Dylan and Ciaran discuss their time at IEM Melbourne 2025, from the Counter-Strike matches to the event itself.

We also talk about the release of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, how it potentially blocked Clair Obscur somewhat, and the news that Split-Fiction is already getting a film.

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

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 Ciaran attempt to plan their IEM trip for this week, and we also discuss the details of Mario Kart World.

Show Dot Points

• The hosts are excited about the upcoming IEM event.
• They discuss the possibility of recording a podcast live from the event.
• Travel logistics are a key concern for the hosts.
• The event is sold out, indicating a strong interest in esports in Australia.
• The hosts plan to attend various matches and events during the weekend.
• They express uncertainty about the event schedule and logistics.
• The conversation includes humour and banter among the hosts.
• The hosts are considering their travel options to Melbourne.
• They discuss the significance of Anzac Day in relation to the event.
• The hosts are eager to experience the atmosphere of the IEM event. Car parking can be a significant concern during events.
• Planning ahead for gaming events like PAX is essential.
• Tempopo offers a unique puzzle experience with musical elements.
• The success of Unpacking sets high expectations for its developers.
• Star Wars Zero Company promises engaging tactical gameplay.
• Mario Kart World Direct reveals exciting new courses and features.
• Indie games often rely on word of mouth for success.
• The gaming community values narrative elements in games.
• Game announcements can generate varying levels of excitement.
• Planning itineraries for gaming events can make the experience even better. Mario Kart World introduces 24-player races, doubling the previous limit.
• The game features a variety of characters, including unexpected ones like a cow and a fish.
• New game modes include Grand Prix, Knockout Tour, Free Roam, and Battle Mode.
• Pricing for Mario Kart World is set at $120, raising discussions about game value.
• Nintendo's games tend to retain their value and rarely go on sale.
• The hosts express a desire for more innovative games in the industry.
• The importance of game design and player experience is emphasised.
• Music plays a significant role in enhancing the gaming experience.
• The hosts discuss the need for diverse game offerings to support creativity in game development.
• The conversation ends with light-hearted banter about movie plans.

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

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 South of Midnight, Xbox's newest game from Compulsion Games, as well as a hands-on impression of Rematch, the new soccer/football game from the developers of SIFU.

Show Dot Points

• The hosts express excitement for the upcoming episode.
• 'South of Midnight' features a unique art style and storytelling approach.
• The game explores themes of racial inequality and personal relationships.
• Gameplay mechanics include exploration and combat, though the latter feels unnecessary at times.
• Bungie's 'Marathon' is set to launch in September 2025 with a premium price model.
• The game will support cross-play and cross-save across platforms.
• The hosts discuss the potential success of 'Marathon' based on Bungie's reputation.
• HBO's 'The Last of Us' has been renewed for a third season ahead of its second season premiere.
• The renewal indicates confidence in the show's success.
• The hosts speculate on the narrative direction of The Last of Us series. Characters' emotional journeys are crucial in storytelling.
• Directorial choices can significantly impact the narrative experience.
• Narrative complexity in video games can lead to richer adaptations.
• The future of 'The Last of Us' franchise remains uncertain but promising.
• Audience reactions can sometimes disrupt the cinema experience.
• Innovative gameplay mechanics can enhance player engagement.
• Character development is key to audience connection.
• The balance between humor and seriousness in adaptations is delicate.
• Understanding audience demographics can inform marketing strategies.
• The evolution of video game adaptations is an ongoing journey.

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

Episode Timecodes

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Anticipation 02:58 Exploring 'South of Midnight' 06:13 Gameplay Mechanics and Storytelling 08:56 Bungie's 'Marathon' Reveal 14:54 HBO's 'The Last of Us' Season 3 Renewal 22:50 The Emotional Journey of Characters 25:04 Directorial Choices and Their Impact 28:06 Narrative Complexity in Video Game Adaptations 30:02 The Future of The Last of Us Franchise 32:22 Audience Reactions and Cinema Etiquette 41:39 Innovative Gameplay in New Titles

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