PBS NewsHour Weekend Season 1 Episode 40 Season 1, Episode 40

On this episode of PBS NewsHour Weekend, we travel to the California headquarters of the video game company, Electronic Arts (EA) to explore the influence of player behavior on game development. In recent years, EA has faced backlash from gamers for practices like loot boxes, a type of in-game gambling mechanic. But as industry insiders explain, the feedback from players is what ultimately drives changes to the games.

Next, we look at the ongoing trade war between the U.S. and China and its impact on American farmers. Soybean exports to China have plummeted since the tariffs were imposed, devastating soybean farmers who relied on China as a major market. But as correspondent Megan Thompson reports, farmers are finding ways to adapt and survive in turbulent times.

Then, we turn to the devastating effects of heat waves on low-income neighborhoods. As climate change continues to make extreme temperatures more common, people living in poverty are at greater risks for heat-related illnesses. Correspondent Stephanie Sy visits one community in Baltimore that's feeling the heat and explores possible solutions to this growing problem.

Finally, we examine the rise of silent discos and the unique social experiences they offer. Silent discos, where participants wear wireless headphones to listen to music, have exploded in popularity in recent years. But as correspondent Hari Sreenivasan reports, these events are about much more than just dancing. They're creating new ways for people to connect and interact with each other in a world increasingly dominated by screens.

Tune in to PBS NewsHour Weekend Season 1, Episode 40 for these stories and more.