Couch Co-op: A Video Game Podcast

The boys celebrate the spooky season by reviewing a small collection of horror demos and then sharing thoughts on a wide array of horror themed video games. Recorded 10/21/2025.

The boys are joined by Trevor from the Catching Up On Cinema podcast to discuss movies that they would like to see turned into video games. Recorded 10/8/2025.

AI Generated Chapter List

00:00 Introduction and Anticipation

05:51 Planning the Podcast Topic

12:01 Diving into Video Games

18:08 Exploring Indie Horror Games

24:40 Diving into Baldur's Gate 3

30:01 The Challenge of Honor Mode

37:49 Movies and TV Series as Video Games

50:37 Godzilla: A Game Concept

01:00:07 Game Mechanics and Design Ideas

01:10:51 Exploring Alternate Storylines

01:19:58 Fury...

The boys discuss video games that took started slow but picked up momentum along the way. Recorded 9/22/2025.

AI Generated Chapter List

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Slow Rollers in Gaming

07:19 Exploring Baldur's Gate 3 Experience

11:46 Contrasting Role-Playing Experiences: Diablo 4 vs. Baldur's Gate 3

14:48 Disappointment in Mortal Kombat 1

20:10 Diving into Lies of P

20:58 Jack's Indie Game Highlights

25:01 Nostalgia and Hidden Gems in Sports Friends

26:18 Jack's Experience with Silksong

28:51 The Journey Begins: UFO 50 and Slow Rolling Games

33:15 Exploring...

The boys share their thoughts on insects (bugs) in video games. Recorded 9/6/2025.

The boys weigh in on the 2012 edition of the "Spike Video Game Awards." Recorded 8/24/2025. AI Generated Chapter List Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter 03:34 Current Gaming Experiences 20:29 Looking Back at the 2012 Video Game Awards 32:20 Best Performance and Game Categories 59:42 Reflections on Game Studios and Industry Trends 01:21:05 Final Thoughts on 2012 Gaming Landscape

The boys discuss maps in video games from a variety of perspectives. Recorded 8/11/2025. AI Generated Chapter List 00:00 Technical Difficulties and Introductions 03:00 Navigating Video Game Maps 05:59 The Importance of the 'Glue Guy' in Gaming 09:00 Gaming Experiences and Recent Plays 11:58 Exploring New Game Releases 12:59 Diving into Maps in Video Games 19:40 Exploring Game Builds and Strategies 21:29 Beta Testing and Multiplayer Experiences 23:39 Challenging Boss Fights in Gaming 24:50 The Frustration of Difficult Games 28:35 Doom: The Dark Ages and Its Unique Mechanics 34:01 The Importance of Maps in Gaming 40:46 Navigating Complex Game Worlds 52:38 Exploring the Fog of War in Elden Ring 55:37 The Art of Map Navigation 01:00:01 Crafting...

Matt and Jack team up without resident "Glue Guy" Dave to discuss "Nine Sols" and other games with parry mechanics. Recorded 8/4/2025

AI Generated Chapter List

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Gaming Updates

03:24 Project Zomboid: Survival and Hilarious Deaths

06:59 Exploring New Games: The Alters and Doom Dark Ages

10:00 Doom Dark Ages: A Grizzly Bear Experience

12:44 Xbox vs PlayStation: The Next Generation Debate

16:41 Vacation Gaming: Vampire Survivors and Deus Ex

24:11 Nine Souls: A Deep Dive into Gameplay and Mechanics

33:47 Mastering...

The boys are joined by Dark/Smart Matt to check in on the leaderboard for the inaugural Fantasy Video Game tournament. Recorded 7/7/2025.

AI Chapter List

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Current Games

06:04 Discussion on Doom Dark Ages and Its Mechanics

12:11 Fantasy Draft Recap and Game Ratings

28:59 Game Predictions and Expectations

34:26 Analyzing Game Releases and Delays

41:34 Team Selections and Strategies

47:14 Multiplayer Dynamics in Night Rain

56:20 Community Development and Gameplay Mechanics

01:01:46 Community Engagement in Elden Ring

01:08:02 Character...

The boys deep dive into the presumptive 2025 Game of the Year, "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Recorded 6/23/2025

AI Generated Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Game of the Year Discussion

08:38 Exploring Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

17:24 Transitioning to Other Games and Experiences

31:35 Deep Dive into Clear Obscure: Expedition 33

38:11 Combat Systems and Gameplay Mechanics

46:23 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

46:52 Balancing Power and Gameplay Mechanics

49:44 Combat Systems and Synergies

54:41 Streamlined Gameplay Experience

59:19 The Essence of Game Development

01:04:33 Narrative Depth and Character Development<...

The boys look back at the 2018 Game Awards, one of the most packed years in gaming ever. Recorded 6/2/2025.

AI Generated Chapter List

05:57 Exploring New Games and Genres

08:51 The Impact of 2018 Game Awards

12:06 Best Ongoing Game Discussion

23:15 The Evolution of Ongoing Games

27:16 Exploring VR and AR Gaming

31:27 Best Action and Independent Games

36:19 Survival Games and Unique Experiences

42:51 Role-Playing Games and Their Impact

50:01 Best Performance in Gaming

54:24 The Impact of Iconic Game Moments

56:57 Musical Masterpieces in Gaming<...

The boys take a look back at the 2013 Spike Video Game Awards and weigh in on a truly amazing year in gaming. ]-Recorded 5/20/2025. Topic begins at 7:50

Jack's subjects Dave and Matt to his choice title for 2025, "Blue Prince." Does it live up to the critical acclaim that it has received? Recorded 5/5/2025.

AI Generated Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

08:53 Exploring Recent Gaming Experiences

21:04 Diving into Blueprints: Game Overview

30:01 Gameplay Mechanics and Player Experiences

33:17 Personal Preferences in Gaming

34:39 The Importance of Note-Taking

36:22 Immersion and Engagement in Gameplay

40:54 Ratings and Personal Experiences

46:21 Comparative Analysis with Other Games

49:41 Diverse Perspectives on Game Enjoyment

55:10 Quality of...

The boys run through a plethora of games that they have been enjoying before Jack and Dave regale Matt about their experiences with early Game of the Year contender "Split Fiction." Recorded 4/14/2025.

AI Generated Chapters

00:00 Technical Difficulties and Podcast Setup

03:11 Gaming Updates and Recent Plays

05:52 Exploring New Game Releases

08:50 Game Recommendations and Reviews

11:57 Nostalgia in Gaming and Franchise Connections

15:01 Indie Game Discoveries and Steam Deck Experiences

17:55 Developer Insights and Game Modifications

20:59 Upcoming Titles and Community Challenges

30:31...

It happens to every podcast... After 125+ episodes we finally had an issue with recording that cost us an episode. This episode is lost, but at least Jack's ranting about minimalism will live on! Recorded 3/31/2025

Matt and Jack finally experience Dave’s most beloved video game franchise and share their thoughts. Is this a contender for Game of the Year 2025? Recorded 3/17/2025

AI Generated Chapters

02:03 Gameplay Experiences and Initial Impressions

04:58 Diving into Monster Hunter Wilds

08:08 Combat Mechanics and Weapon Choices

10:45 Menu System and Learning Curve

13:58 Weapon Mechanics and Player Strategies

17:05 The Role of Multiplayer and Cooperation

20:07 Wound System and Combat Dynamics

22:49 Monster Design and Fight Experiences

43:54 The Impact of Soundtracks in Gaming

45:29 Memorable Dr...

The boys weigh in on the inaugural 2014 Game of the Year Awards with the benefit of hindsight. Recorded 3/3/2025

AI Generated Chapter List

00:00 Introduction to Indie Games and Telltale's Legacy

05:34 Exploring Recent Game Experiences

15:31 Diving into Monster Hunter Wilds

25:28 The Evolution of Game Awards and Developer Recognition

45:08 The Evolution of Indie Games

47:29 Best Shooter Games of 2014

49:55 Debating the Best Shooter

55:35 Titanfall's Struggles

57:43 Best Performance in Gaming

01:01:58 Games for Change and Impactful Titles<...

The boys review their favorite boss fights experienced in calendar year 2024. Recorded 1/17/2025

AI Generated Chapters

00:00 Navigating Work and Health Challenges

02:51 Gaming Picks and Strategies

04:36 Transitioning into the Main Discussion

05:11 Current Gaming Experiences

19:05 Top Boss Battles of 2024

46:06 Honorable Mentions and Final Thoughts

50:27 Visual Design and Boss Mechanics in Gaming

55:48 Challenging Boss Fights: Learning Through Failure

01:00:42 Honorable Mentions: Notable Bosses of the Year

01:11:20 Top Picks: The Best Boss Fights of 2024

01:32:46 New Chapter

<...

The boys are joined by Smart Matt to launch the first ever Couch Co-op Fantasy Video Game Draft, with bragging rights and a video game of the winner's choosing on the line. Recorded 1/27/2025

AI Generated Chapters

00:00 Recent Gaming Experiences and Challenges

00:44 Game Drafting Rules and Strategies

00:56 New Chapter

08:13 Current Gaming Trends and Personal Favorites

17:44 Exploring UFO 50: A Unique Gaming Experience

26:15 Engaging with Game Development and Community

33:35 Drafting Anticipated Games for 2025

51:30 Final Picks and Predictions for...

The boys share their favorite games of calendar year 2024. Recorded 1/10/2025.

AI Generated Chapter List

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Game of the Year Excitement

00:55 Recent Gaming Experiences and Reviews

09:55 Discussion on Couch Co-op and Multiplayer Games

15:10 Battlefield 1 and Gaming Strategies

20:39 Couch Co-op Experiences

45:48 The Impact of Shadow of the Earth Tree

51:45 Navigating the Challenges of Elden Ring DLC

57:46 Exploring Nine Souls: A Metroidvania Experience

01:05:40 Reflecting on Last Year's Top Games

01:10:45 Alan Wake 2: A Unique...

The boys discuss their favorite episodes recorded in 2024. Recorded 12/23/2024.

AI Generated Chapter List

00:00 Introduction and Holiday Gaming Traditions

10:04 Current Gaming Experiences and Challenges

16:55 Celebrating Milestones: The 100th Episode

23:06 Demo Demolition: A Return to Demos

26:05 In-Depth Discussions: Baldur's Gate 3 and More

29:50 Reflections on Most Hated Games and Memorable Moments

36:22 Reflecting on Favorite Episodes

39:34 Couch Co-op Experiences

42:29 Exploring New Titles and Genres

44:22 The Appeal of Multiplayer Games

48:31 The Impact of Shared...

The boys discuss the retro survival horror title, "Signalis" and then share their most hated games of 2024. Recorded 2024. Recorded 12/9/2024.

AI Generated Chapters

00:00 Gaming Experiences and Console vs. Tablet Debate

00:54 Introduction to Gaming Experiences

15:20 Diving into Signalis: Initial Impressions

34:40 Exploring Themes and Mechanics in Signalis

45:10 Final Thoughts and Comparisons

48:04 Exploring Game Narratives and Replayability

57:13 The Most Hated Games of the Year

01:05:48 Cursed Gaming Experiences

01:11:52 Disappointments and Overhyped Titles

01:24:44 CC Outro.mp3

The boys give their full spoiler review of Alan Wake 2. Recorded 11/11/2024.

AI Chapters

00:00 Gaming Experiences and Recent Titles

01:57 Diving into Alan Wake 2: Initial Impressions

07:45 Critique of Alan Wake 2: Gameplay and Combat

13:51 Exploring the Narrative and Atmosphere of Alan Wake 2

21:46 Initial Impressions and Boss Encounters

24:23 Level Design and Navigation Challenges

26:31 Frustrations with the Studio Environment

31:01 Combat Mechanics and Gameplay Experiences

35:13 Narrative and Meta Elements

42:24 Medium of Experience: Game vs. TV Series

54:12 Creativity and...

AI Summary:

This conversation explores the evolution of indie games, the importance of fun in game design, community engagement in gaming, and the future of gaming experiences. The speakers discuss how indie games have transformed the gaming landscape, the elements that make games enjoyable, and the role of community in shaping gaming experiences. Recorded 10/29/2024.

AI Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Alan Wake 2

04:03 First Impressions and Gameplay Mechanics

08:31 Narrative and Storytelling Elements

11:56 Character Interactions and AI Behavior

16:32 Art Design and Atmosphere

22:15 Game Mechanics and Pacing Issues<...

Couch Co-op: A video game podcast

In this episode of Couch Co-op, hosts Matt, Jack, and David Plummer discuss their recent gaming experiences, focusing on Astro Bot and Ender Lilies. They explore the mechanics of Metroidvania games, the impact of haptic feedback in Astro Bot, and the various power-ups that enhance gameplay. The conversation delves into the design of different galaxies within Astro Bot, the challenges presented by boss fights, and the unique mechanics of exclusive levels. The hosts share their thoughts on the game's overall design and their personal experiences with the challenges it presents. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the nuances...

In this episode of Couch Co-Op, Matt, Dave, and Jack dive into a variety of video games, sharing their experiences and thoughts on titles like AEW Fight Forever, TowerFall Ascension, Balatro, Midnight Suns, Doom Eternal, Black Myth Wukong, and Astro Bot. They discuss the joys and challenges of couch co-op gaming, the excitement of indie titles, and the nuances of gameplay mechanics. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes, family gaming experiences, and the impact of game design on player enjoyment. Recorded 9/23/2024

AI Takeaways

Couch Co-op: A video game podcast

It's a mixed bag episode as the boys are joined by old friend and casual streamer Dennis (The Chodie) to discuss "Escape from Tarkov." Then Matt and Jack share their spoiler free thoughts on "Subnautica." Finally, the "Couch Co-op" crew give their first impressions on the trailer for the video game inspired series "Secret Levels." Recorded 8/26/2024. Topic begins at 2:49

The boys are once again joined by "Smart Matt" to further discuss the epic DLC to Elden Ring, this time with full spoilers. Recorded 8/12/2024. Topic begins at 16:01

Jack and Dave experience Matt in stereo with longtime gamer "Smart" Matt joining the podcast to discuss Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree. Recorded 8/2/2024. Topic begins at 13:33

The boys discuss the potential impacts of video game companies moving to subscription-based models. Recorded 7/15/2024. Topic begins at 8:08

The boys get together in person to share their thoughts on the 2017 Game Award nominees and winners. Recorded 7/1/2024. Topic begins at 7:23

The boys have one of their nerdiest conversations yet discussing the rogue deck builder "Balatro," a likely candidate for The Couch Co-op Game of the Year. Recorded 6/17/2024. Topic begins at 9:21

The boys review Jack's 2024 game to play, "ANIMAL WELL." Is it just another indie Metroidvania? Recorded 6/3/2024. Topic begins at 11:11

The boys discuss their favorite sound effects and voice acting in video games. Recorded 5/20/2024. Topic begins at 5:16

The boys offer their opinions on demos for "Street Fighter 6," "Contra Operation Galuga," and "Unicorn Overlord" on PS5. Recorded 5/6/2024. Topic begins at 12:05

The boys discuss the surprise announcement of "Slay the Spire 2" and reflect on the era of the PS5. Recorded 4/23/2024. Topic begins at 12:37

The boys discuss upcoming video game releases that they are tracking in 2024 and 2025. Recorded 4/9/2024. Topic begins at 13:45

The boys run through 3 recent additions to the rogue genre, "Sifu," "Balatro," and "God of War Ragnarök Valhalla DLC." Recorded 3/24/2024. Topic begins at 21:30

Dave talks about "Baldur's Gate 3" for 1 hour 20 minutes and 37 seconds. Recorded 3/11/2024. Topic begins at 16:50

The boys welcome Trevor from the, "Catching Up On Cinema" podcast to discuss their favorite video game music from 2023. Recorded 2/26/2024. Topic begins at 23:15

The boys discuss their favorite boss fights that they experienced in 2023. Recorded 2/12/2024. Topic begins at 17:18

The boys celebrate their 100th episode by sharing the most beautiful worlds that they have experienced in videogames. Recorded 1/22/2024. Topic begins at 13:25

Matt, Jack, and Dave share their personal top games played in 2023. Recorded 1/8/2024. Topic begins at 16:46

The boys touch on some of their favorite episodes recorded in 2023. Recorded 12/11/2023. Topic begins at 39:00

The boys discuss music, mechanics, plotlines, and various other aspects of video gaming that irked them in 2023. Recorded 12/1/2023. Topic begins at 12:27

The boys follow up on their predictions for the 2023 Game of the Year Awards as the nominees are officially announced. Recorded 11/13/2023. Topic begins at 41:37

The boys celebrate Halloween by sharing their thoughts on the "Resident Evil 4" remake and other horror titles. Recorded 10/23/2023. Topic begins at 8:23

The boys reveal their age by reviewing some video game titles and franchises where their opinions have changed with time. Recorded 10/9/2023. Topic begins at 8:46

Trevor from the "Catching Up On Cinema" podcast joins the boys as they discuss Armored Core 6, Matt's selection for group review. Recorded 9/26/2023. Topic begins at 15:11

The boys share their predictions for the 2023 edition of the Game of the Year Awards. Recorded 9/11/2023. Topic begins at 9:22

Jack leads a discussion on what may be his favorite game of the year, "Neon White." Recorded 8/27/2023. Topic begins at 10:18

The boys share some of their favorite narrative moments in gaming. Recorded 8/14/2023. Topic begins at 43:30

The boys discuss notable quality of life implementations in video gaming. Recorded 7/24/2023. Topic begins at 13:05

Matt, Jack, and Dave describe their personal rating systems for video games and give scores to some of their favorite games from over 15 years of playing together. Recorded 7/11/2023

The boys discuss "Blood and Wine" and "Hearts of Stone," the two extensive DLC chapters of "The Witcher 3." Recorded 6/26/2023

The boys discuss the much acclaimed, "Witcher 3," Dave's selection for Game of the Year Showcase. Recorded 6/13/2023

The boys discuss upcoming video game releases that they are most excited about. Recorded 5/22/2023

Friend of the show Ryan (tool-geek) joins the boys to discuss "Dark Souls 3" and how it compares to "Elden Ring." Recorded 5/9/2023

The boys are joined by Trevor from, "Catching Up On Cinema" to discuss game mechanics that they particularly enjoyed. Recorded 4/24/2023

The boys discuss the video game puzzles that have irritated them the most. Recorded 4/11/2023

Dave, Jack, and Matt discuss video game characters that they have found annoying in their years of gaming. Recorded 3/28/2023

Jack, Matt, and Dave discuss HBO's, "The Last of Us" TV series adaptation and how it compares to the video game. Recorded 3/13/2023

The boys discuss their favorite music in games that they played in 2022. Recorded 2/24/2023

Trevor from the "Catching Up On Cinema" podcast joins the boys to share some thoughts on the best boss fights experienced in 2022. Recorded 2/13/2023

The boys share their respective thought processes when it comes to selecting which video game titles they choose to play. Recorded 1/30/2023

The boys reflect upon the first episode of "The Last of Us," TV series. Recorded 1/15/2022

The boys reflect on their shows from 2022 and provide behind the scenes commentary on year 2 of "Couch Co-op." Recorded 1/3/2022

The third annual Couch Co-op Best of the Year show, where the boys review their top 5 games from 2022. Recorded 12/20/2022

The boys share their thoughts on some notable trailers from the 2022 Game of the Year Awards before diving into the epic conclusion to, "God of War Ragnarök." Recorded 12/11/2022

Dave, Matt, and Jack, share their first impressions of Game of the Year candidate "God of War Ragnarök." Recorded 11/22/2022 

The boys reveal their most hated gaming titles of 2022. Recorded 11/9/2022

Dave, Matt, and Jack share their thoughts on, "Resident Evil Village." Recorded 10/26/2022

The boys celebrate the month of horror with "Cult of the Lamb," a cute construction simulator/rogue-like action adventure that deals with the macabre. Recorded 10/26/2022 

The boys share their thoughts on what they hope to see in the latest edition of, "Grand Theft Auto." Recorded 10/12/2022

The boys discuss, "The Last of Us" TV show trailer and offer their thoughts on indie gem Inscryption. Presented spoiler free for the first portion of the episode. Recorded 9/28/2022 

The boys discuss their experiences with the console wars and offer their thoughts on the current iteration of the grand war for consumer dollars. Recorded 9/14/2022

Jack, Dave, and Matt discuss Resident Evil 7: Biohazard and other video game franchise titles. Recorded 8/31/2022 

For the first time ever, Matt, Dave, and Jack meet in person to discuss multiplayer games, with a particular emphasis on "Returnal." Recorded 8/18/2022

The boys reflect on the much-heralded dialogue-heavy RPG, "Disco Elysium." Recorded 7/27/2022

The boys discuss the surprisingly excellent PS5 launch title, "Astro's Playroom." Recorded 7/28/2022 

The boys share their thoughts on the bullet hell/run and gun gem, "Cuphead" and its recent DLC.

Matt, Jack, and Dave discuss videogame sidekicks, including a few notable LGBTQIA+ characters. Recorded 6/29/2022

The boys weigh in on their first impressions of the new PlayStation Plus service and gauge how much they will be using it initially. Recorded 6/22/2022

The boys share their final thoughts on their consensus top pick for Game of the Year, "Elden Ring." Recorded 6/15/2022

The boys share their thoughts on the upcoming revamped PlayStation Plus service. Recorded 6/8/2022

The boys discuss the various factors that make them put down a game. Jack spoils the amazing movie, "Unforgiven." Recorded 5/26/2022

The boys share their thoughts on the 2016 Game Award nominees and winners. Recorded 5/11/2022

The boys share some video game titles that they will never experience themselves but appreciate all the same. Recorded 4/20/2022

Jack, Dave, and Matt discuss the 2015 Game Awards winners and where they stand by today's standards. Recorded 4/20/2022

The boys discuss their thoughts on how the success of "Elden Ring" will affect future FormSoftware releases, as well as the video game industry as a whole. Recorded 4/13

Dave and Matt share their couch co-op experience and thoughts on one of the more memorable boss fights from "Elden Ring." Recorded 4/7/2022

Matt, Jack, and Dave make wild predictions on the potential for gaming in the near future. Recorded 3/23/2022

The boys share their favorite games from the last generation of consoles and devices (roughly 2014-2021.) Recorded 3/23/2022

Thye boys make their picks for the worst couples in gaming. Recorded 3/9/2022

The boys deep dive into their first AAA experience of 2022 with the much-heralded, "Elden Ring." Recorded 3/10/2022

The boys discuss the best romantic couples in gaming that they have experienced. Recorded 2/23/2022

The boys ruminate over the best sequels in video games. Recorded 2/23/2022

Part 2 of Matt, Dave, and Jack's deep dive into, "The Last of Us 2," this time focusing on the plot and characters. Recorded 12/9/2022

The boys discuss, "The Last of Us 2" with a focus specifically on the gameplay mechanics and setting. Recorded 2/9/2022