Thumb Bandits

Episode 6

On another irreverent ride through gaming culture, Thumb Bandits blasts into hyperspace with a deep dive into Star Wars Rogue Squadron II: Rogue Leader on the Nintendo GameCube, praising its stunning space battles while cursing its punishing controls. Ian hits the slopes with Amped: Freestyle Snowboarding on the Xbox, celebrating its open mountains and massive soundtrack, while the review jury serves up a tennis special—crowning Tennis Masters Series 2003 over Cosmic Smash and Centre Court: Hard Hitter. Elsewhere, there’s UK release news on Final Fantasy X, a look back at cult consoles like the PC Engine and the ill-fated Virtual Boy, plus a feature on artists turning classic games into modern installations—before the hosts descend into the usual chaotic sign-off.