The Secret of Monkey Island - Pirate Point-and-Click Perfection

In our third full episode of Cartridge Chronicles, we set sail for adventure with The Secret of Monkey Island! This 1990 classic from Lucasfilm Games defined the point-and-click adventure genre with its witty humor, quirky puzzles, and unforgettable characters. We dive into the game's development, the creative minds behind it—including Ron Gilbert, Tim Schafer, and Dave Grossman—and the legendary SCUMM engine that shaped a generation of adventure games.

Join us as we navigate insult sword fighting, explore the iconic Melee Island, and reminisce about the game's lasting impact on gaming culture.

Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering this classic for the first time, this episode is packed with pirate lore, nostalgic storytelling, and a whole lot of fun.

Battle Clash - Mech Mayhem and the Super Scope Saga
Welcome to the second full episode of Cartridge Chronicles! This time, we’re diving into the high-octane world of Battle Clash. Released in 1992 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, this groundbreaking mech-based boss battle game showcased the innovative capabilities of the Super Scope light gun. Join us as we explore the game’s development by Intelligent Systems, its anime-inspired art style, and the intense gameplay that made it a standout title of its era.

We’ll share personal stories of immersive gameplay, nostalgic memories of light gun gaming, and discuss Battle Clash's place in gaming history. Whether you’re a die-hard retro fan or discovering the classics for the first time, this episode is packed with fun insights, laughs, and a celebration of gaming’s golden age.

Don’t miss this Super Scope Saga and the mech mayhem of Battle Clash!

Ristar - Sega's Forgotten Star
In the inaugural episode of Cartridge Chronicles, hosts Jeff and PJ dive into the vibrant world of Sega's 1995 platformer, Ristar. Explore the fascinating history behind this hidden gem, its connection to the Sonic team, and the innovative gameplay mechanics that made it stand out in an era dominated by 2D platformers. Jeff shares his personal nostalgia for the game and discusses how the Game Gear and Genesis versions differ in surprising ways. Meanwhile, PJ brings a fresh perspective as a first-time player.

The duo also reflects on why Ristar may have been overshadowed in its time, Sega's approach to save systems, and its eventual cult status among retro gaming enthusiasts. Plus, stick around as Jeff and PJ share what they're currently playing and tease the next episode featuring a classic Super Nintendo game with a unique peripheral.

Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to retro, this episode is packed with passion, trivia, and a love for the games that shaped an era. Tune in and relive the magic of Ristar!

Welcome to the debut of Cartridge Chronicles!

In this short and sweet prologue, hosts Jeff and PJ introduce themselves and share their passion for retro gaming. From Jeff’s early DOS adventures to PJ’s nostalgic Nintendo beginnings, they reflect on decades of gaming history. Discover how Cartridge Chronicles is more than just a gaming podcast—it's a celebration of the creativity, stories, and personal memories tied to the games we love.

The duo teases upcoming episodes featuring Ristar and Battle Clash, promising a mix of deep dives into game development, personal connections, and fresh perspectives on classics. Whether you’re here for the nostalgia or to learn the behind-the-scenes tales of gaming's golden era, this is your first checkpoint in an exciting adventure.

Grab your controllers and join us for the journey. Our inaugural episode about Ristar for the Sega Genesis drops soon!