The Game Deflators

John and Ryan are joined by Allie and Sarah of Astral Clocktower Studios to talk about their ARPG, Kristala.  Kristala places you in the role of a feral feline warrior who must master the six magic specialties of the sacred Kristals to prove yourself worthy of joining ranks with the famed Raksaka warriors - powerful protectors of your species. As you battle your way across the six clan lands, you soon discover a terrible curse has mysteriously transformed Ailur's creatures into mutated, monstrous beasts bent on destruction. Uncover and upgrade a multitude of weapons, spells, armor sets, and additional items as you embark on your Raksaka Proving and strategically battle to restore peace to Ailur. Meet and interact with unique and varied characters while journeying across an otherworldly fantasy planet that's overflowing with untold stories ripe for unraveling. About the studio: Astral Clocktower Studios is a women-owned game development studio based in the Northeast US. Founded in 2018 by Alexis Brutman, Tiffany Gomez, and Sarah Schaffstall, the ACS dev team has since grown into a rich and culturally diverse family of 30+ creators hailing from all over the world. The Astral Clocktower culture and key pillars are centered around celebrating diversity, equality, and inclusion in the traditionally male-dominated gaming space. We encourage an “open door” atmosphere, free from judgement, that celebrates the vast and diverse cultures our team members represent and bring to our family. We hope to share our unique voice and fresh perspective with the gaming industry and strive to inspire gamers from all walks of life with diverse and relatable characters, immersive storylines, impactful themes, and smart gameplay mechanics. Learn more at www.astralclocktowerstudios.com    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 

Addicting gameplay of Balatro, the recent fallout from Magic the Gatherings commander bans and the equally disappointing season 3 launch of suicide squad kill the justice league. In this episode of The Game Deflators Podcast, John and Ryan dive into the latest updates in the world of tabletop and video games. They kickstart the conversation with recent gaming pickups and Ryan's ongoing addiction to Balatro. The guys then discuss the recent bans in Magic: The Gathering Commander bans and their perspective on the situation.  But that’s not all! Suicide Squad continues to get dragged through the mud and the Game Deflators indulge in the painful experience that is Dungeons and Dragons Dark Alliance for the PS5, sharing their thoughts on its gameplay, graphics, and overall experience.    Articles Covered: https://www.thegamer.com/magic-the-gathering-wizards-of-the-coast-warned-rules-committee-commander-bans/    https://gamerant.com/suicide-squad-kill-justice-league-lawless-s3-original-character-bad-why/?      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 are joined by Jim from Crit Hit Con to dive deep into the world of board games, tabletop RPGs (TTRPGs), and trading card games (TCGs). The guys explore the learning curves of popular games like Magic: The Gathering (MTG) and Dungeons & Dragons (DND), and discuss how skills developed across varying games can translate to other franchises. The trio also take a closer look at the unique and gritty world of Mork Borg and the hacks gamers across the globe have created. Plus, the big question: As a Game Master (GM), are you open to running the same campaign for new players? Discover the replayability of TTRPGs and how different groups can bring new life to familiar adventures. Interested in exploring new TTRPGs? Check out the Mork Borg compatible Chainsaw https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/driftwoodarchives/chainsaw    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 

Nintendo Lawsuits, video game reviews and the latest leaks for the Nintendo Switch 2. In this week’s episode of The Game Deflators Podcast, John and Ryan dive into their preferences for video game reviews, comparing insights from professional critics to those from general viewers. They discuss how each perspective can shape a gamer’s experience and decision-making process. The guys also discuss the recent Nintendo lawsuit against Palworld creator Pocketpair, examining Nintendo's reasoning and predictions as to how the lawsuit may end. Additionally, John and Ryan explore the latest Nintendo Switch 2 rumors, speculating on its features from recent photo's leaked and when Nintendo may unveil/open up pre-orders. To cap off the episode, the Game Deflators review Demon Stone for the PlayStation 2, sharing their thoughts on its gameplay, story, and overall value it could add to your collection.   Articles Covered: https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2024/09/nintendo-and-pokemon-file-lawsuit-against-palworld-developer-pocketpair  https://gamerant.com/nintendo-switch-2-photo-leak-geekshare-real-legitimate-x6-prototype/    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 discuss game worlds to the would want to live in, a new PS5 console with a price tag in the stratosphere and Switch 2 rumors of a price and announcement. And for our retro gaming enthusiasts, we take a nostalgic trip back to the SNES era with a review of Eye of the Beholder. Is it still worth playing today? Tune in to find out!   Articles Covered: https://wccftech.com/ps5-pro-like-pc-would-cost-a-fair-bit-more-says-df-rtx-4070-is-the-closest-gpu/    https://www.tomsguide.com/gaming/nintendo-switch-2-leaker-just-tipped-price-and-launch-date      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 

PS5 Pro Rumors, updates for Concord and endless adventures in a Dungeons and Dragons campaign. In this week’s episode of The Game Deflators Podcast, we dive into the magical world of Dungeons & Dragons and share the exciting details from the first few sessions of out new campaign. But that’s not all! Rumors are swirling that a major PS5 announcement is just around the corner. Could this be Sony’s strategic move to overshadow the lackluster launch of Concord? And for our retro gaming enthusiasts, we take a nostalgic trip back to the NES era with a review of the classic game, Wizardry. Is it still worth playing today? Tune in to find out!   Articles Covered: https://wccftech.com/playstation-5-pro-announced-state-of-play/  Concord to be taken offline on September 6 as Sony Interactive Entertainment ‘determines the best path ahead’ - Gematsu    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 

Video Game to movie and television adaptations, recent pickups and the final wrestling game for the month. On this week's episode of the Game Deflators podcast John and Ryan are joined by Javier of the Open Bar Miami podcast to talk about their their favorite video game to movie and television adaptations. Listen in to hear what made their list. The guys continue the discussion with their thoughts on the recently announced Secret Level Amazon Prime show and a bonus review of the Borderlands movie. Capping of the episode John, Ryan and Javier review AEW Fight Forever for the PS5. An almost spiritual successor to WWF No Mercy, does AEW's first major video game hit the mark?   Articles Covered: https://kotaku.com/secret-level-amazon-armored-core-playstation-keanu-1851627812  https://www.gamesradar.com/games/borderlands/barely-3-weeks-after-its-dollar90m-flop-the-borderlands-movie-is-reportedly-giving-up-on-cinemas-and-going-straight-to-streaming/    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 

Hard video games, Magic the Gathering reprints and Sony's latest flop on this week's episode of the Game Deflators Podcast. John and Ryan kickstart the episode with a discussion on on Souls-like games and whether adaptive difficulties are needed to for some gamers. The guys then shift their eyes towards possible reprints of controversial Magic the Gathering cards, the early death of Concord for the PS5. As a bonus discussion topic, Ryan provides at update on his new Dungeons and Dragons campaign. Capping off the episode the Game Deflators review WWF No Mercy for the Nintendo 64. Considered one of the greatest wrestling video games of all time, but is the $30 loose cart value the right price to play?   Articles Covered: https://www.thegamer.com/magic-the-gathering-mtg-head-designer-confirms-the-one-ring-reprints-possible/ https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2024/08/24/playstations-concord-did-not-break-700-players-on-steam-on-launch-day/   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 special 300th episode of the Game Deflators podcast John and Ryan are joined by podcast friends Barry Carenza of Premium Edition Games and Nintendo Fuse, Darren Hupke of 32 Bit Library and Pixels and Polygons, and John Roo of the Retro Room. The guys sit back to talk about their least favorite video game console from Sega, Nintendo, Sony, or Microsoft, the console they would like to start their children with and the legacy they want to leave behind in gaming. Also on this episode are recent gaming pickups and titles each speaker is currently playing.   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 world of video game collectors and the expectation of their games maintaining value in an age dominated by digital releases and reprints. The guys also tackle the hot topic of video game vape pens aimed at younger audiences and discuss a streamer’s ambitious attempt to break the record for most consecutive days awake while live. On this episode John provides an update of his progress with The Medium, Alundra and The Lord of the Rings: Gollum. Breaking away from video games for a little; Ryan talks about his plans to develop a cube for his Magic the Gathering table and some of the considerations to be made to keep repacks feeling fresh. Wrapping things up, the duo reviews Fire Pro Wrestling Returns for the PS2. This wrestling game features hundreds of characters, various match stipulations, and an arcade feel—all for under $15. Is it worth adding to your collection?   Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Articles Covered https://nypost.com/2024/08/10/us-news/new-smart-vapes-attract-kids-with-built-in-video-games/    https://gamerant.com/youtuber-stream-over-200-hours-no-sleep/    Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Game Deflators Logo Created by J_Ricks_Art 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 have a discussion about the new Deadpool Wolverine movie, GameStop's killing blow to Game Informer and a new petition overseas that seeks to hold gaming companies accountable for videogames they no longer support. Capping off the episode, the guys review Rumble Roses for the PS2. Essentially a fan service wrestling game but with surprisingly great mechanics. At $30+ is it a worthwhile game or just a spec buy? Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Articles Covered https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/if-1-million-people-sign-a-petition-a-ban-on-rendering-multiplayer-games-unplayable-has-a-chance-to-become-law-in-europe/    https://kotaku.com/game-informer-gamestop-meme-stock-gme-last-issue-1851611973    Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Game Deflators Logo Created by J_Ricks_Art 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 is joined by Barry Carenza of Premium Edition Games for a discussion on the company's Summer 2024 direct. During this episode you will hear some behind the scenes details on how the company works with Sony and Nintendo to print video games and the next big titles to pre-order. Watch the direct at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMkHE8hjI80  Also on this episode, the guys also talk about the newest Lego Mario set, how Activision is dealing with cheaters and a review of Kung Fu Chaos on the original XBOX. Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Articles Covered https://gamerant.com/activision-shut-down-call-of-duty-cheaters-makers/ https://www.nintendo.com/us/whatsnew/nostalgic-super-mario-world-mario-and-yoshi-set-revealed-at-san-diego-comic-con/   Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Game Deflators Logo Created by J_Ricks_Art 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 is joined by Chris from the Open Bar Miami Podcast for a discussion on the best sports video game franchise of all time. They delve into the history, gameplay, and impact of various franchises, to finally settle the debate. The episode also features an in-depth look at EA’s new College Football 25. John and Chris explore the game’s features, improvements over previous versions, and its potential impact on the sports gaming community. They also question who a new Pickleball game is aimed at and video games of similar nature released in years past. To wrap up the episode, John and Chris review Mortal Kombat: Deception for the PS2. They discuss its gameplay mechanics, mini games, and how it compares to other titles in the Mortal Kombat series. Despite being one of the more highly rated games in the franchise, they examine whether it has truly stood the test of time. Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Gaming News Covered: https://gamerant.com/ppa-pickleball-tour-2025-video-game-release-launch  https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianmazique/2024/07/16/10-things-i-learned-about-ea-college-football-25-in-the-first-48-hours/    Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators Threads @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Game Deflators Logo Created by J_Ricks_Art 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 is joined by Will of the PlayStation Ain't Dead Podcast to discuss video games you might be embarrassed to have in your collection, the recent announcement of XBOX live price increases and what Hasbro has done to piss off Magic the Gathering players in the newest set release. To wrap up the episode, John and Will review Marvel vs Capcom 2 for the PS2 and PS3. One of the most revered fighting games of all time with a collection on the horizon; but will the game remain at a $150+ price tag? Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Gaming News Covered: https://variety.com/2024/gaming/news/xbox-game-pass-price-increase-ultimate-day-one-releases-1236066476/  https://www.destructoid.com/mtg-fans-are-furious-about-what-bloomburrows-value-booster-represents/   Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators Threads @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Game Deflators Logo Created by J_Ricks_Art 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, hosts John and Ryan explore the latest rules and monetization strategies in Dungeons and Dragons. The guys also discuss the final nail in the coffin of the Wii U and Nintendo's efforts to protect its intellectual properties by taking on the internet and Rule 34.  For the main discussion, John shares his experiences at Crit Hit AZ and explains why it’s a must-attend event for those in the valley. To wrap up the episode, John and Ryan review One Piece Grand Battle for the Nintendo GameCube. Despite being a bit dated, this fighting game from the One Piece franchise still holds some charm. But is it worth the $35 price tag? Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Gaming News Covered: https://www.pcgamer.com/games/d-d-s-lead-rules-designer-admits-he-changed-some-spells-because-of-how-painful-and-excruciating-to-cast-they-were-in-baldur-s-gate-3/   https://www.pcgamer.com/games/oh-for-goodness-sake-d-d-has-early-access-periods-and-pre-order-bonuses-now-like-a-3d-model-of-a-dragon-for-a-virtual-tabletop-that-doesn-t-exist-yet/ https://www.eurogamer.net/nintendo-pledges-action-over-inappropriate-use-of-its-characters-so-players-not-made-to-feel-uncomfortable    https://www.gamesradar.com/hardware/rest-in-peace-wii-u-nintendo-bids-an-even-more-final-farewell-to-its-dead-console-after-finally-running-out-of-the-parts-needed-to-fix-them/      Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators Threads @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Game Deflators Logo Created by J_Ricks_Art 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, hosts John and Ryan dive into the latest gaming news and trends. They discuss the recent Sony layoffs and what it means for the future of physical media. They also analyze the declining player numbers for Helldivers 2 and the possible reasons for the declining playerbase. Special guest Jim from Crit Hit AZ joins the conversation to provide updates on the upcoming event, including details about vendors, contests, and games that will be featured. Capping off the podcast episode, John and Ryan review Gollum for the PS5, a game that has faced significant criticism. Tune in to hear their thoughts on whether the negative reviews are justified. Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Gaming News Covered: https://gamerant.com/helldivers-2-player-count-down-steam-charts/  https://www.thegamer.com/sony-is-reportedly-gradually-stopping-production-of-blu-ray-discs-physical-media-collectors/    Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators Threads @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Game Deflators Logo Created by J_Ricks_Art 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, join John and Ryan as they discuss their thoughts on all items revealed during the recent Nintendo Direct. The conversation continues as the guys question if the eventual lifetime Switch console sales overtaking the PS2 needs an asterisk, new comments from Microsoft regarding the closure of a popular studio, and rumors that your PS5 may soon be able to play PS3 games natively. Wrapping up, the duo plays some Dead Cells for the PS4. A fast paced rougelite video game at an affordable price point, but it is worth splurging on versions with DLC? Want more Game Deflators content? Find us at www.thegamedeflators.com     Gaming News Covered: https://www.eurogamer.net/matt-booty-implies-tango-gameworks-closure-was-partly-due-to-leadership-change  https://gamerant.com/sony-native-ps3-backwards-compatibility-in-development-rumor/    Find us on Social Media Twitter @GameDeflators Instagram @TheGameDeflators Facebook @TheGameDeflators Threads @TheGameDeflators YouTube @The Game Deflators   Game Deflators Logo Created by J_Ricks_Art 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, join John and Ryan as they delve into the latest Xbox showcase, sharing their anticipation for upcoming titles. The conversation continues as the guys discuss the contentious banana-themed games on Steam, pondering Steam’s potential response, and exploring the implications of Sea of Thieves’ successful PlayStation debut for Sony’s Live Service future. Wrapping up, the duo puts plays some Lollipop Chainsaw for the PS3. A quirky zombie killing game with crude humor and fast paced combat, but is the $75 tag justified? 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   Game Deflators Logo Created by J_Ricks_Art 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 kick off the episode with a comprehensive review of the 2024 Summer Games Fest, sharing their candid thoughts and insights on the event’s highlights and areas for improvement. John updates listeners on his journey through Alundra on the PS1, while Ryan unfolds his adventures in Paper Mario and the Thousand-Year Door. The conversation continues with the shifting tides in the gaming industry, marking the end of the console wars and the rise of a new battleground: the handheld wars. Wrapping up, the duo puts McFarlane’s Evil Prophecy for the PS2 under the microscope. Despite the game’s notoriously low reviews, John and Ryan dissect whether it truly merits such a harsh reception. Tune in to find out if this underdog deserves a second chance! 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   Game Deflators Logo Created by J_Ricks_Art 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 welcome special guest Jim from Crit Hit Con, as they delve into the latest updates for the much-anticipated TTRPG convention set to take place in Mesa, Arizona, this July. They’ll explore the evolution of Dungeons & Dragons, contrasting the game’s earlier editions with the modern mechanics of 5th Edition. John and Ryan then discuss the recent decision by Paramount+ to cancel the Dungeons & Dragons live-action series, sharing their insights on the implications for fans and the franchise. Additionally, they provide their analysis on Sony’s May State of Play and what they are looking forward to. Moreover, John and Ryan discuss intriguing financial reports that reveal how the spending patterns of PS5 gamers stack up against those of PS4 gamers. They examine the factors driving these trends and what it suggests about current gen gamers.. Wrapping up the episode, the guys play Ehrgeiz for the PS1. This unique fighting game, known for its quest mode, minigames, and inclusion of Final Fantasy characters, comes with a hefty price tag of over $80. They’ll debate whether this title is worth the investment for collectors and fans of the Final Fantasy series. 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   Game Deflators Logo Created by J_Ricks_Art Permission for intro and outro music provided by Matthew Huffaker http://www.youtube.com/user/teknoaxe 2_25_18