Podcast Summary
Next-gen consoles and fundraising events: The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X cater to different preferences, while MaxFun Drive supports Triple Click and provides bonus content for members. Deadspin, a former workplace for some hosts, has returned as a worker-owned cooperative called Defector, offering unique content and a subscription model.
The next generation of consoles, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, offer different advantages depending on individual preferences. Meanwhile, MaxFun Drive is a fundraising event that supports Triple Click and provides bonus content for its members. MaxFun Drive is essential for the show's continuation, and members receive bonus content, such as spoiler casts and pins. Additionally, Deadspin, a former workplace for some of the hosts, has returned as a worker-owned cooperative called Defector. This new venture allows its writers to own a part of the company and offers a subscription model for readers. The hosts express excitement for the return of Deadspin's unique voice and content in the media landscape.
New console generation brings excitement and innovation to gaming: Despite pandemic challenges, new consoles offer compelling reasons to upgrade with potential for new games and increased processing power, catering to diverse needs and preferences of gamers.
The new console generation, despite the challenges of the current pandemic, brings excitement and innovation to the gaming world. While some may not feel the immediate need to upgrade, the potential for new games and increased processing power offers a compelling reason for many. The consoles represent a variety that caters to different types of gamers. For some, it's a comforting return to normalcy in an uncertain time, while for others, it's a long-awaited upgrade. The future of gaming is here, and it's exciting. Additionally, the discussion touched on the unique aspects of the new consoles, such as the ability to vote out an editor-in-chief at a media outlet, which changes the dynamics of the industry. The anticipation for the new consoles and their offerings is palpable, and the variety they represent caters to the diverse needs and preferences of gamers.
Console Launches: A Time of Anticipation and Discovery: While some gamers hold off on console purchases due to powerful gaming PCs, others still look forward to new console launches. Nintendo has yet to announce a new console, while Xbox unveiled new games at their launch event.
The excitement surrounding new console launches, such as the PS5 and Xbox Series X, brings back memories of the anticipation and discovery of previous generations. However, with the increasing popularity of high-powered gaming PCs, some gamers, like the speaker, find less reason to buy a new console at launch. The speaker shares their personal experiences of covering console launches in the past and the importance of covering even seemingly insignificant details, like the location of power buttons. Nintendo, on the other hand, has yet to reveal any plans for a new console this year. Xbox, in contrast, had a big launch event and unveiled new games like Fable and Halo Infinite. Overall, the console race continues to heat up with unique strategies from each company.
Microsoft's new approach to gaming: Flexibility over exclusivity: Microsoft is making its new games available on multiple platforms, including Xbox Series X, Xbox One, and PC, and emphasizing the flexibility of Xbox Game Pass, marking a shift away from exclusivity in the console wars.
Microsoft's approach to gaming, with their new announcements, seems to be shifting away from exclusivity and towards flexibility. They announced several new games, including Avowed and Forza, for the Xbox Series X, but emphasized that these games will also be available on Xbox One and PC. This contrasts with the PlayStation approach of requiring console ownership to access certain games. Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass, which offers a vast library of games for a monthly fee, is seen as a major part of their strategy. Chris Plante at Polygon and Christopher Dring at gamesindustry.biz have both argued that the console wars might not be a war anymore, as each company is approaching gaming differently and can declare victory on their own terms. For gamers, this means more options and flexibility, allowing them to choose whether to invest in a new console or stick with their current setup or PC.
Microsoft's Shift from Console Sales to Xbox Game Pass Subscriptions: Microsoft is moving away from selling consoles and towards offering a subscription service, Xbox Game Pass, for access to a vast library of games on Xbox and PC for a monthly fee. The model benefits gamers, PC users, and developers, though details about revenue sharing are unclear.
Microsoft's approach to gaming is shifting from selling consoles to offering subscriptions through Xbox Game Pass. For a monthly fee of $10 on Xbox and $5 on PC, subscribers get access to a vast library of games, including new releases and a backlog of titles. Microsoft seems uninterested in competing directly with Sony for console sales and instead focuses on expanding its subscription service. The deal is particularly attractive for PC gamers and those without an Xbox, as they can still access Microsoft's exclusive titles. The subscription model is also beneficial for developers, with some reports suggesting an upfront payment, making it a more stable income stream compared to other platforms. While the exact details are not clear, it appears that developers may not receive residuals or ongoing revenue from the games' popularity on Game Pass. Nonetheless, the service offers a significant value for gamers, with the potential to save money on game purchases.
Microsoft's Xbox strategy focuses on subscribers and brand longevity: Microsoft's Xbox conference lacked impressive gameplay, but the company's messaging emphasizes subscribers and long-term investment in the brand
While Microsoft's Xbox conference did not leave a strong impression with its game lineup, the company's overall console strategy was seen as more customer and gamer-friendly compared to Sony's exclusives-focused approach. The Xbox conference showed a lack of gameplay and many games that seemed far from release, leaving some underwhelmed. However, Microsoft's executives' messaging and tweets suggest a focus on subscribers and the longevity of the brand, rather than just selling consoles. While the software lineup from Microsoft's show was seen as promising, it was felt that many games were too early in development to be showcased effectively. Microsoft has made notable acquisitions of game studios, which bodes well for future software offerings.
Microsoft and Sony's gaming strategies: Microsoft is expanding its game offerings through acquisitions, while Sony relies on exclusives to attract buyers
Microsoft's gaming strategy at their recent conference focused on the acquisition of various studios and the upcoming release of a multitude of new games for their subscription service. While the games showcased didn't all meet expectations, particularly with Halo Infinite, the promise of a robust lineup of new titles is promising. In contrast, Sony's strategy at their conference leaned heavily on exclusives, such as Horizon Forbidden West, to entice buyers to purchase the PlayStation 5 this fall. Despite criticisms of exclusivity and potential consumer frustration, this strategy has proven effective in the past and is expected to continue driving sales. Ultimately, both companies are taking unique approaches to cater to different segments of the gaming market.
Subscription services like Xbox Game Pass offer an appealing alternative during economic uncertainty: Consider subscription services for cost savings, or opt for a PC or Nintendo Switch instead of expensive consoles during economic uncertainty
During times of economic uncertainty, subscription services like Xbox Game Pass offer an appealing alternative to buying expensive hardware and individual games. Microsoft's strategic planning and investment in subscription services over the years have put them in a competitive position, especially when compared to the high cost of consoles like the PS5. The speaker suggests that those with budget constraints or families might find this model more appealing. Additionally, the ongoing trend of game releases on PC, such as Horizon Zero Dawn and potential future Sony games, makes a powerful gaming PC an attractive option. Ultimately, the recommendation is to wait and consider a PC or Nintendo Switch as alternatives to the current console wars.
Console Market: A Multi-Player Game with Nintendo: Nintendo carves out a unique space in the console market, Sony may adopt a more platform-agnostic approach, and crucial details about upcoming consoles like pricing and launch lineups are still unknown.
The console market is not a simple two-player game, with Nintendo carving out a unique space for itself as a complementary console to PC or other gaming devices. The industry is undergoing shifts, and Sony may eventually embrace a more platform-agnostic approach to expand its reach. The upcoming console releases, including the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, are still shrouded in uncertainty, with crucial details like pricing and launch lineups yet to be revealed. It's generally advised against purchasing a console on launch due to the lack of information. MaxFun Tribe, a fundraising campaign for the show, was mentioned, and the hosts encouraged listeners to support the show in various ways, including becoming members at maximumfun.org/join.
A captivating samurai game with stunning art direction and engaging combat: Ghost of Tsushima is an immersive game with beautiful graphics, deep combat mechanics, and a minimalistic UI that relies on wind direction for navigation.
Ghost of Tsushima is an immersive and enjoyable samurai game with stunning art direction and engaging combat. The game, which can be described as an Assassin's Creed-style experience set in feudal Japan, offers a balance of stealth and swordplay as players take on the role of Jin, a samurai trying to reconcile his honor with the necessity of sneaking and fighting to protect his island from Mongol invaders. The combat system is deep, with various stances and enemy types to consider, and the game's UI is minimalistic, relying on wind direction to guide players to their next objective. Overall, Ghost of Tsushima provides a captivating and unique gaming experience that is both visually stunning and mechanically engaging.
Nintendo Leak Raises Ethical Dilemmas: The leak of old Nintendo source code brings historical significance and ethical concerns as unfinished and confidential content is made public, potentially disrupting original intentions.
The speaker is currently enjoying the PS4 exclusive game being developed by Sucker Punch, but finds its animations less polished compared to recent high-budget titles like The Last of Us. The news of a massive leak of old Nintendo source code and files has brought up ethical dilemmas regarding the public release of unfinished and confidential content. The speaker expresses mixed feelings about the situation, acknowledging the historical significance of the leaked information but also the moral implications of its illegal acquisition. The leaks have revealed early designs and concepts for classic Nintendo games, offering a glimpse into the creative process but also potentially disrupting the original intentions of the artists involved.
Ethical dilemma of releasing unfinished video game content: The release of unfinished video game content sheds light on hidden stories but violates privacy, raising complex ethical questions with no clear answer.
The recent release of unfinished video game content raises complex ethical questions. On one hand, it sheds light on personal stories and historical information that might not have been made public otherwise. On the other hand, it violates the privacy of individuals and companies involved. The debate around the morality of releasing such content is ongoing, and it's unclear if there is a legitimate way to do it without infringing on others' rights. The speaker expresses mixed feelings about the situation, acknowledging the potential public benefit but also the harm caused. Ultimately, the decision to release such content was made by hackers, leaving open the question of who gets to decide what should be made public and what should remain private.
Exploring the complexities of information leaks in video games: While leaks can negatively impact companies and privacy, they can also reveal historical info and contribute to public good. 'Carrion' is a recommended game that showcases unique perspective and great music.
While the release of confidential information can have negative consequences, such as making companies more opaque and potentially invading privacy, it can also bring important historical information to light and contribute to the public good. For example, the discovery of previously unknown elements in video games can enrich the understanding and appreciation of video game history. Regarding a specific game recommendation, "Carrion" by Phobia Game Studio is a well-received title that allows players to experience the game as the monster, offering a unique perspective and a great length. The game's music, composed by Chris Velasco, adds to the classic horror movie atmosphere, and the movement mechanics provide a satisfying blend of speed and stealth. Overall, the discussion highlights the complex nature of information leaks and the potential benefits they can bring, even in the context of potential harm.
A Monstrous Journey into an Abstract Horror World: Carrion is a 6-hour long, immersive game where players embody a monstrous creature, with a mysterious storyline, satisfying sound effects, and a perfect length. Not for the faint-hearted or those disliking story-driven or gross games.
Carrion is a unique and immersive gaming experience that transports players into an abstract horror world where they embody a monstrous creature. The game's tone and flow are reminiscent of Playdead's Inside, with a mysterious storyline conveyed through opaque means, no dialogue, and satisfying sound effects. The sound design is an essential aspect of the game, with moody music and satisfying sound effects enhancing the power fantasy experience. The game's enemies lack personality, and players never learn much about them, making them otherworldly and insignificant in comparison to the player's monstrous character. The game's length is perfect at around 6 hours, and the ending is satisfying, making it a must-play for fans of story-driven and gross games. Carrion is available on all consoles and PC, but it may not be suitable for those with weak stomachs or a dislike for story-driven or gross games. Additionally, a shoutout to CrossCode's recent Switch patch and the ongoing MaxFunDrive for supporters.
Welcome to Triple Click Podcast: A comedy and culture podcast produced by Kirk Hamilton, Maddie Myers, and Jason Schrier, part of Maximum Fun Network, invites listeners to join as members for bonus content.
The Triple Click podcast, produced by Kirk Hamilton, Maddie Myers, and Jason Schrier, is a comedy and culture show that is proudly part of the Maximum Fun Podcast Network. Listeners are encouraged to become members at maximumfund.org/join for bonus episodes and other perks. The team thanks everyone for listening and invites new listeners to join them. The podcast is produced, mixed, and themed by Kirk, with art by Tom DJ. Find them online at tripleclickpodcast.com, on Twitter @tripleclickpod, and email them at tripleclick@maximumfund.org. They appreciate your support and look forward to bringing you more entertaining and thought-provoking content.
