BoxTrick: A Retro Gaming Podcast · Video Games

Boxtrick: Ep 95 - The State of Gaming in 2024 with Jakejames Lugo

·1 hr 34 min·5 clips

Jake James Lugo challenges the notion that 2024 is the worst year in gaming, citing Call of Duty Black Ops 6 and other big releases.

Host Matt Brady (SuperGamesBros) is joined by returning guest Jake James Lugo to assess the current state of the video game industry in 2024. They examine whether this year feels like a downturn and explore broader business trends affecting developers and publishers. The conversation covers game releases, financial pressures, and the strategic positions of major platform holders. The hosts debate if 2024 is a slow year, with Matt feeling it's a letdown while Jake points to major releases like *Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth*, *Helldivers 2*, and *Call of Duty: Black Ops 6*. They note that companies like Sony and Ubisoft have publicly described the year as slow or financially disappointing for some titles. A significant portion of the discussion focuses on widespread industry layoffs, citing examples from Bungie and Microsoft as post-pandemic adjustments. The high cost of AAA development is highlighted, using *Spider-Man 2*'s reported $300 million budget as an example. Jake argues that Nintendo's longevity and approach of prioritizing quality over frequent releases make it an exception to many industry struggles. They speculate the next Nintendo console will be more powerful, potentially attracting more third-party support like *Grand Theft Auto VI*. The rise of PC handhelds like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally is seen as creating new competition and possibly influencing development baselines. The health of Xbox is questioned, with Jake dismissing fears it will become just a Game Pass service but criticizing its recent messaging. The tone is conversational and analytical, blending personal gaming perspectives with industry analysis. Listeners interested in gaming business trends, platform strategies, and critiques of the 2024 release calendar will find this episode engaging. Those seeking only game reviews or lighthearted discussion might find the focus on layoffs and financials less appealing.

As heard by us

A brisk gaming check-in that stays grounded even when the publisher talk gets messy.

Matt Brady and Jake James Lugo settle into an easy conversation about where gaming feels right now. It sounds lived in rather than rehearsed, and it works because both speakers know the space well enough to skip the obvious takes.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

Want a grounded state-of-gaming check with real industry chatter?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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