State of the Arc Podcast - podcast cover

State of the Arc Podcast

Resonant Arcsoundcloud.com
Our podcast breaks down the techniques of great storytelling across our favorite games, movies, literature, and music. I also occasionally upload music I've arranged or composed!
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Episodes

Of Nobles And Thieves: Dark City Treno | FF9 Analysis

Garnet and Steiner continue their journey from the South Gate all the way to Dark City Treno. Tot, Baku and Marcus are all feature prominently in this one, as well as the beautiful backgrounds and environments. These sequences of the game are masterfully crafted. Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Patreon community if you have the means. Thanks for watching! Time Codes: 1. Intro (0:00) 2. **Listen On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGlfF8kFW3 **Liste...

Jul 16, 20251 hr 14 min

Marshland Munchies: Quina, What ARE You? | FF9 Analysis

Right out the gate we have an exciting podcast for you. Quina, Chocobo's and Moogles, all the things that make Final Fantasy IX great. Meeting Quina's tribe is a blast and making our way through Burmecia was thrilling. We play all the way up to the end of disc 1 for this episode. Next time, we'll get through Treno and into Alexandria. Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Patreon community if you have the means. Thanks for watching! Time Codes: 1. Intro (0:00) 2. Gysahl Pic...

Jul 09, 20251 hr 38 min

Let The Hunt Begin! The Glory of Lindblum | FF9 Analysis

Lindblum is the coolest city in all of Final Fantasy. Not only is the world building perfectly executed here, the facing of the story is perfect as well. It's difficult to imagine how this stretch in Final Fantasy IX could have been done better. From Freya and Regent Cid's introduction, through the Festival of the Hunt and up to Garnet's stunning exit from the city, this entire sequence is a thrilling ride from beginning to end. Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Patreon...

Jul 02, 20251 hr 21 min

So, about that Final Fantasy retrospective series...

Huge thanks to all of our patrons who support us through thick and thin! You make what we do possible! You can support us on Patreon, or Subscribe Star. Thank you!! Now for the big question... what has become of the Final Fantasy retrospective series on this channel? As well as the bigger question, what will become of the Final Fantasy retrospective series? **We’re Now On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGlfF8kFW3 **Listen On Soundcloud**: https://soundcloud.com/resonantarc ...

Jun 30, 202514 min

How Death Stranding Changed Me Forever | My Journey Through Solitude

Death Stranding is one of the most unusual and unique games I've ever played. It flies in the face of conventions and stretches itself out into the real world in some unexpected ways. But, as with most of Hideo Kojima's games, it has a charm that is irresistible. Please consider supporting us on Patreon if you have the means. Thanks for watching! www.patreon.com/resonantarc **We're Now On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGlfF8kFW3 **Listen On Soundcloud**: https://soundcloud...

Jun 25, 202539 min

A Chilling Discovery: Vivi Enters The Void | FF9 Analysis

From the edge of the Petrified Forest to the dramatic entry into Lindblum, this is one of the most exciting stretches of Final Fantasy IX. The most notable moment in this stretch is when Vivi discovers the dark secret beneath Dali. What would you do? What would you think? Would you think at all? Can you think if you are not? If you don't exist? All this and more will be tackled in the next hour and 23 minutes. Enjoy! And don't forget to become a part of our Patreon community if you have the mean...

Jun 23, 20251 hr 23 min

Adventure, Intrigue, and a Stolen Princess | FF9 Analysis (Ep.2)

The way that the intro to this game is framed by a theatrical performance is absolutely brilliant. Once again, Sakaguchi displays his prowess in the drafting of yet another beautiful and captivating introductory sequence that holds our attention and immerses us into a new and exciting world in Final Fantasy IX. We discuss the beginning of this game all the way up until the ship crashes into the Evil Forest. For next week, play up to the arrival into Lindblum. Developers playing the game and comm...

Jun 16, 20251 hr 16 min

How Final Fantasy IX Closed a Golden Age | FF9 Analysis (Ep.1) | Ft. Final Fantasy Union

A big thank you to Flydigi for sponsoring this video! Visit shops.flydigi.com and enter the discount code "resonantarc" for 10% off your order! In today's episode, we're collaborating with Daryll from @FinalFantasyUnion to bring the development history of Final Fantasy IX. This is part 1 of a series where we will break down the story of FF9 chapter by chapter, explaining the thought process of the development team, the storytelling techniques employed, and what it all means at its core. Understa...

Jun 08, 20251 hr 25 min

The Music Of Final Fantasy X w/ Final Fantasy Union ​

Final Fantasy 10 has some of the best music in video games. Nobuo Uematsu was aided by Masashi Hamauzu and Junya Nakano to craft this truly special soundtrack. Much like this podcast was aided by Daryl from Final Fantasy Union! Don't forget to support us on Patreon if you enjoy the content. Thank you! **We're Now On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGlfF8kFW3 **Listen On Soundcloud**: https://soundcloud.com/resonantarc **Listen On iTunes**: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podca...

Jun 02, 20251 hr 36 min

26 Years Later Suikoden II Hits Harder Than Ever

In its opening moments, Suikoden II plunges you into a war-torn world where childhood friendships are shattered and impossible choices must be made. Underscored by Miki Higashino’s masterful soundtrack, it promises a journey filled with heartbreak, betrayal, and a desperate struggle for peace. This isn’t just another retro RPG — it’s a deeply personal tale about the cost of conflict, the bonds that define us, and the tragic paths we walk in the name of power. Suikoden II’s emotional weight and u...

May 25, 202522 min

Kubrick’s Mind-Bending Masterpiece, Explained 2001 A Space Odyssey State of the Arc Podcast

Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey isn’t just a sci-fi classic—it’s a cinematic milestone that changed the language of film. In this video, we break down the film’s mysterious symbolism, groundbreaking visuals, and philosophical questions about evolution, technology, and humanity’s place in the universe. Whether you’re a film buff, a philosophy nerd, or a JRPG fan who spotted the Xenogears influence a mile away, this deep dive is for you!

May 21, 20252 hr 49 min

Suikoden HD Remaster Review | Worth Playing In 2025?

In March, the long-awaited remaster of Suikoden 1 & 2 was released, and Casen and I have decided to dive into these classic games to give our thoughts on the quality of the remaster and reviews of the games themselves. We're covering Suikoden 1 this week, and next week, we'll get into Suikoden 2! Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc Subscribe Star: https://www.subscribestar.com/resonant-arc Twitter: https://twitter.com/resonantarc Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/resonantarc I...

May 19, 202523 min

Dark Gaia | Terranigma Analysis (Finale) | State of the Arc Podcast

Today we reach the end of our playthrough of Terranigma. We hope you've enjoyed this series as much as we've enjoyed talking about it. Thank you for watching and supporting the channel! Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc Subscribe Star: https://www.subscribestar.com/resonant-arc Twitter: https://twitter.com/resonantarc Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/resonantarc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resonantarc TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@resonantarc

May 13, 20252 hr 22 min

The Hidden Meaning Behind Tidus' Cringey Laugh

Tidus laugh has been the subject of intense debate within the Final Fantasy X community. Some love it, others hate it. Clarity on the scene proper has been provided by the directors of the game and also the translators and localizers. However, a new discover is going to overturn the tables and recast the entire scene in a whole new light. Please consider supporting us on Patreon if you have the means. Thanks for watching! The owarai shinji, or laughing ritual: https://youtu.be/oHLoDHtK__A **We'r...

May 12, 202520 min

Expedition 33 Story Discussion | State of the Arc Podcast

Apologies to those expecting a Terranigma episode, but we really wanted to talk more about Expedition 33 this week! This is an extended version of the conversation we had on Monday in our final review about the ending and the central themes of the game. It is possible that we'll do a full series on this game at some point. Let us know if you'd like to see that!

May 07, 202555 min

Expedition 33: Our Final Verdict After 100 Hours

After 100 hours, I can confidently say that Expedition 33 is one of my favorite games. The story is deeply human, the combat is incredibly fun long-term, and the world is absolutely beautiful. In this review, we'll explain how this game puts itself in the lead for one of the best games of 2025.

May 05, 202526 min

Resurrection Of The Genius | Terranigma Analysis (Ep.4) | State of the Arc Podcast

The resurrection of the genius is chapter 3 of Terranigma. Genius can mean several things, and we go with more of the old Greek reading of that word. Chapter 3 is the longest and most fun chapter of the game. Also, a heads up, Casen's jaw was giving him all sorts of trouble so if he's stretching it out a lot, mercilessly tease him in the comments. Leave a comment and support us on Patreon if you enjoy this content. Thank you! **We're Now On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjG...

Apr 30, 20251 hr 42 min

The Incredible History Of Nintendo W/ Acquired | State of the Arc Podcast

David from the Acquired podcast joins us to talk about the fascinating, mysterious and incredible history of Nintendo. From selling concrete, to cards, to toys, and ultimately video game systems, Nintendo has left an intriguing trail behind them. Thanks for watching this episode on the history of Nintendo! Please consider supporting us on Patreon if you have the means. Thanks for watching! **We're Now On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGlfF8kFW3 **Listen On Soundcloud**: ht...

Apr 28, 20251 hr 42 min

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Review | The Best RPG In 20 Years?

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 came out of nowhere and has left us completely stunned. This game has just changed the industry for the better. This review has NO SPOILERS, but tons of footage! As a disclaimer, we have not yet finished it. Mike is around 20 hours in and Casen is around 35 hours in. But wow, this game is absolutely worth playing. Please consider supporting us on Patreon if you have the means. Thanks for watching! **We're Now On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGl...

Apr 23, 202528 min

Death of the Author: Finding Meaning in Art | State of the Arc Podcast

Daniel Santos @DanielSantosAnalysis joins us to discuss 'death of the author', which is a method of engaging with art that does NOT involve any consideration for what the author intended for the work to mean. Though we started out there, we slowly moved into topics like AI, God, Objectivity and whether or not people really are seeing Jesus in their coffee, toast or potato chips. All 3 of us are still trying to feel our way through to finding the best ways to analyze works of art and had a fun ti...

Apr 21, 20251 hr 35 min

Life Is IL-LO-GI-CAL | Terranigma Analysis (Ep.3) | State of the Arc Podcast

The way that life and the world are presented in this game is endlessly charming. We proceed through the resurrection of all of the the animals up to the moment that humans are reborn, which is the end of chapter 2. Leave a comment and support us on Patreon if you enjoy this content. Thank you! **We're Now On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGlfF8kFW3 **Listen On Soundcloud**: https://soundcloud.com/resonantarc **Listen On iTunes**: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stat...

Apr 16, 20252 hr 9 min

Preserving Good Old Games | State of the Arc Podcast

Mike has on Adam and Marcin from Good Old Games to discuss the importance of game preservation. With so many games being made every year, it is easy for consumers and producers to lose sight of how to best preserve the forgotten relics of the past. Please consider supporting us on Patreon if you have the means. Thanks for watching! Good Old Games: www.gog.com **We're Now On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGlfF8kFW3 **Listen On Soundcloud**: https://soundcloud.com/resonantar...

Apr 14, 20251 hr 7 min

The Greatest RPG You Never Played | Terranigma Analysis (Ep.2) | State of the Arc Podcast

This game is beautiful, and the first Chapter, which we cover here, is not one you'll soon forget. Not only that, it's funny and strange in all the best ways. It feels like a taste of that golden age of RPG's, but one that many people missed out on. Play this game now, for your own good. You'll thank me later. Leave a comment and support us on Patreon if you enjoy this content. Thank you! **We're Now On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGlfF8kFW3 **Listen On Soundcloud**: htt...

Apr 09, 20252 hr 15 min

The Switch 2 Is Seriously Impressive | State of the Arc Podcast

We now know everything we wanted to know about the Switch 2! Well, almost everything. Due to pricing questions we are waiting for more information before we include that issue in our discussion. In the mean time, that direct was wonderful and there are some exciting things coming from Nintendo! Thank you for watching and remember to subscribe and join us on Patreon! Time Codes: 1. **We're Now On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGlfF8kFW3 **Listen On Soundcloud**: https://sou...

Apr 07, 202541 min

The Mysterious Development History Of Terranigma (Ep.1) | State of the Arc Podcast

Terranigma is one of the most touching and beautiful games ever made. It is near the top of Mike's list of favorite games ever and Casen is now playing it for the first time. We cover the history of the games development, including why it never came to the America, and what may have happened to the lead developers who seem to have vanished in an enigma themselves. Much mystery surrounds this game, but we're here to unravel the mystery and give this game the proper treatment it deserves. Join us ...

Apr 02, 20251 hr 36 min

A Switch Eulogy: Looking Back | State of the Arc Podcast

The Switch 2 has been announced, thus signaling that the end of the Switch's life is imminent. As we look back on a life well lived, we remember the good times. The games that made us laugh and cry, the experiences that we'll always remember. The Switch may not be long for this world, but it will always live on inside our hearts. May it rest in peace. Much of this video is a reaction to our initial Switch review 8 years ago. You can find that review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-lLtroo...

Mar 31, 20251 hr

Should Final Fantasy DOWNGRADE to AA? | State of the Arc Podcast

Join us and The Night Sky Prince as we discuss the future of Final Fantasy. AAA games have massive budgets and have become risky investments, which is why most studios prefer to play it safe when handling hundreds of millions of dollars to create one game. The downside of this is that players are left with a homogenized product that doesn't look or feel too different from the other games being heavily marketed. How competitive has Final Fantasy been in this strategy? Let us know your thoughts an...

Mar 24, 20251 hr 49 min

The Music of Final Fantasy VIII and IX | State of the Arc Podcast

Final Fantasy 8 and 9 have some of the best music in video games. Nobuo Uematsu put his heart into these scores and it shows. Don't forget to support us on Patreon if you enjoy the content. Thank you! Link to survey: https://forms.gle/oVbHZJWDRsAef5Rp7 Time Codes: 1. Intro (0:00) 2. FF8 (4:16) 3. FF9 (57:50) **We're Now On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGlfF8kFW3 **Listen On Soundcloud**: https://soundcloud.com/resonantarc **Listen On iTunes**: https://podcasts.apple.com/u...

Mar 17, 20251 hr 44 min

The Music of Final Fantasy VII | State of the Arc Podcast

Final Fantasy 7 has one of the best soundtracks in the history of video games. We analyze it to figure out why that is. We got stories, background information and more about this specific game and we lay it all out right here. This was supposed to include all of the PS1 era final fantasy games but it ended up just being about FF7. There might be a few spoilers here so tread carefully if you haven't yet played the game. Don't forget to support us on Patreon if you enjoy the content. Thank you! Ti...

Mar 10, 20251 hr 35 min

The Music of Final Fantasy | SNES Era | State of the Arc Podcast

We now look back on the music of Final Fantasy throughout the SNES era. Nobuo Uematsu levels up and creates some of the most moving and beautiful songs in all video games. We cover Final Fantasy IV, Final Fantasy V and Final Fantasy VI in this video. Don't forget to support us on Patreon if you enjoy the content. Thank you! Time Codes: 1. Intro (0:00) 2. SNES (1:34) 3. Final Fantasy IV (14:48) 4. Final Fantasy V (33:31) 5. Final Fantasy VI (54:52) **We're Now On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.c...

Mar 03, 20251 hr 18 min
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