The Ringer-Verse 'Halo' Hits PlayStation, 'Ninja Gaiden 4,' and 'The Outer Worlds 2' | Button Mash
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Oct 31, 2025 Joining the discussion is Matt James, the Ringer's deputy art director and frequent commentator on gaming trends. He dives into the significance of the multi-platform remake of 'Halo,' exploring what it means for Xbox's future strategy. The duo also shares their impressions of 'Ninja Gaiden 4,' discussing its complex combat and narrative weaknesses, while praising its gameplay depth. Lastly, they highlight the appeal of 'The Outer Worlds 2,' emphasizing its choice-driven adventures and character builds that enhance player engagement.
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Premium Positioning Risks And Rewards
- Xbox's hardware future aims at higher price points and curated experiences, risking alienating some buyers.
- Seamless user experience will determine whether premium Xbox hardware succeeds or flops.
Near-Abandonment Turned Into Love
- Matt James nearly quit Ninja Gaiden 4 within the first hours and only continued because he had to for the podcast.
- After persisting he grew to love the game's combat and pacing.
Combat Is A Slow-Burn Strength
- Ninja Gaiden 4's combat is deep but initially overwhelming due to many moves and on-screen prompts.
- Players who invest time unlock satisfying nuance and weapon variety.