In this episode, we delve into the latest industry news and developments. We start by discussing how EA executives earned a staggering $60 million in 2024, even as the company underwent significant layoffs and office closures. Next, we cover Larry Hryb, known as "Major Nelson," who has joined Unity as the Director of Community after leaving Microso…

In our latest podcast episode, we break down the biggest highlights from Summer Game Fest 2024, covering an incredible array of game reveals and exciting trailers. We discuss the much-anticipated Lego Horizon Adventures, the upcoming Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions, and the brutal zombie shooter No More Room in Hell 2. Additionally, we delve into…

In our latest episode, we dive into Take-Two's potential closure or sale of its indie label Private Division, exploring what this means for the indie game scene. We also highlight Juicy Button's impressive $3 million seed funding to develop a new 4X strategy game, backed by industry veterans. Additionally, we discuss The Believer Company's release …

In the latest episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into the impressive launch of Ubisoft's XDefiant, which has amassed nearly 8 million unique players in its first week, shattering expectations. We also discuss the ongoing saga of Star Citizen, which has now raised over $700 million without a release date in sight. YouTube's new Playables feature, of…

In our latest episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into the tech-packed OneXPlayer X1 Mini, a handheld gaming PC featuring detachable controllers, swappable SSDs, and more. We also discuss Nintendo's surprising acquisition of Shiver Entertainment, the studio behind the Switch ports of Mortal Kombat 1 and Hogwarts Legacy. Additionally, we cover IGN's …

In our latest episode of "Bits, Bytes, and Banter," we dive deep into the current turbulence in the gaming industry. First, we discuss Epic Games facing yet another fine, this time $1.2 million from the Dutch Authority for Consumers & Markets, for exploiting children with Fortnite's microtransactions. We then shift to Ubisoft's major announcements …

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the recent shake-ups in the gaming industry, including Remedy Entertainment's cancellation of 'Project Kestrel' to focus on other projects, the fallout from a Helldivers 2 community manager's dismissal after encouraging negative reviews over a now-canceled PSN mandate, Microsoft's devastating cuts at Bet…

In our latest episode, we dive into the exciting lineup for the upcoming Xbox games showcase on June 9th, featuring an exclusive sneak peek into the next installment of Call of Duty. Additionally, we discuss FaZe Clan's shocking purge of 17 members, helmed by co-founder Richard "Banks" Bengston, signaling a major shift in the influential gaming org…

In our latest episode, we dive into the gaming world's latest headlines. From the release of the Delta emulator on the Apple App Store, offering console emulation from NES to N64, to Take-Two's courtroom victory over a tattoo artist in the NBA 2K series, we cover it all. Additionally, we discuss CI Games' surprising $60 million year, Fallout 76's r…

In the latest episode, we delve into the tumultuous landscape of the gaming industry. We discuss Take-Two's surprising layoffs and project cancellations, Ubisoft's controversial revocation of licenses for The Crew, and the heart-wrenching story of an Alan Wake fan who purchased thousands of unusable copies. Additionally, we cover the alarming theft…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the multifaceted landscape of the gaming industry, covering diverse topics ranging from parental warnings about in-game purchases to the evolution of console exclusives. We begin with the cautionary tale of Michael and Jennifer Ferri, who discovered their 8-year-old son had unwittingly incurred $4,000 in…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the ever-evolving landscape of the gaming industry, covering a range of topics from Embracer Group's restructuring declaration by CEO Lars Wingefors to the fascinating study revealing that some individuals possess a heightened "frame rate" perception, potentially impacting competitive gaming. We also dis…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into a myriad of gaming industry topics, from the groundbreaking advancements of Neuralink's brain-computer interface technology, allowing individuals like Noland Arbaugh to experience newfound freedom, to the turmoil at Kotaku as editor-in-chief Jen Glennon exits due to a shift in editorial focus towards gam…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the gaming industry's latest developments. Epic Games shakes up the market by offering developers 100% revenue for the first six months through its 'Now on Epic' program. Meanwhile, Easy Anti-Cheat denies any responsibility in the Apex Legends hacking fiasco. Embracer Group and Saber Interactive part way…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the seismic shifts in the gaming industry, from the birth of new studios to the upheaval of established ones. We discuss the formation of Emptyvessel, a new triple-A studio led by former Id Software and Disney veterans, promising innovation and high-quality IPs. Meanwhile, the MSI Claw challenges the dom…

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the seismic shifts in the gaming industry, from the closure of beloved brands like Rooster Teeth under Warner Bros. Discovery, resulting in significant layoffs, to Warner Bros. Discovery's strategic pivot towards live services and free-to-play mobile gaming, aiming to capitalize on emerging trends like mi…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the tumultuous landscape of the gaming industry, where major players like Sony, Nintendo, and Electronic Arts are making seismic shifts. Sony's PlayStation division stuns with layoffs affecting 900 employees and studio closures, including PlayStation's London studio. Meanwhile, Nintendo takes legal actio…

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into critical issues facing the gaming industry. We discuss the alarming risk of game preservation highlighted by the Video Game History Foundation, where 87% of classic games in the US are at risk of being lost. We also examine the lawsuit against Activision Blizzard by Optic Texas CEO and a former star playe…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the seismic shifts happening in the gaming and tech world. First up, we discuss Nvidia's astonishing rise to surpass giants like Amazon and Alphabet in market capitalization, solidifying its position as a tech powerhouse amid the AI boom. Then, we dissect Microsoft's strategic moves, including bringing e…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the exciting realm of gaming technology and industry trends. First up, we explore Elgato's long-awaited HDMI 2.1 capture cards tailored for Xbox Series X and PS5 streaming, offering gamers enhanced resolution and framerate options. Then, we delve into the staggering prevalence of live-service games, with…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the exciting world of gaming with diverse topics. First, we explore PDP's innovative Riffmaster, a wireless guitar controller set to release this Spring, compatible with Rock Band 4 and even slated for the Fortnite Festival. Shifting gears, we discuss the Federal Trade Commission's investigation into maj…

In this episode, we delve into the turbulent landscape of the video game industry, exploring the aftermath of mass layoffs that affected major studios like Amazon Games, Ubisoft, Epic Games, and Niantic. Our discussion delves into the findings of the Game Developers Conference survey, revealing the impact on developers' careers and the industry's l…

In this latest podcast episode, we delve into the dynamic shifts in the tech and gaming industry. Microsoft's ascension over Apple as the most valuable company sparks discussions on the growing impact of AI. Ubisoft takes a bold step in rebranding its subscription services, urging players to embrace a world where ownership takes a backseat. A DIY e…

In this podcast episode, we delve into the dynamic landscape of the gaming industry, exploring groundbreaking developments unveiled at CES 2024. First, we unravel the MSI Claw's entry into the handheld gaming scene, boasting an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H chip and innovative design. Next, we dissect Unity's strategic shift involving a significant workf…

In this year-end episode, we unpack the gaming landscape with a focus on the colossal highs and lows. The catastrophic story surrounding "The Day Before" unfolds as the developer shuts down shortly after launch. Our superlative round-up highlights the most and least viewed episodes, along with the longest and shortest ones, while delving into top s…

The latest podcast episode covers The Game Awards 2023, a monumental celebration of gaming's past and future. From the night's big winners, including Baldur's Gate 3 and Alan Wake 2, to the avalanche of exciting announcements like Monster Hunter: Wilds, Kojima's OD project, and God of War Ragnarok's free Valhalla DLC, the show was packed with thril…

In this episode, we dive into a range of gaming updates and revelations. From the comedic chaos of 'Lethal Company' to the redemption journey of 'Cyberpunk 2077,' and Microsoft's Game Awards comeback teasing major Xbox news. Turtle Beach takes a leap into the premium controller realm with the 'Stealth Ultra Wireless Controller,' while Ubisoft's 'Sk…

In our latest podcast, we delve into a flurry of gaming news. First up, the Ayaneo Slide officially launches, boasting an integrated keyboard that's caught the gaming community's eye. Annapurna expands its empire with the acquisition of South Africa's 24 Bit Games, known for its pivotal role in bringing indie games to various platforms. We discuss …

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the shifting landscapes of gaming. Activision Blizzard's esports division sees cuts, marking the end of an era with GameBattles, a renowned tournament platform, also shutting down. On the hardware front, Valve's Steam Deck OLED gears up for release, addressing concerns about bot purchases. Meanwhile, Rock…

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the long-awaited announcement from Rockstar Games about the next Grand Theft Auto (GTA) installment. Set to be unveiled in early December, GTA VI is expected to introduce the series' first female protagonist, drawing inspiration from Bonnie and Clyde, and is rumored to be set in a fictionalized version of…

In the latest episode of our podcast, we discussed major developments in the gaming industry. Sega unveiled its Super Game project, aiming to create a global content provider with a groundbreaking title scheduled for release by March 2026. Capcom is gearing up to launch an unannounced major title by March 2024, aligning with its sales goals. Bungie…

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the gaming world's major updates and changes. We start with the surprise launch of "Ark: Survival Ascended," the Unreal Engine 5 remake of "Ark: Survival Evolved." Then, we discuss Media Molecule's downsizing and shift to a new project, leaving Dreams behind. Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzar…

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into some exciting developments in the gaming world. Boutique handheld gaming company Ayaneo reveals its new Flip DS, a handheld gaming device inspired by the Nintendo DS, while Battlefield 2042 stages a remarkable comeback with a surge in player numbers. Intel is gearing up to launch its 14th Gen desktop proc…

In this episode, we dive into the exciting world of gaming and tech updates. First, Sony announces a sleeker and more versatile PS5 model, featuring a detachable disc drive and 1TB internal storage. The InZone Buds are introduced as Sony's first gaming-focused wireless earbuds, optimized for battery life and low latency. Cloud-streamed PS5 gaming i…

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the gaming world's latest developments. We explore SteelSeries' new Alias and Alias Pro microphones, designed for gamers and streamers. We discuss recent layoffs at Twitch and their impact on the company. Epic Games is making age ratings mandatory for Fortnite content, marking a shift in its ecosystem. Ni…

In our recent podcast episode, we delved into a multitude of gaming industry topics. We discussed the restructuring at Blizzard Entertainment, where several developers on the Hearthstone team were laid off as part of internal changes. This coincides with Microsoft's impending acquisition of Activision Blizzard. We also covered Electronic Arts' remo…

In our recent podcast episode, we delved into some intriguing developments in the gaming industry. First, Microsoft's upcoming console refresh, codenamed Brooklin, is set to revolutionize the Xbox Series X with a cylindrical design, increased storage, and an immersive controller. We also discussed the surprising resurgence of Titanfall 2, as Respaw…

In our latest episode, we dive deep into the gaming industry's hottest topics. We're breaking down Unity's controversial new pricing model that's leaving developers furious, Apple's game-changing announcements for the iPhone 15 Pro, Ubisoft's certification setback with xDefiant, and EA's groundbreaking approach to The Sims' next-gen game pricing. P…

In our latest podcast episode, we're diving into an exciting array of topics. First up, we explore Lenovo's foray into handheld gaming PCs with the Legion Go, featuring a sizable QHD Plus screen and AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor. Shifting gears, we discuss the London Royal Ravens' surprising move to North America, rebranding as the Carolina Royal …

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we're delving into the gaming world's latest developments. Sony's impending price increase for PlayStation Plus subscriptions raises eyebrows as we discuss its impact and implications. Shifting focus to handheld gaming, we examine the intriguing Ayaneo Kun, a handheld with a battery life challenge that aims to out…

In this week's episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into a plethora of exciting developments in the gaming industry. First off, Sony unveils its upcoming portable gaming device, the PlayStation Portal remote player, set to stream PS5 games over Wi-Fi. Meanwhile, we explore the surprising impact of UK regulatory rejection on Microsoft's $69 billion ac…

In this podcast episode, several significant gaming topics are covered. Xbox has introduced a new strike-based enforcement system to address offensive player conduct, with different levels of severity based on the inappropriate activity, ranging from profanity to hate speech. Turn 10's upcoming Forza Motorsport will lack certain features at launch,…

In this podcast episode, the hosts delve into the emerging era of PCIe Gen 5 solid state drives (SSDs), exploring their potential impact on PC gaming and workflow optimization. Tom Warren has been rigorously testing Crucial's T700 PCIe Gen 5.0 NVMe SSD and Seagate's FireCuda 540, aiming to uncover the tangible benefits of this latest storage genera…

In this podcast episode, Ubisoft has announced that the upcoming game Assassin's Creed Mirage will have a much shorter completion time compared to its RPG predecessors. The RPG trilogy of Assassin's Creed games featured massive open worlds and endless quests, making it overwhelming for completionists. However, Mirage will have a more confined map f…

In this podcast episode, the hosts discuss the significant drop in solid-state drive (SSD) prices, making them more accessible to consumers. SSDs, which were once considered expensive and reserved for high-end PC users, are now commonly found in gaming consoles and computers. The episode highlights examples of drastic price reductions, with some be…

In this podcast episode, the hosts discuss various topics related to the gaming industry and recent developments. They begin with the news of Xbox Live Gold transitioning to "Core" under the Game Pass label, but without any changes to online access or Console Game Pass, which leaves some users confused and dissatisfied with the separation. The epis…

In this podcast episode, the focus is on the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) appeal against the court order allowing Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The FTC is seeking to present its arguments in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The episode also highlights the ongoing support for Halo: The Master Chief Collection by Microsoft an…

In this podcast episode, Microsoft's anticipation of a PS5 Slim model being released later this year is discussed. The potential pricing of the console is speculated to be $399.99, similar to PlayStation's Digital Edition. The episode also highlights Ubisoft's MouseTrap system, which has successfully reduced the number of cheaters in Rainbow Six Si…

In this podcast episode, the hosts delve into the recent FTC v. Microsoft case, which has uncovered new information about Microsoft's proposed acquisitions. According to FTC filings, Ninja Theory was acquired by Microsoft for $117 million. The internal emails from Microsoft also revealed potential acquisition targets, including Bungie and Sega. The…

Microsoft plans to increase the prices of Xbox Series X consoles in most countries, except for the US, Japan, Chile, Brazil, and Colombia. The monthly prices for Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscriptions will also be raised for the first time. EA is undergoing a restructuring, dividing into EA Sports and EA Games (now EA Entertainmen…