Kinda Funny Gamescast: Episode Summary – Resident Evil Requiem, Onimusha, Pragmata Previews!
Release Date: June 11, 2025
Hosts: Tim Gettys (Mike), Greg “GameOverGreggy” Miller, Blessing Adeoye, and Andy Cortez
1. Introduction and Context
The episode kicks off with a brief, heartfelt segment about fatherhood, seamlessly transitioning into the main content of the Gamescast. Hosted by Mike, Greg, Blessing, and Andy, the panel dives deep into the latest happenings in the gaming world, focusing primarily on recent previews and hands-on experiences from Summer Game Fest.
2. Xbox Game Showcase Review
a. Removal of Xcast
Mike initiates the discussion by addressing the community's reaction to the removal of Xcast. Paris Lilly joins remotely from Los Angeles, sharing insights from an Xbox fan community watch party.
b. Showcase Highlights and Host Scoring Discrepancies
The panel debates the recent Xbox Game Showcase, with Mike expressing disappointment, stating, “...it was a mediocre show, a 5 to 6 range on that one” (02:16). In contrast, Paris defends the showcase, awarding it an “8 out of 10,” highlighting the variety of games announced and the strategic timing of major reveals for next year’s 25th anniversary celebrations.
Greg chimes in to mediate the scoring debate, ultimately supporting Paris’s higher rating (04:23).
c. Notable Game Announcements
Key highlights from the showcase include:
- Clockwork Revolution: Praised by Mike as a standout moment, with Greg agreeing it was a “blowout” in terms of presentation quality (08:34).
- Gears of War Reloaded: Greg and Paris express excitement over the enhanced visuals and cross-device play features.
- Call of Duty Trailer: The panel feels the trailer left a “bad taste” as it concluded the showcase without fully capitalizing on the hype (10:02).
d. Xbox Play Anywhere and Handheld Insights
Paris delves into Xbox’s Play Anywhere initiative, emphasizing its integration with the new Xbox Ally X handheld device. She notes, “Anything that’s on Game Pass, anything that is playable on a PC, you can play on this handheld” (14:17). Mike remains cautiously optimistic about the handheld, questioning its necessity and expressing hesitance over the high price point (49:55).
e. Third-Party Partnerships Critique
Mike critiques the lack of major third-party announcements, pointing out the absence of Ubisoft and EA highlights, which he believes could have elevated the showcase (13:48).
3. Resident Evil Requiem (Resident Evil 9)
a. Presentation Overview
Paris provides an overview of Resident Evil Requiem, detailing its intense horror elements and first-person gameplay perspective. “It was a very intense demo... graphically, visually look really, really good” (20:05).
b. Gameplay Impressions
The game features Grace Ashcroft, the protagonist, who faces off against terrifying new monsters in a suspense-filled environment. Paris describes a tense scene: “...she's slowly being able to get out of that and the struggle... a jump scare kind of thing, just super intense” (20:11).
Greg adds, referencing Matt Kim’s review from IGN, highlighting the game’s ability to evoke fear reminiscent of classic Resident Evil titles (21:17). However, he contrasts this with Tim’s excitement, questioning the game’s deviation from traditional survival horror elements (23:55).
c. Comparison with Previous Titles
Mike and Greg discuss the evolution of the Resident Evil series, expressing concerns over maintaining the balance between horror and action. Mike notes, “With 7 and 8, there's that ultimate scare moment... afterwards it's just kind of a slow letdown” (28:33).
d. Host and Listener Opinions
Listener Kobe praises the visceral and horrifying experience, stating, “...one of the most grotesque monsters I've seen in the franchise” (22:30). Conversely, Greg references Kurt’s lukewarm preview, highlighting mixed feelings within the community.
e. Future Expectations
The hosts express anticipation for how Resident Evil Requiem will balance horror and action, with Paris excited to play through the game despite not being a long-time fan.
4. Onimusha 2: Way of the Sword
a. Presentation Overview
Paris introduces Onimusha 2: Way of the Sword, showcased during the same presentation as Resident Evil Requiem. Scheduled for an early 2026 release, the game promises visually stunning swordplay and character upgrades.
b. Gameplay Mechanics
The game features combat mechanics centered around sword pairing and soul collection, allowing character upgrades. Paris highlights impressive boss fights and the potential for engaging combat sequences.
c. Hosts' Impressions
While Paris is enthusiastic about the swordplay and visual presentation, Greg remains skeptical, stating, “Absolutely not. I tried to play Onimusha back in the day...” (46:56). Mike echoes this sentiment, questioning the game's uniqueness amid a saturated market of similar titles.
d. Comparison with Similar Games
Andy draws parallels with other sword-centric games like Black Myth Wukong and Dead Space, emphasizing the need for distinct mechanics and compelling combat to prevent genre fatigue.
5. Pragmata Preview
a. Presentation Overview
Pragmata, Capcom’s newest IP, is a science fiction action-adventure game set on a lunar research station. The game’s unique feature is its integrated hacking mini-game, combining action and strategy.
b. Gameplay Mechanics and Hacking Mini-Game
Greg details the hacking mechanic: players must engage in grid-based puzzles to disable enemies before attacking. “You have to hack every one of the people, then you shoot them” (35:12).
c. Hosts' Impressions
Initially unimpressed, Greg becomes excited after experiencing the dual-control mechanic. Mike appreciates the innovation, noting, “...this felt fun to do” (35:12). Paris praises the game’s potential, awarding it an “8” for its engaging mechanics and visual presentation (38:10).
d. Listener Feedback
Listener Kobe commends Pragmata’s unique combat system, expressing eagerness to play and experience its combination of action and strategy (47:17).
e. Future Expectations
The panel remains hopeful about Pragmata’s success, emphasizing its unique approach within Capcom’s portfolio. They anticipate further revelations will clarify the game’s bold new directions hinted at during presentations.
6. Listener Super Chats and Feedback
Throughout the episode, the hosts interact with listener super chats, receiving a mix of praise and constructive criticism:
- Kobe: Applauds Pragmata’s combat system and Resident Evil Requiem’s horror elements, urging excitement for upcoming releases.
- James: Praises the Xbox Showcase as more impressive than previous State of Play events.
- Beans: Echoes excitement for Pragmata and Onimusha, highlighting Capcom’s strong presence.
- Kristoff: Sends supportive messages to the hosts, reinforcing positive community engagement.
7. Conclusion and Future Topics Preview
As the episode wraps up, the hosts thank their supporters and briefly touch on upcoming content. They tease future segment previews, including discussions on Superman and gameplay sessions for new titles like Dune Awakening. The panel encourages listeners to stay tuned for more in-depth reviews and daily streams.
Key Quotes:
- Mike on Dadication: “...we worked together. We did a good job. That's dadication.” (00:17)
- Greg on Showcase Rating: “Paris is 100% right... Mellow fellow is 100% wrong.” (04:23)
- Paris on Game Pass: “Anything that is on Game Pass... you can play on this handheld.” (14:17)
- Greg on Pragmata's Hacking: “You have to hack every one of the people, then you shoot them.” (35:12)
- Listener Kobe: “The RE Requiem experience was so visceral and horrifying with one of the most grotesque monsters I've seen in the franchise.” (22:30)
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the critical discussions and insights from the June 11, 2025 episode of Kinda Funny Gamescast. Whether you're an avid listener or a newcomer, these highlights provide a clear overview of the panel’s perspectives on the latest gaming developments.
