Literate Gamer

Jonathan and Nick discuss the last two decades of Massively Multiplayer Online Role-playing Games, from World of Warcraft to Star Wars: the Old Republic, to Destiny: the good, the bad, and where we go from here.

Jonathan discusses Catherine, a Playstation 3 game full of uncertainty, dark and mature themes, relationships, and timed block puzzles. It's very good, but not for the faint of heart.

Jonathan and Nick speak with Trevor about Remnant: from the Ashes, a third-person shooter with atmosphere and tendencies much like Dark Souls. It’s a very solid experience, fun from start to finish. We can’t wait for more content!

Jonathan reveals a new discovery, the board game platformer Slide Quest: quite ingenious, novel, with some real challenge at later levels!

Jonathan and Nick discuss the true nature of genre in the wake of a variety of new Star Wars movies and shows, and a rich history of Star Trek and other properties. What is Science Fiction, and what is Fantasy or Western in Space? Listen in for the answers...

Jonathan erupts enthusiasm about this holiday spooktacular: Super Ghouls and Ghosts, a classic that still holds up, wonderful fun and fantastic monster-slaying action.

Jonathan and Nick discuss Russian philosophical science fiction masterpiece STALKER, spawned from the book "Roadside Picnic", along with three games of quality and a surprisingly vibrant mod community. The film is VERY GOOD.

A video on the making of the film:

Watch the movie on the Criterion Collection streaming service:

Jonathan discusses Castlevania 64, the first 3D entry in the franchise. There are a few departures from form, but enough novelty and loyalty to the name that it remains fun and worthy of inclusion in the halls of whips and vampires.

Jonathan and Nick discuss the Metro franchise: Russian sensibilities and culture delivered through a first-person-shooter packaging. Join an in-depth discussion of oppressive claustrophobia and darkness made remarkably compelling.

The Miracle of Sound: “The Day the World Died”

Jonathan expounds on a Nintendo classic, Metal Gear 2, when the franchise was still more platformer than soap opera: a great platformer and overall game.