Dylan mans the couch by himself to break down the shocking news of EA closing BioWare, discuss immediate reactions and talk about the storied studio’s legacy. Dylan also covers the other EA-related news and an upcoming Game Pass overhaul by Xbox.

YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight

• BioWare Shuts Down As EA Cancels Next Mass Effect Game Amid 400 Layoffs - Explosion Network
• Commander Shepard actors Jennifer Hale & Mark Meer mourn BioWare: 'It was in the hands of ownership that may not have understood what BioWare fully is'' | PC Gamer
• Mass Effect Leaks Reveal Cancelled BioWare Game's Story Would Have Accounted for 'All' Choices From Previous Games
• BioWare's incredible legacy will continue as long as there are RPGs | PC Gamer
• EA Teases Respawn And DICE Collaboration As Star Wars Battlefront 3 Rumours Grow - Explosion Network
• EA cancels unannounced The Sims project, trims the Skate team and reportedly plans to lay off 400 workers: "We're the number one publisher in Western HD gaming" | Eurogamer.net
• A Big Overhaul Of Xbox Game Pass Is In The Works

• 🎵 Music: Dylan Blight
• 🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay

👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

We're reflecting on our time at PAX AUS 2026 & MIGW!

SHOW DOT POINTS

• PAX Melbourne drew around 90,000 attendees on Friday.
• The indie section had more space, allowing for better crowd management.
• Community engagement at PAX offered attendees a different experience.
• The TCG market has grown exponentially since COVID.
• The Game Awards faced criticism regarding their nomination process.
• Big events were noticeably lacking during Melbourne International Games Week.
• The hosts felt fatigued by the end of the week, underscoring the event's intensity.
• Hands-on experiences with new games revealed mixed feelings about gameplay mechanics.
• The hosts said they want more space for TCGs at future events.
• Overall, PAX was a good time with lots of cool stuff to explore. Stranger Peasant's health bar is record-themed.
• Learning to block and dodge is crucial in gameplay.
• The game feels heavier than typical Yakuza games.
• Persona 4 Revival features updated graphics and combat.
• The new monitors at the Persona booth had privacy screens.
• Total Warhammer 40K appeals to franchise fans.
• Nintendo Switch Sports Resort offers a variety of engaging sports.
• Fun Wars is surprisingly enjoyable despite initial scepticism.
• Alien Isolation 2 looks promising and is nearly ready for release.
• The demo experience can vary widely depending on how you play. The demo for Alien Isolation's sequel offers a unique exploration experience.
• Mission Delta stood out as a top indie game at PAX Oz.
• Co-op gameplay in Finch and Archie adds a fun twist to detective games.
• Innovative puzzle mechanics can create engaging gameplay experiences.
• Real Life Party combines FMV with quirky humour for a unique narrative.
• Cozy Game Restoration taps into classic gaming nostalgia.
• Roguelite elements can enhance traditional genres like pinball.
• Hellheartbreaker blends dating sims with action-RPG mechanics.
• Upcoming game releases are shaping the gaming landscape for November.
• GTA 6's release is anticipated to significantly impact the industry.

YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant

• 🎵 Music: Dylan Blight
• 🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay
• 🎨 Artwork: Explosion Network
• 📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM

👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

We discuss the potential for a new Uncharted game in development, whether The Last of Us Part III could be on the cards, and the likelihood of GTA VI being banned in Australia after a recent PEGI rating.

SHOW DOT POINTS

• Xbox is not for sale, despite rumours.
• The gaming industry is filled with mergers and closures.
• Melbourne International Game Week is a highlight for gamers.
• The Australian Game Developer Awards are changing their format this year.
• Mix Tape is a strong contender at the awards.
• New Uncharted game may feature a new protagonist.
• The Last of Us Part Three is highly anticipated by fans.
• Naughty Dog is working on multiple projects in The Last of Us universe.
• Fans are eager for an updated version of Last of Us factions.
• Industry trends are influencing game development strategies. A September PlayStation release is possible.
• Xbox's Mythic Achievements are a long-awaited feature.
• GTA VI's content may lead to classification issues in Australia.
• A potential ban on GTA VI would spark significant backlash.
• Ace Combat 8 delivers a beautiful, thrilling experience.
• The game's soundtrack enhances the overall gameplay experience.
• Ace Combat 8's narrative is complex and engaging.
• Ace Combat 8's visuals are among the best in gaming.
• The hosts emphasise the importance of game marketing timing.
• Achievement hunting is a significant aspect of gaming culture.

YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley

• New Uncharted game reportedly in the works at Naughty Dog, and it's not a remake | Eurogamer.net
• Naughty Dog confirms two more The Last of Us projects are in the works, won't show off Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet until 2027 | Eurogamer.net
• Xbox Mythic Achievements roll out to Insiders and are retroactively awarded as far back as Xbox 360 games | Eurogamer.net
• GTA 6's 18+ age rating reveals Lucia and Jason can partake in drug use "directly from their inventory" and "at any time"
• Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve Review - Explosion Network

• 🎵 Music: Dylan Blight
• 🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay
• 🎨 Artwork: Explosion Network
• 📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM

👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network