Xbox Showcase Archives

Winsage

February 10, 2025

Microsoft Weekly: Xbox features for PCs, useful tools for Windows 11, and more

Microsoft refreshed the Windows Health Dashboard, providing updated information on known bugs affecting Windows 11 version 24H2, including a fix for users unable to modify specific date and time settings and a workaround for difficulties with Windows updates via USB or CD media. A guide was shared on restoring Dolby Digital (AC-3) support in Windows 11 version 24H2, and two debloating applications, WinScript and NoBloatbox, were introduced for system optimization and bloatware removal. This week's preview builds for Windows 11 included a significant update for MIDI and allowed users to customize widgets on their lock screens. An update for the Microsoft Store now permits users to choose which components of games to download. Optical Character Recognition has returned in the Photos app for Windows Insiders with enhancements and bug fixes. Microsoft announced the dates for its upcoming developer conference, Build 2025, scheduled for May 19-22 in Seattle, Washington. Firefox 135 was released with a redesigned new tab page and privacy enhancements, while Microsoft Edge 133 launched with an updated downloads interface and an AI-powered scareware blocker. Chrome version 134 is set to enhance picture-in-picture mode. In gaming news, several Xbox titles, including Forza Horizon 5 and Age of Mythology: Retold, are being released for PlayStation 5. EA's Criterion Games is focused on the next Battlefield installment, leaving the future of Need for Speed uncertain. Microsoft will host the first ID@Xbox showcase on February 24, 2025. Valve updated Steam to include a banner for abandoned games, and Nvidia announced new games for the GeForce NOW streaming service. The Epic Games Store is offering two free titles, and Amazon Prime members have access to several free games.

AppWizard

September 27, 2024

PC Gamer at Tokyo Game Show 2024 Day 2 report: Microsoft’s Game Pass gambit boosts PC gaming, while Konami leans on Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater

At the Tokyo Game Show 2024, PC gaming is highlighted as a significant growth area, with traditional console-exclusive models declining. Warframe features prominently at the event, although attendees cannot ride the showcased motorbike. Microsoft's Game Pass subscription service has bolstered the ranks of PC gamers and attracted console gamers, particularly from Sony, due to the decline of exclusive titles and affordable access to new games. Microsoft has also announced the addition of classic titles like Starcraft 2 to Game Pass for PC users on November 5th. The rising costs of consoles, such as the PS5 Pro, are making PC gaming more appealing to budget-conscious gamers. Konami is in recovery mode following Hideo Kojima's departure, focusing on the remake of Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, but faces uncertainty about future projects. SNK is revitalized after being acquired by a Saudi firm and is showcasing its fighting game, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, which will release on PC on day one. The fighting game genre is thriving on PC, with titles like Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8 already successful, and upcoming releases featuring cross-platform play.

AppWizard

September 26, 2024

I’m beyond excited for Threads of Time, the flashy Chrono Trigger-inspired RPG

During the Tokyo Game Show, Xbox announced a new game titled Threads of Time, which features elements like sky pirates, a mech-infested cyberpunk city, and dinosaurs. The game involves a quest to restore the ancient order of the Time Knights and will be available on Steam, though a release date has not been provided.

AppWizard

July 15, 2024

Here’s 3 reasons I’m actually pretty optimistic about Dragon Age: The Veilguard despite being an old school RPG sicko

RPGs don't translate well into short, action-packed trailers. The Veilguard's development has been troubled, but despite the negative response to the first trailer, there is optimism that the game could be better than anything BioWare has made since Dragon Age 2. BioWare is known for action RPGs rather than traditional CRPGs, and their games have always had excellent core ability design and feel.

AppWizard

June 19, 2024

737 days since the last Silksong news, and not a whisper from this year’s Nintendo Direct—I’d like to say fans are coping well but, y’know

Silksong, the sequel to Hollow Knight, has been absent since its announcement in 2019, with only one appearance in 2022. Fans are eagerly awaiting news and feeling disappointed by the lack of communication from Team Cherry.

AppWizard

June 11, 2024

Xbox shows off new Doom, Call of Duty and Perfect Dark in 2024 showcase

The 2024 Xbox Showcase unveiled new titles such as Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Doom: The Dark Ages, and a new Gears of War prequel. Other announcements included a Perfect Dark reboot, new Fable and Avowed games, expansions for World of Warcraft and Diablo 4, and new titles from EA, Square Enix, Kepler Interactive, GSC Game World, and Rebellion. Microsoft also announced the release of three new Xbox Series consoles.