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Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Xbox.
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Microsoft is paving more PC roads to Project Helix, releasing a Windows 11 Xbox Mode in April for laptops and desktops
Microsoft is releasing a dedicated Xbox mode for Windows 11 in April, which will be available on laptops, desktops, and tablets. This mode aims to provide a controller-optimized experience for browsing the game library, launching titles, and using the Game Bar.
Microsoft talk backwards compatibility for Xbox Project Helix but not AI
Microsoft discussed backwards compatibility and cross-device play for its upcoming console, codenamed Project Helix, at GDC 2026. While the company is heavily invested in generative AI, it was not mentioned in relation to Project Helix, possibly to avoid controversy. The console, described as a PC in a console shell, will feature AMD technology for enhanced ray tracing and seamless integration with PC gaming via an Xbox mode for Windows 11.
Xbox mode is rolling out to all Windows 11 PCs next month — and some gamers are excited, while others are worried
Microsoft is rolling out a new 'Xbox mode' to all Windows 11 PCs starting next month, which offers a streamlined, controller-friendly interface and resource savings. Previously known as the Xbox Full Screen Experience, this mode aims to unify the PC and Xbox ecosystems. While some gamers are excited about the potential for a more integrated experience, others express concerns about potential ad integration and the future of the standalone Xbox console.
Microsoft confirms its next Xbox, Project Helix, will go out to studios next year — 'We plan to ship alpha versions of the hardware to developers beginning in 2027'
Microsoft has provided an update on its next-generation Xbox console, codenamed Project Helix, confirming that alpha versions of the hardware will be distributed to developers starting in 2027. VP Jason Ronald stated that the company is committed to ensuring four generations of Xbox games remain playable. This announcement comes amidst discussions about the future of gaming platforms and Microsoft's long-term investment in the sector.
Microsoft sets up Project Helix Xbox for Christmas 2027 battle against PS6
Microsoft has revealed details about its next-generation Xbox console, codenamed Project Helix, which is expected to launch around Christmas 2027. The device is described as more of a gaming PC and will feature AMD's new FSR Diamond technology. Dev kits are slated to ship in 2027, with potential competition from Sony's PlayStation 6 and Valve's Steam Machine.
Until Dawn remake dev Ballistic Moon has closed
Ballistic Moon, the developer behind the 2024 remake of Until Dawn, has officially closed down. The studio experienced multiple rounds of layoffs starting in September 2024, with a final notice of dissolution filed in February 2026. Separately, Microsoft revealed early technical details for its next-generation Xbox console, codenamed Project Helix, which will feature a custom AMD SOC and significant advancements in ray tracing and neural rendering, with developer dev kits expected in 2027.
Xbox Helix skickas till utvecklare under 2027: "Ett enormt kliv"
Microsoft has revealed details about its next-generation Xbox, codenamed "Project Helix," which is expected to launch around 2027. The console will feature a custom AMD SoC, offering significant advancements in ray tracing, AI integration, and overall performance. Alpha versions are slated to be sent to developers starting in 2027.
1 Catline Review | TheXboxHub
1 Catline is a puzzle-platformer where players control a girl and a long, floating cat that can be used as a platform or staircase. While the game features clever puzzles and an innovative core mechanic, the review notes that the constant need for character switching and repositioning can be frustrating. Despite its fresh take on the genre, the article suggests the game could have been better by focusing more on the puzzles themselves.
Phasmophobia 1.0 Won't Be Delayed As Its Dev Gets Into Something Totally Different
Kinetic Games confirmed that the 1.0 release of its multiplayer horror game Phasmophobia is on track for later this year, with no delays expected despite the studio's expansion into publishing. Studio CEO Daniel Knight stated he remains exclusively focused on Phasmophobia development, with new hires managing publishing duties. The 1.0 update will include overhauled character models, new maps, and additional ghost events, with a Nintendo Switch port also planned.
Game History and Preservation
A canceled Star Wars Battlefront 3 game for the Xbox 360 has been revived by fans. This fan effort highlights the ongoing interest in preserving and completing unreleased titles within the gaming community.
John Carpenter's Toxic Commando review - from the director of The Thing
John Carpenter's Toxic Commando is a competent co-op shooter that, despite its association with the acclaimed director, feels like an Xbox 360 era throwback. While the music and gunplay are solid, and the siege and vehicle sections are fun, the game suffers from unoriginal ideas, underdeveloped abilities, and a weak script. It offers a reasonably priced diversion for friends looking for a new co-op experience, but its connection to John Carpenter is limited primarily to the soundtrack.
Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly Remake Celebrates Launch With a Brand New Trailer
Koei Tecmo and Team Ninja have released a new trailer for the Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly Remake, celebrating its launch on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch. The trailer showcases the horror elements, gameplay featuring the Camera Obscura, and the story of twin sisters Mio and Mayu Amakura. Developers cited fan demand as the primary reason for the remake, which also includes improvements over the original 2003 PlayStation 2 release.
Steam Machine Will Recognize All Steam Deck Verified Titles, But 1080p/30 FPS is a Must
Valve has outlined the minimum requirements for games to be verified on the upcoming Steam Machine, stating that titles must run at 1080p and 30 FPS, mirroring the Steam Deck's standards. More demanding requirements exist for VR titles, while 2D games need 30 FPS at 720p. Valve also discussed optimizations for lower-specced machines and controller support for developers targeting SteamOS.
Project Helix Alpha Dev Kits Shipping in 2027, Xbox Mode Coming to Windows 11 Next Month
Microsoft announced that dev kits for the next-generation Project Helix console will ship in 2027, featuring custom AMD hardware with advanced ray tracing capabilities. Additionally, an Xbox mode, previously exclusive to the ASUS ROG Ally X, will be integrated into Windows 11 next month, allowing for a seamless switch between productivity and gaming with controller support.
Xbox lead thinks "we have been in a golden age for indies" since 2008, and it's "a fantastic time to be a developer" if you ignore all the smoke: "The present is awesome"
ID@Xbox director Chris Charla believes the video game industry is currently experiencing a golden age for indie games, a trend that has persisted for nearly 20 years since 2008. He highlights the creativity and success of indie titles like Mewgenics and Slay the Spire 2, stating it's a fantastic time to be a developer despite broader industry challenges.
Xbox teases "some iconic games from the past" to be re-released in 2026, after its "game preservation team" spent years "working very hard in the background"
Xbox plans to re-release several classic, unnamed games in 2026 as part of its commitment to game preservation. Xbox's next-gen VP Jason Ronald stated that these titles will be playable in new ways, leveraging technologies like Auto HDR and FPS Boost. This initiative aims to make older games accessible to new generations of players.
Xbox unveils first tech details of its next generation console, codenamed Project Helix
Microsoft's Xbox division has revealed initial technical details for its next-generation console, codenamed Project Helix, which is expected to feature a custom AMD-based SOC and significant advancements in ray tracing and neural rendering techniques. Hardware dev kits are anticipated by 2027, with a focus on delivering a high-performance, player-first experience. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella reaffirmed the company's commitment to investing in its gaming business.
‘This is a passion project for all of us here’: Xbox keeps pushing the envelope on preservation efforts
Xbox is prioritizing game preservation, aiming to keep older titles accessible and playable with modern enhancements like Auto HDR and FPS Boost. The company plans to release iconic retro games with new features as part of its 25th anniversary celebration later this year, potentially including remasters or remakes of titles like Fallout: New Vegas.
Microsoft says Xbox Play Anywhere titles can double spending and engagement
Microsoft states that Xbox Play Anywhere titles engage players more, leading to over double the in-game hours and game purchases compared to other players. Xbox VP Jason Ronald highlighted that over 1,500 titles support the program, allowing cross-platform play and progression. He encouraged developers to leverage this feature for tangible business benefits.
Microsoft finally shares details of the Xbox Project Helix console and its AMD heart
Microsoft officially unveiled details for its next-generation console, codenamed Xbox "Project Helix," at the 2026 Game Developer Conference. The console features a custom AMD SoC with support for next-gen DirectX and FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) Diamond, promising enhanced ray tracing and visual performance. Project Helix will also support PC games and feature a unified development environment for developers, with an alpha testing phase for developers starting in 2027.
