Microsoft's cross-platform success, upcoming remasters like Gears of War and Echo the Dolphin, and speculation around a Xbox-branded handheld got real this week. We debate about console competition, exclusivity, and digital storefront strategies, particularly Epic Games’ new developer incentives. They really wanna get the deals. Underwater level phobias. The new GTA trailer, and loads more!GAMES PLAYEDJONClair Obscur: Expedition 33SCOTTKingdom Come Deliverance IIESO, ES4, SkyrimMore TsushimaBEAUHeroes of the Storm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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1:56:12
CORE 468: Jackin' That Price
We discussed upcoming games like DOOM: The Dark Ages and Borderlands 4, along with delays for Grand Theft Auto 6 (now May 2026). Claire Obscure: Expedition 33 was praised for its stunning art, engaging combat, and emotional storytelling, though some criticized its timing mechanics. Sunderfolk, a couch co-op tactical RPG using phones as controllers, was highlighted for its seamless multiplayer and creative gameplay. We also touched on Ghost of Tsushima's satisfying ending and Overwatch 3's mobile MOBA announcement, which sparked mixed reactions. Lastly, we shared listener feedback and teased a potential Shadowdark campaign. GAMES PLAYEDSCOTTVirtua Cop. (You heard me.)JONBeat Ghost of TsushimaClair Obscur: Expedition 33FortniteBEAUSunderfolk V RisingMore MTG! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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3:03:22
CORE 467: Shadow Drop From Hell
The usual fun CORE time, including a shadow drop of a remastered Oblivion that impresses with modern graphics and UI while preserving some nostalgic jank. Excitement and skepticism around Nintendo Switch 2 preorders and supply issues. Also Sunderfolk, a co-op RPG using mobile phones as controllers, and a new Star Wars tactical RPG in the style of XCOM. All the games we played. And catching factual flaws in game history.GAMES PLAYEDSHAREDThe Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion RemasterClair Obscur: Expedition 33Tempest RisingSCOTTCreepy Redneck Dinosaur Mansion IIIMore Ghost of TsushimaMinishoot AdventuresJONShadowDarkCyberPunk 2077Blue PrinceGhost of TsushimaBEAUAge of Wonders 4SKALD Against the Black PrioryMandragora: Whispers of the Witch TreeMagic: the GatheringValheimHeroes of the StormStarCraft II Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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2:39:04
CORE SPECIAL: Crashlands 2 and Seth Coster interview
Seth Coster, co-founder of Butterscotch Shenanigans, discusses Crashlands 2 with host Scott Johnson. They reflect on the smoother launch compared to the original, design philosophy that removes common survival game frustrations, and the importance of story, humor, and progression. Seth shares insights on development challenges, lessons from past games like Levelhead, community feedback, and upcoming patches. They also touch on player expectations, studio transparency, and the significance of their long-running podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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43:22
CORE 466: Marathon Runners
We discussed Bungie’s reveal of the new extraction shooter Marathon, with mixed reactions—Scott liked the visuals, but none were excited by the genre really. We praised Baldur’s Gate 3’s final patch, talking new subclasses and full crossplay. Oblivion is rumored to be getting a remaster, as soon as next week, and sparking hope for a future Morrowind remake. We criticized PS5 price hikes and gushed over collector’s editions like the Doom “Will it Run” box, that none of us will own. GAMES PLAYEDScott Crashlands 2 Return to Monkey Island Ghost of TsushimaJon Blue Prince The Last of Us Part 2 WorldBox: God Simulator Ghost of Tsushima Baldur's Gate 3 Cyberpunk 2077Beau Dreamhaven’s Wildgate Runescape: Dragonwilds Tarkir: Dragonstorm (MTG Arena Drafts) Valheim Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted by podcasting vet, Scott Johnson, Jon Jagger and Beau Schwartz. Weekly, on the frogpants network. Video games and the issues around them every week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
New Zealand