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backlogdialogues.bsky.social
Backlog Dialogues
@backlogdialogues.bsky.social
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The podcast that digs you out of your backlog before it buries you! We cover long running media series week by week, with discussions on characters, themes, and anything else that catches our interest.
Current Project: When They Cry
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Backlog Dialogues @backlogdialogues.bsky.social · Nov 6
We're Backlog Dialogues, the media discussion podcast that digs you out of your backlog before it buries you! Join John, Jared, and Matt each week for discussions on characters, themes, and other story elements for long running narratives and short one shots. Check out our archives here!
Backlog Dialogues | Backlog Dialogues
Backlog Dialogues is the nerd culture podcast where we dig you out of your backlog, BEFORE it buries you. We attempt to bring a literary eye to nerd culture media, like video games, films, TV shows, ...
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backlogdialogues.bsky.social
From the tale sitting on the Author's Desk:
And thus we reach our climax in two parts. Weddings, duels, dramatic returns! Yet, a truth waits to be found. The Witch and Sorcerer have it. The detective does not. Can you solve the mystery of the numbered guests?
#backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry Chiru - Dawn of the Golden Witch, Console Version. While his mind is trapped in the logic error, Ushiromiya Battler tries to resist the demonic wedding ring he is forced in to wearing by Furudo Erika. Image from Umineko When They Cry Chiru - Dawn of the Golden Witch, Console version. In the golden land, Shannon rises after dodging a shot from Kanon's magicked dueling pistol. Image from Umineko When They Cry Chiru - Dawn of the Golden Witch, Console Version. Furudo Erika sneers at Beatrice, who has returned to the world above the game board to issue a challenge to Erika. Image from Umineko When They Cry Chiru - Dawn of the Golden Witch Console Version. Golden Sorcerer Battler and Beatrice the Golden Witch clasp together a dueling pistol loaded with a red truth that will turn the entire story up on its head.
September 16, 2026 at 7:10 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
*WHISTLE*
Foul on the play, illegal evidence shift!
Battler has a problem. He let a rat in, and now Erika has torn his story to shreds. And yet, somehow, HE'S the one who has to account for it. Even the cruel witches pity this fate. Is there truly no hope? #umineko #backlogdialogues #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Dawn of the Golden Witch, Console Version. Ushiromiya Battler lies 'dead' on a bed in the guest room. Image from Umineko When They Cry Chiru, Console Version. Furudo Erika makes a declarative point making her signature most perfect face.
September 2, 2026 at 5:21 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
Today Erika is going to try to bust the myth of the golden witch. She needs her secret weapon - DUCT TAPE. Remember, if it moves and its not supposed to, use duct tape (wait, wrong show). Will Battler show sympathy to her plight? Duct tape, Erika salutes you!
#umineko #whentheycry #backlogdialogues
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Dawn of the Golden Witch, Manga version. Panel 1: Furudo Erika stops shedding crocodile tears. "And it's..." Panel 2: Furudo Erika, Lambdadelta, and Bernkastel all gloat with absolutely perfect faces. "...as easy... as that!"
August 26, 2026 at 4:36 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
Let the new game begin! Sure we have a murder mystery to set up, but also for some reason a killing game for love has started too. Our star crossed lovers must follow the rules to kill, or fall into despair. Wait a second... did we change franchises here?
#umineko #whentheycry #backlogdialogues
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Dawn of the Golden Witch, console version. Ushiromiya Jessica enchants her fists as she prepares to kill Kyrie. Image from Umineko When They Cry - Dawn of the Golden Witch, Console version. EVA-Beatrice whips her son George around with a spiderweb net (implied by the image when used in context)
August 19, 2026 at 4:00 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
Have you been paying attention? The theme of this story has always been about one thing - the single element of the world. And to demonstrate the miracle and the horror of love in all its forms, let's meet today's special hosts! Come on down! #umineko #whentheycry #backlogdialogues
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Dawn of the Golden Witch. Zepar (right) and Furfur (left) make their grand entrance.
August 12, 2026 at 5:16 PM
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Throughout this long game, there have been many topics of debate, large and small. Though this time around, the arguments are more confusing and stupid. Why all the zero sum game thinking? And why this... utterly stupid debate over cup magic?
#backlogdialogues #whentheycry #umineko
Two pages from the Umineko When They Cry - Dawn of the Golden Witch Manga adaptation. From Right to left in proper reading order: Panel 1: With a flourish, Erika presents a cup to Maria. "Will you do me the favor of re-creating the circumstances for me right now!?" Panel 2: Maria snatches the cup from Erika Panel 3: Maria slams the cup face down in rage. "Beatrice took the empty cup! And placed it! Right on top of the table! Upside down!" Panel 4: Erika watches with amusement. "Aha! And then!? When she opened it up, a stream of candy spilled out!?" Panel 5: Erika: "Why, that's incredible!" Panel 6: Erika gets in Maria's face with her top-quality sneer. "That certainly sounds like magic! If that's what happened...!" Panel 7: Reality shatters as the two take their argument to the Golden Land. Two pages from the Umineko When They Cry - Dawn of the Golden Witch manga adaptation. From Right to left, as proper manga reading order. Panel 1: Kanon, having been convinced by Shannon, makes a promise to not give up. "Yes. I promise. I won't hide my own feelings in order to protect you anymore." Panel 2: Kanon continues. "And if I Win, I will love the mistress and care for you too, Nee-San." Panel 3: Shannon responds in kind. "Thank you. If you win, put all your strength into your love." Panel 4: Kanon responds. "Right. Even if it's meant to be an unfulfilled one." Panel 5: Kanon or shannon begins. "....At this point..." Panels 6 and 7: Kanon and Shannon say together. "...We are furniture... ... no more."
August 5, 2026 at 4:12 PM
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Well, everyone, I guess it's my turn. The new game is mine, and I'll use it to...to... Man this is harder then it looks.

Don't worry, child of man. Let my hand guide you, my story of the truth inform you, and the golden witch's memorial can begin.

#backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Dawn of the Golden Witch. A portrait of Battler, the new game master, sitting in the seat and wearing the cloak that shows his new authority. Screenshot from Umineko When They Cry - Dawn of the Golden Witch. The Witch of Spectating and Theatergoing, Augustus Aurora Featherine, makes her presence known.
July 29, 2026 at 4:02 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
There are stories that shape you, stay with you even if no one else can relate. If you had the chance to change one, would you? Isn't the urge alone proof of how deeply you value it? This week we discuss Zenshu and it's unique discussion on the impact of fiction and how we should view endings.
Image from Zenshu Opening theme. Natsuko Hirose at an animator's desk, amid a barren wasteland of sand dunes.
July 22, 2026 at 4:20 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
Welcome, my beloved foes, to the land of Truth! Now that you've reached the secrets of the story itself, I, the Witch of Dialogues, welcome you as equals and - wait, you don't know the answers? Battler told no one? *cackle**cackle*
#backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
English Volumes 1, 2, and 3 of the Umineko When They Cry - End of the Golden Witch manga adaptation by Akitaka. Volume 1 features Furudo Erika in a cutesy pose, Volume 2 features Dlanor A Knox brandishing the Red Key, and Volume 3 features Furudo Erika wielding a wicked scythe of truth.
July 15, 2026 at 4:00 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
The letter in the bottle reads: It may feel over as false truth pierces you. But these stories, these bottles, have already given you all the pieces you need. Accept the rules, and find the truth that she hoped you would. The key to the Golden Land awaits.
#umineko #backlogdialogues #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry - End of the Golden Witch, Console Version. Ushiromiya Battler stands impaled by Dlanor's Red Key, forced in to a state of inward contemplation through metaphorical death.
July 8, 2026 at 4:01 PM
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The Game is Concluded, and Court is now in session! The detective may now present her summation. Her brilliant deduction is beyond reproach, her reasoning flawless. The culprit identified, her guilt certain. Are there any objections?
#backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
Background Image from Umineko When They Cry - End of the Golden Witch, Console version. The chapel of the layer above the game board, transformed in to a great court. A bright light shines eerily through the domed roof of the apse, causing it to resemble an eye, perhaps the eye of god laying down judgement on all within the walls of the chapel.
July 1, 2026 at 4:08 PM
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This game is getting more absurd. The witch playing the human side has decided that chess would be more interesting if she could add super pieces, and introduces Dlanor. But if one side can add pieces, the other can just as easily gallantly leap off the board.
#backlogdialogues #whentheycry #umineko
Image from Umineko When They Cry - End of the Golden Witch, console version. Dlanor A. Knox brandishes the Red Key in a powerful sweeping strike. Image from Umineko When They Cry - End of the Golden Witch, Console Version. Ushiromiya Battler as played by the Witch Lambdadelta gallantly catches Beatrice as she escapes from the locked room of Kinzo's study, sparkles and roses completing the gaudy, extravagant scene.
June 24, 2026 at 4:09 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
There is a saying that Guests, like fish, begin to smell after three days. Well, this fishy aroma is developing even faster. Erika is really showing herself to be quite the charmer, being brilliant, talkative, and...wait, what did she call herself? Oh. Oh no.
#backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry - End of the Golden Witch Manga. Smiling with a Nipah sound effect, Furudo Erika describes herself as "...I love exposing secrets that people want hidden. An <phrase redacted> if you will. Solving the epitaph falls under that category."
June 17, 2026 at 4:00 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
Lambdadelta's Game is officially underway, but since Battler showed up late we had to start up without him with a new detective! Who is this Furudo Erika, and what is her deal? She seems nice, but...
Image from the Umineko When They Cry - End of the Golden Witch Manga, Volume 1. A two page spread showing Furudo Erika introducing herself with the words "I am Erika Furudo. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance." The narration continues with the line "...has a full cast of eighteen". Image from Umineko When They Cry - End of the Golden Witch Manga, Volume One. A sadistic grin crosses the face of Furudo Erika as she deconstructs the consequences of the existence of the Witch's Epitaph as a dig at Jessica, saying "...Whnat do you think of that, Jessica-san?" to Jessica's shock.
June 10, 2026 at 4:00 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
And we're back with a new game board! We have a new Gamemaster, but don't let that keep you from seeking the truth to the mystery, as there is so much to learn. As we set up the board, let's check in with Natsuhi and how she helped set the stage.
#backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry Chiru - End of the Golden Witch, Console Version. In a flashback to a vacation while they were still fairly newlywed, Krauss offers a flustered Natsuhi an Areca Nut. Image from Umineko When They Cry Chiru - End of the Golden Witch, Console Version. A bashful Krauss turns his head and blushes as he flirts with his wife.
June 3, 2026 at 4:01 PM
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As we prepare for the second half of this epic mystery, perhaps it is time we check out another epic puzzle. Benoit Blanc, the last gentleman detective. Through his trio of cases we can explore even more mysteries where the heart is important. The Game is afoot!
Image sourced from Reddit. Three in one image containing the posters for Knives Out, Glass Onion, and Wake Up Dead Man, the three movies in the Benoit Blanc Mystery Trilogy.
May 20, 2026 at 4:36 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
Time flows. But in which direction? How does a life change if it finds itself living in a new way? How do relationships form, and what do they change in each other? This week we are covering the epic reincarnation story manga Spirit Circle. Are we our past, or our present?
#backlogdialogues #minilog
Cover of the final volume of Spirit Circle by Satoshi Mizukami. Kouko and Fuuta stand side by side in their cool weather clothes as cherry blossoms fall around them.
May 6, 2026 at 4:40 PM
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Oh dear. Did you think the answers solved? My beloved foes, we are only just beginning. Only now can you even perceive me, the Witch of Dialogues, sitting across the table. Take your time, you have a lot to chew on, but know the next round begins soon.
#backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Alliance of the Golden Witch Secret Tea Party, Console Version. Lambdadelta and Bernkastel share some pillow talk as they reveal themselves to be conspiring against Beatrice.
April 29, 2026 at 4:00 PM
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The tear stained paper inside the bottle reads:
Now you have seen the whole game board. Now the witch asks her real question. Can you win? Can you solve her question? Can you... end her?
#backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Alliance of the Golden Witch, Console Version. Ushiromiya Battler embraces Beatrice as both turn in to gold butterflies and leave the game board.
April 22, 2026 at 4:12 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
In chess, sacrifice is common. If losing a piece moves you towards a win, go for it. In abstract, trading lives for victory. But what of the piece? What if it had a mind, a soul, a CHOICE? What does sacrifice mean, and what does it do to those who value her?
#backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Alliance of the Golden Witch, Console Version. Ushiromiya Ange, with tear filled eyes, sacrifices herself by revealing her identity in a gambit to restore Ushiromiya Battler's will to win in the witch's game.
April 15, 2026 at 4:38 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
The game that Beatrice has put the humans through has felt particularly unfair. No puzzle, no mystery, just magic and monsters. The people on the island have had enough, and it is their time to strike back. To show humanity's strength! It should go... ok?
#backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Alliance of the Golden Witch, Console Version. George Ushiromiya showcases his kick and counter oriented style of fighting. Image from Umineko When They Cry - Alliance of the Golden Witch, Console Version. Jessica showcases her power with a flurry of brass knuckled punches. Image from Umineko When They Cry - Alliance of the Golden Witch, Manga Volume 3. Krauss Ushiromiya punches a goat. The text reads "...have a little taste... of the most powerful left... in the wide world of boxing!!!" Image from Umineko When They Cry - Alliance of the Golden Witch, Console Version. Beatrice and Ushiromiya Battler meet on the game board at last, but what strange questions will Beatrice pose to him?
April 8, 2026 at 4:06 PM
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Family can hurt family. A mother can crush her daughter's heart. A patriarch can leave his whole house in terror of his rage. And when it bubbles up, unable to be suppressed any further, the results can be devastating.
#backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Alliance of the Golden Witch, Console Version. Ushiromiya Maria, out of vengeance for the murder of Sakutarou, tortures her mother Rosa with rage-filled tears in her eyes.
April 1, 2026 at 4:01 PM
backlogdialogues.bsky.social
Sorrow isolates. Pain darkens the sight. This week both are in spades. Not much to say, just....see you on the other side as Ange and Maria's stories continue.
#backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Alliance of the Golden Witch, Manga version. Ushiromiya Ange, after destroying the stakes of purgatory in her mind, asks her classmates, "Someone, anyone... let me die." Image from Umineko When They Cry - Alliance of the Golden Witch, Manga Version. Ushiromiya Maria wails in despair upon the death of her beloved friend, Sakutarou.
March 25, 2026 at 4:02 PM
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The days long gone. The family that never returned. This week we follow Ange as she picks her way through more of her lonely life, reaching to the past to find answers, and hopefully the path to a better life. #backlogdialogues #whentheycry #umineko
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Alliance of the Golden Witch, Console Version. Ange Ushiromiya as a student at St Lucia Academy deals with her sad and lonely life by talking to the specter of her 'big sis' Maria by way of the only connection she has to her - the diary found among the remains of the Rokkenjima incident. Image from Umineko When They Cry - Alliance of the Golden Witch, Console version. Ange Ushiromiya's childhood memory of Battler winning a prize for her from a UFO Catcher - a set of beaded hair ties, which she plans to use as the vessel for resurrecting Battler.
March 18, 2026 at 4:00 PM
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A fresh perspective. A new player. A girl alone. We have the opportunity now to see everything from a new position, one the game hasn't allowed so far. All it takes is the courage....to fall. #backlogdialogues #umineko #whentheycry
Image from Umineko When They Cry - Banquet of the Golden Witch, Console Version. Ange Ushiromiya leaps in to the night sky as her journey to find the truth of the Rokkenjima Incident begins.
March 11, 2026 at 5:03 PM