Playstation Plus announced it was changing things up some months ago: game trials, a 3 tier system, and classic games a la a Game Pass like service. More details have been revealed but is it worth the upgrade? Join Logan and TRG's new co-host, Micah, as they dig in.
Timestamps
Reco's & Links
Support TRG
As always, if you like what we do here at TRG, consider supporting the show over on Patreon to net yourself perks like early, uncut access to every new episode! Link to our Patreon is below!
Connect With TRG
You can catch up with TRG by following us on Twitter, Facebook, and join our Discord server for community game nights!
Final Fantasy 6 is one of the greatest JRPGs of all time, released in the SNES era. The game has a strikingly darker and more somber tone than the rest of the games in the series. But is that really what the game is about? Jon Harrison (author of Mastering the Game) sits down to break down the game's themes, hidden easter eggs, and more.
Timestamps
Reco's & Links
Support TRG
As always, if you like what we do here at TRG, consider supporting the show over on Patreon to net yourself perks like early, uncut access to every new episode! Link to our Patreon is below!
Connect With TRG
You can catch up with TRG by following us on Twitter, Facebook, and join our Discord server for community game nights!
Merry Christmas from TRG!
As 2021 draws to a close, for Christmas, we're bringing you our biggest episode of 2021 yet! There is one divisive game that we have yet to cover: The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword! With a brand new release on the Nintendo Switch, it's up to Logan to figure out the differences between the original release and this new HD remaster. Joining Logan is friend of the show, Jonathan Steele, and former Legend of Zelda speed-runner, Derek Smith, to share their frustrations and highlights of this polarizing entry in the Legend of Zelda series.
Housekeeping (5:19)
Mukwano Coffee Promo
Mukwano Coffee is hooking listeners up! Head over to www.mukwanocoffee.com and use code TRG to get 10% off your order!
What We're Playing (6:32)
Topic (32:36)
Non Spoiler Review (37:03)
Spoiler Discussion (55:00)
Patron Thank You's! (1:44:28)
A big thank you to our Patreon supporters for the month of December: Alex Castellanos, Chris Freeman, Christopher Commander, CongratsOn200EpisodesTRG.ThatIsAnImpressiveAccomplishment.HowLongCanIMakeThisUsername.WhoaItJustKeepsGoingAndGoingAndGoingAndGo., Darryl Tavares, David Henderson, David Matthews, Derek Smith, Jake Walker, Jeff Jackson Jr., Jimmy Changa, Josh Broccolo, Kiefer Winborn, Kokorodaki, Luke Strain, Matt Edwards, Matthew “White Chocolate” McDougal, Matthew Millsap, Melvin Benson V, Micah Hendrick, Michael Toller, Nate McKeever, Paige Pinson, Retro Rewind Podcast, Ryan1701e, Sam White, Samuel Colunga, Savon Pena, Third Strongest Mole, Travis, Vincent Yu, WeathermanKeef, Wesley Rea, Xaviel Medina
Recos (1:45:55)
You can catch up with TRG by following us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and join our Discord server for community game nights!
Designing an app is not easy. Releasing it to the public is not easy. So how did Charles Watson come up with, release, and maintain The GG App? Join me as I sit down with Charles and discuss the origins of The GG App, dealing with competition and theft of ideas, to where he sees the app going in the future.
Follow GG
Mukwano Coffee Promo
Mukwano Coffee is hooking listeners up! Head over to www.mukwanocoffee.com and use code TRG to get 10% off your order!
Timestamps
Housekeeping (4:37)
What We're Playing (6:31)
Topic (16:22)
Recos & Closing (53:44)
You can catch up with TRG by following us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and join our Discord server for community game nights!
Metroid Dread is better than Super Metroid. It’s a scientifically verified fact with experts and fact checkers.
Or so we hear. Metroid Dread has finally arrived on the Nintendo Switch, reinvigorating the Metroid fanbase. But does it have what it takes to stand in the halls of the great Metroids before it? We argue that it not only does, but it reigns as the best 2D Metroid in the series. Jonathan Steele (of Episode 202) returns to help discuss this amazing GOTY contender.
Time-Stamps
Housekeeping (5:33)
What We Are Playing (6:55)
Topic (25:10)
Spoiler Territory (46:38)
Reco's! (1:27:22)
Thank you for listening to The Reformed Gamers! We would love to connect with you. Join our Discord using this link or following us on our different social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. You can financially support the show, monthly, on Patreon and get extra perks.
The fourth installment in the long running Final Fantasy series introduced us to a hero who did a great evil. In 1991, Square released a game that was not only fun but had us asking questions about redemption and just how far someone can go before they cannot be forgiven. Hailed as one of the best Final Fantasy games, and JRPGs of all time, join us as we discuss Final Fantasy IV.
Joining this episode is Aki of AkiAndPeach. Head on over to their channel to check out their latest content and catch them live on Twitch!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AkiandPeach
Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/akiandpeach
Housekeeping (6:21)
What We're Playing (7:23)
Topic (31:21)
Reco's! (53:53)
Thank you for listening to The Reformed Gamers! We would love to connect with you. Join our Discord using this link or following us on our different social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. You can financially support the show, monthly, on Patreon and get extra perks.
Terrible - causing or likely to cause terror; sinister.
With Halloween coming up, it's fitting for gamers everywhere to play and revisit some of their favorite scary video games. TRG is doing the same but with a game that may not be on everyone's radar: Metroid Fusion. The Metroid series has always been accustomed to themes of sci-fi, isolation, and even dread. But Metroid Fusion took these themes and cranked the dial up to 11. Friend of the show, Jonathan Steele, joins me on the mic to discuss the 2002 GBA classic, Metroid Fusion.
Housekeeping (8:45)
What Have We Been Playing (10:05)
Topic (26:44)
Patron Thank You's! (1:19:59)
Shoutout to our Patrons who supported TRG in the month of October: AaronElWhite, Alex Castellanos, Andre Swann, Ashley Kronenbitter, Chris Freeman, Christopher Commander, Darryl Tavares, David Henderson, David Matthews, Derek Smith, Isaac.stultz, Jake Walker, Jeff Jackson Jr., Jimmy Changa, JoAnne Monroe, Joe Morgan, Josh Broccolo, Kokorodaki, Luke Strain, Mark Fromme, Matt Edwards, Matthew “White Chocolate” McDougal, Matthew Millsap, Melvin Benson V, Micah Hendrick, Michael Toller, MrButts, Nate McKeever, Paige Pinson, Retro Rewind Podcast, Ryan1701e, Sam White, Samuel Colunga, Savon Pena, Third Strongest Mole, Travis, Vincent Yu, WeathermanKeef, Wesley Rea, Xaviel Medina
Reco's! (1:21:31)
Thank you for listening to The Reformed Gamers! We would love to connect with you. Join our Discord using this link or following us on our different social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. You can financially support the show, monthly, on Patreon and get extra perks.
What if video games could teach you how to be successful in life?
Jon Harrison is a gamer, family man, and man of God. But he is also committed to helping people succeed. But what if we could learn keys to being successful from video games? Join Logan as he sits down with Jon Harrison to discuss his TEDx Talk, his book, Mastering the Game, and a little about his upbringing in a Presbyterian home.
Keep Up w/ Jon Harrison
Housekeeping (4:22)
What Have We Been Playing (5:11)
Jon dives in to Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain for the first time, alongside Kirby's Adventure on the NES to offset the dark, gritty tones of MGS. Logan boots up the indie Metroidvania, Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights.
Topic (14:44)
Here at TRG, we believe that everything has a worldview, including video games. From these worldviews, we're engaging with truths and teachings but the question is: do they line up with Scripture? Jon takes a similar approach to video games in that they do indeed teach us something. But how can what we learn be used for success in the workplace and life in general? Jon's message is so ingrained into his creativity and personality that he is committed to this through his blog and book, Mastering The Game. This is a fascinating conversation that shows video games have a place in today's society for the greater good. Jon has also had an amazing upbringing and we get into discussing religion and faith.
Reco's! (1:01:46)
TRG is giving away a copy of Jon's book, Mastering the Game, to the first listener that contacts TRG on Twitter. Simply tag @TRGPodcast with the message, "Help me Master the Game". This giveaway is exclusive to listeners of the podcast in the United States.
Thank you for listening to The Reformed Gamers! We would love to connect with you. Join our Discord using this link or following us on our different social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. You can financially support the show, monthly, on Patreon and get extra perks.
Colin Moriarty has been working in games media for nearly 20 years. Starting as a technical writer for IGN, Colin worked his way up to editor at IGN. Later, he would leave IGN for Kinda Funny and ultimately starting Last Stand Media, Colin has offered valuable insight into the world of gaming for years. In this episode, Colin shares about how reviewing games works, why Super Mario Sunshine is better than Super Mario 64, the hurdles conservatives face within games media, and more. Colin also shares about how his perspective on God has changed since Fireside Chats, where he released a series of episodes interviewing pastors, mormons, and Christians alike.
If you have not done so already, you can check out Last Stand Media: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt9BGe6i2lJepl-B_zwX6VA
Keep up with Colin on Twitter: https://twitter.com/notaxation
Timestamps
Housekeeping (5:14)
What Have You Been Playing (10:34)
Discussion (21:23)
Thank You, Patrons (1:14:07)
Reco's! (1:15:10)
Thank you for listening to The Reformed Gamers! We would love to connect with you. Join our Discord using this link or following us on our different social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. You can financially support the show, monthly, on Patreon or by purchasing some TRG merch over on our shop!
With Metroid Dread coming this Fall, it’s time for TRG to take a look at some of the Metroid series. We’re kicking things off with the game that is a classic loved by all (unless you have no heart and soul), Super Metroid.
Housekeeping (8:31)
What Have We Been Playing (10:53)
Dan takes to the skies in Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD to discuss if the game is worth the $60 price point. Logan ascends to "Git Gud" status and beats Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.
Topic (25:10)
Originally released for the Super Nintendo in 1994, Super Metroid arrived in to the gaming world and caused major waves. To this day, it's influence can be felt in a variety of games. Join us as we discuss the game's influence, themes, and more.
Reco's (1:07:42)
Follow Dan on Twitter and check out Retro Logic!
Thank you for listening to The Reformed Gamers! We would love to connect with you. Join our Discord using this link or following us on our different social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. You can financially support the show, monthly, on Patreon or by purchasing some TRG merch over on our shop!
It's About Time
The time has finally come for us to discuss one of the greatest JRPGs of all time: Chrono Trigger. Time also saw fit for us to bring Matt Millsap back onto the podcast to help us discuss this timeless classic. Okay, puns aside, we had a great time discussing this classic from the SNES era.
Housekeeping (2:42)
What Have We Been Playing (3:36)
Matt revisits Hyrule in Age of Calamity and grinds for loot in Destiny 2. Adam returns to one of the greatest JRPGs on the Nintendo Switch: Xenoblade Chronicles. Logan continues killing monsters and turning them into hats and boots in Monster Hunter Rise.
What Have We Been Reading (19:10)
Matt discusses Paul David Tripp's "Age of Opportunity". Adam digs into Replanted on the topic of adoption. Logan gets wise in Proverbs.
Topic (31:26)
If you were to ask someone what are the best JRPGs, Chrono Trigger is bound to come up. Published by Square in 1995 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Chrono Trigger landed in the gaming world to critical acclaim, securing itself as a pinnacle of gaming. But what is it about Chrono Trigger that makes it one of the greatest games of all time? That’s what we’ll discuss in this episode.
Patron Thank You's! (1:24:15)
HUGE thank you to our April Patrons who helped us keep cranking out content for the show! Those lovely Patrons are: Alex Castellanos, Andre Swann, Ashley Kronenbitter, Christopher Commander, Darryl Tavares, David B, David Henderson, Derek Smith, Jake Walker, James Barker, Jeff Jackson Jr., Jimmy Changa, JoAnne Monroe, Josh Broccolo, Kokorodaki, Mark Fromme, Matt Edwards, Matthew “White Chocolate” McDougal, Matt Millsap, Melvin Benson V, Micah Hendrick, Michael Toller, MrButts, Nate McKeever, Pastor Shea, Peter Piper, Retro Rewind Podcast, Ryan1701e, Sam White, Samuel Colunga, Third Strongest Mole, Travis, WeathermanKeef, Wesley Rea, Xaviel Medina
Recos! (1:25:58)
Thank you for listening to The Reformed Gamers! We would love to connect with you. Join our Discord using this link or following us on our different social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. You can financially support the show, monthly, on Patreon or by purchasing some TRG merch over on our shop!
The Story Are The Ones We Create
Monster Hunter Rise will soon be here (or already is here depending on when you're listening). This has many wondering, "What makes Monster Hunter so great". Logan brings on resident Monster Hunter aficionado, Zach (admin of the TRG Facebook group), to discuss the Monster Hunter series, what makes it great, the best ones to start with.
Housekeeping (4:27)
What Have We Been Playing (6:09)
Zach secures a PS5 and gets caught up on some of PS4's greatest titles such as Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Persona 5. Logan faces his fears and gets good in Dark Souls 3.
What Have We Been Reading (26:53)
Zach finishes up his seminary career by studying Isaiah 9:2-7. Logan studies the current cultural topic of transgenderism and reads the book Amazon delisted, When Harry Becomes Sally.
Topic (35:39)
Monster Hunter has been around for decades but it wasn't until Monster Hunter World that the mainstream consciousness became aware of the series. As many Switch owners anticipate the release of Monster Hunter Rise, we break down the series' history, why it's great, and share tips for those jumping in for the first time.
Patron Thank You's (1:26:28)
Thank you to our wonderful Deer Patrons who continue to support us over on Patron: Alex Castellanos, Andre Swann, Ashley Kronenbitter, Christopher Commander, Darryl Tavares, David B, David Henderson, Derek Smith, Jake Walker, James Barker, Jeff Jackson Jr., Jimmy Changa, JoAnne Monroe, Josh Broccolo, Kaleb, Kokorodaki, Mark Fromme, Matt Edwards, Matthew “White Chocolate” McDougal, Matt Millsap, Micah Hendrick, Michael Toller, MrButts, Nate McKeever, Pastor Shea, Retro Rewind Podcast, Ryan1701e, Sam White, Samuel Colunga, Third Strongest Mole, WeathermanKeef, Wesley Rea, Xaviel Medina
Reco's! (1:27:48)
Thank you for listening to The Reformed Gamers! We would love to connect with you. Join our Discord using the link above or following us on our different social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Twitch, and Instagram. You can financially support the show, monthly, on Patreon or by purchasing some TRG merch over on our shop!
Seeing Gaming Through A New Lens
As art changes and adapts over the years, new ways of doing traditional art adapts to new mediums. With the rise of photo modes in video games, we now have a new form of photography: gametography. If you have never heard of this phenomenon, then this is an episode you do not want to miss out on!
Housekeeping (3:54)
What Have We Been Playing (7:15)
Micah dives deeper into the Oldest House in Control: Ultimate Edition. Adam catches us up on all the games he's played while away. Logan tests his ninja skills in Cyber Shadow.
What Have We Been Reading (24:38)
Micah catches us up on Gentle & Lowly. Adam discusses walking his growth group through Adopted for Life. Logan smashes idols in We Become What We Worship.
Topic (33:30)
More and more games are implementing Photo Modes. Is this a good thing? Join the crew as they discuss how they got into photo modes, if they think they are a fad, and how they're being implemented well and not so well.
Check out these gametographers online:
Patron Thank Yous! (1:10:37)
Huge thank you to our patrons who ensure we can keep recording: Alex Castellanos, Andre Swann, Ashley Kronenbitter, Christopher Commander, Darryl Tavares, David B, David Henderson, Derek Smith, Jake Walker, James Barker, Jeffrey Jackson, Jimmy Changa, JoAnne Monroe, Josh Broccolo, Kaleb, Kokorodaki, Mark Fromme, Matt Edwards, Matthew “White Chocolate” McDougal, Matt Millsap, Melvin Benson V, Micah Hendrick, Michael Toller, MrButts, Nate McKeever, Pastor Shea, Retro Rewind Podcast, Ryan1701e, Sam White, Samuel Colunga, Third Strongest Mole, WeathermanKeef, Wesley Rea, Xaviel Medina
Recos! (1:13:16)
Thank you for listening to The Reformed Gamers! We would love to connect with you. Join our Discord using the link above or following us on our different social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Twitch, and Instagram. You can financially support the show, monthly, on Patreon or by purchasing some TRG merch over on our shop!
Five Words: Master Chief Collection on Switch
As we head in to 2021, all eyes are on the big 3 of the gaming world. Just what is Xbox planning? Will we see God of War: Raganarok this year? Is this the year that Nintendo finally brings Metroid Prime Trilogy to the Nintendo Switch? We're not sure but we'll guess away anyway!
Housekeeping (2:09)
What Have We Been Playing (3:57)
Micah dives back in to the Oldest House in Control: Ultimate Edition on PS5. Turns out, it is quite the upgrade. Logan institutes the Dark Souls hour and waxes eloquent about how great the games are. He also beat Resident Evil 7 in an afternoon.
What Have We Been Reading (22:04)
Adam speaks through Micah and discusses Dane Ortlund's "Gentle & Lowly". Specifically how God is pleased to help us. Logan discusses a reading from Tim Keller's "Counterfeit Gods" that details how idols bring destruction.
Topic (30:10)
We may not have the gift of prophecy but we are observant. Micah and Logan share their predictions of the things that Xbox, Playstation, and Nintendo will do (or don't do) in 2021. Sorry, Halo: Infinite.
Reco's (1:11:34)
Thank you for listening to The Reformed Gamers! We would love to connect with you. Join our Discord using the link above or following us on our different social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You can financially support the show, monthly, on Patreon or by purchasing some TRG merch over on our shop!