Frank, Jonathan, and Squeaks explore why Marvel continues to dominate over DC in the video game industry and discuss potential strategies for DC’s gaming revival. Frank gives an insightful review of Pixar’s Elio, highlighting its originality and emotional storytelling. The hosts also debate the ideal director for the next James Bond film, speculate on the future of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, and analyze Jon Bernthal’s return as Punisher in Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Plus, catch some entertaining moments, including Squeaks' memorable appearance in a Donkey Kong onesie!

Timestamps and Topics:

• 00:00: Squeaks’ Donkey Kong Onesie and Halloween Plans

• 01:26: Choosing Between Denis Villeneuve and Edgar Wright for Next Bond Film

• 06:13: Jon Bernthal Returns as Punisher in Spider-Man: Brand New Day

• 13:58: Russell Crowe Joins Henry Cavill in Highlander Reboot

• 18:31: Blumhouse Acquires the Saw Franchise

• 23:24: Upcoming Pixar Projects: Hoopers, Gato, and Toy Story 5

• 28:01: Final Season Announcement for Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

• 34:48: Pixar's Elio Movie Review and Analysis

• 43:14: Marvel vs DC Gaming: How Marvel Wins and DC’s Path Forward

Key Takeaways:

• Marvel’s success in gaming is driven by varied partnerships, genre diversity, and risk-taking.

• DC Gaming relies too heavily on Batman games; diversification is essential.

• Pixar’s Elio delivers a fresh, emotionally rich story with strong visuals.

• Strategic director choices for the James Bond franchise are critical for appealing to newer audiences.

• Upcoming Marvel games (Wolverine, Iron Man, Marvel Tokken) maintain excitement, while DC needs fresh ideas.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Marvel isn't afraid to experiment; DC needs to step outside the Batman box.”

• “It’s time to engage a younger audience—fresh ideas are essential for iconic franchises.”

• “Superman deserves gameplay mechanics as exciting and satisfying as Spider-Man’s web-swinging.”

Call to Action: Enjoy the conversation? Subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts using #GeekFreaksPodcast!

Links and Resources:

• Get the latest geek news at GeekFreaksPodcast.com

Follow Us:

• Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast

• Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast

• Twitter: @geekfreakspod

• Patreon: Geek Freaks Podcast

Listener Questions: Have suggestions or questions for future episodes? Reach out on social media or email us at Info@GFPods.com!

Apple Podcast Tags: Marvel Games, DC Gaming, Spider-Man, Wolverine, Iron Man, Pixar Elio, Next James Bond, Jon Bernthal Punisher, Highlander Movie, Blumhouse Saw, Toy Story 5, Star Trek Strange New Worlds, Geek Culture, Video Game Industry, Geek Freaks Podcast

In this special episode of Geek Freaks, Frank and Tyler from the Who's Got Next Podcast take you inside Sacramento's Capital Creative Showcase 2025. They explore the vibrant local indie video game scene, highlighting standout titles, engaging directly with developers, and sharing firsthand experiences from an event filled with creativity and innovation. From battle card games with food trucks to rhythm-driven platformers, the indie developers of Sacramento show impressive talent and polish.

Timestamps and Topics:

• 00:00 - Welcome & Event Introduction

• 01:05 - Highlight: Ala Card Game Overview

• 01:57 - Snap Quest: A Pokémon Snap-inspired Indie Gem

• 03:17 - Interview: Andrew from Beat Heart Beat

• 07:29 - Interview: Ash from Ala Card

• 09:39 - Interview: Katie, Director & Writer of Starbright Agency

• 17:16 - Interview: Garrett from BallBastic

• 30:24 - Interview: Developers of Bounty Quest

• 36:22 - Interview: Jason from Nerf Ground Assault

• 38:11 - Interview: Ryan from Ghost Hunter Simulator

• 40:50 - Interview: Teddy from Snap Quest

• 44:04 - Event Wrap-Up and Impressions

Key Takeaways:

• Sacramento's indie game scene is thriving with increasingly polished and unique games.

• Developers emphasize player feedback, iterative design, and continuous improvement.

• Games ranged from classic inspirations (Super Monkey Ball, Pokémon Snap) to innovative hybrids (food trucks with card mechanics).

• Many games will be available on Steam soon, offering demos or early access versions.

Memorable Quotes:

• "There's almost too much to consume in just a couple hours." - Tyler

• "Indie game development is climbing a mountain, only to find another taller mountain waiting." - Garrett

• "The juxtaposition of capitalism and heroism inspired Starbright Agency." - Katie

• "Video games are the best form of storytelling." - Katie

Call to Action: Enjoyed this dive into Sacramento's gaming scene? Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode using #GeekFreaksGaming. Your support helps spotlight amazing indie creators!

Links and Resources:

• Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for the latest geek news and show updates.

• Beat, Heart, Beat: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3239360/Beat_Heart_Beat/
• A La Card: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3180680/A_la_Card/
• Starbright Agency: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3449060/Starbright_Agency/
• BallBastic: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2428170/BallBastic/
• Bounty Quest Coming Soon
• Nerf Ground Assault Coming Soon
• Ghost Hunt Simulator Coming Soon
• Snap Quest: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2327110/Snap_Quest/

Follow Us:

• Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast

• Twitter: @geekfreakspod

• Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast

• Patreon: Support Us

Listener Questions: Have a game or developer you'd like us to feature? Send your suggestions and questions to our social media channels—we'd love to hear from you!

Apple Podcast Tags: indie games, Sacramento gaming, Capital Creative Showcase, indie developers, video game development, Beat Heartbeat, Ala Card, Starbright Agency, Ball Bastic, Bounty Quest, Nerf Ground Assault, Ghost Hunter Simulator, Snap Quest, video game industry, game interviews