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This week on the M2 Podcast, we break down Xbox’s latest moves, including the launch of Xbox Labs to experiment with emerging technology and the new $50 Xbox Nano Controller. We also celebrate the Australian Game Developer Awards, where Mixtape took home Game of the Year, before diving into Epic Games’ reported shift toward AI-first development for its upcoming Marvel and Star Wars shooter. What does AI-driven game development mean for creativity, developers, and the future of the industry? We discuss the potential benefits, the risks, and whether gaming’s biggest companies are innovating for players or prioritizing efficiency above all else.  0:00 Intro 1:11 Updates 10:51 Xbox announces Xbox Labs https://tinyurl.com/yazk8z7k  25:58 Xbox Nano Controller Announced https://tinyurl.com/msv72ur2  39:27 Mixtape wins three awards https://tinyurl.com/ynbv299z  46:02 Epic Games reportedly pivoting to “AI first”https://tinyurl.com/yeyr2c6b  1:06:35 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week on the M2 Podcast, we dive into the growing chaos of AI-generated games after someone recreated Minecraft as a playable multiplayer experience directly inside X—and immediately monetized it with crypto sponsorships. We also break down Call of Duty’s upcoming support for NVIDIA’s RTX Spark and Windows on Arm, what it means for PC gaming and anti-cheat, and Xbox’s confusing clarification surrounding GTA 6 streaming and its potential PC implications. Finally, we discuss former Activision CEO Bobby Kotick joining Skydance’s board and what his return to the entertainment industry could mean for the future of Warner Bros. and its gaming properties. 0:00 Intro 0:42 Update 10:40 Minecraft Playable Inside Twitter With Working Multiplayer https://tinyurl.com/zwux7e6f  21:37 Call of Duty will support RTX Spark in 2027 https://tinyurl.com/3shfzccs  29:08 Xbox Rejects ‘GTA 6’ PC Streaming https://tinyurl.com/bve83u5r  36:14 Bobby Kotick Joins Skydance Board Of Directors https://tinyurl.com/yee6b8pw  45:45 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week on the M2 Podcast, we dive into the massive new details revealed about Grand Theft Auto 6, including its living world, deeper NPC interactions, criminal profile system, and the sheer scale of Leonida. We also break down a major PS5 hacking breakthrough that could open the door to homebrew, emulation, and game preservation on far more consoles. Bungie reveals plans to restore vaulted Destiny 2 content as it looks to rebuild the franchise’s future, while Microsoft makes its biggest Xbox shakeup yet by handing the next Halo game to Activision and restructuring multiple studios. From Rockstar’s next-generation open world to Xbox’s uncertain future, this episode looks at where some of gaming’s biggest franchises are headed next. 0:00 Intro 0:30 Update 15:07 GTA 6 Exclusive Preview https://tinyurl.com/4c84zf2n  41:10 The PS5 hacking scene https://tinyurl.com/mrr2v7xk  51:42 Bungie Is ‘Not Done With Destiny’ https://tinyurl.com/avep8f5a  1:00:37 Microsoft Hands Halo to Activision https://tinyurl.com/y3yk8aym  1:25:02 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week on the M2 Podcast, we dive into another wave of GTA 6 leaks, including alleged gameplay and map footage, threats against Rockstar, and the growing debate over digital-only gaming. We also discuss Mattel launching its own game studio to turn brands like Barbie, Hot Wheels, and UNO into gaming experiences, while a former Saber writer claims she was replaced by ChatGPT during development of Rideshare ‘Stimulator’, reigniting the debate over AI in game development. Finally, we look ahead to Gamescom 2026 and the huge lineup of reveals, gameplay demos, and announcements expected from Xbox and some of gaming's biggest studios. 0:00 Intro 0:40 Updates 10:52 GTA 6 Suffers Second Day of Leaks https://tinyurl.com/bde8unpp  21:14 Mattel launches Mattel Game Studios https://tinyurl.com/mwjv4u6r  26:40 Saber writer claims she was replaced by ChatGPT https://tinyurl.com/yc6vbyyz  34:20 gamescom 2026: Schedule of the Biggest Gaming Event https://tinyurl.com/5xd5ay74  43:04 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week on the M2 Podcast, we break down one of the biggest business stories in gaming as Electronic Arts officially goes private following its acquisition by PIF, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners, and discuss what that could mean for the future of EA's biggest franchises and AI-driven game development. We also dive into the surprising success of Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, which has become one of 2026's best-selling games 14 years after its original release, proving that nostalgia remains one of gaming's strongest forces. Plus, we explore why great indie games are becoming harder to discover in today's algorithm-driven marketplace, and discuss leaked Xbox roadmap details that hint at expanded backwards compatibility, Xbox 360 support on PC, and long-awaited disc-to-digital features that could reshape game preservation over the next few years. 0:00 Intro 1:04 Update 11:26 EA Announces Completion of Acquisition https://tinyurl.com/2wwf4xk5  23:42 Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 Is One of 2026's Best Selling Games https://tinyurl.com/52b8mcmu  32:41 The industry makes great games https://tinyurl.com/mr2kja7z  50:44 Xbox's Plans For Backwards Compatibility https://tinyurl.com/bdf5j34j  1:01:15 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week on the M2 Podcast, we break down one of the biggest shifts in gaming history as PlayStation confirms the end of physical game discs in 2028 and rumors suggest Xbox could be following the same path, leaving Nintendo as the last major champion of physical media. We also dive into the incredible discovery of 97 previously unknown Super Mario Bros./Duck Hunt NES cartridges hidden away in a Wisconsin warehouse, discuss Nexus Mods' ambitious vision to revolutionize the modding ecosystem, examine growing concerns over restrictive side-project clauses affecting game developers and creativity, and close with EA's record $38.6 million CEO compensation package following a year of franchise success, AI adoption, and studio layoffs. Whether you're into retro collecting, industry business, PC modding, or the future of game ownership, this episode has something for every gamer. 0:00 Intro 0:58 Updates 16:23 Unreleased Version of Super Mario Discovered in a Warehouse https://tinyurl.com/pvaf8s4p  30:56 Nexus Mods owners reflect on modding hassle https://tinyurl.com/4cav3jnt  40:32 Developers discuss the pain of side work clauses https://tinyurl.com/4syepk89  1:03:19 EA boss awarded $38.6M https://tinyurl.com/3ru2r9nj  1:13:37 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week on the M2 Podcast, we break down one of the wildest weeks in gaming. We discuss Discord's massive moderation failure that mistakenly banned thousands of users for sharing innocent Minecraft and chessboard screenshots, Nintendo's growing strategy of aligning game releases with its blockbuster movie universe, and Microsoft's sweeping Xbox restructuring that includes 3,200 layoffs as the company fights to reset its gaming business. We also examine Hasbro's changing gaming ambitions after writing down $56 million in canceled projects and what it says about the risks of AAA game development in today's industry. Join us as we separate the headlines from the hype and explore what these stories mean for gamers and the future of the industry. 0:00 Intro 1:30 Updates 7:17 Discord Banned 8,000 Users https://tinyurl.com/9uzedcnt  16:32 Nintendo games were created with the Mario movies in mind https://tinyurl.com/3kjf9cdj  26:43 Xbox Boss Announces 3,200 Layoffs https://tinyurl.com/4hx4xdnd  43:45 Hasbro’s Big Gaming Strategy Is Falling Apart https://tinyurl.com/mvb25b3f  59:50 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week on the M2 Podcast, we dive into one of the biggest shifts the gaming industry has seen in years. We discuss the lawsuit accusing Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron of manipulating RAM supply and how soaring memory costs are driving up prices for Xbox consoles, PCs, and gaming hardware across the board. We also break down the growing fight over digital ownership as publishers argue private game servers are piracy while consumer advocates push to preserve purchased games. Then we examine Sony's decision to end physical PlayStation game discs in 2028, Microsoft's rumored all-digital Xbox future, and whether Nintendo could become the last major platform keeping physical games alive. It's a deep dive into where gaming is headed—and what these changes mean for players, collectors, and the future of game ownership.  0:00 Intro 0:50 Updates 06:50 RAM manufacturers have been sued https://tinyurl.com/5rhbyn3v  16:25 The video game industry told lawmakers private servers are illegal piracy https://tinyurl.com/2e7z5nfa  29:30 disc production ending in January 2028 for PlayStation consoles https://tinyurl.com/k3t6x7m9  38:40 Nintendo May Be The Last Bastion Of Physical Games https://tinyurl.com/43w3eskm  49:30 Outro  LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week on the M2 Podcast, we break down Microsoft's shocking Xbox price increases that push the Series X to nearly $800 and what it means for the future of console gaming. We also dive into Rockstar's controversial GTA 6 Ultimate Edition, where exclusive in-game shops are locked behind a $100 price tag, sparking debate across the gaming community. Plus, Epic Games reveals it has paid over $1 billion to creators through Fortnite's Unreal Editor ecosystem, highlighting the growing power of user-generated content. Finally, we discuss Valve's new Steam Machine, its premium design, console-level performance, and whether PC gaming may become the best alternative as console prices continue to climb. Join us as we explore the changing economics of gaming and what these industry shifts mean for players going forward.  0:00 Intro 1:55 Update 8:52 Microsoft Announces Price Rises for Xbox Series X and S https://tinyurl.com/2j4x5623  23:38 Epic Games Has Paid Out Over $1 Billion to Indie Creators https://tinyurl.com/ynkzf6ht  28:49 ‘GTA 6’ Is Putting In-Game Stores Behind A $100 Paywall https://tinyurl.com/2ff4yvjf  41:13 Steam Machine: Beautiful Hardware, Console Performance https://tinyurl.com/3r742r73  59:00 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week on the M2 Podcast, we break down one of the biggest weeks in gaming news. We discuss reports that Xbox may have already planned to split from Ninja Theory despite revealing Senua at the Xbox Games Showcase, raising questions about Microsoft's studio strategy. We also take a look at Empulse, the new Titanfall-inspired shooter hoping to win back player trust after the rocky launch of Splitgate 2. On the industry side, Capcom reveals why its team-first development philosophy has fueled one of gaming's biggest success stories, and we debate whether other publishers should follow suit. Finally, we dive into the massive anticipation surrounding Grand Theft Auto VI as Rockstar officially announces preorder dates, setting the stage for what could become the biggest game launch in entertainment history. Join us as we separate the hype from reality and explore what these stories mean for the future of gaming.  0:00 Intro 0:51 Updates 11:54 Report: Xbox Planned To 'Sunset Or Split With' Ninja Theory  https://tinyurl.com/3x2vz7kw  23:11 We’re never getting Titanfall 3 but the next best thing is here https://tinyurl.com/mrywfzte  34:40 Capcom: Betting On Teams Instead Of Visionaries Changed The Company https://tinyurl.com/e6shva38  45:11 Rockstar confirms when GTA 6 preorders go live https://tinyurl.com/4by79dv2  58:08 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week on the M2 Podcast, we break down one of the biggest weeks in gaming as Summer Game Fest, Xbox Showcase, and Nintendo Direct all brought major heat. We dive into Xbox’s stacked lineup featuring Persona 6, Spyro: A Realm Beyond, Gears of War: E-Day, and a first look at Modern Warfare 4’s DMZ mode, while Nintendo shocked fans with the long-rumored Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake, Kingdom Hearts 4, and a loaded Switch 2 roadmap. We also recap Summer Game Fest’s biggest reveals, from Resident Evil Veronica and Final Fantasy VII Revelation to TMNT: The Last Ronin, Guild Wars 3, and the surprise return of Cuphead. With nonstop reveals and major franchises making a comeback, we ask the big question: are we entering gaming’s next golden era? 0:00 Intro 0:37 Update 12:18 Everything Announced at Summer Game Fest 2026 https://tinyurl.com/2tw8k3xj 34:51 Everything Announced at Nintendo Direct June 2026 https://tinyurl.com/mra3d36j  53:38 Everything Announced at Xbox Games Showcase 2026 https://tinyurl.com/mr3buu3k  01:03:50 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week on the podcast, we dive into Embracer Group’s redemption arc—or at least its attempt at one—as CEO Phil Rogers asks gamers and developers to trust the company again after years of studio closures, layoffs, and controversial acquisitions, while still leaving the door open for future buyouts. We also break down the growing movement inside the Destiny 2 community as players rally to shatter concurrent player records in a last-ditch message to Sony and Bungie following news that major support for the game is ending. Plus, we unpack the biggest reveals from PlayStation’s June State of Play, including God of War: Laufey, Marvel’s Wolverine, and surprise sequels, before looking ahead to the packed Summer Game Fest 2026 schedule and the announcements that could define the next year of gaming. 0:00 Intro 1:07 Updates 13:09 CEO Wants You All To Trust Embracer https://tinyurl.com/2wym47s9  21:14 ‘Destiny 2’ Players Try To Break Playercount https://tinyurl.com/mr2bp6dc  32:48 PlayStation's State of Play June 2026 https://tinyurl.com/yrfzcc92  1:05:30 Summer Game Fest Complete 2026 guide https://tinyurl.com/bbb63xr7  1:17:21 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week on the podcast, we break down one of the biggest surprises in gaming as The Witcher 3 gets a brand-new expansion, Songs of the Past, a full 11 years after launch—raising questions about what it means for The Witcher 4 timeline and CD Projekt Red’s long-term strategy. We also dive into Valve’s controversial Steam Deck price hike, discussing whether the beloved handheld is pricing itself out of its sweet spot and what it could mean for the future of the rumored Steam Machine. Then, we explore Warhorse Studios’ ambitious open-world Lord of the Rings RPG, why Kingdom Come: Deliverance fans should be excited, and whether this could finally be the immersive Middle-earth game fans have always wanted. Finally, we close with 007: First Light, the highest-rated James Bond game in nearly three decades, and whether IO Interactive may have just built the future of Bond gaming. 0:00 Intro 0:41 Update 15:08 ‘The Witcher 3’ Revealed Expansion https://tinyurl.com/27ntd8tu  25:55 Steam Deck Price Increase Announced by Valve https://tinyurl.com/4m2apnmf  38:53 Lord of the Rings Open World RPG https://tinyurl.com/3h935kf8  47:21 007: First Light is the Highest-Rated James Bond Game in 30 Years https://tinyurl.com/fw3tssd6  55:18 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

In this episode, we break down Bungie’s ambitious long-term roadmap for Marathon as the studio attempts to reverse declining player numbers with new PvE modes, casual-friendly experiences, and major progression overhauls aimed at broadening the game’s audience. We also dive into Ubisoft turning Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced into a real-world $500,000 pirate treasure hunt, Rockstar fans speculating about an imminent GTA 6 trailer after Best Buy’s pre-order leak, and Blizzard officially bringing Overwatch heroes into Fortnite in one of the biggest crossover events of the year. From extraction shooters evolving under pressure to gaming’s growing obsession with live-service engagement and blockbuster marketing spectacles, this episode covers the biggest shifts shaping the industry right now.  0:00 Intro 1:08 Update 8:28 Marathon Reveals Blueprint https://tinyurl.com/cyrej3up  17:39 Black Flag Resynced Has a Real-Life Treasure Hunt https://tinyurl.com/4mc76zbf  32:18 GTA 6 pre-orders next week https://tinyurl.com/3ppm4u4f  40:16 Overwatch is officially coming to Fortnite https://tinyurl.com/nhdtx42z  50:46 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta

This week’s episode dives into a massive shakeup across the gaming industry, from Microsoft rolling out a new controller-focused “Xbox Mode” for Windows 11 while simultaneously shutting down Copilot AI development on Xbox in an effort to refocus the brand. We also break down Valve’s chaotic Steam Controller launch, the new anti-scalper reservation system, and why demand for PC gaming hardware is exploding again. On the culture side, Twitch unexpectedly changes its rules to allow randomized video chat games like Omoggle, igniting a bizarre new era of livestream “mogging” competitions and viral creator moments. The episode explores how platform holders are scrambling to redefine gaming ecosystems, community engagement, and hardware strategy in 2026’s rapidly shifting industry landscape. 0:00 Intro 1:25 Updates 14:56 Valve commits to restocking its Steam Controller https://tinyurl.com/5cp6ztbs  24:38 Steam Machine Price Reportedly Leaked https://tinyurl.com/muc26aub  36:49 Streamers Can Mog Each Other https://tinyurl.com/4pz3ydhw  58:44 Microsoft ends Copilot AI https://tinyurl.com/5nje5rz4  1:12:15 Outro LEAVE A LIKE and a comment, thanks for watching/listening! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PODCAST                ►► https://anchor.fm/m2podcast AMAZON Music         ► https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/091902c3-b83b-487c-8fe7-4c96787434fe/M2-Podcast APPLE                          ► https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1531832410 BREAKER                     ► https://www.breaker.audio/m2-podcast-2 CASTRO                       ► https://castro.fm/podcast/6f69d373-d879-46d9-9f1c-bcf7c4bf1741 GOOGLE                       ► https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8zNTYwNWZiMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== OVERCAST                   ► https://overcast.fm/itunes1531832410/m2-podcast POCKETCASTS           ► https://pca.st/5jghvf6e RADIOPUBLIC             ► https://radiopublic.com/m2-podcast-GMZkY4 SPOTIFY                      ► https://open.spotify.com/show/2VedhO03IRoHERJqF6Sy87 STICHER                      ► https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/m2-podcast TUNEIN                        ► http://tun.in/pj3ZI #podcast  JOIN THE DISCORD!  ►► https://discord.gg/Kp5Gre6 KyleHeath Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjkheath TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/kyleheath TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/mrjkheath YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/MrJkheath MadMikeWillEatU Socials: TIKTOK           ►► https://www.tiktok.com/@madmikewilleatu TWITCH          ►► https://www.twitch.tv/madmikewilleatu/about TWITTER        ►► https://twitter.com/madmikewilleatu YOUTUBE       ►► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1MoIvzyMDvH_5Ta