Schlagwort: nextgen games

The Slayer class is available starting today for Phantasy Star Online 2 New Genesis, the online RPG series that lets you create your own unique hero and take them on endless adventures.

To say that Slayer benefits from movement would be a huge understatement. This class thrives on movement. Slayer benefits from agility that is built into their actions, or Photon Arts (PA), in addition to unlocking additional actions in their Class Skill Tree. Intrigued? You should be, as this class deserves a deeper look and considerable practice if mastery is desired.

There’s Nothing Normal About Slayer

The Slayer’s normal attack is a triple threat, in that they perform a series of attacks that can combo up to three times. In addition, holding the normal attack button will cause the attack to become charged. As though these moves didn’t already bely the phrase “normal attack,” there are also two levels of charge, wherein the first level of charge releases a 5-shot ranged attack and the second level of charge provokes a powerful attack, though takes longer to deploy. The Slayer’s normal attacks become even more specialized with the Class Skill “Charged Blade.” This allows the player to not only close the distance to their enemy, but also perform a thrust attack by pressing the Weapon Action button at just the right time after a charged, normal attack. Finally, normal attacks made by the Slayer can also benefit Photon Arts, as the Class Skill “Relentless Blade” provides an additional attack when the normal attack button is pressed at just the right time while performing a Photon Art. As you can see, normal attacks can be used effectively in varying combat situations, which makes it a necessity to gain a general understanding of them to play Slayer.

The Focus of Slayer

Gunblades are not a class-specific weapon, and anyone who takes Slayer as a sub-class and picks up the Slayer Class Skill Gunblade Focus Gauge can use it. As focus builds through landing attacks with the Gunblade and the gear level increases on the gauge, extra benefits such as increased attack potency and reduced PP consumption are triggered. However, not landing attacks for a certain period will cause the gear level to reset completely. This gives new meaning to the phrase “don’t lose your focus on the battlefield”.

The Art of Slayer

With every class, there is a certain beauty to a series of well-time Photon Arts. Performing the optimal pattern of PAs can not only control the fight and mitigate damage taken but keep the player well-supplied with Photon Power (PP) and healing as well. The optimal pattern of PAs for the Slayer is something that will probably become the next hot topic (though I’ll take a stab at it in one of the following sections), as there are a lot of variations when movement or enemy behavior is considered. Optimal Slayer combat is not a simple perform x, perform y, use big attack, perform x, and repeat style of play. No, you’ll need a deeper understanding to truly master it.

Their first Photon Art, Shifting Spica, unleashes two fast, short-range attacks when performed while stationary. With movement, the Slayer charges their enemy with a piercing attack and then fires off a close-range photon bullet. This gap closer may not be useful in every combat situation, but for enemies that like to move around, it can shave off seconds of repositioning.

Flowing Sirius is quite handy in solo and group combat, as it causes the Slayer to perform several slash attacks when stationary. If this PA is performed repeatedly, the second attack will become stronger. With movement, the Slayer will perform successive area attacks while gaining altitude over the field. Alternating these two forms of Flowing Sirius is an excellent way to reposition yourself and take advantage of your enemy’s placement.

Reaping Regulus is a handy momentary reprieve when performed while stationary, as executing it means beating a hasty retreat after quickly chucking a photon bomb into the fray. This PA truly shines during the momentary interlude between engagements though, as performing it in motion means throwing a photon bomb ahead of you at your next group of hostiles. Using either form of this PA is a great way to add a few ticks to your Gunblade Focus Gauge.

Easily the most photogenic PA is Waving Rigel, which sees the Slayer slamming their weapon into the ground and creating a shockwave of power that slams into nearby enemies. If done while mid-air (perhaps after performing the motion variant of Flowing Sirius) the Slayer will slam to the ground before unleashing the shockwave. When performed in motion, the Slayer will instead rise while waves of power affect the surrounding area.

The Drive of Slayer

So how does it feel behind the wheel of Slayer? It’s like driving a finely tuned but temperamental sports car. See, Slayer essentially has 8 Photon Arts, as every one of them can be modified with movement, so it takes a while to learn the ropes. Generally, the basic playstyle against solo enemies would see you using the stationary form of Shifting Spica, followed by the stationary form of Flowing Sirius, and repeating this (interspersed with normal attacks) until the Active Skill Unleashed Rage is available and you’ve made some progress on the Gunblade Focus Gauge. Then, follow these two PAs with Unleashed Rage (which instantly adds gears to your Focus Gauge, hopefully taking it to max) and then Gunblade Focus Overdrive. From there, either continue the above pattern, or use Gunblade Focus Overdrive again to unleash a single, powerful attack.

In combat with multiple enemies, the pattern is basically the same, you would just replace the two PAs with the movement version of Flowing Sirius and the movement version of Reaping Regulus. Then you would repeat this (interspersed with normal attacks) until Unleashed Rage is available and your Gunblade Focus Gauge is partially filled. Execute in the same manner as above and begin again if there are still enemies alive.

The patterns above will help you get comfortable with Slayer and the Gunblade Focus Gauge while also allowing you to learn the other forms and PAs at your pace. Once comfortable, remember to use a normal attack at the right time during a PA to activate the extra attack provided by the Class Skill Relentless Blade. Also, after dodging or guarding by using the Gunblade Weapon Action, use a normal attack or the Weapon Action a second time to perform a counterattack with the Class Skill Blade Counter. The normal attack counter fires a quick shot and can be used in repetition for a chain of counterattacks, whereas the Weapon Action counter performs a long combo of attacks. There are even more nuances to Slayer after considering their Class Skills, and players will have a great time figuring out how to best use them in varying situations.

Slayer is great fun, and those who like a challenge with their gameplay will truly appreciate it. Slayer released on April 12. If you managed to acquire some Slayer Operation Prep Tickets from the Limited-time Tasks that were available during the Get Ready for Slayer! Campaign, you can exchange them at the designated Exchange Shop in any of the region hubs until June 6. Exchange Shop items include several desirable Gunblades and Gunblade Weapon Camos.

If you’re a new or returning player, now is a great time to check out Phantasy Star Online 2 New Genesis to see if Slayer is right for you! Download the game from the Windows Store for free on PC, Xbox One, or Xbox Series X|S and get ready to slay all day!

Phantasy Star Online 2 New Genesis

SEGA Corporation

☆☆☆☆☆ 820

★★★★★

Xbox One X Enhanced

Phantasy Star Online 2 New Genesis, the latest chapter in the Phantasy Star Online 2 series, is here at last!
It’s time to jump into adventures beyond imagination! This new adventure takes place on a vast open field! Up to 32 people can enjoy the adventure in a new world with beautifully-evolved graphics! The simple and intuitive controls developed in the series up to now have also evolved! A new dimension of battle with a variety of powerful enemies awaits! The new actions Photon Dash and Photon Glide allow you to traverse across the vast open field with ease! Of course, the ultimate in character creation has also evolved. Create your own main character that will be unique throughout the world, and head out to a new adventure! ・The core game is Free-to-Play, but there is certain paid content that can be purchased. ・The Phantasy Star Online 2 New Genesis game that can be downloaded with this content is the same as that included in other editions. You do not have to download this if it is already installed. ・Proceeding with play in Phantasy Star Online 2 New Genesis will allow you to play Phantasy Star Online 2. ・Please log in with an administrator account to play this game.

Team Xbox continues to bring new ways to make Xbox better, with you at the center, as we refine the experience and deliver brand-new features based on your feedback. This month’s update will start to roll out this week and offers a refreshed Xbox search experience and an adjustable active hours power setting.

Refreshed Xbox Search Experience 

Looking for your next favorite game, movie, and more? You can search for games, entertainment, and apps using the refreshed console search page. This includes a sleek new look, gallery-style results, visible filter categories navigable with RB/LB, the option to “search on YouTube” within the Movies & TV tab, and more. To open the search experience, tap the search button on the top of the dashboard, find the magnifying glass icon within the guide, or press Y on your controller anywhere within the console UI. 

Adjustable active hours power setting for your Xbox console  

You can adjust your power settings at any time by going to Settings > General > Power options. If you select Shutdown (energy saving), it will help conserve power and enable carbon aware updates on your Xbox. If you select the Sleep power option, you can now adjust active hours to have the console ready to wake up when you’re likely to use it and shut down at the times you select to save energy. When your Xbox’s active hours are done for the day, the console will fully shut down and draw 0.5 watts as compared to 10-15 watts while active.   

With the Xbox April Update, if you have the Sleep power option selected on your Xbox, you can configure your console active hours, which default to “always active” unless you change them. During your selected active hours your Xbox will boot quickly and be available for activities like Remote Play and mobile game installs. 

Help shape the future of Xbox 

Stay tuned to Xbox Wire for future updates and all the latest and greatest Xbox related news. For support related to Xbox updates, visit the official Xbox Support site.

We love hearing from the community, whether you have a suggestion for a new feature that you’d like to see added, or you want to give feedback on existing features that could use some improvement. From game capture and share improvements, new ways to connect with your gaming community, and so much more, we’re always looking for ways to improve Xbox experiences for gamers around the world. If you’d like to help create the future of Xbox and get early access to new features, download the Xbox Insider Hub on your Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, or Windows PC today. Let us know what you think! 

Lots of things are better with friends. Pizza. Movies. Games. On that latter point, a new Recruit A Friend program that will be kicking off in Season 03 of Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0, where players can enjoy some awesome in-game rewards, including some Double XP tokens, just for signing up!

The Recruit A Friend program will be running throughout the entirety of Season 03 in Warzone 2.0 and we’ve got a bunch of the details outlined below. And make sure you check out the official Call of Duty Blog for all things related to the upcoming Season 03.

Who Can Play?

The Recruit A Friend program will be available to all players who are at least 18 years old and have an Activision account in good standing (players in Austria, Argentina, New Zealand, Belgium, Peru, Czech Republic, Denmark, Norway, Ireland, Philippines, and Poland cannot participate in this program).

Players will be grouped into two categories: Recruiters and Recruits. Recruiters must have at least three hours of total gameplay completed in Warzone 2.0 and an Activision account that’s at least 60 days old; Recruits must have an Activision account that’s less than 7 days old and must not have played Warzone 2.0 for more than 60 days.

Recruiters and Recruits

Recruiters will have the opportunity to recruit up to three eligible players to join them during this program. Also, after accepting the invite, Recruits will automatically be connected as Activision friends with their Recruiter making it easier in the future to team-up on future deployments together.

If you signed up for the program after receiving and accepting an invite from another player, you will officially be marked down as a Recruit; Recruits can only participate in the program alongside their Recruiter. Also, you may only participate in the Recruit A Friend program once, either as a Recruit or Recruiter. Finally, once you’re recruited, you cannot be recruited by another player.

How do I Invite Friends to the Recruit A Friend Program?

First, visit the Recruit A Friend official website (link coming soon) once it goes live starting on April 14 and select “Get Started.” Log in with your Activision account and you’ll then be taken to the program’s dashboard. From there, copy your link on the dashboard and share it with up to three friends you want to recruit. Once accepted, you’ll see their usernames on the Recruit A Friend dashboard. Now comes the best part…

How to Complete Challenges and Earn Rewards

Now that you’ve recruited a friend (or have been recruited), it’s time to party up and jump into Warzone 2.0 and complete the specific “Recruit A Friend In-game Challenges” listed in the game. You can also find these within the in-gameRecruit A Friend dashboard to check and track your challenge status – Recruits can earn up to three free rewards while Recruiters can earn up to nine. Both will be eligible for the 2XP sign-up bonus.

All this news is following details around the next big free content drop with the start of Season 03 for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II and Warzone 2.0. Jump in and experience the return of Gunfight, launching with four small maps that are perfect for 2v2. Also get ready to experience five new Multiplayer maps, gear up for Raid Episode 03, deploy as rival Operators Alejandro and Valeria, and more! You can get full details on Season 03 for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II and Warzone 2.0 here on the official Call of Duty Blog.

Call of Duty®: Warzone™ 2.0

Activision Publishing Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆ 2431

★★★★★

Welcome to Warzone™ 2.0, the massive free-to-play combat arena which now features the brand-new map, Al Mazrah. Turn the Heat Up
Join forces with your friends and jump into a sprawling battleground in the metropolitan area and rural outskirts within the Republic of Adal. Loot For Rewards
Discover supply boxes and complete contracts to build your arsenal and gain a tactical advantage. Battle Across Epic Modes
Drop into the all-new sandbox objective-based mode to choose your own experience within the warzone and collecting gear to keep in your Call of Duty®: Warzone™ 2.0 inventory. Purchase the Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II Vault Edition and get the Red Team 141 Operator Pack, FJX Cinder Weapon Vault*, 10 hours of 2XP, 10 hours of Weapons 2XP, Battle Pass and 50 Tier Skips** – also usable in Warzone™ 2.0. An Xbox Live Gold subscription is not required to play the Warzone™ 2.0 game mode. All other online modes still require Xbox Live Gold. *Weapon Vault design limited to Weapon Vault contents at launch. **Battle Pass redemption applies to one season of Modern Warfare® II Battle Pass only. For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com. © 2022-2023 Activision Publishing, Inc. ACTIVISION, CALL OF DUTY, MODERN WARFARE and CALL OF DUTY WARZONE are trademarks of Activision Publishing, Inc. All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners. This product contains software technology licensed from Id Software (‚Id Technology‘). Id Technology © 1999-2023 Id Software, Inc.

Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II – Cross-Gen Bundle

Activision Publishing Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆ 2483

★★★★★

$69.99 $45.49

Includes: – Cross Gen Bundle of Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II
— Includes Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S versions of the game Welcome to the new era of Call of Duty®. Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II drops players into an unprecedented global conflict that features the return of the iconic Operators of Task Force 141. Infinity Ward brings fans state-of-the-art gameplay, with all-new gun handling, advanced AI system, a new Gunsmith and a suite of other gameplay and graphical innovations that elevate the franchise to new heights. Modern Warfare® II launches with a globe-trotting single-player campaign, immersive Multiplayer combat and an evolved Special Ops game mode featuring tactical co-op gameplay. You also get access to Call of Duty®: Warzone™ 2.0, the all-new Battle Royale experience. For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com. © 2022-2023 Activision Publishing, Inc. ACTIVISION, CALL OF DUTY, MODERN WARFARE and CALL OF DUTY WARZONE are trademarks of Activision Publishing, Inc. All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners. This product contains software technology licensed from Id Software (‚Id Technology‘). Id Technology © 1999-2023 Id Software, Inc.

Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II – Vault Edition

Activision Publishing Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆ 4062

★★★★★

$99.99 $74.99

Available for Xbox consoles exclusively on the Microsoft Store. The Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II – Vault Edition includes the Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S versions of the game. Includes: – Cross Gen Bundle of Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II
— Includes Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S versions of the game
– Red Team 141 Operator Pack:
— 4 Operators: Ghost, Soap, Farah and Price
– FJX Cinder – First-Ever Weapon Vault*
– Battle Pass (1 Season) + 50 Tier Skips**
– 10 hours of 2XP and 10 hours of weapons 2XP Welcome to the new era of Call of Duty®. Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II drops players into an unprecedented global conflict that features the return of the iconic Operators of Task Force 141. Infinity Ward brings fans state-of-the-art gameplay, with all-new gun handling, advanced AI system, a new Gunsmith and a suite of other gameplay and graphical innovations that elevate the franchise to new heights. Modern Warfare® II launches with a globe-trotting single-player campaign, immersive Multiplayer combat and an evolved Special Ops game mode featuring tactical co-op gameplay. You also get access to Call of Duty®: Warzone™ 2.0, the all-new Battle Royale experience. *Weapon Vault design limited to Weapon Vault contents at launch. **Battle Pass redemption applies to one Season of Modern Warfare® II Battle Pass only. For more information, please visit www.callofduty.com. © 2022-2023 Activision Publishing, Inc. ACTIVISION, CALL OF DUTY, MODERN WARFARE and CALL OF DUTY WARZONE are trademarks of Activision Publishing, Inc. All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners. This product contains software technology licensed from Id Software (‚Id Technology‘). Id Technology © 1999-2023 Id Software, Inc.

Who doesn’t love more? Introducing the newest expansion to Xbox Elite Series 2 with Xbox Design Lab!

There is an innate joy that comes with making something truly yours. Since fulfilling the top fan request last October by adding Xbox Elite Series 2 to Xbox Design Lab, we’ve been working hard to take things up a notch. We’re thrilled to announce that a new range of colors are now available, giving you even more ways to make Xbox Elite Series 2 controllers your own.

You will now have the choice of 16 main colors for your top and back case, 12 colors for the ABXY buttons, 17 different accent colors for the paddles and D-pad, and 25 accent colors for the rest of the controller. With vibrant hues like Garnet Red, Glacier Blue, and Deep Pink, to a stealthier option like the new black-out ABXY buttons, there are literally billions of possibilities for personalizing our most advanced controller. Xbox Elite Series 2 with Xbox Design Lab includes customization options that are unique to the controller; options like adjusting the color of the thumbstick rings and base for a subtle pop of color, or metallic triggers and D-Pads that give the controller a premium feel.

If you haven’t experienced Xbox Elite Series 2 controllers, this is the perfect opportunity to do so. Each Xbox Elite Series 2 comes packed with everything necessary to play like a pro. Adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grips, and shorter hair trigger locks can all take your game to the next level. Using the Xbox Accessories App, you can tune your controller through button mapping, adjust the thumbsticks and triggers, and even customize the color the Xbox button lights up as on your controller.

Have a playstyle that varies wildly from game to game? Use the profile button to easily switch between controller profiles, saving the time usually spent adjusting your settings and devoting it to where it needs to be – playing more games. Stay in the game with up to 40 hours of rechargeable battery life and refined components that are built to last.

If you want to customize even further, Xbox Design Lab has you covered. In addition to the controller, you can purchase pieces like the Thumbsticks + D-pad Pack, which features additional interchangeable thumbsticks with unique designs, and an additional D-pad that can be the standard cross shape or faceted. The Paddles Pack features a set of four paddles that attach to the back of your Elite Series 2 controller for additional input options, while the Carrying Case + Charging Pack provides a sleek carrying case, charging dock, and USB-C cable. If you want the complete package, that is where the Everything Pack comes in, which combines all the components into one.

Do you want to customize an Xbox Design Lab controller but don’t know where to start? Take a look at the Inspired By collection. We’ve teamed up with some exciting game studios to give you an excellent starting point for your design – you can even create a controller inspired by one of your favorite characters or franchises! With billions of color combinations, we are excited to see all the wonderful designs the Xbox community creates with this new expansion.

The newest expansion to Xbox Elite Series 2 controllers with Xbox Design Lab is available now starting at $149.99, and we are excited to see what you will create! Click here to make it yours: Xbox Design Lab | Xbox.

In February, we brought a preview of PC Game Pass to 40 new countries for the first time ever. The response was incredible. Thank you to all the players who jumped in to test the experience and help us shape the preview.

We’re happy to announce that beginning later today all players in these countries can join the PC Game Pass community:

• Albania
• Algeria
• Bahrain
• Bolivia
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Bulgaria
• Costa Rica
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Ecuador
• Egypt
• El Salvador
• Estonia
• Georgia
• Guatemala
• Honduras
• Iceland
• Kuwait
• Latvia
• Libya
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Moldova
• Montenegro
• Morocco
• Nicaragua
• North Macedonia
• Oman
• Panama
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Qatar
• Romania
• Serbia
• Slovenia
• Tunisia
• Ukraine
• Uruguay

New members looking to join PC Game Pass can head to xbox.com/pcgamepass to learn more about local pricing as well as how to sign up.

To celebrate the launch, new members will receive a special welcome offer for their first three months for a limited time. Those who were a part of our Insider Program will receive two free months of PC Game Pass membership, with no further action needed, as a thank you for helping us shape the experience and being one of the first PC Game Pass members in your country. This will be available directly in member’s accounts in the coming days.

Once you’ve joined PC Game Pass, the best place to jump in is with the Xbox app on PC. With the Xbox app you can browse games, play PC titles, and connect and chat with friends on devices. PC Game Pass gives players immediate access to a library of hundreds of PC games on Windows including new Xbox Game Studios releases on day one, iconic Bethesda games, an EA Play membership, and member-only benefits in Riot Games like League of Legends and Valorant. You can jump in and play games like Forza Horizon 5, Sea of Thieves, Grounded, Age of Empires IV, FIFA 22, and more today. And new games are being added all the time, including games coming soon on day one like Minecraft Legends on April 18, Redfall on May 2, and Starfield on September 6.

Welcome to the Xbox community!

Here are this week’s games and add-on deals available from the Microsoft Games Store. Discounts are valid now through April 17, 2023 (actual end date varies by sale). The Spring Sale is going on until April 20. Read more about it here and check out the official website here.

Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S Deals

*These offers are only valid for Xbox Live Gold members.

Please note: prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by region. Content Type varies by title and some titles may have multiple types not listed. Check the title’s individual product page for specific details about the game.

*These offers are only valid for Xbox Live Gold members.

Please note: prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by region. Content Type varies by title and some titles may have multiple types not listed. Check the title’s individual product page for specific details about the game.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Bomberman. The character has commonly been portrayed as the playful protagonist in some of the first games dating back to the late 1980s. Don’t let his cute iconic antenna and expressive eyes fool you; despite his seemingly harmless appearance, he’s never backed down from a bomb fight.

Bomberman and the numerous characters that have been introduced throughout the franchise since then have made a nuclear impact on the videogaming world, earning the admiration of millions of players across the globe.

We are proud to announce that this fall we will be adding to Bomberman’s rich legacy with the release of Super Bomberman R 2. The latest entry in the franchise features an all-new story complemented by the most game modes in the Bomberman R series, along with some of the most iconic game modes comes an all-new battle mode: Castle.

Defend The Castle

The flagship mode of Super Bomberman R 2, Castle, introduces unique attack and defend gameplay to the series. This new mode offers a fresh way to play in online battles as players are in control of how they set up defenses on the stage.

Castle mode splits teams into one attack side, consisting of 15 players, and one castle side, who is tasked with defending the treasure chests placed around the stage. Securing treasure chests guarded by a sole defender seems like a tall order, however, the castle-defending player can fight in stages of their own creation and place traps, obstacles and other gimmicks to hinder the attackers.

They also have offensive capabilities, such as the “Weapon,” a powerful armament that blasts away approaching enemies, and can be combined with familiar bombs to settle the score the classic way.

Meet The Adorable Ellons

Super Bomberman R 2 also introduces fans to the Ellons – adorable intergalactic beings that come in different shapes and sizes to help defend the treasure in Castle mode. Some Ellons blast fire at the attacking side while others freeze them in place. One Ellon type with stony hardness becomes a formidable obstacle for the attacking side to bypass. No matter the method to stop the attack, the Ellons are a great new companion you’ll quickly fall in love with.

Take To The Stage (Editor)

Stage Editor, the latest feature deploying with Super Bomberman R 2, will surely please the creative minds out there. Players can create battle stages from a variety of terrains for Castle mode. Any stage created in the Stage Editor can be shared online for other players to try out. The freedom to create new stages, and explore the ones created by other players, will be limitless!

We can’t wait to see what players themselves will add to the legacy of Bomberman through this powerful new tool.

Super Bomberman R 2 is available to pre-order now on the Microsoft Store for Xbox ahead of its digital release on September 13. Be one of the first to build and share stages for the world to enjoy! For more details, please visit the Konami website.

SUPER BOMBERMAN R 2

Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

The latest title of the party battle games series SUPER BOMBERMAN R!
With new adventures and game modes, it has the largest content volume in the series‘ history! The game features not only offline battles that can be played with family and friends, but also online battles that connect players from all over the world, as well as a single player mode. In addition to the well-known „Standard“, „Grand Prix“ and „Battle 64“ a new battle mode called „Castle“ in which players are divided into Attack side and Castle side to battle for the treasure!
A „Stage Editor“ function has also been added, allowing players to create their own stages for „Castle“ and share them online with players around the globe. Let’s have fun together in „SUPER BOMBERMAN R 2“! • Battle Mode
Enjoy 4 battle modes, including the new „Castle“!
“Castle”: Asymmetrical battle between the Castle side, which protects the treasure chest, and the Attack side, which aims to win the treasure chest!
“Standard”: The classic battle mode loved by fans!
“Grand Prix”: Battle of two teams! Work with your allies to defeat the opposing team!
“Battle 64”: Battle for survival with up to 64 players! Aim for Bomber One! • Grade Match
Battles between users with similar abilities!
Fight online with players from all over the world! • Room Match
Set freely battle modes and rules!
Get your friends together online and have a good time! • Offline Battle
With one console you can enjoy Bomberman!
Connect additional controllers and play with family and friends! *Controllers for the number of persons are required. • Stage Editor
Customized stages with blocks and gimmicks can be shared online!
Create, play, share, and explore various stages with the Stage Editor! • Story Mode
Enjoy the Story Mode that has been enhanced!
Visit new planets with Bombermans new friends “Ellons” and face the threat of the universe!

One of the most anticipated Microsoft Store gaming and entertainment sales of 2023 has arrived! Microsoft Store Spring Sale kicks off today through April 20 with can’t-miss savings on select Xbox and PC games, movies and TV shows, apps, and more*.  

Grab Deals on Games Galore

Save up to 60% on select Xbox digital games. 

Whether it’s adventure, fantasy, or sports – gamers looking to expand their collection have a chance to stock up. Save on hundreds of select Xbox digital games, including One Piece Odyssey Deluxe Edition, Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition, and NBA 2K23 for Xbox Series X|S.   

Save up to 60% on select PC games. 

Elevate your play with hundreds of deals on select PC games. Bioengineer dinosaurs that think, feel, and react intelligently to the world around them in Jurassic World Evolution 2, live a magical life alongside iconic characters by embarking on an enchanting quest in Disney Dreamlight Valley, or explore the ultimate virtual universe and be anything you can imagine in Roblox. Check out the full list of PC game here.  

Shop for Xbox Series X bundles and save on select Xbox controllers.

Whether you are new to gaming or it’s time for an upgrade, Spring Sale is a great time to pick up an Xbox Series X bundle and your favorite games. Plus, get savings on select Xbox controllers! 

• Xbox Series X – Forza Horizon 5 Premium Editon bundle 
• Xbox Series X – Diablo 4 bundle (preorder today) 
• Save $10 on select Xbox controllers. Offers end April 22.  

Enjoy hundreds of high-quality games with friends on your Xbox console, PC, or Cloud. With games added all the time, discover your next favorite game with Xbox Game Pass. Join now to choose the plan that’s right for you.  

Stay Entertained All Spring…and Beyond!

Save up to 50% on select movies and TV shows.

Spring Sale is the hub for all your entertainment needs. Check out great offers on popular movies and TV shows. Whether it’s family movie night or bingeing your favorite TV show, there’s something for everyone. Featured titles include: 

• Harry Potter: The Complete 8 – Film Collection 
• Deadpool 2 – Movie Collection 
• Joker/The Batman 2 – Film Collection 
• Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City 
• Jordan Peele 3 – Movie Collection 

Save up to 50% on select creativity, productivity, and entertainment apps.

Popular apps like Dolby Access, Nitrado, Karaoke One, 8 Zip Pro Advanced Archiver, and many more are now available to download on Xbox consoles and Microsoft Store on Windows. And, for all the photo enthusiasts out there, Adobe Photoshop Elements 2023 is now available for download on your Windows 11 device! 

Save big on select Surface devices and Microsoft PC accessories.   

Whether you’re working from home, on-the-go, or kicking back on the couch, Surface devices are designed for all the ways you work, learn, and play. Save on these select Surface devices:

• Save up to $300 on select Surface Laptop 5. Offer ends April 16. 
• Save up to $300 on select Surface Pro 9. Offer runs April 9 through April 23.  
• Save up to $500 on select Surface Pro 8. Offer ends April 30. 
• Save up to $500 on select Surface Laptop 4. Offer ends April 30.  

Get the most out of your Windows PC with select Microsoft accessories now up to 33% off! Stay connected and productive while on-the-go with the Microsoft USB-C Travel Hub, Microsoft Modern USB-C Headset, or Microsoft Bluetooth Mouse. Visit here for a full list of Microsoft accessories on sale now.   

Jump on these amazing offers on Xbox bundles, Xbox and PC games, Xbox accessories, entertainment and apps before Microsoft Store Spring Sale ends on April 20. 

Made easy with Microsoft Store: Free personal shopping and set-up appointments 

From choosing the right Xbox console, accessories and games to configuring your console and setting up Game Pass, Microsoft Store product experts are readily available to support all your gaming needs. To schedule a free, online appointment, visit microsoft.com.  

*Select deals are available across markets. Timing and prices may vary by region. Visit your Microsoft Store location or online for more details on availability and pricing. Offers valid for a limited time, while supplies last. Not valid on prior orders or purchases; cannot be transferred or otherwise redeemed for cash or coupon code(s). May not be combinable with other offers. Refunds will take into account the discount. Price discount does not include taxes, shipping or other fees. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Microsoft reserves the right to modify or discontinue offers at any time. 

Welcome to Next Week on Xbox! In this weekly feature we cover all the games coming soon to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows, and Game Pass! Get more details on these upcoming games below and click their profiles for further info (release dates subject to change). Let’s jump in!

Guardian of Lore – April 11
Xbox Play Anywhere

Play as Prince Sayri and save the memory of ancient civilizations from wicked magic that aims to destroy the stories that contain it. Become part of beautifully crafted 2.5D worlds from Native-American folktales, and battle against an evil invader army threatening their disappearance. How much of each story will you be able to preserve for future generations to come? Become a Guardian of Lore and find out!

Sherlock Holmes The Awakened – April 11
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Experience a nerve-racking Lovecraftian adventure, rebuilt from the ground up with modern graphics and gameplay. Become Sherlock Holmes and find yourself at the heart of the terrifying Cthulhu Mythos as you investigate a series of mysterious disappearances in Europe and the US.

Hyper-5 – April 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Deep space scout ship Hyper-5 has received a distress signal and heads into battle against an unknown threat. On your own and facing nearly impossible odds, you’ll need to survive more than 40 enemy types and massive boss encounters across the varied land, air, and underwater stages of planet 4GDT.

King of the Arcade – April 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Step into the neon-lit world of King of the Arcade, where the ‘80s never died. Take on the role of Mac McCormick, a former arcade champion who has fallen on hard times, as he fights to save Castle’s Arcade from a hostile takeover by the ruthless landlord Jimmy Joysticks and the seven members of his arcade gang. With over 40 games and multiple genres, you’ll have hours of nostalgic fun.

Murderous Muses – April 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

As a security guard, explore a gallery in the echoing hours to uncover clues about a recent crime. Solve puzzles and use the Eyes of Mordechai to bring the portraits to life, restoring the past to find the killer… From the creators of The Infectious Madness of Doctor Dekker, The Shapeshifting Detective, and Dark Nights with Poe and Munro, Murderous Muses is a supernatural whodunit where choosing how to investigate is an art form.

Ghostwire: Tokyo – April 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Game Pass

Tokyo is overrun by deadly supernatural forces as a dangerous occultist causes the city’s population to vanish in an instant. Join forces with a powerful spectral entity on their quest for vengeance and master a powerful arsenal of abilities to unravel the dark truth behind the disappearance as you face the unknown in Ghostwire: Tokyo on April 12, including the new Spider’s Thread update. Playable on Console, Clould, and PC.

Cannon Dancer – Osman – April 13
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Set in the near future of the 21st century, the world is controlled by a single corrupt government and under the threat of an evil sorceress, Abdullah the Slaver. Luckily, a lone assassin and top-class agent named Kirin offers his skills as weapons for hire. Kirin must infiltrate the city to defeat several enemies, panic, and terror. But once inside the cult’s main temple, he gets attacked from the police force and left to die…        

Dogfight – A Sausage Bomber Story – April 13
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Team up with the entire family for explosive action, signature humor, and thrilling adventure. Join the Sausage Bomber Corps for daring missions to defend the nations of Relishtonia and more against the world-conquering ambitions from the mysterious Vega Nation.

Sokolor – April 13

A puzzle game with innovative mechanics. Push the colored cubes into their correct positions; but first you need to paint yourself the same color to be able to push them.

Basketball Pinball – April 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Jump on the board and prepare to score points to win this match, score slam dunks and three-point shots. Discover all the secrets, complete all the missions, and prove that you’re the number one in the world or the best among your friends, posting your high score on the online leaderboard.

DE-Exit – Eternal Matters – April 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Embark on a surrealistic afterlife journey to discover the secrets of the broken and mysterious plane of memory in this atmospheric, light adventure with a hint of stealth. Explore a wonderful voxel world with an intense cinematic approach. Dive into this profound experience, meet the Plane’s inhabitants, and save the day.

Farm Slider – April 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

With colorful and minimalistic sliding puzzles, Farm Slider is easy to play, challenging to finish and impossible to put down! Challenge your brain and enjoy several hours of puzzling fun, suited for all ages. Slide your way through and rearrange the pictures until they match the original to complete the levels.

Split – Manipulate Time – April 14

A first-person puzzle game with the unique mechanics of creating copies of yourself and manipulating time. The gameplay combines many different types of puzzles and takes them to a whole new perspective. The control panel is riddled with numerous traps that will require both good reflexes and composure — you can try to destroy enemies or escape from them by using time manipulation and your own clones to distract them.

Ultra Pixel Survive – April 14

Command heroes with unique abilities, harvest natural resources to collect materials, then build and develop your military defenses. Each night the enemy hordes will attack the village and challenge your strategic and tactical prowess to survive. Explore dark underground dungeons and wage battle against gigantic bosses.

Marfusha is a short and sweet indie game made by Japanese developer hinyari9.

You control the titular main character Marfusha, who has been conscripted into the army to defend her country’s borders in a fictional, war-ravaged dystopian world. This is a high-speed tower defense shooter, where you have to shoot down all the enemy machines before they break through the gates.

After every successful day of defense, you get paid a salary, which can then be used to purchase cards. By using these cards, you can recruit coworkers to fight by your side, buy new weapons, upgrade your weapon, or keep a dog in your room.

You get to choose one card from a random pool of three every day… if you can afford them. War is expensive, after all. Your salary goes through a series of tax deductions before reaching your hands, and the taxes only get heavier as the days go on. You’ll have to spend wisely and adapt to the ever-changing circumstances of war if you want to survive until the very end.

This is a pretty short game; one run only takes an hour or so. However, it features multiple endings that change based on who you recruit and how well you defend your objective.

You could also play Challenge Mode, which is an endless survival mode where you can unlock different characters to play as and defend the gate for as long as you can while competing against other players from around the world to get your name on the high score ranking.

Beating the story also unlocks Gallery Mode, where you can look at the stunning artwork of the game (and some bonus illustrations too!) drawn by developer and illustrator hinyari9.

The world and story of Marfusha only fully reveal themselves with multiple playthroughs, and you won’t be able to put it down until you learn everything there is to know.

By the way, the Xbox release for this game includes a brand new animated opening cinematic featuring the specially written theme song “I’ll be there” by singer-songwriter Kokia, who has written music for various video games such as Tales of Innocence.

Can you survive and defend your country until the end?

Marfusha is now available on Xbox!

Marfusha

PLAYISM

☆☆☆☆☆ 1

★★★★★

Play as Marfusha, a gate guard in a dystopian world depicted in 2.5D pixel art, and protect the city gates from being destroyed by invading enemies. You are rewarded for surviving every day, but you will have to pay tax after tax until you have barely enough money to scrape by. You will have to use that meager income to buy upgrades, equipment, and hire coworkers. The enemies only grow stronger by each passing day, and you never know when they might eventually overpower you. Every morning, you can buy one card out of three choices. There are over 70 cards, including weapons, coworkers, upgrades, and random chance events. Choose what to spend what little money you have carefully, and strengthen Marfusha and her coworkers, while making sure you have the equipment necessary to deal with enemy attacks. As time passes, the taxes only grow heavier, but more equipment options become available, and you will meet new allies. Fight together with your coworkers and build up your trust, and you’ll unlock stories with each of them. Endure and survive the endless invasion, and find out what lies at the end of these girls‘ gruelling battle. Test your limits with the difficult Challenge Mode!
– Play as characters you meet in Main Mode
– Use exciting new cards exclusive to Challenge Mode!
– Watch special events by finding the right character combinations
– Compete against other players around the world to see who can survive the longest Note: The console version comes with the artbook included.

Tee it up on the golf course, get rich or die trying, adventure out into the world as the new Maega class, or explore Tamriel once more in this packed Free Play Days weekend. PGA Tour 2K23, Black Desert, and Bravery and Greed are available for Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members to play from Thursday, April 6 at 12:01 a.m. PDT until Sunday, April 9 at 11:59 p.m. PDT, and The Elder Scrolls Online will be available until April 17.

How to Start Playing

Find and install the games on each of the individual game details page on Xbox.com. Clicking through will send you to the Microsoft Store, where you must be signed in to see the option to install with your Xbox Live Gold or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership. To download on console, click on the Subscriptions tab in the Xbox Store and enter the Gold member area to locate the Free Play Days collection on your Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S.

Keep the Fun Going

Purchase the game and other editions at a limited time discount and continue playing while keeping your Gamerscore and earned achievements during the event! Please note that discounts and percentages may vary by title and region.

Game Details

• PGA Tour 2K23 (Xbox One & Series X|S)
• Black Desert
• Bravery and Greed
• The Elder Scrolls Online

PGA Tour 2K23 (Xbox One & Series X|S)

Challenge the greatest players on the PGA Tour and find your swagger in PGA Tour 2K23. Bolstered by a diverse cast of playable pros, featuring Tiger Woods, Jon Rahm, Collin Morikawa, Brooke Henderson, Lydia Ko, and many more, you can swing on world-renowned, officially licensed courses. Enjoy a bevy of online competitive modes, ranging from competitive Online Societies to the always-fun Topgolf mode and adrenaline-inducing Divot Derby. More golf and more games await in the latest iteration of the PGA Tour 2K franchise.

Black Desert

Jump into Black Desert during the new season and experience Maegu – the newest class in an ever-growing cast. Enter a world created with state-of-the-art graphics, spectacular scenery, realistic environments, and sophisticated details. Experience an innovative combat system unlike any other MMORPG. Join formidable guilds as they fight head-to-head on the battlefield. Be victorious, become lords, seize control of resources, and more! Don’t like fighting? Countless other activities await! Farming, cooking, fishing, sailing, hunting, gathering… dive into diverse life skills! Experience an insane level of customization with a character creator like no other. Not feeling a specific outfit’s color? Dye it to suit your style and become your true self!

Bravery and Greed

Get rich or die trying with up to 4 friends via local or online co-op in Bravery and Greed. Get ready to battle against new fearsome bosses waiting for you in the jungle and ice caves. Grab that sweet loot to unlock new content and game changing augmentations. Discover thrilling dungeons in adventure mode or engage in robust combat with PvP and survival mode. Whether you play as the valiant Warrior, mighty Amazon, agile Rogue or spellcasting Wizard, greed is eternal.

The Elder Scrolls Online

Download and play The Elder Scrolls Online Standard Edition for free from April 6 to April 17 on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S. With access to the base game, you can explore 24 story zones, including iconic Morrowind, dive into the game’s Battlegrounds, Imperial City, and Cyrodiil PvP areas, and even get an opportunity to begin your Legacy of the Bretons year-long adventure via the High Isle Prologue. Explore the new Necrom Prologue quest starting April 12 in the base game.

Don’t miss out on this exciting Free Play Days for Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members! Learn more about Free Play Days here and stay tuned to Xbox Wire to find out about future Free Play Days and all the latest Xbox gaming news.

Spring is a time of awakenings and new opportunities. In celebration of the season, Wild Hearts is adding new content all month, from new Kemono and Karakuri, to new quest types. If you’ve yearned to join the hunt, Xbox players can now try Wild Hearts for 10 full hours. Explore the beautiful but dangerous land of Azuma right up to the gates of Minato for free now through April 13, 2023.

Plus, you can get up to 20%* off either the Standard or Karakuri Edition (which includes the base game and six exclusive items: the Karakuri Samurai and Karakuri Ninja armor sets, a decorative Tsukumo Lantern, and three Emotes) through April 20, 2023.

New Kemono

The falling cherry blossom petals that once delighted the people of Azuma now fill them with dread. For they are delicate harbingers of a deadly foe, the beautiful but destructive Murakumo.  Don’t be beguiled by its loveliness, this massive fox-like Kemono dances through the air and unleashes a whirlwind attack that can bring a quick end to almost any battle.

How will you overcome the ferocious power of this beast and protect the people of Azuma? Mastery of a new Karakuri may be your only hope…

New Karakuri

The spinning top is a cunning and powerful addition to your Karakuri toolset. Though it may appear quite simple, it has the power to banish Murakumo’s savage winds. But it’s also important to know that the spinning top gains power each time it ricochets off any surface. The more objects (or Kemono) it hits, the stronger it becomes, so choose your hunting grounds wisely and you will be able to stagger almost any foe.

Other Updates

Wild Hearts is also introducing a new Limit Break system for weapons and armor that will allow you to enhance your equipment with core orbs you obtain after defeating Volatile Kemono. The addition of Marakumo also means new materials for your weapons and armor, both every bit as beautiful as the beast that inspired them.

And, of course, there will be bug fixes and overall game improvements coming as well. You can visit the Wild Hearts website for a look at the latest Patch Notes for more details.

More Coming April 20

The new content doesn’t end after this first update. Be sure to check back for more information on the new Deeply Volatile Kemono, the Deathhaze Gloombeak, as well as challenging Serial Hunts, and new Emotes and Chat Stamps.

Serial Hunts will push your skills to the limit as you pursue a succession of Kemono in time-limited hunts – and without the ability to draw upon the healing water from wells. These new quests will be risky indeed, but with great risk comes great reward. But only if you make it to the end of your quest.

Now is the time to hone your skills and prepare for everything April has in store for you in the world of Wild Hearts.

*Conditions and restrictions apply. See here for details.

WILD HEARTS™ Karakuri Edition

Electronic Arts

☆☆☆☆☆ 596

★★★★★

$89.99 $80.99

WILD HEARTS™ is a twist on the hunting genre where technology gives you a fighting chance against giant nature-infused beasts.
For a while, none could stand against the Kemono’s overwhelming might. But hope arrives in the form of a formidable hunter, armed with deadly weapons and ancient technology called Karakuri that could turn the tide of battle. HUNT GIANT NATURE-INFUSED BEASTS
Survive their attacks, learn from their behaviors, and use your Karakuri and your weapons in combination to cut these creatures down to size. CRAFT YOUR HUNTING GROUNDS
You are the only one in Azuma able to wield the Karakuri technology. This ancient tech enables you to adapt your environment into creative hunting grounds ideal for taking down the giant Kemono. HUNT IN A PACK, OR BE A LONE WOLF
In WILD HEARTS you can face the Kemono alone or unite with up to two friends (or fellow players) to stalk and hunt your prey. GEAR UP TO HUNT, HUNT TO GEAR UP
The more you hunt, the more you progress. Create your character, then gather materials from each hunt and build an array of armor and weapons to bring down even bigger beasts. EXPLORE A FANTASY FEUDAL JAPAN
Experience four season-based hunting grounds – each region with its own beautiful landscapes and dangers. Leave a lasting impression on your fellow hunters with the WILD HEARTS™ Karakuri Edition which includes the base game and six items: Karakuri Samurai and Karakuri Ninja cosmetic armor sets, a decorative Tsukumo Lantern, and three Emotes. WILD HEARTS™ Karakuri Edition includes:
– 2 x full cosmetic armor sets (Karakuri Samurai + Karakuri Ninja)
– Decorative Tsukumo Lantern
– 3 x Emotes (Fighting Spirit, Grovel, Conch) Developed for this generation of platforms by Omega Force, the Japanese studio behind the DYNASTY WARRIORS franchise, WILD HEARTS™ takes you on an epic adventure set in a fantasy world inspired by feudal Japan. *Conditions & restrictions apply. See ea.com/wild-hearts/wild-hearts/disclaimers for details.
©KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD. All rights reserved.

WILD HEARTS™ Standard Edition

Electronic Arts

☆☆☆☆☆ 244

★★★★★

$69.99 $62.99

Free Trial

WILD HEARTS™ is a unique twist on the hunting genre where technology gives you a fighting chance against fearsome beasts infused with the ferocious power of nature itself. Take on these creatures alone or hunt with friends in seamless co-op.
No one remembers why the Kemono began their rampage through a once prosperous Azuma. Fueled by desperation, they wield the power of primal nature at its most destructive. For a while, it seemed that none could stand against their overwhelming might. But hope arrives in the form of a formidable hunter, armed with deadly weapons and ancient technology called Karakuri that could turn the tide of battle. HUNT GIANT NATURE-INFUSED BEASTS
Survive their attacks, learn from their behaviors, and use your Karakuri and your weapons in combination to cut these creatures down to size. CRAFT YOUR HUNTING GROUNDS
You are the only one in Azuma able to wield the Karakuri technology. This ancient tech enables you to adapt your environment into creative hunting grounds ideal for taking down the giant Kemono. HUNT IN A PACK, OR BE A LONE WOLF
In WILD HEARTS™ you can face the Kemono alone or unite with up to two friends (or fellow players) to stalk and hunt your prey. GEAR UP TO HUNT, HUNT TO GEAR UP
The more you hunt, the more you progress. Create your character, then gather materials from each hunt and build an array of armor and weapons to bring down even bigger beasts. EXPLORE A FANTASY FEUDAL JAPAN
Experience four season-based hunting grounds – each region with its own beautiful landscapes and dangers. Developed for this generation of platforms by Omega Force, the Japanese studio behind the DYNASTY WARRIORS franchise, WILD HEARTS™ takes you on an epic adventure set in a fantasy world inspired by feudal Japan. Conditions & restrictions apply. See ea.com/wild-hearts/wild-hearts/disclaimers for details.
©KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD. All rights reserved.

The prequel to the critically acclaimed Road 96 is finally here! In Road 96: Mile 0, you play as Zoe and Kaito, who have set out to find out the truth their country is trying to hide, and do it through a unique gameplay with the new “psychedelic rides” mechanic. Do you want to know what is inside the minds of these teenagers? Allow me to show you how.

How do the game mechanics work and what are the psychedelic rides?

At DigixArt, we love frenetic rides and fast paced gameplay. With Road 96: Mile 0, we wanted to keep the core feeling of Road 96 – the key to its success – but add a whole new feature, something fresh that could please players who like more skill-based gameplay.

In one of our previous games, Lost in Harmony, we had a skill-based cooking mechanic, and we took a similar approach when we developed Mile 0’s “psychedelic rides”. The rides are designed to be highly replayable – there is a score system that shows your precision like rhythm games, but also some narrative choices and hidden shortcuts. But don’t worry, for the more chilled players, you can skip those rides so that you’re not blocked from story progression.

What is the message behind the psychedelic rides?

These “psychedelic rides” represent impactful moments in Kaito and Zoe’s minds: their fears, their joy, their traumas, their questions. Some of them are really dark and represent well what could not be shown in reality. They are all unique, crafted by hand, with wonderful composers and even famous licensed songs like The Offspring’s ‘No Brakes’ – that song defines  a facet of Zoe’s personality at this moment of her life. Before everything changes for her…

How do the rides change the characters?

Each psychedelic ride contains narrative choices that have a big impact on the “belief gauges” of the two characters. These moments represent choices that you have to make in your life – like a crossroad, would you go here or there?  Do you prefer the comfort of your certitudes or the scarier direction of new beliefs?  The rides offer this metaphor, and continue the strong narratives of the first Road 96 game in an all-new way.

What was the most challenging aspect for the studio when developing these rides?

Developing the rides’ gameplay was not easy – it was meant to be frenetic but still emotional. We wanted them to be challenging, but not too hard for casual players.
We did a lot of tweaking, again and again, and day after day it became more and more fun to play. We are really happy with the result. We know it will be surprising to players, but we hope they like this addition to the brand.

Road 96: Mile 0 is out now for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows PC.

Road 96: Mile 0

Ravenscourt Games

☆☆☆☆☆ 17

★★★★★

Road 96: Mile 0 is a Narrative-Adventure game with a musical component created by DigiXArt, the French studio behind the successful Road 96, 11-11 Memories Retold and 5 Pegases Awards winner. Published by Ravenscourt, players will alternate between the roles of Zoe and Kaito, two teenagers with different backgrounds and beliefs. They live and explore White Sands, a luxurious condominium where Petria´s elite reside and where Kaito´s parents work.
Zoe is one of the characters of Road 96. She comes from the rich side of the city and her father works for the government. Kaito, a character from Lost in Harmony, lives in the less privileged area. They’re good friends, but that could all change quite soon.
Their journey in Road 96: Mile 0 will challenge their friendship and everything they believe in. They say money doesn’t buy happiness, nor friendship. These teens are dreamers and they are going to learn where they belong. Will they remain friends? ROAD 96 WORLD
Understand the previous event of Road 96 and what made Zoe flee from her home. Play as Zoe and Kaito to shape the evolution of their fate. Besides this, you will run into many of the colorful characters from Road 96. Get to experience another side of the troubled country of Petria. IT’S ALL ABOUT FRIENDSHIP
This is a story about conflict and difference of opinion between two friends. Zoe and Kaito come from two different worlds, but they are unified by a powerful friendship. They will face many challenges, can they overcome them? MUSICAL RIDES The musical segments of the game are a real emotional experience that put you into inner worlds of Zoe and Kaito. You will have to make choices and ride and dodge to find your way through these beautiful psychedelic trips.

I first began making Shukuchi Ninja as a bit of a fun hobby, just for something to do and pass the time. I was working as a self-employed sports trader, but then COVID happened and there were no sports to trade, so to keep myself occupied I decided to see if I could make a little game. It was always something I wanted to do, but never had the time nor money to do it — add this to the fact I can’t draw, I can’t compose music, and I can’t code to save my life, I knew it would be a challenge.

One day, I reminded myself about Construct 2, a game making software that I had previously looked at many years ago, and it sounded like the perfect starting place to look as I recall it being more of a visual/drag and drop style engine. Obviously C2 was made obsolete years prior, but C3 had superseded it. I found a couple of templates and started to learn how the engine worked. I then found the perfect template, a little physics-based throwing object that immediately called out “crazy ninja game”!

After about three months tinkering with it, adding the abilities that are in the game now, along with making the graphics look better with premade game assets etc., I had about 15 levels done, but no real aim for the game, sports were back on, so I stopped development.

Then again, another lockdown, sports were not like they used to be, so I opened up C3 again. Decided to get some actual character design done (remember, I said I couldn’t draw, or use any graphics software at the time), so I paid a designer to make some simple mockups. After this, it gave me the surge to go for it, and finish the game. I got the characters fully complete and found someone to animate them. I then invested in some nice backgrounds, tile maps and some custom music. I’d then made about 40 levels, but stopped development again due to family circumstances.

Development picked back up after a few months, adding more details to bring a bit more life to the game, until I finally had it ready. I mostly enjoyed the 18 months or so it took me to make the first deployable version: from some very mundane parts of making a game (like adding details manually, for example) to the discovery that there were far simpler ways to do things and having to redo them—it all contributed to the final product and part of an amazing learning process!

My main inspiration for Shukuchi Ninja was the ancient Japanese culture as a whole. I tried to work out a way I could incorporate the typical pop-culture aspects of the Ninja, (cool, quick and mysterious) with the honorable Samurai, and what a Samurai actually fought for. For instance, the little circle that appears around the ninja when you’re throwing him around is the symbol for the Seven Virtues of Bushido, the Samurai warrior code. By no means am I a game developer of any real talent, but I’m full of drive, determination and have the imagination of a child and I’m very pleased with what I’ve accomplished! If you’re looking at getting started with games development but don’t know where to start, pick up some game-making software and start learning. You’ll find you’ll pick up lots of other skills along the way including creating your own graphics (yes, I can make some myself now, but I still can’t draw!). Shikuchi Ninja is available today on Xbox!

Shukuchi Ninja

2Awesome Partners

☆☆☆☆☆ 4

★★★★★

$4.99 $3.99

Journey through ancient Japan as the Shukuchi Ninja, exiled from his former clan for wanting a more honorable way of life. Travel through vast areas defeating the Shukuchi Ninja’s newfound foe to bring peace and prosperity in a time of turmoil. A full, action-packed adventure awaits with over 70 levels, 7 troublesome bosses, an inspiring storyline, and unique controls – there’s no other game like it! Shukuchi literally translated means shrink earth method, to travel at great speed, an ability that our hero has perfected over years of training. Take control of the Shukuchi Ninja and fly through the air at astonishing speed, attack enemies with your ninjatō, throw shuriken (ninja stars) at hard to reach enemies, and instantly teleport to quickly counter enemy attacks. With the power of healing, you must also aid the Shukuchi Ninja to ensure he doesn’t die!

The awkward silent moments that linger between conversations when meeting new people at restaurants or cafes, waiting for the food to arrive. Your mind looks for distractions. Your thoughts go wild.

Persona Theory Games wants you to not only experience that discomfort but also to understand its purpose through their latest game Kabaret, a dark fantasy folklore visual novel based on Southeast Asian culture and myths.

It may seem easy to just click your way through the entirety of Kabaret, but players must find patience in themselves as they go through the game. The game’s intentional slow pacing forces the player to ponder and soak in the experience, while allowing the mechanics of the game to inaugurate the story that’s being told.

Revelation Behind the Boredom of Making Tea

With Kabaret, the game’s main focus is the narrative. The gameplay mechanics and minigames found within the game exist to bring out the narrative behind the world through its characters, which is the essence of Kabaret. The tea ceremony is a representation of Southeast Asian culture and one of the many mechanics built in as design to give the player a subliminal lesson in patience.

Persona Theory Games believes that the slow pacing of Kabaret mimics the feeling of boredom with a specific purpose in mind.

In recent studies, social neuroscientists have found that boredom can foster creative ideas, refill dwindling reservoirs, replenish the energy for work and provide an incubation period for embryonic work ideas to hatch.

It is this exact feeling and purpose that Persona Theory Games want people to experience. Being bored is an essential part of being human and one of boredom’s purposes is to drive us to take action. This feeling is an essential part of slow cinema – a genre of film characterized by long takes and a minimalist aesthetic – and Kabaret draws inspiration from slow cinema to immerse you in its dark universe.

Slow cinema puts the viewer in a sensory-deprived situation that forces them to think. The lack of stimuli will either create internal chaos or allow the viewer to realize a sense of peace in the mundane. Without editing or splicing, it makes the viewer feel real time, an essential aspect of slow cinema that creative director of Persona Theory Games, Buddy Anwardi, admires.

Mindfulness in Kabaret

Persona Theory Games believes that this aspect of the game is able to create a sense of mindfulness and awareness that we all take for granted with the overload of information from social media forums like TikTok, Youtube and others. 

As gamers of today seek the adrenaline hit from fast-paced gameplay, the goal of Kabaret is to encourage mindfulness while playing. Understand the story, think about the meaning and value of life, which explains the many life decisions the player must make in the game.

What It Means to Serve Tea

In the world of Kabaret, the dwellers are made up of ghosts and monsters who are either coping with regret or hoping to find their true selves. Are they still human? Is it so wrong to be a monster? What does it mean to continue suffering in the afterlife after all the hardship found in real life?

We understand that life can be full of suffering, but it is rewarding in its own way. Taking the time to understand the horrors and suffering that these characters have gone through is a big part of the narrative experience. Serving these Southeast Asian mythical creatures tea, waiting for it to brew while embracing the uncomfortable and still silence that we so often fear. Understand their pain and maybe you can find out who you really are.

The losses you feel when playing Guli with ghosts from old wars that taunt you. Understand the intricate game of Congkak with a trickster monster laughing at your horrible math skills. The lessons of strategizing, being prudent and accepting defeat. Realize that every calculative action you make has far reaching consequences.

People are searching for ways to escape the fast pace of the modern world. Why not find a sense of renewal and develop a sense of belonging by serving the dwellers at Kabaret. Let the music and experience of Kabaret give you a new perspective on what it means to save your humanity or be a monster.

Kabaret is available on Xbox Today! You may follow Persona Theory Games on Twitter to stay notified about the game’s release and updates.

Kabaret

Persona Theory Games

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Kabaret is a dark fantasy folklore adventure game. The story unfolds through the eyes of Jebat, a cursed boy who is uprooted from his small town to a mystical, violent, and unforgiving monster realm. Astray and lonely in a place of unfathomable cruelty, Jebat confronts monsters both supernatural and human in the Kabaret.

We did a thing (again).

Today, we hosted our April edition of the [email protected] Showcase on Twitch – revealing new games coming to Xbox, sharing updates from independent developers and a special interview with the Vampire Survivors team.  

If you missed it, you can catch the full showcase on demand here: Xbox – Twitch

Check out each of the games listed below for more details on some of the games highlighted during April’s edition of the [email protected] Showcase on Twitch and stay tuned to Xbox Wire for more great [email protected] content. 

Cassette Beasts (Bytten Studio / Raw Fury) 

Embark on a thrilling monster-collecting open-world adventure as you find your way home from the island of New Wirral. In this trailer Kayleigh, one of the companions you’ll meet and team up with, explains how to transform into monster form and how to capture and record new monster forms! With Cassette Beasts’ Fusion system you can combine any two monsters into powerful new ones! 

Cassette Beasts launches April 26 with PC Game pass on Day One and Microsoft Store, and later this spring to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and Xbox Game Pass on Day One. 

Closer the Distance (Osmotic Studios, Skybound Games) 

A deeply moving slice-of-life sim that tells a story about the connections between family and friends in the face of tragedy. Following a fatal car accident, players take on the role of Angela, a young girl from the town of Yesterby, who finds herself watching over her loved ones as they navigate the grieving process. Using her ethereal ability to influence the townspeople she once knew, Angela’s choices will ultimately determine the fate of Yesterby. 

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly (Toge Productions / Chorus Worldwide Games) 

Open the coffee shop doors once again in present-day, fantastical Seattle where memorable humans, quirky orcs, business-oriented succubi, and other mythological denizens coexist. In Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly, Be the best barista you can be as you serve warm and comforting drinks, and lend a much-needed ear, to a whole array of customers. Encounter familiar faces and a few new ones too as you improve their moods with your wonderful concoctions and delightful latte art… all to the sound of chilled lo-fi beats. 

The Explorator (Remnant Games Studio) 

The Explorator is a game inspired by oldschool FPS with a cell shading visual style, as an explorer you take your courage in both hands to set foot on the most dangerous island of the known world, Ospolis. 

Legends say that the legendary city of Atlantis lies beneath this island, which has been suddenly overrun by goblins and monsters that have emerged from the bowels of the underground tunnels drilled by unwary explorers confident of finding this famous city. 

Homestead Arcana (Serenity Forge, Skybound Games) 

In Homestead Arcana you become a farming Witch and pioneer the range that has been mysteriously corrupted with deathly Miasma. In order to discover the secret behind its appearance, you will grow plants to power up your spells, craft new gear, and use nature’s magic to ultimately heal the land. Throughout all this you will be aided on your journey by your trusted familiar Huckleberry, voiced by Yuri Lowenthal, who will be presenting this gameplay walkthrough of Homestead Arcana.  

Coming to Game Pass on day one, fans can pre-order or pre-install Homestead Arcana today! 

Kabaret (Persona Theory Games) 

Kabaret is a visual novel about a boy cursed into a monster. Talk to monsters, perform tea ceremonies, play minigames and learn the dwellers’ stories. It’s a unique journey to unravel the narrative through patience and immersion in the world of fantastic characters and their experiences. Out now on Xbox. 

The Karters 2: Turbo Charged (Pixel Edge Games) 

Get ready to rev up your engines for The Karters 2: Turbo Charged – the ultimate kart racing game coming to Xbox this year! Featuring an exciting array of power-ups, challenging tracks, and a big variety of game modes for both local and online play, this game will take your racing skills to the next level. Race to the finish line and compete with friends and players from all corners of the globe. Sharpen your racing instincts and battle it out for the top spot in this adrenaline-fueled action-packed kart racer. 

The Last Case of Benedict Fox (Plot Twist / Rogue Games) 

Today’s gameplay of the highly anticipated The Last Case of Benedict Fox features developer commentary and demonstrates how Benedict and his Demon Companion will fight their way through different factions and encounter the deepest part of the otherworldly Limbo! In this Burton-esque metroidvania, combat is just one of the ways you will progress deeper into the game. See for yourself how one of the most anticipated games on Xbox looks! 

Lil’ Guardsman (Hilltop Studios) 

In this deduction adventure, you play as Lil – an unlikely 12-year-old hero – covering your dad’s shift at the guard shed and are tasked with deciding the fate of over 100 unique characters. Sending visitors to jail, inadvertently zapping them to smithereens, or letting them go on their merry way are all part of the job. But be careful: who you let through the castle gates will determine the kingdom’s fate.  

Omega Strikers (Odyssey Interactive) 

Join the footbrawl when Omega Strikers officially launches on Xbox on April 27th, 2023! Smash opponents off the arena and score goals in this lightning-fast 3v3 free-to-play game. Squad up with friends and choose from a growing cast of colorful Strikers to sling slimes, toss tofu, and rocket boost to victory. 

Vampire Survivors: Tides of Foscari (Poncle) 

Vampire Survivors: Tides of Foscari is the second DLC for Vampire Survivors, and takes players to the rolling hills and wooded lands of Western Europe. During today’s showcase, viewers got a sneak peek at it before it’s launch on April 13. Heavily influenced by fairy tales and folklore, which whisper warnings to not step too close to foreboding woods which is home to all manner of magical beasts, spellcasters, demi-humans, spirits, demons, angels, and more. Vampire Survivors: Tides of Foscari brings with it eight new characters, 13 new weapons, one stage, seven music tracks and 20 new achievements.  

Greetings, Adventurers!

The Fox-summoning “Do” wielder of the Jwado School and newest addition to the roster, Maegu, is available now for Black Desert on Xbox! Maegu has similar, yet distinct characteristics and combat style from her twin sister, Woosa, who was released last December. We are very excited to introduce this new class as she has quite the (Fox) Charm; let’s take a look at her weapons and key skills.

Maegu’s Weapons: Fox Charm/Binyeo Knife

Signing a deal with a revered fox spirit, Maegu lures her enemies with the Fox Charm, then lands a fatal blow with the Binyeo Knife.  

Maegu channels various spells through the Fox Spirit Charm. She can tackle enemies from long distances, and spread a dazzling display of Fox Spirit Charms.

Much like a fox, Maegu is cunning on the battlefield. Her swift movement enables her to instantly avoid enemies and dodge incoming attacks.

Maegu can also collaborate with the revered Fox Spirit on coordinated attacks that can confuse and devastate approaching enemies.

Maegu’s Key Skills

Maegu flows in with an array of combat moves and abilities that would make any enemy turn and run. Skills such as the Tethered Souls ability enable her to throw her Fox Charm and disrupt opponent movements, gaining the opportunity to then thrust her handy Binyeo Knife in their chest as shown below.

Maegu can also take a more stealthy and cunning approach by using the Foxspirit: Deceiver ability. With it, Maegu creates a doppelganger to freely switch between in the midst of battle in order to confuse enemies. Whatever skill you choose to utilize in combat, Maegu has you covered for every strategy in your arsenal.

New Class And a New Season

Along with the new class release, Black Desert is also launching a new season. If you are just starting out, this is a perfect time to create a new seasonal character and start your journey. The season servers are designed to focus on character growth, making it easier for Adventurers to get accustomed to the world of Black Desert.

Season servers are only accessible during certain periods, and only season characters can access these special servers. As you progress through the season server and gain valuable experience, season characters can graduate and enjoy the rest of the content available in Black Desert. Season servers not only have special equipment, but also a variety of benefits.

This season, new fishing benefits have been added so players can exchange Season server-exclusive fish for seasonal growth items. Fishing on the season servers will not only get you great items, but also Combat XP!

You can enjoy Black Desert on Xbox Game Pass today. Jump into the game this weekend during Black Desert’s Xbox Free Play Weekend — No Game Pass subscription necessary!

Black Desert

Pearl Abyss

☆☆☆☆☆ 347

★★★★★

Xbox One X Enhanced

Xbox Game Pass

Black Desert supports backward-compatibility on Xbox Series X|S. Black Desert is a living-world MMORPG. Experience fast-paced, action-packed combat, hunt monsters and huge bosses, fight with friends in a guild to siege nodes and region castles, train your life skills such as fishing, trading, crafting, cooking, and much more!
Players will enjoy jaw-dropping graphics,
intuitive skill-based combat, and an immersive story encased in our expansive
world that’s just waiting to be explored. Accompanied by a Black Spirit, a
companion whose destiny is intertwined with their own, players will discover
the secret of the Black Stones and the history of their corrupting effects. In a medieval fantasy setting, the game
chronicles a conflict between two rival nations, the Republic of Calpheon and
the Kingdom of Valencia. With a battle based on achievements and personal
qualifications, Black Desert gives full control to players that can directly
aim, escape and make numerous different skill combinations. [Accolades]
– Join over 10 Million Registered Users in Black Desert
– The 10 Best MMOs of 2017 – MMORPG.com
– 2016 Best new MMORPG – MMORPG.com
– 2016 MMORPG OF THE YEAR – MASSIVLY OP

It’s been lovely to watch our Xbox and Game Pass players enjoying what Fractal (our first No Man’s Sky update of 2023) had to offer and it’s been thrilling to watch you all cruising around in your shiny new Utopia Speeders and filling up your Wonders Catalogues with your latest discoveries.

Barely 6 weeks later and we are delighted to launch another major update for No Man’s Sky, and it’s one of our largest in recent memory. We’re calling Interceptor, with a brand new class of incredibly varied Starship, a bunch of new gameplay features, new world variants and a ton of new content!

The ever-present tyrants of universe enforcement, the Sentinels, have become prey to a corruption that is spreading through their factions. Only the bravest Travellers will dare venture to forsaken Sentinel worlds to investigate.

Those that do, however, will find abandoned encampments to explore, intriguing crystals to harvest and, for the most persistent, the blueprints for a hitherto undiscovered Sentinel Interceptor starship which come in a huge variety of models.

Obtaining the Interceptor for your own fleet will not be easy. The mission to recover the secret Sentinel equipment and turn this stolen technology back against the horde is fraught with danger, not least because the Sentinels have been developing advanced defence and attack technologies which they are not shy of deploying against any puny threats to their dominance.

The rewards are substantial though. Aside from the Interceptor itself, there is the prospect of securing a brand new weapon – the “Hijacked Laser” – and a unique backpack – the “Aeron Turbojet”.

As you may expect, we anticipate a fair amount of heavy combat as Travellers go toe-to-toe with their long-time adversaries at closer quarters than ever before. That’s why Interceptor comes with a large number of quality of life combat improvements, not least the opportunity to see what happens when a Sentinel freighter explodes under your attack!

As is now customary, a No Man’s Sky update comes with a huge range of other additions and improvements to almost every other area of the game. Xbox and Game Pass players can discover what’s new by downloading Interceptor today. We are really excited to bring Interceptor to our Xbox and Game Pass players, but there’s plenty more to come from our tiny team in 2023.

Our journey continues.

No Man’s Sky

Hello Games

☆☆☆☆☆ 546

★★★★★

$59.99 $29.99

Xbox One X Enhanced

PC Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass

No Man’s Sky comes complete with all 21 major updates up to and including Waypoint, our 4.0 update. Inspired by the adventure and imagination that we love from classic science-fiction, No Man’s Sky presents you with a galaxy to explore, filled with unique planets and lifeforms, and constant danger and action. In No Man’s Sky, every star is the light of a distant sun, each orbited by planets filled with life, and you can go to any of them you choose. Fly smoothly from deep space to planetary surfaces, with no loading screens, and no limits. In this infinite procedurally generated universe, you’ll discover places and creatures that no other players have seen before – and perhaps never will again. Embark on an epic voyage
At the centre of the galaxy lies a irresistible pulse which draws you on a journey towards it to learn the true nature of the cosmos. But, facing hostile creatures and fierce pirates, you’ll know that death comes at a cost, and survival will be down to the choices you make over how you upgrade your ship, your weapon and suit. Find your own destiny
Your voyage through No Man’s Sky is up to you. Will you be a fighter, preying on the weak and taking their riches, or taking out pirates for their bounties? Power is yours if you upgrade your ship for speed and weaponry.
Or a trader? Find rich resources on forgotten worlds and exploit them for the highest prices. Invest in more cargo space and you’ll reap huge rewards.
Or perhaps an explorer? Go beyond the known frontier and discover places and things that no one has ever seen before. Upgrade your engines to jump ever farther, and strengthen your suit for survival in toxic environments that would kill the unwary. Share your journey
The galaxy is a living, breathing place. Trade convoys travel between stars, factions vie for territory, pirates hunt the unwary, and the police are ever watching. Every other player lives in the same galaxy, and you can choose to share your discoveries with them on a map that spans known space. Perhaps you will see the results of their actions as well as your own…

Attention Fans: April is a big gaming month for EA Play members!

EA Sports PGA Tour

Get ready to hit the golf course early with EA Sports PGA Tour. Starting today, EA Play members can jump into a 10-hour early access trial of the game – three days before its release!

The exclusive home of the Majors, EA Sports PGA Tour’s Pure Strike shot system – featuring ShotLink powered by CDW, PGA Tour’s proprietary real-time scoring system – gives players all the tools they need to realistically attack every hole on every course the same way the pros do. With unrivaled access to 30 of the world’s most exclusive golf courses, such as Augusta National Golf Club, Pebble Beach Golf Links and more, EA Sports PGA Tour’s features all four majors in men’s golf, including the Masters Tournament, the PGA Championship, the U.S. Open Championship and The Open Championship. 

Alongside Early Access, EA Play members will also receive monthly drops of Pro Shop perks such as exclusive headcovers, shirts, hats and more, as well as 10% off pre-orders, PGA Tour Points and more.

EA Sports NHL 23

From the course to the rink, hockey fans are in for a treat this month with EA Sports NHL 23, the most authentic and immersive NHL game ever, coming to The Play List on April 13.

Powered by the Frostbite engine, the game brings fans new levels of authenticity with gameplay improvements that include over 500 new last chance playmaking animations, living arenas and atmosphere, as well as deep franchise-mode customizations – allowing the best women’s and men’s players in the world to compete on one lineup. Moreover, with cross-play, players can also play against each other on the same platform generation.

April Rewards

In addition to all the great offerings, here are even more member-only content and rewards available now in EA Play:

• Battlefield 2042 Ravine Specialist Set for Paik – Now to May 1
• Apex Legends Gilded Fortunes Weapon Charm – April 11 to May 15
• Need for Speed Unbound Nissan Fairlady ZG 1971 Epic Custom – Now to June 6
• PGA Tour Golf Hat – Now to May 8
• NHL 23 WOC The Uprise Set – Now to April 30
• FIFA 23 adidas Run for the Ocean White Tee and COINS – Now to April 27
• FIFA 23 FUT Season 5 XP Boost – Now to April 27
• FIFA 23 Pro Clubs 80s Skate Zig Zag Mask – Now to April 27
• FIFA 23 Vol. 3 Stadium Set – Now to April 27
• FIFA 23 FUT Hero Jürgen Kohler Tifo Set – Now to April 30
• Madden NFL 23 MUT April Pack – Now to May 1

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 brand-new titles, 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 Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Please see EA.com/EA-Play/Terms for terms and conditions.

Xbox can exclusively reveal the Origin Trailer for Lifeweaver, the newest hero coming to Overwatch 2. This new support hero will arrive as part of Season 4 on April 11, and offers some very new options to players looking to assist their team – and a brand new thread to the Overwatch storyline.

Niran ‘Bua’ PruksaManee is a Thai scientist who combines nature and technology to offer new ways to heal, move and damage, both for himself and his team. As with all of Overwatch’s heroes, he also comes with a rich backstory, which you can check out in the new trailer below:

All of Lifeweaver’s abilities stem from his background as a naturalist. Brought up wealthy in the sheltered world of Chiang Mai, Lifeweaver grew to love the natural world but, upon leaving home, he saw the devastation being wreaked on the environment outside of his home. He developed a new technology, bio-light, which uses the hard light wielded by the likes of fellow heroes Symmetra but fuses it with living plants. Refusing to let his parents or the Vishkar corporation use his technology for nefarious purposes, he fled home, determined to use his creation only for good.

To learn more about the creation of this unique new hero, we spoke to Overwatch 2’s Lead Narrative Designer Gavin Jurgens-Fyhrie. He explains that, as with all of Overwatch’s heroes, Lifeweaver began life as a series of gameplay ideas that needed a story created around them:

“He was design first and, from there, the story developed. What really struck the Narrative team is we knew we were going to do a plant hero, then we had to figure out how this person has plant powers. Then we saw the early prototypes and realized it doesn’t look like plants, but more like hard light, which led to his story being developed. It really highlights how the Overwatch team develops heroes, it’s very collaborative.”

The solution was to create the idea of bio-light, a new iteration of Overwatch’s existing hard light technology – already wielded by the likes of Symmetra and Lúcio. Lifeweaver created it to heal wounds and damaged plants, and wanted it to become free to use across the world – but his invention was claimed by the Vishkar corporation, a company most closely linked to Symmetra among the existing heroes.

It means that Lifeweaver’s story offers more to learn about Symmetra by association. “She was pretty much the one person at school who he understood and who understood him,” says Jurgens-Fyhrie, “and there is a lot there to explore. We can’t share too much about what is to come, but Vishkar is an important of the story, particularly for Symmetra and Lifeweaver.”

At the time of his introduction, Lifeweaver isn’t part of the in-universe Overwatch team, but Jurgens-Fyhrie says he’s known them while living as a fugitive, and is “loosely tied” to them in the same way Torbjörn is. Jurgens-Fyhrie won’t say if his story will become a part of the upcoming PvE story for the game, but we know that, “at the time of this announcement, Lifeweaver is living in the Atlantic Arcology, trying to find a way to cure diseases and heal the world.”

You’ll be able to play as Lifeweaver for free for a limited timefrom April 11, and an in-game event celebrating his addition to the roster will run until April 24. The event, also celebrating Thai New Year, will add an arcade mode, B.O.B. and Weave (which will allow players to play only as Lifeweaver), and by participating you can earn Lifeweaver’s Cassia skin (based on the national flower of Thailand, the Ratchaphruek).

Looking for a game unlike anything else out there? Look no further. Meet Your Maker launches today on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S. With Meet Your Maker we’re excited to deliver a truly unique experience; this is a first-person building-and-raiding game where every level you play has been designed by another player. It’s an FPS, but it’s also a strategic building game designed to test your creativity and cunning as much as your reflexes.

Meet Your Maker is available now, and for us, the most exciting part finally begins–getting to watch players create and challenge each other within our world. Meet Your Maker Creative Director Ash Pannell shares more about the game’s creative elements and the skills available to players.

“The amazing part of building a game that embraces the creativity of its community is that it’s incredibly friendly and positive,” shares Pannell.

“You can really see the time, effort and skill invested by master builders as they create the most intricate and amazing Outposts for the community to raid. Building and raiding are both really accessible, and since this is essentially two games in one, there’s always something fun and rewarding to do.”

3 Month Content Roadmap

We launch today with a full arsenal of traps, guards, weapons, Custodians, and more already included for Builders and Raiders to discover and master. The best part? We’re only just getting started.

Our next step is making sure our players are supported with a steady stream of new content to keep things fresh and exciting.

Let’s start with a look at everything we’ll be adding to Meet Your Maker over the next 3 months – a lot of which is either unlockable just by playing the game and earning in-game currency, or completely free.

Get Eerie With the Hellscape Deco Pack

This Deco Pack launches in a few weeks’ time, and it’ll be free and instantly accessible to all players. Deco Packs in Meet Your Maker are sets of themed building materials that add a totally new aesthetic to the game. Hellscape combines organic matter and industrial materials to create eerie, pulsating, and all-around unsettling Outposts that feel alive in the worst possible ways. The pack launches June 18th.

Unlock New Mods and Augments with Playtime

Over the first several months, we’ll also be dropping multiple new Mod and Augment additions for existing traps and guards which players can unlock with in-game currency. Builders get new ways to affect traps and guards for even more control over their setups and combos. Raiders are suddenly faced with fresh challenges to overcome just when they thought they had everything figured out. 

“Every single time we add a mod, a trap, or a guard the game just gets deeper and more intricate. It’s never a single trap or guard that makes the game interesting but the combination of all these elements within interesting spaces,” Pannell explains.

“A simple example is the Hunter mod for the Boltshot. The projectiles become homing rather than just firing in a straight line. The fact that the bolts move off the grid fundamentally changes how raiders have to react. This can then cause them to do unexpected things – like pass through a strategically placed Corrosive Cube that itself has its own mods, and so on. The game is one huge systemic sandbox, and every ingredient plays its deadly part. It may seem like a small part – but it might be the part that catches you!” 

Major Content Update – Sector 1: Dreadshore

Meet Your Maker’s first major DLC will launch at the end of June, and add a completely new environment to the game, as well a new Deco Pack, Custodian, trap, guard, weapon, and even a cosmetic collection. 

When it comes to Sectors, new environments and new deco packs will always be instantly available for free to all players upon release. The environment introduces a completely new region along with a Sector-themed set of building blocks to create a completely different style of Outpost.  All the gameplay elements are unlockable via playtime.

We’ll be packing a lot of content into every new Sector update filled with style, and – according to Pannell – game-changing substance.

“I personally love the addition of new types of traps,” Pannell says. “They’re game-changers and allow us to think of fundamental ways we can use them to alter a player’s behavior. The potential of what players will be able to do as we add more and more content is so exciting to think about.”

“Gameplay metas will form, metas will be beaten, and new metas will rise to take their place. The depth of possibility means this will happen very frequently, adding a lot of variety to the game.”

Meet Your Maker is available today!

Meet Your Maker

Behaviour Interactive Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Meet Your Maker is a post-apocalyptic first-person building-and-raiding game where every level is designed by players. Switch between roles as you mastermind devious maze-like Outposts filled with traps and guards, then gear up for methodical fast-paced combat raiding other players’ creations. THE WORLD IS DYING… You are the Custodian of the Chimera, a living experiment created as a last resort to save life on Earth. Enter a tactical battle for the planet’s most coveted resource and the key to your Chimera’s evolution: pure Genetic Material. Construct and fortify maze-like Outposts to extract and guard your Genmat. Infiltrate and outsmart other players’ Outposts to gather more. Adapt, upgrade, and evolve… or die trying. CREATE TO DESTROY Build a maze of devious deathtraps designed to lure, outwit, and kill trespassing players.
Combine a huge array of customizable blocks, traps, and guards.
Pre-record custom patrol paths for your guards with the innovative AI recording system.
Share your Outposts and watch other players take them on. Reap rewards from those who die, learn how to strengthen your creation from those who live, and never lose progress or resources by being raided. OUTWIT TO SURVIVE
Test your grit, wit, and reflexes by raiding other players’ Outposts.
Get in, grab the Genmat, and try to make it out alive.
Gain an edge by choosing the right loadout (melee, ranged, defensive), perks, and consumables to match your challenge or playstyle. Master every Outpost that stands in your way. COOPERATE & CONNECT
Combine your creativity and build with a friend or join forces to raid Outposts as a team of two.
Watch raiders challenge your Outposts via the replay system.
Grow your Outpost’s reputation with community feedback.
Find your friends and favorite Builders, and play their Outposts any time.