Kinda Funny Games Daily: Video Games News Podcast Episode: Fallout 5 is Reportedly Fully Greenlit
Hosts: Greg “GameOverGreggy” Miller & Andy Cortez
Release Date: July 15, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily, hosts Greg Miller and Andy Cortez delve into the latest happenings in the gaming world. From the exciting news about Fallout 5 being fully greenlit to discussions about upcoming Pokemon announcements and The Last of Us Season 2's Emmy nominations, the duo covers a broad spectrum of topics. Amidst their insightful conversations, they also share amusing anecdotes and engage with listener super chats.

Fallout 5 Greenlit

Timestamp: [27:37] - [17:09]

Greg Miller: “Fallout 5 is now reportedly fully greenlit. This is Cameron Koch over at GameSpot.com/Fallout 5 has reportedly been officially greenlit and development is going forward.”

Greg and Andy explore the implications of Fallout 5 securing full greenlight status. Drawing from Jez Corden’s report on the Xbox Two Podcast, they discuss Microsoft's strategic shift to invest in established IPs like Fallout over new ventures such as Project Blackbird, ZeniMax Online's unannounced MMO.

Andy Cortez: “It’s a no-brainer. This is part of a bigger equation where Microsoft is focusing on big IPs to ensure surefire wins rather than gambling on crowded markets.”

They highlight the potential impact on ZeniMax Online, noting the cancellation of Project Blackbird due to the high costs and fierce competition in the MMO sector.

Greg Miller: “MMOs are incredibly hard to do and a very large investment. Even Fallout 76 had its challenges, so focusing on a standalone single-player RPG like Fallout 5 is a more secure bet.”

Project Blackbird Cancellation

Timestamp: [17:09] - [23:16]

The conversation shifts to Microsoft's decision to cancel Project Blackbird, ZeniMax Online’s next MMO project.

Andy Cortez: “The cancellation is heartbreaking for developers who've been working on it since 2018. It’s a sci-fi third-person shooter with an MMO twist, which sounded promising.”

Greg Miller: “This reflects a broader industry trend where companies prioritize existing franchises over new, unproven projects. It also raises concerns about job security within studios when AI tools begin to replace human roles.”

Pokemon Presents Tease

Timestamp: [29:12] - [38:05]

The hosts transition to lighter news about Pokemon, discussing the upcoming Pokemon Presents stream scheduled for July 22.

Greg Miller: “The Pokemon Company released a teaser image of Pikachu in front of DJ decks, hinting at some exciting announcements next week.”

Andy Cortez: “I'm pumped for new Pokemon announcements, especially with the anticipation around Zah.”

They speculate on potential reveals and express enthusiasm for new game features and Pokemon characters, sharing their favorite starters and evolutions.

Greg Miller: “I’m excited to see Quaxly’s evolution. It’s adorable, even if the middle evolution didn’t quite hit the mark.”

The Last of Us Season 2 Emmy Nominations

Timestamp: [41:09] - [44:38]

Greg shares news about The Last of Us Season 2 receiving 17 Emmy nominations, slightly fewer than the first season but still a significant achievement.

Greg Miller: “Pedro Pascal was nominated for Best Actor for his portrayal of Joel, despite limited screen time. Bella Ramsey also received a nomination for Best Actress as Ellie.”

Andy Cortez: “It's impressive seeing the show gain recognition, especially since some fans were divided over the latest episodes.”

They commend the performances and production quality, acknowledging the show's impact and the growing fandom.

Removal of John Wick Hex Game

Timestamp: [44:38] - [55:45]

The episode covers the surprising news that John Wick Hex, the only official John Wick game, is being delisted from all platforms.

Greg Miller: “John Wick Hex will no longer be available for purchase after July 17, 2025. Existing owners can still access it, but new purchases are halted.”

Andy Cortez: “It’s odd since this is the sole John Wick game out there. Licensing issues must be at play.”

They discuss the implications for the game's legacy, especially considering Mike Biffle's connection to the project and its unique position in the gaming market.

Donkey Kong Bonanza Performance Issues

Timestamp: [55:45] - [58:43]

Greg Miller: “Nintendo acknowledges some performance drops in Donkey Kong Bonanza but emphasizes that fun and playability were prioritized during development.”

Andy Cortez: “As long as the performance issues aren’t consistent and the gameplay remains smooth, minor hitches might be acceptable to players.”

They analyze the technical challenges of integrating voxel technology and effects like hit stop and slow motion, which can occasionally strain system performance.

King Layoffs and AI Replacement

Timestamp: [58:43] - [55:45]

One of the most poignant discussions centers around Microsoft’s layoffs at King, the developer behind Candy Crush Saga. Approximately 200 employees have been let go, with AI tools replacing roles in level design and copywriting.

Andy Cortez: “This is the kind of story that terrifies us. AI is replacing human creativity, and it’s happening right now.”

Greg Miller: “It reflects a broader industry trend where corporations prioritize cost-cutting over valuing their creative workforce. Introducing AI tools may save money but undermines the human element essential for game development.”

They express concern over the future of creative industries, emphasizing the loss of jobs and the diminishing role of human creativity in game design.

Additional News Items

Timestamp: [58:43] - [67:00]

Greg and Andy briefly touch upon several other news items, including:

• Guild Wars 2 announcing its next expansion, Visions of Eternity, set for October 28.
• Destiny 2’s Edge of Fate expansion release.
• Upcoming releases such as Frost Haven, Asteroid Requiem, and updates to Cyberpunk 2077.

They provide quick takes and personal opinions on each, maintaining the episode’s dynamic and engaging tone.

Super Chats Highlights

Timestamp: [63:04] - [66:52]

The hosts engage with their audience through various super chats, addressing listener comments and questions. Highlights include:

• Game Master Bob: Promotes Thunderfolk and Frost Haven.
• Benny B. Goode: Comments on Ford's handling of Pokemon starters.
• Fredo can't read: Seeks help with a locked PlayStation account, leading to comedic attempts by Greg to assist.

These interactions add a personal and community-driven layer to the episode, showcasing the hosts' rapport with their listeners.

Conclusion

Greg and Andy wrap up the episode by reiterating the key news items and encouraging listeners to engage with their content across various platforms. They emphasize the importance of staying informed and connected within the gaming community, even as the industry faces significant changes and challenges.

Greg Miller: “The world's fun falling apart, but we're happy to be here to hopefully be a distraction for it every day with you as we talk about video games and all the nerdy news you need to know about.”

Notable Quotes:

• Greg Miller [27:37]: “Fallout 5 is now reportedly fully greenlit. Development is going forward.”
• Andy Cortez [55:45]: “This is the kind of story that terrifies us. AI is replacing human creativity, and it’s happening right now.”
• Greg Miller [41:09]: “Pedro Pascal was nominated for Best Actor for his portrayal of Joel, despite limited screen time.”

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the July 15, 2025, episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily, providing listeners and non-listeners alike with a thorough overview of the key discussions and insights shared by Greg Miller and Andy Cortez.