Arcade Couch
Nintendo Direct
Episodes
Monday Sep 15, 2025
Nintendo Direct September 2025 – Full Recap & Impressions
Monday Sep 15, 2025
Monday Sep 15, 2025
We discuss the September 2025 Nintendo Direct & Ciaran also gives his impressions on Borderlands 4.
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The Nintendo Direct showcased exciting new titles and updates.
The Super Mario Galaxy movie is set to release in April 2026.
Mario Tennis Fever aims to address past complaints with new features.
Super Mario Wonder will receive additional content for the Switch 2.
Yoshi's new adventure promises a unique storybook aesthetic.
Indie games like Dinkum are making their way to the Switch.
Hades II is a highly anticipated sequel with a console-exclusive window.
The gaming community is buzzing about potential Game of the Year candidates.
The hosts express their excitement for upcoming releases and nostalgia for classic titles.
The conversation reflects a vibrant gaming culture and community engagement. Hyrule Wars is set to release on November 6.
Dragon Quest 7 remake looks significantly better than the original.
The Virtual Boy was a commercial failure, but is being revived.
Nintendo Switch 2 introduces new features for existing games.
Fans highly anticipate Power Wash Simulator 2.
Metroid Prime 4 is finally releasing on December 4.
Donkey Kong Bonanza DLC offers new gameplay experiences.
Pokémon Pokopia allows players to experience life as a Ditto.
Danganronpa 2 remaster includes new scenarios and gameplay elements.
Borderlands 4 has optimisation issues, but retains core gameplay.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
Nintendo Direct September 2025 – Every Game and Reveal - Explosion Network
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
All Episodes:
https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/
Support Us:
http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion
Monday Aug 04, 2025
Nintendo Partner Direct + THQ Nordic 2025 – What Stood Out?
Monday Aug 04, 2025
Monday Aug 04, 2025
Dylan and Ashley discuss the THQ Nordic Showcase and the Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase, both of which aired in the last week, delivering new updates and game reveals.
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The hosts share their excitement for upcoming video game showcases.
PAX preparations are discussed, highlighting early planning and travel logistics.
THQ Nordic's showcase featured a variety of new game announcements and trailers.
The Nintendo Direct was perceived as underwhelming compared to THQ Nordic's showcase.
Battlefield 6's multiplayer reveal sparked cautious optimism among fans.
The PAX 2025 Indie Showcase winners showcased a diverse range of innovative games.
Trivia Deal stood out as a unique concept among the indie games.
The hosts reflect on the nostalgia factor in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 Plus 4.
The importance of community and social interaction in gaming is emphasised.
The episode wraps up with a call to action for listener engagement.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Episode Timecodes
00:00:00 - Hello00:01:15 - This Week On The Show00:03:50 - THQ Nordic Showcase Recap00:23:45 - Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase Recap00:33:00 - Battlefield 6 Multiplayer Reveal00:39:30 - PAX AUS Indie Showcase 2025 Winners00:47:15 - Goodbye
Resources
Everything Announced at the THQ Nordic 2025 Showcase - Explosion Network
Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025: All Trailers & Announcements - Explosion Network
Battlefield 6 Multiplayer Reveal Highlights Return of Classic Class System & Destruction - Explosion Network
PAX AUS 2025 Indie Showcase Winners Announced - Explosion Network
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 Review - Explosion Network
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
All Episodes:
https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/
Support Us:
http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion
Monday Jun 23, 2025
Monday Jun 23, 2025
Dylan and Ashley discuss their excitement for the upcoming Donkey Kong Bananza. They also touch on the FBC: Firebreak game and the lack of support for Beat Saber on PS VR2, reflecting on the state of VR gaming.
Show Dot Points
The anticipation for Death Stranding 2 is high among gamers.
The Nintendo Switch 2 remains a popular console, offering engaging games.
Donkey Kong Bananza promises to be a significant 3D platformer.
Gameplay mechanics in Donkey Kong include character transformations and co-op elements.
The narrative of Donkey Kong is being redefined in the new game.
Exploration and challenges are key components of the gameplay experience.
Co-op gameplay allows for unique character interactions and strategies.
FBC Firebreak offers a different take on the Control universe with co-op missions.
The lack of updates for Beat Saber on PSVR raises concerns about the platform's future.
The gaming community is eager for more diverse and engaging virtual reality (VR) experiences.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
Resources
Young Pauline Joins the Adventure in Donkey Kong Bananza - Explosion Network
Support for Beat Saber on PS4 and PS5 ends, shining a light on PSVR2's lack of success | Eurogamer.net
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
All Episodes:
https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/
Support Us:
http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

Monday Apr 07, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Review: Price, Launch Date & More
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Dylan & Ashley break down all the details from the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal, including price, games and more.
Show Dot Points
The Minecraft movie has become a surprising box office success despite mixed reviews.
Nintendo's recent reveal of the Switch 2 has generated significant excitement and discussion.
The Switch 2 aims to improve third-party support, which has been a challenge for Nintendo in the past.
The presentation for the Switch 2 was well-received, highlighting key features like better graphics and performance.
Joy-Con innovations include magnetic features and improved button designs for better gameplay.
The addition of a camera and microphone in the Switch 2 raises questions about privacy and functionality.
Pricing for the Switch 2 is higher than expected, reflecting market conditions and production costs.
The political climate in the US is impacting pre-orders and pricing strategies for the Switch 2.
The conversation highlights the competitive landscape of handheld gaming consoles.
Overall, the discussion reflects a mix of optimism and skepticism about the future of Nintendo and its new console. PlayStation stock prices are stable but not expected to rise soon.
Importing games from Japan can be cheaper than buying locally.
Switch two pre-orders may see a decline due to price increases.
Nintendo has prepared for the Switch 2 launch for a long time.
The launch lineup includes several notable titles, but not all are original.
Game sharing on the Switch 2 could change multiplayer dynamics.
Digital games may be priced lower than physical copies.
GameCube games will be exclusive to the Switch 2.
The hosts express skepticism about the effectiveness of past games running better on new hardware.
Mario Kart World is highlighted as a must-have title for the Switch 2.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
All Episodes:
https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/
Support Us:
http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

Monday Mar 31, 2025
The Final Nintendo Direct for the Switch, Probably
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Just as we’re all ready for the Nintendo Switch 2 Reveal Direct, Nintendo hit us with one more Nintendo Direct for the Switch (1?). Join Ashley and Dylan as they share their thoughts on the Direct, give their final predictions for the Nintendo Switch 2 and rejoice in the return of Game Informer.
Hosts:Ashley Hobley: https://bsky.app/profile/ashleyhobley.bsky.social Dylan Blight: https://bsky.app/profile/dylan.explosionnetwork.com
Episode Timecodes00:00:00 - Hello00:00:50 - PAX AUS tickets are available now!00:01:47 - Dylan’s first impressions of Assassin’s Creed Shadows 00:13:27 - Final Nintendo Switch 2 predictions00:21:16 - Everything from the March 2025 Nintendo Direct00:49:44 - The Live-Action ‘The Legend of Zelda’ Movie Gets a Release Date00:51:24 - Ubisoft is Forming a New Subsidiary With Tencent00:58:09 - Game Informer Returns With A Sketchy Backer01:03:41 - Silent Hill f Was Not Refused Classification00:48:24 - Goodbye
Resources:The Gamer
Game Informer's Return Is A Huge Win For Gamers, But At What Cost?
Gameshub
Nintendo Direct March 2025 – Every big game announcement
Silent Hill f hasn't been refused classification in Australia, says ACB
Insider Gaming
Ubisoft is Forming a New Subsidiary With Tencent, Valued at $4.3 Billion
Press-Start
The Legend Of Zelda Movie Just Got A Release Date
Arcade Couch Credits:Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesAll Episodes:https://arcadecouch.podbean.com/ Support Us:http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

Monday Sep 02, 2024
Star Wars Outlaws Review & Deadlock Impressions
Monday Sep 02, 2024
Monday Sep 02, 2024
We discuss Star Wars Outlaws and Deadlock, the newest game from Valve!
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Deadlock is praised for its MOBA elements and character variety
Star Wars: Outlaws receives criticism for its lackluster narrative and repetitive missions
The hosts express disappointment with Star Wars: Outlaws and rate it around 5.5 out of 10 Star Wars: Hunters has frustrating mechanics, including inconsistent enemy AI and confusing level design.
The Nintendo Direct announcements include a variety of upcoming game releases and updates.
The new trailer for Sonic the Hedgehog 2 generates excitement and showcases the interplay between Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles. The Sonic 2 spoiler cast on What Do Want To Watch was the most donated episode last month.
The updated Zelda timeline places Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom on separate timelines, which has sparked debate among fans.
The Nintendo Live event had some logistical issues, but attendees still had a good time.
Annapurna has acquired the film and TV rights for Control and Alan Wake in a partnership with Remedy Entertainment.
Emio the Smiling Man is a visual novel game on the Switch that features a creepy villain and engaging gameplay.
Arco is a pixel art isometric game set in Latin America in the late 1800s, where players control indigenous characters fighting against bandits.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
Star Wars Outlaws players told to restart game offered cosmetic ship trinket by Ubisoft as apology | Eurogamer.net
Everything Announced At The August Double Nintendo Direct
The First Sonic 3 Movie Trailer Shows Off Keanu Reeves As Shadow And Double The Jim Carrey
A New Zelda Timeline Confirms That BOTW And TOTK Exist On A Different Timeline To The Rest Of The Games
Alan Wake and Control film and television rights acquired by Annapurna | Eurogamer.net
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
All Episodes:
https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/
Support Us:
http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

Monday Jun 24, 2024
Nintendo Direct Sets Up A Solid Second Half Of 2024 For Switch Owners
Monday Jun 24, 2024
Monday Jun 24, 2024
We break down the June 2024 Nintendo Direct and all the news from the showcase.
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The hosts discuss the highly anticipated release of Elden Ring and the mixed opinions surrounding its difficulty.
They speculate about the upcoming Nintendo Switch successor and its impact on the current console's game releases.
The hosts review the games featured in the Nintendo Direct, sharing their thoughts on each title.
Dragon Quest 3 HD 2D remake was announced, along with remakes of Dragon Quest 1 and 2, allowing players to play the story in chronological order.
Funko Pop! game is a sandbox game where players can play various pop culture characters.
Nintendo Switch Online added GBA games and announced a mature expansion for Nintendo 64 games.
Metal Slug Attack Reload is a tower defence game available on the Switch.
Darkest Dungeon 2 is a sequel to the original game with a different setting.
Marvel vs Capcom Fighting Collection Archive Classics includes several classic fighting games.
Super Mario Party Jamboree is touted as the biggest Mario Party game yet. The hosts expressed their desire for online multiplayer in future Mario Party games.
The announcement of The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, where players can finally play as Zelda, generated excitement. The gameplay mechanics of the game, particularly the copying feature, were discussed.
Other games such as Just Dance 2025, Lego Horizon, and Romancing Saga 2 were briefly mentioned.
The hosts speculated about the release of Metroid Prime 4 on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
All Episodes:
https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/
Support Us:
http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

Monday Feb 26, 2024
First Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase reveals Xbox games, but also Mickey!
Monday Feb 26, 2024
Monday Feb 26, 2024
We break down the first Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase of 20224 and talk about the reviews for Final Fantasy VII Rebirth.
Show Dot Points
The Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack offers classic rare games to subscribers.
The Borderlands movie trailer has received mixed reactions.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has received positive reviews, with some divisive opinions on the ending.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
Episode Timecodes
INTRO00:00:00 - Hello00:00:57 - Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase00:25:05 - Borderlands Movie Trailer00:29:10 - World of Tanks Giveaway00:30:04 - Koality Critics: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth00:35:24 - Goodbye
Resources
Everything announced and all the trailers from the February 2024 Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase - Explosion Network
The First Full Borderlands Movie Trailer Has Arrived And It Looks Suitably Ridiculous
Competition: We're giving away X5 World of Tanks Modern Armor 10th anniversary bundle codes worth $90 - Explosion Network
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
All Episodes:
https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/
Support Us:
http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion