This week on the M2 Podcast, we dive into Microsoft’s bumpy entry into handheld gaming with the Xbox Ally and Ally X — Windows-powered devices that feel more like PCs in disguise than true Xbox consoles. We also break down EA’s latest crackdown as Battlefield 6 bans Cronus Zen users across PC and console in a major anti-cheat move. Finally, Ubisoft…

This week on the M2 Podcast, we’re diving into some of the strangest and boldest moves in gaming. Ubisoft reportedly canceled an Assassin’s Creed game set during the American Civil War amid political concerns and backlash over Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Meanwhile, Battlefield 6 surprises players with a fully playable physical copy that requires no i…

This week on the M2 Podcast, we dive into some of the biggest gaming and tech shake-ups making headlines. EA is set to go private in a massive $55 billion buyout backed by Silver Lake, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners, raising questions about the future of franchises like Madden and Battlefield. We also e…

This week on the M2 Podcast we break down Microsoft’s surprise Xbox price hike coming in October, dig into the mixed community reactions to Steam’s freshly overhauled storefront, and run through every major reveal from PlayStation’s September State of Play—including bloody new Wolverine gameplay, Housemarque’s Saros release date, and a first look a…

This week on the M2 Podcast, we dive into some of the biggest gaming announcements and hardware reveals of the season. Microsoft’s new Xbox full-screen mode for handheld Windows devices has leaked early, giving ROG Ally and similar PCs a true console-style interface. Logitech and McLaren team up for sleek, papaya-orange sim-racing gear, including a…

This week on the M2 Podcast, we cover a wide range of gaming headlines and hardware news. Microsoft is turning the backseat into a gaming lounge with Xbox Cloud Gaming coming to select LG-powered cars. Nintendo scores another legal win as a Switch modder is ordered to pay $2 million for piracy. Former Bethesda exec Pete Hines weighs in on subscript…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into some of the biggest stories shaking up the gaming world this week. Blizzard has officially taken legal action against Turtle WoW, marking the end of an era for one of the most popular World of Warcraft private servers. Meanwhile, No Man’s Sky is soaring again, with its Voyagers update pulling in the h…

On this week’s episode of the M2 Podcast, we cover some of the biggest headlines in gaming. We start with Abxylute’s wild new 3D handheld, built with Intel and Tencent, featuring an 11-inch glasses-free 3D screen and detachable controllers. Next, we look at Battlefield 2042’s surprising resurgence as fans eagerly await Battlefield 6. We also dive i…

This week on the M2 Podcast, we dive into a big shift at Bungie as longtime CEO Pete Parsons steps down, passing leadership to Justin Truman, who promises to guide both Destiny 2 and Marathon into the future. We also look at Hyperkin’s upcoming DualSense-inspired Xbox controller, finally launching this fall after years of anticipation. And of cours…

This week on the M2 Podcast, we’re breaking down some of the biggest stories shaking up the gaming world. Krafton fires back at a lawsuit from Subnautica 2’s former leads, accusing them of abandoning their roles and chasing a payout they “haven’t earned.” Over in the FPS arena, Battlefield 6”s Javelin anti-cheat has already blocked a staggering 330…

This week on the M2 Podcast, we dive into the highs, lows, and head-scratchers shaping the gaming industry right now. Despite a $300 million loss from Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League and Multiversus, WB Games is doubling down on live service games with a mysterious new DC-based title. Microsoft begins rolling out age verification for Xbox us…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we unpack a fresh wave of nostalgia and controversy in the gaming world. Maingear’s new Retro95 desktop brings back ‘90s vibes with Windows 95-era aesthetics and cutting-edge internals. EA officially announces Battlefield 6, teasing a large-scale conflict that may hit New York City. Ubisoft doubles down on microtr…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we break down the latest gaming industry shake-ups and tech updates. Krafton is being sued by the founders of Unknown Worlds after delaying Subnautica 2, though the publisher now says it will extend the bonus eligibility window and front some profit-sharing to employees. Nintendo’s Legend of Zelda live-action movi…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we cover another dramatic week in the gaming world. Krafton has delayed Subnautica 2 until 2026, just ahead of a $250 million bonus payout — sparking speculation about motives beyond “quality improvements.” Meanwhile, Ubisoft’s long-running misconduct scandal reaches a legal milestone as three former executives ar…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into a turbulent week across the gaming industry. Microsoft is reportedly preparing major layoffs within its Xbox division as part of a broader restructuring effort tied to its next-gen hardware strategy. Meanwhile, Riot Games is shaking up esports by allowing betting sponsorships for Tier 1 League of Lege…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we break down some of the biggest stories rocking the gaming industry this week. We unpack Xbox's bold new direction, as the company announces its next-gen consoles will support multiple storefronts and handhelds, reshaping the traditional console ecosystem. Over in Nintendo land, the Switch 2 is making headlines—but …

Summer Game Fest kicked off the season with a bang, headlined by Resident Evil 9's official reveal as Resident Evil Requiem, promising a shift in tone for its February 2026 release. The Lies of P: Overture expansion dropped immediately, while major sequels like 'Death Stranding 2: On the Beach' (June 26th), 'Mortal Shell II', and 'Atomic Heart 2' s…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we cover the latest shakeups and reveals in the world of gaming. Ubisoft surprises fans by skipping its annual Ubisoft Forward showcase for the first time since 2020, opting instead for appearances at other summer events. Riot Games announces major updates for *Valorant*, including a long-awaited replay system and a s…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we explore a wide range of stories shaping the gaming and tech industries. Bandai revives the Tamagotchi craze with Tamagotchi Paradise, an ambitious new device that lets you nurture an entire planet of virtual pets. Discord jumps into the ad-reward game with “Orbs,” a new in-app currency that pays users to engage wit…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we break down a whirlwind of updates across the gaming world. MSI shakes up the handheld market with its new Claw A8, now powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip. Meanwhile, Atomfall proves that Game Pass isn’t a death sentence for profitability, with Rebellion celebrating its biggest launch yet. On the flip side, Bung…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we explore the deep cuts and shifting strategies shaking up the games industry. Warner Bros. reports a 48% drop in Q1 games revenue, pointing to no major releases and the underperformance of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. Square Enix unveils a three-year reboot plan aimed at consistent, high-quality, multipla…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into Microsoft's sweeping Xbox price hikes—consoles, controllers, and even first-party games are getting more expensive worldwide. We also unpack Bungie’s bold Star Wars crossover with Destiny 2’s new Renegades expansion, lightsabers and all. Plus, EA teases a full Battlefield reveal coming this summer with a …

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dig into EA's turbulent week, from cutting 300 jobs—including roughly 100 at Respawn—and reportedly canceling a Titanfall project, to spotlighting their impressive anticheat tech, EA Javelin, which boasts a 99% accuracy rate in banning cheaters. We also explore the shutdown of the iconic Wii Homebrew Channel am…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we explore how nostalgia might be Bethesda's secret weapon as the surprise remaster of Oblivion rekindles excitement among Elder Scrolls fans—just when the studio needed it most. We also dive into Fortnite’s upcoming Star Wars: Galactic Battle season, featuring the wild debut of Darth Jar Jar and Force Lightning. On t…

In this episode, we dive into the latest buzz surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2—including a surprising move by Nintendo that lets players borrow, resell, and trade digital games via new game-key cards. We also break down why Switch 2's GameChat might look a little choppy and why that's totally intentional. Plus, with Xbox announcing its next major …

In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about the Nintendo Switch 2—from its hefty price tags to its impressive new tech. With Mario Kart World launching at $80 and accessories stacking up in cost, is Nintendo testing the limits of what fans will pay? Meanwhile, Nvidia has confirmed that the Switch 2 will feature DLSS and real-ti…

In this episode, we dive into some of the biggest gaming industry shake-ups. With GTA 6 looming on the horizon, publishers are scrambling to avoid releasing their titles in its wake, fearing the inevitable sales juggernaut. Meanwhile, Warner Bros. was reportedly working on a Mario Kart-style crossover racer featuring characters like Tom and Jerry, …

In this episode, we explore some of the biggest gaming industry updates and discussions. Bethesda's Todd Howard names Tetris and Pac-Man as the most important games of all time, while citing Super Mario Bros. and Doom as the most influential. Meanwhile, Hazelight’s Josef Fares has already started work on his next project following the success of Sp…

In this episode, we delve into recent developments in the gaming industry. Take-Two Interactive has filed a lawsuit against PlayerAuctions, alleging the sale of unauthorized, hacked Grand Theft Auto V content, disrupting fair gameplay. Sony is exploring AI integration by developing an AI-powered version of Aloy from Horizon Forbidden West, enabling…

In this episode, we delve into recent developments in the gaming industry, starting with Rockstar Games' acquisition of Sydney-based Video Games Deluxe, now rebranded as Rockstar Australia. We also explore the upcoming release of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4, a remastered collection set to launch on July 11, 2025, featuring enhanced visuals, new sk…

In this episode, we delve into significant shifts within the gaming industry. Warner Bros. Games has announced the closure of three of its studios—Monolith Productions, Player First Games, and WB Games San Diego—and the cancellation of the highly anticipated Wonder Woman game. This strategic move aims to refocus efforts on key franchises such as Ha…

In this week's episode, we delve into the unexpected layoffs at NetEase's Seattle studio, which developed the highly successful game Marvel Rivals. Despite the game's popularity, the company has laid off its U.S.-based design team to "optimize development efficiency," raising questions about job security in the gaming industry. We also explore the …

In this week's episode, we delve into the formation of the Robust Open Online Safety Tools (ROOST) initiative by industry leaders Google, OpenAI, Roblox, and Discord, aiming to enhance child safety online through open-source AI tools. We also explore Nintendo's recent patent filings, revealing potential mouse-like functionality for the upcoming Swi…

In this episode, we delve into significant developments in the gaming industry. We discuss Hideaki Nishino's appointment as President and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, effective April 1, 2025, and its potential impact on PlayStation's future. We also explore the innovative features of the newly announced AYANEO 3, the world's first modular…

In this episode, we delve into significant shifts in the gaming industry, starting with Hideaki Nishino's appointment as the sole CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, effective April 1, 2025. We also explore the unveiling of the AYANEO 3, a $900 modular handheld gaming PC that offers customizable controls and high-performance features. Additional…

In this episode, we delve into President Trump's proposed 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, exploring their potential impact on video game prices and the future of physical game releases. We also discuss the latest updates on Nintendo's upcoming console, the Switch 2, including its anticipated features and release timeline. Additionall…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the latest in gaming and tech from CES 2025! We break down Nvidia's groundbreaking reveal of the RTX 50-series GPUs, including the powerhouse RTX 5090 and RTX 5080. With cutting-edge GDDR7 memory, PCIe Gen 5 support, and the innovative Blackwell architecture, these GPUs promise to double performance over …

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the biggest reveals and moments from The Game Awards 2024. From Naughty Dog's cosmic adventure Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet to the highly anticipated The Witcher 4, we break down the latest game announcements. Capcom delights fans with the return of Okami and Onimusha, while FromSoftware unveils a c…

In this episode, we dive into PTW's new studio in Charleston, South Carolina, set to revolutionize QA testing, and analyze predictions of Ubisoft's potential privatization amidst its ongoing struggles. We explore Capcom's innovative game development competition using the RE Engine, discuss a study linking gaming to improved cognitive abilities in c…

In this episode, we delve into the latest developments shaking up the gaming world. Intel steps up with its budget-friendly Arc B580 and B570 GPUs, challenging Nvidia and AMD on performance per dollar. Ubisoft pulls the plug on XDefiant, refunding players as the once-promising shooter faces an abrupt end. We explore Codecks' €1 million funding boos…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into the latest gaming news, starting with Balatro's impressive $4.4 million success on mobile without relying on microtransactions, highlighting the impact of premium pricing in today’s gaming economy. We also explore how Goose Byte, a studio born from an Embracer Group initiative, is navigating the turbu…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the evolving definition of Xbox as Microsoft reimagines its gaming ecosystem beyond consoles, explore Two Point Studios' return to in-office collaboration, and discuss Sony’s rumored buyout of FromSoftware parent Kadokawa. We also cover Valve’s potential Steam Controller 2, the latest update bringing clou…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the financial struggles of Warner Bros. Games, with CEO David Zaslav addressing a year of underperforming releases and major losses. We also explore how Riot Games' Vanguard anti-cheat system is making strides in the fight against PC gaming cheaters in Valorant. Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto shares his pers…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we delve into AMD’s powerful new Ryzen 7 9800X3D, offering enhanced gaming performance and 3D V-Cache technology. Bungie provides a development update on their highly anticipated Marathon, though gameplay footage remains elusive. We also explore Sony’s decision to close Neon Koi and Firewalk Studios, and hear strong o…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we dive into the latest gaming news and controversies. Netflix shuts down its California-based AAA game studio, just as key leaders depart. Activision announces a new AI-driven plan to tackle Call of Duty cheaters, aiming to remove offenders within an hour. Meanwhile, Ubisoft slashes the price of the Assassin's Creed …

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we explore Analogue's modernized N64 console, the Analogue 3D, designed to deliver a nostalgic experience in 4K resolution. We discuss Ubisoft France's staff strike over return-to-office policies, Bandai Namco's controversial use of "expulsion rooms," and the implications for the industry. We also dive into the latest…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we explore Nintendo's surprising new Alarmo device and its unique approach to waking you up without game-like distractions. We also delve into Ubisoft's legal troubles over alleged data sharing with Meta, and the story behind a former Bethesda developer's departure to pursue his solo project, "The Axis Unseen." Pl…

In this episode, we dive into the latest gaming industry headlines, starting with Fntastic's surprising return after the controversial failure of *The Day Before* and their launch of ‘Fntastic 2.0’. We also cover Nintendo’s legal crackdown on Switch emulators, resulting in the shutdown of Ryujinx, and Hi-Rez Studios’ recent layoffs in a bid to refo…

In this episode of M2 Podcast, we cover Don't Nod's rough financial start to 2024 and their decision to pause two major projects. We also dive into Ubisoft's sudden cancellation of their Tokyo Game Show appearance, Sony's massive $400 million investment in the failed game Concord, and the real reason behind Blizzard co-founder Mike Morhaime's exit,…

In this episode of the M2 Podcast, we dive into Nintendo and Pokémon's lawsuit against the creators of Palworld for alleged patent infringement. We also explore the financial struggles of Disguised Toast's esports team, despite its passionate following, and Saber Interactive’s moves to pay down debt through fresh investments. Ubisoft announces a hy…