In this episode, Andrew welcomes Phil Barrera from the Wait For It Podcast to dive deep into Assassin’s Creed Shadows. After years of anticipation, the series finally brings us to feudal Japan—and there’s a lot to unpack. The guys break down first impressions of the stunning setting, the introduction of dual protagonists Naoi and Yasuke, and what those new gameplay mechanics really mean for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

They discuss how the game stacks up to other entries in the franchise, offer honest thoughts about the story’s strengths and weaknesses, and weigh in on whether the dual protagonist system actually improves the Assassin’s Creed formula. You’ll also hear a candid chat about world-building, the divisive quest structure, memorable side content (or not), character development, and where Shadows fits into the overall AC RPG lineup.

As always, expect light spoilers (with plenty of warnings), gamer banter, and that average player perspective you know and love. Thinking about picking up the game or wondering if Shadows lives up to the hype? This conversation is for you!

Follow The Wait For It Podcast here - https://linktr.ee/waitforitpodcast

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Welcome back to the Neighborhood! In this Neighborhood Watch episode, Andrew and Dylan catch up on everything they’ve been playing (and thinking about) in this busy gaming season.

Andrew dives deep into indie gem Willow Guard, breaking down its ambitious blend of hack-and-slash combat, deck-building, and choice-driven storytelling—with a healthy dose of badgers and Witcher-meets-Redwall vibes. Dylan gives a spoiler-free overview of Blue Prince, the viral escape-room-meets-roguelike puzzler that has him hooked and jotting down clues in his notes app. The two also chat about the surprise Oblivion remaster drop, comparing it to other recent shadow drops and reflecting on the staying power of classic RPGs.

Stick around as they read out what the Friendly Neighborhood Gamers Discord community has been playing—featuring everything from Witcher 3, Expedition 33, and Ocarina of Time to classic fighting games and even Dragon Quest V.

If you’re looking for laid-back, real-world game talk and a window into what’s hot right now, this episode is for you!

• WEBSITE
  • https://www.fngamers.com/
• DISCORD
  • https://discord.gg/euhEYZxC58
• TWITTER
  • https://twitter.com/F_N_Gamerz
• INSTAGRAM
  • https://www.instagram.com/yourfriendlyneighborhoodgamers/
• YOUTUBE
  • https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgS_YRAM8_PlWNvxrjQshA
• FANTASY CRITIC LEAGUE
  • https://www.fantasycritic.games/league/021e0fef-fd55-4c89-b380-4418c51a7727/2025

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Join Dylan Wren and special guest Dave Jackson from Tales from the Backlog and a Top 3 Podcast for an in-depth, down-to-earth conversation about Capcom’s latest action RPG sensation, Monster Hunter Wilds! Our hosts team up for a wide-ranging breakdown of everything Monster Hunter — from the perspective of a lifelong fan and a series newcomer.

They cover the series’ unique “prep-and-hunt” gameplay loop, the depth of combat, gear grinding, and the surprisingly nuanced evolution of the Monster Hunter formula in Wilds. Hear about first impressions of the open world, new weapon changes, the impact of in-game quality of life improvements, and why the monster battles themselves are the secret sauce behind Monster Hunter’s massive appeal. The duo also weigh in on the narrative side of Wilds: does the beefed-up story add anything, or is it just window dressing for more epic monster showdowns?

Whether you’re an old-school hunter or thinking of jumping in for the first time, this spoiler-light discussion (with a clearly marked story section at the end) is your perfect companion for your next gaming session. Plus, stick around for favorite monster rankings, endgame grind talk, and wishlist items for future updates!

Story Talk Timestamps:

Begins - 1:42:25

Ends - 2:10:01

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https://talesfromthebacklog.fireside.fm/episodes

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• INSTAGRAM
  • https://www.instagram.com/yourfriendlyneighborhoodgamers/
• YOUTUBE
  • https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgS_YRAM8_PlWNvxrjQshA
• FANTASY CRITIC LEAGUE
  • https://www.fantasycritic.games/league/021e0fef-fd55-4c89-b380-4418c51a7727/2025

Support the show