The Last of Us Season 2 Review Roundup

The episode kicks off with an in-depth discussion on the latest reviews for HBO's adaptation of The Last of Us Season 2. Rotten Tomatoes currently holds the season at a 93% approval rating, a slight drop from the 96% of the first season. The hosts delve into various critical perspectives:

• Simon Carty at IGN (12:42): Rated the season 7 out of 10, emphasizing the challenges of adapting a complex video game narrative into a serialized TV format. Carty praises the production quality and performances but feels the storytelling pace and key events don't fully capture the game's impactful moments.

  "It's incredibly well made, often looks gorgeous, and is packed full of stellar performances. But the storytelling devices and choices made... ultimately not delivering the striking effect the story's undeniable, shocking events should." — Simon Carty, IGN [12:42]

• Angie Han at The Hollywood Reporter (12:46): Provided an unscored review, highlighting the show's ability to engage viewers by making them ponder character motivations and the overarching lore. However, Han expresses a sense of anticlimax, suggesting that many questions are left unresolved, hinting at more developments in future seasons.

  "By the time the season two finale has Ellie chasing after one group of people, we don't really know whose motives and goals remain opaque to us." — Angie Han, The Hollywood Reporter [12:46]

• John Nugent at Empire (12:55): Gave the season a glowing five-star rating, describing it as "moving and devastating," and proclaiming it as the pinnacle of post-apocalyptic television.

The hosts, Tim Gettys and Blessing Adeoye Jr., reflect on these reviews, discussing the inherent difficulties in translating a video game's narrative depth and structure into a multi-season TV series. They express curiosity about how the adaptation will continue to evolve, especially concerning character development and plot progression in upcoming seasons.

Hades 2 Exclusive on Nintendo Switch 2

A significant point of contention arises with the announcement that Hades 2 will launch as a Nintendo Switch 2 console exclusive. This decision has stirred debate among fans and the hosts alike:

• Tim Gettys voices strong disapproval, stating:

  "I don't like this. I feel like once the floodgates open up, you've released Hades on PlayStation and Xbox, release the sequel everywhere." — Tim Gettys [24:33]

• Blessing Adeoye Jr. questions the rationale behind Nintendo's exclusivity, pondering whether it's a strategic business move to secure funding or a genuine attempt to strengthen their console's library.

The discussion touches upon the broader implications of exclusivity deals in the gaming industry, with concerns about limiting access for fans on other platforms. They debate whether this strategy benefits Nintendo or if it hampers the game's potential reach and success.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-order Delays in Canada

The hosts address the delay of Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders in Canada, aligning them with the United States schedule. Originally set for April 9th, the Canadian launch has been postponed without a new date announcement.

• Tim Gettys sarcastically remarks on the discrepancy between the Canadian and American release schedules, expressing frustration over the inconsistency:

  "You all got Nintendo up there, Moose. You're all part of the problem." — Tim Gettys [34:26]

• Blessing Adeoye Jr. empathizes with Canadian fans, likening the situation to dealing with overly polite yet obstructive neighbors affected by decisions from the United States.

The conversation highlights the logistical challenges and fan frustrations stemming from staggered release dates, emphasizing the desire for a unified global launch.

Mother 3 Potential Western Release

The episode covers an interview with Nate Bildorf, Senior Vice President of Product Development and Publishing at Nintendo of America, regarding fans' persistent requests for Mother 3 in the West.

• Nintendo Life inquires about the possibility of releasing Mother 3 outside Japan. Bildorf deflects, stating:

  "That's certainly not something I can answer for Nintendo... Do you think that there's value in that?" — Nate Bildorf, Nintendo of America [36:17]

• Blessing Adeoye Jr. expresses hope for a future Western release, noting the positive reception of similar games like Starfy on Nintendo Switch Online as potential indicators.

The hosts discuss Nintendo's cautious approach to releasing region-locked classics and the community's efforts to demonstrate demand through gameplay and fan engagement.

Silent Hill F Steam Deck Compatibility

Silent Hill F has been rated as Steam Deck playable, albeit with some manual configuration required for optimal performance.

• Blessing Adeoye Jr. finds the timing of this compatibility update peculiar, speculating it might indicate an upcoming release or significant update for the game.

• Tim Gettys agrees, noting that such compatibility often precedes major announcements, although no concrete information has been provided.

This update is seen as a positive development for Silent Hill fans eager to experience the game on portable devices.

BDS Movement Targets Microsoft Xbox

A Palestinian-led BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) movement has added Microsoft's Xbox to its list of priority boycott targets.

• The movement accuses Microsoft of collaborating with the Israeli military by providing Azure Cloud and AI services, which they claim support Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip.

• Ian Walker at Polygon reports that the BDS National Committee emphasizes Microsoft's role in what they describe as the "genocide and apartheid regime" of Israel.

The hosts briefly discuss the impact of such political movements on major corporations and the gaming community's response to these boycotts.

Other News and Updates

• Sonic Rumble is set to launch on May 8th for PC and mobile, though Blessing Adeoye Jr. expresses lukewarm excitement due to its mobile platform nature.

• Donkey Kong Bonanza remains shrouded in mystery, with Nintendo Life failing to provide concrete details despite interviews with Nate Bildorf. Fans continue to speculate about the game's development team and possible features.

• PlayStation Concerts in Europe are reportedly being canceled, leading to disappointment among fans anticipating live gaming events.

• Disney's Illusion Island officially appeared on the PlayStation Store with a May 30th release date, much to the hosts' delight.

• Brass Line Entertainment has laid off at least 13 employees, raising concerns about the future of their rumored Wu Tang Clan action RPG.

• Silent Hill F's compatibility with Steam Deck was discussed, highlighting the need for manual graphic settings adjustments but confirming full controller functionality.

• The hosts encourage listeners to participate in community activities, such as playing Starfy and Earthbound to support the potential Western release of Mother 3.

Listener Interactions and Super Chats

Throughout the episode, the hosts engage with listener super chats, addressing questions and comments about game recommendations, pronunciations, and personal anecdotes. Notable interactions include:

• Gunslinger D: Recommends Blueprints on the Steam Deck, praising its compatibility and gameplay simplicity.

  "1,000%. It works really well on the deck." — Gunslinger D [51:21]

• Bondiesel: Suggests that consistent, unbiased commentators would enhance the gaming discourse.

• Joker Juke: Shares insights from attending the Switch to Paris experience, revealing limited information about Donkey Kong Bonanza development:

  "We put together a documentary about Earthbound and Mother." — Joker Juke [49:14]

Conclusion

The episode concludes with the hosts reiterating their enthusiasm for upcoming content, encouraging community participation in gaming events, and expressing gratitude to their listeners for their support. They emphasize the importance of transparency and passion within the gaming industry while navigating the complexities of exclusive releases and political movements affecting major corporations.

Notable Quotes

• Simon Carty, IGN (12:42):

  "It's incredibly well made, often looks gorgeous, and is packed full of stellar performances. But the storytelling devices and choices made... ultimately not delivering the striking effect the story's undeniable, shocking events should."

• Angie Han, The Hollywood Reporter (12:46):

  "By the time the season two finale has Ellie chasing after one group of people, we don't really know whose motives and goals remain opaque to us."

• John Nugent, Empire (12:55):

  "Moving and devastating in equal doses, the Last of Us remains post-apocalyptic television at its peak."

• Tim Gettys (24:33):

  "I don't like this. I feel like once the floodgates open up, you've released Hades on PlayStation and Xbox, release the sequel everywhere."

• Nate Bildorf, Nintendo of America (36:17):

  "That's certainly not something I can answer for Nintendo... Do you think that there's value in that?"

• Gunslinger D (51:21):

  "1,000%. It works really well on the deck."

These quotes encapsulate the critical assessments and emotional responses surrounding The Last of Us Season 2, the exclusive launch of Hades 2, and ongoing discussions about game accessibility and corporate decisions within the gaming landscape.