Video Games 2 the MAX - podcast cover

Video Games 2 the MAX

Sean Garmerw2mnet.com
Video Games 2 the MAX features a longtime veteran of Games Journalism, Sean Garmer along with either semi-regular co-host and long-time video game reviewer, Marc Morrison or even a guest co-host to discuss everything involving Video Games each week.

This includes the games they are playing or reviewing, all the big news of the week in gaming, a special topic, and even some Movies or TV Show topics at times as well. All from the viewpoint of gaming content creators, gaming journalists, and gaming consumers too. 

The podcast also appears in video form on the W2M Network Youtube channel: (https://www.youtube.com/@W2MNetwork/). Be sure to check out https://w2mnet.com/ for posts about each podcast and more.

You can check out Sean's writing over at: https://www.theouterhaven.net/ 

You can check out Sean's reviews over at: https://opencritic.com/critic/8257/sean-garmer

You can also check out all of Marc's reviews over at: https://411mania.com/games

You can also follow each of the guys individually on Twitter or Bluesky @W2MSean, @humanityplague, or the entire network @W2MNetwork.
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Episodes

Diablo IV Beta Impressions, CMA Makes a Decision in the Xbox & ABK Merger # 343

With GDC 2023 and PAX East 2023 in the rearview mirror, there's been plenty of announcements coming off the heels of those events taking place such as Counter Strike 2, Sonic Origins Plus, and a dark TMNT game based on the Last Ronin comic too? Not to mention, Blizzard put out two versions of a Diablo IV beta, which Marc played, and he has some thoughts on the game that is a little more than three months away from launch. The UK's CMA has also reached a form of a verdict in relation the console ...

Mar 28, 20231 hr 57 min

WWE 2K23 Review, Octopath Traveler 2 & Have a Nice Death Impressions # 342

On a week that is kind of lite on actual gaming news, Sean and Marc have quite a few video games to discuss on this episode of Video Games 2 the MAX. Marc has been playing WWE 2K23, how is it compared to last year's game? What about the John Cena showcase and My GM Mode? And what's with this crazy version of the WWE roster that's in the game? Sean has also put about 10 hours into Octopath Traveler 2 and gone through several Chapter 1 stories and one Chapter 2 story, is it truly worth all the hyp...

Mar 22, 20232 hr 19 min

PSVR 2 Review w/ Kyle Simcox from The Outerhaven & RE4 Remake Demo Thoughts # 341

We have a guest on this week's Video Games 2 the MAX, as Kyle Simcox writer from theouterhaven.net (@TheOuterhaven) joins Sean and Marc to give his review of the PlayStation VR 2. He's also been playing Wild Hearts and Hogwarts Legacy too. Sean has initial impressions on Oni: Road to be the Mightiest Oni and he has final thoughts on A Space For the Unbound after beating the game. Also, he enjoyed the RE 4 Remake Chainsaw demo too. Marc also explores the wacky world of having a PS3 dev kit. In th...

Mar 13, 20231 hr 59 min

Final Fantasy XVI Not Your Traditional FF, Elden Ring DLC Incoming! # 340

Final Fantasy XVI received big previews, and a new Dragon Ball Z Tenkaichi and Elden Ring DLC were announced since the last show, so that means Sean and Marc have plenty to discuss on this episode of Video Games 2 the MAX. While Marc ponders what could be in the Elden Ring DLC, Shadows of the Erd Tree, Sean wonders if Final Fantasy XVI will sell the outrageous numbers that Square-Enix desires by going full Action RPG and finally shedding the last of its roots. Or could this complete embrace of s...

Mar 07, 20231 hr 53 min

Like a Dragon Ishin & Atomic Heart Impressions, Pokemon Presents Reactions! # 339

Sean and Marc go through another week in Video Games with both having early impressions of Like a Dragon: Ishin and the retail version of Theatrhythm Final Bar Line. Does Ishin continue the fun and crazy legacy of the other formerly Yakuza games? Does the Samurai aspect translate to more than just fans of the series? How much of an entry point into the wide world of Like a Dragon is this? Sean also has some early thoughts on the controversial Atomic Heart. The Bioshock-inspired game dropped last...

Feb 28, 20231 hr 46 min

Wanted Dead Review, Wild Hearts Impressions, Does Xbox Game Pass Actually Hurt Game Sales? # 338

Well, it is again that time of the week for a new Video Games 2 the MAX. Sean and Marc discuss some of the games they’ve been playing, what’s in the news and more. Sean has put a chunk of time into Wanted: Dead the newest title from developers behind two of his favorite franchises, Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive. Should this be another celebrated title from them? Or is it more of a misfire? The truth lies probably somewhere in the middle actually. He also gave the Wild Hearts trial a go and the ...

Feb 21, 20231 hr 45 min

Hogwarts Legacy First Impressions, Nintendo Direct Breakdown, Zelda $70 # 337

On the latest episode, Sean and Marc are joined by Jens Dietrich as he gives his thoughts and impressions of his time with Hogwarts Legacy. Does it live up to the hype brought on by the mammoth franchise? Is it unique for fans of the series? Could non-fans play it as well? Jens answers these questions, and much more. (* Writer's Note: We are fully aware of the issues brought on by the creator and author of the Harry Potter IP against the LGBTQIA + community, specifically comments that have been ...

Feb 15, 20231 hr 46 min

Theatrhythm Final Bar Line Demo Impressions, Forspoken Review # 336 Pt 2

Sean and Marc are back with a two-part episode of Video Games 2 the MAX. On Part 2, Sean's been playing the newly released DEMO for the upcoming Theatrhythm: Final Bar Line. How does the former handheld-only Final Fantasy Music game translate to TV-based consoles? Has anything changed with the gameplay in the transition? And is it still just as fun as the previous games? Marc has played about 15 hours of Forspoken and he has some thoughts. Is the cool parkour and magic powers enough to overcome ...

Feb 14, 20231 hr 23 min

Hi-Fi Rush and Fire Emblem Engage Reviews # 336 Pt 1

Sean and Marc are back with a two-part episode of Video Games 2 the MAX. On Part 1, the guys delve into the Xbox Developer Direct and discuss what was announced, what they liked and maybe weren't so hot about. Plus, Sean played the shadow-dropped, HI-FI Rush and absolutely LOVES It! He discusses his first impressions of the game, what makes it stand out, and why it could wind up as one of the best games of 2023. Marc has been playing Fire Emblem Engage and he's maybe not as enthused compared to ...

Feb 14, 20231 hr 9 min

Our VERY LATE 25 Best Video Games of 2022 Episode

Yeah, it's almost the middle of February, so what? Better late than never right? Sean and Marc with a little help from regular guests of the show bring you our 25 Best Video Games of 2022. Will it be Elden Ring or God of War Ragnarok taking the crown? What about other major titles from the year such as Xenoblade Chronicles 3, Horizon Forbidden West, and Vampire Survivors? Will a Pokemon game actually make it in? There are so many games that come out every year, but it is always exciting to see w...

Feb 14, 20231 hr 8 min

One Piece Odyssey Impressions, 343 Industries Suffers Big Layoffs - VG2M # 335

2023 in gaming has officially begun with some major releases, One Piece Odyssey, and some smaller ones, including Space for the Unbound. Sean has some significant impressions of both titles. Unfortunately, the big tech layoffs have hit Xbox and Bethesda, especially for many at 343 Industries, which has put the future of the Halo franchise in doubt. Marc wonders if this is more of the same bad news for Microsoft, especially when paired with the news that Google and NVIDIA have also voiced concern...

Jan 28, 20231 hr 24 min

Could Final Fantasy IX Remake Actually Be Happening? Our Most Anticipated Games of 2023 - VG2M # 334

This episode was originally recorded on January 7, 2023... (Sean is having a hard time finding computer access to edit due to his living situation. Also, apologies, Sean was sick during the recording so there are some audible sniffles here and there.) Sean and Marc are back to discuss the possibility of getting that long-rumored Final Fantasy IX Remake, but that may not be the only one, as there are now rumors of a Persona 3 Remake as well. Sony also took to CES to make some big announcements in...

Jan 26, 20231 hr 17 min

Crisis Core FF 7 Reunion Impressions, The God of War TV Show Seems EPIC - VG2M # 333

Originally Recorded on 12/21/22. This is just a straight up goof. Sean thought he had posted the audio version and turns out he did not. Unfortunately, due to further personal issues for Sean, we haven’t been able to keep a set schedule, but at least we do have another episode of Video Games 2 the MAX for ya. Although the Game Awards have passed, there’s been quite a bit of fallout from it that isn’t just the announcements and awards, (although the guys are going to discuss some of their favorit...

Jan 07, 20231 hr 34 min

Sonic Frontiers, World of Warcraft: Dragonflight, Xbox is now doing $70 Games - VG2M # 332

It has been one thing or another with personal issues for Sean over the last month that's kept us from recording an episode. However, prior to the Game Awards we did do an episode with Sean, Marc, and Daniel. Obviously, the award show has already passed, but if you'd like, you can go to the 1 hour and 9 min mark and listen to who we thought would win in most of the major categories including Game of the Year. Also on this episode, we discuss Microsoft's big announcement that they are officially ...

Dec 11, 20221 hr 34 min

God of War Ragnarok Impressions, Favorite Nintendo Indie World Games - VG2M # 331

Marc has been playing God of War Ragnarok and has some thoughts after about 15 hours through the game. Nintendo had another indie world showcase so you know Sean has some favorite games that were shown off. Plus, Final Fantasy XVI controversy, Control 2 is official, there's a Gears of War movie and animated series coming, rumors abound of a Horizon MMO, the guys lament the sad passing of the voice of Batman, Kevin Conroy, Sean has thoughts on Marvel Snap and more. You can also watch this episode...

Nov 13, 20221 hr 48 min

Is the PSVR 2 Price ($549) Too High? Xbox Game Pass & PS Plus Trend Down - VG2M # 330

Sony has finally revealed the price and release date of the PlayStation VR 2 or PSVR 2. Retailing for a whopping $549 and out on February 22, 2023. Is the price too high? Or is it fair considering the market that's out there for VR currently? What is the launch lineup looking like and will Sean or Marc even venture to get one at some point? Financials are out for many gaming companies, but namely the two big ones, Xbox and PlayStation see downtrends in subscribers or growth for consoles at least...

Nov 06, 20221 hr 18 min

Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope Impressions, Big Silent Hill Announcements - VG2M # 329

Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is OUT! And Marc has been playing it. Marc gives his impressions of it, having finished about half the game. Have the gameplay changes been for the better? How's the Overworld? Are the talking Rabbids as hilarious as we'd expect? Yeah, I have a lot of questions. Plus, is it better than the original? Silent Hill's presentation had quite a lot to announce, and although most of it was things we guessed would happen, it is still pretty cool to be getting a Silent Hill...

Oct 25, 20221 hr 31 min

Gotham Knights & Bayonetta 3 Controversies, A Sad Ending for G4 - VG2M # 328

Two upcoming games are causing a big stir this week for different reasons. Gotham Knights running at 30 FPS instead of 60 FPS sends gamers into a tizzy because it isn't the peak performance one would expect from a Current gen game. Sean, Marc, and Daniel discuss and debate their stance on the subject and if 30 FPS games could still be happening even further into this console generation. Bayonetta 3 also featured in its own controversy with the past voice of the lead character, Hellena Taylor, sa...

Oct 20, 20221 hr 44 min

Overwatch 2 Launch Impressions And Issues, Would You Buy an Xbox Streaming Device? - VG2M # 327

Another week in video games and another week that revolves around Microsoft and Activision-Blizzard. Whether it is Brazil approving the Microsoft acquisition of ABK, Overwatch 2 launching with various issues, or even Call of Duty also forcing people to use a mobile device there are certainly a lot of talking points for Sean and Marc to mull over. Marc did run into some issues, but he's also played Overwatch 2 and gives out his Launch Impressions on this episode. Would You buy an Xbox Streaming D...

Oct 13, 20221 hr 13 min

The Polarizing Horizon Zero Dawn Remake, More Cyberpunk 2077 & More Witcher - VG2M # 326

CD Projekt Dropped some HUGE news confirming they are working on a brand new IP, an entire second Witcher trilogy, two other Witcher projects being developed by other studios, and even a sequel to Cyberpunk 2077 as well called Project Orion. Sean and Marc discuss their thoughts on this bold initiative by the company to just announce it all at once and if this will lead to redemption for the studio. Sony and Microsoft's battle over the Activision-Blizzard-King deal continues with each side having...

Oct 08, 20221 hr 32 min

Google Stadia Shutdown, Overwatch 2, Skull & Bones Delayed AGAIN - VG2M # 325

On this edition of the show, Sean and Marc discuss Google Stadia shutting down, is this more of Google expecting more than they should have, what went wrong? And what does it say about Cloud Gaming? Even with Logitech and Razer both announcing Cloud Gaming Devices. Is it possible Microsoft could do their own Game Pass Handheld? Also, Skull & Bones is Delayed AGAIN by Ubisoft and this time it won't be released until March 2023. Will the game actually see release? And could there be some kind ...

Oct 01, 20221 hr 14 min

New Iron Man Game Revealed, Valkyrie Elysium Demo, Big GTA 6 Leak - VG2M # 324

On this episode, Sean, Marc, and Daniel discuss the announcement of a new Iron Man game in development at EA's Motive studio. There's a rumor going around of a new PlayStation 5 SKU with a detachable disc drive. Also, sadly mass layoffs occur at G4 and gaming outlet Fanbyte. Someone leaked Grand Theft Auto VI and now even the F.B.I. is involved. Dan Allen Gaming outed himself as the "Real Insider." The Yakuza name is no more, it's all about Like a Dragon, at least there are more games coming in ...

Sep 22, 20221 hr 37 min

Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Revealed, Bonnie Ross Leaves 343 - VG2M # 323

Originally Recorded in the early hours of Wednesday 09/14/22. It is out late this week due to Sean having to go to his Grandfather's Viewing and Funeral within two consecutive days. Well, to put it mildly, this week was announcement mania. No less than four showcases have taken place since the last time we recorded an episode. So obviously there is a lot to discuss and go through. Sean, Marc, and Daniel discuss their favorite announcements and things they are looking forward to from each one. We...

Sep 16, 20221 hr 44 min

Sony and Microsoft's Inadequate COD Deal, Horror Game Franchises Returning - VG2M # 322

Originally recorded in the early morning of 09/08/22. Sean had a death in the family shortly before recording this episode which delayed the release of it. As the gaming world gears up for some big announcements within the next few weeks, the acquisitions and stock purchases of companies continue, as Tencent and Sony make payments to up their stake in Elden Ring developer From Software, while Tencent even does the same with Ubisoft making the rumors from a few weeks ago come true. Not to mention...

Sep 11, 20221 hr 57 min

Global PlayStation 5 Price Hike, Xbox & Sony Focusing on PC & Mobile - VG2M # 321

It's another week in video games and one that created controversy with Sony deciding that the PlayStation 5 should see a price hike in basically all major regions except the United States. Sean, Marc, and Daniel give their views on the decision if it's really needed, and what it says about Sony, especially in the face of Microsoft and Nintendo both stating they would not raise the price of their consoles. Sony also made another purchase, this time in the form of a Mobile game studio, Savage Game...

Aug 31, 20221 hr 31 min

Gamescom Opening Night Live 2022 Reactions, Embracer Group Buys Everything - VG2M # 320

Gamescom Opening Night Live 2022 had plenty of trailers and gameplay reveals, but what did Sean and Marc find most interesting from the showcase? How does it stack up to what Geoff Keighley has done with Summer Game Fest and Opening Night Live in the past? And what are the guys looking forward to for the rest of this year? Embracer Group made HUGE news with the purchase of the Lord of the Rings IP, Limited Run Games, Tripwire Interactive, and a whole lot more. Could there be more in store? And w...

Aug 24, 20221 hr 56 min

Hogwarts Legacy Delayed, Sony Keeping Games of Xbox Game Pass - VG2M # 319

Sony and Microsoft are in a now second week of the war of potshots and statements. Microsoft alleges Sony makes deals that effectively block big third-party games from appearing on Xbox Game Pass. While Microsoft proves just how unprofitable it would be to keep COD off Sony's platform. This will certainly have Sean, Marc, and Daniel in their feelings. Game Delays continue as now Hogwarts Legacy is the next big game that moves its release date to 2023. Some other smaller games also have to take t...

Aug 17, 20221 hr

Marvel Midnight Suns Delayed, Thymesia, Tekken 8 Teased - VG2M # 318

It is certainly a mixed bag of a week in gaming with yet another major third-party release seeing a delay, this time it is Marvel's Midnight Suns. While the EVO Live event possibly teased Tekken 8 and the first Fatal Fury game in 23 years. Plus, is Marvel doing too much content between their films and TV Shows? Sean, Marc, and Daniel give their thoughts on that, plus Xbox may be rolling out a new feature for Cloud Gaming Soon, an Xbox Game Pass Family Plan is actually being tested, and Ubisoft i...

Aug 11, 20221 hr 21 min

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Impressions, Batgirl Movie Canceled, Sony's Major Call of Duty Concerns Correct - VG2M # 317

On our latest episode, so is Call of Duty "nothing special?" or is it "indescribable?" These are the statements put out by Microsoft and Sony concerning whether or not it would be ok for Call of Duty to be owned by Xbox. Sean and Marc debate on who's right considering some other factors at play involving the franchise as well. Is it a good idea to have them skip a year? And is there really no way to have a COD competitor? Warner Bros. Discovery has apparently shelved Batgirl and it may be due to...

Aug 05, 20221 hr 37 min

KOTOR Remake in Trouble, Black Panther Game - VG2M # 316

This episode was originally recorded on July 27. Apologies for taking a little long to get it out to you all. We also do the podcast in video form on our Youtube channel and it gets out much quicker there: https://youtu.be/tpY5ZXpYmxo On this episode, there's quite a lot going on between the KOTOR remake having major issues to Ubisoft continuing to have delays and cancelations. VR also is a big fixture this week with Meta announcing a price hike and PSVR 2 getting another info drop as well. SDCC...

Aug 03, 20221 hr 25 min
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