Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Pixel Parents | A Video Game Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Episode 130 - Fixing PlayStation & Marvel’s Wolverine - Pixel Parents Podcast | 18 sept. 2026 | 01:46:09 | |
PlayStation is still the default place to play for millions of people. But after an uneven PS5 generation, rising prices and a failed live service push, Sony appears to have lost some of its identity. We look at what PlayStation still gets right, where its confidence has gone and the changes we would make before PS6. That includes more creative games, better communication, new franchises and a return for the studios and ideas that once made PlayStation feel different. Liam also shares his early verdict on Marvel’s Wolverine. It is polished, violent and refreshingly linear, but does it justify its £70 price? Elsewhere, Scott continues his Onimusha Way of the Sword obsession, Liam gives The Blood of Dawnwalker his final verdict and Folk Hero earns the highest possible recommendation. It is ideal for playing on the cludgie. And of course, we’re back in the dock with this week’s Gamer court! Subscribe for weekly gaming discussions from two adult gamer parents. https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code BMB591ST2JKNHXWE #GamingPodcast #TheWitcher3 #GamingPodcast — CHAPTERS 00:00 This week on Pixel Parents 00:48 Scott returns 04:38 Onimusha Way of the Sword 09:27 The Blood of Dawnwalker review 21:27 Folk Hero review 27:24 Finding time for Fire Emblem 29:25 The return of Solitaire 30:33 Marvel’s Wolverine impressions 50:56 Fixing PlayStation 52:19 Where PlayStation stands today 57:24 The identity of PS5 1:07:19 Revive Japan Studio and Bluepoint 1:11:50 PlayStation, Kojima and Physint 1:16:18 The live service problem 1:23:26 PlayStation needs to communicate 1:28:29 How PlayStation gets its confidence back 1:33:17 The exclusive PlayStation needs 1:37:06 Pixel Picks Replay 1:37:34 Gamer Court 1:41:20 Are gaming subscriptions essential? 1:44:23 Closing the show — Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com Follow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social Music & production by Sean Murray – barehandsdesigns.com
🎧 Listen on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394 💖 Join the FREE Patreon https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social 📺 Subscribe on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S ✉️ Email the show pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 129 - Gaming Opinions We Changed Mind About - Pixel Parents Podcast | 11 sept. 2026 | 01:05:22 | |
We all have gaming opinions that aged badly. Scott has six of them. In this solo episode, he admits he was wrong about Fortnite, game difficulty, digital ownership, Nintendo, Early Access and video game remakes. He also looks at how age, parenthood and limited free time have changed what he wants from games. Scott also shares his first impressions of Onimusha Way of the Sword, reacts to Nintendo’s Ocarina of Time remake and the latest Nintendo Direct, and discusses Xbox stepping in to publish Hideo Kojima’s Physint after PlayStation cancelled its involvement. #GamingPodcast #Onimusha #NintendoDirect Subscribe for weekly gaming discussions from two adult gamer parents. https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code BMB591ST2JKNHXWE #GamingPodcast #TheWitcher3 #GamingPodcast — CHAPTERS 00:00 Gaming opinions that aged badly 00:43 Scott takes over the podcast 03:08 Onimusha Way of the Sword impressions 14:57 The Legend of Zelda Direct 17:23 Ocarina of Time remake gameplay 22:13 Nintendo Direct reactions 24:37 Professor Layton and Metroid 29:18 Persona 4, Persona 6 and Kirby 31:45 Xbox saves Kojima’s Physint 34:09 Does the move actually matter? 36:33 PlayStation’s troubling direction 40:47 Gaming hot takes that went cold 43:08 Difficulty does not make a game better 45:34 Digital games won 47:58 Scott was wrong about Nintendo 50:21 Early Access and unfinished games 52:46 Remakes are not inherently lazy 55:13 Age and parenthood changed everything 57:38 September’s next big releases 01:02:23 Sign off --- Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com
New episodes every Friday. Listen on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload Listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394 Join the FREE Patreon https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social Subscribe on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S Email the show | |||
| Episode 128 - Which Older Games Deserve One More Expansion? - Pixel Parents Podcast | 04 sept. 2026 | 01:46:02 | |
Should developers stop abandoning successful single-player games after one expansion pass? The Witcher 3 is returning with Songs of the Past, giving players a reason to revisit Geralt’s world more than a decade later. This week, we ask which other finished games deserve the same treatment. Scott wants more Sekiro, Red Dead Redemption 2, Super Mario Odyssey and Days Gone. Liam makes the case for Uncharted: The Lost Legacy, Batman: Arkham Knight and another Bloodborne expansion. We also endure PlayStation’s latest State of Play, deliver our final thoughts on Starfield for Pixel Picks Replay and take Sonic the Hedgehog to Gamer Court. Which finished game deserves one more expansion? Let us know. Subscribe for weekly gaming discussions from two adult gamer parents. https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) Music licensed through Soundstripe. #GamingPodcast #TheWitcher3 #GamingPodcast — CHAPTERS 00:00 Which finished games deserve more DLC? 00:34 Scott returns after the sleep regression 05:45 What we’ve been playing 06:18 Scott finally plays Parasite Eve 11:29 Onimusha: Way of the Sword demo 15:05 Liam returns to Marvel Snap 16:14 A Plague Tale Legacy 18:04 Ghost of Yōtei platinum 19:30 The Blood of Dawnwalker first impressions 24:19 Surviving September’s new releases 29:36 PlayStation State of Play reactions 31:48 Final Fantasy VII Revelation 38:12 Until Dawn and Ghost of Yōtei updates 44:23 The State of Play verdict 45:48 Which games deserve one more expansion? 46:51 Why The Witcher 3 can return 54:31 Sekiro 55:09 Metal Gear Solid V 57:33 Red Dead Redemption 2 59:29 Uncharted: The Lost Legacy 01:03:35 Super Mario Odyssey 01:06:42 Batman: Arkham Knight 01:10:34 Days Gone 01:14:03 Bloodborne 01:20:56 Starfield Pixel Picks Replay 01:31:54 Gamer Court 01:33:42 Has Sonic ever had a good game? 01:38:12 Should gaming showcases happen once a year? 01:43:28 Sign-off --- Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394 💖 Join the FREE Patreon https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social 📺 Subscribe on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S ✉️ Email the show pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 127 - GTA VI Looks Incredible. But Can We Afford Next Gen?- Pixel Parents Podcast | 28 août 2026 | 01:09:21 | |
Has GTA VI finally shown us what this console generation can really do? GTA VI’s extended look may be the best demonstration yet of what the current console generation can achieve. Liam reacts to Rockstar’s 27-minute presentation, including the return to more methodical Red Dead Redemption 2-style gameplay, the extraordinary lighting and world detail, Jason and Lucia’s relationship, changes to the wanted system, new activities and the soundtrack. The presentation left him astonished, but it raised a larger question. If GTA VI can run on PS5 and Xbox Series X, what would make us buy another generation of consoles? With console, accessory and handheld prices continuing to rise, Liam admits that he may not buy the next PlayStation or Xbox at launch. Could a dedicated PlayStation handheld, cloud gaming or simply keeping the PS5 Pro offer a better alternative? We also look back at Gamescom and Opening Night Live, including Gears of War E Day, Warlock Dungeons & Dragons, Stage Tour, Final Fantasy VII Revelation and several hours that could have used a good edit. Elsewhere, Liam returns to Mad Max, Shadow of War and Marvel Snap. The Last of Us becomes September’s Pixel Picks Replay game, while Final Fantasy VII Remake and Rebirth face Gamer Court. Would you still buy a new console on day one, and what is the highest price you would accept? Follow for weekly gaming discussions from two adult gamer parents. https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) Music licensed through Soundstripe. #GTAVI #NextGenGaming #GamingPodcast — CHAPTERS 00:00 GTA VI and the future of gaming 00:27 Welcome to Pixel Parents 02:28 Liam’s new normal 04:47 Spider Man 2 deserves more respect 07:12 Returning to Shadow of War 09:36 Marvel Snap drags Liam back 12:03 GTA VI extended look reaction 14:17 Red Dead Redemption 2 style gameplay 16:44 Vice City looks astonishing 19:02 Wanted levels and open world activities 21:25 GTA VI soundtrack and final verdict 23:45 Opening Night Live was far too long 26:09 How to fix Geoff Keighley’s showcases 28:30 The best games from Opening Night Live 30:50 Final Fantasy VII Revelation 33:09 Xbox gets something right 35:34 A £1,299 gaming handheld 37:52 What should next gen gaming offer? 40:17 Did this generation ever truly begin? 42:41 Can consoles keep chasing PC? 45:00 GTA VI finally fulfils the current generation 47:29 What price is too high? 49:53 Are exclusive games still enough? 52:17 Liam might skip the next console launch 54:41 The PlayStation handheld changes everything 57:07 Fighting the launch day FOMO 59:28 Would you still buy a console on day one? 01:01:29 September’s Pixel Picks Replay 01:03:55 Final Fantasy VII enters Gamer Court 01:05:53 The verdict Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394 💖 Join the FREE Patreon https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social 📺 Subscribe on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S ✉️ Email the show pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 126 - Where Gaming Fits When Life Gets Hard - Pixel Parents Podcast | 21 août 2026 | 01:44:16 | |
Where does gaming fit when life gets hard? After unexpectedly being made redundant, Liam found himself questioning whether he deserved to spend time playing games. It took a return to Spider-Man 2 to remind him that enjoying something during a difficult period does not mean ignoring what has happened. Scott also reflects on returning to Death Stranding, and why its message of simply putting one foot in front of the other meant so much to him. We discuss gaming as comfort, escapism and a small source of control when life feels uncertain. Games cannot solve serious problems, but sometimes they can help us feel a little more like ourselves. We also answer a listener question about how we find time to play as parents, catch up on the alleged GTA VI gameplay leak and return to Gamer Court. Elsewhere, Scott finishes The Legend of Zelda Twilight Princess, shares his impressions of Kynseed and continues his strange new life as a miner in Starfield. Where does gaming fit in your life when things become difficult? Subscribe for weekly gaming discussions from two adult gamer parents. https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) — CHAPTERS 00:00 Where gaming fits when life gets hard 01:51 Scott takes control 04:15 Surviving the sleep regression 10:12 Liam shares his difficult week 12:17 Returning to Spider Man 2 14:43 Twilight Princess is still the best Zelda 16:35 Kynseed impressions 20:17 Scott starts Starfield 24:02 Becoming Starfield’s most boring miner 30:33 The alleged GTA VI gameplay leak 34:07 Gaming leaks are ruining everything 43:40 How do we find time to play? 47:24 Gaming with a newborn 50:15 The rule of three 54:48 Gaming when life gets hard 56:48 Feeling like you do not deserve games 59:58 Gaming as therapy 01:03:36 Finding control when life feels uncertain 01:06:28 Death Stranding, grief and keeping on 01:10:30 Why Liam returned to Spider Man 01:15:26 Handheld gaming provides an escape 01:18:52 Can difficult memories ruin a game? 01:23:52 Do not suffer in silence 01:25:22 Pixel Picks Replay 01:25:52 Gamer Court 01:26:54 Was PlayStation’s live service strategy bad? 01:33:39 Gaming discourse has lost the plot 01:41:23 Closing the court Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394 💖 Join the FREE Patreon https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social 📺 Subscribe on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S ✉️ Email the show pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 125 - Fantasy Critic Predictions: 2026’s Biggest Games - Pixel Parents Podcast | 14 août 2026 | 01:38:28 | |
We’re predicting the review scores of 2026’s biggest upcoming games. Liam and Scott lock in their scores for GTA 6, Marvel’s Wolverine, Silent Hill Townfall, Fire Emblem Fortunes Weave, Control Resonant, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 4 and more. Before that, we share our early impressions of Marvel Tōkon Fighting Souls. Neither of us planned to buy it, but its accessible combat, brilliant presentation and love for Marvel won us over. Scott also begins Starfield for this month’s Pixel Picks Replay and brings Bethesda’s inventory management before Gamer Court. Which prediction do you think will age the worst? Leave your own scores below. Subscribe for weekly gaming discussions from two adult gamer parents. https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) — CHAPTERS 00:00 Predictions we will probably regret 01:21 Welcome to Pixel Parents 06:15 Marvel Tōkon Fighting Souls impressions 09:22 Why we both bought it 11:16 Combat and single player 15:44 Building the perfect team 20:51 Taking Marvel Tōkon online 23:34 A genuine fighting game surprise 29:51 DualSense, fonts and that soundtrack 34:02 Will we keep playing? 36:41 Scott returns to gaming 38:31 Starfield first impressions 40:55 GTA 6 is coming to Netflix 46:01 Fantasy Critic predictions 47:59 Star Wars Zero Company 51:44 The Blood of Dawnwalker 55:29 Orbitals 58:08 Onimusha Way of the Sword 01:01:58 Marvel’s Wolverine 01:05:20 Fire Emblem Fortunes Weave 01:08:06 Control Resonant 01:11:26 Silent Hill Townfall 01:14:30 EA Sports FC 27 01:15:24 Gears of War E Day 01:17:16 Castlevania Belmont’s Curse 01:17:44 Final Fantasy Resonance 01:19:14 Nintendo Switch Sports Resort 01:20:14 Call of Duty Modern Warfare 4 01:21:49 Phantom Blade Zero 01:23:21 Grand Theft Auto VI 01:26:43 Scott’s Fantasy Critic team 01:29:03 Gamer Court 01:29:42 Bethesda inventory must die 01:32:39 Did No Man’s Sky actually get better? 01:36:39 Closing the court Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394 💖 Join the FREE Patreon https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social 📺 Subscribe on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S ✉️ Email the show pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 124 - The Games We Bought at Exactly the Wrong Time - Pixel Parents Podcast | 07 août 2026 | 01:32:47 | |
Have you ever bought a great game at completely the wrong time? Scott bought Assassin’s Creed Valhalla alongside three other games for the PS5 launch. Liam bought Super Mario Odyssey, Wolfenstein 2 and Assassin’s Creed Origins shortly before becoming a parent. Neither plan went particularly well. This week, we discuss the games we never gave a fair chance because life, other releases or our own buying habits got in the way. We also revisit the second attempts that changed our minds, including Dark Souls, BioShock and Alan Wake 2. Scott delivers his full review of Sovereign Tower, a story-rich Round Table management RPG from Wild Wits Games and Curve Games. After playing it extensively on Steam Deck, he gives his score out of ten. Elsewhere, Liam continues Halo Campaign Evolved and Denshattack. We discuss rising Xbox prices, the difficulty of fitting large games into family life, and whether we should stop buying games simply because they are new. Gamer Court returns as Scott argues that Breath of the Wild has a bad open world. Starfield is also confirmed as our August Pixel Picks Replay game. What game did you buy at exactly the wrong time? Review code for Sovereign Tower was kindly supplied for coverage. Subscribe for weekly gaming discussions from two adult gamer parents. https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) CHAPTERS 00:00 Great games bought at the wrong time 00:48 Scott’s strange advertising obsession 03:21 Liam’s week and Spider Man 08:35 Sovereign Tower review 16:01 Scott’s final score 18:24 Halo Campaign Evolved 21:08 Why Denshattack keeps delivering 24:35 Marvel Tokon Fighting Souls 27:51 Xbox layoffs and price increases 36:44 Games bought at the wrong time 37:54 Assassin’s Creed Valhalla 39:11 The PS5 launch problem 41:58 Max Payne 3 and exam season 46:17 Games we loved on a second attempt 47:05 Scott returns to Dark Souls 49:36 Liam finally understands BioShock 52:00 Can handhelds rescue neglected games? 54:42 Games that arrived during major life events 58:50 Alan Wake 2 was worth the wait 01:01:41 Should we stop buying games at launch? 01:04:18 Do sales encourage bad purchases? 01:08:26 Is buying the game part of the fun? 01:10:15 Are modern games simply too long? 01:13:42 Surviving the September release rush 01:15:44 Every game could arrive at the wrong time 01:18:31 August Pixel Picks Replay 01:20:21 Gamer Court 01:21:19 Breath of the Wild on trial 01:27:13 Indie games against triple A games 01:29:56 Gamer Court is adjourned 01:31:10 Closing thoughts Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394 💖 Join the FREE Patreon https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social 📺 Subscribe on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S ✉️ Email the show pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 123 - The Unwritten Rules Every Gamer Follows & Halo Campaign Evolved - Pixel Parents Podcast | 31 juil. 2026 | 01:36:28 | |
Episode 123 - The Unwritten Rules Every Gamer Follows & Halo Campaign Evolved - Pixel Parents Podcast How wrong are we about to be? What are the unwritten rules every gamer follows? Check behind every waterfall. Smash every box. Explore away from the objective marker. Never use your best healing item because you might need it later. This week, we confess the strange gaming habits nobody had to teach us. From reloading a save after being spotted to judging stair animations and refusing to travel without the right radio station, we put the unofficial Gamer Code on record. Scott also returns briefly from paternity leave to discuss how gaming has changed with baby number two. Handheld gaming, short sessions and a lot of Zelda are keeping him going through the night feeds. We also share our Halo Campaign Evolved impressions. Liam is hit by a tidal wave of nostalgia, while Scott plays for an hour, cancels Game Pass and declares that Halo is still rubbish. Elsewhere, Scott revisits Burnout 3 Takedown for Pixel Picks Replay, Starfield is chosen as our August game and Gamer Court delivers its first guilty verdict. What is the unwritten gaming rule you follow every single time? In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) CHAPTERS 00:00 The unwritten rules of gaming 00:51 Scott returns 06:32 Gaming with baby number two 21:32 Halo Campaign Evolved impressions 29:44 Scott delivers his Halo verdict 34:21 Does Halo still matter? 43:19 Would we buy Halo without Game Pass? 45:34 The physical games problem 51:19 The unwritten rules every gamer follows 54:45 Reloading after getting caught 56:30 Why gamers hoard everything 01:01:01 The strange details we always test 01:03:49 Exploration rules 01:08:41 Moral rules in games 01:12:19 Gaming rules on trial 01:18:47 Pixel Picks Replay 01:19:29 Burnout 3 Takedown retrospective 01:24:45 August replay game revealed 01:25:10 Gamer Court 01:26:30 Stop romanticising cancelled games 01:30:49 Scott’s anime game crime 01:34:01 Closing thoughts Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload] 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394] 💖 Join the FREE Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents] 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky [https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social] 📺 Subscribe on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S] ✉️ Email the show [pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com](mailto:pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com) | |||
| Episode 122 - Gaming Predictions We'll Probably Regret & Denshattack! - Pixel Parents Podcast | 24 juil. 2026 | 01:18:21 | |
How wrong are we about to be? This week we're putting our reputations on the line by making bold predictions for where gaming is heading over the next five years. Will physical games survive? Will next-generation consoles become so expensive that finance plans become the norm? Which companies are about to get it right... and which ones are heading for trouble? We also share our thoughts on Denshattack!, discuss the continuing battle for physical media, and ask whether gaming is becoming too expensive for ordinary players. In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) CHAPTERS 00:00 Gaming Predictions We'll Probably Regret 00:41 Welcome Back 03:12 Housekeeping 04:05 What We've Been Playing 08:24 Denshattack! Impressions 17:36 The Fight For Physical Games 28:41 Is Gaming Becoming A Klarna Hobby? 35:18 Main Topic: Locking In Our Predictions 37:04 Console Predictions 45:56 Industry Predictions 54:33 The Games We'll Still Be Talking About 01:03:17 Pixel Picks Replay 01:06:42 Final Thoughts Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload] 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394] 💖 Join the FREE Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents] 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky [https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social] 📺 Subscribe on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S] ✉️ Email the show [pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com](mailto:pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com) | |||
| Episode 121 - Why Some Games Stay With Us Forever & Nex Playground Review - Pixel Parents Podcast | 17 juil. 2026 | 01:16:02 | |
Some games never really leave us. Years later, we can still remember the soundtrack, the ending, a favourite character, or exactly where we were when we first played them. This week we're asking a simple question. What actually makes a game stay with us? Is it nostalgia? Music? Replayability? The people we played with? Or something much deeper? Joining Liam once again is Alex from The Mimic's Veil, as we dive into one of our favourite gaming conversations yet. Also in this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) CHAPTERS 00:00 What Makes A Game Stay With You? 00:39 Welcome Back Alex 03:17 Housekeeping 04:14 What We've Been Playing 04:28 4PGP Review 06:40 Hell Clock Impressions 09:05 Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced 11:38 Returning To Black Ops 2 16:09 Nex Playground Review 29:39 Main Topic. What Makes A Game Stick With You? 30:53 Favourite Gaming Memories 40:48 Music That Never Leaves You 43:33 Characters & Endings We Still Think About 50:05 Games We Always Replay 59:57 Emotional Gaming Moments 01:03:49 Pixel Picks Replay. Burnout 3 Takedown 01:05:08 Gamer Court Debuts 01:05:48 Xbox Was Ahead Of Its Time? 01:10:31 Are Shorter Games The Future? 01:13:06 Final Thoughts Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com Follow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social Music & production by Sean Murray – barehandsdesigns.com New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload] 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394] 💖 Join the FREE Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents] 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky [https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social] 📺 Subscribe on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S] ✉️ Email the show [pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com](mailto:pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com) | |||
| Episode 120 - Gaming Reset: What We'd Do Differently- Pixel Parents Podcast | 10 juil. 2026 | 01:18:22 | |
Gaming feels like it's at a crossroads. This week, we react to another difficult week for the industry as Xbox announces more than 3,000 layoffs in what it calls a "reset". What does this mean for the future of gaming? Are publishers chasing impossible growth, and is the industry heading towards a wider correction? Then we ask ourselves a very different question… If we could start our gaming lives all over again, what would we do differently? Would we still buy games on day one? Would we build enormous backlogs? Would trophies, FOMO and social media still shape the way we play? Joining Liam this week while Scott enjoys paternity leave is Alex from The Mimic's Veil, bringing another perspective to one of our most personal discussions yet. In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) CHAPTERS
00:48 Welcome Alex Back 03:39 LEGO & Middle-earth Chat 07:38 Housekeeping 08:33 What We've Been Playing 08:45 Final Fantasy VII Remake 09:36 The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales 15:12 Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced 20:14 PlayStation & The End Of Physical Games? 29:30 Xbox Layoffs & Industry Reset 39:35 Main Topic. If We Started Gaming Again... 40:57 Would We Still Buy Games Day One? 46:41 Would We Build A Backlog? 50:31 Online Opinions & Reviews 55:18 Do We Replay Enough Games? 59:33 Trophies & Achievements 01:00:37 Would We Buy Less Hardware? 01:03:24 Game Pass & Subscription Fatigue 01:06:16 The Biggest Lesson We've Learned 01:12:09 Pixel Replay. Burnout 3 Returns 01:14:21 Closing Thoughts Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload] 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394] 💖 Join the FREE Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents] 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky [https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social] 📺 Subscribe on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S] ✉️ Email the show [pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com](mailto:pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com) | |||
| Episode 119 - Welcoming Baby #2… Scott's Final Save Point - Pixel Parents Podcast | 03 juil. 2026 | 01:13:21 | |
This week on the Pixel Parents Podcast, we're preparing for a huge life event. No, not GTA 6. Scott has become a father for the second time. Before he disappears into a haze of nappies, sleepless nights and questionable gaming decisions, we're sitting down for one final check in. In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) CHAPTERS 00:00 Preparing For Baby Number Two 00:42 Welcome Back 04:52 What Will Scott Be Playing Last? 06:37 Balatro Returns 09:33 Life Before Kids 13:39 Gaming With Your Children 21:34 Main Topic. The Paternity Backlog 22:54 Scott's Secret Gaming Stockpile 27:30 Which Game Is He Most Excited For? 29:29 The Games He'll Never Finish 30:32 Expectations Vs Reality 39:17 Biggest Gaming Misconceptions About Parenthood 45:39 Dad Advice Corner 54:22 The Games That Got Us Through 58:08 Paternity Leave Predictions 01:00:00 Pixel Replay Returns 01:00:57 Tetris Effect Review 01:07:17 July Pixel Replay Reveal 01:07:25 Burnout 3 Selected 01:09:27 Scott's Farewell 01:11:22 Final Thoughts Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload] 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394] 💖 Join the FREE Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents] 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky [https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social] 📺 Subscribe on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S] ✉️ Email the show [pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com](mailto:pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com) | |||
| Episode 118 - Backlog Era: Has Gaming Become Too Expensive? - Pixel Parents Podcast | 26 juin 2026 | 01:26:51 | |
This week on the Pixel Parents Podcast, we're asking a question that felt impossible just a few years ago… Has gaming become too expensive? Following the announcement of the Steam Machine and its eye-watering price tag, we're discussing whether gaming hardware has finally crossed a line. Are we entering a future where new consoles and premium hardware are becoming inaccessible for average players? In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) CHAPTERS 00:00 Has Gaming Become Too Expensive? 01:05 Welcome Back 07:58 GTA VI Hype Check-In 18:16 Liam Returns To Watch Dogs Legion 21:37 What Scott Has Been Playing 22:03 Wind Waker On Switch 2 24:17 Twilight Princess Obsession 25:00 Blood Dungeon Preview 28:28 Hell Is Us Impressions 33:10 Main Topic. Backlog Era 34:12 Steam Machine Price Reaction 39:32 Why Buy A Steam Machine? 43:16 Are We Entering The Backlog Era? 45:47 The Two Class Gamer Problem 52:12 Hardware Vs Software Spending 57:24 How Much Would We Pay For PS6? 01:03:35 Has Console Pricing Gone Too Far? 01:07:24 Project Helix & The Future Of Xbox 01:14:11 Who Is The Steam Machine Actually For? 01:20:08 Pixel Replay Reminder 01:21:28 Scott's Karaoke Story 01:24:24 Final Thoughts Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload] 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394] 💖 Join the FREE Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents] 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky [https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social] 📺 Subscribe on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S] ✉️ Email the show [pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com](mailto:pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com) | |||
| Episode 117 - Game of the Year So Far + Xbox's Darkest Week? - Pixel Parents Podcast | 19 juin 2026 | 01:13:03 | |
We're officially past the halfway point of 2026. So what is Game of the Year... so far? This week we're building our current GOTY shortlist, debating the biggest contenders, and asking which games still have a realistic chance of being in the conversation when The Game Awards roll around in December. Will Resident Evil Requiem still be standing? Can Mixtape go all the way? And have we already played this year's winner? A celebration of a brilliant year for games, with a reality check on where the industry finds itself. In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) CHAPTERS 00:00 Have We Already Played Game Of The Year? 00:38 Intro 05:28 Housekeeping 06:07 What We're Playing 06:31 Dragon's Dogma 2 Revisited 08:00 Capcom Fighting Collection 09:28 Returning To Final Fantasy VII Rebirth 12:05 Octopath Traveler Zero 13:22 Tetris Effect Addiction 14:02 Balatro Returns 15:06 Halo Infinite & Black Ops 7 20:37 Xbox Layoff Concerns 34:08 Main Topic - Game Of The Year So Far 35:29 Has 2026 Been A Great Year For Games? 40:22 Our GOTY Shortlists 42:25 Best Game Nobody Is Talking About 44:20 Most Disappointing Game 48:58 Best Indie Game 50:49 Biggest Surprise 51:58 Game Of The Year So Far 54:31 Can Anything Beat It? 01:03:13 Pixel Replay Update 01:04:20 Breaking Xbox Studio Closure News 01:09:38 Final Thoughts Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 116 - The Game Avalanche: Too Many Games, Not Enough Time - Pixel Parents Podcast | 12 juin 2026 | 01:21:50 | |
September and October are absolutely stacked. Publishers are racing to launch before GTA 6 arrives, and the result is one of the most crowded release windows we’ve seen in years. So how do we decide what actually deserves our time? Which games are day-one priorities?Which ones can wait for a sale?And how do we avoid destroying both our wallets and our backlogs? This week we draft our must-plays, predict surprise hits, and name the games most likely to be abandoned. In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) CHAPTERS 00:00 How Do We Survive Gaming's Busiest Month? 01:25 Welcome Back 04:50 Nintendo Direct Reactions 09:15 Ocarina of Time Remake & Kingdom Hearts 4 11:24 Summer Game Fest Top 5 Games 19:22 What We're Playing 20:05 007 First Light Review Chat 21:21 Lego Batman Fatigue 24:13 Octopath Traveler Zero 28:06 Main Topic - Surviving September 30:14 Why Is September So Stacked? 38:06 Our September Game Draft 46:54 Our October Game Draft 54:48 The Rule Of Three 58:18 Zelda Movie Discussion 01:05:41 If We Could Only Pick One Game 01:14:54 Pixel Replay Update 01:15:04 Breaking Xbox Layoff News 01:18:57 Final Thoughts Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Pixel REACTS - XBOX Games Showcase Reaction | 07 juin 2026 | 00:58:09 | |
This week on Pixel Reacts, we're breaking down everything announced during the Xbox Games Showcase 2026 and the Gears of War: E-Day Direct. From Gears of War and Fable to Persona 6, Spyro, Clockwork Revolution and more, Xbox delivered one of its strongest showcases in years. But the biggest talking point wasn't a single game. It was the feeling that Xbox finally has a direction again. We discuss: 🎮 Gears of War: E-Day ⚔️ Fable 🟢 Halo Combat Evolved 🎭 Persona 6 🐉 Spyro: A Realm Beyond 🕰️ Clockwork Revolution 🔥 Doom: The Dark Ages DLC 🎮 What Asha Sharma's Xbox could look like Plus our thoughts on exclusivity, Game Pass, Play Anywhere and whether Xbox finally feels like a platform worth investing in again. New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload] 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394] 💖 Join the FREE Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents] 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky [https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social] 📺 Subscribe on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S] ✉️ Email the show [pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com](mailto:pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com) — CHAPTERS 00:00 Xbox Finally Looks Like Xbox Again 00:36 Initial Showcase Verdict 04:58 Gears of War E-Day 14:21 Xbox Exclusivity Discussion 15:34 Fable 17:37 Halo Combat Evolved 20:08 Resonance A Plague Tale Legacy 21:20 Persona 4 Revival 22:55 State of Decay 3 24:14 Sea of Thieves & Metro 2039 24:59 Bad Magpie 25:26 Wo Long 2 26:54 The Blood of Dawnwalker 27:16 Senua Returns 29:22 Doom The Dark Ages DLC 31:32 Crazy Taxi World Tour 35:03 Magician The Devil's Deal 39:38 Castlevania Belmont's Curse 40:46 Vivarium 42:40 Persona 6 44:01 Spyro A Realm Beyond 45:26 Clockwork Revolution 49:38 Call of Duty Modern Warfare 4 53:54 Gears of War E-Day Direct 55:59 Final Thoughts & Scores — 🎧 Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload] 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394] 💖 Join the FREE Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents] 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky [https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social] 📺 Subscribe on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S] ✉️ Email the show [pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com](mailto:pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com) Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com Support us: Patreon.com/PixelParents | |||
| Pixel REACTS - Summer Game Fest Was A Mess | 06 juin 2026 | 00:26:20 | |
This week on Pixel Reacts, we're breaking down Summer Game Fest 2026. Or at least we're trying to. After more than two hours, dozens of trailers, endless announcements and a whole lot of games we struggled to care about, we came away with one big question. Has Summer Game Fest become too bloated? We discuss:
Plus our honest thoughts on Geoff Keighley's flagship gaming event and whether the format still works in 2026. Pixel Reacts is our special event series where we react to the biggest gaming showcases, announcements and industry moments. New episodes every Friday. Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social Support us: Patreon.com/PixelParents | |||
| Episode 115 - One Year of Switch 2: Was It Worth It? - Pixel Parents Podcast | 05 juin 2026 | 01:25:35 | |
The Nintendo Switch 2 is officially one year old. So… was it worth it? This week we look back at our first year with Nintendo’s latest console. What surprised us, what disappointed us, and whether it has truly earned a permanent place in our gaming lives. We break down:
Elsewhere this week:
Is Switch 2 the best launch platform of the generation… or just the most convenient? SUPPORT THE SHOW - JOIN OUR FREE PATREON: www.patreon.com/pixelparents Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com Follow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social Music & production by Sean Murray – barehandsdesigns.com | |||
| Pixel REACTS - PlayStation State of Play Reaction (JUNE 2026) | 02 juin 2026 | 00:39:53 | |
PlayStation came out swinging. This latest State of Play gave us our best look yet at Marvel's Wolverine, a surprise reveal for God of War: Laufey, Tomb Raider Legacy of Atlantis, Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls, Until Dawn 2 and a whole lot more. In this special episode of Pixel REACTS, we break down the biggest announcements, our favourite moments, and whether Sony delivered one of its strongest State of Play showcases in years. Featuring discussion on:
Pixel Reacts is our special event series where we react to the biggest gaming showcases, announcements and industry moments. New episodes every Friday. 🎧 Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/2JE8TeviD5XXuiqVYxj63Q?_reload_cause=banner-auto-reload] 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/pixel-parents-video-game-podcast/id1740836394] 💖 Join the FREE Patreon [https://www.patreon.com/pixelparents] 🦋 Follow us on Bluesky [https://bsky.app/profile/pixelparents.bsky.social] 📺 Subscribe on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@PixelParentsPodcast/S] ✉️ Email the show [pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com](mailto:pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com) Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com Support us: Patreon.com/PixelParents | |||
| Episode 114 - Summer Game Fest Predictions: Bold Calls for SGF, Xbox & PlayStation - Pixel Parents Podcast | 29 mai 2026 | 01:35:47 | |
Showcase season is here. This week, we’re making bold predictions for: Summer Game Fest, Sony’s State of Play, and Xbox Game Showcase What must show up?What surprise reveals are we calling now?And which platform holder has the most to prove? Plus, we have our impressions of LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight... and whether it might send parents to Arkham Asylum. And we discuss our impressions of 007 First Light... a GOTY contender? In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com Follow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 113 - Vice Boys: Our GTA Past & Hopes for GTA VI - Pixel Parents Podcast | 22 mai 2026 | 01:30:40 | |
This week, we’re going to ask the big question: has the world outgrown GTA? In our main topic, Vice Boys, we take a look back at our own history with Grand Theft Auto, from sneaking sessions as kids to watching the series evolve into a cultural juggernaut. Then we look ahead. What do we actually want from GTA VI? And how will Rockstar’s anticipated game land in a changed games media landscape? Plus, we preview Mina the Hollower ahead of review, give our thoughts on Forza Horizon 6 and more! In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 112 - Mixtape Review + The Gaming Habits We Need to Break - Pixel Parents Podcast | 15 mai 2026 | 01:23:19 | |
Gaming time feels harder to come by than ever. This week we’re checking in on the hotly anticipated Mixtape, one of May’s most talked-about releases. Does it live up to the buzz? Scott also gives his verdict on Constance after spending time with its slick tether mechanics and early platforming ideas. Then we get honest! We expose the gaming habits quietly sabotaging our limited time. The distractions. The over-optimising. The “just one more” mindset. The habits that make finishing games harder than it needs to be. If time is precious, why do we make it harder for ourselves? In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 111 - Chasing the Moment or Taking Our Time? - Pixel Parents Podcast | 08 mai 2026 | 01:19:14 | |
This week, we take a step back from the release cycle. In 2026, what does it actually mean to cover games? The pressure to move fast is real. Day one reactions. Early impressions. Staying in the conversation. But is faster coverage actually better coverage? We talk about chasing the moment versus taking time with the games that matter. What works. What feels forced. And how smaller shows like ours decide where to place our energy. Is slow, thoughtful coverage more valuable now? Or does keeping up still matter? Plus, Scott shares his thoughts on Saros to answer the question... is the PS5 exclusive worth your time? And we catch up on Vampire Survivors, which is still ruining lives! Finally, we introduce Pixel Picks Replay, our monthly video game book club where we select our first monthly game from our Top 100 Video Games In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Pixel Reacts - Star Fox Direct LIVE REACTIONS | 06 mai 2026 | 00:23:03 | |
Star Fox is back. We went live the second it dropped. This is Pixel Reacts. Our raw reaction to the first reveal of Star Fox on Nintendo Switch 2, launching June 25 2026. No script. No polish. Just real takes from Liam and Scott as it happened. The highs, the doubts, and what this comeback needs to land. Full Pixel Parents Podcast every Friday on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Subscribe, leave a 5 star review, and share it with someone who still remembers Star Fox at its best. | |||
| Episode 110 - The Games We’re Still Excited for in 2026 - Pixel Parents Podcast | 01 mai 2026 | 01:34:29 | |
We’re already deep into 2026, so it’s time to check in. What are we still genuinely excited for this year?What’s climbed the list?What’s cooled off? This week, we’re taking stock of our most anticipated games of 2026 so far and seeing where our hype levels really sit. Then the harder question follows: even if we’re excited… how are we actually fitting these games in? Big releases. Limited time. Real life schedules an adult gamer. We also catch up on what we’ve been playing: Scott remains locked in on Days Gone, Saros hype and is once again campaigning for a new Tomodachi Life. Meanwhile, Liam has a confession to make about his current obsession with Vampire Survivors… No Pixel Picks this week... we’re preparing the next chapter of the segment! In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 109 - The Pixel Picks Top 100 Video Games Showdown - Pixel Parents Podcast | 24 avr. 2026 | 02:16:14 | |
This is it. After two years of weekly Pixel Picks, the list of the top 100 video games we pass on to the next generation is complete. Now every single one enters the arena. Welcome to the Pixel Picks Top 100 Games Showdown. No safe seeding. No protected favourites. Just chaos, debate and survival. One by one, the games face off until only one remains… crowned the greatest game of all time. There will be shocks. There will be heartbreak. There will be controversial eliminations. And at the end, there can only be one. In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 108 – How We’d Fix Xbox as Asha Sharma - Pixel Parents Podcast | 17 avr. 2026 | 01:41:14 | |
We’re going back to the drawing board. In a previous episode, we asked how to make Xbox great again. Now, with Asha Sharma stepping into the CEO role at Xbox, we’re revisiting those takes and asking the bigger question: Can she actually fix the brand? We also catch up on what we’ve been playing this week, including Liam’s continued obsession with Crimson Desert, Scott's ongoing journey through the Legend of Zelda series, our early thoughts on Replaced, and Pragmata... including whether Scott might finally be tempted. And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we crown our 100th entry with the ultimate addition: In this episode:
GET BONUS SHOWS AND MORE BY JOINING OUR ALWAYS FREE PATREON! (www.patreon.com/pixelparents) Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 107 - PS5 So Far: Has the Generation Delivered? - Pixel Parents Podcast | 10 avr. 2026 | 01:40:40 | |
The PS5 price hike is here, and with a wave of new buyers jumping in before it hits, there's no better time to ask the question we've been sitting on for a while: has this generation actually delivered? This week on Pixel Parents, we dig into the full PS5 generation so far. The highs, the lows, the games that justified the purchase, and the moments that left us wondering what could have been. We're also catching up on Scott's ongoing The Legend of Zelda adventure and Liam's current obsessions, Raccoin and Crimson Desert, and in the Pixel Picks Showdown, we crown the greatest Timeless Classic game ever made. In this episode:
SUPPORT THE SHOW FOR FREE - www.patreon.con/pixelparents Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com Follow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social Music & production by Sean Murray – barehandsdesigns.com | |||
| Episode 106- Building the NCU: Our Dream Nintendo Cinematic Universe– Pixel Parents Podcast | 03 avr. 2026 | 01:23:28 | |
The Super Mario Galaxy film is here! So... we've gone Hollywood. This week on Pixel Parents, we're celebrating the release of Super Mario Galaxy on the big screen by doing what any self-respecting gamer parent would do: pitching the full Nintendo Cinematic Universe. We've also got a catch-up on the biggest game releases of the month, and the Pixel Picks Showdown goes full nostalgia as we crown the greatest movie tie-in game of all time. In this episode:
SUPPORT THE SHOW FOR FREE - www.patreon.con/pixelparents Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 105- Clocking In: Crimson Desert & The Time Crunch– Pixel Parents Podcast | 27 mars 2026 | 01:25:32 | |
We’re only a quarter into 2026 and already it feels like we’ve been served a banquet of enormous games. This week we’re discussing our journey so far with Crimson Desert. Does it live up to the hype? Does it justify the scale? And most importantly… how are we actually playing it? That leads us into this week’s main topic: Clocking In: Big Game Bonanza TIME CRUNCH The games are getting bigger. Longer. Meatier. More “worth your money.” But what does that mean when your gaming time is limited? Do massive hour counts inspire us… or overwhelm us? Are we savouring them properly — or taking anxious one-bite chunks before jumping ship? Does adult life sabotage big releases by default? And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re naming the Best Game That Pushed Gaming Forward. The titles that genuinely changed the industry! In this episode:
SUPPORT THE SHOW FOR FREE - www.patreon.con/pixelparents Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 104- DLSS 5 Fallout & The Gaming Hills We’ll Die On (w/ The Mimic Veil’s Alex)– Pixel Parents Podcast | 20 mars 2026 | 01:17:40 | |
Alex from The Mimic’s Veil returns as we unpack the fallout from the DLSS 5 reveal and what it could mean for the future. Are we doomed to slop or is there hope? Then things get spicy. In our main topic, we’re planting flags and naming the gaming hills we’re willing to die on. No hedging. No soft takes. Just core beliefs about this hobby that we’re not backing down from! And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we crown the Best Game That Split the Fanbase, the titles that divided players right down the middle. In this episode:
SUPPORT THE SHOW FOR FREE - www.patreon.con/pixelparents Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 103 - Pokemon Pokopia & The Big Next Gen Chat (Xbox Project Helix Edition) – Pixel Parents Podcast | 13 mars 2026 | 01:31:03 | |
This week we’re covering a LOT of ground. We kick things off with our impressions of Pokémon Pokopia, why we’ve found ourselves back in that world, how it has become an obsession and what it says about how we approach gaming in 2026. We’re also reviewing Collector’s Cove and Greedfall: The Dying World, breaking down what’s landing and what isn’t. Then it’s time for The Big Next-Gen Chat (again)… With Xbox blinking first in the next-gen race with Project Helix, and rumours that PlayStation is pushing ahead with the PS6 despite hardware shortages, we’re asking: Is it too soon? Who is this really for? Are consoles becoming luxury products for only the hardest of hardcore? And is the industry pushing forward simply because it can? In this episode:
SUPPORT THE SHOW FOR FREE - www.patreon.con/pixelparents Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 102 - Too Old for Gaming? + Resident Evil Requiem – Pixel Parents Podcast | 06 mars 2026 | 01:25:22 | |
This week we’re asking a big one: are we too old for gaming? As we get older, priorities shift, time shrinks and the industry keeps evolving. Do we ever feel like certain games aren’t “for us” anymore? Or does gaming simply grow with us? We’re breaking down what ageing in this hobby actually feels like… and whether the idea of “ageing out” is complete nonsense. We’re also giving our full review of Resident Evil Requiem after launch. Does it live up to the name? Plus, we chat about how we’re approaching Pokémon these days, our Steam Next Fest picks and whether we’re worried about Bungie with Marathon releasing. And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re naming the Game That Aged Like Fine Wine. The titles that somehow feel even better now than they did at launch. In this episode:
SUPPORT THE SHOW FOR FREE - www.patreon.com/pixelparents Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 101 - Resident Hero: Steven Mair & The Future of Xbox – Pixel Parents Podcast | 27 févr. 2026 | 01:31:57 | |
It’s a special week on the Pixel Parents Podcast as we welcome Steven Mair, the Gamer In Residence at Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity. In honour of today’s Resident Evil Requiem release, we’re flipping the script with a celebration of real-world positivity this is our Resident Hero episode. Steven joins us to talk about Games for the Weans, the power of play in tough moments, and how gaming can make a genuine difference in kids’ lives. We’re also digging into the future of Xbox after the departures of Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond. What happens next? Who carries the brand forward? And what does a post-Spencer era even mean for Xbox fans? Scott also reviews Demon Tides, and Liam talks Steam Next Fest with Akatori and more! And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re naming the Best Game of the Phil Spencer Era — the title that defined Xbox during one of its most important chapters. In this episode:
SUPPORT THE SHOW FOR FREE! www.patreon.com/pixelparents Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 100 - Party Time: The Pixel Parents 100 Time Capsule – Pixel Parents Podcast | 20 févr. 2026 | 01:48:00 | |
We made it. 100 episodes of the Pixel Parents Podcast!!! And this week we’re celebrating everything that’s brought us here. We kick things off by looking back at our favourite moments, the guests who’ve joined us, and the chaotic highlights that helped shape the show. From early-day nerves to big interviews and everything in between, we’re building our Pixel Parents Hall of Fame. Then we look forward. This episode is also a time capsule! A record we can revisit 100 episodes from now. We set our gaming resolutions for the next era, talk hopes and dreams for the community and the show, and say thank you to everyone who’s been part of the journey so far. PLUS: a special Patreon giveaway plug for long-time listeners. And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re naming the Best Game of the Last 100 Episodes… the title that defined this podcast era. In this episode:
Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 99 - Under Pressure: Nioh 3, Mewgenics and Gamer Guilt– Pixel Parents Podcast | 13 févr. 2026 | 01:28:18 | |
This week we’re chatting all things Nioh 3, from first impressions to what we hope Team Ninja brings to the next chapter of the series. We’re also chatting Mewgenics and more! Our main topic comes straight from a listener: do we get gamer guilt? We love this hobby, but does gaming sometimes feel like it comes at the expense of… everything else? Time, chores, partners, kids, rest. The real-life boss fights! We break down where gamer guilt comes from, how it shows up for parents and busy adults, and whether it ever truly goes away. More importantly: is it worth it anyway? How do we balance the joy, the escapism and the identity of being a gamer with the reality of limited time? And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re naming the Best Time Sponge Game… the ones that happily (and unapologetically) eat your entire weekend. In this episode:
Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 98 - We Just FOMO’d Ourselves - Pixel Parents Podcast | 06 févr. 2026 | 01:37:29 | |
This week we’re revealing the games we totally FOMO’d on — the ones we didn’t plan to buy, didn’t have time for, didn’t even want… until the hype wave swallowed us whole. We’re naming names, owning our weaknesses, and dissecting where the influence came from: reviews, trailers, friends, social media, podcasts… or our own self-inflicted hype spirals. Why does FOMO hit gamer parents so hard? What makes certain games impossible to resist? And do we ever regret it? And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re crowning the Best FOMO Game — the title that defined hype, influence, and panic-buy energy. In this episode:
Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com Music & production by Sean Murray – barehandsdesigns.com | |||
| Episode 97 - Highguard & Hardcore Gamers – Pixel Parents Podcast | 30 janv. 2026 | 01:30:13 | |
This week we’re digging into Highguard and tackling a spicy conversation about what actually makes someone a hardcore gamer… and why it’s definitely not just the people sinking endless hours into games. Life gets busy. Priorities shift. Kids appear. Jobs explode. But the passion for gaming doesn’t disappear (it just shows up in different ways). So we’re asking: What defines a Hardcore gamer? And who gets to decide that, anyway? And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re naming the Best Easy Game, the perfect comfort pick when life gives you 20 minutes instead of two hours. In this episode:
FREE PATREON: www.patreon.com/pixelparents Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com Follow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social
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| Episode 96 - Xbox Developer Direct 26’ Reactions + Pressing Reset: Gaming and Expecting Again - Pixel Parents Podcast | 23 janv. 2026 | 01:57:40 | |
This week we react to the Xbox Developer Direct and run through the biggest moments as we see more from Fable, Forza Horizon 6, Beast of Reincarnation and Kiln! PLUS - Big news this week — Scott is going to be a dad again! So we’re pressing reset and talking honestly about what it means to juggle gaming when life gets busier, noisier, and a whole lot more sleepless. We break down what changes (and what doesn’t) when you’re expecting again, what expectations Scott has this time around, and what advice we’d give to listeners heading into that newborn window. No pressure, no myths, just real talk from two gamer parents. And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re naming the Best Short Session Game, perfect for those tiny pockets of time life still gives you. In this episode:
SUPPORT US AND JOIN OUR FREE PATREON: www.patreon.com/pixelparents Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 95 – Hot Takes: Most Underrated or Overrated? – Pixel Parents Podcast | 16 janv. 2026 | 01:35:58 | |
This week, Alex is back for what might be our most chaotic episode yet as we play a ruthless round of Underrated or Overrated.Nothing is safe.No franchise is sacred.And yes — your favourite game might appear. Expect sparks and the kind of nonsense that only happens when two tired gamer parents decide to say what many others dare not! And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re naming the Best Polarising Critique Game, the titles that split reviewers, communities, and sometimes even us. In this episode:
Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com Follow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social Music & production by Sean Murray – barehandsdesigns.com | |||
| Episode 94 – The Big 2026 Preview Chat: Most Anticipated Games & Predictions | 09 janv. 2026 | 01:48:01 | |
It’s a brand new year, which means one thing... more games than we’ll ever find time to play. This week, friend of the show and host of The Mimic's Veil, Alex, returns as our special guest! And we’re kicking off 2026 by breaking down the games we’re most excited about, from the obvious heavy hitters to the long shots and dream announcements. We also tackle the elephant in the room: GTA 6, when we think it will land, and how it could reshape everything around it. We chat through Xbox’s anniversary year with Halo, Fable and Gears all lining up for a comeback, Nintendo’s potential big swings in a Switch 2 world, and whether the Steam Machine really could be hiding Half-Life 3 or something equally seismic. Then we grab the crystal ball and make our bold, probably-wrong 2026 predictions. And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re naming the Best Bullet Heaven/Hell Game. In this episode:
SUPPORT THE SHOW - JOIN OUR FREE PATREON: www.patreon.com/pixelparents Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com Follow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social Music & production by Sean Murray – barehandsdesigns.com | |||
| Episode 93 – Our New Year Gaming Resolutions + 2025 Gaming In Review – Pixel Parents Podcast | 02 janv. 2026 | 01:27:03 | |
We’re kicking off the new year with a look forward and a look back. First, we set out our 2026 gaming resolutions, the promises, intentions and delusions we’ll almost definitely break by March. Backlog goals, platform habits, spending choices, and the types of games we want to play more (or less) of next year. Then we revisit 2025 and grade the Big Three: PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo. All wrapped in a wee bow as we kick off our own year in gaming as two tired gamer dads! In this episode:
Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 92 - Game of The Year 2025 - Pixel Parents Podcast | 26 déc. 2025 | 01:47:20 | |
It’s our biggest episode of the year, the Pixel Parents Game of the Year 2025.We’re counting down our top ten favourite games of the year, celebrating the surprises, the slow burns, the instant classics, and the titles that defined our time playing games this year. No big stage. No world premieres. Just the honest, personal picks that stuck with us. In this episode:
Support the show and get more! Join our FREE Patreon: www.patreon.com/pixelparents Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.socialMusic & production by Sean Murray – barehandsdesigns.com | |||
| Episode 91 - Jingle All The Play: The Pixel Parents Christmas Special 2025 - Pixel Parents Podcast | 19 déc. 2025 | 01:38:55 | |
It’s Christmas at Pixel Parents HQ, and we’re going full festive this week. We’re looking back at the games we wanted for Christmas growing up, the ones we got, the ones we didn’t, and the ones that live rent-free in our memories. We also chat about our modern festive gaming rituals, the media traditions we fall into every year, and the cosy comfort games we reach for once the Christmas lights go up. This is the warm, nostalgic, slightly chaotic end-of-year hangout you deserve. Grab your favourite festive tipple, get cozy, and join us for a nostalgic and festive chat about video games! In this episode:
Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 90 – The Game Awards: The Ultimate Review – Pixel Parents Podcast | 12 déc. 2025 | 01:51:20 | |
This week we’re doing what should have been done years ago: From undeniable classics to questionable choices, we break down each year, what else was nominated, and which games have actually stood the test of time. Also, we’re chatting about our time with Metroid Prime 4, Marvel Cosmic Invasion, Nicktoons & The Dice of Destiny and Demonschool to name but a few games to chat about this week! It’s equal parts nostalgia, hindsight, and a bit of chaos. In this episode:
Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 89 - The Geoffies: Yet Another Alternative Game Awards 2025 – Pixel Parents Podcast | 05 déc. 2025 | 01:18:46 | |
This week, it’s time for yet another alternative Game Awards…. The Geoffies! No orchestra, no celebrity cameos, just two tired gamer dads handing out deeply unserious gongs for the best (and strangest) moments in gaming this year. We’ve got brand new categories, some new favourites, and a few that probably shouldn’t exist at all. No tuxedos or trailers, but plenty of laughs in what is our most unhinged episode yet! In this episode:
Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 88 - RIP Console Wars (?) + Festive Gaming Buying Guide 2025 - Pixel Parents Podcast | 28 nov. 2025 | 01:34:48 | |
This week we’re taking a look back at the Console Wars: the daft bits, the fanboy era, and what it’s become in the age of “play anywhere.” We’re also reviewing CloverPit and joining in the fun, sharing our looting tales from Arc Raiders. We’ve also got a Festive Gaming Buying Guide 2025 — our best tips for Black Friday through Christmas to get the most for less, whether you’re buying for big kids or little ones. And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re crowning the Best System Seller… the games that made you buy the box. In this episode:
Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.comFollow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social | |||
| Episode 87 – Golden Years: 20 Years of Xbox 360 (Plus: The Game Awards Predictions) – Pixel Parents Podcast | 21 nov. 2025 | 01:41:48 | |
It’s a chunky one this week as we take a loving look back at 20 years of Xbox 360, peak online play, era-defining blockbusters and ask: what made it so damn good? We also share our predictions for The Game Awards and react to the Xbox Partner Showcase! Also, we’ve got the verdict on Dispatch and share our thoughts on Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re crowning the Best Nintendo Exclusive Game…from Hyrule to the Mushroom Kingdom and beyond Support us FREE! Get bonus shows FREE! - www.patreon.com/pixelparents In this episode:
Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com | |||
| Episode 86 - In Conversation with Patrick Klepek: Gaming, Parenting & More! - Pixel Parents Podcast | 14 nov. 2025 | 01:42:50 | |
Support us FREE! Get bonus shows FREE! - www.patreon.com/pixelparents This week we’re joined by Patrick Klepek (Editor Remap, and Editor/founder Crossplay) for a wide-ranging chat on games media, parent-gamer life, and how we all keep the joy of play alive! We also break down State of Play Japan (what landed, what didn’t), chat the all new Steam Machine and review Winter Burrow after some quality time with our cosy, crunchy little mouse adventure. And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re crowning the Best Xbox Exclusive Game… what title defines Team Green? In this episode:
— Keep up with Patrick and subscribe for more! Remap - https://remapradio.com/ Crossplay - https://www.crossplay.news/ BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/patrickklepek.bsky.social —
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| Episode 85 - One Year of PS5 Pro: Worth It or FOMO? (Plus The Outer Worlds 2) - Pixel Parents Podcast | 07 nov. 2025 | 01:24:34 | |
Support us FREE! Get bonus shows! - www.patreon.com/pixelparents It’s been a year with the PS5 Pro. Was it a smart upgrade or pure FOMO? Plus, we’re catching up on The Outer Worlds 2 and how it’s shaping up against our expectations. And in this week’s Pixel Picks Showdown, we’re crowning the Best PlayStation Exclusive Game! In this episode:
Write to us: pixelparentspodcast@gmail.com Follow us on BlueSky: @pixelparents.bsky.social Music & production by Sean Murray – barehandsdesigns.com | |||