PlayStation 6 Already?! Breaking Down the Leak + September Games

There are rumours of the PlayStation 6 behind a handheld/hybrid console. Are we really ready to start talking about the next generation of consoles already?
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September is shaping up to be a big month for gaming.
The PlayStation 6 portable is rumoured to be more powerful than the PS5.
There is a perceived lack of standout titles for the PS5 generation.
Game development timelines have stretched significantly in recent years.
Hollow Knight: Silksong's release has caused a ripple effect in the gaming industry.
Indie developers face challenges when major titles are released.
The identity of PlayStation consoles is in question with the PS5.
The gaming landscape is influenced by external factors like tariffs and market conditions.
There is a need for new IPs in the current gaming generation.
The anticipation for upcoming titles is high, but the release schedule is crowded. Indie games face tough competition in a crowded market.
Skate's early access model raises questions about monetisation.
September 2023 is packed with exciting game releases.
Hollow Knight: Silksong is highly anticipated by fans.
EA's history suggests potential microtransactions in Skate.
The gaming community is eager for the return of beloved franchises.
Personal preferences play a significant role in gaming excitement.
Curiosity about new titles can lead to mixed expectations.
The hosts share a light-hearted banter about gaming habits.
The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of video games.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
A PlayStation 6 Portable Is Apparently On The Way With More Base Power Than A PS5 When Docked
Hollow Knight: Silksong September Launch Shakes Up Indie Game Schedule - Explosion Network
EA’s Skate Early Access Launches September 16 on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox - Explosion Network
What Video Games Are Coming Out in September 2025? - 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

Contraband Cancelled: Another Xbox Exclusive Bites the Dust!

Xbox has cancelled another game, and we discuss if anyone remembers Contraband. Plus, there are rumours for the Xbox ROG Ally release date, which could lead to the same for Hollow Knight: Silksong.
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The anticipation for GTA 6 is palpable among gamers.
Hollow Knight: Silksong continues to be a hot topic.
The distribution of review codes often controls game reviews.
Nintendo Indie World showcases a variety of indie games.
The cancellation of Contraband raises questions about Xbox's strategy.
Childhood fears related to water levels in games are common.
Game mechanics can significantly impact player experience.
The indie game scene is thriving with innovative titles.
Industry trends suggest a shift in game development strategies.
The hosts share personal anecdotes that resonate with many gamers. Open-world games have evolved, but some repetitiveness remains.
Handheld consoles are gaining popularity, especially with the Xbox branding.
Hollow Knight: Silksong is highly anticipated and will be showcased at events.
Sony's live service strategy has faced significant challenges and cancellations.
The Drifter offers a unique gaming experience with a compelling story.
The excitement for new gaming devices is palpable among gamers.
Xbox's branding may attract a broader audience to handheld gaming.
The narrative depth in games like The Drifter enhances player engagement.
Live service games require careful planning to avoid failures.
The gaming community is eager for more single-player experiences.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Episode Timecodes
00:00:00 - Hello00:02:00 - Discussing Review Codes00:05:45 - Nintendo Indie World Showcase Recap00:17:40 - Xbox Cancels Contraband00:24:00 - Xbox ROG Ally Release Date & Hollow Knight: Silk Song Rumours00:30:10 - Sony Admits PlayStation Live Service Strategy Isn't Going Great00:41:10 - The Drifter Review00:46:40 - Goodbye
Resources
Nintendo's Indie World Showcase - here's everything announced | Eurogamer.net
Development On The Xbox Exclusive Co-Op Game Contraband Has Stopped
Official Xbox handheld console ROG Ally gets a release date, courtesy of reliable leaker | Eurogamer.net
After Concord and a string of delays and cancellations, Sony admits PlayStation's live-service strategy is "not entirely going smoothly" | 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

State of Play Reactions – Did PlayStation Deliver in June 2025?

In this special bonus episode of Arcade Couch, Dylan and Ashley react to the latest State of Play showcase, discussing their overall impressions, standout game reveals, and specific titles that caught their attention.
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The State of Play showcased a solid lineup of games.
Excitement peaked with the reveal of James Bond and a Marvel fighting game.
Luminous Arise promises a unique twist on Tetris gameplay.
Pragmata's long-awaited return has fans curious about its story.
Suda51's new game looks wild and intriguing.
Silent Hill: F's trailer builds anticipation for its release.
Bloodstained continues to expand its legacy in gaming.
Final Fantasy Tactics remaster is a long-awaited project.
Baby Steps offers a comedic take on walking mechanics.
Mortal Kombat Legacy Collection aims to celebrate the franchise's history. The announcement of a new game package with a documentary is exciting for both gamers and non-gamers.
The introduction of a wireless fighting stick indicates a shift in gaming hardware.
The new trailers for games like Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater showcase impressive graphics and gameplay.
Neo 3 is set to release in 2026, continuing the trend of souls-like games.
The multiplayer aspect of Tidewalkers introduces a unique gameplay mechanic.
Free content updates for games like Ask Robots keep players engaged and satisfied.
The upcoming VR game FIF VR Legacy of Shadow looks promising with its unique setting.
The revival of classic titles like Twisted Metal is a nostalgic move for gamers.
The collaboration between PlayStation and Marvel for a new fighting game is highly anticipated.
The hosts express excitement for the upcoming Summer Game Fest and the potential announcements it may bring.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
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

Is the A24 Elden Ring Movie Doomed or Destined for Greatness?

We break down the announcement of an Elden Ring movie with A24 and Alex Garland being involved, as well as other news stories from the week that was.
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The Summer Games Fest is generating excitement among gamers.
The Switch 2 release is approaching, but hype levels are mixed.
The FTC has dropped its case against Microsoft's Activision buyout, marking a significant development.
A24 is adapting Elden Ring into a live-action film, raising questions about the adaptation process.
Alex Garland's involvement in the Elden Ring movie is intriguing but uncertain regarding his directorial role.
Video game adaptations face challenges, especially with RPGs that allow character customisation.
A24 is known for picking unconventional projects, which could influence the Elden Ring film.
The Nintendo Switch 2's support for USB mice could change gameplay dynamics.
The functionality of Joy-Cons as a mouse raises questions about gameplay mechanics.
The gaming community is curious about Nintendo's potential to sell mice. Mouse compatibility could enhance gameplay on Switch 2.
PlayStation Stars failed to engage users effectively.
Digital collectibles need more interactive features.
The Last of Us series may extend beyond three seasons.
Nintendo could capitalise on nostalgia with retro products.
User engagement is crucial for gaming programs' success.
The gaming community's response shapes program longevity.
The narrative complexity of The Last of Us requires more seasons.
Neil Druckmann's involvement is pivotal for franchise direction.
Future adaptations may align with game releases.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
Resources
It's Over! FTC Drops Its Case Against Microsoft's Activision Buyout | Push Square
Elden Ring Movie in the Works From Director Alex Garland - Explosion Network
Nintendo Switch 2 will support a USB-mouse, at least in some games - Explosion Network
PlayStation Stars Program Ending: Spend Points by November 2026 - Explosion Network
The Last of Us Could Extend Beyond Season 3 – "No Way to Complete It in Three," Says Showrunner, Mazin - 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

What's Happening At PlayStation Where We Get Astro Bot + Concord Cancelled In The Same Week?

One video game is released to acclaim, and the other lasts just less than two weeks before it's scrubbed from the timeline.
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NBA 2K25 features improved gameplay and animations but continues to face criticism for its monetization system.
The game Concord was poorly marketed and executed, leading to its cancellation just 11 days after release.
Sony's focus on multiplayer games and lack of support for smaller, single-player experiences like Astro Bot is a cause for concern.
The Secret Level episode based on Concord will still be released despite the game's cancellation.
There is a need for better marketing and support for indie games and single-player experiences in the gaming industry. The hosts have mixed opinions on the gaming market, with criticisms of PlayStation and Xbox's performance.
Astro's Playroom is praised for its nostalgic and joyful elements, and the hosts express excitement for the game.
The design choices in the Minecraft movie trailer receive criticism, particularly the use of live-action components.
The hosts discuss the reactions to the Minecraft movie trailer, including right-wing backlash.
The conversation highlights the importance of creativity and imagination in gaming experiences.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
The Minecraft Movie Teaser Looks Like A Nightmarish Fever Dream
Concord will reportedly remain in Amazon's upcoming Secret Level series despite recent shutdown | 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

Our Personal Favourite Games of 2023 Lists

Dylan, Ashley and Ciaran go over their top ten games of 2023.
Our full Explosion Network Top 10 Games of 2023 list will be coming this Sunday, with a bonus Arcade Couch discussing the top three games.

Should Sony and Xbox Return For PAX AUS 2024?

Dylan and Ciaran discuss PAX AUS 2023 and whether big names like Sony and Xbox should return to the event in 2024. 
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Episode Timecodes
INTRO00:00:00 - Hello00:01:40 - Post-PAX Discussion With CiaranTHE NEWS00:34:04 - Xbox and Activision Deal Is Officially Over00:36:03 - The Game Awards Returns On December 8thGOODBYE00:41:40 - Goodbye
ResourcesExplosion NetworkThe Game Awards returns on December 7th, 2023Xbox has OFFICIALLY and FINALLY acquired Activision Blizzard KingKotakuPlayStation And Xbox Need To Get Their Asses Back To PAX Aus
Arcade Couch Credits:Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie Henriques
All Episodes:https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/
Support Us:http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion