Press Row Podcast

With 2018 coming to a close the Press Row Podcast hands out its annual award for Sports Game of the Year! The panel for what is always one of the most anticipated episodes discuss the state of the genre, the strengths and weaknesses of the contenders, and then react to the final results.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)
Daniel Baesel, UberYTwitch (@danielbaesel)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_302.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:17pm EDT

It's that time! We gather the biggest racing games fans we know to determine the 2018 Press Row Podcast Racing Game of the Year. Experts Greg Sewart, David Benry, and Dr. Ken Parker join host Rich Grisham to count down their favorites, answer listener questions, and take a look back at racing games throughout the year. One of our favorite shows of the year is back!

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_301.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:01am EDT

The Press Row Podcast debuted in 2012 and 300 episodes later Rich Grisham, Bryan Wiedey, T.J. Lauerman, and Kris Jardine celebrate reaching the latest milestone by reminiscing and talking about the latest in sports gaming and more.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)
Kris Jardine, Snaggle J (@snagglej)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_300.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:19pm EDT

USgamer EIC Kat Bailey joins host Rich Grisham this week to talk about the sports games they've been playing, how the overall crop of games stack up this year, the impact of Sony leaving E3, and what the next 2 years or so may hold for sports video games.

On the show this week:
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
Kat Bailey, USgamer (@the_katbot)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_299.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:46am EDT

This week Bryan and Rich discuss how the various sports games are faring in the ultra-competitive marketplace that now also includes different forms of distribution, the NFL and Fortnite partnership, more Forza Horizon 4 and FIFA 19.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_298.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:10am EDT

As the Press Row Podcast approaches its 300th episode there's some reflection on its beginnings back in 2012. Discussion then turns to whether the sports games this year have proven to be boring or compelling, drilling into Forza Horizon 4 and Pro Evolution Soccer 2019, and whether the games are worth purchasing on day one given how quickly they are dropping in price. 

•Support the Extra Life fundraising event on Saturday, Nov 3

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
Daniel Baesel, UberYTwitch (@danielbaesel)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_297.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:22am EDT

This week's episode features our great friend - and official Press Row Podcast Racing Correspondent - Greg Sewart joining us to dive deep into Forza Horizon 4 now that it's been out in the world for a few weeks. How does it compare to past gems? Is it officially better than the mainline Forza franchise? Or has it lost its way? After Greg, a special bonus section features friends Jeff Riddolls and Adam Burnett chatting about Franchise Hockey Manager 5, the all-new hockey strategy game from Out of the Park Developments.

Thanks for listening!

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_296.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:42pm EDT

Bryan and Rich are back together to talk about the latest developments and stories from the sports gaming world, including why tattoos are part of a legal fight for Take Two and NBA 2K, what lies ahead for the season according to NBA 2K19, and Fight Night Champion being added to the EA Access Vault. 

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_295.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:28am EDT

It's a full plate for everyone on the show this week! Host Rich Grisham is joined by T.J. Lauerman and Kris Jardine to talk about the wide variety of sports game they're playing. From NBA 2K19 to Madden 19, NHL 19 to PES 2019, and some Forza Horizon 4 as well, there are more great games to play than time to play them. But the crew gives it their best shot!

On the show this week:
Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
T.J. Lauerman, Out of the Park Developments/ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)
Kris Jardine, Out of the Park Developments/Snaggle Club (@snagglej)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_294.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:22am EDT

This week Bryan and Rich catch up on all the different sports games on the scene right now and their two varying approaches to them. Also, they talk about the challenges that they do (or did) have as reviewers, and how the importance of reviews has changed as the gaming industry - and sports games in particular - have evolved. Plus! Our resident racing game expert Greg Sewart stops by in a bonus segment to dive into the new NASCAR Heat 3, and whether or not racing game fans should give it a shot.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
Greg Sewart, Player One Podcast (@sewart)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_293.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:43am EDT

It’s a special episode of the Press Row Podcast this week, featuring interviews with two influential and important people with similar tales of moving from the sports gaming community to the sports gaming development world.

Up first is Markus Frieske, who describes how he scouts for great creator talent, the reasons behind what he does, and how he moved from a contributor in the community to a highly influential creative supporter at EA.

Next is our great friend Nino Samuel, aka Da Czar, a producer of NBA 2K19. Czar dives deep into NBA 2K19 of course, and also talks about his journey from leading Sim Nation – advocating for the best sports gaming experience possible – to making it happen himself as part of the NBA 2K development team.

On the show this week:
Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
Nino Samuel, 2K Sports (@da_czar)
Markus Frieske, EA Sports (@markusfrieske)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_292.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:02pm EDT

The wave of sports games that release within a very condensed window in late summer is now fully upon us with a few more still to come on their heels. Discussion this week centers on those games have stood out and captured the focus of the panelists. That leads to extensive discussion on FIFA 19, Pro Evolution Soccer 2019, and NBA 2K19. Additionally some reaction to the latest news on the upcoming NBA 2K Playgrounds 2 which includes roster additions, release dates, and a higher price.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_291.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:16am EDT

This week features two great segments! Up first, we welcome NBA 2K19 Gameplay Producer Scott O'Gallagher back to the show to talk all about this year's game. We cover all the bases, from gameplay to online to history - and yes, Virtual Currency. That's followed by a deep dive into F1 2018 with our favorite racing expert Greg Sewart. Kick back and enjoy a double dip of sports game talk!

On the show this week:
Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
Scott O'Gallagher, 2K Sports (@ScottOGallagher)
Greg Sewart, Player One Podcast (@sewart)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_290.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:16am EDT

After a whole week away Rich Grisham is reunited with Bryan Wiedey to discuss the many sports games of September, first impressions of Pro Evolution Soccer 2019 and NBA 2K19, the current state of microtransactions, and what non-sports games are peaking interest in the near future.  

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, Out of the Park Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_289.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:40pm EDT

It was an incredibly busy week for sports games. The Golf Club 2019 and Pro Evolution Soccer 2019 released. NBA 2K19 has delivered The Prelude and NBA Live 19 is out through its EA Access trial. First impressions on those games and more are discussed in this episode of the Press Row Podcast, while the panel also finds time to express a high level of distress over the sheer number of quality games coming out in the next two months sports and otherwise.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)
Marc Foley, Doddcast (@raincitygamers)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_288.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:30pm EDT

News of the week is discussed in this episode of the Press Row Podcast, including details on a major patch for Madden NFL 19, trailer for MyCareer Mode in NBA 2K19, and comments from EA regarding the possibility of MVP Baseball making a long-awaited return. Before that Bryan and Rich update on progress with the Madden 19 Online Franchise and early returns from the experiment running with the Arcade setting combined with All-Pro difficulty and slider adjustments.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_287.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:26pm EDT

With several sports games nearing release the discussion in this episode of the Press Row Podcast centers on the two upcoming basketball games and the two soccer games. The first opportunity to play them comes even earlier, with Pro Evolution Soccer 2019's demo out already, a demo for NBA Live 19 and Prologue for NBA 2K19 expected before the month is up, and FIFA 19 a little farther out. How well are the games shaping up and what will the competition between them be like this year? Before all that, Bryan and Rich debate whether the Arcade gameplay style in Madden has become the best way to play.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Ep_286.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:02pm EDT

The multi-tiered release of Madden NFL 19 is now complete and the game is fully in the wild! After last week's 90 minutes of first impressions, this review roundtable episode of the Press Row Podcast features a full panel of sports game experts discussing everything to do with Madden NFL 19 - going through areas such as gameplay, Franchise, Ultimate Team, and Longshot.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Kat Bailey, USgamer (@the_katbot)
Daniel Baesel, UberYoutuber (@danielbaesel)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)
Owen Good, Polygon (@owengood)

Full written reviews for Madden NFL 19: Sporting News - USgamer - Polygon

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_285.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:56pm EDT

Madden NFL 19 has arrived for those with EA Access and Origin Access subscriptions and is now only days away from its official release. With his complete review out on Sporting News Pastapadre talks with Rich about the game including its strengths, weaknesses, and random observations. Franchise Mode, gameplay, presentation, graphics, Longshot, and much more are covered. A number of listener questions are also addressed. Additionally the controversy over EA Sports removing a reference to Colin Kaepernick from a song on the soundtrack is discussed.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_284.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:02pm EDT

Counting down our favorite sports video game soundtracks in this episode of the Press Row Podcast! Beyond making the picks, and going through some listener choices, the discussion also includes how the music was influential at the time and the way in which the importance of soundtracks has evolved over the years.

Additionally the news of the week is touched upon, with initial impressions of the NHL 19 open beta and thoughts on 2K Sports now acting as the publisher for NBA Playgrounds 2.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@ThatSportsGamer)
Kris Jardine, SnaggleJ (@SnaggleJ)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_283.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:49am EDT

Rich has returned from DC and the MLB All-Star festivities and shares thoughts on his experiences at the Home Run Derby, All-Star Game, and with the MLB HR Derby VR game.

Bryan and Rich then respond to listener questions, leading into discussions on hype levels for Madden NFL 19, intriguing teams to use in Franchise Mode, why there has been no news yet on NBA 2K19, whether 2K19 will outsell 2K18, what game has been the biggest disappointment this year, and the continued mystery of the delayed NBA Playgrounds 2.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_282.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:10am EDT

We look back on the NCAA Football franchise five years after the release of the final edition in the series, NCAA Football 14, on this episode of the Press Row Podcast. The discussion includes a recap of what led to the demise of college sports video games, whether a return is possible in the five years ahead and what would need to happen for that to occur, and the various challenges a video game developer faces with college sports beyond just the current legal complications. Finally, there's some reminiscing over favorite memories playing NCAA Football, from both the panelists and listeners who supplied theirs on Twitter this week.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Owen Good, Polygon (@owengood)

Supporting Articles:

The Reasons We Loved The NCAA Football Series (Polygon) 

Why NCAA Football (And College Sports) Video Games Haven't Returned After Five or More Years Absence (Sporting News)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_281.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:56pm EDT

Rich Grisham is joined by Kat Bailey this week to discuss the World Cup (both in real and virtual form) and look ahead to NHL 19, Madden NFL 19, FIFA 19 on Switch, and The Golf Club 2019.

On the show this week:
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Kat Bailey, USgamer (@the_katbot)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_280.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:47am EDT

This episode of the Press Row Podcast features extensive discussion on the brand new open-world racing game The Crew 2, a change to the commentary team for NBA Live 19, and the first player ratings for Madden NFL 19. Additionally listener questions are followed up on, which include thoughts on changes to the way games will be monitized going forward and what's happening with the mysteriously-delayed NBA Playgrounds 2.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Pete Dodd, The Doddcast (@atpetedodd)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_279.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:39pm EDT

Following the avalanche of video game news out of EA Play and E3 things in the sports gaming world calmed down for a few days. However it wasn't long until business picked back up with the official reveal of NHL 19 and new info on Madden NFL 19.

This episode of the Press Row Podcast includes discussion on NHL 19's new features and Madden NFL 19's presentation improvements, plus responses to a handful of listener questions on topics such as Madden's currently-running closed beta, cross-platform play, boxing games, and more!

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_278.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:23pm EDT

Publisher Electronic Arts held its annual EA Play press briefing on Saturday, including a first look at Madden NFL 19, FIFA 19 and NBA Live 19. Following the show additional details were provided on features for each of the respective games.

This special edition of the Press Row Podcast covers all the news from the event which includes Madden making a return to the PC after an absence of over a decade, the return of Longshot story mode for a second season, how the Madden trailer seemed awfully familiar, confirmation of FIFA securing the UEFA Champions League license, NBA Live 19 doubling down on The One career mode, and much more. We also debut the segment "Rich's Fashion Corner" for critiques of how presenters were dressed this year.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_277.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:48am EDT

Before the avalanche of news comes from EA Play and E3 the latest developments in the sports gaming world are discussed in this episode of the Press Row Podcast. Among those topics are NBA 2K19's reveal of the 20th Anniversary Edition (strangely for its 19th year) and who will find the $100 package worth buying, plus Terrell Owens, cover athlete for the Hall of Fame Edition of Madden NFL 19, has decided not to attend the enshrinement ceremony and how that could affect EA Sports' marketing plans. 

Then Rich Grisham has a fascinating hour long talk with Metalhead Software's Scott Drader on the fantastic Super Mega Baseball 2, going through everything from the development behind the series to decisions on how to initially sell the game which included giving it away as part of the Games with Gold program on Xbox One. 

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Scott Drader, Metalhead Software (@scottdrader)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_276.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:48am EDT

With just a week until the kick-off of EA Play and E3 expectations for sports games at the briefings and on the show floor are discussed on this episode of the Press Row Podcast. Other topics include the 2018 FIFA World Cup add-on for FIFA 18 and the first feature news for Madden NFL 19. 

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
MillsGamingTV (@millsgamingtv)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_275.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:59pm EDT

Mat Piscatella makes another visit to the Press Row Podcast to go over the latest NPD sales data for games like NBA 2K18, MLB The Show 18, and Madden NFL 18. Also discussed is the PGA Tour signing on with The Golf Club 2019, what importance reviews hold these days, the impact of subscription services on spending, and the affect Fortnite is having on the industry.

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_274.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:24pm EDT

This episode of the Press Row Podcast tackles topics that include the surprising last-minute delay to NBA Playgrounds 2, the addition of Fight Night Champion to backwards compatibility on Xbox One, and whether one or both could be leading into an E3/EA Play announcement. Then listener questions are taken on what player will be featured on the Madden NFL 19 cover, the benefits and costs to league licenses and more! 

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_273.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:12pm EDT

This week we welcome back some good friends to see what they've been up to sports game-wise (and everything else)! Owen Good and MillsGamingTV join host Rich Grisham to chat all about their love of Super Mega Baseball 2, the announcement of a new Pro Evolution Soccer, the hope for the future of NBA Live, and a lot more.

On the show this week:
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Owen Good, Polygon (@owengood)
MillsGamingTV (@millsgamingtv)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_272.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:34pm EDT

With the late-breaking news that Madden creative director Rex Dickson has left EA Sports and the mention of the series going in a "new direction" we welcome the person that previously held that same position, Ian Cummings, on this episode of the Press Row Podcast. He's got a new mobile game that just came out right in time for the Kentucky Derby (Horse Racing Manager 2018) and he's able to provide unique perspective on what the change in leadership for Madden might mean for the long-running franchise.

Later in the episode there's discussion on the just-released Super Mega Baseball 2 and an early assessment of the first event being held for the NBA 2K League.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Ian Cummings, Third Time Games, (@iantcummings)

Download Horse Racing Manager 2018: iOS - Android

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_271.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:21pm EDT

Subscription services continue to provide great value and the news on three games impacted by them headlined the week in sports gaming. Discussion on this episode of the Press Row Podcast includes Super Mega Baseball 2 being offered for free to Xbox Live Gold subscribers, PES 2018 being added to the Xbox Game Pass service, and a 20% discount for PlayStation Plus subscribers on NBA Playgrounds 2 which looks to also now have a release date. Additionally there's sadness over the lack of a World Cup game and curiosity over a survey sent out by 2K Sports regarding the reasons why people may have stopped playing NBA 2K18 which hits on some industry and consumer trends.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_270.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:14pm EDT

A summer of indie games is nearly upon us and among them are Super Mega Baseball 2, NBA Playgrounds 2, and Casey Powell Lacrosse 18. News on those three are discussed in this episode of the Press Row Podcast which also covers the revelation that Pro Evolution Soccer is losing its exclusive UEFA license and progress in a fantasy draft being held for MLB The Show 18.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_269.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:55am EDT

This episode of the Press Row Podcast features discussion on the recent NBA 2K League draft, playoff predictions from NBA 2K18 and Franchise Hockey Manager, and the crowning of the Favorite Sports Game Since 2010 with NBA 2K11 and NCAA Football 14 having reached the finals of the tournament. 

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_268.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:23pm EDT

Great friend of the show and founder of the sports video game podcast Adrian Todd Zuniga joins us this week! He discusses his new book Collision Theory which is available April 17 and can be pre-ordered now, his role helping craft Madden's Longshot mode last year and looking ahead on potential future options for it, his current relationship with sports video games, and more. From 1UP to The Sports Game Guy's Sports Anomaly, 4th String to Literary Death Match, Mr. Zuniga is well-known for his diverse, entertaining efforts.

On the show this week:
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
Adrian Todd Zuniga (@atzuniga)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_267.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:09pm EDT

MLB The Show 18 has released and we've assembled a small panel to talk all about the game on this episode of the Press Row Podcast. Everything from Diamond Dynasty, Road to the Show, Franchise, gameplay, the removal of modes, predictable trouble with the servers and more is discussed at length.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Kat Bailey, USgamer (@the_katbot)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_266.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:27am EDT

From the latest on any potential return of college sports video games to the impact Fortnite is having on the industry this episode of the Press Row Podcast tackles a number of listener-submitted questions. Additionally the results from the first round of the Favorite Game Since 2010 Tournament are revealed setting up the Elite Eight matchups.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_265.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:20am EDT

Franchise Mode news for MLB The Show 18 is out and fans are overwhelmingly disappointed by the details, just weeks following the announcement of the removal of Online Franchise. The state of Franchise in The Show - and the sports gaming genre as a whole - is discussed in this episode of the Press Row Podcast. Then it's on to revealing the field of 16 games in the "Favorite Sports Game since 2010" tournament bracket.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@ThatSportsGamer)
MillsGamingTV (@MillsGamingTV)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_264.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:17pm EDT

With just two weeks until MLB The Show 18 arrives the final details on what to expect from the game are being revealed. Whether it regards the improvements and additions, or in one case a prominent subtraction, pre-release anticipation for the game has now reached its peak.

The removal of Online Franchise has sparked backlash from fans of the mode, who despite being relatively low in numbers are understandably frustrated given the lack of support it has received over the last four years and because it will probably never return. Meanwhile the stalwart Road to the Show is moving towards a performance-based progression system that has removed the distribution of attribute points in favor of archetypes and attribute caps.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@ThatSportsGamer)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_263.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:31am EDT

2018 is shaping up to be a strong one for the sports gaming genre due in large part to independent developers. The latest game to be announced is The Golf Club 2019 which will act as the third entry in the well-regarded series that began in 2014, but concern is raised whether it will be able to sustain much less grow its consumer base in a graveyard of once annualized sports franchises. Also on this episode discussion regarding the new features revealed for MLB The Show 18's Diamond Dynasty mode and the panelists theorize why there still has been no official FIFA World Cup game announcement from EA Sports.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
MillsGamingTV (@MillsGamingTV)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_262.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:31am EDT

After a week venturing into the history of baseball video games the Press Row Podcast returns to present day with more discussion on MLB The Show, the announcement of a Casey Powell Lacrosse sequel, the latest eSports developments for NBA 2K18 and FIFA 18, and the NPD results for January which includes an alarmingly low landing spot for EA Sports UFC 3.  

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_261.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:57am EDT

A new season of baseball is once again upon us and on this episode of the Press Row Podcast we look both forward to MLB The Show 18 and back through the history of baseball video games. First it's a discussion of this week's reveal of new features for The Show. Then each panelist counts down through their top five all-time features from baseball video games. The picks are varied and span over 30 years, represent different types of games, features that have proven influential to this day, and those that were simply most memorable.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Paul Sporer, Rotographs/ESPN (@sporer)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@ThatSportsGamer)
Kris Jardine, SnaggleJ (@SnaggleJ)
MillsGamingTV (@MillsGamingTV)

Referenced in this episode
MLB The Show 18 stream notes
The Fantasy Baseball Black Book 2018

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_260.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:54pm EDT

Over 12 years have passed since the release of Madden NFL 06 but the mere mention of the title still conjures up emotions from sports gaming fans. From an industry standpoint it also could be cited as being a major contributor to a turning point around that time in consumer distrust with not just what publishers would say about games before they released, but also what they showed. 

Former lead designer for the Madden NFL series Ian Cummings joins Bryan Wiedey and Rich Grisham to discuss the events surrounding development of that game. Thanks to a piece from Glixel which included interviews with several parties involved in development we've learned a lot about the behind-the-scenes trials and tribulations and here Ian provides additional perspective and his first-person account of everything that took place.

Also in this episode T.J. Lauerman goes through the first reveals for MLB The Show 18 which includes a focus on the improvements made to gameplay and the addition of new legends for Franchise and Diamond Dynasty. 

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
Ian Cummings, Third Time Games (@iantcummings)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_259.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:56pm EDT

Could Microsoft really be looking at buying Electronic Arts? What would it mean if that actually came about? The big rumor this week is discussed in this episode of the Press Row Podcast. Other topics include more thoughts on EA Sports UFC 3, what Madden NFL 18 predicts for Super Bowl 52, and the remarkable numbers being reached by the FIFA franchise.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
MillsGamingTV (@millsgamingtv)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_258.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:45am EDT

In a look forward to the year ahead, the panelists on this episode of the Press Row Podcast go through their top five most anticipated sports games of 2018. The criteria among the panelists varied with the lists including some predictable selections, some surprising ones, and even a few hypotheticals.

On the show this week:
Bryan Wiedey, Pastapadre/Sporting News/Hit the Pass (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit the Pass (@richgrisham)
Daniel Baesal, UberYoutuber (@danielbaesel)
T.J. Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer (@thatsportsgamer)
MillsGamingTV (@millsgamingtv)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_257.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:22pm EDT

It's the eight annual PCAs! Celebrating the year in sports gaming, the Pastapadre Community Awards recognize all the achievements from the genre over 12 different categories - as voted on by the community of consumers that actually plays them! The awards are handed out in this episode of the Press Row Podcast, with in-depth discussion on all the nominees and what the voting patterns say about the games and the direction of the genre. 

Pastapadre, Sporting News/Hit The Pass/Pastapadre (@pastapadre)
Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_256.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:21am EDT

It’s part 2 of our set of shows talking to various friends of the Press Row Podcast, counting down their top 3 sports games of 2017! This week, we get a bunch of great guests to join, including Ryan Lewis from 4th String, Corey Andress from Electronic Arts, Daniel Baesel (aka UberYouTuber), Matt Kato from GameInformer, and Adam Burnett & Jeff Riddolls from Franchise Hockey Manager. It’s another really fun episode with a bunch of different perspectives!

Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Ryan Lewis, 4th String (@RyanTheLou)
Corey Andress, Electronic Arts (@EACoreySA)
Daniel Baesel, YouTube (@danielbaesal)
Matt Kato, GameInformer (@MattKato)
Adam Burnett, Franchise Hockey Manager (@KnightAttack09)
Jeff Riddolls, Franchise Hockey Manager (@JeffRiddolls)​

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_255.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:26pm EDT

A Press Row Podcast tradition continues with a gathering of many friends of the show to tell us their favorite sports games of 2017. There are no rules other than pick your favorites! This week's episode is the first of two shows, featuring great friends Gus Ramsey in one segment and Cicero Holmes in another. Many know Gus from his days at ESPN and the Bill Simmons podcast. Cicero, one of the creative forces behind Spawn On Me, has been a contributor for years. Both played their fair share of sports games 2017 and tell host Rich Grisham their three favorites in order.

Rich Grisham, OOTP Developments/Hit The Pass (@richgrisham)
Gus Ramsey, Full Sail University (@gusramsey)
Cicero Holmes, Spawn On Me (@stubbystan)

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_254.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:41am EDT

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