Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast RPGFan's Random Encounter
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 355 - Dawnwalker and Skywalker | 07 sept. 2026 | 00:53:47 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're talking about two of the biggest games out this fall. First up, The Blood of Dawnwalker is a long-awaited title from a new studio made up of many of the creators behind The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. And while that CD Projekt Red DNA is all over this project, it does a ton of new things that push forward the genre of open-world RPGs. Zek absolutely loved it, thinking that, in many ways, it was even better than The Witcher 3! Then, Bob is here to talk about the new turn-based strategy Star Wars game, Star Wars Zero Company. Heavily inspired by XCOM, Zero Company is set during the Clone Wars, introducing an entirely new cast of characters (while also having some cameos from some old favorites who hate sand). Are XCOM and Star Wars a great combination? Bob certainly seems to think so! Featuring: Jono Logan, Jerry Williams, and Zek Lu; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 354 - Critically Acclaimed MMORPGs Called Final Fantasy XIV | 24 août 2026 | 01:21:10 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we’re talking about the critically acclaimed MMORPG Final Fantasy XIV, with an expanded free trial which you can play through the entirety of A Realm Reborn… Yeah, we’re sure that you’ve heard the marketing meme before, but here at RPGFan, FFXIV is one of the most beloved RPGs of all time (At least, the 2.0 version. 1.0 was a notorious disaster). And now that it has been released on the Switch 2, we figured this was the perfect time to take a deep dive into this critically acclaimed MMORPG (okay, fine, we’ll stop) and see why it is so loved. Mike and Caitlin, two of the most passionate FFXIV players on the site, are here to try to convince Jono to play it. Will they succeed? Featuring: Jono Logan, Caitlin Argyros, and Mike Salbato; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 353 - Under the Sea | 10 août 2026 | 01:30:39 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're taking a figurative deep dive into some DLC and a remake of a classic game! First, Ben is following up on his glowing Pokémon Pokopia review with a look at the game's new DLC, Bubbly Basin. Just like in the base game, you play as a Ditto rebuilding society, but this time you're doing it under the sea! With a wealth of quality-of-life features, a new town, and a ton of new Pokémon, is this DLC worth buying? Then, Hagen is making his first appearance on Random Encounter to chat about a remake of one of his all-time favorites, Gothic 1 Remake. When the original was released in 2001, it became a cult classic that is still loved today. Unlike many remakes, this one is shockingly faithful to the original! Does Hagen love it just as much now as he did way back when? Featuring: Jono Logan, Ben Love, and Hagen McMenemy; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 352 - Legally Distinct Princess of Twilight | 27 juil. 2026 | 01:11:11 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we poke Nintendo's lawyers with a stick. They don't notice. First up, we are exploring the latest entry in a long-running series of RPG-esque board games, Culdcept Begins! This soft reboot of the series features a new graphical style and streamlined gameplay. But does its Monopoly-meets-Magic: The Gathering-style gameplay hit the board game nostalgic spot for Ben? Then, Aleks is here to chat about Dusklight, a native PC port of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. Obviously, this was not published by Nintendo, but as usual, fans do what Nintendon't. How are they getting away with it? It is just a launcher. You need your own original game discs in order to play the game! If you loved Twilight Princess on the GameCube or Wii and it's been years since you've gotten a chance to play it, give this incredible fan achievement a shot!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Aleks Franiczek, and Ben Love; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 351 - I Don't Know Much About Sword Art Online, But I Know What I Like | 13 juil. 2026 | 01:04:38 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're chatting about new DLC for a game that spent over a decade in development, and another title that feels like it should have been released a decade ago. First up, Audra is here to chat about Endless Ragnarok, the new DLC for the action RPG Granblue Fantasy: Relink. The base game was our "returning champion" on our most anticipated list from 2020 through 2024, and was warmly received upon release. This new expansion adds a wealth of content and gameplay that might just reignite interest in the title. Next, Zek joins us to discuss Echoes of Aincrad, a new entry in the long-running Sword Art Online series. Based on the anime, this standalone title clearly hopes to recapture the feeling of the earliest games in the series by allowing you to create a brand-new character and introducing a fresh supporting cast. The problem is that the game feels like a subpar relic of an older RPG generation. Even as a PS3-era release, it would still fall short. Is there anything here to redeem it?
Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, and Zek Lu; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 350 - The Adventures of Deltarune | 29 juin 2026 | 00:54:18 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we have a new chapter of a beloved game and a new release from a beloved studio! First up, Aleks is here to chat about the newly released fifth chapter of Deltarune. It sounds like we are going to be getting seven of them, so they are very much in the home stretch now! In this chapter, we see an excellent example of how Toby Fox has fun with video game genres as he tosses an entire side-scrolling action RPG in there! Does the fifth chapter of this apparent Undertale spin-off set things up for an exciting conclusion in a few years? And then, Paul is here with the latest from Team Asano, The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales. The first action RPG from the HD-2D studio, it can't help but bring some Legend of Zelda comparisons with its primary-coloured hero and his fairy friend. But The Adventures of Elliot brings something to the table that The Legend of Zelda doesn't: time travel (well, I mean, if you completely ignore Ocarina of Time. And Majora's Mask. And Oracle of Ages. And...). Could Square Enix have a new hit franchise on its hands?
Featuring: Jono Logan, Aleks Franiczek, and Paul Skevington; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 349 - Not-E3 2026 Extravaganza! | 15 juin 2026 | 02:26:04 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, the 2026 Summer Game Fest season is officially upon us! For video game fans, mid-June is still basically early Christmas. Even though E3 is firmly in the history books, the nonstop gaming announcements haven't slowed down and, this year, there are a lot of presents under the tree for RPG fans! Our panel has been working overtime keeping up with all the major digital events, so it's time to break down our absolute favourite games from across the summer showcases including Final Fantasy VII Revelation, Persona 6, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake!
Water photo in graphic sourced from Marissa Rodriguez on Unsplash.
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 348 - Mina the Barista | 01 juin 2026 | 01:07:12 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're digging for some sweet, sweet caffeine! First up, Bob is here to chat about Yacht Club Games' newest title, Mina the Hollower. Yacht Club struck gold a decade ago with their retro side-scroller Shovel Knight and its various campaigns, but since then, they've apparently been on the bubble financially. Well, that doesn't seem to be a problem anymore because Mina the Hollower appears to be a hit! This top-down, Link's Awakening-esque and Castlevania-esque soulslike currently has everyone talking, and Bob and Jono certainly can't stop chatting about it! Spoiler alert: it's absolutely fantastic! Next, Audra and Mike are here for a steaming cup of Coffee Talk Tokyo. As the third entry in this lo-fi, relaxing visual novel series, the game moves its setting from rainy Seattle to neon Tokyo. Does the charm of Coffee Talk successfully make the jump across the Pacific? Oh, and we also chat about our hopes for next week's Not-E3 (and be sure to stay tuned for our 2026 Not-E3 Extravaganza episode)!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, Mike Salbato, and Jerry Williams; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 347 - Darkness and Retro Light | 11 mai 2026 | 01:09:23 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's all about the aliens! First up, Directive 8020. The latest game in Supermassive Games' The Dark Pictures Anthology series, 8020 brings choice-based horror movie vibes into space. Pulling from the classic horror sci-fi films The Thing and Alien, did this interactive space adventure have Paul hiding behind the couch? Then, Radical Fish Games, the maker of the retro darling CrossCode, is back with the first taste of its latest retro-looking adventure, Alabaster Dawn. Featuring stunning 2.5D pixel-art visuals, bullet-hell-inspired combat, and compelling characters, all set in a world that appears to have been invaded by aliens, Alabaster Dawn has already impressed the heck out of Bob, and it is only in early access! Is it worth picking up, even if the game is still in development?
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 346 - Will the PS5 Rescue Starfield? | 27 avr. 2026 | 01:11:23 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're talking all about two older games that have recently been revitalized with new gameplay! First up, Starfield. When it was released in 2023, it was divisive, to put it mildly. Some said it was one of the best games ever, some said it was the worst game ever, but most greeted it with a disappointed "meh." Now, Bethesda has finally released the game on PS5, along with its last expansion: the story DLC Terran Armada and the space flight gameplay revamp, Free Lanes. So, does Zek think this DLC improves the game, or is the game just as buggy as ever? Then, one of the greatest CRPGs of all time, Pillars of Eternity, has been given a brand-new gameplay mode: turn-based combat! Originally released with real-time-with-pause combat, the addition of turn-based combat brings the game back to the very roots of its genre. Mark is a massive fan of the classic turn-based games that inspired Pillars of Eternity, such as Baldur's Gate, so what does he make of this unexpected addition to this brilliant RPG?
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 345 - PAX East 2026 Roundup! | 13 avr. 2026 | 01:29:49 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're talking all about some of the RPGs and adventure games found at this year's PAX East! Originally known as the Penny Arcade Expo, both PAX East and West have become long-running institutions in the video game industry. This year, our fearless editor-in-chief braved the masses and delivered a ton of articles about the event! And we have him right here on Random to chat about some of the most interesting indie games that will be coming to us in 2026 and 2027! Want to find the best of the show? Listen on (or read the articles at RPGFan.com)!
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 344 - Life is Strange: Carmageddon | 30 mars 2026 | 01:20:09 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we talk about cars ramming one another and time travel. And no, for once, this isn't a Back to the Future reference (although it could be)! First up is Matt chatting about the big grand finale of the Life is Strange franchise, Life Is Strange: Reunion (although we're sure there will be another one coming out in a few years). After the disappointment of the previous game in the series, Life is Strange: Double Exposure, fan anxiety went through the roof when it was announced the next game would be the long-awaited reunion between Chloe and Max. Does this reunion deliver? And then Jerry is here to talk about the noir-soaked decopunk atmosphere of the new strategy RPG, Aether & Iron. It's time to explore a massive, floating version of 1930s New York as you save a dame, throw back a drink, and hit the road in strategic car combat! For the first game from the developer Seismic Squirrel, Aether & Iron absolutely punches above its weight!
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 343 - Pokémon vs. The World | 16 mars 2026 | 01:08:52 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, it’s the end of the world as we know it, and Ditto feels fine! First up, Ben is here to chat about the latest Pokémon spin-off, Pokémon Pokopia. Man is dead, and the Pokémon rule. We don’t think that anyone expected that we’d get a post-apocalyptic Pokémon game, but it turns out that it may have been the delightful life sim we were all waiting for! Ben certainly enjoyed it! And then Matt is here to take us to the mysterious land of Toronto, Canada, in 20XX with Scott Pilgrim EX. The sequel to the beloved 2010 beat-em-up, Scott Pilgrim Vs. the World: The Game, EX brings us back to the classic video-game coded world of Scott Pilgrim and Toronto, along with the amazing chiptunes of Anamanaguchi. Mixing RPG mechanics and progression with classic beat-em-up gameplay, Scott Pilgrim EX looks to stand alongside its PS3-era predecessor. Does it live up to those high expectations?
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 342 - Adventure Islands! | 02 mars 2026 | 01:22:14 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, we're talking about two new games that both take place on very different islands! First, Bob is here to chat about the standalone sequel to 2023's Paranormasight: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo, Paranormasight: The Mermaid's Curse. This visual novel brilliantly mixes real-world history with folklore to create a compelling tale with a tinge of 80s nostalgia (and a CRT filter throughout)! Did Bob enjoy it as much as he enjoyed the original? Next, Ben is here to talk about a new indie 2D Zelda-like, Under the Island. This adorable game pulls a lot from A Link to the Past and Link's Awakening while doing its own thing with a modern island setting and a hockey stick as your primary weapon (this Canadian approves). Does Ben feel like it lived up to its inspirations, or does it fall a bit short? Finally, Jono beat Hollow Knight: Silksong, which we don't cover, but it is Silksong and he REALLY wanted to talk about it, so… Featuring: Jono Logan, Ben Love, and Jerry Williams; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 341 - Proud RPGFans | 16 févr. 2026 | 01:13:09 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, we're talking about two "old" games (though one is significantly older than the other)! First up, Audra is here to share her thoughts on Ys X: Proud Nordics. But wait, didn't Ys X: Nordics just release in 2024? Yes, it did! But now, an even more complete version is here! Is it worth the upgrade if you bought the original? And if you are a Ys fan who hasn't played it yet, which one should you get? Next, Patrick is here to chat about a brand-new Game Boy Color game, Infinity! But wait, didn't Nintendo stop releasing Game Boy Color games in 2003? Yes, they did! However, back in 2001, this highly anticipated tactical JRPG was cancelled by its developer because of disinterest in the old console. Thankfully, an unfinished version of the game was found in 2016, making the ROM available to everyone. And now, Incube8 Games has finally finished developing the title and has released it in the form of an actual GBC cartridge! Is Infinity a brand-new classic of yesteryear, or should it have been left in the past? Finally, Jono shares his thoughts about the Yakuza 3 remake, Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties, and those thoughts are... not good. Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, and Patrick Gann; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 340 - Cause and Effect | 02 févr. 2026 | 00:52:34 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, it's all about games featuring cause and effect! First up, Audra is here to chat with us about the time-travelling, Souls-like sequel to 2019's Code Vein: Code Vein II. Though it can occasionally feel like being trapped in a time loop while playing against a Souls-like boss, here the time travel is very literal as you travel back to the past to change the present. Audra has had some mixed opinions on it, so is it worth the time for Souls-like fans? And then Hilary is here to explore inkle’s newest game, TR-49. From Overboard! to 80 Days, No two inkle games are alike, and that's certainly the case here. In this narrative deduction game/audio play, you delve through the files of a World War II-era computer to find a book that could save the UK from all-out war. inkle’s incredibly detailed writing is fully on display here, but do the gameplay and presentation live up to the narrative?
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 339 - 2025 Year in Review | 19 janv. 2026 | 02:08:01 | |
In our first Random Encounter of 2026, we're taking a look back at 2025! While many would describe 2025 as a mixed bag (at best), there is no disputing that it was a banner year for video games. Not only did we finally get two of the most anticipated sequels of all time in Hollow Knight: Silksong and Hades II, but also brand-new original games like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Blue Prince, and Avowed. And that isn't even mentioning the several remakes and remasters of classics like the Lunar Remastered Collection, Suikoden I & II HD Remaster, and Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles. So, join the panel as we reminisce about the best games we experienced in 2025! Featuring: Zach Wilkerson, Aleks Franiczek, Audra Bowling, Matt Wardell and Paul Skevington; Edited by Jono Logan Get in Touch: This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 338 - RPGFan’s Most Anticipated Games of 2026 | 29 déc. 2025 | 01:47:16 | |
In our final Random Encounter of 2025, it's time to take a look ahead to the biggest games of 2026! With the holidays in the rear view mirror, RPGFan is now building our annual most anticipated for the coming year feature. And there is no better way to wrap up 2025 than having the Random panel give everyone a preview of those titles we’re looking forward to as we wait for the calendar to turn. From Dragon Quest VII Reimagined to Mina the Hollower, it’s time to spread the spirit of the season by sharing our excitement for what 2026 has in store! Featuring: Jono Logan, Noah Leiter, Paul Skevington, and Zek Lu; Edited by Jono Logan Get in Touch: This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 337 - Merry Game Awards 2025! | 15 déc. 2025 | 01:33:45 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, we're chatting about gaming's biggest night: The Game Awards 2025! But before we get to all the reveals (and actual awards, I guess), we want to talk to Zek about the new Octopath Traveler game that was just released, Octopath Traveler 0! This entry, adapted from the mobile-only gacha game Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent, turns a lot of the conventions of Octopath on their heads, featuring over 30 characters instead of eight and including a massive town-building mechanic. After that, it's all about The Game Awards! There were some big announcements this year, including a long-awaited sequel to Knights of the Old Republic, Star Wars: Fate of the Old Republic. We also have Larian Studios revealing their follow-up to Baldur's Gate III, Divinity, with one of the more disturbing trailers in recent memory. There is so much news, but our panel is ready to chat about it all (and Jono is ready to talk about how Blue Prince was robbed)! Featuring: Jono Logan, Hilary Andreff, Mike Salbato, and Zek Lu; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 336 - Farewell, My Beloved Superheroes | 01 déc. 2025 | 00:58:00 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, we're taking a look at two very different narrative adventures! Back in the 2010s, Telltale Games reinvented the point-and-click adventure game with The Walking Dead, introducing new multiple paths and lasting choices. Unfortunately, they spread themselves a little too thin, and the studio closed. Thankfully, many of those developers went off to create their own studios, and that is how we got Dispatch, the new episodic superhero adventure game! Tom has played the entire season and can confidently say that it reaches, and maybe even exceeds, the heights of Telltale's output at its prime. Then, Audra is here with an indie narrative visual novel inspired by Nintendo DS Japanese adventure games like Ace Attorney and Hotel Dusk: Detective Instinct: Farewell, My Beloved. This looks to be a classic case of, "Well, if the developer won't make any more of the games we like, we're going to do it ourselves!" In this detective game, you and your investigative partner explore crime scenes and interrogate witnesses to uncover the perpetrators of a shocking murder (maybe, you'll have to follow the clues to find out)
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 335 - To the "Manor" Born | 17 nov. 2025 | 01:12:05 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, it's time to uncover some mysteries in two adventure games! And then we have a remaster of a classic early-2000s point-and-click adventure game, Syberia - Remastered. Known for its immaculate vibes and engaging story, the original Syberia has become a cult favourite among adventure game fans (at least for those who can forgive the less-than-sensitive portrayal of a mentally challenged character). Syberia - Remastered brings the same art style, story, music, voice work, and 720p pre-rendered cutscenes, but introduces a new control interface and re-imagines the entire world space in 3D. Does the remaster/remake live up to the original?
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 334 - Swing and a Hit, Swing and a Miss | 03 nov. 2025 | 01:11:27 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, we are looking at sequels both past and present! First up, Zach is here with his thoughts about the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake. While DQ I could have done with a few fewer "enhancements," it sounds like the new expanded story and features have made DQ II into one of the best Dragon Quest games ever! And next, Zek is here to share his disappointment about the highly anticipated sequel to 2019's The Outer Worlds: The Outer Worlds 2. While it does have a bigger budget and scope, it sounds like it failed to capitalize on the potential of the first game. And in the world of The Outer Worlds, failing to monopolize is a capital offence! Oh, and a quick note to all of our Canadian listeners: We recorded this on Wednesday evening, long before Game 7 of the World Series, so please forgive my bright-eyed optimism and will to live, and take them with the spirit intended at the time!
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 333 - Gotta Beat 'Em All! | 20 oct. 2025 | 01:15:40 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, we are catching 'em all and beating 'em up! When Pokémon Legends: Arceus was released in 2022, it signalled a newer, more experimental type of Pokémon game. Now, Game Freak is back with Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the second entry in the Legends series. With a new real-time combat system, an urban environment, and giant Pokémon battles, Z-A looks like it promises everything that fans have wanted from the series, but does it pull it off? Niki has some thoughts! And then, Bob is here to chat about the new roguelike beat-'em-up RPG Absolum. It's been a long time since there was any real innovation in the beat-'em-up genre, but with a stunning animated art style, exploration, RPG mechanics, and a roguelike structure, Absolum might just be the most interesting beat-'em-up in years. Is it worth the fight?
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 332 - Tactical Fantasies | 06 oct. 2025 | 00:55:52 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, we have a remaster of one of the greatest strategy RPGs of all time! When Final Fantasy Tactics was released on the PSX in 1997, it marked the entry point for countless RPG fans into the world of SRPGs (aka TRPGs) By piggybacking off the success of the landmark JRPG Final Fantasy VII, Tactics introduced an entirely new audience to the grid-based strategy RPG goodness seen in previous SRPGs like Fire Emblem and Shining Force. Since then, Tactics has seen numerous re-releases, including Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions for the PSP and mobile devices that gave the game a much-improved localization. But now with Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, Square-Enix has released what is arguably the definitive version, now with sharper graphics, excellent quality-of-life features, and exceptional voice acting. Tactics also happens to be one of the favourite games of Jerry and Zach. Does this brand-new remaster live up to their high expectations? Featuring: Jono Logan, Jerry Williams, and Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 331 - Silksong Will Be Released When Hades Freezes Over! | 29 sept. 2025 | 00:57:08 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, we're chatting about one of the biggest indie releases of the year! Boy, between Silksong and Hades II, September has been quite a month for indie games. Everyone here at RPGFan has been eagerly awaiting the full release of Hades II since its early release last year, and our patience has finally been rewarded! Zek and Matt are here to answer all of the big questions like: Is this highly anticipated sequel as good as the original Hades? What new gameplay mechanics has Supergiant Games brought to the table? And perhaps most importantly, who can you date? Featuring: Jono Logan, Matt Wardell, and Zek Lu; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 330 - Random Book Club - 50 Indie Games that Changed the World | 08 sept. 2025 | 01:24:13 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're doing a Random Book Club for the brand-new tome from Bitmap Books: 50 Indie Games that Changed the World. Over the last 20 years, the indie game scene has become just as important as the AAA industry, with games like Silksong showing sales numbers that many big devs would kill for! There are so many brilliant indies out there, such as Return of the Obra Dinn, Coffee Talk, and Hades, but which ones had the biggest impact on both the video game industry and the world? 50 Indie Games that Changed the World aims to answer that very question! Do Jono, Hilary, and Mike agree with all of its choices? Probably not, but that's the joy of chatting about lists on the internet! Featuring: Jono Logan, Hilary Andreff, Mike Salbato; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 329 - Come to the RPGFan Bazaar! | 25 août 2025 | 01:02:58 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, let's head to the bazaar and see what the RPGFan stall has in stock! First up, Niki is here to chat about Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar. Harvest Moon DS: Grand Bazaar was a beloved entry in this long-running series on the Nintendo DS. Does this remake (with some updated branding) live up to the memories of the original? Then, Neal is here to share his thoughts about Quartet, a new retro-style JRPG from the developer of Shadows of Adam. While it looks like a pretty standard SNES JRPG on the surface, it is the mature storytelling and more modern mechanics that set it apart. If you miss the days of the SNES, this might be an RPG you'll want to check out! And finally, the entire panel shares what they are most excited about that was announced at Gamescom 2025! Featuring: Jono Logan, Neal Chandran, and Niki Fakhoori; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 328 - The Phantom X Menace | 11 août 2025 | 00:59:30 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, we're discussing a mobile-based gacha spinoff of a beloved JRPG and a Wii U classic that has finally made its way to a modern console! Persona 5 has more than its share of spinoffs, including Persona 5 Royal, Persona 5 Strikers, Persona 5: Dancing in Starlight, and Persona 5 Tactica, and now there is a new game to add to the list: Persona 5: The Phantom X. This mobile and PC game is a full-fledged JRPG, but one with dozens of gacha mechanics in the way of a smooth gameplay experience. Was Audra able to get over these revenue traps to enjoy the solid game beneath? And then Ben is here to talk about the first 100 in RPGFan history: Xenoblade Chronicles X! This classic JRPG was released on the Wii U, where no one really played it (but to be fair, no one really played the Wii U either). But now it's available on the Nintendo Switch, so no one has an excuse not to play this spectacular early entry in the long-running, beloved Xenoblade series! Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, and Ben Love; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 327 - My Kingdom for a Horse (Girl Game) | 21 juil. 2025 | 01:15:08 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, we're playing an updated classic, a spin-off of a modern classic, and talking about the weirdest game I have heard of in a long time! First up, Mark is taking off his nostalgia goggles to give the recent remaster of the CRPG classic Neverwinter Nights 2 an updated look! Neverwinter Nights 2: Enhanced Edition follows many other enhanced editions of classic CRPGs like Baldur's Gate and Icewind Dale. Does this new version live up to his fond memories of the original? Then, Sean is here to chat about the newest entry in the AI: The Somnium Files series, No Sleep For Kaname Date – From AI: The Somnium Files. Does it live up to his expectations of the series so far, or did it lull him to sleep unlike poor Kaname Date? Oh, and then we talk about an insane horse-girl-gacha game for a while because I honestly can't believe this thing exists!
Featuring: Jono Logan, Mark Roddison, and Sean Cabot; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 326 - Back to Business as Usual | 30 juin 2025 | 00:58:19 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, we're back to business as usual! Not-E3 and the release of the Switch 2 hit us like a hammer. But now that things have finally settled down, it's time to chat about some games! First up, Aleks gets a chance to talk up the long-awaited Chapters 3+4 of Toby Fox's follow-up to Undertale, Deltarune! Chapters 1+2 released in 2018 and 2021 respectively, so for folks out there starved for Fox's trademark meta-narratives and ear-delighting music, these new chapters are a balm to the SOUL. Then, Zek is here to talk about the new remaster of the PS2-era Atlus action RPG, Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner – Raidou Kuzunoha vs. the Soulless Army, now titled RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army! Now with improved graphics, a revamped combat system, and a slightly shorter title, will fans of Atlus' modern output like Persona 5 and Metaphor: ReFantazio find anything to love in this film-noir, detective-styled world?
Featuring: Jono Logan, Aleks Franiczek, and Zek Lu; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 325 - Time for a Switch 2! | 16 juin 2025 | 01:09:09 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, we've finally recovered from Not-E3, so now it's time to talk about the Switch 2! Nintendo's long-awaited follow-up to the Switch has finally released and, surprise, it's still the Switch! The Nintendo Switch 2 is burning up the sales charts and already consuming countless hours of folks' time. That said, there has been some controversy, including limited launch titles, 'digital' physical game cards, and major battery issues. Tune in as Jono chats with Tom and Paul about their experiences with the Switch 2 thus far and where they hope the console will go in the future!
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 324 - Not-E3 2025 Extravaganza! | 09 juin 2025 | 02:00:24 | |
On this week's Random Encounter, the Summer Game Fest (AKA Not-E3) season is officially upon us! For video game fans, this period is like early Christmas. With nonstop gaming announcements, there is something for everyone! This week, our panel has been working hard keeping up with all the major events, so it's time to share our favourite games from across the showcases!
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 323 - Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Spoilercast | 26 mai 2025 | 02:15:54 | |
On this week’s episode of Random Encounter, we’re doing a deep dive into the game everyone is talking about: Sandfall Interactive's Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. In this lengthy, full-blown spoilercast, we chat about the beautiful music, the combat, the story, and argue about who loves Esquie the most. Does the panel adore the game as much as the host? Listen in to find out! Featuring: Zach Wilkerson, Aleks Franiczek, Zek Lu, Tin Manuel, and Matt Wardell, and Zek Lu; Edited by Zach Wilkerson
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 322 - Clairly Oblivious | 05 mai 2025 | 01:05:00 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're looking at a stylish upcoming turn-based RPG and a remaster of a sprawling open-world classic! First, Zek is here to discuss Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a game that might end up being his favorite JRPG of this generation. This stylish title is capturing attention with an incredible voice cast and fresh take on turn-based combat. Why does Zek think it lives up to this universal acclaim? And then, Matt revisits a childhood favorite filled with nostalgia: The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered. It boasts some excellent quality-of-life changes and a fresh coat of paint while still keeping the wonderful "jank" of the original. Will this remaster live up to Matt's cherished memories of the original? Featuring: Jono Logan, Matt Wardell, and Zek Lu; Edited by Jono Logan Get in Touch: This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 321 - Lunar Eternal Blue Prince | 21 avr. 2025 | 00:59:56 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're looking at a new classic puzzle-adventure game and a packaged duo of some of the best RPGs ever released on the PSX! First, Gio and Tin are here to give us a walk-through tour of Blue Prince, the hit rogue-lite puzzle adventurer. This game came out of nowhere for a lot of folks, trapping them inside the shifting rooms of this puzzling mansion. Does it live up to its inspirations like Outer Wilds and Riven? And then, Zach is here to chat about a series very near and dear to us here at RPGFan: Lunar! The Lunar Remastered Collection is finally out, packaging Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete and Lunar: Eternal Blue Complete in one package! Zach has played through both games many times, but did the new quality-of-life features enhance his experience?
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 320 - Let's Switch (2) It Up | 07 avr. 2025 | 00:55:37 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we chat about everything that happened last week and, BOY, did a lot happen last week! First up, Dom is here to talk about the recent sci-fi Souls-like AI LIMIT. Does it live up to its inspirations, or does it fall just as flat as AI does in the real world? Then, Zach joins the panel to chat about the Switch 2 Direct! In many ways, the full reveal was everything we hoped for, but there could be some warning signs for this new console as we move further into 2025. Tariffs, presales, and bear (markets), oh my.
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 319 - I'd Kill for a Good Cup of Tea! | 24 mars 2025 | 01:07:12 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's time to sink into the shadows and brew some tea, because we're talking about Assassin's Creed Shadows and Wanderstop! Assassin's Creed Shadows is finally here! This long-awaited game has been delayed multiple times over the last year, but was that extra time well spent? Tom is here to tell us his thoughts about the latest entry in the long-running series! Tom also recently played the latest game from The Stanley Parable's Davey Wreden, Wanderstop. What appears to be a simple cozy game on the surface is actually a deep and thoughtful meditation on how to recover from burnout (something I think many of us can relate to, given the last few years). Will it appeal to both fans of the genre and those who are looking for a more narrative-based experience? And finally, Jono gets to chat about an amazing new visual novel from the geniuses at inkle, Expelled! An Overboard! Game. This follow-up to 2021's Overboard! might be the perfect sequel, delivering everything that made the original great while also advancing the gameplay and world. If you're a fan of deductive games or visual novels, it is a must-play!
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 318 - Monster Hunting the Most Elusive Game: A New Suikoden | 10 mars 2025 | 00:56:29 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's time to chat about a remaster and a new game in two long-running series! First up, Zach's prayers have been answered: Suikoden I&II HD Remaster: Gate Rune & Dunan Unification Wars is finally out! This remaster of the first two Suikoden games has been highly anticipated for years by fans of the series, but does it live up to their hopes? Then, Zek chats about the excellent (though slightly light on content) new entry in the Monster Hunter franchise: Monster Hunter: Wilds. The series has become more and more popular in the West with every entry. Will this new game make a similar impression on the fanbase? Finally, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a game that came out of nowhere in 2024, is nearing release in April. Zek played through the demo, and it sounds like it might just live up to, or even exceed, RPG fans' expectations!
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 317 - Pirate Watcher in Eora | 24 févr. 2025 | 01:23:44 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're talking about two of the most highly anticipated games of 2025! We've been eagerly awaiting Obsidian's answer to Skyrim for years, and Avowed is finally here. A spin-off of the beloved CRPG Pillars of Eternity series, Avowed replaces the isometric view and strategic "real-time-with-pause" combat with an FPS perspective. Jerry is a massive Pillars fan, so does he think Avowed does Skyrim better than Skyrim? Then, Jono is here to chat about the latest Like a Dragon game, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. For the first time since the Yakuza Kiwami 2 DLC, we get to play as the Mad Dog of Shimano himself, Goro Majima. Or should we say Sea Dog, as Majima has taken up a new profession as a pirate captain. Pirate Yakuza looks wild, but does it deliver all the high-seas hijinks it promises? Featuring: Jono Logan and Jerry Williams; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 316 - Canadian Encounter | 19 févr. 2025 | 01:31:27 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're celebrating all things Canadian! For absolutely no reason (certainly not related to any current events in February 2024), Jono has gathered a few of his fellow Canucks at RPGFan to chat about some of their favourite Canadian games. The thing about games from up north is, much like Canadians themselves, you might not realize they are Canadian at first glance. But don't worry because our panel is here to let you in on our maple-scented secrets. Steph is ready to virtually chat about 1000xResist, a 2024 GOTY contender from Vancouver-based developer Sunset Visitor. Matt is sailing the dead seas with Spiritfarer from Montreal-based developer Thunder Lotus Games. Jono is solving the mystery of The Crimson Diamond, created by Toronto-based solo dev Julia Minamata. And Aleks is storming the cottage of Toronto-based developer Black Tabby Games to Slay the Princess! And that's just the beginning! Featuring: Jono Logan, Aleks Franiczek, Matt Wardell, and Stephanie Sybydlo; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 315 - Sleepless in Ephinea | 03 févr. 2025 | 01:15:46 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, it’s a double dose of sci-fi and fantasy! First, Aleks joins us to talk about Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector, a sci-fi RPG with a strong tabletop influence. As a sequel to 2022’s Citizen Sleeper, Starward Vector expands its universe with multiple settings and companions. If you love tabletop RPGs, then this could be the sleeper hit of 2025! Next, Paul dives into Tales of Graces f Remastered, experiencing a classic Tales game for the first time. Bandai Namco has been on a roll with Tales re-releases, and this remaster brings Tales of Graces, originally a 2009 Japan-only Wii game (and later a 2012 English PS3 release), back with updated visuals and quality-of-life improvements. With one of the best combat systems in the series, is it worth revisiting? And finally, the panel discusses Sony’s failed foray into live-service gaming. With major cancellations making headlines, what went wrong (I'll give you a hint: The answer rhymes with Portnite)? Featuring: Jono Logan, Aleks Franiczek, and Paul Skevington; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 314 - The Switch 2 is Real (and Other Stories) | 20 janv. 2025 | 01:09:23 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, Jono is back to chat with the panel about two recent big January releases! First up, Wes has managed to fight through hundreds upon hundreds of foes to deliver their verdict on Dynasty Warriors: Origins! This latest entry in the long-running series dramatically cuts back on playable characters and weapons to provide a much more streamlined action-RPG experience. But did Origins manage to land a successful combo on Wes? Next, Abe shares his thoughts on Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana. This remaster of 2005’s PSP title Ys: The Oath in Felghana, itself a remake of 1989’s Famicom classic Ys III: Wanderers from Ys, brings the series back into the spotlight. Does it feel like a relic of the past, or does it shine as brightly as it did in the PSP’s glory days? Finally, the entire panel weighs in on the Switch 2 announcement trailer and shares their hopes for Nintendo’s new console in 2025! Featuring: Jono Logan, Abraham Kobylanski, and Wes Iliff; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 313 - Jono-Less Encounter | 06 janv. 2025 | 00:57:37 | |
On this first episode of Random Encounter for 2025, Jono is missing, and it's up to the panel to find him! Just kidding; we aren't a semi-educational game from the 1990s. Jono has bronchitis this week, so it's up to the brand-new full-time host of Retro Encounter, Zach Wilkerson, to fill in for him! Joining Zach is Neal, who is chatting about the recent remake of one of the first RPG indie hits ever: Breath of Death VII: The Beginning: Reanimated. Released on Xbox Live Arcade back in 2011, Zeboyd Games' original Breath of Death VII delivered a fun, retro-style JRPG with nostalgic 8-bit graphics. This remake updates the visuals to stunning 16-bit while also delivering a brand-new soundtrack from HyperDuck SoundWorks! Does this remake live up to the original? Audra is also joining the panel to chat about the Ace Attorney-inspired adventure Paper Perjury. With delightfully pixelated graphics and compelling mysteries galore, did Paper Perjury have Audra standing up, pointing her finger, and screaming "Objection?" Featuring: Zach Wilkerson, Audra Bowling, and Neal Chandran; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 312 - RPGFan’s Most Anticipated Games of 2025 | 23 déc. 2024 | 01:50:44 | |
In our final Random Encounter of 2024, we’re diving into the games we’re most excited to play in 2025! Every December, RPGFan unveils one of our biggest features: a list of the most anticipated games for the year ahead. What better way to close out 2024 than by joining our panel on Random Encounter to celebrate the titles we’re excited for as we count down to the new year? From Avowed to the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, it's time to spread the spirit of the season by sharing our excitement for what 2025 has in store! Featuring: Jono Logan, Aleks Franiczek, Kyle Cantelon, Wes Iliff, and Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Jono Logan Get in Touch: This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 311 - Merry Game Awards 2024! | 16 déc. 2024 | 01:22:01 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're chatting about gaming's biggest night: The Game Awards 2024! After a few rocky years, The Game Awards have finally hit their stride for their 10th anniversary. There were some astonishing reveals, wonderful tributes, and a surprising amount of empathy for those struggling in today's gaming industry. With announcements ranging from the epic (The Witcher IV) to the epically unexpected (Elden Ring Nightreign) this show had it all. All in all, it was a pretty fun three-plus hours! With so much to talk about, we've assembled a panel ready to dive into the details of the show and chat about all the games that have us excited for 2025 and beyond! Featuring: Jono Logan, Claton Stevenson, Gio Castillo, and Tin Manuel; Edited by Jono Logan Get in Touch: This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 310 - Preview Week with Avowed & Path of Exile 2! | 25 nov. 2024 | 01:08:15 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we're chatting about previews of two games we're excited for in 2025! First up is a hands-on preview of Obsidian's newest first-person RPG, Avowed. A spin-off from the beloved Pillars of Eternity series, Avowed is being presented as Obsidian's answer to Skyrim. That said, it has an identity all its own, avoiding the full-on open world for a series of expansive zones, similar to their previous RPG, The Outer Worlds. Mark got a chance to play through some of the early game, and he is excited to share his impressions! Next, we sent Zek all the way down to LA for a hands-on preview of Path of Exile 2, the sequel to the long-running, free-to-play action RPG, Path of Exile. What started as a Diablo-clone has evolved into a game with a massive community of fans who support the game through cosmetics and other ethical in-app purchases. Does this sequel live up to the standard set by the original, or did they literally sell out? Zek thinks it's the latter, and we hope so too! Featuring: Jono Logan, Mark Roddison, and Zek Lu; Edited by Jono Logan Get in Touch: This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 309 - New Horizons with the Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake! | 15 nov. 2024 | 01:19:15 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we are chatting about a long-awaited remake and an unexpected spin-off! First, Zach is here to share his experience with the Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake. This ground-up remake of the beloved Famicom/NES JRPG has been a long time coming, first announced in 2021. With updated graphics, mechanics, storyline, and scope, this second coming of DQIII (or given prior remakes, third coming? Maybe fourth? No, fifth!) might be the perfect jumping-on point for folks interested in the iconic, long-running series! Then, Caitlin joins us to discuss one of the most unexpected spin-offs in years: LEGO Horizon Adventures. Essentially a lighthearted remake of the first game in the Horizon series, Horizon Zero Dawn, LEGO Horizon takes everything we love about this beautiful post-apocalyptic world and translates it into LEGO. That means stunning Lego recreations of many machine beasts, including Watchers, Thunderjaws, and Tallnecks! Does this LEGO spin-off capture what makes the Horizon series so special? And finally, hey, we chat about politics for a while because this is the world we live in. Featuring: Jono Logan, Caitlin Argyros, and Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Jono Logan Get in Touch: This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 308 - The SaGa of Dragon Age | 28 oct. 2024 | 01:12:54 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, we have another two GOTY contenders for you! First up is Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the first new Dragon Age in a decade ! After BioWare's last two flops, they desperately needed a win, and it certainly sounds like they got one with this new installment of the long-running and beloved series! Audra is here to share all of her thoughts on how Dragon Age has evolved since Dragon Age: Inquisition back in 2014! And then Ben is here to torture Jono by chatting about Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven! A remake of Super Famicom's Romancing Saga 2 from back in 1993, Revenge of the Seven lovingly reimagines the epic storyline set over hundreds of years and dozens of generations of heroes. Don't let Jono's grumbling about the series put you off because this might be a dark horse favorite for GOTY! Featuring: Jono Logan, Audra Bowling, and Ben Love; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 307 - Social Links to the Past | 14 oct. 2024 | 01:10:45 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, two first-timers are joining us to chat about two of the year's biggest games! First up, Zek is joined by Zach to rave about Atlus' latest RPG, Metaphor: ReFantazio. Known for the Shin Megami Tensei and Persona series, Metaphor offers a brand-new world full of all the things you love about previous Atlus games: close character relationships, incredible world-building, and jaw-dropping UI. It's absolutely in the running for GOTY 2024! But another contender for GOTY is the brand-new entry in the Zelda series, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, and Paul and Mike are here to talk about it! While it may look like a retro-inspired 2D Zelda game on the surface, this title brings a shockingly novel innovation to the series: Zelda as a playable character. Imagine! Featuring: Jono Logan, Mike Salbato, Paul Skevington, Zach Wilkerson, and Zek Lu; Edited by Jono Logan
This Episode's Related Links: | |||
| 306 - Compiling the Compilations | 30 sept. 2024 | 01:08:34 | |
On this episode of Random Encounter, it's time to chat about some recent game compilations! Game compilations are not only a fantastic way to re-experience older games, but they also offer excellent value for your money! Even if the games are a little old, you're still getting multiple games for the price of one. And if you're lucky, the developer will have gone the extra mile to add quality-of-life features, remastered graphics and sound, and lots of additional bells and whistles! So, Zach is here to discuss the Castlevania Dominus Collection, a compilation of all three DS-era Castlevania games (Dawn of Sorrow, Portrait of Ruin, and Order of Ecclesia). These, along with the titles in the Castlevania Advance Collection, were the games that cemented the portmanteau "Metroidvania," so they are well worth a second (or maybe even first) look. Then, Jono gets to chat about one of his favorite series with the release of the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection. Combining Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth and the previously-unreleased-in-the-West Ace Attorney Investigations 2: Prosecutor's Gambit, this compilation will give you the same wacky suspects, logical deductions, and heartfelt characters that the series is known for! Plus, thanks to some incredible timing, Jono and Zach get to freak out about the upcoming Lunar Remastered Collection! This is going to be a good one!
This Episode's Related Links: | |||