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Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Xbox.
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Final Fantasy 14 is finally coming to Switch 2 just in time for the Evercold expansion, but you'll need to buy a separate subscription even if you play on another platform
Final Fantasy XIV Online's next expansion, Evercold, is set to launch in January 2027 and will also be released on the Nintendo Switch 2 in August. However, players will require a separate subscription for the Switch 2 version, even if they already subscribe on other platforms like PC, PlayStation, or Xbox. The expansion will introduce a new story arc, 'Godless Realms Saga', and significant battle system overhauls.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth demo has dropped on Switch 2 & Xbox
Square Enix has released a free demo for Final Fantasy VII Rebirth on Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox, featuring the opening chapters and allowing progress to be carried over. The demo includes new features like Streamlined Progression and rewards players with in-game items for the full release. The article also references a preview of the game on Switch 2 and includes a positive review of the original PlayStation 5 release.
Steam Controller release date revealed as Steam Machine price increases
Valve has announced the release date for the Steam Controller as May 4th, priced at £85, and confirmed that the Steam Machine's release has been impacted by memory shortages, shifting its window to the first half of 2026. Hardware engineer Steve Cardinali explained that the controller's release was prioritized over the Steam Machine due to development unaffected by shortages. Pricing for the Steam Machine and Steam Frame remains unconfirmed, though they are expected to be more expensive than initially planned.
GRIME II Review | TheXboxHub
GRIME II is a challenging Metroidvania action RPG that improves upon its predecessor, GRIME: Colors of Rot. Developed by Clover Bite and published by Kwalee, the game features a deformed universe, intuitive combat with a new enemy-absorbing mechanic, and a deep skill tree. It is available on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC.
Favorite Xbox Games Played By The GamblingNerd.com Team
The GamblingNerd.com team shares their favorite Xbox games, highlighting titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, Halo: The Master Chief Collection, Forza Horizon 5, Madden NFL 26, NBA 2K26, Starfield, EA Sports FC 26, and Elden Ring. They discuss why these games remain enjoyable for their blend of competitive play, nostalgia, relaxation, and immersive experiences.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Streamlined Progression Was Added to Address Game Length Concerns
Naoki Hamaguchi discussed the addition of the Streamlined Progression feature in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, explaining it was implemented to address concerns about the game's length and expand player access. This feature offers options like unlimited HP/MP and constant ATB gauge access, aiming to accommodate varying player time commitments and playstyles across its planned trilogy.
The Complete History Of The Xbox Logo: From Green Glow To Modern Minimal
This article traces the evolution of the Xbox logo from its inception in the late 1990s to a new design introduced in 2026. It details the various iterations of the logo, highlighting changes in color, shape, and font that reflected the console's branding and market position across different generations, including the Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.
NTE: Neverness to Everness release countdown – Exact date and time
Neverness to Everness will launch globally on April 29, with some regions releasing it on April 28. The open-world RPG, set in the city of Hethereau, features supernatural entities, crew management, an antique shop, and gacha elements. The game will be available simultaneously on PC, consoles, and mobile devices.
Xbox boss warns "memory costs will impact pricing, will impact availability" when it comes to Project Helix
Xbox boss Asha Sharma acknowledged that the ongoing memory shortage crisis will impact the pricing and availability of its next-generation console, codenamed Project Helix. Sharma stated that Microsoft is considering these factors as part of its equation to ensure accessibility for players. The crisis, exacerbated by AI data centers consuming large amounts of memory, is reportedly causing Sony to consider delaying its own next-generation console rollout.
Kelsi Davies Interview – Psychic/Clairvoyant Talks Haunt Escape, Disneyland & More
Content creator and clairvoyant Kelsi Davies discusses her spiritual journey, paranormal investigations, and her involvement with the game Haunt Escape developed by Hibby Games. Davies shares insights from her experiences at haunted locations like the Whaley House and Bracken Fern Manor, her thoughts on the supernatural at Disneyland, and her passion for gaming, citing titles like Resident Evil and Dishonored as inspirations.
After a week testing Valve's new Steam Controller, it's better in almost every way - but still a bit of a niche proposition
Valve's new Steam Controller offers significant improvements over its predecessor, drawing design inspiration from the Steam Deck and enhancing usability for PC gaming on a couch. While it excels at adapting mouse-driven games for controller input, its specific design choices and thumbstick placement make it a niche product, though a solid upgrade for those who already appreciate its unique approach.
Major League Fishing Announces MLF Pro Catch Video Game, A Next-Generation Competitive Fishing Experience
Major League Fishing has announced MLF Pro Catch, a new competitive fishing simulator game set to launch on Steam in June 2026, with console releases for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Meta VR to follow. The game features realistic fishing mechanics, dynamic environments, over 40 fish species with distinct AI behaviors, and licensed equipment from industry brands. MLF Pro Catch will also include online tournaments with real-world prizes, aiming to provide an authentic and competitive angling experience.
With Forza Horizon 6 launching in less than a month, here's the best sim racing wheel I'd recommend right now
With Forza Horizon 6 launching soon, the Logitech G RS50 is recommended as the best overall sim racing wheel for PC, Xbox, and PlayStation 5. This modular setup offers powerful Direct Drive and TRUEFORCE feedback in a compact design, providing excellent value and an immersive experience.
Valkyrie Initiative Reveals New Gameplay Trailer for Kettlebell: Inferno Hotel During The Wishlisted Showcase
Valkyrie Initiative and 70`Strike revealed a new gameplay trailer for their upcoming 2D platformer, Kettlebell: Inferno Hotel, during The Wishlisted Showcase. The trailer highlights the game's chaotic platforming, surreal hellish locations, and fast-paced action inspired by 16-bit classics. The game is confirmed for PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Drop Duchy est disponible MAINTENANT sur PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox et Xbox Game Pass!
Drop Duchy: Complete Edition is now available on PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox, including Xbox Game Pass. This edition features all previously released DLC, The Tribe and The North, offering a complete strategic experience. The game blends deckbuilding, puzzle mechanics, and roguelite progression in a charming medieval world.
Dono’s Tale gets playable demo
A playable demo for the upcoming 2D platformer Dono's Tale is now available. The game, inspired by SNES classics, features a cartoony aesthetic and music from composer Soyo Oka. Dono's Tale is set to launch on PC and Nintendo Switch, with Xbox and PlayStation versions planned for later.
Guitar Hero Hardware Still Worth the Investment in 2026 | HappyGamer
Despite the advent of modern consoles and GPUs, legacy Guitar Hero hardware from the mid-2000s is presented as a worthwhile investment in 2026 due to its durable build quality and enduring fun factor. While compatibility issues exist across modern platforms, the PC scene and community-driven solutions like Clone Hero keep the rhythm game alive. The article highlights that well-maintained controllers are appreciating in value on the used market, contrasting with the rapid depreciation of contemporary gaming hardware.
Why publishers and investors are increasingly backing user-generated games over conventional ones
Investment in user-generated content (UGC) games, particularly on platforms like Roblox, is rapidly increasing, attracting venture capital and publishers who are shifting focus from traditional PC and console titles. Investment firm Double Black Capital notes that while major publishers are still observing, mid-market companies are actively acquiring UGC developers and games due to their high profitability and rapid deal cycles compared to conventional gaming acquisitions. This trend is also extending to platforms like Minecraft, with investors drawn to the potential for significant returns on investment with lower operating costs.
Xbox boss: Memory crisis could impact next-gen hardware availability and pricing
Xbox boss Asha Sharma has indicated that ongoing memory chip shortages, driven by AI data center demand, could impact the pricing and availability of next-generation hardware, codenamed Project Helix. While development kits are set to ship in 2027, a consumer launch timeline remains unconfirmed due to the dynamic market conditions. Sharma emphasized a focus on building a great console and offering flexible pricing, despite potential cost increases.
Call of Duty was never the right fit for Game Pass | Opinion
Microsoft has reversed its strategy of including Call of Duty titles on Game Pass at launch and has rolled back recent subscription price hikes. The company realized that the franchise's core audience is not primarily interested in subscription services, and the inclusion of Call of Duty did not drive expected growth or justify lost sales revenue. This move aims to correct a strategic misstep by better aligning Game Pass value with its existing subscriber base and acknowledging the distinct market segments within gaming.
