Joshua Rivera

Chris Plante, co-founder of Polygon and host of Post Games; Maddy Myers, former deputy editor at Polygon; and Joshua Rivera, freelance writer with deep Mario insights, come together for a lively draft of the greatest Mario games. They reminisce about their gaming origins, discuss the character's timeless appeal, and share hilarious personal anecdotes. The trio debates game mechanics while highlighting quirky Mario titles. With playful banter and nostalgia, they navigate the rich legacy of Mario in a fun, competitive format.

In this lively discussion, Matt James, Ringer's deputy art lead known for his gaming insights, joins Steve Ahlman, a senior audio producer with a passion for indie trends, and Joshua Rivera, a thoughtful critic offering cultural context on games. They dive into the impressive volume and quality of 2025's releases, share their 'naughty and nice' industry observations, and passionately draft their favorite games across categories. Highlights include Joshua's critique of Xbox strategy, Matt's hopes for Steam Frame, and a nostalgic pick for Final Fantasy Tactics.

Joshua Rivera, a prolific pop culture writer, joins the discussion to dive into 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.' He reflects on the show's nostalgic return to classic Trek storytelling, highlighting standout performances and critiquing underdeveloped characters. As they analyze Season 3's tonal shifts and gimmick-heavy episodes, the duo questions the series' alignment with Trek's core ideals. They ponder the future of the franchise, balancing innovation with nostalgia, while celebrating the enduring appeal of Star Trek as a comforting pop culture staple.

Join Matt James, Ringer's Deputy Art Lead, Brian Phillips, a senior staff writer and host of the '22 Goals' podcast, and Joshua Rivera, a seasoned contributor to Kotaku and Polygon. They dive into the intriguing adaptations of 'Like a Dragon: Yakuza,' discussing the blend of gaming and political engagement. The group also explores the evolution of Mario's humor, the thrills of 'Black Ops 6,' and unexpected joys in mobile Pokémon card battles. Their insights into industry dynamics and nostalgic gaming moments keep the conversation lively and entertaining!

Join first-time guest Joshua Rivera, a film enthusiast, as he delves into Fede Alvarez's ALIEN: ROMULUS and its place in the iconic franchise. They dissect the thrilling visual effects and thematic layers, especially corporate exploitation and existential themes. Joshua shares insights on character representation, questioning the depth of roles in the latest installment. The conversation also touches on the nostalgia of the franchise versus the corporation's influence, all while celebrating the immersive joy of viewing horror films in a theater.