Checkpoint

6 Sep 2016

The Dating Game(s)

Video Games

This week on the show, we’re talking all about Visual Novels and Dating Sims! These genres are hugely popular in Japan, but in the west they are niche and often don’t even get released! These games often feature a large amount of dialogue and static images, and can have a range of content that is often quite adult. We talk about some of our favourites and dissect the genre. What makes them fall into the video game category? What sort of people play these games? Why are they so popular in Japan but not in Australia?

Also this week, we have a Nintendo Direct to discuss that was very 3DS focused, along with reviews of Disney Art Academy from Viv, and a review all about battling titans on an epic scale – Attack on Titan: Wings of Freedom! Luke also spent some time with Bandai Namco and discusses his thoughts around upcoming RPG/Minecraft hybrid, Dragon Quest Builders! It’s all here on a busy episode of your favourite gaming show!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:52 — 52.1MB)

Subscribe or Follow Us: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Android | iHeartRadio | Email | Deezer | RSS

26 Feb 2026

Pokémon’s 30th anniversary

Games & Hobbies, Other Games, Tech News, Technology, Video Games

Join Elliot, Luke, Edie, and James in this episode of Checkpoint on JOY where they celebrate Pokémon's 30th anniversary.   Catch the ...

24 Feb 2026

Up To Date: Phil Spencer retires from Xbox

Games & Hobbies, Other Games, Tech News, Technology, Video Games

Join Elliot, Luke, Edie, and James in this episode of Checkpoint on JOY where they talk about Phil Spencer retiring ...

19 Feb 2026

Couples gaming

Games & Hobbies, Other Games, Tech News, Technology, Video Games

Join Luke, Charlie, Edie, and Bree in this episode of Checkpoint on JOY where they talk about couples gaming. Catch the ...