Description

What makes a game a game? The mechanics, conventions, technologies, and traditions of video games have a rich history that rivals that of any other medium. And those stories deserve to be told.

It’s dangerous to go alone, so join Byron as he explores the stories behind the games you love – from their humble beginnings on oscilloscopes, to the strange side projects of well-known gaming brands, to the cutting edge tech behind modern games.

Transcript

Have you ever wondered what makes a game, well, a game?

All the mechanics, conventions, and traditions we know and love (and, let’s get real – sometimes don’t) weren’t just plucked from the ether – they came from somewhere.

They have a history.

Video games were created by outpourings of creative inspiration, and by dedicated labors of love, and by pushing the boundaries of technology.

Or in the case of id Software, the by product of a bunch of dudes subsisting on pizza, Dungeons and Dragons, and an overwhelming desire to make something awesome.

Video games exist as the culmination of all that and more – and in the process, found a very special place in many of our lives.

The evolution of games from a passing curiosity to one of the worlds most beloved hobbies is full of fantastic stories. I mean, did you know that Enix, the publisher of classics like Dragon Quest and the Quintet Trilogy, had its start as a magazine that printed real estate advertisements?

These stories deserve to be told. So, I’m going to tell them.

Welcome to Subquests, the show that explores the stories behind the games you love. Available on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, and your podcatcher of choice.

You can also follow the show on Twitter @subquests and on Instagram @subquestspod to stay in touch.

See ya soon.