Arcade Couch

By Explosion Network

Arcade Couch — News, reviews & spicy takes on the week in games.

Arcade Couch is the Explosion Network’s premiere video games podcast featuring discussions on the latest games, tech, ind

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FAQs about Arcade Couch:

How many episodes does Arcade Couch have?

The podcast currently has 377 episodes available.

Arcade Couch episodes:

November 23, 2025Is Half-Life 3 Finally Happening? + Xbox Partner Showcase Recap
We discuss the Xbox Partner Preview showcase and rumours of Half-Life 3 being announced before the end of the year.
Also on the show, Dylan has played Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment and Kirby Air Riders and gives his thoughts on both of the games so far.
SHOW DOT POINTS
The Xbox Partner Preview showcased a variety of new games and trailers.
The hosts expressed excitement about the diversity of game genres presented.
Discussion on the impact of free DLC on player engagement and community goodwill.
The conversation touched on the significance of game awards and nominations.
The hosts shared their thoughts on the evolving nature of indie games and their recognition in the industry.
The importance of community support in the gaming industry was emphasised.
The hosts reflected on the unique and sometimes humorous aspects of game announcements.
The conversation highlighted the challenges and opportunities AI presents in game development.
The hosts discussed the balance between traditional gaming and innovative new titles.
The podcast concluded with a reflection on the future of gaming and the anticipation of upcoming releases. Troy Baker's performance is seen as mimicry rather than originality.
Award nominations can be frustrating, especially for lesser-known performances.
The timing of game releases can significantly affect award nominations.
The Game Awards are a platform for major announcements and predictions.
Rumours about Half-Life 3 continue to circulate, keeping fans hopeful.
Nintendo's release strategy for the Switch 2 has been effective in maintaining interest.
The new titles for Nintendo Switch 2 are well-received and contribute to its success.
Voice acting in games can be subjective and open to interpretation.
The gaming community is eager for new content and announcements.
The conversation reflects a deep engagement with current gaming trends and news.
YOUR HOSTS
🎙️ Dylan Blight
🎙️ Ashley Hobley
🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
EPISODE TIMECODES
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:10 - Xbox Partner Preview Highlights
00:45:00 - Half-Life 3 Rumours and Speculations
00:48:03 - Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment Impressions
00:55:00 - Kirby Air Riders Impressions
01:08:15 - Outro
RESOURCES
Xbox Partner Preview | November 2025: Everything Announced From Our Amazing Partners - Xbox Wire
The Game Awards Nominations For 2025 Have Been Revealed
Don't Give Up Hope Yet, Insider Claims That Half-Life 3 Will Still Be Announced This Year
CREDITS
🎵 Music: Dylan Blight
🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay
🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques
📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM
👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK
Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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1h 9min
November 16, 2025Valve Tries The Steam Machine Again + Dispatch Spoilertalk
On this week’s episode of Arcade Couch, we give our impressions of the first trailer for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, Discuss Valve’s announcement of new hardware, share the most interesting reveals from the Playstation State of Play Japan showcase and give our final thoughts on Dispatch now that all the episodes are out.
YOUR HOSTS
🎙️ Ashley Hobley
🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
EPISODE TIMECODES
00:00:00 - Intro
00:00:58 - The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Trailer Reaction
00:05:55 - Valve Announces New Hardware
00:17:55 - Horizon MMORPG Revealed for Mobile and PC
00:25:45 - PlayStation State of Play Japan Wrap Up
00:31:36 - Mixtape Delayed to 2026
00:32:23 - Dispatch Discussion
00:46:48 - Dispatch Spoilertalk
00:39:05 - Outro
RESOURCES
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie drops new trailer and introduces two new characters - Checkpoint
Valve Reveals A New Steam Machine, Controller, And VR Headset In A Huge Hardware Announcement
Horizon Steel Frontiers Announced As MMORPG For Mobile & PC - Explosion Network
PlayStation State of Play Japan: All the Trailers and Announcements - Explosion Network
Beethoven & Dinosaur’s Mixtape Delayed to 2026 - Explosion Network
CREDITS
🎵 Music: Dylan Blight
🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay
🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques
📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM
👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK
Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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57min
November 09, 2025GTA 6 Delayed – New Release Date & What It Means To The Industry
We discuss Grand Theft Auto VI's delay, the release of League of Legends: Riftbound, Pokémon Legends: Z-A DLC, and the news that the Mass Effect TV series will be set after the events of the third game.
SHOW DOT POINTS
The gaming community is buzzing with excitement over current events.
League of Legends and Overwatch are still popular among gamers.
The release of Pokémon Legends: ZAH has generated significant interest.
The upcoming DLC for Pokémon Legends introduces new features and challenges.
Grand Theft Auto VI's delay has sparked mixed reactions from fans.
The gaming industry is facing challenges with release schedules due to major titles.
The GTA VI delay may impact Call of Duty's future.
The hosts reflect on how gaming has become easier over the years.
The conversation touches on the importance of game awards and their timing.
The hosts share their personal gaming experiences and preferences. GTA 7 is expected to dominate the gaming awards.
Take-Two Interactive prioritises sales over accolades.
The Overcooked reality show could redefine cooking competitions.
Mass Effect's new series will explore original stories set after Shepard.
Adapting iconic characters like Shepard poses significant challenges.
The gaming industry is seeing a trend of delays and cancellations.
Reality shows based on games can be successful if done right.
The crossover between different gaming audiences is limited.
Game release dates are strategically chosen for maximum impact.
Fans are sceptical about the future of beloved franchises.
YOUR HOSTS
🎙️ Dylan Blight
🎙️ Ashley Hobley
🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
EPISODE TIMECODES
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:30 - Week Of League of Legends
00:05:30 - Pokémon Legends: Z-A Mega Evolution DLC
00:12:20 - Grand Theft Auto VI Delayed
00:25:45 - Overcooked TV Series Coming
00:30:20 - Mass Effect TV Series Will Tell Original Story
00:37:55 - Patch Notes: Hot Fix
00:39:05 - Outro
RESOURCES
Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Mega Dimension DLC Launches December 10 - Explosion Network
Grand Theft Auto VI Delayed to November 19, 2026 - Explosion Network
A24 and Netflix Team Up for an Overcooked Unscripted Series Adaptation - Explosion Network
Oh good, Amazon's Mass Effect TV series will take place after the events of the original trilogy
Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra Delayed to Late 2026 - Explosion Network
CREDITS
🎵 Music: Dylan Blight
🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay
🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques
📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM
👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK
Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
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40min
November 02, 2025Xbox Says They’re Competing with TikTok, Not PlayStation
We discuss how the Xbox Boss has said TikTok is their biggest challenge and competition now, not other consoles, as well as the latest gaming headlines from the week.
SHOW DOT POINTS
The gaming industry is facing a November slump with little news.
Xbox sees competition beyond consoles, focusing on overall entertainment.
Attention spans are shorter, leading to a demand for simpler content.
Consumerism in gaming is critiqued through the lens of Outer Worlds 2.
Nintendo is providing significant updates for Animal Crossing without heavy monetisation.
Recent Pokémon leaks suggest exciting developments for the franchise.
The gaming landscape is evolving with new forms of competition.
Players are multitasking more than ever, affecting how games are consumed.
The Outer Worlds 2's consumerism trait is a humorous critique of players.
Nintendo's updates show a commitment to player satisfaction over profit. The Pokémon franchise has a rich history with many legends.
Pokémon Seed is anticipated to be a groundbreaking MMO.
The connection of various Pokémon regions is a long-awaited feature.
Nintendo's hardware limitations have affected Pokémon's evolution.
Fans are eager for more unique Pokémon titles.
Fortnite's crossover with The Simpsons brings nostalgia.
The Call of Duty movie has a strong creative team behind it.
Expectations for the Call of Duty movie are low but hopeful.
The gaming landscape is filled with exciting upcoming releases.
Indie games are gaining traction alongside major titles.
YOUR HOSTS
🎙️ Dylan Blight
🎙️ Ashley Hobley
EPISODE TIMECODES
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:20 - Xbox Boss Is More Concerned With TikTok Than Console Wars
00:12:40 - The Outer Worlds 2 Has A "Consumerism" Flaw
00:18:30 - Animal Crossing 3.0 Update Coming In January
00:23:00 - Pokemon Leaks
00:40:10 - What Games Are Releasing In November 2025?
00:53:00 - Fortnite's Massive Simpsons Cross-Over
00:56:45 - Call of Duty Movie Finds Writer & Director
01:00:05 - Patch Notes: Hot Fix
01:02:25 - Outro
RESOURCES
Xbox Boss Isn't Concerned About The Console War, Claims The 'Biggest Competition' Is Elsewhere
The Outer Worlds 2 dunks on you with a 'Consumerism' flaw that secretly makes you stupid if you bought its $100 version for early access: 'Promotions and sales have riddled your brain' | PC Gamer
All New Pokémon Games Release Roadmap: Every Confirmed & Leaked Game - Insider Gaming
Animal Crossing: New Horizons Is Getting A Nintendo Switch 2 Update And Heaps Of New Content
What Video Games Are Coming Out in November 2025? - Explosion Network
What are the new map and weapon loot pool changes in the Fortnite Simpsons mini season
The dudes behind Sicario and Lone Survivor are making the Call of Duty movie
CREDITS
🎵 Music: Dylan Blight
🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay
🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques
📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM
👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK
Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
...more
1h 3min
October 26, 2025We’re Loving Dispatch & Halo on PlayStation Is Actually Happening
We discuss the first two episodes of Dispatch, a new superhero adventure game from AdHoc Studio, a new team made up of former Telltale Developers, plus dive into the big news of the week, which includes Halo coming to PlayStation.
SHOW DOT POINTS
The hosts express excitement about reconnecting after a long time.
Fallout 4 Anniversary Edition is set to release soon.
Remedy Entertainment is facing challenges with the performance of its multiplayer game.
Xbox is transitioning from a console-focused company to a software brand.
Nintendo's Pikmin 4 update adds new features but lacks a Switch 2 version.
Hades II is receiving content updates based on player feedback.
The gaming community is eager for new content and updates.
The hosts reflect on the evolution of gaming consoles and their market strategies.
There is a growing trend of nostalgia in gaming announcements.
The importance of community engagement in game development is emphasised. Mickey Mouse for Hire has been delayed to early 2026.
Luigi's Mansion is coming to Switch in time for Halloween.
Dispatch is an office-based comedy about superheroes.
The game features a strong narrative and character development.
Aaron Paul voices the main character in Dispatch.
The game is structured like a TV series with episodic releases.
QuickTime events in games can detract from the experience.
The dispatching mini-game is a highlight of the gameplay.
Power Wash Simulator is great for multitasking while gaming.
Dispatch's pricing is considered a steal at $40. There's more equipment and gadgets to enhance gameplay.
Simulation games provide a relaxing escape for players.
Extraction shooters offer a unique blend of PvE and PvP elements.
The lore and setting of games can significantly enhance the experience.
Voice acting is crucial for character-driven narratives in games.
Players should demand better quality from established franchises.
Game mechanics should allow for fluid player interactions.
The design of game worlds impacts player immersion.
Players enjoy the risk-reward system in extraction shooters.
Community feedback can influence game design and improvements.
YOUR HOSTS
🎙️ Dylan Blight
🎙️ Ashley Hobley
🎙️ Ciaran Marchant
EPISODE TIMECODES
00:00:00 - Intro
00:03:00 - Fallout Day News
00:06:45 - Remedy Games Studio Shakeup
00:10:45 - Halo Is Coming To PS5
00:23:50 - Pikmin 4 Is Getting an Update, Years After Release
00:39:40 - Dispatch -- First Two Episodes Review
00:48:50 - Powewash Simulator 2 Impressions
00:51:20 - Arc Raiders Beta Impressions
00:55:40 - Ciaran's Pokémon Legends: Z-A Thoughts
01:13:00 - Outro
RESOURCES
Every Big Fallout Announcement From The 2025 Fallout Day Stream
Big change at Alan Wake studio, Remedy, as CEO steps down following failure of Control spin-off FBC: Firebreak | Eurogamer.net
Halo Campaign Evolved Is A Full Remake With New Missions And It's Coming To PS5 Too
Pikmin 4 gets free update adding Photo Mode, but no Switch 2 upgrade | Eurogamer.net
Hades 2's Big Post-Launch Update Tackles Everything From The Ending To Bosses And Boons
Black-and-white Mickey Mouse-styled shooter Mouse: P.I. For Hire delayed | Eurogamer.net
GameCube cosy horror Luigi's Mansion comes to Switch 2 in time for Halloween | Eurogamer.net
CREDITS
🎵 Music: Dylan Blight
🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay
🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques
📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM
👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK
Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
...more
1h 14min
October 21, 2025Pokémon Legends: Z-A Is All About Mega Evolution Battles!
Dylan discusses his time with Pokémon Legends: Z-A and his thoughts on the game after about ten hours.
Catching up with Ashley, he also goes over a bunch of stuff he played at PAX AUS 2025 last week that hasn't been discussed yet, and the two talk about their Hades 2 runs.
YOUR HOSTS
🎙️ Dylan Blight
🎙️ Ashley Hobley
RESOURCES
https://explosionnetwork.com/paxaus2025/
CREDITS
🎵 Music: Dylan Blight
🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques
📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM
👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK
Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network
...more
1h 26min
October 15, 2025 PAX AUS 2025 Recap – Biggest Highlights & Best Interviews!
We wrap up PAX AUS 2025 and Melbourne International Games Week from our hotel room on Monday morning before packing up and making our trek back home.
• We discuss the big highlights from the event for us this year
• There are some interview snippets here as well from
- Justin Vazquez, Creative Director on Grounded 2 at Eidos-Montréal + Miles Winzler, Producer on Grounded 2
- Rob Davis, Campaign Director at Sucker Punch Productions
- Mike Bilder and Allard Laban from Jackbox Games
HOSTS
Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil
Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
CREDITS
Music by: Dylan Blight
Art by: Cherie Henriques
Summary Show Notes: Created with Riverside.FM AI
All Episodes: https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/
Support Us: https://explosionnetwork.com/support
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48min
September 28, 2025Hades II First Impressions – Does It Live Up to the Original?
We've all been playing Hades II and discussing our early thoughts on the game, a sequel to one of our collective favourites.
Show Dot Points
Hades 2 introduces new gameplay mechanics that enhance strategy.
The art style and music continue to impress players.
Progression feels rewarding, regardless of the success of the run.
The game features a complex system of collectibles and upgrades.
Character relationships are more intricate in Hades 2.
The stakes in the story are higher compared to the first game.
Players appreciate the depth of Greek mythology in the narrative.
The game maintains a balance between challenge and accessibility.
Feedback on the game's systems varies among players.
The community is excited for future updates and expansions. The hex system in Hades adds a unique layer to gameplay.
State of Play revealed exciting new titles and updates.
Zero Parades is anticipated to capture the essence of Disco Elysium.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is coming to PlayStation, a surprise to many.
Battlefield 6's cinematic trailer draws comparisons to Call of Duty.
The gaming community is eager for more depth in Wolverine's gameplay.
PlayStation Plus is offering a strong lineup for October.
Gran Turismo continues to thrive with its loyal fanbase.
The evolution of game mechanics is crucial for player engagement.
The hosts express mixed feelings about new hardware announcements. The game design of upcoming titles may lean towards linear storytelling rather than open-world exploration.
Character relationships in the X-Men universe hold significant potential for deeper storytelling.
Sony's new reward system for PlayStation has received mixed reactions from the gaming community.
Forza Horizon 6 promises to bring a fresh setting and exciting gameplay mechanics.
Yakuza Kiwami 3 will not only remake the original but also expand on its story with new content.
Nintendo's leadership change marks a significant moment in the company's history, especially with the appointment of a female president.
The new RPG Anata showcases a blend of popular gaming mechanics from various franchises.
The gaming community is eager for more X-Men characters in upcoming titles.
The reaction to PlayStation's merchandise gatekeeping reflects broader trends in gaming culture.
The anticipation for Forza Horizon 6 highlights the franchise's evolution and commitment to diverse settings.
Hosts:
Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil
Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
State of Play September 2025: Wolverine, Saros, and Every Trailer Revealed - Explosion Network
Earn Trophies, Get Gear: PlayStation’s New Rewards Program Starts With Ghost of Tsushima - Explosion Network
Forza Horizon 6: Answering the Big Questions About That Japan Setting - Xbox Wire
Yakuza Kiwami 3 Announced for February 2026 With New Spin-Off Dark Ties - Explosion Network
Bowser retires from Nintendo, succeeded by first female president | Eurogamer.net
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:
https://explosionnetwork.com/support
...more
1h 20min
September 21, 2025What to See at PAX Australia 2025 – Exhibitors & Panels Breakdown
We discuss the PAX AUS 2025 exhibitor list and the panels you should check out each day.
Show Dot Points
Hades 2 is highly anticipated and set to release soon.
The podcast will take a break after the next episode.
Episodic game releases are gaining popularity, allowing for quicker engagement.
The Australian Game Developer Awards showcase a variety of talented games.
Nintendo's presence at PAX Australia is expected to draw significant attention.
The indie game scene in New Zealand is thriving compared to Australia.
The hosts express humour and camaraderie throughout the discussion.
The importance of game accessibility and representation is highlighted.
PAX Australia will feature a mix of major and indie titles.
The hosts are excited about the future of gaming events and releases. The hosts explore the latest cinema and anime releases, emphasizing their excitement for upcoming titles.
PAX Australia is set to feature a strong exhibitor lineup, including major gaming companies.
The conversation highlights the importance of community events like PAX in the gaming culture.
Panels at PAX Australia will cover a range of topics, showcasing industry leaders and indie developers.
Frosty Games Fest is returning to celebrate Australian and New Zealand game development.
The hosts reflect on the success of previous PAX events and their impact on the gaming community.
There is a growing interest in tabletop gaming alongside video games at conventions.
The hosts share their personal experiences and expectations for PAX Australia.
The conversation emphasises the significance of events in fostering connections within the gaming community.
The hosts encourage listeners to engage with the gaming community and participate in upcoming events.
Hosts:
Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil
Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
Dispatch, the Superhero Comedy from Ex-Telltale Devs, Confirms PC + PS5 Release Date and Episodic Release - IGN
Finalists Announced for the 2025 Australian Game Developer Awards
PAX Australia 2025 Exhibitor Lineup Officially Revealed - Explosion Network
PAX Australia 2025 Full Schedule and Our Top Recommendations - Explosion Network
https://www.well-played.com.au/frosty-games-fest-is-coming-back-this-december-to-highlight-australian-and-new-zealand-games/
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:
https://explosionnetwork.com/support
...more
36min
September 14, 2025Nintendo Direct September 2025 – Full Recap & Impressions
We discuss the September 2025 Nintendo Direct & Ciaran also gives his impressions on Borderlands 4.
Show Dot Points
The Nintendo Direct showcased exciting new titles and updates.
The Super Mario Galaxy movie is set to release in April 2026.
Mario Tennis Fever aims to address past complaints with new features.
Super Mario Wonder will receive additional content for the Switch 2.
Yoshi's new adventure promises a unique storybook aesthetic.
Indie games like Dinkum are making their way to the Switch.
Hades II is a highly anticipated sequel with a console-exclusive window.
The gaming community is buzzing about potential Game of the Year candidates.
The hosts express their excitement for upcoming releases and nostalgia for classic titles.
The conversation reflects a vibrant gaming culture and community engagement. Hyrule Wars is set to release on November 6.
Dragon Quest 7 remake looks significantly better than the original.
The Virtual Boy was a commercial failure, but is being revived.
Nintendo Switch 2 introduces new features for existing games.
Fans highly anticipate Power Wash Simulator 2.
Metroid Prime 4 is finally releasing on December 4.
Donkey Kong Bonanza DLC offers new gameplay experiences.
Pokémon Pokopia allows players to experience life as a Ditto.
Danganronpa 2 remaster includes new scenarios and gameplay elements.
Borderlands 4 has optimisation issues, but retains core gameplay.
Hosts:
Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil
Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo
Resources
Nintendo Direct September 2025 – Every Game and Reveal - Explosion Network
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
...more
59min

FAQs about Arcade Couch:

How many episodes does Arcade Couch have?

The podcast currently has 377 episodes available.

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