Matt James

This lively discussion features Steve Ahlman, known as Steven Universe Allman, who links the cultural impact of games to personal favorites. Matt James, Ringer Deputy Art Director, makes a bold case that recent games surpass classics, while Daniel Chin champions Red Dead Redemption 2 as Rockstar's best. The group dives into the evolution of multiplayer gaming, the legacy of iconic titles like Halo and Bioshock, and celebrates modern titles like Hades. Their playful banter reveals deep insights into gaming's past and future.

Joining the discussion is Matt James, the Ringer's deputy art director and frequent commentator on gaming trends. He dives into the significance of the multi-platform remake of 'Halo,' exploring what it means for Xbox's future strategy. The duo also shares their impressions of 'Ninja Gaiden 4,' discussing its complex combat and narrative weaknesses, while praising its gameplay depth. Lastly, they highlight the appeal of 'The Outer Worlds 2,' emphasizing its choice-driven adventures and character builds that enhance player engagement.

Matt James, the deputy art lead at The Ringer, dives into the remastered 'Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater' and the excitement surrounding the second season of 'Twisted Metal.' The hosts discuss the intriguing balance between nostalgia and modernization in gaming, exploring the challenges of remaking a classic and the legacy of Hideo Kojima's narratives. They also shed light on the future of 'Twisted Metal,' sharing behind-the-scenes insights from showrunner Michael Jonathan Smith on character arcs and production dynamics, along with a humorous pitch story.

In this lively discussion, Matt James, Ringer's deputy art lead known for his gaming insights, joins Steve Ahlman, a senior audio producer with a passion for indie trends, and Joshua Rivera, a thoughtful critic offering cultural context on games. They dive into the impressive volume and quality of 2025's releases, share their 'naughty and nice' industry observations, and passionately draft their favorite games across categories. Highlights include Joshua's critique of Xbox strategy, Matt's hopes for Steam Frame, and a nostalgic pick for Final Fantasy Tactics.

Join Matt James, Ringer Deputy Art Lead and Game Awards attendee, as he shares his exhilarating experiences from the event. He and Ben Lindbergh dive into standout moments, including Claire Obscur's impressive wins and the emotional highs and lows of the awards. They countdown their top 10 highlights, featuring exciting game announcements like Gang of Dragons and Resident Evil Requiem. Expect lively debates about cinematic reveals versus gameplay and some surprising snubs that left them buzzing!

Join Matt James, Deputy Art Director at The Ringer, and Steve Ahlman, a seasoned commentator on games, as they delve into the latest in gaming culture. They cover the buzz around upcoming adaptations like the 'Super Mario Galaxy Movie' and discuss their spoiler-free thoughts on the much-anticipated 'Borderlands 4.' The pair also engage in a spirited debate on the difficulty of 'Hollow Knight: Silksong,' balancing praise for its design with critiques on its challenging gameplay. Get ready for insights and nostalgia!

Matt James, The Ringer's Deputy Art Director, shares his insights after 60 hours with 'Hollow Knight: Silksong.' He discusses the game's nostalgic roots and the immense hype surrounding its release. They explore the balance of challenge and enjoyment, from tough boss fights to the innovative mechanics like fast travel and Hornet's abilities. The conversation also touches on the game's striking art style and strategic pricing that fosters goodwill, showcasing how it builds a vibrant community of players.

In this engaging discussion, Justin Charity, a Senior Staff Writer and Kojima enthusiast, and Matt James, Ringer’s Deputy Art Lead, delve into 'Death Stranding 2's' unique narrative and innovative gameplay mechanics, including its whimsical themes. They also share insights on the challenges of adapting fighting games like 'Street Fighter' into films. The duo constructs their personal top-10 lists of the year's best games, reflecting on the rise of indie titles and the future of gaming, creating excitement for what 2025 has in store!

Matt James, Ringer's deputy art lead and co-host of Button Mash, shares his insights on the groundbreaking launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. He discusses his experiences with the new console and the much-anticipated 'Mario Kart World,' blending nostalgia with innovative gameplay elements. The duo also dives into key highlights from the summer gaming showcases, tackling trends in the industry and the excitement around upcoming titles. With a mix of hope and skepticism, they navigate the evolving landscape of gaming.

Join Tom Bissell, a renowned video game writer known for his work on 'Andor' and 'Uncharted', alongside Steve Ahlman and Matt James, as they dive into dynamic discussions about 'Doom: The Dark Ages.' They explore the intricate evolution and gameplay mechanics of the Doom franchise, debating its balance between tradition and innovation. Bissell shares insights from the 'Andor' writers' room, shedding light on crafting cohesive narratives and the unique challenges of storytelling across media. Their banter is filled with passion, humor, and deep fandom!