Blowing Cartridges

With the reveal of the Switch 2 and its surprising mouse functionality, it’s the perfect time to dive headfirst into the weird and wonderful world of video game gimmicks. Joined by friend of the show Dave, we unpack what exactly makes something a “gimmick,” and take a nostalgic (and occasionally cringe-inducing) trip through gaming history — from the motion-controlled highs of the Nintendo Wii to the camera-based chaos of the PlayStation EyeToy, and the curious cardboard days of the Nintendo e-Reader.

We also ponder the eternal question: when does a gimmick become a gaming staple? Is innovation always a good thing, or are some ideas better left in the tech graveyard? And of course, we try our hand at predicting what the future of gaming gimmicks might hold.

Plug in, power up, and join us for a lively (and gimmick-packed) discussion!

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Dave

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we dive into the high-stakes world of gambling in video games. With the recent changes to the Australian Classification Board (ACB) ratings, lootboxes and gambling mechanics are under greater scrutiny than ever. Are these changes enough to protect players, or just another regulatory speed bump for the industry?

Joining us for this discussion is our special guest, Sam, who brings firsthand experience in Victorian gambling regulation. We break down the dimensions of gambling and regulation in video games, what the current landscape looks like, and what possible changes we think should be enacted to make a positive change to the industry. 

So, is the house always winning? Or are we finally seeing real change? Tune in to find out!

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Sam

https://azhdarchid.com/you-do-not-gotta-hand-it-to-mihoyo/#fn-4

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Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

As 2024 comes to a close, Zach and Brendan sit down with special guest Kieran of Hopk Gaming to reflect on the biggest gaming moments of the year. From groundbreaking releases to industry lay-offs, studio purchases and closures, we break down the headlines, the hits, and the flops that defined the past 12 months.

What were the standout games? Which surprises caught us off guard? And what does it all mean for the future of video games? Join us for a deep dive into the year that was 2024!

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Kieran - Hopk Gaming

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

It’s that time of year again! Our annual Video Game Music (VGM) episode returns, and we’re thrilled to have John back on the mic. This year, we’re diving into one of VGM's most memorable track types: end credit tunes.  

From heartwarming finales to epic outros with equally epic vocal accompaniments, we’re exploring the tracks that leave lasting impressions long after the game is over. Join us as we share our top 2 personal favorites, together with our favourite from 2024, break down the artistry of these closing themes, and discuss how they elevate a game’s narrative and emotional impact.

Whether you're here for the nostalgia, the hidden gems, or just some good tunes, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Plug in, press start, and let’s roll the credits in style!

Have any comments? Feel free to drop us a line via twitter @blowcartpod or email at [email protected]

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

John - @AuraPaladin Sporcle - John's Video Game Music Quiz

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, Brendan and Zach team up with special guest Josh Whittington to revisit the magical (and slightly expensive) world of the Toys to Life phenomenon that defined much of the early 2010s in gaming.

From the groundbreaking launch of Skylanders to the imaginative universe of Disney Infinity and the ambitious crossover chaos (to one's wallet) of Lego Dimensions, the trio examines what made these franchises so captivating—and why the bubble eventually burst. They also discuss the enduring legacy of Nintendo’s Amiibo, and the similarities and differences it held with other toys to life ventures. 

Whether you were a dedicated portal master, a Disney superfan, or a Nintendo tragic with boxes filled with amiibo, this nostalgic journey has something for everyone. Tune in for deep dives, shared memories, and a few laughs about those long-gone shelves full of plastic figurines!

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Josh - @Mario_Bones Irreverently Irrelevant 

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

In this jam-packed episode of Blowing Cartridges, special guests Josh, Chase, Alex, and Gookanheimer join Zach and Brendan to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as they explore the history of Nintendo connection tours in Australia. From the prize-filled and goodies rich roadshows of the 2000s, the expanded crew shares their personal experiences and favorite memories of these iconic events.

The conversation then shifts to the present as they dive into Nintendo Live Australia 2024, held in Sydney this past September. They break down the highlights (queues and statues) and the lowlights (queues) of the event, reflecting on how the current landscape of one off events and larger conventions such as PAX compare to the pre 2011 era of Nintendo Connection tours.

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Alex - @MarioMaster94

Josh Crowley - @jcrowleydev

Chase 

Gookenheimer 

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we sit down with Australian video game journalist and developer, James O'Connor, to discuss his upcoming book Untitled Goose Game, soon to be published by Boss Fight Books. Available to back on Kickstarter, the book delves into the game's development and cultural impact.

In the first half of the interview, James shares insights into the writing process, his experience discussing the game with House House, the developers of the game, and his approach of capturing both the magic of Untitled Goose Game and the broader landscape of video game creation in contemporay Australia.  The second half of the episode focuses on the game itself, exploring its unique design, charm, and the playful mischief that made it a global sensation. Whether you're a fan of the game or curious about video game journalism, this episode offers an entertaining and informative dive into the world of Untitled Goose Game.

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

James- @Jickle: Boss Fight Books: Season 7 - Video Game Pioneers by Gabe Durham — Kickstarter

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we dive into the world of video game movie tie-ins with special guest Luke of Maxi-Geek and Vookcast fame! Join us as we explore the highs and lows of games inspired by blockbuster movies, from the iconic classics such as Goldeneye to the notorious flops such as Minority Report.

The trio chart the trajectory of such adaptations, including the rise in the 2000s of the video game sequel to an existing film, discussing why they believe video game tie-ins have decreased in frequency and what they believe the future may have in store! 

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Luke - @Maxi-Geek

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

In this nostalgia-packed episode of Blowing Cartridges, we dive into the history of video game rentals, from their rise in the '80s and '90s to their eventual decline. Special guest Mark, a former Video Ezy employee from the 2000s, joins hosts Zach and Bremdan to share insider stories from behind the counter.

They discuss their own memories and experiences of renting games, the excitement of discovering new titles every weekend, and the challenges that ultimately led to the end of an era. Tune in for a trip down memory lane that highlights the role rentals played in shaping our gaming experiences.

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

In this cosy episode of Blowing Cartridges, we explore the delightful world of wholesome and cosy games. Joined by podcaster and streamer FulishFuji, we delve into the charm and appeal of these games that offer comfort, relaxation, and a soothing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. FulishFuji shares personal favorites, discusses the impact of cosy games on mental well-being, and provides insights into the growing popularity of this genre. Tune in for an episode filled with genre discussions and gaming recommendations as we analyse what exactly a wholesome game is.

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

FulishFuji- fulishfuji.carrd.co

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia