Super Best Friends Video Game Sleepover

In Episode 197 of SBFVGS, Adam, David, are joined by special guest PattyHayesJr! Adam has returned both to the podcast and to "God of War Ragnarok," drawn back by its narrative and action, while David has dived into "Baldur's Gate 3," experimenting with mods to enhance his gameplay experience. PattyHayesJr, on the other hand, recounts his adventures in "Fallout New Vegas," exploring its vast, post-apocalyptic world for the first time and enjoying the modding scene. Their varied experiences reflect the wide-ranging appeal of video games, from epic storytelling and immersive worlds to the creative possibilities mods offer. The meat of the discussion shifts to the burgeoning trend of Live Service games, as AAA publishers increasingly focus on this "Golden Goose." The trio unpacks the mixed bag of potential and pitfalls these games represent—when successful, they seem to print money for their publishers, yet they also risk oversaturation and consumer fatigue. Citing examples like "The Avengers" and "Suicide Squad" games, they debate the balance between monetization strategies and player satisfaction. This episode offers a nuanced look at the impact of Live Service games on the industry, questioning whether this focus benefits players or primarily serves the bottom line of publishers​ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the latest episode of "Super Best Friends Video Game Sleepover," hosts David Tate and Mike Lopez, along with their guest ShabbySheikah (find her on Twitch at https://twitch.tv/shabbysheikah), delve into their latest gaming endeavors. They discuss games they’ve been playing, including Baldur’s Gate 3, Golden Sun, Lies of P, Helldivers 2, Lethal Company, Final Fantasy VII Remake (this time with no ragequits from David), Spider-Man 2, and Persona 3 Reload The conversation heats up as Mike shares his strong dislike for the survival/crafting genre, a stark contrast to Shabby's deep affection for it. This difference in opinion sparks a lively debate over the merits and drawbacks of games like "Minecraft," "Valheim," "Palworld," and "Nightingale." They delve into the elements of survival mechanics, resource management, and crafting systems, discussing how these aspects either enhance the gaming experience or detract from it. The discussion, rich with personal insights and broader observations about game design and player preferences, captures the divisive nature of the genre, making for an engaging and insightful exchange. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In episode 195 of the Super Best Friends Video Game Sleepover podcast, David and Mike engage in a diverse and insightful discussion covering a range of gaming experiences and news. David takes the listeners through his engaging experiences in "Baldur's Gate 3," highlighting the game's complexity and challenges, and shares his excitement about the innovative "Lego Fortnite" mode. Meanwhile, Mike offers a detailed recount of his 70-hour playthrough of "Bloodborne," shedding light on the game's depth and immersion, and discusses the broader impact of Game Pass subscriptions on the gaming industry. The episode also ventures into important gaming news, with a focused discussion on Naughty Dog's decision to cancel "The Last of Us" online game. This topic paves the way for an in-depth conversation about the future of live service games and the strategic directions of major gaming studios. Adding a significant highlight, the episode features the eagerly anticipated and coveted SBFVGSVGAGOTY’s (Super Best Friends Video Game Sleepover Video Game Awards Game of the Year) awards. This segment promises an exciting and unique perspective on the year's best games, complete with intriguing debates and unexpected outcomes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike talks about his favorite FromSoftware game with Super Best Friend Casey Lawrence. The episode covers Mike and Casey's history with the "Soulsborne" genre, some of our favorite Bloodborne mechanics (as well as some criticisms), and short dive into the lore that is bound to leave you more confused than you were before you listened to it. Spoiler warnings for Bloodborne and Elden Ring. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to a warm and engaging episode 194 of Super Best Friends Video Game Sleepover. First off, Mike and David light up the conversation with their recent gaming experiences. Mike ventures into the intriguing worlds of 'Lies of P,' 'Laika: Aged Through Blood,' and the FromSoftware-inspired 'The Last Faith,' offering his unique take on these captivating titles. David, in contrast, shares his delightful co-op adventures in 'Super Mario Bros Wonder,' playing alongside his wife Casandra. David also discusses playing the Resident Evil 4 Remake, and even gives it a coveted pizza rating! The episode then pivots to the forefront of gaming news, with a special focus on the much-anticipated announcement of 'Grand Theft Auto VI' by Rockstar Games. The hosts also engage in a critical discussion on Microsoft's AI decision and its potential impact on the roles of voice actors and writers in the gaming industry. Highlighting the episode is the GOTY (Game of the Year) Contenders segment. Mike and David deep dive into a roster of strong contenders for the year's top games, including 'Super Mario Bros Wonder,' 'Resident Evil 4 Remake,' 'Starfield,' 'Tears of the Kingdom,' 'Spider-Man 2,' 'Baldur’s Gate 3,' and 'Lies of P.' Each game is scrutinized for its gameplay mechanics, storytelling, and overall impact, fueling an engaging debate over which titles might clinch the coveted GOTY title in 2023. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and join the fireside chat in Episode 194 of SBFVGS for an episode filled with rich gaming discussions, industry insights, and lively discussion on the best games of the year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the newest episode of Super Best Friends Video Game Sleepover, Mike and David dive into a hearty discussion filled with the latest news from the gaming world. The headlines are buzzing with the recent staff cuts at Epic Games, the exciting early access announcement of Hades II, and Sony's enticing offer of free games to boost PS5 sales. The duo navigates through the sea of upcoming game releases, setting the stage for the episode's main event. As the leaves fall, anticipation for the upcoming game releases reaches a fever pitch. Mike and David share their most coveted picks from the rich harvest of games slated for the last quarter of 2023. The list of upcoming releases is stacked, with titles like Assassin's Creed Mirage, Alan Wake 2, and Spider-Man 2 leading the charge. But which games have secured a spot in their top 3? The suspense is real, and the gaming chatter is as lively as ever in this episode of SBFVGS! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike, David, and special guest Garrett Morlang from the Super Gamer Boys Podcast ( https://supergamerboys.com/ ) delve into the virtual realms they've been frequenting lately. From button-mashing in Street Fighter VI to chasing digital creatures in Pokémon Yellow and battling hellish foes in Diablo IV, it's been an eventful gaming spell for our trio. In news, they brush upon Nintendo Switch 2's buzz, touch on Chris Pratt's sudden ubiquity in movies based on video games, and ponder over the enigmatic announcement of a TMNT game that presents nothing but concept art. But where the heart of this episode truly lies is in the shared experiences of Baldur's Gate 3. As the latest entry in the iconic RPG series, it's captivated players worldwide, and our hosts are no exception. They exchange tales of in-game triumphs, chuckle over quirky mechanics, and deliberate on aspects they adore and those they're not so fond of. It's a thorough, friendly discussion on what makes Baldur's Gate 3 a modern RPG marvel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join David and Mike in the latest episode of SBFVGS, where gaming discussions are as crisp as a perfectly baked pizza. David dishes out a detailed review of "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom," complete with a savory Pizza Score. As they chew over their latest gaming ventures—Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, Street Fighter VI, and Baldur’s Gate 3—Mike and David ensure there's no shortage of gaming exploits. They navigate the often-surprising world of gaming news: an uncanny goldfish conquering one of Elden Ring's toughest bosses, Daedalic Entertainment's abrupt halt to game development post their 'Gollum' release flop, and the long-awaited sequel to the classic Blade Runner game. Is it 2033 already? The main course, however, is a piping hot discussion on a story that’s been simmering: Microsoft's claim regarding Call of Duty's multi-console future in light of the pending Microsoft/Activision deal. A bite into this layered topic takes them back to when Bethesda was folded into the Xbox family, and its games became exclusive to Xbox. Will the same fate befall Call of Duty, or is there more to Microsoft's stance? Tune in to Episode 191 of SBFVGS for the full serving! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Episode 190 of SBFVGS, our video game aficionados Mike and David return, diving headfirst into their current obsessions: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and the ever-challenging Street Fighter VI. As they traverse Hyrule and battle in the World Warrior Tournament, they pause to question whether Zelda's latest tear-filled adventure might be overstaying its welcome in terms of game length. But there's a bigger elephant in the room. In an unexpected twist, everyone seems to be flocking to Diablo IV despite the previous backlash against Blizzard. Why? Join them as they ponder this paradox, trying to make sense of the gaming community's fickleness. The episode heats up as they turn their gaze to the biggest event of the summer: the Summer Game Fest 2023. Drooling over hotly anticipated titles like Starfield, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and Star Wars Outlaws, they share their excitement and predictions. But the sleepover doesn't stop there! As an added bonus, Mike and David are launching a giveaway that's sure to thrill any gamer. Tune in for your chance to win your own copy of either Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom or Street Fighter VI - winner's choice! Don't miss out on the instructions on how to enter this epic contest. Join us for this gaming-filled sleepover, bursting with discussions, debates, giveaways, and a whole lot of summer gaming hype! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Episode 189 of SBFVGS, David and Mike embark on a rollercoaster ride through their recent gaming escapades! David spills the beans on his mixed emotions after wrapping up Metroid Prime Remastered, while Mike confesses his undying love for the irresistible Resident Evil 4 remake. The dynamic duo also dives into the shocking leak of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, two whole weeks ahead of schedule, and laments the sad state of affairs for Star Wars Jedi: Survivor's launch performance issues. Hold onto your controllers, because they also venture into the fantastical realm of AI-enhanced gaming, revealing a mind-blowing Skyrim mod that combines ChatGPT and other generative AI's to spawn NPCs with jaw-dropping conversational prowess. And for the pièce de résistance, David and Mike dissect the much-buzzed-about Super Mario Bros. Movie by Illumination, dishing out their hot cakes and showcasing feedback from the SBFVGS community. Join this gaming sleepover extravaganza for laughs, insights, and a sprinkle of movie magic! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike and David take the reins in Episode 188 of SBFVGS, diving headfirst into the world of survival horror as they discuss Mike's recent playthroughs of the 2019 remake of Resident Evil 2 and the freshly-released 2023 remake of Resident Evil 4. As they share their thoughts on both games, David recounts his own adventure in Metroid Prime Remastered, experiencing the classic for the first time. In a somewhat heavier twist, the duo addresses the recent social media harassment of Ada Wong's new voice actor in the Resident Evil 4 remake. But fear not, they keep the atmosphere light-hearted while attempting to dissect the reasons behind the online meanness. Join Mike and David for a friendly sleepover packed with gaming talk, camaraderie, and a surprising amount of spooky games chatter that's sure to send a shiver down your spine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike and David gather once again to discuss the latest goings-on in gaming, like: the video-game-to-movie-or-tv-show boom that draweth nigh, that apparently only the PS5 can handle Final Fantasy 16, and how fantastic Leon Kennedy from Resident Evil 4 looks in a thong for his age! They also discuss the odd phenomenon of growing up feeling one way about a game, and then having a moment where that feeling changes, either for better or for worse! Also David does some bad impressions of Solid Snake, Colonel Campbell, General Pepper, and Don Pardo! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike Lopez and David J. Tate sit down with newly-annointed Super Best Friend Casey Lawrence (aka Ultimakillz) to discuss Hogwarts Legacy and the PC port of The Legend Of Zelda - A Link To The Past. They also talk about the positives and negatives about Nintendo's approach to the "Virtual Console" on the Switch, and which model the prefer. And, as usual, many laughs are had by all (including by you)! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SBFVGS is back, baby! In this episode, Mike and David discuss the pros and cons of letting oneself get hyped beyond all reason vs letting yourself stay calm, cool, and collected and being pleasantly surprised when a game releases and is a certified hit! We also discuss the recent resurgence of folks in our community playing Hades, along with the shocking, sudden release of Hi-Fi Rush, Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope, and Signalis! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this surprise episode in honor of David’s recent birthday, Mike, David and Super Best Friend Gabe Patillo sit down to discuss the new(ish) trailer for that Super Mario Bros movie, Overwatch 2 (aka Overwatch 1.5), and the spoopy games they're playing! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adam, Mike and David reunite for a clandestine mid-hiatus podcast episode, catching up on the past 6 months, and the games that have been tickling our fancy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adam Redding, Mike Lopez and David Tate cozy up to the polygonal fire to celebrate a surprise, mid-hiatus SBFVGS Christmas episode, featuring our 2021 Game of the Year, Game giveaways and the annual Dueling of the Arnies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adam, Mike and David party it up for the Seven Year Anniversary Episode of SBFVGS, including game giveaways and much ballyhoo, while also announcing A Very SBFVGS Hiatus for the audio podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adam, David and Mike reunite for the latest gaming news and listener tweets, and to delve into their picks for the greatest and best Tim Schafer games! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adam, Mike and David sit down for a heavier topic this fortnight, as we delve into the sexist & misogynistic charges leveled at Activision Blizzard and their "Frat Boy Culture", as well as addressing the topic at large in the Gaming Industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices