The Gaming Backlog "Book Club"

9.5 Astral Chain Files 8-12

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Fri, 01 May 2026 21:56:34 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about the final Files of Astral Chain, sneaking through the sewers, taking down Yoseph, the crazy boss rush and final boss, and the ending.

Check in next time to learn about the next game from the backlog that we’ll be playing.

We want to hear what you thought of the ending of Astral Chain. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - Legatus: The Last 5 Files
(00:12:33) - Akira transforms into a Werewolf
(00:20:04) - Akira & The Ravens
(00:23:52) - Noah's Ark
(00:32:27) - Noah Prime Fight
(00:37:26) - Akira 2 Ending
(00:42:18) - Porta Potties
(01:00:45) - Astral Chain Connections

9.4 Astral Chain Files 6-7

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 22:06:15 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts discuss all the revelations from our venture into Zone 09 with our new pal Hal, meeting Kyle, being locked up and yet just too useful to not be put into action. Time to go save town once again thanks to our unique, superior skillset.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to hear about the a moment of calm before being thrust back into the fray and figuring out what on Earth is going on, in Astral Chain Files 8-12, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear how the early hours of Astral Chain went for you. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:02:22) - The Cat Sanctuary fast travel point
(00:04:32) - Tasting Congee
(00:08:01) - Bloodborne: The Kyle Fight
(00:11:38) - Stealth in non-stealth games
(00:14:33) - Discovery of Blue Evolve
(00:16:06) - Tartarus
(00:23:26) - The Raven reveal
(00:30:46) - The Winged Boss
(00:37:00) - Moving on
(00:39:00) - End

9.3 Astral Chain Files 4-5

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 22:23:55 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about the gathering of Legions and tracking down Jena Anderson in Astral Chain Files 4 and 5. We discuss the major story beats and new mysteries to unravel, the quirky set of side quests available to us this time around, and our favorite Legions to use and Legion skills.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to hear about the investigation into Yoseph and what we learn from our new friend HAL, in Astral Chain Files 6-7, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

Chapters

(00:03:15) - Police Get Fined For Crossing The Street on a Red Light
(00:07:31) - Jena Anderson
(00:09:10) - How to Defeat The Arm Legion
(00:11:08) - Goofy Lappy stories
(00:17:11) - The Lappy Diaries
(00:31:10) - Our Favorite Legion

9.2 Astral Chain Files 1-3

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:30:00 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about the opening of Astral Chain and the first 3 Files. We discuss our thoughts on the character creator, the action-packed gameplay, the brain games required to train ourselves to control two characters on two controllers, and picking up our first two Legion.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to hear about our mission to recover all the Legion in Astral Chain Files 4-5, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - Astral Chain
(00:01:25) - What Did You Name Your Character?
(00:03:23) - D&D 2's Character Creator
(00:05:42) - Akira In Cyberpunk 2077
(00:06:58) - Twin Voices in '
(00:08:04) - Neuron: Into the Chimera Dimension
(00:11:21) - Vending Machine Personalities
(00:12:14) - Dark Souls 2 Review
(00:16:36) - Neuron 2: The First Death
(00:21:37) - Maybe He's Still Alive in The Dark Jedi
(00:22:55) - Platoon 2 Review
(00:26:55) - God of War: The Legions
(00:30:41) - Dark Souls 2: Toilet Paper Side Quest
(00:32:39) - Cerberus Hades
(00:37:10) - Ideal For Playing '
(00:38:39) - Oblivion on The Last Jedi
(00:40:37) - Dynasty Warriors 2
(00:44:43) - Dark Souls: The Red and Blue Files

9.1 Expectations for Astral Chain

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Season 9 of The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” covers Astral Chain. We discuss our expectations for the game based on what we know of PlatinumGames and Character Action Games in general. Can we crack the case and uncover whatever mysteries await? Chain up, grab your favorite Legion, and join us for the journey through the Astral Plane.

Stay tuned for the next episode to discover how it went for us in Astral Chain Files 1-3, and share some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear your expectations for Astral Chain. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

8.7 Final Fantasy VI Part 6

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:30:00 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about Kefka’s Tower and the ending of Final Fantasy VI. Join us as we welcome Mavroid from the JRPG Book Club to discuss the lasting influence and legacy of FF6 and why it is still so beloved to this day.

Check in next time to learn about the next game from the backlog that we’ll be playing.

We want to know which party members you brought with you to finish Final Fantasy VI. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - FINAL FANTASY 6
(00:05:37) - Opera House Side Item
(00:09:40) - Dynasty vs Kefka
(00:17:14) - Bosses in Dark Souls
(00:22:02) - The Final Boss
(00:25:52) - How To Defeat Kefka in '
(00:31:16) - How to Beat the Tower
(00:46:36) - Final Fantasy 6 Review
(00:47:54) - The Music of Final Fantasy 7
(00:49:03) - Favorite characters in Final Fantasy VI
(00:53:44) - Nintendo Switch 2 vs. Super Nintendo Classic
(00:56:38) - Welcoming Mavroid from The JRPG Book Club
(01:02:27) - Favorite Final Fantasy Game
(01:05:55) - Final Fantasy 6
(01:08:32) - JRPG BOOK CLUB
(01:09:34) - Final Fantasy 6: The Bookend
(01:10:54) - Final Fantasy 6: A Classic Story
(01:14:09) - Final Fantasy 6: The Opera Scene
(01:18:46) - Final Fantasy 6: the Blue Mages
(01:21:46) - Final Fantasy 6: What Makes It So Classic?
(01:25:43) - The World of Balance: When the Protagonist Switches
(01:37:33) - Final Fantasy 6 Review
(01:45:12) - Suikoden 2 vs The Elite Elusian Chronicles
(01:48:01) - Who Would You Cast in a Final Fantasy VI movie or TV series in 2026?
(01:49:46) - Who To Cast As Kefka?

8.6 Final Fantasy VI Part 5

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:30:00 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about the open world segment of Final Fantasy VI. We discuss all the side quests, the character moments, the party re-recruitment, and the grind to be strong enough to take on Kefka.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to hear about about the finale storming Kefka’s Tower and achieving victory for the world in Final Fantasy VI Part 6, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear how the open world of FF6 went for you. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

8.5 Final Fantasy VI Part 4

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 18:20:43 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about leading Celes off of her solitary island, exploring the wastelands of the new world order, and reuniting with some party members after a whole year in a coma.

Stay tuned for next episode to hear about how we went about getting the band back together and grinding our way to a stronger party, in Final Fantasy VI Part 5, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear how this shocking version of the world we found ourselves in has been treating you. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - World of Ruin
(00:01:43) - Cid's Last Words
(00:07:36) - Gal and Sabin
(00:10:11) - Mobliz vs The Clock
(00:15:12) - Ella in The Frogger Mini-game
(00:21:18) - Dullahan's Holy Attack
(00:23:44) - How To Battle Dullahan in World of Balance

8.4 Final Fantasy VI Part 3

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 15:00:00 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about exploring the overworld by air and avoid the distractions of the onboard casino, the tense conversation over dinner, small towns off the beaten path with major secrets, acquiring new party members, peace talks with the espers, and more!

Stay tuned for next week's episode to hear about what happens next after the major shift in the status quo, in Final Fantasy VI Part 4, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear how your quest to find the espers went. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

8.3 Final Fantasy VI Part 2

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about splitting up the party multiple times, the famous Opera scene, and saving some espers in Final Fantasy VI. We share our favorite attacks across various party members, our love for Gau in combat, flashbacks galore, and just how cruel Kefka can really be.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to hear about what happened once we took the wheel of Setzer’s airship in Final Fantasy VI Part 3, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear how the early hours of FF6 went for you. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:02) - Final Fantasy 7: The Battle Against Kefka
(00:04:20) - How to split your party
(00:07:17) - Kefka Art!
(00:16:34) - The Memory of Rachel
(00:25:50) - The Clock Puzzle
(00:29:07) - Summons
(00:32:52) - The Opera Scene
(00:49:20) - "It Keeps Me Alive"

8.2 Final Fantasy VI Part 1

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about the early moments of Final Fantasy VI. We discuss our thoughts on the various party members, our favorite moves in battle, and the goofy moments that make this experience such a gem even 32 years later.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to hear about what happened once we got the party back together in Final Fantasy VI Part 2, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

SQ1.2 Hades first impressions

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 19:00:00 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts share first impressions about Hades after putting some time into the game and playing through a handful of runs. They discuss their preferred weapons and playstyles so far, and share tips, tricks & stories from the early hours.

Danny from RoguePod LiteCast joins us to discuss the intricacies of roguelites and his experience with Hades, and even provides a few valuable pointers that are sure to come in handy as we progress further in the game.

Stay tuned for the final episode of this first Side Quest season at an undetermined time in the future to discuss Hades as a whole, the various story beats, story variances, and true ending.

We want to know how you’ve approached your first escape attempts from the underworld of Hades so far. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:02) - Hades SideQuest
(00:00:43) - 'Call of the Underworld': Chugging Along
(00:01:30) - Hades: First Impressions
(00:06:43) - Hercules Review
(00:13:25) - "I don't like the sword"
(00:13:56) - God of War Leviathan Axe
(00:28:05) - Portal to the Underworld
(00:29:43) - The Ultimate Roguelite Tier List
(00:31:20) - What is a Roguelike?
(00:34:01) - How Deep Do You Go In With Roguelites?
(00:37:15) - How to Play a Roguelite
(00:38:50) - Hades 2
(00:45:43) - Dead Cells
(00:53:00) - Upgrading Boons
(01:06:51) - Prepping for the final Hades episode

8.1 Expectations for Final Fantasy VI

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 16:15:00 +0000

Season 8 of The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” covers Final Fantasy VI. We discuss our expectations for the game based on what we know of the Final Fantasy franchise, the games in the series we have already played and the fact we’ve always wanted to play FF6 and somehow managed to avoid spoilers since 1994.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discover what order we tackled the scenarios in and our first impressions of Final Fantasy VI, and share some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear your expectations for Final Fantasy VI. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

SQ1.1 Expectations for Hades

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 16:30:00 +0000

The first Side Quest season of The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” covers Hades. This season will take a different and extended format to our normal ones because the roguelike genre is so hard to encapsulate into our typical week-to-week season format considering the learned knowledge and/or skills, or unlocked items they involve and require. We discuss our expectations for Hades based on what we have heard or know from other Supergiant Games. Time to escape the Underworld, one relationship at a time.

Stay tuned for our next Side Quest episode for our first impressions of how things are looking after awakening in Hades, and share some tips, tricks and stories along the way. Additionally stay tuned for our first season 8 episode to hear more about which game our next normal season will be about.

We want to hear your expectations for Hades. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - The Gaming Backlog Book Club: Side Quests
(00:01:45) - Fallout 4 Remake
(00:03:23) - Hades 1.0
(00:05:22) - Hades: A Roguelike Story Review
(00:09:54) - Have You Played Any Roguelikes?
(00:12:00) - D&D: Isometric Action Games
(00:14:19) - Starting Hades

7.9 Fallout 4 Part 8

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 22:54:30 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about the Fallout 4 Far Harbor story expansion DLC and reflect on the Fallout 4 experience as a whole. Join us as we explore the existential side of what it really means to be a human or a synth, all while interacting with fishermen, cult members, and yes, more synths. Additionally, hear our final analysis on the game along with our individual reviews and some parting thoughts of Fallout 4.

Check in next time to learn about the next game from the backlog that we’ll be playing.

We want to know which Far Harbor faction you sided with, which ending you achieved, and your overall take on Fallout 4. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

7.8 Fallout 4 Part 7

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 22:00:03 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts walk through the endings they achieved in Fallout 4. We discuss the intricacies of the various faction routes and goals, and how exactly we reached the ending of the main story quest.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to join us in Far Harbor to explore the first major story expansion of the game, in Fallout 4 Part 8, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear about which ending of Fallout 4 you got and how you felt about the way the main quest wrapped up. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - Skyrim
(00:08:14) - Other companions in Fallout 4
(00:10:58) - Undercover at the Cambridge Polymer Labs
(00:12:48) - The Synths' Fight for Their Freedom
(00:24:31) - The Brotherhood of Steel vs The Institute
(00:26:08) - How To Play Along With The Brotherhood
(00:31:32) - Ideal For The Brotherhood of Steel
(00:43:05) - How to Defeat the Railroad in Fallout 4
(00:50:10) - Members of the Brotherhood of Steel
(00:53:16) - Fallout 4: The Minutemen & Institute Endings?
(00:56:55) - Fallout 4: Railroad Story playthrough
(00:58:44) - Next Time: Far Harbor

7.7 Fallout 4 Part 6

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 00:44:00 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts break down the various ways to find a teleportation device and get access to the Institute. It doesn’t look like we’ll get there without picking sides though, so we hope you chose wisely. What will happen once we’re inside? Let’s find out!

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discuss the end of the main story quest of Fallout 4 in Part 7, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories before we jump into some of the Fallout 4 DLC expansions.

We want to hear which faction you chose in Fallout 4 and what happened as you made progress. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:05:55) - Molecular Level
(00:10:02) - How to Make a Synth Teleportation Platform
(00:13:02) - Post-Molecular Level SPOILER ALERT
(00:13:51) - The Network Scanner
(00:14:39) - The Origins of Father In The Elevator
(00:17:05) - How To Escape From The Institute
(00:22:33) - Turning Human In His Lab
(00:23:47) - Fallout 4: The Institute Music
(00:25:13) - Fallout 4 vs. Uncharted 4
(00:28:44) - Members of the Brotherhood Join The Minutemen
(00:36:11) - Minutemen 3D
(00:40:33) - Nick Valentine's Revenge
(00:42:53) - The Witch Museum

7.6 Fallout 4 Part 5

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 16:30:00 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts discuss their adventures crossing the Glowing Sea to enlist the help of dear old Virgil in their mission to infiltrate the Institute and find Shaun. But first, they put in the effort to butter up some faction members and completed side quests galore, because this is Fallout, and that is what wastelanders do.

Stay tuned for next episode to listen in on the chemistry and physics lecture explaining the Molecular Level, as that appears to be the only way to locate the Institute and take them down. Join us for Fallout 4 Part 6, and trade tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear how you handled the Glowing Sea of the Commonwealth and the horrors lurking within its endless radioactive cloud. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:02) - Welcome back to The Gaming Backlog "Book Club"
(00:01:54) - The quest
(00:02:53) - The Silver Shroud Quest
(00:04:07) - Nick Valentine's Companion Quest
(00:07:04) - Silver Shroud
(00:09:46) - Lost on Patrol quest
(00:13:06) - The Brotherhood of Steel Quest
(00:16:52) - Taking Independence Quest
(00:18:22) - How To Take Independence From The Queen
(00:22:59) - How To Find A Secret Society From The Maze
(00:27:35) - How did you go about this quest
(00:30:21) - Piper Gets A Hazmat Suit
(00:31:30) - Other Side Quests
(00:35:42) - Brotherhood quests
(00:38:34) - How To Get The Sword Back From My Dad
(00:41:53) - Mr. Handys
(00:44:56) - Speak of the Devil
(00:52:04) - Super Mutant
(00:58:02) - Fatekeeper
(00:59:54) - Hunter Hunted

7.5 Fallout 4 Part 4

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 22:18:22 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts discuss making progress in Fallout 4’s main story. We’ve finally caught the scent of Shaun’s kidnapper and work our way through his compound, followed by some psychoanalysis into what he’s been up to and where Shaun might be. Of course this wouldn’t be Fallout without constant diversions into other parts of the Commonwealth, so the hosts delve into their various misadventures along the way before we head to the Glowing Sea.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to hear how we tackled the next main quests and totally random side quests in Fallout 4 Part 5, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear what you made of the revelations from Kellogg. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

7.4 Fallout 4 Part 3

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 21:33:07 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts discuss the entrance to another vault and run-in with some old fashioned mobsters to recover Detective Nick Valentine. We sure hope that busting him out will convince him to find some clues in our search for Shaun.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to hear how we approached the next steps in the journey and got distracted every step of the way, in Fallout 4 Part 4, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear how your mission to free the detective from his captors went. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

7.3 Fallout 4 Part 2

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 15:30:00 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat more about Fallout 4. We make our slow, distracted, winding way South across the Commonwealth until we find Diamond City and try to find some leads.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to hear how we went about tackling the next main quests and discover brand new distractions to keep us occupied in Fallout 4 Part 3, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear how your trek to Diamond City went in Fallout 4. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - Fallout 4: 10 Years Anniversary Edition Review
(00:01:35) - New Vegas 15th Anniversary Bundle Review
(00:04:18) - Outer Worlds 2 Review
(00:05:33) - Fallout 4
(00:08:14) - D&D 2
(00:11:45) - Pipe Weapons in 'Dota 2'
(00:14:23) - GTA 3: The Radio Soundtracks
(00:19:02) - Is Dogmeat Still Your Companion in '
(00:19:49) - Mr. Handy From The Fallout Show
(00:20:22) - Cosworth Is The Best Robot Companion
(00:21:50) - Raiders in Dark Souls
(00:23:26) - Dark Souls 2
(00:27:35) - Paladin Dance: Setting Up the Generator
(00:30:15) - Empire 2: A Tutorial
(00:33:59) - Destiny 2: Super Mutants
(00:36:31) - Fallout 4: Free Quills For Players
(00:39:11) - Oh, and some other stuff
(00:39:30) - Fallout 4: The Main Quest
(00:43:18) - How Long Does 'Eve' Take to Beat?
(00:44:09) - D&D: The Green Monster
(00:47:38) - What Is Baseball In Dark Souls?
(00:50:55) - How To Play Fallout 2: Trading Items

7.2 Fallout 4 Part 1

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 15:30:00 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about the early hours of Fallout 4. We discuss what it’s like to narrowly escape eradication by going underground, then after a brief stint in a vault, venture back above ground into radioactive Boston for the first time, meet some settlers, fend off some raiders, and wonder what comes next in this raucous adventure to find our kid.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to hear how we approached the next main quest and engaged in open world shenanigans in Fallout 4 Part 2, all while sharing some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear how the early hours of Fallout 4 went for you. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - Fallout 4: The Early Moments
(00:02:29) - How long did you spend in Character Creator?
(00:07:03) - Ghouls
(00:09:37) - Fallout 2: Secret Life of Vault 111
(00:13:22) - Donkey Kong Arcade Clone
(00:14:51) - Codsworth the Robot
(00:16:47) - Lock Picking in Fallout 4
(00:21:22) - Fallout 4: Mods Available
(00:22:14) - Raiders vs. Minutemen
(00:24:11) - Unlocking the Facial Unlock Codes
(00:27:21) - The Power Armor
(00:29:18) - Silent Hill 2: Finding a Tunnel
(00:32:13) - When Freedom Calls
(00:35:44) - How to complete the '
(00:38:49) - 'D&D': How to level up
(00:42:44) - Oh My! Bottle Caps Are Now the Money
(00:43:32) - Silent Hill 2: Experience Points
(00:48:33) - Eve 2: Choking Contest

7.1 Expectations for Fallout 4

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Season 7 of The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” covers Fallout 4. We discuss our expectations for the game based on what we know of the Fallout franchise, between following the video game industry in general over the years, watching friends play it and hearing their praise for the series, and the Amazon Prime Fallout TV series that we both loved the first season of. Season 2 is coming up soon so to kick off our anticipation, we’re ready to emerge from our vault into the wasteland and uncover the stories of post-apocalyptic Boston.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discover how it went for us in Fallout 4 Part 1, and share some tips, tricks and stories along the way.

We want to hear your expectations for Fallout 4. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

6.5 Silent Hill 2 Part 4

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 22:20:32 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about the final hours of Silent Hill 2 Remake. Join us to go over the ultimate descent into fear and madness, the major revelations of the story, and our final thoughts based on this being our introduction to the franchise. Will we be able to finally take out Pyramid Head, find Mary and make it out alive? We sure hope so.

Check in next time to learn about the next game from the backlog that we’ll be playing.

We want to know what you thought of the finale of Silent Hill 2, which ending you achieved, whether you’ll be jumping into New Game Plus or playing another Silent Hill game soon, and what’s next on your gaming backlog to start playing soon. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - Silent Hill: The Labyrinth (2018)
(00:03:46) - How To Fight The Boss
(00:04:38) - Silent Hill 2 Ending Explained
(00:08:36) - Mandarin Enemies in 'Resident Evil 2'
(00:13:14) - How to Survive The Twilight Zone
(00:17:34) - James' Creepiest Alarm
(00:20:34) - Resident Evil 1: The Boss Fight
(00:25:07) - How To Fight Eddie in 'Groundhog Day'
(00:30:17) - James' Fight In 'The Dark Knight'
(00:31:04) - The Escape From The Labyrinth
(00:36:56) - Puzzles of The Hotel
(00:38:35) - How To Survive The Disney Hotel
(00:42:41) - James In The Elevator
(00:44:25) - James and the Princess Puzzle
(00:47:40) - Silent Hill Episode 3
(00:51:30) - Angela In Silent Hill 2
(00:53:26) - Double Pyramid Head Boss Fight
(00:56:04) - Final Boss Fight
(00:59:27) - Silent Hill 3D Ending
(01:03:08) - "Silent Hill" Ending
(01:05:11) - Silent Hill 3 Ending Explained
(01:08:55) - The Otherworld Explained
(01:14:39) - Silent Hill: Pyramid Head
(01:19:44) - Silent Hill 2 Remake Review
(01:23:22) - Silent Hill F Review
(01:23:55) - Silent Hill 2 Review
(01:26:19) - Silent Hill 2 Movie Ending Thoughts
(01:27:35) - How To Survive The Maze
(01:31:10) - How to Play The Labyrinth
(01:32:14) - What Are The Numbers On The Back of the Strange Photos In Silent
(01:35:51) - Silent Hill 2: Born From A Wish

6.4 Silent Hill 2 Part 3

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Jump down into the pitch black darkness of the Toluca Prison with The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts and see what lurks beneath. Somebody here in Silent Hill knows what’s going on and where Mary is, but it’s certainly not James. We chat about just how scary a horror game can get and just what pure, total darkness mixed abstract sounds and chittering enemies does to a person. Will we ever find our way out of Silent Hill? Time will tell, if our minds stay sane that long.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to finish off Silent Hill 2 Remake Part 2, and share tips for New Game Plus as well as any wild stories you have.

We want to hear how your journey, from the Brookhaven Hospital to, into and through the Toluca Prison went. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:02) - Silent Hill: Return to the Hospital
(00:03:00) - Resident Evil 2: The Otherworld (2018)
(00:03:38) - The Lost History of Salem
(00:07:54) - Silent Hill 2: Clean Up After Dark
(00:11:35) - Silent Hill: The Great Plague
(00:14:36) - The Prison Archaeology in
(00:19:03) - How To Survive The Prison
(00:22:39) - Silent Hill 2: Eddie the Prisoner
(00:25:13) - Toluca Lake
(00:29:30) - James Is Lost In The Prison
(00:33:43) - Inside the Prison
(00:38:55) - Mannequins vs Spider Mannequin
(00:43:47) - Silent NBA2K15
(00:43:55) - The Prison Poem
(00:45:08) - Punishment
(00:46:59) - Read the Gallows Poem
(00:50:06) - How To Play 'Eminence'
(00:51:16) - Silent Hill 2: Prison
(00:52:44) - Darkest Prison In Silent Hill
(00:53:53) - Silent Hill 2: The Labyrinth Ending

6.3 Silent Hill 2 Part 2

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 20:05:50 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about meeting new mysterious companions, chasing after skittish friends (or are they foes?) and making their way through the abandoned hospital in Silent Hill 2 Remake. The fog never ends in Silent Hill, but that’s the least of your worries. The hospital is chock full of jump scares, frightening music, and a brand new enemy type to worry about.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to find out what happens in Silent Hill 2 Remake Part 3, and share further tips, experiences and stories.

We want to know how the brain creep of Silent Hill 2 is treating you, up through the end of the hospital. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - Silent Hill 2: Remake Review
(00:01:45) - No More Mary in The Pathway
(00:06:42) - Silent Hill 2: Pizza Collectible Item
(00:10:27) - Defenders of the Horizon and Trample
(00:14:25) - Mashing a button in the hospital
(00:15:37) - Bubble Nurses
(00:20:54) - How To Fight A Mannequin
(00:24:25) - Physics in The Maze
(00:28:02) - How To Defeat Flesh Lip (
(00:32:02) - Silent Hill 2: The Otherworld Hospital
(00:33:44) - Halloween 2: Locked Box Puzzle
(00:37:57) - How To Defeat James in 'Eve'
(00:41:25) - Dark Souls 2: Ending
(00:42:29) - Imagine a Silent Hill Movie
(00:45:09) - Hideo Kojima's New Silent Hill

6.2 Silent Hill 2 Part 1

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 19:22:02 +0000

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” hosts chat about the early hours of Silent Hill 2 Remake. We discuss the creepy ambience, the incredible music, soundscapes and sound effects, and our struggles to come to grips with the controls while trying to stop wasting health items. Our first run-ins with the various enemies and derelict buildings have us both anxious and excited to journey on and find Mary.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discover how it went for us in Silent Hill 2 Remake Part 2, and share some tips, tricks and stories.

We want to hear how the early hours of Silent Hill 2 went for you, up through the various apartment buildings. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

6.1 Expectations for Silent Hill 2

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Season 6 of The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” covers Silent Hill 2 Remake. We discuss our expectations for the game based on the very limited knowledge we have about the Silent Hill franchise, its lore and past experiences with horror and survival horror video games. Silent Hill 2 is set to be the creepiest and most unsettling of them all, so it’s time to lead into the fall season with this timeless classic.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discover how it went for us in Silent Hill 2 Remake Part 1, and share some tips, tricks and stories.

We want to hear your expectations for Silent Hill 2. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:02) - What Have You Been Playing Recently?
(00:03:13) - Silent Hill 2: Return to the Original
(00:04:45) - Silent Hill 2 Preview
(00:09:16) - Is Alien Isolation a Horror Game?
(00:12:27) - Silent Hill 2 Review
(00:13:09) - Silent Hill 2: The Movie and Story
(00:15:36) - Will You Buy The Dead Space Remake?
(00:16:31) - Silent Hill 2: Survival Horror
(00:17:50) - Silent Hill Movie: Return to Silent Hill
(00:21:20) - David Tennant on Playing Silent Hill 2
(00:23:52) - Silent Hill 2: Starting Soon!

5.4 Undertale pacifist vs. genocide routes

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Hosts Andrew and Alex dive deep into what friendship is all about, how far they will go to achieve their assigned objective, and try to figure out just what is so bad exactly about a bunch of monsters. Undertale flips the script on the typical video game and serves up the answers, and more!

Check in next time to learn about the next game from the backlog that we’ll be playing.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - Undertale: The pacifist vs genocide route
(00:02:38) - Ideal For The Ruins: Sparing The Love
(00:04:35) - Papyrus vs Undyne
(00:07:42) - How To Defeat Muffet
(00:10:28) - The Creepy Dinner Story
(00:12:24) - How to survive the Metaton boss fight
(00:13:28) - "To See If You're a Time Traveler"
(00:15:45) - Ending of The Dark Souls
(00:20:43) - How to Survive The Azuriel Fight
(00:22:05) - How To Fight Asgore in
(00:26:30) - Mew Mew: The Story of the Movie
(00:27:36) - White Dwarf: The Genocide Run
(00:30:24) - Genocide : Dark Souls
(00:34:22) - Undyne vs Mettaton
(00:38:50) - Sans is the Final Boss in
(00:45:04) - Game Review: The Genocide Route
(00:46:44) - Undertale vs Earthbound
(00:50:18) - Deltarune and the Backlog
(00:51:09) - Battlefield 1: The Backlog
(00:52:40) - Bullet Hell: The Pandemic Story

5.3 Undertale neutral route

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Hosts Andrew and Alex finish a full first run of Undertale, laugh, fight, question everything (namely their decisions), and make friends along the way while navigating the Underground.

Take your next route to one extreme or another, or both, and meet us for next week's episode to to discuss the similarities and differences between the true pacifist and genocide routes of Undertale.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:02) - Undercover: Ending Spoilers
(00:00:26) - Punishment: The First Impression
(00:03:04) - How To Fight in
(00:07:16) - Turtle Shopkeeper on Deltarune and Undertale
(00:07:57) - Bullet Hell vs Cuphead
(00:10:52) - Grim Reaper: The spider girl
(00:14:03) - How to Defeat Mettaton in '
(00:17:21) - Mettaton 2: A Nice Throwback to Earthbound
(00:18:31) - How To Play 'Eve'
(00:21:31) - Undertale: The Best Enemies
(00:23:42) - Metaton vs Asgore
(00:27:47) - How to survive the first battle
(00:29:16) - How To Survive 'Eve'
(00:32:25) - "The Dark Ages" Ending
(00:33:17) - Dark Souls 2 Ending 1
(00:35:35) - How Did Your Neutral Run End?

5.2 Undertale first impressions

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 20:24:00 +0000

Hosts Andrew and Alex share first impressions about Undertale up until arriving at Snowdin, take account of the various oddball jokes and the more forced jokes too, swap tips on battling monsters, and look forward to meeting even more quirky NPCs throughout the rest of the neutral route playthrough. Undertale is a joy to explore and we’re here for it.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discuss Undertale’s neutral route, the 2 out of 85 neutral route endings that we end up getting, and a more in-depth discussion of the story.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - Hollow Silksong Drama, Indie Games Delayed
(00:01:46) - Undertale: First Impressions
(00:04:51) - Madden 15: Funny Moments
(00:08:31) - No More Monsters: A Quiz
(00:12:44) - Papyrus vs Dog
(00:15:25) - Dragon Age: How to Sleep in the World
(00:18:57) - Castlevania: On Switch
(00:20:22) - The Ghost of Snowden Town
(00:21:39) - How To Play 'Neutral'

5.1 Expectations for Undertale

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Season 5 of The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” is all about Undertale which we plan to complete over a few weeks. Let’s all head underground and decide how best to deal with the monsters below. Will you be the best bud or the true monster? Only time will tell.

Listen to the next episode to hear our spoiler-free first impressions about Undertale after the first few hours and pick up some tips & tricks for ways to get through things.

We want to hear what you think will be happening in Undertale. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

4.2 Katana Zero full playthrough

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Hosts Andrew and Alex help Subject Zero uncover the mysteries of his past, find out what the hell Chronos is, and slice their way through, rewind, and then slice through the same countless enemies again and again. The truth is out there. Who knew comedy gold and gritty psychological conspiracies could be delivered by the edge of a katana blade? What did you think about your cycling time through Katana Zero?

Be kind, rewind, and stay tuned for next week's episode to learn about the next game from the backlog that we’ll be playing.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

4.1 Expectations for Katana Zero

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 15:30:00 +0000

The third bottle season of The Gaming Backlog “Book Club” is all about Katana Zero and its time-bending, bullet-deflecting, fast-paced action with a bumping soundtrack. There is some degree of story here and it’s up to you to help Zero regain his memories. Your hosts share their expectations and limited assumptions about the Katana Zero and are ready to take on every thug that comes their way.

Listen to the next episode for the discussion on the full playthrough of Katana Zero.

We want to know what you’re expecting out of Katana Zero. Will you be one of the many fans eagerly awaiting its DLC? Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:02) - Katana Zero
(00:02:52) - Katana Zero
(00:05:28) - Katana Zero

3.2 Stray full playthrough

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Jump, scratch and meow along with hosts Alex and Andrew about their playthroughs of Stray, as they discuss the ups and downs of being a cat in a dystopian world full of robots under the watchful eyes of more than one type of unknown surveillance. Stray surprised us first with the existence of its story and again with the depth of that story. It is more than a simple “be a cat doing cat things” experience, even though those elements of Stray are very enjoyable. What did you think about your escape from the Dead City and all of its cyberpunk charm?

Stay tuned for next week's episode to learn about the next game from the backlog that we’ll be playing.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - Stray: The Metal Gear Solid 6, The Cat
(00:02:56) - Fooled by Nature: The Cat Movie
(00:05:30) - Cat vs Robot in '
(00:08:59) - Stray: Taking a Cat Nap
(00:12:00) - Zerg vs Aliens
(00:14:19) - How to survive in The Dark Souls
(00:16:21) - Back to the Future
(00:17:13) - Bloody Bastion
(00:19:24) - Cats 2: Dying 9 Times
(00:23:36) - Blazer Double Crosses Clementine
(00:26:13) - Oblivians vs The Outsiders
(00:30:25) - The Robots Are Completely Gone
(00:32:50) - Zerk vs Cat in '
(00:35:19) - Stray: A Short Stealth Game

3.1 Expectations for Stray

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 15:30:00 +0000

The second consecutive bottle season of The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” is Stray which we'll venture through in a single week. After sharing expectations and prior knowledge about the game, it’s time to see what an unassuming cat thrust into a dark, neon-lit cyberpunk world filled with humanoid robots has in store for us.

Listen to the next episode for the discussion on the full playthrough of Stray, right meow!

We want to hear what you think will be happening in Stray. Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:02) - Stray
(00:06:27) - Meowing at Robots in 'Tutorial'
(00:08:04) - Stray
(00:09:24) - How To Play Stray

2.2 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time full playthrough

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Hosts Andrew and Alex chat about both the arcade and Super Nintendo versions of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time. The nostalgia trip was well worth the time traveling adventure and made us appreciate the present iteration of this classic beat ‘em up even more. A game from 34 years ago could be considered the depths of the video game backlog and the fact it is even possible to revisit in the first place is much appreciated.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to learn about the next game from the backlog that we’ll be playing.

What did you think about your blast from the past Ninja Turtles style? Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:02) - Teens in Time: Review
(00:03:20) - Super Castlevania 2: The Super Nintendo Port
(00:07:55) - Turtle Time Travel
(00:11:05) - The Hyperstone Heist
(00:14:47) - The TMNT: From Turtles In Time to Blu-Ray Review
(00:17:13) - Turtles in Time: A Retrospective
(00:21:53) - Shredder's Revenge Review
(00:22:51) - The Ninja Turtles: Into the World
(00:23:43) - Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Rita's Rewind
(00:25:25) - Turtles In Time

2.1 Expectations for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Hosts Andrew and Alex invite users to join The Gaming Backlog "Book Club” in their first bottle season and play through Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time in a single week. After sharing expectations and prior knowledge about the game, we’re ready to grab a pizza and get going. Both the arcade and SNES versions of TMNT: Turtles in Time are available as part of the Cowabunga Collection and we will play through both.

Listen to the next episode for the discussion on the full playthrough of Turtles in Time. Cowabunga dude!

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - What Have You Been Playing Since Ending Death Stranding?
(00:02:52) - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles In Time
(00:08:50) - TMNT: Shredder's Revenge
(00:09:53) - Tom Holland On The Turtles In Time
(00:13:08) - Turtles in Time: A Blast From The Past
(00:17:28) - How To Play Turtles In Time

1.9 Death Stranding Episodes 9-15

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Hosts Andrew and Alex chat about Death Stranding's final episodes 9-15 and ending. Well, we’ve reached the end credits of Death Stranding and what a Ride it’s been! Listen to our final thoughts on the ending and the game as a whole, as well as expectations for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to learn about the next game from the backlog that we’ll be playing.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:02) - Hideo Kojima: The End of The Game (Season
(00:02:03) - Blowing Up the BT
(00:06:43) - Death Stranding 2: Edgenaut City Looks Like A Real
(00:11:46) - Otter Herd and Sunglasses
(00:12:10) - Deadman on The Shape of Water
(00:14:21) - Jellyfish Blobby Bts
(00:18:47) - How to Survive the Lion
(00:22:28) - How to Survive the Crypto Buyer
(00:26:03) - Good Old Fashioned Fight
(00:30:28) - Exploring the Chiral Network in '
(00:31:45) - The Pizza Guy Is Dead
(00:32:54) - Peter Higgs in the 4th email
(00:36:52) - Prepper Pizza in the Prepper Shelter
(00:39:30) - Clifford Unger vs. Metal Gear Solid 3
(00:43:27) - Die Hardman vs Amelie in 11
(00:46:06) - episode 12 of Stranger Things
(00:46:28) - CryptoBlast 2
(00:51:20) - Giant Whale vs Unger
(00:54:54) - Death Stranding 2 Boss Fight
(00:57:33) - The End of The Maze
(01:01:02) - Death Stranding 2: Ending Explained
(01:04:55) - Metal Gear Solid: Director's Cut
(01:06:58) - How To Play '
(01:09:35) - The Higgs hologram
(01:11:28) - How I Found My Death Stranding
(01:13:38) - Death Stranding: Worth Its 10 Hours
(01:16:26) - God of War: Making a Father
(01:19:01) - Death Stranding: A Review/
(01:24:05) - Death Stranding 2: Creepy, Crazier
(01:26:58) - Death Stranding 2: The Gaming Backlog Book Club

1.8 Death Stranding Episode 8

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Hosts Andrew and Alex chat about Death Stranding's Episode 8: Heartman. After linking up more of the network, we prepare to cross the tar belt and head towards Edge Knot City. Compare your experiences, opinions and expectations for what's next. Time to ramp up the story as we head into the final third.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discuss Death Stranding's Episodes 9-14.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - Death Stranding 2 Soundtrack
(00:02:11) - Discovery of the Death Stranding
(00:06:54) - Hartman's Episode 1
(00:11:16) - Antimatter Bomb
(00:16:05) - Anti-Bomber
(00:18:01) - Physics: The Last Order of the Episode
(00:25:23) - Die Hardman
(00:27:19) - Hartman: The Death Stranding Is Likely Just the Latest
(00:34:04) - I Got Dragged Out Of The Truck By A BT
(00:38:50) - Norman Reedus Licks Everyone's Face in This
(00:39:33) - Death Stranding: How To Finish Episode 9

1.7 Death Stranding Episodes 6 & 7

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Hosts Andrew and Alex chat about Death Stranding's Episode 6: Deadman and Episode 7: Clifford. We go on a side quest as main quest marathon here to reconnect the network and let BB recuperate, as another supercell approaches. Compare your experiences, opinions and expectations for what's next. Time to find out what Heartman has in store for us next week.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discuss Death Stranding's Episode 8.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - Ghost of Yotei
(00:01:32) - Death Stranding SPOILERS
(00:04:42) - Black Hole: Episode 6 Ending Explained
(00:08:25) - Biking Through BT Dogs' Territory
(00:09:51) - Requirement Orders: A Side Quest
(00:15:33) - BTS vs Mountaineer
(00:20:21) - How To Steal a Camera From a Thief
(00:25:27) - How to survive on a truck
(00:29:59) - The Secret of Whiteout
(00:32:06) - How to get to the Spiritualist in the Whiteout
(00:35:52) - Dark Souls: World War 2 Cutscene
(00:40:06) - Deadman Ending Explained
(00:41:31) - Unlock the Private Room Locker
(00:42:27) - Die Hardman on The Zipline
(00:46:17) - A few roads back to the camps
(00:47:23) - Bruce Willis on Heartman in the Hollows
(00:49:32) - Die Hard Man vs Hartman
(00:51:55) - Death Stranding: Episode 8 Review

1.6 Death Stranding Episodes 4 & 5

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Hosts Andrew and Alex chat about Death Stranding's Episode 4: Unger and Episode 5: Mama. After a quick journey to seemingly another dimension, we learn about Mama and why she can’t leave her own lab building. The engineer behind most of your gadgets has plenty to unveil and the cast of the story continues to grow. Compare your experiences, opinions and expectations for what's next. We bet you can’t wait to find out more about Deadman and the predicament we find ourselves in with our BB.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discuss Death Stranding's Episodes 6 and 7.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - God of War: Ragnarok, Valhalla DLC Review
(00:03:08) - Death Stranding: Episode 4 & 5
(00:07:43) - Black Mirror: The Multiverse
(00:09:39) - Episode 5: Go to Mama's Place
(00:10:15) - Death Stranding: Episode 3 Review
(00:12:32) - How to Survive A Supercell Storm
(00:17:50) - How to get from South Knot to Lake Knot
(00:22:20) - chiral crystals on the floating carrier
(00:23:46) - How To Die In 'Eve'
(00:28:39) - Antimatter Bomb pickup
(00:34:50) - How to get to the weather station from the mountain
(00:39:57) - Stranger Things 2
(00:42:17) - Cut the Umbilical Cord Of The BT Baby
(00:45:57) - I Ate A Demigorgon Lion

1.5 Death Stranding Episode 3 Part 2

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Hosts Andrew and Alex wrap up Death Stranding's Episode 3: Fragile and wonder what’s to come. Fragile finally shares her side of the story after another harrowing close call and side quest deliveries take over the mind. Compare your experiences, opinions and expectations for what's next. After the finale of Episode 3, the plot only thickens with the mysterious place we end up to start off Episode 4.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discuss Death Stranding's Episodes 4 and 5.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:01) - The Gaming Backlog Book Club
(00:00:17) - Death Stranding: Remote Play in 4K
(00:01:57) - Order Fetch quests in
(00:04:10) - How to Deliver the Hourglass in '
(00:05:34) - Deliver Chiral Hourglass
(00:09:16) - How to transport a corpse in a body bag
(00:11:21) - "That's the girl he loves!"
(00:16:58) - Private Room Cutscenes
(00:18:59) - Bts on Mules
(00:22:48) - D&D: How to Complete an Episode 3
(00:27:49) - Conan O'Brien in an Otter Hat
(00:29:40) - The Sticky Gun
(00:33:28) - Higgs Undercover Delivery a Nuclear Device
(00:36:47) - How To Save The City In The Dark
(00:39:19) - Higgs The Walking Dead Ending Explained
(00:42:38) - Porter vs Firefighter in '
(00:44:37) - Porter Trophies
(00:46:31) - Floating Carrier Sledding
(00:48:22) - E3 Tips for Hyrule
(00:51:25) - D&D: Secret to Faster Stamina Recovery
(00:51:54) - Death Stranding: Episode 4 Review

1.4 Death Stranding Episode 3 Part 1

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 15:30:00 +0000

Hosts Alex and Andrew explore the land beyond Lake Knot City after crossing the crater lake while discussing their adventures so far in the first main missions of Death Stranding's Episode 3: Fragile. Compare your experiences, opinions and expectations for what's next. Everything is expected to start heating up from here. Mysteries abound in this unique sci-fi world and we can't wait to continue. Let's find out what awaits.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discuss the final third of Death Stranding's Episode 3 and where Fragile's chapter of the journey leaves us before we move on to Episodes 4 and 5.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

Chapters

(00:00:02) - Death Stranding 2
(00:00:54) - Death Stranding 2: Episode 2
(00:02:38) - Post-Order: 9 Orders For The First Half
(00:03:55) - The Last Battle of Lake Knot City
(00:04:14) - Blender 2: Fragile Explained
(00:06:43) - How to Survive On The Uca
(00:09:56) - Blazeman 2
(00:14:16) - John Wick vs
(00:17:18) - How to survive on a mule
(00:20:48) - Pizzas For Like in '
(00:24:07) - Riding a Trike in
(00:28:54) - Star Trek: The Chiral Network
(00:29:48) - The Auto-Deliver Bot
(00:32:17) - Riding a trike through the rain
(00:37:10) - How to get to her safe house in
(00:41:55) - How to get your safe house stuff out of the locker
(00:43:36) - How To Deliver cargo to Timefall in '
(00:46:59) - Death Stranding 2.3 Easter Eggs
(00:50:24) - Conan O'Brien As A Hologram
(00:51:52) - Farmstead Episode 3
(00:55:29) - Challenging the Chiral Maze
(00:55:53) - Breath of the Wild: Ending Fragile's Chapter

1.3 Death Stranding Episode 2

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 22:50:27 +0000

Join Andres and Alex as they discover more about the current stakes of the world of Death Stranding in Episode 2: Amelie. Compare your notes with their thoughts, opinions and analyses. Death Stranding only gets more unique than other video games from this point and everything in Episode 2 expands on that principle and then some. Will we learn more about what BTs are or what exactly is going on with Sam's BB? Let's find out.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discuss the first two thirds of Death Stranding's Episode 3 and what Fragile has in store for Sam Porter Bridges.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

1.2 Death Stranding Prologue & Episode 1

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 00:01:25 +0000

Alex and Andrew jump into the beginning of Death Stranding, discuss their thoughts, opinions and analyses of the Prologue and Episode 1 of the story, subtitled Porter and Bridget respectively. Death Stranding is a game that quickly sets up plenty of unique lore and introduces many key concepts and characters, but it will only accelerate from here. The intro was short but has us intrigued to learn more and theorizing plenty of ideas.

Stay tuned for next week's episode to discuss Death Stranding's Episode 2 and wherever it takes us.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

1.1 Podcast Introduction & Expectations for Death Stranding

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 22:41:00 +0000

Hosts Andrew and Alex invite users to join the "book club" style conversation group The Gaming Backlog "Book Club", where one video game from an extensive backlog will be chosen to play through as a group, with everyone advancing to a prespecified chapter breakpoint or section each week, meeting up to discuss anything and everything related to the game up until that point, and chatting about expectations for the next week's chapter. The first video game of The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" podcast is Death Stranding by Kojima Productions. Death Stranding 2 will release on June 26, 2025, so there is no better moment to pull this game out of your backlog.

Before diving into Death Stranding, the hosts introduce themselves, walk through some of their favorite video games of all time, what they're playing now and their most anticipated new game releases. Join Alex and Andrew in starting Death Stranding this week and stay tuned for next week's episode to discuss Death Stranding's opening moments.

Take part in our conversation by joining The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Discord server at https://discord.gg/9xdX3znWQn or finding it through our LinkTree link on Instagram.

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" Trailer

The Gaming Backlog "Book Club" — Sat, 31 May 2025 05:54:00 +0000

Welcome to the Gaming Backlog "Book Club," a video game podcast that gathers people to play video games together long after their release date and discuss like a traditional "book club." We select one game per season, break it up into manageable spoiler-free chunks of time with pre-defined stopping points that the average working or studying adult with plenty of other life responsibilities and hobbies can reasonably complete in a week, then play through each section while having a conversation on this podcast and in our Discord server, “book club” style, just touching on what we’ve been through and sharing tips, tricks, stories and strategies.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - The Gaming Backlog Book Club