Its like a book club, for video game nerds.
The boys take a look back at the 2013 Spike Video Game Awards and weigh in on a truly amazing year in gaming. ]-Recorded 5/20/2025. Topic begins at 7:50
Jack's subjects Dave and Matt to his choice title for 2025, "Blue Prince." Does it live up to the critical acclaim that it has received? Recorded 5/5/2025. AI Generated Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Conversation08:53 Exploring Recent Gaming Experiences21:04 Diving into Blueprints: Game Overview30:01 Gameplay Mechanics and Player Experiences33:17 Personal Preferences in Gaming34:39 The Importance of Note-Taking36:22 Immersion and Engagement in Gameplay40:54 Ratings and Personal Experiences46:21 Comparative Analysis with Other Games49:41 Diverse Perspectives on Game Enjoyment55:10 Quality of Life Improvements in Gaming01:01:09 Memorable Puzzles and Rooms01:15:44 Unlocking the Foundation: Key Moments in Gameplay01:18:00 Puzzle Frustrations: The Pushcart Sequence01:21:01 Strategic Room Management: The Importance of Drafting01:25:57 The Joy of Discovery: Unraveling Game Mysteries01:30:47 The Impact of Environmental Storytelling01:50:00 Narrative Depth: The Lore of the Game01:52:47 The Myth of the Mansion and Family Ties01:59:17 Unraveling the Heist and Political Intrigue02:01:05 The Red Prince: A Story Within a Story02:07:43 Game Mechanics and Narrative Depth02:14:18 The State of Gaming: Unique Experiences vs. Mediocrity02:20:05 Final Thoughts and Reflections on Gaming
The boys run through a plethora of games that they have been enjoying before Jack and Dave regale Matt about their experiences with early Game of the Year contender "Split Fiction." Recorded 4/14/2025. AI Generated Chapters00:00 Technical Difficulties and Podcast Setup03:11 Gaming Updates and Recent Plays05:52 Exploring New Game Releases08:50 Game Recommendations and Reviews11:57 Nostalgia in Gaming and Franchise Connections15:01 Indie Game Discoveries and Steam Deck Experiences17:55 Developer Insights and Game Modifications20:59 Upcoming Titles and Community Challenges30:31 Exploring New Game Titles33:08 Unique Gameplay Mechanics36:06 Diving into Split Fiction46:06 The Strengths and Weaknesses of Split Fiction53:53 Gameplay Experiences and Replay Value59:54 Dialogue and Storytelling in Games01:08:33 Game Mechanics and Side Stories01:11:11 Immersive Soundtracks and Visuals01:14:06 Unique Level Designs and Boss Fights01:18:36 Innovative Gameplay Mechanics01:21:33 Final Level Dynamics and Collaboration01:28:39 Game Design Philosophy and Player Experience
It happens to every podcast... After 125+ episodes we finally had an issue with recording that cost us an episode. This episode is lost, but at least Jack's ranting about minimalism will live on! Recorded 3/31/2025
Matt and Jack finally experience Dave's most beloved video game franchise and share their thoughts. Is this a contender for Game of the Year 2025? Recorded 3/17/2025AI Generated Chapters02:03 Gameplay Experiences and Initial Impressions04:58 Diving into Monster Hunter Wilds08:08 Combat Mechanics and Weapon Choices10:45 Menu System and Learning Curve13:58 Weapon Mechanics and Player Strategies17:05 The Role of Multiplayer and Cooperation20:07 Wound System and Combat Dynamics22:49 Monster Design and Fight Experiences43:54 The Impact of Soundtracks in Gaming45:29 Memorable Dragon Fights and Combat Mechanics48:21 The Role of Companions in Combat50:27 Frustrations with Game Mechanics53:11 Narrative and Character Development in Monster Hunter56:19 The Aesthetics of Monster Design59:06 The Co-op Experience and Multiplayer Dynamics01:02:17 Open World Exploration vs. Structured Gameplay01:08:19 Collecting and Crafting Mechanics in Monster Hunter01:19:10 Character Dynamics and Positivity in Gaming01:24:19 Gameplay Mechanics and Community Engagement01:29:40 Personal Experiences and Game Ratings01:37:35 Future of the Game and Community Expectations
The boys weigh in on the inaugural 2014 Game of the Year Awards with the benefit of hindsight. Recorded 3/3/2025AI Generated Chapter List00:00 Introduction to Indie Games and Telltale's Legacy05:34 Exploring Recent Game Experiences15:31 Diving into Monster Hunter Wilds25:28 The Evolution of Game Awards and Developer Recognition45:08 The Evolution of Indie Games47:29 Best Shooter Games of 201449:55 Debating the Best Shooter55:35 Titanfall's Struggles57:43 Best Performance in Gaming01:01:58 Games for Change and Impactful Titles01:05:34 Best RPGs of 201401:14:11 The Changing Landscape of Game Development01:20:52 Game of the Year Contenders01:29:42 Reflections on 2014's Game Awards
The boys review their favorite boss fights experienced in calendar year 2024. Recorded 1/17/2025AI Generated Chapters00:00 Navigating Work and Health Challenges02:51 Gaming Picks and Strategies04:36 Transitioning into the Main Discussion05:11 Current Gaming Experiences19:05 Top Boss Battles of 202446:06 Honorable Mentions and Final Thoughts50:27 Visual Design and Boss Mechanics in Gaming55:48 Challenging Boss Fights: Learning Through Failure01:00:42 Honorable Mentions: Notable Bosses of the Year01:11:20 Top Picks: The Best Boss Fights of 202401:32:46 New Chapter
The boys are joined by Smart Matt to launch the first ever Couch Co-op Fantasy Video Game Draft, with bragging rights and a video game of the winner's choosing on the line. Recorded 1/27/2025 AI Generated Chapters 00:00 Recent Gaming Experiences and Challenges 00:44 Game Drafting Rules and Strategies 00:56 New Chapter 08:13 Current Gaming Trends and Personal Favorites 17:44 Exploring UFO 50: A Unique Gaming Experience 26:15 Engaging with Game Development and Community 33:35 Drafting Anticipated Games for 2025 51:30 Final Picks and Predictions for Upcoming Titles 57:13 The Appeal of Niche RPGs 01:03:53 Final Picks and Predictions 01:11:32 Reflections on the Draft 01:16:36 Closing Thoughts and Future Expectations 01:27:49 Nerd Stuff
The boys share their favorite games of calendar year 2024. Recorded 1/10/2025. AI Generated Chapter List Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Game of the Year Excitement 00:55 Recent Gaming Experiences and Reviews 09:55 Discussion on Couch Co-op and Multiplayer Games 15:10 Battlefield 1 and Gaming Strategies 20:39 Couch Co-op Experiences 45:48 The Impact of Shadow of the Earth Tree 51:45 Navigating the Challenges of Elden Ring DLC 57:46 Exploring Nine Souls: A Metroidvania Experience 01:05:40 Reflecting on Last Year's Top Games 01:10:45 Alan Wake 2: A Unique Narrative Experience 01:18:39 The Spectacle of Black Myth: Wukong 01:28:39 Visual Spectacle: The Beauty of Black Myth Wukong 01:35:33 Astro Bot: A Testament to Optimism and Family Gaming 01:45:52 Exploring the Depths of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erd Tree 01:55:56 Animal Well: The Magic of Indie Gaming 02:03:13 Dead Cells: The Rogue-Like Experience 02:16:35 Gaming Experiences and Community Engagement 02:23:42 Honorable Mentions and Unique Titles 02:30:00 Subnautica: Exploration and Survival Mechanics 02:37:56 The Impact of Indie Games on the Industry 02:47:22 The Evolution of Deck Builders 02:54:18 Reflections on Game of the Year
The boys discuss their favorite episodes recorded in 2024. Recorded 12/23/2024. AI Generated Chapter List 00:00 Introduction and Holiday Gaming Traditions 10:04 Current Gaming Experiences and Challenges 16:55 Celebrating Milestones: The 100th Episode 23:06 Demo Demolition: A Return to Demos 26:05 In-Depth Discussions: Baldur's Gate 3 and More 29:50 Reflections on Most Hated Games and Memorable Moments 36:22 Reflecting on Favorite Episodes 39:34 Couch Co-op Experiences 42:29 Exploring New Titles and Genres 44:22 The Appeal of Multiplayer Games 48:31 The Impact of Shared Gaming Experiences 50:36 Game of the Year Discussions 54:12 Looking Forward to Future Episodes
The boys discuss the retro survival horror title, "Signalis" and then share their most hated games of 2024. Recorded 2024. Recorded 12/9/2024. AI Generated Chapters 00:00 Gaming Experiences and Console vs. Tablet Debate 00:54 Introduction to Gaming Experiences 15:20 Diving into Signalis: Initial Impressions 34:40 Exploring Themes and Mechanics in Signalis 45:10 Final Thoughts and Comparisons 48:04 Exploring Game Narratives and Replayability 57:13 The Most Hated Games of the Year 01:05:48 Cursed Gaming Experiences 01:11:52 Disappointments and Overhyped Titles 01:24:44 CC Outro.mp3
The boys give their full spoiler review of Alan Wake 2. Recorded 11/11/2024. AI Chapters 00:00 Gaming Experiences and Recent Titles 01:57 Diving into Alan Wake 2: Initial Impressions 07:45 Critique of Alan Wake 2: Gameplay and Combat 13:51 Exploring the Narrative and Atmosphere of Alan Wake 2 21:46 Initial Impressions and Boss Encounters 24:23 Level Design and Navigation Challenges 26:31 Frustrations with the Studio Environment 31:01 Combat Mechanics and Gameplay Experiences 35:13 Narrative and Meta Elements 42:24 Medium of Experience: Game vs. TV Series 54:12 Creativity and Sound Design in Gameplay 57:06 Exploring Remedy's Narrative Complexity 58:07 Character Dynamics and Gameplay Mechanics 59:16 The Impact of Character Interactions 01:01:15 The Role of Zany Characters in Storytelling 01:03:12 Frustrations with Gameplay vs. Narrative 01:05:56 DLC Insights and Future Directions 01:07:23 The True Ending and Its Implications 01:10:04 Cinematic Influences and Personal Experiences 01:14:11 Final Ratings and Reflections on the Game
AI Summary: This conversation explores the evolution of indie games, the importance of fun in game design, community engagement in gaming, and the future of gaming experiences. The speakers discuss how indie games have transformed the gaming landscape, the elements that make games enjoyable, and the role of community in shaping gaming experiences. Recorded 10/29/2024. AI Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Alan Wake 2 04:03 First Impressions and Gameplay Mechanics 08:31 Narrative and Storytelling Elements 11:56 Character Interactions and AI Behavior 16:32 Art Design and Atmosphere 22:15 Game Mechanics and Pacing Issues 27:56 Predictions for Game of the Year Awards 31:38 Indie Game Predictions and Nominations 38:05 Contenders for Game of the Year 44:09 Debate on Game of the Year Candidates 51:38 Final Thoughts on Game of the Year Awards 52:56 Anticipated Titles for 2025
In this episode of Couch Co-op, hosts Matt, Jack, and David Plummer discuss their recent gaming experiences, focusing on Astro Bot and Ender Lilies. They explore the mechanics of Metroidvania games, the impact of haptic feedback in Astro Bot, and the various power-ups that enhance gameplay. The conversation delves into the design of different galaxies within Astro Bot, the challenges presented by boss fights, and the unique mechanics of exclusive levels. The hosts share their thoughts on the game's overall design and their personal experiences with the challenges it presents. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the nuances of Astro Bot, discussing its role as a potential mascot for PlayStation, the emotional connections players form with characters, and the game's design elements. They explore the significance of nostalgia in gaming, the impact of the soundtrack, and the potential for future Astro Bot titles. The conversation culminates in a discussion about the game's final boss and overall ratings, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the title. Recorded 10/14/2024. AI Generated Sound Bites "I think Astro is the new face for Sony." "This game is a celebration of gaming." AI Generated Chapters 00:40 Introduction to Couch Co-op and Recent Games 00:49 Exploring Ender Lilies and Metroidvania Mechanics 08:15 David's Experience with Balutro and Alan Wake 11:02 Astro Bot: A Bright and Fun Game Experience 12:04 New Chapter 13:50 Game Mechanics and Controller Feedback in Astro Bot 16:20 Power-Ups and Unique Abilities in Astro Bot 19:16 Galaxy Exploration: Gorilla Nebula and Feather Cluster 43:38 Boss Mechanics and Gameplay Challenges 44:38 Level Design and Exploration Dynamics 46:24 Unique Level Features and Mechanics 48:10 Tribute Levels and Their Impact 48:46 Underwater Levels and Environmental Design 53:07 Exclusive Levels and Their Unique Mechanics 57:01 Boss Fights and Cinematic Experiences 01:02:22 Challenge Missions and Player Experience 01:08:10 Astro as a PlayStation Mascot 01:15:05 Game of the Year Contender Discussion 01:22:25 2024: A Down Year for Gaming 01:23:39 The Celebration of Gaming IPs 01:25:54 Mastering Hub Worlds in Gaming 01:30:14 Nostalgia and Abandoned Franchises 01:35:36 The Role of Music in Gaming 01:38:00 Future of Astro Bot and Potential IPs 01:43:16 Final Boss and Gameplay Reflections 01:48:13 Ratings and Final Thoughts
In this episode of Couch Co-Op, Matt, Dave, and Jack dive into a variety of video games, sharing their experiences and thoughts on titles like AEW Fight Forever, TowerFall Ascension, Balatro, Midnight Suns, Doom Eternal, Black Myth Wukong, and Astro Bot. They discuss the joys and challenges of couch co-op gaming, the excitement of indie titles, and the nuances of gameplay mechanics. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes, family gaming experiences, and the impact of game design on player enjoyment. Recorded 9/23/2024 AI Takeaways Couch co-op gaming creates memorable experiences with friends. TowerFall Ascension remains a beloved title for its competitive fun. Balatro's mobile release is highly anticipated for its accessibility. Midnight Suns offers a mixed experience with its heavy dialogue. Doom Eternal excels in combat mechanics but lacks engaging narrative. Black Myth Wukong presents a challenging gameplay experience. Astro Bot is a nostalgic celebration of PlayStation's legacy. Game recommendations vary based on personal gaming preferences. The importance of controller capabilities enhances gameplay immersion. Family involvement in gaming can lead to humorous moments. AI Sound Bites "It's basically a book club, only instead of books, we discuss video games." "I think we got set up by..." "It was damn fun, and big reason was being in the same room." AI Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Couch Co-op and AEW Fight Forever 06:13 The Experience of Playing AEW Fight Forever 10:13 Towerfall Ascension: A Nostalgic Return 15:39 Balatro: Exciting Indie Game News 25:18 Midnight Suns: A Mixed Experience 35:53 Doom Eternal: A Classic Revisited 36:10 Doom Eternal: A Combat Masterpiece 44:05 Exploration and Level Design Challenges 50:22 Narrative and Character Critique 55:13 Black Myth: Wukong and Other Game Reviews
Couch Co-op: A video game podcast
It's a mixed bag episode as the boys are joined by old friend and casual streamer Dennis (The Chodie) to discuss "Escape from Tarkov." Then Matt and Jack share their spoiler free thoughts on "Subnautica." Finally, the "Couch Co-op" crew give their first impressions on the trailer for the video game inspired series "Secret Levels." Recorded 8/26/2024. Topic begins at 2:49
The boys are once again joined by "Smart Matt" to further discuss the epic DLC to Elden Ring, this time with full spoilers. Recorded 8/12/2024. Topic begins at 16:01
Jack and Dave experience Matt in stereo with longtime gamer "Smart" Matt joining the podcast to discuss Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree. Recorded 8/2/2024. Topic begins at 13:33
The boys discuss the potential impacts of video game companies moving to subscription-based models. Recorded 7/15/2024. Topic begins at 8:08
The boys get together in person to share their thoughts on the 2017 Game Award nominees and winners. Recorded 7/1/2024. Topic begins at 7:23
The boys have one of their nerdiest conversations yet discussing the rogue deck builder "Balatro," a likely candidate for The Couch Co-op Game of the Year. Recorded 6/17/2024. Topic begins at 9:21 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys review Jack's 2024 game to play, "ANIMAL WELL." Is it just another indie Metroidvania? Recorded 6/3/2024. Topic begins at 11:11 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys discuss their favorite sound effects and voice acting in video games. Recorded 5/20/2024. Topic begins at 5:16 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys offer their opinions on demos for "Street Fighter 6," "Contra Operation Galuga," and "Unicorn Overlord" on PS5. Recorded 5/6/2024. Topic begins at 12:05 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys discuss the surprise announcement of "Slay the Spire 2" and reflect on the era of the PS5. Recorded 4/23/2024. Topic begins at 12:37 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys discuss upcoming video game releases that they are tracking in 2024 and 2025. Recorded 4/9/2024. Topic begins at 13:45 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys run through 3 recent additions to the rogue genre, "Sifu," "Balatro," and "God of War Ragnarök Valhalla DLC." Recorded 3/24/2024. Topic begins at 21:30 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
Dave talks about "Baldur's Gate 3" for 1 hour 20 minutes and 37 seconds. Recorded 3/11/2024. Topic begins at 16:50 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys welcome Trevor from the, "Catching Up On Cinema" podcast to discuss their favorite video game music from 2023. Recorded 2/26/2024. Topic begins at 23:15 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys discuss their favorite boss fights that they experienced in 2023. Recorded 2/12/2024. Topic begins at 17:18 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys celebrate their 100th episode by sharing the most beautiful worlds that they have experienced in videogames. Recorded 1/22/2024. Topic begins at 13:25 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
Matt, Jack, and Dave share their personal top games played in 2023. Recorded 1/8/2024. Topic begins at 16:46 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys touch on some of their favorite episodes recorded in 2023. Recorded 12/11/2023. Topic begins at 39:00 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys discuss music, mechanics, plotlines, and various other aspects of video gaming that irked them in 2023. Recorded 12/1/2023. Topic begins at 12:27 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys follow up on their predictions for the 2023 Game of the Year Awards as the nominees are officially announced. Recorded 11/13/2023. Topic begins at 41:37 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys celebrate Halloween by sharing their thoughts on the "Resident Evil 4" remake and other horror titles. Recorded 10/23/2023. Topic begins at 8:23 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys reveal their age by reviewing some video game titles and franchises where their opinions have changed with time. Recorded 10/9/2023. Topic begins at 8:46 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
Trevor from the "Catching Up On Cinema" podcast joins the boys as they discuss Armored Core 6, Matt's selection for group review. Recorded 9/26/2023. Topic begins at 15:11 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys share their predictions for the 2023 edition of the Game of the Year Awards. Recorded 9/11/2023. Topic begins at 9:22 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
Jack leads a discussion on what may be his favorite game of the year, "Neon White." Recorded 8/27/2023. Topic begins at 10:18 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys share some of their favorite narrative moments in gaming. Recorded 8/14/2023. Topic begins at 43:30 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys discuss notable quality of life implementations in video gaming. Recorded 7/24/2023. Topic begins at 13:05 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
Matt, Jack, and Dave describe their personal rating systems for video games and give scores to some of their favorite games from over 15 years of playing together. Recorded 7/11/2023 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys discuss "Blood and Wine" and "Hearts of Stone," the two extensive DLC chapters of "The Witcher 3." Recorded 6/26/2023 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys discuss the much acclaimed, "Witcher 3," Dave's selection for Game of the Year Showcase. Recorded 6/13/2023 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys discuss upcoming video game releases that they are most excited about. Recorded 5/22/2023 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
Friend of the show Ryan (tool-geek) joins the boys to discuss "Dark Souls 3" and how it compares to "Elden Ring." Recorded 5/9/2023 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys are joined by Trevor from, "Catching Up On Cinema" to discuss game mechanics that they particularly enjoyed. Recorded 4/24/2023 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
The boys discuss the video game puzzles that have irritated them the most. Recorded 4/11/2023 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/couchcoopvideogames/message
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