Alle afleveringen
344 afleveringen, van nieuw naar oud
-
Special: An Interview With Tom Hardwidge Of Tall Story Games
3 november 2026 · 1 uur 38 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A lot of people talk about “making an indie game.” Far fewer talk about what happens after the hype, when you’re staring down a deadline, a Kickstarter budget, and a thousand tiny decisions that decide whether the game actually ships. We’re joined by Tom Hardwidge from Tall Story Games to get the real story behind building narrative, puzzle-driven point and click adventure games like Lucy Dreaming and the newly released Heir of the Dog.
We start where we always do with what we’ve been playing, then rewind through Tom’s gaming DNA: ZX Spectrum beginnings, Sierra-era PC adventures, saving up for a Super Nintendo, and why classic 2D design still holds up today. From there, Tom connects the dots between a career in digital marketing, web design, and Flash creative coding and the surprisingly direct skills you need for indie game development: interface design, player flow, fast prototyping, and learning by shipping.
Then we get into the part most dev diaries skip. Tom explains how Kickstarter funding really works in practice, why that money isn’t “profit” until every reward and invoice is paid, and how stretch goals like localization, music, and voice acting can change the math fast. We also talk hiring contractors, choosing collaborators you actually gel with, navigating Steam publishing, and what console porting to platforms like Nintendo Switch takes behind the scenes. Finally, Tom breaks down Heir of the Dog’s Victorian comedy premise and its core mechanic: using a pocket watch to shift time and solve puzzles as different forms.
If you enjoy indie games, pixel art, retro comedy, and honest creative process talk, hit subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave us a review so more people can find the show.
Tall Story Games https://share.google/pZDOnjtCAuOax7emS
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagra…
-
Please Someone Save Mass Effect Already!
25 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 22 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A studio can make a classic, get critical praise for years, and still end up fighting for its life when strategy changes at the top. We dig into the latest stories shaking up the gaming industry, starting with Arkane Lyon’s deadline drama and what it says about Xbox’s shifting priorities, restructures, and the brutal math behind modern AAA development.
The conversation gets even heavier with BioWare’s closure and the wave of fans asking for someone, anyone, to save Mass Effect. We talk through why “just buy the IP” is not simple, how risk aversion grows when budgets balloon into the hundreds of millions, and why big publishers cling to franchises even when they stop investing in the teams that made them special. Along the way, we ask the uncomfortable question: are indies carrying creativity right now while the biggest studios retreat to safer formulas?
To balance the doom, we also share what we’re playing on Switch 2 and beyond, including a genuinely fun Steam demo (All Pigeons Must Die), JRPG remake impressions, and the eternal comfort of Farming Simulator. And we end on a high note with Shigeru Miyamoto becoming the first game developer to receive Japan’s prestigious culture award, plus what that recognition means for games as culture and collaborative art.
Subscribe for weekly gaming talk, share this with a friend who’s worried about the industry, and leave a review with your take: should old franchises be revived at any cost, or is it better to make something new?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
A single item of yearly li…
-
Gaming’s Shift From Discs To Devices
18 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 44 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
PlayStation’s rumored end date for disc-based games is a grenade with the pin already pulled, and we’re not surprised fans are angry. We talk through what’s really behind the backlash: not just plastic boxes, but trust, ownership, resale, preservation, and the creeping feeling that consoles are turning into locked-down content terminals. We also dig into why the way you announce a digital-only future matters as much as the decision itself, especially with PS6 expectations looming and backward compatibility still a sore spot across generations.
Then we lighten it up with pure nostalgia fuel: Stuntman Hollywood. Licensed stunt stages built around Knight Rider, Back to the Future, Miami Vice, Jurassic World, and Fast and the Furious sound like a dream, but only if the driving feels right. We break down what we need from an arcade stunt game in 2026 and beyond, what could make the add-on model fair, and why we still want a truly great Knight Rider game that lets you live the fantasy, not just drive the car.
We also look at where gaming is heading when even a former PlayStation executive is praising the Xbox ROG Ally X20 OLED as a favorite handheld gaming PC. That leads into Switch 2 hype, including 007 First Light finally locking in a Switch 2 release date and the fun GoldenEye suit pre-order nod. Add in what we’ve been playing lately, from Bayonetta and eFootball to GRID, Shadow of Mordor, and Farming Simulator, and it’s a full spread of old-school comfort plus next-gen change.
Subscribe for weekly gaming chat, share the episode with a friend who still buys discs, and leave a review so more people can find the show. Where do you land on digital-only gaming, and what device do you actually want to play on next?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscript…
-
Pokemon Rumors, Physical Discs, And GTA 6 Radio Hype
11 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 19 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
One tiny icon can kick off a whole wave of hype. We spot Pokémon Home adding a “GBA Games” section for FireRed and LeafGreen connectivity, and it instantly raises the obvious question: are Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire headed for a Switch release next? We talk through why those Game Boy Advance Pokémon games still work today, why pixel art has aged better than people expect, and what Nintendo and The Pokémon Company tend to do when they know fans will pay full price anyway.
Then we get into the bigger industry tug-of-war: physical media versus all-digital. A headline-grabbing stat claims 51% of Marvel’s Wolverine sales in Europe were on disc, and we use that to dig into collecting, ownership, and what it means when platform holders talk about ending boxed releases. That turns into a wider chat about where we actually want to play right now and why convenience is starting to beat “maximum power” for everyday gaming.
We also go full Rockstar mode with GTA 6 radio stations, the return of station identity, and the genuinely exciting twist: on-demand podcasts you can listen to on foot with in-game headphones. If Rockstar nails that, it could be a new benchmark for immersion in open-world games.
We finish with community bits, Discord play-alongs, and what we’re queuing up next. If you like smart gaming chat with a lot of personality, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find us.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
A single item of yearly limited art merch
$8
Name read out on every show
Access to …
-
Uncharted Returns?
4 oktober 2026 · 1 uur 37 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Sony just dropped a late-generation curveball, and it could change how a lot of PS5 games look and run. We unpack QSSR, the refined AI upscaling tech coming to the base PlayStation 5, and why Digital Foundry’s early results (especially with Marvel’s Wolverine) have people asking a bigger question: is this a genuine performance boost for everyone, or a sign Sony wants to stretch the PS5 era longer while PS6 timing shifts?
From there, we get into the rumor we can’t stop thinking about: a new Uncharted game at Naughty Dog with Nathan Drake not leading the charge. We talk franchise endings that actually felt complete, the risk of running a beloved series into the ground, and why studios still lean on familiar IP when modern AAA budgets make “new ideas” feel like a gamble. If you’ve ever loved Uncharted and worried about the Halo effect, you’ll want to hear where we land.
Then we tackle the Xbox speculation straight on. Leadership says Xbox is not for sale, and we break down why that’s more believable than the rumor mill suggests, from Microsoft cloud infrastructure to Game Pass commitments and how hard it would be to untangle the brand. We also zoom out on where the console market is heading, with hardware like Project Helix sounding more like a PC-style platform play than the old box-war era.
We also hit what we’ve been playing on Switch 2, including Star Wars Outlaws, eFootball Kickoff, Witcher 3, and Shadow of Mordor, plus a quick heads-up on the Lottwick Hill giveaway. Subscribe, share the show with a gaming mate, and leave a review so more people can find us.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Acc…
-
PS6 Stats Released!
27 september 2026 · 1 uur 31 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A tiny settings menu can be the difference between “this port is rough” and “wait, this feels like I’m playing a Star Wars movie.” We start with what we’ve actually been playing on Switch 2, including Red Dead Redemption as a proof point for how good a well-tuned classic can feel on modern hardware. Then we get hands-on with Star Wars Outlaws, calling out the visual quirks that can ruin first impressions on a handheld and the simple changes that clean it up, especially film grain off and letterboxed film mode for a more cinematic look.
From there we zoom out to the bigger question: why are we all so angry about games lately? We talk about the gap between social media pile-ons and real playtime, and how “good for the money” is sometimes the most honest review category. Along the way we check in on what’s clicking (Wolverine’s pace and presentation) and what still needs time to land (Crimson Desert combat and deeper systems), plus the strangely relaxing pull of Farming Simulator once a proper British and Northern Ireland map shows up.
The news run brings the industry into focus: Obsidian shifting under the Bethesda group and what that might signal for future Fallout projects, the long silence around Elder Scrolls 6, and the uncomfortable reality of studio reshuffles. We also dig into PS6 rumors, from teraflops talk to ray tracing expectations, AI upscaling, a potential handheld companion, and the big one: price. We close with Nintendo news as Metroid Dread physical copies spike past $100 after Metroid Ravenous hype, raising the collector bubble question yet again.
If you enjoy sharp gaming takes with real player perspective, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave us a review so more people can find the podcast.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers game…
-
Wolverine’s Back And The Internet’s Mad
20 september 2026 · 1 uur 40 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Somebody finally said the quiet part out loud: modern AAA games can feel boring, not because the teams aren’t talented, but because the money and expectations push everyone toward safe choices. We get into that claim and what it means for game design, innovation, and why so many big releases end up feeling like variations on the same template, even when they look unbelievable in 4K.
Before the news, we talk real playtime. RGT is deep into Red Dead Redemption on the Switch 2 and still amazed that a once “big console” Rockstar game now feels natural as a handheld experience. George checks back in on Star Wars Outlaws and then dives into Crimson Desert, which keeps throwing new mechanics at you every minute, from chopping trees to learning combat moves through experience. And then we hit the hot topic: Insomniac’s Wolverine. We push past the noise, judge the game on its own merits, and explain why it feels like a modern take on that PS2 and PS3 era of tight, action-forward, story-driven brawlers, even if a couple of sections don’t fully land.
On the news side, we react to Bruce Straley’s comments about risk-averse AAA development, unpack a rumor that Media Molecule may be building a social simulation inspired by Animal Crossing and Harvest Moon, and then go deep on Xbox disc-to-digital. It’s a fascinating case study in how a decision made years ago can shape digital ownership today, and why library migration and game preservation are about to matter more than ever.
If you’re into PlayStation, Xbox, Switch 2, physical games, digital ownership, and where the industry goes next, hit subscribe, share the show with a gaming friend, and leave us a review with your take.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Acc…
-
Nintendo Direct....Our Picks
13 september 2026 · 2 uur
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Sony reportedly hits the brakes on a Kojima project, and the ripple effect is bigger than one canceled game. We talk through the Project Scient reporting, the mix of budget, deadlines, and exclusivity that may have pushed Sony to step away, and why Xbox scooping it up feels like a marquee moment. Then we get honest about where PlayStation sits for us right now, why our PS5s are gathering dust, and how quickly the “what am I even turning this on for?” feeling can take hold when the release cadence slows.
From there, we shift into the games we can’t stop thinking about. Red Dead Redemption on Switch 2 sparks a surprisingly useful conversation about remasters, nostalgia, and how portability changes the value equation. We also jump into Cyberpunk 2077 as a full-on redemption arc, especially with modern updates that make the world feel smoother and more cinematic, plus a few quick hits on deal pickups and side-quest chaos that only Night City can deliver.
Then it’s Nintendo time, because the Nintendo Direct September 2026 presentation is packed. We run through the biggest announcements and release dates, react to the Ocarina of Time remake, and debate the real question hanging over Switch 2: are we already seeing the performance “glass ceiling” on ambitious ports, and can VRR and 120Hz support help? If you like smart gaming talk with real opinions and a lot of curiosity, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a quick review so more people can find us.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
A single item of yearly limited art merch
… -
Nintendo Doubles Up On Directs And Gamers Take Notice
6 september 2026 · 1 uur 25 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
“Play anywhere” sounds great until someone starts the stopwatch. We kick off with what we’ve been playing, from Splatoon Raiders and retro Evercade arcade nights to revisiting GTA IV The Lost and Damned, soaking up the off-kilter Twin Peaks energy of Deadly Premonition, and squeezing Metal Gear Solid Peace Walker onto an increasingly crowded Switch 2 storage card. The throughline is simple: we love games, but we’re also feeling the pressure of how expensive and complicated the hobby can get.
Then we get into the big gaming news that has people arguing in comment sections. Xbox Cloud Gaming is reportedly adding monthly time limits by Game Pass tier, with Microsoft pointing to rising infrastructure costs and offering paid add-on hours. We talk about what that does to the “Xbox anywhere” pitch, who it hits hardest (especially TV and handheld streamers), and why even a small cap can change player behavior and trust.
On the PlayStation side, we unpack a key clarification around PS5 disc manufacturing capacity through 2028 and what it signals for physical media collectors, reorders, and the long runway toward a more digital future. We also debate what a PS6 without an internal disc drive could look like, and whether an external drive becomes the only realistic compromise for backwards compatibility.
We close on a brighter note with Nintendo announcing two Directs in the same week, including a Zelda 40th anniversary showcase, plus a Treehouse follow-up. If you’re hoping for an Ocarina of Time remake or just want a steady stream of good Switch 2 news, this is the kind of momentum we’ve been missing. Subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review, then tell us in the comments what you’re playing this week and which announcement would actually win you over.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X an…
-
GTA 6 Looks Like A Movie And That Changes Everything
30 augustus 2026 · 1 uur 48 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
GTA 6 looks like a movie, and that’s exactly why we can’t stop talking about it. We break down the Netflix extended look detail by detail, from Red Dead-style NPC interactions and a tougher police system to six-star wanted levels, denser crowds, improved aiming, and even the quiet “hang out at home” moments that make a world feel real. Then we hit the argument every console player has had at least once: is 30 FPS a dealbreaker when the visuals and animation quality are this ambitious, or is chasing 60 FPS the point of buying new hardware in the first place?
We also dig into The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt Remastered landing on Nintendo Switch 2, including what’s changing, why CD Projekt Red is still polishing a classic, and why a free upgrade for physical and digital owners matters when so many publishers charge for the same move. If you’ve been waiting for a reason to finally play Witcher 3 on handheld hardware without the old compromises, this is the moment worth watching.
To round it out, we talk about the industry shift that’s sitting behind everything: Xbox announcing a disc-to-digital program for thousands of games, the growing anxiety around physical media, and what “ownership” means when the future is clearly digital. If you care about game preservation, collecting, or just knowing your library won’t vanish, you’ll want to hear this one. Subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave us a review with your take: Team Graphics or Team Frame Rate?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
A single item of yearly limited art merch
$8
N…
-
Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube Drops Sunshine Plus More Big Gaming News
16 augustus 2026 · 1 uur 17 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Mario Sunshine popping up on Switch 2’s GameCube service should be simple news, but it turns into a bigger question we can’t stop poking at: why do some gaming subscriptions feel like a treat, while others feel like an endless shelf you never actually touch? We talk through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, the thrill of seeing new retro drops, and why having GameCube games portable can be more valuable than chasing original hardware, rising disc prices, and controller chaos. If you’re craving retro Nintendo, this one hits that nostalgic nerve in a practical way.
From there we jump to PlayStation and one of the juiciest tech claims of the week: Insomniac says Marvel’s Wolverine aims for 60 FPS with ray tracing enabled on the base PS5, with performance mode as the default. We break down why that matters, how it compares to the usual performance vs fidelity trade-off, and whether late-generation “wizardry” still delivers the kind of leap we remember from past console cycles. If smooth gameplay is your love language, you’ll have opinions here.
Then we get to the true wildcard for handheld performance: Crimson Desert on Switch 2. The developer says the port is already playable at a foundational level and is targeting the first half of 2027, but it still needs serious optimization to preserve the open world action adventure experience. We debate what an “impossible port” really means in 2026, what compromises show up first (pop-in, resolution, battery, frame rate), and why this could become the benchmark port everyone compares against.
If you enjoyed the conversation, subscribe for more weekly gaming talk, share the show with a friend who needs a fresh podcast, and leave a review so more players can find us. What’s the one game you’d pay anything to see running on Switch 2?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on i…
-
Switch 2 Becomes The Comfort Console
9 augustus 2026 · 1 uur 36 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
GTA 6 preorders are reportedly “exceptional,” Halo is back in the headlines for all the wrong reasons, and Nintendo is quietly building the coziest escape hatch in modern gaming. We’re George and RGT, and we spend this week juggling two truths at once: we love this hobby, and we’re tired of how exhausting the industry conversation can feel. So we start where it actually matters, with the games in our hands, not the outrage on our feeds.
RGT runs through a packed playlist, from Death on the Nile’s satisfying mystery solving to Farlands, a Stardew Valley style farming sim set in space where fuel, travel time, and a ship you can sleep in turn cozy routines into real planning. We also shout out Rogue Flight, a slick on-rails shooter that scratches that Star Fox itch with modern speed and buttery controls. On George’s side, Donkey Kong Bonanza brings chaotic destruction and big Nintendo energy, while Starfield on PS5 delivers incredible sound and story potential but also raises real questions about loading screens, menus, and how “space exploration” should feel minute to minute.
Then we hit the big news: what it means when GTA 6 marketing ties into a Netflix gameplay reveal, why “external contractor shifts” can be a convenient phrase after Halo Campaign Evolved ships, and why the Switch 2 third-party lineup feels like a rare bright spot. We’re not pretending compromises don’t exist, but we are saying this: portability plus strong ports might be the most honest value in gaming right now, and it’s making us want to play more, not argue more.
If you’re burned out on negativity but still want smart takes, game recommendations, and a reason to stay excited, press play. Subscribe, share the show with a friend who needs a gaming reset, and leave us a review with the one platform that still feels fun to you right now.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontro…
-
Tom Holland Picks His Favorite Game And Xbox Bets On Four C’s
2 augustus 2026 · 1 uur 46 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Tom Holland just dropped a gaming take that genuinely made us stop and go, wait, what. He says The Last of Us Part 2 is his favorite video game of all time, and he’s avoided the HBO series because he loves the game that much. We unpack why that actually makes sense for a performance-driven, narrative-heavy game, and we ask the bigger question: when a story hits you perfectly in game form, do you even want an adaptation messing with your headcanon?
From there we get into Xbox’s post-reset strategy, breaking down the “four C’s” priorities and what they could mean for console, Game Pass, and the push to stretch big IP across film, television, mobile, and live experiences. We translate the corporate language into gamer reality, including the parts that sound exciting and the parts that sound like the road to more monetization and more spin-offs.
Then we go straight into the messy stuff everyone’s feeling: physical vs digital games, the fear of losing access, and why storefront clarity matters if the industry expects us to go all-in on downloads. We also talk about rising console prices and the pressure AI chip demand puts on hardware supply, before ending on a more comforting note with Nintendo and the Ocarina of Time Switch 2 rating rumor. If you’ve got thoughts on ownership, subscriptions, or where console gaming goes next, subscribe, share the show, and leave a review so more people can find us.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
A single item of yearly limited art merch
$8
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat s…
-
Find out why this retro console is back !
26 juli 2026 · 58 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Sony’s relationship with physical media is getting rockier, Xbox is experimenting with ad-supported cloud streaming, and the whole industry feels like it’s testing how much friction players will tolerate before they push back. I’m flying solo for Episode 329, so we move fast and cover a wider mix of stories, including a couple of retro detours that hit the nostalgia sweet spot without ignoring the messy realities of modern gaming.
I also kick things off with what I’ve been playing, finishing Xenoblade Chronicles on the Switch 2 version and sharing why it’s such an easy recommendation for JRPG fans and open-world adventure lovers alike. I’m a few hours into Futures Connected, and I talk about why this DLC is the rare one that actually keeps me invested. Then I pivot to our community Gen 7 playthrough pick, Heavenly Sword, plus a very real PS Vita problem while trying to play Jak 3 when the rear touchpad keeps triggering first-person mode.
On the news side, we dig into reports of Sony tightening social media rules for staff while staying silent on the disc backlash, and we unpack what that silence does to trust. We also break down Xbox’s test that puts ads before cloud streaming sessions and why “it won’t interrupt gameplay” might not calm anyone down. To round it out, we highlight Monolith Soft quietly helping Nintendo ship big titles, check in on Hyperkin’s Superboy SNES handheld revival, and react to Hasbro’s first wave of Legend of Zelda action figures and the collector chaos that can follow.
If you enjoy smart gaming talk that spans PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, retro hardware, and collector culture, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review. What do you think about ads in gaming and the shift away from discs?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Ch…
-
We Break Down The PlayStation Boycott And What It Means For Everyone
19 juli 2026 · 1 uur 22 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
PlayStation fans are so furious about the move away from physical discs that some are telling people to buy third-party and indie games anywhere but PS5, and it raises a messy question: when you “vote with your wallet,” who actually feels it first? We dig into the disc debacle backlash, why comment sections have turned hostile, and why we think directing rage at small studios is the fastest way to miss the point while still doing real damage.
Before the news spiral, we keep it grounded with what we are playing. RGT is over 60 hours into Xenoblade Chronicles and staring down the final stretch, including the classic JRPG moment where you think you are done, then realize you are underleveled and happily disappear into side missions. George talks about saving Indiana Jones for an upcoming holiday, slowly picking through Final Fantasy VIII, and getting genuinely won over by Super Mario Bros Wonder. We also get nerdy about hardware and nostalgia, because the Switch N64 controller can instantly make Ocarina of Time, GoldenEye, and Jet Force Gemini feel “right” again.
On the Xbox side, we react to a batch of new console features like longer gamertags, improved library artwork, offline personalization, wish list shortcuts, and better cloud play prompts, all landing at a weird time for the industry. That kicks off a bigger, honest conversation about next-gen consoles, rumored PS6 pricing, broadband realities, and whether gaming is drifting toward an expensive, digital-only hobby built for the few instead of the many. If you have thoughts on discs, cloud gaming, or how you want to buy games in 2026 and beyond, share the episode, leave a review, and subscribe so you do not miss what comes next.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read o…
-
Brazil Challenges Sony Over Digital Game Ownership And Preservation
12 juli 2026 · 1 uur 47 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
You can feel the ground shifting under gaming right now, and not just because we’re playing more big-budget releases on handhelds. We start with what we’ve been obsessing over on Switch 2, including Xenoblade Chronicles and why its real-time JRPG combat still feels tactical, modern, and weirdly addictive once it clicks. We also get into the little realities of “upgraded classics” like pop-in and frame stutter, plus whether you can mainline the story without turning your life into a grind.
From there, George makes the case for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle as one of the best licensed games in years. We talk first-person exploration, surprisingly weighty fistfights, smart camera shifts during traversal, and the film-level details that make it feel like you’re living inside an Indiana Jones story. Final Fantasy VIII Remastered also gets its moment, including the love-hate relationship with junctioning, unskippable summon animations, and the kind of enemy level scaling that forces you to learn systems instead of out-leveling problems.
Then the conversation turns into something bigger than any one game: digital game ownership and game preservation. Brazil is pushing consumer-rights rules inspired by Stop Killing Games, while Sony’s disc-less direction raises hard questions about resale, lending, and what happens when stores shut down. We cap it off with Xbox news on id Tech after layoff rumors, plus a real debate about whether Microsoft should protect its internal engines or risk deeper dependence on Unreal Engine.
If you enjoyed the chat, subscribe, share the episode with a friend who still buys physical, and leave us a review. Where do you stand on all-digital consoles, and what would it take to change your mind?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
S…
-
The Day Gaming Died with Two And A Half Gamers UK
5 juli 2026 · 1 uur 19 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
The future of gaming is starting to feel less like progress and more like a contract you can’t read. We’re joined by Two and a Half Gamers UK to talk through the current state of modern gaming, starting with the GTA 6 digital controversy and why preordering a digital game can feel like paying for hype instead of securing a copy. If downloads never run out, what are we really buying and why are companies pushing us to commit early?
From there, we get into the bigger fears behind the PS6 disc drive rumors and the gut punch of storefront shutdowns. When older stores close and licenses expire, “purchased” can turn into “unavailable” overnight, and that changes how collectors think about game ownership, game preservation, and backward compatibility. We also talk about remakes and remasters, and how easy it is for publishers to quietly remove original versions and steer everyone into rebuying the new one.
We round it out with the hard questions: why Game Pass and PS Plus style subscriptions don’t always work like Netflix, why the console upgrade jumps feel smaller while prices climb, and why retro gaming prices could spike if physical media keeps shrinking. Plus, we end on pure nostalgia with the one-item-you-save-from-a-fire debate and where you can find the guests’ streams and vlogs.
If you care about physical games, digital-only consoles, and what it means to truly own your library, hit play, then subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave us a review.
Two and a half gamers YouTube-
https://youtube.com/@twoandahalfgamersuk?si=s6NwGEzwgxU2fm3KTwo and a half gamers uk Twitch - https://www.twitch.tv/twoand_a_halfga
Two and a half gamers uk Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/1EkEohABy3/
Harry's Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/hdriz.retro_rewind/
Aarron's Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/flippin_calisuk/
JC's Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/jc__dasilva/Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/…
-
Switch 2 Vs PS5 In Japan
28 juni 2026 · 1 uur 37 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Nintendo is spending 121 billion yen on a brand-new R&D center in Kyoto, Sony is selling a Japan-only PS5 at a loss, and the Switch 2 is still running away with the market. That combo says a lot about where gaming is headed, so we unpack it from the perspective that actually matters: how people live, how people play, and what they can realistically fit into a busy day.
We also get personal with the stuff you only hear when two longtime players are being honest. The Soulslike “rage fixation” loop, chasing lost XP, and realizing you’re wasting time just because you’re mad. The strange relief of stepping away from trophies and achievements, and how completionism can turn an amazing single-player game into a checklist. Plus the practical handheld angle: why Switch 2 ports can be “good enough” when the trade is gaming anywhere, anytime, without fighting the TV.
Then we zoom out to the bigger cultural shift: physical media, collector’s editions, and the slow death of the old ritual of saving up, buying a box, and actually owning what you paid for. Streaming and digital libraries are convenient, but the bill never ends and the licenses don’t love you back. If you’ve felt that tension between convenience and ownership, or between prestige consoles and real-life gaming time, you’ll feel seen here.
Subscribe for more weekly gaming talk, share this with a friend who’s stuck in trophy brain, and leave a review to help more players find the show. What’s winning your gaming time right now: power, portability, or pure comfort?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarte…
-
The gaming industry is imploding !?
21 juni 2026 · 1 uur 25 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Xbox chaos, PS6 uncertainty, and a tiny handheld that keeps embarrassing the “power” conversation all collide in one week. We sit down and talk through the reports of major Xbox layoffs and studios potentially on the chopping block, and what that does to creativity when teams are building games under constant fear and shifting strategy. If you’ve ever wondered whether acquisitions and exclusives actually fix the core problem, we wrestle with that head-on.
From there we jump to the next-gen elephant in the room: PS6 timing. With component costs surging and analysts hinting at a 2027 or even 2028 launch, we ask what Sony can realistically ship without pricing normal players out. If consoles creep toward $1,000, do we still get the classic “new generation,” or do we end up with a set-top-box style future where ecosystems matter more than hardware leaps?
And then Switch 2 barges in with the most interesting twist: Unreal Engine’s lighting updates and smarter scaling suggest software might be the real next-gen. We debate ray tracing vs baked lighting, why the difference often doesn’t matter unless you’re doing side-by-side tests, and why portability changes what “great performance” feels like. Along the way, we get into trophy chasing burnout, pick-up-and-play gaming, and the weird power of nostalgia when old favorites hit just right.
If you like smart gaming takes with a bit of chaos, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find us.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
A single item of yearly limi…
-
The Switch 2 Is Eating Everyone’s Lunch
14 juni 2026 · 2 uur 22 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
The Switch 2 is starting to feel less like a side console and more like the place where everything shows up, and that changes the whole mood of a gaming week. We’re coming in hot off our own playtime too: Forza Horizon 6 swallowing hours, Outbound delivering the kind of calm “camp, craft, and breathe” loop you can keep installed forever, plus early thoughts on 007 First Light and a surprisingly sticky return to Mass Effect Legendary Edition. On the nostalgia front, Donkey Kong 64 landing on Switch Online hits hard, even if modern button mapping reminds you the N64 era had its own kind of chaos.
Then we get into the main event: Nintendo Direct reactions with a wide-angle look at what Summer Games Fest season is really saying. We talk Switch 2 ports, performance trade-offs, and why day-and-date releases matter so much more than arguing about a few visual downgrades. If you’ve been waiting for the handheld to get “real console” support, this is the kind of lineup that makes people look twice, whether you’re Nintendo-only or you already own everything else.
We also pull on two threads that matter beyond hype. First, we finally explain why South Korea keeps “leaking” unannounced games: it’s largely GRAC and the Game Industry Promotion Act forcing ratings info into public view. Second, we react to Xbox leadership outlining five hard realities and a “next 100 days” business reset, from shrinking margins and rising hardware component costs to overextended studios and platform infrastructure problems, plus what that might mean for exclusives, Game Pass, and future hardware plans like Project Helix.
If you enjoy straight-shooting gaming news with real opinions, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave us a review so more people can find the show.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you a…
-
PS5 State Of Play Reactions With Wolverine Hype And God Of War Alpha Debate
7 juni 2026 · 2 uur
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Wolverine finally steps out of rumor land and into real gameplay, and it immediately raises the bar for what we expect from PS5 action. George is joined by returning Bobby and OG for a full reaction to PlayStation’s State of Play June 2026, and we don’t just list trailers. We pull apart what looks finished, what feels like smoke and mirrors, and what actually sounds fun when the controller is in your hands.
God Of War Freya sparks a proper debate, from the “coming soon” messaging to the bigger question of whether Santa Monica is building a wider God of War universe through an afterlife setting. We also dig into Until Dawn 2 and why horror sequels keep happening even when nobody asked for a number on the box, plus Silent Hill Townfall’s first-person approach and the vibe shift that comes with it. On the hype side, Wolverine’s movement, healing, and cinematic pacing have us way more optimistic than we expected, especially after feeling a bit jaded by recent big sequels.
Then we zoom out to the business and the reality of modern gaming: PS5 pricing, Xbox Series X|S UK sales jumping with a Forza boost, and the uncomfortable truth that exclusives still sell hardware even in a multi-platform world. We close with Elden Ring Tarnished Edition landing on Switch 2, what “full price” means when DLC is included, and whether any of us would actually replay a masterpiece just because it’s portable.
If you like smart gaming talk with jokes that don’t kill the analysis, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review so more players can find us.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to ungloriou…
-
Modern Warfare 4 Hits Switch 2 As Steam Deck Prices Jump
31 mei 2026 · 1 uur 32 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Call of Duty Modern Warfare 4 on Switch 2, a Steam Deck price hike that makes your wallet flinch, and a fresh rumor that Witcher 3 is getting a full-blown expansion sized like Phantom Liberty. That is the kind of week that forces a real question: are we heading into a future where gaming gets better, or just more expensive?
We start with the stuff that actually fills our nights, from Ball X Pit on Switch 2 and why its speed and run loop gets dangerously addictive, to Hades 2 nearing the finish line, plus the surprise “why is this so good?” pull of Lego Batman. George then takes us on a story-time detour through Kingdom Come Deliverance, where one quest turns into a chaotic night out and the kind of consequences only an RPG can deliver. We also get into Knights of the Old Republic on Switch 2, including that endgame pressure where every door feels like it opens into another squad of enemies.
From there we hit the news: Modern Warfare 4 landing day-and-date on Switch 2 and what that signals for Nintendo players who want major franchises without feeling left behind. We debate the Steam Deck price increase, the weird reality of this console generation where prices go up instead of down, and whether graphics have basically peaked for most of us already. Finally, we dig into the Witcher 3 expansion talk and wrap with some old-school joy as Donkey Kong 64 joins Nintendo Switch Online.
If you enjoy smart gaming chatter with a lot of personality, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave us a review. What headline matters more to you right now: Switch 2 getting COD, Steam Deck getting pricier, or Witcher 3 getting new life?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of disc…
-
Ball’s to Xbox ?
25 mei 2026 · 1 uur 38 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A classic RPG throws us into court twice, Sony quietly trademarks a new PS5 name, and Embracer keeps rearranging the board like it’s playing 4D chess with the entire games industry. George and Bobby are back together and we start with the fun stuff: what we’re playing when time is tight. Bobby is grinding Hades 2 in bite-sized runs, sneaking in Nine Lives to Defend for that Vampire Survivors energy, and we both get pulled into the odd charm of Vampire Crawlers, a first-person deckbuilding dungeon crawler that feels like an old 80s maze with modern roguelike hooks.
Then George tells the latest chapter of his Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic journey, including the kind of legal “you’re under arrest” chaos only KOTOR would dare to spring on you after a totally reasonable amount of Sith-related explosions. From there we hit the headlines: Embracer Group’s plan to spin off Fellowship Entertainment and what that means for major IP like Lord of the Rings and Middle-earth, Tomb Raider, Kingdom Come Deliverance, and a long list of fan-favorite dormant series. We also build the ultimate wish list for a modern Lord of the Rings video game, aiming for a grounded open-world RPG that feels like a dangerous journey instead of a checklist.
On the platform side, we react to Sony’s PS5 trademark for Break In and talk frankly about PlayStation’s live service push, why Helldivers 2 hit, and why so many similar games bounce off players. We close by looking at Xbox hiring analyst Matthew Ball to strengthen the console business as Project Helix approaches, and why real competition still matters for prices, features, and exclusives.
If you’re into gaming news, industry strategy, PlayStation vs Xbox debates, and RPG war stories, you’ll feel right at home. Subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review with your dream Lord of the Rings game pitch.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then messa…
-
He’s Back: Bobby Returns | UCP Special
20 mei 2026 · 1 uur 18 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Bobby’s back in the chair with the best kind of life update: he’s a new dad, and somehow he’s still finding time to game. We talk about what that really looks like in practice, from sleep regressions and bedtime routines to the simple strategy that keeps his hobby alive: pick the right games for the right moments, and don’t pretend you’re still living in a pre-baby schedule.
From there we get straight into the backlog and the highlights. Bobby breaks down Reanimal vs Little Nightmares 3, celebrates his 400th platinum with Astro Bot, and explains why roguelikes have become his sweet spot. We also dig into Hades 2 and how the new character and magic-focused combat changes the flow, plus why the story structure keeps pulling you into “one more run.” If you’re curious about the PlayStation Portal, we revisit our original skepticism and admit the cloud streaming update changes the whole conversation, especially for PlayStation Plus Premium users with strong Wi-Fi.
Then we go where gaming podcasts are supposed to go: the hot takes. Sons Of Sparta gets a deep dive, Spider-Man 2 gets called out for losing momentum and undercutting its villains, and we wrestle with that bigger feeling a lot of PS5 players know too well: burnout, even when the graphics are stunning. We close with the Pragmata demo surprise, dream remakes like classic God of War and Manhunt, and a wild side chat about what modern media ratings allow. Subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave us a review, what game recently made you feel that “magic” again?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of disc…
-
Have Graphics Peaked Or Are We Just Finally Satisfied
17 mei 2026 · 1 uur 41 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A game gets a 10 out of 10 and the internet turns feral. We start with Mixtape, the “walking simulator” lightning rod, and talk through what it actually delivers: a nostalgic, music-led narrative with just enough interaction to keep you moving, plus a bigger point about why review scores get treated like verdicts instead of opinions. If you’ve ever looked at a rating and felt your blood pressure spike, you’ll recognize the whole cycle and maybe rethink what “perfect” even means for a genre.
Then we shift from vibes to systems with Pragmata Sketchbook, a demo that feels like a real vertical slice. Once the combat loop clicks, it becomes the kind of repeatable run that’s easy to boot up, experiment with, and obsess over. From there, George falls back into Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic on Switch, rediscovers why it’s legendary, and re-learns the oldest RPG lesson the hard way: save early, save often.
On the news front, Sony’s PS5 Welcome Hub beta is teasing Steam-like visibility with weekly player counts and trending surges, which leads to a debate about whether the home screen should be cleaner or more data-rich. We also unpack Ken Levine’s take on graphics diminishing returns, stylized art direction, and why chasing photorealism can be an expensive trap. And yes, we hit Hell Let Loose Vietnam, why Vietnam FPS games are oddly rare, and how jungle maps and riverboat chaos could make this one a clip machine.
If you enjoyed the ride, subscribe, share the show with a gaming friend, and leave a review so more people can find us. What game score has made you feel personally attacked?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name rea…
-
Sony Burned HOW Much on This?!
10 mei 2026 · 2 uur
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Microsoft Flight Simulator landing on PSVR2 is not just a curiosity, it’s a genuine “wait, why is this so good?” moment. We’re talking cockpit presence, Sense controller switch-flipping, 3D audio, and that sweaty high-stakes feeling you only get when VR turns a small mistake into a full-body panic. I walk through the messy first impressions, the key settings tweaks, and why the career mode structure makes the whole thing addictive on PS5 Pro and still compelling flat-screen.
Before we hit the headlines, we swap hands-on thoughts on two demos with totally different vibes. Pragmata delivers sharp sci-fi action with a satisfying hacking grid that slows time and creates a clean combat rhythm, plus a real-world comparison of Switch 2 versus PS5 that surprised us with how close the experience feels. Outbound goes the other direction: a cozy camper-van road trip where the best moment might be sitting inside during the rain, and we can’t stop saying the same thing, this genre is begging for VR.
Then we dig into the big business question of the week: Bungie and Sony. We break down what an impairment loss actually signals, why live service strategy keeps blowing up, and what Marathon’s traction says about the risk of chasing the next forever game. We round it out with PlayStation’s preservation team spotlight and a Switch sales check-in as Nintendo inches toward the PS2 record while price hikes threaten the finish line.
If you enjoyed the ride, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave us a review. What’s the one game you wish every publisher would preserve forever?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show…
-
PlayStation Charges Players More, Xbox Struggles To Make Money
3 mei 2026 · 1 uur 41 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Refurbished PS5 consoles just got $100 more expensive, and that single move says a lot about where console gaming is headed. We (Georgie and RGT) kick things off with what we’ve been playing, including Infamous Second Son not quite clicking, a surprisingly addictive budget zombie driving game, FIFA career mode obsession, and a first hour with Coral Island on PS Plus. If you’ve ever tried a new cozy farm and life sim and immediately felt the gravitational pull back to Stardew Valley, you’re not alone.
From there we dig into the big consumer story: rising PlayStation 5 prices and what it means when even “refurbished” stops being the affordable option. We talk digital vs physical games, how cloud saves and instant downloads change buying habits, and why these price jumps can push more players toward PC gaming and Steam libraries.
We also hit two headlines that capture the extremes of the industry. Final Fantasy VII’s director says he’s already completed over 40 full playthroughs of the third game, which is equal parts reassuring and slightly unhinged. Meanwhile, Microsoft says Xbox is recommitting to core fans as revenue falls, and we debate whether that’s real momentum, narrative management, or the start of a long rebuild.
If you enjoy gaming news with real talk, chaotic banter, and practical takes on price, value, and what to play next, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review. What’s your line in the sand: would you pay today’s prices for a refurbished PS5 or are you done?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
A s…
-
Switch 2 already getting left behind
26 april 2026 · 1 uur 39 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Xbox rarely says the quiet part out loud, but this week they come close. George and RGT unpack a massive leadership statement that admits real pain points, from pricing fatigue to a fragmented console experience, plus a sharper focus on PC, cloud gaming, and what “daily active players” means for the future of the Xbox platform and Game Pass. We talk about what sounds like genuine course correction, what still feels like corporate fog, and what we actually want to see if Xbox is serious about rebuilding trust.
Then we zoom back in to the games themselves, because the best way to judge any platform is how it feels in your hands. We dig into Switch 2 boost mode and how it can make older Nintendo Switch games feel newly playable, including Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag through the Rebel Collection. We also react to Ubisoft’s Black Flag Resync plans for 2026, the surprise confirmation that the original release will not be delisted, and the trade-offs of losing multiplayer and DLC in favor of a pure story-driven adventure.
To round it out, we do what we do best: swap honest “what we’ve been playing” notes and surface a proper hidden gem. RGT brings The Good Old Days, a retro Metroidvania with Goonies energy, quick restarts, and multiple endings. Along the way we hit Infamous Second Son impressions, a PS3 throwback with Turning Point, and a bit of Sega Universe speculation about reviving classics like OutRun and Streets of Rage.
If you like gaming podcasts that mix real-world platform strategy with grounded game talk, subscribe, leave a review, and share the show with a friend who still has a soft spot for the classics.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quart…
-
Lana del Ney ! - 007 First Light theme reveal
19 april 2026 · 1 uur 48 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
OLL 26 in Norwich hits that rare sweet spot where a retro gaming event feels both exciting and genuinely comfortable. We talk about why the Epic Studios venue gave off a GamesMaster-style studio vibe, how John and the team kept everything running smoothly, and what it’s like when listeners travel in just to hang out, talk games, and share a pint. We also break down the setups that drew the biggest crowds, including a live Challenge Accepted station built around Final Fantasy IX on a PS1 CRT, plus the on-stage Console Wars showdown and where you can watch the filmed version.
Then we get back to what we’re actually playing, bouncing between PS3, PS2, and modern oddities. RGT finishes Infamous 2 and explains why it’s a stronger sequel, then raves about Thank Goodness You’re Here as a sharply written British comedy game with Yorkshire flavor. George confesses to a Game Dev Story relapse, checks in on Clair Expedition 33, and falls hard for Midnight Club 3 Dub Edition after a bargain pickup, before giving a brutally honest update on the chaotic curiosity that is Seven Sins.
The news gets spicy: we unpack Samson’s roadmap and its 2026 console release window, debate the Neo Geo Plus AES and the red flags around preorders and value comparisons, and react to Lana Del Rey releasing the official theme for 007 First Light. If you care about retro gaming, gaming community, PS2 and PS3 recommendations, and consumer skepticism, you’ll feel right at home. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves retro, and leave a review with the strangest game you’ve ever bought.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglor…
-
Xbox Tweaks Achievements And Suddenly PlayStation Fans Want Trophy Love
12 april 2026 · 1 uur 49 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
PS5 trophy hunters are getting restless, Nintendo fans are debating an $80 Elden Ring on Switch 2, and Xbox is suddenly racking up “micro wins” that feel bigger than they should. We sit down and talk through the stories behind the headlines, then pull them back to the real question: what changes actually improve your day-to-day gaming, not just the marketing bullet points?
We also catch up on what we’re playing right now, starting with a proper love letter to Infamous 2 on PS3 and why that era of open world design still hits when the movement is smooth and the game feels like a “toy” you want to keep picking up. From there we slide into Switch 2 comfort gaming with Easy Delivery Co, where the best strategy is not speed, but savoring the routes, the vibes, and the small wins. And yes, we get into Clair Obscure: Expedition 33 and the moment you realize the combat asks for more timing and precision than you expected from a turn-based RPG.
On the news side, we break down what Xbox is changing with achievements, why a dedicated fan feedback team matters, and how that’s already nudging PlayStation fans to ask for PS5 trophy upgrades like 100% highlights and pinned trophies. Then we tackle Elden Ring Tarnished Edition on Nintendo Switch 2, the $79.99 game key card listing, and what “new to the system” should mean for pricing in 2026.
Listen now, then come tell us what you think: should Sony revamp trophies, is $80 fair for Elden Ring on Switch 2, and what small feature would you add to your console profile? Subscribe, share the show, and leave a review if you want to help us keep it rolling.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name re…
-
Nintendo drops Mario for who ?
5 april 2026 · 1 uur 41 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Easter week starts with a simple message that immediately goes off the rails: share the egg. From there, we settle into what we’ve been playing across console, Switch, PS Portal, and PC handheld life, and the list is wonderfully weird. RGT finishes Bang Average Football and explains why it’s such a tight, satisfying indie sports game, then introduces Nutmeg, a retro football management sim staged inside a 1980s office complete with green-screen finance screens and a card-based way of playing match highlights. He also jumps into BeamNG.drive, the physics-forward driving sandbox where realistic car damage and mods turn every session into a new experiment.
On my side, I’m still stubbornly wrestling with Ken, a punishing climbing loop that makes pride the real difficulty setting. I also dip back into Farming Simulator on PS5 through PS Portal cloud streaming and get a surprisingly smooth experience with saves and mods. Then we talk Easy Delivery Co, the kind of cozy management game that feels relaxing once you learn it, even if the menus and fuel economy can fight you early on.
The news gets spicy: Sony confirms a TCL joint venture that effectively spins off the iconic Bravia TV business, which raises the bigger question of whether Sony is steadily marching toward a pure entertainment and content future. We also dig into Xbox leadership optics through Asha Sharma’s gamer tag activity and why “not being a hardcore gamer” might actually be fine if the strategy is right. Then Nintendo enters the chat with Miyamoto’s mission to put Pikmin everywhere, including upcoming media.
If you want more of this energy, come join the Discord, hit us with questions, and if you’re near Norwich, grab OLL tickets and come say hi. Subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find us.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.c…
-
PS5 Prices Rise Again And We Ask Why
29 maart 2026 · 1 uur 55 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
PS5 prices going up this late in the generation feels wrong, and we don’t sugarcoat it. George and RGT dig into Sony’s newly announced PS5, PS5 Pro, and PS Portal price increases, what’s being blamed (tariffs, supply pressure, RAM demand), and why it lands so badly when players already feel the squeeze. If you’ve been waiting to buy a PlayStation 5 or wondering whether a PS5 Pro is still worth it, this one is for you.
On the gear side, RGT brings the week’s most practical upgrade: the Lenovo Legion Go S, a SteamOS handheld gaming PC aimed at entry-level buyers who want Steam without the Windows hassle. We talk screen feel, controls, ergonomics, fan noise, battery life, charging speed, and why a simple login-and-play experience matters. Then it’s back to what we’re actually playing, from Bang Average Football to the strangely addictive Easy Delivery Company, a PS1 style delivery sim with real survival management tension.
We also hit the wider platform mood: Xbox retiring the “This Is An Xbox” marketing campaign, what that says about brand confusion, and how cloud gaming should fit around consoles, not replace them. Finally, Hades 2 news brings some joy with bonus content and quality of life improvements on the horizon, plus we share details on meeting up at OLL in Norwich.
Subscribe on YouTube, share the show with a gaming friend, and leave a review if you want more weekly chatter like this. What’s the one gaming purchase you’d make before prices jump?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
A single item of yearly limited art merch
$…
-
Shenmue 3 Costs Two Hundred Bucks And Still Might Need A Patch
22 maart 2026 · 1 uur 47 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A game called Bang Average Football has no right to be this addictive, and yet it completely derails our week. We talk through the exact moment it clicks: the Stardew-style town loop, the light RPG quests that drip-feed stat upgrades, and the surprisingly satisfying matches that feel like a modern take on Sensible Soccer. If you’ve been craving a cozy indie that still delivers that competitive “one more game” rush, our play-by-play will tell you whether it’s your next obsession.
Then we jump into the kind of news we love: weird, specific, and full of personality. Easy Delivery Co looks like a lost PS1 title, mixing foggy horror mood with delivery driving and small vehicle upgrades, and we’re fully bought in on the vibe. We also debate Shenmue 3 Enhanced landing on Switch 2 with loud promises about being fully on cartridge, plus the bigger question that never goes away: what do physical editions actually need to offer before the price becomes nonsense?
To round it out, we dig into platform updates and what they signal. Xbox finally rolls out long-requested dashboard features like custom colors and the ability to disable Quick Resume per game. We share impressions of Switch 2 boost mode, talk PS5 Pro’s PSSR2 update and why “pro” upgrades can feel half-finished, and get real about PlayStation Portal streaming depending more on your home Wi‑Fi than the marketing. Subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review, then tell us what indie game has surprised you lately.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
A single item of yearly…
-
If The Next Xbox Is A PC What Is A Console
15 maart 2026 · 2 uur 2 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A game can look like a glitchy mess to everyone watching and still feel amazing in your hands and Cairn is our proof. We break down why its limb-by-limb climbing, stamina management, and piton “mini-saves” create real tension and real relief, the kind of accomplishment most modern games chase but rarely earn. If you’ve been hunting for a new PS5 game that feels different, or you just love design talk that goes deeper than graphics, this one gets into the details.
Then we jump across generations with the kind of playlist only a weekly gaming podcast can justify: RGT wraps up Remember Me and explains why its memory-driven sci-fi story still works, even when the difficulty spikes feel out of nowhere. We swap party-night memories from Jackass on PS2, talk Metroid Prime 4 on Switch 2 including performance options and that classic Metroid backtracking sting, and revisit Ratchet and Clank as a reminder that tight controls and strong art direction never go out of style. RGT also shares Bristol pickups and the oddly satisfying logic of trading piles of “shelf filler” into something you actually want to keep.
On the news side, we dig into The Seventh Guest remake landing on PS5 without VR and what that signals about PSVR2 support, marketing, and why VR only truly shines when the physical setup matches what your brain expects. We also unpack Xbox Project Helix and the bigger question it raises: if Microsoft leans harder into Windows, Steam, and a cross-device “Xbox mode,” what even counts as a console anymore? If you enjoy gaming industry news with real player perspective, hit play, then subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave us a review. What’s the one game you’re obsessed with right now?
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read…
-
Why Console Exclusives Might Be Back And What That Means For Players
8 maart 2026 · 1 uur 58 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A horror game that makes you pause, breathe, and come back braver. A port on Switch 2 that shouldn’t look this good. And a platform holder that might be quietly ending the PC honeymoon. This week we dive into Resident Evil Requiem’s two‑minded design—high‑octane third‑person set pieces with Leon and nerve‑tightening first‑person sequences with a heroine who turns every hallway into a heartbeat test. That shift in perspective isn’t a gimmick; it rewires how you play, when you push, and when you hide. Even better, we were floored by how well the Switch 2 version holds up, delivering sharp visuals and responsive combat that put it closer to PS5 and Xbox than the memes admit.
From there, we zoom out. Sony reportedly pulling back on PC ports of prestige single‑player games (think Ghost of Yotai and future tentpoles) could mark a real return to platform identity. Love it or hate it, exclusivity can focus craft and give buyers a reason to be in a given ecosystem. We unpack why the math might make sense—PC revenue’s sliver versus PS5’s record haul—and what it could mean for players who split time across platforms.
We keep it playful too: a fiasco with GoldenEye on 3DS for a speedrun challenge, a comfort‑food detour into Disney Planes on 3DS that proves short missions can be great design, and a Bristol Gaming Market roundup where we met the minds behind Nippon Marathon and discovered Crisis Island, a twin‑stick contender with Smash TV bite. Quick wins on your radar: Assassin’s Creed Unity’s 60 FPS patch breathes new life into a misunderstood entry, Kenna: Bridge of Spirits heads to Switch 2 with Anniversary DLC and New Game+, and March drops bring Legacy of Kain love, Monster Hunter Stories 3, MLB The Show tweaks, and more.
If you’re here for honest takes, retro tangents, and the thrill of finding games that surprise you, you’re in the right place. Hit play, then tell us: are you Team First‑Person Fear or Team Third‑Person Flex? Subscribe, share with a …
-
Cats, Cars, And Consoles: When Breeding Kittens Preps You For Gran Turismo
1 maart 2026 · 2 uur 19 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A cat-breeding tactics roguelike that plays like Fire Emblem meets house management, a physics-forward indie platformer channeling N64 energy, and a survival-strategy Star Trek game that’s equal parts engrossing and maddening—this week’s journey is a snapshot of where gaming stands in 2026. We start with the indie crown: why Big Hops feels like a smart, compact alternative to the wait between tentpoles, and how Mewgenics turns genetics, classes, and brutal runs into a dangerously compelling loop with real staying power.
From there, we tackle the heavy stuff. Skate’s layoffs bring the live-service crunch into focus: when players already “live” inside Fortnite, Warzone, or Destiny, new games must explain their fun in five minutes and make updates feel like gifts, not chores. We lay out which recent services actually worked and why most don’t. Then we hit hardware and strategy. The rumor of Gran Turismo 7 running on Switch 2 sparks a real question about fit—without analog triggers, sim racing loses finesse. That’s our entry point to the bigger debate: are exclusives still the engine of platform identity, or should they travel? We make the case for when to keep them, when to share them, and why Forza Horizon might be Xbox’s best lever to win hearts back without losing reach.
We also compare notes on Star Trek Voyager’s resource grind, the joys and annoyances of opaque crafting trees, and how a retro-styled God of War Metroidvania leans into smaller scope to deliver clearer fun. Along the way: Nintendo eShop curation gripes, sensible ports, and what a tightened Sony focus could mean for PlayStation’s next wave.
If you want practical takeaways: look for games that respect your time, understand their hardware, and tell you exactly why they’re special—fast. Hit play for sharp analysis, a few laughs, and real talk about where the fun is in 2026. If you enjoyed this one, subscribe, share it with a friend, and drop a review telling us which side you’re on…
-
A Studio Shuts, A Space RPG Pivots, And A Cult Golf RPG Steals The Show
22 februari 2026 · 1 uur 54 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A PS3 classic gets its flowers, a remake titan goes dark, and space RPG promises meet reality. We kick off with Infamous, celebrating the late-game difficulty, clever traversal design, and that unforgettable twist that still shocks. It’s a perfect reminder that bold storytelling and tight systems can outlast any hardware cycle—and why Gen 7 games deserve more love in 2026.
From there, we jump into what’s been on our controllers: Tiger Woods 12 remains dangerously addictive with its soothing palette and career grind; Africa on PS3 brings cozy-photo vibes with rough starter gear; and Switch 2 becomes a comfort zone for Cast & Chill and a full-fat Farming Simulator 17 portable loop. Then we crown a hidden gem you can play tonight: Golf Story on Switch, a top-down RPG-golf hybrid with charming writing, satisfying stat growth, and themed courses that keep the loop fresh. If you want progression without bloat, it’s a must.
The news section hits hard. Sony reportedly shuts down Bluepoint Games, the studio behind Demon’s Souls and Shadow of the Colossus remakes. We unpack why even elite teams face risk in a tightened market—long timelines, delayed returns, and live-service experiments that never land. It’s a sign of the times: strategic pivots, fewer bets, and tough calls. Talent won’t vanish, though—expect Bluepoint veterans to power new successes sooner than you think.
We also parse Todd Howard’s update tease for Starfield. It’s “not 2.0,” but aims to change the game in a meta way—especially in space. Fans will likely be happy; skeptics shouldn’t expect a total conversion. Our wishlist: deeper space loops, industrial play, and richer reasons to leave the ship. Finally, nostalgia returns with a price tag: Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen drop on Switch a la carte for $19.99 each, skipping Switch Online. Great access, sure, but the value question lingers—should classic titles bring added features or bundled options?
If you’re into smart game design, indu…
-
PlayStation State Of Play: Hits, Surprises, And What’s Worth Your Time
15 februari 2026 · 2 uur 2 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
If you’ve been waiting for a PlayStation showcase that actually lands, this is the one. We kick off with what we’ve been playing—FF7 Rebirth, Art of Rally’s glorious adaptive triggers, and a guilty fling with Need for Speed: The Run—then dive into a State of Play that surprised us with real momentum and almost no fluff. Our rule of thumb is simple: does it feel good in the hands? With that lens, a 2D, CRT-kissed God of War: Sons of Sparta pops hard, and the God of War Trilogy remake tease sets the table for newcomers and purists. Kena returns with better lighting and a more mature edge, PS Plus adds smart classics like Time Crisis with gyro, and Metal Gear Solid 4 finally breaks free from PS3.
From there, the variety is the story. John Wick’s AAA project looks like the movies in motion, Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse taps the right studios to make “vania” sing again, and Project Windless promises a wide-open RPG with light handholding. Silent Hill Townfall leans into looping seaside dread, while Sauros takes Returnal’s kinetic combat and wraps it in a clearer hub, meaningful meta-progression, and clever modifiers. Control: Resonant shows Remedy’s best instincts—morphing melee forms and wall-running through bending space—while Resident Evil Requiem brings back an older Leon and a battered RPD for a perfectly pitched nostalgia hit.
Two reveals steal the show. Star Wars Galactic Racer finally nails speed and spectacle, layering Unreal-caliber vistas with a story wrapper that suggests meaningful upgrades and rivalries. Then 007: Origins arrives with the perfect premise: a relaunch of the double O program that makes Bond feel fresh, grounded, and tactile, with set pieces and traversal that evoke the best of modern action design. We round it out with Legacy of Kain: Defiance remastered with right-stick camera, a sharp creature-collecting ARPG with DMC-style juggles, the long-weird Pragmata, Big Walk’s co-op comedy, and a tactics nod for Brigandine fans.…
-
Why GTA Clones Still Matter Even When They Don’t Win
8 februari 2026 · 1 uur 49 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
What if the games we finish fastest tell us the most about what we love? That question runs through this week’s ride as we finish Sleeping Dogs, return to Infamous on PS3, and unearth a shockingly good £2 ARPG on PSP. We dig into why “GTA clones” can still hit hard—when combat feels right, pacing stays lean, and the city serves the story instead of stealing the spotlight. Sleeping Dogs’ Arkham‑style counters, rain‑slick neon, and compact side content become a masterclass in approachable design, while DLC hints at the longer, better version that almost was.
Then we jump to Infamous and the magic of a first entry. It’s smaller and a bit “toy‑town,” but that’s the point: traversal clicks, morality choices land fast, and every rooftop feels like a move you’re meant to chain. We talk series DNA—from early parkour and power ramps to how sequels polish away the edges some of us actually crave. On handheld, we split time between Cast and Chill’s soothing idle‑meets‑strategy loop and Dungeon Siege: Throne of Agony on PSP, an isometric ARPG that proves short sessions can still deliver satisfying builds, readable loot, and bite‑sized maps worth clearing.
News-wise, we cover Xbox’s reported controller refresh with Wi‑Fi for lower cloud latency and what that means for feel, haptics, and play-anywhere ambitions. We also break down Switch 2’s Bethesda wave—Oblivion Remastered, Fallout 4, and Skyrim Anniversary—why “code in a box” frustrates collectors, and why an Indiana Jones game card matters for physical fans. And yes, the headline you didn’t see coming: Dovetail Games (Train Sim World) is crafting a full Thomas and Friends adventure with a faithful Sodor, simplified controls for kids, and realistic options for sim diehards. Unexpected? Absolutely. But authenticity plus warmth is a formula we’ll always root for.
Stick around for our new weekly release cadence, community playthrough invites, and what we’re playing next. If you care about tight mechanics, cl…
-
Indie Heat And Final Fantasy Feels
1 februari 2026 · 1 uur 52 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A cozy fishing sim, a classic turned modern, and a debate that might change how you buy games this year. We kick off with Cast and Chill on Switch—the prettiest pixel art water you’ll see—then jump straight into Final Fantasy I Pixel Remaster, where party roles, fast saves, and auto-battle make retro feel fresh. From there, the stakes rise: Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 quietly teaches while you play, Expedition 33 hits like a movie with an intro that lingers, and Blue Reflection 2 shows why mid-tier JRPGs can charm and frustrate in equal measure.
The big question threads it all together: what’s the real value of a game in 2026? We challenge the $70 price tag, unpack why fall release windows don’t own the calendar anymore, and dig into the GTA effect—how a single date can warp everyone else’s plans. Along the way, we compare 100-hour epics to a cadence of tight, 15–40 hour experiences. Think Miles Morales, Lost Legacy, and compact RPGs that respect your time without skimping on heart. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth gets a spotlight for opening up its world with smart towers, clean crafting loops, and some of the most satisfying combat on PS5.
Then we turn the spotlight to indies poised to steal the year. Mio: Memories in Orbit brings Metroidvania mystery with watercolor vibes. Romeo Is A Dead Man swings for stylish hack-and-slash swagger. Mouse PI: For Hire blends steamboat-era noir with punchy FPS action. Screamer gives racers an anime story and neon-drenched drift. And Slay the Spire 2 looms like the roguelike deckbuilder to beat. Whether you chase platinum trophies or lunch-break wins, this lineup delivers identity, pacing, and honest value.
Stick around for community shoutouts, new Discord faces, and what we’re playing next, including Final Fantasy Rebirth progress, Sleeping Dogs in the Gen 7 playthrough, and a few hidden gems on deck. If you enjoyed the conversation, download the back catalog, leave a five-star review, and share this episode with …
-
The Poncies 2025 - Game of the year 2025
25 januari 2026 · 2 uur 24 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
The suits were sharp, the jokes were chaotic, and the wings were hot—perfect conditions for the Ponsies, our annual Game of the Year awards engineered by Seb’s “committee” of number-crunchers. We opened the books on four very different gaming diets and found a story that spanned cozy farms, roguelike obsessions, comeback ports, and a JRPG that might define a generation.
Our Switch 2 streak is undeniable, but the data went deeper: indie love runs strong, platform diversity got its due, and yes, we called out retro comfort when it smothered discovery. After tiebreak fireworks, the top ten settled into a shape that actually makes sense: Persona 4 at #10 for its lasting impact, Mafia: The Old Country at #9, and a surprisingly excellent Cyberpunk 2077 port at #8 that finally lets you enjoy the dream without patches. Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar brought a fresh market-day loop at #7, while Witcher 3’s “Switcher 3” mystique refused to die at #6.
Then the momentum hit hard. Pokemon ZA fought its way to #5—underrated, heartfelt, and worth your time. No Man’s Sky reclaimed #4 on the strength of its transformative Corvette update, a masterclass in live-game redemption. Expedition 33 soared to #3 with world-class design and a new bar for JRPGs. Ball XP broke the internet in our little universe at #2—breakout-meets-roguelike with pinball-flavored mid-run strategy and “one more run” magic across platforms. And the Ponsie for Game of the Year? Hades 2. Leaner file size, deeper systems, immaculate performance, and that irresistible loop that defines why we play.
We locked in new rules to keep the Ponsies sharp—no repeat nominations without real evolution and a five-year eligibility window—while spinning forward to 2026: GTA 6 if it lands, Fable as a sleeper, Wolverine as a prestige swing. Looking for a to-play list you’ll actually finish? Start with Ball XP, give Pokemon ZA a fair shake, make time for Expedition 33, and clear a week for Hades 2.
If this rid…
-
We Compare Rebirth’s Open World To Horizon, Xenoblade, And Breath Of The Wild
18 januari 2026 · 2 uur 30 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth grabbed us by the scruff and reminded us how an open world can feel alive without drowning you in chores. We dig into why the new exploration loop works—think the curiosity of Breath of the Wild, the gathering rhythm of Horizon, and a dash of Xenoblade’s scale—then point to the quiet magic of Kalm, a bustling town that feels worth lingering in. Streamlined materia and upgrades reduce menu tax, while crafting makes scavenging meaningful. It’s modern without losing that FF7 heart.
From there, we zoom into small-but-mighty experiences. Cast and Chill is cozy pixel fishing at its best, with a controversial idle mode that prints progress while you’re away. Is it a smart quality-of-life choice or a shortcut that dulls the grind? We weigh both sides. Then it’s retro time: Evercade’s Taito Collection 2 brings back Rastan and friends, proving how licensed, curated collections can preserve feel and friction with save-state respect.
We also get brutally honest about a hyped handheld clone. The screen’s great and Game Boy shines, but performance above SNES gets patchy, audio artifacts crop up, and marketing outpaces reality. If you want Pokémon nostalgia on the go, it’s serviceable; serious retro fans should aim for better hardware or curated platforms.
News highlights deliver whiplash: Sony quietly axing thousands of low-effort shovelware titles (a win for curation and a wake-up call for trophy culture), Yakuza Kiwami 3 remastered with a playable Game Gear lineup that celebrates Sega’s heritage, and widespread GameStop/EB Games closures that make physical browsing even rarer. We talk discoverability, why shelves still matter, and how indie gems get lost in algorithmic noise.
Stick around for what we’re playing next—more Rebirth, Evercade experiments, and a return to Metroid Prime Remastered’s atmospheric corridors. If you enjoy smart takes on game design, storefront ethics, and the joy of finding a world you can’t stop thinking …
-
300 Episodes Of Chaos, Heart, And Games
11 januari 2026 · 2 uur 41 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Three hundred episodes in and we still can’t shut up about games, community, and the wild lore that got us here. We kick off with the triumphant return of OG Tom, celebrate the 300th with heartfelt thanks, and then dive into a stacked “what we’re playing” that spans razor-sharp indies, comfort food cozies, and big-budget nostalgia. Silksong delivers a perfect late-game skill check, Hades 2 nails that 20–30 minute run cadence, and Expedition 33 sparks a real debate on how turn-based combat can stay deliberate while still feeling alive on defense.
We put the Switch 2 under the microscope with a tough Sonic Crossworlds handheld verdict and then vibe out with Cast and Chill, a serene fishing sim whose haptics, lures, and idle mode hide surprising depth. RGT crowns Final Fantasy VII Remake a top ten all-timer and breaks down why its ensemble outshines FF16’s dryness. Seb swings the spotlight to roguelikes and indies—Ball X Pit, Absolum, Demon School, Deck Tamer—arguing that fast, expressive loops and meaningful progression are where modern magic lives.
Then George confesses to a full U-Boat spiral: oxygen, batteries, periscope scans, and the kind of emergent drama only deep sims can tell. We riff on space-game wishes, Starfield mods, and why Outlaws works best as pop-and-sizzle Star Wars. And because 300 should mean more than nostalgia, we read listener memories, reveal our nearly-finished website, tease subscriber goodies, and set sights on 2026’s big bets: Wolverine, Fable, maybe GTA 6.
If you’re here for gaming podcast energy with real community roots—indie gems, Switch 2 impressions, Final Fantasy analysis, roguelike recommendations, and sim storytelling—this is the one to queue up. Tap play, subscribe, and tell a friend about UCP. Then jump into Discord and share your favorite memory or your current game of the year. We’ll see you there.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message…
-
He Wore Speedos, We Wore Nostalgia: The UCP Holiday Special
21 december 2025 · 2 uur 3 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Ever wish a new release felt like the best parts of the 16-bit era without the grind or the guesswork? That’s the spark behind our deep dive into Terminator 2D: No Fate—an affectionate, modern-built throwback that marries beat-em-up grit, run-and-gun pacing, and side-scrolling driving with clever movie nods and genuinely meaningful branching paths. It’s the rare licensed game that rewards replays because choices actually reshape missions, tone, and outcomes. We break down why it works, where it surprises, and how its small details add up to big grins.
From there, we get practical. Retro can look and play beautifully on modern screens with a few smart tweaks: find the 60 Hz options, switch mono to stereo, and hunt for hidden widescreen toggles in PS2-era menus. On Switch Online, Luigi’s Mansion gets a new lease of life by flipping look controls and managing the frame. We share the adapters and small hardware rituals that cut friction—because sometimes a clean contact or a better pad is the difference between shelving a classic and seeing it shine.
News comes with presents: PSVR2’s Aces of Thunder takes flight with HOTAS support and the kind of seated VR that just works; Gears of War E-Day promises a ground-up Unreal Engine 5 prequel that’s a clean entry point for newcomers; and smaller Switch 2 cartridges signal a healthier, more affordable path for mid-size and indie physical releases. All of it feeds into a holiday rotation that swings between PS2 guilty pleasures, The Getaway’s infamous AI, and the evergreen cool of Soul Reaver.
If you want a cozy listen that blends smart recommendations, tech tips that matter, and a few bold takes on where gaming is headed, you’re in the right place. Hit play, then tell us: what’s your festive go-to game and what’s the one retro setup tweak you swear by? Subscribe, share with a friend who loves pixels with purpose, and drop a review to help more curious gamers find the show.
Support the show
Join our fanta…
-
From Switch 2 Shine To PS2 Grit: Hades 2, Red Dead Redemption, And The Getaway Revisited
14 december 2025 · 1 uur 58 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Hades 2 feels like the rare sequel that actually earns its extra systems. We dig into the above world’s health-drain tension, smart spellcrafting, and why a simple fishing rod supports progression without padding the grind. Then we pivot into Red Dead Redemption’s PS5 upgrade and make the case for “gentle touch-ups” over full remasters—60 fps and cleaner presentation that keep the dust, silence, and tone intact. If you just finished Red Dead 2, this is a powerful continuation that respects the original’s shape.
The retro itch takes over when a pristine DualShock 2 turns chaos into control. Scarface suddenly steers straight, The Getaway’s no-HUD vision clicks, and that infamous indicator-based navigation becomes a bold, flawed slice of immersion. We talk how a good controller restores developer intent, and how that changes your read on difficulty, pacing, and fairness. We also revisit Illusion of Time on SNES, using save states to balance adult lives with classic design. It plays like a bridge between Secret of Mana and A Link to the Past, with transformation doors, light upgrades, and dungeons that respect your time.
We round things out with tech talk that actually helps you play. Digital Foundry’s take on Red Dead for Switch 2—DLSS to 1440p docked, mostly 60 fps—shows how smart engineering stretches older worlds, even with minor flicker and shadow quirks. Along the way we tackle licensed curios like the X-Files and LOTR, when graphics analysis enlightens vs distracts, and how preservation can sometimes beat ambition. If you care about game feel, respectful upgrades, and the small fixes that make big differences, you’ll feel right at home.
Enjoyed the ride? Follow, share with a friend who loves retro done right, and drop your hottest “one small tweak that saved a game” tip in a review or on our Discord.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontroll…
-
Solo Save: Games, News, And Q&A
7 december 2025 · 1 uur 19 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
Ever have a week where you just want a straight hit of games, news, and honest opinions without the fluff? That’s the energy today. I kick things off with Hades 2 on Switch 2 and why its small, thoughtful touches—like audio cues that swell into boss fights—make it the perfect half-hour loop when life is busy. The Switch 2 port holds steady in handheld and docked, and those fast runs keep piling up because the friction is basically gone.
From there, we dig into three stories that matter. Tiny Bookshop is set for a physical console release, and its traveling store premise feels tailor-made for cozy, stress-free play with just enough management depth to hook you. Xbox Winter Demo Fest is rolling out early demos—and yes, Contraband Police, Froggy Hate Snow, Crystalla, and a mech-deck roguelike are on my radar. Demos are back in a big way, and transferring progress into full releases makes discovery meaningful again. Then we take a measured six-month check-in with Switch 2: the hardware impresses with a bigger, cleaner screen and a Pro Controller that finally rivals the best, while the software library still needs more true Switch 2 exclusives to define the generation.
The back half gets personal with a packed Q&A. I’m ready to revisit Gran Turismo 7 after Spec 3; that sim-lite feel still nails the balance. We cover disappointments that stung—Grid Legends’ shallow career, Need for Speed Unbound’s grind under a stylish hood, and the heartbreaking promise of Tales of the Shire. I also own my blind spots: Gears of War, classic Final Fantasy, and Castlevania are all on deck. And yes, Lance Vance remains public enemy number one. I close with the origin story: seaside arcades, Operation Wolf on a milk crate, and a Spectrum 128K that turned the living room into a neighborhood hub. That’s why I love portable power, cozy sims, tough roguelikes, and communities that keep curiosity alive.
If this mix of gameplay, news, and community Q&A hits the spot, follow t…
-
Switch 2 unable to outsell PS5 !!?!?
30 november 2025 · 2 uur 4 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
This week George and the infamous RGT get stuck in with your latest weekly dose of the worlds favourite gaming podcast.
They touch on what they’ve been playing with RGT struggling with a burgeoning Hades 2 addiction and George being George and he’s playing a broken simulator from 5 years ago that no one played even then.
The boys bring you the latest news such as Switch 2 going head to head with PS5 , Call of Dury coming to switch and so much more
So sit down tune in and drop out to the best show in gaming
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com
or DM us on instagram or X and we'll send you an invite.
Cheers gamers!
Subscription Tiers
$3
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
$5
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
A single item of yearly limited art merch
$8
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
A single item of yearly limited art merch
Yearly art merch mug
$10
Name read out on every show
Access to unglorious chat section of discord
Quarterly Zoom meet up
A single item of yearly limited art merch
Yearly art merch mug
Yearly art merch t-shirt
Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going.
-
Steam Machine Priced Like A PC? Our Wallets Just Rage Quit
23 november 2025 · 2 uur 14 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A shooter can live or die by how it feels in your hands. That’s where we start: unpacking why Halo’s air control and sticky mid-jump chaos still feel unmatched, while Resistance 2’s heavier, cover-first design delivers a different kind of tension. From checkpoint pain to flow states, we break down how movement, framerate, and responsiveness shape the stories we remember long after credits roll.
Then we jump into Hades 2 on Switch 2, running at a buttery 120 FPS at 1080p. We dig into why roguelikes benefit more from cadence than pixels, how the new gathering and upgrade wrinkles freshen the loop, and when it’s smarter to pick 1080p120 over 4K60. Along the way we revisit Infamous Second Son’s slow-burn unlocks, GTA 4’s moody Liberty City that still feels singular, and Fallout 3’s love-hate dance with VATS, save-crawls, and PS3-era performance quirks that can’t dim sharp storytelling.
We don’t shy away from platform takes. The PS5 Welcome Hub promises animated flair, but cluttered widgets and random screenshots often bury good art direction. UI should amplify anticipation, not drown it. And we tackle Valve’s Steam Machine value case: priced like a comparable PC, potentially less powerful than a PS5, and launching amid AI-driven RAM demand that’s pushing costs north. If it can’t be the cheapest path to your TV or the most powerful box under it, it needs to win on frictionless access to Steam’s ecosystem and a crystal-clear pitch to console-first players.
If you’re here for strong opinions rooted in hands-on play and a healthy dose of gaming nostalgia, you’re in the right place. Stick around for community updates, a big push for our new retro show Flashback, and plenty of practical insights on what to play next and why. Enjoy the ride, then help us grow: follow, subscribe, drop a review, and share this episode with a friend who loves games as much as you do.
Support the show
Join our fantastic discord
https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG
If link has expi…
-
Games Were Better When They Were Bold
16 november 2025 · 2 uur 14 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
What if the best gaming experiences aren’t the biggest, but the most focused? We kick off with Resistance 2 and talk through how creepier enemies, smarter encounters, and a tighter campaign deliver more satisfaction than bloated epics. It’s a reminder that balance matters, and 12–15 hour games still hit a sweet spot when your schedule doesn’t.
That idea comes alive when we return to Liberty City. Replaying Grand Theft Auto IV feels like opening a time capsule and finding it sharper than you remember. We compare its mood, story, and grounded city to GTA V’s technical fireworks and multi-protagonist ambition. IV still stands tall: cab rides, heat haze, and side characters that linger. V dazzles, but can feel like a bridge to online systems. When art direction and cohesive narrative lead, the experience endures.
We also dig into the magic of quick-run design with Ball X Pit on Switch: a roguelike that fuses twin-stick control, breakout chaos, and a hub-world that’s a game of its own. Seven-minute sessions add up, choices evolve, and progress feels constant—perfect for real life. From there, we zoom out to the industry: a rumor about Sony scaling back PC ports, the arrival of the Steam Machine, and whether a Series S–ish box at a friendly price is a smart way to bring console players into the Steam library. Great for indies and AA hits? Probably. Future-proof for the next wave of blockbusters? That’s trickier.
Finally, a small win sparks a bigger wish. Red Dead Redemption’s free upgrade on Switch 2 (and other platforms) is welcome, but it raises the question: where is the GTA IV remaster? With its enduring reputation and complete editions waiting in the wings, it feels like the perfect bridge to GTA 6. Until then, we’re choosing escapism over exhaustion—games that respect our time, stories that stick, and worlds that feel crafted rather than monetized.
If this resonates, tap follow, share with a friend who loves thoughtful game talk, and drop a re…
-
Pokemon Legends Reimagined, Devolver’s Indie Rush, And The PS Portal’s Big Swing
9 november 2025 · 1 uur 38 min
Send us Fan Mail Lees meer
A real-time Pokémon that actually feels dangerous, a breakout-bullet-hell roguelike we can’t put down, and a PlayStation handheld that just became useful overnight—this week goes hard on design, value, and where gaming is headed next. We start with Pokémon Legends Z-A, which swaps turn-based comfort for dodge-rolls, boss-scale Mega encounters, and a day-night cadence that pushes exploration and risk. The world still shows its Switch 1 seams, but the loop is tight, the quests stack well, and a mid-story series callback had us grinning. Verdict: gameplay rescues the tech, and that’s enough to keep us hooked.
Then we gush about an indie masterclass from Devolver: a roguelike that fuses breakout, bullet hell, and twin-stick control into a frictionless loop. Runs feed a cozy town meta, fusions snap into place, and every choice has bite. It’s the kind of design that turns “one more run” into three hours. We also flag Megabonk’s 3D survivor-like spin with constant mini-bosses and objective-led runs—proof that the genre still has fresh lanes.
On the platform front, Sony’s PS Portal just unlocked cloud streaming for over 2,800 PS5 games via PS Plus Premium, no console required. Add credible signs of a PlayStation-to-PC cross-buy badge and a sharper Portal UI, and you can see the strategy: reduce friction, expand ownership, and make handheld play feel native again. We weigh the value math, the DualSense edge, and how this compares to Steam Deck and Switch 2.
Not all progress feels cozy. Square Enix plans to automate up to 70% of QA and debugging with generative AI by 2027. We unpack the trade-offs: faster pipelines, cleaner launches, and the real risk of job displacement and scope bloat if studios lean too hard. The bottom line: use AI for the grind, invest humans in taste, UX, and finish.
And yes, we talk about the chaotic triumph of Amazing Frog topping Xbox’s paid charts. Call it the zeitgeist effect: streamer-friendly mayhem, low friction, and a rem…