In this ad-hoc episode of Blowing Cartridges, Zach calls in from his holiday in Japan to discuss all things Nintendo, covering topics ranging from the Nintendo Museum, Super Nintendo World, shopping for Nintendo merchandise in Japan and how widely is the Nintendo Switch 2 being marketed in Japan. Brendan - @Tamazoid Zach - @Eggerino Intro music - '8 Bit Ditty' by FoolBoyMedia Outro - 'Video Game Land' by FoolBoyMedia...
May 12, 2025•56 min•Ep. 75
This week, we’re welcoming back our good friend Dave for a deep dive into the wild world of video game spinoffs — all inspired by the recent announcements of Kirby Air Riders and Donkey Kong Bonanza! While we may be more confused that when we started this conversation, we delve into what exactly is a spin-off, can you differentiate spin-offs and sub-series and what makes a great spin-off stand out from the crowd. Plus, we get into the bigger picture: why spinoffs matter, what they bring to gamin...
Apr 28, 2025•1 hr 33 min•Ep. 74
In this episode, we're joined by Dan of Switchingitup_ for a full breakdown of the latest Nintendo Direct focused on the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2! We dive into our most hyped games from the showcase, dissect the highs and lows of the presentation, and look ahead to what the Switch 2 means for Nintendo’s near future. Of course, we couldn’t avoid the big questions—pricing, potential tariffs, and whether Nintendo can strike the right balance as it transitions from what is projected to be ...
Apr 14, 2025•2 hr 27 min•Ep. 73
The Nintendo DS launched in Australia 20 years ago, and its impact on gaming still lingers today, being fondly remembered by a generation of past and current gamers. In this special retrospective, we’re joined by Ollie Brandt from Vooks.net to dive deep into the handheld that redefined not only portable gaming, but the wider gaming landscape. We discuss the DS’s groundbreaking dual-screen design, its massive success in broadening the gaming audience, and the iconic titles that defined an era—fro...
Mar 31, 2025•2 hr 2 min•Ep. 72
It’s time to plumbob up and reflect on one of the most iconic life-simulation games of all time! In this special 25th-anniversary episode of Blowing Cartridges, the crew takes a nostalgic (and sometimes chaotic) look back at The Sims—from its humble beginnings in 2000 to the global and enduring phenomenon it is today, sustaining a vibrant and diverse community of content creators and enthusiasts. Joining us for this Sim-tacular celebration is the Australian content creator, EA Partner and noted ...
Mar 17, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 71
With the reveal of the Switch 2 and its surprising mouse functionality, it’s the perfect time to dive headfirst into the weird and wonderful world of video game gimmicks. Joined by friend of the show Dave, we unpack what exactly makes something a “gimmick,” and take a nostalgic (and occasionally cringe-inducing) trip through gaming history — from the motion-controlled highs of the Nintendo Wii to the camera-based chaos of the PlayStation EyeToy, and the curious cardboard days of the Nintendo e-R...
Mar 03, 2025•2 hr 14 min•Ep. 70
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we dive into the high-stakes world of gambling in video games. With the recent changes to the Australian Classification Board (ACB) ratings, lootboxes and gambling mechanics are under greater scrutiny than ever. Are these changes enough to protect players, or just another regulatory speed bump for the industry? Joining us for this discussion is our special guest, Sam, who brings firsthand experience in Victorian gambling regulation. We break down the dimens...
Feb 17, 2025•1 hr 28 min•Ep. 69
As 2024 comes to a close, Zach and Brendan sit down with special guest Kieran of Hopk Gaming to reflect on the biggest gaming moments of the year. From groundbreaking releases to industry lay-offs, studio purchases and closures, we break down the headlines, the hits, and the flops that defined the past 12 months. What were the standout games? Which surprises caught us off guard? And what does it all mean for the future of video games? Join us for a deep dive into the year that was 2024! Brendan ...
Feb 03, 2025•1 hr 41 min•Ep. 68
It’s that time of year again! Our annual Video Game Music (VGM) episode returns, and we’re thrilled to have John back on the mic. This year, we’re diving into one of VGM's most memorable track types: end credit tunes. From heartwarming finales to epic outros with equally epic vocal accompaniments, we’re exploring the tracks that leave lasting impressions long after the game is over. Join us as we share our top 2 personal favorites, together with our favourite from 2024, break down the artistry o...
Jan 20, 2025•2 hr 5 min•Ep. 67
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, Brendan and Zach team up with special guest Josh Whittington to revisit the magical (and slightly expensive) world of the Toys to Life phenomenon that defined much of the early 2010s in gaming. From the groundbreaking launch of Skylanders to the imaginative universe of Disney Infinity and the ambitious crossover chaos (to one's wallet) of Lego Dimensions, the trio examines what made these franchises so captivating—and why the bubble eventually burst. They a...
Jan 06, 2025•1 hr 30 min•Ep. 66
In this jam-packed episode of Blowing Cartridges, special guests Josh, Chase, Alex, and Gookanheimer join Zach and Brendan to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as they explore the history of Nintendo connection tours in Australia. From the prize-filled and goodies rich roadshows of the 2000s, the expanded crew shares their personal experiences and favorite memories of these iconic events. The conversation then shifts to the present as they dive into Nintendo Live Australia 2024, held in Syd...
Dec 23, 2024•1 hr 55 min•Ep. 65
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we sit down with Australian video game journalist and developer, James O'Connor, to discuss his upcoming book Untitled Goose Game, soon to be published by Boss Fight Books. Available to back on Kickstarter, the book delves into the game's development and cultural impact. In the first half of the interview, James shares insights into the writing process, his experience discussing the game with House House, the developers of the game, and his approach of capt...
Sep 09, 2024•1 hr 21 min•Ep. 64
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, we dive into the world of video game movie tie-ins with special guest Luke of Maxi-Geek and Vookcast fame! Join us as we explore the highs and lows of games inspired by blockbuster movies, from the iconic classics such as Goldeneye to the notorious flops such as Minority Report. The trio chart the trajectory of such adaptations, including the rise in the 2000s of the video game sequel to an existing film, discussing why they believe video game tie-ins have ...
Aug 26, 2024•1 hr 32 min•Ep. 63
In this nostalgia-packed episode of Blowing Cartridges, we dive into the history of video game rentals, from their rise in the '80s and '90s to their eventual decline. Special guest Mark, a former Video Ezy employee from the 2000s, joins hosts Zach and Bremdan to share insider stories from behind the counter. They discuss their own memories and experiences of renting games, the excitement of discovering new titles every weekend, and the challenges that ultimately led to the end of an era. Tune i...
Aug 11, 2024•1 hr 20 min•Ep. 62
In this cosy episode of Blowing Cartridges, we explore the delightful world of wholesome and cosy games. Joined by podcaster and streamer FulishFuji, we delve into the charm and appeal of these games that offer comfort, relaxation, and a soothing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. FulishFuji shares personal favorites, discusses the impact of cosy games on mental well-being, and provides insights into the growing popularity of this genre. Tune in for an episode filled with genre ...
Jul 05, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 61
Gamers may have noticed that over the recent month there has been a plethora of video game announcements, as platform holders and other groups have hosted a number of gaming showcases. Many new games have been announced, alongside further information being provided about previously revealed games. In this episode we're thrilled to welcome Alex Harding, the mind behind the IndiEXP, an Australian marketing agency dedicated to the promotion of indie games. Dive into the dynamic world of video game ...
Jun 19, 2024•1 hr 47 min•Ep. 60
In this episode of the Blowing Cartridges Podcast, we celebrate 25 years of Super Smash Bros, Nintendo's iconic crossover fighting game series that has captivated gamers since its debut in 1999. Join our hosts, alongside special guests Alex and Paul as they dive into the rich history of the franchise, from its humble beginnings on the Nintendo 64 to its latest iteration on the Nintendo Switch. We explore the game's evolution, memorable characters, and groundbreaking mechanics that have made it a...
Jun 04, 2024•2 hr 5 min•Ep. 59
Join us for an immersive journey into the richly detailed world of "Pentiment," the critically acclaimed narrative RPG, developed by Obsidian Entertainment and first released in 2022. In this episode, your hosts delve deep into the game's unique art style, historical setting, and intricate storytelling. We're thrilled to welcome a special guest, Buck, a self-describe 'Pentiment sicko', who brings his experience and engaging commentary to the discussion. Discover how "Pentiment" masterfully inter...
May 20, 2024•2 hr 19 min•Ep. 58
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, our hosts, joined by returning guest Mario, dive deep into the captivating world of Metroidvania games. From the atmospheric depths of "Castlevania: Symphony of the Night" to the futuristic exploration of "Metroid Prime," they unravel the intricate design and evolution of Metroidvanias, particularly over the past fifteen years. Join them as they dissect the core elements that define a Metroidvania experience, from interconnected level design to unlocking ne...
Apr 15, 2024•1 hr 30 min•Ep. 57
Join the Blowing Cartridges Podcast for an episode featuring Brian Costelloe, aka Sincespacies, as he takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through the world of Sega gaming in Australia. From his time working at the iconic Sega Hotline to sharing anecdotes about classic Sega titles and hardware, Brian offers firsthand insights into the unique experiences and challenges faced by Australian gamers during the Sega era. This episode provides a glimpse into the continuing legacy of Sega in Australia...
Apr 01, 2024•1 hr 51 min•Ep. 56
In this episode of the Blowing Cartridges Podcast, we were thrilled to be joined by Nick Cellini, to talk all about his Australian indie studio Turtle Flip Studio and their upcoming game 'Which Way Up.' Join us as we discuss all things related to indie game development in Australia. Nick details his journey in the games industry, shares his design approach and philosophy as well as the challenges he has faced in the development journey of Which Way Up, which is set to release in Q1 2025. Try the...
Mar 18, 2024•1 hr 33 min•Ep. 55
In this episode of Blowing Cartridges, hosts Zach and Brendan, complete neophytes when it comes to all things cosplay, invite Ria and Mes, two experienced cosplayers, to explore the world of cosplay, which has increasingly become a vital part of not only gaming culture, but broader entertainment culture, establishing itself as the outward face of the majority of pop culture and gaming conventions. The discussion spans various aspects of cosplaying, including how they started in the hobby, compet...
Mar 04, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Ep. 54
In our first recorded episode of 2024, we were excited to be joined by another first-time guest, Buddy Watson, a veteran of Australian video game podcasts, to discuss the year in gaming that was 2023. Addressing issues and topics such as record-level layoffs, film adaptations of video games, the increasing digitalisation of gaming media and our favourite games of the year, we finish with some wild predictions of what some of the highlights/lowlights of gaming in 2024 will be. Have any comments? ...
Feb 19, 2024•1 hr 51 min•Ep. 53
This year we are mixing it up! We are back again for our annual VGM special, but this time with a twist. Zach has devised a new format where each of the three participants were tasked with drafted four composers in a snake draft, each assembling a dream team of composers. So sit back and listen as the trio discuss a wide range of composers from the last 30+ years of video game composition. Additionally, let us know who you think assembled the 'best' slate of composers! Have any comments? Feel fr...
Feb 05, 2024•3 hr 4 min•Ep. 52
Joined by special guest Ben from Qualbert.com, this episode Zach and Brendan dive into a discussion regarding the past, present and future of the video game journalism landscape in Australia. How different is the media we consume (and how we consume) compared to when this trio were growing up in the late 90s/early 2000s? How do these experiences shape the media we consume and produce? Ben shares his insight and experience of building an enthusiast, volunteer-run gaming news and review website, t...
Jan 15, 2024•1 hr 26 min•Ep. 51
First launching in mid-2020 during the height of the pandemic, Blowing Cartridges has hit its 50th episode! We would like to thank all our listeners for supporting our journey, tuning in to each episode and suggesting to your friends to listen to our podcast! To celebrate, Brendan and Zach decided to invite friends of the show and semi-regular guests Drew from the House of Mario and Josh from Nintenvania to discuss their podcast journey, their overall experience in running Blowing Cartridges and...
Dec 20, 2023•1 hr 27 min•Ep. 50
Game development in contemporary Australia is a vibrant and ever-growing industry, led by a strong and innovative indie developer scene. Yet the sector has a long and turbulent history of periodic rapid growth and subsequent decline. Taking a step back to the mid-to-late 2000s, on this episode Andrew Hung joined Zach and Brendan to discuss his journey as a game developer that saw him credited on 8 games between 2005-2009. Working for Transmission Games and then subsequently EA Melbourne Studios ...
Dec 06, 2023•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 49
Roleplaying games (RPGs) have a rich history as a genre in video games, with some of the earliest and most influential video games being RPGs. Directly inspired by Dungeons and Dragons, games such as Ultima and Wizardry, to more modern games like Baldurs Gate 3, Skyrim, the Witcher Starfield and the ever-present World of Warcraft dominate much of the discourse surrounding video games. While previously, Zach and Brendan have discussed 'JRPGs', which is arguable a genre in its own right, in this e...
Nov 21, 2023•1 hr 50 min•Ep. 48
Since its inception in 2013, Pax Australia has become an established pillar of the Australian video game landscape. Every year, tens of thousands flock to Melbourne to celebrate all things gaming and gaming culture, from the latest blockbuster video games, to the offerings of the ever-growing Australian Indie scene, to cosplay, industry and enthusiast panels, boardgames and more. But what does PAX mean to us, and why do we continue to attend every single year (when able to do so?). Joining Zach ...
Nov 10, 2023•2 hr 34 min•Ep. 47
In the late 2000s rhythm games were everywhere. Spurred on by the Guitar Hero & Rock Band craze it seems that nearly all games had a plastic instrument or two awkwardly propped up in their cupboards or surrounding their gaming setups. While this craze is long dead, alongside Guitar Hero and a much-diminished Rock Band, rhythm games still exist in a variety of forms. In this genre-specific episode, Brendan and Zach are joined by plastic instrument enthusiast Rickie to discuss all things rhyth...
Oct 19, 2023•1 hr 34 min•Ep. 46
