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Welcome back, wrestling aficionados and gaming geeks, to another electrifying episode of Play Comics! This week, we’re diving headfirst into the ring with Ultimate MUSCLE: Legends vs New Generation on the GameCube—a game that packs more punches than a heavyweight championship bout and more laughs than a Kid Muscle training session.

We’re not tackling this muscle-bound madness alone. Joining us is none other than Doug Wood —an all-around comic connoisseur and arguably one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet on the internet. Seriously, if kindness were a wrestling move, Doug would be the undisputed champion.

In this episode we’ll explore how this game, based on the Ultimate Muscle anime (itself a continuation of the legendary Kinnikuman manga), brings the larger-than-life Choujins to your living room. Expect a whirlwind of cell-shaded animation, over-the-top wrestling moves, and a storyline that pits the old guard against the new generation in a battle for the ages.

So, lace up your boots, don your spandex, and get ready to rumble as we body slam our way through the quirks and charms of Ultimate MUSCLE: Legends vs New Generation. And remember, in the immortal words of Kid Muscle: “There’s a big thing called survival!”Continue Reading

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Welcome back, Super-fans and comic connoisseurs, to another electrifying episode of Play Comics! This week, we’re diving headfirst into the pixelated world of Superman: Shadow of Apokolips, the game that lets you don the cape and tights of the Last Son of Krypton himself. Released on the GameCube and PS2, this gem is based on the iconic Superman: The Animated Series, and trust us it’s more fun than a barrel of Kryptonite!

Joining us in the Fortress of Solitude is none other than Anthony Sytko from the podcast Capes on the Couch. Anthony’s here to help us dissect this game faster than a speeding bullet and to share his super-insights on what makes this title soar—or crash-land like a Kryptonian spaceship.

So grab your capes, tighten your spandex, and get ready for a supercharged episode that’s sure to leave you feeling more powerful than a locomotive. Whether you’re a fan of the animated series, a gaming guru, or just here for the witty banter, this episode has something for everyone. Up, up, and away!Continue Reading

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Welcome, fellow gamers and comic book aficionados, to another electrifying episode of Play Comics! This week, we’re diving headfirst into the fiery pits of Hell with Spawn in the Demon’s Hand, the 3D fighting game that brought Todd McFarlane’s iconic antihero to the Sega Dreamcast. Prepare for a wild ride as we explore the game’s demonic delights, from its hellish bosses to its chaotic Battle Royale mode.

Joining us on this infernal journey are none other than Peirce Lydon and George Marston from the podcast Spawnography. These two Spawn scholars will help us unravel the twisted tale of Al Simmons, the military operative turned hellspawn, and his quest for vengeance and redemption. Expect plenty of laughs, deep dives into Spawn lore, and maybe even a few hellish puns along the way.

So grab your chains, summon your necroplasmic powers, and get ready to battle through the underworld with us. It’s time to see if “Spawn in the Demon’s Hand” is a heavenly hit or a devilish dud!Continue Reading

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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.Continue Reading

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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.Continue Reading

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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!Continue Reading

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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!Continue Reading

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Welcome to another spine-tingling, joystick-wiggling episode of Play Comics, where the pixels meet the page and the game controllers are always at risk of being thrown in excitement or frustration. This week we’re diving into the dark cobwebbed corners of the gaming world to unearth the 1992 classic The Addams Family, a game that dared to ask “What if we took a beloved, macabre family and turned their life into a platforming adventure?” Based on the 1991 film of the same name, this game sprawled across the NES, SNES, Genesis, Master System, Game Gear, and Game Boy, proving that no console was safe from its kooky, spooky charm.

In this episode we’re thrilled to welcome back the illustrious Adam Williamson, a man whose knowledge of games is only rivaled by his ability to survive encounters with the supernatural—or at least supernatural-themed video games. Adam, who last graced us with his presence in a bodyslammin’ discussion on WWF No Mercy, returns from the depths of the gaming archives to help us navigate the twisted halls of the Addams’ mansion.

Prepare for a journey where every jump is a leap of faith (into a pit of who-knows-what), every enemy is as bizarre as an Addams family member, and the only thing scarier than the game’s difficulty is the thought of turning it off before finishing. Will Gomez find his beloved family members, or will he be doomed to wander the pixelated corridors forever? Join us as we explore the mystery, the humor, and the sheer Addams-ness of The Addams Family game.

So tighten your seatbelts, adjust your monocles, and make sure your hand (Thing, is that you?) is firmly attached to your wrist. It’s going to be a wild ride through the Addams Family estate, where the only guarantee is laughter, nostalgia, and maybe, just maybe, a newfound appreciation for games that make you want to pull your hair out—in the most delightful way possible.Continue Reading

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Welcome to another thrilling episode of Play Comics, where we dive into the pixelated playgrounds of our favorite comic book characters and the games that bring them to life. Today, we’re dusting off our PS2 controllers and delving into the dark and mysterious world of Shadow Man 2econd Coming. Released in 2002, this game promised a spine-chilling adventure, but did it deliver the voodoo-infused essence of its comic book counterpart?

Joining us in this shadowy quest is none other than Patrick Hickey Jr., the mastermind behind Legacy Comix and the Editor in Chief of Review Fix. With his encyclopedic knowledge of all things comics and gaming, Patrick is here to help us unravel whether Shadow Man 2econd Coming truly captures the spirit of the Valiant Universe’s enigmatic hero.

So, grab your Shadow Guns and prepare to walk between worlds as we explore the eerie corridors of Deadside and beyond. Will the game stand as a faithful homage to its source material, or will it be lost in the abyss of forgotten adaptations? Tune in to find out, and remember, in the world of Play Comics, the only thing scarier than the Grigori demons is a missed episode!Continue Reading

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Smurf fans, mushroom dwellers, and plastic comic enthusiasts, lend me your ears! This week on Play Comics, we’re taking a hard look at one of the most mind-bogglingly bizarre video game adaptations to ever grace the original PlayStation – The Smurfs from 1999. That’s right, we’re diving headfirst into the small blue world where the air is crisp, the mushrooms are plentiful, and the gameplay is…well, let’s just say it’s an experience.

But we’re not going it alone, oh no! Joining us is the one and only Mike Clyburn from the wildly popular podcast The Twisted Cape. Mike’s no stranger to twisted tales and bizarre adventures, so we knew he’d be the perfect tour guide through this cobalt-colored carnival of chaos.

Prepare yourselves for tales of sinister wizards, hapless heroes, and more collectible items than you can smurfing shake a stick at. We’ll laugh, we’ll cry, we’ll question the very nature of our existence. But most of all, we’ll have a smurftastic time exploring this true relic of gaming’s awkward adolescence.

So grab your favorite mushroom cap, take a deep breath of that crisp smurf air, and join us for an episode that’s bound to be…unforgettable. It’s going to be one wild smurf ride!Continue Reading

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Attention all Gundam fanatics and mech maniacs! Today we’re blasting off into the cosmos with Mobile Suit Gundam Zeonic Front for the PlayStation 2!

Joining us is none other than Scott Wachter from the wildly popular podcast The Recap From Mercury. Scott’s expertise lies in overanalyzing obtuse science fiction plots, so he’s the perfect wingman to navigate the tangled narrative threads of the One Year War.

Will the valiant Federation pilots emerge victorious against the dastardly Zeon forces? Can any of us mere mortals comprehend the sheer scale of these titanic mech battles? And is Scott prepared to have his mind blown by the sheer excess of beam spam?

Strap in tight and get ready for rocket-powered robot rampage as we go full psyco gundam on Zeonic Front! The battlefield drama awaits…just try not to get caught in the crossfire. Over and out, soldiers!

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Greetings, fellow Play Comics aficionados and Dragon Ball Z fanatics! It’s time to power up your ki and get ready for an adventure unlike any other. We’re diving headfirst into the wild world of the Dragon Ball Z Collectible Card Game on the Game Boy Advance, and trust us, it’s going to be a blast!

But wait, there’s more! Joining us on this epic journey is the one and only Kyle Billie from The Rad(io) Shorts podcast. With his wicked sense of humor and infectious enthusiasm, we know Kyle will bring a whole new level of fun and excitement to our exploration of this classic card game. Just imagine the shenanigans we’ll get into as we battle it out with our favorite characters and try to outsmart each other with clever strategies.

So, whether you’re a seasoned card game pro or a die-hard Dragon Ball Z fan, you won’t want to miss this episode. Get ready to laugh, strategize, and reminisce about the good old days of portable gaming. It’s going to be a wild ride, and we’re thrilled to have you along for the journey!Continue Reading

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Hey there, fellow Gundam fanatics and Play Comics aficionados! Get ready to power up your mechs and dive into the wild world of Gundam Battle Assault 2, the classic PS1 game that has us all itching for some intense mecha showdowns. And who better to join us on this epic journey than our returning guest, the one and only Billy, who’s graced us with his presence on previous episodes like X-Men Mutant Academy, Ghost in the Shell, Turok 2, and Batman and Robin?

But let’s be real, folks. This time around, it’s all about giant robots duking it out in epic battles that would make even the most hardened Gundam fan swoon. And with Billy’s expert insights and witty banter, we’re sure to have a blast exploring every nook and cranny of this classic game.

So strap in, get ready to activate your beam sabers, and let’s dive into the world of Gundam Battle Assault 2!Continue Reading

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This week we’re blasting off into outer space to take a look back at the classic PS1 fighting game Gundam Battle Assault. Released in North America in 2000, this game brought the action-packed combat of the popular Gundam anime franchise to PlayStation gamers.

Our special guest this episode is Karrington Martin from the fantastic K&K Indie Gaming Corner podcast. Karrington is a huge Gundam fan and will provide expert insight into the lore behind the game’s mobile suits and storylines. We’ll discuss how Gundam was a part of his life growing up and how the timing of the North American release made for some interesting thoughts.

From the slower than you’d expect paced arcade-style gameplay to the impressively animated sprite work, Gundam Battle Assault was a technical marvel on the PlayStation. We’ll analyze the combat mechanics, graphics, and modes that made it a classic among mech fighting games. And we’ll debate where it ranks among other Gundam games and mech fighters on the original PlayStation.

So power up your beam sabers and launch your verniers because we’re taking control of some epic Gundams today with our guest Karrington Martin! Strap in and enjoy this action-packed episode of Play Comics!Continue Reading

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Get ready to dive into the pixelated mystique of the Sega Genesis era as we unleash the power of Mystic Defender on this episode of Play Comics!

In this electrifying installment, we team up with the dynamic Phil Keeling from Pixel Lit to unravel the secrets and thrills behind the classic Sega Genesis game Mystic Defender. Brace yourselves for a riveting conversation that delves into the captivating world of gaming nostalgia, where pixels come to life, and wizards wield unimaginable powers.

Phil Keeling, a connoisseur of gaming narratives and pixelated wonders, brings his expertise to the forefront as we explore the enchanting realm of Mystic Defender. From spellbinding visuals to the mesmerizing hold this had on his childhood despite not having a single clue as to where it came from, we’ll dissect many aspects that makes this Sega Genesis game one that you probably want to go check out. Because most likely, you didn’t check it out back in the day.

Whether you’re a seasoned Mystic Defender veteran or a curious gamer looking to step into the past, this episode promises insights, anecdotes, and a touch of nostalgia that will transport you to the golden age of 16-bit gaming. So plug in those headphones, hit play, and prepare for a journey through pixels, magic, and the unforgettable legacy of Mystic Defender!Continue Reading

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In this pixel-packed extravaganza we’re diving into the realm of Mobile Suits, futuristic warfare, and enough Gundam drama to make soap operas blush. Yes folks it’s time to chat about the PlayStation 2 game “Mobile Suit Gundam: Journey to Jaburo,” a game that had us pressing buttons faster than a cat chases a laser pointer.

But wait, there’s more! We’ve got a guest star shining as bright as the final boss battle. Joining us in the digital cockpit is none other than the fabulous Dan Carroll, captain of the Retro Wars podcast and a connoisseur of all things vintage gaming. Imagine Han Solo, but instead of navigating the Millennium Falcon, he’s steering us through the vast universe of Gundam lore.

So grab your favorite joystick, charge up your beam saber, and get ready for a rollercoaster ride through pixels and panels as we explore just how well “Mobile Suit Gundam: Journey to Jaburo” stacks up against its manga counterpart. Spoiler alert: of all the games that exist, it’s certainly one of them.Continue Reading

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Greetings, fellow gamers and digital explorers! Today, we’re strapping on our Digi-Devices and venturing into the world of Digimon – because why catch ’em all when you can DIGITIZE ’em all? W e’re peeling back the nostalgic layers of the PlayStation classic, Digimon World 2. A game where the monsters are digital, the challenges are real, and the memory card space is always at a premium. But wait, there’s more! We’re not content with just battling in virtual arenas and exploring digital dungeons. At least not by ourselves.

Joining us on this wild Digivolutionary ride is none other than Andrew Young, cohost of the podcast Behold! This gaming aficionado is here to share his insights, drop some knowledge bombs, and maybe even settle the age-old debate of Agumon vs. Gabumon. Brace yourselves, because we’re about to unravel the digital mysteries, level up our nostalgia, and possibly discover if Digimon ever learned to change a lightbulb.Continue Reading

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The cool thing about comic creators is that they tend to like comics. Which means that whoever your favorite comic creator is probably has a favorite comic. But what happens when you find the source of basically everything? And can you get past the fact that it feels so cliche because it’s the source of all of the cliche feelings?

Listen in as Allen Dunford comes by to talk about his favorite comic, which makes sense because he is a comic creator. But will this game give us an idea of why so many people love the manga? Or will it just rely on having a big sword and hoping that the cool factor there carries us through the story?Continue Reading

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Holy poorly-rated superhero media! Get ready to dive into some of the murkiest depths of the Marvel universe as we analyze 2003’s not-so-stellar Daredevil offerings. First up in the hot seat is the Ben Affleck-led Daredevil film that premiered that very same year. Despite boasting major star power and promising early trailers, this big screen endeavor wound up being another dud, critically panned for an overly serious tone and absurd costuming choices.

Then, we’ll switch gears to focus on the Game Boy Advance title based on the Man Without Fear, which sadly failed to convey the swashbuckling thrills of Daredevil’s comic book adventures. Made by pitiful publisher Encore, this game starred a blocky, pixelated DD slinging his billy club at an array of generic thugs and criminals. Gameplay was repetitive and uninspired, while graphics were subpar even by 2003’s standards. Yikes!

To help us dissect these dual disasters, we’re joined by special guest Ryan from Fake Nerd podcast. Ryan will lend his wit and wisdom to evaluating these massive missteps in Daredevil history. Will we find any redeeming qualities in these offerings? Tune in to find out!

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Get ready for a dragon duel of epic proportions! In this corner, we have Dragon Power, the janky NES game that tried and failed to cash in on Dragonball mania. And in this corner, we have the original Dragonball manga, which captures all the absurdity and excitement that Dragon Power completely whiffed on! Let’s get ready to ruuuuumble!

Please give a warm, silly welcome to our special guest judge for today’s podcast, the one and only Kyle “Game Genie” Federline! When he’s not dropping hot takes on the K&K Indie Gaming podcast, Kyle spends his time teaching his kids about the wonders of games from his childhood and trying to find gaming’s biggest hidden gems in the indie scene. Get ready as Kyle lends his unique blend of gaming wisdom and snark to judge today’s retro showdown!Continue Reading