Gamer’s Advocate

Kom is still busy so Banana and Legion will be discussing Baldur's Gate again! We dive into more details of the series and compare the original games to the most recent entry, and even offer some of our ideas for what could have been for Baldur's Gate 3. If you love all things Baldur's Gate, this is the episode for you! Feel free to weigh in with your own comments!

Due to Kom's busy schedule, we unfortunately had to record another episode without him, and you know what that means: Baldur's Gate! This episode looks at the ways that Baldur's Gate 3 carries over some of the core elements of the first two games. For those just getting into Baldur's Gate with its most recent game, you may enjoy learning about the parallels from the earlier entries in the series. Feel free to weigh in with your comments!

--SPOILER HEAVY EPISODE-- Join Kom, Banana, and Legion as they dig deep and share their most emotional moments. Feel free to take advantage of their vulnerability, and bully them in the comments! Or just share your own tear-jerking moments.

*Major Spoiler Warnings for Baldur's Gate 3 in this Episode* In a very special episode of the Gamer's Advocate, Banana and Legion enjoy the company of guest, ItsMaffie! Feel free to share your opinions in the comments and check out Maffie's Twitch page

The Gamer's Advocate team tackles this year's Game Awards. They offer their votes with a little insight into why they voted the way we did and what they hope will be the impact of these awards. AMKomnenos, Banana, and Legion dig into each category (with a few exceptions) and try to find something meaningful behind all the pageantry and advertising for future games. Feel free to weigh in in the comments with your votes and what you're looking forward to from the game awards! #GamingPodcast #GamingDiscussion #PodcastCrew #thegameawards

*Major Spoiler Warnings for Dispatch in this Episode* In a very special episode of the Gamer's Advocate, Banana and Legion enjoy the company of guest, ItsMaffie! She offers her industry insight on video games with a special focus on Dispatch. Join in the discussion as we take a look at what it is about Dispatch that seems to have caught so much attention in the gaming sphere. Feel free to share your opinions in the comments!

Ready to feast on some nostalgia? 🦃🎮 In this special edition of our podcast, hosts AMKomnenos, BananaHammockRepublic, and Legion sit down to carve into their earliest gaming memories—from pixel-perfect magic to those “did the console just eat my save file?” moments. We’re talking retro consoles, first gaming heartbreaks, childhood triumphs, and the games that made us fall in love with the hobby in the first place. As we gather around the virtual table, we can’t help but feel extra thankful for the incredible moments gaming has given us over the years. After all… what better time than Thanksgiving to appreciate the games that stuffed our childhoods full of joy? So pull up a chair, grab a plate of leftovers, and join us as we give thanks-for-gaming and share stories that'll warm your heart more than pumpkin pie fresh out of the oven.

Join our AMKomnenos and Legion for a quick discussion of the latest announcement from Valve regarding the Steam Machine! We take a look at the specs of the new console, the design of the new controller, and the role these new products can play in gaming. This leads to a great discussion of the role that Valve and tech in general plays in the gaming industry. Feel free to join in the discussion with your comments! Are you looking forward to the new Steam machine or controller?

Join our AMKomnenos, BananaHammockRepublic, and Legion as we look back at games we never got around to finishing. We (eventually) discuss games that just couldn't hold our interest, games that were just too hard, and all the other reasons we had for leaving games un-finished. Sometimes it's a mechanic in the game, sometimes it's the community surrounding the game, and sometimes it's just the wrong place, wrong time, but we hold ourselves accountable for all the games we never completed and discuss what it even means to complete a game. Feel free to let us know the games you never got to finish in the comments!

Join Banana and Legion for a discussion of Dragon Age companions. We continue the pattern of evaluating BioWare companions in this initial discussion of the first 3 companions we meet in Dragon Age: Origins. We take a look at Alistair, Morrigan, and our trusty Mabari hound in this episode. This conversation will be overwhelming from our memory of playing through these games in the very distant past of our youth, so bear with us. Feel free to weigh in with your own comments on these companions!

Join our resident doctors, (Disclaimer: No one on this podcast is a medical professional.) AMKomnenos, Banana, and Legion as they dive into the world of the white mage and discuss healing in video games. They take a look at the various ways video games have tried to reconcile the time-sensitive need of video games with the slow, drawn-out process of healing (especially for these old guys). Do we want realism in games when it comes to healing, or are we willing to accept a deus ex machina for the sake of keeping the pace?

Join AMKomnenos, Banana, and Legion, as they tackle the concept of tutorials in gaming. Since tutorials are often the first experience gamers get with a new game, it's important for developers to get it right. Which games got it right, and which ones blew it? What makes for a good tutorial? Feel free to weigh in with your comments and let us know what games stood out in their tutorials! 

In this episode of our gaming podcast, hosts BananaHammockRepublic, AMKomnenos, and Legion dive into the timeless games that have kept us hooked for years. From the strategic depth of Civilization to the epic worlds of Warcraft, we explore what keeps us coming back—whether it’s the thrill of conquest, nostalgia-fueled campaigns, or the endless replayability that defines these classics. Join the conversation as we share personal stories, favorite moments, and why some games never really leave our hard drives. 👉 Tune in, relax, and let’s talk about the games that won’t let go.

In this episode, AMKomnenos, BananaHammockRepublic, and Legion discuss the idea of consequences in video games. Some games definitely do a better job of respecting a player's decisions, and implementing consequences for those decisions into the story of the game. We take a look at the games that did it well, and those that dropped the ball and made player decisions feel meaningless. What games did you feel did consequences well, or which games really blew it? Let us know in the comments!

In this episode, AMKomnenos, BananaHammockRepublic, and Legion sit down to discuss the role of magic in video games. We dig into the different ways of describing magical systems and the way an approach to magic can influence the available methods of storytelling. Feel free to share your favorite magical spells or systems in the comments!

In this episode, BananaHammockRepublic and Legion sit down to share their personal gaming habits and routines that get them locked into the gamer zone. From quirky rituals to tried-and-true setups, the hosts break down what helps them stay focused, energized, and ready for long sessions. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore grinder, you’ll find some relatable—and maybe even surprising—insights into the life of dedicated gamers. Please share your opinions in the comments!

Join BananaHammockRepublic and Legion as they dive into Icewind Dale and shine a light on what made this classic RPG so memorable. From its atmospheric setting to the tactical combat and unforgettable soundtrack, the hosts share their favorite aspects and why the game still holds up today. They even float the idea that maybe, just maybe, Larian Studios’ next project should be a return to Icewind Dale.   Whether you’re a retro fan or a next-gen player, this discussion has something for you. Feel free to share your opinions in the comments!

Join Bananahammockrepublic, AMKomnenos, and Legion as we dive into some of the best games across console generations—from the early days of the PS1 and original Xbox all the way to today’s powerhouse systems. We’ll revisit classics, highlight hidden gems, and debate which titles truly defined their era. Whether you’re a retro fan or a next-gen player, this discussion has something for you. Feel free to share your opinions in the comments!

Join AMKomnenos, BananaHammockRepublic, and Legiongrey for a special episode of the Gamers Advocate podcast. We take a break from our usual gaming discussion to briefly look into the Stop Killing Games initiative and the conversation surrounding the effort to ensure gaming is a consumer friendly industry. Feel free to share your opinions in the comments!

Join BananaHammockRepublic and Legiongrey in this Kom-less discussion of the games we've been playing recently. We take a little break from our usual attempts to provide analysis of gaming and the industry and just talk about the games we're enjoying. Feel free to share the games you've been playing in the comments!

Join AMKomnenos, BananaHammockRepublic, and Legiongrey in this episode, dive into the fascinating world of learning curves in gaming. From the steep challenges of complex strategy titles to the pick-up-and-play ease of casual games, the hosts break down how different games teach — and test — their players. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting out, join the conversation and share your own experiences with learning curves in the comments!

Join AMKomnenos, BananaHammockRepublic, and Legiongrey for another episode of the Gamer's Advocate podcast. This episode will be a top 10 list of games we think that all gamers should play with a focus specifically on games that will be approachable. These games will be easy to pick up for new players whether they are new to the genre or new to gaming in general, so if you're looking for new games to try or you're not sure where to start with a genre that you might enjoy, check the list out! And feel free to share your feedback in the comments!

Join AMKomnenos, BananaHammockRepublic, and Legiongrey for another episode of the Gamer's Advocate podcast. This episode will focus on the topic of romance (and all the less accurate synonyms for romance) in video games. We'll take a look at games that included, for better or worse, a romance arc to supplement the gaming experience. Feel free to weigh in with your own takes on video game romance in the comments!

Join AMKomnenos, BananaHammockRepublic, and Legiongrey for another episode of the Gamer's Advocate podcast. This episode will focus on the topic of romance (and all the less accurate synonyms for romance) in video games. We'll take a look at games that included, for better or worse, a romance arc to supplement the gaming experience. Feel free to weigh in with your own takes on video game romance in the comments!

oin AMKomnenos, BananaHammockRepublic, and Legiongrey for another episode of the Gamer's Advocate podcast. This episode will focus on our favorite games throughout our experience. In no particular order, we'll discuss various games that have lingered with us over the years and hold a special place in the pantheon of gaming across consoles and genres. Feel free to weigh in with your favorite games, or let us know why we're wrong about our favorites!

Join BananaHammockRepublic and Legion as they take a quick, thoughtful dive into the personalities, backgrounds, and motivations of three standout companions in Baldur’s Gate 3: Halsin, Jaheira, Minsc, and Minthara. They'll be discussing what makes these characters unique and compelling — and while they’ll do their best to avoid major spoilers, a few light ones may slip through. Whether you're new to the game or just want a fresh perspective, this brief analysis will help you appreciate your party in a whole new way!

Join AMKomnenos, BananaHammockRepublic, and Legiongrey for another episode of the Gamer's Advocate podcast. This episode will focus on our favorite games throughout our experience. In no particular order, we'll discuss various games that have lingered with us over the years and hold a special place in the pantheon of gaming across consoles and genres. Feel free to weigh in with your favorite games, or let us know why we're wrong about our favorites!

In this episode of the podcast, Bananahammockrepublic and Legion dive into the delicious world of cooking and cooking mechanics in video games! From roasting mammoth meat in Survival Skyrim to grilling gourmet meals in Monster Hunter, we explore how different games turn food into a feature — whether for survival, buffs, or sheer style.

In this episode, BananaHammockRepublic, AMKomnenos, and Legion unpack the most chef’s kiss video game endings of all time. From tear-jerking goodbyes to “Wait... what just happened?” finales, our hosts take you on a wild ride through digital heartbreak, closure, and total narrative chaos. Did your favorite ending make the list? Or are we about to ruin it with our very scientific opinions? Starring: BananaHammockRepublic (he cries at credits), AMKomnenos (presses 'Skip' during cutscenes), and Legion (probably overanalyzes everything). Drop your favorite (or most ridiculous) ending in the comments—bonus points if it's from a game nobody remembers.

Join BananaHammockRepublic and Legion as they take a quick, thoughtful dive into the personalities, backgrounds, and motivations of three standout companions in Baldur’s Gate 3: Wyll, Karlach, and Gale. They'll be discussing what makes these characters unique and compelling — and while they’ll do their best to avoid major spoilers, a few light ones may slip through. Whether you're new to the game or just want a fresh perspective, this brief analysis will help you appreciate your party in a whole new way! 👉 Like & subscribe for more Baldur’s Gate 3 character breakdowns, lore, and discussions.

Get to know three of Baldur’s Gate 3’s most iconic companions in this quick character spotlight! Discover the fierce determination of Lae'zel, the mysterious faith of Shadowheart, and the dark charm of Astarion. Whether you're new to the game or brushing up before your next playthrough, this short synopsis gives you a glimpse into the complex personalities and backstories that make these characters unforgettable.

Join AMKomnenos, Banana, and Legion as we take a look at a heavily criticized practice within the gaming community: save scumming. If we're being honest with ourselves, we've all done it. Some of us might not want to admit it, others might feel no shame at all, but we've all loaded a save to avoid a consequence before. We discuss why save scumming is sometimes necessary, and why it shouldn't be quite so taboo for gamers.

Join AMKomnenos, Banana, and Legion as we take a look at the methods available to the gaming community to expand on a game after it has been released. Overwhelmingly, this will come in the form of mods found on various hosting platforms to make changes to anything from minor cosmetic changes to full campaigns that talented people have generated and shared with the community, but we also take a look at some other less common tools that developers give their player based to expand a game beyond its initial release like custom map creation.

Join Banana and Legion as we investigate a minigame that has in a very subtle way managed to sneak into many modern games: fishing! We take a look at many adventure games and RPGs that, while not exclusively devoted to fishing, do seem to incorporate fishing as a minigame or sidequest. We discuss games we appreciate for many reasons and the way the inclusion of fishing impacted our enjoyment of the game. Which games had the best minigames? Which games didn't get it right? How big was our biggest catch!

Step back into the storied world of the Sword Coast as we delve into the hidden lore scattered throughout Baldur’s Gate 1. In this immersive reading, Legion attempts to bring to life some of the rare, mysterious, and whimsical books found in chests, libraries, and dusty corners of the Forgotten Realms. Whether it’s tales of ancient empires, cryptic prophecies, or humorous local legends, these texts enrich the game world in ways often overlooked. Let the ambient music and rich narration transport you to Candlekeep, Beregost, and beyond.

Join Banana and Legion for a very special "Spring Cleaning" episode of the Gamer's Advocate podcast. Unfortunately, as this is an episode focused on clean things, Kom was unable to participate, but we do our best to push on and dig into the world of cleaning within video games. As fans of the genre, Legion and Banana offer their insight into what makes some of our favorite clean games so appealing for us, and how Banana could possibly appreciate them with such a filthy mouth!

🚀 Welcome aboard the S.S. Hot Takes where we’re ranking every Mass Effect companion based on vibes, trauma levels, and how likely they are to survive a group project. 💥 Will Garrus calibrate his way to S-tier? Is Jack still the queen of biotic breakdowns? Can anyone out-bro Wrex? We're talking space romances, walking red flags, angsty assassins, and enough existential dread to fuel a Reaper. 👀 🛸 Hit play, scream in the comments, and remember: there is no tier high enough for Mordin’s singing career. 🎤🧬

Join AMKomnenos, BananaHammockRepublic, and LegionGrey for the LOOOOOOOONG awaited conclusion to our Mass Effect companions tier list! We've finally released the discussion of the 3 companions that are introduced in the final installment of the trilogy. With only 3 entries in this episode, could there really be an S tier? Could there be an F tier? Could we stay on topic? Of course not! But we stay within Mass Effect at least. Feel free to weigh in with your own tier list in the comments!

Join AMKomnenos, Banana, and Legion as we tackle the topic of sequels in gaming. We dig into the video games that follow up on a story and build off it, and attempt to identify the games that really delivered with the continuation. Which sequels satisfied and which sequels let us down? How do spiritual successors and prequels fit in? Do we want to see any sequels that were never made? Have we played sequels that never should have been? And most importantly, how does Final Fantasy fit into this?

Join AMKomnenos, Banana, and Legion as we discuss memorable audio cues in our experiences with gaming. We attempt to recall those special soundbytes that can instantly take us back to a moment in time when we played some of our favorite games. Join us as we provide a (definitely not complete) list of those video game sounds that can define a game for us, and a handful of those sounds that can ruin a game. Feel free to share your own in the comments!

Join AMKomnenos, Banana, and Legion as we discuss relatable characters in video games. What is it that we find connects us to these characters? Can we relate to characters other than the main character, or even NPCs? Does a character need to be fleshed out for us to find something to identify with? Does the connection to a character even need to be major aspect of their personality? Join us for an investigation into the characters we've latched onto over the years, and feel free to offer your relatable characters!

We're celebrating episode 50 of the podcast with a collection of outtakes, bloopers, and general mishaps that we've encountered along the way. It should come as no surprise that over the course of recording 49 previous episodes, we've had to cut quite a great deal out of our episodes. We're sharing a lot of that cut content with you now! (And we promise it's not because we haven't recorded something new!)

Join AMKomnenos, Banana, and Legion as they discuss the impact that a game's length can have on the gameplay experience. Is there a universal cutoff for game time that qualifies as too long? Can a game be engaging enough that the actual play time doesn't matter? Does pacing affect how a long a game feels? Is game length more important for specific genres? Is your favorite game too long?

Join AMKomnenos, Banana, and Legion as they dig into a very pervasive concept within the video game community especially in regard to the game review process: comparison being the thief of joy. We discuss the trend within the gaming community to anticipate disappointment in new game releases, and the tendency to fall back on the "this isn't as good as the previous game" criticism. Does this same bias exist in other media? Do we encourage this behavior within the community? Do developers encourage it with their behavior?

Join AMKomnenos, Banana, and Legion as they dive into a major aspect of most of our favorite games: villains! What makes for a great villain? What makes a villain memorable or compelling? How do video games approach villains in a unique way? Is every villain just a hero with a different perspective? We discuss our most memorable and iconic villains and antagonists from the word of gaming (and a few of the ones that fell short).