Tired of hearing about Covid and don’t want to hear your booster propaganda. Not gonna listen any more.

Good show

Love these guys. Very insightful, funny, and unique set of voices.

For defending Xenoblade Chronicles 2 for having a compass and map that forces you to *gasp* ACTUALLY EXPLORE!

Really enjoy listening to this podcast. They’re all very knowledgeable and funny. Just needs more Caitlin! Keep it up guys.

I've been a fan of RPGFan since 2004. My user name on the forums is Giga Force and I've been listening to the podcast since its inception and have loved each episode. I think you guys should add a Q&A session in the future and what ever happened to listener mail? I sent in a question to the show last year and you guys never answered it :) The cast is great and there are plenty of funny moments on here.

For talk about RPGs, it really doesn't get much better than this. They know their stuff and put on a very professional and thoughtful cast. But you're also going to get a doze of modern sjw talk at least twice an episode. Mostly in sex negative feminism from the host, and backed up by proud 'badge of honor' sjw side kicks.

One of the few RPG podcasts that actually exist to talk about Japanese RPGs that I've come across that have decent quality. When the hosts talk about gaming, I'm cool with the hosts and they offer some good views. But my problem with them, and why I have three stars, is the hypocrisy in their comments on the normal SJW platform. So many double standards in the opinions they will give out. I don't mind someone having a different opinion and bringing different points of view in, but sometimes I wonder if they ever even listen to what they say. Makes an overall good podcast unbearable at times.

I like this podcast alot, it has great discussions about the current rpg's coming out, talks on the current state of the rpgs and games, all while keeping an upbeat tone. Thanks!

A great cast of people that love video game RPGs, they talk about their experiences with many different games and have intelligent conversations. Keep up the great work guys

It's really great to have a podcast focused on RPG's, we all know it's the best genre haha. Rob can be pretty douche-y, but the cast had good interaction.

My joking title aside, I thoroughly enjoy listen to this podcast. The discussion and banter between the crew is quite enjoyable and occasionally funny. The variety of titles that are talked about is great, and I have acquired a large backlog of games from the conversations and recommendations in the episodes. The passion for RPGs and video games in general is obvious, and it is great to hear people talk about these games they love. I started listening to the podcast a couple of years ago, and usually only listened to new episodes that had discussion that interested me. I then decided to start from the beginning to see the origins of the podcast and have now listened to every episode. The progression was fun to listen to. Keep up the great work! I am always looking forward to the next episode.

After this past episode and the host's inability to have a calm discussion, this podcast has lost my interest. I used to love this podcast but the host's all or nothing attitude and nitpicking attitude, it has turned me off.

...seriously.

Fun podcast. You guys are funny and have varied taste. However, I would like a female opinion on some these matters. It is not that hard to find a female rpg fan. Other than that....keep trying

I've been listening since the beginng and I would say this. It's the kind of podcast where you listen to some cool guys telling you good games you've heard of, good games you haven't, and bad games that you should ignore. If you don't have friends to talk to about RPG's twice a month, this is a good place to start.

I first discovered RPGFan when i was looking up reviews for a little know Wii rpg, Arc Rise Fantasia. I was impressed with the professionalism and passion in each contributors reviews and columns and was pleasently surprised to see that same energy in their flagship podcast, Random Encounter. Unlike a lot of other video game based new media, this roundtable is not about bemoaning the evils of the video game industry or bashing renowned games everyone adores or even about being angry at video games in general, it's about loving rpgs and wanting to get to the heart of why we love video games as a whole. Personally, this is where I want video games new media to go, less cynicism, less snark, and more insightful discussion All that being said, there are a minute number of times that this show rubs me the wrong way. All of the contributors brought in to the discussion are well informed, intelligent, and present their opinions well. But from time to time, I don't think the hosts think about how the hosts are phrasing their opinions. For the most part, the hosts are good about putting forward that this is their opinions and even bring up opposing viewpoints. But often, I see the hosts - Mr. Steinman in particular - offering statements that are absolutist in their standing, as opposed to subjective viewpoints. There are plenty of games worthy of scrutiny and critique, but I feel that the discussion sometimes boils down to "my experience was bad, ergo this game was bad and should not be played" as opposed to "here's what made up my experience, here's why it didn't appeal to me, but here's who it may appeal to". Now, to be fair, this is not isolated to Random Encounter. I have seen this philosophy growing more and more in games new media. The internet loves to see things in black and white. And at it's heart, Random Encounter is not about telling it's listeners what to like and dislike. It's about the discussion, the dialogue, and that, to me, is what's missing in interactive media critique. We can spend all day debating what games are good or bad. But if we dont' spend the time discussing what games are all about, then we've missed the point. Random Encounter gets that, and that's why I think it's one fo the best video game podcasts out right now.

I drive a lot for my work meaning I have a lot of free time to listen to music and radio. After hundreds of hours of music I started to listen to the radio a lot more often then music, eventually I started to get bored of topics that had no relation to my interests in life and hobbies. It struck me like lightning, the idea of podcasts had fully come to fruition in my brain, as I had never listened to a podcast in my life. Podcasts are radio with topics you want to hear. That being said, this is my first podcast that I have been listening to for about a year now. These guys are fantastic, I feel like I could hang out with these guys and drink a beer with. Come to socal and we can go brewery hopping. I know Rob is a scotch man but still. The cast is colorful, well spoken, informative and funny. Their thoughts on games and everything about those games (music, art, story, gameplay etc.) are usually right in tune with my own associations. Rob, Stephan and Derek are my favorite cast members to listen to. Keep up the great work guys, I love the show. P.S. I dont like iTunes or this review would have been sent a LONG time ago. This is the only reason I installed the sluggish program in the first place.

Great informative entertaining show. I listen all the time, just not enough new episodes! :)

This podcast is one of my favorites. I love the scope and range of games that the guys discuss, as well as the countless treads into the past of some of video games' greatest RPGs. They're quite the characters and play off of their chemistry quite well. The conversations for the most part are rather objective and give plenty of helpfule insight into some of the more oscbure and/or indie titles. My wishlist of games just keeps growing with every episode. Lastly it's humbling to hear that the hosts of the show seem like everyday guys like myself and feel like you could just be chatting with them about video games over a couple of whiskies! Thanks guys! Please give a shout out to Don!

The guys on the show have great banter between each other. The comments are very informative and add great insite to the RPGs that are coming out.

Seriously though, this podcast is fantastic. It’s fun, intelligent, engaging and dynamic. I’ve been a bit out of the industry loop since college and this podcast has been an easy way ‘to get back in-so to speak-’ without feeling completely lost. The hosts are at times hilarious and I enjoy all the pop culture reference to many facets of geekology. This podcast will gives the listener more than just blind praise or unstructured criticism of the latest games. The hosts make a point to develop thorough and articulate analysis for each game they discuss. They are also quick to point of their personal biases so they don’t sway the listener into a particular point of view. These groups of guys are passionate about the industry and are dedicated to bringing the listener the best critique of material available.

Really love this podcast. I've recently taken up listening to these on my way to work and they are certainly more entertaining than hearing that Iggy Azalea song another 50 times. (You know the song. The bad one.) I like being excited about an upcoming game (Destiny) and then being able to load up the podcast and hear everyone be equally excited or, if they're not, be able to lead an in depth conversation about why or why not. I also play some older RPGs every know and then and it's cool going through their back episodes and being able to find episodes discussing even these older games. If I had to nitpick and find something I don't like about this show: they could put more episodes out a month.

I’m a new listener who started about 3 months ago, and now always looks forward to new podcast/surfing your site. The only issue I have is shows are heavily spaced out! I know there isn’t always a lot of great new games out, but I would love a side show like your video game music one. A show where you go over older rpg games and give your opinions. I would love to see that, would give me great suggestions of what old games to play.

Listening to these guys talk about role playing video games is a treat, which might sound like hyperbole but in my experience listening to two dozen podcasts a week it is unusual to hear anyone talk about RPGs with such revery and insight as the hosts of this show. If you like old school RPGs from the Super Nintendo era or something more modern, such as Dark Souls II - they cover it. So give this podcast a chance and get hooked.

Finally a show that focuses on RPGs!!!

This is the first podcast I've ever listened to with any regularity, and it's still my first choice for talk about RPGs. These guys really love the genre (both Western and Japanese) and delve into a lot of the aspects that make it so great. I especially love that they often discuss the classics in addition to recent releases. There are hardly any episodes where I don't find myself nodding in appreciation or nostalgia because of the spirited conversations (sometimes debates) between the hosts. If you love RPGs, you should listen to this podcast.

Ok your core dialog is great. Games covered extensive. Format is loose but gets the job done. I only have one complaint. Give it to me more often please I feel like I really could stand at least two shows in the time you put out one. Ok so I have a question. With all of the tales games coming out lately I have found myself wanting to try out the franchise I'm just not sure where to jump in what would you guys say is a good game to start off with? I have a 3ds, vita, ps3, wii, and a gaming PC I say my hardware so you can pick from all games that may be available. Thanks and keep up the good work! Matt Dodson from Michigan. Ps Ni No Kuni is awesome and so is xeno Bladechronicals

The hosts have gotten way too pretentious lately and its not enjoyable to listen to. There are far more interesting rpg podcasts out there like RPGcast by RPGamer.

Best RPG podcast out there. Keep it up lads.

They update about twice a month and give me a great run down of RPG's. News, and personal experiences with Role Playing Games that can not be replaced. Great cast of individuals who express there love for the genere and let me join in there conversation. Always fun.

Informative, the cast has good chemistry, and no dead air.

Yo im'a tell you right now, THIS IS THE GREATEST MOTHER FLIPPIN' PODCAST OF ALL TIME. Word up. You like RPG's? You like fly dudes talking about RPG's? I know you love it so listen up and recognize. Word up

A great RPG fan podcast, I look forward to it each week or two. Also, looking forward to 2014 when they review some of the high profile RPGs like Witcher 3 and Dragon Age Inquisition.

Normally in most podcasts such as Random Encounter, there tends to be this sinister attitude and petty biased intent on discussing certain games. Sure you have Robert who seems like the type of person who most likely kisses his copy of Dark Souls before bed, Derek who never wants to stop his over fanatical fascination with the Tales and Ys series, and Stephen who seems to only play Diablo most of the time when he's bored in the show; but they all fit in a great chemistry even when they are at each other's throats. Kind of like that kind of TV Sitcom where you see a group of people living together where it's obvious that they don't get along perfectly but they make the best of it and succeed. I always feel at home whenever an episode is posted, it's just a shame that they can only do one monthly, I wouldn't mind if they did it 1 every 2 weeks at most. It's a podcast for fans of any type of RPG fan, whether they are old-school or new rpg fans. Great stuff!

Being a long time listener of this podcast, this was due. Excellent podcast, the best one about rpg's !!!!

I really like the podcast. I don't always agree because I am a girl gamer and sometimes the viewpoints are very guy centric which will bother almost no one else. They meander all over the place and just when you think, man I don't care what they are talking about, they will hit on a very interesting topic and talk about it for a while so it keeps me interested. It wouldn't hurt to mention the review scores you gave for a game when you are talking about it. You slammed Ni No Kuni but then gave it scores in the 90s on your site.

One of my favorite podcasts! It's always good to find people who share the taste you do in something you like, so if you are a fan of RPGs then this podcast is made specifically for you! Be it news, impressions, reviews or anything related to those genre of game many of us hold dear, I say this is the show to listen to. Unlike the major sites, here you will find honest opinions, expectations or even disappointments about a game but you know they are genuine. Once you get used to their preferences you know what to expect of them and you can take their opinions in comparison to yours to know if you might like a particular game or not. One of them in particular, Rob, loves Dark Souls so much he mentions it almost every show but doing so doesn't make it repetitive, but instead gives you, the listener, a better insight on him, the game and what games that share some things you might not have heard of but could enjoy! Farron from the boards here, keep up the great work!

If you are looking for a bi-weekly Dark Souls podcast then look no further. The show consists of: 90% Dark Souls fanboyism 7% Final Fantasy XIII bashing 3% other In all honesty though, it is a group of guys that know and love their RPGs. I enjoy it.

This is definitely my favorite gaming podcast. The podcast has a great structure to it and a great balance of opinions that prevents it from ever being overly negative in the discussions. Also, as a fan of Dark souls, I love how it is referenced in seemingly un relatable topics throughout almost each episode

Just finished the last podcast, you guys hit home talking about how we used to be optimistic about new games. Brings me back and reinvigorates my passion for why I love RPGs. As a dev, I find your podcast tremendously awesome and informative. Keep it up guys.

I've listened to many videogame podcasts and they seem to be filled with jaded "journalists" who do nothing but discuss the latest publisher funded opinion, while also discounting anything from the country of Japan. These guys are great! They are true fans of the rpg genre and have good discussions about the state of the genre today. Their excitement for games named *gasp* Final Fantasy is welcome. Good podcast. Wish it was on more frequently.

There really needs to be more 'video game bookclub' podcasts out there. This is definitely one of the most entertaining and organized podcasts I have listened to. The people on this podcast have informed opinions and knowledge and is very refreshing to listen to. I would love to be on the show sometime!

Very enjoyable podcast, the hosts are very entertaining and keep making my back log bigger! Keep up the great work.

Even though I haven't played many of the games you mention, I really enjoy your podcast & have bought a few games because of it. Keep up the great work! I listen to Rhythm Encounter too, now, thanks for mentioning it in your show!

A lot of the gaming podcast either lack the humor or depth. I can say this podcast has made my day so many times because of how I could relate to the topics they dive deep into. Essentially, who doesn't want to giggle like a school girl at times or listen to topics that actually spews out good opinions on why they dislike or like a game. I remember vividly on how they didn't like the almighty "Last Story" on the wii & I can actually agree with them even though I didn't shower for a week while I was playing it. (DEDICATION SON!) Though, the single person I always think about when I do get a RANDOM ENCOUNTER in my games is Rob for some odd reason... I honestly was hoping to be the "50th" review, but we all can''t get what we want can we... All in all, a gaming podcast oozing a lot of charm including a good balance of "LOL" and "Seriousness" with Rob as a cherry on top...I think.

Not only is this by far the best RPG centered podcast, but it is one of the best video game podcasts period. The team is passionate, knowledgeable, and extremely entertaining. There is never a dull moment. Random Encounter has it all!

Wonderful podcast. Episodes can run a little long but there is a level of professionalism that I just find completely charming.

I listened to the latest episode (about E3 coverage) and found the hosts to not only be informative, but laid-back and easy to follow too. You can just sense the enthusiasm in the hosts' voices regarding RPGs.

after listening to this show for more than a year i have to say that this show is so moe.