Buttons and Buds

About Buttons and Buds

Buttons and Buds is a place for friends to gather and talk about the games we are playing and current events in the gaming space. We are a community of friendly gamers looking to learn about new games, news and patch notes!

Publisher

Dylan Brennan

Category

leisure

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

26 Jan 2026

Latest episode

12 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

8 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   12 Aug 2026

   Do games even value our time?

   Two friends talk games that reward coming back, the live-service grind, upcoming releases, indie finds, and their latest Magic obsession. Timestamps 00:00 Cold open: live-service pressure vs. “number go up” games 00:30 Intro 01:01 Taking breaks from games 07:20 Favorites to return to 12:14 Games that didn’t hold up 20:22 Arc Raiders, Destiny, and respecting players’ time 27:53 Upcoming games: Fable, GTA 6, and more 34:54 Sinking City 2 38:50 Control and Remedy’s next chapter 43:42 Silent Hill Townfall 48:14 Indie games and roguelikes 54:15 Dungeon Crawler Carl and dungeon-crawling games 63:08 Magic Arena, Commander, and virtual game nights

2. 

   30 Mar 2026

   Living with Marathon

   Join us in this episode of Buttons and Buds as we dive into the latest updates and experiences in Marathon. From patch notes to gameplay strategies, we've got you covered! Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction and Welcome 0:12 - New Patch Notes Overview 1:09 - Ammo and Med Cabinets Update 2:17 - Exploring with VAC and ARG 3:36 - Gunfire and Explosions Range 4:17 - Developer Responsiveness 5:00 - Gameplay Strategies and Tips 7:08 - Running Different Kits 8:22 - The Importance of Running Thief 9:24 - Shell Abilities and Strategies 10:38 - Hacking and Combat Tactics 12:39 - Patch Notes and Game Balance 15:14 - Contract Updates and Navigation 16:12 - Community Feedback and Changes 17:19 - Sniper Nerf and Thermal Scope 19:23 - Future Game Enhancements 21:15 - Marathon vs. Arc Raiders 22:00 - Inventory Management Tips 25:19 - Bartering and Resource Management 28:07 - Faction Upgrades and Benefits 31:06 - Zero to Hero Strategy 33:24 - Squad Filling Experiences 41:35 - Community and LFG Opportunities 49:31 - Mic Etiquette and Game Experience 51:40 - Constructive Criticism in Gaming 62:36 - The Importance of Competition 68:53 - Supporting Indie Games 70:08 - PC Gaming Journey 73:47 - Closing Thoughts and Community Engagement Don't forget to join our Discord for more discussions and squad fills!

3. 

   3 Mar 2026

   Server Slam Fever!

   Join us as we dive into the world of Marathon, exploring its strengths and areas for improvement. From gunplay to progression systems, we cover it all in this detailed discussion. Links: https://www.marathonthegame.com/ (https://www.marathonthegame.com/) https://discord.gg/wbdbfSTADs (https://discord.gg/wbdbfSTADs) Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction Opening remarks and expectations for Marathon during the server slam. 0:52 - Onboarding and Menus Discussing the complexity of the game's menus and onboarding process. 2:52 - Destiny History and Progression Concerns Comparing Marathon's progression to Destiny's past experiences. 11:35 - Kit System Strengths Exploring the innovative kit system and its impact on gameplay. 14:47 - Movement Tool and Shield Mechanic Analyzing the unique movement and shield mechanics in the game. 17:32 - Scalable Power Discussing the game's approach to player power and progression. 21:54 - Content Drought Concerns Addressing concerns about content cadence and player engagement. 23:55 - PvP Culture in Marathon Sharing experiences with the game's active PvP environment. 34:44 - Solo Viability Critique Evaluating the game's support for solo players. 35:31 - VoIP Onboarding and Usability Critiquing the VoIP system and its integration into gameplay. 42:23 - Antivirus Kit Usefulness Discussing the strategic use of the antivirus kit. 54:44 - Soundscape and Immersion Highlighting the game's immersive sound design. 55:30 - Directional In-Game VoIP Exploring the directional audio features in party chat. 51:04 - Rook Recommendation Suggesting Rook as an entry point for new players. 58:58 - Pre-orders, Skins, and Season Pass Discussing the deluxe edition and its offerings. 60:06 - Closing Note Encouraging community engagement and future updates. Conclusion: Marathon offers a compelling experience with its strong core mechanics and immersive world. While there are areas for improvement, the potential for long-term engagement is promising. Stay tuned for more updates and join the conversation in the comments!

4. 

   24 Feb 2026

   Are you ready for Marathon?

   Buckle up! We’re diving into Bungie’s latest sci-fi playground, Marathon, an old IP with a shiny new twist on extraction shooters. Fast-paced loot runs, class-based chaos, and lore so deep you’ll need a telescope just to see the surface. If you love your shooters check this out! In this episode: The fascinating comeback story of Marathon and its tie to Bungie’s roots How Bungie is shaking up the extraction shooter genre with classes and dynamic maps Lore legend Jake The AlRight’s deep dives that fuel the hype train The potential esports twist: Could Marathon dominate the competitive scene? Our favorite classes and what we’re most excited to play Maps, events, and how Bungie plans to keep players hooked Timestamps: Resources & Links: Marathon Guide (https://marathon-guide.com/) (https://marathon-guide.com/)- for class, maps, and lore deets HiddenXperia Halo theory (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NeKvrNu6BE) - Tin foil hat land Jake The All Right - Lore Master (https://www.youtube.com/@jakethealright) Deep lore rabbit holes Marathon Info (https://www.marathonthegame.com/) – Stay updated on release news Buttons and Buds Discord (https://discord.gg/eK9HKhywFN)

5. 

   16 Feb 2026

   What does it all mean?

   In this conversation we delve into the world of gaming acronyms, technical settings, and the unique language of the gaming community. Our hosts Brendan and Dylan explore various game genres, modes, skill terms, and meta concepts, shedding light on the intricacies of gaming terminology and culture. Takeaways Gaming acronyms can be confusing for new players. Understanding technical acronyms and settings is important for gaming. The gaming community has its own unique language and terminology. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gaming Acronyms 15:00 Game Genres and Modes 25:05 Skill Terms and Meta

6. 

   9 Feb 2026

   Arc Headwinds and Dune Chapter 3

   Arc Raiders & Gaming Updates Deep Dive In this episode, Brendan and DB discuss the latest developments in Arc Raiders, covering new map conditions like Bird City, matchmaking improvements, community tools, and upcoming content. They also explore broader topics about game design, developer vision, and cross-game comparisons to Dune and Resident Evil series. Key Topics: Recent gameplay updates including solo vs squad queues, XP bonuses, and new map conditions The Trophy Case project and how it motivates exploration and learning game mechanics Community resources like MetaForge and detailed map tools for max efficiency Speculation on upcoming map releases and thematic inspirations, e.g., volcano and beach maps The importance of clear developer vision versus reactionary changes; lessons from Dune and Resident Evil Enhancing game longevity through skin variants, rewarding long-term play, and cosmetic unlocks Quality of life improvements: open party system, spectate features, obstacle movement, and bug fixes Discussion on in-game economy: cap on credits, potential benefits for excess credits, and item rarity Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and episode overview 02:00 - Recent updates in Arc Raiders: matchmaking, map conditions, rewards 06:00 - Exploration of Bird City map design and gameplay strategies 12:00 - Community tools for maximizing gameplay efficiency 17:00 - Upcoming content teasers: large arc, new map themes, and map locations 24:00 - Developer vision, game polishing, and avoiding feature bloat 30:00 - Broader game industry lessons from Dune and Resident Evil 38:00 - End game systems, quest design, and player progression in Dune 44:00 - Comparing Resident Evil formats: from action to horror roots 50:00 - Final thoughts: game direction, long-term engagement, and studio planning Resources & Links: MetaForge Interactive Maps for Arc Raiders (https://metaforge.app/arc-raiders/map) Dune Awakening Base Calculator (https://tools.tcno.co/dune) Dune Awakening Interactive Map (https://duneawakening.th.gl/) Arc Raiders Discord Community (https://discord.gg/arcraiders) Buttons and Buds Discord (https://discord.gg/eK9HKhywFN)

7. 

   2 Feb 2026

   Arc 'naders: Updates & Tactics

   Join Buttons and buds, Brendan Oak, and DB as we explore how small tweaks in Arc Raiders can transform your gameplay. We dive into the latest update, discussing why some nerfs, like the trigger nade, actually enhance the game by promoting skill-based play over mindless spam. Discover how developers are shaping combat to reward awareness and reaction, and learn tactical tips for thriving in chaos. We'll cover everything from glitch prevention to community reactions and future updates. We'll also share insights on AI rumors, community exploits, and how Epic studio's decisions aim for a decade-long live service. Plus, get a sneak peek at our upcoming projects and favorite cozy games like Valheim and Pallia. Whether you're a veteran or new to ARC Raiders, these insights can transform your gameplay. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:15 Trigger Nade Nerf 10:30 Developer Insights 18:45 Overlay Clip: Showstopper Did Not Stop Him 25:00 Tactical Tips 35:45 AI Rumors & Exploits 45:00 Upcoming Projects & Games 55:30 Conclusion Join us to see how understanding the “why” makes you a better gamer.

8. 

   26 Jan 2026

   Play with your friends in 2026

   Our conversation begins with an introduction to the podcast and the hosts. We then delve into the nostalgia and bonding experiences associated with gaming. The evolution of gaming, the rise of VR, and the resurgence of platformer games and couch co-op are discussed. We conclude with a focus on indie game innovation and the disappointment with AAA games. We discuss what we hope is the new renaissance in the gaming industry, highlighting the success of indie studios and the immersive sound design in Arc Raiders. The player interactions and the evolving dynamics within the game, showcasing the impact of aggression-based matchmaking and the surprising experiences of player interactions. We get into the dynamics of PvP and PvE gameplay in Arc Raiders, exploring the merits of both and the potential for large AI events. To wrap up our conversation we look into the world of tabletop RPGs and their offshoots, exploring the immersive experience of role-playing games and the creative freedom they offer. Brendan highlights the reimagining of tabletop RPGs and the unique storytelling opportunities they provide. Takeaways Couch co-op games are making a comeback Indie studios are breaking the mold with innovative game design AAA games are becoming bloated and money-driven Renaissance in the gaming industry Immersive sound design PvP and PvE dynamics Community interactions Tabletop RPGs and their offshoots The immersive experience of role-playing games Chapters 00:00 Indie Game Innovation and AAA Disappointment 29:20 Renaissance in the Gaming Industry 59:59 PvP and PvE Dynamics 01:16:23 Community Interactions 01:32:13 Reimagining Tabletop RPGs

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.