Kinda Funny Games Daily: Video Games News Podcast – December 3, 2024

Hosts: Greg “GameOverGreggy” Miller, Tim Gettys, and Blessing Adeoye Jr.

Episode Overview

In this episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily, the hosts delve into several pivotal news stories shaping the gaming landscape. From FromSoftware's surprising stance on an Elden Ring sequel to the success of PlayStation's latest ventures, and emerging details about the Nintendo Switch 2, the discussion offers in-depth analysis and lively banter. Additionally, the podcast highlights the impressive revenue generated by the Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket, ensuring listeners are well-informed on the latest industry trends.

1. FromSoftware Not Considering Elden Ring 2

Timestamp: [00:02] – [18:58]

The episode kicks off with a major announcement from FromSoftware: the studio is not currently considering an Elden Ring sequel. This revelation comes directly from Hidetaka Miyazaki, FromSoftware’s president and the creative force behind iconic titles like Dark Souls and Bloodborne.

Key Points:

• Miyazaki discussed future projects during the PlayStation Partner Awards 2024, emphasizing a focus on diverse genres rather than expanding the Elden Ring universe.
• Despite ruling out an immediate sequel, FromSoftware remains open to developing the Elden Ring IP in other forms, such as movies or TV shows.
• The podcast hosts explore the implications of this decision, considering the tremendous success of Elden Ring and the potential business motivations behind exploring new projects.

Notable Quotes:

• Tim Gettys [11:32]: "The success of Elden Ring was such a hurdle to get over for how big the game is. How it took the Souls franchise and made it a much bigger open RPG and found success with that."
• Snowbike Mike [16:23]: "But then you got to put a new name on the box. You have to have the logo there. And then they would go, oh, I’ve trusted that name. I’m going to go for that. Is that as appealing as just slapping two on this and going forth with it?"

Discussion Highlights:

• The hosts debate whether FromSoftware should capitalize on the Elden Ring brand with a sequel or diversify their portfolio to sustain long-term creativity and market presence.
• They reflect on FromSoftware’s history of evolving their game genres and speculate on potential new directions the studio might take.

2. Success of PlayStation Portal and Astrobot

Timestamp: [11:30] – [38:11]

Next, the podcast shifts focus to PlayStation’s recent successes, notably the PlayStation Portal and the game Astrobot. Both products have received positive reception, marking significant achievements for PlayStation amid a year of both highs and lows.

Key Points:

• PlayStation Portal: Originally a device for streaming games from the PS5, it is now expanding to include a beta program for direct cloud streaming, enhancing its versatility.
• Astrobot: Celebrated as a surprise hit, Astrobot has resonated well with players, contrasting with the failure of the Concord shooter game.
• PlayStation executives emphasize the importance of balancing AI integration with the preservation of human creativity in game development.

Notable Quotes:

• Snowbike Mike [14:48]: "I think a lot of the audience quickly jumps to the big three in my mind, which is the follow-up to Armored Core, the follow-up to Sekiro, and the follow-up to Bloodborne."
• Tim Gettys [17:48]: "If I was FromSoftware, I don't want to be exclusive. You want to be multi-platform. You want to be in as many places as possible because you want your game to sell like hotcakes."

Discussion Highlights:

• The contrast between the successful Astrobot and the unsuccessful Concord highlights the importance of aligning game development with player expectations and the PlayStation brand.
• The hosts discuss the potential future of PlayStation’s hardware and software offerings, praising the innovative direction while acknowledging areas for improvement.

3. Leaks of Nintendo Switch 2 Accessories

Timestamp: [38:11] – [43:47]

The conversation then turns to Nintendo, where accessories for the highly anticipated Switch 2 have reportedly leaked through Chinese vendors. These leaks suggest significant upgrades, including a larger screen and more substantial console dimensions.

Key Points:

• Accessories such as cases and screen protectors indicate a chunkier design compared to the current Switch models.
• While these leaks are treated with skepticism, the hosts agree that accessory production ahead of an official release is standard practice in the tech industry.
• The discussion touches on the importance of portability and versatility in modern gaming consoles, drawing parallels with the success of the Nintendo Switch.

Notable Quotes:

• Tim Gettys [40:27]: "Another great example is Legos kind of spoiling moments from upcoming movies because sets and they've essentially had to come up with like weird things that aren't even in the movie just to kind of get around it and be more themed in vibes."
• Snowbike Mike [43:20]: "As a casual fan, I know that they're making a Switch 2. I'm at the point we know that's reality. Just show me it and then we'll, once it becomes real, then I’m ready to buy."

Discussion Highlights:

• The hosts express excitement about the potential features of the Switch 2, emphasizing the demand for handheld gaming and cloud streaming capabilities.
• They speculate on Nintendo’s strategic plans and how the Switch 2 could compete with other handheld consoles like the Steam Deck.

4. Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket's Revenue Surge

Timestamp: [43:47] – [50:02]

The podcast highlights the impressive financial performance of Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket, which reportedly surpassed $200 million in revenue within its first month.

Key Points:

• The mobile adaptation achieved an average of 6.5 million in daily player spending, peaking at 8.4 million during a major event.
• Week three saw the game reach its highest weekly earnings at $51.1 million, slightly declining to $49.7 million in week four.
• The success is attributed to effective monetization strategies, nostalgic appeal, and engaging gameplay mechanics.

Notable Quotes:

• Tim Gettys [45:18]: "What it comes down to is when they first announced this at Pokemon Day earlier this year in February, the moment that we saw it, it's like, oh, it's their Marvel snapping Pokemon Trading Card Game. That inherently makes sense."
• Snowbike Mike [48:35]: "There has to be something to get people excited or battle and get more cards similar to the Venusaur and Lapras event. Make me PvP battle for that card of the week."

Discussion Highlights:

• The hosts discuss the balance between collecting and battling mechanics, suggesting enhancements to keep players engaged and incentivized to spend.
• They compare the game's strategies to other successful trading card games like Magic: The Gathering Arena and Marvel Snap, debating potential improvements to sustain long-term growth.

5. Additional News Briefs

Timestamp: [50:02] – [62:43]

Beyond the main stories, the podcast touches on several smaller yet noteworthy updates:

• Xbox Game Pass: New additions include titles like Crash Team Racing Nitro Fueled, Forza Motorsport Standard Hanti, EA Sports WRC, and upcoming releases like Indiana Jones Circle 1210 and Carry On.

• Tetris and Gex Trilogy: Tetris: The Grandmaster 4 Absolute Eye is launching on Steam in March 2025, while the Gex Trilogy faces delays until 2025.

• Collector’s Editions and Unboxings: The hosts showcase the Indiana Jones Great Circle Collector’s Edition, highlighting its elaborate packaging and exclusive items.

• Audio Reactions: Greg Miller and Mike engage in a lively unboxing segment, providing humorous commentary on the collector’s items.

Notable Quotes:

• Greg Miller [54:08]: "For your next adventure, Marion." (Referring to the adventure journal included in the collector’s edition.)
• Snowbike Mike [56:31]: "It's tough to get the second layer of hype a year and a half later to be like Tim, now you got to buy it, now is your turn."

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The episode wraps up with the hosts reflecting on the day's discussions, emphasizing the dynamic nature of the gaming industry and the continuous evolution of player expectations. They encourage listeners to stay engaged with Kinda Funny Games Daily for ongoing coverage and analysis of the latest gaming news.

Final Quote:

• Tim Gettys [62:29]: "Nothing. We're perfect. Me and you Mike. Fantastic people."

Notable Quotes Summary

• Tim Gettys [11:32]: "The success of Elden Ring was such a hurdle to get over for how big the game is."
• Snowbike Mike [16:23]: "But then you got to put a new name on the box. Is that as appealing as just slapping two on this and going forth with it?"
• Snowbike Mike [14:48]: "I think a lot of the audience quickly jumps to the big three in my mind..."
• Tim Gettys [17:48]: "If I was FromSoftware, I don’t want to be exclusive. You want to be multi-platform."
• Tim Gettys [40:27]: "Another great example is Legos kind of spoiling moments from upcoming movies..."
• Snowbike Mike [43:20]: "As a casual fan, I know that they're making a Switch 2..."
• Tim Gettys [45:18]: "What it comes down to is when they first announced this at Pokemon Day..."
• Snowbike Mike [48:35]: "There has to be something to get people excited or battle and get more cards..."

Final Note

For a comprehensive and entertaining dive into the latest in gaming news, be sure to listen to this episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily. Whether you're a dedicated fan of FromSoftware titles, a PlayStation enthusiast, or eagerly awaiting the next Nintendo release, this podcast episode offers valuable insights and engaging discussions to keep you informed and entertained.

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Disclaimer: The information presented in this summary is based on the provided transcript and may not cover all details discussed in the podcast.