Shapes of Gaming

PlayStation has announced plans that could signal the end of physical game discs by 2028, and we’re breaking down what that means for players, collectors, and the future of the industry. We discuss the benefits and drawbacks of an all-digital future and why this is a bad direction for gaming as a whole. We also ask the big question: does the world even need a PlayStation 6, or can the PS5 generati...

Grand Theft Auto VI is finally up for preorder, but does it’s debut live up to the colossal hype? We discuss whether Rockstar’s approach to monetization and online design crosses the line into predatory territory, or if it’s simply the reality of modern AAA gaming nowadays. We also share our impressions of The Adventures of Elliot and why it has quickly become one of our favorite surprises of the...

This week we discuss the rumors surrounding Xbox potentially closing more studios and what that could mean for the future of the brand. We also debate whether console exclusives are becoming important again as Microsoft appears to be adjusting its strategy. Assassin’s Creed Black Flag has officially gone gold, bringing us one step closer to setting sail once again. Finally, we talk about Halo arri...

Summer Game Fest 2026 has come and gone, and we’re breaking down everything announced across gaming’s biggest week of reveals. From surprise world premieres and long-awaited sequels to release date confirmations and a few head-scratching moments, we cover the biggest announcements, our favorite reveals, and the games that left us wanting more. Which showcases delivered? Which games stole the show?...

The announcements have begun! We break down everything from PlayStation’s June 2nd State of Play, including the latest on Marvel’s Wolverine and the big surprises that had the gaming world talking. Ready for an update on our Fantasy Draft well it’s here too. We dive into the ongoing Destiny 3 vs. Marathon debate happening. Finally, with Summer Game Fest right around the corner, we put our reputati...

We’re cracking into First Light, wrapping up Hades II this week, and both games continue to impress for very different reasons. We talk about our experiences so far, what’s keeping us hooked, and why this new Bond game is one for the books. We also discuss the latest Dragon Quest XII: Beyond Dreams announcement and whether it lived up to the years of anticipation or fell flat on its droopy face. A...

Full spoilers ahead for Pragmata. In this bonus episode, we break down the story, gameplay, characters, twists, and everything that made this strange sci-fi adventure stand out. We talk about what worked, what surprised us, and where the game lands for us after rolling credits. If you haven’t finished it yet, come back when you’re ready.

PlayStation is back in the news with a newly announced State of Play, including a fresh look at Marvel’s Wolverine , while PS Plus prices are going up again for new members. We also talk through the recent PSN account security concerns and why players are understandably nervous about protecting their libraries, trophies, and purchases. Then we pour one out for Destiny 2 as Bungie prepares to end a...

It’s a surprisingly great week for gaming news. A Star Fox 64 remake is reportedly happening, Mina the Hollower finally has a confirmed release window, and Xbox is making some genuinely solid moves that have us feeling optimistic. From classic franchises returning to smart industry decisions, this episode is packed with good vibes and excitement for what’s ahead. Do a barrel roll! • Drinks and Lif...

It’s been one full year of Shapes of Gaming. In this special episode, we reflect on what the show means to us, how it all started, and the friendships we made along the way. We talk about the vision behind the podcast, why we’re so passionate about keeping the conversation going and the beauty of video games as an art form. Enjoy this special 50th episode on this very special day to us. With the w...

We dive into the latest Assassin’s Creed news and what it means for the franchise. Xbox is making moves behind the scenes with a new message to employees, hinting they’re far from out of the fight. On top of that, a Bloodborne animated rated R movie is reportedly in the works, and we talk about what that could look like. Another packed week of news, speculation, and big potential shifts in gaming....

April is stacked, and we’re in the calm before the storm. We talk about the massive wave of game releases hitting this month and what we’re most excited to dive into. We also get into the ongoing conversation around AI, what it actually is versus what people think it is, and why it matters. Plus, we cover the latest news including a new PS5 menu layout and what it means for the user experience. •...

PlayStation prices are on the rise, and we break down what that means for players and the future of the platform. At the same time, we’re deep into some massive JRPGs and talk about what’s been keeping us hooked for hours on end. From long grinds to immersive worlds, these games are hitting right now. As always… the conversation goes places you might not expect. • Shapes of What Now? • Bidets??? •...

PlayStation is making moves to clean up its ecosystem by cracking down on shovelware trophies, while the industry continues to take hits with more layoffs at Epic and the shutdown of Dark Outlaw Studios. We break down what these changes mean for players, developers, and the overall direction of gaming. On top of that, we react to Xbox’s latest partner showcase and whether it delivered or fell flat...

Full spoilers ahead. We’re diving deep into Resident Evil Requiem, the story, the twists, the gameplay, and everything that made this entry one of the best in the series. If you’ve finished the game, this is where we break it all down and reflect on one of the best games of the year so far. If you’ve beaten the game, you’re in the right place. If not… come back later. Thanks for Listening!

We’re deep in it right now. Massive JRPGs, long gaming sessions, and that never-ending grind yet somehow, the games just keep getting better. At the same time, both PlayStation and Nintendo are pushing updates that are making these worlds look and feel even sharper and the industry keeps losing more and more artists. • Drinks and Life • Latest News Announcements -PSSR 2.0 and Nintendo Switch Upgra...

In this episode we dive into the latest waves of industry news making headlines across gaming. Reports are circulating about a new rumored Xbox console known internally as Project Helix, and we discuss what it could mean for the future of Microsoft’s hardware strategy. We also go over the Pokémon event and talk about how the Winds of may be shifting for one of Nintendo’s biggest franchises. Anothe...

PlayStation may be changing course. Reports and discussions across the industry suggest Sony could be pulling back from bringing its first-party titles to PC. If true, it marks a major shift in strategy for one of the biggest platform holders in gaming. In this episode we talk about the possibility of Sony stepping away from PC releases and what that means for the future of the PlayStation ecosyst...

The industry rumor mill is spinning at full speed this week. Is this the biggest shift in modern gaming? This week’s episode is stacked with major industry shake-ups and horror hype. We dive into the reports and speculation surrounding Xbox potentially being sunsetted and what that would actually mean for players, publishers, and the future of the console space. Just when things couldn’t get loude...

This week has hit like a storm. From the passing of a true hardware legend to closures, layoffs, leaks, and uncomfortable industry realities, we’ve got a lot to talk about and yeah, it’s messy. In this episode, we break down the latest news that shook the industry, react to what it means for the future, and talk through how we’re processing it all as gamers. • Drinks and Life • Latest News Announc...

The bar has been set. PlayStation is back with another State of Play and we’re here to break it all down. From surprise reveals to long awaited updates, this borderline showcase had plenty to talk about and even more to reveal. In this bonus episode, we react to the announcements, give our initial thoughts, on the show and discuss what it all means for the amazing year ahead that’s shaping up quit...

After years of waiting, Alex finally picked up a PS5 and joined the PlayStation next gen family and we’re breaking down the entire experience. From the unboxing and first impressions we talk standout games, what surprised him most, the technology, what features feel truly next-gen, and whether the hype lives up to reality. With special guest Alex Meese. • Drinks and Life • Latest News Announcement...

For those who come after, the expedition must go on. We go over the State of the Draft and the crazy pickups everyone grabbed the first month of the league. With points finally on the board the game has begun. We laugh, we drink and most importantly we talk games with good friends and discuss some interesting news. With special guest Caleb Shiff @AdmiralMerps • Drinks and Life • Latest News Announ...

When one falls, we continue. This week's episode, is hosted by none other than yours truly; LeonLionheart. Welcoming special guest and fellow team member Oracle Mike. As usual we dive into what is going on in the industry, what we are playing and the recent Xbox Developer Direct.  Life and what we are drinking Latest News and rumors What we have been playing Discussion on Highguard's launch a...

Another rough week for the gaming industry. Ubisoft is closing studios, canceling projects, and sending shockwaves through one of the biggest publishers in the world. In this episode, we break down what happened, why it’s happening, and what it means for developers, franchises, and the future of gaming. • Drinks and Life • Latest News Announcements -Ubisoft Closing Studios and Canceling Projects •...