Reviews
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“The perfect casual video game podcast - y’all will be missed! Anyone coming to the show after the end, the backlog is great. Two interesting perspectives on the gaming industry and nice voices to listen to. The Optional discord server is a great place too, a very welcoming and thoughtful...”Read full review »
Ianmcg777 via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
01/31/22
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“Originally from the Bx; now working for State gov in upstate NY. You guys remind me of home. Hit me up if you ever need a third homey. nmendez79 (psn). Edit 9/27 - Glad you guys are back. Still a great show. I like the old intro music.”
jbjsekhf;aef'kaw via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
11/10/21
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“Essential for anyone who listens to game podcasts. Wonderful to hear some from perspectives other than white dudes. Great angles that cover more than just gameplay and reaches to contextualize the way games fit into culture in a broader sense than most podcasts.”
Martin of Madness via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
07/22/20
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“The Optional is one of my favorite gaming podcasts. The guests are great and Paul & Cam are wonderful hosts.”
rowex3yourboat via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
07/21/20
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“The highest compliment I can give The Optional Podcast is that it’s enriched the way I interact with the entertainment in my life.
The Optional has quickly become the main gaming pod in my rotation, and I have never been happier with my read on culture, games and entertainment than since I’ve...”Read full review »
Dannykons via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
07/21/20
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“In my opinion The Optional Podcast is one of the best gaming podcast out there. They come from a different perspective, and have very insightful conversations about Intersectionality in gaming one of the highlights of listening to the podcast for me is the synergy between the hosts. It always...”Read full review »
Mikey&Steph via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
07/09/20
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“Brilliant hosts. Love hearing these dudes talk about games and gaming culture.
Listen to this show. Paul and Cam know what's up, and they get fantastic guests that will expand your horizons.”Read full review »
irrezolut via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
06/04/20
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“One of the few podcasts that feels like it’s in conversation with my life, and definitely the only gaming podcast to do this. The long format lets me savor each episode throughout the week. In light of everything going on in the world, Paul and Cam (and their well-chosen guests) ask for more from...”Read full review »
charlisse via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
06/02/20
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“This show is so dope. It’s a perfect combination of smart games analysis and cultural commentary. They don’t shy away from some of the most important topics in the industry and they seem to always strike exactly the right tone. They also get great guests and those conversations are always on...”Read full review »
zombiekale via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
06/01/20
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“Informative, entertaining and talking about things that really matter”
stotil via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
05/27/20
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“I'm new to the pod but so far enjoying every second. Audibly it's well produced. I look forward to tuning into many more episodes. Save the drama for the llama and keep spotlighting voices.”Read full review »
LEVST3R via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
05/23/20
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“It’s genuinely hilarious that none of these people know that Cyberpunk and all it’s factions were created by Mike Pondsmith, a black man!! 🤣🤣 Haha so much for that discussion 🤷♂️😂.
Also this Cam guy isn’t excited for the Xbox reveal..... because of Ghosts of Tsushima....a PlayStation 4...”Read full review »
John B., Esq. via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
05/07/20
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“The Optional’s mission of covering the industry through the lens of people of color, whom are typically discouraged from entering or staying in the industry, is so vital. It’s wonderful for fellow marginalized people to hear the thoughts, analyses, and points (both funny and intellectual) made in...”Read full review »
Yennefers via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
05/05/20
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“I look forward to this podcast every week. Paul and Cam are great hosts! Every week it feels like you’re just hanging with some buds chatting about games, media, or whatever.”
blairbodnar via Apple Podcasts ·
Canada ·
04/21/20
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“It’s nice to find a podcast that isn’t the usual white guy talks about games stuff. Nice to hear people of color talking about games and nerding over stuff I’ve. Love to see the representation, great show, listen to it”
Phobus23 via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
03/05/20
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“Love these guys! Great hosts and likeable characters. It is fun to hear their opinions on videogames.”
m.srep2 via Apple Podcasts ·
Germany ·
01/20/20
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“The Optional is my favorite gaming podcast (of many in my regular rotation). The guys and their occasional guests bring much-needed authenticity, positivity, and inclusivity to the games media landscape. Come for thoughts on games, leave with thoughts on life; laugh throughout the entire...”Read full review »
ebbenflows via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
01/18/20
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“NYC culture from a couple of chill dudes talking games.”
sw3dge via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
01/15/20
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“You know the “one” where you’re watching or listening to something and you’re so immersed in the program that you begin to chime in as if you were there? Yeah, that. This is that kind of show, I find myself laughing and chatting along with each episode. The guys are really into what they are...”Read full review »
Munzolito via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
10/24/19
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“Two cool kids from NYC get together each week and give us an entertaining, informative and relevant gaming/popular culture podcast. Complete with insightful commentary and light-hearted fun the listening experience is akin to being in the room while friends chat and you're just having a good...”Read full review »
nomad828 via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
08/29/19
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“Paul and Cam bring an amazing perspective to gaming. They are inviting, informative, and inclusive. I quickly download and listen to new episodes when they become available.”
One Humble Opinion via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
07/29/19
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“The gaming community is oversaturated by conservative bigots who don't have a life outside of their reddit cultural bubble. The Optional Podcast is one of a growing number of progressive gaming media commentators that live in reality. That reality is one where the production, conditions,...”Read full review »
realnerdsdontkill via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
07/12/19
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“A truly wonderful gaming podcast. These guys actually love games and are so positive and chill. This pod is so much different from most other gaming podcast.”
Roo1289 via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
06/25/19
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“This podcast is a much needed respite from the cynical, pessimistic world of games criticism. The hosts are funny and offer fresh perspectives of the world of video games.”
ScambinoBS via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
06/09/19
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“im so glad yall exist, i feel acknowledged jus listening to this, it feels like a regular conversation i’d have with my own friends, i support u so much!”
giangabrielpr via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
05/20/19
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“If you are looking for thoughtful, self aware, and responsible gaming discussions you are here. These guys never shy away from deep subject matter. They also know how to have a good time while steering us through the ups and downs of the past week in gaming. Also, their music recommendations have...”Read full review »
Perspective12 via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
05/13/19
“I used to listen to over a dozen gaming podcasts a week, but it ended up feeling like an overload of sameness. I've cut that down a lot in recent years, and The Optional is a standout that has stuck with me.
Listening to Paul and Cam chat about games and the culture around them is like...”Read full review »
Lawnch via Apple Podcasts ·
Australia ·
05/09/19
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“I love the Optional Podcast. Must listen if you are a fan of real game commentary. In my heavy rotation with Waypoint Radio and Spawn on Me.”
Osgravy via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/25/19
“You won’t get the same perspective anywhere else. As a game dev, it’s thought provoking to hear from people on the opposite coast with such a different background. But every episode is an easy, relaxed listen.”
James Palermo via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/18/19
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“more than just a games podcast, every episode has that homey feeling, like you're hanging out. the best parts are when you hear "sorry but we're gonna get serious for a sec"
Switched from patreon to anchor for 'em. made an apple account for 'em. they're worth it!”Read full review »
11l1l1l1l1l1l1l1l1l1l1l1l1l1l via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/17/19
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“There are plenty of gaming podcasts out there, but few like this one. It's unapologetically New York—opinions are strong, and constantly tested. There’s a diverse arrangement of shades behind the mic and their views on the industry reflect that. You won’t regret giving this one a listen.”Read full review »
RomanMF via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/16/19
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“I've searched a very long time for a game podcast that not only keeps me informed, but keeps me laughing episode after episode. The Optional was a blessing to the ears! Paul and Cam keeps it light, humorous, and real as they journey us through the weekly intrigues, controversies, failures and...”Read full review »
RenCoolius via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/10/19
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“A great dynamic and for someone like me who is learning about the gaming life, it’s very informative!”
ElleArticulates via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/10/19
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“The chillest media/entertainment/gaming podcast recently! It’s nice to have some voices that feel like a lot more than dudes who are just trying to sell me a game podcast about my tastes. Every time I’m done listening I just feel like I’ve had a nice chat with good friends who like everything I...”Read full review »
Pierre Oliver via Apple Podcasts ·
Canada ·
04/10/19
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“These guys are great, authentic and humorous. Great views on games, pop culture, comics and movies. I would recommend them for anyone who likes a great listen and truthful reviews”
Lejus via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/09/19
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“Video game commentary magic ✨”
bmark417 via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/09/19
“Listening to Cam and Paul talk feels like being invited into a group of close friends. Plus, don't you want a podcast that can both deconstruct the politics of The Division 2 and discuss a ninja arm that distributes straight-to-DVD copies of another Blade sequel?”Read full review »
TheOneDreaming via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/09/19
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“Feels like I’m in the (Sondo/Ross) High School cafeteria cutting it up about gaming. Great way to start the week. Keep ‘em coming!”
Candido Crespo via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/08/19
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“love it! need more diverse voices in games, the way they talked about division 2 was very fair despite it being a difficult topic”
M374726271 via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/08/19
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“When you search for The Optional on iTunes, another podcast comes up. While there are inherent similarities to these two podcasts, the spirit behind them couldn't be more different. The Optional represents a new wave of diverse, thoughtful, creative conversations happening around video games,...”Read full review »
LePack via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
08/06/18
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“These guys have great chemistry and I’m highly entertained by the stories and great news that they bring to the listeners.”
DocObryan via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
06/25/18
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“I found this podcast from an ad on Spawn on Me and decided to give it a try. The hosts have a great dynamic and their show is a lot of fun!”
Gizmoto_16 via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
04/17/18
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“They deserve more attention. Keep going guys”
Oujiz via Apple Podcasts ·
France ·
09/20/17
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“I love this podcasts, very conversational, good chemistry and relatable hosts.”
Ashtaar via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
08/31/17
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“I found The Optional while figuring out what games to play on my new 3DS, and man, this podcast is a true gem. It checks every box for me: regular schedule, great sound quality, excellent format, original content, steady pacing, and, most importantly, relevant, interesting, and insightful...”Read full review »
LucasBrooks via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
03/11/17
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“I recently subscribed after a friend recommended I give the show a listen. I found it quite entertaining. The hosts are relatable and funny. I am happy to have this podcast in my weekly line up during my drives to and from work. Keep up the good work! I look forward to hearing more from you guys.”
Airpop29 via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
01/11/17
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“Clicked on a Random episode and it was informative fun, Great Listen!”
Dro148 via Apple Podcasts ·
United States of America ·
01/09/17
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