In Episode 16 of The Midnight Release Podcast, we’re joined again by Howie and Wayne as we revisit the characters, franchises, and brands that became larger than the games they came from.

Who is the true face of PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo? Which franchises became so iconic they transcended gaming into film, television, and pop culture dominance? And are we losing the era of the true “movie star”?

We explore the evolution of gaming icons, legendary franchises, and unforgettable characters — then shift into Co-op Mode for a discussion on iconic actors and films, before wrapping up with a brand-new segment, Loadout, where we build the ultimate dream night setup.

Whether it’s pixel legends, blockbuster heroes, or cultural symbols, one thing is certain:

Icons never fade.