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

Dylan wraps up his review of Marvel's Wolverine, and Ciaran shares his impression of Control Resonant, which is blowing him away.

SHOW DOT POINTS

• The GTA VI Collector's Edition has sparked outrage for its high price, even though it doesn't include the game.
• Criticism of video games often stems from negativity and rage-baiting content.
• Resident Evil fans have high expectations due to the franchise's history of successful releases.
• The Wolverine game has a predictable story but strong character relationships.
• The Wolverine game's combat mechanics are seen as bland and unengaging.
• Control Resident offers a refreshing gameplay experience compared to Wolverine.
• Control Resident's customisation options support varied gameplay styles.
• The narrative and aesthetic of Control Resident are praised for their depth.
• Dylan, the protagonist in Control Resident, is a complex character with a compelling backstory.
• Remedy's ability to produce quality games without Sam Lake's direct involvement is commendable. Ciaran expresses excitement about the Remedyverse and its potential future titles.
• The hosts discuss the implications of Activision taking over the Halo franchise.
• Concerns arise about Halo's direction under Activision's leadership.
• The consolidation of Xbox studios raises questions about the future of game development.
• The cancellation of the Ganondorf spin-off highlights how unpredictable game development can be.
• The hosts reflect on the challenges studios face in today's gaming landscape.
• The episode evokes nostalgia for the earlier Halo games and their impact on players.
• The conversation touches on the importance of narrative in gaming.
• The hosts speculate on the future of gaming collaborations between studios.
• The episode concludes with a call for listener engagement and feedback.

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 react to the Instagram comments about Ciaran's comments on last week's episode, discuss the Xbox layoffs and talk about AC: Black Flag.

SHOW DOT POINTS

• Dylan returns after a two-week break, sparking banter.
• The gaming industry is facing more negative news.
• Social media reactions to Kieran's comments are intense.
• Consumers are upset about corporate control in gaming.
• Companies prioritise profit over consumer interests.
• The gaming industry struggles with sustainability and layoffs.
• Physical media is becoming obsolete in gaming.
• Video game conservation is a growing concern.
• Consumer behaviour affects game sales and studio viability.
• The transition to digital media is inevitable and controversial. Limited-run physical editions may not work for games.
• Gamers often justify their digital purchases with physical purchases.
• Microtransactions have been a part of gaming for years.
• Single-player games with microtransactions shouldn't affect others.
• Xbox's restructuring reflects a broader industry trend.
• Layoffs are painful but sometimes necessary for survival.
• The gaming industry may see fewer AAA titles in the future.
• The quality of games may decline as budgets increase.
• IO Interactive is refocusing on core titles after losing funding.
• The Black Flag remake offers a fresh experience for new players.

YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant

• Microsoft announces 3200 layoffs and four studio departures in "most significant" Xbox restructuring in history | Eurogamer.net
• IO Interactive regains full ownership of Project Fantasy following end of Xbox deal, shuts down Istanbul studio and lays off developers "to find a new balance" | Eurogamer.net

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

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

Leaks of GTA VI have dominated the news this week, with fans debating whether they are justified and if they actually help any cause. Plus, Horizon Hunters Gathering is going back to the drawing board, and we now have a new Kratos.

YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant

00:00:00 - Intro 00:00:36 - GTA VI Leaks Keep Coming 00:08:25 - GTA VI Extended Look Expectations 00:22:40 - Horizon Hunters Gathering Getting Rebooted 00:28:44 - Batista is Kratos 00:33:39 - Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2 is coming in October 00:35:55 - Riot is ending development of 2XKO 00:33:39 - Opening Night Live Expectations 00:46:34 - Goodbye

• Is this the end of the GTA 6 leaks? Take-Two's legal crusade appears to shut down the hubs behind them | Eurogamer.net
• PlayStation Reportedly Reboots Horizon Multiplayer Spinoff Following Negative Feedback
• Dave Bautista Officially Set as Kratos in 'God of War' TV Series
• The second season of Netflix's Cyberpunk Edgerunners anime releases this year | Eurogamer.net
• Riot Games to end LoL fighting game 2XK0's development and issue refunds, less than a year since launch | Eurogamer.net
• Gamescom 2026: Geoff Keighley and organizers reveal what to expect from gaming’s biggest event | VGC Eurogamer.net

• 🎵 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 discuss GTA VI: Extended Look, the trailers from Gamescom ONL 2026, and which games are releasing in September.

YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant

• Xbox announces disc-to-digital feature that lets you digitise physical Xbox One and Series X games | Eurogamer.net
• Everything Announced At The Gamescom Opening Night Live 2026 Event
• Double Fine confirms it owns all its games' IP and publishing rights after Xbox split | Eurogamer.net
• What Video Games Are Coming Out in September 2026? - 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