Plugged Podcast

Plugged Podcast

By Markstrom x SlumBusinessMarketing
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Plugged Podcast episodes

  • Sony Backpedals on Helldivers, Nintendo's Next Move, and Bethesda Devastation (Plugged #36)

    Tune in to Episode 36 of Plugged where we dissect a whirlwind of gaming drama and excitement! First up, we dive into the massive backlash against Sony’s attempt to require PC players of Helldivers 2 to link their Steam accounts to a PlayStation Network account. This move, which would have restricted access in over 177 countries, sparked a review bomb outrage leading to Sony's quick backtrack. Hear all about the community's victory and the unique in-game cloak that commemorates this resistance.

    Switching gears, we share the buzz around PurpleRP, a new GTA FiveM roleplay server promising a fresh take on non-criminal lifestyles in gaming. Plus, Nintendo has gamers on the edge of their seats with the announcement of a successor to the Nintendo Switch expected within this fiscal year.
    But not all news can be positive, as we cover Microsoft's shocking decision to close Redfall developer Arkane Austin. This move is part of a series of cuts at Bethesda, significantly affecting the future of Redfall and other projects.
    And in a surprising turn of events for FTX and crypto investors, a restructuring plan suggests a full recovery might be on the horizon post-bankruptcy.
    Join us for an episode packed with critical updates, gamer outrage, and industry-shaking announcements in the world of gaming and beyond. Don't miss out on our insightful discussions and a hint of speculation on what's next for these major players in the gaming industry.
    Markstrom
    Twitch - https://www.twitch.tv/markstrom
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 4 min
  • Tarkov's New Edition Sparks Rage, Twitch's Discovery, and a Supercomputer Auction! (Plugged #35)

    Tune in to episode 35 of Plugged for an explosive discussion on the latest uproar in the gaming community. Escape from Tarkov has just dropped a bomb with its announcement of the Unheard Edition, leaving fans outraged over its exclusion from the EOD version and its steep $250 price tag. We'll dive deep into why this move has sparked such intense backlash and what Battlestate Games' subsequent damage control tells us about the future of gaming monetization.

    Meanwhile, Twitch has rolled out its new Discovery Feed, aiming to revolutionize how viewers connect with streamers. Think of it as Instagram Reels for Twitch, a feature that could be a game-changer for smaller channels. We'll explore the potential impacts and benefits of this new tool and how it could reshape content discovery on the platform.
    And for something a bit out of the ordinary, have you ever wanted to own a piece of powerful computing history? The US General Services Administration is auctioning off the once 20th most powerful computer in the world, the Cheyenne Supercomputer. We discuss the details of this behemoth and ponder whether it might just be the ultimate collector's item for tech enthusiasts.
    Plus, we'll touch on the new poison-spitting AI-controlled robot farmers—a peek into the future of agriculture and AI's expanding role in our everyday lives.
    Join us as we dissect these developments, offering insights, humor, and a critical look at how they affect the gaming and tech landscapes.
    Markstrom
    Twitch - https://www.twitch.tv/markstrom
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 2 min
  • Steam's Refund Shift, Twitch's Subscription Snafu, and FTC Shakes Up Noncompetes (Plugged #34)

    Dive into episode 34 of Plugged where we explore a series of pressing topics from the gaming and tech worlds. This week, gamers express their dissatisfaction with Steam's updated refund policy, which now includes playtime from early and advanced access in their 2-hour return window. While some see it as a fair play, the online community has mixed feelings. Are these updates justifiable, or is there room for backlash?

    In other news, Twitch faces a glitch that disrupted subscription renewals in March and April, affecting both streamers and viewers. We'll discuss Twitch's response to compensate affected streamers and the steps they're taking to preserve subscriber streaks. Was Twitch's remedy enough, or is the community left wanting more?
    On the regulatory front, the FTC makes a bold move by outlawing noncompete agreements, liberating workers across various industries. We'll dissect the implications of this decision for both employees and employers, and consider how this could change the competitive landscape.
    Plus, we can't ignore the quirky mishap on X (formerly Twitter), where a programming error changed 'Twitter.com' to 'X.com' in posts, potentially leading to deceptive link practices. What does this mean for the platform's credibility and user trust?
    And while we're at it, we'll touch on the exciting yet daunting advancements in AI with the development of robotic farmers that target weeds with precision. Join us as we break down these pivotal developments, offering insights, critiques, and plenty of debate along the way in another packed episode of Plugged.
    Geordies Steam Insight:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhVNu54_T8s&t=1s
    Markstrom
    Twitch - https://www.twitch.tv/markstrom
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    57 min
  • End of an Era for Battlefield, Ubisoft's License Drama, and AI Misadventures (Plugged #33)

    In episode 33 of Plugged, we tackle a range of hot topics shaking up the gaming world and beyond. We kick off with a major announcement from EA that's left gamers fuming: Battlefield 2042's Season 7 will be its last, marking the end of new content for the troubled title. As EA passes the torch to Motive Studio, we delve into what this shift means for the future of the Battlefield franchise and whether it can recover from its rocky performance.

    The controversy doesn't stop there. Ubisoft is back in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons, as they start revoking licenses for their racing game "The Crew," dashing any hopes for fan-run servers and reigniting debates over digital ownership in gaming. We explore the implications of this move and the growing discomfort around the concept that players don't really own the games they buy.
    Switching gears, we celebrate the fearless critique of the gaming industry by Alanah Pearce during her GDC Awards monologue. Her pointed comments on corporate practices and their impact on job security in the gaming world echo sentiments we've discussed on Plugged, and we ponder the potential for change in the industry dynamics.
    Tech is on the trial too, as we revisit the AI Pin—now declared the "Worst Product Ever Reviewed" by a renowned tech reviewer. From its failure to process basic questions to overheating issues, we break down where this ambitious gadget missed the mark.
    And finally, Boston Dynamics scares and fascinates us once again with the debut of their new all-electric Atlas robot. More mobile and capable than ever, this robot represents a leap toward the future of automation in roles that are dull, dirty, and dangerous. Plus, we touch on the latest in AI advancements with a look at new robotic farmers that could revolutionize agriculture.
    From the latest in gaming controversies to groundbreaking tech, Episode 32 of Plugged dives deep into the challenges and innovations that are defining our digital landscape. Join us as we unpack these developments and more, always with a keen eye on what's next.
    Markstrom
    Twitch - https://www.twitch.tv/markstrom
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 6 min
  • Record Breaking Fund Raising, Gamers' Outrage, and Crazy Video Generation AI (Plugged #32)

    In Episode 32 of Plugged, we dive into a whirlwind of gamer grievances, technological marvels, and the unexpected turns of the digital world. First off, we're recapping the heartwarming success of Gamer’s Outreach, celebrating the incredible milestone of over a quarter million dollars raised, thanks to the overwhelming support from our amazing community. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to bringing joy to children in hospitals.

    The gaming sphere is buzzing with discontent as Ubisoft's Starwars Outlaws unveils a staggering price tag for its Deluxe Edition, igniting debates on the current state of game monetization. We dissect this trend of high-priced DLCs and the implications for gamers and the industry. Is the force strong with this strategy, or is it leading us to the dark side?
    Switching gears to more positive vibes, we discuss a brilliantly produced video by one of our own, Markstrom, which merges humor with insightful commentary on Escape From Tarkov. This segment not only highlights the creative process behind engaging content but also sheds light on the blending of gaming and content creation.
    AI advancements continue to astound, as demonstrated by a new tool capable of overlaying Joaquin Phoenix’s Joker onto existing footage with eerie accuracy. And in a twist on technology's role in entertainment, we explore Roku's controversial patent that could transform the way ads are integrated into our viewing experience.
    Lastly, we venture into the fields of the future with AI-driven robotic farmers, showcasing how technology is revolutionizing agriculture. From gaming controversies to groundbreaking tech, Episode 32 of Plugged navigates through the latest digital trends and discussions, offering insights, laughter, and a touch of wonder at the rapidly evolving world around us.
    Markstrom
    Twitch - https://www.twitch.tv/markstrom
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 1 min
  • Discord Ads Quest, and Record-Breaking Hype Trains (Plugged #31)

    Welcome to Episode 31 of Plugged, where we dive into the heart of gaming controversies, tech breakthroughs, and oddities in the digital world. First up, Discord stirs the pot with its plan to introduce ads through a "quests" feature, leaving the community in a mix of apprehension and disappointment. We break down the details and explore the thin line between innovation and intrusion.

    On a lighter note, we're shining a spotlight on "Gray Zone Warfare," potentially the next big thing for fans craving a Tarkov-like experience. With a 23-minute gameplay preview leaving many impressed, we discuss its potential to shake up the genre.
    The episode wouldn't be complete without discussing Blizzard's controversial EULA changes, Twitch's baffling new Hype Train levels, and an astronomical internet speed breakthrough by Aston University. Plus, we take a moment to marvel at the upcoming total solar eclipse and debate the value of an oversized ballpark milkshake.
    Join us in Episode 31 of Plugged as we navigate through a landscape of gamer grievances, legal battles, technological marvels, and the eternal quest for the ultimate ballpark snack. It's an episode filled with insights, opinions, and a few laughs, tailor-made for our plugged-in listeners.
    Markstrom
    Twitch - https://www.twitch.tv/markstrom
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 6 min
  • The Rage Over Dragon's DLC & The Dawn of Neurolink Gaming (Plugged #30)

    In the landmark 30th episode of Plugged In, we're unpacking a hefty lineup of controversies, groundbreaking developments, and a dash of delicious absurdity. First up, the gaming community is in an uproar over "Dragon's Dogma 2" and its audacious launch with 21 DLCs, a move that has gamers questioning the future of fair pricing in the industry. With fast travel locked behind a paywall, we dissect the backlash and the implications for player trust in game developers.

    Switching gears, we dive into the world of Plunderstorm, Blizzard's pirate-themed Battle Royale. Our own streamer shares firsthand insights on the new title's gameplay, excitement, and potential to captivate the BR-loving crowd. But Blizzard's not in the clear yet, as we explore their recent EULA changes, sparking a debate on game ownership and forced arbitration that's left gamers seething.
    Twitch is rolling out new policies and features, aiming to redefine community engagement and content guidelines. From an expanded Hype Train to restrictions on content focus, we're dissecting what these changes mean for streamers and viewers alike. Plus, an amusing look at a Youtuber demonetized for "impersonating herself," highlighting the absurdities of AI moderation.
    The episode takes a futuristic turn with the first human implementation of Neuralink, leading to an all-night Civilization VI binge. The possibilities and ethical considerations of brain-computer interfaces are vast, and we're here to unpack them. Lastly, we're serving up a discussion on the potential TikTok ban and a mouth-watering debate over what could be the most underpriced ballpark food item ever: a mega milkshake from the Chicago White Sox.
    Join us in Episode 30 of Plugged In as we navigate through a maze of gamer grievances, legal battles, tech breakthroughs, and the eternal quest for the perfect ballpark snack. It's an episode filled with insights, opinions, and a few laughs, tailor-made for our plugged-in listeners.
    Markstrom
    Twitch - https://www.twitch.tv/markstrom
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 3 min
  • Apex Hacks, WoW Goes Pirate, & The TikTok Countdown, Unreal Engine 5.4 (Plugged #29)

    Episode 29 of Plugged In dives deep into the turbulent seas of gaming controversies, surprise announcements, and the looming fate of TikTok. We kick off with the shocking infiltration of Apex Legends' ALGS event by hackers, live-hacking pro players mid-competition. This unprecedented breach has left the community and Respawn Entertainment scrambling for solutions. We discuss the implications of this security nightmare and what it means for the integrity of online gaming competitions.

    Next, we hoist the sails with Blizzard's latest venture, a pirate-themed Battle Royale mode in World of Warcraft called Plunderstorm. This unexpected announcement has left the community with mixed feelings. Is Blizzard charting a new course, or are they simply adrift in the battle royale ocean?
    We also spotlight Dark and Darker's strategic move to the Epic Store, aiming to captivate a broader audience a year post-launch. Despite mixed feelings about the game's direction, this is a crucial step for the indie sensation. But what does this mean for its future and the evolving landscape of indie gaming on major platforms?
    Amidst these gaming waves, we navigate the political tides with the potential TikTok ban in the U.S., exploring the implications of the "Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act." As the clock ticks down, we ponder the future of social media, creativity, and international tech relations.
    Lastly, we delve into the realm of futuristic tech with the Smart Pin, a device set to redefine wearable tech by projecting a UI into your palm. Is this innovative pin a glimpse into a tech-integrated future, or is it a step too far into sci-fi territory?
    Join us in Episode 29 of Plugged In as we dissect these developments, from security breaches in esports to groundbreaking tech, offering our insights, predictions, and a dash of humor on the digital world's latest uproar.
    Markstrom
    Twitch - https://www.twitch.tv/markstrom
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 11 min
  • Gamers' Fury Over City Skylines 2 & Emulator Battles Heat Up (Plugged #27)

    In this heated 27th episode of Plugged In, we're unpacking a tornado of controversies shaking the gaming world to its core. Dive into the storm as we dissect why City Skylines 2 has become the community's latest disappointment. With promises unkept, lacking essential mechanics, and pushing updates via DLC, gamers' tempers flare against developer Colossal Order's shaky launch strategy and their plans for mod support through a proprietary repository.

    Meanwhile, the emulator scene faces a seismic shift as Yuzu bows to Nintendo in a staggering $2.4 million settlement, dodging a court showdown but possibly setting a chilling precedent for the future of game emulation. We'll explore the implications for gaming freedom and the fine line between preservation and piracy.
    Switching gears, we touch on the perils of content creation, highlighted by a lawsuit against notorious Youtuber Jack Doherty, showcasing the darker side of social media fame and its real-world consequences.
    In a lighter vein, discover how a simple change in alarm sounds could revolutionize hospital environments, reducing 'alarm fatigue' and potentially saving lives. From irritating beeps to melodious xylophone notes, we delve into the science of sound in healthcare.
    Closing with a spark of hope, we spotlight groundbreaking AI technology from Princeton, poised to solve one of nuclear fusion's trickiest challenges. This leap towards harnessing limitless clean energy could be a game-changer for our planet's future.
    Tune into Plugged In Ep. 27 for an electrifying journey through gaming controversies, legal battles, and innovations with the power to alter industries and lives. Don't miss a beat of this episode where technology meets human triumph and tribulation.
    Markstrom
    Twitch - https://www.twitch.tv/markstrom
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 1 min
  • Twitch Price Hikes & The Gaming Industry's Layoff Crisis (Plugged #26)

    In Episode 26 of "Plugged In," we're diving deep into the latest uproar within the gaming community, significant industry shifts, and a sprinkle of tech controversy. First off, Twitch users in the UK, Australia, Canada, and Turkey are bracing for subscription price increases, prompting debates on the platform's future and streamer support amidst global economic pressures. Mark weighs in on the implications for streamers and viewers alike.

    The age-old debate resurfaces as the legitimacy of streaming and content creation as 'real jobs' is questioned once again. With recent criticisms targeting the profession, we dissect the challenges and rewards of content creation, exploring the nuances of being "on" and the unseen hard work behind engaging content.
    2024 continues the troubling trend of job cuts within the video game industry. From PlayStation's London studio closure affecting 900 employees to widespread layoffs across major companies, we explore the factors contributing to this instability and its impact on game development and employee livelihoods.
    Nintendo's legal battle against the popular emulator Yuzu over piracy concerns marks a pivotal moment for copyright law and emulation technology. With claims of "irreparable damage" due to early game leaks and spoilers, we delve into the complexities of the case and its potential consequences for gamers and developers.
    Lastly, we're discussing Wendy's pioneering move towards "dynamic pricing" in fast food, mirroring Uber's surge pricing model. As smartphones become a focal point of legislative action in schools across the United States, we examine the broader implications of technology on education, social interactions, and youth culture.
    Tune into Episode 26 of "Plugged In" for a comprehensive analysis of these pivotal moments in gaming, technology, and how the digital age continues to shape our daily lives. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights and discussions on the latest in tech and gaming!
    Markstrom
    Twitch - https://www.twitch.tv/markstrom
    Instagram - MarkstromTV
    TikTok - MarkstromTV
    Slum / Dom
    https://www.lts.media
    Instagram - Dom.Fillari

    1 hr 11 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.