Opinions May Vary (comics movies & videogames)

PAX

Fact:

PAX East 2015 was the best convention I've ever attended.

You might recall I made a similar statement last year in the PAX review blog but it's completely justified. This show is amazing and it seems it only gets better as the years go by. Unlike last time when Alex and I only got to attend for part of one day; this year Joe and Colin joined me for two full days of in-your-face PAX incredibleness.

I'm not going to lie: I've been stressing about this episode all week. We experienced so much and talked to so many incredible people...doing it all justice is a daunting task. I had planned out this massive blog post detailing our adventures but with two full episodes of PAX wrap-up coming at you it would just be redundant.

Instead I'm going to use this space to thank everyone at Penny Arcade and at the BCEC for putting on such an incredible show. Being a gamer can be tough sometimes. Labels, stereotypes, and controversy have been all the rage these days. Sometimes finding places where you can just let loose and be amongst friends can be difficult but places like PAX? Man, it just feels like home.

This post contains part one of our PAX wrap-up. Part two can be found here. We hope you all enjoy I'm sure you'll be counting the days until the next PAX along with us in no time.

-Jr.

Direct download: 3.11.2015_Episode_156_Part_1.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 3:07pm EDT
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I only met Norman Lee a handful of times at conventions but he was easily one of my favorite artists to visit and consistently left a lasting impression. He was always willing to talk and chat which made it very easy for fans like myself to connect with him. It can be intimidating meeting people that make the stories you are a fan of. What do I say? Will they like me? Do I know enough about their work? Do I have to buy something? None of these were issues with Norman. Meeting other artists became easier because any sense of shyness or apprehension was set aside because talking with Norman was so easy.

This clip from our podcast combines my favorite things which is having my friends meet some of the coolest people I know. "This is Zack and Kyla and this is their first comicbook convention." And the nice guy Norman is, he gave us postcard sized prints of his work and personalized them. We chatted some more and he asked what it is we do, and then listened and cracked a few jokes with us. It was great. Unfortunately Kyla lost her print, so at the next show I saw Norman again and told him how much fun we had and that the girl with us lost her print. Without delay he pulled out a full sized print to replace the lost one. To which we made a few more jokes.

Like I said, having only met him a handful of times, he felt like an old friend. "Hang on, I need to go visit Norman Lee" I'd say to the group I was with. Which is different than "I need to go buy _____" or "I need to get my picture with ____."

Losing him is tragic. My thoughts go to his family and friends. I wish more people could have met him and witnessed his friendliness. Norman Lee will be missed.

-Alex.

Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 11:17pm EDT
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Let's say DC decides to put a new artist on Batman who has their own interpretation of how Batman should look. If the look is a hit it's almost a guarantee that you'll see some sort of toy/action figure based on the design. Just glancing at an ad in this week's Green Lantern shows me upcoming Batman figures based on works from Dave Johnson, Ivan Reis, and Bryan Hitch. Makes sense, right? Not all Batmen are the same.

What about creator owned books? Some of the best stories I've ever read have been creator owned. Sadly, unless we're talking about The Walking Dead it can be pretty tough to find genuine merchandise based on the characters.

Enter Israel Skelton.

Israel is the creator/owner of Skelton Crew Studios. With a background in sculpting and metal work Israel has managed to turn a fun hobby into a full time business. Starting out with just a few replica keys from the Locke & Key books, Israel now produces collectables from books like Chew, Hellboy, and Mouse Guard.

Join us this week where we get to chat with Israel and hear about how awesome it is to literally live the expression "Do what you love and you'll never work a day in your life".

Check it out, let us know what you think and don't forget to check out the Skelton Crew site to see what's coming out next!

-Jr.

Direct download: 3.2.2015_Episode_155.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 1:38pm EDT
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 Wicked Faire 2015:

 *CORRECTION ALERT: In this review episode of OMV, I exhaustively referred to Azkadelia’s associate/compatriot as “Charlie”. This is inaccurate information. His name is Christopher. My sincere apologies for the mix-up!*

 

Princeton, NJ was the travel destination for fans of Renaissance, Steampunk, Gothic and alternative culture this past weekend. Costumes, Vendors, Performances and good company abound as this year’s  Wicked Renaissance Faire fell upon the grounds of its new home at the Hyatt Regency Hotel off Carnegie Center. A staple in the pantheon of Jeff Mach Events, Wicked Faire boasts a plethora of performers, patrons, vendors and activities to satisfy the nerd in all of us.

Pass

 I got to give my artistic skills a stretch over the weekend by handing my airbrush ability over to the Fantastic Photographer, Babs Who Takes Pictures! She was taking a con off from work and was out and about doing costuming with the help of Redfield Design. Here's my favorite look from the event: 


Babs 

Once costumes had been donned and readied, we hit the Convention! Babs told me that she got quite a lot of photos taken of her, which was great to hear. Here is my systematic and methodical breakdown of the event in categories. Enjoy!

THE VENUE:

The Venue this year was nothing short of beautiful. The Hyatt Regency in Princeton (which was reserved just for Wicked Faire attendees) boasted a lovely setting for the event. Among the beautiful architecture and design of the hotel, the most impressive space was the wide open, courtyard-style area in the lobby of the building, and was brightly lit and packed with activity. 

hotel

 Hotel 2

Hotel 3

The central food court area made for a great place to eat and drink without having to leave the venue. The quality of food sold there was outstanding, and the beverage selection (both alcoholic and N.A.) were fairly respectable. 

There was a hallway for vendors, one for panels and adult vending. After just a few rounds it was very easy to navigate to where you needed to go. The only challenges were the inevitable traffic jams due to mini photo shoots and socializing, but it never got to a point of incessant or intolerable. 

Map

PERFORMANCES & PANELS:

The Schedule did not disappoint this year, with more than 100 separate events occurring on Saturday, and well over 50 happening on both Friday and Sunday, there was always something to see or do. Here is a quick rundown of the shows and performances I saw at length: 

 Katie Kat: A gifted singer, Katie took to the main Atrium Stage and captured the attention of the entire courtyard in a few short notes. A powerful voice paired with enchanting music! (KatieKatOpera.com) 

 White Elephant Burlesque: This troupe had a number of memorable and entertaining performances! 

Frenchy & The Punk: A must-see for any convention. They performed new music from their recent album, and they delivered grand performances throughout the weekend. 

F&TP

F&TP2

This Way to the Egress: A surprise discovery for me, this band was nonstop fun and energy. A six-piece blending sounds of swing, folk and more, this talented group was a great time to see. I look forward to seeing them again. 

Poisonous Apples and Pretty Witches - Lilith Lore: Lilith performed a number of darkly re-imagined tales with grace, poise and intrigue. Among the tales was a sublime rendition of the Beauty and the Beast, which was both engrossing and enchanting. An enjoyable exhibition! 

Azkadelia the Mad Hattress / Mad Hatter Aerials:

Akkadelia and Christopher entertained and engaged this weekend with nearly nonstop performances throughout the weekend. In addition to performing, Azkadelia also held workshops in between shows (all having been booked solid before the weekend began, which speaks volumes). Her final performance of the weekend on Sunday was chock full of DJ takeovers, background dancing from both Chris and Wyck, as well as guest appearances. You know it's a good show when an entire hotel of attendees stop dead in their tracks to watch! 

Flying

Flying2

Flying3

Karneival Sideshow Circus: Their Saturday performance was very impressive, with great feats of skill and sensation! Whip cracking, Broken Glass walking (and face standing), blowguns and balloons, ending in the classic Human Bulletin board. A solid show with strong character work and audience report! 

VENDORS: 

There are never a shortage of unique and interesting vendors at a Jeff Mach event. This year the Vendors were spread out between two separate areas/floors of the con. Here is a list of the vendors I saw that I really enjoyed and had to note: 

Canes Enable: 

With Accessories and Accouterments that any Victorian Gentleman or Woman could ask for, Mark P. Donnelly's booth will never cease to engage and impress me. I added to my collection with a Gangs of New York-styled Police Club/Truncheon. 

Mad Etcha: Freehand Glass Etching (etsy.com/shop/MadEtcha
Fantastic skill and artistry from Mad Etcha. A lovely display and impressive breadth of work! 

Warpath Archery: (WarpathArchery.etsy.com)

A very cool booth that specializes in Bows, Arrows, Strings and other Traditional Archery Equipment. Very cool display and array of wares. 

Masks by Antonette and Creations: (facebook.com/antonette.masks)

Given the Masquerade on Friday Night, this booth was a no-brainer in theming, with a lovely selection of hand-painted masks of various styles! From Carnivale to Dia De Los Muertos and everything in between. 

Dellamorte & Co.: 

I have seen Dellamorte & Co. a few times, and every time I see them, they have something new in their selection, and something that makes me mad that I don't have more expendable income. Their work is in a dark/gothic aesthetic with beautiful detail. If they are at Steampunk World's Fair, I will be making a purchase! 

Corvus Creations: (etsy.com/shop/CorvusCreations)

I was drawn to their wares, especially their Steampunk pieces. Very nice work! 

The Leather Lair: (theleatherlair.com

They had an impressive display and selection of wares in the bigger Vendor room at the Hotel. Vests, shirts, wrist buckels, you name it, they have something in the neighborhood of what you are looking for. Very personable and friendly staff! 

ISSUES & CONS

Overall, the Convention was a wonderful time. While there were the few expected "new venue" hang-ups that occur at any public gathering, to anyone attending a convention for the first time would not have noticed anything. It seemingly ran quite smoothly. My notes are quite nit-picky and really played little roles in the overall experience I had with the event. 

The Hotel Staff were incredibly helpful and accommodating, and despite looking confused and befuddled from time to time, they were exceptional and professional whenever I saw them. 

Princeton Police Department was in full force throughout the course of the event, with no less than three officers on site keeping watch (that I saw). In addition to the Convention Volunteers, everything seemed well organized and taken care of. 

On Saturday, there were a few Facebook posts that alerted to some indiscriminate behavior that occurred at the event. I did not bare witness to any such occurrences, which to me would speak that they were handled with grace and discretion. (If there's more of a hassle going on about it online than at the event it occurred at, I think you are handling it right.) 

A blameless issue that occurred was the weather. Many people were forced to disband earlier than expected on Saturday due to a Storm system that rolled in through the mid-afternoon into the evening. With a couple inches of snow which turned into sleet and ice, it was a major impact on the mood and behaviors of the attendees. However, those that stayed were determined to enjoy themselves, and did not let the weather ruin their good time. And that is turning a frown upside down. 

There were spacial issues in some spaces (a vendor or two out in the open, seemingly displaced, traffic jams from people, etc.) but once more, these are VERY minor observations, and if Wicked Faire returns to the Hyatt Regency (which I hope will occur), I am sure it will become bigger, better and a more well-oiled machine. 

My grade for this con is: B+/A- 

I had a blast, and I attended this convention with less than 6 hours of sleep in two days under my belt and fresh out of a Wisdom Tooth extraction the afternoon before. I was smiling, dancing and laughing with people both familiar and unfamiliar. I got to network, be artsy and spend time with members of the Steampunk Community. A weekend well spent! 

One thing I really appreciate about Jeff Mach Events (there's plenty of things I appreciate, but this one in particular) is that there is always the desire for dialogue between the Convention holders and attendees. The Facebook page is always active with threads actively engaging and requesting feedback and thoughts on how things occurred, and how things went, as well as gauging interest on possible future events. It is refreshing to see, especially when that formula is not as well-exercised with other live events in this category. 

A solid Convention, and if you have not been to a Jeff Mach Event, do yourself the favor and take a weekend to enjoy one. You will not be disappointed! 

This concludes my post-mortem of Wicked Faire! I would like to thank Alex and Jayare for enlisting me to help report on this great event, and I look forward to doing it again for Steampunk World's Fair in May! 

Until then.. 

Brett Kelley: Art Mercenary 

Like a bawse.

Direct download: 2.26.2015_Episode_154.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 6:52pm EDT
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Anyone who consistently reads this is probably well aware that writing is not one of my greatest talents. I use way too many adjectives and I tend to cluster short sentences one after the other so it's like a robot talking or something. The defiant side of me wants to say "hey shut up man. That's how you write and you should stick to it" whereas the more reasonable side wants to say "you should probably listen real hard to this week's guest."

Oh man what a perfect segue.

Our pal Joe Sherry joined us this week so we could grill him on a neat contest he's a part of. He was one of 13 contestants picked to compete in David Wellington's Fear Project. Every week he's given a topic and just a couple days later he has to submit an original short story about it. The person with the lowest amount of votes (or comments on their story. Positive/negative doesn't matter) is eliminated. Joe has currently made it to the top 11 and is still going strong.

Fans of horror/comics/writing/laughing/constant puns are going to want to check this one out. We had a blast with Joe this week and we wish him the best of luck in the contest!

-Jr.

Direct download: 2.19.2015_Episode_153.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:39am EDT
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You ever look back on past events and really question the decisions you made during that event?

You ever look back and think "Hey. The dude at the table next to us at the Boston Comic Con last summer was really cool and his artwork is currently blowing my face off with awesome. Why didn't we talk to him more?"

Yeah. Us too.

Our guest this week is artist Dave Mahan. If you haven't guessed by now he he was stationed next to us at Boston last year. While we chatted and joked every so often throughout the weekend we never really took the proper time to check out his work and really see what he was about. In other words we were fucking idiots. Lucky for us we got a second chance this week.

Want to see some of his art? Click here. And here. Or even here. And maybe even here if you want to buy some of it.

We hope you learn something from this episode. Don't be like us. Don't make the same mistakes we did. Talk to your table-mates. You never know who might be sitting right next to you.

-Jr.

Direct download: 2.12.2015_Episode_152.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 12:30pm EDT
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If someone came up to me today and asked me to name one friend I have that wasn't in to pro wrestling at one point in their life I'd have a very difficult time finding an answer.

Some of my fondest childhood memories were watching Brett Hart, Shawn Michaels, Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock destroy each other on a weekly basis. Hell, I even had a Four Square team in 4th grade named The Nation of Domination. I'm not kidding. We were badass.

NOD

                    It's like looking in a mirror and seeing my 4th grade self.

Sadly, I'm one of the many who just kind of fell out of it once the Stone Cold/Rock era ended. As a kid you can't help but think all of it is totally real. I mean, he got hit in the head with a steel chair! It's metal! And it hit his head! How could this NOT be real? Then as you grow up you start to see the fabrication and the scripting and the stars you grew up idolizing start to fade out or just plain retire. I'm not necessarily the best when it comes to change and when John Cena showed up that was just about it for me.

Cena

                         I think I have a natural hatred for jean shorts.

There was a short time in my late teens when I had somewhat of a resurgence and started watching the pay-per-views again but that was short lived. But...after recording this week's episode our guest has me hankering for some old school "Stone Cold has literally stunned every single person in the arena" action.

His name is Matthew James and he's the emcee of Revival Pro Wrestling out of Chicopee, Massachusetts. He has an encyclopedic knowledge of professional wrestling and completely broke my brain within 5 minutes of recording. Be sure to check out their Facebook page for updates on shows and events possibly coming to an area near you! They're a ton of fun and Alex approved. Honestly you don't need much more than that.

-Jr.

All images are copyright of their respective owners

Direct download: 2.6.2015_Episode_151.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:44am EDT
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I just spent the last 4 hours sitting in a Buffalo Wild Wings watching people try to beat each other up for money and stuff. So. There's that.

Anywho.

It seems at least once every year I get an urge to pick up at least one Marvel book. Anyone who knows me is aware that I'm predominantly a DC/Image guy and I've tried the whole "hey maybe I'll give this Marvel book a shot!" many times in the past. Normally I get a maximum of 3 issues in before I get bored/lose interest/miss an issue etc etc. (Except in the case of Moon Knight...I read the shit out of Moon Knight.)

Well it seems history is repeating itself yet again because that old hankering came back and I decided to pick up the new Thor book. We had talked about it a while back because of the whole "Thor is a girl now" thing. Really I was pretty meh on the whole uproar anyway because I had never read a single issue of Thor in my life. I mean honestly - Who gives a shit. Boy Thor. Girl Thor. As long as hammers are flying and people are using words like "ye" and "hath" it's good enough for me.

So we're up to the 4th issue and I gotta say - It's awesome. I love it. It has quickly...very quickly might I add...turned into one of my favorite books. It's not really groundbreaking stuff but it's just a lot of fun. The new Thor is a badass. The old Thor is going through some rough times. And there's hammers just fucking everywhere. It's fantastic. Not to mention the art is exactly what I want it to be. Nothing more, nothing less. It fits the style and the theme of the book perfectly.

Thor!

                    Thor #4 Cover by Russell Dauterman & Matthew Wilson

If you're not picking this book up I highly recommend taking a look for some back issues or even waiting a few months for the trade. Marvel seems to be pumping out trades almost as fast as the individual issues are coming out anyways so you probably won't even have to wait that long.

You can always thank me later.

-Jr.

Direct download: 1.31.2015_Episode_150.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 6:40pm EDT
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Hey you know what's better than an episode of OMV?

Getting an episode of OMV and an episode of Hey. Look at These Comics on the same day.

Can you believe that? I mean...I'm not saying you should be thanking us...but, you know. You're welcome.

 

Direct download: 1.24.2015_Episode_149.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 6:39pm EDT
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BREAKING NEWS: I read on supersecretmovieforums.com that Tom Hardy dropped out of Suicide Squad because he's been cast to play Eddie Brock in Avengers 3.

THIS JUST IN: As reported by holyshitcanyoubelievetheserumors.com it seems that despite already playing Captain America in three different movies, Chris Evans has been cast as Tony Stark's long lost brother Reginald Stark for the next Iron Man film due out in 2034.

DEVELOPING: omvpodcast.com is reporting that people tend to take these casting rumors and breaking news stories way too seriously and just need to sit back and enjoy a movie every once in a while without having to know every single detail about it beforehand.

Well that was fun. But seriously.

We are a spoiled generation and there is no denying it. With access to the entire world right at our fingertips we have become addicted to information. With this wealth of information comes heaps of misinformation and sometimes people can have some trouble telling the difference between the two. 

One of the sad results is the "hey I think I know everything about that movie coming up because I read about it on the internet" guy. We all know him. We all...deal with him. Mostly because he's been a part of the group for years we'd feel like real jerks for telling him to piss off despite the fact that it's almost as if he tries to ruin everyone's good time.

But I digress.

Colin is back this week and I have no idea what happened during the last 30 minutes of the episode.

Enjoy!

-Jr.

Direct download: 1.15.2015_Episode_148.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 6:14pm EDT
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We're coming up on 3 years of doing this whole podcast thing.

It's fun. It gives us all a reason to hang out. And we get to go to shows every now and then and tell you all about how awesome they were. Honestly though. If you were to ask me what the best part of the job is I'd probably say "None of the above".

Why?

Because of all the people we get to meet.

Meeting artists/writers/creators never gets old and lucky for us it probably never will. This show started as an outlet to express our appreciation for these people and now we have an excuse to actually talk to them?? You can't beat it.

This week's guest is one of the very first people we ever met because of this OMV thing. Rewind back two years to the Steampunk World's Fair 2013 and you'll hear us talk about Nicole from The Devil's Darkroom and how freakin' cool she was. Not only was she actually interested in talking with us but she was telling us all about something we'd never seen before.

Have you ever seen those "old timey" photos at theme parks and stuff? Picture that only real. No greenscreens, no digital cameras. Her business involved using a 100+ year old lens to project an image onto a sheet of metal then using a home-made combination of chemicals to seal it on the sheet for decades to come. The end result? Amazing:

Image

I knew going in to SPWF that I was completely out of my element but meeting Nicole and her crew at the Darkroom really helped my settle in and realize no one really gave a shit if I was new to it or not. To steal a line from the legendary Chris Farley: It was awesome.

Take a peek at some of her other works:

bird

horse

Portrait

These are just a tiny sample of what you can find over at The Devil's Darkroom. For those attending SPWF 2015 be sure to keep an eye out for her tent. You won't want to miss out on this one.

-Jr.

Images courtesy of The Devil's Darkroom.

Direct download: 1.6.2015_Episode_147.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 12:51pm EDT
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Joe's Games of 2014

Hey folks, it’s your resident “I don’t know anything about comics so please can we talk about video games” OMV guest, Joe!  2014 might be one of my favorite years for video gaming, ever.  There are years where you get a few great games that will be eternal (Last of Us, Bioshock Infinite), but 2014 saw a smattering of games across all platforms and genres that are GOTY potentials.  So I present to you, Joe’s Games of 2014!

Super Smash Bros Wii U/3DS

I’ve been smashing since January of 2000, so this January will make it so that this game series has been there for half of my life.  It’s the first game I bought for my N64 (after it came with DK64 – late adopter over here).  I remember sitting in my friend Ike’s basement playing the 64 version, playing Melee at Jayare’s house, Brawling in my dorm room, and literally NOTHING has diminished as Super Smash Bros 3DS/Wii U versions have graced my presence.  I prefer the 3DS version for my own reasons, but I can already envision the next half decade of good times… and they look good.  I love having my own Mii in the fray, and the cast of characters is hugemazing.  

Smile factor: Laughing to the point of tears, almost every single time I play with Colin and Jayare.  The 8 person gameplay is also a real game changer - sure, we can lay a smack down on 3 level 9’s, easy.  But 4?  5?!  Oh yeah, we’ll bring them down.  I mean, just look at this team.

Team

Fucking.  Fierce.

Borderlands (Tales / Pre-Sequel):

I’ve been a long time Borderlands fan (it was the first game I bought for my PS3 and I played on a pretty regular basis until BL2 came out – I was weary for what Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel would bring to the table with a quasi-new development team.  If you look at it as hilarious, amazing, DLC package for BL2, you’ll have the exact right expectation for BL: TPS.  It hits a very satisfying sweet spot for me.

What I had even lower expectations for was Tales from the Borderlands, which I will say nothing about other than if you dig any Tell Tale game, you will get a lot of enjoyment from this one.  I laughed out loud several times throughout, and it holds the cultural aesthetic of what makes BL so great intact.  It is so much fun knowing that you have another delicious morsel of gameplay that will come out again in a few months.

Borderlands

Smile factor: In TPS, navigating the outside of the space station had me holding my breath at one point – I love when games can make me feel something like that.  There was also the time that my buddy Chris walked out of the room and said, “Don’t blow up the car,” and was promptly greeted by the sound of a car exploding.  “Whoops.”

TftBL has so many funny moments, many of which come from the nifty ECHOeye scanner that one of the main characters has.  Scan EVERYTHING.

Shantae and the Pirate Curse:

If you haven’t seen the pattern yet, I’m combining categories here – my original last had 12 games (seriously, it was a good year).  But my Downloadable game of the year has to be Shantae, the third in a series of great games from Wayforward (for the record, if you see Wayforward on a game – it’s almost always amazing).  Shantae is a Metroidvania-type side scroller where you play a genie.  It is also an absolutely blast to play and chock-full of self-referential video game and nerd humor.  You will NOT be let down by this.  Shantae and the Pirate Curse is the newest, but you can also still download the 2nd version (Shantae: Risky’s Revenge) from the eShop.  It’s only $12 versus the $20 for Pirate Curse, which might make it an easier entry point for new fans.

Shantae

Smile Factor: I can’t bring myself to ruin jokes, but there are references to Star Wars, He-Man, a character’s own previous status as a boss in the last game, and so much more.  It also happens to be an amazing sidescroller as well.  DAMN.

Mario Kart 8

I’m guessing I don’t have to sell anyone on Mario Kart 8.  I believe this version is the best console version of the series, with antigravity tracks, underwater portions, and hands down the easiest controls I’ve had the pleasure of manipulating.  On-line play was quick and easy, but sharing the couch is still the preferred way to go here.  I have the least to say about this because it’s Mario Kart - we all know it and love it.  So go play it.  Also remember this meme!?!?!

Luigi

Smile Factor: I couldn’t tell you what was happening in this moment, but my roommate came home while I was playing this game and said I just had the biggest, dopiest grin on my face.  Mario Kart 8 has the “Megaman 9 Effect” hardcore.  We just teleport back to childhood where nothing is wrong and everything is fun.

Hyrule Warriors

When I first got my PS3, I did it when I was poor and couldn’t afford to go out anywhere, so I needed a way to be entertained.  I could only buy one game, and bought Borderlands - I proceeded to put in hundreds of hours into that game.  If I had to make that same decision now, I would have done it with Hyrule Warriors.  It’s huge.  I mean, freakin huge.  I will not describe the hugeness.  To be fair, I do not recommend this as a Legend of Zelda game - the storyline is brief, and the action is completely different.

Hyrule

Smile Factor: “Ugh, I have to play as Ganondorf.” *Accidentally wipes out 75 enemies with one hit* “I AM THE DEMON KING!”  Also, when I was picking the above picture, I debated 5 minutes between Midna pulling the moon from Majora’s Mask down with a hookshot, or Princess Ruto beating the crap out of an army with water dolphins.  That’s a good fucking debate.

Honorable Mentions:

Having said that, there were an amazing number of eShop games this year beyond Shantae as well – Shovel Knight is a platformer in the style of Duck Tales and Megaman that was Kickstarted and finally put into production.  It is WELL worth the price of admission on its own, but even better, there will be new character DLC coming out over the next year as well.  Azure Striker Gunvolt is more like the Megaman Zero games (which if you ever played, you know how tight those are).  Tons of fun!

NES Remix (1 and 2) also came out for the Wii U – these are silly little diversions into NES history that made for a seriously fun few video game nights.  If you have the spare cash and love nostalgia, you won’t go wrong.

Wolf Among Us wrapped up in 2014, so I’m counting it here even though the first one technically came out in 2013.  This was my first exposure to both Tell Tale Games and the Fables universe, and I become quite hooked on both.  I actually went and read Fables in its entirety (a 10 year run) upon completing the game, because I wanted more of the characters, the universe, the… everything.  Both are well worth your time and dollars.  Thank you Colin for throwing this one into my maw.

Joe's Games He Played in 2014 But Were Older But He Just Discovered Them So Yeah

Wonderful 101:

So, guess what - it turns out the Wii U, sort of secretly, became the best damned next generation console out there.  Yes, I’ve seen your Titanfalls and your… actually, that’s it.  All the other “killer games” are still coming out on my PS3.  Whereas the Wii U keeps churning out amazing, original material: case in point, Wonderful 101.  A game where you control a team of 100 super heroes (to varying degrees) to abate a giant oncoming alien threat.  It’s like playing a Saturday Morning Cartoon with all the humor, madcap antics, and amazing music (though, admittedly, the controls are like learning to drive a Jaeger by yourself - make like Idris Elba, man up and do it).  It’s made by PlatinumGames Inc. (the game company currently getting 9s and 10s for Bayonetta 2), which itself is composed of many of the remenants of Clover Studio (God Hand, Okami, Viewtiful Joe) - basically, they make games that no one will ever play, but if you did, you would love them.

Game and Wario:

If you still have a Gameboy Advance, go find yourself a copy of Warioware Twisted.  Come back in 4 months when you’ve unlocked everything.  We good?  Now that you understand how awesome Wario games can be, this game is basically a minigame pack, but the minigames are often off the chain amazing (seriously, on par with Nintendoland, and WHY AREN’T WE TALKING ABOUT NINTENDOLAND ANYMORE).  My highlight is Gamer, where you basically play WarioWare on the gamepad, but you have to pay attention to TV or else a “momster” will jump out at you.  It’s the most terrifying fun you’ll ever have, and there’s still like 15 more games.

Rayman Legends:

This game did get a bit of recognition when it first came out, but now I don’t feel like anyone actually played it.  Here’s the problem - you need to play this game two player.  Yes, you CAN play this game one player, but playing it two player is a magical experience.  Are you a gamer, and your significant other or spawn only plays Candy Crush?  Guess what - they almost definitely made this game for you.  You get to play a tight, frantic, fun, beautiful side scroller, while they get to play a tight, frantic, fun, beautiful touch-based game.  You know like when you could have someone be the star in Mario Galaxy?  Like that, times 1000 for the person playing the star.  Play through to the end of the first world, and you will be completely hooked.

Hotline Miami:

Another Colin recommendation - seriously, that guy knows his games.  I’ve actually had a copy of this sitting on my computer for almost 2 years (thank you Humble Bundles), but Colin was the one who convinced me to crack it open again.  I love arcade games at home, and by arcade games I mean ones that you can practice, get better at, achieve a higher score, and essentially have something that’s insanely replayable.  It’s not about story, just score and speed.  Hotline Miami has you playing as a hired gun that uses animal masks and found weaponary to tear ass through various locales in the 80s.  It’s very uncomfortable and a lot of fun.

LEGO Marvel Superheroes

I’ve never been a fan of playing the LEGO Video Games, but I’ve burnt an afternoon or two watching other people play them.  The controls are usually pretty clumsy, and it feels like two manatees fencing most of the time.  But, they are cute to watch.  LEGO Marvel Superheroes stomps the hell out of that - this game controls reasonably well, but is hilarious and taps into your nerd button in the best ways.  The Hulk’s transformations are great, the variety of the powers are fun, and it just feels like it was made by a bunch of LEGO/Marvel nerds  Which is more than any of us could ever ask for.

Games I Didn't Get to This Year Because The List Above Was Massive

Super Mario 3D World: Yeah, I still haven’t beaten this.  I don’t have any excuses.  What the shit?

Walking Dead: Another Colin recommendation… I’M RUNNING OUT OF MONEY COLIN.

South Park: The Stick of Truth: I don’t know, I will steal this game from Jayare at some point.  Don’t tell him.

The Last of Us - Left Behind DLC: I admit, I’m a little scared to start playing Last of Us again.  Not out of fear of the game world, but just knowing it took me like 4 months to shake off the feel of that game.  Come Christmas break, I’ll play this and cry for another 4 hours.

Guacamelee: Again, Humble Bundle sitting on my computer.  I think my computer might be too slow?  Or too fast?  Reasons?

Bravely Default: RPGs are always a little intimidating for people with jobs, and I played the demo and was almost instantly lost.  But apparently this was like the best RPG to come out in awhile.  I’m sorry.

Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker: Jayare actually gave this to me… I have a similar intimidation factor.  I fall for Zelda games hard and go through withdrawals towards the last few dungeons.

Pikmin 3: I got this for FREE for buying Mario Kart 8, and it's just sitting there, unplayed.  What's wrong with me?

Professor Layton/Phoenix Wright Games: Apparently 7 of these have come out since I last played one.  I’m sorry puzzle games with stories, I can’t find the time / remember where I left off with you.

Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D/Tropical Freeze: God damn it.  

Mario & Luigi: Dream Team: DAMN IT I LOVE THESE GAMES

-Joe

Direct download: 12.31.2014_Episode_146.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:28pm EDT
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In lieu of the holidays absolutely destroying me with busy-ness I've decided to take it easy this week.

No worries though. You can expect the usual rambling blog posts to return asap.

I'm just really tired.

And whiny.

And trying to mentally prepare myself for all the "2014 oh no damnit I meant to write 2015" mistakes I'll be making in the coming months.

It's a tough life.

Anway. We hope you all had an amazing holiday and be safe this new year. Enjoy the episode!

-Jr.

Direct download: 12.27.2014_Episode_145.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 5:05pm EDT
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It makes me really happy when cool people do funny things.

It also makes me happy when those same cool people troll the living hell out of people trying to take advantage of Black Friday.

This week we talk about how one company managed to convince 30,000 people to buy actual poop on Black Friday. The funny part is those 30,000 people were all aware of what they were buying and it still sold out. It sold out. Meaning they had a large supply of it...and enough people bought it to the point where there wasn't any left to sell. This is a serious story. Nothing I've typed in the last paragraph is false. Need proof? Click here. I'll be the first to admit I was 2 clicks away from owning it myself. I, like many it seems, was convinced that there had to be something more to it. And I, like many, was wrong.

I'm not sure if the proper lesson is "Live and Learn" or just simply "Always read the FAQ". Or maybe "Don't expect much on Black Friday from a company that clearly hates Black Friday." I suppose the answer is All Of The Above.

In other news: The Art Mercenary is back! The Steampunk Savage himself Brett Kelley joined us this week to talk poop, BKV, and he even pitched a new book he's really digging.

Does it get any better than that?

The answer is no. Enjoy, folks.

-Jr.

Direct download: 12.18.2014_Episode_144.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 6:50pm EDT
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Before you start ruthlessly mocking me: Yes. I spent the entire episode calling it episode 142 despite it being episode 143. Can you please just leave me alone and let me brood in my own stupidity? Thanks.

Now that we got that out of the way.

Our guest this week is Rob Balchunas! It had been a crazy long time since we last had the pleasure of talking with Rob so his return was an exciting time for us. Really most of the episode is Alex and me grilling Rob about all the cool stuff he's done over the past year. Like this. Did you spot him? Neat, right??

-Jr.

Direct download: 12.12.2014_Episode_143.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 4:54pm EDT
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You ever have that moment when you're talking to an artist/creator at a convention and they're just really cool?

This week's guest is that guy.

His name is Rich Woodall and he's the creator of the indie hit Johnny Raygun! Not only has he created his own book but his work has also been featured in books like Invincible, Savage Dragon, and Atomic Robo to name a few. Check out our interview with him and you'll hear all about his upcoming projects and some neat stories chronicling what it's like to break into the industry.

If you're looking to catch up on the rest of Rich's work you should definitely click this link and buy everything you see there. Then while you're reading all the things you just bought you can listen to us ask Rich questions! How cool is that?!?

So cool!

Enjoy!

-Jr.

Direct download: 12.4.2014_Episode_142.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:59am EDT
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Alright so I swore I'd get back to this as soon as possible and apparently that time has come. You'll have to forgive me as I got a package from a brilliant man out in California that I just couldn't wait to open. (New video coming soon, btw).

So.

Smash Bros for the Wii U came out this past week and while there was the usual excitement that came along with the release there was also a bit of...nervousness?

See I, like many people it seems, was nervous that the 3DS version was good enough to the point where we didnt need a Wii U port. Why spend money on a second copy of the game when there are only small tweaks here and there. It features the same roster, most of the same maps, and similar game modes with things like Smash Run being replaced by a Mario Party type game called Smash Tour. Add in the fact that I can take my 3DS version on the go with me everywhere and we've built up a pretty good case as to why we don't need to spend $60 again.

Now you don't honestly believe I'd ever not buy a Smash Bros game, right? Despite all the concerns I may have had about buying a "2nd version" of a game I still went to the midnight release and I was still up until two in the morning playing it nonstop. Why??

The answer is simple.

Nintendo. Have faith in the Nintendo. For the Nintendo knows what we want and the Nintendo will treat us justly. Do not doubt the Nintendo for that will only lead to embarassment. Let Nintendo do it's work. And rejoice when the Nintendo gives us its gifts.

Anway, check out this week's digs to hear all about how perfect the new Smash Bros game is.

-Jr.

Direct download: 11.28.2014_Episode_141.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 5:45pm EDT
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Remember two years ago when Jesse made his OMV debut to talk about Black Ops 2?

That was awesome.

Remember last year when Jesse made his sophomore appearance on OMV to talk about Ghosts?

Also awesome.

Well, it seems it's that time of the year again and there's yet another Call of Duty game out. Do you see a pattern here? You guessed it: Jesse is back. And we're talking CoD. Not only is Jesse back, though. We have a 2nd special guest this week and his name is Parsons. Eric Parsons to be exact. He is a fellow gamer who aids us in slaughtering zombies from time to time. He's also the guy who is the last man standing every. single. game. But we don't need to get into that right now...

Sadly, as you'll hear this week it seems they've decided to move away from the whole zombie thing and have added a different type of survival mode. While this makes me sad it also makes me happy. Happy meaning I can just stick to the games I already own and not spend money on a new one. Let's just hope that they keep the Zombie servers up for...uh...maybe forever? That would be neat. That's a realistic expectation if I've ever heard one.

Ah well. Guess I'll go play Smash Bros for the next 6 hours while I wait in line to get the new one. I can't think of a better way to spend my night...

-Jr.

Direct download: 11.19.2014_Episode_140.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 6:29pm EDT
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So. PAX tickets went on sale.

This might be a bit of a sore subject for some people. If you haven't heard....3 day passes sold out in a matter of minutes. Not exaggerated minutes. Literal minutes. As in less than 500 seconds.

And people are pissed. Not necessarily because 3 day passes sold out so fast but because they had no idea they were even on sale. In order to try to prevent organized scalping the folks over at Penny Arcade decided not to let anoyone know tickets were going on sale.

And that didn't sit well with certain folks...and in normal 2014 fashion they took to the internet to express their disapproval. Hilarity ensued. Alex and I talked about it. Check it out.

Also, while you're at it: Check out episode 3 of Hey. Look at these comics. This week Alex gave us a rundown of a product he helped Kickstart called ComiCases.

 -Jr.

Direct download: 11.14.2014_Episode_139.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 3:24pm EDT
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If there were any four words in the English language to describe this week's episode they would be:

 

Not. Safe. For. Work.

 

Seriously. If you're not in an area where you can openly listen to someone say certain four letter words repeatedly then you should probably pop some headphones in.

Why all the cursing? Let's just say Ken and Jess went to RICC this past weekend and came on to tell us all about it. Or at least they tried. They managed to get some words in in-between fits of rage.

Again, this episode is definitely explicit. It's awesome. But explicit. Don't say I didn't warn you. Seriously, though. It's awesome.

-Jr.

Direct download: 11.6.2014_Episode_138.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 5:28pm EDT
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It's not every day that we have a record holder on our show.

In fact...there have been a grand total of zero days that we've had a record holder on our show...until now.

Our guest this week is Bob Bretall. Not only is Bob a huge comic fan, the founder of comicspectrum.com, and an all-around great guy but he's also the proud owner of the Guinness World Record for the largest comic collection. With a collection of over 95,000 unique comic books Bob has been officially recognized and enshrined in the record books. Pretty neat, right?

Don't believe me? Go to your local Barnes & Noble/bookstore and grab the new record book, flip to page 172 and boom. That's Bob.

Episode 137 is all about Bob, his website, his record, and how to be a true comic collector. Check it out!

-Jr.

Direct download: 10.30.2014_Episode_137.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 5:25pm EDT
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Enjoying the episode?

Well we also have a new video for you to watch! This time it's just me showing all the Invincible I picked up this past summer. Despite the fact that I've always dug the book I had one of those revelations over the past few months that turned it into a Top 3 book for me. I went from being the guy who waited for the hardcovers to the guy who is checking Ottley/Kirkman's twitter every week for info on the new issue.

Part of me wants to blame it on the declining quality of Big Two books over the past year or so (personal opinion, of course) but really it's just because Invincible is that damn good. I've always been a fan of Kirkman's work since I read my first issue of Walking Dead in 2006 but what makes the book a total home run is the art. Ottley just nails it and when combined with Kirkman's storytelling you just get one hell of a book.

You know, this happens every time. I mention Invincible then I go on some huge tangent about how dope it is. We literally did this like...3 weeks ago. Well. Either way. Check out our new video...I talk about Invincible some more in it. Enjoy!

 -Jr.

Direct download: 10.24.2014_Episode_136.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:56am EDT
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I spent $60 at NYCC this year. Can you believe that? Aside from food and travel I managed to walk out of the largest pop-culture convention in the country having only spent $60.

I'm pretty proud of that. There have been years at NYCC where I've made some more than questionable financial decisions all in the name of comics...but this year? This year I was a true "adult". While it's somewhat depressing becoming this "adult" it's also kinda neat. The $60 that I spent went towards things that were both awesome and reasonable. That's what adults do, right?

After re-reading everything I just wrote I realized I sound like a total asshole. That was not my intention. I was merely just trying to point out that I'm better at making financial decisions than you. Wait. That came out wrong. What I was really trying to say is it's very possible to enjoy yourself at a massive convention without spending every cent you have...This is something I wish I realized about 4 years ago. Shows like NYCC have this mystifying way of dragging your money right out of your pocket and before you know it you're desperately swiping your bank card at the ATM praying you magically won the lottery or something. I've seen it happen a million times. Literally. One million. Don't be that guy.

Anyway. Jon and Will were both at NYCC while I was also at NYCC. Sadly Alex couldn't go with us to NYCC so our recap of NYCC is both for you and for Alex. NYCC madness. All up in everyone's NYCC faces. Enjoy, ya'll.

-Jr.

Direct download: 10.14.2014_Episode_135.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 7:23pm EDT
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LIVE (sort-of...)

PRE-RECORDED: All the way from our makeshift studio in Alex's bedroom it's...

The 2014 OMV NYCC PRE-CONVENTION END-OF-SUMMER BASH!

No but seriously. After missing out on last year's NYCC show we're finally making our glorious return to the mighty Javits Center in New York City. Well. Half of us anyway. Sadly Alex is sidelined for a few weeks and will have to experience the show through me. Which means he'll be getting blurry pictures of video game booths and expensive toys all day. Sounds like a good time!

Jon, the legend himself, is also attending the show and joined us this week to discuss the guest list/plan our routes/debate politics. etc. You get the deal.

As always, expect an ass-ton of pictures to be uploaded over the course of the day and be on the lookout for next week's wrap-up episode where I'll tell Alex about all the money I spent.

-Jr.

Direct download: 10.7.2014_Episode_134.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:58pm EDT
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This week's episode is a bit...different. About 2 minutes in you'll understand why. Not to worry though; 'tis only temporary. It goes without saying that we wish Alex a speedy recovery and we're anxious to get him back in the studio with us ASAP!

In less depressing news:

After we finished up with recording last night Colin and Joe took their mid/late twenty year-old bodies and slept over at my place. Why would these fully grown adults do such a thing? The answer is pretty simple: At midnight we all started giggling really loud while we downloaded the new Smash Brothers game on our Nintendo 3DS videogame consoles. I mean seriously. You probably should have guessed that.

Anyway. In the past 20 hours I'd say I've put around 8-10 of them into playing smash. That includes the brief time that my body required some sort of sleep.

It's good.

It's really good. Like. Way better than I ever expected a handheld version of Smash Bros. to be. Seriously. Check out these photos I snagged. Not only is the game a hell-of-a good time but it's also beautiful.

Bros

             Remembering where they hid different gametypes can be tricky.

Characters                    So many choices....and I haven't even unlocked all of them...

Going into the 3DS version one of the biggest concerns for me was the online aspect. Playing Brawl online was never a good time for me. It was plagued with laggy connections and confusing matchmaking that left such a bad taste in my mouth I rarely ever went near it. (To be fair I played maybe 3 matches online. I can't say I ever took a good chunk of time to try to figure it out)

However: I've played around 10 matches on the 3DS version and so far I'm very optimistic. While I'm still getting thrashed like usual it seems to be much easier to pair up with friends, find matches, and get to smashing.

Online 1

               Nintendo made the online menus nearly idiotproof aka Jr-proof

One aspect that I really enjoy is the "For Fun" or "For Glory" option. It's pretty simple: If you want to just go in and play around without worrying about stats than For Fun is for you. If you're a hardcore smasher who wants to brag about their W/L record or their K/D ratio you might want to head on over to For Glory. Either way there's something for just about everyone who might want to play online and you don't have to be a legendary Smash God to get any fun out of it.

online 2

                   Seriously, though. For Glory is the only way to go. *flex*

I'm already well on my way to having a fantastic record. I mean seriously. Check out these stats. I'm not going to say you should bow to me or start paying me for lessons but...

bad

You can expect a full review of the game in the coming weeks. Once we really get a chance to play every mode/smash all the things we'll put our mics in front of our faces and tell you all about it. Until then you should all go out. Buy a 3DS. Buy a copy of Smash Bros and thank us later.

-Jr.

Direct download: 10.2.2014_Episode_133.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:15pm EDT
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I just got back from a day of cider pressing. More detailed blog coming as soon as I dominate this nap.

After you finish this week's episode you can entertain yourself with a new video!

 -Jr.

Direct download: 9.26.2014_Episode_132.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 6:20pm EDT
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We've mentioned our love of Invincible and Ryan Ottley's artwork once or twice in the past...

Once or twice.

Anyway. During one of the many trips to Ottley's table at Boston last month Colin and I struck up a conversation with the dude behind the table with him. That dude's name is Rob and after talking with this dude for 10 minutes I knew this dude had to come on the show.

Listen to his story and take note. It pays to be nice and not that guy who just slams a stack of comics down in front of a creator. It's crazy how far a simple conversation will get you.

Also, it just so happens that Rob is the moderator of the Invincible Facebook page and Twitter account. HINT: If you're looking to see sketches/pages/covers/info you're going to want to give those pages a follow.

Now as much as I'd love to keep writing about how cool Rob is and how much we gush about Ryan Ottley this episode...the Smash Bros demo is out and I need to go get my Mega Man on.

OH! Before I bail here's another video we shot of Alex showing some of his recent finds:

-Jr.

Direct download: 9.19.2014_Episode_131.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 11:40am EDT
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True story: Will used to be a door-to-door salesman.

This fact is evident when he comes on and pitches something to us.

Last time Will was on he pitched the card game Fluxx. I now own two different versions of the game and I tend to bring one of them whenver I go to a social gathering. I've turned into "that guy" who always brings "that game" and asks everyone to play it with him. I have no shame. I've accepted this.

This week Will's pitch is a little bit different....But he sold it just as well and now, like Fluxx, I'm pretty hooked.

I'm pathetic.

Quick side note: expect a lot more YouTube content to be coming at you soon. We've already uploaded a few videos this week with more on the way. Check out Alex's recent flea market finds:

PART ONE:

PART TWO:

 -Jr.

Direct download: 9.10.2014_Episode_130.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 8:39pm EDT
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Last month at the Boston Comic Con we had a gentleman approach our table and ask us about our "Show us your art" sign. We told him about how we like to look at people's art and he informed us that he had some art to show.

Neat!

Well it turns out this gentleman wasn't lying. His name was Tom and he had a book. A tome. An encyclopedia sized sketchbook: Full. Of. Sketches.

It was....amazing. Our jaw's dropped and our eyes filled with tears (just kidding. OR AM I?) This man had a collection that would make any comic fan stand in awe. Pages upon pages of a themed sketchbook; each page with a different artist drawing a different "giant evil robot". So simple. Yet so genius.

Tom turned out to be a cool dude and he's a friend of Charlie from Sketchprices. It was a no-brainer: We had to have him on the show.

And we did.

And now you can listen to it.

Also, while you're listening: Check out Tom's comedy group. They could be coming to a convention near you so be on the lookout!

-Jr.

Direct download: 9.6.2014_Episode_129.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 7:28pm EDT
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Mike was back this week.

We talked about Marvel stuff.

Chris Pratt is too cool.

Yeah. This is happening.

A frequent topic

Makes its glorious return.

Kickstarter owns us.

 You wouldn't believe how long it took me to write those two terrible Haikus. But, they happened. So we'd best all just deal with it and move on.

Please don't let this post ruin 128 for you. I promise the episode is better than my attempt at syllabic poetry.

Mike episodes are always fun and full of Marvel goodness. Once again I'm made to feel foolish with my lack of S.H.I.E.L.D. knowledge.  That alone should make the everything worth it. Enjoy!

-Jr.

Direct download: 8.29.2014_Episode_128.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:46pm EDT
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It only took me the better part of a month but I finally caught up with the rest of the world and saw Guardians of the Galaxy.

I can't even begin to explain to you how frustrating it was having to wait this long. Joe and Colin were singing songs from the soundtrack literally all weekend long at BCC. Not to mention all the "oh man remember when" going back and forth. I now understand how someone who listens to this show might feel when we ruthlessly spoil movies just after they come out. (Hey, we're trying to get better. Remember our Spider-Man/Days of Future Past episode??)

But seriously though. There are a couple spoilers in this one but they're pretty easy to avoid: Simply skip to 40 minutes and you're gold. Boom. Roasted.

Oh hey there's also this time lapse video that we shot of the incomparable Brett Kelley at BCC. Bob of Dead Henchmen Productions threw it together for us with some slick graphics and stuff. It came out pretty neat!

 

-Jr.

Direct download: 8.21.2014_Episode_127.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 8:17pm EDT
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Ok. So where do I even start with this?

We went to the 2014 Boston Comic Con last weekend. When I do some quick number crunching it tells me that it was our 5th year in a row attending. One might think "Gee golly wow. After 5 years has it lost any of it's luster??"

The answer is a simple and tremendous "no".

table

With each passing year BCC only gets better.

Last year we discovered the mystical land of tabling at a convention. Not only was it a blast but it was also an awesome success. After little deliberation we decided meeting people and watching Brett Kelley draw all day was definitely worth the price of getting a table again this year.

brett

                           Front row seats to the best show in the house.

If you saw my post from a few weeks ago you probably noticed that we were placed near some high profile creators. Did we let this phase us?!? Maybe a little...but hey. When Gail Simone, Greg Capullo and Scott Snyder are RIGHT behind you...it's easy to get a little freaked out. Brett, on the other hand, was an art machine cranking out masterpiece after masterpiece despite all of the celebrity talent surrounding him.

art attack

100% Art Focus. In the Art Zone. Having an Art Attack.

With this being the first year of BCC running a three day event I was a bit nervous we'd all be pretty burnt out by Sunday. We've gone to 3-4 day events before but we always bailed after the 2nd day. Having a table sort of changes this and I'll be the first to admit I was nervous.

Jr

                    Everyone knows concrete is the perfect napping surface.

Luckily I'm an idiot.

Despite being absolutely exhausted on Sunday afternoon I found myself wishing there was a 4th day. Alex and I have joked around about the "real life depression" before and I'm a firm believer that it is a definite "thing". After spending the weekend with your best friends doing nothing but the stuff that makes you happiest...going back to real life blows. It blows ass. It blows the most ass.

ginyu

    After 3 straight days of convention you'd think we would have been delirious.

Oh, and you've probably noticed Colin and Joe helped us out yet again. I feel like Alex and I can't thank these guys enough for all the things they've done for us. It's truly an honor to be able to call them friends. They have helped mold OMV into the broadcasting powerhouse (bahaha) that it is today and without them we'd be nothing but two morons ranting about Chew and Kickstarter.

homies

                Walking up to our table and seeing these dudes never gets old.

Anyways. Enough sappy stuff. We have a fantastic 2 hour episode waiting for your faces and we'd love if you would listen to it. We also have a huge photo gallery on our Facebook page featuring a bunch of new friends and even some former guests!

Enjoy the episode, everyone. Thanks again to everyone who stopped by booth C821 and we hope to see you all next summer!

sillyness

-Jr.

Direct download: 8.16.2014_Episode_126.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 6:49pm EDT
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So.

I just got back from the comic shop.

Saw a few of the DC Selfie Variant covers.

I uh.

*deep breath*

Words have escaped me.

Enjoy this week's episode everyone. Steve stopped by and he's always cool as hell.

I need to go take a shower and wash away the Selfies.

Selfie Variant Covers.

Those exist. They're real life.

-Jr.

Direct download: 8.6.2014_Episode_125.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 8:03pm EDT
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I must've made about 20 time travel jokes last night. I couldn't be stopped.

See. Our friend Charlie lives in California. Having never lived anywhere but Connecticut I have exactly 0 idea what it is like to be on the literal other side of the country. The three hour time difference was like a ripe joke-fruit begging to be plucked and relentlessly pounded into the ground until no one was laughing anymore.

Mission accomplished.

If you never heard episode 71 here's some info you should know: Charlie is a cool ass dude. He started a page devoted to sketchprices. And he's a huge fan of Jeffrey Brown. Boom. Knowledge'd. You should still listen to the episode though. It's dope. Is dope dead yeat? Should I stop saying it??

I'm gonna keep saying it.

And for the record: No. I have not seen Guardians of the Galaxy yet and No. I haven't seen the post-credits scenes. Time to quit the internet until I can manage to check it out.

-Jr

Direct download: 8.1.2014_Episode_124.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 3:05pm EDT
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I'm currently sitting at home on my computer. I'm not walking around a huge convention center in San Diego. This makes me so sad. So very sad.

There's light at the end of this dark, sad tunnel though...Boston Comic Con is but two weeks away and that makes me so happy. Why? Because we're tabling there of course. Remember when we did that last year and it was awesome? We're doing it again. I even made a neat little graphic showing where you can find us:

Boston Table!

Pretty neat, right??

Anyway. This week's episode was a ton of fun. There was a lot less swearing than last week and Will's pitch was so good he had me hooked not 10 minutes after the episode ended. Proof? Here you go:

Proof

If you have no idea what that is and can't read the name on the back of the black card on the left than you should have a listen and get your learn on. It's totes worth it. I also totes hate that I just used the word totes. It'll never happen again.

Maybe.

Enjoy episode 123. It's the classiest stuff we've ever done.

-Jr.

Direct download: 7.25.2014_Episode_123.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 1:12pm EDT
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Last year I gave ConnectiCon a solid B- grade. It was a fun convention that focused heavily on cosplay and anime that showed a lot of potential.

This year, ConnectiCon completely blew me out of the water.

Banner

It's pretty typical for me to over-exaggerate when it comes to writing these things but I think it's safe to say that ConnectiCon has made improvements to almost every aspect of their show. The most significant, in my opinion, being the vendor room. Last year Alex and I made a pass or two around the vendor room in about an hour or so later and were content with what we saw. This year, however, we were there for two days and I still feel like I didn't catch everything.

Vendor 1

Vendor 2

FYI: Those were taken after the floor had closed. It was pretty packed on Saturday to the point where a few times it was reminiscent of a much, much larger convention.

Not only was the vendor room busy but the tabletop area, which at some points last year was a baron wasteland, was also buzzing with constant activity. RPGs, board games and homemade creations were all the rage.

Tabletop

Oh, did I mention the guys from Super Art Fight were there? Yeah if you haven't already noticed or listened to episode 102 it's evident that we're pretty big fans. It was our 2nd time seeing them this year and we got to introduce Colin and Jon to the madness that is their live show. A word to the wise: If they're ever in your area...take the time and go see them. It's a shitton of fun.

SAF

SAF2

SAF3

SAF4

This is just a sample of what we saw this year at ConnectiCon. I'd keep going but then you wouldn't have any incentive to listen to the episode would you? Exactly.

Anyway, check out this week's episode for our full review of the show and go HERE for our full photo album including some cosplay, some swag, and some insanely dapper pictures of Colin. Like, seriously. I can take a damn good picture of that dude. It's borderline inappropriate.

Huge thanks to Leo and the rest of his crew for giving us this opportunity again and for putting on a fantastic show. We hope to see you all there next year!

-Jr.

Direct download: 7.18.2014_Episode_122.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 2:07pm EDT
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Hey all.

Just got home from a crazy day one of ConnectiCon.

I'd write more but really I'd just be repeating everything that's said in the episode. Kyle and Justin are two badass special effect/makeup artists and this week they were kind enough to talk to us about it.

Now if you'll excuse me I need to go sleep for about 26 hours to prepare for day two of ConnectiCon. Expect pictures and recap episode soon!

-Jr.

Direct download: 7.10.2014_Episode_121.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 12:01am EDT
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If you're even slightly into the cosplay scene there's a pretty big chance you've seen this week's guests walking around at a convention or featured on your favorite cosplay website. Josh and Tori, the husband and wife duo from Cool By Proxy Productions, are quickly becoming two of the most recognizable cosplay figures in the northeast. Take a quick glance at their website (previous link) and you'll see what I'm talking about.

I'll wait here while you go check it out.

.

.

.

.

Awesome, right?

What's even more awesome is all of that is made in house. By hand.....I'll let that sink in for a second.......

Alright I suppose I can stop being a smart ass.

Seriously, though. Have a listen. Give 'em a Like on Facebook. Keep your eyes peeled. You never know when you might bump into them next! (Actually that's a lie. They tell us exactly where they're going to be soon. But you'll have to listen to the episode for that. See what I did there? Genius.)

-Jr.

Direct download: 7.2.2014_Episode_120.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 12:03pm EDT
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Yeah I'm really almost late with this week's episode.

Not to worry though. Our record is still intact. Just for you.

Oh shit Jon is back from Florida and he came on and TALKED TO US.

Listen to him talk to us!

Direct download: 6.27.2014_Episode_119.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:03pm EDT
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So E3 happened. Remember last year when we had Joe on after E3 happened? Well we did that again. Being Nintendo fanboys this was a particularly awesome event as they absolutely killed it. Killed it. Murdered it. Nintendo had no remorse as they were standing over the mangled corpses of Playstation and XBox. No tears were shed. No love was lost.

No but seriously. If you're looking for insane Nintendo fanboygasms then this is the episode for you. If you're looking for all the latest news on the "new" Call of Duty game you're probably better off asking the local 12 year olds about how good your mother was in bed last night. *Generic Call of Duty burns never get old.*

Oh and one more thing. Adam WarRock just wrapped up his yearly Donation Drive. Even though the official end date has passed you can still donate through tomorrow, 6/21/2014. Click here to support WarRock. He's a fucking awesome guy who writes fucking awesome music. Trust me when I say it's completely worth it. Not only do you get to feel good about donating some chash to a good cause but you get a bunch of rewards to go with it. Who doesn't like rewards? Rewards fucking rule.

-Jr.

Direct download: 6.19.2014_Episode_118.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 11:20am EDT
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Hey remember that time when I thought I had a pretty decent knowledge of The Transformers mythology? That was neat.

Then I met Adam.

Adam promptly put me through Transformers 101 and the end result is episode 117. Have yourself a listen and be amazed at Adam's knowledge of those frisky Robots in Disguise.

Tune in next week as there is a shit-ton of videogame news to talk about!

-Jr.

Direct download: 6.11.2014_Episode_117.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 8:50pm EDT
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It took some effort but I was able to pull myself away from Mario Kart 8 long enough to get this episode uploaded.

Jared is back this week! (Remember him?? He's the director of The Earth Rejects HimGirl in the Basement etc etc) Seeing as Jared is a fan of the cinema we thought it would be fitting to discuss comic books. See what I did there? Classic misdirection. I make the same joke in the episode too and it's just as hilarious if not even funnier.

But seriously. We talk about movies this week. We talk about recent movies and even movies that deal with comic books. So technically I wasn't lying. 

Anyways. Have a listen. And be sure to listen to the end because Jared's pitch is absolutely brilliant. No joke here. Listen to what he says and go check it out.

You're welcome.

-Jr.

Direct download: 6.5.2014_Episode_116.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 12:14pm EDT
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Hey all. Just finished demolishing this episode. It's late. We've been up all day. Ima write more later. Enjoy the episode for now!

-Jr.

Direct download: 5.31.2014_Episode_115.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:10pm EDT
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The 2014 Steampunk World's Fair has come and gone and while I may have spent half of it soaked through to the bone, I have to say it was completely worth it.

We gushed pretty hard last year after the 2013 show and I was a bit nervous that it would be impossible for this year's show to live up to the hype. Lucky for me: I was wrong.

The main thing I love so much about these events is the feeling of relaxation they bring. Comic-Cons have a sense of urgency to them. You're always on the move trying to get to the next artist and make it to panels on time etc etc. But at SPWF, while there are performances happening around the clock, I never stressed or had any anxiety about missing anything. If there was a band I wanted to see on the other side of the Fair, I simply strolled through the courtyard, glanced at the vendors and made my way to where I needed to be. There was no running, no panic. Just enjoyment.

Alex joked with me about "The depression". When you come back to the real world after a weekend at the Fair it can mess with you. And he's 100% right. Visiting a world so full of fantasy and wonder makes it near impossible to go back to the repetitive, problematic "real world". When I'm at events like this things like car payments, rent, credit cards etc never cross my mind. For those three days they simply don't exist. It can be quite a shock when you're forced to remember that you're an adult with adult responsiblities. Eventually you get used to it again. But it helps to think that there's only 11 months until next year's show.

We owe a huge thanks to Tom Sales and everyone at Jeff Mach Events for putting on such a fantastic show. We can't wait until next year!

-Jr.

Direct download: 5.18.2014_Episode_114.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:20am EDT
Comments[1]

Hey everyone!

Brett is back this week. He went to the Adam WarRock show with us at Modern Myths in NoHo so we figured he should come on and talk about it with us. Perfect, right? I know!

Anyways, we're literally leaving to go to the Steampunk World's Fair in a few minutes so I gotta keep this short and ever-so-sweet. We'll be recording another episode with our post-show reactions early next week so be on the look-out! And if you're going to SPWF keep an eye out for three of the sexiest mother fuckers on the planent. (Hint: That's us)

-Jr.

Direct download: 5.15.2014_Episode_113.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 7:58am EDT
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PAX East officially "kicked off" our convention season. There's always that 4-5 month lull where it's cold, there's few conventions happening, and everyone is miserable and dying inside. Those are the bad months. Those are the months I try to forget.

Then something magical happens. The weather starts to get warmer, people tend to smile more.....and con season finally begins. It's kind of awesome. It's kind of one of my favorite things. It kind of makes those long winters almost worth it. Almost.

Anyway. Our guests this week know a thing or two about conventions seeing as they have a TV show detailing their convention adventures and they work for ConnectiCon over in Hartford. Pretty neat, right?? We ventured to ConnectiCon for the first time last year and decided it was one to add to the yearly list. We were already jazzed for the show but after hearing Leo and Tasya talk about it for the better part of an hour it really got us pumped. Plus, Super Art Fight is going to be there again. Remember when we chatted with a couple of those guys? That was pretty neat!

So yeah. Have a listen. Learn about Con-Men. Learn about ConnectiCon. And have a good time. Maybe we'll see you there in July!

-Jr.

Direct download: 5.7.2014_Episode_112.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:20am EDT
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HEY I GOTTA GO SEE SPIDER-MAN 2. LISTEN TO THIS WEEK'S EPISODE AND YOU WILL BE HAPPY. OK BYE.

-Jr.

Direct download: 5.2.2014_Episode_111.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:05pm EDT
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We're a little late to the party with our Winter Soldier thoughts but you can trust us when we say it was intentional. Rather than have an episode full of vague "oh that part where this happened was awesome" we decided to wait it out a few weeks, give people time to see it, then do our review episode full of spoilery goodness. Not to worry, though: If you still haven't seen Winter Soldier and you don't want anything spoiled simply skip to the 30 minute mark and enjoy our comic talk and this weeks Pitch.

Remember a few weeks (months?) back when I mentioned I was on a huge Street Fighter kick? Yeah, I finally committed and bought the damn game. After waiting for 5 1/2 hours for the game to download I was finally ready to Dragon Punch everyone into oblivion. My initial thought process went as follows:

"Yeah, I guess I'll just set it to Easy so I can warm up and destroy everything. You know, get back into the swing of things"

"Oh hey Ryu, you're lookin' pretty sexy right there...."

"Psh, first match is against Vega? This is going to be cake"

"Hey there Vega. How did all of those DRAGON PUNCHES TASTE??"

"Next victim, please"

"Who the fuck is Dudley? Doesn't matter. Soon he'll be Dead...ley? Fuck it"

"Here we go, round 1 baby......have some DRAGON PUNCHESoh what the fuck was that?....fluke. Round 2: Here comes the pain. Time to die, Dudley"

"....."

"FUCK THIS GAME"

*Netflix* *Cries* *My youth has abandoned me*

So yeah. That's how my Easter 2014 went. Hope yours was equally awesome.

-Jr.

Direct download: 4.26.2014_Episode_110.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 12:12pm EDT
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PAX East was fucking awesome.

We've been hyping it up quite a bit over the past few weeks and it was completely justified. PAX was amazing. I've been going to conventions for around 5 years now and I like to think I know what to expect when I go to these things. I've been to comic cons, Steampunk shows, multi-genre conventions and "comic shows" that are just dudes selling shit out of longboxes on fold-out tables. PAX was just going to be another show to enjoy and spend too much money on.

Holy shit I was wrong.

PAX was like nothing I've ever been to before. First of all it was PACKED. We went on Friday, the first day, which we've learned from past conventions that the first day is normally the "least busy". Nope. PAX was absolutely packed to the point where sometimes it was reminiscent of a Saturday at NYCC only not nearly as smelly. Second, it was massive. The tabletop gaming area alone was bigger than some conventions I've been to and even that area was full of people. Then there were the panels....but.... I could go on and on about our experiences but then you would have no motivation to listen to this week's episode so it's probably best that I cut it off here. Don't be mad. If you're mad would it make it better if we told you Vicky is back and she got to go all three days and attend the panels we wish we got to see? If that's not enough to get you to listen then I guess we've failed you. Or you've failed yourself....yeah. I'm going with that. I like that one better.

-Jr.

 

Direct download: 4.15.2014_Episode_109.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 11:40am EDT
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GUYS I DON'T HAVE TIME TO WRITE ANYTHING NOW I'M TOO BUSY PACKING FOR PAX.

Expect tons of pictures and stuff in the coming days. And maybe even an update to this blog post if I'm feeling ambitious.

Now if you'll excuse me I have to get ready to cram 3 days of PAX into 8 hours.

-Jr.

Direct download: 4.9.2014_Episode_108.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:07pm EDT
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A while back our friend Ryan hit us up and was like "oh hey guys. I have these friends who do this thing and you should check them out." We checked them out. We watched their videos. We asked them to come on the show. They came on the show. It was awesome.

Zack and Kyla are the duo behind Getting Your Nerd On. They make videos, record podcasts, and make fun of the Xbox One so obviously we had to have them join us. Originally shooting single-take videos on an iPhone; in just a few months time Zack and Kyla have evolved into content machines with almost 250 subscribers on YouTube. Go here and check out their channel. Also like them on Facebook and follow their Twitch channel so you can watch them stream videogames and deal with perverts.

With the Super Bowl happening this past Sunday we got to see lots of fun new trailers for fun new movies. Extended/new previews for Winter Soldier, Amazing Spider-Man and even the new Transformers flick all aired and it would be putting it lightly to say I'm really, really........really excited. I know the general idea of a trailer/preview is to make you want to see the film regardless of how terrible the final product might be. Despite being well aware of this; I still can't wait. I mean honestly, if Optimus Prime wielding a giant sword while riding Grimlock like his noble steed doesn't at least get your attention then perhaps you've set your expectations a bit too high. Say what you will about the Transformers movies. At the end of the day there's a good chance we'll all be there on opening day praying there isn't a Shia LaBeouf cameo.

-Jr.

Direct download: 2.4.2014_Episode_99.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 4:07pm EDT
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Our 2 year anniversary is coming up in a few weeks and I honestly can't even fathom it. If you told me when Justin and Alex showed up at my place to record the first episode that we would still be going strong two years later without missing a week I'd laugh, call you stupid, laugh some more, then maybe apologize for being so rude. Maybe.

But hey here we are and there's no end in sight. This makes me happy. So happy in fact that we're doing another giveaway as a thanks to all of you who have stuck with us for 98 weeks of relentless awesome. Have yourself a listen to this episode to find out how to enter and when we record episode 105 we'll be announcing the winner(s). How good is that? It's like. So good.

We recorded this episode just in time to completely miss out on the Lex Luther/Jesse Eisenberg announcement which is pretty awesome. If you're listening in to hear about our opinions on the matter then you might be wasting your time. Notice how I said "might". Now you have to listen to the whole thing just to make sure I'm not lying. See what I did there? Brilliant, right? I'm not telling you to say I'm a genius, but I certainly wouldn't stop you if you tried. 

Enough rambling. Enjoy the episode!

-Jr.

Direct download: 1.30.2014_Episode_98.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 5:36pm EDT
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I've been following competitive gaming since around 2008 when Str8 Rippin' won the MLG Halo 3 National Championship. I like to call those "the glory days" but I know many people will disagree with me and say either one of two things: The glory days were during the Halo 2 era or the glory days haven't even happened yet as MLG has only gotten bigger with the release of newer games such as Starcraft 2 and League of Legends but that's beside the point. Not many of my friends know I've been following the scene and the ones who do know usually get bored with my ramblings within minutes. Apparently there's only so much the casual gamer can handle when it comes to 17-25 year old dudes who play video games for a living. Who knew?

What I'm getting at is that it's rare when I get to sit down and completely nerd out about the competitve scene with someone else who follows it. And lucky me: I got to do just that with this week's guest Larry "Xeraxus" Clark.

Larry is an avid gamer, caster, streamer, and he even writes for Team Dignitas. He was gracious enough to join us this week and give us a huge lesson on competitve gaming and what it's like to actually be a part of the scene unlike myself who just sits in front of his computer eating doritos thinking "....what the hell is a mothership core?"

Be sure to check out Larry's Twitch channel where he regularly streams and casts tournaments and while you're at it go to the Dignitas blog section and read up on his work!

Until next week.

-Jr.

Direct download: 1.24.2014_Episode_97.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:51am EDT
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I just got back from the new Super Wal-Mart that was recently built near my house. I went in with the intent of buying a plunger and walking out with said plunger in hand ready to conquer the clog that had overtaken my toilet. Wal-Mart had other plans for me. After Wal-Mart finished casting it's spells and having it's way with my mind; I was walking to my car with a plunger.....paper towels, toilet paper, Arnold Palmer Green Tea/Lemonade, white grape juice, and a fire extinguisher designed to put out kitchen fires. *sigh*

At least I have delicious beverages to sip on while I watch endless hours of Top Gear. Let it be known, though, that if you even begin to question me as to "which Top Gear I'm watching" I undoubtedly will throw my drink at you and immediately begin shouting in the most obnoxious British accent I can manage. It would proabaly sound like Michael Caine getting run over by a locomotive while a mountain lion had his way with his intestines...But you'd get the idea.

-Jr.

Direct download: 1.15.2014_Episode_96.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:05pm EDT
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Hey so remember when we had Kt on for episode 74? Yeah, well she's back. If you're too lazy to click that link here's what you need to know: Kt launched a Kickstarter project so she could make/star in a movie she wrote. The Kickstarter was crazy successful and raised 3x the amout she initially asked for. She filmed the movie (with Alex doing special effects and Jared Skolnick directing), the movie is currently in post-production and now Kt is back to talk about it. Got it? Make sense? Good. Now listen to the episode.

Want to know more about the movie? Go to The Girl in the Basement's Facebook page and edumacate yourself.

Honestly I'd love to write more but I can't stop watching the AGDQ stream. (Awesome Games Done Quick...I briefly touch on it in this episode) Right now a man who goes by the gamertag "Peaches_" is beating the shit out of Mario 64....WITH ONE HAND. HE'S BEATING THE GAME WITH ONE HAND IN LESS THAN A HALF HOUR. So. There's that. Sometimes I like to think I'm good at videogames. Then a guy named Peaches_ comes along and singlehandedly (pun definitely 100% intended) makes me look like a fool.

That's all for this week. Hope you enjoy.

-Jr.

Direct download: 1.10.2014_Episode_95.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 4:30pm EDT
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I took part in a D&D game for the first time last night. I like to think of it as a right of passage. Like I can officially give an opinion on it now that I've played the game. Everyone knows that D&D has a certain stigma. When most people hear D&D they immediately think of the overweight, acne scarred shut-ins chugging Mountain Dew in their parent's basement with a few equally repulsive friends pretending they're mythical creatures fighting other mythical creatures in vast mythical lands. It's a shame, though. After a solid 6+ hour sitting I can easliy say that I had a great time and I look forward to playing again. I'll admit the role playing aspect is a little difficult for me to get used to but I can see myself getting the hang of it in time. I genuinely feel that as long as you're playing with the right people literally anyone can have a great time playing D&D. Just don't trust anyone. Especially Alex. Fuckin' little gnome being all secretive and shit...

Oh, and don't be that guy who forgets to bring cash to help cover for pizza. Cuz that was me. Whoops.

-Jr.

Direct download: 1.4.2014_Episode_94.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:07pm EDT
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So yeah, this is an episode we've been talking about doing forever. In a way it's going to be somewhat of a "two-parter" as we're going to have Brett on next week to get his input on the subject. It's going to be awesome and you'd have to be a super silly head to miss it. (For the record, you don't want to be a silly head so you'd best not miss out.)

Christmas has come and gone and I'm sad. Not too sad, though. I have new video games to play which means I'll be ranting/raving about them on the show soon. Anyone who knows me is aware that I'm prone to outbursts that I later regret and I'm sure I won't disappoint when it comes to reviewing the games I'm playing. Not that I'm expecting to hate them but I'm usually pretty good at finding small things that don't matter at all to complain about. Don't judge me. Shut up.

Oh, my Flashquestions kind of bombed this week. I hit Alex and Adam with "End of the Year" awards questions but didn't give them any time to prepare answers. I was hoping for gut reactions but who knew they'd actually want to think about a decent answer before spouting the first thing that came to mind. Yes. I'm an idiot. Anyways, here's mine:

JAYARE'S 2013 END OF THE YEAR AWARDS:

  • BEST VIDEOGAME: Bioshock: Infinite
  • BEST MOVIE: Pacific Rim
  • BEST COMIC WRITER: Brian K. Vaughan
  • BEST COMIC ARTIST: Rob Guillory (Yep. No surprises there)
  • BEST COMIC: Saga

Direct download: 12.28.2013_Episode_93.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 5:03pm EDT
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I'm terrible at keeping up with television programs that I should be watching. If it's a new show and it doesn't rhyme with Chalking Bed then I can assure you I haven't seen it. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is now 10 episodes deep and is currently on it's whole "mid-season hiatus" thing that everyone hates so much. Of those 10 episodes I've seen one. The first one. The pilot. Luckily Mike has seen them all and I think Alex has caught up with it, too. So really I'm the only one who is slacking. Shut up. I've been busy. You don't know me.

I recently decided to join the rest of the world and started the "Song of Ice and Fire" series. For those that don't know I'm talking about Game of Thrones. I've read the first book so far....you know...the one called A Game of Thrones....and it was just as good as everyone says it is. It's also just as brutal. I've often heard of how George R.R. Martin treats his characters but I always figured "meh. How bad could it possibly be?"....Then I read the book. And was promptly crushed. And emotionally abused. The sad part is I already knew about the main "holy shit" death in the first book but it still hit me right in the feelings. Part of me wants to stop while I'm ahead...but we all know that can't happen. I must continue to power through and hope weeping like an infant becomes acceptable behavior for a 27 year old adult.

-Jr.

Direct download: 12.20.13_Episode_92.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:57pm EDT
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A few weeks ago I stumbled upon this documentary about the Super Smash Brothers: Melee tournament scene. After showing it to Alex we both decided it was something we should obsess over and talk about on the show. Also, in an incredible feat of flawless timing, Samox, the creator of the documentary, did an AMA on Reddit this afternoon. In typical OMV fashion we figured we could spend the first part of the episode talking about it and giving some reactions. Also in typical OMV fashion we ended up talking about it for the entire hour. So. Hope you're ready to hear us talk about Nintendo characters beating the piss out of each other.

Happy Friday the 13th!

-Jr

Direct download: 12.13.2013_Episode_91.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 8:37pm EDT
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Seymour has been a mutual friend of ours for a long time and really it's unacceptable that we've gone this long without having him on the show. Luckily, he was nice enough to forgive us. So. Here are a few things you should know about him: He once wore a watch that only told time in Binary. He owns more bandanas than you. And not only is he a wizard with a crescent wrench, but he also has his own webcomic. (If you look close enough in some strips, you might notice some familiar faces....) Once you hear the flash questions he hits us with you'll understand why he's been a friend for so long.

I've been stuck in bed almost all week with a revolting virus. I didn't even know they cast someone as Wonder Woman until we started discussing it in pre-show. I know, right? It's amazing how  being sick can really cut you off from the world. Every time I left my bedroom I felt like Robin Williams in Jumanji. I had no sense of time, my head was pounding, and more importantly I completely missed out on all the news that was going down this week. Next time my body decides to get sick right when the Holiday season starts I'm literally going to punch it in the balls. Literally.

Oh, don't worry. I saw the midseason finale of Walking Dead and it was glorious. I've been pretty harsh on the show this season due to it being some of the most boring, useless, dogshit ever produced; but I'll gladly deal with the dogshit if it means I get consistent finales like the one they just aired. I'm not going to go into much detail to avoid spoilers but honestly it's worth powering through to get to the end. You can do it. Never give up. Trust your insincts. (OH SHIT STAR FOX REFERENCE)

-Jr.

Direct download: 12.6.2013_Episode_90.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 5:16pm EDT
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Keeping it short and sweet for the Holiday. Pretty much everything I have to say is in the episode anyway so I'd just be repeating myself here. Hope you enjoy!

Direct download: 11.26.2013_Episode_89.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:58am EDT
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I'd be lying if I said I wasn't already listening to Christmas music, burning Christmas candles, and debating breaking out the Christmas decorations. It's November 22nd. It's not even Thanksgiving yet. I'm that guy who starts celebrating way too soon. I'm the reason why stores have Christmas product out at the end of September. Despite the fact that I've worked retail for the past 7 years, my Christmas spirit will never be broken. I regret nothing. And for the record, working retail during the Holiday season is awesome.

Brett is back this week. If that doesn't get you excited about listening to this episode then I don't know what will. Maybe try skydiving or something as you're clearly difficult to excite. Let me know how that goes. We talked about a lot of random stuff and I even got a bit heated for a moment. It's pretty ridiculous. When I get passionate about things I tend to get red faced and yell and ramble. I also tend to contradict myself...a lot. Maybe I'm not the most consistent person out there but hey, we all get rageface every now and then. That's my excuse for being a bad person.

Oh and the Xbox One came out this morning (last night?)...so there's that. I don't know a single person who got one or is even thinking about getting one. I like to think this is because I associate with smart people who don't buy shitty things. Hey oh! Shots fired. I'm going to die alone. At least I'll have a bitchin' Christmas tree.

-Jr.

Direct download: 11.21.2013_Episode_88.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:46pm EDT
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Back in the day (2 years ago) we agreed that with our respective occupations and budget limitations we would do two conventions a year: The Boston Comic Con and the New York Comic Con. At the time, they were 6 months apart from each other giving us plenty of time to save, prep, and get excited for each one every year. Since OMV has started to grow ever so slightly, we've started expanding our horizons. If you're an avid listener you've heard our episodes wrapping up The Steampunk World's Fair in New Jersey and ConnectiCon in Hartford. We've started throwing around different conventions that we would like to attend some day and the Rhode Island Comic Con has come up once or twice. Sadly, since it usually falls in October (busy season for Alex as he's kind of a big deal when it comes to making zombies) it's just not in the cards at the moment. Luckily, we have friends! Friends who can attend RICC! Friends who can come on and tell us about it! Huzzah!

Also, I started the Game of Thrones books this week. I expect to laugh, cry, and throw books across the room as all of the characters I'm going to come to love are quickly and brutally murdered in front of my very eyes. I'm pretty excited.

-Jr.

Direct download: 11.15.2013_Episode_87.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:35pm EDT
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I really can't say enough about this episode. I think the only way it could have been better is if Colin were here, too. Sadly, there just isn't enough room in the studio. Next time, friend. Next time.

I'm keeping this short today because pretty much everything I have to say about Pokemon is in the episode. So. Enjoy.

Oh, anyone else watching Walking Dead? Is anyone else bored as shit? Like. Something happen. Please. For the love of God.

-Jr.

Direct download: 11.5.2013_Episode_86.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 7:05pm EDT
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I'd love to stay and chat but I have to run and go see The Shining for the first time with Colin. No worries, I'm bringing a spare change of pants in case of terror induced bowel movements.

Too far? Probably.

Anyway, Jesse joins us this week for the first time in 49(!) episodes to talk about the same thing we talked about last time he was on: Call of Duty. (Only this time we're talking about Ghosts...Last time it was Black Ops 2....though to be fair, we kinda talk about Black Ops 2 even more this time....)

Enjoy!

-Jr.

Direct download: 10.29.2013_Episode_85.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 5:57pm EDT
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I finally managed to peel myself out of my sick cocoon (otherwise known as my bed) and get this week's episode uploaded. Yeah, Will was just on last week, but since we didn't get to everything we wanted to talk about we figured it would be a good plan to have him back and continue where we left off.

I promise we're going to talk about Pokemon soon. I mean, how can I put 35 hours into something in one week and not talk about it, right? Don't worry. It's going to happen

Due to my weakened state I'm going to keep this short. If this upsets you because you actually read these things I apologize. Would it make everything better if I linked the new Captain America trailer that was released like 5 minutes ago? Yeah, I thought so.

-Jr.

Direct download: 10.23.2013_Episode_84.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 12:55pm EDT
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Today was really long but I wanted to get the episode uploaded asap. I'm sure I'll have tons to say about Pokemon really soon.

Direct download: 10.15.2013_Episode_83.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 8:59pm EDT
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I don't get excited about many things. That's a blatant lie. Want to hear another lie? I'm glad I'm sitting at home and not attending The New York Comic Con. That was a good one, right? *Insert some bogus There's Always Next Year type deal*

While I'm missing out on NYCC this year, I'm still excited to read all the stories and announcements coming out over the next few days. One might find it a bit ironic that I'm going to be refreshing Bleeding Cool constantly until Sunday night but in the 3 years I've attended NYCC I've yet to make it into a panel....I guess I get too caught up in spending every cent I've earned on custom made pictures of things. I have no regrets.

The new Pokemon games come out in like, 2 days. It would be putting it lightly to say I'M REALLY FUCKING EXCITED. After several laborious hours of trying to decide which version of the game I'll be purchasing, X or Y, I think I've finally made my decision. Of all the decisions I've ever made I think it is safe to say this was the single hardest one. (Only a slight exaggeration there, btw.) The boys over at Nintendo are geniuses. They tease us with every add-on they create. Oh, what's that? You're pretty set on getting Y? OH WELL HERE'S A BADASS VERSION OF CHARIZARD THAT YOU CAN ONLY GET IN X. Oh, hey now. You're gonna get X? WELL HERE'S A NASTY LEGENDARY POKEMON THAT YOU CAN ONLY GET IN Y. It's like they enjoy torture. It's like I enjoy this torture. Either way, I might be calling in a substitute for next week's episode as I'll be completely immersed in a land of mythical dueling creatures with special abilities one might question if they were to exist in the real world.

-Jr.

Direct download: 10.9.2013_Episode_82.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:59am EDT
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Despite our show's moniker we rarely get into any form of heated debate on many topics. For the most part we tend to agree on things but every now and then when the topic is juicy enough...an actual debate begins to form. We then take this infant debate and nurture it. We cuddle it and try and raise it into a full blown debate complete with multiple facts and varying arguements. It makes me happy when we have these sorts of conversations because A) It makes for great Podcast material and B) It shows how passionate people can get over certain subjects. These subjects may seem silly to some people, but we'd like to think that they're off being miserable somewhere else and not wasting their time with our little show.

I finished Grand Theft Auto V yesterday. I had no idea I was even close to the end then all of a sudden the camera starts panning up and "end of game" triumphant music starts playing while some credits start rolling. I have to admit I was kind of "meh" on the situation. One might say I found the end of the game to be a tad unsatisfying.....Now, don't get me wrong; I absolutely loved the game but the ending seemed to come out of nowhere. It's as if the developers forgot they had to end the story and just threw one in where they saw fit. Despite finishing the main storyline, I'm still only about 65% done with the entire game as I have mountains of side missions to complete. Not to mention the online mode was released yesterday. As far as GTA:V goes, I'd say I have at least another solid month of playing before it even begins to get boring. This makes me happy. Very happy.

-Jr.

Direct download: 10.1.2013_Episode_81.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:24am EDT
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I have to run to work. Post to follow shortly.

Direct download: 9.26.2013_Episode_80.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 11:22am EDT
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We're almost 80 episodes deep into this thing. Can you believe that?

I feel kind of bad for my 3DS. Ever since I finished Fire Emblem it has just been sitting there on my desk giving me the pouty face. I'm not one who can replay games on a whim. Honestly I could probably count the number of games I've played through more than once on one hand. I thought Fire Emblem would be different because there are so many different routes you can take with your characters but I ran into the same roadblock that I always hit when I try to replay something: I get bored. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, however. With the new Smash Bros. and Pokemon games coming out in the near future, really my 3DS should be thanking me for the extended layoff since I'm going to be abusing it so much in the coming months. So, YOU'RE WELCOME, 3DS. 

Also, this fall weather is THE SHIT AMAZING. If you haven't experienced autumn in New England you need to get on that. Until then I don't think we can be friends. Nothing personal. You understand, right? Aw, c'mon baby, don't be upset.

Damnit. I gotta go handle this. Enjoy episode 79, ya'll.

-Jayare.

Direct download: 9.18.2013_Episode_79.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:17am EDT
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I don't really have a whole lot to say that isn't already in this week's episode. Lucky for me Alex wrote this piece on volunteering at conventions and events. Enjoy!

Speaking with Charlie from Sketchprices.com on episode 71 (and the pre-show) reminded me of my own experiences volunteering for a convention. This is an aspect I had completely forgotten about for the simple yet terribly misguided thought that it’s something I don’t plan on doing anymore. (I’ll get to why later on.) Also my work with Zombie Charge encouraged me to finish this as of episode 78.

Charlie was able to choose a shift for each day he volunteered and would choose a morning shift which would allow him the rest of the day to experience the huge event. This seems like a better deal than when I volunteered for Wizard World Philadelphia 20XX, it was at least ten years ago, where I got about an hour mid-day and then some time near closing when I wasn’t needed anymore. In later years I’d go back to Philly to volunteer for Wizkids, the company that makes and runs the Heroclix miniature figures game I used to play. Wizkids would host games and tournaments and needed envoy/judges to run them, stay organized, pass out prizes, and do demonstrations on the show floor. For the most part I had fun, I met some people, I liked working the gaming area, I’d get some figures of my own for working and I got into the event for free. Yes, volunteering is a free pass into the show.

There are perks and minuses to volunteering. If you don’t have the money but really  want to go, this will get you in for free. However it will act as your job for the day. You’ll need to be on time, stay when they need you and man your post. As a guest or ticketholder you can wander all you want, arrive when you want, leave when you want, do laps around the floor make trips to your car go down the street for food with complete freedom.  But volunteering ties you down until you’re granted a lunch break or a few minutes to check out the con.  Sometimes if you’re lucky you’ll get something in addition to a pass, sometimes it’s a t-shirt, I got a hardcover “100 covers of Wizard” book for staying after the show was over to direct parking for vendors to pack up. Depending on your job you could meet the artists/stars/editors/talent while working. One girl I met would close out the “end of the line” spots for signings and guard the signing table, by the end of the weekend her shirt was covered with signatures and Jim Lee drew a huge Batman profile on the back of her shirt. I brought ice to “Stone Cold” Steve Austin… Alright that one isn’t interesting… when Wizard World had portfolio reviews I got to watch Axel Alonso make people cry. That was when Alonso was an editor of a stable of comics, I don’t remember which one but a stable is considered being the main editor of all the X-books or all the Spider-books, He’s now the Marvel editor-in-chief. While you are on the show floor or at the entrance or where ever you can still interact with people and take pictures. A group of volunteers in Boston in the past cosplay while volunteering, example: Rogue from the X-Men directed me to where Frank Quietly was signing. People watching becomes a sport, maybe make a bingo chart or scavenger hunt.

            With the good comes the bad though. I also spent 5 hours guarding stairs no one used. They led to a special lounge for staff and talent and we didn’t want any fanboys sneaking up there. Those were very boring hours and I didn’t know better to go buy something interested to read while I stood there. I did meet the Wizard Magazine owners mom…while standing at stairs.
As with any other customer service job you are responsible for everything that ever happens. If an artist is late, had to leave early or cancels it may be you that has to tell a con-goer or all the con-goers. Maybe the autographs for [TV Star X] are too expensive or the atm ran out of money or any number of things, you may get blamed for all of it. Lots of people will know it’s not your fault or there’s nothing you can do about it but there will be a few that think you have a shirt (the color of the other staff/volunteers) and the con name on it that you are in control of all situations. The best artillery you can have is information. Direct them to another artist, another atm, a different food vendor, or someone that may have the answer if you don’t. I was impressed with the willingness to help and find the answer when I asked some volunteers and helpers at Steampunk Worlds Fair who not only brought me to someone that could help but stayed there until my question was resolved or answered.  

            Also you’re helping the event. These events need people to direct traffic flow, hand out badges, answer questions or set up that fancy lounge I mentioned earlier. To speak to NYCC staff/volunteer professionalism last year, there was a situation where  unexpectedly the line got serious for Mark Bagley and was bogging down space for anyone else to get through. Pretty quickly staff placed a couple people to hold the line out of the way and still maintain everyone’s spot. (It was a matter of “We stand here, then you can go stand over there. Because here isn’t going to get us run over.”)

And more recently was when I helped for the CT Zombie Charge 5K: Mud and Blood 2013 event. I got to meet almost all the zombies that were trying to infect the runners. They also had volunteers to be present at any of the potentially dangerous obstacles, working the bag-check tables, getting people their registration numbers and flags, decontaminating the infected and working the parking area. The event was also held to benefit  The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis, Connecticut Food Bank, and Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  As I said whatever you can do will help the event and possibly help others. 

There is also the chance to get your foot in the door, if you make yourself known or are able to make regular contributions it may lead to a job in the future. At the very least you'll meet some people, make a few friends, learn a few things and have some stories to tell.

-Alex

Direct download: 9.10.2013_Episode_78.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:44am EDT
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Last week I briefly touched on the 2DS and my initial gut reaction. I do have to say that a week later my feelings haven't changed much. Unfortunately, it seems I lacked the proper vocabulary and grammar skills while discussing it in the episode to really say anything besides "it's ugly". One could make the arguement that I didn't make any other valid points and you would probably be 100% right. But in response to that arguement I leave you with this: Dude. Have you seen it yet? That thing is fucking ugly. So. Luckily we had Joe on this week and he was able to help us discuss more features about the 2DS other than it's aesthetic value.

PAX is happening right now. Like, at this very second. Every time I punch another key, another millisecond of PAX ends. And I'm not there to experience it. Joe mentioned during pre-show that attending a West Coast PAX, or "PAX Prime", is a bullet point on his bucket list and I couldn't agree more. People might call us spoiled as we have our own East Coast PAX event every spring in Boston but that doesn't change my stance on wanting to attend the Prime show. There's just something about the original, the first, the OG, that makes every other PAX seem inferior. Maybe inferior isn't quite the right word. From what I've seen PAX East is an incredible convention and I can't wait until we finally get to experience it, but the call of the Prime show is undeniable. And some day we will taste it's delicious fruit. Someday...

Oh, and Bradley Cooper is Rocket Raccoon? Vin Diesel is Groot? James Spader is Ultron?? Three pretty huge Marvel announcements and we talked about them for all of 3 seconds this week. We're terrible nerds.

-Jr.

Direct download: 9.1.2013_Episode_77.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 11:36am EDT
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You'd think I would have a lot to say about this week's events. Honestly, I've been very "meh" about the whole situation. My initial reaction, that fabled "gut" reaction that these men speak of, was that of "OMG I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE WHAT THE INTERNET SAYS". Then, after an hour or so of pure hilarity I got bored and forgot about it until we laid down the track for this sweet, sweet episode.

Also, while trying to think of things to write about I came across this article...and I kind of threw up in my mouth a little. Don't get me wrong, I tend to say that every time Nintendo comes out with a new handheld....then I buy one and end up loving it...but this thing has me confused. It reminds me of one of those home-made portable N64s or something. From what I've read it seems to be pretty comfortable in your hands but I'm not sure that will make up for all the lost dignity. Not to mention it seems a bit bulky which would give me panic attacks when packing for conventions and such. At the end of the day these are all those silly gut reactions I mentioned earlier and I'm sure I'll end up eating my words later when the 2DS ends up being the best selling handheld device of all time...but for now I'll stick to my guns and say that thing is one ugly mother fucker and I wouldn't be caught dead with one.

In other news I finally picked up the first Hellboy trade and OH MY GOD WHAT HAVE I BEEN DOING WITH MY LIFE?? I've had people say "hey man, you should totally read Hellboy" more times than I can count but I always shrugged them off and informed them that I've seen the movies so I don't really need to read it. I wish I could go back in time and punch myself in the face. On the list of "Jayare's biggest regrets" I'd say Not Reading Hellboy Sooner is on there right below Hey Maybe Rob Liefeld Isn't That Bad Of An Artist. Live and learn, I suppose.

-Jr.

Direct download: 8.27.2013_Episode_76.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 2:02pm EDT
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Our friend Ryan is a huge fan of the show. We've had him on in the past and we are going to have him on again in the future. Since he's currently enlisted in the US Army and stationed in Washington; it kind of makes it difficult to have him on consistently. Luckily, he's on leave at the moment so, like the geniuses that we are, we jumped on the opportunity to have him join us.

There's been a ton of talk in the past week or so about The Killing Joke. I don't think I've ever met someone who has read the story and not said "Oh man, it's one of my favorite stories ever". Apparently, Grant Morrison recently stated that he believes Batman killed the Joker at the end of the book. Then the internet exploded. Well, not literally, but you know how we get when people drop bombs like that. Not only are people debating the killing, they're debating how the killing happened. I don't know about you, but I find conspiracy theories to be absolutely delicious. 

I've had two people in the past 3 days ask me if I've played The Wondeful 101 yet. Both of these inquires were completely unprovoked, and after hearing Joe's reaction to the demo I decided it was probably worth checking out. I've been looking for reasons to use my Wii U anyways, so why not? Right? Turns out the game is pretty sweet. Of course it's just a demo with little instruction on what to do but I must say the game is absolutely beautiful and very entertaining. Learning the controls almost killed it for me, though. I was thrown into battle with just a few pop-ups on the screen attempting to tell me what to do. I might as well have been an infant attempting to assemble a machine gun. I'm anxious to see what the full game is going to be like and what kind of story they could possibly incorporate into it even if it makes absolutely zero sense. Either way I'm just excited to dust off the Wii U and finally have something to play.

-Jr.

Direct download: 8.20.2013_Episode_75.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:55am EDT
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So I never got around to writing a blog post for last week's episode...call it writer's block, call it laziness, call it a combination of the two. Either way, my apologies for not delivering what I promised. I'll make it up to you all soon with silly cat pictures or something.

A few weeks ago we talked about a new project that Alex and Jared (from episode 56) are working on. Turns out the writer/lead actress, Kt Baldassaro, is also cool as hell and came on the show so we could ask her all about it and stuff. They launched a Kickstarter that was funded in a whopping 6 days and they're already working on their first stretch goal. From what I understand this is a good thing. If you want to find out more about her flim you should have a listen to the interview and check out their Facebook page. You won't regret it. And if you do, maybe you should really think about these things before you go clicking links, eh? No, but seriously. Click them.

They had some huge announcement thingy for the new Call of Duty today. We were busy asking Kt questions when it was going down so we didn't have the chance to catch any of it. From what I gathered from MLG CEO Sundance DiGiovanni there was a lot of noise...and music...and guns....which is what I've come to expect from COD games so I guess I'm excited? I think? Either way I know one thing: I will be terrible at it.

In other news: Saga returns today and I can't wait to get it in my face. Like, I need it. In my face. If you're not reading Saga you should start putting it in your face so we can talk about how awesome putting Saga in our faces is.

Is Pacific Rim out on Blu-Ray, yet?

-Jr.

Direct download: 8.14.2013_Episode_74.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 7:18pm EDT
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Buying a 3DS has had a severe impact on my productivity. For example: I wanted to have this written two days ago. But. Fire Emblem. So....yeah, there was a bit of a delay. Can you really blame me, though? Ever since I sold my DS Lite those many years ago it has felt like a piece of me was missing. A piece that specialized in handheld joy. Endless amounts of entertainment right at my fingertips. Although, I'll admit my DS Lite never made me want to vomit....I don't see how anyone could use the 3D function consistently without wanting to force a pair of scissors through their eye sockets.

As per Colin's recommendation I picked up Fire Emblem as my first game. My only experience with the Fire Emblem games is playing as Roy/Marth/Ike in Super Smash Brothers. So, really I have no experience with the Fire Emblem games. I've never really been into the turn-based strategy games before (I was God awful at Advance Wars) but I will admit I simply can't stop playing this game. I'd give a full review, but honestly I'm way too lazy. Besides, it has absolutey nothing to do with this week's episode.

Colin Skype'd with us this week and told us all about a LARP'ing event he attended last weekend. I know what you're thinking. You're thinking "UM, I'VE SEEN ROLE MODELS SOOOO I KINDA KNOW ALL ABOUT LARP LOL NERDS". Well, you might want to have a listen to what Colin has to say because, excuse the language, that shit sounded fucking sweet. So. Hold your judgements for after the episode.

Oh, and we're going to be at the Boston Comic Con this weekend. We even have a table and stuff that we're sharing with Brett Kelley: Art Mercenary. Yes, THAT Brett Kelley. We're kind of excited because while we've been to Boston plenty of times; we've never had a table before. It's going to be a new experience and I'm crazy excited to chat with people from the "other side". (Meaning from behind the table instead of awkwardly standing in front of it thumbing through artwork until the artist decides to humor me and look up...)

Check in next week for our typical wrap-up episode.

-Jr.

Direct download: 7.28.2013_Episode_72.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 7:50pm EDT
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This past weekend was pretty rough. Not only was PAX Australia happening about a million miles away from us but the San Diego Comic Con was also taking place about a half million miles away. Unable to attend either of these events, I found myself frequently walking down dusty roads kicking rocks and wallowing in my own self-loathing. Not really, though. Mostly I just sat around and played video games. Pretty much the same thing.

Alex, on the other hand, wasn't about to sit around wasting away into nothingness. He was busy chatting with a man from California named Charlie. Charlie is the founder/owner/operator/everything of the website sketchprices.com. (We talked about it once in episode 44) Despite living like a bajillion miles and three time zones away, Charlie was nice enough to join us for the first half our our episode so we could ask him all sorts of questions about his website, SDCC, and of course his own sketch collection.

You can find his site here, Twitter here, and Facebook here. Go to all of them and learn.

For the second year in a row Alex and I ventured to Northampton, Mass to attend the mc chris show at Pearl St. After the events of last year's mc chris tour, I honestly had no idea what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised when Chris came on and rocked a great set after 3 very solid openers. If I recall correctly I think he was done before midnight so old men like Alex and me could get home and rest our tired bones. Check out his tour schedule and go see a show if he's coming anywhere near you.

Oh, we also talk about GIANT ROBOTS PUNCHING GIANT ALIENS OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN. PACIFIC RIM, BABY. THAT'S WHATS UP.

-Jr.

Direct download: 7.22.2013_Episode_71.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:45am EDT
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Welcome back!

After a 40 episode hiatus Vicky is finally back in the studio!

This past weekend we all went to ConnectiCon in Hartford, CT and episode 70 is completely devoted to our thoughts, reactions, and experiences. While Vicky and Alex are both ConnectiCon veterans, this was Jayare's first experience.

Over past few years going to conventions has become part of our routine. When Alex said "ConnectiCon is a totally different type of convention" he certainly wasn't lying.

Have a listen to episode 70 and learn all about Connecticut's "Massively Multi-Genre Convention".

In addition to the episode we also have some new YouTube content for you! We had the opportunity to interview nerdcore artist Adam WarRock and the creators of Atomic Robo!

Big thanks to Leo Marinak for giving us the opportunity to cover ConnectiCon this year. Hopefully there will be many more to come!


Direct download: 7.15.2013_Episode_70.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 8:35pm EDT
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Exciting news!

Brett Kelley from BK Endeavors is back in studio to talk about his recent work with the Make-A-Wish foundation!

Brett had an amazing opportunity to make a child's wish come true and he told us all about it. Make sure you check out the pictures he posted on his blog.

Also we hit Brett with some of the best Flash Questions to date, discussed James Cameron and the incredible amount of lawsuits he's endured and we have some fun with CBR's master list of the Greatest Stories Ever Told.

Sidenote: We have a busy week coming up with mc chris coming to town and ConnectiCon this weekend! Be prepared for tons of con-chat in the coming weeks!

Direct download: 7.7.2013_Episode_69.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 11:22pm EDT
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Hey hey!

We had an awesome time in the studio this week with OMV newcomer Mike D!

Mike recently had a speculation article he wrote published on the ShieldTV website so we had him on to talk about it!

Check out the article here.

We also hit Mike with the Flash Questions, gave a full review of the new Deadpool game, and talked about Mark Waid's webcomic site "Thrillbent".

Enjoy!

Direct download: 6.30.2013_Episode_68.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:41pm EDT
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Greetings!

Episode 67 is done and jam packed with tons of OMV awesomeness. Joe was back in the studio with us and we're talkin' videogames!

Topics for this week include:

-The Flash Questions

-Nintendo being the dark horse of the E3 convention.

-Jim Carrey and his recent series of Tweets that have rubbed some people the wrong way.

Also we had a very special announcement at the end of the show regarding ConnectiCon next month! Don't miss out!

Direct download: 6.25.2013_Episode_67.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:15am EDT
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It was a tense few hours in the studio while we recorded episode 66...

Frequent OMV guest Will and newcomer Bill went at it as they debated one of the hottest topics in movies:

Is Man of Steel actually good or is it garbage??

It wouldn't be an episode of OMV without some massive SPOILERS. So consider yourself warned...pretty much everything important about the movie is discussed.

Oh, and we also hit Will and Bill with some of the toughest Flash Questions to date. Don't miss out!

Direct download: 6.17.2013_Episode_66.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 7:29pm EDT
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Hello again!

Colin's back and we're talking comics! It's been a while since we've had an episode focused on recent comics and comic news so we made sure to make up for lost time.

This week we:

-Hit Colin with the Flash Questions

-Discuss Paul Jenkins and his recent departure from the major comic brands

-Talk general comic talk (what we're reading, what we're into, what we're tired of, etc)

As usual we had a great time with Colin and we can't thank him enough for joining us yet again!

Until next week, everyone!

Direct download: 6.9.2013_Episode_65.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 8:14pm EDT
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Joe is in studio this week and we're talking:

-Flash Questions

-Arrested Development: Season 4 (Minimal Spoilers...actually. I don't think we spoiled anything...)

-Kickstarter controversy

-Quick E3 predictions

Also, we've added a ton of videos from the Steampunk World's Fair to our YouTube channel. Check them out and let us know what you think!

Direct download: 6.1.2013_Episode_64.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:24pm EDT
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Hello again!

Joining us this week is our friend Jess fresh off her trip to Anime Boston this past weekend!

Show topics for this week's episode include:

-The Flash Questions

-Jess and her experiences at Anime Boston 2013

-Recent Kickstarter news (Rob Liefeld, RoboCop Statue, mc chris)

-Videogame discussion and the world of terrifying mind-blowers.

Direct download: 5.28.2013_Episode_63.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 6:13pm EDT
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Hello!

Episode 62 is finally complete!

After attending the Steampunk World's Fair in Piscataway, New Jersey this past weekend we were finally able to get in the studio and discuss our thoughts, experiences and reactions!

It was an amazing event and we can't thank all the SPWF employees enough for the incredible service they provided throughout the weekend. Also a huge thanks goes to Jeff Mach for putting on the event and deeming us worthy of press passes!

In addition to this episode we're also going to be uploading videos of our interviews with Emperor Norton's Stationary Marching Band, Frenchie & The Punk, Nicole from The Devil's Darkroom and more!

Keep an eye on our YouTube channel as we'll be uploading footage from the weekend as soon as possible!

Direct download: 5.22.2013_Episode_62.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 7:12pm EDT
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Happy Mother's Day!

It was a great week in the OMV studio. Not only did we have Brett Kelley of BK Endeavors join us on Skype but we also had the honor of having our good friend Ryan join us in studio as well!

Ryan just got back from his tour of duty in Afghanistan with the U.S. Army and was nice enough to give us some time to discuss all things nerd!

Show topics for this week include:

-The Flash Questions

-Steampunk shenanigans and the Steampunk World's Fair

-Comic rants

-Disney canning Lucas Arts and hiring EA to develop Star Wars video games

Direct download: 5.12.2013_Episode61.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:55pm EDT
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Hey everyone!

Comic lover and local artist Steve is back in the studio this week and we're talking Iron Man 3!

For the first time in OMV history we managed to keep the spoilers to a minimum. Crazy, right?

Anyways, tune in to episode 60 for the Flash Questions, Free Comic Book Day discussion and of course Iron Man 3 reactions and opinions.*Mostly Spoiler Free!!* *Mostly!!*

Enjoy!

Direct download: 5.5.2013_Episode_60.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:28pm EDT
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Hey everyone,

Joe is back in studio to join us for a special episode this week.

Last time Joe joined us we discussed our initial reaction to Bioshock Infinite and what we thought of the game. Now that we've all had time to play and complete it we brought Joe back in to give our post-game thoughts and reactions. Note: This discussion is extremely SPOILER HEAVY. If you haven't played/completed Infinite yet and plan on doing so we recommend listening to this episode after you finish!

We also hit Joe with the Flash Questions and discussed the latest info about the new date for the 2013 Boston Comic Con!

Direct download: 4.28.2013_Episode_59.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 7:17pm EDT
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Hey everyone,

Colin was nice enough to stop in this week to help us discuss the postponement of the Boston Comic Con and all the details that have surfaced since their announcement.

We also hit Colin with the Flash Questions and discussed the new fighting game Injustice: Gods Among Us (that game where DC characters decide to fight each other).

Enjoy!

Direct download: 4.20.2013_Episode_58.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 3:23pm EDT
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Hey everyone,

After a stunning 11 weeks outside the studio, Will is finally back and ready to discuss the new Evil Dead movie with us! (SPOILER ALERT)

We also hit Will with the Flash Questions and discuss Iron Man 3. What's the deal with The Mandarin? Who is in all of those suits at the end of the preview? Is Pepper going to be rocking a suit of armor herself?? Let the speculation begin!

Direct download: 4.15.2013_Episode_57.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 11:26pm EDT
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Hey everyone!

This week's guest is local director/producer/cinematographer Jared Skolnick!

Jared joins us this week to talk about his short film "The Earth Rejects Him" which will be screened both days at the Boston Comic Con Film Festival! Check out his work at www.skolnickfilms.com.

We also hit Jared with the Flash Round, discuss the Veronica Mars Kickstarter, and reflect on the season finale of The Walking Dead!

Direct download: 4.6.2013_Episode_56.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 3:54pm EDT
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Ryan is back and it's time for episode 55!

Ryan was a lucky son of a gun and went to PAX East this past week. We took it upon ourselves to ask him all about it.

We also talk about Brian K. Vaughn's new digital comic project and we hit Ryan with the Flash Round!

Direct download: 3.31.2013_Episode_55.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:03pm EDT
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Joe is back in the studio this week for episode 54! Now that our one year celebration is over it's time to get back to business and talk about nerd stuff again.

Show topics include:

-"The Speedround" - A new segment that features quick, rapidfire questions comparing two topics. (Example: Star Trek/Star Wars)

-Bioshock: Infinite and our thoughts on the game thus far.

-"Cards Against Humanity" - a party game Joe received via a kickstarter campaign.

-General comic talk. Saga, Chew, Ex Machina and more!

Direct download: 3.27.2013_Episode_54.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:57am EDT
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Hey!

No guest this week! Just Alex and me!

No worries though, with it being our ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY Alex decided to put some clips together from the past year as a Thank You to everyone who has taken the time to join us or listen to our opinionated banter. We would be nothing but a couple of fools talking into microphones without everyone who has contributed over the past year. Thank you all so much!

Show topics include:

-Our interview with our friend Dina who recently got to attend a Norman Reedus Q&A session.

-Alex's journey to the land of Civil War reenactments.

-Pokemon!!

Direct download: 3.18.2013_Episode_53.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 10:24pm EDT
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Welcome  back!

Joining us for episode 52 this week is our good friend and first time guest Art!

Show topics include:

-Sim City and their recent release debacle.

-Art's incredible cause to kick cancer in the ass.

-News about Boston Comic Con

-The weekly question!

Only one more week until our ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY!

Direct download: 3.11.2013_Episode_52.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 11:05pm EDT
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Joining us in the studio this week is the only guest who tells us when he's coming on the show. Of course that can only mean one man....OMV Veteran Joe!

Topics for this week's episode include:

-Batman Inc. #8 (Spoilers)

-Bioshock Infinite and DLC discussion

-The weekly question!

Join in on the discussion on our Facebook and Twitter pages!

-Facebook: facebook.com/opinionsmayvary

-Twitter: @OMVPodcast

Direct download: 3.3.2013_Episode_51.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 11:23pm EDT
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Hey everyone!

Our guest host this week is none other than Captain Pryo himself....Justin!

Show topics for our 50th episode include:

-Justin's review of "Marvel Comics: The Untold Story".

-PlayStation 4 news.

-The weekly question!

This episode marks 50 straight weeks of recording! Thank you to everyone who has been tuning in and giving us a listen!

Direct download: 2.24.2013_Episode_50.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 9:33pm EDT
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Colin is back! Recording happened! Serious topics and joyous laughter! Enjoy!

Show topics include:

-Orson Scott Card being hired to write a Superman comic.

-The latest video game disaster to bear the name "Alien".

-The Weekly Question.

-Random comic talk. Recent releases, latest surprises, etc.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: 2.16.2013_Episode_49.mp3
Category:Comics Movies & Videogames -- posted at: 11:50pm EDT
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