Avsnitt

  • Our heroes confront Summer Game Fest, questions of manners when talking to swords, and another trip to the Omegaverse.

    Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

    Watch episodes with full video on YouTube

    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    Polka dot“I have to stay alive and record this podcast before I die!”PAXReturn of Monkey IslandVideo Game History FoundationGame Boy CameraAlexey PajitnovSonic the Hedgehog 2Dragon Age seriesSolasThedasIron BullCullen RutherfordGame Boy AdvanceXeno CrisisKingdom Hearts: Chain of MemoriesSpyro 2: Season of FlameJurassic Park III: The DNA Factor

    1: What did you think of the PlayStation State of Play? (05:19)

    PlayStation State of PlayGod of War: LaufeyKemuri: Hunt the UnseenReport: Payment for some TheGamer staff now tied to per-article sessionsGitaroo ManGod of War: RagnarökJack QuaidBeauty and the Beast (1991)Dungeons & DragonsGhostwire: TokyoHairy WolverineKratosTomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis studio have used “AI-assisted tools” during developmentBubsy

    2: Why do we do these and who are they for? (16:47)

    P.N.04Day of the DevsGDC

    3: If you could insert one sentence into Geoff Keighley’s teleprompter at Summer Game Fest this year, what would it be? (21:10)

    Geoff KeighleyPongFree PalestineBlack Lives MatterTrans Rights Are Human RightsKermit the FrogRainbow ConnectionCostco Connection

    4: CaptainNAC asks, which game would you pick as the secret handle to open a hidden passageway behind a false wall? (26:45)

    Sega GenesisNCAA FootballColumnsColumns III: Revenge of ColumnsNBA 2K19Coach K College BasketballSega CDReady Player OneNCAA: Road to the Final FourNCAA Final Four Basketball

    5: What would you guess are the first five mods a community typically makes for a video game? (35:27)

    6-7007: First LightWorld of WarCraftHDRSpecial KShrekThomas the Tank EngineMortal Kombat

    6: What is the John Waters’ Pink Flamingos (1972) of video games? (40:03)

    John WatersPink Flamingos (1972)HorsesDivineYoko TaroDrakengard 3MouthwashingDanganronpa seriesThe Godfather IIScarface: The World Is Yours

    Send a one minute or less .mp3 or .wav of yourself explaining your choice for the John Waters’ Pink Flamingos of Video Games (or why The Godfather Part II might have been advertised using a pink flamingo) to [email protected] and maybe we’ll play it on air in a future episode!

    LIGHTNING ROUND: Omegaversus (44:42)

    Omegaverse

    Recommendations and Outro (01:11:34):

    Brandon: Read Only Memo, Dirty Kopz (2001)Frank: The Video Game History Hour Ep. 156 - Read Only MemoAsh: Find something you like on Archive of Our Own and leave a comment and kudos on something you like

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  • Podcaster and Summer Games Fest host Lucy James joins the panel to cover Hideo Kojima’s AI use, playing as a cat in games, and GamemasterAnthony’s pride parade.

    Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, Brandon Sheffield, and Lucy James. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

    Watch episodes with full video on YouTube

    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    LasikBody Worlds“Whoever reads this, please enter my grave. I will let you have my stretching, shrinking keepsake.”Star TrekHeathcliff)Ricky HendersonNBA JamSpace Jam (1996)Yosemite SamFoghorn LeghornThe Unauthorized Bash Brothers ExperienceMark McGwireJose Conseco

    1: What’s the most ludicrous video game press release you’ve ever seen? (05:28)

    Lucy James: this is the worst email I have ever receivedFing-LongerPornhubOverwatchEarthBoundWorld of Tanks

    2: How is AI viewed in Japanese development? (11:27)

    Hideo Kojima’s AI Prada video prompts outcry from gamers

    3: What’s your favorite thing to be in a video game? (14:25)

    The Aristocats - Ev’rybody Wants To Be a CatStrayLittle Kitty, Big CityTenchu seriesLEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark KnightCatwomanTraveller’s TalesSonic RVeepBatmanTinykinWorld of WarCraftTroll (WarCraft race)TachikomaKITTCars (2006))Disney·Pixar Cars

    4: How would you explain Minecraft to Zohran Mamdani? (20:41)

    Zohran MamdaniMinecraftBoris JohnsonSadiq KhanMeijerA Minecraft Movie (2025)Jack BlackBubsy)The video of a zombie in a mine cart (thanks to Sandwich Jones for finding this for me)DemonschoolPathologic 2Pac-Man 2: The New AdventuresMarvel Spider-ManCities: SkylinesTropicoSid Meier’s Civilization seriesDisco ElysiumTim WalzCrazy Taxi

    5: Catherine asks, which video game characters would you expect to show up at Pride? (28:10)

    GamemasterAnthonyKratos)David JaffeGiannis AntetokounmpoGod of War (2018)LokiFreyjaBaldrBayonetta)Leon S. KennedyLiza MinnelliLisa VanderpumpPrincess PeachPrincess DaisyWaluigiChar AznableChris RedfieldSylvandoDragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive AgeFinal Fantasy XVNoctis Lucis Caelum

    6: What lines from or aspects of video games have permeated your real life? (34:39)

    PortalThe SimsShenmueRyo HazukiDragon Age seriesChant of LightKlingonDisaster ReportDeltaruneSuper Mario seriesThe Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)Audio AtrocitiesDishonoredFableBatman: Arkham seriesBruce TimmPaul DiniMiddle-earth: Shadow of MordorResident Evil: VillageResident Evil 4

    7: What is The Mandalorian and Grogu (2026) of video games? (43:43)

    The Mandalorian and Grogu (2026)The MandalorianAndorAssassin’s Creed Black Flag ResyncedAliens: Colonial MarinesAlien: IsolationFatal Fury: City of the WolvesAsteroids

    LIGHTNING ROUND: OC Remix (49:09)

    Recommendations and Outro (01:07:17):

    Frank: LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight,Brandon: Vote for gov’nah if you’re Californian, Sega-16’s Mike Fischer interview, the first and second Abashiri Prison movies but not the third oneAsh: Touch grassLucy: Widow’s Bay, lookingfor.game

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  • Editor and media critic Esper Quinn joins Ash and Brandon in answering more questions from the insert credit forum.

    Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Ash Parrish, Brandon Sheffield, and Esper Quinn. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

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    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    For All Mankind“Ryu ga gotoku the polls”forums.insertcredit.comInsert Credit Flavored Questions that are too stupid for the Dirtbag

    1: marurun asks, who is the most pointlessly bland fighting game character? Moreso than “guy in a karate gi”. (03:17)

    DivekickGoiken Muyou: Anarchy in the NipponFighting VipersComix ZoneStreets of Rage seriesSuper Smash Bros. seriesFire Emblem series

    2: ana asks, what’s the most common hidden gem? (05:55)

    RupeeCelesteCult of the LambDeltaruneNiGHTS into Dreams…Radiant SilvergunPanzer DragoonLegend of Zelda: Majora’s MaskLegend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks

    3: yeso asks, has anyone ever cried at one of the Leisure Suit Larry death scenes? (07:48)

    Leisure Suit Larry seriesOmegaverseRon JeremyPamela AndersonCarmen ElektraMaxim

    4: SteveWithaB asks, is it time to retire the term “gamer”? (11:06)

    Call of Duty seriesHalo series

    5: Tradegood asks, if Xbox is Mountain Dew and Doritos, and Nintendo is Coca-Cola and Pringles, what is Sony? (13:40)

    XboxMountain DewDoritosNintendoCoca-ColaPringlesSonyPepsiLay’sBlack & MildBluntBongCandy cigaretteDr PepperSegaJaguarRC ColaKonamiAmigaDreamcastRamuneHamburgerFrench fries

    6: Death_Strandicoot asks, who should be the first recipient of the Nobel Prize for Video Games? (16:16)

    The HagueGeoff KeighleyDavid CageShigeru MiyamotoMarioPac-ManPong

    7: Mnemogenic asks, how would you adapt a 10 yen game into a big budget AAA video game? (18:24)

    10 yen coinCall of Ponchy : Mahjong WarfareFroggerDragon QuestWeb3

    8: Taliesin_Merlin asks, design an Amy Rose video game based on one of the following novel premises. (20:41)

    The Girl with the Dragon TattooI, RobotThe Name of the RoseI, ClaudiusI, Tonya (2017)The Name of the Rose (1986)The Murder of Sonic the HedgehogSonic and the Black KnightLollipop Chainsaw

    9: Tom asks, what are the seven basic game genres? (23:33)

    The Seven Basic Plots

    10: mtvcribs asks, what happened to thong-era final fantasy (26:19)

    Final Fantasy X-2Final Fantasy XIIITetsuya NomuraFinal Fantasy XVCindy AurumFinal Fantasy XIV OnlineFinal Fantasy XVIStranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy OriginClive RosfieldJon SnowGame of Thrones

    11: mack41 asks, is Google Maps cop warning alert a strand game? (29:07)

    Death StrandingDark Souls series

    12: beets asks, if you were going to make a table from videogame hardware, what would you use? (30:53)

    BattleTech podXbox OnePlayStation 2Logan Paul

    13: rootfifthoctave asks, is sega the company that gets the most “[not-sega game] feels like a [sega] game” comments spoken about it? (32:24)

    SoulslikeTreasureUbisoftAssassin’s Creed seriesStardew Valley

    14: KingTubb asks, how often do the following characters change their bed sheets: (35:11)

    Solid SnakeNaked SnakeVenom SnakeMetal Gear Solid V: The Phantom PainJack BauerLiquid SnakeRaidenPrincess PeachHeavy RainHarvest Moon seriesDeadly Premonition

    15: PassionQuotient asks, what’s the video game equivalent of reading all of Shakespeare? What about James Joyce? (38:26)

    William ShakespeareJames JoyceWarioWare seriesDragon Quest seriesFinal Fantasy seriesGeoffrey ChaucerKingdom Hearts seriesDuneAtari 2600

    16: Kiki asks, what’s Jollibee? (41:07)

    JollibeeJollibee x FINAL FANTASY XIV Collaboration CampaignWatch_Dogs 2

    17: YellerDog asks, what game is the most fun with the worst graphics? What game is the least fun with the best graphics? (42:58)

    Dwarf FortressRogueMindsEyeGrand Theft Auto VIr/GamingLeaksAndRumours

    18: adashtra asks, What is the “telling your puppy to stop biting your feet, but he’s so dang cute you don’t wanna yell at him” of video games? (45:20)

    Animal Crossing series

    LIGHTNING ROUND: Arcade of Our Own (48:58)

    Recommendations and Outro (01:05:42):

    Brandon: some of The Magnificent Seven sequels but not others, Possession (1981), microchip your animalsAsh: Is God Is (2026)Esper: Esper Quinn’s Top 10 Hottest Games of 2025, Witch Hat Atelier, Absolute Wonder Woman, Fantastic Four, The Moon & Serpent Bumper Book of MagicJaffe: Read Berserk at work

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  • The finest minds in video games discuss flying in games, retaining players over the course of a series, and self-lubricating anuses.

    Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

    Watch episodes with full video on YouTube

    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    ZencastrPower RangersSailor Scouts“Attention street operators! If you’re not operating Mr. Do!‘s Castle you don’t want to make money!”Mr. Do!MuensterSwissMozzarellaGoatCheddarParmesanMacaroni andChipotle Mexican GrillLa TurHumboldt FogTillamookCottageChocolate syrup

    1: How do you make flight feel good? (05:48)

    Ace Combat 5: The Unsung WarEarth Defense Force seriesPanzer DragoonWing CapSteel BattalionDiamond VinceSkyGunnerSuperman 64

    2: What makes a good shop theme? (10:22)

    MuzakQVCEarthbound - Buy Something Will Ya!Wii Shop ThemeKmartPersona 5 - Weapons ShopDemonschool - ShoppingJeopardy!YoshiSuper Mario WorldiMUSESuper Mario Bros.Super Mario Bros. 2

    3: What are good ways games can reward you for playing the previous entry in a series? (16:48)

    BioWareSuikoden seriesYakuza seriesBob UtsunomiyaMass Effect seriesSonic & KnucklesMetal Gear Solid seriesResident Evil seriesFinal Fantasy VII Remake seriesSilent Hill seriesCrisis Core: Final Fantasy VIINier series

    4: How could you “walk the room” giving a talk at a video game conference? (21:29)

    GDCOmegaverseAlpha and beta maleMpregSupernaturalDark AngelPon Farr

    5: Yeso asks, what is the soda vs. pop of video games? (30:41)

    Soft drinkSegaRyuThe Legend of KageNinja GaidenNintendo Entertainment SystemFinal Fantasy VITidusChocoboMortal Kombat seriesMidway GamesToasty!Cow ClickerMystery Science Theater 3000Drew CareyHydrocity ZoneSonic the Hedgehog seriesThe Boss Baby (2017)City EscapeGDQ

    6: What’s the difference between a director and a lead designer in video games? (37:33)

    7: What stats would you add to fighting game character bios? (40:14)

    Street Fighter IIMaiden and married namesQuentin TarantinoGuileBlankaMyspaceUptown GirlStar SearchMega Man seriesPokemon series

    LIGHTNING ROUND: 21 Questions (45:51)

    Recommendations and Outro (01:06:31):

    Brandon: You can make watermelon gazpacho out of unripe or unflavorful watermelons, Alyzea, Dead Mountaineer’s Hotel (1979), Convoy Busters (1978), Mona KimuraFrank: The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (2026) if you want to just delete 2 hours of your life

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  • Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield cover GameStop making an offer for eBay, the hotness of the new StarFox designs, and dead rabbids.

    Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

    Watch episodes with full video on YouTube

    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    Nail BatFinal Fantasy VIIDie Hard (1988)Gotham CityJean-Paul Valley“Shilly-shally.”OreoHydroxTurboGrafx-16

    1: GameStop isn’t gonna buy eBay, right? (08:56)

    GameStopeBayGameStop makes unsolicited bid to acquire online auction giant eBay for $56BGameStop CEO Ryan Cohen banned from eBay after takeover bid stuntGame InformerSumo FighterMega Man 7Video Game History FoundationVintage Video Game Magazine Monthly SubscriptionFuncoLandFunkoRelootedBram Stoker’s DraculaIndiana Jones

    2: What are the level 1 magic spells you want to make available to a player in a game? (14:00)

    Hang on. Is Indiana Jones’s hat a fedora?

    Indiana Jones: His Hats Explained

    Okay back to Question 2.

    Metroidvania

    3: Are the Star Fox characters hotter now or not? (18:41)

    Nintendo announces new Star Fox for Nintendo Switch 2The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (2026)Falco LombardiGarrus VakarianMass Effect seriesVince LombardiDoug LombardiNintendo confirms destruction of original Star Fox puppetsThe Amazing Digital CircusFive Nights at Freddy’sKermit the FrogKrystalWaluigiStar Fox 64Final Fantasy VII: RemakeSonic AdventureRouge the Bat

    4: Write five clues for a Jeopardy! video game category (24:18)

    Jeopardy!Pac-ManDonkey KongMega ManMario MarioLuigi MarioMinecraft StevePewDiePieNinjaBonkJ.J. & JeffHideo Kojima

    5: LeFish asks, what is the best French thing in video games, and what is the best fish? (28:57)

    David CageFreddi Fish seriesClair Obscur: Expedition 33UbisoftBioWare MontrealDragon Age seriesAnother WorldRabbidsCaptain AhabSuper Mario WorldSeamanLeviathanPutt-Putt seriesJames Pond series

    6: What is a more useful aggregation tool: Metacritic, which averages scores, or Rotten Tomatoes, which averages positive vs. negative reviews? (33:53)

    MetacriticRotten TomatoesStar Wars seriesIMDb

    7: What is the Pee-wee’s Big Adventure (1985) of video games? (37:10)

    Pee-wee’s Big Adventure (1985)The GroundlingsConker’s Bad Fur DayDiddy Kong RacingPee-wee’s PlayhousePee-wee HermanBayonettaTim BurtonThe Pee-wee Herman ShowPlatinumGamesDonkey Kong CountryTiptupDrumstickWarioWarioWare seriesTingleFreshly-Picked Tingle’s Rosy RupeelandIrozuki Tincle no Koi no Balloon TripThe Frog for Whom the Bell Tolls

    LIGHTNING ROUND: User Reviews (43:14)

    Credit Corner (56:54)

    Recommendations and Outro (57:19):

    Brandon: The Sting (1973), Get Carter (1971)Frank: Rollick N’ RollAsh: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000), Love and Deepspace

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  • Our heroes share thoughts on twenty years of achievements, developers responding to player feedback, and whether nail bats count as blunt weapons.

    Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman, episode art by Gilbert Smith.

    Watch episodes with full video on YouTube

    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    Busby BerkeleyBubsyFatty Arbuckle“You’re like free pizza at an anime convention. She can smell you. And she wants to consume you.”Video Game History Foundation

    1: When has the appeal of a popular game eluded you? (05:24)

    Tomodachi Life: Living the DreamMad LibsThe Sims seriesHank HillBocchiCards Against HumanityDungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023)Crimson DesertWorld of WarCraftFinal Fantasy XIVYakuza seriesShenmue seriesThe Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

    Credit Report (11:40)

    SegaTaitoThe Ninja KidsRaz KarcyOverBloodDiscordMy Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic

    2: How have trophies and achievements impacted video games over the past 20 years? (13:39)

    Xbox 360SiegfriedXLeft 4 Dead

    3: Let’s talk about that MindsEye DLC (20:21)

    MindsEyePolygon: I played the MindsEye DLC that was supposed to expose ‘sabotage’ and just got a painfully bad missionTommy WiseauThe Room (2003)Grand Theft Auto seriesThe Fall of Communism as Seen in Gay Pornography (1998)

    4: Give me your dream video game blunt rotation (which is to say, three items to cycle through as blunt weapons in a video game) (25:31)

    Nail BatMaceIce cream sandwichEarthBoundR.B.I. Baseball seriesDragon Age: InquisitionWedge of DestinyUndercover CopsThe Boon of the Spoon

    5: Issac asks, what makes a good sick game? (32:47)

    The Violence Island Gacha Gauntlet #1Titanium CourtBejeweledPuzzle QuestThe Talos PrinciplePortalDragon Quest seriesMetal Gear Solid 3: Snake EaterThe Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of TimeThe Legend of Zelda: Majora’s MaskNieRThe Legend of Zelda: Tears of the KingdomThe Legend of Zelda: Skyward SwordChutes and LaddersYs seriesFor the Frog the Bell TollsCookie’s Bustle

    6: To what extent should a studio consider the feedback of their playerbase, and when should they ignore it? (39:34)

    BioWareElden RingGame Developer MagazineTelltale GamesSam & MaxDownwellOverwatch

    7: What is the realizing you’ve been to a restaurant too many times because the workers know who you are by sight of video games? (44:51)

    Sonic the Hedgehog 2Bonk’s RevengeParadise KillerDragon Age: The Veilguard

    LIGHTNING ROUND: Circle K Corral (51:11)

    Recommendations and Outro (59:34):

    Brandon: Def By Temptation (1990), Ooh Rap I YaAsh: Actually don’t watch For All Mankind, Titanium Court, Bon Appétit, Your MajestyFrank: Eat a ton of shredded cabbage

    This week’s episode art was done by Gilbert Smith. Insert Credit Show is brought to you by patrons like you. Thank you.

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  • Your Insert Credit Panel discusses the future of Xbox, the difference between dad games and mom games, and weird little guys. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

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    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    KEXPItalian AOC“This wild aura, man. Can’t let this go.”Falsetto

    1: When are you convinced to go back to a particular game after putting it down? (02:51)

    Red Dead Redemption: Undead NightmareCronos: The New DawnRed Dead Redemption IIDeadwoodSega GenesisSony PlayStationWorld of WarCraftQuest 64Quest 64 OfficialThe Oozebarleybap

    2: Through video game history, how has the job of level designer evolved? (07:44)

    TUMEDisney’s AladdinHirokazu YasuharaSonic the Hedgehog seriesUncharted seriesTitanfall 2Iwata AsksLegend of Zelda seriesShigeru MiyamotoTakashi Tezuka

    3: What are the differences between a dad game and a mom game? (12:59)

    PragmataCooking MamaBayonettaAmnesia: RebirthSuper MetroidNieRNieR Replicant ver.1.22474487139…Stardew ValleyThe SimsBlack & WhitePeter MolyneuxYou know it’s bad for AI when even Peter Molyneux, king of overpromising, is tepid on its use in game devGrateful DeadBlack Sabbath

    4: Design a video game trilogy intended to grow up with the player base (19:39)

    Pokemon seriesPalworldMewgenics!Final Fantasy XIIMaster ChiefGame FreakNFT

    5: Death_Strandicoot asks, is Xbox a third party now? Is there still a Big 3? (28:01)

    Halo: Campaign Evolved launches on PS5‘We Are Xbox’: read the memo defining Microsoft’s gaming futureDevelopers, developers, developersNintendoSonyRobloxEpicFortniteCircanaList of largest video game companies by revenue

    6: What are some new ways to torture players in masocore games? (33:42)

    MasocoreGetting Over It with Bennett FoddyQWOPDark SoulsMinecraftMarvel RivalsJackassVirtual BoySpeedrunning

    7: What is the McDonald’s Sprite of video games? (38:42)

    McDonaldsSpriteSteam Deck

    LIGHTNING ROUND: GameFAQ&As - Roblox Mobile (43:51)

    Recommendations and Outro (49:51):

    Frank: apply for Video Game History Foundation’s Charity Development Coordinator if you meet the qualificationsAsh: For All MankindBrandon: Boogiepop Phantom, Ikarie XB-1 (1963), Baby Steps Developers React to 7 Minute Speedrun

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  • The panel reviews Cookie’s Bustle, a Japanese PC adventure game hindered by endless copyright strikes and finally freed by the Video Game History Foundation.

    Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

    Watch episodes with full video on YouTube

    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    Yoko KannoCowboy BebopThe Real Folk BluesVincent DiamanteAlto saxophoneThe OffspringPhil CollinsWet LegWednesdayThe WeekndTaking Back SundayWednesday CampanellaCookie’s BustleStreisand Effect

    1: How did we get here? (05:53)

    Rodik, IncClassicsOfGameVideo Game History FoundationGames That Weren’tMoon ChildThe Video Game History Hour

    2: How hard is it to get this Japanese abandonware game from 1999 running on your PC in 2026? (11:38)

    Sega GenesisQuickTime

    3: What is happening in Cookie’s Bustle and what are you doing in it? (18:18)

    sebmalMr. BeanJames BondPac-Man 2: The New AdventuresLara Croft

    4: Apart from financial cost, what are the material advantages of keeping a development team small? (36:43)

    Tokyo Godfathers (2003)

    5: Chopemon asks: If you were to go on an adventure, what items have video games taught you to take that you wouldn’t normally think to take? (43:26)

    6: Developer Keisuke Harigai once said in a 2001 interview that he designed Cookie’s Bustle with the European market in mind. What do you think that means? (49:51)

    Keisuke HarigaiNew JerseyLucasArtsWizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad OverlordGrim FandangoEuro Truck Simulator seriesFarming Simulator seriesFootball Manager seriesTotal War seriesClair Obscur: Expedition 33Atomic HeartDisco Elysium

    7: Do you like Cookie’s Bustle? (56:07)

    Tony Hawk seriesMario Party seriesGold SaucerMr. BonesBennett FoddyGDCPenn & Teller’s Smoke and MirrorsAlter EgoSimTunesCD-ROMMystWii FitMobyGamesTo-Gen-Kiko

    8: Let’s talk about the mystique of inaccessible games (01:04:24)

    Fushigi YûgiAtariAtomiswaveDreamcastQAnonGeorge Lucas

    LIGHTNING ROUND: Recommendations (01:15:56)

    Brandon: Moon ChildFrank: The Cookie’s Bustle collection at the Video Game History FoundationAsh: Pizza

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  • Writer, Musician, and Experimental Games Workshop Organizer Liz Ryerson takes on GDC 2026’s expo hall and buttered cocoa with the help of Ty Underwood, Kory, and many more. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

    Segments:

    1: Mar 9 at 1-17 PM - in the park (00:14)

    2: Mar 11 at 1-05 PM - game changer (03:51)

    3: Mar 11 at 3-21 PM - overheard at GDC (08:45)

    4: Mar 12 at 4-01 PM - GDC expo floor (10:10)

    5: Mar 16 at 5-14 PM - rambly sick after show reflections (01:20:20)

    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

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  • Writer and Game Developer Mathew Kumar joins an episode hosted by Esper Quinn, covering live service games, personalized Silent Hills, and the Kentucky Loan Ranger.

    Hosted by Esper Quinn, with Frank Cifaldi, Brandon Sheffield, and Mathew Kumar. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

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    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    Sensible Soccer: European ChampionsZX SpectrumBatman“All I need are tasty waves, and total carnage.”Captain PlanetPC Engine

    1: What would it take to get you into a live service game today? (03:57)

    MarathonWhose Line Is It Anyway?FortniteSteam DeckPSPHelldivers IILeft 4 Dead

    2: Has a video game ever led to you taking up a non-video game hobby? (10:56)

    Death StrandingTony Hawk’s Pro Skater seriesBioShock InfiniteSonic the Hedgehog seriesMagic: the GatheringCrimson DesertPokémon PokopiaPowerWash SimulatorWanderstopIvy Road Closes its DoorsDemonschool

    3: Brandon Sheffield asks, have you ever found a piece of media you didn’t realize was based on a video game, then played the video game? (17:24)

    Sonic the Hedgehog (2020)Gnosia (anime)GnosiaMortal Kombat: Defenders of the RealmMortal Kombat seriesStreet Fighter (1994)Street Fighter seriesPac-Man cartoonPac-ManThe Crow (1994)Worlds of PowerPokemon seriesDennō Senshi PorygonThe Super Mario Galaxy Movie (2026)Super Mario Galaxy

    4: If you had access to the most advanced 3D graphics rendering capabilities available today, what would you make? (24:19)

    Cyberpunk 2077AfrikaYakuza series

    5: Alex Jaffe asks, what would your Silent Hill be like? (30:20)

    Silent Hill 2Silent Hill fSilent HillPyramid HeadWinnie The PoohingHudson News

    6: What’s the most work you ever put into a video game doing something that wasn’t explicitly encouraged by the game? (37:00)

    The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the KingdomGame Developer MagazineCrysis 2P.T.Resident Evil 4BubblesDefenderExile: Wicked PhenomenonCastlevania series

    7: What is the anime waifu car wrap of video games? (47:05)

    Gran Turismo 7NicoMakiXbox 360The iDOLM@STER seriesPSMMagic Knight RayearthTriforceNintendo DSKyary Pamyu Pamyu

    LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design - Magic Cards, Odyssey Block Edition (51:05)

    Acceptable LossesCunning WishBasking Rootwalla (not a real animal, but based on the real Chuckwalla)Faceless ButcherGallantryHunting GroundsBamboozle

    Recommendations and Outro (58:32):

    Brandon: Skip Tracer (1977)Mathew: Backyard BloodbathsFrank: ThunderbeanEsper: Blippo+

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  • Video Game Journalist Catherine Masters joins the panel to cover console prices, the Microsoft BDS boycott, and Bubsy helping Mario with something. Hosted by Catherine Masters, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

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    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    “If I had a game console, I bet I’d play it all day.”Nintendo DS LiteDogz 2Atari 2600IntellivisionSega Game GearSonic the Hedgehog 2Sonic the Hedgehog: Triple TroubleIntellivoiceB-17 BomberDualShockGame GenieRumble PakSound BlasterMike Mika

    1: How much more expensive can game consoles get? (04:43)

    Sony raises PS5 prices by up to $150PlayStation 5Popular Kids Console Nex Playground Gets $50 Price HikeNex PlaygroundPlayStation 4Sony Reportedly Testing Dynamic Pricing on the PlayStation StoreNintendo SwitchDemonschoolHalo series

    2: Why do people treat a Steam release like “the” PC release? (09:51)

    Steamitch.ioGoGKingdom Hearts seriesEpic Games StoreEA OriginPlayOnlineUPlaySteam DeckAlanis Morisette - Ironic

    3: After a year, what impact has the BDS Microsoft boycott had? (15:23)

    BDS Microsoft BoycottRC ColaOpenAIEntire Claude Code CLI source code leaks thanks to exposed map fileAnthropicOpenAI just gave up on Sora and its billion-dollar Disney deal

    4: What’s the deal with all these egg games? (19:05)

    Fowl DamageEgging OnArctic EggsBilly Hatcher and the Giant EggEgg SqueezeTerry Kavanaughyolkfolk.comDizzy and SeymourDizzyBubsyThe YolkfolkDizzy: Prince of the YolkfolkSlender ManThe Backrooms

    5: Alex Jaffe asks, what tattoo would you give to a tech bro asking for “gamer cred”? (24:55)

    Offspring - Pretty Fly for a White GuySuper Mario seriesTriforceHylian ShieldBerserkMaster ChiefThe cake is a lieSkibidi ToiletLara CroftSGMATRKWarthog

    6: What games could you rework from single player to multiplayer? (31:10)

    National Videogame Museum (United Kingdom)Twitch Plays PokemonThe Legend of Zelda: Four Swords AdventuresNo Way OutKnuckles’ ChaotixSuper Mario OdysseyIndieCadeTetris: The Grand MasterCelesteMr. BonesSekiro: Shadows Die Twice 2p1c by LilAggy and parkenharborGames Done QuickBennett FoddyQWOPBaby Steps

    7: What should Catherine do instead of watching Insert Credit this week? (36:17)

    Giant BombRndStrangerPC EngineThe Video Game History HourRemap RadioSega SaturnTriple Click

    8: What’s the juicy cotoure tracksuit of video games? (38:56)

    Juicy Cotoure tracksuitLollipop ChainsawUgg bootsStellar BladeWetOneechanbara seriesSuper Smash Bros. seriesMario Kart seriesMultiVersus2K SportsFortniteCandy Crush SagaLove and DeepspaceGoddess of Victory: NikkeBejeweledJuicy couture an Ed hardy collab photoshoot NYC fashion week

    LIGHTNING ROUND: Pokedexperts (47:45)

    Recommendations and Outro (56:33):

    Catherine: Hire Catherine if you’re a reputable publisher, make plans to finish things, Memory Card, Catherine’s work at The AV ClubAsh: Pursuit of Jade, revolution nowBrandon: 1000 Women in Horror, Apocalypse Hotel, 東風 by Sawteeth, Frédérick Raynal’s kickstarter for Popcorn Duel + SpinnerFrank: You can just watch Star Trek whenever you want without paying anyone money

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    (A previous version of this episode used an image from yolkfolk.com that we were not aware was AI generated. This has been fixed, and we apologize for showing it to you. Generative AI sucks, sorry about that.)

  • Your Insert Credit Panel covers bargaining with publishers, sordid secrets of video game couples, and the Zohran Mamdani of esports.

    Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

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    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    Cookie’s BustleLinuxSteam DeckFleetwood Mac - LandslideStevie Nicks“Nothin here except a stinkin’ pile of manure.”Coke ZeroLooney Tunes

    1: What’s your favorite cartridge shape? (03:19)

    Atari JaguarSonic & KnucklesGame BoyGame GearSega GenesisHuCardTurboGrafx-16WonderSwanGame Boy Advance

    2: As a game developer, how do you buy more time from your publisher? (08:21)

    Ysbryd GamesDemonschoolHollow Knight: SilksongYu SuzukiSpace HarrierHayao Nakayama

    3: What are the most important skills people don’t talk about in esports? (13:16)

    EsportsZohran MamdaniHoles FilledSonicFoxBovine spongiform encephalopathySumo

    4: Given recent drama, what are some other secrets of video game character couples? (18:55)

    Capcom Addresses Street Fighter 6 ‘Incest’ ControversyAlexStreet Fighter IIIBayonetta 3Sonic ’06SonicPrincess Elise the ThirdShadowMaria RobotnikTailsMary ShellyFrankenstein

    5: What video game would you recommend to Mary Shelly? (27:15)

    Date EverythingElden RingWhite Day: A Labyrinth Named SchoolYume NikkiSilent Hill fFatal FrameFrankenstein: The Monster ReturnsMonster MashAmigaGuitar Hero seriesSpooky Scary SkeletonsFinal Fantasy XV

    6: SteveWithaB asks, was there a time you remember being bullied for enjoying video games? (30:04)

    Columbine High School shootingCrouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)Sega Saturn

    7: What is the waking up just a few minutes before your alarm of video games? (37:47)

    Treasure Co., Ltd.IronicBatman: Arkham seriesResident Evil: requiemCrimson DesertGrand Theft Auto VI

    LIGHTNING ROUND: ARE YOU FUCKING STUPID? (41:26)

    The inspiration for this Lightning Roundarchive.gamehistory.org

    Recommendations and Outro (58:38):

    Frank: Kinetica, actually donate the stuff you set aside to donateBrandon: Suddenly In The Dark (1981)Ash: Out of the Closet Thrift StoresJaffe: Donate goods to Housing Works

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  • Our panel of experts discuss AI in game development, how to guide players, and Duke Nukem’s actual, real balls of steel. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

    Watch episodes with full video on YouTube

    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    XzibitPimp My RideTitan QuestEp. 430 - Pac-Man 2cularPac-Man 2: The New AdventuresGhost Witch of NetorThree’s CompanyJohn RitterWill Eisner“I awakened prematurely, and I have found nothing but filth and destruction.”Pecan pieCherry piePumpkin pieApple piePizza pieNobou UmeatsuMetaphor: ReFantazio

    1: At what point is a production tool considered AI? (08:38)

    GenAIClaude AILinuxGrapheneOSUnreal Engine 5

    2: What are the benefits of setting a game in the post-apocalypse? (15:26)

    RagePokémon PokopiaPokémon Blue VersionStar WarsCowboy Bebop

    3: What’s the worst answer you’ve ever heard from a video game professional to a question? (20:43)

    Naoki YoshidaFinal Fantasy XVIFinal Fantasy XVI has a medieval approach to diversityPlayStation 3GamasutraShuhei YoshidaOuyaSimon CarlessGameDiscoverCo

    4: What video game facts would you put on a Snapple cap? (26:16)

    SnappleScrappleLiverwurstPongIGFGex seriesDana CarveyDana GouldViggo Mortensen Broke His Toe In ‘The Two Towers’Donkey Kong seriesK. K. SliderShigeru MiyamotoSonic the HedgehogYuji NakaDuke NukemFushigi

    5: LeFish asks, what are the best ways of misdirecting players in videogames? (33:49)

    Yellow paintBioShockKaizoDead SpaceThe Secret of Monkey IslandZero Suit SamusFinal Fantasy XVCortana

    6: What are historically the smallest decisions that have had the largest impact on video games? (40:30)

    Magnavox OdysseyNolan BushnellVideo game moddingGame & WatchD-padWii SportsReggie Fils-AiméSatoru Iwata

    7: What is the realizing you were dehydrated when the water you drink is too good of video games? (45:56)

    ArtichokeSuper Mario seriesCrow CountrySonic ManiaSonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode ISonic the Hedgehog 4: Episode IIShōnenSteel Ball Run: JoJo’s Bizarre AdventureHunter x HunterYuYu HakushoSega Dreamcast

    LIGHTNING ROUND: Letters Delivery (51:26)

    Recommendations and Outro (54:52):

    Brandon: The videogame inspired by Philip Glass that nobody noticed, Demonschool is on sale (please rate and review), check out the libraryAsh: Do whimsical things outside your normal routine,Frank: Go out and find stuffJaffe: Stay indoors

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  • Necrosoft Games Director and Intrepid Reporter Brandon Sheffield interviews fellow developers and attendees of GDC 2026.

    Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, with Brendon Chung, Tony Grayson, Laura Michet, Chris Pruett, Phil Salvador, and Antonio Uribe. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

    Watch episodes with full video on YouTube

    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    Brandon SheffieldGDC 2026Yerba Buena Gardens

    1: Antonio Uribe, AKA Fáyer, creator of PancitoMerge and Dig! Dig! Dino!, on baked goods and making a Playdate game (04:14)

    FáyerPancitoMergeArcoDig! Dig! Dino!PlaydateThe WhiteoutCasual BirderFulcrum DefenderInto The BreachSuika GameThreesHarvest Moon seriesStardew ValleyPICO-8Itch.ioGame Boy AdvanceNintendo DSNintendo Switch

    2: Phil Salvador, Library Director of Video Game History Foundation, on building a library (21:56)

    Phil SalvadorVideo Game History FoundationChuck E. CheeseThe Secrets of Sega Channel: VGHF recovers over 100 Sega Channel ROMs (and more)William Volk PapersGame Developer Magazinearchive.gamehistory.orgNeverDeadMLB SlugFest Rejected AudioActivision 1994 Expense Report Form

    3: Tony Grayson, Director of Antonblast for Summit Sphere, on platformers (36:08)

    Tony GraysonAntonblastWario Land seriesPizza TowerBonk seriesPersona seriesPeakHighguard2XKOFortniteApex LegendsDemonschoolCupheadIt Takes Two

    4: Laura Michet, Narrative Director of Blendo Games and writer of Skin Deep, on comedy in video games (50:05)

    Laura MichetBlendo GamesSkin DeepThe Substance (2024)Riot ForgeSkype

    5: Brendon Chung, Creative Director of Skin Deep from Blendo games, on signposting in immersive sims (01:02:03)

    Brendon ChungSkin DeepImmersive SimRepo Man (1984)System Shock seriesThief seriesDeus Ex seriesBioShock seriesDishonored SeriesPrey seriesDeathloopBrigand: OaxacaDie Hard (1988)Final Fantasy Tactics seriesInto the BreachPhantom Brigade

    6: Chris Pruett, Director of Games at Meta, on modern horror games (01:17:35)

    Chris PruettRobot InvaderSilent Hill fResident Evil: RequiemFatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly RemakeR.E.P.O.Five Nights at Freddy’s seriesMouthwashing

    7: Brandon Sheffield, Writer and Director of Demonschool, on AI and being home from GDC (01:29:00)

    TripuzzStahlfeder: Tekkō HikūdanAirGraveSantosPatrick Miller

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  • Our heroes convene to discuss the changes at Microsoft and Sony, the liberation of Cookie’s Bustle, and the Year of the Horse.

    Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

    Watch episodes with full video on YouTube

    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    SunsoftPlastic ManCatwomanRagmanSandmanSgt. RockSega GenesisGame Boy ColorBatman Returns (1992)Michelle Pfeiffer“I love you! Don’t reject me!”Mega Max XMaverickJaegerGuns N’ Roses

    1: What does the landscape of console gaming look like now and in the future? (03:58)

    Asha Sharma named EVP and CEO, Microsoft GamingSony Has Reportedly Returned to Console ExclusivityMindsEye developer announces more job cuts while alleging ‘corporate sabotage’HighguardOverwatchClair Obscur: Expedition 33Pokémon PokopiaThe Legend of Zelda: Tears of the KingdomThe Legend of Zelda: Spirit TracksMat Piscatella

    2: When in a video game would you prefer to play as yourself, versus a character with a distinct personality? (12:45)

    White Men Can’t Jump (1992)White Men Can’t JumpAtari JaguarElenaDark Souls seriesNathan Drake

    3: If you had to lock in video game aesthetics forever, would that point be right now, or another time? (17:36)

    Final Fantasy XIIFinal Fantasy XIIIYakuza seriesThe bread sceneVagina BonesSteam Next FestStreet Fighter IIIScott Pilgrim EX

    4: What was the endgame for the Cookie’s Bustle patent troll? (23:59)

    We’ve freed Cookie’s Bustle from copyright hell. Here’s how.Cookie’s BustlePac-Man 2: The New AdventuresMr. BoopChiitan4chanMr. Bones

    5: Frank, talk about the weird NextFest experience you had (32:03)

    Steam Next FestFester’s QuestHowLongToBeat.com230 games came out the first week of 2026: An Investigation. (Jenna Stoeber’s video)Apple ArcadeSteam Deck

    6: The AV Club’s Catherine Masters asks: Happy year of the horse! What does a AAA horse game on the level of Forza or God of War look like? (41:34)

    The Patreon.com/insertcredit Gacha MachineForza seriesGod of War seriesTurboMLB The Show seriesRed Dead Redemption IIThe Mane QuestThe Legend of KhiimoriHorses of Hoofprint BayShadow of the ColossusTina BelcherCSI: Crime Scene Investigation

    7: The AV Club’s Catherine Masters asks, what would the Pink Pony Club be like as a place in a game? (48:52)

    Pink Pony ClubChappell RoanGwent: The Witcher Card GameCrazy Horse Too

    LIGHTNING ROUND: Year of the Horse - Mane Six (54:56)

    Twilight SparkleFluttershyRarityApplejackRainbow DashPinkie Pie

    Recommendations and Outro (01:01:06):

    Brandon: The second Kekko Kamen movie, Riverbend (1989): 6K Restoration Kickstarter, The Caller (1987), don’t overexert yourself while exercisingAsh: Touch grass, move your body, look at the skyJaffe: Go to physical therapy

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  • The panel reviews Pac-Man 2: The New Adventures, deeming it the most British Japanese game ever, and potentially the future of video games. Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

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    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    Mortal Kombat series“Look! Look!”Pac-Man 2: The New AdventuresBlinkyPac-Man (TV series)The Ghost Witch of NetorSueWill SmithThe Fresh Prince of Bel-AirMonkey Island series

    1: Why is this game like this? (06:16)

    The Cutting Room Floor - Pac-Man 2: The New Adventures (Genesis)MobyGamesMarvel LandNamcoPac-AttackPac-in-TimeYakuza seriesThe HoneymoonersI Think You Should Leave “Eggman Game” sketchRed Dead RedemptionSuper Princess PeachGarry’s ModFreddi Fish seriesPutt-Putt seriesSesame Street licenseesSonic the Hedgehog: SpinballThe Experience SharePokemon seriesTomb Raider seriesAge of Empires seriesTekken seriesKingdom Hearts

    2: If you had to live in a house shaped like a video game character, who would it be? (38:53)

    Super Mario Bros. 2X-Men 2: Clone WarsSteveSlimeBaba Is YouKirbyKim Kardashian

    3: What other video game sequels take such a big swing they deserve the subtitle “the New Adventures?” (41:08)

    Sonic the Hedgehog: SpinballOverwatch 2Valis seriesZelda II: The Adventure of LinkBatmanFinal Fantasy VITōru Iwatani

    4: Spencer Gifts asks, should Zelda style game be called adventure games or should point and click games be called adventure games? (46:56)

    Legend of Zelda seriesAdventureColossal Cave AdventureBook OffUncharted seriesGod HandHey You, Pikachu!LifelineSeamanThe SimsLittle Computer PeopleHaunting Starring PolterguyLemmingsShadow Labyrinth

    5: Let’s talk about the hot girl in Pac-Man 2. (52:56)

    The Ghost Witch of NetorPac ’n RollPac-in-TimePac-LandDemonaMs. Pac-ManPac-MomDexter’s MomMike Pence

    6: Let’s talk about the arcade segments stapled onto this game. (58:17)

    The Lion KingMr. Bones

    7: Is this a good game? (01:03:37)

    IndikaUncharted seriesKeita Takahashi

    LIGHTNING ROUND: Name Design - The New Adventures (01:13:21)

    Credit Report (01:21:06)

    Recommendations and Outro (01:22:45):

    Frank: Pac-Man 2: The New AdventuresBrandon: The Feminine Complex, Corpse Mania (1981), Total Recall 2070, donate to Trans Continental PipelineAsh: Read Aftermath, pay for journalism, take a walk in the sunJaffe: Share your interests with people

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  • Ash Parrish hosts the blackest episode of Insert Credit yet, with an all-star panel of former guests and contributors. Hosted by Ash Parrish, with Topher Florence, Vanessa B, and Pro Kesadia. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

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    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    “My brothers and sisters of the United States of America, tonight we, the free people of the resistance, ask you to become one of us”CurlingFunky KongFigure SkatingSonic AdventureBalatroSnowboarding

    1: Is there still a place for live service games right now? (05:01)

    HighguardOverwatchOverwatch 2 drops the 2 and goes back to being OverwatchHighguard Is Yet Another Symptom – And Victim – Of A Rapidly Decaying InternetMarvel RivalsHelldivers II2XKORiot Spent A Decade Developing A Fighting Game Then Laid Off Around 80 Developers Less Than One Month After ReleaseFortniteDisney SpeedstormConcordEmma FrostCloak and DaggerTaskmasterRunawaysSilkAnya CorazonLeague of LegendsArcaneKillmonger Cut

    2: Who should be the next Nintendo character to get hit with the baby ray? (13:46)

    Mario Tennis AcesBaby WaluigiBaby WarioBabalityBaby RosalinaMario Kart WorldToadYoshiBowser Jr.BowserPaulineDonkey Kong BananzaSamusLinkGanondorfE. HondaDr. MarioSpace Warlord Baby Trading Simulator

    3: If you were taking up the mantle of MF Doom, what cartoons would you use in your skits? (17:42)

    MF DoomJohnny QuestFantastic FourStatic ShockThe Pirates of Dark WaterMummies Alive!RebootTransformers: Beast WarsCheetorDinobotOptimus PrimalSilverbolt

    4: Who is the “I would have voted for Obama for a third time” of video games? (20:51)

    Ken LevineBioShockAbbott ElementaryJacobNeil DruckmannGeoff KeighleyTodd HowardThe Elder Scrolls V: SkyrimWolfenstein II: The New ColossusGrace WalkerSuper Spesh

    Insert Credit Quick Break: Brenton Woodrow’s Marathon (25:35)

    5: Alex Jaffe asks, which 21st century video games would be best for a 1980’s DiC-style cartoon? (26:52)

    DIC EntertainmentThe Super Mario Bros. Super Show!Captain N: The Game MasterSplatoonSpongeBob SquarePantsKirbyKirby: Right Back at Ya!King DededeAvatar: the Last AirbenderAmong UsAmong Us ShowElijah WoodMinionsCastle CrashersAlien Hominid

    6: Brandon Sheffield asks, why is the Sega Genesis for black people? (31:51)

    Sega GenesisSuper Nintendo Entertainment SystemSonic the Hedgehog seriesMichael JacksonSonic 1 Music: Spring Yard ZoneMichael Jackson’s MoonwalkerComix ZoneSony PlayStationMicrosoft XboxTekken seriesStreet Fighter Alpha 3Virtua Fighter seriesSega DreamcastPower Stone seriesToeJam and Earl series

    LIGHTNING ROUND: Cookout (38:09)

    Recommendations and Outro (52:50):

    Vanessa: twitch.tv/pleasantlytwstd, RelootedAsh: Review the games you likePro_Kesadia: twitch.tv/pro_kesadia, Romeo Is A Dead ManTopher: topherflorence.bsky.social, make some bundt bread

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  • Editor Esper Quinn joins Ash and Brandon to cover the rest of 2025’s best games.

    Hosted by Brandon Sheffield, with Ash Parrish and Esper Quinn. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

    Watch episodes with full video on YouTube

    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    Clair Obscur: Expedition 33Demonschool

    1: Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment (02:28)

    Dynasty Warriors: OriginsThe Legend of Zelda: Tears of the KingdomThe Legend of Zelda: Breath of the WildHyrule Warriors seriesLinkleVampire Survivors

    2: Soulstone Survivors (05:38)

    3: Let Them Come: Onslaught (06:21)

    4: Vital Shell (06:38)

    5: to a T (07:39)

    Keita TakahashiDespelotePerfect Tides: Station to Station

    6: Ball x Pit (10:49)

    Arkanoid

    7: Shinobi: Art of Vengeance (16:20)

    BlasphemousNinja Gaiden: RageboundInsert Credit Gaiden #14 - Arcadevania, with Ben Fiquet

    8: Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound (18:11)

    Blasphemous

    9: Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles (19:46)

    Fire Emblem seriesAdvance Wars seriesTriangle StrategyDissidia: Final Fantasy NT seriesYasumi MatsunoOgre BattleTactics OgreFinal Fantasy TacticsVagrant StoryFinal Fantasy XIIFinal Fantasy Tactics AdvanceJeanne d’ArcDisgaea series

    10: Terminator 2D: No Fate (25:20)

    Xeno CrisisThe PhantomThe Phantom (1996)Macaw45Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita’s RewindTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in TimeJudge DreddMetal Slug series

    11: Blade Chimera (29:03)

    Record of Lodoss War: Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth

    12: Squeakross: Home Squeak Home (31:32)

    Animal Crossing: Happy Home DesignerJerma Streams - Squeakross: Home Squeak Home

    13: Unbeatable (34:45)

    14: Ambrosia Sky: Act One (37:06)

    PowerWash Simulator

    15: Spirit Swap: Lofi Beats to Match-3 To (38:54)

    Lofi Girl

    16: Skin Deep (41:27)

    Laura Michet

    17: Angeline Era (44:43)

    Ys seriesEarthbound

    18: Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. (47:39)

    Tekken seriesHades II

    19: Birdcage (51:24)

    Doom: The Dark AgesRadiant SilvergunSōkyūgurentaiIkaruga

    20: JAIL DICE: Roll to Break (53:17)

    Devil Dice

    21: Magic: The Gathering®—FINAL FANTASY™ (56:54)

    The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earthMagic: The Gathering® | The Hobbit™Assassin’s CreedWar of the SparkEp. 401 - Let’s Gather Some Magic, with Esper Quinn

    22: Hell Is Us (01:03:59)

    23: Hades II (01:13:47)

    HadesPyreTransistor

    24: Shadow Labyrinth (01:16:42)

    Pac-ManXeviousMr. DrillerSecret Level

    25: Doom: The Dark Ages (01:21:49)

    Doom EternalDoomDjent

    26: The Dark Queen of Mortholme (01:26:30)

    BlasphemousSlay the Princess

    27: Pokemon Legends: Z-A (01:30:00)

    Pokémon ScarletYakuza universeDigimon Story Time StrangerPokopia

    28: Hotel Barcelona (01:35:53)

    Hidetaka SuehiroGoichi SudaSuper Time Force

    29: The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy (01:39:43)

    Danganronpa seriesZero Escape: The Nonary GamesKazutaka KodakaKotaro UchikoshiGnosia

    30: Shujinkou (01:45:24)

    Street Fighter: 30th Anniversary CollectionGunhouse

    31: Haste (01:49:32)

    Klonoa: Door to PhantomileSSX seriesTony Hawk Pro Skater seriesPeak

    32: AI Limit (01:53:06)

    33: Super Robot Wars Y (01:54:29)

    GunplaSentai

    34: Routine (01:58:03)

    AftermathCrow Country

    35: Sid Meier’s Civilization VII (02:03:15)

    Sid Meier’s Civilization VSid Meier’s Civilization VIEndless LegendSid Meier’s Civilization: Beyond Earth

    36: Blast Rush LS (02:10:29)

    Blast Rush

    37: Advent Neon (02:12:37)

    SocketDeviantArtNewgrounds

    38: Donkey Kong Bananza (02:16:02)

    Donkey Kong 64Donkey Kong Country: Tropical FreezeMario Kart WorldSuper Mario OdysseyThe Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks

    39: Cronos: The New Dawn (02:23:03)

    Silent Hill 2Silent Hill f

    40: Absolum (02:27:01)

    Streets of Rage 4

    41: Monster Prom 4: Monster Con (02:31:14)

    LeahPleaseMonster Prom series

    42: Dreams of Another (02:33:58)

    The Unfinished SwanViewfinder

    43: Date Everything! (02:37:49)

    GijinkaOS-tanHyperdimension Neptunia seriesHatoful Boyfriend

    44: Kingdoms of the Dump (02:43:18)

    Mario RPG seriesFragrant Story

    45: Blippo+ (02:45:38)

    PlaydateYachtTelefantasy StudiosMax HeadroomBlippo+ (NSW2) No Commentary

    46: Full Metal Schoolgirl (02:56:39)

    Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

    47: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (03:00:40)

    SuikodenBrain Lords - The Backlog Games of the Year ft. Esper QuinnBen StarrMatthew MercerPersona seriesFaye WongIt Takes Two

    Outro (03:18:04)

    48: Despelote (03:20:56)

    Outro, Part II (03:21:24)

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  • Insert Credit nominates and ranks the fifteen best video games of the year 2025.

    Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

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    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    (Finalized list appears at the bottom of the show notes, don’t spoil yourself!)

    SHOW NOTES:

    Boogerman: A Pick and Flick Adventure“Displeased! If I breathe, if I live, I am displeased. Only the dead are satisfied.”52 PickupVideo Game History Foundation Digital ArchiveDemonschool

    1: Ash Parrish’s First Nominee (05:20)

    South of MidnightBDSAhmed BestJar Jar Binks

    2: Brandon Sheffield’s First Nominee (09:27)

    Yakuza seriesLike a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in HawaiiLike a Dragon: Infinite WealthIchiban KasugaKazuma KiryuGoro MajimaYakuza 0Deadpool

    3: Frank Cifaldi’s First Nominee (14:46)

    WanderstopDavey WredenThe Stanley ParableThe Beginner’s GuideAnimal Crossing series

    4: Ash’s Second Nominee (20:34)

    Blue PrinceEscape Academy

    5: Brandon’s Second Nominee (24:50)

    Asura the StrikerSpace HarrierOutRunDarius

    6: Frank’s Second Nominee (28:01)

    The Roottrees are DeadThe Séance of Blake ManorHowLongToBeat.com

    7: Ash’s Third Nominee (32:37z)

    Dead TakeTales of Kenzera: ZauAssassin’s Creed: OriginsFull-motion videoBen StarrNeil NewbonFinal Fantasy XVIBaldur’s Gate IIIMatt MercerJeffrey EpsteinHarvey WeinsteinAlan Wake seriesSam LakeMax Payne seriesPalworldMeet The Unconventional Publishers Trying To Unfuck The Games Industry

    8: Brandon’s Third Nominee (37:53)

    Call of Ponchy : Mahjong WarfareFortniteD3Publisher Inc.

    9: Frank’s Third Nominee (43:24)

    Silent Hill fSilent Hill 2Sonic the WerehogBonkBubsy

    Frank’s Top 5 Albums of the Year (54:01)

    The Tune-Yards - Better DreamingDeep Sea Diver - Billboard HeartTunde Adebimpe - Thee Black BoltzWet Leg - moisturizerWet Leg: Tiny Desk ConcertWednesday - Bleeds

    10: Ash’s Fourth Nominee (59:31)

    Hollow Knight: SilksongHollow KnightDeath Stranding 2: On The Beach

    11: Brandon’s Fourth Nominee (01:05:41)

    HypogeaQuake

    12: Frank’s Fourth Nominee (01:08:50)

    WindsweptDonkey Kong CountryKaizoSuper Mario seriesOh, Deer!

    13: Ash’s Fifth Nominee (01:14:37)

    News TowerCitizen Kane (1941)Game Dev StoryHome of the UnderdogsSuperhero League of HobokenMad TV

    14: Brandon’s Fifth Nominee (01:22:01)

    Clair Obscur: Expedition 33Promise Mascot AgencyInsert Credit Gaiden #13 - The Intended Game, with Oli Clarke Smith

    15: Frank’s Fifth Nomination (01:27:41)

    Clair Obscur: Expedition 33Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake EaterHideo Kojima

    16: Alex Jaffe’s First Nomination (01:33:29)

    THE INSERT CREDIT GAME OF THE YEAR 2025 TOP 16:Silent Hilf ($69.99) [14 hrs]News Tower ($24.99) [9.5 hrs]South of Midnight ($39.99) [11.5 hrs]Wanderstop ($24.99) [10.5 hrs]Hollow Knight: Silksong ($19.99) [28 hrs]Blue Prince ($29.99) [26.5 hrs]Dead Take ($14.99) [4 hrs]Promise Mascot Agency ($24.99) [12.5 hrs]Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii ($59.99) [36 hrs]Windswept ($19.99) [9.5 hrs]Hypogea ($9.99) [2.5 hrs]Asura the Striker ($14.99) [0.5 hrs]The Roottrees are Dead ($19.99) [11.5 hrs]Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater ($69.99) [12 hrs]Call of Ponchy: Mahjong Warfare ($0.99) [??? hrs]Demonschool ($24.99) [31.5 hrs]

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  • The finest minds in video games discuss the evolution of turn-based combat, turning pixels into symphonies, and the devastating return of Violence Island.

    Hosted by Alex Jaffe, with Frank Cifaldi, Ash Parrish, and Brandon Sheffield. Edited by Esper Quinn, original music by Kurt Feldman.

    Watch episodes with full video on YouTube

    Discuss this episode in the Insert Credit Forums

    SHOW NOTES:

    AudacityE3Doctor WhoDoctor ManhattanBlinkTom BakerSherlockSteven MoffatDaliensCybermen“Do you think people are happy in this wizard kingdom?”Mega Man seriesClown ManItNicole KidmanKid n’ Play

    1: What tips you off that someone discussing video games has no idea what they’re talking about? (06:08)

    New York TimesIGF AwardsCall of Duty seriesMega Man: Legacy CollectionBatmanSupermanZack SnyderMadden seriesDaryl Hall & John Oates - Out Of Touch

    2: How have turn-based battle systems evolved over 30 years? (11:58)

    Clair Obscur: Expedition 33Shin Megami Tensei seriesValkyria ChroniclesFinal Fantasy XIIParasite EveMario + Rabbids: Kingdom BattleMetaphor: ReFantazioKingdoms of the DumpThe Doors - Riders On The StormFinal Fantasy X-2

    3: On what occasions have you wished a game was harder? (17:27)

    SoulslikeGunstar HeroesBayonetta 3Pokemon series

    4: If we were to re-establish an official video game seal of quality, what would be the qualifying criteria? (21:41)

    Official Nintendo SealSteam Deck

    5: Syswivv asks, what kind of video game would Andy Warhol have made? (28:08)

    Andy WarholMadonnaFortniteCD-iEric IdleStarship TitanicHarlan EllisonHarlan Ellison: I Have No Mouth, and I Must ScreamCD+GSega CDEmpire (1965)Peter MolyneuxMAGFestGDCBubsy 3D: Bubsy Visits the James Turrell RetrospectiveJames Turrell

    6: Describe Bubsy 3D: Bubsy Visits the James Turrell Retrospective to Ash (32:24)

    Arcane KidsDonut CountyBubsy series

    7: What’s the best use a game has ever made of being able to click in the analog stick? (34:39)

    The Godfather: The GameManhuntGod of War IIIOedipusYanya Caballista: City SkaterKatamari DamacyKinectGhost (1990)Octodad: Dadliest Catch

    8: Who is your favorite video game character to debut in the last ten years? (40:39)

    Crow CountryMara ForestHollow Knight: SilksongHornetBayonetta seriesBayonettaNier: Automata2BIndikaFinal Fantasy XVPrompto ArgentumIgnis ScientiaOverwatchTracerBaldur’s Gate IIIAstarionBalan WonderworldBalanConcord

    LIGHTNING ROUND: Violence Island (46:02)

    Recommendations and Outro (01:01:52):

    Brandon: The Most Terrible Time in My Life (1993), Gnosia, yuccaAsh: Put chili crisp on everything, Support Laid-off Vox Media WorkersFrank: Lil’ baby potatoes

    This week’s Insert Credit Show is brought to you by patrons like you. Thank you.

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