Blowing Cartridges

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 [email protected]

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

In this episode of the Blowing Cartridges Podcast, we celebrate 25 years of Super Smash Bros, Nintendo's iconic crossover fighting game series that has captivated gamers since its debut in 1999. Join our hosts, alongside special guests Alex and Paul as they dive into the rich history of the franchise, from its humble beginnings on the Nintendo 64 to its latest iteration on the Nintendo Switch. We explore the game's evolution, memorable characters, and groundbreaking mechanics that have made it a beloved staple in the gaming community.

This episode also delves into the passionate division between Super Smash Bros Melee and other entries in the series. Our hosts examine why Melee, released for the GameCube in 2001, has maintained a fiercely loyal competitive scene, and how it differs in gameplay, speed, and technical complexity from its successors. We'll discuss the lasting impact of Melee on the competitive landscape and its role in shaping the community's culture.

Additionally, we shine a spotlight on the Australian competitive Smash community. From grassroots events to international recognition, the Australian Smash scene has carved out its own vibrant niche in the global gaming arena.

Tune in for nostalgic reflections, expert analysis, and exciting discussions on what the future might hold for this legendary series. 

Join us for an immersive journey into the richly detailed world of "Pentiment," the critically acclaimed narrative RPG, developed by Obsidian Entertainment and first released in 2022. In this episode, your hosts delve deep into the game's unique art style, historical setting, and intricate storytelling. We're thrilled to welcome a special guest, Buck, a self-describe 'Pentiment sicko', who brings his experience and engaging commentary to the discussion. Discover how "Pentiment" masterfully intertwines art, history, and mystery to create an unforgettable gaming experience. 

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Buck - @Bucklepuff

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, our hosts, joined by returning guest Mario, dive deep into the captivating world of Metroidvania games. From the atmospheric depths of "Castlevania: Symphony of the Night" to the futuristic exploration of "Metroid Prime," they unravel the intricate design and evolution of Metroidvanias, particularly over the past fifteen years. 

Join them as they dissect the core elements that define a Metroidvania experience, from interconnected level design to unlocking new abilities that open up previously inaccessible areas. They reminisce about classic titles that pioneered the genre and discuss how modern interpretations have expanded upon its foundation.

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Mario

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

Join the Blowing Cartridges Podcast for an episode featuring Brian Costelloe, aka Sincespacies, as he takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through the world of Sega gaming in Australia. From his time working at the iconic Sega Hotline to sharing anecdotes about classic Sega titles and hardware, Brian offers firsthand insights into the unique experiences and challenges faced by Australian gamers during the Sega era. This episode provides a glimpse into the continuing legacy of Sega in Australia, making it a must-listen for retro gaming enthusiasts and Sega fans alike.

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Brian Costelloe - @Sincespacies

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

In this episode of the Blowing Cartridges Podcast, we were thrilled to be joined by Nick Cellini, to talk all about his Australian indie studio Turtle Flip Studio and their upcoming game 'Which Way Up.' Join us as we discuss all things related to indie game development in Australia. Nick details his journey in the games industry, shares his design approach and philosophy as well as the challenges he has faced in the development journey of Which Way Up, which is set to release in Q1 2025.

Try the demo or Wishlist Which Way Up on Steam today! https://t.co/5xZED37jUc

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Nick Cellini - @nfcellini @WhichWayUpGame

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, hosts Zach and Brendan, complete neophytes when it comes to all things cosplay, invite Ria and Mes, two experienced cosplayers, to explore the world of cosplay, which has increasingly become a vital part of not only gaming culture, but broader entertainment culture, establishing itself as the outward face of the majority of pop culture and gaming conventions.

The discussion spans various aspects of cosplaying, including how they started in the hobby, competitive scene, favorite memories, and upcoming projects. Mes and Ria offer valuable insights into not only the challenges of crafting costumes bringing characters to life, but also the broader aspects of what makes cosplaying appealing to those fully immersed in the hobby, as well as some tips for those who may be looking to get started cosplaying. 

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

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Ria - @Gaming_Goddess_

Mes - @Fluto_Cosplay

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

In our first recorded episode of 2024, we were excited to be joined by another first-time guest, Buddy Watson, a veteran of Australian video game podcasts, to discuss the year in gaming that was 2023. Addressing issues and topics such as record-level layoffs, film adaptations of video games, the increasing digitalisation of gaming media and our favourite games of the year, we finish with some wild predictions of what some of the highlights/lowlights of gaming in 2024 will be.

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

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Buddy Watson - @BuddyWatson12

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

This year we are mixing it up! We are back again for our annual VGM special, but this time with a twist. Zach has devised a new format where each of the three participants were tasked with drafted four composers in a snake draft, each assembling a dream team of composers. 

So sit back and listen as the trio discuss a wide range of composers from the last 30+ years of video game composition. Additionally, let us know who you think assembled the 'best' slate of composers! 

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

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

John - @AuraPaladin 

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia

Composers Drafted:

Brendan: 

Koji Kondo: - Yoshi's Island Final Boss - Yoshi's Island (1995)

Jeremy Soule - Dragonborn - Skyrim (2011)

Austin Wintory - End Credits - Stray Gods: The Role Playing Musical (2023)

Motoi Sakuraba - The Valedictory Elegy - Guitar Version - Baten Kaiten Kaitos Origins (2006)

Zach:

David Wise - Current Capers: Aquatic Ambience - Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze (2014)

Yoko Shimomura - Fight Against Monsters - Super Mario RPG (2023)

Toby Fox - Final Boss Battle Music - Pokemon Scarlet & Violet (2022)

Masakazu Sugimori - Ghost Trick (Arranged) - Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective (2023)

John:

Nobuo Uematsu - Rebel Army - Final Fantasy 2 (1988)

Lena Raine - Harmony - Harmony the Fall of Reverie (2023)

Jun'ya Ōta (ZUN) - The Deviants' Unobstructed Light: Kingdom of Nothingness - Touhou 19 UDoALG (2023)

Tee Lopes - Lagoon City Zone - Sonic Superstars (2023)

Joined by special guest Ben from Qualbert.com, this episode Zach and Brendan dive into a discussion regarding the past, present and future of the video game journalism landscape in Australia. How different is the media we consume (and how we consume) compared to when this trio were growing up in the late 90s/early 2000s? How do these experiences shape the media we consume and produce? 

Ben shares his insight and experience of building an enthusiast, volunteer-run gaming news and review website, together with transitioning into the gaming industry as a career. 

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

Brendan - @Tamazoid

Zach - @Eggerino

Ben- @Qualbert

Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia

Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia