Xbox Developer Direct Brings The Good & Kicks-Off 2025 Showcases

We discuss the first big games showcase for 2025, the Xbox Developer_Direct.
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The Xbox Developer Direct showcases a unique presentation style that emphasizes developer insights.
Ninja Gaiden 4 marks a significant return for the franchise after 13 years.
South of Midnight offers a fresh narrative with Southern Gothic inspirations.
Claire Obscure presents an intriguing story with JRPG elements and real-time combat.
The condensed release schedule for Xbox games could impact Game Pass subscriptions positively.
The developers' focus on storytelling and character depth is evident in the upcoming titles.
The excitement for Ninja Gaiden 4 is tempered by concerns about its long absence from the gaming scene.
South of Midnight's art style and animation are particularly appealing to the hosts.
The voice cast for Claire Obscure is impressive but was not highlighted in the presentation.
The hosts express a mix of excitement and skepticism about the evolving nature of turn-based combat in games. The game presentation was stylish and well-executed.
Doom: The Dark Ages introduces exciting gameplay innovations.
Open-world elements in Doom enhance exploration and engagement.
The cancellation of Earthblade raises concerns about indie game development.
Insomniac Games' founder's retirement marks a significant industry change.
Assassin's Creed Shadows previews are generally positive.
Upcoming games in February include notable titles like Like a Dragon and Avowed.
The hosts express mixed feelings about the storytelling in Doom.
Doom's gameplay encourages aggressive playstyles and constant action.
The gaming industry continues to evolve with new titles and cancellations.
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

Concord Is The Next Big Hit & We Discuss Kotaku AU Shutting Down

Concord is great, and it's Ciaran's new love, so we break down why it's taken his world by storm.
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There is a lack of standout games in 2023 so far, with no big defining Sony IP and no game that revolutionises the industry.
The closure of Kotaku Australia highlights the challenges faced by the games media industry despite the thriving games development scene in Australia.
Xbox Game Pass is undergoing changes in subscription models and prices, with the removal of the Game Pass for console tier and price increases for other tiers.
Opinions on the value of Xbox Game Pass vary, with some seeing it as a decent deal despite the price increase, while others are frustrated by the removal of day one releases from the standard tier. Xbox Game Pass offers a great value for gamers, but the recent price increase and introduction of pricing tiers has caused confusion among consumers.
Concord is a hero arena shooter developed by Firewalk Studios and published by Sony. It features unique gameplay mechanics and a focus on versatility and teamwork.
Angerfoot is a fast-paced kicking and shooting game developed by Free Lives. It offers unique gameplay and a fun and challenging experience.
Both Concord and Angerfoot have received positive reviews and are worth checking out for fans of their respective genres.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
https://explosionnetwork.com/anger-foot-review/
Kotaku Australia to shut down | GamesIndustry.biz
Xbox Game Pass Is Getting Price Increases Along With A New "Standard" Tier
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