Mass Effect Dead and Skate Studio Gutted

Rubrik, a security and AI operations company, emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive cyber resilience platform that focuses on recovery after attacks rather than just prevention. The discussion highlights the rapid evolution of the threat landscape due to AI, making it crucial for businesses to have automated recovery systems in place to maintain operations during crises.

The conversation shifts to the recent success of a sold-out event at Carnegie Hall, where attendees from various countries gathered to connect over shared interests. The hosts reflect on the camaraderie fostered through their community, particularly through their Discord channel, which helped attendees overcome social anxieties and form new friendships.

In a significant industry update, Bioware announces the cancellation of the next Mass Effect game amid broader cuts at EA, which is undergoing a major transition after being sold to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. The hosts lament the decline of Bioware, once a legendary studio known for iconic titles like Baldur's Gate and Dragon Age, attributing its struggles to mismanagement and shifting industry trends. They express concern over the future of AAA game development, emphasizing the need for a more sustainable model in an increasingly expensive market.

Lastly, the hosts share news about a new permanent Pokémon retail store set to open in London by 2029, marking the first such store outside Asia since 2005. They discuss the excitement surrounding Pokémon merchandise and the challenges of managing demand from fans and resellers alike.

Andy Chris and Jordan have just about recovered from VGC: Live - and they're here to talk layoffs.

VGC: The Video Games Podcast brings you the latest stories and talking points in video games and console gaming, from Xbox to Playstation and every game in between. Subscribe for new podcasts every single week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.