Episodes
May 18, 2025
May 18, 2025
48 min
Join the Game Deflators podcast as John and Ryan kick things off by sharing their latest gaming pickups and video games they are currently playing; including Shadow the Tomb Raider and Risk of Rain 2. The conversation takes a turn as they break down the recent controversy surrounding Bungie allegedly using an artist's work without permission—what does this mean for corporate accountability in game development?
Next, the duo digs into the ongoing efforts by a modders to reverse Nintendo-influenced changes to Palworld. With the gaming industry constantly shifting, how far can modders push back before publishers crack down?
Wrapping up the episode, they shine a spotlight on Go Go Hypergrind, the quirky and elusive GameCube skateboarding game developed with input from a legendary animation studio. Does this cult classic still hold up, or is it destined to remain a deep-cut oddity?
Articles covered:https://www.ign.com/articles/palworld-modders-are-restoring-mechanics-pocketpair-was-forced-to-patch-out-due-to-nintendo-and-the-pokmon-companys-patent-lawsuit
https://www.pcgamer.com/games/fps/artist-accuses-bungie-of-stealing-her-designs-for-marathons-art-i-am-tired-of-designers-from-huge-companies-moodboarding-and-parasitising-my-designs-while-i-struggle-to-make-a-living/
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
May 11, 2025
May 11, 2025
55 min
John and Ryan are back with a Game Deflators Podcast episode breaking down the latest gaming and tech shake-ups. First up, they tackle Nintendo’s pricing strategy for the Switch 2—could tariffs and rising production costs lead to a price hike in the future?
Next, they explore Apple’s latest courtroom maneuver in its ongoing Epic Games legal battle, as the tech giant seeks to pause a ruling that could reshape the App Store landscape. How will this impact developers, mobile gaming, and Apple's grip on its ecosystem?
Finally, the duo dives into a review of Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness, the cult classic GameCube RPG that dared to shake up the franchise with Shadow Pokémon, dark twists, and a compelling villain. Is it a hidden gem or just a nostalgic throwback?
Articles covered:https://gamerant.com/nintendo-switch-2-us-price-increase-possibile/
https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/boards-policy-regulation/apple-asks-us-appeals-court-pause-ruling-epic-games-case-2025-05-08/
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
May 4, 2025
May 4, 2025
1hr 3 min
On this episode of the Game Deflators podcast, John and Ryan are joined by Killian Davies of AZ Stolas to discuss his latest one-shot adventure, Loo Loo Lunacy, and his upcoming Kickstarter projects. Inspired by the popular web series Helluva Boss, Loo Loo Lunacy takes players into the chaotic depths of Loo Loo Land, a devilish amusement park filled with danger, intrigue, and dark humor.
Killian shares insights into the publishing process and hurdles he overcame. Hi also goes in depth on the adventure’s design, including its unique race options—each with distinct subraces. With physical handouts like detailed maps and scavenger hunts, Loo Loo Lunacy offers an immersive tabletop experience unlike any other.
Beyond the adventure, the guys explore the intricacies of D&D worldbuilding—discussing how to craft immersive settings, build dynamic narratives, and keep players engaged in unforgettable campaigns.
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
Apr 27, 2025
Apr 27, 2025
1hr 8 min
Join John and Ryan on this week's episode of The Game Deflators Podcast as they dive into the intriguing world of Clair Obscur Expedition 33. Hear their thoughts on the The Last of Us Season 2, and explore the record-breaking success of the Final Fantasy Magic: The Gathering set, now the best-selling in history. Plus, don't miss their in-depth review of Chibi Robo for the GameCube, a hidden gem that deserves a closer look.
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
Apr 21, 2025
Apr 21, 2025
53 min
In this episode, John and Ryan are joined by veteran artist and art director Dev Madan for an exclusive look behind the scenes of the video game industry. With 35 years of experience spanning video games, animation, and comics, Dev has worn many creative hats—serving as Art Director at Toys For Bob, Founder of Loose Cannon Studios, and Art Director at Sucker Punch Productions for the beloved Sly Cooper series.
Together, they explore the artistic process, the evolution of game art, and the untold stories behind Dev’s work on major projects. From concept sketches to final visuals, Dev reveals insights that fans and aspiring artists won’t want to miss. He also shares his experiences collaborating with industry giants like Sony, Funko, Squaresoft, Marvel, and DC Comics.
Whether you're an artist, gamer, or just curious about the creative magic behind your favorite games, this episode promises a fascinating deep dive into the world of art direction. Learn more about Dev at www.devmadan.com
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
Apr 13, 2025
Apr 13, 2025
49 min
In this week's episode of The Game Deflators Podcast, John and Ryan dive into some of the hottest gaming news and controversies. First, they break down the latest PlayStation Plus price hikes affecting over 20 different countries, discussing what this means for gamers. Is the subscription service still worth the cost?
Next, they examine a recent study by Newzoo on video game microtransactions, exploring how in-game purchases shape player behavior and the gaming industry as a whole. Are microtransactions a necessary evil, or are they pushing the limits of what players are willing to spend?
Finally, the duo takes a nostalgic trip back to the NES era with a review of Battletoads—a game notorious for its punishing difficulty. Does the cult classic still hold up, or is it best left in the past?
Articles covered:https://kotaku.com/pc-gaming-microtransactions-elden-ring-borderlands-4-1851775837
https://www.thegamer.com/playstation-plus-ps-plus-price-hikes/
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
Apr 6, 2025
Apr 6, 2025
1hr 2 min
In this week's episode of The Game Deflators Podcast, John and Ryan dive into the latest gaming drama: delays to the U.S. preorders of the Nintendo Switch 2. As American gamers grow restless, Japan takes a bold approach to curb scalping by introducing a Japan-exclusive Nintendo Switch 2—a strategy that could reshape global preorders.
Fresh off his trip to the 2025 Game On Expo, John gives his in-depth review of the event—sharing his experience at the event, convention purchases, and the general atmosphere of one of the year’s biggest gaming conventions.
Capping off the episode the guys review Paperboy on the NES and Arcade 1 Up. Is this game still as difficult today as it was in the 80s?
Articles covered:https://www.polygon.com/nintendo-switch-2/553133/pre-orders-delayed-trump-tariff
https://www.gfinityesports.com/article/japan-is-getting-a-cheaper-switch-2-but-theres-a-catch-to-combat-scalpers
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
Apr 2, 2025
Apr 2, 2025
33 min
On this episode of the Game Deflators podcast John and Ryan break down the latest Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, covering all the biggest game reveals, pricing details, and new peripherals. From Mario Kart World to Elden Ring, they analyze what these titles mean for Nintendo fans.
Plus, they dive into the $449 price tag, new Joy-Cons, and whether the Switch Camera is a must-have or just another gimmick. Is the Switch 2 worth it, or should gamers wait?
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
Mar 30, 2025
Mar 30, 2025
1hr 20 min
Nintendo Direct discussion and a Game on Expo preview.
This week on the Game Deflators podcast John and Ryan dive into their recent gaming pickups, Dungeons and Dragons Campaign updates, and the highlights from the latest Nintendo Direct. But that's not all—Jim from the Game On Expo and Crit Hit Con team joins the show for an exciting interview. He shares insider details about the tabletop gaming area at Game On Expo and gives listeners an exclusive peek at what to expect at the event.
Closing out the episode, the guys dive into their NES game review of Cybernoid!
Articles covered:https://www.gamespot.com/gallery/nintendo-direct-march-2025-all-the-biggest-announcements/2900-6377/
Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18
Mar 23, 2025
Mar 23, 2025
40 min
In this week's exciting episode of The Game Deflators, John and Ryan delve into the future of gaming technology with a discussion on Sony's latest patent for controllers featuring solar charging. Could this be the eco-friendly breakthrough gamers have been waiting for?
The duo also tackles the growing challenges faced by the Steam Deck as it struggles to keep pace with the demanding specs of modern AAA games. Is the handheld powerhouse losing its edge in the fast-evolving gaming industry?
Finally, they turn back the clock for a nostalgic deep dive into the iconic Mega Man 1 for the NES. Was it truly a defining classic, or does the Blue Bomber's debut have its flaws?
Articles covered:https://gamerant.com/playstation-controller-solar-charging-patent/
https://www.eurogamer.net/digitalfoundry-2025-too-big-for-steam-deck-many-triple-a-games-are-unplayable-on-valves-handheld
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Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18