Tag: Xbox Series X

February 24, 2025
Monster Hunter Wilds PS5 Xbox Performance Issues Analyzed
Key Takeaways
1. Capcom reassured players that the open beta version of Monster Hunter Wilds does not reflect the final optimizations for the game, releasing on February 28.
2. The open-world design received praise for its vastness and vibrant environments filled with creatures and plants, offering a lively atmosphere.
3. Digital Foundry tested the game in three performance modes: Prioritize Resolution, Balanced, and Prioritize Framerate, with the Framerate mode providing the smoothest experience at 60fps.
4. Graphical issues persist, such as lack of low framerate compensation on PS5 and inconsistent lighting effects, affecting overall visual quality.
5. Despite earlier concerns from the beta, Monster Hunter Wilds has shown significant improvements, although the graphics may still not meet some fans’ high expectations.
The open beta for Monster Hunter Wilds has sparked worries about its performance. Capcom has assured players that the version they tested does not represent the latest optimizations. Now that reviews are out, gamers have a clearer picture of what to expect from the release on February 28. Digital Foundry has shared an in-depth technical assessment of the final versions for PS5 and Xbox. While the game’s intricate environments are impressive, a lack of sharpness often gives them a feel reminiscent of last-gen titles.
Open World Experience
Despite mixed performance feedback, Oliver Mackenzie commended the open-world aspect of Monster Hunter Wilds. The borders of the maps appear boundless, especially when compared to Monster Hunter: World. The environments are alive with a variety of creatures and plants, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Furthermore, animations live up to expectations, showcasing realistic movements from both hunters and monsters.
Performance Testing
Digital Foundry evaluated Monster Hunter Wilds in three modes: Prioritize Resolution, Balanced, and Prioritize Framerate. Generally, the framerate targets were achieved in each setting. The Framerate mode offered the most fluid experience, including an option for a cap at 60fps. However, blurry textures might tempt players to choose the 30fps or 40fps options in the other modes.
Graphical Concerns
Sadly, Monster Hunter Wilds fails to fully deliver on graphical fidelity. The PS5 appears to lack low framerate compensation (LFC), leading to sporadic choppiness. In contrast, VRR on the Xbox Series X performs better, contributing to smoother visuals. Mackenzie also noted issues with the game’s inconsistent lighting effects. While objects are vibrant in bright sunlight, many maps often seem dim and grainy, with peculiar reflections.
Before players think about canceling their pre-orders, it’s important to mention that Monster Hunter Wilds has improved significantly since the open beta. Still, the vast worlds and intricate monsters may not appear as stunning as some fans had anticipated.
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Tags: Monster Hunter Wilds, PS5, Xbox Series X
February 24, 2025
PlayStation 5 Pro: A Disappointing Release for Sony Fans
Key Takeaways
1. Sony has launched a mid-generation PlayStation 5 Pro model, differing from Microsoft’s dual-launch strategy with Xbox Series S and X.
2. Analyst Mat Piscatella noted that the PlayStation 5 Pro is less popular and selling slower than the PlayStation 4 Pro in the U.S. market.
3. Production issues could arise for Sony if inventory levels exceed sales, potentially leading to lower retail prices and increased storage costs.
4. Despite sales challenges, Sony remains the leader in the current console generation, selling significantly more PS5 units than the combined Xbox Series X and S.
5. The PlayStation 5 Pro is priced at 750€, which is 300€ more than the standard PS5, and it does not include a disc drive, potentially affecting buyer interest.
In a different approach compared to Microsoft, Sony has introduced a more robust mid-generation model of the PlayStation 5. While Xbox opted for a dual-launch strategy with both the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X, differing in capabilities, Sony’s recent moves have sparked discussions. Analyst Mat Piscatella shared insights on BlueSky, indicating that the PlayStation 5 Pro is trailing behind the PlayStation 4 Pro in popularity and sales within the U.S. market.
Production Concerns for Sony
If production numbers are not aligning with sales, this could create challenges for Sony. High inventory might push retailers to lower prices or lead to decreased orders, resulting in increased storage expenses for the company. However, this situation is not likely to endanger Sony’s strategic position. Even without precise and current sales data, Sony remains the leader in this console generation, likely having sold twice as many PS5 units compared to the combined sales of the Xbox Series X and S. This dominance could make it tough for Microsoft to maintain its exclusive titles.
Pricing Comparisons
Finding a straightforward comparison between the sales of the PlayStation 5 Pro and its predecessor, the PlayStation 4 Pro, isn’t easy. The PlayStation 4 Pro was priced around 500€ when adjusted for inflation, whereas the PlayStation 5 Pro is currently listed at 750€ on Amazon. Notably, the PlayStation 4 Pro had a price increase of 100€ over the standard PlayStation 4, while the PS5 Pro and PS5 launched with a 300€ price gap. Additionally, the PlayStation 5 Pro lacks a disc drive, which could influence buyer decisions.
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Tags: PlayStation 5 Pro, sales comparison, Xbox Series X
February 20, 2025
Game Developers Excited for Nintendo Switch 2’s Faster SoC and More RAM
Key Takeaways
1. Limited RAM on the first-gen Switch forced developers to compress game files and textures significantly.
2. The low-spec CPU resulted in longer loading screens when optimizing for preloaded textures, or performance drops when handling additional tasks.
3. Developers had to lower target resolutions for games, often aiming for 540p to 720p instead of the typical 1440p or 4K.
4. There’s excitement among developers for the Switch 2, with hopes of better porting capabilities for games from newer consoles.
5. Rumored specifications for the Switch 2 include 12 GB of RAM and improved CPU/GPU performance, which could enhance game development and performance.
The challenges faced when adapting games for the first-gen Switch hardware stemmed largely from its limited capabilities across the board. Developers noted that the RAM was only half of what more robust competitors had, forcing them to compress game files and textures “to the limit” in order to conserve memory. Similarly, the low-spec CPU meant developers had a choice: they could either spend considerable time optimizing their games to preload textures and environments, which led to longer loading screens, or they could let the already-busy CPU handle additional background tasks, which caused a drop in performance.
Developer Insights
“We had to squeeze textures as much as we could to save on memory, but the downside was that for every memory bit we freed, the game looked better. It was kinda like solving a puzzle, and honestly, it was fun,” shared one developer who spoke to Automaton.
Resolution Challenges
The Switch’s somewhat underwhelming GPU meant that developers had to significantly lower their target resolutions—from 1440p and 4K, typical for the latest consoles, to about 540p to 720p for Switch adaptations. Often, the resolution aimed for in these ports was only 25% of the Switch’s own native 720p display.
Looking Forward
When asked about their hopes for the Switch 2, developers expressed enthusiasm about being able to port more games, particularly those made for newer consoles like the Xbox Series X (priced at $499.99 on Amazon) and PlayStation 5 (also $499.99 on Amazon). Although Nintendo has not yet disclosed precise details about the Switch 2’s specifications, rumors suggest that the new console may come with around 12 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and an 8 nm SoC, which would greatly enhance both CPU and GPU performance. This advancement could facilitate the development and operation of both native Switch games and game ports.
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Tags: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X
February 14, 2025
Microsoft Advances New Xbox Console Amid Cross-Platform Plans
Key Takeaways
1. Xbox Series X sales have dropped, prompting questions about the future of a new console.
2. Overall console sales in the gaming industry have decreased, with Microsoft focusing on Game Pass and multi-platform games.
3. Microsoft remains committed to developing new hardware, aiming to introduce unique features for a future Xbox console.
4. Speculation exists about a possible Xbox handheld or hybrid console similar to the Nintendo Switch.
5. Microsoft’s shift away from Xbox exclusives has surprised some industry insiders, indicating potential changes in strategy.
Microsoft’s decision to bring its games to various platforms has raised questions about the future of a new Xbox console. It’s not a shock that the Xbox Series X has seen a drop in sales. Nonetheless, Jez Corden from Windows Central recently stated that Microsoft is dedicated to launching new hardware. Although it may be years before we see this new console, the company is moving beyond the early development phase.
Console Market Challenges
The Xbox consoles aren’t the only ones facing difficulty in attracting new buyers. Overall, console sales in the gaming industry have decreased over the past year, even if Sony is not feeling the pinch as much. Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch is experiencing a slump in sales, but rumors about a Switch 2 are surfacing. In contrast, PC gaming is steadily gaining ground with a vast array of game titles available. As support for current consoles weakens, Microsoft is focusing more on Game Pass, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and games that work on multiple platforms.
Microsoft’s Commitment to New Hardware
Despite leaning on other platforms for income, Microsoft isn’t giving up on developing a new console. Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, mentioned that today’s gaming consoles lack a distinct identity. He believes that the existing hardware misses the unique features that could make gaming on a specific system more enticing. While not revealing too much, he hinted that the upcoming Xbox console could introduce innovations that would change the gaming experience in surprising ways.
Future Possibilities
It’s also uncertain whether Jez Corden’s comments were about the anticipated Xbox handheld. Given the rise of mobile and cloud gaming, a hybrid console like the Nintendo Switch could fulfill various functions. It’s likely that a comparable Xbox console would also do well in a docked format, similar to the Switch or the Steam Deck.
Some industry insiders have been taken aback by Microsoft’s swift move away from Xbox exclusives. If the development of a new Xbox console is indeed underway, the company might swiftly alter its approach once more.
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Tags: Game Pass, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X
February 12, 2025
Avowed Review Leaked Before Tomorrow’s Embargo Date
Key Takeaways
1. Avowed aims to attract more players to Microsoft’s Game Pass service but currently only available on PC and Xbox, with potential PS5 release later.
2. Initial reviews suggest Avowed might be well-received, with one review scoring it 9.5 out of 10 for its lively settings and exciting combat.
3. The game features a semi-open world design, allowing exploration and combat in both first-person and third-person perspectives.
4. Concerns about performance exist, but a confirmed 60 fps mode will be available on Xbox Series X, albeit with lower graphical quality.
5. Character creation options are limited at the start but become more diverse as players progress in the game.
Microsoft is hoping that Avowed will draw in more players to its well-liked Game Pass service. Currently, the action RPG can only be played on PCs and Xbox consoles, but there’s still a chance it could come to PS5 later. Some gamers worry that Avowed won’t match the charm of Obsidian Entertainment’s 2015 title, Pillars of Eternity. However, if the first leaked review is to be trusted, it might end up being a hit with critics.
Review Timing and Insights
Initially, gamers thought they would have to wait until February 13th to get feedback from journalists. The supposed date for the review embargo aligns with the game’s early access launch. The first review from the But Why Tho? site was removed shortly after it was posted on the OpenCritic aggregator. Nevertheless, some keen Reddit users managed to snag the summary and score from the article before it was taken down.
Impressive Score and Features
This reviewer gave Avowed a score of 9.5 out of 10, praising its lively settings, exciting combat, and high replay value. This news is particularly positive for those who don’t subscribe to Game Pass and are hesitant about the game’s $70 price tag, especially since the Premium Edition costs even more. Avowed is a semi-open world RPG where players can explore and engage in combat from both first-person and third-person perspectives. If players had to stick to a single path, the expansive environments of Eora could feel rather limiting.
Performance and Customization Concerns
As the release date of Avowed approaches on February 18th, there have been worries about its performance. Obsidian recently confirmed that a 60 fps mode will be available on the Xbox Series X, albeit with reduced graphical quality, to ease these concerns. The But Why Tho? reviewer did not address performance in the summary but did touch on another topic of contention. Character creation seems to be more restricted than in Pillars of Eternity, allowing only humans and elves as choices. Still, the review suggests that customization options become more diverse as the game advances, whether it’s about cosmetic features or weapon selections.
It’s important to note that a single review doesn’t always reflect how the game will be viewed by other critics and players. Those looking to buy Avowed won’t have to wait long for additional reviews and player feedback to start rolling in.
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Tags: Avowed, Game Pass, Xbox Series X
February 10, 2025
Take-Two CEO: GTA 6 to Boost Consoles, Sees Big PC Market
Key Takeaways
1. GTA 6 is set to launch on consoles in 2025, with PC gamers facing a longer wait.
2. Take-Two’s CEO believes releasing GTA 6 first on consoles will significantly boost console sales.
3. Past games from Rockstar, like Red Dead Redemption 2 and GTA 5, experienced delayed PC releases.
4. PC versions can account for 40% of total game sales, but Take-Two is confident in their strategy for GTA 6.
5. The game is expected to push current console capabilities, allowing Rockstar to optimize performance before focusing on the PC version.
While owners of the PS5 and Xbox Series X are looking forward to a GTA 6 launch in 2025, PC gamers will have to wait even longer. Recently, IGN inquired with Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick about their strategy of releasing the game first on consoles. Zelnick didn’t clearly explain this approach, but he expressed confidence that GTA 6 would boost console sales significantly.
Console vs. PC Release Strategy
Zelnick highlighted that some of Take-Two Interactive’s projects come out at the same time on both PCs and consoles. However, his mention of Civilization 7, which originated on PC, seems like an odd example. For Rockstar Games, Red Dead Redemption 2 was not released on PC until over a year after it launched on the PS4 and Xbox One. In the past, the PC version of GTA 5 also faced a long delay before it was available to players.
Sales Insights
During the IGN interview, Zelnick recognized that PC versions of games can make up 40% of total sales. Nonetheless, he is convinced that Take-Two’s strategy with GTA 6 will be successful. He acknowledged that Xbox Series X sales are currently lagging, while Switch sales have hit a plateau. It’s a bold assertion that one game could revive the console market, but the massive anticipation surrounding GTA 6 might just meet that challenge.
Frustrations of PC Gamers
PC gamers are understandably upset due to the unclear release date for GTA 6. Some speculate that Take-Two is trying to avoid leaks about the game, which could happen if any code, finished or not, gets out. Other people view this as a smart business tactic, allowing enough time for players to finish the single-player campaign. Afterward, PC gamers could return to enjoy the game with better performance and mods.
Pushing the Limits
What is known about GTA 6 suggests that it will stretch the capabilities of current consoles. Rockstar Games can concentrate on enhancing performance for these consoles before turning its attention to the PC version.
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Tags: GTA 6, PS5, Xbox Series X
February 6, 2025
Avowed Game Director Confirms 60 FPS for Xbox Series X
Obsidian Entertainment’s forthcoming game, Avowed, takes the finest aspects from both action and open-world RPGs. Positioned in the same universe as Pillars of Eternity, the title employs Unreal Engine 5, which has faced various performance challenges. This raises concerns for both PC and Xbox players regarding how well the intricate environments of Avowed will perform. In a recent interview with MinnMax, Carrie Patel, the game’s director, shared encouraging news for console users. With the release date set for February 18th, Patel confirmed that the Xbox Series X version will have a 60 fps mode.
Insights from the Interview
The MinnMax interview with Patel is a must-watch, featuring an impressive 175 questions that were addressed. Since most of the details about Avowed were already public knowledge, Reddit users quickly honed in on the issue of performance. This interview supports prior speculation from someone who had the chance to play the game on Microsoft’s consoles. While players on the Xbox Series S were limited to frames rates of 30 or 40 fps, those on the Series X can choose between 30, 40, or 60 fps. It’s likely that some graphical quality could be compromised to achieve the higher frame rates.
Surprising Developments
The announcement of a 60 fps performance mode comes as a surprise, especially since Obsidian had indicated otherwise back in August 2024. The studio had mentioned their focus on lighting and detail rather than emphasizing faster-paced gameplay for Avowed. However, they appeared open to making adjustments to performance prior to the game’s launch.
Avowed faced a delay in August, which Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer attributed to a crowded Game Pass schedule. Still, this additional time for development might lead to improved performance for the RPG title from Obsidian.
System Requirements for PC
The system requirements for Avowed on PC aren’t overly demanding. To enjoy a solid experience, players should have at least a Radeon RX 5700 or GeForce GTX 1070. For the recommended setup, an RX 6800 XT or RTX 3080 is required. However, some testers have already noted that the RPG is putting a strain on their systems.
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Tags: Avowed, Unreal Engine 5, Xbox Series X
February 1, 2025
GTA 5 Player Count Soars as Fans Anticipate GTA 6 Release Date
Since it was unveiled in December 2023, gamers have been eagerly seeking any fresh updates on GTA 6. Despite having an official release window set for fall 2025, specific release dates for GTA 6 are frequently speculated on, only to be dismissed later. This frustration has led fans to turn back to GTA 5, which is currently seeing one of its highest player counts in the last decade.
Player Count Surge
As January wraps up, Steam Charts shows that there have been more than 129,000 concurrent players of GTA 5 on average throughout the month. Aside from December 2023, this marks the most successful month for the crime-action adventure game since 2020. The peak player count for January also compares favorably with the best numbers seen during that time. It’s important to note that Steam Charts does not account for player data from Epic Games or console versions of GTA 5.
The Endurance of GTA 5
GTA 5 is definitely not the only title to see a spike in popularity before a highly awaited sequel arrives. Nevertheless, the game continues to thrive, thanks in part to its captivating open-world design. The allowance of mods for the single-player campaign also plays a significant role in keeping players hooked. While the original game has stopped receiving new downloadable content, GTA Online still enjoys weekly updates that keep the content fresh.
Future Prospects and Technical Concerns
With GTA 5 staying so successful, Rockstar Games doesn’t feel the need to rush out a new installment. Another worry for gamers is how well GTA 6 will perform on Xbox Series X or PS5. The developers have promised that the game will feature large environments with rich textures. Some gamers might stick to GTA 5 if the new consoles struggle with performance, potentially running at a shaky 30 fps. When the game eventually launches for PCs, optimal performance will likely require an expensive graphics card.
Despite these technical issues, the excitement surrounding GTA 6 isn’t fading. Until the PC release date is announced, GTA 5 will likely continue to be a major draw on Steam.
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Tags: GTA 5, GTA 6, Xbox Series X
December 22, 2024
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
Tags: Game Pass, PlayStation 5, S, Xbox Series X
November 16, 2024
Xbox Early Black Friday Deals: Huge Discounts on Games for PC & Xbox
Microsoft has kicked off its Xbox Black Friday deals almost two weeks ahead of the big shopping event. The range of discounts includes exciting offers on some top games currently on Xbox, whether you prefer classic strategy titles, blockbuster AAA games, or indie gems that have built a loyal fanbase.
Highlights of the Sale
The Xbox Black Friday sale features a wide array of games, with many seeing discounts of up to 85%. A significant number of these titles are exclusively available for the Xbox Series S (starting at $299.99 on Amazon) and Series X (beginning at $448 on Amazon) consoles.
Important Note
It’s worth noting that Notebookcheck cannot be held liable for any price changes made by retailers. The prices or deals mentioned here were accurate at the time of writing, but they may change over time or have limited availability.
Tags: Xbox Black Friday, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X