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Fake Windows Support website offers 'cumulative update' for version 24H2 but delivers password-stealing malware that can avoid anti-virus detection
A sophisticated phishing scam is distributing password-stealing malware disguised as a 'cumulative update' for Windows Update version 24H2. The fake update, offered through a fraudulent Microsoft support website, can evade antivirus detection due to its obfuscated JavaScript within an Electron shell. Cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes has updated its antivirus to detect this threat and advises users to be wary of unofficial download sources.
Game Pass Is Too Expensive And It Will Change, Xbox CEO Says
Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma has acknowledged that Xbox Game Pass has become too expensive and stated that changes are coming to improve its value proposition. While no immediate changes are expected, Sharma is exploring a more flexible system and potential bundle offerings with companies like Netflix. These discussions follow a significant price increase for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate in October 2025.
"I couldn't protect it" Pete Hines says he left Microsoft-owned Bethesda because he didn't want to watch it be "damaged and broken apart and frankly mistreated, abused"
Pete Hines, former head of publishing at Bethesda, has elaborated on his departure, stating he felt powerless to protect the company from being "damaged and broken apart" by its owners, implied to be Microsoft. He felt his mental health was suffering due to his inability to perform his job effectively and protect the team and the company's efficient operations.
GTA maker Rockstar has until tomorrow to pay hackers or they’ll release stolen info
Rockstar Games has confirmed a limited data breach affecting third-party analytics software, with hackers ShinyHunters demanding payment to prevent the release of accessed company information. While Rockstar claims no critical data was compromised, the incident follows previous hacks and could potentially impact future plans or cause delays for Grand Theft Auto 6.
Fable Social Media Account Reiterates Fall 2026 Release Window Amid Rumors of an Internal Delay to Avoid GTA 6
Amid rumors of an internal delay, the official Fable social media account has reiterated the game's fall 2026 release window. This statement aims to counter speculation that the Microsoft-published title might be pushed into 2027, potentially to avoid competing with Grand Theft Auto 6.
This week in PC games: sci-fi shooter Pragmata, 2.5D platformer Replaced, and the most wishlisted game on Steam compete with illuminated manuscripts
This week in PC games features a variety of upcoming titles including the sci-fi shooter Pragmata and the 2.5D platformer Replaced. Other notable releases and demos include the survival game Oceaneers, the espionage RPG Moves of the Diamond Hand, and the pirate-themed Windrose. The article also highlights unique management games like Sintopia and Scriptorium: Master of Manuscripts.
Xbox co-creator "vastly more excited" about Steam than Project Helix because Valve is "relentlessly…
Original Xbox designer Seamus Blackley expressed more excitement for Valve's and Nintendo's future projects than Microsoft's upcoming console, codenamed Project Helix. Blackley praised Valve for its focus on games and Nintendo for its consistently interesting hardware designs, even citing the Wii U as a 'cool' failure.
Dune: Awakening to get self-hosted servers, plus they're splitting PvE and PvP
Funcom is implementing major changes to Dune: Awakening, including the introduction of self-hosted servers and a split between PvE and PvP experiences. The developers are making PvP more optional due to over 80% of players exclusively engaging with PvE content, disabling PvP zones in Hagga Basin and offering separate PvE and PvP instances.
Reported Physint Casting Call Looks for a Villain on a Hijacked Bus
Kojima Productions is reportedly beginning casting for its upcoming game, Physint, with roles including a villain described as "Mads Mikkelsen in Hannibal but with flair." Several actors, including Charlee Fraser, Don Lee, and Minami Hamabe, are already confirmed for the project. Motion capture is scheduled to begin in June, with Hideo Kojima estimating the game will take another five to six years to complete and is likely a PlayStation 6 title.
Rockstar Games affected by data breach, "limited amount of non-material information" accessed
Rockstar Games has confirmed it was affected by a data breach where a limited amount of non-material information was accessed via a third-party platform. The developer stated this incident has no impact on its organization or players. The breach reportedly could include financial records, player data, and contracts, with the hacking group issuing demands for its release.
Ex-Bethesda Exec Pete Hines Explains Why He Left, And He Didn't Mince Words
Former Bethesda executive Pete Hines explained his decision to retire after over 24 years, citing a realization that he could no longer effectively lead the studio or protect its culture. He expressed disappointment in how Bethesda was "damaged and broken apart" and "mistreated," particularly after Microsoft's acquisition of ZeniMax Media. Hines also mentioned that delays to Starfield, which he wanted to see released before departing, extended his tenure.
New Metro Sequel Reportedly Set for Reveal at Microsoft Xbox Show This Week, After Major Gameplay Leak Over the Weekend
A new installment in the Metro series is reportedly scheduled for an announcement during an upcoming Microsoft Xbox showcase. This follows a significant gameplay leak that occurred over the weekend.
Call of Duty kan försvinna från Game Pass dag 1, spekuleras det
Rumors suggest Microsoft is considering not releasing the next Call of Duty title on Game Pass on its launch day due to concerns that the subscription service cannibalizes sales. This speculation follows a lukewarm reception and player drop for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 and a recent price increase for Game Pass Ultimate.
Fable Reboot Could Be Delayed To 2027 Amid Concern About GTA 6 - Report
A report suggests that Microsoft's upcoming Fable reboot may be internally delayed to 2027, potentially to avoid launching near Grand Theft Auto 6. While developer Playground Games is reportedly still aiming for a fall release, concerns about the proximity to Grand Theft Auto 6's November 19 launch could push Fable to 2027. The RPG is confirmed for PC and PlayStation 5.
Metro 2039 Finally Emerges With First Look Set For April 16
Microsoft announced an Xbox livestream dedicated to Metro 2039, set to reveal the first gameplay footage of the post-apocalyptic first-person shooter. The game is being developed by 4A Games and published by Deep Silver.
Gaming Community Divided Over Xbox and Activision Job Cuts
The gaming community is divided over recent layoffs at Xbox and Activision, sparking debates about industry awareness versus personal engagement with games. This discourse highlights a growing tension between viewing games as corporate products and appreciating the human effort behind them, especially in the context of industry consolidation.
Metro 2039 is the Next Game in the Series – Rumor
A rumor suggests the next game in the Metro franchise will be titled Metro 2039 and is expected to be revealed during a Microsoft ID@Xbox showcase on April 16th. While 4A Games has been silent, insider NateTheHate has corroborated the reveal date and platform. The game is expected to take place three years after Metro Exodus.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Launches in October – Rumor
Rumors suggest that Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 is slated for an October release, potentially avoiding a direct clash with Grand Theft Auto 6. This follows the poorly received Modern Warfare 3, with reports indicating a follow-up is in development. Microsoft is reportedly aiming to stagger releases for its other titles like Halo and Gears of War to avoid competing with Rockstar's highly anticipated game.
Fable “Internally Delayed,” Could Launch in December to Avoid GTA 6 – Rumor
Playground Games' Fable has reportedly been internally delayed to December to avoid a direct conflict with the November release of Grand Theft Auto 6. While Xbox Game Studios head Craig Duncan expressed confidence in their own game's timing, reports suggest Microsoft is strategically positioning releases to maximize opportunity before Rockstar's major title. An official announcement may come during the Xbox Games Showcase on June 7th.
Former Bethesda Executive Says Studio Isn’t Part of Anything “Authentic”, “Genuine” Anymore
Former Bethesda executive Pete Hines stated that under Microsoft's ownership, the studio has lost its sense of authenticity and genuineness. Hines expressed feeling powerless to properly manage Bethesda and protect its development culture after the acquisition. He also mentioned internal complaints about Call of Duty remaining multiplatform while Bethesda's games became Xbox console exclusives, though Microsoft has since shifted away from strict exclusivity.
