Arcade Couch

Leaks of GTA VI have dominated the news this week, with fans debating whether they are justified and if they actually help any cause. Plus, Horizon Hunters Gathering is going back to the drawing board, and we now have a new Kratos.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
EPISODE TIMECODES
00:00:00 - Intro00:00:36 - GTA VI Leaks Keep Coming00:08:25 - GTA VI Extended Look Expectations00:22:40 - Horizon Hunters Gathering Getting Rebooted00:28:44 - Batista is Kratos00:33:39 - Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2 is coming in October00:35:55 - Riot is ending development of 2XKO00:33:39 - Opening Night Live Expectations00:46:34 - Goodbye
Resources
Is this the end of the GTA 6 leaks? Take-Two's legal crusade appears to shut down the hubs behind them | Eurogamer.net 
PlayStation Reportedly Reboots Horizon Multiplayer Spinoff Following Negative Feedback 
Dave Bautista Officially Set as Kratos in 'God of War' TV Series 
The second season of Netflix's Cyberpunk Edgerunners anime releases this year | Eurogamer.net 
Riot Games to end LoL fighting game 2XK0's development and issue refunds, less than a year since launch | Eurogamer.net
Gamescom 2026: Geoff Keighley and organizers reveal what to expect from gaming’s biggest event | VGC Eurogamer.net
CREDITS
🎵 Music: Dylan Blight
🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay
👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

Kingdom Hearts 4 is coming a lot sooner than we thought it would, and there's an anime coming as well. Plus, Dylan dives into his thoughts on Star Wars Zero Company.
SHOW DOT POINTS
The Kingdom Hearts anime is expected to be vital for the lore.
Star Wars Eclipse has faced significant development issues.
The hosts express scepticism about the release of Star Wars Eclipse.
Kingdom Hearts 4 is set to include Pixar's Coco as a world.
The gameplay of Kingdom Hearts 4 looks visually stunning and engaging.
The hosts discuss the potential for new Disney worlds in Kingdom Hearts 4.
Coco is seen as a fitting addition to the Kingdom Hearts universe.
The conversation reflects on the convoluted nature of Kingdom Hearts lore.
The hosts debate whether the anime will cater to new fans or existing ones.
There is excitement about the future of the Kingdom Hearts franchise. Sora's journey in Kingdom Hearts could be more engaging if separated from his companions.
Ghost of Tsushima is expanding with new content, including a narrative expansion and survival mode.
PlayStation's release strategy seems focused on filling gaps in its lineup.
Community reactions to the Wolverine game highlight concerns about its gameplay mechanics.
EB Games is entering the trading card market, but the value proposition for players is questionable.
Netflix's gaming strategy is facing challenges, leading to the closure of Night School Studio.
The Australian Classification Board's decision to ban Halloween: The Game raises questions about censorship.
The gaming community often reacts strongly to changes in beloved franchises.
There are opportunities for players to capitalise on EB Games' trading card initiative.
The conversation reflects ongoing frustrations with the gaming industry's regulatory landscape. The need for humour in gaming discussions.
Pro Jank Footy offers chaotic fun with power-ups.
Gameplay mechanics can significantly affect player experience.
Star Wars XCOM combines tactical gameplay with narrative depth.
Character dynamics play a crucial role in storytelling.
Anticipation for upcoming games can create excitement.
Local co-op gaming enhances the fun factor.
Game mechanics should allow for player customisation.
The balance of challenge and accessibility is important in games.
Unique humour can set a game apart from others.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
RESOURCES
Ghost Of Yotei Is Getting A Story Expansion, New Roguelike Mode And A Complete Edition
EB Games Is Now Officially Buying Single Trading Cards At More Stores With A Cool New Card Reader
Netflix Has Shut Down Oxenfree Developer Night School Studio
Here's Even More Info About Why Halloween The Game Was Banned And Exactly When It Happened
Star Wars Zero Company Preview – Tactical Combat With A Big Star Wars Story - Explosion Network
Wild Blue Skies Review - Explosion Network
Agent 64: Spies Never Die Review - Explosion Network
CREDITS
🎵 Music: Dylan Blight
🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay
🎨 Artwork: Explosion Network
📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM
👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

We discuss the news that GTA 6 will be getting a deep dive on Netflix, age verification being required on consoles, and Dylan discusses two games he's been playing: Dosa Divas and Yoshi & The Mysterious Book.
SHOW DOT POINTS
There were two showcases this week, neither of which we'll be talking about.
Marvel Token Fighting Soul suffers from widespread PC issues at launch.
Aussies will now have to age-verify to play R18 games on Xbox.
This age verification is a response to Australian regulations.
GTA VI gameplay reveal is coming to Netflix at the end of the month.
Netflix is leaning into event moments to attract viewers.
The gaming community is fickle and may refund games due to issues.
Age verification aims to protect children from inappropriate content.
The reveal of GTA VI is highly anticipated and could draw new subscribers to Netflix.
Streaming platforms are changing how game reveals are conducted. Take-Two's CEO emphasises the shift to digital media.
GTA VI's success is anticipated based on pre-launch metrics.
The debate between digital and physical media continues to evolve.
Physical editions may still have a place for collectors.
Pricing strategies in gaming are influenced by digital sales.
Yoshi's new game targets a younger audience with its design.
Dosa Divas explores themes of family and corporate influence.
The art style of Yoshi's game is less distinct than previous titles.
Game mechanics in Dosa Divas include turn-based combat and cooking.
The hosts express excitement for the future of gaming despite challenges.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
RESOURCES
Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls suffers from widespread PC issues at launch | Eurogamer.net
Aussies Will Now Have To Age Verify To Play R18+ Games On Xbox Series X/PC
An Extended Look At Grand Theft Auto 6 Gameplay Is Coming To Netflix And Here's All The Aussie Times
Take-Two's CEO Won't Rule Out Grand Theft Auto 6 On Disc But Says Discs Don't Make Sense Anymore
CREDITS
🎵 Music: Dylan Blight
🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay
🎨 Artwork: Explosion Network
📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM
👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORKListen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

Dylan, Ashley, and Ciaran have been playing Big Walk together and discussing getting lost, solving puzzles, and sharing tips for the adventure. They also talk about Tears of Metal, the announcement of Final Fantasy XIV Evercold, and Halo now being on PS5.
SHOW DOT POINTS
The Big Walk is a co-op puzzle adventure game.
Communication is essential for success in the game.
Choosing bright character colours can help avoid getting lost.
The game features a unique audio design that enhances gameplay.
Players often find themselves getting lost, adding to the fun.
Team dynamics play a crucial role in solving puzzles.
Community engagement can enhance the gaming experience.
In-game communication is more immersive than using external chat.
The game is designed for larger groups to maximise enjoyment.
Items like walkie-talkies and light sources are vital for navigation. The Evercold expansion for Final Fantasy XIV is highly anticipated.
Players are returning to Final Fantasy XIV with excitement for new content.
The addition of a butt slider in character customisation is a notable feature.
Final Fantasy XIV has a strong community that supports new players.
Marvel's Wolverine is ranked as the top upcoming game by the hosts.
February 2024 is packed with major game releases, creating a competitive environment.
The OST of Tears of Metal is a standout feature of the game.
League of Legends Classic appeals to nostalgia for long-time players.
The subscription system for Final Fantasy XIV remains complicated.
Tears of Metal is a promising early access game with potential for growth.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
RESOURCES
Everything Announced At The Final Fantasy XIV Fan Festival Berlin Keynote - Explosion Network
Ranking Every Major Video Game Releasing In September And October 2026 - Explosion Network
Here's Every PlayStation Plus Monthly Game For August 2026 - Explosion Network
Halo: Campaign Evolved Australian Review Roundup – Koalaty Critics - 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

We discuss God of War: Laufey's release date and the future of Kratos, and Dylan shares his impressions of Splatoon Raiders.
SHOW DOT POINTS
Dylan enjoys playing Splatoon Raiders, appreciating its narrative elements.
The game features a mix of single-player and multiplayer modes.
Players can upgrade weapons and abilities throughout the game.
The bond meter with AI companions adds a new layer to gameplay.
Dylan finds the core shooting mechanics familiar yet engaging.
The game runs smoothly on the Nintendo Switch at 60 frames per second.
The story involves a mystical fog and treasure hunting.
Dylan notes some levels feel repetitive in design.
The music is enjoyable but could use more variety.
The game could serve as an entry point for new players to the Splatoon franchise. August is a promising month for Australian game releases.
Marvel Token Fighting Souls is generating significant interest.
The hosts express mixed feelings about the pacing of the game's story mode.
Visuals and character designs in Marvel Token Fighting Souls are praised.
The gameplay feels a bit sluggish, impacting the overall experience.
Blocking mechanics in the game seem inconsistent.
The game offers various modes for training and casual play.
Fog Piercer is a unique tactical roguelike deck-building game.
The hosts are casual gamers, providing a different perspective on fighting games.
There's a blend of excitement and scepticism about the new titles.
YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley
RESOURCES
God of War: Laufey finally gets a release date - here's when you'll be able to play it
What Video Games Are Coming Out in August 2026? - Explosion Network
PlayStation Network down, as tens of thousands of players queue to play Marvel Tokon Fighting Souls newly-launched beta | Eurogamer.net
Fogpiercer 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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