Cryptic crossword No 3,096

Oof, that was quite the workout by the end... it actually started off quite accessible, until it wasn't 😆 but all gettable in the end. The theming work is *chef's kiss* once you realise the depth of it. Podium: 29a, 14d, 27d. And thanks for the thematic tipoff, hugely enjoyable!

Thanks Fez. Most of this went in without much struggle but I occasionally checked my answers, especially the 'oddities'. I was clueless regarding the theme; from the photo (and a couple of the clues) I thought it might involve video gaming, an area where I'm happily ignorant. Great clues all around with my favourites being 12a, 15a, 18a, 20a, 26a, 32a, and 8d.

Wow quite a workout! Never heard of the theme but you were right, didn't matter. Congrats on cramming so much in though! Especially liked 10a,12a,26a,29a and 14d,15d,21d,22d

Pretty tough but rewarding, thank you. The theme helped, once I spotted it about halfway through. Lots to like, including 8a, 11a, 23a, 32a, 4d, 21d, 32d.

Typically Fezzy stuff with cunning deletions, creative SLA's and a theme so 'ridiculously obscure' but artfully entwined within the grid. What's not to like? Faves inc 10a, 13a, 15a, 23a, 2d, 5d etc, 6d, 14d, 19d and 25d. Thanks. PM

This must have been super fun to put together. Congrats on maxxing out the acrosses. I needed the "Check" button quite a few times but not for the unfamiliar words which were kindly clued. 2d is awesome, 11a (lovely), 23a (neat), 6d, 9d, 20d, 31d, 32d other favs. Thanks Fez!

Quite a challenge towards the end but I enjoyed the learning experience! My picks were 12a, 21d and 27d.