Game & Watch with Aaron & James

"If I let you go, do you think that you can fly?" Before getting lost in New York or carrying the One Ring to Mordor, Macaulay Culkin and Elijah Wood starred in this family-oriented psychological thriller. Do the young stars have the acting chops to navigate such disturbing material? Who is Mr. Highway? Is this an early 90’s gem, or a misfire that should be lost to time? Listen in as Aaron and James discuss, but maybe check on your kids first?

It’s time to draft again! The year is 2003 and we’re still in the first half of the sixth generation of video game consoles. The GameCube is hot, the Game Boy Advance is arguably even hotter. and the Xbox is … also there. The entire Game Boy crew is back to draft the best team they can. Who will walk away triumphant and who will walk away with regret? Listen and find out!

“Hold on to your butts." What can Aaron and James say about this first entry in one of the biggest franchises on the planet that other people haven’t said before? Probably not a lot, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have a fun conversation while doing it! Join them as they wrap up Sam Neill month (may he rest in peace) with the film that put him on the map for blockbuster movie audiences!

“I have to. He wrote me this way.” Take a little drive with Aaron and James to the quaint town of Hobb’s End, where the children are totally fine and there are zero tentacled beings from the cosmic otherworld. In honor yet again of the late, great Sam Neill, your hosts explore another of his roles. They'll discuss the film’s successes and failures in tackling Lovecraftian horror, among many other things. This isn't an episode to miss.

“I can't exist by myself because I'm afraid of myself, because I'm the maker of my own evil.” This week, Aaron and James attempt to make sense of this enigmatic cult film. The filming process took a psychological toll on its lead actors and it’s not difficult to see why, but what resulted is unquestionably an intriguing and unpredictable ride that delivers its themes of doppelgangers and divorce with manic energy. For a film that makes many bold choices, tune in to find out which ones land and which ones don’t.

“Don’t you believe me?” Join Aaron and James as they fondly remember screen icon Sam Neill in this harrowing nautical thriller. Can a film with only three cast members work? How does the film compare to the original novel? Why does Billy Zane keep getting typecast as villains at sea? Listen to hear the answers to these and other hard-hitting questions!

"And that will lead to another clue, and that will lead to another clue!" We may live in a politically divided world, but we can hopefully all agree that Nicolas Cage running around solving riddles and searching for treasure is something everyone can enjoy at least a little bit. Join Aaron and James this week as they discuss the highs and lows of Disney’s treasure hunting adventure. They’ll talk about why this movie might have been as popular as it was, identify more-than-coincidental similarities between this movie and some popular early-2000s novels, and contemplate why Diane Kruger isn’t more appreciated. Get a clue, and listen up!

“We're quite a hit. A big hit with Earth, the star so full of stuff. A star now apparently full of our fans!” Sequels are a tricky endeavor. How do you keep things fresh while maintaining the spirit of what came before? Join Aaron and James as they discuss this cult sequel in the delightfully strange Katamari series. Does it warrant the praise lavished on it by fans, or is it just a rolling mess of Japanese kookiness? Listen for yourself and decide!

“You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig.” Get out the spaghetti, because this week Aaron and James tackle one of their favorite films and one of the most iconic Westerns of all time. From the brilliant direction to the superb score, this ain’t your American Western. But amidst all the incredible imagery and sounds, do all its themes work? Does it justify its length? Only one way to find out! (And no, it’s not “Google those questions.” It’s “Listen to this episode, you goof!”)

“Love won't save you, Padmé. Only my new powers can do that.” Whether you sighed reading that line or not, there’s no arguing the George Lucas didn’t save some of his best prequel ideas for this trilogy capper. Join Aaron, James, and a returning special guest as they find the good amongst the dark side of this Star Wars entry. If you’re a fan of the series or not, there’s something for you in this episode. From the conclusion of Anakin’s arc to the brilliance of Order 66 to the ever-maligned writing, there is no shortage of discussion to be found here. Enjoy this episode, we hope you will.

"Using a shovel as a weapon... what a groundbreaking idea!" Aaron, James, and a special returning guest conclude Mega May with a 2D platforming classic that wears its Mega Man influences on its sleeve, but stands amongst the best indie games in its own right. You will dig this episode! (Shovel pun.)

“Once the airport is mine, I'll control the city!” Mega May continues this week with the ‘90s American animated adaptation of Mega Man! Join Aaron and James as they explore three select episodes of the show and explore their ‘90s charm, middling animation, unintentional comedy, loving homages to the game series, and more.

"Jack in!! MegaMan, Execute!" Mega May continues this week with an entry in Capcom’s tactical role-playing spin-off series. While Aaron.exe and James.exe think this game might have succeeded a bit more in the early 2000s than in today’s gaming era, there are still some high highs to discuss among some of the very low lows. Get your cyber phones ready (or whatever cyber equipment you use to listen to cyber audio recordings) because you’re in for a cyber good time!

"X, you shouldn't expect to defeat him, he is designed to be a war machine. Remember, you have not reached full power yet. If you use all the abilities you were designed with, you should become stronger... You may even become as powerful as I am." In his latest adventure, the heroic X faces off against Gaming Backlog Man, Completionist Man, and a special returning guest. Can X overcome his toughest challenge yet: proving to the world that this one has earned its place in the pantheon of great games? And has James gotten any better at the series in the last four years? These questions answered and more in this week's episode as your hosts kick off Mega May!

"I missed that Raccoon City hospitality." This week, Aaron and James decide if Capcom nailed the latest entry in this 30-year-old survival horror series. Despite its popularity, critical acclaim, and efforts to honor Resident Evil's past does it live up to the hype? And where do Aaron and James rank it compared to other top contenders from the franchise? Listen and find out!

It's finally time. It's finally Prime. This week, Aaron and James tackle the pod's most requested* game. One of the best examples of Nintendo bringing one of its series to 3D and one of the best Gamecube games to boot, this classic has aged exceptionally well. Join your hosts as they explore the beautifully-detailed world of Tallon IV, laud the progression and environmental storytelling, and so much more. James might even go on a rant or two about critics of the scan visor! (*by James)

“Checkpoints go up at fifteen miles. Your fugitive's name is Dr. Richard Kimble. Go get him!” This week, Aaron, James, and a very special returning guest discuss a bonafide 90s classic! There’s a lot to gush about when it comes to this thriller - from the snappy dialogue and stellar supporting cast to the incomparable duo of Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones at the height of their acting powers. Never seen the movie? Well, shame on you! But take a listen and hear what makes it so special!

It’s time for another Game Pitch Challenge! (And no, we couldn’t think of a better title!) This week, Aaron and James each pick a game or series the other hasn't played and give their best pitch to the other to give it a shot. James starts things off by explaining how the indie gem Tunic is perfect for Aaron’s action/adventure/puzzle tastes. Then, Aaron leverages James’ love of the Persona series to try and convince him to play Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne. Whether you’ve played these games or not, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss!

“SAY YOU WANT TO LIVE!! WE ARE YOUR FRIENDS!” In honor of season two of Netflix’s questionable adaptation of everyone’s favorite pirate crew, this week, Aaron and James do some swashbuckling rankings! How do the various sagas compare to each other? Which nakama are top tier and which are not worthy of a place on this legendary crew? And finally, listen to hear some thoughts on the season 2 premiere! Are we fans? WE ARE!

"Pokémon aren't meant to fight. Not like this." In the late 1990s, Pokémania was a genuine cultural force. Schoolyards were abuzz with rumors of how to catch Mew, game shops couldn’t stock booster packs of the trading card game fast enough, and this film would go on to be one of the highest grossing animated films of the decade. Join Aaron, James, and a special returning guest as they ask: Did it live up to the massive hype, and does it hold up all these years later? Enjoy this romp through Generation 1 nostalgia, and wait for the end to hear the boys discuss the 2026 Pokémon Presents! They might even say a word or two about Pikachu's Vacation!

"Cor blimey!" Join Aaron and James as they delve into what might be the best, most approachable entry into a legendary series whose contribution to the JRPG genre is unquestionable. What sets this series - and this game in particular - apart from the rest of the JRPG pack? Does the late, great Akira Toriyama’s design work compensate for safe, by-the-book RPG mechanics, story, and gameplay? Or does personality and charm make up for any shortcomings? Listen and find out!

“You owe me a pizza.” This week, Aaron, James, and a returning special guest tackle the first entry in the remake of one of the most beloved video games of all time. This is a game with divisive plot changes, newly-fleshed out characters, a completely revamped and modernized combat system, and oh so much nostalgia. How does the remake fare with each of these things? And how does the game challenge what it means to remake a classic? Listen in and find out!

The Game Boys (working title) are back for another fantasy draft! This week, the entire crew joins Aaron and James for another exciting draft year. From the release of the Gamecube to the PS2 asserting itself as a force to be reckoned with, this was truly a monumental year in gaming history. You can count on a few wild picks in this one, to be sure. Will your favorite games be selected? Only one way to find out! Unlike Vietnam, you'd be a fool to dodge THIS draft!

"The fifth thing is a mystery." This week, Aaron and James talk about a bad movie. Like, a really bad movie. We're talking about a real turd, here. End of blurb.

It’s 2026, which means that everyone’s favorite monster-collecting RPG series is turning 30! Join Aaron, James, and a group of returning guests for a roundtable discussion of the video games from this ultra-popular franchise. From the current state of the games, personal memories, and favorite entries to constructive criticisms and predictions for the future, there’s no facet of this creature-battling phenomenon we don’t discuss. Enjoy this freeform discussion of a media juggernaut that is truly near and dear to our hearts (well, almost all of us).

Another year has passed us by, and with it, a bunch of great games! Listen in as Aaron and James rank the top ten games they each played this year. They'll discuss disappointments, honorable mentions, surprise hits, and runaway favorites, all while dissecting both modern gaming trends and their own personal trends. And don't forget to listen until the end for some predictions for 2026. Enioy!

“Merry Christmas, Alfred. Good will toward men... and women.” This week, Aaron and James get into the holiday spirit by roaring about a wonderfully dark and playful entry in the Batman franchise with an equally-wonderful returning guest. From Michelle Pfeiffer’s iconic performance to the film’s expressionist vision of Gotham, no subject is left undiscussed. Say what you will about the film’s focus on the villains, that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to like. Hopefully you’ll feel so much yummier after listening!

"Are you out of your Vulcan mind?!" This week, join Aaron, James, and a returning special guest as they boldy go into the sci-fi action reboot of a beloved and groundbreaking franchise. Does the film succeed at walking the tightrope between Trekkie expectations and mainstream appeal? Do Star Trek films need a little Star Wars DNA, or perhaps the other way around? And how much lens flare is too much lens flare? Questions abound in this spirited discussion -- beam aboard and join in!

Yes, you read that correctly. This week, Aaron, James, and their camera crew venture off to an abandoned school in Japan to investigate the urban legend of a ghost that might have taken residence in one of the toilets. If you’re still reading, your hosts welcome you to accompany them on this journey, as this low-budget found footage pseudo-documentary is full of crazy twists and turns that, despite its flaws, are worth watching if not just to experience some of the more entertaining stereotypical elements of this brand of Japanese horror.

"In my restless dream, I see that town. Silent Hill. You promised you'd take me there again someday. But you never did. Well, I'm alone there now, in our "special place". Waiting for you." Armed with nothing but a plank of wood, Aaron and James are ready to confront the physical manifestation of their own psyches as they discuss an iconic horror game from a franchise that has had its ups and downs. They'll talk about the strengths and weaknesses of the remake relative to the 2001 original, including a detailed look at the atmosphere for which the game is renowned. And as usual they'll offer some inspired casting and director choices that (in their opinion) are superior to those of the forthcoming film adaptation.

"The Ruins held knowledge. We sold our souls for it. Altars built of concrete. Fed with blood and bone." This week, Aaron and James climb off their meat hooks and blast their way through cultists and eldritch horrors in this indie retro-inspired first-person shooter. Is this another Doom or Quake clone, or is there more meat to be found? Listen and find out! Or just play the game! Or buy the game, play it, and then listen! You've got options.

Your hosts have never been shy about professing their love for the Final Fantasy series and they aren't about to stop now. This week, Aaron and James invite two returning guests on to draft party members from one of their all-time favorite franchises. From DPS monsters to unbeatable black mages to summoners and healers, they draft some of the very best characters (and some surprises, too) from the very best the mainline series has to offer. Which characters will have the raw strength, magical powers, personality, humor -- and even sex appeal -- to warrant a spot in their parties? Listen in and find out!

"I am an appetite, nothing more." This week, Aaron and James start spooky season off with the 2024 Robert Eggers remake of a vampire classic. Join your hosts as they explore some of the acting and character choices, deviations from the original, and much more. What was Eggers' goal with remaking this movie? Does it earn the right to stand on its own? Does Nicholas Hoult play a cuck too often? These questions and more will (maybe) be answered!

Rating scales and gaming have gone hand in hand for as long as games have been around - but how much do they really mean? Join Aaron, James, and a returning guest as they discuss the idea of a “7 out of 10” game. What does that say about the game? The reviewer? Listen to find out the answers!

Play forever! This week, Aaron and James rapturously rave about a truly fantastic (and generously ample) compilation of 80s-inspired video games. There are arcade-style games here, RPGs, platformers, adventure games, strategy games, and even more to love here. Join in as your hosts break down the fictional lore behind this collection of games, talk about some of their current favorites, and on more than one occasion reflect in awe of the game’s abundance of creativity and design quality. It’s very likely you’ll find your next addiction among these 50 titles!

“This is a true story that happened in my town. So this one Wednesday is like a normal day for the whole school, but today was different. Every other class had all their kids, but Mrs. Gandy's room was totally empty. And do you know why? Because the night before, at 2:17 in the morning, every kid woke up, got out of bed, walked downstairs, and into the dark... and they never came back.” Need we say anything else? Enjoy!

“It’s tail time!” It certainly is tail time, folks. The time has come for Aaron and James to discuss a guilty pleasure, an icon of the mascot platformer era, and quite possibly the greatest video game of all time. Join Aaron as he’s dumbfounded by James’ shockingly extensive history with the game, after which your hosts dive into the gritty details of the Media Dimension and all the levels it has to offer. They also take some time to reflect on the game’s ironic (and unironic) fanbase and its place in 3D platformer history. Let’s hope Aaron and James decide to keep the podcast going after this, because it’s awfully tempting to end on a masterpiece.

"I'm literally a fool, what's your excuse?" Join Aaron and James this week as they discuss the massively successful poker-themed roguelite. They break down the basic mechanics and then dive into the details that make this game so addicting. Then, stay tuned as they jump into their personal likes and ... more likes. And stick around until the end to hear their favorite jokers along with some pro tips on how to maximize your score!

“Rebellions are built on hope.” Having decided to take a break from covering some of the lesser loved (or fully hated) Star Wars movies, Aaron and James are joined this week by a very special returning guest to discuss one of the much better entries in the franchise. Join them as they go in depth on the performances, characters, pacing, nostalgia, and some of the more controversial moments. Heck, Aaron might have some controversial thoughts of his own. But say what you will about this entry, one thing’s for sure: Ben Mendelsohn must be starving because he devoured every last bit of scenery.

We’ve seen that movie adaptations of video games can work - or, at least be financially successful. The reverse is true as well - as evidenced by many of the classic 90s hits like Goldeneye 007. But what makes adaptations work in either direction? Join Aaron, James, and a special returning guest as they discuss adaptation successes and failures, and what adaptations they’re each dying to see. Enjoy!

“Should pale death, with treble dread, make the ocean caves our bed, God who hears the surges roll deign to save our suppliant soul.” This week, Aaron and James are your wickies, guiding you to the shores of madness. Join them as they gleefully spill the beans on what they think of Robert Eggers’ multivalent psychological horror film, from its meticulous construction to its masterful atmosphere. They explore its use of marine lore, Lovecraftian themes, and not-so-subtle sexual subtext. Try not to lose your mind along the way.

Yazoo! This week, Aaron and James discuss one of the many, many '90s 3D platformers that came (and went) in the wake of Super Mario 64. How does this one measure up to others in its tier? Heck, how does it measure up to other reptile-based platformers??? Only one way to find out!

The draft is back! After a bit of a hiatus, Aaron and James bring some familiar voices back to draft games from two, count 'em, TWO pivotal years in gaming history. The transition to 3D graphics and the advent of new genres changed the gaming world forever, but there were also plenty of incredible 16-bit games that closed out the previous era. Listen and find out who took your favorites!

Aaron and James give their first impressions of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct and unpack their hopes and expectations for the next generation of Nintendo. Enjoy!

"There's one thing a Saiyan always keeps: his pride!" This week, Aaron and James wade into the considerably large pool of video games from everyone’s favorite martial arts anime! Listen as they talk about the numerous series and one-offs this franchise has to offer, as well as personal experiences with the games and franchise as a whole. Thank you for everything, Toriyama-san!

"Hey, Pam, remember when I said this car was death proof? Well, that wasn't a lie. This car is 100% death proof. Only to get the benefit of it, honey, you REALLY need to be sitting in my seat." It’s been a long time coming, but this week Aaron and James finally tackle a film from the legendary director (and terrible actor), Quentin Tarantino! Does this complete cut of the Grindhouse feature rise to the lofty heights the famed filmmaker is known for? Or does it get bogged down in his tendency for overindulgence? Or perhaps a little bit of both? Get ready for some sexy, gory, exploitative fun, and whatever you do, don’t be going left!

Join Aaron and James this week as they debut a new special episode format: the Game Pitch Challenge! Each of the hosts picks a game or series the other hasn't played (and might even be purposefully avoiding) and gives their enthusiastic reasons why the other should check it out! Aaron gives James a tour of the hit franchise Monster Hunter, and then James gives the 411 on the much-loved Yakuza/Like a Dragon series. Will minds be changed? Can gaming passion be adequately explained? And how does Joel Edgerton fit into all of this? The only way to find out is to listen!

“I went to sleepaway camp so long ago that it was the Stone Age. No, but seriously, it wasn't the Stone Age... it was the Ice Age! No, really, it was the Stone Age.” Join Aaron and James this week on a trip back in time to a fictionalized 1981 summer camp romp! Director David Wain, numerous members of The State, and MANY other funny people combine talents to pull off what might the one of the funniest, most quotable, silliest cult comedies of all time. Listen in to catch our thoughts on the best gags and more!

“Many monarchs have come and gone. One drowned in poison, another succumbed to flame. Still another slumbers in a realm of ice. Not one of them stood here, as you do now. You, conqueror of adversities. Give us your answer.” Aaron and James are joined again by a special guest to wrap up their discussion of an underappreciated entry in the Dark Souls series. This week, they explore the world and lore of Drangleic in detail -- its areas, its occupants, and its ties to the first game. Which areas of the game do they find most (and least) fascinating? Which boss approaches are the most painful? How good are the DLCs? These questions and many more will be answered!

"Bearer of the curse…Seek souls. Larger, more powerful souls. Seek the King, that is the only way. Lest this land swallow you whole… As it has so many others." For this momentous episode, Aaron and James are far from crestfallen as they are joined by a very special returning guest to discuss an entry in one of their all-time favorite video game series. A divisive game, it is not without its detractors, but you will not find any of them here. Join them as they discuss their histories with the game, its development, its gameplay, design, and themes, and, most importantly, why they chose to cover it instead of the other entries in the series. Then, next week they’ll dive into the game’s story and lore, and walkthrough the game in detail.