State of the Arc Podcast
This podcast analyzes storytelling techniques in video games, movies, literature, and music. Hosted by Resonant Arc, it breaks down narrative structures and themes from popular and classic works. Occasionally, the host shares original music arrangements and compositions.
Episodes
Can A Video Game Prepare You For Death?
What are the most spiritual games you've ever played? What does spirituality mean to you? Have you ever had a transcendent experience while playing a game?
In this episode, we break down some of our most profound experiences playing games — games that weren't just emotional but deeply spiritual. This includes games like Xenogears, Ico, Journey, Terranigma, Death Stranding, Outer Wilds, and many m
The REAL Reason Sakaguchi Left Square | State of the Arc Podcast
Why did Hironobu Sakaguchi leave Squaresoft in 2001? People have long held the answer to be the movie Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within. However, that makes no sense. Think about it. Sakaguchi was their best game producer. Why demote him for a movie that flopped? Why not just put him back in charge of games which he is obviously VERY good at and is the company's central product? We tackle these qu
4 Game Villains Who Were Actually Right
Sometimes the most compelling villains are the ones who correctly identify a real problem: a collapsing society, a broken system, an impossible moral dilemma, or a truth the hero would rather avoid. In this episode, we look at four video game villains who may have been right in their diagnosis—but heinously wrong in their prescription.
Time Codes:
1. Intro (0:00)
2. Metal Gear Solid 2 (3:54)
3. C
It's E3 2026! Here's What We Can't Wait To Play
E3 didn't go away, it still lives on in our hearts... and online thanks to all the Direct's and State of Play's and all that. Luckily all these things are coming out around the time E3 used to take place anyway, so we don't have to miss out on anything. In this episode, we give our thoughts on Final Fantasy VII: Revelation, Final Fantasy: Resonance, Persona 6, Lost Hellden, Threads of Time, Xenobl
Dragon Quest XII May Have Saved Itself By Going Backward (Ft. FinalFantasyUnion )
The Dragon Quest 40th Anniversary livestream has come and gone, and the reaction from fans has been... mixed.
After years of silence, Square Enix finally reintroduced Dragon Quest XII, but the announcement raised lots of questions. Why was the game rebuilt from the ground up? What happened during development? Could starting over actually be the best thing that ever happened to the project?
Joini
Top 10 Gateway JRPGs | State of the Arc Podcast
What are the best RPGs for someone who has never played a JRPG before? Which games teach the foundations of the genre without overwhelming new players? And which games can genuinely turn a casual player into a lifelong fan?
We break down why games like Chrono Trigger, Dragon Quest, Pokémon Yellow, Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch, Persona 5, Golden Sun, EarthBound, Suikoden II, Super Mario RP
Announcement and Q+A
We talk Chrono Trigger and the future scheduling for our channel. Then we answer questions from Patreon! Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Patreon community if you have the means. Thanks for watching!
**Listen On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGlfF8kFW3
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Breaking Down Personality Types for Iconic Final Fantasy Characters
Ever wondered why Cloud feels like an anti‑hero, why Squall radiates lone‑wolf introvert energy, why Zidane is so charismatic, or why Tidus is secretly one of the most emotionally intelligent protagonists in the series?
In this episode, we break down the real psychology behind your favorite Final Fantasy characters using:
The Meyers-Briggs MBTI
Color Code
From FFVII, FFVIII, FFIX, and FFX, we an
The Mythical Hero's Journey in Final Fantasy IX w/ @overleveledgames
We analyze the story and characters of Final Fantasy IX to pluck out the elements of the Hero's Journey as outlined by Joseph Campbell and Christopher Vogler. Joining me is Gavin from @overleveledgames . Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Patreon community if you have the means. Thanks for watching!
**Listen On Spotify**: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gIzzvT3AfRHjGlfF8
The Inspiring Development of Expedition 33 [Ep.11] | State Of The Arc Podcast
We discuss the wild and inspiring development history of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The development for this game took many wild turns, as the team learned and grew. After watching this, maybe you might want to see if you can't get a start on that game you've been wanting to make for years... I hope you enjoy! Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.co
Nobuo Uematsu's Farewell to Final Fantasy - The Music of Final Fantasy 14 1.0 Before Meteor
We listen to the OST for Final Fantasy 14 1.0, Before Meteor. This soundtrack was primarily composed by the legendary Nobuo Uematsu, and was the final game in the Final Fantasy series that he composed for. In some ways, he shows everything he has learned on his long journey through so many Final Fantasy games, and also how he grew outside of video games in general, as a musician. This is the most
The Massive Iceberg of Expedition 33 [Ep.10] | State Of The Arc Podcast
We revisit the ending of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. This time we take it as far as we can go. We focus on the philosophical justifications for each choice in the ending scenario. We discovered some surprising things, and come to a very similar conclusion in the end. I hope you enjoy! Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
**We’re Now
The Heartbreaking Ending of Expedition 33 [Ep.9] | State Of The Arc Podcast
We finally make the choice. Which one, you ask? The right one, of course! Join us as we have a discussion with Dude McGuy and Keith Comito from www.lifespan.io . Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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Breaking Down The Music Of Final Fantasy Tactics | State of the Arc Podcast
Final Fantasy Tactics doesn’t sound like a typical Final Fantasy game. That’s exactly why it works.
In this episode, we break down the soundtrack of Final Fantasy Tactics, composed by Hitoshi Sakimoto and Masaharu Iwata, and explore how its music reinforces the game’s darker tone, political narrative, and tactical gameplay.
Instead of upbeat, heroic themes, Tactics leans into restraint; using re
The Mask Begins To Slip | Expedition 33 [Ep.8] | State Of The Arc Podcast
We play Act 3 in this episode, and stop JUST SHORT of the ending and the return to Lumiere. That being said, we talk about end of game spoilers here. SPOILERS, BEWARE! Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is such a blast to play! Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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What Really Happened To Final Fantasy vs XIII? | State of the Arc Podcast
Final Fantasy XV didn’t just have a troubled development; it was built on a foundation that would never work. Square Enix created Crystal Tools for Final Fantasy XIII, a highly linear game… and then tried to use that same technology to build an open-world project in Versus XIII. What followed was nearly a decade of delays, engine rewrites, and constant restructuring, until the original vision coll
Monster Hunter Stories 3 Is Way Better Than I Expected | State Of The Arc Podcast
Monster Hunter Stories 3 surprised us!
What looked at first like a smaller Monster Hunter spinoff turned out to be one of the most engaging JRPG experiences we’ve had so far this year. From its layered turn-based combat to its monster ecology systems and mythic symbolism embedded in its world, there is far more going on here than we anticipated.
In this video, we break down why Monster Hunter St
Do JRPG's Do Faith Better Than Church? | State of the Arc Podcast
For those interested in attending the Sakimoto concert in London, you can learn more and buy tickets here: https://www.fairfield.co.uk/events/lmp-the-colours-of-harmony-2026
What do many JRPG's understand about faith that churches often miss? Here are the ways that JRPGs preach faith more effectively (especially for young people) than churches. This is one where Mike and Casen find common ground
Chrono Triggered: Remake or Mistake? | State of the Arc Podcast
If Chrono Trigger doesn't need a remake, is there any value in remaking it anyways? What if it does need a remake? Does a remake of Chrono Trigger have anything to offer newer audiences? Or is the whole "new audiences" shtick a gimmick to turn all our conversations about a beloved game into discussions on the merits and demerits of the remake itself (as has happened to many other games that are re
You’re Doing Game Criticism Wrong, And It’s Destroying Your Life | State of the Arc Podcast
The way you critique games says far more about your thinking, your communication, and even your relationships than you might realize.
In this episode, we break down what good criticism actually looks like, why so many people approach it the wrong way, and how learning to critique art properly can genuinely improve your life. From heated online debates to everyday conversations, the skills behind
I Waited 30 Years For This Gaming Experience | State of the Arc Podcast
I always felt like I was born in the wrong time. I grew up on science fiction-- Star Trek, Star Gate, Star Wars--but I knew I would never live in a world where I could actually sit in the cockpit of a spaceship and travel to other planets. Now I've come as close as I ever will! After finally diving into VR, with games like No Man’s Sky, Elite Dangerous, Resident Evil 4, and Half-Life: Alyx, I had
Is VR Dead? W/ Keith Comito | State of the Arc Podcast
Meta cut several studios and fired over a thousand people who were working on Virtual Reality and now we're wondering if VR will EVER catch on. What are the biggest obstacles to VR finally catching on, or will it just never be something the majority of people feel comfortable with? Join us and Keith Comito of Lifespan.io to discuss THE FUTURE. Thanks for watching and support us on Patreon if you l
FF7R Director Pissed Off The Internet... AGAIN! | State of the Arc Podcast
Another week, another quote from a Final Fantasy developer that made people on X mad. We give our take on what Hamaguchi actually said, then take a look at an AI-slop Zelda trailer and talk about Dragon Quest's 40th anniversary!
Time Codes
01. Intro (0:00)
02. FF7R Director Made The Internet Mad Again (1:11)
03. AI Slop Zelda Trailer (24:16)
04. Dragon Quest 40th Anniversary (1:01:20)
Dragon Quest VII Reimagined Thoughts | State Of The Arc Podcast
We got to play the demo of Dragon Quest VII Reimagined and absolutely loved it! But then, of course, we got curious about the original DQ7 game and so Casen started playing it and.... Wow. These games are quite different. If you are new to the series or a seasoned veteran of all things Dragon Quest, we'd love to hear from you! What are your thoughts on this new reimagined version of the game? If y
There Is No Spoon | The Matrix Analysis (Ep2) | State Of The Arc Podcast
If there is no spoon, then what's to keep you from bending it with your mind? Or is it you that bends instead? Here is part 2 of our analysis of That Matrix! Will Neo save the planet? Find out in not this movie but the ones after but this movie is still awesome! Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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The Long Trail Of Breadcrumbs | Expedition 33 [Ep.7] | State Of The Arc Podcast
For this episode, we decided to go back through all of the breadcrumbs left by the storytellers throughout acts 1 and 2. Don't watch this episode if you have not yet gotten to the very start of act 3. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is such a blast to play! Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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Are We In A Simulation? Matrix Analysis | State Of The Arc Podcast
What if we're all in The Matrix....? Are we in a simulation? How is the word "simulation" best defined? Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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The Paintress And The Monolith | Expedition 33 [Ep.6] | State Of The Arc Podcast
We play through the end of Act 2 and stop right at the very beginning of Act 3. This is where much of the games mystery is revealed and we can finally talk more openly about what's been going on in this game the whole time. We fight the Paintress and discover her secrets. Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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The Heart Of The Paintress | Expedition 33 [Ep.5] | State Of The Arc Podcast
Act 2 kicks off with a quest for the heart of the paintress. We meet Monocco and get to have a lot more fun before a very dark and unfortunate ending. We're glad you can join us as we discuss this roller coaster of emotions. Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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"Why... Why Are You Doing This?" | Expedition 33 [Ep.4] | State Of The Arc Podcast
We meet the man from the beach again, and things go poorly for the party. Act I ends and Act 2 begins without much hope. But we do meet a new character named Verso. The party has to regroup and move forward despite having even less chance than ever of completing their task. Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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You'll Be Fine. Just Don't Die. | Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 [Ep.3] | State Of The Arc Podcast
We talk everything up to the end of Act 1 today! We didn't actually get there in this episode but we still threw in a thing or two from that part. We meet Esquie and the Gestrals who are just a joy to be around. Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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**List
When One Falls, We Continue | Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 [Ep.2] | State Of The Arc Podcast
In this episode, we go from the beach through the flying waters. We only got about halfway through Act I. For next week, finish Act I completely. Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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**Listen O
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 [Ep.1] | State Of The Arc Podcast
For the start of our Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 analysis we take a slightly different tact than we have previously. Instead of doing Dev History first, we're just diving right into the game itself! Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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The History Of JRPGs | Ep.1 | What Was The First JRPG? (Ft. Pat Holleman)
JRPGs weren’t born where you think. We unpack the origins of the term, the genre, and the influences that defined it.
In this episode of State of the Arc, Mike and Casen begin a multi-episode deep dive into the history of JRPGs—where the genre came from, how it evolved, and why it took the shape it did. We’re joined by Pat Holleman, author of the Reverse Design series and director of the indie RP
The Music of Final Fantasy XIII | State of the Arc Podcast
While Final Fantasy 13 is often praised for its graphics, it is the music that really elevates this game to a whole new level. The complexity and creativity on display here by Masashi Hamauzu make this soundtrack a spectacular treat for the ears. We spend more time going through this soundtrack than I think any other game yet. It is just so textured and dynamic and intriguing. Hope you enjoy! If y
I Don't Like Dragon Quest HD 2D... I LOVE IT! | State of the Arc Podcast
With the release of Dragon Quest I & II HD 2D, I decided to try out all the previous versions of the game to compare. What I found is an endlessly charming little RPG that I have absolutely fallen in love with. While I've played many Dragon Quest games before (DQ5, DQ8, DQ9, and DQ11), it's the first game that has now made me a fan for life. What a fantastic game and what a great remake to introdu
The Expedition 33 Analysis Is About To Begin... | State Of The Arc Podcast
In Episode 0 of our analysis of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, we discuss our approach to this analysis as well as the reason for a delay in uploading the first episode. This game is amazing AND YOU SHOULD PLAY IT OK! Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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Eternal Darkness Ep. 2: Is Free Will An Illusion? | State Of The Arc Podcast
If you beat the game in all 3 routes, you get what is typically called the true ending of the game. Luckily, playing Eternal Darkness 3 times over is a treat, not a chore. Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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The Scariest Game You Never Played: Eternal Darkness | State Of The Arc Podcast
Eternal Darkness deserves your attention this Halloween season. Why is this game not up there with Resident Evil and Silent Hill in terms of sequels and movies and the like? We get into how this masterpiece of a horror game found itself on the outside looking in. Thanks for watching, and don't forget to support us on Patreon~ https://www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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The Music of Final Fantasy XII | State of the Arc Podcast
Final Fantasy 12 has some devastatingly beautiful music, and only one single song on the entire soundtrack was written by Nobuo Uematsu. The rest was done by Hitoshi Sakimoto, with some additional contributions by Masaharu Iwata. While we all miss Nobuo Uematsu, Hitoshi Sakimoto absolutely nailed it on this soundtrack. It's incredible! Mike and Casen come out of this episode with an even higher op
The Music of Final Fantasy XI | State of the Arc Podcast
Final Fantasy 11 has an incredible soundtrack that has too often been overlooked. Mike and Casen learn from the great experts Greg Troyan and Velhart, who know Final Fantasy 11 like the back of their hand. We both came away from this podcast feeling very excited and positive about the prospect of playing this game again in the future. Hopefully you feel the same! Don't forget to support us on Patr
What Is The Point Of Remakes?
Has there ever been a good remake? Why remake something that's already good? Obviou$ly there i$ a huge in¢entive to re-relea$e good $elling product$ again and again, but we're here to debate the artistic use or other incentives than purely the money aspect. What are more valid reasons to alter art decades after it's been placed into the arms of the public. Tell us your thoughts in the comments bel
Should YOU Make A Video Game? | The Realities of Indie Game Development
Have you ever thought about making a video game? Well, today we sit down with the developers behind Quartet, Geo Mythica, Shrine's Legacy, and Kingdoms of the Dump to discuss the realities of indie game development! There's a lot of great advice here to consider before you try jumping into making your own game!
You can buy or wishlist these games here!
Quartet: https://store.steampowered.com/app
NEW Final Fantasy Tactics: Ivalice Chronicles Review #sponsored
Check out Final Fantasy Tactics - The Ivalice Chronicles! Available now for Nintendo Switch 2™, Nintendo Switch™, PS5®, PS4®, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam and Steam Deck. https://ffc.click/FFT_ResonantArc #sponsored
We loved playing this new version of Final Fantasy Tactics over the past few weeks and would like to share our thoughts about it with you. We hope you enjoy the video and consider
Expedition 33 Defeats Xenoblade! | + 7 Indie Games You HAVE To Play!
The votes are in! Expedition 33 has defeated Xenoblade Chronicles in a VERY close vote. We'll be covering E33 next as a long-form podcast series! Additionally, I have seven excellent indie titles that you should check out! You definitely want to take a look at these; don't miss out on them!
Time Codes:
1. Intro (0:00)
2. E33 Wins The Vote! (1:10)
3. Next Week's Podcast Episode Topic (2:28)
4. Qua
BONUS Final Fantasy IX Episode w/ @GamingWithSpoons and @FinalFanTV | FF9 Analysis
We are joined by two wonderful gentlemen to talk yet MORE Final Fantasy IX in this special bonus episode. @FinalFanTV and @GamingWithSpoons bring the fire and expertise to what has been one of our favorite reviews ever. Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Patreon community if you have the means. Thanks for watching!
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Melodies of Life: How FFIX’s Ending Stays With You Forever | FF9 Analysis
We dive deep into the unforgettable finale of Final Fantasy IX. From Zidane and Garnet’s emotional reunion to Vivi’s poignant farewell. Join us as we unpack the themes, hidden details, and lasting impact of one of the most heartfelt endings in gaming history. Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Patreon community if you have the means. Thanks for watching!
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You Are Not Alone: FFIX’s Most Powerful Moment | FF9 Analysis
Zidane and crew are off to Terra for an experience that will change them all forever. Final Fantasy IX delivers big moments and big payoff's here at the end of disk 3, and sets us up for the final battle that is to come. Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Patreon community if you have the means. Thanks for watching!
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Identity, Power, and a Dagger | FF9 Analysis
Princess Garnet has been locked up everywhere she has gone, and doesn't feel like she has much control over her life. That may be about to change. Through the ritual of cutting her hair, she is freeing herself to become the person she needs to be in order to rule as queen. We go from Kuja's prison, through Oeilvert through to the point at which we can finally fly in an airship! This is Final Fanta
Death Stranding 2 Review [SPOILERS]
Gear up for this SPOILER filled review of Death Stranding 2! Guitar battles and dance routines make this game a hard one to pin down, but when dealing with Hideo Kojima, it's usually best to leave all your preconceived motions at the door (as much as you can, I suppose). We both loved this game, but have different opinions on the story itself. Please consider supporting us on Patreon if you have t
Vivi Finally Gets ANGRY | FF9 Analysis
Regent Cid becomes a... frog? Garnet loses her voice and Quina miraculously survives... but is now very hungry. Then Quina meets new frog-Cid. It's a blast! Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Patreon community if you have the means. Thanks for watching!
Time Codes:
1. Intro (0:00)
2.
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Utter Devastation | FF9 Analysis
We go from the beginning of disc 3, which is actually wonderful for character development, all the way to the destruction of Alexandria, which is very sad. Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Patreon community if you have the means. Thanks for watching!
Time Codes:
1. Intro (0:00)
2.
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**Listen On
Kuja's Gambit At The Deadly Tree Of Life | FF9 Analysis
Well, he's done it. Kuja finally turned Brahne on him. But things may not go the way Brahne expected. The entry onto the outer continent takes us all the way to the end of disc 2 which ends with a huge bang. Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Patreon community if you have the means. Thanks for watching!
Time Codes:
1. Intro (0:00)
2.
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Destruction and Mayhem In Cleyra And Lindblum | FF9 Analysis
We take a step or two back to follow Zidane and friends as they journey from Burmecia to Cleyra. That didn't end well so then they go to the safe haven of Lindblum. That ended poorly as well, and now our friends, after saving Garnet from her own mother (?) are on a journey into the outer continent to try and find some way to stop Kuja and Brahne from annihilating everything they know and love. Enj
Of Nobles And Thieves: Dark City Treno | FF9 Analysis
Garnet and Steiner continue their journey from the South Gate all the way to Dark City Treno. Tot, Baku and Marcus are all feature prominently in this one, as well as the beautiful backgrounds and environments. These sequences of the game are masterfully crafted. Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Patreon community if you have the means. Thanks for watching!
Time Codes:
1
Marshland Munchies: Quina, What ARE You? | FF9 Analysis
Right out the gate we have an exciting podcast for you. Quina, Chocobo's and Moogles, all the things that make Final Fantasy IX great. Meeting Quina's tribe is a blast and making our way through Burmecia was thrilling. We play all the way up to the end of disc 1 for this episode. Next time, we'll get through Treno and into Alexandria. Enjoy the podcast, and don't forget to become a part of our Pat
Let The Hunt Begin! The Glory of Lindblum | FF9 Analysis
Lindblum is the coolest city in all of Final Fantasy. Not only is the world building perfectly executed here, the facing of the story is perfect as well. It's difficult to imagine how this stretch in Final Fantasy IX could have been done better. From Freya and Regent Cid's introduction, through the Festival of the Hunt and up to Garnet's stunning exit from the city, this entire sequence is a thril
So, about that Final Fantasy retrospective series...
Huge thanks to all of our patrons who support us through thick and thin! You make what we do possible! You can support us on Patreon, or Subscribe Star. Thank you!!
Now for the big question... what has become of the Final Fantasy retrospective series on this channel? As well as the bigger question, what will become of the Final Fantasy retrospective series?
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How Death Stranding Changed Me Forever | My Journey Through Solitude
Death Stranding is one of the most unusual and unique games I've ever played. It flies in the face of conventions and stretches itself out into the real world in some unexpected ways. But, as with most of Hideo Kojima's games, it has a charm that is irresistible. Please consider supporting us on Patreon if you have the means. Thanks for watching! www.patreon.com/resonantarc
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A Chilling Discovery: Vivi Enters The Void | FF9 Analysis
From the edge of the Petrified Forest to the dramatic entry into Lindblum, this is one of the most exciting stretches of Final Fantasy IX. The most notable moment in this stretch is when Vivi discovers the dark secret beneath Dali. What would you do? What would you think? Would you think at all? Can you think if you are not? If you don't exist? All this and more will be tackled in the next hour an
Adventure, Intrigue, and a Stolen Princess | FF9 Analysis (Ep.2)
The way that the intro to this game is framed by a theatrical performance is absolutely brilliant. Once again, Sakaguchi displays his prowess in the drafting of yet another beautiful and captivating introductory sequence that holds our attention and immerses us into a new and exciting world in Final Fantasy IX. We discuss the beginning of this game all the way up until the ship crashes into the Ev
How Final Fantasy IX Closed a Golden Age | FF9 Analysis (Ep.1) | Ft. Final Fantasy Union
A big thank you to Flydigi for sponsoring this video! Visit shops.flydigi.com and enter the discount code "resonantarc" for 10% off your order!
In today's episode, we're collaborating with Daryll from @FinalFantasyUnion to bring the development history of Final Fantasy IX. This is part 1 of a series where we will break down the story of FF9 chapter by chapter, explaining the thought process of th
The Music Of Final Fantasy X w/ Final Fantasy Union
Final Fantasy 10 has some of the best music in video games. Nobuo Uematsu was aided by Masashi Hamauzu and Junya Nakano to craft this truly special soundtrack. Much like this podcast was aided by Daryl from Final Fantasy Union! Don't forget to support us on Patreon if you enjoy the content. Thank you!
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26 Years Later Suikoden II Hits Harder Than Ever
In its opening moments, Suikoden II plunges you into a war-torn world where childhood friendships are shattered and impossible choices must be made. Underscored by Miki Higashino’s masterful soundtrack, it promises a journey filled with heartbreak, betrayal, and a desperate struggle for peace.
This isn’t just another retro RPG — it’s a deeply personal tale about the cost of conflict, the bonds tha
Kubrick’s Mind-Bending Masterpiece, Explained 2001 A Space Odyssey State of the Arc Podcast
Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey isn’t just a sci-fi classic—it’s a cinematic milestone that changed the language of film. In this video, we break down the film’s mysterious symbolism, groundbreaking visuals, and philosophical questions about evolution, technology, and humanity’s place in the universe.
Whether you’re a film buff, a philosophy nerd, or a JRPG fan who spotted the Xenogears i
Suikoden HD Remaster Review | Worth Playing In 2025?
In March, the long-awaited remaster of Suikoden 1 & 2 was released, and Casen and I have decided to dive into these classic games to give our thoughts on the quality of the remaster and reviews of the games themselves. We're covering Suikoden 1 this week, and next week, we'll get into Suikoden 2!
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Dark Gaia | Terranigma Analysis (Finale) | State of the Arc Podcast
Today we reach the end of our playthrough of Terranigma. We hope you've enjoyed this series as much as we've enjoyed talking about it. Thank you for watching and supporting the channel!
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The Hidden Meaning Behind Tidus' Cringey Laugh
Tidus laugh has been the subject of intense debate within the Final Fantasy X community. Some love it, others hate it. Clarity on the scene proper has been provided by the directors of the game and also the translators and localizers. However, a new discover is going to overturn the tables and recast the entire scene in a whole new light. Please consider supporting us on Patreon if you have the me
Expedition 33 Story Discussion | State of the Arc Podcast
Apologies to those expecting a Terranigma episode, but we really wanted to talk more about Expedition 33 this week! This is an extended version of the conversation we had on Monday in our final review about the ending and the central themes of the game. It is possible that we'll do a full series on this game at some point. Let us know if you'd like to see that!
Expedition 33: Our Final Verdict After 100 Hours
After 100 hours, I can confidently say that Expedition 33 is one of my favorite games. The story is deeply human, the combat is incredibly fun long-term, and the world is absolutely beautiful. In this review, we'll explain how this game puts itself in the lead for one of the best games of 2025.
Resurrection Of The Genius | Terranigma Analysis (Ep.4) | State of the Arc Podcast
The resurrection of the genius is chapter 3 of Terranigma. Genius can mean several things, and we go with more of the old Greek reading of that word. Chapter 3 is the longest and most fun chapter of the game. Also, a heads up, Casen's jaw was giving him all sorts of trouble so if he's stretching it out a lot, mercilessly tease him in the comments. Leave a comment and support us on Patreon if you e
The Incredible History Of Nintendo W/ Acquired | State of the Arc Podcast
David from the Acquired podcast joins us to talk about the fascinating, mysterious and incredible history of Nintendo. From selling concrete, to cards, to toys, and ultimately video game systems, Nintendo has left an intriguing trail behind them. Thanks for watching this episode on the history of Nintendo! Please consider supporting us on Patreon if you have the means. Thanks for watching!
**We'r
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Review | The Best RPG In 20 Years?
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 came out of nowhere and has left us completely stunned. This game has just changed the industry for the better. This review has NO SPOILERS, but tons of footage! As a disclaimer, we have not yet finished it. Mike is around 20 hours in and Casen is around 35 hours in. But wow, this game is absolutely worth playing. Please consider supporting us on Patreon if you have the
Death of the Author: Finding Meaning in Art | State of the Arc Podcast
Daniel Santos @DanielSantosAnalysis joins us to discuss 'death of the author', which is a method of engaging with art that does NOT involve any consideration for what the author intended for the work to mean. Though we started out there, we slowly moved into topics like AI, God, Objectivity and whether or not people really are seeing Jesus in their coffee, toast or potato chips. All 3 of us are
Life Is IL-LO-GI-CAL | Terranigma Analysis (Ep.3) | State of the Arc Podcast
The way that life and the world are presented in this game is endlessly charming. We proceed through the resurrection of all of the the animals up to the moment that humans are reborn, which is the end of chapter 2. Leave a comment and support us on Patreon if you enjoy this content. Thank you!
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Preserving Good Old Games | State of the Arc Podcast
Mike has on Adam and Marcin from Good Old Games to discuss the importance of game preservation. With so many games being made every year, it is easy for consumers and producers to lose sight of how to best preserve the forgotten relics of the past. Please consider supporting us on Patreon if you have the means. Thanks for watching!
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The Greatest RPG You Never Played | Terranigma Analysis (Ep.2) | State of the Arc Podcast
This game is beautiful, and the first Chapter, which we cover here, is not one you'll soon forget. Not only that, it's funny and strange in all the best ways. It feels like a taste of that golden age of RPG's, but one that many people missed out on. Play this game now, for your own good. You'll thank me later. Leave a comment and support us on Patreon if you enjoy this content. Thank you!
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The Switch 2 Is Seriously Impressive | State of the Arc Podcast
We now know everything we wanted to know about the Switch 2! Well, almost everything. Due to pricing questions we are waiting for more information before we include that issue in our discussion. In the mean time, that direct was wonderful and there are some exciting things coming from Nintendo! Thank you for watching and remember to subscribe and join us on Patreon!
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The Mysterious Development History Of Terranigma (Ep.1) | State of the Arc Podcast
Terranigma is one of the most touching and beautiful games ever made. It is near the top of Mike's list of favorite games ever and Casen is now playing it for the first time. We cover the history of the games development, including why it never came to the America, and what may have happened to the lead developers who seem to have vanished in an enigma themselves. Much mystery surrounds this game,
A Switch Eulogy: Looking Back | State of the Arc Podcast
The Switch 2 has been announced, thus signaling that the end of the Switch's life is imminent. As we look back on a life well lived, we remember the good times. The games that made us laugh and cry, the experiences that we'll always remember. The Switch may not be long for this world, but it will always live on inside our hearts. May it rest in peace. Much of this video is a reaction to our initia
