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The Ringer-Verse

'Kingdom Come: Deliverance II' and a Quarter Century of 'The Sims' | Button Mash

Feb 6, 2025
Join Steve Ahlman, a keen gaming contributor, and Matt James, Ringer's Deputy Art Lead, as they discuss the end of console wars and the rise of Marvel Rivals. They share their spoiler-free insights on the challenging yet immersive travel of 'Kingdom Come: Deliverance II.' Later, Julianna Ress and Khal Davenport dive into 25 years of ‘The Sims,’ reflecting on its revolutionary impact on gaming culture and personal memories. From gameplay evolution to nostalgic stories, this conversation captures the essence of this iconic franchise!
01:25:12

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The shift in Microsoft's console exclusivity strategy suggests the console wars may be evolving into a more inclusive gaming landscape.
  • The strong reception of Marvel Rivals signals a potential shift in the hero shooter genre, challenging the dominance of Overwatch 2.

Deep dives

The Evolution of Console Exclusivity

Microsoft's approach to console exclusivity has shifted significantly, as evidenced by the upcoming release of Xbox franchises on PlayStation platforms. The announcement that games like Forza Horizon 5 will be available on PS5 marks a notable change, suggesting that the traditional console wars may be coming to an end. With Xbox CEO Phil Spencer stating there are no 'red lines' regarding exclusivity, the dynamics appear to be evolving into a more inclusive gaming landscape. This reflects a broader trend in the industry, where companies aim to maximize their exposure and audience reach rather than strictly limit access to their titles.

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