Podcast Summary
Console launches, games, and archaeology: TripleClick podcast discusses the importance of a successful console launch, shares insights from an archaeologist on Viking history, and emphasizes the value of listener support
TripleClick, a listener-supported podcast, offers unique insights into console launches, games, and even archaeology. The hosts, Kirk Hamilton, Matti Meyers, and Jason Schreier, discussed the importance of a good console launch and shared their thoughts on recent ones. They also welcomed an archaeologist, John House, who shared insights into the archaeological record of Vikings. The team emphasized the listener-supported nature of their show, encouraging listeners to join Maximum Fun and become a part of their community. They also highlighted the challenges of studying the Viking period due to its reliance on archaeology and the invisibility of Vikings in the archaeological record. The team also shared their approach to waiting for game releases until bugs are fixed and prices are more affordable.
Vikings as explorers, traders, and farmers: Despite their reputation as violent raiders, Vikings were also sophisticated explorers, traders, and farmers who integrated into local cultures, leaving lasting impacts on British history through place names and language.
Vikings were not just violent raiders as popularly portrayed, but also sophisticated explorers, traders, and farmers. While they did engage in raids and violence, they were also interested in settling down and integrating into local cultures. This is evident in the many place names and language integrations from the Viking era into British culture. The image of constant warfare between Vikings, Saxons, and Britons may be exaggerated, and the archaeological record shows less evidence of massacres and brutality than one might expect from Saxon literature. It's important to remember that history is often written from the perspective of the winners, and Saxon accounts may have biased portrayals of Vikings. In reality, Vikings and local populations likely had complex interactions, with both violence and trade occurring.
Archaeological Finds Shed New Light on Viking Raids: New discoveries challenge the violent image of Viking raids in England, revealing possible burial customs of elite warriors and collaborative work between archaeologists and developers.
The archaeological record of Viking raids in England may not be as violent as commonly portrayed. While the raid on Lindisfarne Priory is well-known, there isn't evidence of widespread fighting based on excavated skeletons. An intriguing find made by the speaker was a Saxon warrior buried on his shield, suggesting elite warriors may not always have carried swords. The grave was discovered during construction in a pub car park, unearthing a number of interesting graves with various grave goods. Despite common imagery of archaeologists as adventurous explorers, they often work in collaboration with developers during construction projects. Console launches, like the recent 9th generation, may seem exciting and revolutionary, but their significance and impact continue to be debated.
Console launches: Hit or miss experiences: Console launches can bring excitement and anticipation, but the initial lineup of games may not always live up to expectations
Console launches can be hit or miss experiences. Maddie and Jason shared their personal stories of buying consoles at launch, with Maddie's excitement for the GameCube and Jason's disappointment with the PlayStation 2's lackluster launch lineup. They discussed how the early 2000s were an era of filler games, and the real gems didn't come until later. Maddie's experience with the Wii U was different, as she bought it later in its life cycle when she was working for Kotaku. They also noted that console launches in the past were more staggered, with Japan getting the consoles first and the western markets following. Overall, their conversation highlighted the anticipation and excitement surrounding console launches, but also the potential for disappointment with the initial lineup of games.
Launch games mark significant moments in a gamer's life: Launch games can deeply impact a gamer's identity and create memorable experiences due to their unique and exciting nature.
Certain video games, particularly those released at console launches, can significantly impact a person's relationship with gaming. The speaker shares their personal experience of getting a GameCube in 2001 and how it marked a turning point in their gaming identity. They mention Super Smash Brothers Melee, Super Monkey Ball, and Luigi's Mansion as notable launch games for the console. However, the speaker also emphasizes that the significance of a launch game extends beyond just the game itself. It often represents a unique and exciting moment in a gamer's life, making the experience of playing that game especially memorable. The speaker also recalls Super Mario 64 as a quintessential launch game due to its groundbreaking impact on the gaming industry. Overall, the discussion highlights the emotional connection people can have with launch games and how they can shape one's gaming journey.
Nintendo's History of Setting the Bar High with Impressive Launch Titles: Nintendo's innovative launch titles, such as Mario 64 and Breath of the Wild, have set the standard for console experiences and established the company as a leader in the gaming industry.
Nintendo has a history of setting the bar high for console launches with impressive Mario games and innovative experiences. Mario 64 on the Nintendo 64 was a groundbreaking example, as it was the first 3D Mario game and fulfilled the promise of the console's capabilities. This trend continued with other consoles and games like Super Mario World, Luigi's Mansion on GameCube, and Breath of the Wild on the Switch. The success of these launch titles helped establish Nintendo as a leader in the gaming industry. Additionally, notable launches from competitors like Halo Combat Evolved on Xbox and Wii Sports on Wii introduced new genres and experiences to their respective audiences. Overall, the combination of innovative games and consoles has been a key factor in the success of these systems.
Waiting in line for the Nintendo Wii release: The Nintendo Wii's release in 2006 created a sense of community and excitement, with long lines, demos, and portable generators, but not everyone was able to secure a console at launch.
The release of the Nintendo Wii in 2006 was an unforgettable experience for many gamers, marked by long lines, exciting demos, and a sense of community. The speaker shares his personal story of waiting in line for the midnight launch in Times Square, where he was able to play demos of the game using portable generators while waiting. The atmosphere was festive and filled with anticipation, making the long wait worth it for many. However, not everyone was as lucky, and some, like the speaker's friend, were unable to get a Wii at launch despite multiple attempts. Despite the initial disappointment, the speaker was eventually able to get his hands on the console and was excited to explore its unique motion controls. Overall, the Wii's launch was a memorable moment in gaming history, bringing people together in a shared excitement for the future of gaming.
The Wii's unprecedented launch success due to Wii Sports: The Wii's launch success was driven by its pack-in game, Wii Sports, which turned the console into a social experience and caused a significant shortage of units for over two years.
The Wii console, which was released in 2006, became a cultural phenomenon due to its high demand and scarcity after launch. This was largely due to the popularity of its pack-in game, Wii Sports, which turned the console into a social experience and a party game. The Wii's unique controller and innovative gameplay set it apart from other consoles, leading to a significant shortage of units for several months. Unlike most consoles, which ebb and flow in availability, the Wii had a sustained shortage that lasted for over two years. The console's popularity grew gradually, with Wii Fit and other games contributing to its cultural impact. There hasn't been another console with a comparable launch experience since then, as most consoles don't rely on a single game to showcase their capabilities. The Switch, with its portable and TV-based gameplay, comes closest with games like 1-2 Switch and Breath of the Wild, but it didn't experience the same level of scarcity and immediate cultural impact as the Wii.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild's impact on Nintendo Switch's success: The launch of Breath of the Wild on the Nintendo Switch boosted sales and critical acclaim, attracting indie developers and cementing the console as a desirable option in the gaming market.
The launch of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on the Nintendo Switch was a significant moment in gaming history. The game's success helped establish the Switch as a desirable console, leading to a surge in sales and critical acclaim. Indie developers also benefited from the console's early success, experiencing increased sales during the system's first year due to a lack of available games. Jason, who was also present at the Switch's launch, shared his personal experience of being drawn to Nintendo consoles throughout his life, despite not having strong allegiances to any specific console brand. The conversation also touched on the console wars of the mid-2000s and the unique experiences that came with each exclusive title. Overall, the discussion highlighted the impact of innovative games and successful console launches on the gaming industry.
New console launches create a challenging market for gamers: Despite production constraints and high demand, the gaming industry is experiencing a surge in popularity with record-breaking console launches
The recent console launches, specifically the PS5 and Xbox Series X, have seen unprecedented demand, making it difficult for consumers to obtain these new gaming systems. This high demand, coupled with production constraints due to the pandemic, has led to a challenging market for gamers. Despite the difficulties, the industry is experiencing a surge in gaming popularity, with more people than ever playing games. The consoles' launches represent the biggest in history, indicating the growing trend of gaming's increasing popularity. The challenge of acquiring these new systems has added a new dimension to the console purchasing experience, making it feel like a game in itself. While it's unfortunate that not everyone can get their hands on these new consoles right away, the industry's growth is a positive sign for the future of gaming.
Console launches during the pandemic: Unusual and internet-dependent: The pandemic changed console launches with virtual queues, uncertainty, and reliance on the internet for functions. Players can now access their old games on new consoles, but delays, slowdowns, and supply issues have impacted the experience. Consoles are increasingly internet-dependent, requiring constant connectivity to function effectively.
The recent console launches during the pandemic have been unusual due to virtual queues, uncertainty, and the reliance on the internet for various functions. Unlike past console launches where gamers had to wait in long lines to secure a console and figure out which games to play, the new generation allows players to access their old library of games and enjoy them on the new consoles. The pandemic's impact on the months following the launch, with delays, slowdowns, and supply issues, will be a significant part of the console's legacy. Additionally, these consoles have become increasingly internet-dependent, making it difficult to use them without an active connection. Overall, the pandemic and the internet have significantly influenced the console launch experience, and we're now living in a future where consoles require constant connectivity to function effectively.
Discussing a game and a movie on 'Beef and Dairy Network': The podcast explores the rediscovery of a complex game and the portrayal of a real-life Hollywood figure in a comedy movie
The "Maximum Fun" podcast "Beef and Dairy Network" is a comedy show where two friends share their experiences and humor, with listeners having varying opinions about it. A recent episode featured discussions on a replayed game and a movie. The game, "13 Sentinels Aegis Rim," was initially bounced off but revisited and enjoyed more with better organization. The movie, "A Futile and Stupid Gesture," is about the National Lampoon and its founder, with Joel McHale playing a younger version of Chevy Chase, who had a tumultuous relationship with the cast during the filming of "Community." Despite past conflicts, Chevy Chase reportedly gave his blessing for McHale to portray him. The podcast episode also included a brief mention of a tragic story involving the National Lampoon founder.
Joel McHale's impression of Chevy Chase in 'The Cool Kids' vs Harmonix's latest release Fuser: McHale's portrayal of Chase impresses, Fuser focuses on personalized mashups but scoring system can reward technically correct but unsatisfying mixes
"Joel McHale's portrayal of Chevy Chase in the new movie "The Cool Kids" is impressive, as he captures the younger version of Chase's character from films like "Vacation" and "Fletch." Meanwhile, in the gaming world, Harmonix's latest release, Fuser, aims to improve upon the past with its focus on creating personalized mashups, an issue that was present in the 2009 game DJ Hero. While Fuser allows players to mix and match tracks to their liking, the game's scoring system can sometimes reward technically correct but musically unsatisfying mixes, making it a challenge to create a truly enjoyable and harmonious blend of tracks."
Music creation game: A teaser for the real deal: Though music creation games offer a fun introduction, they can't replace the depth and satisfaction of using professional music creation software.
While the music creation game discussed offers a tantalizing glimpse into the world of music production, it falls short of the satisfaction and depth found in real-life music creation software. The game provides a brief sensation of being a rock star or DJ, but the experience is not quite enough to replace the desire to create music using professional tools. The game's mixing features, though intended to teach newcomers, feel unsatisfying to those with experience, as they lack the complex and nuanced capabilities of professional software. Additionally, the game's use of auto-tune correction and the inability to create drum loops during live performances detracts from the authenticity of the experience. Overall, the game serves as a reminder of the appeal of music creation, but ultimately leaves players yearning for the full experience that professional software provides.
An intriguing blend of Assassin's Creed Odyssey and Breath of the Wild: Immortals: Fenyx Rising offers a beautiful open-world experience with challenging puzzles and engaging gameplay, combining the exploration and puzzle-solving elements of Breath of the Wild with the combat and movement mechanics of Assassin's Creed Odyssey, set in Greek mythology.
"Immortals: Fenyx Rising" is an intriguing hybrid of Assassin's Creed Odyssey and Breath of the Wild, offering a beautiful open-world experience with challenging puzzles and engaging gameplay. Kirk, in the discussion, shared his enjoyment of the game, finding it more appealing than recent Ubisoft titles like Watchdogs or AC Valhalla. He noted that while the game is available on Switch, the PC version offers a much better experience with superior graphics and smoother controls. The game, developed primarily by Ubisoft Quebec, features Greek mythology characters and combines the exploration and puzzle-solving elements of Breath of the Wild with the combat and movement mechanics of Assassin's Creed Odyssey. The game's structure includes various challenges, puzzles, and optional objectives, making for an immersive and enjoyable gaming experience. Kirk emphasized the appeal of the game's clear, color-coded challenges and the variety of puzzles, ranging from physics-based challenges to shrine-like puzzles. Overall, Immortals: Fenyx Rising offers a unique blend of action, adventure, and puzzle-solving, making it a standout title in the crowded open-world game genre.
Exploration with stamina limitations adds charm: Assassin's Creed Valhalla's engaging narrative, unique dialogue, and charming voice acting enhance the game's exploration mechanics, setting it apart from other Ubisoft titles.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla's climbing and exploration mechanics provide a more engaging experience due to stamina limitations, making the world feel like a puzzle and adding to the game's charm. The game's narrative, featuring an unreliable narrator between Prometheus and Zeus, adds a unique and humorous dialogue element. The voice acting, particularly by Elias Tufexis as Prometheus, is noteworthy. The game's cutscenes have a DreamWorks-like energy and are generally charming, although they lack the mysterious foreboding found in games like Breath of the Wild. The game's writing, led by Jeffrey O'Hallum, is playful and dorky, adding to the overall appeal. Despite some similarities to Ubisoft games, the limited exploration and engaging narrative set Assassin's Creed Valhalla apart.
Exploring Greek Mythology in a New Video Game: The speaker enjoys a new Greek mythology-inspired game despite its less mysterious elements, appreciates its systems, and recommends playing it on PC for a better experience. They hope for more unique Assassin's Creed-like games.
The speaker is enjoying the new video game they've been playing, which is heavily inspired by Greek mythology, despite it being more straightforward and less mysterious compared to what they love. They find the game's various systems, such as combat and stealth, appealing, and appreciate its size. However, they recommend playing it on PC for a better experience due to control issues and visual quality on the Switch. The game was developed quickly as a fiscal quarter filler and shares similarities with Assassin's Creed Odyssey. The speaker hopes for more games with the same Assassin's Creed-like elements but with unique experiences. They also mention that the game is around 30 hours long and is not recommended for handheld play on the Switch. The podcast, Triple Click, is produced by Jason Schreier, Maddie Myers, and Kirk Hamilton, and is part of the Maximum Fund Podcast Network. They encourage listeners to support the show by becoming a member at maximumfund.org/join.
