Final Fantasy VIII Anniversary - Phantom Dick Pain

Final Fantasy VIII Anniversary - Phantom Dick Pain

Author: The Waffling Taylors February 9, 2024 Duration: 1:37:58

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Can you believe that it's been 25 years since Final Fantasy VIII first came out? We couldn't either, so we asked Lulu to come back on the show to discuss what some people call the "weird, middle child" in Square's PlayStation Final Fantasy trilogy. Rest assured, we think FF VIII is the bomb.

This is a sample of the full show notes - make sure to click here to check out the full show notes.

Content Warning

There are a few swears in this episode, but none which should be too offensive.

Please listen responsibly.


Show Notes

From active time battling to zombie slaying, waffling Taylors covers video games and beyond.

In this episode, we are joined by OG Waffler and long-time friend of the show Lulu to to talk about the anniversary of Final Fantasy eight on the PS one. In this episode, we cover everything from triple triad addiction, bazooka abuse and the original Selphie.

So without further ado, sit back, grab some snacks, and get ready for this episode entitled "Final Fantasy VIII Anniversary - Phantom Dick Pain."

Take it away guys.

— Squidge


That's right! This episode is all about Final Fantasy VIII. Some say that it's the black sheep, or weird middle child of the group of 90's J-RPGs created by SquareSoft for the PlayStation; but, as you'll find out in this episode, it's the favourite of both Jay and Lulu—with Final Fantasy IX in a very close second for everyone in the episode.

Speaking (well, writing) of which, Lulu joined the lads for this episode:


So we have a guest today to help us. She is our local Final Fantasy expert. She needs no introduction...

— Squidge


And Lulu broke in with:



But you're gonna get one anyway! Hi guys, it's me!

— Lulu


Lulu needed to join the lads for the 25th ANNIVERSARY of Final Fantasy VIII. But not just because it's Lulu's favourite entry in the PlayStation Final Fantasy games, but also because it's the game that Jay and her met and bonded over. Meaning that it's a celebration of 25 years of friendship, too

But that means that it was also a time for the three of them to shout at clouds:

Okay. I'd love to have my back not click in the morning.

— Squidge


Not too big of an ask.

I felt that on a spiritual level.

— Lulu


We did too, Lulu.

I felt that in the ibuprofen.

— Jay


The episode was broken into several shorter conversations, all prompted by Squidge's list of questions. The first of which was:

Describe Final Fantasy VIII In Three Words

Mother f%@$ing good!

— Jay

Says it all, really.

Succession of witches.

— Lulu

Whilst Jay's was subjective, Lulu's was objective and perfect.

And Squidge's had more truth than anything else:

Triple Triad Addiction

— Squidge

And that sparked a conversation about Triple Triad and how it can't hurt you (or can it?).

Full Show Notes

Make sure to check out the full show notes for more discussion on the points we raise, some extra meta-analysis, some out-of-context screen grabs from the movie, and some links to related things.

What other movies would you like us to cover? Let us know on Discord, Twitter, Facebook, or try our brand-new contact page.

Links of Interest

Signing Off... For Now

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The Waffling Taylors is a proud member of Jay and Jay Media. If you like this episode, please consider supporting our Podcasting Network. One $3 donation provides a week of hosting for all of our shows. You can support this show, and the others like it, at https://ko-fi.com/jayandjaymedia

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Ever find yourself wanting to dive into a conversation about games that doesn't take itself too seriously? That's the space Arrggh! A Video Game Podcast from The Waffling Taylors happily occupies. Hosted by brothers Jay and Squidge-the latter's exact species (cartoon wolf?) is a running mystery-this show is a genuine, often hilarious chat between siblings who love this medium. Their discussions effortlessly bounce from deep dives on retro classics and brand-new releases to the often-baffling world of video game film adaptations. While the core of the podcast is their easy-going dynamic, they regularly bring on fantastic guests, including genuine legends from game development, which adds layers of insight you won't find elsewhere. One moment you might be parsing the lore of a beloved franchise, and the next you're deep in a light-hearted tangent about something completely unrelated, and that's the charm. It feels less like a formal production and more like you're hanging out with friends who happen to know a ridiculous amount about pixels and polygons. If you're after a mix of informed commentary, nostalgic warmth, and unscripted silliness, this podcast from The Waffling Taylors has you covered.
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