Gaming The System - The Feminist Gaming Podcast
The podcast where 3 intersectional feminists examine gaming and games through a feminist lens. New Episodes every Thursday.Alex, Jem and Matt believe gaming is good. Gaming is good for relaxation, for learning, for bringing people together and for your mental health. But like all media, there is both good and bad and we want to address how we make gaming a safe and healthy environment for women and minority groups (although lets not forget that people of colour are the global ethnic majority).We want to see the small steps towards an intersectional feminist future that have been made in gam...
Beyond the Script: Can AI Make NPCs Real? (Ep 250)
In the second half of our AI in gaming discussion, we turn to the rise of intelligent NPCs – and what happens when they start to think for themselves. Could AI make game worlds richer and more believable, or would it destroy the structure and chaos we love?
The team explore how realism can both enhance and break immersion, from the comedic unpredictability of NPCs in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey to the eerie brilliance of the Shadow of Mordor Nemesis System, which made enemies remember and evolve from past encounters. There’s nostalgia for the “arrow to the knee” da...
249 AI in Gaming Part 1 – The Co-Pilot Conundrum
In this first of two episodes exploring AI and gaming, Jem, Matt, and Alex discuss the arrival of AI co-pilots — new tools from Microsoft and Google designed to sit within your game and offer real-time hints, walkthroughs, and quest support.
The team examine whether these helpers could make games more accessible and inclusive, or if they risk taking over and removing the joy (and sometimes frustration) of discovery. We discuss how AI advice compares to walkthroughs, guides, and playground tips that have long been part of gaming culture, and consider whether convenience might come at the cost of...
248 - Top 9 Best Gaming Franchises
In this episode, we explore a more positive topic by listing our top favorite gaming franchises of all time. Each of us shares three of our most beloved game series, highlighting what makes them special and impactful. We discuss the classic Spyro trilogy, the groundbreaking Call of Duty series, the iconic Resident Evil games, the exploratory Assassin's Creed adventures, the timeless Sims, the trailblazing Tomb Raider, the epic God of War saga, and the beloved Baldur's Gate. Join us as we reflect on the joys and experiences these games have brought to our lives.
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247 - Top 9 Disappointing Games
In this episode, we create a round-robin list of our top 9 most disappointing games. Each of us shares three games that failed to meet our expectations for various reasons, from clunky gameplay and poor expansions to soulless sequels and childhood heartbreaks. Join us as Gem, Matt, and Alex recount their frustrating experiences with games like 'The Sims Medieval', 'Dragon Age: Veil Guard', and 'Final Fantasy 15'. Whether it’s the collapse of beloved franchises or the unrewarding grind of educational games, we dive deep into what makes a game truly disappointing. Share your own gaming letdowns in the comments an...
Breaking News: EA Bought Out — What Does It Mean for Gaming?
In this Gaming the System breaking news episode, Jem, Alex, and Matt dive into the shocking $55 billion sale of Electronic Arts (EA) — the publisher behind The Sims, Battlefield, and Dragon Age — to a consortium led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), alongside Silver Lake Partners and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners.
The team unpacks what this means for the gaming world, from concerns about human rights and LGBTQ+ representation to the growing influence of “sports-washing” and “game-washing” in global entertainment.
Alex explains Saudi Arabia’s wider Vision 2030 strategy, including its push to dominate eSports and profes...
246 Gaming Together: The Potential of Board Game Cafés
In this episode of Gaming the System, we continue our exploration of community gaming, focusing on the world of board game cafés. What makes these spaces so appealing, and what role can they play in bringing people together?
Jem, Alex, and Matt share their personal experiences of cafés such as Dice Box and Wayfarers Rest and the Herefordshire Board Gamers tent at Fantasy Forest. We consider the stereotypes that still cling to gaming spaces, from male-dominated tournaments to the intimidating pub-like vibe some cafés can give off, and contrast that with the warmth and cre...
245 Gaming the System but together
In this episode, we dive into the joys and challenges of gaming in person. From the thrill of collaborative board games like Pandemic Legacy to the immersive world of Warhammer 40K and the rise of welcoming board game cafés, we explore how playing together face-to-face builds connections, sparks conversation, and helps us find community.
What We Talk About
Pandemic Legacy Season 2: how it transforms a family game night into a year-long storytelling journey.The tactical and social layers of cooperative gaming, don't forget the snacks! Warhammer 40K: lore and learning curves in the ta...244 - Exploring Split Fiction Part 2: Unpacking Themes of Trauma and Grief
Split Fiction Story and Character Analysis | Deep Dive with Spoilers
Join us for another episode as we continue our deep dive into the game 'Split Fiction'. This episode is heavily focused on the story and character development of protagonists Zoe and Mio. Expect spoilers ahead as we discuss the game's narrative themes, including mental health, trauma, and grief. We also break down the game's approach to storytelling, character dynamics, and the portrayal of its villains. While the game may have its narrative shortcomings, it's still an enriching experience worth talking about. Tune in for an insightful discussion...
243 - Exploring Split Fiction Part 1: Co-Op Gaming Unpacked
Exploring Co-op Gaming with Split Fiction: Mechanics, Genres, and More!
Join us in the first part of our Split Fiction series, where we dive into the latest release by Haylight Games. In this episode, we explore the co-op game mechanics, discuss the evolution of co-op as a genre, and share our firsthand experiences with Split Fiction. Discover why this game stands out, what makes co-op games special, and how Split Fiction draws inspiration from a multitude of game genres. Perfect for anyone looking for a spoiler-free introduction to Split Fiction!
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...242 - Gaming news - Is Roblox CEO on the rocks? BG3 turns two!
August’s gaming news gave us plenty to dig into, from serious questions around Roblox to a milestone celebration for Baldur’s Gate 3.
In this episode of Gaming the System, we start with Roblox, where over 120,000 people have signed a petition calling for the removal of its CEO. Jem takes us inside the strange contradictions of the platform — from heavy-handed moderation and unexplained bans to the bizarre and sometimes deeply troubling games, and on to concerns about kids being pushed into unsafe spaces beyond the game. It sparks a wider discussion on responsibility, regulation, and why parents need t...
241 What we did in the Summer Holidays
We took a month off over the summer, so thought we'd catch up with each other and see what we've been playing!
From epic samurai adventures in Ghost of Tsushima and the fluid, meditative landscapes of Sword of the Sea, to the punishing but rewarding battles of Expedition 33 (Clair Obscur).
Jem headed to the beach with Dave the Diver and Coral Island, and enjoyed some quality family time with Split Fiction. Matt headed out on a Fallout road trip, hitting New Vegas, Fallout 3, and Fallout 4. Alex found herself in Japan, with Ghost of Tsushima, following th...
240 Open World Games – Part 2: The Joy and the Job of Exploration
In this second half of our adventure into open-world games, Jem, Alex, and Matt pick up the conversation with a focus on accessibility, open worlds done wrong, and how to define that "Je ne sais quoi" when it works.
We dig into overwhelm, especially for neurodiverse or time-poor gamers. Time to remember that good accessibility features aren’t about “dumbing down” but enhancing play for everyone.
Matt unpacks why some open-world games fail — empty maps, repetitive quests, weak writing, and executive-led design — while Alex shares her frustrations with fatigue and grinding that make huge maps feel like c...
Side Quest - Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 First Impressions.
In this Side Quest episode of Gaming The System, Jem and Matt dive into their first impressions of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 — the surprise hit that’s quickly becoming one of the year’s most talked-about games.
From the moment-to-moment combat to the sweeping, surreal story, Jem and Matt share where they’re at in the game (up to the Forgotten Battlefield) and what’s drawn them in so far. Expect honest reflections on difficulty spikes, character design, and why turn-based combat can be more satisfying than frantic button-mashing. Plus SPOILERS!
We explore how an indie studio pul...
239 Open World Games – Part 1: Freedom, Frustration, and Fox-Stroking
In this episode, Jem, Alex, and Matt take a deep dive into the sprawling landscapes of open-world games. From their first taste of exploration to the joys and pitfalls of the genre today.
What makes a game “open world”? Are they genuinely free-roaming experiences or just clever marketing? An opportunity to lose ourselves for hundreds of hours, or a cause of overwhelm?
We share personal memories, from Skyrim’s paper map magic to the intimidating sprawl of Horizon Forbidden West. Debate the perfect balance between exploration, story, and accessibility. Explore the unique “character” of game worlds lik...
238 Uncovering Creativity – Indie Highlights from Day of the Devs Part 2
Show Notes – Gaming the System Podcast: Day of the Devs – Part 2
In the second part of our deep dive into Day of the Devs, Alex, Jem, and Matt explore the imaginative and diverse world of indie gaming showcased at this vibrant event. The team reflects on the distinct charm and creativity that sets indie games apart from mainstream offerings, highlighting the passion and authenticity driving these unique projects.
Discover which games piqued their interest—and which didn't quite hit the mark. From quirky musical nostalgia in Mixtape, to genre-blending curiosity in Neverwake, and even t...
237 Uncovering Creativity – Indie Highlights from Day of the Devs - Part 1
Dive into a refreshing exploration of indie gaming as hosts Alex, Jem, and Matt take a look at Day of the Devs—an indie-focused showcase brimming with creativity and community spirit. Moving beyond mainstream gaming events, this episode offers a thoughtful and enthusiastic look at unique games that push creative boundaries and foster genuine connections.
Key Highlights from the Episode:
Fresh Air: The team discuss how indie games offer more thoughtful storytelling and can resonate more personally compared to mainstream titles.
Surprising Finds: Titles like Snap and Grab...
236 - Antagonists — Part 2: Femme Fatales, Loose Cannons & Why Bad Villains Fail
Last week we challenged the myth that “antagonist = evil.” Now Matt, Jem & Alex put the spotlight on female antagonists—where they shine, where they’re fetishised, and why poorly-drawn foes can sink an otherwise great game.
In this episode
2015-22 just 11 % of video-game antagonists were women
Do you need at least one sentient antagonist?
We discuss Lady Dimitrescu’s “mother-fication,” Quiet’s tactical bikini, Orin the red's erraticism, Frau Engel, Yennefer and more.
The worst thing a villain can be is inconsequential.
How can...
235 - Antagonists: Beyond the Obvious (Part 1)
Antagonists aren’t just moustache-twirling masterminds—they’re the blizzard that buries you, the friend who calls your bluff, the code of honour that trips your hero. In the first half of our conversation, Matt, Jem, and Alex debunk the myth that antagonists are inherently evil and explore every flavour of narrative resistance, from tragic rivals to the environment itself.
Antagonist ≠ Villain
Sentience is over-rated?
We talk God of War, The Last of Us Part II, Uncharted 4, Dragon Age: Inquisition and Resident Evil: Village.
Grey zone...
234 Negotiation, Erosion, and Resistance - June News Round-Up (Part 2)
Gaming the System – June Gaming News (Part 2)
This week, we dive into two simmering stories that might not make headlines, but could have lasting impacts on the gaming industry. From the tentative end to the year-long voice actor strike, to the steady erosion of corporate commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we’re asking: where do we go from here?
Jem hosts alongside Alex and Matt, tackling topics ranging from AI exploitation to the erosion of progressive values in major studios like Rockstar and EA. As always, we’re pulling no punches and holding the ind...
233 - Summer slowdown, sexbots and Switch 2 scrutiny - June News Round-Up (Part 1)
In this episode of Gaming the System, Jem, Alex, and Matt look at recent gaming news. Diving into one of the hottest stories in gaming this June: the release of the Nintendo Switch 2.
But first, it’s time for a “what we’re playing” check-in—complete with chill puzzle games, board game obsessions, and Matt’s first ever game of Warhammer 40K.
What we’re playing - Old favourites, cozy summer gaming and Jem's scattergun approach.
Nintendo Switch 2 - We explore some of the controversy of Nintendo's newest console. Have consoles r...
232 - Disability in Games - Is To a T about living with disability?
In this second part of our disability discussion, Alex, Jem, and Matt dive into To a T. A quirky, cosy narrative game with a quietly powerful take on difference, access, and fitting in. It’s weird, whimsical, and worth talking about.
Key Talking Points
Is a game that explores life's challenges in T-pose an allegory for living with disability?Teenager uses long-handled spoons and rides a unicycle, normalising adaptations.Is it ever helpful to discuss disability and superpowers in the same breath? Why does a game about needing and using ada...231 - Disability in Games: Beyond the Token Character
Alex, Jem, and Matt return to disability in games and examine how disabled people are represented (or not) across game worlds, narratives, and mechanics. As always, the conversation is grounded in lived experience, intersectional feminism, and an openness to complexity.
Key Talking Points
From wheelchairs to invisible conditions—disability is broad, personal, and everywhere, so what counts as disability?Disabled protagonists are rare. When they do show up, the game often edits out the reality.A cool robot arm doesn’t erase the disability. Prosthetics ≠ cure Games love the tec...230 - Allyship in Action: Lessons from In-Game Allies - Part 02
Exploring Allies in Gaming: The Good, The Bad, and The Betrayals
In this episode, the hosts delve deep into what makes a bad ally in gaming and real life. They discuss various instances from popular games like 'Star Wars Jedi: Survivor,' 'Spyro,' 'Pandemic Legacy,' and 'Baldur's Gate III,' highlighting how betrayal and inconsistent allies impact gameplay and player trust. They also share their favorite in-game companions and how these characters enrich their gaming experiences, touching on titles like 'The Last of Us,' 'God of War,' 'LA Noire,' and 'World of...
228 - Word-Hammer 40k - Writing in the 41st Millennium with Chris
Exploring Warhammer 40K: Writing, Lore, and the Power of Short Stories - Featuring Chris
Welcome back to another episode of Gaming the System! In this supplemental episode, our host is joined once again by Chris to dive deeper into writing within the Warhammer 40K universe. The conversation spans Chris’s journey into the 40K hobby, touching upon the evolution of the game, the appeal of different factions like Sisters of Battle and Death Guard, and the intricacies of writing compelling 40K narratives. They discuss how the vast lore of Warhammer 40K provides a rich ground for storytelling, th...
229 - Allyship in Action: Lessons from In-Game Allies - Part 01
Exploring Allyship in Gaming: In-Game Companions and Real-Life Lessons
In this episode, we dive into the concept of allyship, examining what makes an ally in the gaming world and how those lessons can be applied to real life. We discuss the different types of allies, from NPCs and animal companions to trading allies and equipment. Examples from games like Fallout New Vegas, Assassin's Creed, Skyrim, and more illustrate how allies contribute to achieving goals. We also explore the dynamics of allyship in cooperative gameplay, particularly in MMOs like World of Warcraft. Join us for an engaging discussion...
227 Gaming the System vs. The Anti-Woke Steam List – Part 2
In this second part of our journey into the Woke Games Steam List, Matt, Jem, and Alex continue dissecting the spreadsheet compiled by a Steam group determined to flag games they believe are “too woke.” The list includes 1,600 titles categorised based on content they find politically or socially objectionable, particularly anything seen as pro LGBTQ+, progressive themes, or diverse narratives.
In this episode, the GTS Pod explores what motivates this kind of cataloguing, who benefits from it, and what it tells us about gamers and the industry.
Absurd - Calling Hades out for LGBT...
226 Gaming the System vs. The Anti-Woke Steam List – Part 1
In this first half of our two-part deep dive, the Gaming the System crew tackles a bizarre and troubling corner of the gaming world: a Steam curator list designed to help players avoid so-called “woke” games. Yes, really.
Matt, Jem, and Alex dissect this extensive (and often baffling) database compiled by those who see diversity, empathy, and inclusion as threats to gaming. We explore the origins of the term "woke," how it's been weaponised by the political right, and how it's used here as a catch-all for anything remotely progressive, from LGBT+ representation to pro-environmental themes.
Wh...
225 - Gaming Narratives: Power and Pitfalls in Interactive Storytelling - Feat. Chris - Part 2
In the second half of our conversation with Chris on writing in games, we dive even deeper into how writing has evolved across the gaming industry. From the early days of text-based adventures to cinematic storytelling powerhouses like God of War and Baldur's Gate 3, we explore what makes game writing work.
We touch on the layered history of iconic characters like Lara Croft and James Bond, and how their portrayals reflect broader societal shifts. Is Lara’s journey just about tomb raiding, or does it say something deeper about class, identity, and representation? Why does 007's timeless ch...
224 - The Last of Us Season 2 – Double Episode Special!
After two long years of anticipation, The Last of Us is back – and so are we! In this extra-long, spoiler-packed premiere special, Matt and Jem dive deep into the first two episodes of Season 2 in a raw, emotional, and fiercely analytical conversation that kicks off our brand new series.
This double-length special sets the stage for the rest of our TLOU coverage, which will continue exclusively on Patreon. So if you’re as obsessed with this show as we are, head over to patreon.com/gamingthesystem to stay with us e...
223 - Gaming Narratives: Power and Pitfalls in Interactive Storytelling - Feat. Chris - Part 1
Alex, Jem, and Matt are joined by lifelong writer and gamer Chris for a rich and unfiltered conversation on the craft of video game writing. They get into what sets game writing apart from other media like film, television, and books, exploring the challenges and unique storytelling power.
Chris shares insights from both his hands-on experience of writing and his deep love for gaming. The episode considers how interactivity and non-linearity shape the narrative experience, as they meander through topics such as relinquishing control, the strengths (and failings) of exposition in games, and the intricacies o...
222 Gamer Guilt Episode 04 - Backlogs, Bias & Letting Go
In this final instalment of our Gamer Guilt series, we delve into the emotional baggage of gaming: the backlog shame spiral, perfectionism, and the internalised pressure to “do it right.” Hosted by Jem, with Alex and Matt in conversation, this episode is a thoughtful, funny, and heartfelt wrap-up on how guilt seeps into our gaming habits—and how we can begin to let it go.
Do you really need to finish every game you start?
From towering game libraries to piles of unread books, we explore the guilt of not finish...
221 - Baldur's Gate 3 Fan Casting Part 4 - Muscle Mommies, Miniature Space Hamsters & Mage Hand Mischief - Feat. Fin
In the fourth and final episode of our Baldur’s Gate 3 FanCast, Matt, Alex, Jem, and returning guest Fin wrap up our casting choices and fawn over the companions who’ve stolen our hearts and party spots. This time, it’s all about Karlach, Jaheira, and the one and only Boo - no, Minsc.
From Minsc's psychology to shaking hands with Neil Newbon, this episode celebrates everything we love about BG3: heart, trauma, power, and a surprising amount of hamster love.
Missed the earlier episodes? Catch up for hot takes on Astarion, Shadowheart, Lae’zel, Gale, an...
220 - GTS March News roundup - Part 2 - What do gamers want? Thick thighs but not Wonder Woman!
In this episode, Alex, Jem, and Matt get stuck into more of March’s gaming headlines, with their signature intersectional feminist lens. From thick-thighed anime girls to cancelled superhero titles, the team digs into what’s driving trends—and who’s really benefitting.
Highlights:
Economic Recession = Thicker Thighs?A Japanese game producer claims that plumper character designs are recession-driven. The team tears apart this bizarre argument, calling out the continued objectification of women in anime and gaming.Who Are Gamers, Really?
Jem shares new research from MIDEA on why people play gam...
219 - GTS March News roundup - Part 1 - Games, Gimmicks and Gatekeepers
Gaming the System – March News Round-Up (Part 1)
In This Episode:
This week, your favourite feminist gaming trio—Alex, Jem, and Matt—dive into the March headlines with their signature mix of insight, laughter, and righteous indignation. From poker-playing indie darlings to FOMO-fueled spending sprees, we dissect the news through a feminist lens, asking: who benefits, who loses out, and what’s hiding beneath the surface?
This is Part 1 of 2 in our March news round-up. Please stay tuned for more in Part 2, where we continue our exploration of power, money, and represen...
218 - Casting Baldur’s Gate 3 - Part 3: Our Tav, Astarion’s Trauma, Minthara’s Chaos (Feat. Fin)
Welcome back to Gaming The System, the podcast where three intersectional feminists 🎭 examine gaming through a critical lens. In this four-part series, we’re deep-diving into Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3), imagining our dream cast for a potential TV adaptation 📺, and unpacking what makes these characters so compelling.
Series Overview:
We’re taking on the ultimate challenge—casting Baldur’s Gate 3 as a live-action series. Across four episodes, we debate the perfect actors for companion and non-companion characters, sharing our favourite (and sometimes unhinged) headcanons along the way. Plus, we delve into BG3’s rich theme...
217 Gamer Guilt Part 3: The Cost - Spending, Regrets and Justifications
Welcome back to Gaming the System, where three intersectional feminists examine gaming and games through a feminist lens! In this third installment of our Gamer Guilt series, Jem, Alex, and Matt dive into the financial side of gaming—how much we spend, how we justify it, and the guilt that sometimes comes with it.
💰 Gaming vs. Other Hobbies
We rarely question the cost of sports, music, or collecting hobbies, but why is gaming spending scrutinised? From consoles to digital libraries, our hosts break down the real costs of gaming and compare them to other pasti...
216 - Gamer Guilt Part 2: Productivity & The Raw Dogging Life
Welcome back to Gaming The System! This week, Jem, Alex, and Matt are back with Part 2 of our deep dive into gamer guilt—this time, exploring how guilt shows up in unexpected ways, from screen time worries to external judgement, and why we feel the need to justify our gaming habits.
This episode goes beyond just gaming and into the big stuff—self-worth, productivity, social connection, and the pressure to "use our time wisely." Why do some hobbies feel more acceptable than others? And how can we embrace gaming as a meaningful part of life with...
215 Gamer Guilt - Part 1
Gaming The System: Gamer Guilt Part 1 – Show Notes
🎮 Welcome back to Gaming The System! This week, Jem, Alex, and Matt dive into gamer guilt—that nagging feeling about how much time we spend gaming, what we play, and whether we’re making the “right” choices with our hobby.
This episode focuses on time, priorities, and responsibility—how we fit gaming into our lives, the social pressures that make us feel guilty, and how different perspectives shape our experiences.
What’s in this episode?
⏳ How much time do we...214 - Baldur's Gate 3 Fan Casting Part 2 - Lae’zel & Wyll! Feat. Fin
Baldur’s Gate 3 Fancast – Part 2 🎭
Welcome back, adventurers! Last time, we debated the perfect fan cast for three of Baldur’s Gate 3’s beloved (and despised) characters. This time, we’re diving even deeper into the party lineup—tackling the unstoppable force that is Lae’zel and the criminally underwritten Wyll. We also dive into the importance of accessibility in gaming.
Alex, Matt and Jem are once again joined by BG3 superfan, Fin, to discuss everything from modding chaos to confessions of a Mind Flayer romance. (no judgment... oka...
213 - Baldur's Gate 3 Fan Casting Part 1 - Halsin, Shadowheart & Gale! Feat. Fin
🎲 Baldur’s Gate 3 Fancast – Part 1 🎭
Welcome back to Gaming the System, the podcast where three intersectional feminists take a deep dive into the world of gaming! In this special Baldur’s Gate 3 fancast series, Matt, Alex, and Jem are joined by returning guest Fin, a certified BG3 superfan (with 693 hours logged, an Astarion tattoo, and a hand-stitched Astarion blanket—yes, really).
Together, we’re fan-casting our dream actors for the game’s iconic characters, sharing unhinged devotion, surprising insights, and plenty of feminist critique along the way.
🏆 Episode Highlights
🎮 Hour Count Confessions...
