671: Eric Warner: Xbox 'reset' shake-up, Meta VR Glasses, Wardogs, Control Resonant, Wild West Pioneers, Farhaven, Shroom and Gloom, Gencon 2026
Summary
DLC hosts Jeff Kanata and Christian Spicer, joined by guest Eric Warner, discuss the severe consolidation and layoffs at Xbox Game Studios, analyzing the impact on institutional knowledge and future game development. The trio also examines the board game industry, highlighting how tariffs and rising costs are forcing publishers to adapt despite record consumer interest at events like Gen Con. Finally, the episode covers Meta’s announcement of new lightweight VR glasses set to launch in 2027, marking a shift toward a more accessible, multimedia-focused form factor.
Topics discussed
Sponsor: Aquaphor Moisturizing Cream
Intro, Patron shoutouts, and NYC anniversary trip
Story of the Week: Board game industry and Gen Con
Microsoft Xbox layoffs and studio restructuring
Sponsor: CVS Pharmacy
Meta's new AR glasses and VR market discussion
Sponsor: Las Culturistas
Playlist: War Dogs and Counter-Strike style games
Playlist: Wild West Pioneers city builder
Playlist: Control Resonant gameplay impressions
Playlist: Shroom and Gloom roguelite
Sponsor: Joyward Collection
Tabletop: Gen Con highlights and board game recs
Parting Gifts: Podcasts, Arcades, and Netflix
Bonus: Interview with Jacob Freeman on Control Resonant graphics
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