Dense Pixels - Video Game News and Reviews

Micah is diving into Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve, the latest entry in the beloved arcade flight combat series. He shares his early impressions of the aerial dogfighting action and the anime-esque story that surrounds it. Brad has completed his playthrough of Super Metroid, the beloved classic that defined the Metroidvania genre. Also he's surprisingly fallen into an unexpected pinball rabbit hole? Microsoft completes the next devastating phase of their layoffs by shuttering both Halo Studios and Ninja Theory while reshuffling numerous other studios under different gaming divisions. The hosts question what Xbox Game Studios even represents after these massive reorganizations. Discord is forced to reimplement age verification systems across their platform thanks to state regulations, and the system became a trojan horse for serving gambling advertisements to users. The hosts discuss the irony of age verification meant to protect minors enabling predatory gambling marketing. An unintended consequence of the Steam Frame being built on ARM architecture is that virtually every Android-based handheld gaming device can now run a SteamOS fork. The discovery opens new possibilities for handheld gaming and represents an exciting development for the portable gaming landscape. The hosts discuss the far scarier implications of accelerating AI development by examining how AI agents are breaking containment in real-world applications, as demonstrated by incidents at an AI-driven Starcraft tournament. The discussion highlights serious safety concerns about increasingly autonomous artificial intelligence systems.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Despite swearing off the Fire Emblem series following Fire Emblem: Fates, Carrie has returned to the tactical RPG franchise and is really enjoying her very early experience with Fire Emblem Fortune's Weave. She shares what's drawing her back after her previous frustrations with the series. Brad is thirteen years late to the party but has finally finished The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds, discussing why the game serves as a fantastic love letter to A Link to the Past. He reflects on why it's already ranked among his favorite video games ever and what makes the remake so special. Brad has been working through the older Sid Meier's Civilization games including IV, V, and VI, finding the journey informative about how the Civ series is uniquely designed to allow each iteration to stand on its own merits. Playing through the classics has deepened his appreciation for Civilization VII and the franchise's evolution. Bungie shockingly announces a dramatic reversal of their current strategy, revealing plans to return focus to Destiny while making significant changes to Marathon to help broaden the extraction shooter's appeal. The course correction surprises players expecting continued commitment to Marathon as Bungie's flagship live service title. Carrie provides a thorough primer on a brewing copyright situation in the video game music scene between indie labels Materia and GameChops, explaining the complex licensing disputes and what they mean for game music creators and fans. A new report examines why Japanese game studios aren't experiencing the same level of contraction and labor disruptions affecting their Western counterparts, revealing that the key difference is Japanese studios aren't lavishing executives with extravagant bonuses and are instead investing substantially in their workers and talent retention. Hideo Kojima announces that Bill Skarsgard will star in Physint, and the legendary director feigns confusion about why PlayStation decided to dump his latest project. The announcement adds star power to the stealth action game after its surprise acquisition by Microsoft. Final Fantasy VII Revelation introduces a quality-of-life feature allowing players to level up to meet main story content requirements without engaging side quests. The hosts discuss how while this is a progressive feature for a game likely to be bloated with optional content, there may have been better implementation approaches for similar functionality.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Micah delivers his reviews of both Insomniac's Marvel's Wolverine and Capcom's Onimusha: Way of the Sword, discovering a stark contrast in quality between the two titles. One of these games is shaping up to be one of his favorite games of the year, while the other is simply fine. Nintendo hosted two Direct showcases last week that delivered exciting news for fans, including our first look at gameplay from the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake showing how Nintendo is modernizing the classic adventure. The presentations also featured reveals of Kirby and the World Beyond and the hotly anticipated Metroid Ravenous, giving players plenty to anticipate. A Sony State of Play gave viewers the first major trailer for Monster Hunter Wilds: Ascendance, showcasing the game's impressive visuals and scope. The presentation also provided a substantial look at Final Fantasy VII Revelation and announced an entire game's worth of new content being added to Crimson Desert, further expanding that controversial open-world title. Microsoft appears to be operating without any coherent long-term strategy, as within just two weeks they announced massive restrictions to their cloud gaming service, revealed that several major publishers are opting out of their newly announced disc-to-digital program, and inexplicably revealed that CEO Asha Sharma is personally handling Xbox support tickets for some reason, signaling confused leadership priorities. The biggest Microsoft news emerges from Sony canceling Hideo Kojima's highly anticipated new stealth action game project Physint, only for Microsoft to immediately swoop in and splash substantial cash to acquire the project. This acquisition story leaves no one smelling particularly good, with questions remaining about Sony's decision-making and Microsoft's opportunistic maneuvering. Blizzcon delivered a massive show last weekend featuring major reveals including a new Starcraft open-world shooter expanding the beloved RTS universe, World of Warcraft Forever bringing the MMO into new territory, and the surprise announcement of Diablo V. Adding to the positive momentum, 1,900 Blizzard employees announced their union reached a substantial agreement with Microsoft for a comprehensive contract featuring significant worker protections. The Steam Frame has finally arrived at over $1,000, positioning itself as an ambitious entry into portable PC gaming and VR. While it's clearly a 1.0 product with expected growing pains, there's genuine reason to be excited about its long-term potential, though whether it succeeds as a VR machine specifically remains questionable.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

The premiere of Grand Theft Auto 6's first major reveal has finally arrived, and the hosts dive deep into their thoughts about the game's setting, visual fidelity, character designs, and ambitious scale. They discuss whether this official look changes their preconceptions of what to expect and speculate on a provocative question: could GTA 6 be the last proper Grand Theft Auto game? Gamescom took place last week, and the hosts provide high-level analysis of Opening Night Live and the most notable game reveals that captured their attention, including Witcher 3's new and free remastered update bringing fresh life to the beloved RPG, the sci-fi shooter Exodus, Snoop Dogg's appearance as Hitman's new Elusive Target, LEGO Skylines bringing the city-building simulation to LEGO form, and Total War: Warhammer 40,000 combining strategy gaming with Games Workshop's grimdark universe. Xbox officially unveils their rumored disc-to-digital program allowing players to convert physical games to digital versions, a consumer-friendly initiative that the hosts appreciate. However, they acknowledge that the reality is Project Helix likely won't continue the legacy of physical disc gaming as the industry moves toward fully digital distribution. Panic emerges as the only hardware company doing the right thing by refunding tariffs to all Playdate buyers, demonstrating genuine commitment to consumer welfare during inflationary times. The move stands in stark contrast to other tech companies unwilling to absorb tariff costs. Another round of tariffs on technology products looms on the horizon, and combined with the ongoing component shortage crisis, this threatens to make modern gaming even less affordable than it already is. The hosts discuss the cumulative impact on consumer purchasing power and gaming accessibility. DLSS 5 is now out in the wild, and some players have discovered the upscaling technology can dramatically degrade character appearances in what's being called slopification. On top of the visual degradation, the technology is also reportedly delivering a major performance hit rather than the promised improvements. IKEA and Xbox have partnered to create a line of Xbox-themed furniture and accessories, and to everyone's surprise, they're actually pretty good. The collaboration demonstrates that corporate partnerships don't have to result in purely cynical cash grabs. Ubisoft proves that even in the digital age, you can still sell players what amounts to an empty box, as demonstrated by their embarrassing rollout of Heroes of Might and Magic 3.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Terrence returns to the podcast and shares what he's been playing over the past couple of weeks, which surprisingly amounts to mostly a nostalgic return to Diablo III. He discusses what's drawing him back to Blizzard's action RPG and whether it still holds up. Carrie is preparing for the upcoming Evercold expansion to Final Fantasy XIV by catching up on the Dawntrail content, while Micah has discovered an unexpected affection for LEGO games through playing Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight. Brad has been pursuing his best dopamine-driven gaming experiences with Dynasty Warriors Origins and the demo for Hyperloop. The hosts discuss the PlayStation "Blackout" boycott and why it, along with other loosely focused boycott movements, are likely to be ineffective as consumer activism. They argue these boycotts function primarily as a mechanism for participants to feel morally superior about their consumption habits rather than creating meaningful market pressure. Riot Games announces the end of development for their tag fighting game 2XKO after less than a year following its full release. The hosts analyze why the game's objectives were likely misguided and discuss the broader industry problem of larger publishers trying to funnel players into their larger ecosystems rather than simply focusing on making the best possible games regardless of external strategy. The hosts break down the apparent theft of an early build of Grand Theft Auto VI by hacking group Cyberleek, explaining why this security breach will have little to no impact on GTA VI's eventual launch. They discuss how the gaming community should expect such incidents and note the predictable development that the leaker is now attempting to ensnare people into cryptocurrency scams.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Now that Fields of Mistria has reached its official 1.0 release, Carrie has been diving deep into the cozy farming simulation and shows no signs of slowing down. She shares her enjoyment of the game and why it's capturing so much of her gaming time. Twitch quietly rolls out a new opt-out policy allowing Amazon to use streamers' content to train its artificial intelligence tools, sparking immediate outrage in the community. The hosts discuss Twitch's tone-deaf explanation and speculate whether Twitch intentionally bungled the communication strategy to poison the well to raise backlash against the AI training initiative. Saber Interactive and CEO Matt Karch experience quite the chaotic week throwing misguided criticism at Randy Pitchford, publicly disparaging former writer Stella Stacco for exposing their AI usage in development, and then issuing an apology to Stacco. The hosts extract an important lesson: CEOs need to understand that making themselves the public face of their brand can backfire spectacularly when controversies erupt. 2K Games appears to be mounting a legitimate challenge to EA Sports FC's dominance in the competitive soccer video game market. The hosts discuss what this competition could mean for players and whether 2K can actually dent EA's long-standing monopoly in the genre. In an extended Post Office segment, the hosts discuss some of the most hilariously dumb game concepts they've encountered and express genuine happiness that demo culture has made a comeback in the gaming industry. They celebrate how game demos allow players to avoid purchasing poorly conceived titles while letting developers showcase their work.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Micah shares his enthusiasm for Marvel Tokon, pleasantly surprised by how the fighting game manages to deliver a fairly deep yet welcoming fighting system while remaining very faithful to its Marvel source material. He discusses what makes the game approachable for newcomers while still offering meaningful depth for competitive players. Brad has invested time into Old World, an antiquity-focused 4X game that delves into more granular detail than expected from the strategy genre. He highlights how the game allows you to craft unique stories around your family and court, with diplomacy both within and without being a major gameplay feature alongside traditional 4X staples like expansion and resource management. With EA needing to shed significant costs due to the $20 billion in assumed debt that came with their Saudi Arabian acquisition, reports indicate the publisher is likely to cut substantial amounts of staff across the organization. Microsoft continues its post-launch layoff strategy by cutting staff at Halo Studios now that Halo: Campaign Evolved has shipped. The hosts discuss how this strategy is likely to be repeated with other upcoming Microsoft game releases, creating uncertainty about job security and resource allocation in the gaming industry. No Man's Sky celebrates its 10th anniversary milestone, and Sean Murray takes a well-deserved and humble victory lap as the space exploration game stands as arguably gaming's greatest redemption story. The hosts reflect on the game's remarkable journey from its controversial launch to becoming one of gaming's most respected and celebrated titles. WWE makes a hilariously questionable decision by filing a trademark claim for a term that Grand Theft Auto VI may take issue with.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad finally cracks the code on Warframe and finds himself completely obsessed with Digital Extremes' massive live service shooter. He explains how the game's expansive and intricate story campaign serves as the key to understanding and appreciating Warframe, and details the rewarding experience that awaits players who invest the time to let the game fully reveal what it has to offer. The hosts discuss recent network outages affecting both PlayStation and Xbox, with the timing of these service disruptions proving particularly awkward coming mere weeks after Sony announced the end of physical game discs in the near future. The outages raise questions about infrastructure reliability as the industry transitions to digital-only distribution. Asha Sharma reveals her strategic vision for rebuilding Xbox, and her approach appears to hinge primarily on transforming Minecraft into something resembling Roblox. The hosts analyze whether this direction makes sense for Microsoft's gaming future and what it signals about Xbox's priorities going forward. Despite laying off significant staff at their studios last year, EA's shareholders reward CEO Andrew Wilson with an extra eight million dollars in compensation based on Battlefield 6's strong performance. Things only appear to be getting more bleak given that the Saudi Arabian acquisition of EA is closing this week, bringing major new ownership and uncertainty to the publisher's future direction and operations. Microsoft begins testing a free, advertisement-supported cloud streaming service for players without Game Pass subscriptions. The hosts struggle to identify exactly what customer segment Microsoft is attempting to reach with this strategy and whether it represents a viable business model or something else entirely.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Carrie details her first-ever trip to Las Vegas where she experienced the incredible Backstreet Boys concert at the iconic Sphere venue, and that she and her husband got paid out from a Bomberman slot machine. Brad expresses genuine positivity about Terratech Legion, a unique vehicle destruction roguelike that offers a fresh spin on the Survivors subgenre. He breaks down what makes this indie title's mechanical approach so compelling and different from other bullet heaven games. Brad has returned to Warframe and is committing serious time, in part due to the community-first approach that Digital Extremes takes toward the live service shooter. He respects how the developers prioritize player feedback and argues that Warframe is arguably the best live service game currently on the market today. Microsoft deploys Todd Howard, the normally reclusive legendary designer, to discuss upcoming news about The Elder Scrolls VI and Fallout 5 development among other Bethesda Game Studios projects. The appearance signals Microsoft's desperation to control the industry narrative surrounding Xbox's gaming future. GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen appears to labor under the delusion that the death of physical games will have no impact on his company, despite GameStop being best-known for selling physical video games. His denial of market reality raises questions about leadership competence at the struggling retailer. Marathon director Joe Ziegler surprisingly leaves Bungie just four months after the extraction shooter's launch. Brad speculates on why this departure may not be a sign the sky is falling for the critically acclaimed but embattled game, and offers perspective on leadership transitions in live service games. ZA/UM announces significant staff layoffs due to the commercial underperformance of Zero Parades: For Dead Spies. The hosts discuss how the controversy and community pushback surrounding Disco Elysium likely contributed to this outcome, while arguing that it's unfair to other developers who were integral to Disco Elysium's original success.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

The console gaming landscape has undergone a massive shift over the past couple of weeks, with major announcements reshaping the industry's competitive dynamics. The hosts recap the dramatic changes and what they mean for players and the gaming market going forward. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma executes the major console reset she promised, including the cutting loose of Double Fine, Ninja Theory, and other development studios, a strategic pivot away from Game Pass as their core business strategy, and the firing of 1,600 employees with an additional 1,600 job cuts reportedly on the horizon. The scale of the reorganization signals a fundamental transformation for Xbox's business model. While some of Sharma's moves make logical sense from a business restructuring perspective, the massive staff slashing appears to directly contradict her stated goal of reaching a billion players per day. The hosts analyze how eliminating experienced developers and studio leadership could undermine Xbox's ability to create the content needed to achieve that ambitious target, and discuss why Xbox is probably about to become a very different gaming publisher, though not necessarily for the better. Sony sends shockwaves through the industry by announcing they will cease producing physical PlayStation games on disc beginning in 2028. The announcement triggers significant backlash from both players concerned about ownership and preservation, as well as retail partners worried about their business models, even though many observers predicted this move was inevitable. The hosts break down the real reason behind Sony's strategy: controlling the digital marketplace for PlayStation games. They argue this decision is so anti-consumer that it could backfire spectacularly when PlayStation 6 launches if players remember being locked into digital-only purchasing through a single marketplace. Games Done Quick's Summer GDQ event achieves massive success raising two point four million dollars for Doctors Without Borders, but this accomplishment is slightly tarnished by community backlash over their handling of a sponsorship from Saudi-owned SNK. The controversy around accepting and then rescinding the sponsorship has created unnecessary drama surrounding the charity event. The hosts discuss the critical importance of preserving Steam's generous refund policy, which has become a gold standard in the industry for consumer protection and game quality assurance. Ubisoft draws criticism for callously laying off developers at their Barcelona studio immediately following the critical and commercial success of Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced. A potential Metroid Dread sequel is being linked in industry reports, raising excitement among Nintendo fans about the beloved franchise's future and what a new entry might bring to the sci-fi action adventure series.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

FULL SPOILERS FOR 007 FIRST LIGHT

The Men With the Golden Tongues are back, and we're reviewing the newest James Bond adventure - 007 First Light! We discuss our impressions of IO Interactive's very unique take on a James Bond origin story, the new interpretations of the MI6 gang, the emotional rail that is John Greenway's character, the mystery around Isola's character, how the game tells a more compelling AI story than other big budget Hollywood efforts, and much more!

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Microsoft announces yet another price increase on their gaming consoles, and the hosts explain why their competitors will likely follow suit with similar price hikes. The discussion examines how rapidly increasing component costs show no signs of stopping and will almost certainly impact the pricing of upcoming console generations. The pricing structure for Grand Theft Auto VI has finally been revealed, but Rockstar Games and Take-Two Interactive face mounting criticism on two fronts: significant content being locked behind the expensive ninety-nine dollar Ultimate Edition and the shocking decision that the game won't receive a physical release. The hosts discuss the implications of these controversial decisions. The confluence of Grand Theft Auto VI's launch timing and ongoing component shortages has prompted a major retailer to predict a significant console shortage during the critical holiday shopping season. The hosts explore what this means for consumers trying to purchase gaming hardware during peak demand periods. The hosts detail major fighting game announcements and news revealed at EVO this past weekend, covering new character reveals, and developments in the competitive fighting game community that captured attention at the massive esports event. Tencent is reported to be pulling substantial investments from Japanese gaming companies, raising concerns about the future of several studios and what this Chinese conglomerate's strategic shift means for the global gaming landscape and Japanese game development. Tim Sweeney once again demonstrates poor judgment by publicly criticizing Valve for implementing AI disclosure requirements in their digital storefront. The hypocrisy is glaring considering Epic stands to profit enormously from generative AI technology through Unreal Engine 6's AI-focused features and capabilities.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

The Steam Machine is finally a reality with Valve announcing the official release date and pricing details. The hosts share their thoughts on how the price aligns with market expectations and debate whether this gaming device represents a worthwhile purchase for its target audience at the price point Valve is charging. Epic Games reveals the first details about Unreal Engine 6, and the hosts express concern that it appears to be essentially a UE5 AI slop generator with the added benefit for Epic of creating a streamlined and highly profitable pipeline funneling game developers directly into Fortnite's ecosystem. They discuss the implications of this strategy for developers and studios. EA launches a brand management vertical that represents a surprising gap in the gaming space. In an extended Post Office segment, the hosts express their desire for more developers to embrace anthologized storytelling formats rather than stretching narratives across multiple games. They discuss how self-contained stories can be more satisfying and creatively fulfilling for both developers and players. We also discuss Ninja Gaiden 4, Ninja Theory's future direction, the new MSi Claw handheld gaming device, and SanDisk's aggressively expensive PS5 storage expansion pricing that has players frustrated with the costs of expanding their console's capacity.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad rejoins millions of lapsed Guardians checking out Destiny 2 in the wake of its final update, the recently released Monument of Triumph. He finds himself unexpectedly hooked back into Bungie's space opera, rediscovering what made the franchise so compelling despite its controversial live service ending. Nintendo's Summer Game Fest Nintendo Direct delivered major announcements that the hosts break down in detail, including the reveal of Xenoblade Genesis, Final Fantasy Resonance bringing RPG excellence to Nintendo's platform, Deltarune Chapter 5 continuing Toby Fox's ambitious story, Kingdom Hearts 4 expanding the complicated crossover saga, and the lukewarm reveal of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Xbox's positive PR momentum comes to a crashing halt following the release of an internal memo from CEO Asha Sharma signaling a major strategic shift coming in the months ahead. The communication already sparks reports of potential studio closures at Ninja Theory, Compulsion Games, and Double Fine, sending shockwaves through the gaming industry and prompting speculation that Microsoft may be considering selling off the Xbox brand entirely. Ubisoft continues contributing to negative sentiment in game development by announcing the closure of two additional studios. The publisher's ongoing staff reductions and studio shutdowns raise serious questions about the company's financial health and strategic direction. In an extended Post Office segment, the hosts tackle listener questions about novelty popcorn buckets, the importance of communally celebrating other people's individual achievements and accomplishments, and a lighthearted discussion about the most freaky and elaborate wrestler gimmicks in professional wrestling history

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

It's the week of not-E3 or Keigh-3...better known as Summer Game Fest, and we dive deep into the major presentations from across the industry, highlighting the games that most captured our attention and excitement. Sony's presentation delivered impressive announcements including Marvel's Wolverine, Dr Doom coming to Marvel Tokon, Rayman Legends Untold bringing a classic platformer back with new adventures, Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis reimagining Lara Croft's saga, and God of War: Laufey expanding the Norse mythology universe. The main Summer Game Fest showcase featured major reveals that include two brand new Cuphead games expanding the run-and-gun franchise, the baffling appearance of Tupac in Stranger Than Heaven, two exciting Star Wars games with Zero Company and Galactic Racer offering different takes on the beloved franchise, and Final Fantasy VII Remake Revelation bringing the ambitious remake project forward with significant new content. Xbox's presentation showcased an eclectic mix of upcoming titles including the return of Crazy Taxi in modern form, Clockwork Revolution offering a steampunk adventure, Persona 4 Revival revisiting a beloved JRPG classic, and ateaser for Persona 6 that has fans speculating about the next entry. The showcase also highlighted Vivarium, Gears of War: E-Day exploring the franchise's origins, and Spyro: A Realm Beyond bringing the dragon back to gaming. Beyond these major publisher presentations, numerous other games were announced and showcased throughout the week, giving fans and industry observers plenty to discuss and anticipate for the months and years ahead. But of course, generative AI hangs as a pall over it all...

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad and Micah have both completed 007 First Light and share their thoughts on James Bond's triumphant return to video games. The Men with the Golden Tongues discuss whether this new spy thriller lives up to the iconic franchise's legacy and what makes it stand out in the gaming landscape. Brad has also explored Mina the Hollower and finds himself disappointed as the game fails to live up to expectations, primarily due to a brutal and unforgiving combat system that frustrates rather than excites. He analyzes what the game gets wrong and whether the difficulty is justified. Carrie immerses herself back into Baldur's Gate III, driven by a genuine yearning to return to Dungeons and Dragons storytelling and character development. She discusses what draws her back to the massive RPG and why the D&D experience remains so compelling. Bungie makes the shocking announcement that they are ending live development on Destiny 2, with Destiny 3 reportedly not currently in development plans. Micah and Brad recount some of their favorite Destiny memories over the years and speculate about where Bungie will pivot their creative focus going forward. The Stop Killing Games movement advocating for game preservation appears to be gaining real traction with governments both in Europe and the United States. The hosts discuss what this grassroots effort means for digital game preservation and the future of access to beloved titles. The Steam Deck receives a massive surprise price increase out of the blue, prompting Brad to evaluate whether the handheld PC gaming device remains a great entry point for PC gaming at its new price point. He also speculates what this pricing move could portend for the upcoming Steam Machine's eventual launch price.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad delivers his review of Forza Horizon 6, finding the racing game very fun while simultaneously identifying significant missed opportunities. He critiques how the game fails to meaningfully differentiate itself from prior Forza Horizon entries and doesn't fully embrace the unique possibilities of its Japanese setting, leaving potential on the table. Subnautica 2 launches to impressive success with a terrific opening weekend that exceeds expectations. The underwater survival sequel's strong debut demonstrates continued appetite for the franchise and validates the developer's approach to the long-awaited follow-up. Xbox makes a "bold" branding change by simplifying their identity to just XBOX in all capital letters. Sony strategically increases the price of short-term PlayStation Plus subscriptions in a clear effort to encourage customers to commit to the annual membership option instead. The pricing adjustment raises questions about subscription strategy and consumer choice in the gaming market. Sony officially confirms that their single-player games will remain exclusive to the PS5 platform, sparking important discussion about whether the industry is headed back toward console walled gardens. The announcement represents a reversal from recent multi-platform trends and could reshape the competitive landscape. In an extensive Post Office segment, the hosts tackle listener questions including why we haven't seen XCOM 3 despite the franchise's success, which members of Team Star Fox each host identifies with most strongly, and what their ideal Japan pilgrimage itinerary would look like if they could plan the ultimate gaming and cultural trip.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad finds himself completely engrossed in the revamped Diablo IV endgame experience following the Lord of Hatred expansion, crediting the addition of a legitimate and satisfying crafting system that transforms the itemization grind. The new mechanics have breathed fresh life into the action RPG's post-campaign content. The long-awaited Steam Controller finally arrives and it's pretty damn good according to the hosts, though with one important caveat: you need to fully engage with Steam Input to unlock its potential. They break down the learning curve and why embracing Valve's customization tools is essential. Alabaster Dawn emerges as a promising new action-RPG that demonstrates real potential thanks to its impressively flowing combat system. eBay officially rejects Ryan Cohen's absurd overture to purchase the company, delivering their response in the most devastatingly polite corporate language possible. The professional dismissal perfectly encapsulates how seriously the business world takes GameStop's CEO. Switch 2 prices are finally increasing due to the ongoing RAM shortage crisis, but consumers still have a limited window to purchase at current pricing before the hike takes effect. The hosts advise on whether waiting or buying now makes more sense. A true gaming legend in Takashi Tezuka announces his retirement from Nintendo after an extraordinary forty-plus year career shaping some of gaming's most beloved franchises. The hosts celebrate his monumental contributions to the industry and Mario's legacy. PS5 sales have dropped sharply in recent quarters, and Sony's questionable solution appears to be pivoting corporate focus toward AI initiatives rather than addressing core gaming concerns. The strategy raises eyebrows about PlayStation's future direction. Xbox introduces a slimmed-down version of Game Pass specifically designed to partner with Discord, targeting the platform's massive gaming community. The collaboration represents Microsoft's continued efforts to expand subscription reach beyond traditional channels. Fighting game director Harada makes his return to the public eye, though given his current situation and where he's landed, the hosts wish he had stayed away. They discuss the complicated circumstances surrounding his comeback.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad shares his comprehensive review after crushing through Vampire Crawlers, analyzing how this spiritual successor stacks up against the genre-defining Vampire Survivors. He breaks down the similarities, improvements, and what makes this deck building roguelike worth players' time. Micah checks out the superhero brawler Invincible VS and finds himself disappointed by the execution. He explains what doesn't work about the game and why it fails to capture the spirit of the popular animated series. Brad unexpectedly gets pulled into the relaxing yet engaging world of Hardspace Shipbreaker, praising its slightly chill vibes that balance meditative gameplay with satisfying progression systems. The space salvage simulator offers a unique take on the deconstruction genre. Micah expresses genuine enthusiasm for Saros, finding himself vibing with Housemarque's latest much more than he did with Returnal. He discusses the specific changes the developer made to their roguelike formula that makes Saros significantly more approachable for a wider audience without sacrificing depth. Brad completes the Diablo IV: Lord of Hatred campaign and delivers a spoiler-free review of the expansion. He explains why the game is in an excellent place if this proves to be the last major content update players can expect from Blizzard. Microsoft announces a Game Pass price reduction achieved by removing day one access to future Call of Duty games from the subscription service. The hosts debate whether this trade-off is enough to win back subscribers who left the platform. Ryan Cohen sparks widespread confusion by announcing GameStop's bizarre bid to purchase eBay in what appears to be a completely unfeasible acquisition. The hosts dissect how idiotic this move is, analyze Cohen's disastrous performance during his CNBC interview, and speculate about his likely ulterior motives behind this publicity stunt. Sony finally addresses player confusion around a new DRM requirement they quietly implemented, only clarifying the policy after letting speculation and misinformation run rampant following its discovery by observant players. The delayed communication frustrated the PlayStation community. In an extensive Post Office segment, the hosts discuss the significant departure of the New Day faction from WWE, reflecting on the group's importance as an innovative and groundbreaking faction in wrestling history. They share favorite moments and explain why this move is unfortunately par for the course in today's corporate WWE environment.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Micah and Brad share their impressions of Pragmata, exploring what makes this intriguing departure from Capcom's typical offerings such a remarkable and unique gaming experience. They analyze the game's innovative mechanics, atmospheric storytelling, and how it stands apart from the publisher's established franchises. Micah has been fully indoctrinated into the world of Crimson Desert, but the question remains whether he's enjoying this obtuse yet curious open-world game as much as Terrence has. The two compare notes on their experiences navigating the game's challenging systems and unconventional design philosophy. Krafton's ill-advised ChatGPT-influenced legal strategy may have catastrophically backfired, potentially costing them the valuable publishing rights for the highly anticipated Subnautica 2. The hosts dissect how relying on AI for legal decisions led to this embarrassing and costly mistake. In a counterintuitive market reaction, the publication of materials stolen from Rockstar Games during a major hack had the inverse effect of actually raising Take-Two's stock price. The hosts examine why investors responded positively to what should have been damaging news for the company. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma publicly states that Game Pass subscription pricing is too expensive, raising speculation about whether a price cut is imminent. Given that the hosts recorded this episode before Tuesday's news confirming changes, their predictions proved remarkably prescient about Microsoft's pricing strategy. The hosts recap WrestleMania Vegas and discuss how excessive advertising throughout the event serves as the clearest bellwether of how the WWE product quality has significantly diminished under TKO's corporate guidance. The analysis examines the balance between commercial interests and entertainment value.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Terrence continues investing significant time into Crimson Desert, discussing what makes the game absolutely compelling and addictive for him personally despite his hesitation to recommend it broadly to others. He explores the paradox of loving a game while recognizing its polarizing nature and niche appeal. Disney and Epic Games are reportedly collaborating on a Disney-themed extraction shooter, prompting discussion about this bizarre genre choice for family-friendly IP. The hosts share their thoughts on this unexpected partnership and examine why Epic Games appears so creatively bankrupt and bereft of original ideas for new projects. NFT game developer Gunzilla Games faces controversy after being revealed as delinquent in paying their contractors and freelancers. Making matters worse, their CEO decided to go on an ill-advised public rant attempting to justify why not paying workers is somehow acceptable, demonstrating terrible crisis management. Hello Games surprises the gaming community by releasing a Pokemon-esque creature collection update to No Man's Sky. The expansion adds unexpected gameplay mechanics that draw clear inspiration from Nintendo's monster-catching franchise, showing the developer's continued commitment to evolving the space exploration title. The hosts discuss Google's decision to remove the psychological horror visual novel Doki Doki Literature Club from the Google Play Store. The removal raises questions about content moderation policies and what constitutes acceptable material on mobile platforms. Carrie and Terrence provide a comprehensive breakdown of what's happening at this weekend's WrestleMania event for Brad and Micah who are completely out of the loop with WWE. They explain the major storylines, key matches, and whether this year's showcase is generating significant buzz among wrestling fans.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Carrie shares her thoughts on the Super Mario Galaxy movie, giving it a solid if unremarkable assessment. The hosts dive into the specific aspects she genuinely enjoyed while examining why critics responded negatively to Nintendo's latest animated film adaptation and whether that criticism is fair. Brad provides detailed impressions from the Civilization VII Test of Time playtest that took place over the weekend, breaking down his hands-on experience with the highly anticipated updates Firaxis has planned for the game. The hosts pay tribute to the late Yoshihisa Kishimoto, reflecting on his significant contributions to the gaming industry and the lasting legacy he leaves behind. His impact on game development and the projects he worked on shaped experiences for countless players. The RAM shortage crisis continues wreaking havoc on gaming hardware as the Lenovo Legion Go 2 price skyrockets to absolutely insane levels. The hosts examine how the ongoing component shortage is making handheld gaming PCs increasingly unaffordable for average consumers. An expansive Post Office segment tackles multiple listener questions and hot topics including the hosts' personal stories about their highest levels of being zooted, a debate on whether retro games provide an oasis from problems plaguing modern gaming, and a discussion about the actual importance or lack thereof of Steam concurrent player counts as a metric for game success.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad expresses amazement at Marathon's Cryo Archive map design while confronting the sobering reality that he may never fully experience everything this complex environment has to offer. The map showcases Bungie's ambitious level design but highlights accessibility challenges for casual players. Carrie delivers a glowing review of the latest Final Fantasy: Distant Worlds concert tour, sharing her experiences with the orchestral performances that bring beloved game soundtracks to life. The concert series continues to be a must-see event for Final Fantasy fans. Terrence finally completes Cyberpunk 2077 and its acclaimed Phantom Liberty expansion, sharing his overwhelmingly positive thoughts on CD Projekt Red's redemption story. Terrence dives deep into Crimson Desert while the hosts discuss the game's polarizing reception among players and critics. They analyze who would most appreciate this ambitious open-world action RPG from Pearl Abyss and what makes it so divisive. Epic Games shocks the industry by laying off twenty percent of their workforce because growth isn't meeting Tim Sweeney's expectations. The hosts dissect Sweeney's tone-deaf and insulting response to these devastating cuts and argue this exemplifies broader societal issues with corporate leadership priorities. Sony announces another PS5 price increase including raising the PS5 Pro to an eye-watering nine hundred dollar price tag. The discussion explores implications for console gaming's future and where budget-conscious gamers might find relief from escalating hardware costs. Nintendo reveals that physical Switch 2 games will likely carry higher price tags than their digital counterparts moving forward. This pricing strategy represents a significant shift in Nintendo's approach to physical media and game distribution. Jensen Huang's response to widespread DLSS 5 criticism demonstrates a hilariously disconnected understanding of community concerns. Nvidia's CEO seems completely out of touch with player reactions to the controversial AI upscaling features. The hosts examine current perils facing both public and private video game investment through multiple lenses including Epic's layoffs, wild stock price fluctuations for Crimson Desert developer Pearl Abyss, and Meta's staggering eighty billion dollar waste from abandoning the Metaverse vision. Capcom wisely begins backpedaling on controversial story elements involving Alex's incest storyline following community backlash.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Carrie shares the incredible experience of performing at GDC with her band Premium Vintage alongside Hades composer Darren Korb, one of gaming's most celebrated musicians. The performance brought together gaming music talent in an unforgettable showcase at the Game Developers Conference. Carrie delivers enthusiastic early impressions of Monster Hunter Stories 3, praising the game's improvements and engaging gameplay mechanics. Her positive reaction suggests the latest entry in the Monster Hunter spin-off series is delivering on fan expectations. Micah expresses his genuine enjoyment of Ghost of Yotei: Legends, the standalone multiplayer expansion that continues the Ghost of Tsushima legacy. He breaks down what makes the cooperative experience so compelling and how it builds on the original game's foundation. Brad finds unexpected joy in Marathon's solo queues playing as a scumbag role. Meanwhile, Bungie demonstrates they're already firing on all cylinders with the game's deep and engaging lore that's captivating players. Fortnite attempts to justify raising V-Bucks prices with reasoning that strains credibility, sparking debate among the massive playerbase about monetization practices in free-to-play games and whether Epic's explanation holds water. The European Union takes a firm regulatory stance against loot boxes by reclassifying games containing them with more restrictive PEGI age ratings. This significant policy shift could reshape how games with randomized monetization are marketed across Europe. The state of New York files a lawsuit against Valve over CS:GO loot boxes, adding to mounting legal pressure on the company's handling of cosmetic gambling mechanics. The case could set important precedents for gaming regulation. Nvidia unveils the first preview of DLSS 5 technology but faces widespread mockery after its new AI features appear to dramatically alter character appearances in unintended ways. The community's "yassification" criticism highlights concerns about AI image processing. Arc Raiders developer Embark begins walking back their inclusion of AI voice acting in the game following community backlash. The reversal reflects growing tensions between AI implementation and player expectations for authentic voice performance. Court filings reveal that the former Subnautica studio head may regain his position and substantial financial bonus after a court decision shows Krafton's CEO wrongfully terminated him. The documents paint an unflattering picture of the executive's decision-making.



Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Carrie shares her early impressions of Pokemon Pokopia and the timeless RPG classic Chrono Trigger. Her insights offer perspective on how both games approach storytelling and gameplay. Brad expresses his genuine enthusiasm for Marathon's multiplayer experience while being completely blown away by the early access release of Slay the Spire II. The roguelike deckbuilder sequel has exceeded his expectations and he breaks down what makes it such a compelling follow-up. Highguard faces shutdown in a development that surprises few industry observers. The hosts analyze why publishers continue investing heavily in attempts to create the next massive live service hit despite the genre's notoriously high failure rate and the mounting evidence against this strategy. Google and Epic Games reach a settlement in their legal battle, with terms that could have significant and wide-reaching implications across the entire gaming industry. The hosts dissect what this settlement means for app stores, payment processing, and developer freedom. The Trump administration considers forcing Chinese publisher Tencent to divest their substantial US holdings and gaming investments. The hosts question why more people aren't recognizing this as a replay of the TikTok divestment playbook with potentially serious consequences for gaming. Nagoshi Studios' impressive action game Gang of Dragons faces an uncertain future after Netease unexpectedly pulls their funding from the project. The withdrawal raises concerns about the game's development timeline and eventual release. Battlefield 6 struggles with player retention issues despite an initially strong launch, leading to layoffs across multiple EA studios. The hosts examine what went wrong and why the game failed to maintain its playerbase. Sony begins testing dynamic pricing in the PlayStation Store, implementing variable pricing based on demand and other factors. The controversial move raises questions about digital game pricing and consumer value.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Micah shares his detailed impressions of two major releases with God of War: Sons of Sparta and Resident Evil 9. Carrie takes a nostalgic journey back to her childhood with the digital release of Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen, exploring how these classic Kanto remakes hold up in the modern era and what makes them special for longtime Pokemon fans. Brad and Terrence dive into their experiences with the Marathon Server Slam beta weekend, offering contrasting perspectives on Bungie's upcoming extraction shooter. While Terrence remains unconvinced by the world, Brad has become completely absorbed in Bungie's deep lore universe and shares his newfound enthusiasm. The hosts provide comprehensive coverage of last week's Pokemon Presents showcase, with Carrie expressing particular excitement for Pokemon Pokopia and the team analyzing the surprise announcement of Pokemon Wind and Waves. The presentation offered plenty of news for franchise fans. Stardew Valley marks its tenth anniversary milestone with an unexpected update that transforms one of the community's least favorite characters into a marriage candidate, sparking debate among the game's dedicated fanbase about developer ConcernedApe's design choices. Bloomberg journalist Jason Schreier delivers two major industry scoops this week, revealing behind-the-scenes details about Highguard's development struggles and identifying the parties responsible for why fans still haven't received a Bloodborne remake despite years of demand. The revelations shed light on complex studio politics. The podcast concludes with an extended Post Office segment where the hosts candidly discuss the games they've spent the most money on as whales, sharing personal stories about microtransactions, collector's editions, and gaming spending habits.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Microsoft shakes the gaming industry to its core with the stunning announcement of Phil Spencer's retirement from Xbox leadership, Sarah Bond's unexpected departure, and the promotion of former AI executive Asha Sharma to the position of Xbox CEO. The hosts provide deep analysis of Spencer's complex legacy at Xbox, explore the circumstances surrounding Sarah Bond's exit and whether she left voluntarily or was pushed out, and debate what Sharma's AI background could mean for the future direction of Xbox and their first-party studios. Sony makes the controversial decision to shutter the critically acclaimed Bluepoint Games despite the studio never releasing a single game under PlayStation's ownership. The hosts examine potential missteps by Bluepoint that may have contributed to this outcome while arguing that Sony's decision represents a terrible strategic move that wastes exceptional talent and damages developer confidence. The Saudi Arabian takeover of EVO is now finalized, raising important questions about what this ownership change means for the tournament's future and the broader competitive fighting game community. The discussion explores potential impacts on event culture and the esports scene. EA is using generative AI technology in the development process for EA Sports FC, and in a surprising twist, Carrie emerges as an unexpected defender of this controversial practice. The hosts debate the merits and concerns of AI integration in game development. Brad chronicles his journey into the original Dark Souls and discovers that his extensive Elden Ring experience provides surprisingly little help navigating the punishing classic. He shares the challenges of adjusting to the older FromSoftware formula.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad explores the bizarre and fascinating world of Mewgenics, a unique tactical game that combines turn-based strategy with cat breeding mechanics. The question is whether this quirky title can overcome his usual aversion to turn-based tactical games with its unusual premise. Carrie shares her excitement for Monster Hunter Stories 3 after diving into the substantial new demo that recently launched. Terrence embarks on an Xbox gaming spree, providing impressions of multiple titles including Black Myth Wukong, the stylish action game Rollerdrome, the critically acclaimed Resident Evil 4 Remake, the co-op shooter Outriders, and the intense Warhammer 40,000 Boltgun. The podcast examines the surprisingly rapid layoffs at Riot's 2XKO studio and Highguard developer Wildgate Studios, questioning why new studios continue pursuing ambitious live service games despite the genre's notoriously high failure rate. The discussion highlights persistent issues in live service development. Sony delivered an exceptional State of Play presentation featuring exciting announcements including new God of War projects, Konami's impressive comeback, and updates on Marathon that have renewed Brad's cautious optimism for Bungie's upcoming title. The showcase demonstrated Sony's strong first and third-party lineup. Blizzard surprises the gaming community by introducing a new class to Diablo II Resurrected years after its release. Meanwhile, significant improvements to Overwatch have fans wondering if the franchise is experiencing a renaissance and return to form. A global RAM shortage crisis creates ripple effects across gaming hardware, delaying Valve's new hardware releases, making the Steam Deck unavailable for the first time since launch, and potentially forcing Nintendo to increase Switch 2 prices. The shortage impacts the entire gaming hardware industry. Discord's controversial attempt to implement oppressive privacy features and subsequent reversal sparks a broader conversation about Peter Thiel's influence and how tech billionaires are negatively impacting digital spaces and privacy rights.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Terrence uncovers a hidden gem in the roguelite genre with his impressions of Kiborg, a brawler that deserves more attention from fans of challenging action games. The game combines roguelite mechanics with intense combat for a compelling experience. Brad provides an in-depth review of No Rest for the Wicked following Moon Studios' new co-op update that significantly enhances the gameplay experience. He believes this action RPG has the potential to become a major player in the ARPG space once it reaches its full release, praising the improvements and additions. Carrie explores Two-Point Museum, the latest management simulation from the beloved Two-Point series. Investors show misplaced enthusiasm for Google Genie's underwhelming game demos, paradoxically causing stock prices for Take-Two, Unity, and Roblox to drop sharply following the reveal. The hosts dissect why the market reaction reflects concerns about AI-generated gaming content. Ubisoft's decision to lay off over 200 employees at their Paris offices sparks plans for a company-wide strike by unionized staff, highlighting growing tensions between management and workers in the gaming industry. The podcast tackles serious industry issues including why video game executives appearing in the Epstein files shouldn't shock anyone familiar with tech industry culture. On a lighter note, the hosts share their personal comfort foods and discuss the current state of WWE following the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Terrence shares his detailed impressions of Highguard and the hosts dive into predictions about the game's potential success in this competitive field in gaming. Brad reviews two charming indie games that deliver nostalgic throwback experiences with Vital Shell and Super 10 Pin. These smaller titles prove that indie developers continue to capture the magic of classic gaming while adding their own unique twists. Carrie recounts her amazing experience attending the Persona Live concert in Los Angeles, sharing highlights from the performance and what makes the Persona series music so special for fans. Ubisoft announces a major organizational shakeup that immediately impacts investor confidence, with share prices falling dramatically following the news. The hosts debate whether this restructuring could actually benefit the struggling publisher in the long term despite the market's negative reaction. The podcast explores a potentially groundbreaking verdict from a civil trial in the UK that could significantly impact how digital currencies are valued and owned, with implications reaching far beyond gaming into broader digital currency value. The hosts discuss the new Super Mario Galaxy Movie trailer and share their reactions to Nintendo's latest animated venture. They also tackle the hypocrisy of payment processors who selectively enforce their policies, and dream about mini-consoles that never made it to market but absolutely should have.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Carrie shares her exciting experience attending and performing at MAGfest this year, bringing listeners behind the scenes of one of gaming's most beloved music and gaming conventions. Brad dives into his hands-on impressions of the new Tokyo Xtreme Racer, a game that authentically captures the PS2 era racing experience with both its nostalgic charm and its dated quirks. Meta makes a dramatic business pivot away from the Metaverse toward AI technology, resulting in the closure of two prominent game development studios, raising questions about the future of VR gaming. Massive Entertainment announces development of The Division 3, but the news is immediately overshadowed by Ubisoft laying off staff at the studio and the departure of their studio head to EA. The timing highlights ongoing turbulence in the AAA gaming industry. Valve updates their AI disclosure policies with a surprising loosening of restrictions, and the hosts make a compelling argument for why this change might actually benefit the gaming community despite initial concerns about artificial intelligence in game development. Monster Hunter Wilds faces severe PC performance issues, and the potential cause might be one of the most absurd technical problems in recent gaming memory. The podcast wraps with reactions to Sophie Turner's casting as Lara Croft in the upcoming Tomb Raider project, alongside sharp criticism of GameStop's social media team's complete loser behavior.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad went a little wild during the Steam Winter Sale and came away with a pile of indie games that mostly rule. He breaks down his early impressions of Reus 2, 9 Kings, and Sol Cesto, and explains why these smaller releases continue to outshine big-budget fare. Carrie has been catching up on her backlog with Blue Prince and The Legend of Zelda: Age of Imprisonment, and even dusted off the SNES to revisit Final Fantasy VI (formerly known as Final Fantasy III in the US). Terrence shocks everyone by purchasing an Xbox Series X, while Micah shares the unique challenges of co-op gaming with a kid who has very different priorities than finishing objectives. We also reflect on the passing of Respawn’s Vince Zampella and SEGA’s David Rosen. Elsewhere, a real-life Rainbow Six Siege Robin Hood gifted players millions in in-game currency, and the Indie Game Awards sparked controversy by revoking Expedition 33’s Game of the Year award over its use of generative AI. In the Post Office, we dig into hated gameplay tropes, sim racing rigs, and take an unexpected detour into the Billboard Top 100 hits of 1996.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

We break down Expedition 33’s sweeping dominance at The Game Awards and discuss what the show gets right—and where it still needs to evolve. From surprise wins to pacing and presentation, we explore how the TGAs could better serve both developers and fans going forward. We also dive into the biggest announcements from The Game Awards, including Brad and Micah’s reactions to the Street Fighter movie trailer and the unexpected reveal of Lenny Kravitz as the villain in 007 First Light. Brad is back deep in Diablo IV, testing out the new Paladin class and evaluating how progression and systems have changed since his last time with the game. Does Diablo IV finally feel like it’s found its footing? Kaz Harada’s departure from Bandai Namco marks the end of an era, and we reflect on his 30-year legacy guiding the Tekken franchise into one of the most influential fighting game series of all time. In the Post Office, we tackle the increasingly strange relationship between FIFA and U.S. power brokers, and just how far the organization may be willing to bend to satisfy political egos.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

It’s Dense Pixels’ annual Game of the Year celebration, and we're breaking down the very best games of 2025. We reveal our top 10 lists, debate the titles that earned our podcast-wide consensus honors, and look back at the standout games chosen by our listeners. Join us for our biggest episode of the year as we highlight the releases that defined 2025 and the games we think will leave a lasting impact.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad has been completely derailed by yet another GOTY contender thanks to the release of the high-octane arcade shooter Sektori. Micah has been digging into Marvel Cosmic Invasion, but it may have only made him appreciate Dotemu's other recent release - Absolum - even more. Meanwhile, Brad is learning firsthand why Final Fantasy IV may be the strangest and most experimental entry in the early series. Steam is refusing to publish the indie horror title Horses—and the bigger problem is that they won’t give the developer a clear reason why, raising concerns about transparency and platform control. In a disastrous interview, the CEO of Roblox floated the idea of adding real-life dating and gambling to a platform primarily used by children. Tim Sweeney has once again made himself the main character on social media with another baffling take about generative AI in video games. We wrap up with a wide-ranging Post Office segment covering everything from Thanksgiving dinner traditions to the dramatic conclusion of the Formula One season, and how much Brad and Micah would be willing to spend on the upcoming Steam Machine.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Lumines Arise is finally here, and Brad delivers his full review—explaining why this entry may be the definitive Lumines experience. He’s also been deep into Anno 117: Pax Romana and shares his thoughts on how this historic city-builder stacks up. Valve has announced an exciting slate of new hardware set to release next year. We break down the lineup and which devices Brad plans to pick up on day one. We take a look at The Game Awards 2025 nominees and discuss whether Expedition 33 is receiving more praise than it may deserve. Meanwhile, Tim Sweeney made headlines for publicly embarrassing himself while reacting to Eurogamer’s Arc Raiders review, and even Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 appears to be dipping into generative AI for its development. We touch on the strange situation surrounding Ubisoft suspending share trading and what it might signal. We also give our impressions of the leaked set photos from the upcoming Legend of Zelda movie. To wrap things up, we evaluate IGN and Nintendo Life’s rankings of the greatest Nintendo games of all time—and where we agree, disagree, and outright question their picks.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad and Terrence have successfully dragged Micah into the BallXPit, but the real question is—how much is he actually enjoying it? Square Enix reveals plans to use AI for quality assurance testing by 2027, raising serious questions about whether buggy code can really fix buggy code. We break down what this shift means for developers, players, and the future of game testing. Rockstar Games is once again under fire after firing over 30 employees, with reports suggesting that union-busting may be the real motive behind the mass layoffs. We discuss the implications this has for worker rights across the gaming industry. In a wide-ranging Post Office segment, we chat about diving into PC building for the first time, the realities of fatherhood, and a fun detour into Nicholas Cage.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad takes a break from run-based games and discovers Chained Echoes, a phenomenal old-school-style RPG that blends nostalgic charm with modern design. He shares what makes it one of the most rewarding hidden gems in the genre. Carrie gives a spoiler-free discussion about Hades II, highlighting the smart changes Supergiant Games made to the game’s ending and how it improves on the original's flaws. Micah and Terrence share their disappointment with The Outer Worlds 2, sparking a broader conversation about why Obsidian Entertainment is one of the most polarizing developers in gaming. We also dive into Rockstar Games’ blatant case of union-busting, examining how the company’s actions contradict its public stance on labor rights and developer treatment. Finally, a free-flowing Post Office segment takes us through discussions on the frustrations with sports media rights, WWE’s confusing current strategy, and which foods keep fast food chains alive.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Carrie gives her full review of Pokémon Legends: Z to A after finishing the game, breaking down what works, what doesn’t, and why it might be one of the most ambitious Pokémon titles yet. Terrence delivers his in-depth Ninja Gaiden 4 review, diving into how it compares to previous entries in the series and whether it lives up to the legacy of Team Ninja’s classic action franchise. We discuss Microsoft’s latest questionable strategic moves after revelations that Xbox is chasing an unrealistic 30% profit margin — and what this means for players and developers alike. Meanwhile, the Trump administration and ICE have co-opted yet another beloved video game property for propaganda purposes to advance their racist aims. Ubisoft is asking employees to voluntarily leave before upcoming layoffs, and Nintendo surprises fans with a long-awaited move — releasing a vinyl soundtrack that has collectors buzzing.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad and Terrence are completely hooked on BallXPit and dive into why it’s their latest gaming obsession. They also share their impressions of Absolum and Hades 2, discussing what makes each title stand out. Carrie is deep into her creature-collecting era, splitting time between Digimon Story: Time Stranger and Pokémon Legends: ZtoA. She explains why both games are delivering exactly what fans of the genre have been waiting for. In gaming news, Ubisoft has reportedly canceled a planned Assassin’s Creed game set during the Reconstruction era. We discuss why this decision feels cowardly, the industry’s reluctance to handle meaningful historical topics, and whether Ubisoft could have been trusted to do it justice in the first place. We also remember legendary developer Tomonobu Itagaki following his passing, discuss concerning Nintendo and Discord hacks shaking the industry, and ask the hard-hitting question: why can’t America get Street Fighter-themed burgers?

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Micah has been completely consumed by Ghost of Yotei and breaks down how it improves on its predecessor. He explains what’s new, what’s changed, and why this follow-up has him more hooked than ever. Brad has a public service announcement for gamers: stay away from Megabonk if you value your free time! He explains why this deceptively addictive game might derail your entire gaming schedule. We also dive into the biggest news of the week — Xbox’s shocking 50% price hike for Game Pass Ultimate. We analyze what’s behind Microsoft’s strategy, how it impacts players, and whether this could alienate their most loyal fan base. Finally, Capcom manages to fumble with a major misstep as they plan to charge pay-per-view rates for major tournaments — a move so controversial that even Street Fighter 6’s director is publicly criticizing it.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

We’re once again packed with fresh game impressions, including Metroid Prime Remastered, Deep Rock Galactic Survivor, and Borderlands 4. The spotlight shines on Hades 2, as Carrie shares her thoughts after rolling credits and why this sequel is dominating the conversation. The biggest bombshell of the week: the Saudi Arabian government, alongside Jared Kushner, has purchased Electronic Arts for $55 billion. We dive into what this means for EA’s immediate outlook—and why it could spell serious trouble for the publisher’s long-term future. Microsoft has raised hardware prices yet again, fueling frustrations about gaming affordability. Meanwhile, Doug Bowser is officially retiring from Nintendo - was he really there for only 6 years? We also break down the latest news in entertainment and gaming, including the casting of the next James Bond and why Monster Hunter Wilds has us stepping back—for now.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

This week we break down the massive Nintendo Direct, packed with major announcements including a Super Mario Galaxy series re-release, Mario Tennis Fever, Hades 2’s 1.0 release, a Dragon Quest VII remake, and the long-awaited release date for Metroid Prime 4 Beyond. Oh, and yes—the Virtual Boy is back in some form. Steam has added new restrictions after pressure from payment processors, now banning early access games with adult content. We discuss why this is another step toward broader video game censorship. Fortnite has introduced a big change to how players purchase V-Bucks, and it’s a consumer-friendly move we hope more publishers adopt. Meanwhile, Sega is caught in one of the strangest stories of the year—using the London Police Department to harass a random individual after their own corporate screw-up. We wrap up with a fun Post Office segment where we talk about our favorite video game side quests, along with our favorite video game books.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

This week we’re loaded with game impressions, covering everything from Touhou Farming ~ Minoriko’s Homestead Harvest and Everybody's Golf: Hot Shots to Donkey Kong Bananza, Timberborn, SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance, Metal Gear Solid 3 Delta, and Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Hollow Knight: Silksong has been the biggest talking point in gaming, and Terrence shares his hands-on impressions. We dive into the massive player counts at launch and debate whether Silksong’s incredible value might actually be hurting other indie developers. In a surprising move, the Saudi government has acquired a controlling stake in the EVO tournament. We discuss what this means for the fighting game community and future competition. Nintendo has won a lawsuit against a modder who chose to represent themselves in court, leading to disastrous results. Finally, Micah and Brad break down the extended gameplay reveal for 007: First Light.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Micah’s Donkey Kong Bananza adventure has hit a roadblock—his son has now taken over the game, leaving him stuck early on in the journey. Brad is attempting to use Beat Saber as an alternative way into fitness after a long battle with disinterest in exercise. Can VR rhythm gaming actually help build healthy habits? The crew breaks down last week’s Gamescom event, which left them feeling underwhelmed by most announcements. Has the AAA industry drifted too far from what we actually want? The biggest headline of the week came from the long-awaited reveal of Hollow Knight: Silksong’s release date, and it’s arriving sooner than expected. Sony has finally raised the price of the PlayStation 5 in the U.S., citing tariff pressures. We explore what this means for consumers and the broader console market. We also cover weeks of upheaval at Cloud Chamber, the current Bioshock developer, and the addition of Rod Fergusson to steady the project. This sparks a deeper conversation about why so few games strive to deliver meaningful narratives despite the medium’s storytelling potential. In the Post Office, we dive into legendary gaming myths and the shocking ringside behavior of Raja Jackson at a recent wrestling show.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad has fully immersed himself in Cities: Skylines, but now he faces a big question—stick with the beloved original or make the leap to Cities: Skylines II, which is currently plagued with technical and performance issues. We dive into a troubling new report on Microsoft, which details the company’s role in supplying Israeli intelligence with cloud computing services. Despite public statements, the report alleges Microsoft knows exactly how its technology is being used. Internal pressure is also mounting, as an Arkane Studios union publicly criticized Microsoft’s cooperation with Israel. Nexon finds itself in controversy after The First Descendant ad campaign was caught using the likenesses of several streamers without their permission, sparking backlash across the gaming community. Finally, we look at Sony’s latest statements regarding Marathon, which suggest the highly anticipated game may be rushed to release.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad reviews two more of Digital Eclipse’s standout “docu-games” with in-depth impressions of Atari 50 and Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story, highlighting how these playable documentaries preserve game history in fresh, innovative ways. Carrie is deep into the Shin Megami Tensei multiverse, giving updates on her time with Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance and Raidou Kuzunoha Remastered. We break down the biggest announcements from the latest Nintendo Partner Direct, including reveals for Monster Hunter Stories 3 and Octopath Traveler 0. In baffling hardware news, US tariffs have triggered a bizarre price increase on the original Nintendo Switch. We explain why this move was both predictable and unnecessary. Microsoft has become the top-selling third-party publisher on PlayStation, reinforcing the growing belief that console exclusivity may be fading into irrelevance. Meanwhile, Tencent may soon owe Sony big, as their game Light of Motiram is facing backlash for being a blatant clone of Horizon Zero Dawn. Finally, we talk about the Summerslam main event and why WWE seems determined to push away a portion of its core fanbase.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

We’re still deep into Donkey Kong Bananza! Brad has already rolled credits, while Micah shares his early impressions of what could be the best game of 2025. The controversy surrounding the censorship of adult video games has now extended to Itch.io, where limited moderation resources have forced even broader content removals. Even worse, the backlash has led to journalistic censorship at Vice Media. We dive into a larger conversation about the dangers of censorship and the ongoing collapse of corporate-owned media as a credible news source. In a staggering case of self-sabotage, 1049 Games has effectively unreleased Splitgate 2, citing waning player interest and mismanagement. We unpack what went wrong. Microsoft appears to have walked back its decision to price The Outer Wilds 2 at $80, possibly due to underwhelming pre-order numbers. We explore what this reversal means for future AAA pricing strategies. We close with a candid discussion on the death of Hulk Hogan and our unfiltered thoughts on his legacy—both inside and outside the wrestling ring.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

We’re going absolutely bananas over Donkey Kong Bananza! We kick things off by gushing over Nintendo’s latest generational game and why we can't put it down. Valve has begun removing certain adult games from the Steam marketplace due to pressure from payment processors. We discuss how this sets a dangerous precedent for video game censorship and why it’s a slippery slope that players and creators alike should be watching closely. Ubisoft is back in the headlines for all the wrong reasons as Charlie Guillemot—yes, the CEO’s son—is appointed to lead their new Tencent-backed subsidiary. Generative AI continues its concerning rise in game development. Steam is reporting an 800% year-over-year increase in games disclosing GenAI usage. We also highlight the tragic irony of recently laid-off King developers who unknowingly trained the very tools that replaced them. In this week’s Post Office, what games do we wish we could delete from existence?

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad shares why Patapon 1+2 Replay stirs nostalgia for a bygone era of creative, experimental gaming from AAA publishers and why the industry may be worse off without it. We explore Roblox's massive influence on the modern gaming landscape, from platform dominance to its role in shaping young gamers’ habits and expectations. The Subnautica 2 controversy takes center stage as we break down how publisher Krafton appears to have delayed early access to dodge a $250 million payout to Unknown Worlds. We discuss the looming threat of Buy Now, Pay Later services entering the gaming space and how they will likely exploit the players most vulnerable to predatory monetization and microtransaction spending. In the Post Office, we debate whether the world actually needs a Superman video game and why WWE may be sabotaging their own momentum by not properly capitalizing on their current success.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Even amid widespread tech layoffs, Microsoft managed to surprise the industry by cutting over 9,000 employees last week—its fourth major layoff in just 18 months. We explore the impact on Xbox, why AAA game development keeps fueling these cycles, and what the Xbox brand might represent going forward. Helldivers 2 is heading to Xbox. Is Sony starting a new trend? EA appears to be setting up the next Battlefield title to fail—and possibly on purpose. 11bitstudios is under fire for using undisclosed generative AI in The Alters. We explain why this story is a new concern for folks who are opposed to the use of these tools in games. Borderlands 4 may win back long-time fans thanks to a crucial design change from Gearbox. Brad shares why Foundation might be his “just right” city builder in a crowded genre. In the Post Office, we dive into Street Fighter movie casting rumors and debate whether this upcoming trainwreck could still be worth watching.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

It’s a community show this week, but first we dive into the games we’ve been playing.
Terrence shares his love-hate relationship with REMATCH, calling it both his most beloved and most infuriating game of the year. He also gives quick takes on FBC Firebreak and Lost in Random: The Eternal Die.

Brad compares two action-packed brawlers—Midnight Fight Express and Dead as Disco—before digging into strategy with a breakdown of Age of Wonders: Planetfall versus Age of Wonders 4 to determine which entry speaks to him most.

Carrie finally got her hands on Mario Kart World and is returning to Pokémon Scarlet, now running much smoother thanks to the Switch 2.

Then we dive into listener questions from the Post Office, talking albums that peak early, the creepiest video game villains, and why Gen Z gravitates toward sandbox experiences.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Terrence has been diving into the new base-building game The Alters and shares his early impressions, along with his thoughts on Metaphor: ReFantazio, Dense Pixels' 2024 Game of the Year. Brad is working through his backlog and enjoying both Manor Lords and Shapez 2, with plenty of praise to go around.

In news, we cover the massive launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, the end of the SAG-AFTRA strike against major game publishers, and Embracer Group’s Lars Wingefors conveniently stepping into a new role that still gives him influence—likely not for the better.

Then, in the Post Office, we go deep on the current WWE product and explore why recent portrayals of Black wrestlers may not be as progressive as they seem.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

We’ve all finally gotten our hands on the Nintendo Switch 2 — even Micah — and we share our first impressions of the new console, along with thoughts on Mario Kart World and whether now is the right time to buy one.

Summer Game Fest just wrapped, and we start by breaking down the one presentation that stood out for all the wrong reasons, plus what it says about the current state of the AAA gaming industry.

We also highlight all of the games that grabbed our attention, including 007: First Light, The Outer Worlds 2, Persona 4 Revival, Clockwork Revolution, LUMINES Arise, Ratatan, The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, Resident Evil Requiem, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls, and many more.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

***CLAIR OBSCUR: EXPEDITION 33 SPOILER WARNING***

With news being light this week, we dive deep into Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. We explore the elements that make it stand out, what lessons we hope other developers learn from it, and give a full breakdown of the game's characters. Of course, we also unpack the ending and examine the major themes that run throughout this compelling title.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Terrence shares his quick impressions of Doom: The Dark Ages and makes a surprise return to Dragon Age: Inquisition. Did he finally make it out of The Hinterlands this time? We dive into the controversy surrounding Bungie, as the studio is once again caught plagiarizing art. With morale reportedly low and Marathon in a precarious state, we discuss what the future might look like for Bungie moving forward. In the Post Office, we reflect on how we've changed as gamers over the years and share the narrative tropes in media that instantly ruin the experience for us.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

It’s a light news week, so we open the floodgates for a massive edition of the Post Office. We dig into our favorite independent media outlets, whether Jacob Fatu is officially invited to the cookout, and the most overrated bands in music history. Brad has found another hidden gem with Drop Duchy—a puzzle game dressed up as a Tetris-inspired roguelite that deserves more attention. We share our excitement about the resurrection of Giant Bomb as a worker-owned, independent games media outlet, and what that means for the future of games journalism. PalWorld is quietly scaling back its more obvious Pokémon inspirations—exactly the ending we all expected in its looming legal standoff with Nintendo.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad has reached the endgame in Last Epoch and confirms it has the juice for ARPG fans. Terrence gives his full review of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 now that he's beaten it, and explains why he’s diving back into Avowed. Grand Theft Auto VI has been delayed to next year—but does anyone on the panel actually care? Microsoft raises prices across the board for Xbox hardware and first-party games. We discuss what this means for the future of console pricing and why Microsoft may have jumped ahead of Sony. A brutal week in games media sees the effective end of both Polygon and Giant Bomb. We reflect on the corporate failures in the media and games industries, and how independent creators continue to lead by example.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remaster arrived unexpectedly, and Carrie and Terrence share their thoughts on how well it holds up today. Micah, Brad, and Terrence have all jumped into Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Is the game living up to the buzz and lofty expectations? We also offer our impressions of Promise Mascot Agency and Last Epoch, and how each stacks up in their respective genres. Finally, we recap WrestleMania 41—which matches delivered, which disappointed, and what the outcomes could mean for WWE's future direction.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad shares his impressions of Blue Prince, diving into what makes the game engaging for him while explaining why it might not be a must-play for everyone—even with Game of the Year buzz. Terrence wraps up South of Midnight, and he and Micah discuss how the game stands out as a powerful and positive representation of Black culture in gaming. Tariff relief might be on the horizon for the U.S., but game consoles are notably excluded. We examine what this means for the Switch 2 preorder landscape and how Sony is adjusting its pricing strategy globally, including PlayStation 5 price hikes in some markets to offset U.S. losses. We also preview WrestleMania weekend and share why it’s looking like one of the weaker cards in recent memory.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders have been delayed in the US and Canada due to new tariffs, throwing a wrench in the planned release schedule. Nintendo claims that the $449 launch price for the Switch 2 did not factor in the potential impact of tariffs, raising questions about future price stability. We give our early impressions of South of Midnight and Atomfall and how they're shaping up ahead of release. Brad reviews the math-meets-madness chaos of Nubby's Number Factory. Micah gives his full review of Assassin’s Creed Shadows—what’s working, what isn’t, and how it stacks up to past entries. Ubisoft has quietly formed a new subsidiary with Tencent to handle the business side of their most profitable franchises.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

We finally have all the details on the Nintendo Switch 2, and we break down everything from the Switch 2 Direct. We discuss the specs, price, and whether it's a day 1 purchase for any of us. We give our impressions of the games revealed during the presentation, including Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, The Duskbloods, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, and many more. We also dive into last week’s Nintendo Direct, where the original Switch is getting its final big games—like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

We're still deep in the Forbidden Lands of Monster Hunter Wilds, grinding our way through the latest hunts. Reports suggest an Xbox handheld could be coming this year. We discuss what it might look like and whether it could shake up the current gaming hardware landscape. SAG-AFTRA continues its fight against AI in the voice acting industry, raising concerns about the future of human talent in games. Many developers are skipping GDC due to the U.S.'s treatment of foreign visitors, potentially impacting one of the biggest networking events in gaming. In the Post Office, we dive into the best—and most insane—video game advertisements we've ever seen.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad and Carrie are fully immersed in Monster Hunter Wilds, and even Micah is feeling the Monster Hunter FOMO… but is he finally hooked? Brad has discovered Two-Point Museum and regrets to inform everyone that he has a new obsession that will consume dozens of hours. Terrence has realized that Game Pass is actually a great value for him and shares his impressions of Ninja Gaiden 2 Black and Diablo IV. We also dive into several tangents in the Post Office, including our thoughts on the John Cena heel turn and the absolute worst MLB caps we’ve ever seen.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

The James Bond franchise now creatively resides with Amazon, and Micah and Brad have some thoughts on what this could mean for the series.Carrie has been playing the Warsong update in Hades 2 and is mighty impressed with the new content.Carrie also gives her impressions of the demo for Promise Mascot Agency and what makes it stand out.Brad may have discovered another hidden Capcom gem in Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess.Microsoft made waves with the announcement of its generative-AI model Muse, but will it actually have a meaningful impact on game development?Sony held a State of Play presentation, and we share our thoughts on Saros, Borderlands 4, Digimon Story Time Stranger, and more.Rumors suggest NetEase may be making a heavy divestiture from some notable studios.Niantic may be selling Pokémon Go and Monster Hunter Now to the Saudi government, raising concerns about the future of these mobile juggernauts.We discuss the worst gaming peripherals we’ve ever owned.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad played a ton of Sid Meier's Civilization VII and explains why he’s loving the new additions to the gameplay. He also breaks down why this might be the best entry point for new Civ players.PlayStation Network was mysteriously down for almost a whole day, and Sony isn’t explaining why.Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick might be the most unexpected person to make a fantastic point about AI and its role in gaming.Football Manager 25 has been canceled, and surprisingly, it’s for a pro-consumer reason.The ESA has announced the "iicon" conference—though we discuss whether anyone really needs to care.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Terrence is back on the show and shares his shift to the mini PC space for gaming, along with the slew of roguelikes he's been playing. Brad is feeling a bit ambivalent about the run-based tower defense game Dome Keeper. Micah might not be teaching the best lessons as he shows his son how to play Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit. Carrie is working on a video game soundtrack.Bioware seems to be on its last legs as EA lays off and transfers a large chunk of the studio. Will we actually see a new Mass Effect, and if we do, will it live up to expectations? Dr Disrespect’s game studio has shut down, but unsurprisingly, he’ll land on his feet on YouTube. Multiversus is shutting down for good this time.Any lingering belief in Xbox exclusivity has died with the announcement that Forza Horizon 5 is coming to PlayStation. The founder of God is a Geek fooled around and found out. We share our impressions of the Royal Rumble and talk about ways we destress in these stressful times.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Carrie is back from an unforgettable MAGfest and brings a hardware review of the MAGfest Swadge. Coincidentally, Brad also has a hardware review, sharing his excitement over the Playdate console. Unfortunately, we're once again discussing industry layoffs, this time at Ubisoft and Phoenix Labs. Sony has pulled the plug on live service projects from Bend Studios and Bluepoint. Microsoft's developer showcase delivered big surprises, including the unexpected reveal of Ninja Gaiden 4. Meanwhile, Marvel Snap found itself caught in the crossfire of TikTok's performative compliance efforts. We close things out with our Royal Rumble predictions.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad has been diving into Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, and it’s absolutely fantastic. Carrie shares her thoughts on Sonic x Shadow Generations and explains why Sonic fans are eating good right now. Awesome Games Done Quick wraps up an incredible event, raising $2.5 million for charity. Ubisoft delays Assassin's Creed Shadow again and attempts to justify the move with questionable reasoning. We also share our 2025 gaming resolutions and discuss the swirling rumors of an imminent Switch 2 announcement.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

We’re back from the holiday break, and we’ve been diving into some incredible games! Carrie has joined the crew in tackling the epic Metaphor ReFantazio. We share our impressions of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, and Okami HD. The PEGI ratings board delivers a hilariously misguided content rating for Balatro. Meanwhile, we discuss the surprising revelation that at least one NFL owner uses Madden NFL Football to evaluate player acquisitions. Finally, we explore why publishers are more likely to take lessons from the failure of Concord than the success of Marvel Rivals.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

We recap the 2024 Game Awards, which somehow turned out to be one of the best video game shows…ever? From our takes on the winners to a breakdown of the smorgasbord of world premiere trailers, we dive into everything that made the night unforgettable. Ubisoft strikes again with the planned shutdown of their multiplayer shooter xDefiant, and we discuss how it went so wrong. Plus, a surprising connection between video games, Baltimore, and the alleged CEO shooter.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

It’s our 2024 Game of the Year show! We dive into the games that defined our year and brought us the most joy, excitement, and surprises. Which title will take home the coveted Dense Pixels Game of the Year award? Tune in to hear our top picks, honorable mentions, and the ultimate winner of 2024.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

It’s a lighter week in the wake of winter, but there’s plenty to discuss. MIcah caved and bought Star Wars Outlaws; How is he liking it? Brad recommends spatial puzzle game Humanity. Elon Musk claims he wants to save video games by creating an AI-focused gaming studio, and we explore why this idea—and Musk himself—deserves skepticism. Valve is facing a class-action lawsuit over its Steam commission structure, leading to a broader conversation about how Valve could reshape their business to better support the gaming industry as a whole. Finally, a massive Dense Pixels Post Office segment features our thoughts on using exploits in games and a look back at which games got traed in the quickest during our GameStop careers.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Micah has finished Dragon Age: The Veilguard and shares whether the game improved from his initial impressions and who it’s best suited for. Brad returns to VR, throwing punches in Batman: Arkham VR, and finally dives into the Peggle-roguelike Peglin, which he’s finding utterly delightful. Brad also takes on crime in dystopian Detroit while playing Robocop: Rogue City. Sony is making waves with an attempt to acquire anime giant Kadokawa, a move that would effectively give them control over FromSoftware. The PlayStation Portal receives a long-awaited update, while rumors swirl about Sony entering the premium handheld console market. Lastly, Micah and Brad discuss their frustrations with AEW storytelling following Full Gear.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

We break down the 2024 Game Awards nominee slate and address the controversy surrounding Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree’s nominations. Micah surprises everyone by playing—and enjoying—Balatro. Brad shares his experience with the interactive museum-style game Tetris Forever and gives his impressions of The Rise of the Golden Idol, calling it a stellar follow-up to the original. GOG continues to stand out as a rare advocate for preserving classic video games. Nintendo is back in the courtroom, this time targeting a game pirate flaunting their actions. Finally, we analyze the impact of looming U.S. tariffs on the console market and how they may reshape buying habits.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Micah shares his in-depth impressions of Dragon Age: The Veilguard, detailing how this game stands apart within the Dragon Age series but noting that it might not appeal to every fan, possibly even himself. We analyze the shutdown of Firewalk Studios, discussing who bears responsibility for the failure of Concord. Additionally, we dive into the implications of the recent QA walkout at Activision Blizzard and how it’s influencing remote work dynamics in the industry. Ubisoft is at it again, launching a new NFT game that shows just how attuned they are to current trends. Lastly, we ponder why insurance companies consistently produce the most memorable TV commercials.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Micah shares his thoughts on the official Dragon Age: Vows and Vengeance podcast and expresses concerns about the direction of The Veilguard. He also dives into Metaphor ReFantazio, discussing how it evolves the Shin Megami Tensei/Persona formula. Brad is deeply immersed in the new Diablo IV endgame content, particularly enjoying the challenges in the Kurast Undercity and Dark Citadel areas. Meanwhile, Netflix faces challenges in gaming as it closes Blue Studios, highlighting the difficulties for media companies in the gaming space. The ESA has once again blocked efforts to advance video game preservation, sparking further debate. Roblox finally makes strides toward better protections for young users amidst increased scrutiny. We also consider if Nintendo’s MMO playtest was intentionally leaked. Plus, Tim Walz impresses by showing off his Crazy Taxi skills.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad shares his experiences with more demos from Steam Next Fest, diving into why the Zachtronics Solitaire Collection has been capturing his attention. Carrie provides her early thoughts on the Olympus update for Hades II, offering insight into its latest changes. Meanwhile, Vampire Survivors is coming full circle with an exciting announcement: a new Castlevania-themed DLC called Ode to Castlevania. We also discuss the potential impacts of Trump's proposed tariffs on video game consoles and recent reports surrounding Bandai Namco's controversial employee "expulsion rooms."

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad shares his thoughts on Metaphor: ReFantazio after spending significant time with it, highlighting the evolution of the battle system and the integration of social links into party development. He also dives into the Diablo IV expansion Vessel of Hatred, discussing the improvements made to the game's systems and leveling. Nintendo's latest hardware release is an unexpected motion-sensing alarm clock called Alarmo, and we discuss its potential impact. We explore the wider ramifications of Epic Games' recent success against Google in court and what it could mean for the gaming industry. Meanwhile, The Pokémon Company experienced a massive data breach, revealing unused monster designs and game source code. Finally, we debate whether we'll ever see another proper Phantasy Star game from Sega.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

We share our impressions of the Metaphor: ReFantazio demo as we anticipate its full release. Carrie dives into why the Monster Hunter Stories games are underrated gems in the turn-based RPG genre. Brad has more thoughts on UFO 50 and why he expects it to rank among his top games of 2024. Ubisoft is in turmoil with a delay to Assassin's Creed: Shadows and a steep drop in their share price. We discuss how the publisher ended up in this situation and what could be the best path forward for them. Meanwhile, Microsoft has fans excited as they look to revitalize the Halo franchise with the transition to Unreal Engine 5.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Sony has announced the PlayStation 5 Pro at the staggering price of $700. We debate whether we’re planning to get one and if this signals the future of console pricing. Sony’s State of Play brought several big announcements, with the standout reveal being the Ghost of Tsushima sequel, Ghost of Yotei. Brad shares his impressions on the quirky game collection UFO 50. Additionally, we discuss the industry’s recent layoffs, Unity canceling its controversial fees, and Nintendo Switch 2 leaks and rumors.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Micah is about to dive deep into the Warhammer 40,000 universe as he begins his journey with Space Marine 2. Meanwhile, Brad is not playing Space Marine because he's been engrossed in Astro Bot and has a lot to say—though he's holding back to avoid spoilers. He's also been spending some time with Age of Mythology. We also discuss the recent agreement between SAG-AFTRA and a developer over the use of AI, the persistent harassment faced by female players online, and the Days Gone director's frustration over the portrayal of his game's protagonist. Finally, we have thoughts on AEW's penchant for extreme violence, particularly following the controversial All Out event.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

In this episode, we discuss Sony's surprising decision to quickly delist the troubled shooter Concord and whether we think it will return as a free-to-play title or if it's gone for good. We also dive into Randy Pitchford's...interesting comparison of Gearbox Software to The Beatles and the recent layoffs at Rocksteady following the underperformance of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. Additionally, we touch on the ongoing contract disputes between unionized staff at Raven Software and Activision. Brad, fully immersed in strategy games, shares his impressions of XCOM 2 and Songs of Conquest. To wrap things up, Brad celebrates the recent Oasis reunion announcement by discussing his favorite songs from the band.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

In this episode, we react to the exciting announcements from Gamescom, with a particular focus on Monster Hunter Wilds and Sid Meier's Civilization VII. We discuss the overwhelming success of Black Myth: Wukong on Steam and how its achievements are somewhat overshadowed by the controversial instructions given to content creators. We also delve into Concord's disappointing initial response on PC, questioning the future of this new hero shooter. Meanwhile, Carrie shares her positive impressions of the early access farm sim Fields of Mistria. Finally, we extend the episode with an in-depth Q&A session in the Dense Pixels Post Office.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

In this episode, we discuss the recent controversy surrounding The Verge and its decision to publish information about Valve’s secret shooter Deadlock. We also touch on the unusual request from the Black Myth: Wukong studio, asking influencers to avoid including feminist propaganda or COVID-19 references in their coverage. Micah expresses his ongoing frustrations with Fortnite and why the game never seems to sit right with him. We wildly speculate as to what Dreamcast game VP candidate Tim Walz was into that got his console taken away. Finally, Brad shares his experience venturing into the expansive world of Stellaris.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

In this episode, we delve into the critical juncture facing WB Games as they consider whether to start licensing their IPs and exit game development or potentially sell off their studios. This discussion comes amid significant industry changes, including BioWare's reflections on lessons learned from Anthem and Meta's decision to shut down Ready at Dawn.

We also explore the inspiring story of Balatro developer localthunk, who has taken unique steps to protect his game's integrity after his death. Additionally, we examine the disappointing box office performance of the Borderlands movie and Brad's thoughts on why Homeworld fell short for him within the 4X grand strategy genre.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

This week, we recap the tumultuous events at Bungie. The company laid off over 200 employees, a move that has sparked discussions about their possible misleading of Sony before the acquisition. We explore why Pete Parsons, Bungie's CEO, deserves a significant portion of the blame and argue that leadership should bear greater responsibility in such crises. We also speculate on the future of Bungie's properties currently in development.

Meanwhile, EA Sports reveals their "integration" of AI and machine learning into the upcoming College Football 25 game. Intel announces a significant layoff of 15,000 jobs, marking it as one of the most consequential changes in its history. Additionally, Game Informer magazine is closing its doors after 33 years, marking the end of an era in gaming journalism.


Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

The crew recaps the highlights from EVO 2024. Video game actors confirm strike action over AI concerns. Bethesda and Activision Blizzard employees have successfully unionized, creating the largest video game unions in the game industry to date. Humble Games shutters as Ziff Davis reckons with the challenges of publishing in the game industry and why media corporations might not be a good fit for that business. Sony’s Concord open beta on Steam didn’t go well, drawing widespread criticism. The FTC claims Xbox’s Game Pass price hike is consumer harm it warned about. Netflix is developing over 80 games, planning to launch one each month. Ubisoft addresses the Japanese community’s concerns regarding Assassin’s Creed: Shadows in the wake of continued concern trolling from the worst areas of the internet. Finally, Brad gives a review of the brief but charming puzzler Donut County.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Xbox Game Pass is getting price increases and a standard tier with no day-one releases, which leads us to a tangent about how Nintendo is about the only game maker who could possibly get away with this. Microsoft says plainly in a new ad that you don’t need an Xbox to play Xbox games. An indie game publisher notably explains how they prioritize developer health over profits. External translators hired for Nintendo projects bemoan lack of credit in almost every big title. Brad gives even more impressions on Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader and finds surprising comparisons with the Mass Effect series.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Carrie takes a trip to the Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail expansion and explains why some of the criticism of the new content is off the mark, and the best way for new players to enter the game. Summer Games Done Quick raises over $2.5 million, taking its lifetime total beyond $50 million (also a dog hit a homer in Ken Griffey Jr Presents Major League Baseball). Apex Legends is evolving its battle pass by splitting it in two and charging players twice in a naked greed play by EA. Brad raves about Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader and explains why it's a great introduction to the 40K universe.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Dr Disrespect admits Twitch ban due to messages with minor in the direction of being inappropriate. Dr Disrespect continued to send sexually explicit messages to minor after their age was known, former Twitch employee says. Donkey Kong could have been called Kong Dong, Nintendo court documents state.Brad returns to Art of Rally and finds a lot to love in this minimalist rally racer. We prognosticate who will win the briefcases at Money in the Bank this weekend. 

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Brad and Carrie discuss the demos that stood out to them during the most recent Steam Next Fest. Brad is checking out space grand strategy civ Endless Space 2. Elden Ring publisher calls out Shadow of the Erdtree players struggling with the difficulty of the DLC. Carrie gives her impressions of thatgamecompany's newest release, Sky: Children of Light.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

We react to the summer Nintendo Direct, including thoughts on Metroid Prime 4 footage, Mario & Luigi Brothership, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, and the shocking return of Marvel vs Capcom 2. We discuss Epic acknowledging the issue with Fortnite's free cars being more dangerous than paid ones. Paradox Interactive cancels Life by You. Meme clicker game Banana nears 850,000 concurrent players - why is this happening? Carrie details why Shin Megami Tensai V: Vengeance is a great jumping-in point for the series.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

The crew shares their overall impressions of the major presentations from this year's Summer Game Fest. We then dive into the games we're most excited about from the event, including Astro Bot, Assassin's Creed: Shadows, Wanderstop, UFO50, Possessor(s), Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Dragon Age: Veilguard, Street Fighter 6 Season 2, Gears of War: E-Day, Perfect Dark, Sonic x Shadow Generations, Monster Hunter Wilds, and Metaphor: Re Fantazio.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

In this episode, we discuss the faux outrage surrounding the Assassin's Creed Shadows announcement, highlighting how the situation is both amusing and sad. Carrie and Brad share their most anticipated games for the remainder of 2024. Microsoft executives are reportedly advocating for a flexible approach regarding which Xbox games can launch on PlayStation. Sony names two new CEOs to replace Jim Ryan. Take-Two's boss claims that the publisher has not shut down the studios behind OlliOlli and Kerbal Space Program 2. Brad talks about the incredible fun he is having with the new Diablo IV season and the Loot Reborn update.

Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

In this episode, Brad and Carrie dive deeper into their experiences with Hades II early access, sharing more detailed thoughts after spending additional time in the game. Brad explores V Rising but questions if survival games are his thing. Carrie returns to the Capital Wasteland, revisiting Fallout 3 after several years.

The gaming industry faces significant changes as Xbox shuts down several Bethesda studios, including the developers of Redfall and Hi-Fi Rush. Arkane's boss criticizes Microsoft executives for these closures. Xbox Studios' boss emphasizes the need for smaller, award-winning games, despite closing Tango Gameworks. Xbox President addresses the studio closures, stressing the long-term health of the business. Discussions around Call of Duty on Game Pass and a potential price hike are ongoing. Concerns about Xbox leadership's consistency in rewarding success versus failure are raised.

In other news, Helldivers 2 receives overwhelmingly positive reviews. Sony issues refunds for Ghost of Tsushima PC orders after implementing a new PSN requirement. EA's CEO discusses the interest in using AI to speed up game development and the potential inclusion of in-game ads in AAA titles. GameStop considers buying graded Pokémon Trading Card Game singles.


Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Supergiant Games surprised everyone by releasing Hades II in early access, and Brad shares his initial impressions of this highly anticipated title, which is poised to become one of the year's biggest hits. Additionally, Brad uncovers a hidden gem in Minishoot Adventures, as we wonder why we don't see more games dip into the classic Zelda-style well. 

Meanwhile, we delve into the absurdity of the Helldivers II saga, recounting the series of events that led to its controversial week and Sony's complete own goal for no real tangible gain

In other industry news, there's upheaval at Private Division as the vast majority of its staff reportedly face layoffs by Take-Two. Square Enix also appears to have canceled games, signaling a shift towards a more selective approach in the future.


Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

Micah shares his impressions of two exciting games, Tales of Kenzara: Zau and Stellar Blade. However, the mood shifts when we inform Micah about the online discourse surrounding Stellar Blade's main character, Eve. Meanwhile, Carrie delves deeper into Final Fantasy VII Remake, offering her thoughts on a key aspect of the game's progression. In industry news, we discuss the reluctance of game publishers to support libraries for preserving online games. Shifting gears, we engage in a lively debate as we draft our picks for the best 32/64-bit game console, inviting listeners to weigh in on who chose the best one.




Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).

In our milestone 500th episode, we celebrate with some exciting updates! Carrie surprises us all by revealing her newfound role in a metal band and shares her exhilarating experience performing at VGM Con in Minnesota. Meanwhile, we dive into industry news, including Embracer's plan to split into three companies, with highlights on Middle Earth Enterprises and Friends. Additionally, we discuss Ghost of Tsushima's milestone as the first PlayStation game to offer PC trophy support. Carrie also expresses her enthusiasm for the new Amazon Prime Fallout show. In legal news, we cover 2K's victory in a lawsuit brought by LeBron James' tattoo artist and Take-Two's recent layoffs, despite earlier claims of no current plans for layoffs. To cap off the episode, we reminisce about our listeners' favorite moments from the first 500 episodes of Dense Pixels.




Dense Pixels is a weekly video game podcast covering gaming news, game reviews, and industry analysis. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, we break down the latest game releases, PlayStation and Xbox news, Nintendo Switch, PC gaming, Steam, Game Pass, fighting games, RPGs, esports, retro gaming, and the business side of the gaming industry. Hosted by Brad, Micah, Carrie, and Terrence. A TNP Studios production. New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. Join our Discord at densepixels.com/fans. For more TNP Studios content, check out The Nerdpocalypse (movie & TV news), Black on Black Cinema (Black film reviews), and Look Forward (progressive politics).