In this episode of the Game Under Podcast, Tom and Phil explore a wide range of topics, from video games and vegan fast food to philosophical critiques of Ayn Rand’s work. They begin with light-hearted banter about Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, Death Stranding, and technical issues with PC hardware, before transitioning into a discussion of Halloween’s cultural adoption in Australia and the quality of the Rebel Whopper. The conversation then shifts to Bioshock, particularly its narrative and thematic parallels with Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged. The hosts dissect the game’s plot, highlighting its commentary on manipulation, free will, and utopian collapse, while noting how it mirrors rather than critiques Rand’s objectivist philosophy.
The second half of the episode delves deeply into a critical analysis of Atlas Shrugged and The Fountainhead. Tom and Phil argue that Rand’s writing is ideologically inconsistent, poorly constructed, and often undermines its own philosophical premises. They critique the portrayal of capitalism, altruism, and individualism in her novels, suggesting that her characters lack depth and her narratives fail to convincingly support her objectivist ideals. The hosts also reflect on the broader cultural impact of Rand’s work, libertarianism, and the contradictions within both. Despite their harsh criticism, they acknowledge Rand’s honesty as a writer and recommend Anthem or The Romantic Manifesto as more concise and entertaining introductions to her ideas. The episode concludes with a humorous wrap-up and a teaser for future discussions on politically charged video games.
