exclusivity

Winsage
July 22, 2025
Microsoft has introduced new Copilot+ experiences for AMD and Intel-powered PCs through recent Windows Insider Builds. The "describe image" action in Click to Do has been made available to these users starting with build 26200.5710, after previously being accessible only to Snapdragon X-powered devices. This feature provides detailed descriptions of images, charts, and graphs to enhance accessibility, particularly for blind and low-vision users. The Narrator tool has also been improved to generate rich descriptions of visual content. Users can activate this feature by pressing the Narrator key + Ctrl + D. Additionally, Microsoft is collecting logs to address performance issues and has updated the lock screen widget experience for Windows Insiders. A new section in Settings allows users to see which third-party applications have recently used generative AI models. There is a noted disparity in feature rollout between Snapdragon X and AMD/Intel-powered PCs, with Snapdragon devices receiving updates first.
AppWizard
July 16, 2025
The Xbox app is shifting to a streaming-centric model, allowing Xbox Insiders who are Game Pass Ultimate members to stream select console games they own in 28 countries where Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) operates. This 'stream your own game' service enables gamers to play titles without owning an Xbox console by accessing their personal game library through the Cloud Gaming section of the Xbox PC app. This development reduces platform exclusivity in gaming and may lead to a more unified gaming ecosystem.
AppWizard
July 3, 2025
Simon Collins-Laflamme, founder of Hytale and Hypixel Studios, is attempting to reacquire the canceled adventure game from Riot Games. He is concerned that this venture could complicate his life in the short term. Collins-Laflamme is gauging community interest in the project, stating that negative feedback would lead him to reconsider pursuing it. He also noted the technical limitations of Hytale's legacy engine, which is currently exclusive to PC and not suitable for cross-platform play. Eric Barone, creator of Stardew Valley, expressed openness to engaging with Hytale's revival if opportunities arise.
AppWizard
July 2, 2025
Randy Pitchford, the leader of Gearbox Software, is actively engaging with the gaming community on X (formerly Twitter) regarding the pre-order strategy for Borderlands 4. On June 28, he invited fans to provide input on whether they would pre-order the game on their preferred platform to influence exclusivity decisions, offering options for "Yes, Steam," "Yes, Epic," "No, Steam," or "No, Epic." This initiative reflects a trend in the gaming industry where developers seek community feedback to shape their products.
AppWizard
June 30, 2025
Randy Pitchford, head of Gearbox, is considering allowing players to influence platform exclusivity decisions for Borderlands 4 through pre-orders. He shared insights on potential exclusive content between the Epic Game Store and Steam, asking fans if they would pre-order to impact these decisions. A poll indicated that 91% of respondents preferred Steam over Epic. Additionally, Gearbox is re-evaluating weapon mechanics in Borderlands 4 to enhance gameplay and provide more surprises for players.
AppWizard
June 26, 2025
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach has launched as a PlayStation 5 exclusive, with no current plans for a PC or Xbox version, nor availability on Game Pass. A PC port may be possible several months after launch, similar to the original game's release timeline. An Xbox release at launch is not feasible, and while a future release on Xbox is possible, it is unlikely soon. Any potential inclusion on Game Pass would depend on third-party publishing agreements after the exclusivity period. Future licensing agreements, market demand, and technical adaptations could influence broader availability.
AppWizard
June 17, 2025
Stellar Blade achieved sales of one million copies within three days of its PC launch, contributing to total sales of 3 million since its release in April 2024, a 50% increase. Approximately 58% of sales occurred in China, where the game is priced lower than in the U.S. The game reached a peak concurrent player count of over 190,000 and received a 92% rating on Steam and an 86 score on Metacritic. SHIFTUP plans further updates and is considering a sequel for 2027, with no current plans to bring the game to Xbox. Sony is focusing on releasing major AAA titles on PC, while multiplayer games are launched simultaneously on PC.
AppWizard
June 13, 2025
Stellar Blade has achieved a peak of 183,830 concurrent players on Steam, setting a new record for former PlayStation exclusives and more than doubling the previous record of 77,154 players held by Ghost of Tsushima. The game sold 1 million copies within its first month of release and is currently the #1 seller on Steam. A sequel is confirmed with a tentative release date set for 2027.
AppWizard
June 12, 2025
Stellar Blade is transitioning from PlayStation exclusivity to launch on PC, scheduled for June 11-12, 2025, with specific release times for various locations. The game initially released on PS5 on April 26, 2024, and has sold over a million units in its first month. It features updates that enhance gameplay and introduce new costumes for the protagonist, Eve, who has sparked discussions about female representation in gaming. The game draws inspiration from titles like Devil May Cry and Bayonetta, offering a robust single-player campaign and a New Game Plus mode.
AppWizard
June 4, 2025
Netmarble announced that its upcoming title, Mongil: Star Dive, will be released exclusively on the Epic Games Store for PC as part of the Epic First Run program. A mobile version will also be available through the Epic Games Store's mobile app. The game features voiceovers in Korean, Japanese, and English, with subtitles in multiple languages.
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