M2 Podcast

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we explore the deep cuts and shifting strategies shaking up the games industry. Warner Bros. reports a 48% drop in Q1 games revenue, pointing to no major releases and the underperformance of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. Square Enix unveils a three-year reboot plan aimed at consistent, high-quality, multiplatform game releases. Meanwhile, former Ubisoft dir...

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into Microsoft's sweeping Xbox price hikes—consoles, controllers, and even first-party games are getting more expensive worldwide. We also unpack Bungie’s bold Star Wars crossover with Destiny 2’s new Renegades expansion, lightsabers and all. Plus, EA teases a full Battlefield reveal coming this summer with a release still expected before April 2026. And...

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dig into EA's turbulent week, from cutting 300 jobs—including roughly 100 at Respawn—and reportedly canceling a Titanfall project, to spotlighting their impressive anticheat tech, EA Javelin, which boasts a 99% accuracy rate in banning cheaters. We also explore the shutdown of the iconic Wii Homebrew Channel amid serious code theft allegations that have ro...

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we explore how nostalgia might be Bethesda's secret weapon as the surprise remaster of Oblivion rekindles excitement among Elder Scrolls fans—just when the studio needed it most. We also dive into Fortnite’s upcoming Star Wars: Galactic Battle season, featuring the wild debut of Darth Jar Jar and Force Lightning. On the Nintendo front, we break down the growing s...

In this episode, we dive into the latest buzz surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2—including a surprising move by Nintendo that lets players borrow, resell, and trade digital games via new game-key cards. We also break down why Switch 2's GameChat might look a little choppy and why that's totally intentional. Plus, with Xbox announcing its next major showcase just days after the Switch 2 laun...

In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about the Nintendo Switch 2—from its hefty price tags to its impressive new tech. With Mario Kart World launching at $80 and accessories stacking up in cost, is Nintendo testing the limits of what fans will pay? Meanwhile, Nvidia has confirmed that the Switch 2 will feature DLSS and real-time ray tracing, promising major performance upgrad...

In this episode, we dive into some of the biggest gaming industry shake-ups. With GTA 6 looming on the horizon, publishers are scrambling to avoid releasing their titles in its wake, fearing the inevitable sales juggernaut. Meanwhile, Warner Bros. was reportedly working on a Mario Kart-style crossover racer featuring characters like Tom and Jerry, but the project was ultimately shelved. In brighte...

In this episode, we explore some of the biggest gaming industry updates and discussions. Bethesda's Todd Howard names Tetris and Pac-Man as the most important games of all time, while citing Super Mario Bros. and Doom as the most influential. Meanwhile, Hazelight’s Josef Fares has already started work on his next project following the success of Split Fiction , reaffirming the studio’s strong...

In this episode, we delve into recent developments in the gaming industry. Take-Two Interactive has filed a lawsuit against PlayerAuctions, alleging the sale of unauthorized, hacked Grand Theft Auto V content, disrupting fair gameplay. Sony is exploring AI integration by developing an AI-powered version of Aloy from Horizon Forbidden West, enabling dynamic player interactions. Additionally, report...

In this episode, we delve into recent developments in the gaming industry, starting with Rockstar Games' acquisition of Sydney-based Video Games Deluxe, now rebranded as Rockstar Australia. We also explore the upcoming release of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4, a remastered collection set to launch on July 11, 2025, featuring enhanced visuals, new skaters, and cross-platform multiplayer. Add...

In this episode, we delve into significant shifts within the gaming industry. Warner Bros. Games has announced the closure of three of its studios—Monolith Productions, Player First Games, and WB Games San Diego—and the cancellation of the highly anticipated Wonder Woman game. This strategic move aims to refocus efforts on key franchises such as Harry Potter, Mortal Kombat, DC (primarily Batman),...

In this week's episode, we delve into the unexpected layoffs at NetEase's Seattle studio, which developed the highly successful game Marvel Rivals. Despite the game's popularity, the company has laid off its U.S.-based design team to "optimize development efficiency," raising questions about job security in the gaming industry. We also explore the recent debunking of a 15-yea...

In this week's episode, we delve into the formation of the Robust Open Online Safety Tools (ROOST) initiative by industry leaders Google, OpenAI, Roblox, and Discord, aiming to enhance child safety online through open-source AI tools. We also explore Nintendo's recent patent filings, revealing potential mouse-like functionality for the upcoming Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers. Additionally, we disc...

In this episode, we delve into significant developments in the gaming industry. We discuss Hideaki Nishino's appointment as President and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, effective April 1, 2025, and its potential impact on PlayStation's future. We also explore the innovative features of the newly announced AYANEO 3, the world's first modular handheld gaming device, which offers...

In this episode, we delve into significant shifts in the gaming industry, starting with Hideaki Nishino's appointment as the sole CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, effective April 1, 2025. We also explore the unveiling of the AYANEO 3, a $900 modular handheld gaming PC that offers customizable controls and high-performance features. Additionally, we discuss Netflix's plans to introduc...

In this episode, we delve into President Trump's proposed 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, exploring their potential impact on video game prices and the future of physical game releases. We also discuss the latest updates on Nintendo's upcoming console, the Switch 2, including its anticipated features and release timeline. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive overview of the key...

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the latest in gaming and tech from CES 2025! We break down Nvidia's groundbreaking reveal of the RTX 50-series GPUs, including the powerhouse RTX 5090 and RTX 5080. With cutting-edge GDDR7 memory, PCIe Gen 5 support, and the innovative Blackwell architecture, these GPUs promise to double performance over the RTX 4090—but at a hefty power demand. We d...

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the biggest reveals and moments from The Game Awards 2024. From Naughty Dog's cosmic adventure Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet to the highly anticipated The Witcher 4, we break down the latest game announcements. Capcom delights fans with the return of Okami and Onimusha, while FromSoftware unveils a co-op Elden Ring spin-off. We discuss the big winne...

In this episode, we dive into PTW's new studio in Charleston, South Carolina, set to revolutionize QA testing, and analyze predictions of Ubisoft's potential privatization amidst its ongoing struggles. We explore Capcom's innovative game development competition using the RE Engine, discuss a study linking gaming to improved cognitive abilities in children, and highlight Utah's booming $2 billion v...

In this episode, we delve into the latest developments shaking up the gaming world. Intel steps up with its budget-friendly Arc B580 and B570 GPUs, challenging Nvidia and AMD on performance per dollar. Ubisoft pulls the plug on XDefiant, refunding players as the once-promising shooter faces an abrupt end. We explore Codecks' €1 million funding boost to expand its project management tool for game d...

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into the latest gaming news, starting with Balatro's impressive $4.4 million success on mobile without relying on microtransactions, highlighting the impact of premium pricing in today’s gaming economy. We also explore how Goose Byte, a studio born from an Embracer Group initiative, is navigating the turbulence of the corporate gaming world. Microsoft’s i...

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the evolving definition of Xbox as Microsoft reimagines its gaming ecosystem beyond consoles, explore Two Point Studios' return to in-office collaboration, and discuss Sony’s rumored buyout of FromSoftware parent Kadokawa. We also cover Valve’s potential Steam Controller 2, the latest update bringing cloud streaming to PlayStation Portal, and the Game Aw...

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the financial struggles of Warner Bros. Games, with CEO David Zaslav addressing a year of underperforming releases and major losses. We also explore how Riot Games' Vanguard anti-cheat system is making strides in the fight against PC gaming cheaters in Valorant. Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto shares his perspective on development costs, emphasizing creativi...

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we delve into AMD’s powerful new Ryzen 7 9800X3D, offering enhanced gaming performance and 3D V-Cache technology. Bungie provides a development update on their highly anticipated Marathon, though gameplay footage remains elusive. We also explore Sony’s decision to close Neon Koi and Firewalk Studios, and hear strong opinions from Arkane Studios' former president on M...

In this episode of M2 Podcast,  we dive into the latest gaming news and controversies. Netflix shuts down its California-based AAA game studio, just as key leaders depart. Activision announces a new AI-driven plan to tackle Call of Duty cheaters, aiming to remove offenders within an hour. Meanwhile, Ubisoft slashes the price of the Assassin's Creed Shadows Collector's Edition and cancels its early...