Press Row Podcast
Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: New Star Soccer Interview and Retrospective

The 51st Episode of the Press Row Podcast is dedicated to one of our all-time favorite mobile games, the fantastic New Star Soccer. To celebrate the release of its first major update since laumch, host Rich Grisham (@richgrisham) interviews its one-man creator Simon Read to learn about what’s different, what his experience has been since its launch, and his plans for the game in the future. After that, friend of the show Ian Cummings (iancummings) joins Rich to discuss the update, reflect on what makes New Star Soccer that much better than so many other mobile sports games, and what big-time sports games could learn from this little gem.

Enjoy the show!

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Lastly, be sure to check out our friends at Weekend Confirmed right here: http://www.shacknews.com/tag/weekend-confirmed. If you’re not already a listener, give it a shot. We’re all big fans!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 59:00

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_51.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 9:35am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Madden NFL 25 Next-Gen with Vic Lugo

The 50th (!) Episode of the Press Row Podcast is a one-on-one interview by host Rich Grisham (@richgrisham) with Madden 25 NFL designer Vic Lugo, one of the core gameplay leaders as the Madden franchise moves into the PS4/Xbox One generation. The conversation hits a lot of the fundamental aspects of what happens on the field, including locomotion, physics, blocking, controls, and how players interact with each other. It’s the kind of conversation you’ll hear nowhere else but the Press Row Podcast on Operation Sports.

Enjoy the show!

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Lastly, be sure to check out our friends at Weekend Confirmed right here: http://www.shacknews.com/tag/weekend-confirmed. If you’re not already a listener, give it a shot. We’re all big fans!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 49:00

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_50.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 9:45am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: NBA Live 14 Gameplay with Scott O’Gallagher

Episode 49 of the Press Row Podcast features an in-depth interview by host Rich Grisham (@richgrisham) with NBA Live 14 Gameplay Designer Scott O’Gallagher (ScottOGallagher). Scott talks at length about some of the challenges the team has experienced in bringing NBA Live 14 to life, all of the gameplay features and controls, and the ways that NBA Live will set itself apart from its own heritage and the competition. While there is much about the game that has yet to be announced – and therefore isn’t discussed here – it’s an interesting view into the game now that it’s almost time to be unveiled to a waiting community.

Enjoy the show!

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Lastly, be sure to check out our friends at Weekend Confirmed right here: http://www.shacknews.com/tag/weekend-confirmed. If you’re not already a listener, give it a shot. We’re all big fans!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 53:00

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_49.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 2:55pm EDT

Operation Sports: Press Row Podcast - Episode 48: CoachGlass, Next-Gen Madden and FIFA, UFC Lawsuit

Episode 48 of the Press Row Podcast features most of the regular gang along with a special guest. A wide-ranging discussion touches on a number of different games and topics. Here’s the breakdown:

7:00 mark – Rich, Bryan, and Chris break down the unbelievable finish of the first season of the Press Row Podcast NCAA 14 Online Dynasty

26:00 mark – Mike discusses the difficulties being experienced in the 4th String and Press Row Madden Connected Franchises

34:00 mark – Samit, Ian, and Rich veer into a lengthy GTA V discussion, including Mike’s inability to play the game despite repeated attempts (note: minor GTA V spoilers from 46:00 to 47:00)

47:00 mark – Rich professes his love for the NBA 2K14 Path to Greatness mode (note: minor spoilers of this mode during this entire segment) that leads to a discussion with Ian about commentary in sports games

52:00 mark – A wide-ranging discussion on CoachGlass and what the group has seen from the next-gen versions of Madden and FIFA 

1:43:00 mark – Samit leads the discussion of the bizarre UFC THQ-Electronic Arts lawsuit

Enjoy the show!

Joining us this week:

Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@chrisSnr)

Mike Suszek, Joystiq  (@mikesuszek)

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Ian Cummings, Zynga (@iantcummings)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar/OXM/@GAMER (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1) Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2) Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com  

3) Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Lastly, be sure to check out our friends at Weekend Confirmed right here: http://www.shacknews.com/tag/weekend-confirmed. If you’re not already a listener, give it a shot. We’re all big fans!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 2:00

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_48.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 12:34pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 47 - Xbox One Hands-On Madden 25, FIFA 14, UFC

Episode 47 of the Press Row Podcast centers in New York City, as host Rich Grisham (@richgrisham) heads to a Microsoft event featuring the Xbox One and several EA Sports franchises. He’s joined by friend of the show TJ Lauerman (@thatsportsgamer) as he interviews three leaders of key EA Sports franchises and plays several games. You’ll hear each of the presentations given to the group, followed by a one-on-one interview with each game’s lead developer. First up is FIFA 14 and Santiago Jaromillo (@santiagoj83), followed by Madden NFL 25’s Thomas Singleton, then UFC’s Brian Hayes. Lastly, Rich and TJ reflect on the afternoon, what they’ve seen, and what it all means. If you’ve ever wondered what one of these press events is like, here it is!

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Lastly, be sure to check out our friends at Weekend Confirmed right here: http://www.shacknews.com/tag/weekend-confirmed. If you’re not already a listener, give it a shot. We’re all big fans!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:35

 

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_47.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 9:06am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: NCAA Football Cancellation, FIFA 14, NBA 2K14

Press Row Podcast – Episode 46 – NCAA Football Cancellation, FIFA 14, NBA 2K14

Episode 46 of the Press Row Podcast gets the whole gang back together at the end of an extremely important – and unfortunate – day, as the crew reacts to the cancellation of NCAA Football 14. Afterwards, there’s plenty of FIFA 14 and NBA 2K14 review-type talk, as most of the panelists have had lots of hands on time with both.

Joining us this week:

Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@chrisSnr)

Kat Bailey,Freelancer  (@The_Katbot)

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar/OXM/@GAMER (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1) Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2) Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com  

3) Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Lastly, be sure to check out our friends at Weekend Confirmed right here: http://www.shacknews.com/tag/weekend-confirmed. If you’re not already a listener, give it a shot. We’re all big fans!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:37

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_46.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 11:58am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 45 - NBA 2K14 Deep Dive with Mike Wang

Episode 45 is all about NBA 2K14 – and by extension, the PS3-360 generation NBA 2K franchise - as host Rich Grisham (@richgrisham) interviews Mike Wang (@beluba), the Lead Gameplay Designer for the game. The two have a wide-ranging conversation about the generational transformation of NBA 2K, the road to NBA 2K14, an in-depth gameplay discussion, the decision process to significantly modify the controls again, and much more. If you love the NBA 2K series as much as we do, it’s a fascinating discussion about how these kinds of games come together.

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Lastly, be sure to check out our friends at Weekend Confirmed right here: http://www.shacknews.com/tag/weekend-confirmed. If you’re not already a listener, give it a shot. We’re all big fans!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:02

 

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_45_-_NBA_2K14.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 11:35am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 44 - Pro Evolution Soccer 2014 Interview

Episode 44 is all about Pro Evolution Soccer 2014, as host Rich Grisham (@richgrisham) interviews Tim Blair, the Global Brand Manager for the game. The two have a fascinating conversation about the history of the title, the rivalry with FIFA, the global appeal the PES has, the improvements that have been made to this year’s game, and much more. It’s a must-listen for anyone who’s played – or is going to play – Konami’s terrific soccer game.

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Lastly, be sure to check out our friends at Weekend Confirmed right here: http://www.shacknews.com/tag/weekend-confirmed. If you’re not already a listener, give it a shot. We’re all big fans!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 53:10

 

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_44_-_Pro_Evolution_Soccer_2014.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 8:23am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 43

Press Row Podcast – Episode 43

We’ve got a special guest to join the almost-full crew this week, as friend of the show Kat Bailey makes her first appearance on the panel. We talk all about the looming FIFA-PES battle, the current-gen/next-gen trials and tribulations facing sports games this fall, and get into what we love and hate about NHL 14 – plus a lot of listener questions too!

Joining us this week:

Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@chrisSnr)

Kat Bailey,Freelancer  (@The_Katbot)

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Lastly, be sure to check out our friends at Weekend Confirmed right here: http://www.shacknews.com/tag/weekend-confirmed. If you’re not already a listener, give it a shot. We’re all big fans!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:37

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_43.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 12:09pm EDT

It’s the 42nd Episode of the Press Row Podcast, the second of two one-on-many developer interviews with key members of the NHL 14 development team. Host Rich Grisham (@richgrisham) discusses the decision-making and design of the NHL ’94 mode, the new Live The Life updates to Be A Pro, improvements to GM Connected, and what to look forward to in Ultimate Team and EASHL. It’s Release Day of NHL 14, and there’s no better way to celebrate than taking another deep dive into the making of one of our favorite games. If you missed Part 1, make sure to check it out right here!

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 41:00

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_42_-_NHL_14_Launch_Day.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 8:39am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 41 - Madden NFL 25 "From the Outside" with Gus Ramsey and Ian Cummings

It’s another special episode of the Press Row Podcast, as we talk about Madden NFL 25 – and, by extension, life as a gaming father and working professional - with two of our favorite people. First up is ESPN’s Gus Ramsey, best known for his appearances on Bill Simmons’ BS Report to talk about his experiences with the game so far and how video games play a part in his family life as the Dad of three sons. Next up is Zynga’s Ian Cummings, a longtime designer of Madden who’s been away from the franchise for a few years. In a wide-ranging discussion, he reveals some fascinating insights into Madden 25 specifically and the franchise as a whole in the past, today, and moving into the next generation. It’s a must-listen for everyone that has ever loved Madden.

Joining us this week:

Gus Ramsey, ESPN (@gusramsey)

Ian Cummings, Zynga(@iantcummings)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Lastly, be sure to check out our friends at Weekend Confirmed right here: http://www.shacknews.com/tag/weekend-confirmed. If you’re not already a listener, give it a shot. We’re all big fans!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:45

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_41_-_Gus_Ramsey_and_Ian_Cummings.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 11:48am EDT

Operation Sports: Press Row Podcast - Episode 40: Ten Best Racing Games

By popular demand, we introduce a special episode of the Press Row Podcast where we count down the Top Ten Racing Game lists of two of our favorite racing game fans. Joining host Rich Grisham this week is Greg Sewart of the Player One Podcast and Generation 16 along with Pete Dodd of the Doddcast and the #PS4NODRM Twitter movement. The three agree and disagree on several choices, and go into great lengths about what truly makes a great racing game. If you’ve ever loved racing games, this is the show for you.

Joining us this week:

Greg Sewart, Player One Podcast/Generation 16 (@sewart)

Pete Dodd, Dodd Scientifics (@atPeteDodd)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Lastly, be sure to check out our friends at Weekend Confirmed right here: http://www.shacknews.com/tag/weekend-confirmed. If you’re not already a listener, give it a shot. We’re all big fans!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:48

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_40.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 12:31pm EDT

Operation Sports: Press Row Podcast - Episode 39 - Madden NFL 25 Review Roundtable

This is the episode we’ve been waiting for – the Madden NFL 25 Review Roundtable with the full crew. The 39th Episode of the Press Row Podcast is dedicated to a discussion of EA’s NFL franchise – how the team went about their review process, where it succeeds, where it misses, and the overall state of current-gen Madden at the dawn of the next one.
Joining us this week:

Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@chrisSnr)
Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)
Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)
Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)
Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:
Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 
Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Lastly, be sure to check out our friends at Weekend Confirmed right here: http://www.shacknews.com/tag/weekend-confirmed. If you’re not already a listener, give it a shot. We’re all big fans!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 2:11

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_39.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 10:39am EDT

Operation Sports: Press Row Podcast: Episode 38 - NHL 14 Dev Team Deep Dive (Part 1)

It’s the 38th Episode of the Press Row Podcast, a one-on-many developer interview with key members of the NHL 14 development team. Host Rich Grisham (@richgrisham) discusses the transition from last year’s game to this one, the key aspects of the just-released demo, and a deep dive into the on-ice improvements we can expect from this year’s hockey title. As always, a few listener questions are sprinkled in throughout.

Don’t miss Part 2 of the interview coming up on September 10th, the day that NHL 14 hits stores.

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 45:00

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_38_-_NHL_14_Deep_Dive_Part_1.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 11:03am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 37 - Madden NFL 25 Ratings with EA’s Donny Moore

It’s the 37th Episode of the Press Row Podcast, a one-on-one interview with Donny Moore(@Donny_Moore)  – otherwise known as Madden’s “Ratings Czar” – and host Rich Grisham. The two discuss the overall ratings process, the challenges that he faces, which players are coming in as the best-rated players at each position, some of the biggest movers and shakers since last year, and a position-by-position breakdown of the most important attributes. It’s a fascinating glimpse at a key aspect of the overall Madden experience.

Joining us this week:

Donny Moore, EA Sports (@Donny_Moore)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:02

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_37.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 8:38am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 36

It’s the 36th Episode of the Press Row Podcast, once again the saga of the endless NCAA lawsuit and its impact on college football games is front and center. The crew discusses the implications of the decisions by various conferences to opt out of their licenses as well as thoughts about the future of the franchise as a whole. There’s also discussion about NBA 2K14’s announcements – or lack thereof – to date, and a spirited debate about WWE 2K14’s new Wrestlemania mode and how that will affect 2K’s first foray into the sport. Lastly, we dive deeply into the Madden NFL 25 demo – what we like, what we don’t, and how it may affect buyer decisions when the full game is released.

After the main show, stick around for the third installment of “Let’s Play Ultimate Team” with Rich and Ultimate Team guru TJ Lauerman (@ThatSportsGamer) continuing their quest for success in NCAA 14’s UT mode. Also, check out the team Rich is hoping to build right here!

Joining us this week:

Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@chrisSnr)

Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090, Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store, so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 2:08

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_36.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 12:22pm EDT

The 35th episode of the Press Row Podcast is the first in a special series where we take a turn from the big budget world of major console sports games to the much different environment of independent sports games. Up first is an interview with the creator of the amazing New Star Soccer – our all-time favorite mobile sports game – followed by an interview with one of the makers of the terrific Your Turn Football. It’s a fascinating look into the challenges and triumphs of the people who’ve decided to eschew the big time to do it all themselves.

Joining us this week are Simon Read and Mark Baldwin of New Star Games, then Mike Saperstein of Pick Six Studios, along with your host, Richard Grisham (@richgrisham).

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090), Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , and the Windows Store - so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:30


Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 34

It’s the 34th Episode of the Press Row Podcast, and the whole gang is back together for a mid-summer showdown. After a bit of what they’ve been playing (and watching), the crew spends some time lamenting the seemingly never-ending technical issues around online sports gaming. There’s also some listener feedback on the topic as well. Up next is a Madden NFL 25 wishlist, then a breakdown of the latest legal woes surrounding EA Sports and their college football franchise.

After the main show, stick around for the second installment of “Let’s Play Ultimate Team” with Rich and Ultimate Team guru TJ Lauerman (@ThatSportsGamer). Also, check out the team Rich is hoping to build right here!

Joining us this week:

Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@chrisSnr)

Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090) and Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:58:15

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_34.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 11:09am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 33 - One-on-One with Madden NFL Creative Director Mike Young

It’s the 33rd Episode of the Press Row Podcast, a special one-on-one interview with Madden NFL 25 Creative Director Mike Young. Rich and Mike talk about the particular important of this year’s anniversary title, how Mike approaches designing the game each year, and how the process has evolved over the course of the generation –plus lots more. Stay tuned at the end of the show for a brand new segment that we hope you’ll like, too.

Do you enjoy these types of episodes? If so, make sure to let us know. Do that in one (or all!) of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090) and Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:12

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_33.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 10:09am EDT

It’s the 32nd Episode of the Press Row Podcast, a mega-sized show where we interview three FIFA 14 developers about this year’s upcoming title on the PS3, 360, and PC. Up first is Lead Gameplay Producer Aaron McHardy, discussing the philosophy of FIFA’s gameplay design process and the way his team put together the features of this year’s game on the pitch. After that are Ultimate Team Creative Director Adam Shaikh and Ultimate Team Designer Tyler Blair talking about the history of Ultimate Team, how and why it’s become such an influential aspect of FIFA in particular and sports games in general, and, naturally, an in-depth look at the additions to Ultimate Team in FIFA 14.

Do you enjoy these types of episodes? If so, make sure to let us know. Do that in one (or all!) of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090) and Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 2:00:32

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_32.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 11:39am EDT

It’s the 31st Episode of the Press Row Podcast, hot on the heels of the groundbreaking NCAA decision that removes them from their associated with EA Sports and their college football game. The panel spends quite a bit of time discussing the decision and its short- and long-term implications as well as some spirited debate about the nature of college athletics. Up next is a report about the latest information on WWE 2K13, followed by the second NCAA 14 Review Roundtable and an exploration of our favorite and least favorite aspects of the game.

Joining us this week:

Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@chrisSnr)

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090) and Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:48:14

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_31.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 11:46am EDT

Operation Sports: Press Row Podcast - Episode 30

It’s the 30th Episode of the Press Row Podcast, featuring two distinct conversations that our community has been asking for. First up is a lengthy conversation about the state of sports video game writing in 2013; many listeners have posed questions about why it seems that so few outlets pay attention to sports gaming even though it remains one of – if not the most – important revenue sources in the industry. After that, we do a “Review Roundtable Blitz” on NCAA 14, as three of the guys on the show are knee-deep in playing it for review. Don’t worry, though, we’ll have an even longer full episode-length review roundtable on NCAA 14 in a couple of weeks.

Joining us this week:

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090) and Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:49:38

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_30.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 1:16pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 29

Press Row Podcast – Episode 29
It’s Episode 29 of the Press Row Podcast, as the full crew gets back together to talk all about the Microsoft Xbox One DRM reversal, the NCAA 14 Demo, and a final look at the good, bad, and ugly from E3 2013! It’s another jam-packed show as the industry continues to go through an unprecedented transition, with critical events happening at breakneck speed.
Joining us on the panel:
Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)
Mike Suszek,Joystiq (@MikeSuszek)
Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)
Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)
Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)
Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:
Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 
Respond to this post
Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090) and Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , so subscribe to it and rate it too!
Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 1:57:01

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_29.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 12:08pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 28 – E3 2013 On-Site Special

It’s Episode 28 of the Press Row Podcast, a full report from the floor of E3 2013! A host of familiar faces and newcomers join host Rich Grisham in all sorts of ways. Here’s the breakdown of the action:
    •    Rich and Bryan Weidey from PastaPadre summarize everything they’ve seen on the show floor
    •    EA’s Director of Marketing Anthony Stevenson discusses E3, Madden, and NBA Live
    •    NBA Live Executive Producer Sean O’Brien joins Rich for a discussion about EA’s basketball franchise
    •    NBA Live gameplay designer Scott O’Gallagher joins Rich for a breakdown of the E3 floor demo
    •    NCAA 14 Producer Ben Haumiller discusses his E3 experience
    •    Madden gurus Zach Farley and Steve Gibbons go into detail about everything Madden 25, from current-gen to next-gen
    •    Madden NFL 25 Designer Vic Lugo goes through a detailed demonstration of next-generation physics
    •    Madden NFL 25 Designer Clint Oldenburg gives the crowd a detailed demonstration of next-generation blocking
    •    Operation Sports’ Steve Noah and Glen Wigmore close the show with an overview of everything they’ve seen at E3
It’s a very interesting episode, as some sections are straight-up interviews, while others are peeks behind the scenes of the demonstrations given in the EA Ignite Lab. The audio isn’t always optimal in the Lab but we did our best to give you as much as we can from the show floor. We hope you enjoy it!
Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:
    •    Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
    •    Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 
    •    Respond to this post
Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090) and Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast), so subscribe to it and rate it too!
Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 1:34:23

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_28_-_E3_2013_Special.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 5:00am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 27 - E3 2013 Preview

It’s Episode 27 of the Press Row Podcast, as the full crew gets together to talk E3! We discuss memories of the past as well as predictions for how sports games in particular and the industry in general will fare at the show. Some of us are positive, some of us are, shall we say, a little grumpy, but all of us have a lot of opinions on how we feel E3 2013 will be perceived. Plus, listener questions!

Joining us on the panel:

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Mike Suszek,Joystiq (@MikeSuszek)

Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090) and Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:40:59

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_27.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 6:13pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 26 - One on One with Ben Haumiller

It’s Episode 26 of the Press Row Podcast, as we welcome back 4-time guest Ben Haumiller to talk all about the new features available in online and offline Dynasty mode in this year’s NCAA 14. Ben goes into detail about the significant updates to recruiting, coaching, and more. As always. Ben’s enthusiasm for the game comes through loud and clear, as it’s an informative and entertaining session. Is it what you were hoping for?

Joining us this week:

Ben Haumiller, EA Sports (@benhaumiller)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

3)      Respond to this post

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090) and Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 40:15

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_26.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 10:22am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 25 - Xbox One Reveal Rapid Reaction

It’s Episode 25 of the Press Row Podcast, a nearly-full panel reaction to the Xbox One reveal! The crew alternates between hopeful, ornery, confused, and bleep-filled as they discuss the good, bad, and ugly about Microsoft’s press conference. From the name to the hardware to the EA Sports announcements and everything in between, there are no holds barred. It’s a must-listen!

Joining us on the panel:

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Mike Suszek,Joystiq (@MikeSuszek)

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090) and Stitcher Radio (http://www.stitcher.com/podcast/operation-sports/press-row-podcast) , so subscribe to it and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:19:46

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_25.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 12:06pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 24 (Part 3) - Connected Franchise

In Part 3 of Episode 24 of the Press Row Podcast, host Richard Grisham (@richgrisham) goes one-on-one with the “Godfather of Franchise Modes,” EA Sports’ Josh Looman to talk everything about Connected Franchise for Madden NFL 25. They discuss how what goes into putting such a mode into an established game in the first place, what went well and not so well last season, the decisions he and his team made for the upcoming year, and everything he can possibly discuss about this year’s improvements to Connected Franchise.

This is the last of a 3-part series of shows, so be sure the check out Parts 1 and 2; also, let us know what you think and send us some questions and thoughts you’d like us to ask developers and designers in the future.

Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 53:43

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_24_Pt_3.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 3:01pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 24 (Part 2) - The Infinity Engine

Press Row Podcast – Episode 24 (Part 2)

In Part 2 of Episode 24 of the Press Row Podcast, host Richard Grisham (@richgrisham) goes one-on-one with the man behind Madden and NCAA’s Infinity Engine, Victor Lugo. They discuss how the Infinity Engine came to be, why it’s important, what went well and not so well last year, the goals of the team for this season, and much more.

This is the second of a 3-part series of shows, so let us know what you think and send us some questions and thoughts you’d like us to ask developers and designers in the future.

Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 47:59

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_24_Pt_2.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 2:32pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 24 (Part 1) - Making Sports Games

In Part 1 of Episode 24 of the Press Row Podcast, host Richard Grisham (@richgrisham) goes one-on-one with Madden and NCAA Gameplay Creative Director Rex Dickson all about the philosophy of this year’s American Football games. If you’re expecting a boring, ‘by the numbers’ marketing conversation, though, prepare to be surprised. Rex candidly discusses the entire process of making sports games, why the team makes the choices it does, and the challenges and risks behind every corner. It’s the first of three fascinating glimpses into the makers of EA Sports games.

This is the first of a 3-part series of shows, so let us know what you think and send us some questions and thoughts you’d like us to ask developers and designers in the future.

Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 54:51

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_24_Pt_1.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 1:47pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 23

Press Row Podcast – Episode 23

It’s Episode 23 of the Press Row Podcast! The almost-full crew discusses their most memorable sports video game losses (spurred by the incredible Boston Bruins comeback in their Game 7 match against the Toronto Maple Leafs), dives deep into their thoughts about the just-announced NCAA Ultimate Team mode, then takes a few listener questions.

Joining us on the panel:

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:31:07

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_23.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 10:39am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 22 - NCAA Ultimate Team Mode Interview

It’s Episode 22 of the Press Row Podcast, a special Press Row One-on-One with NCAA Football 14 producer Ben Haumiller (@benhaumiller) and host Richard Grisham (@richgrisham) dedicated to the all-new NCAA Ultimate Team Mode – also known as “the mode they said couldn’t be done.” We talk all about how Ultimate Team came about for a college game, the different ways that players are being incorporated into the mode, and all the details about how the game is structured and played. In other words, everything you ever wanted to know about Ultimate Team but were afraid to ask.
This is the secondof a series of shows we’ll do with Ben as NCAA Football 14 information comes out, so let us know what you think and send us some questions and thoughts you’d like us to ask Ben in the future.
Do it one of these ways:
1)    Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
2)    Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 
Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.
Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 53:01

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_22.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 8:53am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 21

It’s Episode 21 of the Press Row Podcast, back and featuring the full 6-man rotation! The crew goes deep on the future of the Tiger Woods franchise, rumblings of some sorts of EA-Microsoft exclusivity, breaks down everything we know about Madden NFL 25 so far, then answers some typically great listener questions.

Joining us on the panel:

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Mike Suszek, Joystuq (@mikesuszek)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:31:04

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_21_1.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 11:14am EDT

Operation Sports: Press Row Podcast - Episode 20

It’s Episode 20 of the Press Row Podcast, a few days later than we’d like – and down one man from the full crew – but we soldier on with a great show! The team dives into what they’ve been playing, how their MLB 13 The Show and Tiger Woods experiences are going lately, reactions from EA Sports’ 2013 Season Opener for FIFA 14, NHL 14, and NCAA Football 14, next-generation sports game speculation, the current situation with sports games on the Wii U and Vita, and finally a listener-inspired discussion about the late, great Pat Summerall.

Joining us on the panel:

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Mike Suszek, Joystuq (@mikesuszek)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:28:28

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_20.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 5:12pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 19 with NCAA Football 14 Producer

Press Row Podcast – Episode 19

It’s Episode 19 of the Press Row Podcast, a special Press Row One-on-One with NCAA Football 14 producer Ben Haumiller (@benhaumiller) and host Richard Grisham (@richgrisham). We talk all about the new physics engine in the game, the newest gameplay updates coming this fall, as well as some of the cool things and challenges that come to designing football games for a staggering variety of gamer.

This is the first of a series of shows we’ll do with Ben as NCAA Football 14 information comes out, so let us know what you think and send us some questions and thoughts you’d like us to ask Ben in the future.

Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 59 minutes

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_19_One-on-One.m4a
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 4:49pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 18

Press Row Podcast – Episode 18

It’s Episode 18 of the Press Row Podcast, a “proper” show featuring the regular 6-man crew. There’s lots to talk about, including an in-depth review roundtable of Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14, a slew of NCAA Football 14 new info, and some terrific listener questions as well.

Joining us on the panel:

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)

Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Mike Suszek, Joystuq (@mikesuszek)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:32:51

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_18.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 9:46am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 17 - 2013 PAX East Panel

Press Row Podcast – Episode 17 – 2013 PAX East Panel

It’s Episode 17 of the Press Row Podcast – our 2013 PAX East panel! Featuring host Rich Grisham along with Polygon’s Samit Sarkar, Joystiq’s Mike Suszek, Iron Galaxy’s Kraig Kujawa, and Frontier Developments/Player One Podcast’s Greg Sewart, the panel covers the issues, challenges, and opportunities that face consumers, developers, and publishers as sports games move into the next generation.

Joining us on the panel:

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Mike Suszek, Joystuq (@mikesuszek)

Kraig Kujawa, Iron Galaxy Studios (@Kranged)

Greg Sewart, Frontier Developments/Player One Podcast (@sewart)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:08:38

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_17.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 1:53pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 16

It’s Episode 16 of the Press Row Podcast! The full crew is together again this episode as we discuss everything you want to hear about, including more MLB The Show 13 careers, the departure of EA’s CEO, a ton of listener questions, an in-depth preview of Tiger 14, and an analysis of the Madden cover vote. Plus, Skip Bayless* joins us to close out the show!
*not actually Skip Bayless

Joining us this week:
Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)
Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)
Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)
Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)
Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:
Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 
Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 1:25:39

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_16.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 11:09am EDT

It’s Episode 15 of the Press Row Podcast, the first in a series of one-on-one long-form interviews with people in the sports gaming world. Over the course of this year, we’ll speak in-depth with movers and shakers, from executives to developers to media folks, all with the goal of gaining a better perspective on the games we love.

This week, it’s Brad Hilderbrand, a Communications Specialist from EA Sports. We talk to Brad about how he made the transition from industry outsider to studio insider, his perspective on the state of games PR these days, what his goals are, and how his relationship works with people in the Tiburon studio as well as the media types he supports. It’s a fascinating hour dedicated to peering inside an oft-misunderstood – and demonized – aspect of the games business. And don’t panic! We’ll be back with another full panel episode next week. In the meantime, enjoy!

Joining us this week:
Your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)
His guest, Brad Hilderbrand, EA Sports (@aubradley84)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:
Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 
Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 1:02:54

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_15.mp3
Category:video games -- posted at: 6:30pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 14

It’s Episode 14 of the Press Row Podcast, a Review Roundtable of MLB 13 The Show on PS3 and Vita and MLB 2K13 on the Xbox 360. While the first part of the show features a lot of positive reactions to The Show on both platforms, things get heated – quickly – as the crew analyzes the situation that MLB 2K13 thrusts upon Xbox 360 owners and the writers who cover the game.

Joining us this week:
Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)
Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)
Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)
Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 
Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 1:35:23

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_14.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 5:37pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 13

It’s Episode 13 of the Press Row Podcast, and it’s (mostly) all about the PS4. We break down the announcement specifics, implications for sports games, and our excitement level for Sony’s new system. We also talk about what we’ve been playing, the big WWE-2K Sports news, and answer some listener questions.

Here’s the gameplan!

First Quarter – The crew discusses what they’ve been playing
Second Quarter – A massive PS4 discussion
Third Quarter – Listener questions
Fourth Quarter – The crew reacts to the WWE-2K Sports announcement

Joining us this week:
Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)
Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)
Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)
Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)
Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:
Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.
Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 1:30:49

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_13.mp3
Category:videogames -- posted at: 5:57pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 12

It’s Episode 12 of the Press Row Podcast, featuring our biggest and best crew yet. We break down the chances of MLB 2K13 being a winner, discuss the fortunes of the Wii U, answer some terrific listener questions, then spend some time on a long-awaited segment on mobile sports games. Plus, we wrap up our Child’s Play charity Super Bowl picks and our Four in February games.

Here’s the gameplan!

First Quarter – The crew discusses what they’ve been playing.

Second Quarter – Does MLB 2K13 have a chance?

Halftime – The Curious Case of the Missing Wii U titles

Third Quarter – Listener questions.

Fourth Quarter – The state of mobile sports games

Joining us this week:
Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)
Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)
Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)
Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)
Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 1:30:49

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_12.mp3
Category:sports video games, sports videogames, videogames -- posted at: 4:41pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 11

It’s Episode 11 of the Press Row Podcast. While we’re down one man, we’ve still got a great crew. There’s a big announcement about a special upcoming event, plenty of talk about the breaking WWE news, some more MLB 13 The Show talk, lots of listener feedback, some Super Bowl predictions, and plenty more. Here’s the gameplan!

First Quarter – The crew discusses what they’ve been playing.
Second Quarter – An in-depth conversation about the unfolding WWE events, thanks to the untimely demise of THQ.
Halftime – The gang answers some user mail and feedback
Third Quarter – Some more MLB 13 The Show preview talk.
Fourth Quarter – The crew reviews (and revises?) their picks for the Press Row Podcast Child’s Play Charity NFL Playoff picks as well as some Super Bowl predictions.

Joining us this week:
Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)
Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)
Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)
Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 
Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.

Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 1:08:20

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_11.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 3:43pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 10

It’s Episode 10 of the Press Row Podcast, featuring new panelist Bryan Wiedey from PastaPadre, a lot of baseball talk thanks to some shocking developments, some NFL playoff predictions for charity, and a dissertation on the disastrous results cell phone alarm clocks can cause. Here’s the gameplan!

First Quarter – It’s MLB 13 The Show preview time, as Samit describes his hands-on experience with the game.
Second Quarter – The crew reacts to the unexpected news of MLB 2K13’s unexpected rebirth.
Halftime – The gang answers some user mail and feedback
Third Quarter – We talk to Bryan about the history and philosophy of PastaPadre – where it’s been, where it is, and where it’s going.
Fourth Quarter – The crew reviews their picks for the Press Row Podcast Child’s Play Charity NFL Playoff picks.
The Final Gun – A late-to-the-party Owen Good, as always, leaves us wanting more.

Joining us this week:
Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)
Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)
Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)
Bryan Wiedey, PastaPadre (@pastapadre)
(eventually) Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com
 
Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too.
Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 1:33:15


Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 9 - 2012 Holiday Spectacular

Press Row Podcast – Episode 9 – 2012 Holiday Spectacular
It’s Episode 9 of the Press Row Podcast – a celebration of everything we loved about sports video games in 2012! We’ve gathered a who’s who of industry folks, media types, pundits, and fans all to tell us about their top three sports games of the year. It’s an epic holiday episode. Enjoy!

Joining us this week:

Gus Ramsey, ESPN
Ian Cummings, Row Sham Bow
Donny Moore, EA
Ben Haumiller, EA
Ryan Lewis, 4th String
Jon Robinson, ESPN
Mike Young, EA
Todd Zuniga, 4th String
Mike Phillips, Player One Podcast
Greg Sewart, Player One Podcast
Brad Hilderbrand, EA
Kat Bailey, Active Time Babble
Sean Ramjagsingh, EA
Zach Farley, Maddentips.com
Steve Gibbons, Maddentips.com
TJ Lauerman, ThatSportsGamer
Scott Bins, ThatSportsGamer
Pete Dodd, For Your FYI
Bill Montag, MyPlayerTracker
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 2:48:29

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_9_-_Holiday_Spectacular.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 2:26pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 8 - 2012 Sports Game of the Year

It’s Episode 8 of the Press Row Podcast – the long-awaited 2012 Sports Game Of the Year show! Here’s the gameplan:

First Quarter – Each panelist makes a case for the six 2012 Sports Game of the Year nominees.

Second Quarter – We reveal the subcategory winners

Halftime – The gang answers some user mail and feedback

Third Quarter – Each panelist reveals their individual 2012 Sports Game of the Year rankings from third to first

Fourth Quarter – The 2012 Sports Game Of The Year Winner is announced!

The Final Gun – A big thank you to the fans and the panelists

Joining us this week:
Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)
Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)
Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)
Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 
Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too!
Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 1:29:16

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_8_-_2012_Sports_Game_of_the_Year.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 3:47pm EDT

It’s Episode 7 of the Press Row Podcast! It’s Christmastime and we’re in full year-end reflection mode, talking about what we’ve played this year and what we’re already thinking about for 2013. Here’s the gameplan:

Kickoff - What the crew has been playing

First Quarter – Believe it or not, we’re starting to get initial information about the spring sports games MLB The Show and Tiger Woods. We chat about what would get us excited to play them.

Second Quarter – We reflect on the infamous Twitter meltdown of a former Madden NFL contributor and how it impacts what people think about the game

Halftime – The gang chats about some user mail and feedback

Third Quarter – Each panelist makes a sports game prediction for 2013.

Fourth Quarter – We announce the categories and nominees for the 2012 Press Row Podcast Awards!

2 Minute Warning – Parting shots from the gang

The Final Gun – Where to follow and read all of the Press Row Podcast panelists

Joining us this week:

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)
Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)
Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)
Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

  • Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
  • Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too!

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_7.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 12:09pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 6

It’s Episode 6 of the Press Row Podcast! We’ve got an excellent new segment and a new fifth chair – and a brand new console launch to talk about. Here’s the gameplan:

Kickoff - What the crew has been playing

First Quarter – The Wii U has hit the streets – along with three major sports games. Rich reviewed all three for GamesRadar, and Owen spent some quality time with a couple as well; the two chat about their experience and what the platform has to offer.

Second Quarter – Up next, Owen and crew discuss the abrupt end of 2K Sports’ online support for the majority of their sports games

Third Quarter – The gang chats about some user mail and feedback

Fourth Quarter – We welcome our first-ever guest – RowShamBow’s Creative Director Ian Cummings! Ian takes questions from the crew about a bunch of things, including Madden, the future of sports games, and what it’s like to go from console development to the mobile/social platform. He also chats about his team’s brand new free game, Letter to Letter (available on 12/1 in the Apple and Android stores).

2 Minute Warning – Parting shots from the gang

The Final Gun – Where to follow and read all of the Press Row Podcast panelists
Joining us this week:

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)
Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)
Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)
Chris Sanner, Operation Sports (@ChrisSnr)
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too!
Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 1:29:16

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_6.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 1:55pm EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 5

It’s Episode 5 of the Press Row Podcast, and we’re back to full strength! The crew goes in depth on all sorts of games, including wrestling, racing, basketball, and more. Here’s the gameplan:

Kickoff - What the crew has been playing

First Quarter – It’s WWE 13 review time, so Mike and Samit detail what they love and hate about the game and their Joystiq and Polygon reviews

Second Quarter – Up next, Need for Speed Most Wanted review talk, as Rich wrote a piece for GamesRadar

Third Quarter – The gang chats about some user mail and feedback

Fourth Quarter – It’s back to sports games and training modes – or lack thereof – based upon a few community comments

2 Minute Warning – Parting shots from the gang

The Final Gun – Where to follow and read all of the Press Row Podcast panelists

Joining us this week:
Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)
Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)
Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)
Steve Noah, Operation Sports (@steve_os)
And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there
Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 
Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too!
Enjoy the show!
Run Time: 1:33:31

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_5.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 10:49am EDT

Operation Sports - Press Row Podcast: Episode 4

Press Row Podcast – Episode 4

It’s Episode 4 of the Press Row Podcast, and while we’re down a man this week (get well soon Steve!) we’ve got a lot to talk about, from racing games to training modes and review scores. And that’s just for starters! Here’s the gameplan:

Kickoff - What the crew has been playing

First Quarter – It’s Forza Horizon review time, so Owen details why Forza is so appealing to so many people

Second Quarter – We talk about Downloadable Content’s good, bad, and ugly – and where it may lead in the future

Third Quarter – We go deep into the subject of training modes in sports games, spurred on by an email from an EA Game Changer listener

Fourth Quarter – The NPD sales numbers are half-full of sports games this month – is that great news, or perhaps something decidedly less so?

2 Minute Warning – Parting shots from the gang

The Final Gun – Where to follow and read all of the Press Row Podcast panelists

Joining us this week:

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:27:21

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_4.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 3:06pm EDT

Press Row Podcast – Episode 3

It’s Episode 3 of the Press Row Podcast, and we’re all worked up over our full plates of sports games -some of us more than others. Our cast of some of the best sports video game writers in the business is back. Here’s the gameplan!

Kickoff - What the crew has been playing

First Quarter – It’s NBA 2K13 time, and we go in depth from several angles

Second Quarter – We look back at the long, slow, painful death of NBA Live 13

Halftime – Listener feedback

Third Quarter – We discuss the Rise of the Ultimate Team across the industry

Fourth Quarter – Patch Culture and its impact on sports games reviews well after release

2 Minute Warning – Parting shots from the gang – including an, um, interesting take from Owen about NBA 2K13’s replay camera

The Final Gun – Where to follow and read all of the Press Row Podcast panelists

Joining us this week:

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Steve Noah, Operation Sports (@steve_os)

Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too!

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:40:24

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_3.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 4:11pm EDT

Press Row Podcast – Episode 2

We did it! It’s episode 2 of the Press Row Podcast, and our first since being officially picked up by the Operation Sports network. We’re pumped up to be coming at you every two weeks now, and we celebrate in style with our cemented full cast of characters – also known as the best sports video game writers in the business.

Joining us this week:

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Steve Noah, Operation Sports (@steve_os)

Mike Suszek, Joystiq (@mikesuszek)

And your host, Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Here’s the gameplan:

Kickoff - What the crew has been playing since our last show

First Quarter – It’s FIFA 13 week, so we go in depth from several angles

Second Quarter – We explore the fascinating exchange between Owen and his Editor in Chief at Kotaku, Stephen Totilo about sports video games (found here: http://kotaku.com/5945183/a-note-about-our-reviews-of-sports-video-games)

Halftime – Listener feedback

Third Quarter – The crew dives into the current legal mess surrounding NCAA Football and what it may mean for the franchise’s future

Fourth Quarter – Looking at the current (or what was at the time of recording) situation developing between NBA 2K13 and NBA Live 13

2 Minute Warning – Parting shots from the gang

Overtime – Owen weighs in with an extra-time item

The Final Gun – Where to follow and read all of the Press Row Podcast panelists

Send us your feedback! We love to hear from you and can’t wait to read your stuff on the air in a future episode. Do it one of these ways:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

Also, the Press Row Podcast is now available on iTunes, so subscribe and rate it too! The link is here: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/operation-sports-press-row/id563624090?mt=2

Enjoy the show!

Run Time: 1:30:06

Direct download: Press_Row_Podcast_Episode_2.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 2:28pm EDT

Welcome to the Press Row Podcast

Operation Sports is proud to present episode 1 of the Press Row Podcast. Featuring an All-Star lineup of the industry’s best sports video game writers, it’s a show dedicated to the games we love from the perspective of the people who make their living writing and talking about them.

And when we say All-Star cast, we mean it. For our inaugural show, we’ve got Owen Good from Kotaku, Samit Sarkar from Polygon, our own Steve Noah from Operation Sports, and host Richard Grisham from GamesRadar. If you’ve been tuned into sports game journalism the past few years, chances are you’ll be as excited as we are that we’ve gotten these personalities from multiple sites all together on one show.

Being the first episode, of course, we’re still finding our footing and there are a few audio issues here and there. But that’s OK – we hope that this is the start of something big and bold, and there will always be bumps along the way.

What’s most important, though, is to get YOUR feedback. The Press Row Podcast is about creating conversations about the games we love so much, and we want to hear from you. Got topics you’d like us to discuss? Specific questions about a current or past franchise? Thoughtful criticism? Fire it to us and we’ll talk about it on the next episode. Here’s how:

1)      Follow the show on Twitter at @PressRowPodcast  and send us some Tweets while you’re there

2)      Email the show at PressRowPodcast@gmail.com 

We’ll have the show available through the iTunes store in the coming weeks, but for now your one-stop shop to listen and download is right here at Operation Sports.

Show Details

Run Time: 1 hour, 2 minutes

Panel Guests:

Owen Good, Kotaku (@owengood)

Samit Sarkar, Polygon (@samitsarkar)

Steve Noah, Operation Sports (@steve_os)

Richard Grisham, GamesRadar (@richgrisham)

Enjoy the show!

Direct download: Press_Row_Episode_01_.mp3
Category:sports video games -- posted at: 12:34pm EDT