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Dual Comm Podcast

bbkdragoon

Welcome to the Dual Comm Podcast, hosted by bbkdragoon and EposVox, where gaming, tech, and life intersect in thoughtful and exciting conversations. As creators who grew up during the golden age of gaming, we dive into everything from nostalgic throwbacks and modern trends to the deeper connections games foster in our lives. Each show, we explore topics like multiplayer memories, the evolution of gaming culture, the latest in tech, and how games continue to shape the way we experience the world. Whether it’s debating old vs. new graphics, reliving LAN party glory days, or exploring the value of physical vs. digital media, we try to bring fresh perspectives to the table. Join us for casual chats, fun insights, and a celebration of what makes gaming and tech so impactful. Press start and listen now!

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21 episodes
Avg 1 hr 46 min
English

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#28
Friday · 1 hr 28 min
The Joy of Retro Games & Rediscovery
There's a lot of joy in going back to older games and putting sustained focus into them. In this episode of the Dual Comm podcast we talk about just. We talk about the main things that make those older games different, how to slow down, and a bunch of other things. We'll talk about Epos' Ayn Thor journey and his Pokemon mega playthrough along with some AI stuff, YouTube algorithm stuff, and a bit more. Thanks for listening or watching. 00:00 Intro 03:36 Gaming News, AI & Steam Next Fest 15:17 Going Back to PS2 and PSP 17:38 The Algorithm Influence 33:27 AI and the Future of YouTube 56:45 The AYN Thor & Epos' Pokémon Journey 1:09:39 Sustained Focus 1:18:08 Old Games vs Modern Games Jampackd Magazine: https://jampackd.quest/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DualComm Pod-zine: https://glitch.mov/products/dual-comm-podzine-1-the-feelings-test Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#27
September 5 · 1 hr 27 min
Gamescom, State of Play & Old Games Making a Comeback
We are back discussing the epic Gamescom and State of Play announcments including The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Remastered, the Songs of the Past new Witcher 3 expansion, and the new free Mario Kart 8 update that brings 8 player splitscreen for Switch 2 users along with other free enhancements. We discuss this trend of older games getting renewed support, expansions, and remasters and ask if more publishers should pursue this. Then we discuss Sony's new State of Play, what games we are excited about and then dive into a bit more discussion on the importance of consumer protections as they move into the all digital era. We talk Xbox's new disc to digital program, September game releases, and more. Thanks for listening. Show links: https://www.gamesindustry.biz/over-700-games-launched-on-steam-in-one-week-for-the-first-time-though-74-had-fewer-than-10-reviews https://www.msn.com/en-us/gaming/xbox/xbox-disc-to-digital-supports-delisted-games-too-here-s-every-title-that-works-so-far/ar-AA2bscYc https://www.flyingpenguin.com/doctorows-disinvention-of-the-vcrs-history/ Jampackd Magazine: https://jampackd.quest/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DualComm Pod-zine: https://glitch.mov/products/dual-comm-podzine-1-the-feelings-test 00:00 What We’ve Been Playing 06:58 The Witcher 3’s Huge Gamescom Comeback 15:09 Should Old Games Keep Getting New Content? 25:51 Are Classic Gaming Franchises Making a Comeback? 35:11 All Digital PlayStation... 42:50 State of Play: Our Favorite Games 52:04 September Is Absolutely Stacked 54:50 Xbox Disc-to-Digital & The Future of Physical Games 1:18:18 700 Games in One Week: Steam, Indies & Discovery Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#26
July 28 · 1 hr 53 min
Halo Campaign Evolved, Sony’s All-Digital Future, and Xbox’s Reset
A lot has happened in gaming since our last show, so we had plenty to catch up on. We talk about our early impressions of Halo Campaign Evolved, Xbox’s massive restructuring, and why Sony moving away from physical games feels like such a breaking point. Epos also shares his surprisingly positive experience with the new Steam Machine, while we get into game ownership, preservation, and why convenience matters more to us as we get older. Plus, we talk Monster Hunter, older consoles, YouTube’s continued evolution, and plenty more along the way. Jampackd Magazine: https://jampackd.quest/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DualComm Pod-zine: https://glitch.mov/products/dual-comm-podzine-1-the-feelings-test 00:00:00 Intro & Jam-Packed Magazine 00:03:56 Games of the Week 00:6:08 Video of the Week: Sony and Physical Games 00:7:22 Wind Waker, Pokémon FireRed & Emulation 00:13:47 Steam Machine Impressions 00:26:53 Xbox’s Reset & Bethesda Layoffs 00:39:15 Sony’s All-Digital Future 01:01:42 Is a Hobby Still a Hobby? 01:05:08 Halo Campaign Evolved Impressions 01:18:55 Sony’s Lost PlayStation Handheld 01:20:47 Replaceable Batteries & the Original Switch 01:24:07 Switch 2 OLED Rumors 01:28:40 The Value of Older Consoles 01:30:37 Convenience Over the “Best” Way to Play 01:36:33 Monster Hunter Wilds & Capcom 01:42:29 YouTube Algorithms & What Comes Next 01:52:29 Outro Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#25
June 4 · 1 hr 29 min
Incredible State of Play & Steam Deck Price Increase
We really enjoyed the new State of Play, and in this special Dual Comm episode we recap the entire presentation and our thoughts on the games that were shown. Then we talk about friction free gaming, the one platform mindset update, and the Steam Deck pricing increases that just happened. Thanks for listening and have a great week! 00:00:00 Incredible State of Play 00:01:40 Game of the Week 00:02:31 Wolverine 00:06:26 Marvel Tokon Fighting Souls 00:07:50 Rayman Legends Retold 00:09:00 Bancho The Chef 00:10:14 Kemuri 00:11:34 Tomb Raider Legacy of Atlantis 00:14:06 The Lost Wild 00:14:37 Phantom Blade Zero 00:15:43 Dune: Awakening 00:17:15 Dynasty Warriors 3 Complete Edition Remastered 00:20:00 No Rest For The Wicked 00:22:00 Onimusha 00:24:10 Ace Combat 8 00:31:02 Stuntman Hollywood 00:33:08 Control Resonant 00:34:31 Marathon 00:35:17 Runescape Wilds 00:37:19 Until Dawn 2 00:37:52 God Of War Laufey 00:52:08 State Of Play Reception 00:58:27 The One Platform Mindset 01:07:08 The Feelings Test Awareness 01:14:00 Friction Free Gaming 01:19:11 Steam Deck Price Increase Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#24
May 28 · 1 hr 41 min
Will Gaming Feel Hopeful Again?
This week we talk about Thronefall as our game of the week. Epos built the ultimate locked down laptop for a dialed family experience. We look at an amazing custom motherboard PS2 handheld. We discuss Sony moving away from PC releases for their first party singleplayer games. Then in the back half we discuss numerous gaming news items, along with our main topic, will gaming ever feel hopeful again. Thanks for watching! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DualComm Pod-zine: https://glitch.mov/products/dual-comm-podzine-1-the-feelings-test 00:00:00 Game & Video Of The Week 00:18:30 Intentional Laptop For The Kiddo 00:29:15 Handheld PlayStation 2 00:40:49 Looking At YouTube Studio 00:45:10 PS5 No More On PC 01:00:00 PS Plus Price Increase 01:01:23 Plex Lifetime Pass $750... 01:11:12 Steam Download Tab Update 01:13:04 Helldivers 2 Tech Update 01:17:25 Discord Gets End to end encryption 01:19:19 Marathon Getting More PvE Support? 01:24:33 Will Gaming Feel Hopeful Again? Show links: VIDEO OF THE WEEK: Hank Green “I just want to fix things” https://youtu.be/WnG6l7voITY GAME OF THE WEEK: Thronefall https://store.steampowered.com/app/2239150/Thronefall/ Google Search Going Away https://techcrunch.com/2026/05/19/google-search-as-you-know-it-is-over/ INSANE portable PS2 made with original chips but custom motherboard https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/handheld-gaming/enthusiast-crams-reversed-engineered-ps2-into-a-handheld-designs-custom-motherboard-bespoke-playstation-2-portable-pairs-modern-features-with-original-silicon PlayStation Exec says PC releases are DONE https://bsky.app/profile/jasonschreier.bsky.social/post/3mm5jzsls5s2a PS+ Price Increases https://x.com/playstation/status/2056404450793938989 Plex makes its lifetime license unaffordable, move to Jellyfin https://www.plex.tv/blog/new-lifetime-plex-pass-pricing/ Helldivers 2 is finally getting FSR/DLSS/Reflex https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/553850/view/666114279352566049 Discord updates Linux client, adds E2EE for video calls https://discord.com/blog/every-voice-and-video-call-on-discord-is-now-end-to-end-encrypted Marathon getting PVE/story content https://kotaku.com/marathon-reveals-an-ambitious-blueprint-for-making-it-a-game-more-people-want-to-play-2000696161 Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#23
April 16 · 1 hr 31 min
Why Everything Feels Too Distracting Now
This show we dive into how stimulating the modern internet can be, and how it takes a lot of effort to truly disconnect. But that effort to get a bit more offline has immense benefits and joys behind it. We then talk about finding your own taste in gaming and being confident in the mechanics you enjoy. We close by talking about Sony's step away from PC releases and PC language regarding their games and what that could mean. Thanks for watching or listening! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DualComm Chapters: 00:00:00 Video of the week 00:10:52 Internet Over stimulation & Attention 00:40:49 Finding Your Taste In Gaming 00:57:40 Inbox Zero & Deep Work 01:18:02 PlayStation Scrubbing PC References Show Links: Over stimulation Topic: https://www.msn.com/en-gb/health/general/scientists-say-social-media-detox-can-reverse-10-years-of-damage/ar-AA20vNun PC Gamer article: https://www.pcgamer.com/games/action/your-joys-will-always-be-someone-elses-junk/ PlayStation scrubbing PC References: https://gameobserver.com/playstation-studios-removes-nearly-all-pc-references-from-websites/ Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#22
March 28 · 1 hr 49 min
Chasing That Old Gaming Feeling
On this episode we talk about the freedom that a game like Minecraft provides and the generational memories it has built with millions of players. We dive into freedom of play in a sandbox game and how nostalgia impacts every generation. We talk about ways you can make your PC less distracting to help get into games with less friction. Then we talk about game curation, choice, and the new era of a more saturated market. Finally we talk about how rad and fun gaming can be these days. Thanks for listening! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DualComm Video of the week: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKQ0XEi_Ttw Game of the week: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3919490/Driftline_Peaks/ Show links: Epos' DLSS 5 video: https://demodisc.zone/t/dlss-5-sent-me-into-the-woods-aka-spring-break-travel-photog-trip/347 More Music Released In A Day Than A Whole Year https://www.nme.com/news/music/more-music-released-in-a-single-day-in-2024-than-the-whole-of-1989-says-study-3815719 Steam Game Releases By Review Count: https://bsky.app/profile/brkeogh.bsky.social/post/3mgvde43i722q 00:00:00 Intro 00:02:00 Video Of The Week 00:07:00 Game Of The Week 00:10:47 Minecraft, Memories, Freedom, & Nostalgia 00:30:57 De-Distract Your PC 00:54:00 Game Saturation, Curation, & Enjoying The Process 01:28:49 Gaming Is Pretty Awesome Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#21
February 24 · 1 hr 41 min
Why Originality Matters More Than Ever
This week we talk about Steam Next Fest which is starting now! We discuss the consumer electronics crisis that is being fueled by lack of supply. We then talk about Sony's newest State of Play and the games that stood out to us. Unreal Tournament 2004 is free and has been improved by the old unreal community. Then we talk about the importance of originality. Thanks for listening and have a great week! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DualComm Game of the week: Easy Delivery Co. https://store.steampowered.com/app/3293010/Easy_Delivery_Co/ Video of the week: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fG8JUDjtgtw Show links: STEAM NEXT FEST (Feb 23 – March 2, 2026 @ 10AM PT) https://store.steampowered.com/sale/nextfest_feb26_press/ Lost Save's Video On Next Fest: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sf1LOHTaa14 Hardware Shortages: https://www.pcgamer.com/hardware/memory/many-consumer-electronics-manufacturers-will-go-bankrupt-or-exit-product-lines-by-the-end-of-2026-due-to-the-ai-memory-crisis-phison-ceo-reportedly-says/ https://www.tomshardware.com/tech-industry/artificial-intelligence/over-80-percent-of-companies-report-no-productivity-gains-from-ai-so-far-despite-billions-in-investment-survey-suggests-6-000-executives-also-reveal-1-3-of-leaders-use-ai-but-only-for-90-minutes-a-week https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzTg5hhH5tE https://www.pushsquare.com/news/2026/02/sony-considering-ps6-delay-to-2028-or-even-2029-new-report-says State of Play Feb 12 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0e5YEXtZu0 God of War 2D spin-off article (VGC): https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/what-the-f-are-they-thinking-god-of-war-creator-says-2d-spin-off-sons-of-sparta-doesnt-respect-the-license/ UNREAL TOURNAMENT 2004 (Free 4K Community Installer) https://www.oldunreal.com/ Stardew Valley player sleeps for 1,000 years (Kotaku): https://kotaku.com/stardew-valley-sleep-meteorite-mushroom-trees-stone-owls-2000669774 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:30 Game Of The Week 00:12:30 Video Of The Week 00:21:48 Steam Next Fest 00:30:36 Are Consumer Electronics In Jeopardy? 00:41:00 Consequences Of Steam Machine Delay 00:47:39 State Of Play 01:01:22 Unreal Tournament 2004 Free And Enhanced 01:08:20 Stardew Valley Player Sleeps For 1000 Years 01:10:00 You Have What AI Needs Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#20
February 9 · 2 hr 2 min
Gaming Is Still Amazing (Despite Everything)
In this episode we talk about Unreal Engine’s influence on movies and TV, the current AI panic in games, and why being constantly mad about tech is a losing game. We also dig into owning your services, GOG’s push toward Linux and preservation, and why mid-tier games deserve more love. Thanks for listening and have a great day! #gaming #gamingpodcast #gamingcommentary Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DualComm Dual Comm Party Chat Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuMLyNxTXPdCKlZ9CMXkNPDMNNIKQARPd Show Links: Featured Video Finis Coronat Opus — A Mirror's Edge Sniping Montage https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHOLAMHBJ3k Featured Games: Arcadium Space Odyssey https://store.steampowered.com/app/2352670/Arcadium__Space_Odyssey/ Don't Stop, Girlypop! https://store.steampowered.com/app/2610650/Dont_Stop_Girlypop/ Garlic https://store.steampowered.com/app/1250440/Garlic/ UNREAL ENGINE IN MOVIES / TV - VGC (Gore Verbinski quote about Unreal Engine): https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/greatest-slip-backwards-pirates-of-the-caribbean-director-says-unreal-engine-makes-films-look-too-much-like-games/ Tom’s Hardware (Project Genie / gaming stocks reaction): https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/gaming-market-melts-down-after-google-reveals-new-ai-game-design-tool-project-genie-crashes-stocks-for-roblox-nintendo-cd-projekt-red-and-more OWN YOUR TECH SERVICES / BEING DONE BEING MAD - Linus Tech Tips (I’m done being mad about tech): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZZf6LM3wAU - Level1Techs (Adam + Wendell storage adventure feat. EposVox): https://level1techs.com/node/3347 Swagless Games https://www.polygon.com/code-vein-2-swagless-game/ Red Dead Redemption 2 vs. A Tiny CRT https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_tohNLvkxk Sony AI LLM Podcast Patent https://www.techradar.com/gaming/sony-patents-ai-generated-podcasts-with-playstation-characters-because-video-game-platforms-currently-lack-the-ability-to-provide-unique-and-targeted-content-to-gamers 00:00:00 Are We Reducing Our Setups? (Emulation) 00:05:03 Dual Comm Patreon 00:08:30 Featured Video Of The Show 00:12:16 Featured Games Of The Show 00:17:00 Is Unreal Engine Ruining Movies & TV? 00:24:49 AI Is Running Wild 00:44:00 Own Your Tech Services 00:56:10 GOG Bringing GOG Galaxy To Linux 01:02:42 Epos Doesn't Like Pick Up Videos Anymore 01:11:50 Done Being Mad About Tech 01:30:15 Mid Games Are Awesome 01:50:34 Epos & Fable Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE Subscribe on iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Subscribe on Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#19
January 19 · 1 hr 48 min
Steam Deck LCD Is Gone, the FPS Shift, and Doing Things for Yourself
Season 2 of the Dual Comm podcast has arrived. We discuss the Steam Deck LCD going away, likely due to RAM shortages. We talk about giving gaming less of yourself to enjoy the hobby more, and then dig into the self-help trend flooding YouTube around hobbies. We also talk about a PC Gamer article noting that the focus of major FPS releases is shifting away from competitive play and toward more relaxed co-op experiences. We wrap by talking about dopamine sensitivity, doing things for yourself, and creating. Thanks for watching. Dual Comm Party Chat Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuMLyNxTXPdCKlZ9CMXkNPDMNNIKQARPd Show Links: Welcome to the FPS Vibe Shift (PC Gamer) https://www.pcgamer.com/games/fps/welcome-to-the-fps-vibe-shift/ Chiral Drifter - Gaming Feels New Again (We Gave Gaming Smaller Pieces of Ourselves) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnIo2WWt848 Another video about giving gaming less of yourself https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bo4LUKi62jY Epos new blog gamer.dad https://gamer.dad Chapters: 00:00:00 - Season 2 Begins 00:01:48 - Finishing Horizon Zero Dawn and Starting Forbidden West 00:12:46 - Steam Deck Funded by Counter-Strike Skins 00:15:47 - The End of the Steam Deck LCD 00:20:53 - Launching the gamer.dad Blog 00:22:04 - Rediscovering RSS 00:23:27 - Giving Games Less of Yourself 00:31:24 - When Intentional Gaming Becomes the Default 00:51:21 - The FPS Vibe Shift 01:10:24 - YouTube, Algorithms, and Sensationalism 01:30:16 - Doing Things Just for Yourself 01:39:30 - Dopamine Sensitivity and Overstimulation Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE Subscribe on iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Subscribe on Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#18
Dec 8, 2025 · 1 hr 51 min
One Year Anniversary Show!
It's the one-year anniversary of the Dual Comm Podcast. Thank you for such an incredible year. In this episode we talk about the origin of the show with a cool surprise, then revisit some of our favorite topics from the first year and how our perspectives have shifted. We also dive into games that hit at the right place and right time, taking breaks before burnout even begins, and share some of our favorite games from the last year along with our goals for 2026. Thanks for making this such a great year. We appreciate you all. Disclosure: I received a free review copy of The Outer Worlds 2 from Xbox / Microsoft. Show Links: Taking a break from a certain type of gaming instead of being frustrated: https://demodisc.zone/t/taking-a-break-from-mainstream-gaming/251 Chapters 00:00:00 The Origin Of the Dual Comm Podcast + Surprise 00:05:35 Demo Discs Are Amazing & Should Return 00:19:40 Favorite Moments From Dual Comm Year 1 01:06:19 Games In The Right Place At The Right Time? 01:19:40 Taking Breaks Before Burn Out Sets In 01:27:45 Netflix Trying To Buy Warner Bros. 01:33:17 Surprise Topic #2 01:39:20 Free Prime & Epic Games 01:42:00 Favorite Game Of 2025 & Goals For 2026 Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#17
Nov 14, 2025 · 2 hr 9 min
Take Back Your Digital Freedom & Privacy
This episode dives into why digital freedom and ownership matter more than ever. We quickly revisit the value of the PS4 in 2025, the importance and benefits of physical media, how to back up your PC games, and the smart TV settings you should turn off right now. From there we talk about Xbox trying to compete with TikTok, Windows 11 frustrations pushing people toward Linux, and practical ways to take back your digital freedom and build healthier tech habits. We also explore whether there are simply too many games to keep up with now, talk about Amazon’s failed attempt to rival Steam, and share Prime Gaming titles worth downloading today. Later we get into how everything online is starting to feel like advertising, then wrap up with TimeSplitters Rewind, fresh PS5 news, and the reveal of the new PlayStation gaming monitor. Thanks for listening. Chapters 00:00:00 PS4 Is Still Awesome 00:11:00 Physical Media Mega Discussion Begins 00:13:00 How To Make Physical Copies Of Your PC Games 00:18:00 Your Smart TV Is Spying On You, Turn This Off Now 00:30:00 Xbox Competing With TikTok?! 00:39:00 Windows 11 Issues Motivating Linux Movement 00:48:00 Take Back Your Digital Freedom, Empower Your Tech Usage 01:00:28 Are There Too Many Games Now? 01:20:58 Amazon Failed To Compete With Steam 01:25:05 Prime Games To Download Now 01:25:50 Amazon Gaming Did Not Understand Steam 01:33:54 Everything Is Advertising 01:45:43 TimeSplitters Rewind Looks Awesome 01:48:00 PS5 News and PlayStation Monitor Preview Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking Show Links: Lost Save's PS4 Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RkCloXWp378 EVERYONE is misunderstanding "Xbox has to compete with TikTok": https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2025/10/29/satya-nadellas-plan-to-take-on-tiktok-with-xbox-makes-no-sense/ Your TV Is Spying On You. Turn These Settings Off: https://www.consumerreports.org/electronics/privacy/how-to-turn-off-smart-tv-snooping-features-a4840102036/ Are There Too Many Games?: https://bsky.app/profile/benjedwards.com/post/3m5aa2a3alc2f Amazon Lays Off Entire Gaming Division: https://bsky.app/profile/catacalypto.bsky.social/post/3m4cbunnsss2j https://bsky.app/profile/letitmelo.bsky.social/post/3m4bxweqs3k2u Everything Is Advertising: https://bsky.app/profile/lukeplunkett.com/post/3m5adneejhs2h TimeSplitters Rewind: https://www.timesplittersrewind.com/ PS5 PC Cross-Buy Discovery: https://insider-gaming.com/a-ps5-pc-cross-buy-option-has-been-discovered-verified/ PlayStation Store Dynamic Pricing Reports: https://www.reddit.com/r/playstation/s/lXW7qPfGDY https://twistedvoxel.com/playstation-experimenting-with-dynamic-game-pricing/ https://www.notebookcheck.net/PlayStation-Store-dynamic-pricing-criticized-as-sale-prices-on-PS5-games-vary-by-account.1156025.0.html The New PlayStation Gaming Monitor: https://blog.playstation.com/2025/11/11/first-look-at-playstations-27-gaming-monitor/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE Subscribe on iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Subscribe on Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc
#16
Oct 24, 2025 · 1 hr 31 min
PS4's HUGE Value, When to Let Go, Critical Reflection
This week in the Dual Comm Podcast we discuss the games we've been playing recently, and the TV & movies we've been watching. We then shift to discussions about the PlayStation 5's unique features and why PlayStation 6 may be facing an uphill PR battle to earn buy in. Then we talk about the absolute immense value the PlayStation 4 offers players right now. Finally we talk about gaming nostalgia and the current algorithm trends, finishing with the discussion of reflection and third places and memories. Thanks for listening. Chapters: 00:00:00 Intro - 1 Year Of Dual Comm Almost 00:04:31 What Games & Media Have You Been Playing And Watching 00:16:33 PlayStation 5 Graphics Discussion 00:28:57 Does PlayStation 6 Have Perception Challenge? 00:39:11 The Amazing Value Of The PS4 00:46:54 Are Creators Turning Nostalgia Into A Meme? 01:04:17 We Leave A Part Of Ourselves Behind Dual Comm Party Chat Episode 2: https://youtu.be/-1dOITdMaOk?si=IQL5Pzqb6qQyvUOQ We leave a part of ourselves behind: https://youtu.be/vejSywwFq7Q?si=wTyOAtv8MeuWqhi6 Links discussed in today's show: https://insider-gaming.com/ea-shuts-down-call-of-duty-inspired-battlefield-6-portal-maps/ https://www.pushsquare.com/news/2025/10/ps5-has-been-special-thanks-to-ssd-dualsense-features-rather-than-visuals https://www.pushsquare.com/news/2025/10/even-i-cant-tell-the-difference-shuhei-yoshida-thinks-ps6-needs-something-other-than-just-more-power Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#15
Oct 7, 2025 · 1 hr 51 min
Game Pass Price Hike Reveals Value of Ownership
On this episode we talk about the Xbox Game Pass subscription price increase and subsequently we then talk about what happens when you start ditching subscriptions and actually own the things you love again. From Jellyfin to physical media, there’s a real sense of freedom that comes with taking back control of what you watch and play. We dig into why old games feel so good right now, how subscription fatigue is shaping modern gaming, and why shorter, more personal play sessions might be the best thing you can do for yourself. Then we answer some great viewer comments. Thanks for listening! Chapters: 00:00:00 New Show "Party Chat" 00:03:54 Xbox Removed From Retailers 00:14:00 Ditching Subscription Services – Taking Ownership Back with Jellyfin and Physical Media 00:31:00 Game Pass Price Hike and the Future of Access-Based Gaming 00:34:00 Why Old Games Feel So Good Right Now 00:42:00 The Power of Personal Choice in Gaming 00:45:00 How Daydreaming Died – Escaping Peripheral Hobby Burnout 00:52:03 Epos’ Steam Sale Recommendations 00:56:52 Secret Topic – Game Difficulty and Player Expectations 01:04:00 Relearning How to Just Play and Stop Optimizing the Fun Out 01:07:04 The Power of Short Sessions and Rediscovering Flow 01:18:50 Viewer Comment – Gears of War: E-Day and Franchise Stagnation 01:35:53 Viewer Comment – Live Service Games Are the TikTok of Gaming Video we discussed regarding old games and personal connection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rae6dQ18E4Q Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#14
Sep 16, 2025 · 1 hr 48 min
How To RELAX With Video Games Again
In this episode we dig into why Souls games feel so challenging when life gets stressful, and how frustration can shape the way we approach gaming. We also talk about the end of console uniqueness, why Steam quietly won the console war, and what it means for how we choose platforms going forward. From there we get into the question of whether games are really relaxing or if they’re actually stimulation, and why that matters for how we spend our free time. We react to the new Switch 2 Direct and the familiar pull of FOMO, while trying to keep things grounded in what really matters. We share thoughts on the different types of gamers out there, and how our identities around competition and casual play have changed over the years. Finally, we wrap on why intrinsic fun is worth chasing over external rewards, and how that shift might be the healthiest way to keep enjoying games as adults. Thanks for listening! Chapters: 00:00:00 The Challenge of Souls Games & Finding Joy in Difficulty 00:21:18 Steam Won the Console War – Consoles Feel the Same Now 00:41:00 Choosing Your Platform: What Matters Most Going Forward 00:57:00 Games as Stimulation, Not Passive Relaxation 01:01:00 Switch 2 Direct Reactions & Handling FOMO 01:05:25 What Kind of Gamer Are You? 01:15:45 Playing for Fun: Intrinsic Rewards Over External Pressure Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#13
Aug 6, 2025 · 2 hr 13 min
Why You’ve Lost Your Focus and How to Get It Back
Why does it feel like our focus is constantly under attack—and what can we actually do about it? In this episode of the Dual Comm Podcast, we dig into the quiet, everyday battles for our attention, from endless phone scrolling to multitasking ourselves into brain fog. We talk about the lost joy of doing one thing at a time, the value of being bored, and how simple habits—like listening to an album start to finish or playing a game without a second screen—can help restore our attention span. We also get into the comeback of physical media, why buying CDs and ripping DVDs has become unexpectedly satisfying, and how infinite streaming choice might be making us less happy. Later in the episode, we talk Halo 3 playlist design, why modern FPS games miss the mark on fun, and a productivity warning signal to watch out for. It’s part nostalgia, part reflection, and part reminder that the best way to protect your focus might be to slow down, log off, and embrace the quiet moments. #gaming #gamingvideos Links to: Hutch's Florence & The Machine Montage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ft4oAPA6DQY Bnet Archive: https://bnetarchive.haloman30.com/contente5a6.html?type=topnews&link=h3matchmaking Chapters: 00:00:00 AAA Gaming Has Hit a Wall 00:12:30 Blanding: Why Everything Looks the Same Now 00:26:33 Why We're Buying Physical Media Again 00:31:50 The Joy (and Value) of Being Bored 00:43:30 The Lost Art of Truly Focusing on One Thing 01:15:00 Halo 3’s Magic and Why Older FPS Games Gave Us More 01:58:00 Brain Fog: Symptom or Something Bigger? Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#12
Jul 18, 2025 · 2 hr 10 min
The Truth About What Gamers Actually Play
What do gamers actually play—and why does it feel like the industry doesn’t want you to know? In this episode of the Dual Comm Podcast, we dig into real player numbers from Steam and talk about how the myth of “dead genres” doesn’t match reality. StarCraft II, Age of Empires, Stardew Valley, Cyberpunk 2077—these games are thriving, but you'd never know it from industry press releases or marketing cycles. We also get into the hardware side of gaming: Why are $70 controllers still built to fail? Why won’t Nintendo, Sony, or Microsoft use Hall effect sticks when $40 third-party options already do? And is modern hardware becoming disposable by design? Later in the episode, we dive into Steam sale pickups, how we actually find good games in a sea of noise, and why the Steam review system might be better than YouTube or Metacritic. We also talk about what we’ve been playing—Tomb Raider, Guardians of the Galaxy, Stardew Valley, Horizon Zero Dawn—and how personal taste still matters more than algorithmic trends. Finally, we wrap with a discussion about intentionality, tech FOMO, and resisting the pressure to chase new hardware. Do we really want a Steam Deck or Switch 2, or are we just dreaming about time we don’t have? Thanks for listening. Chapters: 00:00:00 What Steam Charts Reveal About Real Gamer Behavior 00:30:00 The Steam Review System Might Be Better Than YouTube 00:46:45 What We Bought (and Learned) in the Steam Summer Sale 01:19:19 $70 Controllers vs. $40 Fixes – Why Hall Effect Isn’t Standard 01:40:00 Tech FOMO and the Struggle to Game Intentionally Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc Follow us on YouTube: @bbkdragoon | @EposVox | @lostsaves | @NeuroSpicy.Cooking
#11
Jun 17, 2025 · 1 hr 50 min
The Golden Age of Small Games Is Back
The golden age of small games is officially back. In this episode of the Dual Comm Podcast, we kick things off with Haste—a tiny game with massive heart that might just be our game of the year. We dive into why it’s such a perfect session experience, how the new Disaster Mode changes things up, and what makes it feel like a future classic. We also break down the Steam Next Fest demos and highlight our favorite upcoming indies, from VOID/BREAKER to Dead as Disco to Pipistello and the Cursed Yo-Yo. This Next Fest felt like a true renaissance for handheld-friendly, creative games that don’t waste your time—and we’re here for it. Other topics include the reveal of the Xbox ROG Ally handheld, the rise of PC handhelds and how they’re reshaping where and how we play, and why Google Search is quietly becoming unusable. We talk about what’s broken, what’s changing, and how we’re shifting our habits away from algorithm rot and back toward intentional play. Plus: the decline of live service FPS games and why Doom 2016 still looks incredible. Subscribe to @bbkdragoon @EposVox @lostsaves @NeuroSpicy.Cooking Chapters: 00:00:00 – Why Haste Is One of the Best Games of the Year 00:07:58 – Xbox’s New Handheld: ROG Ally X and What It Means 00:18:32 – Steam Next Fest Demos That Blew Us Away 00:38:51 – Game Preservation, Platform Walls, and Xbox on PlayStation 00:52:42 – Google Search Is Basically Broken Now 01:25:23 – Does Doom 2016 Actually Look Better Than The Dark Ages? Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321
#10
May 21, 2025 · 1 hr 36 min
The Dark Ages Of Console Gaming?
Doom The Dark Ages looks great—but the way it’s being released tells us a lot about where console gaming is headed. In this episode, we share our impressions of Doom's latest entry, the physical disc controversy, and how this all ties into the growing divide between PC and console ecosystems. We also break down why PC gaming in 2025 feels smarter than ever, the slow death of physical media (and who’s to blame), Xbox’s pricing moves, Nintendo’s new Switch terms, the rise of GameCube games on PC, and the future of game development. Thanks for listening! #gaming #gamingvideos Subscribe to @EposVox and @lostsaves Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Doom The Dark Ages First Impressions 00:29:00 – Doom TDA Isn’t Really on the Disc—And That’s a Problem 00:35:00 – The Death of Physical Media Is Hurting Console Gamers 00:42:26 – Why PC Gaming Makes So Much Sense in 2025 01:10:45 – GameCube Decomp Projects Are Wild 01:14:30 – Gears of War on PS5 01:24:30 – AA & Indie Games Shine on PC Handhelds 01:30:00 – There’s Still So Much to Love in Gaming Subscribe on your favorite platform: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc
#9
May 1, 2025 · 1 hr 35 min
Expedition 33 and the Return of Amazing Games
Expedition 33 genuinely reminded us why we love games — not because it's a massive AAA production, but because it has soul, smart systems, and feels like it was made by people who actually care. That kicked off a much bigger conversation: are we entering a quiet renaissance of great AA games? In this episode, we talk about how mid-budget games like Expedition 33 are doing what the big-budget blockbusters often don’t. These are games that respect your time, play great out of the gate, and remind you what makes gaming fun in the first place. We also look at how Game Pass, especially on PC, is quietly delivering some of the best value in gaming right now — from day-one drops like Indiana Jones and the Oblivion Remaster to upcoming hits like Doom: The Dark Ages. Xbox Series X, though? It might be feeling a little left behind. Subscribe to Lost Saves https://www.youtube.com/@lostsaves Topics in this episode: Expedition 33 and the rise of soulful AA games Game Pass is quietly crushing it for PC players Is the Xbox Series X already aging out? Do you need to beat a game to truly appreciate it? EA layoffs and why AAA development keeps struggling The absurd state of mobile gaming in 2025 Our thoughts on the Marathon alpha and the direction of multiplayer FPS games Timecodes: 00:00:00 Expedition 33 Is Incredible 00:15:00 – The Rise of Great AA Games 00:22:27 – Game Pass Is Quietly Delivering 00:29:00 – Is the Xbox Series X Already Aging Out? 00:40:39 – Do You Need to Beat a Game to Truly Appreciate It? 01:01:45 – EA Layoffs & the AAA Struggle 01:21:55 – The Wild State of Mobile Gaming Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dual-comm-podcast/id1781108219 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ls95EviV2hcBBnufcZ5ZE Subscribe on iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/240902321 Subscribe on Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5752977a-04fd-4198-b7e3-2a25665b98fc

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