Game Scoop! Episode 798: "Ghosted By Yotei" Summary
Release Date: February 14, 2025
Hosts: Damon Hatfield
Guests: Sam Claiborne, Justin Davis, Mark Medina
Produced by: IGN & Geek Media
Introduction [01:48 - 02:11]
In Episode 798 of Game Scoop!, veteran hosts Damon Hatfield, Sam Claiborne, Justin Davis, and Mark Medina reunite to dissect the latest happenings in the gaming world. The episode kicks off with a brief overview of their recent engagements, setting the stage for an in-depth discussion on the latest PlayStation State of Play, game reviews, and a lively 20 Questions segment.
PlayStation State of Play Analysis [02:11 - 09:39]
Overview of the Event
The hosts delve into Sony's recent State of Play presentation, noting the impressive showcase of 27 games. However, a significant point of contention arises as "Ghost of Yotei"—highly anticipated by the community—is conspicuously absent. Damon remarks at [02:18], "Did get a bunch of release dates. We saw two games from 2026. There's some interesting stuff in here." The general sentiment among the panel suggests a mixed reception, with some feeling underwhelmed by the breadth of announcements.
Highlighting Key Titles
Mark Medina expresses particular enthusiasm for "Tides of Annihilation", highlighting its stunning visuals and star power: "It stars Jennifer English who played Shadow Heart and Baldur's Gate 3. Yeah, we're supposed to see more gameplay for that. It looks incredible." The discussion also covers "Darwin's Paradox", a new indie title from Konami that features an octopus protagonist navigating a visually captivating, puzzle-oriented gameplay experience.
Absence of Major Titles
A prevailing disappointment is the absence of "Ghost of Yotei" and the lack of updates on Death Stranding 2. Damon laments at [06:20], "Now midway through February... Did get a bunch of release dates. But there are zero Ghosts of Yotei shown in this state of play." The panel speculates on possible reasons, including Sony's strategic focus on showcasing a diverse array of genres.
Spotlight on "Saros" and Gaming Trends [09:39 - 21:33]
Introducing "Saros"
Mark Medina brings attention to "Saros", teased during the State of Play. Described as a follow-up to Returnal, "Saros" introduces new gameplay mechanics centered around permanent resources and progression. At [09:54], Mark explains, "The key gameplay distinction between Saros and Returnal is permanent resources and progression, making every death valuable." This feature ensures that each player's journey evolves, adding depth and replayability.
Ninja Games Flooding the Market
The conversation shifts to the surge of ninja-themed games slated for release in 2025. Damon humorously states at [11:00], "This is probably the highlight of the state of play for me. It's coming from Lizard Cube, which are the devs behind Streets of Rage 4." The panel debates the variety within the genre, debating whether these titles lean more towards traditional platformers or incorporate modern, dynamic elements.
Konami's "Darwin's Paradox"
Further exploration of Konami's offering, "Darwin's Paradox", reveals its unique blend of 2D platforming and puzzle-solving. Justin Davis remarks at [16:00], "It legit looks like it's inside inspired. That's what I said." The game's distinctive art style and engaging mechanics earn praise, positioning it as a standout among the new releases.
Game Review: "Elden Ring: Night Rain" [34:33 - 47:07]
Gameplay Experience
The episode transitions to a comprehensive review of "Elden Ring: Night Rain", a multiplayer iteration of the acclaimed Elden Ring. Mark Medina shares his positive experience, noting, "I played it. It's fun. If you love Elden Ring, there's going to be a lot to love here. It's a bit easier, so that's cool." The game introduces battle royale elements within a PvE framework, emphasizing cooperative play and strategic progression.
Mechanics and Features
Key features include:
- Leveling System: Players can upgrade their characters through runes, enhancing attributes rapidly to keep pace with evolving challenges.
- Relics: Upon completing rounds, players select relics that offer permanent upgrades, fostering a sense of continuous growth.
- Fast-Paced Action: The removal of stamina costs for sprinting ([36:27]) and the introduction of streamlined combat mechanics make the game more accessible without sacrificing depth.
Overall Impression
Damon concludes at [44:33], "I think the game's pretty damn fun. I do think it's worth it." The panel agrees that "Night Rain" successfully marries the challenging essence of Elden Ring with the engaging dynamics of multiplayer gameplay.
Game Review: "Avowed" [50:41 - 65:37]
Initial Impressions
Avowed, reviewed by IGN with a 7/10, receives mixed feedback from the hosts. Sam Claiborne describes a "rocky start" due to its linear and generic fantasy beginnings but acknowledges significant improvement as the game progresses ([50:54]).
Narrative and Side Quests
Mark Medina praises the game's side quests and world-building, likening it to titles from Obsidian like The Outer Worlds and Pillars of Eternity. He notes, "The side quests, they do kind of like intermingle," highlighting the game's cohesive narrative structure that intertwines main and side storylines seamlessly.
Gameplay Mechanics
Sam points out the completionist-driven mechanics, such as:
- Area Clearance: Once players eliminate all foes in an area, those enemies remain defeated, enhancing the feeling of accomplishment.
- Inventory Management: The game encourages efficient looting and resource management without overwhelming the player.
Mark adds, "It's a very Pillars of Eternity, Baldur's Gate thing," emphasizing the rich lore and immersive environment that fans of the series will appreciate.
Character Development and Interaction
The panel discusses the character interactions, noting some shallowness in early companions but appreciates the depth added as the story unfolds. Sam reflects, "It becomes that Fallout loop where you're like, I'm gonna go in this building, I'm gonna find all the junk inside."
Overall, the hosts recommend "Avowed" for its engaging progression and robust world-building, despite its initial narrative shortcomings.
Listener Interaction: 20 Questions Segment [66:57 - 87:04]
Game Identification Challenge
In the 20 Questions segment, the panel attempts to identify a Nintendo-published game from a listener's suggestion. The game in question is "Fortune Street", a board game integrating characters from the Mario and Dragon Quest franchises.
Process and Discovery
The hosts navigate through various clues and reach the conclusion that the game features an ensemble of beloved Nintendo characters, including Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Bowser, and Donkey Kong, along with characters from Dragon Quest. Damon humorously summarizes the discovery at [85:36], "Mario Luigi, Yoshi, Bowser Toad, Donkey Kong, Wario, Waluigi, Princess Daisy, Birdo, Diddy Kong, Bowser Jr., and Princess Peach. We're all in the game."
Guest Contributions
Mark Medina and Justin Davis share their nostalgic memories and humorous observations about "Fortune Street," appreciating its multiplayer dynamics and character crossovers. Sam Claiborne adds insights into the game's unique blend of board game mechanics and video game elements, reinforcing its appeal to fans of both genres.
Conclusion [87:04 - End]
As the episode winds down, Damon encourages listeners to submit their game suggestions for future episodes via email. The hosts extend their gratitude to each other and the behind-the-scenes team, wrapping up another engaging session of Game Scoop!.
Notable Quotes:
- Damon Hatfield [02:18]: "Did get a bunch of release dates. We saw two games from 2026. There's some interesting stuff in here."
- Mark Medina [03:49]: "It stars Jennifer English who played Shadow Heart and Baldur's Gate 3. Yeah, we're supposed to see more gameplay for that. It looks incredible."
- Mark Medina [09:54]: "The key gameplay distinction between Saros and Returnal is permanent resources and progression, making every death valuable."
- Sam Claiborne [50:54]: "It's a bit easier, so that's cool. Which makes sense. It's a multiplayer game. They're going to make it a tad easier."
- Justin Davis [66:00]: "I didn't even know there was a win or lose condition. I didn't know what it ended."
- Mark Medina [54:47]: "Every time an enemy dies, that enemy is dead. They are not coming back."
*For more detailed discussions and the latest in gaming news, subscribe to Game Scoop! on your preferred podcast platform or visit Geek.com.