Kinda Funny Games Daily – January 7, 2026

"Xbox 2026 Predictions" with Greg Miller & Gary Whitta

Episode Overview

On this episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily, hosts Greg “GameOverGreggy” Miller and games industry veteran Gary Whitta ring in the new year with an in-depth discussion about Xbox’s future in 2026, major video game news, and Gary’s latest self-made audio project. The show dives deep on Xbox’s uncertain hardware and content plans, the implications of unionization at Ubisoft Halifax, excitement (and skepticism) around new hardware like the Lenovo Legion Go2, and more. As always, expect a lively mix of speculation, wit, and candid industry insight.

Major Segments & Timestamps

[13:13] — Show Start & Banter: Holidays and Gary’s new audio show
[15:14] — The Roper Report: News Rundown
[15:38] — Main Topic: Xbox in 2026 – Predictions, Leaks, and Future Prospects
[41:00] — Sponsor Break
[42:07] — Ubisoft Halifax Closures and Unionization
[49:00] — New Hardware: Lenovo Legion Go2 with SteamOS
[53:00] — "We News" Lightning Round: Small stories (PS5 accessories, Discord IPO, indie games)
[58:33] — Community Super Chats & Q&A
[66:45] — Show Wrap-up & Gary’s Audio Project "See You in Hell"

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Reflecting on the Holidays & Gary’s Projects ([01:13] – [13:13])

Greg and Gary catch up after the holidays, lamenting the post-festive clean-up—“Putting the tree up is the excitement of the season… Infinitely worse taking the tree down than putting it up.” (Greg, [02:49])
Gary gives a heartfelt background on his new audio comedy "See You in Hell," venting frustrations about the "absolute fucking shit show" that is the current Hollywood industry ([04:33]).
He highlights the impressive cast (Shannon Woodward, John Boyega, Alex Winter, John Cryer), all working for free during Hollywood’s ongoing slowdown ([05:40] – [09:51]).
Gary discusses plans for more episodes, contingent on the pilot’s success and potential crowdfunding.

2. Xbox 2026: What’s Next? ([15:38] – [41:00])

Headlined by “The Four Horsemen” ([15:38]):

According to Windows Central leaks, Xbox’s 2026 first-party push features Fable, Gears of War: E-Day, Halo Campaign Evolved, and Forza Horizon 6—referred to internally as "the Four Horsemen" ([15:38]).
Microsoft is expected to showcase these at the soon-to-be-annual Xbox Developer Direct.

Fallout Speculation & Remasters:

Hype surrounds a mysterious Amazon countdown tied to Fallout, spurring speculation about a Fallout 3 or New Vegas remaster ([19:02]).
Jez Corden’s report suggests Fallout 3 remake is planned, alongside Fallout 5 being greenlit.

Hardware and Platform Shift:

Leaks indicate Microsoft may reveal new hardware—like the Elite Controller Series 3—and possibly show off controllers with “direct to Wi-Fi” connectivity, minimizing Bluetooth latency ([19:02]).
The bigger question: Will Xbox pivot away from traditional consoles toward PC hybrid devices or even become more like a publisher?

Candid Industry Analysis ([20:26]):

Gary: "I have generally, like I've always said before, I'm platform agnostic… But in terms of like the long, the long game, I have found myself… hedging my bets a little bit." ([20:35])
He and Greg debate whether Xbox will follow Sega’s route (exit hardware, focus on publishing) or bet on a premium PC/Xbox hybrid box ([22:35], [23:11]).
Greg doubts the viability of Xbox’s rumored pricey “hybrid PC” hardware, citing rising component costs: "Nobody heard the details… They just saw the price go up…" ([24:11])
Gary envisions a “Steam Machine Verified” future, where locked-down hardware specs make PC gaming more ‘console-like’ ([27:10]).
Both express skepticism that premium hybrid hardware will dethrone cheaper, more flexible Steam Deck-style devices.

AI & Strategy Concerns:

Greg: "Microsoft shoving AI into everything… Closing up studios… pinching pennies… It’s them putting pressure on Phil and his team to deviate from what they've already done." ([24:11])
AI is seen as an inevitability, with both hosts sharing skepticism about how it’s integrated into gaming and productivity tools—“Literally everyone says 'we don't want that.' And they [Microsoft] go, 'got it, more AI.'" (Gary, [32:48])
Gary remains convinced there’s at least one successful possible path for Xbox, but “I just don’t know what it is” ([35:23]).

The Content Conundrum:

Even if classic franchises deliver, the hosts are wary. “If these games come out and hit: Different story. But you look at last year… they had [releases], but…” (Greg, [34:02])
Gary questions if Bethesda can keep its old-school RPG style relevant in a post-Baldur's Gate 3 era. “You can't live in a world with things like Baldur's Gate 3… and keep doing [static Bethesda dialogue].” ([39:15])

Notable Quotes:

“Are they going to be the next Sega… former hardware and software company, now just a software company?” — Gary Whitta ([23:11])
“I want to believe [Xbox] can turn it around, see through their vision and really find a niche.” — Greg Miller ([23:58])
“For years, we've talked about the dominoes being lined up by Xbox… but they still can't stop stepping on rakes.” — Greg Miller ([24:11])
“Literally everyone says, ‘We don’t want [AI]!’ And they go, ‘Got it! More AI!’” — Gary Whitta ([32:48])
“The play anywhere stuff… until that architecture gets flawless, it’s a long way off.” — Gary Whitta ([28:19])
“I don't think it's about to take over the world… PlayStation has gone the opposite of Xbox, launching the portal. Xbox is banging the drum on XCloud.” — Greg Miller ([30:07])

3. Industry News: Layoffs & Labor ([42:07])

Ubisoft Halifax studio closed weeks after unionizing ([42:07] – [48:26]).
Greg and Gary immediately discuss the likelihood that unionizing hastened the shutdown—“Anytime you form a union… you put a target on your back because unions are inherently adversarial towards corporations.” (Gary, [45:56])
“Unions are the only shield against [corporate exploitation]—apes together strong.” (Gary, [48:13])

4. New Hardware: Lenovo Legion Go2 with SteamOS ([49:00])

Lenovo launches the Legion Go2, now shipping with SteamOS for better gaming performance ([49:00]).
Gary notes: “The same hardware, the exact same machine… considerably more performant on SteamOS.” ([52:49])
Both prefer SteamOS for gaming handhelds, while Windows remains weighed down by legacy baggage.

5. WE News: Quick Hits ([53:00])

PS5 “Hyper Pop” Accessories revealed ([53:46])
- Gary: “I like the green and the blue controllers… As I’ve been coming over to PlayStation, I really like [DualSense].” ([54:19])
Discord confidential IPO filing ([57:17])
Ebola Village indie horror hits PSN ([57:28]) — Hosts joke about the tone and style.
Breck EKX indie game announcement ([58:14])
Local news celebrates Andy Cortez ([56:20])
Community superchats and discussion on game of the year, Gary's comic (Batman: Fortress), and more.

Memorable Moments & Banter

Greg frets about being cut from Gary’s audio project, only to find he’s been included as a “pity voice” (with Lucy James and Elyse Willems) ([06:43]–[06:59]).
Both joke about the toll of post-pandemic Hollywood and industry burnout, with Gary reflecting on self-funding the new project: “It probably cost me like seven or eight thousand dollars to make…” ([11:00])
Extended riffing on unionization, labor rights, and corporate doublespeak ([44:24]–[48:49]).
Gary learning about and loving the local Texan news piece on Andy Cortez ([56:20]).
Greg laments Bethesda’s refusal to meaningfully update their RPG dialogue systems: "Don't get excited for a Bethesda game, thinking it won't be a Bethesda game." ([38:37])

Takeaways

Xbox’s future remains highly uncertain, with the hosts divided on whether the brand will pivot into premium PC-style hardware or slowly sunset consoles. The consensus is that content will make or break the brand, especially with competition and rising hardware costs.
Unionization efforts remain fraught; the Ubisoft Halifax situation highlights ongoing risks and corporate resistance across the industry.
SteamOS is gaining traction as the preferred handheld gaming OS, with both hosts skeptical of Windows’ future as a gaming platform.
Lively banter and sharp wit keep the show engaging, balancing news, speculation, and industry reflection.

Listen for These Notable Quotes

On Xbox Strategy:
“For years… Xbox has this war chest of IP, but they still can’t stop stepping on rakes and screwing up the little stuff.” — Greg ([24:11])
On AI Overload:
“Literally everyone says, ‘We don’t want that’—and they (Microsoft) go, ‘Got it. More AI.’” — Gary ([32:48])
On Labor & Unions:
“Unions are the only shield against that. Apes together strong.” — Gary ([48:13])
On Bethesda’s RPG Formula:
“Don’t get excited for a Bethesda game, thinking it won’t be a Bethesda game.” — Greg ([38:37])

Useful Links Mentioned

See You in Hell TV – Gary Whitta's new audio comedy project
Kinda Funny Patreon – Support the show
Windows Central 2026 Xbox Report (referenced in Xbox segment)

This episode offered a thoughtful, lively look at the crossroads facing the industry, delivered in the signature Kinda Funny blend of humor and hard truth. Whether you’re invested in Xbox’s future, labor struggles, or new hardware, this is a must-listen episode.

Kinda Funny Games Daily – January 7, 2026

"Xbox 2026 Predictions" with Greg Miller & Gary Whitta

Episode Overview

Major Segments & Timestamps

[13:13] — Show Start & Banter: Holidays and Gary’s new audio show
[15:14] — The Roper Report: News Rundown
[15:38] — Main Topic: Xbox in 2026 – Predictions, Leaks, and Future Prospects
[41:00] — Sponsor Break
[42:07] — Ubisoft Halifax Closures and Unionization
[49:00] — New Hardware: Lenovo Legion Go2 with SteamOS
[53:00] — "We News" Lightning Round: Small stories (PS5 accessories, Discord IPO, indie games)
[58:33] — Community Super Chats & Q&A
[66:45] — Show Wrap-up & Gary’s Audio Project "See You in Hell"

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Reflecting on the Holidays & Gary’s Projects ([01:13] – [13:13])

Greg and Gary catch up after the holidays, lamenting the post-festive clean-up—“Putting the tree up is the excitement of the season… Infinitely worse taking the tree down than putting it up.” (Greg, [02:49])
Gary gives a heartfelt background on his new audio comedy "See You in Hell," venting frustrations about the "absolute fucking shit show" that is the current Hollywood industry ([04:33]).
He highlights the impressive cast (Shannon Woodward, John Boyega, Alex Winter, John Cryer), all working for free during Hollywood’s ongoing slowdown ([05:40] – [09:51]).
Gary discusses plans for more episodes, contingent on the pilot’s success and potential crowdfunding.

2. Xbox 2026: What’s Next? ([15:38] – [41:00])

Headlined by “The Four Horsemen” ([15:38]):

According to Windows Central leaks, Xbox’s 2026 first-party push features Fable, Gears of War: E-Day, Halo Campaign Evolved, and Forza Horizon 6—referred to internally as "the Four Horsemen" ([15:38]).
Microsoft is expected to showcase these at the soon-to-be-annual Xbox Developer Direct.

Fallout Speculation & Remasters:

Hype surrounds a mysterious Amazon countdown tied to Fallout, spurring speculation about a Fallout 3 or New Vegas remaster ([19:02]).
Jez Corden’s report suggests Fallout 3 remake is planned, alongside Fallout 5 being greenlit.

Hardware and Platform Shift:

Leaks indicate Microsoft may reveal new hardware—like the Elite Controller Series 3—and possibly show off controllers with “direct to Wi-Fi” connectivity, minimizing Bluetooth latency ([19:02]).
The bigger question: Will Xbox pivot away from traditional consoles toward PC hybrid devices or even become more like a publisher?

Candid Industry Analysis ([20:26]):

Gary: "I have generally, like I've always said before, I'm platform agnostic… But in terms of like the long, the long game, I have found myself… hedging my bets a little bit." ([20:35])
He and Greg debate whether Xbox will follow Sega’s route (exit hardware, focus on publishing) or bet on a premium PC/Xbox hybrid box ([22:35], [23:11]).
Greg doubts the viability of Xbox’s rumored pricey “hybrid PC” hardware, citing rising component costs: "Nobody heard the details… They just saw the price go up…" ([24:11])
Gary envisions a “Steam Machine Verified” future, where locked-down hardware specs make PC gaming more ‘console-like’ ([27:10]).
Both express skepticism that premium hybrid hardware will dethrone cheaper, more flexible Steam Deck-style devices.

AI & Strategy Concerns:

Greg: "Microsoft shoving AI into everything… Closing up studios… pinching pennies… It’s them putting pressure on Phil and his team to deviate from what they've already done." ([24:11])
AI is seen as an inevitability, with both hosts sharing skepticism about how it’s integrated into gaming and productivity tools—“Literally everyone says 'we don't want that.' And they [Microsoft] go, 'got it, more AI.'" (Gary, [32:48])
Gary remains convinced there’s at least one successful possible path for Xbox, but “I just don’t know what it is” ([35:23]).

The Content Conundrum:

Even if classic franchises deliver, the hosts are wary. “If these games come out and hit: Different story. But you look at last year… they had [releases], but…” (Greg, [34:02])
Gary questions if Bethesda can keep its old-school RPG style relevant in a post-Baldur's Gate 3 era. “You can't live in a world with things like Baldur's Gate 3… and keep doing [static Bethesda dialogue].” ([39:15])

Notable Quotes:

“Are they going to be the next Sega… former hardware and software company, now just a software company?” — Gary Whitta ([23:11])
“I want to believe [Xbox] can turn it around, see through their vision and really find a niche.” — Greg Miller ([23:58])
“For years, we've talked about the dominoes being lined up by Xbox… but they still can't stop stepping on rakes.” — Greg Miller ([24:11])
“Literally everyone says, ‘We don’t want [AI]!’ And they go, ‘Got it! More AI!’” — Gary Whitta ([32:48])
“The play anywhere stuff… until that architecture gets flawless, it’s a long way off.” — Gary Whitta ([28:19])
“I don't think it's about to take over the world… PlayStation has gone the opposite of Xbox, launching the portal. Xbox is banging the drum on XCloud.” — Greg Miller ([30:07])

3. Industry News: Layoffs & Labor ([42:07])

Ubisoft Halifax studio closed weeks after unionizing ([42:07] – [48:26]).
Greg and Gary immediately discuss the likelihood that unionizing hastened the shutdown—“Anytime you form a union… you put a target on your back because unions are inherently adversarial towards corporations.” (Gary, [45:56])
“Unions are the only shield against [corporate exploitation]—apes together strong.” (Gary, [48:13])

4. New Hardware: Lenovo Legion Go2 with SteamOS ([49:00])

Lenovo launches the Legion Go2, now shipping with SteamOS for better gaming performance ([49:00]).
Gary notes: “The same hardware, the exact same machine… considerably more performant on SteamOS.” ([52:49])
Both prefer SteamOS for gaming handhelds, while Windows remains weighed down by legacy baggage.

5. WE News: Quick Hits ([53:00])

PS5 “Hyper Pop” Accessories revealed ([53:46])
- Gary: “I like the green and the blue controllers… As I’ve been coming over to PlayStation, I really like [DualSense].” ([54:19])
Discord confidential IPO filing ([57:17])
Ebola Village indie horror hits PSN ([57:28]) — Hosts joke about the tone and style.
Breck EKX indie game announcement ([58:14])
Local news celebrates Andy Cortez ([56:20])
Community superchats and discussion on game of the year, Gary's comic (Batman: Fortress), and more.

Memorable Moments & Banter

Greg frets about being cut from Gary’s audio project, only to find he’s been included as a “pity voice” (with Lucy James and Elyse Willems) ([06:43]–[06:59]).
Both joke about the toll of post-pandemic Hollywood and industry burnout, with Gary reflecting on self-funding the new project: “It probably cost me like seven or eight thousand dollars to make…” ([11:00])
Extended riffing on unionization, labor rights, and corporate doublespeak ([44:24]–[48:49]).
Gary learning about and loving the local Texan news piece on Andy Cortez ([56:20]).
Greg laments Bethesda’s refusal to meaningfully update their RPG dialogue systems: "Don't get excited for a Bethesda game, thinking it won't be a Bethesda game." ([38:37])

Takeaways

Xbox’s future remains highly uncertain, with the hosts divided on whether the brand will pivot into premium PC-style hardware or slowly sunset consoles. The consensus is that content will make or break the brand, especially with competition and rising hardware costs.
Unionization efforts remain fraught; the Ubisoft Halifax situation highlights ongoing risks and corporate resistance across the industry.
SteamOS is gaining traction as the preferred handheld gaming OS, with both hosts skeptical of Windows’ future as a gaming platform.
Lively banter and sharp wit keep the show engaging, balancing news, speculation, and industry reflection.

Listen for These Notable Quotes

On Xbox Strategy:
“For years… Xbox has this war chest of IP, but they still can’t stop stepping on rakes and screwing up the little stuff.” — Greg ([24:11])
On AI Overload:
“Literally everyone says, ‘We don’t want that’—and they (Microsoft) go, ‘Got it. More AI.’” — Gary ([32:48])
On Labor & Unions:
“Unions are the only shield against that. Apes together strong.” — Gary ([48:13])
On Bethesda’s RPG Formula:
“Don’t get excited for a Bethesda game, thinking it won’t be a Bethesda game.” — Greg ([38:37])

Useful Links Mentioned

See You in Hell TV – Gary Whitta's new audio comedy project
Kinda Funny Patreon – Support the show
Windows Central 2026 Xbox Report (referenced in Xbox segment)

Xbox 2026 Predictions - Kinda Funny Games Daily 01.07.25

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Summary

Kinda Funny Games Daily – January 7, 2026

"Xbox 2026 Predictions" with Greg Miller & Gary Whitta

Episode Overview

Major Segments & Timestamps

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Reflecting on the Holidays & Gary’s Projects ([01:13] – [13:13])

2. Xbox 2026: What’s Next? ([15:38] – [41:00])

Headlined by “The Four Horsemen” ([15:38]):

Fallout Speculation & Remasters:

Hardware and Platform Shift:

Candid Industry Analysis ([20:26]):

AI & Strategy Concerns:

The Content Conundrum:

3. Industry News: Layoffs & Labor ([42:07])

4. New Hardware: Lenovo Legion Go2 with SteamOS ([49:00])

5. WE News: Quick Hits ([53:00])

Memorable Moments & Banter

Takeaways

Listen for These Notable Quotes

Useful Links Mentioned

Summary

Kinda Funny Games Daily – January 7, 2026

"Xbox 2026 Predictions" with Greg Miller & Gary Whitta

Episode Overview

Major Segments & Timestamps

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Reflecting on the Holidays & Gary’s Projects ([01:13] – [13:13])

2. Xbox 2026: What’s Next? ([15:38] – [41:00])

Headlined by “The Four Horsemen” ([15:38]):

Fallout Speculation & Remasters:

Hardware and Platform Shift:

Candid Industry Analysis ([20:26]):

AI & Strategy Concerns:

The Content Conundrum:

3. Industry News: Layoffs & Labor ([42:07])

4. New Hardware: Lenovo Legion Go2 with SteamOS ([49:00])

5. WE News: Quick Hits ([53:00])

Memorable Moments & Banter

Takeaways

Listen for These Notable Quotes

Useful Links Mentioned