Dense Pixels

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The Dense Pixels Podcast is a weekly show that talks about everything you need to know in the video game industry. We give you news, opinionated discussion, the important info on major new releases, and lots of humor from three guys who know, love, and live video games.

TNP Studios


    • Jan 14, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 1h 22m AVG DURATION
    • 385 EPISODES

    4.8 from 70 ratings Listeners of Dense Pixels that love the show mention: dense pixels, terrence, doctor doom, awesome con, looking for something new, crystal light, guysnightmovies, terrance, licks, micah, controller, video gaming, amir, fly eagles, ps4, nintendo, wii, conventions, best video game podcast, swimming.


    Ivy Insights

    The Dense Pixels podcast is a fantastic show that combines gaming news, hilarious commentary, and insightful opinions in a way that keeps listeners engaged and entertained. Hosted by Brad, Terrence, and Micah, this podcast brings a unique blend of knowledge and humor to the world of video games.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the hosts' ability to provide informative yet entertaining discussions about new games and trends in the gaming industry. They offer their honest opinions on various topics and aren't afraid to voice their criticisms or praise for different games. The hosts also have great chemistry together, often engaging in funny banter and sharing personal anecdotes that keep the show lively.

    Another positive aspect of Dense Pixels is the inclusion of segments like the Question of the Week, where listeners can submit their own questions and have them read on air. This interactive element adds a personal touch to the podcast and allows for listener engagement. Additionally, the hosts' willingness to discuss wrestling shows adds another layer of entertainment to the podcast.

    While there are many positives about Dense Pixels, one potential drawback is that it may not appeal to everyone who isn't already a gamer or familiar with gaming culture. Some listeners may feel left out or lost during certain discussions if they don't understand references or terminology related to video games. However, even non-gamers can still find enjoyment in listening to the hosts' humorous conversations and interesting insights.

    In conclusion, The Dense Pixels podcast is an outstanding show that offers a mix of comedy, news, and opinion on all things video games. The hosts bring their own unique perspectives while maintaining a fun atmosphere throughout each episode. Whether you're a hardcore gamer or just interested in hearing entertaining discussions about video games, this podcast is definitely worth checking out.



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    Latest episodes from Dense Pixels

    Sonic x Shadow Generations, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Switch 2 Reveal, and Much More!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 71:16


    Brad has been diving into Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, and it's absolutely fantastic. Carrie shares her thoughts on Sonic x Shadow Generations and explains why Sonic fans are eating good right now. Awesome Games Done Quick wraps up an incredible event, raising $2.5 million for charity. Ubisoft delays Assassin's Creed Shadow again and attempts to justify the move with questionable reasoning. We also share our 2025 gaming resolutions and discuss the swirling rumors of an imminent Switch 2 announcement.

    Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Echoes of Wisdom, Okami, and Much More!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2025 87:13


    We're back from the holiday break, and we've been diving into some incredible games! Carrie has joined the crew in tackling the epic Metaphor ReFantazio. We share our impressions of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, and Okami HD. The PEGI ratings board delivers a hilariously misguided content rating for Balatro. Meanwhile, we discuss the surprising revelation that at least one NFL owner uses Madden NFL Football to evaluate player acquisitions. Finally, we explore why publishers are more likely to take lessons from the failure of Concord than the success of Marvel Rivals.

    The Game Awards 2024, Capcom On Top, xDefiant Shutdown, and More!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2024 91:27


    We recap the 2024 Game Awards, which somehow turned out to be one of the best video game shows…ever? From our takes on the winners to a breakdown of the smorgasbord of world premiere trailers, we dive into everything that made the night unforgettable. Ubisoft strikes again with the planned shutdown of their multiplayer shooter xDefiant, and we discuss how it went so wrong. Plus, a surprising connection between video games, Baltimore, and the alleged CEO shooter.

    2024 Game of the Year Podcast!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2024 87:16


    It's our 2024 Game of the Year show! We dive into the games that defined our year and brought us the most joy, excitement, and surprises. Which title will take home the coveted Dense Pixels Game of the Year award? Tune in to hear our top picks, honorable mentions, and the ultimate winner of 2024.

    Star Wars Outlaws, Humanity, Elon Musk AI Gaming, Steam Lawsuit, and More!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2024 64:46


    It's a lighter week in the wake of winter, but there's plenty to discuss. MIcah caved and bought Star Wars Outlaws; How is he liking it? Brad recommends spatial puzzle game Humanity. Elon Musk claims he wants to save video games by creating an AI-focused gaming studio, and we explore why this idea—and Musk himself—deserves skepticism. Valve is facing a class-action lawsuit over its Steam commission structure, leading to a broader conversation about how Valve could reshape their business to better support the gaming industry as a whole. Finally, a massive Dense Pixels Post Office segment features our thoughts on using exploits in games and a look back at which games got traed in the quickest during our GameStop careers.

    Dragon Age: The Veilguard Review, Rococop: Rogue City, FromSoftware, PlayStation, and More!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 97:53


    Micah has finished Dragon Age: The Veilguard and shares whether the game improved from his initial impressions and who it's best suited for. Brad returns to VR, throwing punches in Batman: Arkham VR, and finally dives into the Peggle-roguelike Peglin, which he's finding utterly delightful. Brad also takes on crime in dystopian Detroit while playing Robocop: Rogue City. Sony is making waves with an attempt to acquire anime giant Kadokawa, a move that would effectively give them control over FromSoftware. The PlayStation Portal receives a long-awaited update, while rumors swirl about Sony entering the premium handheld console market. Lastly, Micah and Brad discuss their frustrations with AEW storytelling following Full Gear.

    The Game Awards Nominees, Tetris Forever, Balatro, Nintendo Lawsuit, Tariffs, and More!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2024 95:34


    We break down the 2024 Game Awards nominee slate and address the controversy surrounding Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree's nominations. Micah surprises everyone by playing—and enjoying—Balatro. Brad shares his experience with the interactive museum-style game Tetris Forever and gives his impressions of The Rise of the Golden Idol, calling it a stellar follow-up to the original. GOG continues to stand out as a rare advocate for preserving classic video games. Nintendo is back in the courtroom, this time targeting a game pirate flaunting their actions. Finally, we analyze the impact of looming U.S. tariffs on the console market and how they may reshape buying habits.

    Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Firewalk Studios, Ubisoft NFT Games, and More!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024 79:35


    Micah shares his in-depth impressions of Dragon Age: The Veilguard, detailing how this game stands apart within the Dragon Age series but noting that it might not appeal to every fan, possibly even himself. We analyze the shutdown of Firewalk Studios, discussing who bears responsibility for the failure of Concord. Additionally, we dive into the implications of the recent QA walkout at Activision Blizzard and how it's influencing remote work dynamics in the industry. Ubisoft is at it again, launching a new NFT game that shows just how attuned they are to current trends. Lastly, we ponder why insurance companies consistently produce the most memorable TV commercials.

    Dragon Age, Metaphor ReFantazio, Netflix Game Studio Closure, Nintendo's MMO, and More!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 69:45


    Micah shares his thoughts on the official Dragon Age: Vows and Vengeance podcast and expresses concerns about the direction of The Veilguard. He also dives into Metaphor ReFantazio, discussing how it evolves the Shin Megami Tensei/Persona formula. Brad is deeply immersed in the new Diablo IV endgame content, particularly enjoying the challenges in the Kurast Undercity and Dark Citadel areas. Meanwhile, Netflix faces challenges in gaming as it closes Blue Studios, highlighting the difficulties for media companies in the gaming space. The ESA has once again blocked efforts to advance video game preservation, sparking further debate. Roblox finally makes strides toward better protections for young users amidst increased scrutiny. We also consider if Nintendo's MMO playtest was intentionally leaked. Plus, Tim Walz impresses by showing off his Crazy Taxi skills.

    Choose Wisely! (Hades II Update, Vampire Survivors Castlevania, Potential Console Tariffs)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2024 54:45


    Brad shares his experiences with more demos from Steam Next Fest, diving into why the Zachtronics Solitaire Collection has been capturing his attention. Carrie provides her early thoughts on the Olympus update for Hades II, offering insight into its latest changes. Meanwhile, Vampire Survivors is coming full circle with an exciting announcement: a new Castlevania-themed DLC called Ode to Castlevania. We also discuss the potential impacts of Trump's proposed tariffs on video game consoles and recent reports surrounding Bandai Namco's controversial employee "expulsion rooms."

    Metaphor: ReFantastico (Metaphor: ReFantazio, D4 Vessel of Hatred, Alarmo, Next Fest)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2024 67:03


    Brad shares his thoughts on Metaphor: ReFantazio after spending significant time with it, highlighting the evolution of the battle system and the integration of social links into party development. He also dives into the Diablo IV expansion Vessel of Hatred, discussing the improvements made to the game's systems and leveling. Nintendo's latest hardware release is an unexpected motion-sensing alarm clock called Alarmo, and we discuss its potential impact. We explore the wider ramifications of Epic Games' recent success against Google in court and what it could mean for the gaming industry. Meanwhile, The Pokémon Company experienced a massive data breach, revealing unused monster designs and game source code. Finally, we debate whether we'll ever see another proper Phantasy Star game from Sega.

    Ubisoft is in Disarray (Metaphor ReFantazio, UFO 50, Halo Studios)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2024 67:12


    We share our impressions of the Metaphor: ReFantazio demo as we anticipate its full release. Carrie dives into why the Monster Hunter Stories games are underrated gems in the turn-based RPG genre. Brad has more thoughts on UFO 50 and why he expects it to rank among his top games of 2024. Ubisoft is in turmoil with a delay to Assassin's Creed: Shadows and a steep drop in their share price. We discuss how the publisher ended up in this situation and what could be the best path forward for them. Meanwhile, Microsoft has fans excited as they look to revitalize the Halo franchise with the transition to Unreal Engine 5.

    Sticker Shock (PS5 Pro, State of Play, Switch 2 Rumors, Palworld Lawsuit)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2024 82:56


    Sony has announced the PlayStation 5 Pro at the staggering price of $700. We debate whether we're planning to get one and if this signals the future of console pricing. Sony's State of Play brought several big announcements, with the standout reveal being the Ghost of Tsushima sequel, Ghost of Yotei. Brad shares his impressions on the quirky game collection UFO 50. Additionally, we discuss the industry's recent layoffs, Unity canceling its controversial fees, and Nintendo Switch 2 leaks and rumors.

    Astro Space Marine (40K Space Marine 2, Astro Bot, AEW All Out)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 90:18


    Micah is about to dive deep into the Warhammer 40,000 universe as he begins his journey with Space Marine 2. Meanwhile, Brad is not playing Space Marine because he's been engrossed in Astro Bot and has a lot to say—though he's holding back to avoid spoilers. He's also been spending some time with Age of Mythology. We also discuss the recent agreement between SAG-AFTRA and a developer over the use of AI, the persistent harassment faced by female players online, and the Days Gone director's frustration over the portrayal of his game's protagonist. Finally, we have thoughts on AEW's penchant for extreme violence, particularly following the controversial All Out event.

    We're (Not) Gonna Live Forever (Concord shutdown, Bungie struggles, Songs of Conquest

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2024 72:43


    In this episode, we discuss Sony's surprising decision to quickly delist the troubled shooter Concord and whether we think it will return as a free-to-play title or if it's gone for good. We also dive into Randy Pitchford's...interesting comparison of Gearbox Software to The Beatles and the recent layoffs at Rocksteady following the underperformance of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. Additionally, we touch on the ongoing contract disputes between unionized staff at Raven Software and Activision. Brad, fully immersed in strategy games, shares his impressions of XCOM 2 and Songs of Conquest. To wrap things up, Brad celebrates the recent Oasis reunion announcement by discussing his favorite songs from the band.

    Monster Hunter Wilds Looks LEGIT (Gamescom, Civ 7, Black Myth Wukong, Concord)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2024 91:28


    In this episode, we react to the exciting announcements from Gamescom, with a particular focus on Monster Hunter Wilds and Sid Meier's Civilization VII. We discuss the overwhelming success of Black Myth: Wukong on Steam and how its achievements are somewhat overshadowed by the controversial instructions given to content creators. We also delve into Concord's disappointing initial response on PC, questioning the future of this new hero shooter. Meanwhile, Carrie shares her positive impressions of the early access farm sim Fields of Mistria. Finally, we extend the episode with an in-depth Q&A session in the Dense Pixels Post Office.

    The Streisand Effect (Black Myth Wukong, Deadlock, Tim Walz' Dreamcast)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2024 79:54


    In this episode, we discuss the recent controversy surrounding The Verge and its decision to publish information about Valve's secret shooter Deadlock. We also touch on the unusual request from the Black Myth: Wukong studio, asking influencers to avoid including feminist propaganda or COVID-19 references in their coverage. Micah expresses his ongoing frustrations with Fortnite and why the game never seems to sit right with him. We wildly speculate as to what Dreamcast game VP candidate Tim Walz was into that got his console taken away. Finally, Brad shares his experience venturing into the expansive world of Stellaris.

    How is David Zaslav Still Employed? (WB Games, Tango Gameworks, Borderlands movie)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2024 58:12


    In this episode, we delve into the critical juncture facing WB Games as they consider whether to start licensing their IPs and exit game development or potentially sell off their studios. This discussion comes amid significant industry changes, including BioWare's reflections on lessons learned from Anthem and Meta's decision to shut down Ready at Dawn.We also explore the inspiring story of Balatro developer localthunk, who has taken unique steps to protect his game's integrity after his death. Additionally, we examine the disappointing box office performance of the Borderlands movie and Brad's thoughts on why Homeworld fell short for him within the 4X grand strategy genre.

    Failure of Leadership (Bungie Layoffs, AI is BS, Game Informer)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2024 65:34


    This week, we recap the tumultuous events at Bungie. The company laid off over 200 employees, a move that has sparked discussions about their possible misleading of Sony before the acquisition. We explore why Pete Parsons, Bungie's CEO, deserves a significant portion of the blame and argue that leadership should bear greater responsibility in such crises. We also speculate on the future of Bungie's properties currently in development.Meanwhile, EA Sports reveals their "integration" of AI and machine learning into the upcoming College Football 25 game. Intel announces a significant layoff of 15,000 jobs, marking it as one of the most consequential changes in its history. Additionally, Game Informer magazine is closing its doors after 33 years, marking the end of an era in gaming journalism.

    Please Ignore the Concern Trolls (AC: Shadows, Voice Actors Strike, Gaming Unionization)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2024 78:25


    The crew recaps the highlights from EVO 2024. Video game actors confirm strike action over AI concerns. Bethesda and Activision Blizzard employees have successfully unionized, creating the largest video game unions in the game industry to date. Humble Games shutters as Ziff Davis reckons with the challenges of publishing in the game industry and why media corporations might not be a good fit for that business. Sony's Concord open beta on Steam didn't go well, drawing widespread criticism. The FTC claims Xbox's Game Pass price hike is consumer harm it warned about. Netflix is developing over 80 games, planning to launch one each month. Ubisoft addresses the Japanese community's concerns regarding Assassin's Creed: Shadows in the wake of continued concern trolling from the worst areas of the internet. Finally, Brad gives a review of the brief but charming puzzler Donut County.

    Childhood Rat Casino (Game Pass Price Increase, Manor Lords, Rogue Trader)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2024 69:00


    Xbox Game Pass is getting price increases and a standard tier with no day-one releases, which leads us to a tangent about how Nintendo is about the only game maker who could possibly get away with this. Microsoft says plainly in a new ad that you don't need an Xbox to play Xbox games. An indie game publisher notably explains how they prioritize developer health over profits. External translators hired for Nintendo projects bemoan lack of credit in almost every big title. Brad gives even more impressions on Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader and finds surprising comparisons with the Mass Effect series.

    Final Fantasy's Dawntrail Vacation (FFXIV: Dawntrail, Warhammer 40K: Rogue Trader, Apex Legends)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2024 72:42


    Carrie takes a trip to the Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail expansion and explains why some of the criticism of the new content is off the mark, and the best way for new players to enter the game. Summer Games Done Quick raises over $2.5 million, taking its lifetime total beyond $50 million (also a dog hit a homer in Ken Griffey Jr Presents Major League Baseball). Apex Legends is evolving its battle pass by splitting it in two and charging players twice in a naked greed play by EA. Brad raves about Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader and explains why it's a great introduction to the 40K universe.

    Disrespectful Behavior (Dr. Disrespect admission, Art of Rally, Kong Dong)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2024 64:56


    Dr Disrespect admits Twitch ban due to messages with minor in the direction of being inappropriate. Dr Disrespect continued to send sexually explicit messages to minor after their age was known, former Twitch employee says. Donkey Kong could have been called Kong Dong, Nintendo court documents state.Brad returns to Art of Rally and finds a lot to love in this minimalist rally racer. We prognosticate who will win the briefcases at Money in the Bank this weekend. 

    Git Gud, Scrubs! (Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree, Steam Next Fest)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2024 57:45


    Brad and Carrie discuss the demos that stood out to them during the most recent Steam Next Fest. Brad is checking out space grand strategy civ Endless Space 2. Elden Ring publisher calls out Shadow of the Erdtree players struggling with the difficulty of the DLC. Carrie gives her impressions of thatgamecompany's newest release, Sky: Children of Light.

    DEI Banana (Banana Game, Nintendo Direct Reactions, Metroid Prime 4)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2024 72:29


    We react to the summer Nintendo Direct, including thoughts on Metroid Prime 4 footage, Mario & Luigi Brothership, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, and the shocking return of Marvel vs Capcom 2. We discuss Epic acknowledging the issue with Fortnite's free cars being more dangerous than paid ones. Paradox Interactive cancels Life by You. Meme clicker game Banana nears 850,000 concurrent players - why is this happening? Carrie details why Shin Megami Tensai V: Vengeance is a great jumping-in point for the series.

    What We Thought of Summer Game Fest 2024 (AC: Shadows, Dragon Age Veilguard, Gears E-Day)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024 68:23


    The crew shares their overall impressions of the major presentations from this year's Summer Game Fest. We then dive into the games we're most excited about from the event, including Astro Bot, Assassin's Creed: Shadows, Wanderstop, UFO50, Possessor(s), Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Dragon Age: Veilguard, Street Fighter 6 Season 2, Gears of War: E-Day, Perfect Dark, Sonic x Shadow Generations, Monster Hunter Wilds, and Metaphor: Re Fantazio.

    Capitalist Pig BS (Assassin's Creed Shadows, Diablo IV Season 4, Upcoming 2024 Games)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2024 70:14


    In this episode, we discuss the faux outrage surrounding the Assassin's Creed Shadows announcement, highlighting how the situation is both amusing and sad. Carrie and Brad share their most anticipated games for the remainder of 2024. Microsoft executives are reportedly advocating for a flexible approach regarding which Xbox games can launch on PlayStation. Sony names two new CEOs to replace Jim Ryan. Take-Two's boss claims that the publisher has not shut down the studios behind OlliOlli and Kerbal Space Program 2. Brad talks about the incredible fun he is having with the new Diablo IV season and the Loot Reborn update.

    Won't Some Please Thing of Phil Spencer? (Xbox Closures, Hades II, EA Ads, V Rising)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2024 95:33


    In this episode, Brad and Carrie dive deeper into their experiences with Hades II early access, sharing more detailed thoughts after spending additional time in the game. Brad explores V Rising but questions if survival games are his thing. Carrie returns to the Capital Wasteland, revisiting Fallout 3 after several years.The gaming industry faces significant changes as Xbox shuts down several Bethesda studios, including the developers of Redfall and Hi-Fi Rush. Arkane's boss criticizes Microsoft executives for these closures. Xbox Studios' boss emphasizes the need for smaller, award-winning games, despite closing Tango Gameworks. Xbox President addresses the studio closures, stressing the long-term health of the business. Discussions around Call of Duty on Game Pass and a potential price hike are ongoing. Concerns about Xbox leadership's consistency in rewarding success versus failure are raised.In other news, Helldivers 2 receives overwhelmingly positive reviews. Sony issues refunds for Ghost of Tsushima PC orders after implementing a new PSN requirement. EA's CEO discusses the interest in using AI to speed up game development and the potential inclusion of in-game ads in AAA titles. GameStop considers buying graded Pokémon Trading Card Game singles.

    GOTY Shock Drop (Hades II, Helldivers II Fiasco, Private Division Closure)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2024 60:40


    Supergiant Games surprised everyone by releasing Hades II in early access, and Brad shares his initial impressions of this highly anticipated title, which is poised to become one of the year's biggest hits. Additionally, Brad uncovers a hidden gem in Minishoot Adventures, as we wonder why we don't see more games dip into the classic Zelda-style well. Meanwhile, we delve into the absurdity of the Helldivers II saga, recounting the series of events that led to its controversial week and Sony's complete own goal for no real tangible gainIn other industry news, there's upheaval at Private Division as the vast majority of its staff reportedly face layoffs by Take-Two. Square Enix also appears to have canceled games, signaling a shift towards a more selective approach in the future.

    Terminally Online Weirdos (Stellar Blade, Tales of Kenzara: Zau, 32-bit Console Draft)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2024 54:01


    Micah shares his impressions of two exciting games, Tales of Kenzara: Zau and Stellar Blade. However, the mood shifts when we inform Micah about the online discourse surrounding Stellar Blade's main character, Eve. Meanwhile, Carrie delves deeper into Final Fantasy VII Remake, offering her thoughts on a key aspect of the game's progression. In industry news, we discuss the reluctance of game publishers to support libraries for preserving online games. Shifting gears, we engage in a lively debate as we draft our picks for the best 32/64-bit game console, inviting listeners to weigh in on who chose the best one.

    The 500th One (Embracer Group Disbanded, Take-Two Layoffs, Fallout Show)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2024 70:59


    In our milestone 500th episode, we celebrate with some exciting updates! Carrie surprises us all by revealing her newfound role in a metal band and shares her exhilarating experience performing at VGM Con in Minnesota. Meanwhile, we dive into industry news, including Embracer's plan to split into three companies, with highlights on Middle Earth Enterprises and Friends. Additionally, we discuss Ghost of Tsushima's milestone as the first PlayStation game to offer PC trophy support. Carrie also expresses her enthusiasm for the new Amazon Prime Fallout show. In legal news, we cover 2K's victory in a lawsuit brought by LeBron James' tattoo artist and Take-Two's recent layoffs, despite earlier claims of no current plans for layoffs. To cap off the episode, we reminisce about our listeners' favorite moments from the first 500 episodes of Dense Pixels.

    World Wrestling Anime (Wrestlemania XL, FF7 Rebirth Ending, Tip Your Devs)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2024 97:27


    In this episode, Brad shares his impressions of two roguelikes, Fights in Tight Spaces and Slice & Dice. Meanwhile, Micah passionately discusses the Nomura-ing of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth's ending. We also delve into former Blizzard boss Mike Ybarra's perspective on game development, as well as Saber Interactive founder's comments on the scrutiny faced by Embracer. Additionally, we hear insights from Larian Publishing Director regarding industry layoffs. Furthermore, we address allegations of toxic workplace culture at Life is Strange developer Deck Nine and the rumored casting of Keanu Reeves as Shadow in the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie. To wrap up, we share our thoughts on Wrestlemania XL.

    What the Hell Was That?! (Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Russian Game Console, Gearbox)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2024 73:11


    In this episode, Micah shares his impressions of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, while Carrie provides her initial thoughts on Final Fantasy VII Remake. Micah also delves into his experiences with Rise of the Ronin, exploring whether its various components come together to create something special. Additionally, we discuss Phil Spencer's interest in expanding digital storefronts like the Epic Games Store or itch.io to Xbox, as well as Vladimir Putin's directive to explore the development of a Russian games console. Furthermore, we cover Take-Two's acquisition of Gearbox from Embracer for $460 million and Embracer CEO's stance on the timing of studio acquisitions. To wrap up, we offer our predictions for Wrestlemania.

    The Ideal Live Service Model (Helldivers 2 Flying Bugs, Stardew Valley 1.6, Larian Studios)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2024 51:23


    In this episode, we delve into the recent update patch for Helldivers 2, exploring the flying bugs terminids and uncovering valuable lessons for the wider gaming industry. Carrie shares her experiences diving back into Stardew Valley with the latest 1.6 update, discussing its impact and improvements. We also discuss comments made at the GDC Awards, including the criticism of publisher greed by Larian Studios head Swen Vincke. We react to the Baldur's Gate 3 news and Larian Studios' decision to move on from the franchise. Additionally, we examine the controversy surrounding microtransactions and DLC in Dragon's Dogma 2 as revealed in recent Steam reviews.

    Finally, Some Good Gaming News (Capcom Salary Increases, Saber Interactive, Bobby Kotick TikTok)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2024 68:35


    Capcom is increasing its starting salary in Japan by more than 25%, aiming to attract and retain talent. Activision QA workers unionize, demanding better working conditions as over 600 employees are laid off. Embracer Group confirms the $247 million sale of Saber Interactive assets and withdraws from Russia amid ongoing conflict. Former Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick reportedly expresses interest in purchasing TikTok. SAG-AFTRA considers striking over AI terms in video game contracts. Star Wars Battlefront Classic Collection faces critical errors at launch, disappointing fans. Rooster Teeth shuts down under Warner Bros, signaling changes in the entertainment industry. Finally, Carrie discusses Nobuo Uematsu's comments on integrating film-style scores into gaming.

    This Sucks and I Hate It Here (Playstation layoffs, EA layoffs, Nintendo Yuzu Lawsuit, Apple Arcade)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2024 72:41


    PlayStation is reducing its workforce by around 900 employees, approximately 8% of its total staff. EA has announced further layoffs affecting about 670 employees. There's a discussion about the permission structure around layoffs in the game industry and whether it will lead to consolidation or a crash. The creator of a Switch emulator settled a lawsuit with Nintendo for $2.4 million. Toys for Bob, known for Skylanders and Crash Bandicoot, is leaving Activision to become an independent studio. Brad explores the excellence of the original Half-Life and its relevance for modern developers. Developers express concerns about the future of Apple Arcade. Some Tekken 8 players express frustration over the game adding microtransactions.

    Worked Into a Shoot (Xbox Exclusive Plans, Balatro, Nintendo Partner Direct)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2024 71:25


    Brad is completely captivated by the new poker-styled deckbuilding roguelite Balatro. Microsoft announced some games moving out of their exclusive catalog, raising questions about PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase revealed exciting new releases. EA Sports plans to iincentivize college players to appear in their upcoming game, College Football 25.

    Spreading Democracy (Tekken 8, Helldivers II, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Disney Epic Games)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2024 90:13


    Micah shares his excitement about Tekken 8, expressing his belief that it could be the best installment in the Tekken series thus far. Brad enthusiastically dives into Helldivers II, describing it as one of the finest online shooters he has ever experienced and expressing his delight while playing. Micah delves into his immersive experience with Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, highlighting how it pays homage to longtime fans of the franchise and captures their hearts. Disney announces a significant investment in Epic Games, the maker of Fortnite, with a stake of $1.5 billion, marking a notable development in the gaming industry. IGN creators' guild unionizes, impacting the landscape of games journalism and raising discussions about labor rights in the field. The FTC appeals against Microsoft's acquisition of Activision, amid concerns about potential layoffs resulting from the deal. Brad shares his top picks from Steam NextFest demos, including Balatro, Gatekeeper, Tales of Kenzara: Zao, and The Land Beneath Us, discussing their standout features and gameplay experiences.

    ...Which Was the Style at the Time (Suicide Squad Reviews, Microsoft Exclusives, We Want Cody)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2024 81:09


    Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League receives worryingly low Metascore and Steam player count, raising concerns about its reception and performance in the gaming community. Reports surface alleging that employees at The Day Before studio face fines for mistakes, shedding light on potential workplace issues within the company. Blizzard appoints a former Call of Duty boss as its new president, signaling leadership changes within the company. Microsoft is reportedly considering releasing their exclusives on PlayStation, generating discussion about their future as a hardware maker in the games industry. Carrie shares her impressions of Persona 3 Reload, discussing how it compares to the original releases and its impact on the gaming experience. Carrie and Brad host an extended edition of the Post Office, covering topics such as Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari and Wrestlemania booking involving Cody Rhodes and The Rock.

    This is Going to Be a Trainwreck (Microsoft layoffs, Suicide Squad Reviews, Tekken 8)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2024 83:59


    Microsoft announces a significant layoff of 1,900 employees across Xbox and Activision Blizzard, signaling major changes within the gaming industry. Riot Games, the developer of League of Legends, follows suit with layoffs affecting 530 employees, highlighting ongoing challenges in the industry. The studio behind Destroy All Humans cuts half of its staff, reflecting a trend of layoffs affecting game developers. Eidos Montreal cancels a Deus Ex game, leading to further layoffs and raising questions about the future of the franchise. Blizzard announces a new era of Overwatch esports through a partnership with Saudi funding, signaling shifts in the competitive gaming landscape. Carrie shares her enjoyable experience at MAGfest, a gaming and music festival, offering insights into gaming community events. Rocksteady's Suicide Squad early access launch faces bugs, highlighting challenges in game releases. Brad gives a favorable review of Brotato, a game that compares favorably with Vampire Survivors. Micah briefly shares his impressions of Tekken 8, offering initial thoughts on the latest installment in the fighting game series.

    Legally-Distinct Pokemon (PalWorld, Comfortable Not Owning Games, Halo Infinite)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2024 85:02


    The game PalWorld has achieved over 5 million copies sold in just three days; we have questions about its potential longevity and whether it will become a gaming juggernaut. Ubisoft's subscription boss suggests that consumers need to be comfortable with not owning games, reflecting a shift in the gaming industry towards subscription models. Rocksteady Studios founders have established a new studio called Hundred Star Games; what does that portend for Rocksteady Studios? Square Enix experimented with AI technology for FoamStars; is this the beginning of a slippery slope? A GDC survey reveals that one-third of developers have been impacted by layoffs in the last 12 months, shedding light on challenges within the gaming workforce. The announcement of Halo Infinite's Season 5 being the last and the switch to smaller updates raises discussions on the game's classification as a success or failure. Lastly, a quirky note about speedrunning a dog are mentioned.

    Son-icide (Tekken 8, Price of Persia The Lost King, More Layoffs, The Year of AI)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2024 74:28


    Carrie starts the podcast by emphasizing that there are no excuses left to try Golden Sun.We discuss concerns raised by actors regarding the groundbreaking SAG-AFTRA AI voice agreement.The team shares their gaming resolutions for 2024.We discuss issues related to profitability and layoffs at Twitch and Discord, respectively.Micah provides his impressions of the new Prince of Persia: The Lost King demo, exploring its quality compared to reviews. And we talk some Tekken 8 in advance of its release (and why Brian Cox is awesome).

    Hit by a Bus (Bobby Kotick is Gone, Tetris Defeated, Sonic Symphony, Hitman: Freelancer)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2024 85:20


    In the latest podcast episode, discussions include revelations from a former Call of Duty developer who criticizes Bobby Kotick's decisions, claiming they negatively impacted game quality.A 13-year-old achieves a remarkable feat by becoming the first person to beat Tetris, showcasing exceptional gaming skill.The exorbitant cost of the Star Citizen Legatus Ship Pack, priced at $48,000 RSI, raises eyebrows and sparks conversation about in-game purchases.Brad shares why the indie puzzler Chants of Sennar doesn't resonate with him, providing personal insights into the game.Carrie recounts her experience at the Sonic Symphony concert, highlighting the immersive and captivating elements of the event.Brad explores how Hitman's Freelancer mode has breathed new life into the game, discussing the positive impact on the longstanding franchise.The hosts engage in a conversation about the games from 2023 that they still intend to explore, expressing anticipation and curiosity.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5941715/advertisement

    Like a Dragon Proselytization (Against the Storm, Persona 5 Tactica, The Man Who Erased His Name)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2024 77:47


    In the latest podcast episode, the hosts discuss significant developments in the gaming industry, including a reported hack on Insomniac Games impacting data related to Wolverine and Spider-Man 3.Versus Evil experiences closure, affecting titles like TinyBuild, Banner Saga, and Pillars of Eternity. The hosts delve into the consequences and implications of such closures on the gaming landscape.PlayStation undergoes a U-turn regarding the removal of Discovery content that users had paid for, sparking discussions on user backlash and platform decisions.The episode also features the hosts sharing their impressions of several games, providing insights into Against the Storm, Persona 5 Tactica, Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man who Erased His Name, Stellaris Nexus, Sea of Stars, and Darkest Dungeon II.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5941715/advertisement

    Our 2023 Games of the Year Show! (2023 GOTY, Woe is Kojima, Most Emotional Gaming Moments)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2023 89:58


    In this special Game of the Year episode, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about their personal picks for the best games of 2023. They share insights into the standout titles that have left a lasting impression and shaped their gaming experiences throughout the year.The podcast also covers industry news, highlighting the ongoing layoff streak at Embracer, impacting 3D Realms and Slipgate Ironworks. The hosts delve into the cancellation of The Last of Us Online and its multiplayer standalone component, exploring the implications for the gaming community.Hideo Kojima's journey to independence is a topic of conversation, with the hosts reflecting on his decision and the supposed "challenges" he faced, being opposed by peers, colleagues, and even relatives.Additionally, the hosts explore the emotional aspects of gaming, discussing the most poignant moments that resonated with them throughout the year.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5941715/advertisement

    The Awards Show to Celebrate...the Presenters? (The Game Awards 2023 recap, Fortnite, The Day Before)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2023 61:01


    The latest podcast episode delves into The Game Awards that took place last week, with Brad and Micah providing a recap of the notable winners. The hosts engage in a discussion about the controversy surrounding The Game Awards, particularly the minimal time allocated to award recipients, and share their insights on how the show could improve in the future.Brad and Micah review the announcements at The Game Awards that caught their attention, offering their perspectives on the exciting reveals and developments in the gaming industry showcased during the event.The podcast also covers industry news, including the introduction of new Fortnite worlds featuring an array of content, Epic Games' unexpected win in a Google case, the cancellation of The Day Before by Fntastic, the closure of Timesplitters studio Free Radical Design, Microsoft QA workers unionizing under CWA, and the revelation that 15 percent of Baldur's Gate 3 playtime is spent in character creation.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5941715/advertisement

    Yes, We'll Talk About the GTA 6 Trailer (Grand Theft Auto 6, Steamworld Build review, Video Game Piracy)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2023 68:42


    Brad shares his progress in chipping away at his gaming backlog, providing reviews of Steamworld Build, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge, and Unpacking. The hosts then dive into their impressions of the Grand Theft Auto VI teaser and share their experiences with the iconic Grand Theft Auto franchise.In a thought-provoking segment, the podcast explores the news about Sony removing purchased Discovery TV shows from the PlayStation Store and the broader implications of digital ownership. The hosts also engage in a debate about the ethical stances on "acceptable" video game piracy, reflecting on how their opinions have evolved over the years.The discussion includes insights into Xbox's significant investment, with the revelation that Xbox spends over a billion dollars a year on Xbox Game Pass. Additionally, the hosts cover EA's confirmation of layoffs at F1 developer Codemasters, providing context on the challenges faced by gaming industry developers.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5941715/advertisement

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