The Ringer-Verse

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!

The discussion kicks off with reactions to 'Ironheart,' focusing on Riri Williams' character development and its comparison to Tony Stark. The hosts debate the authenticity of representation and cultural themes in the series. They then transition to the final trailer for 'Fantastic Four,' humorously analyzing character dynamics and superhero relationships. The charisma of Pedro Pascal is highlighted, sparking a fun debate about male attractiveness in cinema. Amidst banter, they navigate audience expectations and the intricacies of superhero narratives.

The hosts engage with listeners about the future of superhero content, particularly Superman and Batman. They discuss the challenges James Gunn faces compared to Kevin Feige in building audience trust. There's lively debate on Marvel's potential hiding of 'Ironheart' and how narrative complexity is evolving, especially regarding representation. They explore Superman's cultural relevance and the importance of authentic storytelling in media. Humor also shines through, with playful discussions about fictional vehicles and personal connections to nostalgic films and TV shows.

Joined by movie enthusiast Jessica Clemons, the hosts dive into the live-action adaptation of 'How to Train Your Dragon,' offering insightful critiques on its visuals and emotional depth. They navigate the nostalgia of animated classics versus their remakes, discussing the industry's trends. The conversation then shifts to 'Predator: Killer of Killers,' celebrating its captivating storytelling and unique historical settings, especially a standout scene in feudal Japan. The trio also engages in playful banter about the enduring charm of the 'Predator' franchise.

The hosts dive into ‘Ballerina,’ exploring its unexpected charm and action-packed sequences within the John Wick universe. They engage in a spirited debate about the film's character depth and its narrative connections to the franchise. The conversation shifts to the final Superman trailer, capturing both excitement and skepticism, particularly regarding Lex Luthor's portrayal. With humor and personal anecdotes, they discuss the film’s nostalgic elements and what it might mean for fans.

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 the hosts as they hilariously draft the most infamous racist movie characters across genres, from action to Tarantino flicks. Expect witty banter and unexpected debates about the impact of these portrayals on audiences. They dive deep into the complexities of humor, intent, and racial representation in films like 'Tropic Thunder' and Quentin Tarantino's work. The conversation balances laughter and critical analysis, making for a thought-provoking exploration of race in cinema.

In this conversation, experienced Elden Ring player Matt James shares his insights on the game and its multiplayer dynamics. The group discusses the cancellation of the Black Panther video game, exploring its impact on superhero titles. They delve into the complexities of adapting 'Elden Ring' into a film, weighing potential pitfalls and narrative challenges. Finally, they highlight video game adaptations that have historically missed the mark, suggesting untapped franchises ripe for exploration.

Dive into a treasure trove of May 2025's nerd culture highlights! Discover the charming deck-building game 'Nine Kings' and laugh along with Paul Rudd in the comedic film 'Friendship' as it pokes fun at Marvel. Excitement abounds with 'Rick and Morty' Season 8, while the new 'Walking Dead' series, 'Dead City,' splits opinions. Nostalgia hits with the video game 'Despelote,' and the discussion rounds off with unique comics and films that reflect broader cultural themes. Tune in for your must-see and must-play recommendations!

This discussion dives into the emotional intricacies of Season 2's finale, exploring fan reactions that range from satisfaction to disappointment. The hosts critically analyze key character dynamics, particularly Ellie and Dina’s evolving relationship. They dissect narrative choices made in the adaptation, focusing on the emotional weight of violence and the impact of omitted scenes. Predictions for Season 3 add intrigue, as they contemplate future directions for Abby's storyline and the challenges of pacing in storytelling.