The Game Deflators

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 Welcome 06:14 Recent Game Pickups and Reviews 09:20 Current Gaming Experiences 12:11 Discussion on Game Technology and Trends 15:10 Exploring GameStop's New Initiatives 26:38 GameStop's Unique Trade-In Promotion 29:31 The Chaos of Trade-In Day 32:49 YouTube and Social Media Buzz 35:06 Generational Shifts in Gaming Preferences 39:25 AI's Role in Gaming and Content Creation 45:45 The Future of AI in Gaming 54:48 NHL Hitz Game Mechanics and Gameplay Experience 01:02:25 Game Pricing and Value Assessment 01:10:11 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 Podcast 01:25 Game Pickups and Collectibles 03:16 Exploring Board Games: Aldara and Twilight Imperium 06:16 Current Gaming Experiences: The Witcher and Evil West 08:14 TV Show Discussions: King of the Hill and Daria 14:16 Magic: The Gathering Updates and Bans 25:21 Steam Machine: Valve's New Console 27:08 Valve's New Innovations in Gaming Hardware 35:21 The Future of Gaming Consoles and PCs 43:08 Sony's Cross-Buy Feature and Market Competition 44:04 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 Games 03:21 Nintendo's Patent Issues and Market Trends 06:02 Exploring the Witcher Series and Gameplay Experiences 09:04 Ryan's Metal Gear Solid Journey 12:06 Dungeons & Dragons Update 15:17 Nintendo's Switch 2 Sales and Consumer Loyalty 18:13 Nintendo's Patent Controversy 28:56 Patent Controversies and Gaming Mechanics 32:43 The Impact of Competition on Nintendo 34:44 Crafting Games and Market Dynamics 36:53 Trademark Battles and Character Design 45:29 Mega Man Soccer: A Frustrating Experience 55:22 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 Podcast 02:30 Recent Game Pickups and Personal Updates 07:57 Current Gaming Experiences and Reviews 12:49 The ESRB Rating Process Explained 19:17 Behind the Scenes in Game Development 25:53 Navigating Game Quests and Challenges 31:17 Looking Ahead: Future Gaming Plans 32:31 Nintendo's Legal Struggles with Pal World 39:15 The Impact of Competition on Game Development 44:16 The Patent Office and Legal Maneuvering 54:13 The Evolution of Console Wars 01:00:15 Microsoft and Sony: A New Era of Cooperation 01:08:21 The Future of Gaming Resolutions 01:11:23 The Xbox Performance Dilemma 01:13:34 Physical vs Digital: The Game Ownership Debate 01:20:53 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 Podcast 02:04 Recent Game Pickups and Experiences 05:05 Exploring The Witcher: Gameplay and Quests 08:22 Spooky Game Recommendations and Experiences 10:26 Discussion on Alien Isolation and Horror Games 12:38 Engaging with Dead Space and Game Mechanics 14:01 Exploring Indie Games: Limbo and Inside 15:34 The Medium: A Spooky Game Recommendation 17:33 Struggles with Silksong: Progress and Challenges 20:50 Dungeons and Dragons: Strixhaven Campaign Update 29:47 AI in Creative Processes 31:48 The Future of Xbox Consoles 34:39 Microsoft's Pricing Strategy and Consumer Reactions 39:49 The Impact of Corporate Decisions on Gaming Culture 46:16 Sony and Tencent: IP Control and Collaboration 53:49 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 Podcast 01:33 Brian Colin's Journey into Game Design 05:20 The Wild West of Game Development 09:36 Proud Moments in Game Creation 11:55 The Rampage Movie Experience 16:58 Challenges in Game Development 20:02 Navigating Different Platforms 26:54 The Future of Game Refuge 29:48 Reflections on Industry Changes 35:17 The Essential Elements of a Great Game 38:06 Team Dynamics in Game Development  42:16 The Importance of Collaboration 45:56 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 Podcast 01:09 Gaming Pickups and Equipment 07:18 Silent Hill F: Gameplay and Story Analysis 27:14 Gaming Nostalgia and Spooky Season 31:55 Magic: The Gathering's Universes Beyond Controversy 44:09 The Future of Universes Beyond and Crossovers 52:54 Magic Card Collecting and Pricing 55:01 Nintendo Hacked: Implications for the Gaming Industry 01:01:55 Siren: A Deep Dive into Gameplay and Mechanics 01:17:29 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 

In this week’s episode of The Game Deflators, John and Ryan dive into their latest pickups—from video games to spicy new Magic: The Gathering cards—and share updates on what’s been dominating their playtime lately. But the real chaos begins with the ripple effect of Hollow Knight: Silksong’s release date announcement, as developers scramble to dodge the indie titan’s shadow. The duo also break down Critical Role’s Season 4 decision to stick with Dungeons & Dragons over their own system, Daggerheart. What does this mean for the future of actual play content and tabletop publishing? And finally, strap in for a high-octane discussion of Twisted Metal on the PS1. Does the vehicular mayhem still hold up, or has nostalgia taken the wheel? Articles covered: https://www.gamespot.com/articles/silksong-release-date-has-already-prompted-two-game-delays/1100-6534203/   https://www.wargamer.com/dnd/critical-role-campaign-4-west-marches      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 the cardboard chaos of Magic: The Gathering, unpacking their latest pickups and sounding off on the absurdity of collector booster prices. Is Wizards of the Coast pricing out its own fanbase? Meanwhile, John shares his progress on Final Fantasy VI and The Witcher, revealing whether pixel nostalgia or monster hunting is winning his attention. In the news, Nintendo stirs controversy by greenlighting Palland for the eShop, despite its uncanny resemblance to Palworld—a game currently embroiled in legal drama. Is this a bold move or a blunder? And for this week’s retro review, the duo takes a slippery slide into Super Mario Sunshine for the GameCube. Does this tropical platformer still shine, or is it just a soggy mess?   Articles covered: https://www.gamesradar.com/games/survival/with-the-palworld-lawsuit-rumbling-on-in-the-background-the-nintendo-switch-welcomes-palland-a-survival-game-that-looks-a-whole-lot-like-pocketpairs-creature-collector/   https://draftsim.com/spider-man-cbb-prices/     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