Crystal Core Radio

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Crystal Core Radio podcast! In today's episode, Brian returns as your co-host alongside Chris and Chrono, with special guest Chili. We kick things off by reflecting on last week's spoiler-free deep dive into Final Fantasy XIV Dawntrail, which featured insightful perspectives from Elio and Chili. If you're avoiding spoilers but still want to stay updated, be sure to catch that episode.

This week, we celebrate a milestone of crossing 60,000 downloads, thanks to our dedicated listeners. The team discusses their current gaming adventures, from soft-modding the Wii U and playing Twilight Princess HD to diving back into Fortnite and Final Fantasy XIV. We also touch on the challenges of balancing new and old games and the nostalgia of titles like Age of Empires and Minecraft.

Our main topic of discussion revolves around the recent price hike of Microsoft's Game Pass. We explore the implications of the new standard tier, which excludes day-one releases for console players, and the FTC's reaction to this change. The panel shares their thoughts on the potential impact on consumers, the value of family plans, and the missed opportunities for adding more value to the Ultimate tier, such as including subscriptions to popular MMOs like World of Warcraft.

We then shift our focus to No Man's Sky and its latest 5.0 update, which brings it closer in visual fidelity to the upcoming title, Light No Fire. We discuss the impressive eight-year journey of No Man's Sky, the team's commitment to free updates, and the excitement around Light No Fire's promise of a fully rendered planet-size open world. The conversation also delves into the potential benefits of early access for Light No Fire and the innovative reuse of existing assets to create new gaming experiences.

Finally, we wrap up the episode with a challenging game of 20 Questions, where the panel tries to guess a nostalgic N64 game. Tune in to find out if they can identify the game and join us for some fun and laughter along the way.

Don't miss this engaging episode filled with gaming insights, industry news, and a trip down memory lane. Thank you for being a part of our journey, and we look forward to bringing you more exciting content in the future!

Welcome to another exciting episode where we dive deep into the latest expansion of Final Fantasy XIV, "Dawn Trail." Join our hosts as they share their initial impressions and experiences with the game, highlighting its fresh and compelling content.

We kick off with a lively discussion about the positive reception of "Dawn Trail," with hosts expressing their enjoyment and ranking it among their top three expansions. Without delving into spoiler territory, they explore whether this new chapter sets up a saga on the scale of the Heidelyn and Zodiark storyline or if it will take more time to find its footing. The consensus is clear: "Dawn Trail" has confidently laid the groundwork for a promising future.

Shifting gears, the conversation moves to the game mechanics, including class changes and battle content. While some players find the class refinements to be a bit dull, others appreciate the subtle improvements and the increased difficulty in dungeon mechanics, which now demand more attention and skill.

The graphics update is another hot topic, with hosts marveling at the enhanced visuals. They discuss how the improved lighting, textures, and volumetric fog have transformed the game's look and feel, making older content appear fresh and inviting. This graphical overhaul is seen as a significant win for both new and returning players.

Our hosts also delve into their personal gaming goals, from leveling up all jobs to 100 to preparing for upcoming content like the alliance raid and the much-anticipated Beast Tamer class. They share their excitement for future updates and speculate on potential new features, including the possibility of new races and jobs in the next expansion.

In a lighter segment, they reminisce about their early gaming experiences, touching on the nostalgia of playing classic titles on systems like the N64. This trip down memory lane sets the stage for a fun and challenging game of 20 Questions, where they successfully guess the classic game "Banjo-Kazooie."

Tune in to hear all this and more as our hosts celebrate the launch of "Dawn Trail" and look forward to the adventures that lie ahead in Final Fantasy XIV.

Join us for another exciting episode of the Crystal Core Radio Podcast! This week, we kick things off with an incredible story from Chris about his recent ultra-marathon adventure. Chris recounts the challenges and triumphs of completing a grueling 50-mile mountain trail race, complete with anecdotes about elevation changes, aid stations, and the physical toll on his body. It's a tale of perseverance and determination that you won't want to miss.

Following the marathon saga, we delve into a thought-provoking discussion on game accessibility, sparked by recent comments from Alana Pierce. We explore the balance between making games accessible to a wider audience and maintaining the intended challenge and experience. The conversation touches on the nuances of situational disabilities, the impact of societal norms on game design, and the practicalities of implementing accessibility features in multiplayer games like Final Fantasy XIV.

Speaking of Final Fantasy XIV, we share our initial impressions of the newly released Dawntrail expansion. From the smooth launch experience to the new jobs—Pictomancer and Viper—we break down what's exciting and what might need some tweaks. We also discuss the game's highest concurrent player numbers since A Realm Reborn and what that means for the community. Whether you're deep into the MSQ or just starting out, there's something here for every Warrior of Light.

In addition, we touch on the uncertain future of Blue Protocol, the MMORPG from Bandai Namco. With speculation about its possible cancellation and comparisons to games like Lost Ark, we weigh in on what might be next for this highly anticipated title.

Finally, we wrap up the episode with our popular 20 Questions game, where Chris and Chili try to guess a classic RPG from the 80s. It's a fun and engaging segment that puts their gaming knowledge to the test.

Don't miss out on this packed episode filled with personal stories, deep dives into game mechanics, and the latest gaming news. Tune in, and let's explore the world of gaming together!

Follow Chris at Twitch and YouTube.

Follow Chili at Twitch and YouTube.

Hello everyone and welcome to another episode of the Crystal Core Radio Podcast, The Roundtable. Joining me today are GamingKinda, Chrono, and Chili. We have an exciting discussion ahead as we delve into what Chili has aptly named the "Year of MMOs." We'll talk about the latest MMO releases, updates, and what we're playing and looking forward to in the upcoming weeks.

First up, Chrono kicks things off by sharing his recent adventures with Wind Waker HD and his hopes for Nintendo announcements. We dive into the state of the Wii U and the challenges of keeping older consoles functional. This segues into our comprehensive discussion on the latest Nintendo Direct event, where we cover exciting announcements like Metroid Prime 4, the new Zelda game, and other Nintendo classics making a comeback.

Chili joins in to talk about his recent experiences with ESO (Elder Scrolls Online) and the challenges of balancing game time with real-life commitments. We also discuss the implications of WoW (World of Warcraft) potentially going cross-realm and cross-faction with guilds, and what this means for the future of MMOs.

Chris shares his intense week of running 66.7 miles and how he's managing to squeeze in some gaming time amidst his busy schedule. We also touch on the intriguing concept of single-player MMOs and the community-driven dynamics of sandbox games like Pax Dei. Brian adds his insights on the early access phase of Pax Dei and the mixed reactions from the community.

We then pivot to the significant news from New World, which announced its upcoming release on consoles with cross-play capabilities. We discuss whether this could be New World's "Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn" moment and the community's mixed reactions to the announcement. We also explore the potential benefits of integrating with services like Game Pass and PlayStation Plus.

Lastly, we engage in a fun round of 20 Questions, where the panelists try to guess a classic game from Brian's clues. Tune in to find out if they can crack the mystery!

Don't miss this episode packed with in-depth discussions, exciting news, and nostalgic moments. Whether you're a fan of MMOs, Nintendo classics, or looking forward to new game releases, this episode has something for everyone.

Where to Find Us:

• GamingKinda on Twitch and YouTube

Join us next week for more exciting discussions, and be sure to follow us on your favorite platforms to stay updated!

Welcome to another exciting episode of Crystal Core Radio! This week, we dive into the latest revelations from the Final Fantasy XIV Media Tour. With a plethora of updates, insights, and speculations, this episode is packed with valuable information for both new and veteran players.

Our special guest, Elio, kicks off the discussion by sharing his current gaming adventures, including an intriguing plush goblin that you definitely need to check out in the video version of the podcast. We then delve into the Media Tour, dissecting the details, interviews, and the overall impression it left on the community.

Chris provides an in-depth analysis of the interviews, expressing both his admiration and frustrations with the questions asked. We explore the behind-the-scenes insights that Yoshi-P shared, particularly about the possibility of a Latin American data center and the technical advancements that make it easier to spin up new servers.

The conversation takes an interesting turn as we discuss the competitive landscape of MMOs, especially with the upcoming releases of major expansions for games like World of Warcraft, ESO, and Guild Wars 2. We also touch on the recent revelation that New World is coming to consoles, adding another layer of excitement to the MMO community.

Chilly brings to light the unique approach of the new EU data center, Shadow, which will be available for data center travel to mitigate congestion. This innovative solution sparks a lively discussion on server management and player experience.

We then shift our focus to the specific updates and changes coming to Final Fantasy XIV with the Dawntrail expansion. From the dual dye system to the anticipated graphical updates, there's a lot to look forward to. We also ponder the future of job actions and the potential for new playable races, as hinted by Yoshi-P.

As we wrap up the main discussion, we dive into a fun round of 20 Questions, where the hosts try to guess a game from the 1990s. Tune in to see if they can figure it out before the questions run out!

Join us for a deep dive into the world of Final Fantasy XIV and beyond, filled with thoughtful analysis, humor, and community insights. Don't forget to check out the video version to see Elio's adorable plush goblin!

Catch us live for the next episode and stay updated with all the latest in the MMO world. Thanks for listening!

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Crystal Core Radio podcast! This week, our hosts Brian, Mark, Crono, and Chili dive deep into the latest gaming news and updates. We kick things off with an in-depth discussion about the recent State of Play event. Mark shares his thoughts on the highlights, including the announcement of Path of Exile 2 for PlayStation and the upcoming release of V Rising for the console.

Crono reflects on his experience with Tears of the Kingdom and his surprise at the State of Play announcements. Meanwhile, Chili brings us up to speed on the latest happenings in Final Fantasy 14, including the return of beloved events like the Yo-Kai Watch and Dragon Quest crossovers.

The episode takes a nostalgic turn as the team discusses the exciting news of Final Fantasy 14's next Alliance Raid series, which will transport players to the world of Vana’diel from Final Fantasy XI. Speculations run wild about what this crossover could mean for the future of the game and the potential for more exploratory zones tied to Vana’diel.

As we gear up for the Summer Games Fest, the hosts share their hopes and predictions for upcoming announcements. From the possible console release of New World to updates on Blue Protocol and Throne of Liberty, there's plenty to look forward to. The team also expresses their excitement for Nintendo's potential reveals, with a particular interest in the return of classic titles like Wind Waker.

The episode concludes with a fun round of 20 Questions, where the hosts work together to guess the mystery game. Spoiler alert: It's Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver! Tune in to see how they piece together the clues and enjoy the camaraderie of the Crystal Core Radio team.

Don't miss this jam-packed episode full of gaming insights, nostalgia, and community spirit. Whether you're a die-hard gamer or a casual fan, there's something here for everyone. Enjoy the show!

Welcome to this episode of the Crystal Core Radio Podcast! Join Brian and the Roundtable as they delve into the latest gaming news and rumors, including the much-anticipated Dawntrail expansion and its exciting new features. Chris shares his streaming updates, while Mark and Chili discuss their current gaming endeavors and prep for upcoming releases.

The team also debates the controversial topic of Xbox potentially acquiring Steam for $16 billion, examining the implications and plausibility of such a move. Finally, don't miss the intense game of 20 Questions where the hosts tackle a challenging mystery game from the 90s. Will they guess it right? Tune in to find out!

Featuring: Brian, Chris, Mark, Chili, and Cole

Dive into the captivating world of gaming as the Crystal Court Radio Podcast team sheds light on the latest industry news, trends, and innovative shifts. From sharing personal gaming experiences to poignant discussions about major developers, small-scale studios, rising costs, and layoffs, this episode cuts through the noise, providing you a front-row seat into the ever-evolving gaming arena.

Delve into an in-depth exploration of the dynamics shaping the gaming industry and Microsoft's baffling decisions to shut down studios, the alarming trend of job losses, and the current boom in AAA gaming economy. Discuss management issues, corporate maneuvers, and the impact of wrenching industry shifts on passionate creators and smaller teams.

Join thought-provoking conversations examining the potential of AI in limitless gaming innovation and the implications of diverse corporate strategies, mergers, and layoffs that reverberate across the gaming sector. Understand significant changes in developer's costs, strategies of gaming powerhouses like Apple and Nintendo, and the possibilities of a console-PC hybrid model.

Learn about the intricate challenges, contemporary shifts, and upcoming releases that excite the global gaming community. Marvel at the enchanting world of DLSS, appreciate Nintendo's ingenious integration, and share a riveting game of 20 questions that tests and celebrates your love for the gaming world.

Concluding with insights into treating gaming intellectual properties, monetization strategies, and Western-Eastern gaming dynamics, this episode presents a critical and balanced view on what lies in the future for this fervently imaginative industry.

Dive into the electrifying realm of online gaming as we discuss the highly-anticipated Final Fantasy 14 Dawn Trail, engage in deep revelations about unique streamer experiences, and share hilarious gaming anecdotes. This episode highlights the well-received early access game 'No Rest for The Wicked’, exploring its exciting battle system and the designed freedom it lends to players. We also have a high-octane discussion about 'Helldivers 2' and its challenging aspects, making this episode a blend of meaningful RPG debates and playful talks about unforgettable gaming moments.

Beyond the thrill of RPGs, we embark on an exhilarating exploration of the highly anticipated Ori series game and the convention bending title PaxDie. We delve into their unique development aspects, including their roadmap, DLC's, and multiplayer updates. Additionally, we transition into the realm of survival games, notably the upcoming PaxDie. The enticing gaming dynamics like land claim, structure building, and sandbox-oriented gameplay, appeal to a select group of gamers seeking a unique thrill.

Touching on wider industry movements, we discuss the changing landscape of gaming conventions, notably focusing on the recent cancelation of BlizzCon 2024. We critique the indecision of Blizzard's decisions on its conventions, highlight the benefits of focussed game announcements, and rapidly transition into discussing the personal fitness journeys of our hosts and their recent accomplishments. The episode wraps up with an eager anticipation for future Final Fantasy XIV expansions and other exciting changes.

From comprehensive gaming discussions to personal wellness journeys, enjoy this compelling episode that perfectly marries hard-hitting analyses and light-hearted banter!