Our Predictions For 2021

Podcast Summary

• Triple Click's 2020 and 2021 Video Game Predictions: The team made and discussed their video game predictions for both 2020 and 2021, with some predictions coming true and others falling short. They looked forward to new games, expansions, and bonus content in the future.

  The Triple Click team made and discussed their video game predictions for both 2020 and 2021. In the 2020 predictions, Maddie believed Nintendo Switch Online would include new and contemporary games and rival Xbox Game Pass. While she didn't exactly win this prediction, she acknowledged that it wasn't as laughable as she thought at the time. Maddie also predicted we would see Metroid Prime 4 gameplay, but that didn't come to pass. The team also shared their excitement for monthly bonus episodes for Max Fun Org members and expanding the roster of what a bonus episode can be. They discussed the rules of their annual predictions game, where whoever gets the most correct gets to choose a game for all three to play and discuss. They also acknowledged that no inside info or delays were allowed in making predictions. In the 2021 predictions, Kirk guessed that God of War 2 would be delayed. The team then reviewed their 2020 predictions and moved on to discussing their excitement for the future of gaming and their plans for the year.

• 2020 video game predictions: hit or miss: While some 2020 video game predictions, like Ellie's girlfriend dying in The Last of Us Part 2, were proven wrong, others, like Among Us's massive popularity, were unexpected but accurate.

  While there were several predictions about upcoming video games and their potential features, none of them were confirmed during the discussed timeframe. Some predictions, like Ellie's girlfriend dying in The Last of Us Part 2 and a mobile game being a Game of the Year contender, were proven wrong. Others, like a Princess Peach game or Breath of the Wild 2's Zelda being playable, remain uncertain. The most influential game of the year contender, Among Us, was a mobile game that gained massive popularity despite not technically releasing in 2020. For future predictions, it would be more specific to tie them to recognized award shows like The Game Awards. Among Us was included in Polygon's 50 best games of the year, highlighting its significant impact despite being primarily a mobile game.

• Predictions that didn't come true in tech and gaming for 2020: Making accurate predictions in tech and gaming industries is difficult due to rapid evolution.

  Several technology and gaming predictions made for 2020 did not come to fruition. Some predictions, like the continued dominance of Epic Store rage, faded away due to lack of significant changes or simply because people grew tired of the topic. Others, like the launch of Twitter's gaming push or Stadia's improvement, did not materialize at all. Additionally, predictions about console controversies and Metroid Prime's rerelease also missed the mark. Despite a few close calls, the year ended with only one correct prediction: the release and positive reception of new mobile games. Overall, the group acknowledged that making accurate predictions in the rapidly evolving tech and gaming industries is a challenging task.

• Predictions for 2020 gaming events: Despite some inaccurate predictions, Facebook and Amazon entered the cloud gaming market, making one prediction a reality.

  While there were several predictions about significant gaming events that did not come to fruition in 2020, there were also some accurate predictions made, such as Electronic Arts announcing a Mass Effect trilogy remaster. Despite some creative predictions, many of the anticipated gaming developments, like Nintendo announcing a new Switch with 4k support or Microsoft announcing xCloud for Switch, did not occur. Additionally, there were no major foreign influence campaigns involving video games on Twitch or YouTube that significantly impacted the 2020 US election. However, Facebook and Amazon did enter the cloud gaming market, making one prediction a reality. Overall, the discussion highlights the excitement and anticipation surrounding the gaming industry, even when predictions don't pan out as expected.

• Facebook enters cloud gaming market with Facebook Gaming: Facebook shifts focus from social media to cloud gaming with the launch of Facebook Gaming, surprising some predictions.

  Facebook entered the cloud gaming market with a new initiative called Facebook Gaming, which was announced on October 26th, 2020. This is a significant departure from their previous focus on social media and games. Although they have been tight-lipped about marketing it, it's clear that this is a cloud game streaming service. I was surprised to get this prediction correct, as I didn't initially think it was a possibility. Another prediction I got right was Valve ending Half-Life: Alyx with a teaser for Half-Life 3. The ending was a total surprise and left fans eager for more. Regarding my predictions that didn't come true, I incorrectly predicted that Nintendo would release the Switch Pro with third-party ports, and Rockstar would announce GTA 6. However, I argued that Google did drastically overhaul Stadia's pricing model, even though it's still somewhat confusing. Lastly, I predicted that PlayStation 5 would massively outsell Xbox Series X in its first month, and while we don't have exact sales numbers, PlayStation 5 has been reported as the biggest console launch in history, suggesting it has outsold Xbox Series X significantly.

• Predictions that didn't pan out in 2021: Some tech predictions like Microsoft's Xbox Series X launch being the biggest ever, a presidential candidate in Fortnite, Apple releasing a game on PC/consoles, Amazon launching a streaming service with Twitch features, a US game studio unionizing, and Sony skipping E3 didn't materialize. Amazon Luna did launch as predicted.

  Several predicted tech events and trends did not come to fruition in 2021. Some of these included Microsoft's Xbox Series X launch being the biggest in history, a presidential candidate participating in a Fortnite event in the way predicted, Apple releasing a game on PC or consoles, Amazon launching a streaming service with built-in Twitch features, a US-based game development studio unionizing, Sony skipping E3, and Disney investing big in a video game company. However, Amazon Luna did launch as predicted, which was a streaming service. It remains to be seen if any of these predictions will come true in the future. The close competition between the predictions resulted in a tie between the two predictors, with no clear winner. In the past, when there have been ties, the predictors have played a game to determine the winner. However, this tradition started more recently, and before that, the losing predictor would buy the winning predictor a steak dinner.

• The group's annual gaming bets have become less financially stressful and more about completing specific video games.: The group's gaming bets now revolve around completing specific games, with predictions including Sony's acquisition of Blue Point studio, Hogwarts Legacy's progressive message, and Metal Gear Solid's return in some form.

  The group's annual gaming bets have evolved from stressful financial wagers to more lighthearted challenges based on completing specific video games. Last year, Maddie won the bet by completing "Bloodborne," and this year, she and Kirk both predicted that Final Fantasy 6 and Half Life 2 would be played in 2021. Some of their predictions for the coming year include Sony buying Blue Point studio, Hogwarts Legacy featuring a progressive message, and the PlayStation 5 becoming widely available for purchase by November. Another prediction is that Metal Gear Solid will return in some form, which could be a game, movie, or TV show. The group is open to debating borderline predictions next year.

• Upcoming gaming events and announcements: Expect major changes in the gaming industry this fall with potential announcements of new games, console exclusivity shifts, and publisher acquisitions

  The upcoming gaming events and announcements, such as the potential reveal of Persona 6, Bungie selling itself, a ZeniMax game not coming to PlayStation, next-gen only triple-A games, and Breath of the Wild 2 possibly releasing this year, are expected to shape the gaming industry this fall. Some predictions, like E3 2021 being entirely online with several big publishers not participating, are more speculative but could significantly impact the event's format and attendance. Overall, these announcements and events could bring significant changes to the gaming landscape, with potential implications for console exclusivity, next-gen adoption, and the role of major publishers.

• Predictions for the Gaming Industry in 2022: Microsoft's xCloud may come to the Switch, Netflix enters game streaming, potential unionization, real-animal streaming, political scandal, new Half Life game, and at least two major announced games may be canceled.

  There are several anticipated developments in the gaming industry predicted for the coming year. These include Microsoft's xCloud coming to the Switch, Netflix expanding their services to include game streaming, the potential unionization of a game studio, the possibility of a real-animal streaming sensation, a major political scandal involving video games, and Valve announcing a new Half Life game for release in 2022. Additionally, there was a debated prediction about Nintendo and Nintendo peripherals, which was edited out, and replaced with the prediction that at least two major announced games will be canceled. While some of these predictions may be more speculative than others, they represent significant trends and possibilities in the gaming industry.

• Predictions for the Gaming Industry in 2021: Maddie predicts people will get a PS5 before vaccines are widely available, E3 might not happen in 2021 and could end permanently, and a notable Republican will enter the gaming streaming market.

  The discussion revolved around various predictions, including Epic losing lawsuits against Apple and Google, a notable Republican entering the gaming streaming market, and a VTuber going rogue. However, a more nuanced prediction from Maddie stood out, suggesting that people will be able to obtain a PS5 before vaccines are regularly available. Another notable prediction was that E3 may not happen in 2021 and could end permanently. These predictions show the anticipation and excitement around gaming and technology trends, as well as the uncertainty and challenges that come with them.

• Gaming community predictions for 2021: Enthusiasts discuss predictions for game releases, bankruptcy or acquisition of GameStop, and potential PC ports, showcasing excitement and passion for gaming despite challenges.

  Despite the challenges and uncertainties of 2020, there's still excitement and anticipation for upcoming game releases and predictions in the gaming community. During a recent discussion, two enthusiasts shared their contrasting predictions, ranging from the playability of Zelda in Breath of the Wild 2, to the release of Elden Ring and Winds of Winter, the potential bankruptcy or acquisition of GameStop, and the possibility of Bloodborne coming to PC. Some predictions were negative, while others were hopeful, leading to lively debates and potential disagreements. The game awards' GOTIE winner was also predicted to be a game that at least one of them wanted to win, and if all three wanted it, it could lead to some interesting debates. Overall, the predictions showcase the excitement and passion for gaming, even amidst the challenges of the current year.

• Sharing Game Recommendations: The hosts discuss engaging games and books, broadening each other's horizons and adding fresh topics to their shows.

  The hosts of The Flop House and Minority Corner shared their recommendations for video games they believe would make for interesting discussions on their respective shows. Maddie suggested Resident Evil 2 remake, which she found engaging and enjoyable despite neither Kirk nor Jason having played it. Kirk proposed Suikoden 2, a game he had wanted to pick the previous year but didn't due to losing the bet, and Elliott recommended the book "Never Split the Difference" by Chris Voss for its insights on negotiation and psychological tricks. Overall, the conversation highlighted the hosts' enthusiasm for sharing their discoveries and the unique perspectives each game or book brought to the table.

• Effective negotiation strategies from Chris Voss: Empathy and active listening are crucial for successful negotiation, leaving both sides feeling satisfied, as shared in Chris Voss's book 'Never Split the Difference'.

  Effective negotiation involves empathy and understanding the other person's perspective, rather than a compromise that leaves both sides feeling unsatisfied. Chris Voss, the author of "Never Split the Difference," shares his experiences and strategies for successful negotiation, including the importance of empathy and active listening. Maddie also recommends reading Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, which she found to be a delightfully spooky and sympathetic portrayal of a monstrous character. She enjoyed listening to the audiobook, which features multiple readers and a particularly resonant voice for the monster. Overall, both Chris Voss's book and Mary Shelley's classic novel offer valuable insights and entertainment.

• Disappointing Release of Wonder Woman 1984 vs. The Old Guard's Success: Wonder Woman 1984 faced technical issues and lacked originality, while The Old Guard offered a clear vision and strong performances in a more collaborative production process.

  The recent release of "Wonder Woman 1984" on streaming platforms was met with technical issues, leaving some viewers disappointed. Despite the return of beloved stars like Gal Gadot and Chris Pine, the sequel felt repetitive and lacked originality. Pedro Pascal and Kristen Wiig brought great presence to their roles, but their characters were confusing. In contrast, the female-led superhero film "The Old Guard," directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, felt like a well-executed movie with a clear vision and strong performances. The production process seemed more collaborative and less focused on marketing and external pressures. Ultimately, "Wonder Woman 1984" missed the mark, leaving fans wishing for more room for Patty Jenkins to showcase Gal Gadot's fantastic portrayal of Wonder Woman.

• Predictions for Final Fantasy 6 and Half Life 2: The Triple Click team shares their thoughts on upcoming games and their plans for playing them, while also reminding listeners to support the show through membership on maximumfund.org.

  The Triple Click team discussed their predictions for upcoming games, Final Fantasy 6 and Half Life 2, and shared their plans for playing these titles. They also reminded listeners that they may receive games for free for review consideration, and encouraged support through membership on maximumfund.org. The show is produced by Jason Schreier, Maddy Myers, and Kirk Hamilton, with music by Tom DJ and ethics information available in the show notes. Triple Click is part of the Maximum Fund Podcast Network and can be found on Twitter and Discord, with more information available on maximumfund.org.