Tag: Xbox Series X/S

  • CEO Asha Sharma hints at Xbox exclusives despite slow sales

    CEO Asha Sharma hints at Xbox exclusives despite slow sales

    Key Takeaway

    – Microsoft plans to increase third-party Xbox exclusives
    – CEO admits underinvestment in key franchises and new IP
    – Historical Xbox exclusivity success faded after Xbox 360 era
    – Xbox install base is dwarfed by PlayStation, limiting leverage
    – Hardware shortages and weak sales make exclusivity deals unrealistic

    Microsoft Brings Back Old Exclusives

    Microsoft granted some supporters’ wishes by reintroducing Xbox exclusive games like Gears of War: E-Day. While the shooter is a first-party project, CEO Asha Sharma has also hinted at greater third-party exclusivity. Still, that may be unrealistic when considering the component shortage and lagging console sales.

    Memo Reveals New Strategy

    As news of impending layoffs broke, Sharma and Chief Content Officer Matt Booty made the surprising reference in a memo to employees. The executive acknowledged that the company hadn’t invested enough in its valuable franchises. She also said that “a reliable pipeline of first- and third-party exclusives and new IP are critical to our success.”

    Third Party Games Showcased

    The CEO mentioned that some third parties had already appeared at the Xbox Games Showcase. It’s unclear which candidates would meet the criteria, as Microsoft owns the studios developing Gears of War: E-Day and Clockwork Revolution. Nevertheless, the comments have reminded some fans of the Xbox 360 era.

    History of Exclusives

    Microsoft offered third-party Xbox exclusives regularly on its first three consoles. The original system boasted the popular Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, developed by BioWare and published by LucasArts. The trend continued with titles including Mass Effect and Dead Rising on the Xbox 360.

    Decline in Success

    During the Xbox One lifecycle, that success began to fade. Rise of the Tomb Raider launched as a timed exclusive, but failed to perform as well as the prior multi-platform game. The number of releases then dwindled in the Series X and Series S generation. That said, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl thrived before it arrived on the PS5 a year later.

    Install Base Problem

    The problem for Microsoft is that the Xbox console install base is dwarfed by its PlayStation rival. Increasingly, games like Phantom Blade Zero will, at least initially, skip their systems. Publishers also now realize the potential for multi-platform profits. Even Sony has lost former third-party exclusives from the Final Fantasy series.

    Hardware Shortages Hit

    Another issue Sharma highlighted in the memo is that the manufacturer is struggling to produce enough hardware to meet demand. The storage and memory shortage has hit Microsoft particularly hard. Whether demand is high is debatable, although there have been signs of a rebound in console sales.

    Future Looks Bleak

    Considering these challenges, it’s difficult to imagine any partners willing to turn away the PS5 or Switch 2.


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  • PS5 price hike slashes UK sales as Xbox gains from exclusive game

    PS5 price hike slashes UK sales as Xbox gains from exclusive game

    Key Takeaway

    – PS5 sales dropped 50% in May due to a £90 price increase.
    – Xbox nearly matched PS5 sales, outsold by only 400 units in the UK.
    – Forza Horizon 6 drove a 12% monthly improvement for Xbox.
    – The Xbox Series X is now £70 cheaper than the standard PS5.
    – Microsoft may reconsider its cross-platform strategy amid the sales shift.

    UK Retail Data Shows PlayStation Sales Plummet

    May retail data in the UK confirms that PlayStation suffered a steep drop in console sales. The latest PS5 price increase contributed to a 50% decline compared to the prior month. Meanwhile, as Microsoft nearly catches Sony on the charts, Xbox fans are crediting an exclusive game for the turnaround.

    Christopher Dring Teases the Numbers

    Christopher Dring of The Game Business teased the numbers on social media. While the higher MSRP for PlayStation consoles took effect in early April, not all stores reacted immediately. Still, as buyers rushed to claim units, the more affordable existing supply ran out by May.

    Xbox Sales Resurgence a Surprise

    Many gamers find the resurgence in Xbox console sales the most newsworthy development. Dring noted that for the month, the PS5 “only outsold Xbox Series S/X by 400 units”. Thats particularly surprising, considering the system is often out of stock or not sold at some UK retailers.

    PS5 Price Hike Details

    On April 2nd, the PS5 price increase introduced a £90 rise for digital and disc versions, as well as the PS5 Pro. With the memory shortage wreaking havoc, the update came after an earlier upward adjustment in April 2025. The Xbox Series X 1TB with optical drive is now £70 cheaper than its standard PS5 rival.

    Exclusive Game Credited for Gains

    Even though Microsoft has implemented similar increases, its hardware now looks more tempting. However, in May, an Xbox exclusive game could be largely responsible for the manufacturer’s gains. Dring revealed that Forza Horizon 6 played a major role in the 12% monthly improvement.

    Forza Horizon 6 Debut

    Following its May 19th release date, the journalist previously disclosed a strong start for the open-world racer. In the UK, it debuted in 2nd place in physical sales behind LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight. That may not seem impressive, but Microsoft’s first-party titles struggle in these rankings. Starfield was the last contender to crack the top 5 in 2023.

    Future Xbox Exclusives

    Some fans believe that more Xbox exclusives would further capitalize on the PS5 price increase. CEO Asha Sharma has hinted that the company was reconsidering its cross-platform approach. For now, Forza Horizon 6 is still expected to launch on PlayStation later in 2026.

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  • 007 First Light Won’t Preload on Steam or Xbox

    007 First Light Won’t Preload on Steam or Xbox

    Key Takeaway

    – Pre-loading is not available on Steam or Xbox Series X/S for 007 First Light; only PlayStation 5 supports pre-loading.
    – Early access (Deluxe Edition) begins 24 hours before release, but download can’t start until official launch on Steam/Xbox, potentially wasting early access time.
    – The exact reason for the lack of pre-loading on Steam/Xbox hasn’t been disclosed by IO Interactive.

    Pre-loading allows players to download a game before its official release time so they can jump in immediately once it unlocks. It is especially useful for large modern games, as they can take several hours to download, depending on internet speeds. Unfortunately, if you were planning to pre-load 007 First Light on PC or Xbox, there’s some disappointing news.

    Launch Details and Early Access

    The game is scheduled to launch on May 27, while players who purchased the Deluxe Edition upgrade will get access 24 hours earlier through early access. However, IO Interactive has now confirmed that pre-loading will not be available on Steam or Xbox Series X/S.

    Platform-Specific Pre-Load

    According to the game’s community manager on Reddit, the earliest point players on Steam and Xbox will be able to download the game is at the official release time itself. In other words, PC and Xbox users will need to wait until launch before they can even begin downloading the files. PlayStation 5 will be the only platform getting pre-load support, as it is mandatory on Sony’s platform.

    At the moment, IO Interactive has not shared an exact reason behind why pre-loading is unavailable on Steam and Xbox for 007 First Light. This is particularly frustrating for players who purchased the Deluxe Edition specifically for early access. Since they only get 24 hours of early playtime before the standard release, some of that limited access window could now end up being spent simply downloading the game instead of actually playing it.

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  • Story of Seasons Grand Bazaar Release Date for PS5 and Xbox May 28

    Story of Seasons Grand Bazaar Release Date for PS5 and Xbox May 28

    Key Takeaway

    1. “Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar” is expanding to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S on May 28, 2026, marking its first appearance on PlayStation and Xbox platforms.
    2. The game is a full 3D remake of the 2010 Nintendo DS title “Harvest Moon DS: Grand Bazaar,” featuring an expanded world, new characters, and voiced dialogue.
    3. It includes updates such as new gliders, minigame rewards, and a crossover with Rune Factory, with platform-specific enhancements yet to be detailed.
    4. Both physical and digital editions are available, with the Premium Edition offering additional collectibles, and the digital version includes a bonus DLC.
    5. The game has been well-received, selling over 500,000 copies post-launch, indicating strong interest and revitalization of the franchise.

    Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar Coming to New Consoles

    Exciting news for players, the beloved farming simulation game, story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar, is set to be released on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S come May 28, 2026. Marvelous announced these new versions this week, broadening the reach of the game beyond its initial launch on Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and PC in August 2025. It’s a first time for the series to appear on PlayStation and Xbox hardware, marking a significant milestone for fans around the world.

    Game Remake with New Features

    The game itself is an remake of the 2010 Nintendo DS game Harvest Moon DS: Grand Bazaar. This upgrade features a full 3D reconstruction of the original game with all new content, including more characters, a bigger world, and voice acting during story sequences — which is a big deal since it’s the very first time the series has included voiced dialogues. You will explore Zephyr Town, a mountain village with a once lively weekly bazaar that has now fallen into decline. Players are tasked to manage a farm, grow crops, take care of animals, and craft items to sell at the weekly bazaar stall. The wind plays an essential part in the gameplay: it powers windmills and helps make new items, and a glider allows quick travel across the map to avoid slow walks from place to place.

    Platform Enhancements and Content

    Marvelous didn’t go into details about any platform-specific improvements for the PS5 and Xbox versions, but did confirm that both will include all updates released since the initial launch, which currently is at version 1.4.0. This version introduced two cherry blossom-themed gliders and some rewards for the Happy Bingo minigame. An intriguing crossover with Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma has also been announced, but the exact content available upon launch for on these new consoles remains unconfirmed, leaving fans eager for more.

    Pricing and Special Editions

    • Standard edition costs $49.99 and includes the base game.
    • Premium Edition priced at $69.99 offers the game along with a plush Suffolk sheep, a cloth poster, an art book with over 115 pages of artwork, and an original soundtrack CD, making it a must-have for collectors.
    • Digital buyers will also snag the Cow Set DLC—featuring a cow-themed glider and costume—as a bonus purchase, adding to the farmyard fun.

    Reception and Sales Performance

    Since its release in August 2025 across Switch, Switch 2, and PC, this game has received a ‘Very Positive’ rating on Steam after just two days and has been critically acclaimed across all platforms. Marvelous also announced that over 500,000 copies have been sold within a few months, reflecting a successful comeback for a franchise that had found it tough to attract younger audiences since the split of Harvest Moon into separate franchises. The upcoming PS5 and Xbox Series X/S release is highly anticipated and promises to expand the game’s popularity even further, with a scheduled launch of May 28, 2026.

    More Gaming Insights

    For those interested in gaming music, a recent interview with Hitoshi Sakimoto, the composer of Final Fantasy Tactics, shed light on his work, revealing that the FFT soundtrack is rooted in rock music. The soundtrack will be performed at the Colors of Harmony concert, giving fans a chance to experience the iconic music live.

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  • PS5 Surpasses Nintendo Switch 2 Sales in November, Console Spending Drops

    PS5 Surpasses Nintendo Switch 2 Sales in November, Console Spending Drops

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 is exceeding retail sales expectations, making a strong impact in the market.
    2. PS5 sales are leading the charts in November, marking its first dominance since the launch of its handheld competitor.
    3. Xbox Series X and S are struggling with higher prices and competition from other gaming options, like Nex Playground.
    4. Total hardware sales fell by 27% year-over-year, with November 2023 seeing the lowest sales figures since 2005.
    5. Concerns over high hardware prices and economic conditions may affect future console sales, despite PS5’s current success.

    The Switch 2 is doing great for Nintendo, surpassing what was expected in retail sales. Meanwhile, Sony’s gaming consoles are still holding strong, with PS5 sales leading Circana’s charts in November. According to U.S. data, the PlayStation console has taken the top spot for the first time since its handheld competitor was launched.

    Xbox Faces Tough Competition

    With their higher prices, the Xbox Series X and S had a tough month during a busy shopping period. Microsoft even found itself behind the family-friendly Nex Playground, which uses motion control. At this moment, it seems Sony and Nintendo are really in control of the console market.

    Insights on Sales Performance

    To give more insight into the sales figures, Circana’s Mat Piscatella shared some thoughts on PS5’s success. He warns gamers not to panic over the lower sales of the Switch 2. The analyst points out that the handheld is still the fastest-selling console since tracking began. However, he also mentions that the large supply at launch may have taken away potential sales later in 2025.

    The Switch 2’s price is a lot higher than the earlier model, which is a big deal. Even if it hasn’t gone up in price, players are facing tough economic times. Sony’s Black Friday offers helped buyers, but discounts on Nintendo’s handheld weren’t as common.

    Market Concerns

    While Sony might be happy with the Circana report, there are some concerning signs for the hardware market. Total sales dropped by 27% when compared to the same time last year. Spending hit $695 million, the lowest November figure since 2005. Retailers managed to sell just 1.6 million units, marking the worst performance since November 1995.

    The disappointing numbers could be attributed to the average cost of hardware being $439. A past study indicated that, considering inflation, the PS5 should actually be priced at $229 for a console that’s five years old. Increasing costs for memory and storage could also lead to even higher prices for consoles in the future.

    Despite these cautionary notes, PS5 sales are still leading worldwide. Although the Switch 2 had been ahead in the U.S. until recently, PlayStation has regained the top spot in several European countries.

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  • Xbox Gift Cards Offered to Gamers After Price Increase Complaints

    Xbox Gift Cards Offered to Gamers After Price Increase Complaints

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retailers are not offering discounts on Xbox consoles this holiday season due to rising prices.
    2. Some fans are receiving unexpected $10 Xbox gift card codes as a small token from Microsoft.
    3. The selection process for receiving these codes is unclear, with notifications found in various Xbox apps and consoles.
    4. Xbox Rewards points can no longer be used for Game Pass fees, leading to concerns about fan loyalty.
    5. Game Pass Ultimate subscribers are earning points faster due to increased weekly bonuses and a new points system.

    Following the rise in prices for Xbox consoles, many retailers are not providing discounts this holiday season. With Game Pass subscriptions also becoming more expensive, supporting Microsoft’s platform can be a financial burden. Nevertheless, to ease this situation, some fans are unexpectedly receiving free Xbox gift card codes.

    Good News for Gamers

    According to Pure Xbox, several users have shared this positive news on Reddit. Typically, gamers like AnXboxDude have reported receiving $10 codes that can be used for Xbox games or subscriptions. While this won’t completely counterbalance the high price increases, it is certainly a small token from Microsoft.

    Where to Find the Codes

    This offer doesn’t appear to be widespread, but it may be useful to check consoles and apps. On the Series X and S, the notification should show up in the Parties and Chats section of the dashboard. PC users might find the code in the Friends tab of the official Xbox app. Some other players have discovered the free gift card on the Offers and Credits page of the Xbox website.

    Unclear Selection Process

    Microsoft’s process for selecting who gets these codes is not clear. One user received a similar reward after purchasing a console, yet other players who haven’t made significant purchases in recent months also received codes. The codes must be redeemed by December 31st, so there isn’t much time for users to take advantage of this offer.

    Loyalty Concerns

    Fans have not always felt valued, especially in the last few months. Xbox Rewards allows gamers to earn points through playing games or buying eligible items. Sadly, since October 1st, members have been unable to use those points for Game Pass fees. A workaround involves redeeming them for Xbox gift cards, which can be used for subscription payments. However, this method does not provide the same value as it did before the changes were implemented.

    Earning Points Faster

    Despite the price rising to $29.99, Game Pass Ultimate subscribers are now earning points at a quicker rate. Microsoft has increased weekly bonuses and currently offers four points for every dollar spent.

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  • Red Dead Redemption 2 Next-Gen Port Rumors Await Confirmation

    Red Dead Redemption 2 Next-Gen Port Rumors Await Confirmation

    Key Takeaways

    1. No Formal Announcements: Rockstar has not confirmed any next-gen version, Switch 2 port, or remaster of Red Dead Redemption 2 despite ongoing community discussions.

    2. Shifted Expectations: Gamer excitement has shifted from eager anticipation to cautious hope, with many viewing a potential port as a distant possibility.

    3. Current Compatibility: Players can enjoy Red Dead Redemption 2 on current-gen consoles and PC through backwards compatibility, but a tailored version for PS5 or Xbox Series X/S is still absent.

    4. Desired Enhancements: A next-gen update could offer quicker load times, better visuals, and improved performance modes, especially for PS5 and Series consoles.

    5. Community Reactions: Opinions vary among fans, with some hopeful for an upcoming announcement while others accept a potential release may not happen until 2026 or later.

    The seventh year of Red Dead Redemption 2 has come and gone, with gamers paying more attention to store listings instead of celebratory posts. Despite ongoing rumors and discussions within the community, Rockstar has yet to make any formal announcement regarding a next-gen version, a port to Switch 2, or even a remaster of the cherished 2018 game.

    Shifting Perspectives

    A recent feature from TheGamer highlights a change in mood from eager anticipation to measured hope. While there are several discussions on Steam and other forums hinting that a port may be underway, the absence of any confirmation on the anniversary date has led many to view it as a distant possibility rather than an upcoming release.

    Console Experience

    Players have been able to enjoy the complete version of the game on current-gen consoles and PC for years due to backwards compatibility. However, a tailored PS5 or Xbox Series X/S version still hasn’t emerged for those seeking an enhanced console experience. Speculations about a Switch 2 version have only added to the uncertainty, but the absence of a trailer, changes in listings, or any official messages from Rockstar means there’s nothing concrete.

    Anticipated Features

    A next-gen update would bring quicker load times, better visuals, and improved ray tracing or performance modes, particularly on PS5 and Series consoles. For Nintendo’s Switch 2, it would represent a significant advancement, offering an AAA open-world game that hasn’t been available on handheld-first devices before.

    Mixed Reactions

    Opinions in the community vary as fans await news on a potential release. Discussions on Reddit and X show a mix of hope for an unexpected announcement and the acceptance that a release might not happen until 2026 or even 2027. One user expressed skepticism, stating: “I’ll believe it when I see it, heard this for years.”

    Future Possibilities

    There is a chance that Rockstar could surprise everyone with a trailer or port listing just before the holiday 2025 shopping season, similar to how they revealed the PC version in 2019. Another likely scenario is a delay into 2026, as development resources may shift towards other projects, turning RDR2 into a long-term refresh of their back catalogue rather than an immediate update.

    For now, fans are left waiting to play the game in its full glory on the latest consoles. Though the anniversary has passed, the rumors persist; they’ve merely softened.

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  • Palworld Makes Big Announcement Amid Nintendo Legal Battle

    Palworld Makes Big Announcement Amid Nintendo Legal Battle

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has filed a lawsuit against Palworld for alleged intellectual property theft, but development continues.
    2. Palworld version 1.0 will launch in 2026 on PS5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC via Steam, ending early access.
    3. The development team is committed to delivering a high-quality game and is progressing well despite legal challenges.
    4. More updates regarding the console release and gameplay features are expected in the coming weeks and months.
    5. The frequency of new gameplay features may decrease by the end of 2025 due to ongoing legal issues.

    It’s been a number of months since Nintendo took legal action against Palworld over alleged intellectual property theft. However, instead of halting the game’s developers, it looks like they are determined to keep it moving forward.

    Upcoming Release Plans

    While the lawsuit is ongoing, Pocketpair announced on YouTube that Palworld version 1.0 will be available on PS5, Xbox Series X and S, as well as on PC via Steam in 2026, marking the end of early access at that time. They also shared a roadmap that showcases many new features set to come after the console launch.

    Commitment to Quality

    For those excited about this news, Bucky, the communication director at the studio, emphasized that the team is focused on taking their time to ensure a high-quality final product. Additionally, the developers have reassured fans that the progress on Palworld is moving swiftly, despite the ongoing legal issues with Nintendo.

    Future Updates

    Regarding the console release date and the conclusion of early access, players can expect more information in the next weeks and months. Meanwhile, Bucky has warned that by the end of 2025, new gameplay features might be less frequent. Whether Nintendo’s lawsuit will hinder the project remains uncertain, and only time will reveal the outcome.

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  • Next-Gen Red Dead Redemption 2 Update and Switch 2 Release This Month

    Next-Gen Red Dead Redemption 2 Update and Switch 2 Release This Month

    Key Takeaways

    1. Speculations suggest that the next-gen versions of Red Dead Redemption 2 for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S may release in August.
    2. A Nintendo Switch 2 version of Red Dead Redemption 2 is also expected to be announced this month.
    3. Rockstar has not confirmed any details about these potential releases, so information should be taken cautiously.
    4. The game originally launched in 2018 and has not yet received updates for newer consoles, suggesting performance enhancements could be beneficial.
    5. If announcements do not happen in August, they are likely to occur later in the year.

    For some time, there have been whispers about the arrival of the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S versions of Red Dead Redemption 2 this year. Although no specific dates have been linked to these speculations, the latest leak offers a hint of when it might come out. However, it’s important to remember that Rockstar has not confirmed any of this, so we should take these details lightly.

    Potential Release This Month

    A post by TREVOR4REAL on August 5 seems to have slipped by many, but it references “a dependable source” suggesting that the next-gen version of Red Dead Redemption 2 is set to drop this month, August. This would indicate that an optimized edition for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S will be available soon. Originally released in 2018 for Xbox One and PS4, Red Dead Redemption 2 has not received an update for the newer consoles. While it operates on the latest hardware, an upgrade could enhance its performance.

    Switch 2 Version on the Horizon

    Additionally, the leaker mentions that a version of Red Dead Redemption 2 for the Nintendo Switch 2, which has been discussed for some time, will also be revealed this month. Since the initial game list for Switch 2 was shown, many anticipated that Red Dead Redemption 2 would be included. There have been numerous leaks supporting this, and even the voice actor for one of the game’s main characters hinted at it during a live stream.

    Waiting for Official Confirmation

    That being said, no formal news has been released regarding a next-gen port or a Switch 2 version of Red Dead Redemption 2. Nonetheless, even if the announcement doesn’t occur in August, it’s likely to happen later this year.

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  • Black Myth: Wukong Release Date for Xbox Series Consoles Announced

    Black Myth: Wukong Release Date for Xbox Series Consoles Announced

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date for Xbox: Black Myth: Wukong will be available on Xbox Series X and Series S on August 20, 2025, one year after its initial launch.

    2. Pre-Order Availability: Pre-orders for the Xbox version begin on June 18, 2025, through the Microsoft Store.

    3. Discounts Across Platforms: The game will have a 20% discount available on all platforms during specific dates: PlayStation Store (June 18 – July 3), Steam and Epic Store (June 20 – July 11), and Microsoft Store (June 18 – July 11).

    4. Awards and Recognition: Black Myth: Wukong has won multiple awards, including Players’ Voice Best Action Game and Game of the Year 2024, and has received ‘Overwhelmingly Positive’ reviews on Steam.

    5. Pricing Information: The game is priced at $60 for PC and PS5, with a similar price expected for the Xbox version.

    Black Myth: Wukong was first revealed in August 2020 and showed a lot of potential. Created by Game Science, a game developer based in China, it finally launched in August 2024. Initially, it was only accessible on PC and PS5. Now, the developers have informed us that an Xbox Series X and Series S version will be released this year, along with some price cuts for all platforms.

    Release Date and Pre-Order Details

    The official Black Myth: Wukong account on X has announced that the game will be available on Xbox Series X and Series S consoles starting August 20, 2025. This marks exactly one year after its initial release. You can pre-order the game from the Microsoft Store beginning June 18.

    Discounts for All Platforms

    In addition, the team will be offering discounts on the game for the first time across all platforms, including the soon-to-be-released Xbox version. A 20% discount will be available on the PlayStation Store from June 18 to July 3, on PC through Steam and the Epic Store from June 20 to July 11, and on the Microsoft Store from June 18 to July 11.

    Awards and Pricing Information

    Black Myth: Wukong has achieved significant recognition, winning various awards such as Players’ Voice Best Action Game at The Game Awards and Game of the Year 2024 at The Stream Awards, among others. It has received ‘Overwhelmingly Positive’ reviews on Steam. The game, which is a single-player journey, is priced at $60 for PC and PS5, and a similar price is anticipated for the Xbox version (which is not yet listed).

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