Xbox Titles Archives

Winsage

April 1, 2025

Asus’ latest video teases a possible Xbox gaming handheld

Microsoft has not confirmed plans for an Xbox-branded handheld gaming device, but unverified leaks suggest an announcement could occur this year. Asus is positioning itself as a potential partner, having launched devices like the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X. A recent promotional video from Asus hints at a new handheld device that may incorporate Xbox elements, featuring a silhouette resembling an Xbox configuration. Speculation exists that this device could be a modified version of the ROG Ally X, potentially running Windows 11 and supporting Game Pass streaming. The promotional video included phrases suggesting hardware enhancements, but the reality of the project remains uncertain. There is skepticism about the feasibility of a dedicated handheld Xbox, given that many Xbox titles are already available on PC. The video was shared on March 31st, adding to the speculation surrounding its authenticity.

Winsage

March 13, 2025

Microsoft isn’t launching its Xbox handheld this year, but Asus might be

Microsoft is developing a next-generation Xbox platform aimed at unifying its Windows and Xbox ecosystems, with a handheld gaming device codenamed Project Kennan in prototype phase, expected to launch in a few years. The goal is to create a universal library of games accessible across devices, with substantial changes anticipated by 2025. Project Kennan will offer a handheld experience powered by Windows, resembling the Xbox interface, as part of a broader strategy called Project Bayside. Microsoft is also focusing on streamlining game development for seamless operation across handhelds, consoles, and PCs. A dedicated team for game preservation and compatibility was established in early 2024, indicating a commitment to maintaining digital libraries. A premium successor to the Xbox Series X is projected for release in 2027. Microsoft is hosting a 50th anniversary event on April 4th to share updates on its Copilot AI and other innovations. Additionally, Copilot will have a new press-to-talk hotkey on Windows, and the Remote Desktop app will be replaced by a new Windows app by May 27th. Forza Horizon 5 will require a Microsoft account on PS5 for online features, and a recent Xbox Alpha update caused some consoles to reset to factory settings. A Windows 11 update has caused issues with USB printers, and Microsoft Edge on Android is receiving six new extensions. Microsoft is reportedly dropping some CoreWeave services ahead of a billion IPO, while Copilot is being integrated into GroupMe.

AppWizard

March 8, 2025

Hundreds Of Delisted Xbox 360 Games Now Have The Potential To Return On PC

XenonRecomp is a software tool that converts Xbox 360 executables into C++ code, allowing for the potential porting of Xbox 360 games to PC. This process is unofficial and may face challenges from original publishers. While some games, like Sonic Unleashed, have already been ported, the complexity of the process may limit the number of successful transitions. Many Xbox 360 titles were delisted from the marketplace when the old Xbox Store was closed, and XenonRecomp may be a key method for preserving these games. Xbox head Phil Spencer has shown interest in exploring options for delisted Xbox 360 games.

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

Former Sony exec finally says the quiet part out loud: putting PlayStation games on PC is ‘almost like printing money’

Console manufacturers have historically neglected the PC platform as a revenue source. Microsoft has shifted its strategy by releasing games on PC and PlayStation, while Sony has begun to release more PS4 and PS5 titles on Steam, including the successful simultaneous launch of Helldivers 2 on both PS5 and PC. Shuhei Yoshida, a former Sony executive, indicated that he had envisioned bringing Sony games to PC earlier but faced resistance within the company. He noted that releasing games on PC could attract players to buy PlayStations in the future and highlighted the financial benefits of porting games to PC, which is cheaper than creating new titles. Yoshida also emphasized the importance of the Chinese PC gaming market, citing the success of titles like Black Myth: Wukong. He speculated on the absence of Bloodborne on PC and expressed that he would have resisted Sony's shift towards live-service games if possible.

AppWizard

February 19, 2025

Game Pass: What time does Avowed go live?

Avowed launches on February 18, 2024, at synchronized global times: 10am PT, 1pm ET, 6pm GMT, 7pm CET, 3am KST (Feb 19), 3am JST (Feb 19), 5am AEDT (Feb 19), and 7am NZDT (Feb 19). Early access for the Premium Edition started on February 13. The game will be available on Xbox Game Pass, but only for Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers at launch; it will not be accessible to Game Pass Core or Standard subscribers. Avowed can also be pre-ordered on platforms like Xbox Store, Steam, and Battle.net.

AppWizard

February 14, 2025

Monster Hunter Wilds is already having a discount ahead of launch – Here’s where you can hunt for Capcom’s biggest game of 2025 at a cheaper price

Monster Hunter Wilds is set to launch on February 28, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam, with a retail price of .99. The PC version is available at a discounted price of .79 at GreenManGaming. Players will take on the role of a monster hunter tasked with exploring the Forbidden Lands and reuniting a lost boy named Nata with his tribe. The game features expansive hunting environments, a diverse array of monsters, and introduces new gameplay mechanics, including a mount called Seikret and support for cross-play online multiplayer. Preorders for the PC version are currently available at a discounted price, and players are encouraged to check the PC Benchmark program to ensure their systems meet the requirements.

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.

Winsage

December 21, 2024

Predicting the (actually very exciting) future of Xbox hardware

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

Xbox App Just Added 400 PC Games And Microsoft Wants More

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.

Winsage

December 12, 2024

Xbox’s PC App Brings Refreshed Home Experience To All Users

Microsoft has rolled out its revamped Home Experience to all PC users after testing with Xbox Insiders. The new user interface aims to enhance the gaming experience by making it easier to find games and discover new titles. It features Game Pass offerings and streamlines access to games outside the subscription service, keeping players informed about featured content, upcoming releases, new events, Game Pass updates, and sales. The Xbox app is also evolving to help discover Xbox titles not included in Game Pass. A new "jump back in" feature allows players to resume gameplay easily in 'Compact Mode.' Microsoft plans to introduce more features in the future as part of its Windows and PC Game Pass initiatives.