On the first episode of the new year, Matt's joined by his wife, Natascha, to talk about a whole bunch of stuff, including the new movie from Studio Ghibli, "The Boy and the Heron", an extensive breakdown on Coral Island, and why Baldur's Gate 3 is a cozy game, before giving a roundup of the games they're most excited for in 2024.

Critical Diversions on Twitter - @crit_diversions

Natascha Murray on Twitter - @couchmochi

Natascha Murray on Blue Sky - @couchmochi.bsky.social

Matt Murray on Twitter - @shyguycity

Matt Murray on Blue Sky - @mattmurray.bsky.social

Matt's game of the year list for 2023 (substack version)

Matt's game of the year list for 2023 (tumblr version)

Podcast art by Natascha Murray

The various Critical Diversions theme songs were made by Mic Fox. Check out his entire plate of projects over at

The break music this episode was Village Day 2, from Coral Island, composed by Yugo Pratomo