RPGFan's Random Encounter

On this week's Random Encounter, the Summer Game Fest (AKA Not-E3) season is officially upon us!For video game fans, this period is like early Christmas. With nonstop gaming announcements, there is something for everyone! This week, our panel has been working hard keeping up with all the major events, so it's time to share our favourite games from across the showcases! Featuring: Jono Logan, Gio Castillo, Mike Salbato, Stephanie Sybydlo, and Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Jono LoganGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:RGG Studio’s Project Century is Now Stranger Than Heaven in Summer Game Fest TeaserCode Vein II Revealed, Coming 2026Lies of P: Overture Available Now for Consoles, PCBlighted is Drinkbox Studios’ Newest Metroidvania, Releasing 2026Atomic Heart II Reveal Showcases Open-World Firefights, Mutant Wildlife & RobotsMina the Hollower to Bring Spooky 8-Bit Action on October 31stMoonlighter 2 Trailer Details Dynamic 3D Action & Shopkeeping StrategyDosa Divas to Stir Up Trouble and Serve It in 2026Here’s Our First Look at TOEM 2’s GameplayEscape Academy 2: Back 2 School Announced at Summer Game FestNeverway is a Spooky Take on Life SimsOFF To Launch Digitally on Switch, PC on August 15thPersona 4 Revival Teaser at Xbox Games Showcase 2025

On this week’s episode of Random Encounter, we’re doing a deep dive into the game everyone is talking about: Sandfall Interactive's Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.In this lengthy, full-blown spoilercast, we chat about the beautiful music, the combat, the story, and argue about who loves Esquie the most. Does the panel adore the game as much as the host? Listen in to find out!Featuring: Zach Wilkerson, Aleks Franiczek, Zek Lu, Tin Manuel, and Matt Wardell, and Zek Lu; Edited by Zach WilkersonGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 ReviewClair Obscur: Expedition 33 Soundtrack Review

On this episode of Random Encounter, we're looking at a stylish upcoming turn-based RPG and a remaster of a sprawling open-world classic!First, Zek is here to discuss Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a game that might end up being his favorite JRPG of this generation. This stylish title is capturing attention with an incredible voice cast and fresh take on turn-based combat. Why does Zek think it lives up to this universal acclaim?And then, Matt revisits a childhood favorite filled with nostalgia: The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered. It boasts some excellent quality-of-life changes and a fresh coat of paint while still keeping the wonderful "jank" of the original. Will this remaster live up to Matt's cherished memories of the original?Featuring: Jono Logan, Matt Wardell, and Zek Lu; Edited by Jono LoganGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 ReviewThe Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered ReviewMattWardellWrites

On this episode of Random Encounter, we're looking at a new classic puzzle-adventure game and a packaged duo of some of the best RPGs ever released on the PSX!First, Gio and Tin are here to give us a walk-through tour of Blue Prince, the hit rogue-lite puzzle adventurer. This game came out of nowhere for a lot of folks, trapping them inside the shifting rooms of this puzzling mansion. Does it live up to its inspirations like Outer Wilds and Riven?And then, Zach is here to chat about a series very near and dear to us here at RPGFan: Lunar! The Lunar Remastered Collection is finally out, packaging Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete and Lunar: Eternal Blue Complete in one package! Zach has played through both games many times, but did the new quality-of-life features enhance his experience?Featuring: Jono Logan, Gio Castillo, Tin Manuel, and Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Jono LoganGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:Blue Prince ReviewLunar Remastered Collection ReviewThe Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Leaks on Dev Site

On this episode of Random Encounter, we chat about everything that happened last week and, BOY, did a lot happen last week!First up, Dom is here to talk about the recent sci-fi Souls-like AI LIMIT. Does it live up to its inspirations, or does it fall just as flat as AI does in the real world?Then, Zach joins the panel to chat about the Switch 2 Direct! In many ways, the full reveal was everything we hoped for, but there could be some warning signs for this new console as we move further into 2025. Tariffs, presales, and bear (markets), oh my.Featuring: Jono Logan, Dom Kim, Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Jono LoganGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:AI LIMIT ReviewNintendo Switch 2 Direct RPG RundownDeltarune Chapters 1-4 Will Launch on June 5th [UPDATE]Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment Releases This Winter on Switch 2Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster Is Coming to Switch 2The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Will Have Switch 2 EditionsHere’s What’s Coming to Nintendo Switch 2’s GameCube LineupElden Ring Tarnished Edition To Grace Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025SEGA Bringing Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut to Switch 2 with English Voice Option & MoreFinal Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade Coming to Switch 2Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition Revealed as Switch 2 Launch Title

On this episode of Random Encounter, it's time to sink into the shadows and brew some tea, because we're talking about Assassin's Creed Shadows and Wanderstop!Assassin's Creed Shadows is finally here! This long-awaited game has been delayed multiple times over the last year, but was that extra time well spent? Tom is here to tell us his thoughts about the latest entry in the long-running series!Tom also recently played the latest game from The Stanley Parable's Davey Wreden, Wanderstop. What appears to be a simple cozy game on the surface is actually a deep and thoughtful meditation on how to recover from burnout (something I think many of us can relate to, given the last few years). Will it appeal to both fans of the genre and those who are looking for a more narrative-based experience?And finally, Jono gets to chat about an amazing new visual novel from the geniuses at inkle, Expelled! An Overboard! Game. This follow-up to 2021's Overboard! might be the perfect sequel, delivering everything that made the original great while also advancing the gameplay and world. If you're a fan of deductive games or visual novels, it is a must-play!Featuring: Jono Logan and Tom Naylor; Edited by Jono LoganGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:Assassin's Creed ShadowsWanderstop ReviewExpelled! An Overboard! Game ReviewOverboard! Review

On this episode of Random Encounter, it's time to chat about a remaster and a new game in two long-running series!First up, Zach's prayers have been answered: Suikoden I&II HD Remaster: Gate Rune & Dunan Unification Wars is finally out! This remaster of the first two Suikoden games has been highly anticipated for years by fans of the series, but does it live up to their hopes?Then, Zek chats about the excellent (though slightly light on content) new entry in the Monster Hunter franchise: Monster Hunter: Wilds. The series has become more and more popular in the West with every entry. Will this new game make a similar impression on the fanbase?Finally, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a game that came out of nowhere in 2024, is nearing release in April. Zek played through the demo, and it sounds like it might just live up to, or even exceed, RPG fans' expectations!Featuring: Jono Logan, Zek Lu, and Zach Wilkerson; Edited by Jono LoganGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars ReviewMonster Hunter Wilds ReviewClair Obscur: Expedition 33 Hands-on Preview

On this episode of Random Encounter, we're talking about two of the most highly anticipated games of 2025!We've been eagerly awaiting Obsidian's answer to Skyrim for years, and Avowed is finally here. A spin-off of the beloved CRPG Pillars of Eternity series, Avowed replaces the isometric view and strategic "real-time-with-pause" combat with an FPS perspective. Jerry is a massive Pillars fan, so does he think Avowed does Skyrim better than Skyrim?Then, Jono is here to chat about the latest Like a Dragon game, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. For the first time since the Yakuza Kiwami 2 DLC, we get to play as the Mad Dog of Shimano himself, Goro Majima. Or should we say Sea Dog, as Majima has taken up a new profession as a pirate captain. Pirate Yakuza looks wild, but does it deliver all the high-seas hijinks it promises?Featuring: Jono Logan and Jerry Williams; Edited by Jono LoganGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:Avowed ReviewPillars of Eternity ReviewLike a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii ReviewLike a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name Review

On this episode of Random Encounter, we're celebrating all things Canadian!For absolutely no reason (certainly not related to any current events in February 2024), Jono has gathered a few of his fellow Canucks at RPGFan to chat about some of their favourite Canadian games. The thing about games from up north is, much like Canadians themselves, you might not realize they are Canadian at first glance. But don't worry because our panel is here to let you in on our maple-scented secrets.Steph is ready to virtually chat about 1000xResist, a 2024 GOTY contender from Vancouver-based developer Sunset Visitor. Matt is sailing the dead seas with Spiritfarer from Montreal-based developer Thunder Lotus Games. Jono is solving the mystery of The Crimson Diamond, created by Toronto-based solo dev Julia Minamata. And Aleks is storming the cottage of Toronto-based developer Black Tabby Games to Slay the Princess! And that's just the beginning!Featuring: Jono Logan, Aleks Franiczek, Matt Wardell, and Stephanie Sybydlo; Edited by Jono LoganGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:1000xResist ReviewSpiritfarer ReviewThe Crimson Diamond ReviewSlay the Princess – The Pristine Cut ReviewSea of Stars ReviewLil' Guardsman ReviewTo the Moon ReviewA Bird Story ReviewFinding Paradise ReviewImpostor Factory ReviewJust a To the Moon Series Beach Episode ReviewRogue Legacy ReviewRogue Legacy 2 (Early Access) ReviewNobody Saves the World ReviewCrypt of the NecroDancer ReviewCadence of Hyrule – Crypt of the NecroDancer Featuring the Legend of Zelda ReviewDarkest Dungeon ReviewDarkest Dungeon II ReviewBaldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition ReviewBaldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Edition ReviewNeverwinter Nights: Enhanced Edition ReviewStar Wars: Knights of the Old Republic ReviewThe Vale: Shadow of the Crown ReviewSEASON: A letter to the future Review

On this episode of Random Encounter, it’s a double dose of sci-fi and fantasy!First, Aleks joins us to talk about Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector, a sci-fi RPG with a strong tabletop influence. As a sequel to 2022’s Citizen Sleeper, Starward Vector expands its universe with multiple settings and companions. If you love tabletop RPGs, then this could be the sleeper hit of 2025!Next, Paul dives into Tales of Graces f Remastered, experiencing a classic Tales game for the first time. Bandai Namco has been on a roll with Tales re-releases, and this remaster brings Tales of Graces, originally a 2009 Japan-only Wii game (and later a 2012 English PS3 release), back with updated visuals and quality-of-life improvements. With one of the best combat systems in the series, is it worth revisiting?And finally, the panel discusses Sony’s failed foray into live-service gaming. With major cancellations making headlines, what went wrong (I'll give you a hint: The answer rhymes with Portnite)?Featuring: Jono Logan, Aleks Franiczek, and Paul Skevington; Edited by Jono LoganGet in Touch:RPGFan.comRPGFan ShopEmail us: podcast@rpgfan.comTwitter: @rpgfancomBluesky: @rpgfan.bsky.socialInstagram: @rpgfancomThreads: @rpgfancomFacebook: rpgfancomTwitch: rpgfancomThis Episode's Related Links:Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector ReviewCitizen Sleeper ReviewTales of Graces f Remastered Review