Arcade Couch

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a GOTY Contender

We discuss how good Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is and why it's a GOTY contender this year.
This week, we also cover the GTA VI delay into 2026, and when Silksong will, presumably, be released.
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The game is a masterpiece with beautiful storytelling.
Claire Obscure: Expedition 33 is a strong contender for game of the year.
The game features a unique blend of Western RPG elements and JRPG influences.
Combat requires active engagement, making it more challenging than traditional RPGS.
Character roles are crucial for effective combat strategies.
Exploration is hindered by the lack of a map, complicating navigation.
The game has a distinct French aesthetic and cultural influence.
Players should be cautious of spoilers when seeking gameplay tips.
The game rewards exploration and strategic use of items.
The character development system allows for diverse gameplay experiences. Ashley discusses switching to story mode for easier gameplay.
Ciaran mentions Jennifer English's influence on game accessibility.
The pricing strategy of indie games is highlighted as a success factor.
The hosts agree on the importance of new IPS in the gaming landscape.
Ciaran emphasises the need for developers to learn from successful indie games.
The impact of Xbox Game Pass on game sales is discussed.
The anticipation for GTA 6 is seen as a double-edged sword for other games.
Ashley notes the long wait for GTA 6 and its implications for the industry.
Dylan expresses excitement for the upcoming Hollow Knight: Silksong.
The hosts reflect on the significance of gaming events and exhibitions.
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

IEM Melbourne 2025

Dylan and Ciaran discuss their time at IEM Melbourne 2025, from the Counter-Strike matches to the event itself.
We also talk about the release of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, how it potentially blocked Clair Obscur somewhat, and the news that Split-Fiction is already getting a film. 
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilCiaran 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

24 Players in Mario Kart Is Insanity

Dylan and Ciaran attempt to plan their IEM trip for this week, and we also discuss the details of Mario Kart World.
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The hosts are excited about the upcoming IEM event.
They discuss the possibility of recording a podcast live from the event.
Travel logistics are a key concern for the hosts.
The event is sold out, indicating a strong interest in esports in Australia.
The hosts plan to attend various matches and events during the weekend.
They express uncertainty about the event schedule and logistics.
The conversation includes humour and banter among the hosts.
The hosts are considering their travel options to Melbourne.
They discuss the significance of Anzac Day in relation to the event.
The hosts are eager to experience the atmosphere of the IEM event. Car parking can be a significant concern during events.
Planning ahead for gaming events like PAX is essential.
Tempopo offers a unique puzzle experience with musical elements.
The success of Unpacking sets high expectations for its developers.
Star Wars Zero Company promises engaging tactical gameplay.
Mario Kart World Direct reveals exciting new courses and features.
Indie games often rely on word of mouth for success.
The gaming community values narrative elements in games.
Game announcements can generate varying levels of excitement.
Planning itineraries for gaming events can make the experience even better. Mario Kart World introduces 24-player races, doubling the previous limit.
The game features a variety of characters, including unexpected ones like a cow and a fish.
New game modes include Grand Prix, Knockout Tour, Free Roam, and Battle Mode.
Pricing for Mario Kart World is set at $120, raising discussions about game value.
Nintendo's games tend to retain their value and rarely go on sale.
The hosts express a desire for more innovative games in the industry.
The importance of game design and player experience is emphasised.
Music plays a significant role in enhancing the gaming experience.
The hosts discuss the need for diverse game offerings to support creativity in game development.
The conversation ends with light-hearted banter about movie plans.
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
 

South of Midnight & Rematch Impressions

We discuss South of Midnight, Xbox's newest game from Compulsion Games, as well as a hands-on impression of Rematch, the new soccer/football game from the developers of SIFU.
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The hosts express excitement for the upcoming episode.
'South of Midnight' features a unique art style and storytelling approach.
The game explores themes of racial inequality and personal relationships.
Gameplay mechanics include exploration and combat, though the latter feels unnecessary at times.
Bungie's 'Marathon' is set to launch in September 2025 with a premium price model.
The game will support cross-play and cross-save across platforms.
The hosts discuss the potential success of 'Marathon' based on Bungie's reputation.
HBO's 'The Last of Us' has been renewed for a third season ahead of its second season premiere.
The renewal indicates confidence in the show's success.
The hosts speculate on the narrative direction of The Last of Us series. Characters' emotional journeys are crucial in storytelling.
Directorial choices can significantly impact the narrative experience.
Narrative complexity in video games can lead to richer adaptations.
The future of 'The Last of Us' franchise remains uncertain but promising.
Audience reactions can sometimes disrupt the cinema experience.
Innovative gameplay mechanics can enhance player engagement.
Character development is key to audience connection.
The balance between humor and seriousness in adaptations is delicate.
Understanding audience demographics can inform marketing strategies.
The evolution of video game adaptations is an ongoing journey.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Episode Timecodes
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Anticipation02:58 Exploring 'South of Midnight'06:13 Gameplay Mechanics and Storytelling08:56 Bungie's 'Marathon' Reveal14:54 HBO's 'The Last of Us' Season 3 Renewal22:50 The Emotional Journey of Characters25:04 Directorial Choices and Their Impact28:06 Narrative Complexity in Video Game Adaptations30:02 The Future of The Last of Us Franchise32:22 Audience Reactions and Cinema Etiquette41:39 Innovative Gameplay in New Titles
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

Nintendo Switch 2 Review: Price, Launch Date & More

Dylan & Ashley break down all the details from the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal, including price, games and more.
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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

The Final Nintendo Direct for the Switch, Probably

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 

Assassin's Creed Shadows in a Ghost of Tsushima World

Our first impressions of Assassin's Creed Shadows, and we discuss Australian sticking an RC on Silent Hill F.
Please ask for help:
https://www.suicidepreventionaust.org/
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Assassin's Creed Shadows has topped two million players at launch.
The game has received mostly positive reviews, marking a strong return for the franchise.
The subscription model offers a cost-effective way to access the game.
Exploration feels natural with a well-structured map.
The game features customizable difficulty settings for combat and stealth.
Character dynamics are interesting, with a focus on two main characters.
The narrative structure includes a meta-narrative that adds depth to the gameplay.
Technical issues have been reported, but overall ,gameplay remains enjoyable.
The DLC includes a dog-collecting feature, adding a fun element to the game.
The hosts express excitement for upcoming gaming events and personal plans. Counter-Strike is becoming a major focus in esports events.
Silent Hill F's classification refusal highlights ongoing censorship issues.
Game bans often stem from themes of drugs and sexual violence.
The gaming community is evolving with significant anniversaries like God of War.
Mental health discussions are crucial, especially among men.
It's important to reach out to loved ones during tough times.
Censorship in gaming can impact the storytelling and experience.
The rise of esports is changing how games are perceived and celebrated.
Celebrating milestones in gaming can foster community and nostalgia.
Awareness of mental health can save lives and promote connection.
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

Split Fiction Is Better Than It Takes Two?

Ciaran discusses Split Fiction and Wanderstop, Ashley talks about his time with WWE2K 25 and Dylan gushes over the Death Stranding 2: On The Beach trailer.
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The introduction of a new hub world in WWE 2K25.
Character creation is a significant aspect of WWE 2K25.
Intergender fighting is a controversial yet engaging feature.
Split Fiction offers a fresh gaming experience with innovative mechanics.
The storytelling in Split Fiction is well-developed and engaging.
Side stories in Split Fiction add depth to the gameplay.
The hosts express mixed feelings about the new WWE game.
The importance of narrative in gaming is emphasized.
The gaming community's reaction to intergender fighting is discussed.
Overall ratings for the games reflect their experiences. Ashley had Splinter Station with a 90 on OpenCritic.
The Elder Scrolls Oblivion remake seems likely to happen.
Death Stranding 2's trailer was revealed at the South by Southwest.
The trailer for Death Stranding 2 is visually stunning and engaging.
Wanderstop is a cozy game about making tea and character interactions.
The game features deeper narratives and darker moments.
Characters in Wanderstop have unique stories and quirks.
The music in Death Stranding is crucial to its emotional impact.
The hosts express excitement for upcoming game releases.
The gaming community is buzzing with anticipation for new titles.
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

Warner Bros. Games's Studio Closures + Pokemon Presents & More Showcases

In a week filled with Gaming presentations from Annapurna, Id@Xbox and Pokemon, the news of studio closures at Warner Bros. Games dominated this week's news cycle. Join Ashley and Ciaran as they discuss it all and provide an important update for those wanting to watch The Last of Us: Season 2 in Australia.
Hosts:Ashley Hobley: https://bsky.app/profile/ashleyhobley.bsky.social Ciaran Marchant: https://bsky.app/profile/en-ringo.bsky.social  
Episode Timecodes00:00:00 - Hello00:00:54 - Pokemon Presents recap00:15:06 - Annapurna Interactive Showcase 2025 Recap 00:22:20 - ID@Xbox Showcase Recap00:32:02 - Warner Bros. Games closes 3 Studios00:42:10 - Fable Pushed to 202600:45:48 - The Last of Us: Season 2 is Not Coming to Binge00:48:24 - Goodbye
Resources:
Eurogamer
Shadow of Mordor's brilliant Nemesis system is locked away by a Warner Bros patent until 2036, despite studio shutdown | Eurogamer.net
Gameshub
Annapurna Interactive Showcase 2025 – Every game announcement
ID@Xbox Showcase for Feb 2025 – Every game announcement
Fable has been pushed back to 2026
The Last of Us: Season 2 won't stream on Binge in Australia 
Polygon
Warner Bros. closes Monolith Productions and MultiVersus studio, cancels Wonder Woman game
Press-Start
Everything Announced At The February 2025 Pokemon Presents Stream 
VG247
Wonder Woman being canned reportedly followed Monolith planning a nemesis systemy new IP Warner Bros didn't want, then doing nemesis systemy Wonder Woman, then God of War-ish Wonder Woman
Arcade Couch Credits:Music by: Dylan BlightArt by: Cherie HenriquesAll Episodes:https://arcadecouch.podbean.com/Support Us:http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage – Tape 1 Review & Reactions

We discuss Lost Records: Bloom & Rage – Tape 1, Avowed, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii & more.
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Ciaran achieved diamond 3 in Marvel Rivals, showcasing personal gaming success.
The firing of employees from a successful game raises questions about industry practices.
'Bloom and Rage' features a unique storytelling approach across two timelines.
The game includes supernatural elements that affect character choices.
Character interactions are central to the gameplay experience in 'Bloom and Rage'.
The pacing of 'Bloom and Rage' can sometimes feel slow, impacting engagement.
Realistic character designs, including acne, enhance the authenticity of the game.
The game explores themes of body dysphoria and LGBTQ+ representation.
'Like a Dragon: Pirate Adventures' focuses on action and pirate-themed gameplay.
Players should complete 'Infinite Wealth' before diving into 'Like a Dragon: Pirate Adventures' to avoid spoilers. Naval combat can be more engaging than traditional gameplay.
Yakuza's charm lies in its quirky characters and storylines.
Unique gameplay experiences can be found in simple concepts like digging.
Exploration in games can lead to unexpected discoveries.
Character backstories add depth to gameplay experiences.
Dialogue systems can enhance player engagement and choices.
Games can be both fun and thought-provoking.
The importance of narrative in gaming cannot be overstated.
Player choices can have lasting impacts on the game world.
Enjoying a game often comes down to personal preferences.
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