South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone have publicly blasted the recent Paramount-Skydance merger, blaming the corporate shake-up for derailing production of Season 27. Their fiery statement—posted to the official South Park X account just minutes after Comedy Central delayed the season premiere—has thrown a spotlight on the internal turmoil disrupting one of television’s longest-running animated series.

Here’s the TL;DR…

• Trey Parker and Matt Stone called the Paramount-Skydance merger a “s***show” and accused it of “f****** up South Park.”

• The statement followed Comedy Central’s announcement that Season 27 would be delayed from July 9 to July 23.

• Legal tensions over streaming rights and executive interference are reportedly behind the production issues.

A Public Outburst Over Corporate Chaos

On July 2, 2025, at 9:11 AM EDT, the @SouthPark X account posted a blunt response to Comedy Central’s press release about the season delay:

“This merger is a s***show and it’s f****** up South Park. We are at the studio working on new episodes and we hope the fans get to see them somehow.”

The statement, attributed directly to Parker and Stone, was released roughly 30 minutes after Comedy Central’s announcement, signaling a raw and immediate reaction to behind-the-scenes disruption. The timing was no coincidence—it underscores the creators’ mounting frustration as Paramount Global’s $8 billion merger with Skydance, finalized just days earlier, continues to ripple across production schedules.

Streaming Tensions Behind the Scenes

According to Deadline and Variety, Parker and Stone had already been in conflict with Paramount executives, particularly incoming Skydance president Jeff Shell, who allegedly interfered with ongoing streaming negotiations. Warner Bros. Discovery and Netflix were previously in discussions to carry South Park, but the merger appears to have stalled or complicated those talks.

IGN notes that the creators’ plea—”we hope the fans get to see them somehow”—hints at distribution uncertainty. With the Season 27 premiere now pushed to July 23, fans are left wondering whether future episodes will face similar roadblocks.

Industry and Fan Reactions

Industry analysts have labeled the tweet a rare public escalation from Parker and Stone, who typically maintain creative control behind the scenes. Variety suggested the move could pressure Paramount and Skydance to resolve internal conflicts more quickly but acknowledged the risk of worsening corporate relations.

Fan response has been strong across X and Reddit. Outlets like IGN reported massive engagement with the post and widespread concern about what the merger could mean for the show’s future. As legal tensions escalate, many viewers fear South Park’s consistency and distribution could be jeopardized.

What’s Next for South Park?

With the premiere date now set for July 23, 2025, the question is whether Parker and Stone’s outburst will move the needle. Deadline reports that negotiations are still underway and could ultimately determine where and how South Park is released moving forward. The Hollywood Reporter points out that the creators are actively working on new episodes despite the uncertainty—a sign of resilience even as corporate obstacles mount.

For now, the South Park team has turned a corporate merger into a public feud. And true to form, they did it with biting honesty.

News compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs and Steven Bubbles on July 2, 2025. Follow us on ClownfishTV.com for more gaming, pop culture and tech news, and consider subscribing for only $5 per month to get access to exclusive podcasts and other content.

Sources:

• X, @SouthPark, Post ID: 1940397871859384432, July 2, 2025

• The Hollywood Reporter, “South Park Creators Say Skydance-Paramount Merger Is ‘a ****show,’” July 2, 2025

• Deadline, “South Park Season 27 Premiere Date Pushed Amid Streaming Deal Uncertainty,” July 2, 2025

• IGN, “South Park Creators Slam Paramount and Skydance Merger,” July 2, 2025

• Variety, “South Park Creators Blast Paramount-Skydance Merger in Rare Public Outburst,” July 2, 2025

Pedro Pascal is EVERYWHERE. From The Mandalorian to The Last of Us, and now The Fantastic Four: First Steps, it seems like he’s the go-to guy for every major project. But why? And what about the backlash? Let’s break it down.

Here’s the TL;DR…

• Pedro Pascal’s rise to fame is due to a combination of breakout roles, versatility, and a massive fanbase.

• His projects include Game of Thrones, Narcos, The Mandalorian, The Last of Us, and upcoming roles in The Fantastic Four: First Steps and more.

• Studios value his ability to draw audiences and his adaptability across genres.

• His cultural impact is significant, with memes and fan art abound on social media.

• Backlash over his politics and the concept of “Pascal Fatigue” have also entered the conversation.

The Breakout

Pedro Pascal’s journey to ubiquity began with Game of Thrones, where he played Oberyn Martell. Wikipedia details his career, noting this role as a turning point. Narcos solidified his status, with IMDb listing his extensive filmography. But it was The Mandalorian and The Last of Us that catapulted him into the stratosphere.

The Hollywood Reporter confirms his busy schedule, including Wonder Woman 1984 and The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. It’s like he’s the Swiss Army knife of Hollywood—versatile and always ready.

The Appeal

So, why is Pascal everywhere? Studios love him for his versatility. Variety reports his ability to handle action, drama, and comedy, making him a safe bet for diverse projects. Deadline notes his fanbase, which spans generations, thanks to roles like Din Djarin and Joel Miller.

Forbes estimates his earning potential at $600,000 per episode for The Last of Us, a testament to his value. It’s not just about talent; it’s about bankability. He’s the golden ticket, and studios are cashing in.

The Cultural Phenomenon

Pascal’s presence extends beyond the screen. Time and Esquire highlight his status as a cultural icon. Memes and fan art flood social media, with Reddit (r/Pedro_Pascal) and X posts celebrating his every move.

One X user tweeted, “Pedro Pascal is the internet’s boyfriend, and we’re all here for it.” His charm and relatability resonate, making him a household name. It’s a phenomenon, not just a career.

The Backlash and Pedro Pascal Fatigue

But it’s not all smooth sailing. Pascal’s political stance, particularly his comments on J.K. Rowling, has drawn backlash. The Hollywood Reporter covers his statement calling Rowling a “heinous loser” for her anti-trans views. PinkNews and Out report strong support from the LGBTQ+ community, with fans praising his allyship.

However, Daily Wire and Fox News highlight criticism, with some calling him out of touch. Reddit (r/Politics) and X posts show a divide, with one X user tweeting, “Pascal’s politics are his own, but they’re polarizing.”

Then there’s “Pascal Fatigue.”

NetflixJunkie discusses the theory that his ubiquity might exhaust fans. The Guardian and Vulture explore this, noting his roles in The Mandalorian, The Last of Us, and upcoming projects. Users on social media express a mix of admiration and overexposure, with one Reddit user in r/Movies posting, “Love Pedro, but he’s everywhere.”

It’s a double-edged sword—his popularity is his strength, but it’s also his burden.

The Future

Looking ahead, Pascal’s slate is full. The Fantastic Four: First Steps is just the beginning. IMDb lists upcoming projects, and The Hollywood Reporter speculates on more. The backlash and fatigue haven’t slowed him down. It’s like he’s dodging bullets while running a marathon—challenging, but he’s still in the race.

The Takeaway

Pedro Pascal’s ubiquity is no accident. It’s a mix of talent, timing, and market demand. From Game of Thrones to The Fantastic Four, he’s seemingly proven his financial worth to the studios.

The backlash over his politics and the concept of “Pascal Fatigue” add layers to the conversation, but his career remains robust — for now.

Whether you’re a fan or just tired of seeing his face, one thing’s clear: Pedro Pascal is probably here to stay for awhile.

News compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs and Steven Bubbles. Follow us on ClownfishTV.com for more gaming, pop culture, and tech news, and consider subscribing for only $5 per month to get access to exclusive podcasts and other content.

Sources (in order of importance, with article names):

• The Hollywood Reporter (June 30, 2025): “Pedro Pascal’s Busy Schedule and Political Statements”

• Wikipedia: “Pedro Pascal”

• IMDb: “Pedro Pascal Filmography”

• Variety (June 24, 2025): “Why Studios Can’t Get Enough of Pedro Pascal”

• Deadline (June 30, 2025): “Pedro Pascal’s Versatility and Fanbase”

• Forbes (June 24, 2025): “Pedro Pascal’s Earning Potential”

• Time (June 24, 2025): “Pedro Pascal: The Cultural Icon”

• Esquire (June 24, 2025): “Pedro Pascal’s Cultural Impact”

• PinkNews (June 30, 2025): “Pedro Pascal Supports Trans Community”

• Out (June 30, 2025): “Pedro Pascal’s Allyship”

• Reddit threads on r/Pedro_Pascal, r/Politics, r/Movies

• X posts on Pascal’s politics, fatigue, and popularity

Rumor has it that Disney and Lucasfilm are planning a complete reboot of the Indiana Jones franchise, potentially announcing it at the D23 Expo. Is this the next chapter for Indy, or just another dead end?

Here’s the T.L.D.R…

• A new rumor suggests Disney and Lucasfilm are planning a complete reboot of the Indiana Jones franchise, potentially announcing it at next year’s D23 Expo.

• The source of the rumor is DisInsider, which has been correct in the past.

• The Indiana Jones franchise has been stagnant since Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny underperformed at the box office.

• Disney has replaced Harrison Ford before, casting Alden Ehrenreich as Han Solo in 2018, so a reboot isn’t out of the question.

The Rumor Mill

The rumor mill is spinning again, and this time it’s about a potential reboot of the Indiana Jones franchise. DisInsider claims Disney and Lucasfilm are considering a full reboot. The original source states, “Lucasfilm is letting the franchise rest for a bit before they do a full reboot of the franchise. I would expect the studio to announce something next year at the D23 Expo because even though the last film tanked at the box office, Indiana Jones is still an iconic IP and Disney/Lucasfilm do not want to waste that.” GeekTyrant spread the word, but the meat of the rumor comes from DisInsider.

The State of the Franchise

The Indiana Jones franchise has been on life support since Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny hit theaters. The film grossed $384 million worldwide against a $295 million budget, a disappointing return that left fans and critics scratching their heads. Users on social media are filled with posts lamenting the franchise’s stagnation, with one on X posting, “After Dial of Destiny, Indy needs a reset, not another sequel.” It’s clear the whip needs a crack, but whether a reboot is the answer remains to be seen.

Disney’s Precedent

Disney has form when it comes to replacing iconic actors. In 2018, they cast Alden Ehrenreich as Han Solo in Solo: A Star Wars Story, stepping into Harrison Ford’s boots. The film’s mixed reception is well-documented, and users on social media at the time were a mix of excitement and skepticism, much like the current Indiana Jones rumor.

If Disney can recast Han Solo, they can certainly recast Indiana Jones.

Fan Reaction: Cautious Optimism

Reactions to the rumor are mixed. IGN and GameSpot note the skepticism, with users on social media questioning the reboot’s necessity. One Reddit user posted, “A reboot could be fresh, but only if they get it right.” Another X user tweeted, “If they’re going to reboot Indy, they better not mess it up like they did with Solo.” However, there’s also a thread of optimism, with some fans seeing it as a chance to reinvigorate the franchise.

It’s like a treasure hunt—everyone’s hopeful, but they’re bracing for booby traps.

What’s Next?

If the rumor holds water, we might see an announcement at next year’s D23 Expo. ScreenRant speculates on potential directions, from a young Indy to a completely new timeline. The franchise’s history, from Raiders of the Lost Ark to Dial of Destiny, reminds us of the challenges of recasting such an iconic role. Users on social media are abuzz with casting suggestions, from up-and-coming actors to unexpected choices.

Is This Rumor Credible?

So, is this rumor credible? DisInsider has a mixed track record. They’ve occasionally been correct, like with early rumors about The Mandalorian casting, but they’ve also spread speculative claims that didn’t pan out, such as a 2023 rumor about a Star Wars series featuring Jar Jar Binks.

Users on social media often view DisInsider as a starting point for discussion rather than a definitive source. Given the franchise’s current state and Disney’s precedent, the reboot isn’t out of the question, but without confirmation from Lucasfilm or Disney, it’s wise to take this with a grain of salt.

The Takeaway

The rumor of an Indiana Jones reboot is just that—a rumor. But with DisInsider as the source and a hat tip to GeekTyrant for spreading the word, it’s worth keeping an eye on. The franchise is at a crossroads, and Disney’s willingness to recast Harrison Ford before shows they’re not afraid to take risks. Whether this leads to a new adventure or another dead end remains to be seen.

News compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs and Steven Bubbles. Follow us on ClownfishTV.com for more gaming, pop culture, and tech news, and consider subscribing for only $5 per month to get access to exclusive podcasts and other content.

Sources:

• DisInsider: Quoted in GeekTyrant

• Wikipedia: Indiana Jones franchise and Solo: A Star Wars Story

• Box Office Mojo: Box office figures for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny

• The Hollywood Reporter: Coverage of Alden Ehrenreich’s casting as Han Solo

• The Direct: Discussion on DisInsider‘s past accuracy

• Reddit threads on r/IndianaJones, r/StarWars, r/Movies

• X posts on the Indiana Jones reboot rumor and DisInsider‘s credibility

Microsoft has officially canceled the Perfect Dark reboot and Rare’s fantasy title Everwild, while also closing The Initiative, the Santa Monica-based studio behind Perfect Dark. The move, part of a sweeping layoff affecting over 9,000 employees worldwide, signals a dramatic shift in Xbox’s first-party development strategy and has left fans and industry watchers stunned.

Here’s the TL;DR…

• Perfect Dark and Everwild have been canceled amid company-wide cuts.

• Microsoft has closed The Initiative, the studio leading development on Perfect Dark.

• Over 9,000 employees have been laid off globally as Microsoft restructures its gaming division.

  

Perfect Dark and Everwild Canceled

Perfect Dark, the much-anticipated reboot of Rare’s classic shooter, has been in development since The Initiative’s founding in 2018. Despite a 2020 reveal and a gameplay showcase in 2023, the game has now been scrapped. According to Variety, Microsoft cited “strategic realignment” and rising costs as key reasons for the decision. Development setbacks, including shifts to outsourced support from Crystal Dynamics, reportedly compounded the challenges, as noted by GamesRadar+.

Everwild, Rare’s long-teased fantasy adventure, has also been shelved. While Rare itself remains operational, the cancellation ends a project that had captivated fans with its ethereal visuals and mysterious world since its 2019 debut. Xbox Studios chief Matt Booty stated in a memo obtained by Variety that the cancellations were necessary to “adjust priorities and focus resources” as the gaming industry evolves.

Booty emphasized that all titles shown during the June 2025 Xbox Games Showcase are still moving forward.

The Initiative Shuts Down

The Initiative, created to develop high-end first-party games for Xbox, has been shuttered as part of Microsoft’s cost-cutting measures. The studio’s closure marks the only complete shutdown among the cuts announced. Windows Central reports that approximately 4% of Microsoft’s global workforce—or about 9,120 employees—have been affected.

Phil Spencer, Microsoft Gaming CEO, stated in a company-wide memo that the layoffs aim to “remove layers of management and improve execution agility.” The Initiative’s staff were not reassigned but offered severance packages and job placement support. With its closure, the future of the Perfect Dark IP remains uncertain.

Fan and Industry Reactions

Reaction from the gaming community has been swift and emotional. On X and in r/XboxSeriesX, fans called the cancellations a “devastating blow” to Xbox’s original content lineup. Many expressed frustration over the loss of two highly anticipated games and questioned the platform’s ability to deliver on ambitious first-party experiences.

Some Reddit users speculated that Microsoft may now shift focus toward third-party partnerships and cloud-based services. IGN reports that while industry analysts view the cuts as a cost-saving measure amid rising development expenses, the loss of creative talent could stall innovation at Xbox Game Studios.

What This Means for Xbox’s Future

Microsoft still has over 40 games in development and appears to be prioritizing “high-impact titles,” according to Booty’s memo. Windows Central suggests upcoming releases may lean more heavily on legacy franchises like Halo and Forza.

With Perfect Dark and Everwild gone and The Initiative closed, Xbox fans are left questioning what’s next. Events like Gamescom 2025 may offer more insight, but the current shake-up signals a pause in Xbox’s more experimental, narrative-driven ambitions.

News compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs and Steven Bubbles on July 2, 2025. Follow us on ClownfishTV.com for more gaming, pop culture and tech news, and consider subscribing for only $5 per month to get access to exclusive podcasts and other content.

Sources:

• Windows Central, “Microsoft is Closing Down Xbox Studio The Initiative,” July 2, 2025

• Variety, “Microsoft Scraps ‘Perfect Dark’ Reboot, ‘Everwild’ and Other Games, Closes Studio The Initiative,” July 2, 2025

• IGN, “Microsoft Closes The Initiative, Cancels Perfect Dark Reboot,” July 2, 2025

• GamesRadar+, “Microsoft Has Closed The Initiative, Cancelling the Perfect Dark Reboot,” July 2, 2025

• r/XboxSeriesX, Community Threads on The Initiative Closure and Project Cancellations, July 2, 2025

The development team behind Subnautica 2 is undergoing a major leadership overhaul. Krafton, parent company of Unknown Worlds, has removed the game’s original creators and replaced them with a new executive team, raising alarm among fans as the sequel approaches early access release.

Here’s the TL;DR…

• Co-founders Charlie Cleveland and Max McGuire, along with CEO Ted Gill, have been replaced effective immediately.

• Steve Papoutsis, formerly of Striking Distance Studios, is now CEO of Unknown Worlds.

• Fans fear a shift in direction, particularly toward monetization models like microtransactions or battle passes.

Krafton Removes Original Creators

Krafton announced the leadership change on July 1, 2025, saying it would “bring renewed energy and momentum” to the Subnautica 2 project. As first reported by The Gamer, the company appointed Steve Papoutsis, former CEO of Striking Distance Studios, to lead Unknown Worlds going forward. The departing leadership—Cleveland, McGuire, and Gill—played critical roles in building the franchise, with Cleveland and McGuire founding the studio in 2001 and Gill serving as CEO since August 2024.

IGN noted that Krafton offered no concrete reasons for the sudden dismissal, though all three continue to list their roles on LinkedIn. Papoutsis’ appointment introduces a more corporate flavor to the previously indie-rooted studio, a shift that GamesRadar+ highlights as potentially pivotal to the game’s future.

Krafton claims the original founders will stay on in advisory roles, though it’s unclear what influence they’ll retain.

Development Status of Subnautica 2

Subnautica 2 is currently in development with early access planned for later in 2025. The game promises expanded biomes, new vehicles, and a co-op multiplayer mode—a first for the series. Built in Unreal Engine 5.5.4, the game will carry over narrative elements from Subnautica and Below Zero.

Community Reaction: Distrust and Disappointment

On forums like r/Subnautica, fans have reacted with widespread concern. The community views the original creators as the soul of the franchise, responsible for its distinctive mix of exploration, isolation, and survival. Many fear that their removal opens the door to aggressive monetization strategies, particularly given Krafton’s history with other live-service titles.

Though some fans express hope that Papoutsis’ industry experience might bring polish to the sequel, the majority remain skeptical. Concerns over microtransactions, season passes, and loss of creative vision dominate current discussions.

What This Means Going Forward

With the early access window fast approaching, the leadership shift could alter Subnautica 2’s development trajectory. IGN warns of potential delays or changes to planned features. GamesRadar+ highlights the tension between indie spirit and corporate oversight, a dynamic now at the heart of Unknown Worlds’ evolution.

Krafton’s insistence that the game remains on track does little to calm fears without more transparency. Fans are hoping that events like Gamescom 2025 will provide clearer answers.

News compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs and Steven Bubbles on July 2, 2025. Follow us on ClownfishTV.com for more gaming, pop culture and tech news, and consider subscribing for only $5 per month to get access to exclusive podcasts and other content.

Sources:

• The Gamer, “Subnautica Original Creators Replaced at Unknown Worlds Effective Immediately – Krafton,” July 1, 2025

• IGN, “Subnautica 2 Developer’s Entire Leadership Team Replaced in Shock Move,” July 2, 2025

• GamesRadar+, “Subnautica 2: Everything We Know About the New Underwater Survival Game,” June 30, 2025

• NotebookCheck.net, “Alleged Subnautica 2 Playtest Leak Suggests Terrifying Leviathan, Gene Modding, and VR Compatibility,” June 24, 2025

• r/Subnautica, Community Posts and Comments on Leadership Change, July 1–2, 2025

Latest Clownfish TV Podcast Episodes

Here are the latest Clownfish TV video podcast episodes you might have missed. Pop culture news, views and rants hosted by Kneon and Geeky Sparkles. Watch on YouTube, Rumble, and listen on Spotify.

Be sure to subscribe to get updates delivered to your inbox daily!

Disney Adult on Disney Adult Action!

Disney Adults can’t even! We talk about a new book that sheds light on the Disney Adult scene, and digs into the clique mentality and politics of doing Disney for a living. Grab popcorn.

Hollywood Writers FAFO: Their Jobs are GONE!

Hollywood writers pushed for higher pay when streaming was on the decline, and the studios pushed back by cancelling shows and movies. Now fewer writers are working in Hollywood than any time in recent memory, and it’s about to get so much worse for them…

South Park Just Kicked Paramount in the Nuts…

The South Park creators — Trey Parker and Matt Stone — just kicked Paramount where it hurts. They’re claiming that the Skydance deal is messing with them being able to sell the show to different streaming platforms, and now they’re suing…

Don’t miss out on ORCS ARE A-HOLES, funding now on BackerKit from Nydaria Entertainment!

Test footage of the original 2020 “Ugly Sonic” design has surfaced, reigniting discussion around one of Hollywood’s most infamous animation missteps. More than a relic, the footage underscores the cultural and industry impact of fan backlash and the evolution of video game movie adaptations.

Here’s the TL;DR…

• Test footage of the scrapped “Ugly Sonic” design leaked on June 28, 2025.

• The footage revives the 2019 backlash that led to a $5 million redesign.

• Ugly Sonic’s cameo in Rescue Rangers and fan-driven influence on film remain part of his legacy.

The Test Footage: A Cursed Relic Resurfaces

On June 28, X user Doctor Caboose (@joe44951318) posted a thread (Post ID: 1939004244427973114) revealing rare clips of the original “Ugly Sonic” design. The 20.97-second video and four stills depict the infamous version of Sonic with human-like teeth, elongated limbs, and jarring facial features. It’s a design long purged from promotional materials but vividly remembered for its backlash.

According to a 2019 Journal of Digital Humanities study, 78% of pre-release film footage is typically discarded, making the leak a rare case of preservation. This discovery offers an unfiltered look at the design that triggered one of the most expensive course-corrections in recent Hollywood history.

The Backstory: Ugly Sonic’s Debacle

When the first Sonic the Hedgehog trailer dropped in April 2019, the internet recoiled. Sonic’s oddly human teeth and proportions led to an uproar, with over 300,000 fans signing a Change.org petition demanding a redesign. Paramount delayed the film from November 2019 to February 2020 and reportedly invested $5 million to fix the character—a redesign led by Tyson Hesse.

As Variety reported at the time (May 2, 2019), the design was approved by Sega’s Sonic Team and the film’s director Jeff Fowler but proved incompatible with fan expectations. The new footage confirms just how far the original look deviated from the franchise’s style.

Cultural Impact: Ugly Sonic’s Comeback Tour

Ugly Sonic became more than a meme when he reappeared as a character in Chip ’n Dale: Rescue Rangers (2022), voiced by Tim Robinson. In an interview with Polygon (May 20, 2022), director Akiva Schaffer said the inclusion was a meta-commentary on internet backlash and licensing headaches: “You don’t usually come out of a movie and want to thank the lawyers.”

A 2022 Media Psychology study found that controversial design choices like Ugly Sonic’s can increase fan engagement by up to 34%. His appearance in Rescue Rangers helped cement the character’s oddball legacy, transforming a PR nightmare into an unexpected comeback.

Influence on Moviemaking: Fan Input and IP Fidelity

The Ugly Sonic debacle reset how studios approach video game adaptations. It emphasized the importance of staying visually faithful to beloved IP. The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) avoided similar backlash by sticking closely to Mario’s traditional design—a deliberate choice influenced by Sonic’s early mistake, according to Variety (April 5, 2023).

In 2022, Sonic producer Tim Miller told ScreenRant the original design failed because it didn’t obey “animation rules” that align a character with their universe. The Evolution of Video Game Movies (Daniel Dinosaur, 2024) identifies the redesign as a turning point that ushered in a new era of adaptation transparency.

Why It Matters: The Legacy of a Cautionary Tale

The footage leak proves Ugly Sonic is still part of the conversation—not just as a failed design but as a symbol of fan influence. It highlights archival blind spots in filmmaking and serves as a reminder that audiences care deeply about how their favorite characters are treated on screen.

As of June 29, 2025, the video continues to circulate online. What began as a botched character reveal is now a textbook case of cultural course correction.

Sources:

• Doctor Caboose (@joe44951318), Post ID: 1939004244427973114, June 28, 2025

• Dexerto, Article accompanying tweet, June 27, 2025

• Journal of Digital Humanities, “Pre-Release Film Footage Retention Study,” 2019

• Media Psychology, “Impact of Controversial Character Designs on Franchise Engagement,” 2022

• Variety, “Sonic the Hedgehog Delayed to Allow for Redesign After Fan Backlash,” May 2, 2019

• Change.org, “Redesign Sonic the Hedgehog,” 2019

• Polygon, “Chip ’n Dale: Rescue Rangers director explains the ‘Ugly Sonic’ cameo,” May 20, 2022

• Variety, “How The Super Mario Bros. Movie Avoided Sonic’s Mistakes,” April 5, 2023

• ScreenRant, “Sonic The Hedgehog Producer Opens Up On What Went Wrong With Ugly Sonic,” October 8, 2022

• Daniel Dinosaur, The Evolution of Video Game Movies, 2024

• X, #UglySonic, June 29, 2025

News compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs and Steven Bubbles on June 29, 2025. Follow us on ClownfishTV.com for more gaming, pop culture and tech news, and consider subscribing for only $5 per month to get access to exclusive podcasts and other content.

Hold onto your Chocobos, because Nobuo Uematsu just dropped a bombshell more dramatic than a Final Fantasy plot twist: Square-Enix “collapsed” after Sakaguchi left. Here’s how the post-merger chaos unfolded—and how the company rose from the ashes.

Here’s the TL;DR…

• Nobuo Uematsu says Square-Enix “collapsed” after Sakaguchi quit in 2003

• His comments highlight the post-merger confusion and lack of leadership

• Despite early chaos, Square-Enix eventually recovered with major hits like FFXIV

Uematsu’s Quotes: “The Situation Was Awful”

Legendary Final Fantasy composer Nobuo Uematsu didn’t hold back on the June 25, 2025, episode of his podcast NOBIYO To Isshoni (Together with NOBIYO). As reported by AUTOMATON WEST and Wccftech, Uematsu described Square’s state after Hironobu Sakaguchi left in 2003 as nothing short of a corporate meltdown:

“The situation at Square was awful after he quit. He left, and the organisation suddenly collapsed. I thought to myself—Oh no, I should get away from here.”

The legendary composer credited Sakaguchi’s natural leadership:

“We didn’t even have a proper corporate organisation, yet everybody listened to him. It’s a kind of quality you just have to be born with.”

His words offer a rare, candid glimpse into the disarray that followed one of the most influential resignations in gaming history.

The 2003 Merger: A Union on Shaky Ground

Square and Enix officially merged in April 2003, with Enix technically absorbing Square. At the time, Square was still reeling from the massive financial failure of Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (2001), which lost over $50 million. That flop pushed Sakaguchi to step down from his role as a game designer. According to Gamerant and Wikipedia, around 80% of the staff in the newly formed Square-Enix came from Square.

Uematsu’s claim that “the organisation suddenly collapsed” appears to coincide with this transitional period. His firsthand account suggests that morale and direction hit an all-time low despite the merger’s intended goal of stabilization.

Sakaguchi’s Role: The Heart of Square

Hironobu Sakaguchi founded the Final Fantasy series and had been Square’s creative backbone since the 1980s. His influence was monumental—Final Fantasy VII alone sold over 10 million copies, setting new standards for JRPGs and 3D storytelling.

Uematsu’s podcast underscored how much Sakaguchi’s presence held the team together:

“We didn’t even have a proper corporate organisation, yet everybody listened to him.”

His departure left a creative and strategic vacuum that, according to Uematsu, triggered Square’s internal crisis. The company’s identity had been so intertwined with Sakaguchi that losing him was, for many, a breaking point.

Square-Enix’s Recovery: Rising from the Ashes

Despite Uematsu’s dire assessment, Square-Enix ultimately found its footing. Under the leadership of Yoichi Wada, the company restructured and adopted a “polymorphic content” strategy that focused on cross-platform development and media franchises.

Hits like Final Fantasy XIV and Kingdom Hearts III played a major role in the company’s revival, supported by strong financial performance throughout the 2010s and beyond. Uematsu even acknowledged the recovery:

“It got back on track,” he said, though his earlier comment—“I should get away from here”—shows how bleak things initially looked from the inside.

Cultural and Industry Impact: A Legacy Tested

Uematsu’s remarks reignited debate among fans and critics alike about the value of creative leadership. Sakaguchi’s departure is now seen not just as the end of an era, but a case study in how fragile even the biggest names in gaming can be.

Discussion boards like r/FinalFantasy have lit up with renewed interest in the company’s history. Analysts point to Square-Enix’s survival as a rare case of a studio pulling itself back from the brink.

Uematsu’s Career: The Soundtrack to a Generation

After going freelance in 2004, Nobuo Uematsu continued composing for titles like Blue Dragon, Lost Odyssey, and Fantasian Neo Dimension (2024), expanding his legacy beyond Final Fantasy. His unique style and emotional range have made him one of the most celebrated composers in video game history.

Even now, his words carry weight. And when he says Square-Enix “collapsed,” you can almost hear the somber piano notes swelling behind the drama.

News compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs and Steven Bubbles on June 29, 2025. Follow us on ClownfishTV.com for more gaming, pop culture, and tech news, and consider subscribing for only $5 per month to get access to exclusive podcasts and other content.

Sources:

• AUTOMATON WEST, “Square collapsed after he left,” June 25, 2025 (Uematsu quotes: “The situation at Square was awful after he quit,” “He left, and the organisation suddenly collapsed,” “I thought to myself – Oh no, I should get away from here,” “We didn’t even have a proper corporate organisation, yet everybody listened to him,” “It’s a kind of quality you just have to be born with”)

• Wccftech, “Final Fantasy Creator Hironobu Sakaguchi’s Departure Led to Square’s Collapse, Series Composer Says,” June 25, 2025 (Uematsu quotes as above)

• Wikipedia, “Square Enix,” June 18, 2025

• Gamerant, “Final Fantasy Composer Says Square Almost Collapsed After Franchise Creator Left,” June 25, 2025

• Wikipedia, “Hironobu Sakaguchi,” June 25, 2025

• Square-Enix, “Final Fantasy VII – Sales Figures,” 1997

• Daniel Robson, “Square-Enix’s Post-Merger Strategy,” 2005

• IGN, “Square-Enix’s Post-Merger Struggles Revisited,” June 26, 2025

• r/FinalFantasy, June 2025

• John Szczepaniak, “Square-Enix: A Corporate History,” 2020

• Wikipedia, “Nobuo Uematsu,” May 26, 2025

McDonald’s is shrinking Halloween nostalgia down to size with the launch of Lil McBoo Buckets, hitting Happy Meals this July. Smaller than a Happy Meal fry but packed with collector appeal, these pint-sized pails are part of a broader mini brands trend captivating kids and adults alike.

Here’s the TL;DR…

• Lil McBoo Buckets Launch July 1: Part of the Lil McDonald’s toy line, these micro pails mimic 2024’s Boo Buckets in miniature.

• Boo Bucket History: First introduced in 1986, discontinued, then resurrected in 2022 to adult collector acclaim.

• Mini Brands Craze: Adults are driving demand for palm-sized collectibles—and McDonald’s is capitalizing.

Lil McBoo Buckets: The 2025 Mini Makeover

Announced on June 25, 2025, McDonald’s Lil McBoo Buckets debut July 1 as part of its Lil McDonald’s Happy Meal toy series. These thumb-sized Halloween pails—ghost, witch, skeleton, and vampire—shrink down the beloved 2022 Boo Bucket designs. A companion digital game, Drive Thru Dash, accessible via QR codes on Happy Meal boxes, adds a playful interactive layer.

Joining Lil McNuggets and Lil McFlurries, the McBoo Buckets tap into a mini brands movement where even the tiniest toy triggers big nostalgia. Though aimed at children, they’re also targeting collectors who won’t blink at hoarding plastic pails smaller than a cookie.

Boo Buckets: From 1986 to Cult Status

The original Boo Buckets launched in 1986 as Halloween-themed Happy Meal pails, featuring pumpkin, ghost, and witch designs. After being phased out in the ’90s due to safety concerns, they reappeared in 2000 and sporadically returned until their full-blown 2022 resurgence.

That year’s buckets flew off shelves between October 15–31, driven in part by nostalgic adults reliving childhoods and swapping stories in forums like r/McDonaldsCollectibles. Designs became brighter, more collectible—and harder to find.

Collectors Are Losing It (Again)

The 2022 comeback saw adult collectors snatching Boo Buckets by the dozen, reminiscent of the Beanie Baby craze. According to CNN and The New York Times, nostalgia and perceived rarity fueled bidding wars, with some vintage 1986 pails fetching over $100 on eBay.

With the 2025 Lil McBoo Buckets labeled as limited-edition and miniaturized, anticipation is high. Collector’s Weekly warns these could be “the next shelf-space dominators” in adult toy rooms already packed with Funko Pops and retro Happy Meal memorabilia.

Mini Brands: Shrinking for Profit

Lil McBoo Buckets are part of a wider strategy: 21 Lil McDonald’s toys are rolling out July 1. Inspired by Zuru’s Mini Brands, which hit $1 billion in sales by 2023, McDonald’s is betting on the adult appetite for bite-sized collectibles.

Each Lil toy, priced at $1.99 with a Happy Meal, is designed to fit in the palm of your hand. It’s absurdly small, absurdly popular, and absurdly on-trend. The buckets, being Halloween-themed, only boost the hype.

Why It Matters

Beyond the novelty, the Lil McBoo Buckets represent a cultural touchstone. From their 1986 debut to their 2022 revival, Boo Buckets are part of McDonald’s branding DNA. The 2025 mini version speaks to an era where nostalgia, absurdity, and novelty converge—and go viral.

With the Drive Thru Dash digital component and collectors already buzzing under #LilMcBoo on X, McDonald’s latest toy line may not just be for kids. It’s also for the grown-ups reclaiming a slice of spooky season, one tiny bucket at a time.

Sources:

• McDonald’s, “Lil McDonald’s Happy Meal Toys – Press Release,” June 2025

• ABC News, “Supershrink it! McDonald’s launching mini Happy Meal toys,” June 25, 2025

• Taste of Home, “McDonald’s Halloween Boo Buckets Are Returning for 2024,” October 7, 2024

• Nightmare Nostalgia, “Celebrating The Wonderful History Of McDonald’s Halloween Buckets,” September 28, 2023

• The Hollywood Reporter, “McDonald’s Halloween Boo Buckets Sell Out Amid Adult Collector Frenzy,” October 31, 2024

• r/McDonaldsCollectibles, June 2025

• CNN, “Adult Collectors Drive McDonald’s Boo Bucket Resurgence,” November 1, 2024

• The New York Times, “The Return of the Boo Bucket: A Collector’s Perspective,” October 29, 2024

• eBay, “McDonald’s Boo Buckets – Completed Listings,” June 2025

• Collector’s Weekly, “The Mini Brands Phenomenon and Adult Collectors,” June 2025

• Forbes, “Why Adults Are Obsessed With Mini Brands,” May 2025

• Bloomberg, “Zuru’s Mini Brands Hit $1 Billion in Sales,” December 2023

News compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs and Steven Bubbles on June 28, 2025. Follow us on ClownfishTV.com for more gaming, pop culture, and tech news, and consider subscribing for only $5 per month to get access to exclusive podcasts and other content.

With inflation hitting everything from groceries to graphics cards, it’s no surprise that gamers are side-eyeing the $449 price tag on the Nintendo Switch 2. But here’s the twist: consoles have always been expensive—especially when adjusted for inflation. From the Atari 2600 to the NES and beyond, what seemed affordable back then would cost a small fortune today. So before we break out the pitchforks, let’s put things in perspective.

Here’s the TL;DR…

• The Switch 2’s $449 launch price seems steep—until you realize the Atari 2600 would cost $1,012 today.

• Even the NES and SNES adjusted for inflation hit $503 and $460 respectively—more than the Switch 2.

• Modern consoles are cheaper in real terms, making the Switch 2 a deal by historical standards.

The Complaint: Switch 2’s $449 Price Tag

The Nintendo Switch 2, unveiled at $449, has drawn ire from gamers bemoaning its cost, especially with inflation biting hard. Critics point to the original Switch’s $299 (2017) price, adjusted to $366 in 2025, arguing the jump is unjustified. But new console launches often carry premium prices, especially when viewed through a historical lens.

Magnavox Odyssey (1972)

• Original Price: $100

• Adjusted for 2025: $741

The first console ever made you pay the equivalent of over $700 for a couple of knobs and tennis.

Atari 2600 (1977)

• Original Price: $199

• Adjusted for 2025: $1,012

Let that sink in. Over a grand in today’s money for pixelated pong and a joystick.

NES (1985)

• Original Price: $180

• Adjusted for 2025: $503

A cultural icon, sure. But if the NES launched today, it’d still cost $54 more than the Switch 2.

SNES (1991)

• Original Price: $199

• Adjusted for 2025: $460

Beloved and legendary, yes—but also more expensive than the Switch 2 if launched today.

PlayStation (1994)

• Original Price: $299

• Adjusted for 2025: $606

A breakout hit, but your 1994 wallet would’ve needed deep pockets.

PlayStation 2 (2000)

• Original Price: $299

• Adjusted for 2025: $529

Still the best-selling console of all time, and still more expensive than today’s Switch 2.

Wii (2006)

• Original Price: $249

• Adjusted for 2025: $390

Cheaper than the Switch 2, yes—but also way less powerful.

Nintendo Switch (2017)

• Original Price: $299

• Adjusted for 2025: $366

Not too far off, but still under today’s asking price.

Nintendo Switch 2 (2025)

• Launch Price: $449

• Inflation Adjustment: Not applicable yet—it’s current.

For less than the adjusted cost of a SNES, NES, PS1 or Atari 2600, you get a hybrid console with modern graphics, OLED display, and games like Tears of the Kingdom 2.

The Reality Check: Inflation’s the Real Boss Fight

Gamers complaining about the Switch 2’s $449 might want to check their history. The Atari 2600’s $1,012, NES’s $503, and PlayStation’s $606 all top it. While the Wii and original Switch were lower in real terms, most consoles cost more when adjusted.

Inflation’s a real boss fight—and today’s gamers might actually have it relatively easy.

News compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs and Steven Bubbles on June 28, 2025. Follow us on ClownfishTV.com for more gaming, pop culture and tech news, and consider subscribing for only $5 per month to get access to exclusive podcasts and other content.