Tag: Game Pass

  • Ex-Microsoft Exec Slams Xbox Branding; Calls for Console Exit

    Ex-Microsoft Exec Slams Xbox Branding; Calls for Console Exit

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox is shifting towards multi-platform publishing, raising concerns about the brand’s identity and hardware focus.
    2. Mike Ybarra suggests Xbox should aim to be the “world’s largest publisher of entertainment content,” which worries console owners.
    3. Microsoft’s marketing efforts, such as the “This is an Xbox” campaign, struggle to connect the brand with TVs and VR headsets.
    4. A partnership with AMD hints at possible new hardware, but the lack of exclusive titles may deter console upgrades.
    5. Backward compatibility and cloud streaming options are important for future Xbox systems, as Microsoft continues to offer classic games on various platforms.

    Facing rumors of layoffs and a move towards multi-platform publishing, the Xbox Gaming division is experiencing a period of change. With less emphasis on current Xbox consoles, there’s uncertainty regarding the brand’s identity. Mike Ybarra, who held various executive roles at Microsoft for two decades before departing in 2019, recently shared his thoughts on social media, asserting that Xbox must clarify its strategic direction.

    Future of Xbox

    When readers inquired about how Microsoft should manage its gaming endeavors moving ahead, Ybarra suggested that Xbox should aim to be the “world’s largest publisher of entertainment content.” This comment raised concerns among Xbox console owners, who feel that the company is overlooking the hardware aspect. Microsoft has already started offering previously exclusive titles on alternative consoles, which diminishes the benefits of owning a Series X or Series S.

    Marketing Challenges

    Another issue relates to how Microsoft’s marketing has been received. The “This is an Xbox” campaign seeks to merge its games and subscription services across various devices. However, many gamers do not associate TVs and VR headsets with the Xbox brand.

    Hardware Development

    Even with its focus on multiple devices, Microsoft’s commitment to hardware development might still be present. The company recently announced a partnership with AMD, which could indicate the creation of a new Xbox console. Nevertheless, with some experts predicting a successor to the Series X, it’s uncertain what role this new system would play. Without exclusive titles for Xbox and various ways to access Game Pass, potential buyers may lack a strong incentive to upgrade.

    The forthcoming Asus ROG Xbox Ally is set to feature a familiar user interface and control layout. However, many critics view it as a tweaked Windows handheld instead of a true Xbox console.

    Backward Compatibility

    Investing in future Xbox gaming systems could be appealing if backward compatibility with older games is offered. Nonetheless, Microsoft appears to be focused on making its classic titles available on other platforms as well. Options like cloud streaming or emulation are being explored to keep older Xbox games playable.

    Ybarra suggests that the Xbox gaming division should prioritize software and services. However, whether it’s for better or worse, Microsoft has not completely turned its back on its hardware ambitions.

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    Ex-Microsoft Exec Slams Xbox Branding; Calls for Console Exit
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  • Microsoft Gaming Job Cuts Could Affect Xbox Availability in Europe

    Microsoft Gaming Job Cuts Could Affect Xbox Availability in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is planning significant layoffs in the gaming sector, potentially impacting Xbox operations in Europe.
    2. Countries like Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland, Switzerland, and Austria may experience disruptions in Xbox distribution networks.
    3. The future of hardware development for Xbox is uncertain, with a shift towards a more PC-like design for new devices.
    4. Microsoft is emphasizing digital gaming, reducing physical game copies, and promoting services like Game Pass and cloud streaming.
    5. Despite declining Xbox console sales, Microsoft hopes consumers will adapt to digital gaming, while PlayStation remains a strong competitor.

    As previously hinted in June, Bloomberg has reported that Microsoft is preparing to lay off a significant number of employees in the gaming sector. This reorganization could take place as soon as the month ends. Unlike past layoffs, these changes might have a lasting effect on the future of Xbox consoles. Central European gamers could be among the first to feel the impact. Tom Warren from The Verge anticipates that Microsoft will cease certain Xbox operations in this region.

    Potential Closures in Europe

    Warren doesn’t go into great detail, but it appears that some distribution networks in various European countries could be affected. The countries that might be impacted include Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland, Switzerland, and Austria. There are rumors among gamers that shipments of the Xbox Series X and S could completely halt. Reports from European consumers indicate that these Xbox consoles have become harder to find.

    Changes in Microsoft’s Strategy

    The restructuring in Europe seems to reflect Microsoft’s changing strategy for Gaming. While the company has formed a partnership with Asus for the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds, the future of hardware development remains uncertain. Microsoft recently revealed plans to collaborate with AMD for a possible successor to the Series X. However, some analysts think that this new device could look more like a Windows PC rather than a classic console.

    Shift to Digital Gaming

    Residents of Central Europe may also find it difficult to locate physical game copies in stores. Microsoft has decreased the number of first-party Xbox games that are shipped on discs. Instead, they are promoting digital downloads via the Xbox Store. The company is focusing on services like Game Pass and cloud streaming, which can be accessed on PCs and mobile devices. Consequently, Microsoft is becoming less dependent on distributing gaming hardware worldwide.

    Despite a decline in Xbox console sales in Europe, some fans are still feeling let down. Microsoft is optimistic that these consumers will transition into the digital age. Until then, PlayStation remains a viable alternative with its PS5 consoles.

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  • Steam Games Now Accessible on Xbox App for Windows Handhelds

    Steam Games Now Accessible on Xbox App for Windows Handhelds

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft announced two new Xbox handheld gaming devices in partnership with Asus, distinct from the Asus ROG Ally and ROG Ally X.
    2. A redesign of the Xbox app is in progress, specifically tailored for handheld gaming to compete with the Steam Deck.
    3. The updated Xbox app allows integration of games from other platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Battle.net, currently available to Xbox Insiders.
    4. Supported game stores for the Xbox app include Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and potentially others like Steam and Epic Games Store, with automatic library updates for installed games.
    5. New features in the Xbox app include the ability to search the library by publisher and manage settings for included stores, enhancing user navigation and experience.

    At the start of June, Microsoft revealed two new Xbox handheld gaming devices created in partnership with Asus. While they have similar names, these devices are not the same as the Asus ROG Ally and ROG Ally X, even though Microsoft is also incorporating Windows 11. To enhance its competitiveness against the Steam Deck, Microsoft is planning a redesign of the Xbox app, tailoring it specifically for handheld gaming.

    New Features for Gamers

    To make it easier for users to access games without switching constantly between the Xbox app and other launchers like Steam, the Epic Games Store, or Battle.net, Microsoft has rolled out an update for the Xbox app. This update now allows games from those platforms to be added to the Xbox library and launched directly from the Xbox app itself. Currently, this feature is exclusive to Xbox Insiders, which are members of Microsoft’s beta program, but all Microsoft ROG Xbox Ally (X) users should have it available by Christmas at the latest.

    Supported Game Stores

    Besides Xbox, Game Pass, and Battle.net, Microsoft has only referred to “leading PC stores,” likely meaning Steam, but it could also include the Epic Games Store and GOG. The list of supported stores is expected to grow over time. If a game is installed from one of these platforms, it will automatically show up in the library and in the “Recently Played” section of the Xbox app. Users can manage their app settings to choose which stores to include in the library at any time. Another new addition is the ability to search the library by publisher, which should simplify navigation through the Game Pass library.

    Conclusion

    In summary, Microsoft is making strides to enhance the Xbox app for handheld gaming, aiming to create a seamless experience for users. With new features and support for various game stores, gamers will find it easier to enjoy their favorite titles.

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  • 5 New Games Coming to Xbox Game Pass, Including Legendary RTS

    5 New Games Coming to Xbox Game Pass, Including Legendary RTS

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is adding five new titles to Game Pass, including strategy games and unique life simulation experiences.
    2. “Against the Storm” allows players to create settlements and manage resources in a fantasy realm while facing changing weather and challenges.
    3. “Volcano Princess” features a single dad raising his daughter in a magical kingdom, combining life simulation, RPG, and visual novel elements.
    4. The Warcraft series has been pivotal in the real-time strategy genre, with remastered versions of the original games available on Game Pass.
    5. “Warcraft III: Reforged” has received significant updates, including a new user interface and ranked ladder system, enhancing the gameplay experience.

    After a more calm time with only three new games, Microsoft is speeding up as June ends, adding five new titles to Game Pass. For those who enjoy strategy, there’s exciting news: Against the Storm joins the lineup, along with Warcraft III: Reforged, which is part of one of the most famous real-time strategy series ever. But if strategy games aren’t your favorite, you might find Volcano Princess appealing with its special blend of life sim, RPG elements, and storytelling like a visual novel.

    Discover the World of Volcano Princess

    In Volcano Princess, you take on the part of a single dad in the magical Volcano Kingdom. After the loss of his wife, he must raise his daughter while helping her face an unclear future. The decisions you make in the game will shape her character, beliefs, and final fate – whether that means living a simple life or possibly becoming royalty.

    You will be in charge of your daughter’s everyday routine, picking her activities and aiding her in learning skills such as magic, manners, and sword fighting. Volcano Princess combines life simulation, RPG, and visual novel features, with your family’s tale unfolding through conversations, battles, and mini-games in a vividly detailed environment.

    Engage in Strategy with Against the Storm

    In Against the Storm, you act as a viceroy for an immortal queen in a gloomy fantasy realm filled with endless rain. Your mission is to create new settlements, manage limited resources, and ensure various species survive before the next destructive storm wipes everything out.

    This game mixes city-building with roguelite elements. You’ll have to create settlements for different species – humans, beavers, lizards, and harpies – each with unique needs and skills. Achieving success relies on forming efficient production chains, wisely managing resources, and maintaining peace among the groups. With changing weather, incoming storms, and unexpected events, your strategy will need to adapt continuously. Between gameplay sessions, you can unlock lasting upgrades that aid in long-term development.

    The Legacy of Warcraft

    The Warcraft series has played a key role in shaping the real-time strategy genre. In the original game, Warcraft: Orcs & Humans, you lead either human or orc armies, build bases, gather resources, and fight for power in a dark fantasy realm. The sequel, Tides of Darkness, took the concept further with naval combat, new units, and a richer narrative – which was even more enhanced by the Beyond the Dark Portal expansion. The series reached its peak with Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos and its expansion, The Frozen Throne. Featuring four unique factions, hero units with special powers, RPG features, and cinematic storylines, these games continue to be important milestones in the genre.

    For strategy enthusiasts, there’s good news: all three Warcraft titles are now available in remastered versions. Warcraft I and II received official remakes in 2024, showcasing HD graphics and a modern interface. Simultaneously, Warcraft III: Reforged saw significant enhancements with Update 2.0, which brought a new user interface and a ranked ladder system. All three titles will soon be available with Xbox Game Pass.

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  • Xbox Classics Program May Bring Xbox 360 Games to PC

    Xbox Classics Program May Bring Xbox 360 Games to PC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is reinforcing its “players first” strategy by collaborating with an emulation team to bring classic Xbox games to modern platforms.
    2. The project, tentatively named “Xbox Classics,” aims to make Xbox 360 and original Xbox titles available on PC, modern consoles, and cloud gaming services like Game Pass and xCloud.
    3. Enhanced versions of these games will feature improved graphics, stability, and support for handheld consoles, rather than just being simple re-releases.
    4. A potential game lineup for this initiative includes titles like Fable 2, Skate 3, and Batman: Arkham Asylum, with more games expected to be added.
    5. Microsoft has not officially confirmed the Xbox Classics program, and licensing issues may affect the expansion of the emulated game library.

    Microsoft appears to be reinforcing its “players first” strategy, and if the latest rumors are accurate, exciting developments are on the horizon for fans of classic Xbox games. The company is reportedly collaborating with an emulation team to make older titles, including those from the Xbox 360 and the original Xbox, available on PC, modern Xbox consoles, and cloud gaming services. These games are expected to be upgraded for current technology.

    Leaker Insights

    This information comes from the well-known leaker eXtas1s, who recently discussed Xbox’s collaboration with the Xenia Canary team in his latest YouTube video (linked below). Xenia Canary is a specialized version of the open-source Xenia emulator, focused on Xbox 360 game emulation. According to the leaker, a source within Xbox reveals that the project is tentatively named “Xbox Classics.” It aims to deliver games from the Xbox 360 and original Xbox to modern consoles and PC via Game Pass and xCloud. This initiative further emphasizes Xbox’s commitment to backward compatibility.

    Enhanced Gaming Experience

    These titles won’t simply be re-releases; they are set to feature enhanced stability, improved graphics, integration with Game Pass, and support for handheld consoles. Although there are no specific release dates for an official announcement, the leaker mentions that it is expected to coincide with the 25th anniversary of Xbox, coming in November 2026. The announcement is believed to happen in two separate waves throughout 2026.

    Potential Game Lineup

    The list of games to be optimized in this initiative reportedly includes Fable 2, Skate 3, and Batman: Arkham Asylum, among others. This emulation platform is designed to allow for additional titles to be included, all while offering better performance and enhancements.

    However, licensing issues may pose a challenge, and Microsoft will need to navigate this aspect to expand the library of emulated games. It’s important to highlight that Microsoft has not confirmed any details regarding the rumored Xbox Classics program, so these claims should be approached with caution.

    eXtas1s on YouTube, Xenia Canary on GitHub.

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  • Next Week on Xbox Game Pass: 3 New Games, 2 Day-One Releases

    Next Week on Xbox Game Pass: 3 New Games, 2 Day-One Releases

    Key Takeaways

    1. Three new titles added to Game Pass: Lost in Random: The Eternal Die, FBC: Firebreak, and Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time.
    2. Crash Bandicoot 4 features classic 3D platforming gameplay with new mechanics involving four Quantum Masks.
    3. Lost in Random: The Eternal Die introduces isometric hack-and-slash gameplay with roguelite elements and a focus on upgrades and customization.
    4. FBC: Firebreak is a cooperative first-person shooter set in the Control universe, featuring team-based gameplay against supernatural enemies.
    5. Game Pass lineup offers a mix of new experiences and nostalgic favorites for players.

    While Microsoft brought five new games to Game Pass in the second week of June, the third week sees only three new titles. Among them are two exciting new releases – Lost in Random: The Eternal Die and FBC: Firebreak. Fans of classic platform games can rejoice with the addition of Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time, which is a well-loved installment in the famous series.

    A Look at Crash Bandicoot 4

    It’s About Time marks the fourth and latest installment in the beloved Crash Bandicoot franchise, having launched in October 2020. Staying faithful to its origins, this game is a linear 3D platformer where players control the playful marsupial, Crash Bandicoot. The story takes place after Crash Bandicoot 3, where villains Dr. Neo Cortex and Dr. N. Tropy have escaped from their dimensional prison and are ripping apart reality itself to take over the multiverse. It’s up to Crash and his sister Coco, along with four ancient Quantum Masks, to put a stop to their plans.

    Gameplay Features

    Regarding gameplay, It’s About Time remains true to the traditional Crash Bandicoot style. Players will run, jump, spin, smash crates, dodge obstacles, and fight enemies just like in the classic games, but with improved controls and skillfully designed levels. The introduction of the four Quantum Masks brings new gameplay features, like reversing gravity, slowing time, transforming Crash into a whirlwind for better movement, or phasing platforms in and out of reality.

    Lost in Random: The Eternal Die is a unique and dark roguelike spin-off of the 2021 game Lost in Random. In this installment, players take on the role of Queen Aleksandra instead of the original protagonist, Even. Set within the Eternal Die, a large mystical cube, the game guides players through bizarre, twisted environments. The art style combines magical allure with eerie, haunting designs.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    Players can look forward to isometric hack-and-slash gameplay with a roguelite structure. Combat occurs in randomly generated areas, where you can collect relics, activate card effects, and utilize the talking cube named “Fortune” for strategic benefits. There are four upgradable weapons, over 15 abilities, and various permanent upgrades to enhance gameplay depth. Between runs, players can improve their gear, complete side quests, and customize their builds.

    FBC: Firebreak is a cooperative first-person shooter that exists in the Control universe. Players become agents of the Federal Bureau of Control, fighting against the Hiss invasion using supernatural powers. As part of the specialized Firebreak Special Forces, teams of up to three are sent into the mysterious Oldest House to face and contain otherworldly dangers.

    Mission Dynamics

    Before each mission, teams choose their difficulty and equipment before entering randomly generated sectors. The main goal is to defeat Hiss enemies with weapons and gadgets, while also repairing equipment and securing important areas. As you progress, you unlock new gear and abilities through a requisition system, eliminating the need for a battle pass or live service.

    In summary, this week’s lineup for Game Pass offers a mix of excitement and nostalgia for players.

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  • Top Play Anywhere Xbox Games Only Available Digitally Before Launch

    Top Play Anywhere Xbox Games Only Available Digitally Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft showcased new Xbox titles like The Outer Worlds 2 and Ninja Gaiden 4, but may not offer disc versions for these games.
    2. Xbox players are facing limited options for physical copies, while PS5 players can still pre-order disc versions.
    3. The Xbox Play Anywhere initiative allows players to switch between platforms but relies on digital licenses, excluding physical copies.
    4. Microsoft is focusing on PC and mobile gaming as Xbox Series X sales lag, indicating a shift towards digital formats.
    5. Industry trends may also affect PlayStation and Nintendo gamers, with some PS5 titles requiring significant downloads and Nintendo promoting digital alternatives.

    On June 8th, Microsoft showcased exciting new Xbox titles, including The Outer Worlds 2 and Ninja Gaiden 4. However, many gamers are feeling let down as they discover that disc versions of these games may not be available. Social media user Wario64 pointed out that certain retailers are not offering physical copies. Meanwhile, PS5 players still have the option to pre-order discs with retail packaging. As Microsoft introduces its Play Anywhere initiative to a new Xbox console, the gaming world is swiftly moving towards digital-only formats.

    Limited Options for Xbox Owners

    When Gears of War: Reloaded was revealed in May, signals started to appear suggesting limited choices for Xbox players. A Spanish retailer mentioned that only gamers on PS5 and PC would be able to buy physical discs. Now, U.S. retailers are also joining in this trend by not providing physical versions of the game. This trend extends to many titles featured in Microsoft’s June 8th event, including several Xbox Play Anywhere and Game Pass games.

    The Xbox Play Anywhere Experience

    Xbox Play Anywhere games are designed to work across Xbox consoles, PCs, and other compatible devices. Players can transfer their progress and achievements from one platform to another. However, this requires digital licenses, which means physical copies are excluded. This feature is particularly important for the new Xbox console options that were announced by Microsoft. Users of the ROG Xbox Ally, which runs on Windows OS, can effortlessly switch between desktops, laptops, and handheld devices.

    As sales of the Xbox Series X console lag, Microsoft is redirecting its attention towards PC and mobile gaming. Many personal computers do not come with optical drives and have adapted to a fully digital environment. It’s also improbable that any handheld device running Windows will support cartridge formats like the Switch 2. Nevertheless, reports indicate that Microsoft is working on additional console options. Still, it wouldn’t be surprising if a successor to the Series X launched with only digital game capabilities.

    Trends Affecting PlayStation and Nintendo Gamers

    PlayStation and Nintendo players may not be immune to these industry shifts for much longer. Some PS5 titles, such as Doom: The Dark Ages, include limited data on the disc and require significant downloads for installation. At the same time, Nintendo is pushing both publishers and gamers to consider eShop listings or Game-key Cards instead of physical media.

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  • Xbox Game Pass Adds 5 New Titles, Including AAA Day-One Releases

    Xbox Game Pass Adds 5 New Titles, Including AAA Day-One Releases

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft added five new games to Game Pass, including two new releases: Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine Remaster and The Alters.
    2. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine Remaster features improved graphics and includes all 13 DLCs, offering intense third-person combat.
    3. Barbie Project Friendship is a family-friendly adventure game that allows players to restore a community center through quests and mini-games.
    4. Kingdom: Two Crowns is a strategic side-scroller where players build and protect a kingdom from nighttime enemies while gathering resources during the day.
    5. EA Sports FC 25, the latest soccer simulation game, offers a Supercharge Pack for subscribers and is available on Game Pass starting June 12.

    In the early days of June, Game Pass users had to make do with only two new games. But then, unexpectedly, the first two installments of a classic RPG were added, increasing the total to four titles. This week, Microsoft is raising the stakes with five additional games being added to the subscription service. Among these are two fresh releases: Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine and The Alters.

    Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine Remaster

    Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine makes its comeback as a remastered version of the 2011 classic, delivering improved graphics and modern technology to the battlefields of the Imperium. This major title enhances the Xbox Game Pass collection. Players will once again don the armor of Captain Titus, fighting against orks and Chaos demons on a devastated Forge World. This third-person action shooter is famous for its fierce combat, mixing intense hand-to-hand fighting with precise shooting without a cover system. Game Pass subscribers can access the Master Crafted Edition, which comes with all 13 DLCs that introduce new weapons, cooperative and multiplayer modes, along with a variety of cosmetic skins.

    A Fun Adventure for Younger Gamers

    The second week of June also offers something for younger audiences – or loyal Barbie enthusiasts – as Barbie Project Friendship arrives on Game Pass. This delightful adventure follows Barbie and her friend Barbie (often called Malibu and Brooklyn) as they return to Malibu to help restore the dilapidated Malibu Waves Community Center.

    Players can navigate through six colorful locations, such as the animal care center, skate park, and tech lab, completing simple quests, engaging in mini-games and solving puzzles. By gathering community points, they can unlock outfits and decorations to spruce up the center. Featuring local co-op and full voice acting, this game stands out as a great choice for families and younger players.

    A Strategic Challenge Awaits

    Kingdom: Two Crowns is a strategic side-scroller that puts players in the role of a monarch on horseback, tasked with building and expanding a kingdom across various islands while protecting it from a dark force known as the Greed. These enemies rise from portals at night, so players must utilize the daytime to collect coins, gather followers, and build defenses. The game combines simple visuals with intricate strategy, offering new mounts, technologies, and upgrades as players progress. It can be played solo or cooperatively, either locally or online.

    Exciting New Features in EA Sports FC 25

    EA Sports FC 25 – previously recognized as FIFA – is the well-loved soccer simulation game by Electronic Arts. Players can create their ideal teams, compete both online and offline, and manage careers across different modes. Starting June 12, this game will be accessible via EA Play as part of Game Pass for PC, Ultimate, and Xbox Cloud Gaming – without any extra cost.

    As an extra perk, subscribers will receive a Supercharge Pack until July 12, which includes 11 rare gold players rated 82 or higher, with one player having an overall rating of at least 87 and a TOTS loan player rated 93 or more. This provides players with a strong foundation in Ultimate Team mode, where they create their dream team from player cards and take on various challenges.

    Uncover the Mysteries of The Alters

    The Alters is a new sci-fi survival game from 11 bit studios, the creators of This War of Mine and Frostpunk. It launches directly into Game Pass, following Jan Dolski, a technician stranded on a hostile world after a crash. To survive, he uses a mysterious material called Rapidium to generate alternate versions of himself – known as “Alters” – each representing different life paths and possessing unique skills and personalities.

    Staying faithful to its survival roots, The Alters emphasizes base building, resource management, and morally complex decisions. Gameplay alternates between two perspectives: controlling Jan Dolski in third-person while managing the base in a 2.5D side view, similar to This War of Mine or Fallout Shelter. The Alters help in operating the mobile base, but their presence also raises emotional dilemmas. Your choices will determine the story’s trajectory and influence relationships among the different versions of Jan.

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  • Two New Xbox Game Pass Titles Launching in Early June

    Two New Xbox Game Pass Titles Launching in Early June

    Key Takeaways

    1. Crypt Custodian Overview: A 2D Metroidvania game featuring Pluto, a cat janitor in the afterlife, who battles monsters while cleaning a cursed tomb.

    2. Gameplay Mechanics: Players unlock skills like magical broom attacks and special tools, navigating through crypts while facing quirky characters and completing side quests.

    3. Symphonia Introduction: A musical platformer where players control a violinist in a deserted concert hall, aiming to restore music to a silent world.

    4. Unique Gameplay Elements: The violinist uses his instrument for navigation, with gameplay focusing on timing and flow, supported by hand-drawn graphics and atmospheric music.

    5. Overall Game Pass Additions: Game Pass subscribers can look forward to creative adventures in June with Crypt Custodian and Symphonia, despite a smaller lineup of indie games.

    The last week of May was really busy for Game Pass, bringing two new games along with two big-name titles. Given that, subscribers might not mind that “only” two indie games are coming in the first week of June. Let’s take a look at what Crypt Custodian and Symphonia have in store.

    An Adventurous Journey

    Crypt Custodian is a 2D Metroidvania game where players step into the shoes of Pluto, a cute but naughty cat who finds herself in the afterlife after a sudden end. Her fun in heaven leads to her being kicked out by the creator, who gives her a new job: the janitor of a cursed tomb. What’s her goal? To clean up, battle monsters, and maybe cause enough chaos to change her fate.

    The game offers a cheeky cleaning experience combined with intense real-time combat. As you navigate through twisting crypt passages, you’ll face off against ghosts and slimy creatures while unlocking new skills – from magical broom attacks to double jumps, dashes, and special cleaning tools. Throughout your journey, you’ll encounter quirky afterlife characters, complete side quests, and gather clues about Pluto’s backstory, all presented in a delightful cartoon art style.

    A Musical Adventure Awaits

    Symphonia is a unique musical platformer that puts you in the role of a mysterious violinist who awakens in a deserted concert hall. Your goal is to bring music back to a world that has fallen silent. The game unfolds a poetic tale without dialogue, relying instead on sound, harmony, and fluid movement to convey its message.

    In Symphonia, the violinist doesn’t simply play music – he also uses his instrument to navigate. With elegant jumps, double hops, and a violin bow that functions like a grappling hook, he moves smoothly through levels filled with platforms, mechanisms, and musical devices. Although the gameplay isn’t directly tied to rhythm, progressing effectively still needs a good sense of timing and flow. The hand-drawn graphics capture the charm of animated shorts, and when combined with the gentle rhythm and atmospheric music, the game creates a nearly meditative experience.

    Final Thoughts

    So, for Game Pass subscribers, there’s a lot to look forward to in June, even if the indie game lineup is smaller. With Crypt Custodian and Symphonia, players can expect unique experiences that blend adventure with creativity. Don’t miss these exciting additions!

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  • Seagate Debuts 4TB Xbox Storage Expansion Card at High Price

    Seagate Debuts 4TB Xbox Storage Expansion Card at High Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Series X and Series S users face storage challenges, with only Seagate and Western Digital NVMe SSDs approved for expansion.
    2. A new 4TB Seagate NVMe SSD is available, but its price of $429.99 is considered steep by many gamers.
    3. Current-gen games must be launched from Xbox expansion cards, though external USB drives can be used for storage.
    4. Microsoft’s shift towards digital gaming and services like Game Pass leads to increased demand for storage, prompting the release of a 2TB console variant.
    5. The proprietary storage technology used by Microsoft results in higher prices compared to similar drives for the PS5.

    Xbox console sales might be facing challenges, but storage is still a big issue for Series X and Series S users. A new 4TB Seagate NVMe SSD has appeared on Best Buy’s website. Although players can save games on external USB drives, current-gen games can only launch from Xbox storage expansion cards. This ease of use, however, comes with a steep price. Even with a reduced price of $429.99, the latest Seagate option is quite shocking for many.

    Storage Options

    The only approved Xbox storage card options are NVMe SSDs from Seagate and Western Digital. These accessories fit into the expansion slot on Xbox Series X and Series S consoles. After installation, games load almost as quickly as they do from the internal storage. Up until now, the largest SSD that Microsoft accepted was 2TB.

    Digital Gaming Trends

    With Game Pass being a major selling point for Xbox consoles, big titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 can quickly fill up available storage. Microsoft has also shifted towards digital gaming, leading to less reliance on physical media. To meet this demand, the company launched the 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition Series X in 2024. However, this still might not be enough for the most dedicated gamers.

    Pricing Concerns

    Those looking at Microsoft’s gaming systems are already spending quite a bit. Due to tariffs, the company increased the prices of its consoles and accessories in early May. The $499.99 MSRP of the 4TB Seagate Xbox storage expansion card only adds to the financial strain.

    The cost of the new Seagate SSD is particularly annoying when you consider that similar drives for the PS5 are much cheaper. Microsoft chose to use proprietary technology for its storage instead of standard NVMe M.2 SSD drives. While the installation is more straightforward, this decision results in higher prices for consumers.

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    Seagate Debuts 4TB Xbox Storage Expansion Card at High PriceSeagate Debuts 4TB Xbox Storage Expansion Card at High Price
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