This week's show features everything from zombie screening in Quarantine Zone to modding your Switch 2 Joy-cons, making video game documentaries from primary research, our hopes for a third Wolfenstein game (and maybe a StarCraft shooter?), a sad farewell to Twisted Pixel, a long-ish deep dive on sequels in film and video games, and a bunch more.

The VGHF's NES documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJvpRGibFhg

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:02:07) How expensive is the noise your house is making?
(00:05:48) People walking around on your property
(00:14:39) The Untold Story of the Nintendo Entertainment System
(00:24:58) Mosa Lina  |  [Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Oct 17, 2023
(00:29:01) First Break
(00:29:05) Quarantine Zone: The Last Check  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Jan 12, 2026
(00:41:20) Absolum  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5]  |  Oct 09, 2025
(00:46:48) The Séance of Blake Manor  |  [Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Oct 27, 2025
(00:48:51) Tetris 99 and replacing Switch 2 d-pads
(00:56:44) Silent Hill f  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Sep 25, 2025
(00:59:44) Second Break
(00:59:50) Sounds like we'll get a Wolfenstein 3
(01:09:48) Avowed is getting a PS5 release
(01:13:17) They are taking another stab at a StarCraft shooter?
(01:18:22) Oh Meta, do you deserve such ire? Almost certainly.
(01:38:54) Emails
(02:01:27) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:03:05) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:04:51) Nextlander Content Updates
(02:09:37) See Ya!

Let's start 2026 by chatting about games we played over the break, including Miles Morales, Civ 7, Absolum, and Vinny's... feelings about Metroid Prime 4. We also round up the the news over the holiday, like the tragic passing of Vince Zampella, next-gen consoles maybe getting delayed, possible new DLC for The Witcher 3, changes in GOG's ownership, and more.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:03:00) 2026 and the business of video games
(00:06:10) Some purchases during our break
(00:13:38) Professor Layton still rules
(00:18:15) What the heck are the kids reading these days?
(00:19:18) No more generations, except Generation Remix
(00:21:47) Metroid Prime 4: Beyond  |  [Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Dec 04, 2025
(00:32:52) First Break
(00:35:13) More of the games we played during break
(00:35:46) Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales  |  [PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5]  |  Nov 12, 2020
(00:42:12) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(00:45:43) Sid Meier's Civilization VII  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch]  |  Feb 11, 2025
(00:51:51) Absolum  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5]  |  Oct 09, 2025
(00:58:35) Second Break
(00:58:40) Vince Zampella's death
(01:05:55) RAM prices and next gen planning
(01:13:56) The Witcher 3 is getting more DLC?
(01:16:52) GOG is being sold... sort of?
(01:19:52) Yoji Shinkawa designs some real gear!
(01:27:02) Alex has some breaking news
(01:28:55) Emails
(01:40:32) Wrapping up and thanks
(01:44:07) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(01:46:32) See ya!

In our second and final year-end wrap-up, we detail numbers 4 through 1 on our personal GOTY lists, and then dive into an array of honorable (and not too many dishonorable) mentions before pondering the year ahead. Happy new year!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:17) Brad's recap from last episode
(00:01:55) Vinny's recap from last episode
(00:02:10) Alex's recap from last episode
(00:02:29) Number 04 [Brad]
(00:10:04) Number 04 [Vinny]
(00:16:18) Number 04 [Alex]
(00:22:55) Number 03 [Brad]
(00:31:03) Number 03 [Vinny]
(00:31:21) Number 03 [Alex]
(00:38:12) First Break
(00:38:17) Number 02 [Brad]
(00:45:34) Number 02 [Vinny]
(00:52:49) Number 02 [Alex]
(00:57:38) Number 01 [Brad]
(01:16:09) Number 01 [Vinny]
(01:29:34) Number 01 [Alex]
(01:38:21) Second Break
(01:38:26) Honorable Mentions
(02:17:56) The games that missed the mark for us
(02:24:05) ...and nobody talked about Maro Kart World
(02:25:05) There's always more to talk about...
(02:27:06) Brad's Top Ten Games of 2025
(02:27:25) Vinny's Top Ten Games of 2025
(02:27:53) Alex's Top Ten Games of 2025
(02:28:13) Wrapping up and thanks for 2025
(02:31:20) See ya
(02:31:41) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts

For our final two podcasts of 2025, we're getting together to lay out and discuss our personal top 10 lists. This week we reflect a bit on the state of games over the past year before running through numbers 10 through 5 on our lists. Hope you're having a happy holiday!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:11:15) Number 10 [Brad]
(00:17:34) Number 10 [Vinny]
(00:24:01) Number 10 [Alex]
(00:28:27) Number 09 [Brad]
(00:30:58) Number 09 [Vinny]
(00:31:42) Number 09 [Alex]
(00:36:28) Number 08 [Brad]
(00:46:32) First Break
(00:46:37) Number 08 [Vinny]
(00:47:57) Number 08 [Alex]
(00:49:44) Number 07 [Brad]
(00:50:24) Number 07 [Alex]
(01:06:38) Number 07 [Vinny]
(01:07:14) Number 06 [Brad]
(01:16:14) Number 06 [Vinny]
(01:22:26) Second Break
(01:22:30) Number 06 [Alex]
(01:26:29) Number 05 [Brad]
(01:37:25) Number 05 [Vinny]
(01:37:48) Number 05 [Alex]
(01:46:43) Brad numbers 10 through 05 recap
(01:47:05) Vinny's Number 10 through 05 recap
(01:47:23) Alex's Number 10 through 05 recap
(01:47:38) Wrapping up
(01:49:35) See Ya!
(01:49:48) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts

We spend most of this week's show unpacking all the announcements and trailers out of the Game Awards, including Control Resonant, Ontos, Gang of Dragon, Divinity, the Street Fighter movie, Mega Man: Dual Override, Star Wars: Galactic Racer and Fate of the Old Republic, and a ton of other stuff. Plus, games we plan to dig into over the holidays, some final thoughts as we approach the end of 2025, and more!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:04:30) The Game Awards get A LOT of views
(00:07:54) Physical games and hardware sales
(00:10:52) Let's talk about the announcements
(00:11:07) South of Midnight  |  [PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Q2 2026
(00:11:36) Star Wars: Fate of the Old Republic  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  TBD
(00:16:21) Star Wars: Galactic Racer  |  [Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2026
(00:19:59) The Street Fighter movie trailer
(00:31:25) First Break
(00:31:30) Warlock  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2027
(00:33:42) Divinity  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(00:35:18) Ontos  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2026
(00:38:09) Warframe: The Old Peace  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, PlayStation 4]  |  Dec 10, 2025
(00:39:04) Soulframe (Beta) |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(00:40:02) Bradley the Badger  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(00:41:51) TankRat  |  [PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Q2 2026
(00:42:40) Screamer  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Mar 26, 2026
(00:43:17) Gang of Dragon  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(00:45:02) The expected announcements
(00:45:15) Mega Man: Dual Override  |  [Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2027
(00:46:28) Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2026
(00:46:46) Tomb Raider: Catalyst  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2027
(00:47:45) Control Resonant  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Mac]  |  2026
(00:51:11) Total War: Warhammer 40,000  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  TBD
(00:52:50) Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve  |  [PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2026
(00:53:42) Coven of the Chicken Foot  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(00:54:34) 007 First Light  |  [Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Mar 27, 2026
(00:57:08) Forest 3  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(00:59:27) Out of Words  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2026
(01:01:42) A few other games we'd like to mention
(01:02:17) Pragmata  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Apr 24, 2026
(01:02:47) Audiomech: Your Music Transformed  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(01:03:22) Solasta II (Early Access) |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Mar 12, 2026
(01:03:28) Highguard  |  [PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Jan 26, 2026
(01:08:14) Our highlights
(01:08:57) Anything missing we thought might be there?
(01:12:49) Second Break
(01:12:54) Games we want to play during the break
(01:22:24) Metroid Prime 4: Beyond  |  [Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Dec 04, 2025
(01:32:09) Silent Hill f  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Sep 25, 2025
(01:33:51) Light Up the Town  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Dec 07, 2025
(01:39:16) Emails
(01:43:31) Wrapping up and thanks
(01:46:42) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(01:48:58) Nextlander content updates
(01:50:14) Goodbye 2025, Hello 2026!
(01:50:29) See Ya!

Brad got a Switch 2, and played Metroid Prime 4 on it, and we talk about that, Skate Story, the end of Silent Hill f, a bunch of Game Awards announcement speculation, the resurrection of Romero Games' latest project, whatever the hell is going on with Call of Duty right now, the immortal might of Shang Tsung, our love of Roger Ebert, a shocking revelation about controller face buttons, and a bunch more on this week's show.


CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:09) Intro
(00:14:13) Metroid Prime 4: Beyond | [Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2] | Dec 04, 2025
(00:42:07) First Break
(00:42:11) Skate Story | [Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Mac] | Dec 08, 2025
(00:49:28) Silent Hill f | [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S] | Sep 25, 2025
(00:57:30) The Séance of Blake Manor | [Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows)] | Oct 27, 2025
(00:57:53) Marvel Cosmic Invasion | [Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, Linux] | Dec 01, 2025
(00:58:10) Absolum | [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5] | Oct 09, 2025
(00:59:30) Void Crew | [PC (Microsoft Windows)] | Nov 25, 2024
(01:03:59) Second Break
(01:04:03) The Game Awards is soon and news is swirling
(01:04:24) Larian may have a new game in the Divinity series
(01:07:49) Capcom wants more Mega Man (and other) games!
(01:12:29) Tomb Raider will have something to show at The Game Awards
(01:17:16) Warner Bros. and Netflix... What will it mean for the games?
(01:29:01) Katsuhiro Harada retires from Tekken
(01:31:46) John Romero's latest project is still alive
(01:35:02) Tim Cain returns to Obsidian
(01:37:28) Call of Duty will slow down with the releases
(01:45:36) Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa has passed away
(01:47:58) Emails
(01:57:32) Wrapping up and thanks
(01:59:31) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:01:08) Nextlander Content Updates
(02:02:46) See ya!

We're chock-a-block with stuff to talk about this week, from the Analogue 3D to Horses (both the game and its banning), Marvel Cosmic Invasion, the Fortnite chapter 6 ending bonanza, more with Silent Hill f, a surprising amount of news about the possible futures of franchises like Dead Rising, Control, Metal Gear, and Hitman, your emails, and more!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:46) Podcast Celebrities vs Celebrity Podcasters
(00:11:38) Alex got an Analogue 3D!
(00:28:57) First Break
(00:33:34) Marvel Cosmic Invasion  |  [Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, Linux]  |  Dec 01, 2025
(00:46:51) Horses  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Dec 02, 2025
(01:06:51) Silent Hill f  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Sep 25, 2025
(01:21:06) The Séance of Blake Manor  |  [Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Oct 27, 2025
(01:24:34) Hollow Knight: Silksong  |  [Linux, Mac, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One]  |  Sep 04, 2025
(01:24:59) Fortnite  |  [Android, iOS, Xbox One, Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4]  |  Jun 29, 2020
(01:49:40) Second Break
(01:49:44) New Dead Rising in the works?
(01:56:31) Control: Resonant is trademarked ahead of the Game Awards...
(02:03:00) Of course they are still going to make Hitman!
(02:08:55) Should we better recognize the performance capture for characters?
(02:17:12) What's next for Metal Gear? Probably nothing around Sons of the Patriots
(02:22:37) Emails
(02:31:52) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:36:28) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:39:02) Nextlander content updates
(02:42:41) See ya!

Brad and Vinny produce the rare duos podcast this week with deep(er) dives into Silent Hill f and Hollow Knight: Silksong, a look at The Séance of Blake Manor, the new Vampire Survivors quasi-sequel, Valve's comments on Steam Machine pricing/Linux anti-cheat/Half-Life 3, the passing of Udo Kier, Thanksgiving turkey (and other fowl) strategies, our annual recitation of Final Fantasy character names, and more!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:06:07) Silent Hill f  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Sep 25, 2025
(00:23:50) First Break
(00:23:54) The Séance of Blake Manor  |  [Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Oct 27, 2025
(00:31:54) Hollow Knight: Silksong  |  [Linux, Mac, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One]  |  Sep 04, 2025
(00:33:29) [SPOILERS] Some Silksong items, areas, and encounters
(00:50:47) Fortnite: Chapter 6 - Mini Season 2: The Simpsons  |  [Android, iOS, Mac, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Nov 01, 2025
(00:55:05) Second Break
(00:55:09) More updates about the Steam Machine
(01:15:55) What's next for the Vampire Survivors folks?
(01:19:29) Will we see more of Naughty Dog's Intergalactic soon?
(01:24:40) Udo Kier has passed away at 81
(01:28:01) Emails
(01:51:05) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(01:55:24) See ya!

This week we dig into hot, brand-new video games like Metal Gear Solid and Nier: Automata, plus Lumines Arise's multiplayer, the ending chapters of Dispatch, Sektori, whatever's going on with Ubisoft, the loss of "Burger" Becky Heineman, Megabonk's stand-up Game Awards move, a "will it come out in 2026" quiz, and more!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:23) Some pure personal project nonsense
(00:05:57) That TV project is almost done!
(00:12:22) Extra Life 2025!
(00:18:25) Dispatch  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Oct 22, 2025
(00:32:58) First Break
(00:36:49) Lumines Arise  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, PlayStation VR2, SteamVR]  |  Nov 11, 2025
(00:54:36) Sektori  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Nov 18, 2025
(01:01:05) Plenty of games too play!
(01:02:07) Hollow Knight: Silksong  |  [Linux, Mac, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One]  |  Sep 04, 2025
(01:03:12) Morsels  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Nov 18, 2025
(01:05:46) Metal Gear Solid  |  [PlayStation]  |  Oct 20, 1998
(01:19:07) Silent Hill f  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Sep 25, 2025
(01:22:22) Second Break
(01:22:32) What is happening at Ubisoft?
(01:32:10) Rebecca Heineman has passed away
(01:38:54) Yoko Taro is still trying to make games!
(01:42:34) Megabonk and The Game Awards
(01:52:03) Will Concord be playable again?
(02:01:16) Emails
(02:32:21) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:37:57) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts

This is it: the final Death Stranding 2 spoilercast. Lumines Arise is also out, and that game is an extreme banger. Valve crashes back into the hardware market with a new Steam Machine, VR headset, and controller. Grand Theft Auto VI gets yet another delay. We even hear from someone who's had both the McDonald's Pizza and the Street Fighter burgers. Real action-packed week on the ol' Nextlander Podcast!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:09) Intro
(00:02:15) Alex has some big news for everyone
(00:07:51) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(00:08:23) [SPOILERS] All the Death Stranding spoilers are here.
(01:31:13) First Break
(01:31:17) Lumines Arise  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, PlayStation VR2, SteamVR]  |  Nov 11, 2025
(01:44:27) Thrasher  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), SteamVR, Linux]  |  Nov 07, 2025
(01:49:54) Dispatch  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Oct 22, 2025
(01:53:22) Silent Hill f  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Sep 25, 2025
(01:54:21) Hollow Knight: Silksong  |  [Linux, Mac, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One]  |  Sep 04, 2025
(01:57:17) Second Break
(01:57:21) Initial thoughts on the Valve hardware dump
(02:21:09) Grand Theft Auto is delayed... again
(02:22:34) More about the firings from Rockstar
(02:27:48) Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra also delayed
(02:33:28) Emails
(02:39:44) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:43:55) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:46:26) See ya!

This week, the wild social dynamics of ARC Raiders, The Simpsons get Brad back into Fortnite, Vinny finishes Death Stranding 2 and starts Dispatch, the Switch 2 is still selling like hotcakes, Sony might allow cross-buying PS5 and PC games, and we find out what happened to Rockstar's Agent. It's a video game podcast!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:20) Alex in NYC
(00:03:43) ARC Raiders  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Oct 30, 2025
(00:29:29) Satisfactory  |  [PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Nov 04, 2025
(00:31:40) First Break
(00:38:07) Dispatch  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Oct 22, 2025
(00:49:01) Silent Hill f  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Sep 25, 2025
(00:56:37) Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Oct 30, 2025
(01:09:14) Fortnite: Chapter 6 - Mini Season 2: The Simpsons  |  [Android, iOS, Mac, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Nov 01, 2025
(01:20:32) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(01:20:48) [SPOILERS] Definitely some story talk as we near the end. Getting to the good stuff!
(01:46:21) Second Break
(01:46:26) News
(01:46:47) Nintendo Switch 2 selling extremely well!
(01:51:19) Animal Crossing: New Horizons getting some love
(01:56:14) Rumors of Sony implementing a Cross-Buy on PC system
(02:03:36) Dan Houser talks about Agent
(02:07:42) Rockstar accused of 'Union Busting' with recent layoffs
(02:12:27) Emails
(02:28:04) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:31:49) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:34:28) Nextlander content updates
(02:36:09) See ya!

If you want to hear us gush for like an hour about Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection, this is the episode for you, and we also fit in discussion of Halo on PlayStation and the increasing demands on the Xbox business, the Kojima Matrix game that almost was, Once Upon a Katamari, Dead Reset, Jackbox 11, and... wait, did you think we forgot Death Stranding 2? THINK AGAIN.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:39) Health insurance premiums are too high for nugget challenges
(00:08:15) Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Oct 30, 2025
(00:58:52) First Break
(00:58:57) The Jackbox Party Pack 11  |  [Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Oct 23, 2025
(01:02:12) Dead Reset  |  [Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, iOS, Android]  |  Sep 11, 2025
(01:03:07) Once Upon a Katamari  |  [PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Oct 24, 2025
(01:08:49) Ball x Pit  |  [PlayStation 5, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch]  |  Oct 15, 2025
(01:11:10) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(01:11:37) [Spoilers] Some story moments and locations are talked about.
(01:26:41) Second Break
(01:27:50) Xbox and Microsoft continue to be in the news.
(01:51:32) EA staff reportedly being urged to engage with a lot of AI
(01:58:40) Konami says Kojima was asked to make a Matrix game?
(02:06:58) Battle Arena Toshinden franchise getting a re-release?
(02:11:18) Emails
(02:18:39) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:23:59) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:26:07) Nextlander content updates
(02:29:16) See ya!

Video games! There's a bunch of them to talk about this week, including Keeper, Dead Reset, Easy Delivery Co., Ball x Pit, Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted, a quick Steam Next Fest co-op roundup... and some Death Stranding 2. In the news, the sudden passing of Team Ninja's Tomonobu Itagaki, The Simpsons (maybe) in Fortnite, and probably more discussion of Street Fighter hamburgers than was really necessary.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:08) Intro
(00:07:51) Time to rack everything and unload these desktop cases
(00:14:27) Keeper  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Oct 17, 2025
(00:25:36) Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted  |  [Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox One, PlayStation 4]  |  Oct 23, 2025
(00:29:18) First Break
(00:32:04) Noise complaints!
(00:34:00) Some Co-op Next Fest games
(00:34:21) Yapyap  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(00:36:01) Roadside Research  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2025
(00:36:49) Ultimate Sheep Raccoon  |  [Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One]  |  Q4 2025
(00:37:14) Final Sentence  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Q4 2025
(00:44:47) Easy Delivery Co.  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Sep 18, 2025
(00:48:20) Dead Reset  |  [Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, iOS, Android]  |  Sep 11, 2025
(00:51:47) Some other games Alex has touched
(00:53:00) Ball x Pit  |  [PlayStation 5, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch]  |  Oct 15, 2025
(00:57:07) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(00:57:21) [Spoiler Warning] Mostly enemies, items, locations, etc
(01:18:55) Second Break
(01:19:00) News
(01:19:13) Team Ninja founder Itagaki has passed away
(01:32:58) Dan Forden from Mortal Kombat is retired
(01:35:22) [Note: We lost some audio here so this next section uses a backup if things sound weird]
(01:35:26) Rare's Gregg Mayles has also retired
(01:38:52) Fortnite might be getting some Simpsons?
(01:47:35) Delicious Street Burgers
(01:55:32) Emails
(02:06:52) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:08:35) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:11:57) See ya!

Apparently it's time to start talking in earnest about next-generation video game consoles this week, and we add to that discussion of Ball x Pit, Battlefield 6, Wildgate, Steam Next Fest demos like Skate Story and Star Trek: Voyager ? Across the Unknown, and, yes, Death Stranding 2. Also, a Max Effect check-in, the shocking truth about those Pikmin shorts, and more!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:09) Intro
(00:00:49) Turns out I bought a lot of dumb stuff in the years since I started cleaning out the basement
(00:10:36) Ball x Pit  |  [PlayStation 5, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch]  |  Oct 15, 2025
(00:27:32) First Break
(00:27:37) Battlefield 6  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Oct 10, 2025
(00:39:26) Skate Story  |  [Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Mac]  |  Dec 08, 2025
(00:45:02) Marvel Cosmic Invasion  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Q4 2025
(00:49:46) No, I'm Not A Human  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Sep 15, 2025
(00:55:50) Star Trek: Voyager - Across the Unknown  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  TBD
(01:07:40) Half Sword  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2025
(01:08:09) Wildgate  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Jul 22, 2025
(01:14:43) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(01:14:48) [Warning: Possible Spoilers for Death Stranding 2]
(01:27:58) Second Break
(01:28:02) Let's talk about some rumors concerning the next consoles
(01:57:47) Those Pikmin animated shorts may have just been animated shorts
(01:59:38) Emails
(02:09:22) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:12:29) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:14:03) Nextlander content updates
(02:16:39) See ya!

It's a catch-up week around here as Brad and Vinny barrel toward the end of Death Stranding 2, Alex breaks the seal on Megabonk, and we all come to terms with what Baby Steps is asking of us. In the news, more goings on with Game Pass, Circana's latest stats on how many people are (or aren't) buying games, Nintendo's possible Pikmin movie/show/something, and more. Plus, David Lynch's house for sale, furniture made out of video game characters, and more of your emails!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:04:07) The spider showdown!
(00:09:03) Baby Steps  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Sep 23, 2025
(00:27:59) Pocket Boss  |  [Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Oct 08, 2025
(00:31:14) First Break
(00:33:53) [SPOILERS] Death Stranding 2 stuff, nothing big but general warning
(00:34:26) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(00:58:10) Jump Space (Early Access) |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Sep 19, 2025
(01:01:59) Megabonk  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux]  |  Sep 18, 2025
(01:09:04) Second Break
(01:09:09) It's official, there's never been a better time to play games... especially for 14 percent of us.
(01:26:00) Some updates on Microsoft's Game Pass changes
(01:30:17) Red Dead Redemption 2 may still be coming to this generation!
(01:33:09) What is Nintendo's new Pikmin thing?
(01:37:58) Of course Fortnite has KPop Demon Hunters in it
(01:44:44) Emails
(02:03:21) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:05:35) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:07:28) Nextlander Content Updates
(02:09:53) See ya!

With Vinny back in the "office," this week we catch up on more Ghost of Yotei, Baby Steps, and Death Stranding, plus newcomers Megabonk and The Lift, dive into all the big news about the EA buyout and Game Pass price increase, give a little swan song for Rock Band 4, talk through the family Street Fighter progression, fantasize about installing your own soda fountain at home, and more.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:05:18) Street Fighter 6 is a really fun!
(00:09:13) Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds  |  [Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox One]  |  Sep 25, 2025
(00:18:08) Blippo+  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Sep 23, 2025
(00:26:42) First Break
(00:26:57) Ghost of Yotei  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Oct 02, 2025
(00:41:46) The Lift (Alpha) |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Sep 16, 2025
(00:47:02) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(00:47:23) [Warning: We don't talk story stuff but we do talk about gear you get]
(01:06:19) Baby Steps  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Sep 23, 2025
(01:12:14) Megabonk  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux]  |  Sep 18, 2025
(01:16:27) V Rising  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  May 08, 2024
(01:17:09) Second Break
(01:17:14) EA to be acquired for $55 billion
(01:50:20) Game Pass getting a price bump
(02:06:55) Xbox Ally pricing confirmed
(02:10:52) Forza Horizon 6 won't be on PS5 at launch
(02:12:57) Rock Band 4 to be delisted
(02:18:52) Doug Bowser is leaving Nintendo
(02:25:14) Emails
(02:31:34) Watchcast updates
(02:35:14) NXL Content Updates
(02:37:12) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:38:55) Wrapping up and go drink wine and play Smash Bros?
(02:41:52) See ya!

Our friend Austin Walker stops by to join us for an absolutely jam-packed conversation about new and upcoming games we've been playing, including Ghost of Yotei, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, Baby Steps, Metroid Prime 4, Kirby Air Riders, and Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 for Switch. Also, pre-TGS updates on Yakuza Kiwami 3 and Kojima Productions' Physint and OD, the GDC rebrand, college courses about games, an update on Austin's tabletop RPG Realis, import tariffs on human flesh, and more!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:35) Austin Walker is here!
(00:02:30) An update on Realis
(00:03:24) Sorry, we're importing what now?
(00:10:03) Ghost of Yotei  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Oct 01, 2025
(00:33:14) Recent firing at Sucker Punch
(00:39:58) First Break
(00:40:03) Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles  |  [PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, Steam]  |  Sep 30, 2025
(01:14:04) Baby Steps  |  [PlayStation 5, Steam]  |  Sep 23, 2025
(01:31:40) Second Break
(01:31:45) Metroid Prime 4  |  [Nintendo Switch, Switch 2]  |  Dec 04 2025
(01:38:26) Kirby Air Riders  |  [Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Nov 20 2025
(01:45:23) Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2  |  [Nintendo Switch]  |  Oct 02 2025
(01:48:43) Supergiant interlude (Hades II, Pyre)
(01:50:41) That Virtual Boy add-on
(01:54:29) News
(01:54:48) Kojima Productions' pre-TGS news (Physint, OD trailer, Death Stranding movie)
(02:02:49) Yakuza Kiwami 3 announced
(02:09:21) The Game Developers Conference has rebranded
(02:19:08) Email! (about teaching games in college)
(02:26:55) Thanks again Austin!
(02:31:14) Mysterious benefactors!
(02:32:45) Content and bye!

The Nextlander Podcast is taking a week off, so we bring you a classic NBABP episode, in which Abby Russell and Dan Ryckert join us to talk about eating food, eating not-food, and finding peace in the Internet Age.

CHAPTERS

(00:01:24) Intro
(00:01:47) "Don't Ask Me!"
(00:02:35) How's Metal Gear Solid doing?
(00:03:41) What's going on with new space-themed Lego?
(00:04:27) Dan's the secret leaker
(00:05:14) God of War secrets revealed
(00:06:24) Video games made into shows and movies
(00:07:44) Does getting ripped make you less fun?
(00:10:32) "I could eat a tennis ball"
(00:10:52) Cooking with Dan
(00:15:23) Tales from the Microwave
(00:19:04) I actually looked this up and it seems like your skin just burns and you die.
(00:21:48) First Break
(00:21:58) Favorite YouTuber
(00:26:17) Dan's unplugging
(00:34:52) Any vacation plans for Abby?
(00:35:23) Can Alex find peace in wilderness?
(00:38:03) Second Break
(00:38:16) Getting in your own head
(00:42:41) Pottery Updates
(00:46:43) Dan is getting into electronics and console modding!
(00:48:01) How is the speed running going?
(00:55:07) Dan's fancy smart-bed
(00:57:58) Wrapping up

Silksong has happened, it's out, and of course we discuss it this week, along with Cronos: The New Dawn, Adventure of Samsara, the return of the new Acclaim, that third Wolfenstein game we still hope to play one day, Nintendo Direct predictions, the video game mega-anniversary of September 9th, some surprising facts about the PlayStation's sales numbers, and more.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:03:23) Speaking of anniversaries...09/09!
(00:08:53) Hollow Knight: Silksong  |  [Linux, Mac, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One]  |  Sep 04, 2025
(00:32:34) First Break
(00:32:38) Cronos: The New Dawn  |  [PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Sep 05, 2025
(00:49:23) Adventure of Samsara  |  [Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Linux]  |  Sep 04, 2025
(00:55:46) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(01:05:59) Second Break
(01:06:03) News
(01:06:19) Welcome back, Acclaim?
(01:13:32) Lenovo's next handheld will support an Xbox mode
(01:18:54) Will the Wolfenstein Trilogy ever be told?
(01:26:41) Nintendo will have its longest Direct ever?
(01:31:07) Star Wars Outlaws on Switch 2 updates
(01:37:50) Emails
(01:41:59) Wrapping up and thanks
(01:44:45) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(01:46:24) Be good out there folks
(01:47:04) To-dos for next week?
(01:48:36) See ya!

This week we get into a young man's first Mass Effect, Brad's tumble back down the Death Stranding 2 hole, Vinny finishing Shinobi, Alex making stern faces at Madden, a portable PlayStation 6 (??), Take-Two's nearly closed deal to pick up Perfect Dark, Saudi Arabia's new ownership stake in Evo, grandfathers who love Bubsy, old jokes that never actually existed, the enduring cultural influence of AMVs, and more.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:32) Alex's App Story
(00:09:04) Revisiting Mass Effect through the youth
(00:28:17) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(00:54:17) First Break
(00:56:37) Shinobi: Art of Vengeance  |  [Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Aug 29, 2025
(01:03:13) Hollow Knight: Silksong  |  [Linux, Mac, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Sep 04, 2025
(01:05:26) Madden NFL 26  |  [Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Aug 14, 2025
(01:08:04) Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Definitive Edition  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Aug 14, 2025
(01:10:37) Second Break
(01:10:42) Sony's possible storage downgrades
(01:15:35) Rumors of a Sony handheld are back
(01:38:33) The story of Perfect Dark continues... for a bit
(01:45:45) Saudi Arabia gets involved in EVO
(01:54:34) Emails
(02:16:52) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:22:56) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:24:24) Nextlander Content Updates
(02:25:38) See ya!

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is our top game this week, plus one of us gets an up-close look at Bubsy 4D, the Hollow Knight Silksong release date fallout, Forza Horizon might be headed to Japan, Atari now owns Child of Eden and Grow Home, some highly important games are coming to the Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection, and more.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:29) The universal language of 'Thumbs Up!"
(00:07:51) Shinobi: Art of Vengeance  |  [Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Aug 29, 2025
(00:31:34) First Break
(00:31:38) Sword of the Sea  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Aug 19, 2025
(00:35:17) Bubsy 4D  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5]  |  TBD
(00:56:14) She Sees Red  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Jul 11, 2019
(01:00:34) Be careful with your FMV nudity on YouTube
(01:04:48) Second Break
(01:04:52) Silksong finally gets its release date
(01:12:59) Skate also gets its [Early Access] date!
(01:19:49) Forza Horizon 6 might take place and be announced in Japan?
(01:26:53) Atari wants to revive some old Ubisoft titles
(01:32:56) Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection adds more games
(01:46:11) Emails
(01:54:26) Wrapping up and thanks
(01:59:10) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:00:43) Nextlander Content Updates
(02:01:51) See Ya

This week: New video games! Sword of the Sea, Is This Seat Taken?, and yes, the annual Madden check-in. In the news, PS5 price increases in the US, Halo on a PlayStation (sort of), a Gamescom wrap-up including Road Kings, WH40K: Dawn of War IV, and uh, Bubsy 4D, and lastly... maybe Hollow Knight Silksong is getting a release date. Or maybe it's just out now?

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:03:03) I need to be more Coonce-like in my approach to stress
(00:05:18) 2 weeks? 2 weeks... Construction updates
(00:08:09) Mafia: The Old Country  |  [PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Aug 08, 2025
(00:15:46) Sword of the Sea  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Aug 19, 2025
(00:28:19) First Break
(00:28:24) Madden NFL 26  |  [Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Aug 14, 2025
(00:38:45) Is This Seat Taken?  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch]  |  Aug 2025
(00:44:34) The other games in our lives
(00:49:13) Second Break
(00:49:18) Sometimes spam gets tricky folks...
(00:51:01) Gamescom 2025
(00:55:43) Star Trek Voyager: Across the Unknown
(00:57:42) Bubsy 4D  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5]  |  TBD
(00:59:42) Road Kings  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2026
(01:02:04) Routine  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Q4 2025
(01:03:51) Cronos: The New Dawn  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Sep 05, 2025
(01:04:53) Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War IV  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(01:10:18) John Carpenter's Toxic Commando  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2026
(01:10:49) Hollow Knight: Silksong  |  [Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Mac, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Linux]  |  2025
(01:12:16) LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight  |  [PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2026
(01:12:28) La Divina Commedia
(01:12:45) Silent Hill f  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Sep 25, 2025
(01:12:56) Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Oct 21, 2025
(01:13:30) Resident Evil: Requiem  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Feb 27, 2026
(01:14:03) Death by Scrolling
(01:14:26) Cult of the Lamb: Woolhaven  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2026
(01:14:56) Fallout Season 2
(01:15:38) Denshattack!  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5]  |  Q2 2026
(01:18:27) Silksong has/had a big announcement!
(01:22:34) Rod Fegusson joins the BioShock 4 team
(01:27:14) Halo and Helldivers join forces
(01:29:56) PlayStation consoles in the U.S. are getting a price increase
(01:33:32) Emails
(01:45:41) Wrapping up and thanks
(01:46:03) A late bit of Gamescom "news"
(01:48:18) Summer of Star Trek is ending soon!
(01:51:00) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(01:52:48) See ya!

This week we get extra retro with Gradius Origins, Operation Night Strikers, The Scouring, and (in a way) Mafia: The Old Country. Also: pressure builds inside Xbox against Microsoft's support of Israel's actions in Gaza, Switch 2 dev kits are still pretty scarce, more game cancellations and studio closures continue to be a fact of life, and more.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:08) Intro
(00:02:29) Revisiting your old school
(00:05:56) Fake Plastic Trees (or grass)
(00:11:11) Mafia: The Old Country  |  [PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Aug 08, 2025
(00:33:22) First Break
(00:33:26) Gradius Origins  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Aug 07, 2025
(00:47:57) Operation Night Strikers  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Nintendo Switch]  |  Aug 07, 2025
(00:53:19) The Scouring (Early Access) |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Aug 12, 2025
(01:06:52) Donkey Kong Bananza  |  [Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Jul 17, 2025
(01:11:18) Second Break
(01:11:22) Union members within Arkane call on MS to end military support
(01:18:58) Avalanche's Contraband development stopped
(01:27:54) Bithell Games announces major layoffs
(01:30:36) IGN Layoffs
(01:31:46) RedOctane Games is making a rhythm game?
(01:42:02) More details are appear regarding Switch 2 dev kits
(01:54:47) Emails
(02:01:13) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:04:49) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:07:25) See ya!

Alex dips back into the FGC tournament scene and then mixes it up with Ninja Gaiden Ragebound, Vinny takes the long EV trip and finishes DK Bananza, and Brad mixes it up arcade-style with Rhythm Storm and Earthion. Plus, the Switch is getting pricier in the US, BioShock 4 might be troubled, itch.io begins to address its recent content purge, and more.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:00:55) Initial thoughts on our first EV non-local trip
(00:12:12) EVO 2025 has happened!
(00:20:10) Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Jul 31, 2025
(00:26:42) Donkey Kong Bananza  |  [Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Jul 17, 2025
(00:35:29) First Break
(00:37:50) Abiotic Factor  |  [PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Jul 22, 2025
(00:43:42) Grounded 2 (Early Access) |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Jul 29, 2025
(00:45:39) Rhythm Storm  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Jul 25, 2025
(00:50:57) Brad still wants Geometry Wars to be honored properly
(00:55:35) RoboCop: Rogue City - Unfinished Business  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Mac]  |  Jul 17, 2025
(00:59:10) Earthion  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Arcade]  |  Jul 31, 2025
(01:12:21) Second Break
(01:12:25) Nintendo's Switch 2 News!
(01:15:53) Switch Price Increases in North America
(01:28:11) Itch.io updating some listings for NSFW labeled games
(01:34:13) Bioshock 4 gets some leadership changes
(01:39:52) Video Game History Foundation acquires Computer Entertainer
(01:46:55) Emails
(01:58:41) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:01:38) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:03:02) Nextlander Content Updates
(02:05:18) See ya!

Video games! We talk about some this week, like Ninja Gaiden Ragebound, Wheel World, Grounded 2, Wildgate, and more DK Bananza, plus news like the purging of adult games from Steam and itch.io, Sony's lawsuit against Tencent's Horizon clone, Atari's acquisition of Thunderful, and the momentous and long-overdue return of Mario Paint to a modern Nintendo platform.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:04:22) Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Jul 31, 2025
(00:17:19) Wheel World  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Jul 23, 2025
(00:25:55) First Break
(00:25:59) Grounded 2  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Jul 29, 2025
(00:39:10) Donkey Kong Bananza  |  [Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Jul 17, 2025
(00:45:45) Wildgate  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Jul 22, 2025
(00:53:49) Len's Island  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Jun 19, 2025
(00:55:10) Second Break
(00:55:15) What's going on with Steam, Itch, and Collective Shout?
(01:14:32) Sony and Tencent have a lawsuit on the Horizon
(01:21:13) Atari acquires Thunderful Group
(01:26:47) Metroid 4 Prime has gotten its rating, maybe we'll get a date soon!
(01:27:51) Mario Paint will finally be coming to a Switch platform near you!
(01:32:58) Emails
(01:51:33) Nextlander content updates
(01:54:17) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(01:55:55) Wrapping up and thanks
(01:58:58) See ya!

The gang's all here and going, uh, bananas for Donkey Kong Bananza, plus Shadow Labyrinth, The Drifter, and more Death Stranding and MindsEye. In the news, Splitgate 2 prepares to unrelease, From Software might have another new game in the works, and Hellraiser is finally getting that video game after nearly 40 years. All that, plus your emails!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:03:41) Brad's Field Market Research
(00:10:40) Donkey Kong Bananza  |  [Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Jul 17, 2025
(00:38:04) First Break
(00:38:09) Shadow Labyrinth  |  [Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Jul 18, 2025
(00:46:42) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(00:55:51) Kaizen: A Factory Story  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, Mac]  |  Jul 14, 2025
(00:57:02) MindsEye  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Jun 10, 2025
(00:58:54) The future releases and what August has in it
(00:59:34) The Drifter  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, Mac]  |  Jul 17, 2025
(01:01:47) Second Break
(01:01:51) News
(01:02:13) Splitgate 2 is 'Unlaunching'
(01:08:06) Directive 8020 is getting a delay amid layoffs
(01:10:15) FromSoftware might have another game cooking
(01:16:51) There's a new Hellraiser game?
(01:31:40) Emails
(01:53:18) Wrapping up and thanks
(01:54:50) Mysterious Benefactor Tier Shoutouts
(01:56:00) Nextlander content updates
(01:57:14) See ya!

Friend of the show Lex Luddy joins us to talk about how Death Stranding 2 holds up, the Megami Tensei Universe, and what exactly constitutes an Irish Pub. Vinny shares his closing thoughts on Assassin's Creed Shadows and Alex helps us unpack the week's news!



CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.


(00:00:10) Intro
(00:00:55) Welcome Lex Luddy!
(00:09:29) SPOILER Warning (Death Stranding 2 and Assassin's Creed Shadows)
(00:10:29) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach | [PlayStation 5] | Jun 26, 2025
(00:25:36) Assassin's Creed Shadows | [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S] | Mar 20, 2025
(00:50:58) First Break
(00:51:09) MindsEye | [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S] | Jun 10, 2025
(01:18:49) Kaizen: A Factory Story | [PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, Mac] | Jul 14, 2025
(01:23:05) The Megami Tensei Multiverse!
(01:38:37) Second Break
(01:38:41) News
(01:39:13) Subnautica 2 delay and lawsuits
(01:48:28) Romero Games loses publishing deal
(02:03:31) Laid off King staff reportedly replaced by AI tools
(02:18:00) Helldivers 2 gets an Xbox release date
(02:21:07) John Wick Hex is being delisted from sale
(02:24:05) CyberPunk Edgerunners is getting a new season
(02:25:50) Some Nintendo news
(02:27:06) Go check out Bakalar's new web comic
(02:29:04) Nextlander Content Updates
(02:33:00) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:35:12) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:37:26) See ya!

We're on break this week, so we bring you another hit from the Never Been a Better archives, when Abby Russell and Austin Walker joined us to talk about dream jobs, Generation Alpha, and much more!

CHAPTERS

(00:01:12) (Flawless) Intro
(00:02:29) Abby Russell is here!
(00:02:48) Austin Walker is here!
(00:03:34) Alex Navarro is here!
(00:04:43) To 2023 and getting together with friends
(00:06:00) Don't threaten me with a good time!
(00:07:13) The kids don't like using their i-statements
(00:10:50) Generation... Alpha?
(00:13:26) Kurt Loder was born in 1945!
(00:15:24) First Break
(00:17:55) The passing of the Queen
(00:26:33) The humans just don't like change
(00:27:46) Second Break
(00:27:58) The big basement reveal
(00:31:04) Sewage is a mess and has great job security
(00:32:31) Childhood dream jobs
(00:45:55) Gotta learn how to embezzle
(00:52:17) Aquatic nightmares
(00:54:42) Tom Cruise is chasing death
(00:59:56) Brazilian Butt Lift?
(01:04:33) Wrapping up
(01:05:24) See ya!

We unfortunately have to start this week's episode with the brutal cuts at Xbox, which saw studios shuttered and projects like Everwild and Perfect Dark straight up cancelled, but also touch on Donkey Kong Bananza and the next 3D Mario game, get way deeper into Death Stranding 2, try to make sense of the increasingly fantastic casting for the new Street Fighter movie, and more.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:18) Microsoft begins layoffs, cancellations, and closures
(00:39:26) SPOILERS - We'll be talking about Death Stranding 2 next, including early game story moments.
(00:40:37) First Break
(00:40:55) Assassin's Creed Shadows  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Mar 20, 2025
(00:42:37) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(01:36:08) Next week's Ramblecast and our favorite games
(01:37:12) Second Break
(01:37:17) News
(01:37:27) Updates to the Microsoft news
(01:41:35) Donkey Kong Bananza and the Super Mario Odyssey team
(01:47:40) The original Switch will get a price increase in Canada
(01:50:21) 2K Sports might be getting back to college basketball?
(01:54:31) The Street Fighter movie gets more casting news
(02:16:41) Emails
(02:27:35) Nextlander content updates
(02:30:05) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:30:40) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:33:10) We're heading out for vacation for a week
(02:33:45) See ya!

Death Stranding 2 is upon us and dominates the first hour of the show this week, Vinny finished Clair Obscur, Brad will (probably not) be playing more Hopshot, more layoffs at Xbox and Build a Rocket Boy, Sega leaks a bunch of sales figures, Nickelodeon is mashing up with Sonic, a great brawler debate ensues, and more.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:05:21) Brad's very localized power outage
(00:07:09) Death Stranding 2: On The Beach  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Jun 26, 2025
(00:12:54) There are going to be some original Death Stranding spoilers throughout here.
(01:01:15) First Break
(01:01:20) Clair Obscur: Expedition 33  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Apr 24, 2025
(01:08:23) Peak  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Jun 16, 2025
(01:12:57) Len's Island  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Jun 19, 2025
(01:15:06) Elden Ring: Nightreign  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  May 30, 2025
(01:21:44) Hopshot  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Mar 17, 2025
(01:27:28) Second Break
(01:27:33) Layoffs coming to Microsoft again
(01:34:07) MindsEye's studio will also be doing layoffs
(01:49:03) Sales numbers leak for certain Sega titles
(01:58:46) Sonic Racing and Nickelodeon crossover officially announced
(02:11:01) Drag x Drive gets a release date
(02:17:44) A new Patreon enters the ring
(02:22:54) Is Altered Beast a Beat 'em Up?
(02:27:22) Emails
(02:40:33) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:42:52) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:45:55) See ya!

It's the season of Fests (both Summer Game and Steam Next) and between the two, one metric tonne of video games is discussed on the show this week, including FBC Firebreak, Dying Light: The Beast, Dosa Divas, Snap & Grab, Directive 8020, Blighted, Ratatan, Ball x Pit, Dispatch, Baby Steps, and Peak. Also: the Marathon delay, official word from Microsoft about opening up the next Xbox, Beat Saber bails on PlayStation VR, and other stuff!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:02:44) Show rundown
(00:03:05) Possible to overthink buying a new car? Definitely.
(00:06:49) FBC: Firebreak  |  [PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Jun 17, 2025
(00:26:48) First Break
(00:26:52) Brad's Summer Game Fest Gaming Experiences
(00:27:10) Resident Evil: Requiem  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Feb 27, 2026
(00:28:42) Dying Light: The Beast  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Aug 22, 2025
(00:37:18) Directive 8020  |  [Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Oct 02, 2025
(00:46:41) Dosa Divas  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2026
(00:50:25) Snap & Grab  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5]  |  2026
(00:59:10) LEGO Party  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch]  |  2025
(01:01:40) Blighted  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2026
(01:05:56) Toem 2  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2026
(01:09:07) Wuchang: Fallen Feathers  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5]  |  Jul 24, 2025
(01:11:12) Ratatan (Early Access) |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Jul 25, 2025
(01:18:02) Some Steam Next Fest demos we liked
(01:18:13) Ball x Pit  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  2025
(01:25:53) Dispatch  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2025
(01:30:33) Baby Steps  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Sep 08, 2025
(01:33:41) Peak  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Jun 16, 2025
(01:35:45) Dead as Disco  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(01:37:31) Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Jul 31, 2025
(01:38:37) Second Break
(01:38:42) Vinny with some Breaking News!
(01:40:20) News
(01:40:37) Marathon is getting a delay
(01:48:29) Xbox's reveals some news about its next hardware plans
(02:01:14) Beat Saber ending PS VR2 support and updates
(02:07:15) Borderlands 4 will be $70
(02:13:27) Nexus Mods has been sold
(02:17:23) Emails
(02:29:01) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:32:17) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:35:06) Nextlander content updates
(02:37:04) See ya!

Between the Switch 2's arrival, hours of Summer Game Fest streams, and Brad's return from checking out many games (and one above-it-all cat) in Los Angeles, a single podcast episode can barely contain all this discussion, but we do our best to cram in chat about Mario Kart World, Resident Evil: Requiem, Lumines Arise, an impromptu ranking of Nintendo console launches, and a bunch of other stuff.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:07) Our post Switch 2 Launch world!
(00:03:55) Something beautiful actually happened in LA!
(00:07:22) Let's just into the Switch 2 and all its glory
(00:27:55) Mario Kart World  |  [Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Jun 05, 2025
(00:40:34) Ranking of Nintendo Launches
(00:55:36) First Break
(00:57:39) Brad's hands-on Summer Game Fest games!
(00:58:34) Lumines: Arise  |  [PlayStation 5, PlayStation VR2, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Q4 2025
(01:09:50) Pragmata  |  [PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  2026
(01:17:00) Onimusha: Way of the Sword  |  [PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2026
(01:23:05) Resident Evil: Requiem  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Feb 27, 2026
(01:31:59) Shinobi: Art of Vengeance  |  [Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Aug 29, 2025
(01:41:14) Second Break
(01:41:19) The Various Not-E3 Streams
(01:41:52) Sony State of Play
(01:42:59) Romeo is a Dead Man  |  [PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  2026
(01:44:00) Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2026
(01:45:11) Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles  |  [Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5]  |  Sep 30, 2025
(01:46:52) Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2025
(01:58:14) Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  2026
(02:02:40) 007: First Light  |  [Nintendo Switch 2, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5]  |  2026
(02:05:09) Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow  |  [SteamVR, PlayStation VR2, Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest 3]  |  2025
(02:06:12) Summer Game Fest Showcase
(02:06:31) Felt That: Boxing  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(02:09:32) ARC Raiders  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Oct 30, 2025
(02:10:45) LEGO Voyagers  |  [PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows), Nintendo Switch]  |  TBD
(02:11:27) Ill  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5]  |  TBD
(02:12:02) Wu-Tang: Rise of the Deceiver  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(02:14:34) End of Abyss  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5]  |  2026
(02:15:38) Stranger Than Heaven
(02:18:34) Infinitesimals  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2026
(02:19:16) Wildgate  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Jul 24, 2025
(02:20:25) Xbox Games Showcase
(02:20:46) Keeper  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Oct 17, 2025
(02:22:33) The Outer Worlds 2  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Oct 29, 2025
(02:23:01) Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2026
(02:23:41) Super Meat Boy 3D  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Q1 2026
(02:25:42) Clockwork Revolution  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  TBD
(02:27:13) Grounded 2 (Early Access) |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Jul 29, 2025
(02:27:33) There Are No Ghosts at the Grand  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  2026
(02:28:59) Persona 4 Revival  |  [PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(02:29:37) At Fate's End  |  [Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2026
(02:29:53) High on Life 2  |  [Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Q1 2026
(02:31:35) Invincible Vs.  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5]  |  2026
(02:32:25) Call of Duty: Black Ops 7  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  TBD
(02:37:52) Day of the Devs
(02:37:59) Big Walk  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2026
(02:39:13) Please, Watch the Artwork  |  [Linux, Nintendo Switch, Android, Mac, iOS, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(02:40:27) Almost a drama-free experience on the stages... almost
(02:41:14) Snap & Grab  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5]  |  2026
(02:43:22) Ratatan  |  [Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4]  |  2025
(02:45:41) Ball x Pit  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  2025
(02:46:47) Even more showcases are popping up!
(02:49:32) Very brief updates on games we continue to play
(02:50:14) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:52:22) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:54:06) NXL is made possible from supporters like you!
(02:55:29) See ya!

Based on feedback from last week this might just be a car podcast now, but we also discuss the Switch 2 launch news that's starting to trickle out, Brad's deep dive into Elden Ring Nightreign, details on EA's cancelled Black Panther game, new footage from The Witcher 4, some questionably timed State of Play predictions, and more.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:16) The Switch 2 is out in the wild and on the internet
(00:06:01) Yes, for the Wii Wii
(00:07:03) If you hear something, say something
(00:08:18) Dogs are gonna chase squirrels if you let them!
(00:10:45) Elden Ring: Nightreign  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  May 30, 2025
(00:40:57) First Break
(00:43:42) Date Everything!  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Jun 17, 2025
(00:51:44) Clair Obscur: Expedition 33  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Apr 24, 2025
(00:59:22) Hollow Knight  |  [Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Feb 24, 2017
(01:02:52) Second Break
(01:02:57) News
(01:03:37) The Switch 2 is here
(01:09:01) Summer Game Fest and Not-E3 happenings
(01:12:29) IO's new James Bond game has a title
(01:18:03) The Witcher 4 and Unreal Engine 5
(01:26:53) More reporting on EA canceling its Black Panther game
(01:33:34) Emails OR more a summary of the car emails we have received
(01:51:52) Nextlander content updates
(01:54:37) Wrapping up and thanks
(01:58:56) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:02:02) Our Switch 2 and Summer Game Fest plans
(02:04:33) See ya!

It's time to talk into microphones about video games (and other things) once again, with chat this week about To a T, TMNT Tactical Takedown, Siegecaster, the big Fortnite buy, the cancellation of Battle Aces and EA's Black Panther, USB mouse support on the Switch 2, Alex Garland's Elden Ring, the most Peter Molyneux quote ever, Vinny's car hunt, and more.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:00:59) Probably gonna need a new car in the near-ish future
(00:17:33) Is Alex also ready for a car refresh?
(00:25:31) The video games!
(00:25:35) To a T  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  May 28, 2025
(00:39:08) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  May 22, 2025
(00:47:49) First Break
(00:49:19) Siegecaster  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  May 06, 2025
(00:58:16) Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun ? Words of Vengeance  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  May 22, 2025
(01:01:19) Sunderfolk  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch]  |  Apr 23, 2025
(01:05:05) Fortnite: Chapter 6 - Mini Season 1: Galactic Battle  |  [iOS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows), Android]  |  May 02, 2025
(01:11:38) Helldivers 2: Heart of Democracy  |  [PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  May 20, 2025
(01:16:44) Second Break
(01:16:48) Maybe Persona 4 is getting a remake? Maybe?
(01:17:47) EA cancels Black Panther and closes studio
(01:31:15) Battle Aces devs announce it is done
(01:36:22) Randy Pitchford and the price of video games
(01:47:07) Mario Kart World could have been a Switch 1 game
(01:51:31) The Switch 2 will support a USB mouse
(01:55:00) How about an Elden Ring movie?
(01:59:59) Peter Molyneux speaks about Milo
(02:08:18) Emails
(02:17:00) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:20:23) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:21:51) Nextlander content updates
(02:25:14) See ya!

TWO HUNDRED EPISODES? We don't believe it either, but believe this: We cover everything from Sunderfolk to Deliver at All Costs, Fortnite's AI Darth Vader mess, plagiarism in Marathon, Switch 2 launch coverage, the Summer Game Fest vibe, and plenty more on this week's show.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:02:02) How do we make jury duty easier and better?
(00:07:25) Clair Obscur: Expedition 33  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Apr 24, 2025
(00:21:31) Hollow Knight  |  [Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Feb 24, 2017
(00:24:05) Sunderfolk  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch]  |  Apr 23, 2025
(00:31:47) First Break
(00:31:51) Deliver At All Costs  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  May 22, 2025
(00:41:53) Mars Attracts (Early Access) |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2025
(00:43:47) Assassin's Creed Shadows  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Mar 20, 2025
(00:46:08) Revenge of the Savage Planet  |  [Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  May 08, 2025
(00:47:55) Fortnite: Chapter 6 - Mini Season 1: Galactic Battle  |  [iOS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows), Android]  |  May 02, 2025
(00:50:52) Darth Vader wants to talk to you about your Fortnite performance
(01:15:22) Doom: The Dark Ages  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  May 15, 2025
(01:16:51) Second Break
(01:16:56) Unlicensed artwork found in Marathon
(01:27:53) Switch 2 availability updates and more
(01:41:15) Jade Raymond has left PlayStation's Haven Studios
(01:46:34) SNK CEO steps down
(01:51:15) Microsoft issues a statement regarding its contracts with Israel
(01:54:51) Brian Eno also issues a statement
(01:59:39) What's the 'vibe' going into Summer Game Fest?
(02:04:05) Emails
(02:14:25) Nextlander Content Updates
(02:16:18) Go check out The Watchcast
(02:17:42) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:19:12) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:22:16) See ya!

This week: There's a new Doom game out and court has adjourned long enough for Brad to deliver a verdict on it, Vinny clicks around in Loco Motive, we debate the coming of the FRPG era, the Switch 2 is getting some Very Important Features, Walton Goggins has a business he'd like you to know about, and a bunch more.

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:03:40) Nothing stops the Giant Bomb?
(00:20:24) Doom: The Dark Ages  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  May 15, 2025
(00:44:05) First Break
(00:44:09) This here pile of games, it is large
(00:44:47) Clair Obscur: Expedition 33  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Apr 24, 2025
(00:49:16) Hollow Knight  |  [Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Feb 24, 2017
(00:50:47) Revenge of the Savage Planet  |  [Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  May 08, 2025
(00:54:28) Loco Motive  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Nov 21, 2024
(00:57:35) What is a JRPG? What is Anime? What is anything, really?
(01:03:42) Order of operations for completing games
(01:04:19) Alex's remaining stack of games
(01:04:30) Assassin's Creed Shadows  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Mar 20, 2025
(01:15:27) Some future games on the horizon
(01:18:32) Second Break
(01:18:37) News
(01:19:22) The Switch 2 is still coming and there are updates!
(01:33:01) The Top Games on the PS5
(01:38:55) Netflix removing Bandersnatch
(01:45:41) Emails
(02:09:01) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:11:40) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:13:18) What's up with Walton Goggins?
(02:17:04) Nextlander content updates
(02:17:44) See ya!This week: There's a new Doom game out and court has adjourned long enough for Brad to deliver a verdict on it, Vinny clicks around in Loco Motive, we debate the coming of the FRPG era, the Switch 2 is getting some Very Important Features, Walton Goggins has a business he'd like you to know about, and a bunch more.

We attempt to grapple with the job losses at Polygon and Giant Bomb (and dig into some of our own time at GB) this week, before diving into the ARC Raiders tech test, the end of Lost Records, Vinny's deepening love of Hollow Knight, the increasing absurdity of Skin Deep, the GTA 6 delay and new trailer, increasing Xbox prices, Gears on PlayStation, and some housekeeping notes for the next few weeks of Nextlander (yes, Brad's going pro in Fortnite).

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:02:07) Well, Brad got picked for jury duty. Officially!
(00:07:15) The Giant Bomb and Polygon news
(00:07:57) Polygon being sold and the massive staff cuts.
(00:14:36) What is and was Giant Bomb and its survival over the years.
(01:22:26) First Break
(01:25:02) The video games
(01:25:57) ARC Raiders  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2025
(01:46:45) Revenge of the Savage Planet  |  [Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  May 08, 2025
(01:55:05) Skin Deep  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Apr 30, 2025
(01:59:15) Clair Obscur: Expedition 33  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Apr 24, 2025
(02:00:05) Hollow Knight  |  [Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Feb 24, 2017
(02:05:50) Lost Records: Bloom & Rage  |  [Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Feb 18, 2025
(02:11:30) Fortnite: Chapter 6 - Season 3: Galactic Battle  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  May 02, 2025
(02:25:05) Second Break
(02:25:09) Grand Theft Auto VI has been delayed
(02:36:13) The Xbox is about to get way more expensive
(02:47:16) Gears of War: Reloaded is coming and to a PS5 at that!
(02:51:11) Remember that Apple and Epic lawsuit?
(02:56:45) Nextlander content updates
(03:00:00) Wrapping up and thanks
(03:00:20) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(03:02:17) Speeding along justice for the podcast?! Never.
(03:03:24) See ya!

We're awash in games this week with Skin Deep, Clair Obscur, the Marathon alpha, and a bunch of other stuff we're continuing to play. In the news, the cancelled Titanfall extraction shooter and more hardware makers like 8BitDo suspending shipments into the United States. Then an emails section flush with the straight scoop on subjects like being a Green Bay Packers shareholder, doing publicity for Banksy, the fate of the Antarctic N64, and more. That's a lot of podcast!

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:03) There are a lot of video games out there...
(00:03:35) Skin Deep  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Apr 30, 2025
(00:24:48) First Break
(00:24:52) Marathon  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Sep 23, 2025
(00:37:25) Clair Obscur: Expedition 33  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Apr 24, 2025
(00:47:43) The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered  |  [PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Apr 22, 2025
(01:03:04) Hollow Knight  |  [Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Feb 24, 2017
(01:08:59) Bionic Bay  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Apr 17, 2025
(01:09:14) Blue Prince  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Apr 10, 2025
(01:14:24) Creepy Redneck Dinosaur Mansion 3  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Apr 22, 2025\
(01:16:41) Second Break
(01:17:45) The Switch 2 came and went, but when will it come again?
(01:29:13) Companies begin messaging consumers around U.S. tariffs
(01:45:26) EA makes big job cuts and cancels games
(02:01:11) Emails
(02:19:23) Nextlander content updates
(02:21:31) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:23:22) Thanks and wrapping up
(02:26:20) Quick Schedule Change!
(02:27:23) See ya!

We played a slew of games this week like Tempest Rising, Creepy Redneck Dinosaur Mansion 3, Bionic Bay, and more Blue Prince and Battle Aces, plus: the Switch 2 preorder plan of attack, Ghost of Yotei gets a date, Michael Bay's OutRun is going to be the biggest movie of the world, the high-risk world of NFL draft betting, and more.

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:08) Is there a Draft in here?!
(00:06:40) Let me tell you... about my dirt clumps
(00:08:05) Is that thing Turbocharged? Only on the floor model.
(00:10:18) Are there any NOT billionaire owners for sports teams?
(00:14:15) Blue Prince  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Apr 10, 2025
(00:23:06) [SPOILERS] Let's REALLY talk about Blue Prince!
(00:52:11) First Break
(00:52:16) Tempest Rising  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Apr 17, 2025
(01:01:42) Battle Aces  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(01:12:40) Bionic Bay  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Apr 17, 2025
(01:17:34) Creepy Redneck Dinosaur Mansion 3  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Apr 22, 2025
(01:29:24) Second Break
(01:29:28) Switch 2 Preorders are happening or happened?
(01:44:57) Ghost of Yotei gets a release date!
(01:52:47) Devolver Digital shares its future strategy
(02:01:49) Japan wants to archive its gaming history
(02:06:27) Out Run is getting a movie?
(02:13:56) There are a lot of video game movies in some state or another...
(02:23:38) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:26:46) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:29:37) See ya!

This week, Blue Prince has snared a couple of us (sort of), another couple of us can't seem to stop playing AC Shadows, and... Gradius III makes a surprise appearance? In the news, the BDS Xbox boycott, the Marathon reveal, Oblivion Remastered media leaks, the PS5 is getting more expensive. Plus a New Zealand slang primer, whipping out your 3DS at the metal show, and more!

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:00) Why is Brad playing Gradius III
(00:04:55) Alex's latest concert experience
(00:07:44) Best way to work that core
(00:12:21) The last thing you'd think would be at this concert...
(00:15:46) Blue Prince  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Apr 10, 2025
(00:36:38) First Break
(00:36:46) Assassin's Creed Shadows  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Mar 20, 2025
(01:05:58) Various other gaming pleasures
(01:08:14) Second Break
(01:08:19) Microsoft is added to the BDS Primary Boycott list
(01:23:50) Bungie's Marathon gets a big reveal
(01:31:25) NOTE: We lost one of the audio tracks here so the quality difference is from using our backup!
(01:36:51) Oblivion Remaster info has leaked
(01:39:39) Get ready for more Star Wars with Zero Company
(01:42:24) The PlayStation 5 is about to get more expensive
(01:47:06) Emails
(01:59:28) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:02:22) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:03:31) It's not easy out there, but we appreciate and take comfort in this community
(02:04:38) See ya!

While we're out this week, we bring you another blast from the Never Been a Better past, all the way back in December 2022, when Abby Russell and Jeff Bakalar joined us to share tales of holiday mishaps, immortal pets, and much more!

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:01:10) Intro
(00:02:24) The Eagle Rare has landed
(00:03:26) Bakalar has been on some adventures
(00:14:55) Bakalar's fancy dishes
(00:16:42) The kids are getting older and online
(00:20:39) Is there any pinball regret?
(00:22:39) Some hot insider family gossip
(00:26:23) Abby, how was the Thanksgiving?
(00:27:16) Waxing on about candles and scents
(00:29:53) Alex discovers a possible hockey goon amongst his family
(00:33:56) The joys and innuendos of driving
(00:39:11) Thanksgiving with the Caravellas
(00:41:07) Avoiding the minefield of conversation at Thanksgiving...
(00:42:18) ...but stepping in it at Halloween
(00:47:33) Any dressing up for Halloween this year?
(00:49:33) Favorite candy that isn't a peanut butter cup
(00:51:34) Cheese crimes
(00:54:46) Time for a pet check
(01:03:45) Well, we've arrived at the Hemipenis
(01:08:38) One more pet thing...
(01:12:39) Wrapping up
(01:15:16) See ya!

It happened: They took the wraps off the Switch 2 (for real this time). Will Smith joins us to break down the price, hardware specs and features, backwards compatibility, and launch-ish games like Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, and the most important launch title of all: the Switch 2 Welcome Tour.

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:09) Intro
(00:01:10) Switch 2 news is coming in hot!
(00:02:56) What we know for sure... we think
(00:37:03) First Break
(00:37:07) More Switch 2 details and more questions
(01:08:25) Some First Party games
(01:08:41) Mario Kart World  |  [Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Jun 05, 2025
(01:20:04) *Future note during the edit. Seeing some folks now reporting that it may be $90 for physical
(01:22:37) Donkey Kong: Bananza  |  [Nintendo Switch 2]  |  Jul 17, 2025
(01:29:30) The Third Party games
(01:34:33) The Duskbloods  |  [Nintendo Switch 2]  |  2026
(01:46:41) What about that Japan only Switch 2?
(02:06:49) Second Break
(02:07:37) Atomfall  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5]  |  Mar 27, 2025
(02:12:10) Assassin's Creed Shadows  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Mar 20, 2025
(02:30:35) Emails
(02:49:05) Wrapping up and content updates
(02:56:09) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:57:03) See ya!

We've got one week left before the big Switch 2 reveal, so hop in the ding-dong hole for one last round of rumors and speculation, plus plenty of other chatter about Atomfall, more AC: Shadows and 33 Immortals, Revenge of the Savage Planet, Josef Fares' Willy Wonka moment, a good week for games media, the landmark release of Big Rigs on Steam, and our exhaustive analysis of Apple Music's idea of "grunge."

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:00:32) Folks, what are we doing here?
(00:03:32) Thank goodness for video games
(00:05:04) It's Career Day time. Be interesting.
(00:09:52) Assassin's Creed Shadows  |  [iOS, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Mar 20, 2025
(00:38:55) First Break
(00:39:01) 33 Immortals (Early Access) |  [Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Mar 18, 2025
(00:45:36) Atomfall  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5]  |  Mar 27, 2025
(00:53:07) Split Fiction  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Mar 06, 2025
(00:59:36) Alex Hill: Whispers at White Oak Inn  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Mar 07, 2025
(01:00:37) Revenge of the Savage Planet  |  [Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  May 08, 2025
(01:06:37) Second Break
(01:06:42) The last of the Switch 2 rumors
(01:18:43) Game Informer is back!
(01:23:28) The Game Business' new publication
(01:26:45) Assassins Creed Shadows sold really well
(01:32:02) Why is Big Rigs coming to Steam?
(01:40:27) Emails
(01:53:41) Wrapping up and thanks
(01:55:07) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(01:56:25) Nextlander Content Updates
(01:58:32) See ya!

We talk for like an hour about Assassin's Creed Shadows this week, plus 33 Immortals, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (big week for 33 around here), Keita Takahashi's To a T, a $500 Switch 2, Xbox's gaming Copilot AI, the strange possibilities of an Oblivion remake, a little about GDC, and more.

Here's the essay about Oblivion's Radiant AI we talked about a bit: https://medium.com/@gatherer286/lost-features-a-critical-essay-on-tes-iv-oblivions-radiant-ai-a0150144ddef

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:27) What's going on with YouTube and our videos?
(00:09:25) Assassin's Creed Shadows  |  [iOS, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Mar 20, 2025
(00:10:37) [Possible Minor Spoilers] There are some story elements in our talk but they are very early and broad.
(00:57:19) First Break
(00:57:24) 33 Immortals (Early Access) |  [Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Mar 18, 2025
(01:14:38) Clair Obscur: Expedition 33  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Apr 24, 2025
(01:22:42) To a T  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  May 28, 2025
(01:32:37) Second Break
(01:33:09) Switch 2 news is coming soon but for now let's speculate!
(01:44:30) Microsoft wants to use AI to help you with games
(02:00:53) Oblivion comes for us all and maybe in the form of UE5
(02:10:23) Emails
(02:32:30) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:35:55) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:38:20) See ya!

There might be an Xbox handheld launching this year (?!), plus the actual next Xbox in 2027, and we get together to talk all about that, along with the fairly unhinged new Death Stranding 2 trailer, WWE 2K25, Deliver at All Costs, returning to PUBG in 2025, top-tier comedy sketches, lighting your sardines on fire, and a bunch of other stuff.

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:03:05) To move or not to move, that is the question
(00:04:27) Shoes on or off in the house?
(00:07:30) Brad's 100x Gravity Training
(00:09:08) WWE 2K25  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One]  |  Mar 14, 2025
(00:23:01) Lost Records: Bloom & Rage  |  [Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Feb 18, 2025
(00:30:12) The Roottrees Are Dead  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux]  |  Jan 15, 2025
(00:31:33) First Break
(00:33:57) Avowed  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Feb 18, 2025
(00:46:36) Split Fiction  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Mar 06, 2025
(00:49:10) PUBG: Battlegrounds  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Dec 20, 2017
(00:56:53) Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One]  |  Feb 21, 2025
(00:59:52) Deliver At All Costs  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  TBD
(01:04:46) Second Break
(01:04:50) The News (Cycle)
(01:06:09) Xbox's upcoming console and handheld plans?
(01:26:46) Forza Horizon 5's mandatory logins?
(01:32:17) Death Stranding 2's latest info and our dismal recap of the first
(01:48:13) Lego wants to bring dev in-house
(01:53:57) Chrono Trigger has a 30 year anniversary going on
(01:58:58) Emails
(02:20:27) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:22:52) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:25:25) Nextlander Content Updates
(02:26:57) See ya!

While we spend a good part of this week's show grappling with the resurrection of the Acclaim name, we also find time to discuss Split Fiction, Knights in Tight Spaces, Gears of War on PS5, buying a (cheap) record player, the whereabouts of Bam Margera, a big week for video game source code, and the Sonic Unleashed PC port with big implications for Xbox 360 game preservation.

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:00:42) The voice of Space Ghost has passed away
(00:07:10) Focus Groups for toys and cartoons
(00:10:18) Let's all take the music back!
(00:17:30) That's it, records or bust
(00:25:53) Split Fiction  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Mar 06, 2025
(00:41:55) First Break
(00:41:59) Knights in Tight Spaces  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Mar 04, 2025
(00:52:49) Lost Records: Bloom & Rage  |  [Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  Feb 18, 2025
(00:58:50) Void Crew  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Nov 25, 2024
(01:04:17) Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One]  |  Feb 21, 2025
(01:10:48) Avowed  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Feb 18, 2025
(01:13:21) Second Break
(01:13:26) News
(01:13:33) More about Monolith and their closing
(01:21:15) PlayStation VR2 gets a price drop
(01:26:05) Gears of War on a PlayStation?!
(01:30:42) Tony Hawk is back!
(01:38:19) Acclaim is also... back?!
(01:47:40) Tanya released the Command and Conquer source code!
(01:53:17) Sonic Unleashed gets an unofficial PC port
(02:03:44) Emails
(02:14:10) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:15:24) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:17:30) Nextlander Content Updates
(02:18:55) See ya!

This week we attempt to get back to the positive end of the yo-yo cycle by playing Monster Hunter Wilds, LAD: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, more Avowed, and some Steam Next Fest demos, plus the shocking closure of Monolith, some new Fable footage, Microsoft's games AI model, and your emails!

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:02:41) Putting reality on pause for a few hours
(00:13:52) What's the last stop before dry toast?
(00:16:37) Monster Hunter Wilds  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Feb 28, 2025
(00:42:18) Consoles or PC, the eternal struggle
(00:48:05) First Break
(00:48:10) Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Feb 21, 2025
(01:00:26) Avowed  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Feb 18, 2025
(01:17:39) Void Crew  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Nov 25, 2024
(01:20:57) Lost Records: Bloom & Rage  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Feb 18, 2025
(01:23:41) Steam Next Fest
(01:24:50) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  2025
(01:31:41) Fellowship | TBD
(01:37:18) Second Break
(01:37:23) News
(01:37:45) Warner Bros. closes Monolith
(01:56:19) Fable delayed to 2026
(02:04:22) Microsoft wants to use AI in game "preservation"
(02:16:58) Bloober Team and Konami are back at!
(02:22:22) Email
(02:33:06) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:38:10) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:40:22) Nextlander Content Updates
(02:41:18) See ya!

This week we're wowed by Avowed (sorry), and also playing Void Crew, Keep Driving, and Lost Records: Bloom & Rage. In the news, shocking Marvel Rivals layoffs, a State of Play impressions roundup, Grand Theft Auto Online's user-generated future, and Everwild still exists. Also there might be an asteroid on the way? Tune in and hear all about it!

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:01:26) Why does Windows 11 hate computers?!
(00:07:44) Asteroid tracking?
(00:10:16) Avowed  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S]  |  Feb 18, 2025
(00:41:21) First Break
(00:43:48) Lost Records: Bloom & Rage  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Feb 18, 2025
(00:55:38) Keep Driving  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Feb 06, 2025
(01:03:26) Void Crew  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Nov 25, 2024
(01:17:35) Sid Meier's Civilization VII  |  [Mac, Linux, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Feb 11, 2025
(01:19:24) Second Break
(01:19:29) NetEase lays off NA Marvel Rivals team
(01:32:05) Sony's recent State of Play
(01:33:24) Saros  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  2026
(01:36:45) MindsEye  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  2025
(01:41:00) Directive 8020  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Oct 02, 2025
(01:44:55) Shinobi: Art of Vengeance  |  [Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Aug 29, 2025
(01:49:06) Days Gone Remastered  |  [PlayStation 5]  |  Apr 25, 2025
(01:49:37) WWE 2K25  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One]  |  Mar 14, 2025
(01:51:06) Darwin's Paradox  |  [Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5]  |  2025
(01:51:18) The Midnight Walk  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, PlayStation VR2]  |  May 08, 2025
(01:51:28) Dreams of Another  |  [PlayStation 5, PlayStation VR2]  |  2025
(01:53:02) Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S]  |  Aug 28, 2025
(01:53:13) Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds  |  [PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  TBD
(01:57:09) What will the next GTA Online be?
(02:03:50) Some tidbits about the future of Xbox
(02:10:17) Art Director of Half-Life 2 passes away
(02:12:49) Email
(02:16:12) Nextlander content updates
(02:20:35) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(02:21:39) Wrapping up
(02:23:54) See ya!

Brad and Vinny dig holes this week and have a great time doing it, Alex dons his Civilization hat once again, and we all consider this weekend's mysterious PSN outage, the tumultuous development of Monolith's Wonder Woman, yet another Arkham game from Rocksteady, an upside-down Switch 2, the release date of Grand Theft Auto 7, and some rapid-fire State of Play coverage.

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CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:27) Alex opens the door to Hanna-Barbara talk
(00:08:44) Leaf blowers, in the snow, at 6AM!
(00:14:53) Sid Meier's Civilization VII  |  [Mac, Linux, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Feb 11, 2025
(00:46:24) First Break
(00:48:41) A Game About Digging A Hole  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Feb 07, 2025
(01:03:19) PowerWash Simulator  |  [Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Jul 14, 2022
(01:06:22) Rift of the NecroDancer  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Feb 05, 2025
(01:07:41) Crypt of the NecroDancer  |  [PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, Mac]  |  Apr 23, 2015
(01:10:35) Any Avowed excitement out there?
(01:13:20) Second Break
(01:13:24) PSN goes out and Sony has little to say
(01:22:08) State of Play is happening soon!
(01:28:01) What is going on with Warner and Wonder Woman?
(01:40:53) ...and they are making a Batman game?
(01:50:10) Steam adds information about updates during Early Access
(01:57:52) Switch 2 might be able to invert?
(02:03:13) Oh, and don't forget about GTA!
(02:05:01) Emails
(02:17:41) BREAKING Live Sony State of Play reacts
(02:22:47) ...and back to another email!
(02:25:07) Wrapping up and thanks
(02:28:32) Nextlander content updates
(02:30:31) See ya!

Before February really gets going, we check in with some new indies this week like While Waiting and Rift of the Necrodancer, catch up on news about downsizing at BioWare and Iron Galaxy, Forza Horizon 5 on PS5, the Sleeping Dogs movie, and the long lost Nintendo PlayStation game, learn some interesting facts about industrial paper cutters, and more.

Advertise on The Nextlander Podcast at Audioboom, or support us on Patreon!

CHAPTERS

(00:00:00) NOTE: Some timecodes may be inaccurate for versions other than the ad-free Patreon version due to dynamic ad insertions. Please use caution if skipping around to avoid spoilers. Thanks for listening.
(00:00:10) Intro
(00:05:34) YouTube ads seem to be picking up
(00:08:41) So, is TikTok just back? Someone explain TikTok to Vinny.
(00:14:40) While Waiting  |  [Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Nintendo Switch]  |  Feb 05, 2025
(00:23:43) First Break
(00:23:48) Rift of the NecroDancer  |  [Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows)]  |  Feb 05, 2025
(00:43:54) Second Break
(00:43:59) The News
(00:44:19) Bioware relocates staff permanently?
(01:00:24) Iron Galaxy layoffs
(01:05:22) Forza Horizon 5 coming to the PS5
(01:11:18) Multiversus officially shutting down
(01:20:53) Sleeping Dogs has awoken?
(01:26:28) Drones, why is it always drones?
(01:33:54) Remember when Sony was working with Nintendo?
(01:40:22) Emails
(01:48:01) Wrapping up and thanks
(01:49:03) Mysterious Benefactor Shoutouts
(01:51:08) NXL content updates
(01:53:12) See ya!