Press Start Select Podcast

Xbox may be preparing its next major move with Project Helix, a rumored strategy that could blur the line between console and PC. If Microsoft is really heading toward a unified ecosystem, what does that mean for traditional consoles and the future of Game Pass?This week on the Press Start Select Podcast, Antonius DaGamer and Super SSS Rank break down the growing speculation around Project Helix and whether it could finally solve Xbox’s long-standing identity problem. They also react to reports of an Assassin’s Creed Black Flag remake, discuss why Ubisoft keeps returning to its most beloved entry, and explore the ongoing roguelike boom sparked by massive interest in games like Slay the Spire.From Xbox strategy to Ubisoft nostalgia and indie genre dominance, this episode dives into some of the biggest conversations happening in gaming right now.Episode Chapters00:00 – Intro & catching up02:45 – Assassin’s Creed Black Flag remake discussion15:31 – Why roguelikes are exploding in popularity21:54 – Xbox Project Helix explained30:06 – Microsoft strategy & pricing speculation1:26:13 – PlayStation & Nintendo quick hits1:45:15 – Resident Evil discussion1:50:02 – Final thoughts & outroFollow Press Start SelectYouTube: Press Start Select PodcastAntonius: Antonius DaGamerSuper SSS Rank: SuperSSSRankIf you enjoy the show, follow the podcast and leave a rating — it helps more gamers and anime fans discover the show.

Xbox may be entering its biggest transition in years.This week on Press Start Select Podcast, Antonius DaGamer and SSS Rank react to reports that Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond are stepping away from leadership roles at Xbox. What does this mean for Microsoft’s long-term strategy? Is this the end of an era — or a necessary reset?We also break down Sony’s decision to shut down Bluepoint Games, the remake powerhouse behind the Demon's Souls PS5 launch title. After years of strong critical output, what actually determines whether a studio survives in today’s AAA environment?On the Nintendo side, we discuss the release of Pokémon FireRed and Pokémon LeafGreen at $20 each — and whether this is a meaningful shift in accessibility strategy or just another calculated nostalgia play.This episode connects the dots across all three platform holders:Xbox leadership uncertaintySony’s studio closures & live service misstepsNintendo’s response to emulation and legacy demandWhat actually keeps a studio alive in 2026If you’re watching the long-term direction of Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo, this is a pivotal week.

Was this the strongest PlayStation State of Play in years?In Episode 77 of Press Start Select, Antonius DaGamer and Super SSS Rank break down a showcase packed with major announcements, deep cuts, and unexpected revivals. From the long-awaited return of Metal Gear Solid 4 to a rumored God of War trilogy remake, Sony may have delivered one of its most complete presentations in recent memory.But not everything landed.The conversation explores:• Why this State of Play felt like a turning point for PlayStation• Metal Gear Solid 4’s comeback and what it means for preservation• Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls, roster balance, and the shadow of Marvel vs. Capcom 3• The continued expansion of the Horizon universe• PS5 Pro pricing, rising hardware costs, and the shift toward PC• Why indie studios are outperforming AAA in creativity and audience connectionWas this a true return to form — or just a strong night in a turbulent generation?TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Intro01:09 PlayStation State of Play Was FIRE03:42 Metal Gear Solid 4 Is BACK24:32 Ghost of Yotei & Third Party Highlights25:19 Marvel Tokon Roster Expectations 47:30 God of War Remake1:02:29 HighGuard's Marketing Killed the Game1:17:20 Horizon Hunters Gathering Deep Dive1:40:48 Steam Machine Delayed1:58:12 Outro

Ubisoft is at a breaking point.After canceling the long-awaited Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time remake and facing internal backlash from staff and unions, the publisher’s long-standing strategies are being put under a microscope. In this episode, we unpack what Ubisoft’s turmoil says about leadership, creative burnout, and the growing disconnect between publishers and players.We also shift focus to Nintendo’s future — including the massive expectations surrounding Metroid Prime 4 and whether it can finally become a true flagship franchise alongside Mario and Zelda. Plus, we dig into Sony’s experimental new controller patent, Xbox Game Pass updates, Obsidian’s direction with The Outer Worlds 2, and why modern gaming struggles with long-term commitment.A wide-ranging conversation about the state of the industry, creative risk, and why so many games feel harder to care about than ever.

Tomb Raider casting backlash, God of War heading to live-action, and why so many modern games feel creatively risk-averse.This week on Press Start Select Podcast, Antonius and S Rank dive into the backlash surrounding Sophie Turner as Lara Croft, the ongoing debate over what Tomb Raider even is in 2026, and whether Amazon can repeat its Fallout success with another major game adaptation.The conversation expands into God of War’s live-action series, casting reactions to Kratos, and the growing concern that some franchises simply don’t work without blockbuster movie budgets. From Netflix’s Tomb Raider anime to Hollywood’s obsession with “safe” adaptations, we break down why passion, tone, and identity matter more than brand recognition.On the gaming side, we get into High Guard, art direction fatigue, Marvel Rivals’ visual appeal, live-service oversaturation, and why aesthetics still play a massive role in whether a game survives. We also touch on the decline of Western comics, the rise of manga, and how cultural storytelling has shifted across games, TV, and animation.If you’re interested in Tomb Raider, God of War, live-action game adaptations, modern game design, and the state of gaming culture — this episode connects all the dots.

2025 was a turbulent year for the video game industry, marked by studio closures, hardware uncertainty, delayed releases, and a growing sense that modern gaming has lost clear leadership and creative direction.In this episode of the Press Start Select Podcast, Antonius and Super SSS Rank break down the biggest industry failures and frustrations of 2025, including Xbox’s identity crisis, Nintendo’s changing perception among longtime fans, the increasing reliance on Rockstar Games to drive innovation, and the absence of true “must-play” cultural moments that once defined gaming eras.The conversation also explores the rising cost of technology, the impact of AI on accessibility, the future of handheld gaming, and why PC, mobile devices, and platforms like Steam are reshaping how and where people play. Despite the challenges, the episode highlights positive trends such as the rise of indie developers, improved crossplay support, stronger game adaptations, and promising titles heading into 2026.This episode serves as a candid reflection on where gaming stands today—and what it will take for the industry to regain trust, creativity, and leadership moving forward.

The Game Awards 2025 sparked mixed reactions, surprise wins, and growing questions about the future of the gaming industry.In this episode of the Press Start Select Podcast, the crew breaks down what worked, what fell flat, and why the show felt strangely hollow this year. We discuss Clair Obscur’s Game of the Year sweep, the ongoing frustration with CGI trailers and live-service fatigue, and whether gamers are officially in “backlog season.”The conversation also touches on Resident Evil 9, Sega’s absence from the show, Nintendo’s Amiibo-locked DLC, Xbox’s continued struggles, and the growing role of AI in game development.Plus, a major moment for the show as Tim announces his departure from the physical podcast after more than 70 episodes.

Netflix acquiring Warner Bros might be the biggest entertainment industry shake-up in years — and the ripple effects could permanently change gaming, streaming, and how major IPs are handled going forward.In Episode 72 of Press Start Select Podcast, we break down what this deal could mean for DC, Mortal Kombat, HBO, and WB Games, why it feels like both a power move and a panic move, and whether this level of consolidation is actually healthy for the industry.We also talk about Digimon’s unexpected resurgence with Time Stranger, honest thoughts on Marvel Cosmic Invasion and Bleach Rebirth of Souls, and why AAA gaming feels like it’s hitting a breaking point as Eastern developers continue to rise. Plus, we close out the episode with our Game Awards predictions, Sonic 3’s nomination snub, surprise trailer expectations, and a deeper conversation about nostalgia-driven franchises and anime power scaling chaos.If you’re into gaming industry conversations, anime debates, and watching the business side of entertainment collide with nostalgia, this episode delivers.

Valve just shook the gaming industry. In this episode of Press Start Select, we break down the newly announced Steam Machine, a $500–$700 console-style PC targeting early 2026. With PS5-level performance, full access to the Steam library, and potential hardware upgrades, this device could disrupt the entire console market—and put real pressure on Xbox’s long-term strategy.We also dive into broader industry stories, including:Why Arc Raiders found success after a rough startThe real reason live-service games failHow bad netcode kills fighting gamesSony’s confusing approach to a Horizon MMOMarvel Rivals expanding with Gambit and RogueNintendo’s rushed gaming-movie plansPlus: our full Game Awards 2025 predictions—from Best Fighting Game to Game of the Year—and a reality check on Kingdom Hearts 4.Whether you're interested in hardware, live-service trends, fighting games, or industry strategy, this episode covers one of the biggest potential shifts in gaming’s future.Chapters00:00 Intro00:46 Arc Raiders Success08:40 Live Service Longevity13:29 What Kills Fighting Games17:47 Sony’s Horizon MMO Problem37:25 Marvel Rivals: Gambit & Rogue49:34 Nintendo’s Movie Problems01:00:00 Steam Machine Announced01:16:25 Steam Machine Success Factors01:27:09 Best Fighting Game – Predictions01:41:05 Best RPG – Predictions01:56:59 Game of the Year Predictions02:11:41 Surprise Trailer Predictions02:18:05 Kingdom Hearts 4 Reality Check

What are the 10 games that define you as a gamer? In this episode, Antonius (DaGamer) walks through the titles that shaped his tastes, values, and expectations—from the timeless adventure of Pokémon Silver to the peak fighting game design of Ultra Street Fighter IV.This is more than nostalgia. It’s the blueprint of why older gamers expect so much from modern titles. Antonius breaks down how:Pokémon Silver taught strategy and worldbuildingSuper Smash Bros. brought childhood imagination to lifeFinal Fantasy VII proved games could deliver A-tier storytellingNBA Street Vol. 2 redefined sports games with style and creativityBatman: Arkham City set a standard for perfect action-adventure designWe explore genre-defining sequels, unforgettable soundtracks, and why the late ’90s to mid-2000s era set expectations that still shape gaming discussions today. Whether you grew up in gaming’s golden age or want to understand why older gamers are so critical of modern releases, this episode lays out the foundation.Chapters00:00 Intro00:11 Pokémon Silver04:30 Super Smash Bros.07:58 Final Fantasy VII12:46 Kingdom Hearts II19:08 NBA Street Vol. 225:03 Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 329:20 Batman: Arkham City33:12 Def Jam: Fight for New York36:03 Marvel vs. Capcom39:29 Ultra Street Fighter IV44:05 Why These Games Matter46:01 Outro

What are the 10 games that define you as a gamer? In this Super SSS Rank episode of Press Start Select, Jorry breaks down the titles that shaped his identity—from the competitive chaos of Super Smash Bros. to the cinematic impact of Metal Gear Solid 4 and the emotional weight of Mass Effect 2.We explore legendary action games, iconic shooters, and unforgettable RPG moments, including:- Precision mastery in Ninja Gaiden- Weapon-based combat depth in Soulcalibur II- Why Gears of War changed co-op gaming- How story, mechanics, and nostalgia shape lifelong gaming tastesThis episode is a celebration of the games that mold us: the ones we return to, learn from, and carry with us as players.Chapters00:00 Intro01:02 Super Smash Bros.05:08 Devil May Cry 315:17 Halo: Combat Evolved26:19 Ninja Gaiden31:08 Soulcalibur II36:52 Mass Effect 240:58 Metal Gear Solid 447:12 Zelda: Ocarina of Time50:29 Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance52:45 Gears of War55:12 Summary

GTA 6 has been pushed to November 2026 — but the delay isn’t the real story. In this episode of Press Start Select, we dig into what’s actually happening inside Rockstar Games, why the gaming industry is shifting in 2025, and how GTA 6 is facing expectations no studio can realistically deliver on.We break down how the modern gaming landscape has changed since GTA 5, the rise of massive player backlogs, the economics behind $70 releases, and the pressure studios face as development timelines stretch longer than ever. From union concerns at Rockstar to widespread industry layoffs, we explore why this GTA delay signals something much bigger.We also shift to anime news and discuss the Chainsaw Man movie (Reze Arc), the growing animation quality crisis, the disappointing rollout of One Punch Man Season 3, and why top studios like MAPPA are setting impossible production standards. Plus: how “the Dragon Ball Z effect” impacts modern anime, why some manga struggle in adaptation, and what Demon Slayer continues to get right.Topics Covered:• GTA 6 delay & industry fallout• Gaming backlog problem in 2025• Nintendo Switch 2 sales trends• Palworld lawsuit updates• Square Enix layoffs & development issues• Chainsaw Man movie breakdown• Anime production challenges in 2025• OPM Season 3 concerns & manga vs. anime qualityFollow & Rate Press Start Select for weekly deep dives into gaming and anime culture.Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:39 GTA 6 Delayed to 202602:00 GTA 6 Delay Reaction03:02 Gaming Industry Problems 202504:31 Nintendo Switch 2 Sales06:38 Pokemon News08:06 Palworld Nintendo Lawsuit Update09:38 Will GTA 6 Be Good12:15 Gaming Backlog Problem16:26 Video Game Development Issues20:28 Square Enix Layoffs24:16 FF7 Rebirth Combat26:46 Crash Bandicoot on Netflix29:35 Captain America Black Panther Game Delayed36:15 Marvel Games 202538:03 Chainsaw Man Movie44:02 My Hero Academia Final Season50:54 Anime Animation Quality52:01 One Punch Man Season 354:12 Manga vs Anime55:48 Outro

Halo is officially coming to PlayStation — and Xbox fans are losing it. In this episode of Press Start Select Podcast, we break down why Microsoft is putting Halo on PS5, what it means for Xbox exclusives, and if this marks the end of the console war as we know it.We also get into Pokémon Legends Z-A’s surprising 5 million sales, One Piece going seasonal, and the wild Smash JT vs. Colin Moriarty debate that had gaming Twitter buzzing.Topics include:Halo’s PlayStation debut and Xbox’s “gaming everywhere” planThe emotional weight of Master Chief leaving homeWhy Xbox exclusives don’t matter anymorePokémon’s unstoppable success despite criticismOne Piece’s new seasonal formatSmash JT’s failed debate moment🎮 Tune in for unfiltered gaming talk, anime takes, and sharp humor — all from the Press Start Select Podcast.#Halo #Xbox #PlayStation #GamingPodcast #PressStartSelectPodcast #Pokémon #OnePiece

Pokémon Legends Z-A is shaping up to be yet another low-effort, bare-minimum entry from Game Freak—and we’re officially fed up. From cut content to weak visuals, this series is running purely on nostalgia fumes.In Episode 68 of the Press Start Select Podcast, we also break down whether Tekken 8 has completely lost its identity, debate if Ghost of Yotei really needed a four-year development cycle, and celebrate Battlefield 6’s massive comeback.CHAPTERS:00:00 – Intro & Podcast Kickoff 02:45 – Tekken 8’s Miary Zo Reveal 04:32 – “Gods and Monsters” Era: Is Tekken 8 Changing Too Much? 08:33 – Has Soulcalibur Been Absorbed Into Tekken? 12:19 – Should Tekken 9 Reboot the Entire Lore? 23:29 – Ghost of Yotei Launch Success & Tsushima Comparisons 24:07 – Did Ghost of Yote Really Need a 4-Year Development Cycle? 29:39 – Are Modern Sequels Taking Too Long for Too Little? 35:38 – The Cancelled Assassin’s Creed Civil War/Klan Uprising Game 40:59 – Why Are Nazis Acceptable Villains but the KKK Isn’t? 49:48 – Battlefield 6 Sells 7 Million Copies in One Week 59:42 – Ninja Gaiden 4 Discussion After Tomonobu Itagaki’s Passing 01:19:46 – Ally Xbox Handheld Critique 01:32:07 – Pokémon Legends Z-A 01:50:00 – Is Z-A Just a Test Run for a Live Service Pokémon Game? 02:01:44 – The Rumored Pokémon Roadmap: Winds, Waves & Future Legends 02:06:02 – How Spin-Offs Like Snap & Mystery Dungeon Could Fix Pokémon 02:25:28 – Closing Thoughts & Episode Wrap-Up

In this week’s episode of the Press Start Select Podcast, Antonius DaGamer and Mykale Smith dive deep into the chaos shaking up the gaming world. From Xbox’s $30 Game Pass price hike and its fading console identity, to Mortal Kombat 2’s movie missteps, the guys don’t hold back. They also unpack why Digimon might finally be stepping out of Pokémon’s shadow, and celebrate Sucker Punch’s success with Ghost of Tsushima and its well-earned sequel.A mix of spicy takes, real gamer insight, and nostalgic deep dives—perfect for listeners who live and breathe gaming culture.🎮 Topics include: Xbox’s future, Mortal Kombat 2’s downfall, Digimon vs. Pokémon, Sucker Punch’s evolution, and what’s next for PlayStation.Timestamp Chapters:00:00 – Xbox’s $30 Game Pass ProblemThe crew reacts to the Xbox Game Pass and console price hike — is Microsoft’s gaming model falling apart?06:45 – Xbox’s Identity Crisis & Future of ConsolesWhy Xbox feels lost in its own ecosystem, and what happens if they pivot away from hardware entirely.17:55 – Mortal Kombat 2 Movie & Fighting Game WoesMortal Kombat 2 delays, Tekken 8 backlash, and why Virtua Fighter might secretly be the comeback king.34:30 – Digimon vs. Pokémon: The Comeback No One Saw ComingDigimon’s revival across games and anime—and why Pokémon fatigue might finally be real.54:00 – Ghost of Tsushima 2 & Sucker Punch’s Winning FormulaCelebrating Sucker Punch’s rise, open-world polish, and why Ghost’s sequel proves PlayStation still gets it right.1:02:30 – Should Infamous Make a Comeback?Would Infamous work in today’s superhero-saturated gaming world, or should Sucker Punch leave it in the past?1:08:00 – Wrap-Up & Future of the IndustryFinal thoughts on the next era of gaming — sequels, reboots, and which studios still have that creative spark.#GamingPodcast #XboxGamePass #PlayStation #MortalKombat #Digimon #GhostOfTsushima #PressStartSelectPodcast

Xbox raised Game Pass prices to $30/month with minimal new content, and we're watching the brand collapse in real time. After years of believing in the comeback, we're officially retiring our Xbox consoles.In this episode, we break down Sony's State of Play, discuss the incredible Wolverine gameplay reveal, and explain why Xbox's recent decisions might be the final nail in the coffin for the console brand.TOPICS COVERED:- Sony State of Play highlights and new announcements- Marvel's Wolverine gameplay breakdown and casting discussion- Why Wolverine's character model is a problem- Xbox's $30 Game Pass disaster explained- How Xbox lost its brand identity- Why we're switching to PC gaming- The rise and fall of Xbox in one generationTIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Introduction00:34 - Sony State of Play Impressions15:28 - Marvel's Wolverine Gameplay47:46 - Xbox is Destroying Xbox1:07:56 - We're Retiring Xbox1:29:38 - Closing ThoughtsThis is Press Start Select - your weekly gaming podcast covering news, drama, and the hot takes you need to hear.Follow us for new episodes every week!

Antonius DaGamer, Mykale Smith, and Super SSS rank return after an unexpected hiatus with a packed episode 66! We apologize for the break and dive into Nintendo's 2025 villain era—analyzing their strategic Direct timing, the pricey Super Mario Galaxy ports, and the 2026 Mario movie tease. We debate Nintendo's disconnect, overpricing history, and Mario Tennis Fever concerns, while exploring digital ownership woes, Xbox's decline, and Metroid Prime 4’s open-world potential. Plus, nostalgia marketing, parenting battles, Pokémon controversies, and hot takes on Hollow Knight, Sega, and Demon Slayer. Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome & Apology for Hiatus02:41 - Nintendo’s Heel Turn and Direct Timing Strategy04:13 - Mario Galaxy Re-release & Pricing Debate06:56 - Is Nintendo Out of Touch? Port vs. Remaster Discussion08:38 - Nintendo’s History of Overpricing11:50 - Digital Ownership & Consumer Frustration16:18 - Mario Tennis Fever & Spinoff Problems19:38 - Marketing Nostalgia to Parents23:51 - Metroid Prime 4: Open World Concerns32:40 - Yoshi and the Mysterious Book40:18 - Virtual Boy Attachment Returns44:32 - Pokémon Pokopia Discussion49:51 - Pokémon Legends: Z-A DLC Backlash51:51 - One City Setting & Regression Concerns1:04:57 - Nintendo’s Summoning Patent1:15:21 - Hollow Knight: Silk Song’s Fair Pricing1:28:37 - Ghost of Tsushima Dev Fallout1:48:55 - Is Sega Back?2:12:22 - One Piece Live Action Casting2:16:06 - Minority Hunter Zoro Discussion2:23:44 - Demon Slayer Breaks Pokémon’s Record2:29:26 - Demon Slayer Flashbacks Debate

Nintendo blocked a charity speedrun event (57:35), Fortnite brought back Mighty Morphin Power Rangers again (00:37), and Sony is taking Tencent to court over a Horizon Zero Dawn clone (51:30).We break down why Nintendo keeps stepping on its own goodwill, whether Fortnite’s MMPR collab is peak nostalgia or peak laziness, and how Sony’s lawsuit could set a big precedent in gaming.Plus, we dig into Lost Souls Aside finally going gold (15:30), Mafia: The Old Country’s mixed reception (23:29), Ninja Gaiden 4’s new protagonist (37:16), Warner Bros.’ live service addiction (1:08:25), and more anime/game news from Demon Slayer: Hinokami 2 (1:26:57), Marvel Rivals adding Blade (1:41:19), Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 hype (1:53:42), and Gundam Wing’s 30th Anniversary (2:07:39

EVO 2025 was anything but quiet this year. The Press Start Select crew dives into the biggest reveals and surprises: Marvel Tokon Fighting Souls’ first real showcase, Virtua Fighter’s jaw-dropping return, Tekken 8’s newest fighter causing community debates, Guilty Gear Strive adding Lucy from Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, and Street Fighter 6’s… summer bikini DLC.From hype reveals to salty takes, this episode covers the market conditions of the FGC right now.🎮 Follow Press Start Select Podcast for gaming, anime, and pop culture commentary every week.CHAPTERS:00:00 – Intro00:55 – EVO Overall Impressions04:18 – Marvel Tokon Fighting Souls: First Impressions & Concerns21:59 – Virtua Fighter’s Return & Community Reactions29:47 – Tekken 8’s New Fighter & Roster Changes49:59 – Guilty Gear Strive: Lucy Joins the Fight52:00 – Street Fighter 6’s Summer DLC & C. Viper Reveal

🎙️ Press Start Select Podcast Ep 64This week, Antonius and Tim go all in on gaming industry burnout — and the companies fueling it. We break down Ubisoft’s investor call meltdown, the real reason Star Wars Outlaws failed, and how the Assassin’s Creed Netflix show might be their last shot at relevance.We also talk Splitgate 2’s shutdown, the ridiculous pricing of Outer Worlds 2, and the constant pressure gamers face from live service design and login rewards.Later, we debate whether God of War should end before it burns out like Pokémon, Dragon Ball, or Uncharted. Oh, and yes — Dragonite's new design is not it.Then we dive into the ethics of gaming: anime game cash grabs, Death Battle fatigue, and the exploitation of charity through VTuber mismanagement. Plus, a heated take on adult game regulation and why some titles are setting the industry back.🕹️ Topics include:Ubisoft’s downfall and IP mismanagementSplitgate 2’s collapse & live service fatiguePokémon burnout and Legends Z-A critiquesGod of War’s future and IP overstretchingEthics in the gaming & anime communityNew episodes weekly. Subscribe and follow to stay updated on the wild world of games, anime, and pop culture.CHAPTERS:00:00:00 – Podcast Intro 00:01:30 – Assassin’s Creed Live-Action Netflix Series Reactions 00:09:28 – Ubisoft Blames Star Wars for Outlaws’ Failure 00:19:30 – Splitgate 2 on Life Support & Studio Confidence 00:25:53 – Outer Worlds 2 Walks Back $80 Price 00:33:00 – The $70 Game Problem & AAA Greed 00:36:20 – What Is a AAA Game in 2025? 00:38:10 – Open World Fatigue & Studio Oversaturation 00:39:45 – Studio Acquisitions & Ownership Fatigue 00:42:10 – God of War’s Future & A New Pantheon Perspective 00:47:50 – Franchise Burnout: Ending Pokémon, God of War & More 00:49:45 – Naughty Dog Remasters & The Uncharted Reboot Cycle 00:53:10 – Pokémon Direct Breakdown: Legends Z-A & Fan Fatigue 00:59:30 – Dragonite’s New Design & Visual Regression 01:06:15 – Pokémon Reboots, Real-Time Combat & Spin-Off Quality 01:12:57 – Yu-Gi-Oh Game Fatigue & Gacha Monetization 01:18:35 – Hunter x Hunter Nen System & Anime Game Gimmicks 01:21:00 – Why Hunter x Hunter Hasn’t Impacted Anime Games 01:26:13 – The Anime Game Cash Grab Era Returns 01:38:28 – Dragon Ball Z Oversaturation & Franchise Overuse 01:43:20 – Deku vs Miles & Death Battle’s Credibility Issues 01:45:13 – Manufactured Outrage in Anime Debates 01:50:25 – VTuber Scandals: VShojo, Charity Funds & Immunity Claims 02:01:39 – No More Horny Games? Adult Game Regulation Debate 02:07:25 – Mandatory Standards for Games & Content Ethics 02:11:00 – Gamer Fatigue & The Consumer’s Role 02:15:00 – Final Thoughts & Podcast Wrap-Up

Nintendo bricked a fan’s Switch 2 for using a secondhand game—and it sparked a larger conversation about anti-consumer behavior in modern gaming. We break it all down alongside thoughts on Ghost of Yotei’s gameplay reveal, sequel fatigue in franchises like Pokémon and Spider-Man, and the eternal question: why don’t we have a good Superman game yet?We also talk about:Fighting games losing identity to guest charactersMortal Kombat 2’s live-action trailer & adaptation issuesThe strange decline of Dragon Ball and My Hero’s hype🎙 Hosted by Antonius DaGamer, Mykale Smith, and Super SSS Rank💬 Press Start Select is a gaming podcast for millennial gamers, anime fans, and players who never put the controller down.🎮 Timestamps & Topics00:00 – Introduction: Press Start Select Podcast01:13 – Superman in Fortnite & Potential Superman Game16:00 – Secondhand Games & Nintendo's Policies18:20 – Companies Want Secondhand Market Non-Existent26:00 – Discussion on Nintendo Switch 2 Issues30:32 – Nintendo Japan's Key Card Surveys33:30 – Pokémon Direct & Future of the Franchise47:50 – The Bridge Between Generations in Pokémon56:31 – Ghost of Yotei Gameplay & Sequel-itis1:21:25 – Expectations for Sequels & Innovation1:37:21 – Capcom & Mega Man's Future1:48:00 – City Wolves Crossover & Fighting Game Roster Issues2:01:24 – Sagat's Street Fighter 6 Trailer2:18:40 – Mortal Kombat 2 Trailer & Movie Adaptations2:42:40 – Dragon Ball Super Manga Hiatus & Future3:02:15 – Super Dragon Ball Heroes Transformations3:20:13 – Conclusion

In Episode 62 of the Press Start Select Podcast, we kick things off with a tribute to PS360HD2, a YouTube pioneer who helped shape anime gaming content. Then we dive into the 10-year anniversary of Batman: Arkham Knight — did it deserve the backlash or was it ahead of its time?From there, we discuss Nintendo’s patch controversy in Mario Kart World, Xbox’s wave of layoffs and canceled games, and whether Phil Spencer’s leadership is working at all. We also explore Death Stranding 2, Druckmann’s return to directing, and the fading quality of anime-based games like My Hero Academia and Fist of the North Star.🔥 Plus: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, CGI anime misfires, and why “stop killing games” is the movement every player should support.🎧 New episodes weekly! Subscribe and hit that follow button if you're into anime, gaming, and brutally honest commentary.00:00 – Intro & Remembering PS360HD2 03:22 – Arkham Knight at 10: Retrospective & Fan Debate 22:20 – Nintendo's Mario Kart World Patch Backlash 33:29 – Can Nintendo Stay Ahead of Steam Deck & PC? 40:07 – Sonic’s Creator Prefers New Worlds Over Nostalgia 47:00 – Death Stranding 2 & Player Retention 51:15 – College Basketball Games Are Back (With WNBA?) 01:01:02 – Neil Druckmann Refocuses on Game Direction 01:17:05 – Xbox’s Ongoing Decline & Layoffs 01:21:24 – Game Pass & Phil Spencer's Leadership 01:43:29 – Perfect Dark, Fable & Mismanagement Fallout 01:48:07 – Rebranding to “Microsoft Gaming”? 02:13:30 – Stop Killing Games: A Player Movement 02:31:36 – Fighting Games Go Multiplatform 02:42:50 – Final Fantasy’s Modern Style vs. Classics 02:44:59 – My Hero Academia’s Gaming Falloff 02:58:30 – Fist of the North Star’s CGI Failure 03:09:30 – JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure’s Meme-Driven Success 03:17:31 – Closing Thoughts & What’s Next

In Episode 61 of the Press Start Select Podcast, Antonius DaGamer and Mykale Smith return with hot takes on the biggest stories in gaming. We kick things off with the $70 price tag for Borderlands 4 and whether the collector’s edition is worth the $150+ cost. Then we dive into Mind’s Eye and what its failure says about the state of open-world game development.From there, we break down Final Fantasy fatigue, the surprising momentum behind the Nintendo Switch 2, and what Nintendo’s Donkey Kong and Pauline announcements could mean for the future. We also discuss Xbox’s rumored handheld, the rise of live service burnout, and Warner Bros. splitting up its game studios.We close things out with some anime-fueled commentary: Dragon Ball’s future after Daima, and why the Pokémon anime might be the franchise’s weakest link compared to its manga.🎙️ Tap play and join the discussion!Chapters:00:00 Introduction00:56 Quick Thoughts on Showcases / Marvel vs. Capcom / Arc System Works Fighter05:06 Borderlands 4 Price Confirmation and Controversy11:20 Mind's Eye Game Release and Industry Problems21:24 Is Final Fantasy Falling Off?26:25 Nintendo Switch 2 Sales and Content Creators35:48 Donkey Kong Bonanza Nintendo Direct44:59 Xbox Handheld Partnership and Pricing57:18 Sony & Microsoft Focusing on Next-Gen Hardware01:03:30 Stellar Blade: The New Bayonetta?01:08:15 Warner Brothers Games Divisional Restructure01:25:32 Charlotte from Dragon Ball Legends in Sparking Zero01:40:50 Marathon Game Indefinite Delay01:58:37 Predator: Killer of Killers Animated Film02:00:30 Pokémon Anime vs. Manga02:20:31 Outro

Welcome to Press Start Select Episode 60! We're diving deep into the biggest gaming announcements from the most recent Sony State of Play, Xbox Showcase, and Summer Games Fest. Get our raw takes on the Metal Gear Solid 3 Remake, controversial Resident Evil 9 reveal, the exciting Marvel Tokon fighter, and so much more!What were your favorite announcements or biggest disappointments from the recent showcases? Let us know in the comments below! Don't forget to LIKE this video, SUBSCRIBE for more in-depth gaming discussions, and hit the notification bell so you don't miss our next episode!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro 00:00:51 - Digital Showcases: The New Summer Standard 00:02:43 - Sony State of Play: General Thoughts & Console Cycle 00:07:30 - Metal Gear Solid 3 Remake: Missed Opportunity & Budget Concerns 00:18:11 - Digimon Time Stranger: Gameplay & Combat Mechanics 00:22:48 - Nioh 300:30:31 - Mortal Kombat Legacy Collection00:36:36 - Hot Shot Golf & Niche Sony IPs 00:38:20 - Thief VR & The Challenges of VR Gaming 00:43:03 - 007 First Light00:52:53 - Marvel Tokon Fighting Souls: Anime Style & Roster Hopes01:22:47 - Summer Games Fest: Geoff Keighley's Role in Gaming Events 01:33:29 - Sonic Racing Crossworlds & Crossover Fatigue 01:36:30 - Scott Pilgrim Game & Netflix Anime Reception 01:38:59 - Deadpool VR 01:43:22 - Marvel Cosmic Invasion 01:45:30 - Onimusha: New Trailer & Genre Evolution 01:51:41 - Ill (Zombie Game): Is Zombie Fatigue Real? 02:02:35 - Wu-Tang: Rise of the Deceiver02:05:52 - Street Fighter 6 Season 3 DLC 02:18:39 - Acts of Blood02:20:48 - Sega's Project Sentry: "Strangers in Heaven" Revealed 02:22:22 - Resident Evil 9 Reveal02:40:21 - Xbox Showcase: Production Quality & Overall Impressions 02:41:03 - Final Fantasy Lands on Xbox: A Major Shift 02:45:20 - Grounded 2: Unique Concept & Insect Horror 02:50:06 - Fallout Fishing Game: An Unexpected Spin-off 02:52:20 - Aphelion: "Uncharted in Space" or Tomb Raider Deja Vu? 02:55:38 - Ninja Gaiden 4: New Protagonist & Ryu Hayabusa's Future 03:00:03 - Clockwork Revolution: Steampunk Appeal & IP Blurring 03:02:48 - Invincible Fighting Game: Competent but Controversial? 03:09:48 - Xbox Handheld & $80 Games: The Game Pass Strategy 03:17:34 - The Future of Gaming: Subscription Services & Physical Media 03:26:51 - Outro & Final Remarks#StateOfPlay #XboxShowcase #SummerGamesFest #GamingPodcast #GamingNews

Borderlands 4 is already under fire before launch thanks to Randy Pitchford’s controversial “real fans” comment about the game’s $80 price tag. Meanwhile, Sony continues to struggle with its live service push as Fairgames faces internal shake-ups and Marathon seems dead on arrival. And to top it off, EA has canceled its long-rumored Black Panther game after four years of development.We break down the industry drama, question the direction of Sony’s first-party strategy, and explore what went wrong with Black Panther's development cycle.🔔 If you're a fan of honest, funny, and passionate gaming commentary, hit that Subscribe button and join the Press Start Select community today!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro and Return of the Full Trio 00:50 - Randy Pitchford’s $80 Controversy 02:45 - Borderlands 4 and “Real Fans Will Pay” 05:00 - Is Borderlands 4 Already in Trouble? 12:40 - Doom & Other IPs Being Treated Like DLC 16:00 - Sony’s Fairgames Shakeup & Marathon’s Demise 18:10 - Why PlayStation’s Live Service Games Keep Failing 20:00 - The Bungie Misconception & Nostalgia Misused 22:00 - Sony's Forgotten Studios and Missed Opportunities 24:15 - Helldivers 2: The Right Way to Do Live Service 26:10 - Why Not Expand Ghost of Tsushima or Days Gone? 30:55 - The Fool’s Gold Rush of Live Service Gaming 37:15 - When Will Sony Finally Learn From Its Mistakes? 39:10 - EA Cancels the Black Panther Game After 4 Years 41:00 - What Killed the Black Panther Game? 42:45 - The Problem with Surface-Level Representation 45:00 - Black Panther Had Massive Potential as a Game 48:20 - Developers Need to Be From the Culture They're Representing 50:00 - Final Thoughts on Black Panther Game Cancellation 51:15 - Technical Issues & Why This Episode Cut Off Early #Borderlands4 #SonyLiveService #BlackPantherGame #PlayStationNews #GamingPodcast

GTA 6 just got delayed again, Xbox is raising console prices, and Nintendo is cracking down on modding—has gaming officially lost the plot? In this episode of the Press Start Select Podcast, we break down Rockstar’s GTA 6 trailer, Microsoft's confusing strategy, and why Nintendo's anti-consumer moves are pushing fans away. We also dive into the growing trend of backlog gaming and the rising cost of staying current. Plus, we touch on the legacy and wild genius of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure and how its influence continues across anime and gaming.🎮 What's your take on the state of modern gaming and anime?👍 Like, 💬 comment, and 🔔 subscribe for more weekly hot takes and discussions!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction00:33 - GTA 6 Trailer Reactions & Expectations18:21 - Xbox Price Hike & Strategy Shift44:28 - Nintendo's Stance on Modding/Piracy58:24 - Tekken 8 Season 2 Disappointment01:13:45 - Final Fantasy Series Discussion01:22:55 - Sega & Virtua Fighter's Potential01:29:30 - Marathon Controversy & Predicted Failure01:59:32 - Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run Announcement02:33:11 - Closing Remarks#GTA6 #XboxSeriesX #NintendoSwitch2 #JoJosBizarreAdventure #GamingPodcast

🎮 In Episode 58 of the Press Start Select Podcast, we dive into the GTA 6 delay and price controversy, break down Tekken 8’s recycled DLC backlash, and discuss Sony seemingly replacing Sackboy with Astrobot. We also explore Xbox's strange strategy shifts, potential Game Pass fatigue, and the surprising Virtual Fighter revival. If you're into next-gen gaming news, fighting games, and classic PlayStation nostalgia, this episode is for you.🔥 Topics include:GTA 6's $100 pricing rumorsTekken 8's Season 2 backlashSackboy being quietly removed by PlayStationXbox bringing Gears of War to PlayStationVirtual Fighter’s big returnWhy Game Pass might not last📺 Watch the full episode and join the conversation in the comments!👍 Like, 💬 comment, and 🔔 subscribe for more weekly gaming deep dives from the Press Start Select Podcast!#GTA6 #Tekken8 #Sackboy #Astrobot #VirtuaFighter #PlayStation #Xbox #GamingPodcast #PressStartSelectPodcastChapters:00:00 Intro: Press Start Select Podcast - Red Version Begins00:33 Explaining the New Podcast Format (Red/Blue Editions)01:02 Diving into Gaming Big News01:12 Grand Theft Auto 6 Delay Confirmed13:07 Nintendo Switch 2 Still Sold Out Despite Complaints17:03 Predicting the Future of DLC18:18 Disappointment with Tekken 8 Season 1 & 2 Reveals25:55 Virtual Fighter News: New Character Design & Guest Speculation32:58 Uncertainty Around Mortal Kombat 1 Content (Combat Pack 3?)33:51 Guest Characters Are Getting Out of Hand in Fighting Games36:07 PlayStation Studios Removing Sack Boy from Promotions46:25 Discussing Xbox's Recent Moves54:36 Gears of War 1 Remastered: Milking the Franchise?57:36 Mafia: The Old Country Gameplay Reveal01:02:58 The Importance of a Lived-In World (Batman Arkham Example)01:03:44 Anime and Manga Discussion

Sony drops a Ghost of Yotei Trailer with minimal hype, Xbox gambles on nostalgia with an Oblivion remake, and Game Pass continues its' shift. We also react to Clair Obscur Expedition 33’s indie rise, the emotional divide in The Last of Us Season 2, and the wild Luffy vs. Kizaru fight in One Piece.🎮 For more raw, unfiltered gaming and anime breakdowns, subscribe now and join the conversation!00:00:00 Intro00:00:48 Discussing Ghost of Yotei's Strange Reveal00:15:50 Xbox's Oblivion Remake & Shadow Drop Strategy00:17:13 The Value Proposition of Xbox Game Pass00:37:11 The Industry's "Scorched Earth" Mindset00:40:43 Switch 2 Hype & FOMO Despite Price Concerns00:58:27 Nintendo's Game Card Firmware & Sharing Limitations01:03:31 Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves Reception01:16:51 Fighting Game Stories Are Easy01:20:15 Tekken Does Not Understand Itself01:33:02 Street Fighter 6 Elena is Back01:38:34 The Last of Us Season 2 Discussion Begins01:39:28 Does HBO Think They Have a Walking Dead?01:43:45 One Piece Luffy vs Kizaru01:53:00 Kizaru vs. Kaido: Different Types of Opponents01:57:40 Luffy's Freedom & Gear Five's Potential for Growth02:15:33 Closing Statements#ghostofyotei #OblivionRemake #XboxGamePass #clairobscurexpedition33 #LastOfUsSeason2 #OnePieceAnime #LuffyVsKizaru #PS5Games #IndieGames #GamingPodcast #AnimeTalk #pressstartselectpodcast

In this episode of Press Start Select, Antonius DaGamer, Super SSS Rank, and Mykale Smith dive into the hottest gaming and anime topics of the week. They kick things off with the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal, breaking down its rumored price, PS4-level specs, and what it means for the future of Nintendo games. The conversation then shifts to Marvel Rivals and the Emma Frost design backlash, unpacking fan reactions and ongoing debates around representation in games. Next up, the team tackles Bungie’s upcoming Marathon reboot—sharing real concerns about the game's direction and Bungie’s current trajectory. The episode wraps with an in-depth review of the Tekken 8 Season 2 roadmap and reactions to Netflix’s Devil May Cry anime adaptation, complete with honest takes on character choices and narrative risks.Whether you're a Switch fan, a Marvel enthusiast, or just love talking games and anime—this episode is packed with commentary you don’t want to miss.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction and Episode Overview02:13 - Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Direct05:42 - Thoughts on the New Design07:57 - Physical Cartridges vs. Digital Keys09:56 - Initial Positive Impressions15:47 - The Cost of AAA Games and Season Passes16:41 - Negative Reactions to Pricing Announcements19:40 - Nintendo's Baiting Tactics and FOMO27:26 - Predictions and Concerns about Nintendo's Future Strategy29:35 - Competition from Steam Deck and ROG Ally34:27 - Discussion about Controversial Content and "Snow Bunny Emma Frost"44:16 - Representation and Authenticity in Storytelling47:50 - Sexuality, Body Type, and Controversial Themes in Media51:58 - Initial Impressions and Artistic Style of "South of Midnight"55:39 - Discourse and Expectations Around "South of Midnight"57:54 - Reactions to Negative Comments and Online Toxicity01:06:10 - Discussion about "Marathon" and Bungie's Direction01:11:13 - "Marathon" as an Extraction Shooter and Fan Expectations01:35:58 - "Tekken 8" Season 2 and "Back to Formula"01:56:52 - The Storyline and Character Choices in "Tekken"02:06:49 - Suggestions for Fixing "Tekken" and the Season 2 Roadmap02:12:52 - "Devil May Cry" Anime Discussion - Initial Thoughts02:18:14 - Cons and Pros Regarding Lady's Character in the Anime02:27:27 - Shared Universe Easter Eggs and Tone02:32:23 - Comparing the Anime to the Game Series02:42:01 - Closing Thoughts on the "Devil May Cry" Anime#nintendoswitch2 #marvelrivals #bungie #tekken8 #devilmaycry #netflixanime #pressstartselect #gamingpodcast #animepodcast #emmafrost #gamersunite

Welcome to another episode! We're diving deep into the week's biggest gaming news and throwing in some nostalgic goodness for good measure. This week, we're celebrating the 20th anniversary of God of War! Join us as we discuss Kratos' legacy and even touch on the rumors of a potential story set in Greece.But it's not all looking back! We're also tackling some of the big questions facing PlayStation. Is there cause for concern with the future of PS5's first-party exclusives, especially with Naughty Dog's upcoming title seemingly further out? We share our thoughts on the current state of PlayStation's lineup and what might be next.Over in the Nintendo sphere, we break down the latest Nintendo Direct. What can we expect from the Switch 2, and are the announced Switch games a good sign? We share our hopes and concerns for Nintendo's next console. And for the monster-collecting fans, we're talking Pokemon – has the franchise lost its way? Finally, we celebrate the 25th anniversary of Digimon with nostalgic memories and reflections on what made it special.What are your thoughts on these topics? Let us know in the comments below! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more gaming discussions and insights!CHAPTERS:0:00 - Intro and Podcast News1:00 - Gaming Big News: God of War 20th Anniversary23:55 - PlayStation First-Party Concerns and Naughty Dog40:59 - Guest Characters in Fighting Games52:11 - Grummz and the Ratio1:11:57 - Nintendo Direct and Switch 2 Expectations1:40:55 - Back to Formula: Pokémon Legends ZA Disappointment1:55:56 - PSS Approved: Digimon 25th Anniversary2:03:56 - Otaku Insights: First Experiences with Digimon2:27:59 - Closing Thoughts and Outro

In this episode, Antonius DaGamer and Super SSS Rank revisit the nostalgic challenge of classic Monster Hunter, debate whether Assassin’s Creed Shadows can live up to the legacy of Ghost of Tsushima, and explore gaming trends—from comparing new titles to established giants and the impact of female protagonists, to the rising appeal of cozy experiences versus intense gameplay, and what truly makes an anime game stand out. Note: Technical difficulties led to an abrupt ending, but the conversation remains packed with thoughtful commentary.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup01:03 Monster Hunter Wilds Initial Impressions17:29 Gaming Big News Segment Introduction17:42 Assassin's Creed Shadows Early Access and Reviews22:08 Discussion on Yasuke's Historical Accuracy and Controversy25:53 Past Historical Inaccuracies in Assassin's Creed26:29 The "Problem" with Yasuke Being Real31:23 The Impact of Bad Writing33:01 Comparing Games to Benchmarks in Their Genres34:55 The Trend of "Wokeness" and Extreme Reactions38:55 Issues with Talent and Creative Direction in Larger Companies43:58 Comparing Assassin's Creed to Other Genre Leaders50:52 Revisiting Assassin's Creed Shadows' Performance Later51:03 Overall Impression of Assassin's Creed Shadows 55:07 Discussion on Female Character Representation in Games64:41 The Pendulum Swing in Cultural Trends66:28 The Importance of Nuance in Criticism74:09 The Rise of Cozy Games83:47 Potential Pushback on "Gameplay Over Story" Sentiment90:16 Donkey Kong Country Returns and Memorable Gameplay Moments92:14 Immersion and Transition to Anime Games Discussion93:03 What Makes a Good Anime Game?109:36 Back to Formula112:40 Critiques of Assassin's Creed Shadows and the Motivation Behind Them115:56 - The Significance of Accountability and Acknowledging Mistakes119:54 - Agreeing with Valid Points While Disagreeing with Delivery122:55 - Concluding Thoughts on Critique, Isolation, and Authenticity124:02 - Doubling Down on Personal Opinions (Death Stranding Example)125:56 - "Back to Formula" Segment Conclusion126:08 - Podcast Outro and Apology for Technical Difficulties#MonsterHunter #AssassinsCreedShadows #GhostofTsushima #Ubisoft #AnimeGames #GamingPodcast #VideoGames #CozyGames #GamingNews #PressStartSelect #pressstartselectpodcast #psspodcast

Alright, let's talk gaming! This week we're discussing some of the biggest questions and debates in the industry. First up: Is Xbox about to shake things up with a handheld? We're looking at what that could mean for Microsoft and whether it's a smart move in today's market. Then, it's the weird and wonderful world of Hideo Kojima and Death Stranding 2. Is it a work of art, or is it just too out there for its own good? We're not sure, but we're excited to discuss. Capcom has been the comeback king of the legacy publishers lately. Are they back on top of their game, or do they have something to prove? And what about The Last of Us? Do we need a Part 3? We're weighing the pros and cons. Finally, we're wrapping up with a look at the world of anime games, asking if titles like Bleach: Rebirth of Souls and the new Baki game can truly stand out from the crowd and offer something new. We're digging into the tensions between creative visions and corporate demands, the impact of nostalgia on the industry, and trying to figure out where gaming is headed next. Join the conversation and let us know what YOU think in the comments! CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Intro: Gaming News and Controversies 0:48 - Xbox Handheld Rumors: Microsoft's Strategy? 4:52 - Corporate Influence in Gaming 16:27 - Microsoft's Vision: Snippets and Inconsistency 21:20 - GTA 6 Pricing and Industry Trends 26:16 - Hideo Kojima and Death Stranding 2: Genius or Madness? 39:50 - Kojima: Movie Maker? 42:10 - The Last of Us Part 3: Is it Needed? 51:59 - Capcom's Revival: Firing on All Cylinders? 58:57 - Mega Man Discussion 1:03:15 - Dino Crisis Discussion 1:11:49 - Bleach: Rebirth of Souls: Anime Game Analysis 1:19:04 - Baki Hanma: Blood Arena: Disappointment? 1:27:15 - Dragon Ball: Has it Lost Its Way? 1:39:50 - Letting Go of Childhood Favorites 1:55:28 - Outro and Community Support #GamingNews #XboxHandheld #DeathStranding2 #HideoKojima #DragonBall #StreetFighter6 #Capcom #TheLastOfUs #BleachRebirthOfSouls #AnimeGames #NostalgiaGaming #VideoGames #yugioh #pressstartselectpodcast #psspodcast #gamingpodcast

The fellas are back and discussing the gaming industry's biggest challenges! We break down the Ubisoft & WB Games crises, Assassin's Creed leaks, Tekken 8 controversies, and the Dragon Ball anime debate. Is live service killing our favorite games? Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 0:58 - Assassin's Creed Shadows Leak 4:18 - Ubisoft's Troubles 11:42 - WB Games in Crisis: Damage Control Needed 53:17 - Tekken 8 Season 2: Anna's Return 1:11:30 - Live Service Games: Chasing Explosive Growth 1:27:51 - Anime Game Adaptations: Expansion and Growth 1:32:27 - Pokémon Day Disappointment: Lackluster Reveals 1:47:15 - PalWorld could become a threat 1:56:16 - Dragon Ball Daima: Was it a waste? 2:14:31 - Outro: Final Thoughts & Disappointments #gaming #ubisoft #assassinscreed #tekken8 #dragonball #wbgames #liveservice #anime #gamingnews #gamer #videogames #pressstartselectpodcast #psspodcast

Dive into this week's gaming controversies and news! We're breaking down the PSN outage and Sony's State of Play "disappointment" Is Call of Duty going too far with Fortnite-style crossovers and celebrity skins? Plus, we discuss Dragon Ball Super: Daima and the return of Super Saiyan 4—is it a hit or a miss? Tune in for all the hot takes! CHAPTERS: Intro: [00:00] Insomniac Games and Resistance 4: [0:37-3:43] Pokémon Day Rumors: [9:02-14:22] Monster Hunter Wilds Beta: [20:31-24:55] Gaming Big News: [25:07] Call of Duty Skins and Guest Characters: [25:26-31:20] PSN Outage and Sony's Communication: [33:08-36:35] Sony State of Play Discussion: [36:35-47:25] Digimon Crossover: [58:37-1:01:09] Grand Theft Auto Cyberpunk: [1:10:09-1:12:29] Dreams of Another: [1:16:04-1:17:15] Back To Formula: [1:35:50] PSS Approved: [1:48:23] Otaku Insights: [1:59:14] Super Saiyan 4 in Dragon Ball Daima: [1:59:20-2:14:32] Universally Loved Transformations in Shonen: [2:32:59] #gamingnews #insomniacgames #resistance4 #playstation #pokemon #pokemonday #monsterhunterwilds #callofduty #psn #stateofplay #digimon #gta #grandtheftauto #cyberpunk #dragonballdaima #supersaiyan4 #anime #shonenanime #gamingpodcast #videogames #pressstartselectpodcast

Join the Press Start Select crew as they celebrate their 50th episode with a deep dive into the latest gaming news, anime updates, and more. This milestone episode features a new format with dedicated segments for easy navigation.Key topics include:•Xbox's Future: The hosts discuss the potential of a new Xbox console, its place in the market amidst multiplatform releases, and the challenges it faces. They explore whether innovative features like enhanced content creation and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot could boost sales. The group also touches on the economic factors impacting Xbox and its place in the console market.•Sony's State of Play: The podcast analyzes the rumors surrounding the upcoming Sony showcase, discussing possible game reveals and the pressure on Playstation to deliver new and exciting content. They speculate on potential titles, the future of live-action adaptations and the need for new IPs and not just remasters.•The "Back to Formula" Segment: This segment critiques recent missteps in the gaming industry, including poorly optimized PC ports, and EA's struggle with yearly sports releases. The team discusses the need for companies to return to their roots, using classic game design principles as inspiration. They also discuss BioWare's struggles and the future of the Mass Effect franchise and Warner Brother's issues with its IPs.•"PSS Approved" : Ninja Gaiden's Return: The hosts share their excitement for the new Ninja Gaiden installment and the potential of this franchise and its unique combat. They discuss how the game is combining classic elements with modern gameplay mechanics.•Otaku Insights: The crew dives into the world of anime and manga, including a spoiler discussion of One Piece and Shanks' family. They examine the current state of Dragon Ball, particularly the Daima series, and debate its overall direction and missed opportunities. They consider the merits of fan projects and whether they are derivative or new.•Community Comment Corner: The hosts answer questions from their audience about fan animation projects and discuss their value to franchises.CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro 02:40 Forza Horizon Coming To PS5 14:00 Can Xbox Bounce Back with a New Console? 26:00 Rumored Sony State of Play 39:00 Kratos God of Egypt 59:40 BACK TO FORMULA 1:05:00 Bioware 1:13:00 No More Multiversus Sparking Zero DLC 1:20:001:29:36 PSS APPROVED 1:30:00 Ninja Gaiden 4 Trailer 1:40:20 OTAKU INSIGHTS 1:41:00 One Piece and Shank's Backstory 1:51:00 Dragon Ball Daima So Far 2:06:55 Community Comment Corner #GamingPodcast #Xbox #playstation #pressstartselectpodcast #StateofPlay #ConsoleGaming #Manga #anime

Welcome back to the Press Start Select Podcast in 2025! 🎮✨ After a holiday break filled with technical challenges, we're back with brand-new topics and fresh energy! In this episode, we dive deep into: Marvel Rivals: A roster-packed launch that's redefining multiplayer gaming! 🚀 MK1 and Conan the Barbarian: Ed Boon's bucket list or just chaos in gaming? Live-service letdowns: What's behind Sony's cancellations, including the Horizon MMO and God of War live-service experiments? Nintendo Switch 2: Will it live up to the hype, and what games are we hoping for? And much more, including the latest on Xbox's shift to third-party strategies, the state of Warner Bros., and the industry's ongoing search for innovation in gaming. 🎙️ Time Stamps: 00:00 - The Press Start Select Podcast Returns for 2025! 4:07 - Marvel Rivals’ 33-Character Roster: Genius or Overkill? 7:02 - MK1 Adds Conan the Barbarian: Ed Boon’s Bucket List? 10:00 - Warner Bros. Cancellations: What Happens to Legacy IPs? 12:30 - What’s Next for WB Games After Suicide Squad’s Cancellation? 16:00 - Sony’s Cancelled Games: God of War and Horizon MMO Failures 20:00 - Could Spider-Man: The Great Web Have Been Sony’s Best Live Service Game? 21:45 - Horizon Zero Dawn MMO: A Cancelled Opportunity or Bullet Dodged? 23:30 - Why Aloy’s World Struggles to Connect With Fans 32:15 - Xbox’s Identity Crisis: Are They Just a Third-Party Publisher Now? 35:45 - Why Xbox Players Feel Betrayed by Microsoft’s Latest Moves 37:30 - Can Xbox Stay Competitive Without Exclusive Games? 39:15 - Game Pass: Is It Sustainable for Microsoft’s Future? 41:00 - Why Microsoft’s Vision for Gaming May Be a Double-Edged Sword 46:28 - Is PC Gaming Too Complicated for the Average Person? 47:28 - PC vs Console: The Accessibility Debate 48:31 - Why Consoles Make Sense for Families with Kids 50:22 - Why Microsoft Struggles with Branding and Presence 52:08 - Why Sony & Microsoft Are Behind Nintendo's Innovation 54:07 - Nintendo Switch 2: Is It Just a Bigger, More Powerful Switch? 54:47 - ‘Super Nintendo Switch’ Would’ve Been a Better Name Nintendo Switch 2 Accessories: Are Gimmicks the Future? - 56:08 56:56 - Are Graphics at Their Peak? How the Switch 2 Might Challenge the Status Quo 58:05 - Goodbye Switch 1: Why I’m Ready for the Switch 2's Performance Boost 58:36 - Will the Switch 2 Compete with the Steam Deck? 59:43 - Nintendo’s Long-Term Gamble: Will the Switch 2 Survive Without Top-Tier Performance? 1:02:04 - Nintendo's Secret Weapon: Could a F-Zero’s Open World Destroy the Competition? 1:03:05 - Will Nintendo Revive Lost Franchises for the Switch 2? 1:06:00 - Big Game Publishers Are Struggling 1:14:20 – Marvel Rivals: A Marvel Game That Feels Like Overwatch? 1:15:31 – Marvel Rivals vs. Avengers: Why It’s the Game We Always Wanted 1:16:32 – Marvel Rivals' Free-to-Play Success: What Makes It Stand Out? 1:17:56 – How Marvel Rivals Is Changing the Future of Comic Game Design 1:19:04 – Wolverine’s Realistic Approach: Will It Compete with Marvel Rivals? 1:23:14 – Marvel Rivals: Can Monthly Character Drops Keep Players Coming Back? 1:24:00 – Fixing Marvel Rivals: How the Game Needs to Balance Tanks, Duelists, and Healers 1:25:29 - The Truth About Balancing Choices in Video Games: Why You Can't Have It All 1:32:06 - The Western Gaming Struggle: Why Big Teams Fail While Smaller Ones Thrive 1:34:06 - The Power of Player Choice: Why Games Like Mass Effect Got It Right 1:35:17 - How Miyazaki's Storytelling Philosophy Revolutionized Gaming 1:36:00 - Phantom Blade Zero: A Solo Developer's Triple-A Dream 1:37:06 - East vs West in Gaming: Why Asia Dominates with Focused Vision #PressStartSelectPodcast #MarvelRivals #MK1 #NintendoSwitch2 #GamingPodcast #PS5 #Xbox #Nintendo

Antonius DaGamer, Super SSS Rank, and Mykale Smith start of this latest retrospect by diving into the ultimate 90s anime showdown: Digimon vs. Pokémon! 🚨 From Digimon's deeper storytelling and iconic movies to the quirks of its evolving characters and wild continuity, we explore what makes this series a nostalgic classic. Is the Digimon movie a masterpiece or a messy compilation? Let’s break down the animation, themes, and legacy that keep fans coming back! Chapters 00:00 Nostalgia and the 90s Anime Landscape 02:46 Digimon vs. Pokémon: A Battle of Narratives 05:52 The Digimon Movie: A Unique Compilation 09:07 Character Development and Themes in Digimon 11:55 Animation and Visual Storytelling 14:59 Slice of Life Elements in Digimon 18:09 The Evolution of Digimon and Its Characters 20:55 The Impact of the Movies on the Series 24:10 The Third Movie: A Shift in Focus 26:58 Canon and Continuity in Digimon 30:11 The Golden Digi Egg and Its Origins 31:08 Mega Forms and Their Impact 32:44 Villains and Their Evolution Lines 34:40 Mythological Influences in Digimon Designs 36:40 The Depth of Digimon's Storytelling 37:30 Animation Quality and Artistic Expression 39:10 Character Utilization and Development 41:37 The Legacy of Digimon in America 44:20 Final Thoughts on Character Use 49:24 Overall Movie Ratings and Comparisons #DigimonMovie #90sAnime #DigimonVsPokemon #AnimeNostalgia #DigimonAdventure #AnimeMovies #omnimon #omegamon #ourwargame #wargreymon #metalgarurumon #AnimeVillains #DigimonLegacy #pressstartselectpodcast #psspodcast

In this episode, Antonius DaGamer, Super SSS Rank, and Mykale Smith dive into minority representation in gaming and anime, tackling barriers to entry, community support, and inclusive storytelling. They reflect on the Game Awards, celebrating indie highlights and critiquing nominations, while discussing innovations in game design and guest characters in fighting games, including the missed potential of Tifa in Tekken. The trio also reacts to the Witcher 4 trailer, examines Naughty Dog's upcoming Intergalactic, and debates the balance between gameplay and cinematic experiences in earning player trust. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Housekeeping 01:50 Startup Capital and Representation in Game Development 05:30 Building Community and Support for Minority Studios 10:50 The BET Effect and Fragmented Communities 14:44 Racial Representation in Anime and Gaming 22:55 The Impact of Microaggressions in Media 29:33 Navigating Conversations on Racial Inequality 40:51 Reflections on the Game Awards 45:20 Reflecting on the Game Awards: Improvements and Critiques 49:01 The Importance of Game Awards in the Gaming Community 51:51 World Premieres: Anticipation and Expectations 53:08 Controversies in Game Nominations and Awards 56:35 The Impact of Game Direction on Player Experience 01:01:27 Reviving Classic IPs: The Future of Gaming 01:06:40 Innovations in Game Design: New Concepts and Ideas 01:12:01 The Role of Guest Characters in Fighting Games 01:19:00 The Future of Fighting Games: Legacy and New Directions 01:28:43 The Case for Tifa in Tekken 01:35:19 Guest Characters and Fan Expectations 01:41:21 The Witcher 4: Anticipation and Controversy 01:50:31 Naughty Dog's New Direction: Intergalactic 02:10:19 Reflections and Future Outlook #PressStartSelect #PSSPodcast #VideoGameAwards #VGA #WorldPremiere #BandaiNamco #NaughtyDog #PlayStationStudios #Witcher4 #AstroBot #Tekken8 #CliveRosfield #FinalFantasyXVI #TurokOrigins #IntergalaticTheHereticProphet #Palworld #EldenRing #ShadowLabyrinth #FightingGame #ActionAdventure #RPG #GOTY #SinglePlayer #Multiplayer

In this last DBZ Movie Special, Antonius DaGamer, Super SSS Rank and Mykale Smith dive into Dragon Ball Z: Fusion Reborn, unpacking its stunning animation, Janemba’s villainous brilliance, and its nostalgic impact on fans. They then move on to the Wrath of the Dragon, analyzing the character depth of Tapion, plot execution, and missed opportunities with Hirudegarn. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this discussion offers fresh insights into what makes a Dragon Ball movie unforgettable. Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:30 Fusion Reborn 09:48 Animation and Visual Appeal 19:00 Veku 21:20 Gogeta 24:00 Goku and Super Saiyan 3 30:30 Villain Analysis Janemba 48:00 Wrath of the Dragon 57:00 Tapion is Wack? 1:00:00 Underwhelming Hirudegarn #PressStartSelect #PSSPodcast #DragonBallZ #DragonBallSparkingZero #DragonBallSuper #DragonBallDaima #FusionReborn #WrathOfTheDragon #Goku #Vegeta #Gohan #Goten #KidTrunks #Gotenks #Pikkon #Tapion #Gogeta #Janemba #SuperJanemba #Hirudegarn #DBZVillains #DBZMovies #DBZCommunity #FusionDance #SuperSaiyan #SSJ #SSJ3

In this episode, Antonius DaGamer, Super SSS Rank, and Mykale Smith are fresh off of Holiday break and dive right into a variety of gaming topics. They discuss the upcoming Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind, the potential failure of the upcoming Indiana Jones and the Great Circle game, the struggles faced by Stalker 2's development team, and concerns about the future of Mortal Kombat 1, especially regarding its sales. The fellas also critique Horizon Zero Dawn, discussing its recent developments and concerns over its lackluster appeal to younger audiences, emphasizing the importance of deep character development and coherent narratives. The discussion then branches out to a broader analysis of gaming franchises and the need for thoughtful storylines. Lastly, they reflect on the legacy of Virtua Fighter and expectations for its future, particularly focusing on gameplay mechanics and online features. Chapters 00:00 Return from Holiday Break and Intro 01:21 Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind Discussion 10:00 Indiana Jones and the Great Circle 29:48 Stalker 2: Development Challenges and Consumer Expectations 41:09 Mortal Kombat 1: Sales and Future Speculations 45:57 MK1 Gameplay Mechanics and Character Selection Issues 49:29 Storytelling and Character Development in Mortal Kombat 57:09 Potential MK1 Storylines and Character Dynamics 01:01:57 Future of Mortal Kombat and Consumer Loyalty 01:10:20 The Impact of Guest Characters on Franchise Integrity 01:22:00 Horizon Zero Dawn: A Case Study in Misalignment 01:48:03 Virtua Fighter: A Legacy Revisited #Gaming #PowerRangers #IndianaJones #Stalker2 #MortalKombat #VideoGames #GameDevelopment #GamingNews #GameReviews #GamingCommunity #MortalKombat1 #GameplayMechanics #GuestCharacters #HorizonZeroDawn #HorizonFranchise #GamingCriticism #VirtuaFighter #GamingIndustryTrends #GameAnalysis #VideoGameTrends #GamerCulture #GamingDiscussion #GamingFranchises #GamingInsights #pressstartselectpodcast #psspodcast

In this episode, the fellas start the episode off by paying a much overdue tribute to the late Tony Todd. From there, they discuss the opening of the Donkey Kong themed expansion to Super Nintendo Land as well as Donkey Kong's place in modern gaming, and while questioning Nintendo’s approach to their Non Mario, Non Zelda IPs. The crew also breaks down the latest Mortal Kombat updates, including Ghostface's addition, as well as the latest Character Reveals in Bleach: Rebirth of Souls. From there they discuss Microsoft's latest marketing strategy, while examining Sony’s desire to compete with acquisitions. They also analyze the upcoming South of Midnight, its representation controversies, and the importance of authentic inclusion in media. Lastly, they discuss the biggest controversy with this year's Game Awards Nominations. Please make sure to Like, Comment, and Subscribe! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:58 Tribute to Tony Todd 05:50 The State of Donkey Kong in Gaming 12:08 Nintendo's Approach to IPs and Game Releases 19:50 Mortal Kombat Updates and Guest Characters 30:00 Reflections on Mortal Kombat's Direction 38:50 Bleach Rebirth of Souls Character Reveals 47:02 Sony's Strategic Moves in the Gaming Industry 50:20 The Importance of Competition in Gaming 56:29 The Future of Xbox: Challenges and Opportunities 01:14:07 The Future of Xbox and Game Pass 01:21:14 Microsoft's Identity Crisis in Gaming 01:30:06 South of Midnight: A New Era for Xbox 01:43:41 Controversies in Game Development and Representation 01:50:07 The Importance of Authentic Representation in Media 01:53:46 Criticism Without Solutions: A Frustration 01:56:38 The Duality of Character Diversity 02:00:27 Navigating the Gaming Industry's Challenges 02:10:47 The Need for Organic Inclusion in Storytelling 02:18:32 Game Awards: The Value of Nominations and Recognition #MortalKombat #TonyTodd #DonkeyKong #Xbox #GamePass #SouthOfMidnight #TheGameAwards #RepresentationInGaming #thisisanxbox #ghostface #grimmjow #bleachanime #bleachrebirthofsouls #grummz #markkern #mortalkombat1 #supernintendo #donkeykongcountry

In this episode of the Press Start Select Podcast, Antonius DaGamer, Mykale Smith, and Super SSS rank kick things off with the recent announcement of a live-action Mass Effect series and analyze what this adaptation could mean for fans and the franchise. The fellas then shift focus to Sparking Zero, discussing its performance and how it reflects broader trends in game quality and development. Another hot topic is Warner Brothers’ struggles with Multiversus, where they explore the game’s potential, its challenges, and the role of fan engagement in its future. That conversation then shifts to the overall focus of Warner Bros and their Gaming IPs, highlighting the impact of corporate decisions and microtransactions, while also advocating for a stronger focus on quality over sales. The conversation also critiques Sony’s heavy reliance on third-party titles and its implications for long-term consumer trust. Lastly, the fellas discuss the potential end of the PS5 console cycle, the importance of accountability in game development, and the nostalgia that past consoles bring. They round out the episode by sharing their excitement for anticipated games of the season and reflecting on how the gaming landscape continues to evolve. #GamingNews #MassEffectSeries #GameDevelopment #NextGenConsoles #VideoGames #GameIndustryTrends #PS5 #FanEngagement #Multiversus #PS5Pro #Playstation #SonyPlaystation #SparkingZero #WarnerBros #HogwartsLegacy #ArkhamSeries #Astrobot Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Positive Vibes 01:19 Mass Effect Live Action Series Announcement 16:02 Sparking Zero Player Drop and Game Dynamics 34:56 Warner Brothers and Multiverses Underperformance 38:16 The Decline of Game Quality and Aesthetics 41:10 Potential in Multiverses and Fan Engagement 46:16 Expectations of Success in the Gaming Industry 49:17 Sony's Reliance on Third-Party Titles 57:16 The Future of Gaming and Consumer Trust 01:17:16 Navigating the Numbers: The Role of Data in Gaming 01:18:37 The End of a Console Cycle: Reflections on the PS5 01:19:59 Learning from Mistakes: The Importance of Accountability in Game Development 01:21:24 The Future of Gaming: Expectations for Next-Gen Consoles 01:23:40 The Quest for Quality: Balancing Sales and Game Substance 01:25:06 Nostalgia in Gaming: Fond Memories of Consoles 01:30:20 Looking Ahead: Anticipated Games for the Upcoming Seasons

n this episode, the fellas delve into the third installment of their Dragon Ball Z movie retrospective, starting with 'Broly: The Legendary Super Saiyan.' They explore the film's plot, character dynamics, and the impact of Broly's design and power. Throughout the conversation, the fellas speak about the evolution of the Dragon Ball franchise, focusing on the increase in stakes and transformations in various movies. They critique the portrayal of certain heroes quickly becoming punching bags while downplaying their usefulness. The conversation then shifts to Bojack and 'Bojack Unbound' being a standout movie, despite its flaws, and critique the lack of depth in villains like Bojack and Broly in his sequel film. Lastly, the guys discuss 'Bio Broly' and Antonius DaGamer gives a hot take about Broly as a character. The discussion covers the constant return of Broly, character development issues, power scaling, and the audience's reception to these films. What do you all think about these 4 DBZ films and where do they stand in your personal rankings? Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Dragon Ball Z Movie Retrospective 02:56 Exploring Broly: The Legendary Super Saiyan 05:50 Character Dynamics and Plot Analysis 08:54 The Impact of Broly's Design and Power 12:03 Critique of Broly's Character and Villainy 15:03 Comparing this to Other Dragon Ball Z Movies 17:55 Thoughts on Broly's Legacy 37:03 The Evolution of Dragon Ball's Stakes 38:30 Heroes as Punching Bags: A Critical Look 41:07 Aesthetic Appeal vs. Storytelling in Dragon Ball Movies 43:33 Comparing Villains: Broly vs. Android 13 46:24 Bojack Unbound: A Favorite Among Fans 51:15 Character Dynamics and Tournament Elements 55:43 Gohan's Moment: The Stakes of Goku's Absence 01:00:05 Bojack's Weakness: A Villain Lacking Depth 01:12:36 Broly's Second Coming: Plot Flaws and Critiques 01:16:39 Broly's Return and Movie Critique 01:19:23 Character Development and Power Scaling Issues 01:22:15 Broly's Popularity and Audience Reception 01:26:01 Bio Broly: Plot and Character Analysis 01:51:01 Final Thoughts on Broly and Future Films #PressStartSelectPodcast #PSSPodcast #DragonBallZ #DragonBallSuper #DragonBallDaima #DragonBallSparkingZero #Goku #Vegeta #FutureTrunks #Gohan #Broly #KingVegeta #KidTrunks #Videl #Android18 #Hercule #Paragus #Bojack #Saiyan #SuperSaiyan #LegendarySuperSaiyan #BojackUnbound #BrolySecondComing #BioBroly #CapsuleCorp #DBZAnime #DBZVillains #DBZMovies #DBZCommunity

Join hosts Antonius DaGamer, Mykale Smith, and Super SSS Rank as they discuss the latest major shifts in the gaming industry. They dive into Firewalk Studios' closure, Concord's cancellation, and how management decisions shape live service games. The episode also covers the mixed reception of Dragon Age: The Veil Guard, overall industry challenges, and increasing gamer expectations. The conversation then shifts to insights on escapism, creativity, and growing frustrations with big studios like Ubisoft and Nintendo. Lastly, they wrap up with a look at the balance of nostalgia and innovation in gaming, plus reflections on anime giants Bleach, Dragon Ball, and One Piece Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context of Gaming News 02:54 The Closure of Firewalk Studios and Concord 10:01 Management Decisions and Accountability in Gaming 18:13 The Future of Live Service Games 26:42 Dragon Age: The Veil Guard and Its Reception 46:12 Escapism and Frustration in Gaming 49:40 The State of Creativity in Game Development 52:39 Wolverine's Development and Industry Concerns 01:02:02 Nintendo's Complacency and Market Challenges 01:16:46 Nostalgia and Legacy in Gaming 01:28:09 Ubisoft's Disconnect and Franchise Fatigue 01:30:06 The Need for Unity in Gaming 01:33:00 The Evolution of Game Writing 01:36:31 Nostalgia vs. Innovation in Game Design 01:41:52 The Impact of Economic Changes on Gaming 01:45:10 The State of Anime: Bleach and Dragon Ball 01:58:05 One Piece: Consistency and Character Development #dragonage #dragonagetheveilguard #liveservice #nintendo #nintendoswitch #palworld #bandainamco #dragonball #dragonballdaima #onepiece #bleachanime #thousandyearbloodwar #pressstartselectpodcast #psspodcast

In this latest episode, Antonius DaGamer and Super SSS Rank discuss the latest updates with the gaming industry, focusing on the cancellation of the Halo Battle Royale project and the identity crisis facing the Halo franchise. They also explore Netflix's foray into gaming, the challenges streaming companies face in this space, and the importance of community feedback and word of mouth in the gaming industry. The conversation eventually shifts to the challenges faced by Insomniac Games and the broader implications for the gaming industry as a whole. Lastly, they discuss the evolution of JRPGs, particularly focusing on the contrasting success of titles like Persona and Final Fantasy. They delve into the challenges faced by Final Fantasy in terms of marketing and brand loyalty, and how these factors affect player engagement. For the anime part of the podcast, the conversation shifts to character development in gaming adaptations, particularly Tomb Raider, and how modern storytelling in anime is evolving. DandaDan and its' intended target audience also end up becoming a topic of discussion. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Current Gaming Landscape 03:11 The Cancellation of Halo Battle Royale 06:04 The Identity Crisis of Halo 08:46 The Future of Halo and Its Community 12:09 Netflix's Entry into Gaming 16:55 The Challenges of Streaming Companies in Gaming 21:14 The Importance of Game Design and Community Feedback 24:58 The Role of Word of Mouth in Gaming 29:55 The Need for Innovation in Gaming 33:45 The Future of Game Studios and Unique Offerings 46:35 The Future of Gaming IPs 49:56 Diversity with Gaming Characters 53:45 Corporate Influence on Game Development 58:54 The State of Spider-Man Franchise 01:01:15 DLC and Story Expansion Concerns 01:05:58 The Evolution of Gaming Narratives 01:10:32 Console Generations and Market Trends 01:15:06 The Impact of Fan Expectations 01:20:56 The Future of Insomniac Games 01:32:27 The Evolution of JRPGs and Player Expectations 01:39:55 Final Fantasy's Marketing and Brand Loyalty Challenges 01:46:30 Character Development in Gaming Adaptations 01:52:12 The Impact of Anime on Modern Storytelling 02:05:28 The Future of Niche Anime and Gaming Communities #marvelsspiderman #halo #ubisoft #tombraider #dandadan #animepodcast #gamingpodcast #pressstartselectpodcast

In this next installment of the Anime Corner, the fellas discuss the next four films in the world of Dragon Ball Z, those films being Lord Slug, Cooler's Revenge, The Return of Cooler, and Super Android 13. They discuss the strengths and weaknesses of these films, character dynamics, and the execution of plot ideas. Everything from 'Lord Slug' possibly being the worst DBZ movie ever and Cooler potentially being the best movie villain is discussed. They debate whether or not Cooler deserved to have a sequel before closing the conversation with a discussion about Android 13 and why his film isn't regarded as highly as some other DBZ films despite it generally being well received. How highly do you all hold these particular films on the list of greatest Dragon Ball Z films? Chapters: 00:00 Intro 00:45 Lord Slug 02:22 Exploring Lord Slug: Concept vs. Execution 10:43 Character Dynamics and Plot Flaws 21:20 Does Anything in Lord Slug work? 25:55 Cooler: The Better Brother 35:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 01:00:20 The Return of Cooler: Plot and Themes 01:10:13 Underwhelming Ending? 01:17:45 Super Android 13: A New Era Begins 01:25:32 Character Dynamics and Design Critiques 01:33:00 The Climax: Epic Battles and Transformations 01:40:35 Looking Ahead: Next Time on Anime Corner Dragon Ball Z #lordslug #android13 #metalcooler #coolersrevenge #thereturnofcooler #dragonball #dragonballz #dragonballdaima #sparkingzero #dragonballmovie

In this episode of the Press Start Select podcast, the fellas discuss even more significant changes in the gaming industry, focusing on the shutdown of LittleBigPlanet servers and the implications for Sony's IP management. They explore the emotional impact of losing beloved games, the challenges of remakes, and the importance of character legacy in gaming. The conversation also touches on the future of gaming, including the role of VR and the nostalgia factor in modern titles. They then critique the storytelling in the recent Tekken 8 DLC before expanding the conversation to the overall decline of game quality and storytelling across the board. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 05:04 The Heartbreak of LittleBigPlanet's Shutdown 09:46 Sony's IP Management and Customer Loyalty 15:13 The Dilemma of Remakes and Graphics 19:57 The Future of Gaming: VR and Nostalgia 25:12 The Legacy of Iconic Characters in Gaming 30:30 Character Integrity in Gaming 32:10 The Impact of Streaming on Gaming Culture 33:11 Critique of Tekken's Storytelling 35:43 The Evolution of Fighting Game Lore 40:14 The State of DLC and Game Quality 44:04 Comparing Fighting Game Expansions 48:19 The Future of Legacy Fighters 52:01 The Decline of Game Quality and Storytelling 57:15 Remakes and Remasters: A Double-Edged Sword #littlebigplanet #heihachi #tekken8 #sony

In this special, the fellas delve into the world of Dragon Ball Z movies, starting with 'The Dead Zone,' 'The World's Strongest,' and 'The Tree of Might.' They discuss the plots, character dynamics, and the impact of villains and heroes in each film. Some of the conversation highlights include the nostalgia of the series, the evolution of animation, and the significance of character relationships, while also critiquing the missed opportunities in storytelling and character development. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:00 The Dead Zone 17:50 Garlic Jr is Top Tier 30:40 The World's Strongest 36:40 Master Roshi Supremacy 47:00 Goku vs Piccolo 54:55 Tree of Might 01:10:00 Turles 01:20:45 Final Thoughts #dragonball #dragonballz #thedeadzone #theworldsstrongest #treeofmight

In this episode, the fellas discuss the latest updates in Naruto Storm Connections, critique its mechanics and character updates, and compare the modern Naruto legacy to other franchises like Dragon Ball. They also review Mortal Kombat Chaos Reigns, highlighting its storytelling issues and the impact of guest characters on the narrative. The conversation shifts to Tekken 8 and the return of Heihachi, emphasizing the importance of balancing gameplay and story in fighting games. The fellas deep dive into the evolving landscape of fighting games, exploring the challenges of storytelling, character design, and the impact of indie games on the industry. Lastly, they discuss the potential long term damages with DLC and microtransactions, as well as the need for balance in representation in gaming, as well as the future of gaming consoles and pricing. As always, thank you for listening, liking, and subscribing to our Podcast. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:00 Naruto Storm Connections Updates 15:00 The State of Anime Fighting Games and Bandai Namco Effort 23:00 Nostalgia Bait and Marketing Works 34:30 Content Creator Elitism is Here 45:00 Mortal Kombat 1 Khaos Reigns 56:55 Mortal Kombat 1 Guest Characters 01:08:00 Potential Mortal Kombat 1 Ultimate? 01:19:00 Heihachi Returns 01:29:27 Reviving Iconic Characters in Fighting Games 01:39:43 The Future of Fighting Game Narratives 01:47:00 The State of Pay to Play 01:57:00 The Timing of Game Narratives 02:07:05 The Balance of Representation in Gaming 02:13:32 The Future of Gaming and Consumer Expectations 02:20:00 DLC is Getting Too Expensive? 02:41:30 Dragon's Dogma 2 and the Future #Mortalkombat1 #Khaosreigns #stateofplay #gaminglegacy

In this episode, the fellas kick off the discussion with the latest news on the Mortal Kombat 1 DLC character reveals and gameplay mechanics, as well as the launch of Astro Bot and the announcement of the PlayStation 5 Pro. They delve into fan reactions, expectations, and the implications of higher pricing strategies in the gaming industry. The conversation also delves into updates in Dragon Ball FighterZ, the anticipation for Sparking Zero, and the future of the Dragon Ball franchise with Daima. #mortalkombat1 #Astrobot #playstation5pro #dragonballdaima Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview of MK1 DLC 02:48 New MK1 Character Reveals and Gameplay Mechanics 06:14 Story Elements and Character Development 23:11 Astro Bot Launch and Reception 30:18 Game of the Year Contenders 37:30 Fake Gaming Supporters 47:20 PlayStation 5 Pro Announcement and Pricing Discussion 59:45 Consumerism and Brand Loyalty 01:02:02 The Future of Gaming Consoles 01:06:13 The Importance of Gameplay Over Graphics 01:13:09 Updates in Dragon Ball FighterZ 01:20:34 Anticipation for Sparking Zero 01:39:09 The Future of Dragon Ball with Daima