PODCAST · leisure
Xbox Casuals - An Xbox Podcast
by Tower Casuals
Xbox Casuals is a biweekly podcast dedicated to all things Xbox, brought to you by Tower Casuals. Every other Friday, hosts Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney break down the latest Xbox news, rumors, Game Pass updates, new releases, and more. Tune in for new episodes every other Friday on all major podcast platforms and on the Tower Casuals YouTube channel.
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Obsidian Returns to the Fallout Wasteland, But at What Cost?
Xbox is facing a crossroads, and the future of the brand depends on more than just nostalgia and remasters. In this episode of Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney break down the challenges facing Microsoft’s gaming division, from a lack of fresh ideas and major releases to questions about the company’s long-term strategy. The hosts discuss why remastered classics alone cannot carry Xbox forward, how gaming and movie culture continue to influence each other, and what Xbox needs to do to reconnect with players.This and more on Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. Join the Tower Casuals Community DiscordJoin the Tower Casuals Podcast Clan
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Asha Sharma Continues the XBOX Reset with 3200 Layoffs and 4 Studios Out
Email the podcast your questions or topics: [email protected] The move to digital downloads is changing the way we buy, own, and play video games, and it has many players wondering if physical games are slowly becoming a thing of the past. In this episode of Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney dive into the ongoing debate between physical and digital media, exploring the benefits and drawbacks of each. They discuss the reality of digital ownership, what happens when online stores shut down, and why many gamers are concerned about preserving their collections. At the same time, they look at the convenience of instant downloads, digital game libraries, and subscription services that have made gaming more accessible than ever. They also examine how Xbox and PlayStation are accelerating the industry’s move toward an all-digital future and share practical tips for protecting your game library, no matter which format you prefer.This and more on Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. Join the Tower Casuals Community DiscordJoin the Tower Casuals Podcast Clan
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221
Widespread Bungie Layoffs & The Impending Xbox Bloodbath
The team at Bungie, the studios at Xbox, and the video game industry continue to face one of its biggest turning points ever.This week, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney break down the major changes affecting both Bungie and the ongoing changes at Xbox. After Destiny 2 received its final planned service updates, Bungie announced nearly 300 layoffs, leaving Marathon as the studio’s primary focus under Sony. At the same time, Microsoft is undergoing major restructuring under new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma. Reports suggest several well-known Xbox studios, including Ninja Theory and Double Fine, could face closure while Microsoft also introduces a $150 price increase for Xbox consoles. Josh and Corey discuss what led to these decisions, how Xbox Game Pass fits into Microsoft’s long-term strategy, and what this wave of layoffs and restructuring could mean for the future of the gaming industry.This and more on Tower Casuals and Xbox Casuals.Join the Tower Casuals Community DiscordJoin the Tower Casuals Podcast Clan
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XBOX Summer Showcase Reaction and Review Discussion
The Xbox Summer Showcase has come and gone, and Xbox delivered one of its strongest presentations in years.This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney break down everything from the Xbox Summer Showcase, including the latest looks at Gears of War: E-Day, Fable, Halo: Combat Evolved Remake, Clockwork Revolution, and much more.The duo also dives into Xbox’s growing partnership with SEGA, the reveal of Persona 4 Revival, rumors surrounding Persona 6, the return of Crazy Taxi, and the stunning new translucent Xbox Series X special edition console.All this and more on Xbox Casuals.This and more on Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast.Join our communities:Boss Rush Community Discord Tower Casuals Destiny DiscordFollow our Hosts: Corey Dirrig, Founder of Boss Rush Media, Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast, and the Boss Rush NetworkJosh Finney, cofounder and cohost of Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast.
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It's Time for XBOX Summer Showcase Predictions
The XBOX Summer Showcase is right around the corner, so you know what time it is. This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney discuss the recent news on what's happening at Bungie, Destiny 2, and Marathon Season 2, the discussions surrounding XBOX's major changes internally and what "tough decisions" actually means, and what Asha Sharma's first on-stage appearance might look like at the Summer Showcase. They also go through their top 5 predictions for the XBOX Summer Showcase, including Halo 7, Wolfenstein III, Quake, The Coalition's new IP, and the reveal of Project Helix. This and more on Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast.Join our communities:Boss Rush Community Discord Tower Casuals Destiny DiscordFollow our Hosts: Corey Dirrig, Founder of Boss Rush Media, Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast, and the Boss Rush NetworkJosh Finney, cofounder and cohost of Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast.
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The Death of Xbox Copilot, Leadership Changes, and 007: First Light
The future of Xbox just got a whole lot more interesting with potential leaks, leadership shakeups, and a surprise shadow drop. This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney discuss new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma's continued aggression in player-first moves, the latest in leadership changes, Forza Horizon 6 and whether legit city racing could finally return to the series in its Japanese setting, the potential Halo 2 and Halo 3 remakes, and talk about why IO Interactive’s James Bond: First Light already feels like a Game of the Year contender. Plus they look ahead to the June Showcase, discuss if Fable can survive the GTA VI hype cycle, and what they could possibly see in the 30 minute showcase of Gears of War: E-Day. This and more this week on Xbox Casuals. Join our communities:Boss Rush Community Discord Tower Casuals Destiny DiscordFollow our Hosts: Corey Dirrig, Founder of Boss Rush Media, Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast, and the Boss Rush NetworkJosh Finney, cofounder and cohost of Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast.
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Xbox Game Pass Gets Cheaper As Call of Duty Exits
Xbox is making some aggressive moves, and it feels like things are finally out in the open. Under Asha Sharma and Matt Booty, the team laid out a clear four-part plan for the future, covering hardware, games, player experience, and services. On this week’s Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney discuss what it all means, from stabilizing the current console generation and teasing Project Helix, to growing franchises and rethinking how Xbox Game Pass works going forward. There’s even talk of potential acquisitions and changes to exclusivity. It’s a lot to take in, but more than anything, it finally feels like Xbox is being upfront about where it’s headed and has lit some fire under the community. Now it’s just a matter of seeing how it all plays out.This and more this week on Xbox Casuals. Join our communities:Boss Rush Community Discord Tower Casuals Destiny DiscordFollow our Hosts: Corey Dirrig, Founder of Boss Rush Media, Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast, and the Boss Rush NetworkJosh Finney, cofounder and cohost of Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast.
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Epic Games Lays Off 1000 Employees as Industry Continues Its Spiral
The gaming world feels a little all over the place right now.This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney break down the March 2026 Xbox Partner Preview and its 19 reveals before shifting to the tougher side of the industry, including Epic Games laying off over 1,000 employees as Fortnite engagement declines and costs continue to rise, leading to the shutdown of modes like Ballistic and Rocket Racing.It’s a reminder that even the biggest companies are chasing profitability as budgets grow and development timelines get longer. This and more on Xbox Casuals.Follow our Hosts: Corey Dirrig, Founder of Boss Rush Media, Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast, and the Boss Rush NetworkJosh Finney, cofounder and cohost of Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast.
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What is the Messaging Behind Xbox's Project Helix?
What exactly is Microsoft trying to say about the future of Xbox? On paper, it’s actually a lot simpler than they’re making it sound.This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney dig into Project Helix. The idea behind Helix sounds pretty simple on paper—bringing Xbox and PC gaming libraries together into one ecosystem that could include games from the Microsoft Store, Steam, Epic Games, and more—but Microsoft’s messaging around it has been anything but clear. Corey and Josh talk through what it could mean for the future of the console if Microsoft pulls it off, while also raising plenty of questions about how multiple storefronts would work on an Xbox, how physical backward compatibility might translate to a more PC-style library, where Game Pass and Play Anywhere fit into the strategy, whether the interface could resemble devices like the ROG Ally X, what this means for Xbox’s multiplatform plans, and ultimately how much a console like this might actually cost. This and more on Xbox Casuals: The Xbox Podcast. Follow our Hosts: Corey Dirrig, Founder of Boss Rush Media, Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast, and the Boss Rush NetworkJosh Finney, cofounder and cohost of Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast.
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Sarah Bond and Phil Spencer are Leaving Xbox, Asha Sharma Named New CEO
Xbox shocked the gaming world on Friday with major leadership changes.This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney break down the massive news shaking up Xbox. Sarah Bond and Phil Spencer are stepping away from their roles as they help usher in a new era under incoming CEO Asha Sharma.Does Sharma’s resume set her up for success—or could it present challenges as she takes the reins of Microsoft’s gaming brand?Let’s discuss on Xbox Casuals.#XboxCasuals #PhilSpencer #SarahBond #XboxLeadership #XboxPodcast
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Can Xbox Deliver on Halo, Gears of War, Fable, and Forza This Year?
Xbox’s biggest games are coming—but the hype for them seems to be waning.This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney dig into the long road to Xbox’s biggest upcoming releases, including Halo: Campaign Evolved, Gears of War: E-DAY, Fable, Forza Horizon 6, and what the broader 2026 Xbox lineup is shaping up to look like.They also break down a recent Obsidian interview, discussing the softer sales performance of The Outer Worlds 2 and Avowed, the studio’s push to shorten development cycles, and what Obsidian might be working on next.All that—and plenty more Xbox talk—on Xbox Casuals.
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Xbox Developer Direct Shows Fable Has Major Potential to be Great
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney are back — and 2026 is shaping up to be a truly fabled year for Xbox. 🟢✨The guys break down everything announced during Xbox Developer_Direct, celebrating Xbox’s 25th anniversary and spotlighting some of the most exciting games coming in 2026. From Playground Games delivering not one but two major titles, to a brand-new action RPG from legendary Japanese studio Game Freak, this showcase set the tone for what’s ahead.Featured discussions include:🗡️ Fable – Our first in-depth look at Albion’s return🏁 Forza Horizon 6 – Open-world racing takes on Japan🐻❄️ Beast of Reincarnation – Game Freak’s bold new action RPG🏺Kiln is real from DoubleFine📺 Tune in to hear the conversation! This and more on this episode of Xbox Casuals. #Xbox #XboxCasuals #DeveloperDirect #Fable #ForzaHorizon6 #GameFreak #Xbox2026 #XboxPodcast #GamingPodcast
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Game of the Year 2025 and Our Most Anticipated Games of 2026
This week on Tower Casuals: The Destiny PodcastCorey Dirrig and Josh Finney are back for their first episode of 2026 to discuss their favorite games of 2025, their Game of the Year, and their most anticipated games of 2026.This and more on Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast! Follow our Hosts: Corey Dirrig, Founder of Boss Rush Media, Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast, and the Boss Rush NetworkJosh Finney, cofounder and cohost of Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast. Read our Review for The Edge of FateJoin the Tower Casuals Communities Online:Join the Tower Casuals Community DiscordJoin the Tower Casuals Podcast ClanThank You:Thank you for watching and/or listening to Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast. You can find the show on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If you enjoyed the discussion, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel, or rate us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Drop a comment to share your thoughts on this week’s news or leave a question for next week’s episode. Thank you for your continued support of Tower Casuals, Xbox Casuals, and Boss Rush Media!
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Let's Talk About The Game Awards Announcements and Winners
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney return to discuss the announcements and winners of The Game Awards in this final episode of 2025. The show will return in 2026.All that and more on this week’s episode of Xbox Casuals.Thank you for watching or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast from Tower Casuals and Boss Rush Media. You can find the show on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If you enjoyed the discussion, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and rate us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Drop a comment to share your thoughts on this week’s news or leave a question for next week’s episode. Thank you for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.#XboxCasuals #XboxPodcast #TheGameAwards
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The ROG Xbox Ally X Makes Xbox's Messaging Much More Complicated
This week on Xbox Casuals - An Xbox Podcast Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney return after a few weeks off—and there’s a lot to talk about, though not all of it’s good.They kick things off with the ROG Ally X and its awkward Good Morning America debut. The problem? The ROG Ally isn’t an Xbox console—it’s a PC. Branding it with the Xbox logo has caused major confusion, and while Xbox is promoting the device, they’ve publicly blamed ROG for its pricing, hinting at tension between the two companies.Next, they dive into the latest on Halo. Reports suggest Halo Studios is developing two new projects—one likely a Halo: Combat Evolved remake, and the other Halo 7. Meanwhile, Certain Affinity is said to be building a live-service multiplayer Halo title, with Microsoft hoping for a longer tail than Halo Infinite.Unfortunately, all isn’t well within the studio. Two former employees recently spoke out on social media about internal issues they can’t fully discuss yet but plan to when the time comes—suggesting ongoing cultural and management problems.Finally, Corey and Josh share their thoughts on the latest Game Pass price hike, the pressure it’s putting on Xbox’s studios, and their hopes that beloved teams like Double Fine, Compulsion Games, and Ninja Theory won’t be affected by layoffs or closures.All that and more on this week’s episode of Xbox Casuals.Thank you for watching or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast from Tower Casuals and Boss Rush Media. You can find the show on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If you enjoyed the discussion, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and rate us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Drop a comment to share your thoughts on this week’s news or leave a question for next week’s episode. Thank you for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.#XboxCasuals #XboxPodcast #XboxNews #Xbox #Halo #Halo7 #HaloRemake #ROGAllyX #XboxGamePass #GamePass #XboxStudios #MicrosoftGaming #XboxCommunity #GamingPodcast #XboxSeriesX #XboxUpdates #HaloInfinite
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Tokyo Game Show Reactions and The Xbox Ecosystem Gets More Expensive
This week on Xbox Casuals - An Xbox Podcast Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney react to Microsoft’s latest Xbox price hikes—including the shocking $1,000 ROG Ally X—and what it means for the future of Xbox hardware. They rant about mismanagement, fading retail presence, and whether PC or PlayStation is now the smarter buy, while also digging into all the Tokyo Game Show trailers like Ninja Gaiden 4, 007 starring Gemma Chan, Monster Hunter 1 and 2, and more. Finally, they discuss the most recent Nintendo Direct and State of Play presentations, discussing the new Fire Emblem game, Ghost of Yotei, Mario Tennis, and the rereveal of Marvel and Insomniac's Wolverine.This and more on Xbox Casuals.Thank you for watching or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast from Tower Casuals and Boss Rush Media. You can find the show on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If you enjoyed the discussion, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and rate us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Drop a comment to share your thoughts on this week’s news or leave a question for next week’s episode. Thank you for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.#TokyoGameShow #StateofPlay #Wolverine #NintendoDirect #Xbox #PlayStation #GamingNews #Hades2 #ROGXboxAllyX
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What Will Xbox Show Off at Tokyo Game Show?
This week on Xbox Casuals - An Xbox Podcast Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney take a look at the upcoming Tokyo Game Show and what Xbox might bring to the stage, including the push to gain ground in Japan with the ROG Xbox Ally X and the possibility of Forza Horizon 6 being set in Tokyo.They also explore what SEGA could reveal, from revivals of classics like Jet Set Radio and Crazy Taxi to potential new projects from Atlus, such as a Persona 4 remake or another RPG.Elsewhere, Gears of War Reloaded is grabbing Xbox players’ attention, Call of Duty may be heading to the big screen, and behind the scenes, Perfect Dark was nearly handed off to 2K before the deal fell through—leading to major layoffs at Crystal Dynamics.This and more on Xbox Casuals.Follow our HostsCorey Dirrig, Founder of Boss Rush Media and the Boss Rush NetworkJosh Finney, Cofounder of Tower Casuals and Xbox CasualsJoin the Boss Rush Community: Join the Boss Rush Network Community DiscordJoin the Tower Casuals Destiny Community DiscordFollow Xbox Casuals on Social MediaYou can follow Xbox Casuals on X/Twitter, Bluesky, and Instagram/Threads. You can follow Tower Casuals on X/Twitter, Bluesky, and Instagram/Threads.Follow Boss Rush Network: Follow Boss Rush Network on X/Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and InstagramSupport Boss Rush Network:Support Boss Rush on Patreon and buy merch on our Store. Subscribe to Boss Rush on YouTube and visit our website at BossRush.net for more great content.Thank you for Your Continued Support!Thank you for watching or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast from Tower Casuals and Boss Rush Media. You can find the show on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If you enjoyed the discussion, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and rate us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Drop a comment to share your thoughts on this week’s news or leave a question for next week’s episode. Thank you for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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Xbox Shows Big at Gamescom 2025 and Silksong Has a Release Date
It was a big week at Gamescom and the boys have a lot to say about it! This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney discuss the massive showing for Xbox at Gamescom, including the Xbox ROG Ally X, Indiana Jones' DLC, and the release date for Hollow Knight: Silksong.They then shift the conversation to Helldivers II on Xbox, Gears of War Reloaded on PlayStation, and how both games compliment each other in terms of where their strengths are in terms of gameplay. They also hit on Crystal Dynamics and Cloud Chamber layoffs, Rod Fergusson heading up BioShock 4, the big fall ahead, Xbox's 25th anniversary in 2026, and more. Follow our HostsCorey Dirrig, Founder of Boss Rush Media and the Boss Rush NetworkJosh Finney, Cofounder of Tower Casuals and Xbox CasualsJoin the Boss Rush Community: Join the Boss Rush Network Community DiscordJoin the Tower Casuals Destiny Community DiscordFollow Xbox Casuals on Social MediaYou can follow Xbox Casuals on X/Twitter, Bluesky, and Instagram/Threads. You can follow Tower Casuals on X/Twitter, Bluesky, and Instagram/Threads.Follow Boss Rush Network: Follow Boss Rush Network on X/Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and InstagramSupport Boss Rush Network:Support Boss Rush on Patreon and buy merch on our Store. Subscribe to Boss Rush on YouTube and visit our website at BossRush.net for more great content.Thank you for Your Continued Support!Thank you for watching or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast from Tower Casuals and Boss Rush Media. You can find the show on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If you enjoyed the discussion, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and rate us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Drop a comment to share your thoughts on this week’s news or leave a question for next week’s episode. Thank you for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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Xbox at Gamescom, Helldivers 2 + ODST, and Rod Fergusson Leaves Blizzard
It’s a big week for the return of Xbox Casuals with Gamescom on the horizon—so let’s dive in!This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney explore a packed lineup of Xbox titles set to make waves at Gamescom. They unpack the buzz surrounding a potential Halo: ODST crossover with the upcoming Helldivers 2 release and discuss what might be next for the franchise following the announcement that this year’s HCS Worlds will be Halo Infinite’s last.The excitement is tempered, however, by news of yet another cancellation for Contraband, Satya Nadella’s empty remarks on layoffs, the rise of AI at Microsoft, and the continued lack of messaging for upcoming releases like Hellblade 2 on PlayStation.The conversation then shifts to Ubisoft, which has dropped major updates for The Division 2 that could significantly impact the game’s direction and player engagement. Meanwhile, MachineGames has confirmed they are working on two additional projects outside of the upcoming Indiana Jones DLC. Corey and Josh can’t help but speculate if one of these mystery titles could finally be Wolfenstein 3. They also dive into the surprise rereleases of Heretic and Hexen, which include brand-new chapters developed by id Software.This and more on Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast! Follow our HostsCorey Dirrig, Founder of Boss Rush Media and the Boss Rush NetworkJosh Finney, Cofounder of Tower Casuals and Xbox CasualsJoin the Boss Rush Community: Join the Boss Rush Network Community DiscordJoin the Tower Casuals Destiny Community DiscordFollow Xbox Casuals on Social MediaYou can follow Xbox Casuals on X/Twitter, Bluesky, and Instagram/Threads. You can follow Tower Casuals on X/Twitter, Bluesky, and Instagram/Threads.Follow Boss Rush Network: Follow Boss Rush Network on X/Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and InstagramSupport Boss Rush Network:Support Boss Rush on Patreon and buy merch on our Store. Subscribe to Boss Rush on YouTube and visit our website at BossRush.net for more great content.Thank you for Your Continued Support!Thank you for watching or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast from Tower Casuals and Boss Rush Media. You can find the show on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If you enjoyed the discussion, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and rate us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Drop a comment to share your thoughts on this week’s news or leave a question for next week’s episode. Thank you for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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Xbox Partners with AMD for Next Generation and Library Compatibility
We’re talking Xbox's partnership with AMD, the aftermath of the layoffs, Banjo vs. Spyro, the canceled sci-fi game Project Blackbird, and more. Let's Jump in!Join the DiscordOn this episode of Xbox Casuals, hosts Josh Finney and Corey Dirrig unpack Xbox’s recently announced partnership with AMD, a strategic move aimed at future-proofing the next generation of Xbox hardware while maintaining full compatibility with current titles and legacy digital libraries.They continue to talk about the recent wave of layoffs at Microsoft and Xbox, examining what the cuts reveal about internal restructuring and the shifting creative direction at Xbox. One major point of discussion was the sudden cancellation of Project Blackbird, Zenimax Online's new sci-fi epic with visuals inspired by Blade Runner and a gameplay loop similar to Destiny 2 or Warframe, that ended with studio founder Matt Firor resigning immediately and adding to the long list of talent Xbox has lost since the Bethesda acquisition.They then discuss the enduring appeal of classics like Spyro the Dragon, Crash Bandicoot, and Banjo-Kazooie, especially as reports surface that Microsoft may be open to reviving one of these beloved IPs, and finish up with the games they've been playing, including 2025 releases like Avowed and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as well as the original classic Final Fantasy VII just before Remake hits Xbox this fall.
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Perfect Dark and Everwild CANCELLED, The Initiative Shut Down by Xbox
Xbox just dropped a bombshell on the industry—studio closures, major game cancellations, and massive layoffs. What does it all mean for the future of Xbox? Let’s break it down.Join the DiscordThis week on Xbox Casuals, Josh Finney and Corey Dirrig dive into one of the most shocking weeks in recent Xbox history. Microsoft has confirmed the closure of The Initiative, the studio once tasked with reviving the Perfect Dark franchise. Not only has the game been officially canceled, but other high-profile projects have also been cut—including Rare’s long-anticipated Everwild and ZeniMax’s unannounced MMO, Project Blackbird.That’s just the beginning. The episode also covers the latest round of layoffs across Xbox Game Studios, which has hit multiple teams hard. Turn 10, the team behind Forza Motorsport, has reportedly lost 50% of its staff. Mobile studio King saw a 10% reduction, and there are unconfirmed but significant cuts at Activision, Blizzard, Bethesda, and other first-party studios under the Xbox umbrella.Josh and Corey discuss what these changes could mean for Xbox’s future strategy, the morale across the gaming community, and how fans are responding to the ongoing turbulence within Microsoft’s gaming division. They also touch on how these decisions might impact the roadmap for the next generation of Xbox hardware and software.Whether you’re a long-time Xbox fan or just trying to keep up with the whirlwind of news, this episode brings thoughtful analysis, honest reactions, and a much-needed breakdown of a chaotic week in gaming.All that and more, right here on Xbox Casuals.Thank you for watching or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast from Tower Casuals and Boss Rush Media. You can find the show on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If you enjoyed the discussion, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and rate us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Drop a comment to share your thoughts on this week’s news or leave a question for next week’s episode. Thank you for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media!
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Let's Talk Xbox Summer Showcase and Summer Game Fest
Xbox Summer Showcase and Summer Game Fest have come and gone, so Corey and Josh are here to recap the two major presentations and discuss the games shown off for Xbox. Did it deliver or were they duds? Let's discuss. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.#XCP45 #XboxGamePass #XboxSummerShowcase2025
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State of Play Xbox Games and Predicting the Summer Showcase
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss all of the Xbox games shown at PlayStation's latest State of Play and make predictions about the Xbox Summer Showcase this weekend. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.#XCP45 #XboxGamePass #XboxSummerShowcase2025
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Game Pass gets Massive Games, Marathon's Art Debacle, & Xbox Wins on PS5
This week on Xbox Casuals, Josh and Corey discuss the massive influx of great games coming to Game Pass, including Metaphor: ReFantazio, Xbox games topping the PS5 charts, the Marathon art controversy, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and more. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.#XCP44 #XboxGamePass #ClairObscurExpedition33
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Xbox is PlayStation’s Biggest Publisher as Gears of War Reloaded Goes Multiplatform
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh talk about the announcement of Gears of War Reloaded coming to Xbox Series X and S, PC, and for the first time, PlayStation 5. They also dive into Xbox becoming the biggest publisher on Sony’s platform, a strong fiscal quarter, the possible end of two iconic media outlets, and more. Later in the episode, Josh shares his first impressions of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, one of 2025’s biggest surprises.X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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Can We Keep Up with Xbox First Party Games and Game Pass in 2025?
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss how Xbox first party is finally delivering on the promise they set out on over a decade ago with first party offerings in 2025, how they will support Nintendo Switch 2 and other platforms, the cool Doom special edition controllers, and more. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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Xbox Summer Showcase Predictions Time, Marathon, and More
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss the Xbox Summer Showcase, Nintendo Switch 2's implications on the future pricing of games, Marathon's tease, and more.X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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There's a Steam in My Xbox UI
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss Steam appearing on an image featuring Xbox UI, Game Informer's return, Ubisoft's big move to save the company, and more.X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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39. Xbox Handheld Incoming with a Twist
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss the Xbox handheld reported on this past week and what it could mean for the future of the publisher. They also talk about Tony Hawk, Oblivion remake, Monster Hunter, and more. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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38. Tony Hawk Rides Again in Newly Revealed Teaser
This week on Xbox Casuals, Josh and Corey talk about the newly revealed Tony Hawk game in development, possibly the 3 and 4 remasters fans have been waiting for. They also discuss the WB Games studios that were closed this week, as well as the canceled Wonder Woman game. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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37. Avowed Impressions and Xbox's Multiplatform Strategy
This week on Xbox Casuals, Josh and Corey talk early impressions of Avowed, what Xbox's transition into multiplatform publishing could look like, more Call of Duty on Game Pass, and more. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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36. Xbox Has a Massive 2025 Lineup, Is it Too Much?
This week on Xbox Casuals, Josh and Corey discuss the massive lineup Xbox could potentially have this year and if it is actually too much to handle. Its a great time to be an Xbox fan! X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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35. Breaking Down the Xbox Developer Direct, Was it Worth It?
This week on Xbox Casuals, Josh and Corey breakdown the Xbox Developer Direct, discussing all of the games shown including Doom: The Dark Ages, South of Midnight, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and the surprise announcements of Ninja Gaiden II Black, which was shadowdropped on Game Pass on Thursday, and a brand new sequel to the long-running franchise in Ninja Gaiden 4 coming to Game Pass this fall.X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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34. Xbox Has News Coming. What is the Mystery Game?
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss the potential for next week's Developer Direct, what the secret game might be, their games of the year, and more. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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33. Indiana Jones and the Great Game Awards Reactions
VOTE: https://forms.gle/Y1vmeq6XGobQ3rQe7This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Xbox's 2025, and react live to The Game Awards as things are announced. That and more. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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32. Phil Spencer Spills the Beans about Xbox's Future in Recent Interviews
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss the roundup of Phil Spencer interviews about multiplatform titles, an Xbox handheld, their new marketing campaigns, and more. They also discuss the recent Indiana Jones and South of Midnight preview coverage, Black Ops 6 crossover skins, the massive lineup of games coming in 2025 and beyond, and more. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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31. Perfect Dark's New Creative Director & Call of Duty Black Ops 6 is Awesome
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss the shocking news that Perfect Dark snags their Creative Director from Insomniac, Black Ops 6's return to form, Xbox's financials, and more. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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30. The Xbox Partner Showcase Discussion
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey discusses the games shown off at the Xbox Partner Showcase and some of his highlights from the event.X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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29. Halo is Back as 343 Rebrands as Halo Studios at HCS
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss the big Halo announcement from HCS this weekend, including multiple Halo games being in development with Unreal Engine and 343 Industries rebranding as Halo Studios. Will this revitalize the series and return it to its former glory? X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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28. More Layoffs, Tokyo Game Show Predictions, and More
This week, Josh and Corey discuss more layoffs at Xbox, Sarah Bond's recent interview, Tokyo Game Show predictions, SEGA, and more. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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27. Story Time with Phil Spencer Had Some Twists at PAX West
This week, Corey and Josh discuss Story Time with Phil Spencer from PAX West and the revelations that came from the interview, including some questionable decisions and strategies Xbox made during the last two decades. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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26. Gamescom, The Indiana Jones PS5 Disaster, and Star Wars Outlaws
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss all of the Xbox related announcements from Gamescom, Indiana Jones and the PS5 Desaster, Star Wars Outlaws, Borderlands 4, and more. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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25. Xbox's Strong Fall and Game Informer's Closure
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss the Xbox first party lineup for the fall, why the Avowed delay made sense, Game Informer's closure, and more. X/TwitterBlueskyDiscordThank you for watching and/or listening to Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. You can find us on all major podcast services, on YouTube, or on the Tower Casuals website. Remember if you’re watching on YouTube to subscribe to the channel, like the video, and leave a comment. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave us a review and five star rating. Thanks for your continued support of Xbox Casuals, Tower Casuals, and Boss Rush Media.
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24. What is Going On with Xbox and Game Pass?
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss the massive influx of bad messaging surrounding Xbox, Game Pass, and their services as a whole. What is going on over there?
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23. Xbox 2024 Summer Showcase Review Discussion
This week, Corey and Josh discuss the Xbox Summer Showcase and its games, including a Doom and Gears prequel, Call of Duty Black Ops 6, and more. Corey Dirrig: Twitter | Instagram Josh Finney: Twitter | Instagram Email Us: [email protected] Follow Tower Casuals: Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Twitch Join the Tower Casuals Discord! You can find Xbox Casuals every other Tuesday and on YouTube and on podcast services. Xbox Casuals is part of the Tower Casuals extended podcast network. If you enjoyed the podcast, consider subscribing. Thanks for watching!
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22. Hellblade II Impressions and Xbox Showcase Predictions
This week, Corey and Josh discuss their spoilerfree impressions of Hellblade II, how Ninja Theory has positioned themselves in Xbox's studio lineup, make their predictions for the Xbox Showcase, and more. Corey Dirrig: Twitter | Instagram Josh Finney: Twitter | Instagram Email Us: [email protected] Follow Tower Casuals: Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Twitch Join the Tower Casuals Discord! You can find Xbox Casuals every other Tuesday and on YouTube and on podcast services. Xbox Casuals is part of the Tower Casuals extended podcast network. If you enjoyed the podcast, consider subscribing. Thanks for watching!
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21. Xbox Closes Tango Gameworks, Arkane Austin, and More
This week, Josh and Corey break down the shocking development of Xbox closing four Bethesda studios, including the beloved Tango Gameworks and the studio behind Prey, Arkane Austin. What is going on over at Xbox? Is Microsoft taking over?
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20. Fallout Explodes and ID@Xbox Indie Showcase Hits
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss Fallout's rise, the ID@Xbox Showcase, SEGA's game revival rumors, and more.
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19. Sarah Bond and Xbox Create Game Preservation Team
This week, Corey and Josh discuss the Xbox Game Preservation Program, more layoffs, Game Pass, and more.
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18. Phil Spencer Celebrates 10 Years as the Head of Xbox
This week on Xbox Casuals, Corey and Josh discuss Phil Spencer's 10 year anniversary as the head of Xbox, a white all digital Series X, Gearbox being sold to 2K, and more.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Xbox Casuals is a biweekly podcast dedicated to all things Xbox, brought to you by Tower Casuals. Every other Friday, hosts Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney break down the latest Xbox news, rumors, Game Pass updates, new releases, and more. Tune in for new episodes every other Friday on all major podcast platforms and on the Tower Casuals YouTube channel.
HOSTED BY
Tower Casuals
CATEGORIES
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