Arcade Couch

Explosion Network
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Arcade Couch — News, reviews & spicy takes on the week in games. Arcade Couch is the Explosion Network’s premiere video games podcast featuring discussions on the latest games, tech, industry news and more. Available every Monday at 6 AM AEST/AEDT.

  1. 2d ago

    Kingdom Hearts Anime Announced, Kingdom Hearts 4 Updates & Star Wars Zero Company Preview | Arcade Couch

    Kingdom Hearts 4 is coming a lot sooner than we thought it would, and there's an anime coming as well. Plus, Dylan dives into his thoughts on Star Wars Zero Company. SHOW DOT POINTS The Kingdom Hearts anime is expected to be vital for the lore. Star Wars Eclipse has faced significant development issues. The hosts express scepticism about the release of Star Wars Eclipse. Kingdom Hearts 4 is set to include Pixar's Coco as a world. The gameplay of Kingdom Hearts 4 looks visually stunning and engaging. The hosts discuss the potential for new Disney worlds in Kingdom Hearts 4. Coco is seen as a fitting addition to the Kingdom Hearts universe. The conversation reflects on the convoluted nature of Kingdom Hearts lore. The hosts debate whether the anime will cater to new fans or existing ones. There is excitement about the future of the Kingdom Hearts franchise. Sora's journey in Kingdom Hearts could be more engaging if separated from his companions. Ghost of Tsushima is expanding with new content, including a narrative expansion and survival mode. PlayStation's release strategy seems focused on filling gaps in its lineup. Community reactions to the Wolverine game highlight concerns about its gameplay mechanics. EB Games is entering the trading card market, but the value proposition for players is questionable. Netflix's gaming strategy is facing challenges, leading to the closure of Night School Studio. The Australian Classification Board's decision to ban Halloween: The Game raises questions about censorship. The gaming community often reacts strongly to changes in beloved franchises. There are opportunities for players to capitalise on EB Games' trading card initiative. The conversation reflects ongoing frustrations with the gaming industry's regulatory landscape. The need for humour in gaming discussions. Pro Jank Footy offers chaotic fun with power-ups. Gameplay mechanics can significantly affect player experience. Star Wars XCOM combines tactical gameplay with narrative depth. Character dynamics play a crucial role in storytelling. Anticipation for upcoming games can create excitement. Local co-op gaming enhances the fun factor. Game mechanics should allow for player customisation. The balance of challenge and accessibility is important in games. Unique humour can set a game apart from others. YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant RESOURCES Ghost Of Yotei Is Getting A Story Expansion, New Roguelike Mode And A Complete Edition EB Games Is Now Officially Buying Single Trading Cards At More Stores With A Cool New Card Reader Netflix Has Shut Down Oxenfree Developer Night School Studio Here's Even More Info About Why Halloween The Game Was Banned And Exactly When It Happened Star Wars Zero Company Preview – Tactical Combat With A Big Star Wars Story - Explosion Network Wild Blue Skies Review - Explosion Network Agent 64: Spies Never Die Review - Explosion Network CREDITS 🎵 Music: Dylan Blight 🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay 🎨 Artwork: Explosion Network 📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM 👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

  2. Aug 9

    Will GTA VI Have a Physical Release? + Australia’s New R18+ Gaming Rules | Arcade Couch

    We discuss the news that GTA 6 will be getting a deep dive on Netflix, age verification being required on consoles, and Dylan discusses two games he's been playing: Dosa Divas and Yoshi & The Mysterious Book. SHOW DOT POINTS There were two showcases this week, neither of which we'll be talking about. Marvel Token Fighting Soul suffers from widespread PC issues at launch. Aussies will now have to age-verify to play R18 games on Xbox. This age verification is a response to Australian regulations. GTA VI gameplay reveal is coming to Netflix at the end of the month. Netflix is leaning into event moments to attract viewers. The gaming community is fickle and may refund games due to issues. Age verification aims to protect children from inappropriate content. The reveal of GTA VI is highly anticipated and could draw new subscribers to Netflix. Streaming platforms are changing how game reveals are conducted. Take-Two's CEO emphasises the shift to digital media. GTA VI's success is anticipated based on pre-launch metrics. The debate between digital and physical media continues to evolve. Physical editions may still have a place for collectors. Pricing strategies in gaming are influenced by digital sales. Yoshi's new game targets a younger audience with its design. Dosa Divas explores themes of family and corporate influence. The art style of Yoshi's game is less distinct than previous titles. Game mechanics in Dosa Divas include turn-based combat and cooking. The hosts express excitement for the future of gaming despite challenges. YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley RESOURCES Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls suffers from widespread PC issues at launch | Eurogamer.net Aussies Will Now Have To Age Verify To Play R18+ Games On Xbox Series X/PC An Extended Look At Grand Theft Auto 6 Gameplay Is Coming To Netflix And Here's All The Aussie Times Take-Two's CEO Won't Rule Out Grand Theft Auto 6 On Disc But Says Discs Don't Make Sense Anymore CREDITS 🎵 Music: Dylan Blight 🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay 🎨 Artwork: Explosion Network 📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM 👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

  3. Aug 4

    Big Walk Review, Tears of Metal Impressions & Final Fantasy XIV Evercold | Arcade Couch

    Dylan, Ashley, and Ciaran have been playing Big Walk together and discussing getting lost, solving puzzles, and sharing tips for the adventure. They also talk about Tears of Metal, the announcement of Final Fantasy XIV Evercold, and Halo now being on PS5. SHOW DOT POINTS The Big Walk is a co-op puzzle adventure game. Communication is essential for success in the game. Choosing bright character colours can help avoid getting lost. The game features a unique audio design that enhances gameplay. Players often find themselves getting lost, adding to the fun. Team dynamics play a crucial role in solving puzzles. Community engagement can enhance the gaming experience. In-game communication is more immersive than using external chat. The game is designed for larger groups to maximise enjoyment. Items like walkie-talkies and light sources are vital for navigation. The Evercold expansion for Final Fantasy XIV is highly anticipated. Players are returning to Final Fantasy XIV with excitement for new content. The addition of a butt slider in character customisation is a notable feature. Final Fantasy XIV has a strong community that supports new players. Marvel's Wolverine is ranked as the top upcoming game by the hosts. February 2024 is packed with major game releases, creating a competitive environment. The OST of Tears of Metal is a standout feature of the game. League of Legends Classic appeals to nostalgia for long-time players. The subscription system for Final Fantasy XIV remains complicated. Tears of Metal is a promising early access game with potential for growth. YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant RESOURCES Everything Announced At The Final Fantasy XIV Fan Festival Berlin Keynote - Explosion Network Ranking Every Major Video Game Releasing In September And October 2026 - Explosion Network Here's Every PlayStation Plus Monthly Game For August 2026 - Explosion Network Halo: Campaign Evolved Australian Review Roundup – Koalaty Critics - Explosion Network CREDITS 🎵 Music: Dylan Blight 🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay 🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques 📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM 👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

  4. Jul 26

    God Of War Future, Splatoon Raiders Impressions | Arcade Couch

    We discuss God of War: Laufey's release date and the future of Kratos, and Dylan shares his impressions of Splatoon Raiders. SHOW DOT POINTS Dylan enjoys playing Splatoon Raiders, appreciating its narrative elements. The game features a mix of single-player and multiplayer modes. Players can upgrade weapons and abilities throughout the game. The bond meter with AI companions adds a new layer to gameplay. Dylan finds the core shooting mechanics familiar yet engaging. The game runs smoothly on the Nintendo Switch at 60 frames per second. The story involves a mystical fog and treasure hunting. Dylan notes some levels feel repetitive in design. The music is enjoyable but could use more variety. The game could serve as an entry point for new players to the Splatoon franchise. August is a promising month for Australian game releases. Marvel Token Fighting Souls is generating significant interest. The hosts express mixed feelings about the pacing of the game's story mode. Visuals and character designs in Marvel Token Fighting Souls are praised. The gameplay feels a bit sluggish, impacting the overall experience. Blocking mechanics in the game seem inconsistent. The game offers various modes for training and casual play. Fog Piercer is a unique tactical roguelike deck-building game. The hosts are casual gamers, providing a different perspective on fighting games. There's a blend of excitement and scepticism about the new titles. YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley RESOURCES God of War: Laufey finally gets a release date - here's when you'll be able to play it What Video Games Are Coming Out in August 2026? - Explosion Network PlayStation Network down, as tens of thousands of players queue to play Marvel Tokon Fighting Souls newly-launched beta | Eurogamer.net Fogpiercer Review - Explosion Network   CREDITS 🎵 Music: Dylan Blight 🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay 🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques 📝 Show notes powered by Riverside. FM 👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

  5. Jul 19

    What’s Next for Fallout? Bethesda, Starfield & The Future of Xbox | Arcade Couch

    We discuss Bethesda's plans for the future of Fallout, The Elder Scrolls and more, as well as the devastating news for the upcoming God of War TV series. SHOW DOT POINTS The gaming industry is experiencing a shift with fewer new titles being released. Bethesda is focusing on expanding its existing franchises, such as Fallout and Starfield. Remasters of classic games are becoming more common as studios seek to capitalise on nostalgia. Fallout 5 is a long-term goal for Bethesda, with multiple projects in development. Fallout Shelter remains popular, with plans for a television adaptation. Live-action adaptations of video games face significant challenges, including casting issues. The success of remasters can be influenced by the performance of previous titles in the franchise. The gaming community is eager for new content, but many are also nostalgic for older games. Game reviews highlight the creativity and uniqueness of new titles in the market. The hosts encourage listener engagement and feedback for future episodes. YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley RESOURCES A NOTE FROM BETHESDA GAME STUDIOS The live-action God of War TV series suffers a huge setback as Kratos actor is injured badly on set and needs to be recast | Eurogamer.net Denshattack! Review - Explosion Network CREDITS 🎵 Music: Dylan Blight 🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay 🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques 📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM 👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

  6. Jul 12

    Is Physical Gaming Dying? Xbox Layoffs & Black Flag Remake Discussion | Arcade Couch

    We react to the Instagram comments about Ciaran's comments on last week's episode, discuss the Xbox layoffs and talk about AC: Black Flag. SHOW DOT POINTS Dylan returns after a two-week break, sparking banter. The gaming industry is facing more negative news. Social media reactions to Kieran's comments are intense. Consumers are upset about corporate control in gaming. Companies prioritise profit over consumer interests. The gaming industry struggles with sustainability and layoffs. Physical media is becoming obsolete in gaming. Video game conservation is a growing concern. Consumer behaviour affects game sales and studio viability. The transition to digital media is inevitable and controversial. Limited-run physical editions may not work for games. Gamers often justify their digital purchases with physical purchases. Microtransactions have been a part of gaming for years. Single-player games with microtransactions shouldn't affect others. Xbox's restructuring reflects a broader industry trend. Layoffs are painful but sometimes necessary for survival. The gaming industry may see fewer AAA titles in the future. The quality of games may decline as budgets increase. IO Interactive is refocusing on core titles after losing funding. The Black Flag remake offers a fresh experience for new players. YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Dylan Blight 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant RESOURCES Microsoft announces 3200 layoffs and four studio departures in "most significant" Xbox restructuring in history | Eurogamer.net IO Interactive regains full ownership of Project Fantasy following end of Xbox deal, shuts down Istanbul studio and lays off developers "to find a new balance" | Eurogamer.net CREDITS 🎵 Music: Dylan Blight 🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay 🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques 📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM 👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

  7. Jul 5

    Playstation Discontinuing Physical Media: Tragedy or Overblow? | Arcade Couch

    Sony dropped a grenade on the video games industry with the announcement that they will cease making physical discs at the start of 2028. Is this a monumental shift in gaming as we know it or just an overblown bump in an evolving medium? SHOW DOT POINTS Sony is ending physical disc production in 2028 Impact of digital-only releases on consumers and preservation Industry layoffs and studio closures at Xbox studios The future of game ownership and piracy Potential industry crash and market shifts Upcoming game adaptations and industry trends YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant RESOURCES PlayStation announces it will end physical disc production in 2028, and nobody is happy | ScreenHub: Film, TV, Streaming and Games  Sony has already started repurposing its lone PlayStation disc factory, and the body of physical gaming isn't even cold  PS5 fans flock to piracy as Sony plans to ditch physical games An update on PlayStation Store for PS3 and PS Vita  007 First Light developer faces layoffs after Xbox pulls support for upcoming fantasy game Xbox reportedly stops signing third-party Game Pass deals | Eurogamer.net ‘Persona’ Live-Action TV Adaptation in the Works at Netflix, 21 Laps & Story Kitchen to Produce (EXCLUSIVE) Xbox reportedly stops signing third-party Game Pass deals | Eurogamer.net CREDITS 🎵 Music: Dylan Blight 🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay 🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques 📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM 👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

  8. Jun 28

    GTA VI No Disc Drama and Rising Prices Continue | Arcade Couch

    Grand Theft Auto VI Pre-Orders went live this week with the reveal of the game’s higher-than-average price and the news that it will not be coming out on physical discs. Ashley and Ciaran question if this is a turning point for the industry before discussing the Bungie layoffs, Steam Machine pricing and July 2026 Game releases. SHOW DOT POINTS GTA 6 pricing and digital release strategy The decline of physical game media Bungie layoffs and studio restructuring Upcoming game releases in July 2026 YOUR HOSTS 🎙️ Ashley Hobley 🎙️ Ciaran Marchant RESOURCES Grand Theft Auto 6's Physical Editions Won't Include A Disc Rockstar Games Has No Plans for GTA 6 Physical Disc Version, Says Report  Here's The Aussie Grand Theft Auto 6 Prices Grand Theft Auto 6 Is A Single Player Experience With No Online Multiplayer  Bungie Has Been Hit By Significant Layoffs From The Destiny And Marathon Teams Xbox Series X|S Consoles Just Got Another Massive Price Increase What Video Games Are Coming Out in July 2026? - Explosion Network  CREDITS 🎵 Music: Dylan Blight 🎵 Sound Effect by floraphonic from Pixabay 🎨 Artwork: Cherie Henriques 📝 Show notes powered by Riverside.FM 👉 DISCOVER MORE ARCADE COUCH & EXPLOSION NETWORK Listen to every episode // Check out the website // Support Explosion Network

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About

Arcade Couch — News, reviews & spicy takes on the week in games. Arcade Couch is the Explosion Network’s premiere video games podcast featuring discussions on the latest games, tech, industry news and more. Available every Monday at 6 AM AEST/AEDT.

Information

  • Creator
    Explosion Network
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Explosion Network 2025
  • Show Website
    Arcade Couch