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The video game industry is shifting. In this episode of Gaming with Grown Folks, I break down the historic Xbox leadership shakeup following Phil Spencer's retirement. What does a new AL-focused CEO mean for the future of your favorite Xbox studios?

Plus, I look at the harsh realities of the early 2026 gaming market, explore the hidden premium games on Apple Arcade that respect your time, and highlight the massive indie games completely redefining the medium this year. Whether you are gaming on a home console or your daily commute, there is something here for you.

In this episode, you will learn:

• What the new Microsoft Gaming leadership structure means for the core Xbox console experience.
• How to navigate the bittersweet balance of industry layoffs versus massive AAA game releases.
• The absolute best, ad-free Apple Arcade games to download right now.
• Why 2026 indie games like Slay the Spire 2, Mina the Hollower, and Cairn are must plays for adult gamers.

Join the conversation: What are you playing on your commute? What indie titles are taking up your weekend? Email the show at GamingGrownFolks@gmail.com and share your favorites. I'll read the best recommendations on the next episode.

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Episode 11: The Hardware Wars & The RPG Grind

The industry woke up this week. Jahdie is back in the studio to break down a massive week of announcements from both Sony and Nintendo that set the stage for the rest of 2026.

In this episode, we dive deep into the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase, highlighting the shadow drops you can play right now and the heavy hitters coming this summer. Then, we pivot to Sony's explosive State of Play, featuring the surprise reveal of a 2D God of War and the return of Kena.

Plus, we have a triple-threat review segment. Jahdie give his "Grown Folks" verdict on three major releases: the comedy shooter High on Life 2, the punishing Nioh 3, and the cozy, time-respecting Dragon Quest VII Reimagined.

In this episode:

• Sony State of Play: God of War: Sons of Sparta shadow drop, Kena: Scars of Kasmora, and the Metal Gear Solid 4 port.
• Nintendo Direct Breakdown: Hollow Knights updates, Indiana Jones on handheld, and Fallout 4 Anniversary Edition.
• Review: High on Life 2 (Xbox Series X) - Does the new skate mechanic save the comedy?
• Review: Dragon Quest VII Reimagined (Switch 2) - The perfect RPG for busy parents?
• Review: Nioh 3 (PS%) - Is the new "Open Field" combat worth the stress?

Connect with us:

• Email the show: GamingGrownFolks@gmail.com
• Music by: Jeremiah Daniel

Gaming with Grown Folks is the podcast for gamers with bias, back pain, and limited free time. We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.

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This episode Jahdie does a deep dive into the psychological horror of Resident Evil Requiem and a technical breakdown of the Nintendo Switch 2's biggest launch titles. We analyze Capcom's "Tension and Release" mechanics, discuss the time-bending combat of Code Vein II, and ask if the Xbox "3DO" strategy is a brilliant move or a disaster waiting to happen.

Plus, we debut a new segment, "Peanut Butter & Jelly", pairing Greenland 2 with ARC Raiders.

In this episode:

• News - Meta's VR retreat, High Guard's launch, and the $55 billion Sims-verse deal.
• The Xbox Pivot - Is Microsoft becoming the new 3DO? The pros and cons of third-party hardware.
• PS5 Previews - The "Spirit Weaver" stance in Nioh 3 and HD-2D overhaul of Dragon Quest VII Reimagined.
• Resident Evil Requiem - A deep dive into Grace vs. Leon and the "Hemolytic Injector" mechanics.
• Code Vein II - Reviewing the new time-shifting world and the "assimilation" combat system.
• Switch 2 Reviews - Animal Crossing in 4K and Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade performance analysis.
• Peanut Butter & Jelly - Why Greenlands 2: Migration is the perfect movie companion to ARC Raiders.

Email the show at GamingGrownFolks@gmail.com and tell us your "Peanut Butter & Jelly" movie/game combo! The music is provided by Jeremiah Daniel, whose music can be streamed on major platforms. Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcast to help us grow the "Grown Folks" community.

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