Valve's new FPS MOBA, Deadlock, impresses with innovative gameplay and unique mechanics like zip lines. The discussion also delves into the emotional rollercoaster of competitive gaming, balancing skill and enjoyment. A quirky co-op game featuring defending cats adds a lighthearted touch, while insights into grand strategy games and nostalgic gaming experiences highlight the depth of the genre. The rich lore of Warhammer 40K: Space Marine II captivates new players, making it a must-explore for fans.
Deadlock has received a positive reception, surprising hosts who initially doubted its FPS MOBA concept's engagement level.
The growing trend toward community engagement illustrates the podcast's commitment to fostering deeper connections with listeners through support platforms like Patreon.
The hosts recognize a shift in the gaming landscape, emphasizing innovative gameplay as indie titles emerge amidst the saturation of live service games.
Deep dives
Introduction of New Games
The discussion highlights the introduction of new games such as Deadlock and Space Marine 2, which captures the interest of the hosts. They share their experiences and perspectives on these titles, indicating that Deadlock, despite initial skepticism regarding its FPS MOBA nature, has proven to be more engaging than anticipated. Particularly, they address the growing trend in gaming towards engaging multiplayer experiences that continue to evolve and attract players. Space Marine 2 garners excitement due to its connection to the beloved Warhammer universe, sparking discussions about the previous game's lore and its impact on fan expectations.
Community and Engagement
The hosts emphasize the importance of community engagement through platforms like Patreon, highlighting the rewards and support systems in place for listeners. They discuss plans for attending conventions and the opportunity for interviews with game developers, further enriching the listener experience. These interactions illustrate a desire to build a stronger community around their content, inviting fans to participate actively. Overall, this segment underscores the role of community in shaping the future of the podcast and its content offerings.
Game Streaming and Technology Advancements
The introduction of built-in screen recording features in platforms like Steam drew attention among the hosts, as they discussed the frustrations associated with existing software like Nvidia's Shadowplay. The Steam recording tool offers advantages such as automatic recording of gameplay without invasive setups, enhancing the convenience for content creators. The hosts share their experiences testing this new feature, expressing optimism about its potential once fully released. This indicates a broader trend in gaming technology aimed at simplifying the streaming and recording process for players.
Analysting Game Genres and Trends
A conversation about the current state of game genres reveals concerns over the saturation of live service titles in the gaming market. The hosts reflect on how recent failures in this area, such as the brief existence of Concord, signal a need for the industry to reevaluate its approach to game development. There’s an acknowledgment that while AAA games will continue to dominate, the rise of indie titles can fill the gaps left by failed live-service models. This discourse suggests a shifting landscape, favoring innovative gameplay and strategic development over mere budget and marketing hype.
Emphasizing Fun in Gaming
A significant theme throughout the podcast is the enjoyment of gaming experiences over the pressures of completionism or achieving high ranks. The hosts share anecdotes reflecting the fun and camaraderie found in gaming sessions, highlighting how personal connections and laughter contribute to the overall gaming experience. They delve into past experiences that brought them joy when gaming with friends or community members. Overall, this segment reaffirms the notion that gaming's primary purpose should be enjoyment and connection, rather than competitive achievements.
Future of Game Recommendations
The hosts express their enthusiasm for exploring various game recommendations, especially those that allow for fun, engaged play with friends. They discuss upcoming titles that have garnered interest and the potential for themed episodes centered on specific genres or franchises, like Half-Life or Baldur's Gate. This openness to across different types of games reflects a commitment to diversifying their content while tapping into nostalgic themes. As they look forward to future gaming explorations, there's a sense of community-driven discovery guiding their choices.
Valve’s new FPS MOBA, Deadlock, turns out to be a good game, but are we really that surprised? Nic plays the top-selling game on Steam right now, Warhammer 40K: Space Marine II.
