For a very special episode, we’re joined by guest Cameron Kunzelman, former writer of Postscript column for VICE and Co-host Matthew Seiji Burns of Zachtronics, writer behind their recent release Eliza

We deep dive on the Apocalypse in fiction, why it’s so prevalent, and what makes it work or in many cases not work.

Topics:

Post-Apocalyptic narratives

The Subtext of Apocalypse

Narrative design and Agency

Long running time and the creation of intimacy

Creating believable characters and relationships

Knock-on effect, using franchises and built worlds as frameworks for intimacy

Why Indie sequels are rare

Future and flaws of the walking sim identity/genre

Gentrification, Forever Colonialism, Tech startups

Novel: On the Beach by Nevil Shute

Game: First Winter by Dan Sanderson

Theatrical Play: Endgame by Samuel Beckett

Novel: Zone One by Colson Whitehead

Movie: Mad Max (1979)

Movie: The Day After (1983) (Post-Episode Recommendation: Threads (1984)  )

Game: The Occupation by White paper games

Article: Desiring Recognition, Accumulating Affect by Megan Watkins on The Affect Theory Reader 

TV Show: Frasier

Game: Death Crown by CO5MONAUT

Games: Orwell series by Osmotic

Games: Off-Peak, The Norwood Suite and Tales From Off-Peak City Vol. 1 by Cosmo D

Game: Marginalia by Connor Sherlock and Cameron Kunzelman