Podcasts about video gaming

The esports industry has heavily evolved over the past few years, and big moves continue to occur – especially out of Saudi Arabia.In this episode, host Aaron Bush is joined by Mike McCabe, COO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, which runs a massive Riyadh-based annual esports festival. It's gearing up for its second annual event in July, which will host 25 tournaments over 7 weeks with a whopping $70 million prize pool.We chat about the global state of esports, Saudi Arabia's continued ambitions, and where the industry is headed next. We also dig into the Esports World Cup, including its massive scale, logistics, non-profit ambitions, and how it aspires to leave an evergrowing impact on bringing esports mainstream in the future.We'd like to thank Heroic Labs for making this episode possible! Thousands of studios have trusted Heroic Labs to help them focus on their games and not worry about gametech or scaling for success. To learn more and reach out, visit https://heroiclabs.com/?utm_source=Naavik&utm_medium=CPC&utm_campaign=Podcast We'd also like to thank TikTok for making this episode possible. Whether you're launching or scaling, TikTok supports full-funnel growth with creative impact, always-on engagement, and advanced measurement. Learn more at https://bit.ly/tiktokmorelevelsIf you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co.Who's On:Guest - Mike McCabe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-mccabe-600532/ Host - Aaron Bush: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-bush-846b8185/ Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

What a busy week in gaming! For the first time since 2020, we have a launch of a major new console in the Switch 2. We start the show by recapping our experiences with the launch, and discussing the flagship launch game Mario Kart World. However the news didn't stop with a new console launch, as all the big players made headlines this week in the tradition of early June, even without a large trade show. We recap all the announcements with all of our live participants on another episode of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Sony State of Play * Summer Game Fest * Xbox Showcase * Other Indie Announcements   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

Apple's forced policy shift following the outcome of its legal battle with Epic Games has opened the door for more flexible Direct to Consumer (DTC) strategies, and game studios are taking notice. Host Devin Becker welcomes Chris Faught, CEO of Neon, to break down what this decision means for developers. Chris clarifies the broader implications of the ruling, the mechanics of implementing DTC models, and how this update impacts developers operating across different genres and regions.The conversation explores how studios should be thinking about DTC integration internally, what practical steps to take next, and how these changes might alter monetization strategies moving forward. Chris also offers insight into how webshops can be used to their full potential, what teams are best suited to act quickly, and where the market is headed over the next 12–24 months. Whether you're already experimenting with DTC or still figuring out how this ruling affects your business, this episode offers a grounded look at what's changing and what to do about it.We'd like to thank Overwolf for making this episode possible! Whether you're a gamer, creator, or game studio, Overwolf is the ultimate destination for integrating UGC in games! You can check out all Overwolf has to offer at https://www.overwolf.com/.We'd also like to thank Lightspeed Venture Partners for making this episode possible! With its dedicated gaming & interactive media practice, the firm invests from an over $6.5 billion pool of early and growth-stage capital. If you're interested in learning more, go to https://gaming.lsvp.com/.If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co.Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

The Nintendo Switch 2 finally arrives after years of rumors and rumblings. With such an anticipated system, it's no surprise that people are trying to get a sneak peek. Some early console arrivals have led to startup and menu sneak peeks, but not much more beyond that due to a necessary firmware patch on launch day. Summer Game Fest is also on the horizon this week, with gaming news sure to intensify throughout the week. All this and much more news make up another episode of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio! (Recorded June 1st. Date stamped 6/2 due to incorrectly posted audio previously)   Also in the News: * Pokémon Legends Z-A Release Date * Dragon Quest 1-2 HD Confirmed for Switch 2 * Layoffs at Playtonic * Warning about Magnets and Game Key Cards   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio!   LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com   Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

Director Ryan Huh has a fantastic new short documentary for you to explore. Starting Over is the story of four young men engaged in recovery from digital addiction. It is set in the ReSTART Life residential program and can serve as a great conversation starter for families looking to have a good talk about tech. On this episode, Ryan told me what he learned along the way while creating Starting Over. Spoiler: It's got nothing to do with tech and everything to do with empathy. Listen now!!  

In this episode, we chat with the team behind Sweet and Power Sauce (SAPS), a six-person studio born from the joy of game jams and a shared love of traditional art. We'll dive into their upcoming title Whiskers, Wizards, and Wands, a hand-drawn, marker-and-ink adventure where a reluctant feline wizard crafts spells to untangle a chaotic world: merging classic art with modern gameplay in a vibrant isometric space.Learn more abour Sweet and Power Sauce (SAPS)Learn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Microsoft surprised Game Pass subscribers this week with the addition of Xbox Retro Classics, via a partnership with Antstream. What are the pros and cons of this cloud based streaming solution to playing a large catalog of Activison classic games? We discuss this and more, including the surprising news of the sudden announcement of the end of Sony's PlayStation Stars program-- don't forget to check and see if you can redeem points!   Also in the News:   * AI Darth Vader Legal Trouble * Nintendo to Return to Gamescom * Mario Kart World Started as a Switch 1 Game * Switch 2 Games and Mouse Support   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

Africa's gaming market is young, fast-growing, and mobile-first. In this episode, host Alexandra Takei, Director at Ruckus Games, is joined by Cordel Robbin-Coker, CEO of Carry1st, and Temi Afolabi, a lead on XBOX's Global Expansion team, to examine the opportunity and hurdles of scaling games in Africa. They break down Africa's demographics, monetization challenges, and infrastructure gaps. Cordel highlights Carry1st's approach — aggregating payments across nearly 80+ payment methods and pairing African talent with global veterans. Temi emphasizes Africa's creative potential in narrative design, a rising indie class, and shares why XBOX sees the African consumer as attractive. The group compares Africa's market trajectory to China's, though key differences include Africa's fragmentation across language, infrastructure, and regulation. On the development side, they explore co-dev, creator-first pathways, and the long-term role governments may play in accelerating industry growth to build a billion-person market and capitalize on untapped potential and a growing talent base. We'd like to thank Neon – a merchant of record with customizable webshops optimized for conversion – for making this episode possible! Neon is trusted by some of the biggest names in gaming and can help you sell direct without the typical overhead. To learn more, visit https://www.neonpay.com/?utm_source=naavik We'd also like to thank Levellr — the Discord community intelligence platform — for making this episode possible. Learn more about unlocking real-time community insights at levellr.com.If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co.Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

In dieser Folge spricht Daniel Korth mit Moritz Henkel, ETF Product Manager bei VanEck Europe. Moritz gibt einen tiefen Einblick in die Arbeit bei VanEck und erklärt, wie Themen-ETFs entstehen, warum sie höhere Risiken bergen als breit gestreute Fonds und welche Bedeutung das Pure-Play-Prinzip für VanEck hat. Außerdem diskutieren sie die Rolle von Dividenden in der Geldanlage, insbesondere bei Wachstumsthemen, und warum Nachhaltigkeit bei VanEck eine zentrale Rolle spielt. Das Gespräch geht auch auf gleichgewichtete Indizes ein, die als Alternative zu den stark von großen US-Tech-Konzernen geprägten Weltindizes dienen können.Anhand konkreter Beispiele wie dem Gaming & eSports ETF, Defense, dem World Equal Weight und dem brandneuen Quantum Computing ETF zeigt Moritz praxisnah, wie VanEck innovative Portfolios konstruiert.Diese Folge bietet fortgeschrittenen Anlegern fundierte Einblicke in die Chancen und Herausforderungen von Themen-ETFs und liefert wertvolle Impulse für eine differenzierte Portfoliogestaltung. Ein hörenswerter Deep Dive für alle, die ihr Wissen über thematische Geldanlage vertiefen wollen.Außerdem gibt Daniel ganz am Ende noch einen tieferen Einblick in sein Themen-ETF-Portfolio, die Performance und was er aus diesem Versuch mitgenommen hat.Weiterführende Links:Mehr über die VanEck-Philosophie erfahrenMehr zum Video Gaming und E-Sports ETFMehr zum VanEck Defence ETFMehr zum "VanEck Morningstar Developed Markets Dividend Leaders UCITS ETF"Mehr zum VanEck Quantum Computing ETFZum Whitepaper "Dividendenaktien als Kernanlage"Mehr zum World Equal Weight ETFZur Podcast-Folge bei "Der Finanzwesir rockt"Zum Artikel auf ExtraETFPräsentiert von NordVPNDiese Folge wird Dir präsentiert von NordVPN. Ich nutze schon seit längerer Zeit NordVPN und bin begeistert von der einfachen Bedienung. Es verschlüsselt deine Verbindung über seine Server und schützt so deine Daten. Wenn Du jetzt Lust bekommen hast, NordVPN auch mal zu testen, dann gehe auf diese Webseite. Als Finanzrocker-Hörer bekommst du einen Rabatt auf den 2-Jahresplan und 4 Bonusmonate obendrauf. Und das Beste: Mit der 30-Tage-Geld-zurück-Garantie kannst du es risikofrei testen!Hier geht es zum speziellen Angebot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, host David Taylor dives into the world of Minecraft's massive creator ecosystem with two of its most influential creators:Raf is the co-founder of Spark Universe, a studio behind one of the most widely used Minecraft tools, Essential Mod, which connects millions of players through a live services platform. With over 50 million downloads and nearly 2 million monthly active users, Spark Universe is one of the largest Minecraft creative studios. Spark Universe also led the development of all official in-game content tied to the Minecraft Movie, including a DLC, Add-On, and a live event.Zed is the Director of CubeCraft Games, one of the most popular Minecraft multiplayer servers in the world. Since launching in 2012 and becoming a Minecraft Partner in 2017, CubeCraft has reached over 100 million players. Known for its fast-paced minigames and long-form experiences like Skyblock, CubeCraft continues to be a staple in the Minecraft multiplayer community.We'd also like to thank Reforged Labs for making this episode possible. This YC startup automates the traditionally costly and time-consuming ad production process, delivering high-quality, cost-effective video ads in under 24 hours – and it's all powered by a proprietary AI engine trained on thousands of successful game ads. Learn more: https://reforgedlabs.com/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=naavik_promo&utm_id=naavik+promo&utm_term=newsletter&utm_content=october30 We'd also like to thank Heroic Labs for making this episode possible! Thousands of studios have trusted Heroic Labs to help them focus on their games and not worry about gametech or scaling for success. To learn more and reach out, visit https://heroiclabs.com/?utm_source=Naavik&utm_medium=CPC&utm_campaign=Podcast If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co.Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

Fortnite Battle Royale this week introduced a Darth Vader character powered by Gemini AI, allowing lines to be generated in real time that would be said in the likeness of James Earl Jones. Naturally, the internet managed to put this to some horrible use within minutes, which has us questioning why a game like this needed something like this in the first place? Has Epic Games just handed SAG-AFTRA what they need in their STILL ongoing negotiations for AI protections? Is this really what gamers want in the future of games, or what people in boardrooms think we want? We debate this, and discuss much more in gaming news on another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Bungie Accused of Plagiarizing ... Again * Kojima and the Game Where You Forget * Switch 2 Free Upgrades * Kingdom Hearts Spinoff Canceled   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

This week, Zak and Aaron take a moment to celebrate the runaway critical and commercial success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33... and then dig into why it won't matter at all to big publishers and the money-making machine behind them. Tragically, the narrative that breakout hits in the singleplayer space can somehow make them appealing to investors again is misguided, and Clair Obscur is just the most recent example. This is why we can't have nice things.Please, enjoy.Watch: The games industry is screwed - Alanah PearceRead: The State of Video Gaming in 2025 - Matthew BallListen to Beach Girl on SpotifyCheck out MosscatMarket on EtsyCheck out even more MosscatMarket on Instagram

Nintendo has a reputation as a bit of a litigious company, and it's probably no surprise that they will continue to go lengths to combat piracy. This could potentially include in the future the "bricking" of Nintendo Switch systems, if the recent user agreement is any indication. What would happen if there was a false positive though? Could this even be possible? We discuss this and much more news, including that from PAX East, on another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Xbox Branded Handheld Specs Leak * Final Fantasy meets Magic the Gathering * Overwatch Development Team Unionizes * Ecco The Dolphin to Come Back   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

With over 30 years in the video game industry and as the creator of GameTruck, Scott Novis has entertained more than 14 million gamers. He's on a mission to help families build connections through play.  On this episode, find out how to end games without a fight, bond with your kids in new ways, and have a great time doing it all! Listen now!  

In this episode, podcast David Taylor is joined by Alexander Hicks, the co-founder of Twin Atlas, one of the most innovative studios in the Roblox ecosystem. Twin Atlas is the team behind blockbuster experiences like Creatures of Sonaria, which ranks among the top 30 Roblox games in terms of revenue and engagement according to CreatorExchange.io.At the time of this recording, Twin Atlas experiences are drawing 50,000+ concurrent players, with recent peaks nearing 100,000 CCU. They've also built three experiences that have surpassed 1 billion plays—a rare feat on the platform.What sets Twin Atlas apart is their ability to consistently launch original hits, in contrast to the growing trend of game acquisitions among top Roblox developers. From his early work with Red Manta to the strategic merger that formed Twin Atlas, Alex shares valuable insights into:Building high-performing games from scratchNavigating the evolution of the Roblox platformPushing the boundaries of animation, gameplay, and live opsThe creative process behind long-term engagementIf you're curious about how top-tier Roblox games are made—and what it takes to build a sustainable studio in the UGC ecosystem—this episode is a must-listen.We'd also like to thank Overwolf for making this episode possible! Whether you're a gamer, creator, or game studio, Overwolf is the ultimate destination for integrating UGC in games! You can check out all Overwolf has to offer at https://www.overwolf.com/.We'd also like to thank nSure.ai for making this episode possible! As a proven industry leader, nSure.ai provides scalable payment fraud prevention that's not just effective but tailored specifically to your needs. To learn more, visit https://www.nsure.ai/contactIf you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co. Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

The Motos and Friends Podcast is brought to you by Arai helmets. The founder of Arai Helmets was the man who created the first motorcycle helmet in Japan to protect his own head, and as a result, launched the Japanese motorcycle helmet industry. Arai focuses on glancing off performance, accumulating small differences decade after decade, to further rider protection. The Arai Difference: If your experience has been that “Arai helmets are hard to get on,” then the Contour-X, designed with a wider bottom opening than previous models for easier on/off, is the helmet you've been waiting for. Once inside, you will be amazed at the extreme comfort, a key benefit of the Contour-X for long-distance touring, and if you're into ADV or dual-sport riding, then you'll want to check out the new Arai XD-5. So try on an Arai at your local dealer. You will be instantly amazed at the fit and all-day comfort of any Arai helmet. You should also check out AraiAmericas.com to learn more. *  *  *  *  * This week's two segments both bring you something a little different… In our first segment, Don Williams and Kelly Callan chat about Beta Alp X 350. This modest displacement single cylinder four-stroke from the Italian factory is described as an “Urban Adventure” bike. With styling that would fit well in a Mad Max movie, the rugged looking machine exudes fun and cool in equal measure. Don and Kelly discuss whether the Alp X lives up to its charisma.     *  *  *  *  * Today's Snippet brings you the newly launched X5 camera from Insta360, a leader in 360-degree action camera technology. Adam Singer from Insta360 tells us all about the incredible new X5 that shoots in ALL directions at once, and in 8K30 mega hi-resolution. You can create epic motorcycling shots without even having to aim the camera. Literally, just hit record… focus on your ride… and then in the easy and smooth edit find the best angles using Insta360's mobile app. Its amazing AI tools make it super quick. The X5 is every camera you'll ever need in one, so for instance, you can try an immersive POV that includes your handlebars; or try unique, third-person shots of you and your bike. From morning to night, X5's huge new sensors, triple AI chip, and dedicated low-light shooting mode, deliver never seen before detail and image quality. It's waterproof, reliable, and has inexpensive, completely replaceable, lenses. To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your Insta360 X5 purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code "ULTIMATE", available for the first 30 purchases only. For more information, visit Insta360.com.     *  *  *  *  * Our guest this episode is again, something different. I doubt you have ever heard of IR Kinetics. The company uses a proprietary infra-red technology that tracks objects to within centimeters of their locations—in real time. For motorcycle enthusiasts, this has massive implications. One example they're currently working on is where video gaming and MotoGP could intersect. The company could create a hybrid experience where you could ‘virtually' race against the other riders on track. Imagine if you could line up on the grid next to Marc and Pecco, and see if you could compete? This is just one of many ideas from IR Kinetics. Teejay Adams chats with Gill Switalski (CEO of IR Kinetics), and Steffi Laier, the 3-time World Champion motocross racer in 2009, 2010, and 2011. They enthusiastically explain the technology and how it's about to change our motorcycling world. It's a cliché, but it could literally be a game-changer. Check out this video on IRK *  *  *  *  *    Here's a quick reminder to leave us your comments on our social media—we're on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there's something you'd like us to cover, we'd love to hear those ideas too!   @ultimatemotorcycling  @UltimateMotoMag  @UltimateMotorcycling  producer@ultimatemotorcycling.com

In the 2010s, the video game industry saw an ENORMOUS boom, with annual revenues jumping from 80 billion dollars to TWO HUNDRED billion over that decade, according to a report by investment research group Epyllion. But in recent years, that exponential growth hit a plateau. “Games were so successful both prior to & during 2020 & 2021, that they set kind of impossible standards for 2023 & 2024… And when the uptick flattened, it was seen as a tremendous failure.” That’s video game writer and creator Alanah Pearce from her recent video titled, “The games industry is screwed.” While the industry remains profitable, volatility has shaken investors and large game studios – and created major instability for workers. Last week, EA, which has a local footprint in Kirkland, announced a new round of layoffs – affecting hundreds of employees including workers at Respawn, the studio behind games like Apex Legends and the Star Wars: Jedi series. Things are changing for consumers, too: Microsoft recently announced that it’s raising prices across the entire XBOX platform, … hot on the heels of Nintendo announcing price hikes for its Switch 2 games. The gaming industry appears to be at a crossroads. GUEST: Jason Schreier, author & reporter at Bloomberg RELATED LINKS: The games industry is screwed. Electronic Arts Lays Off Hundreds, Cancels ‘Titanfall’ Game - Bloomberg Apex Legends and Star Wars: Jedi Dev Respawn Cancels Another Incubation Project, Around 100 Employees Impacted - IGN Players Have Too Many Options to Spend $80 on a Video Game - Bloomberg PRESENTATION: The State of Video Gaming in 2025 Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Well, we all knew it was coming, but Microsoft has raised the prices of their consoles, likely in response to the tariff situation in the US. However, they also announced a game price increase to $80, matching Nintendo's recent Mario Kart World price announcement. Is an $80 price tag the new norm? You know LOKI has something to say about that. Also, Rob has some things to say on his recent trip to Super Nintendo World at Universal Fan Fest Nights. All this and more on another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Two Large Gaming Websites see Significant Changes * Genki Being Sued by Nintendo * Grand Theft Auto 6 Delayed. Are we shocked? * Layoffs at EA :(   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

In this episode, we're joined by Corina Diaz, a powerhouse digital media strategist with over 15 years of experience driving marketing and community strategy for entertainment brands. From launching standout indie games like A Fold Apart and The Big Con to shaping industry-wide initiatives like the Steam Women's Day Sale, Corina is the go-to expert for turning limited resources into unforgettable campaigns.Learn more abour CorinaLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

In this episode, host Alexandra Takei, Director at Ruckus Games, sits down with Derek Qiu, Head of Overseas Operations at NetEase, to explore the cross-border distribution journey of Once Human, a supernatural survival game from Starry Studio.They discuss the rapid evolution of China's gaming market, how Chinese developers like NetEase are increasing their presence in the West, and how Once Human represents a new wave of globally ambitious titles. Derek shares why the team prioritized a PC-first launch, how they maintained a cosmetic-only monetization strategy despite mobile market pressures, and how the game achieved a top spot in mobile downloads across 166 regions.The conversation also covers the key differences in publishing and LiveOps strategies between East and West, how self-publishing enabled NetEase to stay agile, and why strong internal infrastructure and cross-cultural research were critical to success. They close with insights on how China's strengths in rapid iteration and operational efficiency are reshaping global competition—and why future gaming growth will favor studios that focus on vertical audiences rather than mass-market appeal.For anyone curious about China's growing global influence in gaming, this is a must-listen.We'd also like to thank Neon – a merchant of record with customizable webshops optimized for conversion – for making this episode possible! Neon is trusted by some of the biggest names in gaming and can help you sell direct without the typical overhead. To learn more, visit https://www.neonpay.com/?utm_source=naavik If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co. Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders finally hit the US this week, and we share stories of successes, and things we think could have been done better in the process. It's the first time since 2020 a new console has been available, so it's an exciting week for gamers everywhere. All this and much more gaming news make up another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio! Also in the News: * Retro Handheld Stopping US Shipments due to Tariffs * Elder Scrolls 4 Remaster, Yes with Horse Armor * Sonic x Shadow Generations on Switch 2 * Outrun Movie? All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

Our guest today, has led teams overseeing some of the biggest commercial successes from the MMORPG genre, and has leveraged those experiences to support dozens more through publishing roles for Xbox Game Studios Publishing and ArenaNet. In this conversation, David Taylor sat down with Crystin Cox, Head of Publishing at ArenaNet and a 20-yr veteran of the video game industry, to discuss her experiences leading live-ops on Maple Story, monetization on Guild Wars 2, and publishing at Xbox Game Studios Publishing and now ArenaNet.They explore how the landscape has evolved over time and what the future holds during this tumultuous time in the video game industry.We'd also like to thank TikTok for making this episode possible. In a dynamic gaming market where a majority of games fail within three years, TikTok has become a critical partner in helping games achieve long-term player retention and substantial revenue growth. Learn more: https://bit.ly/LiveOpsProgramNAVPodcast We'd also like to thank Heroic Labs for making this episode possible! Thousands of studios have trusted Heroic Labs to help them focus on their games and not worry about gametech or scaling for success. To learn more and reach out, visit https://heroiclabs.com/?utm_source=Naavik&utm_medium=CPC&utm_campaign=Podcast If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co. Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

The Elder Scrolls: Oblivion Remake in Unreal 5 is all but confirmed this week as we see screenshots leak to the internet. One clever social media user also tricked a customer service bot (likely powered by AI) to confirm the release. Sounds like AI is still making lots of mistakes like not following NDAs, oops! Sometimes a rumor has so much smoke there is certainly fire, so we look to this remake and how likely we are to pick it up. All this news and much more make up another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Switch 2 Preorder Process for US Finalized * Mario Kart World Direct * Xbox Stream your own Game * PlayStation Plus Price Hike in some Countries   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

Confusion over the Switch 2 Launch Continues this week, as Nintendo has halted pre-orders for not just the US, but Canada as well, as an unstable tariff situation makes it near impossible to predict what Nintendo might do to the launch of their console. Also, news about DLC's non inclusion with the Switch 2 re release of Breath of the Wild has heated opinions on just how much this eight year old game is really worth. Would the Elder Scrolls Skyrim be able to charge this same price? We debate this and much more with our live audience on another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Switch 2 to not have Achievements * Death Stranding 2 to Allow Boss Skips * Tequila Works Game Rights on Auction * Ubisoft in Lawsuit Claims you Agreed to Not Own Games   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

In this episode, host Devin Becker welcomes fellow Naavik host and consultant David Taylor to discuss insights from Naavik's recent State of UGC Gaming deep dive and beyond. We discuss how leading UGC platforms are evolving and where they face the most promise and challenges, from Roblox's growing ad and brand integrations to Fortnite's challenge of escaping its battle royale roots. We also explore emerging contenders like mods, Highrise, speculate on how GTA VI might impact the UGC landscape, and consider whether we're due for a new wave of platforms altogether. Lastly, David reflects on how AI could shape the future of creation and how developers might adapt as the UGC ecosystem continues to expand.We'd like to thank TikTok for making this episode possible. In a dynamic gaming market where a majority of games fail within three years, TikTok has become a critical partner in helping games achieve long-term player retention and substantial revenue growth. Learn more: https://bit.ly/LiveOpsProgramNAVPodcast We'd also like to thank Overwolf for making this episode possible! Whether you're a gamer, creator, or game studio, Overwolf is the ultimate destination for integrating UGC in games! You can check out all Overwolf has to offer at https://www.overwolf.com/.If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co. Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

Nintendo Switch 2 has everyone talking this week. From the price of the console, to the $80 price tag for Mario Kart World, the news has taken the gaming industry by storm. An ever changing tariff situation in the US threatens to disrupt the launch of the console, as it has already disrupted the planned pre-order date. We take a critical eye to the news and some of the other reporting going on out there, and try to speculate (in the absence of official Nintendo comment no matter what reddit says) on why $80 is the new gaming price tag normal. Will the market accept that? We discuss this and much more in the gaming industry on another week of the longest running weekly video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * inZoi Sales Successes * Minecraft Movie Review & Online Leaks * Layoffs at Eidos and Playside * NeoGeo Evercade   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

In this episode, host, Alexandra Takei, Director at Ruckus Games, dives into the intersection of brand marketing, live streaming, and culturally relevant branded experiences. Joined by Wiktoria Wójcik, co-founder of InStreamly, the conversation explores how brands can integrate into live streaming platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Kick. InStreamly connects brands with thousands of streamers, facilitating authentic collaborations through technology that allows for large-scale, interactive campaigns. Wójcik shares insights on bridging the gap between brand safety and engaging streamers, as well as the power of parasocial relationships in gaming. They discuss case studies with big brands like Cheetos and Danone, showcasing how live streaming is reshaping marketing strategies, from contextual gameplay to driving brand affinity. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving world of influencer marketing or those interested in partnering with a contextual marketing agency in the United States. We'd like to thank Lightspeed Venture Partners for making this episode possible! With its dedicated gaming practice, "Lightspeed Gaming," the firm is investing from over $7B in early- and growth-stage capital — the by far largest fund focused on gaming and interactive technology. If you're interested in learning more, go to https://gaming.lsvp.com/.We'd also like to thank nSure.ai! As a proven industry leader, nSure.ai provides scalable payment fraud prevention that's not just effective but tailored specifically to your needs. To learn more, visit https://www.nsure.ai/contactIf you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co. Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

Next week we will finally be able to put Switch 2 launch rumors to rest as Nintendo is set to unveil the Switch 2 in detail with a special direct on April 2nd. Until then, we get an idea what the original Nintendo Switch has in store, with a surprise Nintendo Direct that took place this week. From Rhythm Heaven to a Tomodachi Life Revival, the original switch had a lot in store to show us this week. All this and much more outside of Nintendo make up the news on another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Zelda Movie Release DAte * Ubisoft New Unit * Game Informer Returning * Goat Direct on April Fools   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

In this episode, host Sam Distaso dives into the cutting edge of VR game development with Devin Reimer (founder and CEO of Astrobeam) and Ed Saxton (CPO of Schell Games). From the early startup days of VR to the evolution of mixed reality, Devin and Ed share how their studios use first-principles thinking to craft unique experiences. We explore how hit games like Job Simulator and Among Us VR came to life and how these teams operate in a young, constantly evolving market.We also unpack big questions facing the VR space: Will the use of generative AI lead to more fun? What will improvements to voice and hand tracking unlock? What actually goes into making smart NPCs work? Will smell-o-vision ever work? If you're curious about the future of immersive games, this one's packed with stories, laughs, and insights from two of the industry's most thoughtful builders.We'd also like to thank Neon – a merchant of record with customizable webshops optimized for conversion – for making this episode possible! Neon is trusted by some of the biggest names in gaming and can help you sell direct without the typical overhead. To learn more, visit https://www.neonpay.com/?utm_source=naavik If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co.Who's On:Guest - Devin Reimer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devinreimer/ Guest - Ed Saxton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edsaxton/ Host - Sam Distaso: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samdistaso/ Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

Game Developers Conference was this last week, allowing the makers of games to get together and network and share ideas for the future of the industry. It is no surprise that timed with this week was the announcement of an industry wide union for game developers. It has been a difficult year for those in the industry, and we talk about the potential implications of this move on the industry and what it could mean. There's this and much more news on another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Lego Pokemon * More Games to GoG Preservation * Balatro at Game Developers Choice Awards * Minecraft Live Recap   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

For the first time in Naavik's history, we're excited to bring a live audience show experience to air! At GDC, host, Alexandra Takei, Director at Ruckus Games, sat down with Nick Popovich, CEO and Founder of Monomi Park, in San Francisco for a conversation centered around “doing it all yourself” in the indie games market — no external funding, crowd financing, or publishing support. In 2014, Nick and his co-founder decided to start a studio and launch Slime Rancher in 2016. They sold 10M units over the following decade, grew from 2 to 45 people, launched a second game into early access, and have begun working on an entirely new IP. Today's conversation explores how Monomi Park thinks about studio culture, growth, crunch, and innovation — plus how to get players to notice your game, buy it, and play it repeatedly. This episode also includes our first ever live audience Q&A and is a must-listen for any founder looking to make it independently. We'd also like to thank AWS for Games for making this episode possible. AWS for Games aligns purpose-built game development capabilities — including AWS services like Amazon GameLift as well as solutions from AWS Partners — to help game developers build, run, and grow their games. For more information, visit https://aws.amazon.com/gametech/If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co. Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

In this episode, host Niko Vuori interviews Justin Stolzenberg, co-founder of Metica, a startup aiming to revolutionize gaming analytics through AI-driven insights and personalized experiences. Founded by ex-King and ex-Apple employees, Metica's approach is a unique combination of King's iterative, hyper-data-driven approach and Apple's high-polish culture. The company recently announced their $9 million seed round. The episode covers the challenges of launching in the saturated analytics market and how Metica differentiates itself by focusing on actionable insights rather than just data collection. The conversation also explores the role of AI and machine learning in gaming, the importance of personalization, and the future aspirations of Metica in the gaming industry.We'd also like to thank Heroic Labs for making this episode possible! Thousands of studios have trusted Heroic Labs to help them focus on their games and not worry about gametech or scaling for success. To learn more and reach out, visit https://heroiclabs.com/?utm_source=Naavik&utm_medium=CPC&utm_campaign=Podcast If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co. Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

Niantic Games were sold off to Scopely, a mobile phone gaming company that some would say takes microtransactions a bit too far in mobile games. Is Pokémon GO doomed? And what about the properties that WEREN'T sold, is there a reason for all of this? We jump in to talk about what not everyone on the gaming blogs is talking about with this huge gaming sale. All this and much more make up another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Xbox Branded PC Handheld Rumors Intensify * Silent Hill f Detailed * Controversial Sony AI Aloy Video * Elder Scrolls Oblivion Remake Rumors   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

We are back after a pre-planned vacation to tackle the week in gaming news. Of course, we have some news to catch up on as well, including the sunsetting of some loyalty programs with the Nintendo Switch. Could this all be for a new loyalty program with Switch 2? Well, maybe we shouldn't set the bar too high. All this and much more gaming news from this week make up the return of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * PS5s to be Rentable in One Part of the World * Super Soccer to Leave Nintendo Switch Online * Acclaim Returns, but Set Reasonable Expectations * Less Discs in Gaming due to Tariffs?   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

In this episode, our host, Alexandra Takei, Director at Ruckus Games, sits down with Kyu Lee, Chief Business Development Officer at Com2Us, Partner at CRIT Ventures, and ex-president of Com2Us USA. They explore Com2Us Holdings' evolution from its early days as Gamevil to becoming a global mobile powerhouse with hits like Summoners War, one of the industry's biggest mobile IPs that has generated over $3B+ in revenue.Kyu shares insights on the company's pivotal shifts, including its focus on mobile gaming, the transition to live operations, its approach to licensing Western IP like Major League Baseball, and his story about what it is like to be at the helm of a major geographic expansion. The conversation also touches on Com2Us's strategic investments in blockchain and its venture arm, CRIT Ventures. Kyu discusses how gaming in South Korea is evolving, the growing influence of IP across global markets, what is currently being undervalued, and what Com2Us must execute in 2025.We'd also like to thank Overwolf for making this episode possible! Whether you're a gamer, creator, or game studio, Overwolf is the ultimate destination for integrating UGC in games! You can check out all Overwolf has to offer at https://www.overwolf.com/.If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co. Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

In this episode, host Niko Vuori speaks with Jeff Zirlin, co-founder of Sky Mavis and the play-to-earn OG, Axie Infinity, about the significant developments in the web3 gaming space, particularly the transition of the Ronin blockchain to a permissionless model.They discuss Jeff's background and journey into web3, the origin story and wild ride of Axie Infinity, the evolution of the Ronin blockchain, the introduction of the Ronin Developer Console, and the impressive growth metrics of the Ronin ecosystem. The conversation touches on the current state of the Axie Infinity economy and the future of third-party gaming projects on the Ronin chain. We also explore the balance between quality and openness in game development, the incentives for developers, and the potential for future growth as more games launch on the Ronin network.We'd also like to thank TikTok for making this episode possible. In a dynamic gaming market where a majority of games fail within three years, TikTok has become a critical partner in helping games achieve long-term player retention and substantial revenue growth. Learn more: https://bit.ly/LiveOpsProgramNAVPodcast If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co. Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

Over the years, Spatial has undergone a wide-ranging evolution. It evolved from an AR collaboration platform to a Roblox competitor (with 2M+ creators), and it's now a VR game developer with the top earning VR game on the Meta Quest store (Animal Company). Spatial has raised almost $50M, according to Crunchbase, based on the founders' convictions that 3D virtual spaces are the future of social experiences. In this conversation, our host, David Taylor, sat down with Anand Agarawala, the Founder and CEO of Spatial, to unpack the lessons learned from the success of Animal Company. We explore how a founder decides when it's time to pivot, the dynamics of competing with Roblox, and what the future holds for VR, UGC, and web-based games.We'd also like to thank nSure.ai for making this episode possible! As a proven industry leader, nSure.ai provides scalable payment fraud prevention that's not just effective but tailored specifically to your needs. To learn more, visit https://www.nsure.ai/contactIf you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co. Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

In this episode, host, Alexandra Takei, Director at Ruckus Games, is joined by Jacob Rapoport (CEO and Co-Founder) and Nico Vereecke from Evil Plan to discuss their groundbreaking project in AI-powered, unscripted fantasy entertainment. The conversation explores the future of interactive storytelling, where community influence and fully AI-driven narratives combine to create an entirely new genre of entertainment. Jacob and Nico express their belief in AI's potential to address the “cost problem” of new IP (i.e., significant upstart capital for uncertain returns) and the “manpower problem” (limited hours available each day) that contributes to content shortages. They explain how their company is developing a platform for dynamic, emergent storytelling. With AI at its core, Evil Plan seeks to transform how stories are created, allowing audience participation to play a crucial role in shaping the outcomes of plots and sub-plots, resulting in both unpredictable drama and interactive experiences. If you're a fan of community-driven entertainment phenomena like Twitch Plays Pokémon, Bandersnatch, Genvid's MILEs, or Blaseball, this is a conversation worth exploring. You can also check out our content coverage on Genvid and Blaseball on our website.We'd also like to thank Lightspeed Venture Partners for making this episode possible! With its dedicated gaming practice, "Lightspeed Gaming," the firm is investing from over $7B in early- and growth-stage capital — the by far largest fund focused on gaming and interactive technology. If you're interested in learning more, go to https://gaming.lsvp.com/.If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co. Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

Sony dropped a surprise State of Play announcement event on us this week, and we take some time to recap everything discussed. We also spend some time on Xbox, and recent comments by Phil Spencer that appears to be shifting away from live service games. Is the bubble finally bursting on this trend in gaming? Or do some companies feel they need to stick with this at all costs? We discuss this and much more in gaming news on another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Programming Note: No new show until March 9th due to vacation.   Also in the News:   * No Diablo 4 Expansion until 2026 * Jeff Minter reboots I, Robot * Ubisoft Latest Revenues * Civilization Seven DLC Potential Data Mine   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

Richards website: www.richardsparks.com.  Blue Sky: @richardsparks.bsky.social The book publisher: www.caezik.com Just Say Yes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpnxBuO6l_s Rowan Atkinson Schoolmaster sketch, The Secret Policeman's Ball: Rowan Atkinson – The School Master

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Join us for a conversation with GC as we dive into the business side of game development! With experience advising studios across the US, Europe, and Asia, GC shares insights on funding, scaling, and building a sustainable studio—without compromising creativity. Whether you're an indie dev or looking to grow, this episode is perfect for you!Learn more about GCLearn more about usJoin the next episode of the Indie Game Lunch Hour LIVE every Wednesday at 12pm EST on our Discord channel to answer your own burning questions and be immortalized in the recordings.

Cloud technology is transforming the way games are developed, hosted, and maintained. In this episode, host Devin Becker is joined by Chris Melissinos, AWS Principal Evangelist for video games, to discuss the growing role of cloud services in game development. Chris highlights how Amazon Web Services (AWS) is empowering developers with tools that reduce production costs, streamline workflows, and enable innovations like off-client AI processing. We also explore how AWS helps address challenges such as scalability, user-generated content moderation, and matchmaking for player-driven experiences.The conversation dives into real-world examples of cloud-driven advancements, and Chris shares insights into how cloud servers can help preserve game history, handle complex computing tasks, and improve collaboration across distributed teams. The discussion also touches on how cloud services support developers facing today's rising production costs and how cloud infrastructure is shaping the future of game development. Whether you're a developer, designer, or producer, this episode offers a practical look at how cloud tech is unlocking new possibilities for the game industry.We'd also like to thank Neon – a merchant of record with customizable webshops optimized for conversion – for making this episode possible! Neon is trusted by some of the biggest names in gaming and can help you sell direct without the typical overhead. To learn more, visit https://www.neonpay.com/?utm_source=naavik If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co.Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

The PlayStation Network unexpectedly went down over the weekend in what ended up being the longest outage since the major multi-week shutdown in the PS3 era. This left a lot of gamers wondering why the network went down for so long, while others wondered what entitlements they might get due to the downtime. While all the answers aren't available yet, we speculate what may have occurred and when or if we will get more facts about the downtime. All this and much more gaming news make up another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Switch 2 Pricing Rumors & Plans for Scalpers * Civilization VII Release Reaction * New Destiny 2 Content Missing Voice Acting Due to Ongoing SAG-AFTRA Strike * Steam to Label Unupdated Early Access Games   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

In this episode, host Alexanda Takei, Director at Ruckus Games, sits down with Spike Laurie, Partner at Hiro Capital, to dissect gaming finance's grim reality in 2025. The conversation starts with a discussion on the industry's downturn, marked by studio closures and a reduction in funding, particularly at the Series A level. Venture capital, once a goldmine for game studios, is now retreating, and if not retreating, shifting many of their investments to infrastructure. The duo discuss hard questions such as founders' frustrations that VCs have set the bar too high for the products they are making, whether investing in infrastructure actually sidesteps content risk (given the clients of ‘picks and shovels' are venture-backed gaming studios), and whether a fund would ever return raised capital back to their LPs given the recent market's low returns. They discuss what options founders have in 2025 and what Hiro may be looking for as they deploy Fund II ($340M USD). They also discuss Snowprint Studios' sale to MTG and how that relates to fund strategy in games. The episode concludes with a look at what the future holds for gaming VC in 2025, with a focus on the importance of backing resilient teams and innovative IP.We'd also like to thank AWS for Games for making this episode possible. AWS for Games aligns purpose-built game development capabilities — including AWS services like Amazon GameLift as well as solutions from AWS Partners — to help game developers build, run, and grow their games. For more information, visit https://aws.amazon.com/gametech/If you like the episode, please help others find us by leaving a 5-star rating or review! And if you have any comments, requests, or feedback shoot us a note at podcast@naavik.co. Watch the episode: YouTube ChannelFor more episodes and details: Podcast WebsiteFree newsletter: Naavik DigestFollow us: Twitter | LinkedIn | WebsiteSound design by Gavin Mc Cabe.

Tonight's show starts with a live listener question on how our current political climate might effect video games. We make predictions best we can on how big releases this year might shift depending on what this political climate holds. Sadly, the gaming industry climate is far too full of layoffs, as major layoffs hit Bioware studios, seemingly leaving the next Mass Effect title as a make or break game for the studio. We discuss all this, more in gaming news, and yes food too on another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Forza Horizon to come to PlayStation * Switch 2 Experience Brings out Scalpers * New Sega Trademarks in Japan * No More PS4 Games for PS Plus (in 2026)   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

Xbox hosted a Developer Direct this week, which showed off a surprise new title in the Ninja Gaiden series, as well as stealth dropping a classic game from the series onto XBOX Game Pass. It's not often we see announcements in January, so this gives us some fun things to talk about. We also discuss the current gaming landscape and how things have shifted away from the console wars of the 90s. At the end of the day, it's all about money. On our show, it's all about the latest gaming news with this and much more on another episode of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Celeste Devs Cancel Next Game * Marvel Snap Apology for Downtime Pack * VGHF Archives to Open * R.I.P. Origin   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

Finally after months of rumors, mockups, and much internet speculation, the Nintendo Switch 2 is finally officially unveiled. While it is a short two minute sneak peek, it's enough to confirm most of the rumors we have heard thusfar. What are our early impressions of what we've seen? And how about that quick peek at a new Mario Kart game? There is still much more to unveil in April, but that doesn't stop the Nintendo chatter from continuing. All this and MUCH more gaming news make up another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * More Live Service Games Cancelled at Sony * Marvel Snap Goes Dark Unexpectedly * EVO 2025 Lineup * Card Trading Coming to Pokémon TCGP   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com

It appears Microsoft may be set to make some big moves in Gaming in 2025, with Halo: The Master Chief Collection rumored to release on the PlayStation 5 and the Nintendo Switch successor. Rumors about a new handheld are intensifying as well. Is it possible that Microsoft could soon partner up with Nintendo on a Game Pass app? Rumors and speculation abounds while news comes out of CES, the Consumer Electronics Show this week. All this and more round out another week of the longest running video game podcast, Orange Lounge Radio!   Also in the News:   * Xbox Rewards Changing on PC * New Guitar Hero Controller ... for the Wii? * Lego Game Boy * Carmen Sandiego Reboot   All this and more on the show where EVERY gamer has a voice-- Orange Lounge Radio! LIVE on the VOG Network, Sunday nights at 6 Pacific, 9 Eastern www.vognetwork.com Mailbag: participate (at) orangeloungeradio dot com