From 2004 to 2006, the gaming industry underwent significant changes, marked by both highs and lows. In 2004, Electronic Arts (EA) redefined industry success with its strategic NFL license acquisition and aggressive expansion, despite criticisms of their game quality. Meanwhile, iconic studios like Argonaut Games folded, whereas others, such as Insomniac Games, persevered. 2005 witnessed a surge in handheld gaming, counterbalanced by a wider industry stagnation. Controversies, like the "Hot Coffee" mod for Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, stirred debates, while the Xbox 360's launch ushered in a new console era amidst its own challenges. By 2006, the Xbox 360 grappled with criticisms, Blizzard's policies in World of Warcraft sparked debates, but Sony's financial rebound and major industry acquisitions hinted at a consolidating and optimistic future.

Featured Games:

Half-Life 2, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Katamari Damacy, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay, Halo 2, Resident Evil 4, God of War, Shadow of the Colossus, The Guitar Hero Guitar, F.E.A.R., World of Warcraft, LEGO Star Wars: The Video Game, Shamu's Deep Sea Adventures, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, Wii Sports, Gears of War, Ōkami, Company of Heroes, Brain Age: Train Your Brain in Minutes a Day!, New Super Mario Bros., and Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Double Agent.

• (00:00) - Episode 7