Arcade Couch

Arcade Couch

By Explosion NetworkLeisureVideo Games
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Arcade Couch episodes

  • PlayStation 6 Already?! Breaking Down the Leak + September Games

    There are rumours of the PlayStation 6 behind a handheld/hybrid console. Are we really ready to start talking about the next generation of consoles already?

    Show Dot Points

    • September is shaping up to be a big month for gaming.
    • The PlayStation 6 portable is rumoured to be more powerful than the PS5.
    • There is a perceived lack of standout titles for the PS5 generation.
    • Game development timelines have stretched significantly in recent years.
    • Hollow Knight: Silksong's release has caused a ripple effect in the gaming industry.
    • Indie developers face challenges when major titles are released.
    • The identity of PlayStation consoles is in question with the PS5.
    • The gaming landscape is influenced by external factors like tariffs and market conditions.
    • There is a need for new IPs in the current gaming generation.
    • The anticipation for upcoming titles is high, but the release schedule is crowded. Indie games face tough competition in a crowded market.
    • Skate's early access model raises questions about monetisation.
    • September 2023 is packed with exciting game releases.
    • Hollow Knight: Silksong is highly anticipated by fans.
    • EA's history suggests potential microtransactions in Skate.
    • The gaming community is eager for the return of beloved franchises.
    • Personal preferences play a significant role in gaming excitement.
    • Curiosity about new titles can lead to mixed expectations.
    • The hosts share a light-hearted banter about gaming habits.
    • The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of video games.

      • Hosts:

      Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil
      Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
      Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

      Resources

      • A PlayStation 6 Portable Is Apparently On The Way With More Base Power Than A PS5 When Docked
      • Hollow Knight: Silksong September Launch Shakes Up Indie Game Schedule - Explosion Network
      • EA’s Skate Early Access Launches September 16 on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox - Explosion Network
      • What Video Games Are Coming Out in September 2025? - 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
              • 45 min
            • Mafia: The Old Country Impressions & Everything from Gamescom ONL

              We discuss our first impressions of Mafia: The Old Country, the fourth entry in the series; we also take a look at everything that was announced during Gamescom - Opening Night Live 2025.

              Show Dot Points

              • The hosts express excitement about the upcoming release of Hollow Knight: Silksong.
              • Gamescom showcased a variety of new games and trailers, generating buzz among fans.
              • Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 aims to innovate with a new campaign structure.
              • The Lego Batman game promises to incorporate elements from various Batman media.
              • Anime adaptations of video games are becoming more common, with mixed reactions from fans.
              • The Fallout series continues to expand with a new season, delving deeper into character backstories.
              • The hosts share their thoughts on the Deadpool VR game and its potential success.
              • Zero Parades is generating interest despite concerns about the development team.
              • The Unbeatable game combines music and narrative in a unique way.
              • Overall, the conversation highlights the evolving landscape of video games and their adaptations. Silent Hill F showcases a new direction for the franchise.
              • The Divine Comedy offers a unique art style and gameplay experience.
              • Vampire: The Masquerade- Bloodlines 2 has faced numerous delays but remains highly anticipated.
              • Game trailers reveal a mix of horror, RPG, and action elements.
              • Mafia: The Old Country returns to a more narrative-driven style of gameplay.
              • The importance of character development in engaging players.
              • The evolution of gaming genres is evident in upcoming titles.
              • Game announcements create excitement and anticipation among fans.
              • The balance between gameplay mechanics and storytelling is crucial.
              • The hosts share personal insights and humour throughout the discussion.
                •  

                Hosts:

                Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil
                Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
                Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

                Resources

                • Kirby Air Riders Release Date Has Been Revealed Alongside A Heap Of New Info
                • Gamescom Opening Night Live 2025: All the Announcements and Trailers - Explosion Network
                • https://press-start.com.au/news/playstation/2025/08/22/hollow-knight-silksong-just-got-a-release-date-and-its-just-a-few-weeks-away/

                  • 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
                        • 55 min
                      • Battlefield 6 Impressions + Opening Night Live Is This Week

                        Battlefield 6 took over the gaming world with huge numbers on Steam, but does Ciaran think it will outperform this year’s Call of Duty? Additionally, we preview Opening Night Live and discuss our growing anticipation for PAX AUS 2025.

                        Hosts:

                        Ashley Hobley: https://bsky.app/profile/ashleyhobley.bsky.social
                        Ciaran Marchant: https://bsky.app/profile/en-ringo.bsky.social  

                        Episode Timecodes

                        00:00:00 - Hello
                        00:00:37 - Battlefield 6 Beta Impressions
                        00:10:52 - Opening Night Live Preview
                        00:21:08 - PAX AUS 2025 Anticipation
                        00:26:01 - Goodbye

                         

                        Resources

                        • The Battlefield 6 beta becomes the biggest thing for Battlefield ever on Steam, going beyond even Call of Duty | VG247 
                        • Geoff Keighley Confirms 7 Games Set for ONL on Tuesday Alongside Fallout Season 2 and a Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Music Performance - IGN 

                          • 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
                                • 28 min
                              • Contraband Cancelled: Another Xbox Exclusive Bites the Dust!

                                Xbox has cancelled another game, and we discuss if anyone remembers Contraband. Plus, there are rumours for the Xbox ROG Ally release date, which could lead to the same for Hollow Knight: Silksong.

                                Show Dot Points

                                • The anticipation for GTA 6 is palpable among gamers.
                                • Hollow Knight: Silksong continues to be a hot topic.
                                • The distribution of review codes often controls game reviews.
                                • Nintendo Indie World showcases a variety of indie games.
                                • The cancellation of Contraband raises questions about Xbox's strategy.
                                • Childhood fears related to water levels in games are common.
                                • Game mechanics can significantly impact player experience.
                                • The indie game scene is thriving with innovative titles.
                                • Industry trends suggest a shift in game development strategies.
                                • The hosts share personal anecdotes that resonate with many gamers. Open-world games have evolved, but some repetitiveness remains.
                                • Handheld consoles are gaining popularity, especially with the Xbox branding.
                                • Hollow Knight: Silksong is highly anticipated and will be showcased at events.
                                • Sony's live service strategy has faced significant challenges and cancellations.
                                • The Drifter offers a unique gaming experience with a compelling story.
                                • The excitement for new gaming devices is palpable among gamers.
                                • Xbox's branding may attract a broader audience to handheld gaming.
                                • The narrative depth in games like The Drifter enhances player engagement.
                                • Live service games require careful planning to avoid failures.
                                • The gaming community is eager for more single-player experiences.

                                  • Hosts:

                                  Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil
                                  Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
                                  Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

                                  Episode Timecodes

                                  00:00:00 - Hello

                                  00:02:00 - Discussing Review Codes
                                  00:05:45 - Nintendo Indie World Showcase Recap
                                  00:17:40 - Xbox Cancels Contraband
                                  00:24:00 - Xbox ROG Ally Release Date & Hollow Knight: Silk Song Rumours
                                  00:30:10 - Sony Admits PlayStation Live Service Strategy Isn't Going Great
                                  00:41:10 - The Drifter Review
                                  00:46:40 - Goodbye

                                  Resources

                                  • Nintendo's Indie World Showcase - here's everything announced | Eurogamer.net

                                  • Development On The Xbox Exclusive Co-Op Game Contraband Has Stopped

                                  • Official Xbox handheld console ROG Ally gets a release date, courtesy of reliable leaker | Eurogamer.net

                                  • After Concord and a string of delays and cancellations, Sony admits PlayStation's live-service strategy is "not entirely going smoothly" | 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:

                                        • http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion
                                          • 48 min
                                        • Nintendo Partner Direct + THQ Nordic 2025 – What Stood Out?

                                          Dylan and Ashley discuss the THQ Nordic Showcase and the Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase, both of which aired in the last week, delivering new updates and game reveals.

                                          Show Dot Points

                                          • The hosts share their excitement for upcoming video game showcases.
                                          • PAX preparations are discussed, highlighting early planning and travel logistics.
                                          • THQ Nordic's showcase featured a variety of new game announcements and trailers.
                                          • The Nintendo Direct was perceived as underwhelming compared to THQ Nordic's showcase.
                                          • Battlefield 6's multiplayer reveal sparked cautious optimism among fans.
                                          • The PAX 2025 Indie Showcase winners showcased a diverse range of innovative games.
                                          • Trivia Deal stood out as a unique concept among the indie games.
                                          • The hosts reflect on the nostalgia factor in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 Plus 4.
                                          • The importance of community and social interaction in gaming is emphasised.
                                          • The episode wraps up with a call to action for listener engagement.

                                            • Hosts:

                                            Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil
                                            Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
                                            Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

                                            Episode Timecodes

                                            00:00:00 - Hello

                                            00:01:15 - This Week On The Show
                                            00:03:50 - THQ Nordic Showcase Recap
                                            00:23:45 - Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase Recap
                                            00:33:00 - Battlefield 6 Multiplayer Reveal
                                            00:39:30 - PAX AUS Indie Showcase 2025 Winners
                                            00:47:15 - Goodbye

                                            Resources

                                            • Everything Announced at the THQ Nordic 2025 Showcase - Explosion Network
                                            • Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025: All Trailers & Announcements - Explosion Network
                                            • Battlefield 6 Multiplayer Reveal Highlights Return of Classic Class System & Destruction - Explosion Network
                                            • PAX AUS 2025 Indie Showcase Winners Announced - Explosion Network
                                            • Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 Review - 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
                                                    • 49 min
                                                  • Pokémon Presents 2025 Reactions + Battlefield 6 Reveal Breakdown!

                                                    We discuss the 2025 Pokémon Presents and the reveal of Battlefield 6.

                                                    Hosts:

                                                    Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil
                                                    Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
                                                    Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

                                                    Resources

                                                    • Battlefield 6's Reveal Trailer Has Dropped Alongside A Leaked Release Date

                                                    • July 2025 Pokémon Presents: Every Game Trailer and Announcement - Explosion Network

                                                    • Dying Light: The Beast Delayed to September 19, 2025 - Explosion Network

                                                    • https://explosionnetwork.com/sony-makes-strategic-2-5-investment-in-bandai-namco

                                                    • Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival Revealed in Official Announcement Trailer - Explosion Network

                                                    • Directive 8020 Postponed as Supermassive Games Restructures - Explosion Network

                                                    • Wolfenstein is the next game series to get an adaptation for TV | 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:

                                                          • http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion
                                                            • 46 min
                                                          • Donkey Kong Bonanza Is One of 2025’s Best Games – No Questions

                                                            Dylan talks about his time with Donkey Kong Bananza, which has turned into a surprise and one of the year's best games.

                                                            Hosts:

                                                            Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil
                                                            Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley

                                                            Resources

                                                            • Upcoming Zelda Film Names Its Link and Zelda Stars - Explosion Network
                                                            • Battlefield 6 is seemingly just called Battlefield 6, according to leaked packages sent to content creators that might signal a reveal from EA soon

                                                              • 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
                                                                    • 43 min
                                                                  • Ghost Of Yotei State Of Play Impressions

                                                                    Ashley and Ciaran discuss updates on Dune: Awakening, the unique gameplay of Date Everything!, and insights from the recent State of Play for Ghost of Yotei.

                                                                    Show Dot Points

                                                                    • Ciaran has been playing Date Everything! on his Steam Deck.
                                                                    • Dune: Awakening has had some recent updates and patches.
                                                                    • Ghost of Yotei had a gameplay deep dive on State of Play
                                                                    • The Last of Us Part II remastered introduces a new chronological mode.
                                                                    • Subnautica 2's development is facing significant delays and legal issues.

                                                                      • Hosts:

                                                                      Ashley Hobley: https://bsky.app/profile/ashleyhobley.bsky.social Ciaran Marchant: https://bsky.app/profile/en-ringo.bsky.social  

                                                                      Resources

                                                                      • Ghost of Yōtei's gorgeous gameplay deep dive reveals refined combat, lo-fi beats mode, and more - Eurogamer.net 
                                                                      • The Last Of Us Part II Remastered Just Got A New Chronological Mode - Press Start  
                                                                      • SAG-AFTRA approves 2025 Video Game Agreement, officially concluding its strike - Eurogamer.net 
                                                                      • The Subnautica 2 $250M ordeal is getting combative -  Polygon 

                                                                        • Arcade Couch Credits:

                                                                        • Music by: Dylan Blight
                                                                        • Art by: Cherie Henriques
                                                                        • Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

                                                                          • All Episodes:

                                                                          • https://arcadecouch.podbean.com/ 

                                                                            • Support Us:

                                                                            • http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion
                                                                              • 44 min
                                                                            • Perfect Dark, Everwild Canceled as Microsoft Lays Off 9,000 Employees

                                                                              Microsoft lays off over 9.000 employess, and we discuss the effects it has had on Xbox and their development studios.

                                                                              Show Dot Points

                                                                              • Microsoft laid off over 9000 employees, impacting Xbox.
                                                                              • Cancellation of Perfect Dark and Everwild raises concerns.
                                                                              • The gaming industry faces ongoing layoffs and project cancellations.
                                                                              • New studios struggle to succeed in creating AAA games.
                                                                              • Creative processes in gaming differ significantly from film.
                                                                              • Cross-platform gaming is becoming more prevalent.
                                                                              • The importance of established studios in game development.
                                                                              • Industry trends show a shift towards AI and new revenue models.
                                                                              • The departure of key creatives can impact project quality.
                                                                              • Community reactions to industry changes are mixed.

                                                                                • Hosts:

                                                                                Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil
                                                                                Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
                                                                                Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

                                                                                Resources

                                                                                • Perfect Dark and Everwild Cancelled as Microsoft Cuts 9,000 Jobs - Explosion Network
                                                                                • Forza Motorsport "is no more", claims former Turn 10 employee, following Microsoft cuts | Eurogamer.net
                                                                                • Neil Druckmann and Halley Gross Exit HBO’s The Last of Us Series - Explosion Network
                                                                                • Helldivers 2 Becomes First PlayStation-Published Game on Xbox - 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
                                                                                        • 31 min
                                                                                      • Surprise Hit? Why We're So Into Dune: Awakening

                                                                                        Ciaran talks about how much he's enjoying Dune: Awakening, and how it'll get him to watch the films.

                                                                                        Dylan & Ashley also touch on Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, which they've both started playing.

                                                                                        Show Dot Points

                                                                                        • The hosts express excitement about the gaming community and their experiences.
                                                                                        • Death Stranding 2 offers a sweet start with character development.
                                                                                        • Dune: Awakening effectively combines MMO and survival elements.
                                                                                        • The narrative of games can challenge traditional character roles.
                                                                                        • Quality-of-life improvements in games enhance the player experience.
                                                                                        • Community engagement is crucial for multiplayer games.
                                                                                        • The importance of not judging games solely by their trailers.
                                                                                        • Exploration and base building are key components in Dune: Awakening.
                                                                                        • The hosts appreciate the depth of storytelling in modern games.
                                                                                        • Future updates and expansions are anticipated for both games.

                                                                                          • Hosts:

                                                                                          Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil
                                                                                          Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley
                                                                                          Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

                                                                                          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
                                                                                                • 35 min

                                                                                              About Arcade Couch

                                                                                              From the publisher's feed

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

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