M2 Podcast

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we explore Analogue's modernized N64 console, the Analogue 3D, designed to deliver a nostalgic experience in 4K resolution. We discuss Ubisoft France's staff strike over return-to-office policies, Bandai Namco's controversial use of "expulsion rooms," and the implications for the industry. We also dive into the latest addition to the Destiny universe, Destiny: Rising...

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we explore Nintendo's surprising new Alarmo device and its unique approach to waking you up without game-like distractions. We also delve into Ubisoft's legal troubles over alleged data sharing with Meta, and the story behind a former Bethesda developer's departure to pursue his solo project, "The Axis Unseen." Plus, we discuss the shift of Halo's development to...

In this episode, we dive into the latest gaming industry headlines, starting with Fntastic's surprising return after the controversial failure of *The Day Before* and their launch of ‘Fntastic 2.0’. We also cover Nintendo’s legal crackdown on Switch emulators, resulting in the shutdown of Ryujinx, and Hi-Rez Studios’ recent layoffs in a bid to refocus on SMITE 2’s future. Plus, we explore Nintendo...

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we cover Don't Nod's rough financial start to 2024 and their decision to pause two major projects. We also dive into Ubisoft's sudden cancellation of their Tokyo Game Show appearance, Sony's massive $400 million investment in the failed game Concord, and the real reason behind Blizzard co-founder Mike Morhaime's exit, stemming from conflicts with...

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into Nintendo and Pokémon's lawsuit against the creators of Palworld for alleged patent infringement. We also explore the financial struggles of Disguised Toast's esports team, despite its passionate following, and Saber Interactive’s moves to pay down debt through fresh investments. Ubisoft announces a hybrid office policy, and we discuss the fut...

In this episode, we dive into major industry shifts, starting with Ubisoft's decision to add offline modes to *The Crew* games following a massive EU consumer rights campaign. We also discuss Microsoft's latest wave of layoffs, affecting 650 gaming staff, and what Xbox chief Phil Spencer's memo reveals about the future of Xbox post-Activision Blizzard acquisition. Additionally, we cove...

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we delve into the latest shake-ups and decisions impacting the gaming industry. We discuss Hopoo Games' surprising closure and its founders’ move to Valve, marking the end of an era for the creators of Risk of Rain. We also explore 1047 Games’ bold decision to abandon Splitgate and launch a scalable sequel, Splitgate 2, built on lessons learned from their ini...

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the evolving landscape of the gaming industry, starting with GameStop's surprising pivot to retro gaming at select locations. We also explore the controversial cancellation of Crash Bandicoot 5 by Activision, shedding light on the increasing focus on online live service games. The episode takes a critical look at the toxic trend of celebrating game f...

In our latest episode, we dive into Atari's nostalgic 7800 console remake, which not only brings back retro gaming but also lets you dust off those old Atari 2600 cartridges. We then shift to the recent layoffs at Ubisoft's U.S. offices and what it means for the industry. Next, we discuss the new Game Pass Standard tier and why it might take up to a year for some big titles to hit the serv...

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into Valve’s surprise new hero shooter "Deadlock," which has already attracted thousands of players despite no official announcement from the company. We also discuss rumors surrounding the launch of the Switch 2, expected no earlier than April 2025, and the exciting revelation that Geralt of Rivia will return in "The Witcher 4"—but not as...

In our latest podcast episode, we explore the dynamic shifts in the gaming industry. We discuss the formation of Outer Haven Games by former Unity and Scopely developers, and the surprising move by Bungie to continue hiring after laying off 220 employees. We also touch on the abrupt end of Game Informer magazine, Warner Bros' potential exit from the gaming business, and the groundbreaking anno...

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into the current challenges and shifts within the gaming industry. We discuss EA CEO Andrew Wilson's confidence that the ongoing video game actor strikes won't impact EA's short-term projects. Meanwhile, Bungie announces significant layoffs, affecting 17% of its workforce, as it refocuses on key projects like Destiny and Marathon. We also explore...

In the latest episode of the M2 Podcast, we delve into Microsoft's controversial Xbox Game Pass changes, exploring the FTC's strong response to the new "degraded" Standard tier and price hikes. We also discuss 8BitDo's unique metal-infused SN30 Pro gamepad, Blue Scarab Entertainment's ambitious MMORPG project, and the wave of unionization sweeping Blizzard and Bethesda ga...

In the latest episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into a range of intriguing gaming industry updates. We discuss Volley's successful $55m Series C fundraising round and its rise as a leader in AI-powered games for smart TVs and Alexa devices. Next, we explore the formation of Pithead Studio by former Piranha Bytes developers Björn and Jennifer Pankratz, and the new joint venture Palworld Entert...

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into some of the most intriguing recent developments in the gaming world. We start with the news of an officially licensed Steam controller by Hori, set to launch in Japan, bringing new features but missing some iconic elements from its predecessor. Next, we discuss Evo 2024's record-breaking status as the largest esports competition ever, with over 1...

In this episode, we delve into the latest industry news and developments. We start by discussing how EA executives earned a staggering $60 million in 2024, even as the company underwent significant layoffs and office closures. Next, we cover Larry Hryb, known as "Major Nelson," who has joined Unity as the Director of Community after leaving Microsoft. We also explore Phil Spencer's i...

In our latest podcast episode, we break down the biggest highlights from Summer Game Fest 2024, covering an incredible array of game reveals and exciting trailers. We discuss the much-anticipated Lego Horizon Adventures, the upcoming Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions, and the brutal zombie shooter No More Room in Hell 2. Additionally, we delve into the new gameplay footage for Star Wars Outlaws an...

In our latest episode, we dive into Take-Two's potential closure or sale of its indie label Private Division, exploring what this means for the indie game scene. We also highlight Juicy Button's impressive $3 million seed funding to develop a new 4X strategy game, backed by industry veterans. Additionally, we discuss The Believer Company's release of its open-source tool, Friendshipper...

In the latest episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into the impressive launch of Ubisoft's XDefiant, which has amassed nearly 8 million unique players in its first week, shattering expectations. We also discuss the ongoing saga of Star Citizen, which has now raised over $700 million without a release date in sight. YouTube's new Playables feature, offering a range of casual games across mobi...

In our latest episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into the tech-packed OneXPlayer X1 Mini, a handheld gaming PC featuring detachable controllers, swappable SSDs, and more. We also discuss Nintendo's surprising acquisition of Shiver Entertainment, the studio behind the Switch ports of Mortal Kombat 1 and Hogwarts Legacy. Additionally, we cover IGN's purchase of several major gaming sites, th...

In our latest episode of "Bits, Bytes, and Banter," we dive deep into the current turbulence in the gaming industry. First, we discuss Epic Games facing yet another fine, this time $1.2 million from the Dutch Authority for Consumers & Markets, for exploiting children with Fortnite's microtransactions. We then shift to Ubisoft's major announcements and cancellations, including...

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the recent shake-ups in the gaming industry, including Remedy Entertainment's cancellation of 'Project Kestrel' to focus on other projects, the fallout from a Helldivers 2 community manager's dismissal after encouraging negative reviews over a now-canceled PSN mandate, Microsoft's devastating cuts at Bethesda, and the turmoil within...

In our latest episode, we dive into the exciting lineup for the upcoming Xbox games showcase on June 9th, featuring an exclusive sneak peek into the next installment of Call of Duty. Additionally, we discuss FaZe Clan's shocking purge of 17 members, helmed by co-founder Richard "Banks" Bengston, signaling a major shift in the influential gaming organization. Plus, we explore the hila...

In our latest episode, we dive into the gaming world's latest headlines. From the release of the Delta emulator on the Apple App Store, offering console emulation from NES to N64, to Take-Two's courtroom victory over a tattoo artist in the NBA 2K series, we cover it all. Additionally, we discuss CI Games' surprising $60 million year, Fallout 76's resurgence thanks to the success of...

In the latest episode, we delve into the tumultuous landscape of the gaming industry. We discuss Take-Two's surprising layoffs and project cancellations, Ubisoft's controversial revocation of licenses for The Crew, and the heart-wrenching story of an Alan Wake fan who purchased thousands of unusable copies. Additionally, we cover the alarming theft of Ready or Not's source code and con...