The Gaming Persona

Send us a textPicture this: you're playing a classic video game on your new console, the familiar worlds and characters rendered in stunning modern graphics, the original gameplay intact. But how do these old games come to life in our modern systems? Robin Lavallée, CEO of Implicit Conversions, takes us behind the scenes of game preservation and porting in this episode. With experiences spanning from the PSP to Ubisoft, Robin's gaming wisdom is as broad as it is deep.Think back to your favorite old games, the features that made them unique, the bugs that became features, and the feel of the controls in your hands. Now imagine bringing those games to a modern audience without losing any of their charm. Robin guides us through this intricate process, from preserving unique bugs in Final Fantasy VII to adapting control systems for new platforms. We dig into the art of choosing games for porting, and the challenges of finding testers who aren't familiar with the original game.But it doesn't stop there. Robin also gives us a peek into the world of Implicit Conversions, a company dedicated to keeping classic games alive for the current generation of gamers. We explore the joy of playing old games on new systems, and the importance of making them not just playable, but fun. So, join us on this journey through the heart of game development and preservation, and rediscover the magic of your favorite games.Support the showIf you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!You can watch us play games LIVE and join our communities to get more connection from every episode: DrGameology on Twitch - Continue the Journey LIVE in 2025!! MarcusB814 on YouTube - BOOMBA Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or Follow on Twitch to catch the Live Streams! For more info, check out DrGameology.com!More Links Here!Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!

Send us a textReady for an adventure through the digital realms of video games with a psychological twist? Join us as we unveil the concept of the Shadow Self lurking in our favorite games, and we promise it won't be your typical podcast episode. We're bringing our personal experiences to the table, with Jenny sharing how she navigated the terrors of Dead by Daylight and Final Fantasy 14, and Gene revealing his battles in Silent Hill and Resident Evil 4. We're not just talking games here, but the hero's journeys we've embarked upon, unearthing the mysteries of our own Shadow Selves.You might be wondering, what does Elden Ring or Breath of the Wild have to do with our daily fears and vulnerabilities? Well, imagine utilizing our gaming strategies to overcome those very real challenges. We share how we've taken on our Shadow Selves, the confrontations we've faced, and the boundaries we've learned to set. This isn't just about conquering digital realms but about embracing the growth and self-discovery that comes with it.And yes, we're going to address the elephant in the room - the Shadow Self can be downright scary. But, what if we told you that embracing it could be a powerful tool for self-empowerment? As we wrap up this episode, we'll discuss how acknowledging our shortcomings has shaped our gaming experiences and impacted our productivity. We'll leave you with a thought on self-validation and a teaser for our next digital quest. So, gear up and join us on this journey to confront your Shadow Self, both in the digital and real world.Support the showIf you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!You can watch us play games LIVE and join our communities to get more connection from every episode: DrGameology on Twitch - Continue the Journey LIVE in 2025!! MarcusB814 on YouTube - BOOMBA Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or Follow on Twitch to catch the Live Streams! For more info, check out DrGameology.com!More Links Here!Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!

Send us a textStrap on your headsets and grab your controllers, we're venturing into the fascinating realm of gamer sleep cycles! Have you ever wondered why we gamers are stereotypically associated with late-night marathons? Or how that impacts our brain's reward system? This week, we're turning off our screens and delving into this intriguing subject, sharing personal gaming updates and the hilarious excuses we make to keep gaming—no matter what.We channel our inner scientists, exploring the latest research on adult sleep habits in the gaming community. We also debunk some game-changing myths about sleep and share some innovative sleep apps and systems that can improve your mental wellness. And for those Magic: The Gathering and Final Fantasy fans, be prepared for an exciting discussion about the upcoming crossover! The conversation gets more intense as we highlight gaming as a skill and its connection to developmental psychology.But we don't stop at research; we share our personal experiences too. From strategies to cope with insomnia, to our individual bedtime routines—we're laying it all on the table. Hear about Jean's recent injury that's keeping him away from fighting games and learn how we manage the effects of blue light from gaming devices on our sleep. We wrap up with the importance of a healthy sleep schedule, especially for us gamers, and why consulting a primary care physician is vital when dealing with insomnia. Consider this your ultimate guide to understanding sleep patterns and its impact on your gaming and overall wellness!Support the showIf you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!You can watch us play games LIVE and join our communities to get more connection from every episode: DrGameology on Twitch - Continue the Journey LIVE in 2025!! MarcusB814 on YouTube - BOOMBA Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or Follow on Twitch to catch the Live Streams! For more info, check out DrGameology.com!More Links Here!Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!

Send us a textUncover the extraordinary influence of video games on our lives, relationships, and even our culture with Stanley Pierre-Louis, CEO and President of the Entertainment Software Association. Stanley brings us exclusive insights from the ESA’s 2023 report, revealing fascinating data on video gaming trends and their impact on business and entertainment. With a staggering 65% of people immersed in games, we delve into the expanding role of video games in our daily lives, the plethora of gaming genres, and the common misconceptions that surround this dynamic industry. Download the Report HereImmerse yourself in our discussion on the cross-over of mobile and console gaming, the shift in social interactions facilitated by games, and how gaming has the power to create lasting and meaningful relationships. We also delve into the intriguing world of video games in education, their potential for emotional development, cultural sensitivity, and fostering collaboration. The fascinating conversation continues as we also tackle the use of the age rating system by parents and caregivers to make informed decisions about their children's gaming habits.Join us as we explore the diverse benefits and potentials of gaming – from healing and treatment to enhancing emotional intelligence and cultural sensitivity. We examine the findings of the Entertainment Software Association's 2023 report, discussing the data-driven impacts of the video game industry on various facets of our lives. We invite you all to game on with us in this enlightening episode, where we not only celebrate the joy of gaming but also appreciate its power to affect our lives and relationships. So press play, and let's embark on this exciting journey together!Support the showIf you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!You can watch us play games LIVE and join our communities to get more connection from every episode: DrGameology on Twitch - Continue the Journey LIVE in 2025!! MarcusB814 on YouTube - BOOMBA Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or Follow on Twitch to catch the Live Streams! For more info, check out DrGameology.com!More Links Here!Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!

Send us a textCan your gaming experience be affected by your personal insecurities? Have you ever pondered the psychological implications behind your in-game choices? This episode addresses the impact of perfectionism and imposter syndrome on gamers, probing deep psychological layers of personal quests, from the gallant worlds of Magic the Gathering to the intricate narratives of Final Fantasy 16.We'll journey through the mental undercurrents that shape each player's decision, such as class selection, and how these choices reflect their real-life struggles. Imposter syndrome often leads to an avoidance of difficult tasks, pushing individuals to seek solace in video games. These feelings of inadequacy can even influence game masters, altering their ability to execute complex stories. Also, we'll navigate the perilous waters of microtransactions in games like Counter-Strike and Magic the Gathering Arena, their impact on those with imposter syndrome, and the dangerous obsession with perfection they foster.This episode is not just a discussion; it's an exploration of our human nature, a mirror reflecting our fears, doubts, and aspirations. We share our personal experiences, shedding light on the transformation of self-doubt into hope. We'll decode the psychology of accomplishment, unpacking the mentality of perfectionism and helping you navigate the unreal constructs of perfectionism and imposter syndrome. Ready to level up your understanding of gaming psychology? Game on!Support the showIf you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!You can watch us play games LIVE and join our communities to get more connection from every episode: DrGameology on Twitch - Continue the Journey LIVE in 2025!! MarcusB814 on YouTube - BOOMBA Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or Follow on Twitch to catch the Live Streams! For more info, check out DrGameology.com!More Links Here!Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!

Send us a textBrace yourselves for another thrilling journey into the world of gaming as Jenny, Gene, and Dr. Gameology make a grand return to The Gaming Persona! We spill the beans on our latest escapades - Jenny's transition to a new home, exhilarating gaming sessions, mastering Lord of the Rings, Magic the Gathering, and the Alien board game. Not to mention the gripping gameplay of Final Fantasy 16. Gene gives the lowdown on the gaming mechanics and how the real thrill starts with the new game plus - guaranteeing an engaging gaming experience like never before!We're not just concerned with gaming. We reminisce about our podcast journey of three years, revealing our rationale for the reboot and how we've evolved. Jenny shares her love-based approach to gaming and life, while Gene lends his unique perspective on the games we've covered over the years. As we wander into philosophical territory, we ponder the butterfly effect and how Gaming Persona has had a profound influence on our lives.In this episode, we also dig into how our love for gaming has propelled us professionally. We discuss the connection between the Gaming Persona podcast and our professional areas, all while not demonizing gaming. Hear about my recent promotion as the president of the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board and the newfound opportunities it presents. We delve into the mythic element of the podcast, the power of metaphors, and how the hero's journey can lead to a better understanding of ourselves. As a sweet bonus, we also anticipate the National Conference for Problem Gambling happening in Washington DC. So, get ready for an exciting journey through the gaming universe!Support the showIf you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!You can watch us play games LIVE and join our communities to get more connection from every episode: DrGameology on Twitch - Continue the Journey LIVE in 2025!! MarcusB814 on YouTube - BOOMBA Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or Follow on Twitch to catch the Live Streams! For more info, check out DrGameology.com!More Links Here!Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!

Send us a textEver wondered how our gaming memories can influence our lifespan? Tune in as we take you on a journey through the riveting world of video games. We discuss our recent encounters like Overwatch 2, Legends of Runeterra, Darkest Dungeon 2, and Diablo 4, and ponder the crucial factors of a successful game experience. Reflecting on our gaming memories, we share how nostalgia can significantly impact a game’s longevity.Get ready to explore the profound influence video games exert on our lives. We talk about the life lessons they provide, the innovative ways they gamify experiences, and how they teach us to confront success and failure. Listen as we delve into how games inspire resilience and offer a judgment-free environment to confront challenges. Passion is the driving force behind our gaming experiences, and we introduce a new three-tiered approach to categorize these experiences. In the concluding part of our conversation, we unearth our most memorable gaming moments and triumphs. We reminisce about achievements, moments of hope, and the deep bonds formed over games. We also share how intricate knowledge of a game can contribute to the meaningful experiences that video games offer. As we wrap up, we reflect on how these memories inspire us in our daily adventures and keep us motivated. Come and discover gaming’s role beyond mere entertainment.Support the showIf you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!You can watch us play games LIVE and join our communities to get more connection from every episode: DrGameology on Twitch - Continue the Journey LIVE in 2025!! MarcusB814 on YouTube - BOOMBA Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or Follow on Twitch to catch the Live Streams! For more info, check out DrGameology.com!More Links Here!Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!

Send us a textWhy don't games work when we're most excited to play them, and how do gaming communities recover from this disappointment? Those are the burning questions we tackle in this week's Gaming Persona podcast, where we share our experiences with the latest Lord of the Rings game, Gollum, and reminisce about the nostalgic 90's X-Wings from the book series and Nintendo 64 game, Rogue Squadron.We don't just stop there, as we reflect on the impact of the zeitgeist, exploring how popular media like Game of Thrones can change conversations over time and examining the motivations behind gaming developers' choices. We also analyze how some studios have managed to redeem their games and how studio heads can make or break a game's success. Get ready for an in-depth discussion on the importance of allowing ourselves to make mistakes without the intense need for perfectionism.As we dive into the darker side of gaming, we ponder the toxicity of some gaming communities and how this can deter newcomers from joining. Along with this, we explore the devastating impact of trauma and depression on our gaming lives, drawing on the example of Luke Skywalker. So hit play, and join us in our gaming community as we download the patch to continue the journey.Support the showIf you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!You can watch us play games LIVE and join our communities to get more connection from every episode: DrGameology on Twitch - Continue the Journey LIVE in 2025!! MarcusB814 on YouTube - BOOMBA Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or Follow on Twitch to catch the Live Streams! For more info, check out DrGameology.com!More Links Here!Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!

Send us a textThis week, we're discussing the release of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. We'll be taking a deep dive into Hyrule and what we expect for this new edition of the BotW formula. Plus, we'll hear from Dr. Gameology about what it was like to restart playing both BotW and FFXIV games at the same time. Join us this week as we discuss the worlds of Hyrule versus Eorzea with The Gaming Persona!Support the showIf you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!You can watch us play games LIVE and join our communities to get more connection from every episode: DrGameology on Twitch - Continue the Journey LIVE in 2025!! MarcusB814 on YouTube - BOOMBA Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or Follow on Twitch to catch the Live Streams! For more info, check out DrGameology.com!More Links Here!Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!

Send us a textThe latest episode of The Gaming Persona will discuss the positive mental health experience of playing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. We'll be talking about how this game encourages players to explore a wide-open world full of surprises and secrets, to take time away from the pressure of a linear narrative, and to appreciate the beauty and tranquility found in nature. We’ll also look at how the game's calming soundtrack helps to create a peaceful atmosphere for players to explore and relax. In addition, we'll be discussing how exploring a vast, open world can help relieve stress and anxiety while still providing challenging puzzles and battles that stimulate our mental acuity. Join us on this episode as we discover how The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild can positively influence our mental well-being!Support the showIf you would like to support the show and help us unlock additional possibilities for future episodes and projects, this can now be done through Patreon!You can watch us play games LIVE and join our communities to get more connection from every episode: DrGameology on Twitch - Continue the Journey LIVE in 2025!! MarcusB814 on YouTube - BOOMBA Subscribe on YouTube for more content on the Psychology of Gaming or Follow on Twitch to catch the Live Streams! For more info, check out DrGameology.com!More Links Here!Thanks for Listening, and Continue The Journey!