Join Jeff and PJ as they dive tail-first into Gex 2: Enter the Gecko, the witty, pop-culture-packed platformer released by Crystal Dynamics in 1998 for PlayStation 1. Originally inspired by groundbreaking 3D platformers like Mario 64, Gex returns—this time in full 3D glory—bringing attitude, humor, and a barrage of quirky one-liners voiced by comedian Dana Gould.

In this episode of Cartridge Chronicles, the guys explore Gex’s adventures through television-themed worlds, discuss the game's unique voiceovers, and highlight the updates made in the recent remastered trilogy. From wrestling finicky camera controls to reliving the hilarious pop-culture references (Austin Powers, anyone?), discover why this game left such a nostalgic mark. Plus, Jeff and PJ unpack regional voiceover differences, share childhood memories, and discuss the ambitious (and bizarre) N64 and Game Boy Color ports.

Grab your remote and buckle up—because as Gex would say, “It’s tail time!”

Get behind the wheel with Jeff and PJ in this episode of Cartridge Chronicles, as they revisit Driver, the groundbreaking 1999 PlayStation classic from Reflections Interactive. You play Tanner, an ex-race car driver turned undercover cop, infiltrating criminal gangs and navigating gritty cities like Miami, San Francisco, LA, and New York. Along the way, you'll uncover corrupt cops, dodge relentless police chases, and (if you’re lucky) foil an assassination plot against the president.

From realistic car physics and impressive graphics to the notoriously brutal opening "parking garage" tutorial mission, Jeff and PJ explore why Driver still matters today—cheat codes highly recommended! Discover how Driver influenced future games, laugh at their frustrations over merciless AI cops, and reminisce about how far gaming has come since those early polygon days.

Buckle up and join us—just don't forget your cheat codes for that first mission!

Rev your engines and load up your missiles—it's time for vehicular mayhem! In the fifth full episode of Cartridge Chronicles, Jeff and PJ dive headfirst into the explosive world of Twisted Metal, the iconic car-combat classic released in 1995 for the original PlayStation. From darkly humorous origins (thanks to traffic-jam frustrations) to its lasting impact as a pioneering 3D action game, we explore the twisted genius behind Calypso's chaotic contest.

Join us as we reminisce about sleepless nights fueled by multiplayer madness, debate the best characters (Sweet Tooth fans, represent!), and uncover surprising connections—including developer SingleTrac’s origins in military flight simulators. Plus, hear about the lost video endings deemed too extreme for release and the unexpected local ties to Salt Lake City.

Buckle up for nostalgia, laughs, and the ruthless battle for Calypso’s prize—this episode is one wild ride you won't want to miss!

Buckle up for the fourth full episode of Cartridge Chronicles, where we hit the road (and everything else in sight!) with Konami’s explosive run-and-gun classic, Jackal. Originally storming arcades in 1986 and rolling onto the NES in 1988, Jackal puts players behind the wheel of an armed jeep on a mission to rescue POWs trapped deep behind enemy lines.

In this episode, Jeff and PJ revisit this beloved action-packed shooter, comparing the arcade and NES versions, battling bizarre bosses like laser-eyed Medusa heads and tank-producing factories, and reflecting on their childhood co-op experiences. Along the way, they discuss hidden exploits, standout soundtrack bangers, and the game’s surprising legacy—even playing it vertically on the Nintendo Switch!

Join us as we navigate bullets, nostalgia, and outrageous jeep warfare, all set to some undeniably catchy 8-bit tunes. If you’ve never experienced the mayhem of Jackal, you’re in for a wild ride!

The Secret of Monkey Island - Pirate Point-and-Click Perfection

In our third full episode of Cartridge Chronicles, we set sail for adventure with The Secret of Monkey Island! This 1990 classic from Lucasfilm Games defined the point-and-click adventure genre with its witty humor, quirky puzzles, and unforgettable characters. We dive into the game's development, the creative minds behind it—including Ron Gilbert, Tim Schafer, and Dave Grossman—and the legendary SCUMM engine that shaped a generation of adventure games.

Join us as we navigate insult sword fighting, explore the iconic Melee Island, and reminisce about the game's lasting impact on gaming culture. 

Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering this classic for the first time, this episode is packed with pirate lore, nostalgic storytelling, and a whole lot of fun.

Battle Clash - Mech Mayhem and the Super Scope Saga
Welcome to the second full episode of Cartridge Chronicles! This time, we’re diving into the high-octane world of Battle Clash. Released in 1992 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, this groundbreaking mech-based boss battle game showcased the innovative capabilities of the Super Scope light gun. Join us as we explore the game’s development by Intelligent Systems, its anime-inspired art style, and the intense gameplay that made it a standout title of its era.

We’ll share personal stories of immersive gameplay, nostalgic memories of light gun gaming, and discuss Battle Clash's place in gaming history. Whether you’re a die-hard retro fan or discovering the classics for the first time, this episode is packed with fun insights, laughs, and a celebration of gaming’s golden age.

Don’t miss this Super Scope Saga and the mech mayhem of Battle Clash!

Ristar - Sega's Forgotten Star
In the inaugural episode of Cartridge Chronicles, hosts Jeff and PJ dive into the vibrant world of Sega's 1995 platformer, Ristar. Explore the fascinating history behind this hidden gem, its connection to the Sonic team, and the innovative gameplay mechanics that made it stand out in an era dominated by 2D platformers. Jeff shares his personal nostalgia for the game and discusses how the Game Gear and Genesis versions differ in surprising ways. Meanwhile, PJ brings a fresh perspective as a first-time player.

The duo also reflects on why Ristar may have been overshadowed in its time, Sega's approach to save systems, and its eventual cult status among retro gaming enthusiasts. Plus, stick around as Jeff and PJ share what they're currently playing and tease the next episode featuring a classic Super Nintendo game with a unique peripheral.

Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to retro, this episode is packed with passion, trivia, and a love for the games that shaped an era. Tune in and relive the magic of Ristar!

Welcome to the debut of Cartridge Chronicles!

In this short and sweet prologue, hosts Jeff and PJ introduce themselves and share their passion for retro gaming. From Jeff’s early DOS adventures to PJ’s nostalgic Nintendo beginnings, they reflect on decades of gaming history. Discover how Cartridge Chronicles is more than just a gaming podcast—it's a celebration of the creativity, stories, and personal memories tied to the games we love.

The duo teases upcoming episodes featuring Ristar and Battle Clash, promising a mix of deep dives into game development, personal connections, and fresh perspectives on classics. Whether you’re here for the nostalgia or to learn the behind-the-scenes tales of gaming's golden era, this is your first checkpoint in an exciting adventure.

Grab your controllers and join us for the journey. Our inaugural episode about Ristar for the Sega Genesis drops soon!