A Video Game Time Capsule: The Complete History of Video Games, presented by MRIXRT @reallycool

2021-2023: An era marked by significant upheavals and unexpected twists in the gaming world. The industry, in 2021, contended with the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic, facing challenges from software delays to a global semiconductor shortage, leading to game postponements and cancellations. Amid this turmoil, the retro gaming sector flourished, with vintage games reaching record auction prices, though concerns of market manipulation cast shadows. 2022 pivoted to consolidation, headlined by Microsoft's colossal acquisition of Activision. While giants pursued acquisitions, the demise of E3 marked the end of an expo era, and EA's return to single-player games, highlighted by successes like Dead Space and Skate, offered a silver lining. 2023 began with the gaming community at an inflection point, with Google Stadia's shutdown and the closure of the Nintendo eShop triggering debates on the trajectory of cloud gaming and digital platforms. As consolidation remains a dominant trend, the industry anticipates emerging innovations and challenges that will shape its destiny. We extend our gratitude to our viewers for accompanying us on this exhilarating exploration of the ever-transforming gaming universe, with your unwavering support propelling our passion. Featured Games: Resident Evil: Village, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Deathloop, Halo Infinite, Elden Ring, Stray, & Hitman Trilogy. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ [https://patreon.com/reallycool] * (00:00) - Episode 15 * (00:06) - 2021 * (24:06) - 2022 * (40:51) - 2023 Thanks to our monthly supporters * Akaash Hussain * Nace27 * Tabreez Siddique * Mynx * Mopman43 * Ritsu * William Kage * Studio Devil * Dallay_g * Maxy89c * Razu * John H * The Golden Bolt * MykonosFan * ErbBetaPatched * Vornak * Killer Space * Serra * Autocharth * History With Kayleigh * Benjamin Steele * Nick Makris * minimme

2019-2020: A period of rapid evolution and unexpected challenges. In 2019, with Google's ambitious launch of Stadia and the next-gen console announcements from Sony and Microsoft, the gaming landscape seemed primed for monumental shifts. Yet, the loot box controversy continued to cast a shadow, prompting legal scrutiny worldwide. Ray tracing, Auto Battlers, and the ever-growing dominance of mobile gaming painted a picture of a vibrant, evolving industry. But it was also a time of change on the personnel front: the retirement of giants like Reggie Fils-Aime and Kaz Hirai marked the end of an era, while Bungie's tumultuous split from Activision underscored the complex dynamics between developers and publishers. Transitioning to 2020, the gaming world, like the rest of the planet, grappled with the challenges of a global pandemic. Yet, in adversity, the industry found growth, with streamers and gaming platforms seeing unprecedented engagement. Noteworthy events like Microsoft's acquisition of ZeniMax and the expanding cloud gaming frontier signaled that the industry was far from static, even in the face of global challenges. Reflecting on these years, one can't help but ponder: In a rapidly transforming world, both within and outside gaming, what lies on the horizon for this dynamic industry? Featured Games: Shenmue 3, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, The Outer Worlds, Apex Legends, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Hades, Among Us, Doom Eternal, & Yakuza: Like A Dragon. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ [https://patreon.com/reallycool] * (00:00) - Episode 14 * (00:06) - 2019 * (20:58) - 2020 Thanks to our monthly supporters * Akaash Hussain * Nace27 * Tabreez Siddique * Mynx * Mopman43 * Ritsu * William Kage * Studio Devil * Dallay_g * Maxy89c * Razu * John H * The Golden Bolt * MykonosFan * ErbBetaPatched * Vornak * Killer Space * Serra * Autocharth * History With Kayleigh * Benjamin Steele * Nick Makris * minimme

The years 2017-2018 presented a roller coaster of highs and lows for the gaming world. In 2017, Nintendo's Switch revitalized the company's image, while the loot box debacle, with Battlefront 2 at its heart, ignited fierce debates on game monetization. This controversial gaming mechanic not only drew ire from players but also caught the attention of global regulatory bodies. Acquisitions like IGN's purchase of Humble Bundle, and Funko Pop's unfortunate IPO, spotlighted the business machinations behind the scenes. Yet, amidst these industry tremors, retro revivals like Sonic Mania showcased the enduring power of nostalgia. The unexpected success story of Okami highlighted the game's journey from an initial commercial disappointment to a cult classic. Fast forward to 2018, the battle royale genre, spearheaded by PUBG and Fortnite, swept the globe. Epic Games' foray into the digital distribution domain with the Epic Games Store challenged existing giants, promising better deals for developers. Simultaneously, China's freeze on new game approvals sent ripples through the industry, emphasizing the country's growing influence in the gaming sector. However, amidst the gold rush, the darker side of the industry emerged, with studio closures amplifying calls for unionization. These tumultuous years posed critical questions about the future of game design, monetization, distribution, and the very structure of the industry itself. Featured Games: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Horizon: Zero Dawn, PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds, Cuphead, Yakuza 0, Destiny 2, God of War, Marvel's Spider-Man, Fortnite, Warframe, Red Dead Redemption, & No Man's Sky. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ [https://patreon.com/reallycool] Thanks to our monthly supporters * Akaash Hussain * Nace27 * Tabreez Siddique * Mynx * Mopman43 * Ritsu * William Kage * Studio Devil * Dallay_g * Maxy89c * Razu * John H * The Golden Bolt * MykonosFan * ErbBetaPatched * Vornak * Killer Space * Serra * Autocharth * History With Kayleigh * Benjamin Steele * Nick Makris * minimme

The years 2015-2016 marked a transformative period for the gaming industry, with pivotal advancements and cultural shifts. In 2015, PC gaming's resurgence and the rise of mobile gaming shifted industry norms, with titles like Pokémon Go showcasing the potential of augmented reality. Digital sales surged, and China's Tencent emerged as a dominant force. The controversial release of No Man's Sky spotlighted the importance of developer transparency, while VR's potential and AR's immediate success painted a diversified picture of immersive gaming's future. Mid-generation console refreshes and the increasing dominance of mobile gaming, generating a staggering $41 billion, signaled a redefinition of gaming platforms. Tencent's dominance persisted, and the budding esports scene witnessed Activision's significant investments. The gaming industry's cultural influence was evident as Japan's Prime Minister celebrated gaming at the Olympics, contrasting sharply with past regulatory stances. As VR and AR technologies matured, and mobile gaming continued to expand, the gaming landscape underwent rapid evolution, prompting questions about its future direction and the experiences it would offer. Featured Games: Majora's Mask, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Terraria, Bloodborne, Rocket League, Halo 5: Guardians, Overwatch, Uncharted 4: A Thief's End, Amplitude, Undertale, Stardew Valley, & Firewatch. * (00:00) - Episode 12 * (00:06) - 2015 * (24:52) - 2016 Thanks to our monthly supporters * Akaash Hussain * Nace27 * Tabreez Siddique * Mynx * Mopman43 * Ritsu * William Kage * Studio Devil * Dallay_g * Maxy89c * Razu * John H * The Golden Bolt * MykonosFan * ErbBetaPatched * Vornak * Killer Space * Serra * Autocharth * History With Kayleigh * Benjamin Steele * Nick Makris * minimme ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ [https://patreon.com/reallycool]

In 2013-2014, the gaming industry experienced seismic shifts, both in terms of market dynamics and cultural significance. Mobile gaming exploded, with titles like Candy Crush Saga raking in astounding revenue, forcing the industry to reimagine game design and monetization. The Chinese gaming market, led by giants like Tencent, surged, challenging established Western and Japanese powerhouses. Esports events, like The International 2013, elevated competitive gaming to unprecedented heights. Meanwhile, the unveiling of the 8th console generation spurred excitement and innovation. By 2014, the industry's valuation highlighted its massive global influence. Nintendo introduced the New 3DS and Amiibo, emphasizing their dedication to innovative experiences. Indie titles like Octodad and Jackbox Games' party packs introduced fresh gaming experiences. Tech behemoths Amazon and Facebook entered the fray, acquiring Twitch and Oculus respectively, signaling their commitment to gaming's future. Reflecting on these transformative years, key questions arise about the impact of emerging markets, tech giants' influence, and the evolving cultural conversations surrounding gaming. Featured Games: The Last Of Us, Grand Theft Auto V, Counter-Strike, Minecraft, Tomb Raider, Earthbound, Hearthstone, Dark Souls 2, Dragon Age: Inquisition, Xenoblade Chronicles, Alien: Isolation, Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, Shovel Knight, Halo: The Master Chief Collection, Destiny ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ [https://patreon.com/reallycool] * (00:00) - Episode 10 * (00:06) - 2013 * (24:13) - 2014 Thanks to our monthly supporters * Akaash Hussain * Nace27 * Tabreez Siddique * Mynx * Mopman43 * Ritsu * William Kage * Studio Devil * Dallay_g * Maxy89c * Razu * John H * The Golden Bolt * MykonosFan * ErbBetaPatched * Vornak * Killer Space * Serra * Autocharth * History With Kayleigh * Benjamin Steele * Nick Makris * minimme