Tag: Xbox

  • 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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  • Subnautica 2: Solo Play Details and Co-Op Features Revealed

    Subnautica 2: Solo Play Details and Co-Op Features Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Subnautica 2 will be primarily a single-player experience with co-op options for up to three friends.
    2. The game is set in a completely new world, offering fresh mysteries, creatures, and experiences.
    3. Players will have access to new and enhanced vehicles, but classic vehicles like the Cyclops and Seamoth will not return.
    4. Character customization will be available, with full options arriving after launch, while base building will feature expanded customization.
    5. The game will maintain the atmosphere of the original, including a silent protagonist to evoke a sense of wonder.


    Subnautica 2, the eagerly awaited follow-up to the popular survival game Subnautica, is gearing up for early access on PC and Xbox in 2025. Although the exact release date for early access hasn’t been confirmed yet, a recent Q&A session with Donya, the community manager, and Scott, known as Obraxis, the Creative Producer, provided insights into the setting, gameplay, and more.

    Concerns About Multiplayer

    Many fans of Subnautica were worried that the sequel might not capture the same feeling of fear and isolation as the first game, especially since Subnautica 2 will include multiplayer. However, Donya reassured fans that the game is designed primarily as a single-player experience, with co-op options available.

    “Subnautica 2 is made as a single-player experience, but you can also play it in co-op with up to three friends. So total, there can be four players including you,” the community manager noted. “You can still enjoy Subnautica 2 on your own,” she added, providing further reassurance to solo players.

    Gameplay Insights

    The Waterside Q&A video also revealed additional details about the game’s world, map, and gameplay features. A common question was if Subnautica 2 would take place on planet 4546B like the previous titles. “Subnautica 2 is actually set in a completely new world filled with fresh mysteries, creatures, and experiences,” Donya stated.

    Scott, discussing gameplay, indicated that the sequel will feature a larger map than both the original and Below Zero during early access. “We’re not quite sure yet just how big and how deep you can explore during Early Access,” the Creative Producer said.

    Transportation and Customization

    Regarding transportation, classic vehicles like the Cyclops and Seamoth will not return in Subnautica 2. Instead, players will have access to new and enhanced vehicles. “Although a large sub won’t be available right at the start of Early Access, rest assured that the team is diligently working on one,” Donya promised.

    Players will enjoy a more personalized experience as they can fully customize their characters within the game, a feature that was missing from the original. However, at launch, players will only have a few prebuilt character options, with full customization arriving at a later date.

    Base Building and Aesthetic

    The sequel is also set to expand customization options for base building. “You’ll be able to construct bases in shapes and styles that you’ve always envisioned while maintaining the beautiful Subnautica look,” Scott explained.

    While the sequel promises a more extensive map, novel settings, and upgraded vehicles, it will still include key elements like the silent protagonist. “We’re going back to having a silent protagonist in Subnautica 2,” Scott mentioned. Additionally, Subnautica 2 aims to deliver an “atmosphere that evokes the same sense of wonder as diving in for the first time.”

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  • PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch 2 Shine at Summer Game Fest 2025

    PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch 2 Shine at Summer Game Fest 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Summer Game Fest 2025 will feature over 60 partners, a record number for the event.
    2. Nintendo is returning after a two-year absence, with potential content for the Nintendo Switch 2 expected.
    3. The Live Kickoff show is scheduled for June 6 at 5 pm ET, lasting two hours at the YouTube Theater in Hollywood.
    4. The event promises “amazing new video game announcements, surprises, and reveals.”
    5. The exclusive Play Days media event will take place from June 7–9 in Downtown Los Angeles for press and influencers.


    Summer Game Fest 2025 has announced its first group of partners, with over 60 companies set to join the Los Angeles showcase next month. A highlight of this year is Nintendo’s return after not participating for two years. Additionally, PlayStation and Xbox are back as key players, and this year’s event will even feature the Nintendo Switch 2 along with several major publishers and developers.

    Nintendo’s Comeback

    Nintendo’s involvement marks a shift from its choice to miss the 2023 and 2024 events in favor of its own Direct presentations. While being listed as a partner doesn’t assure a full Nintendo Direct during the Summer Game Fest timeframe, fans can look forward to some sort of Switch 2 content, such as a trailer or a release announcement.

    Live Kickoff Show Details

    The Live Kickoff show for this year is set to last two hours and will take place at the YouTube Theater in Hollywood on Friday, June 6 at 5 pm ET. The official announcement promised “amazing new video game announcements, surprises, and reveals.” Right after, the exclusive Play Days media event is happening from June 7–9 in Downtown Los Angeles, organized by iam8bit, providing press and influencers with hands-on previews.

    Record-Breaking Partner Count

    The number of partners this year sets a new record for Summer Game Fest, referring to it as “a global celebration of video games.” Below is the complete list of partners –

    With such an impressive lineup, expectations are high for major announcements and first glimpses at future titles. As the countdown to June 6 continues, both in-person attendees and online viewers will be eager to discover the surprises that await at Summer Game Fest 2025.

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  • Get Metro 2033 Redux Free for Xbox for a Limited Time

    Get Metro 2033 Redux Free for Xbox for a Limited Time

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox players can grab Metro 2033 Redux for free until May 27, celebrating the series’ 15th anniversary.
    2. The game features improved graphics, updated gameplay, and better AI compared to the original.
    3. Once claimed, the game remains in players’ libraries permanently with no hidden conditions.
    4. This offer is exclusive to Xbox users; PC and PlayStation players had their chance to play for free in April.
    5. 4A Games is currently developing the next Metro installment, which promises a darker storyline with political themes.


    Xbox players have a unique opportunity to grab Metro 2033 Redux for free, thanks to 4A Games. This giveaway celebrates the 15th anniversary of the original Metro series.

    Details of the Game

    Metro 2033 Redux was initially launched in 2014 as a definitive edition, featuring improved graphics, updated gameplay systems, and better AI. From now until May 27, Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S users can obtain Metro 2033 Redux at no cost. Once players get their hands on it, the game will stay in their libraries forever, with no hidden conditions.

    Promotion Status

    This new offer seems to be running smoothly, contrasting with a previous April promotion that was unexpectedly taken down because of a glitch in the store. Players don’t have to download the game, which is about 30 GB, right away; they can claim it from the Microsoft Store and choose to install it later at their convenience.

    For those unfamiliar, Metro 2033 Redux puts you in the shoes of Artyom, a solitary survivor navigating the radioactive tunnels and barren surface of post-apocalyptic Moscow. The Redux version intensifies the series’ well-known atmosphere with dynamic lighting, enhanced textures, and smoother gameplay, making it an ideal entry point into the trilogy.

    Exclusivity of the Offer

    This promotion is exclusively for Xbox users. Players on PC and PlayStation won’t see this free offer, as they already had their chance to play for free in April. On other platforms, the game can be bought.

    Moreover, 4A Games recently revealed that they are working on the next Metro installment, which looks to be darker with a story that carries more political weight.

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  • No Sony PlayStation Event: First-Party PS5 Games Missing

    No Sony PlayStation Event: First-Party PS5 Games Missing

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lack of Upcoming Events: No immediate plans for a PlayStation Showcase or State of Play, with September being a more likely time for updates.

    2. Recent Showcase History: Sony hasn’t held a PlayStation Showcase since early 2023; the last State of Play was in February 2025.

    3. Shortage of PS5 Games: The absence of major events is attributed to a lack of first-party PS5 games, with most upcoming titles being from third-party developers.

    4. Future Releases and Competition: While PlayStation fans have some games to look forward to, Xbox’s cross-platform strategy has contributed to their hardware sales decline.

    5. Upcoming Gaming Events: June will feature multiple gaming events, including the Xbox Games Showcase and Summer Game Fest, raising questions about Sony’s strategy in the competitive landscape.


    PlayStation fans find themselves in a strange situation, as there are not many first-party PS5 games to look forward to. Meanwhile, Xbox hardware sales have dropped, making the PS5 the leading console in the market. It seems that Sony won’t be bringing any surprises to gamers anytime soon. Reports from various sources indicate that there are no immediate plans for a PlayStation Showcase or State of Play event.

    Lack of Upcoming Events

    A well-known figure on the ResetEra forums, NateTheHate, shared that he hasn’t heard anything about a PlayStation event in May or any upcoming announcements. Similarly, leaker John Harker confirmed he couldn’t verify any presentations happening in the next few months. September appears to be a more promising timeframe for official updates.

    Recent Showcase History

    Since 2023, Sony hasn’t organized a PlayStation Showcase, which was when they revealed games like Helldivers 2 and Marathon. Aside from the Borderlands 4 April stream, the last State of Play occurred in February 2025, which used to be more regular. The main reason for the lack of a big event is said to be due to the shortage of PS5 games. Highly anticipated titles like Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and Ghost of Yotei are expected to release in the summer and fall. Most of the other upcoming games will be from third-party developers.

    Future Releases and Competition

    PlayStation gamers shouldn’t have too much trouble finding new games. Interestingly, Microsoft has started to lead in PS5 sales due to their cross-platform strategies. The Xbox Games Showcase on June 8th is expected to reveal many future releases from Microsoft and its associated studios. June will be a packed month for gaming events, highlighted by the Summer Game Fest on June 6th.

    Sony might want to steer clear of the excitement surrounding the Switch 2’s release on June 5th and the summer gaming showcases. Furthermore, they often don’t give much notice before a PlayStation Showcase or State of Play occurs. Still, many fans are left questioning the fate of exclusive PS5 titles.

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  • April Xbox Sales Increased as PS5 and Switch Sales Declined

    April Xbox Sales Increased as PS5 and Switch Sales Declined

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox console sales increased compared to last year, indicating a shift in consumer preferences.
    2. The surge in Xbox sales occurred just before Microsoft announced significant price hikes for consoles.
    3. Overall U.S. gaming sector spending declined by 3% in April, with a notable 8% decrease compared to the same time in 2024.
    4. PS5 sales fell by 5%, while Nintendo Switch hardware and accessories dropped by 37%.
    5. Xbox titles are performing well, with games like Oblivion Remastered leading sales charts alongside PS5 titles.


    Circana’s April sales numbers for gaming hardware, accessories, and games in the U.S. has been released. A notable finding is the increase in Xbox console sales compared to the same time last year, marking a shift in trends. The reporting ended on May 3rd, covering the initial days after Microsoft announced price increases for their consoles. On the other hand, sales of PS5 and Switch hardware continued to decline. In contrast, Xbox games were at the forefront of cross-platform sales.

    Surprising Sales Trends

    It might seem strange that more people are buying Xbox consoles. However, most of the reporting period ended before May 1st, when Microsoft disclosed that the Xbox Series X and Series S would see price hikes ranging from $80 to $130. Mat Piscatella pointed out a noticeable increase in console sales during the last week of the reporting period. This surge could suggest that consumers hurried to purchase available stock before prices were changed by retailers. The analyst believes the May data would give a clearer picture of how the new pricing affected sales.

    Industry Spending Declines

    In April, U.S. spending in the gaming sector dropped by 3%. Overall, the revenue for 2025 is 8% lower than what was seen in 2024 at the same time. Sales for the PS5 decreased by 5%, which is significantly better than the 26% drop noted in March 2025. There might be concerns among gamers about a potential price increase for PlayStation consoles due to tariffs. Similarly, the Nintendo Switch and its accessories faced a steep decline of 37%. Many gamers might have directed their money towards pre-orders for the Switch 2, set to launch on June 5th.

    Continued Success for Xbox Titles

    Microsoft’s cross-platform publishing strategies are yielding positive results. Xbox titles such as The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, Forza Horizon 5, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle are leading the sales charts that also feature PS5 games. Notably, Oblivion Remastered outperformed the original’s sales in its first 15 months during April.

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  • Xbox Games Rumored to Play on Windows PCs with Official Emulator

    Xbox Games Rumored to Play on Windows PCs with Official Emulator

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox games may soon be playable on Windows PCs through emulation, according to rumors linked to an upcoming Xbox showcase.
    2. Microsoft is reportedly developing an Xbox emulator that could allow a wider range of Xbox games, including those not currently available on PC, to be played on Windows.
    3. This emulator initiative is seen as crucial for game preservation, enabling players to enjoy older titles without complex modifications.
    4. The concept of “Xbox Everywhere” is highlighted, suggesting a broader strategy for Xbox gaming across different platforms.
    5. The Xbox app on Windows 11 has improved, potentially benefiting upcoming handheld devices, with discussions of a “Big Picture Mode” feature similar to Steam’s.


    In a new YouTube video shared by eXtas1s, there’s a suggestion that Xbox games may soon be available to play on Windows PCs through emulation. While much of this is still uncertain and largely speculative, it aligns with earlier comments from Xbox staff like Sarah Bond, who indicated their interest in initiating a program for game preservation and archiving.

    Rumors and Speculation

    The rumors have surfaced just ahead of the Xbox showcase scheduled for June 8th and stem from Microsoft’s continuous work on backward compatibility and game archiving. Sources suggest that Microsoft is developing an Xbox emulator for Windows that would enable players to enjoy titles from earlier Xbox consoles on PCs using x64 emulation. This initiative could expand beyond the current backward compatibility program, allowing a wider array of Xbox games to be playable on PCs. It might even include games that haven’t been officially made available for PC or those that are not part of the current list of backward-compatible titles.

    The Importance of Game Preservation

    Creating such an emulator could be crucial for preserving the vast library of Xbox games, enabling users to keep enjoying their purchased titles on modern systems without the need for complex file adjustments or third-party modifications. Additionally, this would represent a significant move toward the concept of “Xbox Everywhere.” For those who prefer gaming on an Xbox console, the Series X is still available for purchase on Amazon.

    Improvements to Xbox App

    JezCorden has mentioned on BlueSky that the Xbox app on Windows 11 has recently improved in both appearance and performance, which could be advantageous for upcoming handheld devices like the Asus ROG Ally 2. Xbox CEO Phil Spencer was among the first to share this opinion, which might be seen as a form of endorsement. eXtas1s also suggested that the app could introduce a feature called “Big Picture Mode,” similar to what Steam offers. This would be beneficial for handheld devices and simplify access to the Xbox game library on other Windows platforms.

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  • Microsoft Tests Steam Integration in Its Store, Leak Suggests

    Microsoft Tests Steam Integration in Its Store, Leak Suggests

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is testing the integration of Steam into the Microsoft Store, aiming to bridge the gap between Xbox and Steam.
    2. This integration may allow for syncing libraries, shared achievements, and improved cross-platform multiplayer, but does not mean a full Steam client on Xbox.
    3. Concerns arise that this could deter third-party developers from using the Xbox Store.
    4. The move may reflect Microsoft’s strategy for a more open gaming ecosystem, possibly linked to a new Xbox handheld device.
    5. If successful, this integration could challenge Sony and Nintendo’s exclusivity, leading to potential demands for access to games across platforms.


    The long-standing divide between Microsoft’s Xbox ecosystem and Valve’s Steam store may be on the verge of disappearing. A recent leak from gaming insider @eXtas1stv suggests that internal trials are currently taking place to integrate Steam into the Microsoft Store. Reactions have varied from confusion to a cautious sense of hope, alongside some wild theories about what this could mean for the future of platform exclusivity.

    Clarifying the Situation

    To clear things up, this doesn’t imply that you will simply start your Xbox and access the Steam client directly. Most analyses indicate that Steam games might be offered in the Microsoft Store through backend connections, not by fully integrating the client. This could lead to numerous opportunities, like syncing libraries, shared achievements, and potentially more seamless cross-platform multiplayer. However, it also brings up several concerns.

    Potential Impacts on Developers

    Some users on Reddit have noted that this might push third-party developers away from the Xbox Store entirely. Others speculate that this could be part of a bigger strategy: Microsoft’s aim for a more open and platform-independent future, especially with the buzz around a possible upcoming Xbox handheld device.

    The Bigger Picture

    But let’s not forget about the big question: if Xbox embraces Steam, how can Sony or Nintendo prevent access to games purchased on their systems? Just as Nvidia had to comply when Sony requested them to block GeForce Now for PlayStation titles, Valve might face similar demands. Should this leak prove accurate, we can expect official confirmation in the near future.

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  • Doubts About New Xbox Console Being Arm-Based Due to Backward Compatibility

    Doubts About New Xbox Console Being Arm-Based Due to Backward Compatibility

    Key Takeaways

    1. A recent job listing suggests a possible shift to Arm-based Snapdragon processors for a new Xbox console, moving away from the current AMD x86 architecture.
    2. Jez Corden from Windows Central doubts this shift due to backward compatibility concerns, stating that new Xbox systems could launch as early as 2027.
    3. The Qualcomm job ad indicates a focus on supporting next-generation Surface and Xbox products, but Corden claims the next Xbox will likely use familiar hardware instead of Qualcomm chips.
    4. An Xbox handheld using Arm technology could be more power-efficient than AMD x86 options, but Microsoft prioritizes backward compatibility and game preservation.
    5. Microsoft is focusing on enhancing its Windows user interface for gamers while continuing hardware development, despite the uncertainty surrounding the next Xbox console.


    A recent job listing hints that a new Xbox console might use an Arm-based Snapdragon processor. This would mark a significant change from the AMD x86 architecture that current Microsoft consoles depend on. Nevertheless, Jez Corden from Windows Central thinks that backward compatibility concerns make this concept somewhat unlikely. Previously, Corden mentioned that new Xbox systems could be launched as early as 2027.

    Job Posting Insights

    The Qualcomm job advertisement, found by Brad Sams, is for a Sales Director position in Redmond, Washington, which is home to Microsoft. One responsibility of the role includes “supporting the sell-in activities for the next generation of Surface and Xbox products built on Snapdragon solutions.” The selected candidate would also “assist in defining the next generation Surface and Xbox portfolios.”

    Hardware Expectations

    Despite what the job ad suggests, Jez Corden is quite sure that the next Xbox console will use hardware that gamers are already familiar with. He has confirmed with a source that the consoles “are not based on Qualcomm chips.” Corden feels that replicating Xbox games made for the x86 architecture would be too complicated. However, the individual in the Qualcomm position could enhance gaming experiences on the 12-inch Surface Pro, which operates on an Arm-based chip. Many similar Microsoft devices have trouble playing or even allowing the installation of Xbox games.

    Efficiency and Future Plans

    An Xbox handheld utilizing Arm technology would be more power-efficient. It would outperform AMD x86 options like the Asus ROG Ally in terms of energy consumption. However, Microsoft prioritizes backward compatibility and game preservation. In fact, the rumored Project Kennan is said to be a partnership with Asus, likely resembling the ROG Ally. Rather than altering hardware, Microsoft seems to be concentrating on making its Windows user interface more friendly for gamers.

    Although many aspects of the upcoming Xbox consoles remain unclear, even with the removal of Snapdragon support, it’s evident that Microsoft is still committed to hardware development while releasing titles on various platforms.

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  • Microsoft Job Posting Signals Game Emulation on New Xbox Console

    Microsoft Job Posting Signals Game Emulation on New Xbox Console

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is working on a new Xbox console that may run on the Windows operating system, focusing on game preservation.
    2. A job listing for a Principal Software Engineer highlights the need for developing scalable emulation solutions for legacy games.
    3. Microsoft has begun releasing past exclusive games on other platforms like the PS5 and may do so for the upcoming Switch 2.
    4. Xbox games are becoming more accessible on modern Windows PCs, but some titles remain exclusive to older consoles.
    5. AI may be used to improve backward compatibility, emphasizing the importance of preserving older Xbox games.


    Microsoft is keen on making sure that its vast collection of Xbox games can still be enjoyed in the years to come. There are talks that the company is working on a new Xbox console that would operate on the Windows operating system. However, Microsoft might encounter challenges in bringing older classics to its new hardware and possibly to other systems. Recently, a job listing was made public for a Principal Software Engineer, aimed at enhancing the game preservation team.

    Some Key Responsibilities

    The role involves creating “scalable emulation solutions” and “emulating legacy games on modern platforms.” The engineer would also be tasked with ensuring game assets are protected from piracy, theft, and other forms of tampering. Sadly, the job posting does not specify which existing or future consoles or platforms these emulated games might be available on.

    Expanding Game Availability

    Microsoft has already started releasing previous exclusives on the PS5, and there are signs that it might extend this to the upcoming Switch 2. Even though sales of the Series X have been on the decline, Microsoft has not given up on its plans to launch a new Xbox console. Project Kennan is a rumored device made by Asus that could include Xbox controls. This handheld device is expected to be based on Windows and will likely offer a full-screen Xbox user interface.

    The Future of Xbox Gaming

    Modern Windows PCs can access a lot of the Xbox games that are available on the Series X, Series S, and now the PS5. However, certain games are still locked to Microsoft’s current and older consoles. Jez Corden from Windows Central reports that Xbox systems will adjust to utilize the Win32 API. The Series X currently supports a development environment that is somewhat similar, but some games coded for Xbox ERA are still restricted.

    The Principal Software Engineer might direct their focus toward older Xbox titles that require more effort to emulate. Phil Spencer has also mentioned that AI could play a role in enhancing backward compatibility. In any case, preserving games will be essential for Microsoft’s Play Anywhere initiative.

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