CAGbag: Get your questions answered on CAGcast

[thorbahn3]

Dear Wombat

Why are you so tight lipped about your life? Cheapy mentions almost everything interesting he has done that week while you just sit there and talk about what you've played, what event you went to thanks to CAG or your dog when she barks. Surely some interesting stuff has happened at your job (which we don't know about) or where you live. You do live in New York City, home of crazy hobos correct?

[PawnTakesKing]

Excluding Cheapy's very first post, this means I am asking CAGbag question number ONE THOUSAND.

Reflecting on the CAGbag, what are some of your favorite CAGbag moments? Are there any questions you just get tired of hearing? Likewise, are there any questions you never get tired of answering?

EDIT: Crud. Beaten out by thorbahn!

[benjamouth]

Hey Cheapy and Wombat,

I've got a couple of questions about game difficulty and on-line playing :

1) I think games have gotten steadily easier over the years, but this kind of suits me as I don't have time to repeat sections in games over and over and am looking for a fun experience in my gaming, not a lesson in frustration.

Do you gents thinks games are getting easier and if so, is that a good thing?

2) How in the hell do people who play online get so good at games so damn fast?? I seem to get hammered on most on-line games as do most people I know, to the extent where I'll only really play online with friends. Maybe I'm just rubbish but I can't understand how these people get so good so damn fast.

Is that how you guys feel about online play, or should I just prep for pwnage and stop whining :)

Thanks Guys.

[NWgamer666]

Dear Wombat & Cheapy D

Is this the Posters Wombat was talking about having made for lost planet?

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/378/3ytq34uq0.jpg

They look pretty cool. If I saw em, I'd take a look at em instead of ignoring them like all other advertisments I see on the street.
P.S. I think I could smell through the speakers the last fart cheapy ripped at the end of the episode. After almost 60 podcasts, I need a guest farter for an episode, beause all of ya'lls has gotten stale.

[MillerTime2523]

Ok cheapy, Since Wombat's reply will sound something like "Well it dosen't matter to me, because I buy my game consoles to play games, nothing else." This one is for you.

Due to the fact that the PS3 and Wii both have web browsers, where is the 360 browser? Do you think that they will come out with one? (Really, how hard could it be?) Why hasn't Microsoft come out with this earlier?

[bjwoodruff]

hello cheapy

im a big howard stern fan and have noticed a lot of howard stern quotes and references. do you listen to the sirius show in japan, has anyone heard of howard in japan?

love the show, i listen to you guys on digg and have dugg everyone of your shows.

bj

[psuforester03]

Have you heard if the Nintendo Wii is going to have a NEW Mario Kart anytime soon? I haven't heard this discussion anywhere! Mario Kart, plus a few friends and beer equals a hell of a good time!

[Qslugs]

I have more of a suggestion for nintendo than a question. I rescently played the GBA original zelda on my DS. I also picked up castlevania and plan on playing it next.

So my suggestion to nintendo is this. Nintendo needs to rerelease some of the old games with a level editor. How awesome would it be to make your own Zelda dungeons or world screens? Better yet, what if one could place the created dungeons anywhere in the world they chose. Also tied to this idea would be the ability to download and play other peoples Zelda variants with the ability to edit othe peoples work.

So my suggestion for Nintendo is a create your own Zelda/metroid/castlevania etc VC title. I think it would be a very popular addition to their virtual console, and very fun to play and make.

[MillerTime2523]

I have more of a suggestion for nintendo than a question. I rescently played the GBA original zelda on my DS. I also picked up castlevania and plan on playing it next.

So my suggestion to nintendo is this. Nintendo needs to rerelease some of the old games with a level editor. How awesome would it be to make your own Zelda dungeons or world screens? Better yet, what if one could place the created dungeons anywhere in the world they chose. Also tied to this idea would be the ability to download and play other peoples Zelda variants with the ability to edit othe peoples work.

So my suggestion for Nintendo is a create your own Zelda/metroid/castlevania etc VC title. I think it would be a very popular addition to their virtual console, and very fun to play and make.
The CAGbag is for Questions...

[jedi_dad]

Hey Cheapy D,

Can I be your Major Nelson? You know, since Larry snubbed you. I'm pretty good with a chainsaw bayonet. I won't make fun of you if you get zero kills in ranked matches.

[katzd2007]

Good as usual keep it going guys

[MaskedPlague]

Cheapy and Wombat,

I recently find out that I am going to be getting a personalized next gen system. Yes, a little Plague is on the way. This means I probably won't be getting a Wii or PS3 to go with my 360. Do you guys think I am missing out on much?

[Mindzeye82]

Hi Cheapy and Wombat,

There have been an influx of great deals on last gen titles, but is anyone interested? Do you foresee yourselves (or others) buying any more "last-gen" games?

Lately, I've been playing Sneak King over some of the best last gen games, which are sitting, shrink wrapped, on a nearby shelf. It's great that you can now purchase the best of last gen for a very reduced price, but do you think anyone would chose the cream of last gen's crop over a next gen game?

I'm certainly choosing to inhale the cream of this gen's crap (I'm playing Sneak King and I just bought Ninety Nine Nights) over the best the PS2, GC, and Xbox have to offer.

Keep up the excellent work on the podcast!

[introvert]

Just a comment on the sound test done with the three consoles. Yes, this test was inaccurate. The problem was that he was considering peak value and not average level. The Wii probably IS the loudest machine when you look at the peak volume (i.e. the absolute loudest sound it emits). I have heard the Wii make a little mechanical drive noise while loading a disc and it's rather loud. But what this "researcher" did not consider is the fact that this sound, while loud, is very quick.

The 360, on the other hand, is slightly less loud than that click. But the sound is constant, which is why it is the noisier machine when you look at it in terms of average

The other mistakes in this "study" include the placement of the SPL meter (on the shelf with the machine, which allowed for transmission of low end frequencies through the shelf), the inconsistent position of the SPL meter in relation to the consoles tested, etc.

You were right in calling it a joke. Just figured I'd tell you why.

[pop311]

Dr Mr Cheapy, I would like to comment on the fact that you haven't, IIRC, burped, farted, or released any sort of gas on the CAGcast recently.:applause::applause:

I also have a question, In your opinion, which game is more of a system seller; Wii sports or Halo 3? IMO, I think Wii sports becasue of the curiosity of everyone about how hte new control scheme works.

PS: the name is pop3-1-1 (not "pop three eleven")

I love your's, and Wombat's, shows and can't wait for # 100

[CheapyD]

Last call for CAGcast #60!

[pop311]

Last call for CAGcast #60!Oo Oo, Pick me! Pick me!!

[bobthecat23]

hey cheapy and wombat do you think developers now sein g that ppl keep on buying sequels upon sequels qill keep realsing them as much as possible i mean look at graw and graw 2its almost not even a year that the game has been realeasd and theres already a sequel i hope developers stop this o and cheapy look at the game heavy rain it looks good watch the you tube one

[metalmat]

Love the show, been listening since episode 45


Couple questions for you guys.


As we all grow older do you find it harder to get deep into video like we all used to when we were kids? I find that I am getting shorter on time as I get older because of both other hobbies, job, girlfriend, and other random personal things. There will never be another time where FF7 captivated me for weeks, or where I had the time to beat every single thing in GTA Vice City. My gf got me an Xbox 360 for christmas, and while I enjoy it very much I am finding that it is always getting harder to find a time to sit down and play some games, or get my friends together to play gears of war. Its not like the good old days anymore where after my day of classes were done in college, me and my old buddies would get together, drink a couple beers, and play some Tekken Tag ;)

Keep up the good work, I do a whole bunch of traveling for my job throughout the week and always look forward to a new cagcast. \\:D/

[MSUnman]

Here is a crazy question out of left field from my wife. This is something you probably have to research. Do you know if in Japan when a woman is pregnent do they advise the woman to stop eating fish and seafood. My wife loves sushi, and was wondering if this was advised in japan or if it was just a United States thing. Also something i was wondering, is buying sushi in japan cheap? I heard there are more sushi restaurants than any other type of restaurant in Japan. Is buying sushi like going to McDonald's there?

PS- I would love a copy of resistence.

[Milkyman]

Ok, I've been to Japan once, and have some Japanese friends too, I wonder if you have noticed that Japanese people tend to have pretty crooked teeth. Now I was wondering if you could get a comment from Mrs. Cheapy about why that is. Do they not put as much emphasis on going to the dentist? I didn't go to the dentist often when i was growing up but when it became obvious that my baby teeth were about to be replaced with regular teeth my parents encouraged me to wiggle my teeth with my hand and loosen them so they wouldn't get in the way and cause my new teeth to come out crooked.

You should checkout Japanesepod101.com they have a free podcast which you can subscribe to through itunes or whatever and get your learn on when you're on the train.

You should checkout talkshoe.com they let you do live podcasts and take live calls from listeners so you can do a live audience cagcast! Also, I listen to gamespot's podcast and they have a phone number setup where people can call in and leave voicemail and they answer and listen to them on the podcast, maybe you guys can try that out too.

[gaelan]

Do or have either of you ever written off your gaming expenses as business expenses on you tax returns? Does Japan even have a income tax or sales tax system?

Cheapy, do you feel pressure to play more new releases now that you have a popular cagcast? Wombat obviously doesn't, but it seems like your vg spending tab is really off to a healthy start this year.

[contej85]

This one is for Wombat, since Cheapy isn't as obsessed (I mean that in a good way). This is a 2 parter. I've recently become addicted to Oblivion, and have put in about 45 hours in the last week or so. My question is, how worth it are the various expansions, such as Knights of the Nine, and even the smaller ones. I downloaded the free one and it was quite lengthy, so I could see that being worth the price, but what about the others? Worth the money?

Secondly, should I wait until I've finished up all the quest lines before I download the expansions if I choose to purchase them, or should I download them right away and just explore them as I continue the rest of the game?

[Katsu]

Cheapy and Wombat:

With so many game deals out there, do either of you run into the problem of having a backlog of cheapass games to play through? If so, at what point do you decide that a game isn't worth the price no matter how cheap it is because you know you simply would never get around to playing it?

[HOVA uk]

Question directed to Wombat..has nothing whatsoever to do with Gaming

Out of intrest what qualifcations did you get for your job..


'cause i would like to know, I am 17 currently in College
and if you could get a job that easily after leaving your job.
[I]
Sign Me Up!

Hope i get an answer [eventually]:)

[anomynous]

Cheapy and Wombat, have you ever pissed your pants? game related or otherwise.

[doc_zaius]

Ok, I've been to Japan once, and have some Japanese friends too, I wonder if you have noticed that Japanese people tend to have pretty crooked teeth. Now I was wondering if you could get a comment from Mrs. Cheapy about why that is. Do they not put as much emphasis on going to the dentist?



the short answer to this is

in Japan


crooked teeth= cute

[doc_zaius]

Dear Cheapy (and wombat),

I've been a listener to the Cagcast for quite awhile now but probably for different reasons than most of your listeners.


Like most of your listeners I am a total game freak with all the systems (except PS3, but just on principle <$600>) I even work on and off for Activision as an Animator so I really enjoy your discussions about games and gaming. I also think your personalities work very nicely together, I used to do a radio show in Berkeley for 8 years and I know how hard it can be to be amusing on-air without being cheesy (ie. Morning Zoo crap). Kudos to both you and your New York compatriot.

However one of the main reasons I listen is to hear your tales of everyday life in Japan. I'm dating a japanese national and we are moving to Japan (tokyo) in the next 6 months to spend time closer to her family. So when I hear about your exploits it's kind of like getting a preview of my future.

I'd like to ask you what you miss most living in Japan. Is it some food? Some activity? TV in English? are you able to make friends easily there? I've been to Japan twice (just short vacations) and have taken the language to an intermediate level but I don't really know what to expect living there full time.

[abhinav]

Questions: Cheapy have you used your PS3 to watch video's and whatnot? I personally feel like this feature is fantastic as people can download and transcode video's from their PC to PS3 quickly (but unfortunetly not that easily.) This is a great feature on the PSP that is often overlooked aswell.
Also, are you guys looking foreward to Mass Effect? I have noticed that this game has not been getting very much hype to the surprising fact that it looks like it could be the best game of 2007.

"Scooty Puff Jr. sucks!" - Fry, Futurama

[wageslave]

Cheapy & Wombat:

Did you ever frequent video game arcades in back in the days when they were popular, and if so, what was your favorite game? My favorite old school arcade game during my youth was Time Pilot.

[Temporaryscars]

If you were trapped in a room and had to choose between unlimited gaming or unlimited mediocre sex, which would you choose and why?

[briaooon9]

I was looking at the PS3 games release dates and I was thinking to myself (which is dangerous) besides the first party games from Sony slowly coming out...why the hell would I want to buy a PS3 version of a third party game when I have a 360 and can't quit those damn gamerscore points? Your thought's on GS points and why Sony or Nintendo has not done anything with this even though it seems pretty damn popular? It seems to add some extra life to certain games.

[AshesofWake]

I've wanted to ask this question for a while. With the new generation it seems as if PS3 and the 360 keep trying to sell their consoles based on how realistic everything is graphically, hence the whole HD era. Do you think video games will ever reach a point where the graphics will be so realistic and so advanced that companies will actually try to sell consoles on innovation? In a way the Wii and the DS have already started doing this. Their main goal isn't graphics anymore but actual gameplay. At some point the main 3 competitors will have to reach a technological max regarding graphical capabilities. I guess what my real question is, do you think MS and Sony start taking the Nintendo route with the whole innovation aspect of video games.

It just seems that you can only intice people with graphics for so long before companies will want to advance beyond the whole realism issue.

[thorbahn3]

For the 2005 Child's Play you got the Kiddies some DS MK:DS bundles. What did you get them with the $10,000?

[Outlaw]

Hey CheapyD and Wombat.

I'm Outlaw, from sunny Durban in South Africa. I started listening to the Cagcast in the latter part of last year. Starting with CagCast53, I became instantly hooked with the non-chalant and easy going banter between you guys. From then, I have never looked back.

My questions - For other guys like me who are relatively new to cheapassgamer, How did the idea of the Cagcast come about ? and How did you guys meet ?

Thanks for the awesome show, looking forward to the next CagCast :)

[HarassmentPanda]

Cheapy and Wombat,
This question isn't directly related to the CAGcast, nor is it directly targeted at the both of you. But, I wanted to address it here to see if you could maybe get a listener poll on the matter. I was wondering if it would be possible, and appealing to other CAGs, to add a sub-forum to the Video Game Deals section where users could post availability of systems and games. I just feel like the Video Games Deals section should be limited to actual deals and the "Find a Wii HERE!" and "Such and such game available NOW!" threads need to find another place to reside.

Anyway, I love the CAGcast. Keep up the great work!

[HarassmentPanda]

Dear Wombat and Cheapy,

I'm back with another question. At times you report the number of listeners you have for the CAGcast. Where does this information come from? With the CAGcast available from so many different outlets (iTunes, direct download, RSS, Google, Yahoo, MySpace, etc.), how is it possible to obtain an accurate number of listeners? Are some listeners disregarded in this count?

[AlbinoNinja]

Dear Cheapy and Wombat,

It is the age old question, what kind of game is better: one that is very fun but short, or a much longer game that becomes pretty repetitive around the end (disregard multiplayer, crazy unlockables that no one ever actually complete, and other "filler")

Also, now that the current genertaion is over, name the three cheapass games (each system) that every CAG needs

Thanks for the question, I love the show guys!

[lilboo]

This isn't an exciting question at all, but would be interesting to hear both of your views on it (and should probably take like 45 seconds to kill on the air!)

The News channel just came out on Friday, your thoughts on it?

[felixlighter]

I'm going to ask a question that I asked in the Xbox 360 forum awhile back but got little response, which makes me think I maybe the only one concerned....

I noticed that it is becoming more common for games to include experience/leveling systems for online multiplayer (R6 Vegas, Lost Planet, Battlefield 2142...). These systems allow players to gain experience points while playing online and, as the player gains experience, they level up, allowing the player to unlock new abilities, weapons, etc.

On the surface, it seems like a great idea. You get rewarded as you play the game. Not a problem as long as the reward doesn't affect gameplay. On the other hand, if the reward does affect gameplay, I see problems; the last thing an experienced player needs is another advantage over newcomers. Experienced players already know the levels, know strategies that work and have a keen grasp on the controls and weapons. These advantages alone make it difficult for a new player to jump into a game as it is. Now on top of these natural advantages, experience players will also have access to better weapons and new abilities.

It feels increasingly important to get in on the ground level with these games because catching up with the crowd later on may just be too overwhelming. This means buying the game on or around release, not something all CAGs like to do. If new players avoid multiplayer because they cannot get up to speed fast enough, I think it can hurt a games following in the long run.

What's your take on these experience/leveling systems for competitive online mulitplayer games?

[bobthecat23]

hey yall do u relly think the ps3 ios going to fail or is it just right now there arent good games and wat about the wii look at it the only games that are exclusive right now are only wario ware and wii sport well the games that really matter i can play zelda on the game cube and as wombat has stated it probably plays better on the gamecube and cheapy next time ur in the City(akihabara) can u find how much $ the vf arcade stick is the one for the ps3 thank you and keep up the good shows o and cheapy and wombat the question is for both of.

Ps what do u guys think of the heavenly star lumines download i tohught that was the best thing ever

[MillerTime2523]

Wombat, You may have answered this question in the past, but all i've heard really is "I watched football over the weekend." How big of a sports fan would you rate yourself as? (1-10). What sports do you like to watch, and what are your favorite teams?

[slime]

Guys,

One improvement I would like to see for the 360. Is some sort of jukebox system for the automatic viewing of download movies. I discovered this when I download a season of The Ventures Bros. What pain it is to have to setup each episode to watch. What do you think?

Keep up the good work.


Btw

Give me some Killzone.

[katzd2007]

When are you goign to redo the webpage design and will users be able to keep the same format if they want?

[JackFlash666]

In the promised CAG site overhaul, will new features such as personal game lists and collections be included for registered CAGs like IGN and 1up? Or will the user ability settings still go only as far as they do for the forum preferences?

[radjago]

Cheapy,

After dropping a couple grand on your plasma tv, do you ever get 1080p envy?

[Blaine]

On the topic of show length - I tend to burn my copy to CD and play it for the morning drive time (and various other times). I tend to listen to each show 2 or 3 times that way.

So I vote for keeping the show at 80 minutes or less... cause that's how big a CD is.

I'd certainly love to get a copy of Phoenix Wright. I've actually purchased 3 copies of the original (one for myself and two for my friends) and would love to get ahold of one of the ones Wombat is getting.

Love the show, though my questions don't get asked.

[Mr Unoriginal]

Cheapy, it sounds like CheapyMom listens to most of the CAGcasts, so my question is: does she ever say anything about you talking about your most recent happy ending from Mrs. Cheapy or how your mom has nothing to do all day but ship out your stuff?

[evil_twin]

Hey Cheapy,
SInce you are a big ROBOCOP collector, Do you have the new ROBOCOP graphic novel?
If not, here it (http://www.avatarpress.com/robocop/) is.

[xraytd]

Do you guys know what's the deal with the labeling on the Wii discs? They are all one color and make the games look very cheap. They remind me of the pirated games you find in Asia. I assume this is some cost cutting feature to lower disc manufacturing costs?

[elitistmusician]

Cheapy,
You definitely quoted Tombstone (Val Kilmer's version of Doc Holiday to be specific) in the latest great episode of the CAGCast. This was quite commendable, as Tombstone is the greatest western film ever made. What is your general opinion on the movie? Better than Robocop...?

On a similar topic: how come there has yet to be a truly excellent game made in a Western setting? Rockstar's Red Dead Revolver was subpar and Gun was way too easy and nothing more than mediocre.

Lastly, I am an aspiring game journalist in Alaska who has recently set up a website and podcast with a friend and colleague of mine who lives in North Carolina. The podcast is called Last Frontier Gaming (www.lastfrontiergaming.com) and is on the iTunes Music Store but we're still working some kinks out. For example, we record our podcast over Gizmo Project, a VoIP application similar to Skype but the quality is pretty weak.

So my question is: how do you guys record long-distance with such high quality?


Thanks for rocking so hard, guys. You don't have to answer the last one on the podcast if you were to choose a question from this post to answer, but I'd still really love to know how you guys record.

Seth Boyer

XBL Gamertag: AlasskaGrpwn

Co-Host of Last Frontier Gaming

[cag1000]

I noticed the Masterpiece Prime on the desk and the Quiksilver shirt...

My CAGcast question: Did you surf when you were here in NY? If you come back to visit I'll take you surfing in Jersey. I've been surfing jersey since I was 8. Manasquan inlet is an incredible break and deceptively good for our area.

[jollydwarf]

Cheapy and Wombat,

The topic of VC/XBLA prices seems to continuously come up, and with good reason. It is offensive to just about anyone listening to a CAGCast to know that Nintendo/Sega expect gamers to pay $8 for an old Genesis title that's available on compilation discs that are easily and--even at their standard MSRP--cheaply attainable. I'm not saying that every downloadable game is a ripoff, but many do seem to be overpriced.

That said, my question concerns the points themselves. If the idea is to get the gamer to not think about points as money (hence Microsoft's 100 points-to-$1.25 conversion rate), why not give consumers motivation to buy points in greater quantities, i.e. why not have points 'bulk prices'?

I realize that Microsoft and Nintendo don't want to throw potential money away, and I'm not saying that spending $100 at once on points should get you twice the points-per-dollar that spending $50 will, but to me, a small break at higher quantities would benefit the console manufacturers and game publishers in the long run. One, they would have your non-refundable money that much longer to collect interest on, and two, most gamers would get the itch to spend those extra points 'lying around' on 'borderline' content, as opposed to just buying enough to get what they absolutely need (which, of course, means you'd buy that many more points over the course of the console's lifespan).

I know iTunes doesn't give consumers breaks on buying the higher-priced prepaid cards, but then again, that's just dollar-for-dollar credit on Apple's store. Is it really a bad idea for Microsoft to get me to buy 3500 points for $40 (that's like $3.75 worth for 'free'), as opposed to having me just get 1600 for $20, only when I need them? Would I buy 7500 for $80 right now? You bet. Even limited-time, promotionally-priced 'bulk rates' would be an 'everyone wins' scenario, I think.

[mrx1]

Whats the Japanese take on Westerner food,Cheapy?I heard they put mayonnaise on pizzas.What other odd things do they put on food?

[bigtymer]

I have been listening to the ol' CAGcast for a couple weeks and I have a question for you fellas.....I recently obtained a 360 and I am amassing a decent collection of games (thanks in no small part to CAG) for it but this being my first next-gen experience I am not yet online. I am at best mediocre at most games, and I only have a couple of friends on Live. I am apprehensive about diving in and joining public games and getting destroyed only to become disinterested with online play...what is your adivce, how can I get the best online experience given my limited finger dexterity????

[bjwoodruff]

Hello cheappy and wombat, love the show, digg it every week. Do either of you watch the bonus round on gametrailers.com? if you havent the show is a pannel of industry experts that talk about the gaming buisness and where it is heading. if you havent give it a try, its very interesting.

bj

[thorbahn3]

If you could ask Miyamoto any question, what would it be?

P.S. what's your favorite kind of pie?

[ThePhenomenal©я@cK]

If you were able to give a game endless levels, then told to play that game for the rest of your life, with no pauses, no nookie-nookie (sex), and nothing to eat but bread, balogna/baloney, and Mountain Dew, what game would it be?

[Sir_Fragalot]

First off, love the show.

With the recent release of the Wii, it seems that a lot of game developers and publishers are taking the half assed approach to the Wii and that is re releasing average last generation games with Wiimote control. Do you see this as a continuing trend with the Wii within the next few years, or do you think it will die when the developers move on from the PS2 to the 360 and PS3 and there will be no reason to port games since the Wii's hardware isn't comparable to the 360 or PS3? Also why do you think some of last genenerations AAA titles like Okami for example, are not planned for getting a Wii makeover when they would be more suited for a makeover than games like Scarface?

[Milkyman]

Dear Cheapy,

I was wondering why you don't use some of that affiliate cash at play-asia to get wombat a ps3? That way you both can discuss it even if he doesn't particularly want one. I mean, considering that you guys have done so many podcasts, it would be like paying him less than 10 bucks each, and i think that might work out to about the new minimum wage or less here if you break it down by hour. Maybe you can make him smell some milk (not me) next time you're back in new york.

[crashpanda]

Do you guys record the podcast all in 1 take? How often do you end up editing or removing segments of the podcast that you feel might drag on?

BTW, I want to win Killzone.

[mik]

Cheapy, I was a little surprised to hear that you don't listen to other video game podcasts--especially since I think shows like 1UP Yours and Player One Podcast would be right up your alley. Is it because you don't want to be influenced by them, you view them as competition, or do you just not find other shows interesting? It sounds like Wombat partakes of a few, so just curious why you steer clear.

[nesfan8222]

Sorry if these questions were already asked before.

Cheapy I was wondering if you played any of the ufo catcher games in the Japanese arcades. If so, have you won anything interesting? That or are there some interesting things you have seen in them for prizes?


Cheapy and wombat, with all rehashing or straight ports of games to newer consoles i.e. the virtual console and Xbox live arcade, what’s the game that you think you have purchased the most copies of in your lifetime?

For me its probably Tetris and I was wondering what your answers might be

[callmesteam]

I loved that you speculated over improvments for XBox Live when Major Nelson announced they were looking for help from gamers. Any chance Nintendo will do the same? What changes would you like from the Wii interface? I'll say this: having to enter my gotdamned credit card information (number and address) everytime I buy more Wii points is pissing me off. The XBox has all that info tied to my gamertag, why doesn't Nintendo link that information to my friend code? Also, I'd love an option of changing, or disabling the menu music. What an annoying ass little 'tune'.

Love the show, yada yada, cliche cliche, Killzone.

[Corvin]

Cheapy, like you, I seem to have sunk many, many hours into Viva Pinata. Currently, I'm at level 106. Only two more levels to go.

Anyway, what are the chances of seeing future content for the game despite lackluster sales? Kameo wasn't a homerun either, yet they supported that long after release. I'd love to see new species, new achievements, higher leveling and such. Seems like a no brainer to me.

[liquidcross]

Two quickies, since I'm new here:

1.) What's your opinion on the Dragon Quest series moving to DS?

2.) How's living in Tokyo, if you're not completely fluent in Japanese?

If I was a winner...I'd pick Killzone.

[encendido5]

Don't know if this has been asked before, but here goes...

Do you guys think games are getting too easy? Do you think difficult games take away from the enjoyment of the game?

I think it was discussed in the forums at some point with people pretty much split in the decision. I actually prefer the "easier" games since I have to juggle work and home responsibilities. I get easily frustrated if a game makes me repeat a level multiple times just to get through it. Take Zelda:TP for example, I haven't died once or spent too much time on any one temple but am throughly enjoying it. If there's a temple like the water temple from Ocarina of Time though, I think I would become very frustrated and would stop playing it. Thoughts?

Anyway, keep up the great work and all that good stuff!

[DarkNessBear]

Hey Cheapy and Wombat, love the show!

I have a similar question for both of you. Living in such big cities what happens when your Nature side kicks in? what do you do to get in contact with Natures gifts?

Do you ever find yourself wanting to get in contact with the trees or hiking trails?
I think there some beautiful patches of nature near Tokyo, have you ever hit them up?

P.S Stop the PS3 hate YO YO!!!!!!!

...eggnog...
:hot:

[j-fever]

Wombat.

I have been a game developer for some time, and the PS3 dev was much delayed, as Sony provided early dev boxes Hardware only at first. There were no code libraries to work with. It was all guess work, developers could not get the hardware to do anything, and it was just too complex. Several developers just did NOTHING with it, as Sony seemed (very early on...!) was not taking the next gen very seriously, or was very arrogant. Even by the time the Xbox360 was on the market most developers still had nothing running on the dev systems, plus the specs were still changing up to the release date. Cheapy is correct as all early PS3 dev was only smoke and mirrors.

God of war 2 was probably started even BEFORE the first one was done, since the PS2 has a HUGE market, the PS3 is still new, GOW is a huge hit, it would be easy to the developers to release another title as all the tools and technology wouild be working already.

IMHO, in the end PS3 will still be the better console than XB360, as the Xbox360 support is so poor in Japan; however it may take much more time to mature than what the PS2 did.

I agree with Wombat's comment about Doors that DON"T BEHAVE LIKE DOORS. It drives me nuts too. I would also prefer a well laid out game levels that have consistent elements and player friendly clues or icons, as it is much more enjoyable than a "sandbox" game with invisible walls, and environmental features that are inconsistent with player expectations.

I agree with Ashesofwake(?)/Wombats comments that I too am dissapointed with the lack of gameplay innovation, so far most we have seen only higher rez textures and more polys, it seems to me that all the current and future PS3/XB360 games that have already been done before....yawn. Wii is leading the way in innovation (bravo Nintendo!), but I am concerned that the lack of processor power might limit it with some possible innovation directions.




Great show guys!

[Icy_Whatever]

Cheapy & Wombat, why dont you have a European representative?, we are a significant market for video games, although you wouldnt think so from the way we are treated, but nonetheless we are here and should be heard. Let me know if you want some help! Im a 27 year old Phd student from England and I know my stuff. Dont be a stranger catfeesh?

[evangelion11]

Hey cheapy and wombat, im a new listener From Strong Island and a veteran of the Oceanside Nathans Arcade, i've become a diehard fan since i strated listening and I have one question, In the three episodes ive heard I've heard very little about ANY RPG's, My question is, are you guys into RPG's, and if so What are Your favorite's , mines the Suikoden Series.

[purepwnage81]

Hello CheapyD & Wombat Great show! Well after playing Tons of PGR3 online there has been many times when i been ran out the road or a 10 year old kid will do the P.I.T maneuver on me TONS of times or ill almost finish a race and some little kid will brake right in front of me just for laughs My question is , Do you guys think little kids are taking over Xbox Live? iv gone through 3 X360 controllers cause of the rage the little midgets get me into.

:]]]]]....SOCOM:FTB2.... :]]]]]]

[ThePhenomenal©я@cK]

Dear Cheapy and Wombat,

As you both probably know, GTA IV, the 11th Grand Theft Auto game, is scheduled for an October 19th, 07 release. So far, all we've really received preview wise is a name, release consoles, and a logo; and that was in 2006. Me and a few of my friends we talking and we've been starting to sort of lose faith in Rockstar. Yeah, we've gotten special features for the PS3 and 360, but what about an announced storyline? Just one screenshot. Nothing! What are your views/thoughts on how the game is going so far, and do you think it'll live up to the hype?

PS: If you have issues pronouncing the last word of my username; it's Crack.



GREAT SHOW BY THE WAY!

[djpookie2000]

I have been playing video games since I was 6 years old, and that was 30 years ago. I have owned everything from the Atari 2600 to the PS2. I play games more now, that I have a Wii, than I ever did. My room mate and I have lived together for seven years and he NEVER liked playing games with me. Every now and then he would play a fighting game just to mash buttons, but he never really enjoyed it.

Wii Sports has opened up a whole new form of entertainment for us. We have played tennis, golf, and bowling almost everyday since I got my Wii back at launch. One day I walked in and he was playing Tennis against the computer. This would never have happened with the 360 or PS3. The game is so much fun to play with another person. It is like playing the sport in real life. I think if you or Wombat had a person to play with, you might appreciate what Nintendon has done. I failed to mention how much he likes Excite Truck.

They made a gamer out of someone who found gaming boring with a standard controller. The new Godfather and Tiger Woods that are coming out in March look to be promising. If oyu haven't watched the latest episode of "On The Spot" you should. Both games look like they take great advantage of the Wii remote.

My point is, you would proably play your Wii more if you had someonme to play it with. It is the best multiplayer system I have ever owned.

[Revenantae]

Question for Cheapy: We've all heard about the things you miss, living in Japan, and how hard it is to get a decent burger. What are some of the positives of living there? Are there any cool foods, products, t.v. shows or experiences that take some of the sting out of being a stranger in a strange land?

[DarkNessBear]

Hey CheapyD and Wombat!:bouncy:

I was curious did you guys feel like suffering and watch the Xplay Musical? Yes its as amazing as it sounds... G4 has been running it more times then should be allowed. Maybe you should check it out...

...Unless you enjoy your eyes...

[NinjaMajik]

This is really geared more torward Cheapy since Wombat doesn't have a psp, but have you considered downgrading your psp and updating with the new custom firmware so you can have ps1 games on your psp? Or have you pretty much lost any and all interest in the psp?

[Apossum]

Cheapy:

out of curiosity, do you ever encounter or hear about weird payola scams happening in various sects of the industry? It's understandable if you don't want to answer. I just ask because there's an interesting thread discussing an article that talks about people getting paid to troll on forums.

on a similar note, do you ever notice those people who are paid to hang out at big box stores in Japan? I hear places will do things like hire black people if they want to portray a genuinely "urban" vibe to their store. just randomly wondering if those hired faces can tell you they were paid or if they have to pretend like they are just hanging out or something.

[goukill1120]

With Valentines Day approaching and love in the air I was wondering how you met your wives, what you're gonna get them for Valentines Day, and any advice you have for picking up the ladies.

[RobertEffenHorry]

Cheapy,
In the spirit of Valentines....If Mrs Cheapy ever got tired of your cheapass gaming ways and kicked ur cheapass out for good, would u take the first plane back to Mama Cheapie or would u try to make it in Japan on your own?

[CorporalJackson]

Dear cheapy and the bat,
I have a couple of questions actually 1st...
There is lots of talk about games becoming moves (Halo) but, What about Game MAKERS making moves? well the Medal of Honor guys did and made a 1/2 decant move winning 7 best picture awards at 7 film conventions.
Whats your opinions on that.
2nd....
Have you ever made a friend through XBL (or PSOnline)?
3rd... (kinda with 2nd)
Have you ever known some one on XBL that died? I recently found out a guy I became friends with died the day after his 21st B-day (Laggyduck)
Thnx for any reply tehehe ;(

[1modernboy]

Cheapy, I’m not sure if you keep up with such trivialities, but the re-launched 2008 Scion xB was previewed last week, and it totally looks like Robocop fucked a Sherman tank (http://http://www.automobilemag.com/future_cars/2008/0604_2008_scion_xb/). But I digress. This did get me wondering, however; seeing as you’re a New Yorker (a city renowned for its robust, if smelly, mass transit system), how different is the commuter culture between NYC and Tokyo? Are the Tokyo trains cleaner, better maintained, and timelier in their arrivals/departures? Would you say that significantly fewer of your Japanese friends, associates, and acquaintances own their own cars than their American counterparts?

[Samaxt]

I just wondered one thing, and this is for Cheapy. Is there any way you can import X-Box 360 Games and play them on american X-BOX's? i want to play The new tenchu since, i love that series. of so, please TELL!!!


Wario Master Of Disguise Please

[ecmazza]

Wombat,

What the hell games are you playing right now? You said in the last episode that you have been playing some Rainbow Six:LV, but other than that, every single time Cheapy mentions a new (or somewhat new) game you say you have yet to play it.

And now you even hate XBLA?!?!? So, Wombat, how are you spending your gaming time? Or are you just gaming less now that you are a big-shot, "I wear a suit to work" type guy? (note that this is sarcastic)

As always, love the show.

[Qslugs]

I have a suggestion for Nintendo. Nintendo needs to add a hardware emulation layer for Gamecube and other backwards compatible games, to work with the wii remote.

I can imagine the wii community creating custom wii-mote templates for all the GC games, and if you didnt like them you could create your own.

Hopefully that brief explanation gets my point across.

[slime]

Cheapy and Wombat

On the last cag you said you would have as a guest a game store mgr. I don't if you guys are familar with this website but here's a website of a game store mgr up in canada. The storys he writes about are pretty funny.


http://www.actsofgord.com/index.html

I know this isn't a question ,but I thought it might go with the next cag.

P.S give me killzone

[Bazz]

Hey Wombat you don't answer in the Wombat Journal so I though I'll just ask it in here. She would also get a kick if you and Cheapy said hello to her and that her Bf (Sammy) Loves her on the Podcast her name is Erika Please do thanks it would really mean a lot to both of us(Please) Thank You. Sam.

Dear Wombat , My Gf(Hi Erika) just beat Castlevania: Portarit Of Ruin and she wants to know how far along you're in the game and which was the hardest boss for you. Also she wants to know how much time you might have wasted back tracking to get money in the game to progress further along to buy health to beat some of the harder parts in the game?

[teknomusik]

Have either of you signed up for Xbox Rewards or been accepted into the Halo 3 Beta?

I haven't been able to sign up for the rewards program yet because the site is still overloaded... :bomb:

[PlumeNoir]

This may be for next week's CAGcast (I'm a little behind today), but here is a nigh-impossible idea that is still kinda neat to think about.

Find out who you need to talk to at Microsoft or how much it would cost to get CAG avatars on Xbox Live as, say 200 point downloads. Work with WSB or any of us that would be willing to do custom avs for users so they could be sold in, say 12 packs. You could also split them up more with the various icons used on CAG (say, the Midwest CAG Division one, for example).

That way, a Cag could get their own avatar for their gamertag (obviously, as long as it is not copyrighted). That way, CAG gets more XboxLive exposure and maybe a few bucks could be sent your way, as well as to the artist.

It could also be used to promote the CAGcast, and vice versa; if someone listens to the CAGcast, but doesn't have/ doesn't want a vision cam - they have a way to get their own, cool gamertag pic.

I imagine the up-front cost to MS to have it on Live would be huge, but maybe it'd be worth it in the long run...?

BTW: Still trying to get my hands on Phoenix Wright. ;)

[davidjinfla]

Hey guy's love the show.

Couple of Questions.

In the hype section you guys neglected to mention any PSP games coming out.
There has been at least 6 PSP games rated 8 or better at IGN in the last month.

Have you given up playing or paying attention to this format?

I like most people got it and forgot about it for a long time but lately the quality of games has been pretty good do you think you could discuss if you guys think the psp has earned a second chance based on the quality software that has been released on the system lately?

Thanks

[orangecrush]

Dear Cheapy and bat-man,

Do you guys think that the price of PS1 downloads ($4.99, I believe) for the PSP will put pressure on Nintendo to drop prices for the Virtual Console?

[chris mrozek]

First I'd lke to say I love the show.
Second I'd like to ask Wombat if he's been sleeping under a rock. Isn't the PS3 coming out with a game titled...AFRICA? Which take splace in AFRICA.
Oh by the way Virtua Fighter 5 would be cool if....

[Blackout]

Cheapy,

What will it take for PS3's online to even come close to XBL?

Love the show!!:applause:

[DirtNsky86]

I've come across many websites like Kotaku, Gamers and yours(specifically in your audio #63) in regards to a statement made by Jack Tretton in the March EGM magazine, and have wildly taken his words spoken and twisted it into a kangaroo court parody. He was talking and challenging one man(the interviewer) to locate a PS3. Not to the population of the United States of America, of which some have rigorously "taken up" the aforementioned and snidely mocked his apparent ignorance.

In this event, only one individual deserves the 1,200 dollars, and that would of been the person who talked to him. Since I didn't notice anything of such, I will assume unlike all the rest in this field. He had the class to refrain.

[RedvsBlue]

With the early info that Super Smash Brothers Brawl will use the classic or gamecube controller, do you see future (especially 3rd party) developers going the lazy route and not even bothering with motion controls and using the classic controller? Furthermore, would Nintendo do anything to discourage this from happening on the Wii?

[thakingrocka]

thanks for clarifying the contest entry details.

toss me a copy of
Virtua Fighter 5
please.

oh, and if you have any ps3s around, i'll take one of those too.

[lyricist]

hey cheapy what is up with jav actresses in japan not shaving their private parts? is that a common thing in japan? do men find it attractive that their female counterparts have a macy grey hair-do down there? i really need to know since it has been bothering me for a while now, its really gross, perhaps you as an american can educate japanese women over there how to have proper hygiene. you will be the best spokesperson since you do lack hair.

p.s. your show is great tell wombat that he sounds exactly like that guy in beerfest and thats how i picture him to look like as well.

[wizardofcoz4126]

My friend and I are trying to promote a website that we have created. I was wondering whats the best way to promote it? Also, I would like to have Phoenix Wrigth 2.

[katzd2007]

Great show as always and if you could name your own console what would you name it.
Phoenix wright 2 please O please.

[tanis]

Dear CheapyD & Wombat,

Since you guys are so well respected... well ... at least by the Cheap Ass Gamers in the world... I figure you are the perfect duo to take on a case. I'd like to see if you'd be interested in investigating an interesting 'case' of sorts.

There is an active thread going on involving a 'too good to be true' deal from www.liongames.com. They are basically offering up games like Mass Effect and Bioshock for an amazing $40 each.

Now... the catch is that you have to pay $10 down on them in advance in order to pre-order. There is all sorts of back and forth going on between the 'site owner' and cheap ass gamers ready to jump on the deal.

Here's the thread:
http://cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=128165

Hoping you guys can investigate it and report your findings on an upcoming show.

Thanks!

[thorbahn3]

Has Child's Play cashed the check yet? Also, did you ever send those sound toys to those winners?

[BuffaloBeagle]

In a recent CAGcast wombat said that no games have ever taken place in Africa. Well..... thats not completely true. As far as i know there is a game for the Wii comming out this year sometime called "Wild Sarfari" i think which is like a photography game which takes place in Africa and also Trauma Center: Second Opnion for the Wii has a few levels in Africa as well. So games are starting to go into Africa as a setting, but you are right in some way i guess because there are no shooters or any highly popular game that takes place 100% in Africa.

[DeathDealer]

This is my first time asking a question and I hope it hasnt already been asked/answered but Im wondering. Are game related seizures common? like all the photo sensitive blah blah that I get a manual on or warning with every game? Is this really such a big problem? Ive never heard of it happening.

[Ahadi]

This is my first CAGbag question, and since there are 56 pages that I don't plan on sifting through, I hope this question hasn't already been asked. But Cheapy, could you do a quick history of CAG? Like how did it all get started? How long ago did you think up the idea for CAG, how long did it take to get going, etc.

[furyk]

Cheapy, have you challenged the Japanese exclusive Mega Mac, McDonalds new Double Big Mac?

[nyyanksfan20]

Wombat, what was your major in college?

[FriskyTanuki]

Game Informer (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2674228&postcount=936) released a good Top 10 wishlist of songs for Guitar Hero III in their newest issue and since you guys will finally be getting Guitar Hero II within the next couple of months, it seems like the perfect time to ask some questions about songs that you two would like to see in in the sequel:

What is your favorite band that hasn't yet appeared in a Guitar Hero game (along with the song you'd include)?
What is your favorite guilty pleasure song that you'd want to appear in GHIII?
What is your favorite song from a band that's already appeared in a Guitar Hero game that Red Octane has missed that you'd want in GHIII?
What is your favorite video game theme (Mega Man and Halo were rumors) that you'd like to be able to play?
Finally, what is your favorite movie or TV show theme song that you'd like to be able to play?

Be as serious as you'd like with your choices.

Cheapy, I've noticed lately that quite a few CAGs have been trying to enter the CAGcast contests through the CAGbag or by creating new threads in the CAGcast forums. Are you strict with the contest entries by only accepting those that are in the CAGcast discussion thread or are you a little more lenient with the rules?

[chlupe]

MrCHUPON here ("chlupe" is just shorthand). Love the show. Less of a question, more of a comment which I posted in the podcast thread but thought it might be appropriate here. I wonder what input or insight you have with regards to what I have to say below, and even if you don't read it on air perhaps this could warrant a PM response and a topic in the boards?

I wanted to point out something regarding Wombat's claim that no company is doing a good job in retaining customers:

http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3157317

Also, while I don't think Sony is necessarily doing a great job, its execs are aware of the importance of retaining consumers. All of the higher ups constantly remind the press of how important the branding - which, by logical, obvious extension, speaks to the Playstation's recognition by its *existing* customers - is to the success of its console. It's simply the execution that's lacking. Also think about the fact that the Playstation 2 has this incredibly long tail and is still sucking in customers (outselling Xbox 360? Really? http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/11/december-npd-hardware-sales-push-industry-to-new-heights/ Wow...) - potential customers that can be bred for a transition to the Playstation 3 when it finally does get cheaper... I'm very sure they're aware. These mega-corps don't hire bona-fide morons for executive positions, and whether or not they're executing properly, they're definitely aware of customer retention. (I do admit that some of the PS2 sales could be the result of replacing old broken PS2s, but then, the red ring of death might say the same thing for 360s...)

It's definitely a good point that Wombat brought up, but more credit should probably be given to these companies than is being given.

As for God of War 2 being stuck on the Playstation 2? The answer - the easy, obvious answer - is that Sony is trying to balance enticing people to the PS3 while keeping that ridiculously long tail on the PS2 and milking it for all its worth. PS3 hardware IS NOT PROFITABLE for the company currently, but Sony really had very little choice in releasing it when it did due to the huge lead Microsoft would inevitably obtain. Perhaps it made a misstep - which is my belief - in forcing gamers to adopt the Blu-Ray standard for a price they didn't want to pay, in turn causing the company's profit margin on the system to sink to the abyss. Whatever the case may be, it's in Sony's best interest to keep the Playstation 2 alive as long as possible to appease its current "poorer" customers with great games while giving the cutting edge to the early-adopters who do want it. To use a parallel that may not necessarily work, but is still telling of the strategy, video cards for PCs run up to $600 for the top model. But everyone who knows anything about PC gaming knows that the mainstream, $200 card is what pays the companies' bills. Yet, they still need to push out top-tier technology that's only meant for the highest of the high-end consumers to show the market what they're capable of.

Finally, Xbox Live Arcade games do have to be tested even though they've already been tested when they were first released. Sounds like you guys aren't familiar with the concept of emulation. You can't just dump Paperboy into an Xbox 360 and be done with it. You have to make sure that the software emulating - or "imitating" - the main arcade hardware that RAN Paperboy back in the day isn't glitchy. You have to make sure the console doesn't introduce slowdown or control problems. You have to make sure, also, that some games work alright online with as little lag as possible. So, yes, they test games twice.

Anyhow, I hope to hear your thoughts, and I can't wait for Ep. 64.

[ThePhenomenal©я@cK]

Dear Cheapy and Wombeezy,

If you had to choose one gaming genre to play for the rest of your life; what would it be?

Also; I've been thinking of purchasing an Xbox360. But I've also been wondering whether a PS3 is the way to go. Your advice on which I should get?

[Temporaryscars]

Which style of gaming do you enjoy more? Eastern or western? And what can developers from each side learn from the other?

[Samaxt]

If i could be an animal, i would be a dolphin since they know when the end of the world is.

-SAmaxT


I would like Virtua Fighter 5 Please
:)

[Samaxt]

i was wondering if there was ANY way to import japanese games and play them on the american X-Box 360's. i know where to get them and i REALLY want to play some of the games from way over yonder in cheapys neck of the woods. thanx again and the show gets me up in the morning!!! THANK YOU FOR THE GOOD TIMES.

-SaMaXt123

Virtua Fighter Five
:applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause:

[Samaxt]

This one is for Cheapy. I was wondering how you could import japanese X-Box 360 games and play them on the american X-Box's. i already know where to get them (Playasia.com for life.), but i justr need to know how to play them. i am really between a rock and a hard place, PLEASE HELP!!!
P.S. THE SHOW IS AWSOME. I LOOK FORWARD TO IT EVERY DAY
P.S. Wombat, i would be a dolphin to know when the end of the world would be.

Virtua Fighter 5:bouncy: :bouncy: :bouncy: :applause: :applause:

[NWgamer666]

Cheapy - did you go the the japanese version of this Eugene, OR fine dining establishment?

http://www.oesrestaurant.com/home.html

I used to make my dad take me there when he would visit me in college. Best steak ever. In Eugene, you ate inside real traincars indoors, perfect for a railfan afficianado like you.
Edit: Fine, I got to the end of the show.

[MysteryMan2333]

Don't you guys think it's foolish that you can't use the pics you earn from acheivements as your gamerpic on the 360? What better way to show off your dominance in your favorite game than to use the pic of the hardest acheivement from it. I remember Nintendo mentioning something like this for your Mii (e.g. beat Zelda, get Link's sword as an accessory for your Mii), but I'm not sure if that ever panned out. No clue why Microsoft insists you pay 80 points for a pic you'll use for a week and get sick of; can they really be selling that well?

[daphatty]

Cagcast #64 was the third or fourth time I've heard Cheapy say "but a patch is coming soon/within the next day or so" in regards to the online modes of the new gen games. Shouldn't you be fed up with this bullshit by now? It's clear that console developers are embracing the luxury of online distribution to be lazy with their network code.

It is time you guys become the Ralph Nader of the video game industry. Games that are released with buggy online modes should NOT be recommended by the CAGCast/CAG Foreplay. These games should be deemed "Unplayable at any price!" I'm still bitter about THQ taking for-fucking-ever to fix Saints Row, which I paid full retail price and I essentially didn't play the game after that first initial weekend.

Note: To the younger audience, Ralph Nader was a pioneer for seatbelt safety who published a book on the automotive industry's refusal to implement seat belts. Unsafe at any speed was the name of the book.

[usickenme]

When is the CAGcast changing it's name to The CheapyD and The Bitterest Gamer in the World Show?

[thorbahn3]

Back when the Genesis and the SNES were the shit back in the early 90's, you'd often see two completely different games that shared the same name and were released at the same time (Aladdin, Beavis & Butthead, Rocket Knight Adventures, etc). The reason for this is the two systems were really different on the inside and they made two versions so the advertisements would gain a bigger audience. Do think this might come back since the Wii is so different than the 360 & PS3? Or, will they go on making shitty 360 ports of the game for the Wii ?

[neonglow]

After hearing about so few Japanese girls approaching CheapyD, I want to know if CheapyD has a bald head by choice or did he start losing his hair at an early age.

[BuffaloBeagle]

Last show in ur mention of Jade Empire and how its comming to the PC and how they should re-release some old Xbox games at bargin bin prices remastered on the 360, started me thinking about Jade Empire and i dug it out and started play it again. As i was playing i tried to hit the guide button on my 360 and i realised you cant use ANY 360 features while emulating an origional xbox game, not even the guide. Well it all sorta hit me at once, and i realized how great an idea it would be to re-release remastered versions of xbox games on the 360, then not only would you be able to use the guide features such as friends list and other things to stay connected to live but they could add in achievement points also to the xbox games giving them some added extra replayability. well i could be crazy but i have one last idea. if microsoft releases the bigger harddrive for the 360 maybe they could even umm i dont know let us download origional xbox titles over live. I think thats a good idea personally but i could jsut be crazy.

[AlphakirA]

Speculate for me for a second. In your opinion, 5 years down the road, which of the 3 consoles (handhelds aside) will have won the console war? Will Sony's eventual 3rd party titles save the system? Will Wii's family friendly oriented console have what it takes? Will the 360's acheivement points be all it takes to win??

Waddya guys speculate?

[ThePhenomenal©я@cK]

Dear Cheapy and Wombizzly the Main Animal on the Rizzly,

With the success of Gears of War, do you think a sequel is a good posibility? Cliff Bleszinski the lead game designer of Gears of War has several times said that he would like to make Gears of War into a trilogy. How do you think these games would do? Can you see it as another hit, or simply a gaming "teh phail'd"?

[P dad]

Hello Cheapy D...........

I am trying to get the strategy guide for the DS import game " Wizardry Asterisk: Hiiro no Fuuin"

I see it listed on Amazon Japan... Any ideas how to get it..... Or if possible could I pay you via Paypal to buy and ship to me??????????

I know very little Japanese yet somehow have gotten about 75 percent through what I think is a very hard game. I think I have hit a wall now not knowing what main characters are telling me........

Also do you know anyone in Japan who would translate the manual for $$$ ??


Thanks in advance,
P Dad

[JoeX111]

Hey Cheapy and Wombat,

I'm a recent CAGcast convert and I have to say that I absolutely love the show. It is the only podcast I make it a point to listen to every week.

My question, and forgive me if this has come up before and I've just missed it, is why don't you show any love for PC game mods? I realize that the site is usually console focused, but game modifications are the ultimate "Cheap Ass Games," because they are absolutely free! Many people think of mods as just adding a new gun or map to a game, but there are several of them out there that are practically on par with fully released retail games.

If you want to recommend a recent one on the show, a cyberpunk multiplayer game built off of "Half-Life 2" called "Dystopia" was just released this week and can be checked out here: http://www.dystopia-game.com/

Regardless, thanks for keeping me quite entertained every week.

Geez, I sound like such a tool in this post!

[PyroGamer]

CheapyD, I'd like you to comment on racism in Japan.

Maybe express it in relation to racism in Manhattan, so we can get an idea of where you're coming from?

Not only racial japanese minorities, but also the broader "gaijin"-phobia. I heard something about "Gaijin Hanzai Files", a comic about how crime in japan is all because of foreigners of all kind. Arabs, koreans, americans, etc.

Thanks.

[JCally]

Hey Cheapy,

I just discovered the show, and like McDonalds, I'm lovin' it. I was looking through the sales charts in Game Informer this month, and 8 of the top 10 titles in Japan are for the DS. I was wondering if their popularity is as widespread as this would indicate. Do you see them all around, especially since many of the titles are adult-oriented, and is it perhaps more socially acceptable than traditional console gaming? Thanks.

[ai.neuromancer]

Hey Guys,

Just signed up for the forums, but have been listening to the show for a while and have really enjoyed it. Wanted to make a couple of points:

On the subject of why the Wii doesn't download firmware updates independently through WiiConnect 24. I think this is because of the possible risk of a faulty update bricking up the console, as has happened with the 360.

If you select to d/l a 360 update and it bricks up, it sucks. But if the Wii downloaded it for you automatically and there was a problem, it would be a PR nightmare. That's one reason anyway, but it does mean that yeah WiiConenct 24 is fairly useless.

Also, Cheapy, whenever you talk about Phoenix Wright 2 It sounds like you are calling it "And Justice for All" as opposed to just "Justice for All". What's up with that? Am I imagining it or have you been influenced by listening to Metallica?

[rywateska]

In light of recent events on CAG, I was wondering why Cheapy allowed someone else to post on the front page news feed. In the past only Cheapy has put up such posts for all to see. Could this be the start of a new system fueled by whatever the moderators want to post? Does this undermind some of the credibility of the front page?

...What's up right now seems to have an attitude that a few CAG's have commented on. Is this going to me more common in the future? I personally hope not.

[shipwreck]

In light of recent events on CAG, I was wondering why Cheapy allowed someone else to post on the front page news feed. In the past only Cheapy has put up such posts for all to see. Could this be the start of a new system fueled by whatever the moderators want to post? Does this undermind some of the credibility of the front page?

...What's up right now seems to have an attitude that a few CAG's have commented on. Is this going to me more common in the future? I personally hope not.

I've been posting stuff to the front page for months and Cheapy asked me to write that up.

[rywateska]

I've been posting stuff to the front page for months and Cheapy asked me to write that up.

Duely noted with the recent Foreplay's & GameznFlix postings. To better put my issue into words... I wonder if a common write-up of your shopping merits a front page post. Multiple stories, similar to this one, are posted with each and every big sale. I just don't see it being that much of a big deal, almost pushing the sale itself to a backseat (even if seemingly it's known everywhere).



Not to knock your writing or the time you put into making CAG a better place, shipwreck, more so a question geared towards Cheapy's ideas towards what in the future will constitue headline worthy postings and what the aim could be for CAG's outlook to expand as a site in the time to come.

[shipwreck]

Gotcha. Well, I can tell you our thought process on it. Cheapy and I were talking about the sale last night and he asked me to write something up about it. I wasn't really sure if it even needed to be on the front page at that point as it was all over the internet. In fact, we try to keep these types of sales off the front page for at least the first day so that CAGs can have first dibs at them.

But as I said, this thing was everywhere already, so Cheapy asked me to write up what my experiences had been so far with the sale and to give CAGs an idea of what they had in store for them when they headed to the stores tomorrow. I eventually agreed to do this and I didn't intend to take anything away from the deal, but instead tried to give people an accurate representation of what to expect. All the links even go directly to the deal and not to the thread I made.

I'll certainly let Cheapy answer this question as well, but I just wanted to let you know our thought process behind the post.

[RobertEffenHorry]

Wombat,

From how I'm imagining Mrs. Wombat to look like, she seems like someone who would be totally out of your league...so how the hell did your fat cheap ass achieve such a great feat? Inquiring cheapasses want to know...

[Gozer_1]

Firstly I'd like to say. I am fairly new to CAGcast and it has quickly come to be my favorite podcast. I even downloaded some old episodes to make my recent air travel more pleasant.

Secondly I'd like to say that by mostly unbiased I mean that I play all systems and can see all their weaknesses and strengths, but a game is released for multiple platforms I will buy the Nintendo version.

My current dilema is between the PSP and the DS. I have a DS a fair collection of games. My question is more asking for advice. i have noticed a selection of PSP games I'm interested in playing, but the PSP is so freakin expensive. In both of your opinions would I be better off buying a DS lite and some new games for my 250 bucks or shelling out for a PSP with 1 mediocre game and a movie. Both systems have games I am interested in and I could care less about UMD movies. Any advice or just plain opinions would be welcome and helpful

[Brainwave0]

Cheapy,

I know you want as many registered CAGs as possible. However, with so many deals being reported on other sites (SD, FT, Digg, etc.) have you ever considered banning those that leak deals?

Love the podcast! Listen to every episode!

Brainwvave0

[FriskyTanuki]

Hey CheapyD and Wombat, I've got a few interesting "what if" style questions for you guys if you'd like to take the time to speculate:

If there was one handheld gaming series that you'd love to have on a console, what would it be? How about a console series that you'd love to have on handheld? Feel free to detail what console/handheld you'd port it to with some ideas for added features to take advantage of what that console or handheld offers.

If you could take one series and create a spin-off game in any other genre? What would it be and why do you think it could work?

If you could take one franchise from a 1st party and bring it to another next-gen console, what would it be? Feel free to make choices for all three consoles.

[Kfoster1979]

Cheapy,

I know you want as many registered CAGs as possible. However, with so many deals being reported on other sites (SD, FT, Digg, etc.) have you ever considered banning those that leak deals?

Love the podcast! Listen to every episode!

Brainwvave0

I have a Follow up to this one, Do you care if Sales are "leaked" to other sites as long as CAG gets credit? Also do you guys think that this is even big deal?

From what I have seen CAG has become more mainstream and keeping big deals a secret is next to imposable on the interwebs.

[wizardofcoz4126]

Dear CheapyD and Wombat,

Is it me or does America always gets the shaft when it comes to receiving 2D fighting games. For example, games like Samurai Shodown 6 (Samurai Spirits Tenkaichi Kenkakuden in Japan), King of Fighters XI, Neo Geo Battle Coliseum, and the upcoming Hokuto No Ken ( Fist of the North Star to Americans) have all had both Japanese and even European releases but no US ones in sight. Importing is out of the question for me since I can not order anything online and to be honest, its really expensive. What are your views as to why we will probably never see these games in the US.

[liquidcross]

Here's my questions du jour:

1) Cheapy, we know you're a Railfan fanatic...but what about the Densha de GO! Shinkansen game for the Wii? Tried that out yet? If not, do you plan to, or have any other thoughts on the game?

2) On the same subject...are you a railroad aficionado in real life, or do you just like playing games that feature them?

And for the record...I caught your Flo from Alice reference right away. Guess I'm one of those two people who'd know it. Scary!

[MrDemonicAngel]

heres a suggestion.
Because of me, my girlfriend listens to cagcast now. I'm pretty sure she's not the only female who listens to cagcast, so why not cater to the female gamers/audience and have maybe a special episode of Cagcast with Mrs CheapyD and Mrs. Wombat give their reviews of games (games that the female gamers would like) i think that might help win over the female listeners and well as helping guys find games to play with their girlfriends.

[JokerCard]

This is not really a question but I just wanted to tell you that there is also a Battle Damaged ED-209 coming out.

http://www.sideshowtoy.com/behindtheshow/?page_id=2729&affiliate=1

I know you have the regular edition but this one looks awesome as well!

Hot Toys is a japanese company so it should be cheaper over there.....

They also have a Robocop 3 12" figure that costs a little more but includes a lot more.....detachable jet pack and machine gun hand...

Anyway...just telling you....keep up the great cagcasts!

[Prima]

On Cagcast 65 neither of you had an opinon on the hd-dvd vs bluray argument. I just would like to point out that as of right now bluray appears to be on top. It currently has roughly about 80 more titles than the hd-dvd. Also Hd-dvd currently doesnt support 1.3 version of hdmi. I would also like to say that sony just dropped the price of their standalone bluray player to $600(same as the ps3). I beleive this will help boost the sales of the ps3. I just wanted to throw out my opinons and i LOVE the show...

[btlcjackburton]

Cheapy

I've been listening to the Cagcast for about a year and it has become my favorite video game podcast.

My question is about your size inconviences living in Japan. My wife is about to graduate and we plan on traveling more. I'm 6'10" (also with a shaved head) and I'm wondering, if I go to Japan will it be uncomfortable for me being I am so much taller than most Japanese? Will I just be cramped the whole time or will I be able to enjoy a trip to the land of the rising son? I'm really concerned with leg room since I wear a size 16 shoe and have a 38" inseam.

Thanks in advance

BTLCJackBurton

[Yipwoop]

Hi guys,
Thanks for helping to wake me up in the morning as I drive to work. My question is, Now that we're in the age of achievements, at what point do you think a person has truly beaten a 360 game? Is it when you get to the end credits or when you've gotten all 1000 (or in the case of Crackdown, 900) points? What about different modes, like Normal and Hardcore? At what point should one be satisifed to say that, "Yes, that game has been defeated."?

[Gregory_Tea]

Take it easy Wombat! I know people must always ask about how and why Cheapy ended up in Japan. Ive only been on board with you guys since episode 55/56, so could you just recommend an earlier episode to download that might shed some light on your situations. Ill try episode 1 but maybe you can remember a certain episode in which you guys talk alot about yourselves and not so much about games.

[wolfboy68]

Hi guys,

First, i want to thank Cheapy-d for founding this site. i must have gotten about 30 games that i could never afford at regular price, if not more. I really appreciate it. And thanks to both of you for very entertaining pod-casts. i do not listen as much as i would like, as i don't have a Ipod, but i listen at work when i can. (I read on the bus, as libraries are cheaper than ipods.)

My question is kinda tough, and i doubt you will read it over the air, as it is long.
Essentially, i have nothing to look forward to in gaming. Any thoughts you would have would be helpful.

I have a PS2, and absolutely love it. I really want to like the PS3, but i simply am not going to buy one, and lose the vibration functionality i enjoy with PS1 and PS2 games. Thanks to CAG site, i have about 30 unopened PS2 games i still look forward to playing. I have about 10 PS1 games that i also look forward to playing at some point

How often would i really play those games? Well, actually, i still play a particular PS1 game, Fisherman's Bait 2, Big ol' Bass, every other wedsday. I have a friend who visits every wedsday, and this is the one game we have been playing for over 10 years. As she is not very good at games, it allows us to compete for the best fish, while still playing cooperatively, as any fish caught adds to the time limit. If we tried to play this game on the PS3, we would not know when we hooked a fish, as it gives vibration feedback. (okay, maybe we could see on screen, but the game would be much less enjoyable.)

Realistically, all my ps1 and ps2 games would be much less enjoyable. Why would i willingly lose this functionality, AND spend 600 dollars.

Worse, the statements from Sony are even more depressing, and the structure of the responses reminds me of the xbox responses to critizisems. For instance, when people complained the origianal xbox controller was too big, microsoft explained to the gamers that it actually wasnt' too big, as their focus groups told them it was fine. So the customers were wrong.

Now we have Sony's response to losing the rumble. In the last issue of EGM, Harrison said essentially It is a past technology, and if there is enough interest, a third party can make a rumble controller. Harrison said he didn't think it added much to the game. This is especially interesting, as sony previously had said they were working on incorporating vibration in a motion-sensitive controller, but it just couldn't be done. They also totally ignored Immersion Technolgies, who has figured it out, wants to license the technology, but sony just refuses. Even if they do figure it out on their own, i doubt that it could be done without trampling the existiing immersion patents.

This is really annoying, as i remember sony, when introducing the PS2, said that their focus groups had emphazised that backward compatiblity was extremely important to their customers, sony proudly made sure virtually all ps1 games played on PS2. Now sony just doesn't want to listen to their customers. (Indeed, Mr. Harrison said that european gamers are just "overreacting" to even less compatiblity.)

When a company starts justifying it's actions by blaming it's own customers, i believe it is time to leave them. I don't think Phil Harrison realizes we still have another option, which based on hardware sales, is quite compelling. Either don't buy a PS3, or just buy another PS2, which many people seem to be doing.

Myself, i have pretty much resigned myself to not picking up a PS3, and most likely waiting for a PS4, hoping they correct their error, or picking up the ps3 2.0. I pass the PS3 in bestbuy now, and still initially think to myself, "just pick it up." then the impluse is immediately overriden by the realization that i will be LOSING functionality if i spend 600 dollars, and the decision is made.

Am i wrong? is Sony wrong? I don't want to get a xbox or wii just yet, and start a whole new library. Am i going to be an old fart, insisting on playing 10 year old games?

Essentially, I am wondering how much you miss the rumble feature, and the whole issue of backward compatilibity, and if this is the real reason the PS3 is failing.

thanks for your time.

[Rendition]

Hey CheapyD, do you play your Xbox360 and PS3 on your new 42" plasma TV? Do you worry about burn-in at all if you do?

[encendido5]

Hey guys, quick question for you guys:

Why is the wii still so hard to find? On the same lines, why is the DS sold out nearly everywhere? Did Nintendo think the demand wouldn't be so high? What games are people buying these systems for?

[RobertEffenHorry]

Hey Cheapy,
Since you've finished Phoenix Wright, what is your current sittin on the crapper game of choice?

[VirgiltheChicken]

I have a fairly odd question, but bear with me. Is Mrs. Cheapy proud of her giant white man-child? I ask after viewing your segway riding video, one of the many narrated by Mrs. Cheapy. Is she ever embarrassed by your bumbling, ignorant western ways? Or is she proud that her husband towers over all in Japan (and probably has a larger penis)?

[Icy_Whatever]

Dear Cheapy and Wombat I have it on good authority that Sony is so confident that it has enough stock for the European release of the PS3 that it is supplying stores by the amount of pre orders they get and is not giving them an up front allocation with which to deal out to customers. In the U.S I have seen that the availabilty of PS3s has been perceived as a negative point indicating a lack of demand, my question is should this ultimately be seen as good thing? We all bitched about the lack of 360s at launch and the continual lack of Wiis but now people are bitching about the availabilty of PS3s, will gamers ever be happy?

[Sn0brawler]

Gentlemen, my question for you is what are your video game confessions? Is their a great game you never played , a well received console or game you hated, a poorly received game that you loved or any other video game related habit that you're ashamed of?

In my case, I'd probably have to admit to being unable to play hand held games anywhere but when I'm away from home. I've enjoyed tons of Gameboy and DS games over the years but I've never been able to convince myself to play them over readily available home consoles.

[smarkbran]

I was wondering if you guys had any info on who pulls the trigger on what games get the nod on being backwards compatible on the 360. There are some titles like castlevania: curse of darkness, and painkiller that i recently purchased that are not BC. Is this a developers decision or is microsoft putting all these shitty titles on there themselves. Please Cheapy and Wombat let me know who to be pissed at.

[level1online]

Hey guys, love the show, here's my question:

Will we ever see the return of the Angry Wombat segment???

:bomb: :bomb: :bomb: :bomb:

[squirrel007]

Hello cheapy and or wombat,

I discovered CAG by your channel on youtube. I just want to say thank you so much for all of the help this site gives me. Its such a cool place to voice your own opinion on stuff. No one cares about shit like post count, so long as you arent a spammer :roll:. So I recently started listening to the CAGcast and I love it. Great gaming discussion and im one for smartass humor or whatever you want to call it.

My actual question is,

How do you guys choose winners for the contest?

Thanks,
Harrison

[psuforester03]

Just saw a commercial for MLB 2k7 with "Breed" by Nirvana playing in the background. Nirvana is my favorite band. I was a little pissed off when I heard the song playing. I love video games, but for some reason I do not want to associate Nirvana with a video game. What is your thought of your favorite bands being sold out or selling out to video games? Who are your favorite bands?

[PatFortenbaugh]

Dear cheapy,

Do you like MMA and seeing as you live in japan, have you ever been to a Pride event? And also who's you favorite grappler?

[retail sucks]

For Cheapy &/or Wombat:
I read about the 5 new maps coming to Rainbow Six Vegas X360 @ the end of March. Killhouse and Bordertown are getting a complete face-lift, with edition of three new maps Doscala Restaurant, Marshalling Yard, & the Roof, in a player pack called "Red Edition". But I also read in a recent EGM magazine, it's 10 maps total instead.

[note]: EGM mentioned maps called: Red Lotus Casino & Neon GraveYard

Can we expect two different map packs released over time, or will all DLC be released at once? And what can we expect to pay for this?

Also, I was wondering, for the sake of conversation, what are your favorite Simpson quote(s) from the contest thread and personally?

[zakk]

Cheapy and Wombat, now that the playstation home videos have been played are you any more interested in the PS3? I know wombat hates all things non-gaming on consoles but it actually sounds a lot like what the Wii was supposed to have, except with child molestors!

[gaelan]

2 part question:

1. Is there any satisfying the Wombat?

The last Cagcast I was listening to Wombat complain as usual about pricing and XBLA and other downloadable content on all the consoles. The thing that blew me away was when you were STILL on the fence when it came to the TMNT for $5.00. I mean the price couldn't get any fucking lower. In the same sentence or just after/before you were praising that it was one of the best games of its time.


2. Who complains more your Grandparents or Wombat?

[k9homan]

Hey Cheapy, did you guys put bytesizedeals.com out of business?

[djpookie2000]

You guys should call your podcast "A little disappointed." It seems like everything you talk about doesn't meet up to your expectations. The Wii software releases are disappointing, the new PS3 Gundam and Motorstorm are disappointing, GRAW 2 is disappointing, what gives? Perhaps your expectations are too high, or maybe you are both jaded.

Cheappy, you couldn't get into Zelda because you couldn't understand any of the Japanese text. It may be the same old Zelda, but at least that franchise is good. Wombat doesn't even seem to play games anymore. All you guys do is gripe about what things "should be."

SSX Blur just came out for the Wii. It may have gotten mixed reviews for the controls, but at least it something different to play besides Wii Sports. Hell I actually like the game. VF5 was just released in the US, and I know it has a big following. The game was barely talked about on your show. If memory serves me, Crackdown failed to hold your attention too.

Maybe if someone would release an Oblivion/FPS you both would have something positive to say.

The Cag Cast is starting to become a real bore. Maybe you should both look into getting a new hobby.

[Trusty Mutsi]

Comic book question for Wombat:

I'm gonna try REALLY hard not to spoil anything with this question, even though it's in all the newspapers:

There's been a VERY BIG TRAGIC occurance that has happened at Marvel this week as a result of Civil War. And I'm not talking about Spider-Man.

It seems that when a LIFE CHANGING event happens to a comic character, it never sticks. This has always bothered me.

Hal Jordan became a villain, became the Spectre, and now he's Hal Jordan again.

Superman's died and come back.

Batman's back was broken, he quit being Batman, then got better.

Jason Todd/Robin is back.

Spider-Man's been a clone all this time. Oh wait, the fans don't like that. He's the original again.

BUCKY'S back for crying out loud.

Why can't comic creators have the balls to stick with their changes? It sucks all the impact out of these events. We all know the characters will get better/ be back.

Do you think the latest Civil War "Tragedy" will even last a year?

[Milkyman]

Comic book question for Wombat:

I'm gonna try REALLY hard not to spoil anything with this question, even though it's in all the newspapers:

There's been a VERY BIG TRAGIC occurance that has happened at Marvel this week as a result of Civil War. And I'm not talking about Spider-Man.

It seems that when a LIFE CHANGING event happens to a comic character, it never sticks. This has always bothered me.

Hal Jordan became a villain, became the Spectre, and now he's Hal Jordan again.

Superman's died and come back.

Batman's back was broken, he quit being Batman, then got better.

Jason Todd/Robin is back.

Spider-Man's been a clone all this time. Oh wait, the fans don't like that. He's the original again.

BUCKY'S back for crying out loud.

Why can't comic creators have the balls to stick with their changes? It sucks all the impact out of these events. We all know the characters will get better/ be back.

Do you think the latest Civil War "Tragedy" will even last a year?

they made that guy from alpha flight gay and gave him AIDS... i dont think they took that back.. but he was canadian so you have a point.

[Strider2K99]

Hey CheapyD and Wombat, keep up the great work on the podcast.

I was wondering CheapyD, have you ever thought about or met up with Ryan Payton of Kojima Productions? If I remember correctly, he lives in Roppongi, so if you guys haven't met up and have free time, go for it. I'm sure you'd both become fast friends. Both of you have several things in common, such as being into gaming, both foreigners living in Japan, and the both of you do podcasts.

[NWgamer666]

CheapyD and Wombaticus:

In regards to your comments about playing crackdown just because it was in the console, I echo your sentiments. I, and others as lazy as myself, seem to be afflicted with a cancer that may run rampant throughout the xbox360 community. I get home after a hard days work, plop myself into the couch, pick up a wireless controller, hit that very tactile and pleasantly centralized button to fire up the ol game machine. At this point, I am forced into a dilemma regarding the lazyness inherent in myself which forces me to remain in the reclined position: do I play a game which is already in the DVD tray, which I may not be in the mood for Vs. the alternative of getting off the couch to have to interact with the console itself in a manner that requires great exertion, such as pushing the open tray button and switching out a game disc.
This might seem trivial to many a young whipper snapper, but the lazyness I have become accustomed to with wireless starting of the console has led me to ask: would either of you purchase a Game/DVD changer peripherial for the 360 if they made one? How much would you be willing to pay for one? I'd pay $75-100 dollars. Imagine never changing discs out again, buy it, put it in once, never expend any energy again. Am I just too lazy?

[Yipwoop]

Hey guys,

What is your proudest gaming accomplishment? That moment you look back on with great pride and think, "I still can't believe I pulled that off." For me, it's beating Ninja Gaiden on the NES. It took me about 15 years to do it, but when it finally happened a couple of years ago, I yelled out an orgasmic "Yeah!" and danced around like a crazy man. Any similar experiences from you guys?

[ecmazza]

Fellas,

Have you ever cried while playing a video game before? And not because someone called and told you Mr/Mrs XXXX just died or something and you happened to be playing a video game at the time, I mean has a game ever caused you to cry?

Or more generally, what other, equally as embarrassing emotions, have video games caused you to have?

For me, I was playing RE (the original one) and had some friends come over right when I was pushing that box (you know that one box you push...oh wait that is like every video game now) where the tentacle or whatever pops out at you. I jumped so high and screamed like a little girl and my friends got to see it all...still give me a hard time about it.

[PawnTakesKing]

Cheapy, a few of your comments in the past few CAGcasts have made me curious. Over the past 4 or 5 shows, you've made comments about mediocre sex, masturbation, and wondering what you'd do if you were ever kicked out. It sounds like your marriage to Mrs. Cheapy is on the rocks. That being said, is your stint in Japan a permanent thing or do you see yourself moving back to the US for good one day? And do you own one of those creepy Japanese love pillows for the lonely nights when Mrs. Cheapy comes home late? :)

[yukine]

Cheapy, if you were to suddenly die... lets say, from an overconsumption of sausage meats. Who would you want to take over the CAG Empire? Your wife? Wombat? Or perhaps one of the mods?

It might be a good idea to get something like this in writing.

[thorbahn3]

When it comes to the current Gen games, you see some great looking games but with very little in features (motorstorm, Table Tennis, Madden, etc). What would you rather have if you could only choose one (graphics or features)?

[CaseyRyback]

Maybe if someone would release an Oblivion/FPS you both would have something positive to say.


It comes out next week.

http://www.ebgames.com/product.asp?product_id=645658

[RobertEffenHorry]

Hey Cheapy and Wombat,

How bout a game of Marry, fuck , or Kill cheap ass gamer style? (stolen from Howard Stern of course ;))

Who would you marry, Fuck, or Kill?
1)Nintendo Wii, Xbox 360, PS3?
2)Lara Croft, Princess Toadstool, Mrs Pacman?
3)Mario, Master Chief, Kratos?
4)Amazon.com, Gamestop/EB, Bestbuy?
(Thats the limit of my creativity..I'm sure you guys can come up with some better choices)

[H-Town Info]

Great Podcast. How much roughly you guys spend on a video games/accessories per month or year? Does Mrs. Cheapy or Mrs. Wombat give you some angry looks when you guys buy games/accessories over your budget?

[shipwreck]

Cheapy, did you know that the H is silent in RobertEffenHorry and that it isn't pronounced as if he puts out for money?

[katzd2007]

Hey Cheapy 2 questions,
1. Would you ever think of have guest CAGS on the show not like me but much more active users like shipwreck
2. i remember awhile back you said you were going to redisign the website are you still in the process of that?

Great show as always and speaking of sasuges have you both been to Katz's Deli in N.Y. good food there for Wombat to go to if not or if Cheapy comes back to the US any time soon

[Dingleberry]

Viva Pinata is a game that has been talked about in many of the shows with reccomendations from both of you.

You mentioned that this game has not sold well at all and maybe the reason is that it didn't have a proper demo for people to try out this niche title. It was posted on Gamespot.com that a demo has been posted http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/strategy/vivapinata/news.html?sid=6167282&om_act=convert&om_clk=newlyadded.

Do you guys think this is too little too late? or will this help it at all. Judging that Wombat hasn't played the game since two weeks since it launched, it doesn't appear that it kept his attention for very long.

[ReussDr]

Hey CheapyD,

I've gotten quite used to never paying retail price for a game (largely thanks to your site), and having recently purchased a 360, the XBox Live Arcade games seem a bit expensive to me. A good number of the games have been on Live Arcade for quite some time, and it's hard to justify spending the same number of points now as when they were originally released. No one is spending $50 now for any of the launch 360 titles, so why don't they ever drop the prices on older Arcade games to try to increase sales?

Or, why not give a 20% discount for new games during their first week of release to try to drive up sales, and get a lot of people to take the plunge rather than remain sitting on the fence.

Wombat - If the Oblivion expansion (or any other XBLA game you're on the fence about) was on sale the week of release, would you buy it rather than holding off? How many other games would you pick up that you haven't purchased yet?

-ReussDr

[Mindzeye82]

Hey Cheapy and Wombat,

Have either of you completed the 360's reward program (the one where you earn some prizes for increasing your gamer score by 1500)?

I just completed it and now I'm hesitant to play any more 360 games because I'd rather just wait until earning points will actually get me something. Have either you had this problem? I'll be playing my PS2 while I wait for your reply.

Great show! Keep up the excellent work.

[Wheeliedude]

Since you have moved to Japan, have you acquired any tastes in Japanese music?

[FriskyTanuki]

Since Wombat has bitched enough about how Insomniac should've dove into another Ratchet and Clank game for the fifth year in a row to shovel something out for launch instead of trying something new like Resistance, what are your thoughts on the EGM unveiling of Ratchet and Clank Future: Tools of Destruction for the PS3? Does this increase your need of a PS3 or do you pass on this game?

And so you don't have to do any actual work to find the corresponding info:

Thread (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=129768)
First set of pics (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2715689&postcount=1)
Second set of pics (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2727639)
Info (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2734890&postcount=110)
Trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWVm1414mhI

[thorbahn3]

Now that you a comparision how do you like your Mrs. Wombat, fuzzy or furless?

[Yipwoop]

Hi guys,

I have a cheap-ass question I'm hoping you could help me out with. So right now I have $100 worth of Best Buy gift cards. I really want to get Oblivion, but unfortunately it's still $60, and I have not yet paid full-price for a 360 game. The funny thing is that I wouldn't mind at all if somebody paid $60 for Oblivion and then gave it to me, but now that I have the choice of whether to buy now or wait for a price drop/deal, I'm not sure what to do. What do you think? Should I just use the gift cards, or should I wait until it goes on sale and be satisfied with XBox Live and my DS until then?

Thanks,
Yipwoop

[DarkNessBear]

You guys ever get Stomach Flu from eating anything nasty in your Big Cities?

[pelf21]

Since you guys dont seem to be big PSP fans, but big Oblivion fans what are your thoughts on the new Oblivion game coming out for the PSP?

I havent touched my PSP in over a year but I'm thinking of picking up this game.

[crazytalkx]

How hard is it to score weed in Japan?!11

[jgressley]

For some reason, I tend to buy multiple games at once only to find that I don't have time to play all of them. Sometimes good games don't get played more than a few minutes before something else captures my attention and they are ignored. Sometimes, I end up selling them on eBay only to buy them up and not play them again (especially when there's a great CAG Deal). Examples for me are Deus Ex: Invisible War, COD 2, and Breakdown. As a CAG, this is probably not the best use of my funds, but I wondered...

What is the most significant good game that you have purchased (maybe even multiple times) that you just haven't got around to playing?

[Temporaryscars]

Do you think games on Xbox Live Arcade will even come down in price? Why or why not.

And will you please answer this question whilst speaking in slow motion?

[Cheese]

Before the trailer comes out next week, what are your predictions for GTA4? Do you think it'll have a huge jump in format, scope and gameplay; like the jump from 1&2 to GTA3, or will we just get more of the same?

[CYRiX]

Wombat: Will the new Ratchet and Clank persuade you to buy a PS3? You've mentioned that you like the series before.

[AlphakirA]

not a question Cheapy,just figured you'd enjoy this. Apparently it's limited edition and this is the preorder for it. Ga head,go nerd it up:

http://www.sideshowtoy.com/cgi-bin/category.cgi?item=6328

[teh sledge]

I'm not one to usually comment on the podcast, but the whole "disappointment" comment kind of bothered me. You two, as well as the rest of the gaming world, have the right to be a bit disappointed with the recent game releases. You guys have mentioned Crackdown, and it's a great example. After about 8-10 hours there's not much left to do. When I compare this to my recent purchase of Viva Piñata, which is $10 less and has kept me busy for about 20 hours already, I see a problem. I also see a problem with paying another $60 for more of the same GRAW action.

Wii games have also been having problems. This isn't necessarily Nintendo's fault, the system just came out. Developers are still discovering new ways to use the Wiimote. But, this doesn't change the fact that there aren't many big, content packed games beyond Zelda. There’s also the complete lack of online play to take into consideration

I personally haven't been buying many new games at all, and have been depending on GameFly to try them out. All this complaining aside, it's the beginning of a new console generation, games are going to be mediocre. There will be a few absolutely fantastic games, but most will fall under the category of simply being "ok." The games will get better as the current gen continues, but this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t point out the flaws of the current games. I don’t see you guys as being “Jaded” I see you as doing what you should be doing. I don’t know, maybe I’m just a bitter gamer who complains too much. That’s more of a rant so I guess I should ask a question too, what game have either of you been the most disappointed with from each console so far this generation?

[SteveMcQ]

not a question Cheapy,just figured you'd enjoy this. Apparently it's limited edition and this is the preorder for it. Ga head,go nerd it up:

http://www.sideshowtoy.com/cgi-bin/category.cgi?item=6328He already has it.

[Errockk]

So Cheapy, I was on yahoo today and I saw this article titled

"Is Wii winning the console race?" http://us.i1.yimg.com/videogames.yahoo.com/ongoingfeature?eid=509116&page=0.

In it, it discusses how the wii is still being sold out everywhere and killing the sales of the 360 and Ps3. It even stays that the race might even be over already.

Of course, the war is obiviously not over (halo 3 hasn't even fucking come out yet), but in your opinion and Wobat's, do you think the 360 and PS3 can catch up? Wii is cheaper, more innovative, and has Metroid, Mario, and Pokemon still to come out. I myself am a 360 fan and am pulling for it, but I'm starting to shake in my boots :(

And also that yahoo columnist is dumb :p

[JokerCard]

Are American comic books/movies/tv shows popular in Japan?

Cause....Spiderman 3 is just around the corner...

[dmrx24]

All time listener , first time poster(on Cagbag):
1.Do you ever feel like you look forward to a game so much but when you actually get it its "meh." Im not suggesting that it is necessarily a bad game. You look forward to a game and you believe that it is the only game you'll need but once you actually get it you just start looking forward to another game and the cycle continues.
2.How do you feel about the recently announced halo 3 packages? Do you think Microsoft/Bungie is taking advantage of its loyal fans (overcharging something that probably costs very little to produce, not the actual game of course.) or do you think that more publishers should do this?
3.Do you miss the days when games used to be $50? Today more and more "deals" are being posted on $60 games that cost $50. Are people now okay with paying $50 for a title even though many were not when they were $50 in the previous generations? I am basing this question on some of your beliefs that today's generation of games are just another brick in the wall.

[Alandrafts]

Cheapy and Wombat:

Love the podcast; figured I'd chime in with a few words of encouragement (nothing videogame related, of course):

Cheapy: You're down because you're lucky to have sex twice a week? I don't know how long you've been married, but as one who walked down the aisle a few years ago, let me fill you in: Marriage doesn't mean sleeping withe one woman the rest of your life. It means sleeping with zero women the rest of your life. Oh, and wait until you have a kid. Seriously, dude: Twice a week? Count your blessings. And next time you're down because you're the only 6-foot-4 bald white man in Japan, think what the only 3-foot-4 bald white man in Japan must be feeling.

Wombat: So your wife's therapist is saying YOU should masturbate more? You must be married even longer than Cheapy. Whoops -- I was supposed to be encouraging here, wasn't I? Sorry. By the way, I'm here in NYC, so let me know if Scores reopens. I can't think of a better way to blow through $400 in 17 minutes.

[maggoty]

G'day guys,
Even people from Australia listen to you guys and have been listening for at least 10 or so months now, so keep up the good work. First time poster and have been starting to DIGG you guys as well. Cheers, heres my question.

I just have a quick thing to say about the length of video games today compared to the early days with regards to the nes and sega master system etc...

Quite a few games back then could be completed in one sitting. Games like Super Mario Brothers. People are doing speed runs of that game in 10 minutes, but everyone still thinks its a fantastic game never the less. I could clock Alex Kidd in miracle world for the SMS and Ninja Gaiden in an afternoon.

Getting to my point. When you guys talk about a new game out and say that its a 'so so game' because it only lasts 8 hours or so, I don't get it. I call myself a casual gamer if that. Like Wombat at the moment, playing a few hours or less on the weekends. 8 hours of game play can last quite a few weeks for someone like myself. Which in turn can translate into a fantastic game experience, cause the time taken to complete it isn't the deciding factor whether the experience is fun or not.

I see RPG's and what not and just can't put the time into them to get into those types of games. But games that are 5 to 15 hours a good, cause over a few weeks or whatever, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Anyway,
take it easy guys..

Maggoty :D

[DarkNessBear]

What do you all feel about the UI in games. Is it time to innovate from the classic design? With games starting to harmonize with the use of on screen injuries in replace of health bars (IE CoD2 or Gears of War), is this a good direction?

Basically, is it time for the developers to start thinking of clever ways around the traditional use of an interface?

I feel its time to make interface a thing of the past...

[Edward351]

Hi guys, long time listner, first time writer.
So I'm listening to the latest show and I'm hearing Wombat regale the audience the tale of the Christmas gift he wanted but just recently got. In his retelling he even makes it sound as if this is a hard to find item.

I was sitting in the office, finishing up some code, and all of a sudden I started laughing my ass off. People in other parts of the office started giving me strange looks and wanted to know what was so funny. It would be a long inside joke that wouldn't make any sense.

In short, I wanted a Wii or PS3 for Christmas. What did I get? Under the tree on Christmas morning was a shiny Cusinart Griddler GR-4. Don't get me wrong, it's just as Wombat describes; enabling you to make all manner of pressed/grilled food items.

However, it doesn't have a high definition disc player in it, nor does it incorporate innovative motion sensitive user controls.

Maybe next year Santa will get it right.

[msdmoney]

CheapyD,

Just started listening to the podcast this past week, been listening to the back episodes. Thanks for keeping me entertained during the workday.

Since you have now infiltrated the gaming industry, and you are headed to the scaled down E3, what is the general perception of the industry, mainly the developers and publishers, towards cheapassgamer? Do they hate us for waiting to buy their games cheap, or love us for buying more games than the average gamer?

[DarkNessBear]

CheapyD and Wombat, got a quick question...

Did you any of you see 300? If so what were your thoughts?

[zakk]

Wombat, since you're so in tune with the marketroids, this question is for you.

Do you think that games will be more likely to have settings that are amenable to in-game ads, since it presents a higher profit for the publisher?

So we'd see fewer games with elves and knights and more modern games where billboards are normal.

[squirrel007]

Has the cagcast become a biased show?! Im not talking about gaming dicussion but of the way they portray the community here (forums). While listening back I have noticed that in the cagbag the same user's questions keep popping up. Just because someone may not be very skilled in grammar doesn't necessarily mean they can't ask a question and have it be heard/answered! The people who's questions are often answered have well formatted grammar. I also noticed how when someone uses bad grammar they are often criticized for it. Recently, you guys have only been playing "cag related" 80's songs. I can't be the only one who finds this unfair...

With that put aside I can see myself listening for a while but mostly because of the combo of both of you. If one of you went MIA the world as we know it would be in jeopardy. WOMBAT you are the syrup on the waffle that is cagcast.

[thorbahn3]

While playing on Xbox Live, I've noticed that lots of ladies use "their man's" username so they can play stuff like Uno and Tetris Evolution. They say it's because only one profile is Gold so they can't use their profile which is sliver. Why doesn't Microsoft offer a "girlfriend subscription" that let's them play certain games online. For example, online play for Uno on Xbox Live would be 100 points (one member must be a Gold member on the system). That way the lady can be herself, having fun without needing to reply "this is Cheapy's wife playing Lumines" whenever a friend invite pops up.

[Technique]

While playing on Xbox Live I've noticed that lots of ladies use "their man's" username so they can play stuff like Uno and Tetris Evolution. They say it's because only one profile is Gold so they can't use their profile. Why doesn't Microsoft offer a "girlfriend subscription" that let's them play certain games online. For example, online play for Uno on Xbox Live would be 100 points (one member must be a Gold member on the system). That way the lady can be herself and all like "this Cheapy's wife playing Lumines.

...Why?

[MusicNoteLess]

Dear Cheapy,

All inquiring minds want to know, since Wombat won't spill the beans on his personal life, how did you meet Mrs. Cheapy?

And if Wombat cares to tell, how did you meet Mrs. Wombat? And why do you need to masturbate more? The world needs to know, you sonavabitch....just kidding.

[Longshot099]

1 Quick Question.... How is the CAG website upgrade coming along?

[linkpwns]

I remember Cheapy Mentioning this on the CAGCast when answering a question about the ratings system.

Do you think Take Two is right in suing Jack Thompson?
Furthermore,
What are your guys' opinions on the response of Jack Thompson to the lawsuit filed against him from Take 2? Do you think that it is Jack Thompson doing the right thing, or just becoming a nuisance himself?

By the way, the response can be seen here http://arstechnica.com/journals/thumbs.ars/2007/03/17/jack-thompson-responds-to-the-take-two-lawsuit

[Gshocker]

What do you guys think about all of the supposed exclusives being lost by (mostly) sony but also Microsoft. Some people seem really angry when and exclusive is lost but if you have say a PS3 and Devil May Cry is announced for other platforms.. can't you still be happy and play it on your PS3 or is the experiance of playing the game somhow runined by the fact that your friend with a 360 can get it as well? Or are you now conflicted since you have both and are now confused about which system to get it for. This seems to be a huge topic in many forums but for me I can only see this as an issue for the companies themselves as their systems can not get these titles as well and the publishers as they can sell to more customers now also.. Thoughts?

[retail sucks]

Cheapy,

The other night while watching TV I noticed the original Gremlins movie was on, which I hadn't seen it for some time. As a young kid when first released I remember various toys for this movie. One in particular was a small 1 inch tall Gremlin figures, usually found in those plastic $0.25 machines found at Wal-mart & other stores. You put it into the Gremlin into a large glass mason jar & filled with water. The toys after a period of time would grow the size of the jar, basically 10-15 times larger. The gremilins looked really fleshy at full size.

Do you remeber ever seeing or having any items like this? I wish they still made them possible in various sizes and characters.

[Rei no Otaku]

Cheapy,

I was wondering if you could do a segment each week on Rail Fan. I really enjoy hearing about your exploits in the crazy world of train sims. In fact, I think you should remove the Wombat's Burrow and put this segment in its place. I know it's what Wombat really wants, he's just too shy to tell you. So how about it!?

[Gshocker]

Cheapy.. Speaking of Railfan.. I was wondering if you had ever tried the train sims for the PSP. I have a few and at least one has the real time video which is really cool to be playing while on the go..

[Technique]

Wombat,

We all know your love for comics and super heroes as you have showed us throughout the CAGCast. I know you aren't a big PC gamer, but have you ever expressed any interest in City of Heroes/City of Villains for the PC? It's the MMORPG where you get to create your own super hero. It seems like this game would be right up your ally. You could make the tallest, baldest, whitest guy in the game and name him, "Super Cheapy," or you could make the first wombat themed super hero. It's you choice -- you decide...

P.S. Love the show and keep up the great work guys!

[Kaijufan]

Usually after a popular game gets released we start seeing similar games (call them inspired by the popular game, clones, rip offs, or whatever you want) coming out shortly afterwards. Are there any games that you want to see more "clones" of?

Personally I would love to see more Oblivion style games, since the only games similar games I've seen is Two Worlds and Lord of the Rings The White Council, both of which are in development. I would also love to see some Resident Evil 4 style games, since aside from RE 5, the Wii game, and the new Alone in the Dark I haven't seen much that seems to be in the same style.

[KingBroly]

With the shortages of launch units running rampant through all launches this generation, developers are complaining about how they can't make a profit on these games. This brings up an intruiging question since some games have gone to the download-only circuit.

Do you think that at the next generation of game consoles we'll only see downloadable titles at launch? I'm not talking like 5-25 gb games here, but 200-500 mb games that cost $5-$10.

This way install bases could grow and small developers could get profits early while big developers come in at the start of the new year with bigger titles and not have to worry as much about breaking even.

[FriskyTanuki]

Now that all of the "official" details about the Elite 360 have come to surface, I'm intrigued by how a three console launch season would've looked if the Elite 360 was the first 360 to come out and they didn't rush to be out first.

Let's say it's November of 2006, the Elite 360 (just 360 for this scenario), Wii, and PS3 (both 20GB and 60GB models) are all coming out in the next few weeks. Each console has it's launch lineup (adjust yearly titles for the 360 to what the PS3 has, except for sequels like GRAW 2, and push the 2006 exclusive 360 releases to being 2007 releases) as what you know it now to be and the consoles are the same prices that we know they are now ($250 Wii, $500 and $600 PS3, $480 360).

How do you guys think the next-gen market would differ from today's market as all three consoles launched at once? Would it be an overload of new consoles with the immense shortages that they had at their high prices for the consoles and games? Oblivion, GRAW would've come out at the same time for the 360 and PS3 while exclusives likes Motorstorm and F1 for the PS3 and DOA 4 for the 360 would be out early on in the lives of the PS3. Since neither system would have a large install base this early in their lives (they're probably neck-and-neck for the most part), would you see Dead Rising and some of the previously 360-exclusive games being on the PS3 at their release? Would the Wii's quick start create a sizable lead that starts to give them an insurmountable lead? Is that enough questions for you guys? :lol:

Go for any other situations that you'd see as interesting changes in history between what has really happened, but the main question for it all is "how would you see the console war taking shape if the Elite 360 was the main SKU for the 360 that MS launched with alongside the Wii and PS3 in November of 2006?"

[4nik8tor]

Vote For Sanjaya!

[BrandonMills]

Have you ever thought of adding a PC Gamer to your podcast? I feel that Cheapy D and Wombat do a fairly good job of representing the console side of gaming, but both tend to ignore the PC side of gaming.

Heck, if you need someone to do it, I'd be willing ;)

Brandon Mills
Allston, MA

[davidjinfla]

In Japan do they have the same level of fanboy-ism towards systems as they do in the US?

[GW2K]

Cheapy,
You mentioned that you got "Worms" and you've been playing it a lot. Any tips on ways to win the war?

[Jaster]

Hey guys, great job on the cagcast as usual. I really enjoy the opening classic midi file and love the feeling of nostalgia, but hate the feeling of, "Crap, what was that game again?" Would you mind mentioning which game you pulled that from at the top of the show?

[yukine]

Hey guys, great job on the cagcast as usual. I really enjoy the opening classic midi file and love the feeling of nostalgia, but hate the feeling of, "Crap, what was that game again?" Would you mind mentioning which game you pulled that from at the top of the show?

It's from Blaster Master, and Cheapy always lists any intro/outro music in the show notes: http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=132838

[Jaster]

Much Appreciated

[ecmazza]

Another great show!

Question for both of you - When discussing games recently, you both seem to mention that if the game dropped to 20-30 bucks you may get it, etc. I feel like before we (CAGs in general) talked about budget games being in the 19.99price point. I also remember everyone being up-in-arms about the then proposed 59.99 price of "next-gen" games. Have you two now accepted the "new" 59.99 price of games, thereby meaning you now consider 30 bucks for a game a deal? I miss last-gen :(

[Gshocker]

Cheapy - What could Microsoft be thinking by introducing the Elite.. a unit with a higher price tag to Japan where the system itself seems to be on life support already. Not sure the Japanese market (who do like different colors and stand in line for a new PS2 each time it is released in some new color) will pony up the extra cash on a system that most of them do not seem to want in the first place. What are you thoughts on this and the Xbox troubles in general in Japan. When I was there last it seemed like the xbox shelves were collecting dust..

[lurknomore]

The DC Metro area had a great meet-up a month back....has the grand Poobah, yes that's you CheapyD, ever thought of putting together a nationwide CAG meetup. I couldn't think of anything more fun or weird. But I think that a lot of CAG would put the effort to get to a CAG-palooza.

[speedy1961]

I'm wondering what you guys think about the current state of affairs at Circuit City.

They're laying off over 3400 employees and asking them to "reapply" in an attempt cut salaries (costs). In my mind, it appears that CC is frantically trying to stay afloat in that they seem to be copying the competition's methodologies in getting gamers / DVD collector's into their stores. Lately they've started a $20 Gift Card guarantee if they don't have a particular game in stock at a certain time on release date, customers get a $20 Gift Card. CAG'ers seems to be getting a lot of free gift cards which of course CC does NOT want to do on an ongoing basis.
And as an unintended result of the "layoff / reapply for your job at a lower salary" announcement, I'm starting to sense an undercurrent of resentment towards CC as well as people beginning to state that they'll be shopping LESS at CC or not at all.

I hate to throw this out there but could it be possible that CC might be on the same path that led them to going under (out of business) as they did once before?

I just don't know how much more time CC has before they either go under or get their ship in order.

I'm new to the CAGCasts but I'm liking what I'm hearing. Great stuff guys! :applause:

[JDUB X]

Hi CheapyD, Hi Wombat

If you could have any song in Guitar Hero 3, What would it be?

[metalmat]

Hey, why does wombat have an outrageous new york accent and cheapy D does not? Being from the south I have a hard time understanding what wombat is saying sometimes.

[speedy1961]

CHeapy, since Wombat was craving a helmet that he could wear during game play, I found this and thought of you guys..... I present the Wiihelm!

http://www.thinkgeek.com/stuff/41/wiihelm.shtml?cpg=50T

[zeek]

Hey Cheapy and Wombat


Do you think that the shortage of good games on the Wii is due to developers and publishers underestimating just how many Wii consoles were going to sell.

Now that the Wii seems to be outselling the PS3, has a fairly solid number of consoles in the market and in many parts of the world is still fairly hard to come by that maybe developers and publishers may change their strategy and place more focus on developing games for the Wii or do you see the current trend continuing?


Keep up the good work, the show is always the highlight of my train ride to work.


Zeek

[Errockk]

Hey Cheapy

Look what's on sale!

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070402/ap_en_tv/tv_knight_rider_car

Maybe thinking about buying? hehe

[hugues]

Love the show, been listening since the first. Congratulations on the upcoming #70 milestone!

I guess I could be considered a Nintendo "fan boy". I always buy the latest Nintendo console but wait on all others until they're in the clearance bin. I didn't own a PSOne until they were down to $50 new in 2003. Lately I've been stockpiling cheap PS2 games but the system hasn't crossed the $100 threshold yet. Do you think Sony is going to cut the price and continue to sell the PS2 or quietly end production like Nintendo and Microsoft did with their last consoles?

[evangelion11]

hey cheapy and wombat hows things going.
im lovin the show, keep up the good work, im a musician and an audio engineering student and wanted to know if you guys wanted your own theme song? id love to do it, for free of course.

[thorbahn3]

Do you think Wombat's new job is hurting his gig on the cagcast?
I mean, he doesn't really seem to play anything, has no time to do anything other than talk on Tuesday nights (unless his boss makes him stay) and he's coming up with some horrible business related thoughts. Wombat, do us a favor and find a part time gig.

[H.Cornerstone]

What type of characters did each of you guys have in Oblivion?

[Walt Jay]

Since Wombat is a self-confessed Oblivion-whore, I'd like to get his take on the downloadable content available on XBL.

So how about it, Wombat?

Yay or nay on the following:


Horse Armor
Knights of the Nine Quest
Mehrune's Razor Quest
Orrery Quest
Shivering Isles
Spell Tomes
Wizard's Tower
Thieves Den
Vile Lair

[Taran]

Hey Cheapy, do you or Wombat know of anyway to play Japanese 360 titles on an American 360? I'm dying to play a bunch Japan only titles (like Id@lMaster), but I'd prefer to not have to buy a whole new Japanese Xbox in order to do that!

[benjamouth]

Hey Cheapy and Wombat,

Just finished listening to CAGcast #70, excellent show, very entertaining as ever, good job.

The question I have is do you think there's too much Fanboy flaming going on in the format specific forums on CAG these days? There's been a lot of inflamatory topics posted on the 360 and PS3 forums recently and I've seen a couple get shut down by the Mods.

I kinda got caught up in it a bit but have seen the error of my ways and was glad to see the threads get shut, but do you guys think there's a place for it in the forums or not ?

Maybe we could have a general "The 360/PS3/Wii/PSP/DS is teh suxxx because........." thread.

Thanks Guys.

[The-Bavis]

Cheapy - What ever happened to your appearance on the Joystiq podcast? Lost to the ages? To be re-released decades from now in the Joystiq Podcast box set?

[iguss]

Hey guys, what is your take on videogame journalism? Can it really be considered journalism if the industry is full of NDAs and PR people dictating what information is released about a game?

[mr.Grinch98]

First off, let me say that you guys are the best thing to listen to after coming home each week after a bender at the bar. While the girlfriend thinks that I am looking up porn all buzzed up at three in the morning, I find it ironic that its you two guys that is grabbing my attention till the wee hours of the morning.

Anyway, an issue that has bugged me in these morning sessions......is there anyway that you can disclose what game the opening blip comes from every week? Every week its on the tip of the tongue, but my clouded state causes me to fail to call it 9 times out of ten.

[jer7583]

Is the demise of the Gamer Gift Card at Best Buy the last really good, reliable all the time B&M game deal? I can't think of any other alternatives, but no GGC is going to really reduce my impulse $20-30 budget purchases from now on. (perhaps a good thing for my budget overall) I'm sure other CAGs are lamenting this long running deal disappearing.

Ideally, they'll resurrect the card someday, as has happened before, but it's looking rather grim.

Further suggestion, since so many people are interested in the intro music, why not try having a game music trivia contest one week? That could be good fun, and not too easily ruined by wikipedia.

[Gregory_Tea]

Sup Cheap,

Your mom sounds hot.

Um, is this GTA going to have enjoyable cut scenes, or is rockstar still not giving 2 shits about stories and cut scenes?

http://nexgenwars.com/images/ps3_forum2.jpg (http://nexgenwars.com/)

[The-Bavis]

Cheapy - What ever happened to your appearance on the Joystiq podcast? Lost to the ages? To be re-released decades from now in the Joystiq Podcast box set?

Guess I should have waited a day to ask...

[Gozer_1]

You guys have recently mentioned a lack of interesting games coming for the Wii. You aren't playing it because the games are kinda boring. Well, being a fan boy, I first rejected the idea. However, I have come to realize that I myself haven't been playing mine either. I get games that are fun for a bit, then grow old. Then I realized that my "non-gamer" friends play the crap out of it. Every game gets played and played. Wii Sports is the most popular game amongst my friends ever, and I haven't played it in months. Could this be a sign of Nintendo's success? They are targeting "non-gamers". Cheapy, you played Wii Sports with the Family and they loved it. I think it shows the difference in target audiences between the Wii and the other 2 next gen systems. I just hope the more serious gamers don't get lost on the Wii. The potential is there.

[crzyboy88]

In one of your CAGcasts, you both mentioned how Microsoft is forcing game developers to distribute downloadable content for a price instead of just giving it away for free. Then you both said that it makes sense because they need to pay for server upkeep costs. Did you two forget about the $50 a year that Xbox Live Gold members have to pay? It just seems to me that Microsoft just wants more money. The subscription costs are more than enough to cover the costs for the servers and such.

[thorbahn3]

In one of your CAGcasts, you both mentioned how Microsoft is forcing game developers to distribute downloadable content for a price instead of just giving it away for free. Then you both said that it makes sense because they need to pay for server upkeep costs. Did you two forget about the $50 a year that Xbox Live Gold members have to pay? It just seems to me that Microsoft just wants more money. The subscription costs are more than enough to cover the costs for the servers and such.


Buying stuff off the marketplace is free, playing online isn't.

[thorbahn3]

Why are company website stores so awful? Tons of game publishers have a chance to cut out the middle man and supply their product directly to the consumer. Why don't they just give us the savings the middle man adds in order to make a profit?

[Sneak36]

Hey Cheapy, its Sneak.

I wanted to ask you your opinion on the HALO 2 Achievements on WINDOWS VISTA (PC).

http://www.achieve360points.com/game/halo2/