Altered Geek ®

Latest Episodes:

Avengers Endgame, Arrowverse Elseworlds, and 2019 Geek Dec 28, 2018

Show notes

This episode covers reactions to the Avengers: Endgame trailer and the Arrowverse Elseworlds crossover, specifically discussing the body-swapping dynamics, Batwoman's introduction, and potential implications for future DC series. The conversation also explores how modern reliance on AI assistants impacts traditional research skills and compares blogging in the age of LiveJournal to contemporary social media habits. Finally, the episode addresses the frustration with clickbait in geek culture news and looks ahead to upcoming television events like the 300th episode of Supernatural.

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Chargebacks, Loot Boxes, and Early Internet Video Dec 21, 2018

Show notes

This episode explores the financial risks content creators face with chargebacks on platforms like Twitch and Patreon, where refund fees can quickly mount against streamers. The conversation also dives into the predatory nature of in-game loot boxes, specifically examining their role in mobile gaming and titles like Star Trek Online and Call of Duty. Finally, the hosts look back at the early 2000s internet video landscape, discussing legacy sites like Ebaums World and StupidVideos, as well as the impact of early viral content and the evolution of online fame.

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Reviewing Our 2018 Geek Culture Predictions Dec 14, 2018

Show notes

We look back at our predictions from earlier this year to see what we got right and what we missed. We discuss the Hasbro and Mattel merger, the AT&T and Time Warner deal, and the ongoing state of the DC Universe films. We also touch on the return of 90s television shows, the future of X-Men in the MCU, and the possibility of a new console announcement.

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Detective Pikachu, Chicago Taxes, and Modern Media Revivals Dec 07, 2018

Show notes

The crew discusses the Detective Pikachu trailer, the impact of Chicago's amusement tax on digital entertainment, and their thoughts on various media reboots like Toy Story 4, Fuller House, and the Lethal Weapon television series. They also look at upcoming Star Trek projects, their history with DC Universe Online, and provide a brief preview of Funko Pop collecting.

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New iPads, Foldable Phones, and Diablo Immortal Nov 30, 2018

Show notes

We discuss the impressive performance of the new iPad, the practicality of upcoming foldable smartphone designs, and the controversy surrounding Diablo Immortal. We also touch upon the evolving mobile gaming market and share our thoughts on the Batman: The Animated Series Blu-ray remaster, including a discussion on its production-order episode listing and digital copy quality.

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A Decade of Podcasting Experiences Nov 23, 2018

Show notes

Longtime podcasters discuss the evolution of the medium, the technical challenges of maintaining a podcast network, and the realities of editing and back-catalog management. The conversation covers personal experiences with burnout, the shift from audio to video production, and strategies for maintaining listener engagement. They also reflect on industry changes, including the impact of major media companies and the importance of preserving historical archives.

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Dumb Phones, Media Careers, and Geek Life Goals Nov 16, 2018

Show notes

Steve and Mike discuss the impact of smartphone usage on social interaction and the prospect of returning to older mobile devices. They also compare the evolution of podcasting and traditional radio, sharing their professional experiences and personal career goals within the media industry.

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Smartphone Upgrades, DC Universe and PlayStation Classic Nov 09, 2018

Show notes

The hosts discuss the impact of social media engagement features, the removal of fan community sites from Lucasfilm's web portal, and their frustrations with the DC Universe streaming service app. They also compare hardware preferences for smartphone upgrades and debate the merits of the PlayStation Classic console alongside the evolution of graphical art styles in gaming.

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Marvel Netflix Cancellations and Film Adaptations Discussion Nov 02, 2018

Show notes

The discussion covers recent cancellations of Marvel shows on Netflix, including Iron Fist, Luke Cage, and Daredevil, while examining the character portrayals and casting choices. The conversation also shifts to film adaptations of 80s properties, specifically critiquing the Lethal Weapon TV series and the evolution of Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. They additionally debate the quality of the Police Academy movies and share thoughts on various Spider-Man actors.

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Interview with DJ Valentine on Scripted Podcasting Oct 26, 2018

Show notes

Steve Megatron talks with DJ Valentine about the creative process behind scripted podcasts and comedy sketches, including how sketches are written and performed. The episode also covers Black Friday retail trends, free photo editing software like Paint.net and GIMP, tech news on holographic displays and the Titanic 2 project, superhero updates for Supergirl and Gotham, and discussion of Star Wars, Terminator, and Blade Runner.

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