Hidden Gems, Wrestling Chaos, and LEGO Comfort
This week on Geeks with Issues 20XX, the crew dives into a full slate of geeky goodness- from game design philosophy to surprising indie wrestling action, hidden gaming gems, and the curious comfort of LEGO crossovers. Joined by Sean, Ogre, Tuck, and a ringside report from Trevor, here’s a quick recap of everything covered:
Player Information in Games
Sean starts things off with a conversation about how games teach us to play. He has been diving into games like Tunic and Skigill that encourage players to learn through experimentation instead of hand holding. That leads to a great discussion about intuitive controls, the value of a well made tutorial and the frustration that happens when a game expects you to magically figure out its design language. The crew talks about the balance between mystery and clarity, the way Breath of the Wild teaches through the environment, and why players need to care about a game early or they will walk away.
Hidden Gaming Treasures
Ogre brings the next topic to the table with a question about games that surprised the geeks in the best possible way. He shares his love for FTL which looked like a throwaway retro style game until it turned into a full blown obsession. Tuck follows with Star Control 2 which he expected to be as simple as its predecessor and instead found an emotional layered sci fi story that blindsided him in the best way.
Journey from the Basement: TIW Fall Frenzy
Trevor checks in from the North Adams Rec Center for Truly Independent Wrestling’s Fall Frenzy event. The card is packed with forty competitors and a main event that is exactly the kind of beautifully chaotic wrestling nonsense the geeks love. Redneck Randy Walker faces Jamar Justice in an outhouse match that has to be seen to be believed. After the segment the table talks about how smaller wrestling promotions are returning to community spaces like rec centers and YMCA gyms. Everyone agrees that these venues bring wrestling back to its roots and keep the energy local personal and fun.
Why LEGO Crossovers Feel Safe
Tuck wraps the episode’s topics with a confession. He loves a good LEGO crossover even though crossovers in other media usually make him cringe. The crew digs into why LEGO gets a free pass. They talk about LEGO as both toy and model kit, the nostalgia factor, the creative space that LEGO encourages, and how the sets never feel like a lazy money grab. Instead they feel like a respectful way to celebrate stories fans already love. As Ogre notes there is even something a little funny about seeing something sleek and cinematic rebuilt in blocky little bricks and that charm goes a long way.
While you are waiting for the next round of chaos, be sure to check out Journey from the Basement, explore the website for updates and extras, and keep an eye out for the next episode of Between the Geeks. There is plenty more nerdy nonsense on the way, so stay tuned and stay curious.
