Romance isn’t dead!

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This week on the show, we’re here to talk about romance in video games! Specifically, how certain video games incorporate romance as a gameplay mechanic, what they do that’s right about it and the times when romance hasn’t been handled very well at all. Romance has become something that developers want to try and incorporate where possible, especially when it comes to RPG’s. Bioware is famous for it, while other developers have more traditional romances with a predetermined linear narrative. Join Cam, Elliot, Rachel and Jakob as they unpack the good and the bad when it comes to romance, including how different sexualities are represented, NPCs that like you no matter what your gender is (Playersexual) and how “love” in video games can be quite mathematical – quite different to romance in real life, or so I’m told! We also touch on what it’s like being queer and playing video games that don’t even include a same-sex relationship option, although there are of course times where that wouldn’t be relevant or even work for the main character in some stories. What games include romantic choices currently and what games will be incorporating it in future? Also, Luke has been sportier than usual to bring us his review of the hard-hitting knockout stylings of Mario Tennis Aces! Don’t miss any of the action and don’t forget to check out the first half of this podcast to keep up to date! For all the latest updates as always, head to our official website at checkpointgaming.net.

Your hosts:

Cameron Honey-Swain

Cameron knows what he loves. Witches, animated ducks and a strong burly female protagonist. When he isn't effortlessly defending Dragon Age II he is bothering either his husband or one of his many fur children.

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Elliot Attard

He/Him

Beer aficionado, PC gamer, TV show binge-watcher, music lover, and elite member of high society - Elliot possesses all of the qualities needed to project his word thoughts straight into your eye holes.

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Rachel Humphreys

Rachel (Trance) is a long time gamer full time nerd without a plan... When she's not playing on some manner of console or handheld device she can be found enjoying popculture life to its fullest.

Jakob Quilligan

Jake hails from Bendigo where his console of choice is the PS4, closely followed by the Nintendo 3DS. Anime and volunteering tend to keep him occupied, though his staffy/ rotty/ husky cross named Iris keeps him busy first and foremost.