The Source Material Comics Podcast

In this episode of SNAP Material, hosts Jesse Starcher and Evan Bevins dive into the newest season of Marvel Snap, titled "We Are Venom," which launched on October 1, 2024. The conversation kicks off with a detailed breakdown of the premier card, Agent Venom, a two-cost, four-power card with an intriguing ability: setting the power of all cards in your deck to four. The hosts initially approach the card with skepticism, questioning its synergy with certain archetypes like Cerebro decks. However, as they discuss the potential uses, including synergy with destroy archetypes, Mr. Negative, and Deadpool, they start to see Agent Venom’s broader potential.

The discussion continues with the introduction of other symbiote-themed cards, such as Scream, Misery, and Scorn. Scream, a two-cost, two-power card, sparks a conversation about movement-based strategies, while Misery’s ability to repeat On Reveal effects promises some powerful synergies with characters like Electro and Hood. Jesse and Evan also explore creative combos for Scorn, highlighting its potential in decks that leverage the Collector mechanic.

The episode also touches on Marvel lore, with Evan explaining the backstories of characters like Flash Thompson (Agent Venom) and Scream. As they unpack each new card's mechanics and potential synergies, they bring a mix of strategy and comic history to the table, making this episode a must-listen for fans looking to up their Marvel Snap game while enjoying some deep comic trivia. Finally, they wrap up with a fun segment on upcoming special events and new locations like FEAST and Our Lady of Saints, adding even more flavor to the evolving Marvel Snap meta.

Get ready to dive back into the radical realm of the 90s as the "Unspoken Issues" podcast returns with an electrifying episode featuring hosts Jesse, Evan, and Chris! This time, they're tackling the futuristic world of **X-Men 2099**. Expect heated debates, nostalgic reflections, and in-depth analysis of this cult classic. From the intricate plots crafted by John Francis Moore to the dazzling artwork by Ron Lim and Adam Kubert, our hosts leave no stone unturned. Marvel Snap champion Evan Bevins also shares his battle stories while dissecting the epic showdown between the future mutants and the nefarious forces of 2099.

In this episode, the team explores the allure and lasting impact of **X-Men 2099** on the comic book landscape. They reminisce about their initial reactions to the series, favorite characters, and memorable moments that made this title a standout in the Marvel 2099 universe. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, this episode is packed with insights and anecdotes that will transport you back to the heyday of 90s comics. Tune in for a nostalgic trip that celebrates the legacy of the X-Men in the future and the creative genius behind their stories!

In this episode of SNAP Material, Jesse and Evan dive into their meta thoughts and card unlocks from the September 2024 season of Marvel Snap! Join them as they break down their deck strategies, favorite combos, and surprising victories from last season, offering key insights into how they adapted to the changing game dynamics. Whether it’s Jesse’s innovative Black Swan deck that combines Sandman with one-cost cards or his wild Agatha/Kang/Legion experiment, there's plenty of inspiration for players looking to shake up their own strategies.

Evan also shares his journey to hitting Infinite rank for the fifth time, thanks to his new War Machine deck and creative plays on Brooklyn Bridge. He highlights how Symbiote Spider-Man and War Machine became key players in his approach, allowing him to climb the ranks faster than expected. As the two hosts discuss their most memorable wins (and agonizing losses), you'll get a taste of how to better navigate the meta—and avoid mistakes like playing Kang on Luke's Bar.

Plus, stay tuned as Jesse and Evan reveal their favorite card unlocks and some of the coolest variants they’ve collected this season. From Madame Web to Silver Sable and Scarlet Spider, this episode is packed with game knowledge, deck-building tips, and fun card art appreciation.

In this special Halloween-themed episode of SNAP Material, hosts Jesse and Evan Bevins celebrate spooky season by revealing their Top 5 Creepiest Variants in Marvel Snap! Prepare yourself for a thrilling and visually engaging episode as they dive into some of the most unsettling card art the game has to offer. From disembodied faces to twisted symbiotes, Jesse and Evan go variant by variant, sharing their thoughts on what makes these picks so terrifying—and entertaining.

This episode also marks the first-ever visual top 5 countdown for the podcast! The hosts take their picks from the Marvel Snap database, showcasing the creepy card variants in real-time for YouTube viewers, while the audio listeners get a full breakdown of each card’s haunting features.

Check out the video here (you also get to watch a bonus friendly battle) - https://www.youtube.com/live/TMUkBpUx01M?si=v73kklhugOGXQP6R

Whether you’re a fan of Marvel Snap or just looking to get into the Halloween spirit, this episode is packed with laughs, creepy vibes, and a competitive edge that will keep you hooked from start to finish!

In this exciting new episode of SNAP Material, hosts Jesse and Evan Bevins take you through the highlights of "The Amazing Spider-Season." Packed with game-changing cards and strategic insights, the duo delves into some of the most talked-about characters and moments from this season. Whether you're curious about the powerful Symbiote Spider-Man, the utility of Silver Sable, or the impact of Madame Web, you’ll hear expert analysis and fun discussions that could help elevate your deck to the next level.

But that’s not all! Jesse and Evan also explore new locations and clever card combos that might just surprise you. If you're looking for tips to improve your strategy or a deeper understanding of this season’s meta, this episode has you covered. 

Don’t miss out on the laughs, the lessons, and the latest on Marvel Snap. Whether you're a seasoned player or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights and entertainment.

Marvel and DC recently lost a battle to keep "Super Hero" trademarked.  Here's a quick breakdown on how it happened!

In this episode of Source Material Comics Podcast, hosts Jesse and Evan dive into the fascinating time-travel adventures of Booster Gold, focusing on issues 11 through 14 of the 2008 series. The duo tackles how Booster, the 25th-century hero, deals with his responsibilities to protect the timeline while navigating his relationships with key characters like his sister Michelle, Rip Hunter, and even the infamous Starro.

The episode opens with a lively discussion about the awkward jump between story arcs in the series, which has left Jesse and Evan catching up on skipped issues. They quickly transition into the specifics of the "Vicious Cycle" arc from issues 11 and 12, where Booster is tasked with fixing temporal anomalies caused by a mysterious time-traveler named Wiley Dalbert. As they recount Booster’s face-off with classic Gotham villains like Killer Moth and his undercover mission to preserve the timeline, the hosts explore how even minor adjustments in the timeline can cause huge ripples. With humor and nostalgia, Jesse and Evan highlight the quirks of this lesser-known storyline, including an unexpected trip to the past and the hilarious moment where Booster must don Batman’s costume.

Moving into issues 13 and 14, titled Stars in Your Eyes, the story takes a darker twist with the introduction of Starro, the mind-controlling alien who manipulates time to take over the universe. The episode's tension escalates as Starro infects Rip Hunter, forcing Booster to confront his mentor and risk further damage to the timeline. The hosts discuss the moral dilemma Booster faces in saving only one person during a crisis and how his decisions shape the future of the DC Universe. They also break down action-packed sequences, like Booster's journey to acquire Mr. Freeze’s gun to combat Starro, and his thrilling confrontation with classic heroes under Starro’s control.

This episode is filled with sharp insights, humorous banter, and plenty of comic book trivia as Jesse and Evan reflect on the fun, complexity, and nostalgia of Booster Gold’s time-traveling escapades.

The Terminator: Sector War (1-4)

**Creative Team:**  
- **Writer:** Brian Wood  
- **Artist:** Jeff Stokely  
- **Colorist:** Triona Farrell  
- **Letterer:** Nate Piekos  
- **Publisher:** Dark Horse Comics (May 2019)

In this episode of AI Panels, Alan and Ingrid dive deep into the gritty, neon-soaked world of Terminator: Sector War, a thrilling comic set in the 1984 Terminator universe. The hosts explore the story of Lucy Castro, a rookie cop from the Bronx, who unexpectedly becomes the target of a relentless T-800 Terminator. While Sarah Connor fights for her life on the West Coast, Lucy is thrown into a parallel nightmare in New York City. The episode opens with a detailed breakdown of the comic’s setting—a grimy, dangerous cityscape—and how it mirrors Lucy’s internal struggles as she navigates her personal and professional life, making her journey all the more relatable.

Alan and Ingrid praise the comic’s fresh take on the Terminator mythology, noting how it raises the stakes exponentially by introducing the concept of multiple targets across the country. The duo discusses the depth of Lucy’s character, emphasizing how her worn-down, every-woman persona contrasts with the unstoppable T-800 chasing her. What makes Lucy stand out isn't superhuman strength, but her gritty determination to survive and protect her unborn child, paralleling Sarah Connor’s iconic role as a mother fighting for the future.

The conversation also highlights the comic’s incredible artwork, particularly how the dark, oppressive atmosphere of 1980s New York City becomes a character in itself. The hosts gush over standout scenes, like the terrifying moment when the Terminator attacks Lucy’s apartment and the heart-pounding citywide chase that follows. With clever plot twists, stunning visuals, and a protagonist you can’t help but root for, Terminator: Sector War offers a fresh, thrilling ride through a familiar dystopian universe.

In this episode of AI Panels, we’re diving deep into one of the most bombastic, over-the-top comics of the 90s — "Troll: Once A Hero #1"! Join us as we relive the cigar-chomping antics of Bartholomew J. Troll, a brash, larger-than-life anti-hero created by none other than Rob Liefeld. We’ll break down Troll’s outrageous WWII flashbacks, where he not only coaches a struggling women’s baseball team but also saves the world from Nazi atomic scientists. You’ll hear all about Troll’s mission straight from the White House, his chaotic infiltration behind enemy lines, and his explosive showdown at Mount Rushmore — all while puffing on his signature cigar.

But it’s not all action and heroics! We’ll explore Troll’s cocky personality, his hilarious dynamic with fellow Youngblood teammate Badrock, and how this comic encapsulates the extreme, adrenaline-fueled style of 90s Image Comics. Whether you’re a fan of over-the-top action or just looking for a nostalgic trip back to the heyday of Liefeld’s creations, this episode is for you. So tune in, grab your cigars, and get ready to meet the wildest war hero you’ve probably never heard of — because Troll’s got a story to tell, and it’s one you won’t want to miss!

Get ready for a web-slinging, robot-smashing adventure as we dive into The Amazing Spider-Man: Riot at Robotworld! In this episode, we’re breaking down a unique comic where our favorite wall-crawler faces off against the sinister Ultron in a high-tech theme park gone haywire. But this isn’t just any Spider-Man story—produced in partnership with the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering, this issue blends thrilling superhero action with an inspiring message about STEM careers.

Join us as we explore Spider-Man’s battle against rampaging robots, his showdown with a mechanical T-Rex, and the incredible role engineer Ana Lopez plays in saving the day. We’ll discuss the comic’s best moments, its educational twist, and how it encourages future engineers to step up and be heroes in their own right. Whether you’re a longtime Spidey fan or just curious about this rare comic gem, this episode is packed with action, humor, and insight you won’t want to miss!

Tune in for web-slinging fun and find out how Spider-Man proves that sometimes the biggest superpower is brainpower.