Arcade Couch

What’s Next for Fallout? Bethesda, Starfield & The Future of Xbox | Arcade Couch

We discuss Bethesda's plans for the future of Fallout, The Elder Scrolls and more, as well as the devastating news for the upcoming God of War TV series.
SHOW DOT POINTS
The gaming industry is experiencing a shift with fewer new titles being released.
Bethesda is focusing on expanding its existing franchises, such as Fallout and Starfield.
Remasters of classic games are becoming more common as studios seek to capitalise on nostalgia.
Fallout 5 is a long-term goal for Bethesda, with multiple projects in development.
Fallout Shelter remains popular, with plans for a television adaptation.
Live-action adaptations of video games face significant challenges, including casting issues.
The success of remasters can be influenced by the performance of previous titles in the franchise.
The gaming community is eager for new content, but many are also nostalgic for older games.
Game reviews highlight the creativity and uniqueness of new titles in the market.
The hosts encourage listener engagement and feedback for future episodes.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
RESOURCES
A NOTE FROM BETHESDA GAME STUDIOS
The live-action God of War TV series suffers a huge setback as Kratos actor is injured badly on set and needs to be recast | Eurogamer.net
Denshattack! Review - 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

Is Physical Gaming Dying? Xbox Layoffs & Black Flag Remake Discussion | Arcade Couch

We react to the Instagram comments about Ciaran's comments on last week's episode, discuss the Xbox layoffs and talk about AC: Black Flag.
SHOW DOT POINTS
Dylan returns after a two-week break, sparking banter.
The gaming industry is facing more negative news.
Social media reactions to Kieran's comments are intense.
Consumers are upset about corporate control in gaming.
Companies prioritise profit over consumer interests.
The gaming industry struggles with sustainability and layoffs.
Physical media is becoming obsolete in gaming.
Video game conservation is a growing concern.
Consumer behaviour affects game sales and studio viability.
The transition to digital media is inevitable and controversial. Limited-run physical editions may not work for games.
Gamers often justify their digital purchases with physical purchases.
Microtransactions have been a part of gaming for years.
Single-player games with microtransactions shouldn't affect others.
Xbox's restructuring reflects a broader industry trend.
Layoffs are painful but sometimes necessary for survival.
The gaming industry may see fewer AAA titles in the future.
The quality of games may decline as budgets increase.
IO Interactive is refocusing on core titles after losing funding.
The Black Flag remake offers a fresh experience for new players.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
RESOURCES
Microsoft announces 3200 layoffs and four studio departures in "most significant" Xbox restructuring in history | Eurogamer.net
IO Interactive regains full ownership of Project Fantasy following end of Xbox deal, shuts down Istanbul studio and lays off developers "to find a new balance" | Eurogamer.net
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

Playstation Discontinuing Physical Media: Tragedy or Overblow? | Arcade Couch

Sony dropped a grenade on the video games industry with the announcement that they will cease making physical discs at the start of 2028. Is this a monumental shift in gaming as we know it or just an overblown bump in an evolving medium?
SHOW DOT POINTS
Sony is ending physical disc production in 2028
Impact of digital-only releases on consumers and preservation
Industry layoffs and studio closures at Xbox studios
The future of game ownership and piracy
Potential industry crash and market shifts
Upcoming game adaptations and industry trends
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
RESOURCES
PlayStation announces it will end physical disc production in 2028, and nobody is happy | ScreenHub: Film, TV, Streaming and Games 
Sony has already started repurposing its lone PlayStation disc factory, and the body of physical gaming isn't even cold 
PS5 fans flock to piracy as Sony plans to ditch physical games
An update on PlayStation Store for PS3 and PS Vita 
007 First Light developer faces layoffs after Xbox pulls support for upcoming fantasy game
Xbox reportedly stops signing third-party Game Pass deals | Eurogamer.net
‘Persona’ Live-Action TV Adaptation in the Works at Netflix, 21 Laps & Story Kitchen to Produce (EXCLUSIVE)
Xbox reportedly stops signing third-party Game Pass deals | Eurogamer.net
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

GTA VI No Disc Drama and Rising Prices Continue | Arcade Couch

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.
SHOW DOT POINTS
GTA 6 pricing and digital release strategy
The decline of physical game media
Bungie layoffs and studio restructuring
Upcoming game releases in July 2026
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
RESOURCES
Grand Theft Auto 6's Physical Editions Won't Include A Disc
Rockstar Games Has No Plans for GTA 6 Physical Disc Version, Says Report 
Here's The Aussie Grand Theft Auto 6 Prices
Grand Theft Auto 6 Is A Single Player Experience With No Online Multiplayer 
Bungie Has Been Hit By Significant Layoffs From The Destiny And Marathon Teams
Xbox Series X|S Consoles Just Got Another Massive Price Increase
What 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

Xbox Studio Closures, Double Fine & Ninja Theory Concerns + GTA VI Cover Reveal | Arcade Couch

We discuss Xbox reportedly closing several of its studios, and what it did wrong to get to this point.
SHOW DOT POINTS
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
RESOURCES
Xbox Is Reportedly About To Shut Down South Of Midnight Studio Compulsion Games Alongside Other Studios
The Grand Theft Auto 6 Pre-Order Date And Cover Art Have Been Revealed
Lost Castle 2 Review - 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

Did Xbox Win Summer Game Fest? Nintendo Direct & Xbox Showcase Reactions | Arcade Couch

We discuss the Xbox Games Showcase and the Nintendo Direct that were part of Summer Game Fest 2026 week.
SHOW DOT POINTS
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

Summer Games Fest 2026 and Playstation State of Play Recap | Arcade Couch

We recap Summer Game Fest and the PlayStation State of Play.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
EPISODE TIMECODES
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:25 - Summer Games Fest Recap
00:58:20 - PlayStation State of Play Recap
01:33:11 - Outro
RESOURCES
Everything Announced At Summer Game Fest 2026 - Explosion Network 
Everything Announced During PlayStation’s Massive June 2026 State Of Play - 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

Summer Game Fest 2026 Predictions: Elder Scrolls VI, Resident Evil & More | Arcade Couch

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

Destiny 2’s Future, PlayStation State of Play Predictions & Forza Horizon 6 Impressions | Arcade Couch

We discuss Destiny's future, GTA VI release date, and Ciaran has impressions of Forza Horizon 6.
SHOW DOT POINTS
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
RESOURCES
After numerous delays, new GTA 6 pre-order leaks suggest November release date finally locked in, and further delays unlikely
Xbox is now XBOX, apparently | Eurogamer.net
Xbox hires analyst who said games were losing the attention battle with gambling, crypto and porn as chief strategy officer in another leadership revamp | Eurogamer.net
A 60+ Minute PlayStation State Of Play Has Been Revealed And Here's All The Aussie Times
Bungie Is Ending Support For Destiny 2 To Focus On New Projects
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

Mixtape and Subnautica 2 Impressions | Arcade Couch

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 TIMECODES
00:00:00 - 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

Stranger Than Heaven Breakdown, GTA 6 Marketing & Star Fox Remake | Arcade Couch

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
RESOURCES
GTA 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.net
Star Fox Has Been Revealed And It's A Star Fox 64 Remake
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

Saros Impressions, Resident Evil Movie News & Blood of Dawnwalker Release Date | Arcade Couch

Dylan shares his impressions of Saros so far and discusses the latest gaming news and upcoming releases for May 2026 with Ashley.
SHOW DOT POINTS
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 
RESOURCES
Dark fantasy vampire RPG The Blood of Dawnwalker gets a release date and an autumn showdown with Fable | Eurogamer.net
https://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 For
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