Plugged Podcast

Plugged Podcast

By Markstrom x SlumBusinessMarketing
Download on the App Store

Plugged Podcast episodes

  • (#46) Strikes in Gaming Industry, Twitch DJ Revolution, & Google Faces Antitrust Ruling

    Join us on Episode 46 of Plugged as we dive into the latest controversies and developments in gaming and tech!

    First, we explore the impact of the SAG-AFTRA strike against the video game industry. Over 160,000 members are now on strike due to disagreements over AI protections for voice and motion actors. This could affect major titles in production, though games developed before August 2023, like GTA6, remain unaffected.
    Next, we delve into the controversy surrounding iShowSpeed's viral stunt of jumping over two cars on a live stream. With accusations of video editing and masking techniques, we question the authenticity of online content and the challenges of distinguishing reality from digital manipulation.
    In the world of streaming, Twitch introduces its new DJ program, allowing DJs to stream music without fear of DMCA issues. By partnering with music labels, Twitch creates a new platform for DJs to grow their online presence.
    We also cover Roll20's integration with Discord, making it easier for Dungeons & Dragons players to connect and play online. This new feature enhances communication and accessibility for the growing community of tabletop gamers.
    In legal news, Google faces a significant antitrust ruling for creating an illegal monopoly by making its search engine the default across devices and browsers. This ruling could lead to substantial changes in the tech industry and impact how search engines compete.
    Finally, we discuss Logitech's quick retraction of their controversial "Forever Mouse" subscription concept after public backlash. This pivot highlights the challenges companies face when proposing innovative yet unpopular ideas.
    Tune in for all this and more as we break down the biggest stories impacting gamers and tech enthusiasts alike!

    1 hr 3 min
  • (#45) Olympic Controversy, Quidditch Champions Revealed, and Another Microsoft Outage

    Join us on Episode 45 of Plugged as we dive into the hottest topics and controversies in gaming and tech!

    First, we explore the backlash against the International Olympic Committee's announcement of the Olympic eSports Games for 2025. While it's exciting news for eSports athletes, the game choices have sparked debate. Popular competitive titles like Counter-Strike, Valorant, and Overwatch are missing, replaced by less mainstream options like Tic Tac Bow and Virtual Regatta. We discuss the implications and the community's reactions.
    Next, we delve into the newly announced Harry Potter Quidditch Champions game by Warner Bros and Unbroken Studios. With a promising gameplay trailer and various modes, could this be the next big hit in sports video games? We also debate the infamous snitch rule in Quidditch and its impact on gameplay.
    In the world of game reviews, IGN is under fire for their glowing preview of Ubisoft's Star Wars Outlaws despite numerous visible bugs and gameplay issues. We examine the role of game reviewers and the trustworthiness of early reviews.
    We also highlight a quick update from the Olympics, where the US Women's Rugby team secured a historic medal with a last-second score.
    In tech news, less than two weeks after the Crowdstrike fiasco, Microsoft 365 experienced another global outage due to a DDOS attack. We discuss the recurring issues and their impact on businesses worldwide.
    Finally, we look at Logitech's innovative concept for a "Forever Mouse" that would require a subscription and software updates, potentially revolutionizing peripheral devices.
    Tune in for all this and more as we break down the biggest stories impacting gamers and tech enthusiasts alike!

    1 hr 8 min
  • Plugged Ep. 44: New Keyboard Controversy, Fortnite's 200-Player Lobbies, and a Major IT Outage

    Join us on Episode 44 of Plugged as we dive into the latest debates and developments in the gaming and tech world!

    First, we explore the controversy surrounding the new “snap tap” feature on the Razer Huntsman keyboards. This feature has sparked outrage in the Counter-Strike community, with many arguing it gives players an unfair advantage similar to banned “null binds.” Is this new feature just another form of cheating?
    Next, we discuss the potential expansion of Fortnite lobbies to 200 players with the capabilities of Unreal Engine 6. Will this new feature enhance the gameplay or make it too chaotic?
    We also cover the massive IT outage caused by a faulty Crowdstrike BIOS update. This update bricked Windows machines worldwide, disrupting critical infrastructure like transportation, banking, and healthcare. Was this our version of Y2K?
    In health news, a new study suggests that the dietary fiber beta-glucan found in oats might offer weight loss benefits similar to the drug Ozempic, but without the side effects. Could oatmeal be the new superfood for weight loss?
    We then look at groundbreaking research from the University of Illinois Chicago on a new antibiotic that makes it nearly impossible for bacteria to develop resistance. Could this be the end of superbugs?
    Tune in for all this and more as we break down the biggest stories impacting gamers and tech enthusiasts alike!

    1 hr 6 min
  • (Plugged #43) NCAA Football Return, Baldur's Gate 3's Award Woes, Minecraft's Hawaiian Masterpiece

    Join us on Episode 43 of Plugged as we dive into the latest buzz in gaming and tech!

    First, we celebrate the return of NCAA Football to consoles after a 10-year hiatus. Fans are thrilled to once again chase their Championship and Heisman dreams in this beloved EA Sports franchise. Despite some bugs and glitches, the excitement is palpable. But with its new features, has it lived up to the hype?
    Next, we explore the unintended consequences of Baldur’s Gate 3's overwhelming success. The game’s avalanche of awards has fragmented the development team, affecting their ability to work on new projects. Despite these challenges, Larian Studios continues to provide major updates, showcasing their dedication and prowess.
    In the world of Minecraft, one dedicated player has recreated the entire Hawaiian Islands, available for download. The sheer scale and detail of this 29 GB map is mind-blowing. Are you ready to explore Hawaii in Minecraft?
    We also discuss the controversy surrounding the blue check mark on Musk's social media platform, X. The EU claims that the changes to the verification system are deceiving users and violating social media regulations. Could this lead to significant changes on the platform?
    Finally, we step outside the tech realm to debate the worst rendition of the National Anthem. Ingrid Andress's recent performance has been widely criticized, with many comparing it to Fergie's infamous rendition. Which one takes the crown for the worst of all time?
    Tune in for all this and more as we break down the biggest stories impacting gamers and tech enthusiasts alike!
    Markstrom
    Twitch -   / markstrom  
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 10 min
  • (Plugged #42) Game Pass Price Hike, AI's Threat to Musicians, and Sonic's New Value Menu

    Join us on Episode 42 of Plugged as we break down the week's most pressing issues and exciting developments in gaming and tech!

    First, we tackle the recent uproar over Microsoft's announcement of a price hike for Xbox Game Pass. Starting in September, Game Pass Ultimate will increase from $16.99 to $19.99 per month, and the standard PC Game Pass will go from $9.99 to $11.99 per month. Is this increase justified by the addition of major titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, or is it a step too far for gamers?
    Next, in a surprising move, Sonic is introducing a $1.99 value menu, offering a respite from the rising costs seen elsewhere in the fast food industry. We discuss the new menu and why Sonic's ice is a fan favorite.
    Meanwhile, Whataburger's app has become an unexpected hero amid Hurricane Beryl's aftermath in Houston, providing locals with updates on power outages based on store closures.
    We also explore the implications of AI in music creation with the release of a new track generated by Udio. Can AI truly capture the passion and creativity of human musicians?
    In the tech world, Xiaomi's new smart factory in China promises to revolutionize smartphone production with a fully automated, worker-free facility capable of producing 60 smartphones per minute.
    Finally, we delve into groundbreaking scientific research that has discovered a new hormone in breastfeeding women, CCN3, which could help accelerate bone healing. This finding could lead to new therapies for promoting bone growth in both sexes.
    Tune in for all this and more as we break down the biggest stories impacting gamers and tech enthusiasts alike!
    Markstrom
    Twitch -   / markstrom  
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 5 min
  • (Plugged #41) Fortnite's Influence on Shooters, Helldivers 2's Player Drop, and Netflix Price Hike

    Join us on Episode 41 of Plugged as we explore the latest controversies and headlines shaking the gaming and tech world!

    First up, we discuss the impact of Fortnite on major shooter titles. Call of Duty's new "Extra Crispy" skin pack, featuring absurd elements like roasting and eating a chicken mounted on a gun, has fans questioning the direction of the genre. Has the success of Fortnite’s cartoonish style led other developers to abandon dark, realistic themes?
    Next, we delve into the surprising player drop for Helldivers 2. Despite being the fastest-selling PlayStation game ever, the game has lost 90% of its PC players. We analyze what went wrong and whether this decline was inevitable given the game's nature and early issues.
    In the streaming world, Netflix is phasing out its cheapest ad-free subscription tier, starting with the UK and Canada. As users are forced to switch to more expensive plans, we discuss the broader implications for the streaming landscape and what it means for subscribers.
    On a lighter note, Sonic is launching a new $1.99 value menu, offering some relief from rising fast food prices. We also touch on the legendary ice in Sonic drinks, a fan favorite.
    Finally, we cover a groundbreaking but controversial development from researchers in China who have wired a robotic body to a working brain. This "wetware" technology raises both exciting possibilities and significant ethical concerns.
    Tune in for all this and more as we break down the biggest stories impacting gamers and tech enthusiasts alike!
    Markstrom
    Twitch -   / markstrom  
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 11 min
  • (Plugged #40) Elden Ring Expansion Hype, Counter-Strike Turns 25, and Adobe's Legal Troubles

    Join us on Episode 40 of Plugged as we dive into the hottest topics in the gaming and tech world!

    First up, we discuss the much-anticipated launch of Elden Ring’s new expansion, Shadow Of the Erdtree. Fans are buzzing with excitement, and streamers like NickMercs and Dr. Disrespect have joined in on the action. But will the expansion live up to the hype?
    Next, we celebrate a gaming milestone: Counter-Strike turns 25 today! This legendary game has captivated players for a quarter-century and shows no signs of slowing down.
    In other news, Twitch is increasing Tier-1 sub pricing across over 30 regions starting July 11th. We break down the impact of this price hike on streamers and subscribers.
    We also revisit Adobe, who is now facing a lawsuit from the US Government over deceptive practices related to their subscription plans. With the backlash from their recent EULA update still fresh, Adobe finds itself in hot water yet again.
    Additionally, we discuss Microsoft’s recall of their controversial Co-Pilot tool following privacy concerns, and the incredible new Disney drone light shows.
    Tune in for all this and more as we break down the biggest stories impacting gamers and tech enthusiasts alike!
    Markstrom
    Twitch -   / markstrom  
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 3 min
  • (Plugged #39) Adobe's Controversial EULA, Bethesda's $7 Mission, & Tooth Regeneration Breakthroughs

    Join us on Episode 39 of Plugged as we tackle the week's most heated topics and exciting developments in the gaming and tech world!

    First, we dive into the uproar caused by Adobe's new End User License Agreement (EULA), which has left creators fuming. The update requires users to agree to terms that allow Adobe to access and use their content, even sensitive material under NDA, sparking widespread outrage and disruptions across industries.
    Next, we look at Bethesda's latest controversy with Starfield. The new update includes a single mission priced at $7, raising eyebrows and fueling further discontent among gamers who already feel let down by the game.
    In tech innovations, we discuss the promising new developments in tooth regeneration. Japanese researchers are moving forward with human trials on a drug that could potentially regrow teeth, a breakthrough that could revolutionize dental care by 2030.
    Plus, we cover IKEA's unique job offer in their virtual Roblox store and Twitch's upcoming subscription price increase.
    Tune in for all this and more as we break down the biggest stories impacting gamers and tech enthusiasts alike!
    Markstrom
    Twitch -   / markstrom  
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 8 min
  • (Plugged #38) Activision's Big Win Against Cheaters, Valve Controversy, and Google's AI Blunders

    Join us on Episode 37 of Plugged for an intense ride through the latest controversies and breakthroughs in the gaming and tech world! First up, we delve into the fiery reactions to Ninja Theory’s "Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II." Despite its breathtaking visuals, the game has stirred a heated debate over its brief gameplay duration and cinematic focus, leaving gamers questioning its $50 price tag. Is it a groundbreaking masterpiece or just a cinematic short with little replay value? Dive into the discussion with us.

    Next, we explore the emerging competitor in the survival game genre, "Arena Breakout Infinite," which has the Tarkov community buzzing. Has it truly rattled Battlestate Games' Nikita Buyanov? We discuss the implications of this new rivalry and what it means for the future of hardcore survival games.
    In tech news, Neuralink faces a significant setback as Nolan Arbaugh reports a disheartening malfunction in his brain-computer interface. What does this mean for the future of Neuralink and similar technologies?
    Lastly, don't miss our take on the latest in AI innovation with IYO’s smart earbuds—could this be the solution to tuning out unwanted noise?
    Tune in for all this and more as we break down the biggest stories impacting gamers and tech enthusiasts alike.
    Markstrom
    Twitch -   / markstrom  
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    58 min
  • (Plugged #37) Hellblade II Sparks Debate, Arena Breakout Shakes Up Tarkov, & Neuralink Hits a Snag

    Join us on Episode 37 of Plugged for an intense ride through the latest controversies and breakthroughs in the gaming and tech world! First up, we delve into the fiery reactions to Ninja Theory’s "Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II." Despite its breathtaking visuals, the game has stirred a heated debate over its brief gameplay duration and cinematic focus, leaving gamers questioning its $50 price tag. Is it a groundbreaking masterpiece or just a cinematic short with little replay value? Dive into the discussion with us.

    Next, we explore the emerging competitor in the survival game genre, "Arena Breakout Infinite," which has the Tarkov community buzzing. Has it truly rattled Battlestate Games' Nikita Buyanov? We discuss the implications of this new rivalry and what it means for the future of hardcore survival games.
    In tech news, Neuralink faces a significant setback as Nolan Arbaugh reports a disheartening malfunction in his brain-computer interface. What does this mean for the future of Neuralink and similar technologies?
    Lastly, don't miss our take on the latest in AI innovation with IYO’s smart earbuds—could this be the solution to tuning out unwanted noise?
    Tune in for all this and more as we break down the biggest stories impacting gamers and tech enthusiasts alike.
    Markstrom
    Twitch -   / markstrom  
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 4 min

About Plugged Podcast

From the publisher's feed

"Plugged" invites you into the electrifying world of tech, gaming, and media production, all served with a side of charm and wit. Join Markstrom, the virtuoso of the streaming realm, and Dom Fillari, the media maestro who knows the ins and outs of the production circus. Together, they navigate the digital seas of current events, offering insights, laughs, and the occasional gaffe. Whether you're a hardcore gamer, a tech aficionado, or just a fan of good banter, "Plugged" is your destination for a brilliantly engaging audio experience.