Hollow Knight: Silksong is now available, and the reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, aside from some amusing Google Reviews.

Show Dot Points

• Hollow Knight: Silksong's launch caused significant storefront issues due to high demand.
• The anticipation for Hollow Knight: Silksong has been building for years, leading to a successful launch.
• Sales figures for Hollow Knight: Silksong are expected to surpass those of the original game.
• Players are experiencing challenges with new gameplay mechanics in Silksong compared to the original.
• The gameplay reveal for Double A7: First Light showcased a mix of stealth and action elements.
• Concerns were raised about the car chase mechanics in the Double A7 gameplay.
• Voice performances in the new Bond game were well-received, adding depth to the characters.
• The God of War TV series is set to begin filming, with a focus on staying true to the game's narrative.
• The Life is Strange adaptation will follow the original characters, Max and Chloe, from the first game.
• Sophie Turner has been cast as Lara Croft in the upcoming Tomb Raider series, raising questions about the direction of the adaptation.

Hosts: Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley

Episode Timecodes

Chapters

00:00 Hello 02:10 Top Five Daddies in Gaming 05:07 Hollow Knight: Silksong Launch and Reactions 07:50 Hollow Knight: Silksong Gameplay and Reviews 10:38 Google Reviews and Player Reactions 12:19 Double A7: First Light Gameplay Reveal 20:36 Exploring Player Freedom in Game Design 22:11 Character Dynamics and Voice Performances 23:00 Collector's Editions and Exclusive Content 24:54 Anticipating the God of War TV Series 25:51 Adapting Video Games for Television 31:02 Life is Strange: A New Adaptation 35:11 Sophie Turner as Lara Croft: A New Era

Resources

• Hollow Knight: Silksong Is Out Now — but It's So Popular It's Crashing Storefronts Including Steam - IGN
• 007 First Light's Release Date Has Been Revealed Alongside 30 Minutes Of Gameplay
• Amazon's God of War TV series will finally start filming early next year, new report claims
• ‘Life Is Strange’ TV Series Set at Amazon From Charlie Covell, Square Enix, Story Kitchen, and LuckyChap (EXCLUSIVE)
• Amazon's live-action Tomb Raider series has found its Lara Croft | Eurogamer.net

Arcade Couch Credits:

• Music by: Dylan Blight
• Art by: Cherie Henriques
• Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

All Episodes:

• https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/

Support Us:

• http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

There are rumours of the PlayStation 6 behind a handheld/hybrid console. Are we really ready to start talking about the next generation of consoles already?

Show Dot Points

• September is shaping up to be a big month for gaming.
• The PlayStation 6 portable is rumoured to be more powerful than the PS5.
• There is a perceived lack of standout titles for the PS5 generation.
• Game development timelines have stretched significantly in recent years.
• Hollow Knight: Silksong's release has caused a ripple effect in the gaming industry.
• Indie developers face challenges when major titles are released.
• The identity of PlayStation consoles is in question with the PS5.
• The gaming landscape is influenced by external factors like tariffs and market conditions.
• There is a need for new IPs in the current gaming generation.
• The anticipation for upcoming titles is high, but the release schedule is crowded. Indie games face tough competition in a crowded market.
• Skate's early access model raises questions about monetisation.
• September 2023 is packed with exciting game releases.
• Hollow Knight: Silksong is highly anticipated by fans.
• EA's history suggests potential microtransactions in Skate.
• The gaming community is eager for the return of beloved franchises.
• Personal preferences play a significant role in gaming excitement.
• Curiosity about new titles can lead to mixed expectations.
• The hosts share a light-hearted banter about gaming habits.
• The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of video games.

Hosts: Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

Resources

• A PlayStation 6 Portable Is Apparently On The Way With More Base Power Than A PS5 When Docked
• Hollow Knight: Silksong September Launch Shakes Up Indie Game Schedule - Explosion Network
• EA’s Skate Early Access Launches September 16 on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox - Explosion Network
• What Video Games Are Coming Out in September 2025? - Explosion Network

Arcade Couch Credits:

• Music by: Dylan Blight
• Art by: Cherie Henriques
• Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

All Episodes:

• https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/

Support Us:

• http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

We discuss our first impressions of Mafia: The Old Country, the fourth entry in the series; we also take a look at everything that was announced during Gamescom - Opening Night Live 2025.

Show Dot Points

• The hosts express excitement about the upcoming release of Hollow Knight: Silksong.
• Gamescom showcased a variety of new games and trailers, generating buzz among fans.
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 aims to innovate with a new campaign structure.
• The Lego Batman game promises to incorporate elements from various Batman media.
• Anime adaptations of video games are becoming more common, with mixed reactions from fans.
• The Fallout series continues to expand with a new season, delving deeper into character backstories.
• The hosts share their thoughts on the Deadpool VR game and its potential success.
• Zero Parades is generating interest despite concerns about the development team.
• The Unbeatable game combines music and narrative in a unique way.
• Overall, the conversation highlights the evolving landscape of video games and their adaptations. Silent Hill F showcases a new direction for the franchise.
• The Divine Comedy offers a unique art style and gameplay experience.
• Vampire: The Masquerade- Bloodlines 2 has faced numerous delays but remains highly anticipated.
• Game trailers reveal a mix of horror, RPG, and action elements.
• Mafia: The Old Country returns to a more narrative-driven style of gameplay.
• The importance of character development in engaging players.
• The evolution of gaming genres is evident in upcoming titles.
• Game announcements create excitement and anticipation among fans.
• The balance between gameplay mechanics and storytelling is crucial.
• The hosts share personal insights and humour throughout the discussion.

Hosts: Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

Resources

• Kirby Air Riders Release Date Has Been Revealed Alongside A Heap Of New Info
• Gamescom Opening Night Live 2025: All the Announcements and Trailers - Explosion Network
• https://press-start.com.au/news/playstation/2025/08/22/hollow-knight-silksong-just-got-a-release-date-and-its-just-a-few-weeks-away/

Arcade Couch Credits:

• Music by: Dylan Blight
• Art by: Cherie Henriques
• Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

All Episodes:

• https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/

Support Us:

• http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

Battlefield 6 took over the gaming world with huge numbers on Steam, but does Ciaran think it will outperform this year’s Call of Duty? Additionally, we preview Opening Night Live and discuss our growing anticipation for PAX AUS 2025.

Hosts: Ashley Hobley: https://bsky.app/profile/ashleyhobley.bsky.social Ciaran Marchant: https://bsky.app/profile/en-ringo.bsky.social

Episode Timecodes 00:00:00 - Hello 00:00:37 - Battlefield 6 Beta Impressions 00:10:52 - Opening Night Live Preview 00:21:08 - PAX AUS 2025 Anticipation 00:26:01 - Goodbye

Resources

• The Battlefield 6 beta becomes the biggest thing for Battlefield ever on Steam, going beyond even Call of Duty | VG247
• Geoff Keighley Confirms 7 Games Set for ONL on Tuesday Alongside Fallout Season 2 and a Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Music Performance - IGN

Arcade Couch Credits:

• Music by: Dylan Blight
• Art by: Cherie Henriques
• Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

All Episodes:

• https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/

Support Us:

• http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

Xbox has cancelled another game, and we discuss if anyone remembers Contraband. Plus, there are rumours for the Xbox ROG Ally release date, which could lead to the same for Hollow Knight: Silksong.

Show Dot Points

• The anticipation for GTA 6 is palpable among gamers.
• Hollow Knight: Silksong continues to be a hot topic.
• The distribution of review codes often controls game reviews.
• Nintendo Indie World showcases a variety of indie games.
• The cancellation of Contraband raises questions about Xbox's strategy.
• Childhood fears related to water levels in games are common.
• Game mechanics can significantly impact player experience.
• The indie game scene is thriving with innovative titles.
• Industry trends suggest a shift in game development strategies.
• The hosts share personal anecdotes that resonate with many gamers. Open-world games have evolved, but some repetitiveness remains.
• Handheld consoles are gaining popularity, especially with the Xbox branding.
• Hollow Knight: Silksong is highly anticipated and will be showcased at events.
• Sony's live service strategy has faced significant challenges and cancellations.
• The Drifter offers a unique gaming experience with a compelling story.
• The excitement for new gaming devices is palpable among gamers.
• Xbox's branding may attract a broader audience to handheld gaming.
• The narrative depth in games like The Drifter enhances player engagement.
• Live service games require careful planning to avoid failures.
• The gaming community is eager for more single-player experiences.

Hosts: Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

Episode Timecodes

00:00:00 - Hello 00:02:00 - Discussing Review Codes 00:05:45 - Nintendo Indie World Showcase Recap 00:17:40 - Xbox Cancels Contraband 00:24:00 - Xbox ROG Ally Release Date & Hollow Knight: Silk Song Rumours 00:30:10 - Sony Admits PlayStation Live Service Strategy Isn't Going Great 00:41:10 - The Drifter Review 00:46:40 - Goodbye

Resources

• Nintendo's Indie World Showcase - here's everything announced | Eurogamer.net
• Development On The Xbox Exclusive Co-Op Game Contraband Has Stopped
• Official Xbox handheld console ROG Ally gets a release date, courtesy of reliable leaker | Eurogamer.net
• After Concord and a string of delays and cancellations, Sony admits PlayStation's live-service strategy is "not entirely going smoothly" | Eurogamer.net

Arcade Couch Credits:

• Music by: Dylan Blight
• Art by: Cherie Henriques
• Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

All Episodes:

• https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/

Support Us:

• http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

Dylan and Ashley discuss the THQ Nordic Showcase and the Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase, both of which aired in the last week, delivering new updates and game reveals.

Show Dot Points

• The hosts share their excitement for upcoming video game showcases.
• PAX preparations are discussed, highlighting early planning and travel logistics.
• THQ Nordic's showcase featured a variety of new game announcements and trailers.
• The Nintendo Direct was perceived as underwhelming compared to THQ Nordic's showcase.
• Battlefield 6's multiplayer reveal sparked cautious optimism among fans.
• The PAX 2025 Indie Showcase winners showcased a diverse range of innovative games.
• Trivia Deal stood out as a unique concept among the indie games.
• The hosts reflect on the nostalgia factor in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 Plus 4.
• The importance of community and social interaction in gaming is emphasised.
• The episode wraps up with a call to action for listener engagement.

Hosts: Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

Episode Timecodes

00:00:00 - Hello 00:01:15 - This Week On The Show 00:03:50 - THQ Nordic Showcase Recap 00:23:45 - Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase Recap 00:33:00 - Battlefield 6 Multiplayer Reveal 00:39:30 - PAX AUS Indie Showcase 2025 Winners 00:47:15 - Goodbye

Resources

• Everything Announced at the THQ Nordic 2025 Showcase - Explosion Network
• Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025: All Trailers & Announcements - Explosion Network
• Battlefield 6 Multiplayer Reveal Highlights Return of Classic Class System & Destruction - Explosion Network
• PAX AUS 2025 Indie Showcase Winners Announced - Explosion Network
• Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 Review - Explosion Network

Arcade Couch Credits:

• Music by: Dylan Blight
• Art by: Cherie Henriques
• Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

All Episodes:

• https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/

Support Us:

• http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

We discuss the 2025 Pokémon Presents and the reveal of Battlefield 6.

Hosts: Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley Ciaran Marchant: https://twitter.com/YaboyRingo

Resources

• Battlefield 6's Reveal Trailer Has Dropped Alongside A Leaked Release Date
• July 2025 Pokémon Presents: Every Game Trailer and Announcement - Explosion Network
• Dying Light: The Beast Delayed to September 19, 2025 - Explosion Network
• https://explosionnetwork.com/sony-makes-strategic-2-5-investment-in-bandai-namco
• Clive Barker’s Hellraiser: Revival Revealed in Official Announcement Trailer - Explosion Network
• Directive 8020 Postponed as Supermassive Games Restructures - Explosion Network
• Wolfenstein is the next game series to get an adaptation for TV | Eurogamer.net

Arcade Couch Credits:

• Music by: Dylan Blight
• Art by: Cherie Henriques
• Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

All Episodes:

• https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/

Support Us:

• http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion

Dylan talks about his time with Donkey Kong Bananza, which has turned into a surprise and one of the year's best games.

Hosts: Dylan Blight: https://twitter.com/vivaladil Ashley Hobley: https://twitter.com/ashleyhobley

Resources

• Upcoming Zelda Film Names Its Link and Zelda Stars - Explosion Network
• Battlefield 6 is seemingly just called Battlefield 6, according to leaked packages sent to content creators that might signal a reveal from EA soon

Arcade Couch Credits:

• Music by: Dylan Blight
• Art by: Cherie Henriques
• Summary Show Notes: Created by Riverside.FM AI Integration

All Episodes:

• https://explosionnetwork.com/arcade-couch/

Support Us:

• http://www.ko-fi.com/explosion