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Episodes
Join Brendan and Zach and often a rotating special guest as they dive into in-depth conversations about gaming culture and the games themselves.
Episodes
Monday Jan 06, 2025
Monday Jan 06, 2025
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, Brendan and Zach team up with special guest Josh Whittington to revisit the magical (and slightly expensive) world of the Toys to Life phenomenon that defined much of the early 2010s in gaming.
From the groundbreaking launch of Skylanders to the imaginative universe of Disney Infinity and the ambitious crossover chaos (to one's wallet) of Lego Dimensions, the trio examines what made these franchises so captivating—and why the bubble eventually burst. They also discuss the enduring legacy of Nintendo’s Amiibo, and the similarities and differences it held with other toys to life ventures.
Whether you were a dedicated portal master, a Disney superfan, or a Nintendo tragic with boxes filled with amiibo, this nostalgic journey has something for everyone. Tune in for deep dives, shared memories, and a few laughs about those long-gone shelves full of plastic figurines!
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Josh - @Mario_Bones Irreverently Irrelevant
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Monday Dec 23, 2024
Monday Dec 23, 2024
In this jam-packed episode of Blowing Cartridges, special guests Josh, Chase, Alex, and Gookanheimer join Zach and Brendan to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as they explore the history of Nintendo connection tours in Australia. From the prize-filled and goodies rich roadshows of the 2000s, the expanded crew shares their personal experiences and favorite memories of these iconic events.
The conversation then shifts to the present as they dive into Nintendo Live Australia 2024, held in Sydney this past September. They break down the highlights (queues and statues) and the lowlights (queues) of the event, reflecting on how the current landscape of one off events and larger conventions such as PAX compare to the pre 2011 era of Nintendo Connection tours.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Alex - @MarioMaster94
Josh Crowley - @jcrowleydev
Chase
Gookenheimer
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Monday Sep 09, 2024
Monday Sep 09, 2024
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we sit down with Australian video game journalist and developer, James O'Connor, to discuss his upcoming book Untitled Goose Game, soon to be published by Boss Fight Books. Available to back on Kickstarter, the book delves into the game's development and cultural impact.
In the first half of the interview, James shares insights into the writing process, his experience discussing the game with House House, the developers of the game, and his approach of capturing both the magic of Untitled Goose Game and the broader landscape of video game creation in contemporay Australia. The second half of the episode focuses on the game itself, exploring its unique design, charm, and the playful mischief that made it a global sensation. Whether you're a fan of the game or curious about video game journalism, this episode offers an entertaining and informative dive into the world of Untitled Goose Game.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
James- @Jickle: Boss Fight Books: Season 7 - Video Game Pioneers by Gabe Durham — Kickstarter
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Monday Aug 26, 2024
Monday Aug 26, 2024
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we dive into the world of video game movie tie-ins with special guest Luke of Maxi-Geek and Vookcast fame! Join us as we explore the highs and lows of games inspired by blockbuster movies, from the iconic classics such as Goldeneye to the notorious flops such as Minority Report.
The trio chart the trajectory of such adaptations, including the rise in the 2000s of the video game sequel to an existing film, discussing why they believe video game tie-ins have decreased in frequency and what they believe the future may have in store!
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Luke - @Maxi-Geek
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Monday Aug 12, 2024
Monday Aug 12, 2024
In this nostalgia-packed episode of Blowing Cartridges, we dive into the history of video game rentals, from their rise in the '80s and '90s to their eventual decline. Special guest Mark, a former Video Ezy employee from the 2000s, joins hosts Zach and Bremdan to share insider stories from behind the counter.
They discuss their own memories and experiences of renting games, the excitement of discovering new titles every weekend, and the challenges that ultimately led to the end of an era. Tune in for a trip down memory lane that highlights the role rentals played in shaping our gaming experiences.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Friday Jul 05, 2024
Friday Jul 05, 2024
In this cosy episode of Blowing Cartridges, we explore the delightful world of wholesome and cosy games. Joined by podcaster and streamer FulishFuji, we delve into the charm and appeal of these games that offer comfort, relaxation, and a soothing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. FulishFuji shares personal favorites, discusses the impact of cosy games on mental well-being, and provides insights into the growing popularity of this genre. Tune in for an episode filled with genre discussions and gaming recommendations as we analyse what exactly a wholesome game is.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
FulishFuji- fulishfuji.carrd.co
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Wednesday Jun 19, 2024
Wednesday Jun 19, 2024
Gamers may have noticed that over the recent month there has been a plethora of video game announcements, as platform holders and other groups have hosted a number of gaming showcases. Many new games have been announced, alongside further information being provided about previously revealed games.
In this episode we're thrilled to welcome Alex Harding, the mind behind the IndiEXP, an Australian marketing agency dedicated to the promotion of indie games. Dive into the dynamic world of video game marketing as Alex shares his knowledge and experience on the dynamics of promoting indie games in the current market.
We discuss the key strategies that can make or break a game's launch, from leveraging social media and influencer partnerships to creating compelling trailers and engaging with gaming communities. The trio also reflect on memorable gaming trailers and announcement, and what they believe compelling video game marketing is.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Alex- @theindiexp alex@theindiexp.com
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Tuesday Jun 04, 2024
Tuesday Jun 04, 2024
In this episode of the Blowing Cartridges Podcast, we celebrate 25 years of Super Smash Bros, Nintendo's iconic crossover fighting game series that has captivated gamers since its debut in 1999. Join our hosts, alongside special guests Alex and Paul as they dive into the rich history of the franchise, from its humble beginnings on the Nintendo 64 to its latest iteration on the Nintendo Switch. We explore the game's evolution, memorable characters, and groundbreaking mechanics that have made it a beloved staple in the gaming community.
This episode also delves into the passionate division between Super Smash Bros Melee and other entries in the series. Our hosts examine why Melee, released for the GameCube in 2001, has maintained a fiercely loyal competitive scene, and how it differs in gameplay, speed, and technical complexity from its successors. We'll discuss the lasting impact of Melee on the competitive landscape and its role in shaping the community's culture.
Additionally, we shine a spotlight on the Australian competitive Smash community. From grassroots events to international recognition, the Australian Smash scene has carved out its own vibrant niche in the global gaming arena.
Tune in for nostalgic reflections, expert analysis, and exciting discussions on what the future might hold for this legendary series.
Monday May 20, 2024
Monday May 20, 2024
Join us for an immersive journey into the richly detailed world of "Pentiment," the critically acclaimed narrative RPG, developed by Obsidian Entertainment and first released in 2022. In this episode, your hosts delve deep into the game's unique art style, historical setting, and intricate storytelling. We're thrilled to welcome a special guest, Buck, a self-describe 'Pentiment sicko', who brings his experience and engaging commentary to the discussion. Discover how "Pentiment" masterfully intertwines art, history, and mystery to create an unforgettable gaming experience.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Buck - @Bucklepuff
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia
Monday Apr 15, 2024
Monday Apr 15, 2024
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, our hosts, joined by returning guest Mario, dive deep into the captivating world of Metroidvania games. From the atmospheric depths of "Castlevania: Symphony of the Night" to the futuristic exploration of "Metroid Prime," they unravel the intricate design and evolution of Metroidvanias, particularly over the past fifteen years.
Join them as they dissect the core elements that define a Metroidvania experience, from interconnected level design to unlocking new abilities that open up previously inaccessible areas. They reminisce about classic titles that pioneered the genre and discuss how modern interpretations have expanded upon its foundation.
Brendan - @Tamazoid
Zach - @Eggerino
Mario
Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia
Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia