Tag: S

  • Microsoft May Drop Exclusives as Xbox Supports Windows and Game Stores

    Microsoft May Drop Exclusives as Xbox Supports Windows and Game Stores

    Spec sheets aside, the availability of a good number of exclusive games is key in shaping the success of a console generation.

    Even with major acquisitions like ZeniMax Media and Activision Blizzard King (ABK), Microsoft’s Xbox Series X|S hasn’t really outperformed the PlayStation 5 when it comes to exclusive titles. However, both Sony and Microsoft believe that games shouldn’t be limited to their own platforms. Microsoft has started to release several first-party games for the PlayStation, and similarly, Sony has been transferring many of its exclusive games to PC, such as Bloodborne (let’s not forget that).

    A Shift in Strategy

    In the upcoming months and years, Xbox might adopt a completely new approach, possibly positioning the console as less of a focus. According to market research firm DFC Intelligence, the gaming industry could see significant growth in 2025, spurred by the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 and GTA 6. However, the market might only support one major non-Nintendo console. “There isn’t room for more than two major console systems,” the firm notes. They believe Microsoft has better prospects in software, while Sony can continue to thrive with the PlayStation and its exclusive titles.

    Microsoft appears to be integrating Windows and Xbox more closely than ever. We’ve been hearing about this for a while. The introduction of the UWP framework on Windows 10 aimed to create a unified codebase that would work across console, PC, mobile, and mixed reality.

    Future of Xbox

    Recent news hints that Xbox vNext might essentially be running a form of Windows. This change would enable gamers to access alternative stores such as Epic, GOG, and even Steam, which has been a vision of Xbox chief Phil Spencer for a significant time. Jason Ronald, newly appointed as VP of Next Gen Xbox, along with Roanne Sones from Windows OEM, joining the Xbox leadership team suggests what Windows Central’s Jez Corden calls the “Windowsification of Xbox.”

    Interestingly, Ronald is set to appear at the CES 2025 launch for a Lenovo Legion handheld that will run Valve’s Steam OS. This strategy may be a smart move considering the stagnation in console hardware sales. Additionally, Microsoft might consider allowing this new Xbox-Windows OS platform for handheld device makers, who currently have no choice but to utilize the full version of Windows 11.

    Changing Exclusivity

    This essentially means more Xbox experiences on non-Xbox devices. However, this hinges on Microsoft creating a version of Windows without older legacy issues and ensuring that Xbox backward compatibility functions correctly on Windows. This shift implies that Xbox will stop pursuing exclusives, allowing all first-party games to eventually reach competing platforms. Microsoft seems to be transitioning the Xbox brand into a broader gaming ecosystem rather than restricting itself to console hardware only.

    Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is shaping up to be one of Xbox’s best exclusives in recent memory, but the aforementioned changes indicate that Xbox fans may need to abandon their hopes for exclusivity. According to Corden on X, Xbox is unlikely to have exclusives moving forward, and if there are any, they will likely be timed at best. “If some games are exclusive it’s gonna be incidental at best,” he stated, emphasizing a shift towards multiplatform releases.

    Recently, Microsoft began promoting the “This is an Xbox” concept to market Game Pass. Essentially, any device that runs the Xbox app with Game Pass is considered an Xbox game streaming console. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella even mentioned that being an Xbox fan involves enjoying Xbox games on “all your devices.”

    Back in February, Microsoft announced that titles like Pentiment, Hi-Fi Rush, Sea of Thieves, and Grounded would also be accessible on the PlayStation and Nintendo Switch. Doom: The Dark Ages will also launch on PS5 alongside Xbox consoles and PC, while Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is expected to arrive on PS5 in Spring 2025.

    Even the highly awaited Fable reboot in 2025 is likely to expand to other platforms after its initial limited-time exclusivity on Xbox. Given Microsoft’s tendency to limit devices that are on the verge of greatness (remember Windows Phone?), fans may justifiably feel concerned about the potential irrelevance of the console itself.

    Nothing is finalized, and plans may shift, but it’s clear that Microsoft is adjusting its strategy in response to evolving trends in the console market in the years to come.

    Source: Link

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  • Black Myth: Wukong ESRB Rating for Xbox Indicates Launch Soon

    Black Myth: Wukong ESRB Rating for Xbox Indicates Launch Soon

    Black Myth: Wukong has bin given a rating by the ESRB for Xbox, hinting that its launch on that platform is possibly just around the corner. This action RPG, crafted by Game Science, has received a “T” for Teen rating. This is due to the presence of blood and gore, some language, partial nudity, and violence in the game. This update arrives nearly two months after it successfully made its debut on PC and PlayStation 5 in August 2024.

    Delays and Optimizations

    The release for Xbox was delayed earlier because of some technical difficulties. With the ESRB rating now in hand, it appears that the game is approaching the final optimization stages for the console.

    Gameplay and Reception

    Black Myth: Wukong draws its inspiration from Chinese mythology and the well-known tale, Journey to the West. Players take on the role of Sun Wukong, a mighty character with the ability to transform into various creatures, cast spells, and partake in melee fighting. The game has been widely acclaimed for its breathtaking visuals, deep storytelling, and an exciting combat system.

    Anticipation for Release

    With the ESRB rating secured, it is anticipated that the developers will soon reveal the official launch date for the Xbox Series X|S version. Recently, the Xbox Partner Preview took place, so we can look ahead to upcoming events for possible announcements. Who knows—perhaps the company will drop a teaser on its social media channels!

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  • Baldur’s Gate 3 Save Issues on Xbox Series X|S Finally Fixed with Latest Update

    Baldur’s Gate 3 Save Issues on Xbox Series X|S Finally Fixed with Latest Update

    Baldur’s Gate 3 Update Resolves Save Issues on Xbox Series X|S

    A recent technical hiccup on the Xbox Series X|S had caused frustration among Baldur’s Gate 3 players. Game saves were disappearing under certain conditions, leaving gamers disappointed. However, Larian Studios, the developer of the game, has swiftly released an update to address this issue. The glitch, which was reportedly on Microsoft’s end, can now be resolved by manually updating the game.

    Journey Across Gaming Platforms

    Baldur’s Gate 3 has had an eventful journey across different gaming platforms. Initially launched on PC in August, the game made its way to PlayStation in September. Surprisingly, it was released on Xbox in December during The Game Awards. Swen Vincke, the head of Larian Studios, had intended to announce the Xbox release date during his acceptance speech at the awards, but he forgot to do so.

    The release of the Xbox version was a topic of discussion, particularly due to reports of technical limitations on the Xbox Series S, which were causing delays. However, after discussions with Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer, it was decided that Baldur’s Gate 3 would debut on Xbox Series S without split-screen support. This feature might be added in the future.

    Unparalleled Freedom and Control

    Baldur’s Gate 3 has received high praise from critics, with Jake Dekker from GameSpot awarding it a perfect score in his review. Dekker highlighted the game’s exceptional freedom, offering players a vast array of choices and consequences. He also noted that Baldur’s Gate 3 allows players an unprecedented level of control over their gaming narratives.

    A Seamless Gaming Experience

    For Xbox Series X|S players, the latest update not only resolves a critical issue but also demonstrates Larian Studios’ commitment to providing a seamless gaming experience across all platforms. With the assurance of stability and continued support, gamers can now dive back into the rich, choice-driven world of Baldur’s Gate 3.

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