Kris, a teacher and Marvel fanboy, and Dave, a freelance writer and DC fanatic, love to talk about their nerdy passions: comic books, movies and television, and video games. Each week, they discuss nerdy news, recommend new media, and take a deep dive into one niche in nerd culture. “The Nerd Byword” also features interviews with industry greats and up and coming talent. New episodes release every Monday.
Episodes
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
Episode 199 of the Nerd Byword is finally here, and it's packed with engaging discussions and nerdy delights. In this episode, hosts Dave and Kris dive into the world of emulation and the ongoing legal battles between Nintendo and emulator developers. The episode also delves into the troubling trend of toxic fandoms influencing storytelling in movies and television and how some studios are forming "superfan focus groups" to guide production decisions.
The hosts also share their favorite nerdy finds during their break. Dave gushes over the remastered versions of the classic Tomb Raider games, while Kris revels in the revamped Age of Mythology, a game that combines strategy with mythological elements for a truly immersive experience.
The episode wraps up with the belated return of "Nerd Nightmare" with Kris' first exposure to the 2013 horror movie "You're Next." With engaging banter and insightful commentary, Episode 199 is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of pop culture, gaming, and storytelling.
Nerd News
Nintendo has stepped up its enforcement of its copyrights and trademarks
Variety article says movie studios are forming focus groups on fandom
Byword Big Talk
Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered
Age of Mythology Remastered
Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon
Rings of Power Season Two
Life is Strange: True Colors
Marvel's Ultimate Line
Nerd Nightmare
You're Next (2013)
Chapters
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:13 - Nintendo has stepped up its enforcement of its copyrights and trademarks
00:14:43 - Variety article says movie studios are forming focus groups on fandom
00:17:02 - Big Talk: Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered
00:32:11 - Big Talk: Age of Mythology Remastered
00:37:03 - Big Talk: Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon
00:46:30 - Big Talk: Rings of Power Season Two
00:54:45 - Big Talk: Life is Strange: True Colors
01:01:18 - Big Talk: Marvel's Ultimate Line
01:09:06 - Nerd Nightmare: You're Next
01:18:28 - Call to Action
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
Tuesday Oct 22, 2024
We're back with a deep dive into the unique and experimental world of DC's Tangent Comics from the late '90s. Imagine a universe where familiar names take on entirely new identities, offering a fresh and innovative take on beloved characters. From the Superman-like Atom to the hauntingly intriguing Green Lantern, these stories challenge the norms of traditional comic book storytelling.
But that's not all! We're also diving into the latest happenings in the comic and gaming industries. We're exploring the exciting new announcements in the Star Wars universe and the significant impact of the ongoing strike by video game actors. These performers, who bring life to our favorite games through voice and motion capture, are taking a stand for better pay and protection against generative AI technologies.
Whether you're a comic book aficionado, a Star Wars enthusiast, or a gaming guru, this episode has something for everyone. Join us as we explore these fascinating topics and share our nerd commendations, including a revisit to the beloved Percy Jackson book series and the emotionally engaging Life is Strange: True Colors game.
Nerd News
New Star Wars announcements
Video game actors are going on strike over AI concerns
Byword Big Talk
Tangent Comics
Nerd Commendations
Percy Jackson
Life is Strange: True Colors
Chapters
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:56 - New Star Wars announcements
00:09:04 - Video game actors are going on strike over AI concerns
00:17:02 - Tangent Comics!
00:57:51 - Nerd Commendation: Percy Jackson
00:45:40 - Nerd Commendation: Life is Strange - True Colors
01:07:13 - Call to Action
Tuesday Oct 15, 2024
Tuesday Oct 15, 2024
After a brief hiatus, the Nerd Byword podcast is back with a bang, diving deep into the world of comics and the changes that are desperately needed within its canon. As we approach our milestone 200th episode, we've taken a moment to reflect on what aspects of our favorite comic book characters are driving us insane and what needs to be done to evolve these stories for the better.
In this latest episode, we explore the concept of "emergency character development," focusing on the changes we'd like to see in iconic characters like Batman and Spider-Man. Dave and Kris share their thoughts on why Bruce Wayne's character might need a break, delve into Peter Parker's perpetual employment issues, and discuss the potential for Martian Manhunter to gain more popularity by exploring his long-lived history on Earth and his shape-shifting abilities.
Join us as we dissect these ideas and more, offering our take on what needs to change to keep comics fresh and engaging. Listen to the full episode now and share your thoughts on what changes you'd like to see in your favorite comic book characters.
Nerd News
New Life is Strange game about to drop
TMNT: Mutants Unleashed announced
Byword Big Talk
Emergency Character Development
Nerd Commendations
Beverly Hills Cop 4
Diabolo 4
Chapters
00:00:00 - This week's episode was recorded a couple of months back
00:02:50 - New Life is Strange game about to drop
00:13:16 - TMNT: Mutants Unleashed announced
00:15:43 - Byword Big Talk - Emergency Character Development
00:57:51 - Nerd Commendation: Beverly Hills Cop - Axl F
01:04:29 - Nerd Commendation: Diabolo 4
01:07:13 - Call to Action
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Spider-Man, one of the most beloved superheroes of all time, has a rich history filled with various origin stories. In our latest podcast episode, we dive into three iconic versions of Spider-Man's origins to see which one stands out the most. Join us as we explore the classic tale by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko, John Byrne's Chapter One, and the modern retelling by Brian Michael Bendis and Mark Bagley in Ultimate Spider-Man.
In addition to our Spider-Man discussion, we also cover the latest nerd news. We talk about the new trailer for Batman Caped Crusader, a spiritual successor to the beloved animated series, set to debut on Amazon Prime. We also discuss Nintendo's plans for the Switch 2, expected to launch next year. All this, plus brand-new nerd commendations. So what are you waiting for? Listen now!
Nerd News
Trailer for Batman: Caped Crusader released
Switch 2 aims to avoid supply issues, scalpers may face legal action
Byword Big Talk
Spider-Man origin stories showdown
Nerd Commendations
Doom #1 by Sanford Greene & Jonathan Hickman
Chapters
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:01:04 - First trailer for Batman Caped Crusader has released
00:06:38 - Nintendo prepares for Switch 2 release with some new strategies
00:13:16 - Spider-Man origin stories deep dive
00:53:40 - Nerd Commendation: Doom #1 by Sanford Greene & Jonathan Hickman
00:56:04 - Nerd Commendation: 2Ship2Harkinian
01:00:42 - Call to Action
Tuesday Jul 23, 2024
Tuesday Jul 23, 2024
Ever wondered what would happen if DC villains faced off against Marvel heroes? In this week's episode of the Nerd Byword podcast, we dive into the ultimate crossover, exploring the possibilities of swapping villains between the big two comic book giants.
The episode kicks off with an exciting discussion about the latest set photos from James Gunn's upcoming Superman movie. The episode also touches on the darker side of fandom, discussing the recent controversies surrounding the Star Wars series The Acolyte.
But the real fun begins when Kris and Dave delve into their main segment: swapping villains between DC and Marvel. Dave, a DC aficionado, pairs up three DC villains with Marvel heroes, while Kris, a mighty Marvelite, does the opposite. The matchups are both surprising and intriguing, offering a fresh perspective on these iconic characters. All this, plus brand-new nerd commendations. Joins us for another fun dive into the world of nerds!
Nerd News
Set photos reveal Superman, Lois Lane
Star Wars fans continue to be the absolute worst
Byword Big Talk
Dc vs. Marvel villain swap
Nerd Commendations
Chapters
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:37 - Superman set photos have leaked, revealing Superman and Lois
00:07:48 - Worst segments of Star Wars fandom fuel hate speech online
00:16:21 - Villain swap: DC vs. Marvel
00:40:57 - Nerd Commendation: Super Mario 64 Render96
00:47:26 - Nerd Commendation: Spider-Man Remastered
00:50:21 - Call to Action
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
In the latest episode of the Nerd Byword, we embark on a thrilling journey through the origins of one of the most iconic superheroes of all time: Superman. With the excitement building for James Gunn's upcoming Superman movie, we decided to delve deep into three of the most significant origin stories of the Man of Steel and determine which one stands the test of time.
Superman has had numerous origin stories over the years, but we focused on three that have left an indelible mark on the character: Man of Steel by John Byrne and Dick Giordano, Superman Birthright by Mark Waid and Leinil Francis Yu, and Superman Secret Origin by Geoff Johns and Gary Frank. Each of these stories has its unique take on how Clark Kent became Superman, and they reflect the eras in which they were written. Which one reigns supreme?
In addition to our Superman deep dive, we also cover the latest news on Marvel's Blade and discuss the recent Xbox Game Showcase. All this, plus brand-new nerd commendations. What are you waiting for? Press "play" now!
Nerd News
Marvel's Blade movie loses its second director
Microsoft's Xbox Games Showcase highlights
Byword Big Talk
Superman Origin Stories Showdown
Nerd Commendations
Doctor Strange by Jed McKay
Emudeck for emulation enthusiasts
Chapters
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:01:17 - Marvel's Blade has lost its second director, Jan Dimange
00:07:39 - Xbox Showcase dropped some impressive trailers
00:16:51 - Superman origin stories deep dive
01:05:27 - Nerd Commendation: Doctor Strange by Jed McKay
01:09:33 - Nerd Commendation: Emudeck
01:14:27 - Call to Action
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
In the latest episode of the Nerd Byword podcast, we dive deep into Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire. This film, a continuation of the Monsterverse saga, brings together two of the most iconic kaiju for another epic showdown. But does it live up to the hype?
However, the episode isn't just about the kaiju clash. Dave and Kris also delve into the sparse but intriguing news about the Wonder Woman video game. Announced back in 2021, the game has been eerily quiet since its initial teaser. In addition, the episode touches on other nerdy news and recommendations. From the latest developments in the MCU to exciting new comic book releases, Dave and Kris keep listeners updated on all things nerdy.
Whether you're a die-hard Godzilla fan or just looking for a fun movie review, this episode has something for everyone. Don't miss out on this epic episode of the Nerd by Byword podcast!
Nerd News
Wonder Woman game’s troubled development
Dafne Keen will not be in Deadpool & Wolverine
Byword Big Talk
Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire
Nerd Commendations
The Ultimates #1 by Deniz Camp & Juan Frigeri
Chapters
00:00:00 - Intro
00:00:59 - Wonder Woman video game news
00:09:48 - Deadpool cameo denied
00:13:21 - Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire review
00:45:45 - Nerd Commendation: Ultimates #1
00:54:42 - Nerd Commendation: The Acolyte
00:58:43 - Call to Action
Wednesday Jun 12, 2024
Wednesday Jun 12, 2024
Have you ever been so passionate about a TV show that you just had to make your friend watch it? That’s exactly what happened this week on the Nerd Byword! In episode 192, Dave and Kris dive into each other’s favorite TV shows, and the results are nothing short of entertaining.
First up, Dave introduces Kris to the world of Doctor Who, specifically the era of Matt Smith as the Doctor. Dave chose the episode “The Eleventh Hour” as Kris’s introduction to Matt Smith’s Doctor. This episode is significant because it marks the beginning of Smith’s tenure and is often considered a great entry point for newcomers.
On the flip side, Kris introduced Dave to the hilariously bizarre world of What We Do in the Shadows. This mockumentary-style show follows a group of vampires living in Staten Island. Kris chose an episode featuring the Baron, a terrifying yet comically awkward vampire overlord.
So, if you’re looking for TV show recommendations or just want to hear two friends geek out over their favorite series, this episode of Nerd Byword is a must-listen.!
Nerd News
Raul Kohli was in the final running to become Reed Richards in the MCU
Netflix's The Witcher reveals Liam Hemsworth as the new Geralt
Byword Big Talk
Doctor Who - The 11th Hour
What We Do in the Shadows - The Baron's Night Out
Nerd Commendations
Doctor Who: Empire of the Wolf by Jody Houser & Roberta Ingranata
The Spectacular Spider-Men by Greg Weisman & Humberto Ramos
Chapters
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:12 - Raul Kohli confirmed he was in final running to play Reed Richards
00:09:13 - Netflix has cast Liam Hemsworth as the Witcher
00:16:26 - Byword Big Talk - TV Show Swap
00:17:34 - Doctor Who - The 11th Hour
00:32:36 - What We Do in the Shadows - The Baron's Night Out
00:45:11 - Nerd Commendation: Doctor Who - Empire of the Wolf
00:49:11 - Nerd Commendation: The Spectacular Spider-Men
00:53:43 - Call to Action
Tuesday Jun 04, 2024
Tuesday Jun 04, 2024
Have you ever caught yourself feeling nostalgic for a time that's not even past yet? That's the mind-bending concept we're diving into on the latest episode of the Byword. This week, we're toying with the idea of a Stranger Things-esque show that's not looking back at the 1980s, but forward to how the 2020s might be remembered.
Imagine this: a series that captures the essence of what today will mean to us decades from now. Will we reminisce about the rise of TikTok, the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, or the gaming revolution led by titles like Assassin's Creed Shadows? Our latest episode is not just a walk down a hypothetical memory lane—it's a full-on sprint into the speculative future.
We also tackle the latest in nerd news, including the disappointing cancellation of the Silk: Spider Society series on Amazon Prime and the much-anticipated Assassin's Creed Shadows set in feudal Japan. But it's not all serious business—we share some hearty laughs over Rift Tracks' take on Birdemic: Shock and Terror, and muse about the death of monoculture in a world where personalized algorithms define our entertainment. This episode is a love letter to the present, a reflection on how today's culture might be viewed through the rose-tinted glasses of tomorrow.
Nerd News
Silk: Spider Society series canceled…for having too much Silk?
Assassin's Creed Shadows backlash causes backlash
Byword Big Talk
Flash Forward: Potential 2020s Nostalgia...today!
Nerd Commendations
Doctor Who: Space Babies on Disney Plus
Rifftrax' Birdemic: Shock and Terror
Chapters
(01:12) Amazon's Silk: Spider Society series has been cancelled
(08:46) The upcoming Assassin's Creed Shadows has faces odd backlash
(18:16) Flash Forward: Potential 2020s Nostalgia...today!
(51:14) Commendation: Doctor Who on Disney Plus
(55:30) Commendation: Rifftrax' Birdemic
(01:00:27) Credits & Call to Action
Tuesday May 28, 2024
Tuesday May 28, 2024
Are you ready to hop into a DeLorean and travel through the vibrant history of comic books? That's exactly what awaits you in the latest episode of The Nerd Byword. Episode 190 is not just a podcast; it's a time capsule that takes you on a journey from the revolutionary 1960s to the innovative 2020s, exploring the comic book runs that have defined each decade.
Kris and Dave, our dynamic duo of nerddom, delve into the pages of history, highlighting their personal favorite comic book runs. From the inception of Marvel's renaissance with Stan Lee and Jack Kirby to the modern masterpieces by Al Ewing, this episode is a treasure trove for comic book aficionados and newcomers alike.
But this isn't just about the past. The hosts also tackle current nerd news, discussing the latest MCU casting rumors and Nintendo's battle against emulation. Whether you're a die-hard fan of Spider-Man, X-Men, or just love a good story, Episode 190 is a must-listen. It's a celebration of the art, the storytelling, and the characters that have captivated us for decades.
Nerd News
Giancarlo Esposito joins the MCU...and not as Charles Xavier
Nintendo nukes Yuzu-related GitHub repositories
Byword Big Talk
Comic Book Runs through the Decades
Nerd Commendations
Blood Hunt by Jed MacKay & Pepe Larraz
Superman: Secret Identity by Kurt Busiek and Stuart Immonen
Chapters
(01:09) Actor Giancarlo Esposito hints at mysterious Marvel character debut
(03:59) Nintendo is going after Switch emulators with DMCA takedown notices
(10:25) Comic Book Runs through the Decades
(01:07:57) Commendation: Blood Hunt by Jed MacKay & Pepe Larraz
(01:11:16) Commendation: Superman: Secret Identity by Kurt Busiek and Stuart Immonen
(01:14:04) Credits and Call to Action