Tag: Xbox Series S|X

  • GTA 6 Pre-Order Date Officially Confirmed by Rockstar

    Key Takeaway

    – GTA 6 pre-orders begin June 25, with a confirmed release on November 19.
    – The game will only be available on PS5/PS5 Pro and Xbox Series S|X.
    – Pricing is still a mystery, with speculation it could be the first AAA game to cost $100.
    – A PC release is unlikely before late 2027, with no official date announced.


    GTA 6 Pre-Order News

    After what seemed like an endless wait, GTA 6 finally has an official pre-order date. Rockstar Games has confirmed it kick off on June 25 on digital storefronts and certain online retailers. And yes, it will only arrive on current-gen consoles, namely the Playstation 5/PS5 Pro and Xbox Series S|X.

    Store Listings and Console Performance

    You can wistlist GTA 6 on the PlayStation Store and Xbox Store. Whether it will be able to take advantage of the PS5 Pro’s extra graphics capabilites remain unknown, but we won’t have to wait long to find out. On the flip side, it’ll be interesting to see what sorcery Rockstar emploies to make GTA 6 on the notoriously underpowered Xbox Series S.

    The biggest mystery, however, is its price. GTA 6 is widely speculated to be one of the first AAA games to retail at $100, and unfortunately, that mystery will only be solved next week.

    Release Date and Marketing

    A June 25 pre-order date effectivley sets its November 19 release date in stone, quelling any rumours of a delay to 2027. While Rockstar didn’t reveal much in the way of new gameplay or even show off a new trailer, its official cover art is now downlodable, along with some additional media assets.

    That said, with the pre-order date confirmed, GTA 6 will likeley get a fresh round of marketing, which will very likely include more gameplay footage and additional insights into the game’s protagonists. Unfortunatley, there’s no word about its PC release date, and at this point, anything before Q3, 2027, seems like a pipe dream.

    • PlayStation 5/PS5 Pro and Xbox Series S|X versions confirmed
    • Full price expected at $100 for standard edition
    • Digital pre-orders begin June 25 on official stores
    • Game launch date is November 19
    Sources
  • Xbox Delays Fable Release Amid GTA VI and Bigger Games

    Xbox Delays Fable Release Amid GTA VI and Bigger Games

    Key Takeaway

    – Fable’s release delayed from Autumn 2026 to February 2027.
    – Reason: To avoid competition with other major 2026 titles.
    – New details will be revealed at the Xbox Games Showcase on June 7.
    – Fable is an open-world action-RPG reboot, not a direct sequel.
    – Will launch on Xbox Series S|X, PC, Steam, and PS5.


    Fable Release Date Delayed

    Xbox is working on a new Fable game that’s being developed by Playground Games. The new title was originally scheduled to be released in Autumn 2026 (between September and November), but an announcement by Xbox has revealed that will no longer be happening, and it’s been moved back abit.

    Reason for the Postponement

    According to a post on X by the official Xbox account, Fable will no longer be released in 2026. The reason provided for the postponement is beacuse of the lineup of major titles that are set to be released later this year such as Halo: Campaign Evolved, Gears of War: E-Day, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 4, Control Resonant, Star Wars: Galactic Racer, and Grand Theft Auto VI. These games where allready taking up alot of attention.

    New Launch Window Revealed

    Xbox says that it has moved the release of Fable to February 2027, so that the game “can have the dedicated moment it deserves”. The announcement also mentions that new details of the game will be revealed at the Xbox Games Showcase on June 7, so stay tuned for that event.

    What Is Fable?

    Fable is an open world action-RPG, and while it will be the fourth game in the series, it is a reboot of the franchise. The original trilogy was developed by the now-defunct British game developer, Lionhead Studios, which was closed down in April 2016. Playground Games is now handling the development of this new entry.

    Platforms and Availability

    Xbox has confirmed that Fable will be released on the Xbox Series S|X, PC, Steam, and PS5. There’s no confirmation yet that it will be released on the Nintendo Switch 2. Pricing details havent been announced yet for the game either at this time.

    Sources
  • Warhammer 40,000 Speed Freeks: Twisted Metal for PS5 and Xbox Series

    Warhammer 40,000 Speed Freeks: Twisted Metal for PS5 and Xbox Series

    Key Takeaways

    1. No New Twisted Metal Game: It’s been over twelve years since the last Twisted Metal game, and no new installment has been announced by Sony/PlayStation.

    2. New Title Announcement: Caged Element and Wired Productions are set to release a car battle game called Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks on PS5 and Xbox Series S|X.

    3. Game Features: Speed Freeks will include PvP multiplayer, a single-player mode, a multiplayer level editor, and an in-game workshop for custom maps.

    4. Previous Launch: The game was initially released for PCs in 2025 and is already available on Steam, receiving favorable reviews.

    5. Price and Release Date: The price for the PS5 version is unknown, and there is no set launch date, but it can be added to wishlists on the PS Store and Microsoft Store.


    It has been over twelve years since the last installment of the Twisted Metal video game series came out, which was for the PlayStation 3. Even with the recent debut of a TV show inspired by the game, Sony/PlayStation hasn’t given any word on a new entry in the combat racing series. However, they did roll out some new merchandise related to the game. Luckily, other game creators are stepping in to fill this void, with one particular title set to arrive on PlayStation 5 shortly.

    Upcoming Title Announcement

    Set in the vast Warhammer 40,000 universe, Caged Element along with Wired Productions have revealed that their car battle game, Speed Freeks (not to be confused with the 1999 game, Speed Freaks), will be launching on the PS5 (1TB disc version can be found on Amazon for $549.99) as well as Xbox Series S|X consoles.

    Game Features

    Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks offers both PvP multiplayer and a single-player mode where players can face off against bots. The console version will feature a multiplayer level editor, plus an in-game workshop enabling users to upload their custom maps to the cloud so that others can enjoy their creations.

    Originally launched in 2025 for PCs, this title comes from the same developers who created the racing game Grip: Combat Racing. Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks is available on Steam for $19.99, and it has been met with very favorable reviews. However, details regarding its price upon release on the PS5 remain unknown, and there’s no set launch date yet. You can, however, add it to your wishlist on both the PS Store and Microsoft Store.

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  • Microsoft Unveils Exciting New Features for Xbox Consoles and Handhelds

    Microsoft Unveils Exciting New Features for Xbox Consoles and Handhelds

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Series S|X, Xbox One X, and Xbox One S can now stream games at 1440p through Xbox Cloud Gaming, available only to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers.
    2. Microsoft has made it easier for ROG Xbox Ally users to format SD cards directly through the Xbox app during game installations.
    3. ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X devices can pre-compile shaders for games, reducing lag from shader compilation.
    4. ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X will receive ongoing CPU and GPU driver updates due to their AMD Ryzen Z2 series processors.
    5. Handhelds using the Ryzen Z1 series have lost support and will not receive future driver updates.


    Microsoft has revealed some fresh features for its handheld and tabletop consoles. To begin with, Xbox Series S|X, Xbox One X, and Xbox One S are now capable of streaming games through Xbox Cloud Gaming at a resolution of 1440p. This service, however, is limited to subscribers of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, just like on other platforms. While the idea of streaming games on a console—which is typically made for local gameplay—might seem unusual, it could be useful when storage is limited or for playing newer titles on older consoles.

    Enhanced SD Card Formatting

    In addition, Microsoft has simplified the process for ROG Xbox Ally users to format compatible SD cards for their game library. This can now be accomplished directly through the Xbox app while a game is being installed. Moreover, both ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handheld devices can pre-compile shaders for games, significantly decreasing the lag caused by shader compilation. The blog post also points to a page that supposedly lists more enhancements for first-party Xbox handhelds, but none are detailed, with the last update noted in November 2025.

    Future Driver Updates

    Thanks to their use of AMD’s Ryzen Z2 series processors, the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X will continue to receive CPU and GPU driver upgrades for the foreseeable future. Sadly, the same cannot be said for handhelds that utilize the Ryzen Z1 series, which appear to have unexpectedly lost all support.

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  • Forza Horizon 6 in Japan: PS5 Players Must Wait, Says Microsoft

    Forza Horizon 6 in Japan: PS5 Players Must Wait, Says Microsoft

    Key Takeaways

    1. Setting Announcement: Forza Horizon 6 will be set in Japan, as confirmed by Microsoft during the Tokyo Game Show 2025.
    2. Platform Availability: The game will launch in 2026 exclusively on Xbox consoles and PC, with a later release planned for PlayStation 5.
    3. Timed-Exclusive Release: Analysts suggest that the PS5 version may arrive three to twelve months after the initial Xbox and PC launch.
    4. Teaser Trailer Highlights: The teaser showcased iconic Japanese locations, including a view of Mount Fuji and elements like a garage with previous game license plates.
    5. Artistic Vision: The game’s art director emphasized the beauty of Japan’s landscapes and urban settings, promising an immersive experience for players.


    Community fans have been eagerly asking for a Forza Horizon game set in Japan, and there’s been a lot of talk about the series moving to this East Asian archipelago. Microsoft has officially announced that Forza Horizon 6 will take place in Japan, which was revealed during the Tokyo Game Show 2025. However, there’s a twist. Forza Horizon 6 will not be available on PlayStation 5 at launch, while it will be ready for PC and Xbox Series S|X.

    Staggered Launch Details

    In a recent post on Xbox Wire, a footnote indicated that Forza Horizon 6 will first be released on Xbox consoles and PC in 2026. Given the enthusiasm for this franchise across other platforms, Playground Games and Turn 10 Studios are also collaborating to release Forza Horizon 6 on PlayStation after the initial launch. In the meantime, players can add it to their wishlists on Xbox and Steam, and more updates about Forza Horizon 6 will be shared early next year.

    Currently, there is no specific date for when the PS5 version will come out. Analysts in the industry think that Xbox is taking a timed-exclusive route with Forza Horizon 6, which could mean that the game might launch on PlayStation anywhere from three to twelve months after its debut.

    Teaser Trailer Insights

    The teaser trailer for Forza Horizon 6 was unveiled during Xbox’s presentation at TGS 2025, showcasing a garage adorned with license plates from previous games. The setting shifted to Japanese hip-hop music as the camera zoomed in on a Japanese license plate, transitioning to a stunning view of Mount Fuji from the northern side of Lake Kawaguchi.

    The garage is likely situated in Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture, with the Kawaguchiko Ohashi Bridge visible in the background. However, it’s possible that some specific locations might not make it into the final version of the game, as the Horizon series is known for its fictionalized interpretations of real places.

    Artistic Vision

    Art director Don Arceta discussed the Japan-inspired world in the Xbox Wire post, saying, “Although we’re not sharing too much in terms of specifics at the moment, we’re thrilled to reveal to fans the true extent of the stunning beauty – both in nature and city settings – that Japan has to offer.”

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  • Shenmue 3 Enhanced Coming to PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Switch

    Shenmue 3 Enhanced Coming to PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Switch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shenmue 3 Enhanced will be available on Xbox Series S|X, Nintendo Switch 2, PS5, and PC, featuring improved visuals and performance.
    2. Players who own the original versions on PS4 and PC may receive an upgrade, but the cost of the upgrade is not yet confirmed.
    3. Key enhancements include improved textures, faster loading times, smoother frame rates, and 4K upgrades, along with increased NPC density in the village of Niaowu.
    4. The game will feature a “Classic Camera Mode” allowing players to switch between original and modern camera controls.
    5. Fan feedback has led to adjustments like a customizable Stamina System, options to skip cutscenes, and expanded QTE timing, with major changes being optional for players.


    The beloved action-adventure game, Shenmue 3, is getting a fresh update with the announcement of Shenmue 3 Enhanced. This version will be available on Xbox Series S|X and Nintendo Switch 2, in addition to PS5 and PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store.

    Exciting Enhancements

    Yu Suzuki, the game’s creator, along with publisher ININ Games, revealed Shenmue 3 Enhanced before Gamescom 2025 on X. The new edition promises a refined experience featuring “overhauled visuals, performance boosts, and quality-of-life updates.” This update seeks to tackle feedback from players regarding the 2019 version, all while keeping the game’s distinctive charm intact.

    Availability Details

    It remains unclear if Shenmue 3 Enhanced will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 or if it will also be available for the original Switch. Additionally, players who own the original versions on PlayStation 4 and PC will receive an upgrade to the enhanced edition. However, it’s not confirmed whether this upgrade will be free or come with a cost, with promises from ININ Games for more information later.

    Modern Features

    Shenmue 3 Enhanced is set to bring numerous upgrades to modernize the gameplay while honoring its roots. Key features include improved textures, faster loading times, and a smoother frame rate, along with a 4K texture upgrade for the environments and characters.

    The game will also implement upscaling technologies like DLSS and FSR on suitable hardware. To enhance the village of Niaowu, the game will increase the number of NPCs, making the city streets feel more alive.

    Nostalgic Camera Options

    Another exciting feature is a “Classic Camera Mode,” which draws inspiration from Shenmue 1 and 2, allowing players to switch between original D-pad movement, classic camera controls, and a more modern viewpoint.

    Addressing Fan Feedback

    Longtime fans’ critiques have been taken into account in Shenmue 3 Enhanced, with options for adjusting the Stamina System, restoring health before battles, and lowering monetary requirements for smoother story progression.

    Players can also skip cutscenes and dialogues, along with an expanded QTE timing window for improved accessibility. ININ Games has committed to UI overhauls to simplify navigation and shopping notifications. They have assured that major changes are optional, meaning enthusiasts of the Shenmue series can enjoy the original 2019 experience or choose to implement enhancements selectively during their playthrough.

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  • EA Sports NHL 26 Release Date Set for September 12 in Trailer

    EA Sports NHL 26 Release Date Set for September 12 in Trailer

    Key Takeaways

    1. Early Release Date: NHL 26 will launch on September 12, 2025, a month earlier than expected, coinciding with the NHL regular season start on October 7.

    2. Pricing and Pre-order Bonuses: The Standard Edition costs $69.99 with bonuses like 500 NHL Points, while the Deluxe Edition is priced at $99.99 (currently $89.99) and includes additional NHL Points and early access.

    3. Innovative Features: The game will feature the new ICE-Q 2.0 system for realistic gameplay, utilizing NHL EDGE data for improved puck dynamics and player movements, along with an enhanced Goalie Crease Control System.

    4. Updated Game Modes: Be A Pro mode will receive significant updates, including new storylines and cinematic cutscenes, while Hockey Ultimate Team will introduce ranked matches and an offline Hut Cup Chase Mode.

    5. Community Excitement: The announcement has generated excitement among NHL players, with the Creative Director claiming NHL 26 offers the most true-to-life gaming experience yet.


    In a clever move that syncs up with the NHL’s regular season starting October 7, EA Sports has revealed that NHL 26 will be launching a month earlier than expected. This announcement came through the game’s official reveal trailer on YouTube. NHL 26 will hit store shelves on September 12, 2025, for both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S|X.

    Release Timeline Shift

    EA has altered its usual release schedule with this early launch. The cover art for the new Deluxe Edition showcases the Tkachuk family, featuring Matthew, Brady, and their father, Keith. Additionally, players will have access to a 10-hour trial for EA Play and Game Pass Ultimate subscribers.

    Pricing and Pre-order Bonuses

    The Standard Edition of EA Sports NHL 26 is set at $69.99 and includes pre-order bonuses like 500 NHL Points, two World of Chel Battle Pass XP Boosts, a 99 OVR Matthew Tkachuk card for NHL 25’s HUT, along with a HUT Player Pack.

    The Deluxe Edition has a price tag of $99.99 (currently $89.99), and those who pre-order can start playing a week earlier. This edition also comes with an additional 4,600 NHL Points and a HUT Starter Choice Pack. EA Play subscribers will enjoy extra benefits such as 3,000 World of Chel Coins, Season Pass XP Multiplier Tokens, and a 10% discount on digital content.

    Innovative Features

    NHL 26 is set to elevate the gaming experience with its ICE-Q 2.0 system, which utilizes NHL EDGE positional data. This system incorporates real-world puck dynamics and the movements of NHL players, accurately simulating their skating speeds, shot power, and unique moves.

    The Goalie Crease Control System is also revamped, improving netminder mechanics for better positioning and more realistic saves, addressing a concern fans have raised for a long time.

    Exciting Game Modes

    Moreover, the Be A Pro mode is reportedly receiving its largest update since NHL 21. Players can look forward to fresh storylines, new NHL players, and cinematic cutscenes. The Hockey Ultimate Team will introduce HUT seasons, permitting players to take part in ranked matches. Those seeking a more relaxed single-player experience can enjoy the offline Hut Cup Chase Mode.

    Mike Inglehart, the Creative Director of EA Sports, stated, “NHL 26 is the most true-to-life experience we’ve ever built.” Excitement among the NHL player community is already building for the early release ahead of the October season kickoff.

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  • “Ready or Not Physical Release Delayed to September 26 in US”

    “Ready or Not Physical Release Delayed to September 26 in US”

    Key Takeaways

    1. The physical release of “Ready or Not” for consoles in the U.S. has been delayed to September 26, 2025, while the EU release is still set for August 8, 2025.

    2. The developers, VOID Interactive, need more time to finalize the physical console edition but did not specify the reasons for the delay.

    3. “Ready or Not” achieved significant success, selling 1 million copies in the first four days of its console launch and reaching over 11 million sales across all platforms since its initial release.

    4. The game is available digitally in a Standard Edition for $49.99 and a Deluxe Edition for $69.99, which includes additional content like DLCs and a Season Pass.

    5. Censorship changes due to certification requirements from Sony and Microsoft affected the game’s content, leading to backlash from fans and a wave of negative reviews on Steam.


    Collectors eager to get their hands on a copy of VOID Interactive’s tactical shooter, Ready or Not, will have to hold on a little longer. The developers have revealed that the physical release for consoles in the U.S. will now be pushed back to September 26, 2025. Meanwhile, the physical editions are still scheduled to arrive in EU stores on August 8, 2025, as initially planned.

    Delay Explanation

    VOID Interactive shared this update on their official X account, explaining that the team requires additional time to finalize the physical console edition. However, they did not provide any specific reasons for the postponement.

    Game Success

    Ready or Not made its console debut on platforms like the Xbox Series S|X and PS5 on July 15, 2025, achieving remarkable success. In just the first four days, the game sold a staggering 1 million copies and has since shipped digital copies to a total of 2 million players.

    Earlier, Ready or Not was released in Early Access on Steam on December 17, 2021, and had its full launch on December 13, 2023. Since that time, it has reached over 11 million sales across all platforms. According to SteamDB, the game enjoys a ‘Very Positive’ user rating of 75.45%, with 215,826 positive reviews out of 283,824 total reviews on Steam.

    Pricing and Editions

    Currently, Ready or Not is available digitally for consoles in a Standard Edition priced at $49.99 for the base game, alongside a Deluxe Edition for $69.99, which includes Mission Pass Alpha (Season Pass), Home Invasion DLC, Dark Waters DLC, and a Triple Weapon Pack featuring the 590M 12-gauge Shotgun, 40mm M32A1 Launcher, and the MK-V .50AE Pistol.

    While the game’s console launch has been successful, it faced some backlash from its fanbase, as VOID Interactive was forced to remove certain elements depicting child endangerment, nudity, and torture scenes, moving away from the raw and controversial style the game was once acclaimed for.

    Censorship Impact

    This censorship was influenced by the certification requirements imposed by Sony and Microsoft for the PS5 and Xbox Series S|X. However, the changes also affected PC gamers, resulting in a significant wave of review-bombing on Steam, contributing to the bulk of the 68,008 negative reviews recorded at the time of this writing.

    U.S. collectors who were looking forward to the physical edition will need to be patient to enjoy VOID Interactive’s authentic tactical shooter due to this delay, unless they decide to purchase a copy from one of the many EU retailers that ship internationally.

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  • Helldivers 2 Launches on Xbox Series S|X After PS5 Release

    Helldivers 2 Launches on Xbox Series S|X After PS5 Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Helldivers 2 remains popular despite many similar live service games fading away.
    2. A significant update introduces the Illuminate faction and the game is now available on Xbox Series S|X.
    3. Two editions are offered: Standard and Super Citizen, with the latter providing unique in-game benefits.
    4. Pre-orders for Helldivers 2 on Xbox Series S|X are now available, with a release date set for August 26.
    5. The Standard Edition costs $40, while the Super Citizen Edition is priced at $60, with an upgrade option available.


    Despite being a live service game, Helldivers 2 remains popular even as many similar games have faded away. With a significant update introducing the Illuminate faction, Arrowhead has breathed new life into its main game by making it available on a completely new platform: the Xbox Series S|X. This release confirms a rumor from last year that suggested Sony would bring Helldivers 2 to the competing platform.

    Editions and Features

    Like the versions on PC and PlayStation 5, Helldivers 2 will be offered in two editions: Standard and Super Citizen. The Super Citizen edition includes a unique in-game tag to flaunt, an additional Premium Warbond, an extra piece of armor, a weapon, and most importantly, the chance to practice Strategems on your ship. This last benefit is particularly useful since many powerful Strategems, such as the Orbital Laser and 380 mm cannons, need fast and complicated inputs during intense battles.

    Pre-Order Details

    You can now pre-order Helldivers 2 for the Xbox Series S|X, with the release date set for August 26. The Standard Edition will cost $40, while the Super Citizen Edition is priced at $60. If you purchase the Standard Edition, you have the option to upgrade to Super Citizen later if you want. The release date chosen by Sony and Arrowhead is interesting as it aligns with the launch of Gears of War Reloaded, a previous Xbox exclusive, on PS5 and other platforms.

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