Gameology

Attila and Mathew discuss the Mario game that improved upon everything in the original and cemented the plumber's role as the de-facto Platforming icon.

Inspired by the delightful traversal mechanics of Super Mario Odyssey, Attila and Mathew discuss who much traversal mechanics matter in other games.

Mathew and Attila look at the aspects of Super Mario Bros. 2 that made it into future games

So often, AI meant to assist the player ends up doing the complete opposite. Mathew and Attila discuss everything from rage-inducing Escort Quests to delightfully helpful invulnerable assistants in their discussion on friendly AI.

Mathew and Attila discuss the crucial design choices that led to Super Mario Bros. becoming the gold standard among platforming games

Should government legislation crack down on harmful game design practices?

Show NotesMario 64 brought the famous plumber into the 3rd dimension, what was gained and what was lost in the transition? Mathew and Attila discuss the 3D platformer that set the golden standard for years to come.

Mathew and Attila share their thoughts on the implications of incremental console updates.

Did you experience this Wii U gem? Mathew and Attila talk about everything from the aesthetics to the sound design of this stellar 3D Mario title.

Attila and Mathew discuss everything there was to love about this classic, as well as a few details which are not to their liking.

How does this playground game provide the basis the best tactical game-play experiences?

Game Feel is responsible from everything from making a control scheme feel responsive to making a death animation satisfying!

Mathew and Attila speculate on the design decisions of Breath of the Wild and look at where some of its most interesting features draw their inspiration.

With all the hate surrounding games having too much "hand-holding" what's the right way to share information with your players?

How are crazy Sequence Breaks and Memory re-writes even possible in the first place? Attila gives insight on the programming practices that gave rise to certain Speed-running tactics.

Mathew and Attila discuss the slippery legalities of "Crunch Time".

Are palette swaps nothing more than a development shortcut, or can they be used to bring visual cohesion to a game?

Checkpoints; the more the merrier? Mathew and Attila discuss how frequently checkpoints should occur, and where they should optimally be placed.

From the exceptional Loyalty Missions in Mass Effect to the mundane Fetch Quests in MMOs of years past, Side Quests provide some of the most and least memorable experiences in gaming.

Progression Systems keep players engaged, but wouldn't it be better if your motivation was to play the game for the sake of enjoying the actual experience, rather than just making a number go up?