The Game Deflators

The Game Deflators E325 | New Pokémon TCG Packs and Live Service Video Games + Starcraft 64 Review

In this exciting episode of the Game Deflators podcast, John and Ryan dive into the official release of Pokémon TCG Pocket's new expansion, Space-Time Smackdown. With over 140 new cards to collect, including fan favorites like Dialga and Palkia, they'll discuss how this new set aims to invigorate the game and its community. They'll also talk about the new trading feature that comes with this update.
Next, our hosts examine the latest GDC survey results, revealing that a third of AAA developers are working on live service games. They'll unpack the data to discuss what this means for the industry, why not all developers are on board, and the potential risks and rewards of live service models.
Finally, John and Ryan will review Starcraft 64, the N64 port of the iconic strategy game. They'll explore its unique qualities, the challenges of adapting a PC game for console, and whether it holds up against its original counterpart.
 
Articles covered:https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/gdcs-annual-state-of-the-game-industry-survey-reveals-1-3-of-triple-a-developers-are-working-on-live-service-games/   
https://www.polygon.com/gaming/512538/new-pokemon-tcg-pocket-space-time-expansion-announced  
 
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

The Game Deflators E324 | Nintendo Switch 2 Reaction and Pokémon Pandemonium + Red Alert PS1 Review

Fist fights over Pokémon cards, Nintendo Switch 2 reactions and recent pickups.
In this week's episode of Game Deflators podcast, John and Ryan dive into the wild world of Pokémon card madness at Costco—yes, you heard that right! They share their thoughts on the recent brawls that broke out over these coveted cards and the frenzy behind it.
Next, the dynamic duo reacts to the highly-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 reveal video. Did Nintendo take missteps in the reveal and what should they have done to combat spoilers? 
Lastly, the Game Deflators take a nostalgic trip back to the late 90s with a review of Command & Conquer: Red Alert Retaliation for the PS1. Is it worth revisiting or better left in the past? Tune in to find out!
 
Articles covered:https://www.tmz.com/2025/01/17/pokemon-cards-costco-fights-los-angeles-store/  
https://www.polygon.com/nintendo/449283/switch-2-announced-2025-release-date-price  
 
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

The Game Deflators E323 | Xbox Exclusives Shocker and Elon Musk's Tangled Tales + Halo Wars Review

Elon Musk and his gaming "prowess", Dungeons and Dragons campaign development and Xbox exclusives possibly coming to PlayStation.
Join John and Ryan on the Game Deflators podcast as they embark on a lively debate: should new Dungeons & Dragons Dungeon Masters create their own worlds or stick to the tried-and-true premade settings? They'll weigh the pros and cons, offering insights and tips for both approaches.
Next up, the duo delves into the rumors about Xbox exclusives potentially making their way to PlayStation. Could we see our favorite titles bridging the console divide?
In a surprising twist, John and Ryan discuss Elon Musk's recent Path of Exile 2 stream. Did he bend the truth?
Finally, they take a nostalgic trip down memory lane with an in-depth review of Halo Wars for the Xbox 360. Does this classic strategy game still hold up today?
 
Articles covered:https://gamerant.com/xbox-major-first-party-games-multiplatform-ps5-2025/  
https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2025/01/10/path-of-exile-2-fans-say-elon-musks-characters-are-clearly-being-boosted/ 
https://screenrant.com/dnd-dms-homebrew-campaigns-not-worlds-op-ed/  
 
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

The Game Deflators E322 | Nintendo Needs a New Plumber +The Psychosis TGX16 Review

More Nintendo Switch 2 leaks, Sony reaching back to the past for the games of the future and video game pickups.
In this episode of The Game Deflators, John and Ryan dive deep into the controversial topic of leaks in the video game industry. Are leaks a necessary evil that generate hype, or do they spoil the surprise and hurt developers? The guys share their thoughts and debate the pros and cons of leaks.
In addition, John and Ryan dissect the latest buzz surrounding the Nintendo Switch, including fresh leaks that have fans buzzing with excitement. They also explore Sony's strategy of reviving beloved old IPs, and speculate on which classics might make a comeback.
Lastly, the guys bring you a nostalgia-packed review of Psychosis for the TurboGrafx-16. Does this classic shooter hold up to the test of time, or is it better left in the past?
 
Articles covered:https://www.eventhubs.com/news/2024/dec/31/nintendo-switch-2-potential-date/ 
https://screenrant.com/sony-classic-ips-on-playstation/ 
 
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

The Game Deflators E321 | Nintendo Switch 2 Image Leaks and Our Top Games of 2024 + Sim Theme Park

Nintendo Switch 2 image leaks, 2025 Dungeons & Dragons content, top video games of 2024 and new gaming resolutions.
In this episode of Game Deflators, John and Ryan delve into the latest leaks surrounding the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, examining the new design features and speculating on its potential impact. They also discuss the upcoming Dungeons & Dragons content for 2025, sharing their excitement for new content. 
Also on this episode the duo reflects on their favorite inflation/deflation games of 2024, highlighting standout titles that captured their attention. Additionally, they reveal their new gaming resolutions for 2025 and their favorite video game of 2024, explaining what made it a memorable experience.
Capping off the year the Game Deflators take their talents sim land in the PS1 title Sim Theme Park. Hear what the guys had to say about this easy to learn and highly affordable video game.
 
Articles covered:https://kotaku.com/nintendo-switch-2-reveal-images-leaks-ai-fake-reddit-1851729048 
https://gamerant.com/dungeons-and-dragons-2025-plans-roadmap-teaser-dnd-events/ 
 
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

The Game Deflators E320 | Video Game Reprints are Necessary for Collectors + Uninvited NES Review

Join John and Ryan on this week's Game Deflators podcast episode as they dive into the latest trends and news in the gaming world! In this episode, they discuss the impact of current-gen video game reprints on the long-term viability of physical media. Are we witnessing the end of an era, or is there still hope for physical copies?
They also break down the most recent news on Sony's strategic partnership with Kadokawa, exploring what this collaboration means for the future of gaming content and distribution.
Next, they delve into Xbox Project Rainway, a new initiative that could change the way we think about gaming on the go. What is it, and how might it shape the future of Xbox gaming?
Finally, they review the classic NES game Uninvited, offering their thoughts on its gameplay, story, and lasting appeal. Is it a hidden gem worth revisiting, or a relic best left in the past?
Articles covered:https://www.ign.com/articles/sony-becomes-majority-shareholder-in-fromsoftware-parent-kadokawa-no-full-takeover-for-now 
https://www.purexbox.com/news/2024/12/xbox-is-reportedly-working-on-a-cross-platform-interface-called-project-rainway 
 
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

The Game Deflators E319 | The Game Awards 2024 and Switch Pirate Evading Nintendo + The Wario Land 3 GBC

Nintendo Switch  renderings, Nintendo Switch pirate evading Nintendo and the 2024 Game Awards.
In this episode of Game Deflators, John and Ryan kick things off with an in-depth discussion on the 2024 Game Awards, breaking down the winners, surprising moments, and standout announcements from the event.
Next, the guys discuss renderings of the Nintendo Switch 2 being used in recent marketing from a third party. John and Ryan will speculate on the possible features and design improvements of the highly anticipated next-gen console.
The conversation continues as they they dive into the drama surrounding a Nintendo Switch pirate who has managed to evade their lawsuit. 
Finally, they take a nostalgic look back with a review of Wario Land 3. They'll discuss the game's unique mechanics, graphics and gameplay, and whether it's worth the $25 price tag.
 
Articles covered:https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/nintendo/nintendo-switch-2-design-seemingly-leaked-by-carrying-case-maker-similar-aesthetics-but-with-a-larger-screen-and-joy-cons 
https://overkill.wtf/nintendo-serve-sue-pirate-streamer-lawsuit-keighin/ 
 
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

The Game Deflators E318 | What is the Best Top Rated Shooter?

On this week's episode of the Game Deflators podcast, John and Ryan embark on an epic journey through the history of shooter video games. They're diving into three of the most iconic and top-rated titles ever released: Perfect Dark for the N64, Halo: Combat Evolved for the Xbox, and Gears of War for the Xbox 360.
Join the duo as they:
Revisit Perfect Dark: Delve into the groundbreaking features that made this N64 classic a fan favorite, from its innovative AI to its engaging story and multiplayer modes.
Experience Halo: Combat Evolved: Explore the game that redefined first-person shooters on consoles, introducing the legendary Master Chief and an expansive universe that captivated millions of players.
Battle through Gears of War: Analyze the intense combat mechanics, gripping narrative, and stunning visuals that set a new standard for third-person shooters on the Xbox 360.
John and Ryan will compare and contrast these legendary games, discussing their impact on the genre and gaming culture. They'll debate which game deserves the top spot on the podium, considering factors like gameplay, story, graphics, and lasting influence.
Don't miss this action-packed episode as the Game Deflators settle the ultimate question: Which shooter reigns supreme?
 
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

The Game Deflators E317 | Will a New Xbox Handheld Hold its Own + Red Faction PS2 Review

Black Friday gaming sales, Epic Mickey sales slump, an Xbox handheld on the horizon and Red Faction.
Join John and Ryan in this jam-packed episode of Game Deflators podcast as they dive into some recent gaming news and rumors. First up, they analyze the Black Friday sales and whether they're truly worth the hype. Are the deals as good as they seem, or is it all just clever marketing?
Next, they explore the current demand for remakes and remasters of video games. Using the sales figures of Epic Mickey Rebrushed and Silent Hill 2 as a reference, they discuss whether this trend is still going strong or if the gaming community is ready to move on.
In addition, they tackle the exciting rumors about an Xbox handheld. What could this mean for the future of portable gaming, and how might it compete with existing handheld consoles?
Finally, they review the classic PS2 game Red Faction, reminiscing about its groundbreaking gameplay and discussing how it holds up in today's gaming landscape.
 
Articles covered:https://mynintendonews.com/2024/12/01/thq-says-epic-mickey-rebrushed-sales-slower-than-expected/ 
https://gamerant.com/xbox-handheld-console-rumor-pc-compatible-playstation-games-good-why/ 
 
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

The Game Deflators E316 | Interview with Fresh Brewed Games

On this special mid-week release of the Game Deflators podcast John and Ryan are joined by JRod of Fresh Brewed Games to discuss the video game steel book publisher's process, games on the horizon and what you can expect when ordering from Fresh Brewed Games.
Preorders for their first release Speedollama can be found at https://www.freshsteelbookgames.com/product-page/speedollama-ps5
 
Learn more at:
https://x.com/GingerichJrod
www.freshsteelbookgames.com
 
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18