Post Games
Chris Plante
Post Games is a listener-supported podcast about how and why we love video games. Each week, host Chris Plante reports on a new, overlooked, or underappreciated topic in gaming culture. Where did all the new porn games come from? What’s it like to be the AI that destroys the world? How has one award turned tiny indie game makers into big-name millionaires? With original interviews, writing, and a traditional audio-magazine structure, Plante keeps things entertaining, informative, and always under 90 minutes. Because Post Games is meant to be listened to, not buried in a backlog. Learn more at www.post.games. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 8, 2025 • 59min
The history (and secrets) of The Game Awards (Oli Welsh)
Oli Welsh, a senior editor and games journalist known for his insights on awards coverage, dives into the provocative history of The Game Awards. He reveals the transformation from the cringeworthy Spike VGAs to the present-day format, blending E3 reveals with awards. The discussion explores the ethical blur between advertisements and jury-voted awards, as well as the challenges of categorizing diverse game genres. Oli also predicts potential winners for 2025 and emphasizes the need for a broader jury perspective to elevate underrepresented games.
Dec 1, 2025 • 1h 5min
Two Blue Prince interviews, seven months apart (Tonda Ros)
Get video versions of every episode, bonus segments, and monthly exclusives for $5 at patreon.com/postgamesGet free show notes at post.gamesThis week on Post Games, “Life Before and After Releasing Blue Prince”:Act 1: The Days Before Blue PrincePatreon bonus: The Magic site that made Blue Prince possibleAct 2: The Days Before The Game AwardsPatreon bonus: Blue Prince: The Movie? Blue Prince 2?Act 3: News of the WeekSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Nov 24, 2025 • 1h 13min
18 reasons to be thankful for video games
Austin Walker, a critic and co-host of Friends at the Table, shares his appreciation for Boshi's Place, an essential venue for indie and experimental game culture in Brooklyn. He discusses how this grassroots hub fosters community and creativity in the gaming scene. Walker's insights highlight the importance of local spaces in supporting game developers and enriching the player experience, proving that behind every great game is a vibrant, collaborative environment.
Nov 17, 2025 • 44min
2025's scariest game recreates the site of a real tragedy (Piotr Surmacz)
Piotr Surmacz, CEO of 3R Games and former game composer, dives deep into the captivating world of VR and the harrowing tale behind Nutty Putty Cave. He shares his emotional journey discovering the cave’s tragic history on YouTube, which inspired him to recreate it in VR. Discussing design choices, Piotr reveals how claustrophobic experiences evoke fear, and why players seek thrilling yet safe escapism. Plus, he explores the balance of horror and exploration in gameplay, aiming for a profound emotional reaction from players.
Nov 10, 2025 • 1h 7min
What it's actually like to release a game in 2025 (Joel Burgess)
In this engaging chat, Joel Burgess, co-founder of indie studio Soft Rains and former lead designer at Bethesda, shares insights into launching their debut game, Ambrosia Sky. He discusses the challenges of founding an indie studio and the emotional rollercoaster of game release. Joel reveals the innovative non-gun combat design, the importance of feedback, and the decision to adopt an act-based release model. He also reflects on maintaining a humane workplace culture amidst industry stresses and the rewarding aspects of creating opportunities for other developers.
13 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 57min
Why people play games that scare them (Ashley Bardhan)
Ashley Bardhan, a noted games critic with a focus on horror, dives into why people are drawn to frightening games. She highlights the primal fears that horror taps into and contrasts the demographics of horror game enthusiasts with those of horror movie fans. Bardhan also discusses the therapeutic aspects of horror, sharing her own experiences with OCD and how exposure to fear can aid in recovery. With insights into gameplay mechanics and recommendations like the Silent Hill 2 remake, this conversation reveals the complex allure of horror in gaming.
Oct 27, 2025 • 55min
20 years later, Shadow of the Colossus still matters (Jacob Geller)
Join video essayist Jacob Geller, known for his deep cultural analyses of video games, as he delves into the lasting impact of Shadow of the Colossus. They discuss how the game uniquely combines emotional weight with artistic ambition and has remained relevant for two decades. Jacob shares personal anecdotes about his first encounter with the game and how his passion for it launched his career. They also explore the moral complexities of the colossus fights and how music enhances the emotional experience, solidifying the game’s status as an artistic treasure.
Oct 20, 2025 • 51min
Why Great Games Sometimes Flop (Simon Carless)
Simon Carless, founder of Game Discover Co. and a guru in game discoverability, shares insights on the art of ensuring great games aren't lost in the shuffle. He discusses tracking trends with tools like Steam scanning and the role of 'vibes' in player attraction. The conversation dives into the impact of discounts on game launches, revealing their potential to boost long-term revenue but not necessarily rescue initial failures. Carless emphasizes early consulting during development and explores the balancing act between artistic vision and market demands.
27 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 47min
The "Too Many Games" Problem (Jason Schreier)
Jason Schreier, a veteran video game reporter and author, dives deep into the paradox of gaming's abundance. He discusses how players enjoy a plethora of affordable games, but this overload creates headaches for developers struggling with visibility. As indie studios find it hard to stand out amid daily launches, larger publishers pivot to free-to-play models to reach wider audiences. Schreier also analyzes how platforms like Roblox shift expectations and how today's high-quality game surplus differs from past industry crashes.
12 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 1h
Demystifying Nintendo (Plus: Life as an NSFW gaming YouTuber)
Listeners dive deep into Nintendo's intriguing strategies, exploring why certain franchises are sidelined and the approach to the anticipated Switch 2. The second part features a revealing chat with a YouTuber specializing in NSFW gaming content, discussing the challenges of navigating YouTube's strict policies. Annie shares insights on creating safe spaces for sexual exploration in gaming and offers tips for those curious about venturing into adult-themed titles. The episode wraps up with industry updates and a highlight of a new demo that gamers won't want to miss.
