Unofficial Controller Podcast

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Scott takes the helm solo, sharing his current gaming obsessions while providing a Nintendo-heavy update on the latest releases and announcements. Without the usual supervision of his co-hosts, he embraces the opportunity to dive deep into his gaming passions and personal stories.

• Dead by Daylight dominates Scott's gaming time with its new Thai folklore update featuring an overpowered killer
• Expanding his Switch 2 collection with recent purchases of Hogwarts Legacy and Star Wars Outlaws
• Yakuza Zero on Switch proving to be an engaging experience that keeps pulling him back
• Nintendo Direct announcements including Mario Galaxy 1 & 2 games and a new Super Mario Galaxy movie for 2026
• Upcoming Halloween game from Ilphonic following similar gameplay to Friday the 13th and Dead by Daylight
• PlayStation releasing new Pulse Elevate speakers with AI technology for PS5 and Portal
• Nintendo Switch Online adds two GBA classics: Klonoa Empire of Dreams and Mr. Driller 2
• Upcoming Play Expo Blackpool event - a "stag do for gamers" with arcade cabinets, beer, and gaming excitement

Join our Discord community! The link is in the show notes. We have monthly competitions, gaming discussions, and a place to connect with other members of the UCP community.

Support the show

Join our fantastic discord

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Cheers gamers!

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Name read out on every show

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A single item of yearly limited art merch

$8

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

$10 

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

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Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. 

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Flying solo this week, I take you on a journey through the strange territory of being a "gaming widower" – that peculiar state where your console has been commandeered by a loved one. With my wife happily immersed in Persona 5's stylish world and my daughter off to university, I've found myself reconnecting with forgotten corners of my gaming collection.

My No Man's Sky adventures took an unexpected turn as I ventured into the expedition system for the first time. What started as curiosity about the new Corvette ship became a fascinating lesson in how differently the game can be experienced. After 15 hours of collecting parts and exploring waypoints, I discovered the bittersweet truth about expeditions – you can't bring everything back to your main save. And don't get me started on what happens when you reach the galactic center! Being kicked back to the edge of the universe with all your technology damaged feels like the universe laughing at your accomplishments.

The gaming industry continues its relentless evolution with some concerning developments. Silent Hill F leaks threaten to spoil one of the year's most anticipated horror experiences, while Nintendo's decision to outsource customer support raises questions about the company's famed quality standards. Meanwhile, Xbox's price increases reflect a troubling trend where consumers bear the full brunt of economic challenges.

These industry shifts make our gaming community even more valuable. Whether you're a longtime listener or just discovering us, the Discord server offers a sanctuary where genuine connections form around our shared passion. I see your conversations when you think I'm not looking, and nothing makes me prouder than watching this community thrive.

What gaming experiences have kept you company during life's transitions? Join the conversation and remember – there's nothing wrong with being given the unofficial controller. It's what you do with it that counts.

Support the show

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Cheers gamers!

Subscription Tiers

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Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

$5

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

$8

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

$10 

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

Yearly art merch t-shirt

Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. 

Send us Fan Mail

When your gaming partner discovers Persona, what's a dedicated gamer to do? This week, George flies solo on the Unofficial Controller Podcast as he navigates life as a "gaming widower" while his partner Rachel completes her Persona 4 journey.

Rediscovery becomes the theme as George dusts off forgotten hardware – from his trusty PlayStation Vita to experimenting with PSP adapters that bring old tech into the modern USB-C era. His gaming adventures take him through Iconoclasts, a watercolor-esque MLB 14, and a somewhat disappointing Oregon Trail revival that failed to capture the magic of the original.

The Corvette update for No Man's Sky reignites George's passion for the nearly decade-old game, pushing him toward the elusive center of the universe – a destination surprisingly few players ever reach. His technical journey optimizing the PlayStation Portal experience offers valuable insights for remote gaming enthusiasts battling finicky connections and Victorian-era copper wires.

An eye-opening analysis of PlayStation's lifetime sales data reveals fascinating disconnects between units sold and revenue generated. How did Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas become the fourth best-selling PlayStation game by units while only ranking ninth in revenue? Why is Call of Duty: Modern Warfare a financial juggernaut despite fewer sales than its contemporaries? These rankings challenge our assumptions about gaming's biggest successes.

Nintendo fans will appreciate the comprehensive breakdown of September's Nintendo Direct, covering everything from Mario Galaxy 1 & 2 to Final Fantasy VII Remake Integrate coming to both Switch generations. Even the peculiar case of Virtual Boy games arriving on Switch (with questionably expensive accessories) gets the full UCP treatment.

Whether you're managing gaming time with a partner, curious about revitalizing old gaming hardware, or just want company on your solo gaming journey, this episode offers both practical insights and the warm conversational style that keeps listeners coming back to the Unofficial Controller Podcast.

Support the show

Join our fantastic discord

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If link has expired then message us at [email protected]

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Cheers gamers!

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$3

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

$5

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

$8

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

$10 

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

Yearly art merch t-shirt

Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. 

Send us Fan Mail

Switch 2's surprising power, the truth behind game key cards, and the subscription model debate take center stage in this week's gaming deep dive.

Gaming's technological frontiers are expanding before our eyes, and nowhere is this more evident than with Nintendo's Switch 2. We explore why games like Star Wars Outlaws and Cyberpunk 2077 running on this pocket-sized powerhouse feel like "witchcraft" to longtime gamers. The Switch 2's controversial game key card system isn't just about cost-cutting – it's enabling AAA experiences that wouldn't be possible with traditional cartridges, bringing Nintendo back into the multiplatform conversation in ways the original Switch could only dream of.

Between farming virtual vegetables in Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar and traversing the cosmos in No Man's Sky's Corvette update, we discover how these digital escapes continue to evolve with meaningful innovations. The bazaar system in Story of Seasons transforms the farming sim genre with its weekly market mechanics, while No Man's Sky now lets you walk around inside your own customizable starship – a childhood dream realized through modern gaming tech.

The gaming business landscape continues its dramatic transformation too. Ex-Bethesda boss Pete Hines drops truth bombs about subscription services like Game Pass, calling subscriptions "a new four-letter word" and highlighting the tension these models create for content creators. His observations spark our examination of how these services might be reshaping development priorities and potentially compromising creative visions.

Whether you're debating the value proposition of Indiana Jones DLC, contemplating the future of physical game stores, or wondering if that Switch 2 version of your favorite game is worth the upgrade, this episode navigates gaming's most fascinating crossroads. Join us for a conversation that celebrates what we love about games while questioning where the industry is heading.

What games are filling your backlog this week? Let us know in the comments or join our Discord community to continue the conversation!

Support the show

Join our fantastic discord

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If link has expired then message us at [email protected]

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Cheers gamers!

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Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

$5

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

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A single item of yearly limited art merch

$8

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

$10 

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

Yearly art merch t-shirt

Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. 

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What happens when a gaming podcast host is left to his own devices? You get a delightfully chaotic journey through the gaming universe! In this solo adventure, George takes listeners on a meandering exploration of his current gaming obsessions, industry news, and the bizarre thoughts that populate a gamer's mind when there's no co-host to rein them in.

The journey begins with No Man's Sky's exciting new Corvette update, which finally lets players construct and walk around their own customizable spaceships—a dream feature that's been years in the making. Though it requires significant in-game currency to fully realize, the potential for creating your personal space sanctuary is tantalizing. Meanwhile, Persona 4 continues to captivate with its unique blend of dungeon-crawling and social simulation, featuring some of gaming's most bizarre enemy designs (including a baby wrapped in a black bag with flower petals—don't try this cosplay at home).

On the news front, we explore Attic Archive's collection of 13 quirky classic games from the 1980s coming to modern consoles, Stardew Valley's upcoming 1.7 update (proving creator Eric Barone's remarkable dedication to his player community), and how Gears of War Reloaded's cross-platform success signals the continued dissolution of traditional console war boundaries.

Between gaming discussions, George offers candid reflections on five years of podcasting, expressing genuine gratitude to the UCP community while maintaining the show's trademark humor. Whether you're a longtime listener or first-time visitor to this gaming sanctuary, this episode captures the passion, quirks, and community spirit that make gaming culture so uniquely engaging.

Join our Discord community to continue the conversation, share your gaming adventures, and maybe even win some prizes in our monthly challenges. The controller may be unofficial, but the gaming love is absolutely genuine.

Support the show

Join our fantastic discord

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If link has expired then message us at [email protected]

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Cheers gamers!

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Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

$5

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

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A single item of yearly limited art merch

$8

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

$10 

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

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A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

Yearly art merch t-shirt

Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. 

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Fresh from wedding bells and honeymoon bliss, George makes his triumphant return to the Unofficial Controller Podcast, reuniting with Scott for episode 282. The reunion sparkles with their trademark banter as Scott reveals his complete obsession with Harvestella – a game he can't stop praising for its beautiful music, compelling storylines, and perfect balance of farming simulation and action JRPG elements.

George shares his gaming adventures during his time away, having fallen deep into The Witcher 3 on his Nintendo Switch 2. He and his new wife Rachel completed Lord of the Rings: The Third Age (with its bizarrely abrupt ending) and have now embarked on Persona 4 Golden together – a game that coincidentally features in the news segment as it joins Xbox Game Pass.

The duo dives into several exciting gaming developments, including the rumor that Starfield might be coming to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. Despite their lukewarm experiences with the game on Xbox, both hosts seem intrigued by the possibility of playing it in handheld mode. They also discuss Nintendo's 45-minute Direct for Kirby Air Ride, which Scott enthusiastically describes as mechanically distinct from Mario Kart with its unique character abilities and drift mechanics.

For simulation fans, the official announcement of American Truck Simulator and Euro Truck Simulator 2 coming to PS5 represents a long-awaited console debut for these PC staples. As George humorously puts it, this marks the "PCification" of consoles, bringing traditionally desk-bound gaming experiences to the living room TV.

Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the show, this episode perfectly captures what makes the Unofficial Controller Podcast special – genuine gaming passion mixed with friendship and humor. Subscribe now to join George and Scott on their weekly gaming adventures!

Support the show

Join our fantastic discord

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Cheers gamers!

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Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

$5

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

$8

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

$10 

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

Yearly art merch t-shirt

Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. 

Send us Fan Mail

The gaming gauntlet has been thrown down! In our first-ever subscriber quiz special, Digital Monkery challenges five UCP community members to prove their gaming knowledge through 30 brain-teasing questions that span decades of video game history.

From counting buttons on a PS1 controller to naming the ghosts in Pac-Man, our contestants battle through increasingly difficult trivia. The stakes? A custom-made Cards Against UCP game for the winner, with gaming vouchers for the runners-up. Witness the triumph and frustration as participants dig deep into their gaming memories, occasionally punctuated by Luigi's colorful Italian outbursts when answers prove elusive.

Beyond the competitive quiz atmosphere, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into our subscriber community. Between questions and after the final scores are tallied, each participant shares what they've been playing recently – from Dead Space to Assassin's Creed Shadows, Huntdown to Cattle Country. These personal gaming journeys highlight the diverse interests that unite our community while showcasing the genuine connections formed through shared passion.

Want to test your own gaming knowledge? Play along at home and see how you measure up against our contestants! Then join our Discord community where these events are planned and where you might participate in future subscriber specials. Contact us at [email protected] to learn how you can become part of this growing gaming family.

Support the show

Join our fantastic discord

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If link has expired then message us at [email protected]

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Cheers gamers!

Subscription Tiers

$3

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

$5

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

$8

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

$10 

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

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Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. 

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Step into the heart of gaming culture with Timeless 25, Liverpool's premier gaming convention that tears down the barriers between fans and their heroes. In this in-depth conversation with event organizer Maggs, we explore how this beloved community gathering has evolved into the ultimate celebration of gaming passion.

Maggs reveals the exciting new venue spanning multiple connected spaces—Kane's Brewery arcade with its three floors of free-to-play games, and the adjoining Punch Tarmys pub transformed into exhibition halls and performance spaces. This expanded setting addresses previous feedback while maintaining the intimate, accessible atmosphere that makes Timeless truly special.

The lineup this year reads like a who's who of gaming personalities: WhatCulture Gaming team members, Stuart Ashen hosting panels, Slopes Game Room returning with his wildly popular quiz, and the creators of Tomb Raider sharing behind-the-scenes stories of the iconic franchise. The content creator panel, hosted by Big Fuzzy Yak, brings together diverse voices including Studio 42's Tommy and disability advocate One-Handed Gamer.

What distinguishes Timeless from other conventions is its commitment to inclusivity. With improved accessibility features, quiet spaces for those who need sensory breaks, and activities spanning all age ranges, everyone feels welcome. The event stretches into the evening with special competitions, arcade tournaments, and entertainment until around midnight.

For just £20 (or £17 with code UCP25), attendees gain access to tournaments, exhibitions, panels, free arcade games, and the opportunity to meet and chat with gaming celebrities in an environment where no VIP ropes separate fans from their heroes. As Maggs puts it: "This isn't just a festival of gaming—it's a festival of friendship."

Whether you're competing in the Just Dance competition, browsing rare collectibles, trying indie game demos, or simply connecting with fellow gamers, Timeless 25 offers an authentic celebration of gaming culture that puts community first. Join us on August 13th in Liverpool for an unforgettable day where gaming's past, present, and future come together.

Support the show

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Cheers gamers!

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Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

$5

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

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A single item of yearly limited art merch

$8

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

$10 

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

Yearly art merch t-shirt

Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. 

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In this episode, Scott and RGT are joined by returning guest Seb to dive into a week filled with gaming disappointments and surprising industry moves. We kick things off with Scott's adventures at the Nottingham Video Games Expo, where he not only scored a boxed Sega Game Gear carry case but also connected face-to-face with a valued member of our Discord community – proving once again that gaming brings people together in meaningful ways.

The gaming discussion heats up as Scott reveals his newfound addiction to Harvestella on Switch 2, a game that beautifully blends farming simulation with rich JRPG elements. RGT shares his completion of Singularity, a hidden PS3 gem with time-manipulation mechanics reminiscent of BioShock, while continuing his cozy farm life in Cattle Country. Seb introduces us to Dispatch, an innovative strategy game where you manage a chaotic team of superheroes responding to emergencies – a title that's already captured his imagination from just the demo.

Our news segment tackles several major stories, including the troubling launch of Tales of the Shire, which received a devastating 4/10 review from Nintendo Life due to countless bugs and crashes – another cautionary tale of rushed development. We also discuss rumors of an imminent Nintendo Direct, the upcoming Silent Hill F trailer reveal at Gamescom, and Ubisoft's surprising cancellation of Star Wars Outlaws 2 despite positive player reception. The industry's pricing strategies come under scrutiny as Xbox walks back an $80 price point for The Outer Worlds 2 while Nintendo maintains premium pricing for its titles.

Whether you're a Nintendo enthusiast, a horror game fan, or someone keeping tabs on the industry's business practices, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives on gaming's current landscape. Join our Discord community to participate in our challenge events, game discussions, and connect with fellow passionate gamers who bring these conversations to life.

Support the show

Join our fantastic discord

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Cheers gamers!

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Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

$5

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

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A single item of yearly limited art merch

$8

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

$10 

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

Yearly art merch t-shirt

Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. 

Send us Fan Mail

Step into the world of gaming with Scott and RGT as they hold down the fort while George enjoys his honeymoon! This week's episode is bursting with unexpected gaming gems and headline-making industry news that will have you reaching for your wallet.

Ever wondered what it would be like if Red Dead Redemption and Stardew Valley had a baby? Look no further than Cattle Country, a pixel-art farming simulator set in 1891 that has completely captivated RGT. Starting with nothing but a tent, you'll grow crops, brew beer, and even fight off bandits with your trusty revolver. It's a refreshing take on the farming sim genre that doesn't overwhelm players with complexity while still offering depth and engagement.

The hosts also dive into their experiences with Donkey Kong Bonanza, praising its destructible environments and creative level design, while Scott shares his renewed appreciation for Harvestella on the Switch 2, noting significant performance improvements that make the JRPG/farming hybrid shine in its new home.

Horror fans will be thrilled by the announcement of a new Hellraiser game coming to PS5, featuring the original Pinhead actor Doug Bradley and a story guided by creator Clive Barker himself. Plus, with massive summer sales happening on both Nintendo eShop and Xbox, Scott meticulously breaks down the best deals, including 90% off Little Nightmares 2 and 85% off the award-winning Spiritfarer.

Whether you're a dedicated Nintendo fan, a budget-conscious gamer looking for deals, or simply curious about unique indie experiences, this episode delivers gaming insights that will expand your playlist and potentially save you serious money. Subscribe now, join our Discord community, and don't forget about our subscriber Zoom meetup on August 2nd featuring Cards Against UCP as the grand prize!

Support the show

Join our fantastic discord

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If link has expired then message us at [email protected]

or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.

Cheers gamers!

Subscription Tiers

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Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

$5

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

$8

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

$10 

Name read out on every show

Access to unglorious chat section of discord

Quarterly Zoom meet up

A single item of yearly limited art merch

Yearly art merch mug

Yearly art merch t-shirt

Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going.