In this lively discussion, Steve Ahlman, a witty game contributor, Matt James, a creative force at The Ringer, and insightful writer Justin Charity delve into the gaming trends of 2023. They highlight both 'naughty' and 'nice' trends, from live-service failures to the shift in console exclusivity. The trio drafts their most anticipated titles for 2024, celebrating diverse genres like expansive RPGs and charming indie games. The conversation brims with humor and debate, making it a must-listen for gaming enthusiasts!
The hosts discuss both 'naughty' and 'nice' trends in gaming for 2024, highlighting significant industry shifts like live-service flops and console exclusivity decline.
In a lively draft segment, the hosts select their favorite games of the year, emphasizing personal preferences across diverse categories from RPGs to indie titles.
The podcast reflects on how video game gift-giving can create lasting memories, enhancing connections with loved ones during the holiday season.
A thoughtful analysis on indie games showcases their originality and storytelling power, marking a growing appreciation for creativity in the gaming industry.
Deep dives
Back to the 2000s
The podcast introduces the transition from discussing 90s songs to diving into the 2000s music scene, highlighting iconic artists such as The Strokes, Rihanna, and Kanye West. This shift signifies a broader exploration of music's evolution and cultural impact from one decade to another. The host expresses a refusal to call the decade the 'aughts,' demonstrating a personal connection to the music and the era. This sets the stage for a nostalgic yet comprehensive look at how these artists helped shape the music landscape of the 2000s.
Holiday Cheer and Gift Giving
Amidst the music discussion, there are reflections on the holiday season and the experience of gift-giving, particularly regarding video games. The host emphasizes the joy of spending time with loved ones and how gifting items like video games can create lasting memories. This context serves to underline the importance of connectivity through shared experiences during the holidays. It wraps back to the theme of nostalgia, akin to reminiscing over favorite childhood games.
Games of the Year Draft
As the episode transitions into discussing the best games of the year, the podcast hosts involve themselves in a spirited draft format. This segment tackles the concept of game choices, competitiveness, and how personal preferences influence the selections. The hosts express differing opinions on what constitutes the 'best' games, adding layers to the conversation about gaming culture. This segment celebrates the diversity of opinions while inviting listeners to reflect on their gaming experiences over the past year.
Personal Experiences with Gaming
The hosts share personal anecdotes about their gaming experiences, including their preferences for single-player versus multiplayer games. They delve into the emotional impact of games played during significant life moments, such as birthdays or holidays. Discussions turn to favorite childhood memories tied to specific games, illustrating how deeply ingrained these experiences are in their identities. These reflections enhance the connection between gaming and personal milestones, making the conversation more relatable for the audience.
Trends in Gaming Culture
The podcast explores current trends influencing gaming culture, including the rise of early access games and the implications of artificial intelligence in game development. There is a thoughtful examination of how these trends affect gameplay experiences and player expectations. The hosts critique the balance between innovation and quality, particularly in online gaming. Such reflections invite listeners to consider the broader implications of these trends in shaping the future of gaming.
The Rise of Indie Games
A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to indie games, particularly how they've carved out a niche within the gaming industry. The hosts highlight unique titles that break traditional gaming molds, offering creativity and originality often overlooked by mainstream releases. They celebrate the innovation found in smaller projects, emphasizing the ability of indie games to convey powerful narratives and artistic statements. This focus on indie gaming underscores a growing appreciation for diverse storytelling and artistic freedom in the gaming landscape.
The Future of Gaming
Finally, the conversation shifts towards predicting the future of gaming and the potential impact of current trends. The hosts explore the ideas of merging technology with gaming experiences, including streaming services and cloud gaming. As they speculate on the trajectory of game design and player engagement, they consider the balance between accessibility and preserving the essence of gameplay. This forward-looking discussion invites listeners to reflect on how their gaming preferences may evolve in conjunction with technological advancements.
Ben, Steve Ahlman, Matt James, and Justin Charity wrap a podcast present and put it under the tree. First, they name “naughty” and “nice” trends in gaming this year, from high-profile, live-service flops to the decline of console exclusivity (08:55). Then, they celebrate the most unforgettable titles of 2024 by drafting their favorite releases across several categories, including sprawling RPGs, riveting action adventures, and indie darlings (39:20).
Host: Ben Lindbergh
Guests: Steve Ahlman, Matt James, and Justin Charity
