Altered Geek ®

Latest Episodes:

Reacting to Captain Marvel Set Photo Overreactions Feb 13, 2018

Show notes

We discuss the online reactions to leaked Captain Marvel set photos and why judging early, out-of-context production material rarely reflects the finished film. We cover how superhero costumes, CGI, and aesthetic choices often shift from set to screen, noting that final projects frequently silence early criticism. We also explore the tendency for fans to rely on comic book accuracy as a standard for live-action adaptations, questioning if that expectation is realistic for modern blockbuster filmmaking.

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Podcast News, Media Revivals, and Rainmaker Critique Feb 09, 2018

Show notes

In this solo episode, the host discusses the development of his new podcast project, The Internet Pathfinder. He shares thoughts on current media trends, including frustration with the lack of transparency regarding the new Reboot series from Rainmaker. He also touches on recent movie trailers, upcoming TV show revivals, and his personal process of liquidating collectibles to fund a custom Star Trek uniform. The episode wraps up with listener feedback regarding customer service experiences and the state of the toy industry.

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Nintendo Labo Concept Review Feb 06, 2018

Show notes

A discussion on Nintendo Labo, exploring how the cardboard-based DIY kits for the Switch function as buildable peripherals. The hosts examine the variety and robot kits, compare the project to legacy gaming peripherals like Wii accessories and plastic instrument controllers, and consider its potential as a hands-on learning tool for children.

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Rise of the TMNT and ReBoot The Guardian Code Discussion Feb 02, 2018

Show notes

Steve and Mike discuss the newly revealed cast and visual designs for Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, including the voice actors, character redesigns, and how this iteration compares to previous TMNT series. The episode also covers concerns about ReBoot: The Guardian Code's troubled production and lack of promotion, along with Steve's recent activities with Starfleet International and home improvement projects.

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Good and Bad Customer Service Experiences Jan 30, 2018

Show notes

Michael and Steve share personal stories about navigating customer service interactions, discussing whether a positive outcome outweighs a frustrating process. They touch on experiences with Domino's, Blockbuster, Comcast, AT&T, and Apple, emphasizing the importance of treating employees with respect to reach a resolution.

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Star Wars Rebels, CW Superhero News, and Toy Collecting Jan 26, 2018

Show notes

This episode covers the latest Star Wars Rebels trailer, TV revivals like Murphy Brown and Charmed, and CW superhero updates including Black Lightning and Wally West on Legends of Tomorrow. There is a discussion on the Super Troopers 2 trailer, the potential for a third Bill and Ted film, and Marvel's Captain Marvel costume reaction. The episode also touches on a potential new Batman Arkham game, the legal dispute between TWiT and Twitter, and personal thoughts on the rising costs and quality issues in the toy collecting community.

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Franchise and Toy Industry Oversaturation Jan 23, 2018

Show notes

The show explores the impact of franchise fatigue on the toy industry, noting how the oversaturation of movie tie-in merchandise is leading to lackluster sales. The hosts discuss how frequent film releases and complex toy lines create confusion for consumers and diminish the uniqueness of individual products. They reflect on the shift from past scarcity models to current mass-production strategies, using examples like Star Wars, Transformers, and Star Trek. Finally, the conversation touches on how rapid product cycles and overlapping licensing deals are altering the collector and consumer landscape.

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CES 2018, Star Trek Online, and Dragon Ball Super Jan 19, 2018

Show notes

Steve explores the latest gadgets from CES 2018, including wireless battery technology and futuristic TVs, while sharing his experiences with Star Trek Online's anniversary events and his journey through the Starfleet International Academy. He also reflects on the end of Dragon Ball Super, discusses the frustration of forced Windows 10 updates, and shares his thoughts on the current state of comic book and superhero movie news.

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Podcasting Trends, Superhero Courses, and Tech News Jan 12, 2018

Show notes

This episode covers a variety of topics, including personal health experiments with fasting, the Smithsonian's upcoming philosophy and superheroes course, and details on Weird Al Yankovic's upcoming tour. Discussion also touches on the state of modern podcasting, the upcoming ABC sitcom Alex Inc., Pandora's efforts to monetize podcasts, and various pieces of tech news, including Razer's battery-free mouse. Additionally, the episode explores historical tech milestones, including the Y2K bug and the origins of the internet.

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Video Game Magazines Transitioning to Podcast Formats Jan 11, 2018

Show notes

The hosts discuss the shift of classic gaming publications like Nintendo Power into the podcast space and the evolution of media consumption. They reflect on the legacy of 1UP and the 2009 staff exodus that influenced their personal podcast listening habits. The conversation covers the importance of familiar editorial voices in gaming media and whether digital revivals can capture the spirit of physical magazines. The hosts also share their thoughts on the Nintendo Switch and the role of nostalgia in modern gaming.

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