The Rookie Run Video Game Podcast

The Rookie Run
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Video Games

Good Morning, Good Afternoon, Good evening, Wherever you are, welcome to The Rookie Run, A video game podcast that pairs a rookie, discovering a game for the first time, with a veteran returning to see how it all holds up. On this podcast we aim to compare the new player experience of the Rookie to the tried and tested opinions held by the veteran, appreciate video games, and introduce people to new potential favorites.

Episodes

  1. 5d ago

    Spec Ops: The Line (with Adam - Spectre Approved) | The Rookie Run #6

    Joining for the first time today is Adam, from Spectre Approved, as the Rookie. What begins as a routine rescue mission into a sandstorm-ravaged Dubai quickly unravels into a psychological descent unlike anything else in the genre. Together, we explore why Yager Development's 2012 cult classic continues to be discussed more than a decade after release—and whether it deserves its reputation as one of gaming's greatest narratives. In this episode, we discuss: Why Spec Ops: The Line shocked players on releaseAdam's Rookie impressions playing the game for the very first timeThe haunting story of Captain Martin Walker and Delta ForceThe moral choices, controversial moments, and unforgettable twistsDubai as both a setting and a storytelling deviceCombat mechanics, presentation, sound design, and atmosphereThe game's themes of war, PTSD, guilt, and player responsibilityWhether Spec Ops: The Line still holds up in 2026Originally released in 2012, Spec Ops: The Line takes the familiar military shooter formula and completely turns it on its head. Beneath its cover-based gunplay lies one of gaming's most thought-provoking stories, forcing players to question heroism, violence, and the role they play in interactive storytelling. We break down every major moment, discuss what still works today, and examine why the game has become a modern cult classic. If you're a fan of: Spec Ops: The LineMilitary shootersStory-driven gamesPsychological thrillersNarrative-focused video gamesThird-person shootersDeep game analysisGaming retrospectivesVideo game podcasts...then this episode is for you. The Rookie Run: https://linktr.ee/therookierunpod Check out Spectre Approved: https://redcircle.com/shows/spectre-approved Keywords: Spec Ops The Line podcast, Spec Ops The Line review, Spec Ops The Line ending explained, Yager Development, 2K Games, Captain Walker, Delta Force, Dubai, psychological horror games, military shooter, story analysis, gaming podcast, video game retrospective, cult classic games, Rookie Run Podcast.

    Spec Ops: The Line (with Adam - Spectre Approved) | The Rookie Run #6

  2. Jun 30

    Control (with Matt Aka Stormaggedon - "Fun" and Games & Reignite) | The Rookie Run #5

    Joining for the first time today is Matt, aka Stormaggedon, as they guide Lewbop through the twisting, mysterious world of Control, Remedy Entertainment's acclaimed supernatural action-adventure. In this episode, we discuss: What makes Control one of the most unique games of its generationMatt's Veteran impressions and favourite moments throughout the journeyThe strange world of the Federal Bureau of Control (FBC) and the Oldest HouseJesse Faden's story, paranormal abilities, and unforgettable boss encountersHow Control's gameplay, atmosphere, and worldbuilding hold up years after releaseWhether Control is still worth playing in 2026 and our thoughts on the upcoming sequel Control: Resonant Originally released in 2019 by Remedy Entertainment, Control combines fast-paced third-person action with mind-bending supernatural storytelling. From shifting architecture and telekinetic combat to cryptic lore and memorable characters, we break down what makes this modern classic such a standout experience—and why it continues to attract new players years later. If you're a fan of: ControlRemedy EntertainmentAlan WakeStory-driven gamesThird-person action gamesSci-fi and supernatural adventuresGaming retrospectivesVideo game podcasts...then this episode is for you. Check out all of Matt's work: https://linktr.ee/dj_stormagedddon Check out The Rookie Run social media: https://linktr.ee/therookierunpod

    Control (with Matt Aka Stormaggedon - "Fun" and Games & Reignite) | The Rookie Run #5

  3. Jun 27

    Reanimal | The Bonus Run #1

    Welcome to the very first Bonus Run, a brand-new series from The Rookie Run! In these bonus episodes, the hosts dive into the latest and greatest games that haven't yet earned a Veteran review. For this debut episode, Lewbop goes solo to share his first impressions of Reanimal. From its unsettling atmosphere and striking art style to its gameplay and scares, breaking down what makes this horror adventure so intriguing and whether it's one to keep on your radar. If you're a fan of indie horror games, first impressions, gaming podcasts, and discovering exciting new releases, this episode is for you. Topics covered: Reanimal first impressionsHorror game gameplay and atmosphereThe Rookie Run Bonus Run series Social media: https://linktr.ee/therookierunpod

    Reanimal | The Bonus Run #1

  4. Jun 16

    Max Payne (with producedbycos) | The Rookie Run #4

    Returning for Episode 4 is producedbycos as we revisit Max Payne, Remedy Entertainment's iconic noir action shooter that redefined cinematic storytelling in video games. In this episode, we discuss: • The tragic story of Max Payne and his quest for revenge • How the game's noir atmosphere and narration still hold up today • The introduction of Bullet Time and its impact on gaming • Our favourite levels, shoot-outs, and memorable moments • Whether Max Payne is still worth playing in 2026 Originally released in 2001, Max Payne combined hard-boiled detective storytelling with groundbreaking action mechanics to create one of the most influential shooters of its era. We break down what made the game a classic and why it continues to be remembered more than two decades later. If you're a fan of: • Max Payne • Remedy Entertainment • Third-person shooters • Noir stories • Gaming retrospectives • Video game podcasts then this episode is for you. Social Media⁠ Links: https://linktr.ee/therookierunpod⁠

    Max Payne (with producedbycos) | The Rookie Run #4

  5. Jun 1

    Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare (with producedbycos) | The Rookie Run #3

    Returning for Episode 3 is @producedbycos as we revisit Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare, the legendary zombie-themed expansion to Rockstar Games' classic Western. In this episode, we discuss: • The story of Undead Nightmare and its supernatural take on the Wild West • Who was the true rookie during our playthrough? • How the gameplay holds up years after release • The zombies, side missions, and memorable moments that made the DLC a cult classic • Whether Undead Nightmare is still worth playing in 2026 Originally released as an expansion for Red Dead Redemption, Undead Nightmare transformed the frontier into a horror-filled world of zombies, mythical creatures, and survival challenges. We break down what made the DLC special and why it remains one of the most beloved expansions in gaming history. If you're a fan of: Red Dead RedemptionRockstar GamesOpen-world gamesZombie gamesGaming retrospectivesVideo game podcaststhen this episode is for you. Social Media Links: https://linktr.ee/therookierunpod

    Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare (with producedbycos) | The Rookie Run #3

  6. May 19

    Silent Hill 4: The Room (with Chris Taylor - Lightning Strikes Thrice) | The Rookie Run #2

    Joining us for this episode is Chris Taylor from Lightning Strikes Thrice as we take a deep dive into Silent Hill 4: The Room, the final Silent Hill title developed by the legendary Team Silent. Often considered one of the most divisive entries in the franchise, Silent Hill 4 introduced major changes to the series formula while maintaining the psychological horror, disturbing atmosphere, and symbolism that made Silent Hill a survival horror classic. In this episode, we discuss: • Why Silent Hill 4 feels different from previous Team Silent games • The story of Henry Townshend and Room 302 • The game's themes, symbolism, and psychological horror • How the combat and gameplay mechanics compare to earlier Silent Hill titles • Chris' veteran perspective versus my Rookie experience • Whether Silent Hill 4 deserves a reevaluation among horror fans Released in 2004, Silent Hill 4: The Room remains one of the most unique entries in the franchise. From its haunting apartment setting to its unforgettable villains and surreal storytelling, we explore what worked, what didn't, and why fans still debate its place in the series today. If you enjoy discussions about: • Silent Hill • Team Silent • Survival horror games • Horror game retrospectives • Psychological horror • Video game history then this episode is for you. Check out Chris Taylor and Lightning Strikes Thrice: Lightning Strikes Thrice Social Media: https://linktr.ee/therookierunpod

  7. May 19

    E.Y.E: Divine Cybermancy (with producedbycos) | The Rookie Run #1

    In this episode, we’re joined by @producedbycos to talk about E.Y.E: Divine Cybermancy, the cult classic cyberpunk action RPG first-person shooter developed in Valve’s Source engine. We break down everything you need to know about E.Y.E: Divine Cybermancy—a deeply complex and chaotic FPS RPG inspired by an unreleased tabletop role-playing game. Known for its ambitious systems, dense lore, and infamous “jank,” the game has built a strong cult following among fans of hardcore cyberpunk shooters and experimental indie games. If you’re searching for podcasts about E.Y.E Divine Cybermancy explained, Source engine cult games, cyberpunk FPS RPGs, or hidden gem video games, this episode explores why this title is both frustrating and fascinating in equal measure. Topics include: E.Y.E: Divine Cybermancy gameplay and mechanicsCyberpunk RPG storytelling and worldbuildingWhy the game is considered “janky but genius”Cult status and community receptionIts origins as a tabletop RPG adaptationPerfect for fans of immersive sims, retro Source engine games, and obscure cult classics in gaming history. Social Media: https://linktr.ee/therookierunpod

  • 7 Episodes

About

Good Morning, Good Afternoon, Good evening, Wherever you are, welcome to The Rookie Run, A video game podcast that pairs a rookie, discovering a game for the first time, with a veteran returning to see how it all holds up. On this podcast we aim to compare the new player experience of the Rookie to the tried and tested opinions held by the veteran, appreciate video games, and introduce people to new potential favorites.

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