Game Scoop! Episode 788: One Week With the PS5 Pro

Release Date: November 15, 2024 | Host: IGN

In the latest episode of Game Scoop!, hosted by Damon Hatfield, Emmett Hadfield, and featuring guests Justin Davis, Sam Claiborne, and Mark Medina, the team delves deep into their week-long experience with the highly anticipated PlayStation 5 Pro, explores new gaming releases, and engages in lively discussions about upcoming titles and gaming hardware innovations.

1. Introduction and Guest Welcome

The episode kicks off with Damon Hatfield introducing the panel and welcoming Justin Davis to the show.

Justin Davis [00:55]: "You know what, I feel welcome this week. Thank you."

With Mark Medina and Sam Claiborne also joining the conversation, the hosts set the stage for an engaging discussion ahead.

2. PlayStation 5 Pro Review: A Week in the Life

Mark Medina shares his comprehensive hands-on review after spending a full week with the PS5 Pro.

Mark Medina [03:06]: "I'm here and I'm excited. Damon got a great show for this week."

Physical Design and Build:

Mark begins by highlighting the physical differences between the PS5 Pro and the standard PS5. Notably, the Pro is smaller and lighter, making it easier to handle.

Mark Medina [03:12]: "It's a tiny bit smaller. So for the viewers, if it were a regular PS5, the regular PS5 would probably be like right here. But it's way lighter."

However, he points out the absence of the stand that typically accompanies the standard PS5, attributing it to personal preference.

Mark Medina [04:28]: "I like it like this. It feels sturdy enough."

Performance Insights:

Mark discusses the PS5 Pro's performance with various games, noting mixed experiences:

• Lego Horizon Adventures:

  Despite being a standout title, Mark expresses disappointment with its optimization on the PS5 Pro, particularly in quality mode where it runs at 30fps, which he finds subpar.

  Mark Medina [05:15]: "Nothing like getting your brand new PS5 Pro and then booting up first-party game, Lego Horizon and being like performance or quality mode? I'm like, are you kidding me?"

• Spider-Man 2 and Dragon Age: The Veilguard:

  While Spider-Man 2 showcases impressive visuals with improved ray tracing, Dragon Age doesn't visibly benefit from the Pro's enhancements when played alongside someone on the standard PS5.

  Sam Claiborne [08:49]: "There’s two ways to evaluate something like this."

Mark also praises other titles like Final Rebirth and Dragon's Dogma 2 for their stellar performance and visuals on the Pro.

Mark Medina [11:27]: "First being Final Rebirth. Incredible. Dragon's Dogma 2 runs it like a perfect 60 and looks gorgeous."

Storage and Future-Proofing:

Addressing storage concerns, Mark emphasizes the PS5 Pro's 2TB SSD, which alleviates the need for additional storage upgrades often required with the standard PS5.

Mark Medina [12:24]: "If you could sell your PS5 and get a discount on this thing, do it. If you don't own a PS5, just get it right."

He concludes by recommending the PS5 Pro for new buyers, citing future game optimizations and upcoming exclusive titles that will fully leverage the Pro's capabilities.

3. Microsoft's Xbox Handheld Announcement

The conversation shifts to Microsoft's confirmed plans to release an Xbox handheld device, though it's noted to be years away from launch.

Damon Hatfield [14:33]: "Speaking of new gaming hardware, this week Microsoft confirmed its plans to release an Xbox handheld."

Industry Context and Speculations:

The panel debates Microsoft's timing, especially amidst the success of competitors like the Steam Deck and the aging Nintendo Switch.

Sam Claiborne [15:36]: "There's a lot of options for handhelds now, but an official Xbox handheld still seems like it's missing something."

Speculation around the handheld's features suggests potential advancements in cloud gaming and connectivity, aiming to distinguish it from existing options.

Justin Davis [16:05]: "Maybe they're waiting on some tech that they're reserving and getting right for this."

Market Impact:

Mark raises concerns about Microsoft's branding strategy, referencing their "everything is an Xbox" slogan, which might blur the brand's distinct identity.

Mark Medina [16:31]: "If everything is an Xbox, then nothing is an Xbox."

Conclusion on Xbox Handheld:

The group remains cautiously optimistic, acknowledging the competitive landscape and the potential innovative features Microsoft might introduce.

4. Digital Eclipse's Tetris Forever: A Deeper Look

Damon Hatfield offers his insights on Digital Eclipse's latest package, Tetris Forever, which combines classic gameplay with documentary elements.

Damon Hatfield [25:15]: "I have spent a couple of evenings watching all this documentary footage and I'm still not done with it yet."

Historical Accuracy and Storytelling:

The team discusses the documentary's portrayal of Tetris's history, distinguishing it from the dramatized version seen in the Tetris movie on Apple TV.

Sam Claiborne [39:52]: "They have created a new medium. They’ve made a new art form."

Gameplay Experience:

Mark praises the collection for its interactive approach, allowing players to explore the Tetris legacy through playable game segments and historical narratives.

Mark Medina [43:29]: "There's a lot of cool footage, and it really enhances the overall experience."

However, Sam points out limitations due to licensing, noting the absence of certain versions like the NES/Game Boy editions.

Sam Claiborne [43:29]: "They are commercial products, so it's not a complete history."

Overall Recommendation:

The panel highly recommends Tetris Forever for enthusiasts, highlighting its blend of gameplay and documentary storytelling as a unique offering in game preservation.

Sam Claiborne [41:33]: "I think they’ve created the new medium... It’s an interactive retelling of the history of that medium."

5. Xenotilt: A New Video Pinball Experience

Damon Hatfield introduces Xenotilt, a fresh entry in the video pinball genre, inspired by classics like Demon’s Tilt and Alien’s Crush.

Damon Hatfield [44:21]: "Xenotilt is finally out, which is 1.0 version."

Game Features:

• Visuals and Soundtrack: Xenotilt boasts a synthwave aesthetic with a dynamic, Sega Genesis-style soundtrack.
• Gameplay Mechanics: Features multiple tiers with unique bosses, vibrant effects, and a blend of traditional pinball with bullet hell elements.

Justin Davis [45:38]: "It's really, really flashy... it's got a Sega Genesis style soundtrack."

User Experience:

Mark notes the game's high-energy visuals can sometimes make tracking the ball challenging but overall finds it super fun and engaging.

Damon Hatfield [45:57]: "It's a good teacher."

6. Television Takeover: Discussions on "The Penguin" and Beyond

The hosts transition to discussing recent television shows, starting with "The Penguin", a spin-off from the Batman universe.

Mark Medina [48:16]: "I thought it was great. It was a very, very good show."

Show Reviews:

• "The Penguin": Praised for strong performances, especially by the lead's mother and the antagonist, enhancing the narrative connected to the Batman lore.

  Mark Medina [48:34]: "I did not expect his mom to steal the show. She is incredible."

• "What We Do in the Shadows": The panel shares their appreciation for the humor and character development, noting the show's ability to maintain quality across seasons.

  Sam Claiborne [50:01]: "I think this season's really good... It’s great."

• "Star Trek: Next Generation" Rewatch: Sam Claiborne reflects nostalgically on the classic series, emphasizing its blend of tight storytelling and endearing, albeit quirky, episodes.

  Sam Claiborne [53:02]: "Television is objectively better now than it was then."

Closing Thoughts on TV:

The discussion highlights the enduring charm of classic shows and the panel's personal favorites, showcasing their varied tastes and the lasting impact of well-crafted television narratives.

7. Video Game 20 Questions: An Attempt to Guess

In a playful segment, the hosts engage in Video Game 20 Questions, trying to guess a listener-suggested game. Despite their efforts, they struggle to identify the game, highlighting the challenge of guessing obscure or newly released titles.

Damon Hatfield [59:36]: "Viewers, listeners, if you have your own suggestions for video game 20 questions. Email them to me."

The game in question remains unresolved, adding a humorous and relatable moment for the audience.

8. Closing Remarks and Final Ads

As the episode winds down, the hosts briefly touch upon upcoming episodes and encourage listeners to submit their own game suggestions.

Damon Hatfield [74:23]: "That's all the scoops that we have for you this week. Thank you Sam. Thank you Justin. Thank you Mark. Thank you to Jobur and everyone else working behind the scenes to make this episode possible."

The episode concludes with a mix of lighthearted banter and final promotional segments, wrapping up a week of insightful gaming discussions.

Notable Quotes:

• Mark Medina [03:12]: "It's a tiny bit smaller. So for the viewers, if it were a regular PS5, the regular PS5 would probably be like right here. But it's way lighter."

• Mark Medina [05:15]: "Nothing like getting your brand new PS5 Pro and then booting up first-party game, Lego Horizon and being like performance or quality mode? I'm like, are you kidding me?"

• Sam Claiborne [39:52]: "They have created a new medium. They’ve made a new art form."

• Justin Davis [45:38]: "It's really, really flashy... it's got a Sega Genesis style soundtrack."

• Sam Claiborne [53:02]: "Television is objectively better now than it was then."

Conclusion

This episode of Game Scoop! offers a thorough exploration of the PlayStation 5 Pro, insights into new gaming releases like Tetris Forever and Xenotilt, and entertaining discussions on current television shows and gaming culture. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a casual enthusiast, the host panel provides valuable perspectives and engaging commentary to keep you informed and entertained in the ever-evolving world of gaming.