Tag: Xbox

  • AMD Engineer Confirms New Xbox Hardware in Development

    AMD Engineer Confirms New Xbox Hardware in Development

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft reaffirms its commitment to developing future first-party Xbox consoles despite cancellation rumors.
    2. AMD is collaborating with Microsoft on the Magnus APU, which may influence the design of upcoming Xbox devices.
    3. Future Xbox hardware could be a PC-console hybrid running Windows 11, similar to the Asus ROG Xbox Ally handheld.
    4. Market excitement for the new console may be low, especially without exclusive titles to draw gamers away from competitors.
    5. Microsoft may not produce a single new Xbox system in large volumes, focusing on adaptable hardware instead.

    A new report about the possible cancellation of the next-gen Xbox console has led Microsoft to clarify its position. The company emphasized its ongoing commitment to creating future first-party consoles under the Xbox brand. Additionally, a recent leak from an AMD engineer regarding the progress of the Magnus APU development might provide some comfort to gamers. However, it is still unclear if any device that uses this chip will look like a traditional console.

    AMD’s Insights

    This latest information comes from a video by Moore’s Law is Dead, featuring insights from an AMD source. The engineer stated that AMD is still collaborating with Microsoft on hardware that incorporates the Magnus APU. There are rumors suggesting that due to existing agreements with AMD, it would be too expensive for Microsoft to back out of launching a new Xbox console at this stage.

    The Future of Xbox

    The exact appearance of Xbox devices using this chip remains uncertain. The AMD employee mentioned that the hardware was initially referred to as an “Xbox project.” However, it might evolve into a PC-console hybrid that operates on Windows 11 or a newer operating system. Similar to the Asus ROG Xbox Ally handheld, it would support Game Pass and a vast library of games.

    The Magnus APU features Zen 6 CPU cores and RDNA 5 GPU architecture. Its modular design means that various manufacturers and different device types could utilize this adaptable chip. Microsoft might choose to create a product that resembles a PC as much as it does a Series X or S.

    Market Concerns

    Even with better gaming performance, the console market may not be excited about this development. Microsoft is optimistic that its redesigned full-screen UI will enhance navigation on Windows devices for gaming. Nonetheless, the experience might not be as seamless as that found in Xbox Series X menus. Additionally, without exclusive titles, the next-gen Xbox could offer less motivation for gamers to choose it over a PlayStation 6.

    It is clear that Microsoft has not abandoned its ambitions for gaming hardware in some capacity. However, Moore’s Law is Dead speculates that the company might not produce a single system in large volumes.

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  • Xbox’s Silent Hill F Ad Reveals Buyers Don’t Own Games with DRM

    Xbox’s Silent Hill F Ad Reveals Buyers Don’t Own Games with DRM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Players only hold licenses for digital games, meaning they may lose access if publishers or platforms decide to remove them.
    2. A new California law requires clearer communication about digital ownership, prompting Microsoft to adjust its messaging for all regions.
    3. Digital rights management (DRM) can make games unplayable without notice, raising concerns about the preservation of physical games.
    4. Subscription services like Xbox Game Pass frequently change available titles, leaving players uncertain about long-term access.
    5. Disclaimers about digital ownership are becoming more common, with platforms like Steam highlighting that buyers obtain licenses rather than ownership.

    As digital gaming continues to grow, it’s becoming clearer to players that they only hold licenses to their games. If publishers or platforms decide to take away access, owners may lose their ability to play these titles. Recently, Xbox has not highlighted this issue as much as it should. A new notice under Silent Hill f has gamers questioning why Microsoft has changed its communication.

    Understanding the Change

    With Silent Hill f, buyers now clearly see that “buying or purchasing any digital products is a license.” Many Reddit users think this shift is due to a California law that was enacted in 2024. This law requires marketplaces to clarify that users have permission to access a digital game, but do not own it. It also stops the use of terms like “buy” or “purchase” unless a disclaimer is included.

    Wider Implications

    Rather than limiting this message to just California customers, Microsoft seems to find it easier to apply the text across all regions. However, this move is unlikely to satisfy those who advocate for the preservation of physical games. Titles that utilize DRM need servers for verification, which can lead to them becoming unplayable without any prior notice. Subscription services like Game Pass bring additional worries too.

    The Subscription Landscape

    Currently, this issue does not concern Silent Hill f, but Microsoft frequently adds and removes games from Xbox Game Pass, often with as little as two weeks’ notice. Players may invest considerable bandwidth and storage into games without knowing how long they will be accessible. Recent price hikes for Xbox services also indicate that the cost for continued access can increase significantly.

    Comparing Subscription Models

    Other subscription services, like PlayStation Plus, have some variations. Members of the Essential tier can enjoy their complimentary monthly games or re-download them later as long as their membership is active.

    The Bigger Picture

    Attentive gamers might have already spotted disclaimers similar to the one associated with Silent Hill f. For quite a while, the Steam checkout process has let buyers know they are merely obtaining a license. While Valve allows players to access even delisted games, there are still factors to consider. A number of games may not work without the servers controlled by the publisher. This reality has led many buyers to explore GOG as an option for DRM-free games.

    Xbox subreddit, Polygon

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  • Walmart Xbox & Switch 2 Games as Console Appeal Declines

    Walmart Xbox & Switch 2 Games as Console Appeal Declines

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retailers like Walmart are reducing the visibility of Xbox consoles and games in favor of Switch 2 titles, reflecting a shift in consumer interest.
    2. Customers have observed that Xbox games are being moved to lower shelves, while titles for new systems are taking prime display space.
    3. The holiday season outlook for Xbox is bleak, with its exclusion from Walmart’s Christmas catalog and significant discounts on consoles at Sam’s Club.
    4. Competing retailers like Costco are also eliminating Xbox products, indicating a broader trend away from Microsoft’s gaming offerings.
    5. Despite concerns over Xbox’s future and recent price hikes, Microsoft maintains that it is not halting production of the Series X|S and continues to pursue its hardware ambitions.

    After various price hikes for Xbox, a number of retailers have started to phase out Microsoft’s consoles and games. Walmart, a leading retailer in the U.S., has been changing its Xbox displays to highlight Switch 2 games instead. While the situation varies depending on the location, customers are noticing a decline in Xbox’s visibility.

    Surprising Changes in Stores

    Recently, The Gaming Dude posted an eye-opening photo on social media. Titles for Switch 2, such as Mario Kart World and Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, are now occupying spaces where Xbox games used to be prominently displayed. These new games are now crammed together on the lower shelves of the Walmart case. While Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 is still accessible on both platforms, players find the contrast of red and green colors to be quite unsettling.

    The Bigger Picture

    It’s hard to tell exactly how many stores are pushing Xbox to the sidelines in their entertainment sections. However, shoppers have shared similar observations from different parts of the U.S. One customer mentioned that movies seem to be taking precedence in at least one store. Meanwhile, overseas, some shops are opting to showcase different electronics rather than Xbox titles.

    Holiday Outlook and Discounts

    The upcoming holiday season isn’t looking much better for Xbox, as it has been excluded from Walmart’s Christmas catalog. Sam’s Club, which is part of the same company, appears eager to eliminate any Microsoft Gaming items. Even after a price rise for the Series X and S, the warehouse chain is providing significant discounts on these consoles. Its rival, Costco, has also declared that it will no longer carry the gaming systems. For now, Microsoft may have to depend on the Asus ROG Xbox Ally to attract customers looking for new devices.

    With the Game Pass subscription costing $29.99 for its Ultimate tier, there’s less motivation for gamers to stick with the brand. Nevertheless, Microsoft has not announced any halt in production of the Xbox Series X|S. As mentioned by Pure Xbox, the company responded to recent rumors regarding the cancellation of future Xbox consoles. They assert that they haven’t given up on their hardware ambitions, but many remain doubtful.

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  • New Xbox Consoles in Doubt After Price Hikes Spark Criticism

    New Xbox Consoles in Doubt After Price Hikes Spark Criticism

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is reconsidering its future direction, potentially shifting towards becoming a multi-platform publisher rather than focusing solely on Xbox hardware.

    2. A leaked email from Xbox President Sarah Bond raised hopes for new hardware, including a possible successor to the Series X and an Xbox handheld.

    3. Despite partnership hints with AMD for new consoles, plans for actual hardware may be abandoned, with a focus on Xbox Game Pass and cloud gaming instead.

    4. Retail concerns are growing, as Costco has stopped carrying Xbox hardware, and price increases on older consoles make consumers skeptical about their value.

    5. There are doubts about the reliability of insider information, but past executive comments suggest that without exclusive games, new Xbox consoles may lack purpose.

    Despite a decline in enthusiasm for its hardware, Microsoft has maintained that new consoles are on the horizon. However, an insider has suggested that the company might be reconsidering its future direction. SneakersSO has predicted a shift for Microsoft towards becoming a multi-platform publisher. Following yet another price hike for the Series X|S, he asserts that retailers are beginning to lose faith in Xbox consoles.

    Changing Plans

    On NeoGAF forums, SneakersSO shared that “all of a sudden, the once clear plans for actual MS Xbox hardware became uncertain.” A leaked email from Xbox President Sarah Bond in 2024 had raised hopes for a successor to the Series X. The “next-generation hardware” Bond mentioned might include not just a new console but also an Xbox handheld, alongside the Asus-made ROG Xbox Ally.

    New Directions

    When Microsoft formed a partnership with AMD in June, it hinted that a new Xbox console was on the way. However, SneakersSO believes the company has decided to abandon previously made plans. Gamers might still see Microsoft collaborating with third-party gaming systems, but the primary focus will shift towards publishing on other consoles, Xbox Game Pass, and cloud gaming services.

    Market Concerns

    The leaker interprets Costco’s decision to stop carrying Xbox hardware as more than just a minor issue. With five-year-old consoles seeing price increases, consumers find it hard to see the value in these systems. Likewise, discount retailers may be reluctant to stock the pricier new consoles. While there’s no sign that Sony has postponed the PS6, tariff issues could complicate efforts to draw in buyers.

    Skepticism Remains

    Although SneakersSO has a somewhat limited reliability record, there is room for doubt. Still, if he’s right, Microsoft could be taking cues from former executives. Laura Fryer, a past employee, was among those who declared Xbox hardware obsolete, arguing that without exclusive games, a new console wouldn’t have much purpose. The acquisition of Activision Blizzard also signaled a shift in priorities for the company.

    NeoGAF forums, Xbox YouTube

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  • Xbox Consoles Declared Dead by Ex-Microsoft Executive After PS5 Success

    Xbox Consoles Declared Dead by Ex-Microsoft Executive After PS5 Success

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox hardware sales are declining, with some retailers ceasing to stock consoles amid price hikes and a lack of exclusive titles.
    2. Mike Ybarra criticized Microsoft’s strategy and labeled Xbox consoles as “dead,” while praising Sony’s successful PS5 sales.
    3. Retailers are responding to market challenges by reducing prices to clear Xbox inventory, despite Microsoft’s price increases.
    4. Ybarra suggests Microsoft may need to shift focus to multi-platform publishing rather than solely relying on Xbox consoles.
    5. The future of Xbox Series X|S remains uncertain, but supporters highlight its extensive game library and ongoing first-party title releases.

    The outlook for current Xbox hardware isn’t looking good, as some stores have begun to stop selling the consoles. With another price hike and a lack of exclusive titles, it’s increasingly challenging to attract customers. Mike Ybarra, the former president of Blizzard, has been vocal about Microsoft’s puzzling strategic choices. His claim that Xbox consoles are “dead” may be the most severe thing he has said so far.

    Ybarra’s Comments on PS5 Success

    Ybarra made his remarks after praising Sony for achieving another notable milestone in PS5 sales. At $136 billion, Sony executive Hideaki Nishino celebrated this generation of PlayStation as the most triumphant one yet. Ybarra added sarcastically, “But hey, the console market isn’t a successful business. It is if you do it right.”

    Retailer Actions and Responses

    A reader who feels Ybarra is biased prompted him to respond, “Your console is dead.” Although Microsoft hasn’t declared an end to the Xbox Series X or Series S, some Costco locations have recently stopped stocking these consoles. In spite of the price increases, other retailers are slashing prices to clear out their inventory.

    Shifting Focus and Market Challenges

    Ybarra has suggested that Microsoft might want to pivot towards multi-platform publishing instead of concentrating solely on Xbox consoles. He aligns with other market analysts who find the “This is an Xbox” campaign to be confusing. There are doubts among critics regarding whether traditional console gamers will take to smart TVs or Windows 11 handhelds, like the ROG Xbox Ally.

    Price Increases and Gamers’ Opinions

    The former Blizzard president also has strong opinions about the recent price hikes for Xbox. He believes these increases stem from Microsoft’s inability to make a profit on hardware sales. Like his previous comment about Xbox consoles being “dead,” many gamers disagree with this view. Microsoft, similar to Sony, has pointed to tough economic conditions as the reason for the higher MSRPs.

    The Future of Xbox Series X|S

    Only time will reveal how much longer the Xbox Series X|S will be available for purchase. Supporters are eager to highlight that the consoles still have a vast library of games. Microsoft continues to roll out first-party titles for the platform. Sony might also consider bringing more previously exclusive PlayStation games, apart from Helldivers 2, to its struggling competitor.

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  • Forza Horizon 6 Confirmed for Japan, Set to Release in 2026

    Forza Horizon 6 Confirmed for Japan, Set to Release in 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Forza Horizon 6 is officially unveiled, featuring a logo with Mt. Fuji and set in Japan, scheduled for release in 2026.
    2. The announcement follows months of rumors and leaks about the game’s Japanese setting and vehicle lineup.
    3. Fans are excited about Japan’s vibrant streets and scenic roads, but gameplay details and map organization are still unknown.
    4. Xbox will present at the Tokyo Game Show on September 25, where a full trailer is expected.
    5. Players are encouraged to add Forza Horizon 6 to their wishlist on Xbox and PC.

    Forza Horizon 6 has now moved past the stage of mere speculation. The game was officially unveiled on the @forzahorizonofficial Instagram account, showcasing the Horizon 6 logo with the stunning backdrop of Mt. Fuji. The promotional materials, which seem to have been released earlier than planned, confirm that the game will be set in Japan and is scheduled for a release in 2026. The brief video encourages fans to add the game to their wishlist on both Xbox and PC.

    Leaks and Revelations

    This announcement comes after many months of rumors and leaks suggesting that Japan would be the game’s setting. Earlier this year, an Australian car importer posted – then quickly removed – photos of a Playground Games developer working on scanning a Japanese kei car, hinting at a new Japanese vehicle lineup. Additionally, Windows Central reported earlier about a reveal linked to the Tokyo Game Show, based on internal documents. Today’s confirmed post supports these previous leaks, providing the first official insights.

    Fan Expectations

    Many fans of Forza have been eager for Japan to be featured as a location in the Horizon series, owing to its vibrant city streets, picturesque coastal roads, and twisty mountain paths (which are famous for drifting). However, aside from the setting and the projected release date, Playground Games has yet to unveil any gameplay specifics or how they plan to organize the map.

    Upcoming Events

    Xbox is set to make an appearance at the Tokyo Game Show on September 25, where a full trailer is anticipated to be revealed. Until then, the spotlight remains on what new elements Horizon 6 may bring from earlier versions.

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  • Xbox Unites Steam, GOG, and Epic Games in Major PC Update

    Xbox Unites Steam, GOG, and Epic Games in Major PC Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unified Gaming Experience: The Xbox app now integrates games from Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, and Xbox Game Pass into a single library.

    2. Quick Access and Customization: A new “My Apps” tab allows users to quickly access third-party stores and customize which games appear in their library.

    3. Enhanced Cloud Streaming: The cloud streaming feature now supports resolutions up to 1440p, with improved bitrates, enhancing the gaming experience.

    4. Cross-Device Play History: Gamers can track their play history across Xbox consoles, PCs, and handheld devices, making it easier to continue progress on different platforms.

    5. Gradual Rollout: This update follows prior enhancements and is part of a broader strategy to improve the Xbox gaming experience on PC, leading to a wider release for all users.

    Xbox has rolled out a significant update for its Windows PC app, representing the largest change in its strategy for PC gaming so far. This update, which started on Tuesday, turns the Xbox app into a comprehensive gaming hub that unites titles from Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, and other key PC marketplaces along with Xbox Game Pass games.

    Unified Gaming Experience

    This new integrated library automatically identifies games installed from compatible PC stores and showcases them in the Xbox app’s “My Library” section and “Most Recent” list. This means players no longer have to jump between various launchers to access their games.

    Quick Access and Customization

    The update has also added a new “My Apps” tab, allowing quick access to third-party stores and applications. Users can filter which games they want to see in their library, giving them the ability to turn off certain storefronts that they don’t wish to integrate with their Xbox library.

    Enhanced Cloud Streaming

    Another exciting feature is the upgraded cloud streaming, which now supports resolutions up to 1440p. This is a big leap from the earlier 1080p limit, with better bitrates hitting up to 27 Mbps for supported games. Currently, this testing phase is restricted to selected users and specific titles, such as Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora.

    Cross-Device Play History

    In addition, the update brings cross-device play history, allowing cloud-playable games to show up in play history across Xbox consoles, PCs, and handhelds. This feature, which first appeared for Xbox Insiders in July, makes it easy for gamers to continue their progress when switching between different platforms.

    Gradual Rollout

    Up until now, the August update provided cross-device play history and enhanced controller navigation, while June introduced the first tests of library aggregation features with Xbox Insiders. These ongoing enhancements led to the wide release on Tuesday for all users.

    Upcoming Handheld Devices

    This update coincides with Microsoft’s gearing up for the new ROG Xbox Ally handheld devices, where these unified gaming features will first be available as part of a complete Xbox experience tailored for portable gaming.

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  • Forza Horizon 6 to Debut at Tokyo Game Show 2025 with Japanese Cars

    Forza Horizon 6 to Debut at Tokyo Game Show 2025 with Japanese Cars

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox will host a livestream during the Tokyo Game Show 2025 on September 25 at 7 PM JST, showcasing titles and updates from its creative teams and global partners.
    2. Limited information is available regarding the livestream’s duration and specific games to be presented, leading to speculation about the reveal of Forza Horizon 6.
    3. Rumors suggest that Forza Horizon 6 may be set in Japan, a desired open-world environment for fans, supported by past game features and a recent deleted Instagram post hinting at a Japanese Kei car.
    4. Xbox’s announcement emphasizes a commitment to showcasing Japan-inspired content and connecting with global players, fueling further speculation about Forza Horizon 6.
    5. Industry insiders and reports indicate that Forza Horizon 6 might be officially announced during TGS 2025, with potential release in 2026 to coincide with Xbox’s 25th anniversary.

    Microsoft has made it official that Xbox will host its own livestream during the Tokyo Game Show 2025, which is set to take place on Thursday, September 25, at 7 PM JST. In a post on Xbox Wire, Xbox shared some details about the event, promising to “showcase titles from our creative teams, along with thrilling updates from our partners in Japan, Asia, and around the globe.”

    Uncertain Details About the Stream

    Despite this announcement, there is limited information about how long the livestream will be and which games will be presented during Xbox’s panel at the Tokyo Game Show. Speculation is growing, however, regarding the much-anticipated reveal of Forza Horizon 6.

    For several years, there have been whispers that the next Forza Horizon installment will take place in Japan, an open-world environment that fans have long desired from Playground Games. Japan has been featured in earlier games, boasting several race tracks for enthusiasts, including the fictional Fujimi Kaido mountain pass and the more realistic Suzuka Circuit and Tsukuba Circuit.

    Hype Around Forza Horizon 6

    Interest in Forza Horizon 6 began to spike after an Instagram post by Australian car dealer Cult and Classic was deleted. The post suggested that Playground Games developers had been taking photos of a Japanese Kei car, a small vehicle unique to Japan’s JDM scene.

    This leak only added fuel to the fire of rumors suggesting that Forza Horizon 6 would indeed be set in Japan. This makes a lot of sense given the country’s deep-rooted underground street racing culture, especially with the famous Midnight Club on the Wangan highway.

    While the appearance of a Kei car doesn’t definitively confirm a Japanese setting, it hints at the possible inclusion of Kei cars from manufacturers like Daihatsu, Honda, Suzuki, Toyota, or Subaru, which could populate the vehicle roster in the anticipated game.

    Speculation Grows

    Moreover, Xbox’s announcement provides some backing to these rumors, as the company mentioned, “We understand players worldwide enjoy Japan-inspired content games developed in Asia, and we are eager to connect with players globally to showcase the amazing talent and creativity involved in upcoming games for Xbox.”

    Adding to the speculation, Windows Central reported that they have seen documents suggesting that Forza Horizon 6 will be announced during this year’s Tokyo Game Show.

    This assertion was backed up by industry insiders like NateTheHate and Tom Henderson, enhancing the credibility of the claim about Forza Horizon 6’s reveal at TGS 2025. Still, Microsoft and Playground Games have not yet confirmed the game’s setting or made an official announcement.

    It’s worth mentioning that Xbox Gaming CEO, Phil Spencer, indicated that the next Forza could be released in 2026 to celebrate Xbox’s 25th anniversary during the Xbox Games Showcase on June 8, 2025.

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  • Helldivers 2 Sells Nearly 1 Million Units on Xbox in 6 Days

    Helldivers 2 Sells Nearly 1 Million Units on Xbox in 6 Days

    Key Takeaways

    1. Helldivers 2 is the first PlayStation exclusive to launch on Xbox, marking a significant shift in the gaming industry.
    2. The game sold 926,000 units on Xbox in its first six days, surpassing its PlayStation sales of 633,000 copies by nearly 50%.
    3. Helldivers 2 topped Xbox’s paid games list, with the Standard Edition at number one and the Super Citizen Edition at number three.
    4. The game achieved a peak of 500,690 concurrent players across all platforms, with Steam recording 167,795 concurrent players.
    5. Collaborations, like the Helldivers 2 x Halo: ODST Legendary Warbond, contributed to its success, with analysts projecting total sales of over 18 million copies across all platforms.

    Arrowhead Game Studio’s Helldivers 2 has made its debut on Xbox, breaking new ground as the first PlayStation exclusive to launch on Microsoft’s console. In a surprising development, this title has actually outsold its initial PlayStation release, as reported by an analytics firm that monitored sales in the first six days.

    Impressive Sales Figures

    The Alinea Analytics Insight Newsletter recently revealed that Helldivers 2 sold 926,000 units on Xbox in the first six days after its launch on August 26, 2025. This figure surpasses the 633,000 copies sold on PlayStation 5 following its release on February 8, 2024, marking an astonishing increase of nearly 50% in sales on the Xbox platform.

    A Historic Launch

    This achievement is particularly noteworthy, especially since it comes a year and a half after the game first hit PS5 and PC. The Xbox release signifies a pivotal moment in the gaming industry, with PlayStation and Xbox now exchanging first-party titles. For comparison, Gears of War: Reloaded also launched on PlayStation but only managed to sell 259,000 copies in the same timeframe, highlighting Helldivers 2’s superior performance.

    Dominating the Charts

    Helldivers 2 quickly ascended to the top of Xbox’s paid games list, with the Standard Edition clinching the number one position and the Super Citizen Edition taking third place, right next to popular games like NBA 2K26 and EA Sports Madden NFL 26.

    On top of that, the game achieved an impressive peak of 500,690 concurrent players across all platforms after its Xbox release, with Steam recording 167,795 concurrent players — the highest in the game’s history.

    Unique Collaborations Boost Success

    A significant factor contributing to the game’s success on Xbox is the Helldivers 2 x Halo: ODST Legendary Warbond, which was introduced alongside the Xbox launch. Arrowhead CEO Johan Pilestedt acknowledged Sony’s crucial role in the game’s port, stating that they should “send their thanks to Sony since the port was ‘all PlayStation.’”

    Helldivers 2 has proven to be a powerhouse in the gaming sphere since its launch. Analysts are projecting that the game has sold over 18 million copies, with 12 million on PC, 5 million on PS5, and nearly 1 million on Xbox.

    In its first 12 weeks of availability on both PS5 and PC, the game sold an enormous 12 million copies, making it PlayStation’s fastest-selling game ever, even outpacing the record set by God of War: Ragnarok.

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  • New Xbox Special Edition Controllers Leaked, Preorders in September

    New Xbox Special Edition Controllers Leaked, Preorders in September

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox is launching a new “Breaker” series of special-edition gamepads with three models: Heartbreaker, Stormbreaker, and Icebreaker.
    2. Each gamepad will be priced at 79.99 euros/dollars and 74.99 pounds, with a global release scheduled for September 9 and preorders starting around September 3.
    3. The designs feature unique patterns, with Heartbreaker in vibrant colors, Stormbreaker in a sleek mix of white and grey, and Icebreaker in deep blue and turquoise.
    4. The controllers will be available at major retailers like the Microsoft Store, Amazon, Fnac, and Micromania, with pricing similar to recent limited editions.
    5. An official announcement is expected in the first week of September, and early preorders are recommended to avoid price increases.

    Xbox is rumored to be launching a new series of special-edition gamepads called the “Breaker” series, with three models expected in early September. This information comes from a leak shared by @billbil-kun on Dealabs Magazine. The series will feature three variants: Heartbreaker, Stormbreaker, and Icebreaker. Each model is expected to be priced at 79.99 euros or dollars and 74.99 pounds. The global release is set for September 9, with preorders starting around September 3.

    Unique Designs

    The design for these gamepads is said to embrace stylish, glass-like or leaf-like patterns, moving away from standard solid colors. The Heartbreaker variant showcases vibrant purples and pinks along with turquoise highlights. Meanwhile, Stormbreaker features a sleek mix of white, grey, and black, similar to the Arctic Camo design. Lastly, Icebreaker presents a gradient of deep blue and turquoise. According to sources, there’s also a possibility that the Breaker series could be customizable through Xbox Design Lab.

    Retail Availability

    The leak emphasizes that these controllers will be available through regular retail channels such as the Microsoft Store and major partners like Amazon, Fnac, and Micromania, similar to past special editions. Pricing will align with other recent limited controllers, which tend to be slightly higher than standard colors but lower than premium options like the Elite Series 2 Core, which currently retails for $154 on Amazon.

    Anticipated Release

    Although the source did not provide final images due to legal constraints, the new color schemes give a clear idea of what to expect from the controllers. It’s likely that the materials and finishes will be consistent with previous special-edition controllers, reflecting Xbox’s ongoing manufacturing standards.

    If this leak is accurate, we should anticipate an official announcement in the first week of September, followed closely by preorders and the actual release on September 9. As with any limited editions, it’s wise to place early orders to steer clear of price hikes after launch.

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