Spawn Camp

This week, Tony and Angel discuss the distinction between quantity and quality, and how long is too long for game length.—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Tony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

This week, Angel and Tony gush about the punishingly fun Helldivers series and their hopes and expectations for the sequel.—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Tony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

Two diametrically opposed cinematic masterpieces were released on the same day: Barbie and Oppenheimer. Today we'll be covering the less emotionally destructive film, the one about the creation of the atomic bomb. New guest Shannon joins Tony and Angel to discuss this think-piece for the masses and how much it resonated with them.—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Tony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: TwitterShannon: Instagram

Way back in the year 2008 was the last time there was a major Writer's Guild of America (WGA) strike in Hollywood. Media is still facing the repercussions of the decisions and outcomes of that strike as we roll into the biggest strike in memory with joint support from the actor's guilds. Tony and Angel have come together to chat all about unions, why they are striking, and the tricky burden of creating art within capitalism.—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Tony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

Recently released on Apple+, the film 'Tetris' covers the storied history of one of the world's most ubiquitous games. Angel and Trinity discuss the franchise's history this week and share some of their favorite Tetrimino memorinos.Resources:Trailer for VR Tetris EffectTetris pro playing Tetris Effect—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Angel: Twitter

An overwhelming technical and cultural achievement, 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' has dominated theaters' public consciousness for a while now. This week, Angel and Trinity discuss the art and humans involved in bringing this phenomenon to the big screen.Resources:Popeye Screen testPaperman insights from animatorImpact of SpiderverseSpiderverse StoryboardsTron Uprising Trailer—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Angel: Twitter

The games of yesteryear used to be judged on how many times one could replay them before the cartridge would wear out, but it's a very different landscape now. This week we try to discern what makes certain media worth revisiting and also what we can relearn.—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Tony: Twitter | Instagram | Website

Get your station in order and prep your mise en place, we're doing a food-themed episode! This week we discuss the deep themes of the new streaming show The Bear and the films The Pig and The Menu.Vanity Fair clip—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Tony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

In October 2016, Playstation took foundational steps into virtual reality with the release of PSVR. It found moderate success when offering a premium experience at a (comparatively) affordable price point. This year, they will be doubling down on this endeavour with the aptly named PSVR2, leaving us with some questions. Tony has called upon Angel this week to explore what this could mean for the medium as a whole as well as cataloguing the herculean effort that goes into VR development. —Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Tony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

Everyone knows the pain of sitting down with friends to start a board game and realising just how daunting it can be to get started. This week Trinity is joined by Tony and Jess to discuss Wingspan: a game that is built a bit differently, gorgeously illustrated, and may become your new addiction.ContactSpawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteJess: Twitter

Sometimes games will dish out a ton of different ways to communicate, and other times gamers will develop their own systems of interaction through sheer willpower alone. Tony and Trinity have come together this week to chat about various in-game messaging systems, the benefits of making friends online, and how sometimes it's the best way to keep up with those closest to us.Surprisingly heartfelt VR Chat conversationContactSpawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | Website

Tony and Brendan have gotten together to discuss the newest Pokémon releases "Pokémon Scarlet" and "Pokémon Violet". They get into all the updates, some of the major bugs, and a look at what these instalments mean for the franchise's future. ContactSpawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | Website

It has been a long journey but Spawncamp has made it to 100 recordings! On this special episode, we've gathered messages from various guests and hosts (past and present) and an interview with Tony's parents! Thank you to all of our listeners and here's to 100 more!—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Tony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteOak: Twitter | Watchpoint OakAngel: TwitterTrey:  Twitter

A new deck-builder currently has the gaming world in an absolute vice grip, and we're here to tell you about it! Tony and Trinity have taken a deep dive into Marvel Snap's mechanics, inspiration from unlikely sources like Texas Hold'em, and much more.Marvel Snap announcement and overview—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Tony: Twitter | Instagram | Website

Hosts Tony and Jess have been keeping busy and have decided to dive into some hot takes before the winter season. Whether it's picking apart the new Netflix series 'The Watcher' or giving some initial impressions of Modern Warfare II (2022), there's something here for everyone.—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Tony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteJess: Twitter

Trinity is hosting this week alongside her brother, Troy! They wax poetic about growing up gaming together, sharing in memories of couch co-op, and sharing suggestions of the best things to play together.—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Hosts Tony and Jess recently visited the new attractions on offer at Disneyland Paris and are excited to chat about them. Joining them are theme park ride design veterans Angel and Trey to discuss this technology in-depth and exciting ride developments on the horizon.—Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook—Tony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteJess: Twitter Angel: TwitterTrey:  Twitter

This week Trinity got the chance to talk with Brandon Partner from People Can Fly. They chatted all about why they love gaming, breaking into the industry and how to pick themselves back up when things go wrong.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookBrandon: Linkedin

Orange leaves and fall winds bring in many unique experiences: corn mazes, layers, and… spooks? This week Trinity, Angel and Trey discuss their favourite fall activities and dive into what makes walkthrough experiences like haunted houses just so special.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookAngel: TwitterTrey:  Twitter

There's a truncated saying passed around gaming circles that disparages any game from the past as "old game is old". Angel and Tony have come together to not only push back against that notion but also highlight some truly unique experiences that older games can offer.Resource linksVideo Game History FoundationContactSpawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

Whether it's endless video essays on youtube or that one friend who thinks themselves a film buff there is a common critique that's often misplaced: pacing. Tony has joined with Angel this week to not only arm listeners with more precise language to help break down our favourite media, but also hopefully gain a deeper appreciation for just how hard it is to make films. Resource links Film analysis definitions Every Frame a Painting: Blocking Focus PullerContactSpawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

Finding joy in your favourite things can sometimes feel like an impossible task. This week Tony and Trinity have come together to share their tips on how to reconnect with your hobbies and ways to guard yourself against inevitable burnout.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | Website

Over 5 years in the making, the sleeper indie 'Stray' from BlueTwelve studios has finally been released and subsequently taken the gaming world by storm. Trinity and Angel have gathered together this week to discuss all things cats, the joy animal games can bring and much more! Little Kitty, Big City TrailerSkatebird TrailerSpawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookAngel: Twitter

Every so often as hosts we like to come together and dive deep into a term or topic with the hope it can be helpful. This week we're exploring the reasons, and potential fixes, for open-world fatigue. Whether you've sunk 400 hours into the Witcher 3 or dipped out of Breath of the Wild after finishing the plateau, there's something here for everyone.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

Late in July of 2022, a rare event stirred up the dedicated community of a 5-year-old game, promising an unrevealed secret. Countless fans came together to craft theories about this rare mystery until its recent conclusion, and in this episode, Trey walks us through the whole story. We also talk about Alternate Reality Games (ARGs) and how sometimes a game really is the friends you make along the way.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookAngel: TwitterTrey:  Twitter

Whether it's the recent Amazon Lord of the Rings instalment 'The Rings of Power' or the Star Wars prequels of yesteryear, entertainment media is going through an era of banking on backstory. This week we have gathered together to discuss why prequels are so financially appealing, potential fixes for the future, and why these stories that fill in the blanks may not be such a bad thing. Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

All forms of art could put forth a better effort of representing women, but maybe none more so than games. Tony is joined this week by Trinity to talk all things games representation, systemic anti-women culture, and the misguided history of attempts to make non-male characters. Lord of the Rings SupercutLimit Break MentorshipBechdel Movie TestSpawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | Website

It's time for a recommendation round-up! Every so often we'll pick a theme and give out some fantastic examples of work we all think is worth your time to check out. Whether you're showing these beloved properties to friends or trying them out for the first time, we hope these can be an eye-opening selection!Kirby's Air RideGrisFlorenceJourneyThomas Was AloneYonderThe Stanley ParableSpawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

With the hubbub of game announcement season over, we're all left to give our impressions while sorting through the pieces. This week we cover the second half of all the showcases, including the Xbox/Bethesda Showcase, Squenix Final Fantasy Anniversary stream, and announcements from one of our very own. Don't forget to check the links below for looks at some of our favourites!Catch up on everything so far (presented by TechRadar)Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteTrey:  TwitterAngel: Twitter

Video game reveal season is upon us! E3, what used to be the paragon of game conventions, has been superseded by Summer Games Fest (created and hosted by Geoff Keighley). This week we cover the first half of all the showcases, including the Playstation State of Play, SGF Proper, and Day of the Devs. Don't forget to check the links below for looks at some of our favourites!Catch up on everything so far (presented by TechRadar)Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

This week we welcome the inclusion of our star editor behind the scenes: Jessica! Along with Angel and Tony, she's here to fill us in on the podcast crew's recent convention travels to MCM London Comic-Con and Star Wars Celebration. We discuss cosplay, the welcoming atmosphere of fellow fans', and more!Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

Ever since its release, Slay the Spire has shaped the genre of deck builders and the rules they follow. This week, Tony and Trinity have banded together to discuss the surprising lineage of the deck builder genre and make guesses at the exciting directions this genre can go in the future. Slay the SpirePirates OutlawsDominionSpawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

[Spoiler FREE]The concept of the multiverse used to be purely theoretical; discussed only within the circles of science and philosophy. But if recent films are anything to go on, there is plenty of space in the multiverse for narratives that explore the human condition.This week Tony, Angel and Brendan have joined forces to discuss Marvel's newest blockbuster Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness and the arthouse film Everything, Everywhere all at Once to see how they connect and what they can tell us about ourselves. Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

There are many complex issues in preserving video games: changing console generations, live services, region locking, and more. So what can be done to overcome these problems and, more importantly, when will games be preserved like other more 'traditional' forms of art? Angel is joined this week by Tiffany and Trey to discuss all these questions and more!Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookAngel: TwitterTrey:  Twitter

Reality television is a genre all its own, and the stories that it crafts can profoundly affect how we view the world and ourselves. This week, Angel and Tony are joined by Emily to give an insider's perspective on this topic and explore the questions we should ask ourselves when we consume these shows. Take a listen!Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: TwitterEmily: Instagram

You wake up after a terrible accident and find yourself in a new, unfamiliar world. Why is there an adventurer's guild, why do you see a heads up display, and why is everyone wearing such weird clothes?This week, Angel and Tony have gotten together to chat about what makes an Isekai anime, give some recommendations, and examine how gaming mechanics can ultimately inform the types of stories we tell. Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

Sometimes putting these episodes together can be quite the mental and emotional drain. So this week Tony, Angel and Brendan have come together to share some of their experiences with mental health and some (hopefully) helpful stories as well.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: TwitterTalbot: Instagram

The newest animated endeavour from Pixar and Disney, Turning Red brings smiles and some surprisingly deep insights into the struggles of being a pre-teen girl. This week we are joined by Trinity to talk about the emotional moments that brought us to tears, and the exciting implications this means for the future of bringing more women into storytelling.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

For years JK Rowling has been disappointing her fans by supporting some extremely questionable positions. This difficult attachment to such a formative cultural movement makes the discourse around the new game Hogwarts Legacy that much more difficult to decipher. This week Angel and Tony chat about 'death of the author,' some of the game mechanics shown off and more!State of Play for Hogwarts Legacy Gamespot Article on JK RowlingSpawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

We already know there's too much content about Elden Ring, but this week we wanted to focus on some of the unique design decisions that go into From Soft's games. Joining Angel, Tony, and Brendan this week is Talbot, a new guest with a love of souls games. They discuss open-world storytelling, esoteric control schemes and much more!Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: TwitterTalbot: Instagram

Five years after Nintendo's launch of the Switch, Valve has released their own handheld console: the Steamdeck. This introduction of new hardware to the mobile gaming sphere has sparked our admiration and nostalgia for gaming on the go. Tony and Angel are joined by a new guest this week, Trinity, to discuss Nintendo Switch passion, share stand-out memories, and more!Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

There's a unique quirk to the games industry where marketing and development can work against one another. Especially with larger releases, the more information is kept from the public the better the overall reception might be. This week Tony and Angel are joined by Alex to discuss their history with succumbing to the hype, diving into examples that found success regardless, and even sharing some tips on how to break the hype cycle entirely.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

Navigating a landscape of free-to-play 'gatcha' games can be tricky, but Mihoyo's Genshin Impact offers a world brimming with wonder without asking too much of the player. This week Angel has brought Tony on to gush about Impact's open-world, measure what it borrows from competitors, and maybe convince him to play along the way.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

Polyphony Digital has been featured in their very own Playstation State of Play to give details on the forthcoming Gran Turismo 7. This week Tony and Angel come together to chat about the technical powerhouse car simulator, a look at their history in the industry and more!Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

One of the largest potential mergers in not only games history, but economic history, is now set to occur following Microsoft's announcement of its intention to purchase  Activision Blizzard King. This week Tony and Brendan come together to discuss not only the far-reaching consequences this could have for the games industry landscape as a whole but, even more importantly, the potential human cost involved.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | Website

The final of the top 3 heavy-hitter console game developers we're looking forward to from 2022 is Playstation! Angel and Tony dive into the most anticipated Playstation sequels, as well as cover what the future of PSVR2 could mean for this console generation.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

The next of the top 3 heavy-hitter console game developers we're looking forward to from 2022 is Xbox! Angel, Tony and Trey give an overview of what Microsoft has on their schedule, as well as cover which projects might be most successful.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: TwitterTrey:  Twitter

It's a brand new year here at Spawn Camp and we're all ready to dive into what amazing things 2022 has in store for the top 3 heavy-hitter console gaming developers! Starting off, Angel and Tony will be taking a look at what Nintendo has on their schedule, as well as making predictions of what things are still unannounced.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

Finally, the time has come for going over the cinematic event that is Spider-Man: No Way Home! Be warned that this week Tony and Angel will be diving into spoilers and all of the incredible aspects of this newest cinematic entry into the rich tapestry of spidey content over the last few decades.Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteAngel: Twitter

It's officially Spider-Man season but not everyone has gotten the chance yet to experience the movie event that is 'Spider-Man: No Way Home'. In light of that, your hosts Tony and Trey have gathered together to chat about all the spidey cinema over the years that has led up to this point, including the Sam Raimi and Marc Webb films!Spawncamp: Twitter | Instagram | FacebookTony: Twitter | Instagram | WebsiteTrey:  Twitter