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 believeable 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
Show Notes
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
Plugs: