Fire Escape Cast #89: A Deep Dive into Travels, Video Games, and Hilarious Antics
Released on September 9, 2024, Fire Escape Cast #89 features hosts Michael Mahardy, Mary Kish, and Dan Ryckert engaging in their trademark candid and entertaining discussions. This episode seamlessly blends personal anecdotes, travel experiences, and passionate conversations about video games, ensuring both longtime listeners and newcomers find something to enjoy.
Reuniting the Fire Escape Crew
[00:43] Michael Mahardy warmly welcomes listeners back to episode 89, reintroducing himself alongside [00:53] Mary Kish and the returning [01:02] Dan Ryckert. The trio shares light-hearted banter about scheduling conflicts and their upcoming trip to Portland, setting a relaxed and friendly tone for the episode.
Dan remarks at [01:02], "All the stars are here. We've all assembled again," highlighting the excitement of being together after their individual travels.
Airport Adventures and Travel Missteps
The conversation quickly shifts to personal travel stories. Dan shares his first-time experience in Portland, discussing the city's unique attractions and their plans to explore iconic spots like waterfalls and vistas with Mary.
At [05:32], Dan recounts his trip to Germany, humorously describing his swift Uber ride on the Autobahn and the challenges of navigating with speed unfamiliar to him. He humorously mentions the “saga of DJ Ass Tits,” where they met a local DJ for a cameo in their Giant Bomb video.
Dan shares with laughter at [06:05], "We saw a sign that said DJ Astitude... So we met up with DJ Ass Tits. She was an absolute delight."
Mary complements Dan’s experience, reminiscing about their interactions at Gamescom Cologne and the friendly yet competitive atmosphere among international gamers.
Transitioning to Portland and Local Plans
Michael shares his excitement about visiting Portland for the first time without the comical, exaggerated fears he joked about earlier. The hosts discuss logistics, family visits, and the influence of local weather phenomena like heat domes (“hot pockets”).
At [04:50], Michael jokes, "Leapt the hot Pocket leapt straight from New York to Portland," adding humor to their discussion about the unexpected heat.
Mary reassures the group about the trip, planning to take Dan and Michael to scenic spots and enjoy Portland’s vibrant environment, despite challenges like managing family and work schedules.
Video Games: A Central Theme
The heart of the episode delves into their shared passion for video games. The hosts discuss recent releases, favorites, and gameplay experiences with enthusiasm and expert insight.
Astro Bot and Platformers
Dan passionately praises Astro Bot as "among my favorite games ever" and compares it favorably to titles like Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey. He highlights its seamless controls, engaging level design, and the joy it brings him.
"Astrobot is the new Astrobot is among my favorite games ever. It is unreal how fucking good it is," says Dan at [34:22].
Mary echoes Dan’s enthusiasm, emphasizing Astro Bot’s innovative physics and accessible gameplay that appeals to both seasoned gamers and newcomers.
Core Keeper and Slider: Indie Gems
Mary brings attention to indie titles like Core Keeper and Slider, elaborating on their unique mechanics and engaging puzzles. Slider, a free puzzle game, receives particular praise for its thoughtful design and brain-teasing challenges.
At [48:17], Mary describes Slider: "It's a BR Brain buster," highlighting its intricate puzzle design that goes beyond traditional sliding mechanics.
Dan shares his excitement about discovering these indie games, appreciating their creativity and the fresh experiences they offer compared to mainstream titles.
Tactical Breach Wizards and Strategy Games
Michael introduces Tactical Breach Wizards, lauding its blend of tactical gameplay with magical elements. He discusses the game's strategic depth, character abilities, and the enjoyable blend of humor and intense combat scenarios.
Michael explains at [66:08], "And Druids and shit like that," referring to the game’s unique character classes that merge tactical prowess with fantastical abilities.
Gaming Series and Remakes: Navigating the Legacy
The hosts touch upon their experiences with long-standing game series and the impact of remakes. They discuss how playing later entries in a series can influence their perception and enjoyment of earlier titles.
Dan reflects at [107:03], "If you're curious about Call of Duty, you need to go back to the first one," emphasizing the importance of understanding a series’ roots to fully appreciate its evolution.
Mary and Michael add their perspectives on various franchises, highlighting the balance between nostalgia and modern gameplay enhancements.
Listener Interaction: Would You Rather?
Transitioning to listener engagement, they entertain a fun segment where they answer a "Would You Rather" question submitted by Aaron from Dallas:
“Would you rather slip and fall every time you enter a new room or have to scream every fifth word you say at the top of your lungs?”
Mary selects screaming for its lesser physical risks, while Michael sides with her, and Dan opts for screaming as well to avoid injury.
Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans
As the episode wraps up, the hosts discuss their ongoing and upcoming projects, including Mary’s involvement in the Objectively Positive Podcast, Dan’s streaming endeavors, and Michael’s gameplay with Alien Dark Descent and others. They encourage listeners to engage with the podcast through reviews, merchandise, and Patreon support.
Michael signs off with warmth at [129:10], "Thank you for joining. We appreciate it, as always. We'll see you on the next episode of Fire Escape Cast."
Notable Quotes:
- Dan Ryckert at [34:22]: "Astrobot is among my favorite games ever. It is unreal how fucking good it is."
- Mary Kish at [48:17]: "It's a BR Brain buster."
- Michael Mahardy at [66:08]: "It's Tactical Breach Wizards, Heat Signature, XCOM of Stardew, Floating point, gunpoint."
- Dan Ryckert at [107:03]: "If you're curious about Call of Duty, you need to go back to the first one."
Conclusion:
Fire Escape Cast #89 masterfully balances humor, personal stories, and in-depth discussions about video games. The hosts' chemistry shines through as they navigate various topics, making the episode both informative and highly entertaining. Whether you're a dedicated gamer or a casual listener, this episode offers valuable insights and plenty of laughs, embodying the essence of what makes Fire Escape Cast a beloved podcast in the gaming community.