Arcade Couch

Arcade Couch

By Explosion NetworkLeisureVideo Games
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Arcade Couch episodes

  • God Of War Future, Splatoon Raiders Impressions | Arcade Couch

    We discuss God of War: Laufey's release date and the future of Kratos, and Dylan shares his impressions of Splatoon Raiders.

    SHOW DOT POINTS

    • Dylan enjoys playing Splatoon Raiders, appreciating its narrative elements.
    • The game features a mix of single-player and multiplayer modes.
    • Players can upgrade weapons and abilities throughout the game.
    • The bond meter with AI companions adds a new layer to gameplay.
    • Dylan finds the core shooting mechanics familiar yet engaging.
    • The game runs smoothly on the Nintendo Switch at 60 frames per second.
    • The story involves a mystical fog and treasure hunting.
    • Dylan notes some levels feel repetitive in design.
    • The music is enjoyable but could use more variety.
    • The game could serve as an entry point for new players to the Splatoon franchise. August is a promising month for Australian game releases.
    • Marvel Token Fighting Souls is generating significant interest.
    • The hosts express mixed feelings about the pacing of the game's story mode.
    • Visuals and character designs in Marvel Token Fighting Souls are praised.
    • The gameplay feels a bit sluggish, impacting the overall experience.
    • Blocking mechanics in the game seem inconsistent.
    • The game offers various modes for training and casual play.
    • Fog Piercer is a unique tactical roguelike deck-building game.
    • The hosts are casual gamers, providing a different perspective on fighting games.
    • There's a blend of excitement and scepticism about the new titles.
    • YOUR HOSTS

      🎙️ Dylan Blight
      🎙️ Ashley Hobley

      RESOURCES
        • God of War: Laufey finally gets a release date - here's when you'll be able to play it
        • What Video Games Are Coming Out in August 2026? - Explosion Network
        • PlayStation Network down, as tens of thousands of players queue to play Marvel Tokon Fighting Souls newly-launched beta | Eurogamer.net
        • Fogpiercer Review - 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

            47 min
          • What’s Next for Fallout? Bethesda, Starfield & The Future of Xbox | Arcade Couch

            We discuss Bethesda's plans for the future of Fallout, The Elder Scrolls and more, as well as the devastating news for the upcoming God of War TV series.

            SHOW DOT POINTS

            • The gaming industry is experiencing a shift with fewer new titles being released.
            • Bethesda is focusing on expanding its existing franchises, such as Fallout and Starfield.
            • Remasters of classic games are becoming more common as studios seek to capitalise on nostalgia.
            • Fallout 5 is a long-term goal for Bethesda, with multiple projects in development.
            • Fallout Shelter remains popular, with plans for a television adaptation.
            • Live-action adaptations of video games face significant challenges, including casting issues.
            • The success of remasters can be influenced by the performance of previous titles in the franchise.
            • The gaming community is eager for new content, but many are also nostalgic for older games.
            • Game reviews highlight the creativity and uniqueness of new titles in the market.
            • The hosts encourage listener engagement and feedback for future episodes.
            • YOUR HOSTS

              🎙️ Dylan Blight
              🎙️ Ashley Hobley

              RESOURCES
              • A NOTE FROM BETHESDA GAME STUDIOS
              • The live-action God of War TV series suffers a huge setback as Kratos actor is injured badly on set and needs to be recast | Eurogamer.net
              • Denshattack! Review - 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

                  29 min
                • Is Physical Gaming Dying? Xbox Layoffs & Black Flag Remake Discussion | Arcade Couch

                  We react to the Instagram comments about Ciaran's comments on last week's episode, discuss the Xbox layoffs and talk about AC: Black Flag.

                  SHOW DOT POINTS

                  • Dylan returns after a two-week break, sparking banter.
                  • The gaming industry is facing more negative news.
                  • Social media reactions to Kieran's comments are intense.
                  • Consumers are upset about corporate control in gaming.
                  • Companies prioritise profit over consumer interests.
                  • The gaming industry struggles with sustainability and layoffs.
                  • Physical media is becoming obsolete in gaming.
                  • Video game conservation is a growing concern.
                  • Consumer behaviour affects game sales and studio viability.
                  • The transition to digital media is inevitable and controversial. Limited-run physical editions may not work for games.
                  • Gamers often justify their digital purchases with physical purchases.
                  • Microtransactions have been a part of gaming for years.
                  • Single-player games with microtransactions shouldn't affect others.
                  • Xbox's restructuring reflects a broader industry trend.
                  • Layoffs are painful but sometimes necessary for survival.
                  • The gaming industry may see fewer AAA titles in the future.
                  • The quality of games may decline as budgets increase.
                  • IO Interactive is refocusing on core titles after losing funding.
                  • The Black Flag remake offers a fresh experience for new players.
                  • YOUR HOSTS

                    🎙️ Dylan Blight
                    🎙️ Ashley Hobley
                    🎙️ Ciaran Marchant

                    RESOURCES
                    • Microsoft announces 3200 layoffs and four studio departures in "most significant" Xbox restructuring in history | Eurogamer.net
                    • IO Interactive regains full ownership of Project Fantasy following end of Xbox deal, shuts down Istanbul studio and lays off developers "to find a new balance" | 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

                        57 min
                      • Playstation Discontinuing Physical Media: Tragedy or Overblow? | Arcade Couch

                        Sony dropped a grenade on the video games industry with the announcement that they will cease making physical discs at the start of 2028. Is this a monumental shift in gaming as we know it or just an overblown bump in an evolving medium?

                        SHOW DOT POINTS

                        • Sony is ending physical disc production in 2028
                        • Impact of digital-only releases on consumers and preservation
                        • Industry layoffs and studio closures at Xbox studios
                        • The future of game ownership and piracy
                        • Potential industry crash and market shifts
                        • Upcoming game adaptations and industry trends
                        • YOUR HOSTS

                          🎙️ Ashley Hobley
                          🎙️ Ciaran Marchant

                          RESOURCES
                          • PlayStation announces it will end physical disc production in 2028, and nobody is happy | ScreenHub: Film, TV, Streaming and Games 
                          • Sony has already started repurposing its lone PlayStation disc factory, and the body of physical gaming isn't even cold 
                          • PS5 fans flock to piracy as Sony plans to ditch physical games
                          • An update on PlayStation Store for PS3 and PS Vita 
                          • 007 First Light developer faces layoffs after Xbox pulls support for upcoming fantasy game
                          • Xbox reportedly stops signing third-party Game Pass deals | Eurogamer.net
                          • ‘Persona’ Live-Action TV Adaptation in the Works at Netflix, 21 Laps & Story Kitchen to Produce (EXCLUSIVE)
                          • Xbox reportedly stops signing third-party Game Pass deals | 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

                              50 min
                            • GTA VI No Disc Drama and Rising Prices Continue | Arcade Couch

                              Grand Theft Auto VI Pre-Orders went live this week with the reveal of the game’s higher-than-average price and the news that it will not be coming out on physical discs. Ashley and Ciaran question if this is a turning point for the industry before discussing the Bungie layoffs, Steam Machine pricing and July 2026 Game releases.

                              SHOW DOT POINTS

                              • GTA 6 pricing and digital release strategy
                              • The decline of physical game media
                              • Bungie layoffs and studio restructuring
                              • Upcoming game releases in July 2026
                              • YOUR HOSTS

                                🎙️ Ashley Hobley
                                🎙️ Ciaran Marchant

                                RESOURCES
                                • Grand Theft Auto 6's Physical Editions Won't Include A Disc
                                • Rockstar Games Has No Plans for GTA 6 Physical Disc Version, Says Report 
                                • Here's The Aussie Grand Theft Auto 6 Prices
                                • Grand Theft Auto 6 Is A Single Player Experience With No Online Multiplayer 
                                • Bungie Has Been Hit By Significant Layoffs From The Destiny And Marathon Teams
                                • Xbox Series X|S Consoles Just Got Another Massive Price Increase
                                • What Video Games Are Coming Out in July 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

                                    59 min
                                  • Xbox Studio Closures, Double Fine & Ninja Theory Concerns + GTA VI Cover Reveal | Arcade Couch

                                    We discuss Xbox reportedly closing several of its studios, and what it did wrong to get to this point.

                                    SHOW DOT POINTS

                                    • Xbox's recent studio closures reflect a troubling trend in the gaming industry.
                                    • Xbox's acquisition strategy has led to significant studio instability.
                                    • GTA VI's cover reveal demonstrates the game's cultural significance.
                                    • The gaming community is often left disappointed by corporate decisions.
                                    • Double Fine's potential closure raises questions about creative freedom in gaming.
                                    • Subscription models may not be sustainable for game development.
                                    • The Adventures of Elliot offers a unique gameplay experience but has flaws.
                                    • Voice acting quality can significantly impact player experience.
                                    • The importance of narrative depth in video games is highlighted.
                                    • Community engagement is crucial for the future of gaming discussions.
                                    • YOUR HOSTS

                                      🎙️ Dylan Blight
                                      🎙️ Ashley Hobley

                                      RESOURCES
                                      • Xbox Is Reportedly About To Shut Down South Of Midnight Studio Compulsion Games Alongside Other Studios
                                      • The Grand Theft Auto 6 Pre-Order Date And Cover Art Have Been Revealed
                                      • Lost Castle 2 Review - 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

                                          34 min
                                        • Did Xbox Win Summer Game Fest? Nintendo Direct & Xbox Showcase Reactions | Arcade Couch

                                          We discuss the Xbox Games Showcase and the Nintendo Direct that were part of Summer Game Fest 2026 week.

                                          SHOW DOT POINTS

                                          • Summer Game Fest has replaced E3 as the main gaming showcase.
                                          • September is packed with game releases, making it a busy month for gamers.
                                          • The hosts express mixed feelings about the Wolverine game being more linear.
                                          • Kieran shares excitement for the game Dawn of the Bloodwalker.
                                          • The gaming community is buzzing with anticipation for upcoming titles.
                                          • Predictions for game announcements can lead to surprising outcomes.
                                          • The hosts reflect on their gaming experiences and recent titles they've played.
                                          • Nintendo Direct revealed several new games and expansions for the Switch.
                                          • The conversation highlights the importance of game reviews in a crowded market.
                                          • Kieran wins the predictions game, showcasing his knowledge of upcoming titles. Jiu-Jitsu Kaisen is a unique blend of genres.
                                          • Nintendo's remastering strategy keeps its classics relevant.
                                          • Final Fantasy is embracing a new art style with 2D HD.
                                          • Splatoon is introducing single-player elements to its gameplay.
                                          • Kingdom Hearts 4 is generating excitement for its release.
                                          • The Ocarina of Time remake is highly anticipated by fans.
                                          • The Xbox showcase featured impressive new titles and gameplay.
                                          • Fable's new mechanics offer deeper player interactions.
                                          • Halo is expanding its campaign with new missions.
                                          • Persona 4 Revival aims to attract both new and returning players. The ending of Persona Five has significant changes that impact the narrative.
                                          • Updates in gaming often signal a winding down of developer support.
                                          • New trailers for upcoming games generate excitement among fans.
                                          • Cult-themed games are becoming more popular in multiplayer formats.
                                          • Ninja Theory's future hinges on the success of Senua's Saga.
                                          • DLCs can be challenging for players who have forgotten the game mechanics.
                                          • Generative AI is being used to enhance game development processes.
                                          • Xbox's anniversary collection showcases nostalgia for long-time fans.
                                          • Australian game development is gaining recognition with new titles.
                                          • The pacing of game showcases can affect audience engagement.
                                          • YOUR HOSTS

                                            🎙️ Dylan Blight
                                            🎙️ Ashley Hobley
                                            🎙️ Ciaran Marchant

                                            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

                                              1 hr 19 min
                                            • Summer Games Fest 2026 and Playstation State of Play Recap | Arcade Couch

                                              We recap Summer Game Fest and the PlayStation State of Play.

                                              YOUR HOSTS

                                              🎙️ Dylan Blight
                                              🎙️ Ashley Hobley

                                              EPISODE TIMECODES

                                              00:00:00 - Intro

                                              00:01:25 - Summer Games Fest Recap

                                              00:58:20 - PlayStation State of Play Recap

                                              01:33:11 - Outro

                                              RESOURCES
                                              • Everything Announced At Summer Game Fest 2026 - Explosion Network 
                                              • Everything Announced During PlayStation’s Massive June 2026 State Of Play - 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

                                                  1 hr 35 min
                                                • Summer Game Fest 2026 Predictions: Elder Scrolls VI, Resident Evil & More | Arcade Couch

                                                  We give our annual Summer Game Fest predictions and also give first impressions of 007: First Light.

                                                  YOUR HOSTS

                                                  🎙️ Dylan Blight
                                                  🎙️ Ashley Hobley
                                                  🎙️ Ciaran Marchant

                                                  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

                                                    49 min
                                                  • Destiny 2’s Future, PlayStation State of Play Predictions & Forza Horizon 6 Impressions | Arcade Couch

                                                    We discuss Destiny's future, GTA VI release date, and Ciaran has impressions of Forza Horizon 6.

                                                    SHOW DOT POINTS

                                                    • Destiny 2 is ending support, marking a significant moment for the franchise.
                                                    • Bungie's future projects may focus on new IPs under PlayStation's ownership.
                                                    • The PlayStation State of Play event is set to showcase major upcoming titles.
                                                    • Forza Horizon 6 offers a rich exploration of Japanese culture and car culture.
                                                    • The hosts express concern over the future of Bungie and its franchises.
                                                    • PlayStation's strategy may shift back to focusing on single-player experiences.
                                                    • The gaming industry is competitive, with many titles vying for player attention.
                                                    • The importance of maintaining player engagement in live service games is emphasised.
                                                    • Forza Horizon 6 is praised for its gameplay and soundtrack.
                                                    • The hosts speculate on potential announcements at the State of Play event. Cirarn lent his Steam Deck to a friend for gaming.
                                                    • Xbox has officially rebranded to all caps based on fan feedback.
                                                    • Matthew Ball joins Xbox to address market challenges.
                                                    • The gaming industry is competing with gambling and social media for attention.
                                                    • GTA 6 is expected to release on November 19, 2026.
                                                    • The hosts speculate on the impact of new leadership at Xbox.
                                                    • There is a growing trend of multiplayer games over single-player experiences.
                                                    • The excitement for single-player games among younger audiences is declining.
                                                    • Cirarn plans to take time off to play GTA 6 upon release.
                                                    • The hosts discuss the potential purchase of a PS5 Pro.
                                                    • YOUR HOSTS

                                                      🎙️ Dylan Blight
                                                      🎙️ Ashley Hobley
                                                      🎙️ Ciaran Marchant

                                                      RESOURCES
                                                      • After numerous delays, new GTA 6 pre-order leaks suggest November release date finally locked in, and further delays unlikely
                                                      • Xbox is now XBOX, apparently | Eurogamer.net
                                                      • Xbox hires analyst who said games were losing the attention battle with gambling, crypto and porn as chief strategy officer in another leadership revamp | Eurogamer.net
                                                      • A 60+ Minute PlayStation State Of Play Has Been Revealed And Here's All The Aussie Times
                                                      • Bungie Is Ending Support For Destiny 2 To Focus On New Projects
                                                      • 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

                                                          48 min

                                                        About Arcade Couch

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

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