Kinda Funny Gamescast: Video Game Podcast
Episode: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 vs Pokémon Violet (Greg’s Take)
Release Date: July 1, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of the Kinda Funny Gamescast, hosts Tim Gettys and Greg Miller delve into a candid and introspective discussion about Greg’s experiences with two prominent turn-based RPGs: Expedition 33 and Pokémon Violet. Released on July 1, 2025, this episode explores Greg's unexpected challenges with Expedition 33 despite its acclaim, juxtaposed against his enjoyment of Pokémon Violet. The conversation offers deep insights into game mechanics, player engagement, and the evolving landscape of role-playing games.

Main Discussion: Greg's Take on Expedition 33 vs Pokémon Violet

Greg’s Departure from Turn-Based RPGs

Greg Miller opens up about his longstanding aversion to turn-based RPGs, a genre he has previously engaged with through titles like Persona 3 and Persona 4 Golden. Despite the acclaim and engaging narratives typical of these games, Greg finds himself unable to connect with modern iterations such as Expedition 33.

Greg Miller [08:13]: "I'm wrong, everybody. I'm wrong. I think one of the things we discussed in the meeting room was what do we headline this show? Because I think it's time for me just to retire from turn-based RPGs. Except Pokémon."

This admission marks a significant shift in Greg's gaming preferences, highlighting his struggles with maintaining interest and engagement in a genre he once passionately reviewed.

Comparison with Other Games

Greg contrasts Expedition 33 with other turn-based and action RPGs, expressing frustration with the modern mechanics that he feels dilute the depth and engagement of traditional turn-based combat.

Greg Miller [19:14]: "I feel like I have that laundry list of Pokémon to swap in, swap out, take a hit, no big deal, still get the move done and be on my way again in 30 seconds. Versus sitting there for two minutes and doing something."

He draws parallels between Expedition 33 and titles like Final Fantasy 16 and Dragon Age: Valheim, noting that while some games successfully modernize turn-based systems, others fall short of delivering the immersive experience he seeks.

Greg Miller [43:10]: "So it's interesting you bring up Final Fantasy Rebirth because I'd also toss in Final Fantasy 16 which not a turn based game at all. A game that's all about being story and stuff. And it just didn't work for me."

Game Mechanics and Story Engagement

A central theme of the discussion revolves around the balance between story and gameplay mechanics. Greg appreciates strong narratives but feels that the combat mechanics in Expedition 33 hinder his ability to stay engaged with the story.

Greg Miller [19:20]: "I just want to know and people I know while we've been live, someone emailed me with a mod to put on where you go into God mode and you can just kill everything in one hit. That also, I mean, that sounds mind-numbing, right?"

Greg emphasizes his preference for active and engaging combat systems that allow for meaningful player interaction, contrasting this with what he perceives as monotonous or disengaging mechanics in Expedition 33.

Greg Miller [24:40]: "But they start everybody. The stuff surrounding an expedition is just so high quality and engaging and Greg Miller like that's the thing to me that I'm struggling here."

Despite his criticisms, Greg acknowledges the high production values and storytelling elements of Expedition 33, suggesting that his disconnect stems primarily from the gameplay experience.

Interaction with Live Chat

Throughout the episode, Greg and Tim engage with live chat messages, addressing listener comments and questions. These interactions provide additional perspectives and reinforce the episode's themes.

• Listener Alex J. Sandoval [63:20]: "Tastes change. Don't force yourself through experiences you don't enjoy."

  Greg responds by reiterating his struggle with turn-based RPGs, emphasizing the personal nature of gaming preferences.

• Listener Joshua Moreno [65:08]: "I like the older Pokémon games and abhor all the Final Fantasies. Clear structure, simple lore, and quick battles. RNG's done in a clear way. Menu diving sucks and it should never prevent you from continuing. That's my two cents."

  This comment underscores the varied player preferences within the RPG community, aligning with Greg's detailed exploration of his own tastes.

Additional Insights

Player Types and Preferences

The conversation touches upon Bartle's taxonomy of player types—achievers, explorers, socializers, and killers—as Greg attempts to categorize his preferences and understand his disconnect with certain game mechanics.

Greg Miller [53:00]: "So, as I listen I was like maybe that's that that's helpful. Yeah, that's helpful for your taste lie."

This exploration helps frame Greg's experiences within broader player behavior theories, providing a structured lens through which he assesses his gaming enjoyment.

Future Expectations and Open-Ended Reflections

Greg expresses hope for future turn-based RPGs that might align better with his preferences, indicating a willingness to remain open to the genre despite his current frustrations.

Greg Miller [70:46]: "I'm going to play all the Platty Birds and get more Platinum trophies."

His mention of awaiting Za as a potential game that could redeem his experience with turn-based systems showcases his ongoing engagement with the evolving RPG landscape.

Conclusion

This episode of the Kinda Funny Gamescast offers a rare and honest glimpse into Greg Miller's personal gaming struggles, particularly his disengagement with modern turn-based RPGs like Expedition 33. Through thoughtful analysis and open dialogue, Greg and Tim explore the intricate balance between storytelling and gameplay mechanics, emphasizing the importance of player engagement and personal preference in game enjoyment. The episode not only provides valuable insights for listeners and gamers alike but also reinforces the podcast's commitment to authentic and meaningful conversations within the gaming community.

Greg Miller [68:13]: "Why turn based doesn't work for Greg or something like that."

As the hosts wrap up, they acknowledge the diversity of gaming experiences and reaffirm the podcast's dedication to exploring all facets of video games, ensuring that every listener finds value in their discussions.

Note: Timestamps are approximate and correspond to the provided transcript.