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In episode 33 of Backwards Compatible, Lou and I dive deep into Star Wars: Republic Commando for the original Xbox. Released in 2005, this game bridged the gap between Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith, serving as a perfect tie-in to the Star Wars saga during a time when fans were eagerly anticipating the final chapter of the prequel trilogy. It also came on the heels of the Clone Wars animated series, making it an exciting addition to the Star Wars canon.

We break down what makes Republic Commando a standout title—especially on the original Xbox. Often hailed as a hidden gem (or simply a masterpiece if you’re a Star Wars fan), this game blends tight controls with an immersive atmosphere that feels quintessentially Star Wars. The squad mechanics were ahead of their time, and the witty banter from your clone trooper squadmates added both personality and levity to the intense missions.

From its immersive environments to its perfectly balanced mix of action and strategy, Republic Commando nails what it means to be part of the Star Wars universe. So grab your blaster, prep your squad, and buckle up for a deep dive into one of the best Star Wars games ever made!

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In episode 32 of "Backwards Compatible," we're thrilled to welcome back Odian Levy as we dive into the vibrant and inventive world of "Super Mario Bros. 3." After a short hiatus, we’re eager to explore this cornerstone of the Mario franchise, discussing everything from its innovative power-ups to the diverse array of worlds and the memorable Koopalings.

"Super Mario Bros. 3" wasn't just a game; it was a cultural phenomenon, heavily promoted through TV commercials and famously featured in the movie "The Wizard," which showcased its gameplay and teased its secrets well before many had the chance to play it. This extensive promotion helped cement its place in gaming history before most fans even held a controller.

During the episode, we marvel at the rapid evolution in gaming technology and design that took place between the release of the original "Super Mario Bros." and "Super Mario Bros. 3." It's astonishing to think about how, in just a few short years, Nintendo not only improved upon the original but revolutionized it with superior gameplay, graphics, sound, and creativity.

Join Odian and me as we delve into why "Super Mario Bros. 3" is often hailed as one of the greatest video games of all time, offering an unmatched blend of challenge, innovation, and fun that continues to influence the platforming genre decades later.

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In episode 31 of "Backwards Compatible," Lou and I return after a short break, ready to dive into a titan of wrestling video games: "WWF No Mercy" for the Nintendo 64. As part of our schedule update, we're now releasing episodes on Fridays, perfect for kicking off your weekend with a blast from the past!

"WWF No Mercy" stands out as one of the greatest wrestling games ever, celebrated for its robust customization options, smooth gameplay mechanics, and an extensive roster that vividly encapsulates the spirit of the WWF Attitude Era between 1999 and 2000. This game doesn’t just bring back the raw excitement of that era; it also serves as a detailed archive of the wrestlers and the match types that defined that time.

During this episode, we also discuss the broader context of professional wrestling during the game's release, including the looming closures of ECW and WCW, which marked a significant shift in the wrestling landscape. These events added a layer of historical significance to "WWF No Mercy," capturing a pivotal moment in wrestling history.

While "WWF No Mercy" did face some technical hurdles early on, such as a save glitch in initial cartridges, its significance goes beyond these flaws. The game has also become a favorite in the modding community, where enthusiasts continue to update and expand its features, ensuring it remains relevant and engaging.

Join Lou and me as we discuss the enduring legacy of "WWF No Mercy," its impact on fans and the modding community, and its reflection of the state of professional wrestling at the time. Tune in this Friday for a deep dive into wrestling history and video game legacy on "Backwards Compatible."

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