What is The Commune?
We're a group of gamers, and we're always looking for new gamers to join us. Every month or so, we pick a game to play. We chat about the game together, and we record podcasts, record videos, and write essays. You can reach The Commune in the following ways: As for me, I'm Greg Livingston, but I go by Golem. I organize things around here.

Podcasts

Viewing all podcasts for Zanreo.

Control Challenges (StarTropics)
Sep 17, 2016
StarTropics challenges the player with stiff but simple controls.
Sound Design (Intermission)
May 23, 2016
Video games use sound and music in many unique ways, from gameplay backup to mood setting and more.
Interesting Choices
Mar 22, 2016
In Undertale, is the choice between peace and war interesting?
Mood Management
Dec 18, 2015
Long Live the Queen revolves around managing Princess Elodie's state of mind. How do you prioritize each state, and how do you learn what's useful?
Episode 49: Ink
Aug 28, 2015
Splatoon's ink system promotes an indirect sense of interplay--instead of just shooting at each other, you can also shoot at something between the two of you.
Episode 48: Interpreting the Environment
Aug 22, 2015
Aren't you glad I didn't call it "Ink-terpreting the Environment"?
Episode 43: Puzzle Curve
Jun 2, 2015
Puzzle games depend heavily on the player's ability to learn. What impact does BOXBOY!'s structure have on this learning process?
Episode 35: Dynamic Challenge
Nov 29, 2014
Wave Race 64 plots its race courses on waterways full of bouncing water. How does it use water to create novel challenges?
Episode 34: Timed Exploration
Nov 9, 2014
The Firemen features plenty of space to explore, but slaps players with a time limit. How do you balance between looking around and getting through quickly?
Episode 32: Out of the Frying Pan
Oct 28, 2014
Just when you thought the coast was clear, a new fire spawns in just the wrong place. How does enemy design in The Firemen trap you?
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