Dense Pixels - Video Game News and Reviews

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.

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 di...

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 hims...

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...

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 u...

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 administra...

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...

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 a...

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...

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 p...

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...

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 releas...

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 Descen...

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 bo...

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 pl...

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 A...

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 pl...

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 t...

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 Ka...

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 Offi...

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, LUMINE...

***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.

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.

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 obvi...

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 b...

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.

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 hi...

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 quie...

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.

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...

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.

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...

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 n...

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...

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.

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.

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 Marv...

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.

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.

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...

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. Last...

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 consol...

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 co...

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...

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."

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 b...

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...

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.

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 ex...

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...

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.

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.

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...

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...

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 lau...

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 se...

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...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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...

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 P...

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.<...

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...

In this episode, Brad shares his impressions of two roguelikes, Fights in Tight Spaces and Slice & Dice. Meanwhile, Micah passionately discusses the Nomura-ing of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth's ending. We also delve into former Blizzard boss Mike Ybarra's perspective on game development, as well as Saber Interactive founder's comments on the scrutiny faced by Embracer. Additionally, we hear insights from Larian Publishing Director regarding industry layoffs. Furthermore, we address allegations of toxic workplace culture at Life is Strange developer Deck Nine and the rumored casting of Keanu Reeves as Shadow in the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie. To wrap up, we...

In this episode, Micah shares his impressions of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, while Carrie provides her initial thoughts on Final Fantasy VII Remake. Micah also delves into his experiences with Rise of the Ronin, exploring whether its various components come together to create something special. Additionally, we discuss Phil Spencer's interest in expanding digital storefronts like the Epic Games Store or itch.io to Xbox, as well as Vladimir Putin's directive to explore the development of a Russian games console. Furthermore, we cover Take-Two's acquisition of Gearbox from Embracer for $460 million and Embracer CEO's stance on the timing of studio...

In this episode, we delve into the recent update patch for Helldivers 2, exploring the flying bugs terminids and uncovering valuable lessons for the wider gaming industry. Carrie shares her experiences diving back into Stardew Valley with the latest 1.6 update, discussing its impact and improvements. We also discuss comments made at the GDC Awards, including the criticism of publisher greed by Larian Studios head Swen Vincke. We react to the Baldur's Gate 3 news and Larian Studios' decision to move on from the franchise. Additionally, we examine the controversy surrounding microtransactions and DLC in Dragon's Dogma 2 as revealed in recent Steam reviews.

Capcom is increasing its starting salary in Japan by more than 25%, aiming to attract and retain talent. Activision QA workers unionize, demanding better working conditions as over 600 employees are laid off. Embracer Group confirms the $247 million sale of Saber Interactive assets and withdraws from Russia amid ongoing conflict. Former Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick reportedly expresses interest in purchasing TikTok. SAG-AFTRA considers striking over AI terms in video game contracts. Star Wars Battlefront Classic Collection faces critical errors at launch, disappointing fans. Rooster Teeth shuts down under Warner Bros, signaling changes in the entertainment industry. Finally, Carrie discusses Nobuo Uematsu's...

PlayStation is reducing its workforce by around 900 employees, approximately 8% of its total staff. EA has announced further layoffs affecting about 670 employees. There's a discussion about the permission structure around layoffs in the game industry and whether it will lead to consolidation or a crash. The creator of a Switch emulator settled a lawsuit with Nintendo for $2.4 million. Toys for Bob, known for Skylanders and Crash Bandicoot, is leaving Activision to become an independent studio. Brad explores the excellence of the original Half-Life and its relevance for modern developers. Developers express concerns about the future of Apple Arcade. Some Tekken 8 players...

Brad is completely captivated by the new poker-styled deckbuilding roguelite Balatro. Microsoft announced some games moving out of their exclusive catalog, raising questions about PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase revealed exciting new releases. EA Sports plans to iincentivize college players to appear in their upcoming game, College Football 25.

Micah shares his excitement about Tekken 8, expressing his belief that it could be the best installment in the Tekken series thus far. Brad enthusiastically dives into Helldivers II, describing it as one of the finest online shooters he has ever experienced and expressing his delight while playing. Micah delves into his immersive experience with Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, highlighting how it pays homage to longtime fans of the franchise and captures their hearts. Disney announces a significant investment in Epic Games, the maker of Fortnite, with a stake of $1.5 billion, marking a notable development in the gaming industry. IGN...

Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League receives worryingly low Metascore and Steam player count, raising concerns about its reception and performance in the gaming community. Reports surface alleging that employees at The Day Before studio face fines for mistakes, shedding light on potential workplace issues within the company. Blizzard appoints a former Call of Duty boss as its new president, signaling leadership changes within the company. Microsoft is reportedly considering releasing their exclusives on PlayStation, generating discussion about their future as a hardware maker in the games industry. Carrie shares her impressions of Persona 3 Reload, discussing how it compares to...

Microsoft announces a significant layoff of 1,900 employees across Xbox and Activision Blizzard, signaling major changes within the gaming industry. Riot Games, the developer of League of Legends, follows suit with layoffs affecting 530 employees, highlighting ongoing challenges in the industry. The studio behind Destroy All Humans cuts half of its staff, reflecting a trend of layoffs affecting game developers. Eidos Montreal cancels a Deus Ex game, leading to further layoffs and raising questions about the future of the franchise. Blizzard announces a new era of Overwatch esports through a partnership with Saudi funding, signaling shifts in the competitive gaming landscape. Carrie...

The game PalWorld has achieved over 5 million copies sold in just three days; we have questions about its potential longevity and whether it will become a gaming juggernaut. Ubisoft's subscription boss suggests that consumers need to be comfortable with not owning games, reflecting a shift in the gaming industry towards subscription models. Rocksteady Studios founders have established a new studio called Hundred Star Games; what does that portend for Rocksteady Studios? Square Enix experimented with AI technology for FoamStars; is this the beginning of a slippery slope? A GDC survey reveals that one-third of developers have been impacted by layoffs...

Carrie starts the podcast by emphasizing that there are no excuses left to try Golden Sun.We discuss concerns raised by actors regarding the groundbreaking SAG-AFTRA AI voice agreement.The team shares their gaming resolutions for 2024.We discuss issues related to profitability and layoffs at Twitch and Discord, respectively.Micah provides his impressions of the new Prince of Persia: The Lost King demo, exploring its quality compared to reviews. And we talk some Tekken 8 in advance of its release (and why Brian Cox is awesome).

In the latest podcast episode, discussions include revelations from a former Call of Duty developer who criticizes Bobby Kotick's decisions, claiming they negatively impacted game quality.

A 13-year-old achieves a remarkable feat by becoming the first person to beat Tetris, showcasing exceptional gaming skill.

The exorbitant cost of the Star Citizen Legatus Ship Pack, priced at $48,000 RSI, raises eyebrows and sparks conversation about in-game purchases.

Brad shares why the indie puzzler Chants of Sennar doesn't resonate with him, providing personal insights into the game.

Carrie recounts her experience at the Sonic Symphony...

In the latest podcast episode, the hosts discuss significant developments in the gaming industry, including a reported hack on Insomniac Games impacting data related to Wolverine and Spider-Man 3.

Versus Evil experiences closure, affecting titles like TinyBuild, Banner Saga, and Pillars of Eternity. The hosts delve into the consequences and implications of such closures on the gaming landscape.
PlayStation undergoes a U-turn regarding the removal of Discovery content that users had paid for, sparking discussions on user backlash and platform decisions.

The episode also features the hosts sharing their impressions of several games, providing insights into...

In this special Game of the Year episode, the hosts engage in a lively discussion about their personal picks for the best games of 2023. They share insights into the standout titles that have left a lasting impression and shaped their gaming experiences throughout the year.

The podcast also covers industry news, highlighting the ongoing layoff streak at Embracer, impacting 3D Realms and Slipgate Ironworks. The hosts delve into the cancellation of The Last of Us Online and its multiplayer standalone component, exploring the implications for the gaming community.

Hideo Kojima's journey to independence is a topic...

The latest podcast episode delves into The Game Awards that took place last week, with Brad and Micah providing a recap of the notable winners. The hosts engage in a discussion about the controversy surrounding The Game Awards, particularly the minimal time allocated to award recipients, and share their insights on how the show could improve in the future.

Brad and Micah review the announcements at The Game Awards that caught their attention, offering their perspectives on the exciting reveals and developments in the gaming industry showcased during the event.

The podcast also covers industry news...

Brad shares his progress in chipping away at his gaming backlog, providing reviews of Steamworld Build, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge, and Unpacking. The hosts then dive into their impressions of the Grand Theft Auto VI teaser and share their experiences with the iconic Grand Theft Auto franchise.

In a thought-provoking segment, the podcast explores the news about Sony removing purchased Discovery TV shows from the PlayStation Store and the broader implications of digital ownership. The hosts also engage in a debate about the ethical stances on "acceptable" video game piracy, reflecting on how their opinions have...

Brad shares his review of the Steam Deck OLED, offering insights into the device's features and how it enhances the gaming experience. Additionally, he reflects on his early hours in Persona 4, discussing the challenges of going backward through a long-running franchise like Persona.

The podcast covers unfortunate industry news as layoffs hit Humble Games and Galaxy on Fire: Chorus developer Fishlabs. The hosts explore the impact of these layoffs on the gaming community and the developers involved.In gaming industry updates, the discussion includes news about Atlus announcing a 15 percent annual salary increase, and Sega Sonic Union facing...

Micah and Brad discuss the recently announced nominees for The Game Awards. The conversation covers the exciting lineup of nominees, highlighting the diverse and competitive nature of the gaming industry.The discussion also touches upon the Eurogamer review of the Steam Deck OLED, emphasizing the beautiful display upgrade and additional features that enhance the gaming experience.Sony's confirmation of a delay to half of its planned live service games is explored, providing insights into the challenges and adjustments within the gaming giant's strategy.Take-Two boss credits a three-part strategy for avoiding mass layoffs this year, shedding light on the company's...

Carrie shares her detailed experience of moving across the country, offering insights and anecdotes from her journey. The hosts dive into the recent drama on PlayStation Twitter, involving Elon Musk and PS5. They also address the ongoing challenges faced by laid-off Dragon Age testers, who picketed BioWare. Capcom's warning about the reputational damage from mods that violate public order and morals sparks a discussion about content and the modding community. The podcast delves into the distressing news of layoffs affecting Ubisoft Montreal and the controversial developments surrounding Gamestop's warranty and pre-order rewards and employee healthcare benefits. Lastly, they explore the...

Join Brad and Micah on the Dense Pixels podcast for a thrilling episode filled with gaming insights, industry updates, and thought-provoking discussions. Brad reviews the significant changes to Diablo IV and how they've enhanced the gaming experience, particularly focusing on Diablo IV's Season of Blood as a template for top-notch content updates. The hosts passionately make the case for 2023 as the best year for gaming ever, exploring the exciting titles and trends that make it exceptional. They delve into industry news, including Xbox's efforts to block unauthorized third-party accessories and the unexpected layoffs at Destiny 2 developer Bungie. In a lighter...

Dive into the gaming world with Brad and Micah on the Dense Pixels podcast. In this episode, Micah shares his spoiler-free review of Spider-Man 2, giving you insights into the highly anticipated game without giving away any key plot details. Brad provides his very initial impressions of Super Mario Wonder, offering a peek into what players can expect from this exciting title. The hosts also discuss the unfortunate layoffs occurring in the video game industry, with a focus on the impact on Dreams developer Media Molecule. They explore the latest developments in the gaming community, such as Twitch's new feature allowing...

Join Brad, Carrie, and Micah on Dense Pixels as they navigate the latest developments and controversies in the gaming industry. They delve into the unfortunate layoffs at Telltale Games and the struggles faced by QA staff in the world of Dragon Age. The hosts also explore the challenges faced by former Dragon Age staff as they seek further compensation following layoffs. The discussion continues with the unionization of CD Projekt Red's developers after a series of layoffs within the company. It turns out they correctly predicted upper management being the cause of financial strife at Epic Games. In a surprising...

Join Brad and Micah on Dense Pixels for a candid discussion about the latest developments in the gaming industry. They explore the recent layoffs at Epic Games, including the departure of Steam Spy creator Sergiy Galyonkin, and the reported halt in development for The Last of Us Factions. The hosts dissect the resumption of the FTC's case against Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard and Jim Ryan's legacy at Sony. They also delve into Electronic Arts' decision to remove the FIFA back catalogue from digital storefronts ahead of the FC24 release. In a thought-provoking segment, Brad and Micah examine the concept...

Tune in to the latest episode of Dense Pixels, featuring Brad and Micah, as they share their final thoughts on Starfield after completing the game and exploring the possibilities with the new game plus mode. Micah also provides his impressions of Mortal Kombat 1. The hosts delve into the controversy surrounding Unity Engine's runtime fees and install changes, along with the concerns related to Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard and Ubisoft's cloud gaming initiatives. They discuss the departure of Glen Schofield, co-creator of Dead Space, from the Callisto Project studio after a challenging release. Additionally, they cover the recent layoffs at...

Join Brad and Carrie on another episode of Dense Pixels as they dive into the latest gaming news, industry developments, and game announcements. In this episode, they discuss the controversy surrounding Unity's new install charge and how indie developers are reacting to it. They also explore Unity's response to the backlash, including the possibility of waiving fees for developers who switch to its ad monetization service. Brad and Carrie delve into the unusual stock sales by Unity's executives just days before the development fee announcement, raising eyebrows in the gaming community. They discuss the impact of Unity's fee news and...

Welcome to another exciting episode of Dense Pixels, where Brad, Carrie, and Micah share their gaming adventures and insights. Micah dives into his initial experiences with Baldur's Gate 3, offering a glimpse into the captivating world of this CRPG. Carrie celebrates her journey through Tears of the Kingdom, discussing her "finished" experience with the game. The trio also delves into their impressions of Starfield, Bethesda's highly anticipated space-faring RPG. Additionally, they explore the intriguing details behind Charles Martinet's role as Mario ambassador, as explained by Shigeru Miyamoto. They wrap up the episode by discussing the Unity Engine's new pricing model and...

Join Brad and Micah on another episode of Dense Pixels as they explore the latest gaming news, trends, and hot topics. They dive into the details of the newly announced PlayStation Portal handheld, discussing its features, price, and potential impact on the gaming market. The team also tackles the recent PlayStation Plus price increase and its implications for gamers. They delve into Epic Games' developer incentives, offering 100% revenue for game exclusivity, and the consequences of such deals. Additionally, they reflect on the recent studio closures at Embracer and BioWare and the impact on the industry. The trio shares their excitement...

Join Brad, Carrie, and Micah on the Dense Pixels podcast for a dynamic episode where they discuss gaming experiences, industry news, and even offer relationship insights. Carrie shares her experiences playing Baldur's Gate 3, while Brad embraces the questionable practice of save scumming. They delve into the ongoing developments in the gaming industry, from Call of Duty's impact on Microsoft-Activision Blizzard to Embracer Group's strategic deals. Additionally, they explore the heartwarming news about Mario's voice, Charles Martinet, retiring from his role and becoming a Nintendo ambassador. In a special segment, the team offers their best advice for a successful marriage, creating...

Welcome to another engaging episode of Dense Pixels, where Brad and Micah delve into the latest gaming experiences, events, and discussions. Brad shares his impressions of Baldur's Gate 3, highlighting its remarkable replication of a tabletop RPG experience and drawing parallels to Breath of the Wild in how much freedom the game allows the player. They also discuss the buzz surrounding Baldur's Gate 3 being considered a new standard for the RPG genre, as mentioned in a recent article. The duo reflects on the Street Fighter 6 Grand Finals from EVO 2023, offering their insights into the competitive future that Street Fighter 6 holds. Additionally...

Join Brad and Micah on Dense Pixels, where they discuss the latest gaming news, share insights, and engage in fun challenges. In this episode, they explore the recent updates on Overwatch 2, including its availability on Steam and Blizzard's World of Warcraft changes. They also touch upon the unfortunate news about CD Projekt Red's third round of layoffs in three months. The duo dives into the exciting rumors surrounding the Nintendo Switch's successor, expected to launch in late 2024, and speculate on the specs needed for the upcoming console. Lastly, they embark on a playful challenge, drafting 16-bit games to create the...

Welcome to Dense Pixels, a gaming podcast featuring Brad and Micah, where they discuss the latest gaming news, share their impressions, and explore thought-provoking topics. In this episode, they delve into the recent Microsoft-Activision injunction decision and the binding agreement between Microsoft and PlayStation to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation consoles. Micah shares his surprising impressions of Exoprimal, a game that exceeded his expectations. Brad provides his impressions of Octopath Traveler II, highlighting the improvements it brings compared to the original game. They also discuss the upcoming official Assassin's Creed Mirage haptic gaming suit and the exciting news about...

Welcome to the Dense Pixels podcast, where Brad and Micah share their gaming experiences, impressions, and thoughts on the latest news and trends. In this episode, Brad discusses his impressions of Motorsport Manager and his cemented love for unlicensed sports simulations. The duo then dives into a comprehensive review of Diablo IV's campaign, accompanied by early end-game impressions. Micah shares his continued thoughts on Final Fantasy XVI, expressing how his investment in the game has grown after the initial slog of Act 1. In a departure from gaming, they discuss their all-time favorite TV pilot episode. Alongside these topics, they explore...

Welcome to another exciting episode of Dense Pixels, featuring Brad, Carrie, and Micah as they delve into the latest gaming news and share their impressions. Micah kicks things off by giving his impressions of Final Fantasy XVI, raising the question of whether the game is relying too much on its name recognition. Carrie joins the discussion with her insights from the closed beta of Monster Hunter, providing a firsthand account of the gameplay experience. The team then dives into the news surrounding the Microsoft-Activision merger, the FTC hearing, and the impact it may have on popular franchises like Call of...

Join Brad, Carrie, Terrence, and Micah on the Dense Pixels podcast as they dive into the highlights of Summer Game Fest 2023, discussing the biggest games that caught their interest. They share their impressions of the highly anticipated Starfield, acknowledging its impressive visuals while pondering whether it will deliver a satisfying overall experience. The team also analyzes the recent demo of Final Fantasy XVI, emphasizing how the game's combat system won't intimidate RPG fans. Additionally, they celebrate the exciting news that the new Prince of Persia game will be a 2D Metroid-vania, deeming it the best possible outcome. As they explore...