Are you ready to delve into the fascinating realm where the worlds of podcasting and video games collide? It’s no secret that Joe Rogan is a household name in the podcasting world, notably for his candid conversations with an array of guests spanning from scientists to celebrities.
However, what you might not know is that Joe Rogan has a deep-rooted love and addiction for video games. It’s a passion so strong that he’s actually had to quit gaming, in his own words – he simply couldn’t tear himself away from the virtual worlds he so thoroughly enjoyed.
In this article, let’s take a journey through Joe Rogan’s enduring fascination with video games, exploring why he’s had to abandon his joystick, and how he’s even brought expert game developers to the Joe Rogan Experience (JRE) podcast to dive deep into the art and science of game development.
Joe Rogan’s Favorite Video Game
Joe Rogan’s favorite video game of all-time is Quake, a game designed by John Carmack who appeared on the podcast (JRE #1342). Quake is a first-person shooter video game and descendant of the long-time hit Doom video game series.
Quake served as an eye-opener to Rogan. He mentioned on JRE #1342, that he could sit and play for over eight hours straight without realizing how much time had gone by. He expressed his wish that he could still play in moderation but considers the hook, especially Quake, to be too powerful.
“Video games can be insidiously addictive, because in many ways, they are more stimulating than real life. You and I both had like major problems with video games.”
-Joe Rogan to Duncan Trussell on JRE #1891
Even though Rogan has become more acutely aware of habits, for example – creating a folder on his iPhone labeled “Addict” where he puts his social media and other addictive apps – his love/hate relationship with Quake is still one that emerges occasionally. The purpose of having this folder on his iPhone serves as a little reminder for himself that every time he reaches for social media, he is engaging in addictive behavior.
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What Rogan Thinks About Video Games
“Jamie can tell you. I have a problem. I get psychotically obsessed and I will play eight to ten hours a day. And it’ll f*** up my life and I’ll look pale like a vampire.”
Joe Rogan on his video game addiction on JRE #1926 with Shane Gillis and Matt McCusker
Rogan finds video games to be extremely captivating and acknowledges that they are designed and intended to be that way. A good video game, he thinks, can be very intellectually stimulating because it demands problem-solving skills, strategy and planning, teamwork, multitasking, and resource management.
Has Joe Rogan Been Featured in a Video Game?
With Rogan’s close ties to Dana White, the UFC, and his legendary commentating skills, the question is worth asking – Has Rogan ever been in a video game?
Yes, in fact, Rogan was a featured in EA Sports UFC 2 and UFC 3 as an un-lockable character. With Rogan having 3 different black belts to his name and almost fighting Wesley Snipes in the UFC, it was quite fitting that he got featured in the UFC games.
Also see: Joe Rogan Has 3 Different Black Belts: A True Master
According to this YouTube video from Martial Mind channel, Rogan’s kicking ability in the UFC games is phenomenal. That, of course, stems from his black belt in Taekwondo.
Best JRE Podcasts on Video Games
#1: JRE #1342 – John Carmack
As the co-founder for id Software, Carmack was the lead developer and programmer for a series of hit video games, including Rogan’s favorite – Quake.
#2: JRE #1441 – Hugo Martin
In 2018, id Software hired Hugo Martin to be their director of gaming, after being a contractor for them for a number of years. He is responsible for the latest Doom series releases, including Doom Eternal and Pacific Rim.
#3: JRE #427 – Cliffy B
Going back deeper into the archives is Cliffy B, who appeared on JRE #427. Cliffy B is a game designer and developer, and best known for being the lead behind Gears of War. After a long and successful career as a game developer, he has branched off into making films, like the musical Hadestown.
#4: JRE #1052 – Mick West
Mick West, who also appeared in JRE episodes #959, #388, is a retired video game developer. He is the co-founder of Neversoft Entertainment, the company behind the video game franchises of Tony Hawk skateboarding and Spiderman.
#5: JRE #719 – Josh Olin
Josh Olin held the position of Vice President of Communications at 3D Realms, a prominent video game publisher and developer. His extensive background involved working on video games, such as Call of Duty and League of Legends in the past.
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