Dense Pixels - Video Game News and Reviews

Microsoft announces yet another price increase on their gaming consoles, and the hosts explain why their competitors will likely follow suit with similar price hikes. The discussion examines how rapidly increasing component costs show no signs of stopping and will almost certainly impact the pricing of upcoming console generations. The pricing structure for Grand Theft Auto VI has finally been rev...

The Steam Machine is finally a reality with Valve announcing the official release date and pricing details. The hosts share their thoughts on how the price aligns with market expectations and debate whether this gaming device represents a worthwhile purchase for its target audience at the price point Valve is charging. Epic Games reveals the first details about Unreal Engine 6, and the hosts expre...

Brad rejoins millions of lapsed Guardians checking out Destiny 2 in the wake of its final update, the recently released Monument of Triumph. He finds himself unexpectedly hooked back into Bungie's space opera, rediscovering what made the franchise so compelling despite its controversial live service ending. Nintendo's Summer Game Fest Nintendo Direct delivered major announcements that the hosts br...

It's the week of not-E3 or Keigh-3...better known as Summer Game Fest, and we dive deep into the major presentations from across the industry, highlighting the games that most captured our attention and excitement. Sony's presentation delivered impressive announcements including Marvel's Wolverine, Dr Doom coming to Marvel Tokon, Rayman Legends Untold bringing a classic platformer back with new ad...

Brad and Micah have both completed 007 First Light and share their thoughts on James Bond's triumphant return to video games. The Men with the Golden Tongues discuss whether this new spy thriller lives up to the iconic franchise's legacy and what makes it stand out in the gaming landscape. Brad has also explored Mina the Hollower and finds himself disappointed as the game fails to live up to expec...

Brad delivers his review of Forza Horizon 6, finding the racing game very fun while simultaneously identifying significant missed opportunities. He critiques how the game fails to meaningfully differentiate itself from prior Forza Horizon entries and doesn't fully embrace the unique possibilities of its Japanese setting, leaving potential on the table. Subnautica 2 launches to impressive success w...

Brad finds himself completely engrossed in the revamped Diablo IV endgame experience following the Lord of Hatred expansion, crediting the addition of a legitimate and satisfying crafting system that transforms the itemization grind. The new mechanics have breathed fresh life into the action RPG's post-campaign content. The long-awaited Steam Controller finally arrives and it's pretty damn good ac...

Brad shares his comprehensive review after crushing through Vampire Crawlers, analyzing how this spiritual successor stacks up against the genre-defining Vampire Survivors. He breaks down the similarities, improvements, and what makes this deck building roguelike worth players' time. Micah checks out the superhero brawler Invincible VS and finds himself disappointed by the execution. He explains w...

Micah and Brad share their impressions of Pragmata, exploring what makes this intriguing departure from Capcom's typical offerings such a remarkable and unique gaming experience. They analyze the game's innovative mechanics, atmospheric storytelling, and how it stands apart from the publisher's established franchises. Micah has been fully indoctrinated into the world of Crimson Desert, but the que...

Terrence continues investing significant time into Crimson Desert, discussing what makes the game absolutely compelling and addictive for him personally despite his hesitation to recommend it broadly to others. He explores the paradox of loving a game while recognizing its polarizing nature and niche appeal. Disney and Epic Games are reportedly collaborating on a Disney-themed extraction shooter,...

Carrie shares her thoughts on the Super Mario Galaxy movie, giving it a solid if unremarkable assessment. The hosts dive into the specific aspects she genuinely enjoyed while examining why critics responded negatively to Nintendo's latest animated film adaptation and whether that criticism is fair. Brad provides detailed impressions from the Civilization VII Test of Time playtest that took place o...

Brad expresses amazement at Marathon's Cryo Archive map design while confronting the sobering reality that he may never fully experience everything this complex environment has to offer. The map showcases Bungie's ambitious level design but highlights accessibility challenges for casual players. Carrie delivers a glowing review of the latest Final Fantasy: Distant Worlds concert tour, sharing her...

Carrie shares the incredible experience of performing at GDC with her band Premium Vintage alongside Hades composer Darren Korb, one of gaming's most celebrated musicians. The performance brought together gaming music talent in an unforgettable showcase at the Game Developers Conference. Carrie delivers enthusiastic early impressions of Monster Hunter Stories 3, praising the game's improvements an...

Carrie shares her early impressions of Pokemon Pokopia and the timeless RPG classic Chrono Trigger. Her insights offer perspective on how both games approach storytelling and gameplay. Brad expresses his genuine enthusiasm for Marathon's multiplayer experience while being completely blown away by the early access release of Slay the Spire II. The roguelike deckbuilder sequel has exceeded his expec...

Micah shares his detailed impressions of two major releases with God of War: Sons of Sparta and Resident Evil 9. Carrie takes a nostalgic journey back to her childhood with the digital release of Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen, exploring how these classic Kanto remakes hold up in the modern era and what makes them special for longtime Pokemon fans. Brad and Terrence dive into their experiences with...

Microsoft shakes the gaming industry to its core with the stunning announcement of Phil Spencer's retirement from Xbox leadership, Sarah Bond's unexpected departure, and the promotion of former AI executive Asha Sharma to the position of Xbox CEO. The hosts provide deep analysis of Spencer's complex legacy at Xbox, explore the circumstances surrounding Sarah Bond's exit and whether she left volunt...

Brad explores the bizarre and fascinating world of Mewgenics, a unique tactical game that combines turn-based strategy with cat breeding mechanics. The question is whether this quirky title can overcome his usual aversion to turn-based tactical games with its unusual premise. Carrie shares her excitement for Monster Hunter Stories 3 after diving into the substantial new demo that recently launched...

Terrence uncovers a hidden gem in the roguelite genre with his impressions of Kiborg, a brawler that deserves more attention from fans of challenging action games. The game combines roguelite mechanics with intense combat for a compelling experience. Brad provides an in-depth review of No Rest for the Wicked following Moon Studios' new co-op update that significantly enhances the gameplay experien...

Terrence shares his detailed impressions of Highguard and the hosts dive into predictions about the game's potential success in this competitive field in gaming. Brad reviews two charming indie games that deliver nostalgic throwback experiences with Vital Shell and Super 10 Pin. These smaller titles prove that indie developers continue to capture the magic of classic gaming while adding their own...

Carrie shares her exciting experience attending and performing at MAGfest this year, bringing listeners behind the scenes of one of gaming's most beloved music and gaming conventions. Brad dives into his hands-on impressions of the new Tokyo Xtreme Racer, a game that authentically captures the PS2 era racing experience with both its nostalgic charm and its dated quirks. Meta makes a dramatic busin...

Brad went a little wild during the Steam Winter Sale and came away with a pile of indie games that mostly rule. He breaks down his early impressions of Reus 2, 9 Kings, and Sol Cesto, and explains why these smaller releases continue to outshine big-budget fare. Carrie has been catching up on her backlog with Blue Prince and The Legend of Zelda: Age of Imprisonment, and even dusted off the SNES to...

We break down Expedition 33’s sweeping dominance at The Game Awards and discuss what the show gets right—and where it still needs to evolve. From surprise wins to pacing and presentation, we explore how the TGAs could better serve both developers and fans going forward. We also dive into the biggest announcements from The Game Awards, including Brad and Micah’s reactions to the Street Fighter movi...

It’s Dense Pixels’ annual Game of the Year celebration, and we're breaking down the very best games of 2025. We reveal our top 10 lists, debate the titles that earned our podcast-wide consensus honors, and look back at the standout games chosen by our listeners. Join us for our biggest episode of the year as we highlight the releases that defined 2025 and the games we think will leave a lasting im...

Brad has been completely derailed by yet another GOTY contender thanks to the release of the high-octane arcade shooter Sektori. Micah has been digging into Marvel Cosmic Invasion, but it may have only made him appreciate Dotemu's other recent release - Absolum - even more. Meanwhile, Brad is learning firsthand why Final Fantasy IV may be the strangest and most experimental entry in the early seri...

Lumines Arise is finally here, and Brad delivers his full review—explaining why this entry may be the definitive Lumines experience. He’s also been deep into Anno 117: Pax Romana and shares his thoughts on how this historic city-builder stacks up. Valve has announced an exciting slate of new hardware set to release next year. We break down the lineup and which devices Brad plans to pick up on day...