Episoder
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Grand Theft Auto VI Pre-Orders went live this week with the reveal of the game’s higher-than-average price and the news that it will not be coming out on physical discs. Ashley and Ciaran question if this is a turning point for the industry before discussing the Bungie layoffs, Steam Machine pricing and July 2026 Game releases.
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GTA 6 pricing and digital release strategyThe decline of physical game mediaBungie layoffs and studio restructuringUpcoming game releases in July 2026YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
RESOURCESGrand Theft Auto 6's Physical Editions Won't Include A DiscRockstar Games Has No Plans for GTA 6 Physical Disc Version, Says Report Here's The Aussie Grand Theft Auto 6 PricesGrand Theft Auto 6 Is A Single Player Experience With No Online Multiplayer Bungie Has Been Hit By Significant Layoffs From The Destiny And Marathon TeamsXbox Series X|S Consoles Just Got Another Massive Price IncreaseWhat Video Games Are Coming Out in July 2026? - Explosion Network CREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We discuss Xbox reportedly closing several of its studios, and what it did wrong to get to this point.
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Xbox's recent studio closures reflect a troubling trend in the gaming industry.Xbox's acquisition strategy has led to significant studio instability.GTA VI's cover reveal demonstrates the game's cultural significance.The gaming community is often left disappointed by corporate decisions.Double Fine's potential closure raises questions about creative freedom in gaming.Subscription models may not be sustainable for game development.The Adventures of Elliot offers a unique gameplay experience but has flaws.Voice acting quality can significantly impact player experience.The importance of narrative depth in video games is highlighted.Community engagement is crucial for the future of gaming discussions.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
RESOURCESXbox Is Reportedly About To Shut Down South Of Midnight Studio Compulsion Games Alongside Other StudiosThe Grand Theft Auto 6 Pre-Order Date And Cover Art Have Been RevealedLost Castle 2 Review - Explosion NetworkCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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Manglende episoder?
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We discuss the Xbox Games Showcase and the Nintendo Direct that were part of Summer Game Fest 2026 week.
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Summer Game Fest has replaced E3 as the main gaming showcase.September is packed with game releases, making it a busy month for gamers.The hosts express mixed feelings about the Wolverine game being more linear.Kieran shares excitement for the game Dawn of the Bloodwalker.The gaming community is buzzing with anticipation for upcoming titles.Predictions for game announcements can lead to surprising outcomes.The hosts reflect on their gaming experiences and recent titles they've played.Nintendo Direct revealed several new games and expansions for the Switch.The conversation highlights the importance of game reviews in a crowded market.Kieran wins the predictions game, showcasing his knowledge of upcoming titles. Jiu-Jitsu Kaisen is a unique blend of genres.Nintendo's remastering strategy keeps its classics relevant.Final Fantasy is embracing a new art style with 2D HD.Splatoon is introducing single-player elements to its gameplay.Kingdom Hearts 4 is generating excitement for its release.The Ocarina of Time remake is highly anticipated by fans.The Xbox showcase featured impressive new titles and gameplay.Fable's new mechanics offer deeper player interactions.Halo is expanding its campaign with new missions.Persona 4 Revival aims to attract both new and returning players. The ending of Persona Five has significant changes that impact the narrative.Updates in gaming often signal a winding down of developer support.New trailers for upcoming games generate excitement among fans.Cult-themed games are becoming more popular in multiplayer formats.Ninja Theory's future hinges on the success of Senua's Saga.DLCs can be challenging for players who have forgotten the game mechanics.Generative AI is being used to enhance game development processes.Xbox's anniversary collection showcases nostalgia for long-time fans.Australian game development is gaining recognition with new titles.The pacing of game showcases can affect audience engagement.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
CREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We recap Summer Game Fest and the PlayStation State of Play.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
EPISODE TIMECODES00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:25 - Summer Games Fest Recap
00:58:20 - PlayStation State of Play Recap
01:33:11 - Outro
RESOURCESEverything Announced At Summer Game Fest 2026 - Explosion Network Everything Announced During PlayStation’s Massive June 2026 State Of Play - Explosion NetworkCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We give our annual Summer Game Fest predictions and also give first impressions of 007: First Light.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
CREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We discuss Destiny's future, GTA VI release date, and Ciaran has impressions of Forza Horizon 6.
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Destiny 2 is ending support, marking a significant moment for the franchise.Bungie's future projects may focus on new IPs under PlayStation's ownership.The PlayStation State of Play event is set to showcase major upcoming titles.Forza Horizon 6 offers a rich exploration of Japanese culture and car culture.The hosts express concern over the future of Bungie and its franchises.PlayStation's strategy may shift back to focusing on single-player experiences.The gaming industry is competitive, with many titles vying for player attention.The importance of maintaining player engagement in live service games is emphasised.Forza Horizon 6 is praised for its gameplay and soundtrack.The hosts speculate on potential announcements at the State of Play event. Cirarn lent his Steam Deck to a friend for gaming.Xbox has officially rebranded to all caps based on fan feedback.Matthew Ball joins Xbox to address market challenges.The gaming industry is competing with gambling and social media for attention.GTA 6 is expected to release on November 19, 2026.The hosts speculate on the impact of new leadership at Xbox.There is a growing trend of multiplayer games over single-player experiences.The excitement for single-player games among younger audiences is declining.Cirarn plans to take time off to play GTA 6 upon release.The hosts discuss the potential purchase of a PS5 Pro.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
RESOURCESAfter numerous delays, new GTA 6 pre-order leaks suggest November release date finally locked in, and further delays unlikelyXbox is now XBOX, apparently | Eurogamer.netXbox hires analyst who said games were losing the attention battle with gambling, crypto and porn as chief strategy officer in another leadership revamp | Eurogamer.netA 60+ Minute PlayStation State Of Play Has Been Revealed And Here's All The Aussie TimesBungie Is Ending Support For Destiny 2 To Focus On New ProjectsCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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Join Ashley and Ciaran as they share their initial impressions of Mixtape, Subnautica 2 and Wax Head, as well as Ashley’s thoughts on the video game movie Mortal Kombat II.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
EPISODE TIMECODES00:00:00 - Intro00:01:51 - Mortal Kombat II Movie Impressions00:06:00 - Mixtape Impressions00:18:58 - Subnautica 2 Impressions00:23:11 - Wax Heads Impressions00:25:14 - Cozy Game Restoration Impressions00:30:57 - Goodbye
CREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We discuss the latest gaming news, focusing on the marketing strategy for GTA 6 and its emphasis on console releases over PC. We also delve into the upcoming game 'Stranger Than Heaven,' highlighting its narrative depth, celebrity cameos, and unique gameplay mechanics that involve sound recording and music composition.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
RESOURCESGTA 6 lands PlayStation 5 marketing deal, as Take-Two head implies PC is not Rockstar's "core" audience | Eurogamer.net Xbox Presents: A Special Look at Stranger Than Heaven – Everything We Learned (Including Snoop Dogg’s Role!)Asha Sharma admits "Xbox needs to move faster", as new CEO begins "winding down Copilot on mobile" and ceases its development on consoles | Eurogamer.netStar Fox Has Been Revealed And It's A Star Fox 64 RemakeCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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Dylan shares his impressions of Saros so far and discusses the latest gaming news and upcoming releases for May 2026 with Ashley.
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Saros is a follow-up to Returnal with new gameplay mechanics.The game features a mix of story and exploration.Boss fights in Saros have multiple stages that increase in complexity.The pacing of Saros allows for breaks and upgrades between runs.Comparisons to Returnal highlight differences in difficulty and structure.The Resident Evil movie aims to tell a new story within the franchise.Audience expectations can impact their enjoyment of adaptations.Creative freedom in adaptations can lead to unique storytelling.The film's release is generating positive buzz among fans.Fast production turnaround shows the director's commitment. Blood of Dawnwalker is set to release on September 3rd.The game features a unique hybrid gameplay mechanic.Players can choose to complete the plot or explore romance options.The game is developed by a team with a strong pedigree from CD Projekt Red.The setting of Blood of Dawnwalker is distinct from The Witcher.The hosts express excitement about the upcoming May game releases.There is a competitive landscape with titles like Fable and Grand Theft Auto 6.The gameplay allows for distinct player experiences based on choices.Community engagement is encouraged for feedback on anticipated games.The hosts are cautiously optimistic about the upcoming releases.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
RESOURCESDark fantasy vampire RPG The Blood of Dawnwalker gets a release date and an autumn showdown with Fable | Eurogamer.nethttps://press-start.com.au/news/2026/05/01/the-first-trailer-for-zach-creggers-resident-evil-movie-is-here/Games Coming Out In May 2026 That You Should Be Excited ForCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We discuss the Assassin’s Creed Black Flag remake, Tides of Tomorrow, and Vampire Crawlers.
SHOW DOT POINTSThe remake of Assassin's Creed Black Flag is highly anticipated.Black Flag was a turning point for the Assassin's Creed franchise.Shuhei Yoshida's departure reflects a shift in PlayStation's direction.Xbox Game Pass is undergoing significant changes, including a price drop.Nintendo is adjusting its pricing strategy for digital games.Splatoon Raiders is set to release as a single-player-focused game.The gaming industry is seeing a resurgence of interest in remakes.The future of Xbox exclusives remains uncertain under new leadership.The Elden Ring film is generating excitement among fans.The hosts emphasise the importance of storytelling in games. A24 is investing heavily in the Elden Ring adaptation.The cast for the Elden Ring film is impressive and diverse.Adapting video game lore into film presents unique challenges.Vampire Crawlers offers addictive gameplay reminiscent of its predecessor.Tides of Tomorrow explores interconnected narratives and player choices.The mechanics of Tides of Tomorrow reflect real-world issues.Player decisions in Tides of Tomorrow impact future gameplay experiences.Vampire Crawlers introduces card-based mechanics to dungeon crawling.The hosts express excitement for the upcoming game releases.The conversation highlights the evolving relationship between games and film.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
EPISODE TIMECODES00:00:00 - Intro00:00:36 - Assassin's Creed Black Flag - Resynced00:10:14 - Shuhei Yoshida Says He Was Fired00:15:30 - Xbox Lowers Price of Game Pass Ultimate00:21:35 - Splatoon Raiders Release Date00:24:20 - Elden Ring Movie Begins Shooting00:31:50 - Vampire Crawlers Impressions00:40:50 - Tides Of Tomorrow Review00:49:45 - OutroRESOURCESWe've officially seen "ground-up remake" Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced in action | Eurogamer.net"I want to make the right decision, not the fastest decision" - Xbox's new boss Asha Sharma refuses to rule out the return of exclusive gamesXbox Game Pass Ultimate Just Got A Massive Price Drop And Here's The New Aussie PricingSplatoon Raiders Just Got A Release Date And 3 New Amiibo Are Coming TooElden Ring movie cast announced, with Alien: Romulus, The Last of Us and Ex Machina actors all on board | Eurogamer.netCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We debate whether video game remakes/remasters are killing the industry and holding it back from bigger things.
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Nostalgia can hinder innovation in gaming.Remakes are often more financially viable for publishers.There are still many original games being released.The gaming industry is risk-averse, favouring known properties.Development timelines have become excessively long.Creative direction is crucial for timely game production.Hiring more staff could alleviate development bottlenecks.The gaming community is still young and evolving.Stories in games are often retold, similar to other media.Metro 2039 reflects real-world issues and challenges. Metro Exodus introduces a new protagonist named Artem.The Street Fighter film aims to capture the essence of the game.The trailer for the Street Fighter film received positive feedback.Lana Del Rey will perform the title song for the Bond game.The return of composer David Arnold adds credibility to the Bond game.Wind Rose offers a unique pirate adventure experience.The game allows for both single-player and co-op gameplay.Community reactions to games can vary widely.The importance of character development in video games is emphasized.The hosts reflect on their different methods of discovering new games.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
RESOURCESMetro 2039 Is A Brand New Metro Game Influenced By Russia's Invasion Of UkraineStreet Fighter film gets new trailer full of roundhouses and explosions, plus a spot of mournful karaoke | Eurogamer.net007 First Light title song will be performed by Lana Del Rey, while Bond film composer David Arnold returns to franchise after almost two decades | Eurogamer.netCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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Dylan and Ashley discuss the news surrounding Disney and Epic Games teaming up for a new crossover, in addition to the current Fortnite one.
Plus, Dylan dives into Pokémon Champions, gives his wrap-up thoughts on Resident Evil Requiem, and talks to Ashley about the latest idea from PlayStation—adding scans of real people to their games.
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Dylan expresses frustration over being called the 'Easter Grinch' for missing a podcast.Ashley finds the idea of a Disney IP-based extraction shooter to be bizarre.Dylan recalls the combat mechanics of Disney Infinity as a precedent for how Disney characters fight.The duo discusses the potential revenue impact of Disney's partnership with Epic Games.Dylan criticises Epic Games for laying off employees despite upcoming collaborations with Disney.Ashley highlights the importance of vetting participants in Sony's new player engagement initiative.Dylan questions the motivations behind Sony's player base initiative.Ashley suggests that the initiative could be a way to promote Gran Turismo 7.Dylan and Ashley joke about the absurdity of interview answers for the player base initiative.The conversation reflects on the evolving landscape of gaming and corporate strategies. The film Exit 8 has received critical acclaim, achieving a 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.Resident Evil's gameplay effectively balances action and survival horror elements.The pacing between characters in Resident Evil enhances the overall experience.Pokémon Champions allows for extensive customisation of Pokémon stats and moves.The game introduces a new competitive format for Pokémon battles.Players can bring their Pokémon from previous games into Pokémon Champions.The game features a unique mechanic where players can see their opponent's team before battle.Pokémon Champions aims to be the new standard for competitive Pokémon play.The meta in competitive Pokémon will evolve with new game releases.The launch of Pokémon Champions has faced some technical issues, but it shows promise.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
RESOURCESFortnite's Toy Story Crossover Is Taking Things To Infinity And BeyondA Disney-Themed Extraction Shooter Is Reportedly In DevelopmentPlayStation Fans Can Now Be Scanned Into GamesExit 8 Is Now The Highest Rated Video Game Film Adaptation EverExit 8 Review [MIFF 2025] - Explosion NetworkCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is already proving to be a big success at the box office, but its quality is splitting the internet. Embracer may have 2 prominent studios working on The Lord of the Rings games, and Ciaran shares his impressions of Screamer
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
CONTENT MENTIONEDThe Super Mario Galaxy Movie - Starts Better & Then Ends Worse | Animated Wonders
EPISODE TIMECODES00:00:00 - Intro00:01:41 - The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Makes Money Despite Reviews00:07:59 - Amazon want Mass Effect TV Series rewritten to appeal to non- gamers00:12:39 - Embracer May Have 2 Lord of the Rings games in the works00:25:12 - 2025 Xbox Games Showcase Date Has Been Locked In00:33:39 - Xbox FanFest Is Coming to Sydney in 202600:36:44 - Peak Devs Say 'Any Update Is a Bonus, Not a Right.'00:40:19 - Mass Layoffs at Eidos Montreal After Game Cancellation00:44:36 - Ciaran’s Screamer Impressions00:50:45 - outro
RESOURCESThe Super Mario Galaxy Movie breaks records with $34m opening despite "unfavourable" reviewsMass Effect TV show ordered to rewrite scripts and make them "more appealing to non-gamers"Kingdom Come: Deliverance Devs Working on LOTR Game, It's Claimed Following rumours of Warhorse Studios visiting Middle-earth, Tomb Raider developer EXCLUSIVE: Veteran Studio Working On New Lord of the Rings Game The 2026 Xbox Games Showcase Has Been Dated Alongside A Direct For Gears Of War: E-Day Xbox FanFest is coming to Australia later in 2026 | ScreenHub: Film, TV, Streaming and GamesPeak devs remind players that 'any update is a bonus not a right'Eidos Montreal To Lay Off 124 EmployeesEXCLUSIVE: Eidos Montreal Cancels 7+ Year In-Development Title That Cost Hundreds of MillionsCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We discuss Life is Strange: Reunion, impressions, and its lack of marketing, go over the recent PlayStation console price increase, and break down the Xbox Partner Preview.
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PlayStation has increased the prices of its consoles due to global economic pressures.Early adopters of gaming consoles benefit from price increases for new buyers.Nintendo's pricing strategy for digital vs physical games may influence consumer choices.The Xbox showcase featured several new game announcements, but overall reactions were mixed.The Super Mario Bros Galaxy movie is set to release soon, generating excitement among fans.Digital games often provide a cost advantage over physical copies, especially for Nintendo titles.The gaming industry is adapting to economic challenges by adjusting pricing strategies.Collectors value physical copies of games, particularly for Nintendo consoles.Marketing strategies for game releases are evolving, with teasers and character reveals becoming common.The potential for a Smash Bros-style movie is a topic of speculation among fans. Nintendo and Illumination could create a cinematic universe.Excitement for the new animated movie is palpable.Concerns about the upcoming film having too many characters.Yoshi's presence in the movie is a highlight for fans.Star Fox's return is a significant topic in gaming news.The gaming industry is facing major layoffs and closures.Ocarina of Time remake could be a big deal for fans.The future of live service games is uncertain.The impact of Fortnite's decline on the gaming industry is concerning.Upcoming releases like Pokémon Champions are generating buzz.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
EPISODE TIMECODES00:00:00 - Intro00:01:10 - Console Price Increases00:14:25 - Xbox Partner Showcase: March 202600:28:25 - Fox McLoud is in Mario Galaxy Movie00:34:20 - New StarFox & Ocarina of Time Remake Rumours00:42:25 - Studio Clorsures & Layoffs00:52:10 - Life is Strange: Reunion Impressions
RESOURCESHere's The New Aussie Prices For The PS5, PS5 Pro And PlayStation PortalNintendo Switch 2 Game Prices Are Changing With Digital Games To Be CheaperEverything Announced At The March 2026 Xbox Partner PreviewAll-new Star Fox and Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake reportedly set for Switch 2 release this year | Eurogamer.netGlen Powell is voicing Starfox's Fox McCloud in the upcoming Super Mario Galaxy movie | Eurogamer.netWanderstop studio Ivy Road to close after funding for second game "didn't come to fruition" | Eurogamer.netKrafton cancels F2P PUBG spin-off PUBG: Blindspot after just 2 months | Eurogamer.netFortnite-maker Epic Games lays off another 1,000 staffCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We discuss DLSS 5 and how it's adding to the AI slopness of the game industry.
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The introduction of DLSS5 has sparked significant backlash from gamers.AI technology in gaming can alter the original artistic intent of games.NVIDIA's DLSS5 aims to enhance graphics but raises concerns about photorealism.The gaming industry is experiencing a wave of layoffs and restructuring.Ubisoft's Red Storm Entertainment has shifted focus to tech support roles.Crystal Dynamics has faced multiple rounds of layoffs in a year.Leadership indecisiveness can lead to repeated layoffs and restructuring.The gaming community is critical of unnecessary technological advancements.There is a call for better management practices in gaming studios.The future of beloved franchises like Splinter Cell remains uncertain. The wealthy elite often rely on bonuses to maintain their lifestyle.Japanese publisher Atlas is raising salaries and reducing overtime.Staff retention is crucial for efficient game development.The rapid release of games in Japan contrasts with Western studios.Anticipation for Persona Six is high among fans.Starfield is set to release on PS5 soon.Nintendo Switch 2 has received a notable update.Refunding games on Steam can be a necessary choice.Supporting indie developers is important for the gaming ecosystem.April is packed with exciting game releases.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
CREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We discuss the future of Xbox with their upcoming hybrid PC/Console and what that means for their games.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
RESOURCESThe First Xbox Project Helix Details Have Been Revealed And Xbox Mode Is Coming To All PCsYoshi And The Mysterious Book's Release Date Has Been Revealed Alongside A Gorgeous New TrailerSouth of Midnight debuts on PS5 and Switch 2 later this month | Eurogamer.netCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We discuss the Nintendo Indie World for March 2026 and dive into the wonderful world ready to explore in Pokémon Pokopia.
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The Indie World Showcase featured a variety of new indie games.Dylan expressed excitement for the game Densha Attack.The game My Little Puppy has a unique premise involving dogs and heaven.Heave Ho 2 was announced, continuing the multiplayer co-op experience.Moonlighter 2 is set to release on Nintendo Switch in 2026.Dylan shared his thoughts on the shadow drop trend in gaming.Rumours suggest the next God of War game will feature Faye as the lead character.The gaming community has mixed reactions to the idea of a female lead in God of War.Capcom's recent showcase highlighted announcements for Mega Man and Resident Evil.Ubisoft announced a remake of Assassin's Creed Black Flag, raising questions about their choice. Assassin's Creed Black Flag remains a fan favourite.New titles like Hex and Invictus are on the horizon for Assassin's Creed.Live service games face high risks and rewards in the gaming industry.Local events like Level Up Tasmania support game development communities.Pokémon Pokopia has received high praise and is the highest-rated Pokémon game to date.The gameplay in Pokopia allows for creative environmental interactions.Scott Pilgrim EX expands on the beloved original game with new content.The emotional storytelling in games is becoming more prominent.The gaming community is eager for new multiplayer experiences.Game reviews provide insights into the evolving landscape of gaming.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
EPISODE TIMECODES00:00:00 - Intro00:00:30 - Nintendo Indie World Showcase00:13:45 - God of War Spin-Off Rumours00:20:50 - Capcom Spotlight 00:25:20 - Assassin's Creed Black Flag Remake Is 100% Real00:30:50 - Highguard Is Now Being Shutdown00:35:10 - Level Up Tasmania Is Back00:36:00 - Pokémon Pokopia Impressions00:48:50 - Poker Night at the Inventory & Scott Pilgrim EX Reviews00:51:10 - Outro
RESOURCESEverything Announced at the March 2026 Indie World Showcase - Explosion NetworkThe next God of War game stars a new protagonist rather than Kratos, insider claims, and will be revealed this year | Eurogamer.netCapcom Spotlight March – All the Trailers and Announcements - Explosion NetworkUbisoft Confirms Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Remake - Explosion NetworkTwo Months Later, Highguard Is Already Closing - Explosion NetworkLevel Up Tasmania 2026 Dates Confirmed for April 17–18 - Explosion NetworkPoker Night at the Inventory Review - Explosion NetworkScott Pilgrim EX Review - Explosion NetworkCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We talk about everything from the 2026 Pokémon Day, Pokémon Presents, including the reveal of Pokémon Wind & Waves.
Also on the show, we give our impressions on both Resident Evil: Requiem, as well as Marathon, after jumping into the server slam.
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The Pokémon Presents event celebrated the 30th anniversary of the franchise.New game features and updates were announced, including Pokémon Home support.The 10th generation of Pokémon games is set to release in 2027.Visual performance is a major concern for upcoming Pokémon titles.The hosts hope for a more polished experience with the new games.Bluepoint's potential Bloodborne remake was a hot topic of discussion.The gaming community is eager for more announcements throughout the anniversary year.Voice acting in Pokémon games is a desired feature among fans.The hosts reflect on the impact of leaks on excitement for new games.The conversation highlights the balance between nostalgia and innovation in gaming. Bluepoint's potential projects are still under discussion.The God of War series is generating mixed reactions online.Xbox is facing significant challenges with its branding strategy.Resident Evil Requiem balances horror and action effectively.Marathon's gameplay mechanics are engaging but require teamwork.Overwatch's return has revitalised interest in the franchise.The UI in Marathon is a major point of frustration for players.Upcoming game releases in March include several highly anticipated titles.The hosts emphasise the importance of community in multiplayer games.Resident Evil Requiem is noted for its stunning visuals and sound design.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
EPISODE TIMECODES00:00:00 - Intro00:01:30 - Pokemon Presents - Pokemon Day 202600:24:00 - Bluepoint Did Try & Remake Bloodborne00:32:30 - First Look At God of War Series00:37:30 - Ciaran's Thoughts On Xbox Change-Up00:41:45 - Resident Evil Requiem Impressions00:49:20 - Marathon - Servel Slam Impressions00:57:45 - Games Coming Out In March01:03:35 - Outro
RESOURCESPokémon Day 2026: All the Announcements From Pokémon Presents - Explosion NetworkBluepoint’s Bloodborne Remake Pitch Was Reportedly Rejected - Explosion NetworkPrime Video Reveals First Image From God of War Series - Explosion NetworkMarvel's Wolverine Launches on September 15, 2026 - Explosion NetworkVideo Game Releases Archives - Explosion NetworkCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We discuss the huge shakeup with the Xbox leadership team and the closure of Bluepoint Games.
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Phil Spencer's retirement marks a significant shift for Xbox.Asha Sharma's appointment raises questions about Xbox's future direction.Xbox's current position is precarious, with many uncertainties.The gaming industry is shifting towards live service models.Sony's closure of Blue Point Games highlights industry volatility.Live service games are struggling to find a sustainable model.The focus on monetisation is affecting game quality.Leadership changes can lead to drastic shifts in company strategy.The gaming community is highly invested in company leadership.The future of Xbox as a console is uncertain. The video game industry is losing time to apps and social media.Studio closures often stem from financial decisions rather than creative ones.New studios struggle to deliver successful games without prior experience.The gaming industry faces a constant battle between artistic vision and technological constraints.Anticipation for Pokémon's 30th anniversary is high, with expectations for new content.Remakes and remasters are a cost-effective strategy for studios.The importance of collaboration and team chemistry in game development cannot be overstated.The narrative depth in games can provoke thoughts on real-world issues.Lighting and art direction play a crucial role in game aesthetics.Player engagement is shifting, necessitating new strategies for developers.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
EPISODE TIMECODES00:00:00 - Intro00:01:10 - Xbox Leadership Change-up00:20:45 - Sony Shuts Down Bluepoint Games00:41:30 - Pokémon Presents Hopes00:48:25 - God of War Sons of Spartan Wrap-Up Review00:49:30 - Reanimal Review00:56:30 - Outro
RESOURCESMajor Xbox Shake-Up: Asha Sharma Named CEO of Microsoft Gaming - Explosion NetworkSony Shutters Bluepoint Games Just Years After Buying the Studio - Explosion NetworkPokémon Presents Announced for February 28 – 30th Anniversary Celebration - Explosion NetworkNintendo Bringing Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen to Switch - Explosion NetworkGod of War Sons of Sparta Review - Explosion NetworkCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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We break down the first State of Play for 2026, which brought plenty of surprises and new game trailers.
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The PlayStation Showcase featured a variety of new game announcements.Wolverine was included in the showcase, albeit not in the expected format.Kenna: Bridge of Spirits sequel shows significant development.Ghost of Yotai Legends is set to return with multiplayer features.Death Stranding 2 is confirmed for PC release.Resident Evil Requiem continues to generate buzz with frequent trailers.Legacy of Cain is getting a remaster, sparking interest in the franchise.A new 2.5D Castlevania game is in development, appealing to long-time fans.Unique IPs like Project Windlass are being introduced, showcasing creativity.Konami's segment highlighted both remasters and new titles, indicating a focus on legacy franchises. The John Wick game aims to capture the essence of the franchise.Bungie's Marathon is set to test servers with a service slam.PlayStation Plus is adding notable titles like Marvel's Spider-Man 2.Saros gameplay trailer showcases significant improvements over Returnal.Marvel's Fighting Souls introduces new characters like Storm and Magic.God of War trilogy remakes are in early development for PS6.Sons of Sparta explores Kratos's early life and relationships.The game aims to offer a different perspective on Kratos.Voice acting in Sons of Sparta has received mixed reviews.The game's combat mechanics differ from those in traditional God of War games. Wrestle Quest's pixel art aims for an authentic 80s aesthetic.Highguard's layoffs reflect broader issues in the gaming industry.Video game success is crucial for team retention.Mario Tennis Fever offers smooth, engaging gameplay.Mugenics combines humour with tactical gameplay mechanics.The gaming industry often relies on the success of the next release.Highguard's development challenges raise questions about live service games.The structure of video game development can lead to instability for teams.Mario Tennis Fever's story mode serves as an extended tutorial.Mugenics has the potential for addictive gameplay and deep mechanics.YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
EPISODE TIMECODES00:00:00 - Intro00:50:00 - State of Play Breakdown00:43:30 - God of War Sons of Sparta Review-In-Progress00:55:50 - Highguard Developer Lay Offs01:04:20 - Mario Tennis Fever Review-In-Progress01:13:20 - Mewgenics Impressions01:20:40 - Outro
RESOURCESEvery Announcement From February’s PlayStation State of Play - Explosion NetworkHighguard not shutting down following Wildlight layoffs, with a "core group" of developers left to support the game | Eurogamer.netCREDITS🎵 Music: Dylan Blight🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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