Xbox Consoles

AppWizard
February 15, 2025
Avowed will be available on Xbox Game Pass at no additional cost for both Xbox and PC players who subscribe to the service. Xbox Series X and S users will need the Game Pass Ultimate subscription, while a standard PC Game Pass subscription is sufficient for PC players. The release date for Avowed on Game Pass is February 18, 2025, with the option to preload the game. An Avowed Premium Upgrade Edition can be purchased for .49 / £17.99, granting early access starting February 13, 2025, and includes bonus outfits, a digital artbook, and the original soundtrack.
Winsage
December 21, 2024
A game analyst predicts that the high-end console market may not support both PlayStation and Xbox, suggesting a possible exit for Xbox. However, the relevance of console exclusives is diminishing as PlayStation expands to platforms like Steam, and Valve allows manufacturers to create consoles based on its operating system. Xbox is likely to increase its device variety, with Microsoft appointing Roanne Sones to lead its hardware ecosystem. Under her leadership, Xbox is expanding beyond traditional consoles, showcasing devices like the ASUS ROG Ally handheld gaming PC and mobile controllers. The upcoming CES 2025 will feature discussions on enhancing Windows for gaming handhelds. Both Xbox and PlayStation rely on x86 AMD architecture, and the industry is exploring monetization strategies amid rising costs and stagnant user growth. Microsoft aims to align Xbox more closely with Windows for easier game deployment and potential integration of third-party stores. There is speculation about eliminating the paywall for premium multiplayer gaming in the next generation. Successful execution of this vision is uncertain, as Microsoft must navigate regional marketing and distribution complexities while ensuring a smooth gaming experience and backward compatibility.
Winsage
December 12, 2024
Microsoft has added over 400 games to the Xbox app, including titles like Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove and Jackbox Party Pack, with contributions from Japanese developers Kemco and Kairosoft. Approximately 100 of these titles support the Xbox Play Anywhere initiative, allowing gamers to transition between Xbox console and PC. Microsoft has reduced its revenue share from sales to 12% to attract developers from competing storefronts. More announcements are expected at the Game Developers Conference 2025. Additionally, Microsoft is testing direct-to-cloud controllers and enhancing streaming service visual quality. A pilot program for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members allows them to stream select games from their Xbox consoles.
BetaBeacon
December 12, 2024
Cloud gaming on Xbox consoles with purchased games is only available for some Xbox Insiders in the Alpha Skip Ahead and Alpha rings of the Insider program who are subscribed to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. There are 50 select games that can be streamed, with more games expected to be added over time.
Winsage
December 11, 2024
Microsoft has updated the home screen of its Xbox PC app to improve user experience, making it easier to find new releases, sales, and events. The update includes the addition of 400 previously unavailable titles to the Xbox store. Microsoft has integrated PC games with Xbox functionalities into the app, featuring titles from developers like Kemco and Kairosoft, as well as games such as Shovel Knight Treasure Trove and Jackbox Party Pack. Enhancements for Xbox Game Pass subscribers include the ability to stream select games remotely, with Xbox Insiders now able to stream their personally owned games to Xbox Series X and Xbox One consoles. Game Pass Ultimate subscribers in 28 supported countries can access this feature, which includes popular titles like Star Wars Outlaws and The Witcher 3, as well as indie games like Animal Well and Dredge. Xbox Insiders in the Alpha Skip-Ahead and Alpha rings can preview this streaming feature now, with broader capabilities expected to roll out in 2025.
AppWizard
December 11, 2024
Microsoft is enhancing the Xbox app on Windows by introducing nearly 400 previously unavailable PC games and a revamped user experience. This update includes contributions from Japanese studios like Kemco and Kairosoft, as well as notable titles such as The Invincible by Double 11. Over 100 of these games are classified as Xbox Play Anywhere, allowing seamless play across Xbox consoles and PCs. Features like universal Xbox ownership, cloud saves, and cross-play capabilities are emphasized to improve the gaming experience. Microsoft has lowered its revenue share from 30 percent to 12 percent to attract game developers to its Windows-based store. Future updates regarding the Xbox app are expected at an upcoming game developers conference in March, which will also introduce a new home UI showcasing featured content and a “jump back in” section for quick access to recent gaming sessions.
AppWizard
November 25, 2024
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offers a 3-month membership for a reduced price, along with a one-month membership at a lower cost. The service provides access to over 500 games optimized for PC, including recent releases like S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. Users can stack up to five 3-month memberships for a total of 15 months. The subscription includes EA Play, cross-platform play, cloud gaming, and monthly perks.
TrendTechie
November 18, 2024
On November 11, 2024, Anton Gorelkin suggested that the game S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 might face an official ban in Russia due to GSC Game World's support for the Ukrainian Armed Forces or if it contains extremist materials. As of now, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 has not been officially banned, but its potential for illegal status exists before or after its release on November 20. Roskomnadzor has blocked the game's official website and developer resources at the request of the General Prosecutor's Office. GSC Game World is not designated as a banned organization in Russia, despite its support for the Ukrainian military. Historically, no games have been banned or classified as extremist in Russia, with the closest case being Last Train Home, which was dismissed by the court due to lack of evidence. If S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 is banned, it may be difficult to prove purchases due to the nature of transactions, and it will be available on Game Pass, reducing risks for players. Downloading the game from torrent sites is unlikely to result in consequences for personal use, but distributing it could lead to legal issues. Discussing the game on social media could be seen as promoting extremism if it is classified as such. If a ban occurs after purchase, individuals may be safe from penalties for past purchases but should avoid discussing ownership.
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