Episodes

  • Our thoughts on The Game Awards 2024. The winners of the year, the new announcements and the trailers.

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    The Game Awards this year had a better balance of trailers and awards.Developers were allowed to express their feelings during the awards.The Game Awards featured some surprising winners and notable omissions.The discussion around the Game Changer of the Year award raised questions about sincerity.Astro Bot winning Game of the Year was a significant moment.The Witcher 4 trailer introduced Ciri as the main character, which excited fans.The hosts reflected on the history of the Game Awards and their evolution.There was a humorous take on the absurdity of online criticisms regarding character designs.The conversation highlighted the importance of recognizing diverse games in award categories. The Witcher universe continues to evolve with new game elements.Elden Ring's showcase dynamics set high expectations for future titles.Project Robot's reveal has sparked anticipation among gamers.Outer Worlds 2 aims to deliver a unique experience within its universe.Split Fiction offers a fresh co-op adventure with intriguing mechanics.Borderlands 4 may be losing its signature personality in the latest trailer.The gaming industry is seeing a resurgence of nostalgic franchises.Obsidian's strategy of releasing multiple titles in one year is ambitious.The humour in Outer Worlds 2 is a key selling point for fans.The conversation reflects a deep passion for gaming and its narratives. Warframe has a dedicated audience despite not being mainstream.The Onimusha franchise is making a comeback after 20 years.Naughty Dog's new IP is highly anticipated and marks their fifth franchise.The Game Awards showcased a variety of new trailers and announcements.The hosts reflect on the performances and moments that stood out during the Game Awards.The involvement of big names like the Russo Brothers in gaming is noteworthy.The humour and creativity in game trailers can enhance audience engagement.Product placement in games can be both a creative choice and a marketing strategy.The chemistry between voice actors can elevate the gaming experience.The gaming community is excited about the future of storytelling in video games.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • We discuss the launch of Marvel Rivals, the new game that will challenge the Overwatch gameplay type. Dylan also talks about how much of a surprise Indiana Jones and The Great Circle has been.

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    DreamHack Melbourne's cancellation reflects broader issues in the esports scene.The identity crisis of esports events in Australia is a significant concern.Ubisoft's ExoFine faced challenges despite a strong initial player base.Marvel Rivals aims to attract Overwatch fans with a polished experience.Character dynamics are crucial in team-based games.Local events have a lower bar for success compared to international shows.The Australian esports scene needs more consistent events to grow.Players often seek quick returns rather than long-term growth in esports.Marvel Rivals has a pro-consumer approach with its battle pass system.The hosts enjoy the fun and silliness of gameplay despite competitive pressures. The battle pass system has sparked mixed reactions among players.Character abilities can significantly enhance gameplay experiences.The Indiana Jones game has been surprisingly well-received.Open-world exploration allows for a more immersive experience.Community feedback plays a crucial role in shaping game development.The storytelling aspect of games can be engaging and rewarding.Players appreciate the ability to choose how to progress in games.Game mechanics can vary widely between different titles.Expectations for the Game Awards are high among the gaming community.The pricing of premium editions can be controversial.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • We look ahead to 2025 and what games we must watch, including GTA VI, the Nintendo Switch 2, a new Pokemon Game, Ghost of Yotei, and more.

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    The Steam Deck has become a primary gaming console.Battery life on the Steam Deck is generally satisfactory.Games that require precision, like first-person shooters, are better suited for PC.The Steam Deck is ideal for indie and bite-sized games.Upcoming games in 2025 include highly anticipated titles like Assassin's Creed Shadows and Avowed.The gaming community is excited about including women's football in Football Manager 25.Nintendo's strategy includes big releases in January to capitalize on holiday sales.The Steam Deck's user interface is praised for its ease of use.Ciaran's experience with the Steam Deck has rekindled his love for gaming.The conversation reflects a growing acceptance of new gaming platforms like Blue Sky. Sweek it in 1 and 2 remaster is highly anticipated.Comedic horror games can be enjoyable.Dabble in new games, even if you're not a fan of the genre.Riot Games' new fighting game could change the industry.Cooperative gameplay can be fun even without a full team.Indie games are pushing the boundaries of storytelling.Major franchises are making a comeback with new titles.Innovative mechanics can enhance gameplay experiences.MMOs are evolving with new open-world concepts.Celebrity endorsements can create buzz for new games. Exploring new game concepts can lead to unexpected excitement.Anticipation for upcoming releases is a common theme among gamers.Unique game mechanics can enhance player engagement and enjoyment.2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the gaming industry.Marvel Rivals aims to innovate within the hero shooter genre.The influence of established creators like Ken Levine remains strong.Game adaptations can spark interest but also scepticism.Community feedback is crucial for the success of multiplayer games.Diversity in game narratives is increasingly important.Smaller indie games often stand out in a crowded market.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

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    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • We discuss S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl and its early reviews, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and the nominees for The Game Awards 2024.

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    Stalker 2 has a long development history.The game is set in a war-torn country.Review codes can impact public perception.Day one patches can change the game's reception.The game is designed to challenge players.Survival elements are basic but effective.No fast travel makes exploration challenging.Game Awards nominations reflect industry trends.Marketing campaigns can influence game success. The best Sims strategy game includes titles like Frostpunk 2.Innovation inaccessibility is often vague in nominations.The definition of RPGs is debated among the hosts.Prince of Persia is a highly anticipated title.The content creators nominated are not widely recognized.Indie games are gaining traction in the industry.Community support nominations raise questions about the criteria.Games for Impact highlights the narrative importance of gaming.The best adaptation category aims to bridge games and media.Audio design and art direction are crucial yet often overlooked. Game Awards nominations can be controversial and subjective.The definition of 'Game of the Year' varies among gamers.Cultural impact plays a significant role in game nominations.Predictions for Game Awards winners can be speculative.Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 offers a diverse campaign experience.The new movement system in Call of Duty enhances gameplay.DLCs and expansions raise questions about eligibility for awards.Multiplayer experiences in games can vary widely.The hosts express differing opinions on game nominations.Game Pass availability influences player engagement with titles.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • The Game Award Nominations are set to be announced this week but one Game of The Year nominee has been hinted at with clarification about what is eligible for the category. Ciaran and Ashley discuss how they feel about Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree potentially being up for Game of The Year. Plus Dylan shares his thoughts on LEGO Horizon Adventures.

    Hosts:Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil

    Episode Timecodes00:00:00 - Hello00:00:18 - Is Ciaran an Xbox?00:07:52 - Dylan’s LEGO Horizon Adventures Review00:19:31 - The Game Awards Expansion Clarification00:32:18 - The Game Award Nomination Predictions00:44:18 - Breaking Down Phil Spencer’s Bloomberg Interview01:00:40 - Overwatch Classic Coming to Overwatch II01:08:56 - Goodbye

    ReviewsLEGO Horizon Adventures Review: https://explosionnetwork.com/lego-horizon-adventures-review-lacking-the-lego-soul-for-this-adventure/

    ResourcesEurogamer- Phil Spencer says no "red lines" over any Xbox game coming to Nintendo or PlayStation

    Press-Start- Overwatch: Classic Will Bring The Original Heroes And Maps Back To The Game

    Push Square- The Game Awards Confirms DLC, Remasters Can Win Game of the Year Days Prior To Nominations Reveal

    Arcade Couch Credits:Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesAll Episodes:https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/Support Us:http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

  • We've all been playing Dragon Age: The Veilguard and discuss the gameplay, story, favourite companions, class and race choices and more.

    Dylan also discusses his final thoughts on Life is Strange: Double Exposure after finishing the game, and he and Ciaran discuss Wizard of the Coast's commitment to cross-over sets in Magic: The Gathering.

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    The character creation system in Dragon Age is highly praised for its depth and integration into the story.Combat mechanics improve significantly with increased difficulty settings, enhancing the tactical experience.The story of Dragon Age: The Veil Guard is considered less engaging compared to previous titles in the series.Multiplayer gaming experiences are often hindered by a lack of friends who play the same games.Character relationships and choices play a crucial role in the gameplay experience, affecting party dynamics.The game features a mix of linear and open-world elements, providing a balance of exploration and structure.Players appreciate the variety of companions and their unique skills, though some feel less connected to them than in previous games.The pacing of the game's early hours is criticized for being disjointed and lacking clear direction.The quest design could benefit from clearer indicators of difficulty and expectations for players.Overall, the game is rated as a solid experience, with room for improvement in storytelling and character engagement. Parrying activates powerful abilities like Necrotic Blades.Character customization is crucial for player engagement.The game design reflects its origins as a multiplayer co-op.Quest management encourages story progression without distractions.The absence of DLC allows focus on future projects like Mass Effect.Armour customization adds depth to character personalization.Merchant interactions are tied to reputation systems.Trophy systems can hinder player experience and freedom.Baldur's Gate 3 sets a high standard for RPGs.Gameplay mechanics can lead to player frustration. Woke culture in gaming reviews can skew perceptions.Life is Strange has both strong and weak elements.Character development is more important than power in games.Magic: The Gathering is shifting towards IP collaborations.Crossovers are challenging the uniqueness of gaming IPs.Players are divided on the impact of woke culture in games.The latest Life is Strange game has mixed reviews.Magic: The Gathering's collaborations may dilute its original lore.Pokémon TCG continues to evolve with new sets and events.The gaming community is adapting to rapid changes in-game content.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • Dylan and Ciaran discuss their time playing the first two chapters of Life is Strange: Double Exposure.

    They also discuss their time with the recently released Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket, which everyone seems to be playing right now.

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    The hosts express nostalgia for the original 'Life is Strange' series.The 'Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket' mechanics are simplified for a broader audience.Players are experiencing a mix of enjoyment and frustration with the battling system in 'Pokemon'.The importance of character interactions and emotional storytelling in games is highlighted.The hosts discuss the impact of early access on game releases.Gamers have a strong sense of community, as reflected in their discussions.The hosts emphasize the need for a ranked mode in Pokemon to enhance competitive play. To encourage engagement, players should receive XP for losing.The Wonder Picks feature enhances the excitement of card selection.Different booster packs contain unique cards, affecting strategy.Farfetch'd is currently an overpowered card in the game.The game mechanics differ from traditional trading card games, making it more accessible.The card collection aspect is a significant draw for players.Community engagement through liking binders can enhance the experience.The need for a dark mode in the game interface is emphasized.Upcoming game releases are varied and cater to different audiences.Personal preferences in gaming can influence engagement and enjoyment.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • Into the second week of Metaphor: ReFantazio and Dylan discuss with Ciaran the major early differences between the latest game from Atlus and the Persona series.

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    The gaming news cycle is slow during this time of year.Legacy of Kain is getting a remaster with significant updates.Beyond Good and Evil 2 has a new creative director after years of development.Star Citizen's development raises ethical concerns about funding and release.Game mechanics in new titles can significantly impact player experience.Remasters can breathe new life into classic games.Ubisoft's recent struggles reflect broader industry challenges.Player engagement and community feedback are crucial for game development.The importance of balancing ambition with realistic development timelines.Narrative elements in games can sometimes be confusing for players. Persona games are known for their cutscene-heavy narratives.The pacing of Persona games can be slow to start.Game sales can lead to significant consequences for development teams.High-quality games can still fail commercially due to marketing decisions.Nintendo's online playtest program is shrouded in secrecy.The gaming community is eager for new Nintendo announcements.The infrastructure of Nintendo's online services is often criticized.Developers face increasing pressure to ensure commercial success.The future of game development is uncertain amid changing market dynamics.Speculation about upcoming Nintendo Directs and game releases is rampant.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Resources

    Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered enhancements include map, compass, and more | Eurogamer.netBeyond Good & Evil 2 still in development, now with new creative director | Eurogamer.netPrince of Persia: The Lost Crown team disbands following low sales - Explosion Network'Switch Online Playtest Program' details leak - Explosion Network

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • It's the first show back from PAX, and Ciaran has dove right into playing Metaphor: ReFantazio.

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    'Never' is a beautiful game with a touching story.The Xbox Partner Showcase featured exciting new titles.Metaphor: Refantasio offers a unique gaming experience.The Pokemon hacking incident raises concerns about security.Nintendo's future consoles may not be backwards compatible.Game development should focus on maximizing console capabilities.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Resources

    Massive Future Pokemon Leaks Have Hit The Internet As Game Freak Confirms It Was HackedXbox Partner Showcase - October 2024: All the trailers and news - Explosion NetworkNeva Review - A bittersweet, beautiful journey - Explosion Network

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • Dylan, Ashley and Ciaran discuss their time at PAX AUS 2024 and highlight some of their favourite games on the show floor.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • In the lead-up to PAX AUS 2024, we discuss the Indie Showcase games, the nominees of the AGDA's and more.

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    Daylight savings sparks a humorous debate among the hosts.PAX is a major highlight, with excitement building for the event.The Australian Game Developer Awards nominees showcase local talent.Game reviews highlight the quality and creativity of new releases.Indie games are gaining recognition and importance in the gaming landscape.Metaphor: ReFantasio offers a unique blend of fantasy and persona-like gameplay.The card shop simulator game provides a fun and engaging experience.The hosts express their enthusiasm for upcoming game releases.Community engagement at PAX is a key focus for the hosts.The conversation reflects a deep passion for gaming and its culture.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Resources

    Australian Game Developer Awards finalists are led by Conscript, Diets & Deities and Kill Knight - Explosion NetworkKoalaty Critics: The Legend Of Zelda: Echoes Of Wisdom - Australian Review Roundup - Explosion NetworkPAX AUS features its largest ever tabletop area in 2024 - Explosion NetworkPAX AUS 2024 Indie Showcase Digital & Tabletop Games - Explosion Network

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • We discuss Assassin's Creed Shadow's delay and its removal from Ubisoft's booth at PAX AUS 2024 and how that will affect the show.

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    Ciaran expresses regret for past comments about PlayStation.Local gaming events can foster community engagement and excitement.Fans highly anticipate the Legacy of Kain remasters.Overwatch's current focus on skins over gameplay is concerning.The Tokyo Game Show showcased a variety of new games and trailers.Game Pass is expanding its library with classic JRPGs.The hosts reflect on the importance of local showcases for indie developers.There is a growing interest in games that highlight unique storytelling.The gaming community is eager for more diverse and engaging content.The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of gaming and its impact on players. PAX Week is set to feature exciting events like the Cult of the Lamb rave.The marriage ceremony at PAX is a unique addition to the gaming event.The Day Before's crowdfunding campaign has sparked controversy in the gaming community.February 2025 is shaping up to be a massive month for game releases.The Steam Deck offers a more streamlined gaming experience compared to the ROG.Battery life and boot time are significant factors in choosing a handheld gaming device.The hosts express excitement for indie games showcased at PAX.Community engagement is crucial for the success of crowdfunding campaigns.The gaming industry is seeing a shift towards more polished game releases.The Steam Deck's ergonomic design enhances the gaming experience.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Resources

    Aspyr & Crystal Dynamics Reveal Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered, Launching Dec. 10, 2024, on PC & ConsolesXbox TGS 2024 Broadcast: All the trailers and news from the show - Explosion NetworkBig Games Night Out 2024: All the details on this free MIGW event - Explosion NetworkThe Day Before dev is back, this time with a Kickstarter - and nope, absolutely notFebruary 2025 is now absurdly stacked with big games | PC Gamerhttps://x.com/UbisoftANZ/status/1839530412495777812

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • The Nintendo Switch 2 might have leaked; Tasmania is hosting its first video game showcase, and we've got reviews for two Australian games, The Plucky Squire and Copycat.

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    The Plucky Squire is a must-play for 2024.Australian regulations on loot boxes aim to protect children.Tasmania is hosting its first video game showcase.Nintendo Switch 2 leaks suggest significant upgrades.Netflix is adapting Splinter Cell into an animated series.Loot box regulations may not significantly change consumer behaviour.The importance of game ratings for parents is highlighted.The hosts share their thoughts on the future of gaming consoles.The discussion reflects a blend of humour and critical analysis. The new game 'Like a Dragon: Pirate Ikusa' features Goro Majima and is set in Hawaii.Players can jump in battles for the first time in the Like a Dragon series.Nintendo is suing Pocket Pair over alleged patent infringements related to 'Power World.'The lawsuit highlights the challenges indie developers face against major companies.'Drill Core' combines mining and tower defence mechanics, making it addictive.'Copycat' tells a touching story about a cat and its owner despite some gameplay flaws.The hosts express excitement for the upcoming PAX event and the games to be showcased.There is a growing variety of games available, reigniting excitement among gamers.'UFO 50' offers a unique experience with 50 fictional games from a fictional studio.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Resources

    The Plucky Squire Review - It's A Page Turner - Explosion NetworkAussie Government announces Loot Box and Gambling content classification changes - Vookshttps://explosionnetwork.com/level-up-tasmania-video-game-showcase-is-a-new-event-highlighting-local-talent/The First Nintendo Switch 2 Photos Might Have Just LeakedNetflix's Splinter Cell: Deathwatch animated series is "coming soon" | Eurogamer.netLike A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza In Hawaii Has Been Revealed Alongside An Epic Collector's EditionUPDATE: It's actually happening: Palworld developer Pocketpair is being sued by Nintendo and The Pokémon Company | VG247Drill Core Early Access Review - Explosion NetworkCopycat ReviewBakeru Review - Like A Transport Back To The N64 Classics - Explosion Network

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • Annapurna Interactive has its staff quit out of nowhere, so what's going on there?

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    The PlayStation Pro announcement sparked significant discussion among gamers.Microsoft's layoffs reflect ongoing challenges in the gaming industry.Total War Warhammer 3 continues to be popular among players.Space Marine 2 has received positive feedback for its gameplay and design.Flappy Bird's return is marred by controversy surrounding its new ownership.Assassin's Creed Shadows will be featured at PAX Australia, generating excitement.The gaming community is eager for big announcements at upcoming events.The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding the context behind gaming news.The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of the gaming industry.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley

    Resources

    Annapurna Video-Game Team Resigns, Leaving Partners Scrambling - BloombergMicrosoft lays off further 650 Xbox staff, no games cancelled or studios closed | Eurogamer.netSpace Marine 2 most successful Steam launch for Warhammer 40K series | Eurogamer.netThat Flappy Bird Revival Is Not As Wholesome As You ThinkAssassin's Creed Shadows Will Be Playable At PAX Australia Ahead Of Release

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • One video game is released to acclaim, and the other lasts just less than two weeks before it's scrubbed from the timeline.

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    NBA 2K25 features improved gameplay and animations but continues to face criticism for its monetization system.The game Concord was poorly marketed and executed, leading to its cancellation just 11 days after release.Sony's focus on multiplayer games and lack of support for smaller, single-player experiences like Astro Bot is a cause for concern.The Secret Level episode based on Concord will still be released despite the game's cancellation.There is a need for better marketing and support for indie games and single-player experiences in the gaming industry. The hosts have mixed opinions on the gaming market, with criticisms of PlayStation and Xbox's performance.Astro's Playroom is praised for its nostalgic and joyful elements, and the hosts express excitement for the game.The design choices in the Minecraft movie trailer receive criticism, particularly the use of live-action components.The hosts discuss the reactions to the Minecraft movie trailer, including right-wing backlash.The conversation highlights the importance of creativity and imagination in gaming experiences.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Resources

    The Minecraft Movie Teaser Looks Like A Nightmarish Fever DreamConcord will reportedly remain in Amazon's upcoming Secret Level series despite recent shutdown | Eurogamer.net

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • We discuss Star Wars Outlaws and Deadlock, the newest game from Valve!

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    Deadlock is praised for its MOBA elements and character varietyStar Wars: Outlaws receives criticism for its lackluster narrative and repetitive missionsThe hosts express disappointment with Star Wars: Outlaws and rate it around 5.5 out of 10 Star Wars: Hunters has frustrating mechanics, including inconsistent enemy AI and confusing level design.The Nintendo Direct announcements include a variety of upcoming game releases and updates.The new trailer for Sonic the Hedgehog 2 generates excitement and showcases the interplay between Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles. The Sonic 2 spoiler cast on What Do Want To Watch was the most donated episode last month.The updated Zelda timeline places Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom on separate timelines, which has sparked debate among fans.The Nintendo Live event had some logistical issues, but attendees still had a good time.Annapurna has acquired the film and TV rights for Control and Alan Wake in a partnership with Remedy Entertainment.Emio the Smiling Man is a visual novel game on the Switch that features a creepy villain and engaging gameplay.Arco is a pixel art isometric game set in Latin America in the late 1800s, where players control indigenous characters fighting against bandits.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Resources

    Star Wars Outlaws players told to restart game offered cosmetic ship trinket by Ubisoft as apology | Eurogamer.netEverything Announced At The August Double Nintendo DirectThe First Sonic 3 Movie Trailer Shows Off Keanu Reeves As Shadow And Double The Jim CarreyA New Zelda Timeline Confirms That BOTW And TOTK Exist On A Different Timeline To The Rest Of The GamesAlan Wake and Control film and television rights acquired by Annapurna | Eurogamer.net

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

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  • Conchord is now out but it seems like no one has noticed. Is the new Playstation release already on life support or is it possible to turn around its weak launch? Plus all the games shown during Gamescom Opening Night Live.

    Hosts:Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingoAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley

    Episode Timecodes

    00:00:00 - Hello00:00:58 - Concord’s First Weekend Thoughts00:27:26 - Gamescom Opening Night Live Recap01:01:52 - Valve Offically Reveal Deadlock01:05:47 - Black Myth: Wukong is a big deal01:11:14 - Goodbye

    Resources

    Gamescom Opening Night Live 2024: All the trailers, news and revealsValve's New Game Deadlock Has Finally Been Officially RevealedBlack Myth: Wukong continues to attract record-breaking numbers of playersXbox Boss Phil Spencer Explains Decision to Launch Indiana Jones and the Great Circle on PS5

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie Henriques

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    https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/

    Support Us:

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  • Dylan and Ashley have played a couple of hours of The Plucky Squire, which finally has a release date, and they discuss what they've played and their thoughts on the game.

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    Dylan's mixed review of 'The Crush House.'The release date of Dragon Age: The Veil GuardDiscussion on the potential release date of the Nintendo Switch 2Mention of Valve's unannounced hero shooter, Deadlock, and the large number of players already playing the game. Valve's involvement in Gamescom and Geff Keighley's role are discussedSpeculation on potential game announcements and reveals at GamescomDylan shares their thoughts on the Dungeons of Hinterberg

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyResources

    The Crush House Review - Thirsty shooter dry's up fast - Explosion NetworkDragon Age: The Veilguard's Release Date Has Been Officially Confirmed Along With A Character's Exciting ReturnHopes fade for Switch 2 launch in early 2025 | Eurogamer.netThousands Of People Are Playing Deadlock, Valve's Unannounced New Hero ShooterHere Are The Games Confirmed For Gamescom Opening Night Live 2024The Plucky Squire Hands-On Preview - Explosion Network

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

    All Episodes:

    https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/

    Support Us:

    http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion
  • Ash has watched the Borderlands movie and says it's as bad as you've heard.

    Show Dot Points

    Cat Quest 3 is praised for its gameplay mechanics and visual style.The Borderlands movie has received negative reviews and criticism, with many considering it disappointing.The studio interference and lack of violence in the Borderlands movie have been major points of criticism.Metacritic provides a list of the top 10 highest-rated video game film adaptations. Metacritic ratings can be a good indicator of the quality of video game movies.Some video game movies, like Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and Monster Hunter, were ranked higher than expected.The conversation highlights the lack of representation of certain video game movies, such as Super Mario Bros.The hosts express their personal preferences and excitement for upcoming video game movies. The movie 'Werewolves Within' is a highly-rated video game adaptation directed by Josh Rubin.The TV show 'Arcane' had episodes leaked online, which is a setback for the series.Accessing the game Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown on PC requires signing into Ubisoft Connect, which can be frustrating.An 'Until Dawn' movie is in the works, and it will likely rely on the fact that many people haven't played the game.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Resources

    Cat Quest III Review - Yarrr!!! Meowww!!! - Explosion NetworkCritic reviews of the Borderlands movie are absolutely savage | PC GamerArcane fans warned to avoid major spoilers, as majority of Season 2 leaks online | Eurogamer.net

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

    All Episodes:

    https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/

    Support Us:

    http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion
  • Dylan talks about how funny Thank Goodness You're Here is, and we discuss the biggest news stories of the week.

    Show Dot Points

    Game Informer, one of the last gaming magazines, is shutting down after 33 years.The closure of Game Informer is part of a trend of layoffs and closures in the gaming journalism industry.GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen has emphasized the need to scrutinize expenses and eliminate waste.The closure of Game Informer marks the end of an era for gaming magazines and reflects the decline of print media in the gaming industry.Digital content creators, such as YouTubers and TikTokers, have become more influential in shaping opinions and preferences in the gaming community.Game Informer covers hold nostalgic value for many gamers, evoking memories of browsing through magazines in the past.The lack of archiving of Game Informer's content is disappointing, as it prevents access to valuable gaming journalism and historical articles.The release of a new episode of the Double Fine Adventure documentary series provides deeper insight into the passion and challenges of video game development.EB World Plus, a new paid membership program by EB Games, offers extra trade value and bonus offers, but its value proposition may not be appealing to all gamers.

    Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

    Resources

    Avowed Delayed to February 2025 to 'Give Players' Backlogs Some Breathing Room'Game Informer is shutting down - The VergeDouble Fine drops a 90-minute update to its 20+ hour series documenting the development of Psychonauts 2 | Eurogamer.netEB World Plus Is A New Paid Membership That Offers Extra Trade Value And Other Bonus Offers

    Arcade Couch Credits:

    Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesSummary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

    All Episodes:

    https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/

    Support Us:

    http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion