The Ringer-Verse

Ben and Matt James deliver their hands-on impressions of failing to play FromSoftware's 'The Duskbloods' during a disastrous network test, then react to recent news: fresh 'Grand Theft Auto VI' leaks, another live-service snafu for Sony in 'Horizon Hunters Gathering,' Dave Bautista's selection as a recast Kratos in Prime Video's 'God of War,' Disney's decision to double down on 'Kingdom Hearts,' and a sequel funded by a mysterious, rich patron. After that, Ben brings on prolific reporter Nicole Carpenter to talk about an epidemic of game cloning, the moral and legal lines between inspiration and imitation, and how the industry's copycat problem pertains to Steam sensation 'Meccha Chameleon,' Roblox smashes 'Grow a Garden' and 'Steal a Brainrot,' and 'Palworld.' Lastly, Ben brings on writer (and doctor) Rany Jazayerli to explain what it's like to give up gaming for decades before finally returning to the fold.

(00:00) Intro

(00:13) Duskbloods with Matt James

(10:11) News and More!

(48:31) Nicole Carpenter Joins

(82:31) Rany Jazayerli Joins

Host: Ben Lindbergh

Guests: Matt James, Nicole Carpenter, Rany Jazayerli

Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman

Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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The Boys return to discuss the first episode of DC’s newest show, 'Lanterns.' They examine the show’s gruffer, jaded version of Hal Jordan, debate whether or not Lanterns can live up to its prestigious time slot on HBO, question if it’s odd to cook for a man who slept with your wife, and so much more!

(0:00) Intro(9:53) Spoilers ahead(21:17) ‘Lanterns’ instant reactions(1:18:20) Outro

Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve AhlmanProducers: Devon Baroldi and Jamie YukichAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell

SUPER TROOPERS 3, only in theaters August 7. Get tickets MEOW! https://www.searchlightpictures.com/super-troopers-3#get-tickets
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The Boys are back and they’re giving you all of their thoughts on D23 2026!

Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman

Producers: Aleya Zenieris, Devon Baroldi, and Jamie Yukich

Additional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell

SUPER TROOPERS 3, only in theaters August 7. Get tickets MEOW! https://www.searchlightpictures.com/super-troopers-3#get-tickets
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The X-Men meet 'Star Wars,' and Ben Lindbergh meets Matt James as Button Mash sets the stage for two of late summer's highest-profile video games, 'Marvel's Wolverine' and 'Star Wars Zero Company.' First, Matt describes his visit to Insomniac Games and his spoiler-free impressions of the narrative, combat, and visual design of 'Wolverine.' Then, he shares interviews with Wolverine actor Liam McIntyre and Insomniac art and animation directors Grant Hollis and Brian Wyser, which Matt and Ben discuss. Finally, Ben lays out what to expect from the turn-based tactical combat, 'Star Wars' storytelling, and replayability of 'Zero Company' based on his time with the game.(00:00) Intro(02:47) 'Marvel's Wolverine'(24:43) Liam McIntyre(41:12) Grant Hollis and Brian Wyser(62:43) 'Star Wars Zero Company'Host: Ben LindberghGuests: Matt James, Liam McIntyre, Grant Hollis, and Brian WyserSenior Producer: Steve Ahlman
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The Boys are back to chat about all things 'X-Men ’97'! In the first half of this jumbo-sized episode, they share their thoughts on the 'X-Men ’97' Season 2 finale and the season as a whole before discussing the upcoming D23 expo and what they’re hoping to see revealed this weekend. Finally, the Boys are joined by none other than Rob Liefeld, who’s responsible for so many iconic X-Men characters. Rob shares his inspiration for Cable, his thoughts on Feige and Marvel, and so much more in this epic sit-down.

(0:00) Intro

(14:00) Spoilers ahead

(15:22) 'X-Men ’97' Season 2 finale instant reactions

(57:38) Midnight Meter: 'X-Men ’97' Season 2

(59:15) D23 predictions

(1:29:04) Interview with Rob Liefeld

(2:49:36) Outro

Hosts: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve AhlmanGuest: Rob LiefeldProducers: Devon Baroldi and Jamie YukichAdditional Production Support: Arjuna Ramgopowell
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