Xbox Series X
Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Xbox Series X.
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Grand Theft Auto 6 Features Around 600,000 Animations Just for NPCs
Rockstar Games has revealed that Grand Theft Auto 6 features approximately 600,000 animations dedicated solely to non-player characters (NPCs). These animations will dynamically adapt based on player actions, environmental factors, and the time of day, aiming to create a more lifelike world than seen in Red Dead Redemption 2. The game is set to release on November 19th for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.
Rayman Legends Retold is Getting a PS5-Exclusive Astro Bot Suit
Ubisoft has announced an exclusive Astro Bot-themed suit for PlayStation 5 players in the upcoming Rayman Legends Retold, available for free on day one. The suit is a callback to Rayman's appearance in Team Asobi's Astro Bot. The article also touches on the game's smooth platforming and high PC specs for 4K/60 FPS.
GTA 6’s Total Landmass is Nearly Equal to GTA 4, GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2 Combined
Rockstar Games has revealed that Grand Theft Auto 6's total landmass is comparable to the combined playable areas of Grand Theft Auto 4, Grand Theft Auto 5, and Red Dead Redemption 2. The developer also highlighted the significantly increased number of detailed interiors and interactive environments within the game world.
Grand Theft Auto 6 Features a Longer Day/Night Cycle Because GTA 5’s Timings “Felt Too Fast”
Rockstar Games has revealed that Grand Theft Auto 6 will feature a longer day/night cycle compared to Grand Theft Auto 5, as the studio found the previous timings felt too fast for the increased fidelity of the new game's worlds. This change aims to enhance NPC believability and player immersion in the modern-day Vice City.
Exodus Receives 40-Minute Gameplay That Dives Deep Into Paladin and Immortal Choices
Archetype Entertainment has released a 40-minute gameplay video for their upcoming RPG, Exodus, showcasing a mission involving difficult choices between a 'Paladin' and 'Immortal' path. The video also features an updated look for the male protagonist, Jun, with the developer expected to reveal the female version and character creation details soon. Exodus is slated for release on April 7th, 2027, for Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC.
29 Percent of All US Gamers Are Planning to Buy Grand Theft Auto 6, Says Analyst
Analyst Mat Piscatella predicts that nearly 30 percent of US gamers plan to purchase Grand Theft Auto 6, calling it a significant cultural and commercial moment for the industry. The anticipation for the title, the first new entry in the franchise since 2013, is expected to drive sales of software, hardware, and gaming subscriptions. Rockstar Games is also focusing on enhancing the in-game world's fidelity and NPC reactions for the upcoming release.
The Wolf Among Us Remastered's story holds up, even as its extras underwhelm
The Wolf Among Us Remastered successfully revives the acclaimed narrative adventure game, with its compelling story and characters holding up remarkably well over a decade later. While the updated visuals enhance the gritty aesthetic, the new extras like Noir Mode and playable deleted scenes are underwhelming due to their execution.
No Man’s Sky 7.1 “Forsaken” update announced, patch notes
Hello Games has announced version 7.1, "Forsaken," for No Man's Sky, introducing new traders, mementos, and a spooky corvette. The update also brings quality-of-life improvements such as a minimal HUD mode, seamless warping between star systems, and various bug fixes and optimizations for multiple platforms.
Magical PS5 Life Sim Gets Trailer, Sets Release Date
Chucklefish and Robotality have announced that the magical life simulation game Witchbrook will launch on January 28, 2027, for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S, with a PC release on Steam and the Microsoft Store. The game allows players to attend Witchbrook College, study magic, build relationships, and customize their character and home.
Xbox hardware revenue decreased 14% year-over-year during Microsoft's (MSFT) Q1 FY27
Microsoft's Q1 FY27 earnings report indicates a 14% year-over-year decrease in Xbox hardware revenue and a 2% decline in content and services revenue. The drop in content and services is attributed to lower Xbox Game Pass and third-party content sales, partially offset by first-party titles. The report also notes a price increase for Xbox consoles in August 2026.
Epic Games further doubles down on gen-AI tools for Fortnite, Unreal Engine 6 and more: "Our engineers are no longer writing the bulk of the code"
Epic Games is significantly increasing its use of generative AI across its products, including Fortnite and Unreal Engine 6. Executive vice president Marcus Wassmer stated that engineers are now guiding AI tools rather than writing the bulk of the code, aiming for faster development and fewer bugs. The company is unconcerned about skepticism surrounding AI, prioritizing speed over caution.
GTA 6’s Jason & Lucia Cast Get Advice From Beloved Trevor, Michael, & Franklin Voice Actors
Voice actors from previous Grand Theft Auto titles, including Ned Luke, Shawn Fonteno, Steven Ogg, and Young Maylay, offered advice to the actors portraying Jason and Lucia in Grand Theft Auto VI. They encouraged the new leads to "have fun," "get ready," and "just listen to Rockstar," emphasizing the long-lasting impact of iconic roles.
Legendary Singer Thought GTA 6 Is a TV Show Despite Being Part of Its Soundtrack
Legendary singer Cliff Richard was unaware that Grand Theft Auto VI is a video game, believing it to be a TV game show despite having one of his songs featured in its soundtrack and promotional material. The inclusion of his 1976 track "Devil Woman" in the GTA VI: An Extended Look presentation led to a significant surge in streams and Spotify listeners for the song. Grand Theft Auto VI is scheduled for release on November 19, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Alien: Isolation 2 devs commit to a physical edition: "Staying true to the analogue nature of Alien is one of our pillars"
Developers at Creative Assembly have confirmed that Alien: Isolation 2 will receive a physical edition, emphasizing its commitment to the analogue nature of the Alien franchise. The sequel will feature a more intelligent Xenomorph and expanded level design, including new exterior hunting grounds. The announcement comes amidst Sony's plans to end new PlayStation disc production in 2028, raising concerns about future physical releases.
GTA 6 Online Could Be Released In Early 2027, Bank Says
Bank of America predicts that Grand Theft Auto 6's online component could launch in early 2027, potentially generating significant revenue for Take-Two Interactive. The bank maintains a 'buy' rating on Take-Two's stock, citing the strong potential of a new Grand Theft Auto Online. Grand Theft Auto 6 is set to release on November 19 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Intense PS5 Shooter Game Is Out Today on PlayStation Store
Perfect Random's roguelike FPS, Sulfur, has launched on the PlayStation Store for PS4 and PS5, marking its full 1.0 release after an Early Access period on PC. The game combines fast-paced shooting with RPG elements and loot collection, featuring over 60 firearms and hundreds of items. It is also available on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch, with plans for future content updates and potential DLC.
Alien: Isolation 2 will have a physical edition to stay true to the franchise
Sega and The Creative Assembly have announced that Alien: Isolation 2 will receive a physical edition, citing the franchise's analogue nature as a core pillar. This decision addresses concerns about the future of physical media, especially following PlayStation's announcement to cease disc production in 2028. The sequel is slated for release in 2027 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
PS5 Finally Gets SSX Spiritual Successor Fans Have Been Begging For
HYPERyuki: Snowboard Syndicate, a spiritual successor to the SSX franchise, has been announced for an early 2027 release on Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. Developed by Wabisabi Design, the game aims to capture the Y2K extreme sports aesthetic with arcade-style snowboarding, over-the-top tricks, and multiplayer modes.
Conan Exiles decides that it’s going to bring its Enhanced edition to consoles after all
Funcom has announced that Conan Exiles Enhanced, featuring significant visual upgrades, will be released for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S in early 2027, with crossplay support. Existing owners of PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions will receive free upgrades. The studio also confirmed that the Legacy of the Giant-Kings Part Three update is scheduled for November 10th.
Nearly 1 in 3 gamers plan to buy GTA 6 in the US, analyst confirms: "A rare cultural and commercial moment"
An analyst from Circana confirms that 29% of US gamers plan to purchase Grand Theft Auto 6, making it the most anticipated release in their tracking history. The game is expected to drive significant sales not only for software but also for consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, as well as accessories and subscriptions.
