Kategorie: News

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Delta (2404.240314-2000)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Delta (2404.240314-2000)

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    Hey Xbox Insiders! We have a new Xbox Update Preview releasing to the Delta ring today.

    It’s important we note that some updates made to these preview OS builds include background improvements that ensure a quality and stable build for Xbox consoles. We will continue to post these release notes, even when the noticeable changes to the UI are minimal or behind the scenes, so you’re aware when updates are coming to your device.

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details

    • OS Version: XB_FLT_2404ZN\25398.4026.240314-2000
    • Available: 4 p.m. PT – March 19, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – March 20, 2024

    New Features and Experiences

    We have exciting news! Delta users can expect something new coming to their Xbox Update Preview.

    Capture & Share

    Users will now see a toast notification after uploading a new screenshot or game clip to OneDrive if they’re running low on space.

    Discord Voice – Soundboard Audio

    Xbox players who have joined Discord Voice will now be able to hear soundboard audio from others in the channel or call. A mute button for soundboard audio can be found in the Discord Voice options in the Guide. At this time, you cannot trigger soundboard audio from the console.

    Microsoft Store – Improved Search

    Today, a new search experience enhanced by AI is available to a random selection of players. This experience provides improved results and greater flexibility, allowing you to search for any feature or criteria you can imagine, including concepts like “cozy games” or “arcade racers.” To get started, launch the Microsoft Store, and try searching for something new!

    We want your feedback on this new experience! If you notice anything unexpected or see results that are not quite what you were looking for, please let us know by filing feedback with Report a Problem.

    • Note: In the new experience, you’ll see a “New” tip just below the search bar.

    Fixes Included

    Thanks to all the great feedback Xbox Insiders provide and the hard work of Xbox engineers, we are happy to announce the following fixes have been implemented with this build:

    Network Transfer

    • Fixes to address an unexpected error that could occur when initiating a network transfer if the content already exists.

    Parties

    • Fixes to address an issue where no members would be listed when attempting to invite club members to a party.

    System

    • Various updates to properly reflect local languages across the console.

    Known Issues

    While known issues may have been listed in previous Xbox Insider Release Notes, they are not being ignored! However, it may take Xbox engineers more time to find a solution. If you experience any of these issues, we ask that you please follow any guidance provided and file feedback with Report a Problem.

    Audio

    • Some users have reported experiencing intermittent audio issues across the dashboard, games, and apps.
      • Troubleshooting: If you do experience issues, please confirm your TV and all other equipment have the latest firmware installed. If you are unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance. You can also find additional troubleshooting tips here: Troubleshoot audio on your Xbox console.
      • Feedback: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware and troubleshooting further, please submit feedback via Report a Problem when you are experiencing the issue. Use the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”.
        • Note: Be sure to include as much information as possible about the issue, when it started, your setup, troubleshooting you have completed, and any additional information that will help us reproduce the issue.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to the network immediately on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.
      • Workaround: Wait a minute or two for the connection to establish. If your console still hasn’t connected, restart your Xbox from the Power Center or the guide then file feedback with Report a Problem. Learn more about restarting here: How to restart or power cycle your Xbox console.

    As always, be sure to use Report a problem to keep us informed of any issues you encounter. We may not be able to respond to everyone, but the data we’ll gather is crucial to finding a resolution.

    What Happens to Your Feedback

    If you’re an Xbox Insider looking for support, please visit the community subreddit. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are there to help with your concerns.

    When posting to the subreddit, please look through the most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to existing threads with the same issue before posting a new one. This helps us support you the best we can! Also, don’t forget to use “Report a Problem” before posting – the information shared in both places helps us understand your issue better.

    Thank you to every Xbox Insider in the subreddit today and welcome to the community if you’re just joining us! We love that it has become such a friendly and community-driven hub of conversation and support.

    For more information regarding the Xbox Insider Program follow us on Twitter. Keep an eye on future Xbox Insider Release Notes for more information regarding your Xbox Update Preview ring!

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Beta (2404.240314-2000)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Beta (2404.240314-2000)

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    Hey Xbox Insiders! We have a new Xbox Update Preview releasing to the Beta ring today.

    It’s important we note that some updates made to these preview OS builds include background improvements that ensure a quality and stable build for Xbox consoles. We will continue to post these release notes, even when the noticeable changes to the UI are minimal or behind the scenes, so you’re aware when updates are coming to your device.

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details

    • OS Version: XB_FLT_2404ZN\25398.4026.240314-2000
    • Available: 2 p.m. PT – March 19, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – March 20, 2024

    New Features and Experiences

    We have exciting news! Beta users can expect something new coming to their Xbox Update Preview.

    Discord Voice – Soundboard Audio

    Xbox players who have joined Discord Voice will now be able to hear soundboard audio from others in the channel or call. A mute button for soundboard audio can be found in the Discord Voice options in the Guide. At this time, you cannot trigger soundboard audio from the console.

    Microsoft Store – Improved Search

    Today, a new search experience enhanced by AI is available to a random selection of players. This experience provides improved results and greater flexibility, allowing you to search for any feature or criteria you can imagine, including concepts like “cozy games” or “arcade racers.” To get started, launch the Microsoft Store, and try searching for something new!

    We want your feedback on this new experience! If you notice anything unexpected or see results that are not quite what you were looking for, please let us know by filing feedback with Report a Problem.

    • Note: In the new experience, you’ll see a “New” tip just below the search bar.

    Fixes Included

    Thanks to all the great feedback Xbox Insiders provide and the hard work of Xbox engineers, we are happy to announce the following fixes have been implemented with this build:

    System

    • Various updates to properly reflect local languages across the console.

    Known Issues

    While known issues may have been listed in previous Xbox Insider Release Notes, they are not being ignored! However, it may take Xbox engineers more time to find a solution. If you experience any of these issues, we ask that you please follow any guidance provided and file feedback with Report a Problem.

    Audio

    • Some users have reported experiencing intermittent audio issues across the dashboard, games, and apps.
      • Troubleshooting: If you do experience issues, please confirm your TV and all other equipment have the latest firmware installed. If you are unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance. You can also find additional troubleshooting tips here: Troubleshoot audio on your Xbox console.
      • Feedback: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware and troubleshooting further, please submit feedback via Report a Problem when you are experiencing the issue. Use the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”.
        • Note: Be sure to include as much information as possible about the issue, when it started, your setup, troubleshooting you have completed, and any additional information that will help us reproduce the issue.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to the network immediately on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.
      • Workaround: Wait a minute or two for the connection to establish. If your console still hasn’t connected, restart your Xbox from the Power Center or the guide then file feedback with Report a Problem. Learn more about restarting here: How to restart or power cycle your Xbox console.

    As always, be sure to use Report a problem to keep us informed of any issues you encounter. We may not be able to respond to everyone, but the data we’ll gather is crucial to finding a resolution.

    What Happens to Your Feedback

    If you’re an Xbox Insider looking for support, please visit the community subreddit. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are there to help with your concerns.

    When posting to the subreddit, please look through the most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to existing threads with the same issue before posting a new one. This helps us support you the best we can! Also, don’t forget to use “Report a Problem” before posting – the information shared in both places helps us understand your issue better.

    Thank you to every Xbox Insider in the subreddit today and welcome to the community if you’re just joining us! We love that it has become such a friendly and community-driven hub of conversation and support.

    For more information regarding the Xbox Insider Program follow us on Twitter. Keep an eye on future Xbox Insider Release Notes for more information regarding your Xbox Update Preview ring!

    Website: LINK

  • How Xbox Continues to Help Independent Developers Reach More Players

    How Xbox Continues to Help Independent Developers Reach More Players

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    Greetings from GDC 2024 – every year we use this show as a way to meet tons of developers and as a convenient check in to talk about the goings on at ID@Xbox.  

    2024 got off to a fast start with players this year — Xbox had its biggest month ever on console this past January, measured by play time (including ID@Xbox program member Pocket Pair, whose Xbox Game Preview title, Palworld, has more than 10,000,000 players on Xbox so far!). 

    With more than 3500 titles from independent developers in more than 100 countries in active development for Xbox and Windows via the ID@Xbox program, we’re always working to help independent developers reach more players, and for players to find the best new games. Our new open pitch portal and our Indie Selects program are two ways in which we‘ve unlocked new opportunities for creators and players alike.  

    Last year, we mentioned that we’d be launching an open pitch portal for members of the ID@Xbox program to pitch their games for deal consideration for Game Pass and our Developer Acceleration Program. I’m happy to say that since the portal launched in August, we’ve had hundreds of studios use the portal to submit games for consideration.

    While we don’t publicly talk about our deals before they’re announced, we can say that opening up this process more transparently and publicly has been a huge step forward, to ensure the curators at Xbox across Game Pass and other programs get access to the broadest variety of games to consider, so we can keep bringing players the best selection of games on Earth. While we’re incredibly excited to meet old and new friends from development studios this week at the Game Developer’s Conference, travelling to San Francisco (or anywhere) to meet Xbox staff in person shouldn’t be a pre-requisite to get a game in consideration for a deal — and I am happy to say that it no longer is.  

    Second, this January, after an enormous amount of work from our amazing marketing and store teams, we launched the Indie Selects section of the Xbox Store! This section of the store harkens back to the olden days of Xbox Live Arcade with hand-curated collections of great titles from independent developers available on Xbox. In February, we began awarding six titles a month with an Indie Selects designation / award as well. 

    Although I’m not personally the biggest fan of awards – we all have our own criteria for what makes a great game – so I’m always a little uncomfortable trying to pick winners in any category, especially where there are so many great games out there. However, I also live and breathe games. One of our discovery challenges is helping folks who love games, but don’t immerse themselves in gaming news on a daily (or hourly!) basis. For them, the Indie Selects designation is a great way to help them quickly find games that are endorsed by a group of curators and staff at Xbox who vote on them each month. (I can also share that Phil Spencer volunteered to serve on the voting committee!) These are all awesome games, but of course, there are a great many awesome games that won’t have the Indie Selects designation as well.That includes most games that launch with Xbox Game Pass. The marketing efforts we’ve started with the Indie Selects program are predominantly for games that are not in Game Pass.  

    Game Pass already provides an amazing discovery mechanism (if you see a game you think you might like… download it!), and our Indie Selects efforts are there to ensure that folks see the amazing breadth and depth of the whole catalog on Xbox, not just Game Pass. 

    And that depth and breadth just keeps getting bigger. We now have “business hours” coverage for developers 24/7 around the world, and the team’s work is paying off, with more than 100 titles in development for Xbox consoles via the ID@Xbox Program from Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. Of course, we have a lot of work to do to grow and help the developer base in these areas, and from other developers who are under-represented on Xbox wherever they are geographically. We want Xbox to be a place where everyone feels comfortable playing and developing.  

    Of course that doesn’t mean every game will be for every person, and that’s where some of our most challenging, and exciting work will be in the months and years to come – enhancing discovery so that we can help players find their next favorite games, and so we can help developers of great games find their audience wherever they live around the globe. Games remain a hit driven business, but we believe in a future where every game has a reasonable shot in front of its intended audience to make a critical and commercial impact. This is crucial to our dual vision to bring players the widest and deepest array of games to play, and to enable developers to have a sustainable future creating and entertaining us for years to come. And from what we’ve seen coming, we’re incredibly optimistic about the future of games and developers on Xbox. 

    Website: LINK

  • Dive In and Discover the World of Free-To-Play on Xbox

    Dive In and Discover the World of Free-To-Play on Xbox

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Xbox is your home for free-to-play action! Dive into the week-long celebration of the amazing free-to-play games on Xbox from March 19 to March 25 in Free-To-Play Frenzy to explore new worlds, embark on epic quests, battle with millions of other players online and enjoy great discounts and special Perks* offers. Whether you want to battle royale with your friends, explore distant galaxies, or unleash your creativity, there’s a free-to-play game that suits your mood and style on Xbox.   

    Enhance your gameplay with great discounts and special Perks offers*. Xbox’s Free-to-Play Frenzy Sale is here with up to 65% off add-ons on some of your favorites such as Brawlhalla – All Legends Pack, Puzzle Quest 3 – Adventurer’s Goldenfire Pack, War Thunder – F4EJ Phantom II ADTW Pack.  Hurry, discounts end March 25!  

    Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III Screenshot

    Immerse yourself in new adventures during Xbox Free-To-Play Frenzy as you discover new games and modes that will keep you entertained for hours. Join the fight in Call of Duty: Warzone, the free-to-play battle royale mode of the blockbuster franchise. Create, explore, and conquer in Roblox, the online platform that lets you create and play millions of games made by users around the world. Dive into Warframe, the sci-fi action RPG that lets you become a space ninja joining other players in co-op missions across the solar system. 

    Revisit favorite journeys for some familiar fun in your favorite free-to-play games on Xbox to enjoy fresh content, updates, and events. Experience the new Season of the Wish in Destiny 2, the free-to-play sci-fi shooter that offers new challenges and rewards. Transport to a vast sci-fi fantasy world in Phantasy Star Online 2 to embark on quests, explore planets, and fight enemies with other players. 

    From racing to role-playing, from adventure to simulation, you can find a game that matches your interests and imagination. Your imagination is the only boundary in The Finals; build your contestant with a wild combination of looks, abilities, accessories, and gadgets in the fast-paced, high-stakes game fight for fame to surprise your opponents in the arena to win the hearts of viewers.    

    Explore Free To Play Perks 

    Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members can claim exclusive Perks for a variety of games, including Smite, Warframe, DC Universe Online, Hawked, Vigor, and Super Animal Royale. These Perks may include bonus loot, skins, and more to enhance your gameplay experience. Check the Perks gallery on your Xbox console or the Xbox app for details, or read the descriptions below to learn about specific offers for these games. 

    Smite
    Unlock true power with the Smite Netherbeasts Perk. This Perk contains the Gods Chaac, Cernunnos, and Cerberus, as well as their voice packs and emotes. Plus enjoy a 3-Day Account Booster! 

    Warframe 
    Enhance your Arsenal with valuable amenities like an Orokin Reactor and Orokin Catalyst, 3 Day Affinity and Credit Boosters, and more. Plus, bolster your look with the impressive Excalibur Immortal Skin! 

    Vigor 
    Become a harbinger of deadly news in the unforgiving Outlands. Gear up, grab the Airdrop, and prove that you can deliver! 

    DC Universe Online 
    Outshine and out style both friends and foes with this Tenth Metal Chroma Set to seriously level up your wardrobe game! Base game for DC Universe Online included with this Perk. 

    Hawked 
    Plunder Pack #1 contains:  – Radioactive Outfit – Green Wyvern Hoverboard – Noxious Weapon Pattern. These items are purely cosmetic and do not offer a competitive advantage. 

    Super Animal Royale 
    Take your animal apparel to the next level with the Super Animal Royale – Spring Perks Pack. Claw your way to the top of the food chain in style with this exclusive set of cosmetics. 

    Ready for endless fun? Xbox Free-To-Play Frenzy is your chance to discover the world of free-to-play on Xbox. Whether you want to immerse yourself in new adventures, revisit favorite journeys, or create your own stories, you can find a game that matches your mood. So grab your controller, press play, and get lost in the adventures of Free-To-Play Frenzy on Xbox. 

    *Perks offers vary by region and game. Check the Perks gallery on your Xbox console or the Xbox app for details. 

    Website: LINK

  • Celebrating the community: Micah

    Celebrating the community: Micah

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    We love hearing from members of the community and sharing the stories of inspiring young people, volunteers, and educators all over the world who have a passion for technology.

    A smiling child.
    Micah attends a Code Club in a library in Leeds, UK.

    With this latest story, we’re taking you to Leeds, UK, to meet Micah, a young space enthusiast whose confidence has soared since he started attending a Code Club at his local library.

    Introducing Micah

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDk0MtiMnCE?feature=oembed&w=500&h=281]

    Computing skills are essential in today’s world, and Micah’s mum Catherine was keen for him to be introduced to coding from a young age.

    While Micah is known to people close to him for his inquisitive nature, cheeky behaviour, and quick-witted sense of humour, he can be a little shy when meeting new people. And he isn’t always keen on his mum’s suggestions about trying new things and attending after-school clubs! However, when Catherine saw there was a Code Club running at their local library, she knew it was the perfect opportunity for Micah to try out computing.

    A parent and child laughing together.
    Micah’s mum Catherine took the opportunity to get Micah introduced to coding at their local Code Club.

    What Catherine didn’t know is that not only would Micah find out he was a talented coder, but Code Club would also set the path for him to become a regular attendee at many of the library’s other clubs.

    Opportunities for young coders

    Based in Leeds, the Compton Centre Code Club is part of the Leeds Libraries network, which runs seven Code Clubs throughout the city. Liam, Senior Librarian for Digital at Leeds Libraries, described the importance of these spaces for the community and for engaging children in tech:

    “Libraries are safe spaces that provide free access to exciting and innovative technology to those in our communities who might not get that opportunity. We’re proud that our Code Clubs can support young people to engage with tech, learn some new skills, and meet like-minded peers in a friendly and positive environment.

    Our Code Clubs are aimed at 9- to 13-year-olds. We do have some learners that will come that have a younger sister or brother that wants to get involved as well. We never want to turn anyone away. So we’re more than welcoming for that age group to come in and have a play, get used to the equipment, and join in.”

    — Liam, Senior Librarian for Digital at Leeds Libraries

    Coding and confidence

    Code Club provides a safe and friendly space for Micah to connect with other children, and he has embraced coding with enthusiasm. This is possible thanks to the work, support, and encouragement of Micah’s Code Club mentor Basia (they/them), the librarian at the Compton Centre who runs the club.

    “Micah loves coming [to Code Club] and learning all the different things that he can do with coding. And he also loves Basia. They’re brilliant and run the club really well. It’s a super child-friendly place to be and he loves the support that he gets from them.”

    – Catherine, Micah’s mum

    Support from an inspiring mentor is so often an important part of a young coder’s journey, and Basia’s own journey from a coding beginner to a confident mentor highlights the positive influence Code Club has on both children and mentors.

    A child and Code Club leader at a club session.
    Micah loves coming to Code Club and being mentored by the club leader, librarian Basia.

    Basia reflected on how they felt when they first heard they were going to be running Code Club sessions, and how their skills and confidence have grown.

    “I was daunted for a bit. But actually one of the first things I did when I started this job was to go through some of [the Raspberry Pi Foundation’s] resources and do a project in Scratch. And it was just so simple and straightforward. You know, all the resources are absolutely great and I don’t really need to think about it. I think my confidence has increased quite significantly.”

    — Basia, Librarian and Code Club mentor

    Since joining Code Club, Micah has become involved in other extracurricular activities, like Lego club and drama club. These experiences have contributed to Micah’s overall personal growth, showcasing the transformative power of Code Club for children.

    Young people and adult mentors at a Code Club session.
    Code Clubs are save and friendly spaces for learning.

    Micah has exciting dreams for the future, including becoming an astrophysicist, a marine biologist, and the founder of a company named Save The Planet. Supported by dedicated mentors like Basia, Code Clubs are not just about teaching coding — they are helping shape the leaders of tomorrow.

    Inspire young people in your community

    If you are interested in encouraging your child to explore coding, take a look at the free coding project resources we have available to support you. If you would like to set up a Code Club for young people in your community, head to codeclub.org for information and support.

    Help us celebrate Micah and his inspiring journey by sharing his story on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Facebook.

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Xbox App [2403.1000.51.0]

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Xbox App [2403.1000.51.0]

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    Hey Xbox Insiders! We are releasing a new Xbox App for Windows build to Xbox Insiders who are enrolled in the PC Gaming Insiders preview! Thank you all for being Xbox Insiders. Continue read to learn about fixes and known issues. Make sure that you update the Xbox app, Gaming Services and Game Bar to ensure you get all of the fixes!

    Versions of PC Gaming prerelease products:

    Xbox App version: 2403.1000.51.0

    • Released: 5:00 p.m. PT – Mar 18th 2024

    Game Bar version: 7.124.3131.0

    • Released: 5:00 p.m. PT – Mar 15th 2024

    Xbox App Bug Fixes:

    • Various fixes to UI in Game Hubs.

    How to Get Xbox Insider Support

    Don’t forget! If you encounter any issues, you can leave feedback by navigating to the feedback option on your profile menu.

    You can also provide feedback, as well as interact with the community, on the Xbox Insiders Subreddit. Please be as specific as possible when providing feedback.

    When posting to the subreddit, please look through most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to threads with the same issue before posting a brand new one. This helps us support you the best we can!

    For more information regarding the Xbox Insider Program follow us on Twitter. Keep an eye on future Xbox Insider Release Notes for more information!

    Thank you to everyone who participates in the Xbox Insider Program! Your feedback helps us continue to build a great gaming experience in the Xbox app on PC. 

    Website: LINK

  • Arduino Days: Full schedule is online!

    Arduino Days: Full schedule is online!

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    This year we have so many talks, presentations, and announcements we had to spread out over three days! Arduino Days 2024 will be held from March 21st to 23rd – giving us more time to celebrate our community with our yearly event: 100% online, free, and open to all.

    The full schedule is now available on the dedicated Arduino Days website: explore the program to find the topics that are the most inspiring or interesting to you, and turn on notifications for the three YouTube lives linked below. 

    Day #1: March 21st from 3:30 PM CET — Let’s Get to Business

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_hJ4-JPsag?feature=oembed&w=500&h=281]

    We start off with a day dedicated to innovative transformation for professionals. From Bob Martin (Wizard of Make / Senior Staff Engineer at Microchip) and Foundries.io CEO George Gray, to founder and CEO of Blues Ray Ozzie and Bosch general manager Marcellino Gemelli – you’ll hear from a variety of pros who are leveraging the open-source ecosystem to innovate their industry with flexible, reliable, out-of-the-box solutions.

    Day #2: March 22nd from 3:30 PM CET — Makers in the Making

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9FsXG5thsA?feature=oembed&w=500&h=281]

    On the second day, the spotlight turns to the educators who embrace Arduino as a platform to teach STEM and engage students of all ages and skill levels. Discover how teachers can use Arduino’s Science Kit R3 to reveal the beauty of physics in Alan Bates’ talk, or find out how Alvik supports MicroPython beginners with project-based learning in Austin Gardner’s. And don’t miss new product presentations: we’re excited to introduce you to the upcoming PLC Starter Kit!

    Day #3: March 23rd from 3: 30 PM CET — All About the Community

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSdFAJ3gcpM?feature=oembed&w=500&h=281]

    Last, but definitely not least, Saturday will be a huge celebration of makers’ diverse skills and passions! Join this third awesome session to hear about a variety of original projects presented by their own creators, and dive deep into topics ranging from accessibility (with inventor Danielle Boyer) to product quality testing. Don’t miss our partner talks – with STMicroelectronics, Analog Devices, and more – and keep an ear out for our latest major announcements, including one for the new product we’ve been working on with Silicon Labs.

    We hope you’ll join us to celebrate Arduino Days live on YouTube, and let us know what your favorite sessions are in the chat comments. 

    Don’t forget there will also be dozens of in-person independent events around the world: check out the Arduino Days website in a few days for the official map! 

    No matter how you decide to show your love for open source, we look forward to seeing you at Arduino Days!

    The post Arduino Days: Full schedule is online! appeared first on Arduino Blog.

    Website: LINK

  • Bald im Xbox Game Pass: Diablo IV, The Quarry, Ark: Survival Ascended und mehr

    Bald im Xbox Game Pass: Diablo IV, The Quarry, Ark: Survival Ascended und mehr

    Reading Time: 5 minutes

    Heute reisen wir mit dem Game Pass einmal um die Welt und darüber hinaus: Evil West führt uns in den Wilden Westen, F1 23 auf Formel 1-Strecken in verschiedenen Kontinenten, Lightyear Frontier auf einen weit entfernten Planeten und Diablo IV sogar in die Hölle. Und das ist nur ein kleiner Vorgeschmack auf das, was Dich im Game Pass erwartet!

    Jetzt verfügbar

    Lightyear Frontier (Game Preview) (Cloud, PC, und Xbox Series X|S)
    Ab Tag eins im Game Pass erhältlich: Starte Deine interstellare Farm in diesem friedlichen Open-World-Farming-Abenteuer! Baue Deine nachhaltige Exo-Farm auf, züchte außerirdische Nutzpflanzen, passe Deinen Mech an und erkunde mit bis zu drei Freund*innen eine neue Welt voller Geheimnisse!  

    MLB The Show 24 (Cloud und Konsole)
    Ab Tag eins im Game Pass erhältlich: Schwing Deinen Baseballschläger, erlebe spielentscheidende Momente, werde zur Legende und verwirkliche Deine Baseballträume in MLB The Show 24.

    Bald verfügbar

    20. März – The Quarry (Cloud und Konsole)

    Als die Sonne in der letzten Nacht des Sommercamps untergeht, werden neun Teenager*innen in eine unvorhersehbare Nacht des Grauens gestürzt. Was könnte schlimmer sein als die blutüberströmten Einheimischen und die Kreaturen, die sie jagen? Die unvorstellbaren Entscheidungen, die Du treffen musst, um ihnen beim Überleben zu helfen.

    21. März – Evil West (Cloud, Konsole und PC)

    Eine dunkle Bedrohung wütet im Wilden Westen. Allein oder im Team kämpfst Du stilvoll in explosiven Kämpfen gegen blutrünstige Ungeheuer. Vernichte die Vampirhorden mit Deiner blitzschnellen Waffe und werde zum Superhelden des Wilden Westens.

    26. März – Terra Invicta (Game Preview) (PC)
    Von den Macher*innen von Long War: Eine außerirdische Invasion hat die Menschheit in sieben ideologische Fraktionen gespalten, von denen jede eine eigene Vision für die Zukunft hat. Führe die Fraktion Deiner Wahl an, um die Kontrolle über die Nationen der Erde zu erlangen, das Sonnensystem zu beherrschen und feindliche Flotten in taktischen Schlachten zu bekämpfen.

    28. März – Diablo IV  (Konsole und PC)
    Das Next Gen-Action-RPG kommt in den Game Pass: Kämpfe gegen das unendliche Böse und erlange unzählige Fähigkeiten, meistere albtraumhafte Dungeons und hol Dir legendäre Beute. Erlebe eine fesselnde Geschichte oder stürze Dich direkt in die Saison des Konstrukts  und entdecke eine neue Bedrohung, die tief unter dem Sand von Kehjistan lauert.

    28. März – Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 – Turbocharged (Cloud, Konsole und PC)

    Setze Dich hinter das Steuer der coolsten Autos und Fahrzeuge aus dem Hot Wheels-Universum, darunter die neuen ATVs und Motorräder. Erkunde fünf neue Gebiete. Fahre so, wie es Dir gefällt mit neuen Mechanismen in spannenden Herausforderungen und verrückten Spielmodi!

    28. März – Open Roads (Cloud, Konsole und PC)
    Ab Tag eins im Game Pass erhältlich: Lang verschollene Familiengeheimnisse. Hinweise auf ein verstecktes Vermögen. Und noch ein weiter Weg, bevor die Nacht hereinbricht. Die Beziehung zwischen Tess Devine und ihrer Mutter war noch nie einfach, aber jetzt begeben sie sich auf eine gemeinsame Reise in die Vergangenheit, die sie nie vergessen werden.

    1. April – Ark: Survival Ascended (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S)
    Tauche ein in ein neues Dinosaurier-Survival-Erlebnis, denn Ark wurde mit der Unreal Engine 5 von Grund auf für die nächste Generation neu entwickelt! Bist Du bereit, einen Stamm zu gründen, hunderte von Dinosaurierarten und andere Urzeitkreaturen zu zähmen und zu züchten? Erforsche, bastle, baue und bahne Dir Deinen Weg an die Spitze der Nahrungskette! Deine neue Welt erwartet Dich!

    2. April – F1 23 (Cloud) EA Play
    EA Sports’ F1 23 wird mit Xbox Cloud Gaming über EA Play verfügbar sein. Teste Dein Fähigkeiten am Lenkrad, stelle Dein Traumteam zusammen und bremse als Letzter im offiziellen Videospiel zur FIA Formel-1-Weltmeisterschaft 2023. 

    2. April  – Superhot: Mind Control Delete (Cloud, Konsole und PC)

    Superhot: Mind Control Delete kehrt in die Game Pass-Bibliothek zurück! Die Zeit vergeht nur, wenn Du Dich bewegst. Superhot: Mind Control Delete gibt dir weitere Einblicke in die charakteristische Power-Fantasy-Welt von Superhot mit eine umfangreicheren Story, verbessertem Gameplay, mehr Action und mehr Waffen. Tanze (in Zeitlupe) auf dem Pakett der Zerstörung – noch länger als je zuvor. 

    Falls Du es verpasst hast

    Jetzt erhältlich – NBA 2K24 (Cloud und Konsole)
    Werde zur Basketball-Legende in NBA 2K24 – erlebe eine Sammlung kompetitiver Spielmodi und tauche in eine einzigartige Sportsimulation ein. NBA 2K24 bietet eine Vielzahl spannender Spielmodi, die jetzt für alle Game Pass Ultimate-Mitglieder verfügbar sind. Wir sehen uns auf dem Spielfeld!

    DLC / Game Updates

    26. März – Fallout 76: America’s Playground

    Erlebe eine neue Fallout-Geschichte, die im verblassenden Glanz und Glamour von Atlantic City spielt. Bei dieser Rückkehr nach New Jersey arbeiten die Spieler*innen mit konkurrierenden lokalen Fraktionen zusammen, um es mit einer neuen Bedrohung aufzunehmen, die tief in den Pine Barrens von New Jersey lauert. 

    26. März – The Elder Scrolls Online: Scions of Ithelia DLC

    Im DLC Scions of Ithelia erwartet Dich ein neues, herausforderndes Dungeon-Crawling-Abenteuer. Hast Du das Zeug dazu, als Sieger*in hervorzugehen? Bezwinge beide Dungeons und schalte einzigartige Belohnungen frei: darunter neue Item-Sets, Sammlerstücke, Erfolge und vieles mehr. Game Pass-Mitglieder sparen 10 Prozent beim Kauf von Kronen, die im Crown Store für den DLC Scions of Ithelia eingelöst werden können.

    Xbox Game Pass Ultimate-Vorteile

    Jetzt verfügbar – Persona 3 Reload: Expansion Pass

    Tauche mit diesem Expansion Pass tiefer in die Welt von Persona 3 Reload ein und erhalte neue Inhalte wie Kostüme, Hintergrundmusik und erweiterte Story-Elemente. Erlebe neue rundenbasierte Rollenspiel-Features in Episode Aigis – The Answer und über 30 Stunden zusätzliches Gameplay in dieser Neuinterpretation des genreprägenden RPGs! Dieser Vorteil erfordert Persona 3 Reload, das jetzt im Game Pass Ultimate erhältlich ist.

    Jetzt verfügbar – Super Animal Royale Spring Perks Pack
    Bringe Deine Tierausstattung auf die nächste Stufe mit dem Super Animal Royale – Spring Perks Pack. Mit diesem exklusiven Set an Cosmetics kletterst Du in diesem Top-Down-2D-Battle-Royale für bis zu 64 Spieler*innen stilvoll an die Spitze der Nahrungskette. Dieser Vorteils-Inhalt erfordert Super Animal Royale, das als Free-to-Play-Version erhältlich ist.

    Jetzt verfügbar – Smite Netherbeasts Perk

    Spiele das brandneue Netherbeasts-Event im beliebten Action-MOBA Smite. Schalte die Göttinnen und Götter Chaac, Cernunnos und Cerberus frei und erhalte ihre Voice Packs und Emotes. Außerdem bekommst Du einen 3-Tages-Booster für Dein Konto! Für diesen Vorteils-Inhalt wird Smite benötigt, das kostenlos erhältlich ist.

    Diese Spiel verlassen den Game Pass am 31. März

    Folgende Spiele werden bald aus der Game Pass Bibliothek verschwinden. Schenke ihnen noch ein wenig Aufmerksamkeit, bevor sie den Game Pass verlassen, oder nutze Deinen Mitgliedsrabatt von 20 Prozent für Deinen Kauf, um sie in Deiner Bibliothek zu behalten!

    • Hot Wheels Unleashed (Cloud, Konsole und PC)
    • Infinite Guitars (Cloud, Konsole und PC)
    • MLB The Show 23 (Cloud und Konsole)

    Lass uns wissen, in welchen Spielen Du demnächst die Rangliste anführst, auf @Xbox, @XboxGamePass oder @XboxGamePassPC. Bis zum nächsten Mal! 

    Website: LINK

  • Coming to Xbox Game Pass: Diablo IV, The Quarry, Ark: Survival Ascended, and More

    Coming to Xbox Game Pass: Diablo IV, The Quarry, Ark: Survival Ascended, and More

    Reading Time: 5 minutes

    This “coming soon” announcement we’re going to many different places with Game Pass, including the Old West, the open road, the other roads meant for toy themed cars, and even going to hell. That’s just a small taste of where Game Pass is taking us, so let’s dive in!

    Available Today

    Lightyear Frontier (Game Preview) (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S) 
    Available on day one with Game Pass: Start your interstellar homestead in this peaceful open-world farming adventure! Build your sustainable exofarm, grow alien crops, customize your mech, and explore a new world full of mystery with up to three friends!    

    MLB The Show 24 (Cloud and Console) 
    Available on day one with Game Pass: Swing for the fences, experience game-deciding moments, become a legend and live out your baseball dreams in MLB The Show 24. 

    Coming Soon

    The Quarry (Cloud and Console) – March 20 
    When the sun goes down on the last night of summer camp, nine teenage counselors are plunged into an unpredictable night of horror. The only thing worse than the blood-drenched locals and creatures hunting them are the unimaginable choices you must make to help them survive. 

    The Quarry Key Art

    Evil West (Cloud, Console, and PC) – March 21 
    A dark menace consumes the Old West. In solo or co-op, fight with style in visceral, explosive combat against bloodthirsty monstrosities. Eradicate the vampiric hordes with your lightning-fueled gauntlet and become a Wild West Superhero. 

    Terra Invicta (Game Preview) (PC) – March 26 
    From the creators of Long War, an alien invasion has fractured humanity into seven ideological factions each with a unique vision for the future. Lead your chosen faction to take control of Earth’s nations, expand across the Solar System, and battle enemy fleets in tactical combat. 

    Diablo IV (Console and PC) – March 28 
    The next-gen action RPG experience is coming to Game Pass with endless evil to slaughter, countless abilities to master, nightmarish dungeons, and legendary loot. Experience a gripping story or jump straight into Season of the Construct to unearth a new threat looming deep beneath the sands of Kehjistan. 

    Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 – Turbocharged (Cloud, Console, and PC) – March 28 
    Get behind the wheel of the coolest cars and vehicles from the Hot Wheels universe, including the new ATVs and motorcycles. Explore 5 new stunning environments and race the way you want with new mechanics in exciting challenges and crazy game modes! 

    Open Roads (Cloud, Console, and PC) – March 28 
    Available on day one with Game Pass: Long-lost family secrets. Hints of a hidden fortune. And miles to go before they sleep. Tess Devine’s relationship with her mom has never been easy, but they’re about to set out together on a journey into the past that they’ll never forget. 

    Ark: Survival Ascended (Cloud, PC, Xbox Series X|S) – April 1 
    Respawn into a new dinosaur survival experience as Ark is reimagined from the ground-up into the next-generation with Unreal Engine 5! Are you ready to form a tribe, tame and breed hundreds of species of dinosaurs and other primeval creatures, explore, craft, build, and fight your way to the top of the food-chain? Your new world awaits! 

    F1 23 (Cloud) EA Play – April 2 
    EA Sports’ F1 23 will be available with Xbox Cloud Gaming via EA Play. Test your driving talents, create your dream team, and be the last to brake in the official video game of the 2023 FIA Formula One World Championship.   

    Superhot: Mind Control Delete (Cloud, Console, and PC) – April 2  
    Making a return to the Game Pass library! Time moves only when you move. Superhot: Mind Control Delete gives you more insight into the signature power fantasy world of Superhot with more story, more signature gameplay, more action, more guns. Keep dancing the slow-motion ballet of destruction for so much longer than ever before.   

    In Case You Missed It

    NBA 2K24 (Cloud and Console) – Available now 
    Strive for greatness with NBA 2K24 – experience a collection of competitive game modes and immerse yourself in a sports simulation unlike any other. NBA 2K24 boasts a variety of exciting game modes, now available for all Ultimate Game Pass Subscribers. We’ll see you on the court! 

    NBA 2K24 Hero Image

    DLC / Game Updates

    Fallout 76: America’s Playground – March 26 
    Experience a new Fallout story set in the fading glitz and glam of Atlantic City. In this intrepid return visit to New Jersey, players will work together with competing local factions to take on a new threat lying in wait deep within the New Jersey Pine Barrens.   

    The Elder Scrolls Online: Scions of Ithelia DLC – March 26 
    A challenging new dungeon crawling adventure awaits in the Scions of Ithelia DLC. Do you have what it takes to emerge victorious? Conquer both dungeons to unlock unique rewards, including new item sets, collectibles, achievements, and more. Game Pass members can save 10% on their purchase of Crowns to use towards the Scions of Ithelia DLC in the Crown Store. 

    Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Perks

    Persona 3 Reload: Expansion Pass – Available now 
    Dive deeper into the world of Persona 3 Reload with this expansion pass featuring upcoming content including new costumes, background music, and extended story content. Play this role-playing turn based content in the expansion pass Episode Aigis -The Answer-, offering over 30 hours of additional gameplay in this reimagining of the genre-defining RPG! This Perk content requires Persona 3 Reload to use, available now with Game Pass Ultimate. 

    Super Animal Royale Spring Perks Pack – Available now 
    Take your animal apparel to the next level with the Super Animal Royale – Spring Perks Pack. Claw your way to the top of the food chain in style with this exclusive set of cosmetics in this 64-player, top-down 2D battle royale. This Perk content requires Super Animal Royale, available free-to-play. 

    Smite Netherbeasts Perk – Available now 
    Play the all new Netherbeasts Event in the popular action MOBA, Smite. Unlock the Gods, Voice Packs, Emotes for: Chaac, Cernunnos, and Cerberus. Plus enjoy a 3 Day Account Booster! This Perk content requires Smite to use, available free-to-play. 

    Leaving March 31

    The following games are leaving the Game Pass library soon, be sure to show them some love before they go or consider using your 20% membership discount on your purchase to keep them in your library! 

    • Hot Wheels Unleashed (Cloud, Console, and PC) 
    • Infinite Guitars (Cloud, Console, and PC) 
    • MLB The Show 23 (Cloud and Console) 

    Time for me to decide what my next Diablo IV build will be (spoiler alert it is probably going to be another necromancer). Let us know what you’re pushing the leaderboards with over at @Xbox,  @XboxGamePass or @XboxGamePassPC. See you next time!

    Website: LINK

  • Get To Know Our Team: Austin – Technical Program Manager (Hardware & Internal Flighting)

    Get To Know Our Team: Austin – Technical Program Manager (Hardware & Internal Flighting)

    Reading Time: < 1 minute

    It might sound a little cheesy, but sometimes I think it’s forgotten that everyone here is super passionate and love Xbox just as much as our users. Like, just watching people work for the past seven-and-a-half years, I’ve seen so many incredible people working really hard to make things happen. If we were anywhere else, we probably wouldn’t have lasted half as long. We see the passion and investment that Xbox Insiders place in the program, and we put all that emotion into our work ourselves as well. So yeah, just wanted to remind everyone that the feeling is mutual.

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha (2404.240314-2000)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha (2404.240314-2000)

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Hey Xbox Insiders! We have a new Xbox Update Preview releasing to the Alpha ring today.

    It’s important we note that some updates made to these preview OS builds include background improvements that ensure a quality and stable build for Xbox consoles. We will continue to post these release notes, even when the noticeable changes to the UI are minimal or behind the scenes, so you’re aware when updates are coming to your device.

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details

    • OS Version: XB_FLT_2404ZN\25398.4026.240314-2000
    • Available: 2 p.m. PT – March 18, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – March 19, 2024

    Fixes Included

    Thanks to all the great feedback Xbox Insiders provide and the hard work of Xbox engineers, we are happy to announce the following fixes have been implemented with this build:

    System

    • Various updates to properly reflect local languages across the console.

    Known Issues

    While known issues may have been listed in previous Xbox Insider Release Notes, they are not being ignored! However, it may take Xbox engineers more time to find a solution. If you experience any of these issues, we ask that you please follow any guidance provided and file feedback with Report a Problem.

    Audio

    • Some users have reported experiencing intermittent audio issues across the dashboard, games, and apps.
      • Troubleshooting: If you do experience issues, please confirm your TV and all other equipment have the latest firmware installed. If you are unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance. You can also find additional troubleshooting tips here: Troubleshoot audio on your Xbox console.
      • Feedback: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware and troubleshooting further, please submit feedback via Report a Problem when you are experiencing the issue. Use the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”.
        • Note: Be sure to include as much information as possible about the issue, when it started, your setup, troubleshooting you have completed, and any additional information that will help us reproduce the issue.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to the network immediately on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.
      • Workaround: Wait a minute or two for the connection to establish. If your console still hasn’t connected, restart your Xbox from the Power Center or the guide then file feedback with Report a Problem. Learn more about restarting here: How to restart or power cycle your Xbox console.

    As always, be sure to use Report a problem to keep us informed of any issues you encounter. We may not be able to respond to everyone, but the data we’ll gather is crucial to finding a resolution.

    What Happens to Your Feedback

    If you’re an Xbox Insider looking for support, please visit the community subreddit. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are there to help with your concerns.

    When posting to the subreddit, please look through the most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to existing threads with the same issue before posting a new one. This helps us support you the best we can! Also, don’t forget to use “Report a Problem” before posting – the information shared in both places helps us understand your issue better.

    Thank you to every Xbox Insider in the subreddit today and welcome to the community if you’re just joining us! We love that it has become such a friendly and community-driven hub of conversation and support.

    For more information regarding the Xbox Insider Program follow us on Twitter. Keep an eye on future Xbox Insider Release Notes for more information regarding your Xbox Update Preview ring!

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha Skip-Ahead (2408.240314-2200)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha Skip-Ahead (2408.240314-2200)

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Hey Xbox Insiders! We have a new Xbox Update Preview releasing to the Alpha Skip-Ahead ring today.

    It’s important we note that some updates made to these preview OS builds include background improvements that ensure a quality and stable build for Xbox consoles. We will continue to post these release notes, even when the noticeable changes to the UI are minimal or behind the scenes, so you’re aware when updates are coming to your device.

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details

    • OS Version: XB_FLT_2408GE\26082.1502.240314-2200
    • Available: 2 p.m. PT – March 18, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – March 19, 2024

    Fixes Included

    Thanks to all the great feedback Xbox Insiders provide and the hard work of Xbox engineers, we are happy to announce the following fixes have been implemented with this build:

    Parties

    • Fixes to address an issue where no members would be listed when attempting to invite club members to a party.

    System

    • Various updates to properly reflect local languages across the console.

    Known Issues

    While known issues may have been listed in previous Xbox Insider Release Notes, they are not being ignored! However, it may take Xbox engineers more time to find a solution. If you experience any of these issues, we ask that you please follow any guidance provided and file feedback with Report a Problem.

    Audio

    • Some users have reported experiencing intermittent audio issues across the dashboard, games, and apps.
      • Troubleshooting: If you do experience issues, please confirm your TV and all other equipment have the latest firmware installed. If you are unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance. You can also find additional troubleshooting tips here: Troubleshoot audio on your Xbox console.
      • Feedback: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware and troubleshooting further, please submit feedback via Report a Problem when you are experiencing the issue. Use the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”.
        • Note: Be sure to include as much information as possible about the issue, when it started, your setup, troubleshooting you have completed, and any additional information that will help us reproduce the issue.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to the network immediately on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.
      • Workaround: Wait a minute or two for the connection to establish. If your console still hasn’t connected, restart your Xbox from the Power Center or the guide then file feedback with Report a Problem. Learn more about restarting here: How to restart or power cycle your Xbox console.

    As always, be sure to use Report a problem to keep us informed of any issues you encounter. We may not be able to respond to everyone, but the data we’ll gather is crucial to finding a resolution.

    What Happens to Your Feedback

    If you’re an Xbox Insider looking for support, please visit the community subreddit. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are there to help with your concerns.

    When posting to the subreddit, please look through the most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to existing threads with the same issue before posting a new one. This helps us support you the best we can! Also, don’t forget to use “Report a Problem” before posting – the information shared in both places helps us understand your issue better.

    Thank you to every Xbox Insider in the subreddit today and welcome to the community if you’re just joining us! We love that it has become such a friendly and community-driven hub of conversation and support.

    For more information regarding the Xbox Insider Program follow us on Twitter. Keep an eye on future Xbox Insider Release Notes for more information regarding your Xbox Update Preview ring!

    Website: LINK

  • Erschaffe eine neue Welt in Lightyear Frontier, ab dem 19. März erhältlich für Xbox Series X|S, PC und im Game Pass

    Erschaffe eine neue Welt in Lightyear Frontier, ab dem 19. März erhältlich für Xbox Series X|S, PC und im Game Pass

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    Zusammenfassung

    • Lightyear Frontier ist ab dem 19. März für Xbox Series X|S, PC und im Game Pass erhältlich
    • Errichte eine nachhaltige Exofarm in einer rätselhaften neuen Welt voller Geheimnisse
    • Kümmere Dich online mit bis zu drei Freund*innen um die Umwelt und rette den Planeten

    Erforsche einen fremden neuen Planeten, steuere und gestalte Deinen eigenen Mech-Anzug und arbeite online mit bis zu drei Freund*innen zusammen, um die Umwelt zu reinigen und nachhaltig zu gestalten − in Lightyear Frontier, das ab dem 19. März im Early Access für Xbox Series X|S, PC und im Game Pass erhältlich ist.

    Lightyear Frontier schlägt eine neue Richtung im Farming-Sim-Genre ein und schickt die Spieler*innen in ferne Galaxien auf einen wunderschönen Planeten. Hier geht es nicht um Zerstörung und Eroberung, sondern darum, eine lebenswerte Heimat für Dich und Deine Freund*innen zu erschaffen und zu erhalten. Setze Dich in Deinen Mech und lebe im Einklang mit der wunderbaren Natur, während Du aktiv dazu beiträgst, die natürliche Schönheit des Planeten wiederherzustellen.

    Finde den Mech, rette die Welt

    Während viele Games die Spieler*innen in fremde Welten einladen, um Monster zu bekämpfen oder das Universum vor einer intergalaktischen Bedrohung zu retten, liefert Lightyear Frontier frische Ideen. Anstatt zu zerstören, arbeiten die Spieler*innen daran, dieses vergessene Land zu kultivieren und ihre Beziehung zum Ökosystem zu verbessern. Gleichzeitig erschaffen sie eine nachhaltige und gesunde Umwelt für sich selbst und alle wilden Tiere, die den Planeten durchstreifen.

    Die Umweltverschmutzungen haben die Welt übernommen und verursachen Gefahren und Herausforderungen, die die Spieler*innen bewältigen müssen. Mit Deinem treuen Mech liegt es an Dir und bis zu drei Deiner Freund*innen, diese Verschmutzungen zu beseitigen. Benutze dafür Dein Schlauchwerkzeug oder rüste Deinen treuen Schlauch auf, um schädliches Unkraut zu entfernen, neue Gebiete freizuschalten und die Vergangenheit dieser Welt aufzudecken.

    Wenn Du die Regionen des Planeten wiederherstellst, wird die Landschaft erblühen und einst karge Orte werden mit Gras, Pflanzen und wilden Tieren zum Leben erweckt. Die Spieler*innen können diese wunderschönen neuen Landschaften erkunden, um neue Materialien zu sammeln und das Gehöft ihrer Träume zu errichten.

    Gemeinsam arbeiten, gemeinsam leben

    Die Arbeit eines Exofarmers oder einer Exofarmerin kann ziemlich anstrengend sein. Deshalb ermöglichtLightyear Frontier bis zu vier Spieler*innen, gemeinsam online auf Entdeckungsreise zu gehen − dank Crossplay! Mach Dich mit Deinen Freund*innen auf den Weg, um nicht nur eine Beziehung zum Ökosystem aufzubauen, sondern auch einen nachhaltigen Lebensraum zu schaffen − nicht nur für Dich, sondern auch für die Pflanzen und Tiere, die in den verschiedenen Regionen leben.

    Finde Materialien und erschaffe eine Traum-Exofarm für Dich und Deine Freund*innen. Jeder von Euch steuert seinen eigenen anpassbaren Mech und hilft dabei, eine vollwertige, retro-futuristische Farm zu bauen. Sammelt gemeinsam neue Materialien und arbeitet als Team zusammen, um Euren Lebensraum weiter auszubauen und neue Upgrades freizuschalten, die Euch bei der Rettung des Planeten helfen.

    Arbeitet gemeinsam daran, Feldfrüchte anzubauen und zu ernten, oder teilt die täglichen Aufgaben auf eurer Farm als Team auf, um die Arbeit effizienter zu gestalten. Während einige Spieler*innen neue Samen pflanzen, kümmern sich andere um die Bewässerung der Pflanzen, während der Rest Deines Teams auf Expeditionen nach neuen Ressourcen sucht, die Dir bei Deiner Mission helfen, eine nachhaltige Welt zu erschaffen.

    Geben und nehmen

    In anderen Farming-Simulationen nehmen die Spieler*innen üblicherweise nur, ohne etwas zurückzugeben. Anders ist es jedoch bei Lightyear Frontier, wo es darum geht, die Welt zu pflegen und am Leben zu erhalten. Nutze die Ressourcen des Landes für Deine Reise, aber fülle gleichzeitig diese Vorräte wieder auf, damit der Planet sich selbst versorgen kann.

    Wenn Du einen Baum fällst, trägst Du zum Erhalt des Planeten bei, indem Du neue Bäume pflanzt. Das Anpflanzen von Bäumen in der Nähe Deiner Farm erleichtert sogar zukünftige Zusammenkünfte Deiner Gruppe. Zahlreiche einzigartige Interaktionen warten darauf, entdeckt zu werden – sei es das Füttern von Tieren, um die Vorräte schneller aufzufüllen, oder das Entdecken von Aluminiumvorkommen, die Dir und Deinen Freund*innen beim Farmbau helfen.

    In einigen Regionen des Planeten leidet die Umwelt unter ungewöhnlicher Verschmutzung. Nutze die zusätzliche Mech-Power Deiner Freund*innen, um eine violetten Masse, die die Umwelt verschmutzt, schnell zu eliminieren und erreiche so Euer gemeinsames Ziel, den Planeten zu reformieren. Lightyear Frontier funktioniert nicht nur als Solo-Erlebnis, sondern entfaltet sein volles Potenzial, wenn Du Dich gemeinsam mit Freund*innen auf das Abenteuer begibst.

    Die Reise hat gerade erst begonnen

    Die Early Access-Veröffentlichung von Lightyear Frontier für Xbox Series X|S, PC und im Xbox Game Pass ist erst der Anfang. Neue Updates, neue Geheimnisse und neue Möglichkeiten, mit der Welt zu interagieren, sorgen dafür, dass Du immer wieder zurückkehrst. Die Rettung des Planeten ist nur der erste Schritt auf Deiner Reise.

    Website: LINK

  • Nurture A Brave New World in Lightyear Frontier, Coming to Xbox Game Pass on March 19

    Nurture A Brave New World in Lightyear Frontier, Coming to Xbox Game Pass on March 19

    Reading Time: 6 minutes

    Summary

    • Create a sustainable exofarm on a mysterious new world, filled with mysteries to uncover
    • Join up to three friends online and work together to clean up the planet by taking care of the environment
    • Lightyear Frontier launches into Early Access for Xbox Series X|S, PC, and via Game Pass March 19

    Explore a strange new planet, pilot and customize your very own mech suit and work with up to three friends online to clean up and create a sustainable environment in Lightyear Frontier, out in Early Access March 19 on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and via Game Pass.

    Take a new direction in the farming-sim genre, as Lightyear Frontier sends players beyond the stars to a beautiful planet, where the goal is not to destroy or conquer but to nurture and cultivate a homestead for you and your friends. Embark in your mech and live in harmony with the world’s wondrous nature, as you help restore the planet to its natural beauty.

    Find The Mech, Save The World

    Where many games invite players to alien worlds to battle waves of monsters or save the universe from an intergalactic threat, Lightyear Frontier brings fresh ideas to the table. Instead of embarking on a path of destruction, players will work to help cultivate this forgotten land, managing their relationship with the ecosystem as they create a sustainable, healthy environment for themselves and all the wildlife that roams the planet.

    Pollution has taken over the world, causing environmental hazards and challenges for players to overcome. With your trusty mech, it’s up to you and up to three of your friends to clean up the hazards that have soiled this world. Use your hose tool to power wash devastating pollution or equip your trusty hose to clean up noxious weeds to unlock new areas and uncover the past of this world.

    By restoring regions of the planet, the landscape will blossom with vegetation, as once barren locations return to life with grass, plants and wildlife. Players can explore these beautiful new vistas to secure new materials and build the farmstead of their dreams, giving you an extra incentive to bring the planet back to its former glory.

    Work Together, Live Together

    All this work can be tough for one exofarmer, which is why Lightyear Frontier allows up to four players to explore together online, with full cross play. Journey out with your friends to help manage your relationship with the ecosystem and create a sustainable, living space for not only you but the plants and wildlife that inhabit each region.

    Using the materials you find, create the dream exofarm for you and your friends, as you each pilot your very own customisable mech to help build a fully-fledged, retro-futuristic farm space. As you all gather new materials, you can perform as a team to build your living space further and unlock new upgrades to help in your journey of saving the planet.

    Work together to cultivate and harvest crops, or even assign daily duties on your farm as a group to help jobs pass with ease. Have one player plant new seeds whilst the other waters crops, and even send the rest of your team out on expeditions to excavate new resources to aid in your mission to create a sustainable world.

    Give Back What You Take

    While other farming simulation games will have you take from the world and not give back, Lightyear Frontier promotes keeping the world nurtured and alive. As you harvest resources from the land to aid your journey be sure to keep replenishing the supply to ensure the planet can remain self-sufficient.

    For every tree you cut down, help nurture the planet by replanting what you’ve taken. You can even plant trees much closer to your farmstead to make future gatherings easier for your group. There are many unique interactions to uncover, including feeding animals to help replenish supplies faster, such as aluminium deposits to help build you and your friend’s farm.

    With the peculiar pollution overtaking regions of the planet, you can also use the additional mech power of your friends to quickly hose down purple goo damaging the environment and achieve your goal together of reforming the planet. Lightyear Frontier not only works as a solo experience of keeping the planet green but is even better when you tackle the adventure together with your friends.

    The Journey Is Just Beginning

    The Early Access release of Lightyear Frontier on Xbox Series X|S and PC is only the beginning. As development continues toward the game’s full launch, new updates, unfurling mysteries and ways to interact with the world will keep you coming back for more. Nurturing the planet is only the first step in your journey, with many new adventures on the horizon.

    Lightyear Frontier (Game Preview) Pre-Order Bundle
    Xbox Live

    Lightyear Frontier (Game Preview) Pre-Order Bundle

    FRAME BREAK, Amplifier Studios

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 7

    ★★★★★

    $24.99 $22.49

    This game is a work in progress. It may or may not change over time or release as a final product. Purchase only if you are comfortable with the current state of the unfinished game. Start your interstellar homestead in this peaceful open-world farming adventure!
    Build your sustainable exofarm, grow alien crops, customize your mech, and explore a new world full of mystery with up to three friends! RELAX ON A PEACEFUL WORLD
    Live the quiet life as you take in the sights and sounds of your new home. Enjoy a low-stress, combat-free experience without the need to manage things like thirst and hunger. Just focus on farming, exploration, and discovery! Relax to a chill, atmospheric cosmic country soundtrack PILOT AND UPGRADE YOUR MECH
    Farm, build, and explore in a customizable mech! Choose from an array of tools, unlock new upgrades, and personalize your mech with an assortment of paint choices and mech parts. TAKE CARE OF YOUR ENVIRONMENT
    Carefully manage your relationship with the ecosystem, restoring the surrounding regions by cleaning up the mysterious pollution, clearing out invasive weeds, and mitigating the effects of hazards. Plant new trees to replace the ones you harvest, and ensure a sustainable homestead! PLANT, GROW, HARVEST
    Get your new life started by sowing a diverse harvest! Collect seeds of numerous plants as you explore the planet, growing them into fully-fledged harvests. Care for your fields by watering them consistently while enhancing their growth with fertilizer. Trade the harvested crops for credits or turn them into materials for buildings and upgrades. CREATE YOUR NEW HOME
    Create the exofarm of your dreams as you turn resources into buildings! Grow your presence as you expand your homestead from basic structures to a fully-fledged, retro-futuristic farm. Make your place your own with alternative color palettes and decorations. EXPLORE A PLANET WITH A PAST
    Venture out into the wilderness to discover this new world’s ancient secrets. Team up with your friendly scanner satellite to decipher clues spread across the planet’s varied environments and uncover lost knowledge. FARM AND EXPLORE ALONE OR AS A GROUP
    While your mech can handle anything the world throws at you, feel free to invite up to three friends to join you on this journey of settling and exploration! Pool your resources to create the perfect exofarm, and share the rewarding feeling of a good harvest with your pals!

    Website: LINK

  • Season 6 of the Hello World podcast is here

    Season 6 of the Hello World podcast is here

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Through the Hello World podcast, we help to connect computing educators around the world and share their experiences. In each episode, we expand on a topic from a recent Hello World magazine issue. After 5 seasons, and a break last year, we are back with season 6 today.

    Hello World logo.

    Episode 1: Do kids still need to learn how to code?

    In the recent ‘Teaching & AI’ issue of Hello World, our CEO Philip Colligan discussed what AI means for computing education, including for learning to program. And our first new podcast episode is all about this question, which every computing educator has probably thought about at least once in recent months: Do kids still need to learn how to code?

    Joining my co-host Veronica and me are two computing educators: Pete Dring, Head of Computing at Fulford School in York, and Chris Coetzee, a computer science teacher for 24 years and currently a PhD student in Computer Science Education at Abertay Dundee. Given the recent developments in AI-based code generators, we talk about whether such tools will remove our learners’ need to learn to code or simply change what coding, and learning to code, looks like*.

    What’s coming up in future episodes?

    New episode of season 6 will come out every 2 weeks. In each episode we explore computing, coding, and digital making education by delving into an exciting topic together with our guests: experts, practitioners, and other members of the Hello World community.

    Also in season 6, we’ll explore:

    The role of computing communities

    We discuss the value and importance of being connected to other computing educators through the many different teaching communities that exist around the world. What makes effective communities, and how do we build and sustain them?

    A group of students and a teacher at the Coding Academy in Telangana.

    Why is understanding cybersecurity so important?

    From classroom lessons to challenges and competitions, there are lots of opportunities for learners to discover cybersecurity. There are also many pitfalls where learners’ online activities put them at risk of breaking the law. We discuss some of these pitfalls along with the many career opportunities in cybersecurity.

    How to develop as a computing educator?

    What is involved in becoming an effective computing educator? What knowledge, skills, and behaviours are needed, and how do we go about developing them? We sit down with teacher trainers and trainees to explore this topic.

    Two learners and a teacher in a physical computing lesson.

    What is the state of computing education and where is it heading?

    Computing education has come a long way in the last decade in terms of practice and policy, as well as research. Together with our guests we discuss where computing education is today around the world, and we consider the lessons we can learn and the challenges ahead

    What is the role of AI in your classroom?

    AI continues to be a disruptive technology in many spaces, and the classroom is no exception. We hear examples of practices and approaches being explored by teachers in the classroom.

    If you’ve not listened to the Hello World podcast yet, there are 5 whole seasons for you to discover. We talk about everything from ecology and quantum computing to philosophy, ethics, and inclusion, and our conversations always focus on the practicalities of teaching in the classroom.

    Many of our podcast guests are Hello World authors, so if you’re an educator who wants to share your insights into how to teach young people about digital technology, please let us know. Your words could end up in the pages as well as on the airwaves of Hello World.

    You’ll find the upcoming Hello World season and past episodes on your favourite podcast platform, including YouTube now, where you can also subscribe to never miss an episode. Alternatively, you can listen here via your browser.

    * If you want to dive into the newest research on programming education with and without AI, check out our current seminar series.

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Xbox App [2403.1000.48.0]

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Xbox App [2403.1000.48.0]

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    Hey Xbox Insiders! We are releasing a new Xbox App for Windows build to Xbox Insiders who are enrolled in the PC Gaming Insiders preview! Thank you all for being Xbox Insiders. Continue read to learn about fixes and known issues. Make sure that you update the Xbox app, and Gaming Services to ensure you get all of the fixes!

    Versions of PC Gaming prerelease products:

    Xbox App version: 2403.1000.48.0

    • Released: 5:00 p.m. PT – Mar 15th 2024

    Game Bar version: 7.124.3131.0

    • Released: 5:00 p.m. PT – Mar 15th 2024

    Xbox App Bug Fixes:

    • Fixed an issue where installed games might show “Install Now” messaging in Store.
    • Various fixes to UI/navigation in My Library.

    How to Get Xbox Insider Support

    Don’t forget! If you encounter any issues, you can leave feedback by navigating to the feedback option on your profile menu.

    You can also provide feedback, as well as interact with the community, on the Xbox Insiders Subreddit. Please be as specific as possible when providing feedback.

    When posting to the subreddit, please look through most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to threads with the same issue before posting a brand new one. This helps us support you the best we can!

    For more information regarding the Xbox Insider Program follow us on Twitter. Keep an eye on future Xbox Insider Release Notes for more information!

    Thank you to everyone who participates in the Xbox Insider Program! Your feedback helps us continue to build a great gaming experience in the Xbox app on PC. 

    Website: LINK

  • DIY “Staccato” controller drives Tesla coils

    DIY “Staccato” controller drives Tesla coils

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    The Tesla coil, patented by legendary inventor Nikola Tesla in 1891, is a kind of resonant transformer circuit capable of producing sparks of high-voltage alternating-current electricity. They don’t have many practical uses today beyond novelty, but they were commonly used in spark-gap radio transmitters in the early 20th century. The sparks generated by a Tesla coil would emit strong bursts of radio waves and operators could encode information through patterns of pulses, similar to a wired telegraph. But those sparks are difficult to control, which is why Mirko Pavleski designed this Arduino-based “staccato” controller for Tesla coils.

    The purpose of Pavleski’s device is to gain better control over a Tesla coil, with the goal of generating longer sparks with less power. It does so by providing very granular control over the length of each pulse, its intensity, and the interval between pulses. A Tesla coil requires a lot of voltage to create a spark, but very little current. That means that the total power needed to produce a spark is minimal and relatively safe to oversee with a microcontroller.

    In this case, Pavleski used an Arduino Nano to manage the circuit. A control panel lets the user adjust the parameters, then the Arduino does the rest. Power comes in from mains via a 12V transformer and the Arduino controls the current going from that to the Tesla coil with a standard triac, with a large capacitor providing some filtering. Almost everything else comes down to the Arduino’s programming, which ultimately determines the characteristics of the electricity supplied to the Tesla coil. Because that’s going through a triac, the Arduino can “dim” the voltage, as opposed to simply toggling it like a relay would.

    [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNNYee-Tons?feature=oembed&w=500&h=281]

    This will let Pavleski perform more in-depth experiments with Tesla coils.

    The post DIY “Staccato” controller drives Tesla coils appeared first on Arduino Blog.

    Website: LINK

  • Stolen Realm Brings a New Twist on Baldur’s Gate 3-Style Combat to Xbox

    Stolen Realm Brings a New Twist on Baldur’s Gate 3-Style Combat to Xbox

    Reading Time: 6 minutes
    • A step beyond scratching the Baldur’s Gate 3 itch.
    • Synchronous turn-system.
    • Fast-paced tactical co-op combat.

    Stolen Realm is a game that’s been partly inspired by the work of Larian Studios, via the fantastic Divinity: Original Sin games, so while we’ve been finishing up Stolen Realm over the last few months, it’s been fantastic to see Baldur’s Gate 3 explode and show there is a huge appetite for games like ours. If you’re one of those Xbox fans looking for a new game to scratch that Baldur’s Gate 3 itch, we hope Stolen Realm will do that for you. However, we also want to tell you about the unique twists our game has that helps speed up combat, keeps you making fun choices and makes it perfect for co-op.

    Stolen Realm has a synchronous turn system.  This means that all the players on your team can all take their turns at the same time, the enemies likewise. With this system, our game offers the same kind of tactical combat you’d expect from the likes of Baldur’s Gate 3 and Divinity: Original Sun, but with combat encounters that move at a far quicker pace. This means that when you’re playing co-op with your friends, there’s no waiting around for your turn while your buddy ponders his next move. You’ll be onto the next step of your adventure in no time, so you can spend less time waiting and more time having friendly argument about whether you should go for another combat encounter, a special event, or some treasure as you move through our games diverse fantasy environments. 

    SR axewwnahor

    Speaking of co-op, we’ve built a really flexible six-player drop-in/drop-out system that means it’s super easy to see your friends playing on Xbox Live, jump in for a few rounds and then leave again. The game automatically balances itself based on how many people are playing, so the game will simply adapt the experience to make sure that you’re coming up against the right level of challenge based on how many of you are playing together at any given moment. Friction-free multiplayer is something Xbox has always been good at, so we think Stolen Realm fits in perfectly in that respect!

    Our approach to combat is something that we’ve tried to implement across the whole game. We’ve designed Stolen Realm to be an RPG that focuses on the best part of RPGs: making choices. Whether it’s what move you will make next in combat, what skill you’re going to take next, what to do when a demon offers you a deal in one of our attribute-altering D&D style special events, or whether to switch out your armour and weapons based on what you’ve looted in your latest encounter. We’ve opened up those choices with a highly-flexible class system that lets you take abilities from any class-tree you wish (there are over 300 skills in the game), so you can make some really creative builds. We’ve also got over 700 unique items to discover, each of which can be customised with modifiers. These include the epicly-named Abbadon the Soul Crusher, a mace that raises slain enemies as skeletal warriors to fight for you and The Bloodletter, a cursed sword that grants additional power at the cost of your lifeblood, to give you a small taste of what you can discover! Basically, there’s a lot of fun ways your choices can impact your character and your adventure and Stolen Realm keeps you making those fun choices as often as possible.   

    SR axewwnahor

    When it comes to choice, we’ve also built a few of modes for you to choose from! Stolen Realm has a full campaign (with six difficulty levels), a hardcore mode for those who want to deal with permadeath, and even a roguelike mode. In roguelike mode, you gain a level after every battle and can choose from a set of random skills and items, making every run unique. Even if you fail, each run helps towards permanently unlocking new characters and passive skills for future runs.

    Myself and the team want to take the time to thank you for reading about our game, as well as our awesome community for the feedback that’s help make Stolen Realm a better game (and made us retain talking bears as a feature), as well streamers like Sacriel, Shroud, Anthony_Kongphan, Strippin, Sequisha, Fairlight_Excalibur and lots of others who we can’t mention because it would make this list too long, for singing the game’s praises and raising the profile of a debut game made by a tiny team. I hope our words about the game have made you eager to begin making your own choices and jump into Stolen Realm with your friends. Enjoy your adventure, available right now on Xbox!

    Stolen Realm
    Xbox Live

    Stolen Realm

    Burst2Flame Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 30

    ★★★★★

    $19.99

    TURN-BASED STRATEGY MEETS ACTION RPG IN THIS DUNGEON CRAWLING LOOTER Stolen Realm is a simultaneous turn-based tactical dungeon crawling looter with action RPG elements where you control up to 6 heroes, solo or through online co-op, venturing forth in adventures set in a high-fantasy, low-poly world. Stolen Realm features an innovative turn-based combat system where simultaneous turns allow every team to take their actions at once, creating quick combat encounters that blend the tactical depth of titles like Divinity: Original Sin with the thrill of a fast-paced action RPG. Every battle scales based on the number of players involved, so you can easily jump in and out of the game even in the same playthrough! With a highly customisable class system, Stolen Realm allows you to create traditional RPG classes or break the mold to forge a unique champion of your own as you draw from a pool of hundreds of possible skills. Make a spell-slinging assassin, a priest born of frost, or a shadow-infused knight. Further customize your build by earning and reforging loot that truly changes the way you play: wield Abbadon the Soul Crusher, a mythic mace that raises slain enemies as skeletal warriors to fight for you, or unsheath the Bloodletter, a cursed sword that grants additional power at the cost of your lifeblood. D&D-like events where attribute-based rolls will have permanent effects on your character add yet another layer to building a character that is truly your own. Anything is possible in this title that keeps compelling choices at the forefront of your experience. Keeping the core appeal of RPGs at its forefront, Stolen Realm ensures you spend all your time, fighting, building your characters and making compelling choices that determine your immediate path or effect your character, rather than getting bogged down in side quests and other RPG-bloat. After each battle, pick your path between story events, resource gathering, shops and treasure rooms, until you get to the final boss of each procedurally generated adventure. If you’re up to a challenge, crank the difficulty up with 6 different difficulty levels – or pick Hardcore Mode with permadeath, where every battle can be the last! Also features Roguelike Mode, a fast paced version of the game where you can mix and match builds that are simply not possible in the traditional campaign! Carve a place in history with your sword and magic. Rise to honor and glory in the battlefield. Recover the Stolen Realm.

    Website: LINK

  • How Building Meaningful Relationships is at the Heart of Wild Bastards

    How Building Meaningful Relationships is at the Heart of Wild Bastards

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    From the veteran team behind Void Bastards and Card Hunter, Wild Bastards has you travel from planet to planet to recruit, manage and gun sling with a team of 13 outlaws, each of whom has their own weaponry, special power, and growth tree. On planets, you’ll wrangle loot and start showdowns that are then played out in intense, bite-sized shootouts. The Wild Bastards were the most deadly gang in the galaxy until a posse from the puritanical magnate Jebediah Chaste eliminated one outlaw after another. Faced with their own mortality, the two remaining members have teamed up with the Drifter, a mysterious sentient spacecraft, to find and resurrect the dead gang members as they flee to the mythical Homestead. Key Features Heart-Pounding Showdowns – Prove you’re the ultimate gunslinger by blasting an array of enemies in bullet-flying shootouts. Tactical FPS Combat – Use your wits to overcome crafty enemies that utilize cover, flank you, and employ a huge variety of special moves from teleportation to homing poisonous quills. Strategize for Victory – Evaluate each planet’s terrain, enemies, and traits before selecting which gang members you want to land there. Collect items, level up, and use special locations carefully to turn the odds in your favor! 13 Outlaws to Play – Rebuild a gang of 13 outlaws, each with their own unique weapon, stunt, personality, relationships, and ability tree. Build & Maintain Relationships – The gang know each other well, but that doesn’t mean they like each other. It’s your job to manage their dynamic relationships, but good luck getting feuding outlaws to ride together. Keep The Gang Thriving – Accumulate resources to heal injured gang members, level up characters, improve relationships, and more. An Ever-Changing, Lawless Galaxy – Roam the procedurally-generated galactic sectors and planets with varying parameters such as gravity, terrain features, weather, and more. Challenge Mode – After completing the main campaign, a challenge mode unlocks to offer a sequence of challenge sectors with increasingly difficult levels and mutators to modify the play experience.

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha Skip-Ahead (2408.240312-2200)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha Skip-Ahead (2408.240312-2200)

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Hey Xbox Insiders! We have a new Xbox Update Preview releasing to the Alpha Skip-Ahead ring today.

    It’s important we note that some updates made to these preview OS builds include background improvements that ensure a quality and stable build for Xbox consoles. We will continue to post these release notes, even when the noticeable changes to the UI are minimal or behind the scenes, so you’re aware when updates are coming to your device.

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details

    • OS Version: XB_FLT_2408GE\26080.1505.240312-2200
    • Available: 2 p.m. PT – March 15, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – March 16, 2024

    New Features and Experiences

    We have exciting news! Alpha Skip-Ahead users can expect something new coming to their Xbox Update Preview.

    Settings – Access Restrictions

    We have added two new access restrictions options for installing and uninstalling games and apps. To find them, navigate to Settings > System > Access restrictions.

    Fixes Included

    Thanks to all the great feedback Xbox Insiders provide and the hard work of Xbox engineers, we are happy to announce the following fixes have been implemented with this build:

    System

    • Various updates to properly reflect local languages across the console.

    Known Issues

    While known issues may have been listed in previous Xbox Insider Release Notes, they are not being ignored! However, it may take Xbox engineers more time to find a solution. If you experience any of these issues, we ask that you please follow any guidance provided and file feedback with Report a Problem.

    Audio

    • Some users have reported experiencing intermittent audio issues across the dashboard, games, and apps.
      • Troubleshooting: If you do experience issues, please confirm your TV and all other equipment have the latest firmware installed. If you are unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance. You can also find additional troubleshooting tips here: Troubleshoot audio on your Xbox console.
      • Feedback: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware and troubleshooting further, please submit feedback via Report a Problem when you are experiencing the issue. Use the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”.
        • Note: Be sure to include as much information as possible about the issue, when it started, your setup, troubleshooting you have completed, and any additional information that will help us reproduce the issue.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to the network immediately on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.
      • Workaround: Wait a minute or two for the connection to establish. If your console still hasn’t connected, restart your Xbox from the Power Center or the guide then file feedback with Report a Problem. Learn more about restarting here: How to restart or power cycle your Xbox console.

    As always, be sure to use Report a problem to keep us informed of any issues you encounter. We may not be able to respond to everyone, but the data we’ll gather is crucial to finding a resolution.

    What Happens to Your Feedback

    If you’re an Xbox Insider looking for support, please visit the community subreddit. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are there to help with your concerns.

    When posting to the subreddit, please look through the most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to existing threads with the same issue before posting a new one. This helps us support you the best we can! Also, don’t forget to use “Report a Problem” before posting – the information shared in both places helps us understand your issue better.

    Thank you to every Xbox Insider in the subreddit today and welcome to the community if you’re just joining us! We love that it has become such a friendly and community-driven hub of conversation and support.

    For more information regarding the Xbox Insider Program follow us on Twitter. Keep an eye on future Xbox Insider Release Notes for more information regarding your Xbox Update Preview ring!

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha (2404.240313-2200)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha (2404.240313-2200)

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    Hey Xbox Insiders! We have a new Xbox Update Preview releasing to the Alpha ring today.

    It’s important we note that some updates made to these preview OS builds include background improvements that ensure a quality and stable build for Xbox consoles. We will continue to post these release notes, even when the noticeable changes to the UI are minimal or behind the scenes, so you’re aware when updates are coming to your device.

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details

    • OS Version: XB_FLT_2404ZN\25398.4024.240313-2200
    • Available: 2 p.m. PT – March 15, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – March 16, 2024

    New Features and Experiences

    We have exciting news! Alpha users can expect something new coming to their Xbox Update Preview.

    Discord Voice – Soundboard Audio

    Xbox players who have joined Discord Voice will now be able to hear soundboard audio from others in the channel or call. A volume slider for soundboard audio can be found in the Discord Voice options in the Guide. At this time, you cannot trigger soundboard audio from the console.

    Settings – Access Restrictions

    We have added two new access restrictions options for installing and uninstalling games and apps. To find them, navigate to Settings > System > Access restrictions.

    Fixes Included

    Thanks to all the great feedback Xbox Insiders provide and the hard work of Xbox engineers, we are happy to announce the following fixes have been implemented with this build:

    System

    • Various updates to properly reflect local languages across the console.

    Known Issues

    While known issues may have been listed in previous Xbox Insider Release Notes, they are not being ignored! However, it may take Xbox engineers more time to find a solution. If you experience any of these issues, we ask that you please follow any guidance provided and file feedback with Report a Problem.

    Audio

    • Some users have reported experiencing intermittent audio issues across the dashboard, games, and apps.
      • Troubleshooting: If you do experience issues, please confirm your TV and all other equipment have the latest firmware installed. If you are unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance. You can also find additional troubleshooting tips here: Troubleshoot audio on your Xbox console.
      • Feedback: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware and troubleshooting further, please submit feedback via Report a Problem when you are experiencing the issue. Use the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”.
        • Note: Be sure to include as much information as possible about the issue, when it started, your setup, troubleshooting you have completed, and any additional information that will help us reproduce the issue.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to the network immediately on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.
      • Workaround: Wait a minute or two for the connection to establish. If your console still hasn’t connected, restart your Xbox from the Power Center or the guide then file feedback with Report a Problem. Learn more about restarting here: How to restart or power cycle your Xbox console.

    As always, be sure to use Report a problem to keep us informed of any issues you encounter. We may not be able to respond to everyone, but the data we’ll gather is crucial to finding a resolution.

    What Happens to Your Feedback

    If you’re an Xbox Insider looking for support, please visit the community subreddit. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are there to help with your concerns.

    When posting to the subreddit, please look through the most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to existing threads with the same issue before posting a new one. This helps us support you the best we can! Also, don’t forget to use “Report a Problem” before posting – the information shared in both places helps us understand your issue better.

    Thank you to every Xbox Insider in the subreddit today and welcome to the community if you’re just joining us! We love that it has become such a friendly and community-driven hub of conversation and support.

    For more information regarding the Xbox Insider Program follow us on Twitter. Keep an eye on future Xbox Insider Release Notes for more information regarding your Xbox Update Preview ring!

    Website: LINK

  • Obtain New Member Rewards and Perks This Month with EA Play

    Obtain New Member Rewards and Perks This Month with EA Play

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    March continues to bring more content to EA Play members! Whether you’re on the battlefield, racetrack, field, or pitch, there’s more rewards for all types of gamers.

    EA Play members also get hours or trials of some of the latest EA games like EA Sports FC 24, EA Sports UFC 5, and EA Sports PGA Tour, in addition to unlimited access to full versions of top games like Dead Space, Wild Hearts, Super Mega Baseball 4, and more through The Play List.

    A full list of all the great content coming to EA Play in March can be found below:

    EA Play March 2024
    • Apex Legends Tsukumo Weapon Charm – Now to April 1
    • Battlefield 2042 ‘Great Outdoors’ Mackay Outfit – Now to March 26
    • EA Sports FC 24 Clubs FC Pro Black Glasses – Now to April 25
    • EA Sports FC 24 VOLTA FC Pro Neck Tattoo and COINS – Now to April 25
    • EA Sports FC 24 Ultimate Team Draft Token – Now to April 14
    • F1 23 5000 XP Boost – Now to March 31
    • Madden NFL 24 MUT March Pack – Now to March 31
    • WRC Season 3 Rewards – Now to April 8
    • NHL 24 Biosuit Set – Now to March 27
    • NHL 24 WOC Coins – Now to March 27
    • NHL 24 WOC Battle Pass XP Modifier – Now to March 27

    In addition to the above, Game Pass Ultimate members can claim more member benefits in the Xbox Perks section in the Game Pass App or on console. This month’s perks include:

    • Apex Legends Weapon Charm Bonanza – Now to April 2
    • F1 23 11,000 PitCoin – Now to April 1
    • Battlefield 2042 Season 7 Field Kit – March 19 to April 23

    Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Xbox Game Pass PC members receive EA Play at no additional cost with their Game Pass subscription. Members enjoy great player benefits, including in-game challenges and rewards, special member-only content, trials of select latest titles like EA Sports FC 24, EA Sports WRC, and EA Sports NHL 24, access to a collection of EA’s best-loved series and top titles, and 10% off purchases of Electronic Arts digital content.

    Visit the EA Play page for more details, and to stay up to date on the latest from EA Play, follow EA Play on, Instagram, or X (formally Twitter). Please see EA.com/EA-Play/Terms for terms and conditions.

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