The Ringer-Verse

There's a (silk)song in Ben's heart as he brings on Matt James to share their reactions to one of the most anticipated games of the past several years: 'Hollow Knight: Silksong.' In a largely spoiler-free discussion after roughly 60 combined hours spent exploring the land of Pharloom, they consider what made 'Hollow Knight' and its sequel such sensations, how the hype for 'Silksong' grew, how the new game retains and tweaks the original's formula, whether 'Silksong' is too hard, and whether it lives up to unrestrained expectations. Intro (0:00)'Hollow Knight: Silksong' Reactions (3:00)Outro (1:13:04) Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Matt JamesProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steve and Jomi return for a long-awaited comics catch-up! They dive into ‘Spider-Man ’94’ and share what makes new releases like ‘Exquisite Corpses' and ‘Superman: The Kryptonite Spectrum’ stand out. The duo also revisit ‘Absolute Batman’ and other must-reads before closing with their reactions to Amazon’s announcement of a ‘Life Is Strange’ adaptation.Intro (0:00)‘Spider-Man ’94’ + Comic Book Roundup (6:49)‘Life Is Strange‘ Adaptation Reactions (54:54)Outro (1:00:45)Hosts: Jomi Adeniran and Steve AhlmanProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The boys are back to give you the long-awaited Mantle Wars! But first, they talk about the latest Nerd News in the James Gunn universe, and ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2 Episode 3. (0:00) Intro (7:55) Nerd News: James Gunn (30:26) Reactions to ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2 Episode 3 (47:26) Mantle Wars (2:13:08) Outro (2:14:09) Post Credits Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Chris Thomas, Jade Whaley, and Aleya Zenieris Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a brief break, 'Recommends' returns with a revamped format, featuring a conversation between Ben and a guest about one of the month's recommendations! This time, Ben brings on Rany Jazayerli for a spoiler-free focus on sci-fi streaming series 'Foundation,' with an emphasis on the series' strengths, adaptation decisions, latest season, and future. After that, other Ringer-Verse hosts, friends, and listeners salute unsung nerd culture content to complete this expanded installment of the monthly roundup of fandom favorites from TV, anime, movies, video games, books, comics, and beyond that were released recently but not yet covered in-depth on a full-length episode. (04:35) Foundation Talk (38:21) Weapons (41:35) The Rogue Prince of Persia (42:32) Ruri Rocks (43:12) Dan Da Dan Season 2 (44:08) Herdling (46:11) Listener Recommends with Ben Host: Ben Lindbergh Guests: Rany Jazayerli, Jomi Adeniran, Steve Ahlman, Charles Holmes, and Daniel Chin Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman Social: Jomi Adeniran Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben places a codec call to Steve Ahlman and Matt James to review the new remake of 'Metal Gear Solid 3.' First, they discuss a deluge of upcoming sequels (including 'Hollow Knight: Silksong') and react to the latest indication that the console wars are over, hardware price hikes, and comebacks by two venerable ninja-centric series. Then they discuss how 'MGS3' holds up, how the remake alters the original, and the post-Kojima future of the franchise, before recommending indie gem 'Sword of the Sea.' Finally, Ben has a (mostly spoiler-free) chat with 'Twisted Metal' showrunner/writer Michael Jonathan Smith about how he conceived of the first two seasons, depicting the titular tournament in a bigger-budget Season 2, drawing on 'Twisted Metal' lore, the show's cast and comedic tone, and his vision for a third season. Intro (0:00)'Metal Gear Solid 3.' Review (23:00)Interview with Michael Jonathan Smith (1:09:13)Outro (1:41:14) Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Steve Ahlman, Matt James and Michael Jonathan SmithProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The boys are back to talk about the newest episodes of ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2 and ‘Alien: Earth’! They dive into what James Gunn’s weaknesses in ‘Peacemaker’ could be and the many questions ‘Alien: Earth' is asking its audience. Plus, they somehow end up discussing Scrappy vs. Scooby Doo. (0:00) Intro (11:32) Spoilers ahead (13:03) Reactions to ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2, Episode 2 (38:30) ‘Alien: Earth’ midseason check-in (1:19:11) Outro Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Olivia Crerie Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The boys are back to talk about the ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2 premiere! They discuss John Cena’s acting prowess, what ‘Peacemaker’ means for the James Gunn DC universe, and the plans for the new Justice League. (0:00) Intro (14:35) Spoilers ahead (16:17) Reactions to the ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2 premiere (1:27:20) Outro Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Chris Thomas, Jade Whaley, and Aleya Zenieris Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steve and Jomi team up with K-pop stan Jess Clemons to dive into Netflix’s ‘K-pop: Demon Hunters.’ They discuss the film’s explosive popularity, its chart-topping soundtrack, and wrap up by ranking their personal favorite tracks. Intro (0:00)'K-Pop: Demon Hunters' Deep Dive (5:36)Top Tracks Ranked! (52:58)Outro (1:11:42) Hosts: Jomi Adeniran and Steve AhlmanGuest: Jess ClemonsProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben recruits game journalists (and ex-coworkers) Chris Plante, Maddy Myers, and Joshua Rivera to draft the greatest games featuring Mario, in honor of the upcoming 40th anniversary of 'Super Mario Bros.' First, they share their origin stories as Mario gamers, discuss what makes the character so versatile, and speculate on what Nintendo might announce for the franchise's big birthday. Then they select the all-time greatest (and weirdest!) Mario-centric releases across several genres.Intro (0:00)'Super Mario Bros.' 40th anniversary draft (24:55)Outro (1:47:20)Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Chris Plante, Maddy Myers, and Joshua RiveraProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boys are back to give you all of their thoughts on FX’s new show: ‘Alien: Earth.’ They then dive into an alien draft, picking their favorite depictions of aliens in media from five categories: human-presenting alien, good alien, bad alien, animated alien, and wild card. (0:00) Intro (10:43) Spoilers ahead (13:10) Reactions to ‘Alien: Earth’ (1:01:42) Alien draft (1:36:20) Alien wars Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben Lindbergh, Steve Ahlman, Matt James, Rob Mahoney, and Daniel Chin press F to pay respects to the finest video games of the 2000s (so far), making five picks per person in a knock-down, drag-out draft of 25 stone-cold classics. Intro (0:00)25 Greatest Games of the Quarter Century Draft (11:00)Outro (1:43:23) Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Steve Ahlman, Matt James, Rob Mahoney, and Daniel ChinProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Midnight Boys are back with a big ol' pod for you after all the Comic-Con madness. They talk about the latest happenings from the set of 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' and how the excitement is more than palpable for the latest web-slinging adventure. Then, they talk about the box office drop-off from 'Fantastic Four' and whether the casual Marvel viewer is no longer interested. Later, they dive into James Gunn dancing on the grave of Marvel's box office, as well as how Marvel can hope to get the X-Men right. (0:00) Intro (8:54) Nerd News: Spider-Man 4 (33:54) Nerd News: ‘Fantastic Four’ (1:12:17) Nerd News: James Gunn (2:03:33) Outro Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fresh from San Diego Comic-Con, Steve and Jomi return to break down everything you missed at the convention. They dive into Marvel's latest animated series, 'Eyes of Wakanda,' exploring its storytelling, themes, and what it means for the future of Marvel animation. Plus, they preview what's coming next in the animated universe and tease a special Ringer event you won’t want to miss. Don't miss the Midnight Boys presenting 'Blade' at the Los Feliz 3 on August 25!Get your tickets here: The Midnight Boys Present Blade – 8.25.25 Intro (0:00) ‘Eyes of Wakanda’ Reactions (4:43) Marvel Animation Preview (38:52) Outro (53:10) Hosts: Jomi Adeniran and Steve AhlmanProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Midnight Boys are back and recording from San Diego to give you all of the news and reactions from the floor of San Diego Comic-Con. They discuss all of the major panels from Hall H, including 'Project Hail Mary', 'Alien: Earth,' 'Tron: Ares,' and so much more. They also talk about the Ringer-Verse panel and getting to meet all of you at the meet and greet. (1:32) Project Hail Mary (4:12) Alien: Earth (7:10) Tron: Ares (8:41) Predator: Badlands (11:55) Peacemaker (20:03) Charles’ Weeb Weekend Corner (24:20) Coyote vs. Acme (27:00) Star Trek (27:53) Gen V (29:07) The Ringer-Verse Panel Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell San Diego Comic Convention (SDCC) owns the SDCC trademarks used in this episode and are used under license. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Ringer-Verse takes stock of IP in 2025 live at San Diego Comic-Con. In a busy year, what's been the best and worst in IP so far? San Diego Comic Convention (SDCC) owns the SDCC trademarks used in this episode and are used under license. Hosts: Joanna Robinson, Mallory Rubin, Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Eduardo Ocampo and Aleya Zenieris Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boys are back to give you all of their thoughts on one of the most highly anticipated films of the year: ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps.’ They talk about the newest portrayal of the beloved Fantastic Four characters, give you a bit of comic book context, and dive into questions they had after seeing the film. (0:00) Intro (11:27) Spoilers ahead (13:45) Instant reactions to ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ (48:00) Jomi the Explainer Corner (58:05) The villains (1:13:08) Questions about the movie (1:27:02) Doctor Doom and the post-credits (1:35:55) Box office (1:41:11) Midnight Meter (1:43:00) Inaugural movie rankings for the MCU (1:47:30) 'Superman' vs. 'Fantastic Four' (1:49:39) Outro (1:51:27) Post-credits Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben Lindbergh and Jessica Clemons begin with a roundup of game adaptation news, covering the ‘Mortal Kombat II’ trailer, Netflix’s live-action ‘Assassin’s Creed’ series, the ‘Legend of Zelda’ casting announcements, and an apparent animated ‘Donkey Kong’ movie. Then they dive deep (both in game and on mic) into new Nintendo masterpiece ‘Donkey Kong Bananza,’ touching on the history of the Donkey Kong character, the lineage of Nintendo 3D platformers, what makes the latest game great, why the Switch 2 sorely needed it, and what’s next for Nintendo and its new, hot-selling system. Intro (0:00)Game adaptation news: 'MKII,' 'Zelda,' 'Assassin’s Creed' (3:30)'Donkey Kong Bananza' reviews (28:34)Outro (1:31:15) Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Jess ClemonsProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Junior Mints, lock in—Comic-Con season is here! Steve and Jomi are back with a special San Diego Comic-Con preview, breaking down everything you need to know before the convention kicks off. From 'Tron' to 'Alien: Earth' to 'Peacemaker' to 'Coyote vs. Acme,' they cover what to expect and what they're most excited about. Plus, get a sneak peek at the Ringer-Verse panel and much more. Intro (0:00)Comic-Con preview (6:00)The Ringer-Verse panel (51:32)Outro (54:20) Hosts: Jomi Adeniran and Steve AhlmanProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The boys are back and they’re here to give you more ‘Superman’ takes but this time, they’re live! The Midnight Riders have questions, and we’re here to answer them! Don’t forget, The Ringer-Verse is going to Comic-Con! We'll be hosting our very own panel at 6 p.m. PT on Thursday, July 24, at Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina for all badge holders. We’ll also be holding a meet and greet at Whiskey Girl in the Gaslamp Quarter at 8:30 pm! Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben Lindbergh and Van Lathan huddle up to discuss ‘EA Sports College Football 26,’ the sequel to last year’s bestselling comeback for the ‘College Football’ franchise, focusing on the depths of Van’s obsession, the series’ transition to an annual release schedule, and whether college basketball games will be the next to return. Then, Ben, Van, and Devon Renaldo discuss ‘Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4,’ the best ‘THPS’ games, and gaming as a gateway to skating (32:50). Finally, Ben catches some air with the titular Tony Hawk, the skating/gaming legend, who weighs in on his ‘THPS’ history and the future of the franchise (62:03). Intro (00:00) ‘EA Sports College Football 26’ (09:30) College basketball games (24:28) ‘Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4’ with Dev and Van (32:50) Interview with Tony Hawk (62:03) Host: Ben Lindbergh Guests: Tony Hawk and Van Lathan Producer: Devon Renaldo Additional Production Supervision: Arjuna Ramgopal and Olivia Crerie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Look up in the sky! The Midnight Boys are here to give their reactions to the long-awaited James Gunn–directed ‘Superman.’ They break down what they loved about the film from Lex Luthor, Krypto, and more. They also speak on how they think this entry can mark the beginning of a new DC Cinematic Universe informed by Gunn’s vision. Will the superhero genre be saved by the Man of Steel? The Midnight Boys are here to find out. Also, The Ringer-Verse is going to Comic-Con! We'll be hosting our very own panel at 6 p.m. PT on Thursday, July 24, at Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina for all badge holders. (0:00) Intro (4:44) Comic-Con Announcement! (9:04) Spoilers ahead (11:49) Instant reactions to ‘Superman’ (1:52:18) Midnight Meter (2:03:33) Outro (2:04:12) Post credits Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boys are back in court to debate the two hottest films of the nerd universe in 2025: ‘Superman’ vs. ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps.’ Here to decide which legal team gave the best argument is the honorable judge Sean Fennessey. (0:00) Intro (2:26) Opening Statements (8:45) Cross-Examination (44:45) Closing Statements (49:03) Verdict Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Guest: Sean Fennessey Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boys are back to give you their reactions to 'Jurassic World: Rebirth', plus their thoughts on the 'Ironheart' season finale. They even sneak in a little bit of fresh Nerd News as well! (0:00) Intro (10:19) Spoilers ahead (11:51) Instant reactions to ‘Jurassic World: Rebirth’ (50:37) 'Jurassic World' Midnight Meter (1:08:15) Instant reactions to 'Ironheart' Finale (2:15:23) ‘Ironheart’ Midnight Meter (2:16:31) Nerd News (2:21:06) Outro (2:22:50) Post credits Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jomi and Steve are joined by Daniel Chin and Matthew James for their Summer Franchise “Retooling” Draft! With DC, the MCU, and ‘Jurassic World’ all looking to put their pasts behind them with new films this month, they’ll be taking a look back at the movies that caused these franchises to retool. They’ll each draft one movie from each franchise’s most recent era and one wild card! (00:00) Intro(05:00) Rules(08:24) Round 1(19:15) Round 2(32:23) Round 3(45:12) Round 4(01:03:24) Honorable mentions(01:08:31) Recap Hosts: Jomi Adeniran and Steve AhlmanGuests: Daniel Chin and Matthew JamesProducer: Carlos ChiribogaAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Was June slow? Not so! Let Ringer-Verse Recommends tell you what to know. Sit back and enjoy the show. Join your favorite Ringer-Verse and House of R hosts as they salute unsung nerd culture content in the latest installment of the monthly mini-pod about fandom favorites from TV, anime, movies, video games, books, comics, and beyond that were released recently but not yet covered in-depth on a full-length episode. Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Jomi Adeniran, Steve Ahlman, Arjuna Ramgopal, Charles Holmes, Joanna Robinson, Van Lathan, and Mallory RubinSenior Producer: Steve AhlmanSocial: Jomi Adeniran Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Justin Charity have a spoiler-free discussion about Hideo Kojima's acclaimed PlayStation 5 sequel to 2019's 'Death Stranding,' 'Death Standing 2: On the Beach.' Then, after their brief reaction to casting news about the upcoming 'Street Fighter' film, Matt James joins to reflect on the year in gaming. The two construct joint top-10 lists of his and Ben's favorite games of the year so far, as well as their most anticipated games for the rest of 2025. Intro (0:00)‘Death Stranding 2: On the Beach’ Spoiler-Free Impressions (3:53)Reactions to ‘Street Fighter’ Casting News (46:22)Game of the Year So Far + 2025 Hype List (56:05)Outro (1:43:22) Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Justin Charity and Matt JamesProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Midnight Boys suit up to take on the newest Disney+ show, 'Ironheart,' reacting to the big three-episode premiere and diving into how they think the character of Riri Williams is served in this opening. Later, they take a look at the final trailer for 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' and debate how strong Johnny can be and how handsome Pedro Pascal really is. (0:00) Intro (6:42) Spoilers ahead (8:35) Instant reactions to 'Ironheart' Episodes 1-3 (1:17:45) Instant reactions to the final 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' trailer (1:49:23) Outro (1:51:34) Post credits Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The boys are back to answer your call-in questions for all things coming up in the summer of content! They discuss James Gunn, Superman, the new Batman, and much more! They also answer questions like "Is Marvel hiding 'Ironheart'?" and "What are your favorite movies, games, and comics?" Intro (0:00) Spoilers Ahead (11:02) Nerd News (11:35) Mail Bag (24:06) Outro (2:00:13) Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Steve Ahlman Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Mint Boys are back, and this time they’re joined by the amazing Jessica Clemons to dive into the 'How to Train Your Dragon' live-action remake! From stunning visuals to emotional beats, they break down what worked, what didn’t, and what this means for the future of live-action adaptations. Heads up: Full spoilers ahead for the remake—skip ahead if you haven’t taken flight yet. They also discuss the exciting 'Predator: Killer of Killers' and what makes the 'Predator' films and lore so enjoyable after all these years. Intro (0:00)Reactions to 'How to Train Your Dragon' (5:15)'Predator: Killer of Killers' deep dive (36:15)Outro (1:2:00) Hosts: Jomi Adeniran and Steve AhlmanGuest: Jessica Clemons Producer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boys are back to react to the newest release in the 'John Wick' series, ‘Ballerina.’ They then dive into the latest nerd news, the final trailer for the highly anticipated ‘Superman.’ (0:00) Intro (6:31) Spoilers ahead (8:35) Instant reactions to 'Ballerina' (1:25:19) Midnight Meter (1:29:43) Nerd News Minute: new 'Superman' trailer (1:37:59) Outro (1:39:30) Post Credits Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Steve Ahlman Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Matt put down their Pro Controllers long enough to react to a landmark weekend in gaming. First, they discuss the launch of Nintendo’s Switch 2, their at-home experiences with the system, and whether it's worth getting now. Then they share their thoughts on ‘Mario Kart World’—as a sequel to one of the bestselling games of all time, as a reinvention of the franchise, and as a Switch 2 launch title and system seller. Then they break down the top trends and announcements from gaming’s summer showcase season, including PlayStation’s State of Play, Summer Game Fest, the Xbox Games Showcase, and more. Intro (0:00)Reactions to the Switch 2 (2:23)First thoughts on ‘Mario Kart World’ (34:15)Highlights from summer showcase season (55:08)Outro (1:23:37) Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Matt JamesProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boys are back to draft the most racist characters in film history, featuring five categories: action, comedy, Oscar, Tarantino, and wild card. (0:00) Intro (16:45) The draft (1:42:53) Outro Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris, Jonathan Kermah, and Steve Ahlman Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben, Matt, and Steve party up for a three-person podcast about a three-player game! First, they discuss what the cancellation of Electronic Arts' Black Panther project portends for the future of superhero games and Triple-A licensed games. Then they have a spoiler-free discussion of FromSoftware's fascinating 'Elden Ring' spinoff experiment, 'Nightreign,' focusing on its difficulty, its genre-spanning appeal, and its technological drawbacks. After that, they react to the news that Alex Garland is writing and directing an A24-produced 'Elden Ring' movie and try to figure out what the adaptation could look like, before honoring 'Mission: Impossible' by identifying other major media properties that historically have been the most underserved by video games. Intro (0:00)Black Panther + Game Cancellations (2:40)Reactions to 'Elden Ring Nightreign' (11:13) 'Elden Ring' Movie Predictions Most Underserved Franchises in Video Games (56:46)Outro (1:16:48) Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Steve Ahlman and Matt JamesProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's been a busy month in nerd culture—so stacked, in fact, that some quality releases could have slipped through the cracks were it not for Ringer-Verse Recommends! Join your favorite Ringer-Verse and House of R hosts and friends as they gush about geek content in the latest installment of the monthly mini-pod about fandom favorites from TV, anime, movies, video games, books, comics, and beyond that were released recently but not yet covered in-depth on a full-length episode. (And yes, Ben's amateur trailers return.) Host: Ben Lindbergh Guests: Jomi Adeniran, Matt James, Steve Ahlman, Miles Surrey, Arjuna Ramgopal, Charles Holmes, Joanna Robinson, Van Lathan, and Jonathan Kermah Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman Social: Jomi Adeniran Additional Production: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer-Verse listeners let Ben and Daniel live, and they don't waste it! First, they give their reviews of Season 2, Episode 7, "Convergence," and then they break down the episode's departures from and additions to the game before assessing the season as a whole. Then they forecast when to expect Season 3 and what it could look like, and they conclude by answering audience emails. Intro (0:00)Reactions to Episode 7 (3:50)Season 3 Predictions (1:10:00)Audience Emails (1:28:13) Outro (1:40:50) Hosts: Ben Lindbergh and Daniel ChinProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

'Mission: Impossible—The Final Reckoning' Reactions | The Midnight Boys The Boys are back and they’re diving into their thoughts on the final (?) installment of the franchise: ‘Mission: Impossible—The Final Reckoning.’ (0:00) Intro (10:00) Spoilers Ahead (11:56) Instant Reactions to 'Mission: Impossible—The Final Reckoning' (35:13) Criticisms of 'Mission: Impossible' (1:05:51) Midnight Meter (1:08:36) 'Mission: Impossible' Rankings (1:17:39) Outro (1:18:52) Post Credits Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Steve Ahlman Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Midnight Boys are back to give all of their hot takes on and instant reactions to the season finale of 'The Last of Us.' They take a look at where Ellie's revenge tour leads and discuss what they can look forward to in Season 3. Later, they also react to the news of a delay to 'Avengers: Doomsday' that could clash with 'Dune,' and they talk about whether things are all right in the house of Marvel. (00:00) Intro (04:28) 'The Last of Us' reactions (01:12:27) 'Doomsday' delay Hosts: Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, Steve Ahlman, and Van Lathan Social: Jomi Adeniran Producers: Steve Ahlman, Jon Jones, Jonathan Kermah, and Jomi Adeniran Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jomi and Steve jump into the world of ‘Murderbot’ with instant reactions to the first three episodes! Later, the guys look at the news of Avatar, Hunger Games, and other series in fandom. (00:00) Intro (05:00) Murderbot (37:00) Nerd news Host: Jomi Adeniran and Steve Ahlman Producer: Jonathan Kermah Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Daniel "do it all over again." First, they give their reviews of Season 2's penultimate 'TLOU' episode, "The Price," and then they break down the episode's departures from and additions to the game. Then they speculate about what could be coming in the season finale and beyond. Finally, Ben talks to Chris Rondinella, the musician who performed "Future Days," "Take On Me," and other songs in 'The Last of Us Part II,' about how he played Joel and Ellie. Intro (0:00) Reactions to Episode 6 (4:24) Interview with Chris Rondinella (1:19:08) Outro (1:32:59) Hosts: Ben Lindbergh and Daniel ChinGuest: Chris RondinellaProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben, Matt, and Steve share their (non-spoiler-y) impressions of the new first-person shooter 'Doom: The Dark Ages,' focusing on the ever-evolving nature of the franchise, whether the series' latest experiments improve upon its tried-and-true formula, how they'd rank the three most recent 'Doom' games, and more. Then, Ben brings on video game writer and screenwriter Tom Bissell, who wrote the three-part finale of 'Andor,' to talk about the 'Andor' writers room; working within story constraints and established universes; tying the finale to 'Rogue One'; the future of 'Star Wars' and IP storytelling in the aftermath of 'Andor'; 'Andor' as a video game; the differences between writing for TV and video games; his work on 'Uncharted,' 'Gears of War,' 'What Remains of Edith Finch,' and 'Masters of Doom'; Hollywood's appetite for video game adaptations; and more. Intro (0:00)Reactions to 'Doom: The Dark Ages' (2:30)Interview with Tom Bissell (35:35)Outro (1:41:53) Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Steve Ahlman, Tom Bissell, and Matt JamesProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Midnight Boys dive into Joel and Ellie’s father-daughter relationship in their instant reactions to the penultimate episode of Season 2 of ‘The Last of Us.’ Later, they turn their focus to the ‘Superman’ and ‘Ironheart’ trailers in the latest edition of Nerd News. Hosts: Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, Steve Ahlman, and Van Lathan Social: Jomi Adeniran Producers: Chris Thomas, Jamie Yukich, Jonathan Kermah, and Steve Ahlman Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Daniel got here from Jackson just in time to talk about Episode 5, "Feel Her Love." They discuss the specifics of the action and the pivotal closing scene, then pull back a bit to comment on how the effort to adapt the game is going before forecasting what could be coming next. Then, Ben talks to longtime Naughty Dog game developer Almudena Soria Sancho, lead animator on 'The Last of Us Part II,' about her thoughts on the 'TLOU' adaptation, bringing the Stalkers and other infected to life, perfecting performance capture, the advantages and drawbacks of film and TV versus video games, what she's most looking forward to seeing the rest of this season and next season, and more. Intro (0:00)Reactions to Episode (3:50)Interview with Almudena Soria Sancho (1:05:50)Outro (1:32:18) Hosts: Ben Lindbergh and Daniel ChinGuest: Almudena Soria SanchoProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boys are back, and they’re diving into ‘Andor’ Season 2, Episodes 10-12, the season’s final episodes. (0:00) Intro (3:30) Spoilers ahead (6:10) Initial reactions (1:43:05) Outro (1:45:26) Post-credits Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris, Jonathan Kermah, Chris Thomas, and Steve Ahlman Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boys are back and they’re diving into ‘The Last of Us’ Season 2, Episode 5. They discuss Ellie and Dina’s personality differences from the game and touch on some X-Men nerd news! (0:00) Intro (8:29) Spoilers ahead (10:13) Initial reactions (1:18:52) Nerd News (1:27:07) Outro Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris, Jonathan Kermah, and Steve Ahlman Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In honor of ‘The Last of Us’ Season 2, we’re trying four curated apocalypse meals and ranking them from best to worst. If you have the stomach for it, come along for the journey! (0:00) Intro (1:20) Steve’s Meal (6:54) Jomi’s Meal (11:28) Charles’s Meal (17:30) Van’s Meal (26:34) Midnight Collective’s Meal (30:46) Scoring and Prize Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris, Jonathan Kermah, and Steve Ahlman Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal and Brian Averalo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben and Daniel pass the halfway point of the second season as they visit Seattle and take on Episode 4, "Day One." After sharing their brief reviews of the episode, they discuss several significant changes to core characters and scenes from 'The Last of Us Part II' before wrapping up with some speculation about the structure of the remainder of the season (and beyond). Intro (0:00)Episode 4 breakdown and reactions (2:30)Predictions for the rest of the season (40:00)Outro (54:43) Hosts: Ben Lindbergh and Daniel ChinProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boys are back, and they’re diving into ‘Andor’ Season 2, Episodes 7-9. They discuss why these episodes feel monumental in the 'Star Wars' universe. (0:00) Intro (3:36) Spoilers ahead (6:25) Initial reactions (1:29:29) Outro Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Producers: Aleya Zenieris, Jonathan Kermah, and Steve Ahlman Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben, Matt, Jomi, and Steve join forces for an emergency reaction to the second trailer for ‘GTA VI’ and the newly announced details about the game’s plot, characters, and setting. First, they share their thoughts on how the trailer affected their overall levels of hype for the game, and then they run through some of the highlights, new revelations, and questions they still have before analyzing the impact of the game’s delay to May 2026. Intro (0:00) Reactions to ‘Grand Theft Auto VI’ trailer (3:14)Character rundown and gameplay speculation (26:53) Potential setbacks from release delay (48:18) Outro (1:08:00) Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Matt James, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve AhlmanProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To celebrate the 'Star Wars' holiday, Jomi and Steve are joined by Matt James to discuss the adventures of Asajj Ventress in the bite-sized animated series ‘Tales of the Underworld.’ (00:00) Intro (6:00) Spoilers ahead(20:30) The great heist adventure(54:30) Outro Hosts: Jomi Adeniran and Steve AhlmanGuest: Matt JamesProducer: Jonathan KermahAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Boys are giving you a special interview with 'Thunderbolts*' director Jake Schreier! (0:00) Intro (0:40) Interview (33:24) Outro Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman Guest: Jake Schreier Producers: Aleya Zenieris, Jonathan Kermah, Chris Thomas, and Steve Ahlman Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices