Messages

[Why do we discount the value of puzzle games? That's a riddle, please answer it.]

276

Podcast Discussion / Episode 490: Puzzling in Progress

« on: August 28, 2016, 09:50:01 AM »

Why do we discount the value of puzzle games? That's a riddle, please answer it.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/43283/episode-490-puzzling-in-progress

After a month in the wilderness, RFN is reunited. And to celebrate, the team has all the newest titles for New Business. First up, Guillaume has a report on Metroid Prime: Federation Force, the most controversial non-issue in recent gaming. After burning himself on the hot takes, he takes a look at Donkey Kong Land. As you can imagine, the GameBoy was an imperfect home for the detailed sprites for which the Donkey Kong Country series was known. Jon explains World of Warcraft to us, in anticipation of its upcoming expansion, Legion. This is not a show of restraint in not making a joke here; literally all of the possible jokes have already been made. James takes a look at the demo for Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney - Spirit of Justice. Cognizant of the fact this demo has been discussed by TYP, and the game by Syrenne, he quickly falls back into talking about .hack//Infection - and the polymorphic products it portended. Greg concludes New Business by violating all the rules of animal conservation in Pokémon Snap, now available on the European Wii U Virtual Console.

After the break we dive into another load of Listener Mail. Topics covered this week include the devaluation of puzzle games, hidden gems in the 3/DS libraries, childhood-defining consoles, and the perils of localization. Controversial statements don't stop on RFN, and you can put us in position to speak uncomfortable truths via the power of email.

Next week we'll be announcing the games for our next RetroActive poll. We've settled "Open World" games for our topic, so if you have any suggested games beyond the obvious (Bully, Chinatown Wars, etc) let us know.

[I'm just a man, walking around, with a pipe but no rocks.]

277

Podcast Discussion / Episode 488: I Need the Good Rocks, and I Don't Mean Geodude

« on: August 06, 2016, 05:36:28 PM »

I'm just a man, walking around, with a pipe but no rocks.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/43138/episode-488-i-need-the-good-rocks-and-i-dont-mean-geodude

Gui's quarantine continues into its second week; in lieu of flowers, please send a donation to The Society for the Advancement of Charm in Games. After editing last week's mega-cast, James got lazy and declared this show would be a three-man affair. Jon kicks off New Business with Pokémon Y on 3DS. As this spiritual Ekans (it's "Snake" backwards) winds itself further around Jon's heart, we try to save him from an extended cocaine metaphor by hooking him on another self-destructive addiction, Monster Hunter - specifically the future of the series. Greg has thoughts on Blastball local multiplayer, and he finds the game's stupid moments to be the game's best. He also has thoughts on TurboGrafx shooter R-Type, now available on Wii U Virtual Console. Much like recent Retro Active title Rondo of Blood, this game is superior to its SNES pseud-port Super R-Type. James continues to make terrible decisions with impressions of The Battle Cats POP! on 3DS eShop. A Sword and Soldiers-style game starring Japanese sketches of cat monsters, Battle Cats is a weird mobile-to-3DS conversion hampered by decisions as weird as its premise.

After the break, it's time for Listener Mail. We start off with a plug for an upcoming charity event; The Nickcast: The Race Against Time is a 24-hour Chrono Trigger livestream, raising money for Alzheimer's research. It's coming up next Saturday (August 13).  Other topics include: physical releases of digital-only games, the number of rumored NX devices a family man will have to buy, and descriptions of our gaming battle stations. You can arm us for war by sending us an email.

[We have the foremost coverage of the biggest Nintendo news this week, Level-5 Vision.]

278

Podcast Discussion / Episode 487: NX and the Little Capitalist That Could

« on: July 31, 2016, 05:00:37 AM »

We have the foremost coverage of the biggest Nintendo news this week, Level-5 Vision.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/43110/episode-487-nx-and-the-little-capitalist-that-could

Guillaume is out this week, and he picked a great week to do it, in no way missing out on any major rumors. Instead we're joined by friend of the show Syrenne McNulty, the first of a parade of guests/fugitives we'll be featuring/harboring in Gui's absence.

Given our love of Kill Bill's Ironsides siren, we decided we couldn't wait until the second segment to talk about the most recent NX rumors. Eurogamer claims to have multiple sources that have identified NX as a console/handheld hybrid, and we spend what feels like multiple hours discussing it. There's an email here, so technically this is Listener Mail. So you can send us your technicalities via our inbox.

After a break, it's time for New Business! James leads off with Freedom Planet, a Sonic-inspired neo-retro platformer. I understand that James and Sonic in the same sentence rarely goes well, but you can probably keep your pitchforks where they are for this one. Jon is one week closer to finding himself ejected from RFN so that he can pursue his true passion, a Pokémon Go podcast. Syrenne proves herself a lunatic by hacking Fire Emblem Fates to make it more sadistic, before describing her love of the upcoming Ace Attorney: Spirit of Justice. Lastly, Greg solicits thoughts from the crew on the recently-announced Lady Layton, not expecting this to turn into a condemnation of Level-5's money-grubbing soul. He does finally get to take us away from all this ruthless capitalism, with thoughts on Pokémon Yellow...oh. Well, he also has prepared research on the money to MyNintendo coin exchange rate during the Curve Digital sale...oh, again.

We'll undoubtedly have more thoughts on NX and business next week. Thanks to Syrenne for joining us!

[Is Pokémon Go causing Global Warming? Should you feel bad for enjoying the game narcoleptics can't? Will this headline get on the Google News front page? One can only hope.]

279

Podcast Discussion / Episode 485: Pokémon Journalism

« on: July 17, 2016, 08:57:00 AM »

Is Pokémon Go causing Global Warming? Should you feel bad for enjoying the game narcoleptics can't? Will this headline get on the Google News front page? One can only hope.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/43030/episode-485-pokemon-journalism

Little did James know that one short week from mocking Jon Lindemann's PokéStop Tubtime, that Pokémon Go would have fundamentally altered society. Fans around the world are engaged, businesses are slammed, servers are taxed, politicians are foolish (more so than usual), and online journalists are producing Peabody-worthy content at a record pace. Eager to get on the hype-train, Radio Free Nintendo returns this week with our second Pokémon-referencing title in as many weeks. But, before we can gorge ourselves on the Pokébuzz, we start the show with New Business.

Guillaume is back, with a lot to talk about, so he and James start off with thoughts on Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE. They both come off rather negative in their impressions, but they do like the game. Apparently, a game that is awash in the disposable products of pop culture ironically expects you to really stick with it. The Gui and James duo also offer a shout-out to 7th Dragon III: Code VFD, a game that borrows heavily from Etrian Odyssey - and is available now. Gui wraps up his New Business with impressions of Bonk's Adventure on the recently released TurboGrafx-16 Virtual Console on Wii U. Did you know that Konami produced the TurboGrafx? It was definitely Konami; there was never another company involved. Greg has impressions of Hyrule Warriors Legends, the 3DS port of the surprisingly enjoyable Hyrule Warriors. He has thoughts on the new content, as well as the efforts developer Omega Force made to adapt the game to play on the go. Lastly, it's time to go whole Watchog into Pokémon Go. Both Jon and James have spent additional time with the game, and give a mostly-serious overview for the five people who have yet to succumb. More pressingly, the entire crew digs into the game's success, and the broader implications for Nintendo's diversification strategies.

After the break we continue to talk about Pokémon Go. We've all seen the hard-hitting journalism on display, and as RFN host/producer James wants in on that click revenue. It's time for RFN to put their "serious journalist" hats on, and come up with the hottest headlines, sure to drive eyes to...our...podcast.

Following this brief attempt at professionalism, it's time for Listener Mail. A short segment this week asks two questions: what caused this RPG low pressure system we've been stuck in, and what's going on with the NES Classic Edition. You can ask us about our personal low pressure systems by sending us an email.

[As Season 5 approaches its first anniversary, we've redoubled our efforts to take the mantle of World's Most Important Nintendo Podcast seriously.]

280

Podcast Discussion / Episode 483: Professionalism

« on: July 03, 2016, 08:05:33 AM »

As Season 5 approaches its first anniversary, we've redoubled our efforts to take the mantle of World's Most Important Nintendo Podcast seriously.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42958/episode-483-professionalism

How do you introduce an episode in which Japan has totally overwhelmed each and every panelist? Like this: we're joined again this week by "Friend of the Show" Syrenne McNulty, who we tasked with being our personal #FE Sherpa (no Back to the Future ball cap required). But first, Greg kicks off New Business with concluding thoughts on Kirby: Planet Robobot. He then further cements the vampiric transformation of RFN with a look at Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow. Guillaume tries out the demo for 7th Dragon III: Code VFD (a game he's already played), and the terribly racist Super Adventure Island. RFN will lead the campaign to boycott all future games from Hudson and its parent company Konami. Jon talks about the life, death, and rebirth of his 3DS - as slain by Nintendo customer support, all in service of trying the Monster Hunter Generations demo, which he then discusses. James needs help to talk about Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE, a game so aggressively Japanese that it remained undubbed; not for cost reasons, but rather because the English language is incapable of existing in the same world as this game. Syrenne attempts to assist, but this entire preview rings of non-sense. Syrenne pushes RFN in a whole new direction, with thoughts on PC title Kindred Spirits on the Roof - a Japanese Visual Novel that tastefully combines the topics of lesbian love and spiritual possession.

After the break, we have an abbreviated Listener Mail segment. We are asked about the viability of a subscription-driven Nintendo Network, and if Nintendo's Zelda-focused E3 was the right decision. You can question our decision making by sending us an email.

If you want to hear Syrenne and NWR's Donald Theriault talk Zero Time Dilemma, check out the special Connectivity episode they recorded. Warning, spoilers.

[I thought Nintendo was above making licensed games.]

281

Podcast Discussion / Episode 482: The Legend of Zelda: Olivia Wilde

« on: June 26, 2016, 12:17:19 PM »

I thought Nintendo was above making licensed games.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42929/episode-482-the-legend-of-zelda-olivia-wilde

Last week, we gave our E3 reactions; this week we return to our standard show format. James kicks off New Business with a game Nintendo doesn't want you to know about: Rhythm Heaven Megamix. As a big fan of the series, James found his flow quickly, but Greg is around to allay some of his fears. Greg has concluding thoughts on Fire Emblem Fates: Conquest. Did being the tool of a monster ruin the experience for him? It hasn't for nearly a decade of RFN. Jon continues the strategic thinking with his Non-tendo Game of the Week: the beta of Halo Wars 2. Warthogs not getting stuck on every pebble may take you out of the Halo experience, but Jon may have found his inner tactician. Lastly, Guillaume concludes the segment with yet another assault on Castlevania, with Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia. Shockingly, picking up a nearly decade-old save did not yield the most positive experience.

After the break, we get down to our first post-E3 Listener Mail segment. Topics covered: self-induced blackouts, movie puns, the dumbing down of the university system, developer vs. publisher vs. BUSINESS, Tomodachi Life: The Movie - starring YOU, and an email picked exclusively to let us use the NX alarm. You can trigger our alarms by sending us an email.

[We recorded our E3 reactions in front of a live studio audience. How did the Breath of the Wild move us?]

282

Podcast Discussion / Episode 481: E3 of the Wild

« on: June 17, 2016, 04:08:41 AM »

We recorded our E3 reactions in front of a live studio audience. How did the Breath of the Wild move us?

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42882/episode-481-e3-of-the-wild

E3 2016 has come and gone, but the echo still resonates in our ears. Following the second day of the show, RFN convened a special live recording to break down Nintendo's announcements - specifically The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. While Link's newest adventure took up the majority of our time, we also had opportunities to discuss Pokémon Sun and Moon, Ever Oasis, Paper Mario: Color Splash, the stealth release of Rhythm Heaven Megamix, and much more.

Thanks to everyone who was able to join us in the chat!

[I promise that this non-nonsensical title ties directly to Rondo of Blood.]

283

Podcast Discussion / Episode 479: Extended Crab Leg Metaphor

« on: June 05, 2016, 12:52:52 PM »

I promise that this non-nonsensical title ties directly to Rondo of Blood.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42790/episode-479-extended-crab-leg-metaphor

This week, it's finally time for our Retroactive on Castlevania: Rondo of Blood. But Dracula will have to wait just a little bit longer, because first comes New Business. Gui and James lead off with impressions of 7th Dragon III: Code VFD. The first entry in the series to come to the West, it borrows more than just its director from the Etrian Odyssey series. Guillaume and James both like what they've played so far, especially shipping their completely silent protagonists. Greg begins worshipping Satan with NES title Devil World. The Miyamoto-developed Pac-Man clone is currently available on multiple Virtual Consoles, assuming you're not in God's Own Region: America. Jon concludes New Business with Future Business: a look at what to expect out of E3 and the sudden announcement of Nintendo's non-Zelda plans for the show.

After the break, we fill our pink dresses with birds and slay The King of the Vampires with our RetroActive for Castlevania: Rondo of Blood. We talk about the dichotomy of Ryu-like Richter and adorable killing machine Maria, the influence of anime seeping into a previously western-looking series, explaining moral relativism to a small child, and an absurdly tall Frankenstein's Monster. Thanks to everyone who played along with us, and posted commentary.

Next week is the last show before E3, so if you have any E3 specific questions it's probably a good idea to get them in to our inbox now. The following week, we will be recording our E3 reaction show live! Join us at Nintendo World Report on Wednesday, June 15 at 9 PM Eastern. For those of you who can't make it, we'll have it on the feed soon thereafter. Come watch us engage in what will certainly be a horrible mistake.

[This is not especially observant; it's always a word worth finding.]

284

Podcast Discussion / Episode 478: The Word You're Looking for Is Abomination

« on: May 29, 2016, 10:42:00 AM »

This is not especially observant; it's always a word worth finding.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42754/episode-478-the-word-youre-looking-for-is-abomination

E3 is mere weeks away, and RFN is largely ambivalent. With little to do in the way of predictions ("They're going to show a new Zelda game!"), and a one week delay of the previously-scheduled RetroActive, this week's episode is a traditional serving of Radio Free Nintendo.

As such, Greg kicks off New Business with some concluding thoughts on Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam [Bros.], before moving on to Ultimate NES Remix. The price curve for this strangely retail-only remix of previously remixed, previously digital-only games finally dipped under The Greg Leahy Buy Threshold (we're trying to find a catchier name along the lines of "Mendoza Line"). As one would expect, he's found playing these portable-sized games on a portable device to provide fitting enjoyment. Jon has hands-on impressions of the new arena shooter everyone is talking about, Blizzard's Overwatch. Early impressions are positive, if you can trust the impressions of a controller-using plebeian. Guillaume's foray into the dark annals of "licensed Star Wars games that lived in the shadows of a more successful N64 title" continues this week, with impressions of Star Wars Racer Revenge. The PS2 sequel to Star Wars Episode I: Racer proves fun, despite the Star Wars trappings not adding much to the experience. James rounds out New Business with concluding thoughts on Bravely Second: End Layer (and an apology for evoking Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World) before segueing into his feature topic: Crisis in the Land of Run-and-Shoot-Man. Mighty No. 9 looks stupid, the new Mega Man cartoon looks horrifying, and fans of the Blue Bomber are left in tears. James tries to find solace in the arm-cannons of 3DS eShop titles with a double dose of Anime Happenings: The Legend of Dark Witch and 3D Gunstar Heroes.

After the break it's Listener Mail. This week we discuss: if Nintendo's next mobile app "needs" to be a game and if it must feature mascot characters, why the NX must be a portable and console system, our console identities, and why Indies are often omitted in conversations about Nintendo's third-party relationships. You can be our Amiga CD32 mascot platformer by sending us an email.

Next week, it's finally time to slay Dracula. Again. We will be doing our RetroActive on Castlevania: Rondo of Blood for the TurboGrafx-16. There are still a few days left for you to post your comments in the talkback thread for possible use on the show.

[Funk Taxonomy is more than just my music crew.]

285

Podcast Discussion / Episode 477: This Particular Breed of Funk

« on: May 22, 2016, 08:07:00 AM »

Funk Taxonomy is more than just my music crew.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42729/episode-477-this-particular-breed-of-funk

Radio Free Nintendo has its full complement of players this week; if only we all had cool things to talk about. Greg, a long-time fan of the Mario & Luigi series, doubles-back to Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam Bros. For whatever reason, outside of Europe, the game is simply called "Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam." In a strange sense, it's unclear which region has the bad name; there's only one paper character (making the "Bros." moniker ill-fitting), but the lack of "Bros." may indicate that Nintendo of America hates fraternity. Greg likes the game, but that's significantly less important information. Guillaume remains unable to escape the tendrils of Pocket Card Jockey, presumably still giving his horses terribly offensive names that shame us all. He does manage to find time to re-play Star Wars: Rogue Squadron 3D, the PC version of the N64 classic. Listen as his precious memories are shattered by the realization that as a younger man he was more willing to forgive a game its sins. Jon is selling himself on eBay, but he also found time to promote his unloading of his Complete in Box GBA collection. If you ever wanted to hear people dissect eBay listings, then we have finally produced your ideal segment. James concludes New Business with a look at Radiohammer, a Korean-developed mobile rhythm game ported to 3DS. An otherwise good game is harmed by a series of mistakes that seem totally unthinkable.

Listener Mail quickly descends into madness. Topics include: game developers making their games for podcasters, licensed nonsense, and forced retirement of Nintendo characters. Corey is definitely in the House this week, and you can send a question to our house via the inbox.

We are going to delay our RetroActive for Castlevania: Rondo of Blood by a week. We just won't be ready next week, so now you have some more time to get involved. Post your thoughts in the talkback thread. We will be doing our segment on Episode 479.

286

Podcast Discussion / Re: Episode 475: Super Dimensional Fortress Great Fox

« on: May 10, 2016, 03:24:20 AM »

Yeah, I didn't play with any of the other characters in the game, so if they're more third-persony (I can see that, as they're sword-based) I get that.

If you don't like that label, I'll just call it a "shitty game", okay?

[It's a small wonder Great Fox doesn't transform into a robot, a tank, or some kind of robot-tank hybrid.]

287

Podcast Discussion / Episode 475: Super Dimensional Fortress Great Fox

« on: May 08, 2016, 03:18:49 PM »

It's a small wonder Great Fox doesn't transform into a robot, a tank, or some kind of robot-tank hybrid.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42654/episode-475-super-dimensional-fortress-great-fox

After a somber episode last week, the full RFN cast digs deep and finds a way to reunite to get the show back on the road. The Spirit of Unity pervades New Business, which Jon starts with Free-to-Play Wii U game Lost Reavers. Where else but on Radio Free Nintendo will discussion of a generic loot shooter turn into a deep philosophical exploration of mankind's unending urge to consume? James tries yet again to give a good report on Bravely Second; he likes it, honest. He and Greg then attempt to double-team impressions of Star Fox Zero, and this combined effort shatters the show's harmony. Greg is a fan of the indefensible walkers, the crippling over-reliance on All Range Mode, and an unrelenting series of baffling gameplay decisions. James, to say the least, isn't. He also writes this article, and as such casts the final verdict. Guillaume tries to bring the show back together with thoughts on "free" eShop titles My Nintendo Picross: The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and Mini Mario & Friends: amiibo Challenge. He worries about his Picross chops and, unless Jon is willing to share his expansive amiibo collection, that he'll never see all of the Challenge.

After the break it's time for Listener Mail. We feature an assortment of your reactions to the NX news, Nintendo's E3 plans, Zelda's delay, and all the recent news, such as future President Trump's plan to rid the United States of the Lindemann Menace. You can send your insights on the currents roiling the politics of both US and the EU to our inbox.

Our Castlevania: Rondo of Blood RetroActive is a few weeks away. Get started playing, and you can leave your thoughts in the RetroActive talkback thread.

[Despite showing up in this title, Falco Lombardi's child with Mata Hari is only recognized as side-canon.]

288

Podcast Discussion / Episode 473: The Woody Allen Star Fox

« on: April 24, 2016, 12:12:11 PM »

Despite showing up in this title, Falco Lombardi's child with Mata Hari is only recognized as side-canon.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42584/episode-473-the-woody-allen-star-fox

Europe and North America inch (centimeter?) ever closer towards library parity this week, with two major releases for Nintendo platforms. James leads off with the first, Bravely Second: End Layer for 3DS. Europe got this game months ago, but finally anime is happening in America. James spent an unhealthy amount of time with the demo - in a single sitting - and has thoughts on its structure as well as the very specific challenges of making a direct sequel to a JRPG. Jon is on the hunt for the next Tub-Time Game of the Year candidate, with the Vita release of Axiom Verge. This Super Metroid-inspired indie game is coming soon to Wii U, which is a good thing (especially now that none of our panelists are on the take). Guillaume cruises through space in neon-colored side-scrolling shooter Star Ghost, apparently composed by David Wise on an off-day. He then explores the demo of Pocket Card Jockey, the latest game from the progenitors of Pokémon. Let's just say it puts the freak in Game Freak. Lastly, Greg wraps New Business with very early thoughts on Star Fox Zero. To say this game's path to market has been long would be a bit of an understatement,  but it's here now! Get some early thoughts on the new game modes and the divisive use of motion controls.

After a medically prescribed break, it's time for Listener Mail. Topics covered this week include: port buying (with a foray into European home versions of arcade classics for Zilog Z-80-based systems), mortality and mating in Fire Emblem and the eternal conflict therein, and the impact of this half-step generation of consoles on the NX (none of which we know anything about officially). If you want us to turn your burning question into a dialog on the multinational disgrace US Gold we can help! Send us your question to our inbox.

A pair of housekeeping reminders. Voting ends very soon for our Castlevania RetroActive. Polling is very close, so  vote now! As a reminder, your candidates are:

• Super Castlevania IV (1991/SNES)
• Castlevania: Rondo of Blood (1993/PC Engine)
• Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow (2003/GBA)
• Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia (2008/DS)
• Castlevania: The Adventure ReBirth (2009/WiiWare)

Lastly, James was on Radio Trivia last week. In a bit of role-reversal, he picked the games for normal host, and frequent RFN guest, Michael "TYP" Cole to guess. He also violated core tenants of what makes Radio Trivia what it is. Of course he did. Despite James' presence, you should give it a listen. Radio Trivia is a fun show that features a lot of great music.

289

Podcast Discussion / Re: Episode 472: Epic Closet Octopus

« on: April 24, 2016, 02:04:26 PM »

Thanks for the kind words MASB. Things in Nintendoland seem to be veering towards the absurd and ridiculous, which is moving right into my wheelhouse.

[We brought in an eShop developer to advise RFN as we launch our hot new banger.]

290

Podcast Discussion / Episode 472: Epic Closet Octopus

« on: April 17, 2016, 02:18:22 PM »

We brought in an eShop developer to advise RFN as we launch our hot new banger.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42553/episode-472-epic-closet-octopus

This week we're pleased to be joined by Lewis Pugh, developer of the upcoming Wii U eShop exclusive Twisted Fusion. We've had Lewis on the show once before, but we thought it would be nice to touch base with him to see how his game is coming along and talk about making games in general. But first, it's New Business. As the guest, Lewis leads off with thoughts on eShop title Super Robot Mouse, before talking about his experience with the so-old-it's-timely-again Bravely Default. Greg reports from the Land of the Big Ape, with Donkey Kong Country 2 on the New 3DS VC. We talk about the "pixel-perfect" mode, and why it works well with the strange resolutions of SNES-era games. Jon names our grunge-rock revival band, with eShop experience Epic Dumpster Bear. The realism is staggering. Guillaume finishes up the segment by thinking outside the box, with Thomas Was Alone.

After the break, Lewis answers our questions about developing games for the eShop, getting into game development, iterating on game concepts, running a Kickstarter, and more. We even spend a little time talking about tools you can play with if Super Mario Maker left you with a game design itch of your own. If you've got an itch you'd like us to scratch, you can give us a shout by using our inbox.

Lastly, it's time for the next RetroActive. Apropos of nothing more than James being enraptured by the door sound effect in Rondo of Blood's music, we decided to do a Castlevania-themed RetroActive. We tried to take your suggestions and build a list that is representative of the series as a whole. Your candidates are:

• Super Castlevania IV (1991/SNES)
• Castlevania: Rondo of Blood (1993/PC Engine)
• Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow (2003/GBA)
• Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia (2008/DS)
• Castlevania: The Adventure ReBirth (2009/WiiWare)

You can vote now. Voting runs through the end of the month.

Thanks to Lewis for joining us. You can see progress updates for Twisted Fusion on his website.

291

TalkBack / Re: EarthBound (3DS) Review Revisit

« on: April 17, 2016, 02:23:08 PM »

I don't think that somebody's Favorite Game of All Time is necessarily going to be their Highest Rated Game of All Time.  You can absolutely adore a game but also recognize and admit its flaws.  In fact those flaws sometimes add to its charm, like say the out-of-whack player stats in Super Tecmo Bowl, one of my favorite games ever.

Really have to wonder how much of Earthbound was influenced by the 80's movie The Goonies. I really get the same flavor from both of them.

[Don't worry; my safe deposit box has climate control.]

292

Podcast Discussion / Episode 471: Blatterhouse

« on: April 10, 2016, 05:15:00 AM »

Don't worry; my safe deposit box has climate control.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42520/episode-471-blatterhouse

There is no escape from the Miitomo menace, but this week a renewed effort by the allies keeps evil in check. This allows for a more traditional (read: old) New Business. Guillaume leads off with his thoughts on the undeniably classic Yoshi's Story, now available on the long-forgotten N64 section of the Wii U Virtual Console. He follows up with a poke at WarioWare: Touched!, which is now available as a My Nintendo bonus. Jon gives us more thoughts on Miitomo, and a new mantra on life - "Stupid, not smart. Kids, take that to heart" - before updating us on his questionably-paced trek through Pokémon Yellow. Greg is trying to get himself ready for the impending release of Star Fox Zero by returning to the series' roots with Star Fox for the SNES (he's playing on original hardware, because that's the only way to play it officially). James closes out New Business with the most questionable of decisions: Project X Zone 2. Why did he buy a game he knows will make him crazy? Why is he playing it? Is he writing these questions in the hopes someone will save him from himself? Answers: No idea, No idea, Yes.

After an apology-worthy Now Playing segment it's time for Listener Mail. The Lords of Thunder were called for this week, but were apparently unable to answer their phones. Topics covered (slowly) include: future of emulation with console-specific hardware, RFN's in-jokes, should you sue Nintendo (yes), Zelda tech demos, and Nintendo's refusal to give us a proper Paper Mario game. You can send us your legal briefs via our inbox.

It's planning time for our next Retroactive, and this time we're turning our attention to Castlevania. We've somehow never featured a game in this legendary series, so it's time to solve this problem. We first need to select the candidates, so send us your suggested Castlevania games and we'll put out a poll in the next couple of weeks.

[Jon has found his soulmate, an impersonal robotic voice that repeats his every thought.]

293

Podcast Discussion / Episode 470: Identifying Your Daddy

« on: April 03, 2016, 02:33:00 PM »

Jon has found his soulmate, an impersonal robotic voice that repeats his every thought.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42432/episode-470-identifying-your-daddy

Miitomo has finally been released in North America, and it's already clear that Nintendo's mobile strategy was a mistake. Jon's Mii very quickly attempts to assert itself as the true fifth cast member, a possibility that simply cannot be allowed. James makes a valiant effort to bring back the cleansing light of the sun with puzzle-platformer 6180 the moon, for the Wii U eShop. Failing that, he attempts a slow-speed escape via Japanese Rail Sim 3D Journey in the Suburbs #1. Greg reports on the other, less haunting, half of Nintendo's big launches: My Nintendo. Also unable to stem the tide of Jon's Mii-sona, he becomes his inner bird and tries to fly his helicopter away in Japanese GameCube import Kururin Squash! Guillaume seems put out by the show's robotic interloper, and accordingly has impressions of Etrian Odyssey Untold: The Millennium Girl - the remake of the first game in the series that has a frequency indicative of automated creation. Finally, the inescapable reality of Jon and Jonbot is upon us, with RFN's second audio-only Let's Play! If you were excited at James' tour of TVii, you'll be thrilled to hear a virtual Jon mention "cock" eleven thousand times.

After a much needed break, the team returns with Listener Mail. James' delicate curation creates a delightful set of emails covering: the remaining life of 3DS and Wii U, why platforms die, why Nintendo refuses to sell us their music (with a brief cameo from James Jones Esq.), and the impact of Nintendo selling VC games repeatedly on sales of new indie games on their digital platforms. You can ask us questions via Miitomo, I suppose, but based on Jon's recent behavior I wouldn't recommend it. Instead, send your email to our inbox. I promise 60% less middle school humor.

[I just want to see his diary!]

294

Podcast Discussion / Episode 469: Sneaking into Danny Bivens' Room

« on: March 27, 2016, 08:33:57 AM »

I just want to see his diary!

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42346/episode-469-sneaking-into-danny-bivens-room

There's a growing backlog of Nintendo products currently available only in Japan, and as the universe's most authoritative for all Nintendo information, RFN is obligated to act. To get all the details on: Miitomo, Tokyo Mirage Sessions, and Shin Megami Tensei IV: Final we recruited friend of the show Syrenne McNulty, who lives and breathes these kinds of very Japanese experiences. Gui continues to try to love Breath of Fire, taking a chance with Breath of Fire II for the GBA. Does the double experience help? No, but apparently he hates video games now anyway. Greg tries his hand at the demo for Pokkén Tournament and finishes up with Twilight Princess HD. The rest of the team feigns interest, still worn out having talked about the game last year. Jon cautioned that giving his thoughts on the Halo World Championship would turn into a "15-minute philosophical discussion," and despite James' insistence that he would keep it under control, Jon's predictions were on point. James, in a sacrifice for the show, passed on his New Business this week, not because he couldn't remember the terrible name of Wii U eShop title 6180 the moon.

After the break, we decided to chat about rumors, hoaxes, and the desire to believe - in light of the recent NX controller hoaxes. At the time of recording, the second hoax had not been revealed as a 3D-printed model, but the first had been confirmed as CG. We start on point, but at some point segway into largely unrelated territory - a trek befitting Radio Free Nintendo.

No Listener Mail this week, but that's what makes our show go. Fuel up our production with your emails.

[How do you judge the value of a man who lazily uses memes to make a joke about memes while they themselves are overusing a meme? Harshly.]

295

Podcast Discussion / Episode 468: Oops! All Memes

« on: March 20, 2016, 11:11:30 AM »

How do you judge the value of a man who lazily uses memes to make a joke about memes while they themselves are overusing a meme? Harshly.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42316/episode-468-oops-all-memes

Radio Free Nintendo has been off-script for a few weeks. In an attempt to reset the balance, Grand Imperator James ordered up a double-serving of Listener Mail for the team. Greg, Jon, and Gui start the show off with a tremendous display of insolence and disrespect, but once order is restored the email flow begins. In the first half of the show we cover GameTrailers' "recent" closing, the "recent" release of Fire Emblem: Fates and its "recent" success, and backwards compatibility with the NX (as always, we don't know anything about NX).

After the break, and the triumphant return of Now Playing, it's yet again time for Listener Mail! In the second act of the show we cover our pick for the best Punch-Out!! game, game design and "quality of life," and gaming in bed. Total email count this week: 8. It's just a start, but we do our best work under pressure. Weigh down our inbox with your emails. No promises of a return to normalcy, as they have been largely unfulfilled, but do know that such insolence will not go unpunished.

[I'll just say it: the "Bravely" series is weird.]

296

Podcast Discussion / Episode 467: Cake Boss

« on: March 13, 2016, 01:27:10 PM »

I'll just say it: the "Bravely" series is weird.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42274/episode-467-cake-boss

This week's episode was cut short unexpectedly (blame James; it's okay, he writes this article), so we only had time for a New Business segment before he was rendered completely incapacitated. However, this singular focus leaves the RFN Action News Team best positioned to report from the center of the 3DS JRPG Nor'easter. Jon kicks off with coverage of the storm's progress as it travels across the Kanto Region of Pokémon Yellow, now available on the 3DS Virtual Console. Did having a monochrome electric mouse following his avatar around teach him to love again? It would have, if he had a heart. Guillaume reports from the research desk, giving up a historical primer on past JRPG waves, with his thoughts on SNES classic Breath of Fire (Wii U Virtual Console). It's a bit primitive for his tastes, and James agrees but seems unwilling to admit it. James continues to track the progress of the Fire Emblem Fates low pressure system, as he reaches the tail end of Birthright. Worryingly, it looks like there are two more storms on his horizon. Lastly, Greg switches it up with the human interest story that is Twilight Princess HD, the remake of the recently RetroActive'd GameCube and Wii Zelda game. He then puts on his rain slicker to join the rest of the RFN Action News Team in the center of the maelstrom with Bravely Second, the sequel to the never-ending Bravely Default.

RFN Action News will continue to report on the JRPG Storm of the Century next week, but we'll also have a report on your email. You can send us a tip via our inbox.

[The long awaited Xenoblade Chronicles X episode is finally here.]

297

Podcast Discussion / Episode 466 Part 2: A Lot More than We Could Manage

« on: March 06, 2016, 11:00:25 AM »

The long awaited Xenoblade Chronicles X episode is finally here.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42219/episode-466-part-2-a-lot-more-than-we-could-manage

After months of promises, Radio Free Nintendo finally is delivering the Xenoblade Chronicles X spoilercast. If the previous sentence doesn't give enough warning, there are plenty of spoilers for Monolith Soft's world-exploration JRPG in this episode; so you'll probably want to skip this one if you haven't finished the game. Conveniently, if you still need a Radio Free Nintendo fix, we already released an episode covering last week's Nintendo Direct - we moved it up just so you would still have something to listen to. Surprising even to us, we care.

We talk mechanics, story, world, and whatever else we can think of in this massive show. We ponder hot topics like "at what point is xenophobia justified," and "how many arms manufacturers is the bare minimum for space exploration." Loose threads are tied, Skells are perfected, Hexad Particans are polished and giant space gorillas vaporized.

Thanks to everyone who sent in emails for this episode. We had more participation than we had time to use, which is an awesome problem to have.

Next week we're returning to our regular format, so send your questions or comments to our mailbag.

Also, stay tuned to the RFN feed for a special interview of frequent guest Michael "TYP" Cole, by former RFN host Dr. Jonathan Metts, later this week.

[Nobody can wait for Pocket Card Jockey or Radio Free Nintendo.]

298

Podcast Discussion / Episode 466 Part 1: A Well-Crafted Direct, Clearly Made by Professionals

« on: March 03, 2016, 06:04:13 PM »

Nobody can wait for Pocket Card Jockey or Radio Free Nintendo.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42106/episode-466-part-1-a-well-crafted-direct-clearly-made-by-professionals

It had been 112 days since the last proper Nintendo Direct, and Nintendo finally answered fans' prayers. Jon, Greg, Gui, and James decided this kind of an event couldn't wait until Sunday for our expert analysis. We have all the topics you care about from the latest Nintendo Direct: Yo-Kai: Romance of Three Kingdoms, Fire Emblem: Cipher, Lost Reavers, Disney Art Academy, Culdcept Revolt, and Pocket Card Jockey. The team even finds time to talk about entries in lesser-known game franchises they think you should keep an eye on, such as: Paper Mario: Color Splash, Star Fox Zero, and Monster Hunter Generations. When everyone is surprised that you knew about these under-the-radar titles, let 'em know Radio Free Nintendo gave you the scoop.

If you're wondering why we posted this episode so early, or why it's labeled as 466 Part 1, that's because it's finally time for our Xenoblade Chronicles X Spoilercast. We recorded it on Wednesday, and will be releasing the two hour single-segment show Sunday evening at the regular time. If you haven't finished the game, and are sensitive to spoilers, you should probably listen only after you're done with the game.

We'll be back next week with a regular episode. If you have questions or reactions to today's Direct, feel free to send them to our mailbag.

[Finally, we have found the true reason Nintendo's "voice chat system" is not workable.]

299

Podcast Discussion / Episode 465: Pump Down the Jams

« on: February 28, 2016, 12:08:00 PM »

Finally, we have found the true reason Nintendo's "voice chat system" is not workable.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/rfn/42019/episode-465-pump-down-the-jams

After recording this show for the better pat of a decade, you would think we've seen every way that Skype could intervene in the process of recording a podcast, and yet Microsoft's voice chat platform always finds new ways to surprise. Never let it be said that RFN isn't determined, so record a podcast we did! James starts it off with early impressions of Fire Emblem Fates: Birthright. Did he start on the wrong difficulty setting? Absolutely. Should he have gone with Conquest? Probably. Yet, here we are - and the forces of Nohr are paying for his mistakes. Guillaume has thoughts on another "narrative experience" with broken computer-sim/database search tool Her Story. After that, he continues plumbing the depths of exposition with Virtue's Last Reward. Jon has an update on Witcher 3, and he now finds himself bewitched; I'm aware the exact same joke was used in last week's article. Greg has his hands on Europe's big 3DS JRPG of the month, Bravely Second: End Layer, although thought are quite early. He follows with thought on Stealth Inc. 2.

After the break, we answer a trio of Listener Mail questions. First up we are asked about the "hidden gems" of the Gameboy Advance; Drill Dozer is offered without any acknowledgement of the pun. Next we address the first manifesto sent to our inbox in months, Nintendo's abusive streak of sub-par games. Lastly, we brainstorm Nintendo-crossover games, in the style of Hyrule Warriors. Suggestions go to all the awful places you would expect of us. Send your manifestos to our mailbag.

[Daan Koopman plays the worst of the eShop, and his reward is Jon and James' insightful commentary on his works.]

300

TalkBack / RFN Presents - Never Read the YouTube Comments: Jon and James Talk Over Lucentek

« on: February 25, 2016, 04:30:04 PM »

Daan Koopman plays the worst of the eShop, and his reward is Jon and James' insightful commentary on his works.

http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/video/41965/rfn-presents-never-read-the-youtube-comments-jon-and-james-talk-over-lucentek

James asked Radio Free Nintendo listeners what non-podcast content they'd like to see the RFN crew produce. Well, wouldn't you know that friend of the show Daan Koopman suggested they provide a commentary track for his Lucentek gameplay video. So, that's exactly what James and Jon did! If you want to play along at home, start the audio player below, listen to James' intro, and then start the video when James counts it down. You might just win a 2017 Kia Dragon!*

Let us know what you think of this feature, and we may just do more content like it, assuming Jon ever recovers.

*This is a lie