24 APR 2024 · In our milestone 500th episode, we celebrate with some exciting updates! Carrie surprises us all by revealing her newfound role in a metal band and shares her exhilarating experience performing at VGM Con in Minnesota. Meanwhile, we dive into industry news, including Embracer's plan to split into three companies, with highlights on Middle Earth Enterprises and Friends. Additionally, we discuss Ghost of Tsushima's milestone as the first PlayStation game to offer PC trophy support. Carrie also expresses her enthusiasm for the new Amazon Prime Fallout show. In legal news, we cover 2K's victory in a lawsuit brought by LeBron James' tattoo artist and Take-Two's recent layoffs, despite earlier claims of no current plans for layoffs. To cap off the episode, we reminisce about our listeners' favorite moments from the first 500 episodes of Dense Pixels.

16 APR 2024 · In this episode, Brad shares his impressions of two roguelikes, Fights in Tight Spaces and Slice & Dice. Meanwhile, Micah passionately discusses the Nomura-ing of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth's ending. We also delve into former Blizzard boss Mike Ybarra's perspective on game development, as well as Saber Interactive founder's comments on the scrutiny faced by Embracer. Additionally, we hear insights from Larian Publishing Director regarding industry layoffs. Furthermore, we address allegations of toxic workplace culture at Life is Strange developer Deck Nine and the rumored casting of Keanu Reeves as Shadow in the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie. To wrap up, we share our thoughts on Wrestlemania XL.

2 APR 2024 · In this episode, Micah shares his impressions of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, while Carrie provides her initial thoughts on Final Fantasy VII Remake. Micah also delves into his experiences with Rise of the Ronin, exploring whether its various components come together to create something special. Additionally, we discuss Phil Spencer's interest in expanding digital storefronts like the Epic Games Store or itch.io to Xbox, as well as Vladimir Putin's directive to explore the development of a Russian games console. Furthermore, we cover Take-Two's acquisition of Gearbox from Embracer for $460 million and Embracer CEO's stance on the timing of studio acquisitions. To wrap up, we offer our predictions for Wrestlemania.

26 MAR 2024 · In this episode, we delve into the recent update patch for Helldivers 2, exploring the flying bugs terminids and uncovering valuable lessons for the wider gaming industry. Carrie shares her experiences diving back into Stardew Valley with the latest 1.6 update, discussing its impact and improvements. We also discuss comments made at the GDC Awards, including the criticism of publisher greed by Larian Studios head Swen Vincke. We react to the Baldur's Gate 3 news and Larian Studios' decision to move on from the franchise. Additionally, we examine the controversy surrounding microtransactions and DLC in Dragon's Dogma 2 as revealed in recent Steam reviews.

18 MAR 2024 · Capcom is increasing its starting salary in Japan by more than 25%, aiming to attract and retain talent. Activision QA workers unionize, demanding better working conditions as over 600 employees are laid off. Embracer Group confirms the $247 million sale of Saber Interactive assets and withdraws from Russia amid ongoing conflict. Former Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick reportedly expresses interest in purchasing TikTok. SAG-AFTRA considers striking over AI terms in video game contracts. Star Wars Battlefront Classic Collection faces critical errors at launch, disappointing fans. Rooster Teeth shuts down under Warner Bros, signaling changes in the entertainment industry. Finally, Carrie discusses Nobuo Uematsu's comments on integrating film-style scores into gaming.

5 MAR 2024 · PlayStation is reducing its workforce by around 900 employees, approximately 8% of its total staff. EA has announced further layoffs affecting about 670 employees. There's a discussion about the permission structure around layoffs in the game industry and whether it will lead to consolidation or a crash. The creator of a Switch emulator settled a lawsuit with Nintendo for $2.4 million. Toys for Bob, known for Skylanders and Crash Bandicoot, is leaving Activision to become an independent studio. Brad explores the excellence of the original Half-Life and its relevance for modern developers. Developers express concerns about the future of Apple Arcade. Some Tekken 8 players express frustration over the game adding microtransactions.

27 FEB 2024 · Brad is completely captivated by the new poker-styled deckbuilding roguelite Balatro. Microsoft announced some games moving out of their exclusive catalog, raising questions about PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase revealed exciting new releases. EA Sports plans to iincentivize college players to appear in their upcoming game, College Football 25.

13 FEB 2024 · Micah shares his excitement about Tekken 8, expressing his belief that it could be the best installment in the Tekken series thus far. Brad enthusiastically dives into Helldivers II, describing it as one of the finest online shooters he has ever experienced and expressing his delight while playing. Micah delves into his immersive experience with Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, highlighting how it pays homage to longtime fans of the franchise and captures their hearts. Disney announces a significant investment in Epic Games, the maker of Fortnite, with a stake of $1.5 billion, marking a notable development in the gaming industry. IGN creators' guild unionizes, impacting the landscape of games journalism and raising discussions about labor rights in the field. The FTC appeals against Microsoft's acquisition of Activision, amid concerns about potential layoffs resulting from the deal. Brad shares his top picks from Steam NextFest demos, including Balatro, Gatekeeper, Tales of Kenzara: Zao, and The Land Beneath Us, discussing their standout features and gameplay experiences.

6 FEB 2024 · Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League receives worryingly low Metascore and Steam player count, raising concerns about its reception and performance in the gaming community. Reports surface alleging that employees at The Day Before studio face fines for mistakes, shedding light on potential workplace issues within the company. Blizzard appoints a former Call of Duty boss as its new president, signaling leadership changes within the company. Microsoft is reportedly considering releasing their exclusives on PlayStation, generating discussion about their future as a hardware maker in the games industry. Carrie shares her impressions of Persona 3 Reload, discussing how it compares to the original releases and its impact on the gaming experience. Carrie and Brad host an extended edition of the Post Office, covering topics such as Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari and Wrestlemania booking involving Cody Rhodes and The Rock.

30 JAN 2024 · Microsoft announces a significant layoff of 1,900 employees across Xbox and Activision Blizzard, signaling major changes within the gaming industry. Riot Games, the developer of League of Legends, follows suit with layoffs affecting 530 employees, highlighting ongoing challenges in the industry. The studio behind Destroy All Humans cuts half of its staff, reflecting a trend of layoffs affecting game developers. Eidos Montreal cancels a Deus Ex game, leading to further layoffs and raising questions about the future of the franchise. Blizzard announces a new era of Overwatch esports through a partnership with Saudi funding, signaling shifts in the competitive gaming landscape. Carrie shares her enjoyable experience at MAGfest, a gaming and music festival, offering insights into gaming community events. Rocksteady's Suicide Squad early access launch faces bugs, highlighting challenges in game releases. Brad gives a favorable review of Brotato, a game that compares favorably with Vampire Survivors. Micah briefly shares his impressions of Tekken 8, offering initial thoughts on the latest installment in the fighting game series.