Schlagwort: xbox series x

  • Drop Into Halo Infinite’s Latest Operation: Spirit of Fire

    Drop Into Halo Infinite’s Latest Operation: Spirit of Fire

    Reading Time: 7 minutes

    Halo Infinite’s latest update, Content Update 29 (“CU29”), has arrived alongside the launch of the newest Operation: Spirit of Fire!

    The latest free update for Halo Infinite brings the legendary Mjolnir Mark IV armor core, multi-core shoulder customization alongside a slew of HCS and Silver Team-themed goodness for your Spartan, a new map, three new Operations, and much more—let’s dive into to check it all out…

    CONTENTS

    OVERVIEW

    • UPDATE OVERVIEW – Catch up on our January 19 Community Livestream which outlines the content in this update and our approach to Halo Infinite going forwards this year.
    • MAP OVERVIEW – Take a guided tour of Illusion, the new Arena map.
    • FORGE OVERVIEW – Learn more about the new features and improvements coming to Forge, including the Covenant palette, Mode Creator, and more.
    • CUSTOMIZATION OVERVIEW – Get a closer look at the Mark IV Armor Core, customization improvements, and upcoming Operations.

    OPERATION: SPIRIT OF FIRE

    As part of today’s update, all players will receive the classic Mark IV Armor Core for free. Simply jump into the game and you’ll find it waiting for you in the Armor Hall.

    This fan-favorite armor has appeared in the likes of Halo Wars and Halo Wars 2, Halo Legends, Halo 5: Guardians, and now this legendary iteration of Mjolnir has come to Halo Infinite.

    Halo Infinite image of three Spartans clad in Mark IV armor

    And what better way to kick off the update than with the opportunity to further outfit the Mark IV Armor Core?

    Enter Operation: Spirit of Fire, which runs from January 30 to March 5 and features 20 tiers of free customization rewards, including new armor attachments, coatings, weapon charms, emblems, and more.

    You know the drill with Operations now: in addition to the free pass, there are two additional premium options you can purchase.

    • 500 credits will make the Operation Pass durable (it will not expire), offers bonus XP during the Operation’s live window, an extra Challenge slot while your pass is equipped, and comes with an exclusive customization item.
    • 2,000 credits instantly unlocks all 20 tiers of the Operation Pass at purchase and includes the exclusive bonus customization item.

    The bonus customization item for this Operation is the Evolved MA5—a weapon model for your Assault Rifle that will transform the sleek and modern MA40 into the classically chunky design reminiscent of the MA5B seen in Halo: CE and Halo Wars.

    Halo Infinite screenshot of a Spartan in Mark IV armor holding an Assault Rifle with the Evolved MA5 weapon model

    When the Spirit of Fire Operation concludes on March 5, there are still two more free Operations that will take us through April 30!

    CYBER SHOWDOWN III
    MARCH 5-APRIL 2

    Themed around the concept of a “viral machine,” the latest exploration of these Created champions veers more into the realm of cybernetic horror that reflects the twisted nature of their creation. Jump into Halo Infinite on March 5 to unlock 20 tiers of new customization rewards for your CHIMERA Armor Core. 

    THE YAPPENING II
    APRIL 2-APRIL 30

    The Yappening II arrives in April to help you celebrate the season of fools with 20 tiers of Grunty goodness. 

    ILLUSION

    Today’s update also brings a brand-new map to Halo Infinite, titled Illusion.

    Illusion takes place within an abandoned ONI black site where old experiments with recovered (and familiar) Covenant technology remain.

    Described as a love letter to the map design of Halo: Combat Evolved, Illusion features a unique mid-section where a corridor possesses the traits of active camouflage—so players who go into the center will turn invisible.

    MULTI-USE SHOULDER CUSTOMIZATION

    Our multi-use journey for Halo Infinite’s customization continues with the addition of shoulder pads that can be equipped across any Armor Core.

    Like before, this multi-use expansion of armor works retroactively, so all of your current shoulder pads are multi-core enabled and all shoulders going forward will be multi-core as well.

    Following on from work that has been accomplished over previous updates to make helmets, visors, and many coatings multi-core, there are now billions of possible combinations available in Halo Infinite. We can’t wait to see the latest and greatest Spartan drip out on the battlefield!

    FORGE UPDATES

    Forge continues to evolve as we target highly requested additions, enhancements, and quality-of-life improvements. Here are some of the highlights of the new toys you’re able to play with in Halo Infinite’s Forge:

    COVENANT OBJECT PALETTE

    Halo Infinite screenshot of the Covenant object palette coming in CU29

    Need more purple? Over 70 new Covenant-themed structure pieces, primitives, accents, and decals are now available for Forgers to create exciting experiences that harken back to Halo’s roots.

    FORGE MODE CREATOR

    Halo Infinite screenshot of the Action Menu showing the option to Create Mode Prefab

    This new functionality allows players to script modes in the Node Graph like a prefab, then save, share, and play those experiences—just like you would share a mode created in the Custom Game menu.

    The Forge Mode Creator will make it easier for modes to be shared and played, hooked up to community maps, and free up map budget (as mode logic will no longer come with a map budget cost).

    To learn more about the ins and outs of the Forge Mode Creator (along with a more thorough breakdown of other additions and improvements), check out our Forge Overview blog!

    MATERIAL SWAP

    Players can now adjust up to three colors on select foliage objects and add further set dressing and detail to their maps with decals that mimic stains, foliage overgrowth, and more.

    First person perspective of a player looking at various foliage Forge objects with different colors and materials.

    FORGE AI TOOLKIT IMPROVEMENTS

    New behaviors and traits have been added to the Forge AI Toolkit, including:

    • New Squad Behavior – Wander When Idle

    Available on the AI Spawner object. When set to ON, AI units in this spawned squad will wander around their assigned AI Move Zone when idle.

    • New AI Trait Nodes

    New AI Traits include:

    • Bonus Health
    • Bottomless Clip
    • Damage Resistance
    • Health Recharge
    • Movement Speed
    • Movement Speed With Turret
    • Prevent Weapon Firing
    • Vampirism
    • Weapon Damage

    More is on the way to Halo Infinite’s Forge this year, including Flood and alien-themed palettes.

    SILVER TEAM, SILVER SCREEN

    Season Two of the Halo television series debuts on Paramount+ with a two-episode premiere on February 8, and we’ve got some unmissable Ultimate Rewards for you to earn!

    Complete all your challenges on these respective weeks to earn each of these Silver Team helmets, available across all your Armor Cores. 

    WEEK ONE: KAI-125
    JANUARY 30-FEBRUARY 6

    WEEK TWO: RIZ-028
    FEBRUARY 6-13 

    WEEK FOUR: VANNAK-134
    FEBRUARY 20-27

    Visors for each member of Silver Team will also be given as free rewards! Simply log into Halo Infinite on these corresponding weeks and they will be unlocked for you.

    HCS

    YEAR ONE LAUNCH BUNDLES RETURN

    After much demand from the community, we are bringing back the first bundles for each HCS team that Halo Infinite launched with back in 2021—with some major improvements!

    The armor and weapon kits have been unlocked, which means you can now customize with these coatings for the first time ever. Additionally, they are all now multi-use which means you can wear the armor, visors, or weapon coatings on any armor, helmet, or UNSC weapon.

    If you already purchased these launch bundles when Halo Infinite released, the content will be applied retroactively. If you missed these bundles the first time around, they’re now available again for teams that are still in the Halo Championship Series: FaZe Clan, OpTic Gaming, Sentinels, Spacestation Gaming, and Cloud9.

    YEAR THREE LAUNCH BUNDLES

    Year 3 HCS bundles have also arrived with all-new designs, featuring new multi-use armor coatings as well as visors. These have been created by the teams themselves, featuring their unique branding.

    Additionally, acquire the Dracon Bandit weapon model for the M392 Bandit and Bandit EVO by grabbing the bundle that supports your favorite HCS team—the majority of the profits go to the partnered teams to maintain their involvement in the Halo ecosystem.

    SHOP 

    Head to the Shop and you will find some exciting new Halo Wars-inspired bundles, featuring the likes of Omega Team to further outfit your free Mark IV armor…

    Halo Infinite image of the Omega Team bundle

    …and the Stanchion weapon model for your S7 Sniper.

    Halo Infinite image of a Spartan holding a sniper with the M99A2S3 Stanchion weapon model

    SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING

    You can submit tickets on a wide range of topics that include reports of Audio Issues, Crashes, Game Save Corruption, Report a Player, General Bug Reports, and more.

    Operation: Spirit of Fire is live and Content Update 29 is officially ready for download!

    Explore Illusion and see what fun Easter eggs you can find, outfit your new Mark IV Armor Core and start working your way through that free 20-tier Operation Pass, take a look at what new shoulder pad combinations can perfect the look of your Spartan, check out the latest additions and improvements to Forge, and chip away at those weekly challenges to unlock the helmets of Silver Team over the next few weeks.

    PRESS KIT

    Website: LINK

  • Toronto Blue Jays Star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Takes the Cover of MLB The Show 24, Coming Day One to Game Pass

    Toronto Blue Jays Star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Takes the Cover of MLB The Show 24, Coming Day One to Game Pass

    Reading Time: < 1 minute

    UNLOCK THE MOMENT. OWN THE SHOW.

    Swing for the fences, experience game-deciding moments, become a legend and live out your baseball dreams in MLB® The Show™ 24. Everyone has a moment to own. Everyone has a story to tell. Unlock your moment. Own The Show.

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    Website: LINK

  • Microsoft Flight Simulator Releases Local Legend 14: The Bell 47J Ranger

    Microsoft Flight Simulator Releases Local Legend 14: The Bell 47J Ranger

    Reading Time: 5 minutes

    Microsoft Flight Simulator celebrates a historic era of rotary wing aviation with this Local Legend release!

    BIRTH OF A LEGEND

    The single-engine, four-seat Bell 47J Ranger is one of the most important and successful helicopters developed in the early era of rotary wing aviation. Renowned for its versatility, ruggedness, and reliability, the Ranger traces its development to the Golden Age of Flight, the period from the end of World War I to the beginning of World War II aeronautical technology enjoyed remarkable strides. In the late 1920s, American Arthur Young, inspired by flight innovations of the time, began independently experimenting with basic helicopter design. In 1941, after more than a decade of work on his own, Young joined the Bell Aircraft Company to develop a full-size, fully functioning helicopter.

    His work yielded the Bell 30, a demonstration helicopter that took its maiden flight on June 26, 1943. The successful Bell 30 design provided the basis for Bell’s first commercial helicopter, the Bell 47. The Bell 47 is a “tail rotor helicopter” that uses a 2-blade main rotor and a 2-blade anti-torque tail rotor. The prototype took its maiden flight on December 8, 1945, and Bell introduced the first production variant, the 2-seat 47A, in 1946. The 47A was the first helicopter to be certified for civilian use in the United States and soon became widely adopted for a variety of applications. Many iterations followed, including the H-13 Sioux, used by the U.S. and British military.

    YEARS OF SUCCESS AND REFINEMENT

    The Bell 47 family of rotorcraft became one of the most successful aircraft lineages, of any type, in history. Bell and other companies under its license manufactured more than 5,000 47s. Many remain airworthy decades after the prototype first flew. In the Fall of 1954, Bell introduced the Bell 47G, a powerful 4-seat general utility version of the 47. The Bell47H, based on the 47G, quickly followed. The 47H was the first helicopter intended for executive use, and Bell sold only 33 models of it. Although the 47H proved a commercial disappointment, Bell remained steadfast in its resolve to introduce a helicopter for the business and executive transport market.

    THE BELL 47J RANGER TAKES FLIGHT

    In 1956, Bell released the 47J Ranger, a 4-seat version of the 47H. Larger than its predecessor, and fitted with a more powerful engine, it proved a great success. The Ranger was the first helicopter to transport a sitting American president and was featured in a number of popular movies, including the James Bond film “Thunderball.”

    The Bell 47J features a single-pilot console that is centered at the forward portion of the cabin. The helicopter’s bubble canopy provides maximum visual situational awareness for the pilot, with a 180-degree unobstructed field of view. The cabin is roomy and has seating for up to three passengers behind the pilot. The helicopter uses standard skids for its landing gear and can be fitted with floats for marine operations.

    The 47J Ranger proved to be one of the most successful members of the Bell 47 family. The company manufactured 361 Rangers, with a mix of civil and military subvariants. The helicopter was used worldwide for both commercial applications and in transport for the governments of a dozen nations. In addition to executive transport, the Ranger was used to move people and cargo, air ambulance, commuter flights, aerial surveying, and a variety of military applications, including liaison and reconnaissance.

    The U.S. Air Force purchased two 47Js, designated UH-13J Sioux, in March of 1957 for use as the first presidential transport helicopters in American history. On July 12, 1957, American President Dwight D. Eisenhower became the first U.S. president to be transported by helicopter when an Air Force Sioux lifted off from the White House lawn. The Bell 47J measures 32 feet, 5 inches in length, stands 9 feet, 3 inches tall, and has a
    2-blade main rotor system with a diameter of 37 feet, 2 inches. It is powered by a 6-cylinder Lycoming VO-540-B1B piston engine that delivers up to 260 horsepower to the rotor systems. It has a range of 260 miles, climbs at 870 feet per minute, and has a service ceiling of 11,000 feet above sea level. It cruises at 91 miles per hour and has a top speed of 105 mph.

    THE MICROSOFT FLIGHT SIMULATOR BELL 47J RANGER EXPERIENCE

    The Microsoft Flight Simulator Bell 47J Ranger is the 14th aircraft in the franchise’s Local Legend series, and the first time a rotary-wing craft has been featured. Recreated in stunning detail, Microsoft Flight Simulator pilots will savor their time in the 47J Ranger’s cockpit, flying one of rotary wing aviation’s great icons throughout the world.

    With two landing gear types—conventional skids and floats—pilots will be able to explore the entire globe through endless flying opportunities. Each variant is available with seven liveries: White; White and Blue; Red, White, and Black; Yellow; Red, White, and Blue; Xbox Aviators Club; and Aviators Club. Buy it today for $14.99. The sky is calling!

    Microsoft Flight Simulator is available for Xbox Series X|S and PC with Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass, Windows, and Steam, and on Xbox One and supported mobile phones, tablets, and lower-spec PCs via Xbox Cloud Gaming. For the latest information on Microsoft Flight Simulator, stay tuned to @MSFSOfficial on Twitter.

    Website: LINK

  • Microsoft Flight Simulator’s World Update XVI: Caribbean Brings Unprecedented Realism For Pilots to the exotic, tropical Caribbean region

    Microsoft Flight Simulator’s World Update XVI: Caribbean Brings Unprecedented Realism For Pilots to the exotic, tropical Caribbean region

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Explore the white sand beaches and emerald waters of one of the most beautiful regions on the planet!

    The Caribbean, a seemingly endless series of islands mostly located just east of Central America between the North and South American continental land masses, is globally recognized as one of the most exotic and beautiful regions on the planet. The Microsoft Flight Simulator team is pleased to add World Update XVI: Caribbean to its long and growing list of global enhancements so that aviators can experience this storied part of the globe like never before.

    World Update XVI: Caribbean covers a broad swath of Caribbean locales, including Antigua, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos, and the United States Virgin Islands.

    World Update XVI: Caribbean delivers 104 POIs (points of interest), including: Bahama’s Nassau Harbor Lighthouse, Jamaica’s Colbeck Castle, Puerto Rico’s Faro De Pampatar, and Trinidad & Tobago’s Red House.

    Gaya Simulations, a trusted Microsoft Flight Simulator partner, has also hand-crafted seven airports: Dominican Republic’s Gregorio Luperón International Airport (Puerto Plata Airport) (MDPP), Haiti’s Antoine-Simon Airport (MTCA), Jamaica’s Sangster International Airport (MKJS), Trinidad & Tobago’s A.N.R. Robinson International Airport (formerly Crown Point International Airport) (TTCP), North Eleuthera Airport (MYEH) in Bahamas, and Guadeloupe’s Les Saintes Airport (TFFS).

    World Update XVI: Caribbean also includes nine activities that perfectly complement the update:

    • Three Discovery Flights: Saint Lucia, Saint Martin, and San
      Juan, Puerto Rico
    • Three Landing Challenges: The Dominican Republic’s Gregorio
      Luperón International Airport (MDPP), a Famous Landing
      Challenge; North Eleuthera Airport (MYEH) of The Bahamas,
      an Epic Landing Challenge; and Haiti’s Antoine-Simon Airport
      (MTCA)
    • An Epic Landing Challenge.
    • Three Bush Trips showcasing the beauty of the region

    Microsoft Flight Simulator partnered with Bing Maps, Maxar, and a host of Caribbean governmental organizations to bring this magnificent update to simmers. The team ingested a massive trove of geospatial data for World Update XVI: Caribbean, including aerial photographs, satellite data, LIDAR (light detection and ranging) data, DEM (digital elevation model) data, and DTM (digital terrain model) data.

    World Update XVI: Caribbean is available FREE to all owners of Microsoft Flight Simulator. Ensure that your simulator is updated to version 1.35.21.0, download World Update XVI: Caribbean, and discover the stunning landscape of the Caribbean in Microsoft Flight Simulator! The sky is calling!

    Microsoft Flight Simulator is available for Xbox Series X|S and PC with Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass, Windows, and Steam, and on Xbox One and supported mobile phones, tablets, and non-optimized PCs via Xbox Cloud Gaming. For the latest information on Microsoft Flight Simulator, follow @MSFSOfficial on Instagram and “X” (formerly Twitter).

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha (2402.240125-2000)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha (2402.240125-2000)

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

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

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

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details:

    • OS Version: XB_FLT_2402ZN\25398.3453.240125-2000
    • Available: 2 p.m. PT – January 29, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – January 30, 2024

    Fixes Included

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

    Capture & Share

    • Fixed an issue which could prevent uploading captures to OneDrive.

    System

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

    Known Issues

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

    Audio

    • We have received reports of users experiencing intermittent issues with audio across the dashboard, games, and apps. If you have experienced issues, be sure you have the latest firmware updates for your TV and other equipment. If you’re unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance.
      • Note: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware updates, please submit feedback via Report a Problem immediately with the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”. Be sure to include as much information as possible:
        • When did the issue start?
        • Did you lose audio just in the game/app or system audio as well?
        • Does changing the audio format resolve the issue? If yes, what was the format before and after?
        • Does rebooting resolve the issue?
        • What does your setup include? Equipment, layout, etc.
        • And any additional information you can provide to reproduce the problem.

    Game Card

    • Some users are reporting an unexpected black screen when opening the game card or selecting “Show in Microsoft Store” after it has opened, and we are investigating.

    Games

    • We are investigating user reports of some titles experiencing unexpected display or graphical issues.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to their network as expected on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.

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

    What Happens to Your Feedback

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

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

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

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

    Website: LINK

  • Creating the Bahnsen Knights Universe – A Love Letter to Old-School Games and Pulps

    Creating the Bahnsen Knights Universe – A Love Letter to Old-School Games and Pulps

    Reading Time: 5 minutes
    • LCB Game Studio’s third Pixel Pulp, is out now on Xbox.
    • Unique interactive fiction experience merging 20th-century ‘Pulps’ with 80s game aesthetics.
    • A captivating fusion of undercover cop drama, supernatural beliefs, and tornado-chasing road trips.

    Bahnsen Knights is the third Pixel Pulp released by LCB Game Studio. A Pixel Pulp is our own way of understanding interactive fiction, trying to bring together two distant elements such as the genre narratives of the early twentieth century— the so-called ‘Pulps’—and the computer games of the 80s, with their limited palettes and with a whole history of possibilities ahead as a medium.

    But what we term “Pixel Pulps” is not mere nostalgia; it’s a glimpse into a past that might have been.

    History of Bahnsen Knights

    In Bahnsen Knights, players assume the role of Boulder, investigating the disappearance of a fellow Agency member by infiltrating the Bahnsen Knights—a cult led by Toni, a former used car salesman. Toni believes that hell is above us, and tornadoes are the devil’s doing. With his Bahnsen Knights, Toni drives his Sierra to conduct ‘road exorcisms’, as a way to fight F5 tornadoes.

    As with all Pixel Pulps, Bahnsen Knights aims to craft a gripping narrative experience reminiscent of stories published in pulp magazines from the first half of the 20th Century—stories that refuse to release their grip on readers.

    BK screenshot

    Art of Bahnsen Knights

    The starting point was the color palette of the ZX Spectrum console, limited to six colors plus black and white with two levels of brightness. Although the palette can be strident when used in its entirety, this is part of its charm and nostalgia.

    To create distinct identities for each game, we reduced the palette to a couple of colors for each Pixel Pulp. Drawing parallels with magazine printing techniques—mixing small dots of two colors to create the illusion of a third color—we aimed to achieve this effect.

    In Bahnsen Knights, centered around an undercover cop, saturating everything in red felt appropriate, creating a continuous sense of alertness. Combining it with magenta gives the visuals a vibrant neon 80s quality that complements the story perfectly.

    BK screenshot

    Input in Bahnsen Knights

    Our Pixel Pulps use a choice-based input system, extending beyond choose-your-own-adventure decisions to control mini-games. In Bahnsen Knights, this is no different. This system not only aligns with certain game genres we love but also allows us to experiment with game design elements such as time, muscle memory, and reflexes. And like our other Pixel Pulps, Bahnsen Knights includes a variant of a solitaire we designed… Cross Solitaire!

    Time in Bahnsen Knights

    Time is a crucial element that enhances the gripping nature of the story. As an infiltrated agent, Boulder is always on the verge of discovery, leaving no room for rest.

    Experimenting with quick-time events, counters, and other game design resources, we aim to break the passivity of reading an interactive fiction, where time is usually on the player’s side—one of the achievements of the game has to do with this, specifically with the reading time… can you unlock it?

    BK screenshot

    What Could Have Been and What Might be

    Our Pixel Pulps – rooted in pulp-like narratives, pixel aesthetics reminiscent of a 1980s that might have been, and a control system that allows itself to experiment as if the video game industry hadn’t already calcified some design practices – are not products of a past we yearn for, but of a past yet to come. We hope you enjoy discovering this little universe of ours!

    Bahnsen Knights
    Xbox Live

    Bahnsen Knights

    Chorus Worldwide Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $9.99

    In a world of religious fanaticism, F5 tornadoes and Ford Sierras you are Boulder, an undercover agent. Your assignment sees you infiltrate the Bahnsen Knights, a deadly, supercharged cult with an enigmatic leader. In this murky and dangerous world you must keep your wits about you and stay alive to unravel the mystery behind an old friend’s disappearance. Who are the Bahnsen Knights?
    The Bahnsen Knights are the fastest cult in the land. Powered by religious fanaticism and supercharged Sierras they follow their charismatic leader Toni as they unleash hell upon earth. What are their aims? Why are they performing ‘route exorcisms’ and babbling about ‚miracles on the road‘? And adding to the enigma: Why are they holding paranormal investigator Lou Hill captive in a trunk? An enigmatic leader
    The Bahnsen Knights’ highest authority, Toni, is an ex-car salesman preaching that Hell is not below but above us all. He was being investigated by agent Cupra, one of your oldest friends in the Agency. But now Cupra’s gone. Does Toni have something to do with his disappearance? An undercover agent
    You thought you had seen everything in all your years working for the Agency, but this assignment is something else, something personal, something darker… and it scares you. Will you be able to keep it together for long enough to uncover what happened to Cupra and take down Toni and the Bahnsen Knights once and for all? Danger lies around every corner and every conversation. You just need to stay alive! Features
    – Immerse yourself in the story with its rich, branching narratives and evocative illustrations
    – Decide the fate of characters in ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ style gameplay
    – Earn the trust of the Bahnsen Knights to survive the investigation
    – Piece together more of the interconnected world of Pixel Pulps
    – Accessible, brain-tickling puzzles throughout the story… including the return of solitaire! A Pixel Pulps adventure
    Bahnsen Knights is a standalone experience and the third in the Pixel Pulps series of interactive adventures. Created by novelist Nico Saraintaris and artist Fernando Martinez Ruppel, Pixel Pulps fuse exceptional writing and stunning illustration, inspired by mid-20th century pulp fiction and 80s home computer graphics. The first volume comprises three games: Mothmen 1966, Varney Lake, and Bahnsen Knights. Bahnsen Knights, like all the Pixel Pulps, is made to be played by anyone who enjoys fine storytelling.

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha (2402.240124-2200)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha (2402.240124-2200)

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

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

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

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details:

    • OS Version: XB_FLT_2402ZN\25398.3450.240124-2200
    • Available: 2 p.m. PT – January 26, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – January 27, 2024

    New Features and Experiences

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

    Xbox Game Pass

    When launching an Xbox Game Pass title that is leaving the catalog soon, a random subset of users will see we have re-enabled a new dialog which will help clarify exactly when it is leaving and offer an easy path to purchase the game to keep playing even after it has left.

    Fixes Included

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

    System

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

    Known Issues

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

    Audio

    • We have received reports of users experiencing intermittent issues with audio across the dashboard, games, and apps. If you have experienced issues, be sure you have the latest firmware updates for your TV and other equipment. If you’re unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance.
      • Note: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware updates, please submit feedback via Report a Problem immediately with the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”. Be sure to include as much information as possible:
        • When did the issue start?
        • Did you lose audio just in the game/app or system audio as well?
        • Does changing the audio format resolve the issue? If yes, what was the format before and after?
        • Does rebooting resolve the issue?
        • What does your setup include? Equipment, layout, etc.
        • And any additional information you can provide to reproduce the problem.

    Game Card

    • Some users are reporting an unexpected black screen when opening the game card or selecting “Show in Microsoft Store” after it has opened, and we are investigating.

    Games

    • We are investigating user reports of some titles experiencing unexpected display or graphical issues.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to their network as expected on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.

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

    What Happens to Your Feedback

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

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

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

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

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha Skip-Ahead (2408.240123-2000)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha Skip-Ahead (2408.240123-2000)

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

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

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

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details:

    • OS Version: RS_XBOX_DEV_FLIGHT\26039.1003.240123-2000
    • Available: 2 p.m. PT – January 26, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – January 27, 2024

    New Features and Experiences

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

    Xbox Game Pass

    When launching an Xbox Game Pass title that is leaving the catalog soon, a random subset of users will see we have re-enabled a new dialog which will help clarify exactly when it is leaving and offer an easy path to purchase the game to keep playing even after it has left.

    Xbox Guide

    Starting today, a random subset of users will notice a new experience in some areas of the guide. If you have feedback, be sure to submit it via Report a Problem!

    Fixes Included

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

    System

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

    Known Issues

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

    Audio

    • We have received reports of users experiencing intermittent issues with audio across the dashboard, games, and apps. If you have experienced issues, be sure you have the latest firmware updates for your TV and other equipment. If you’re unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance.
      • Note: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware updates, please submit feedback via Report a Problem immediately with the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”. Be sure to include as much information as possible:
        • When did the issue start?
        • Did you lose audio just in the game/app or system audio as well?
        • Does changing the audio format resolve the issue? If yes, what was the format before and after?
        • Does rebooting resolve the issue?
        • What does your setup include? Equipment, layout, etc.
        • And any additional information you can provide to reproduce the problem.

    Game Card

    • Some users are reporting an unexpected black screen when opening the game card or selecting “Show in Microsoft Store” after it has opened, and we are investigating.

    Games

    • We are investigating user reports of some titles experiencing unexpected display or graphical issues.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to their network as expected on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.

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

    What Happens to Your Feedback

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

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

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

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

    Website: LINK

  • Good Fortune & Good Adventuring Arrive in Forza Horizon 5 for Lunar New Year

    Good Fortune & Good Adventuring Arrive in Forza Horizon 5 for Lunar New Year

    Reading Time: 9 minutes

    “Amid the sound of firecrackers, a year has come to an end,” and what better way to welcome the good fortune that the new year brings than with a nice drive through the Horizon Festival’s new features. This celebration will not last two weeks, though; the Horizon Festival has four weeks of content to celebrate this new lunar cycle. Each of these weeks comes with a reward car featuring some of the greatest vehicles to ever come out of the Middle Kingdom! Take it a step further and purchase the Chinese Lucky Stars Car Pack which includes three cars destined for greatness made in China and a VW that stole the country’s heart. Your luck doesn’t end there; thirteen previous reward cars make their way back to the Festival as Autoshow cars are available from January 30. Another firecracker blast from the past sets in with the extended night cycle that makes a return for this series. Gather your family for an amazing, traditional dinner, and some laps around the Horizon Festival with the Lunar New Year Update!

    Release Notes & Game Fixes

    New Features:

    • 13 Previous Exclusive Reward cars added to the Autoshow

    • 9 Lunar New Year EventLab Props

    • 1 Lunar New Year Collector Accolade

    • Chinese Lucky Stars Pack becomes available for purchase

    • 5 new unlockable Festival Playlist Reward Cars

    • Limited Timed Series Features

    — Evolving World: Stadium Drift Arena

    — Evolving World: Dragon Drone Show

    — Evolving World: Fireworks collectible

    • 2 Badges: Feeling Lucky, Lunar Dragon

    • Returning Extended Nights

    Bug Fixes

    • Improved the audio for the 2008 Aston Martin DBS

    • Fixed issues that occurred while trying to redeem a car through the message center

    • Fixed issues with players getting kicked out of the Weekly Trial

    • Solved the issue causing “Tropical Storm” and “Dust Storm” not to show up in Photo Mode during Spring Season

    • Fixed cosmetic issues on the 1970 Fast X Dodge Charger, 1966 Fast X Chevrolet Impala, and the 2022 Gordon Murray T.50

    You can find a list of issues we are currently investigating here. The Troubleshooting Hub is always open for you to leave any reports you have.

    The Year of the Dragon is Here.

    People born on a Dragon year are said to be full of energy and drive; the Horizon Festival is no different of course!

    From tracks to props, dragons will flood the Festival to celebrate the Lunar New Year along with many other features to discover.

    Crouching Tiger, Drifting Dragon

    The Stadium twists and turns into a Drift Arena!

    Whatever path you decide to take on this track, be true to yourself. The Drift Arena’s curves and bends will have you using every ancient secret of drifting to go on a complete lap. Driving around certain areas of the raceway or near its corners will trigger a smoke effect. Hold your drift, don’t let it catch you off guard!

    Besides the myriad of tight corners, multiple red dragons dance through the course creating rings you can drive through. Keep exploring the Stadium and find the Fireworks Collectible hidden inside it.

    A Dragon watches over as you burn rubber in the tight corners and twists of the Drift Arena!

    Watch a Dragon Dance Done the Horizon Way.

    Once you are done burning rubber, the Drift Arena will be hosting a Drone Show at night during the four weeks of Lunar New Year starting on February 1.

    During daytime, drones will turn into traditional lanterns that will line up in the pattern of a dragon and prance along the sky as the drones do at night.

    Building Your Own Tradition.

    The spirit of Lunar New Year celebrates creativity with nine new props to use for your EventLab creations all with a season motif.

    Give your tracks an impressive guardian and unique look using the Lunar Dragon. Provide the community with a place to moon gaze including the Lunar Lookout on your creations.

    These are the nine props and decorations added in this new update:

    • Decoration

    — Lunar Dragon Head

    — Lunar Dragon Body

    — Lunar Dragon Tail

    • Ramps & Platforms

    — Lunar Lookout

    • Walls & Fences:

    — Lunar Barrier Gold

    — Lunar Barrier Red

    • Signs & Flags

    — Lunar Flag Gold

    — Lunar Flag Red

    Firework Box

    What’s in this Year’s Red Envelopes

    The biggest hitters that ever came out of China make an appearance at the Horizon Festival as Lunar New Year’s Reward Cars. Go deeper into Chinese automotive culture and history with the Chinese Lucky Stars Car Pack which will be available for purchase for USD $4.99 / GBP £3.99 / EU €4.99 On January 30

    To top it all off, the cars our community chose to return are finally in the Autoshow; snatch these ghosts from the past before they fade away!

    Returning Rewards in the Autoshow.

    It seems luck is in your favor this year, as the Autoshow will feature thirteen cars during these four weeks.

    The long-awaited returning reward cars are here. Our community picked ten previous reward-exclusive cars from a list of options to become available on the Autoshow, and they are finally here! Get those credits ready to grab the rewards you missed starting January 30.

    Make room in your garage for three Asian newcomers hitting the Festival’s Autoshow on Lunar New Year. From racing to family, these cars are waiting to be modified and turned into your favorite ride.

    10 Returning Cars (announced with Community Choice):

    • 1990 Porsche 911 Reimagined by Singer

    • 2010 Aston Martin One-77

    • 2021 Lamborghini Sian Roadster

    • 2021 Rimac Nevera

    • 2010 Ferrari 599XX

    • 1971 Porsche #23 917/20

    • 1962 Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso1990

    • 1967 Ferrari #24 Ferrari Spa 330 P4

    • 2018 Italdesign Zerouno

    • 1965 Peel Trident

    3 New Cars

    • 2019 Hyundai Veloster N

    • 2020 Xpeng P7

    • 2021 Lynk & Co 03

    Chinese Lucky Stars Car Pack

    Collect and drive four of China’s biggest golden stars!

    The latest Car Pack for Forza Horizon 5 includes 4 cars made locally and VW’s biggest hit in China. Take a deeper look at the vehicles featured in the Chinese Lucky Stars Car Pack.

    2022 Lynk & Co 05+

    Reading a plus sign at the end of a car’s name can only mean one thing: it’s time to ramp up the crazy.

    Adding 14 more horsepower and 29 lb-ft of torque, the 2022 Lynk & Co 05+ does exactly that, turning a regular SUV into a crossover vehicle with a need for the track.

    The Co 05+ has been fitted with a multi-link independent suspension system and a new body kit with wings and a front lip to improve downforce.

    Lynk & Co’s signature SUV has the power, styling, and gear to take over the Horizon Festival this series!

    2023 MG Cyberster

    The spiritual successor of MG’s TF is finally here with a dash of Chinese spice and three times to power to make the wait worthwhile.

    Enter the 2023 MG Cyberster, an electric convertible equipped with an all-wheel drive system and an engine capable of producing 536 bhp. This automotive fist of electronic fury can accelerate from 0-100 kmh in just 3.2 seconds, putting it right with the big hitters of the Festival.

    MG’s legacy combined with the best of Chinese engineering make the MG Cyberster one of your best choices for a light cruise or the harshest of races.

    2022 Wuling Hongguang Mini EV Macaron

    What is not to love about the 2022 Wuling Hongguang Mini EV Macaron? Agile body, lovely name (translates to sunshine in English), electrically- powered, a paintjob you can almost taste…this lovely macaron is a warrior of the concrete jungle!

    They say, “simplicity is the key to brilliance”, and this small vehicle is designed to deal with everyday urban challenges took it as its core. This practical little car is in the race to become number 1 in your heart.

    Turn this panda into the ultimate Dragon Warrior with a few customization tweaks and skadoosh around the Horizon Festival this series!

    2012 Volkswagen Santana

    The German wonder that stole China’s heart, the 2012 Volkswagen Santana is arriving to the Horizon Festival this series.

    Considered VW’s biggest hit on the Asian continent, the Santana was one of the first European cars affordable in China. This made it the first choice for taxis and government vehicles.

    Germany’s Chinese connection will provide you with a ton of charm, countless hours of fun, and (above all) a ton of customization opportunities. Snatch yours this series with our latest Car Pack.

    If you weren’t sure how to spend those red envelope earnings, this is your sign to get the Chinese Lucky Stars Car Pack for $4.99 USD available for purchase now.

    Festival Playlist

    Four weeks of great luck and rewards come in with Lunar New Year.

    This month’s reward cars feature Horizon newcomers from the Asian continent including Hyundai, Lynk & Co, and MG.

    Take a look at five amazing reward cars you will be able to unlock this series.

    2022 Hyundai Kona

    The first week of this Festival Playlist brings a crossover SUV from Korea, the turbocharged and freshly overhauled 2022 Hyundai Kona.

    The 2022 model received a very fitting makeover with its exterior being almost entirely a new design with more sportive lines and finishes. To wrap up the changes and upgrades, the Kona was fitted with a 195-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

    Whether you want to turn the Kona into an off-roading legend or have it perform at its best on the road, you will be able to unlock and modify it to your pleasing for 20 PTS on the first week of the Festival Playlist.

    2022 Hyundai IONIQ 6

    The performance model in Hyundai’s line of electric vehicles will reach the Horizon Festival as a Series Reward for Lunar New Year.

    The 2022 Hyundai IONIQ 6 is an EV with an aerodynamic look and function that not only makes it run more efficiently, but it also allows it to perform like a sports saloon on the track. The IONIQ 6 can take off from standstill to 100 kmh in just 5.1 seconds.

    An electric car that screams performance with its flaps, aerodynamic mirrors, and wheel gap reducers, the Hyundai IONIQ 6 is a great pick for those looking to use less gas and still be fast.

    2022 Lynk & Co 02 HB

    Yes, you guessed right: HB stands for hatchback, which is another word for “I’m going to have so much fun in this car”.

    The 2022 Lynk & Co 02 HB is the Chinese company’s shot at giving the world a hot hatch they can Phoenix dance in. This model is equipped with the Volvo Drive-E 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that we have seen in the Swedish company’s S60, XC70, and V70.

    To put their own spin to it, the 02 comes with an overpower option that boosts its torque from 350 Nm to 380 Nm, and let’s this small powerhouse dash from 0 to 100 in 6.2 seconds.

    Drift Arena and a hot hatch, need we say more?

    2020 Hyundai i30N

    More power, more responsiveness, and a sportier body kit; the 2020 Hyundai i30N is getting front of line to become your favorite hatchback to drive around the Horizon Festival.

    A 2.0 – liter, 4-cylinder turbo engine capable of producing 353 Nm of torque along with its brand-new 8-speed dual clutch transmission makes this car worthy of an invitation to the hot hatch party that takes place every day at the Festival.

    Not straying too far away from its five-door rivals, the i30N can hit a top speed of 250 kmh and reach 100 from nothing in 6.1 seconds.

    If not for all the fun a stock hatchback can bring, unlock this car for 20 PTS on the third week of Lunar New Year and see what kinds of sauce you can add with your own customization.

    2023 MG MG7

    Another one of MG’s staples makes a revamped comeback in the 2023 MG MG7. This new version of a classic comes with a design that puts together luxury and sportive performance.

    The new MG7 is geared with a 2.0-liter turbo engine capable of putting out 257 hp and producing 405 Nm of torque, catering to fans of speed; and packs it up inside a stylish outside design.

    The return of the MG should be celebrated along with the New Year, and we do not know a better way to do this than taking it to the track and scoring some fast times.

    What’s next

    We travel back to Across the Atlantic in European Automotive.

    New reward cars from the greatest car makers on the planet along with a brand-new Car Pack to drive and collect.

    Along with new props and badges, this new update will bring every class to Rally Adventure Rivals!

    Website: LINK

  • From Late Nights to Limelight: The Story of Go Mecha Ball

    From Late Nights to Limelight: The Story of Go Mecha Ball

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Discover the origins of Go Mecha Ball, a game born from late-night ideas during parental leave.

    A unique game where a rolling ball transforms into a powerful mecha, capturing the internet’s attention.

    From viral prototype to securing funding from Microsoft – a developer’s dream come true.

    GMB -screenshot

    Go Mecha Ball began with a critical look at classic top-down shooters during the reflective nights of my paternity leave. I questioned the traditional use of rolling merely for evasion. What if rolling could be offensive? What if an object, known for crashing into things, could also shoot? This line of thought led to the idea of a ball, an object synonymous with rolling and kinetic energy, transforming into a powerful mecha. This concept laid the foundation for a game that would uniquely blend action and strategy.

    GMB -attack

    I began developing this idea into a prototype, utilizing my new procedural animation system to ensure the transformation between ball and mecha was not just visually appealing but seamless – a crucial element of the game’s fun and engagement. The goal was to create something different: a game that was as enjoyable to watch as it was to play.

    GMB -ball launching

    After a brief pause due to parental cover and adjusting to a new job, I resumed tinkering with the prototype. To my surprise, it wasn’t long before Microsoft took notice of Go Mecha Ball. Their decision to support the project was transformative. It elevated my late-night prototype into a serious game development venture, bringing Go Mecha Ball closer to a wider audience.

    GMB -playing field

    Now, Go Mecha Ball is set to leave its mark in the gaming world. This game is a testament to the power of a good idea and what can be achieved when creativity meets opportunity. It’s more than just a game – it’s a journey from a simple yet innovative concept to an exhilarating adventure. Go Mecha Ball is ultimately a love letter to what I believe is most important in games: game feel.

    Try your hand at this new approach to kinetic movement today on Xbox!

    Go Mecha Ball
    Xbox Live
    Xbox Play Anywhere

    Go Mecha Ball

    Super Rare Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 90

    ★★★★★

    $19.99 $17.99

    PC Game Pass

    Xbox Game Pass

    Load up and roll out, in this twin stick shooter with roguelike progression! Blast your way through arcade-style levels, using pinball-style physics mixed with an arsenal of devastating weapons. Defeat waves of enemy bots, battle big bosses, and upgrade your mech between runs!

    Website: LINK

  • Next Week on Xbox: New Games for January 29 to February 2

    Next Week on Xbox: New Games for January 29 to February 2

    Reading Time: 8 minutes

    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!

    Brotato
    Xbox Live
    Xbox Play Anywhere

    Brotato

    Seaven Studio

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Brotato – January 30
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere

    Brotato is a top-down arena shooter roguelite where you play a potato wielding up to 6 weapons at a time to fight off hordes of aliens. Choose from a variety of traits and items to create unique builds and survive until help arrives.

    Teppo and The Secret Ancient City
    Xbox Live

    Teppo and The Secret Ancient City

    Totalconsole

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $7.99 $6.39

    Teppo and The Secret Ancient City – January 30

    An exciting adventure where players take on the role of explorer Teppo, searching for the legendary stone fortress hidden in the Amazon jungle. Meeting the mysterious Tanaca Wanax, the last chief of the unknown tribe of elected allies, Ugha Lulala, players will discover the incredible and fantastic history of a highly evolved ancient civilization, superior to that of the Mayas and the Incas.

    Graveyard Girls
    Xbox Live

    Graveyard Girls

    Penguin Pop Games LLC

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Graveyard Girls – January 31
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    A Halloween-themed visual novel about complicated grief and overcoming hardships. Collect Elle’s “scribbles” to learn about her struggles, befriend a mysterious girl, and talk about death and loss.

    Miniland Adventure
    Xbox Live

    Miniland Adventure

    RockGame S.A., Gameparic

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Miniland Adventure – January 31
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    Miniland Adventure is a game where you can do anything you want to! Of course, you will still need to eat something from time to time, but besides that, there are no restrictions! You start with a small patch of land, that with time you can expand by yourself with biome tiles which you receive every day. In no time, you will find yourself in a big and pretty house with a farm beside crafting new tools and exploring caves.

    NINJA KIDZ: TIME MASTERS
    Xbox Live

    NINJA KIDZ: TIME MASTERS

    Selecta Play

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Ninja Kidz: Time Masters – January 31
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    America’s most popular online ninja family’s first video game is here! Ninja Kidz Time Masters is a colorful action adventure for the whole family where you can play alone or together with friends. Rescue the three greatest martial arts masters kidnapped by Dr. Disaster.

    Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story
    Xbox Live

    Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story

    Riot Forge

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story – January 31
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    Dive headfirst into an immersive narrative set in the undiscovered reaches of the Freljord, where every snowy step brings you closer to the truth about Nunu and Willump’s past. Discover the unbreakable bond between boy and yeti as you traverse a land both beautiful and treacherous, making new allies (and enemies) on a journey of family, friendship, and magic.

    Speed Crew
    Xbox Live

    Speed Crew

    Wild Fields

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Speed Crew – January 31
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    Get ready for a high-octane, cooperative party game experience in Speed Crew! Assemble your team of 1-4 players and take on the role of an elite pit crew tasked with fixing cars and beating the clock to secure victory in this fun and chaotic adventure.

    Turret Rampage
    Xbox Live

    Turret Rampage

    Eastasiasoft Limited

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Turret Rampage – January 31
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    Defend humanity from subterranean monsters as the last standing turret! Turret Rampage is a shoot ’em up game with tower defense elements. You are a defensive turret, the only unit that stands between the remnants of humanity and the fierce underground invaders.

    Knights of Braveland
    Xbox Live

    Knights of Braveland

    Ellada Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $19.99 $17.99

    Xbox One X Enhanced

    Knights of Braveland – February 1
    Xbox One X Enhanced

    Knights of Braveland is a cooperative beat ’em up action game with a generated story. You will hack, slash, and smash your way to victory. And with your friends it is much more fun. Smash your way to victory solo or in a team up to 4 knights in this infinite replayable action RPG in Braveland universe.

    GINSHA
    Xbox Live

    GINSHA

    PolarityFlow, Adrian Zingg

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $17.99 $16.19

    Ginsha – February 2
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    An atmospheric pixel art action-adventure platformer with special gravity shield and dash mechanics. Explore huge interconnected planets, filled with secrets, loot, obstacles, different enemy types and epic boss fights. Level up, equip and customize your Clone, craft companion drones, and enjoy ever evolving possibilities as you proceed to save your species.

    Adrian's Tale
    Xbox Live

    Adrian’s Tale

    Badri Bebua

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Adrian’s Tale – February 2

    An action-adventure game where you control a little hero. You must improve your skills in order to move further through the plot, solve puzzles, fight enemies using your sword, as well as additional weapons that you can select in your inventory.

    Dr. Frank's Build a Boyfriend
    Xbox Live

    Dr. Frank’s Build a Boyfriend

    Ratalaika Games S.L.

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Dr. Frank’s Build-A-Boyfriend – February 2
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    Dominik seemed to be the perfect boyfriend: attentive, caring, and interested in Dr. Frank’s work. Three months into the rainbow-colored relationship, Dominik runs off with Dr. Frank’s lifelong research on resurrection to present at the annual prestigious Hindenberg University Conference. Not only is Dr. Frank going to one-up Dominik’s presentation by presenting the world’s first artificial life form, but Dr. Frank is going to make said life form the world’s hottest, most beautiful boyfriend. Dr. Frank’s Build-A-Boyfriend is a visual novel mixed with point-and-click adventure elements.

    Draw Rider Remake
    Xbox Live

    Draw Rider Remake

    17Studio LLC

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Draw Rider Remake – February 2

    Rewritten from the ground up to be bigger, better, and more beautiful in every way from its original. Classic 2D racing with fun physics, where your goal is to get to the finish line within the allotted time.

    Dreamland Solitaire
    Xbox Live

    Dreamland Solitaire

    ChiliDog Interactive

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $5.99

    Dreamland Solitaire – February 2

    Escape to a world of wonder as you enjoy a magical twist on classic Solitaire! Simply play one card up or one card down from the top card on your draw pile to clear cleverly designed puzzle boards. As you remove cards, you’ll slowly uncover hand-painted scenes of a gorgeous fantasy realm.

    Jujutsu Kaisen Cursed Clash Pre-Order
    Xbox Live

    Jujutsu Kaisen Cursed Clash Pre-Order

    Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc.

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $59.99

    Jujustu Kaisen: Cursed Clash – February 2
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    For the first time ever, the highly acclaimed series from Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump, “Jujutsu Kaisen,” is expanding into the domain of console games. Aim to become the strongest together by taking advantage of the characteristics of each technique, aiming for a joint attack that is triggered by combining attacks, and working together in harmony to assess the battle situation.

    Mighty Aphid 2
    Xbox Live

    Mighty Aphid 2

    Cascadia Games LLC

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $4.99

    Mighty Aphid 2 – February 2
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

    After a two-year absence, Mighty Aphid returns to battle Lady Bug and her evil horde once again. This time, the villainess has created her own Mighty warriors to take on the pint-sized hero. Run, shoot, swim, dash, and fly. Rescue the innocent. Fight mighty bosses. Earn powerful upgrades.

    Persona 3 Reload
    Xbox Live
    Xbox Play Anywhere

    Persona 3 Reload

    SEGA

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $69.99

    Persona 3 Reload – February 2
    Game Pass / Xbox Play Anywhere

    Step into the shoes of a transfer student thrust into an unexpected fate when entering the hour “hidden” between one day and the next. Awaken an incredible power and chase the mysteries of the Dark Hour, fight for your friends, and leave a mark on their memories forever. Persona 3 Reload is a captivating reimagining of the genre-defining RPG, reborn for the modern era.

    Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League
    Xbox Live

    Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League

    Warner Bros. Games

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 3

    ★★★★★

    $69.99

    Website: LINK

  • Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth Is Available Now!

    Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth Is Available Now!

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    [Preorder Bonus Content] Hero’s Booster & Special Job Bundle ■ Hero’s Booster Pack This pack allows you to increase your party members‘ level and job rank by 1. Includes:
    – Leveling Set (Small) x 1
    – Gearworks Crafting Set (Small) x 1
    – Job Leveling Set (Small) x 1 * These consumable items grant enough EXP to raise a character’s level by 1 and enough Job EXP to raise the rank of the corresponding job by 1.
    * Please note that these items only grant as much EXP as needed and are therefore of greatest benefit when characters are their furthest from a level or rank up.
    * These items cannot be used by characters who have reached their maximum level or job rank. ■ Special Job Set This set contains the special jobs of Linebacker and Tennis Ace. – Male Job: Linebacker will be available to all male party members.
    – Female Job: Tennis Ace will be available to all female party members. * To unlock the Linebacker job, Kasuga’s Confidence must be level 6 or higher.
    * To unlock the Tennis Ace job, Kasuga’s Charisma must be level 6 or higher. [Deluxe Edition Content]
    – Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth game
    – Master Vacation Bundle EPIC EMOTIONAL DRAMA
    Two larger-than-life heroes brought together by the hand of fate, or perhaps something more sinister… Ichiban Kasuga, an unstoppable underdog who’s no stranger to crawling up from rock bottom, and Kazuma Kiryu, a broken man facing down a battle of his last days of life. BEST-IN-CLASS RPG ACTION
    Experience one-of-a-kind combat with dynamic, fast-paced RPG battles where the battlefield becomes your weapon, and anything goes. Adapt your party’s skills to the situation with outlandish jobs and customizations to strategically subdue enemies with over-the-top moves. INFINITE ADVENTURE
    Live it up in Japan and explore all that Hawaii has to offer in an adventure so big it spans the Pacific. Unforgettable moments await at every step of the journey with a unique mix of quests and activities to enjoy at your leisure. This product includes the base game as well as additional content. Additional content can also be purchased separately, so please be careful not to make overlapping purchases. By using this product, you agree to this EULA: https://games.sega.com/eula/

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Xbox App [2401.1001.9.0]

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Xbox App [2401.1001.9.0]

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

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

    New Versions of PC Gaming prerelease products:

    Xbox App version: 2401.1001.9.0

    • Available: 5:00 p.m. PT – January 25th, 2024    

    Current versions of Windows Gaming prerelease products:

    Game Bar version: 6.123.11012.0

    • Released: 5:00 p.m. PT – November 3rd, 2023

    Xbox App Bug Fixes:

    • Fixed an issue that caused certain parts of a bundle not appearing correctly when trying to install a title
    • Fixed an issue where “last played” not updating properly on game pages
    • Fixed an issue where earned achievements are sometimes not properly appearing in notifications
    • Fixed an issue where “What’s your next game?” improperly shows the results once you complete the quiz
    • Fixed various UI and font issues

    How to Get Xbox Insider Support

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

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

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

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

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

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Delta (2402.240122-2000)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Delta (2402.240122-2000)

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

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

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

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details:

    • OS Version: XB_FLT_2402ZN\25398.3443.240122-2000
    • Available: 4 p.m. PT – January 25, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – January 26, 2024

    New Features and Experiences

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

    Settings – Access Restrictions

    We have updated the Access restrictions page in Settings by moving the existing options under a new menu for Access restrictions options. Additionally, we have added new options to allow use of the Edge web browser, setting Home console, and to delete profiles on sign out. To view these new options, navigate to Settings > System > Access restrictions.

    Fixes Included

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

    Installation

    • Various fixes to further improve unexpected issues when installing or updating games and apps.

    System

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

    Known Issues

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

    Audio

    • We have received reports of users experiencing intermittent issues with audio across the dashboard, games, and apps. If you have experienced issues, be sure you have the latest firmware updates for your TV and other equipment. If you’re unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance.
      • Note: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware updates, please submit feedback via Report a Problem immediately with the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”. Be sure to include as much information as possible:
        • When did the issue start?
        • Did you lose audio just in the game/app or system audio as well?
        • Does changing the audio format resolve the issue? If yes, what was the format before and after?
        • Does rebooting resolve the issue?
        • What does your setup include? Equipment, layout, etc.
        • And any additional information you can provide to reproduce the problem.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to their network as expected on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.

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

    What Happens to Your Feedback

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

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

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

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

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Beta (2402.240122-2000)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Beta (2402.240122-2000)

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

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

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

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details:

    • OS Version: XB_FLT_2402ZN\25398.3443.240122-2000
    • Available: 2 p.m. PT – January 25, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – January 26, 2024

    New Features and Experiences

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

    Settings – Access Restrictions

    We have updated the Access restrictions page in Settings by moving the existing options under a new menu for Access restrictions options. Additionally, we have added new options to allow use of the Edge web browser, setting Home console, and to delete profiles on sign out. To view these new options, navigate to Settings > System > Access restrictions.

    Fixes Included

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

    Installation

    • Various fixes to further improve unexpected issues when installing or updating games and apps.

    System

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

    Known Issues

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

    Audio

    • We have received reports of users experiencing intermittent issues with audio across the dashboard, games, and apps. If you have experienced issues, be sure you have the latest firmware updates for your TV and other equipment. If you’re unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance.
      • Note: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware updates, please submit feedback via Report a Problem immediately with the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”. Be sure to include as much information as possible:
        • When did the issue start?
        • Did you lose audio just in the game/app or system audio as well?
        • Does changing the audio format resolve the issue? If yes, what was the format before and after?
        • Does rebooting resolve the issue?
        • What does your setup include? Equipment, layout, etc.
        • And any additional information you can provide to reproduce the problem.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to their network as expected on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.

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

    What Happens to Your Feedback

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

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

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

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

    Website: LINK

  • Free Play Days – WWE 2k23, Phantom Abyss and MX vs ATV Legends

    Free Play Days – WWE 2k23, Phantom Abyss and MX vs ATV Legends

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    Experience the thrill of wrestling, navigate through treacherous temples, and race to the finish line with Free Play Days! WWE 2k23, Phantom Abyss and MX vs ATV Legends are available this weekend for Xbox Game Pass Core and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members to play from Thursday January 25 at 12:01 a.m. PDT until Sunday, January 28 at 11:59 p.m. PDT.  

    Game Pass Core will give players access to our advanced multiplayer network, a select collection of over 25 games to play with friends around the world, and exclusive member deals! Read more about Game Pass Core at Xbox Wire. 

    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 Game Pass Core or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership. To download on console, click on the Subscriptions tab in the Xbox Store and navigate down to 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 achievements earned during the event! Please note that discounts, percentages, and title availability may vary by title and region.

    Free Play Days (Game Pass Core or Game Pass Ultimate Required)

    WWE 2K23 for Xbox Series X|S
    Xbox Live

    WWE 2K23 for Xbox Series X|S

    2K

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 278

    ★★★★★

    WWE 2k23 
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
    Become a WWE Legend in WWE 2K23 during Xbox’s Free Play weekend! As the highest rated game in WWE 2K franchise history, the ultimate wrestling simulation takes you behind the scenes and into the action to experience firsthand what it’s like to compete on the biggest stages in sports entertainment. 

    WWE 2K23 features a bevy of engaging and immersive modes; ascend from a promising prospect to a WWE Superstar in MyRISE, recreate the greatest matches of John Cena’s career in 2K Showcase, call the shots as a general manager in MyGM, take complete control of your favorite WWE Superstars in Universe mode, and collect WWE Superstars and Legends to assemble a dream team in MyFACTION. 

    All Xbox Live Gold and Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can take advantage of even stronger savings starting January 9 and ending January 30 with a special 50% discount on the Season Pass, featuring five DLC packs with over 20 Superstars and Legends! Enjoy the latest iteration of the WWE 2K franchise like never before and explore all of WWE 2K23’s endlessly fun modes—so you can prepare for the arrival of WWE 2K24. 

    In case you didn’t hear, WWE 2K24 has officially been announced and you can pre-order it today! Secure your copy of the WWE 2K24 and receive a digital-only version of WWE 2K23, so you can keep the party going even after the Xbox Free Play weekend is over! 

    Phantom Abyss
    Xbox Live

    Phantom Abyss

    Devolver Digital

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 161

    ★★★★★

    $24.99 $18.74

    Xbox Game Pass

    Free Trial

    Phantom Abyss 
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
    Phantom Abyss is a massive asynchronous multiplayer game that casts players into procedurally generated temples and tasks them with retrieving the sacred relics hidden within deadly chambers. Intrepid adventurers will dodge scores of hidden traps, leap treacherous chasms, and flee relentless guardians through branching paths until one of the relics are claimed or the devices of death overwhelm them. Be warned, you only get one attempt at each temple and failure means you will never see that temple again.  

    Make Way
    Xbox Live

    Make Way

    Secret Mode

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 11

    ★★★★★

    $14.99

    MX vs ATV Legends 
    Optimized for Xbox Series X|S, Smart Delivery
    Race your way to victory on bikes, ATVs and UTVs in MX vs ATV Legends! Featuring massive new open environments, plus a career mode that lets you experience all the risks and rewards of becoming a world-famous professional rider. Become an off-road racing legend in your own right! Your time is now! 

    Don’t miss out on these exciting Free Play Days for Xbox Game Pass Core 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.  

    Don’t miss out on these exciting Free Play Days for Xbox Game Pass Core 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.

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha Skip-Ahead (2408.240122-2000)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha Skip-Ahead (2408.240122-2000)

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

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

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

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details:

    • OS Version: RS_XBOX_DEV_FLIGHT\26039.1001.240122-2000
    • Available: 2 p.m. PT – January 24, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – January 25, 2024

    New Features and Experiences

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

    My Games & Apps – Improved Filtering and Sorting

    We’ve added some new filters and sorts to My Games & Apps to help you find exactly what you’re looking for! You can now filter games by Accessibility Options, Supported Languages, and Technical Capabilities. Additionally, subscription tabs have been updated to sort by recently added making it easier to see what’s new. Of course, you can always change the sorting if you prefer something else. Just head to My Games & Apps then Full library where you can find all the new filtering and sorting options.

    Settings – Access Restrictions

    We have updated the Access restrictions page in Settings by moving the existing options under a new menu for Access restrictions options. Additionally, we have added new options to allow use of the Edge web browser, setting Home console, and to delete profiles on sign out. To view these new options, navigate to Settings > System > Access restrictions.

    Fixes Included

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

    System

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

    Known Issues

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

    Audio

    • We have received reports of users experiencing intermittent issues with audio across the dashboard, games, and apps. If you have experienced issues, be sure you have the latest firmware updates for your TV and other equipment. If you’re unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance.
      • Note: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware updates, please submit feedback via Report a Problem immediately with the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”. Be sure to include as much information as possible:
        • When did the issue start?
        • Did you lose audio just in the game/app or system audio as well?
        • Does changing the audio format resolve the issue? If yes, what was the format before and after?
        • Does rebooting resolve the issue?
        • What does your setup include? Equipment, layout, etc.
        • And any additional information you can provide to reproduce the problem.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to their network as expected on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.

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

    What Happens to Your Feedback

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

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

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

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

    Website: LINK

  • An Action-Packed Cyberpunk Adventure: Anomaly Agent

    An Action-Packed Cyberpunk Adventure: Anomaly Agent

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Embark on a cyberpunk journey with Anomaly Agent, a side-scrolling action-adventure game with a captivating pixel-art design. Manage Agent 70 and fight against anomalies in numerous levels filled with merging enemies. Enjoy the thrill of a mysterious time-bending story.

    We are thrilled to announce that our first game Anomaly Agent is available now!

    AA screenshot

    Fight with Merging Enemies!

    In the adventure of Agent 70, an Anomaly Agent affiliated with corporation T-Day, you will encounter a diverse array of enemies. Utilize both stylish close combat techniques and weapons to defeat these foes. Combos, weapons and any means necessary to beat those guys up!

    However, be cautious, as these clone enemies can merge and shape-shift, becoming more powerful!

    AA screenshot

    Earn some coins from defeated enemies and your surroundings to make permanent upgrades to Agent 70’s weapons. Enhance the range, damage and extend the clip of your most frequently used weapons. Thus, you may improve the weapon that brings you the most fun during combat.

    AA screenshot

    In the adventure of Agent 70, we aimed to provide you with a fast-paced and diverse action. Get ready to overcome numerous platform traps and enemies surrounding you! Embrace the challenge!

    Platforming along the Rooftops

    Jumping from rooftop to rooftop in a cyberpunk-themed metropolis. We think that it’s an elegant way of platforming! Anomaly Agent aims to provide a dynamic gameplay experience with not only action-packed combat sequences but variable platform elements. Use Agent 70’s agility and boomerang to overcome those obstacles!

    AA screenshot

    Whether it’s skyscraper rooftops, narrow corridors or the top of a metro, the platform elements in Anomaly Agent will consistently present a sweet challenge, spiced with a bit of puzzle-solving.

    Always Ready for a Small Talk

    Anomaly Agent weaves an entertaining and mysterious cyberpunk narrative, introducing encounters not only with adversaries but also with numerous characters you can engage in conversations with.

    AA screenshot

    Agent 70 is always ready for a quick chat. Interact with various characters, engage them in interesting and humorous dialogues. Just beware, clones can sometimes crack bad jokes.

    Anomaly Agent doesn’t just offer fast-paced action and platforming elements but also injects fun dialogues into the mix. Throughout the game’s story, you’ll meet different characters, clone enemies, and bosses. The choices you make in dialogues can assist you when upgrading Agent 70 permanently.

    As the Phew Phew Games team, we are extremely excited to bring this game to you. We hope that while playing this game, crafted with much enjoyment, you can also have a great time and spend entertaining hours!

    Anomaly Agent
    Xbox Live

    Anomaly Agent

    NAISU

    ☆☆☆☆☆ 1

    ★★★★★

    $14.99 $12.74

    Become Agent 70 and stop the anomalies threatening to destroy the balance of the world! With memorable characters, unique Anomaly Bosses, a story full of twists, and smooth gameplay, Anomaly Agent is an adventure to be savored. We hope you enjoy your journey!

    Website: LINK

  • Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha (2402.240122-2000)

    Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha (2402.240122-2000)

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

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

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

    Details can be found below!

    Xbox Insider Release Notes

    System Update Details:

    • OS Version: XB_FLT_2402ZN\25398.3443.240122-2000
    • Available: 2 p.m. PT – January 24, 2024
    • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – January 25, 2024

    New Features and Experiences

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

    Settings – Access Restrictions

    We have updated the Access restrictions page in Settings by moving the existing options under a new menu for Access restrictions options. Additionally, we have added new options to allow use of the Edge web browser, setting Home console, and to delete profiles on sign out. To view these new options, navigate to Settings > System > Access restrictions.

    Fixes Included

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

    Installation

    • Various fixes to further improve unexpected issues when installing or updating games and apps.

    System

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

    Known Issues

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

    Audio

    • We have received reports of users experiencing intermittent issues with audio across the dashboard, games, and apps. If you have experienced issues, be sure you have the latest firmware updates for your TV and other equipment. If you’re unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance.
      • Note: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware updates, please submit feedback via Report a Problem immediately with the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”. Be sure to include as much information as possible:
        • When did the issue start?
        • Did you lose audio just in the game/app or system audio as well?
        • Does changing the audio format resolve the issue? If yes, what was the format before and after?
        • Does rebooting resolve the issue?
        • What does your setup include? Equipment, layout, etc.
        • And any additional information you can provide to reproduce the problem.

    Networking

    • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to their network as expected on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.

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

    What Happens to Your Feedback

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

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

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

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

    Website: LINK

  • Become a Professional Alpinist in Climber: Sky is the Limit

    Become a Professional Alpinist in Climber: Sky is the Limit

    Reading Time: 6 minutes

    Hello, soon-to-be climber.

    I’m Mateusz, PR Manager at Art Games Studio, here to tell you about the mountain adventure for the cold winter nights. We’ve just released Climber: Sky is the Limit on the Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, allowing you to become an alpinist while sitting comfortably in front of your console!

    CSITL climber pov

    Real-Life Experience

    Creating a realistic mountain climbing simulation game requires immense alpinistic knowledge, which our team didn’t have, so in order to create the immersive experience we teamed up with a member of the Polish National Team in Mountaineering – Paweł Michalski.

    His involvement in 19 expeditions in the Himalayas and Karakoram and several dozen expeditions to lower peaks on all continents, helped a ton when recreating those peaks in-game.

    Paweł helped us to introduce all the necessary equipment which is used during the expedition, explain their parameters, and, describe all practical aspects and difficulties of the high mountain environment.

    CSITL mountain exterior

    Preparing the Expedition

    As in real life the successful expedition in Climber: Sky is the Limit begins with the right preparations. In order to survive in the high mountains, you’ll need the proper gear. Depending on the funds you have available you can acquire items of various qualities. Each piece of equipment improves your chances in different ways:

    Clothing protects you from harsh weather conditions (increases your low-temperature resistance), allows for more freedom of movement (increases your stamina), and utilizes lighter materials (lowers the overall weight of your equipment)

    Specialized equipment such as ice axes, ropes, and leaders will help you traverse diverse terrain and clear slippery terrains, vertical ice walls, crevasses, and so on. However, watch out not to overburden yourself, take only the necessary things if you don’t want to gas yourself out in the middle of the expedition.

    During preparations, you cannot forget about nutrition. Energy bars, lyophilized soups, and others regenerate your Stamina, Mental Condition, and Food parameters. Warm meals will also regenerate your body temperature, but take into consideration that they must be prepared in the camp.

    Pack all of the needed things into your backpack, watch out for your balance and you’re ready to go!

    CSITL menu

    Hitting the Trail

    It doesn’t matter which one of the five eight-thousanders available in the game (Mount Everest, K2, Manaslu, Gasherbrum I, Cho Oyu) you choose, you’ll start your expedition in the base camp. Then slowly work your way to the top, while facing many challenges and harsh weather conditions.

    The key to success is a combination of careful planning and learning what equipment to use and when. You’ll probably not succeed during your first attempt, but contrary to the real-life mountain climbing you’ll always be able to try again with your new-gained knowledge.

    CSITL screenshot

    Staying Healthy

    If you want to succeed and reach the summit you must watch out for your health parameters:

    • Stamina – physical strength of the climber, indicates your ability to walk, run, jump, climb, and move objects.
    • Mental Health – the physical health of your climber and his willingness to venture forward. Taking risky actions, such as sliding down the frozen slopes, or overcoming crevasses will quickly deplete it.
    • Temperature – Indicates your climber’s body temperature, which is dependent on outside weather conditions and what you’re wearing. Adjusting clothes to the weather conditions is vital because freezing out means a brutal end to your expedition…
    • Food – You have to eat to survive. If you don’t, your Stamina will drop to zero extremely quickly, making you unable to move forward. Not every food is equal, some are more filling than others and can give you a boost to your Stamina and Morale, or heat you up.
    CSITL screenshoty

    Reaching the Summit

    If you manage to overcome the challenges of the mountain and balance your health parameters, you’ll surely reach the top of the mountain, finishing your sponsor contract gaining more funds for your next expedition, and increasing your climber prestige!

    CSITL victory stance

    That’s not all that will await you in the game. For example, Climber: Sky is the Limit support and also the leaderboards for seasoned climbers, allow you to compare your summit times with other alpinists across the world!

    See you at the top!

    Climber: Sky is the Limit
    Xbox Live

    Climber: Sky is the Limit

    Art Games Studio S.A.

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    $12.49

    Climber: Sky is the Limit is a mountain walking simulator game where you are a climber who takes on the most difficult and dangerous peaks on Earth. To succeed you need to plan your journey carefully by preparing appropriate equipment, choosing a suitable trail, facing extreme weather conditions, and surviving. Conquer your limits, overcome your fear, and reach the sky. REACH THE SUMMIT
    Each expedition is different, and the journey to the top is a great challenge. Conquer your fear, face your limits, and reach the summit. In order to do that: traverse dangerous trails using specialized equipment such as ice axes, lifelines, or carabiners. FACE DANGERS
    During the journey, you will face diverse obstacles like blizzards, chasms, vertical walls, steep traverses, icy slopes, and crevasses. The key to success is to plan your next steps wisely and use the appropriate equipment at the right time. PLAN YOUR EXPEDITION
    Before setting off, decide which trail is best to the top taking into account weather conditions and the weather windows. Sometimes it’s better to take a chance and choose a more difficult route, but thanks to this you will be able to reach the summit before a snowstorm. SURVIVE
    The key to survival is to have appropriate tools when you need them. Each piece of equipment has its weight but also makes your next step harder. Ensure you have enough food to recover your strength, or you have a warm jacket and sleeping bag to warm up after a full-day climb.
    Good timing also plays a great role during the expedition. In the high mountains, where weather changes quickly and night falls very fast, plan ahead to set up camp in the right place that gives you a chance to recover before the next challenging day. KEY FEATURES
    -Scale some of the world’s most famous peaks like Everest, K2, Broad Peak, and others.
    -Face a variety of environmental challenges from chasms, vertical walls, steep traverses, icy slopes, treacherous crevasses, and more.
    -Use specialized equipment to traverse dangerous trails and slopes like ice axes, carabiners, and lifelines.
    -Contend with and plan around harsh weather conditions like blizzards, extreme wind, and plummeting temperatures.
    -Keep up your health and strength by balancing stamina, morale, temperature, and hunger.
    -Plan every point of your journey, packing only the necessities, choosing your path (will you take the safer route or the risky one?), and preparing for each day’s trek and weather conditions.
    -Vie for contracts from sponsors for a chance to buy extra equipment and fund future excursions, but be advised they may include incredible challenges.
    -An immersive experience that has been created to be as realistic as possible through consulting expert mountaineers…

    Website: LINK

  • Dynamic and Vibrant Shooter Project Downfall is Coming to Xbox Consoles

    Dynamic and Vibrant Shooter Project Downfall is Coming to Xbox Consoles

    Reading Time: 5 minutes

    Hey there, Xbox fans!

    It’s so good to see you in this New Year of 2024! I hope you spent the holiday season in a good atmosphere and your inner batteries are fully charged. If so, buckle up and get ready, because the ride through great, new launches is about to begin. I’m super happy to briefly present to you very interesting project that is going to be released on Xbox consoles next month. Wanna hear one-sentence pitch? Here it goes: A stylized, cyberpunk shooter for fans of Hotline Miami and “John Wick”. This is – Project Downfall!

    PD gunfire

    Rise and Fall

    Welcome to a dystopian future, traveler. You’ve just arrived at the Crimson Tide, a symbol of unity between the European Union and the emerging superpower, The Novorussian Federation.

    You must know that in this world political parties are a thing of the past, having been replaced by aggressive corporations. Citizens vote with their wallets, and drugs they take enforce obedience.

    This is the story of one, ordinary Lakk district resident whose routine day suddenly turns into a complicated game of power and influence in this rotten world. In the reality where corporate influences blurs the lines between what’s right and wrong…

    Project Downfall, made by MGP Studios and Solid9 Studio is a unique and dynamic game that successfully blends shooting and action with bits of strategy and tactical thinking, offering players an exciting journey through a dystopian world. You must be prepared to immerse yourself in this hostile world, where your combat skills will be put to the ultimate test. Project Downfall offers a diverse array of weapons and cool skills (eg. superkicks, slammers, adrenaline slides and more!), and each of them is unique, allowing players to customize their playstyle and approach each mission with creativity. Whether you prefer long-range precision, melee combat or tactical tricks with use of gadgets, surely there is something for you to have fun.

    PD screenshot

    However, it must be said that an equally important aspect of the game, and in fact, one of its main features, is the emphasis on non-linear progression. It may seem to be quite a strange design decision, in a project of this caliber, but if you were expecting just a simple, dynamic (let’s say) boomer-shooter, you are mistaken. Depending on the decisions you make in the game, and other factors such as the mental state of the main character, you can experience completely different gameplay sequences as well as entire, previously hidden levels. And all of them can lead you to new story elements and, as a result, to different endings. Thus, each approach to the game can offer a new experience, and you can still discover something fresh in your next playthroughs. Cool!

    Dirty Neon Signs and Their Flashing Lights

    Project Downfall isn’t just awesome gameplay; it’s a visual journey into surrealism, combining the rough aesthetics of such works as “Falling Down”with Michael Douglas, with the frenetic action of the ‘Hardcore Henry” and “John Wick” movies. Imagine this: the neon-soaked streets of “Crimson Tide” pulsing with cyberpunk energy, where every alley hides secrets and every corner creates chaos from Hotline Miami in a moment’s notice.

    Trippy, cyberpunk visuals work in tandem with a dynamic and electrifying soundtrack which adapts to what’s going on-screen and gives a kick and propels you to play. Each track has been carefully crafted to enhance the immersive journey through Crimson Tide, making the game not only a visual and interactive feast, but also a symphony of electronic vibrations that will stay with you even after you put down the controller.

    PD screenshot

    Release Date and Availability

    Project Downfall is set to conquer the Xbox console  world on February 2, 2024. Save the date in your calendar, but also don’t you worry, I will be happy to remind you about it in the next article, which will include a short interview with the game developers! Stop by our social media if you wanna know more about the project and see you soon.

    PD FPS POV
    Project Downfall
    Xbox Live

    Project Downfall

    ©RedDeerGames

    ☆☆☆☆☆

    ★★★★★

    Find yourself in a future city full of gangs, mafias, and other shady people. Become a merciless assassin who works during the day, and gets into a killing frenzy at night. Hop in the car, select a destination, and explore every corner of Crimson Tide. If you want to feel an adrenaline rush, you can explore the city on foot but watch your back and don’t ask too many questions. EVERYTHING CAN BE A WEAPON!
    Search your surroundings for anything that looks deadly and use it to protect yourself. Throw bottles, knives, or even guns at the enemies. Nothing around you? Take some pills and breach doors to stun opponents, or just disarm them by kicking their faces. They will be pleased to drop a weapon for you then. You should definitely find and lick a frog – you will love it. PLAN YOUR ATTACK
    It’s your decision how to enter combat and how to end it. Find your first victim, and go with the flow. Try every possibility and find the best way to get the highest score. Kick an enemy while sliding to pick his weapon mid-air and land a headshot to defeat him. Creativity is the key to success. CREATE YOUR OWN STORY
    There are 12 available endings waiting for you to be discovered. Each one takes around 4 hours for hardcore players to complete. The path you choose will never be completely the same next time. Also, check and search for collectibles that are hidden all over the city.

    Website: LINK

  • ID@Xbox Presents: Indie Selects

    ID@Xbox Presents: Indie Selects

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    ID@Xbox has been helping bring amazing indie games to Xbox gamers for a decade now, and we’ve always strived to find new ways to highlight our favorites. We’ve sponsored our own dedicated showcases, we’ve featured rad games and creators in our E3 Briefings and Xbox Games Showcases, we have an awesome ID@Xbox community team, and we run monthly ID@Xbox theme sales.

    To build on that legacy we’re excited to announce that we’ve found a new way to bring attention to some of the top indie games on Xbox through our new “Indie Selects” program, which launches today!  

    Indie Selects includes a curated, dedicated collection in the Xbox Store featuring indie games chosen by the ID@Xbox team – along with support on our social and community channels, and even right here on the Xbox Wire. In the Games section of the Xbox dash, we now have a permanent hub that showcases indie games we are passionate about. A new collection, featuring various channels and rotating themes, will go live every Wednesday. 

    The first channel, which we’re calling simply “Featured Indies,” includes recent indie games that the ID@Xbox team recommends. These are games we’ve played and liked, and we feel positive indie game fans will enjoy too. Note that we’re not including titles that are in Game Pass here even if they’re fantastic, simply because they’re featured regularly in the Game Pass hub. 

    Our second channel features a rotating selection of games that fit with a weekly theme. Looking for “Games to Play With Your Cat,” or “Games that Need a Laugh Track,” or “Games for Evil Villains”? You’ll find them here. We’re working on a bunch of different, fun ideas for themes right now to roll out over the coming months, and we’ll always take suggestions for new themes (or games to include in existing themes) from players through our social channels.  

    Other channels will include themes to highlight games from around the world, games from new creators and voices, our ID@Xbox theme sales, and select games available for pre-order. Finally, we now have a channel to feature upcoming indie games that can be added to a gamer’s wishlist – one of our indie devs’ most highly requested features. 

    And now the best part: once a month – the last week of the month – we will showcase our choices for six titles to be designated our ID@Xbox “Indie Selects” of the month. The whole ID@Xbox team will vote to select their favorites and these are the six games that we feel confident you’ll love. These are games that we want to put our stamp of approval on. Not only will the Indie Selects be featured in a special collection for that week, we’ll also release a monthly highlight reel on our social channels, and publish an Xbox Wire article to dig more deeply into which games were selected, and why we like them. In addition, the developers will receive a digital award featuring the Indie Selects logo that they can show off on their own channels (example above). 

    So why are we doing this? The short answer: we love games made by independent developers, and we want more people to discover them, buy them, and play them! We know there are a lot of games out there right now, and it can be difficult for unique titles to find an audience in crowded marketplaces. With a dedicated, permanent, curated collection in the  Xbox Store, we’ll be able to bring more attention to games that we feel are particularly special – everything from current favorites, to older gems, to games from new creators from around the world. 

    Make sure to check out the collection, updated each Wednesday, with our Indie Selects being featured the last Wednesday of each month. You can find the collection on the Xbox dash by going to the store and then selecting Games from the menu on the left. From the whole ID team, thanks, as always, for supporting indie games!  

    Website: LINK