Welcome to the very first Bonus Run, a brand-new series from The Rookie Run! In these bonus episodes, the hosts dive into the latest and greatest games that haven't yet earned a Veteran review.

For this debut episode, Lewbop goes solo to share his first impressions of Reanimal. From its unsettling atmosphere and striking art style to its gameplay and early scares, he breaks down what makes this upcoming horror adventure so intriguing and whether it's one to keep on your radar.

If you're a fan of indie horror games, first impressions, gaming podcasts, and discovering exciting new releases before everyone else, this episode is for you.

Topics covered:

• Reanimal first impressions
• Horror game gameplay and atmosphere
• Indie game discussion
• Upcoming game recommendations
• The Rookie Run Bonus Run series

Social media:

https://linktr.ee/therookierunpod

Returning for Episode 4 is producedbycos as we revisit Max Payne, Remedy Entertainment's iconic noir action shooter that redefined cinematic storytelling in video games.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The tragic story of Max Payne and his quest for revenge
• How the game's noir atmosphere and narration still hold up today
• The introduction of Bullet Time and its impact on gaming
• Our favourite levels, shoot-outs, and memorable moments
• Whether Max Payne is still worth playing in 2026

Originally released in 2001, Max Payne combined hard-boiled detective storytelling with groundbreaking action mechanics to create one of the most influential shooters of its era. We break down what made the game a classic and why it continues to be remembered more than two decades later.

If you're a fan of:

• Max Payne
• Remedy Entertainment
• Third-person shooters
• Noir stories
• Gaming retrospectives
• Video game podcasts

then this episode is for you.

Social Media⁠ Links:

https://linktr.ee/therookierunpod⁠

Returning for Episode 3 is @producedbycos as we revisit Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare, the legendary zombie-themed expansion to Rockstar Games' classic Western.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The story of Undead Nightmare and its supernatural take on the Wild West
• Who was the true rookie during our playthrough?
• How the gameplay holds up years after release
• The zombies, side missions, and memorable moments that made the DLC a cult classic
• Whether Undead Nightmare is still worth playing in 2026

Originally released as an expansion for Red Dead Redemption, Undead Nightmare transformed the frontier into a horror-filled world of zombies, mythical creatures, and survival challenges. We break down what made the DLC special and why it remains one of the most beloved expansions in gaming history.

If you're a fan of:

• Red Dead Redemption
• Rockstar Games
• Open-world games
• Zombie games
• Gaming retrospectives
• Video game podcasts

then this episode is for you.

Social Media Links:

https://linktr.ee/therookierunpod

Joining us for this episode is Chris Taylor from Lightning Strikes Thrice as we take a deep dive into Silent Hill 4: The Room, the final Silent Hill title developed by the legendary Team Silent.

Often considered one of the most divisive entries in the franchise, Silent Hill 4 introduced major changes to the series formula while maintaining the psychological horror, disturbing atmosphere, and symbolism that made Silent Hill a survival horror classic.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why Silent Hill 4 feels different from previous Team Silent games
• The story of Henry Townshend and Room 302
• The game's themes, symbolism, and psychological horror
• How the combat and gameplay mechanics compare to earlier Silent Hill titles
• Chris' veteran perspective versus my Rookie experience
• Whether Silent Hill 4 deserves a reevaluation among horror fans

Released in 2004, Silent Hill 4: The Room remains one of the most unique entries in the franchise. From its haunting apartment setting to its unforgettable villains and surreal storytelling, we explore what worked, what didn't, and why fans still debate its place in the series today.

If you enjoy discussions about:

• Silent Hill
• Team Silent
• Survival horror games
• Horror game retrospectives
• Psychological horror
• Video game history

then this episode is for you.

Check out Chris Taylor and Lightning Strikes Thrice:

Lightning Strikes Thrice

Social Media:

https://linktr.ee/therookierunpod

In this episode, we’re joined by @producedbycos to talk about E.Y.E: Divine Cybermancy, the cult classic cyberpunk action RPG first-person shooter developed in Valve’s Source engine.

We break down everything you need to know about E.Y.E: Divine Cybermancy—a deeply complex and chaotic FPS RPG inspired by an unreleased tabletop role-playing game. Known for its ambitious systems, dense lore, and infamous “jank,” the game has built a strong cult following among fans of hardcore cyberpunk shooters and experimental indie games.

If you’re searching for podcasts about E.Y.E Divine Cybermancy explained, Source engine cult games, cyberpunk FPS RPGs, or hidden gem video games, this episode explores why this title is both frustrating and fascinating in equal measure.

Topics include:

• E.Y.E: Divine Cybermancy gameplay and mechanics
• Cyberpunk RPG storytelling and worldbuilding
• Why the game is considered “janky but genius”
• Cult status and community reception
• Its origins as a tabletop RPG adaptation

Perfect for fans of immersive sims, retro Source engine games, and obscure cult classics in gaming history.

Social Media:

https://linktr.ee/therookierunpod