SG 103 | FIRE EMBLEM ENGAGE + THE CALLISTO PROTOCOL & THE LAST OF US (HBO)
Episode notes
The episode devotes much of the program to reviewing The Last of Us, The Callisto Protocol, and Fire Emblem Engage. Regarding The Last of Us’ pilot episode, the hosts highlight its fidelity to the video game, production, sound, tension, cast, and focus on relationships between characters. They also discuss its excellent critical reception and the possible boost to game sales.
The current-affairs segment covers an interview about the horror and audio of Dead Space Remake, layoffs at Microsoft and 343 Industries, the closure of Google Stadia, and the dispute between Activision Blizzard and NetEase in China. The hosts also debate the launch of PlayStation VR2, its initial lineup, price, cable connection, dependence on PlayStation 5, and competition with Quest 3.
The longest review focuses on The Callisto Protocol: its premise, story, characters, graphics, atmosphere, enemies, stealth, combat, level design, audio, and length. The verdict is mixed: its presentation and atmosphere are praised, while repetition, linearity, and a cliché-filled narrative are criticized. Finally, Fire Emblem Engage receives a positive assessment for its strategic combat, although its story and characters are considered less deep than in Three Houses.
Chapters
- 1:04 Fire Emblem Engage: first impressions
- 3:13 The Last of Us (HBO): pilot episode and reception
- 12:34 Dead Space Remake: horror and audio
- 15:35 Current affairs: Halo Infinite and Stadia controller
- 20:06 PlayStation VR2: launch and games
- 28:53 The Callisto Protocol: premise and story
- 43:14 The Callisto Protocol: combat and level design
- 50:32 The Callisto Protocol: final verdict
- 57:45 Fire Emblem Engage: story and combat
- 1:02:15 Fire Emblem Engage: structure and verdict