<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/276201/open_sms">Send a text</a>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 &amp; 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, industry strategy, and the sweet spot between nostalgia and value, this one’s for you. Tap play, then tell us: is $19.99 fair for FireRed/LeafGreen, and what would make Starfield win you back? Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a quick review—it helps more curious gamers find us.<a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/276201/support">Support the show</a>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&apos;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.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/276201/open_sms"&gt;Send a text&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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 &amp;amp; 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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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?&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;If you’re into smart game design, industry strategy, and the sweet spot between nostalgia and value, this one’s for you. Tap play, then tell us: is $19.99 fair for FireRed/LeafGreen, and what would make Starfield win you back?&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a quick review—it helps more curious gamers find us.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/276201/support"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Join our fantastic discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;or DM us on instagram or X and we&amp;apos;ll send you an invite.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Cheers gamers!&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Subscription Tiers&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$3&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$5&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$8&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch mug&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$10 &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch mug&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch t-shirt&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send a text 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 i...

A Studio Shuts, A Space RPG Pivots, And A Cult Golf RPG Steals The Show

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/276201/open_sms">Send a text</a>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. We keep it clear and fast: jump to the games worth your time, skip the filler, and leave with a short list you’ll actually play. If this showcase proved anything, it’s that pacing and variety win—especially when the hardware features are used well. Enjoy the breakdown, share with a friend who missed the stream, and if you’re vibing with the show, hit subscribe and drop a quick review. It helps more than you think.<a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/276201/support">Support the show</a>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&apos;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.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/276201/open_sms"&gt;Send a text&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;We keep it clear and fast: jump to the games worth your time, skip the filler, and leave with a short list you’ll actually play. If this showcase proved anything, it’s that pacing and variety win—especially when the hardware features are used well. Enjoy the breakdown, share with a friend who missed the stream, and if you’re vibing with the show, hit subscribe and drop a quick review. It helps more than you think.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/276201/support"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Join our fantastic discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;or DM us on instagram or X and we&amp;apos;ll send you an invite.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Cheers gamers!&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Subscription Tiers&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$3&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$5&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$8&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch mug&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$10 &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch mug&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch t-shirt&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send a text 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 rema...

PlayStation State Of Play: Hits, Surprises, And What’s Worth Your Time

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/276201/open_sms">Send a text</a>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, clean pacing, and games that respect your time—whether that’s a slick brawler, a scrappy handheld ARPG, or a thoughtful controller redesign—you’ll feel right at home. If you enjoyed this, follow, share with a friend, and drop a review to help more curious gamers find us. What “underdog” game would you put back in the spotlight?<a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/276201/support">Support the show</a>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&apos;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.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/276201/open_sms"&gt;Send a text&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;Stick around for our new weekly release cadence, community playthrough invites, and what we’re playing next. If you care about tight mechanics, clean pacing, and games that respect your time—whether that’s a slick brawler, a scrappy handheld ARPG, or a thoughtful controller redesign—you’ll feel right at home. If you enjoyed this, follow, share with a friend, and drop a review to help more curious gamers find us. What “underdog” game would you put back in the spotlight?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/276201/support"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Join our fantastic discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;or DM us on instagram or X and we&amp;apos;ll send you an invite.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Cheers gamers!&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Subscription Tiers&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$3&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$5&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$8&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch mug&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$10 &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch mug&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch t-shirt&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send a text 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 approa...

Why GTA Clones Still Matter Even When They Don’t Win

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/276201/open_sms">Send a text</a>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 a friend who still thinks value only comes in 100-hour packages. Your turn: short bangers or big epics—what are you playing?<a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/276201/support">Support the show</a>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&apos;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.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/276201/open_sms"&gt;Send a text&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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 a friend who still thinks value only comes in 100-hour packages. Your turn: short bangers or big epics—what are you playing?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/276201/support"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Join our fantastic discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;or DM us on instagram or X and we&amp;apos;ll send you an invite.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Cheers gamers!&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Subscription Tiers&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$3&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$5&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$8&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch mug&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$10 &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch mug&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch t-shirt&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send a text 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 s...

Indie Heat And Final Fantasy Feels

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/276201/open_sms">Send a text</a>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 ride made you laugh, argue, or add a game to your queue, tap follow, share with a friend, and drop your own top three. Which pick would you move up?<a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/276201/support">Support the show</a>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&apos;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.

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/276201/open_sms"&gt;Send a text&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;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.&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;If this ride made you laugh, argue, or add a game to your queue, tap follow, share with a friend, and drop your own top three. Which pick would you move up?&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a rel="payment" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/276201/support"&gt;Support the show&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Join our fantastic discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;https://discord.gg/v7RFSUcG&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;If link has expired then message us at questions@unofficialcontrollerpodcast.com&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;or DM us on instagram or X and we&amp;apos;ll send you an invite.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Cheers gamers!&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Subscription Tiers&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$3&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$5&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$8&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch mug&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;$10 &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Name read out on every show&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Access to unglorious chat section of discord&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Quarterly Zoom meet up&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;A single item of yearly limited art merch&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch mug&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Yearly art merch t-shirt&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Thanks to all who subscribe, it means the world to us and really helps us keep the shows going. &lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Send a text 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...

The Poncies 2025 - Game of the year 2025

Your number one weekly gaming podcast for all the latest Sony Playstation , Microsoft Xbox , Nintendo Switch and PC News. Retrospectives , Readers Mail and Industry Chat.

Unofficial Controller Podcast

Details

Recent Episodes