Kinda Funny Games Daily: Video Games News Podcast Episode: Report: Nintendo Direct in July, Donkey Kong Movie Happening
Release Date: July 14, 2025

1. Nintendo Direct Rumors

Timestamp: [06:50] - [09:40]

The hosts kick off the episode by discussing rumors surrounding an upcoming Nintendo Direct slated for July 2025. According to YouTuber Nate the Hate, as reported by Ollie Reynolds from Nintendo Life, a Nintendo Direct is anticipated to occur later this month, likely in the last week of July, just before Nintendo's earnings report on August 1st. Blessing Adeoye Jr. highlights the limited information available but emphasizes the excitement surrounding potential announcements.

Notable Quote:

• Blessing Adeoye Jr. [08:18]: "Speaking on his latest podcast episode, Nate states that a direct will take place after Donkey Kong Bonanza releases on July 17, 2025."

2. Donkey Kong Movie Announcement

Timestamp: [10:12] - [19:40]

The conversation shifts to exciting news about a Donkey Kong movie in collaboration with Universal Pictures. Blessing and Snowbike Mike express enthusiasm over the announcement, comparing it to the success of the Super Mario Bros. Movie. They speculate on the movie's potential direction, questioning whether it will incorporate classic characters like Candy Kong or introduce new elements to redefine Donkey Kong's cinematic presence.

Notable Quotes:

• Snowbike Mike [15:02]: "The idea of seeing Donkey Kong getting his own movie after what we just saw with the Mario Bros. Movie. Yeah, I'm totally in."
• Blessing Adeoye Jr. [17:30]: "I think Nintendo has to look at their roster of franchises and decide which ones deserve a movie."

3. Subnautica 2 Scandal

Timestamp: [24:26] - [34:01]

A major segment covers the ongoing controversy surrounding Subnautica 2, developed by Unknown Worlds and published by Krafton. Blessing provides a detailed breakdown of internal conflicts, including the ousting of key leadership from Unknown Worlds and conflicting statements between the developers and Krafton regarding the game's readiness and development progress. The discussion delves into leaked documents revealing disagreements over content volume and release timelines, highlighting the strain between creative teams and corporate expectations.

Notable Quotes:

• Snowbike Mike [32:34]: "While the game includes a variety of content, it currently lacks the freshness and volume expected of a sequel."
• Blessing Adeoye Jr. [34:01]: "There's a he-said, she-said scenario now. It's them trying to win the court of public opinion."

4. ZeniMax Union Statement

Timestamp: [43:20] - [44:03]

The podcast addresses the union's response to Microsoft's cancellation of an unannounced MMORPG developed by ZeniMax Online Studios (ZOSU). The union, Zosu CWA Workers United, explains that despite the project's cancellation, members retain their employment with full pay and benefits. They outline ongoing negotiations with Microsoft to ensure fair treatment and support for affected employees, emphasizing the community's loss and the importance of union advocacy in such situations.

Notable Quotes:

• Zosu Statement [27:00]: "Our union has stepped up to provide clarity and support."
• Blessing Adeoye Jr. [44:03]: "I just want the developers to have right done by them."

5. EA's Use of AI in Job Postings

Timestamp: [45:24] - [48:38]

The hosts discuss a controversy where a Microsoft employee used AI-generated artwork to advertise open positions on Xbox's graphics team. The image garnered criticism for its poor quality and the perceived insensitivity given the recent mass layoffs at Xbox. Blessing and Snowbike Mike express frustration over the timing and quality of the AI artwork, debating the broader implications of AI integration in creative processes and corporate communications.

Notable Quotes:

• Blessing Adeoye Jr. [46:32]: "Nobody's looking at this and questioning it."
• Snowbike Mike [46:37]: "We need to tighten up society because we're losing grip right now."

6. EA Halting the Need for Speed Franchise

Timestamp: [54:28] - [60:37]

EA faces backlash as reports emerge that the Need for Speed franchise is on hiatus. The podcast delves into the reasons behind the decision, including shifting resources to more lucrative projects like Battlefield. Blessing reminisces about past Need for Speed titles but acknowledges their decline in recent years. The hosts critique EA's management of the franchise, comparing it unfavorably to competitors like Forza Horizon and highlighting the challenges of sustaining interest in racing games amidst fierce competition.

Notable Quotes:

• Snowbike Mike [55:20]: "We're living in a Forza Horizon world where that dominates the spot."
• Blessing Adeoye Jr. [58:54]: "EA just did not know how to treat the Need for Speed franchise."

7. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater Deluxe Edition Easter Egg

Timestamp: [70:07] - [75:12]

The podcast highlights a new Easter egg in the Deluxe Edition of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3/4 remakes, which features a hidden SpongeBob SquarePants tribute accessible only to those who purchase the Deluxe version. While some listeners express frustration over the practice of locking content behind higher-priced editions, Blessing and Snowbike Mike debate the value and nostalgia associated with such unlockables. They lament the shift towards monetizing Easter eggs and secret content, contrasting it with earlier practices where such features were freely accessible.

Notable Quotes:

• Blessing Adeoye Jr. [65:04]: "You're hiding an Easter egg behind a Deluxe Edition of the game."
• Snowbike Mike [66:33]: "We're losing our way when it comes to microtransactions and fun unlockables."

8. We News Highlights

Timestamp: [73:06] - [75:12]

In the "We News" segment, the hosts celebrate the remarkable sales milestone of "Ransom Peak," which sold 5 million copies within a month of its launch. They also announce the official launch of the Gaming Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering LGBTQ+ professionals in the gaming industry.

Notable Quotes:

• Blessing Adeoye Jr. [70:48]: "This week marks the official launch of the Gaming Foundation..."
• Snowbike Mike [70:51]: "That is insane. Congratulations."

9. Listener Super Chats

Timestamp: Throughout the Episode

Throughout the episode, listeners engage via Super Chats, posing questions and sharing opinions. Topics range from suggestions for future game franchises (e.g., "Burnout" remasters) to discussions about the viability of Battlefield as an alternative to Call of Duty in the current market. The hosts interact dynamically with these inputs, providing their perspectives and fostering a community-driven conversation.

Notable Quotes:

• Blessing Adeoye Jr. [73:36]: "Would you play Eclipse video game? If you're saying it's like..."
• Snowbike Mike [75:12]: "Yes, back in the day it was an alternative and I really enjoyed that."

Conclusion

In this episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily, the hosts navigate through a series of significant gaming news, from the anticipation of a Nintendo Direct and the excitement over a Donkey Kong movie to the contentious developments surrounding Subnautica 2 and EA's dwindling Need for Speed franchise. They provide insightful commentary on industry practices, the impact of corporate decisions on beloved franchises, and the evolving role of AI in game development and marketing. Engaging with listener feedback, Blessing and Snowbike Mike ensure a lively and comprehensive discussion, making the episode informative for both regular followers and newcomers to the podcast.