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Boss Rush Banter: We Need More Games Like Blue Prince
Games like Blue Prince are a reminder of why indie games can be so great. The mysteries and puzzles invite players to keep a journal to progress through the adventure—just like the old days!
READ MORE
Boss Rush Banter: Are Pure Turn-Based RPGs Obsolete?
In a time when turn-based battles can have quick time events and perfect parries, does the old menu-based formula still hold up?
READ MORE
Boss Rush Banter: With No Future Ownership and No Other Alternative Has Sony Become the Villain to the Video Game Multiverse?
What can we do on our end to let Sony and the industry know that Physical media is relevant and important to gamers.
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Boss Rush Banter: How will Brain Chips Impact Gaming?
With brain chips going into clinical trials, what is it like to play games on them? What will neural gaming look like?
How YOU Can Protect Physical Video Game Media in a Digital-First Future
In the aftermath of Sony’s announcement, here are six ways YOU can help preserve physical video games.
Boss Rush Banter: Persona 5 Royal’s Biggest Strength Is Its Immersion
Persona 5 Royal does a lot right, but it is the immersion the game offers that ties it all together.
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Latest Podcast Episodes
Game Ownership, Xbox’s Massive Reset, & PlayStation Kills Discs – Boss Rush Podcast – A Podcast about Video Games
Support Boss Rush on Patreon.The video game industry is facing an unprecedented identity crisis as Xbox undergoes a historic restructuring and PlayStation prepares to kill physical media entirely. This week on the Boss Rush Podcast, Corey Dirrig, LeRon Dawkins, and Edward Varnell break down the devastating news of Xbox cutting over 3,200 jobs, divesting major studios like Double Fine and Ninja Theory, and severely gutting legendary teams at id Software and Obsidian. Meanwhile, Sony has confirmed that new games will stop shipping on discs starting in January 2028, paving the way for an all-digital PlayStation 6 that has creators like Hideo Kojima and fans terrified for the future of game preservation. Corey, LeRon, and Edward discuss what these massive corporate pivots mean for developers, player trust, and the future of the hobbies we love.This and more on the Boss Rush Podcast, part of the Boss Rush Network. Email us your questions and topic ideas to the podcast here.Join the Boss Rush Network Community Discord here.Follow the Boss Rush Network on X/Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and Instagram.Thanks for your continued support of the Boss Rush Podcast and the Boss Rush Network! If you listen on podcast services, leave us a 5 star rating and a nice review or comment. If you're listening to this episode on YouTube, subscribe to the channel, like the video, leave a comment, and hit the bell so you don't miss an episode posting. Visit our website for more great content from Boss Rush and our community.
EXP: Xbox's Business Aims to be Efficient, Small, and Discless – Nintendo Pow Block Podcast – Now Your Podcasting with Power!
Email your questions to the podcast here. With Sony ending PlayStation disc releases in 2028, reports suggest that Xbox’s next console, Project Helix, could also launch without a disc drive. This week on Expansion Pass, Edward Varnell and Corey Dirrig discuss how Nintendo may soon stand alone as the biggest supporter of physical game releases. While the Switch 2 has introduced Game-Key Cards, Nintendo continues to release its own first-party titles on full cartridges, and physical sales remain a significant part of its business. If PlayStation and Xbox fully embrace an all-digital future, Nintendo could carve out a unique advantage by continuing to offer collectible, shareable, and preservable physical games for fans who still value owning their purchases.Join our Communities:Join the Boss Rush Network Community Discord. Join the Boss Rush Network Facebook Group.Follow Nintendo Pow Block on Social Media: Nintendo Pow Block Podcast: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram, Threads, FacebookYouTube, Twitch.TVFollow the Boss Rush Network: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram, Threads, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitch.TVFollow our Hosts: Edward Varnell, Cofounder of Boss Rush Media and host of Nintendo Pow Block. X/Twitter, Bluesky, InstagramCorey Dirrig, Cofounder and CEO of Boss Rush Media and host of the Boss Rush Podcast, Nintendo Pow Block, Xbox Casuals, and Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast. X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram, Threads, Mastodon, Facebook, LinkedInStephanie Klimov is the Vice President of Media and Developer Relations of The Boss Rush Network, the cohost of The Boss Rush Podcast, and leads the Boss Rush Spotlight initiative. X/Twitter, Instagram, Bluesky, LinkedInSupport Boss Rush Network:Support Boss Rush on Patreon and buy merch on our Store. Subscribe to Boss Rush on YouTube and visit our website at BossRush.net for more great content.Thanks for Your Continued Support!Thank you for supporting Nintendo Pow Block! If you’re listening on podcast platforms, leave us a five-star rating and a review. If you’re watching on YouTube, subscribe, like, comment, and hit the bell so you never miss an episode. Your support means the world—see you next time on Nintendo Pow Block!
Asha Sharma Continues the XBOX Reset with 3200 Layoffs and 4 Studios Out – Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast
Email the podcast your questions or topics: towercasuals@gmail.com The move to digital downloads is changing the way we buy, own, and play video games, and it has many players wondering if physical games are slowly becoming a thing of the past. In this episode of Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney dive into the ongoing debate between physical and digital media, exploring the benefits and drawbacks of each. They discuss the reality of digital ownership, what happens when online stores shut down, and why many gamers are concerned about preserving their collections. At the same time, they look at the convenience of instant downloads, digital game libraries, and subscription services that have made gaming more accessible than ever. They also examine how Xbox and PlayStation are accelerating the industry’s move toward an all-digital future and share practical tips for protecting your game library, no matter which format you prefer.This and more on Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. Join the Tower Casuals Community DiscordJoin the Tower Casuals Podcast Clan
Fire Emblem Returns & Xenoblade Genesis Shock! (with KABIPLAYS) – Boss Rush Gamescast – A Gameplay Discussion Podcast
What is the ultimate Joker origin story, and could Fire Emblem and Xenoblade be cooking up their biggest entries yet? In this episode of the Boss Rush Games Cast, Patrick Klein, Taylor, and Stoy Jovic welcome special guest KABIPLAYS (@KabiPlays) to dive deep into the massive summer video game showcases. The crew shares their honest thoughts on the Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave reveal—debating its time-traveling mechanics and multi-route setup—and unpacks the massive hype surrounding Xenoblade Genesis. Plus, Kabi shares her journey from playing Duck Hunt on the NES to sinking 1,000 hours into extraction shooters, while the team takes a detour to debate the best DC Jokers, discuss the Gears of War: E-Day "bro-mance," and question Nintendo’s controversial $70 Switch 2 definitive editions.This and more on Gamescast! Join the Boss Rush Network Community DiscordFollow Boss Rush Network: Follow Boss Rush Network on X/Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and InstagramSupport Boss Rush Network:Support Boss Rush on Patreon and buy merch on our Store. Subscribe to Boss Rush on YouTube and visit our website at BossRush.net for more great content.
Widespread Bungie Layoffs & The Impending Xbox Bloodbath – Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast
The team at Bungie, the studios at Xbox, and the video game industry continue to face one of its biggest turning points ever.This week on Tower Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney break down the major changes affecting both Bungie and the ongoing changes at Xbox. After Destiny 2 received its final planned service updates, Bungie announced nearly 300 layoffs, leaving Marathon as the studio’s primary focus under Sony. At the same time, Microsoft is undergoing major restructuring under new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma. Reports suggest several well-known Xbox studios, including Ninja Theory and Double Fine, could face closure while Microsoft also introduces a $150 price increase for Xbox consoles. Josh and Corey discuss what led to these decisions, how Xbox Game Pass fits into Microsoft’s long-term strategy, and what this wave of layoffs and restructuring could mean for the future of the gaming industry.This and more on Tower Casuals and Xbox Casuals.Join the Tower Casuals Community DiscordJoin the Tower Casuals Podcast Clan
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Features
Boss Rush Banter: What Should the Next Star Fox Game Look Like?
Numbers are starting to roll in for Star Fox’s first week of launch. According to Famitsu, this Switch 2 title was the highest selling game in Japan for the week of June 22nd at 41,680 retail copies. Star Fox also topped physical game sales in the UK. These are promising numbers, and the possibility for…
Boss Rush Banter: It’s All About Timing With Your Gaming Backlog
Working through a video game backlog can be difficult. Timing can be the key to finishing it.
Boss Rush Banter: Sony’s Decision to Cease Physical Disc Production in 2028 for New Games is a Sign of the End Times
Sony announces taking a huge step away from physical media. Are we approached the end times for physical video games?
Boss Rush Banter: Xbox Game Pass Is Still the Best Deal in Gaming
Despite an outrageous price increase, Xbox Game Pass remains a great deal for gamers, particularly at the lower membership tiers.
Recent Reviews
BOOK REVIEW: The Unheld Is Western Horror with Deeply Moving Characters and Writing
We reviewed Luke Larkin’s debut novel The Unheld. The Western Horror novel is as beautiful as it is honest about the nature of trauma and loneliness. Check out our full review.
GAME REVIEW: The Gate Must Stand
The Gate Must Stand blends roguelite progression, tower defense, and action combat into an addictive strategy experience.
TV REVIEW: City Council of Darkness – Episode 13: A Symposium and a Song
In our penultimate episode of Dimension 20’s City Council of Darkness, our chaotic coterie lays their cards on the table and gather the supernatural forces of Purpee as we ramp up toward the Summer Solstice.
How To…
How to Build a Board Game Collection on a Budget
With prices on board games soaring, here are some places to get board games on the cheap.
Recent Posts
Boss Rush Banter: We Need More Games Like Blue Prince
Games like Blue Prince are a reminder of why indie games can be so great. The mysteries and puzzles invite players to keep a journal to progress through the adventure—just like the old days!
EXPANSION PASS: Xbox’s Business Aims to be Efficient, Small, and Discless
This week on Expansion Pass, Edward Varnell and Corey Dirrig discuss how Nintendo may soon stand alone as the biggest supporter of physical game releases.
Boss Rush Banter: Are Pure Turn-Based RPGs Obsolete?
In a time when turn-based battles can have quick time events and perfect parries, does the old menu-based formula still hold up?
NINTENDO POW BLOCK EPISODE 502: Shantae Returns, New Pokemon LEGOs, and the State of Xbox’s Studios
This week on Nintendo Pow Block, Edward Varnell, Corey Dirrig, and Stephanie Klimov discuss the revised Switch 2 for Europe with replaceable batteries, Nintendo’s plans for classic games, Mario and Donkey Kong collectibles, new Pokémon LEGO sets, and the next Shantae.
Boss Rush Banter: With No Future Ownership and No Other Alternative Has Sony Become the Villain to the Video Game Multiverse?
What can we do on our end to let Sony and the industry know that Physical media is relevant and important to gamers.
BOSS RUSH PODCAST EPISODE 323: Game Ownership, Xbox’s Massive Reset, & PlayStation Kills Discs
This week on the Boss Rush Podcast, Corey Dirrig, LeRon Dawkins, and Edward Varnell break down the devastating news of Xbox cutting over 3,200 jobs, divesting major studios like Double Fine and Ninja Theory, and severely gutting legendary teams at id Software and Obsidian.
COMIC REVIEW: The Trillion Dollar Kid #1
The Trillion Dollar Kid #1, released earlier this year. Who is he, and is he worth the read?
TV REVIEW: City Council of Darkness – Episode 14: An Undead Denouement
The coterie and their allies clash with powerful adversaries for dominion over Purpee in this final episode of Dimension 20’s City Council of Darkness.
XBOX Casuals Episode 65: Asha Sharma Continues the XBOX Reset with 3200 Layoffs and 4 Studios Out
In this episode of Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney dive into the ongoing debate between physical and digital media, exploring the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Dustpile Turns Gaming Backlog Into a Tinder-Style Swipe Session
Dustpile is a free web app from Dumbbell Games that helps players tackle their ever-growing gaming backlogs with a Tinder-style swipe interface.
Boss Rush Banter: How will Brain Chips Impact Gaming?
With brain chips going into clinical trials, what is it like to play games on them? What will neural gaming look like?
BOSS RUSH GAMESCAST EPISODE 17: Fire Emblem Returns & Xenoblade Genesis Shock! (with KABIPLAYS)
In this episode of the Boss Rush Games Cast, Patrick Klein, Taylor, and Stoy Jovic welcome special guest KABIPLAYS (@KabiPlays) to dive deep into the massive summer video game showcases.
NINTENDO POW BLOCK EPISODE 501: Rumored Metroid Ravenous Leaks for Nintendo Switch 2
In this episode of Nintendo Pow Block, Edward Varnell and Corey Dirrig, discuss what this leak could mean for Nintendo’s future lineup, alongside discussion of Shigeru Miyamoto teasing new characters beyond Mario and Zelda, the high-priced Super Mario Bros. Wonder Elephant Mario statue, and the ongoing success story of Cyberpunk 2077 on Nintendo Switch 2.
How YOU Can Protect Physical Video Game Media in a Digital-First Future
In the aftermath of Sony’s announcement, here are six ways YOU can help preserve physical video games.
Boss Rush Banter: Persona 5 Royal’s Biggest Strength Is Its Immersion
Persona 5 Royal does a lot right, but it is the immersion the game offers that ties it all together.
BOSS RUSH PODCAST EPISODE 322: PlayStation and Xbox Pull the Plug on Physical Games
On this episode of the Boss Rush Podcast, Corey Dirrig and LeRon Dawkins break down Sony’s decision to end physical PlayStation game releases beginning in 2028, what Microsoft’s rumored Disc2Digital feature could mean for physical game collectors, and why the PlayStation 6 may launch at a much higher price than gamers expect.
GAME REVIEW: The Gate Must Stand
The Gate Must Stand blends roguelite progression, tower defense, and action combat into an addictive strategy experience.
BOOK REVIEW: The Unheld Is Western Horror with Deeply Moving Characters and Writing
We reviewed Luke Larkin’s debut novel The Unheld. The Western Horror novel is as beautiful as it is honest about the nature of trauma and loneliness. Check out our full review.
PAX East 2026: Interview With Co-founder of Perfect Garbage Studios about Murder Mystery Farming Sim Grave Seasons
Discover the intriguing world of Grave Seasons, a unique murder mystery farming sim launching August 14, 2026. Wishlist it on Steam today!
TV REVIEW: City Council of Darkness – Episode 13: A Symposium and a Song
In our penultimate episode of Dimension 20’s City Council of Darkness, our chaotic coterie lays their cards on the table and gather the supernatural forces of Purpee as we ramp up toward the Summer Solstice.
Dead by Daylight Introduces Its First Indigenous Survivor in “The Life Road” Chapter
Dead by Daylight has introduced its first Indigenous Survivor in The Life Road chapter, featuring contributions from Indigenous actor Dallas Goldtooth.
Boss Rush Banter: What Should the Next Star Fox Game Look Like?
Numbers are starting to roll in for Star Fox’s first week of launch. According to Famitsu, this Switch 2 title was the highest selling game in Japan for the week of June 22nd at 41,680 retail copies. Star Fox also topped physical game sales in the UK. These are promising numbers, and the possibility for…
PAX East 2026: Interview With Team Crescendo’s Creative Director About Memoria Wake
At PAX East 2026, Boss Rush interviewed the creative director Cole about Team Crescendo debut game, Memoria Wake that is in current development.
Boss Rush Banter: It’s All About Timing With Your Gaming Backlog
Working through a video game backlog can be difficult. Timing can be the key to finishing it.
Boss Rush Banter: Sony’s Decision to Cease Physical Disc Production in 2028 for New Games is a Sign of the End Times
Sony announces taking a huge step away from physical media. Are we approached the end times for physical video games?
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Game Ownership, Xbox’s Massive Reset, & PlayStation Kills Discs – Boss Rush Podcast – A Podcast about Video Games
Support Boss Rush on Patreon.The video game industry is facing an unprecedented identity crisis as Xbox undergoes a historic restructuring and PlayStation prepares to kill physical media entirely. This week on the Boss Rush Podcast, Corey Dirrig, LeRon Dawkins, and Edward Varnell break down the devastating news of Xbox cutting over 3,200 jobs, divesting major studios like Double Fine and Ninja Theory, and severely gutting legendary teams at id Software and Obsidian. Meanwhile, Sony has confirmed that new games will stop shipping on discs starting in January 2028, paving the way for an all-digital PlayStation 6 that has creators like Hideo Kojima and fans terrified for the future of game preservation. Corey, LeRon, and Edward discuss what these massive corporate pivots mean for developers, player trust, and the future of the hobbies we love.This and more on the Boss Rush Podcast, part of the Boss Rush Network. Email us your questions and topic ideas to the podcast here.Join the Boss Rush Network Community Discord here.Follow the Boss Rush Network on X/Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and Instagram.Thanks for your continued support of the Boss Rush Podcast and the Boss Rush Network! If you listen on podcast services, leave us a 5 star rating and a nice review or comment. If you're listening to this episode on YouTube, subscribe to the channel, like the video, leave a comment, and hit the bell so you don't miss an episode posting. Visit our website for more great content from Boss Rush and our community.
EXP: Xbox's Business Aims to be Efficient, Small, and Discless – Nintendo Pow Block Podcast – Now Your Podcasting with Power!
Email your questions to the podcast here. With Sony ending PlayStation disc releases in 2028, reports suggest that Xbox’s next console, Project Helix, could also launch without a disc drive. This week on Expansion Pass, Edward Varnell and Corey Dirrig discuss how Nintendo may soon stand alone as the biggest supporter of physical game releases. While the Switch 2 has introduced Game-Key Cards, Nintendo continues to release its own first-party titles on full cartridges, and physical sales remain a significant part of its business. If PlayStation and Xbox fully embrace an all-digital future, Nintendo could carve out a unique advantage by continuing to offer collectible, shareable, and preservable physical games for fans who still value owning their purchases.Join our Communities:Join the Boss Rush Network Community Discord. Join the Boss Rush Network Facebook Group.Follow Nintendo Pow Block on Social Media: Nintendo Pow Block Podcast: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram, Threads, FacebookYouTube, Twitch.TVFollow the Boss Rush Network: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram, Threads, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitch.TVFollow our Hosts: Edward Varnell, Cofounder of Boss Rush Media and host of Nintendo Pow Block. X/Twitter, Bluesky, InstagramCorey Dirrig, Cofounder and CEO of Boss Rush Media and host of the Boss Rush Podcast, Nintendo Pow Block, Xbox Casuals, and Tower Casuals: The Destiny Podcast. X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram, Threads, Mastodon, Facebook, LinkedInStephanie Klimov is the Vice President of Media and Developer Relations of The Boss Rush Network, the cohost of The Boss Rush Podcast, and leads the Boss Rush Spotlight initiative. X/Twitter, Instagram, Bluesky, LinkedInSupport Boss Rush Network:Support Boss Rush on Patreon and buy merch on our Store. Subscribe to Boss Rush on YouTube and visit our website at BossRush.net for more great content.Thanks for Your Continued Support!Thank you for supporting Nintendo Pow Block! If you’re listening on podcast platforms, leave us a five-star rating and a review. If you’re watching on YouTube, subscribe, like, comment, and hit the bell so you never miss an episode. Your support means the world—see you next time on Nintendo Pow Block!
Asha Sharma Continues the XBOX Reset with 3200 Layoffs and 4 Studios Out – Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast
Email the podcast your questions or topics: towercasuals@gmail.com The move to digital downloads is changing the way we buy, own, and play video games, and it has many players wondering if physical games are slowly becoming a thing of the past. In this episode of Xbox Casuals, Corey Dirrig and Josh Finney dive into the ongoing debate between physical and digital media, exploring the benefits and drawbacks of each. They discuss the reality of digital ownership, what happens when online stores shut down, and why many gamers are concerned about preserving their collections. At the same time, they look at the convenience of instant downloads, digital game libraries, and subscription services that have made gaming more accessible than ever. They also examine how Xbox and PlayStation are accelerating the industry’s move toward an all-digital future and share practical tips for protecting your game library, no matter which format you prefer.This and more on Xbox Casuals: An Xbox Podcast. Join the Tower Casuals Community DiscordJoin the Tower Casuals Podcast Clan
Fire Emblem Returns & Xenoblade Genesis Shock! (with KABIPLAYS) – Boss Rush Gamescast – A Gameplay Discussion Podcast
What is the ultimate Joker origin story, and could Fire Emblem and Xenoblade be cooking up their biggest entries yet? In this episode of the Boss Rush Games Cast, Patrick Klein, Taylor, and Stoy Jovic welcome special guest KABIPLAYS (@KabiPlays) to dive deep into the massive summer video game showcases. The crew shares their honest thoughts on the Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave reveal—debating its time-traveling mechanics and multi-route setup—and unpacks the massive hype surrounding Xenoblade Genesis. Plus, Kabi shares her journey from playing Duck Hunt on the NES to sinking 1,000 hours into extraction shooters, while the team takes a detour to debate the best DC Jokers, discuss the Gears of War: E-Day "bro-mance," and question Nintendo’s controversial $70 Switch 2 definitive editions.This and more on Gamescast! Join the Boss Rush Network Community DiscordFollow Boss Rush Network: Follow Boss Rush Network on X/Twitter, Bluesky, Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and InstagramSupport Boss Rush Network:Support Boss Rush on Patreon and buy merch on our Store. Subscribe to Boss Rush on YouTube and visit our website at BossRush.net for more great content.
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