We're back after a long and virus-infused holiday break to dive into the latest Switch 2 rumors which predict that...The Switch 2 will definitely happen! Also, what are Square Enix's "aggressive" plans to use AI in game design? And, the difference between using tech to eliminate drudgery vs. eliminating workers.

Plus: The first iteration of Mickey Mouse (as Steamboat Willie) has entered the public domain, and he's already popped up in a horror video game (thank you, Internet!). We discuss copyright, trademark, and the fascinating future of our favorite characters as they break free from their creators.

Also, "Dave the Diver," "Elden Ring," mobile convergence, and a great new idle game that runs right in your World Wide Web Browser.

Join our Discord community: https://discord.gg/5xz84B9RRJ
 

Subscribe to the show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ColetteAndMatt

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! [email protected]

Follow and subscribe to Colette:

• https://bsky.app/profile/itscocobee.bsky.social
• https://www.twitch.tv/hellococobee

Follow and subscribe to Matt:

• https://bsky.app/profile/mattsilverman.bsky.social
• https://www.patreon.com/influencepod
• https://www.youtube.com/c/freedadvideos

Our theme music is by Azure Flux: https://azureflux.bandcamp.com/

Our logo is illustrated by @JustCallMeKatarina: https://www.instagram.com/justcallmekatarina/