Hey-ya, hey.
Oh look — fresh retro news.
You see, there’s a new Retronauts podcast. Yeah, that’s right, Retronauts. If you haven’t heard, it’s one of many retro gaming podcasts, and one of the best. Or more succinctly, it satisfies a certain niche: gaming history. Old-timey gaming podcasts are a motley bunch — while some are focused on gaming history (Retronauts), others (the wonderful Retro Force Go!) are more about those beautiful, passionate moments that got many so hooked on the genre. Aside from respective niches, though, you’ll find a healthy dose of history in both of these gems, and plenty of raw emotion and laughter as well.
The history focus of 1up podcast Retronauts is ridiculously well-researched. I wouldn’t be surprised if host Jeremy Parish writes a thorough book or two on gaming history in the future (yeah, yeah — in a better economy, perhaps). Also to expect from the podcast: thoughtful criticism, and insulting listeners. It’s also an extremely intelligent podcast, thanks to the knowledge (and vast vocabulary) of Parish. In the latest episode, Parish and Ray Barnholdt talk about the Gameboy’s 20 beautiful, weird, and green years of existence. Among other topics, there’s also tangential rambling and mailbag reading near the end (with Jenn Frank adding some nice, personal gaming anecdotes), but Parish is generally going for something more intimate with his retro game podcast — eschewing the “jackass circus” and going for small groups and focused discussions.
At times, though, organized podcasts feel like more work than play for those on the mics. And besides, I love listening to large groups talk over each other in excitement. So if you’re looking for something very playful, with spunk, then listen to Retro Force Go!, a Destructoid podcast. Its members aren’t equipped with the knowledge or research that Retronauts exemplifies, but they’re not too concerned about that anyway. Retro Force Go is (oddly enough) about laughing, friendship, and the love of games. And guess what? It’s extremely refreshing! The crew genuinely enjoys one another, making for an immesely satisfying listen. They may not know the minutia, the dork trivia — such as how to properly pronounce Cait Sith (it’s KET-SHE) — but honestly, while listening, I really don’t give a shit.
And it’s so full of energy!
So full of life!
Most of the liveliness is due to the forever cheerful and quirky Chad Concelmo. There’s a surprising honesty in his effeminate “BEST GAME EVAR!” proclamations, and even in his frequent, over-the-top laughter. Topher Cantler is also a highlight, with a deep voice that’s monotone yet quirky. He also has a simple, refreshing candor when speaking of his favorite games.
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Try taking one of these podcasts with you. You won’t regret it: it’s like having new, free friends (I typically pay for mine). And if possible, listen to them at work, especially if your dayjob coworkers aren’t as enthused about the medium as your nerdy, awesome self. I recommend giving the more critical Retronauts a go first, then trying the lovegasm of Retro Force Go!.
(1) Bitter, (2) Sweet.