On this episode of Random Encounter, we're looking at a game-of-the-year contender and the latest from one of the industry's most visionary indie devs. First up, Izzy is here to chat about Dragon's Dogma 2 . The sequel to Capcom's cult-classic Dragon's Dogma , DD2 is the true realization of many of the ahead-of-their-time gameplay mechanics of its predecessor. However, this positive fanfare has recently been overshadowed by the controversy of predatory microtransactions included in this full-pri...
Apr 01, 2024•1 hr 22 min
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're looking at two very different kinds of follow-ups to beloved games: a spiritual successor and a fan game. First up, we're talking about a long-awaited revival of Ogre Battle -style SRPGs with Vanillaware's Unicorn Overlord (the most bizarre name for a game since Triangle Strategy ). Featuring a mix of real-time strategy, turn-based party combat, and overworld exploration, Unicorn Overlord really hit the sweet spot for Josh. Is it a game for everyone, th...
Mar 18, 2024•1 hr 22 min
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're taking a look at a long-running RPG series that has only made sporadic, but noteworthy, appearances here in the West! Mystery Dungeon began as a Dragon Quest IV spinoff back in 1993, but since then, there have been dozens of games in the series, including crossover titles with Final Fantasy ( Chocobo’s Dungeon 2 ) and Pokémon ( Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX ), along with a standalone series ( Mystery Dungeon: Shiren the Wanderer ). And with th...
Mar 04, 2024•1 hr 12 min
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's finally time to talk about one of the most anticipated "Part 2s" in video game history: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth ! Ever since part 1 of the FFVII remake trilogy, Final Fantasy VII Remake , was released in 2020, we've been desperate to know where the story is heading. Will it continue along as we remember it, or diverge in unexpected and, no doubt, controversial ways? Never fear, because Zach is here to chat about his review of Rebirth , sharing his thou...
Feb 27, 2024•1 hr 8 min
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're "cranking" up our game to chat about a farming-centric piece of DLC for a pixel-art action RPG and a rogue-like on a tiny, black-and-white screen. First, Nick is here to share his thoughts about the farming DLC for 2021's Eastward , Eastward: Octopia . Having received solid reviews back when it was released, this new DLC strips out all of the combat and replaces it with some robust farm-sim mechanics. Coming in at around 20 hours' worth of gameplay for ...
Feb 19, 2024•1 hr 20 min
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're looking at a remake of an 18-year-old game and the release of a game that felt like it took 18 years to come out. Since its announcement in 2016, Granblue Fantasy: Relink has been on many RPG fans' most anticipated lists (it was on ours in 2020, 2022, 2023 AND 2024). And after seven years, it's finally here! Des dives into this long-awaited action RPG to discover if it can possibly live up to expectations! Then, Aleks revisits a new iteration of an old ...
Feb 05, 2024•1 hr 17 min
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're chatting about the latest installment in the Yakuza franchise, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth , and the indie point-and-click adventure game, Lil' Guardsman . First, Jono dives into Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth , the direct sequel to 2020's Yakuza: Like a Dragon . Does Infinite Wealth live up to the lofty turn-based JRPG expectations set by its predecessor? Then, Audra mans the review guardshed with the Canadian indie title, Lil' Guardsman . Does she ...
Jan 23, 2024•1 hr 11 min
Welcome to 2024! This year at Random Encounter, we're on the road to episode 300, so let's start the new year right by chatting about some games! First up, Jerry is here to talk about the experimental visual novel, Slay the Princess . In complete opposition to just about every video game plot ever, here you need to kill the princess or the world is doomed! Or is it? With a ton of endings and twists around every choice, Slay the Princess has captured Jerry's attention as a potentially overlooked ...
Jan 08, 2024•1 hr 22 min
On the final 2023 episode of Random Encounter, we're chatting about all the games we're excited about that are coming in 2024! At the end of December, RPGFan publishes one of the year's biggest features: our most anticipated games expected to come out next year. And that means a chance to get together on Random Encounter to have a year-end freak out about all the games that will inevitably be added to our backlogs! 2023 was a banner year for gaming, but will 2024 follow in its footsteps? From Fi...
Dec 26, 2023•2 hr 20 min
On this episode of Random Encounter, we chat all of the news from the 2023 Game Awards, and delve into two recent indie RPGs. First, The Game Awards came and went faster than the music playing off the winners! Baldur's Gate 3 was the champion of the evening with Best Game, but Alan Wake 2 walked away with a good share of the awards, as well. Join the panel as we gossip about the absolute boatload of game announcements that we can expect in 2024 and 2025 (and, if we're being really honest, probab...
Dec 11, 2023•1 hr 21 min
On the next Random Encounter, we delve into the vibrant worlds of Super Mario RPG and Persona 5 Tactica , and tackle the complex issue of redemption arcs in game publishing. First, Caitlin unpacks the Super Mario RPG Remake. Despite some minor frame rate drops and easy difficulty, does the game's timeless appeal shine through in this newly revitalized Switch release? Following that, Ben explores Persona 5 Tactica . Diverging from the gameplay of previous Persona SRPGs and instead pulling from XC...
Nov 27, 2023•1 hr 19 min
On the next Random Encounter, we're taking a deep dive into Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name , Star Ocean: The Second Story R , and Dave the Diver ! First, Jono discovers the yakuza's latest crisis in Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name . Does this shorter Yakuza tale live up to its pedigree? Then Izzy Parsons gets to relive their childhood with the recent remake, Star Ocean: The Second Story R . Does this remake do justice to the original PSX game? Finally, Sollos...
Nov 13, 2023•1 hr 19 min
On the next Random Encounter, we're exploring the narrative horror depths of World of Horror and the deep strategic and colorful layers of Wargroove 2. First, Bob Richardson will guide us through World of Horror . With its unique 1-bit artistic style and roguelike narrative structure, does the game offer a lasting experience that keeps players coming back for more? Following that, Ben Love will share his thoughts on Wargroove 2 . The game brings new gameplay mechanics and thematic elements to th...
Oct 30, 2023•1 hr 6 min
On this week’s Random Encounter, Zach steps in as your host to guide us through RPGFan’s 25th-anniversary special, Revisiting RPGFan Games of the Year: Bracket Battle . Joining Zach are Audra, Jimmy, and Aleks, each bringing their own perspectives on what makes a Game of the Year truly deserving of the title. But the final choice of the best GOTY in 25 years doesn’t lie with them; it lies with you! So, tune in and get ready to cast your votes. After all, the ultimate GOTY is in your hands. Featu...
Oct 16, 2023•1 hr 23 min
On this week's Random Encounter, we're diving into a piece of DLC that redeems one of gaming's biggest disappointments, a Souls-like that cannot tell a lie, and a classic celebrating its 30th anniversary. First, Aleks guides us through the shadowy world of Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty . Does this DLC redeem 2020's Cyberpunk 2077 , or does it miss the mark? Following that, Noah takes us into the steampunk-inspired, puppet-filled realm of Lies of P . Does it distinguish itself in the crowded So...
Oct 02, 2023•1 hr 11 min
On this week's Random Encounter, we're delving into two recent farm-sim RPGs, exploring if they bring anything new to the genre. First, Niki takes us through the remaster/remake of the classic DS farm-sim Rune Factory 3 Special . Is there anything genuinely special about it, or should you stick with more recent entries of the series? Following that, Sam visits the enchanting universe of Fae Farm . Does it set itself apart in the saturated market of farming simulations, or do the numerous bugs sa...
Sep 18, 2023•1 hr 6 min
On this week's Random Encounter, we're blasting off to new galaxies and sailing through enchanted seas with two of the most anticipated RPGs of 2023! First, Noah navigates the cosmic expanses of Starfield , Bethesda's highly anticipated space exploration RPG. With the expectations of Skyrim in Space ringing in everyone's ears, does Starfield end up living up to the hype? Or does it end up crashing to Earth (along with crashing to our desktops)? Then, Caitlin sets sail to mysterious islands in th...
Sep 04, 2023•1 hr 35 min
On this week's Random Encounter, we're diving into the realms of fantasy and musical adventure! First, Abe takes on the epic challenge of reviewing Baldur's Gate III, the long-awaited CRPG sequel that brings Dungeons & Dragons to life! With intricate storytelling, deep character customization, and intense tactical combat, does it roll a nat 20? Then, Audra explores the harmonious world of Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical. Combining the thrill of RPGs with the beauty of musical theatre, St...
Aug 21, 2023•1 hr 3 min
On this week's Random Encounter, we're stepping into the wrestling ring and exploring an anti-RPG! First, Neal gets into his tights and fights for the title with WrestleQuest , a pixel RPG that echoes the golden era of professional wrestling. Filled with iconic wrestles and thrilling moves, does it pin Neal's attention? Then, Ben explores the mysterious world of 24 Killers , an anti-RPG in the style of Moon . Filled with quirky characters, unexpected twists, and absurd plot twists, does it live ...
Aug 07, 2023•1 hr 3 min
On this week's Random Encounter, we're looking at a lost Nintendo game, and what might become one of the greatest RPG soundtracks of all time. If you are from the West, you may not have heard of Marvelous: Another Treasure Island . This late-era SNES/Super Famicom title was never localized, but it had a massive impact on gaming history, especially for The Legend of Zelda franchise. Josh chats with us about if the game holds up today, or if it is a link best left in the past. And then Patrick is ...
Jul 24, 2023•1 hr 4 min
On this week's Random Encounter, we're finally breaking free of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom , Not-E3, and Final Fantasy XVI ! Time to talk about some (other) games! First up, Audra delights in the RPG crossover to end all RPG crossovers, The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie . Probably not the game you want to try to get into the Trails series , but if you're a fan, it's a must-play. And then Peter takes a deep dive into the world of anime detectives and sexy ghosts in the new ...
Jul 10, 2023•1 hr 3 min
On this week's Random Encounter, we're talking about Final Fantasy XVI ! It's been six years since the last numbered Final Fantasy game, but the wait is finally over, and Final Fantasy XVI has finally arrived! There's so much to talk about that we're dedicating an entire episode to it, hosted by our FFXVI reviewer, Zach! Whether you've just started the demo or have already beaten the game, there is something in this Random Encounter for everyone who is excited about this brand-new fantasy epic! ...
Jun 26, 2023•1 hr 21 min
On this week's Random Encounter, it's all about Not-E3! If you're a video game fan, Not-E3 week is like Christmas, Easter, and Halloween all rolled into one! Though a few shows are still coming up next week, the big ones are all finished, and our panel is here to discuss the massive amount of RPG and adventure game news and trailers that dropped! It's one of the biggest episodes of the year, and we've assembled a fantastic panel, so let's talk about some games! Featuring: Jono Logan, Alvin Lim, ...
Jun 12, 2023•1 hr 47 min
On this week's Random Encounter, we're seeing the beginnings of the Not-E3 season! If you're a video game fan, it's getting close to the most wonderful time of the year! There are slightly under two weeks until Summer Game Fest, but we still have a ton of news to discuss from Wednesday's PlayStation Showcase and Thursday's Marvelous Game Showcase, including Final Fantasy XVI , Dragon's Dogma 2 , and Rune Factory 6 . Join our panel to learn all about the RPGs and adventure games we will be playin...
May 29, 2023•1 hr 11 min
On this Saturday's emergency Random Encounter, we're discussing The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom! We've assembled a panel of three people who loved Breath of the Wild, one who liked it, and one who just wasn't a fan. The plan was to meet up to talk about the entirety of TOTK, beginning to end. Unfortunately, that plan ran directly into a major roadblock, which was that TOTK has got to be one of the most massive games ever made. So, here are our 40+-hour impressions instead! Is it as goo...
May 20, 2023•1 hr 38 min
On this week's Random Encounter, we're talking about two highly anticipated sequels (although one is slightly more anticipated than the other). First up, Jono and Mike share their initial impressions of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom , the long-awaited direct sequel to 2017's Breath of the Wild . Does it meet their sky-high expectations? And then, Audra, Mike, and Hilary get to have a good old coffee hangout chatting about Coffee Talk 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly , the sequel to 2020's...
May 15, 2023•56 min
On this week's Random Encounter, we're talking about a highly anticipated piece of DLC and a very highly anticipated remake (that we were never quite sure we would EVER see)! First up is Caitlin talking about the Horizon Forbidden West DLC, Burning Shores . In it, we visit the post-apocalyptical ruins of Los Angeles, but do Aloy's Hollywood dreams live up to Caitlin's expectations? Then, Ben fills us in about the long-delayed Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot Camp . These eagerly-awaited remakes of GBA ...
May 08, 2023•1 hr 12 min
On this week's Random Encounter, we're looking at two games (technically, 11 games) that bring us fully into cyberspace! First, Peter downloads his thoughts on the new visual novel based on Disney's Tron franchise, TRON: IDENTITY . Does it capture the cyber-magic of the classic 80s film and its 2010s follow-up? Then, Abe confronts the monumental task of getting through all ten games included in the massive Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection . Do these classic GBA RPGs from the early 2000s...
Apr 24, 2023•1 hr 5 min
On this week’s Random Encounter, we’re talking about two games that, frankly, we can’t believe exist. Many of us expect certain game series to “stay in their lane.” Mega Man is a platformer. Doom is an FPS. Metroid is, well, a Metroidvania. But when a series tries something completely different in a new genre, the results can vary in quality. Audra recently reviewed two such games, one that wildly succeeded and one that spectacularly failed. First up is The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog , a game ...
Apr 10, 2023•58 min
On this episode of Random Encounter, we’re talking about how to introduce your children to video games, specifically RPGs. We’re far away from the 1980s, back when most parents saw video games as a “fad” or “waste of time.” Instead, parents nowadays see games as a legitimate form of entertainment at worst and an art form at best. So, how should parents today introduce their children to the world of video games? Jimmy explored this question in his recent feature, A Parent’s List of the Best Intro...
Mar 27, 2023•1 hr 16 min
