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Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Xbox.
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Report: Xbox testing a disc-to-digital feature
Microsoft is reportedly testing a 'disc-to-digital' feature for Xbox, allowing users to convert physical game discs into digital licenses. This process is tied to the original disc, meaning it cannot be transferred to another user. The feature may not be compatible with all Xbox One games, depending on their manufacturing date.
This Week In Games Was Bad, But Next Week May Be Worse
The gaming industry experienced a particularly bleak week with multiple significant layoffs, studio closures, and price increases. Microsoft's Xbox division saw widespread job cuts, while Sony announced plans to end physical disc production for PlayStation games by 2028. These events, coupled with delays and the ongoing impact of AI discussions, paint a grim picture for the industry's immediate future.
PlayStation killing discs is bad for everyone, whether you care about physical games or not
Sony's decision to cease production of physical PlayStation game discs in 2028 is a significant loss for consumers, impacting game preservation and the used games market. While digital distribution benefits publishers, the end of physical media raises concerns about long-term game access, potential surveillance pricing, and Sony's complete control over its ecosystem.
Publisher Krafton finally agrees to pay bonuses to every Subnautica 2 staffer as Unknown Worlds CEO Ted Gill leaves again
Publisher Krafton has agreed to pay promised bonuses to all staffers at developer Unknown Worlds for Subnautica 2, following a legal dispute and the game's success. Unknown Worlds CEO Ted Gill is departing the company again, stating that new leadership is best for the studio's future. The agreement ensures all employees will receive payouts, with further incentives tied to the game's ongoing updates.
Akuma Rise Review | TheXboxHub
Akuma Rise is a return to KEMCO's familiar retro JRPG formula, featuring turn-based combat, random encounters, and a story about a demon named Kaine with amnesia. While the presentation and gameplay are standard for the developer, the game offers a comfortable but unexciting experience that doesn't introduce new elements.
Solarpunk Review | TheXboxHub
Solarpunk is a lite survival game focused on exploration, resource gathering, and cozy crafting, set on floating islands with a solarpunk aesthetic. While it offers a wide variety of decorative options and a renewable energy progression system, the game is held back by a basic and finicky UI, tedious progression, and a lackluster airship feature. Despite its beautiful aesthetic and building options, the game's slow gameplay loop and restrictive systems may only appeal to a niche audience.
Murder on the Disorient Express Review | TheXboxHub
Murder on the Disorient Express is a choose-your-own-adventure murder mystery game that draws parallels to Agatha Christie's work. While the game's structure of time-based choices and scheduling character interactions is praised, the narrative, writing quality, and robo-voiced acting are criticized for being convoluted and lacking polish. The game is available on Xbox.
Two Point Museum: Arty-Facts Review | TheXboxHub
The Arty-Facts DLC for Two Point Museum adds a new museum location, Undee Docks, and introduces art experts who can create over 27 unique art exhibits, including famous works. This expansion builds upon the core gameplay with new crafting mechanics, expeditions, and themed auctions, offering more creative content and humor.
EA changes Battlefield 6 XP Boosters for the better, only to yet again reveal the change was an error and take it back
EA and Battlefield Studios have repeatedly altered and then retracted changes to how XP Boosters function in Battlefield 6. An in-game message announced a change to time-based XP boosters, only for the company to claim it was an error and revert the system, frustrating players who had previously experienced a similar issue.
King of Tokyo Review | TheXboxHub
This review criticizes the digital port of the board game King of Tokyo, calling it a "bottom-shelf port" despite its functional gameplay. Key issues include the lack of online multiplayer, a drab visual presentation, and slow pacing, which are particularly disappointing for a £24.99 price point. The article notes that while the core mechanics work, the port offers a bare minimum experience with no expansions or additional game modes.
Little Nightmares III - The Backstage Review | TheXboxHub
The Backstage, the first story DLC for Little Nightmares III, returns players to the nightmare with a new co-op partner, Dime, and a head torch mechanic. This DLC introduces a new enemy, The Puppeteer, and offers more challenging puzzles than the base game. Despite its short length, the DLC provides a terrifying and visually impressive experience that maintains the series' signature atmosphere.
Project Helix Could Launch Without a Disc Drive – Rumor
A rumor suggests that Microsoft's next-generation Xbox console, codenamed Project Helix, may launch without a disc drive. This follows speculation that the PlayStation 6 will also omit physical media support. While not officially confirmed, the move could be a cost-saving measure for both companies, impacting digital ownership and physical collectors.
Hunt the Death Cult in Season of Death Awakening
Diablo IV's Season of Death Awakening launches on June 30, introducing new mechanics like Pandemonium Ruptures, Mythic Uniques 3.0, and the Tower & Leaderboards. The update also brings quality-of-life improvements, a free Warlock class trial, and an Overwatch collaboration. Players can also try the new Solo Self Found mode and earn various seasonal rewards.
PS6 could cost nearly $1,000 USD just to produce
A leaker suggests the PlayStation 6 could cost nearly $1,000 USD to produce due to rising component prices, particularly for RAM and SSDs driven by the AI boom. Sony Interactive Entertainment CEO Hideaki Nishino indicated that the company may not absorb all increased costs, implying higher retail prices for future consoles. This trend is also impacting sales of current-generation consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.
First-of-its-kind Souls-like FPS Guns of Eschaton Announced, Set in Viktor Antonov’s Apocalyptic Dying West
Publisher 4Divinity and developer Eschatology Entertainment have announced Guns of Eschaton, a new Souls-like first-person shooter set in an apocalyptic Western world envisioned by the late Viktor Antonov. The game emphasizes deliberate, high-stakes combat where every bullet counts, and features deep character progression and customization. Guns of Eschaton is set to release on June 30, 2026, for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
Microsoft pulls out of IO Interactive’s Project Fantasy
Microsoft has ended its partnership with IO Interactive on the upcoming fantasy RPG Project Fantasy, which was intended to be an Xbox exclusive. IO Interactive is committed to continuing the project despite the setback and is implementing staffing changes. Microsoft stated this decision reflects a shift in investment focus rather than a reduction in overall gaming investment.
N.E.R.D. Review | TheXboxHub
N.E.R.D. is an FMV escape room game developed by Forever Entertainment that puts players in a series of deadly puzzles inspired by the SAW film franchise. The game features a gripping narrative that quickly throws players into action, with the core experience focusing on challenging, first-person escape room puzzles under time pressure. Despite some minor input delays, the presentation, audio, and puzzle design are praised for their effectiveness in creating a tense and engaging thriller.
Guns of Eschaton Announced
Publisher 4Divinity and developer Eschatology Entertainment have announced Guns of Eschaton, a new soulslike first-person shooter. The game is slated for release on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, with a specific release date yet to be determined.
Is GTA VI Coming to Nintendo Switch 2?
Following the release of the Grand Theft Auto VI trailer, speculation has emerged about a potential Nintendo Switch 2 version. Insider Nash Weedle has suggested that technical hurdles for a Switch 2 port have been overcome, with specialized studios optimizing the game, though it is not expected for the initial 2026 launch. Take-Two Interactive has not ruled out supporting Nintendo's next console, making a port a potentially significant business opportunity.
Bahamut and the Waqwaq Tree Review | TheXboxHub
Bahamut and the Waqwaq Tree is a 2D underwater adventure game inspired by Arabian mythology, focusing on exploration and gentle puzzle-solving with minimal combat. Players collect items to cleanse the ocean, uncovering lore through hidden scrolls and engaging with characters. While the game offers a relaxing experience with a beautiful visual style and fitting soundtrack, some players might find the gameplay loop repetitive and the swimming mechanics occasionally less fluid than desired.
