'Kingdom Come: Deliverance II' and a Quarter Century of 'The Sims' | Button Mash
Feb 6, 2025
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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!
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.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is notable for its complex, immersive gameplay that rewards players who navigate its initial difficulties with rich storytelling.
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.
The Future of Xbox Hardware
Despite the apparent softening of exclusivity policies, Xbox remains committed to developing innovative hardware for future generations. Phil Spencer emphasizes the importance of building quality hardware that meets consumer demands, rather than simply relying on exclusive games to drive console sales. This strategy acknowledges the changing market, where the success of games on various platforms is prioritized over stringent exclusivity. As the industry faces increased competition across all entertainment forms, Xbox aims to enhance the consumer experience via superior hardware regardless of where those games are played.
The Champaign of Video Game Competition
As the gaming market expands, the competitive landscape has shifted from traditional console wars to a more fluid environment that encompasses multiple platforms and genres. With major releases now common across various systems, there's a greater emphasis on content accessibility and player choice. This is exemplified by Xbox's willingness to allow its properties on rival platforms, a practice that reflects a broader cultural shift away from exclusivity in entertainment. Additionally, this trend indicates that gamers are now valuing content quality and availability over strict brand loyalty, leading to a healthier ecosystem for players.
Marvel Rivals and the Hero Shooter Landscape
The recent introduction of Marvel Rivals has shaken up the competitive landscape, especially in relation to Overwatch 2. Rivals has garnered significant attention and a larger player base on platforms like Twitch, prompting Blizzard to reconsider its strategy for Overwatch. While Rivals owes much of its success to the existing Marvel franchise, it has been able to create a buzz that Overwatch has struggled to maintain, indicating a potential shift in the hero shooter hierarchy. The landscape's evolution compels established titles like Overwatch to innovate and adapt to retain their player interest, driven by competitive pressure.
Kingdom Come Deliverance 2: A Challenging Yet Rewarding Experience
Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 offers players an intense and vast medieval experience, marked by its complexity and depth. Players can expect a challenging start where they must navigate a punishing world, often feeling overwhelmed by tasks and systems. However, as they persevere, the game reveals rich storytelling and character development that keeps players engaged. The impressive level of immersion, combined with a sprawling narrative and history, ensures that those who push through the initial difficulties will find a rewarding experience that resonates over time.
Ben, Steve Ahlman, and Matt James banter about whether the console wars are over and whether 'Marvel Rivals' will keep the crown that 'Overwatch' once wore. Then (19:50) they give their spoiler-free reviews of the immense, fascinating, and frustrating action RPG 'Kingdom Come: Deliverance II.' After that, Julianna Ress and Khal Davenport join Ben to reminisce about 'The Sims' and reflect on the franchise's legacy on its 25th anniversary (48:30).
Host: Ben Lindbergh
Guests: Steve Ahlman, Matt James, Julianna Ress, and Khal Davenport
