In this episode of The Game Under Podcast, hosts Phil Fogg and Tom Towers dive into a wide-ranging and humorous discussion that spans video games, philosophy, history, and vegan cuisine. They begin with a satirical take on historical figures like Tokyo Rose and Typhoid Mary, segueing into a critique of Stephen Hicks’ philosophical work, particularly his criticisms of postmodernism and Objectivism. The conversation then shifts to Nintendo’s mobile game Mario Kart Tour, which Tom criticizes for its awkward controls and monetization model. They also discuss the broader state of mobile gaming, lamenting the popularity of games like Roblox and Subway Surfers among children, and reflecting on how these experiences compare to more traditional gaming and even physical toys like LEGO.
The second half of the episode focuses on Phil’s impressions of Judgment, a spin-off from the Yakuza series, which he praises for its engaging story, familiar setting, and solid—though simplified—combat. Tom shares detailed updates on his new PC build, explaining his choices for components like the CPU, GPU, and cooling system, with a humorous emphasis on the inclusion of a magnetic screwdriver. The hosts also touch on the evolution of vegan food, particularly plant-based meat alternatives, and reminisce about favorite restaurants. They close with a discussion of the game Sky and its new controller support on iOS, as well as a nostalgic look at past Game of the Year titles, ultimately awarding Urban Chaos: Riot Response their retroactive 2006 Game of the Year. The episode blends deep dives with light-hearted banter, showcasing the duo’s eclectic interests and chemistry.
Listen here, if the signal hasn’t been jammed.
Tom’s many-layered nonsense somehow came up on the show. Here’s a music video he made: