Xbox
Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Xbox.
Latest coverage
"People want MMOs, and the sales of New World proved it" – Cryptic Studios head Jack Emmert on why MMOs are ripe for reinvention
Cryptic Studios CEO Jack Emmert believes the MMORPG market is still strong, citing the sales of New World as proof, despite recent cancellations. He argues that successful MMOs should focus on a distinct vision and niche audience rather than trying to appeal to everyone, which often leads to diluted experiences. Emmert also emphasizes the importance of rapid prototyping and controlled scope for long-term success in the genre.
Cutout Village launches its demo on Steam and unveils a new trailer at the Six One Indie Showcase
DevilishGames has released a demo for their paper-based city-builder, Cutout Village, on Steam, coinciding with a new trailer reveal at the Six One Indie Showcase. The demo, available until the Steam Next Fest, features a story mode level and allows players to experience the core mechanics of building villages through paper crafts. The full game is slated for release in the second half of 2026 on PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox.
Here's what was revealed during The Warhammer Skulls Showcase 2026
The Warhammer Skulls Showcase 2026 featured numerous announcements and updates for Warhammer games, primarily on PC. Key reveals included the release date for Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War IV, new content for Warhammer 40,000: Darktide and Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, and demos for Warhammer Survivors and Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2. Crossplay was also enabled for Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks.
The Evolution of Rewards in Xbox Games
The evolution of reward systems in Xbox games has transformed the player experience from simple scorekeeping to complex progression systems involving skins, achievements, and seasonal unlocks. Mechanics like random rewards and prestige systems, exemplified by franchises like Halo and Call of Duty, have significantly increased player engagement and shaped modern gaming culture.
ByoWave Proteus Controller Explained: How Modular Accessibility Pads Could Change Xbox Play
The ByoWave Proteus Controller for Xbox offers a modular approach to accessibility, allowing players to customize its shape and button layout to fit their individual needs and comfort levels. This "Designed for Xbox" device aims to address issues like hand strain, limited reach, and one-handed play, differentiating itself from traditional enthusiast controllers by adapting to the player rather than the other way around. While priced at $299 and requiring some experimentation, the Proteus represents a significant step towards a more flexible and inclusive gaming experience on Xbox.
How Play Became Part of Everyday Life
Gaming has evolved from a niche hobby into a mainstream cultural activity enjoyed across various platforms including consoles, mobile devices, and PCs. The industry's growth is driven by diverse player motivations, the accessibility of mobile gaming, the rise of esports, and the interactive nature of game narratives. While offering numerous benefits like improved cognitive skills and social connection, the article also cautions about potential risks of excessive play and emphasizes the importance of balance and respect for player time and money in game design.
Forza Horizon 6 Crosses 6 Million Players
Playground Games announced that Forza Horizon 6 has surpassed six million players since its staggered release in May. The game is performing strongly, topping sales charts and receiving positive reviews, with expectations to exceed Forza Horizon 5's player count. The article also speculates on potential release windows for the PlayStation 5 version, aiming to avoid competition with Grand Theft Auto 6.
Preorder 8BitDo’s Stunning Ultimate 3 Controller In Lavender Dusk
8BitDo has opened preorders for its new Ultimate 3 controller in the 'Lavender Dusk' colorway, set to release in August for $100. The controller features customizable TMR joysticks with Force Ring technology, hall-effect impulse triggers, and configurable R4/L4 buttons. It also includes a charging dock and is compatible with PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch.
Microsoft's Xbox controller refresh kills its underused accessory port
Microsoft has discontinued the use of its accessory port on new Xbox controllers, effectively rendering accessories like Chatpads obsolete. This change impacts the compatibility of older peripherals with the latest controller hardware.
XBOX Celebrates Global Accessibility Awareness Day with Improved Adaptive Thumbstick Toppers and More
Xbox is celebrating Global Accessibility Awareness Day with updates to its Adaptive Thumbstick Toppers, including a new Goal Post shape available through Xbox Design Lab. The company also refreshed its Accessible Gaming page on Xbox.com for easier navigation of features and tools. Several games like Forza Horizon 6, Kiln, Sea of Thieves, and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 are highlighted for their ongoing commitment to inclusive design and accessibility features.
SEGA Revives Crazy Taxi Social Media Ahead of New PS5 Game Reveal
SEGA has revived the social media accounts for Crazy Taxi for the first time in seven years, sparking speculation about a new game. The company is reportedly working on a reboot of the arcade series, with some suggesting it could be an online multiplayer title. A reveal at an upcoming event like State of Play or Summer Game Fest seems likely, with the Xbox Showcase also a possibility.
Long-Running PS5, PS4 Multiplayer Game Ending Development
Bungie announced that development on its long-running multiplayer RPG, Destiny 2, will cease after its final live-service content update on June 9, 2026. The studio will shift focus to incubating new games, though the Destiny franchise's future remains uncertain. The final update will include significant changes and story conclusions.
Everything Revealed At The 10th Anniversary Of Warhammer Skulls
The 10th anniversary Warhammer Skulls showcase revealed numerous game updates, world premieres, and new releases across the Warhammer universe. Highlights include new titles like Warhammer Age of Sigmar: Deathmaster and Warhammer 40,000: Chaos Gate - Deathwatch, along with updates for existing games such as Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War IV and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide. The event also coincided with the annual Warhammer Skulls: Festival of Video Games sale.
Warhammer Skulls 2026 – All The News and Updates for XBOX
The 10th anniversary Warhammer Skulls festival brought numerous game announcements, updates, and discounts for Xbox platforms. Highlights include new trailers and gameplay reveals for Warhammer 40,000: Chaos Gate – Deathwatch, Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus 2, and Warhammer Age of Sigmar: Deathmaster. Several titles received free updates or DLC, and many games are available through Xbox Game Pass and Free Play Days.
Warhammer Age Of Sigmar: Deathmaster Brings Sneaky Assassinations To PC And Consoles Next Year
Warhammer Age of Sigmar: Deathmaster, a 2D action-platformer focused on stealth and assassination, was announced during Warhammer Skulls 2026. Developed by Dotemu, the game stars the Skaven assassin Vihneek and will be released in 2027 for PC and consoles.
Grab Xbox Controllers for $39 During Lenovo’s Memorial Sale
Lenovo is offering a significant discount on official Xbox Wireless Controllers during its Memorial Day sale, bringing the price down to $39 with a discount code. The controllers are compatible with Xbox, PC, iOS, and Android devices and are available in several colors, though some have already sold out.
Playtime Co. Opens Its Doors on Console May 27th — Poppy Playtime: Chapter 5 Comes to Xbox, PlayStation 4&5, and Nintendo Switch
Mob Entertainment announced that Poppy Playtime: Chapter 5 - Broken Things will launch on consoles on May 27, 2026, for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox. The latest chapter of the horror franchise introduces new puzzles, characters, and a deeper dive into the mysteries of Playtime Co.
PlayStation's dynamic pricing experiment, and Sony's lack of transparency about it, reportedly might violate European law
Sony's recent dynamic pricing experiments on the PlayStation Store may violate European Union consumer law due to a lack of transparency. Experts suggest that failing to clearly communicate personalized pricing to users contravenes EU Directive 2011/83/EU. While Microsoft also uses personalized pricing on Xbox, they disclose it, unlike Sony's undisclosed methods which could lead to fines or competition law issues.
Bluey’s Quest for the Gold Pen Review | TheXboxHub
Bluey's Quest for the Gold Pen is a delightful introduction to RPG and Legend of Zelda-style mechanics for children, offering an authentic Bluey universe experience with a vast sandbox. Despite a controversial portrayal of the father character, Bandit, and the lack of co-op play, the game excels with its creative use of toys and engaging quests. It provides a wealth of content that appeals to both kids and adults, surpassing previous Bluey titles.
The 12 Best Buy Memorial Day sales gamers should know about, based on in-game testing with each one
Best Buy is offering significant discounts on gaming technology during its Memorial Day sale. The article highlights 12 recommended deals on items like games for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox, as well as the ASUS ROG Ally and controllers, all of which have received high review scores and are at or near their lowest prices.
