The Gaming Duo

This week on The Gaming Duo, Kelvin and Rob dive into their full review of Resident Evil Requiem. From the story and new protagonist to the gameplay, combat, and atmosphere, we break down what Capcom got right — and the one area where the game may overstay its welcome.We discuss our first impressions jumping into the game, whether the narrative delivers, and how East Raccoon City impacts the overall pacing. Plus, does the RE Engine continue to impress on PS5, and where does Requiem rank among the modern Resident Evil titles?linktree: https://linktr.ee/GamingDuoPod

This week on The Gaming Duo, Bungie’s long-awaited extraction shooter Marathon has officially launched — and the internet already has strong opinions. We break down our first impressions of the gameplay, the day-one player numbers, and the microtransaction controversy that had the community up in arms. More importantly, Bungie responded within days with changes and fixes. Is that a good sign for the game’s future, or is Marathon already fighting an uphill battle in a post-Concord world?Then we shift to a massive industry shake-up: Xbox has officially confirmed its next-gen console, Project Helix. The big twist? It reportedly runs Windows, supports Steam and other PC storefronts, and may blur the line between console and gaming PC entirely. Is this the bold reinvention Xbox needs, or proof that the traditional console model is changing?We also discuss:Whether Marathon’s launch numbers are actually strongIf the extraction shooter market can support multiple big gamesWhat a Windows-powered Xbox means for the future of consolesEarly price predictions and concerns for Project HelixAll that plus our weekly gaming segment.

This week on The Gaming Duo, we share our initial impressions of Resident Evil 9: Requiem, breaking down the gameplay, story, tone, and where it ranks among past entries in the series.We also discuss the official reveal of Pokémon Wind and Pokémon Wave and what Gen 10 could mean for the future of the franchise following Scarlet and Violet.Plus, we react to the first look at Amazon’s God of War series and talk about whether the adaptation can capture what made the 2018 game so impactful.Episode 275 starts now.Discord Link: https://discord.gg/DDr9ARRDKZ

This week on The Gaming Duo, we break down major changes across the gaming industry.Phil Spencer retires after 38 years at Microsoft, and Sarah Bond exits Xbox. Microsoft names Asha Sharma, formerly an AI and platform executive, as the new CEO of Microsoft Gaming, with Matt Booty stepping into the role of Chief Content Officer. We discuss what this transition means for Xbox’s future, the direction of console and Game Pass, and how realistic Sharma’s early commitments are.We also cover Sony’s decision to shut down Bluepoint Games, the studio behind Demon’s Souls (PS5) and Shadow of the Colossus. What led to the closure, and what does it signal about PlayStation’s broader strategy?A big week for industry leadership and studio changes Gaming Duo Discord: https://discord.gg/X8ZAEREkGh

Episode 273 of The Gaming Duo is here—and we’re breaking down the aftermath of the February 2026 PlayStation State of Play with special guest The Friday Night Game Cast’s Nik. From hype reveals to absolutely unhinged hot takes, we give our full, unfiltered reactions to everything Sony showed and what it means for PlayStation’s future.We dive deep into the biggest announcements, including Kena: Scars of Kosmora, the cinematic reveal of an untitled John Wick game from Saber Interactive, and the return of gothic 2D action with Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse. The discussion keeps rolling with Star Wars: Galactic Racer, the newly dated 007 First Light, and Sony’s massive confirmation of a full God of War Trilogy Remake.And of course, we react to the surprise shadow drop of God of War: Sons of Sparta, available right now, and debate whether this smaller-scale Kratos story hits as hard as the mainline entries.Hosted by Kelvin Rolon and Rob Garcia, with guest Nik, this episode is packed with reactions, debates, and takes you’ll definitely want to argue about.🎮 Episode 273 starts… NOW.Friday Night GameCast: https://linktr.ee/FridayNightGamecastGaming Duo Discord: https://discord.gg/Y6fb7xjj4V

This week on The Gaming Duo, we’re gearing up for PlayStation’s State of Play on February 12, 2026, and breaking down everything we expect to see—joined by special guest and honorary third member of the show, Samurai Kibiji.We discuss what PlayStation has confirmed so far, including the focus on third-party and indie titles, potential updates from PlayStation Studios, and over an hour of announcements and gameplay. Then we dive into our predictions and wish list, touching on titles like Wolverine, Kingdom Hearts IV, the next Final Fantasy VII, Intergalactic, and some hopeful Bloodborne talk.Whether you’re watching live or catching the highlights after, this episode gets you ready for everything PlayStation might have in store.Gaming Duo Discord Server: https://discord.gg/B7YYMvZtZ2Samurai Kibiji Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@SamuraiKibiji

This week on The Gaming Duo, we’re joined by Nik Hagialas, Co-Owner and Lead Artist at Red Essence Games, to talk all about their debut hand-painted action RPG, Traveler’s Refrain.With over a decade of experience working on projects for Disney, Dungeons & Dragons, and Fantasy Flight Games, Nik breaks down how Traveler’s Refrain came to life — from its earliest inspirations to years of development between longtime friends. We dive into the game’s standout song-casting mechanic, where music drives both combat and world interaction, and how that idea evolved throughout development.To wrap things up, Nik answers our signature Gaming Duo questions, shares what he’s playing right now, and offers advice for aspiring indie developers.🎮 Traveler’s Refrain is available now on Steam redessencegames.comPurchase Travelers Refrain here: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2679660/Travelers_Refrain/ Be part of the Gaming Duo Community by joining our discord server: https://discord.gg/B7YYMvZtZ2

This week on The Gaming Duo, we dive deep into Traveler’s Refrain, the music-driven action RPG from Red Essence Games that blends combat, melody, and melancholy into a surprisingly powerful indie experience. Wielding a magical bouzouki, Traveler’s Refrain asks a bold question: what if music wasn’t just atmosphere but the heart of gameplay, storytelling, and self-discovery?We break down how song-casting works in combat and exploration, whether the music mechanics feel meaningful or gimmicky, and how the game balances rhythm-adjacent action without becoming a full rhythm game. From its atmospheric world design and light puzzle-solving to its emotional themes of memory, loss, and longing, we discuss who this game is really for and why its smaller scope may actually be its greatest strength.We also dig into the game’s minimalist storytelling approach, pacing, and overall length, along with its biggest strengths and shortcomings. Plus, we wrap things up with our recommendation and final score.If you love emotionally driven indie games like Transistor, Hyper Light Drifter, or Death’s Door, this is one journey you won’t want to miss.Discord link: https://discord.gg/B7YYMvZtZ2

This week on The Gaming Duo, we break down everything shown at Xbox Developer Direct 2026—and yeah, this one actually hit. From a full gameplay deep dive on Fable to Forza Horizon 6 finally heading to Japan, we go game by game through Xbox’s most focused showcase yet.We talk big surprises like Beast of Reincarnation from Game Freak, Double Fine’s wonderfully weird Kiln, and whether Xbox’s gameplay-first approach signals real momentum heading into 2026. Plus, we dig into High Guard—what it is, how it could launch, and whether it’s a sleeper hit in the making.On the news side, we unpack Ubisoft canceling multiple projects, including Prince of Persia, and what that says about the company’s future, legacy IPs, and creative risk-taking.Is Xbox finally delivering on its promises? Which game stole the show? And how important is 2026 for Xbox’s future?Episode 270 starts… NOW.Discord Link: https://discord.gg/B7YYMvZtZ2

This week on The Gaming Duo, we go all-in on Capcom’s explosive Resident Evil 9: Requiem showcase and what it means for the future of the franchise. From Leon’s brutal new combat style and dynamic stealth gameplay to unsettling zombies with human personalities and a mysterious scar that could change everything, we break down the biggest reveals and ask: could this be the best Resident Evil yet?We also react to reports of a Resident Evil: Code Veronica remake, discuss major casting news with Ryan Hurst stepping into the role of Kratos for Amazon’s God of War series and Sophie Turner becoming the new Lara Croft in Tomb Raider, and cover the surprising shutdown of Amazon’s MMO New World. Plus, we break down the newly revealed Lego Ocarina of Time set.Discord Link: https://discord.gg/B7YYMvZtZ2

This week on The Gaming Duo, we break down Xbox’s Developer Direct 2026 and what it tells us about which games could actually launch this year. We also react to leaked Steam Machine pricing that suggests a premium push from Valve, and dive into ongoing GTA 6 delay rumors as confidence in its 2026 release date gets tested.Rate and review the show on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and join our Discord—where friendships are built through gaming.Discord link: https://discord.gg/B7YYMvZtZ2

This week on The Gaming Duo, we break down the games we’re most hyped for in 2026, discuss why graphics cards are about to get a lot more expensive, and react to rumors that The Witcher 3 could be getting surprise new content nearly a decade later.Rate and review the show on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and join our Discord—where friendships are built through gaming. Discord: https://discord.gg/vVMudTUhhttps://discord.gg/vVMudTUh

This week on The Gaming Duo, we dive into one of the most heated debates in gaming right now: generative AI. Following the Expedition 33 awards controversy, we break down why its Indie Game Awards wins were rescinded, how AI was used during development, and what this means for the future of awards and transparency in the industry. We also discuss Larian Studios’ response after CEO Swen Vincke addressed backlash over AI use for early ideation — and where the line should be drawn between innovation and creative integrity.Plus, the gaming news you need to know, including Bungie’s Marathon losing its senior art director and Hollow Knight: Silksong receiving a major free DLC expansion.If you’re enjoying the show, leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and join our Discord community, where friendships are built through gaming.Join The Gaming Duo Discord Server:https://discord.gg/B7YYMvZtZ2

This week on The Gaming Duo, we break down The Game Awards 2025 — the biggest reveals, hype moments, and whether this year’s show actually delivered. From surprise announcements to standout trailers, we cover what worked, what didn’t, and how this TGA stacks up against past years.We also look ahead to the games we’re most excited for in 2026, including which announcements instantly jumped to the top of our hype lists.Plus, the gaming news you need to know, featuring major updates from Star Wars, Tomb Raider, Resident Evil, Pragmata, Diablo IV, and more.If you’re enjoying the show, leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and join our Discord community, where friendships are built through gaming.Join The Gaming Duo Discord Server: https://discord.gg/B7YYMvZtZ2

This week on The Gaming Duo, we’re revealing our top 3 games of 2025 — with one rule: no Expedition 33. What surprised us? What stood out? And which games defined our year?We also dive into our first impressions of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and review Dispatch from ad-Hoc Studios — breaking down what hits, what misses, and whether it's worth your playtime.Plus, the gaming news you need to know:Netflix’s $82.7B purchase of Warner Bros DiscoveryThe mysterious Game Awards statue everyone’s trying to decodeIf you’re enjoying the show, leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and join our Discord community.Join the Gaming Duo Discord Server: https://discord.gg/B7YYMvZtZ2

This week on The Gaming Duo, we’re skipping the news and going all-in on our Game Awards 2025 predictions. Rob and Kelvin break down the biggest categories, share their picks, debate surprises and snubs, and talk about which games truly deserve the spotlight.We also give our quick thoughts on the new Tides of Annihilation: “Break the Mirror” trailer.If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to leave us a review and join our Discord community, where friendships are built through gaming.Join our discord: https://discord.gg/B7YYMvZtZ2

This week on The Gaming Duo — Valve officially steps into the console arena with the new Steam Machine, Black Ops 7 requires a constant online connection (even in single-player…), and early Metroid Prime 4 previews have longtime fans raising eyebrows.We’ve got all that and so much more… Episode 261 starts NOW.We’re your hosts Rob (@RidicRob) and Kelvin (@Foxphotons), and this week we’re joined by a very special guest: Kayla from JK! Games, cohost of Drop In Drop Out and Clickerbait, their Last of Us TV series podcast. Make sure to check out Jerica, Josh, and Kayla over at JK! Games here:👉 https://linktr.ee/jkgames

This week on The Gaming Duo, Sony makes moves with cloud gaming and PC cross buy. Is Sony following in Microsoft's footsteps? GTA 6 gets delayed AGAIN alongside Marvel 1943 and Halo Infinite's 10-year plan comes to an unexpected end. Plus, we discuss the Sony State of Play Japan and what this means for future State of PlaysThis week Tony (@SamuraiKibiji) co host alongside Kelvin (@Foxphotons)!💬 Join the conversation on Discord:⁠https://discord.gg/SpRM56Da⁠

This week on The Gaming Duo, we’re talking about what might be the most stacked Game of the Year lineup ever. From Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 to Hollow Knight: Silksong, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive years in gaming — but which title truly deserves the crown?We’re joined by Danny Peña, returning guest and host of Gamertag Radio, along with first-time guest Parris Lilly! Together, we break down our top GOTY contenders, share favorite moments from this year in gaming, and talk about what makes a true Game of the Year standout.💬 Join the conversation on Discord:https://discord.gg/SpRM56Da🎧 Check out Gamertag Radio:https://open.spotify.com/show/06iGnWl5EnkJktsKhSNeAQ🎙️ And don’t miss Danny’s latest interview with Tetsuya Mizuguchi, creator of Lumines Arise:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6HRTyYNUNZOX8TBMb9hO1S

This week on The Gaming Duo, Halo finally breaks free from Xbox coming to PlayStation 5. We’re joined once again by Tony, aka Samurai Kibiji, to navigate what this massive move means for both Xbox and PlayStation’s futures.We also dive into the rumored Battlefield 6 battle royale mode that could launch this week and discuss Xbox President Sarah Bond’s bold statement that exclusives are officially outdated.Strap in Episode 258 of The Gaming Duo starts now!🎮 Topics this week:Halo Campaign Evolved heads to PS5 the Unreal Engine 5 remake we never thought we’d seeBattlefield 6’s rumored Battle Royale mode arriving soonXbox says “the idea of exclusives is antiquated” what does that mean for gaming’s future?💬 Join the conversation on Discord⁠https://discord.gg/Au2B4ATtCheck out Samurai Kibiji's content https://www.youtube.com/@SamuraiKibiji