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Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Xbox.
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Morning Previews
The Forza Horizon 6 preview highlights its most explorable adventure yet, featuring collectibles, seamless races, and open-world design. The game is set to release on Xbox platforms.
No Man's Sky Xeno Arena Update Wants You to Catch 'em All
Hello Games has released the Xeno Arena update for No Man's Sky, introducing turn-based creature battles and a focus on collecting and training creatures. Players can test their creatures against others in simulated combat, with the update also bringing balance tweaks and quality-of-life improvements. The game is available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
DAYZ UPDATE 1.29 DELIVERS PERFORMANCE BOOST, TERRAIN UPGRADES & NEW GEAR
Bohemia Interactive has released DayZ Update 1.29 for PC, Xbox, and PlayStation, focusing on significant performance enhancements and terrain upgrades. The update includes improved server stability, a 400% performance boost in stress tests, updated firearm sounds, and new winter-themed gear for the DayZ Frostline expansion. A native version for Xbox Series X|S is also now available.
PUBG Update 41.1 Adds Xeno Point PvE Mode, Stellar Blade Crossover and aespa Return | Invision Game Community
PUBG BATTLEGROUNDS Update 41.1 introduces the new Xeno Point PvE roguelite mode, a crossover event with Stellar Blade featuring protagonist EVE, and the return of the aespa collaboration. The update also includes gameplay enhancements like destructible terrain on Erangel and new strategic options for players on PC and consoles.
Xbox Achievements Are Getting A Visual Overhaul And Other Welcome Changes
Microsoft is introducing a visual overhaul and new features to Xbox Achievements, starting with Xbox Insiders. These changes include updated icons and animations for Achievement notifications, customizable pop-up colors, and separate graphics for 'Rare' Achievements. Players will also gain the ability to hide games from their public Achievement history while still accumulating Gamerscore, and highlight games where they've achieved 100% completion. Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma stated these updates are a response to fan feedback and part of a broader plan for future improvements.
Halo: Campaign Evolved Release Date Leaked
A leak from the source Grunt.Api suggests that Halo: Campaign Evolved, a remake of the original Halo game, may release on July 23rd or 28th. An official announcement is expected during the upcoming Xbox Showcase. The source has a history of accurately leaking Halo-related content.
PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS Update 41.1 Adds New Xeno Point Mode, Stellar Blade Crossover, and aespa Return
KRAFTON has released Update 41.1 for PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS, introducing a new co-op PvE roguelite mode called Xeno Point with an alien threat. The update also features crossover content from the action game Stellar Blade, including protagonist EVE, and brings back in-game items from the K-pop group aespa.
The Popularity of Competitive Shooters on Xbox
Competitive shooters remain highly popular on Xbox due to their skill-based gameplay, robust online infrastructure, and active communities. Consistent developer support through updates and new content, alongside the role of content creators and community events, ensures long-term engagement. The accessibility of these games through digital marketplaces like Eneba further contributes to their widespread appeal within the broader online economy.
Drop Duchy descends onto PS5 and Switch this month
Sleepy Mill Studio and The Arcade Crew announced that the block-dropping roguelite Drop Duchy will launch for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch on April 21st. The Complete Edition includes all previously released DLC. The game combines roguelite deck building with Tetris-like mechanics in a medieval setting.
Halo: Campaign Evolved Release Date Seemingly Leaked By Dataminer In Cryptic Math Problem
A dataminer has seemingly leaked the release date for Halo: Campaign Evolved through a series of cryptic math problems, suggesting an early access launch on July 23 and an official release on July 28. The article also touches on accusations of misconduct against Halo Studios figures and the game's development in Unreal Engine 5, with a mention of it being the first Halo title on PlayStation.
Xbox Controllers Have Been Shipping Without Batteries For Months, But Microsoft Is Finally Compensating People
Microsoft has acknowledged that some Xbox controllers were shipped without batteries since December 2025 and is now offering a free rechargeable battery and USB-C cable as compensation. This issue affected a limited number of newer Xbox wireless and Xbox Design Lab controllers. Microsoft stated that future controllers will include batteries and that they offer various charging options to provide players with choices.
Halo: Campaign Evolved Rated MA 15+ in Australia
Microsoft is bringing the Halo franchise to PlayStation consoles, including the PlayStation 5, as part of a new business strategy. This move aims to leverage the large PlayStation install base due to declining Xbox console sales. The decision was announced by the Halo Studios Community Director and confirmed on the PlayStation Blog.
Morning Consolidation
PlayStation is launching The Playerbase initiative to connect fans with PlayStation Studios games. Additionally, Wuthering Waves has confirmed its upcoming release on Xbox platforms.
Harvest Cafe
Harvest Cafe is a single-player island adventure developed by World of Poly Games, blending farming, exploration, fishing, cooking, and café management. Players can grow crops, raise animals, restore the island, decorate their café, and serve meals. The game is set to release on PC and Xbox.
Multi-Class Weapon Pack DLC Arrives 14 April for theHunter: Call of the Wild
Avalanche Studios Group announced the Multi-Class Weapon Pack DLC for theHunter: Call of the Wild, launching on April 14, 2026, for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. The pack introduces four new specialized weapons designed for various hunting scenarios, including the Richardsson .500, Cassidy Combination Gun, ALIS Precision Shot .25-06, and Jonerson .17HMR. This DLC aims to provide players with versatile options for tackling different game classes and hunting distances.
Absolum Confirmed for Switch 2 Physical Release as Full Cartridge
Dotemu and Guard Crush Games announced that Absolum will receive a physical release for the Nintendo Switch 2, available as a full cartridge for $49.99 in Q3 2026. The beat 'em up game features arcade-style combat, roguelite elements, and an original score by Gareth Coker, Mick Gordon, and Yuka Kitamura. Absolum has already sold over 500,000 units across its current platforms.
Spica Adventure, the iconic platformer from TAITO, is about to debut worldwide for the first time!
ININ Games and TAITO Corporation are releasing Parasol Superstars, a digital bundle featuring Spica Adventure and Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III, on April 14, 2026. This marks the first worldwide console release for Spica Adventure, originally a Japan-only arcade and mobile title. The bundle will be available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox, with a 20% launch discount during its first week.
Block-Dropping Meets Strategy Hybrid Drop Duchy Launches on PlayStation & Nintendo Switch This Month with New Complete Edition
The Arcade Crew announced that the hybrid block-dropping strategy game Drop Duchy will launch on PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch on April 21 with its Complete Edition. This version includes previously released DLC and offers a blend of deck building, puzzle, and roguelite gameplay. The game has already achieved over 100,000 sales on PC and Xbox.
Book Your Trip to the Colony Today: Pre-Order for Gothic 1 Remake Begins!
Pre-orders for the Gothic 1 Remake are now available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, with a release date set for June 5th, 2026. The PC version includes the official soundtrack by Kai Rosenkranz for €49.99, while console versions priced at €59.99 will include the original Gothic Classic as a bonus.
Towerborne Review | TheXboxHub
Towerborne, developed by Stoic and published by Xbox Game Studios, has officially launched after a period in Game Preview. This side-scrolling action RPG features a hand-drawn art style, deep combat mechanics with multiple classes, and robust multiplayer options. While the lack of voice acting is a drawback, the game offers engaging gameplay and a flexible character progression system.
