Happy Hour from the Tower: A Destiny Podcast

Happy Hour from the Tower: A Destiny Podcast

By Tee MorrisSportsLeisureGames
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Happy Hour from the Tower: A Destiny Podcast episodes

  • Episode 71: The Fireteam Returns with Season of the Lost





    To say, it’s been a while would be an understatement. (I looked at the title of our last show and thought “Ouch!”) With technical difficulties overcome, a new job incorporated into the mix, and hopefully a look ahead as to what we are going to talk about, the Fireteam finally return to say “O hai, Guardian! I can haz crozzplay?”



    The Fireteam is ready to rock and roll today:









    We recorded this episode the first week after the Season of the Lost (and that was when the technical difficulty hit), and the Fireteam is here to give you all first impressions of what will be a VERY long season. We also give you our look at The Witch Queen, along with this bonus episode:









    We recorded this “Lost Sector” back in May with Bungie’s Voice Director and friend-of-the-stream, Kevin McMullen. This was the Fireteam’s first attempt to get back into the swing of a schedule; but dramatic changes swung into effect for all of us. So as a way to say “Thank you, Guardians…” for being patient and sticking around with us. here’s a bonus episode where Kevin comes in and shares a look at a creative’s life in lockdown. Thank you, Kevin, for coming into the stream. We hope to have you back again.



    What do you think of The Season of the Lost so far? And what are you excited for with The Witch Queen? And how has crossplay changed Destiny for you? Share with us your thoughts at 703.791.1701, at [email protected], or in the Comments below.



    00:00 — Episode #071: Welcome to Season of the Lost



    * The Fireteam is back!* Tee* Nick* Brandon* Steve



    * Steve’s Race for the Descendant* Big props to TheBigMarvinski* One more triumph…* What about these challenges?* 3rd Encounter Challenge: Of All Trades* 1st Encounter Challenger: Red Rover* Stories from the Deep Stone Crypt* How this Race began* Brandon takes a breath from Destiny after picking up the Splicer seal* Nick pulls off a first in getting the Splicer seal all on his own!* Titan loves Overrides* An unexpected hiatus* Returning to the mics because…last week!* Want a 4K background of Sava-THICC?* Looking back on the Season of the Splicer* A perspective on last season’s storytelling* First impressions of Season of the Lost* “Be careful what you wish for, Parker.”* Pacing yourself in the new season (because it’s gonna be a long season)* So much to cover, but let’s take a break!



    27:31 — Gnarly Nerd Clothing (Use “HHFTT10” and receive 10% off your order.)



    28:50 — Looking Ahead to The Witch Queen



    * DrLupo and Intel Gaming: DSC with Orchestral Accompaniment* This is the way I want to game from here on. LOL* Brandon’s musician perspective* Nick will always love this score* Steve was the most meta of the Fireteam…* Man, spacewalking with an orchestra. Not easy…but Lupo could do it.* A moment of Lupo Love









    * Marching Band Right!!!* It was a good week for Bungie on Steam last week…* Returning to Season of the Lost* Mara Sov returns* Osiris-sus Revealed* Tee’s got a theory…but is shot down mercilessly.
    59 min
  • Episode #70: Welcome to Season of the Chosen





    It has been a while since our last podcast. Between holidays, elections, attempted insurrections, inaugurations, and trying to figure out when to schedule a Faucci Ouchie, the Fireteam has been grinding through to reach the Season of the Chosen.



    Today, that is what we are here to talk about:









    At the time of this recording, the Fireteam has gone through the first week of the Chosen, as well as a Clan Night run in the Deep Stone Crypt. We are, of course talking only the day before Bungie dropped the Dead Man’s Tale quest which Forbes‘ Paul Tassi calls “Bungie at its Best” which, yes, the Fireteam concurs. We will circle around to that and more in our next show.



    What do you think of The Season of the Chosen so far? Share with us your thoughts at 703.791.1701, at [email protected], or in the Comments below.



    00:00 — Episode #070: Welcome to Season of the Chosen



    * We’ve got a few things to talk about on this episode, so buckle in.* PART 1: CLAN NIGHT IN THE DEEP STONE CRYPT * Brandon looks back on Clan Night* If you don’t know what the Deep Stone Crypt is, check out our last show with The Big Marvinski.* Best run to date.* Bungie has set up challenges for the raid, and this one Brandon and Tee faced was Red Rover.* Myth Confirmed: Chaos Mode for the Descent encounter is WAY TOO DAMN FUN!* The Challenges cleared with Current Meta this weekend* Clan Night* Devoid of the Rest (where everyone runs Void)* Red Rover





    Take a look at the “Best Of” Moments from Clan Night in the DSC here!



    * Why are we clocking in the time with the Deep Stone Crypt?* Running for the Descendant Seal & Title* Tee’s run for this would mark his first-ever raid seal. A set of firsts concerning Tee and raids.* Shout out to the members of Current Meta who ran with us…* Beardo (who, recently, suffered a loss in his family. Our Ghosts shine a little brighter for you, Guardian.)* Danfinity, a last-minute substitution* Jenn* MisterDunes* Swing by Current Meta and see what we are up to!* And a quick shout-out to GuardiansMH, in case you are having a rough go in this weird time we are in.* PART 2: SEASON OF THE CHOSEN* Nick steps in with his copious notes on the new, fresh content from Bungie.* We’re going Cabals-deep, once again.* Caitl and Zavala face off, and she is showing off her tusks. (Cheeky lass.)* Bad things happen when you bend the knee…







    * Let’s talk about Battlegrounds!* In the story, it is a ceremony who are looking to ascend to the War Council and Guardians are looking to gum up the works.* Two Battlegrounds introduced:* Behemoth (Nessus) * Hailstone (Europa)* … and coming soon at the time of recording: The Cleansing (now active in the EDZ)* Remember to look BEHIND the loot chest for the bonus chests.* Tee has been super happy with Battlegrounds.* Brandon admits the even gets tough if you’re not mowing down those adds.* This grind feels better than the Wrathborn Hunts. (Both are still better than those stupid towers…)* A few tips on leveling your character* Run for Powerfuls* Run for Pinnacles* Don’t forget: With Battlegrounds,
    1 hr 10 min
  • Episode #69 (Dudes!): Season of the Hunt and the Deep Stone Crypt (with Raid Maestro, TheBigMarvinski)

    Tee, TheBigMarvinski, Brandon, and Nick at GuardianCon 2018



    What a week your Fireteam has enjoyed, one of many reasons our usual bi-weekly schedule hit a bump. The Season of the Hunt is upon us along with the launch of the long-awaited new raid, the Deep Stone Crypt. And congratulations to those folks from clan Luminous:



    * Aoterra  * Claw  * Flux  * Schendzie  * SiegeDancers  * Sotosolice 



    …completing this incredible journey of challenges and lore in 5:29:10! Let’s go!!! 



    And when it comes to raids, TheBigMarvinski is no stranger to the experience, which is why the Fireteam invited him for this episode. If you frequent Tee’s stream, you know Marv has helped Tee become a better Guardian, and now runs with Tee and Brandon in the Deep Stone Crypt. These three in the first week of the raid’s availability have run Europa’s latest challenge several times, and we feature our own perspectives here!









    Have you run Deep Stone Crypt? What do you think of it? Enjoying the Wrathborn Hunts? Share with us your thoughts at 703.791.1701, at [email protected], or in the Comments below.



    00:00 — Episode #069 (Dudes!): Season of the Hunt and Deep Stone Crypt (with special guest, TheBig Marvinski!)



    * Welcome back, Marv!* Who is TheBigMarvinski?* Three-year streamer* Long-time gamer with a penchant for Destiny* Effs up your world when taking on the role of a goose* Jumping in straight away with Marv.* Europa as a sandbox continues to deliver.* Marv thinks the core activities need attention* What is “The Loop” when it comes to Destiny 2* Obtain Pinnacles…* …then go for Powerfuls…* …all while charging the Lure.* Brandon ranks Beyond Light compared to previous DLCs * The New Light Quest: Brandon’s ran it, and he respects it.* Tee derails with politics and hydration.* Enjoying the ride across Europa* Nick chimes in on the resolution of a long-dangling plotline. * Our local loremaster looks at the evolution of Uldren Sov from concept to the Wrathborn Hunts.* We’ve had the Crow on this show, and we have now come full circle.* Tee still has a deep love for Europa* Europa is what Titan should have been.* The deeper we descend into this Jovian moon, the more discoveries we make…* …and the more twisted the mystery becomes.* Tee agrees with Marv on the strange place Crow’s bounties fit into the Daily Grind.* A deeper dive into The Loop* If you’re new, just play the game.* If you’re trying to get Endgame Content ready (i.e. the Deep Stone Crypt), the Loop flows differently.* Play the game, finish the main campaign.* Grind to 1200-1210* Run for Pinnacles* Run for Powerfuls* Marv’s mistake: Going on Weapon Quest too soon.* Brandon’s perspective on the Exotic Quests* Tee, do you need a nap? (We had raided earlier in the morning.)* Behind the scenes with Nolan North who is too good at his job…









    * An improvement in exotic quests: An appeal to the casual player.* A missed detail: The lore behind the weapons, the activities, and everything in the game.* This is the Birth of the Exos* READ. THE. LORE.
    52 min
  • Episode #68: Blinded Beyond the Light

    IT’S FINALLY HERE! Destiny 2: Beyond Light dropped a week ago today, and the Fireteam has come together to sound off on what they think of it. Tee, Nick, Brandon, and special guest Steve Saylor (who felt that it was only just he return to talk about Beyond Light since he was there on Launch Day) deep dive into this latest expansion.





    Instead of struggling with DMCA, we went with the raw start. No music. Just us.



    In case you missed the 411 on Steve, he’s a voice for accessibility in gaming, sure, and loves Destiny as you experience in Blind Leads the Blind, a special run in the Solar System alongside Tee (and others) that happens on Tee’s stream Thursday nights starting at 7pm ET.



    So what do you think of Beyond Light? Share with us your thoughts at 703.791.1701, at [email protected], or in the Comments below; and feel free to leave Steve a message. He’s sultry, you know?



    00:00 — Episode #068: Blinded Beyond the Light with Steve “The Blind Gamer” Saylor



    * Russians want to make Tee famous! Hot damn!* I wonder if Dreamy Matt Mercer has a nickname for him…and if he doesn’t, we have made one for him!* So, Steve, WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR LIFE?!* One week into Beyond Light…* Steve feels like he’s playing an all-new Destiny while still remaining in the continuing saga of the Destiny Universe.* Brandon feels the push forward from all the previous storytelling and loves this big step Bungie is taking with Destiny.* “We should do more live events.” — Brandon* Tee may have found the expansion that tops Rise of Iron. Europa is a stunning masterpiece of game design, both above and below ground.* Tee’s modest tip: Don’t miss out on the content of Beyond Light while doing the seasonal challenges. * But, Tee, how do you really feel about Stasis?




    When @A_dmg04 asks “Hey, Guardians, how are you doing?”Me: pic.twitter.com/1F2U7TyGzQ— Tee Morris (@TeeMonster) November 15, 2020




    * Nick takes the mic concerning Beyond Light…* While many of the recent expansions feels formulaic, this one does not, beginning with removing half the map.* A deeper look at Eramis who is turning on machine, turning on the Traveler; and there is a twinge of sympathy for the devil.* The murky lore surrounding the Traveler* Does the Traveler believe in us, or is this entity more about self-preservation? * The Darkness is a very different super from what we are used to, and there are consequences we have not grappled with yet.* A first impression of Stasis* Brandon is enjoying the new subclass, but feels the Hunter version of Stasis is not roaming as the other classes in their control.* Nick is having a good time with the Titan Stasis…provided he knows how to aim himself.* The desire to return to the Light? That’s going to be a character-driven thing.* Steve echoes what Nick and Brandon think — more practice is needed.* A huge selling point for Stasis: making platforms with grenades.* And there’s Nick, looking to start up trouble…



    35:18 — Gnarly Nerd Clothing(Use the code “hhftt10” at checkout to get 10% off your order and to support Happy Hour from the Tower)



    36:38 — Episode #068: Blinded Beyond the Light with Steve “The Blind Gamer” Saylor (Part II)








    1 hr 14 min
  • Episode #67: Looking Ahead to Beyond Light

    With the Festival of the Lost winding down and anticipation building, Destiny 2: Beyond Light is drawing closer and closer. The Fireteam has watched the trailers, enjoyed the various teasers, and even considered some of the speculations online; but today, Tee, Nick, Brandon, and special guest Steve Saylor (who really wanted to come back and actually talk about Beyond Light)





    We keep things tight for Episode #67…but the after-show stream focuses on another big event in November.NerdsVote.com if you need additional details on what’s at stake.



    You all know Steve as a voice for accessibility in gaming, sure, but Steve is also passionate about Destiny as you see in Blind Leads the Blind, a special run in the Solar System alongside Tee (and others) that happens on Tee’s stream Thursday nights starting at 7pm ET. In this episode, we share our hopes, expectations, and Nick’s copious notes on what is coming in November. Be brave, Guardians. Beyond Light is coming.



    Share with us your thoughts at 703.791.1701, at [email protected], or in the Comments below; and feel free to leave Steve a message. He’ll be back, for sure.



    00:00 — Episode #067: Looking Ahead to Beyond Light with Steve “The Blind Gamer” Saylor



    * Weren’t we going to talk about Beyond Light in the last episode?* And here’s Pip who really popped in on stream to say “hi” to her new wingman from Ghost of Tsushima: Legends…









    * Nice to be able to know the adults can sometimes wear out the teenagers. Let’s goooooooo!!!* Expect TWO highlight reels this week, everyone.* A look back on the week…* Steve is still doing Canadian Black Ops via video games.* Nick is trying to grasp that there is less than a week until Halloween.* Both Nick and Brandon are rocking fine Destiny fashions. Watch the raw stream footage above, or go shopping here. * Tee’s still making progress on Luna’s Howl and enjoying the Haunted Forest (still) while job hunting.* And yes, Tee’s still working through the exhausting (but brilliant) The Last of Us: Part 2.* On the subject of traumatic moments of video games… (Ghost of Tsushima spoiler here.)* On this show, we are going to stay on track…* ….but Brandon knocks us off-topic with a spotlight on our guy, Steve Saylor; and Watchdogs: Legion.* Wait…Nick is getting us back on topic?* First Question to the Fireteam: What are we looking forward to?* Steve: New Revelations, New Locations, and New Supers* Brandon: Silence & Squall (Revenant Weapons), and the new direction of the Bungie Universe* Tee: Entering the Deep Stone Crypt* The Secret of Becoming a Sherpa: Making Mistakes and Dtying a Lot* Nick: Diving into the Lore of Europa* Thank you, Deej.* The new Tutorial character, and ideas for the Destiny soap opera…* 21 November 2020 — a new Raid is coming…* Nick will actually be in town when the new content drops!* Thoughts on Beyond Light‘s latest trailer…









    * How Beyond Light is a new “even ground” for all Guardians. * Beyond Light would actually have been Destiny 3 if Activision was still involved. This is
    1 hr 25 min
  • Episode #66: A Different Look at Dungeons with Steve “The Blind Gamer” Saylor

    The Blind Gamer, one of those gamers who has two seats in his studio…



    We took something of an unintentional break (because, you know, technical difficulties and book deadlines happen…) but once again, we are back to talk about dungeons. Specifically, we’re here to talk about dungeons and their accessibility as we welcome Steve” The Blind Gamer” Saylor back to the podcast, fresh off his September push run in the run for a Moments of Triumph tee-shirt.





    This is our second take at Episode #66.We feel good about this one.



    Steve is a known and respected voice in accessibility, and with all three dungeons in his rear view, we invited him on the show to talk a bit about the challenges of a dungeon. With Steve’s blindness adding to the challenge of the endgame content, we wanted to know how accessible these three events are.



    We then planned to talk about Beyond Light. But…



    Share with us your thoughts at 703.791.1701, at [email protected], or in the Comments below; and feel free to leave Steve a message. He’ll be back, for sure.



    00:00 — Episode #066: A Different Look at Dungeons with Steve “The Blind Gamer” Saylor



    * Strap in, Brandon, we’re going to have some fun today.* Is Steve Saylor really a “Special Guest” at this point? He’s a regular fixture on the stream at the very least!* Tee’s branching out and trying new games…









    * Join Tee and Phil Rossi (along with Brandon Kelly) on Thursday nights (10 PM ET) for the Phasmophobia Scream Stream. * No really, this IS a Destiny podcast.* Some things you should know about this Prophecy run:* Steve had his eyes on the prize. (No, really, he did.) * The base power level to run Prophecy is 1050, according to Bungie, although players suggest 1060.* Steve’s power level when he ran it was…wait, what?* If you want to see why Steve has two seats in his office, check out his Only Fans.* The definition of a close shave:




    In today’s #Prophecy run with @thebigmarvinski and @stevesaylor, @TeeMonster knew he cut it close near the end of this final fight.He didn’t know it was *this* close. pic.twitter.com/2VN6foCoKv— HHFTT Podcast (@HHFTTPodcast) September 5, 2020




    * Brandon, the Great Enabler* And yes, Steve got his Moments of Triumph shirt, thanks to Danfinity.* Brandon sets it up: What are dungeons?* Dungeons can be best described as “half-Raids” for the uninitiated.* Shattered Throne, located in the Ascendant Plane the Dreaming City* The Pit of Heresy, located on the Moon* Prophecy, located in Infinite Space* Steve’s Favorite: The Pit of Heresy (which is Brandon’s, as well)* Prophecy has a lot of multi-tasking in comparison to Pit of Heresy* However, Pit of Heresy has a focus as well as a challenge.
    1 hr 20 min
  • Episode #65: A Look at Raids and Dungeons from D2

    Brandon’s is en route. Finally.



    It was five raids in five days for Tee and Brandon, along with two dungeons between recordings. That’s why the Fireteam assembles this week with a look at the various raids and dungeons offered up by Team Bungie since the dropping of Destiny 2 in 2017.





    EDITOR’S NOTE: You might notice the first fifteen minutes of the stream is silent. As penance for playing electronica at the beginning of our stream, Twitch silenced the beginning of Episode 65. An intro was put together from the opening of two previous shows. Audio skills, baby…



    Nick is not one for the manic energy of the raid, but Tee and Brandon cannot get enough of the endgame event; and this is why it’s something they love to run and they genuinely enjoy doing. Even with the massive push of getting the “No Power in the Verse Can Stop Me” emblem (We see what you did there, Bungie.), Tee and Brandon are ready to go again.



    What do you think of Raids and Dungeons? Do you go for the challenges, the lore, or the social aspect of it? Share with us your thoughts at 703.791.1701, at [email protected], or in the Comments below.



    00:00 — Episode #065: A Look at Raids and Dungeons from D2



    * Before Tee can get in a word about the plan for today’s show, Nick comes in with the derail…* HAPPY BIRTHDAY, COURTENAY TAYLOR!!!* Our girl Amanda levels up!* Vin Diesel and Grant Bowler, also with the Level Up! Happy birthday, guys! * Brandon launches us into the show with defining what a Raid is.* A Dungeon is like a Raid, but only half in length of what a Raid is. Particularly in Fireteam size.* Shout-out to the design of the Prophecy.* Raids are a Fireteam of 6. Dungeons are three Guardians.* Tee’s biggest challenge with a Raid: organizing a Fireteam of six.* A look between Destiny and Destiny 2* Tee has been raiding since Destiny, but was not comfortable with them until Eater of Worlds in Destiny 2.* Raids in D1 could be soloed, not that they were designed to do so.* Raid Lairs are a more compact version of a Raid, and (maybe) easier to get a team together.* A minor gripe: The Leviathan was cool…the first go-round.







    * The Raids of Destiny* The Vault of Glass (Brandon’s Favorite)* King’s Fall* Crota’s End* Wrath of the Machine (Tee’s Favorite)* The Raids of Destiny 2* The Leviathan* Eater of Worlds* Spire of Stars* The Last Wish* Scourge of the Past* Crown of Sorrow* Garden of Salvation* Did Marv want to get a team together to return to Wrath?* The anticipation for the VoG return and the creeping burnout around the Garden* Visit iLulu for open slots in her continuing raid schedules* Brandon is not keen on “Vex Gambit” but DAT ARMOR…* Favorite Boss and Favorite Mechanic in the Raids?* Tee’s Favorite Mechanic: The Witch’s Blessing* Crown of Sorrow is intimidating for Tee, but if he can run it with ThermalWolff, he’s in.* Why you want Brandon as your wingman* Brandon’s favorite boss: Galron (also from Crown of Sorrows)* Brandon’s Favorite Mechanic: The Final Boss Fight in Spire of Stars * Tee’s Favorite Boss: Riven from The Last Wish (his favorite raid)* Quick shout-out to ResonantMoon and their take on Destiny 2:









    * What’s the appeal of a raid?
    1 hr 12 min
  • Episode #64: Hard Talk from the Tower
    Be brave, Guardians. We believe you.

    No breaks.

    One shot.

    Speaking from a place of raw honesty.

    After an unexpected one-hour rant on Tee’s stream, Tee reached out to the fireteam and set up this recording that is both on topic (sadly) about current events in the Destiny community.

    Share with us your thoughts at 703.791.1701, at [email protected], or in the Comments below.

    00:00 — Episode #064: Hard Talk from the Tower

    • It’s starting off like any other Happy Hour, but give us a few minutes…
    • A quick look at the Season of Arrivals
      • Brandon is extremely happy with the new content. It’s a step in the right direction.
      • Nick was not ready for this conversation, but we should talk a bit about Destiny.
      • Tee’s thoughts on the new Prophecy dungeon
    • Two weeks of tumultuous events in the Destiny community
    • DISCLAIMER: We are three straight white guys talking about sexual harassment. Yes, we know this.
    • That being said, we’re going to talk about this subject matter because we have to.
    • A few thoughts before we move forward on this…
      • No victim blaming or shaming. We believe you.
      • We’re flawed.
      • Brandon brings a unique perspective on this discussion.
      • This is not your normal Happy Hour from the Tower episode.
    Brandon and Tee at GuardianCon 2018
    • It begins with a Medium post from SheSnaps.
    • From here, voices began to speak up.
    • Tee had set himself up on The Last of Us, Part II on Father’s Day…but spent some time talking about this on his own.
    Tee’s Last of Us stream starts off with a hard talk from Twitch Dad
    • It’s been a pretty intense month, let’s be honest.
      • Pride Month
      • Black Lives Matter
      • …and then all this happens in the Destiny community.
    • Nick emphasizes the importance of communication and overcoming the fear of what victims are feeling.
    • Brandon offers a younger perspective to what has been unfolding within the gaming community.
    • Tee’s trigger: Notoriety Management
      • Tee recalls his time as an actor…
      • …and how it segues into his experience as a podcaster, back in 2006-2008.
      • The ease of buying into your own hype
    • A response to the streamer that sounds like “Reams Hard” — Last time I checked, it’s my responsibility not to force myself into a woman’s personal space.
    • If you need help, check out the Discord server run by Guardians MH.
    • Nick recalls his own struggle with notoriety during his hard rocker days…
    Nick’s still got it…but it’s got a lot more self-control.
    • When Tee noticed the patterns…
      • Tee has some fun at Renaissance fairs…and that was a problem.
      • True confessions from the science fiction convention circuit
      • Slowing the rock and roll, and steering clear of the Old School
    • Nick echoes the change in his own approach to the world when ascending to parenthood.
    • How do you learn better behavior and avoiding your own hype?
    • Wishing some serious love towards Reams Hard.
    • The Importance of Owning It
      • Phrase we need to stop saying: “But you have to understand”
      • You are truly sorry if you work to make sure it doesn’t happen again
      • Brandon on breaking your own programming.
      • Tee’s story from JMU Marching Royal Dukes days and another phrase we need to stop saying: “Boys will be boys.”
    • Freedom of Speech is NOT Freedom of Accountability or Responsibility
    • If anyone has a “responsibility” it is us as an audience as we are enabling and empowering dangerous individuals.
    • Recognizing bad situations, and how “phoning a friend” (even the ones in New Zealand) can save you.
    • Wise words from the Doctor of Twitch.
    • The responsibility of possessing a viable platform
    • Why not be like Markiplier? Why not be more like Steve Saylor? Is it harder to do? Yes, but the end result is worth it all.
    • Action items: What we can do to be better Guardians?
    • Being better is not easy but it’s going to be worth it.
    • Be Brave, Guardians.

    Where can you find the Fireteam?

    • Drop the Tower a line at…
    • Where to find us online…
      • Facebook
      • Twitter
      • Pinterest
      • YouTube
    • And here’s where to find us on PlayStation Network…
      • Tee — TheTeeMonster
      • Brandon — Th3rmalw0lff
      • Nick — Rev3Dood

    Remember to leave us a comment or questions
    for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
    We’ll talk about it!

    And remember, you can find the show on
    iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play,
    and Spotify!
    Subscribe, listen, and drop us a review.

    Eyes up, Guardian!
    Time to give up the Ghost.
    Thanks for listening. 


    1 hr 7 min
  • Episode #63: A Week of Awesome from Bungie (with special guest, The Big Marvinski!)
    Tee, TheBigMarvinski, Brandon, and Nick at GuardianCon 2018

    Your Fireteam assembles with a lot to talk about (well over an hour’s worth!) with what can only be described as an incredible week from Bungie. There was the reveal of what’s to come followed by the first week of the Season of Arrivals. There was so much to talk about, we brought in a special guest long overdue for a visit to the Tower…

    There’s Social Distancing and then there’s Social Distancing: Grandmaster Level. That’s TheBigMarvinski. If you frequent Tee’s stream, you know Marv. He pulls no punches, he calls it like he sees it, and he knows destiny inside and out. Hailing from the UK, Marv has taken Tee under his mighty wing and helped Tee overcome challenge he thought out of reach. Watch the stream above for the fully-unedited recording session, a good time to be sure.

    What do you think of what’s coming ahead? Share with us your thoughts at 703.791.1701, at [email protected], or in the Comments below.

    00:00 — Episode #063: A Week of Awesome from Bungie (with special guest, TheBig Marvinski!)

    • When it comes to social distancing, no one beats TheBigMarvinski.
    • Who is TheBigMarvinski?
      • Coming up on third anniversary as a streamer
      • Long-time gamer with a penchant for Destiny
      • Effs up your world when taking on the role of a goose
    • Checking in with the Kellys
    • Brandon gives a perspective on missing school because yeah, the youths are missing school.
    • A Brit’s perspective on how COVID-19 management is being handled in the United Kingdom (SPOILER: It’s not going well.)
    • Looking at the Bungie Reveal and The Season of Arrivals today, so strap in and hold on!
    • Welcome to Bungie’s Big Reveal
    • The Fireteam’s reactions to Bungie’s incredible George Floyd tribute.
      • Shoutout to Red Queen and her real-time interactions with Chat
      • From the Kellys: a PERFECT statement
      • BLACK LIVES MATTER!
      • Nick gives a look at Cisco’s reaction to an “All Lives Matter” approach to what’s happening in the world.
      • Marv has undertaken a charity for the month of June to bring attention to Black Lives Matter. If you can donate, do so. If you can’t, circulate this link.
      • The impact of Bungie’s tribute on Tee
      • A quick shout to friend of the stream and the podcast, Steve Saylor, and his own honest tribute to Naughty Dog…

    I've been reluctant to post this.

    I recorded my reaction when I saw the #accessibility settings in #TheLastofUsPartII for the first time thinking it would be a fun video for posterity. I…did not expect this.

    This is why we do what we do.

    Thank you @Naughty_Dog. pic.twitter.com/D5Or2B9Tfw

    — Steve Saylor – Canadian Game Award Nominee (@stevesaylor) June 12, 2020
    • How deep the reaction to Bungie’s tribute reaches.
      • “We need to be better.”
      • Other studios are stepping up to echo “Black Lives Matter.”
      • God Bless K-Pop
    • Could this be the best reveal ever from Bungie?
      • Marv: “Finally, we’re seeing cohesion in the storytelling.”
      • Brandon: “Three years of direction? Yes, please!”
      • Nick: “#MyPeople.”
    • We love the new “trash can” feature from The Drifter.
    • What are you more excited about? The return of The Stranger, or the return of The Cosmodrome?!?
    • Variks impersonations all around!
    • New Guardians (post-D2) finally experience the Cosmodrome as a map.
    • All this talk of original Destiny reminds Tee of his new stream content: Fireside Lore.
    • The upcoming chapters of Destiny…
      • Beyond Light — Fall 2020
      • The Witch Queen — 2021
      • Lightfall — Fall 2022
    • We love Eris on this podcast.
    • We haven’t even touched on the LIVE EVENT, but we will cover that in the second half of the show. (SPOILER: We forgot to do that.)
    • Talking about Vaulted Content
      • Nick: “Destiny’s getting a little…bloated.”
      • Vaulting content makes a lot of sense.
      • Marv: “It’s a return of D1’s Moments of Triumph.”
      • Brandon: “Take me back!”
    • We’re looking forward to what’s coming…

    40:24 — Gnarly Nerd Clothing
    (10% off your order with the code “hhftt10” at Checkout)

    41:43 — Episode #063: A Week of Awesome from Bungie (Part II)

    • Marv nails the rejoiner. FIRST TRY!!!
    • How cool would it be if you had Marv narrating your meetings
    • First Impressions of the Season of Arrivals
      • Yes, Tee’s adding in a “the” but Brandon will correct him. Later.
      • Brandon on the difference between the Contact Event and the Seraph Towers
      • Talkin’ bout swords old and new
      • Nick add thoughts on the Contact Events, Umbral Engrams, and solid storytelling
      • Marv sees lessons learned from the Seraph Tower event. Overall, the first week offered a solid first impression.
    • Marv’s Beef: While sunsetting weapons isn’t an issue, curated weapons you already have will not go forward. So, start that grind again.
    • Witherhoard…Witherhole…WHATEVER….
    • A few thoughts on Trinity Ghoul, exotics for sale, and that “curated rolls” matter…
    • …and back to Trinity Ghoul.
    • A spoiler-free look at the new Prophecy dungeon from Marv
    • Dungeons vs. Raids — what do you prefer?
      • Marv’s tip on soloing the Pit of Heresy (particularly at the Ritual)
      • Tee’s loves the Raid, but there’s something about those Dungeons.
      • Tee’s favorite memories from the Shattered Throne
    • We’ve been at this for five years! (We love this game, safe to say.)
    • What we’re looking forward to in the Season of Arrivals
      • Marv: The Flawless seal
      • A quick divergence to talk about this…
    • Concerning cheaters in Trials
      • Marv: “I’d rather go with a DDoS than cheaters in the final round.”
      • From Deep_Fish in Chat: “What can Bungie do to protect players from cheaters?”
      • Returning to Marv: “The hackers are two steps ahead.”
      • Our resident cybersecurity expert, Nick, chimes in.
      • Taking development (of any kind) to remote locations. It can’t be easy.
    • Returning to the discussion of “What we are looking forward to…”
      • Brandon: “Better storytelling.”
      • Nick expresses his love for Titan and the Contact event there.
      • Where to find Marv and CHECK OUT THAT CHARITY STREAM!

    Where can you find the Fireteam?

    • Drop the Tower a line at…
    • Where to find us online…
      • Facebook
      • Twitter
      • Pinterest
      • YouTube
    • And here’s where to find us on PlayStation Network…
      • Tee — TheTeeMonster
      • Brandon — Th3rmalw0lff
      • Nick — Rev3Dood

    Remember to leave us a comment or questions
    for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
    We’ll talk about it!

    And remember, you can find the show on
    iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play,
    and Spotify!
    Subscribe, listen, and drop us a review.

    Eyes up, Guardian!
    Time to give up the Ghost.
    Thanks for listening. 

    1 hr 24 min
  • Episode #62: Tales from the Deep Stone Crypt

    We have a Fireteam of four this go-round as we gather on Discord to talk Destiny, mainly about the end of Season of the Worthy…and a quick nod to a new game on the scene.

    In what is becoming known as the COVID-19 edition of the podcast, Happy Hour from the Tower is back on stream and on pod as Tee, Nick, Brandon, and Obi team up to look back on the Season of the Worthy, now currently winding down in game. It was a season of up’s, down’s, grand slams, and swings-and-misses, so

    What do you think? Share with us your thoughts at 703.791.1701, at [email protected], or in the Comments below.

    00:00 — Episode #062: Tales from the Deep Stone Crypt

    • The COVID-19 approach is taking hold with the Fireteam, and Obi is kicking off this podcast with a proper start. Nick approves.
    • What’s been going on?
      • Tee and Pip have wrapped their Friday games,
      • Pip completely takes an unexpected turn in what she wanted to game.
      • Tee is taking advantage of the Return to Arkham bundle on PSN.
      • As for Pip….welcome to Manhunter.
      • Ki-wi-SHARK-do-dooo-de-do-do….
      • A quick review of Maneater — WOW! What a blast!
    • What is happening TONIGHT…
    • The Season of the Worthy from the Fireteam’s perspective…
      • Obi was not impressed with the pre-existing issues that remained unresolved.
      • Brandon found the activities repetitive and the storytelling uneven.
      • Nick makes the correlation between Destiny and the band GWAR.
      • For a deeper dive into all this, look at Episode #61 of the podcast.
      • Obi re-discovers a joy in Destiny with a flawless Seraph run, but he feels like Bungie is making Guardians helping out one another a tougher task.
    • As voiced in the previous episode, Bungie invested in to one event for Triumphs and Titles…
    • TheBigMarvinski asks of the pinnacle events in the season — pursuing the Almighty title, Trials, and Grandmaster Nightfalls — what did we do?
    • How do you bridge the gap between the casual and the hardcore player?
    • A decision between running the GMN and a Raid.
    • Brandon believes in Matchmaking, and Obi agrees.
    • Before we get to talking about next season, Tee wants to discuss a tweet from Gladd…

    Y’all staying in shape out there?? pic.twitter.com/w2ShHQ43Pe

    — Gladd (@Gladd) May 27, 2020
    No, not THIS tweet…

    Honestly, recovs are ruining Destiny right now.

    These accounts are being taken out of PvE and it’s lowering the population that’s doing regular public events and strikes.

    How am I supposed to heroic a PE or finish off a strike boss when all these recov accounts are wiping kids?

    — Gladd (@Gladd) May 27, 2020
    THIS tweet.
    • Recovery Accounts (or Recovs) defined, and what damage is done by these accounts.
    • The Fireteam chimes in on Account Recovs
      • Brandon is not a fan of the Account Recovery, specifically “Why would you do this?”
      • Nick weighs in on this from a cybersecurity perspective, and “like father, like son” he asks…
      • ONE REASON: It’s big money to run recovs.
      • An aside (or two) about the joy of earning something on your own.
      • From Drafty: What if you’re doing a friend a favor? And Tee fields it from both sides of the argument.
      • Obi doesn’t see what the impact recovs have on PVE, but PVP? That’s very different.
    • Now it is time to look ahead to the season ahead…

    29:30 — Gnarly Nerd Clothing
    (10% off your order with the code “hhftt10” at Checkout)

    30:49 — Tales from the Deep Stone Crypt (Part II)

    • A hiccup in Bungie’s network dropped a tease a bit too soon.
    • Paul Tassi had thoughts on where we are headed…
    • …but Byf talked about this two years ago!
    • Okay, is opening up a brand new story thread really a good idea right now? We have a LOT of open threads right now.
    • A new map? New adventures? Exo lore? SURE!!! But……
    • So what’s taking priority here? The Almighty or the Darkness? We want to trust Bungie, but there are a lot of moving parts at present.
    • So let’s speculate what could be coming…
    • Did anyone else take a pause when it came out that Rasputin used Guardians AS BAIT! Why is no one talking about this?!
    • And here’s Obi, always trying to find a bright side to people….and A.I.
    • This is the point of the podcast where Brandon ignores Tee…
    • …until we get back on point, and Brandon offer a counterpoint to the Deep Stone Crypt.
    • A debate on Titan’s fate. And eff Mercury.
    • Welcome to the Season of Speculation, everybody.

    Where can you find the Fireteam?

    • Drop the Tower a line at…
    • Where to find us online…
      • Facebook
      • Twitter
      • Pinterest
      • YouTube
    • And here’s where to find us on PlayStation Network…
      • Tee — TheTeeMonster
      • Brandon — Th3rmalw0lff
      • Nick — Rev3Dood
      • Obi — ObiOrion

    Remember to leave us a comment or questions
    for the show at 703.791.1701, or here at the blog.
    We’ll talk about it!

    And remember, you can find the show on iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play,
    and Spotify!
    Subscribe, listen, and drop us a review.

    Eyes up, Guardian!
    Time to give up the Ghost.
    Thanks for listening. 

    54 min

About Happy Hour from the Tower: A Destiny Podcast

From the publisher's feed

Eyes up, Guardian. Time to give up the Ghost. First round's on us!