Game Buoy

Ahoy, mateys, and welcome to the GAMEBUOY.ORG video game podcast – your port of call for gaming news and views that maybe aren’t on your radar, but most definitely should be! On this episode, recorded Sunday, June 22, 2025, Captain Spike and First Mate Slaggy McWaggy discuss the current state of LGBTQIA+ representation and inclusion in gaming! This episode is part of the Game Buoy Remake Project, a series of themed episodes revisiting previously discussed topics. This week, the Podcast Pirates follow up on Game Buoy Podcast Episode 7 – LGBT Issues in Gaming [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-7/], originally published July 24, 2012. HOT TOPIC IS THE WAY THAT WE RHYME – 79% of Switch 2 buyers in the United States also bought Mario Kart World. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250617072651/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/79-of-switch-2-buyers-in-the-us-also-bought-mario-kart-world/1100-6532449/] – Polygon reported that third party Switch 2 games aren’t selling well. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250622231251/https://www.polygon.com/608015/nintendo-switch-2-third-party-game-sales] – Conversely, games analyst Mat Piscatella observed that third party game sales for Switch 2 are stronger than they were during the Switch 1 launch. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250620123434/https://bsky.app/profile/matpiscatella.bsky.social/post/3lrxzjgdngs2t] – The Switch 2 sold almost 1 million units during its launch week in Japan. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250614032559/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/switch-2-sells-almost-1m-units-in-japan-making-it-countrys-biggest-console-launch] – The Switch 2 sold over 1.1 million units during its launch week in the US. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250616165448/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/switch-2-breaks-us-launch-week-records-selling-over-11m-units] – Hardware sales of the Switch 2 during its launch are double that of the Switch 1, and it is now the fastest-selling console of all time. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250620142858/https://www.ign.com/articles/nintendo-switch-2-outselling-the-og-switch-2-to-1-across-the-globe] – The original Silent Hill is getting a remake from Bloober Team. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250613214344/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/silent-hill-remake-by-bloober-team-announced] – SAG-AFRTA has called off industrial action after almost a year of strikes. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250612045611/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/sag-aftra-formally-calls-off-industrial-action-after-almost-a-year-of-strikes] – The standard edition of Borderlands 4 will cost $70. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250620003914/https://www.gameinformer.com/2025/06/16/borderlands-4-standard-edition-confirmed-to-cost-70] RELEASE UPDATES – Harvest Moon: Home Sweet Home Special Edition is coming to PS5, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC via Steam in 2025. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250619031801/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/harvest-moon-home-sweet-home-special-edition-announced-for-ps5-xbox-series-switch-and-pc] – The “Eevee Grove” expansion is coming to Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket on June 26. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250618145123/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/pokemon-trading-card-game-pocket-eevee-grove-expansion-launches-june-26] – PATAPON 1+2 REPLAY is out for PS5, Switch, and PC via Steam on July 11 worldwide. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250618150236/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/patapon-12-replay-overview-trailer] – The House of the Dead 2: Remake launches August 7 for Switch and PC and later for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox series. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250618155020/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/the-house-of-the-dead-2-remake-launches-august-7-for-switch-and-pc-later-for-ps5-xbox-series-ps4-and-xbox-one] – Doronko Wanko comes to Switch on July 24 with five additional playable dogs. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250619165116/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-18/doronko-wanko-game-heads-to-switch-with-new-playable-dogs-on-july-24/.225718] – Golden Tee Arcade Classics comes to PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC via Steam and GOG on July 17. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250618023450/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/golden-tee-arcade-classics-announced-for-ps5-xbox-series-ps4-xbox-one-switch-and-pc] – Monster Hunter Wilds‘ Title Update 2 comes out on June 30. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250623015400/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/monster-hunter-wilds-title-update-2-launches-june-30] – Honkai: Star Rail‘s version 3.4 update. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250620145001/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/honkai-star-rail-version-3-4-update-for-the-sun-is-set-to-die-launches-july-2] – Persona 4 Revival and STRANGER THAN HEAVEN will be out in Fiscal Year 2027. [https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/persona-4-revival-and-stranger-than-heaven-due-out-after-april-1-2026] – Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter launches worldwide on September 19 for Switch, PS5, and PC via Steam. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250616151504/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-16/trails-in-the-sky-1st-chapter-remake-game-previews-estelle-joshua-voice-lines/.225614] – The Pokémon franchise is launching a new internet game show, The Gotta Catch ‘Em All! Game Show. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250619053147/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-17/pokemon-franchise-launches-internet-game-show/.225720] CULTURE CLUB – Sandfall Interactive is exploring “a wide range of future improvements” for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, including more content. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250617035620/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/clair-obscur-expedition-33-dev-exploring-more-localization-options-new-content/1100-6532452/] – Elden Ring Nightrein has added new, more difficult bosses in its latest update. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250620102644/https://www.polygon.com/news/607966/elden-ring-nightreign-update-everdark-sovereign] – The live action film Return to Silent Hill will open on January 23, 2026. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250620000204/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-18/return-to-silent-hill-live-action-film-opens-on-january-23-2026/.225752] – Bungie has delayed Marathon, with no release window currently set. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250618120802/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/bungie-delays-marathon-telling-players-we-know-we-need-more-time] – SEGA has announced that SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, and Avatar Legends DLC will be coming to Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds. [https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/sonic-racing-crossworlds-spongebob-squarepants-teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-mutant-mayhem-and-avatar-legends-dlc-announced] – Spike Chunsoft is releasing a short animated series to tie into No Sleep For Kaname Date – From AI: The Somnium Files. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250619020653/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-17/no-sleep-for-kaname-date-from-ai-the-somnium-files-game-launches-mini-animation-series/.225712] – Nintendo is pushing back the release date of the Legend of Zelda movie to May 7, 2027. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250610195105/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/nintendo-delays-live-action-legend-of-zelda-film-news-in-brief] – CD Projekt RED is developing The Witcher 4 with a “console-first” mindset. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250617183642/https://www.polygon.com/the-witcher/607130/the-witcher-4-console-first-mindset-developed-cdpr] – Adi Shankar has acquired the screen rights for Duke Nukem. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250621060936/https://www.ign.com/articles/duke-nukem-rights-acquired-by-devil-may-cry-and-castlevania-showrunner-adi-shankar] – The upcoming Patch 7.3 for Final Fantasy XIV will add more headgear options for Hrothgar and Viera. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250623002224/https://www.polygon.com/news/608333/final-fantasy-14-hrothgar-viera-headgear] – The Ghost of Yotei developers are making efforts to respectfully portray the indigenous Ainu people of Japan. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250620100946/https://www.ign.com/articles/ghost-of-yotei-director-reveals-efforts-to-respectfully-portray-the-ainu-indigenous-people-of-japan] – Hideo Kojima changed some of the script of Death Stranding 2 because it was getting too positive of a response during play testing. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250619034545/https://www.gamesradar.com/games/action/hideo-kojima-changed-stuff-in-death-stranding-2s-script-because-playtesters-enjoyed-themselves-too-much-if-everyone-likes-it-it-means-its-mainstream/] MY OWN PRIVATE IDAHO – Tales of cards will be coming to Weiss Schwarz and Weiss Schwarz Blau. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250620021749/https://www.siliconera.com/weiss-schwarz-tales-of-card-game-decks-revealed/] – Shallot has been revealed as a DLC character for Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250617183459/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-17/dragon-ball-sparking-zero-game-trailer-reveals-shallot-as-dlc-character/.225703] – A billboard in the London Underground erroneously stated that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond was “out now.” [https://web.archive.org/web/20250620164257/https://www.ign.com/articles/confused-nintendo-fans-spot-giant-metroid-prime-4-beyond-advert-stating-that-the-game-is-out-now-sparking-hopes-of-an-imminent-release] – An Alien Ant Farm song is being cut from Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250620105339/https://kotaku.com/alien-ant-farm-song-cut-thps-3-4-soundtrack-tony-hawk-1851784785] SO CONTROVERSIAL – Splitgate 2 developers 1047 Games have had to lay off an unspecified number of staff, but the co-founders are taking no salary while the company restructures. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250623024739/https://www.ign.com/articles/splitgate-2-dev-1047-games-hit-by-layoffs-amid-turbulent-launch-co-founders-say-they-wont-take-salaries-as-we-lock-in-to-deliver-the-next-phase-of-the-project] – Support for Beat Saber is ending on PS4 and PS5. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250619141258/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/beat-saber-support-is-ending-on-ps4-and-ps5] – NIS America has announced that Disgaea 7 Complete Ewwdo Edition is only coming to Switch 2 and will be on a Game Key Card. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250612230906/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-12/nis-america-announces-disgaea-7-complete-game-for-switch-2/.225504] – Nintendo has reportedly banned players using MIG cartridges to play pirated games on the Switch 2. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250617155254/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/nintendo-reportedly-bans-players-using-mig-cartridges-for-pirated-games-on-switch-2] DOOM AND GLOOM – Sony has laid off roughly a third of Bend Studio’s staff. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250613023619/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/sony-confirms-layoffs-at-bend-studio] – The Smartphone game Black Clover M: Rise of the Wizard King will end service on August 21. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250620160405/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-20/black-clover-m-rise-of-the-wizard-king-smartphone-game-ends-service-on-august-21/.225835] SMASH HIT – Nathan Grayson’s article “The Summer (Game Fest) Before The Fall (Of America)” discusses the Summer Game Fest in the context of occurring during the protests and ICE presence in L.A. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250621062228/https://aftermath.site/summer-game-fest-los-angeles-protests-ice-immigration-police] DISCUSSION TOPIC This week, Captain Spike and First Mate Slaggy McWaggy discuss the current state of LGBTQIA+ representation and inclusion in gaming! As part of the Game Buoy Remake Project initiative, they take a look back at Game Buoy Podcast Episode 7 – LGBT Issues in Gaming [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-7/]. Back in 2012, the Podcast Pirates discussed prominent LGBT characters in gaming, notable LGBT plots and subplots, and lesbianism being used in an exploitative way – along with highlighting Cho Aniki! After looking back at the past episode, the Podcast Pirates examine how LGBTQIA+ representation and inclusion has changed over the years. They discuss LGBTQIA+ characters and themes in games that have stood out to them in recent years, games they would recommend to give historical and modern perspectives on LGBTQIA+ issues in gaming, along with their hopes for how inclusion and representation can improve in the games industry in the future. Resources discussed: – 2024 GLAAD Gaming Report: The State of LGBTQ Inclusion in Video Games [https://web.archive.org/web/20250616123434/https://glaad.org/glaad-gaming/2024/] (GLAAD) – “It’s Time to Bury the Bury Your Gays Trope in Video Games” [https://web.archive.org/web/20250430002848/https://gaymingmag.com/2021/05/its-time-to-bury-the-bury-your-gays-trope-in-video-games/] by James Troughton (Gayming Magazine) – “Queer Lives Are Not Quests” [https://web.archive.org/web/20250414230130/https://www.publicbooks.org/queer-representation-videogames/] by Cody Mejeur and Xavier Ho (Public Books) WHAT’S UP Captain Spike has been playing Bravley Defaut HD and the Blitz Royale in Fortnite. First Mate Slaggy McWaggy has been playing Mario Kart World, Cyberpunk 2077, and Pokémon Scarlet. SOCIAL LINKS QUESTION OF THE WEEK Hello, folks! This week for Pride we are talking about how LGBT issues and representation have changed in gaming in the last ~15 years. Regardless of your identity, have you observed any industry change from your perspective? How do you feel about these changes? Bonus question: Are there any games that feature LGBT characters OR which you feel explore LGBT related issues that you’d like to recommend? (Please only respond if you’re comfortable with us reading your responses on air, thanks! ) EXITLUDE SHOUT OUTS – “FRIENDS OF BUOY” – Orange Lounge Radio [http://www.orangeloungeradio.com], where every gamer has a voice – Aftermath [https://aftermath.site], an independent, worker-owned website about video games, other media and internet culture – The Bobby Blackwolf Show [http://www.bobbyblackwolf.com], a weekly internet radio show and podcast discussing the latest news in gaming as well as sometimes reminiscing about gaming’s history – Video Game Realness [https://videogamerealness.com], a dose of gaming chit chat among friends – Nintendo Pow Block [https://bossrush.net/category/all/podcasts/npb/], a dive into the week that was in the world of Nintendo – Famicomputing [https://bsky.app/profile/famicomputing.blog], for “Nintendo and PC stuff” including screenshots, videos, photos, and reviews – Sasha’s Retrobytes [https://bsky.app/profile/sharkabytes.bsky.social], “bytes” of vintage gaming including magazine scans and photographs – Defunct Games [http://www.defunctgames.com], your daily source for modern video game reviews, exciting trivia competitions and old school magazine analysis – Thomas Game Docs [https://www.youtube.com/c/ThomasGameDocs], where each video covers “a different aspect of video game history” – Craig [https://craig.chat], Slaggy McWaggy’s robot boyfriend a multi-track voice channel recording bot for Discord Also, our theme music was done by the late, great Zelda Reorchestrated [http://zreo.perix.co.uk], which lives on in the form of ZREO: Second Quest [https://zreosq.com]! The post Game Buoy Podcast Episode 177 – More of That Gay Stuff: Game Buoy Remake Project Episode 4 [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-177/] appeared first on GAME BUOY [http://gamebuoy.org].

Ahoy, mateys, and welcome to the GAMEBUOY.ORG video game podcast – your port of call for gaming news and views that maybe aren’t on your radar, but most definitely should be! On this episode, recorded Sunday, June 8, 2025, Captain Spike and First Mate Slaggy McWaggy discuss the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2! This episode is part of the Game Buoy Remake Project, a series of themed episodes revisiting previously discussed topics. This week, the Podcast Pirates follow up on Game Buoy Podcast Episode 133 – Glamorous Nindie Rock & Roll [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-133/], originally published March 7, 2017. HOT TOPIC IS THE WAY THAT WE RHYME [2:44] – Arc System Works and Sony Interactive Entertainment have announced MARVEL Tokon: Fighting Souls, a tag-team fighting game for PS5 and PC. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250606052701/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/sony-interactive-entertainment-and-arc-system-works-announce-marvel-tokon-fighting-souls-for-ps5-pc] – Nioh 3 has been announced for PS5 and PC. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250604225109/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/nioh-3-announced-for-ps5-pc] – Resident Evil Requiem has been announced for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607140125/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/resident-evil-requiem-announced-for-ps5-xbox-series-and-pc] – Sagat, C. Viper, Alex, and Ingrid have been announced as the Year 3 DLC characters for Street Fighter 6 [https://web.archive.org/web/20250606233324/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/street-fighter-6-dlc-characters-sagat-c-viper-alex-and-ingrid-announced]. – Tencent has acquired a 15% stake in Arrowhead Games. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607063851/https://www.eurogamer.net/ubisoft-roblox-riot-and-now-helldivers-tencent-just-acquired-a-15-stake-in-arrowhead-games] – Scott Pilgrim EX has been announced for PS4, PS5, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250606232839/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/scott-pilgrim-ex-announced-for-ps5-xbox-series-ps4-switch-and-pc] – Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection has been announced for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Switch, Switch 2, and PC. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250606035653/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/mortal-kombat-legacy-kollection-announced-for-ps5-xbox-series-switch-2-ps4-xbox-one-switch-and-pc] – Lego Party! has been announced for Xbox One, Xbox Series, PS4, PS5, and PC for a late 2025 release. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250606224458/https://www.ign.com/articles/mario-party-style-game-lego-party-announced-and-its-exactly-what-it-sounds-like] – Lego Voyagers, a 2-play co-op adventure with a Split Fiction style friend pass, has been announced for release on Switch, PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607141659/https://www.ign.com/articles/lego-voyagers-is-a-new-2-player-co-op-adventure-with-a-split-fiction-style-friends-pass] – Bandai Namco announced that the next entry in the Tales of remaster series will be announced later this summer. [https://archive.ph/0LWSy] – Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles, a remaster of the original game, is coming to PS4, PS5, Switch, Switch 2, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam on September 30 [https://web.archive.org/web/20250605005859/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-04/final-fantasy-tactics-game-gets-remaster-on-september-30/.225135] RELEASE UPDATES [24:34] – Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will also be launching for Switch 2 on its September 25 release date. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607065507/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/sonic-racing-crossworlds-adds-switch-2-version-launches-september-25] – Mina the Hollower launches October 31 for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC via Steam. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607115751/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/mina-the-hollower-launches-october-31] – ARC Raiders launches on October 30 for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607184052/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/arc-raiders-launches-october-30] – Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 will launch on Switch 2 on July 11 alongside its release on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC via Steam, Microsoft Store, and Battle.net. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607185356/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/tony-hawks-pro-skater-3-4-for-switch-2-launches-july-11] – Sword of the Sea launches on August 19 for PS5 and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store, and it will be available on the PlayStation Plus catalog on day one. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607071152/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/sword-of-the-sea-launches-august-19] – Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound releases on July 31 for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC via Steam. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250605065921/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-04/ninja-gaiden-ragebound-game-new-trailer-reveals-july-31-launch/.225139] – Digimon Story Time Stranger releases on October 3 for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250605065921/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-04/digimon-story-time-stranger-game-unveils-october-3-launch-in-trailer/.225140] – Pokémon Legends Z-A releases on October 16. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250601093301/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-05-28/pokemon-legends-z-a-game-launches-on-october-16/.224889] CULTURE CLUB [27:49] – Frontier Developments has announced Jurassic World Evolution 3 for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and Microsoft Store – but it will feature generative AI for its scientist portraits. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607184052/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/jurassic-world-evolution-3-announced-for-ps5-xbox-series-and-pc] – The Mario Kart World fanbase’s love of Cow has continued with the release of the game. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250606172421/https://www.eurogamer.net/cows-are-taking-over-mario-kart-world] – Mario Kart World‘s Smart Steering is on by default but is easy to turn off. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250606164732/https://www.eurogamer.net/psa-mario-kart-world-defaults-to-smart-steering-but-its-easily-turned-off] – SEGA and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio’s “Project Century” has been officially revealed as STRANGER THAN HEAVEN. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607144105/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/sega-and-ryu-ga-gotoku-studios-project-century-officially-titled-stranger-than-heaven] – Code Vein II has been announced for a 2026 release on PS5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam. [https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/code-vein-ii-announced-for-ps5-xbox-series-and-pc] – Marvelous USA’s CEO, Ken Berry, has stated the company’s commitment to release as many physical Switch 2 games as possible. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250528005852/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/05/story-of-seasons-publisher-says-physical-switch-2-releases-are-the-right-decision-for-us] – Elden Ring Nightrein hit 3.5 million copies sold in just 5 days. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250605022936/https://www.pcgamer.com/games/rpg/elden-ring-nightreign-hits-3-5-million-copies-sold-in-just-5-days-with-7-5-percent-of-players-already-managing-to-beat-all-the-nightlords/] – Nintendo was true to its word when it said any USB-C camera will work with the Switch 2 – and people have found creative solutions (including Game Boy Camera). [https://archive.ph/U5Ft0] – Despite Too Kyo Games being “on the brink” of collapse, Kazutaka Kodaka wants to keep expanding The Hundred Line – Last Defense Academy. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250605062225/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/06/the-hundred-line-director-has-insanely-ambitious-ideas-for-the-game] – A Death Stranding anime is in the works. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250601000742/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-05-28/hideo-kojima-death-stranding-animation-is-in-the-works/.224890] – An Elden Ring film is in the works. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250601000435/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-05-29/deadline-kit-connor-is-in-talks-to-star-in-elden-ring-film/.224932] – Doug Jung has joined Amazon’s Mass Effect adaptation as showrunner. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607195408/https://deadline.com/2025/06/mass-effect-doug-jung-tv-series-showrunner-1236423704/] – GameChat on Switch 2 allows for live captions and text-to-speech, and this includes swear words! [https://web.archive.org/web/20250606164902/https://www.eurogamer.net/the-nintendo-switch-2-game-chat-feature-will-transcribe-naughty-words] MY OWN PRIVATE IDAHO [47:33] – Ratatan, a spiritual successor to Patapon, launches on Steam in early access on July 25. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607140353/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-06/ratatan-game-from-patapon-developers-launches-in-early-access-on-july-25/.225259] – Bloodstained: The Scarlet Engagement has been announced for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250605141528/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-04/bloodstained-the-scarlet-engagement-metroidvania-game-announced/.225141]– A Kickstarter is launching on June 10 for Joe & Mac Retro Collection, planned for a 2025 release for PS5, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC via Steam. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607215653/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/06/joe-mac-retro-collection-announced-for-ps5-xbox-series-switch-and-pc] – 8bitdo controllers will require a firmware update before working on Switch 2. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250606164931/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/06/psa-8bitdo-controllers-require-a-firmware-update-to-work-on-switch-2] – Grasshopper Manufacture has announced their latest title, Romeo is a Dead Man, coming to PS5. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250605074648/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-04/suda51-ren-yamazaki-announce-romeo-is-a-dead-man-game/.225134] – Giant Skull is working on a new single-player Dungeons & Dragons video game. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250603220057/https://variety.com/2025/digital/news/new-dungeons-and-dragons-video-game-giant-skull-1236415359/] SO CONTROVERSIAL [53:58] – Three former Ubisoft executives are on trial in France, accused of “creating a company culture…that allowed systemic sexual harassment and sexism to thrive.” [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607170243/https://aftermath.site/ubisoft-sexual-harassment-lawsuit-france] – Games that appear to rip off One Piece have been removed from the Japanese eShop. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250531012110/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2025-05-29/games-strikingly-similar-to-one-piece-pulled-from-my-nintendo-store-in-japan/.224903] – Samantha Kelly, who had been the voice of Peach and Toad since 2007, found out the roles had been recast on the release date of the Switch 2. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607143851/https://www.siliconera.com/samantha-kelly-doesnt-voice-peach-and-toad-in-mario-kart-world/] – An update to the Nintendo Today! app disabled the ability to record the screen or take screenshots. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250531223021/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/05/nintendo-today-update-prevents-users-from-recording-promotional-videos] DOOM AND GLOOM [1:04:51] – Zynga, who bought Torchlight 3 studio Echtra Games in 2021, has shut down the studio. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250604050202/https://www.eurogamer.net/zynga-shuts-down-torchlight-3-echtra-games] – EA’s canceled Black Panther game would have featured a system similar to Shadow of Mordor‘s nemesis system. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250603022410/https://www.eurogamer.net/eas-cancelled-black-panther-game-would-have-featured-an-evolved-take-on-shadow-of-mordors-nemesis-system] – After suffering many cuts in 2024, People Can Fly has had to scale down its teams after the cancellation of “Project Bifrost” and “Project Gemini.” [https://web.archive.org/web/20250602041630/https://www.eurogamer.net/people-can-fly-cancels-two-projects-and-confirms-it-will-once-again-have-to-scale-down-its-teams] – Yooka-Laylee developer Playtonic has been hit with layoffs. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607193532/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/05/yooka-laylee-dev-playtonic-is-the-latest-studio-hit-by-layoffs] DISCUSSION TOPIC [1:13:41] This week, Captain Spike and First Mate Slaggy McWaggy discuss the launch of the Switch 2! As part of the Game Buoy Remake Project initiative, they take a look back at Game Buoy Podcast Episode 133 – Glamorous Nindie Rock & Roll [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-133/]. Back in 2017, the Podcast Pirates discussed topics such as the pre-launch events for Nintendo Switch, attending a midnight launch, the hope of Nintendo adopting Switch as a platform moving forward, the console’s availability online vs. in stores, and their overall impressions with the hardware and software. They then discuss their experiences with the Switch 2 launch, hardware, and games and how they compare to its predecessor, along with their hopes for the future of the Switch 2. Resources discussed: – Nintendo Switch 2’s faster chip can dramatically improve original switch games [https://web.archive.org/web/20250607095609/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/06/nintendo-switch-2-can-make-your-old-switch-games-feel-brand-new-again/] (Ars Technica) – Mario Kart World – All Retro Tracks Comparison (Switch 2 vs. Original) [https://discord.com/channels/494282021724618772/494282021724618776/1381085811755319440] (YouTube) SOCIAL LINKS QUESTION OF THE WEEK [2:19:22] Hello folks, this week we’re celebrating the launch of the Switch 2! Did you pick up Nintendo’s latest console? If so, what are your thoughts? BONUS QUESTION Bonus question: Did you participate in a midnight launch for the Switch 2? If so, how was your experience? (Please only respond if you’re comfortable with us reading your responses on air, thanks!) EXITLUDE [2:20:51] SHOUT OUTS – “FRIENDS OF BUOY” – Orange Lounge Radio [http://www.orangeloungeradio.com], where every gamer has a voice – Aftermath [https://aftermath.site], an independent, worker-owned website about video games, other media and internet culture – The Bobby Blackwolf Show [http://www.bobbyblackwolf.com], a weekly internet radio show and podcast discussing the latest news in gaming as well as sometimes reminiscing about gaming’s history – Video Game Realness [https://videogamerealness.com], a dose of gaming chit chat among friends – Nintendo Pow Block [https://bossrush.net/category/all/podcasts/npb/], a dive into the week that was in the world of Nintendo – Sasha’s Retrobytes [https://bsky.app/profile/sharkabytes.bsky.social], “bytes” of vintage gaming including magazine scans and photographs – Defunct Games [http://www.defunctgames.com], your daily source for modern video game reviews, exciting trivia competitions and old school magazine analysis – Craig [https://craig.chat], Slaggy McWaggy’s robot boyfriend a multi-track voice channel recording bot for Discord Also, our theme music was done by the late, great Zelda Reorchestrated [http://zreo.perix.co.uk], which lives on in the form of ZREO: Second Quest [https://zreosq.com]! The post Game Buoy Podcast Episode 176 – Ninty, You’re a Star: Game Buoy Remake Project Episode 3 [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-176/] appeared first on GAME BUOY [http://gamebuoy.org].

Ahoy, mateys, and welcome to the GAMEBUOY.ORG video game podcast – your port of call for gaming news and views that maybe aren’t on your radar, but most definitely should be! On this episode, recorded Sunday, May 25, 2025, Captain Spike and First Mate Slaggy McWaggy discuss the current state of gaming journalism! This episode is part of the Game Buoy Remake Project, a series of themed episodes revisiting previously discussed topics. This week, the Podcast Pirates follow up on Game Buoy Podcast Episode 6 – Gaming Journalism and the Industry [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-6/], originally published July 1, 2012. HOT TOPIC IS THE WAY THAT WE RHYME [2:32] – Aftermath gave space for former Polygon employees to say goodbye to to the site and share their favorite memories [https://web.archive.org/web/20250516165456/https://aftermath.site/polygon-vox-media-valnet-layoffs-staff-goodbye]. – Kingdom Hearts Missing-Link has been canceled [https://web.archive.org/web/20250518121349/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/kingdom-hearts-missing-link-canceled]. – Square Enix has shared new screenshots from Kingdom Hearts IV [https://web.archive.org/web/20250516225304/https://www.polygon.com/gaming/599322/kingdom-hearts-4-new-screenshots-analysis]. – Sony is considering increasing the price of the PS5 to compensate for tariffs [https://web.archive.org/web/20250517032653/https://www.theverge.com/news/666584/sony-earnings-tariffs-ps5-price-us-manufacturing]. – Doug Bowser says that physical games are still key part of Nintendo’s business. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250516224344/https://www.gamesradar.com/games/despite-switch-2s-controversial-game-key-cards-nintendo-president-says-physical-games-are-still-a-key-part-of-our-business/] – FANTASY LIFE i: The Girl Who Steals Time sold 500,000 copies in its first two days! [https://web.archive.org/web/20250525135411/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/fantasy-life-i-the-girl-who-steals-time-sales-top-500000] – LEVEL-5 has announced a free DLC update coming for FANTASY LIFE i: The Girl Who Steals Time called ‘Update the World!’ [https://web.archive.org/web/20250525135506/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/fantasy-life-i-the-girl-who-steals-time-free-dlc-update-the-world-announced] – Danganronpa creator Kazutaka Kodaka has announced a new multi-genre adventure game, SHUTEN ORDER, due out September 5 for the Nintendo Switch eShop and PC via Steam [https://web.archive.org/web/20250526030816/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/shuten-order-launches-september-5]. RELEASE UPDATES [22:29] – Tales of the Shire: A Lord of the Rings Game is out on July 29, with a limited physical release on PS5 and Switch, and available digitally on both platforms as well as Xbox Series and PC. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250514034026/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/cozy-lord-of-the-rings-farming-sim-tales-of-the-shire-getting-physical-release-on-ps5-switch/1100-6531521/] – Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra has been delayed to early 2026. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250513191059/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/marvel-1943-rise-of-hydra-delayed-to-early-2026] – Killer Instinct Gold is now available on Nintendo 64 – Nintendo Switch Online. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250516065218/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/nintendo-64-nintendo-switch-online-adds-killer-instinct-gold] – Toaplan Arcade Collection Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 is out for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, and Switch on August 14 in the west, two weeks ahead of its Japanese release. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250516082628/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/toaplan-arcade-collection-vol-1-and-vol-2-coming-west-on-august-14] – Parasol Superstars comes out on September 16 for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, and Switch. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250515132849/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/parasol-superstars-announced-for-ps5-xbox-series-ps4-xbox-one-and-switch] – Persona 5: The Phantom X is launches on June 26 for iOS, Android, and PC via Steam. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250518184756/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-05-15/persona5-the-phantom-x-mobile-pc-game-launches-on-june-26/.224476] – Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II is coming to PS5 this summer. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250526162543/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/senuas-saga-hellblade-ii-coming-to-ps5-this-summer] https://web.archive.org/web/20250516065218/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/nintendo-64-nintendo-switch-online-adds-killer-instinct-gold CULTURE CLUB [25:19] – The title of the next Super Mario Bros. movie appears to be Super Mario World. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250514210803/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/05/super-mario-world-looks-to-be-the-official-name-of-the-next-mario-movie] – Blue Protocol: Star Resonance is launching for PC and mobile in English this year. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250519170030/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-05-15/mmorpg-blue-protocol-star-resonance-launches-in-english-on-pc-mobile-this-year/.224463] – Hideo Kojima has a USB drive with ideas for games for Kojima Productions to use after his death. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250516014523/https://www.thegamer.com/hideo-kojima-kojima-productions-life-after-death-interview/] – Jade Raymond has departed Haven Interactive Studios. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250516024510/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/haven-interactive-studios-founder-jade-raymond-departs] – A Monster Hunter Wilds x Street Fighter 6 collaboration is coming to Monster Hunter Wilds starting on May 28. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250526163417/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/monster-hunter-wilds-x-street-fighter-6-special-collaboration-announced] – The Leeroy Jenkins video is celebrating its 20th anniversary. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250514091310/https://www.polygon.com/culture/598971/wow-20-year-anniversary-leeroy-jenkins-world-of-warcraft] MY OWN PRIVATE IDAHO [32:32] – Final Fantasy XI was almost shifted into maintenance mode in 2024, but an outpouring of fan support changed Square Enix’s mind. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250520003110/https://www.siliconera.com/square-enix-almost-axed-final-fantasy-xi/] – A UNIQLO x Pokémon Trading Card Game line of shirts will arrive in August. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250526164010/https://www.siliconera.com/uniqlo-pokemon-trading-card-game-shirts-arrive-in-august/] – Ultra Beasts are coming to Pokémon TCG Pocket in the new Extradimensional Crisis expansion pack, coming on May 29. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250526164227/https://www.siliconera.com/pokemon-tcg-pocket-extradimensional-crisis-adds-ultra-beasts/] SO CONTROVERSIAL [42:54] – Players made a Darth Vader AI in Fortnite say terrible things, and SAG-AFTRA has filed an unfair labor practice charge. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250520014239/https://aftermath.site/fortnite-ai-darth-vader-star-wars-epic-games-sag-aftra] – Nintendo of America updated its EULA so that it can brick your console if it detects you are running a modded console or pirated software. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250524110817/https://www.gamesradar.com/games/nintendo-of-america-might-turn-your-switch-into-an-expensive-paperweight-if-you-mod-your-console-or-install-any-unauthorized-games-new-policy-warns/] – WizKids’ Baldur’s Gate 3 minis were so bad that the company had to offer refunds. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250520012122/https://www.polygon.com/news/599913/baldurs-gate-3-wizkids-minifigs-refund] – Bungie has admitted that stolen artwork was used in Marathon‘s alpha build. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250518123055/https://www.polygon.com/gaming/599536/bungie-marathon-stolen-artwork] – Geoguessr has pulled out of the Esports World Cup due to Saudi Arabia’s history of human rights violations. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250526165949/https://kotaku.com/geoguessr-saudi-esports-world-cup-riyadh-prize-1851781908] – Randy Pitchford responded to concerns that Borderlands 4 may cost $80 by saying that “real fans” will figure out a way to buy it. [https://web.archive.org/save/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/hey-randy-im-not-sure-if-saying-that-a-real-fan-will-figure-out-how-to-pay-80-for-borderlands-4-is-a-good-look] DOOM AND GLOOM [1:01:42] – The Lego Group has shut down the fan game Bionicle: Masks of Power after years of development. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250519185834/https://kotaku.com/lego-bionicle-fan-game-masks-of-power-canceled-shutdown-1851781321] – Tribe Nine will shut down in early 2026, after only eight months of operation. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250518042450/https://www.siliconera.com/tribe-nine-game-will-shut-down-after-8-months/] – Gun Media is ending development on Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Game less than two years after its release. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250514193426/https://www.gamesradar.com/games/horror/texas-chain-saw-massacre-the-game-is-done-getting-new-updates-less-than-2-years-after-launch/] RUMOR HAS IT [1:08:26] – Friday the 13th: The Game may be getting a revival. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250526170813/https://www.resetera.com/threads/friday-the-13th-the-game-possibly-being-revived.1193490/] – Marketing for Marathon has reportedly been canceled following the plagiarism controversy. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250525001258/https://www.thegamer.com/marathon-bungie-sony-playstation-marketing-canceled-live-service-game/] – An Arc System Works leak may have given insight into why so many third party Switch 2 titles will be coming out on Game Key Cards. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250515011126/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/05/rumour-new-leak-may-explain-why-so-many-switch-2-physicals-are-game-key-cards] – Rayman looks to be getting an AAA revival after last year’s announcement of an “exploration phase.” [https://web.archive.org/web/20250526171337/https://www.eurogamer.net/looks-like-ubisoft-is-giving-rayman-an-aaa-revival-after-last-years-exploration-phase] – Shuhei Yoshida said that sequels for fan favorite PS Vita games Soul Sacrifice and Freedom Wars were in development before resources were shifted to the development of the PS4. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250519203307/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/shuhei-yoshida-claims-2-fan-favourite-ps-vita-games-were-getting-sequels-before-the-transition-to-ps4/] DISCUSSION TOPIC [1:18:01] This week, Captain Spike and First Mate Slaggy McWaggy discuss the current state of games journalism! As part of the Game Buoy Remake Project initiative, they take a look back at Game Buoy Podcast Episode 6 – Gaming Journalism and the Industry [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-6/]. Back in 2012, games journalism was a bit of a “boy’s club” with an incestuous relationship with the gaming industry, and the Podcast Pirates were championing sites such as 1UP that should have been the standard rather than the exception. Now, over a decade later, Captain Spike and First Mate Slaggy McWaggy reflect on the status of games journalism in the wake of Polygon’s mass layoffs and Giant Bomb’s newfound independence. Thanks to Pete Volk’s Polygon “exit interviews” and investigative reporting from Aftermath’s Luke Plunkett, they share insights directly from those in the field. The Podcast Pirates then examine how games journalism has improved and declined since 2012, and how their expectations have changed. They discuss what they would like to see from gaming journalism moving forward, and contextualize its current state of affairs in the larger sphere of journalism as a whole, its relationship with late-stage capitalism, and a societal shift in the way consumers engage with journalism and the news. Resources discussed: – Pete Volk’s Polygon Exit Interviews [https://pvguide.substack.com/t/polygon-exit-interviews] – ‘There Are So Few Of Us Left’: Even Full-Time Games Journalists At Big Websites Are Feeling It In 2025 [https://web.archive.org/web/20250507013243/https://aftermath.site/video-games-journalism-2025] (Aftermath) – Freelance Video Game Journalists Are Propping Up The Industry, And Many Are Being Paid Dogshit In Return [https://web.archive.org/web/20250424191754/https://aftermath.site/freelance-video-game-journalism-rates] (Aftermath) WHAT’S UP [2:10:16] Captain Spike has been playing Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. First Mate Slaggy McWaggy has been playing Balatro and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. SOCIAL LINKS QUESTION OF THE WEEK [2:19:53] Hello folks, this week we’re looking at the recent kerfuffles in games journalism impacting beloved sites Giant Bomb and Polygon! Are you excited for Giant Bomb’s newfound independence? BONUS QUESTION What is your games journalism/news destination nowadays? It seems so many great sites have dried up! Keep sharing the links! SUPER DELUXE BONUS QUESTION What defunct gaming sites of yesteryear do you miss/wish were still in operation? (Please only respond if you’re comfortable with us reading your responses on air, thanks! ) EXITLUDE [2:24:02] SHOUT OUTS – “FRIENDS OF BUOY” – Orange Lounge Radio [http://www.orangeloungeradio.com], where every gamer has a voice – Aftermath [https://aftermath.site], an independent, worker-owned website about video games, other media and internet culture – The Bobby Blackwolf Show [http://www.bobbyblackwolf.com], a weekly internet radio show and podcast discussing the latest news in gaming as well as sometimes reminiscing about gaming’s history – Video Game Realness [https://videogamerealness.com], a dose of gaming chit chat among friends – Nintendo Pow Block [https://bossrush.net/category/all/podcasts/npb/], a dive into the week that was in the world of Nintendo – Sasha’s Retrobytes [https://bsky.app/profile/sharkabytes.bsky.social], “bytes” of vintage gaming including magazine scans and photographs – Defunct Games [http://www.defunctgames.com], your daily source for modern video game reviews, exciting trivia competitions and old school magazine analysis – Craig [https://craig.chat], Slaggy McWaggy’s robot boyfriend a multi-track voice channel recording bot for Discord Also, our theme music was done by the late, great Zelda Reorchestrated [http://zreo.perix.co.uk], which lives on in the form of ZREO: Second Quest [https://zreosq.com]! The post Game Buoy Podcast Episode 175 – Very Emergency: Game Buoy Remake Project Episode 2 [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-175/] appeared first on GAME BUOY [http://gamebuoy.org].

Ahoy, mateys, and welcome to the GAMEBUOY.ORG video game podcast – your port of call for gaming news and views that maybe aren’t on your radar, but most definitely should be! On this episode, recorded Sunday, May 11, 2025, Captain Spike and First Mate Slaggy McWaggy discuss the changing landscape of games distribution! This episode is part of the Game Buoy Remake Project, a series of themed episodes revisiting previously discussed topics. This week, the Podcast Pirates follow up on Game Buoy Podcast Episode 3 – Digital Distribution and DLC [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-3/], originally published May 8, 2012. HOT TOPIC IS THE WAY THAT WE RHYME [3:35] – Polygon was sold to Valnet and hit with layoffs on the same day that Jeff Grubb announced he was leaving Giant Bomb. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250513024637/https://www.pastemagazine.com/games/games-journalism/game-websites-polygon-and-giant-bomb-both-dismantled-on-the-same-day] – The news of Polygon’s sale to Valnet was first reported by Kotaku. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250513030618/https://kotaku.com/polygon-sold-vox-media-valnet-layoffs-digital-gaming-1851778655] – Per Aftermath, at least 25 Polygon employees were laid off. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250511025913/https://aftermath.site/polygon-layoffs-sale] – However, Fandom sold Giant Bomb to its staff, and Giant Bomb will now be a fully independent, creator owned, and reader supported side. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250512022000/https://aftermath.site/giant-bomb-sold-new-owners-jeff-fandom] – Microsoft has raised Xbox console and game prices in the US. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250509034941/https://www.polygon.com/news/581992/xbox-price-increase-us] – The Overwatch 2 team at Blizzard has fully unionized. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250512114249/https://kotaku.com/overwatch-2-blizzard-team-4-union-microsoft-1851779922] – Nintendo Switch system software Version 20.0 includes the new virtual game card feature, which has changed the way players can share games. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250512035509/https://kotaku.com/nintendo-switch-2-share-virtual-game-card-firmware-20-0-1851778447] – Fortnite has returned to the iOS App Store. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250507183330/https://www.polygon.com/news/576255/fortnite-ios-app-store-return-court-ruling] – 8bitdo is currently not shipping to the US from China due to Trump’s tariffs. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250506092824/https://www.polygon.com/gaming/566642/8bitdo-pauses-us-shipments-trump-tariffs] – Anbernic has suspended all shipments to the US from China as well. [https://www.theverge.com/news/652797/anbernic-suspend-shipments-tariffs-us-china] – The Wii Homebrew Channel’s GitHub repository has been archived due to the discovery that one of its toolkits utilizes stolen Nintendo and open source code. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250506090932/https://www.theverge.com/news/657294/wii-homebrew-channel-archived-stolen-nintendo-code] – Wholesome Direct will take place on Saturday, June 7 at 9 AM Pacific, with proceeds from merchandise sales supporting Point of Pride, a nonprofit that provides gender affirming care and financial support to trans people. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250504232351/https://www.polygon.com/news/565869/wholesome-direct-2025-date-time-cozy-games] – Wolf Hawkfield will be a playable character in the new Virtua Fighter game. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250511161252/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/virtua-fighter-new-project-adds-wolf-hawkfield] RELEASE UPDATES [31:29] – Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. is coming to PS5, Xbox Series, and Switch 2. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250512054331/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/virtua-fighter-5-revo-coming-to-ps5-xbox-series-and-switch-2] – Grand Theft Auto 6 has been delayed until May 26, 2026. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250504015758/https://kotaku.com/gta6-grand-theft-auto-6-release-date-delay-may-2026-1851778799] – The release date of Borderlands 4 has been moved up two weeks earlier, to September 23. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250511092620/https://kotaku.com/borderlands-4-date-moved-up-gta-6-2k-randy-pitchford-1851778271] – Sonic Rumble has been indefinitely delayed. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250505060547/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-04-30/sonic-rumble-game-delayed-until-further-notice/.224091] – Balatro, Ark: Survival Ascended, and Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun are free on PlayStation Plus for May 2025. [rk: Survival Ascended, Balatro, and Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun] – Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter will release on September 19 for PS5, Switch, and PC via Steam. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250510050426/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/trails-in-the-sky-1st-chapter-launches-september-19] – GEX Trilogy launches digitally June 16 for PS5, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC via Steam, with a limited physical release shipping later in 2025. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250508210525/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/gex-trilogy-launches-june-16] – Gears of War: Reloaded is out on August 26 for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250505193433/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/gears-of-war-reloaded-announced-for-ps5-xbox-series-and-pc] – Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution will launch for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC via Steam this summer. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250510225516/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/shantae-advance-risky-revolution-adds-xbox-series-and-xbox-one-versions-launches-this-summer] CULTURE CLUB [37:52] – Somebody beat the Breath of the Wild Switch 2 demo at a Nintendo event with a naked Link. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250430102913/https://kotaku.com/switch-2-zelda-botw-upgrade-speedrun-nintendo-demo-1851778078] – World of Warcraft is adding an optional one-button rotation assist mode. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250503190002/https://www.ign.com/articles/world-of-warcraft-is-getting-a-one-button-option-that-will-automatically-cast-the-ideal-next-spell-but-at-a-cost] – Renowned Japanese TV drama actor Shinya Owada shared the sad news that his original Pokemon Red game save data from 1996 has been lost. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250502013358/https://www.ign.com/articles/japanese-actors-dramatic-pokemon-save-data-loss-goes-viral-triggering-traumatic-memories-and-sympathy-from-fellow-gamers] – The new Star Wars animated series Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld premiered on Fortnite before Disney+. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250504081334/https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/star-wars-tales-of-the-underworld-will-premier-on-fortnite-beginning-may-2-185859424.html] – In a recent interview with Brazilian newspaper Folha de S. Paolo, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser stated that Nintendo had been committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion long before the term DEI came into common usage, and will remain committed. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250504175152/https://www.resetera.com/threads/doug-bowser-says-diversity-is-important-to-nintendo-it-was-in-place-years-before-people-starting-using-the-dei-acronym-and-it-will-stay-in-place.1180596/] – The Nintendo Today app featured a video showing the Joy-Con 2’s mouse functionality in the system menu. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250514024538/https://www.reddit.com/r/NintendoSwitch2/comments/1kk334c/todays_switch_2_news_shows_the_mouse_mode_on_the/] MY OWN PRIVATE IDAHO [53:57] – Kazutaka Kodaka stated that he is glad he made The Hundred Line – Last Defense Academy, even if it doesn’t sell well. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250501021357/https://www.gamesradar.com/games/rpg/i-dont-think-anyone-will-ever-make-something-like-this-again-danganronpa-creator-says-his-new-strategy-rpg-is-a-crazy-game-and-even-if-it-doesnt-sell-well-im-genuinely-glad-we-made-it/] – Unika from the Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers anime will be a new DLC character for Guilty Gear: Strive, coming May 27. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250510161327/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/guilty-gear-strive-dlc-character-unika-launches-may-27] – A demo for Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact is coming to PS5 and PC via Steam this month. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250509142518/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/05/hunter-x-hunter-nen-x-impact-demo-for-ps5-pc-launches-in-may] SO CONTROVERSIAL [59:49] – Sackboy has been quietly removed from PlayStation Productions marketing material. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250503022531/https://www.ign.com/articles/one-time-playstation-mascot-sackboy-quietly-removed-from-playstation-productions-marketing] – Grant Kirkhope reveals why he was not credited for the DK Rap in The Super Mario Bros. Movie. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250506003551/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/04/grant-kirkhope-apparently-got-a-bananas-reason-for-his-missing-mario-movie-credit] – Nintendo is suing accessory maker Genki after it used a 3D-printed mockup of the Switch 2 earlier this year. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250510124036/https://www.theverge.com/news/660815/nintendo-lawsuit-genki-switch-2-accessories] DOOM AND GLOOM [1:09:20] – Respawn has laid off an unspecified number of employees and canceled two early in-development projects. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250503115024/https://kotaku.com/respawn-layoffs-star-wars-jedi-apex-legends-titanfall-1851778330] – EA laid off a narrative designer on Apex Legends the same day her new character was revealed. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250501031553/https://www.gamesradar.com/games/apex-legends/ea-reveals-new-apex-legends-hero-immediately-lays-off-writer-behind-him-its-objectively-pretty-funny-to-get-a-promo-email-for-the-character-i-wrote-the-day-im-let-go/] – Evil Dead: The Game has been removed from digital storefronts. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250502033343/https://www.polygon.com/gaming/567151/evil-dead-the-game-removed-from-digital-storefronts-steam] SMASH HIT [1:16:11] – Elijah Gonzalez at Paste discusses how Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves is a great game that is tainted by its controversy. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250421142532/https://www.pastemagazine.com/games/fatal-fury-city-of-the-wolves/fatal-fury-city-of-the-wolves-review-critique] – Alanah Pearce, formerly of IGN and Sony Santa Monica, investigated the current state of the games industry, and things are “uh, not great.” [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HM9nmqNioQ] RUMOR HAS IT [1:24:00] – Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero is likely coming to Switch 2, per a rating from the Saudi Arabia ratings board. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250430052059/https://kotaku.com/dragon-ball-sparking-zero-is-almost-certainly-coming-t-1851778176] – Valve watchers say that Half-Life 3 is “playable end-to-end” and has a definitive ending. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250510050820/https://www.theverge.com/news/660946/half-life-3-is-playable-end-to-end] – Yuji Horii clarifies his comments about a Chrono Trigger HD-2D remake, stating that nothing is in the works, but many people are asking about it, and he is looking into it. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250508194044/https://www.resetera.com/threads/gamereactor-yuji-horii-clarifies-chrono-trigger-remake-comments-im-starting-to-look-into-it-would-likely-be-hd-2d.1184676/] DISCUSSION TOPIC [1:28:33] This week, Captain Spike and First Mate Slaggy McWaggy discuss the changing landscape of games distribution! As part of the Game Buoy Remake Project initiative, they take a look back at Game Buoy Podcast Episode 3 – Digital Distribution and DLC [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-3/]. Back in 2012, the idea of digital distribution was a new concept – but now it’s so widespread that the majority of new games on home consoles are purchased digitally. The Podcast Pirates discuss how their games consumption habits and preferences have changed since 2012, how comfortable they are with digital purchases in 2025, as well as the Game Key Card kerfuffle. Finally, they wrap up the discussion by discussing the outlook for the future of digital distribution and whether their current digital purchases will remain playable. Resources discussed: – How digital is the video games market in 2024? [https://web.archive.org/web/20250424032306/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/how-digital-is-the-video-games-market-in-2024] (GamesIndustry.biz) – “Nintendo Switch’s digital sales ratio has now, for the first time, surpassed 50% globally” [https://x.com/Chris_Dring/status/1787783311051411502] (Christopher Dring via X) – Nightdive Studios’ CEO Says That Game-Key Cards On Switch 2 Is “Disheartening” [https://web.archive.org/web/20250501110409/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/05/nightdive-studios-ceo-says-that-game-key-cards-on-switch-2-is-disheartening] (Nintendo Life) – Doom: The Dark Ages Disc Is Pretty Much Useless Because You’ll Need An Internet Connection To Download The Full Game Anyway [https://web.archive.org/web/20250509180641/https://www.thegamer.com/doom-the-dark-ages-physical-copy-worthless-internet-access-required-game-not-on-disc/] (TheGamer) – DoesItPlay? [https://www.doesitplay.org/list] WHAT’S UP [2:03:47] Captain Spike has been playing Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Fortnite. First Mate Slaggy McWaggy has been playing Final Fantasy IV Pixel Remaster, Blue Prince, Sonic x Shadow Generations, and Link’s Awakening HD. SOCIAL LINKS QUESTION OF THE WEEK [2:22:23] Hello folks, this week we’re talking about the changing conditions of games distribution! Are you a physical copy adherent, do you prefer digital, or are you somewhere in between? BONUS QUESTION How do you feel about Nintendo’s controversial Game Key Card approach, particularly compared to download codes? EXITLUDE [2:29:26] SHOUT OUTS – “FRIENDS OF BUOY” – Orange Lounge Radio [http://www.orangeloungeradio.com], where every gamer has a voice – Aftermath [https://aftermath.site], an independent, worker-owned website about video games, other media and internet culture – The Bobby Blackwolf Show [http://www.bobbyblackwolf.com], a weekly internet radio show and podcast discussing the latest news in gaming as well as sometimes reminiscing about gaming’s history – Video Game Realness [https://videogamerealness.com], a dose of gaming chit chat among friends – Nintendo Pow Block [https://bossrush.net/category/all/podcasts/npb/], a dive into the week that was in the world of Nintendo – Standard Issue Computing [https://bsky.app/profile/defstanvga.bsky.social], retro and modern computer games, hardware, software, and history – Sasha’s Retrobytes [https://bsky.app/profile/sharkabytes.bsky.social], “bytes” of vintage gaming including magazine scans and photographs – Defunct Games [http://www.defunctgames.com], your daily source for modern video game reviews, exciting trivia competitions and old school magazine analysis – Craig [https://craig.chat], Slaggy McWaggy’s robot boyfriend a multi-track voice channel recording bot for Discord Also, our theme music was done by the late, great Zelda Reorchestrated [http://zreo.perix.co.uk], which lives on in the form of ZREO: Second Quest [https://zreosq.com]! The post Game Buoy Podcast Episode 174 – Digital Love: Game Buoy Remake Project Episode 1 [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-174/] appeared first on GAME BUOY [http://gamebuoy.org].

Ahoy, mateys, and welcome to the GAMEBUOY.ORG video game podcast – your port of call for gaming news and views that maybe aren’t on your radar, but most definitely should be! On this episode, recorded Sunday, April 27, 2025, Captain Spike and First Mate Slaggy McWaggy discuss Square Enix’s various approaches to remakes and remasters in the modern era! HOT TOPIC IS THE WAY THAT WE RHYME [8:11] – The Future Games Show Summer Showcase 2025 airs on June 7. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428164613/https://www.gamesradar.com/games/future-games-show-summer-showcase-2025-date-announcement/] – Over 2.2 million people submitted My Nintendo Store lottery applications for Switch 2 in Japan. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428164834/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/04/switch-2-my-nintendo-store-lottery-applications-surpass-2-2-million-in-japan] – Masahiro Sakurai-san got lucky with the Switch 2 lottery. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428165143/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/04/random-masahiro-sakurai-finds-success-in-switch-2-lottery] – The Mario Kart World Direct aired, giving an overview of the game. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428165424/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/04/mario-kart-world-direct-details-grand-prix-races-knockout-tours-battle-mode-free-roam-and-more] – Ziff Davis is suing OpenAI in a case against copyright theft. [https://bsky.app/profile/toadsanime.lostincult.co.uk/post/3lnnyev5hz22s] – Respawn Entertainment and former XCOM devs at Bit Reactor are developing Star Wars Zero Company, a turn-based tactics game set during the Clone Wars, due out in 2026. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428170525/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/04/star-wars-zero-company-launches-in-2026-debut-trailer-and-screenshots] – Breath of Fire 4 is available on GOG as part of its games preservation program [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428170908/https://www.pcgamer.com/games/rpg/capcoms-wonderful-breath-of-fire-4-is-finally-available-digitally-thanks-to-gog-i-just-wish-it-wasnt-quite-so-faithful-to-a-22-year-old-port/]. RELEASE UPDATES [20:01] – Fishing adventure RPG Nice Day for Fishing comes out May 29 for PlayStation 5, Switch, and PC via Steam. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428172734/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/04/nice-day-for-fishing-launches-may-29] – Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428172945/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/04/inazuma-eleven-victory-road-finally-has-release-date-out-on-switch-2-day-one] comes out August 21 for Switch and Switch 2. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428172945/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/04/inazuma-eleven-victory-road-finally-has-release-date-out-on-switch-2-day-one] – The 2004 GBA game Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones is now available on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428173854/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-04-23/nintendo-switch-online-adds-fire-emblem-the-sacred-stones-in-expansion-pack/.223812] – Dragon Ball Daima DLC is now available for Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428174118/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-04-21/dragon-ball-sparking-zero-game-trailer-reveals-april-24-launch-for-1st-dragon-ball-daima-dlc/.223765] – The “Celestial Guardians” expansion comes to Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket on April 30. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428174300/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/04/pokemon-trading-card-game-pocket-celestial-guardians-expansion-launches-april-30] – Sonic x Shadow Generations will be a launch title for Switch 2. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428174627/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/04/sonic-x-shadow-generations-for-switch-2-launches-june-5] – Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars will be a launch title for Switch 2. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428175523/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/04/suikoden-i-ii-hd-remaster-gate-rune-and-dunan-unification-wars-coming-to-switch-2-on-june-5] – Ghost of Yotei comes out October 2 for PlayStation 5. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428175656/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/04/ghost-of-yotei-launches-october-2] CULTURE CLUB [23:30] – Marvel Rivals quietly patched in graphical improvements that increased the size of male characters’ butts and bulges. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428180157/https://www.gamesradar.com/games/third-person-shooter/marvel-rivals-season-2-quietly-made-one-big-cheeky-change-without-telling-anyone-by-buffing-all-the-male-heros-assets/] – Paul Rudd stars in a new commercial for Nintendo Switch 2 that calls back to his original SNES commercial. [https://youtu.be/3uGXvdbL1ys] – A new demo is available for Unbeatable, a rhythm game where music is illegal. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428180951/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/unbeatable-the-rhythm-game-where-music-is-illegal-and-you-do-crimes-has-a-sick-as-hell-new-demo] – Assassin’s Creed Shadows had the third biggest US launch month in the series and is currently the second best-selling game so far this year. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428181227/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/assassins-creed-shadows-has-third-biggest-us-launch-month-in-series-history-us-monthly-charts] – Diablo IV will have a Berserk collaboration running from May 6 to June 3. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428182711/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2025-04-22/blizzard-entertainment-reveals-diablo-x-berserk-crossover-event/.223758] – The Yunobo amiibo is not yet available for preorder. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428201812/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/04/most-us-amiibo-pre-orders-have-gone-live-but-someones-still-missing] MY OWN PRIVATE IDAHO [32:03] – The full title roster has been revealed for Super Robot Wars Y. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428202026/https://www.rpgsite.net/news/17249-super-robot-wars-y-launches-on-august-28-with-full-title-roster-revealed] – Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster will include mini-games that take advantage of the mouse functionality of the Joy-Con 2. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428202535/https://www.vg247.com/nintendo-switch-2-hardware-bravely-default] – Humble Choice will be increasing in price by €3/$3 CAD per month and will include a subscription to IGN Plus starting in May. [https://bsky.app/profile/wario64.bsky.social/post/3lno7ev5hlf2l] – FuRyu has announced VARLET, a school life RPG coming August 28 to PlayStation 5, Switch, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428202934/https://www.gematsu.com/2025/04/furyu-announces-school-life-rpg-varlet-for-ps5-switch-and-pc] SO CONTROVERSIAL [38:00] – Although the game is being pulled from Steam, the devs behind No Mercy defend their controversial despite featuring incest and nonconsensual encounters. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428203320/https://kotaku.com/no-mercy-sexual-assault-incest-sim-steam-removed-uk-pc-1851775725] – Square Enix says that Barret was designed to look “well-built and not gassy” in the Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428203450/https://www.siliconera.com/ffvii-rebirth-barret-character-model-designed-to-not-look-fat/] – Many third-party Switch 2 games will not include the full game on the physical cartridge, instead opting for “Game Key Cards” instead. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428203719/https://kotaku.com/switch-2-key-card-game-cart-physical-list-confirmed-1851777742] – Marvelous has confirmed its Switch 2 titles will contain the full game on the physical cartridge. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428203944/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/04/marvelous-usa-confirms-its-switch-2-physical-releases-will-contain-the-full-game] DOOM AND GLOOM [48:35] – Following the multi-billion dollar sale of its gaming division, Niantic is laying off 68 employees. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428204151/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/04/after-selling-pokemon-go-for-usd3-5-billion-niantic-spatial-is-now-laying-off-employees] – Meta has laid off an unknown number of employees from its Reality Lab division, impacting the Oculus Labs team. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428204758/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/meta-lays-off-unknown-number-of-staff-in-reality-labs-division] – Mighty Yell has laid off an unknown number of employees. [https://web.archive.org/web/20250428205253/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/toronto-based-developer-mighty-yell-lays-off-employees] MINI-DISCUSSION [50:31] Speaking of “so controversial,” Captain Spike and First Mate Slaggy McWaggy have a mini-discussion about the Switch 2 pre-order hullabaloo! They discuss the general consumer experience with the various retailers, as well as their own personal experiences, and how vitriol against Nintendo for retailer mishaps is misguided. With six weeks to go before the console’s launch, the Podcast Pirates also share their hopes for the period leading up until June 5. DISCUSSION TOPIC [1:03:11] This week, Captain Spike and First Mate Slaggy McWaggy discuss Square Enix’s various approaches to remakes and remasters in the modern era! From full 3D remakes with metanarrative elements, to the Pixel Remasters, to the much loved 2D-HD style, and even more – Square Enix has revisited classic games and lesser known gems alike. Along with a historical note on Square Enix’s legacy of remakes, the Podcast Pirates examine the pros and cons of each approach for both new and returning players, as well as their own personal experiences and preferences. They wrap up the discussion with the Square Enix games they’d like to see remade in the future, and which approaches might be best suited to certain types of games. WHAT’S UP [2:09:58] Captain Spike has been playing Assassin’s Creed Shadows and New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe. First Mate Slaggy McWaggy has been playing Final Fantasy IV Pixel Remaster and Live A Live HD-2D. SOCIAL LINKS QUESTION OF THE WEEK [2:18:04] Hello folks, this week we’re talking about Square Enix Remakes and Remasters! Do you have a favorite approach of the several they’ve taken for revisiting their catalog material? BONUS QUESTION What Square Enix classic would you like to see revisited, and what approach would you like them to take? SUPER DELUXE BONUS QUESTION Did you attempt to partake in the Switch 2 pre-order kerfuffle? If so, how did it go? EXITLUDE [2:23:53] SHOUT OUTS – Orange Lounge Radio [http://www.orangeloungeradio.com], where every gamer has a voice – Aftermath [https://aftermath.site], an independent, worker-owned website about video games, other media and internet culture – The Bobby Blackwolf Show [http://www.bobbyblackwolf.com], a weekly internet radio show and podcast discussing the latest news in gaming as well as sometimes reminiscing about gaming’s history – Video Game Realness [https://videogamerealness.com], a dose of gaming chit chat among friends – Nintendo Pow Block [https://bossrush.net/category/all/podcasts/npb/], a dive into the week that was in the world of Nintendo – Standard Issue Computing [https://bsky.app/profile/defstanvga.bsky.social], retro and modern computer games, hardware, software, and history – Sasha’s Retrobytes [https://bsky.app/profile/sharkabytes.bsky.social], “bytes” of vintage gaming including magazine scans and photographs – Defunct Games [http://www.defunctgames.com], your daily source for modern video game reviews, exciting trivia competitions and old school magazine analysis – Craig [https://craig.chat], Slaggy McWaggy’s robot boyfriend a multi-track voice channel recording bot for Discord Also, our theme music was done by the late, great Zelda Reorchestrated [http://zreo.perix.co.uk], which lives on in the form of ZREO: Second Quest [https://zreosq.com]! The post Game Buoy Podcast Episode 173 – One More Time: Game Buoy Remake Project Episode 0 [http://gamebuoy.org/episode-173/] appeared first on GAME BUOY [http://gamebuoy.org].