This week, Niki returns after a taxing move to talking to Lotus and John about a game they played called Life's Eternal Puzzle. Not out on any consoles I can find but still interesting!Also!Grand Theft Auto VI is delayedRockstar's fired employees were allegedly leaking information (uh huh)Protests erupt outside RockstarTexas sues Roblox (get ready to get acquainted with Ken Paxton, one of the worst dudes in the world)Borderlands 4 sales laggingAvowed 2 might be coming (according to disgraced Obsidian founder)Surprise! Executives believe Steam has a monopoly on PC Games market!Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra has been delayedConcord is fodder for UK House of Commons debateSquare Enix lays off over 100Square Enix wishes to move 70% of QA and debugging to generative AIUnbeatable delayed at the finish lineThis week, the crew played:The Outer Worlds 2KinophobiaSettlemoonPokémon Legends Z-AMarvel SnapAlso, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS from our lovely Discord.

From the VGBees Bonus Feed -- join The Hive today to get bonus episodes like this all year.John gave himself such a strange and wonderful birthday gift this year by asking Joe from the Joe Is Hungry YouTube channel for ninety minutes of his time. Joe, kindly, obliged. And this is the result. If you've never watched Joe Is Hungry, it is a fast food review channel with a growing and vocal fandom. You'll understand. Interview includes:Joe's background as a nursethe origin of the huge knifethe cats!Joe's video editing philosophies and how he learned the tradeJoe's feelings on the GoPro 10Joe's origins on the webJoe's stance on drive-thru AI botsand much, much moreIf you like bonuses like this, please tell your friends to JOIN THE HIVE.

This week, Niki has been taken by the Swamp Monster so Lotus and John are fending for themselves. Lucky for you, they love to yap! Included in the gab sesh:EA's generative AI tools all suck and no one likes themAmazon is cutting tens of thousands of jobsMany Amazon Games projects have shut downAmazon Games was apparently (???) competing with Steam the whole timeDon't Nod is working with Netflix IP for upcoming projectHuge Animal Crossing New Horizons update is comingNintendo is selling a huge Breath of the Wild vinyl setTake-Two & Rockstar do some union bustingStasisDeep Sleep TrilogyKinophobiaNinja Gaiden: RageboundShinobi: Art of VengeanceOnce Upon a KATAMARIPlus, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS from our Discord.

On this week's episode, Niki, Lotus, and John discuss Microsoft's extremely weird week/month/year/decade. Including:the 30% margin mandateflooding the zone with Fallout news, The Outer Worlds 2, Keeper, and Ninja Gaiden 4the inevitable return of HaloHalo Campaign Evolved being one of the worst titles everGrunts aren't supposed to glistendev kits see huge price hikePLUS:Krafton is "AI first"Jennifer Hale doesn't know Mass Effect 5 is doomedPokemon Legends Z-A is really funny??? On purpose????Ball x Pit is one of John's games of the yearWe also answer your BURNING HIVE QUESTIONS from our lovely (free!) Discord.

Hi folks! This week, Niki fills out an application for an apartment, John gets something wrong (again), and Lotus explores Steam Next Fest! Included in their discussion:Assassin's Creed lead departs UbisoftTencent and Sony apparently worked on a The Last of Us project togetherTomunobu Itagaki's legacyHard Drive's descent into 2005 internet bullshitQuantic Dream's new multiplayer projectLumines AriseBall x PitPokémon Z-ADanchi DaysHorripilantThe Third ShiftThe Séance of Blake ManorSepulchronand much more!Also, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS from our lovely Discord.

This week marks the beginning of the Lotus era at The VGBees Podcast. She joins John and Niki as the third permanent cohost of the show and immediately brings insight to the program like...what if Nintendo likes making money?But also!the dense delight of Digimon Story: Time Strangerthe apparent end of Hyper Light Breaker's developmentthe rumor that AMD needed a 10,000,000 unit commitment for Xbox's dedicated handheldNintendo's slide into DisneyficationUbisoft's canceled Reconstruction Era, anti-Klan Assassin's Creedwhy is former Halo art director vagueposting on LinkedIn?Megabonk's relationship with cringe and Risk of Rain 2Shadow Labyrinth being itself, for better or worseHades II's self-inflicted narrative challengesa thorough review of a new Windows PCAbsolum's rapid ascent to many Best of 2025 listsWe also answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS from our lovely Discord.

This week, Niki and John have a lot to chat about in and around a busy few days in video games, including:Xbox Game Pass Ultimate's huge price hikeinterpreting the latest in Microsoft's non-planObsidian bearing the brunt of Microsoft's decision-makingJared Kushner and Saudi Arabia are taking EA privateSeumas McNally Award Winner Consume Me's greatnessWheel of Fortune on the PlayStation 5Hades II is simply wonderful to playFinal Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles gets an apology from JohnSuper Mario Galaxy 2 continues the odd but welcome tradition of cutting room floor direct sequelsAll of this and your BURNING HIVE QUESTIONS from our Discord.

This week, Niki and John are joined by none other than Michael Higham on this, the very special 69th episode of The VGBees Podcast. In this jam-packed episode, we cover:Wolverine's profoundly bloody introductionthe Returnal of it all of Sarosa brief look at new Virtua Fighter Project detailsthe impossible bigness of Anantaa conversation about remakes prompted by the perplexing Deus Ex remasterForza Horizon 6 and how the game can recapture past magicEasy Delivery Co. and John unironically calling a game cozy in 2025Niki's evolving relationship with skate.Higham going long on Trails in the Sky and its new remakeBaby Steps As always, we also answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS from our lovely Discord.

This week, John regrets to inform you and Niki that Borderlands 4 is just more Borderlands, for better or worse. John thinks maybe worse. Niki's right, it's just 2K's Madden. Also:the very interesting misfire that is Skate.Dying Light: The Beast is apparently great but we can't get past the Hinterlands of Dying Light 2the poor PC performance of Borderlands 4 and Randy Pitchford's admittedly very, very, very funny (if wildly unprofessional) responses to that criticismthe flatness of NBA 2K26Tears of the Kingdom two and a half years laterPeloton's Lanebreakthe inextricable link between Queen Elizabeth dying and our layoff at Fanbytehow free to play trains us to invest lessWe, of course, answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS from our lovely Discord.

This week, Niki and John dive way way way into the mega-sized Nintendo Direct this week. Did you know that Super Mario is 40 years old??? Just like John! Wow! Also:paying for Super Mario Galaxy againNintendo remembers Super Mario Galaxy 2 existsthe new Mario movie is just Super Mario GalaxySuper Mario Wonder for Switch 2Mario Tennis FeverYoshi and the Mysterious BookVirtual Boy on Nintendo Switch OnlineSamus has a cool bike in Metroid Prime 4 Beyond nowHades II is out SO soonPokemon PokopiaDinkumFire Emblem Fortune's WeaveDonkey Kong Bananza DLCDragon Quest VII Reimaginedand more!Also, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS from our lovely Discord.

Hello! This week, John and Niki discuss the most explosive game release of the year, Hollow Knight: Silksong. 500,000 concurrents? Broken shops? Unfathomable discourse? You got it, baby.That, and:The downfall of games critThe value of asking piracy forum dwellers to weigh in on the most popular game of the year007 First Light gameplayFootball Manager 26College basketball coming to NBA 2KFiraxis layoffsKirby and the Forgotten Land for Switch 2Also, we answer your HIVE QUESTIONS from our lovely Discord.

This week, John is back at full strength and here to discuss all the games Niki has played! Among the discussion points:Layoffs at Giant Squid & Rec RoomConversation boundaries and etiquetteSword of the SeaWe Are OFKCircuits RoyalePokemon Red Rescue TeamPokemon Rescue Team DXMetal Gear Solid 3 Deltaand more!Also, we answer your BURNING HIVE QUESTIONS from our lovely Discord.

With John on the International Space Station, Niki and Lotus talk all things Gamescom 2025, including:Call of Duty: Black Ops 7Black Myth: Zhong KuiResident Evil RequiemWorld of Tanks: HeatGhost of YoteiWorld of Warcraft MidnightUNBEATABLEJohn Carpenter's Toxic CommandoHollow Knight: SilksongLEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark KnightPlus, a big, big dive into why Lotus is DONE with Marvel Rivals.Also, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS directly from our Discord.

This week, Niki and John are joined by Lotus, who has a lot of smart ideas about how messy the "reporting" around itch.io has gotten, frozen alcohol, and whole word comprehension. Also:the breakdown of "games journalist" as an ideaHardspace Shipbreaker goes to Blackbird 100%common core mathdrinking in parking lotsFrankenstein shoesadult bracesgetting addicted to going to the hospitalWe also answer your BURNING HIVE QUESTIONS from our Discord.

Niki and John had a great time talking about the Nintendo Indie World Showcase this week on the show right after they spent twelve minutes talking about a thing that's embargoed! When will you hear about it? Next week!What remains is still a rip-roaring two hours of video game bliss, including:Mage ArenaMerge MaestroPrimal PlanetFortnite's new Power Rangers/Halo seasonPuzzmoand more!Also, we answer ALL your HIVE QUESTIONS from our Discord.

This week, John and Niki discuss the latter's big media day with Battlefield 6, the game that's aiming for 100,000,000 players! Do they think it can happen? You'll have to listen to find out. Also:The stranger side of big PR gaming eventsTerri Schiavo (really)Ray Romano's net worthNintendo Partner ShowcaseDonkey Kong BananzaWhich eight Capcom games outsold Monster Hunter Wilds this quarterand much more!We also answer your BURNING HIVE QUESTIONS straight from our Discord.

Hi there! This week, Niki and John went super long and recorded three solid hours of discussion, including:College Football 26Donkey Kong BananzaWhat if the Switch 2 Lite has an OLED?The simple brilliance of TennoconWhat other PR teams miss about the process of making gamesThey also go very deep on this week's payments processor crackdown on adult Itch.io games and the government's continued assault on sex work, queerness, disability, etc. We offer a whole lot of unfiltered thoughts with very little by way of a solution. :-)Anyway, we also had a blast cracking a cold one and answering ALL of your BURNING HIVE QUESTIONS this week from our Discord.

Niki's live from London, Ontario this week at Tennocon while John's getting up at the crack to podcast. What a show, too! We're absolutely loving Donkey Kong Bananza and John might be obsessed with the Horse Girl Game????Also, we discuss the rise of fascism as expressed via:Roblox verifying the identities of children via AIFinancial transaction companies cracking down on Steam's adult contentThe 24/7 amateur surveillance stateAlso, books! Ever heard of them? We answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS directly from our Discord.

Niki is IN JOHN'S HOUSE this weekend. Wild stuff. They grabbed lunch at Hurtado BBQ and ate a truly irresponsible amount and then decided to podcast! Smart? Not really. But here we are! Discussion points:AEW All In TexasThe Steam Summer SalePeakRematchSongs/games of the summerSeasonal/weather-specific gamesWe also answer your HIVE QUESTIONS from Discord.

On a very special public bonus of the show, John is joined by fellow disabled games media person Grant Stoner (IGN, Polygon, VGBees) to celebrate Disability Pride Month! How do they celebrate? By regaling each other with tales of crippledom from yesterday and today! Also:The importance of sources in investigative journalismAdvice for disabled writers working in the fieldThe most out of pocket interactions we've had as disabled people (oops, all Christian mysticism!)The joy of breaking outside of accessibility coverage (to some extent)The excitement of community reportingHow layoffs disproportionately affect disabled workersAnd much more!We also answer some of your HIVE QUESTIONS from our Discord. We also compare head and torso sizes/shapes. You're welcome!

This week, Niki and John are joined by perhaps the greatest games media talent scout in the industry's history, Endless Mode's Editor-in-Chief Garrett Martin. He hung out to tell us about the new site, what to expect from its amazing writers, and, of course, theme parks! Also:nearly half an hour of AEW All In Texas preview discussion (sorry non-wrestling fans)Kotaku's sale to KeleopsMicrosoft's astonishing layoff round of 9,100 employeesPerfect Dark reboot canceled and studio shutteredEA's bonkers 100,000,000 player expectation for BattlefieldBonk!Shmups!Half SwordSGDQ 2025Also, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS from our Discord.

This week, Niki and John go deep (again) on Mario Kart World and its most head-scratching design choices. Tired of us talking about that? Okay! We also talked about:Andrew Wilson's obscene pay bump at EAMicrosoft's upcoming massive layoffPeak sells 2m copiesNintendo "fixes" something everyone thought was fine in Mario Kart Worldthe dark corners of Cyberpunk 2077and much more!Also, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS from our Discord!

John returns to the podcast after spending last week in the hospital and joins Niki to talk about the second full week of Switch 2 as well as:the indefinite Marathon delay3rd party titles apparently lagging on Switch 2historic sales figures for Switch 2Xbox's core strategyMario Kart WorldDonkey Kong BananzaCyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2PoxelFBC: FirebreakDeltaruneAlso, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS from our lovely Discord community.

This week, John was zooted in the hospital recovering from surgery (he's fine!), so Niki and Lotus took the reins and delivered a banger of an episode, featuring:Summer Game Fest swagSonic Racing: CrossworldsLumines AriseMindsEyeMario Kart Worldthe rise of fascism and incompetence of our oppressorsNintendo Switch 2 first week sales figuresand much, much moreAlso, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS straight from our lovely Discord.

John broke his ankle in a car accident so couldn't make it out to SGF this year, so instead Niki attended the planned VGBees Mixer and we decided to set up a little area for John to digitally greet guests. And then we decided to make it into an episode. Smart? Not really! Jordan Mallory, our intrepid producer, did a marvelous job making this at least listenable, but conceptually it was not smart. But we did it anyway!The VGBees Way.Is it a fun episode? Yes. John tackles the Sony State of Play and thoughts on Elden Ring: Nightreign while we get lots of really fun cameos from folks across games media!Video version recommended on this one, but the audio is definitely worse there. We'll record more "normal" eps during SGF.Thanks for your patience and support! Hive Questions will be called upon this weekend!

Niki and John are riding solo this week while we prepare for Summer Game Fest. Included in their hangout:Coverage expectations of Geoff's big showEA's cancelation of Black Panther and the closure of CliffhangerMemories of E3Battle Aces shutting downTencent's recent catalogXbox moving away from proprietary handheld (for now)Elden Ring Nightreign's PC problemsgetting paid to hate a gameAlso, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS from our Discord!

This week, Niki and John are joined by one fifth of the owners of Giant Bomb, the unfathomable Dan Ryckert! Yes, wrestling comes up. Yes, fast food brands are discussed. Yes, extremely local minutia is mentioned. Also:Joe is HungryTommy Tallaricoowning a business like owning a car?Death Stranding 2: On the BeachTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical TakedownTo a TDeliver At All CostsStar CitizenWe answer your HIVE QUESTIONS from our Discord like we do every single week!

Hello Hive! This week, Niki and John are joined by extremely talented and funny video essayist, streamer, and podcast host Jenna Stoeber! In addition to a lively discussion of whether can is barrel, the group discussed:Jenna's PAX EastKaraoke go-tosEnding our time with Blue PrinceNintendo Switch 2 colliding with Summer Game FestThe non-story of Kingdom Hearts IV's screenshot dropBungie possibly lifting stolen art directly into Marathon's alphaand more!Also, we answer your HIVE QUESTIONS, which you can provide for us every single week on our Discord.

This week, John and Niki ride as a duo to talk about the big American Pope. Also:big questions about how independent games outlets can survivekilling Avatar Aang in Fortniteflying an X-Wing in Fortniteglitching a car out of existence in Fortnitethe genius of Fortnite nearly eight years inthe act of play in Despelotegrounding yourself when you're disappearing into games (or whatever, frankly)We answer your HIVE QUESTIONS every single week on the show, but you must JOIN THE HIVE to do so!

This week, Niki and John were supremely lucky to have Jeff Gerstmann on the show to discuss the shocking sale of Polygon to Valnet (laying off the vast majority of the team there) and the implosion of Giant Bomb, the very website Jeff cofounded 17 years ago. We did not plan Jeff's appearance like this! We promise. Niki, as of this recording, was still technically under contract there!Very wild and sad and emotionally-draining day, but we still go around to other topics, including:What to make of the State of Play for Borderlands 4Apple losing the ability to block third party payment platformsXbox price hikesSkin Deep, the new hilarious immersive sim from BlendoJar Jar's in Fortnite nowClair Obscur is still unbelievably FrenchWe even got Jeff to briefly talk about Blitzball. What a treat.As usual, we pulled your burning HIVE QUESTIONS straight from our Discord like we do every single week.

This week, Niki and John are joined by game developer and former colleague (and current friend) Fūnk-é Joseph to discuss the Nintendo DS! That's it! That's all! Just two hours of Nintendo DS! Actually, you'd probably be totally cool with that, but we did move onto other topics, including:the Nintendo Switch 2 preorder messDonkey Kong Bananza's clear connection to Red Factionhow Mario Kart World is attracting the hatersMarathon alphaClair Obscur: Expedition 33, the world's most French gameexplaining Blue PrinceAll of this and your HIVE QUESTIONS, answered each and every episode.

This week, Niki and John are joined by the wonderful Jessica Cogswell of Gamespot dot com. We talk hot neighborhood gossip including a harrowing tale from Jess right from her own back yard. Of course, we also talked about games, including:The reveal of Bungie's MarathonNew Mario Kart World detailsThe good and bad of Blue Prince, one of the year's most polarizing gamesLeaving the bloat behind in Final Fantasy VII RebirthAlso, Jess commits to getting John into Magic: The Gathering at SGF this year. Niki's clean and will not participate.Finally, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS, featuring some bangers about music, mediocre games that never drop price, and snacks.

This week, John & Niki are joined by former Fanbyte colleague and current social media manager at System Era, Lotus! We started by getting caught up on Starseeker, the next game from the makers of Astroneer, one of the many titles affected by the odd YouTube technical issues during the Nintendo Direct. Also:More tariff changesMore Switch 2 preorder delaysThe GameCube controller has bizarre limitationsThe Piranha Plant camera for Switch 2 is 480pThose Titanfall 3 rumorsA Slay the Spire mod with waifusAlso, we played:South of MidnightHot WaxMTG ArenaAs always, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS, which you can ask each and every week if you're a member of The Hive.

Only two short days after the announced details of the Nintendo Switch 2 and about twelve hours after we recorded this week's main VGBees Podcast episode, Donald Trump's trade war with the rest of the world created the environment responsible for Nintendo announcing the delay of US pre-orders for their new console.I decided it was worth recording a public feed bonus with my friend and former colleague Imran Khan to discuss the event. We covered a lot of ground, including:A recap of Wednesday's announcementsTrump's specific new tariffs announced Wednesday afternoonNintendo's response on FridayHow this expands WAY beyond Switch 2Why manufacturing jobs will not be created sustainably here in the USWhy this moment may or may not radicalize the average gamerHow these conditions may cause more delays, price increases, and supply issuesIf this is your first time thinking about things like this, welcome! We don't judge! Just consider looking at your hobbies getting priced out of your comfort zone as the first step in looking at the world in a more intersectional way! Okay!?!If you like the idea of maybe making more bonus podcasts, consider supporting us at vgbees.com/join.

In this supersized episode, John and Niki are joined by Game Informer Associate Producer Charles Harte to unpack the 60 minute Nintendo Direct for Switch 2 and all of the accompanying (and globally relevant) stories coming out of the event. Including:The console's price pointMario Kart World's features & $80 price pointWhat $80 Nintendo games mean for the industryWhy Switch 2 costs what it costsDouble mice with Drag x DriveThe shocking reveal of Bloodborne spiritual successor The DuskbloodsEnhanced editions of Nintendo Switch gamesDonkey Kong BananzaAlso, we discuss games we've been playing, including:South of MidnightAtomfallAvowedFinally, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS, including one about exploring weird themed grocery store Jungle Jim's in Cincinnati.

This week, John and Niki are joined by the wonderful Ben Pack to discuss this week's fascinating, funny, and sometimes confusing Nintendo Direct!The strange (reported) rollout plan for Switch 2Metroid Prime 4: BeyondEternal Life of GoldmanTomodachi Life: Living the DreamRhythm Heaven GrooveMarvel Cosmic InvasionNintendo Virtual Game Cards (?????)Also discussed:Cristiano Ronaldo joining Fatal Fury: City of the WolvesTencent & Ubisoft creating a new subsidiary to house certain IPAvowedR.E.P.O.All Systems DanceAssassin's Creed ShadowsThe crew also answers your burning HIVE QUESTIONS like we do each and every week!

Texas, my home, has been a battleground over the soul of the American Dream as it pertains to immigrants from around the globe. I want to use whatever platform I have to educate myself and my audience about things that matter to me. Right now, our laws are eroding around us and immigration attorneys like my guest in this bonus episode are part of a group fighting for the vulnerable every day.Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch (aka Abogada Kate) is an immigration attorney in Austin, TX, serving families and individuals through the complicated and sometimes harrowing immigration process. In this conversation we cover:How the day to day work of an immigration law office has changed since November 2024 and since Trump took officeHow our rule of law has eroded and what advice Kate would have for citizens and non-citizens during this unstable periodThoughts on the Mahmoud Khalil caseHow the legal profession is responding to the Trump administration's tacticsThe process of becoming a US citizenThe prospect of overhauling our immigration systemThe beauty of being a country of immigrantsHow attitudes about labor can shape the immigration conversation for better and for worseHow we can protect non-citizens and permanent residentsIf you would like more resources on the rights of immigrants, go to https://www.abogadakate.com/safety/ to download guides on what to do if an immigrant is approached at home, at work, in their cars, etc.

This week, Niki joins (for about half an hour) from the Fandom Chamber of Audio Recording in San Francisco to help John find a Lexus LS 400 he can buy. They're joined by special guest Tim Rogers, who helped the crew rethink their camera and monitor setups. Whatever notes John had for the show...don't worry about it. Instead, Tim and John spent 2.5 hours discussing:Yasuke being cool as hell in Assassin's Creed ShadowsThe Easy-Bake Oven Witcher 3-ification of Assassin's CreedSports gambling and the possible equivalent in gamesHorse ArmorPomeraniansLost media (and if that's even what we'd call what people are referring to as "lost media" now)Kitchen NightmaresAnd a lot more, honestly! We also answer some of your burning HIVE QUESTIONS, including a rundown of all the weird things we call our dogs.

This week, Niki and John are joined by Polygon's Patrick Gill, who goes deep on why Monster Hunter Wilds is so good, his most recent video guide on the game, and which weapons Niki and John should used based on their chosen professional wrestling style. Good stuff. Also:The fucking Strains are at it againScopely buys Niantic's gaming wing for $3.5bSaudi fund inks 3-year deal with Capcom for Street Fighter 6 tournamentsThe Elder Scrolls: Oblivion is getting a remake soonPower Wash Simulator 2 announcedAlso discussed:FortniteThe Forever WinterSkin DeepHalf SwordAvowedMullet MadjackFragpunkAs always, we answer your HIVE QUESTIONS like we do each and every week! Lots of wrestling chat in this one, if that's your pleasure.

This week, Niki and John are joined by former Fanbyte colleague and current PC Gamer writer Andrea Shearon! We had to ask our resident Final Fantasy XIV expert about Yoshi-P leaving the Square-Enix Board of Directors and about the future of the company. Also:Sega is the best-reviewed publisher of 2024Sega is releasing fewer games but doubling down on big franchisesMonster Hunter Wilds has a massive launchClair Obscur: Expedition 3325 years of PlayStation 2AvowedLost Records: Rage & BloomRue ValleyFruit FightKingdom Come Deliverance IIAlso, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS like we do each and every week.

This week, Niki and John are joined by bestie of the show Michael Higham to discuss cooking habits, the games we're playing, and the news of the week, including:the secret to great homemade ranchthe Pokémon PresentsPokémon Legends: Z-APokémon ChampionsWarner Bros. closing Monolith and canceling Wonder WomanCEOs and their marketing strategiesBossa Games' CEO's weird LinkedIn postAvowedSouth of MidnightWe also answer ONE of your Hive Questions this week. Yep. Ran out of time. We're going to record a bonus to get to the rest of them, so stay tuned for that if you're a Hive Member!

This week, John and Niki are joined by the one and only Merritt K, one of the brilliant minds behind Fledgling Manor. The show starts, of course, with the most important news of the week: how much the Nintendo Tip Line cost per minute. Also:NetEase laying off the Seattle Marvel Rivals teamMicrosoft's new Muse generative AI initiativeNiantic in talks to be purchased by Scopely for $3.5bHades II gets a big update (and into some interesting territory with SAG-AFTRA)Also, we talk about Avowed and 1994's hottest game, Stone Protectors.We answer your HIVE QUESTIONS, including who we would cast in this year's star-studded Call of Duty ad.

This week, John asks Niki all about Split Fiction, the follow-up to award-winning It Takes Two. It is another one of those, for better or worse (mostly better). They also dive way, way, way into the big changes coming to Overwatch 2. What are they? Do they matter? Where did this franchise lose its way?Also:Sony's State of PlaySarosTides of AnnihilationShinobi: Art of VengeanceDarwin's ParadoxOnimushaReality BreakTekken Tag Tournament 2: Wii U EditionAvowedOf course, your HIVE QUESTIONS are also answered like they are each and every week!

This week, John and Niki discuss what it would take to get them to attend the new ESA-fronted conference called iicon starting next April in Las Vegas. It's like GDC but worse, somehow. Also:Metal Gear Solid Delta gets a release dateGrand Theft Auto 6 confirmed for fall 2025timeline on new Nvidia cards coming back in stockKingdom Come: Deliverance 2Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward VectorVirtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O.Marvel RivalsEternal StrandsAnimal Crossing: New HorizonsOf course, we answer your HIVE QUESTIONS like we do each and every week.

The entire sports world was shocked when 5-time All-NBA 1st Teamer and 25 year old megastar Luka Doncic was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers for a Randy's donut and some unpaid parking tickets. Okay maybe it's not quite that bad, but it's really, really, really close.Your local basketball experts and fans of both teams in question, John and Niki, break down what you need to know about why the trade happened, what happens to both of these teams, and the long-term effects this trade may have around the league.They also get into why sports are great and why the current crop of major team ownership is in it for entirely the wrong reasons. Come for the jokes about how this basically shaved 10 years off of John's life, stay for the genuinely heartfelt conclusion about why sports are all about community.Some media you might be interested in:ESPN's longform piece about the tradeThe bizarre Nico Harrison press conferenceThe Shams tweet everyone thought was fake

This week, Niki and John dive into the news that BioWare is downsizing and outsourcing part of Mass Effect 5's development. More than that, it strikes our hosts that maybe the series should go away if it means saving the jobs of the remaining employees tasked with such a burden. Anyway, it's a good discussion about a complicated problem. Also:the Video Game History Foundation's excellent new digital archives have launchedForza Horizon 5 is coming to PS5 with crossplayMicrosoft's two-sided strategyEternal StrandsVirtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O.Ninja Gaiden II BlackWe also answer your HIVE QUESTIONS, including "what's the video game equivalent of 'hot singles in your area?'"

This week, Niki and John take in the most recent Xbox Direct showcase and dive into each game discussed, including:Ninja Gaiden 4South of MidnightExpedition 33Doom: The Dark AgesThey also discuss the cancelation of Celeste follow-up Earthblade and the blog post announcing it. In addition, the news that EA is disappointed in the sales of both Dragon Age: The Veilguard and EA Sports FC 25 is examined through a lens that understands the latter is much, much, much more interesting and noteworthy than the former.As always, the duo answers your burning HIVE QUESTIONS, including whether $100 video games will catch on and which game would make the best musical.

This week, Niki and John discuss the biggest story in games. That's right, it's the MegaByte Nation Gaming Expo from Los Angeles, CA! What are Game Hogs up to? What does a UMD of old Family Guy episodes cost?Oh also we discuss the official announcement of Nintendo Switch 2, including:form factor changesJoy-Cons are also mice?guesses about the new Mario Kartspeculation on release dateand much more!We also answer your Hive Questions like we every single week! Which game would change the hearts and minds of a Footloose-style town that hates video games?

This week, Niki is laying low to escape the horrible fires facing Los Angeles. John runs solo, discussing the games news of the week, including:Nintendo Switch 2 rumorsthe delay of Assassin's Creed ShadowsTencent's designation as a military organizationthe new LEGO Game BoyWe also answer your HIVE QUESTIONS and discuss John's fleet of emulation devices.Here are some links for donations/causes to help aid in the recovery of Los Angeles.Watch Duty - donations go toward running an incredibly helpful tracking service for AngelenosCanine Rescue Club - helping match displaced pets with fosters in times of great distress like thisGear Drive Fire Support - organizing local needs in a handy spreadsheetPasadena Humane - providing emergency care and treatment of animals affected by the firesCalifornia Community Foundation - donating to their wildlife recovery fund directly contributes to local recovery effortsWorld Central Kitchen - providing meals for first responders and others in need of nourishing mealsAll Power Books - local Los Angeles bookstore organizing distribution of shelf stable food, water, and other necessities to people in need

This week, Niki and John both shake off their respective Holiday illnesses to come together for the first episode of 2025! They reflect on what they might have missed in 2024, including:Mouthwashing1000xResistMetaphor: ReFantazioThe Rise of the Golden IdolAlso, what would the first episode of the new year be without predictions for games to play in 2025:Death Stranding 2: On the BeachFBC: FirebreakPokemon Legends: Z-ASkateJudasWe also answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS like we do each and every week!

It is that time of year! VGBees has awarded its official (well John and Niki's) Games of the Year 2024! We had two overlaps, so we cover eight total games and wow we had a blast revisiting the year's very best games.Not to spoil the surprise (stop reading if you don't want to know), but in alphabetical order we discuss:Astro BotBalatroCall of Duty: Black Ops 6Content WarningCrow CountryIndiana Jones and the Great CirclePath of Exile 2Thank Goodness You're Here!No HIVE QUESTIONS in this special episode, but you can always join and ask us questions every single week and we'll answer them on the show!

Niki and John go through a whirlwind of big games news this week, including the revelation that Woody Johnson is steering New York Jets personnel decisions with advice from his sons, Brick and Jack, derived from Madden 25 player stats. Also:the Charlotte Hornets Grinch a PS5 away from a childSony invests big in Kadokawa (FromSoftware's parent company)the Switch 2 is called Switch 2 (probably)As far as what we've been playing, well:Path of Exile 2Indiana Jones and the Great CircleMarvel RivalsAs always, we answer your HIVE QUESTIONS on the show and this week we went deep on why we're not convinced Indy's new adventure is a true immersive sim. Stay tuned this week for our first ever Hive Five Games of the Year podcast!

This week, Niki worked an entire human day within the span of two human days to work Gamespot/Giant Bomb's TGA coverage and lived (thrived!) to tell about it. John asks burning questions like "what was the deal with those long sandwiches Dan Ryckert was giving to people?"Then, they get into the meat of The Game Awards 2024, including:The Witcher 4Elden Ring NightreignVirtua FighterOnimusha: Way of the SwordOkami SequelProject: RobotIntergalactic: The Heretic ProphetAstro Bot winning Game of the Yearand much more!Also, what did giving the Game Changer Award to a (perfectly nice and helpful) business development director at Tencent say about the industry's current tenuous situation?We, of course, answer your HIVE QUESTIONS like we do every single week.

HARK! An early holiday gift from VGBees is upon us!We have reunited Nerium, Natalie Flores, and Michael Higham to unpack Dragon Age: The Veilguard in the style of acclaimed former Fanbyte podcast 99 Potions.Did we like it? Who are our favorite companions? Did Solas live up to the villain hype?If you like this bonus, know that in the future, we'll be putting big fancy bonus episodes like this behind The Hive, VGBees' premium subscription. Your support allows us to do many more of these! We'd love to do more of these!

This week, Niki calls in from the cartoon construction zone that is their house this week. That didn't stop Niki and John from talking about this week's video game news, including:Ubisoft studio closuresXDefiant's shutdownElden Ring follow-up not in developmentthe forbidden conversations we're hearing during Call of Duty matchesWe also talk about the stuff we're playing AND we answer so so so so many of your amazing Hive Questions, which had us planning a trip to Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

It's a Thanksgiving Week miracle! Niki and John recorded a podcast early in the week so they could take the rest of the week off! Wow! What foresight!Sure, there's some video game talk, but Niki also introduces the podcast to Car From Japan, the most important website of all time. Need a short truck? Need an old Lexus LS 400? This site has you covered.Also, we answer your burning HIVE QUESTIONS, including:What has to be in your Thanksgiving spread?Which games get you in the holiday spirit?Which games have you played many times and still return to?What's the "but doctor, I am Pagliacci" of video games?

This week, Niki presents John with a long dissection of Days Gone, not even remotely a new video game. Still, it is welcome information which it is a game both of them missed when it came out five years ago. Did you know the main character's name is Deacon St. John? Now you do! Also:S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of ChornobylCall of Duty: Black Ops 6YIIK: A Postmodern RPGStar Wars BattlefrontBattlefieldTitanfallApex LegendsWe also gave The Game Awards on this one! You're welcome, Geoff! As always, we answer your HIVE QUESTIONS and it took us directly to the heart of All Elite Wrestling this week.

This week, Niki is back and with them comes the revelation that Xbox has gone and found itself an official breakfast partner. That's right IHOP is the official breakfast partner of Xbox and Niki and John are going to bring you all the crucial details right here on this very podcast. In less vital news:Nintendo's desired damages from Pocket PairEverything is Xbox (according to Phil Spencer)BalatroStar Wars OutlawsCall of Duty: Black Ops 6Dragon Age: The VeilguardPokémon Trading Card Game PocketAnd of course, all of your burning HIVE QUESTIONS are answered!

This week, Niki is on vacation and John is left to his own devices. After planning a 99 Potions reunion to discuss Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the Election happened! Between the emotional fallout from that and other scheduling issues, we're delaying that for a couple weeks.So yeah! It's John, talking to you, dear listener, about video games.But also...the Election. If you're bummed about it and don't want to hear it, I understand. You can skip to the 24 minute mark to get past it and onto Strauss Zelnick, Take-Two CEO, being way too excited about the Election and the company's sale of Private Division.Also:Switch 2's backward compatibilityDragon Age: The VeilguardMetaphor: ReFantazioAstro BotMarvel SnapJohn also answers your burning Hive Questions. Be good to each other, everyone! See you next week.

This week, Niki and John explore the world of Champions Tactics: Grimoria Chornicles, an Ubisoft-published video game that wants you to shell out a preposterous amount of money on NFTs. Can you image a better time to be launching a game like this? Wow!Also, the dynamic duo discuss:the closure of Firewalk Studiosthe new Pokemon pack-opening gamethe Nintendo Music appCall of Duty: Black Ops 6Dragon Age: The VeilguardAnd much, much more. As always, your Hive Questions are answered, including John's admission of his worst ever Halloween costume. It's worse than you think!

This week, Niki and John could not for the life of them remember the names of the peak Covid Call of Duty games, so they leaned into it for content. Gotta find inspiration where you can these days. Frank Underwood also makes his return the show! VGBees only does big guests. Also:Hades 2 new updatesBalatroDave the DiverUFO 50Halo 2John enlists Niki to help him buy a new TV, which just depresses him. Why are TVs expensive?As always, we answer your burning Hive Questions, including one about whether VGBees is a pro Mario Party publication.

On this weeks' show, Niki and John go DEEP on the new NBA 2K25 DLC Gravity Ball. What does it mean for the franchise, its audience, and new players? Hope you like 50 minutes of exploring all of that!But that's not all! There was a big third party partner Xbox Showcase that was actually pretty good, including:Alan Wake II: The Lake HouseFBC FirebreakBlindfireCronos: The New DawnLike a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in HawaiiThere was a Pokemon leak, too! Busy week! And of course, we answer your burning Hive Questions.

Editor's note: this week's episode contains an incredulous collective unpacking of an explosive investigative report about Roblox which goes into the many ways the game is dangerous for children. While not going into graphic detail about what was found in the report, it's still a troubling look into the different ways Roblox and its ownership have put children in danger.This week, John & Niki are joined by none other than IGN's Michael Higham, VGBees' number one fan and supporter. Michael played all of Metaphor: ReFantazio and graced us with a deep dive on the game's vibes, story, mechanics, and much more. Seems like another banger in a year full of them. Also discussed:Roblox and the Hindenberg Research reportNintendo AlarmoStarfield: Shattered SpaceElder ScrollsPersonaWe also answer your burning Hive Questions, including "what is the video game equivalent of Aaron Rodgers getting Robert Saleh fired?"

This week, Niki goes deep on Starfield's DLC, Shattered Space. It's about the snake people, the most interesting part of the original Starfield. Does the DLC have the juice to get folks back into Todd's big space sandbox? Will John have a meltdown comparing the narrative depth and nuance of Tali's Pilgrimage quest in Mass Effect to what happens in Shattered Space? You'll simply have to listen to find out.The dynamic duo also answers your burning Hive Questions, covering ground including:naming pets after video game charactersworking on one game franchise for over a decadecomparing Randy Pitchford favorably to Neil Druckmann3D Mario games vs 2D Mario gamesthe Megalopolis video game of our dreamsthe best steward of a future AEW video gameand more!

This week, Niki and John discuss their favorites so far in the year's most astonishing release, UFO 50. What's your favorite from the collection? Also:Ghost of YoteiLegacy of Kain 1 & 2 RemasteredHell is UsOverwatchThe Legend of Zelda: Echoes of WisdomAs always, your burning questions from The Hive are addressed and answered!

Nintendo decided to sue Palworld this week so Niki and John would have something to really dig into. Thanks, Nintendo!!!!!!!Also this week:Switch 2 possibly leakedConcord's team is in limboshockingly positive Dragon Age: The Veilguard previewsthe PSX-styled PS5 fleetthe breadth of UFO 50Your Hive questions are also answered and the podcast got emotional over the loss of communal spaces and arcades!

This week, John breaks the news of Annapurna Interactive's staff resignation to Niki. They also break down the PlayStation 5 Pro reveal and talk about the 650 additional people laid off from Microsoft this week. As far as specific game chat:Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade ClassicsPaper Mario: The Thousand Year DoorI Am Your BeastSuper Mario OdysseyAstro BotFinal Fantasy VIIISoulcaliburPower StoneAs always, we answer questions straight from The Hive!

Niki has been blessed to have several days with Astro Bot and decided to tell John all about it, despite the fact that John can't play it for another few weeks. Tragedy. It sounds absolutely lovely and what a time for it, too. In addition to contemplating the overall state of games, the two discuss:ConcordMarvel SnapBalatroWe also answer your burning questions from The Hive and wow, y'all really asked some good ones this week!As always, you can join The Hive and ask us questions each and every week!

Niki and John have a good old fashioned "hey are we separating art from artist now" conversation they didn't plan for when tackling the receptions to Black Myth Wukong, Star Wars Outlaws, and the inevitable Assassin's Creed Shadows. In lighter fare, the two also discuss:Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door RemakeThe Legend of Heroes: Trails in the SkyAstro Botthe Double Dragon moviewho we'd put in Fortnite nextand much more!As always, we answer YOUR questions from The Hive! You can join The Hive right now and ask questions each and every week!

This week, Niki and John celebrate the return of Peter Molyneux to the world of games with his main stage appearance at Gamescom Opening Night Live. We were just talking about needing more weird guys in games, and wow we got our wish! Will his game ever come out? How much did he actually make on that NFT game he probably used to fund this new game? Will he be sued by Microsoft even though "Albion" is not a trademarked name? This and much more:Indiana Jones and the Great CircleCall of Duty: Modern Warfare 6Lynked: Banner of the SparkInZOIMasters of AlbionCivilization VIIBorderlands 4We also answer your Hive questions, like which celebrity should Hideo Kojima put in the next Death Stranding but is too scared to do so? Spoilers, there is one correct and immediately agreed-upon answer from your hosts!As always, you can join The Hive to get your burning questions answered on the show each and every week!

We have a big confession to make, gamers. John and Niki have watched videos and read articles about a video game called Deadlock, which Valve has sworn us to secrecy never to divulge its very existence. Consider it then, dear gamer, a privilege that we've chosen your ears as the recipient of our knowledge. If we disappear from this earth, you will know our sacrifice. Also:2XKOMadden 25FortniteDragon Age: The VeilguardThe Plucky SquireWe also answer questions from The Hive and continue developing the all-important VGBees Census!

This week, John and Niki are joined by former Video Lead at Game Informer Alex Van Aken to talk about the abrupt, ghoulish closure of the storied publication. It's a great chat that illuminates what the past few months has been like at the magazine as well as a bit of a dive into some history and memories of the brand. Alex also pulls the curtain back on his new supporter-funded project Viewport.Also discussed:The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of WisdomThe Borderlands filmWolfeye's Dishonored/Prey-like new RPGCollege Football 25With Hive questions like:When you do consider a game completed?What ancient game do you want to see a Balatro for?Does a LEGO minifig have fingers or thumbs?As always, you can join The Hive and ask us questions we'll tackle every single week!

This week, Niki and John discuss a terrible week for Bungie employees, a terrible week for Jon Blow, and a terrible week for AI discourse in video games. All in all, it's a laugh riot for two straight hours! Also discussed:Thank Goodness You're Here!Steamworld Heist IICollege Football 25Madden NFL 25NBA 2K25Also, Hive questions about:Richard GarriottPeter MolyneuxShane McMahonBubsy (essentially)Grand Theft Auto (complete with thorough discussion about why the modern political nature of these games is so goofy and outdated)As always, become a member of The Hive to have your questions answered on the show!

This week, Niki and John got way into it about Evo 2024, the brilliance of fighting games, and the way sports have (and haven't) infiltrated the industry's biggest event for the genre. Also:No Man's Sky 5.0FlockDungeons of HinterbergThe crew also (clumsily) dissected the ramifications of Bethesda and World of Warcraft teams forming wall-to-wall unions this week. Seems particularly big in the face of Humble Games shutting down and the weird spin Ziff Davis put on the closure.Hive questions include:What's the gaming equivalent of saying Macbeth in a theater?Are curved monitors a scam?Who should write the Skibidi Toilet movie?This episode marked the debut of The VGBees Census, a new segment designed to pull biographical and taste information from our guests. This week's test subject was cohost Niki Grayson. Thanks Niki! Also, happy birthday Barley!As always, you can join The Hive and ask questions in our Discord and we'll answer them on the show!

This week, Niki and John tackle the most important news of the week, including:whether Niki should see Longlegsnot wearing headphones on video callshanging doorsOh also video games, including:Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the GoddessBioshock InfiniteEmio - The Smiling ManIn hour two, they're joined by Secret Base's Kofie Yeboah, who is as excited as everyone else about the return of EA Sports' college football...aptly called College Football 25. John also asks about Skip Bayless, in what is likely the only time he will ever come in on this program. Thanks for your patience.As always, join The Hive and ask questions and we'll answer them on the show!

This week, Niki and John are joined by The Verge's Ash Parrish. On the agenda:- our favorite jazz musicians- which wines pair best with human aging- disgusting Aperol- Cody Rhodes' appalling chosen aestheticOH ALSO video games!- Zenless Zone Zero- Supermoves- Xbox Game Pass tier changes- Steam Deck- 2K's rumored FIFA game- College Football 25- Riot's canceled platform fighterAs always, you can support VGBees by joining The Hive over at https://vgbees.com/join

This week, John's riding solo due to holiday scheduling apocalypses. Never fear! He's here to chat about the best in games this week, including:- The new Switch Online slate (it's weird)- Fragpunk's closed alpha- M. Bison is live in Street Fighter 6- The Land Beneath Us puts an interesting spin on roguelitesALSO, we answer questions directly from The Hive!- Will AAA development ever find a path to sustainability?- Which Kingdom Hearts game is the best?- Have you ever thought about roasting your own coffee beans?This and more in this week's episode!Join the Hive at https://vgbess.com/join

John and Niki are back at it again with all the news and analysis in games you need to know. This time, they're joined by Imran Khan, who is totally normal when it comes to heating up leftovers!Anyway! The crew covered a lot of ground this week including:Guy "Dr. Disrespect" Beahm's overdue ouster from the public consciousness in the wake of the revelations of his "inappropriate" correspondence with a minor in 2017Elden Ring: Shadow of the ErdtreeSuper Monkey Ball Banana RumbleChained TogetherFortniteThe crew also discusses the best sales at the beginning of the Steam Summer Sale and answers the burning questions directly from The Hive!

John and Niki take a deep dive into a very strong Nintendo Direct, featuring discussion of:The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of WisdomMario & Luigi: BrothershipMetroid Prime 4: BeyondMarvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade ClassicsThe New Denpa MenLater, they're joined by writer, author, and budding miniature painting YouTuber Merritt K to chat everything Warhammer 40,000, including:What's in the heads of the guys from Space Marine 2?Do Space Marines have balls?Why did the Squats go away?and much more!Don't forget to Join the Hive!

Niki and John are joined this week by Game Informer associate editor and MinnMax contributor Charles Harte. All three were all in Los Angeles to cover Summer Game Fest 2024 and came away feeling mostly energized by what they saw and played.Covered in this episode:- LEGO Horizon Adventures- Wanderstop- Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind- Skate- Fable- Doom: The Dark Ages- South of Midnight- Gears of War E-Day- Dragon Age: The Veilguard- Monster Hunter Wilds- Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess- Fear the Spotlight- Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves- Hyper Light Breaker

On the eve of SGF, John posted up in his downtown Los Angeles hotel room to talk to himself for roughly 40 minutes. Niki's busy getting ready for Giant Bomb's extremely busy weekend and John's trying to get a website launched, so please enjoy this more low-key second episode before we go deep on everything going on with SGF.Topics covered:Dragon Age: Dreadwolf has a new name and it's pretty badMicrosoft's rumored handheldThe $200M disaster of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice LeagueThanks for being here! See you next week!

John & Niki are officially back in the saddle talking what it means to be back working in games media after a hiatus!TL;DR, they're both excited to be doing this again together.This week, our hosts are eaten up with what makes a game "finished" in 2024 and does it even matter? Hades 2 is certainly big for an Early Access game, but how does it evolve between now and 1.0?John's wondering what was up with that weird Neil Druckmann interview and Niki's just asking questions about that very unfortunately Destiny 2 leak.If you can believe it, another massive publishing company is getting in bed with AI for reasons that make sense (if you're a suit who doesn't care about the majesty of human creativity).Also discussed:The Rogue Prince of PersiaWildermyth's bow and exitWhat we expect to see at Summer Game FestHead to VGBees to sign up to be informed when the site launches! We'll have tons of SGF coverage!