Episodes

  • Hellboy Asylum Seeker with Andrew Young (Behold!)
    May 27 2024

    Welcome to another thrilling episode of Play Comics, where we dive into the pixelated past and unearth the hidden gems (and occasional duds) of comic book video games! This week, we’re strapping on our stone fists and stepping into the bizarre world of Hellboy: Asylum Seeker—a game that’s as elusive as a chupacabra at a cryptozoology convention.

    Join us as we navigate the murky waters of this PS1 survival horror oddity, a game that somehow manages to make Hellboy—a big, red, demon with a penchant for smashing things—feel like a lost tourist in a haunted house. With its fixed camera angles, tank controls, and combat that’s slower than a snail on a Sunday stroll, Hellboy: Asylum Seeker is a curious relic from the year 2000 that has left fans divided. Is it a forgotten masterpiece or the worst PS1 game ever made? We’ll let you decide!

    But we’re not braving this asylum alone. We’ve got a special guest, Andrew Young from the podcast Behold!, to help us dissect this digital disasterpiece. Andrew brings his encyclopedic knowledge of all things Hellboy and a sense of humor sharper than Hellboy’s horns (pre-filed, of course).

    So, grab your revolver (it might not help much), hold down that attack button, and join us for a hilarious and insightful look at Hellboy: Asylum Seeker. Trust us, this is one episode you won’t want to miss—unless you’re one of those monsters who doesn’t care about getting shot.

    Learn such things as:

    • Does it matter if the game is based on anything?
    • Shouldn’t we get to punch more Nazis?
    • Why you should be more careful with your scientific endeavors
    • And so much more!

    You can find Andrew by looking at the Behold! account on Twitter or of course the Behold! website. You should especially check out the episode looking at the 2004 Hellboy film because it’s Hellboy, and the episode looking at Fan4stick because it has me in it.

    If you want to be a guest on the show please check out the Be a A Guest on the Show page and let me know what you’re interested in.

    If you want to help support the show check out the Play Comics Patreon page or head over to the Support page if you want to go another route. You can also check out the Play Comics Merch Store.

    Play Comics is part of the Gonna Geek Network, which is a wonderful collection of geeky podcasts. Be sure to check out the other shows on Gonna Geek if you need more of a nerd fix.

    You can find Play Comics @playcomics.bsky.social on Bluesky, @playcomicscast on Twitter and in the Play Comics Podcast Fan Group on Facebook.

    A big thanks to Valor Verse Special from Dauntless Stories as well as Chatsunami for the promos today.

    Intro/Outro Music by Best Day, who thinks that I’m a Hell demon.

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    38 mins
  • Gundam Wing: Endless Duel with Billy and Erinn
    May 20 2024

    Welcome back, fellow mecha maniacs, to another electrifying episode of Play Comics! This week, we’re strapping into our mobile suits and diving headfirst into the pixelated battlefield of Gundam Wing: Endless Duel on the Super Famicom. Prepare for a high-octane journey through the cosmos as we dissect this classic fighting game based on the legendary Mobile Suit Gundam franchise.

    But wait, there’s more! We’re thrilled to announce the return of our dynamic duo of guests, the incomparable Billy and the ever-enthusiastic Erinn! These two are back by popular demand, ready to share their insights, banter, and perhaps a few heated debates about their favorite Gundam pilots and mobile suits.

    Billy is a seasoned fighting game player who has mastered the intricacies of Endless Duel’s combat system, while Erinn is a die-hard Gundam fan with an encyclopedic understanding of the series’ lore and mecha designs. Together, they bring a unique perspective to the discussion, blending gameplay analysis with a genuine appreciation for the source material. Their chemistry and friendly banter are sure to keep the conversation engaging and entertaining throughout the episode.

    Learn such things as:

    • Does anything good come along with giant robots?
    • Is this finally the game where having a plot of “Everyone fights” actually works?
    • How does Papa Roach play into any of this?
    • And so much more!

    You can find Billy nowhere online because he’s a hermit who hides out in those secret places of the internet that only we know about.

    You can find Erinn inside the laser that your cat is chasing, manically laughing because she’ll never get caught.

    If you want to be a guest on the show please check out the Be a A Guest on the Show page and let me know what you’re interested in.

    If you want to help support the show check out the Play Comics Patreon page or head over to the Support page if you want to go another route. You can also check out the Play Comics Merch Store.

    Play Comics is part of the Gonna Geek Network, which is a wonderful collection of geeky podcasts. Be sure to check out the other shows on Gonna Geek if you need more of a nerd fix.

    You can find Play Comics @playcomics.bsky.social on Bluesky, @playcomicscast on Twitter and in the Play Comics Podcast Fan Group on Facebook.

    A big thanks to Spawnography and Tooth and Nail for the promos today.

    Intro/Outro Music by Best Day, who thinks that a roomba is a robot.

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    45 mins
  • Outbreaks #3 with Will Robson
    May 13 2024

    Welcome to another thrilling episode of Play Comics, the only podcast where comics and video games collide with the force of a well-aimed zombie headshot! This week, we’re diving into the eerie, undead-infested waters of the Kickstarter campaign for Outbreaks, a comic series that’s stirring up more excitement than a horde of zombies at a brain buffet.

    Joining us in the studio is none other than the necromancer of narrative himself, Will Robson. Creator of Outbreaks, Will is here to share the spine-chilling secrets behind his latest creation. Think Black Mirror meets The Walking Dead—yes, it’s as cool as it sounds!

    So, grab your survival gear and a sturdy blunt object, because we’re about to crack open the crypt on what makes Outbreaks a must-back project on Kickstarter. Will’s going to spill the guts (figuratively speaking, of course) on everything from crafting a zombie anthology that could raise the dead to the ins and outs of crowdfunding your comic dreams into reality.

    Don’t miss this episode—it’s bound to be infectious!

    Learn such things as:

    • When is spooky season?
    • Do story arc lengths matter in an ongoing anthology?
    • When will we have to admit defeat and get a trade instead of single issues?
    • And so much more!

    You can find Will on Twitter, YouTube, TicTok, Instagram, @RobsinInk. You can also find other cool stuff at his website Speech Bubble Comics and show some monetary support through his Patreon page.

    If you want to be a guest on the show please check out the Be a A Guest on the Show page and let me know what you’re interested in.

    If you want to help support the show check out the Play Comics Patreon page or head over to the Support page if you want to go another route. You can also check out the Play Comics Merch Store.

    Play Comics is part of the Gonna Geek Network, which is a wonderful collection of geeky podcasts. Be sure to check out the other shows on Gonna Geek if you need more of a nerd fix.

    You can find Play Comics @playcomics.bsky.social on Bluesky, @playcomicscast on Twitter and in the Play Comics Podcast Fan Group on Facebook.

    Intro/Outro Music by Best Day, who is too scared to listen to this episode.

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    38 mins
  • X-Men Next Dimension with Lex W (Wednesday Toast)
    May 6 2024

    Brace yourselves comic connoisseurs and gaming geeks for an episode that will have you questioning reality itself! In this multiversal misadventure we delve into the depths of X-Men Next Dimension, a game that dared to challenge the boundaries of the comic book universe.

    But wait, there’s more! We’ve got a special guest star joining us on this cosmic crusade – the one and only Lex W from the Wednesday Toast podcast! Prepare to be dazzled by his wit, charm, and encyclopedic knowledge of all things mutant-related.

    As we navigate through the Operation Zero Tolerance storyline, we’ll uncover the secrets behind this dimension-hopping extravaganza. From mind-bending plot twists to jaw-dropping gameplay mechanics, no stone will be left unturned in our quest for truth, justice, and the ultimate gaming experience.

    So grab your controllers, strap on your adamantium seatbelts, and get ready for a wild ride through the annals of X-Men history. This episode is sure to leave you questioning your own reality – or at least wondering why you didn’t invest in a Cerebro helmet sooner.

    Excelsior, true believers! The adventure awaits!

    Learn such things as:

    • HOLY CRAP THEY CAN BASE A GAME ON A SPECIFIC COMIC RUN?!
    • Is it a sequel if nobody knows it’s a sequel?
    • How did I time this episode so well with X-Men 97?
      • Just kidding, you won’t learn that because I don’t know either!
    • And so much more!

    You can find Lex on Twitter, Threads, and Instagram @wednesdaypull. And of course there’s always Wednesday Toast on Twitter or Spotify. You should listen to that, it’s fun.

    If you want to be a guest on the show please check out the Be a A Guest on the Show page and let me know what you’re interested in.

    If you want to help support the show check out the Play Comics Patreon page or head over to the Support page if you want to go another route. You can also check out the Play Comics Merch Store.

    Play Comics is part of the Gonna Geek Network, which is a wonderful collection of geeky podcasts. Be sure to check out the other shows on Gonna Geek if you need more of a nerd fix.

    You can find Play Comics @playcomics.bsky.social on Bluesky, @playcomicscast on Twitter and in the Play Comics Podcast Fan Group on Facebook.

    A big thanks to It’s Probably (not) Aliens and the Stealth Hammer Kickstarter campaign for the promos today.

    Intro/Outro Music by Best Day, whose favorite X-Man is Deadpool.

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    35 mins
  • Comics are Dying with Louis Southard
    Apr 29 2024

    Gather round comic fans and crowdfunding enthusiasts for a tale of epic proportions! In this episode of Play Comics we dive headfirst into the wild world of Comics are Dying, a comics history anthology that’s taking Zoop by storm. And who better to guide us through this saga than the mastermind behind it all, Louis Southard?

    Join us as we explore the highs and lows of running a successful crowdfunding campaign, from crafting the perfect pitch to navigating the treacherous waters of stretch goals. Louis shares his insider secrets, from the importance of a well-timed GIF to the power of a well-placed pun.

    But that’s not all! We’ll also delve into the fascinating world of Comics are Dying itself, uncovering the stories behind the stories. From the golden age of comics to the rise of the graphic novel, this anthology has it all. And with Louis at the helm, you know it’s going to be a wild ride.

    So what are you waiting for? Grab your comic books, your crowdfunding tips, and your best dad jokes, and join us for an unforgettable episode of Play Comics!

    Learn such things as:

    • What kind of crazy person wants to work with 100 different artists on a single project?
    • How do you decide what is important enough to go in a history of something so cool?
    • Does anyone else think it’s weird that Chris likes seeing old ads?
    • And so much more!

    You can find the guest on Twitter @louisjsouthard, on Instagram @louissouthard, his website LouisSouthard.com, and of course check out the Zoop campaign for Comics are Dying.

    If you want to be a guest on the show please check out the Be a A Guest on the Show page and let me know what you’re interested in.

    If you want to help support the show check out the Play Comics Patreon page or head over to the Support page if you want to go another route. You can also check out the Play Comics Merch Store.

    Play Comics is part of the Gonna Geek Network, which is a wonderful collection of geeky podcasts. Be sure to check out the other shows on Gonna Geek if you need more of a nerd fix.

    You can find Play Comics @playcomics.bsky.social on Bluesky, @playcomicscast on Twitter and in the Play Comics Podcast Fan Group on Facebook.

    Intro/Outro Music by Best Day, who is not dying, as far as I know.

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    50 mins
  • Savage Wizard #2 with Lesly Julien
    Apr 22 2024

    Read transcript

    Welcome back, fellow comic crusaders, to another electrifying episode of Play Comics, where we dive headfirst into the colorful world of comic book adventures! Today, we’re donning our wizard hats, sharpening our wands, and preparing to unleash the mystical mayhem of Savage Wizard #2!

    In this spellbinding installment, join your trusty host, Chris, as he delves deep into the arcane depths of this fantastical comic series. But hold onto your enchanted broomsticks because this isn’t your average wand-waving wizardry! We’re talking about a tale that’s as wild and unpredictable as a magical mishap in a potion shop!

    And guess what? We’ve got a special guest gracing our airwaves today: none other than the Savage Wizard series co-creator and current writer, Lesly Julien! Brace yourselves for a wizardly wisdom overload as Lesly spills the mystical beans on what it takes to craft a spellbinding comic adventure!

    But wait, there’s more! We’re not just here to chat about mystical mischief; we’re also diving into the magical realm of Kickstarter campaigns! That’s right, folks—Savage Wizard #2 is conjuring up some serious crowdfunding magic, and we’re here to give you the inside scoop on how you can join the spellbinding journey!

    So grab your spellbooks, summon your familiars, and get ready for a podcast episode that’s hotter than a dragon’s breath and wackier than a wizard’s wand malfunction! Tune in and let’s embark on a fantastical adventure through the pages of Savage Wizard #2!

    Also stick around through the end to hear about another great Kickstarter campaign, Stealth Hammer #3!

    Learn such things as:

    • How do you survive basically your entire creative team having to back out of a project?
    • What spell does Kickstarter use to keep creators coming back?
    • Where did all the colors go?
    • And so much more!

    You can find on Twitter @LesWrite, Instagram @les_write, and his website Les Write. And of course be sure to check out the Kickstarter campaign for Savage Wizard #2.

    If you want to be a guest on the show please check out the Be a A Guest on the Show page and let me know what you’re interested in.

    If you want to help support the show check out the Play Comics Patreon page or head over to the Support page if you want to go another route. You can also check out the Play Comics Merch Store.

    Play Comics is part of the Gonna Geek Network, which is a wonderful collection of geeky podcasts. Be sure to check out the other shows on Gonna Geek if you need more of a nerd fix.

    You can find Play Comics @playcomics.bsky.social on Bluesky, @playcomicscast on Twitter and in the Play Comics Podcast Fan Group on Facebook.

    Intro/Outro Music by Best Day, who only rolls Nat 1’s.

    Support Play Comics by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/playcomics

    Check out our podcast host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free with no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-89f00a for 40% off for 4 months, and support Play Comics.

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    35 mins
  • Popeye 2 with Matt Storm (“Fun” and Games, Screen Snark)
    Apr 15 2024

    Ahoy, landlubbers! Prepare to set sail on a high-seas adventure through the annals of gaming history, as we dive into the depths of the 1992 Game Boy classic, Popeye 2. This episode we've got a special guest aboard – Matt Storm from the podcasts "Fun" and Games and Screen Snark. They're a veritable treasure trove of knowledge when it comes to all things retro gaming, so batten down the hatches and get ready for a wild ride!

    In this episode we'll explore the pixelated world of Popeye, the legendary sailor man who's always ready to dish out a can of spinach-fueled justice. From navigating treacherous levels to battling Bluto's dastardly schemes, we'll uncover the secrets behind this beloved game that captured the hearts of gamers and comic book fans alike.

    But that's not all, me hearties! We'll also delve into the rich history of the Popeye comics, tracing their roots back to the early 20th century and exploring how they've influenced pop culture over the decades. Prepare to be regaled with tales of Olive Oyl's escapades, Wimpy's insatiable hunger for hamburgers, and Popeye's iconic catchphrases that have become part of the cultural lexicon.

    So grab your Game Boy, load up on spinach, and get ready to set sail on an adventure that will have you laughing, reminiscing, and maybe even singing a few sea shanties along the way. Anchors aweigh, mateys!

    Support Play Comics by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/playcomics

    Check out our podcast host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free with no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-89f00a for 40% off for 4 months, and support Play Comics.

    Read transcript

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    45 mins
  • Gunpunch with Fernando Pinto
    Apr 8 2024

    Read transcript

    Strap in, true believers, because we’re about to dive headfirst into the wild world of Kickstarter campaigns and comic book mayhem! This week on Play Comics, we’re taking a look at the Kickstarter for the action-packed graphic novel Gunpunch, and we’ve got the creator himself, Fernando Pinto, here to give us the inside scoop.

    Fernando Pinto, the mastermind behind Gunpunch, is joining us to share the gritty details of bringing this high-octane comic to life. From the explosive action sequences to the sharply-drawn characters, this guy has poured his heart and soul (and probably a few gallons of coffee) into making Gunpunch a must-read for any fan of the medium.

    The Gunpunch Kickstarter campaign is in full swing thanks to Rocketship Entertainment, and let me tell you, it’s a wild ride. Backer rewards range from digital copies of the comic to limited-edition prints that will have your fellow comic nerds green with envy. And if you’re feeling particularly generous, there’s even an opportunity to get your face immortalized as a character in the story. Talk about a power move!

    So, what are you waiting for? Hop on board the Gunpunch hype train and get ready for a wild ride! With Fernando Pinto at the helm, you know this comic is going to be a knockout. Strap on your utility belt, grab your favorite snacks, and get ready to dive headfirst into the world of Gunpunch. It’s going to be a punchy good time, true believers!

    Learn such things as:

    • How do you go about naming characters anyway?
    • Is it OK to punch people with your gun hands if you’re having a bad day?
    • Are those aliens really that bad?
    • And so much more!

    You can find Fernando on Twitter @NandoPintoArt, on Instagram @minombreesfernandopinto, his LinkTree @FernandoPintoArt and FernandoPintoArt.com.

    If you want to be a guest on the show please check out the Be a A Guest on the Show page and let me know what you’re interested in.

    If you want to help support the show check out the Play Comics Patreon page or head over to the Support page if you want to go another route. You can also check out the Play Comics Merch Store.

    Play Comics is part of the Gonna Geek Network, which is a wonderful collection of geeky podcasts. Be sure to check out the other shows on Gonna Geek if you need more of a nerd fix.

    You can find Play Comics @playcomics.bsky.social on Bluesky, @playcomicscast on Twitter and in the Play Comics Podcast Fan Group on Facebook.

    Intro/Outro Music by Best Day, who dreams of having his hands be machines. But his machines would be of the Rube Goldberg variety.

    Support Play Comics by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/playcomics

    Check out our podcast host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free with no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-89f00a for 40% off for 4 months, and support Play Comics.

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    31 mins