John and Ryan return with a packed episode full of fresh pickups, tough gameplay impressions, and a look at the latest industry buzz. Ryan dives into his ongoing run through Returnal, breaking down the game’s relentless roguelike loops and the thrill of surviving its bullet‑hell chaos. John follows up with his experience playing Stellar Blade, sharing thoughts on its combat, pacing, and whether it delivers on its stylish promise. The guys also tackle two big stories shaking up the gaming world. First, they discuss new data showing that the most‑played PlayStation and Xbox games of 2025 were virtually unchanged from 2024, with juggernauts like Fortnite, Roblox, GTA V, Minecraft, and Call of Duty continuing to dominate player time despite a wave of new releases. Then they dig into the heated debate surrounding the rumored PS6 price point, as speculation about a higher‑than‑expected launch cost has fans split and wondering what the next generation will look like. To wrap things up, it’s time for this month’s theme: Video Games With Agonizing Tutorials. The Inflation Deflation Challenge spotlights The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. Does its famously slow intro still drag the experience down, and where does the game’s value sit today? 00:00 Introduction14:14 Current Gaming Picks and Experiences25:04 Analysis of Most Played Games29:18 The Impact of Sandbox Games31:06 The Challenge of Keeping Up with Entertainment33:57 The Evolution of Gaming Preferences36:44 Anticipating the Next Console Generation39:07 The Impact of Game Availability on Consoles42:05 The Future of Gaming and Streaming44:21 The Legacy of Zelda Games56:49 Collecting and Valuing Video Game Guides   Find us on TheGameDeflators.com Twitter - www.twitter.com/GameDeflatorsFacebook - www.facebook.com/TheGameDeflatorsInstagram - www.instagram.com/thegamedeflators

In this episode of The Game Deflators Podcast, John and Ryan dive into a packed week of gaming chatter, starting with a look at their latest pickups. John reveals an unexpectedly massive haul of Dungeons & Dragons books, while Ryan contemplates purchasing a PlayStation Portal. The conversation then shifts to industry news, where John and Ryan unpack reports of rising RAM costs and what that could mean for a potential PlayStation 5 price increase. They also discuss the recent separation of GOG from CD Projekt’s corporate structure, exploring what this move might signal for the future of DRM‑free gaming and why it matters to players who value ownership and preservation. From there, the duo jumps into this week’s game review, putting the original Driver for the PlayStation through its paces. They revisit the game’s notoriously tough tutorial, its cinematic car chases, and the legacy it left on the genre, all while debating whether its current market price truly reflects the experience it offers today.   00:00 Introduction and Game Picks09:53 D&D Book Collection and Value19:53 Current Gaming Experiences26:51 GOG's New Ownership and Future30:10 PlayStation 5 Price Hike Discussion32:30 Driver Game Review: Nostalgia vs. Reality   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

This week on The Game Deflators Podcast, John and Ryan dive into a packed lineup of gaming chatter, industry trends, and a retro review that hits all the right notes. They kick things off with their latest game pickups and what’s been dominating their playtime, setting the stage for a broader look at how modern gaming continues to evolve. From convoluted pre‑order bonuses to the growing mess of fragmented game editions, the duo breaks down why these trends are frustrating players and reshaping expectations. The conversation then shifts to the serious legal battles currently facing major video game companies. John and Ryan explore how these lawsuits raise tough questions about accountability, addiction, and the responsibilities developers have toward their audiences. On a more uplifting note, the hosts spotlight Sandfall Interactive’s new DLC for Clare Obscure Expedition 33, praising its generous free content and thoughtful difficulty adjustments. They also take time to discuss AI’s expanding role in game development sparks a lively debate between the two — where it helps, where it hurts, and why opinions across the industry are so divided. To wrap things up, John and Ryan revisit Lumines on the PSP for this week’s retro review, digging into why this rhythm‑puzzle classic still shines years later. 00:00 Introduction to the Game Inflators Podcast01:24 Recent Game Pickups and Holiday Gaming05:19 Current Games and Gameplay Experiences23:00 Trends to End in 202633:03 News of the Week and Closing Thoughts33:42 The Impact of Video Games on Children46:14 The Role of AI in Game Development52:10 Game Difficulty and Player Experience01:05:22 Luminous Puzzle Fusion: A Classic Review Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

In this episode of the Game Deflators podcast, hosts Jon and Ryan dive into their latest game pickups, including the cult favorite Sky Gunner and a stack of retro gaming books. They also share fresh updates from their Dungeons & Dragons campaigns, highlighting new character arcs, unexpected encounters, and the chaos their parties have stirred up. From there, the conversation shifts to their favorite games of the year—what stood out, what fell short, and which titles earned a spot on their personal lists. To wrap things up, they take on another round of the inflation‑deflation challenge, this time putting the holiday oddity Daze Before Christmas under scrutiny to see whether its current market price is naughty or nice. 00:00 Introduction to the Game Inflators Podcast02:17 Game Pickups and Recent Acquisitions06:21 Dungeons & Dragons Updates and Campaign Recaps12:18 Homebrewing D&D Campaigns and Storytelling Techniques18:14 The Role of AI in Game Mastering26:06 Game Reviews and Recommendations28:40 The Plucky Squire: A Charming Adventure30:59 Games of the Year: A Reflection on Favorites40:39 Looking Ahead: New Games Resolutions47:29 Elder Gamers: A 92-Year-Old Champion51:59 Magic: The Gathering's New Casual Format56:42 Exploring Days Before Christmas Game01:03:21 The Lack of Christmas Games01:10:05 Looking Ahead to New Year's Games   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

In this week’s episode of The Game Deflators Podcast, John and Ryan bring a packed agenda to the table. The duo kicks things off with fresh updates from their ongoing Strixhaven D&D campaign, sharing the latest twists, character antics, and how the story is evolving. Looking ahead, they set their New Games Resolutions for 2026, laying out the titles they’re determined to play, backlog goals, and what they hope to accomplish as gamers in the new year. The conversation then shifts to the 2025 Game Awards, where John and Ryan break down the highlights of the show, their favorite (and least favorite) trailers, and whether the event lived up to the hype. Adding a more analytical angle, the hosts dive into a new Boston Consulting Group report on gamer purchasing habits, exploring what the data says about how players are spending, and what it could mean for the industry moving forward. Finally, they wrap things up with a retro spotlight: a review of Batman Returns for the SNES, revisiting the beat ’em up classic to see if it still holds up today.   00:00 Introduction to the Game Deflators Podcast01:17 Recent Game Pickups and D&D Updates03:36 D&D Campaign Adventures and Challenges10:58 Future Campaign Plans and Game Mechanics19:39 Current Gaming Experiences and New Game Resolutions27:48 Nostalgia in Collectibles and Blind Boxes28:21 Exploring Metal Gear Solid: A Legendary Experience34:19 New Game Resolutions and Game Picks38:08 Game Awards Highlights and Reactions49:17 Exciting Game Trailers and Anticipations56:43 The Changing Landscape of Gaming Purchases01:01:03 Backlogs and Gaming Habits01:04:31 Inflation vs. Deflation: Game Pricing Discussion   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

In this episode of the Game Deflators podcast, John and Ryan discuss their recent game pickups and titles they are currently playing. The guys then delve into the topic of nostalgia in gaming, questioning whether classic titles hold up to modern standards. The conversation shifts to industry news, including Mark Cerny's thoughts on Legend of the Dragoon and the ongoing lawsuit between Tencent and Sony. Finally, they finish things off with a review of Home Alone on NES.00:00 Introduction to the Game Inflators Podcast03:15 Game Pickups and Holiday Gaming Plans06:12 Current Gaming Experiences: Stellar Blade and More09:12 Nostalgia in Gaming: Revisiting Classic Titles12:14 Mark Cerny's Thoughts on Legend of the Dragoon15:16 The Impact of Nostalgia on Game Quality18:10 Exploring Backlogs and Gaming Resolutions34:18 Industry Lawsuits and Game Clones39:17 Horizon Franchise Discussion46:16 Magic: The Gathering and Game Collaborations51:08 Home Alone NES Game Review Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

In this episode of the Game Deflators podcast, John and Ryan dive deep into the crossroads of creativity and commerce in the gaming industry. They explore how the Steam Machine’s pricing strategy could make or break its battle against heavyweights like the PS5, while reflecting on Dan Howser’s candid remarks about profit overshadowing innovation. The conversation shifts to the power of community and brand loyalty at gaming conventions, reminding us why shared passion keeps the industry alive. Finally, the guys visit Die Hard Trilogy on PS1, dissecting its gameplay mechanics and the enduring challenges of adapting blockbuster films into interactive experiences.   00:00 Introduction to the Game of Deflators Podcast01:38 Recent Gaming Pickups and Purchases06:46 Current Gaming Experiences and Reviews16:50 Discussion on the To The Moon Expo39:29 The Steam Machine: Pricing and Market Competition52:23 Creativity vs. Profit: Insights from Rockstar's Dan Howser01:00:29 Die Hard Trilogy: A Nostalgic Gaming Experience   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

In this episode of the Game Deflators podcast, John and Ryan team up with Will from PlayStation Ain’t Dead for a lively crossover. The crew dives into pickups ranging from classic PS1 gems to modern horror titles, while debating the quirks of collecting sealed games. John and Ryan also share their experiences with Cyberpunk 2077, Metal Gear Solid, and The Witcher. The conversation heats up as the trio debates GameStop’s outrageous “trade anything” promotion—marketing genius or pure chaos? Not to be outdone, the rise of AI-driven content takes center stage before NHL Hitz 2003 slams its way through the review section of the episode.  Expect laughs, nostalgia, and plenty of gaming banter. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome06:14 Recent Game Pickups and Reviews09:20 Current Gaming Experiences12:11 Discussion on Game Technology and Trends15:10 Exploring GameStop's New Initiatives26:38 GameStop's Unique Trade-In Promotion29:31 The Chaos of Trade-In Day32:49 YouTube and Social Media Buzz35:06 Generational Shifts in Gaming Preferences39:25 AI's Role in Gaming and Content Creation45:45 The Future of AI in Gaming54:48 NHL Hitz Game Mechanics and Gameplay Experience01:02:25 Game Pricing and Value Assessment01:10:11 GameStop Experiences and Collecting Culture   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

John and Ryan are back with another jam-packed episode covering the latest in gaming news, nostalgia, and industry trends. They kick things off by sharing their latest game pickups and games they are currently playing, before turning their attention to the newest updates and bans shaking up the Magic: The Gathering community.  The conversation then shifts to Valve’s bold return to hardware with the Steam Machine, sparking debate about its place in today’s console market. From there, the duo explores the future of gaming consoles and PCs, weighing in on how the landscape continues to evolve. Sony’s cross-buy feature also takes center stage as they discuss its impact on market competition and digital game ownership.  To wrap things up, John and Ryan take a nostalgic dive into Backyard Baseball, reminiscing about one of the most beloved childhood sports games.   00:00 Introduction to the Game Deflators Podcast01:25 Game Pickups and Collectibles03:16 Exploring Board Games: Aldara and Twilight Imperium06:16 Current Gaming Experiences: The Witcher and Evil West08:14 TV Show Discussions: King of the Hill and Daria14:16 Magic: The Gathering Updates and Bans25:21 Steam Machine: Valve's New Console27:08 Valve's New Innovations in Gaming Hardware35:21 The Future of Gaming Consoles and PCs43:08 Sony's Cross-Buy Feature and Market Competition44:04 Backyard Baseball: A Nostalgic Dive Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

On this week’s episode of The Game Deflators Podcast, John and Ryan share the latest additions to their gaming collections before diving into what they’re currently playing—John continues his long trek through The Witcher, while Ryan experiences Metal Gear Solid for the very first time. The duo then shift gears to industry news, discussing Nintendo’s recent revelation about the percentage of Switch 2 owners who upgraded from the original Switch, Tencent’s unusual “Mickey Mouse defense” in its court battle with Sony, and the U.S. Patent Office’s decision to reexamine Nintendo’s patent on summoning mechanics. Wrapping things up, the guys take a nostalgic detour with a quirky retro review of Mega Man Soccer for the SNES, debating whether this oddball spin-off is a hidden gem or simply a relic best left in the past.   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Current Games03:21 Nintendo's Patent Issues and Market Trends06:02 Exploring the Witcher Series and Gameplay Experiences09:04 Ryan's Metal Gear Solid Journey12:06 Dungeons & Dragons Update15:17 Nintendo's Switch 2 Sales and Consumer Loyalty18:13 Nintendo's Patent Controversy28:56 Patent Controversies and Gaming Mechanics32:43 The Impact of Competition on Nintendo34:44 Crafting Games and Market Dynamics36:53 Trademark Battles and Character Design45:29 Mega Man Soccer: A Frustrating Experience55:22 Outro   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

In this episode of The Game Deflators, John and Ryan welcome special guest Barry Carenza from PM Studios! Barry dives into the exciting lineup of upcoming titles from PM Studios and gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how ESRB ratings are set up for video games—yes, there's more to it than just slapping a letter on the box. The trio then tackles the latest legal drama surrounding Palworld, including updates on the Nintendo JPO patent denial and what it could mean for the game's future. In a surprising twist, they discuss the bombshell news of Halo making its way to the PS5—could this be the beginning of a new era in cross-platform gaming? To wrap things up, the crew takes a nostalgic trip back to the 16-bit hardwood with a review of NBA Jam for the SNES. Is it still "on fire" after all these years? 00:00 Introduction to the Gameplayers Podcast02:30 Recent Game Pickups and Personal Updates07:57 Current Gaming Experiences and Reviews12:49 The ESRB Rating Process Explained19:17 Behind the Scenes in Game Development25:53 Navigating Game Quests and Challenges31:17 Looking Ahead: Future Gaming Plans32:31 Nintendo's Legal Struggles with Pal World39:15 The Impact of Competition on Game Development44:16 The Patent Office and Legal Maneuvering54:13 The Evolution of Console Wars01:00:15 Microsoft and Sony: A New Era of Cooperation01:08:21 The Future of Gaming Resolutions01:11:23 The Xbox Performance Dilemma01:13:34 Physical vs Digital: The Game Ownership Debate01:20:53 NBA Jam: A Classic Revisited Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

In this episode of The Game Deflators podcast, hosts John and Ryan unpack a wide range of gaming topics with their signature blend of insight and nostalgia. They kick things off by sharing their latest game pickups and current playthroughs, offering listeners a peek into what’s hot on their consoles right now. The conversation takes a chilling turn as they revisit survival horror staples like Silent Hill and Dead Space, before diving into a full review of Dino Crisis on the original PlayStation. From its tense atmosphere and puzzle-driven gameplay to its place in Capcom’s horror legacy, John and Ryan break down what made Dino Crisis a standout—and why it still deserves attention today. They also weigh in on the future of Xbox consoles and dissect the strategic implications of Sony and Tencent’s collaboration efforts. 00:00 Introduction to the Gameplayers Podcast02:04 Recent Game Pickups and Experiences05:05 Exploring The Witcher: Gameplay and Quests08:22 Spooky Game Recommendations and Experiences10:26 Discussion on Alien Isolation and Horror Games12:38 Engaging with Dead Space and Game Mechanics14:01 Exploring Indie Games: Limbo and Inside15:34 The Medium: A Spooky Game Recommendation17:33 Struggles with Silksong: Progress and Challenges20:50 Dungeons and Dragons: Strixhaven Campaign Update29:47 AI in Creative Processes31:48 The Future of Xbox Consoles34:39 Microsoft's Pricing Strategy and Consumer Reactions39:49 The Impact of Corporate Decisions on Gaming Culture46:16 Sony and Tencent: IP Control and Collaboration53:49 Dino Crisis: A Look Back and Future Remakes   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

In this electrifying episode of the Game Deflators podcast, John and Ryan sit down with legendary game designer and animator Brian Colin, the creative force behind arcade classics like Rampage and Arch Rivals. Brian takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through the unpredictable early days of game development—described as the "Wild West" of the industry—and shares how a twist of fate launched his career in gaming. From the explosive success of Rampage to the surreal experience of seeing it adapted into a Hollywood blockbuster, Brian reflects on the highs and hurdles of his career. He opens up about the importance of finishing what you start, the power of team dynamics, and why passion is the lifeblood of great game creation. Plus, he teases his latest project: a long-awaited sequel to General Chaos. Whether you're a retro gaming fan or a budding developer, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and a few surprises—including Brian’s induction into the White Castle Hall of Fame. Tune in for a masterclass in creativity, collaboration, and chaos. 00:00 Introduction to the Game Inflators Podcast01:33 Brian Colin's Journey into Game Design05:20 The Wild West of Game Development09:36 Proud Moments in Game Creation11:55 The Rampage Movie Experience16:58 Challenges in Game Development20:02 Navigating Different Platforms26:54 The Future of Game Refuge29:48 Reflections on Industry Changes35:17 The Essential Elements of a Great Game38:06 Team Dynamics in Game Development 42:16 The Importance of Collaboration45:56 Parting Thoughts and Future Endeavors   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

This week on The Game Deflators, John and Ryan kick things off with their latest gaming pickups and a spoiler-filled discussion of Silent Hill f. The guys break down the ending and share whether it lived up to the series’ legacy—or left them scratching their heads. Next, it’s on to Magic: The Gathering, where recent comments from Mark Rosewater have reignited debate around Universes Beyond. Is Hasbro enriching the game with crossovers—or forcing them down players’ throats? Then the duo unpacks the buzz around a potential Nintendo hack. What’s the story, and how could it impact gamers and developers alike? Finally, they dive into a retro horror gem with a review of Siren on PS2. Does this stealth-heavy survival title still deliver the scares, or has time dulled its edge? 00:00 Introduction to the Game Deflators Podcast01:09 Gaming Pickups and Equipment07:18 Silent Hill F: Gameplay and Story Analysis27:14 Gaming Nostalgia and Spooky Season31:55 Magic: The Gathering's Universes Beyond Controversy44:09 The Future of Universes Beyond and Crossovers52:54 Magic Card Collecting and Pricing55:01 Nintendo Hacked: Implications for the Gaming Industry01:01:55 Siren: A Deep Dive into Gameplay and Mechanics01:17:29 Final Thoughts on Game Pricing and Value   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

In this episode of the Game Deflators Podcast, John and Ryan share their hands-on impressions of Silent Hill f, discussing their current progress in the game and how its unsettling atmosphere and narrative twists are stacking up so far. They also dive into industry-shaking rumors, including speculation that Xbox may be shifting away from console hardware to focus exclusively on cloud gaming, and the possibility of a new ad-supported free tier of Game Pass. The conversation heats up with analysis of the recent acquisition of Electronic Arts, exploring what this major move could mean for developers, franchises, and the future of AAA publishing. To round things out, the guys deliver a retro review of Clock Tower for the PS1, revisiting its haunting gameplay and its place in survival horror history.    Articles covered: https://www.ign.com/articles/microsoft-reportedly-testing-free-xbox-cloud-gaming-supported-by-ads-with-monthly-play-limits-announcement-and-launch-coming-soon https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/videogame-publisher-eas-55-billion-buyout-turns-spotlight-gaming-ip-2025-10-02/    Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

In this week’s episode of The Game Deflators, John and Ryan dive headfirst into the eerie world of Silent Hill f, sharing their early impressions and how the game’s unsettling progression is shaping up. But the horror doesn’t stop there—Magic: The Gathering’s Spider-Man set is spinning a web of disappointment with weak pre-release numbers and sluggish sales. The duo also tackles a major retail shake-up: Costco’s decision to pull all Xbox products from shelves and online. Is this a warning sign for Microsoft’s gaming future, or just a strategic pivot? Then it’s time to unravel the Silent Hill f steelbook fiasco at GameStop. Who dropped the ball, and why are collectors fuming? Finally, John and Ryan take a nostalgic detour with a full review of Gran Turismo 2 for the PS1—does this classic racer still hold up in 2025?   Articles covered: https://www.cbr.com/xbox-removed-from-costco-stores-america-tariffs-rising-prices/ https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/boards/383911-silent-hill-f/81046285   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

In this episode of The Game Deflators podcast, John and Ryan dive into a whirlwind of gaming topics.  Starting with their latest Magic: The Gathering pickups and Ray's experience with the Spiderman pre-release. The duo then shares what they’ve been playing lately, with John visiting the gritty fantasy world of The Witcher 1 and Ryan eagerly exploring the atmospheric depths of Hollow Knight: Silksong.  The conversation heats up as they dissect Nintendo’s lawsuit against Palworld, focusing on the unprecedented use of video game mods as courtroom evidence. What does this mean for modding communities, fan content, and the future of intellectual property enforcement in gaming? They also tackle Sony’s legal battle with Tencent, analyzing its impact on global gaming markets. With major players clashing, the hosts explore how these lawsuits could reshape the industry. Wrapping up the episode, the guys delivers a retro review of Prince of Persia 2 for the SNES, evaluating its gameplay, design, and legacy in the 16-bit era. Is this classic platformer still worth playing in 2025?    Articles covered: https://gamerant.com/nintendo-palworld-lawsuit-prior-art-defense-mods-response-explained/ https://www.eurogamer.net/tencent-responds-to-sony-lawsuit-against-slavish-horizon-clone-stating-its-claims-of-originality-are-startling   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

This week on the Game Deflators Podcast, John dives into some current gen PlayStation 2 accessories and his recent play of Prince of Persia Sands of Time. Meanwhile, Ryan’s deep into Silk Song, and he’s got thoughts—lots of them.  The duo also tackles Nintendo’s latest round of controversial patents, raising eyebrows across the gaming community. From overbroad language to stifling creativity, John and Ryan break down what these moves might mean for the future of the gaming industry.  Then it’s on to the September 2025 Nintendo Direct, which left both hosts feeling... underwhelmed. Missed opportunities, recycled hype, and a lack of punch—was this the weakest Direct in years? To wrap things up, the guys revisit Kirby: Nightmare in Dreamland for the Game Boy Advance. Is this puffball platformer still a dream to play, or has time dulled its charm?   Articles covered: https://gamerant.com/nintendo-palworld-lawsuit-character-summoning-battle-new-patent/ https://www.gamesradar.com/news/live/nintendo-direct-september-2025-live-everything-announced/   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

This week, John and Ryan kick things off with some fresh gaming pickups. John dives into his full playthrough of Neva, sharing thoughts on its emotional beats and visual storytelling, and gives a first-timer’s take on Beyblade Episode 1—no nostalgia goggles, just curiosity about the hype. Ryan’s been hands-on with Hollow Knight: Silksong, and while the gameplay hits hard, the guys unpack the early reviews and why some folks aren’t loving it. Is it fair criticism or just the internet doing its thing? They also recap their latest Dungeons & Dragons: Strixhaven session, where magical mayhem and academic drama collide. Expect spell-slinging, questionable decisions, and a few surprises from the party. In the news, the Switch 2 dev kit rollout is raising eyebrows—some developers still haven’t received theirs. John and Ryan speculate on what that means for Nintendo’s next-gen plans. And to wrap things up, it’s time for a retro review: Streets of Rage on the Sega Genesis. Does the classic brawler still hold up, or is it just pixelated nostalgia?   Articles covered: https://screenrant.com/hollow-knight-silksong-very-positive-steam-reviews/   https://www.pcmag.com/opinions/nintendos-backward-compatibility-is-ruining-the-switch-2     Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18 

This week on the Game Deflators Podcast, John and Ryan dive into a whirlwind of gaming goodness. Ryan returns from PAX West 2025 with fresh impressions, indie highlights, and a few surprises from the show floor. Meanwhile, John wraps up his journey through Final Fantasy VI with final thoughts on its legacy and storytelling, then jumps into the lush, emotional world of Neva PS5 for a first look at its gameplay and tone. The duo also share their latest Magic: The Gathering pickups—expect cardboard envy and collector chatter—and break down the latest De Minimis deals from Video Games Plus (VGP) and PlayAsia, including some niche finds and import oddities. And for this week’s retro review, it’s time to spin, slide, and smash through Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back on the PlayStation 1. Is it still a platforming gem, or has nostalgia clouded our judgment?   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18