Arcade Couch

Assassin's Creed Shadows Is Delayed, Should We Be Worried?

We discuss Assassin's Creed Shadow's delay and its removal from Ubisoft's booth at PAX AUS 2024 and how that will affect the show.
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Ciaran expresses regret for past comments about PlayStation.
Local gaming events can foster community engagement and excitement.
Fans highly anticipate the Legacy of Kain remasters.
Overwatch's current focus on skins over gameplay is concerning.
The Tokyo Game Show showcased a variety of new games and trailers.
Game Pass is expanding its library with classic JRPGs.
The hosts reflect on the importance of local showcases for indie developers.
There is a growing interest in games that highlight unique storytelling.
The gaming community is eager for more diverse and engaging content.
The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of gaming and its impact on players. PAX Week is set to feature exciting events like the Cult of the Lamb rave.
The marriage ceremony at PAX is a unique addition to the gaming event.
The Day Before's crowdfunding campaign has sparked controversy in the gaming community.
February 2025 is shaping up to be a massive month for game releases.
The Steam Deck offers a more streamlined gaming experience compared to the ROG.
Battery life and boot time are significant factors in choosing a handheld gaming device.
The hosts express excitement for indie games showcased at PAX.
Community engagement is crucial for the success of crowdfunding campaigns.
The gaming industry is seeing a shift towards more polished game releases.
The Steam Deck's ergonomic design enhances the gaming experience.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
Aspyr & Crystal Dynamics Reveal Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered, Launching Dec. 10, 2024, on PC & Consoles
Xbox TGS 2024 Broadcast: All the trailers and news from the show - Explosion Network
Big Games Night Out 2024: All the details on this free MIGW event - Explosion Network
The Day Before dev is back, this time with a Kickstarter - and nope, absolutely not
February 2025 is now absurdly stacked with big games | PC Gamer
https://x.com/UbisoftANZ/status/1839530412495777812
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
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Nintendo Switch 2 Leaks, The Plucky Squire & Copycat Reviews

The Nintendo Switch 2 might have leaked; Tasmania is hosting its first video game showcase, and we've got reviews for two Australian games, The Plucky Squire and Copycat.
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The Plucky Squire is a must-play for 2024.
Australian regulations on loot boxes aim to protect children.
Tasmania is hosting its first video game showcase.
Nintendo Switch 2 leaks suggest significant upgrades.
Netflix is adapting Splinter Cell into an animated series.
Loot box regulations may not significantly change consumer behaviour.
The importance of game ratings for parents is highlighted.
The hosts share their thoughts on the future of gaming consoles.
The discussion reflects a blend of humour and critical analysis. The new game 'Like a Dragon: Pirate Ikusa' features Goro Majima and is set in Hawaii.
Players can jump in battles for the first time in the Like a Dragon series.
Nintendo is suing Pocket Pair over alleged patent infringements related to 'Power World.'
The lawsuit highlights the challenges indie developers face against major companies.
'Drill Core' combines mining and tower defence mechanics, making it addictive.
'Copycat' tells a touching story about a cat and its owner despite some gameplay flaws.
The hosts express excitement for the upcoming PAX event and the games to be showcased.
There is a growing variety of games available, reigniting excitement among gamers.
'UFO 50' offers a unique experience with 50 fictional games from a fictional studio.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
The Plucky Squire Review - It's A Page Turner - Explosion Network
Aussie Government announces Loot Box and Gambling content classification changes - Vooks
https://explosionnetwork.com/level-up-tasmania-video-game-showcase-is-a-new-event-highlighting-local-talent/
The First Nintendo Switch 2 Photos Might Have Just Leaked
Netflix's Splinter Cell: Deathwatch animated series is "coming soon" | Eurogamer.net
Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza In Hawaii Has Been Revealed Alongside An Epic Collector's Edition
UPDATE: It's actually happening: Palworld developer Pocketpair is being sued by Nintendo and The Pokémon Company | VG247
Drill Core Early Access Review - Explosion Network
Copycat Review
Bakeru Review - Like A Transport Back To The N64 Classics - Explosion Network
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
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Annapurna Interactive Resignation Crisis

Annapurna Interactive has its staff quit out of nowhere, so what's going on there?
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The PlayStation Pro announcement sparked significant discussion among gamers.
Microsoft's layoffs reflect ongoing challenges in the gaming industry.
Total War Warhammer 3 continues to be popular among players.
Space Marine 2 has received positive feedback for its gameplay and design.
Flappy Bird's return is marred by controversy surrounding its new ownership.
Assassin's Creed Shadows will be featured at PAX Australia, generating excitement.
The gaming community is eager for big announcements at upcoming events.
The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding the context behind gaming news.
The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of the gaming industry.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
Resources
Annapurna Video-Game Team Resigns, Leaving Partners Scrambling - Bloomberg
Microsoft lays off further 650 Xbox staff, no games cancelled or studios closed | Eurogamer.net
Space Marine 2 most successful Steam launch for Warhammer 40K series | Eurogamer.net
That Flappy Bird Revival Is Not As Wholesome As You Think
Assassin's Creed Shadows Will Be Playable At PAX Australia Ahead Of Release
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
All Episodes:
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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:
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Support Us:
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Star Wars Outlaws Review & Deadlock Impressions

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:
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Concord's First Weekend + Gamescom Opening Night Live 2024

Conchord is now out but it seems like no one has noticed. Is the new Playstation release already on life support or is it possible to turn around its weak launch? Plus all the games shown during Gamescom Opening Night Live.
Hosts:Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingoAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
Episode Timecodes
00:00:00 - Hello00:00:58 - Concord’s First Weekend Thoughts00:27:26 - Gamescom Opening Night Live Recap01:01:52 - Valve Offically Reveal Deadlock01:05:47 - Black Myth: Wukong is a big deal01:11:14 - Goodbye
Resources
Gamescom Opening Night Live 2024: All the trailers, news and reveals
Valve's New Game Deadlock Has Finally Been Officially Revealed
Black Myth: Wukong continues to attract record-breaking numbers of players
Xbox Boss Phil Spencer Explains Decision to Launch Indiana Jones and the Great Circle on PS5
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
All Episodes:
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The Plucky Squire Preview & The Crush House Review

Dylan and Ashley have played a couple of hours of The Plucky Squire, which finally has a release date, and they discuss what they've played and their thoughts on the game.
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Dylan's mixed review of 'The Crush House.'
The release date of Dragon Age: The Veil Guard
Discussion on the potential release date of the Nintendo Switch 2
Mention of Valve's unannounced hero shooter, Deadlock, and the large number of players already playing the game. Valve's involvement in Gamescom and Geff Keighley's role are discussed
Speculation on potential game announcements and reveals at Gamescom
Dylan shares their thoughts on the Dungeons of Hinterberg
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyResources
The Crush House Review - Thirsty shooter dry's up fast - Explosion Network
Dragon Age: The Veilguard's Release Date Has Been Officially Confirmed Along With A Character's Exciting Return
Hopes fade for Switch 2 launch in early 2025 | Eurogamer.net
Thousands Of People Are Playing Deadlock, Valve's Unannounced New Hero Shooter
Here Are The Games Confirmed For Gamescom Opening Night Live 2024
The Plucky Squire Hands-On Preview - Explosion Network
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
All Episodes:
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Support Us:
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The Borderlands Movie Is Nearly The Worst Video Game Adaptation

Ash has watched the Borderlands movie and says it's as bad as you've heard.
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Cat Quest 3 is praised for its gameplay mechanics and visual style.
The Borderlands movie has received negative reviews and criticism, with many considering it disappointing.
The studio interference and lack of violence in the Borderlands movie have been major points of criticism.
Metacritic provides a list of the top 10 highest-rated video game film adaptations. Metacritic ratings can be a good indicator of the quality of video game movies.
Some video game movies, like Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and Monster Hunter, were ranked higher than expected.
The conversation highlights the lack of representation of certain video game movies, such as Super Mario Bros.
The hosts express their personal preferences and excitement for upcoming video game movies. The movie 'Werewolves Within' is a highly-rated video game adaptation directed by Josh Rubin.
The TV show 'Arcane' had episodes leaked online, which is a setback for the series.
Accessing the game Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown on PC requires signing into Ubisoft Connect, which can be frustrating.
An 'Until Dawn' movie is in the works, and it will likely rely on the fact that many people haven't played the game.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
Cat Quest III Review - Yarrr!!! Meowww!!! - Explosion Network
Critic reviews of the Borderlands movie are absolutely savage | PC Gamer
Arcane fans warned to avoid major spoilers, as majority of Season 2 leaks online | Eurogamer.net
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
All Episodes:
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Support Us:
http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

Thank Goodness You're Here Review & Game Informer Shuts Down

Dylan talks about how funny Thank Goodness You're Here is, and we discuss the biggest news stories of the week. 
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Game Informer, one of the last gaming magazines, is shutting down after 33 years.
The closure of Game Informer is part of a trend of layoffs and closures in the gaming journalism industry.
GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen has emphasized the need to scrutinize expenses and eliminate waste.
The closure of Game Informer marks the end of an era for gaming magazines and reflects the decline of print media in the gaming industry.
Digital content creators, such as YouTubers and TikTokers, have become more influential in shaping opinions and preferences in the gaming community.
Game Informer covers hold nostalgic value for many gamers, evoking memories of browsing through magazines in the past.
The lack of archiving of Game Informer's content is disappointing, as it prevents access to valuable gaming journalism and historical articles.
The release of a new episode of the Double Fine Adventure documentary series provides deeper insight into the passion and challenges of video game development.
EB World Plus, a new paid membership program by EB Games, offers extra trade value and bonus offers, but its value proposition may not be appealing to all gamers.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
Avowed Delayed to February 2025 to 'Give Players' Backlogs Some Breathing Room'
Game Informer is shutting down - The Verge
Double Fine drops a 90-minute update to its 20+ hour series documenting the development of Psychonauts 2 | Eurogamer.net
EB World Plus Is A New Paid Membership That Offers Extra Trade Value And Other Bonus Offers
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:
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Marvel Rivals Impressions, Ete Review, August 2024 Games

We discuss the Marvel Rivals beta, news about a Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver remaster, and upcoming games in August.
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The SAG-AFTRA strike highlights the need for clear and enforceable protections for video game performers.
The staff layoff at Humble Games is a blow to the indie gaming scene.
The potential remaster of Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver is exciting for franchise fans.
The delay of Stalker 2 allows for bug fixes and improvements.
The announcement of the first Olympic eSports games shows the growing recognition of eSports as a legitimate sport.
Ete offers a relaxing and immersive painting experience.
Marvel's Rivals closed beta has a frustrating key distribution system. Star Wars: Outlaws, Concord, and Dustborn are highly anticipated games releasing in August
The hosts have different levels of excitement and expectations for these games
Microtransactions and monetization strategies are a concern for some of the games
The popularity of American football games and the release of Madden NFL 25 and College Football are discussed
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
It Looks Like Legacy Of Kain: Soul Reaver Remasters Are Finally Happening
Video Game Actors In The US Are Striking Over Concerns Around AI
[Updated] Humble Games Has Laid Off Its Entire Staff With Work Taken Over By A Third Party
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Has Been Delayed Again
It's official: International Olympic Committee votes to confirm the first Olympic Esports Games will happen in 2025, even if they don't know the games yet | PC Gamer
The Most Exciting Game Releases In August 2024
Arcade Couch Credits:
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration
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Dungeons of Hinterberg Impressions

We discussed some short news stories this week, and Dylan had an impression of Dungeons of Hinterberg.
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Dungeons of Hinterberg combines elements of Persona and The Legend of Zelda.
The upcoming Untitled Goose Game exposition in Melbourne offers a behind-the-scenes look at the production of the indie game.
Fallout received multiple Emmy nominations, surprising the hosts.
The gameplay in Dungeons of Hinterberg is enjoyable, but the combat is mediocre.
The Xbox Game Pass provides access to a variety of games, including Dungeons of Hinterberg.
Hosts:Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladilAshley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobleyCiaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
Beetlejuice Resurrected for MultiVersus' Second PS5, PS4 Season | Push Square
Fallout show lands 16 Emmy nominations | VG247
An Official Untitled Goose Game Exhibition Is Coming To Melbourne
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