A Gamer Looks At 40

One more for the Final Fantasy books, this one wrapping up the incredible experience that is Final Fantasy 9. On this episode, we discuss story beats, magical moments, players guides, potential remakes, and final thoughts. Join us, won't you?STARRING (all handles from BlueSky)Barry Carenza (@hawkhellfire)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Eric of the Unlockables Podcast (@unlockables)James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro) Rick of Pixel Project Podcast (@pixelprojectradio)SONG COVERSFINAL FANTASY IX: 'Frontier Village Dali' | Classical Guitar | John Oeth by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAMCV6zU7XAUnforgettable Sorrow (Final Fantasy IX) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGAb0qLhUNUMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

All aboard the Final Fantasy 9 train! After the cyberpunk leanings of FF7 and the emotional love story of FF8, Square again pivoted to the past for their game of the future. The result is a glorious blend of high fantasy, in depth character building, and an emotional connection that's among the best in the entire franchise. On this episode, we talk precious first impressions and the incredible cast.STARRING (all handles from BlueSky)Barry Carenza (@hawkhellfire)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Eric of the Unlockables Podcast (@unlockables)James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro) Josh of the Still Loading Podcast (@StillLoadingPod)Rick of Pixel Project Podcast (@pixelprojectradio)SONG COVERSFinal Fantasy 9 - Vamo Alla Flamenco - Acoustic/Classical Guitar Cover - Super Guitar Bros by Super Guitar Bros - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JDptVywFAEFinal Fantasy IX - Battle Theme - Symphonic Metal Cover by GillStudio - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnMyPuq9EAsMelodies of Life - Final Fantasy IX Piano Collections *REMAKE* [Advanced] by AtinPiano - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vx-KvA-qv4My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Last week, we explored those vital first impressions and those crippling realizations of Final Fantasy 8.  This week, we peel back the onion even further, discussing story, characters, card games, and what we feel would improve the experience if a re-remaster were ever to occur. STARRING (all handles from BlueSky)Barry Carenza (@hawkhellfire)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Michael K Hughes (@KaidanXain) of the Capes and Junk Podcast (@CapesAndJunk)Mike Albertin of Games My Mom Found (@mom_found)Mike of the Distorted Illuminations YouTube channel (@MadMonarch_DI) Eric of the Unlockables Podcast (@unlockables)James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro) Josh of the Still Loading Podcast (@StillLoadingPod)SONG COVERSFinal Fantasy VIII - Find Your Way (Harp Arrangement) by Harpsibored - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=id9hD4mLJVQFinal Fantasy VIII - Compression of Time (Harp Arrangement) by Harpsibored - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8cRIaUCSJsMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

According to the internet, fans, and anybody with opinions to share, Final Fantasy 8 is a C-tier entry in the franchise. Despite raking in millions of dollars and rave reviews upon release, this oft maligned experience doesn't have many supporters. Or does it? On this episode of A Gamer Looks at 40, we attempt to separate fact from fiction and examine those amazing first impressions along with those down the line realizations. STARRING (all handles from BlueSky)Barry Carenza (@hawkhellfire)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Eddie Varnell (@thatretrocode) of the Boss Rush Network (@BossRushNetwork)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Michael K Hughes (@KaidanXain) of the Capes and Junk Podcast (@CapesAndJunk)Mike Albertin of Games My Mom Found (@mom_found)Mike of the Distorted Illuminations YouTube channel (@MadMonarch_DI) Eric of the Unlockables Podcast (@unlockables)Trevor and Jeff of New Dad Gaming Podcast (@newdadgaming)James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro) Josh of the Still Loading Podcast (@StillLoadingPod)Mustin (@mustin) SONG COVERSFinal Fantasy VIII - Liberi Fatali Massive Collab' by Marc Papeghin - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGjl92DqhnABALAMB GARDEN on Guitar - Final Fantasy 8 - Sam Griffin by Sam Griffin - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JK994q3TZL8My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Greetings from the depths of my emotional turmoil! OK, not that bad, but it's been a tumultuous few months in the Life of Tucker and this episode aims to set the record straight on exactly where I've been up to. TRIGGER WARNING: unfiltered talk of self harm, suicidal ideation, and religion in this emotionally bare episode. If you or someone you know is struggling with SI or SHI, help is a phone call / text / chat away at https://988lifeline.org/ or dial 988 on your US based phone.My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Another week, another conversation with a fascinating collector of retro videogame stuff! This week, Gamer Ahmer and I discuss her white whale finds, beloved pieces she'll never part with, and the amazing friendships found in the retro gaming community. Thanks for listening!STARRING:Gamer Ahmer! Follow her adventures on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@GamerAhmerMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

The sun is shining, the weather's warm and Grandma Ethel's cleaning out the attic. May is the Season of Garage Sales and in honor of this glorious time of bargain hunting, we'll be chatting with collectors all month long. This week, I have a conversation with the first collector I ever knew, the one and only Joe Coiro of JoeCade on YouTube. In this episode, we discuss collecting as a kid, touching memories, and the enduring quality of retro gaming. STARRING:Joe Coiro of JoeCade on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@JOE-cadeMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Time to talk about things! Join me as I answer a variety of questions from my friends on Discord, Twitter, and Blue Sky as well as share the immediate future of A Gamer Looks at 40. It's a fun show with some truly bizarre takes, all of them mine. Mwa ha ha ha ha! SONG COVERSKINGDOM HEARTS - Dearly Beloved | Classical Guitar Cover (Beyond The Guitar) by Beyond the Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xirqA74CI8gMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Demons, monsters and elemental gems, oh my! Released in the same year as Donkey Kong Country, Mega Man X, and Super Metroid, this Capcom side scroller was a buried under an avalanche of classic titles. But one Julian of The Stage Select Podcast rescued this game from the bowels of a bargain bin and discovered one of the best experiences on the system. Join us as we discuss Firebrand, the Virtual Boy and the joys of mid-90's videogame magazine writing. STARRING:Julian Titus (@juliantitus.bsky.social) of The Stage Select Podcast:Engage with Stage Select here: https://linktr.ee/thestageselect My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Happy Start of Baseball! In honor of the beginning of the baseball season, my brother and I discuss a not-at-all bargain bin game that we still pop on today. With an enchanting mix of arcade speed and simulation depth, Ken Griffey Presents strikes the perfect balance of pick-up-and-play fun. An absolute blast of a game that I enjoyed discussing. Hope you dig the conversation!STARRING:Bobby Tucker My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

It's finished! Eleven exhausting episodes later, we've completed our journey through Final Fantasy 7. On this concluding edition we finish up the odds and ends section with some talk about mechanics, playing with friends, and a touching final story you'll need to hang until the end to enjoy. Thanks for going on this journey with me!STARRING (all handles from BlueSky or Twitter)Kyle of the RPG Show (@TheRPGPodcast)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Matt (@dj_stormageddon) and Geoff (@geoffmakesnoise) of the "Fun" & Games Podcast (@funandgamespod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Michael K Hughes (@KaidanXain) of the Capes and Junk Podcast (@CapesAndJunk)Mike Albertin of Games My Mom Found (@mom_found)Mike of the Distorted Illuminations YouTube channel (@MadMonarch_DI) The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Wade aka (@ProfNoctis)SONG COVERSFinal Fantasy VII: Aeris's Theme (Violin & Piano Cover Duet) Taylor Davis & Lara de Wit by Taylor Davis - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LI7Wcl5y5Qs&t=29sWords Drowned by Fireworks (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQmZnSNQwDYMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

It's almost over! After nearly three months of chatting, recording, and discussing, we're at the "random thoughts" section of the Final Fantasy 7 series. Join us as we chat materia, mini games, and that bizarre PC port of this world class RPG.STARRINGDiana McQueen (@stormvexed on TikTok)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart)Ian of Nerds Abroadcast (@nerdsabroadcast)James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro) Josh of the Still Loading Podcast (@StillLoadingPod)Ryan aka @GameswCoffeeSONG COVERSThe Nightmare Begins (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXoq0p43Mq8The Great Warrior (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=miltSLwpnEY My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Last week, Barry Carenza shared some impassioned takes on Final Fantasy 7 as a mini franchise in the larger Final Fantasy universe. This week, we have a one on one conversation with Justin Hamm as a counter point. Ranking as his favorite game of all time, FF7 not only marked the beginning of a love for RPG's, it became the catalyst of a lifelong love of the medium in general. STARRINGJustin Hamm of The Stage Select PodcastSONG COVERSStolen Materia (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwlCVMytWcsListen to the Cries of the Planet (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2l8p5jRrZIMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

For the past few months, we've been speaking heaps of sugar about Final Fantasy 7. But it's not the perfect experience many fans my think. Taking up the position of someone less than enthusiastic about the game is co-founder of Premium Edition Games and co-host of the Nintendo Fuse podcast, Barry Carenza. On this episode, we talk about sky high expectations, FF7 as a franchise and the never ending, always chugging hype train. Join us, won't you?STARRINGBarry Carenza (@HawkHellfire) of Premium Edition Games and @nintendofuse Podcast.SONG COVERSStolen Materia (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwlCVMytWcsListen to the Cries of the Planet (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2l8p5jRrZIMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

More than the pillars of Cloud, Sephiroth, and Aerith, Final Fantasy 7 is filled to the brim with memorable moments, both big and small. On this week's episode, we discuss everything from dens of ill repute to epic slap fests in our attempt to paint the broadest FF7 picture in podcast history.  Thanks for listening!STARRING (All handles from Twitter)Eddie Varnell (@thatretrocode) of the Boss Rush Network (@BossRushNetwork)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart)Kyle of the RPG Show (@TheRPGPodcast)John Trenbeath (@crazyjohnt) Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Matt (@dj_stormageddon) and Geoff (@geoffmakesnoise) of the "Fun" & Games Podcast (@funandgamespod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Mike of the Distorted Illuminations YouTube channel (@MadMonarch_DI) The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Ryan aka @GameswCoffeeSONG COVERSRufus's Welcoming Ceremony (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqMWde3UFlsShinra, Inc. (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mtwdj5626U0My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

As we continue down the road of dissecting Final Fantasy 7 like some bizarre Hojo experiment, we arrive at story and themes. From the opening tales of corporate greed and environmental espionage to the eventual themes of literal life versus death, there's a good deal to unpack in this PS1 classic. Listen, won't you?STARRING (all handles from Twitter)Eddie Varnell (@thatretrocode) of the Boss Rush Network (@BossRushNetwork)James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro)John Trenbeath (@crazyjohnt) Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Matt (@dj_stormageddon) and Geoff (@geoffmakesnoise) of the "Fun" & Games Podcast (@funandgamespod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Ryan aka @GameswCoffeeSONG COVERSThose Who Fight (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PXLw0u5nWoRed XIII's Theme (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FArKFnpHUwMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

When lost in the dueling seas of Cloud and Sephiroth, it's easy to forget there's an entire cast backing them up. From the drama of Aerith to the strong-willed Barret, there's plently of gold to be mined in Final Fantasy 7's supporting players. On this episode, we share insights, personal stories, and multiple moments when our jaws hit the floor as we explore the diverse and amazing cast of Final Fantasy 7.STARRING (all handles from Twitter) Diana McQueen (@stormvexed on TikTok)Eddie Varnell (@thatretrocode) of the Boss Rush Network (@BossRushNetwork)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart)Ian (@teacherbloke87)James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro) Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Matt (@dj_stormageddon) and Geoff (@geoffmakesnoise) of the "Fun" & Games Podcast (@funandgamespod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Michael K Hughes (@KaidanXain) of the Capes and Junk Podcast (@GamesAndJunk)Mike of the Distorted Illuminations YouTube channel (@MadMonarch_DI) The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Ryan aka @GameswCoffeeSONG COVERSRed XIII's Theme (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FArKFnpHUwCid's Theme (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fm6ARq6Ep_kMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

The two headed monster of Final Fantasy 7, Cloud and Sephiroth may be the ultimate one/two punch in the entire franchise. Two towering examples of style, power and intrigue, this dynamic duo takes control - and often overpowers - the balance of the cast. Is this for good, bad, or indifferent? Give this episode a listen to find out!STARRING (all handles from Twitter) Carson Clark (@DesireeKorrupt)Diana McQueen (@stormvexed on TikTok)Eddie Varnell (@thatretrocode) of the Boss Rush Network (@BossRushNetwork)Ian (@teacherblokeJames and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro) Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Matt (@dj_stormageddon) and Geoff (@geoffmakesnoise) of the "Fun" & Games Podcast (@funandgamespod)Michael K Hughes (@KaidanXain) of the Capes and Junk Podcast (@GamesAndJunk)Mike of the Distorted Illuminations YouTube channel (@MadMonarch_DI) The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Ryan aka @GameswCoffeeSONG COVERSOn the Other Side of the Mountain (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scwEdLHq-mcCid's Theme (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fm6ARq6Ep_kOne-Winged Angel (Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children) - METAL COVER [RichaadEB] by RichaadEB - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gyq99F9iYYwMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Welcome back to our multi-month exploration of Final Fantasy 7! This week, we continue to share our first impressions and initial thoughts about this incredible, enduring title. Many thanks to all my guests who helped make this possible!STARRING (all handles from Twitter) Diana McQueen (@stormvexed on TikTok)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart)Ian (@teacherblokeJames and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro) John Trenbeath (@crazyjohnt)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Ryan aka @GameswCoffeeSONG COVERSFinal Fantasy VII - Let the Battles Begin / Those who fight (Gingertail Cover) by Alina Gingertail - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmzzIsBK47IDear to the Heart (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9b6QxH9FaoSupport the show

Before FF7, our first impressions of a game were generally in a home. Huddled around a CRT TV in a friends basement or stuffed on the family couch, experiencing games for the first time was an intimate experience. But with Final Fantasy 7, we had options. Store kiosks, demo discs, and even the occasional TV commercial. And as a result, our expectations were set accordingly. On this episode, we discuss the myriad of ways we first experienced the world of Cloud, Barret and Tifa and how those first impressions lived up to our lofty expectations.STARRING (all handles from Twitter) Eddie Varnell (@thatretrocode) of the Boss Rush Network (@BossRushNetwork)Kyle VonKubick (@obeykube) Josh of the Still Loading Podcast (@StillLoadingPod)Matt (@dj_stormageddon) and Geoff (@geoffmakesnoise) of the "Fun" & Games Podcast (@funandgamespod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Michael K Hughes (@KaidanXain) of the Capes and Junk Podcast (@GamesAndJunk)Mike Albertin of Games My Mom Found Podcast (@mom_found)Nate McLellanSONG COVERSFinal Fantasy VII: Aeris's Theme (Violin & Piano Cover Duet) Taylor Davis & Lara de Wit by Taylor Davis - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LI7Wcl5y5Qs&t=29sHollow (Final Fantasy VII Remake) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ny8vJcv3CQMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Final Fantasy 7 wasn't just a game release. It was the changing of an era. The moment when the franchise grew from fun games to media events. As a result, the marketing for FF7 reached unheard of levels for videogames at the time. And with the marketing came, unprecedented hype. On this episode of A Gamer Looks at 40, we share stories of what it was like to be knee deep in the late 90's media barrage and how this full court press shaped our perceptions of the game before we even hit the first loading screen. Eddie Varnell (@thatretrocode) of the Boss Rush Network (@BossRushNetwork)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart)Ian (@teacherblokeJames and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro) John Trenbeath (@crazyjohnt)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Michael K Hughes (@KaidanXain) of the Capes and Junk Podcast (@GamesAndJunk)Mike Albertin of Games My Mom Found Podcast (@mom_found)@MustinRyan aka @GameswCoffeeSONG COVERSFlowers Blooming in the Church (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBnoqDVg_ToTifa's Theme (Final Fantasy VII) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ulsS27OC5KQMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

BOOO! A few years back, I did a Halloween retrospective with my brother. Two years later, why not revisit this nostalgia well with my best friend Joey of Perfect Storm Gaming and Chase Brogan's YouTube channel. On this episode, we discuss terrible 80's costumes, the Trunk or Treat phenomenon, TV specials, UNICEF boxes, Halloween rituals, and traversing the New York City subway system. Enjoy and Happy Holidays!STARRING (all handles on Twitter):Joe Coiro of @PStormGaming and @RealChaseBrogan HANDY LINKS:Me talking about Creepshow on Games My Mom Found:  https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-f9c34-1572ca5Halloween Episode with my Brother: https://agamerlooksat40.com/episode/ep-54-halloween-2022-a-brotherly-retrospectiveMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

As I conduct hours upon hours in interviews for this show, occasionally a few clips get left by the wayside. Either they don't fit into a main episode or they're so random, there's simply no place for them to live. Enter Side Quests, an ongoing series where I take all those discarded comments and clumsily mush them together into a weird, wild episode. Enjoy!STARRING (all handles from Twitter)Carson Clark (@DesireeKorrupt)James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro)Josh of Still Loading Podcast (@StillLoadingPod)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Kyle of the The RPG Podcast (@TheRPGPodcast)Matt and Geoff of the "Fun" & Games Podcast (@funandgamespod)Mike Albertin of Games My Mom Found Podcast (@mom_found)Moses aka @thewellredmage of the-pixels.com and Gamelogica on YouTubeNate McLellan (@natedoescomedy79 on TikTok)Trevor and Jeff of New Dad Gaming Podcast (@NewDadGaming) Wade aka (@ProfNoctis)My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

As we continue our extended breather from the monster Final Fantasy series, let meet Chase aka Retro Gaming Guy on YouTube. On this week's episode, Chase and I discuss the joy of arcades, his work in becoming a content creator and the power of community. Check out Chase's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@OfficialChaseBroganMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-DSupport the show

A veteran of both the videogame journalism and podcasting space, Ben Magnet's seen it all. Join us as we chat about the early days of PC gaming, Pokemon, Sonic the Hedgehog and anything other than Final Fantasy. Enjoy!STARRING:Ben Magnet (@BenMagnet27) of @FakeNerdPodcast, @BAPAuseMenu, @FusionGameMag and @GoNintendoTweet.My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

When Joe Coiro suggested Frogger II for a Tales From the Bargain Bin episode, I thought, "Great. An Atari 2600 game. How are we going to do a tight 30 minutes on Frogger?" Turns out that after over three decades of friendship, we can blather on about anything for any length of time. Join us as we discuss the early days of gaming, the expansive Frogger franchise, and other random tidbits of audio gobbledygook. STARRINGJoe Coiro aka JoeCade of Perfect Storm Gaming and Retro Game Guy on YouTube.My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Six months ago, The Well Red Mage asked me if Chrono Trigger is a Final Fantasy. From that innocent question grew a six month quest to mine the patience of my guests and test the temperance of my listening audience. On this episode, I ask a bunch of people if this episode should exist and through those questions, learn about the connective tissue between these two games.STARRING (all handles from Twitter) Chrono Katie (@ChronoKatie)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Mike Albertin of Games My Mom Found (@mom_found)Moses aka @TheWellRedMageRyan aka @GameswCoffeeRyan Lindsay of KISS 105.3 in Ottawa (@THERyanLindsay) Tim Knowles of The Leetist Trevor and Jeff of New Dad Gaming Podcast (@NewDadGaming)My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Whew! After two long months of scouring Final Fantasy 6, we've reached the final episode. On this culminating edition, a wide variety of my FF6 friends share random thoughts, stories, and opinions that didn't make it into the main episodes. An Emperor Gesthal's banquet of content, if you will. Enjoy this last foray into the game!STARRING (all handles from Twitter) Aiden Moher (@adribbleofink)Chrono Katie (@ChronoKatie)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart) Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Mike of the Distorted Illuminations YouTube channel (@MadMonarch_DI) @MustinNate McLellan (@natedoescomedy79 on TikTok)Ryan aka @GameswCoffeeRyan Lindsay of KISS 105.3 in Ottawa (@THERyanLindsay) Seth Sturgill (@twodollarhero) from @allnpodcastTim Knowles of The Leetist Trey of the NintenDomain Podcast (@Ninten_Domain) XerxexYurik (@YurikArkady on TikTok)SONG COVERS Kefka's Theme - Final Fantasy VI - Mandolin and Guitar Cover (Feat. Chalmers Croft) by Tommy Norris - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5d8-cZu0goEpitaph (Final Fantasy VI) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gltRvu-Zd8UMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

On the second half of our Final Fantasy 6 character discussion, we explore the stories and connections of Edgar, Sabin, Shadow, Gau and more. Seven episodes, one more to go in our exhaustive dissection of this legendary classic. Enjoy!STARRING (all handles from Twitter) Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart)James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro)J.R. Sommerfeldt (@sommerfeldt_r)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)@MustinRyan Lindsay of KISS 105.3 in Ottawa (@THERyanLindsay)The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Tim Knowles of The Leetist Yurik (@YurikArkady on TikTok) XerxexSONG COVERSRelm's Theme (Final Fantasy VI) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRremDsqmHgTerra's Theme Classical Guitar Cover | FFVI | Ottawa Guitar Trio by Ottawa Guitar Trio - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTQuEzxE8GMMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Any discussion of Final Fantasy 6 would be incomplete without a thorough deep dive into the cast. From rakish rouges to magic infused generals to a loyal solider, the characters in FF 6 are as varied as they are intriguing. In this first part of our character exploration, we discuss Terra, Locke, Celes, and Cyan along with some general thoughts on the cast itself.STARRING (all handles from Twitter) Aiden Moher (@adribbleofink)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart)James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)@MustinRyan aka @GameswCoffeeRyan Lindsay of KISS 105.3 in Ottawa (@THERyanLindsay)Seth Sturgill (@twodollarhero) from @allnpodcast  Tim Knowles of The Leetist Trey of the NintenDomain Podcast (@Ninten_Domain) Yurik (@YurikArkady on TikTok) SONG COVERS'Forever Rachel' (FINAL FANTASY VI) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnOIuRSSPzsPhantom Forest & Phantom Train (Final Fantasy VI) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rj4fYb1yZLUMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

In the midst of my nearly 20 interviews for this Final Fantasy 6 series, one conversation stood out as unique. And sometimes, those chats need to exist on their own. On this episode of A Gamer Looks at 40, we meet Mama Terra, an FF6 cosplayer whose story is so deeply interwoven with that of the game's green haired protagonist, the connection is undeniable and irreversible. Join us!STARRING: Mama Terra (.mama.terra on TikTok)SONG COVERSTerra's Theme Classical Guitar Cover | FFVI | Ottawa Guitar Trio by Ottawa Guitar Trio - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTQuEzxE8GMTerra's Theme (Final Fantasy VI Piano Collections)(Nobuo Uematsu) by Kara Comparetto - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o25_6i4jS2kFINAL FANTASY VI: 'Terra's Theme' | Classical Guitar | John Oeth by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aY7mJvYNLYEMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

If you were to build a Mount Rushmore of Final Fantasy antagonists, Kefka Palazzo would have to be included. A mastermind of nihilism, this clown prince grows from general to deity in the space of Final Fantasy 6's runtime and through that growth, terrifies the world with his all encompassing power. And he's a hoot as well!Time to unravel the maniac in this episode of A Gamer Looks at 40!STARRING (all handles from Twitter) Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart) Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)@MustinRyan aka @GameswCoffeeRyan Lindsay of KISS 105.3 in Ottawa (@THERyanLindsay)Seth Sturgill (@twodollarhero) from @allnpodcast  Tim Knowles of The Leetist Trevor and Jeff of New Dad Gaming Podcast (@NewDadGaming) XerxexYurik (@YurikArkady on TikTok) SONG COVERSKefka's Theme - Final Fantasy VI - Mandolin and Guitar Cover (Feat. Chalmers Croft) by Tommy Norris - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5d8-cZu0goThe Black Mages - Dancing Mad (Final Fantasy VI) HQ by The Black Mages - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APbF8f9gEw0Dancing Mad Tier 4 cover ( Final Fantasy 6 - Nobuo Uematsu) by Farouque Raja - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mey5J9dmLagMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

If Final Fantasy 6's World of Balance is an action movie of moving castles, flying airships and magical creatures, the World of Ruin is an anthology of indie character dramas. Focused more on finding the motivation to do right thing as opposed to the right thing itself, the back half of FF6 is a contemplative reflection of growth through tragedy.So, let's talk about it! On this week's episode, we discuss the major and minor moments of the World of Ruin and how they shaped our 16 bit experience.STARRING (all handles from Twitter) Aiden Moher (@adribbleofink)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart) James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro)John Trenbeath (@crazyjohnt) Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Mike aka MageORage on Twitch and YouTube (@mageorage) @MustinRyan aka @GameswCoffeeRyan Lindsay of KISS 105.3 in Ottawa (@THERyanLindsay)Seth Sturgill (@twodollarhero) from @allnpodcast  Trevor and Jeff of New Dad Gaming Podcast (@NewDadGaming) Yurik (@YurikArkady on TikTok) SONG COVERSFINAL FANTASY VI: 'Searching for Friends' | Classical Guitar | John Oeth by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDWYdnPphPsDancing Mad Tier 4 cover ( Final Fantasy 6 - Nobuo Uematsu) by Farouque Raja - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mey5J9dmLagMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Final Fantasy 6 is a tale of two stories. In this episode of A Gamer Looks at 40, we look at the first half of this epic tale, The World of Balance. Starting as a traditional rebellion vs the Empire story, the tale quickly morphs into a character study worthy of books, poems and film. Join a cast of friends and I as we explore the world before the fall. STARRING (all handles from Twitter) Aiden Moher (@adribbleofink)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart) James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)@MustinRyan aka @GameswCoffeeRyan Lindsay of KISS 105.3 in Ottawa (@THERyanLindsay) Tim Knowles of The Leetist Trevor and Jeff of New Dad Gaming Podcast (@NewDadGaming) Trey of the NintenDomain Podcast (@Ninten_Domain)  XerxexSONG COVERSTerra's Theme (Final Fantasy VI Piano Collections)(Nobuo Uematsu) by Kara Comparetto - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o25_6i4jS2kFINAL FANTASY VI: 'Searching for Friends' | Classical Guitar | John Oeth by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDWYdnPphPsMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

From the second the title faded from my 19 inch Zenith CRT and the opening montage began, I was an insta-fan of Fina Fantasy 3/6. Nothing could have prepared me for the epic adventure that awaited me. An experience rich with high drama, interesting characters, engrossing gameplay and a story for the ages, FF3/6 remains one of my Top 5 games of all time.Anyone who's played this world class RPG has a similar story. So, let's hear them! On Part 1 of our multi part exploration of Final Fantasy 3/6, over a dozen guests share their unique first impressions and why this game stuck with them for the days, weeks and in some cases, years to come. STARRING (all handles from Twitter) Aiden Moher (@adribbleofink)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart) James and JJ of RetroFits on YouTube (@FitsRetro)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)The Lets Play Princess (@TheLPPrincess) Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Mike of the Distorted Illuminations YouTube channel (@MadMonarch_DI) Mike aka MageORage on Twitch and YouTube (@mageorage)@MustinRyan aka @GameswCoffeeRyan Lindsay of KISS 105.3 in Ottawa (@THERyanLindsay) Seth Sturgill (@twodollarhero) from @allnpodcastTim Knowles of The Leetist Trevor and Jeff of New Dad Gaming Podcast (@NewDadGaming) Trey of the NintenDomain Podcast (@Ninten_Domain) Wade aka (@ProfNoctis) XerxexYurik (@YurikArkady on TikTok)SONG COVERSFINAL FANTASY VI: 'Terra's Theme' | Classical Guitar by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aY7mJvYNLYEKids Run Through the City Corner (Final Fantasy VI) by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxnKF7geWwgMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Before I spend the next month and a half speaking all sorts of sugar about Final Fantasy 6, I figured I'd fill in the time with a quick pod update and AMA session. Silly questions get answered seriously, life mistakes are shared, and somehow I end up blathering about Cheez-Its. Questions Provided By:My DiscordMike Albertin of Games My Mom FoundPhillipCipherxzeroThe Let's Play PrincessDistorted_IlluminationKevGamer's Week Patron Only DiscordEMOesquewrytersviewZach HugethanksSir Coffee of House BlendterrybaccaGames My Mom Found DiscordKenneth Sanity My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

When I asked Justin Hamm of The Stage Select Podcast which game he would like to do for Tales From the Bargain Bin, he immediately responded, "NBA All Star Challenge on the SNES". Almost too quickly.Turns out, Justin was trying to exorcise some 16-bit demons 'cause this is - whew - this is a game. Join Justin and I as we play "Guess the Team", bemoan the dunk button and spend an hour working through trauma, one feature at a time.STARRING: Justin Hamm of the The Stage Select Podcast (@TheStageSelect on Twitter)My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

While North American gamers dined on Mystic Quest, our pals in the East were chowing down on Final Fantasy 5. Full of customization, intrigue and a killer soundtrack, this game was often considered unattainable aside from emulation and a handful of re-releases. Is this game worthy of celebration or did Square do us Western fans a huge favor? Find out in this week's episode!STARRING (all handles from Twitter)Aiden Moher (@adribbleofink)Barry Carenza of Premium Edition Games (@HawkHellfire)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Mike aka MageORage on Twitch and YouTube (@mageorage)Ryan aka @GameswCoffeeXerxexSONG COVERS'The Day Will Come' (Final Fantasy V) | Classical Guitar Cover by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVR32UbyOfgFFVII SOUNDFONT: Battle On The Big Bridge - FFV by Neo-Midgar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_mr8YEJWlIMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

While Final Fantasy was already a Japanese phenomenon, things here in the states were slower to gather steam. FF4 did well in stores, but nowhere near the numbers overseas. So, what to do with Final Fantasy 5? Release this complex, job heavy dungeon crawler to a market not ready for it or maybe soften the blow. Just a bit.That lighter game became Final Fantasy: Mystic Quest, a stripped down version of the Final Fantasy formula made accessible to everyone. By combining the bare bones of an RPG with the kinetic fun of platforming, this oft maligned game remains a fascinating artifact, if nothing else. STARRING (all handles from Twitter)Carson Clark (@DesireeKorrupt)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart)Ian aka @teacherbloke85J.R. Sommerfeldt (@sommerfeldt_r)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Mike Albertin of Games My Mom Found Podcast (@mom_found)Tim Knowles of The Leetist.XerxexSONG COVERSFinal Fantasy Mystic Quest : Beautiful Forest Acoustic Cover by Steven Morris - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Oyv3PQwdCsFINAL FANTASY MYSTIC QUEST "Boss Battle" Metal Cover by Ferdk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1da5k2HpywMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

As we put a bow on our virtual round table regarding Final Fantasy 4, there's still so much to discuss. In this, the third and final installment on FF4, we take a shotgun approach to the stories by sharing - well - all the things we didn't on the previous episodes. We talk themes, story, logos, sound effects, and one particularly nasty wall in this omnibus episode. STARRING (all handles from Twitter)Barry Carenza of Premium Edition Games (@HawkHellfire)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart)John Trenbeath (@crazyjohnt)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Mike of the Distorted Illuminations YouTube channel (@MadMonarch_DI)Mike aka MageORage on Twitch and YouTube (@mageorage)Moses aka @thewellredmage of the-pixels.com and Gamelogica on YouTubeMustin, music producer (@Mustin)Ryan Lindsay of KISS 105.3 in Ottawa (THERyanLindsay)Trevor and Jeff of New Dad Gaming Podcast (@NewDadGaming)SONG COVERSMain Theme of FINAL FANTASY IV (Piano Cover) by Animalisa Keys - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlUFeCJ7T5cFinal Fantasy 4 / IV Guitar Cover - Theme of Love by Sam Griffin - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-79Ntl3pyHcMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Last week, we started the FF4 fire by documenting our initial impressions. On this week's episode, we go deeper into the big (and small) moments that left an impact along with the  characters that made this SNES launch title a game to remember. STARRING (all handles from Twitter)Barry Carenza of Premium Edition Games (@HawkHellfire)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart)John Trenbeath (@crazyjohnt)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova) Mike of the Distorted Illuminations YouTube channel (@MadMonarch_DI)Mike aka MageORage on Twitch and YouTube (@mageorage)Mike Albertin of Games My Mom Found Podcast (@mom_found)Moses aka @thewellredmage of the-pixels.com and Gamelogica on YouTubeRyan Lindsay of KISS 105.3 in Ottawa (THERyanLindsay)Trevor and Jeff of New Dad Gaming Podcast (@NewDadGaming)SONG COVERSFinal Fantasy IV - Overworld Main Theme - Classical Guitar Cover by Atomix - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hux9iMPdYkQFinal Fantasy 4 Celtic Moon Track 5 Main Theme by Ozzylifeson Soundtracks - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TX2vIjZgxuY&list=PLBCFB68C388EC836D&index=5FINAL FANTASY IV: 'Rydia's Theme' | Classical Guitar | John Oeth by John Oeth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HgsyimjKsxkMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

In the winter of 1991, Final Fantasy 2 stormed onto North American shores as an SNES launch title and was met with middling enthusiasm. US gamers were too busy stomping Goombas and driving hovercrafts  to worry about turn based combat and wandering in circles.But for those who took the plunge, they discovered not only a love for the series but a new genre to adore. Join myself and a host of  fans as we share our earliest recollections and memories of Final Fantasy 2 - I mean, 4. STARRING (all handles from Twitter)Barry Carenza of Premium Edition Games (@HawkHellfire)Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart) John Trenbeath (@crazyjohnt)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Mike of the Distorted Illuminations YouTube channel (@MadMonarch_DI)Mike aka MageORage on Twitch and YouTube (@mageorage)Mike Albertin of Games My Mom Found Podcast (@mom_found)Moses aka @thewellredmage of the-pixels.com and Gamelogica on YouTubeMustin, music producer (@Mustin)Ryan Lindsay of KISS 105.3 in Ottawa (THERyanLindsay) Wade aka (@ProfNoctis)SONG COVERSFinal Fantasy IV - Welcome to Our Town (Harp Solo) by Harpsibored - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvnWlk5OyO0Main Theme of FINAL FANTASY IV (Piano Cover) by Animalisa Keys - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlUFeCJ7T5cFINAL FANTASY IV: 'Rydia's Theme' | Classical Guitar | John Oeth by John Oeth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HgsyimjKsxkMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Wrestling and videogames. The two combined conjures up images of late night sleepovers hopped up on Jolt Cola, Pixie Sticks and sweaty man-beasts. But for two brothers in Northern New Jersey, our first blush with digitized pugilism was  M.US.C.L.E. on the NES. Join Bobby and I as we explore old wrestling games, Fallout, obscure manga, and diminutive plastic collect-em-all figurines from the late 80's.  Play M.U.S.C.L.E. in browser here: https://www.retrogames.cz/play_059-NES.phpMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

When Mario's Claymation visage first landed in my mailbox in the summer of 1988, I was a Nintendo fan. After tearing into that inaugural issue of Nintendo Power, I was a devotee. On this episode of A Gamer Looks at 40, I chat with the architect of this incredible periodical, Gail Tilden. During our conversation, we discuss her beginnings in the industry, the creation / curation of the magazine, and the unique culture that allowed Nintendo Power to become a window to a world of games I'd never experience otherwise.SONG COVERS:Super Mario Bros. Main Theme - Can I play ALL the parts on 1 guitar?? by TV on Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWqD-bjjR14MARIO 2 on CLASSICAL GUITAR - Basically the hardest thing I've ever played by Sam Griffin Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hASvFH3w1IkSuper Mario Bros Theme - Overworld (Nintendo New Acoustic Classical Fingerstyle Guitar Cover) by Jonas Lefvert - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33uaug_BV7gFinal Fantasy 1 - Town Theme (Nes Acoustic Classical Guitar Fingerstyle Music Tabs Cover) by Jonas Lefvert - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpJ7j8M6dtw My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

You think you know a guy. Podcast with him for almost 5 years, talk about Marvel movies, guest on almost 100 of his show's episodes. And then, in a time of need, when asked to suggest a game for a last minute Tales From the Bargain Bin, he foists this piece of junk upon me. That man is Mike Albertin of Games My Mom Found, the game is the Rocketeer for the SNES and if you know this strange shoot-em-up, you're already feeling my pain. Join Mike and I as we fail to talk about the movie, discuss World War 2 museums and bemoan the strange, strange experiment that is The Rocketeer video game. My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

While we were stomping Goombas and hunting ducks, Japanese gamers were embarking on epic NES adventures. When the missing Final Fantasy 2 and 3 were finally released to the West, fans were excited. Finally, we could try those missing 8-bit epics without downloading sketchy emulators and learning Japanese. While the reality never lived up to the hype, the NES sequels earned the respect of the community, even if they didn't quite live up to the loft standards of 1 and 4. On this edition of A Gamer Looks at 40, we explore this JRPG two-some and do some memory mining of our very own.STARRING (All handles from Twitter)Aiden Moher (@adribbleofink)Barry Carenza of Premium Edition Games (@HawkHellfire)@DancarnateGreg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart) John Trenbeath (@crazyjohnt)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova) Mike of the Distorted Illuminations YouTube channel (@MadMonarch_DI) Moses aka @thewellredmage of the-pixels.com and Gamelogica on YouTubeNate McLellan (@natedoescomedy79 on TikTok)Ryan aka @GameswCoffeeSONG COVERSFINAL FANTASY II: 'Town' | Classical Guitar by John Oeth Guitar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZwJ-Ap82FoFinal Fantasy II - Tower of the Magi (Harp Solo) by Harpsibored - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdMwNDcl1Bs My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

On Part 1 of our two part exploration of the original Final Fantasy, we talked intros and first impressions. For Part 2, we start by talking about the game's many inspirations and the amazing moments that blew our 10 year old minds. A mixed bag of topics that somehow ties into the overall theme of this series: Final Fantasy 1 is a classic for a reason, warts and all. Oh, and we talk about Warmech. Lots and lots of Warmech. STARRING (all handles from Twitter)Barry Carenza of Premium Edition Games (@HawkHellfire)@DancarnateGreg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart) John Trenbeath (@crazyjohnt)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Matt of the Backlog Busters (@skinnymattk)Mike aka MageORage on Twitch and YouTube (@mageorage)Nate McLellan (@natedoescomedy79 on TikTok)Ryan aka @GameswCoffeeSONG COVERSFinal Fantasy: Main Theme (String Quartet) - ft. Israfelcello by Patti Rudisill - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ii3IEp4UiL8Let The Battle Begin | Final Fantasy VII | MES by Mariachi Entertainment System - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRvwScxf1KwMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

When Final Fantasy hit North American shores in 1990, it sparked an RPG revolution in the West. Gamers like myself and many of my friends fell in love with the interesting mechanics, player expression, and overarching story.These days, Final Fantasy 1 feels like a relic of an era gone by. As a cultural artifact, it's significant but whether it's worth playing, even on the spiffy new re-masters, is under debate. But not on this podcast. Join over a dozen of my friends and fellow Final Fantasy fans and I as we discuss our first time playing the title, the mechanics, and the lasting legacy of a game that's more than worth visiting, even if it's for the first time. STARRING (all handles from Twitter)Aiden Moher (@adribbleofink)Barry Carenza of Premium Edition Games (@HawkHellfire)@DancarnateGreg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 (@sewart) J.R. Sommerfeldt (@sommerfeldt_r)Jody aka (@bakuiel)John Trenbeath (@crazyjohnt)Julian Titus (@julian_titus) of The Stage Select Podcast (@StageSelectPod)Kyle of the The RPG Podcast (@TheRPGPodcast)Matt of the Backlog Busters (@skinnymattk)Mekel Kasanova (@MekelKasanova)Mike aka MageORage on Twitch and YouTube (@mageorage)Nate McLellan (@natedoescomedy79 on TikTok)Ryan aka @GameswCoffeeWade aka (@ProfNoctis)SONG COVERSFinal Fantasy 1 - Town Theme (Nes Acoustic Classical Guitar Fingerstyle Music Tabs Cover) by Jonas Lefvert - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpJ7j8M6dtwFinal Fantasy 1 - Chaos Temple (Acoustic Classical Fingerstyle Guitar Cover Music Theme Tabs) by Jonas Lefvert - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9jZXqPPbt0Final Fantasy - "Opening Theme" 【Metal Guitar Cover] by Ferdk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5-T3nPBG3YFinal Fantasy: Main Theme (String Quartet) - ft. Israfelcello by Patti Rudisill - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ii3IEp4UiL8My Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

Outside of The Legenda of Zelda, no videogame franchise is more closely tied to music than Final Fantasy. From emotional resonance to supporting gameplay to auditory storytelling, the themes of Final Fantasy are the stuff of legends. So much so, we've been listening to live orchestral versions of these pieces for decades. Enter Distant Worlds, a long running orchestra series that brings the music of Final Fantasy to the greatest stages in the world. Join  series conductor and director Arnie Roth and I as we talk how Distant Worlds became a sensation, the community surrounding it and the joys of playing to packed, rapt audiences night after night. STARRING:Arnie Roth@MustinRyan aka @gameswcoffeeSONG COVERSCHOCOBO BAND - Liberi Fatali (Final Fantasy VIII) [Official Music Video] 4K by Chocobo Band - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRRqiMaBwrIFinal Fantasy VII: Prelude (Harp Cover) + Pedal Harp Sheet Music by HarpistKT - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZLJRVl8-HIMy Website: agamerlooksat40.comMy Discord: https://discord.com/invite/SdaE4atGjCMy Twitter: @agamerlooksat40My TikTok: @agamerlooksat40My Facebook: facebook.com/agamerlooksat40My Insta: @agamerlooksat40My Patreon: patreon.com/agamerlooksat40My Email: [email protected] Phone Number: Ehhhhh, not gonna happen. :-D  Support the show

LJN The name alone brings shockwaves of terror to retro gamers everywhere. But what was it like back in the day? Join podcaster Michael  Colby and I as we discuss three titles: The Uncanny X-Men, Wolverine, and Spider-Man: Return of the Sinister Six. And be sure to check out Michael's show Jack Billings Presents: Haunted Apartment Complex - https://open.spotify.com/show/1hi3mFv6Cezcf0WsmsTsxl?si=06eb950e96f94182Support the show