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

We discuss the latest Playstation State of Play, sharing our thoughts on each of the trailers, and Dylan has played Elden Ring…Tarnished Edition…on Nintendo Switch 2.

YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley

• Everything Announced At PlayStation State Of Play September 2026 - Explosion Network
• The Blood of the Dawn Walker Review - Explosion Network
• Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition 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

We discuss the news that GTA 6 will be getting a deep dive on Netflix, age verification being required on consoles, and Dylan discusses two games he's been playing: Dosa Divas and Yoshi & The Mysterious Book.

SHOW DOT POINTS

• There were two showcases this week, neither of which we'll be talking about.
• Marvel Token Fighting Soul suffers from widespread PC issues at launch.
• Aussies will now have to age-verify to play R18 games on Xbox.
• This age verification is a response to Australian regulations.
• GTA VI gameplay reveal is coming to Netflix at the end of the month.
• Netflix is leaning into event moments to attract viewers.
• The gaming community is fickle and may refund games due to issues.
• Age verification aims to protect children from inappropriate content.
• The reveal of GTA VI is highly anticipated and could draw new subscribers to Netflix.
• Streaming platforms are changing how game reveals are conducted. Take-Two's CEO emphasises the shift to digital media.
• GTA VI's success is anticipated based on pre-launch metrics.
• The debate between digital and physical media continues to evolve.
• Physical editions may still have a place for collectors.
• Pricing strategies in gaming are influenced by digital sales.
• Yoshi's new game targets a younger audience with its design.
• Dosa Divas explores themes of family and corporate influence.
• The art style of Yoshi's game is less distinct than previous titles.
• Game mechanics in Dosa Divas include turn-based combat and cooking.
• The hosts express excitement for the future of gaming despite challenges.

YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley

• Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls suffers from widespread PC issues at launch | Eurogamer.net
• Aussies Will Now Have To Age Verify To Play R18+ Games On Xbox Series X/PC
• An Extended Look At Grand Theft Auto 6 Gameplay Is Coming To Netflix And Here's All The Aussie Times
• Take-Two's CEO Won't Rule Out Grand Theft Auto 6 On Disc But Says Discs Don't Make Sense Anymore

• 🎵 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 Xbox reportedly closing several of its studios, and what it did wrong to get to this point.

SHOW DOT POINTS

• Xbox's recent studio closures reflect a troubling trend in the gaming industry.
• Xbox's acquisition strategy has led to significant studio instability.
• GTA VI's cover reveal demonstrates the game's cultural significance.
• The gaming community is often left disappointed by corporate decisions.
• Double Fine's potential closure raises questions about creative freedom in gaming.
• Subscription models may not be sustainable for game development.
• The Adventures of Elliot offers a unique gameplay experience but has flaws.
• Voice acting quality can significantly impact player experience.
• The importance of narrative depth in video games is highlighted.
• Community engagement is crucial for the future of gaming discussions.

YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley

• Xbox Is Reportedly About To Shut Down South Of Midnight Studio Compulsion Games Alongside Other Studios
• The Grand Theft Auto 6 Pre-Order Date And Cover Art Have Been Revealed
• Lost Castle 2 Review - Explosion Network

• 🎵 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

Dylan, Ashley, and Ciaran have been playing Big Walk together and discussing getting lost, solving puzzles, and sharing tips for the adventure. They also talk about Tears of Metal, the announcement of Final Fantasy XIV Evercold, and Halo now being on PS5.

SHOW DOT POINTS

• The Big Walk is a co-op puzzle adventure game.
• Communication is essential for success in the game.
• Choosing bright character colours can help avoid getting lost.
• The game features a unique audio design that enhances gameplay.
• Players often find themselves getting lost, adding to the fun.
• Team dynamics play a crucial role in solving puzzles.
• Community engagement can enhance the gaming experience.
• In-game communication is more immersive than using external chat.
• The game is designed for larger groups to maximise enjoyment.
• Items like walkie-talkies and light sources are vital for navigation. The Evercold expansion for Final Fantasy XIV is highly anticipated.
• Players are returning to Final Fantasy XIV with excitement for new content.
• The addition of a butt slider in character customisation is a notable feature.
• Final Fantasy XIV has a strong community that supports new players.
• Marvel's Wolverine is ranked as the top upcoming game by the hosts.
• February 2024 is packed with major game releases, creating a competitive environment.
• The OST of Tears of Metal is a standout feature of the game.
• League of Legends Classic appeals to nostalgia for long-time players.
• The subscription system for Final Fantasy XIV remains complicated.
• Tears of Metal is a promising early access game with potential for growth.

YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant

• Everything Announced At The Final Fantasy XIV Fan Festival Berlin Keynote - Explosion Network
• Ranking Every Major Video Game Releasing In September And October 2026 - Explosion Network
• Here's Every PlayStation Plus Monthly Game For August 2026 - Explosion Network
• Halo: Campaign Evolved Australian Review Roundup – Koalaty Critics - Explosion Network

• 🎵 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