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February Games Blowout, Plus State of Play Reactions | Button Mash
13 februari 2026 · 1 uur 30 min
Ben Lindbergh, Matt James, and Steve Ahlman speedrun the month's major gaming news and releases. In Patch Notes, they break down HBO's 'Baldur's Gate' adaptation, layoffs for developers of struggling free-to-play games 'Highguard' and '2XKO,' Sony's latest bid for live-service success with 'Horizon Hunters Gathering,' and the highlights of February's PS5 State of Play. Then, in the Minigames section, they share spoiler-free impressions of six recently released games: 'Nioh 3,' Dragon Quest VII Reimagined,' 'Romeo is a Dead Man,' 'Mewgenics,' 'Mario Tennis Fever,' and 'Reanimal,' featuring thoughts on the state of Switch 2 and the debut of a new segment, Only in Video Games.Email us at ringerversegaming@gmail.com!Intro (0:00)Patch Notes (2:00)'Baldur’s Gate' Adaptation (2:22)Layoffs (14:25)'Horizon Hunters Gathering' (26:32)State of Play (34:10)Minigames (44:41)'Nioh 3' (45:38)'Dragon Quest 7' (49:34)'Romeo Is a Dead Man' (53:31)'Mewgenics' (59:31)'Mario Tennis Fever' (1:05:21)'Reanimal' (1:18:44)Outro (1:26:16)Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Matt James and Steve AhlmanProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 4 Instant Reactions | The Midnight Boys
7 februari 2026 · 1 uur 29 min
The Boys are back, and they start off the episode by jumping back into the great lightsaber debate. Then they dive into ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 4, starting with a look at Baelor as a character. Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(18:52) Spoilers ahead
(20:44) ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 4 reactions
(1:21:32) Outro
(1:24:29) Post Credits
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Devon Baroldi
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘Fallout’ Season 2 Finale Reactions (and Interviews!) | Button Mash
5 februari 2026 · 1 uur 58 min
Welcome to the Wasteland—and farewell, for now! Ben Lindbergh and Van Lathan reunite, hug, and hold hands as they discuss the eighth and last episode of 'Fallout' Season 2, "The Strip." First, they share their thoughts on what a season finale should accomplish and whether they found "The Strip" satisfying. Then they catch up with the core characters one more time, break down the hardest-hitting emotional moments, and discuss several loose ends before speculating on the direction of the series in Season 3. After that, Ben chats with 'Fallout' cocreator and co-showrunner Geneva Robertson-Dworet about the finale and the future of the show. Finally, Ben brings on the lead creative designer of 'Fallout: New Vegas,' Obsidian Entertainment creative director John Gonzalez, to talk about how the show handled its source material, the potential and peril of game adaptations, and the finer points of storytelling in open-world games. Lees meer
Email us at ringerversegaming@gmail.com!
Intro (0:00)Review of the finale (2:14)The Ghoul and House (15:20)Coop and Barb (23:27)Maximus (26:58)Lucy and Hank (35:20)The Vaulties (56:13)Post-credits scene (1:02:37)Interview with Geneva Robertson-Dworet (1:11:19)Interview with John Gonzalez (1:21:20)Outro (1:54:11)
Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Van Lathan, Geneva Robertson-Dworet, and John GonzalezProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 3 Instant Reactions | The Midnight Boys
4 februari 2026 · 1 uur 22 min
The Boys are back, and they’re diving into ‘Game of Thrones’ lore in this episode! Lees meer
They touch on Egg’s family lineage while also contemplating what each of them would’ve done if they were in Dunk’s shoes.
(0:00) Intro
(6:16) Spoilers ahead
(8:10) ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 3 reactions
(1:09:12) Outro
(1:13:11) Post Credits
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Devon Baroldi
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Ringer-Verse Recommends: January 2026 (Featuring ‘28 Years Later: The Bone Temple’)
31 januari 2026 · 1 uur 9 min
New year, new recommendations! First, Ben and Daniel Chin suppress their rage and bloodlust long enough to discuss the sequel to '28 Years Later,' focusing on the franchise's unpredictable appeal, what makes the new movie so special, and (in a clearly indicated closing spoiler section) what they'd be excited to see in the final film of the trilogy. After that, other Ringer-Verse hosts, friends, and listeners salute unsung releases to cap off another monthly roundup of fandom favorites from TV, anime, movies, video games, books, comics, and beyond that were released recently but not yet covered in-depth on a full-length episode.Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Daniel Chin, Steve Ahlman, Arjuna Ramgopowell, Devon Renaldo, and Matt JamesSenior Producer: Steve Ahlman
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January Gems and Horror Adaptations (With Markiplier!) | Button Mash
30 januari 2026 · 1 uur 40 min
Who says the year is starting slowly? In Patch Notes, Ben and Matt break down the release of hot-button free-to-play shooter 'Highguard,' the latest signs of decline at Ubisoft, and highlights from Microsoft's Xbox Developer Direct. Then they go on a Side Quest to discuss Matt's panic purchase of a gaming PC before reaching their Main Quest: spoiler-free recommendations for four indie gems from January (their Game of the Young Year, 'Cairn,' plus 'Mio: Memories in Orbit,' 'TR-49,' and 'Perfect Tides: Station to Station'). After that, they play Mash or Pass with new big-screen adaptation 'Return to Silent Hill.' Finally, Ben brings on gaming YouTube legend Markiplier to discuss his horror adaptation: the self-financed film ‘Iron Lung.’ Lees meer
Email us at ringerversegaming@gmail.com!
Patch Notes: ‘Highguard' launch, Ubisoft restructuring and Xbox (4:06) Side Quest: Matt James is a PC gamer! (22:08) Main Quest: January Gems (26:32) 'Cairn' (28:53) 'Mio: Memories in Orbit' (40:45) 'TR-49' (43:53) Perfect Tides: ’Station to Station' (45:41)Mash or Pass: 'Return to Silent Hill' (49:03) The Markiplier Interview (01:02:31)
Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Matt James and MarkiplierProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘Fallout’ Season 2, Episode 7 Reactions | Button Mash
29 januari 2026 · 1 uur 24 min
You always end up back where you started … and this week Van Lathan ends up back on Button Mash as he and Ben Lindbergh break down the penultimate episode of ‘Fallout’ Season 2, “The Handoff.” After sharing their overall review, they consider Steph’s backstory, catch up with the core characters, and assess how several storylines could come together in the finale. Along the way, they contemplate Canadian heritage, the Ghoul’s accent, and whom they would want with them on a Wasteland journey. Lees meer
Intro (0:00)Reactions to “The Handoff” (6:00)The Ghoul’s Accent (14:47)Steph’s Backstory (18:06)Betty and Other Wild Cards (26:48)Lucy and Hank (37:46)Coop, Maximus and Thaddeus (52:43)Outro (1:20:02)
Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Van LathanProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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'Wonder Man’ Season 1 Reactions & Trailers Nerd News | The Midnight Boys
28 januari 2026 · 1 uur 51 min
The Boys are back, and they’re excited to talk about Marvel’s newest installment in the MCU, ‘Wonder Man.’ Then they dive into several of the newest nerd-verse trailers including ‘Odyssey’, ‘Super Mario’, ’Supergirl’, and ‘Masters of the Universe.’ Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(1:54) Trailers Nerd News
(40:49) Spoilers Ahead
(43:04) Instant reactions to ‘Wonder Man’ Season 1
(1:41:24) Midnight Meter
(1:45:57) Outro
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Devon Baroldi
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 2 Reactions | The Midnight Boys
26 januari 2026 · 1 uur 22 min
The Boys are back, and they’re excited to talk about all things Dunk and Egg! They dive into Episode 2 of 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,' explore character dynamics so far in the show, and maybe even hit a few tangents along the way. Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(5:46) Spoilers Ahead
(7:45) ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 2 Reactions
(1:09:13) Outro
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Fallout’ Season 2, Episode 6 Reactions | Button Mash
22 januari 2026 · 1 uur 30 min
Sharpened pencils down! Ben Lindbergh and Daniel Chin discuss the momentous, if somewhat scattered, sixth episode of the second season of 'Fallout,' "The Other Player." After sharing their overall review, they recap and dissect each of the (many!) main plot threads and character developments, break down the story revelations, and greet a new guest star with a crucial connection to ‘Fallout’ lore. They also scrutinize a mini–musical number, speculate about what could be coming in the final two episodes, and react to the announcement of a 'Fallout' reality series. Lees meer
Intro (0:00)‘Fallout’ Episode 6 review (1:25)Barb and Coop (3:48)The Ghoul (26:42)Lucy and Hank (43:42)Maximus and Thaddeus (1:00:30)The Vault dwellers (1:08:38)'Fallout Shelter' reaction (1:20:40)Outro (1:26:05)
Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Daniel ChinProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Premiere Reactions | The Midnight Boys
19 januari 2026 · 1 uur 32 min
The Boys are back, and they’re here to dive back into the ‘Game of Thrones’ universe. They discuss the highly anticipated first episode of the new series ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms.’ Then they jump into a little Nerd News from George R. R. Martin himself. Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(5:54) Spoilers Ahead
(7:28) ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Episode 1 Reactions
(1:12:34) Nerd News
(1:27:47) Outro
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Chris Thomas, Jade Whaley, and Aleya Zenieris
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘Fallout’ Season 2, Episode 5 Reactions | Button Mash
15 januari 2026 · 1 uur 29 min
We need to talk! Ben Lindbergh and Daniel Chin discuss the strong fifth episode of the second season of 'Fallout,' "The Wrangler." After sharing their overall review, they recap and dissect each of the main plot threads and character developments, break down the story revelations, and assess the connections to ‘Fallout’ lore. They also examine the mystery of who ended the world and probe that puzzle’s implications for the rest of the series. Lees meer
Intro (0:00)Overall review of the episode (1:46)Hank catch-up (5:32)What’s new with Norm (13:02)Lucy and the Ghoul (27:05)Coop and House (53:20)Outro (1:25:23)
Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Daniel ChinProducer: Isaiah BlakelyAdditional Production Supervision: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Top ‘Game of Thrones' Crash-Outs | The Midnight Boys
15 januari 2026 · 1 uur 32 min
The Boys are back, and they’re here to give you the best primer for 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms': the best ‘Game of Thrones’ crash-outs. But before they get to that, they give you a bit of Nerd News, with Sebastian Stan joining ‘The Batman Part II.’ Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(16:58) Nerd News
(37:23) ‘Game of Thrones’ crash-outs
(1:28:21) Outro
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘Fallout’ Season 2, Episode 4 Reactions | Button Mash
8 januari 2026 · 1 uur 33 min
Viva New Vegas! Ben Lindbergh and Daniel Chin climb into their T-45 armor to analyze the fourth episode of the second season of 'Fallout,' "The Demon in the Snow." After sharing their overall takes on the episode, they check in on the Vault dwellers, Maximus and the Brotherhood, and Coop/the Ghoul and Lucy and examine how the show's core characters and factions are reacting to the stress of wasteland life. They also reflect on the Brotherhood's lax security, the deathclaw design, and 'Fallout' lore revelations before discussing what they'd like to see in the second half of the season. Finally, Ben talks to Joe Sanabria, the lead artist for 'Fallout: New Vegas,' about bringing the game's look to life, how the Strip translated to TV, and how 'New Vegas' would be different if it were made (or remade) today.Intro (0:00)‘Fallout’ Season 2, Episode 4 reactions (2:55)Vault dwellers recap (5:27)Maximus and the Brotherhood (19:45)Coop/the Ghoul and Lucy (33:58)Interview with Joe Sanabria (1:01:11)Outro (1:29:42)Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Daniel Chin and Joe SanabriaProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Avengers Doomsday Teasers + Over/Unders of 2026 | The Midnight Boys
8 januari 2026 · 1 uur 51 min
It’s 2026 and the Midnight Boys are back! The guys react to the Avengers: Doomsday teasers before getting into their predictions for the box office, critical success and more on all things fandom in 2026. Intro (0:00) Lees meer
Nerd News - Avengers: Doomsday Teasers (03:15)
Over/Unders of 2026 (13:41)
Outro (01:47:11)Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve AhlmanProducers: Jon Jones and Jade WhaleyAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Our Most Anticipated Video Games of 2026 | Button Mash
6 januari 2026 · 1 uur 45 min
Ben, Matt James, and Bloomberg reporter Jason Schreier start a new save file for 2026! First they sum up the subjects they think will define the year, from 'Grand Theft Auto VI' to the Steam Machine to rising prices to anti-AI sentiments. Then they select their most anticipated games of 2026 in several categories and wrap up with big-picture predictions. Lees meer
Intro (0:00)Big questions about the year (3:45)Most anticipated games (35:34)2026 predictions (1:29:12)Outro (1:41:42)
Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Matt James and Jason SchreierProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘Fallout’ Season 2, Episode 3 Reactions | Button Mash
1 januari 2026 · 1 uur 12 min
Hot dawg! Ben and Van Lathan suit up to discuss the lore-stuffed third episode of the second season of 'Fallout,' "The Profligate." After sharing their overall review, they check in on Lucy, Coop/The Ghoul, and Maximus, and examine how the episode's themes and plot lines tie together. They also reflect on the merits of talking to dogs, compare and contrast crucifixion methods, break down bathroom conversation etiquette, bemoan anti-ghoul discrimination, and more. Lees meer
Intro (0:00)‘Fallout’ Episode 3 recap (6:32)Outro (1:08:27)
Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Van LathanProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Best Movies and TV of 2025: Midnight Mulligans | The Midnight Boys
31 december 2025 · 1 uur 52 min
The Boys are back for their end-of-the-year review of all things nerd-verse and their Midnight Mulligans rankings! Lees meer
(10:13) 'Star Wars: Skeleton Crew'
(13:56) 'Wicked' Part 1
(18:04) 'Captain America: Brave New World'
(34:17) 'Daredevil: Born Again'
(34:58) 'Sinners'
(38:34) 'Thunderbolts*'
(40:22) 'Andor' Season 2
(40:53) 'The Last of Us' Season 2
(55:43) 'Mission: Impossible—The Final Reckoning'
(58:03) 'Ballerina'
(59:58) 'Ironheart'
(1:03:19) 'Jurassic World Rebirth'
(1:05:37) 'F1'
(1:08:15) 'Superman'
(1:13:21) 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps'
(1:17:37) 'Alien: Earth'
(1:18:59) 'Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle'
(1:25:36) 'One Battle After Another'
(1:41:36) 'Peacemaker' Season 2
(1:41:43) 'Gen V' Season 2
(1:44:26) 'Predator: Badlands'
(1:44:55) 'The Running Man'
(1:45:04) 'Wicked: For Good'
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Chris Thomas, Jade Whaley, Aleya Zenieris, and Sarah Reddy
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Ringer-Verse Recommends: December 2025 (Featuring ‘Pluribus’)
31 december 2025 · 1 uur 11 min
With various hosts scattered or taking time off for the holidays, Ben Lindbergh and Van Lathan toss out the typical Recommends format for this month and devote the whole episode to one show that hasn't been covered on The Ringer-Verse or ‘House of R’: ‘Pluribus.’ Ben and Van explore what made Vince Gilligan's Apple TV series a challenging yet fulfilling watch, discuss what sets the series apart from other sci-fi fare, and look ahead to a (distant) second season. Happy New Year! Lees meer
Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Van LathanSenior Producer: Steve Ahlman
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‘Fallout’ Season 2, Episode 2 Reactions | Button Mash
24 december 2025 · 1 uur 13 min
Ben and Daniel Chin patrol the Mojave and discuss the literally mind-blowing second episode of the second season of 'Fallout,' "The Golden Rule." After sharing their overall review, they assess each of the episode’s four main settings and story lines, point out the parallels between characters, and wrestle with this season’s accelerated world-building. They also consider whether becoming a ghoul is good, the Golden Rule vs. the Ghoul-den Rule, the likelihood of surviving a nuclear explosion by hiding in a fridge, aliens in 'Fallout' lore, and more. Lees meer
Intro (0:30)
Overall review of the episode (03:32)
Hank catch-up (06:20)
What’s new with Norm (13:26)
Lucy and the ghoul (18:30)
Maximus and the Brotherhood (38:01)
Fridge science, 'Fallout' lore, and more (50:00)
Host: Ben Lindbergh
Guest: Daniel Chin
Producer: Brian H. Waters
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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2025 Games of the Year Draft | Button Mash
23 december 2025 · 2 uur 14 min
Ben, Matt, Steve, and Joshua Rivera recap an eventful year in video games by summing up the overall quantity and quality of games released in 2025, identifying both naughty and nice trends in the industry, and drafting their favorite titles across several categories. Lees meer
(00:00) Intro(3:35) Overall Quality of 2025 Games(8:35) Naughty and Nice Industry Trends(43:32) Games of the Year Draft
Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Matt James, Steve Ahlman, and Joshua RiveraProducer: Isaiah BlakelyAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Reactions | The Midnight Boys
19 december 2025 · 1 uur 31 min
The Boys are back to give you all of their thoughts on the newest installment of James Cameron’s ‘Avatar’ universe: ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash.’ Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(22:15) Spoilers Ahead
(23:54) ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Reactions
(1:25:06) Midnight Meter
(1:27:32) Outro
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Chris Thomas, Devon Baroldi, Aleya Zenieris, and Sarah Reddy
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘Fallout’ Season 2 Premiere Reactions (Plus Justin Theroux!) | Button Mash
17 december 2025 · 1 uur 27 min
Ben Lindbergh and Van Lathan return to the Wasteland for the first weekly Button Mash breakdown of ‘Fallout’ Season 2. First, they recap the premiere and discuss how it sets up the season. Then, Ben talks to Justin Theroux about joining the show in the role of Robert House. Finally, Ben brings on Polygon senior editor Chris Hayner for a primer on the game that inspired much of this season, ‘Fallout: New Vegas.’ Lees meer
Intro (0:00)'Fallout' Season 2 premiere recap (11:56)Interview with Justin Theroux (52:13)Inside 'Fallout: New Vegas'—the game behind the season (1:00:33)
Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Van Lathan, Justin Theroux, and Chris HaynerProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Our Top 10 Highlights From the Game Awards | Button Mash
12 december 2025 · 1 uur 5 min
Ben Lindbergh and Matt James share their instant reactions to gaming's annual awards show/trailer fest! First they discuss the dominance of ‘Clair Obscur: Expedition 33,’ Matt’s experience attending the show in person, and the award winners that made them happiest and saltiest. Then they count down their respective top 10 lists of exciting announcements about upcoming games. Lees meer
Intro (0:00)Reactions to the Game Awards (2:20)Top 10 highlights (18:36)Outro (1:01:26)
Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Matt JamesProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Christmas Movies Draft | The Midnight Boys
10 december 2025 · 1 uur 43 min
The Boys are back and here to bring you their very merry Christmas movies draft! Five categories of holly jolly fun, from Comedy to Wild Card! Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(7:44) Christmas Movies Draft
(1:39:06) Outro
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris, Devon Baroldi, and Jacob Cornett
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘Metroid Prime 4,’ ‘Marvel Cosmic Invasion,’ and ‘Five Nights at Freddy's 2’ Reactions | Button Mash
6 december 2025 · 2 uur
After stepping inside Samus’s visor for the first time in years, Ben and Polygon's Giovanni Colantonio compare notes on the much-anticipated ‘Metroid Prime 4: Beyond,’ a great game grafted onto parts of other, less-good games. In their spoiler-lite chat, they puzzle over the game’s discordant elements, praise its strengths, and analyze how it fits into the franchise’s lineage before assessing the Switch 2's launch-window lineup now that Nintendo has released its last title of 2025. Then Jessica Clemons joins Ben to discuss their impressions of a new beat-'em-up brawler, ‘Marvel Cosmic Invasion,’ and a new video game movie that’s been beaten up by critics, ‘Five Nights at Freddy's 2.’ Lees meer
Intro (0:00)‘Metroid Prime 4’ Overview (3:00)'Marvel Cosmic Invasion' Review (1:06:34)Reactions to ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s 2’ (1:39:49)Outro (1:56:47)
Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Giovanni Colantonio and Jess ClemonsProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Wakandans at Thanksgiving? It’s Time for a Midnight Mailbag! | The Midnight Boys
3 december 2025 · 1 uur 43 min
The Boys are back and they’re asking the Midnight Riders for their most burning questions about the nerd-verse! From Yoda to Jomi-cookie-gate, they’re here to give you all the answers. Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(9:04) Midnight Mailbag
(1:39:09) Outro
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Devon Baroldi
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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'Zootopia 2' and Disney Sequels | Mint Edition
28 november 2025 · 56 min
Spoilers ahead! Jomi, Steve, and Jess dive into the long-awaited 'Zootopia 2,' sharing their full review and exploring how the sequel expands the world of the original. They discuss the franchise’s cultural impact and what Disney got right (and wrong) this time around and look ahead to a potential 'Zootopia 3,' discussing where Judy, Nick, and the rest of the city could go next. Finally, they zoom out for a broader conversation on Disney sequels, the hurdles they’ve faced, why some manage to shine, and why others fall short. Lees meer
Intro (0:00)'Zootopia 2' review (4:43)Disney sequels: hits, misses, and challenges (27:57)Outro (52:44)
Hosts: Jomi Adeniran and Steve AhlmanGuest: Jessica ClemonsProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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White Girl Movies Draft | The Midnight Boys
26 november 2025 · 1 uur 31 min
The Boys are back, and they’re drafting white girl movies! From Meg Ryan to Lindsay Lohan, they draft in five categories: Fantasy/Action, Romantic Comedy, Musical, Drama, and Wild Card. Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(9:29) White Girl Movies Draft
(1:27:05) Outro
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris, Devon Baroldi, and Devon Renaldo
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Ringer-Verse Recommends: November 2025 (Featuring 'It: Welcome to Derry')
25 november 2025 · 1 uur 8 min
We all pod down here. You'll pod, too. Recommends returns for a Thanksgiving feast! First, Ben brings on Zach Dionne to talk about 'It: Welcome to Derry,' Hollywood's obsession with Stephen King (including several new adaptations in 2025), the dos and don'ts of adapting King, the historical highs and lows, and the future of King's work on-screen. After that, other Ringer-Verse hosts and friends salute unsung releases to complete another expanded installment of the monthly roundup of fandom favorites from TV, anime, movies, video games, books, comics, and beyond that were released recently but not yet covered in-depth on a full-length episode. Lees meer
(00:00) Intro
(02:38) 'It: Welcome to Derry' with Zach Dionne
(19:17) Bigger Stephen King discussion
(49:22) Van's recommendation
(50:20) Steve's recommendation
(51:30) Daniel's recommendation
(53:58) Chuck's recommendation
(54:30) Matt's recommendation
(59:48) Jomi's recommendation
(61:16) Listener recommendation
Host: Ben Lindbergh
Guests: Zach Dionne, Jomi Adeniran, Steve Ahlman, Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Matt James, and Daniel Chin
Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman
Social: Jomi Adeniran
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Speedrunning the Surprise Steam Sensations of 2025 | Button Mash
24 november 2025 · 1 uur 21 min
Ben brings on Simon Carless of GameDiscoverCo and Morgan Park of PC Gamer to explain the success of some of the most popular games released this year that haven’t previously been discussed on the podcast: surprise Steam sensations ‘R.E.P.O.,’ ‘Schedule I,’ ‘Peak,’ ‘Megabonk,’ ‘Escape From Duckov,’ and ‘RV There Yet?’ They break down how unknown PC games go viral, how long their time in the spotlight usually lasts, and what these huge hits have to teach us about the gaming landscape in 2025. Lees meer
Intro (0:00)Steam sensations speedrun (11:52)Outro (1:17:15)
Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Simon Carless and Morgan ParkProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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'Wicked: For Good' Reactions | The Midnight Boys
22 november 2025 · 1 uur 26 min
The Boys are back for good! They unpack all things ‘Wicked: For Good,’ including the highly anticipated musical numbers, the interweaving of the original ‘Wizard of Oz’ story, and the depiction of animals in the movie. Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(9:27) Spoilers ahead
(11:11) ‘Wicked: For Good’ reactions
(1:02:35) Midnight Meter
(1:21:46) Outro
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Devon Baroldi
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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The Online Shooters Shoot-Out: ‘Battlefield’ vs. ‘Call of Duty’ vs. ‘ARC Raiders’ | Button Mash
18 november 2025 · 1 uur 24 min
Ben is joined by Kotaku’s Claire Jackson and Zack Zwiezen as they react to the just-announced nominations for the Game Awards (focusing on the Game of the Year candidates, the record number of nominations for ‘Clair Obscur,’ and the debate about the definition of “indie”) and then break down the industry implications, player considerations, and AI ramifications of the competition brewing among a trio of online-multiplayer powerhouse shooters: ‘Battlefield 6,’ ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 7,’ and ‘ARC Raiders.’ Lees meer
Intro (0:00)
The Game Awards nominations (3:23)
The first-person shooter showdown (22:10)
Host: Ben Lindbergh
Guests: Claire Jackson and Zack Zwiezen
Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Brainiac in ‘Superman 2’? Plus ‘Running Man’ Reactions! | The Midnight Boys
15 november 2025 · 1 uur 32 min
The Boys are back, and they’re ready to talk all things ‘The Running Man’! Then they get into the nerd news of the week with ‘Superman 2’ and even do a mini draft of the best rappers-turned-actors. Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(7:07) Spoilers ahead
(9:36) Instant reactions to ‘The Running Man’
(55:05) Midnight Meter
(57:33) Nerd News
(1:11:30) Outro
(1:14:58) Post Credits
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Devon Baroldi
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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'Dispatch' Deep Dive, and the PS5/Xbox Series Turn Five | Button Mash
14 november 2025 · 2 uur 36 min
Ben Lindbergh, Jomi Adeniran, and Daniel Chin discuss news surrounding a few coming attractions—another 'Grand Theft Auto VI' delay, trailers for 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' and 'Fallout' Season 2, and Valve's announcement of a new Steam Machine—before breaking down the highs and lows of hit episodic superhero adventure game 'Dispatch' (including one spoiler-ish interlude about Jomi's forlorn electronic love life). Then Ben talks to 'Dispatch' creative director Nick Herman and narrative director Pierre Shorette about how the game got made, all the ways it could have turned out differently, and fan horniness. Finally, Ben brings on Game File writer/reporter Stephen Totilo to discuss the fifth birthday of the current console generation, assess why it's widely perceived as disappointing despite a plethora of great games, and forecast the future of gaming. Lees meer
Intro (0:00)Video game news (3:16)'Dispatch' reactions (26:34)Jomi's spoiler interlude (37:58 - 42:20)Interview with Nick Herman and Pierre Shorette (55:09)Five Years of PS5 and Xbox With Stephen Totilo (1:39:25)Outro (2:32:00)
Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Jomi Adeniran, Daniel Chin, Nick Herman, and Pierre ShoretteProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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'Predator: Badlands' Reaction | The Midnight Boys
7 november 2025 · 1 uur 9 min
The Boys are back, and they’re ready to talk all things ‘Predator’! First, they react to the newest addition to the 'Predator' universe, ‘Predator: Badlands.’ Then they rank the top five ‘Predator’ movies. Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(3:51) Spoilers ahead
(5:30) Instant reactions to ‘Predator: Badlands’
(56:22) Midnight Meter
(59:25) Top five 'Predator' movies
(1:04:24) Outro
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Chris Thomas, Jade Whaley, and Aleya Zenieris
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Ringer-Verse Recommends: October 2025 (Featuring 'The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon')
1 november 2025 · 1 uur 9 min
No tricks, all treats! Recommends returns for a dose of fall fun. First, Ben brings on CBR writer Katie Doll to talk about the rise, fall, and future of 'The Walking Dead' in honor of the 15th anniversary of the franchise, with an emphasis on 'Daryl Dixon' Season 3. After that, other Ringer-Verse and House of R hosts and friends salute unsung releases to complete another expanded installment of the monthly roundup of fandom favorites from TV, anime, movies, video games, books, comics, and beyond that were released recently but not yet covered in-depth on a full-length episode. Lees meer
‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’ (03:08)
‘Star Wars: Visions’ Season 3 (45:15)
‘Once Upon a Katamari’ (46:10)
‘Haunted Hotel’ (47:02)
‘Tron: Ares’ soundtrack (48:09)
‘Ball x Pit’ (49:05)
‘LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy: Pieces of the Past’ (50:45)
‘Dispatch’ (57:27)
‘Listener Recommendations’ (58:47)
Host: Ben Lindbergh
Guests: Katie Doll, Jomi Adeniran, Steve Ahlman, Van Lathan, Mallory Rubin, Matt James, Devon Renaldo, Arjuna Ramgopowell
Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman
Social: Jomi Adeniran
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'Halo' Hits PlayStation, 'Ninja Gaiden 4,' and 'The Outer Worlds 2' | Button Mash
31 oktober 2025 · 1 uur 13 min
This is an Xbox ... episode of Button Mash! First, Ben Lindbergh and Matt "The Matt-ster Chief" James breaks down what the upcoming multi-platform remake of the original 'Halo' portends for the future of Xbox. Then, they stick with the theme by sharing their spoiler-free reactions to two new Xbox-published multiplatform games, 'Ninja Gaiden 4' and 'The Outer Worlds 2.'Intro (0:00)The Future of Xbox (1:46)'Ninja Gaiden 4' and 'The Outer Worlds 2' Reactions (25:18)Outro (1:09:13)Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Matt JamesProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘The Simpsons’ and the Best Halloween Episodes | Mint Edition
30 oktober 2025 · 1 uur 11 min
Steve and Jomi are joined by ‘Simpsons’ expert and Ringer senior staff writer Alan Siegel to celebrate all things Halloween. They dive into Alan’s book, 'Stupid TV, Be More Funny,' explore the legacy of the “Treehouse of Horror” specials, and wrap up by drafting their favorite Halloween TV episodes. Lees meer
Intro (0:00)“Treehouse of Horror” deep dive (2:28)Halloween TV episodes draft (17:17)Outro (1:06:30)
Hosts: Jomi Adeniran and Steve AhlmanGuest: Alan SiegelProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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What If the Original 'Star Wars' Trilogy Had an All-Black Cast? | The Midnight Boys
30 oktober 2025 · 1 uur 33 min
The Boys are back with another Black Recast, but this time for the ’Star Wars’ original trilogy of films. They then dive into ‘Star Wars: Visions’ Season 3 and the canceled movie ‘The Hunt for Ben Solo’. Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(8:14) ‘Star Wars’ recast
(1:11:06) ‘Star Wars: Visions’ Season 3 and ‘The Hunt for Ben Solo’
(1:26:30) Outro
(1:28:02) Post-credits
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Devon Baroldi
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘Gen V’ Season 2 Finale Reactions | The Midnight Boys
22 oktober 2025 · 1 uur 20 min
The Midnight Boys sit down to break down the season finale of 'Gen V' and talk about their thoughts on the season overall. They talk about the broader implications for the universe of 'The Boys' as it heads into its final season and what they might want to see in the future of this edgy superhero franchise. They also give the season their Midnight Meter rating! Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(11:54) Reactions to ‘Gen V’ Season 2 Finale
(1:09:38) Midnight Meter
(1:15:09) Outro
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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The October Gaming Gauntlet and a ‘Majora’s Mask’ 25th Anniversary Replay | Button Mash
17 oktober 2025 · 1 uur 34 min
Ben and Matt James banter about the big launch by ‘Battlefield 6’ and share their spoiler-free impressions of three noteworthy recent releases in an overloaded gaming month: ‘Absolum,’ ‘Pokémon Legends: Z-A,’ and ‘Keeper.’ Then Ben and Arjuna Ramgopowell discuss how and why they revisited, and finally completed, an N64 cult classic that has haunted them for a quarter of a century: ‘The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask.’ Lees meer
Intro (0:00)New releases: 'Absolum,' ‘Pokémon Legends: Z-A,’ and 'Keeper' reviews (2:40)‘The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask' revisited (44:20)Outro (1:30:06)
Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Matt James and Arjuna RamgopowellProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Greatest Crash-Outs in MCU History, Plus NYCC News | The Midnight Boys
16 oktober 2025 · 1 uur 28 min
The Boys are back, and they are crashing out. They start with reactions to some New York Comic Con news and then discuss the greatest crash-outs in MCU history, and—spoiler—Tony Stark is mentioned a lot. Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(11:01) New York Comic Con Nerd News
(28:01) Greatest crash-outs in MCU history
(1:18:50) Outro
(1:19:56) Post-credits
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘Tron: Ares’ and the IP Failures to Launch | Mint Edition
15 oktober 2025 · 1 uur 9 min
Steve and Jomi jump back into the Grid to discuss ‘Tron: Ares.’ They share their thoughts on Disney’s latest attempt to reboot the neon-drenched franchise (spoilers included), its legacy, and whether the 'Tron' universe ever got the shot it truly deserved. Later on, they dive deep into Hollywood’s long history of “IP failures to launch,” revisiting the blockbuster hopefuls that never quite became franchises—from the 'Divergent' series to 'The Mummy' and everything in between. Lees meer
Intro (0:00)‘Tron: Ares’ review (5:33)The era of IP failures to launch (37:54)Outro (1:5:46)
Hosts: Jomi Adeniran and Steve AhlmanProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘Peacemaker’ Season 2 Finale and the ‘Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Trailer Reactions | The Midnight Boys
11 oktober 2025 · 2 uur 15 min
The boys are back, and they’re serving you all of their thoughts on the ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2 finale, and thus their thoughts on James Gunn’s vision for the season's end. They then dive into the trailers of the newest ‘Game of Thrones’ show, ‘Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,’ and the trailer for the upcoming ‘Wonder Man’ show. Lees meer
(0:00) Intro
(5:18) Reactions to ‘Peacemaker’ Season 2 Finale
(47:38) Peacemaker Season 2 Midnight Meter
(1:02:45) Reactions to ‘Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Trailer
(1:20:04) Reactions to ‘Wonder Man’ Trailer
Hosts: Van Lathan, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman
Producers: Aleya Zenieris and Jade Whaley
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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The Shocking EA Sale and ‘Ghost of Yotei’ Reactions | Button Mash
6 oktober 2025 · 1 uur 28 min
Ben, Matt James, and Justin Charity break down the bombshell news about Electronic Arts being sold for $55 billion, Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass price hike, and the showdown between ‘Battlefield’ and ‘Call of Duty.’ Then Ben, Matt, and Daniel Chin share their spoiler-free reviews of the new spiritual sequel to ‘Ghost of Tsushima,’ the PlayStation 5 exclusive ‘Ghost of Yotei.’ Lees meer
EA is being acquired (01:43)
Microsoft Xbox Game Pass price increase (14:04)
'Call of Duty' vs. 'Battlefield' (28:29)
'Ghost of Yotei' reactions (35:58)
Host: Ben Lindbergh
Guests: Matt James, Justin Charity, and Daniel Chin
Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman
Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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One Demon Slayer After Another | The Midnight Boys
2 oktober 2025 · 2 uur 39 min
The Midnight Boys are going to hell, finally sharing their reactions to ‘Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle.’ Later, the guys get into ‘One Battle After Another’ and all of the conversation around the Oscar favorite. Finally, the Boys do a quick check-in on ‘Peacemaker.’ Lees meer
Intro (00:00)
Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle (6:55)
One Battle After Another (1:17:47)
Peacemaker S2E6 (2:28:13)
Outro (2:36:22)
Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve AhlmanProducers: Chris Thomas, Jade Whaley, and Jamie YukichAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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Ringer-Verse Recommends: September 2025 (Featuring 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds')
1 oktober 2025 · 59 min
Hit it! Recommends returns to put a bow on a busy September. First, Ben brings on Ringer contributor Joshua Rivera for a spoiler-free conversation about 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds,' with an emphasis on the series' appeal, the ups and downs of Season 3, and the state and future of the franchise on both the big and small screens. After that, other Ringer-Verse hosts salute unsung releases to complete another expanded installment of the monthly roundup of fandom favorites from TV, anime, movies, video games, books, comics, and beyond that were released recently but not yet covered in-depth on a full-length episode. Lees meer
Host: Ben Lindbergh
Guests: Joshua Rivera, Jomi Adeniran, Steve Ahlman, Van Lathan, and Joanna Robinson
Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman
Social: Jomi Adeniran
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'Marvel Zombies' Deep Dive | Mint Edition
30 september 2025 · 1 uur
This week, Steve and Jomi are joined by Ringer writer Daniel Chin to share their spoiler-filled reactions to Marvel’s latest animated project, ‘Marvel Zombies.’ The trio discusses what worked, highlights the action, and breaks down where the series fell short. Lees meer
Intro (0:00)'Marvel Zombies' discourse (4:48)Outro (56:50)
Hosts: Jomi Adeniran and Steve AhlmanGuest: Daniel ChinProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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‘Hades II,’ ‘Silent Hill f,’ and ‘Wolverine’ Trailer Reactions | Button Mash
26 september 2025 · 1 uur 35 min
Ben and Rob Mahoney head back to the House of Hades for an in-depth (but spoiler-free) discussion of ‘Hades II,’ in which they explain how Supergiant’s sequel to ‘Hades’ somehow improves upon its near-perfect predecessor. Then Steve Ahlman arrives to react to ‘Silent Hill f,’ the recent ‘Silent Hill’ series resurgence, and the first trailer for ‘Spider-Man’ maker Insomniac’s next Marvel game, ‘Wolverine.’Intro (0:00)First Thoughts on 'Hades II' (2:54)'Silent Hill f' Reactions (50:46)Marvel’s 'Wolverine' Trailer (1:19:14)Outro (1:31:35)Host: Ben LindberghGuest: Rob Mahoney and Steve AhlmanProducer: Devon RenaldoAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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