Category Archives: Xbox

Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Microsft CEO confirms that Xbox Muse is scheduled with a training based on a catalog of games

In a groundbreaking move, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has revealed that the company plans to train its new AI system, Muse, on a catalog of video games. This announcement was made during an interview on the Dwarkesh Patel Podcast, where Nadella expressed his excitement about the potential of this technology to revolutionize the gaming industry.

Muse is a generative AI model designed to assist with game ideation, development, and preservation. Unlike traditional AI models, Muse can generate gameplay footage based on user input, creating a dynamic and interactive experience. Nadella described seeing Muse in action as a “massive, massive moment of ‘wow’,” comparing it to the first time he saw other generative AI models like ChatGPT and DALL-E.

Muse has been trained on years of gameplay footage from Ninja Theory’s arena shooter, Bleeding Edge. By ingesting this extensive archive, Muse can generate new gameplay footage and adapt it based on specific prompts from users. For example, if a user suggests adding a jump pad to a level, Muse can generate gameplay footage that incorporates this change.

Nadella emphasized that Muse is not yet capable of coding its own games or creating entirely new concepts. Instead, it serves as a tool to speed up the development process by providing generated gameplay footage. This capability could be particularly useful for game developers looking to quickly prototype and iterate on new ideas.

Potential Impact on the Gaming Industry

The introduction of Muse has sparked a range of reactions within the gaming community. Some experts, like gaming AI specialist Michael Cook, have praised the technology’s ability to handle complex visual information, such as lighting and camera angles. However, others remain skeptical about its practical applications.

Nadella also highlighted the potential for Muse to assist with game preservation, ensuring that classic titles remain accessible and playable for future generations. This aspect of Muse could be a game-changer for the industry, providing a new way to maintain and celebrate gaming history.

Microsoft’s decision to train its new AI on a catalog of games marks a significant step forward in the integration of AI technology within the gaming industry. While there are still many questions about how Muse will be used and its long-term impact, the excitement and potential surrounding this innovation are undeniable. As Nadella put it, this is just the beginning of what could be a transformative journey for both game developers and players alike.

Events, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

ID@Xbox FamFest Showcase 2025 was Xbox 2nd Round of 2025 gaming presentation

The ID@Xbox FamFest Showcase 2025 was a thrilling event that highlighted the vibrant future of indie games on the Xbox platform. Held on February 24, 2025, this showcase was part of the larger IGN Fan Fest, and it brought together a diverse array of indie developers and their upcoming projects.

Key Announcements and Highlights

  1. Revenge of the Savage Planet One of the most anticipated announcements was the release date for “Revenge of the Savage Planet,” set for May 8, 2025. The new trailer showcased a variety of wild and creative weapons, including a Goo Canon, an electric lasso, and Conductive Fero Goo that can shock or slow down enemies and open doors.
  2. Jump Ship “Jump Ship,” a co-op space adventure game, was another highlight of the showcase. The game is set to enter Early Access this summer and promises a unique multiplayer experience, blending elements from “Sea of Thieves,” “Left 4 Dead,” and “FTL”.
  3. Balatro Collaboration The showcase also featured the next big collaboration for “Balatro,” a game that has been generating a lot of buzz in the indie community. This collaboration is expected to bring new and exciting content to the game, further enhancing its appeal.
  4. Diverse Indie Lineup The event highlighted a wide range of indie studios, including Raw Fury, Team 17, Akupara, 11 Bit, and many others. These studios presented trailers, gameplay, and reveals for their upcoming projects, showcasing the creativity and innovation that indie developers bring to the gaming industry.

Other games included Echo Weaver, 33 Immortals, Astor: Blade of the Monolith, Vampire Survivors, Dungeons of Hinterberg, Monster Hunter Wilds, WWE 2K25 & Alien Rogue Incursion.

The Future of Indie Games on Xbox

The ID@Xbox FamFest Showcase 2025 demonstrated the strong support that Xbox continues to provide for indie developers. By partnering with IGN for this event, Xbox has created a platform for indie games to shine and reach a broader audience. The showcase not only highlighted the upcoming releases but also emphasized the importance of indie games in the gaming ecosystem.

The ID@Xbox FamFest Showcase 2025 was a celebration of indie games and their creators. With exciting announcements, diverse game reveals, and a strong focus on creativity, the event set the stage for a bright future for indie games on Xbox.

Business, Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Xbox Muse is the start of serious AI use in gaming preservation and re-development

Microsoft has recently unveiled an exciting new development in the gaming world: Xbox Muse, a generative AI model designed to revolutionize game ideation and preservation. Developed in collaboration with Xbox Game Studios’ Ninja Theory, Muse is a groundbreaking tool that leverages real player inputs to create gameplay sequences.

What is Xbox Muse?

Xbox Muse, short for World and Human Action Model (WHAM), is a generative AI model trained using data from Ninja Theory’s multiplayer battle arena game, Bleeding Edge. The model can generate both game visuals and controller actions, providing a detailed understanding of the 3D game world, including game physics and player interactions.

How Does Xbox Muse Work?

Muse was trained using anonymized data from 500,000 play sessions of Bleeding Edge. This extensive dataset allows the AI to simulate realistic gameplay sequences, demonstrating a significant step towards generative AI models that can empower game creators2. The model can generate gameplay visuals at a resolution of 300×180 pixels, a considerable improvement over previous models.

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Potential Applications of Xbox Muse

One of the most exciting aspects of Xbox Muse is its potential to revive nostalgic games that are no longer playable on modern hardware. By leveraging AI technology, developers can port old games to new platforms, making them accessible to future generations of players2. This not only preserves gaming history but also opens up new creative possibilities for game developers.

Microsoft plans to discuss AI experiences from Xbox in greater detail at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2025. Additionally, the company aims to make a series of AI-powered game experiences available on its Copilot Labs website, where subscribers can access various experimental AI features.

Xbox Muse represents a significant advancement in the intersection of AI and gaming. By harnessing the power of generative AI, Microsoft is paving the way for innovative game development and the preservation of classic games. As we look forward to more updates from Microsoft, the gaming community eagerly anticipates the exciting possibilities that Xbox Muse will bring.

Business, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

The official future Xbox was already apparent before the confirmation by Phil Spencer

In a recent interview with XboxEra, Phil Spencer, the head of Xbox, made some groundbreaking announcements that have sent ripples through the gaming community. The interview, which celebrated the 250th episode of the XboxEra podcast, was a candid and insightful discussion about the future of Xbox and its strategy moving forward.

The End of Exclusivity

One of the most significant revelations from the interview was Spencer’s confirmation that Xbox is no longer aiming for exclusivity. In a not surprising shift from previous strategies (if you were paying special attention at least since the purchase of Zenimax and Bethesda in 2021), Spencer stated “I’m not trying to move [PS5 and PC] all over to Xbox anymore.” He acknowledged that players are deeply invested in their current platforms and that Xbox’s goal now is to allow more people to play Xbox games, regardless of the system they own.

This move marks a departure from the traditional console wars, where each platform vied for exclusive titles to attract and retain players. Spencer emphasized that while Xbox only recoups 70% of the sale when games are sold on competitor devices, this strategy helps build a great portfolio and reach a broader audience.

Another key point Spencer discussed was Xbox’s commitment to supporting single-player games. He highlighted the importance of Xbox Game Pass in keeping modern single-player games viable3. Spencer explained, “Part of our reason for trying to get a subscription going was to allow us to also support games that have a beginning, middle, and end.” This approach helps studios resist the temptation to turn everything into a live-service product and ensures a diverse range of gaming experiences.

Spencer also indirectly confirmed that Double Fine Productions’ next project will be another single-player title, further underscoring Xbox’s dedication to this genre. With many more single-player games from both Microsoft and third-party studios coming to Xbox Game Pass in 2025, it’s clear that Xbox is committed to providing varied and engaging content for its subscribers.

The Back Story

The interview also touched on the back story of Xbox’s evolving strategy. Spencer reflected on the early days of Xbox and how the company’s focus has shifted over the years1. He mentioned that while Xbox initially aimed to dominate the gaming market with exclusive titles, the changing landscape and player preferences have led to a more inclusive approach.

Spencer’s pragmatic outlook was evident when he admitted that although he would prefer to make all the money from Xbox games, the current strategy of allowing games to be played on other platforms is beneficial for building a strong portfolio and reaching a wider audience. He also reassured fans that Xbox is not giving up on its hardware endeavors and continues to invest in its own platform.

As Xbox moves into this new era, Spencer’s vision is clear: to create a more inclusive gaming environment where players can enjoy Xbox games on their preferred platforms. This shift not only benefits players but also helps Xbox build a diverse and robust portfolio of games.

The interview with Phil Spencer was a refreshing and insightful look into the future of Xbox, and it’s clear that the company is committed to evolving with the times and meeting the needs of its players. As we look ahead, it will be exciting to see how this new strategy unfolds and what it means for the gaming community.

Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Harrison Ford Praises Troy Baker’s “Brilliant” Performance in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

In a recent turn of events, Harrison Ford, the iconic actor behind Indiana Jones, has praised Troy Baker’s performance in the latest action-adventure game, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. The game, developed by MachineGames and published by Bethesda, has been a major hit since its release on Xbox Series X/S consoles and PC in December 20242.

Troy Baker, a veteran voice actor known for his roles in The Last of Us and Batman: Arkham Knight, almost didn’t get the role of Indiana Jones. Bethesda Game Studios’ Todd Howard initially had reservations about casting Baker, but the blind casting auditions convinced him otherwise1. Baker’s commitment to channeling Ford’s legendary character won over the entire development team.

Baker’s portrayal of Indiana Jones has been widely acclaimed for its near-flawless capture of Ford’s iconic voice and mannerisms. Fans and critics alike have noted the uncanny resemblance between Baker’s performance and Ford’s original portrayal of the character1. This level of detail and dedication has set a new standard for video game voice acting.

Harrison Ford’s Approval

During The Game Awards 2024, Ford himself took the stage to present the award for Best Performance and publicly praised Baker’s work. He said,

If I had known he was that good, I would have done it myself.

This endorsement from Ford is a significant milestone for Baker and highlights the importance of talent and dedication in voice acting.

Ford’s comments on Baker’s performance also touched on the ongoing debate about the use of AI in replicating iconic voices. He stated:

You don’t need artificial intelligence to steal my soul. You can already do it for nickels and dimes with good ideas and talent.

This sentiment resonates with many in the industry who believe that AI should not replace human actors but rather complement their work.

Troy Baker’s brilliant performance in “Indiana Jones and the Great Circle” has not only earned him praise from fans and critics but also the approval of the man who originally brought Indiana Jones to life. This achievement serves as a testament to Baker’s talent and the importance of human creativity in the entertainment industry.

Games, Gaming, News, Playstation, Xbox

Microsoft Announces Age of Mythology: Retold for PS5

Microsoft has officially announced the release of Age of Mythology: Retold for PlayStation 5. The game, developed by World’s Edge, Forgotten Empires, Tantalus Media, CaptureAge, and Virtuos, is set to launch on March 4, 2025.

This announcement comes alongside the release of a new downloadable content (DLC) expansion titled “Immortal Pillars”.

Age of Mythology: Retold is a remaster of the beloved 2002 game, Age of Mythology, and combines the best elements of the original with modern real-time strategy design and visuals. Here are some key features:

  • Call Upon the Gods: Players can choose gods from the Greek, Norse, Egyptian, and Atlantean pantheons. They can summon powerful lightning storms, earth-shattering quakes, and even the famed Nidhogg dragon.
  • Unleash the Monsters: Command diverse units inspired by world mythologies, including Centaurs, Trolls, Mummies, and more.
  • Epic Mythological Universe: Embark on multiple campaigns spanning 50 missions across a vast, mythical world. Players can besiege the mighty walls of Troy, battle Giants in the frozen wastes of Midgard, and discover the mysteries of Osiris in the shifting sands of Egypt.
  • Limitless Adventure: Experience the game solo or with friends, challenging advanced AI across countless, randomly generated maps.

Age of Mythology: Retold was first revealed on October 25, 2022, and launched for Xbox Series, Xbox One, and PC via Steam and Microsoft Store on September 4, 2024. The game is also available via Game Pass. The decision to bring the game to PS5 marks a significant step in expanding the game’s reach and allowing players across different platforms to enjoy the experience together.

The game’s backstory delves into a mythical age where gods, monsters, and humans collide. Players take on the role of a hero or even a god, securing their domain and commanding legendary monsters while calling upon the power of the gods to crush their enemies.

Pre-orders for the PlayStation 5 version are available now. The standard edition is priced at $29.99, while the Premium Edition is priced at $49.99. The Premium Edition includes five days of early access starting February 27, the new exclusive “Gods Pack: Freyr,” the “Legacy Deity Portraits Pack,” the first expansion “Immortal Pillars,” and a second expansion to be announced.

With its rich mythological universe and enhanced gameplay, Age of Mythology: Retold promises to be an epic and innovative experience for both old and new players. Whether you’re a fan of the original game or new to the series, this remaster offers endless strategic battles and a fresh twist on the beloved franchise

Business, Gaming, News, Xbox

How Microsoft and Xbox are doing reaching the half of fiscal year 2025?

Microsoft recently released its FY25 Q2 earnings report, revealing a mixed bag of results. The company posted a revenue of $69.6 billion, a 12% increase year-over-year. Net income also saw a significant rise, reaching $24.11 billion compared to $21.87 billion in the same quarter last year. The growth was primarily driven by the Intelligent Cloud segment, which saw a 20% increase in revenue to $25.76 billion.

Microsoft Gaming: A Closer Look

Microsoft Gaming, a division established in 2022, has become a major player in the gaming industry. The division oversees the production and sales of Xbox hardware, Xbox Game Studios, and services like Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Cloud Gaming. With the acquisition of Activision Blizzard, Microsoft Gaming now owns some of the most popular and highest-grossing media franchises, including Call of Duty, Candy Crush, Warcraft, Halo, Minecraft, and The Elder Scrolls.

Key Highlights from Microsoft Gaming’s Performance

  1. Revenue Decline in Xbox Hardware: Despite the overall growth, Xbox hardware revenue saw a steep decline of 29% compared to the previous quarter. This decline is notable as it includes data over the holiday period, typically a strong sales period for gaming hardware.
  2. Growth in Xbox Content and Services: On a positive note, Xbox content and services revenue, which includes Xbox Game Pass, grew by 2% over the quarter. This growth was likely bolstered by popular titles like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle and continued support for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.
  3. Publishing on Competing Platforms: Microsoft’s strategy of publishing its first-party titles on competing platforms like PlayStation and Nintendo has been a significant factor in the growth of Xbox services. Titles like Doom: The Dark Ages and The Outer Worlds 2 are expected to be released on PlayStation simultaneously.
  4. Integration with Handheld PCs: Microsoft is working on integrating the Xbox and Windows gaming experience on handheld PCs, which may include improved integration of the Windows Store and PC Game Pass.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and CFO Amy Hood have expressed optimism about the future of Microsoft Gaming. They expect Xbox content and services revenue growth to be in the low to mid-single digits, driven by first-party content and Xbox Game Pass. The company is also focusing on cost efficiency and innovation in AI infrastructure, which could further boost its gaming division.

Elsewhere for Microsoft

Intelligent Cloud Segment

  • Revenue: $25.76 billion, up 20% year-over-year.
  • Azure Growth: Azure and other cloud services revenue grew by 31%, although this was slightly lower than the 33% growth seen in the previous quarter.
  • AI Investments: Microsoft is heavily investing in AI infrastructure, committing to spend $80 billion this fiscal year. The company’s AI business has surpassed an annual revenue run rate of $13 billion, up 175% year-over-year.

Productivity and Business Processes

  • Revenue: $29.4 billion, up 14% year-over-year.
  • Microsoft 365: Continued strong performance, with significant contributions from Microsoft 365 Copilot and other productivity tools.

More Personal Computing

  • Revenue: $14.7 billion, relatively unchanged from the previous year.
  • Windows PC Sales: There was a notable increase in Windows PC sales, driven by demand for new hardware and upgrades.
  • Xbox Services: Despite a decline in Xbox hardware revenue, Xbox content and services revenue grew by 2%, supported by titles like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.

Financial Highlights

  • Total Revenue: $69.6 billion, a 12% increase year-over-year.
  • Net Income: $24.11 billion, up from $21.87 billion in the same quarter last year.
  • Earnings Per Share (EPS): $3.23, beating expectations of $3.11.

Strategic Initiatives

  • AI Infrastructure: Microsoft is focusing on cost efficiency and innovation in AI infrastructure, including investments in small language models (SLMs) to reduce AI costs.
  • OpenAI Partnership: Microsoft and OpenAI have a new agreement through 2030, giving Microsoft access to OpenAI’s intellectual property and APIs for use within Copilot.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)

  • ESG Commitments: Microsoft continues to invest in sustainability and social responsibility initiatives, aiming to balance operational discipline with environmental and social practices.

Microsoft’s FY25 Q2 earnings report showcases the company’s continued growth and strategic investments in key areas like cloud computing and gaming. While there are challenges, particularly in Xbox hardware revenue, the overall outlook remains positive, especially with the strong performance of Xbox content and services. Microsoft Gaming, with its diverse portfolio and strategic initiatives, is poised to play a crucial role in the company’s future success.

Games, Gaming, Xbox

Baldur’s Gate 3 for Xbox Series S gains Split-Screen Mode

he gaming world is abuzz with excitement as Baldur’s Gate 3 makes its way to the Xbox Series S, now featuring the long-awaited split-screen co-op mode. This release comes along with Patch 8, which introduces cross-play functionality and various other enhancements, significantly enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Baldur’s Gate 3’s split-screen mode transforms the gaming experience, allowing players to engage in dynamic co-op play. Whether it’s battling fierce enemies, solving intricate puzzles, or unraveling complex storylines, sharing the screen with a friend heightens the excitement. This feature doesn’t just boost the gaming experience; it also fosters a spirit of collaboration and strategic planning.

Bringing split-screen mode to the Xbox Series S was no small feat. The mandate for games to maintain feature parity between the high-performing Xbox Series X and the more budget-friendly Series S posed significant challenges for developers. The Series X, with its robust hardware, could handle resource-heavy features like split-screen seamlessly. In contrast, the Series S, with its less powerful specs, required considerable optimization.

Larian Studios, the developers of Baldur’s Gate 3, encountered numerous technical hurdles. Ensuring the game ran smoothly on the Series S involved addressing lower graphical output and maintaining a steady frame rate. Achieving seamless drop-in, drop-out co-op play demanded innovative solutions and significant optimization efforts.

Xbox Series S Split-Screen Co-Op

Wanting to play multiplayer a little closer to home? Patch 8 will also bring split-screen to Xbox Series S consoles! If you’re joining the stress test from an Xbox, you’ll be able to try this out early.

Phil Spencer, the head of Xbox, acknowledged the challenges developers like Larian faced during the game’s development. Despite hurdles, Spencer emphasized the importance of making high-quality games accessible on both platforms, ensuring budget-friendly consoles like the Series S didn’t limit players’ experiences.

While the inclusion of split-screen on the Series S is a significant win, it raises broader questions about the long-term feasibility of maintaining feature parity across different console models. Some industry experts argue that the technical limitations of the Series S might constrain the full potential of future games. As developers continue to balance creating optimized experiences for both consoles without sacrificing quality, this debate is likely to persist.

The addition of split-screen mode on the Xbox Series S in Baldur’s Gate 3 marks a noteworthy achievement for Larian Studios. It highlights their dedication to providing inclusive gaming experiences while showcasing the ongoing challenges in developing for diverse hardware specifications. The successful integration of split-screen co-op on a budget-friendly console like the Series S is a significant step forward, ensuring that all players can enjoy the rich, cooperative experience of Baldur’s Gate 3.

Register For The Patch 8 Stress Test

The stress test is now live, and if you’ve already registered on either PlayStation or PC, access details will be sent to your email inbox. If you’re playing on Xbox, you’ll need to download the Xbox Insider Hub App to become an Xbox Insider and join the playtest from the app.

As the gaming industry evolves, developers will need to find innovative solutions to these challenges, continually delivering exceptional player experiences across all platforms. The story of Baldur’s Gate 3 on the Xbox Series S is a testament to the resilience and creativity of game developers, paving the way for future advancements in the world of gaming.

Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

People Can Fly confirms being co-developing Gears of War: E-Day

In exciting news for the gaming world, People Can Fly confirmed that they are working with Xbox Game Studios’s The Coalition as co-developers for the highly anticipated shooter game, Gears of War: E-Day. This prequel aims to immerse players in the epic saga of the Gears universe, taking them back to the fateful event of Emergence Day.

For long-time fans, this collaboration should see this delightful reunion, as People Can Fly has a rich history with the Gears of War franchise. Known for their previous work on Gears of War: Judgment, as well as co-developing Gears of War 1-3, they bring a wealth of experience and passion to the project.

The Coalition, which has been the driving force behind the series since Gears of War 4, is excited about this partnership. Mike Crump, Studio Head at The Coalition, expressed his enthusiasm, stating:

We’re pleased to be partnering with the talented folks at People Can Fly who have been a part of our franchise’s legacy for so long.

The teams aim to combine their strengths to deliver an intense and authentic experience that fans have come to cherish.

While details about the game remain under wraps, fans can expect to witness iconic characters like Marcus Fenix and Dom Santiago as they navigate the horrors of Emergence Day. With state-of-the-art graphics powered by Unreal Engine 5, Gears of War: E-Day promises to exceed the expectations of both veteran players and newcomers alike.

The collaboration between People Can Fly and The Coalition heralds a thrilling chapter in the Gears of War series. As the development teams work tirelessly to bring this prequel to life, fans eagerly await the day when they can relive the harrowing events of Emergence Day. Stay tuned for more updates and prepare to embark on another unforgettable journey in the world of Gears of War.

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo, Playstation, Xbox

Microsoft & Xbox will double down on more Xbox games on other platforms

Phil Spencer confirmed that more Xbox games will become available on other platforms, including PlayStation in his first major interview for 2025 with Gamertag Radio. He emphasized that they want to make great games accessible to as many people as possible, without putting up barriers.

This move is part of Xbox’s strategy to ensure that their games reach a wider audience.

When asked why gamers should buy an Xbox console, the Microsoft Gaming CEO highlighted the unique capabilities and features of Xbox hardware. He stressed that they want their hardware to stand out based on its merits and not just exclusive games. Phil Spencer wants people to choose Xbox hardware based on its capabilities and the choices they want to make about where they want to play.

The head of Microsoft’s gaming business did share his vision for the future of Xbox, mentioning upcoming titles like Avowed, DOOM: The Dark Ages, South of Midnight, The Outer Worlds 2, and possibly Fable. He also mentioned that Xbox Games Publishing is working on Ninja Gaiden 4, aiming to bring the franchise back to its former glory.

Finally, Spencer reflected on his legacy and the impact he hopes to have on the gaming industry and also, he talked about his passion for gaming and his commitment to innovation and inclusivity in the gaming community. Phil emphasized that he wants to leave a positive mark on the industry and continue to push for new and exciting gaming experiences.

There are insisting rumors that the “silence on Nintendo” at this interview, is because Xbox actually has plans on the brand be involved with Nintendo Switch 2 with surprising launches and Phil Spencer hasn’t been shy on expressing excitement for the Nintendo Switch 2 and his commitment to supporting the console with Xbox games has already gone outside the implicit.

The noise in the rumors mill suggests that we are inbound for an historical Nintendo Switch 2 port of Halo: The Master Chief along with Microsoft Flight Simulator, Starfield, Diablo 4 and Fallout 4.