38 avsnitt • Längd: 65 min • Veckovis: Fredag
Based on the Mighty Diamonds Games Industry Executive Summary Newsletter. This podcast is the video and audio version of the weekly news, where Casey Al-Kaisy, Manu Rosier and Dave Thier go a bit deeper and give context to the articles and links. Subscribe to get full access to the podcast, newsletter and GIES archive. mighty.diamonds
The podcast Games Industry Executive Summary is created by Mighty Diamonds. The podcast and the artwork on this page are embedded on this page using the public podcast feed (RSS).
Is the gaming industry undergoing a global shift? In this episode, we dive into the chaos and change sweeping across gaming in 2025. From the uncertain future of extraction shooters like Marathon and DMZ, to the surprising PS5 price hikes that have players buzzing, we're unpacking it all.
Meanwhile, Korean indie developers are stepping into the spotlight — underfunded, overlooked, but incredibly talented. Could they be the future of innovation in games? And are big publishers like Sony and Nintendo missing key trends?
We talk about business models, genre fatigue, pricing wars, and AI's rising influence on development. This is your weekly deep dive into the gaming industry’s identity crisis, from four perspectives around the world.
Timestamps:
00:00 Nintendo Returns: Big News or More Silence?
06:21 Why Is the PS5 Getting More Expensive?
21:15 PlayStation Plus: Value or Just Another Bill?
25:26 Marathon and the Extraction Shooter Overload
31:15 Are Extraction Shooters Already Dying?
36:36 Can Football Games Be Fun Again?
43:43 Mafia Franchise Comeback: Too Late or Perfect Timing?
45:59 Why Strategy Games Are Making a Big Return
48:26 Hollywood’s Obsession with Video Games
55:47 Gaming and Film: The Next Power Combo?
58:38 What’s Next for Game Platforms in 2025?
59:58 Is the Economy Killing Gaming’s Growth?
1:03:55 RPG Remakes: Nostalgia or Real Innovation?
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Casey Al-Kaisy: linkedin.com/in/caseyalkaisy
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Manu Rosier: linkedin.com/in/emmanuelrosier
Patrick Rose: linkedin.com/in/patrickroseio/
Nintendo's upcoming Switch 2 is already facing major backlash and the console hasn’t even launched yet. From shocking price tags to confusing hardware choices, fans are asking: Is Nintendo making its biggest mistake yet?In this episode, we break down:- Why some gamers may have to pay over $1,000 just to play- The controversy around “empty” cartridges and subscription-only features- Nintendo’s strange pricing strategy in global markets- Whether exclusives like Mario Kart World can save the console- And how this impacts the ongoing Console War between Nintendo, Xbox, and PlayStationHave your thoughts changed on the Switch 2? Let us know in the comments, is it still a day-one buy for you?Plus: We also dive into the breakout indie hit Blueprints, the rise of social co-op games like Dead Rails, and what the Minecraft Movie teaches us about fandom in 2025.Timestamps:00:00 Intro & Gaming Trends Overview 02:07 Xbox’s Past vs Today’s Media Landscape 04:52 Switch 2 Pricing & Adoption Worries 10:02 Nintendo’s Game Card Confusion Explained 15:06 Do Physical Games Still Matter in 2025? 19:06 How Global Economics Impacts Console Launches 21:07 Console Supply Chains & Economic Uncertainty 30:29 Minecraft Movie: Fandom or Flop? 35:05 Nintendo & Polworld: Legal Fallout? 37:06 Hype or Hoax? Game Rumors Breakdown 40:17 Ownership, Shutdowns & the Industry Shift 44:02 Can Crowdfunding Still Save Games? 51:01 Early Access in 2025: Innovation or Illusion?🔗 Connect With Us🌐 Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds: www.mighty.diamonds🎙️ Subscribe to the Gies Podcast wherever you get your podcasts📰 Join the Gies Newsletter on Substack: giesweekly.substack.com📺 Subscribe to Gies on YouTube: youtube.com/@gies👥 Connect with our hosts on LinkedIn:Casey Al-Kaisy: linkedin.com/in/caseyalkaisyDave Thier: linkedin.com/in/david-thier-10167415Manu Rosier: linkedin.com/in/emmanuelrosier
In this special Gies episode, the guys go through the Newzoo April 8th report "The State of PC & Console Gaming in 2025". Focusing on playtime analysis, the impact of cross-media on gaming, player engagement, and the trends in the gaming industry. They explore how players are becoming more selective, the significance of nostalgia in live service games, and the challenges of new game releases in a saturated market.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to the State of Gaming 2025
01:16 Playtime Analysis and Trends
16:24 Impact of Cross-Media on Gaming Engagement
22:38 Understanding Game Selection and Player Behavior
39:45 The Shift in Gaming Economics
43:00 Innovations in Gameplay and Game Design
45:21 Recursive Nostalgia in Live Service Games
56:39 The Reset Approach: Reviving Old Games
01:01:26 Engagement Strategies in Live Service Games
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The Nintendo Switch 2 is here... but is it a true game changer or just a pricey refresh?
In this episode, we break down Nintendo's big reveal: the features, pricing, first-party titles, and hardware design. Our panel dives into what works, what doesn’t, and whether the Switch 2 lives up to the hype.Whether you're a lifelong Nintendo fan or a curious observer, this episode brings thoughtful, in-depth analysis you won’t find anywhere else.
What we cover:
- Who is the Switch 2 really for
- Mario Kart World and its surprising mechanics
- The $450 price tag and what it means for families and core gamers
- Nintendo’s ecosystem strategy and third-party support
- Does it compete with Steam Deck, PS5, or something else entirely
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Overview of Nintendo Switch 2
02:59 Nintendo Switch 2 Features and Performance
06:08 Market Positioning and Pricing Strategy
09:09 Nintendo's Hardware vs. Software Focus
12:01 Consumer Expectations and Game Pricing
14:57 Third-Party Support and Game Library
17:57 Launch Strategy and Market Predictions
24:34 Nintendo's Pricing Controversy
27:07 Innovative Game Concepts and Hardware Demos
29:09 Excitement for Mario Kart World
39:30 Game Sharing Features and Third-Party Reactions
40:48 Anticipation for Donkey Kong Bananza
44:09 Exploring From Software's New Direction
45:59 Understanding PvPvE Mechanics
46:51 Visual Design and Gameplay Expectations
49:40 The Impact of Exclusive Titles on Platforms
50:11 Roblox's New Advertising Strategy
54:51 Live Service Games and Player Retention
01:01:10 Ubisoft's Strategic Moves and Market Implications
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In this episode, Casey Al-Kaisy and Manu Rosier discuss various topics in the gaming industry, including the blending of entertainment brands, the anticipated launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, the success of Assassin's Creed Shadows, and the implications of LEGO collaborations. They also explore emerging games, market dynamics, and the potential integration of Xbox and Steam, while considering the future of gaming platforms and business models. In this conversation, Casey Al-Kaisy and Manu Rosier delve into various topics surrounding the gaming industry, including the launch strategies of new games, the anticipation for Hollow Knight: Silksong, and the controversy surrounding Denuvo's anti-piracy measures. They discuss innovative marketing strategies, the legacy of Metal Gear Solid, and the future of CD Projekt's IPs. The impact of GTA 6 on game releases is also explored, along with the creative origins of the Nemesis system in Shadow of Mordor. The irony of Palworld's potential release on Nintendo Switch amidst ongoing legal issues with Nintendo is highlighted, as well as the influence of Saudi investments in gaming IPs.
Timestamps:
00:00 Exploring Reddit and Community Engagement
03:13 The Rise of Indie Games and Player Sentiment
06:14 Pokemon LEGO and Gaming Collaborations
09:06 Game Releases and Market Trends
12:22 The Impact of Anti-Piracy Measures
15:10 The Evolution of Cross-Platform Play
18:08 Innovative Marketing Strategies in Gaming
21:10 The Role of Easter Eggs in Modern Gaming
34:36 Connecting with Fans: The Importance of Authenticity
36:12 Nostalgia and Legacy: The Metal Gear Solid Phenomenon
38:12 Kojima's Influence: The Future of Metal Gear and Death Stranding
40:12 The Art of Translation: Crafting Engaging Narratives
42:21 Gameplay Mechanics: Balancing Story and Fun
45:41 The Role of Voice Acting in Game Immersion
46:55 Navigating Industry Trends: Game Releases and Market Strategy
57:22 Innovative Mechanics: The Nemesis System and Player Engagement
01:01:21 Irony in Game Development: Legal Battles and Business Decisions
01:02:57 The Impact of IP Ownership: Merging Worlds in Gaming
01:04:15 The Intersection of Sports and Gaming
01:07:09 Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Strategy
01:10:11 Assassin's Creed Shadows Performance
01:13:08 Upcoming Game Releases and Industry Trends
01:16:21 GTA VI Expectations and Console Bundles
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In this episode, the hosts discuss various trends in the gaming industry, including the dominance of older games, the future of single-player games, and the impact of live service titles. They also delve into the financial strategies of major companies like Ubisoft and PlayStation, the success of co-op games like Split Fiction, and the challenges faced by franchises like Saints Row and Life is Strange. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of gaming, with a focus on player preferences and market dynamics.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Springtime Vibes
03:10 Lego Creations and F1 Cars
05:32 Monthly Active Users vs Revenue Analysis
07:49 PC Gamers and Older Games
10:55 Trends in Game Purchases and Player Behavior
13:53 The Future of Game Development
16:56 Assassin's Creed and Ubisoft's Financial Moves
19:46 Exploring Ubisoft's Valuable IPs
21:39 PlayStation's New Studio: Dark Outlaw Games
23:53 The Shutdown of Star Wars Hunters
25:25 Life is Strange: Sales and Expectations
27:49 Disco Elysium's Mobile Port and TikTok Strategy
30:05 The Future of Single Player Games
33:53 Monster Hunter's PC Sales and Console Dominance
38:29 The Sims vs. In Zui: A New Life Simulator
42:48 The Future of Sims and Multiplayer Interactions
43:54 Ubisoft's Anti-Harassment Measures and Community Response
47:10 The Financial Viability of Game Development
50:35 Rumors of PlayStation and Starfield Launch
53:25 Marvel Gaming Universe: Plans and Speculations
58:10 Success of Hazelight Studio's Split Fiction
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In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics in the gaming industry, including personal gaming experiences, the impact of Monster Hunter on players, trends in game development, and the acquisition of Niantic's game division. They also explore Sega's strategic focus on fewer but deeper investments in key franchises, Lego's shift towards in-house game development, and the implications of microtransactions in upcoming games like EA's Skate. The conversation touches on the evolving landscape of gaming, including Riot Games' efforts to engage new players and the success of horror games like Outlast Trials.Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Surprises
03:00 Gaming Experiences and Technical Issues
05:58 Exploring New Games and Recommendations
09:02 Monster Hunter Insights and Gameplay
12:00 Game Releases and Market Trends
15:10 Emerging Games and Future Prospects
19:07 Niantic's Strategic Shift: Selling Pokemon Go Division
25:08 Steam's Chinese User Surge
31:29 Ori Studio Goes Independent
33:45 Lego's In-House Game Development
36:14 LEGO and Video Games: A Unique Challenge
37:34 Microtransactions in Gaming: A Double-Edged Sword
39:09 Sega's Strategic Shift: Fewer Games, Deeper Investments
40:53 Netflix's Gaming Ambitions: A Cautionary Tale
43:55 Riot Games: Adapting to a New Generation of Players
46:57 The Impact of Food in Gaming: A Delicious Trend
49:31 Xbox's Hardware Rumors: The Future of Gaming Devices
51:39 Game Pass vs. PlayStation Essentials: A Comparative Analysis
53:11 Rumors of Cancellations: The Uncertain Future of Game Development
54:28 The Outlast Trials: Success in the Horror Genre
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In this episode, the hosts discuss the latest news in the gaming industry, including the record-breaking success of Monster Hunter, EA's strategic shift towards modding, and the return of Acclaim focusing on indie studios. They also touch on Ubisoft's reboot of the Far Cry extraction shooter, the rise of cozy games in MMO design, and Rockstar's acquisition of the developer behind the GTA Trilogy. Additionally, Tencent's increased stake in From Software and the success of the Pokemon Trading Card Game are highlighted, along with Steam's impressive growth.
Timestamps:
00:00 Welcome Back and Game Highlights
01:26 Monster Hunter's Record-Breaking Success
06:32 Gameplay Mechanics and User Experience
12:13 EA's Strategic Shift with Modding Community
15:04 Fragpunk's Delayed Launch and Market Positioning
23:33 Acclaim's Return and Focus on Indie Studios
26:20 Far Cry's New Direction in Extraction Shooters
28:20 Reviving Classic IPs: The Case of Marathon
31:50 The Rise of Free-to-Play in VR Gaming
33:22 Cozy Games and Their Impact on Modern MMOs
39:14 Acquisitions and Industry Dynamics: The Case of From Software
44:31 The Success of the Pokémon Trading Card Game
48:11 Steam's Growth and the Future of Gaming Platforms
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In this episode of the Games Industry Executive Summary, Casey Al-Kaisy and Patrick Rose discuss various topics impacting the gaming industry, including the success of the Steam Deck in handheld gaming, the innovative Nemesis system from Monolith Productions, and the resurgence of Konami with the Silent Hill franchise. They also explore the challenges faced by Fable, the implications of tariffs on Sony's supply chain, and the trends in racing games. The conversation touches on Obsidian's growth, the layoffs at Striking Distance Studios, and the strategic shifts at NetEase. Finally, they highlight the potential of Southeast Asian game development and the global appeal of Black Myth: Wukong.Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Context
01:58 The Rise of Handheld Gaming
05:48 The Nemesis System and Narrative Design
10:02 The Future of Monolith Productions
10:49 Konami's Comeback and Legacy
15:07 Fable's Anticipation and Expectations
18:59 Tariffs and the Digital Trade Landscape
24:05 Nostalgia for Racing Games
28:25 The Evolution of Game Studios
30:38 The Impact of Studio Size on Game Quality
34:42 The Changing Landscape of Game Development
38:28 The Future of Chinese Game Development
42:53 Southeast Asia's Growing Game Industry
45:08 Reaching the Chinese Gaming Market
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In this episode, Casey Al-Kaisy and Manu Rosier discuss various topics in the gaming industry, including the intersection of LEGO and video games, recent layoffs in the industry, Rockstar's ambitions in the metaverse, the evolution of live service games, and the success of PlayStation. They also touch on the challenges faced by companies like Embracer and Starbreeze, the rise of PC gaming in Japan, and the future of AA games. The conversation highlights the dynamic nature of the gaming industry and the importance of adapting to changing market conditions.Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and LEGO Passion
03:04 The Impact of LEGO's Video Game Collaborations
05:51 Layoffs in the Gaming Industry: A Case Study
08:59 Will GTA 6 Be the First Real Metaverse?
11:48 Revamping Live Service Games: The Case of Rainbow Six Siege
14:53 PlayStation's Market Performance
18:09 Monster Hunter's Success and Mobile Gaming Trends
20:54 Nexon's Resilience in the Gaming Market
23:52 The Growing Importance of PC Gaming in Japan
26:47 Windows 10's Discontinuation and Its Implications
30:38 Upgrading Gaming Hardware
36:08 From Software's Publishing History
38:48 Insights from Retired Executives
40:12 Steam's Dominance in the Market
41:55 Nostalgia for Extreme Sports Games
44:16 Embracer's Sales Performance
46:22 Pacific Drive's Unique Concept
48:02 Ubisoft's Revenue Decline
49:39 Starbreeze's Struggles with Payday 3
53:41 Embracer's Financial Challenges
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In this episode of the Game Industry Executive Summary, hosts Casey Al-Kaisy, Dave Thier, and Manu Rosier discuss the latest trends and news in the gaming industry. They emphasize the importance of concise gaming news, share their gaming experiences, and express excitement for upcoming titles like Elden Ring. The conversation also covers Supercell's performance, the longevity of live service games, and highlights from PlayStation's February 2025 State of Play. In this segment, the conversation delves into various themes surrounding game development, inspirations from existing titles, the role of publishers, and the implications of recent events in the gaming industry. The hosts discuss the influences of popular games on new releases, the significance of publishers like IOI in shaping the future of game studios, and the excitement surrounding upcoming titles such as Monster Hunter. They also address the recent PlayStation outage and its impact on gamers, as well as the latest developments in the PUBG franchise and tactical shooters. In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics in the gaming industry, including the resilience of online games, Valve's ban on ad-requiring games, the cancellation of Football Manager 25, and the ongoing debate about subscription models in gaming. They also speculate on the anticipated release of GTA 6, PlayStation's efforts to clean up their store, and the introduction of cross-buy features. The conversation touches on Unity's layoffs, the future of Crytek, and rumors surrounding Resident Evil 5 and Rainbow Six Siege 2. Additionally, they analyze Roblox's user decline and Paradox Interactive's revenue challenges, concluding with a discussion on the success of Farming Simulator.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Game Industry Executive Summary
05:04 Game Recommendations and Trends
12:08 Excitement for Elden Ring and Co-op Play
16:44 Supercell's Performance and Game Longevity
24:14 PlayStation's February 2025 State of Play Highlights
30:21 Exploring Game Inspirations and Influences
33:07 The Role of Publishers in Game Development
36:31 The Future of Game Studios and Franchises
39:00 Anticipating Upcoming Releases: Monster Hunter and More
44:14 PlayStation Outage: Implications for Gamers
46:57 New Developments in PUBG and Tactical Shooters
51:18 The Resilience of Online Games
52:49 Valve's Stance on In-Game Advertisements
53:59 The Cancellation of Football Manager 25
55:52 The Subscription Model Debate in Gaming
56:55 GTA 6 Release Speculations
59:58 PlayStation's Cleanup of the Store
01:02:02 Cross-Buy Features in Gaming
01:03:58 Unity's Layoffs and Industry Impact
01:08:01 Crisis Four and the Future of Crytek
01:08:58 Rumors of Resident Evil 5 and Rainbow Six Siege 2
01:11:57 Roblox's User Decline and Revenue Impact
01:13:03 Paradox Interactive's Revenue Challenges
01:15:58 Farming Simulator's Success and Market Trends
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In this episode, Casey Al-Kaisy, Dave Thier, and Manu Rosier discuss various topics in the gaming industry, including personal gaming experiences, children's gaming habits, the rise of Chinese game publishers, the stagnation in Western game development, the evolution of console wars, and the monetization of user-generated content in platforms like Roblox. They also touch on EA's plans for the next Battlefield game and the challenges it faces in a competitive market. In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics in the gaming industry, including the importance of gameplay focus and community engagement in game development, the launch of the Video Game History Foundation's digital libraries, and the trends in handheld gaming with the anticipated release of the Switch 2. They also delve into the latest reports on game engines, the challenges of curation in digital stores, and the success of video game movies like Sonic and Detective Pikachu. Additionally, they analyze sales trends for new releases, speculate on Ubisoft's future, and review Konami's financial performance. The conversation wraps up with insights on the success of Black Myth Wukong and Dragon Ball Sparkling Zero, as well as the reception of Batman Arkham Shadow in the VR market.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
03:04 Gaming Experiences and Insights
06:01 Children's Gaming Behavior and Trends
09:01 The Future of Gaming: Trends and Predictions
12:08 The Changing Landscape of Game Development
15:12 Console Wars: A New Era
17:51 The Evolution of Game Marketing and Monetization
30:18 Pricing Strategies for the New Switch
34:21 Market Dynamics and Competition in Gaming
38:30 EA's Battlefield Release Strategy
47:17 Video Game History Foundation and Digital Archives
52:40 The Future of Handheld Gaming
55:08 The State of Premium Games on Switch
56:05 Insights from the Big Game Engines Report
58:41 The Challenge of E-Shop Curation
01:02:06 Trends in Video Game Movies
01:06:08 Sales Trends and Market Analysis
01:11:46 Konami's Financial Performance and Future
01:14:06 The Success of Black Myth Wukong
01:17:46 The Future of VR Technology
01:22:12 Gies Intro.mp4
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Hogwarts Legacy is getting official mod support, and PlayStation games on PC will offer new in-game incentives. Meanwhile, The Sims 1 & 2 are making a comeback, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth hits a new Steam peak, and Xbox's Developer Direct reveals what's next.
Layoffs continue as Phoenix Labs, Fast Travel Games, and Ubisoft cut staff, while BioWare shifts focus away from Mass Effect 5. In numbers, Silent Hill 2 remake surpasses 2M sales, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle hits 4M players, and Apex Legends loses 70% of its Steam audience.
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Sony cancels live-service games from Bluepoint and Bend Studio, while EA lowers Q3 guidance after underwhelming sales. Nintendo’s stock drops post-Switch 2 reveal due to missing key details. GDC's survey shows 80% of developers now focused on PC, with 1/3 working on live-service games.
Elsewhere, Marvel Snap seeks a new publisher, Ted Price retires from Insomniac, and Skyrim climbs Steam charts during a 90% off sale. Rumors hint at a surviving Horizon MMO, while Hollow Knight: Silksong assures fans it’s real. Balatro shines with 5 million copies sold in a year.
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In this episode, we discuss the official reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2, reflecting on its potential impact on the gaming world. We review 2024's biggest gaming moments and trends, including the long-awaited Skate playtesting, the upcoming Until Dawn film adaptation, and delays for Assassin's Creed Shadows. We dive into the impact of AI in gaming, the rising costs of game development, and the surprising growth of OLED PC monitors, now making up 22% of the market. Rumors swirl around the Switch 2, potentially bringing two major Xbox games, including Halo. Plus, Bloodborne's lack of a remaster, and major milestones such as Hitman: World of Assassination reaching 75 million players and Pokémon TCG Pocket grossing $400 million in 10 weeks.
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In this episode, we cover Nvidia's reveal of the GeForce RTX 50-series Blackwell GPUs, starting at $549, and the sharp decline in Overwatch 2 Twitch viewership as Marvel Rivals rises. We discuss analysts' predictions for 2025, including the Switch 2, GTA 6, and AI's role in game development. SteamOS expands to non-Steam Deck handhelds, and Microsoft plans to merge Xbox and Windows experiences for handheld devices. SNK opens a new studio for fighting games, while Sony develops Horizon Zero Dawn and Helldivers 2 movies. We also explore Diablo 4's success compared to Concord and Suicide Squad, and industry shifts at Cloud Imperium Games and Bungie. Lastly, we touch on the gentrification of video game history, Half-Life 3 rumors, and record-breaking game releases in China and on Steam in 2024.
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In this episode, we dive into Path of Exile II's impressive early access success, reaching over 500,000 concurrent players on Steam. We discuss the launch of Fortnite’s 5v5 Ballistic mode and the fallout from Suicide Squad. Amid Nintendo’s legal battles, Palworld drops its Pokéball-style mechanic, while Call of Duty fans express frustration over the 'AI Slop' controversy surrounding Black Ops 6’s Zombie Santa loading screen. We also cover Marvel Rivals, GTA 6's 2025 release reshaping launch strategies, and rumors of a potential Steam Machines revival.
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In this episode, we explore Fortnite's record-breaking player numbers and a report revealing gamers now spend more time watching gaming content than playing. We dive into Ubisoft's decision to shutter XDefiant and lay off nearly 300 employees, while Marvel Rivals introduces an anti-FOMO battle pass. Sony greenlights a controversial open-world survival game for PS5, and My First Gran Turismo is set to launch on December 6. We discuss how the Nintendo Switch has reshaped Civilization's development and Shawn Layden's critique of 100-hour games. Plus, Pokémon TCG Pocket surpasses $200 million in revenue. Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
In this episode, we discuss Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 smashing records with the biggest launch month in franchise history and Balatro dethroning Minecraft on mobile charts. We cover the cancellation of Sniper Elite’s battle royale, the closure of Casey Hudson’s studio Humanoid Origin, and FIFA Rivals, a new mobile game from Mythical Games and FIFA. Plus, we dive into Cyberpunk 2077’s 30 million sales milestone, Fallout 76 reaching 21 million players, and the PS2 surpassing 160 million units sold. Don’t miss hot trends like No Man’s Sky hitting “Very Positive” reviews on Steam after eight years, concerns over Unreal Engine 5, and Sony’s work on a portable PS5.
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In this episode, we dive into Farming Simulator 25’s massive 2 million sales in a week and Fortnite expanding its Crew subscription alongside a permanent OG Mode with its own battle pass. We also cover reports of F1 Manager 2025’s cancellation, Sony’s potential acquisition of a media giant tied to Elden Ring, and Battlefield 6 undergoing its largest playtests ever. Plus, a look at Starfield hitting 15 million players, Death Stranding reaching 19 million, and the rapid success of Pokémon TCG Pocket. Don’t miss insights into industry trends, from Half-Life 2’s pivotal role in gaming history to the debate over The Game Awards timing. Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
In this episode, we’re unpacking the latest in gaming with Blizzard’s relaunch of WoW: Classic “fresh realms” and Konami’s Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater remake for a new generation. We also cover inZOI’s Early Access launch in March, Sega’s sale of Humankind dev Amplitude, and Kadokawa’s expansion into PC and console publishing. Plus, insights into Warner Bros. doubling down on Batman and Mortal Kombat as MultiVersus falls short, while Sweden’s game industry hits an all-time high in creativity.
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In this episode, we cover Nintendo’s confirmation of backward compatibility for the upcoming Switch 2, Alan Wake 2’s financial update, and Faker leading T1 to a new League of Legends title. We’ll also dive into Pokémon TCG Pocket’s $12 million debut, Atari’s Transport Tycoon acquisition, and Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered’s disappointing launch. Plus, Valorant gains ground in anti-cheat efforts, and we look at the latest rumors of a Fortnite x Super Mario crossover.
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In this episode, we cover the closure of Sony's Concord studio and The Sims 4’s remarkable milestone of gaining 15 million new players over the past year. We discuss Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 setting Game Pass subscription records, Ubisoft’s first blockchain game with pricey NFTs, and Nintendo’s new music streaming app. Also on the agenda: Germany’s gaming start-up grant, an Oregon Trail movie adaptation, and a new Outlast film. Plus, we unpack PS5 sales trends, indie boxing game Undisputed hitting 1 million copies, and the latest in political gaming outreach, including Tim Walz’s Crazy Taxi Twitch stream and Kamala Harris in Fortnite.
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In this episode, we dive into Netflix's shutdown of its AAA “Team Blue” SoCal gaming studio and the surprising resurgence of DayZ and Factorio on Steam’s top charts. We also explore the latest gaming innovations, like playing Teardown in third person and Remedy Entertainment’s first multiplayer game, FBC Firebreak, set for a 2025 release. We'll discuss Arma 4’s 2027 arrival, Tencent's Delta Force: Hawk Ops launching in beta this December, and the cancellation of early access for Assassin's Creed Shadows. Tune in for industry trends, including concerns over a "collapse of creativity" and updates from Epic’s new Fab marketplace. Plus, we’ll cover rumors of a potential MMO on Switch Online and Crow Country's indie success. Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
In this episode, we dive into the news of ReFantazio hitting 1 million copies sold in under a day, while Silent Hill 2 Remake and Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero also break records. We explore Destiny: Rising, the latest mobile RPG shooter set in Bungie’s iconic universe, and look ahead to EA’s plans for open-world gameplay in future EA FC titles. Plus, Oblivion's controversial horse armor DLC reflects on past missteps, Bandai Namco faces cuts, and whispers of a Game Freak hack are circulating. Finally, we celebrate big wins for Resident Evil 4 and It Takes Two, with sales figures that solidify their places in gaming history. Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
In this episode, we explore 343 Industries’ rebranding as Halo Studios and its move to Unreal Engine, along with Epic’s court victory forcing Google to open up Android to third-party stores. We also cover the long-awaited Alien Isolation sequel, Tetris and Clue coming to Fortnite, and the upcoming PC release of Red Dead Redemption. Plus, we dive into trends like Sega’s Shinobi movie announcement and the surprise success of Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero. Tune in for rumors of an Assassin's Creed Black Flag remake and insights into Detroit: Become Human’s 10 million sales milestone. Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
In this episode, Ubisoft’s CEO addresses the challenge of meeting players' high expectations following Star Wars Outlaws, while Epic’s Tim Sweeney discusses the generational shift in gaming. We also cover Epic lowering Unreal Engine royalty fees, Krafton’s new Palworld mobile game, and the continued dominance of GTA 5 in the charts. Plus, we dive into Disney’s Fortnite deal, Devolver Digital's work on licensed games, and the latest gaming trends. Tune in for rumors about Horizon Online and a breakdown of the numbers behind Football Manager 24’s record-breaking success. Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
In this episode, the guys dive into the delayed release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, they also get to discuss the controversial decision to require PSN login for Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered PC, and the highly anticipated announcement of Ghost of Tsushima’s sequel.
Other major news includes the remastered release of Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver, and NBA 2K25’s removal of VC packs in South Korea due to new regulations. DON’T NOD is reassessing its future after underwhelming sales of Jusant and Banishers.
The guys go on a rant discussing towers in open worlds games and Listeners will also hear about Dead by Daylight developer Behaviour Interactive’s new partnership with the creators of Darkest Dungeon, the identity crisis facing the Final Fantasy franchise, and mixed Steam reviews for God of War Ragnarök due to its PSN login requirement.
Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
In this episode, the guys explore the latest in gaming news, beginning with Palworld's success as a potential model for indie developers, despite the developer facing a lawsuit from Nintendo for patent infringement. They also cover Grand Theft Auto V's new anti-cheat system that has disrupted online play on Steam Deck, and EA's decision to update the Sims franchise with multiplayer, ending speculation about Sims 5.
The discussion continues with Skate set to launch in early access in 2025, Unity dropping its unpopular per-install fee, and Sony reportedly choosing AMD over Intel for the PS6.
The episode wraps up with rumors of Red Dead Redemption 1 finally arriving on PC, and analysis of Xbox Series X/S sales falling short of the PS5, as experts predict strong sales for the upcoming PS5 Pro.
Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
The gang is back and in this episode Casey, Manu and Dave get to discuss Astro Bot finally being PlayStation's mascot, exploring its potential influence on the video game industry. They also break down the internet’s reaction to the PS5 Pro’s hefty $700 price tag.
They dive into Roblox’s new AI tool for generating 3D game worlds from text and its plan to allow developers to sell premium titles. Plus, they cover the latest Call of Duty and Destiny 2 updates, including Destiny's shift towards Metroidvania and roguelike elements. The team also discusses Ubisoft's decision to add offline modes to The Crew following an EU consumer rights campaign.
Some insights on Ubisoft’s investor pressure to go private, shifting AMD strategies, and reactions to the first Minecraft Movie trailer. Lastly, layoffs at Xbox and Embracer Group, and rumors swirling around a potential GTA 6 delay.
Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
This week, Casey and Manu delve into Sony’s decision to take Concord offline, ceasing sales and issuing refunds. They also explore reports that Tencent and NetEase are scaling back investments in Japanese game studios.
The discussion continues with a look at Ubisoft’s muted reception for Star Wars Outlaws, challenges faced by Dune: Awakening on Xbox Series S, and the indefinite delay of the Enotria on Xbox. Additionally, Hideo Kojima reflects on the 9th anniversary of Metal Gear Solid 5, and Capcom’s mobile Resident Evil games take another hit.
The guys also analyze Roblox's crazy size, the rise of non-English languages on Steam, and the potential for game price hikes with the upcoming GTA 6.
Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
Join Casey, Manu and Dave as they dive into the controversy over AI in gaming, with God of War star Christopher Judge criticizing an Amazon exec’s claim that AI doesn’t impact acting jobs in games. They also cover Ubisoft’s response to Star Wars Outlaws players who lost early-access progress.
New updates like Balatro’s collaboration featuring popular games, Foamstars going free-to-play, and the recent PS5 price hike in Japan. Additionally, the return of MySims on the Switch is making headlines.
Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
The gang is back together, join us as we discuss Black Myth: Wukong’s incredible launch, surpassing Cyberpunk 2077 to become the most-played single-player game on Steam, and highlight key announcements from Gamescom Opening Night Live 2024.
We’ll also cover the final update for Dead Cells, the delay of Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2 to 2025, and the backlash against Hunt: Showdown's latest update. Plus, we explore Tim Sweeney's thoughts on Epic's exclusivity deals, the state of indie publishing, and why Xbox’s Phil Spencer is launching Indiana Jones and the Great Circle on PS5.
Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
In this episode, we dive into the latest gaming news and trends. Casey is joined by Manu this week to explore why the Borderlands movie could be 2024's biggest box office flop despite the success of other video game adaptations. We'll discuss Steam's new 'Trending Free' tab in response to concerns about free demos, and highlight the latest Five Nights at Freddy's game, which is being hailed as the best in the series.
We'll also cover Fallout London developers planning to launch their own indie games studio, the ambitious new features in Flight Simulator 2024, and Tango Gameworks' acquisition by Krafton Inc. Plus, we'll touch on the enduring legacy of P.T., rumors of Black Ops 6 cutscenes leaking, and impressive numbers from Valve's unannounced game Deadlock.
Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
In this episode, Casey & Manu cover the latest in gaming news, starting with Fortnite ending exclusivity for future Battle Pass content and the continued stories of Game Informer's closure. We’ll discuss Humble Games' recent struggles, Microsoft’s new AI upscaler, and the formation of a new team at Blizzard focused on smaller games. We also dive into the launch of Pac-Man Simulator on Roblox and the open beta for Valorant on consoles. Finally, we’ll touch on rumors about a possible Yakuza Wars game, a PC release for Final Fantasy 16, and industry numbers, including Sony's Q1 performance and Sega's acquisition of Stakelogic.
Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
In this episode, Patrick Rose joins us in providing the news and biggest stories of the week as both Manu and Dave are OOO. We'll discuss Activision Blizzard boosting Xbox's earnings despite hardware declines and Bungie's layoff of 17% of its workforce. We’ll cover the Steam's demo overhaul, and EA’s ambitious new Battlefield project. Plus, we'll talk about the Olympics dropping the Mario & Sonic series for NFTs and esports, the Xbox 360 store shutdown. Lastly, we'll touch on potential Twitch layoffs, and hints at a Starfield expansion. Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
In this episode, we bring you the games industry news and provide context to the biggest stories. We'll dive into EA Sports' College Football 25's impressive launch and Disney's struggle as kids prefer YouTube over Disney+. We'll discuss Respawn's changes to the Apex Legends Battle Pass (again), Concord's player drop during its second free weekend on PS5. We’ll also cover Warner Bros. Games acquiring Player First Games, Humble Games restructuring, and industry trends like key hires at Hasbro and Meta's VR division woes.
Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
In this episode, we bring you the games industry news and provide context to the biggest stories. We'll discuss Apple's Vision Pro headsets reaching Europe and whether VR will ever go mainstream. We'll look at leaked Valve data, revealing its smaller size compared to other developers. We also cover the global gaming revenue projections, and how Baldur's Gate 3's numerous awards have impacted development. Join us as we dive into these stories and more!
Learn more about the Mighty Diamonds at Mighty.Diamonds and subscribe to the Games Industry Executive Summary at mightydiamonds.substack.com
En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.