The Game Deflators

John & Ryan dive into PlayStation's disc surveys, the new PS5 hardware revision, Steam's haystack slop, MTG's Zeta Set disaster, plus a retro vs modern Resident Evil review!

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In this episode of The Game Deflators Podcast, John and Ryan tackle a massive week in gaming news, console hardware stealth updates, tabletop controversies, and take a trip down memory lane with a special retro-to-modern review!

First up, PlayStation is reportedly sending massive surveys to game developers following severe backlash over their push to eliminate physical game discs. Are fans and devs finally forcing Sony into a major course correction?

Speaking of hardware, Sony has quietly launched a refreshed PlayStation 5 Slim model featuring crucial internal design changes. We break down the updated components and what this means for console longevity.

Then over in PC gaming, Steam’s total "slopification" hits a hilarious new low. We look into the sudden rise of "Haystack Simulators"—a bizarre trend of developers spamming copycat asset flips.

Wizards of the Coast also breaks their silence on the Secret Lair x MSCHF: The Zeta Set disaster. Following severe server crashes and widespread community outrage, WotC has issued a formal apology and a print-to-order run back.

Finally, we shift gears for our feature review! We put the original 1996 survival horror classic Resident Evil on the PS1 head-to-head against its PS4 port/remaster. How well does tank controls and fixed camera angles hold up decades later compared to modern console play?

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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.

Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.

Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18

John and Ryan return with another week of gaming talk, starting with the games currently occupying their time. John continues his journey through Sea of Stars while revisiting the RPG classic Chrono Trigger, and Ryan wraps up his playthrough of Ori and the Blind Forest, sharing his thoughts on the acclaimed platformer.

The news segment kicks off with a surprising Sony patent that could potentially turn PS5 controllers into payment devices, prompting discussion about where gaming hardware may be headed in the future. The conversation then shifts to the Pokémon TCG world, where scalpers are expressing frustration over the accessibility of the new 30th Anniversary Pokémon card set.

Microsoft also enters the spotlight with a newly discovered patent that could introduce advertising opportunities following boss fights, cutscenes, and multiplayer matches, leading to a discussion about the future of monetization in gaming. The guys then break down the latest wave of Xbox restructuring news, including layoffs affecting teams across Microsoft, Activision, and Halo Studios, as well as reports that Obsidian will join Bethesda while leadership insists the studio will maintain its creative identity.

To wrap up the episode, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week features a review of Life is Strange on PS4, as John and Ryan revisit the narrative adventure and evaluate whether its current value matches its reputation.

Find us on TheGameDeflators.com

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The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.

Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.

Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18

The Game Deflators pick the greatest platformers ever then each builds a $200 ideal collection, balancing nostalgia and value in gaming.

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John and Ryan kick off the episode by debating their picks for the top platformer games in video game history. From timeless staples like Super Mario and Donkey Kong to cult favorites like Sly Cooper. Along the way, they provided current pricing breakdowns and shared why each game resonates with them, blending personal passion with collector insight.

Each host receives $200 to compile their ideal video game collection. They walk through their strategies, explain the titles they prioritized, and break down how they balanced nostalgia and value. It’s a fun exercise in budget collecting that highlights the different ways gamers approach building a library.

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Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflators

The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.

Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.

Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18

The Game Deflators cover Kojima’s canceled Physint, PSP 4K/8K rumors, Ubisoft/Square opting out of Xbox Disc‑to‑Digital, Sony’s disc backlash, Nintendo Direct 2026, and Princess Tomato NES review.

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John and Ryan kick off the episode with their recent video game pickups and what they’re currently playing, including John diving into Transistor and Ryan exploring Ori and the Blind Forest. John also shares updates on his D&D miniature painting and a brutal one‑shot he recently ran where the players were meant to die.

The news segment begins with reports that Hideo Kojima’s Physint project was canceled by Sony before eventually landing at Xbox, sparking discussion about Sony’s shifting priorities. The guys then react to rumors that the next PSP successor may feature USB‑C, 4K/120Hz, and even 8K output — an unexpectedly powerful handheld concept.

Next, they break down the growing controversy around Microsoft’s Xbox Disc‑to‑Digital program as Ubisoft and Square Enix opt out, raising questions about publisher cooperation and long‑term preservation. Meanwhile, Sony faces intensifying backlash over its physical disc phase‑out, with reports that the company threatened to cut off customer support and pursue legal action amid harassment claims — all while insisting it will move forward with its no‑disc strategy despite lawsuits.

The guys also recap every major announcement from the September 2026 Nintendo Direct, highlighting standout trailers, surprises, and what Nintendo’s lineup looks like heading into 2027.

To wrap up the episode, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week features a review of Princess Tomato in the Salad Kingdom on NES, as John and Ryan revisit the quirky adventure classic and evaluate its current market value.

Find us on TheGameDeflators.com

Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflators

The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.

Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.

Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18

The Game Deflators cover Hasbro’s MTG/D&D takeover, PlayStation’s digital push vs Xbox Disc‑to‑Digital, Sony’s courtroom stance, the Zeta Set fiasco, State of Play, and Harvest Moon SNES review.

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John and Ryan open the show with their recent pickups and games played, including John’s progress on D&D miniature painting and a one‑shot campaign designed for the players to meet their end.

The news kicks off with Hasbro’s CEO temporarily stepping in to oversee MTG and D&D, sparking discussion about leadership changes and their impact on two of the biggest tabletop franchises.

They then dive into console strategy: PlayStation rumored to push harder toward an all‑digital future in response to Microsoft’s Xbox Disc‑to‑Digital program. Adding fuel to the fire, Sony told a courtroom that reasonable gamers know they don’t own digital games — a statement that raises eyebrows about consumer rights and ownership.

The guys also cover the Zeta Set debacle from Secret Lair, analyzing what went wrong and how fans reacted, before breaking down the recent Sony State of Play showcase.

To wrap things up, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week spotlights Harvest Moon on SNES, as John and Ryan revisit the farming classic and evaluate its current market value.

Find us on TheGameDeflators.com

Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflators

The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.

Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.

Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18

The Game Deflators dive into new Mario LEGO reveals, MTG’s Zeta booster packs, Gamescom 2026 highlights, Xbox Disc‑to‑Digital’s huge launch, and revisit Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball on Xbox.

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John and Ryan dive into a packed week of gaming news and nostalgia, starting with their recent pickups and reactions to the newly revealed Super Mario LEGO sets. They break down the designs, the fan response, and how Nintendo continues expanding Mario into physical collectibles.

The conversation shifts into Magic: The Gathering as Wizards of the Coast surprises players with the cryptic announcement of the Zeta Set — the first Secret Lair release to feature actual booster packs. The guys explore what this means for collectors, gameplay, and MTG’s increasingly experimental product strategy.

Next, they recap every notable announcement from Gamescom Opening Night Live 2026, highlighting standout trailers, surprise reveals, and industry‑shaping updates from the show.

The biggest news of the week comes from Microsoft, as the company officially announces Xbox Disc‑to‑Digital — a massive initiative supporting thousands of physical games at launch. John and Ryan dig into how the program works, why it matters, and what it means for collectors, preservationists, and the future of physical media.

To wrap up the episode, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week features a review of Dead or Alive Xtreme Beach Volleyball on the original Xbox. They revisit the game’s mechanics, presentation, reputation, and current market value.

Find us on TheGameDeflators.com

Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflators

The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.

Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.

Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18

Phantom Blade Zero showcase, Amazon gaming speculation, Horizon spinoff reboot, GTA 6 leaks, pickups, and a Jurassic Park SNES review.

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John and Ryan start the week with their recent gaming pickups, including John’s discounted Critical Role miniatures for future sessions, Ryan’s time with Granblue and Guilty Gear Strive, and John’s ongoing playthrough of Chrono Trigger on PS1.

The news kicks off with the Phantom Blade Zero showcase, where gamers are calling for a physical release — overshadowing the impressive gameplay reveal. The guys then react to speculation that Amazon may be stepping away from gaming, following recent studio closures and the hand‑off of online services to other developers. They analyze what this could mean for Amazon’s broader entertainment strategy if the trend continues.

Next, they dive into Sony’s reported reboot of the Horizon multiplayer spinoff after negative feedback, noting how this continues a string of failed live‑service attempts. The conversation then shifts to Rockstar and Take‑Two as GTA 6 leaks reveal map and gameplay details ahead of the Netflix preview, sparking debate about marketing strategy and fan expectations.

To wrap up the episode, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week features a review of Jurassic Park on SNES, as John and Ryan revisit the 16‑bit adaptation of the blockbuster film and evaluate its current market value.

Find us on TheGameDeflators.com

Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflators

The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.

Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.

Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18

Wolverine PS5 bundle, Hobbit MTG set, Sony disc secrecy, GTA 6 Netflix exclusive, D&D prep, and a Reel Fishing PS1 review.

Chapters:

John and Ryan kick off the episode with their recent gaming pickups, including John’s new D&D miniature materials and 3D‑printing prep for an upcoming campaign, while Ryan shares what’s been grabbing his attention this week.

They move into news with Sony’s newly revealed Marvel’s Wolverine PS5 bundle, breaking down the Battle Yellow and Adamantium designs, and limited‑edition appeal. The conversation then shifts to Magic: The Gathering as The Hobbit crossover set becomes one of the most unique releases of the year, prompting discussion about cross‑media collaborations and collector hype.

Next, they explore Kotaku’s report on Sony’s secrecy around disc manufacturing, reacting to the “wall of silence” that makes homebrew disc creation nearly impossible — especially as PlayStation moves away from physical media entirely.

The guys also break down Take‑Two CEO Strauss Zelnick’s defense of Rockstar’s decision to debut the GTA 6 extended look as a timed Netflix exclusive, discussing whether this strategy helps or hurts fans and how it fits into Rockstar’s broader marketing push.

To wrap up the episode, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week features a review of Reel Fishing on PS1, as John and Ryan revisit the relaxing classic and evaluate its current market value.

Find us on TheGameDeflators.com

Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflators

The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.

Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.

Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18

Marvel Tokon PC issues, Nintendo movie expansion, Sony physical‑media backlash, Microsoft disc‑support plans, and a Space Station Silicon Valley N64 review.

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John and Ryan break down another week of gaming news, starting with their recent video game pickups and what’s been keeping them busy. From new finds to ongoing playthroughs, they warm up the episode with what’s currently on their controllers.

The news segment kicks off with Marvel Tokon stumbling to mixed Steam reviews as players call the PC port “miserable,” prompting a response from Arc System Works. The guys dig into what went wrong

Next, they look at Nintendo’s expanding entertainment strategy as the company plans to double down on movies following the Super Mario Bros. film’s massive double‑billion success. They explore what franchises could be next and how this shift affects Nintendo’s broader identity.

The conversation then moves to Sony, where the CFO addresses criticism about PlayStation dropping physical games — though not very convincingly. John and Ryan unpack the messaging, the backlash, and what this means for collectors and retailers.

They also discuss reports that Microsoft originally planned to continue disc support before the internal “Xbox reset,” adding another wrinkle to the ongoing physical‑vs‑digital debate.

To wrap up the episode, the Inflation Deflation Game of the Week spotlights Space Station Silicon Valley on the Nintendo 64, as the duo revisits the quirky classic and evaluates its current market value.

Find us on TheGameDeflators.com

Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflators

The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.

Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.

Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18

$250 Xbox collecting challenge, OG Xbox memories, console history, and ideal starter collections built on a budget.

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John and Ryan dive into a nostalgia‑packed episode focused entirely on budget collecting for the original Xbox. Each host is given $250 to build their ideal starter collection, breaking down which games they’d choose, why they matter, and how to stretch every dollar when collecting for Microsoft’s first console. Their lists highlight hidden gems, evergreen classics, and smart value picks that make the most of a tight budget.

Along the way, they share their memories of the original Xbox, from launch‑era excitement to the console’s unique identity in the early 2000s. They also explore Xbox history — the hardware innovations, the rise of Xbox Live, and how the system carved out its place in the industry.

The episode blends collecting strategy, retro nostalgia, and personal stories, making it a perfect listen for anyone looking to start or expand their OG Xbox library without breaking the bank.

Find us on TheGameDeflators.com

Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflators

The views and opinions expressed on this channel are solely those of the author. The content within these recordings are property of their respective Designers, Writers, Creators, Owners, Organizations, Companies and Producers.

Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted.

Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18