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In this episode of the Winning Hand podcast, hosts Leethus, Boomguy, and LazyTitan discuss the card of the day, Throg, a unique aggression ally from Marvel Champions. They delve into the mechanics, gameplay experiences, and thematic elements of Throg, highlighting his strengths and weaknesses. The conversation also includes a giveaway announcement, a creator spotlight, and a segment where Boomguy attempts to learn about Throg's comic background: "Boomguy Doesn't Read Comics". The hosts share their recent gameplay experiences and provide a thorough review of Throg, ultimately giving him high ratings for his versatility and fun factor in gameplay. Link to the giveaway: https://forms.gle/8i1iasRgSgkFdhvS9 We are choosing two winners every Monday in December, so get entered to win the cards! (We will send them anywhere in the world.) Link to the video on the cards we are giving away: https://youtu.be/_FHGytieRPw?si=zks_CrQyDuNJ2e8d Creator Spotlight: https://www.youtube.com/@solomarvelchampion We are looking for feedback from the community that listens to this show, so please get in touch to let us know what you think of the podcast, and please take time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, it really makes a difference! Email: winninghandpodcast@gmail.com IG: @winninghandpodcast Discord: Boomguy / Leethus / LazyTitan421 Facebook: Winning Hand Podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Winning Hand Podcast 02:07 Community Engagement and YouTube Content 06:09 Giveaway Announcement and Participation 07:57 Creator Spotlight: Solo Marvel Champion 10:23 Boom Guy Doesn't Read Comics: Throg 18:10 Throg in the MCU 18:43 Comic Canon and Character Status 20:06 Recent Gameplay Experiences 24:25 Reflections on the Latest Hero Wave 29:01 Exploring the Newest Mutant Heroes 33:20 Throg: The Frog Thor Card Review 41:11 The Power of Throg 43:35 The Value of Tough Cards 48:11 Throg's Versatility in Decks 53:26 Final Thoughts on Throg
Episode 22 of Matt and Mike (and Melissa) Read Comics dives into Joss Whedon's run on Astonishing X-Men. On the heels of Grant Morrison's bizarre, confusing, and often downright boring run on New X-Men, the camp and straightforward superhero storytelling of Joss Whedon was a true breath of fresh air. The classic yellow-and-blue themed suits are back. A new team is formed. A new villain arrives from another planet with a cryptic message about the power of a mutant destroying their homeworld. And on top of all of that, a “cure” for mutants. And…AND in a stroke of brilliant storytelling Whedon pulls off a move that has since been so reused that it almost feels stale, but when this book came out it was a truly remarkable comic moment - the return of Colossus. A character that had been dead in comics for years makes a stunning and cinematic return in Astonishing X-Men. Whedon and the late John Cassady craft one of the best X-Men storylines in the 21st century with Astonishing X-Men and you all should be reading this.
The Justice Society returns (again), three out of continuity Bat-books, Redcoat ends his first arc, Black Hammer is resurrected, and the Lower Deckers find a ship from Kirk's animated series.
Episode 21 of Matt and Mike (and I guess Melissa) Read Comics takes place in the world of Planetary. A byproduct of the early days of Image, and Wildstorm in particular, Planetary ranks as one of the most unique comics that we've ever read. Masterfully crafted storytelling by Warren Ellis and the late John Cassady with deeply flawed yet likable characters, Planetary truly takes you on a ride. You aren't immediately certain where that ride is taking you, but as the layers eventually fall back and the story truly begins to blossom and connect, you see why this series is so well regarded. We had a lot of fun reading this one.
Diana and the Giant Crab, Bruce mourns his love--again, Geiger and his good dog, Redcoat may be dead for good this time, Foxes and Cats shut down a brothel, while Frannie loses her friend and gains a dad.
On this week's Nattering With E, Eric is joined by longtime pal and one-half of ROH Revelry, Derry New Hampshire's own, Will Mercier. The duo briefly talk about the recent @DestinyWrestling super show Summer Heat, and then delve into the world of comic books, and how Will got into them. A blast of a conversation, and a possible brainstorming session for some upcoming podcasts. Show notes: Nattering With E - Eric @ericfreeds on Twitter and natteringwithe@gmail.com Guest - Will @Wmercierjr Fan Club - @High5Tom Tom
Jon and Justin talk comics and show off some graded stuff.
Let's all take our seats—it's Crisis 315: INFINITE Crisis! GOLDEN AGE SUPERMAN HAS MADE A TERRIBLE MISTAKE--IS THERE TIME ENOUGH TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT? AND WHAT OF SUPERBOY-PRIME???
Episode 20 of Matt and Mike Read Comics is magical. We dive into the weird world created by Neil Gaiman in the Books of Magic. Taking place in the DC universe, The Books of Magic follows young Tim Hunter as he is approached by the Trenchcoat brigade and asked to make a decision; be involved in the world of magic or not. Tim can either become the greatest magician to ever live, or the most evil. The choice would be his and familiar faces like John Constantine and Mister E are there to help show him the possible ramifications of his decision. Very much in the voice of Nail Gaiman, and featuring some of his other classic characters, this book delivers a beautiful story about choice and the future. Special guest Melissa is back on the pod!!
Episode 19 of Matt and Mike Read Comics is a special occasion because we are starting on one of my favorite comic series that I've read in the last decade, Locke and Key. Written by Joe Hill and illustrated by the insanely talented Gabriel Rodriguez, this comic is a fantasy horror tale that expertly weaves in a coming-of-age story for its teen and preteen protagonists. Asking the question of “what if” in a house full of magical keys, the Locke children will learn that the imagination of a child is truly that, and that it can be deadly.
Geiger's Best Friend needs a rescue, Washington and the lying cherry tree, Past and future DC teams collide, the return of Elseworlds, a depressing parable, and the Strip Club of Dr. Moreau.
Marvel announces this year's comics in their Trick-Or-Read program. Brian Azzarello explains why he left DC Comics. It's Dan Slott's birthday. All on Comic Book Club News for July 3, 2024.SUBSCRIBE ON RSS, APPLE, ANDROID, SPOTIFY, OR THE APP OF YOUR CHOICE. FOLLOW US ON TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, TIKTOK, AND FACEBOOK. SUPPORT OUR SHOWS ON PATREON.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
On episode 18 of Matt and Mike Read Comics we dive into the world of Southern Bastards. Another wonderful recommendation from Mike, Southern Bastards starts off as a seemingly run-of-the-mill reluctant-loner-saves-the-day sort of story set in the deep south where football runs all, even crime. Despite it's on-the-surface paint by numbers plot, the characters are suprisingly deep and relatable. And then just when you think it's going to be a tale you've heard before, the presumtive hero gets killed. Now what? I did NOT see that twist coming and then the story really takes off. Needless to say, I am excited to read more of this series!
GL's love story wraps up, Bruce checks out the League, Simon's days are numbered, more videogame cutscenes, The Cowboy takes the law into his own hands, Rivers of London (now with less Peter), and we take a trip back to Belle River.
On episode 17 of Matt and Mike Read Comics we read Cereal from Ahoy comics. It's a perfectly satirical blend of What We Do In the Shadows, Monster Squad, and of course breakfast cereal. This book is hilarious in many ways while still telling a captivating and coherent story about war and love. And also cereal. Breakfast is Matt's favorite meal of the day and Mike loves his breakfast cereal so this book was a match made in heaven. Written by Mark Russell and illustrated by Peter Snjeberg, this book is a must read.
Batman: Knightfall on episode 16 of Matt and Mike Read Comics. The classic story where Batman finally lost and the introduction of the truly terrifying villain known as Bane. Batman's rogues gallery is hard to compare to, but rarely had there been a villain like Bane. Others had come close to beating Batman, but never truly succeeded. Bane's desire to both know and beat his enemy was a new approach to villainy in the Batman world. Following Batman's defeat, Jean Paul Valley takes up the mantle in the most 90's way possible. We cover it all on this episode of Matt and Mike Read Comics.
Episode 15 of Matt and Mike Read Comics goes into one of the most legendary stories in all of comics lore - the Dark Phoenix saga as featured in Uncanny X-Men. Most people in Matt's generation will remember first seeing this story played out in the original 90's animated show on Fox Kids, but the original story was published in comics easily 15 years earlier. It was the first time in comics where a hero of Jean Grey's stature and tenure was truly and entirely killed. It was a landmark moment in comics that set the stage for years to come.
Dive into literary adventures with Have U Read, the hot new Monthly Book Club brought to you by your pals at UP UP & AWAY! Each month we're shining a spotlight on a fantastic Graphic Novel for the ultimate group read and lively discussion. For April, we're discussing vol. 1 of Ultimate Spider-Man vol. 1 by Bendis and Bagley. Find Us Online at the Following Outlets Website :: upupandawaycomics.com YouTube :: youtube.com/@upupawaycomics Facebook :: facebook.com/upupaway and facebook.com/uuablueash Instagram :: instagram.com/upupawaycomics Twitter :: twitter.com/upupawaycomics
Ghost Machine is up and running, The Golden Age Legionnaire is unmasked, Diana and Clark hang out at the mall, Bruce begins his Dark Age, the Cowboy is busy with Joan, Minor Threats return, while Black Hammer takes a final bow.
Matt and Mike Read Comics episode 14 is the final part in our Starman series. For those of you just coming to the party, Mike and I have been reading the two gigantic compendiums of James Robinson's run on Starman. This is a run on a title that flies under the radar (I didn't know about it until Mike introduced me to it) but HOLY SHIT. HOLY SHIT. It's been a long time since I've read such a complete and engaging story with rich characters and plot threads that stretch throughout the entire narrative and resolve in the most satisfying ways. It's just a master class in storytelling and some of the best comic work I've ever read. Seriously. Absolutely brilliant work by James Robinson. Let's not forget the art. Tony Harris took up most of the penciling duties in the first compendium, but in the second compendium we are treated to a plethora of artists who all bring their unique perspectives to this sprawling story. Incredible, through and through. Top tier comic book. Everyone must read. All of it.
Matt and Mike Read Comics is back with episode 13, part 2 of our Starman series, by James Robinson and Tony Harris. If you're wondering why we need two parts, and even three, to discuss this series; just look at the size of the compendiums! There are well over 2,000 pages of comics gold here. They're like really awesome textbooks. Following up on the back half of the first compendium, we see Ted Knight really start to come into his own as a reluctant hero. We learn SO much more about the history of the Shade and his generations-long blood feud with the Ludlows. Here is where the brilliant cast of supporting characters in Starman really start to shine. David, the Shade, the Mist, the O'Dare family, and one of my personal favorites, Bobo Bennetti. Part 3 coming soon. James Robinson and Tony Harris' run on Starman is a must read for all comic book fans.
Jay and Judy are off to Rio, Joan fights the Man, a Giffen tribute, you've got Fishflies in your basement, Wesley wraps things up, and we bid a fond farewell to Fables.
Let's all take our seats—it's Crisis 315b: INFINITE Crisis!
We may have misnumbered the episode inside. S orry!
Derek and Ian talk about their favorite ways to consume comic book media. Also in this episode Is it wrong to post spoilers on Social Media? Marvel crew member tragically lost his life on Wonder Man set. Gina Carano sues Disney of Mandalorian firing! Let us know your thoughts on all of the topics covered on this episode. Support the show by clicking right HERE! Follow Derek on Nerd Initiative! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/paperweightentertainment/support
Let's all take our seats—it's Crisis 315a: INFINITE Crisis!
Matt and Mike are back after the holiday break and we are still reading comics! On episode 12 we start our multi-part breakdown of the legendary 90's run of Starman, by James Robinson and Tony Harris. Collecting almost 100 issues and reinventing the character for a new generation, Robinson crafts the story of a reluctant hero who has superheroing in his blood. Jack Knight's father, Ted Knight, was the first Starman decades ago, a member of the Justice Society with such legends as Jat Garrick, the first Flash, and Alan Scott, the first Green Lantern. Listen to us unpack the story of Jack Knight and his cast of supporting characters, such as the amoral Shade, the villainous Mist, and the crazy O'Dare family of cops.
Wesley dreams, Hughes schemes, Superman gets Un-Lost, Fables and Black Hammer race to the finish, Frannie goes on a walkabout, and Dickie breaks bad.
We've got a whole set of Golden Age titles, Danger Street's final hurrah, Joan's return, Ghost Machine's setup, and The Lightning Round.
Alan gets the treatment, World's Finest film stories, Fire runs a reality show from a cave, and JLI 101.
On episode 11 of Matt and Mike Read Comics, Matt and Mike read I Am Legend…the comic! Yes, the legendary and timeless novel from Richard Matheson got a comic book adaptation in the 80's and it's a sight to behold. Truly a graphic novel, Steven Niles and Elman Brown adapt the story with gripping words and beautiful art. The art, specifically, is very unique as it is only pencils and ink. With very little dialogue - mostly because the main character, Robert Neville spends the bulk of the story by himself - the story is truly told with words and accompanying pictures. Very unique in the world of comics and a truly special read. Much better than the shitty Will Smith movie.
It's Deus Ex Strange, collecting a set of super-villains, Sandman v. Sandman, watch out for Ro-Bears, a mess of corpses in the kitchen, the birth of Ghost Machine, the Adventures of Frannie and the Bug, and it's not looking good for Black Hammer.
Episode 10 of Matt and Mike Read Comics is the ultimate…universe. Remember this thing? It's hard to believe that this grim and bleak alternate version of the Marvel universe populated by absolute dickhead “heroes” is what the MCU that we all know and love is based off of. Mark Millar and Marvel wanted to shock people with their borderline insane take on the beloved heroes of Marvel who are normally likable. These Ultimates (the Avengers) are not likable in any way. Except for Hawkeye. Hawkeye rules in these books. We take a look at the first three Ultimate story arcs and how they make their key heroes progressively less likable. Read Ultimate Spider-Man instead
Three new tales of Golden Age greats, Clark argues with himself, rehab for "super" villains, new champions are chosen on Danger Street, and a call for The Lightning Round.
Matt and Mike Read Comics episode 9 is a Star Wars special. Matt and Mike (and Melissa) round up the complete Darth Vader run by Kieron Gillen and Salvador Larroca. These stories take place in between the original trilogy and focus on Vader's own machinations against the Emperor and the Emperor's bizarre quest to possibly replace Vader. Melissa has some good questions for us and we educate her as true comic book aficionados would. Recorded at the Secret Stash!
Let's all take our seats—it's Crisis 314b: Identity Crisis!
Green dreams of Fishflies, Randall Weird--comic writer, Dickie remembers it all, Harley gets Redder, General Immortus has waxy buildup, Two Wyverns too many, and Justin is released into the wild.
It's Bwah-Ha-Ha in Smallville, JSA's sidekicks return to reality, an evil CEO recruits The Chief, Clark finds out the truth about Hope, we're reaching The End of Black Hammer, when is a dragon not a dragon, and a philosophical battle on Danger Street.
On episode 8 of Matt and Mike Read Comics we tackle the first part of Marv Wolfman and George Perez's legendary run on Teen Titans. The NEW Teen Titans to be exact. Breathing new life into long standing characters and introducing us to incredible new ones, this run on Teen Titans defined the team and its members for years to come and inspired much of what came after.
Let's all take our seats—it's Crisis 314a: Identity Crisis!
Episode 7 of Matt and Mike Read Comics takes a definitive look at the 90's classic, Marvel vs DC. Who REALLY should have won these matchups? And remember that bonkers ass Amalgam Universe that followed the epic throwdown? Turns out that it was actually pretty cool, for the most part. Let's bring that back!
Martin Casas Co-Owner Apotheosis Comics and Lounge joins Debbie and Tom in studio talking about 'Read Comics in Public' Day. © DAMON HIGGINS/THE PALM BEACH POST / USA TODAY NETWORK
Two more views of Harley, Let's play a game on Danger Street, Cornell's back at the Con, and building a super-babyproof home.
Matt and Mike Read Comics get into Treasury Editions on episode 6. What's a Treasury Edition you ask? We'll tell you all about it. These are definitely some of the classic covers you have seen, but maybe never read, such as Muhammad Ali squaring off in the ring against Superman, Spider-Man and Superman clashing at the top of the Empire State Building, The Flash racing Superman, and many more. Let's have some fun with these giant, literally, comics
The JSA of yesterday, today, and tomorrow unite, Joan is put in a home, Rivers of London delivers dragons, Hope returns to SourcePoint, and the second half of the first issue of Fishflies.
Episode 5 of Matt and Mike Read Comics is a tribute to the legend, John Romita Sr., who recently passed away. Matt and Mike talk about his legacy, special issues, and his lasting impact on comics that will live on long after we're all gone.
Harley gets Redder, Lady Cop gets a name, The Doom Patrol goes to therapy, Superman finds Hope, Paul Cornell attends a Con, Sunstar learns his secret origin, and the (smaller) circus comes to San Diego.
Matt and Mike Read Comics episode 4 is all about Astro City. Dropping in 1995 like an atom bomb in the comics world, Astro City was a refreshing take on comics in the middle of the extreme era of comics. We all know that mainstream comics in the 90's were flooded with big guns, exaggerated muscles, gigantic shoulderpads, fingerless gloves, those weird head protectors, and pouches. So. Many. Pouches. Astro City was a major throwback to the golden age of comics where the heroes had silly names and sometimes even sillier costumes; a world that revolved around a fictional city where there was never a question about the heroes intentions. But as you read on, Astro City quickly becomes something else, masterfully incorporating more modern and darker takes on comics, weaving an interconnected tale while spotlighting the champions of Astro City. A must read for all comic book fans.
Matt and Mike Read Comics Episode 3 is here! With all of the recent DC movie news the last few months, we thought it would be appropriate to educate you on what may be a lesser known title that's getting its own movie: The Authority. Originating in Image Comics with Wildstorm, this no-nonsense team is insanely powerful and has an attitude to go with it. We break down all the gory details. Written by Warren Ellis and illustrated by the incomparable Brian Hitch.