Tag: Xbox Series X|S

  • Delta Force Hits New Record with Over 213,000 Players on Steam

    Delta Force Hits New Record with Over 213,000 Players on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Record Player Count: Delta Force reached a peak of 213,519 concurrent players on Steam, surpassing its previous high shortly after its launch on December 5, 2024.

    2. Cross-Platform Expansion: The game launched on consoles (Xbox Series S|X and PlayStation 5) on August 19, 2025, significantly boosting its player base.

    3. Gameplay Features: Delta Force combines large PVP battles with extraction shooter elements and includes a campaign inspired by the 2001 film.

    4. Esports Growth: The game is hosting its first esports Invitational in China from September 19 to 21, 2025, with 12 teams competing for a $500,000 prize pool.

    5. Player Concerns: Players have raised issues regarding AI servers and cheating, despite enjoying the free-to-play model and cross-platform features.

    Team Jade and TiMi Studio Group’s free-to-play FPS, Delta Force, has reached a new high on Steam, boasting 213,519 concurrent players, as reported by SteamDB on September 6, 2025.

    Game’s Launch and Popularity

    The game was released on December 5, 2024, and has seen a steady rise on Steam’s charts, with player counts increasing every month since its launch. August alone saw a peak of 210,413 simultaneous players. This latest record beats its previous high on PC by a small margin. In addition, Delta Force made its way to consoles, launching on Xbox Series S|X and PlayStation 5 on August 19, 2025, which helped boost its player base across different platforms in that month.

    Gameplay Elements and Surprising Records

    Delta Force features massive PVP battles mixed with elements of extraction shooters and a campaign that pays tribute to the 2001 film. This is particularly notable in regions like China, which has its own tailored version of the game. Interestingly, the record peak of players happened without a major content update, unlike the previous peak which was driven by the launch of Season 5 on July 10.

    In light of this success, Delta Force is gearing up for its first-ever esports Invitational in China from September 19 to 21, 2025. This event will showcase 12 teams from eight different regions competing for the title of world champion and a cut of the $500,000 prize pool. The game is gradually shifting towards the competitive gaming scene, maintaining its upward trajectory.

    Player Concerns and Game History

    Nevertheless, players have voiced concerns about AI-laden servers and issues with cheaters. Furthermore, the game’s free-to-play model includes various cosmetic microtransactions, while its cross-platform feature continues to support this business model.

    Originally, Delta Force launched as a tactical FPS created by NovaLogic for Windows in October 1998. It utilized the Voxel Space engine, which offered unprecedented draw distances and terrain details for first-person shooters at that time.

    The game was well-received, gaining praise for its mission structure and sound design, though it faced criticism for its lower realism levels. Its multiplayer mode allowed for LAN and online play with up to 32 players, alongside co-op support, which replaced the NPC Delta Force Operators.

    In 2016, the Delta Force IP transitioned from NovaLogic to THQ Nordic, and in August 2023, Tencent acquired the rights from THQ Nordic, announcing plans for a reboot of the franchise with a teaser trailer.

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  • Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth Release Date Expected in 2026 for Switch 2

    Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth Release Date Expected in 2026 for Switch 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade will launch on Switch 2 and Xbox Series X|S this winter.
    2. Rumors suggest that Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth may be released shortly after, potentially in 2026.
    3. The director of Rebirth indicated that all remakes are expected on the Nintendo Switch 2, with some needing optimization for smooth performance.
    4. The gameplay dynamics differ, with Rebirth featuring open-world sections, while Intergrade is mainly set in Midgar.
    5. A significant announcement regarding Final Fantasy Remake Part 3 is expected soon, with speculation about a PS5 exclusive launch.

    Gamers are aware that Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is set to come out on the Switch 2 and Xbox Series X|S this winter. However, there are rumors that Square Enix could release the next installment of the remake trilogy, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, shortly after. Reliable leaker NateTheHate2 suggests that the RPG will be available on both platforms in 2026.

    Speculation and Expectations

    NateTheHate2 was replying to comments on Reddit about a possible upcoming Nintendo Direct. It’s likely that Square Enix will showcase Rebirth for the first time, although the main attention will be on Remake Intergrade. Still, the leaker thinks there won’t be a long wait between the releases.

    Technical Considerations

    In May, Naoki Hamaguchi, the director of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, mentioned that all three remakes are expected to be available on the Nintendo handheld. He noted that the enhanced specs of the Nintendo Switch 2 would help developers create a true port. However, Rebirth might need extra optimization to ensure smooth performance.

    Gameplay Dynamics

    Currently available on PS5 and PC, the second part of the Final Fantasy 7 remake series includes open-world sections. In contrast, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade limits gameplay mainly to buildings in Midgar. NateTheHate2 speculates that Square Enix could utilize DLSS upscaling to enhance frame rates.

    An Xbox Series X version of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth should not present a major technical hurdle. However, players of Final Fantasy 16 have noticed some differences between the Xbox and PS5 versions. Frame rates were decent on Xbox, but some players pointed out a lack of detail. Owners of the Xbox Series S might see even greater reductions in quality on that console.

    Future Releases on the Horizon

    Fans might not have to wait too long for a release date for Final Fantasy Remake Part 3. Director Tetsuya Nomura recently hinted that Square Enix could make a significant announcement soon. With indications that the game’s development is progressing well, gamers are looking forward to The Tokyo Game Show on September 25th. Despite its strategy of releasing on multiple platforms, it seems likely that Square Enix will launch the final remake as a PS5 exclusive.

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  • New Action-Adventure RPG Launches on Steam with 400+ Positive Reviews

    New Action-Adventure RPG Launches on Steam with 400+ Positive Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Details: Hell is Us launched globally on September 4, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, priced at $49.99 on Steam.

    2. Unique Gameplay Design: The game emphasizes exploration and storytelling over traditional gameplay mechanics, featuring minimal HUD and no typical guidance like waypoints or quest markers.

    3. Development Team and Inspiration: Developed by Rogue Factor and published by Nacon, the game was led by Jonathan Jacques-Belletête and inspired by the movie Annihilation and Jeff VanderMeer’s Southern Reach Trilogy.

    4. Combat Mechanics: Players control Rémi, utilizing melee weapons and tactical strategies, including a drone named KAPI, while facing supernatural entities called Hollow Walkers in a semi-open world.

    5. Player Engagement Stats: At launch, Hell is Us peaked at approximately 3,984 concurrent players on Steam, highlighting strong initial engagement.

    Hell is Us made its global debut on September 4, 2025, available for PlayStation 5 ($449 on Amazon), Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The game combines exploration, combat, and mature storytelling in a unique way. Created by Rogue Factor and published by Nacon, it’s gaining traction on Steam due to its distinctive setting, minimal HUD, and its choice to not guide players in the usual manners.

    Development Journey

    Nacon announced the project in April 2022, with Jonathan Jacques-Belletête, known for his work on Deus Ex: Human Revolution, at the helm. The game takes inspiration from the movie Annihilation and Jeff VanderMeer’s Southern Reach Trilogy. Hell is Us was crafted with an aim to deliver an “organic” and immersive experience, reducing reliance on traditional waypoints and quest markers. A team of about 55 individuals spent over five years bringing the game to life.

    Gameplay Experience

    In Hell is Us, players step into the role of Rémi, a soldier navigating the war-ravaged fictional land of Hadea. Players encounter supernatural entities known as Hollow Walkers, utilizing various melee weapons and tactical strategies, such as a drone named KAPI for diversions and special moves. Unlike souls-like games, the combat here is designed to present a challenge while emphasizing exploration and storytelling. The semi-open world intentionally lacks hand-holding, urging players to discover objectives through interactions and environmental clues rather than relying on a map or quest log.

    Player Engagement

    Upon its release, Hell is Us achieved a peak of approximately 3,984 concurrent players on Steam, with about 1,555 players active shortly after launch. The game necessitates a 64-bit system and strong hardware specifications. Besides the Standard Edition, a Digital Deluxe Edition was also offered, which included exclusive in-game rewards and up to 48 hours of early access.

    You can grab Hell is Us on the Steam store for $49.99. Don’t miss out on the game trailer below.

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    New Action-Adventure RPG Launches on Steam with 400+ Positive ReviewsNew Action-Adventure RPG Launches on Steam with 400+ Positive Reviews

     

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  • PS5 Price Estimate: Should Be $229 as Console Costs Rise

    PS5 Price Estimate: Should Be $229 as Console Costs Rise

    Key Takeaways

    1. Price hikes for consoles that have been on the market for four years or more, like the PS5, Xbox, and Switch, are surprising and frustrating for consumers.
    2. Historically, console prices typically drop over 50% after three years, but current consoles like the PS5 and Switch remain close to their original prices.
    3. The PS5 Digital’s new price of $500 exceeds the inflation-adjusted launch price, indicating a deviation from traditional pricing trends.
    4. Competing consoles are also facing similar pricing issues, with expected future prices significantly higher than adjusted estimates.
    5. Factors such as component shortages and rising manufacturing costs have kept console prices stable, but buyers continue to purchase them despite the increases.

    Price hikes for consoles that have been around for four years or more are annoying for consumers. The PS5 is the latest to see a $50 bump in price in the U.S. With Xbox and Switch systems also becoming more expensive, an article from Ars Technica talks about how strange these increasing prices are.

    Price Comparisons Over Time

    The article takes a look at price trends of consoles, reaching back to 1977 and adjusting for inflation. Typically, most systems see their prices drop by more than 50% after three years on the market. However, the PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Switch are still almost as pricey, if not more, than when they first launched.

    Surprising Estimates

    While the overall rise in good prices skews the view a bit, the estimates from Ars Technica are quite eye-opening. Following the typical trends, the PS5 Digital should be priced at $229.02, and the PS5 with a disc drive would be around $286.28. Interestingly, the new price of $500 for the digital version is actually higher than the inflation-adjusted launch MSRP of $497.17.

    Competition Doesn’t Fare Better

    PlayStation’s competition isn’t in a better spot either. The original non-OLED Switch is expected to cost about $116.21 in 2025, while the OLED model at $400 is nearly twice the expected price of $216.04.

    Reasons Behind the Price Stability

    Even though tariffs have become a topic of discussion lately, console prices held steady for a number of years during their lifecycles. The lack of earlier price drops can be attributed to component shortages and rising manufacturing costs. The chips that are used in these gaming consoles haven’t become significantly smaller or cheaper either.

    Buyers Still Paying

    In the end, Sony can defend the PS5 price hike as long as customers continue to buy their consoles. The Switch 2 is still at the same price for now, with Nintendo opting to increase the prices of older handhelds and accessories instead. At the same time, Microsoft is shifting its focus away from the Xbox Series X and S. With higher game prices as well, gamers are finding little hope for relief anytime soon.

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  • Xbox Series X and S Sales Below 30 Million, Insider Reports

    Xbox Series X and S Sales Below 30 Million, Insider Reports

    Key Takeaways

    1. Analyst Welfare estimates Xbox Series X and S sales at around 37 million units, while leaker KeplerL2 suggests the number is below 30 million.
    2. AMD’s fiscal report indicates over 100 million current-generation consoles sold, with PS5 sales accounting for 75 million and Steam Deck sales around 4 million, leaving an estimate of 21 million Xbox consoles.
    3. Conflicting sales data from manufacturers and publishers contributes to confusion, with Take-Two Interactive reporting at least 94 million current-gen consoles sold, including around 27 million Xbox units.
    4. VGChartz reports over 32 million Xbox Series X|S consoles sold, indicating a potential middle ground between the conflicting estimates.
    5. The PlayStation continues to lead in console sales, and analysts expect the gap to widen as Xbox struggles in the market.

    Recently, different insiders have provided varying estimates on how many Xbox Series X and S consoles have been sold throughout their lifetime. Analyst Welfare stated that Microsoft has sold roughly 37 million units globally. However, due to a slowdown in sales, some gamers are skeptical about this number. Notably, the well-known leaker KeplerL2 argues that a more precise estimate is actually below 30 million units.

    Conflicting Reports on Sales

    KeplerL2’s claim is based on a fiscal report from AMD for the fourth quarter of 2024, which mentioned that over 100 million current-generation consoles had been sold. The report tracks how many chips are sold for the PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and even the Steam Deck. Earlier in 2025, Sony announced that it had sold just over 75 million PS5 consoles by the end of 2024. By taking 75 million away from the 100 million total and estimating around 4 million Steam Deck sales, it leaves 21 million units sold for Xbox consoles.

    Confusion Among Estimates

    A lot of the misunderstanding comes from conflicting information shared by manufacturers and game publishers. In February 2025, Take-Two Interactive announced that at least 94 million current-gen consoles had been sold by the end of November 2024. The PS5 made up 65.6 million of those sales as of September. If we factor in additional sales up to the end of November, Microsoft could have sold around 27 million Xbox Series X|S consoles.

    KeplerL2 concludes that the most hopeful estimation for Xbox console sales is even lower than Welfare’s 37 million prediction. However, the reality might be somewhere in between the two figures. VGChartz gathers data from various retail sources for its rankings. Its latest report shows that over 32 million Xbox Series X|S consoles have been tracked in sales.

    The Future of Console Sales

    Fans closely follow KeplerL2 due to his leaks about consoles under development, including specifications for the PS6. Because of this, some of his critics believe that analyzing sales might not be his strongest suit. Nevertheless, it is evident that PlayStation’s lead over the struggling Xbox consoles is likely to widen in the coming months.

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    Xbox Series X and S Sales Below 30 Million, Insider ReportsXbox Series X and S Sales Below 30 Million, Insider Reports

     

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  • Frostpunk 2 Console Release Date Leaked: September 18 for Xbox, PS5

    Frostpunk 2 Console Release Date Leaked: September 18 for Xbox, PS5

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date and Platforms: Frostpunk 2 will launch on Xbox Series S|X and PlayStation 5 on September 18, 2025, with availability on Xbox Game Pass from day one.

    2. Pre-Order Editions: Two special pre-order editions are available for Xbox Series: Icebreaker Edition (includes physical copy, artbook, novella, and diorama) and Whiteout Edition (features shadowbox, stickers, postcards, and embroidered patches).

    3. Successful Predecessor: The original Frostpunk game launched on PC in September 2024, receiving high scores (85/100 on Metacritic) and selling 592,000 copies within three days, generating $18.5 million in revenue.

    4. Gameplay and Setting: Set 30 years after the original, Frostpunk 2 challenges players to build a society in a volcanic winter, incorporating morally difficult decisions and new gameplay mechanics like Law Proposals.

    5. Future Content: Players will receive free content updates, with two upcoming DLCs (Aurora and Spectrum) in late 2025, alongside a potential remake titled Frostpunk 1886 using Unreal Engine 5, expected in 2027.

    11 Bit Studios has announced that their sequel to the city-building survival game set in a frozen, post-apocalyptic world, Frostpunk 2, will be available on Xbox Series S|X and PlayStation 5 starting September 18, 2025. This information came to light through a private YouTube trailer that was accidentally released.

    Accidental Leak Sparks Excitement

    The trailer was quickly taken down, but fans managed to find it on social media, keeping the excitement alive. Players are particularly thrilled as Frostpunk 2 will be available on Xbox Game Pass from day one of its release.

    Exciting Pre-Order Options

    For those looking to pre-order the game on Xbox Series, there are two special editions. The Icebreaker Edition will come with a physical copy of Frostpunk 2, an Artbook, a Novella Download Code, and a diorama of New London. The Whiteout Edition features a shadowbox, stickers, two postcards from New London, and a choice of two embroidered patches.

    The original game was a big hit when it launched on PC on September 20, 2024, earning an impressive score of 85/100 on Metacritic and a 97% critic score on OpenCritic. User feedback on PC also shows how well the game did. According to SteamDB, it reached a peak of 37,509 players at once and received 17,129 reviews, with 75% being positive.

    Strong Sales and Engaging Gameplay

    By December 2024, Frostpunk 2 had sold 592,000 copies, bringing in $18.5 million in revenue and covering development costs within just three days after its launch.

    Set 30 years after the first game, Frostpunk 2 puts players in the shoes of the Steward of New London in 1916, where they must build a society powered by petroleum during a volcanic winter. The game incorporates morally challenging decisions, faction politics, and new gameplay mechanics like Law Proposals, enriching its complex political system.

    Future DLCs and Additional Content

    Players on both Xbox and PlayStation will experience the same thrilling gameplay, along with free content updates. Two DLCs, titled Aurora and Spectrum, will arrive in late 2025, along with a third, yet-to-be-announced DLC expected in 2026. The Digital Deluxe Editions will come with all three upcoming DLCs.

    In addition, 11 Bit Studios has hinted at a remake titled Frostpunk 1886, which will utilize Unreal Engine 5 and is set for release in 2027.

    Although the early reveal of the trailer was a blunder on 11 Bit Studios’ part, it has only intensified anticipation for the forthcoming console launch. Gamers are eagerly counting down the days until Frostpunk 2 is available on their platforms. Be sure to mark September on your calendar because New London is ready for you!

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  • Analyst Says Xbox Game Pass Growth Slows Due to PS5 Games

    Analyst Says Xbox Game Pass Growth Slows Due to PS5 Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Michael Pachter initially predicted Xbox Game Pass would reach 200 million subscribers by 2034, but later revised his outlook negatively after Microsoft layoffs and strategy errors.

    2. Microsoft expected over 100 million subscribers by 2030, which made Pachter’s ambitious target increasingly difficult to achieve, especially with only 34 million subscribers reported in 2024.

    3. Phil Spencer acknowledged that the monthly subscription model might not appeal to all Xbox fans, indicating potential issues with subscriber growth.

    4. Pachter criticized Microsoft’s strategy of releasing exclusives on other platforms, arguing it reduces the incentive for gamers to purchase Xbox consoles.

    5. Recent price increases have made Game Pass less attractive, but Pachter suggested targeting mobile gamers by adding popular games to the service to broaden its appeal.

    In April 2024, Michael Pachter made headlines with his prediction about Xbox Game Pass. He believed that the service would gather 200 million subscribers by 2034. However, a little more than a year later, he provided a more negative outlook on his podcast. After significant layoffs at Microsoft, he pointed out several errors by the company that are reducing the attraction of Game Pass.

    Shift in Expectations

    Pachter’s first forecast was more hopeful compared to Microsoft’s own assessment. This information was revealed during legal cases concerning the 2023 Activision Blizzard deal. Microsoft expected to have over 100 million Xbox Game Pass subscribers by 2030. Achieving such growth would already have made it hard to meet Pachter’s ambitious target just four years later.

    Current Subscriber Count

    The last update from Microsoft in 2024 confirmed that there were over 34 million subscribers. Since that time, there have been slight indications of even slower growth. In April 2025, Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, admitted that the monthly subscription model might not suit every Xbox game fan.

    Pachter stated during his podcast that Microsoft still behaves like it has a successful console to back. He believes the Xbox Series X|S was crucial for drawing in Game Pass subscribers. The company has since taken a multi-platform route, releasing previous exclusives for PS5. This shift has lessened the incentive for gamers to buy an Xbox console, especially with PlayStation Plus now available, giving players more options to explore.

    Concerns on Strategy

    Despite some Xbox games leading sales on the PS5, Pachter is not convinced this is a successful approach. He argues that Microsoft might have generated more revenue by keeping titles exclusive to its consoles rather than branching out.

    Furthermore, recent price hikes have made the subscription service seem less appealing. The Pachter Factor commentator did share some ideas for how Xbox could promote Game Pass to a broader audience. One suggestion focuses on mobile gamers, proposing the addition of games like Diablo Immortal and Candy Crush to the lineup.

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  • Battlefield 6 Reveal Date: July 31 at COD Next Style Event

    Battlefield 6 Reveal Date: July 31 at COD Next Style Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Battlefield 6 will be officially revealed on July 31, 2025, with content creators getting early access on July 29 and 30.
    2. Insider information from Tom Henderson suggests strong connections with DICE developers and hints at intense community buzz leading up to the reveal.
    3. The game is expected to feature 64-player matches, four main classes, and a potential free-to-play Battle Royale mode being developed by Ripple Effect.
    4. Anticipated release for Battlefield 6 is around October or November 2025, coinciding with the holiday season.
    5. The Battlefield community has mixed feelings due to the poor reception of Battlefield 2042, with high stakes for DICE to recapture the excitement of earlier titles.

    Battlefield fans are feeling a mix of doubt and thrill as it has been officially announced that Battlefield 6 will be revealed on July 31 during a special event similar to COD Next. Content creators will have the chance to try the game before anyone else on July 29 and 30, behind closed doors, right before the grand reveal on July 31, 2025.

    Insider Information
    This announcement came from Tom Henderson of Insider Gaming, who claims to have connections with the DICE developers. The buzz leading up to the unveiling of Battlefield 6 has been intense, especially after content creators shared news about promotional packages from EA on July 18. These packages are marked with a note saying they should not be opened until July 24. The reveal date of July 31 was hinted at weeks earlier on the r/Battlefield subreddit but was initially dismissed as just a “baseless rumor.”

    Gameplay Features
    The upcoming Battlefield 6 is said to include 64-player matches and will have four main classes: Assault, Engineer, Support, and Recon. There’s also a rumor of a free-to-play Battle Royale mode that’s being developed by Ripple Effect, which aims to rival the success of Call of Duty Warzone.

    Release Expectations
    Battlefield 6 is anticipated to release on Xbox Series S|X, PlayStation 5, and PC around October or November 2025, just in time for the holiday season. Leaked gameplay footage from Battlefield Labs playtests shows a return to classic modern warfare taking place between 2027 and 2030, featuring a private military company clashing with NATO forces.

    Despite the excitement, the Battlefield community has its doubts about the new title. The last game in the series, Battlefield 2042, received mixed reactions, collecting 162,342 negative reviews on Steam and managing only a 24-hour peak of 7,877 players, compared to an all-time high of 107,376 players about 1.8 years ago.

    High Stakes for DICE
    This upcoming reveal is a crucial moment for DICE. It remains to be seen whether the developers can bring back the nostalgia and excitement reminiscent of Battlefield 3 and 4, and if they can make a strong comeback in the competitive first-person shooter market.

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  • Borderlands 4 Map Fully Revealed by Gearbox CEO Before Release

    Borderlands 4 Map Fully Revealed by Gearbox CEO Before Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Randy Pitchford revealed the complete map for Borderlands 4, including 200 hidden Marcus Bobblehead locations, months before the game’s launch.
    2. The game is set in a new expansive world called Kairos, featuring interconnected areas like Beach, RIP Tunnels, Crater, and Order of Hell.
    3. New gameplay mechanics include advanced movement abilities such as gliding, dashing, grappling, and double-jumping for enhanced exploration.
    4. The 200 Marcus Bobbleheads will contribute to an in-universe story, with a backstory involving a crate thrown from the moon of Elipse.
    5. Borderlands 4 is available for pre-order at various price points, with a global release date set for September 12, 2025, for Xbox Series S|X, PlayStation 5, and PC.

    In a rather unexpected turn of events, Gearbox’s CEO, Randy Pitchford, has disclosed the complete map for Borderlands 4, including the precise locations of 200 hidden Marcus Bobblehead collectibles. This announcement arrives several months prior to the game’s official launch.

    Insights on Development

    On a comprehensive X thread on Twitter, Randy Pitchford provided valuable details regarding the development process of Borderlands 4 along with a full map screenshot. The map highlights essential areas such as Beach, RIP Tunnels, Crater, and Order of Hell.

    The setting for Borderlands 4 takes place in the new world known as Kairos, which is said to be one of the most expansive and interconnected universes in the history of the IP. Pitchford emphasized that the development team worked hard to construct a vast world that is “completely filled.”

    New Gameplay Mechanics

    In addition, the game will feature advanced movement abilities such as gliding, dashing, grappling, and double-jumping, allowing players to explore every nook and cranny of Kairos. Pitchford mentioned that the 200 Marcus Bobbleheads are more than just simple collectibles; they will subtly narrate an in-universe story. He explained:

    “Someone on the moon of Elipse had a crate, bought from their local vendor. And, in the cataclysm, the crate, still full of collectibles, was hurled towards Kairos. It broke apart and scattered the 200 or so of these things all over the place.”

    Challenge for Completionists

    Pitchford openly dared completionists, saying, “Most players will never see any of them and only a very, very small number of people will explore Kairos so completely that they might discover them all.”

    This decision to unveil the Borderlands 4 map and all in-game collectibles is quite unusual, given that collectibles are typically meant for players to find on their own.

    Borderlands 4 is available for pre-order at a price of $69.99, reduced from the previously announced $80. Players can also opt for the deluxe and super deluxe editions, which are priced at $99.99 and $129.99, respectively.

    The game is scheduled for global release on September 12, 2025, and will be available on Xbox Series S|X, PlayStation 5, and PC.

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  • Final Fantasy 16 Xbox Sales Decline After Game Pass Omission

    Final Fantasy 16 Xbox Sales Decline After Game Pass Omission

    Key Takeaways

    1. Final Fantasy 16 is now available on Xbox, but its launch was not heavily promoted, leading to low traction on Xbox Series X|S.
    2. The game ranks between the 350th and 400th spots for most-played games on Xbox, despite the Standard and Complete Editions performing better in sales.
    3. Community theories suggest the late Xbox release, competition from PC sales, and absence from Xbox Game Pass may contribute to its underwhelming performance.
    4. Final Fantasy 16 also struggled on PS5, with sales declining after an initial strong start, raising questions about JRPG success on Xbox.
    5. Microsoft is shifting focus towards multi-platform publishing and new handheld Windows devices, which may result in fewer Xbox-exclusive releases in the future.

    At a recent event, Microsoft revealed that the Xbox version of Final Fantasy 16 is now available. Square Enix has been making its games accessible on various platforms, but the RPG’s launch on Xbox was not heavily promoted. Two years after its release on PS5, the game is struggling to gain traction on Xbox Series X|S. In fact, it is ranking unexpectedly low on Microsoft’s lists for most-played and top-paid games.

    Game Rankings and Performance

    The situation is fluid, with data that changes regularly. Currently, Final Fantasy 16’s Xbox port sits between the 350th and 400th spots for most-played games. However, the news is a bit brighter in terms of sales; the Standard Edition is within the top 50, and the Complete Edition is in the top 30. Still, many gamers believe that the game’s performance is underwhelming for a title from a well-known company like Square Enix.

    Community Theories

    On the ResetEra forums, critics have been sharing their thoughts on why Final Fantasy 16 is struggling to attract a big audience on Xbox. One reason could be that it was a late release for a game that has been available for PS5 players since 2023 and for PC players since 2024. Many Xbox users also play on PCs due to Play Anywhere, which means some may have already bought the RPG on Steam or the Epic Games Store. Another notable point is that the absence of Final Fantasy 16 from Xbox Game Pass might be affecting player numbers.

    Broader Context

    To be fair to Microsoft, Final Fantasy 16 didn’t perform as expected on PS5 either. The publisher acknowledged that sales declined after a strong start, especially when compared to other titles from Square Enix. Other Final Fantasy games, despite being more popular on Nintendo and PlayStation, have drawn in more players on Xbox. The idea that JRPGs can’t succeed on Xbox is now being questioned. While players are divided on its subgenres, the popular game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 clearly incorporates JRPG elements.

    Microsoft is now focusing more on publishing across multiple platforms and on new handheld Windows devices. This shift may lead to fewer Xbox Series X|S-exclusive releases in the near future.

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