Episodes
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Gaming pickups, Xbox employee concerns, Mario Kart Tour shutdown, Xbox layoffs, PlayStation backlash, SGDQ talk, and an A Short Hike review.
Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:28 Game Pickups and Miniatures Discussion03:32 Current Games: Evil West and Short Hike06:11 Physical Game Pickups and Onimusha08:56 Summer Games Done Quick and Speedrunning Community11:27 Xbox's Corporate Changes and Employee Sentiment20:20 Mario Kart Tour Shutdown and Digital Game Concerns23:21 Xbox's Restructuring and Layoffs26:58 The Future of Game Studios33:25 PlayStation's Digital Shift and Consumer Backlash39:21 Game Review: A Short Hike50:13 Outro Video
John and Ryan return with another packed week of gaming talk, starting with their recent pickups. John adds A Short Hike and new D&D miniature materials to his collection, while Ryan dives into The Adventures of Elliot. John continues sharing his experience with Evil West on PS5, and Ryan spends time watching SGDQ and talking about standout runs.
In the news, the guys break down reports that Xbox employees are unhappy with leadership, feeling the company is being run like a startup and prioritizing consumer sentiment over developer needs. They also discuss the shutdown of Mario Kart Tour this September, with no offline version planned.
The conversation continues with Microsoftâs latest shakeup as Xbox lays off 3,200 employees, followed by reactions to PlayStationâs first tweet since announcing plans to end physical discs â and how poorly itâs being received.
To wrap up the episode, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week features a review of A Short Hike on PC, as John and Ryan evaluate the gameâs charm, pacing, and current market value.
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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Xbox discâtoâdigital testing, Sony ending physical games, Krafton bonus payouts, gaming pickups, and an Onimusha Warlords review with guest Barry Carenza of PMâStudios.
00:00 Intro03:31 Video Game Pickups21:59 Digital Transformation in Gaming27:05 Digitizing Game Collections29:24 The Challenge of Storage Space31:27 The Future of Digital Ownership34:20 Game Sharing and Family Plans36:51 Sony's Shift to Digital40:41 The Impact on Consumers43:07 The Economics of Digital vs Physical46:28 The Future of Gaming Ownership01:00:28 The Infinite Backlog of Games01:01:55 Digital vs Physical: The Game Ownership Debate01:03:01 Licensing Issues and Game Availability01:05:45 The Future of Digital-Only Gaming01:10:28 Consumer Power and the Importance of Physical Sales01:12:19 The Good News: Crafton and Subnautica 201:17:45 Inflation vs Deflation: Onimusha Warlords Review01:32:09 Outro Video
John and Ryan are joined this week by Barry Carenza of PMâStudios and the Nintendo Fuse Podcast for a packed conversation covering pickups, industry shifts, and retro action classics. The trio opens with their recent gaming pickups, comparing what theyâve added to their collections and whatâs currently grabbing their attention.
They move into Microsoftâs latest experiment as Xbox begins testing discâtoâdigital conversions, followed by reactions to multiple companies making fun of Sonyâs decision to end physical games. This leads into a deep, extended discussion on Sonyâs move away from physical media and the massive ripple effect this shift could have across collectors, retailers, preservation, and the broader gaming market.
The group also covers the news of Krafton paying out bonuses to employees after a longstanding disagreement, noting how rare positive labor outcomes are in the industry.
To close out the episode, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week features a review of Onimusha Warlords on PS2/PS4, as the hosts revisit the samurai action classic and evaluate how it holds up today.
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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Missing episodes?
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Xbox Helix pricing leak, new Steam Machine pricing, and 15 essential video games everyone should play â featuring Will from PlayStation Ainât Dead.
Chapters:00:00 Celebrating 400 Episodes and Game Picks03:13 Game Recommendations and Collecting Magic Cards06:17 Exploring Game Soundtracks and Vinyl Collecting09:03 Current Gaming Experiences and Upcoming Titles12:14 Game Collecting Adventures and Rare Finds15:10 Diving into Unique Game Narratives18:13 Final Thoughts on Game Collecting and Deals22:12 Vinyl Collecting and Gaming Nostalgia24:46 Current Gaming Picks and Strategies28:46 Digimon's Resurgence and Legacy32:00 The Challenges of Game Saving32:14 Steam Machine Pricing and Market Dynamics41:38 Project Helix: The Future of Xbox Gaming44:14 The Future of Gaming Consoles47:11 Game Pass and Digital Gaming Trends48:11 Hidden Gems in Gaming56:13 Exploring Unique Game Mechanics01:00:07 Family-Friendly Gaming Experiences01:13:27 Halloween Costumes and Game References01:14:09 Exploring Prey: A Unique Gaming Experience01:17:43 Will's Game Recommendations: A Ninja's Perspective01:20:13 Resident Evil 2: A Classic Horror Experience01:21:24 Twisted Metal 2: The King of Vehicular Combat01:24:10 Metal Slug: The Iconic Run and Gun Game01:26:43 PUBG: The Battle Royale Phenomenon01:29:58 Recap of Must-Play Games01:37:07 Outro
John and Ryan are joined this week by Will from the PlayStation Ainât Dead podcast for a focused, discussionâheavy episode built around industry updates and personal game picks. The trio starts by breaking down the leaked pricing details for the Xbox Helix hardware, followed by reactions to the Steam Machine pricing that was recently announced.
From there, each host selects five essential games they believe everyone should play, creating a combined list of 15 standout titles across genres, platforms, and eras. The conversation centers on why these games matter, what makes them memorable, and how they represent the best of what gaming has to offer.
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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Video Game playthrough updates, upcoming releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo breach, Game Pass impact, and a retro review of YuâGiâOh! Forbidden Memories.
00:00 Introduction03:15 Game Pickups and Collectibles06:22 Current Gaming Experiences09:17 Investments in Gaming Stocks12:15 Upcoming Game Releases15:23 Remote Play and Gaming on the Go18:13 Industry News: PlayStation Exclusives21:11 Future of Gaming: Digital vs Physical24:12 Nintendo Data Breach Discussion33:18 The Future of Xbox Exclusives39:15 The Impact of Game Pass on Console Sales48:12 Studio Closures and IP Ownership57:13 Yu-Gi-Oh! Forbidden Memories Review01:09:05 Outro Video
John and Ryan jump into another packed week of gaming talk, starting with what theyâre currently playing. Ryan shares his time with Mina the Hollower, while John continues working through Killzone Shadow Fall. The conversation then shifts to upcoming releases the duo is excited about before moving into a discussion on remote play and gaming on the go.
Industry news takes center stage as they explore the latest updates around PlayStation exclusives and what those decisions mean for the platform. That leads into a broader conversation about the future of gaming, specifically the ongoing debate between digital and physical media.
The episode also covers the recent Nintendo data breach and whatâs known so far, followed by a look at where Xbox exclusives may be heading. John and Ryan then break down the impact Game Pass is having on console sales and how subscription models continue to shape the market. They wrap up the news segment with a discussion on Xbox studio closures and IP ownership.
To close out the show, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week takes a nostalgic turn with a review of YuâGiâOh! Forbidden Memories, as the guys revisit the PS1 classic and evaluate its place in todayâs retro market.
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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Showcase week breakdowns, Nintendo legal updates, rising hardware costs, current playthroughs, and a retro review of Monster Rancher Battle Card.
Chapters:00:00 Intro09:19 Magic: The Gathering Insights16:01 Brave Fencer Musashi Thoughts23:10 Current Gaming Adventures: Killzone Shadowfall23:40 Exciting Game Pickups25:27 Digital Gaming Trends and Preferences31:21 Exploring Mina the Hollower: Gameplay and Mechanics36:28 Diving into Pathfinder: A D&D Experience38:01 Nintendo vs. Pow World: Legal Battles in Gaming42:24 Is Gaming a Luxury Hobby?51:37 Highlights from Summer Games Fest 202658:47 Gaming Showcase Highlights01:01:13 Nintendo Direct Overview01:06:34 Ocarina of Time Remake Discussion01:11:33 Monster Rancher Battle Card Review01:24:54 Outro Video
John and Ryan are back with a full week of gaming updates, starting with their recent pickups and what theyâre currently playing. Ryan shares his time with Mina the Hollower, while John dives into Killzone Shadow Fall as part of his ongoing backlog adventures.
The conversation moves into Nintendoâs ongoing legal situation, as new analysis suggests the company may only receive a $30,000 payout in its PokĂ©monârelated case involving Palworld developer Pocketpair. From there, the guys tackle a broader industry question: whether rising hardware prices are pushing gaming closer to becoming a luxury hobby.
The episode then shifts into showcase season, with full rundowns of Summer Game Fest 2026, the Xbox Games Showcase 2026, and the June 2026 Nintendo Direct. John and Ryan highlight the major reveals, announcements, and trailers across all three events, comparing how each platform approached its big summer moment.
To wrap things up, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week takes a retro turn with a look at Monster Rancher Battle Card on the Game Boy Color, as the duo revisits the spinâoffâs mechanics, presentation, and current market value.
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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Nintendo news, Steam Machine launch, PlayStation State of Play highlights, MTG Marvel set records, and a retro review of Magic: The Gathering Battlemage on the Game Deflators Podcast.
Chapters:00:00 Intro03:11 Pickups and current plays06:09 John's PlayStation 5 Troubles and Game Resolutions09:11 Ryan's Inflation Deflation Challenge and Game Recommendations12:11 Mina the Hollower: A Game of the Year Contender18:20 Innovative Mechanics in Mina the Hollower24:05 Nintendo's Patent Loss and Switch 2 Developments30:18 Valve's Steam Machine Release and Pricing Speculations35:50 Pricing and Marketing Strategies for New Consoles36:45 PlayStation State of Play Highlights49:47 Wolverine Game Mechanics and Expectations51:18 Upcoming Game Events and Releases52:24 Magic: The Gathering's New Marvel Set Discussion01:00:32 Review of Magic: The Gathering Battle Mage01:11:06 Outro
John and Ryan return with a full slate of gaming and TCG news. They start with Nintendoâs recently denied touchscreenârelated patent, discussing what the decision means as the company continues navigating its separate legal battle with Pocketpair over Palworld. The conversation then moves to Nintendoâs confirmation that the upcoming Switch 2 will feature a replaceable battery in the EU, adding another notable detail to the nextâgen hardware rollout.
The guys also cover Valveâs announcement that the new Steam Machine is officially set to ship this summer, marking the companyâs latest move in the hardware space. From there, they break down all of the major reveals and trailers from the June 2026 PlayStation State of Play, highlighting the biggest announcements from the showcase.
Magic: The Gathering makes headlines as the new Marvel crossover set breaks records, prompting discussion about the momentum behind the release. To wrap up the episode, John and Ryan revisit the PS1 era with a look at Magic: The Gathering â Battlemage for this weekâs Inflation Deflation Game, giving the retro title a fresh evaluation.
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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The Game Deflators break down new pickups, big gaming news, PS6 backwards compatibility rumors, a Steam Deck price jump, and a retro review of Woody Woodpecker on PS2.
Chapters:00:00 Intro03:34 Game Pickups and Retro Game Books06:45 Magic Card Collection and Trading Insights09:44 Valkyrie Profile Gameplay Experience12:40 Saros Game Review and Gameplay Mechanics15:33 Upcoming Game Releases and Personal Gaming Plans18:51 Microsoft's Exclusive Titles and Banjo Kazooie Nostalgia35:39 Nostalgia and Character Development in Gaming37:38 The Future of Xbox Exclusives40:46 Lenovo's Controversial Handheld Console47:45 Steam Deck Price Hike and Market Impact54:43 PlayStation 6 and Backward Compatibility59:42 Woody Woodpecker Game Review and Nostalgia01:11:12 Outro
John and Ryan return with a fresh round of gaming talk, starting with new pickups from RetroGameBooks.com and a look at what each host has been playing. John is closing in on the finale of Valkyrie Profile, while Ryan celebrates completing Saros and shares thoughts on its final stretch.
The conversation shifts to community sentiment as Xbox players voice a growing desire for a revival of Banjo Kazooie. The guys break down why the franchise still resonates and whether Microsoft might finally listen.
From there, the episode takes a sharp turn into hardware drama. Lenovo has pulled a handheld device that shipped preloaded with Nintendo and Sega games, raising questions about licensing, oversight, and how something like this makes it to market. The Steam Deck also enters the spotlight after a major price hike that has players debating value, timing, and Valveâs longâterm strategy.
PlayStation rumors heat up as reports suggest the PS6 could support PS3 titles thanks to a new CPU design. John and Ryan explore what this could mean for backward compatibility and how it might reshape Sonyâs next generation.
To wrap up the show, the Inflation Deflation Challenge features a retro review of Woody Woodpecker: Escape from Buzz Buzzard Park on the PS2. The guys revisit its chaotic platforming, oddball charm, and current market value to decide whether it still holds up.
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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A wild week in gaming as PSN accounts get stolen, Valve takes aim at scalpers, rare PS4 copies of Poop Slinger resurface, GTA 6âs publisher flexes its expected profits, and the Game Deflators review Ed Edd n Eddy on GameCube.
00:00 Introduction01:51 Recent Game Pickups and Magic Cards Discussion04:51 Gameplay Experiences and Strategies in Commander07:55 Exploring New Game Mechanics and Deck Strategies11:06 Valkyrie Profile and Other Game Updates14:00 Insurance for Game Collectors and Cataloging Collections16:54 Personal Gaming Experiences and Stardew Valley19:58 Soros Gameplay and Progression28:47 News on Limited Game Releases and Poopslinger34:25 The Impact of Limited Rare on Game Value34:55 PlayStation Network Security Concerns37:17 Xbox's Customer Feedback and Exclusive Games39:02 Grand Theft Auto VI: Anticipation and Financial Projections47:17 Valve's Strategy Against Scalpers01:00:42 Ed, Edd n Eddy: Misadventures Review and Nostalgia01:13:14 Outro
John and Ryan dive into one of the strangest and most entertaining weeks in gaming news, blending industry shakeâups, collector surprises, and a retro review that hits right in the earlyâ2000s nostalgia.
They kick things off with the unexpected return of Poop Slinger, the notoriously rare PS4 oddball that suddenly started appearing in game stores. The guys break down why this bizarre title became a collector legend and what its reappearance means for rarity chasers.
From there, the tone shifts as they dig into a growing security mess: PlayStation Network account thefts. Hackers are reportedly exploiting minimal recovery info to hijack accounts, and John and Ryan unpack how this is happening.
Next up is the biggest flex in gaming: GTA 6âs publisher openly bragging about the astronomical revenue they expect at launch. The hosts debate whether this confidence is earned hype or corporate chestâthumping at its finest.
Valve enters the spotlight with a surprisingly proactive move as the company unveils its plan to stop Steam Machine scalpers. John and Ryan explore how Valve intends to curb botting and whether this could become a model for future hardware releases.
To wrap things up, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week takes a nostalgic turn with a review of Ed, Edd n Eddy: The MisâEdventures on GameCube. Expect childhood memories, questionable physics, and a debate over whether this cartoon tieâin deserves its current market price.
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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John and Ryan chat with Odd Family Games about Herdvanaâs origins, design choices, indie challenges, and the future of tabletop gaming.
00:00 Introduction to Odd Family Games and Hervana01:42 The Concept and Development of Hervana06:45 Gameplay Mechanics and Strategy09:49 Expansions and Additional Features13:35 Art Style and Visual Development18:52 Kickstarter Experience and Manufacturing Challenges23:12 The Journey to Kickstarter Success24:46 Playtesting and Game Development Insights27:33 Inspiration from Other Games30:02 Future Plans for Herdvana31:23 Navigating the Indie Game Industry32:57 The Enduring Appeal of Tabletop Games36:53 Advice for Aspiring Game Developers41:02 Supporting Indie Games and Community Engagement44:27 Outro Video
John and Ryan sit down with Andrew and Thane of Odd Family Games to dig into the creative spark, design philosophy, and indie hustle behind their breakout tabletop title, Herdvana. The conversation traces how a simple family dinnerâtable idea grew into a fully realized game world, why the team focused on a specific emotional experience for players, and how they shaped Herdvanaâs visual identity.
The group explores the realities of indie manufacturing and distribution, the player feedback that reshaped the game, and the classic titles that influenced Andrew and Thane as designers. They also break down the current state of the indie tabletop scene, why physical games continue to thrive in a digitalâfirst world, and what advice theyâd give to firstâtime creators. The episode wraps with how fans can best support Odd Family Games as they continue to grow.
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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Game Deflators dive into Wizards union drama, Sony PlayStation antitrust battles, N4G misfires, Nintendo Direct reactions, and a Rugrats PS1 classic.
00:00 Introduction01:19 Game Pickups and Magic the Gathering04:26 Building Decks and Strategies07:23 Current Gaming Experiences 10:13 Dungeon Crawler Carl 16:10 Game Boy Micro and New Game Experiences23:12 Comparing Saros and Returnal28:09 Quick News and Industry Updates33:56 The Shift from Community to Curation40:21 The Rise and Fall of Xbox Copilot44:14 Xbox's Future: Competition and Innovation52:13 Star Fox Direct: Nostalgia vs. Innovation01:00:42 Rugrats: A Trip Down Memory Lane01:11:50 Outro
John and Ryan are back with another week of industry shakeâups, corporate stumbles, and a retro trip to the PS1 era.
The episode opens with Wizards of the Coast once again fumbling labor relations as the company misses the deadline to voluntarily recognize its workers union. The duo breaks down why this matters for the tabletop and digital teams pushing for better conditions.
From there, the guys turn to Sony, where the company is on the verge of a major loss in a classâaction lawsuit alleging anticompetitive digital pricing practices. Ryan digs into how Sonyâs walledâgarden strategy may finally be catching up with them.
The conversation shifts to longârunning gaming site N4G, which has abruptly removed all community features and gutted its userâdriven identity. John reflects on the siteâs early influence, while Ryan wonders whether this is a pivot, a panic move, or the beginning of the end.
Next up: Microsoft quietly kills the Copilot AI for Xbox, a feature nobody asked for and even fewer used. Ryan breaks down why the tool never found an audience. Then The guys then dive into the latest Nintendo Direct, including the communityâs mixed reaction.
To wrap things up, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week features a nostalgic return to the PlayStation 1 with Rugrats: Search for Reptar. The duo revisits the purpleâandâgreen chaos of the late â90s, breaks down how the game holds up today, and decides whether its current market price is justified or inflated by childhood memories.
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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Xbox revenue drops, PokĂ©mon channel hit by Nintendo strikes, Dungeon Crawler Carlâs Kickstarter surges, MTG breaks prerelease records and unionizes, PlayStation license checks spark concern, plus a retro review of Sam & Max Hit the Road.
00:00 Intro02:19 Game Pickups and Current Plays05:05 Magic the Gathering and Card Sorting08:16 Dungeon Crawler Carl and Audiobooks11:09 TV Shows and Streaming Updates14:12 Game News and Industry Updates20:19 Nintendo's Copyright Strikes and Community Engagement26:17 Dungeon Crawler Carl Kickstarter Success30:33 Humorous AI Interactions31:22 Magic: The Gathering's Success33:24 Unionization in Gaming Industry41:00 PlayStation's Digital License Controversy53:20 Sam and Max: A Classic Adventure Game01:02:06 Outro
This week the Game Deflators podcast brings a mix of industry shakeâups, copyright drama, and retro PC chaos. The episode opens with recent gaming pickups before diving into Xboxâs steep Gen9 hardware revenue drop, raising questions about the Series generationâs longâterm trajectory.
The conversation shifts to Nintendo after a major PokĂ©mon YouTube channel was shut down by copyright strikes, sparking debate about creator rights and Nintendoâs long history of aggressive enforcement. From there, the spotlight moves to tabletop as Dungeon Crawler Carlâs Kickstarter blows past $6M, and Magic: The Gathering hits two milestones: Strixhaven becomes the biggest prerelease event ever, and the MTG Online team officially unionizes.
Sony enters the mix as players report new PlayStation online license checks, though the company quickly works to calm concerns. The episode wraps with a retro PC classic as the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week revisits Sam & Max Hit the Road.
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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New game pickups, PlayStation age checks, a Nintendo lawsuit, VGP reprints, a tribute to Lou Zocchi, Xbox Game Pass price cuts, the rise of mini PCs, and a retro review of Who Framed Roger Rabbit on NES.
00:00 Intro11:34 Recent Game Picks and Reading Adventures19:33 PlayStation Age Verification and Nintendo Lawsuit27:12 Reprints and Collectibles in Gaming39:21 Tribute to a Gaming Legend40:47 Xbox Game Pass Price Cuts50:32 Emerging Mini PC Market57:50 Who Framed Roger Rabbit: A Retro Review01:06:26 Outro
John and Ryan dive into a packed week of gaming news and retro fun. The guys kick things off with their latest game pickups and what theyâve been reading before jumping into Sonyâs new PlayStation ageâverification rules and the latest Nintendo lawsuit making headlines.
They also break down the growing wave of VGP reprints, collectibles, and what it means for game preservation. After a brief tribute to tabletop legend Lou Zocchi, the conversation shifts to Microsoftâs surprising Xbox Game Pass price cuts and the fastârising mini PC market shaking up the hardware scene.
Finally, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week takes the duo back to the NES for a retro review of Who Framed Roger Rabbit.
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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The Game Deflators dig into Nintendo leak rumors, wild industry updates, odd Hasbro moves, Xboxâs shifting strategy, D&D publishing changes, and close with a retro review of Bucky OâHare on the NES.
00:00 Introduction02:34 Game Pickups and Recent Plays09:21 Exploring Current Games and Experiences14:53 Guilty Gear Strive Tournament Experience18:29 Resident Evil 9 Review and Discussion29:06 Magic: The Gathering News and Reactions33:02 Bloodborne Animated Film Announcement33:42 Exploring the Origins of Monsters34:16 Innovative Gaming Controllers and Accessibility36:52 Nintendo's Strategic Leaks39:41 Xbox's Future: Publisher or Platform?54:14 The Future of D&D: Outsourcing to Third Parties01:01:38 Bucky O'Hare: A Retro Gaming Review01:09:39 Outro
This week on The Game Deflators, John and Ryan return with a stacked lineup of gaming news, industry rumors, and retro goodness. The episode kicks off with a string of rapid fire updates, including Hasbroâs baffling decision to print My Little Pony Secret Lairs for Magic: The Gathering, the announcement of an animated Bloodborne movie, and Sonyâs newly filed patent for a moldable controller that has everyone questioning whether it is innovation or gimmickry. The guys also dig into one of the wildest rumors of the week: Nintendo allegedly leaking false information internally to catch leakers, a move that feels both strategic and very on brand.
From there, the conversation shifts to Xbox, where leadership is reportedly debating the future of exclusives and whether the company should pivot toward publishing games across all platforms. John breaks down the potential identity risks, while Ryan explores the financial logic behind a more open strategy. The tabletop world gets its share of attention too, as rumors swirl that Wizards of the Coast may shift D and D publishing to third party studios, raising questions about quality, workload, and the future of the brand.
To wrap things up, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week spotlights Bucky OâHare for the NES. John and Ryan revisit the Konami cult classic, examining its difficulty, charm, and current market value before deciding whether this green furred space hero still holds up or if nostalgia is doing the heavy lifting.
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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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John and Ryan sit down with voice actor and comedian Joe Whyte, the talent behind Chris Redfield in the Resident Evil remake, for a deep dive into his multiâlayered career. From his early days as a Disney 3D artist to his evolution into voice acting and improv, Joe shares how he approaches character work, performance, and the craft of bringing digital heroes to life.
Hear rare behindâtheâscenes stories from the Resident Evil recording sessions, insights into the acting process that most fans never get to hear, and candid reflections on the unexpected twists of working across games, animation, and themeâpark entertainment. Whether youâre a longtime RE fan or just love hearing how iconic roles come together, this is an episode you wonât want to miss.
Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Joe Whyte01:05 Joe's Journey to Disney Animation11:14 Voice Acting Beginnings at Disney18:47 The Role of Chris Redfield in Resident Evil26:30 Creative Challenges in Voice Acting33:36 The Impact of Improv on Voice Acting43:11 Finding Humor in Failure46:36 The Funniest Moments in Voice Acting50:02 Creative Challenges in Animation54:01 The Freedom of Voiceover Performance57:37 Improv vs. On-Camera Precision01:05:41 Advice for Aspiring Creators01:15:42 The Reality of Rejection in Acting
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflatorsFacebook - www.facebook.com/TheGameDeflatorsInstagram - www.instagram.com/thegamedeflators
The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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Sonyâs latest PS5 price hike, MTGâs digital resurrection of Library of Alexandria, the criticâfan divide on the new Mario movie, a Sony patent aimed at nerfing crossâplatform players, Nintendo losing its âsummoningâ patent, how D&D supports mental health, and a retro review of Springer on Atari.
This week on The Game Deflators, John and Ryan hit a rapidâfire lineup of gaming news and retro goodness.
They kick things off with Sonyâs newest PS5 price increase and what it signals for the console market. Then itâs on to Magic: The Gathering, where Library of Alexandria is making a surprise appearance in MTG Arena â and the guys debate whether this is nostalgia done right or digital power creep.
The duo also dives into the growing gap between critic reviews and fan reactions to the new Mario movie, followed by a look at a recent Sony patent that appears designed to nerf crossâplatform players based on input detection.
Next, they unpack the U.S. Patent Officeâs decision to revoke Nintendoâs âsummoningâ patent, a move that frees up gameâmechanic creativity across the industry. John and Ryan also explore how Dungeons & Dragons continues to support mental health through structured roleâplay and community storytelling.
Finally, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week spotlights Springer for the Atari â a quirky platformer that gets the full Deflators treatment.
Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Overview of Topics04:02 Game Pickups and Unboxing Dungeons & Dragons05:35 Current Gaming Experiences and Upcoming Titles10:27 Discussion on PS5 Price Increase16:29 Sony's Dynamic Adjustments Patent21:06 Critique of the New Mario Movie28:34 Magic: The Gathering and Over-Saturation of Sets32:51 The Power of Card Mechanics39:09 Sustainability in Card Games47:26 Therapeutic Role of Dungeons and Dragons52:56 The Impact of Patents on Gaming59:25 A Deep Dive into Springer Rabbit
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflatorsFacebook - www.facebook.com/TheGameDeflatorsInstagram - www.instagram.com/thegamedeflators
The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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Nintendo cuts console shipments, Epic Games lays off 1,000 employees, John and Ryan build an Elite 8 of gamingâs best consoles, and Yo! Noid hits the Inflation Deflation hot seat.
This week on The Game Deflators, John and Ryan dive into one of the most turbulent news cycles the gaming industry has seen in months. Things kick off with Nintendoâs decision to reduce console shipments, a move tied to a cooling global video game market. From there, the conversation turns to the weekâs biggest shockwave: Epic Games laying off 1,000 employees.
Then itâs time for the main event: The Elite 8 Console Bracket. John and Ryan pit generations of iconic hardwareâfrom the SNES and Sega Genesis to the PS2, Xbox 360, and PS3âagainst each other in a heated showdown to determine which system truly defined gaming greatness. Expect nostalgia, debate, and a few upsets.
To wrap things up, the Inflation Deflation Challenge returns with a retro twist as the guys revisit Yo! Noid on the NES. Is this Dominoâsâmascot platformer a hidden gem or a relic priced purely on novelty? They break down gameplay, collectability, and current market value.
00:00 Introduction and Overview02:30 Elite Eight Bracket Breakdown05:24 Game Pickups and Board Games08:28 Current Gaming Experiences11:31 Nintendo Switch 2 Production Insights14:17 Epic Games Layoffs and Future Directions29:42 Navigating Layoffs and Severance Packages31:14 The Evolution of Fortnite and Gaming Trends32:04 The Rise and Fall of Live Service Games32:45 Marathon's Performance and Industry Impact35:03 Elite Eight: Gaming Console Showdown Begins35:26 Super Nintendo vs. Sega Genesis: A Classic Rivalry36:47 PS1 vs. N64: The Battle of Generations51:19 PS2 vs. GameCube: The Console Wars Continue59:44 PS3 vs. Xbox 360: The Final Showdown01:07:23 Battery Life and Controller Convenience01:08:42 User Interface Evolution in Gaming01:10:07 Console Showdown: PS1 vs. Super Nintendo01:10:58 Nostalgia and Cultural Impact of Gaming01:14:10 Backwards Compatibility and Console Legacy01:16:54 Game Review: Yonoid and Its Challenges01:23:06 Final Thoughts and Future Themes01:28:40 Outro Video
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflatorsFacebook - www.facebook.com/TheGameDeflatorsInstagram - www.instagram.com/thegamedeflators
The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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Gaming chaos, industry backlash, stock drops, and a wild expo recap. The Game Deflators podcast tackles the biggest stories of the week and review the cult classic Pepsiman on PS1.
The Game Deflators open this weekâs episode with Johnâs full recap of Game On Expo, covering standout booths, retro surprises, and the moments that made this yearâs event worth the trip.
The discussion moves into one of the strangest headlines of the week as the FBI begins investigating several Steam titles for malware. John and Ryan break down what this means for PC players and the growing concerns around storefront security.
Nintendo steps into the conversation next with its limited Dreamlight Valley themed Switch console, a release that has caught the attention of collectors and fans alike.
Magic the Gathering players are frustrated once again as another Secret Lair drop is instantly scooped up by scalpers. The guys explore the ongoing tension between premium releases, collector expectations, and community fatigue.
The team then examines the fallout surrounding Crimson Desert. Early reviews triggered a sharp 30 percent drop in the developerâs stock, and the discussion centers on what may have caused such a dramatic reaction.
Nvidia faces its own wave of criticism as players push back on DLSS 5. John and Ryan look at the concerns around performance expectations and why the community feels the tech is heading in the wrong direction.
To close out the episode, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week features Pepsiman on the PS1. The guys revisit the soda fueled cult classic to decide whether its current market value is justified.
Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview02:26 Inflation Deflation Challenge and Game Picks05:21 Discussion on Lord of the Rings and Related Media08:21 Game On Expo Experience and Indie Game Highlights11:06 Dungeons and Dragons Campaign Adventures14:13 Current Gaming Experiences and Upcoming Events17:19 Resident Evil 9 Gameplay and Impressions20:19 Fast News and Industry Updates33:57 The Excitement of New Decks39:20 The Scalping Controversy44:01 Exploring Alternative Deck Formats47:36 Casual Play vs. Competitive Play48:20 Crimson Desert's Mixed Reception55:28 Nvidia's DLSS5 and Artistic Integrity01:07:39 Pepsi Man: A Cult Classic Game01:13:33 Outro
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflatorsFacebook - www.facebook.com/TheGameDeflatorsInstagram - www.instagram.com/thegamedeflators
The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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From Sonyâs dynamic pricing drama to Xboxâs Project Helix and a heated consoleâwar showdown, The Game Deflators tackle the weekâs biggest gaming battles.
This week on The Game Deflators, John and Ryan bring a mix of pickups, industry news, rumors, and retro gaming heat.
The episode kicks off with recent game pickups and collectible finds, including some unexpected retro scores and additions to the shelf. From there, the guys dive into their current gaming sessions, sharing progress updates and the titles that have been dominating their playtime.
The conversation shifts into Lego and gaming crossovers, including the newly surfaced Mario miniature and the rumored Lego PlayStation 1 set that has collectors buzzing. Whether itâs legit or just another internet fever dream, the guys break down why this rumor has so much traction.
Next, the crew turns to Microsoftâs nextâgeneration Xbox initiative, Project Helix. Rather than dissecting technical specs, John and Ryan focus on the broader implications â how Helix fits into Microsoftâs evolving ecosystem strategy, what it signals for the future of Xbox hardware, and why the industry is paying close attention.
That naturally leads into a spirited discussion on the Console Wars, comparing the shifting dynamics between Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam. With each platform carving out a different identity, the guys explore where the competition is heating up and where the lines are starting to blur.
The episode then pivots to Sonyâs newly uncovered dynamic pricing tests, where PlayStation Store users across multiple regions are seeing different prices for the same games. The hosts unpack what this A/B testing could mean for digital storefronts, consumer trust, and the future of game pricing.
Finally, the Inflation Deflation Challenge returns with a look at Cool Spot, the 7UP mascot platformer thatâs equal parts nostalgia and oddity. John and Ryan revisit the gameâs charm, gameplay, and current market value to determine whether this retro collectible is inflating or deflating in todayâs market.
00:00 Intro02:28 Recent Game Pickups and Collectibles12:11 Current Gaming Sessions and Progress17:52 Lego and Gaming Updates: Mario Miniature and LEgo PS127:15 Microsoft's Next Generation Xbox Insights30:09 The Console Wars: Xbox vs. PlayStation vs. Steam35:24 Sony Dynamic Pricing in Gaming: A New Approach49:35 Inflation Deflation Challenge: Cool Spot Review
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflatorsFacebook - www.facebook.com/TheGameDeflatorsInstagram - www.instagram.com/thegamedeflators
The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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John and Ryan open the episode with their latest game pickups. Ryan is currently playing Resident Evil Requiem and shares his initial thoughts on the atmosphere, pacing, and early gameplay feel. John, meanwhile, continues his play of Valkyrie Profile.
Ryan also brings updates from his ongoing grind in Guilty Gear Strive, talking about fundamentals, improvement, and the competitive mindset. That leads into a look at the fighting game community as he prepares for an upcoming event in Seattle and reflects on the energy of inâperson tournaments.
John shifts the discussion to Magic: The Gathering, breaking down the latest Universes Beyond release and why the TMNT crossover is struggling to gain traction. From there, the guys explore the downfall of High Guard, the launch of Marathon, and what these releases reveal about current industry trends.
The future of Xbox takes the spotlight as they discuss Project Helix and how it could shape Microsoftâs longâterm strategy. They also recap the biggest highlights from PokĂ©mon Day, including new releases and updates worth watching.
The episode continues with a look at Sonyâs evolving PC porting strategy before wrapping up with the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week. This weekâs pick is McDonaldâs Treasure Land Adventures, as the guys revisit the Sega Genesis platformer and debate its place in todayâs retro market.
00:00 Introduction to the Game Deflators Podcast01:19 Recent Game Pickups and Current Playthroughs08:47 Resident Evil Requiem: Gameplay Dynamics and Mechanics14:50 Plucky Squire: Game Completion and Future Plans19:51 Striving for Excellence in Guilty Gear Strive26:46 Magic: The Gathering and Universes Beyond31:40 High Guard's Demise and Industry Insights36:27 Marathon's Launch and Player Reception42:28 Project Helix and the Future of Xbox44:22 Pokemon Day Highlights and New Releases54:55 Sony's Shift in Game Porting Strategy01:01:21 The Legacy of McDonald's Treasure Land Adventures
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflatorsFacebook - www.facebook.com/TheGameDeflatorsInstagram - www.instagram.com/thegamedeflators
The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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In this episode of the Game Deflators podcast, hosts John and Ryan recap their latest gaming sessions before diving into the major leadership shakeâups happening at Microsoftâs gaming division. With longtime Xbox chief Phil Spencer stepping down and former CoreAI executive Asha Sharma taking over as the new CEO of Microsoft Gaming, the hosts explore what this transition could mean for Xboxâs longâterm direction. They also touch on the departure of Sarah Bond and the broader restructuring that has reshaped the upper ranks of the Xbox organization, a shift that has drawn significant attention across the industry.
The conversation connects these changes to ongoing challenges in the fightingâgame genre and how shifting leadership priorities might influence future platform strategy, content pipelines, and studio support. The episode wraps with a review of the Rambo NES game and a preview of their upcoming foodâthemed gaming month.
Chapters00:00 Introduction and Gaming Pickups06:21 Current Games and Anime Recommendations12:08 Discussion on Marathon and Gaming Trends17:59 Fighting Game Strategies and Progress22:19 AI in Gaming Reviews and Industry Changes28:05 Microsoft's Leadership Changes and Future Directions35:47 The Future of Xbox and AI Integration42:41 Fighting Games: Challenges and Opportunities50:45 Rambo: The NES Game Review58:29 Food Month: Upcoming Game Themes
Find us on TheGameDeflators.com
Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflatorsFacebook - www.facebook.com/TheGameDeflatorsInstagram - www.instagram.com/thegamedeflators
The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.
Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
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