Through predatory monetisation, rushed development, and profits over player enjoyment, has the joy and escapism of video games been lost?

To give us a walkthrough, we’re joined by Steve Wright, owner and Editor-in-Chief of Stevivor.com, Australia’s leading independent video games outlet.

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In this episode, Steve joins us to explore the profound impact of the internet on the video game industry, discussing both the positive and negative aspects, including the evolution of gaming experiences, the rise of indie games, the dynamics of gaming communities, and the future of gaming in terms of subscription models and AI.

Additionally, the discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by the internet, emphasising the importance of connectivity and community in shaping the gaming landscape.

00:00 Introduction and Journey to Video Game Journalism

02:22 The Impact of the Internet on Gaming

04:31 Games as a Service: Trends and Consumer Behaviour

07:19 Community and Co-op Gaming Experiences

09:12 The Shift from Local to Remote Gaming

11:49 The Evolution of Game Design and Storytelling

15:38 Quality Control and Post-Launch Issues

17:59 Community Feedback and Developer Response

21:27 Indie Games and the Democratisation of Development

23:49 Nostalgia and Preservation of Classic Games

24:45 The Rise of Indie Games and Community Innovation

27:02 Navigating Healthy vs. Toxic Gaming Communities

29:03 The Phenomenon of eSports and Competitive Gaming

31:57 The Impact of Competitive Mindsets on Casual Gaming

34:18 Finding Your Place in the Modern Gaming Landscape

36:46 The Financialisation of Gaming: Microtransactions and Subscriptions

37:57 The Role of Early Access in Game Development

41:00 The Future of Gaming: Subscription Models vs. Ownership

44:16 The Potential of Customised Gaming Experiences

46:10 The Positive Impact of Connectivity on Gaming Culture

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