Back

Explore every episode of the podcast RPGFan's Random Encounter

Dive into the complete episode list for RPGFan's Random Encounter. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

Rows per page:

1–50 of 342

TitlePub. DateDuration
304 - Czar of Mana02 Sep 202401:03:58

On this episode of Random Encounter, we're talking politics! Well, no, not really, but there are some jokes about politics in here...

First up, Izzy has played the first new Mana game since 2020's Trials of Mana remake, Visions of Mana! With spiky hair, lush landscapes, and real-time RPG action, it's undeniably a Mana game, but does it live up to the heights of the series' golden age on the SNES?

Then, Jerry reviews what's been described as the first AAA video game ever developed in China, Black Myth: Wukong. Does this stunning Souls-like portend the rise of the AAA Chinese gaming industry, or is it a missed opportunity in the politics of soft power (See, jokes about politics! Whee!)?


Featuring: Jono Logan, Izzy Parsons, and Jerry Williams; Edited by Jono Logan


Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
RPGFan Shop
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Threads: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom


This Episode's Related Links:
Visions of Mana Review
Collection of Mana Review
Trials of Mana Review
Black Myth: Wukong Review

303 - Anthropomorphic Crime Fighting19 Aug 202401:12:12

On this episode of Random Encounter, we're chatting about some of video game history's most prolific anthropomorphic animal crimefighters!

First up, Jono binge-plays the brand-new remaster of the third season of Telltale Games' Sam & Max series: The Devil's Playhouse. Lovingly remastered by Skunkape Games, does this remaster bring the 2010 point-and-click up to speed? Or is it left as roadkill on the highway of history?

Then, Hilary chats about the recent demo of the eagerly awaited revival of the Mana series: Visions of Mana. Coming out on August 29th, does this demo deliver that classic Mana taste?   

Finally, Abe teams up with the turtles-in-a-half-shell to rescue Master Splinter in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Spintered Fate. Rather than the tried-and-true, beat-em-up genre, Splintered Fate pulls its inspiration from Hades. And boy, it pulls a LOT of inspiration! Is this Hades-like worth playing, or is it better left in the sewers?

Featuring: Jono Logan, Hilary Andreff, and Abraham Kobylanski; Edited by Jono Logan


Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
RPGFan Shop
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Threads: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom


This Episode's Related Links:
Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse Remastered Review
Visions of Mana Hands-On: A Beautiful Return to Form Preview
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate Review

294 - Crawl Out Through the Fallout, Baby15 Apr 202401:29:11

On this episode of Random Encounter, ex-host Random Greg Delmage returns to share his film expertise while chatting about the new Fallout TV show!

Video game adaptations are hot right now, and Amazon has just dropped what might be the best one yet: Fallout! Based on the long-running RPG series, Fallout, the show is an exploration of the far future after a nuclear war in the 21st century destroyed all of civilization. With a pitch-perfect mix of dark humor, brutal violence, and a retro-50s future aesthetic, Fallout translates everything we love about the games into a brand-new, in-continuity story set in the LA Wasteland.

Jono reviewed the entire series for the site last week (spoiler: he loved it), and he's excited to be reunited with Greg to chat about why this series should be of interest to all of the RPG fans out there!

Featuring: Jono Logan and Greg Delmage; Edited by Jono Logan


Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
RPGFan Shop
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Fallout Season One Review
Retro Encounter 412 – Fallout Encounter
Fallout Review
Fallout 2 Review
Fallout 3 Review
Fallout: New Vegas Review
Fallout 4 Review
Fallout 76 Review

204 - Can Bad Games Ever Be Good?28 Dec 202001:20:04

On this episode of Random Encounter, Jono has braved the wastes of
Appalachia in Fallout 76 and, well, it's not as bad as it once was. Despite not expecting to get into it so soon, Greg has been playing Cyberpunk 2077, and so has Tooker, so they have some thoughts to chat out on this incredibly contentious release. A fun question from our guest panelist and chatter rounds out the episode, so enjoy!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, John "Tooker" Tucker; Edited by Greg Delmage

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Fallout 76
Cyberpunk 2077

RPGFan Games of the Year 2020: Readers’ Choice Voting

RPGFan’s 30 Most Anticipated Games of 2021

Minoria
Luminous Plume
Period: Cube ~Shackles of Amadeus~
The Falconeer

203 - Enjoying the Apocalypse!13 Dec 202001:09:05

On this episode of Random Encounter, it's just Greg and Jono talkin' about some games of (relative) yore! Greg wrapped up on the stellar Horizon Zero Dawn and shares his final thoughts. This means Greg has time for Chrono Cross, for better or worse! Feeling the bug for Cyberpunk 2077, Jono decided to fill the void with Fallout 4 and many, many, mods that sound awesome! Of course, we can't ignore that reviews are out on Cyberpunk 2077 and it's... all over the place. All this and a listener email, so come have a listen!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan; Edited by Greg Delmage

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Horizon Zero Dawn
Chrono Cross
Fallout 4
Cyberpunk 2077

202 - Getting Ready to Winter28 Nov 202001:11:28

On this episode of Random Encounter, Greg and Quinton discuss their adventures in the latest Pokemon Sword and Shield DLC, The Crown Tundra, which has proven to be a solid addition to the game. Jono had a storied experience with Yakuza: Like a Dragon, but has completed this gem that you oughta' play! The PlayStation 5 and X Box Series X have hit the streets, so what does the team think of them? What will they get? Lastly, happy belated N7 day! Mass Effect is finally coming back, remastered and likely better than ever, so we're pretty excited for that! All this, and more, on the episode!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Quinton O'Connor; Edited by Brian Ingemanson

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Pokémon Sword & Shield: The Crown Tundra
Mass Effect: Legendary Edition

Flashback Friday: An Adventure through a Tower of Doom in the Arcade
We Saved the World… Now What? Exploring Final Fantasy X-2’s Theme of Rebuilding

Review: Genshin Impact
Review: Othercide
Review: Café Enchanté
Review: Buried Stars
Review: Robotics;Notes DaSH

201 - They Don't All Have an Impact13 Nov 202001:28:07

On this episode of Random Encounter, Greg continues his clicking in Torchlight III but seems ready to wrap it up. He has also been trudging through The Crown Tundra with his pokémon a bit, but has much more to do there. Caitlin was eagerly awaiting Trails of Cold Steel IV, but has been left wanting a bit. What has blown her away is her time with Genshin Impact! Finally, Yakuza: Like a Dragon has really put the Tojo Clan into crises as Jono will happily explain! A bit o' side chat and more, so have a listen!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Caitlin Argyros; Edited by Brian Ingemanson

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Torchlight III
Pokémon Sword & Shield: The Crown Tundra
Genshin Impact
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV
Yakuza: Like a Dragon

200 - Don't You, Forget About Me28 Oct 202002:11:50

On this episode of Random Encounter, we're on video!

That's right, you can see the faces (if you want) of some of your RPGFan podcast hosts on this special 200th episode!

We take a look back at the episode that started it all with Rob Steinman and the crew, while still talking about the stuff we've been playing lately! Mike's been loving 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim when he's not playing Retro Encounter games, and we take a nice little detour with all that. Jono finally pried himself from Spelunky 2 long enough to try out Streets Of Kamurocho, a fun RPG-adjacent offering from SEGA. As for Greg, Torchlight III has been occupying his time. We take a look at the games discussed 10 years prior and then dive into the same topic Rob first posed: what do we all think about RPG elements creeping into other genres? All this, and a lot more, for you to listen to!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Mike Sollosi; Edited by Greg Delmage

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Random Encounter Ep. 200 on YouTube
Random Encounter Ep. 1

199 - We're the Renegades of... RPGs...?11 Oct 202001:30:26

On this episode of Random Encounter, well, a few things happened! Greg's pretty excited about his time with the recently released Star Renegades, so here's hoping you are too! Quinton's a newcomer to Random and brings in his experience with P5 Royal, and we all share thoughts on problematic elements in games that don't always age well. Aside from asides, Jono's only delved into some off-brand games, but they're good ones worth hearing about! Finally, some RPG-adjacent Smash news that's pretty neat, so why not talk a bit about that? Come check out the conversation!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Quinton O'Connor; Edited by Brian Ingemanson

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Star Renegades
Persona 5 Royal Review

Flashback Friday 5: PlayStation
Beyond the Sunset: Skies of Arcadia’s Endless Optimism 20 Years On
Defending Champions: The Best RPGs of Every Year Since Dragon Quest (1987–1999)
Defending Champions: The Best RPGs of Every Year Since Dragon Quest (2000–2009)
Defending Champions: The Best RPGs of Every Year Since Dragon Quest (2010–2019)

Hades Review
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles Remastered Edition Review
Robotics;Notes ELITE Review
Banner of the Maid: The Oriental Pirate DLC Review
The Outer Worlds: Peril on Gorgon DLC Review
Nioh 2: The Tengu’s Disciple DLC Review

198 - Storied Worlds and Worlds of Stories!26 Sep 202001:42:23

On this episode of Random Encounter, we talk about the news from both Microsoft and Sony, as well as our hype for FFXVI's reveal! Greg chats about his adventures in Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles Remaster and if it's worth getting into! Pete made a case to cover Crusader Kings III for the site, and are we glad he did cause the stories are wild! Getting Jono back into The Outer Wilds for Peril on Gorgon was an easy task, and he's glad this new adventure seems to hold up! Finally, Nathan and I are both excited for more farming with Rune Factory 5 getting some more coverage recently and can't wait for it to release! Idle chit-chat is at its minimum, but come listen to us anyway!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Nathan Lee, Pete Leavitt; Edited by Greg Delmage

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Final Fantasy XVI Reveal
Rune Factory 5 Brings The Beloved Series Back in 2021

Crowdfunding Chronicles: Dwerve
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Scarlet Republics

Friday Flashback: When, How, and Why I Fell in Love with Wild ARMs
Friday Flashback: Fat Stacks (of Actual Paper) OR How I Learned to Play Sakura Wars

Feature - RPGs as Therapy II: How RPGs (Still) Makes Us Better

Review - 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim
Review - Marvel's Avengers
Review - Summer in Mara
Review - Snack World: The Dungeon Crawl - Gold
Review - Paradise Killer
Review - Hotel Sowls


197 - Rhythm Encounter: Re-Returning12 Sep 202001:50:09

On this episode of Random Encounter, the panelists assemble to talk music! Yes, Rhythm Encounter is back and we're here to share in some of the love! Greg, Jono, and Mike have picked 3 albums from there "to listen" lists and are here to share their thoughts and a few of their choice tracks! Stay a while, and listen!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Mike Salbato; Edited by Micah Coates

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
The Celtic Link: Themes from "The Legend of Zelda"
Beer SQ
OCTOPATH TRAVELER Break, Boost and Beyond Live!

196 - Trying Some New Things02 Sep 202001:14:57

On this episode of Random Encounter, Hilary needs you to know that Iron Danger is great and you should probably play it! After the Nintendo Indie showcase, Raji: An Ancient Epic caught Hilary's attention and she dishes on her experience so far! Rogue Legacy 2 has opened its Early Access phase and is so far shaping up to match its predecessor. Jo has been adventuring in Suikoden II and is a true Star of Destiny themselves. If the hype of Suikoden isn't enough, we're all stoked for Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes! Lastly, the pending release of Yakuza: Like a Dragon has Jono on the edge of his seat and willing to fight Jo, or any others, to review it! Episode 200 is coming, so give us your suggestions for what you want to hear on it!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Hilary Andreff, Jo Padilla; Edited by Brian Ingemanson

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

195 - A Summer Sampler17 Aug 202001:04:43

On this episode of Random Encounter we find out about Mario's latest RPG adventure, Paper Mario: The Origami King from Tooker. Necrobarista spins a beautiful yarn and looks great doing it, and Zach lets us know all his feels. Greg's been island-hopping in Summer in Mara, loving the simple adventure for the escape it is! Lastly, Jono wanted Greg's take on Murder by Numbers!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, John "Tooker" Tucker, Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Brian Ingemanson

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

293 - Dogmatic Dragons01 Apr 202401:21:41

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-price game. Do these money-grubbing measures really impact players' overall enjoyment of the title?


Then, Tim is here to chat about Lucas Pope's latest game, Mars After Midnight. Known for his indie classics Papers, Please and Return of the Obra Dinn, Pope has moved from consoles and PC over to the crank-enhanced handheld known as the Playdate. Does the tiny screen and simplified gameplay hurt MaM, or do the limitations inspire brilliance?


Featuring: Jono Logan, Izzy Parsons, and Tim Rattray; Edited by Jono Logan


Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
RPGFan Shop
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Dragon's Dogma 2 Review
Dragon's Dogma Review
Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen Review
Mars After Midnight Review
Return of the Obra Dinn Review

194 - Kids-Eye View31 Jul 202001:49:03

On this episode of Random Encounter we talk about how Pokemon Sword & Shield's DLC Isle of Armor brings some new elements to the title for Peter and Gwen to dish about! Tooker adventured in the depths of Minecraft Dungeons, which Gwen recently got for her birthday and has been playing with her dad. Nintendo Directs aren't just for Nintendo anymore! Are other companies using them effectively during this con. season hiatus?

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, John "Tooker" Tucker, Peter Triezenberg, Gwen; Edited by Micah Coates

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Review - Pokemon Sword & Shield: The Isle of Armor
Review - Minecraft Dungeons

RPGFan.com Under Maintenance

Crowdfunding Chronicles - Arcadia Fallen

Review - Operencia: The Stolen Sun
Review - Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2
Review - Arc of Alchemist

Preview - Monster Crown

Music Review - Parallelus

193 - Puzzling, but Fun!18 Jul 202001:44:48

On this episode of Random Encounter:

  • Jono jumped back to the 90s to solve puzzles and crimes in Murder By Numbers!
  • Greg finally adventured in Link's Awakening playing the Switch remake!
  • CrossCode got ported to the Switch, but according to Jono it didn't make the transition smoothly...
  • A few listener emails get peppered throughout the episode
  • And just general chitchat, like we do!


Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan; Edited by Greg Delmage

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Whateverland
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Corven - Path of Redemption
Brigandine: The Legend of Runersia Interview with Producer and Game Designer Kazuhiro Igarashi
To The Top: Virginia and Disunity

So you want to get into The Trails Series...
So You Want to Get Into Ys
So you want to Start An Atelier...

If Found...
Pokémon Sword & Shield: The Isle of Armor
Brigandine: The Legend of Runersia
The Outer Worlds
Pillars of Dust
Persona 4 Golden
Death Come True
The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III
Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town
Her Story
BoxxyQuest: The Gathering Storm
Minecraft Dungeons

EPOCH: A Tribute to Chrono Trigger

192 - Take Pride in Your Party!05 Jul 202001:32:15

On this episode of Random Encounter:

  • Staff members sat down for a special Pride Month episode all about queerness and RPGs!
  • Topics include the community, our first encounters with LGBTQ+ media, and which games we feel represent us well... and maybe not so well!
  • Games covered include Timespinner, Persona 2, If Found..., and more.


Featuring: Jo Padilla, Alana Hagues, Caitlin Argyros, Leona McCallum

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Timespinner Review
If Found... Review
Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 2 Innocent Sin (PSP) Review
Persona 2: Eternal Punishment (PSone) Review

191 - Like Suikoden Up In Here!19 Jun 202002:06:12

On this episode of Random Encounter:

  • Everyone weighs in on their fave bits from the PS5 reveal event!
  • The Outer Worlds has hit the Switch in Tooker's hot hands, but does it hold up? Jono wants to know!
  • With the return of Xenoblade Chronicles, Steph has made room in her schedule for some necessary Reyn Time!
  • Patrick commandeers the podcast for SaGa talk, and really, no one is disappointed!
  • Maneater is an RPG about a shark. What's not to love? Neal gives us the best bites from this open-water RPG!


Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Steph Sybydlo, Patrick Gann, John Tucker, Neal Chandran

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Black Lives Matter

Crowdfunding Chronicles: Weaving Tides
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Black Book
Crowdfunding Chronicles: Externus — Path of the Solari

Ogre Battle 64 Challenges the Notion of a "Person of Lordly Caliber"
Great Games to Play While You're Still at Home

Hero Must Die. Again Review
Utawarerumono: Prelude to the Fallen Review
Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling Review
Maneater Review 
Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition Review
Persona 4 Golden Review-in-Progress: Now on Steam!
Monster Train Review

RPGFan Music: Octopath Traveler Break, Boost and Beyond Live! Review + Video

Patrick Gann's SaGa Scarlet Grace: Ambitions Trophy Guide
Patrick Gann's Romancing SaGa 2 Trophy Guide
Patrick Gann's Romancing SaGa 3 Trophy Guide

190 - Some Heavy Stuff05 Jun 202001:24:25

On this episode of Random Encounter:

  • We got news on Paper Mario: The Origami King and our bodies are ready to be folded into this new adventure!
  • Bug Fables definitely takes some notes from Paper Mario, as Alana elucidates for us!
  • What's an episode without Yakuza? Well, another episode, but Jono has gone back to Yakuza 0 to refresh his memories!
  • Greg got gacha'd by Final Fantasy Brave Exvius: War of the Visions!


Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Alana Hagues

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Black Lives Matter - Check this out to find ways to lend support
Black Game Developers

Aurion: Legacy of the Kori-Odan
Sweetxheart
Treachery in Beatdown City
She Dreams Elsewhere
Cryamore
Clique

One Man Left Studios
Xalavier Nelson Jr.
Brass Lion Entertainment

Pelvic Gaming with Lady Pelvic
Geak
Zoe Amira Fundraiser

Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling

189 - Passing a Pane One Can Gaze Beyond!22 May 202001:33:22

On this episode of Random Encounter:

188 - Stir a Little More J Into That RPG!08 May 202001:25:58

On this episode of Random Encounter:

  • the remake of Trials of Mana is here and Greg got into it with gusto!
  • Sakura Wars is anime, and anime anime anime Nathan anime'd!
  • Neal partakes of an 80s after school special in Wintermoor Tactics Club!
  • we got listener mail!
  • Jono's knee-deep in Bravely Second and is about ready for Bravely Default 2!
  • we talk about our preferred RPG tastes, be they western or eastern!


Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Nathan Lee, Neal Chandran

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfan
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Fists of Fury: Organized Crime and Futility in Yakuza Kiwami
So you want to Start An Atelier...
Memories of Midgar: Our Favorite Moments from the Mechanical Metropolis of Final Fantasy VII
Finding Lost Jerusalem: Why You Should Play Xenosaga
"Man Must Own the World": Final Fantasy XIV, Gaius van Baelsar, and The Praetorium Speech
Even if Our Words Seem Meaningless: Yoko Taro's Plea for Universal Empathy in NieR

Sakura Wars Review
Trials of Mana Review
Wintermoor Tactics Club

(Officially) Introducing a New Podcast Experience at RPGFan

187 - How Would You Like Your Retro With That?24 Apr 202001:49:36
  • We have been wanting it, and now we're playing it! Alana and Jo dish on FFVII Remake for us.
  • Jono's wrapped things up with Bravely Default and is ready to move onto the next!
  • Indie retro-style RPG Pillars of Dust has offered a fun, nostalgia-inspired adventure for Greg.
  • We discuss how remakes and homages use nostalgia in different ways, for better or worse!
  • A listener email has been received!


Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Alana Hagues, Jo Padilla

Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfan
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Final Fantasy VII Remake Review
Final Fantasy VII Remake Video Review
Persona 5 Royal Review
Shin Megami Tensei: Liberation Dx2 Review
Sakura Wars Preview
Little Town Hero Video Review
Bravely Default Review

Crowdfunding Chronicles: Chinatown Detective Agency
"Man Must Own the World": Final Fantasy XIV Article

186 - A Fresh Coat of Paint11 Apr 202001:26:24

On this episode of Random Encounter: 

  • Jono wraps up on his Yakuza experiences with Judgment. That's all... FOR NOW!
  • Tyler is here to regale us with his tales from Dragon Quest XI S, to tell us how the improvements between versions stack up.
  • Nathan reviewed Rune Factory 4 Special Edition for us, so Greg and he get into the finer points of digital anime farming!
  • The Bravely Default II Demo was a nice surprise that Greg picked up, and Jono has just started up Bravely Default in anticipation of the sequel.
  • Finally, Nathan has been working his way through Persona 5 Royal and is quite delighted with the improvements brought to this version!
  • DISCLAIMER Due to the given circumstances of folks staying at home due to COVID-19, Nathan's audio features his family in the background lol.

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Nathan Lee, Tyler Trosper
Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

185 - Nothing But Love Over Here!28 Mar 202001:47:41

On this episode of Random Encounter: - everyone on the episode has played the FFVIIR Demo, so we wanna' talk about it! - Greg got into the Trials of Mana Demo in anticipation of its coming release! - Caitlin's experience in FFXIV: Shadowbringers 5.2 is different from Mike's, so we definitely wanna' hear about it! - Jono WAS gonna' quit Yakuza (the Dark Souls of Jono Logan) for a bit after finishing 5 Remastered, but then he didn't! He's gettin' into Yakuza 6 and Judgement! More fistcuffs! - we certainly can't skirt the elephant in the room that is COVID-19, but don't worry, we don't belabor the point, because... - ...SILLY TIMES AHEAD! Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Caitlin Argyros Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

292 - The Lord of All Unicorns18 Mar 202401:22:08

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, though?

And the overwhelming amount of fan content inspired by 2015's Undertale finally reaches its logical culmination with an incredible fan game that actually has the blessing of creator Toby Fox: Undertale Yellow. A prequel that follows the story of a previous soul who fell into the underground, Yellow delivers an experience that doesn't just live up to its inspiration but surpasses it in some ways. Aleks' feature, Undertale Yellow Feels Like a Legit Prequel, not only brings attention to this incredible labor of love, but also helped to open his eyes to the potential of fan games!


Featuring: Jono Logan, Joshua Lindquist, and Aleks Franiczek; Edited by Jono Logan


Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
RPGFan Shop
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Ogre Battle: The March of the Black Queen Review
Unicorn Overlord Review
Undertale Yellow Feels Like a Legit Prequel
Undertale Review

184 - Up With the Times14 Mar 202001:45:34

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Shadowbringers 5.2 has dropped since someone last said "FFXIV", so Mike's here to discuss it! - Stoneshard, by dev Hypetrain, has gotten Greg on its hypetrain, even if it's challenging as heck! - Jono has wrapped up his time with Yakuza 5 and is ready for more of that gang life! - In anticipation of a future Retro Encounter, Mike's spent a lot of time with Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore! - The FFVIIR demo has dropped and it's looking sharp! - E3 is on the horizon, but will it survive COVID-19, let alone the changing times? (After this recorded, it turns out, NO.) Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Mike Sollosi Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

183 - Walk Me Through This, Please.29 Feb 202001:17:29

On this episode of Random Encounter:

  • Greg manages to find his way of the dungeon in Wizardry: Labyrinth of Lost Souls long enough to talk about it!
  • Jono has been kicking, punching, and singing his way through Yakuza, the latest being Yakuza 5!
  • The backlog is real, we all know that, and Jono has been doing his darndest these past weeks to clear his out!
  • Chit chat about some other stuff!


Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

182 - We Attac, But We Also Protec RPGs15 Feb 202001:36:20

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Nathan has gone back to Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE now that it's on Switch, and so far, the port holds up! - The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance Tactics just dropped and Greg is here to discuss what works and what doesn't! - The PSO2 Beta is live and Caitlin is one of the team members exploring space now that it (was) here on Western shores! - a listener email reminds us we're loved! - side chat and more! Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Nathan Lee Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

181 - A Quick Start to 202001 Feb 202001:02:15

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Greg tried out the Pokemon Mystery Dungeon Rescue Team DX demo, reveling in its sweetness! - Pete has immersed himself in Harebrained Scheme's latest expansion to BATTLETECH and is living his best merc life! - Continuing the trend of dungeon-delving, Greg has dipped into the "Wizardry Renaissance" that Wizardry: Labyrinth of Lost Souls has brought West! - Less talk about cork floors! Featuring: Greg Delmage, Pete Leavitt Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

180 - RPGFan 2019 Game of the Year Awards Pt. 318 Jan 202001:43:08

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Our panelists cover the last of this years awards! - It's mostly Cold Steel III and Shadowbringers from this point on, but so much good stuff came to us in 2019! - We shout out to readers/listeners! - A Jedi baby? Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Peter Triezenberg, Jono Logan Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

179 - RPGFan 2019 Game of the Year Awards Pt. 215 Jan 202001:29:55

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Our panelists cover the next few categories in this year's awards! - As before, we maybe didn't all play everything (too many games), but we all have thoughts! - Danger, the enemy is approaching. Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Peter Triezenberg, Tyler Trosper Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

178 - RPGFan 2019 Game of the Year Awards Pt. 112 Jan 202001:38:02

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Our panelists cover the first few categories in this years awards - Some of the games we got to play, others we really want to, and a few aren't even on our radar! To each their own! - Happy New Year! We chit chat about the holidays and such! Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jonathan Logan, Peter Triezenberg, Tyler Trosper Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

177 - What Retro Encounter Said28 Dec 201901:17:40

On this episode of Random Encounter:
- Talkin' bout Trails and FFXIV news!
- What did we love about 2019?
- What do we resolve to game with in 2020?
- What are our wildest hopes for next year!?
- Happy Holidays, folks!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

176 - Some Epic Sagas20 Dec 201901:45:34

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Jono experienced Romancing SaGa 3, reviewed it, and you should probably hear him discuss it. - SD Gundam G Generation Cross Rays is a mouthful to say, but Kyle is not only up to playing it, but telling us about this well-known little-known series! - Neverwinter Nights: Enhanced Edition has made its way to consoles and Greg is muddling his way through it! - Listeners have questions, we have answers! - And we talk some Christmas nonsense (and Abercrombie Video & Variety) to kick it all off!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jono Logan, Kyle Kortvely

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

175 - Life and Times with Video Games03 Dec 201901:46:43

On this episode of Random Encounter: - After a wait of almost 2 decades, Shenmue III picks up without missing a beat for Alana! - Cope Island: Adrift deals with the feels as Greg explores its intriguing world and narrative! - Everyone (well, ALMOST everyone) has been playing new Pokemon, and all three on the cast are of that majority! - And a few side quests (diversions!) fill out the episode quite nicely!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jo Padilla, Alana Hagues

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

291 - Let's Explore a Mystery Dungeon!04 Mar 202401:12:12

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 the release of the latest entry, Shiren the Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon of Serpentcoil Island, we thought it would be a great time to take a deep dive into the series in preparation for our "So You Want to Get Into the Mystery Dungeon Series..." feature! Ben Love is here to walk us through these mystery dungeons and tell us everything we need to know to get started on our own JRPG rogue-like adventure! 


Featuring: Jono Logan and Ben Love; Edited by Jono Logan


Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
RPGFan Shop
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Shiren the Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon of Serpentcoil Island Review

174 - It Can Take a Little to Do A Lot08 Nov 201901:56:43

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Caitlin spent a lot of time with Trails of Cold Steel III and has plenty to say about it (almost all good!) - If you didn't read his review, then Jono is here to say more about how great exploring The Outer Worlds was! - Having had the unfortunate displeasure of experiencing all that went wrong with Fallout 76, Jono was the perfect person to discuss "Fallout 1st" with! - Alongside usual chitchat, we field listener questions once more!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Jono Logan

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

173 - A Bag of Many Things!25 Oct 201901:03:18

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Nathan's been playing GameFreak's latest, Little Town Hero and isn't quite sure where it sits! - Greg finishes off Monster Hunter World: Iceborne strong and looks forward to the endgame grind. - Ni No Kuni Remastered brings some new polish to an older title, though Nathan thinks it's mostly for fans. - Finally having time again, Greg's gone back to Wargroove to see if he can finish Mercia's quest! - And we discuss some new games on the horizon, the swell Doraemon: Story of Seasons demo, and whatever else came to mind!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Nathan Lee

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

172 - New (Old) Island Adventures!11 Oct 201901:14:37

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Mark talks Link's Awakening for Switch! - Greg talks Monster Hunter World: Iceborne! - Jo has hopped into the "definitive version" of Dragon Quest XI! - Mark loves Final Fantasy VIII, while Jo is starting to realize how bonkers it gets! - We actually mention Kamen Rider (and mecha and poutine and other shenanigans!)

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Jo Padilla, Mark Tjan

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

171 - We Talk About RPGs, Right?27 Sep 201901:14:04

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Greg gets into the first big expansion for Moonlighter, Between Dimensions! - Pete gushes over Star Traders: Frontiers and how it does so much right for an RPG/space/management game! - These two nerd out about their shared love of all things mecha, but mostly Battletech/Mechwarrior! - And some news and a sufficient amount of sidequesting (aka off-topic digressions!)

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Pete Leavitt

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

170 - Who Has the Time?13 Sep 201901:24:26

On this episode of Random Encounter: - We all talk about Nintendo Direct news! So many RPGs! - FFVIII Remaster is shaping up nicely for Jo's first time, and Leona's loving the revisit. - Nathan reviewed Fire Emblem: Three Houses for us and absolutely loved it. Leona's been all about her upside-down boy in it as well! Both on their second playthroughs, they've plenty to talk about. - September has so many new games to offer, so we quickly chat about what we are anticipating the most! - And, as always, shenanigans on the side!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Nathan Lee, Jo Padilla, Leona McCallum

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

169 - Building Up the Summer06 Aug 201901:52:49

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Dragon Quest Builders 2 is out and everyone (but Greg :( ) is playing it! - What Greg IS playing is Undertale. FINALLY. - There is also some talk of FFXIV and Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, as well as a little news!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Alana Hagues, Mike Salbato, Lucy Gray

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

168 - The Latest of Games18 Jul 201901:52:49

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Mike and Greg gab about Trials of Mana (some more!) - Joe goes in a bit deeper on Persona Q2 - Caitlin's been knee-deep in Shadowbringers and Mike still has some adventuring to do before he reaches that content - Bloodstained is a resounding success of a Kickstarter that Mike has been digging!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi, and Joe Czop

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

167 - Keeping Up with the Rush01 Jul 201901:47:55

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Those of us who weren't at E3 briefly talk about our favourite surprises. - Greg mentioned Druidstone: The Secret of the Menhir Forest that one time, but actually talks about it and all its SRPG goodness! - Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth has been out for a bit and Nathan has been jumping into the movies to find an escape! - Peter is stoked for Tales of Arise, so he decided he should probably play some Tales of again, starting with Tales of Berseria! - Zach has passed judgment on Judgment! - Exploring space with its myriad denizens has kept Greg busy lately in Citizens of Space! - Nathan's love of Neptunia is nothing new, but Super Neptunia RPG is and he has some thoughts! - And finally, we chat a bit about the drama surrounding Pokemon Sword and Shield's Pokedex woes that have ignited the fandom. - Plus the usual sidetracked shenanigans!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Peter Triezenberg, Nathan Lee, Zach Wilkerson

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

166 - The E3 2019 Show18 Jun 201901:46:08

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Corey and Zach make their Random debut! - long time staff and friends get the rare opportunity to hang in the same room! - The RPGFan staff in attendance chat about what they've seen or gotten their hands on at E3 2019 down in Los Angeles! - find out what games received Game of Show awards from us!

Featuring: Michael Sollosi, Mike Salbato, Alana Hagues, Stephanie Sybydlo, Hilary Andreff, Corey Hall, Zach Wilkerson

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

165 - To New Horizons04 Jun 201902:00:31

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Caitlin talks about her adventures in The Legend of Heroes series as she anticipates Trails of Cold Steel III! - Mike's gotten back into FFXIV, so naturally, we talk about it like Steinman talks about Dark Souls! - Greg played Druidstone, but he'll talk about later because... - We get to talk about E3! What's confirmed, what we hope, and what we wildly speculate!

Featuring: Greg Delmage, Caitlin Argyros, and Mike Sollosi

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

290 - The Rebirth of Final Fantasy VII27 Feb 202401:08:00

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 thoughts about the story, characters, battle system, world, and where he thinks the final part of this trilogy might go (hopefully before 2030).

Oh, and don't worry, no spoilers will be found here about who may or may not die in the game!

Featuring: Jono Logan and Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Jono Logan


Get in Touch:
RPGFan.com
RPGFan Shop
Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com
Twitter: @rpgfancom
Instagram: @rpgfancom
Facebook: rpgfancom
Twitch: rpgfancom

This Episode's Related Links:
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Review
Final Fantasy VII Remake Review
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intermission DLC Review
Final Fantasy XVI Review

164 - Farming Materia17 May 201901:34:06

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Greg, Hilary, and new to Random Encounter, Lucy, comment, speculate, and reminisce in the wake of the Final Fantasy VII Remake trailer that just dropped Thursday, Apr. 9! - Greg briefly takes us into the trailer for Monster Hunter World: Iceborne that also dropped Thursday, Apr. 9. - Lucy and Hilary are excited to get their hands dirty on the farm once more with the impending 1.4 update for Stardew Valley! - Finally, a listener question has the crew hearkening back to their earlier days of gaming! - Plus a lot of nonsense!

Featuring: Greg Delmage. Hilary Andreff, Lucy Gray

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

163 - Bonds of Crystal and Light24 Apr 201901:58:47

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Mike returns to the world of Eorzea by resubbing to FFXIV, finishes Octopath Traveler (Tressa rules, btw), and briefly chats about Ys: The Oath in Felghana. If you're interested in that last one, be sure to check out Retro this month! - Alana tells the gang about a sweet little visual novel called Arcade Spirits. If dating or just being friends with a bunch of cool arcade nerds sounds like fun, this game might be right up your alley. - Baten Kaitos is a somewhat forgotten GameCube gem, but Alana has plenty of love for it as she engages in a series replay. - Caitlin is gearing up for this fall's Trails of Cold Steel III by playing all of the Kiseki games she can get her hands on. She's currently halfway through the Sky trilogy, and is having an absolute blast! - The gang rounds out the episode by chatting about some recent news and answering a listener question about modern classics.

Featuring: Caitlin Argyros, Mike Sollosi, Alana Hagues

Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

162 - A Positively Pleasant Palette Cleanse08 Apr 201901:12:11

On this episode of Random Encounter: - Peter dishes on what is finally the final Final Fantasy XV DLC, Episode Ardyn and its dashing pro-antagonist. - For its 20th anniversary, the Atelier series has brought everyone together in Nelke & the Legendary Alchemists: Ateliers of the New World, so Nathan decided to make it his first! - Greg is still knee deep in the battlefields of Left Alive, but got to reflect on some good times revisiting Chrono Trigger with his daughter. - It has been noted by Nathan that RPGFan has woefully overlooked covering Dragalia Lost for review, which he means to remedy! - And in anticipation of Pokemon Sword and Shield, Peter has dusted off Pokemon White to slake his need to catch 'em all! Featuring: Greg Delmage, Peter Triezenberg, Nathan Lee Questions? Comments? Spare Potions? Email us: podcast@rpgfan.com

© My Podcast Data