You are listening to Vacation in the Dungeon, the podcast with your Muhammad(s) Muhammad Tahir and Charlton Smit, and a special guest, Finlay Maclean.

In this episode of Vacation in the Dungeon the Podcast, we discuss: Gaming and Travel.

Hopewell Valley Student Podcasting Network

Show Name: Vacation in the Dungeon

Episode Title: The Unkindled Desert

You are listening to vacation in the dungeon the podcast with your host(s) Muhammad Tahir and Charlton Smit.

In this episode of Vacation in the Dungeon the Podcast we discuss: Travel and gaming.

"If you stand at the base of the Burj Khalifa at the first light of dawn, watching its jagged, metallic spire pierce through a heavy shroud of desert fog, you aren’t just a visitor in the United Arab Emirates. In that moment of silence, you are the Unkindled standing before the High Wall of Lothric. You’re looking up at a structure so massive it feels like it wasn't built by modern engineering. Dubai functions as a modern mirror to the Dark Souls universe through its sheer architectural magnificence. It serves as a monument to human will, constructed in a harsh, sun-scorched environment where—by all laws of nature—nothing was originally meant to flourish. It feels like the defiant cathedrals of Lothric that cling to the very edges of reality, fighting against a world that threatens to fade into the dust of history.

Ur traveling into the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve just as the sun begins to bleed over the crimson dunes, turning the sand into a sea of fire. When you look back at the distant, shimmering skyline through the haze of the rising heat, the city appears like the ancient, hidden heights of Archdragon Peak. It sits there, silent and expectant, like a legendary confrontation waiting for you to ring the bell. The desert itself becomes the 'Great Swamp'—a vast, unforgiving expanse that makes the sight of the city feel like a hard-won sanctuary. In the game, we call those sanctuaries bonfires. In Dubai, that bonfire might be a hidden rooftop garden or a quiet lounge on the 100th floor, but the feeling of total relief when you step back into that 'safe zone' is exactly the same.

But wait until the sun sets and the 'First Flame' of the day flickers out. When night falls, the metropolitan center transforms into a labyrinth of cool blue LEDs, silver glass, and deep, obsidian shadows. It captures that haunting majesty of Irithyll of the Boreal Valley. It’s a place that feels like a beautiful illusion sustained by sheer power—a moonlit dreamscape where every corner holds a secret. Walking through the Downtown district at 2:00 AM, with the fountains dancing in silence and the lights reflecting off the steel, you get that same sense of lonely wonder. You’re a small character in a world built for giants, navigating a landscape that feels like it was designed by a creator with a flair for the dramatic and the impossible.

So one time I was playing Dark Souls three, I had fought through the muddy, decaying swamp surrounding Farron Keep and made my way next through the Catacombs of Carthus, an area plagued by rot, smoldering demons, and decaying skeleton warriors. I touched a goblet, which released abyssal gas, flooding the room with darkness. In front of me was the mother (or should I say, father) of all skeletons, the giant High Lord Wolnir. All in all, a pretty easy boss, but a somewhat depressing one. After I defeated him and sent him crawling back into the Abyss, I opened the doors to reveal the hauntingly beautiful and mystifying view of the Irythillian skyline, like a darker, twisted version of Disney World.

Dubai is a city defined by its high walls, its converging cultures, and its 'bonfire' sanctuaries of luxury tucked within a formidable, ancient landscape. It is the definitive real-world map for anyone looking to experience the staggering scale and solitary atmosphere of a Dark Souls journey. It reminds us that even in the face of a vast, empty desert, humanity will always find a way to build a throne., Next time you travel, don't just look for a vacation. Look for a quest. Prepare to explore, praise the sun, and...

Hopewell Valley Student Podcasting Network

Show Name: Vacation in the Dungeon

Episode Title: The Black Snow of Canada

You are listening to Vacation in the Dungeon the podcast with your host(s) Muhammad Tahir and Charlton Smit.

In this episode of Vacation in the dungeon the Podcast, we discuss: Bendy and the Ink Machine and Canada.

Every time i imagine Canada I think of one of the biggest countries in the world, and it feels like a mix of modern cities and endless wilderness. When you land in places like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, you get huge skylines, different cultures, and busy streets. but sometimes you also can get buried i the mountains of snow. But once you drive outside the cities, everything opens up into forests, lakes, mountains, and long snowy roads that look like scenes straight out of a car game. Canada is also known for its freezing winters, maple syrup, hockey, and friendly locals. And by the way, guys, if you like our show, consider subscribing to us on either Spotify or Apple Music.

If you travel to Canada, there are a couple of places that you should really check out. Banff National Park in Alberta looks like something straight out of an anime with its blue lakes and giant mountains that feel like they belong in a fantasy RPG. Vancouver is a city where you can see tall buildings on one side and the ocean and forests on the other, and it’s also home to big gaming companies like EA and Ubisoft Studios. They are the people who created Moterfest and FIFA. Toronto is the biggest city: full of lights, food, and cultures from all over the world. Quebec City is one of the oldest places in the country and feels almost like you’re walking through an Assassin’s Creed map with stone streets and huge castle walls.

Canada also has a strong connection to video games. A ton of famous games are made there, especially in Montreal and Vancouver. Ubisoft Montreal created most of the Assassin’s Creed series, even though the games take place in places like Greece, England, and Egypt. EA Vancouver works on sports games like FIFA and NHL every year. One of the best Canada-based games is The Long Dark, which actually takes place in the freezing Canadian wilderness, where you try to survive snowstorms, wolves, and the harsh environment. Even games like Watch Dogs and Far Cry have Canadian studios behind them.

muhammad: “Yeah, it might seem like a strange combo at first, Canada and a horror cartoon game, but hear yall gotta hear me out first. The game’s old-school animation style and dark, twisty story make it feel like exploring an abandoned studio… kind of like wandering into some freaky forgotten corner of some old Canadian town..”

Charlton: “litterally ! And speaking of history, Canada’s rich artistic and cultural backdrop really glues into the game’s aesthetic, making it flow like a creamy pudding. The game’s tones and 1920s-30s vibe remind me of vintage Canadian comics and animation, as those early Ned and Al or Tintin-inspired works.”

muhammad: “And don’t forget the landscapes. Even though Bendy’s studio is fictional, the idea of exploring terrifying hallways, secret rooms, and hidden dangers, there’s something very Canadian about that too. Think about forests, foggy mornings, and abandoned places. Canada’s real-life settings could almost inspire a level in the game.”

Charlton: “I love that! And for listeners who are gamers, we’ve got a challenge: imagine a Canadian version of Bendy. What would it look like? Maybe a haunted animation studio in Montreal, or a small-town Ontario theater where the cartoons come alive.”

Muhammad: “Yeah, the lore could get crazy! Canadian myths, old folklore, even indigenous stories could blend into the game’s horror vibe. Suddenly, Bendy’s not just some bumkin that

You are listening to Vacation in the dungeon the podcast with your host(s) Muhammad Tahir and Charlton smit.

In this episode of Vacation in the dungeon the Podcast we discuss: Bloodborne and England.

So today we’re diving into England and not just the usual London tourist spots. I’m talking foggy streets, gothic cathedrals, and all those narrow alleyways that feel like they could be hiding a monster around every corner. Honestly, if you’ve ever played Bloodborne, you’ve basically walked through a version of Victorian London in your mind. The game’s Yharnam city draws so much from England’s architecture and atmosphere; the spires, the cobblestones, even the gas lamps give you that feeling like you’re walking through a dark, mysterious version of the 1800s.

And speaking of streets and alleys, did you know some of the oldest pubs in London date back to the 1500s? Walking through them, you kind of get why Gothic horror loves England's history is literally lurking in every corner. It’s almost like if Bloodborne had a real-world level, this is exactly where it would be set. You’d half expect a werewolf to jump out at you while you’re ordering your pint.

Also, England isn’t just about gloomy streets and castles. There’s the countryside too. Imagine taking a trip to the Yorkshire Moors or Whitby Abbey. Those rolling foggy hills and crumbling ruins? Totally something straight out of a Bloodborne lore cutscene. Honestly, it makes you want to plan a trip just to feel that mix of history, mystery, and a little bit of danger minus the actual monsters, of course.

1. Muhammad. If you guys have ever played the DLC, then you know how hard it is personally. I enjoyed it, and it was crazy, but the part that was the hardest was Orphan of Co,s bro is bashing you with his hammer, and his back story brings tears to your eyes. Personally, Fighting Ludwing was the coolest. His area is so cool, and his sword is in every Souls game, but I think Bloodborne did the Moonlight Sword the best. A little flex before I go is that I got platinum, and bro that final trophy grind had me losing my mind. Between the chalice dungeons, farming materials, and dealing with those broken enemies, getting that last ending on NG+3 was so hard it wasn't even like that, i was on the same character, so it will be easier, no, oh it got a lot harder, and I barely even levelled up for all this. My stats are pretty mid. I felt like I ascended to the great ones.

Today we’re blending the gothic nightmare of Bloodborne with the foggy charm of England. Imagine Yharnam dropped right in the middle of London—yeah, chaos.

Picture this: you step off the Tube at midnight and the sky has that eerie Yharnam glow, the moon hanging way too low over Big Ben. The streets of Soho? Empty. The pubs? Boarded up. And somewhere out by the Thames, you hear something howling that is definitely not a fox. Suddenly, every corner of England takes on that Bloodborne energy: Victorian architecture, narrow streets, mist rolling in like it’s hiding something—and honestly, it probably is.

Even the landmarks get a makeover. The Tower of London becomes a boss arena. Buckingham Palace is crawling with hunters who’ve “ascended” a little too far. And don’t even get me started on what the London Underground turns into. If Yharnam had a subway system, it would feel exactly like that after midnight.

But the best part? The vibe fits weirdly perfectly. Foggy mornings, old brick buildings, whispers of old legends… England already has that gothic seed in its soil. Bloodborne just brings it to life—literally, sometimes too literally. So next time you’re wandering London and you feel a chill… just remember: if the moon looks a little too big...

You are listening to Vacation in the dungeon. The podcast with your host(s) Muhammad Tahir and Charlton Smit.

In this episode of Vacation in the dungeon the Podcast we discuss: gaming and vacation. Sit back relax and lets get the adventure started

Alright, let’s talk about Norway. Snow covered mountains, dense forests. It all screams Scandinavia. The landscapes in God of War are stunning, and it really feels like you could step right into those frozen forests and jagged mountains. You can almost hear the crunch of snow underfoot, feel the icy wind cutting through your jacket, and sense the weight of the wilderness pressing in on you. The cold is brutal, and it’s easy to imagine how unforgiving a real Norwegian winter would be. Kratos and Atreus aren’t just battling monsters here they’re constantly fighting the elements themselves, and that struggle makes every step feel alive and tense.

The mythology is incredible. There are nods to the Völsung Saga and other Norse legends, but what really stands out is how much the game evokes the same harsh, relentless world you see in Vinland Saga. Just like in the anime, the Norse world is unforgiving, full of brutal battles, survival, and hard choices. You get the sense of humans being small in a massive, dangerous world, and every victory feels earned.

The realms, from the Lake of Nine to Jötunheim, feel monumental. The forests hide secrets, icy lakes reflect a world that’s beautiful yet deadly, and towering mountains rise like ancient guardians. It’s cold, harsh, but breathtakingly beautiful, giving the game a sense of majesty and danger all at once. It makes you want to bundle up, maybe grab a scarf, and definitely an axe, because you never know what kind of mythological threat might appear next. Norway in God of War feels alive and legendary, a place where the myths, the struggles, and the epic landscapes all come together in a way that sticks with you long after the game ends.

Muhammmad -Norway almost doesn’t feel like real quiet towns leading into massive mountains, icy waters, and ever-changing landscapes that make you feel tiny in the best way. The air is crisp, the weather unpredictable, and nature clearly in charge, while even Oslo blends life into its surroundings. Norwegians match that energy: chill, confident, and low-key, with simple but high-quality food like fresh salmon or brunost. That’s why God of War works so well here: Kratos trekking through snowy forests and rugged terrain feels completely natural, like the country itself is already epic enough to be part of a myth. So picture this: you’re standing at the edge of a towering fjord, water dark as obsidian, mountains rising like the ribs of the world itself. The air is sharp, cold enough to bite, but clean in that way that makes you inhale deeper. And if you’ve played God of War (2018), it’s impossible not to feel like somewhere—maybe just over that ridge—Kratos and Atreus are trekking through the snow, talking about the nature of gods and giants with that heavy father-son tension.

Charlton :Norway is a character all on its own. The forests? Exactly the kind of place where a draugr might stumble out from behind a pine tree. The waterfalls? Pure myth—half beauty, half danger. And the mountains? Those massive slopes practically echo with the same silent power as the World Serpent. Heck, you can stand on the rocks in Vøringsfossen and almost feel that rumble as if Jörmungandr is sliding beneath the fjord. But here’s where the crossover really hits: Santa Monica Studio didn’t just borrow from Norse mythology… they borrowed from Norway’s atmosphere. The grey skies, the biting winds, the quiet, haunting stillness of the north—you see it in every step Kratos takes. When he trudges through deep snow? That’s Norway’s winters. When the camera

You are listening to Vacation in the Dungeon the podcast with your host(s) Charlton smit and Muhammed Tahir.

In this episode of Vacation in the Dungeon the Podcast we discuss: Doom Eternal and Texas. Sit back relax and lets get the adventure started

the crazy Texas sun across endless highways open skies, and a quiet suburb just north of Dallas, where a group of developers at ID Software was quietly working on one of the most unique and interesting games in modern history, Doom Eternal. Texas isn’t just barbecue rodeos and cowboy hats, it’s a state with big energy, a bold personality, and a sense of scale that somehow gets baked into everything created there including video games. Doom Eternal doesn’t hold back, and in a lot of ways, that’s very Texan fast, chaotic, unapologetic, and larger-than-life. Texas has this fascinating mix of tech, creativity, and ambition, a place where creativity meets tradition and where people are encouraged to push boundaries and dream big. There’s a certain vibe you can feel if you walk through the area: studios humming with energy, conventions full of people sharing ideas, and a community that thrives on creating something unforgettable. It’s no wonder that a game like Doom Eternal, with its massive scale, ruthless combat, and pounding soundtrack, could be born here. A place so calm and ordinary on the surface giving rise to a game so intense and explosive. So, next time you’re going through armies of demons, tearing across alien landscapes, or just listening to the soundtrack and feeling your heart race, remember that it all started in Texas, a state that doesn’t do anything halfway, where imagination meets grit, and where bold ideas don’t just survive, they thrive.

DOOM is one of the most intense, loud, adrenaline-fueled shooters ever made. It throws you into a nonstop battle where demons flood every corridor and your only answer is overwhelming firepower and pure aggression. The gameplay moves like a rhythm you’re constantly dashing, jumping, chainsawing, glory killing, and flame-belching to keep your health, ammo, and armor flowing. The Doom Slayer doesn’t speak, doesn’t hesitate, and doesn’t negotiate. He walks into every arena like something the demons should have stayed away from. DOOM doesn’t just want you to win it wants you to dominate. And between the iconic weapons, the fast-paced combat, and the heavy metal soundtrack that practically screams in your chest, it turns every encounter into its own heart-pounding, chaotic highlight reel.

Despite its hellish landscapes and apocalyptic energy, DOOM was actually created in a very real and very normal place: Mesquite, Texas. id Software, the studio behind DOOM, worked out of a regular office building in a quiet suburb just outside Dallas. No flaming pits, no demon portals, just Texas heat, pickup trucks, and good barbecue down the street. It’s funny to think that a game known for ripping demons in half was born in an environment where someone could look out the window and see a calm parking lot shimmering in 100-degree sunlight. But maybe that heat was all the inspiration they needed. Texas summers alone could convince anyone that Hell is real. Mesquite became the unexpected birthplace of one of gaming’s loudest revolutions, proving you don’t need fire and brimstone outside your window to create it on a screen.

Today we’re jumping straight into the loud, brutal, heavy-metal madness that is DOOM Eternal. If you’ve never played it, imagine being thrown into the most aggressive rock concert of your life while every single person there is a demon, and the only instrument you have is a Super Shotgun with a built-in meat hook. DOOM Eternal isn’t just about shooting things it’s like a rhythm game made...

You are listening to Vacation in the Dungeon the podcast with your host(s) Muhammd Tahir and Charlton Smit.

In this episode of Vacation in the Dungeon the Podcast we discuss: Forza Horizon 4 and The United Kingdom.

Video games that give you a sense of real world travel? Forza Horizon 4 is a perfect example. And here’s an interesting twist: this game wasn’t made in Japan, China, or the U.S. It was developed right in the United Kingdom by Playground Games, based in Leamington Spa. The UK setting lets players explore a virtual version of Britain that feels alive and incredibly detailed.

What sets Forza Horizon 4 apart is its driving and dynamic seasons. The game revs through spring, summer, autumn, and winter, and each season completely changes the way the world looks and drives one week you’re tearing down golden autumn roads lined with colorful leaves, modded-out cars pushing to the max, alive and incredibly detailed , the next drifting across snow-covered streets in the middle of winter, or cruising under bright spring skies with blooming countryside all around. The changing seasons don’t just look beautiful they change the way you race, adding variety and challenge, just like real-world travel can surprise you with new experiences depending on when you visit.

The landscapes themselves are breathtaking. From the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to Scotland’s rugged highlands, the game captures the diversity of Britain’s terrain. You’ll race past historic landmarks, like Edinburgh Castle or charming coastal towns, and explore winding country lanes that feel like a road trip straight out of a travel magazine. Every corner has something new to discover, whether it’s a hidden trail, a festival event, or a scenic lookout.

But it’s not just about scenery. Forza Horizon 4 also gives players a taste of British culture. The villages, festivals, and even local wildlife make the environment feel lived-in and authentic. Driving through these towns, you get a sense of what life feels like in different parts of the UK from bustling city streets to quiet rural roads. It’s an adventure that mixes speed and exploration, letting you feel like both a traveler and a racer.

For travel and gaming enthusiasts alike, this game is a perfect bridge between the two worlds. It shows how video games can take you to new countries, immerse you in local culture, and let you experience the thrill of the adventure all without leaving your home. Forza Horizon 4 isn’t just about racing, it's a virtual road trip across the UK, offering discovery, freedom, and fun at every turn.

Today we’re talking about one of the coolest gaming crossovers ever—Forza Horizon 4 and the United Kingdom. This game isn’t just about cars and racing; it’s basically a giant love letter to Britain. You’ve got everything from the rolling green hills of the countryside to the narrow cobblestone streets of Edinburgh, and it all feels alive. The seasons are a total game-changer too—you might be flying down a sunny road one week, then sliding across frozen lakes the next. It’s unpredictable, chaotic, and honestly, pretty much how British weather works in real life. What I love most, though, is the personality packed into it. The cheeky humor from the festival hosts, the classic British rides like the Aston Martin and Mini Cooper, even the GPS voice with that perfect polite-but-sassy tone—it all just fits. It’s like someone mashed up Top Gear with a massive outdoor festival and said, “Yeah, that’s Horizon.” The UK setting gives it this charm and personality that no other Horizon game quite matches. Whether you’re ripping through the Scottish Highlands or doing donuts near Edinburgh Castle, it really feels like a celebration of what makes Britain, well… Britain. Forza Horizon 4 isn’t just a racing game`

You are listening to Vacation in the Dungeon the podcast with your host(s) Charlton Smit and Muhammed Tahir .

In this episode of Vacation in the Dungeon the Podcast where we discuss travel and gaming.

Japan is a dream destination for travelers and gamers , imagine you're walking in japan with neon streets Akihabara in Tokyo. The King for gaming and anime culture You can visit shops filled with the latest consoles, rare collectible figures, and arcades where games you’ve only played online come to life. It’s an entire world built around your favorite games and characters. Japan isn't just about gaming and anime. Just a short train ride away, you can explore unreal temples in Kyoto or stroll through the bamboo forests or soak in some hot springs while you're surrounded by beautiful views. The mix of modernized cities and ancient culture and it is a unique experience. You might be playing a game one moment then the next you're standing in ancient temples the next, it feels like you're traveling back in time between worlds. Many games are inspired by landscapes and traditions. Traveling to japan gives you a real feel of the world that inspires the awesomeness of the most popular games. You can see shrines, gardens, streets that look like scenes out of a video game.And it’s not just scenery. Japan celebrates gaming culture everywhere from themed cafes where you can sip coffee surrounded by your favorite characters, to arcades with classic and modern games, to festivals where cosplay brings characters to life. Experiencing this culture in person is so much more than just sightseeing; it’s stepping into the heart of the games themselves. So even if you're a traveler searching the world for its beauties or if you're a hardcore gamer, japan is the place for you it offers both worlds in one and it doesn't even seem like it. It all blends in together

Muhammad: Now that we have explored real world magics of Japan from its temples to its neon lit cities, it's now time to cross over into its virtual side of that same world. Few games capture Japan's beauty, history and spirit better than the ghost of Tsushima.

Set during the Mongol invasion of the 13th century, Ghost of Tsushima feels like stepping into a living painting of feudal Japan. The island of Tsushima is brought to life with stunning detailed fields of golden grass, misty bamboo forests, mountain shrines, and quiet villages that reflect the balance between nature and civilization

that Japan is known for. Every frame feels cinematic, almost like a tribute to the samurai films that shaped Japan’s storytelling tradition.

Charlton: But what makes it even more special is how the game connects to real Japanese culture. The way Jin Sakai, the main character, struggles between the samurai code of honor and the need to protect his people mirrors the real moral conflicts that defined Japan’s warrior history. Even the smallest details like composing haiku, paying respects at shrines, or following a guiding fox are drawn straight from Japanese customs. As we shift from travel to gaming, we’re not really leaving Japan behind, we're just seeing it through another view. Ghost of Tsushima lets you experience the country’s spirit in motion: the discipline of the samurai, the beauty of its landscapes, and the quiet strength of its people. It’s not just a game; it’s an artistic love letter to Japan’s past.

You know when a game doesn’t just entertain you it makes you think about who you’d be if you were in that world? That’s Ghost of Tsushima. It’s not just a samurai action game; it’s a story about loyalty, sacrifice, and what it means to hold onto your humanity when the world forces you to change.

You play as Jin Sakai, a samurai...