Bard's Backlog

TIMESTAMPS: 02:59 - Housekeeping 11:55 - Q: Do you go through phases? 25:12 - The Games We Playin' 34:48 - {DEFAULT} - What are your best tips for making friends? 1:03:50 - THE PICK: Super Mario Party SYNOPSIS: Behold, a new Jared-hosted episode! Jared brings the research and the FIRE in this episode, tackling the evergreen and ever-popular Mario Part series in as thorough detail as you'd expect from a Jared episode. I (Josh the Bard) personally love handing the controller over to Jared because he always knocks it out of the park and does something unique with it to boot. That being said, this is a doozy of an episode, so feel free to use timestamps if you feel inclined! In the first portion of the episode, we lengthily discuss topics like making friends and going through phases. Of course the upcoming school year, the occasional background bump, and the Souls franchise all make appearances as well! Enjoy the 59th Hall of Games!

TIMESTAMPS: 04:02 - Housekeeping 11:05 - Q: Would you rather be haunted by a ghost or be a ghost? 14:02 - The Games We Playin' 28:27 - {DEFAULT} - The Backlog Reaping 2023 1:44:02 - THE PICK: Detention SYNOPSIS: The Reaping was a wonderful time this year! What would've otherwise been a one-hour episode is much bigger due to a fantastic Reaping conversation/debate/baring of souls. Plus we also nominate a particularly interesting (and artsy, some may argue) video game in Detention, a politically-charged Taiwanese horror point-and-click adventure. And it lives up to each of those beats, in more ways than one. But as the Reaping segment proves, the Hall of Games is growing more elite and exclusive by the year... so does Detention have what it takes to make the cut? Jared's new nickname--SOFT SERVE--makes its debut, and we chat fireworks at 4th of July, the difference between being a ghost and being haunted by one, Attack on Titan, Josh's PS5's demise, the guilty pleasures of Dark Souls 2, and we even have a lengthy conversation on the tragedy of divorce. It's bursting at the seams, ladies and gents--we hope you enjoy!

**late upload due to poor scheduling, a holiday, and general laziness TIMESTAMPS: 00:42 - Housekeeping 07:22 - Q: Do our cars have names? 11:03 - The Games We Playin' 21:25 - {DEFAULT} - GOTY Check-in's 29:52 - THE PICK: BioShock SYNOPSIS: I'm very excited to finally sit down to chat BioShock with Jared!!! (I'm doing this under duress so not enough time to describe everything, although we definitely talk about GOTYS and cars).

TIMESTAMPS: 02:35 - Housekeeping 11:20 - Q: What's a favorite gaming memory from our childhood? 22:20 - The Games We Playin' 31:06 - {DEFAULT} - REAL or FAKE: Dead Cells weaponry edition 53:45 - THE PICK: Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom SYNOPSIS: It's TIME!... even though I am absolutely unprepared for it. In a move that is wholly unlike me, I the videogamebard was unable to complete this episode's Pick before we recorded--and there's a very interesting reason as to why. With Jared having spent over 100 hours and I having spent over 50, we still feel more than capable to cover what is perhaps the biggest game of the year and one of the greatest games of the 2020's so far: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Does this massive expansion on the highly lauded Breath of the Wild live up to its predecessor and the hype? Will the controversial additions to the game be enough to keep it from being put into the Hall? Do we even LIKE the game at all??? Listen to see. We also talk a bunch about Dead Cells weaponry (lots of fun!), normalizing cartoons, and Jared's heartfelt memories playing none other than the Game of Life on the PSX (of course). And hey! We launched our official Twitter! Go follow us, @hallofgamespod.

TIMESTAMPS: 06:01 - Housekeeping 10:40 - Q: What's a book we wish we could read for the first time again? 26:25 - The Games We Playin' 44:30 - {DEFAULT} - Gaming on vacation 58:30 - THE PICK: Dead Cells SYNOPSIS: With a wild spring now behind us, Jared and I were finally able to reconnect after some *slight* delay to talk about DEAD CELLS. Josh has an extensive history with Dead Cells, but Jared has actually beaten it! (curse his rogue-like skillage). Will the fast-paced deathloop have what it takes to stand above the other rogue-likes out there? Does Jared's trick disqualify him from gaming forever? Is vacation possible with kids?! We talk about that, as well as best books to reread, Tears of the Kingdom's scope, and of course, Breckenridge!

TIMESTAMPS: 06:48 - Housekeeping 14:00 - Q: What's our take on poetry? Do we have a favorite poem? 19:22 - The Games We Playin' 30:15 - {DEFAULT} - Should using a guide while gaming be universally accepted? 49:55 - THE PICK: The Last of Us Part I SYNOPSIS: It's been far too long since the start of this love project for us to have NOT covered The Last of Us in any way. After a 2022 full of AAA experiences and Jared's baptism in the Playstation catalog, Naughty Dog's premiere title is finally up to bat. Will the state of modern games overshadow what was a significant 2013 title? Does The Last of Us stand the test of time well enough to enter into the great Hall? Will ushering in such a juggernaut upset the balance of the Hall??? Listen and discover alongside us! One of my favorite things about the podcast is that we go into it not knowing where the other stands on the title, nor knowing the verdict. Plus! We discuss poetry, video game guides, and a crazy busy May!

I finally coaxed Jared into fully playing Dark Souls II and its DLC, and we have QUITE a few thoughts on it as is evident by the length! Not to worry, every minute is spent productively and the conversation needed to be as thorough as this one to fully understand the controversial behemoth Dark Souls II. Listen on to discover if we enter it into the Great Hall, or pass on it like its sequel! The penultimate Souls game is now in the books! Plus, some riddles to stump Jared, Mario movie chat, differences between the sexes, and LOTS of general From Software chat (after all, we're a Dark Souls podcast). Timestamps: 00:50 - Mario movie chat 13:32 - Housekeeping 16:02 - Q: When single, would we have married ANYONE immediately? 46:00 - The Games We Playin' 1:03:08 - {DEFAULT} - Can Jared answer all the riddles from The Batman 1:13:17 - THE PICK: Dark Souls II

This week we cover the seminal Pokemon Legends Arceus! Will the offshoot entry in the beloved series be original enough to be entered into the Hall? Listen and find out! We also discuss comebacks, famous people, Fortnite and the uncanny valley! Timestamps: 01:49 - Housekeeping 09:25 - Q: Who's the most famous person we've personally met? 18:00 - The Games We Playin' 38:34 - {DEFAULT} - What is the Uncanny Valley? 56:08 - THE PICK: Pokemon Legends Arceus

Now entering the second phase of the Hall of Games, Jared and Josh bring up one of gaming's classics--Metroid Prime Remastered. Is old game too old? Does a facelift do enough justice to a game from 2002, or is the core too weak to stay afloat in 2023? There's a reason it topped Switch charts for so long, but in a post-Dread world, does Prime have what it takes to enter into the Hall of Games? Listen and find out! We also discuss what IP we'd like to "Elden-Ring-ify," what reality shows we could win, and a small discussion on our spoilery conversations. Timestamps: 03:37 - Housekeeping 04:01 - On spoilers... 07:18 - Q: What reality show/game/contest could we win?? 13:53 - The Games We Playin' 31:05 - {DEFAULT} - What IP would we "Elden-Ring-ify"? 50:50 - THE PICK: Metroid Prime Remastered

Wow! Hard to believe we reached a sum total of 50 episodes! 6 out of the 50 have been non-Hall-centric, but to think we've played and covered so many games in the last 3 years is hard to believe. And what an awesome journey it's been as well. Thanks for coming alongside us. To celebrate, we're giving out "Best Of" awards to our Hall of Games entries, crowning only the best of the best. Plus, some trivia to stump Jared! We also discuss Lance Reddick, Fortnite updates, and of course our pick, Vampire Survivors! Here's to 50 more games! Timestamps: 02:47 - Housekeeping 05:17 - Q: What is the future of the Hall of Games? 11:49 - The Games We Playin' 19:56 - {DEFAULT} - 50th Episode Extravaganza! 21:55 - Best World 35:05 - Best Story 48:37 - Best Art Direction 58:29 - Best Characters 1:12:10 - Best Gameplay 1:24:04 - THE PICK: Vampire Survivors

Our first AAA game of 2023 is one near and dear to Josh's heart. Jared, however, has no deep love for Star Wars or Souls knockoffs. Will Fallen Order, Respawn's first foray into action adventure, be a contender for the Great Hall? Or will the game's elements not come together into a cohesive package worthy of such an honor? Listen and find out! We also discuss gaming's golden age, the tragedy of the Star Wars sequels, and tha games we never finished! Timestamps: 00:38 - Housekeeping 03:31 - Q: Are we living in gaming's golden age? 12:03 - The Games We Never Finished (NEW!) 25:04 - {DEFAULT} - Can the Star Wars franchise be saved?? 41:03 - THE PICK: Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order

This week we tackle the wholly original Doki Doki Literature Club! Timestamps: 05:45 - Housekeeping 07:37 - Q: Fiction vs. nonfiction 15:10 - The Games We Playin' 26:44 - {DEFAULT} - Anti-bucket list items 35:13 - THE PICK: Doki Doki Literature Club 1:27:05 - Jared's Poetry Corner

I cannot explain how glad I am to have tricked Jared into playing Inside--and I'm even more glad at the episode's results! Some of the best episodes are the most surprising ones. Inside resides in a haunted part of our souls, so listen as we break down what makes this delightfully unnerving experience a classic. We also chat about Jared's racism, Valentine's Day plans, game-to-TV adaptations, and a lot of Games We Playin! Timestamps: 04:20 - Housekeeping 08:08 - Q: Valentine's Day preferences and plans 12:50 - The Games We Playin' 41:53 - {DEFAULT} - Game-to-TV adaptations: predictions, hopes, and pipe dreams 53:51 - THE PICK: Inside

This episode's topic is one long in the making--we FINALLY cover Deathloop! With a presence more powerful than Black Adam, Deathloop made its mark with the way it struck gamers with either immense love or the depths of hate. Jared (disclaimer: he gets motion sick with FPS games lulz) and Josh have takes that may surprise you. We also discuss what we're most excited for in 2023 (so much yet to come!), what we want done with our bodies when we die, and of course, ELDEN RING. Timestamps: 02:45 - Housekeeping 08:32 - Q: What should be done with our bodies after we die?? 13:25 - The Games We Playin' 36:11 - {DEFAULT} - Our Top 5 Most Anticipated 2023 Games 1:08:16 - THE PICK: Deathloop 2:16:41 - Deja Vu

A new year, a new look and sound! Enjoy the aesthetic updates while we chat through our picks for Game of the Year! Here's to an exciting 2023! Timestamps: 00:40 - Housekeeping 04:38 - Listener email!! 11:45 - The Games We Playin' 45:50 - {DEFAULT}: 2023 hopes and dreams 52:49 - GOTY Awards 55:15 - Biggest Moment award 1:12:15 - Most Frustrating Moment award 1:24:29 - Best AAA Game award 1:32:50 - INTERLUDE 1:33:44 - Best Indie Game award 1:43:59 - Best Story award 1:49:00 - Best Character award 1:56:03 - Most Addicting award 2:01:40 - Most Disappointing award 2:08:00 - Best Music award 2:11:38 - Game of the Year Award

A GOTY contender is on the chopping block! Will Jared and Josh's affinity for From Software get in the way of this evaluation? Does Ragnarok's PS4 roots keep it from new heights? Ragnarok is a powerful contender, but the Hall of Games is sacred indeed! Listen and hear Jared and Josh's reasoning for their decision! TIMESTAMPS: 00:35 - Thanksgiving chat 06:55 - Housekeeping 08:50 - Q: Game Award winner predictions 25:03 - Tha Games We Playin' 35:30 - {DEFAULT}: Is gaming a weaker storytelling format? 50:17 - THE PICK - God of War: Ragnarok

Forbidden West is up next on the chopping block. Can the sequel to one of Jared and Josh's most-praised games make it into the esteemed Hall? Has enough changed / improved, or no? Listen to see! TIMESTAMPS: 00:35 - Housekeeping 02:29 - Q: favorite soda? 07:33 - Tha Games We Playin' 16:12 - {DEFAULT}: Is the world we live in unfair? 25:30 - THE PICK - Horizon: Forbidden West

Jared and Josh reunite after some time off for another episode! This time, we discuss the controversial remake of Link's Awakening. Released in 1993, has too much time passed to enjoy this old Game Boy original? The 2019 version may be pretty, but it is still the original at its core. Or has Nintendo updated enough and softened its edges enough to make it a timeless classic? Perhaps the most zany Zelda game, and Jared's 3rd so far--listen and see if it makes it into the Hall of Games! Plus: Jared is back in Connecticut, Josh is rehearsing Shakespeare, and we FINALLY chat Horizon Forbidden West! TIMESTAMPS: 04:45 - Housekeeping 06:12 - Q: favorite theatre production? 15:55 - Tha Games We Playin' 35:22 - {DEFAULT}: Jared Lore 42:57 - THE PICK - Link's Awakening (2019)

Returnal has a loop unlike any other; what else would you expect from Housemarque? Its slick colors, intense difficulty, and rewarding gameplay all come together into one vibrant PS5 package, but is it enough to allow it entry into the Hall of Games? How come Jared is so much better at this game than Josh is?! Plus--poopy pants, the dreamscape, and Mario Kart DLC! TIMESTAMPS: 00:30 - Housekeeping 03:22 - Q: so scared we soiled ourselves? 10:03 - Tha Games We Playin' 15:42 - {DEFAULT}: What are dreams?? 24:49 - THE PICK - Returnal

The chunky beginnings to the 3D environments we know and love today is now officially on the backlog chopping block!!! Will the game be able to overcome its aged mechanics and graphics to make it into the hall? Does its legacy hold true to this day? Is Jared's lack of old-school tolerance going to sink this otherwise legendary ship? Is this game even fun to play?! We answer all these and more in the latest episode of the Hall of Games, and I think you'll be surprised at our final verdict! Plus--cartoons, Spider-Man, and Bidenflation. TIMESTAMPS: 01:04 - Inflation woes 06:08 - Housekeeping 8:42 - Q: our favorite childhood cartoons? 14:13 - Tha Games We Playin' 38:14 - {DEFAULT}: Do games have a place in academics? 54:29 - THE PICK - Super Mario 64

You'll probably be able to guess whether or not the 7th highest selling game of all time makes it into the esteemed Hall. Take a listen! TIMESTAMPS: 00:30 - Housekeeping 02:08 - Q: The Music Game 9:57 - Tha Games We Playin' 21:03 - {DEFAULT}: Would we ever do stand-up? 34:00 - THE PICK - Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Jared and I gush over the seminal Mario Galaxy! TIMESTAMPS: 01:29 - Housekeeping 03:04 - Q: Would we colonize Mars? 08:49 - Tha Games We WANT to Play 17:23 - {DEFAULT}: Near-death experiences 29:35 - PICK - Super Mario Galaxy

Perhaps the only episode we do that combines two games in a franchise! Do Portals 1 and 2 have what it takes to collectively make it into the hallowed Hall? Does 1 hold back 2? Or vice verse?! Did Jared vibe with Portal, or did he yearn for a more action-heavy title? Anything could happen in the latest episode of the Hall of Games! Timestamps: 04:47 - Housekeeping 06:11 - Q: What punishments would we assign each other in purgatory? 10:25 - Tha Games We Playin' 22:28 - {DEFAULT}: Best console? 28:44 - PICK of the week: Portal franchise 1:39:56 -

What will perhaps go down as the most fascinating and unique video game released in 2022--Neon White--is our next conversation. Does this slightly bizarre but geeky freaky game have what it takes to pass our evaluation? Will the Hall gain another title, or will Neon White prove to have flown too close to the sun? More episodes coming soon! TIMESTAMPS: 00:36 - Housekeeping 01:55 - Q: Best vacation spot? 06:30 - Tha Games We Playin 08:11 - {DEFAULT}: Best video game console DISCUSSED 19:09 - Pick of the Week - Neon White

Jared and I spend a good hour talking about the Pick of the Week (which does not make sense chronologically)... and then another hour on our Yearly Reaping!!! This one is a doozy! Behold the days before Josh's child was born. Timestamps: 04:43 - Housekeeping 06:30 - Our #J4 Independence Day Celebrations 12:58 - Tha Games We Playin' 35:21 - {DEFAULT}: The Backlog Reaping 2022 01:13:24 - THE PICK - Super Mario Sunshine

Another meaty podcast covering perhaps the most drop-dead gorgeous game on the face of the planet. Can you tell we enjoyed Sucker Punch's latest? BUT was it original enough to make it into the esteemed Hall of Games? Timestamps break it down via topics, see below! Timestamps: 04:48 - Housekeeping 06:05 - If you could live in any historical era, which would you choose? 10:31 - Tha Games We Playin' 18:28 - {DEFAULT} - Is Josh an unhealthy gamer? 36:43 - THE PICK: Ghost of Tsushima

We couldn't help but talk just a little bit more about our most recent successful entry into the Hall of Games--Elden Ring! And trust us, this ain't the last you heard of it. This is basically just your 2022.

Our meatiest episode to date would of course be for Elden Ring!!! You may be able to predict what our verdict is here... buckle up for an amazing conversation about an amazing game. Timestamps break it down via topics, see below! Timestamps: 00:45 - Housekeeping 04:42 - Do we protest?? 09:10 - Tha Games We Playin' 15:58 - {DEFAULT} - Tips to avoid burning out 32:18 - THE PICK: Elden Ring

This was recorded in April but here we are in June lol. Enjoy the episode! Elden Ring is recorded and up next! Timestamps: 01:30 - Housekeeping 02:10 - Tha Games We Playin' 09:18 - {DEFAULT} - What are we grappling with? 31:50 - THE PICK: Dark Souls III

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. This week we cover Bloodborne!

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. This week we cover God of War! Timestamps: 02:22 - Housekeeping 03:53 - Best standalone Marvel movie 15:10 - The Games We Playin 24:33 - {DEFAULT} Segment: Do games inherently "gatekeep"? 43:41 - THE PICK - God of War 2018 2:06:50 - Favorite kill in GOW 3

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. Jared has dreamed of the day he might be able to play Sony console exclusives--and that day is finally here! The second of the bunch, Horizon Zero Dawn, is a testament to the power of single player experiences and the importance of committing to an original vision. Does the game capture the magic Jared experienced when seeing ads for the game? Does Josh think Breath of the Wild is the obviously better same-day release? Is this a game that is better left to the ash heap of history? Listen, then let us know what you think! Timestamps: 00:39 - Housekeeping 01:47 - Best locations in Europe 06:54 - The Games We Playin 21:54 - {DEFAULT} segment -- Predicted winner of The Game Awards 2022 29:37 - THE PICK: Horizon Zero Dawn

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. Revisiting the 2011 release of Skyward Sword is bound to come along with extra baggage like nostalgia and shattered expectations, but for Jared the Casual, this game is brand new. So will he see the flaws in its nature? Get swept up in the Zelda hype? How will playing Breath of the Wild BEFORE Skyward Sword affect his perspective? Does Josh consider Skyward Sword the greatest Zelda game of all time? Listen and see! Timestamps: 01:14 - Housekeeping 05:55 - The Games We Playin 27:48 - {DEFAULT} segment -- Is Mario an open-world RPG? 37:07 - THE PICK: Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. Jared's hope is that Shadow of the Colossus lives up to the awestruck moment he saw Josh playing it in college. Since then, he's wanted a Playstation console to try what appears to be an epic title in the gaming industry. Is that the case? Does the game hold up in 2022? Listen and find out! Timestamps: 03:05 - Housekeeping 06:50 - The Games We Playin 16:40 - {DEFAULT} segment -- Most anticipated game of 2022 24:42 - THE PICK: Shadow of the Colossus

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. Josh and Jared start of the new year with a new look, sound, and title! Join us as we choose our personal picks for each game award, topped off of course with the Official Game of the Year. Timestamps: 00:30 - Housekeeping 01:53 - Long-overdue COVID talk 07:55 - The Games We Playin 23:26 - {DEFAULT} segment -- 2022 goals and ambitions 30:11 - Game of the Year Awards! 30:50 - Best Moment 37:16 - Most Funner 42:44 - Worst Experience 56:09 - Top Story 1:02:15 - Favorite Character 1:08:25 - Biggest Surprise / Underdog 1:17:12 - Most Disappointing 1:27:17 - Best Multiplayer 1:32:31 - Game of the Year!!

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. We're back and chatting Metroid Dread! Timestamps: 00:30 - Housekeeping 02:44 - Tha Games We Playin' 10:37 - THE PICK: Metroid Dread

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. Josh and Jared get right back into the "git gud" genre with another title from the From Software catalog: 2019's Sekiro. Do Jared and Josh survive what many call From's hardest title? Will it have a chance at the Hall of Games, or are there too many gripes with the game's harsh design choices to keep it from entering? Listen to this week's Bard's Backlog to hear about t! Timestamps: 01:00 - Housekeeping 06:05 - Tha Games We Playin' 16:13 - {DEFAULT} - Using time to achieve success 32:49 - THE PICK: Sekiro

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. Josh and Jared take a break from the "git gud" video games and pick up a comfort title. Despite appreciation for the break, does Outer Worlds stand a chance amongst the greats of the Hall of Games? Also this week, the two debut their FIRST official Reaping of the Hall! What is the best game we've reviewed thus far? Should we replace a game in the great Hall with another eligible competitor? All this and more in a jam-packed episode of Bard's Backlog! Timestamps: 02:03 - July 4th stories 08:35 - Housekeeping 09:18 - Alice's letter 10:08 - Favorite horror setting? 16:50 - Tha Games We Playin' 24:48 - {DEFAULT} - The Backlog Reaping 2021 56:45 - THE PICK: The Outer Worlds

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. Jared hosts again this week, and the boys tackle their SECOND platform nominated for the Hall: Retro's Tropical Freeze! Will a typical 2D platformer have a hard time getting into the great Hall? Does Donkey Kong have enough DRIP to lead his family into the hallowed grounds?? Was Jared ticked at the game's difficulty? Listen to the episode to find out! Timestamps: 00:45 - Housekeeping 08:48 - Tha Games We Playin' 27:00 - {DEFAULT} - What's your conversation turn-off? 37:25 - THE PICK: Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. Jared and Josh face perhaps the most testing video game ever to be nominated: the infamous, the beloved, DARK SOULS. Does Jared's casual-ness get in the way of the game's vision? Was Josh able to FINALLY beat a Souls game? What gripes, fears, and struggles were realized in their painful journeys through Lordran? All this is discussed and more in the longest Bard's Backlog yet! Timestamps: 02:37 - Housekeeping 06:11 - Guilty pleasure meals 13:24 - Coffee brands for intermittent fasting 16:00 - Tha Games We Playin' 26:11 - {DEFAULT} - Most anticipated 2021 game 31:46 - THE PICK: Dark Souls 33:40 - First and overall impressions 1:12:38 - Playability 1:25:44 - Gameplay 1:58:46 - Backtracking 2:07:57 - Favorite NPCs, bosses, and encounters 2:22:14 - World design 2:41:30 - Story 2:52:52 - Visuals 2:56:32 - How it has destroyed our relationships 2:58:30 - Final gripes 3:02:23 - Verdict

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. This time, Jared and Josh tackle the Internet darling, Undertale! Do Sans, Papyrus, and co. win over our critical hearts? Or does its simplicity undermine what would otherwise be a classic? Check out our conversation—and learn a bit about history along the way! Timestamps: 02:36 - Dust Bowl trivia 04:13 - Housekeeping 07:10 - Favorite US President? 18:58 - Tha Games We Playin' 28:43 - {DEFAULT} - REAL OR FAKE: Mario Rabbids Weapons 35:56 - Mortal Kombat movie talk 38:25 - THE PICK: Undertale 1:58:26 - MEGALOVANIA

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. This time, Jared and Josh take a long look at perhaps the weirdest AAA Switch title - Mario + Rabbids! How did these two franchises collide? WHY would you combine them? Is it any good at all? Listen and discover a truly strange marriage between Ubisoft and Nintendo, and find out if it makes it into the Hall of Games! Timestamps: 03:47 - Housekeeping 06:29 - Tha Games We Playin' 22:10 - {DEFAULT} - If we had one perfect remake we could will into existence, what would we choose? 30:53 - THE PICK: Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. After a hiatus meant to give more time with the pick this week, Josh listens to Jared RANT about the latest addition to the Fire Emblem franchise. Is this ambitious strategy game capable of pulling off its lofty goals? Or does it eventually collapse under its complexities? Listen and see what we thought of a game many hail as one of the finest Nintendo Switch games! Timestamps: 09:45 - Housekeeping 10:32 - Best anime op's? 18:02 - Tha Games We Playin' 27:32 - {DEFAULT} - What virtual worlds would be fun to inhabit? 34:28 - THE PICK: Fire Emblem: Three Houses

Email askvgb@gmail.com to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. This week, Josh and Jared gush over quite possibly the best rogue-like of all time (and perhaps the actual GOTY for 2020?). An obvious pick for the Hall of Games, check out our dissection of Hades and its appeal. Listen and find out why it's such a shoe-in for the Hall! Timestamps: 06:52 - Housekeeping 10:49 - Should we be a confederacy? 17:44 - Tha Games We Playin' 31:12 - {DEFAULT} - Our video game origins 39:25 - THE PICK: Hades

Tweet @videogamebard or @JaredTBen to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game review & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, though that happens after the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. This week, Josh takes the helm once again to discuss a sleeper hit from 2020: Immortals: Fenyx Rising! Does this Breath of the Wild / Assassin's Creed / Saturday morning cartoon / Greek myth knockoff have enough cohesion to be worthy of entering the Hall of Games? Is it too much of a rip-off, or does it carve its own path successfully? Are Zeus and Prometheus funny or terrible? Listen and find out! Timestamps: 00:52 - Housekeeping 07:32 - What would you do if stuck in a time loop? 12:25 - Tha Games We Playin' 24:20 - {DEFAULT} - Too many remasters? 37:16 - THE PICK: Immortals Fenyx Rising

Tweet @videogamebard or @JaredTBen to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game infocast & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, before the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. This week, Josh and Jared FINALLY tackle the great JRPG Xenoblade Chronicles (specifically the Switch version). Does this insane experience repel Jared, and attract Josh? Or vice verse? Will the guys be able to handle all the Japanese tropes? Does the 11-year-old game deserve to be entered into the Hall of Games? Listen and see! Timestamps: 00:50 - Housekeeping 01:51 - The Games We Playin' 21:34 - {DEFAULT} - What motivates you?? 32:56 - THE PICK: Xenoblade Chronicles: DE

Tweet @videogamebard or @JaredTBen to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game infocast & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, before the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. This week, Josh and Jared present you with our meatiest episode yet as we categorize our Game of The Year awards for 2020! Timestamps: 01:06 - Housekeeping 03:35 - Our favorite chips 06:44 - The Games We Playin' 29:33 - {DEFAULT} - 2021 ambitions 34:57 - Game of the Year Awards!!

Tweet @videogamebard or @JaredTBen to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game infocast & deep dive show. Hosted by Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, before the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. This week, Josh and Jared catch up after a long period of time off! Timestamps: 00:30 - WE BACK 08:37 - Update on our gaming lives 35:00 - Jared Lore (A Default Segment)

Tweet @videogamebard or @JaredTBen to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. Welcome to the modern day. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game infocast & deep dive show. Hosted by videogamebard.com senior editor Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, before the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. Occasional interviews notwithstanding. This week, Josh and Jared finally nominate a long-standing favorite, and a game oft appearing in Tha Games We Playin segment: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. The two discuss the history of the Smash franchise and how it has impacted them over the years, as well as the game's insane amount of content and depth of play. But will that be enough to see the game entered into the Hall of Games? Listen and see! Timestamps: 01:54 - Housekeeping 04:28 - Tha Games We Playin 16:32 - PICK OF THE WEEK: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate 38:55 - Mid-Podcast Game - NAME THAT FRANCHISE

Tweet @videogamebard or @JaredTBen to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. Welcome to the modern day. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game infocast & deep dive show. Hosted by videogamebard.com senior editor Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, before the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. Occasional interviews notwithstanding. This week, Jared and Josh finally cover the 2020 release, Animal Crossing: New Horizons. A Godsend for the pandemic times, Animal Crossing represents the very definition of chill in video games. But is it enough to get it into the Hall of Games? Listen and find out. Timestamps: 03:13 - Housekeeping 14:18 - Tha Games We Playin 29:17 - Denver Development Group 30:43 - The Default Segment: GOTY of 2020 so far 36:46 - PICK OF THE WEEK: Animal Crossing: New Horizons PodcastVideoGamesGamingPhilosophyFamilyPodBacklog

Tweet @videogamebard or @JaredTBen to have your gaming questions, comments, and concerns addressed directly on the next podcast. Welcome to the modern day. This is Bard's Backlog, a weekly video game infocast & deep dive show. Hosted by videogamebard.com senior editor Joshua Gallegos, each episode discusses the game of the week and whether it can be entered into the esteemed Hall of Games, before the panel cracks open the strange {DEFAULT} segment. Occasional interviews notwithstanding. This week, Josh and Jared discuss the state of the union, upcoming video games and their eligibility for marriage, as well as the pick of the week, Moonlighter. Will the indie title make it into the Hall of Games, or will it receive the feared nixing? Listen and find out! Timestamps: 02:50 - Housekeeping 14:51 - Tha Games We Playin 20:10 - The Default Segment: KISS MARRY KILL - Upcoming 2020 Releases 39:05 - PICK OF THE WEEK: Moonlighter