the podcast gang analyzes the major releases and trends in the genre (and industry) we all love. In the second segment, Rob, John, Kyle and Dave talk about Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, one of the first big RPGs of 2012. Finally, the podcasters take a look into the RPGFan Crystal Ball (TM) and come up with some predictions for the new year. Will we finally get Persona 5? What about Mass Effect 3? Is Diablo 3 destined to be the best game of 2014?! Only time will tell.... Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Zachary Pintchik, Dave Yeager and Kyle Miller Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We certainly promised you guys a big end of the year episode, and by God did we ever deliver. The crew starts by sitting down for an in-depth discussion of 2011. From Dragon Age 2 to Skyrim, the podcast gang analyzes the major releases and trends in the genre (and industry) we all love. In the second segment, Rob, John, Kyle and Dave talk about Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, one of the first big RPGs of 2012. Finally, the podcasters take a look into the RPGFan Crystal Ball (TM) and come up with some predictions for the new year. Will we finally get Persona 5? What about Mass Effect 3? Is Diablo 3 destined to be the best game of 2014?! Only time will tell.... Note: Due to the length of our End of the Year Spectacular, we've decided to offer it in two versions. This is Part 1 of 2, covering the games of 2011 and a preview of Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. For our look ahead at 2012 make sure to download Part 2 of the show, or if you'd prefer to listen to all three segments in one episode, download the full version! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Zachary Pintchik, Dave Yeager and Kyle Miller Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
We certainly promised you guys a big end of the year episode, and by God did we ever deliver. The crew starts by sitting down for an in-depth discussion of 2011. From Dragon Age 2 to Skyrim, the podcast gang analyzes the major releases and trends in the genre (and industry) we all love. In the second segment, Rob, John, Kyle and Dave talk about Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, one of the first big RPGs of 2012. Finally, the podcasters take a look into the RPGFan Crystal Ball (TM) and come up with some predictions for the new year. Will we finally get Persona 5? What about Mass Effect 3? Is Diablo 3 destined to be the best game of 2014?! Only time will tell.... Note: Due to the length of our End of the Year Spectacular, we've decided to offer it in two versions. This is Part 1 of 2, covering the games of 2011 and a preview of Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. For our look ahead at 2012 make sure to download Part 2 of the show, or if you'd prefer to listen to all three segments in one episode, download the full version! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Zachary Pintchik, Dave Yeager and Kyle Miller Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Our trip through the frozen lands of Skyrim comes to a close with a few final thoughts on Bethesda's epic. But the latest Elder Scrolls title wasn't the only big game to come out in November. Nintendo decided to throw the Wii a going away party in the best possible way with The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword. However, that's not all, weary traveler. Rob and Stephen were recently blessed with the Diablo 3 beta, and they certainly have lots to say about the Lord of Terror's return to the land of Sanctuary. Zack brings the podcast home with a great deal of news, including something that should make Operation: Rainfall members very happy. Finally, in another developer interview, Chris Wilson of Grinding Gear Games joins Rob and podcast newbie Bob Richardson to talk about Path of Exile. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Zachary Pintchik and Derek Heemsbergen Special Guests: Bob Richardson (Reviews Editor, RPGFan) and Chris Wilson (Producer and Lead Designer, Grinding Gear Games) Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Guys! Guys! Skyrim is here! The Bethesda epic we've all been waiting for has finally arrived and the editors of RPGFan are here to share their opinions on the game. Tales of werewolves, assassinations and lots of dragons abound in this weeks episode of Random Encounter! Stay tuned after the show for an interview with Cesar Bittar and Katie Hallahan of Phoenix Online Studios on their upcoming game Cognition. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Kyle Miller Special Guests: Cesar Bittar and Katie Hallahan, Phoenix Online Studios Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
With the horror that is Dark Souls behind them, the editors of RPGFan enjoy a return to some sort of normalcy as John talks The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, Kim and Derek riff on Rune Factory: Tides of Destiny, as Rob sinks his teeth into... more Dark Souls, and Stephen wraps us up with this week's RPG news. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Kimberley Wallace and Derek Heemsbergen Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Asking how many deaths it takes to beat Dark Souls is like asking how many licks it takes to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop. But with the last bonfires well behind them, the editors of RPGFan regain their humanity (and their sanity) and discuss this behemoth of an action/horror RPG. Join us in jolly co-operation as we go over the ins and outs of what makes FROM Software's latest foray into pain simulators oh-so-satisfying. Is the masochism of Dark Souls too much for you? MMOs more your speed? Then stay tuned after the news as John, Rob and podcast newbie Dave Yeager get their force with impressions of The Old Republic Press Beta. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Zachary Pintchik and Dave Yeager Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Need a break from the constant terror that is Dark Souls? Then have a seat at our bonfire as John recounts his time with Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, Kim discusses the recently released Persona 2: Innocent Sin, and the rest of the crew whets their appetites for more Dark Souls. Stay tuned after the show for an interview on Rune Factory: Tides of Destiny with Adam Fitch, Localization Editor at Natsume! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Kimberley Wallace and Zachary Pintchik Special Guest: Adam Fitch, Natsume Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Seems like everyone is talking about the JRPG Xenoblade and wondering whether or not we'll see it on domestic shores. Well, the crew of Random Encounter decided to focus on this heavily anticipated title, and reached the consensus that, yeah, it is a pretty big deal. Following an in depth analysis of the title, Derek brings the podcast home with the week's crazy news, including an Old Republic release date, the rabid anticipation of Dark Souls, a Final Fantasy remake, and the delay(?) of Diablo 3. Warning: This podcast may contain sheep. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Derek Heemsbergen and Greig McCallum Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Funny noises abound in this weeks episode of Random Encounter! Rob, John and Stephen join up to discuss the zombie filled Dead Island, demon infested SMT: Devil Survivor Overclocked, complexity and replayability in games, as well as the latest news in the world of RPGs. Stay tuned after the show for an interview with Darren Korb, composer of the Bastion soundtrack! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, and Stephen Meyerink Special Guest: Darren Korb, Supergiant Games Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
The editors of RPGFan.com assemble once again to discuss the latest and greatest in the world of RPGs. Why does Zack think Deus Ex: Human Revolution is the next Metal Gear Solid game? What's keeping Rob from enjoying indie darling Bastion? Also, listen after the show for a special interview with Tobyn Manthorpe, one of the developers of Emissary of War! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Zachary Pintchik and Kyle E. Miller Special Guest: Tobyn Manthorpe
Stephen is back from Montreal where he had the chance to play the highly anticipated Deus Ex: Human Revolution, and has decided to grace our lesser, non-augmented selves with details of the trip. Does the cyber renaissance FPS/RPG deliver the goods? Can Stephen do an awesome Adam Jensen impression? Listen up and find out on this weeks edition of Random Encounter! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Liz Maas
On this nostalgia-laden edition of Random Encounter the editors of RPGFan sit down to discuss a game that made them the RPG fans they are today: Phantasy Star IV. Listen as Rob, John, Stephen and Derek explain why exactly Phantasy Star IV ranks as one of the best JRPGs of all time. NOTE: This episode contains heavy spoilers for the Phantasy Star series. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Derek Heemsbergen
With our party down to three brave warriors once more, can the editors of RPGFan brave this dungeon-filled episode? Rob, John and Stephen gather round the podcast fire to discuss Dungeon Siege III, Dungeons and Dragons: Daggerdale and more on this week's episode of Random Encounter! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll and Stephen Meyerink
They came. They saw. They conquered. And now the editors of RPGFan are here to tell you about the most exciting RPGs at E3 2011! Final Fantasy XIII-2, Deus Ex: Human Revolution, Rune Factory: Tides of Destiny, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and more. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Kimberley Wallace, Liz Maas and Derek Heemsbergen
Kyle and Stephen join Rob for an in-depth look at The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings on this weeks episode of Random Encounter. Has one of this year's biggest RPGs lived up to the hype? (Spoilers: Yes!) NOTE: This podcast may contain some mild spoilers for The Witcher 2. If you have not played the game or aren't very far in, listen at your own risk! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink and Kyle E. Miller
Join the editors of RPGFan for a special roundtable on female characters in video games on this week's episode of Random Encounter. Our editors share some of their favorite female characters, what sets those characters above the rest, and what they hope to see from developers in the future. Be sure to check out our "Best (and Worst) Female RPG Characters" feature and share your opinions on the message boards. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Kimberley Wallace, Liz Maas and Stephen Meyerink
This week's episode of Random Encounter is filled with talk about... RPGs?! What will they think of next? Kim starts of the show with a timely discussion Mass Effect, John brings the mumorpuger love with RIFT, and Rob finishes The Witcher just in time for Kyle's preview of The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings. Is one of this year's sexiest, swankiest RPGs enough to appease our resident hater? Find out all this and more on Random Encounter Episode 23. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Kimberley Wallace and Kyle Miller
An amazing episode of Random Encounter has been lost to the ether that is the internet thanks to technical difficulties, solar flares, or perhaps intervention by the Heartless. Rather than attempt to recreate the magic, the crew decides to focus on topics associated with the games they've been playing. John complains that RPGs are too long and Kim talks about the resurrection and continuation of fan-favorite franchises. After arguing Hardball style for a while, John takes the crew for a ride into the news room. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Kimberley Wallace
Time for an extra-long edition of RPGFan's Random Encounter! The usual party of RPGFan editors is joined by Kyle E. Miller for a discussion of the recently released Dragon Age 2 before moving on to talk about Heavy Rain (and its sequel?!), Dissidia [duodecim] 012 and Pokemon Black and White. Zack brings us impressions of action RPGs Bastion and Dungeon Siege 3 before wrapping up with the week's news. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink, Zachary Pintchik and Kyle E. Miller
It's an episode of classic games and big releases on this weeks Random Encounter! Stephen talks about The Silver Lining and the recent King's Quest III Remake before John assesses a bevy of recent PSOne Classic titles, all leading up to a discussion of some of the biggest games in Q1 2011 (Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together, Radiant Historia, Dragon Age II). Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll and Stephen Meyerink
Join our intrepid adventurers in this weeks Dragon Age II Edition of Random Encounter! Rob, Stephen and Zack sit down to discuss the recently released Dragon Age II demo. What do we think of the new graphical style? How does the faster combat feel? Does Zack's cultural ineptitude know no bounds? All this and more on the Random Encounter! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink and Zachary Pintchik
Rob, Stephen, John and Zack sit down for another exciting Random Encounter! This week our adventurers discuss Stacking and Dragon Age: Origins before Zack and Stephen start talking about Deus Ex... yes, that Deus Ex. Rob talks about Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney and Demon's Souls before we get into the veritable plethora of news from the past month. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, John McCarroll and Zachary Pintchik
We're back with the regular party and ready for another Random Encounter! Rob, John, Stephen and Zack sit down and discuss Lord of Arcana, Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective, Dragon Age: Origins, The World Ends With You, Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep Final Mix, and more, as well as the latest news from Square Enix's First Production Department Premier event. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, John McCarroll and Zachary Pintchik
A quintet of RPGFan editors present... a soundtrack spectactular! With John and Zack away for the week, Pat, Dennis and Derek join Rob and Stephen for a lengthy discussion on their favorite RPG sountracks. Sure, they talk about games as well (and boy do they talk about a lot of them), but haven't you always wanted to learn about obscure soundtrack terminology? Games Discussed: Back to the Future: The Game, Winter Voices, Rune Factory 3, Cthulu Saves the World, Final Fantasy XI, Prinny 2: Dawn of Operation Panties, Dood!, Persona 3 Portable, Dissidia: Final Fantasy, 9 Person, 9 Hours, 9 Doors, Reccetear: An Item Shop's Tale, Phantasy Star Portable 2, The Witcher, and more! Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Patrick Gann, Dennis Rubenshteyn and Derek Heemsbergen
Join the editors of RPGFan for an extra-long end of the year episode of Random Encounter. In this episode, we discuss the new DLC for Fallout: New Vegas, Infinity Blade, Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth, The Silver Lining, Back To The Future: The Game, Golden Sun: Dark Dawn and more, as well as cover the metric ton of news that has come out in the past month. Stay tuned at the end of the show for our crazy RPG predictions for 2011! Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Zachary Pintchik.
We're back to four party members for the first time in over a month, and we've got plenty of games to talk about. Bryan brings some more iOS games to the table with The War of Eustrath, Scarlett and the Spark of Life, and Shining Force, while Rob, John and Zack get deeper into 9 Hours, 9 Persons, 9 Doors before launching into a discussion of portable RPGs and why we love them. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Bryan Grosnick, and Zachary Pintchik
It's another handheld-heavy week as the editors of RPGFan come together once again to discuss the entrancing 9 Hours, 9 Persons, 9 Doors, the conventional Chaos Rings, and the down-right confusing Knights in the Nightmare. We also talk about "RPG Fatigue" - what it means and how to beat it - and bring you the latest in RPG news. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll and Zachary Pintchik
Podcast Newbie Bryan Grosnick saves the day as another regular goes down for the count, bringing with him news from the handheld front of Ys 7, Crimson Gem Saga, Ash and more. Throw in a hint of Fallout: New Vegas, some long tangents, and a discusssion of the expansion of the RPG genre and you've got yourself this week's Random Encounter. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll and Bryan Grosnick
With one of our party members down for the count, can our three remaining editors win this Random Encounter? Join us as we talk about Fallout: New Vegas, Temple of Elemental Evil and rules compliancy, as well as the latest in RPG news. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll and Zachary Pintchik
This time on the Random Encounter we discuss Phantasy Star Portable 2, Kingdom Hearts Re:Coded, 3D Dot Game Heroes, and the recent re-releases of the Infinity Engine games (Baldur's Gate, Planescape: Torment and Icewind Dale... so far) on GOG.com, as well as the latest news in the world of RPGs. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Stephen Meyerink and Zachary Pintchik
How many chronicles could a Valkyria Chronicle chronicle if a Valkyria Chronicle could chronicle chronicles? How much fun could it be to run an RPG item shop? Is Darkdeath Evilman really evil? And what exactly is a Rorona? Join the editors of RPGFan.com as they discuss Valkyria Chronicles 2, Recettear, ZHP: Unlosing Ranger vs. Darkdeath Evilman, Atelier Rorona: Alchemist of Arland, and the first batch of news fresh from Tokyo Game Show 2010. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Zachary Pintchik and Patrick Gann
In which our trusty heroes discuss Ys 7, Nier, indie-JRPG Recettear, and The World Ends With You, which leads to a discussion of player control and AI in RPGs. After the end of the show Rob talks about his unpleasant experience with Sony's Customer Service department. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Dennis Rubenshteyn, Neal Chandran and Zachary Pintchik
The latest episode of your friendly neighborhood podcast is now available for your listening pleasure. We discuss all sorts of things that are not StarCraft 2, like Arc Rise Fantasia, DeathSpank, Dragon Quest IX, and share our thoughts on random encounters (the mechanic, not the podcast). We definitely do not make any StarCraft 2 references or talk about Mass Effect 2 again, though. Download and listen now! Random Encounter: Better when you see it coming. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Stephen Meyerink, Zachary Pintchik and John McCarroll
This week's episode of the podcast includes discussions on the following RPGs: Half Minute Hero, Magic: Clash of Heroes, Mass Effect 2 (again?!), the possibilities of RPGs on Kinect, Eschalon: Book 2, Shin Megami Tensei: Strange Journey, Dragon Quest IX, and a whole lot of news. Our show for this week features: Robert Steinman, Dennis Rubenshteyn, Zachary Pintchik and Kyle Miller.
This week's episode of the podcast includes discussions on the following RPGs: Lunar Harmony of Silver Star, Parasite Eve, Final Fantasy XIII, Dragon Quest IX, Persona 3 Portable, Tales of Innocence, Mass Effect 2 and Dragon Age II. Our panel also chimes in on the topic of difficulty in RPGs. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Dennis Rubenshteyn, Derek Heemsbergen, Stephen Meyerink, Zachary Pintchik
Join the editors of RPGFan.com as we talk about the (at the time) unreleased Persona 3 Portable, import Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep, and more. Ready to hear John ramble on about how he liked playing as a girl in Persona? Featuring: Rob Steinman, Ashton Liu John McCarroll, Zack Pintchik, Stephen Meyerink A special thanks to Alexi Windler for his work on composing the intro theme song for our podcast. If you like his work, here are his coordinates: AIM: electr0ph0nic E-mail: alexiwindler@gmail.com Music Myspace: myspace.com/alexiwindler
We've got a special edition of Random Encounter for you this week. Instead of our regular podcast format, this edition is all about the E3 show. Our host Rob welcomes 3 of our editors who went to E3 and they talk about what they saw, what they liked and what they hated about the various RPGs at the show. Featuring: Robert Steinman, John McCarroll, Kimberley Wallace, Liz Maas A special thanks to Alexi Windler for his work on composing the intro theme song for our podcast. If you like his work, here are his coordinates: AIM: electr0ph0nic E-mail: alexiwindler@gmail.com Music Myspace: myspace.com/alexiwindler
This week, our podcast team welcomes RPGFan editor Neal Chandran as a guest and discuss among many other subjects, their RPG pet peeves. Featuring: Robert Steinman, Dennis Rubenshteyn, Zack Pintchik, Neal Chandran Questions? Comments? Send an email to Rob: palerobbie@gmail.com
Over the years, RPGFan has tried to keep itself up with the times by adding new things such as a Twitter account, a Facebook page and... errr... that's about it actually. Ok, so maybe we haven't kept up with the times as much as we'd like to but rejoice because today marks a big step in RPGFan's history as we celebrate the launch of our first ever Podcast which we aptly named Random Encounter. Keep in mind that this could be considered a pilot, a test run, a trial, a beta version, well, you get the idea. We feel that the best way to improve our podcast is to have our readers listen to our trials and send us their comments, suggestions, praises, insults or whatever else they want to say about it and then we'll use that to try and improve it with every subsequent episode. For example, expect to eventually hear a theme song for our podcast. We're still trying to find our chemistry and we'll be trying out several editors over the coming weeks to try and find a definitive team for the podcast. We're probably looking to have a set team of perhaps 3 editors with a different guest editor every episode. We hope you enjoy it and send in your thoughts to Robert Steinman at palerobbie@gmail.com since he'll be the one in charge of going through all the suggestions and comments about the podcast.