‘Mythic Quest’ and Our Favorite Fiction About Video Games, Plus Ashly Burch | Button Mash
Jan 30, 2025
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Join Jomi Adeniran, a pop culture enthusiast, and Ashly Burch, a prolific voice actor known for roles in Borderlands and Life is Strange, as they delve into the world of 'Mythic Quest.' They discuss the show's unique take on gaming culture, character dynamics, and the emotional storytelling that resonates with all viewers. Ashly shares insights about her dual role as a writer and voice actor, reflecting on industry changes and the growth of video games. Conversations spark nostalgia for the 80s gaming era and the importance of authentic storytelling in today's media landscape.
The podcast highlights the dynamic relationship between characters in 'Mythic Quest,' emphasizing the balance of humor and emotional depth in their interactions.
The importance of resilience in the video game industry post-pandemic is showcased through the financial recovery and adaptability of 'Mythic Quest.',
A rich discussion on the evolving representation in voice acting reveals the challenges faced by actors in the age of AI and labor rights.
The podcast explores the future of storytelling, indicating a growing fusion of gaming and television narratives as both mediums increasingly influence each other.
Deep dives
Inside Hollywood Dynamics
The podcast delves into the intricate dynamics of power and finances within Hollywood, highlighting conversations held between insiders about show cancellations, corporate missteps, and possible declines of streaming giants. It touches on why certain shows disappear overnight, pointing towards the influence of key executives and market pressures on decisions made by networks. Specific examples include discussions around which streaming service may be on the brink of collapse, suggesting that the entertainment industry is in a state of constant flux and uncertainty. The importance of understanding these behind-the-scenes narratives is emphasized for anyone interested in the entertainment landscape.
Resurgence of the Video Game Industry
The episode reflects on the recovery of the video game industry following a downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and highlights the resilience shown by companies like Mythic Quest. It discusses how the pandemic affected staffing and productivity, leading to significant layoffs but also hints at a bounce back in engagement. The show mentions Rachel Mee, the head of monetization at Mythic Quest, as a key player in driving financial success and revitalizing the company post-pandemic. This narrative underscores the adaptability required in the entertainment and gaming industries, particularly when faced with unprecedented challenges.
Mythic Quest: A Unique Workplace Comedy
Mythic Quest is characterized as a workplace comedy that merges elements of both humor and heartfelt storytelling, drawing comparisons to shows like Silicon Valley and Ted Lasso. The series showcases a mixture of quirky characters who drive the narrative while working on a fictional video game, allowing for both comedic and poignant moments. Discussions touch on how the relationships between characters, particularly Ian and Poppy, provide depth to the show's storyline, while also exploring themes of collaboration versus rivalry in creative settings. The podcast effectively argues that the comedic elements do not detract from the character development or the show's emotional resonance.
Creative Process and Community Building
The podcast emphasizes the importance of portraying the creative process within the realm of game development and the camaraderie that comes with it. It draws attention to the significance of community in games and how collaborative creativity plays a crucial role in developing compelling stories. This connection is underlined by anecdotes from the podcast's hosts and guests, revealing how the shared experiences during the pandemic influenced character relationships and the creative process in Mythic Quest. The narrative touches upon how gaming culture fosters deeper connections among creators and consumers, presenting it as a significant aspect of modern storytelling.
Soaring to New Heights in Storytelling
The podcast hints at exciting storytelling in the latest season of Mythic Quest, focusing on innovative episode formats and the exploration of offbeat narratives. One standout episode is described as a murder mystery format, blending humor and tension while showcasing the characters in a college-like social scenario, amplifying the charm of the series. These creative episodic formats showcase writer Megan Gans’ capabilities in storytelling, revealing how Mythic Quest challenges traditional sitcom conventions to keep the audience engaged. Such creativity reflects the show's evolution, showcasing its ability to tackle fresh storylines while maintaining character-centric plots.
Character Development and Relationships
The evolving relationships between characters, particularly Rachel and Dana, are highlighted as key themes of the podcast discussion. It explores how Rachel's role in management and Dana's creative journey create conflict and humor in their relationship, emphasizing the struggles of personal versus professional dynamics within a corporate setting. This development includes how financial disparities and personal growth can strain relationships, providing relatable content for audiences. As the characters navigate their challenges, the podcast suggests that their well-crafted arcs deepen viewer investment in the series.
The Call for Fair Representation
The discussion transitions into the topic of representation within the gaming and voice acting industry, noting the ongoing challenges faced by actors, especially in the context of AI technology and labor rights. The host emphasizes the importance of personal agency for voice actors and the need for transparent agreements in using their likenesses and voices. The podcast notes that these issues are critical not only for the well-being of voice talents but also affect the authenticity of game characters themselves. By advocating for better working conditions, the podcast highlights the necessity of supporting creators for the sustainability of the entertainment industry.
Future of Creative Media
The podcast reflects on the potential future of creative media by contemplating the evolving relationship between gaming and television. As adaptations of games become more popular in mainstream media, the podcast suggests that we will see a continued blending of forms and storytelling approaches. This paradigm shift is evidenced by the growing acknowledgment of the artistic merit of games and their narratives. Finally, there is a call for a deeper understanding of different creative industries, reinforcing the value of diverse media experiences.
Ben and Jomi discuss their mutual affection for the Apple TV+ comedy ‘Mythic Quest,’ examine what makes the series stand out, and react to its return for a fourth season. Then they name their top five movies, TV shows, and novels about video games, game development, or gaming culture (1:20). After that, they talk to Ashly Burch, a prominent video game voice actor, ‘Mythic Quest’ costar, and writer/director/producer of ‘Mythic Quest’ and spinoff ‘Side Quest,’ about making both series, her prolific career, and the evolution of the games industry (1:09:00).
