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69 episodes with bryan wiedey
Rich Grisham and Bryan Wiedey discuss their time with NBA 2K23 so far, largely focusing on the two big feature additions in MyNBA Eras and The Jordan Challenge, before moving on to share thoughts on the upcoming releases of FIFA 23 and NHL 23.
The Press Row Podcast returns after an extended hiatus reuniting three of the OG panelists to discuss the release of Madden NFL 23, take a look ahead to NBA 2K23, and assess the upcoming battle between 2K and EA golf games. Featuring Rich Grisham, Bryan Wiedey (@pastapadre), and Owen Good (Polygon).
Rich Grisham and Bryan Wiedey return to wrap up a year in sports gaming that, depending on perspective, either featured a handful of quality efforts from long-running franchises or will be remembered as one of the worst in the history of the genre. The two discuss what they've been playing - mainly Madden NFL 22 and Forza Horizon 5 - and look ahead to 2022 and new games that could inject life back into the genre.
It's an old-school throwback Press Row Podcast! It's 2013 all over again as Owen Good, Bryan Wiedey, and Rich Grisham get together to compare their next-gen console launch experiences - only this time it's Xbox Series X and Playstation 5!
Two huge news stories hit today as the NCAA appears ready to open up to college athletes profiting off their likenesses and NBA Live 20 has predictably been canceled. Bryan Wiedey and Rich Grisham discuss the ramifications of both. Why does the NCAA news make it more likely that EA Sports brings back NCAA Football video game and when could that happen? Why has NBA Live been canceled for the 4th time in 9 years and does it have any chance of success releasing on the next generation of consoles? On the show this week: Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham) Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
NBA 2K20 launched this week with no shortage of controversy. There were reports of glitches, mismatched expectations, and other assorted technical problems - so, naturally, we get Bryan Wiedey and Rich Grisham together to talk about them. Shocker! Bryan and Rich don't really agree on all that much! But that's what makes Press Row what it is - a place for reasonable and fun conversations about the sports games we love (or love to hate). Check out Bryan's NBA 2K20 review for Sporting News! Enjoy the show!
It's our annual Madden Review Roundtable! Join Rich Grisham, Bryan Wiedey, Kat Bailey, and Mills as they take on Madden NFL 20 in its entirety. From franchise to MUT, Face of the Franchise to online, there's a lot happening this season. What's the verdict?
With Madden NFL 20 having been out through EA Access for a few days Rich Grisham and Bryan Wiedey are brought back together to discuss initial impressions of the game. Discussion in this episode of the Press Row Podcast centers on Face of the Franchise experiences and overall thoughts on gameplay and the dramatic impact that X-Factors are having on it. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
In this episode Bryan Wiedey and Rich Grisham react to the events of EA Play and the E3 press briefings. Reasons to be encouraged by the direction of Madden NFL 20, some questions over decisions being made for FIFA 20, the games that look the best from E3, those that disappointed, Microsoft's new console details, and much more! On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
New legislation has been introduced that would end the practice of loot boxes and other forms of digital monetization in video games. It has bi-partisan support and notable momentum but the process will likely see it’s scope and directives altered. Still, with the potential damaging ramifications for the industry and in particular licensed sports games, it’s important to understand what it all means at this stage and in the bill’s current state, and whether there is real reason for concern for the health and future of video games. Why have legislators decided they have to step in now? Would any sports games survive such an extreme proposal? What is the most likely scenario given how the bill will likely evolve and face challenges along the way? Bryan Wiedey and Rich Grisham discuss on this episode of the Press Row Podcast. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
Big news on Madden NFL 20 has brought Bryan Wiedey and Rich Grisham back together for discussion on the just-revealed rebooted career mode that includes a college football element - what that means for the series, the genre as a whole, and more. Other topics include Madden NFL 20's abnormally early release date and special superstar abilities to differentiate player performance which leads back to the pure skill vs realism/fun factor debate. Also more thoughts on MLB The Show 19's March to October mode. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
In this episode of the Press Row Podcast: Bryan Wiedey and Rich Grisham reunite to discuss recent news including what to expect from MLB The Show 19 as well as its exclusion of an Online Franchise and Take Two and the NBA extending their licensing agreement for $1.1 billion. Additionally there's discussion on the new Alliance of American Football League, Out of the Park Baseball 19 analysis on Bryce Harper and Manny Machado, the 2018 PCA winners and more! On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
With 2018 coming to a close the Press Row Podcast hands out its annual award for Sports Game of the Year! The panel for what is always one of the most anticipated episodes discuss the state of the genre, the strengths and weaknesses of the contenders, and then react to the final results. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer) Daniel Baesel, UberYTwitch (@danielbaesel)
The Press Row Podcast debuted in 2012 and 300 episodes later Rich Grisham, Bryan Wiedey, T.J. Lauerman, and Kris Jardine celebrate reaching the latest milestone by reminiscing and talking about the latest in sports gaming and more. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer) Kris Jardine, Snaggle J (@snagglej)
This week Bryan and Rich discuss how the various sports games are faring in the ultra-competitive marketplace that now also includes different forms of distribution, the NFL and Fortnite partnership, more Forza Horizon 4 and FIFA 19. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
As the Press Row Podcast approaches its 300th episode there's some reflection on its beginnings back in 2012. Discussion then turns to whether the sports games this year have proven to be boring or compelling, drilling into Forza Horizon 4 and Pro Evolution Soccer 2019, and whether the games are worth purchasing on day one given how quickly they are dropping in price. •Support the Extra Life fundraising event on Saturday, Nov 3! On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham) Daniel Baesel, UberYTwitch (@danielbaesel)
Bryan and Rich are back together to talk about the latest developments and stories from the sports gaming world, including why tattoos are part of a legal fight for Take Two and NBA 2K, what lies ahead for the season according to NBA 2K19, and Fight Night Champion being added to the EA Access Vault. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
This week Bryan and Rich catch up on all the different sports games on the scene right now and their two varying approaches to them. Also, they talk about the challenges that they do (or did) have as reviewers, and how the importance of reviews has changed as the gaming industry - and sports games in particular - have evolved. Plus! Our resident racing game expert Greg Sewart stops by in a bonus segment to dive into the new NASCAR Heat 3, and whether or not racing game fans should give it a shot. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham) Greg Sewart, Player One Podcast (@sewart)
The wave of sports games that release within a very condensed window in late summer is now fully upon us with a few more still to come on their heels. Discussion this week centers on those games have stood out and captured the focus of the panelists. That leads to extensive discussion on FIFA 19, Pro Evolution Soccer 2019, and NBA 2K19. Additionally some reaction to the latest news on the upcoming NBA 2K Playgrounds 2 which includes roster additions, release dates, and a higher price. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)
After a whole week away Rich Grisham is reunited with Bryan Wiedey to discuss the many sports games of September, first impressions of Pro Evolution Soccer 2019 and NBA 2K19, the current state of microtransactions, and what non-sports games are peaking interest in the near future. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
It was an incredibly busy week for sports games. The Golf Club 2019 and Pro Evolution Soccer 2019 released. NBA 2K19 has delivered The Prelude and NBA Live 19 is out through its EA Access trial. First impressions on those games and more are discussed in this episode of the Press Row Podcast, while the panel also finds time to express a high level of distress over the sheer number of quality games coming out in the next two months sports and otherwise. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer) Marc Foley, Doddcast (@raincitygamers)
News of the week is discussed in this episode of the Press Row Podcast, including details on a major patch for Madden NFL 19, trailer for MyCareer Mode in NBA 2K19, and comments from EA regarding the possibility of MVP Baseball making a long-awaited return. Before that Bryan and Rich update on progress with the Madden 19 Online Franchise and early returns from the experiment running with the Arcade setting combined with All-Pro difficulty and slider adjustments. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
With several sports games nearing release the discussion in this episode of the Press Row Podcast centers on the two upcoming basketball games and the two soccer games. The first opportunity to play them comes even earlier, with Pro Evolution Soccer 2019's demo out already, a demo for NBA Live 19 and Prologue for NBA 2K19 expected before the month is up, and FIFA 19 a little farther out. How well are the games shaping up and what will the competition between them be like this year? Before all that, Bryan and Rich debate whether the Arcade gameplay style in Madden has become the best way to play. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
The multi-tiered release of Madden NFL 19 is now complete and the game is fully in the wild! After last week's 90 minutes of first impressions, this review roundtable episode of the Press Row Podcast features a full panel of sports game experts discussing everything to do with Madden NFL 19 - going through areas such as gameplay, Franchise, Ultimate Team, and Longshot. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Kat Bailey, USgamer (@the_katbot) Daniel Baesel, UberYoutuber (@danielbaesel) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer) Owen Good, Polygon (@owengood) Full written reviews for Madden NFL 19: Sporting News - USgamer - Polygon
Madden NFL 19 has arrived for those with EA Access and Origin Access subscriptions and is now only days away from its official release. With his complete review out on Sporting News Pastapadre talks with Rich about the game including its strengths, weaknesses, and random observations. Franchise Mode, gameplay, presentation, graphics, Longshot, and much more are covered. A number of listener questions are also addressed. Additionally the controversy over EA Sports removing a reference to Colin Kaepernick from a song on the soundtrack is discussed. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Counting down our favorite sports video game soundtracks in this episode of the Press Row Podcast! Beyond making the picks, and going through some listener choices, the discussion also includes how the music was influential at the time and the way in which the importance of soundtracks has evolved over the years. Additionally the news of the week is touched upon, with initial impressions of the NHL 19 open beta and thoughts on 2K Sports now acting as the publisher for NBA Playgrounds 2. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@ThatSportsGamer) Kris Jardine, SnaggleJ (@SnaggleJ)
Rich has returned from DC and the MLB All-Star festivities and shares thoughts on his experiences at the Home Run Derby, All-Star Game, and with the MLB HR Derby VR game. Bryan and Rich then respond to listener questions, leading into discussions on hype levels for Madden NFL 19, intriguing teams to use in Franchise Mode, why there has been no news yet on NBA 2K19, whether 2K19 will outsell 2K18, what game has been the biggest disappointment this year, and the continued mystery of the delayed NBA Playgrounds 2. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
We look back on the NCAA Football franchise five years after the release of the final edition in the series, NCAA Football 14, on this episode of the Press Row Podcast. The discussion includes a recap of what led to the demise of college sports video games, whether a return is possible in the five years ahead and what would need to happen for that to occur, and the various challenges a video game developer faces with college sports beyond just the current legal complications. Finally, there's some reminiscing over favorite memories playing NCAA Football, from both the panelists and listeners who supplied theirs on Twitter this week. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Owen Good, Polygon (@owengood) Supporting Articles: The Reasons We Loved The NCAA Football Series (Polygon) Why NCAA Football (And College Sports) Video Games Haven't Returned After Five or More Years Absence (Sporting News)
This episode of the Press Row Podcast features extensive discussion on the brand new open-world racing game The Crew 2, a change to the commentary team for NBA Live 19, and the first player ratings for Madden NFL 19. Additionally listener questions are followed up on, which include thoughts on changes to the way games will be monitized going forward and what's happening with the mysteriously-delayed NBA Playgrounds 2. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Pete Dodd, The Doddcast (@atpetedodd)
Following the avalanche of video game news out of EA Play and E3 things in the sports gaming world calmed down for a few days. However it wasn't long until business picked back up with the official reveal of NHL 19 and new info on Madden NFL 19. This episode of the Press Row Podcast includes discussion on NHL 19's new features and Madden NFL 19's presentation improvements, plus responses to a handful of listener questions on topics such as Madden's currently-running closed beta, cross-platform play, boxing games, and more! On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Publisher Electronic Arts held its annual EA Play press briefing on Saturday, including a first look at Madden NFL 19, FIFA 19 and NBA Live 19. Following the show additional details were provided on features for each of the respective games. This special edition of the Press Row Podcast covers all the news from the event which includes Madden making a return to the PC after an absence of over a decade, the return of Longshot story mode for a second season, how the Madden trailer seemed awfully familiar, confirmation of FIFA securing the UEFA Champions League license, NBA Live 19 doubling down on The One career mode, and much more. We also debut the segment "Rich's Fashion Corner" for critiques of how presenters were dressed this year. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)
Before the avalanche of news comes from EA Play and E3 the latest developments in the sports gaming world are discussed in this episode of the Press Row Podcast. Among those topics are NBA 2K19's reveal of the 20th Anniversary Edition (strangely for its 19th year) and who will find the $100 package worth buying, plus Terrell Owens, cover athlete for the Hall of Fame Edition of Madden NFL 19, has decided not to attend the enshrinement ceremony and how that could affect EA Sports' marketing plans. Then Rich Grisham has a fascinating hour long talk with Metalhead Software's Scott Drader on the fantastic Super Mega Baseball 2, going through everything from the development behind the series to decisions on how to initially sell the game which included giving it away as part of the Games with Gold program on Xbox One. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Scott Drader, Metalhead Software (@scottdrader)
With just a week until the kick-off of EA Play and E3 expectations for sports games at the briefings and on the show floor are discussed on this episode of the Press Row Podcast. Other topics include the 2018 FIFA World Cup add-on for FIFA 18 and the first feature news for Madden NFL 19. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) MillsGamingTV (@millsgamingtv)
This episode of the Press Row Podcast tackles topics that include the surprising last-minute delay to NBA Playgrounds 2, the addition of Fight Night Champion to backwards compatibility on Xbox One, and whether one or both could be leading into an E3/EA Play announcement. Then listener questions are taken on what player will be featured on the Madden NFL 19 cover, the benefits and costs to league licenses and more! On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
With the late-breaking news that Madden creative director Rex Dickson has left EA Sports and the mention of the series going in a "new direction" we welcome the person that previously held that same position, Ian Cummings, on this episode of the Press Row Podcast. He's got a new mobile game that just came out right in time for the Kentucky Derby (Horse Racing Manager 2018) and he's able to provide unique perspective on what the change in leadership for Madden might mean for the long-running franchise. Later in the episode there's discussion on the just-released Super Mega Baseball 2 and an early assessment of the first event being held for the NBA 2K League. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Ian Cummings, Third Time Games, (@iantcummings) Download Horse Racing Manager 2018: iOS - Android
Subscription services continue to provide great value and the news on three games impacted by them headlined the week in sports gaming. Discussion on this episode of the Press Row Podcast includes Super Mega Baseball 2 being offered for free to Xbox Live Gold subscribers, PES 2018 being added to the Xbox Game Pass service, and a 20% discount for PlayStation Plus subscribers on NBA Playgrounds 2 which looks to also now have a release date. Additionally there's sadness over the lack of a World Cup game and curiosity over a survey sent out by 2K Sports regarding the reasons why people may have stopped playing NBA 2K18 which hits on some industry and consumer trends. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
A summer of indie games is nearly upon us and among them are Super Mega Baseball 2, NBA Playgrounds 2, and Casey Powell Lacrosse 18. News on those three are discussed in this episode of the Press Row Podcast which also covers the revelation that Pro Evolution Soccer is losing its exclusive UEFA license and progress in a fantasy draft being held for MLB The Show 18. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
This episode of the Press Row Podcast features discussion on the recent NBA 2K League draft, playoff predictions from NBA 2K18 and Franchise Hockey Manager, and the crowning of the Favorite Sports Game Since 2010 with NBA 2K11 and NCAA Football 14 having reached the finals of the tournament. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
MLB The Show 18 has released and we've assembled a small panel to talk all about the game on this episode of the Press Row Podcast. Everything from Diamond Dynasty, Road to the Show, Franchise, gameplay, the removal of modes, predictable trouble with the servers and more is discussed at length. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Kat Bailey, USgamer (@the_katbot) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)
From the latest on any potential return of college sports video games to the impact Fortnite is having on the industry this episode of the Press Row Podcast tackles a number of listener-submitted questions. Additionally the results from the first round of the Favorite Game Since 2010 Tournament are revealed setting up the Elite Eight matchups. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Franchise Mode news for MLB The Show 18 is out and fans are overwhelmingly disappointed by the details, just weeks following the announcement of the removal of Online Franchise. The state of Franchise in The Show - and the sports gaming genre as a whole - is discussed in this episode of the Press Row Podcast. Then it's on to revealing the field of 16 games in the "Favorite Sports Game since 2010" tournament bracket. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@ThatSportsGamer) MillsGamingTV (@MillsGamingTV)
With just two weeks until MLB The Show 18 arrives the final details on what to expect from the game are being revealed. Whether it regards the improvements and additions, or in one case a prominent subtraction, pre-release anticipation for the game has now reached its peak. The removal of Online Franchise has sparked backlash from fans of the mode, who despite being relatively low in numbers are understandably frustrated given the lack of support it has received over the last four years and because it will probably never return. Meanwhile the stalwart Road to the Show is moving towards a performance-based progression system that has removed the distribution of attribute points in favor of archetypes and attribute caps. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@ThatSportsGamer)
2018 is shaping up to be a strong one for the sports gaming genre due in large part to independent developers. The latest game to be announced is The Golf Club 2019 which will act as the third entry in the well-regarded series that began in 2014, but concern is raised whether it will be able to sustain much less grow its consumer base in a graveyard of once annualized sports franchises. Also on this episode discussion regarding the new features revealed for MLB The Show 18's Diamond Dynasty mode and the panelists theorize why there still has been no official FIFA World Cup game announcement from EA Sports. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) MillsGamingTV (@MillsGamingTV)
After a week venturing into the history of baseball video games the Press Row Podcast returns to present day with more discussion on MLB The Show, the announcement of a Casey Powell Lacrosse sequel, the latest eSports developments for NBA 2K18 and FIFA 18, and the NPD results for January which includes an alarmingly low landing spot for EA Sports UFC 3. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
A new season of baseball is once again upon us and on this episode of the Press Row Podcast we look both forward to MLB The Show 18 and back through the history of baseball video games. First it's a discussion of this week's reveal of new features for The Show. Then each panelist counts down through their top five all-time features from baseball video games. The picks are varied and span over 30 years, represent different types of games, features that have proven influential to this day, and those that were simply most memorable. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Paul Sporer, Rotographs/ESPN (@sporer) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@ThatSportsGamer) Kris Jardine, SnaggleJ (@SnaggleJ) MillsGamingTV (@MillsGamingTV) Referenced in this episode MLB The Show 18 stream notes The Fantasy Baseball Black Book 2018
Over 12 years have passed since the release of Madden NFL 06 but the mere mention of the title still conjures up emotions from sports gaming fans. From an industry standpoint it also could be cited as being a major contributor to a turning point around that time in consumer distrust with not just what publishers would say about games before they released, but also what they showed. Former lead designer for the Madden NFL series Ian Cummings joins Bryan Wiedey and Rich Grisham to discuss the events surrounding development of that game. Thanks to a piece from Glixel which included interviews with several parties involved in development we've learned a lot about the behind-the-scenes trials and tribulations and here Ian provides additional perspective and his first-person account of everything that took place. Also in this episode T.J. Lauerman goes through the first reveals for MLB The Show 18 which includes a focus on the improvements made to gameplay and the addition of new legends for Franchise and Diamond Dynasty. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham) Ian Cummings, Third Time Games (@iantcummings) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)
Could Microsoft really be looking at buying Electronic Arts? What would it mean if that actually came about? The big rumor this week is discussed in this episode of the Press Row Podcast. Other topics include more thoughts on EA Sports UFC 3, what Madden NFL 18 predicts for Super Bowl 52, and the remarkable numbers being reached by the FIFA franchise. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham) MillsGamingTV (@millsgamingtv)
In a look forward to the year ahead, the panelists on this episode of the Press Row Podcast go through their top five most anticipated sports games of 2018. The criteria among the panelists varied with the lists including some predictable selections, some surprising ones, and even a few hypotheticals. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham) Daniel Baesal, UberYoutuber (@danielbaesel) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer) MillsGamingTV (@millsgamingtv)
With the Press Row Podcast's 2017 Sports Game of the Year and Racing Game of the Year having been decided we now turn to discussing the most important stories in the sports gaming world from the last year. These stories not only impacted the games in 2017 but could influence the direction of the various franchises and even the genre and the entire industry as a whole. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
A wide open field in 2017 has resulted in the most unpredictable and fascinating Sports Game of the Year voting yet! While many of the games were fantastic in general they all had some serious flaws that detracted from their full potential, and because of that expect there to be no consensus "best" game that will sweep its way to a victory. Will MLB The Show 17 repeat off last year's win with MLB 16? Will NBA 2K18 bounce back or fall even further after the award-winning 2K16 preceded 2K17 slipping to third? Will Madden NFL 18 continue the upward trajectory that saw Madden 17 finish the highest ever for the series as the runner-up last year? Or will it be another game coming from farther back in the pack in a surprise result? On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham) Owen Good, Polygon (@owengood) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer) Kris Jardine, SnaggleJ (@snagglej) MillsGamingTV (@millsgamingtv)
Two of the biggest annual gaming events have just taken place between the PlayStation Experience and The Game Awards. Both were sure disappointments for anyone hoping to see sports games represented. This episode of the Press Row Podcast features discussion on the events and why, despite their place dominating sales charts and high cultural relevance, sports games continue to go without recognition. Also in this episode a look ahead at possible features for NHL 19, the announcement of a second tennis game for early 2018, the addition of player editing to NBA Live 18, and reaction to the beating that video game publisher stocks have been taking from investors recently. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
This episode of the Press Row Podcast features impressions of the beta currently being held for EA Sports UFC 3. With the series coming off an improved effort the potential for the third entry is very high, and the beta has provided the first opportunity to assess gameplay advancements as well as a revamped Ultimate Team mode. Additionally the latest developments involving game monetization are discussed, and specifically the building concern that legislators will put into place roadblocks related to loot boxes/card packs and how that uncertainty is already severely harming EA. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham) MillsGamingTV, Operation Sports (@MillsGamingTV)
It's an especially tumultuous time for the gaming industry as aggressive monetization tactics face intense pushback from media and consumers. Even as sports games consistently reside near the top of the sales charts and generate extraordinary digital revenue publishers are looking ahead for how to not only sustain that success but grow even further. In this episode of the Press Row Podcast the subject of microtransactions/loot boxes and their influence on game design is revisited with discussion on how publishers are now responding to the backlash, the adjustments they are making and will have to consider going forward, and the prospects of a subscription-based future which sports games may be best suited and most prepared for of any genre. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
What can more powerful hardware do to improve some already very good sports video games? We got the answer this week with the release of the Xbox One X and in this episode of the Press Row Podcast the benefits of the pricey new console are examined. The likes of Madden NFL 18, FIFA 18, NBA 2K18, and Forza can now be played in native 4K with HDR (true also of the PS4 Pro) but the improvements go beyond the visuals on Xbox One X. Framerates can be better and loading times are significantly shortened - and Madden is the game that seems to have benefited the most. Other topics discussed include the first news on EA Sports UFC 3 and the release strategy for MLB The Show 18. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
The Ultimate Team style modes in sports games are more popular with consumers than ever before, and they're also leaned on more than ever by publishers for the revenues they provide. What is it about these team building, card collecting modes that have proven to be so compelling and successful? What challenges do they face right now and into the future? A panel of experts on the various modes throughout the genre discuss the phenomenon on this episode. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@ThatSportsGamer) MillsGamingTV, Operation Sports (@MillsGamingTV) Kris Jardine, SnaggleJ (@SnaggleJ) Daniel Baesal, UberYoutuber (@danielbaesal)
Whether it’s the VC in NBA 2K18 or the increased presence of “loot boxes” in games like Star Wars: Battlefront II and Forza Motorsport 7, the influence on development directly related to monetization efforts is at the forefront of discussion right now amongst gaming press and consumers. In this episode of the Press Row Podcast the panel covers why it has taken until now for such immense backlash to formulate, the necessity of publishers/developers to find ways to generate digital revenue post-release, whether games focusing on single-player experiences are going extinct, and also debate the concept of loot boxes being tantamount to gambling. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre) Richard Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Owen Good, Polygon (@owengood)
With the recent avalanche of releases how does a sports gaming fan choose where to spend their money and time? Matthew Kato of Game Informer is welcomed for this episode of the Press Row Podcast to help sort through all the games that have recently arrived. Discussion includes which of the soccer games is the one to get, how microtransactions are affecting series like NBA 2K and Forza, the best sports game for the unfamiliar or inexperienced, the biggest surprises and disappointments as of late, and much more! On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Sporting News/Pastapadre/Hit The Pass (@pastapadre) Richard Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Matthew Kato, Game Informer (@MattKato) GamerSaloon lets you play any game, any time, for any amount of money to win cash prizes. Compete against your friends or anyone in the GamerSaloon community in dozens of individual or team-based competitions. It's safe, secure, and fun! Sign up today by downloading the app or go to GamerSaloon.com and use the code 'pressrow' to get a 50% bonus on your initial deposit. Help the Press Row Podcast and have a lot of fun while you do it!
2K Sports is facing criticism from all sides over the aggressive implementation of Virtual Currency within NBA 2K18. VC is nothing new to the popular basketball franchise however, so why has this become such a story now that mainstream gaming media, Youtube personalities, and consumers are all making their voices heard on the matter? We discuss the circumstances specific to the NBA 2K series that has allowed the situation to blow up, and the necessary pursuit of digital revenue for publishers, in this episode of the Press Row Podcast. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Sporting News/Pastapadre/Hit The Pass (@pastapadre) Richard Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Daniel Baesel, UberYouTuber (@danielbaesel) GamerSaloon lets you play any game, any time, for any amount of money to win cash prizes. Compete against your friends or anyone in the GamerSaloon community in dozens of individual or team-based competitions. It's safe, secure, and fun! Sign up today by downloading the app or go to GamerSaloon.com and use the code 'pressrow' to get a 50% bonus on your initial deposit. Help the Press Row Podcast and have a lot of fun while you do it!
NBA 2K18 and NBA Live 18 came upon their respective releases having traveled dramatically different paths to get there. NBA 2K has grown into the second biggest sports game in the world and is guaranteed to be a smash hit now annually. NBA Live is simply trying to recapture some credibility after eight years defined more by its cancellations than even its sub-par editions. In this episode of the Press Row Podcast both games are examined closely, with areas such as accessibility, gameplay, franchise and story/career modes discussed. The Nintendo Switch version of NBA 2K18 is evaluated and compared to the experience on other platforms. The big post-release subjects related to NBA 2K18 - uproar over the aggressive implementation of VC and vanishing MyPlayer characters - are of course also major subjects. Each basketball game offers advantages over their competitor to consider, but which game is the right one for you? On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Sporting News/Pastapadre/Hit The Pass (@pastapadre) Richard Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Owen Good, Polygon (@owengood) MillsGamingTV, Operation Sports (@MillsGamingTV) Kat Bailey, USgamer, (@the_katbot) GamerSaloon lets you play any game, any time, for any amount of money to win cash prizes. Compete against your friends or anyone in the GamerSaloon community in dozens of individual or team-based competitions. It's safe, secure, and fun! Sign up today by downloading the app or go to GamerSaloon.com and use the code 'pressrow' to get a 50% bonus on your initial deposit. Help the Press Row Podcast and have a lot of fun while you do it!
With limited-time trials available to play for NBA Live 18, NHL 18, and NBA 2K18, this episode of the Press Row Podcast covers first impressions of the three games which all have drastically different circumstances surrounding their release. Live desperately needs to recapture some credibility, NHL is stable but looking to generate new sales to casual consumers, and 2K18 is guaranteed to be a smash hit but is getting fans started early on their careers. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit The Pass (@pastapadre) Richard Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Chris "MillsgamingTV," Operation Sports (@MillsGamingTV)
With Longshot in Madden NFL 18 garnering high praise this episode of the Press Row Podcast features an interview with the architects behind the franchise's first-ever story mode. Mike Young (director, co-writer) and Adrian Todd Zuniga (co-writer) join the show to discuss the process behind crafting the story first as a movie and evolution into a compelling interactive experience for the game that followed. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit The Pass (@pastapadre) Richard Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Michael Young, EA Sports (@MichaelYoungCD) Adrian Todd Zuniga, EA Sports (@atzuniga)
The sports-gaming season is now underway with the release of Madden NFL 18, and following the initial impressions show last week we're back with a panel to break down many aspects of the game in a supersized two hour episode! Longshot story mode, Franchise mode, gameplay, MUT Squads, and more are covered in-depth, with the discussion later ending on some thoughts regarding the way the Madden and sports titles in general are poorly covered by gaming media and the way marketing strategies are being shifted towards "influencers" over websites. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit The Pass (@pastapadre) Richard Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Kat Bailey, USgamer, (@the_katbot) Chris “MillsGamingTV,” Operation Sports (@MillsGamingTV)
Last year Madden was able to establish itself back within the upper-echelon of sports titles, finishing second in the Press Row Podcast Sports Game of the Year voting. Madden NFL 18 hopes to build on that success with the introduction of the series' first ever story mode, the return of online co-op, three new play styles, visual enhancements made possible due to the Frostbite Engine, and number of gameplay improvements. In this episode first impressions of Madden NFL 18 are discussed, going over the changes to gameplay, Franchise, Ultimate Team, and of course the highly-anticipated Longshot. There's some agreement on where Madden stands with this edition but also places where opinions diverge. For more on Madden NFL 18 the full panel review roundtable show will go out next week! On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit The Pass (@pastapadre) Chris “MillsGamingTV,” Operation Sports (@MillsGamingTV)
From cancellations to poorly received releases, the once proud NBA Live franchise has seen its reputation dissipate entirely at the same time its competition rose to prominence. The upcoming NBA Live 18 however appears ready to reestablish some credibility and strategies ranging from a free demo to a pre-order discount are making it a safer purchase for those open to giving it another chance. In this episode of the Press Row Podcast impressions from the just released demo are discussed as well as the impact that could come from the price discount. Additional topics include news on additions and improvements for Franchise mode in Madden NFL 18 and a delay to Super Mega Baseball 2. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit The Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Chris “MillsGamingTV,” Operation Sports (@MillsGamingTV)
In recent years video game publishers have made dramatic shifts in how they promote their upcoming products. Whether it's holding back information longer or who it is that gets early access to spread information and media, the marketing landscape has changed as fewer games are released and they become more reliant on generating year-round digital revenue. In this episode of the Press Row Podcast we discuss why marketing tactics are evolving and whether any consumer concerns are justified. Madden NFL 18 is currently in the hot seat with some fans for still not having shown off any gameplay despite it being under two weeks now until it goes out through the EA Access trial. Other topics include NBA Playgrounds offering $10 DLC to unlock the entire roster, NBA 2K18 on Switch releasing digital only at first, and NBA Live 18 announcing a demo but still lacking an actual release date or the ability to pre-order. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit The Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
If it didn't already feel like sports the gaming season is just about upon us it certainly does now. Online betas for two of the upcoming games are currently active and two other highly-anticipated games have revealed details on a number of significant features and improvements. In this episode of the Press Row Podcast the panel discusses impressions of the NHL 18 and PES 2018 betas, detailed info on improvements for the two franchise modes in NBA 2K18, and various community requests that have been tackled for Madden NFL 18. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit The Pass (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Kris Jardine, SnaggleJ (@SnaggleJ) Chris "MillsGamingTV," Operation Sports (@MillsGamingTV)
This last Tuesday marked what would have been the release of NCAA Football 18 had the series not been cancelled in 2013. There also hasn't been a college basketball game since 2009. How did we get to where we are now that college sports is barely represented in gaming? What is the potential for college sports to make any sort of comeback in the future? From the lawsuits that began eight years ago to why no developer would take on such a project right now given the circumstances, alternative development ideas, favorite memories of the games, and why there is still so much passion and emotion over the subject is discussed on this episode of the Press Row Podcast. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Hit the Pass/Sporting News (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Chris "MillsGamingTV," Operation Sports (@MillsGamingTV)
This episode of the Press Row Podcast looks back at the games that released and biggest stories to have developed through the mid-point of the year. MLB The Show 17, NBA Playgrounds, The Golf Club 2, ARMS, Rocket League and more are reassessed and news on eSports, digital subscription services, story modes, and new consoles are revisited. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Hit the Pass/Sporting News (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Nearly three years have passed since HB Studios debuted The Golf Club and now its sequel has just released. This episode of the Press Row Podcast examines The Golf Club 2 with discussion on its ultra-realistic gameplay, improvements to accessibility, new features, and unfortunate server problems. Other topics covered during the show include patch restrictions on the Nintendo Switch discovered through NBA Playgrounds' struggles to get an update out that could threaten post-release support on the system, and whether selling special editions of games that release several days before the standard editions is an incentive to buy the former or a punishment for spending less on the latter. On the show this week: Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Hit the Pass/Sporting News (@pastapadre) Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham) Kris Jardine, SnaggleJ (@SnaggleJ)
Kat and Nadia share some more thoughts on Persona 5's import version, discuss the Wasteland 3 announcement, and revisit the merits of Dragon Quest on mobile. Then, at 31:15, Bryan Wiedey of pastapadre.com joins the pod to talk about the advent of story modes in sports sims and why they are putting a greater emphasis on roleplaying than ever.
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