What’s Left of/at Xbox? – Unlocked 748
Summary
Podcast Unlocked hosts Ryan McCaffrey and Michael Haim, joined by guest MC Fixer, discuss the potential closure of Undead Labs and cancellation of State of Decay 3. They critique Xbox’s stewardship and analyze Asha’s strategic pivot toward tentpole IPs like Halo and Fallout. The group debates fast-tracking development by assigning major franchises to external studios, such as ID Software, to ensure consistent releases.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Alienware, Quince, and Factor
Intro: World Cup, Xbox Fiscal Year, and State of Decay 3 Concerns
State of Decay 3: Development History and Fan Frustration
Xbox's Studio Management and the 'Hands-Off' Approach
Bethesda, Obsidian, and the Future of RPG Development
Halo Studios, ID Software, and a Proposed Reboot Strategy
Arcane Lyon, Blade Cancellation, and Immersive Sim Decline
Kojima's OD, IO Interactive's Fantasy Game, and PS6 Disc Drive
Outro: Community, Humble Bundle, and Sign Off
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