Tag: Xbox Series X

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

    Black Myth: Wukong ESRB Rating for Xbox Indicates Launch Soon

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

    Delays and Optimizations

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

    Gameplay and Reception

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

    Anticipation for Release

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

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  • Everwild by Rare on Track After Setbacks and Reboot

    Everwild by Rare on Track After Setbacks and Reboot

    Since it was first teased with a brief trailer at XO19 in November 2019, Everwild has drawn the interest of many gamers. Rare, a studio famous for titles such as Donkey Kong Country, GoldenEye 007, Banjo-Kazooie, and Sea of Thieves, has seemingly been working on Everwild since 2014.

    Development Journey

    A decade later, despite a few trailers showcasing stunning visuals and potential gameplay, the actual nature of Everwild remains unclear, and at times, the studio seemed unsure as well. However, it looks like Rare has finally cracked the code, and Everwild is said to be making good progress.

    Positive Updates

    The most recent insights about Everwild come from Jez Corden at Windows Central, who claims that the game’s development is “going well” and that the studio has “nailed the gameplay loop, and we should be seeing that in the future.” This news is significant for fans eager for fresh updates on Rare’s upcoming AAA intellectual property. The previously undefined gameplay loop might have been a major factor in why Everwild was stuck in developmental limbo. The situation was so problematic that the game reportedly underwent a complete reboot in 2021, aiming for a release in 2024.

    Future Expectations

    With 2024 approaching, Xbox has not disclosed any information about Everwild’s release date. Thus, it seems the game is still not in a state to be showcased, and it may take some time before we see the full launch. While it’s known that Everwild is anticipated to be a third-person action-adventure title, specific details about its gameplay remain elusive. Nevertheless, we can infer some elements based on the 2020 trailer.

    The game seems to focus on the player’s relationship with wildlife and flora. For example, the trailer depicts characters rescuing a tree from an insect invasion by using a type of spell. In other scenes, they are seen guiding a large creature to topple a tree. There’s also a moment where a ritual is performed to heal a deer-like animal by calling on a spirit.

    From this, we might speculate that the game could have minimal combat and instead focus on safeguarding nature through rituals and spirit summoning. However, this is purely conjectural, and the final version of Everwild could feature a completely different gameplay approach. No matter how the gameplay evolves, we hope Rare has genuinely “nailed” it as Jez Corden suggests.

    Jez Corden via r/GamingLeaksAndRumors, Polygon, Teaser image: Xbox/Rare, edited.

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  • Microsoft Launches White Xbox Series X and New Storage Options

    Microsoft Launches White Xbox Series X and New Storage Options

    Microsoft has officially introduced a white variant of the Xbox Series X, catering to fans who favor a lighter look for their console. This new model eliminates the disc drive, making it an entirely digital experience, but retains the same robust performance as the original Xbox Series X for current Xbox games. While black is elegant, white has a pristine appeal.

    New Offerings

    In addition to the white Xbox Series X, Microsoft has also unveiled a white version of the Xbox Series S. The white Xbox Series X features 1TB of storage and is set to launch later this year, priced at $449.99. This announcement comes alongside the introduction of a special edition 2TB “Galaxy Black” version of the original Xbox Series X, which will be available for $599.99. For gamers on a budget, Microsoft is also releasing a new white version of the Xbox Series S with 1TB of storage, priced at $349.99, compared to the smaller $299 console.

    Design and Rumors

    The new white Xbox Series X matches the “robot white” color scheme of the Xbox Series S. Although leaks suggested that Microsoft may have upgraded the cooling system for this white model, official confirmation will likely have to wait until detailed teardowns are conducted.

    Additionally, the white Xbox Series X appears to confirm the cancellation or delay of a previously rumored refreshed version of the console, codenamed “Brooklin.” Leaked details had described Brooklin as having a more cylindrical design, lacking a disc drive, and being marketed as “adorably all digital.” It was planned for a November release with a price tag of $499 and a new bundled controller featuring Xbox Wireless 2 connectivity.

    Official Statements

    Last September, Xbox chief Phil Spencer addressed leaks about the refreshed Xbox Series X design, hinting at possible changes in their hardware roadmap. Spencer stated, “It is hard to see our team’s work shared in this way because so much has changed and there’s so much to be excited about right now, and in the future. We will share the real plans when we are ready.”

    Microsoft’s official announcement dispels these rumors, offering a white Xbox Series X along with storage enhancements for both the standard and special edition models.

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  • Microsoft reveals custom Final Fantasy 14 Xbox Series X giveaway

    Microsoft reveals custom Final Fantasy 14 Xbox Series X giveaway

    Microsoft and Square Enix have joined forces to mark the upcoming release of Final Fantasy 14 on Xbox Series X/S with a specially designed console. This unique Xbox Series X console, inspired by the game, is not available for purchase but can be won through an ongoing giveaway hosted by Xbox on Twitter.

    Custom Xbox Series X Console Giveaway

    The lucky winner of the giveaway will not only receive the custom console but also a controller, Final Fantasy 14 Complete Collector’s Edition, and a year of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. The giveaway aligns with the final week of the open beta for Final Fantasy 14 on Xbox Series X/S, concluding before the full launch on March 21.

    Features of the Custom Xbox Series X Console

    The distinct design of the custom Xbox Series X console is influenced by the in-game Aetherytes, a signature element for players of Final Fantasy 14. The console itself is adorned with gold accents, crystal embellishments, and the iconic logo of Final Fantasy 14. The accompanying controller features a crystal logo, a golden D-pad, and a meteor icon.

    How to Participate in the Giveaway

    To enter the giveaway, fans need to follow @Xbox and @FF_XIV_EN on Twitter, retweet the designated post with the hashtag #XboxFFXIVSweepstakes, and stand a chance to win this exclusive bundle. The giveaway is open until March 28th, and residents of Canada and Mexico can participate through @XboxCanada and @XboxMexico, respectively.

    It’s a bustling period for Final Fantasy 14 enthusiasts, as the console debut coincides with Patch 6.58 on March 19th and the Dawntrail panel at PAX East.

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

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

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

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

    Journey Across Gaming Platforms

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

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

    Unparalleled Freedom and Control

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

    A Seamless Gaming Experience

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

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