23 APR 2024 · As we await the big game releases of next week, there are a few minor ones that have already made their way out to PC and Consoles. Sean's played Stop Motion narrative wonder Harold Halibut and the Final Fantasy XVI Rising Tide DLC. Does the Rising Tide serve as a seemingly fitting finale to FF16's content? Is Harold Halibut another indie darling that everyone should play? There's quite a bit of video game adjacent and actual video game news to discuss, with Nintendo providing a brand new Indie World and Sean has a few favorites to be excited about. The Witcher series gets a final Season 5, Sonic 3's Shadow has its voice actor, Mike Ybarra wonders if we should be able to tip AAA game developers, and are Final Fantasy VII Rebirth sales being overblown? Plus, Sean and Marc discuss more on the Fallout TV Show now that Sean has finished it. PC versions of PlayStation games will soon get trophies, Marc's been playing OuterWorlds and a lot more on this edition of Video Games 2 the MAX. You can also watch this episode in video form on the W2M Network Youtube Channel, please give us a like, comment on the episode, and give the channel a subscribe and follow as well: https://youtube.com/live/tlQ6UQpDoNA - If you prefer podcasts: Listen and give us a review on these platforms... - Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ag/podcast/video-games-2-the-max/id886092740 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wjd0u3xO7TdAm4gKRM44L Amazon: https://www.audible.com/pd/Video-Games-2-the-MAX-Podcast/B08JJPTZTW Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/video-games-2-the-max-181386 Podcast Addict: https://podcastaddict.com/?podId=2465904 IHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-video-games-2-the-m-28438312/ - Check out other W2M Network Shows - Latest Otalku Cafe Episode (Anime): https://youtube.com/live/LvjQ4d1pa2M Radulich in Broadcasting's Civil War Review: https://youtube.com/live/nujrqpE3hbc Radulich in Broadcasting's Godzilla x Kong: New Empire Review: https://youtube.com/live/1GCVPArdyso - Follow on X (Twitter): - Sean on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/W2MSean Marc on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/HumanityPlague W2M Network on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/w2mnetwork - Other Social Media - Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@w2mnetwork2 Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d Follow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/w2mnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/w2mnetwork/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/W2MNetwork

17 APR 2024 · * Apologies for the audio version coming out a little later than usual. Sean had some family matters to attend to. * This week saw the premiere of the Fallout TV Series on Amazon Prime and Marc has binged through it all, while Sean has watched the first few episodes. So the duo discusses their impressions of the series that's already received the greenlight for a second season. Also, this was a week of announcements, trailers, and lost possibilities. As the Star Wars Outlaws Story trailer released to much aplomb and wonder, but does it have the guys excited about what's to come when it releases on August 30? The Triple iii Showcase also took place and both of us have some favorite games coming out of it. Then, there's the whole debacle with EA and if there was going to be a Dead Space 2 Remake or even a new Dead Space game. EA has put an end to that not happening. Is it the best move? Plus, could we see less big-budget $70 games? EA Play goes up in price and more! You can also watch this episode in video form on the W2M Network Youtube Channel, please give us a like, comment on the episode, and give the channel a subscribe and follow as well: https://youtube.com/live/1qNIFssIyBE - If you prefer podcasts: Listen and give us a review on these platforms... - Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ag/podcast/video-games-2-the-max/id886092740 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wjd0u3xO7TdAm4gKRM44L Amazon: https://www.audible.com/pd/Video-Games-2-the-MAX-Podcast/B08JJPTZTW Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/video-games-2-the-max-181386 Podcast Addict: https://podcastaddict.com/?podId=2465904 IHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-video-games-2-the-m-28438312/ - Check out other W2M Network Shows - Latest Otalku Cafe Episode (Anime): https://youtube.com/live/nH1si2vUYX8 Radulich in Broadcasting's Late Night With the Devil : https://youtube.com/live/U5OFXV60Wbc Radulich in Broadcasting's Godzilla x Kong: New Empire Review: https://youtube.com/live/1GCVPArdyso - Follow on X (Twitter): - Sean on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/W2MSean Marc on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/HumanityPlague W2M Network on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/w2mnetwork - Other Social Media - Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@w2mnetwork2 Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d Follow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/w2mnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/w2mnetwork/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/W2MNetwork

9 APR 2024 · We are now fully into April and as we wait for the big games coming at the end of the month, there are some demos out for some of them. So, Sean has some Stellar Blade Impressions to share on this episode. Along with that, he's also played two versions of the Saga: Emerald Beyond. As well as a beloved game that was released bout a month ago in Unicorn Overlord impressions too. Marc is also just enjoying more Granblue Fantasy Relink. Some details have dropped on potential games for the June Xbox Showcase including a long-awaited Gears 6 reveal. Likewise, rumors abound that much like last year, Sony may opt to get ahead of the Summer Games Fest brouhaha and have a showcase in May. Xbox is also in the news for some others including making a games preservation team and Hellblade 2 being locked at 30 FPS. Plus, according to an annual report from Newzoo most gamers are playing old games or recurring annual franchises. Does this say anything about the state of gaming? And does this paint a grim picture for how many new players are available for recent Live-Service games? The controversial Tekken 8 Fighter Pass, the status of the Knights of the Old Republic Remake, and more! You can also watch this episode in video form on the W2M Network Youtube Channel, please give us a like, comment on the episode, and give the channel a subscribe and follow as well: https://youtube.com/live/3xHjN6GNOMA The Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Spoilercast: https://youtube.com/live/CtmUkGAtNt4 Timestamps: 00:01:00: START 00:02:15: Housekeeping & Intro ------------- Games We Played ---------- 00:06:50: Stellar Blade Demo (Sean) 00:12:35: Saga Emerald Beyond Demo (PS5 & Switch) (Sean) 00:19:20: Unicorn Overlord Demo (Sean) ----------- What's in the News ----------- 00:22:15: Hellblade 2 will be locked to 30 FPS 00:26:25: Ninja Theory (Hellblade 2 Developer) Co-Founder Antoniades Left the Studio 00:28:00: Xbox has a Game Preservation Team, a possible Gears 6 reveal and Talking more about the state of Xbox 00:47:40: Potential announcements at May 2024 PlayStation Showcase 00:50:10: Newzoo's report of gaming habits in 2023 and Most Played Games 00:55:35: Multiversus Returning and What will Nintendo do with the next Smash Bros game 00:58:55: Tekken 8 Adds Fighter Pass and could they also add 3 vs. 3 Mode too? 01:05:40: Dragon Quest XII in Trouble? Square-Enix reassigns Top Producer 01:10:00: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth's Platinum issue will be patched soon 01:11:40: Could Square-Enix surprise us with DLC for FFVII Rebirth that isn't just Queen's Blood? 01:16:50: Knights of the Republic Remake is alive and well according to Sabre Interactive 01:19:40: Ubisoft and Relic Entertainment both have layoffs, The Crew 1 going to be delisted 01:26:05: Roku has patented a way to sell adds that can read what's connected to your HDMi is sitting idle 01:31:30: Apple will allow Emulators on the App Store --------- The End --------- 01:35:00: Games Coming Out This Week! - If you prefer podcasts: Listen and give us a review on these platforms... - Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ag/podcast/video-games-2-the-max/id886092740 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wjd0u3xO7TdAm4gKRM44L Amazon: https://www.audible.com/pd/Video-Games-2-the-MAX-Podcast/B08JJPTZTW Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/video-games-2-the-max-181386 Podcast Addict: https://podcastaddict.com/?podId=2465904 IHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-video-games-2-the-m-28438312/ - Check out other W2M Network Shows - Latest Otalku Cafe Episode (Anime): https://youtube.com/live/nH1si2vUYX8 Radulich in Broadcasting's Late Night With the Devil : https://youtube.com/live/U5OFXV60Wbc Radulich in Broadcasting's Godzilla x Kong: New Empire Review: https://youtube.com/live/1GCVPArdyso - Follow on X (Twitter): - Sean on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/W2MSean Marc on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/HumanityPlague W2M Network on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/w2mnetwork - Other Social Media - Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@w2mnetwork2 Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d Follow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/w2mnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/w2mnetwork/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/W2MNetwork

3 APR 2024 · Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is so massive Sean had to bring in five guests to break down their thoughts on various parts of the game including The Ending and where we go from here into Part 3. So, if you didn't catch the title, there will be SPOILERS for the game on this special edition of Video Games 2 the MAX. Sean is joined by the man who loves Bad Brackets Randy Isbelle and two members of The Outerhaven crew in SithScott and Andrew Agress (also, Andrew reviewed Rebirth for the Outerhaven.) Plus, you have freelance writers Hayes Madsen (he reviewed Rebirth for Inverse) and first-time guest Josh Broadwell (who reviewed Rebirth for Roger Ebert.) So if you also have finished Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, join us in this all-encompassing, (positive and negative) discussion about the second part of the FFVII Remake Project. -------- Guest Links ----- Randy's Bad Brackets: https://www.youtube.com/@BadBrackets Scott's Stellar Blade Impressions: https://www.theouterhaven.net/2024/04/stellar-blade-demo-impressions/ Andrew's FFVII Rebirth Review: https://www.theouterhaven.net/2024/02/final-fantasy-vii-rebirth-review-the-pinnacle-of-a-journey/ Hayes's FFVII Rebirth Review: https://www.inverse.com/gaming/final-fantasy-7-rebirth-review Hayes's FFVII Rebirth Ending Explained: https://www.inverse.com/gaming/ff-7-rebirth-ending-explained Josh's FFVII Rebirth Review: https://www.rogerebert.com/video-games/final-fantasy-7-rebirth-video-game-review - If you prefer podcasts: Listen and give us a review on these platforms... - Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ag/podcast/video-games-2-the-max/id886092740 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wjd0u3xO7TdAm4gKRM44L Amazon: https://www.audible.com/pd/Video-Games-2-the-MAX-Podcast/B08JJPTZTW Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/video-games-2-the-max-181386 Podcast Addict: https://podcastaddict.com/?podId=2465904 IHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-video-games-2-the-m-28438312/ - Check out other W2M Network Shows - Latest Otalku Cafe Episode (Anime): https://youtube.com/live/ydZy1XIhaDc Radulich in Broadcasting's Late Night With the Devil : https://youtube.com/live/U5OFXV60Wbc Radulich in Broadcasting's Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire Review: https://youtube.com/live/QNfKcDS288k - Follow on X (Twitter): - Sean on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/W2MSean Marc on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/HumanityPlague W2M Network on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/w2mnetwork - Other Social Media - Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@w2mnetwork2 Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d Follow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/w2mnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/w2mnetwork/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/W2MNetwork

31 MAR 2024 · After a week that saw some big releases and exciting announcements, we have a week of interesting announcements, and more layoffs, Gearbox is free from Embracer Group, and Phil Spencer has a big interview talking about Xbox. Sean and Marc discuss it all in this edition of Video Games 2 the MAX. Phil Spencer had an interview with Polygon while at the Game Developer's Conference (links further below in the description) where he speaks about all sorts of things including wanting PC storefronts like Epic Games and Itch.io on Xbox, the cost prohibition of exclusives, a potential Xbox handheld, and more! Could this be a potential lifespring for Xbox? Or is this all essentially wish-listing from Phil? Marvel Rivals was suddenly announced and seems to take a lot of its inspiration from Overwatch. With Overwatch 2 in a bad spot, could a game from a big IP like Marvel overtake it and become the Defacto hero shooter? Also, Gearbox is sold to Take-Two Interactive, Resident Evil 9 could be open-world, layoffs at several SEGA European studios, and other places such as Nintendo of America and Certain Affinity. New details on the codename Condor game from Remedy and more! You can also watch this episode in video form on the W2M Network Youtube Channel, please give us a like, comment on the episode, and give the channel a subscribe and follow as well: https://youtube.com/live/PxuPcCdXINE Timestamps: 00:01:00: START 00:01:55: Housekeeping ----------------- Games We Are Playing ------------ 00:04:05: Granblue Fantasy Relink (Marc) 00:14:30: Random Stuff from FFVII Rebirth (Sean) --------------- What's Going on in the News ----------- 00:17:45: Gearbox is sold to Take-Two Interactive for a cool $460 Million ------------- BIG Topic ------------ 00:23:30: Phil Spencer Really Wants an Xbox Handheld and PC Storefronts on Xbox 00:47:45: Marvel Rivals Announced ------------- What's in the News Part 2 ---------- 00:58:55: Resident Evil 9 Could Be Open-World 01:04:35: Remedy gives info on the Control Multiplayer game, Codename Condor 01:08:50: Earthblade gets delayed to 2025 01:09:50: SEGA sells off Relic Entertainment and lays off 240 employees, Smilegate Barcelona to lose its entire staff, Nintendo of America lays off 120 contract workers, and Creative Assembly has layoffs too ------------- The End ---------- 01:19:00: Games Coming out this week ---------- News Story Links --------- Phil Spencer's big interview with Polygon at GDC: Phil's thoughts on the industry and why Microsoft had to do layoffs: https://www.polygon.com/24108700/phil-spencer-interview-2024-xbox-exclusives-layoffs Phil talks A LOT about a potential handheld: https://www.polygon.com/24108660/xbox-handheld-console-phil-spencer-interview Phil wants Epic Games Store, Itch.Io and other PC Stores on Xbox: https://www.polygon.com/24108670/xbox-epic-games-store-phil-spencer-interview Gearbox gets sold to Take-Two Interactive: https://www.reuters.com/markets/deals/take-two-interactive-acquire-borderlands-maker-gearbox-entertainment-embracer-2024-03-28/ Sega Sells Off Relic Entertainment and lays off 240 employees: https://www.gamesindustry.biz/sega-sells-relic-and-will-cut-240-jobs-across-uk-studios Marvel Rivals Announced: https://www.marvel.com/articles/games/marvel-rivals-pvp-shooter-boasts-incredible-lineup-of-marvel-characters - If you prefer podcasts: Listen and give us a review on these platforms... - Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ag/podcast/video-games-2-the-max/id886092740 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wjd0u3xO7TdAm4gKRM44L Amazon: https://www.audible.com/pd/Video-Games-2-the-MAX-Podcast/B08JJPTZTW Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/video-games-2-the-max-181386 Podcast Addict: https://podcastaddict.com/?podId=2465904 IHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-video-games-2-the-m-28438312/ - Check out other W2M Network Shows - Latest Otalku Cafe Episode (Anime): https://youtube.com/live/ydZy1XIhaDc Radulich in Broadcasting's Late Night With the Devil : https://youtube.com/live/U5OFXV60Wbc Radulich in Broadcasting's Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire Review: https://youtube.com/live/QNfKcDS288k - Follow on X (Twitter): - Sean on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/W2MSean Marc on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/HumanityPlague W2M Network on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/w2mnetwork - Other Social Media - Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@w2mnetwork2 Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d Follow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/w2mnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/w2mnetwork/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/W2MNetwork

24 MAR 2024 · A huge week in gaming with some major releases all occurring on the same day and also big gaming news with GDC and PAX East happening this week as well. Right before recording Square-Enix had their Final Fantasy XVI: Rising Tide DLC panel and they gave some new info on what we'll be doing in the DLC, an all-important release date and so much more! Sean tries to go through the gist of it, probably much to Marc's chagrin. Although the guys aren't playing any of the big games just yet, Marc did finally get to play Granblue Fantasy Relink and Sean finished the main story of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and also tried out the new Performance Mode Sharp as well. There's a ton of news including the U.S. Dept of Justice Suing Apple over Monopolistic practices which include Cloud gaming. Capcom once again being in hot water of its microtransactions, Helldivers 2 is the best-selling game of February 2024, PSVR 2 halting production amid overstock concerns, Larian dropping Baldur's Gate for something new, and much more! Marc's Final Fantasy VII Rebirth: https://411mania.com/games/final-fantasy-7-rebirth-ps5-review/ You can also watch this episode in video form on the W2M Network Youtube Channel, please give us a like, comment on the episode, and give the channel a subscribe and follow as well: https://youtube.com/live/PxuPcCdXINE Timestamps: 00:01:00: START 00:02:30: Housekeeping and Intro -------------- What's in the News ------------- 00:06:25: Dragon's Dogma 2 Comes under fire for the way it does its Microtransactions 00:19:35: PlayStation 5 Pro DLSS feature, PSSR, gets more details 00:23:05: Sony halts production on PSVR 2 due to overstock 00:33:40: Amy Henning and New Skydance get to show off Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra 00:36:00: Connie Booth joins EA as Group General Manager of RPG's 00:39:40: Blizzard may cancel the singleplayer for Overwatch 2 Completely 00:43:20: Kotaku EIC Resigns over changes in focus of website from news to guides 00:52:20: Baldur's Gate 3 Wins Big at GDC Awards, Sven Vincke makes statement afterwards 00:53:40: Larian Studios drops Baldur's Gate franchise and opts for to make something new 01:00:45: Velan Studio may have to layoff 46 workers because of a canceled major project 01:02:20: U.S. Dept of Justice sues Apple over monopolistic practices in five areas and one of them is cloud gaming 01:12:05: Remedy says they are looking to make even more Alan Wake and Control games 01:13:55: Valve introduces an improved Steam Family Game Sharing 01:15:55: Microsoft is redoing Xbox Rewards on Console 01:17:10: The Sims Movie is in the works by the same studio that made the Barbie Movie --------------- Final Fantasy Section --------------- 01:19:40: Sean gives details on the new announcements about the FF 16 Rising Tide DLC 01:23:50: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth's Patch is finally out with a new Performance Mode toggle 01:25:15: Sean's final thoughts on Final Fantasy VII Rebirth after beating the game ---------------- The End ------------- 01:32:40: Marc's thoughts on Granblue Fantasy Relink & Talks X-Men 97 - If you prefer podcasts: Listen and give us a review on these platforms... - Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ag/podcast/video-games-2-the-max/id886092740 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wjd0u3xO7TdAm4gKRM44L Amazon: https://www.audible.com/pd/Video-Games-2-the-MAX-Podcast/B08JJPTZTW Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/video-games-2-the-max-181386 Podcast Addict: https://podcastaddict.com/?podId=2465904 IHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-video-games-2-the-m-28438312/ - Check out other W2M Network Shows - Latest Otalku Cafe Episode (Anime): https://youtube.com/live/ydZy1XIhaDc Radulich in Broadcasting's Kung Fu Panda 4 Review: https://youtube.com/live/za23fLiM3xE Radulich in Broadcasting's Avatar: The Last Airbender (Netflix) Review: https://youtube.com/live/QD-t5oHJBsA - Follow on X (Twitter): - Sean on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/W2MSean Marc on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/HumanityPlague W2M Network on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/w2mnetwork - Other Social Media - Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@w2mnetwork2 Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d Follow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/w2mnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/w2mnetwork/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/W2MNetwork

19 MAR 2024 · It's another week in gaming and another week of Video Games 2 the MAX as Sean and Marc are near the end of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, (actually, Marc beat it before we started recording), so the guys have some more thoughts on the game (without spoilers). And something that will help FFVII Rebirth look even better is a PlayStation 5 Pro as more rumors abound about the specs and insides of the future version of the PS5. Could 4K 60 really be a thing for consoles very soon? And will the guys think about maybe getting one? Plus, lots of announcements from Mario Day, including Super Mario Bros 2 Movie is official, Sabre Interactive is officially sold, and well, Helldivers 2 officially has sold extremely well. There are some other things to discuss too! You can also watch this episode in video form on the W2M Network Youtube Channel, please give us a like, comment on the episode, and give the channel a subscribe and follow as well: https://youtube.com/live/_hutkHgeOsA - If you prefer podcasts: Listen and give us a review on these platforms... - Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ag/podcast/video-games-2-the-max/id886092740 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wjd0u3xO7TdAm4gKRM44L Amazon: https://www.audible.com/pd/Video-Games-2-the-MAX-Podcast/B08JJPTZTW Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/video-games-2-the-max-181386 Podcast Addict: https://podcastaddict.com/?podId=2465904 IHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-video-games-2-the-m-28438312/ - Follow on X (Twitter): - Sean on Twitter: https://twitter.com/W2MSean W2M Network on Twitter: https://twitter.com/w2mnetwork - Other Social Media - Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@w2mnetwork2 Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d Follow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/w2mnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/w2mnetwork/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/W2MNetwork

18 MAR 2024 · Sadly a huge loss was announced to the world late Thursday/Early Friday with the passing of the legendary Akira Toriyama. The creator of Dragon Ball undoubtedly leaves a huge legacy not just in the Manga/Anime world, but also in video games with his character art for Dragon Quest, Chrono Trigger, and Blue Dragon among others. Sean is joined by Marc and The Outerhaven's SithScott as they discuss what Akira Toriyama meant to them, their origins with Dragon Ball, and more. Scott also discusses his thoughts on Final Fantasy VII Rebirth as Sean and Marc have progressed to Chapter 9 in the game, along with some other games like Zoria, Skull and Bones, and Cave of Lores. Xbox also had their Partner Preview and there was certainly a varying degree of enjoyment in that, but it did have some cool games to look forward to. Rooster Teeth shut down. Deviation Games closes. Warner Bros looks to fully move into live-service games. Yuzu quickly goes into a settlement with Nintendo over their Switch emulator, and more! You can also watch this episode in video form on the W2M Network Youtube Channel, please give us a like, comment on the episode, and give the channel a subscribe and follow as well: https://youtube.com/live/Rb78NxKz_sc - - If you prefer podcasts: Listen and give us a review on these platforms... - Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ag/podcast/video-games-2-the-max/id886092740 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wjd0u3xO7TdAm4gKRM44L Amazon: https://www.audible.com/pd/Video-Games-2-the-MAX-Podcast/B08JJPTZTW Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/video-games-2-the-max-181386 Podcast Addict: https://podcastaddict.com/?podId=2465904 IHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-video-games-2-the-m-28438312/ - Follow on X (Twitter): - Sean on Twitter: https://twitter.com/W2MSean W2M Network on Twitter: https://twitter.com/w2mnetwork - Other Social Media - Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@w2mnetwork2 Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d Follow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/w2mnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/w2mnetwork/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/W2MNetwork

3 MAR 2024 · This week has been absolutely incredible in showing the duality of the games industry at the moment. Two giants of video games, Sony and EA both have layoffs within a day of each other, closing studios, and echoing the same refrain of needing to reassess their strategies going forward. Embracer Group entered an agreement with Sabre Interactive so they can be owned by private investors. Borderlands studio Gearbox could also be sold off, and Toys for Bob, makers of Crash Bandicoot 4 and the Spyro Reignited Trilogy enter into an agreement to go independent from Activision-Blizzard-King. Oh yeah, and around all of this business stuff was the release of a small little game called Final Fantasy VII Rebirth that so many gamers, including both Sean and Marc, have been eagerly awaiting. Sean and Marc give their thoughts on the game so far, why Queen's Blood might be the best card game, and a whole lot more. Plus, the Pokemon Company announced Pokemon Legends Z-A set in Lumiose City is coming in 2025 for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo goes into yet another lawsuit, this time against the makers of the Switch emulator Yuzu saying that it promotes piracy of its hardware and games on the platform. Other studios also have layoffs, there's uncertainty over Apple Arcade and more! You can also watch this episode in video form on the W2M Network Youtube Channel, please give us a like, comment on the episode, and give the channel a subscribe and follow as well: https://youtube.com/live/WY77HiRLd54 Timestamps: 00:01:00: START 00:02:25: Housekeeping ------------ Games We Are Playing ---------- 00:04:30: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (Sean & Marc) ------------ Troubles in the Industry in Multiple Ways ------------ 00:33:10: Sony laid off 900 employees at various PlayStation studios 00:45:00: EA laid off 670 employees in various departments 00:50:10: Sabre Interactive escapes Embracer Group and goes Private 00:51:30: Toys For Bob Goes Independent but may still partner with Xbox 00:56:00: Deck Nine and Supermassive Studios suffer layoffs, Apple Arcade and Indies questions -------------- What's in the News ------------- 01:06:30: A small interlude discussing some other things from Final Fantasy VII Rebirth 01:09:55: Discussing unionizing for Devs 01:10:55: Pokemon Presents Big announcement is Pokemon Legends Z-A 01:14:50: Nintendo aims to file a lawsuit against Switch Emulator Yuzu over piracy concerns 01:22:45: Remedy buys rights to Control, Control 2, Control Multiplayer game from 505 Games ---------------- Random Stuff & The End ------------ 01:26:20: Helldivers 2 and do we listen to soundtracks outside of games 01:27:30: Will the Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Mini-Figures come to the USA? 01:30:50: Games Coming Out this Week: The Thamaturge, Uforia: The Saga 2, Berserk Boy & More! - If you prefer podcasts: Listen and give us a review on these platforms... - Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ag/podcast/video-games-2-the-max/id886092740 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wjd0u3xO7TdAm4gKRM44L Amazon: https://www.audible.com/pd/Video-Games-2-the-MAX-Podcast/B08JJPTZTW Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/video-games-2-the-max-181386 Podcast Addict: https://podcastaddict.com/?podId=2465904 IHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-video-games-2-the-m-28438312/ - Check out other W2M Network Shows - Latest Otalku Cafe Episode (Anime): https://youtube.com/live/eqDDMGJKTD4 Radulich in Broadcasting's Oscar Contenders: https://www.youtube.com/live/OScTLYutIzs Radulich in Broadcasting's Madame Web Review: https://youtube.com/live/QO4MZDd0k6E - Our Friend's Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Reviews - Hayes Madsen's Review over at Inverse Gaming: https://www.inverse.com/gaming/final-fantasy-7-rebirth-review Hayes Madsen's chat with me on the podcast about FFVII Rebirth: https://www.youtube.com/live/ukmBOegaKGo Andrew Agress Review over at The Outerhaven.net: https://www.theouterhaven.net/final-fantasy-vii-rebirth-review-the-pinnacle-of-a-journey/ - Follow on X (Twitter): - Sean on Twitter: https://twitter.com/W2MSean W2M Network on Twitter: https://twitter.com/w2mnetwork - Other Social Media - Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@w2mnetwork2 Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d Follow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/w2mnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/w2mnetwork/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/W2MNetwork

25 FEB 2024 · It is nearly upon us, the moment Final Fantasy VII fans have been eagerly anticipating, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is mere days away. Sean is joined by Gaming Trends Writer at Inverse Hayes Madsen. Hayes has reviewed and played the full game already ahead of its official release. In this SPOILER-FREE discussion about the game, Hayes gives his thoughts on the new additions, what's improved from Final Fantasy VII Remake, does going open-world make this everything we've ever dreamed of for FFVII? Hayes' favorite mini-game, what is so awesome about the new card game Queen's Blood, anything that stands out as a negative, and more! You can go read Hayes's review here: https://www.inverse.com/gaming/final-fantasy-7-rebirth-review You can also watch this episode in video form on the W2M Network Youtube Channel, please give us a like, comment on the episode, and give the channel a subscribe and follow as well: https://youtube.com/live/ukmBOegaKGo Timestamps: 00:01:00: START 00:02:25: Talking about the state of Gaming and Games Journalism 00:08:30: Hayes's history with Final Fantasy VII 00:09:45: Discussing all things Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (Spoiler-Free) - If you prefer podcasts: Listen and give us a review on these platforms... - Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ag/podcast/video-games-2-the-max/id886092740 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wjd0u3xO7TdAm4gKRM44L Amazon: https://www.audible.com/pd/Video-Games-2-the-MAX-Podcast/B08JJPTZTW Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/video-games-2-the-max-181386 Podcast Addict: https://podcastaddict.com/?podId=2465904 IHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/53-video-games-2-the-m-28438312/ - Check out other W2M Network Shows - Latest Otalku Cafe Episode (Anime): https://youtube.com/live/eqDDMGJKTD4 Radulich in Broadcasting's Lisa Frankenstein Review: https://youtube.com/live/VagxcEgQMG0 Radulich in Broadcasting's Madame Web Review: https://youtube.com/live/QO4MZDd0k6E - Our Friend's Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Reviews - Hayes Madsen's Review over at Inverse Gaming: https://www.inverse.com/gaming/final-fantasy-7-rebirth-review Andrew Agress Review over at The Outerhaven.net: https://www.theouterhaven.net/final-fantasy-vii-rebirth-review-the-pinnacle-of-a-journey/ - Follow on X (Twitter): - Sean on Twitter: https://twitter.com/W2MSean W2M Network on Twitter: https://twitter.com/w2mnetwork - Other Social Media - Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@w2mnetwork2 Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d Follow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/w2mnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/w2mnetwork/ Follow Us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/W2MNetwork