Low Five Gaming

Studio Low Five

Welcome to Low Five Gaming, the book club-style podcast where two brothers, Alex and Luke, share their lifelong love for video games through engaging conversations and friendly debates. If you're a passionate gamer, a casual fan, or just have a soft spot for the classics, our laid-back, conversational approach will make you feel right at home.

Each month, we'll explore the game of the moment or revisit a beloved classic, satisfying your gaming cravings with our unique blend of humor, insight, and personal experiences. Whether it's reminiscing about crunchy classics like Prince of Persia (89), getting hyped about the latest Nintendo Direct, or diving into deep discussions on FPGA consoles (much to Luke's chagrin), Low Five Gaming is your go-to podcast for all things gaming.


As brothers with a lifelong bond, Alex and Luke bring a genuine camaraderie and relatable banter to every episode, making it easy for you to connect with fellow gamers who truly understand your love for the virtual world. So, if you're looking to join a gaming community where you can enjoy thought-provoking conversations about your favorite games, look no further than Low Five Gaming. You're also invited to join the conversation in our Discord server!


Subscribe now and let's embark on this pixel-powered journey together, sharing our gaming adventures and creating lasting memories along the way.

read less
LeisureLeisure
Video GamesVideo Games
GamesGames
HobbiesHobbies

Episodes

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Oct 15 2024
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Alex and Luke talk The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom.The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, the latest entry in the Zelda series, flips the script by making Princess Zelda the main playable character. Developed by Nintendo and Grezzo, this action-adventure game was released for the Nintendo Switch on September 26, 2024, and has been turning heads with its innovative gameplay and fresh storyline.Echoes of Wisdom brings a new twist to the classic formula, allowing players to use the Tri Rod to summon echoes—imitations of objects and monsters—and navigate through Hyrule and the Still World. With its blend of top-down and side-on views, the game offers a mix of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving that fans of the series have come to love.At the time of recording, Echoes of Wisdom holds a Metacritic score of 86. According to HowLongToBeat, it takes roughly 25-30 hours to complete the main story.Both Alex and Luke played on their Switch. Naturally. It's a Nintendo joint. They discuss the game's innovative mechanics, visual style, and how it stands up to other Zelda titles in the franchise.This episode is unofficially brought to you in part by both the McDonalds Steak, Egg & Cheese Bagel Breakfast Sandwich & hot sauce.Send us a Text Message! We'll respond on our next episode!Support the show​​Visit us at LowFiveGaming.com.Join the Low Five Discord!Email us at hello@lowfivegaming.com.Theme music is by AJ Norman. Design assets were created by Studio Day Job.Low Five Gaming is a Studio Low Five Production.
Disco Elysium - The Final Cut
Jun 15 2024
Disco Elysium - The Final Cut
Luke and Alex Talk Disco ElysiumThis month, we delve deep into the surreal and thought-provoking world of Disco Elysium. Developed by ZA/UM and released in 2019, this narrative-driven RPG puts players in the shoes of a deeply flawed detective navigating a city rife with political tension, personal demons, and existential crises. With a unique blend of noir aesthetics and psychological depth, Disco Elysium challenges players to solve a murder while grappling with the protagonist's fractured psyche.Both Alex and Luke rolled the credits on this complex journey. Luke experienced the game on his Steam Deck, while Alex split his time between his Steam Deck and PC. The game boasts a Metacritic score of 91 on PC, praised for its narrative depth and freedom of choice. With around 30 hours needed to complete the main story, it’s a substantial dive into a richly detailed world.Join us as we dissect the narrative layers, discuss our favorite moments, and ponder the philosophical questions posed by Disco Elysium. Whether you're a seasoned detective or new to the streets of Revachol, this episode offers a comprehensive look at one of the most acclaimed RPGs of our time.This episode is unofficially brought to you in part by dad rock.Send us a Text Message! We'll respond on our next episode!Support the show​​Visit us at LowFiveGaming.com.Join the Low Five Discord!Email us at hello@lowfivegaming.com.Theme music is by AJ Norman. Design assets were created by Studio Day Job.Low Five Gaming is a Studio Low Five Production.
Deadeus
May 15 2024
Deadeus
Step into the eerie world of Deadeus, a unique horror game developed for the Game Boy by -IZMA-. This haunting title, originally released in 2019, immerses players in a dark narrative where a young boy has a prophetic nightmare that everyone in his village will die in three days. With 11 different endings and no direct path, players must explore, investigate, and decide the best course of action to potentially save the villagers or uncover deeper mysteries.Deadeus stands out for its chilling atmosphere and intricate storytelling, all crafted within the constraints of classic Game Boy hardware. It showcases the power of pixel art and minimalist design to deliver a profoundly unsettling experience. Featuring music by Stuart Busby, the game’s soundscape adds an extra layer of tension to the gripping narrative.Alex played Deadeus on his Analogue Pocket, embracing the physical cartridge experience, while Luke explored the game through a ROM on his Steam Deck. Both hosts experienced the game’s unique horror elements and discussed how it masterfully leverages its retro platform to deliver modern chills.Join us as we delve into Deadeus’ complex storylines, explore its multiple endings, and discuss the game’s impact on the indie horror scene. If you’re a fan of retro gaming or looking for a fresh horror experience, Deadeus is a must-play.This episode is unofficially brought to you in part by Naz Reid.Send us a Text Message! We'll respond on our next episode!Support the show​​Visit us at LowFiveGaming.com.Join the Low Five Discord!Email us at hello@lowfivegaming.com.Theme music is by AJ Norman. Design assets were created by Studio Day Job.Low Five Gaming is a Studio Low Five Production.
Pine Creek
Apr 15 2024
Pine Creek
Alex and Luke talk Pine Creek.Dive into the eerie world of Pine Creek, where the mysterious disappearance of a young girl in a seemingly tranquil town spirals into a tale of cults and ritualistic mysteries. Developed by Marco of Carmelo Electronics, with significant contributions from David Martínez Canales, Pine Creek is a Game Boy Color adventure that marries classic pixel art with a gripping narrative.This game challenges players to explore, solve puzzles, and unravel a deep story about life, death, and the shadows lurking in Pine Creek. Enjoy moments of reflection and camaraderie, savor delicious in-game food, and lose yourself in the arcade games that dot this rich pixelated landscape.Fully playable on original hardware via flashcart or any Game Boy emulator, Pine Creek offers a nostalgic yet fresh experience for veteran and new gamers alike. At the time of this recording, the game is celebrated for its authentic retro feel and compelling storytelling. It takes about three hours to beat.Luke experienced Pine Creek on his Steam Deck through a ROM, while Alex enjoyed a physical copy on his Analogue Pocket, diving deep into the game's immersive world.Join us as we dissect Pine Creek's intricate narrative, discuss its gameplay mechanics, and explore how it stands out in the indie gaming scene.This episode is unofficially brought to you in part by house shoes.Send us a Text Message! We'll respond on our next episode!Support the show​​Visit us at LowFiveGaming.com.Join the Low Five Discord!Email us at hello@lowfivegaming.com.Theme music is by AJ Norman. Design assets were created by Studio Day Job.Low Five Gaming is a Studio Low Five Production.
The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask
Feb 15 2024
The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask
Alex and Luke talk The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask.Majora's Mask is a standout title in The Legend of Zelda series known for its time-bending adventures and dark, compelling narrative. Developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo 64 in 2000, this game takes players on a race against time in the mysterious land of Termina, employing a unique mechanic of a three-day cycle and a collection of transformative masks. The game received a fresh face with its 3DS remake in 2015. The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D not only polished its graphics but also refined gameplay mechanics, making this enigmatic adventure more accessible to a new generation of players, while still captivating those who cherished the original. This version added a new layer of depth to the classic, proving the game's timeless appeal.At the time of this recording, Majora's Mask boasts a Metacritic score of 95. According to How Long to Beat, the main story can be completed in around 21 hours.Alex and Luke revisited this classic on the Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Both hosts were able to play with the Switch's official N64 Controller, which was quite the treat.Join us as we unravel the mysteries of Majora's Mask, discuss its legacy, and share why it remains a beloved adventure that stands the test of time.This episode is unofficially brought to you in part guides.We mentioned Hand-Drawn Game Guides during our discussion. If that's something that piques your interest, check out Phil's site. No affiliation. No partnership. His stuff is just super rad!Send us a Text Message! We'll respond on our next episode!Support the show​​Visit us at LowFiveGaming.com.Join the Low Five Discord!Email us at hello@lowfivegaming.com.Theme music is by AJ Norman. Design assets were created by Studio Day Job.Low Five Gaming is a Studio Low Five Production.
Sea of Stars
Nov 15 2023
Sea of Stars
Luke and Alex talk Sea of Stars.Prepare to be transported back to the golden era of turn-based games with Sea of Stars from Sabotage Studios. This episode, we’re diving into this modern classic that pays homage to the JRPGs we all loved. With its captivating art style, a roster of formidable enemies, and dynamic game mechanics, Sea of Stars is more than just a game; it’s a journey through nostalgia and innovation.Released in 2023, Sea of Stars stands out as a testament to Sabotage Studios' craftsmanship, marrying old-school charm with modern sensibilities. The game's alluring art, challenging puzzles, and pulse-pounding boss battles have already garnered attention in the gaming community, earning it notable accolades.Navigating the new challenges of fatherhood, Alex and Luke find solace and excitement in the immersive world of Sea of Stars. Between diapers and late-night feedings, they explore the game’s engaging mechanics, like the badge indicating correct inputs - a small but significant touch that adds to the gameplay experience.But that’s not all! We also reminisce about The Messenger, another hit from Sabotage. Plus, we'll dish out on PlateUp!’s rogue-like cooking adventures and share a hilarious Madden anecdote about relocating the Texans to Anchorage. And don't miss our thoughts on the buzz around the rumored live-action Zelda movie and the enchanting Super Mario Bros. Mario Wonder game.From the strategic depths of Sea of Stars to the quirky kitchens of PlateUp!, this episode is a wild ride through the gaming landscape, peppered with our personal anecdotes of balancing gaming passions with the demands of parenthood.This episode is unofficially brought to you in part by pacifiers – because sometimes, the fiercest warriors (and newest dads) need a little tranquility.Send us a Text Message! We'll respond on our next episode!Support the show​​Visit us at LowFiveGaming.com.Join the Low Five Discord!Email us at hello@lowfivegaming.com.Theme music is by AJ Norman. Design assets were created by Studio Day Job.Low Five Gaming is a Studio Low Five Production.
LFC | Unboxing Joy: The Passion Behind Collecting
Oct 15 2023
LFC | Unboxing Joy: The Passion Behind Collecting
Ever wonder why some people are so passionate about collecting physical media? Join me as I share my personal journey from collecting vinyl records, cassettes, and CDs during my childhood to eventually finding my true passion – video game collecting – in 2018. Discover how working three jobs to save up for a ring for my wife led me to dive deep into the world of game collecting and the joy I find in the tactile experience of cartridge and CD games.As a collector, I've come to appreciate the unique value and sense of community that comes with collecting physical media. While digital gaming offers convenience, it lacks resale value and the opportunity for borrowing or sharing. Listen in as I discuss my experiences of selling off and repurchasing collections, like my Gamecube and NES, and my journey with the Game Boy series. You'll learn that playing the games brings me more joy than preserving them, and that the real thrill of collecting comes from the journey itself.Interested in video game collecting? I've got some strategies and tips for you, such as buying games in bulk and exploring limited-run physical editions. Hear about my recent experience with purchasing a Sega Genesis mystery box and the satisfaction of finding and reselling games I didn't want. To wrap up the episode, I invite fellow collectors to share their own experiences and collections, emphasizing that collecting is a rewarding and enjoyable way to show passion for a hobby or project.Send us a Text Message! We'll respond on our next episode!Support the show​​Visit us at LowFiveGaming.com.Join the Low Five Discord!Email us at hello@lowfivegaming.com.Theme music is by AJ Norman. Design assets were created by Studio Day Job.Low Five Gaming is a Studio Low Five Production.
Donkey Kong Country
Sep 15 2023
Donkey Kong Country
Alex and Luke Talk Donkey Kong Country.Donkey Kong Country is a groundbreaking platformer developed by Rare and published by Nintendo for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. In this iconic title, players take on the roles of Donkey Kong and his sidekick Diddy Kong, embarking on a quest to recover their stolen banana hoard from the villainous King K. Rool and his army of Kremlings.Originally released on November 21, 1994, the game was a pivotal moment in gaming history, showcasing revolutionary graphics for its time, thanks to its use of pre-rendered 3D sprites. The game's technical achievements and addictive gameplay garnered universal acclaim, earning it a lasting legacy in the platforming genre.According to howlongtobeat.com, the main storyline of Donkey Kong Country can be completed in about 5 hours. However, for those aiming to achieve 100% game completion by finding all bonus rooms and collectibles, you're looking at a much larger commitment.Alex revisited Donkey Kong Country on his Switch using NSO, as did Luke. Both hosts succeeded in toppling King K. Rool, but the question remains: Who truly mastered the dense jungles and treacherous mine cart rides of Donkey Kong Island?This episode is unofficially brought to you in part by pumpkin spice.Send us a Text Message! We'll respond on our next episode!Support the show​​Visit us at LowFiveGaming.com.Join the Low Five Discord!Email us at hello@lowfivegaming.com.Theme music is by AJ Norman. Design assets were created by Studio Day Job.Low Five Gaming is a Studio Low Five Production.
Dredge
Aug 15 2023
Dredge
Luke and Alex Talk Dredge.Dredge is a chilling indie fishing video game developed by New Zealand-based studio Black Salt Games and published by Team17. The game introduces players to an unnamed fisherman who, as he delves deeper into the expansive open-world archipelago, confronts increasingly Lovecraftian marine creatures, making each fishing venture a dive into the abyss.The highly anticipated title was released on March 30, 2023, for multiple platforms, from Microsoft Windows to the Nintendo Switch and next-gen consoles. Critics and players have been captivated by its unique blend of serene fishing mechanics juxtaposed with the looming dread of the ocean's monstrous secrets. As of publication, the game holds a score of 85 on metacritic.com.According to howlongtobeat.com, when zeroing in on the core missions, Dredge unfolds over approximately nine hours. However, for the completionists aiming to uncover every sunken treasure and monstrous fish, the game extends to roughly 17 hours.Alex dove into the eerie waters of Dredge on his Nintendo Switch, appreciating the game's atmospheric tension and intricate mechanics. On the other hand, Luke set sail on his Xbox Series X, making full use of the game's unique panic and day-night features to face the marine horrors head-on. Both hosts braved the game's Lovecraftian depths, contending with the harrowing hallucinations and gigantic sea monsters. However, only time will tell whose fishing expedition was more successful.This episode is unofficially brought to you in part by frozen pizza.Send us a Text Message! We'll respond on our next episode!Support the show​​Visit us at LowFiveGaming.com.Join the Low Five Discord!Email us at hello@lowfivegaming.com.Theme music is by AJ Norman. Design assets were created by Studio Day Job.Low Five Gaming is a Studio Low Five Production.
Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins
Jul 15 2023
Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins
Alex and Luke Talk Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins.Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins is a platform game developed and published by Nintendo for the Game Boy. The player takes control of the protagonist Mario, whose main objective is to reclaim his personal island, Mario Land, from the antagonist Wario, who has seized control while Mario was away in the events of the first Super Mario Land.Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins was first released in Japan on October 21, 1992, and later in North America and Europe in November of the same year. The game was well-received by critics, who praised its graphics and gameplay, and it is considered one of the greatest Game Boy games of all time. As of publication, the game holds a score of 80 on metacritic.com. According to howlongtobeat.com, When focusing on the main objectives, Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins is about 2 Hours in length. If you're a gamer that strives to see all aspects of the game, you are likely to spend around 3½ Hours to obtain 100% completion.Alex played an actual Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins cartridge on his Analogue Pocket. He enjoyed the classic feel and the nostalgia of the game. Luke played the game on his Nintendo Switch via NSO and cheesed the hell out of the rewind feature. Both hosts completed the game, collecting all six golden coins and defeating Wario. But let the record show that Luke's win has an asterisks.This episode is unofficially brought to you in part by children's books.Send us a Text Message! We'll respond on our next episode!Support the show​​Visit us at LowFiveGaming.com.Join the Low Five Discord!Email us at hello@lowfivegaming.com.Theme music is by AJ Norman. Design assets were created by Studio Day Job.Low Five Gaming is a Studio Low Five Production.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Jun 15 2023
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
In this spoiler-free episode, hosts Alex and Luke dive into the expansive world of "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom," the eagerly-awaited sequel to "Breath of the Wild." Despite Luke's 50-hour gameplay journey, he's yet to progress the storyline past the Wind Temple, which allows us to keep the major plot points under wraps.Developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch, Tears of the Kingdom propels you into the sprawling landscapes of Hyrule and the mysterious islands floating in the vast skies above​​. The game is a testament to Nintendo's commitment to addressing player critiques from the last game and enhancing the gameplay experience in this latest entry.We explore a range of topics, from the intricate map design and the joy of exploration, to the innovative weapon durability system. The master hand, fuse, and ascend abilities are other standout features that get our attention in this discussion.Of course, comparisons to Breath of the Wild are inevitable, and we delve into why Tears of the Kingdom stands tall as a fantastic sequel. If you loved the first game, this follow-up seems to take everything to the next level.Tears of the Kingdom has received acclaim for its improvements, expanded open world, and features encouraging exploration and experimentation. It sold more than 10 million copies in its first three days of release. As of publication, the game has a score of 95 on metacritic.com. This episode is unofficially brought to you in part by dads.Send us a Text Message! We'll respond on our next episode!Support the show​​Visit us at LowFiveGaming.com.Join the Low Five Discord!Email us at hello@lowfivegaming.com.Theme music is by AJ Norman. Design assets were created by Studio Day Job.Low Five Gaming is a Studio Low Five Production.