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Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Xbox.
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Microsoft Gaming CEO Claims Game Pass Has “Become Too Expensive”
Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma reportedly stated in an internal memo that Game Pass has become too expensive for players and needs a better value equation. Sharma plans to evolve the service into a more flexible system over time. There are also rumors that Call of Duty might be removed from Game Pass this year.
PRAGMATA Review | TheXboxHub
PRAGMATA is a new IP from Capcom that offers a heartfelt sci-fi story centered on the relationship between astronaut Hugh and a mysterious android girl named Diana. The game features third-person exploration, light platforming, and a unique real-time hacking combat system. Despite some minor criticisms, the game is praised for its engaging narrative, character development, and visually impressive environments.
The legendary RPG series that inspired The Witcher is finally coming to Xbox and PlayStation
The classic RPG series Gothic, known for its reactive worlds and inspiring titles like The Witcher 3, is coming to modern Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Gothic Classic releases in July 2026, followed by Gothic 2 Complete Classic and Gothic 3 Classic in September and November 2026, respectively. Pre-ordering the upcoming Gothic 1 Remake, developed by Alkimia Interactive, grants immediate access to the original Gothic Classic.
Next-Gen Xbox Project Helix Will Benefit From Hardware And Software Teams Working Together, Exec Says
Xbox boss Matty Booty stated that the upcoming Project Helix device benefits from Microsoft's integrated hardware and software teams working together from the early stages of development. This synergy is intended to create a more unified experience for players and developers, breaking down barriers between PC and console gaming. Alpha versions of the system are expected to ship to developers in 2027, with a custom AMD SoC powering significant advancements in ray tracing and efficiency.
Cozy Open-World Adventure Outbound Delayed to Mid-May
The cozy open-world adventure game Outbound has been delayed from April 23rd to May 14th due to an issue that could impact player enjoyment. Developer Square Glade Games is working to ensure a more polished, bug-free experience. The free demo will remain available until May 12th.
Dragonkin: The Banished Review | TheXboxHub
Dragonkin: The Banished is an action RPG hack 'n' slash developed by Eko Software and published by NACON, available on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC. The game features a compelling story, detailed enemy designs, and a deep customization system through its ancestral grid. Despite some initial technical issues with frame stutters and pop-in, the gameplay loop of combat and loot collection is highly satisfying, making it a strong entry point for both new and veteran players of the genre.
Crimson Desert "on track to overtake Starfield's total lifetime copies sold by the end of the year," analyst says, as PS5 sales "not fantastic for a port of the biggest Bethesda RPG in a decade"
An analyst suggests that Crimson Desert is on track to outsell Starfield's lifetime copies by the end of the year, citing lukewarm PlayStation 5 sales for Starfield. While Starfield's PS5 port has issues, its sales are noted as faster than other recent Xbox ports, though its overall performance is attributed to a formula that may no longer resonate with players and the impact of Game Pass.
2023 PS5 Game Being Delisted From PS Store, Last Chance to Buy
The PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 adventure game Star Trek: Resurgence is being delisted from digital storefronts due to an expired license. Publisher Bruner House announced the removal, with the game already gone from the Xbox store and soon to be unavailable on the PlayStation Store and Steam. Physical copies remain an option for interested players.
Is Fortnite Losing Its Magic? Community Speaks Out
Fortnite players are expressing a sentiment that the game is losing its original magic, with the community feeling the game has shifted significantly from its battle royale roots. While Epic Games has introduced new modes and content to appeal to a broad audience, some players feel the game's identity has become scattered. The article suggests that Epic Games needs to reconnect with the core elements that made Fortnite initially successful to recapture player engagement.
As Fable Is Rumored To Be Delayed, Let's Read Too Much Into This Social Media Change
The Fable reboot's social media accounts have stopped mentioning a 2026 release date, fueling speculation of a delay following a report that the game was internally pushed back. While unconfirmed, this change occurred after a report suggested the game might slip to 2027 to avoid launching near Grand Theft Auto 6. Developers are reportedly concerned about releasing games close to Grand Theft Auto 6's November 19 launch.
Infinity Nikki and Love and Deepspace dev: "AI lacks the soul to replace human creators"
Infold Games CTO Ji Zhang stated that AI cannot replace human creators in game development due to its lack of 'soul'. He also addressed concerns about rising RAM prices, believing the cost increase to be temporary. Zhang detailed the different technologies used for their games, Infinity Nikki and Love and Deepspace, noting their use of Unity and Unreal Engine respectively, with in-house tools for optimization.
Starfield PS5 Sales Estimate
An analyst suggests Starfield has experienced lukewarm sales on PlayStation 5, questioning Microsoft's strategy of releasing its games on PS5 after their initial launch on Xbox and PC. This approach is being scrutinized in light of the game's performance.
Newzoo: More than half of PC revenue comes from games outside the Top 20
Newzoo data indicates that games outside the Top 20 are increasingly significant in the PC market, capturing 56% of revenue and 45% of playtime by 2025. While console spending remains concentrated on top titles, lower-ranked games are also seeing growth on platforms like PlayStation. Genres like action RPGs and survival games are performing well, with titles such as Elden Ring and Cyberpunk 2077 contributing to this trend.
Star Trek: Resurgence Won't Live Long And Prosper, Being Delisted In Under Three Years
Star Trek: Resurgence is being delisted from digital storefronts like Steam and Xbox due to licensing rights issues. While still available on the Epic Games Store, Nintendo eShop, and PlayStation Store, the game will no longer be offered for sale. Players who have already purchased the title can still access it, and physical copies remain an option.
Xbox Is Reportedly Having "Very Big Discussions" About Exclusivity
Microsoft is reportedly engaged in significant internal discussions regarding the exclusivity of its Xbox titles. While the company has recently expanded its reach by bringing games like Forza Horizon to PlayStation, there is ongoing debate about whether to prioritize being an ecosystem or a publishing company. This could potentially lead to certain single-player games being locked to the Xbox platform in the future, though major franchises like Call of Duty are unlikely to become exclusive.
Elementallis Launches April 28 on PC, Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox
Elementallis, a retro-inspired action-adventure game from Ankae Games, is scheduled to launch on April 28, 2026. It will be available on PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox consoles. The game features elemental combat, puzzles, exploration across eight biomes, and a narrative focused on restoring balance to the world.
Games Inbox: What is the best multiplayer video game in 2026?
Readers discuss their current multiplayer game experiences, with some finding recent titles like Marathon and Arc Raiders too demanding. Topics include the overwhelming nature of Marvel Rivals, interest in Rainbow Six Siege and Warframe, and speculation about the future of PlayStation exclusives with the upcoming PlayStation 6.
Starfield Director Says Fallout, The Elder Scrolls Were Also Divisive in Their Early Days
Bethesda director Todd Howard stated that Starfield, like early entries in The Elder Scrolls and Fallout series, has been divisive among players. He explained that the studio aims to explore different creative directions, drawing parallels to the evolution of the Fallout franchise after Bethesda acquired it. Howard also discussed the narrative intent behind Starfield's 'Unity' ending and its connection to New Game+.
Starfield Sales On PS5 Don’t Look Great
Starfield sold 140,000 copies on PlayStation 5 in its first week, generating $7.7 million. While decent for a port, these figures are considered underwhelming compared to its Xbox launch and other recent Xbox titles released on PlayStation. The game has sold nearly 5 million copies across all platforms, with PC sales at approximately 3.7 million and Xbox sales around 1 million, the latter likely influenced by Game Pass availability.
Conan Exiles introduces character transfers in today’s patch, promises console server merges in May
Funcom has released update R15 for Conan Exiles, introducing character transfers that allow players to move their characters between servers while preserving all progression and items. The update also includes backend overhauls for server management. Additionally, Funcom announced plans to merge select console servers in May, with advance notifications to be provided to players before any closures or forced migrations.