Critical Arcade

Two white dudes talk about video games, but better

Author: Nick Hendrix

Welcome to the award-winning Critical Arcade Podcast, the ultimate destination for all things gaming. Every week, our hosts Nick and Dave will be taking you on a journey through the world of video games, where theyll be reviewing the greatest releases through time, as well as diving into the rich history of gaming.Whether youre a hardcore gamer looking for an in-depth analysis of the newest triple-A title or a casual player looking for some nostalgia-fueled fun, Nick and Dave have got you covered. Theyll be sharing their thoughts on the biggest and best games out there, from the latest indie darling to a classic from the past.But its not just about the games themselves; Nick and Dave will also be discussing the industry as a whole, covering the latest news and trends, and exploring the cultural impact that video games have on our society. Theyll also be talking to some of the biggest names in the industry, from developers to streamers, and getting their insights on the world of gaming. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Language: en

Genres: Leisure, Technology, Video Games

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Code Vein II (2026) Hazed and Confused
Episode 137
Thursday, 12 February, 2026

This week on Critical Arcade, Dave and Nick once again wake up thirsty, overdesigned, and deeply unsure of what’s happening in the gothic anime apocalypse of Code Vein 2. Thrown back into a dying world of Revenants, blood codes, and coats with more belts than structural integrity, the pair find themselves navigating the aftermath of humanity’s last stand against extinction. Society has fractured, memories are currency, and everyone they meet is either traumatised, mysterious, or moments away from a tragic sacrifice.As they carve a path through ruined cities, cathedrals, and blood-soaked wastelands, Dave and Nick experiment with expanded blood code systems, new weapon types, and combat that somehow feels faster, meaner, and more anime than ever before. Along the way, they uncover a story steeped in loss, rebirth, and the question Code Vein loves asking most: how much suffering is too much suffering before it loops back around to being cool again?But it wouldn’t be Critical Arcade without chaos. Can Dave resist spending hours in the character creator just to make someone emotionally devastating? Will Nick finally accept that dodging is mandatory and not “optional flavour”? And how many boss fights will end with one of them yelling “that move is absolute nonsense” while secretly loving every second of it?Tune in as they drain ichor, befriend companions who are definitely going to die, and roll their way through a sequel that doubles down on style, melodrama, and very large weapons. It’s Code Vein 2 — sharper, sadder, and somehow even more anime than before. 🩸⚔️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.