Skip to main content
Spotify for Podcasters
Checkpoint Chat

Checkpoint Chat

By Checkpoint Chat

Checkpoint Chat is an invitation to an all new gaming conversation. Hosted by seasoned writers Alessandro Barbosa (Gamespot, Critical Hit) and Matthew Figueira (Critical Hit), indulge yourself in discussion about games being played right now, weekly news and conversations with you, a listener.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Castbox Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
Overcast Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Episode 234 - Electric Hands

Checkpoint ChatSep 25, 2023

00:00
01:22:21
Episode 234 - Electric Hands

Episode 234 - Electric Hands

This week on Checkpoint Chat, khaos ensues as the kombatants of Mortal Kombat 1 reconvene for another outlandish tale, Cyberpunk 2077 and its 2.0 update make a strong first impression, and Microsoft is planning what for their next console? Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat Want to listen to more gaming goodness, on other platforms? Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, and more right here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/checkpointchat -- SHOW NOTES -- 00:00:00​ - Kitchens for ants and stomach bug superpowers 00:10:59 - Mortal Kombat 1 is cheesy goodness 00:28:29 - Cyberpunk 2.0 is REAL pretty 00:40:08 - Games out this week 00:43:14 - All the latest gaming news 01:15:15 - Your lovely listener questions (JK we talk password management) #gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews

Sep 25, 202301:22:21
Episode 233 - Amazon Kettles

Episode 233 - Amazon Kettles

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we continue our adventures in the great unknown with loads more talk about Starfield, while Matthew has taken a wrong turn into the world of gatcha and Final Fantasy in Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat Want to listen to more gaming goodness, on other platforms? Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, and more right here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/checkpointchat -- SHOW NOTES -- 00:00:00​ - Smart kettles and hot PCs 00:14:09 - Starfield still has our attention 00:35:20 - Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis is... gatcha central 00:47:38 - Games out this week 00:52:07 - All the latest gaming news 01:15:05 - Your lovely listener questions #gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews

Sep 11, 202301:27:24
Episode 232 - Painting the Sistine Chapel

Episode 232 - Painting the Sistine Chapel

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we venture into the vast unknown with initial impressions of Bethesda's latest IP, Starfield. Then, Matthew has finally finished Final Fantasy XVI, so we dive deep into the game's many highs and few lows in a spoiler-filled review. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat -- SHOW NOTES -- 00:00:00​ - Podcast production gone wrong (INSTANT RESULTS) 00:12:05 - We've barely scratched the surface of Starfield 00:31:32 - But we have played the heck out of Final Fantasy XVI 00:50:12 - Games out this week 00:52:59 - All the latest gaming news 01:20:55 - Your lovely listener questions #gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews

Sep 04, 202301:33:26
Episode 231 - Lube Your Spacebar

Episode 231 - Lube Your Spacebar

This week on Checkpoint Chat we're taking stock on the massive games still set to release in 2023, including Starfield, Alan Wake 2, Spider-Man 2, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Forza Motorsport, Mortal Kombat 1, and many more. Which ones are going to live up to the hype and which are going to disappoint? Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat -- SHOW NOTES -- 00:00:00​ - We never cheat on Franco's pizza! 00:18:13 - We also don't play games apparently00:19:42 - But we do talk about them! 00:59:24 - All the latest gaming news 01:37:28 - Your lovely listener questions #gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews

Aug 28, 202301:48:09
Episode 230 - Irresponsible Fishing Device

Episode 230 - Irresponsible Fishing Device

This week on Checkpoint Chat, releases are still stagnant so how's about even more progress in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom? Also, Modern Warfare 3 wants you to remember No Russian, Zelda's blood moon has a secret purpose, and how many Smurfs can you name? Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat -- SHOW NOTES -- 00:00:00​ - Maths is hard (and a successful PC build) 00:21:54 - Tears of the Kingdom STILL has us hooked 00:46:39 - Games out this week 00:54:02 - All the latest gaming news 01:17:55 - Your lovely listener questions (spoiler: there are none) #gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

Aug 21, 202301:32:47
Episode 229 - Live, Laugh, Link

Episode 229 - Live, Laugh, Link

This week on Checkpoint Chat, the trials and tribulations of Link and Clive continue with check-ins on The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Final Fantasy XVI. Also, there's a PS5 Slim coming soon and people are making their own turtles? Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat -- SHOW NOTES -- 00:00:00​ - Fan directions and the voids they can create

00:12:31 - Tears of the Kingdom finally has Sandy

00:27:20 - Final Fantasy XVI goes full anime

00:36:38 - A teeny tiny taste of Assassin's Creed Jade

00:38:54 - Games out this week

00:43:44 - All the latest gaming news

01:08:10 - Your lovely listener questions (spoiler: there are none) #gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

Aug 14, 202301:09:59
Episode 228 - A PC For Ants

Episode 228 - A PC For Ants

Checkpoint Chat is finally back! After nearly two months away, we're bursting to chat about Final Fantasy XVI, Viewfinder, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Aliens: Dark Descent, and so much more. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat -- SHOW NOTES -- 00:00:00​ - Surviving British probation (no accents here) 00:09:42 - Our (late) review of Final Fantasy XVI 00:34:12 - Other bits and pieces of what we've played 00:47:10 - The one game out this week 00:48:41 - Your lovely listener questions #gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

Aug 07, 202301:16:50
Episode 227 - Sheep With Guns

Episode 227 - Sheep With Guns

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we are getting strong Bloodborne vibes from the Lies of P demo, Diablo IV is absolutely amazing on Steam Deck, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is overwhelming, and Keigh3 was a pretty fantastic showing.


Follow Checkpoint Chat on...

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat


Want to listen to more gaming goodness, on other platforms? Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, and more right here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/checkpointchat


-- SHOW NOTES --

00:00:00​ - The last supper... FOR NOW

00:07:25 - The Lies of P demo is a great taste of what's to come

00:23:26 - Diablo IV on Steam Deck is a good time

00:29:25 - Tears of the Kingdom and giving games time to shine

00:42:19 - Games out this week

00:44:48 - The latest gaming news

01:29:45 - Listener questions


#gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

Jun 12, 202301:36:47
Episode 226 - Reverso

Episode 226 - Reverso

This week on Checkpoint Chat, it's all Diablo IV and Street Fighter 6 again but this time from the reverse perspectives as last time out. Are both big releases stacking up to their hype?


Follow Checkpoint Chat on...

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat


Want to listen to more gaming goodness, on other platforms? Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, and more right here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/checkpointchat


-- SHOW NOTES --

00:00:00​ - Short term memory and dethawing chickens

00:10:40 - A reverse Diablo IV discussion

00:24:28 - And the same for Street Fighter 6

00:35:15 - Games out this week

00:38:57 - The latest gaming news

01:07:42 - A lost listener question (RIP)


#gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

Jun 05, 202301:11:03
Episode 225 - Linkquid Snake

Episode 225 - Linkquid Snake

This week on Checkpoint Chat new games are bursting out of the seams with Street Fighter 6 proving to be the return to form we all hoped for and Diablo IV delivering an incredible story and action role-playing experience from the get go this time.


Follow Checkpoint Chat on...

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat


-- SHOW NOTES --

00:00:00​ - Literally the weird weather and cool press kits

00:08:45 - A sneaky Street Fighter 6 review

00:28:41 - And a surprise Diablo IV review

00:49:02 - Where do people find the time to play Tears of the Kingdom?

00:53:06 - Games out this week

00:55:15 - The latest gaming news

01:33:45 - Listener questions


#gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

May 30, 202301:36:09
Episode 224 - Kindle Papercuts

Episode 224 - Kindle Papercuts

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we're neck deep in the enchanting world of Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Mortal Kombat is getting yet another reboot, and Overwatch 2 is dealt an almost fatal blow.


Follow Checkpoint Chat on...

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat


Want to listen to more gaming goodness, on other platforms? Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, and more right here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/checkpointchat


-- SHOW NOTES --

00:00:00​ - Papercuts from Kindles are deadly 00:05:28 - Matty is leaving us! (for now) 00:13:43 - We are absolutely hooked on Tears of the Kingdom 00:37:12 - Games out this week 00:43:27 - The latest gaming news 01:05:25 - Listener questions


#gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

May 22, 202301:08:42
Episode 223 - Fusion Dance

Episode 223 - Fusion Dance

This week on Checkpoint Chat, one of the biggest games of the year is here as we take a look at the opening hours of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Star Wars Jedi Survivor is shaping up as a perfect sequel, and Advanced Wars still retains its engrossing charm after all these years.


Follow Checkpoint Chat on...

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat


-- SHOW NOTES --

00:00:00​ - Matty has weather-predicting hands 00:07:48 - The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is here at last! 00:20:28 - Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is a fantastic game (with issues) 00:37:41 - We finished Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot Camp! 00:46:15 - Games out this week 00:49:56 - The latest gaming news 01:16:57 - Your lovely listener questions


#gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

May 15, 202301:36:40
Episode 222 - Crazy Beans

Episode 222 - Crazy Beans

This week on Checkpoint Chat, war goes mobile with the re-introduction of Advance Wars on Nintendo Switch, Horizon Forbidden West's Burning Shores DLC makes a good case for the future of the series, and Resident Evil 4 Remake is a stone-cold classic. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat Want to listen to more gaming goodness, on other platforms? Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, and more right here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/checkpointchat -- SHOW NOTES -- 00:00:00​ - F bombs and kids these days 00:13:33 - Sandy finally finished Resident Evil 4 Remake 00:26:15 - Advance Wars 1 + 2: Re-Boot Camp is strategic addiction 00:37:18 - Matty finished Horizon Forbidden West's Burning Shores DLC 00:48:32 - Games out this week 00:51:03 - The latest gaming news 01:24:05 - No listener questions #gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

May 01, 202301:28:03
Episode 221 - Cup Board

Episode 221 - Cup Board

This week on Checkpoint Chat, Los Angeles is entirely underwater as Aloy continues her bid to save the world in Horizon Forbidden West: The Burning Shores, Samus Aran is puzzling around pirates in Metroid Prime Remaster, and the blocks required a little more thought this time in this RTS spin-off Minecraft Legends.


Follow Checkpoint Chat on...

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat


-- SHOW NOTES --

00:00:00​ - Producing is hard 00:09:16 - The Metroid Prime Remaster is real good 00:20:15 - We forgot how to play Horizon Forbidden West (but Burning Shores looks fantastic) 00:29:48 - Minecraft Legends is a strange (yet fun) RTS 00:42:35 - Games out this week 00:51:35 - The latest gaming news 01:16:33 - Listener questions!


#gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

Apr 24, 202301:25:07
Episode 220 - Chibi Steroids

Episode 220 - Chibi Steroids

This week on Checkpoint Chat, Doom Slayer is so cute and small but still ready to rev that chainsaw in Mighty Doom, things aren't so great with The Last of Us Part I on PC right now, and Resident Evil 4 continues to serve up the right amount of engrossing action and grin-inducing cheese. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat Want to listen to more gaming goodness, on other platforms? Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, and more right here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/checkpointchat -- SHOW NOTES -- 00:00:00​ - The evolution of the Internet 00:09:15 - The Resident Evil 4 remains fantastic 00:17:26 - The Last of Us Part I PC port is a hot mess 00:29:40 - Mighty Doom is a mobile gem 00:36:16 - Games out this week 00:40:58 - The latest gaming news 01:17:35 - Matty didn't ask for questions so he's fired #gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

Apr 10, 202301:21:02
Episode 219 - Viva Las Plagas

Episode 219 - Viva Las Plagas

This week on Checkpoint Chat, Leon's here and suplexes are back on the menu in Resident Evil 4 Remake, Bayonetta takes a turn for the cute in Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon, and is E3 well and truly dead this time? Probably. Remember, we're running a two-week giveaway with Gigabyte South Africa where one lucky listener will walk away with a stunning Aorus Waterforce X 240 All-In-One Cooler to take your gaming PC to the next level. Check out all the many ways to enter here: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/WinCpuCooler⁠⁠ Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat -- SHOW NOTES -- 00:00:00​ - Big head mode enabled 00:07:20 - The Resident Evil 4 Remake is deliciously good 00:33:08 - Bayonetta Origins is unexpected and enchanting 00:44:09 - Games out this week 00:47:40 - The latest gaming news 01:17:01 - Listener questions (we actually answered them!) #gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

Apr 03, 202301:30:44
Episode 218 - Dust Too

Episode 218 - Dust Too

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we take to the seas and uncover the horrors underneath the waves in Dredge, turns out no one really can hear you scream in Dead Space, and Dead Cells continues to be the roguelite to beat with its new Castlevania expansion.

We're running a two-week giveaway with Gigabyte South Africa where one lucky listener will walk away with a stunning Aorus Waterforce X 240 All-In-One Cooler to take your gaming PC to the next level. Check out all the many ways to enter here: ⁠https://bit.ly/WinCpuCooler


Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat


-- SHOW NOTES --   

00:00:00​ - A speedy introduction and a neat Gigabyte competition

00:11:06 - Dredge is a Bloodbornesque fishing game (that we enjoyed)

00:21:44 - Dead Cells: Return to Castlevania is a fantastic DLC

00:32:04 - The Dead Space remake is also real good

00:42:23 - Games out this week

00:46:03 - The latest gaming news

01:12:37 - Listener questions (sorry, we ran out of time)


#gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

Mar 27, 202301:15:48
Episode 217 - Baby Face

Episode 217 - Baby Face

This week on Checkpoint Chat, no cows are safe in an early look at Resident Evil 4 Remake, space is still creepy in the Dead Space remake, and Cereza is tiny in Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon.  

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Want to listen to more gaming goodness, on other platforms? Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, and more right here: https://anchor.fm/checkpointchat

-- SHOW NOTES --   

00:00:00​ - Shaving advice  
00:13:30 - We're playing Dead Space (finally)
00:26:23 - Resident Evil 4's Chainsaw Demo is a great taste test
00:38:34 - Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon's demo is neat too
00:49:55 - Games out this week  
00:51:22 - The latest gaming news  
01:14:45 - Listener questions  

#gamingpodcast #gaming #gamingreview #gamingnews #gamingpodcast

Mar 13, 202301:31:50
Episode 216 - Wo Long Tea

Episode 216 - Wo Long Tea

This week on Checkpoint Chat, controller's get sweaty as Team Ninja's latest starts stressing our abilities in Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, Atomic Heart is a fun game with a truly awful story, and DID YOU HEAR ABOUT ELDEN RING DLC?  

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

-- SHOW NOTES --   

00:00:00- Adulting, inverting, Eminem NFTs, and sickness
00:15:12 - Atomic Heart's story is actual nonsense
00:32:03 - Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty feels real good so far!
00:48:11 - Games out this week  
00:51:22 - The latest gaming news  
01:20:19 - Listener questions

Mar 06, 202301:35:39
Episode 215 - Russian Bear

Episode 215 - Russian Bear

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we're still enjoying our travels back in time to a technologically advanced USSR in Atomic Heart, we've played around with the DualSense Edge for a month and think it's pretty great, and Suicide Squad is looking a bit strange right?

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

-- SHOW NOTES --   

00:00:00​ - The Last of Us show slaps real hard
00:07:02 - We've finished Atomic Heart!
00:26:10 - Our final review of the DualSense Edge
00:35:45 - Games out this week  
00:39:33 - The latest gaming news  
01:04:05 - Listener questions

Feb 27, 202301:08:28
Episode 214 - Padel Heart

Episode 214 - Padel Heart

This week on Checkpoint Chat we're deep in the Soviet Union fighting rebellious robots in Atomic Heart, the magic had faded fast in Hogwarts Legacy, and Padel has an MMR system now?

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...    

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat ​​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat   

-- SHOW NOTES --     

00:00:00​ - Eskom (of course) and padel   
00:09:38 - We're playing Atomic Heart!  
00:24:55 - Our final review of Hogwarts Legacy  
00:48:45 - Games out this week   
00:56:40 - The latest gaming news   
01:18:33 - Listener questions

Feb 20, 202301:34:11
Episode 213 - Kick It

Episode 213 - Kick It

This week on Checkpoint Chat, magic is burst at the seams with looks at both Forspoken and Hogwarts Legacy, but not before we dive into the rhythmic GOTY contender, Hi-Fi Rush.

Feb 13, 202301:29:20
Episode 212 - Less Big

Episode 212 - Less Big

This week on Checkpoint Chat there's a whole bunch of games new and old to get through, including Hi-Fi Rush, Forspoken, Final Fantasy Crisis Core: Reunion and...a new PlayStation controller?

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...    

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

-- SHOW NOTES --   

00:00:00 - Editing tomfoolery and padel tennis
00:12:32 - Hi-Fi Rush is a lovely surprise
00:25:34 - It's early days for us and Forspoken
00:35:07 - The DualSense Edge feels real nice (thus far)!
00:43:47 - Our Crisis Core –Final Fantasy VII– Reunion review
00:55:25 - Games out this week 00:58:19 - The latest gaming news
01:23:20 - Listener questions  

Jan 30, 202301:40:59
Episode 211 - Bearded Dragons

Episode 211 - Bearded Dragons

Checkpoint Chat is back for 2023 (finally), and we've brought along a menagerie of games we played over the break including Signalis, Final Fantasy Crisis Core Reunion, Darks Souls I & II, Immortality, The Witcher 3, and more.

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...      

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat  
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat  

-- SHOW NOTES --     

00:00:00- HAPPY (LATE) NEW YEAR!
00:15:51 - We finished Signalis
00:26:26 - Immortality is a must play "game"
00:39:56 - Crisis Core is goofy but we love it
00:47:17 - Wind's still howling in Witcher 3 (now with pretty graphics)
00:48:45 - We went back in time to play Dark Souls 1...
00:52:53 - ... AND Dark Souls 2!
00:56:26 - Games out this week
01:01:25 - The latest gaming news
01:25:02 - Listener questions

Jan 23, 202301:34:52
Episode 210 - Game of the Year 2022

Episode 210 - Game of the Year 2022

This week on Checkpoint Chat it's all about Game of the Year 2022! Join us for our personal Top 5 games lists, consisting of some expected favourites and complete outliers to round off a great year in gaming.  

-- SHOW NOTES --   

00:00:00​ - Staying hydrated is important!
00:10:23 - Matty's honourable mentions
00:15:16 - Sandy's honourable mentions
00:20:40 - Matty's #5 (Fortnite)
00:23:38 - Sandy's #5 (Hyper Demon)
00:25:47 - Matty's #4 (Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak)
00:28:52 - Sandy's #4 (God of War Ragnarök)  
00:31:45 - Matty's #3 (God of War Ragnarök)  
00:35:28 - Sandy's #3 (Marvel Snap)
00:41:46 - Matty's #2 (Tunic)
00:47:59 - Sandy's #2 (Elden Ring)
00:52:30 - Matty's #1 (Elden Ring)
00:58:10 - Sandy's #1 (Tunic)
01:05:40 - Listener GOTYs  

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Dec 12, 202201:13:21
Episode 209 - Sun's Out, Guns Out

Episode 209 - Sun's Out, Guns Out

This week on Checkpoint Chat, it's awards season so we try and predict all 31 winners of this year's Game Awards ahead of the show. Who will come out on top between Elden Ring, God of War Ragnarök, Tunic, Stray, Xenoblade Chronicles 3, and many, many more?

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...    

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

-- SHOW NOTES --   

00:00:00 - What happened to Hagrid's face?
00:10:45 - Our Game Award predictions!
01:07:10 - Listener questions  

Dec 05, 202201:16:48
Episode 208 - Galloping Motorbike

Episode 208 - Galloping Motorbike

This week on a stacked episode of Checkpoint Chat, we touch on God of War Ragnarok, Spider-Man: Miles Morales on PC, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Sonic Frontiers, and Vampire Survivors. That's a lot of pixels.

---- SHOW NOTES -----     

00:00:00 - End of year fatigue and bedtime gaming
00:14:16 - Sandy is nearly done with God of War Ragnarok
00:22:39 - Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales looks fantastic on PC
00:25:47 - Sonic Frontiers has issues, but it's still a good time!
00:37:40 - We're catching them all in Pokémon Scarlet
00:50:03 - Help we're addicted to Vampire Survivors
00:58:11 - Games out this week (26 November - 2 December)
01:04:08 - This week in gaming news
01:26:45 - Listener questions    

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...    

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Nov 28, 202201:43:27
Episode 207 - Emotional Pellet

Episode 207 - Emotional Pellet

This week on Checkpoint Chat the new games keep rolling in with Bayonetta 3 and Sonic Frontiers taking up our attention this time. We're also still hopelessly engrossed in Marvel Snap somebody help.

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00 - Smart homes aren't always THAT smart
00:12:35 - Bayonetta 3 is pretty bonkers
00:24:54 - We can't stop playing Marvel Snap!
00:32:13 - Sonic Frontiers is a pleasant surprise (thus far)
00:44:54 - Games out this week (12 - 18 November)
00:54:05 - This week in gaming news
01:16:24 - Listener questions  

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat


Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Nov 14, 202201:29:54
Episode 206 - Brother

Episode 206 - Brother

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we've collectively pours dozens of hours into God of War Ragnarök and weigh in on the highly anticipated sequel, cards are still being snapped in Marvel Snap, and PSVR 2 costs how much?

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Password keeping and the metaverse
00:13:25 - A sneaky God of War Ragnarök review
00:45:04 - We're still hopelessly addicted to Marvel Snap
00:50:45 - Games out this week (5 - 11 November)
00:58:12 - This week in gaming news
01:24:35 - Listener questions

Nov 07, 202201:36:38
Episode 205 - Cat Knees

Episode 205 - Cat Knees

This week on Checkpoint Chat, the release flood runs rampant with a preview of God of War: Ragnarok, a review of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2's campaign, and a little dip into the Marvel Snap pond of card game good times.

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Cat knees and elbows
00:12:58 - We're playing God of War Ragnarök!
00:26:48 - Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2's campaign is... fine?
00:40:33 - Marvel Snap is mobile card goodness
00:51:43 - Games out this week (29 October - 4 November)
01:03:10 - Listener questions  

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Oct 31, 202201:11:29
Episode 204 - Weaponized Cows

Episode 204 - Weaponized Cows

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we take a disappointing glide through the streets of Gotham in Gotham Knights, Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is an incredibly clever sequel, and there's loads of promise in the opening hours of A Plague Tale: Requiem. 

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Cats are agents of chaos and cleaning while cooking
00:16:11 - Gotham Knights is... aggressively average
00:35:23 - Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope, meanwhile, is delightful!
00:45:10 - A Plague Tale: Requiem is a real looker
00:55:29 - Games out this week (22-28 October)
01:00:23 - All the latest gaming news
01:34:24 - Listener questions  

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Oct 24, 202201:40:19
Episode 203 - Keyboard Shooters

Episode 203 - Keyboard Shooters

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we delve into the appropriately disgusting but disappointingly frustrating Scorn, land some punches in the Street Fighter 6 Online Beta, and dissect just what is going wrong with Overwatch 2.

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - The evolution of the first person shooter
00:14:20 - Scorn is a disgusting game (for more reasons than one)
00:31:56 - The Street Fighter 6 beta was fun!
00:42:44 - Overwatch 2 is a good game with big issues
00:54:58 - Games out this week (15-21 October)
01:03:35 - All the latest gaming news
01:24:34 - Listener questions  

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Oct 17, 202201:40:46
Episode 202 - Scorching Tumbleweed

Episode 202 - Scorching Tumbleweed

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we evade the heat by standing in chilly queues in Overwatch 2, while also visiting a simpler (and deadlier) time in A Plague Tale: Innocence. 

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Dry air and plane movies
00:17:12 - We've (barely) put time into Overwatch 2
00:31:42 - A Plague Tale: Innocence is still great
00:43:28 - Games out this week (8-15 October)
00:47:15 - All the latest gaming news
01:14:23 - Listener questions  

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Oct 10, 202201:26:57
Episode 201 - Majestic Nemesis

Episode 201 - Majestic Nemesis

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we get rhythmic with the Doom-styled shooter of Metal: Hellsinger, take a visit to Kamurocho in Yakuza 0, and dissect how the new Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 is shaping up based on its beta. Also, RIP Stadia.

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Nemesis in a bikini and Christmas in October
00:12:25 - The Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 beta was fun
00:20:45 - Yakuza 0 is finally clicking
00:33:11 - Metal: Hellsinger is FPS goodness
00:47:08 - Games out this week (1-7 October)
00:51:27 - All the latest gaming news
01:21:50 - Listener questions  

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Oct 03, 202201:26:18
Episode 200 - Elden Lords

Episode 200 - Elden Lords

We've finally made it to Episode 200 of Checkpoint Chat, so to celebrate we're taking a deep dive into Elden Ring, get lost in the visual mayhem of Hyper Demon, style it up as squid kids in Splatoon 3, and lots more.

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Hey it's episode 200!
00:07:50 - Hyper Demon is digital crack
00:18:35 - Splatoon 3 is great, but has connection issues
00:26:57 - We're getting chromed in Fortnite
00:33:45 - Paladins is surprisingly good?
00:40:08 - Finally, our full Elden Ring review!
01:13:55 - We answer your questions!  

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Sep 26, 202201:28:12
Episode 199 - Trumpet Dough

Episode 199 - Trumpet Dough

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we've finished up Saints Row and found it to be a strange, confusing thing, there's still some more fun to have in Elden Ring, and just what is Sony doing with the rising PS5 prices?

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00 - We should really play Bloodborne again
00:13:33 - Our Saints Row review
00:33:14 - Sandy bought the best dad in Fortnite
00:37:36 - Surprise, an Elden Ring segment!
00:44:40 - Games out this week
00:49:07 - All the latest gaming news
01:25:53 - Could this be dog?  

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/checkpointchat

Aug 29, 202201:31:18
Episode 198 - Strawberry Road

Episode 198 - Strawberry Road

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we dive into the world of the rebooted Saints Row, chomp down on some delicious cake in Kirby's Dream Buffet, and answer all of your lovely questions.

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Hay fever and nuclear fallouts
00:12:15 - We've played the opening hours of Saints Row!
00:29:41 - Kirby's Dream Buffet is a tasty little Nintendo title
00:41:41 - Games out this week
00:46:13 - All the latest gaming news
01:03:07 - We answer all your questions!

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Aug 22, 202201:33:05
Episode 197 - Spider Cult

Episode 197 - Spider Cult

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we check out Spider-Man Remastered in all its glory on PC, start a cult in Cult of the Lamb, and continue our adventures through the anime fest that is Xenoblade Chronicles 3.

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Cold fronts, hills, American accents, and cheesecake
00:14:39​ - Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered on PC is a great time
00:29:11 - It's early days, but Cult of the Lamb is real good!
00:42:13 - Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is proper JRPG nonsense (and we love it)
00:54:54 - Games out this week
01:01:20 - All the latest gaming news
01:24:21 - We answer all your questions!  

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat​​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Aug 15, 202201:37:27
Episode 196 - Eating Fidough

Episode 196 - Eating Fidough

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we get down with the anime in Xenoblade Chronicles 3, everything needs to be cleaned in Powerwash Simulator, and would we eat a baked Fidough? Probably.

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Touching grass (and grace)
00:11:43​ - We've barely scratched the surface of Xenoblade Chronicles 3
00:26:45 - Turbo Golf Racing seems like it could be good fun
00:28:18 - PowerWash Simulator is cathartic goodness
00:39:50 - Games out this week
00:42:09 - All the latest gaming news
01:07:50 - We answer all your questions!

Aug 08, 202201:24:06
Episode 195 - Tubby Pink Sauce

Episode 195 - Tubby Pink Sauce

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we're deep into the tiles again with Into The Breach, speedrunning Stray is the new coolness on the block, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge is still so hot. 

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Sunsets and Teletubbies
00:13:15​ - Into the Breach on mobile is a fantastic time sink  
00:24:20 - We snagged the platinum on Stray
00:31:52 - TMNT: Shredder's Revenge is nostalgic goodness
00:41:20 - Games out this week
00:46:08 - All the latest gaming news
01:15:18 - Listener questions

Aug 01, 202201:24:06
Episode 194 - Warm Tyres

Episode 194 - Warm Tyres

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we get down with the purring and gush about Stray again, the tyres are burning red in Forza Horizon 5's newest Hot Wheels expansion, and is The Last of Us Part 1 worth another $70?

---- SHOW NOTES -----

00:00:00​ - Cats are dicks (but we love them)
00:08:14​ - Our full Stray review...
00:26:26 - ... and our full Forza Horizon 5: Hot Wheels review
00:42:32 - Games out this week
00:49:58 - All the latest gaming news

Jul 25, 202201:10:38
Episode 193 - Post-Apocalyptic Meows

Episode 193 - Post-Apocalyptic Meows

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we meow on command with post-apocalyptic cat adventure Stray, new monsters are our prey in Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak, and hot damn Metroid Dread is still some fire.

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00 - Movie trailers and JRPG formulas
00:11:17 - We're playing Stray!
00:32:34 - Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak remains addictive AF
00:37:43 - Sandy finally rolled credits on Metroid Dread
00:44:35 - Games out this week
00:48:57 - All the latest gaming news
01:11:02 - We answer all your questions!

Jul 19, 202201:19:19
Episode 192 - Crab Claw

Episode 192 - Crab Claw

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we hunt down new monsters to craft better weapons in Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak, there's another check-in on Elden Ring, and the news machine is back in overdrive again!

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00 - Stage 6 heartbreak and Fortnite
00:07:50 - Sunbreak is an addictive Monster Hunter Rise expansion!
00:29:06 - Elden Ring. Don't act surprised!
00:41:05 - Games out this week
00:44:47 - All the latest gaming news
01:11:24 - We answer all your questions!

Jul 11, 202201:19:04
Episode 191 - Pimp My Acquisition

Episode 191 - Pimp My Acquisition

This week on a rare in-person Checkpoint Chat, we get racing with F1 22, build up relationships in battle in Fire Emblem: Three Hopes, track down some monsters in Monster Hunter: Rise and Sunbreak, and relive the history of the blue blur in Sonic Origins.

Side note: this week's excellent audio quality was sponsored by Eskom. (Apologies for that)

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Complicated steering wheels
00:13:08​ - We started F1 22...
00:26:28 - ... and we started Fire Emblem: Three Hopes
00:30:53 - Help we're addicted to Monster Hunter Rise again
00:42:01 - Sonic Origins is super retro
00:46:58 - Games out this week
00:50:03 - All the latest gaming news
01:14:20 - We answer all your questions!

Jul 04, 202201:28:59
Episode 190 - Throwing Hands

Episode 190 - Throwing Hands

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we get properly freaked out by spider hands in Elden Ring, throw foot soldiers at the screen in TMNT: Shredder's Revenge, make close comebacks in Mario Strikers: Battle League, and get our anime sword skills back on in Monster Hunter: Rise.

---- SHOW NOTES -----     

00:00:00 - WTF it's raining in winter?
00:09:30 - Surprise, we're STILL playing Elden Ring!
00:17:33 - We rolled credits on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge
00:24:02 - Mario Strikers: Battle League is fun, but light on content
00:38:45 - Monster Hunter Rise is so smooth on PC
00:45:22 - Games out this week
00:47:55 - All the latest gaming news
01:08:53 - We answer none of your questions (RIP!)

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...    

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Jun 27, 202201:11:38
Episode 189 - Gun Trees

Episode 189 - Gun Trees

This week on Checkpoint Chat we travel back in time with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge, have a vibe check-in with Fortnite and Elden Ring, and score some hatricks in Mario Strikers: Battle League. 

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00 - Cold cats and spoon-feeding plants
00:10:53 - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge is retro goodness!
00:21:58 - Is anybody surprised that we're still talking about Elden Ring?
00:29:52 - Mario Strikers: Battle League is... too easy?
00:38:56 - Games out this week
00:42:27 - All the latest gaming news
01:25:08 - We answer your questions!

Follow Checkpoint Chat on...  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpointchat

Jun 20, 202201:32:29
Episode 188 - Critical Failure

Episode 188 - Critical Failure

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we've put a lot more hours into Diablo Immortal and it's still good? The Summer Game Fest has also kicked off and Keighley's opening night had some big games to get excited about. Also, screw Eskom.

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - An important announcement
00:00:50​ - Life hacks, Elden Ring, and Batman
00:11:01 - Diablo Immortal is actually decent?
00:24:22 - Games out this week
00:25:30 - All the latest gaming news

Jun 13, 202201:05:03
Episode 187 - LeChonk Chops

Episode 187 - LeChonk Chops

This week on Checkpoint Chat we're clicking demons and collecting loot in Diablo Immortal, Fortnite is real different without building, and hooboy was that a stacked PlayStation State of Play.

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Back support and chair affairs
00:07:57 - Diablo Immortal sure is a mobile game (and addictive at that)
00:27:44 - Fortnite's no-build mode is a good time
00:32:45 - Games out this week
00:35:03 - All the latest gaming news
01:08:35 - We answer all your questions!


Jun 06, 202201:17:58
Episode 186 - Souls Space

Episode 186 - Souls Space

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we've got firm concluding thoughts on rhythm action game Soundfall, space Soulslike Dolmen, and a whole bunch of talk about Sony's 2022 plans and Game Pass.

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00​ - Cake transactions and food of the future
00:12:46 - Soundfall is... too long
00:21:23​ - Dolmen, meanwhile, is entirely okay
00:31:50 - Games out this week
00:37:31 - All the latest gaming news
01:08:10 - We answer all your questions!

May 30, 202201:28:02
Episode 185 - Bonus Kitten Content

Episode 185 - Bonus Kitten Content

We're back and so are all the games! This week on Checkpoint Chat, we touch on Elden Ring, Lumines, Dolmen, Moonlighter, and Soundfall (which is a lot by our count).

---- SHOW NOTES -----   

00:00:00 - Hoodies and ice-cream
00:10:30 - Matty loved Moonlighter...
00:12:02 - ... and he's hooked on Lumines!
00:19:34 - Matty also rolled credits on Elden Ring (finally)
00:37:02 - Damn, he played some Dolmen too!
00:45:32 - Sandy, meanwhile, has been jamming Soundfall
00:52:57 - Games out this week
00:59:27 - All the latest gaming news
01:23:03 - We answer all your questions!

May 23, 202201:43:21