Xbox Series S
Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Xbox Series S.
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Games Inbox: Is Final Fantasy 7 still the most popular JRPG?
Readers discuss the perceived lack of hype for the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy, questioning if the original game's age hinders its popularity as a JRPG. Other topics include reader interest in Take-Two's post-Grand Theft Auto 6 plans, the potential for a live-action Zelda movie, and the future of digital distribution versus physical media.
Fallout 76 is Getting “Dark Content” Soon, Says Creative Director
Fallout 76 Creative Director Jonathan Rush announced that the game will be receiving "dark content" soon, with more details to be revealed shortly. The team is also working on enhancements for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S versions, aiming for a 60 FPS target and visual improvements. The article also touches on the ongoing discussion about implementing cross-platform multiplayer, which presents significant technical challenges.
Wondering why GTA 6 is a code in a box? Take-Two CEO says it’s because gaming is now ‘well over 90%…
Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick explained the decision to release Grand Theft Auto 6 physical editions with a digital code instead of a disc, citing that the company's business is over 90% digital. He also defended the pricing of the Standard and Ultimate Editions, noting exceptional pre-order sales. Grand Theft Auto 6 is set to launch on November 19 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Series S.
Ghost Recon Wildlands Gets A Surprise New Mission As Ubisoft Celebrates 25 Years Of Ghost Recon
Ubisoft is celebrating 25 years of the Ghost Recon franchise with a significant free update for Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Wildlands. The update includes a new story mission called 'Last Rites,' current-generation visual enhancements with 4K/60FPS support on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, and the return of the Predator crossover event. Additionally, Ubisoft has launched a Ghost Recon Insider Program to gather community feedback for future titles.
Ghost Recon Wildlands finally gets a 4K 60fps mode for current-gen consoles and PC, a time of day feature, new difficulty options, and more as Ubisoft aims to increase 'player freedom'
Ubisoft is releasing a free update for Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Wildlands, adding a 4K resolution and 60fps mode for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The update also introduces "Ghost Parameters" for increased player freedom, allowing customization of gameplay elements like reloading, weapon slots, friendly fire, HUD, item highlighting, and throwable previews. Additionally, players can now control time of day and weather, and difficulty settings have been revamped into presets for a more personalized experience. A new DLC featuring a story mission and antagonist La Llorona is also available.
GTA 5 actor says 'I must've auditioned for over 60 characters' for GTA 6, but Rockstar ghosted him — 'I feel like someone who's in love with a girl and then she just dumped me'
Grand Theft Auto 5 actor Robert Bogue revealed he auditioned for over 60 roles in Grand Theft Auto 6 but was never contacted by Rockstar Games. Bogue expressed disappointment, comparing the experience to being "dumped" by someone he loved, and questioned if Rockstar has a policy against reusing actors. Grand Theft Auto 6 is set to release on November 19 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S.
We could finally be getting the next GTA 6 trailer as Rockstar announces a special 'extended look' that will…
Rockstar Games has announced a special 'extended look' at Grand Theft Auto 6, set to premiere on Netflix on August 27 and later on YouTube. This event is anticipated to reveal new gameplay or a trailer, coinciding with the game's official launch on November 19 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Series S.
Famitsu sales (7/27/26 – 8/2/26) – another big week for Splatoon Raiders
The latest Japanese hardware sales data from Famitsu shows the Nintendo Switch 2 leading with 30,606 units sold, followed by the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition. Splatoon Raiders topped the software charts with 73,542 units sold, contributing to its strong overall performance. Other notable software includes Rhythm Heaven Groove and Village in the Shade.
Think Before You Push In Sokogem On Xbox
Sokogem is a minimalist puzzle game available on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC. Developed by Marcus Fernandes and published by Misc.261, the game challenges players to push colorful gems to their designated treasure chests with careful planning. It is priced at £4.19 on the Xbox Store.
Gears of War: E-Day Beta’s Early Access Starts, Studio Confirms Known Technical Issues
The Coalition has confirmed known technical issues and performance dips during the early access beta for Gears of War: E-Day. Players on PC are advised to update graphics drivers, while Xbox Series S users may experience hitches in Horde Siege mode. The beta runs until August 17th, with the full game releasing on October 6th for PC and Xbox Series X/S.
Gears of War: E-Day Open Beta dates, times, rewards and content
The open beta for Gears of War: E-Day will be split into two phases, with early access for pre-orders and Game Pass Ultimate/PC Game Pass members running from August 6th to August 10th. The open beta for everyone else will take place from August 13th to August 17th. The beta will feature Horde and Versus modes, with specific rewards available for players who reach certain milestones.
Xbox’s next round of price increases have landed, and they’re worse than we thought
Xbox has implemented price increases for its Series S and Series X consoles, effective August 1st, with steeper hikes in Australia than initially anticipated. These increases are attributed to a significant rise in console storage and memory component costs, driven partly by the AI boom redirecting fabrication efforts. Despite the price hikes, Microsoft continues to incur losses on each console sold.
Kynseed Finally Plants Its Roots On Console As Fable Veterans Bring Their Acclaimed Life Sim To Consoles
The acclaimed life simulation game Kynseed, developed by PixelCount Studios, has launched on consoles including Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. The game, which features generational gameplay and a blend of farming, business management, and combat, includes years of major updates from its PC release. PixelCount Studios, founded by veterans of the Fable series, aims to capture a similar spirit of creativity and humor in Kynseed.
Xbox's FanFest world tour is still going ahead, for some reason, even after Microsoft fired the guy who created it
Despite recent layoffs, Microsoft's Xbox division is proceeding with its global FanFest tour, an event created by Chris Munson, who was among those let go. The tour includes stops in Cologne, Tokyo, London, Mexico City, Sydney, Toronto, and Seattle, with specific dates announced for Gamescom and Tokyo Game Show. This continuation of the fan event comes amidst broader restructuring and significant price increases for Xbox consoles in Europe.
EA Sports FC 27 hands-on first look - a more beautiful game
EA Sports FC 27 is set to introduce significant improvements over its predecessor, including a new social hub called The Grounds and revamped gameplay mechanics. The Grounds offers a customizable space inspired by global football culture, while gameplay enhancements focus on more realistic interceptions, improved player AI, and a refined crossing system. Career Mode also sees major updates with dynamic player ratings and a more realistic transfer system, alongside new unexpected events and press conferences.
Games Inbox: Will the Xbox reset work for Microsoft?
Readers express concern over recent price increases for Xbox consoles and PC GPUs, questioning Microsoft's strategy and the future of console gaming. Discussions also touch on Nintendo's Direct presentation approach and the ongoing debate about digital versus physical game sales, with a focus on potential EU intervention regarding Sony's digital store practices.
Halo: Campaign Evolved Celebrates Positive Critical Reception With New Accolades Trailer
Halo: Campaign Evolved has received positive critical reception, with a new trailer highlighting its visuals and praise from reviewers. While some minor concerns like lack of PvP and occasional framerate issues were noted, the remake is considered a worthy modernization of the classic. The game is available on Xbox Series X/S, PC, and PlayStation 5, marking the series' debut on the latter.
Xbox Hardware Gets Steeply Dearer in Europe and the UK — Up to €200 or £170 More
Microsoft has significantly increased the prices of its Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X consoles in Europe and the UK. The 512GB Xbox Series S now costs €499.99, a 43% increase, while the Xbox Series X sees price hikes up to €200 or £170. These adjustments are attributed to rising hardware costs, with some models seeing over a 30% price jump.
No Matter Which You Choose, Graphics Cards Are About To Get A Lot More Expensive
Graphics card prices are set to increase significantly, with both Nvidia and AMD implementing hikes of 20-30% and at least 10% respectively. This rise is attributed to increased demand and pricing from memory suppliers like Samsung. The price increases are expected to impact consumers as partners are unlikely to absorb the costs, and console manufacturers like Microsoft, Nintendo, and Sony have already adjusted or are planning to adjust their own hardware prices.
Gaming hardware costs have gone up 16% just in 2026, says US analyst, and Samsung says the AI bubble behind it all is…
US analyst Mat Piscatella reports that the average selling price of new gaming hardware in the US increased by 16% from January to June 2026, reaching $525. This trend is attributed to an AI data center-fueled chip and RAM shortage, which Samsung expects to worsen through 2027 and potentially until 2028. This shortage has already led to significant price hikes on consoles like the Xbox Series S and X, and is projected to affect the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, potentially raising its price to $500.
