Best ProfNoctis Podcasts (2026)

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Gavin Verhey Interview | How Final Fantasy CHANGED Magic: The Gathering Forever 1:21:32

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3M ago1:21:32

1:21:32

Magic meets Final Fantasy! In this episode, Wade (ProfNoctis), Evan, and Nick sit down with Magic: The Gathering principal designer Gavin Verhey to unpack how the Final Fantasy collaboration came to life—and why “every card is an invitation.” What we cover: -Gavin’s origin story (from 11-year-old aspiring designer to Principal Designer) -How Univer…

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Final Fantasy Tactics Remake Review – Why This 30-Year-Old Game Still Matters 54:26

3M ago54:26

54:26

Step back into Ivalice with us! In this episode of The ProfNoctis Show, Evan and I dive into our spoiler-free review of Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles—Square Enix’s long-awaited remaster of the legendary tactical RPG. We cover: -Presentation & performance – how the visuals, voice acting, and sound reimagine a classic. -Quality of lif…

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Prof Reviews Wuchang Fallen Feathers! 53:23

5M ago53:23

53:23

In this episode, Prof Noctis and Evan discuss the new game Wuchong: Fallen Feathers, a Souls-like action RPG set in a richly detailed Chinese-inspired world. They explore the game's mechanics, themes, and the unique challenges it presents to players. The conversation delves into the significance of the game's setting during the late Ming dynasty, t…

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The Switch 2 Is Here. But Why Does Nintendo Still Get a Pass? | PNWS Ep. 54 1:27:30

6M ago1:27:30

1:27:30

In this special 53rd episode of our show, Evan and Professor Noctis dive deep into the magic of Nintendo and the release of the Switch 2. From first impressions and hardware design to childhood nostalgia, Joy-Con drift, and digital ownership—we’re unpacking why Nintendo continues to capture our imaginations... and when it lets us down. 🎮 Topics Inc…

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Cloud vs. Sephiroth Starter Deck Showdown | MTG x Final Fantasy Starter Guide | PNWS Ep. 53 1:30:54

6M ago1:30:54

1:30:54

Picked up the Final Fantasy Starter Decks in Magic: The Gathering and don’t know where to start? You’re not alone. This video is for you! In this video, a 30-year MTG veteran, Nick Smith, and I (Professor Noctis) are going to dive into the Cloud (Red/White Aggro) and Sephiroth (Blue/Black Control) Starter Decks. We’ll walk you through: -How to play…

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Hands-On at SGF 2025: Prof's 13 Favorite Games | PNWS Ep. 52 1:06:38

7M ago1:06:38

1:06:38

It was my first Summer Game Fest 2025 and it blew me away. In this episode of The ProfNoctis Weekly Show, we're breaking down everything I played at the event! From Capcom’s incredible showcase to surprise indie gems, I’ll walk you through 12 hands-on demos—featuring deep dives into all the games I played. Plus, I'll discuss Death Stranding 2 and C…

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Final Fantasy Comes to Magic: The Gathering's Commander Decks! | PNWS Ep. 51 2:07:35

7M ago2:07:35

2:07:35

Join Professor Noctis as he dives into the world of Magic: the Gathering's Final Fantasy Commander Decks. In this educational video, we'll be unlocking the lore and strategies in the four FF-inspired Commander Decks. Whether you're a seasoned Final Fantasy fanatic or a lifelong Magic fan, this video is perfect for anyone interested in learning more…

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Gamers in the Classroom: Final Fantasy in Higher Ed | ProfNoctis PAX East 2025 | PNWS Ep. 50 51:26

7M ago51:26

51:26

Final Fantasy isn’t just a game—it’s a gateway to deep conversations about philosophy, religion, grief, and identity. At the University of Alabama, I’ve built entire classes around titles like Final Fantasy XV, XVI, and VII Rebirth, and I’m sharing how games can transform the college classroom. In this panel from PAX East 2025, we’ll explore how st…

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The Last of Us: Did Season 2 Waste Its Best Moment?” LOU s2e7 Theme Analysis | PNWS Ep 49 1:26:15

7M ago1:26:15

1:26:15

The Last of Us Season 2 just ended… and Mama Noctis summed it up best: “Are they all dead?” In this final recap of the season, Prof Noctis and Evan reflect on the biggest risks and missed opportunities of Episode 7—and whether this season finale truly delivered. We talk about: • Why the game’s most powerful moment doesn’t work on screen (yet) • Wha…

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Did Neil Druckmann Just Give Us the Best TLOU Episode Ever? | Episode 6 Recap | PNWS Ep. 48 1:11:21

8M ago1:11:21

1:11:21

Is this the best episode of the entire series? Wade (aka ProfNoctis) and Evan break down everything from The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 6 — an emotional, beautifully written journey through Joel and Ellie's shared memories. From the astronaut scene to the slow-burning truth behind their fallout, this episode delivers some of the most poignant mom…

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Is Ellie Losing Her Humanity—or Just Badly Written? | The Last of Us Recap | PNWS Ep. 47 1:11:29

8M ago1:11:29

1:11:29

In this week’s episode of The Last of Us Season 2, Prof Noctis and Evan tackle one of the most debated questions of the series so far: Does Ellie feel flat this season? Or is something deeper going on under the surface? We break down Episode 5, Feel Her Love, from its cold open to the brutal basement finale—covering: Why Ellie’s stoic performance m…

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The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 4 Breakdown: Trust, Turnstiles, and That Guitar Scene | PNWS Ep. 46 59:03

8M ago59:03

59:03

What does it mean to trust someone in a world falling apart? Join Prof Noctis and Evan as they dive deep into Episode 4 of The Last of Us Season 2 — “Day One.” From Isaac’s cold open and the introduction of the Scars to Ellie and Dina’s rooftop moment, we explore the layered themes of grief, intimacy, loyalty, and the human cost of survival. 🔍 Topi…

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Grief, Growth, and Gathering Storms - TLOU S2E3 Recap | PNWS Ep 45 1:02:59

8M ago1:02:59

1:02:59

In Episode 3 of The Last of Us Season 2 ("The Path"), we step into a quieter, heavier chapter — one full of grief, reflection, and the growing tension that promises to erupt in violence. In this full recap and analysis, we unpack: -The aftermath of Joel’s death and Ellie’s emotional shutdown -How Gail challenges Ellie’s denial and forces her to con…

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Last of Us Season 2 Episode 2 Analysis | PNWS Ep. 44 54:34

9M ago54:34

54:34

FULL SPOILERS AHEAD! In this breakdown of The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 2, ProfNoctis and Evan unpack one of the most brutal, unforgettable moments in the series so far. From Abby’s monologue to Ellie’s final goodbye, we analyze the emotional intersection of revenge, loss, and what it means to be human in a world this broken. We explore: – The s…

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The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 1 Breakdown – "Future Days" Explained | PNWS Ep. 43 1:32:14

9M ago1:32:14

1:32:14

The Last of Us Season 2 has officially begun, and we're kicking off with a full deep-dive into Episode 1: "Future Days." In this recap and analysis, ProfNoctis and Evan break down: -The emotional return to Jackson -New characters and their mysterious motivations -Joel's therapy sessions (!) -Ellie's jiu-jitsu skills and character growth -The meanin…

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Hope vs DisPear in FF7 Rebirth – Deep Dive with Aleczandxr | Final Fantasy Fridays 1:40:52

9M ago1:40:52

1:40:52

Join ProfNoctis and Evan as they sit down with acclaimed video essayist Aleczandxr for a powerful deep dive into the soul of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. In this special DLC installment of the Rebirth Lecture Series, we explore how hope, despair, and the human spirit are intricately woven into the game's narrative. From Aerith’s heartbreaking choices…

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"Why Tifa is More Important Than Ever in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth" w/ SubTXT | Final Fantasy Fridays 1:41:10

9M ago1:41:10

1:41:10

"Tifa represents more than just memory—she represents the heart of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth’s true message. In this deep and thoughtful conversation with @SubTXT_ following the release of his amazing video ( • Why FF7 Rebirth Didn’t End How ANYONE... . During the chat, we talk about his origin story in storytelling, the ending of Rebirth, and-- mo…

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Was Joel Right? | The Last of Us Season 1 Episode 9 Finale Deep Dive | PNWS Ep. 42 45:25

9M ago45:25

45:25

Joel’s choice changed everything. In this finale deep dive, ProfNoctis and Evan unpack the philosophy behind Joel’s decision, Ellie’s search for meaning, and what it means for Season 2. Was he right — or horribly wrong? ___________ The Last of Us Lecture Series: Join me, Professor Noctis-- a real-life professor of religion, myth, and video games-, …

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Countdown to Season 2: The Religious Lessons in The Last of Us S1:E8 | PNWS Ep. 41 49:39

9M ago49:39

49:39

The countdown to season 2 continues with a new recap! In this episode, we examine cult behavior through the story of David and the cannibals! Join me, Professor Noctis-- a real-life professor of religion, myth, and video games-, this spring for an in-depth exploration of The Last of Us in our biggest lecture series yet! Following along with each ep…

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Understanding Grief in “Left Behind” Last of Us S1:E7 | PNWS Ep. 40 1:07:13

9M ago1:07:13

1:07:13

Explore the hidden depths of 'Left Behind' as the Kubler Ross model maps out Ellie's complex emotional landscape in a devastated world. _____________ Join me, Professor Noctis-- a real-life professor of religion, myth, and video games-, this spring for an in-depth exploration of The Last of Us in our biggest lecture series yet! Following along with…

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What Joel’s Breaking Point in the Last of Us Means for Us S1:E6 | PNWS Ep. 39 50:56

10M ago50:56

50:56

In this episode, Joel finally has a breakthrough in understanding his own trauma and how that impacts his relationship with Ellie. We discuss all the twists and turns in episode 6 of The Last of Us here! Join me, Professor Noctis-- a real-life professor of religion, myth, and video games-, this spring for an in-depth exploration of The Last of Us i…

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The Last of Us Season 2 details from the SXSW Panel & Season 1 Episode 5 Recap and Analysis | PNWS Ep. 38 1:20:08

10M ago1:20:08

1:20:08

In this episode, we explore the value of changing a beloved relationship in The Last of Us. Also, Prof gets too excited over Kathleen getting her just desserts. Join me, Professor Noctis-- a real-life professor of religion, myth, and video games-, this spring for an in-depth exploration of The Last of Us in our biggest lecture series yet! Following…

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Biomedical Ethics & The Last of Us with Dr. Jennifer Gleason and Season 1 Episode 4 Recap | PNWS Ep. 37 1:39:53

10M ago1:39:53

1:39:53

We are thrilled this week to bring you the Season 1 Episode 4 recap and analysis 00:00:14 for the Last of Us TV Show as well as an amazing interview with Dr. Jennifer Gleason 00:44:10. Dr. Gleason is a professor teaching philosophy and biomedical ethics at the University of Alabama and walks us through the foundations of the field and how to view c…

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Dr. Joshua Horn Interview on the Philosophy of The Last of Us & Season 1 Episode 3 Recap | PNWS Ep. 36 2:22:30

10M ago2:22:30

2:22:30

First, we recap Season 1 Episode 3 of the The Last of Us TV Show. Then, at 01:12:48 join us as we sit down with Dr. Joshua Horn, Professor of Philosophy at the University of Wisconsin- Steven Point and editor of The Last of Us and Philosophy, to discuss the philosophical concepts of the game and TV series. Whether you're a philosopher or just want …

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Dr. Anthony M. Bean Psychologist & Author plus Last of Us Episode 2 analysis | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 35 1:54:11

11M ago1:54:11

1:54:11

Join us for this episode as Dr. Anthony M. Bean, editor of "The Psychology of the Last of Us: Endure and Survive". To start the show we recap the main events and analyze Season 1 Episode 2 of the Last of Us Television Show. Next, Dr. Anthony Bean so kindly shared his time with us to discuss his career, video game history, and most of all the Psycho…

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What we can learn about crisis in our lives through the Last of Us episode 1 | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 34 2:08:17

11M ago2:08:17

2:08:17

Join us this week as we begin our Semester Series on the Last of Us! This episode we begin 00:00:38 with an overview of the events and themes of Episode 1 of the Max television show The Last of Us. Then we discuss the theme of how to handle crisis, preparedness, and what it says about our character as people in our theme discussion 01:10:24. We're …

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Just for the Podcast listeners: New format and release date for the Last of Us Semester 3:11

11M ago3:11

3:11

Hi everyone! Thanks for tuning into the podcast, this is just a few minutes of special time with our audio only listeners letting you know about the new format changes for this semester's programing. With the Last of Us television show recaps releasing on Youtube on Monday's, the lecture plays through the sections of the video game that correspond …

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Get Ready for The Last of Us! | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 33 8:38

11M ago8:38

8:38

In this week's episode, we're preparing for our next lecture series on The Last of Us! We share a new trailer for the series, and discuss what to expect out of it, including how you can prepare. The new lecture series starts the week of February 9th, and goes through season 2 of the new Max (formerly HBO) show. This is our biggest lecture series ye…

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Fantasian: The Final Fantasy We Never Got| ProfNoctis Show Ep. 32 44:20

11M ago44:20

44:20

On this week's episode, we discuss Fantasian: Neo Dimension-- the latest game from the famed creator of Final Fantasy, Hironobu Sakaguchi. We consider whether Fantasian is a spiritual successor to the franchise, or if it's the game we never got in the main series. Plus, we marvel over the beautiful backdrops in the game and consider the biggest que…

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How Life is Strange Perfectly Captures College Life | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 31 1:16:05

12M ago1:16:05

1:16:05

This week, Prof dives into his thrilling journey with Life is Strange: Double Exposure—his very FIRST taste of this iconic series! Is it the perfect starting point, or did Prof find himself completely adrift? Discover the answers here! The first half of the episode sparks a deep dive into Prof's thoughts inspired by the game, while the second half …

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Revisiting the Game that Changed RPGs Forever | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 30 1:42:00

12M ago1:42:00

1:42:00

This week's episode is all about the Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake! As Prof thinks about his time with the game, he examines the key themes of the story, while also considering the lessons that a player can expect to take from their time with it. There's also plenty for those who have no knowledge of Dragon Quest, including an epic diversion involv…

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4 Keys to Understanding FF7 Rebirth | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 29 1:52:34

12M ago1:52:34

1:52:34

This week on the ProfNoctis show, we wrap up the Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth Lecture Series, and you'll finally hear Prof's own thoughts and theories. A HUGE thanks to all our guests for making this incredible series possible. Go subscribe to every one of them! 00:00:00 -- Intro 00:01:44 -- Reflecting on the FF7R Lecture Series 00:27:07 -- Lessons f…

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Setting Goals That Change Your Life in 2025 | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 28 59:45

1y ago59:45

59:45

🎉 New Year, New Goals! | ProfNoctis Weekly Show 🎉 Join us for a special New Year’s episode of the ProfNoctis Weekly Show, featuring Evan (still rocking his Santa suit!) and Wade as they dive into a thoughtful, and vulnerable, discussion on goals, resolutions, and celebrating wins. Whether you're looking to recalibrate for the year ahead or rethink …

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A Christmas of Games | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 27 44:51

1y ago44:51

44:51

In this special BONUS episode, Prof and Evan talk about the games that put them in the holiday spirit, from Mario to Final Fantasy. They also remember games they received for Christmas and think about the memories that have stuck with them through the years. Then, they end with their mini-game stretch break?! Yep, that means you get ANOTHER episode…

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FF7R's Parent Problem w/ EyesOnBee | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 26 1:45:41

1y ago1:45:41

1:45:41

Today's episode features the thoughtful and terrific @eyesonbee ! We chat with her about her journey into content creation, what it's like to look at FF7R through a parental lens, and what she's most excited for in part 3. Enjoy! 00:00:00 -- Intro 00:01:41 -- Eyes On Bee's Origin 00:49:01 -- Minigame Stretch Break 00:56:44 -- FF7R's Parent Problem …

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Finding Fantasy with Phil Hartshorn and Aliya Will | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 25 2:17:52

1y ago2:17:52

2:17:52

In this heartwarming and insightful interview, we sit down with the inspiring duo, @PhilipHarts / @philiphartshorn and @AliyaWill ! Philip and Aliya share how the stories in their lives have influenced who they are and how their paths crossed. They open up about what it’s like to fall in love and build a life together. Philip reflects on the power …

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Leaving Midgar for Good: Finding Freedom in the Open World (with David Vinc)| ProfNoctis Show Ep. 24 1:49:10

1y ago1:49:10

1:49:10

Joining us on the show this week is the famed JRPG enthusiast, and utterly hilarious, @davidvinc ! We kick things off by diving into his astonishing treasure trove of RPG wisdom and even some vintage gaming magazines that narrate his incredible journey through life and content creation. We also learn why David appreciates the open-world escapism th…

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Sonic to Sephiroth: How Final Fantasy VII Recreated Genesis VII | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 23 2:13:19

1y ago2:13:19

2:13:19

Join us this week as we interview the thoughtful and dulcet Genesis VII aka Martin! Get to know him, his history with Sega and Sonic, and how he manages the demands of life with his creative output in the first part of our interview. Next, in our Mini Game Stretch Break you don't want to miss our plans to survive a postapocalyptic survival scenario…

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Seeing Art in Rebirth, with Tylor Hepner | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 22 1:41:07

1y ago1:41:07

1:41:07

Join us this week as we interview the talented and wise Tylor Hepner! Find out all about his journey as an artist and his experience with video games in the first part of our interview. Hop on in to the Mini-Game Stretch Break as we share how we experience and learn from video game culture. Finally, we wrap up with the second half of our interview …

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Considering Zack's Role in FF7 Rebirth with Sector 6 | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 21 2:07:45

1y ago2:07:45

2:07:45

Join us on this week's adventure as we interview popular Final Fantasy and RPG content creator @Sector6UK! We start our time together learning about his history with games back to his earliest consoles as a child, how he started creating content (with a huge shout out to the FF7 content produced by @4-8Productions so be sure to check them out too!)…

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What Research Reveals about FF7R with FFUnion | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 20 2:37:11

1y ago2:37:11

2:37:11

Join us this week as we interview Darryl from @FinalFantasyUnion ! Learn about the history of their channel in the first part of our conversation 0:01:12. We lament all about home repairs and DIY projects in our Mini Game Stretch Break 01:07:55. Finally, we explore his experience with Rebirth, their unique approach to tracking player progress in th…

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How BltzZ Became a Master of Combat and Community | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 19 1:36:03

1y ago1:36:03

1:36:03

Join us this week as we welcome the content and combat master, @BltzZ ! First, we learn all about the origins of his name, how video games were a part of growing up, and some of the lessons he's learned along the way. (00:01:02). Next, we expand our minds and get to know each other better in our Mini Game Stretch Break. Finally, we finalize the fan…

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How FF7R Makes (and Breaks) Us with Droogle and Shoop | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 18 2:00:55

1y ago2:00:55

2:00:55

Join us for an incredible episode as we welcome the dynamic duo, @Droogle and Shoop (https://twitch.tv/ridezeshoopuf)! In Part 1, we dive deep into their journey through content creation, their passion for Final Fantasy, and even how they met (00:01:24-00:41:45)! Next, we soar to new heights in our Mini Game Stretch Break (00:41:45-00:49:17). Final…

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Deciphering Sephiroth's Plan in FF7 Rebirth with Sleepezi | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 17 2:02:07

1y ago2:02:07

2:02:07

Join us this week for our fantastic and fun interview with prolific Final Fantasy VII video essayist @Sleepezi ! (00:01:24 - 00:54:23) We learn what drives him to make the types of videos and essays that he does, why and how he processes video games and movies, and his history with video games and film. You don't want to miss this week's mini-game …

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How FF7 Can Save a Person, with Lully Jo | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 16 1:27:15

1y ago1:27:15

1:27:15

Join us for another episode of the Prof Noctis Show where we are joined by the amazing @LullyJo ! Find out how Final Fantasy VII helped her find herself and her subsequent journey into content creation and reaction streaming (00:01:05-00:41:32). Next, we have a blast in our mini-game stretch break (00:41:32-00:50:07) and finally discuss her thought…

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FF7R and Quantum Mechanics w/ Jesse Cox | ProfNoctis Show Ep.15 2:26:45

1+ y ago2:26:45

2:26:45

This week we are joined by the spectacular Jesse Cox ( @jessecox )! Learn a little about his history as a teacher (00:01:03-00:23:31), his memories and experiences with John "Total Biscuit" Bane (00:23:31-00:29:31), and his work with the "Monster Prom" series (00:29:31-00:39:32). Then, Jesse shares some advice from his experience with content creat…

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Does FF7 Rebirth Mess with our Memories Too Much?" featuring FinalFanTV | ProfNoctis Show Ep. 14 2:00:51

1+ y ago2:00:51

2:00:51

Join us this week as we welcome the one and only @FinalFanTV , AKA the Warrior of Hype! Daniel brings the hype as we learn about his history with video games and the Final Fantasy franchise, as well as how he got started with his channel (00:01:16- 00:49:06). Next, you don't want to miss one of our most energetic Mini Game Stretch Breaks so far (00…

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Night Sky Prince Interview on Final Fantasy VII Remake's Privilege and Burden | Episode 13 2:04:41

1+ y ago2:04:41

2:04:41

Join us this week for a fantastic interview with popular content creator Ryan aka @TheNightSkyPrince . First, we learn about his journey to content creation and about how his Emo phase almost took him down another path (00:01:27-00:32:11). Find out about what special items from video games we would love to have to deal with our real life problems i…

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Breaking down Cloud's Breakdown with Bio-Roxas | Prof Noctis Weekly Show Episode 12 1:42:38

1+ y ago1:42:38

1:42:38

It's all about Psychology! On this week's episode of the Prof Noctis Show we learn all about @BioRoxas , a vtuber and popular Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts creator! Learn all about how Bio got his start, what a vtuber is, and how his mental health counseling background informs his perspective on games (00:01:27-00:26:57). During our Mini Game St…

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Making More Sense of FF7 Rebirth with SchrodingersBabySeal | ProfNoctis Show Ep.11 1:16:38

1+ y ago1:16:38

1:16:38

#ff7r #ff7rebirth #ff7 #ff7 #ff7r #ff7rebirth It's finally here! Part 2 of our interview with Schrodinger's Baby Seal (Clarke) kicks off with a recap of his theories on Final Fantasy VII Rebirth 00:00:00-00:23:04. Learn about everyone's advanced problem solving skills as it relates to our own television show ideas as we get to know one another bett…