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Cocktail Mode: Retro Games, Cocktails and Banter
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So it's come to this: A Cocktail Mode list episode!
Andy and Dave are ready to unleash their most ambitious, potentially most divisive, and almost certainly most overlong episode yet: Our Top 50 Retro Games!*
Did your favourite make it? Did we choose the same 25 games each? Did ANY Nintendo games make the cut? What is the meaning of that asterisk?
Listen in and find out!
Of course we have to shoe-horn in the usual Cocktail or two, but considering how much we struggle with finding drinks for a single game, how on earth are we going to manage for FIFTY!?
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
Friends of the show: (Not affiliated)
https://www.consolemad.co.uk/
https://www.amigalive.com/
https://www.diffordsguide.com/
This week on the Cocktail Mode podcast, we're bowing to one of the most unique and respected fighting games ever made: Bushido Blade on the original PS1!
Andy and Dave explore why this One-Hit Kill Samurai simulator remains a definitive Cult Classic. We break down the revolutionary mechanics that set this Squaresoft title apart from every other fighting game - no health bars, no time limits, just pure, sudden-death duel tension. We're talking body-part damage, the honour system, and why it's considered by many to be the best PS1 fighting game.
And finally, we tackle the all-important question: How do you pick a cocktail to match the honour, precision, and sudden violence of a samurai duellist?
Andy’s Cocktail
Dave’s Cocktail
Friends of the show (not affiliated):
Torinak
Amiga Live
https://www.consolemad.co.uk/
Welcome back to the Cocktail Mode podcast, where we're pairing the ultimate dystopian action experience with a dangerous drink!
This week, we’re loading up on VCRs and Toasters to cover the bloody crossover between the legendary 1990 Arcade Classic, Smash TV, and the definitive Arnold Schwarzenegger movie, The Running Man (1987) - Just in time to set you up for Edgar Wright and Glenn Powell's new version of Steven Kings pre-emptive dystopian reality TV novel.
Join us as we dive into the frantic Twin-Stick Shooter action and the hyper-consumerist nightmare that made Smash TV a technological marvel. .
We’ll discuss how these two pieces of entertainment defined the 90s action genre and, of course, we'll each select a powerful, high-proof cocktail that mirrors the chaotic energy and ruthless efficiency of the Smash TV arena. Good luck, you'll need it—tune in now!
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
Clear the sector and grab your coins! This week on the Cocktail Mode podcast, we’re dropping into the definitive 90s beat 'em up experience: Capcom’s Alien vs. Predator Arcade from 1994!
We break down everything that made this Capcom AVP game a legendary, fan-favourite Retro Gaming experience. Discover how it perfected the Final Fight style formula with gorgeous, massive sprites and intense co-op action.
We’re discussing the playable characters—the ferocious Predator Warrior and the fan-favourite human cyborg, Major Linn Kurosawa—and why fans often call this the best Alien vs. Predator game ever made. We dive into the game’s immaculate design and whether this Arcade Classic still holds up as one of the best licensed 90s games.
If you love classic Capcom beat 'em ups and strategic arcade action, hit subscribe now!
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
This week on the Cocktail Mode podcast, we're locking down the bulkheads and checking our motion trackers because we're (ostensibly) featuring the iconic sci-fi shooter: Alien Breed!
We say 'ostensibly' because Andy and Dave are joined by special guest Rico Holmes, the man behind the concept and art of Alien Breed and who has worked across multiple franchises for Team17. Rico provides an exclusive, inside look at what it was like to work at Team17 in the early days - and to be honest - we had so much fun we almost forgot to talk about Alien Breed at all!
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
Rico's Cocktail
Crack into the ultimate puzzle-platforming adventure! This week on the podcast, Andy and Dave are diving deep into the legendary Dizzy series. They’ll take you on a nostalgic journey, from his humble 8-bit beginnings on the ZX Spectrum to his attempts to crack Japan and the US on the NES.
Join them as they uncover what made these games so charmingly unique - from their bizarre item-based puzzles and signature soundtrack to the sheer challenge of keeping a the eggy hero alive. And, of course, they’ll choose a special cocktail to pair with Dizzy's peculiar world. Get ready to scramble up some nostalgia and find out why this retro gaming icon is still so beloved!
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
Happy 40th Anniversary to one of the most beloved and groundbreaking machines in computing history! This week on the Cocktail Mode retro gaming podcast, Andy and Dave are raising a virtual glass to the Amiga in a very special episode. They'll be celebrating four decades of the Commodore colossus, a machine that revolutionized multimedia, computer gaming, and changed the landscape of geek culture forever.
Join them as they dive deep into the Amiga's legacy, reminiscing about its legendary hardware, stunning graphics and sound, and the iconic games that defined a generation. And, of course, they'll choose an appropriate cocktail to pair with the Amiga's enduring spirit. Tune in for a nostalgic trip and a proper celebration of the machine that was truly ahead of its time!
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
Amiga Live
Lemon Amiga
This week on Cocktail Mode, Andy and Dave are serving up some ace discussions as they step onto the court with the legendary Virtua Tennis! They'll be reminiscing about its ground-breaking arcade gameplay, incredibly fluid controls, and how it dominated the tennis game genre, bringing accessible fun to courts everywhere.
From power shots to drop shots, they'll cover what made Virtua Tennis a true champion. And because no Grand Slam event is complete without a refreshing drink, the guys will be attempting to select the perfect cocktail to pair with the fast-paced action and sunny court vibes. Fault not, and tune in for a smashing good time!
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
This week on Cocktail Mode, Andy and Dave are putting on their racing helmets for a special F1-themed episode. They're hitting the accelerator on Sega's groundbreaking classic, Virtua Racing, diving deep into its revolutionary graphics, iconic arcade experience, and how it laid the groundwork for countless racing games that followed.
Get ready for a full-throttle discussion about the thrill of the track and the pure joy of polygonal speed. And of course, no F1 special is complete without a pit stop for refreshments! Andy and Dave will each be selecting a cocktail designed to capture the high-octane excitement and sleek precision of Formula 1. Will it be a 'Chequered Flag Fizz' or a 'Pole Position Punch'? Tune in and find out – it's going to be a speedy ride!
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
Access Granted. Prepare for a mind-bending journey! This episode on Cocktail Mode, Andy and Dave are joined by special guest Rich to hack into the darkly atmospheric world of System Shock. From the groundbreaking original that redefined immersive sims to the terrifying psychological horror of System Shock 2, they'll discuss every iteration, bug, and brilliant design choice that makes these games legendary.
But beware, SHODAN is listening! As they navigate the horrors of Citadel Station and the Von Braun, the trio will also attempt to select the perfect cocktail to complement the games' chilling cyberpunk aesthetic and unsettling atmosphere. Tune in, if you dare, and discover why these games continue to shock and inspire decades later. Remember, patience is a virtue, but not one you possess!"
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
Rich's Cocktail
Slap shot into nostalgia! This week, Andy and Dave are inspired by the king of 16-bit hockey, NHL '94! They'll be reliving the glory days of one-timers, goalie fights, and that iconic organ music, while also exploring the evolution of ice hockey video games through the years. From early pixelated puck battles to modern-day simulations, they're covering all the major league hits and cult classics. They've also dug up a pair of cocktails as cool and crisp as a fresh sheet of ice. Get ready for some high-sticking fun, retro gaming glory, and perhaps a few questionable calls!
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
Kick, punch, it's all in the mind! This week, Andy and Dave are dropping the beat and getting groovy with the one and only PaRappa the Rapper! They'll be exploring the game's unique style, unforgettable tunes, and lasting legacy, while also charting the evolution of the entire rhythm action genre through the years. And what's a rhythm session without a refreshing drink? They've mixed up a cocktail that's as vibrant and funky as PaRappa's rhymes. Get ready to jam out, reminisce, and perhaps even learn to believe!"
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
Leap into the bizarre world of the Nth Dimension with Andy and Dave as they revisit the iconic Amiga platformer, Zool. This week, Andy and Dave are taking a deep dive into the legacy of this unique Amiga platformer, from its lightning-fast gameplay to its ingenious level design. They'll also be venturing into the world of Zool 2 along with other games that tried to push random products into our addled young gamer minds. And what's a trip down memory lane without a themed beverage? They've unearthed a couple of cocktails that may be as colorful and chaotic as the game itself… or may just be another terrible pun! Join us for a sugar-fueled discussion and a taste of nostalgia!
Dave's Cockail
Andy's Cocktail
Are you ready to bodyslam into nostalgia? This week, Andy and Dave are joined by the tag team champion himself, Chris from the 'Once Upon a Turnstile' podcast, for a deep dive into the pixelated power of WrestleFest! They'll be reminiscing about their favourite arcade moments, discussing other classic wrestling games that graced our screens, and trading stories about the larger-than-life world of professional wrestling through the years. And what's a wrestling extravaganza without a signature drink? They've brewed up a cocktail that packs a punch as powerful as a 5 knuckle shuffle. Get ready for suplexes, suds, and superstar memories!
Chris' Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
Andy's Cocktail
Get ready to question everything! This episode, Andy and Dave dive headfirst into the chaotic world of April Fools' Day pranks in the realm of retro video games. But the fun doesn't stop there! We're also shaking up some delightfully deceptive cocktails, concocted with a mischievous twist to celebrate the spirit of April Fools'. Prepare for a blend of pixelated pandemonium and boozy bamboozlement – it's a retro gaming and cocktail combo you won't want to miss!
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
Did it kill gaming as we knew it? Is it hugely over-rated? Do spoilers have an expiry date? Find out all this and more as we take Snake on his seminal PS1 journey.
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
You may know it as Hot Shots Golf - but whatever the name it's one of the few games to ever make golf fun! We talk about the whole series, some contemporaries, and Dave even takes the time to explain that whole Tiger Woods, PGA Tour, Masters, EA Sports naming convention mess.
We also do a bit of a round up on some games and drinks mentioned in previous episodes and finally choose these two lovely cocktails for your responsible drinking pleasure:
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
To celebrate the launch into Early Access of Tokyo Extreme Racer, Dave and Andy look back at where this series started and play entries all the way from the SNES to the Xbox 360.
Obviously you mustn't drink and drive but we did (eventually) find a couple of great cocktails to go along with game for you to try out once you're home safe!
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
*Apologies for some occasional and very slight crackle on the audio this episode*
We take to the streets of Tokyo-to with Beat, Gum, and the rest of the GGs with the iconic granddaddy of cel-shaded games: Jet Set Radiooooooo!!!
Also up for discussion is the sequel Jet Set Radio Future, along with several of the newer games released that pay homage to it... such as Bum Rash Cider Punk.
Drinks are obviously on the menu too with both Dave and Andy picking cocktails almost as bright, cheery, and excellent as the game itself!
Andy's Cocktail
Dave's Cocktail
Welcome to Season 2 of Cocktail mode where 2 old mates continue to struggle to stay on topic aout an old videogame and then try to chose a cocktail that compliments it.
This episode is about the the CaRPG that started it all, with mild diversions into Ridge Racer, MSR, Motor Toon GP, and of course Dark Souls... Wait. What?
Also, hi to https://martinishot.blog/, who get a mention late in the episode.






















