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Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Xbox.
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Become the Butcher in Season of Slaughter
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and Essential members can play Diablo IV, Killing Floor 3, Bassmaster Fishing, Worms W.M.D, and Tropico 6 for free from March 12 to March 15. This promotion offers a selection of titles across various genres for subscribers to experience over the weekend.
Minecraft Live Returns on March 21 – Here’s a Sneak Peek at What to Expect
Minecraft Live is returning on March 21, with a preview of what to expect. The article discusses the historical console sales strategies of Sony and Nintendo, focusing on the reliance on third-party versus first-party exclusives throughout different PlayStation generations and Nintendo's shift away from the power arms race.
At Fate’s End: Hands-On with Thunder Lotus’ Gorgeous New Action-Adventure
This article discusses the current state and future of the Xbox brand, with commenters debating Microsoft's strategy regarding Game Pass pricing, the move to PC and cloud gaming, and the overall perception of the Xbox name. Some express nostalgia for the Xbox 360 era and wish for a return to a more traditional console experience, while others highlight the benefits of Microsoft's cross-platform approach.
Screenbound: Getting Our Heads Around the Brain-Breaking “5D” Platformer
This article discusses the current state and future strategy of the Xbox brand, with commenters debating Microsoft's approach to Game Pass pricing, its expansion to PC, and the overall console market. There's a sentiment that the Xbox brand has lost its way since the Xbox 360 era, with some wishing for a return to a more focused console experience, while others highlight the benefits of cross-platform play and PC integration. The discussion also touches on antitrust concerns and lawsuits involving Sony and Valve.
FATAL FRAME II: Crimson Butterfly REMAKE Review | TheXboxHub
Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake revitalizes the classic survival horror experience with updated visuals and new content, including additional story elements and areas. While the core gameplay centered around the Camera Obscura remains engaging, the remake introduces an "aggravated state" for wraiths that can lead to frustrating difficulty spikes and combat grind, even on lower settings.
GOALS ENTERS OPEN BETA
The free-to-play football game GOALS has entered open beta on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation. Developed by a team led by esports veteran Andreas Thorstensson, the game emphasizes responsive gameplay, advanced netcode, and accessibility. The open beta aims to gather player feedback to shape the future of the game, with a full launch planned before the 2026 World Cup.
Morning Consolidation
MotionRec has announced its release date with a new trailer for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. Xbox Wire also detailed new games coming to Xbox from March 16 to 20.
Will there actually be any such thing as a Project Helix "native" game? | Opinion
Microsoft's GDC keynote revealed details about Project Helix, its next-generation Xbox hardware, which appears to be a PC-like console designed for enthusiasts. The device is expected to play PC games and back-catalog titles, blurring the lines between Xbox and Windows. Key unanswered questions revolve around third-party store integration, particularly Steam, and whether dedicated 'Helix native' games will exist, suggesting a potential shift away from console-specific software.
ID@Xbox at GDC 2026: Indie Developers at the Heart of Great Games
Xbox highlighted its commitment to indie developers at GDC 2026, emphasizing their crucial role in delivering innovative and successful games. The company discussed policy changes aimed at improving game discovery on the Xbox Store and reaffirmed its support for sustainable game development through programs like ID@Xbox and Game Pass.
Larry Hryb joins Commodore International Corporation as community development consultant
A Newzoo report indicates a significant lack of overlap between players of Roblox and Minecraft and those who play traditional AAA titles like Assassin's Creed: Shadows. These younger players are more likely to engage with live service games such as Fortnite and Grand Theft Auto V, or games that resemble Roblox experiences. This trend raises questions about the future evolution of the gaming audience and the market for AAA games.
Roblox and Minecraft players are less likely to play traditional AAA video games
A Newzoo report indicates that players of Roblox and Minecraft have significantly less overlap with traditional AAA game audiences compared to live service titles like Fortnite and Grand Theft Auto V. This trend is attributed to a shift away from graphical fidelity as a primary driver of popularity and the younger demographic's preference for free-to-play models. The analysis questions whether these players will transition to AAA games as they age or continue to favor sandbox and live service experiences.
John Carpenter's Toxic Commando Review | TheXboxHub
John Carpenter's Toxic Commando blends 80s action movie aesthetics with zombie-slaying co-op gameplay. Developed by Saber Interactive, the first-person shooter features four distinct characters, nine campaigns, and a focus on fast-paced, chaotic combat against hordes of enemies. The game aims for a tongue-in-cheek tone, offering both solo and multiplayer experiences with a strong emphasis on teamwork and explosive action.
Microsoft removes its 'This is an Xbox' marketing campaign and is slowly purging all mention of it
Microsoft has removed its 'This is an Xbox' marketing campaign, which broadly defined the brand beyond traditional consoles to include various devices and cloud gaming. The company is also purging mentions of the campaign from its platforms, suggesting a shift in strategy possibly related to future hardware like Project Helix.
Future Games Show Spring Showcase & FGS Live From GDC 2026: Every Game Announcement and Reveal |
The Future Games Show Spring Showcase 2026 featured over 40 game announcements and reveals for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox. The event, co-hosted by Devora Wilde and Shai Matheson, included world premieres and updates from both AAA and indie developers. A subsequent FGS Live From GDC broadcast continued with additional reveals directly from the Game Developers Conference.
The 5 best meditation apps for 2026
This guide reviews the best meditation apps for 2026, highlighting their benefits for stress, sleep, and focus. While meditation is not a universal cure, apps can provide guided sessions and motivational features for beginners. The article also briefly touches on meditation wearables like the Sens.ai Neurofeedback System and NeoRhythm Omnipemf.
Marvel Maximum Collection Releas Date Announced, Physical Edition To follow
The Marvel Maximum Collection, featuring classic Marvel titles like Captain America and Venom, will launch digitally on March 27 for Xbox, PlayStation, PC, and Nintendo Switch. The collection includes improvements such as 6-player online play and a time rewind feature. A physical edition from Limited Run Games, priced at $40, will also be available for pre-order starting March 27.
The impossible question: will the director general of European age-ratings body PEGI allow his teenage son to play Grand Theft Auto 6?
PEGI director general Dirk Bosmans discussed the challenges of age ratings for games like Grand Theft Auto 6, especially with his own 15-year-old son. He emphasized that PEGI provides advice for parents to make informed decisions, highlighting the importance of conversation over strict adherence to ratings. The article also touches on upcoming changes to PEGI's rating system, which will factor in in-game purchases.
Fragzone-fredag – En ikon fyller 40!
This episode of Fragzone-fredag celebrates Mario's 40th anniversary, highlighting favorite titles from the iconic character's extensive gameography. The discussion also touches upon Microsoft's upcoming Xbox console, codenamed 'Helix,' and its potential impact on pricing due to its focus on performance.
Free Play Days Diablo IV, Killing Floor 3, Bassmaster Fishing, Worms W.M.D and Tropico 6
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and Essential members can play Killing Floor 3, Bassmaster Fishing, Worms W.M.D, and Tropico 6 for free from Thursday, March 12 to Sunday, March 15. Diablo IV is also mentioned as a free play title.
Free Play Days – Diablo IV, Killing Floor 3, Bassmaster Fishing, Worms W.M.D and Tropico 6
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and Essential members can play Diablo IV, Killing Floor 3, Bassmaster Fishing, Worms W.M.D, and Tropico 6 for free from March 12 to March 15. This promotion offers a selection of titles across various genres for subscribers to enjoy over the weekend.
