Xbox
Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Xbox.
Latest coverage
Finding the Success Recipe for the Games Launching in 2026
This analysis discusses key elements for game success in 2026, emphasizing targeting specific audiences over universal appeal and avoiding excessive monetization. It highlights the importance of innovative yet familiar mechanics, unique visuals, careful music selection, and learning from both successful indie titles and established games like Baldur's Gate and Stardew Valley. The article also predicts increased AI involvement, personalization, genre mashups, and a greater need for social media discovery.
Intel must also hate waiting for shaders to compile as it begins bundling pre-compiled code into Arc drivers for faster…
Intel is introducing a new service that bundles pre-compiled shaders into its graphics drivers for Arc GPUs, aiming to reduce game loading times by up to 50% and minimize stuttering. This initiative, part of Microsoft's Advanced Shader Delivery system, will also be supported by Nvidia for GeForce RTX users later this year and is already being utilized by the Xbox ROG Ally.
Remedy releases final major update for underperforming shooter FBC: Firebreak
Remedy Entertainment has released the final major content update for its underperforming shooter FBC: Firebreak, which launched in June 2025. Despite commercial disappointment, the studio confirmed the game will remain online and playable for years to come, with a permanent price drop to $19.99 for the base game. The 'Open House' update introduces new arenas, gameplay improvements, and a 'Friend's Pass' feature.
Sony Reportedly Issuing Automatic Refunds For Additional Content Bought For Short-Lived Live Service, Highguard - IGN
Sony is automatically refunding players for additional content purchased for the short-lived live service game Highguard, which shut down on March 12. The game, developed by Wildlight and backed by Tencent, experienced a rapid decline in player numbers after its January launch. This follows a similar pattern to another PlayStation flop, Concord, which also shut down shortly after release.
Xbox Rolls Out Console Feature Major Nelson Proposed Years Ago
Xbox is rolling out several new console features to select Xbox Insiders, including the ability to create up to 10 Groups, a custom UI color palette, visible profile badges, and a per-game customizable Quick Resume feature. Larry "Major Nelson" Hryb, who proposed the Quick Resume customization years ago, expressed his approval of the update.
Shinobi: Art Of Vengeance DLC Is A Sega Villain Crossover You Didn't Expect
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is releasing the "Sega Villains Stage" DLC on April 3, featuring Joe Musashi battling iconic Sega characters like Death Adder, Dr. Eggman, and Goro Majima. The expansion includes new stages, modes, and customization options, and will be available as a standalone purchase or with the Digital Deluxe Edition. A free update will also add Hardcore Mode and other gameplay adjustments.
Highguard Players Get Refunds As Dev Seemingly Shuts Down For Good
The free-to-play shooter Highguard has ceased operations, with players on PlayStation 5 reporting that Sony is issuing refunds for in-game microtransaction purchases. Developer Wildlight's online presence has vanished, and the company previously laid off most of its staff. Tencent was among the funders who reportedly pulled support after the game's launch, with the game failing to generate sufficient revenue.
War Thunder’s Ninth Wave Update Goes Live Today with Server Downtime
Gaijin Entertainment has released the major 'Ninth Wave' update for War Thunder today, March 17th, requiring server downtime starting at 08:00 GMT. This update is described as one of the largest content drops for the game, with details available on dev blogs. The update is rolling out simultaneously across PC, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms.
This PS2 Transformers Game Still Looks Xbox-Quality 22 Years Later
A 2004 PlayStation 2 game, Transformers, has gone viral for its impressive graphics, which some users claim rival those of the original Xbox. The discovery highlights the technical capabilities of the PS2 and the ongoing interest in retro gaming, with players rediscovering older titles that pushed hardware boundaries.
Starfield is landing on PS5 and it could be the definitive experience
Starfield is set to launch on PlayStation 5 on April 8, 2026, with a free update called Free Lanes and a premium DLC questline titled Terran Armada. The Free Lanes update introduces significant new features, including the ability to travel freely between planets in real-time and new ship customization options. The Terran Armada DLC adds a new faction and space combat encounters. The PlayStation 5 version will also leverage the console's hardware, including optimizations for PlayStation 5 Pro.
Subnautica 2 might finally be entering early access in May
Subnautica 2 is slated for an early access release on PC and Xbox in May, according to a report from IGN. This follows a legal ruling that former Unknown Worlds Entertainment CEO Ted Gill should be rehired, amidst ongoing litigation between Krafton and the studio concerning performance goals and payouts tied to the game's development.
Square Enix Publisher Sale 2026 Live Through March 30
Square Enix is holding a publisher sale with discounts on over 200 titles across multiple digital storefronts, including Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo platforms. The sale runs through March 30, with specific dates varying by platform. Hosts Matthew Mercer and Ben Starr are featured in promotional content for the event.
Sea of Thieves details Season 19 features and several anniversary events starting March 19
Sea of Thieves is launching Season 19: Fights & Festivals on March 19, introducing updates to Hourglass PvP combat, new cosmetic rewards, and a returning Last Ship Standing mode. The game will also celebrate its eighth anniversary with a free play weekend for Xbox players, login bonuses, and various community events throughout March.
Subnautica 2 Will Finally Enter Early Access in May Following Year of Delays and Legal Drama - IGN
Subnautica 2 is set to enter Early Access in May on Xbox and PC, as confirmed by developer Unknown Worlds and publisher Krafton. This announcement follows a period of legal drama between the two companies regarding alleged contract breaches and bonus payouts, which has now seen a judge order Krafton to pay a significant bonus and reinstate a key executive. The game's development has progressed with new story chapters, creatures, and biomes, and the team is preparing for an open development journey with the community.
Manairons Review | TheXboxHub
Manairons is a visually inventive 3D platformer with charming characters and unique mechanics like musical puzzles, but its gameplay is hampered by dated combat, an uncooperative camera, and imprecise platforming. Despite its flaws, the game showcases the artistic talent of indie developer 3Cat, suggesting potential for future projects.
Aery - The King’s Messenger Review | TheXboxHub
Aery – The King’s Messenger is the best entry in the Aery series, significantly improving upon its predecessors by refining the story, music, and level design. While the core gameplay remains similar, the game minimizes previous franchise flaws and offers a more cohesive and enjoyable experience, with minimal bugs and a fresh soundtrack.
Game Pass for Busy Adults: Is It Worth It? (A Time-Value Analysis)
This analysis examines the value proposition of Microsoft's Game Pass for busy adults, considering its tiered pricing and the time constraints of players. It suggests a 'rotation strategy' of subscribing only during months with stacked releases and canceling during slower periods, rather than maintaining a year-round subscription. The article also highlights the ownership problem, where games can leave the service, and advises users to honestly assess their gaming habits and budget before committing.
This controller lets you swap between Xbox and PlayStation thumbstick layouts without a toolkit, and it only costs $50
The Nyxi Flexi controller offers a modular design for PC and Nintendo Switch players at an affordable $50 price point, allowing users to swap between symmetrical and offset thumbstick layouts toollessly. While praised for its comfortable size, RGB lighting, and Hall sensor thumbsticks, the controller lacks extensive customization options and a dedicated PC app, relying on a mobile app for fine-tuning.
Starfield Announced For PlayStation In April, New DLC Also Revealed, Massive Free Update Details
Starfield is officially launching on PlayStation 5 on April 7, priced at $50 for the base game. The release will coincide with the debut of the new Terran Armada DLC and a substantial free update for all players, which includes enhancements to space flight, customization, and new content. A premium edition priced at $70 will include the Shattered Space DLC alongside the new Terran Armada expansion.
Starfield is coming to PlayStation 5 on April 7
Starfield is slated for a PlayStation 5 release on April 7, 2026, with both Standard and Premium editions planned. A physical edition will also be available, though early access will not be included with the Premium edition.
