

Unlocked
IGN & Geek Media
These days, practically everything is an Xbox, and Xbox fans deserve to celebrate their passion for Xbox everywhere. Unlocked is the definitive Xbox podcast, hosted by Ryan McCaffrey alongside a panel of expert guests. Each week, they dive deep into breaking Xbox news, exclusive game reveals, and heated debates on the future of Xbox—covering everything from consoles and PC to Game Pass and cloud gaming. Whether you're a longtime Xbox fan or just jumping in, Unlocked is your go-to source for all things Xbox.Unlocked is a part of Geek Media Podcast Network, an IGN Entertainment Brand.Visit Geek.com for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 4, 2024 • 55min
Podcast Unlocked Episode 639 - Is Silksong Real??
Hollow Knight: Silksong has been the hot topic amongst its fans since its announcement back in 2019. This April Fools, a listing was made on the Microsoft store for Silksong with minimal details. We discuss whether or not this means there's hope on the near horizon for the sequel along with Microsoft's new chatbot AI testing, No Man's Sky updates, and the new gamepass games for April.EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/unlockd Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 28, 2024 • 55min
What if the Xbox Handheld Is Real? – Unlocked 638
Based on a recent interview, it seems like Phil Spencer has been thinking a lot about a possible Xbox handheld. We discuss what we'd want from it – noting that we would VERY MUCH want it – and wonder if it could end up being a Switch-like replacement for the Series S in the next console generation. Plus: Elder Scrolls 6 is already playable at Bethesda, but we're hoping the team is doing some serious updating to the Creation Engine. And finally, we talk about Toys for Bob's new game deal with Microsoft after they recently split off from Activision, including what we think the game is. Enjoy the show! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4 snips
Mar 21, 2024 • 54min
Rebuilding BioWare’s Reputation – Unlocked 637
From discussing Xbox Game Pass's impressive lineup to the return of Halo 2 servers and upcoming RPG game innovations, the podcast covers exciting topics. The hiring of a new executive to oversee BioWare is a key focus, with hopes of reviving the renowned studio to its former glory.

Mar 14, 2024 • 54min
Fallout TV Show Teased as Fallout 6 – Unlocked 636
In today’s episode, we're diving into the intriguing world of the Fallout TV series, as hinted by Bethesda's Todd Howard. With a directive to the show's creators to avoid elements planned for Fallout 5, the series is setting up an intriguing narrative canvas, spanning the aftermath of Fallout 4 and touching on the lore of New Vegas, all within the backdrop of post-apocalyptic Los Angeles. As Fallout 5 remains on the distant horizon, post-The Elder Scrolls 6, the anticipation builds for what Bethesda has in store for the franchise's future.Additionally, we cover the Square Enix Publisher Sale, offering significant discounts on major franchises, and provide updates on the latest Forza Motorsport enhancements that promise to enrich the racing experience. We also spotlight the arrival of the System Shock remake on Xbox and PlayStation, following its successful PC launch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

8 snips
Mar 7, 2024 • 57min
What We Thought of Xbox’s Second Showcase in 2024 – Unlocked 635
The podcast discusses Xbox's recent showcase event, highlighting game announcements like Altars and Stalker Legends trilogy. They also explore Toys for Bob's independence, Warner Brothers' focus on live-service games, and the excitement for upcoming Game Pass releases.

Feb 29, 2024 • 55min
What Is the Xbox Game of the Generation So Far? – Unlocked 634
Discussion on whether the console generation has been a disappointment, and the Xbox Game of the Generation. Evolution of Xbox, future of gaming, and exclusivity. Xbox's diversification strategy with classic games. Economic challenges in the gaming industry and future shifts. Ranking Xbox generations based on impact and standout features.

Feb 23, 2024 • 55min
Does Xbox Need a ‘Series X Pro’? – Unlocked 633
We open this week's podcast by discussing what first-party Xbox games might be next to get ported to the PlayStation or Switch as Microsoft officially announces the four games (Pentiment, Sea of Thieves, Grounded, and Hi-Fi Rush) heading to other consoles, and then we get into our main topic: a so-called Xbox Series X Pro. With rumors abound of a PS5 Pro, does Microsoft need to get a mid-gen upgrade (i.e. different than the Brooklin refresh from the FTC trial's roadmap leak) out there soon too? Or is it not worth it. We then finish with a bit of chatter about season 2 of the Paramount+ Halo TV show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4 snips
Feb 16, 2024 • 55min
Xbox's Big Changes Weren't So Big After All...Whew! – Unlocked 632
Xbox's business update reveals big games staying put, while smaller ones moving. Future of Xbox hardware teased. Discussion on game development costs, evolving gameplay, and microtransactions. Speculation on hardware updates and Game Pass availability. Podcast explores gaming content announcements and promotions.

Feb 8, 2024 • 57min
WTF Is Going On With Xbox? – Unlocked 631
Discussion on reports of Xbox games potentially being released on PlayStation consoles, the impact on the Xbox community and brand, and Microsoft's focus on software and services. The chapter also explores miscommunication between Microsoft and the Xbox community, challenges in proactive messaging, the evolution of Xbox's Game Pass, and upcoming promotions and adaptations.

Jan 31, 2024 • 55min
Suicide Squad Is Out. Let’s Talk About It – Unlocked 630
There's unfortunately not a lot of fun to be had on this week's Podcast Unlocked. We open by addressing the layoffs across Microsoft's gaming division that were announced just after last week's Unlocked published, then follow that with another gut-punch layoff story, before Destin discusses his mixed feelings about Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League now that he's played almost the entire campaign. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices