Joe Garcia & Malcolm Spinedi

Shows

The Firmware Update PodcastFirmware Update 2.27: E3 2021The biggest event on the gaming calendar has come and gone, and you’d better believe Joe & Malcolm have things to say about it! Talking Points: The games of E3 2021! Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc), Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Stream | Download | Subscribe on iTunes | RSS Get a free month and audiobook on us: http://audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2021-06-1900 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.27: E3 2021The biggest event on the gaming calendar has come and gone, and you'd better believe Joe & Malcolm have things to say about it! Talking Points: The games of E3 2021! Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc), Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Get a free month and audiobook on us: http://audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2021-06-192h 17

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.26: Show Tunes & Village PeopleTwo months after promising not to take so long between episodes, Joe & Malcolm are back on the saddle. They've been playing some video games, though! Talking Points: Joe re-enters the workforce; MLB The Show 21 breaks ground as the first PlayStation-developed game to show up on Xbox consoles; Outriders delivers the run-and-gun action and cringe-worthy dialogue we've come to love from People Can Fly; Marvel's Avengers gets a mighty upgrade on PS5; It Takes Two is a co-op only adventure that's as bittersweet as it is inventive; Resident Evil 8: Village delivers the goods; Resident Evil 9: Six?? ...2021-05-142h 10

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.25: Remake RemasteredJoe & Malcolm are back to talk about what they've been playing since their game of the year show, but before that a few news tidbits dropped that are well worth talking about. Hop in and hang out, why don't ya? Talking Points: Getting stepped on by the supremely tall vampire lady in Resident Evil 8: Village; Final Fantasy VII Remake comes to PS5 with some upgrades and new story content in tow; Marvel's Avengers disassembling; EA pulls the plug on Anthem 2.0; Destiny 2 keeps its hooks in Malcolm; Joe finally plumbs the depths of Hades; Malcolm's time in the...2021-03-091h 59

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.24: Games of the Year 2020It's that special time of the year where Joe & Malcolm talk about the best games of 2020, and wouldn't you know it -- one of the worst years of our lifetimes was also jam-packed with quality video games! The traditional tournament format to declare a definitive game of the year is cast aside, and the guys instead present ordered lists of their personal favorite games. It's a good time! Get in here! Talking Points: The very best games of 2020! Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc), Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com...2021-01-172h 53

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.23: Out to LaunchJoe & Malcolm both have shiny new PlayStation 5's, and dang it they're gonna tell you all about it! With three weeks of next-generation gaming under their belts, here are their impressions of the DualSense controller, system software, and, best of all, some dang video games. This is a good one, so come and get it! Talking Points: Adventures in reselling old consoles; navigating the PS5's shiny new UI; dipping our toes in backwards compatibility; the not-so-straightforward process of upgrading certain PS4 games to PS5; the glory of the DualSense controller; the sheer...2020-12-062h 02

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.22: Live from the Impact ZoneJoe & Malcolm have their next-gen consoles all preordered, so now it's time for them to play the waiting game. Obviously that means playing other, actual video games in the meantime. Come hear about 'em! Talking Points: Malcolm hits the big four-oh; preorder woes; Microsoft just ups and buys Bethesda, as a treat; Peter Parker, transformed; PSN trophies get an overhaul; Yakuza: Like a Dragon is out on everything but PS5; Genshin Impact takes the world by storm; plugging away at Destiny 2; Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning casts its spell; the curious case of Super Mario 3D All-Stars; Tony...2020-10-252h 14

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.21: PlayStation 5 GuysThe sprint towards the next generation is on, as Sony has finally revealed the price and date for the upcoming PlayStation 5. Prices! Release dates! Bombshell game reveals! Preorder fiascos! Talking Points: Final Fantasy XVI?!; Miles Morales pulls it together; Hogwarts Legacy poofs into existence; Resident Evil 8: Village looks spooktacular; Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War cribs from Furious 7; loopy for Deathloop; Devil May 5 Special Edition revs up on PS5; Oddworld: Soulstorm is the latest in a long-running series we've never played; Five Nights at Freddy's: Security Breach brings our nieces and nephews into the...2020-09-201h 11

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.20: All Falls DownJoe & Malcolm join the rest of the world in mourning the tragic loss of Chadwick Boseman, whose iconic turn as Black Panther meant so much to so many people. Rest in power, king. They soldier on to talk about the games they've played in August, including the return of a classic franchise and an absolutely infectious new battle royale. Come on in, the water's fine! Talking Points: Rest in Power, Chadwick Boseman; Joe scores a platinum in Ghost of Tsushima; creepy crawly Carrion; Battletoads makes a worthwhile comeback; the trials and tribulations of a...2020-08-301h 01

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.19: All Caught UpSo now that we've spent several hours catching up on 2018 and 2019, Joe & Malcolm get together to...spend several hours catching up on 2020! We've relaunched with a new monthly format, but we did that in the middle of a good year for games, so with this we're all up to speed. Come on in and have a listen, will ya? Talking Points: Touching on Crystal Dynamics's upcoming Avengers game; lessons learned from The Friends of Ringo Ishikawa; Persona 5 Royal improves on an all-time classic; Malcolm finds a mobile game worth a damn; Animal Crossing: New Horizons i...2020-07-313h 42

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.18: Games of the YearsOK, then! We fell way behind our 2018 Game of the Year show and tried to get things going in May 2019. We haven't recorded a regular episode of the show since and find ourselves smack dab in the year 2020, two GOTY shows behind. The solution? Adopting a new monthly format, baby! Going forward, news will take a backseat in favor of talking about the games we've played over the past few weeks. For now, though, we each talk about our own personal favorite games of 2018 and 2019 to offer some kind of Game of the Year content, dang it.2020-06-263h 09

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Review - The Surge 2In the latest episode of The Firmware Update, Malcolm dives into The Surge 2, the follow-up to 2017's surprise hit. Is it a worthy successor, or does it go into the scrap pile? Take a listen and find out! Talking Points: The Surge 2! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Host: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) Support the show on Patreon: http://Patreon.com/TheFirmUp Get a free month and audiobook on us: http://audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2019-11-0419 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.17: The Road to Game of the Year 2018*looks at episode title* *looks at calendar* LOL Look, we know. Things happened! We're not getting into them here and now, but let's get back on track with our annual behemoth Game of the Year tournament shows! Joe & Malcolm's old pal TL Foster joins in to start things off with the dark horse bracket to see which game gets the honor of making the main bracket featuring 16 of 2018's greatest hits. Get in here, the water's fine! Talking Points: Eight Cinderellas go head-to-head for the right to fight God of War...2019-05-301h 09

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.16: The Monster at the End (and Middle (and Start)) of this PodcastOn the latest episode of The Firmware Update, Joe and Malcolm talk all about the 2018 Game Awards as Joe's apartment is suddenly accosted by terrible, sporadic construction noise that he can't do anything about and forces the show to run shorter than planned. A real treat for the ears! Talking Points: Red Dead Redemption 2 is a job; Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a love letter to video games; the actual awards given out by The Game Awards; Far Cry 5 gets a direct sequel; marvel at the return of Ultimate Alliance; one of the rare good non-Mario kart...2018-12-171h 34

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.15: Classically TrainedOn the latest episode of The Firmware Update, Joe has felt Tetris Effect's warmth and is ready to spread its gospel to all who will listen. Meanwhile, a whole lot of people are rootin' and tootin' around the wild west, and the full lineup of games featured in Sony's PlayStation Classic microconsole leaves a lot to be desired. Talking Points: Have you heard the good word about Tetris Effect?; Rockstar ships 17 million copies of Red Dead Redemption 2 in a matter of days; Grand Theft Auto V is still wildly popular; an awful lot of omissions from the...2018-11-131h 57

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.14: The Telltale HeartThe latest episode of The Firmware Update is, uh, real late. It's a good thing nothing terrible has happened in nearly two months since Joe & Malcolm last recorded, right? Everything's fine!! Talking Points: Two ding dong months; the tragic fall of Telltale Games; the fate of the final season of Telltale's The Walking Dead; crunch time for Rockstar Games and Red Dead Redemption 2; Capcom shuts down its Vancouver studio; Sony is developing a PlayStation 5, and water continues to be wet; Sony finally allows cross play for Fortnite; cross play isn't coming to Fallout 76; PlayStation Experience skips 2018; the...2018-10-232h 21

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.13: 500 Million Days of SummerThe latest episode of The Firmware Update is jam-packed with news out of Gamescom 2018, not to mention all the other stuff that happened since our last show. It's a big'n! Talking Points: Joe and Jim Sterling are of one mind over Shenmue; tragedy in Jacksonville; July 2018 NPD results; Sony sells 3 million PlayStation VRs; small comfort for the many who didn't score a 500 Million PlayStation 4 Pro; tallying how many of those 500 million PlayStations we've actually bought; Cyberpunk 2077 hits a big development milestone; Assassin's Creed won't be annualized after all; Shenmue III will definitely hit its announced release date...2018-08-282h 41

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.12: Sky's the LimitIn the latest episode of The Firmware Update, things are looking up for No Man's Sky as its latest update is making players fall in love with it all over again. Joe & Malcolm also discuss Spider-Man PS4, Fallout 76, and Much More™! Talking Points: Chipping away at the backlog; No Man's Sky Next is the game's potential finally realized; Spider-Man goes gold and gets special edition hardware; Shadow of the Tomb Raider hits the presses; Fallout 76's beta details; Darksiders 3 gets a release date; Guacamelee 2 gets a date, too; Metal Gear Solid V somehow gets an update; Rainbow Six...2018-07-3054 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.11: E3 2018 Conference Recaps - Sony & NintendoIn the latest episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm fire off the last of their E3 2018 recaps, poring over the details from Sony and Nintendo's offerings. And look, it's only three weeks after the show! Talking Points: E3 2018 PlayStation Showcase; E3 2018 Nintendo Direct. Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Support the show on Patreon: http://Patreon.com/TheFirmUp Get a free month and audiobook on us: http://audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2018-07-021h 02

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.10: E3 2018 Conference Recaps - Bethesda, Square Enix, & UbisoftIn the latest episode of The Firmware Update, the E3 2018 recaps continue as Joe & Malcolm pick up what Bethesda, Square Enix, and Ubisoft are putting down at their respective presentations. Check 'em out! Talking Points: Bethesda E3 2018 Showcase; Square Enix E3 2018 Showcase; Ubisoft E3 2018 Conference. Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Support the show on Patreon: http://Patreon.com/TheFirmUp Get a free month and audiobook on us: http://audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2018-06-221h 09

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.09: E3 2018 Conference Recaps - EA & MicrosoftIn the latest episode of The Firmware Update, E3 2018 is squarely in Joe & Malcolm's rearview mirrors. In the first of a series of conference wrap-ups, they talk up what went down at EA and Microsoft's stage shows. Talking Points: EA Play 2018; 2018 Xbox E3 Briefing. Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Support the show on Patreon: http://Patreon.com/TheFirmUp Get a free month and audiobook on us: http://audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2018-06-191h 30

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.08: E3 2018 Prediction ExtravaganzaIn the latest episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm preview E3 2018 with their customary predictions for each of the major publishers' presentations. They'll either dazzle the internet with their wisdom that somehow manages to be both illuminating yet obvious when heard, or they'll just be wrong a bunch. We'll see soon enough! Talking Points: EA; Bethesda; Microsoft; Square Enix; Ubisoft; Sony; Nintendo. Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Support the show on Patreon: http://Patreon.com/TheFirmUp Get a free...2018-06-061h 20

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.07: We've Updated Our Privacy PolicyIn a long overdue episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm have updated the podcast's privacy policy, a bee bit Malcolm's bottom and now his bottom's big, and Joe secretly nurses a hangover. Video games, too. Talking Points: BEES, BEES EVERYWHERE; the PS4 has one foot in the grave; long live the PS4, actually; Sony's plans for E3 2018; a boy and his dad dominate the sales charts; Walmart Canada spoils a bunch of E3 reveals; Rage 2, a game no one asked for; Kingdom Hearts III might actually see the light of day; Shenmue III seemingly never will...2018-05-281h 41

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.06: The Dark Souls of Puzzle GamesIn the latest episode of The Firmware Update, we learn that Malcolm truly can compare any game to Dark Souls. Meanwhile, Joe gushes about A Way Out, and both hosts completely forget about Dragon Quest. Talking Points: 'Tis the season to get manic about wrestling; Monster Hunter World tops sales charts two months running; the Switch's historic success; PlayStation VR gets a price cut; getting weepy for Toys 'R' Us; the free games hittting PlayStation Plus for April 2018; God of War is on track to hit its dank release date; Yakuza Kiwami 2 gets a domestic release date...2018-03-301h 18

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.05: The Doctor is InIn the latest episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm are fresh off of Game of the Year and ready to tackle news again. There are plenty of new game announcements and release dates to go through, so get in here! Talking Points: Avengers: Infinity War is gonna break some dang hearts; 2017 was an incredible year for the business of video games; Monster Hunter World is selling gangbusters; a new system update for PS4; Detroit: Become Human is out in May; Days Gone slips into 2019; Activision makes Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 official; even Drake is streaming...2018-03-181h 10

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.04: Game of the Year 2017, Part 2In the latest episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm are once again joined by co-founding guest host Tyler Lee to finally, finally, name their 2017 Game of the Year. This was very hard! And yes, they all know it's March 2018. Talking Points: Definitively naming our 2017 Game of the Year! Follow along with the updated 2017 Game of the Year bracket! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc), Joe Garcia (@Wons23), & Tyler Lee (@_TylerRLee_) Support the show on Patreon: http://Patreon.com/TheFirmUp Get a f...2018-03-052h 11

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.03: Game of the Year 2017, Part 1On this edition of The Firmware Update, it's finally time for our long-overdue 2017 Game of the Year tournament. Scheduling has been hectic, so we're splitting it into two episodes, the first of which covers all eight first-round matchups. In an incredibly loaded year for video games, what shakes out as the cream of the crop? Join Joe, Malcolm, and returning guest Tyler Lee to find out! Talking Points: The first round of The Firmware Update's 2017 Game of the Year tournament! Follow along with the final 2017 Game of the Year bracket! Write in...2018-02-142h 21

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.02: The Road to Game of the Year 2017On this edition of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm are back after a long time away to discuss all the news from The Game Awards. And hey, founder and former co-host Tyler Lee helps to get the ball rolling on our own Game of the Year awards by hashing out the final seed for our upcoming tournament. Talking Points: All the announcements, awards, and drunken rants that highlight The Game Awards; the best possible release date for God of War; the original Dark Souls gets a PS4 remaster; betas galore as we get a taste of...2018-01-252h 33

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.01: Life Before Death StrandingOn this edition of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm are hours away from a busy weekend that features both The Game Awards and PlayStation Experience. With Hideo Kojima and his superpals all in the LA area, we've got a pretty good idea of what's going to feature prominently at both shows. Other stuff is happening too, though! Talking Points: Microtransactions in Star Wars Battlefront II are gone, for now; the possible legislation surrounding lootboxes; a sad end for Marvel Heroes; the stars come out for The Game Awards; get excited, but not too excited, for PlayStation...2017-12-071h 59

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 2.00: SIX BUUUUUUUUUUXXXZNo one stopped us when they had the chance and now we're here: a giant-size 200th episode of The Firmware Update, guest starring founding co-host Tyler Lee. Our hubris and your negligence let this happen -- now let's talk about some video games! Talking Points: Seriously, who let this happen?; the biggest news out of Paris Games Week; gearing up for PlayStation Experience; NPD results for September 2017; the sustainability of Xbox One X's early success; Star Wars Battlefront II is a damned mess; terrible men are finally getting what's coming to them; redeeming your PSN trophies...2017-11-153h 37

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.99: Gimme the LootWith a milestone episode of The Firmware Update approaching, Joe & Malcolm think it’s time to transition the show into one that talks exclusively about the iPhone 8 and all its shortcomings. They quickly decide maybe video games are still the way to go. Talking Points: Phone shopping; Andrew House leaves Sony after 27 years; PS4 software version 5.0 is out now for everyone; EA shuts down Visceral Games; EA inserts loot boxes into Star Wars Battlefront II; happy birthday to PlayStation VR; Sony Music dips its toe into multiplatform publishing; SIE is still stubborn about cross-platform play; $46,000 for a co...2017-10-181h 29

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.98: Tokyo Late Show 2017It's been a few weeks, but the latest news episode of The Firmware Update is all about Tokyo Game Show 2017! Take a load off and hear about all the news that's clear to hear for North American PlayStation fans. Talking Points: Moving pains; August 2017 NPD results; Monster Hunter World gets a worldwide release date and pristine special edition PlayStation 4 Pro; storied Metal Gear Solid artist Yoji Shinkawa's latest project; Final Fantasy IX comes to PS4; Noctis enters the fray for Dissidia: Final Fantasy NT; Vanillaware brings something new and something old to PlayStation 4; Rockstar teases something f...2017-09-251h 54

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.97: Dumb As a Shenmule and Twice As UglyIn the latest news episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm get their first real look at Shenmue III along with the rest of the world and...hoo boy. At least we've got NPD numbers to talk about! Talking Points: The games Joe & Malcolm have been playing; PS4 software gets upgraded to 5.00; July 2017 NPD results; someone get the Xbox One some damn games; Microsoft tries to bridge the gap between Xbox Live and PlayStation Network; cutting ties with Mass Effect: Andromeda, and the franchise's uncertain future; Gran Turismo Sport's confusing PS4 bundle; Shenmue III's looking a...2017-08-262h 04

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.96: Dance Dance RevolutionIn the latest news episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm feel the beat with not one but two all-new Persona dancing games! Plus, WB decides to throw a wet blanket on everyone's excitement for Middle-earth: Shadow of War. Boogie down and get in here! Talking Points: Malcolm has all the time in the world; Joe's moving house; Horizon: Zero Dawn's expansion gets a November release; big things are happening for Dragon Quest; microtransactions come to Mordor; Persona gets footloose; Wolfenstein II gets a pretty good season pass; Ni no Kuni II, not so much; NBA Live 18...2017-08-091h 48

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Review - SunderedIn the latest episode of The Firmware Update, Malcolm takes everyone on a deep dive of a flashy new action platforming game, Sundered. How does it stack up against other titles in the burgeoning Metroidvania class? Listen and find out! Talking Points: Sundered! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Support us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheFirmUp Get a free month and audiobook on us: http://audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) 2017-08-0128 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.95: EVO WithinIn the latest news episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm are still buzzing about the EVO 2017 fighting game tournament and all the announcements that came along with it. They've also played the Destiny 2 beta, and Telltale has a handful of announcements. Busy times! Talking Points: Malcolm catches up on Nier: Automata; cautiously optimistic about Destiny 2; NPD results for June 2017; game and character announcements out of EVO 2017; Gran Turismo Sport is (probably) coming in October; Kingdom Hearts III is (probably not) coming in 2018; Ni no Kuni 2 slips out of 2017; Telltale announces new seasons of Batman, The Wolf...2017-07-222h 06

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Review - The Walking Dead: A New FrontierIn the latest episode of The Firmware Update, the latest season of Telltale Games’ flagship series is up for review – The Walking Dead: A New Frontier. How does it stack up to previous seasons? Shamble on in and find out! Talking Points: The Walking Dead: A New Frontier! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheFirmUp Audible Deal: audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) 2017-07-2027 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Review - Injustice 2In the latest episode of The Firmware Update, it's a superhero showdown as Malcolm reviews the latest from NetherRealm Studios, Injustice 2! What's to love, and what could have used some work? Come find out! Talking Points: Injustice 2! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheFirmUp Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Audible Deal: audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2017-07-1744 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Mailbag - July 13th, 2017In this special edition of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm dive into their mailbag and answer a lengthy email from longtime listener Reneid Klein. We thank our first-ever Patreon supporter, Joe fawns over Nier: Automata and gears up for Horizon: Zero Dawn, discuss bitchin' movie gun fights, the genius of Norm Macdonald, and our favorite underappreciated movies. Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheFirmUp Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Audible Deal: audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2017-07-1344 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Review - The SurgeIn the latest episode of The Firmware Update, it's a deep dive into Deck13's latest offering, The Surge. How does its stack up compared to other games in the burgeoning Souls-like genre? Let Malcolm and Joe tell you all about it! Talking Points: The Surge! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheFirmUp Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Audible Deal: audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2017-06-2839 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.94: Super PatreonIn the latest news episode of The Firmware Update, Nintendo steals the limelight once again by announcing what we all knew was coming, while Joe & Malcolm are lured back into Final Fantasy XV with platinum trophies and monster trucks. Oh, and the show is now on Patreon. Wait, what?! Talking Points: Patreon.com/TheFirmUp; whether Nintendo will actually manufacture enough SNES Classics; May 2017 NPD numbers; Final Fantasy XIV is the latest game hindered by Sony's online policy; Final Fantasy XV goes muddin'; Hitman's first episode is now free for all; what's that about an...2017-06-281h 15

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.93: Winding Down E3 2017In the first post-E3 2017 episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm recap the news that broke from the show floor before giving their final thoughts on the show. Everyone gets to exhale! Talking Points: The impact of the public's attendance at E3 2017; the show's most popular trailers; Sony's refusal to play nice with Nintendo and Microsoft; David Cage's 2,000-page commitment to say nothing with Detroit: Become Human; what's new in the Shadow of the Colossus remake; dressing up Insomniac's Spider-Man; Metal Gear Survive gets pushed out of 2017; a straightforward reason for The Elder Scrolls 6's absence; the c...2017-06-201h 44

The Firmware UpdateE3 2017 Analysis - NintendoE3 2017 is underway, and Nintendo wants to solidify their hybrid Switch as a legitimate platform. How magical is Super Mario Odyssey, and just how many outrageous reveals can they squeeze into a half-hour? Turns out it's plenty! Talking Points: Nintendo! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Audible Deal: audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2017-06-1437 min

The Firmware UpdateE3 2017 Analysis - SonyE3 2017 is underway, and Sony is looking to build on the runaway success of the PlayStation 4. Joe & Malcolm talk about what blew them away, what they thought was missing, and much more -- give it a listen! Talking Points: PlayStation! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia Audible Deal: audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2017-06-141h 33

The Firmware UpdateE3 2017 Analysis - UbisoftE3 2017 is underway, and Ubisoft decided to come hard in the paint. A Mario/Rabbids crossover that people actually want to play, their stab at toys to life, pirates, assassins, and yes, a sequel that is absolutely a long time coming are all on the docket. Talking Points: Ubisoft! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia Audible Deal: audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2017-06-1442 min

The Firmware UpdateE3 2017 Analysis - BethesdaE3 2017 is underway, and Bethesda invited us all to Bethesdaland to check out their latest wares. We got sequels we knew were coming in The Evil Within 2 and Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus, but we also got some unexpected news out of the Elder Scrolls and VR camps. Check it out, why don't ya! Talking Points: Bethesda Presents: Bethesdaland! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia Audible Deal: audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2017-06-1420 min

The Firmware UpdateE3 2017 Analysis - MicrosoftE3 2017 is underway, and Microsoft is keen on letting us know just what the heck is up with the machine formerly known as Project Scorpio. What do Joe & Malcolm think of the price, and what of all those games they showed off along the way? Jump in and find out! Talking Points: Microsoft's E3 2017 Media Briefing! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Audible Deal: audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2017-06-141h 10

The Firmware UpdateE3 2017 Analysis - EA Play E3 2017 is underway, as EA and their Play event are the first to take the stage at the big show. We know Star Wars Battlefront II and EA Sports were going to have a huge presence, but what else did the publisher have in store? Come on in and find out! Talking Points: EA Play 2017! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) Audible Deal: audibletrial.com/FirmwareUpdate 2017-06-1148 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Special - E3 2017 Predictions In this special episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm hop aboard the hype train on the way to E3 2017, spreading joy and ironclad predictions for what's going down at this year's show. From third-party developers such as EA, Ubisoft, and Bethesda to the Big Three of Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo, it's time to make an online record and be made fools in just a few days time. Talking Points: EA! Ubisoft! Bethesda! Nintendo! Microsoft! Sony! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23)...2017-06-091h 34

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.92: Gone Gold The latest news-only episode of The Firmware Update is a doozy, as game companies seem keen on revealing as much as possible right before E3 2017. The games we can expect to see at the big show, the games we definitely won't see, and a bonafide gaming legend rides again, baby! Talking Points: Right to the damn point; system stability; April NPD and May PSN sale reports; PlayStation VR joins the platinum club; good old games; PS3 rides off into that good night; Death Stranding won't be at E3; Death Stranding will be at E3; Cyberpunk'd...2017-06-091h 56

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Review - Persona 5 In the latest episode of The Firmware Update, it's all about Persona 5 as Joe & Malcolm bust shadows for two hours. How well does the latest entry in Atlus' flagship RPG series stack up to the hype? Come on in and find out! Talking Points: Persona 5! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) 2017-05-241h 53

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Review - Mass Effect: Andromeda In the latest episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm muse about Mass Effect: Andromeda in their full-length review. What does the sci-fi epic have to offer players, and what does the future hold for Bioware's galaxy-hopping franchise? Hop aboard and find out! Talking Points: Mass Effect: Andromeda! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) 2017-05-1752 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Mailbag - May 11th, 2017 In this special edition of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm dive into their mailbag and answer a lengthy email from longtime listener Reneid Klein. Knee surgery, Destiny, half-spent shampoo bottles, Persona 5, and anime discovery are all on the docket, so clear an hour of your day and get in here! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) 2017-05-1556 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.91: Playing with Power In the latest news-only episode of The Firmware Update, the long-lost, original Play Station -- yes, two words -- is finally up and running. Joe & Malcolm also talk about the future of Mass Effect, Call of Duty: WWII, and much more! Talking Points: Malcolm joins the 4K fold; the Nintendo Play Station that could have been; Call of Duty officially heads back to its roots; relief upon the announcement of Darksiders 3; Sony confirms its E3 2017 plans; PlayStation VR's early success and what lies ahead; EA's Mass Effect problem; Persona 5 is a runaway success; Everybody's Golf is...2017-05-121h 43

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.90: The Phantom Zone In the latest news-only episode of The Firmware Update, Persona 5 has fully stolen Joe & Malcolm's respective hearts. Also, the good times are rolling for Naughty Dog, and a whole new hardware contender enters the arena. Video games! Talking Points: Joe's hot start to the month of April; Malcolm's less hot start to the month of April; Uncharted: The Lost Legacy gets a release date and price point; Persona 5's rousing success is lightly marred by baffling share restrictions; Mass Effect: Andromeda starts a two-month plan to fix a game that could have been better off wit...2017-04-131h 28

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Review - The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild In the latest episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm spend an hour talking about The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Just how good is the Nintendo Switch's marquee launch title? Strap in! Talking Points: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) 2017-04-0653 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Review: Nintendo Switch In the latest episode of The Firmware Update, it's a hardware review as Joe & Malcolm break down their month-long experience with the Nintendo Switch. What's great? What's less great? What does it mean for PlayStation and Xbox? Let's find out! Talking Points: The Nintendo Switch! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) 2017-04-0348 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.89: Good Night, PS3 In the latest news-only episode of The Firmware Update, the PlayStation 3 is winding down, so Joe & Malcolm recap their favorite memories of the 10-year-old machine. Also, Mass Effect: Andromeda is a big ol' mess. Get in here! Talking Points: Good night, sweet prince; February 2017 NPD results; Horizon: Zero Dawn is a rousing success; PlayStation Now expands its library; possible Red Dead Redemption 2's release dates; explaining some of Mass Effect: Andromeda's jank; fixing the worst part of Final Fantasy XV; Gran Turismo Sport's closed beta; Bungie finally confirms Destiny 2; Valkyria Revolution hopes to keep the f...2017-03-291h 40

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.88: Zero Breath In the latest episode of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm tackle what might be the biggest week yet in a busy 2017 with Horizon: Zero Dawn, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and the launch of the Nintendo Switch. All that, plus the Vita's saddest birthday ever, Mass Effect: Andromeda, Middle-earth: Shadow of War, and much more! Talking Points: Joe's return from the motherland; PlayStation Now's removal from not-so-legacy hardware; PlayStation VR approaches the platinum club; PlayStation switcheroo; early success for Horizon: Zero Dawn; Peter Moore enters plays the ultimate franchise mode; Sex, Love, and...2017-03-063h 28

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.87: Beast Mode In this inadvertently mammoth episode, Joe & Malcolm discuss the passing of a gaming legend, major PS4 updates, and much, much, much, much more! Talking Points: The Creation of Kevin; Iron Man sucks; the legacy of Namco's founder; overclocks and external hard drives; a new way to play PS1 games; Final Fantasy XV DLC; Square Enix and Marvel assemble; Grand Theft Auto V passes a ridiculous milestone; 2017's Call of Duty re-enlists the greatest generation; yet another South Park delay; Injustice 2 gets new challengers; someone check on David Jaffe; the brutal beauty of Nioh; Watch Dogs 2; R...2017-02-153h 48

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Special: 2017 Gaming Preview In this special edition of The Firmware Update, Joe and Malcolm look ahead through the 2017 gaming calendar. Let me tell you, friends: it's already looking pretty stacked! Talking Points: The January games that have already been; the February releases that are sneaking up on us; true March madness; fighting game extravaganza; Go Pates!; Redemption seven years in the making; we aren't actually expecting Shenmue III this year, right? Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) 2017-02-081h 44

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.86: Switch Hitter In this edition of The Firmware Update, it's an upside-down new reality in which a vindictive game show host is the most powerful man on the planet, Malcolm preorders a Nintendo Switch, and Joe wears a chocobo hat. Talking Points: Punch more Nazis; never too early for E3 planning; Sony shuts down one of its oldest studios; Resident Evil 7's upcoming DLC; Watch Dogs 2 gets an extended trial; Tekken 7 finally gets a street date; Injustice 2 character leaks; the ridiculous history of NBA Live; the suddenly impending Nintendo Switch. Write in to the show: mailbag@t...2017-01-282h 15

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.85: Game of the Year 2016 In this edition of The Firmware Update, Joe, Malcolm, and former co-host Tyler Lee finish what they started and hash out the best that 2016 had to offer. Get comfy, it's a long'n! Talking Points: The 2016 Game of the Year tournament, featuring murder sandboxes, human abominations, road trips, and watersports. Here's this week's bracket! Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc), Joe Garcia (@Wons23), Tyler Lee (@_TylerRLee_) 2017-01-125h 03

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.84: The Road to Game of the Year 2016 This week on The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm are joined by former co-host Tyler Lee to discuss Diablo III's throwback event, Mass Effect: Andromeda, PlayStation's most recent success, and -- oh, yeah -- get the ball rolling on their annual Game of the Year tournament. Talking Points: Catching up; Diablo III's Darkening of Tristram; Mass Effect: Andromeda nails down a March release date; Tomb Raider's creative future; Injustice 2 gets a release date, too; PS4 is 53 million strong; 2016's best-selling game on the PlayStation Store is 2015's biggest surprise hit; Atlus' promising new RPG; the possibility of...2017-01-102h 33

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.83: Delicious Cup Noodles This week on The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm return from a long absence with an even longer show! Over the course of damn near four hours, they recount the 2016 editions of The Game Awards and PlayStation Experience, all while being hit from all angles with product placement. Talking Points: The ideal number of seizures to suffer is zero; blessed tidings from Schick Hydro Man; some damn gameplay footage for Mass Effect: Andromeda, finally; The Walking Dead: A New Frontier's two-part premiere; Telltale's Guardians of the Galaxy; Death Stranding; Uncharted: The Lost Legacy; Knack by-gawd 2; Windjammers, y'a...2016-12-183h 40

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update Special: Final Fantasy XV Preview In this special edition of The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm are all about Final Fantasy XV. With a well-documented development cycle that spans an entire decade, there's plenty to talk about -- recalling all the different games and world events that have occurred since its announcement in 2006, what the hell took so long, and what lessons Square Enix could learn from it all. Talking Points: The trials and tribulations of Final Fantasy XV, and its road ahead. Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) 2016-11-291h 04

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.82: Sure As God Made Green Apples This week on The Firmware Update, Joe & Malcolm journey through the stars with the help of Mass Effect: Andromeda and Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare, while news out of BlizzCon promises to pull them back down into Diablo III. And have you heard the good news about the Chicago Cubs baseball club?! Talking Points: Ya done goofed up, America, but at least the Cubbies pulled one out before the now inevitable heat-death of our once great planet; the story driving Mass Effect: Andromeda; Diablo III recreates the 1996 original; MLB The Show 17 invests in Ken Griffey's gro...2016-11-132h 59

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.81: Red Dead Switch-eroo The latest episode of The Firmware Update is short but no less momentous, as Joe & Malcolm talk up the blockbuster reveals of Red Dead Redemption 2 and the newly-christened Nintendo Switch console. Talking Points: The possibility of Joe transcending his physical form and becoming a being a of pure light if the Chicago Cubs make the World Series; Red Dead Redemption 2; Nintendo Switch. Write in to the show: mailbag@thefirmup.com Hosts: Malcolm Spinedi (@PSMalc) & Joe Garcia (@Wons23) 2016-10-2259 min

The Firmware UpdateFirmware Update 1.80: Dim Spirits This week on The Firmware Update, we're on the cusp on the release of PlayStation VR. Of course, games like Resident Evil and Call of Duty 4 dominate the conversation -- topical stuff! Talking Points: The trouble with PlayStation VR and HDR; Resident Evil 7 and Batman: Arkham VR's exclusivity windows; the evolution of the Resident Evil franchise; Gravity Rush 2 falls out of 2016; clean out your hard drive for this year's Call of Duty releases; Bethesda finally works out mod support for its games; Beyond Good & Evil 2 is finally, actually happening; cloudy weather in No Man's Sky; From...2016-10-132h 39

Slam UniversitySlam University - Roman ReignsWelcome to another episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly sorta-regular podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.In the latest episode, Joe and Malcolm take a three-episode detour to explore the meteoric rise of the three performers that made up The Shield, one of the most dominant factions in recen...2015-11-2600 min

Slam UniversitySlam University Extra Credit - NXT Takeover: RespectWelcome to another episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly semi-regular podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.In a special bit of extracurricular activity, Malcolm and special guest Matthew Pulido recap the latest NXT Takeover event, Respect! The event featured the culmination of the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic, the furi...2015-10-1000 min

Slam UniversitySlam University - Seth RollinsWelcome to another episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.In the latest episode, Joe and Malcolm take a three-episode detour to explore the meteoric rise of the three performers that made up The Shield, one of the most dominant factions in recent memory, and...2015-07-1100 min

Slam UniversitySlam University - Dean AmbroseWelcome to another episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.In the latest episode, Joe and Malcolm take a three-episode detour to explore the meteoric rise of the three performers that made up The Shield, one of the most dominant factions in recent mem...2015-05-1300 min

Slam UniversitySlam University - MadusaWelcome to another episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.In our latest edition, we comb through the career of one of the most influential women in the history of professional wrestling, and a 2015 inductee to the WWE Hall of Fame as Alundra Blay...2015-04-2100 min

Slam UniversitySlam University - Sting, Part 2Welcome to another episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.In this episode of Slam U, Joe and Malcolm talk about The Franchise -- yep, a man called Sting! In Part 2 of this two-part episode, we regale you with tales of his stunning transfo...2015-04-0400 min

Slam UniversitySlam University - Sting, Part 1Welcome to another episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.In this episode of Slam U, Joe and Malcolm talk about The Franchise -- yep, a man called Sting! In Part 1 of this two-part episode, we recount his colorful antics as a lovable surfing ai 2015-04-0300 min

Slam UniversitySlam University - "Macho Man" Randy SavageWelcome to another episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.In this episode of Slam U, Joe and Malcolm talk about the cream of the crop, a man too hot to stop and too cold to hold -- "Macho Man" Randy Savage!2015-03-2500 min

Slam UniversitySlam University - The Undertaker, Part 2Welcome to another episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.In the latest episode of Slam U, Malcolm takes Joe and the audience for a ride as he recounts the epic career of one of the most recognizable wrestlers in history -- The Un...2015-03-0700 min

Slam UniversitySlam University - The Undertaker, Part 1Welcome to another episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.In the latest episode of Slam U, Malcolm takes Joe and the audience for a ride as he recounts the epic career of one of the most recognizable wrestlers in history -- The Un...2015-03-0600 min

Slam UniversitySlam University - André the GiantWelcome to another episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.On this episode of Slam U, Joe and Malcolm stand in awe of The Eighth Wonder of the World -- André the Giant!2015-02-2000 min

Slam UniversitySlam University - John CenaWelcome to another episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.On this episode of Slam U, Malcolm schools Joe and the listeners alike on WWE's self-proclaimed "Face That Runs the Place," 15-time world champion, and in-house Doctor of Thuganomics -- John Cena!2015-02-0600 min

Slam UniversitySlam University - Hulk Hogan, Part 2Welcome to the inaugural episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.The festivities are kicked off with perhaps the most influential wrestler of all-time: Hulk Hogan! In fact, the Hulkster's career is so long and storied that it couldn't be contained within a si...2015-01-2400 min

Slam UniversitySlam University - Hulk Hogan, Part 1Welcome to the inaugural episode of Slam University, a bi-weekly podcast chronicling the legendary careers of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever lace up a pair of boots! Listen in as hosts Joe Garcia and Malcolm Spinedi recount the most glorious peaks, the darkest valleys, and all the stuff in-between that makes up the fabric of some of the most colorful characters in entertainment history.The festivities are kicked off with perhaps the most influential wrestler of all-time: Hulk Hogan! In fact, the Hulkster's career is so long and storied that it couldn't be contained within a si...2015-01-2400 min