Tag Archives: Gaming News

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.

Featured, Games, Gaming, News

GOG wants you to help them deciding their next game to land the GOG Preservation Program

GOG, the renowned digital storefront known for its commitment to DRM-free gaming, has recently unveiled an exciting update to its platform: the Dreamlist. This revamped feature, previously known as the Community Wishlist, is designed to empower gamers to influence which classic games are brought back to life.

The Dreamlist serves as a community-driven tool where gamers can vote for their favorite games that they want to see available on GOG. It’s not just about nostalgia; it’s about preserving gaming history and making beloved titles accessible to new generations. Each game on the Dreamlist has its own dedicated page, complete with detailed descriptions, screenshots, and trailers. Gamers can also share their personal stories and memories associated with these games, adding a heartfelt touch to their votes.

How Does it Work?

GOG has made it incredibly easy for gamers to participate in the Dreamlist. The interface has been overhauled to provide enhanced browsing and filtering options, making it simple to find and vote for games. The Dreamlist also features a “Staff Picks” section, where GOG highlights games that they believe deserve attention.

This not only helps guide the community but also showcases GOG’s dedication to bringing quality games to its platform.

The Dreamlist has already proven its worth. One notable success story is the revival of Dino Crisis 1 and 2, which were brought back to life thanks to the overwhelming community support on the Dreamlist. These games were remastered to ensure compatibility with modern systems, preserving their original content while enhancing their playability.

Looking ahead, GOG has ambitious plans for the Dreamlist. Games like Freelancer, Resident Evil Code: Veronica X, and the original Final Fantasy VII are among the titles that GOG and its community are eager to see revived. The Dreamlist is not just a wishlist; it’s a powerful tool for gamers to influence the gaming industry and ensure that their favorite titles are not forgotten.

In an industry where many classic games are no longer available, GOG’s Dreamlist is a beacon of hope for game preservation. According to GOG, 87% of games released prior to 2010 are no longer accessible, making the Dreamlist an essential initiative for keeping gaming history alive. By voting on the Dreamlist, gamers are not only expressing their preferences but also contributing to the preservation of gaming culture.

GOG invites all gamers to explore the Dreamlist, cast their votes, and share their memories. Whether it’s a childhood favorite or a game you’ve always wanted to play DRM-free, your vote matters. Together, we can ensure that these classic games find a new home on GOG and continue to be enjoyed by gamers around the world.

And from my part… I made some votes already and I want to highlight this one:

DO NOT CHANGE MY MIND!!!

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, PC

Dino Crisis 1 and 2 are back thanks to gaming preservation efforts of GOG

Exciting news for survival horror fans! Capcom’s beloved Dino Crisis series has made a triumphant return to PC via GOG. Both Dino Crisis 1 and Dino Crisis 2 are now available DRM-free, meaning no activation or online connection is required to play. This is a dream come true for fans who have been eagerly waiting for these classics to be revived.

The new versions of Dino Crisis 1 and 2 come with several enhancements to ensure they run smoothly on modern systems. These include:

  • Increased resolution support, with the first game offering near 4K resolution.
  • Modern control support, making it easier to play with contemporary controllers.
  • Improved rendering and sound, providing a more immersive experience.
  • Fixes for common issues, ensuring a more stable gameplay.
  • Localization options, allowing players to enjoy the game in their preferred language.

GOG Preservation Program

The release of Dino Crisis 1 and 2 is part of GOG’s Preservation Program, an initiative aimed at keeping older games accessible and playable on modern hardware. This program involves updating and enhancing classic games to ensure they remain compatible with new PC systems. By providing DRM-free versions, GOG ensures that these games can be played without the need for an online connection, addressing a common complaint among gamers.

Game preservation is becoming increasingly important as the industry moves forward. According to GOG, 87% of games released prior to 2010 are no longer available, making initiatives like the Preservation Program crucial for keeping gaming history alive. By bringing back games like Dino Crisis, GOG not only honors the legacy of these titles but also provides new generations of gamers the opportunity to experience them.

Dino Crisis and Dino Crisis 2 will have an introductory price of $9.99 each, but as in the case of Resident Evil first 3 games collection, a bundle that includes both games will be available for $16.99.

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

About the Warhammer video game based on Age Of Sigmar that never was

Warhammer games have been a cornerstone of the gaming community, captivating players with their richly detailed worlds and intense strategic gameplay. However, not all projects see the light of day. Recently, a much-anticipated Warhammer game based on the Age of Sigmar universe was cancelled.

Here’s a deep dive into this ill-fated project as based on what the gaming studio Thought Pennies, revealed to Eurogamer.

In 2021, Games Workshop partnered with Nexon to create a groundbreaking new Warhammer RPG. This ambitious project promised a player-versus-environment (PvE) social multiplayer experience that would span PC, consoles, and mobile platforms. The game was set in the grim and perilous world of Age of Sigmar, where players would command war hosts of the God-King Sigmar against the relentless forces of the Chaos Gods.

Development was helmed by the fresh yet talented studio Thought Pennies. Nexon, known for its expertise in live operations and sustaining player engagement, provided a solid foundation for the game’s ongoing development. The collaboration seemed promising, with both parties eager to bring a dynamic and immersive Warhammer experience to life.

The game was envisioned as a narrative-rich RPG where players could customize their characters, forge alliances, and embark on epic quests. Each season, new realms and characters were to be introduced, offering players a steady stream of fresh content and stories. The ultimate goal: to reignite hope and restore order to the despoiled Mortal Realms.

Behind the Scenes

Despite the promising vision, all was not well behind the scenes. In late 2024, Nexon made a strategic decision to shift its focus, leading to the termination of the Age of Sigmar RPG project.

This decision was not taken lightly and resulted in significant layoffs at Thought Pennies. Nexon cited a strategic change as the reason behind this abrupt shift, and although the partnership had initially shown great promise, it ultimately could not withstand the new direction.

The cancellation of the Age of Sigmar RPG left many fans and developers heartbroken2. However, the world of Warhammer remains vibrant and ever-expanding. Games Workshop continues to explore new opportunities to bring their iconic universe to players worldwide.

As one door closes, another opens, and the dedication to Warhammer’s legacy endures.

Warhammer enthusiasts can still find solace in other titles such as Realms of Ruin, a real-time strategy game from Planet Coaster studio Frontier Developments, and Storm Ground, a turn-based strategy roguelike from Focus Entertainment. The age of Warhammer is far from over, and who knows what new adventures await in the Mortal Realms?

The cancelled Warhammer: Age of Sigmar RPG is a testament to the ever-changing and unpredictable nature of game development. While the project may never see the light of day, the passion and creativity that fueled its conception continue to inspire new ventures in the gaming world.

For fans and developers alike, the journey through the Warhammer universe is bound to be full of twists, turns, and endless possibilities.

Games, Gaming, News

WWE 2K25 is official starring Roman Reigns & The Undertaker

The spotlight casts its glow on Roman Reigns, the former undisputed WWE Universal Champion and the Original Tribal Chief, as the cover star of WWE 2K25. Fans can also look forward to special editions featuring The Undertaker in the nostalgic Deadman Edition, and various members of The Bloodline in their own unique edition.

This includes familiar faces such as Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, and Paul Heyman, promising a visually stunning and immersive representation of WWE’s reigning factions.

WWE 2K25 introduces the Bloodline Showcase, an interactive journey into the storied legacy of the Anoa’i wrestling family. This mode allows players to relive iconic moments and matchups, delving deeper into the history and impact of one of WWE’s most legendary lineages.

The game boasts a roster of over 300 WWE Superstars, Legends, and Hall of Famers. Whether you’re looking to step into the boots of John Cena, Rhea Ripley, or even The Rock, WWE 2K25 provides an extensive array of characters to choose from. The return of old favorites and the addition of new names ensure a dynamic and varied gameplay experience.

Exciting new match types and stipulations are also part of the package:

  • Underground Matches: Channel your inner fight club enthusiast.
  • Bloodline Rules Matches: Unique stipulations and surprises await.
  • Intergender Matchups: Break boundaries and choose your battles without limitations.

Also, WWE 2K25’s new mode The Island presents an open-world playground where ambition meets opportunity. Players can embark on a quest to earn a coveted WWE contract, engaging in quests, unique challenges, and online matches that bring the journey to life. Accompanied by the return of MyRISE, this game mode promises enthralling stories and exhilarating rises to stardom.

Release Dates

Mark your calendars! The highly anticipated Deadman Edition and Bloodline Edition are set for a worldwide release on March 7, 2025. For those opting for the Standard Edition, it will be available on March 14, 2025. These dates set the stage for fans to dive headfirst into new and exhilarating WWE experiences.

This latest installment comes with welcomed enhancements designed to elevate the gaming experience:

  • The much-awaited third-person camera support for online matches provides an immersive view of the action.
  • New brawl environments, including the WWE Archives and the NXT Parking Lot, where you can engage in fierce confrontations.

With these thrilling updates, WWE 2K25 promises an unmatched, action-packed gaming experience for wrestling fans everywhere.

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.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Rise of the Ronin highly anticipated PC version Set for March release

Koei Tecmo and Team Ninja have officially announced that their open-world action RPG, Rise of the Ronin, will be coming to PC on March 11th, 2025. Previously exclusive to PS5, this game immerses players in the Bakumatsu era of Japanese history, offering an open-world experience with a focus on combat and story-driven decisions.

The PC release will offer numerous enhancements to take full advantage of the hardware capabilities that many PC gamers have come to enjoy.

Here are some of the standout features:

  • 8K Resolution Support: The game will support stunningly detailed visuals to immerse you in the world of 19th-century Japan.
  • 120 Frames Per Second (FPS): For those with high-refresh-rate monitors, the game promises a buttery-smooth experience.
  • Ray Tracing Support: Immerse yourself in realistic lighting and shadows that elevate the visual fidelity of the game.
  • Ultra-wide and Super Ultra-wide Monitor Compatibility: Widen your field of view and take in more of the action with support for larger monitors.
  • 3D Audio Support: Experience the sounds of the Bakumatsu period with immersive 3D audio.
  • Customizable Controls: The PC version will feature customizable keyboard and mouse controls to suit your gaming style.
  • Support for Nvidia DLSS, AMD Fidelity FX Super Resolution, and Intel XeSS: These technologies will help improve performance and visual quality even on older PC hardware.

Set during Japan’s rapid modernization and internal conflicts in 1863, you play as a ronin forging your destiny amidst political unrest and war. Your choices significantly impact the storyline, allowing multiple endings.

You can check the PC reveal trailer on Steam and get early purchase bonuses like extra combat styles and a unique katana and armor set.

Those who purchase the PC version of Rise of Ronin before April 2nd, 2025, will receive special bonuses. These include four unique combat styles and an extra katana and armor set3. The combat styles being offered are Aisu Kage-ryu for the katana, Hayabusa-ryu for the katana, Hayabusa-ryu for the naginata, and Nioh-ryu for the katana. The Iga Ninja armor set and katana are additional bonuses for those who jump on this exciting release early3.

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.

Games, Gaming, News

Reason for the new delayed of Assassin’s Creed Shadows revealed

In the ever-expanding universe of Assassin’s Creed, each new installment is eagerly anticipated by fans worldwide. The latest in the series, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, has faced several delays, leaving fans anxiously waiting for its release.

Directed by Charles Benoit, the game promises to transport players to the mystical and complex world of feudal Japan, specifically, the intricate architecture of feudal Japan has posed unique challenges for the development team.

However, Benoit recently revealed the primary reason for the latest delay, pushing the release date to March 20, 2025.

As per an interview with IGN, Benoit explained that the Japanese roofs are the most complex structures he has ever worked with. These intricacies demanded specific codes and animations to ensure smooth and fluid transitions, an element crucial to the parkour mechanics that Assassin’s Creed is known for.

The Japanese architecture, the roofs [are] super complex.

Probably the most complex thing that I ever worked with if we compared to Odyssey and Syndicate. We needed specific codes and specific animations to support something super fluid, changing the transition of the parkour to make it even more fluid.

So that’s one of the specific feedback that we heard that we wanted to address, and it really improved since the last few months.

The decision to delay was heavily influenced by player feedback. The development team focused on making the parkour system feel more natural and responsive. Tweaking and balancing the progression, along with improving the overall gameplay experience, were top priorities. Benoit reassured fans that the story and design of the game have not been altered during this delay.

Benoit emphasized that the additional development time was essential to deliver a polished and enjoyable game. The team’s commitment to quality means ensuring that every aspect of the gameplay, from parkour to combat, is refined and balanced. This dedication to perfection is what fans of the series have come to expect, and Assassin’s Creed Shadows aims to meet those high expectations.

As the new release date approaches, excitement continues to build. The promise of exploring feudal Japan with enhanced parkour mechanics and a seamless gameplay experience is sure to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers to the series.

While delays can be disappointing, they often result in a superior final product, and Assassin’s Creed Shadows is poised to be a standout title in the franchise.

BTW, at my YouTube Channel, I mentioned about the recent developments at Ubisoft and also, offered a quick recap on what it is left for the so called Assassin’s Creed Infinity, please enjoy and support!