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The Last of Us

This episode was constructed to analyze the game The Last of Us. It began with an examination of our main characters; Joel and Ellie. We look at the psychopathic behaviors from Joel and admiringly mature behavior from Ellie. We used these aspects of the game to illuminate what the game engineers were trying to do for the players’ experience. We also speak on the current topic of the COVID-19 virus and how the nightmare-like situations of the game relate to our quarantine.

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Tetris

In this episode of “Ready, Set, Game”, Zamirah and Rachel will be analyzing the widely-popular game, Tetris. What makes this simple game so addictive to a countless number of players around the world? How can we apply the strategies of this game to our lives? How can this game influence real-world thoughts and perspectives? Tune in to hear our thoughts!

  • Producer: Rachel Vellanikaran
  • Assistant Producer: Zamirah Martin
  • Line Producer: Austin Carter

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Undertale

In this episode, we will be discussing the ways the mechanics of the game inspire SuperBetter strategies and probing. After falling down a hole in the Great Mountain, you find yourself surrounded by monsters! What can they teach us about bullet-hell-shooters and retro games? Is talking to your enemies a valuable life lesson? And why are there pieces of determination and bone puns flying about? After listening to this podcast, perhaps you will realize that monsters have a SOUL just like we do.

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Rummy

In this podcast episode, Giovanni, Will and Sadie explore the general group of games called Rummy. Rummy is a basic game of drawing and discarding typically played with cards, but has been adapted to various mediums. After a brief introduction of the game, we will discuss the role of games in socialization and quarantining. Each of our experiences with Rummy demonstrate how card games can entertain and bond together any crowd.  So buckle up, strap down and let’s play!

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Fireboy and Watergirl: Nostalgia and Connection

By looking back at the generation born in the 2000s, the first video games they had access to were on free websites using Flash. In this episode, Jessica and George reminisce on their days playing Fireboy and Watergirl and talk about the potential benefits that kids gained from playing this game. From confidence to connection to communication, listen now to possibly reveal something new about your childhood and work on living gamefully. Sources: Music Sources:

Plague, Inc.

In this episode, we will discuss the gaming mechanism and the real-life influence of Plague inc., a real-time strategy simulation video game. How does this game wok? What does it feel like to play Plague Inc. after the COVID-19 outbreak? Why it is so popular all over the world? The discussion closely relates to the globally concerned coronavirus problem. If you feel like this episode will cause you anxiety and stress, please skip over.

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Monument Valley

In this episode, we will discuss the gaming mechanism and the real-life influence of Monument Valley and what makes that game special in comparison with other games in the market. What questions does it raise? What change they will bring to the players. The discussion is focused on what this game taught us in real life. Hope you will enjoy it!

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Todd Baker, youtube channel link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuRf9JXTBEl2ZLUEy6iTfxA

Obfusc, youtube channel link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC07jwGgJbdgDDmeGIfPtstQ

Chess: The Game of Strategy

In this podcast episode, Will, Giovanni, and Sadie take a deep dive into the game of Chess–the setup, rules, strategies, and applications to everyday life.  How does Chess enhance our ability to think a few steps ahead and maintain a clear end goal? How can we take effective action to succeed in a Chess game? Hopefully after listening, you will come away with a new outlook on the importance of strategy. Sources: Music:

Keeping your head in the game

In this episode, Greg and I will be discussing the soccer video game FIFA 20. We will discuss how sports video games can simulate a real-life situation and bring people together virtually. In the midst of a global pandemic where people are socially distancing, there is no better time to discuss how e-sports compare to real-life sports and how people can stay involved in their favorite sports when they are unable to be physically played. We also examine how e-sports can fill a void in our lives and how they will continue to evolve in the future. Join us on the soccer pitch!

Producer: Michael Mariam

Assistant Producer: Greg Lawrence

Line Producer: Winslow Wanglee

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Music Sources: Free Music Archive

All music by Scott Holmes in the album Corporate & Motivational Music 2:

Thinking with Portals

In this episode Kathy and I will be taking a closer look at Portal 2, a puzzle game made by Valve Corporation in 2011. The players find themselves inside of a test chamber, equipped with a portal gun, and have to use the power of portals to figure out a way to escape. How does a 9 year old game still appeal to modern gamers? Come and join us as we explore how the dedicated and passionate player-base has helped elevate this game to a place that the developers would not have been capable of reaching alone.

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