Kinda Funny Games Daily: Video Games News Podcast Episode: Nintendo Switch 2 Reveal Reportedly This Week
Release Date: January 13, 2025

1. Nintendo Switch 2 Reveal Report

Timestamp: [06:24]

The episode kicks off with exciting news about the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. According to Andy Robinson at VGC and corroborated by sources like Nate the Hate, Nintendo is set to reveal the Switch 2 on Thursday, January 16th, 2025. The reveal is expected to focus primarily on the new hardware, with a software showcase slated for February or March.

Tim Geddes expresses his excitement and anticipation:

"I'm hoping that somehow there is OLED in this. Whether it's two SKUs or if they just fucking do the right thing and just put it out. But I think that the dream's not dead anymore." [09:08]

Snowbike Mike adds:

"Let's get hyped. Let's go overboard here. Tim." [13:44]

Discussion Highlights:

• Hardware Focus: The initial reveal will concentrate on the console's technical advancements, potentially introducing OLED displays.
• Software Showcase: A follow-up event will likely highlight upcoming games, including anticipated titles like a new Mario Kart and 3D Mario.
• Launch Timing: Expected to launch in May or June 2025, aligning with the release of new Mario titles during the holiday period.

2. Dynasty Warriors Origins Reviews

Timestamp: [21:27]

Transitioning to game reviews, the hosts discuss the positive reception of Dynasty Warriors Origins. Garnering an 81 on Metacritic and 82 on Open Critic, the game is praised for revitalizing the long-running series with enhanced combat mechanics and storytelling.

Tim Geddes summarizes the critical acclaim:

"Origins is meant to be a new beginning. It doesn't just have the largest amount of enemies the series has thrown on screen at once, it also deepens its combat, improves its storytelling..." [21:29]

Snowbike Mike shares his personal enthusiasm:

"I've been playing pre-release. I've been excited about it. I've only played a little bit. So it's cool to see the reviews really shining on this." [22:48]

Key Points:

• Enhanced Combat: Incorporates mechanics reminiscent of Elden Ring, adding depth with dashes, parries, and counterattacks.
• Storytelling: Features a compelling ensemble cast that enriches the narrative without hindering the action.
• Replayability: Offers significant post-game content and multiple playthrough options, appealing to both newcomers and veterans.

3. PlayStation's Smash Brothers-Inspired MOBA

Timestamp: [29:40]

A surprising announcement reveals that Bungie’s upcoming mobile title, Gummy Bears, is taking inspiration from the Smash Brothers franchise. Initially perceived as a traditional MOBA, further details suggest a unique twist aimed at a younger audience with a more vibrant art style.

Tim Geddes expresses skepticism:

"This is whack is what I thought about. See and I. I was lost at first." [30:46]

Snowbike Mike analyzes the potential market impact:

"That reminds me of Brawl Stars. All the young kids right now and middle school and beyond are playing Brawl Stars." [31:40]

Discussion Highlights:

• Game Design: Described as a team-based competitive MOBA with percentage-based health systems and the ability to knock players off the map.
• Target Audience: Aims for a younger demographic, distinguishing itself from traditional, more competitive MOBAs like League of Legends.
• Market Viability: Concerns about whether a MOBA inspired by Smash Brothers can capture a substantial audience, given the high competition and existing player bases in titles like Brawl Stars and Pokemon Unite.

4. Microsoft Bringing Xbox Franchises to PS5

Timestamp: [37:37]

In a surprising strategic move, Microsoft is expanding its Xbox franchises to Sony’s PS5. Titles such as Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, Halo: The Master Chief Collection, Gears of War 1 Ultimate Edition, and Hellblade 2 are slated for release on Sony’s console.

Tim Geddes comments on the business implications:

"This is the right business move. This is the move. This is what we'll see in the future for them." [40:28]

Snowbike Mike adds enthusiasm:

"Congrats. That's gonna be fun." [56:18]

Key Points:

• Franchise Expansion: Bringing established titles to a new platform aims to bolster sales and expand the Xbox brand.
• Nostalgia Factor: Remasters like Gears of War 1 and the Master Chief Collection leverage nostalgia to attract both old and new players.
• Strategic Timing: Coincides with significant anniversaries (e.g., Halo’s 25th anniversary), enhancing promotional efforts and community engagement.

5. Studio Closures in 2025

Timestamp: [37:37]

The podcast addresses the somber news of several studio closures and layoffs within the gaming industry. Notable closures include Toadman Interactive, Free Jam, and Counterplay Games, the latter known for developing Godfall.

Snowbike Mike reflects on industry challenges:

"It's very difficult to be like, oh, I'm gonna really root this on when I know this isn't really probably Bungie's roots." [33:50]

Tim Geddes emphasizes the harsh realities:

"It's getting tougher and tougher out there. So, yeah, definitely very sad to be reporting news like this as often as we do." [42:47]

Discussion Highlights:

• Economic Pressures: High development costs and increased competition make sustaining studios challenging.
• Impact on Staff: Significant layoffs and closures affect thousands, highlighting the volatility within the gaming sector.
• Industry Trends: Reflects broader trends of consolidation and the difficulty of meeting both internal and external expectations.

6. WE News: Quick Updates

Timestamp: [43:08]

The hosts provide a series of brief updates under the "WE News" segment, covering various smaller news items in the gaming world.

• Nintendo Alarmo: Remains a Nintendo Switch Online exclusive until mid-March, with selected retailers offering it post-release.

Barrett Courtney muses on the product:

"It's kind of got the Wii in there too." [19:36]

• Star Wars Episode 1 – Jedi Power Battles: A playable character, Jar Jar Binks, is added as a surprise element.

Tim Geddes shares excitement:

"Look at Jar Jar go. It might be okay." [47:17]

• Candy Crush Solitaire Launch: Scheduled for February 6th on Mobile.

Snowbike Mike quips:

"Candy Crush just got moms and dads everywhere out there." [48:55]

• Power Wash Simulator VR Ending Support: Signals challenges in maintaining VR game support.

Snowbike Mike remarks:

"That's too bad. Well, you think that's just the ultimate win right there." [48:59]

7. User Super Chats and Interactions

Timestamp: [55:32]

Engaging with their audience, the hosts read and respond to various super chats submitted by listeners.

• Kyle LaBouf inquires about interactions with Capcom's community manager regarding Animusha.

Tim Geddes responds positively:

"They have DM to me. They're just saying, hey, we'll keep in touch at some point. But like, very exciting stuff." [55:32]

• Diego suggests sending Mike to Summer Games Done Quick, highlighting community involvement.

Snowbike Mike enthusiastically agrees:

"Let's reach out, see if I can read donations late at night. Make it happen." [56:52]

• Hero of Time announces starting a master's program, receiving congratulations from the hosts.

Tim Geddes extends warm wishes:

"That's awesome." [57:32]

8. Teasing Game of the Year Segment

Timestamp: [60:37]

As the episode nears its conclusion, the hosts build anticipation for their upcoming Game of the Year segment. They promise an extensive discussion featuring a panel of industry veterans and fans.

Tim Geddes invites listeners:

"We're about to sit at this table and go through our top 10 games of the year. We do not know what they are. We're going to find out as y'all do." [60:33]

Snowbike Mike echoes the excitement:

"About to hear Final Fantasy. We haven't even talked Final Fantasy later." [60:37]

Conclusion

This episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily offers a comprehensive dive into the latest gaming news, from the imminent reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2 to critical reviews of new titles and strategic moves by major companies like Microsoft. The hosts provide insightful commentary, engage with their audience through super chats, and set the stage for an exciting Game of the Year discussion, ensuring listeners are well-informed and entertained.