Buttons and Buds

Dylan Brennan

Buttons and Buds is a place for friends to gather and talk about the games we are playing and current events in the gaming space. We are a community of friendly gamers looking to learn about new games, news and patch notes!

Episódios

  1. 3/03

    Server Slam Fever!

    Join us as we dive into the world of Marathon, exploring its strengths and areas for improvement. From gunplay to progression systems, we cover it all in this detailed discussion. Links: https://www.marathonthegame.com/ https://discord.gg/wbdbfSTADs Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction Opening remarks and expectations for Marathon during the server slam. 0:52 - Onboarding and Menus Discussing the complexity of the game's menus and onboarding process. 2:52 - Destiny History and Progression Concerns Comparing Marathon's progression to Destiny's past experiences. 11:35 - Kit System Strengths Exploring the innovative kit system and its impact on gameplay. 14:47 - Movement Tool and Shield Mechanic Analyzing the unique movement and shield mechanics in the game. 17:32 - Scalable Power Discussing the game's approach to player power and progression. 21:54 - Content Drought Concerns Addressing concerns about content cadence and player engagement. 23:55 - PvP Culture in Marathon Sharing experiences with the game's active PvP environment. 34:44 - Solo Viability Critique Evaluating the game's support for solo players. 35:31 - VoIP Onboarding and Usability Critiquing the VoIP system and its integration into gameplay. 42:23 - Antivirus Kit Usefulness Discussing the strategic use of the antivirus kit. 54:44 - Soundscape and Immersion Highlighting the game's immersive sound design. 55:30 - Directional In-Game VoIP Exploring the directional audio features in party chat. 51:04 - Rook Recommendation Suggesting Rook as an entry point for new players. 58:58 - Pre-orders, Skins, and Season Pass Discussing the deluxe edition and its offerings. 60:06 - Closing Note Encouraging community engagement and future updates. Conclusion: Marathon offers a compelling experience with its strong core mechanics and immersive world. While there are areas for improvement, the potential for long-term engagement is promising. Stay tuned for more updates and join the conversation in the comments!

    1 h 1 min
  2. 9/02

    Arc Headwinds and Dune Chapter 3

    Arc Raiders & Gaming Updates Deep DiveIn this episode, Brendan and DB discuss the latest developments in Arc Raiders, covering new map conditions like Bird City, matchmaking improvements, community tools, and upcoming content. They also explore broader topics about game design, developer vision, and cross-game comparisons to Dune and Resident Evil series. Key Topics:Recent gameplay updates including solo vs squad queues, XP bonuses, and new map conditionsThe Trophy Case project and how it motivates exploration and learning game mechanicsCommunity resources like MetaForge and detailed map tools for max efficiencySpeculation on upcoming map releases and thematic inspirations, e.g., volcano and beach mapsThe importance of clear developer vision versus reactionary changes; lessons from Dune and Resident EvilEnhancing game longevity through skin variants, rewarding long-term play, and cosmetic unlocksQuality of life improvements: open party system, spectate features, obstacle movement, and bug fixesDiscussion on in-game economy: cap on credits, potential benefits for excess credits, and item rarityTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and episode overview 02:00 - Recent updates in Arc Raiders: matchmaking, map conditions, rewards 06:00 - Exploration of Bird City map design and gameplay strategies 12:00 - Community tools for maximizing gameplay efficiency 17:00 - Upcoming content teasers: large arc, new map themes, and map locations 24:00 - Developer vision, game polishing, and avoiding feature bloat 30:00 - Broader game industry lessons from Dune and Resident Evil 38:00 - End game systems, quest design, and player progression in Dune 44:00 - Comparing Resident Evil formats: from action to horror roots 50:00 - Final thoughts: game direction, long-term engagement, and studio planning Resources & Links: MetaForge Interactive Maps for Arc RaidersDune Awakening Base CalculatorDune Awakening Interactive MapArc Raiders Discord CommunityButtons and Buds Discord

    54 min
  3. 26/01

    Play with your friends in 2026

    Our conversation begins with an introduction to the podcast and the hosts. We then delve into the nostalgia and bonding experiences associated with gaming. The evolution of gaming, the rise of VR, and the resurgence of platformer games and couch co-op are discussed. We conclude with a focus on indie game innovation and the disappointment with AAA games. We discuss what we hope is the new renaissance in the gaming industry, highlighting the success of indie studios and the immersive sound design in Arc Raiders. The player interactions and the evolving dynamics within the game, showcasing the impact of aggression-based matchmaking and the surprising experiences of player interactions. We get into the dynamics of PvP and PvE gameplay in Arc Raiders, exploring the merits of both and the potential for large AI events. To wrap up our conversation we look into the world of tabletop RPGs and their offshoots, exploring the immersive experience of role-playing games and the creative freedom they offer. Brendan highlights the reimagining of tabletop RPGs and the unique storytelling opportunities they provide. Takeaways Couch co-op games are making a comebackIndie studios are breaking the mold with innovative game designAAA games are becoming bloated and money-driven Renaissance in the gaming industryImmersive sound design PvP and PvE dynamicsCommunity interactions Tabletop RPGs and their offshootsThe immersive experience of role-playing games Chapters 00:00 Indie Game Innovation and AAA Disappointment29:20 Renaissance in the Gaming Industry59:59 PvP and PvE Dynamics01:16:23 Community Interactions01:32:13 Reimagining Tabletop RPGs

    2 h 2 min

Sobre

Buttons and Buds is a place for friends to gather and talk about the games we are playing and current events in the gaming space. We are a community of friendly gamers looking to learn about new games, news and patch notes!