Kinda Funny Games Daily: PlayStation Portal Gets a Huge Upgrade – Summary

Release Date: November 20, 2024

Hosts: Blessing Adeoye Jr., Tim Gettys, Greg “GameOverGreggy” Miller, Little Croy, Poppy Gettys

1. PlayStation Portal Receives Major Cloud Streaming Upgrade

Timestamp: 05:21

The episode kicks off with exciting news about the PlayStation Portal, which is undergoing a significant firmware update to introduce cloud streaming capabilities. According to Jordan Midler from Video Games Chronicle, the update will allow PlayStation Plus Premium members to stream a curated selection of 120 PS5 games directly to their Portal devices. Notable titles include Ghost of Tsushima, Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Monster Hunter Rise, and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart.

Tim Gettys expresses his enthusiasm:

“This is a major step and a huge step that wasn't necessarily expected... the fact that PlayStation has seen the success it has with the Portal, despite the initial market feedback, the sales are great for them.” (07:30)

The streaming service offers games in 1080p at 60fps, integrating all DualSense controller features such as haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. Tim adds that this update reinforces PlayStation’s commitment to the Portal, highlighting its role as a versatile add-on rather than a standalone device.

Blessing Adeoye Jr. reflects on the potential impact:

“For me, that makes a way. I'm way more likely now to bust out my Portal than I have been in the last year.” (12:21)

2. Xbox Expands Cloud Gaming to Include Owned Titles

Timestamp: 22:00

The discussion shifts to Xbox Cloud Gaming, where Xbox Wire announces that Game Pass Ultimate members can now stream select games they own outside the Game Pass catalog. This feature is rolling out in 28 countries and supports devices like Samsung Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV, and Meta Quest headsets. Titles include Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition.

Tim Gettys highlights the significance:

“This then becomes a new standard... it's a major step forward. I think this is huge because this then becomes a new standard.” (24:25)

The update aims to lower the barrier for entry into the PlayStation ecosystem by allowing users to access high-quality games without needing to purchase a PS5. However, there are concerns about the reliance on strong Wi-Fi connections for optimal performance.

3. Valve Eyes New Hardware: Steam Controller 2 and VR Controller

Timestamp: 35:11

Valve is reportedly developing a Steam Controller 2, codenamed Ibex, and a new VR controller named Roy. According to Rebecca Valentine from IGN, the Steam Controller 2 is expected to resemble a standard gamepad with redesigned trackpads and symmetrical analog sticks. Meanwhile, Roy is designed as a wand-shaped controller compatible with Valve’s rumored wireless Deckard VR headset.

Tim Gettys shares his skepticism:

“I don't have high hopes for this. No, no, not at all.” (35:11)

Despite his reservations, he acknowledges the potential for these controllers to bridge the gap between traditional gaming and VR experiences.

4. New Minecraft Movie Trailer Released

Timestamp: 39:03

The hosts review the newly released Minecraft movie trailer, noting mixed feelings. Mike likens parts of the trailer to the Mario movies, suggesting a familiar yet different approach.

Blessing Adeoye Jr. comments:

“If I was somebody who grew up on Minecraft, I could see some of the references hitting me.” (43:07)

While the trailer showcases the creative and block-building essence of Minecraft, Tim remains ambivalent, appreciating improvements over previous iterations but unsure about its universal appeal.

5. Final Fantasy XIV Announces Mobile Version

Timestamp: 45:02

Final Fantasy XIV is expanding to mobile platforms, developed by Tencent’s Lightspeed Studios. Kat Bailey from IGN reports that the mobile version aims to replicate the immersive MMO experience in a mobile-friendly format, incorporating features like fishing, chocobo racing, and Triple Triad. However, it's unclear if cross-progression or expansions will be supported.

Tim Gettys voices his concerns:

“This seems a little bit weird to me... without knowing some more answers there.” (46:34)

The hosts discuss the potential for cross-platform integration, emphasizing the importance of seamless progression between mobile and existing platforms to enhance the gaming experience.

6. Pokémon Go Utilizes Player Data to Train AI for Real-World Autocomplete

Timestamp: 49:20

Niantic, the developer behind Pokémon Go, is leveraging player data to train a large geospatial model (LGM) aimed at autocompleting real-world locations. This initiative uses data collected from players’ interactions with the game to enhance technologies such as AR glasses and robotics.

Blessing Adeoye Jr. expresses both fascination and concern:

“It's going to be big... if I wanted something smaller, say the tiniest news I need us to know about, where would I go?” (57:04)

The integration of AR in everyday life raises questions about privacy and data usage, with hosts debating the ethical implications of using player-generated data for broader technological advancements.

7. WE News: STALKER 2 Review Roundup and Other Updates

Timestamp: 59:31

In the WE News segment, the hosts provide a roundup of STALKER 2: Heart of Chernobyl reviews, noting a mixed reception with scores ranging from 74 on Metacritic to 83 from PC Gamer. Common criticisms include technical issues and bugs, while praise is directed towards the game's immersive world and emergent gameplay moments.

Blessing Adeoye Jr. remarks on the feedback:

“From the streets I’ve heard that STALKER 2, I’ve heard plenty of people, plenty of reviewers be like, ah, like, just frustrated... very buggy of a game.” (59:35)

Additionally, updates on Star Wars: The Old Republic and upcoming content releases are briefly discussed.

Conclusion and Sonic the Hedgehog Movie Buzz

As the episode wraps up, the hosts dive into the highly anticipated Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie. They analyze character posters featuring Ben Schwartz as Sonic, Keanu Reeves as Shadow, and Colleen O'Shaughnessy as Tails, highlighting the star-studded cast and elaborate costume designs.

Tim Gettys shares his excitement:

“We are one month away from Sonic the Hedgehog 3 in theaters.” (65:07)

The discussion includes playful banter about character dynamics and fan expectations, with the hosts eagerly anticipating the film’s release and its reception among both fans and newcomers.

Notable Quotes:

• Blessing Adeoye Jr. on PlayStation Portal’s potential:

  “I'm way more likely now to bust out my Portal than I have been in the last year.” (12:21)

• Tim Gettys on Xbox’s cloud gaming expansion:

  “This then becomes a new standard... it's a major step forward.” (24:25)

• Greg Miller humorously commenting on Starfield mods:

  “Finally made a questline. That's fucking awesome. Great job, modders out there.” (24:20)

• Tim Gettys on Valve’s new controllers:

  “I don't have high hopes for this. No, no, not at all.” (35:11)

Final Thoughts:

In this episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily, the hosts navigate through a range of exciting updates and discussions, from significant upgrades to gaming hardware and cloud services to the latest in movie adaptations and AI innovations. Their engaging dialogue, peppered with humor and insightful commentary, offers listeners a comprehensive overview of the current gaming landscape.

For those who missed the episode, this summary provides a thorough overview of the key points, ensuring you stay informed on the latest developments in the gaming world.