Tag Archives: Microsoft

Events, Featured, Gaming, News, Xbox

Xbox Games Showcase 2025: Charting the Future of Interactive Entertainment

The Xbox Games Showcase 2025 was nothing short of a revolutionary experience—a spectacle that pulled back the curtain on an exhilarating future for gamers. With a lineup that spanned blockbuster franchises, indie marvels, and groundbreaking hardware innovations, this year’s showcase proved that Xbox is not just evolving but completely redefining what it means to play. The event’s electrifying array of announcements resonated with gamers around the globe, setting the stage for unprecedented immersion and connectivity in every gaming experience.

Blockbuster Franchises and Unforgettable Narratives

The showcase opened the floodgates to some monumental revelations in the realm of AAA gaming. A cinematic trailer for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 delivered a wave of nostalgia with artfully layered callbacks while promising a bold reimagination of its alternate history narrative. Equally compelling were the teasers for The Outer Worlds 2 and Grounded 2, each offering hints of expansive universes, enriched character stories, and innovative gameplay mechanics. From intense action sequences to deep narrative experiences, these announcements reaffirmed Xbox’s commitment to continually elevating the standards of interactive entertainment.

Indie Ingenuity and Genre-Defying Surprises

In a truly audacious twist, the showcase introduced us to a title that defies conventional categorization: There Are No Ghosts At the Grand. This ambitious project from Friday Sundae blends home renovation with supernatural mystery and a dash of British musical flair. By day, players immerse themselves in restoring a dilapidated seaside hotel using magical power tools—complete with eccentric NPCs, including a talking cat named Mr. Bones the Bastard belting out punk and ska tunes. But as darkness descends, the game seamlessly transforms into a high-stakes horror experience where every tool becomes a weapon against spectral forces. This genre mash-up is a testament to daring creativity, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay in fresh, unexpected ways.

Reimagining Classics and Embracing the New

A key highlight of the event was the innovative approach to reimagining cherished franchises alongside entirely new intellectual properties. Announcements including Persona 4 Revival and playful nods to indie favorites like Super Meat Boy 3D and Resonance: A Plague Legacy showcased Xbox’s dedication to story evolution and gameplay innovation. The teasers and gameplay reveals painted a picture of futures where legacy and forward-thinking design coexist harmoniously, ensuring that fans both old and new find something to ignite their passion.

Revolutionary Hardware: ROG Xbox Ally & ROG Xbox Ally X

Beyond the dazzling game announcements, Xbox Games Showcase 2025 also heralded a major leap in portable gaming with the introduction of the ROG Xbox Ally and its variant, the ROG Xbox Ally X. Slated for a holiday 2025 release, these handheld gaming PCs promise to deliver the full spectrum of Xbox games on the go—merging console-quality performance with the flexibility of a PC. Integrated seamlessly with Xbox Play Anywhere, these devices allow gamers to transfer progress and achievements effortlessly between console, PC, and mobile gaming. The table below captures the essence of these exciting devices:

DeviceRelease DateKey Features
ROG Xbox AllyHoliday 2025Handheld gaming PC; full Xbox Play Anywhere; integrated access to console and PC game libraries
ROG Xbox Ally XHoliday 2025Enhanced variant with potential turbocharged performance and optimized immersive gameplay

This innovative hardware underscores Xbox’s vision of a unified gaming ecosystem—one where the boundaries between devices dissolve, delivering an uncompromised experience wherever you play.

The Xbox Play Anywhere Revolution

At the heart of the showcase was a clear, resounding theme: a commitment to putting players first. Every title, every hardware announcement, and every narrative twist reinforced the philosophy of Xbox Play Anywhere. This groundbreaking approach ensures that whether you’re playing on a console, a PC, or on the revolutionary new Xbox Ally devices, your progress and achievements remain seamlessly unified. Such integration not only enhances flexibility and convenience but also broadens the spectrum of what it means to be part of the Xbox community.

A Celebration of Legacy and a Vision for the Future

In a stirring closing address, Phil Spencer reminded everyone that the spirit of Xbox is as much about honoring its storied past as it is about innovating for the future. With the 25th anniversary on the horizon, tantalizing hints were dropped—a forthcoming new Fable reimagining, the next groundbreaking installment in the Forza series, and the epic return of a beloved classic from the early days of Xbox. This convergence of heritage and forward momentum illustrates the robust, player-centric vision that continues to make Xbox a leader in interactive entertainment.

Xbox Games Showcase 2025 has left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. From high-octane blockbusters to exquisitely crafted indie adventures, and from revolutionary hardware breakthroughs to the seamless integration of cross-platform gameplay, this year’s showcase has set the stage for a transformative era in gaming. It’s a clarion call to fans everywhere: the future is now, and it’s more vibrant, immersive, and interconnected than ever before.

As we digest these announcements and anticipate the upcoming releases, one can’t help but feel that we’re on the cusp of a new golden age of interactive entertainment. Whether you’re rallying behind the next Call of Duty epic or planning your renovation-horror adventure at The Grand, the journey ahead promises unforgettable experiences that push every boundary of imagination.

Keep an eye on this space for deep dives into upcoming game development trends, behind-the-scenes insights, and further exploration of how a seamless gaming ecosystem is redefining play in our everyday lives.

eSport, Events, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

HCS Dallas Open: OpTic Gaming’s second win in a row for the HCS Opens at 2025

The Halo Championship Series (HCS) continues to be a battleground for the best Halo players in the world, and the HCS Dallas Open was no exception. OpTic Gaming emerged victorious, solidifying their dominance in the competitive Halo scene. Their performance was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing strategic gameplay, precise shooting, and unmatched teamwork.

OpTic Gaming’s Victory at HCS Dallas Open

OpTic Gaming’s journey to the top was marked by intense matches against formidable opponents. Their ability to adapt to different playstyles and execute flawless strategies set them apart. Some key highlights from their performance include:

  • Clutch Plays: OpTic Gaming’s players delivered incredible moments, turning the tide of matches with well-timed power weapon grabs and coordinated team pushes.
  • Strategic Map Control: Their ability to dominate key areas of the map ensured they maintained control over objectives and dictated the pace of the game.
  • Individual Brilliance: Players like Lucid and Trippy showcased their mechanical skills, landing crucial kills and making game-changing plays.

Basically, the tournament was a comfortable one for OpTic Gaming as they beat Shopify Rebellion and TSM without a single map loss and FaZe Clan where the ones to beat in the grand final.

With a successful force of a reset after scoring of 4-1 and a laser-focus gameplay, they manage to have a perfect 4-0 after reset and nailing the HCS Open Dallas 2025 Trophy.

Next stop for HCS is HCS Major Salt Lake City 2025 at August 1st’s weekend and preceded respectively by HCS Open & Qualifier between Jun and July

Breaking, Games, Gaming, Mobile, News, Xbox

Microsoft: “Is Apple’s fault we couldn’t release our Xbox Mobile Store”

Microsoft has formally accused Apple of obstructing the launch of its Xbox mobile web store, initially planned for July 2024. In a court filing on May 21, 2025, Microsoft stated that its efforts have been “stymied by Apple”. This legal battle is unfolding as part of Epic Games’ ongoing fight against Apple’s App Store policies, with Microsoft submitting an amicus brief to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in support of Epic.

The dispute highlights broader concerns about Apple’s control over mobile gaming and app distribution, echoing past struggles faced by cloud gaming services like Project xCloud and Google Stadia on iOS.

The Xbox Mobile Store Delay

Microsoft’s frustration stems from Apple’s restrictive App Store policies, particularly its anti-steering rules, which prevent developers from directing users to payment options outside Apple’s proprietary system. These rules have historically been a major point of contention, as they allow Apple to maintain its commission structure while limiting developers’ ability to offer alternative payment methods.

A pivotal moment in this legal battle came on April 30, 2025, when U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that Apple had violated a 2021 anti-steering injunction. The ruling explicitly forbids Apple from levying commissions on purchases made through external links from U.S. App Store apps and prevents restrictions on how developers communicate these alternatives. Microsoft argues that Apple’s continued enforcement of these policies has stifled innovation and prevented the company from launching its Xbox mobile store as planned.

Microsoft’s ambitions extend beyond just a web store. The company has long sought to enable Xbox app users on iOS to purchase and stream games directly within the app, an effort repeatedly blocked by Apple’s policies. Even after Microsoft enabled game purchases in its Xbox mobile app on iOS last month, it had to remove the remote play feature to comply with Apple’s App Store rules.

Project xCloud’s Struggles on iOS

Microsoft’s battle with Apple is not new. The company faced similar challenges when launching Project xCloud, its cloud gaming service, on iOS. Initially, Microsoft planned to bring xCloud to iPhones and iPads, allowing users to stream Xbox games directly from the cloud. However, Apple’s App Store policies severely limited the service’s functionality.

In February 2020, Microsoft launched a limited beta for Project xCloud on iOS through Apple’s TestFlight program. Unlike the Android version, which supported multiple games, the iOS beta was restricted to just one title—Halo: The Master Chief Collection. Apple’s policies prevented Microsoft from offering a broader selection of games, citing concerns over app review processes and content moderation. Ultimately, Microsoft was forced to abandon its plans for a full xCloud rollout on iOS, instead directing users to access the service via a web browser.

Stadia’s Similar Struggles

Back when it was on full throttle, Google’s Stadia cloud gaming service faced nearly identical obstacles on iOS. Stadia was designed to allow users to stream games directly from Google’s servers, bypassing the need for powerful local hardware. However, Apple’s App Store policies prevented Google from launching a dedicated Stadia app with full functionality.

Instead, Google had to rely on a web-based workaround, allowing users to access Stadia through Safari rather than a native app. This approach introduced technical limitations and a less seamless user experience compared to the Android version. Additionally, Stadia players on iOS encountered connectivity issues, particularly after upgrading to iOS 15.

Some users reported that Stadia would not function properly on mobile data, requiring adjustments to Safari’s experimental settings to restore functionality.

The Return of Fortnite and Its Impact

The recent return of Fortnite to the iOS App Store marks a significant shift in the ongoing battle between developers and Apple. After nearly five years of absence, Fortnite was reinstated following a court ruling on April 30, 2025, which found Apple had violated antitrust laws. The ruling forced Apple to allow developers to link to external payment systems, a major victory for Epic Games and other companies seeking greater flexibility in monetization.

Fortnite’s return could set a precedent for Microsoft’s Xbox mobile store ambitions. Epic Games has already begun promoting alternative payment methods within Fortnite, offering players incentives to purchase in-game currency through the Epic Games Store rather than Apple’s in-app system. If Microsoft follows a similar strategy, it could bypass Apple’s restrictions and finally launch its Xbox mobile store via a web-based platform.

Microsoft’s legal battle with Apple is part of a broader industry movement pushing for greater developer freedom on mobile platforms. The struggles faced by Project xCloud and Stadia on iOS illustrate the challenges of launching cloud gaming services under Apple’s restrictive policies. However, Fortnite’s return to iOS signals a potential shift in the power dynamics between Apple and developers.

If Microsoft succeeds in its legal challenge, it could pave the way for a more open mobile gaming ecosystem, allowing Xbox users to purchase and stream games without Apple’s intervention. The outcome of this case will not only shape the future of the Xbox mobile store but also influence how developers approach app distribution and monetization on iOS.

Business, Gaming, News, Xbox

The FTC loses appeal to be granted a injunction against Microsoft & ABK but, is a Game Over?

After nearly two years of legal battles, regulatory hurdles, and intense scrutiny, Microsoft has emerged victorious in its fight to acquire Activision Blizzard. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which had been one of the most vocal opponents of the deal, recently lost its appeal against an injunction that sought to block the acquisition. This marks the definitive end of the FTC’s legal challenge and clears the path for Microsoft to fully integrate Activision Blizzard into its gaming empire.

Microsoft’s $68.7 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard was announced in January 2022, sending shockwaves through the gaming industry. The deal promised to bring some of the most iconic gaming franchises—such as Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, and Diablo—under Microsoft’s umbrella. However, regulators worldwide raised concerns about potential anti-competitive practices, particularly regarding Microsoft’s control over cloud gaming, subscription services, and console exclusivity.

The FTC was one of the most aggressive challengers to the deal. It argued that Microsoft’s ownership of Activision Blizzard could lead to unfair market advantages, such as making Call of Duty exclusive to Xbox or degrading its quality on rival platforms like PlayStation. The agency sought a preliminary injunction to halt the acquisition while it pursued further legal action.

The Legal Struggle: Microsoft vs. The FTC

In July 2023, Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley of the Northern District of California ruled against the FTC’s request for a preliminary injunction, stating that the agency had failed to prove that the merger would substantially lessen competition. The FTC then appealed the decision to the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, hoping to overturn the ruling and extend the temporary restraining order preventing Microsoft from closing the deal.

However, the appellate court unanimously ruled in favor of Microsoft, affirming that the district court had applied the correct legal standards in its decision. The judges found that the FTC had not sufficiently demonstrated that Microsoft would foreclose competition in the console, subscription, or cloud gaming markets. They also noted that Activision Blizzard had historically resisted putting its games on subscription services, meaning that Microsoft’s acquisition would actually introduce new content to that market rather than restrict it.

The Fallout: What This Means for Gaming

With the FTC’s appeal denied, Microsoft is now free to finalize its acquisition of Activision Blizzard in the U.S. The company had already secured approvals from regulators in the European Union, Japan, and Brazil, leaving the FTC and the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) as the last major obstacles. While the CMA initially blocked the deal, Microsoft later reached an agreement with the UK regulator, allowing the acquisition to proceed.

Interestingly, Microsoft’s post-acquisition strategy has defied expectations. Instead of making Call of Duty exclusive to Xbox, the company has embraced a multiplatform approach, bringing its games to PlayStation and even Nintendo consoles. This shift suggests that Microsoft is prioritizing broader accessibility and revenue generation over exclusivity.

The FTC’s loss in court marks the end of a long and contentious battle over Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard. While the agency had legitimate concerns about market competition, the courts ultimately found that the merger would not substantially harm consumers or rival companies. As Microsoft moves forward with integrating Activision Blizzard, the gaming industry will be watching closely to see how this historic deal reshapes the landscape.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Microsoft’s Xbox Price Hike: Market Pressures, Earnings, and Nintendo’s Influence

Microsoft has announced a significant price increase across its Xbox product line, affecting consoles, controllers, headsets, and even future first-party games. The decision, which takes effect immediately, comes amid rising development costs and shifting market conditions.

The price hikes impact various Xbox models and accessories, with some seeing increases of up to 27%. Here are some of the key adjustments:

  • Xbox Series S 512GB – $379.99 (was $299.99)
  • Xbox Series S 1TB – $429.99 (was $349.99)
  • Xbox Series X Digital – $549.99 (was $449.99)
  • Xbox Series X – $599.99 (was $499.99)
  • Xbox Series X 2TB Galaxy Special Edition $729.99 (was $599.99)
  • Xbox Wireless Controller (Core) – $64.99 (no increase)
  • Xbox Wireless Controller (Color) – $69.99 (no increase)
  • Xbox Wireless Controller – Special Edition – $79.99 (no increase)
  • Xbox Wireless Controller – Limited Edition – $89.99 (was $79.99)
  • Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Core) – $149.99 (was $139.99)
  • Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Full) – $199.99 (was $179.99)
  • Xbox Stereo Headset -$64.99 (no increase)
  • Xbox Wireless Headset – $119.99 (was $109.99)

Additionally, Microsoft confirmed that new first-party Xbox games will be priced at $79.99 starting this holiday season.

Microsoft’s latest earnings report highlighted strong performance in its gaming division, but also pointed to increasing costs in game development and hardware production. The company cited global economic pressures, including tariffs and supply chain disruptions, as key factors behind the price adjustments.

Despite these challenges, Microsoft remains committed to expanding its gaming ecosystem, emphasizing cloud gaming and cross-platform accessibility. The company’s statement reassured players that it is focused on delivering value while adapting to market realities.

Overall Financial Performance

  • Total Revenue: $64.7 billion (+15% YoY)
  • Operating Income: $27.9 billion (+15%)
  • Net Income: $22.0 billion (+10%)
  • Diluted Earnings Per Share (EPS): $2.95 (+10%)
  • Microsoft Cloud Revenue: $36.8 billion (+21%)

Gaming Revenue Breakdown

The Xbox sector experienced significant growth in Q4, powered by acquisitions and game content sales:

  • Total Gaming Revenue: $6.4 billion (+61% YoY)
  • Xbox Content & Services: $5.2 billion (+68%), primarily driven by Activision Blizzard revenue
  • Xbox Hardware Revenue: $1.2 billion (+42%), following price adjustments and strong console sales

Key Drivers Behind Gaming Growth

  1. Activision Blizzard Impact
    • Microsoft completed the acquisition of Activision Blizzard, leading to increased gaming revenue.
    • Titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III and Diablo IV contributed significantly to Xbox content sales.
  2. Game Pass Expansion
    • Subscribers exceeded 33 million, signaling continued engagement in Microsoft’s subscription model.
    • First-party titles gained momentum, with Starfield, Forza Motorsport, and Minecraft Legends driving engagement.
  3. Hardware Price Adjustments
    • The Xbox Series X/S saw sales growth despite the announced price increases.
    • Premium editions and bundles performed better than anticipated.

Microsoft’s revenue growth in gaming aligns with broader industry trends. While competing with Sony’s PlayStation and Nintendo’s Switch, Microsoft’s investment in cloud gaming, Game Pass, and major acquisitions has positioned Xbox favorably for future expansion.

Nintendo’s Indirect Role

Interestingly, Microsoft’s price hike follows a similar move by Nintendo, which recently raised the price of select games to $79.99. While Nintendo has not increased console prices, its decision to adjust accessory costs due to market conditions may have influenced Microsoft’s strategy.

Nintendo’s pricing shift set a precedent, signaling that higher game prices could become the industry standard. Microsoft’s move aligns with this trend, ensuring its pricing remains competitive while addressing rising production costs.

Microsoft’s decision to raise Xbox prices reflects broader industry trends and economic pressures. While the increases may frustrate some gamers, they underscore the evolving landscape of console gaming, where companies must balance affordability with sustainability.

With Nintendo’s pricing adjustments setting the stage, Microsoft’s move suggests that higher costs may become the norm across the gaming industry. Whether other companies follow suit remains to be seen, but for now, Xbox players will need to prepare for a more expensive gaming experience.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

LG Smart TV are the New Xbox – Literally

Microsoft’s Xbox Cloud Gaming continues to expand its reach, and its latest move brings the cloud-based service directly to LG Smart TVs and monitors running webOS24 or later. This development allows users to play Xbox games without needing an actual Xbox console, unlocking new possibilities for casual and hardcore gamers alike.

Microsoft has officially launched Xbox Cloud Gaming on select LG Smart TVs, allowing users to stream Xbox games without needing a console. The rollout includes 2022 OLED TVs, select 2023 LG Smart TVs, and newer models, as well as smart monitors running webOS24 or later versions.

If your LG Smart TV falls within this list, you can now stream Xbox games effortlessly, provided you have an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription.

What You Need to Play

To jump into Xbox Cloud Gaming on your LG Smart TV, you’ll need:

  1. An Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription – This gives access to hundreds of cloud-compatible games.
  2. A Bluetooth-enabled wireless controller – Supported controllers include:
    • Xbox Wireless Controller
    • Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
    • Xbox Adaptive Controller
    • PS5 DualSense controller

Once everything is set up, simply open the Xbox app on your LG Smart TV, sign in, and start playing!

Microsoft’s expansion into LG Smart TVs is part of its broader “This is an Xbox” campaign, aiming to highlight how Xbox gaming is no longer limited to traditional consoles. Players can now enjoy cloud gaming on devices like smart TVs, handheld gaming systems, and even web browsers, removing barriers to entry for next-generation gaming.

Additionally, the company has now opened up “stream your own game” functionality to all Game Pass Ultimate users, allowing them to stream select games from their own libraries instead of relying solely on Game Pass titles. This also means Xbox One users can play Xbox Series X/S games through cloud streaming, enhancing accessibility and cross-generation gaming.

Microsoft’s efforts in expanding cloud gaming suggest a future where physical consoles might become optional rather than essential. As TVs, monitors, and other smart devices integrate cloud gaming features, gaming might become more fluid, accessible, and device-agnostic than ever before.

With LG joining the cloud gaming revolution, we might see even more brands and platforms adopting Xbox Cloud Gaming, further pushing the boundaries of modern gaming convenience.

Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered – A Legendary Return

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, originally released in 2006, was a groundbreaking RPG that set new standards for open-world exploration, storytelling, and player freedom. Now, nearly two decades later, Bethesda Game Studios has officially launched The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, bringing the beloved classic into the modern era with stunning visuals, refined gameplay, and a host of quality-of-life improvements.

The Legacy of Oblivion

Oblivion was a defining moment in gaming history. It introduced players to the vast and immersive world of Cyrodiil, where they could forge their own path as warriors, mages, thieves, or diplomats. The game’s Radiant AI system allowed NPCs to live dynamic lives, making the world feel alive in a way few games had achieved before. The gripping main quest, which saw players battling against the forces of Mehrunes Dagon and his Oblivion gates, remains one of the most memorable narratives in RPG history.

The Remaster – What’s New?

Bethesda, in collaboration with remaster specialists Virtuos, has meticulously rebuilt Oblivion using Unreal Engine 5, delivering breathtaking landscapes, enhanced character models, and improved animations. Here’s what players can expect:

  • 4K resolution and 60 FPS performance
  • Revamped textures, lighting effects, and weather systems
  • Improved enemy scaling and combat mechanics
  • Enhanced accessibility features
  • Updated UI for persuasion, clairvoyance, and other mechanics
  • Expanded autosave functionality
  • Refined first-person and third-person camera perspectives

Additionally, the remaster includes the Knights of the Nine and Shivering Isles expansions, ensuring players experience the full breadth of Oblivion’s legendary content.

Bethesda has embraced the nostalgia of long-time fans while ensuring that new players can experience Oblivion in its best possible form. The remaster retains the core gameplay that made the original so beloved while modernizing its visuals and mechanics to meet today’s standards.

For those who remember stepping out of the Imperial City’s sewers for the first time, seeing Cyrodiil in its remastered glory is nothing short of magical. The mist-covered mountains, shimmering lakes, and towering cities have been meticulously recreated, making every moment of exploration feel fresh and awe-inspiring.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is available on Xbox Series X|S, PC (via Steam and the Xbox App), cloud gaming, and PlayStation 5. It’s also included day one with Game Pass, allowing subscribers to dive into Cyrodiil without additional cost.

For those seeking the ultimate experience, the Deluxe Edition offers exclusive quests, weapons, armor sets, and a digital artbook and soundtrack app.

Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Xbox capacity of letting you buy games via mobile app is closer than ever

One of the promises that Microsoft claimed during the Preliminary Injunction against the purchase of Activision Blizzard King was to actually developing a mobile store and while it has been a GREAT WHILE about news regarding of this, Xbox is really close to make it a reality.

Microsoft announced that soon, you will be able to buy games and add-on content, join Game Pass, and redeem Perks directly from the Xbox app on mobile along with Xbox Console gameplay streaming.

We’re excited to announce that one of the most requested features from the Xbox community is coming to the Xbox app. Players will soon be able to buy games and add-on content, join Game Pass, and redeem Perks directly from the Xbox app on mobile. Be ready to play on day one by pre-ordering games like Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 and then set it to pre-install on Xbox consoles from the app. Buy games like Assassin’s Creed Shadows and MLB The Show 25. Players will also be able to join Game Pass directly from the Xbox app. Ultimate members can redeem Perks like the Sea of Thieves Seventh Serving Emote directly from the app.

This experience will start to roll out to beta users on iOS and Android and will be available soon for everyone on the Google Play Store on Android devices and the Apple Store.

It is speculated that while the internal store will go live, Microsoft is taking time with the capacity of playing the games with your iOS and Android device while attending the final stretch of the legal standing of Google on opening more its policy about 3rd party stores.

Game you own, game that you can play anywhere

One of the biggest promise that Microsoft had with Xbox Game Pass, mainly Game Pass Ultimate user, is that any game that you truly own because you paid for should be appearing in your Game Pass Cloud library.

In other words, gamer will be able to stream select games they own in addition to the Game Pass catalog on their Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles and Microsoft claims that over 100 games and expect to more games to join the catalog in near future. 

This update aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy to enhance accessibility and player-centric experiences, but the mobile store initiative might still be in development or part of future updates.

While it is an incredible feat, it appears that this doesn’t seem to be the promised mobile store that Microsoft discussed during the Activision Blizzard Preliminary Injunction hearings. During those hearings, Microsoft emphasized its plans to create a competitive mobile gaming store to challenge existing platforms.

Finally, in a minor update of Xbox ecosystem for April, expect a new feature on the game hub, where Xbox pulls up “relevant information” about a game, such as player stats, achievements, friends currently playing the game, events, and available add-ons.

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo, Xbox

Microsoft Gaming CEO is a Nintendo Switch 2 believer

Phil Spencer, the head of Xbox, has recently reiterated his enthusiastic support for Nintendo’s highly anticipated Switch 2 console, showcasing the deepening collaboration between the two gaming giants. Here’s a comprehensive look into the key points of his statements and their implications for the gaming industry

Is not a secret neither a unknown fact that Spencer has always expressed admiration for Nintendo’s innovation and role in shaping the gaming landscape. His recent comments highlight the strategic importance of the partnership between Xbox and Nintendo. This alliance allows Xbox to extend its reach to audiences who may not primarily engage with PC or Xbox platforms, aligning with Microsoft’s broader vision of accessibility in gaming.

A key element of Spencer’s vision is to bring Xbox experiences to as many platforms as possible. For the Switch 2, this includes plans to bring Xbox franchises like Diablo 4, Halo: The Master Chief Collection, and Microsoft Flight Simulator to the console. Notably, Activision, under Microsoft’s umbrella, is also committed to releasing Call of Duty titles on the Switch 2, further solidifying this cross-platform integration.

This approach underscores Xbox’s strategy of creating a unified gaming ecosystem that transcends traditional hardware boundaries. Whether on cloud, PC, or consoles, Xbox aims to make its games and features widely accessible.

Nintendo’s Role in Innovation

Spencer’s comments reflect his respect for Nintendo’s ability to innovate and captivate diverse audiences. He described Nintendo as a “great partner” and expressed excitement about collaborating on the Switch 2. Spencer’s belief in Nintendo’s significance in the industry further cements the potential for groundbreaking developments as the two companies work together.

Speaking in a new interview with Variety, Spencer has reconfirmed about Microsoft Gaming and Xbox supporting Switch 2, stating that he was “a big believer in what Nintendo means for this industry”.

We’ve been supporting Switch 1, I want to support Switch 2. Nintendo has been a great partner. We think it is a unique way for us to reach players who aren’t PC players, who aren’t players on Xbox. It lets us continue to grow our community of people that care about the franchises that we have, and that’s really important for us to make sure we continue to invest in our games.

I’m really a big believer in what Nintendo means for this industry and us continuing to support them. And getting the support from them for our franchises, I think, is an important part of our future.

Scheduled for a June 5, 2025 release, the Switch 2 represents a significant opportunity for Xbox to connect with new audiences. Spencer emphasized that the collaboration with Nintendo aligns with Xbox’s mission to build a community of players across platforms, leveraging the popularity and reach of Nintendo’s hardware.

The partnership between Xbox and Nintendo signals a shift towards greater collaboration and inclusivity in the gaming industry. By working together, the two companies aim to deliver high-quality gaming experiences to a wider audience, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming innovation.

In conclusion, Phil Spencer’s comments underline a strong commitment to the Xbox-Nintendo partnership, with the Switch 2 serving as a pivotal platform for this collaboration. As the June launch approaches, gamers can look forward to seeing how this partnership evolves and shapes the future of gaming.

Microsoft Gaming Chief Phil Spencer on ‘A Minecraft Movie’ Gamble, ‘Fallout’ Season 2 and Mixing Hollywood Pursuits With Xbox Biz Priorities
Microsoft Gaming’s Phil Spencer on “A Minecraft Movie,” ’Fallout” Season 2, and Xbox’s larger goals in Hollywood and gaming biz loyalty.
Source/Via
Games, Gaming, News, Xbox

Xbox Game Pass games for April 2025 announced (also games leaving)

Microsoft has unveiled the latest updates for Xbox Game Pass in April 2025, bringing an exciting mix of new titles and farewells to the subscription service. Here’s a detailed look at what’s happening:

New Additions

This month, Xbox Game Pass subscribers can look forward to a variety of games across different genres and platforms.

The following are the games and their arrival date:

  • Grand Theft Auto V – April 15
  • Neon White (Console) – April 16*
  • SpongeBob SquarePants: The Patrick Star Game (Cloud, Console, and PC) – April 16
  • Crime Scene Cleaner (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S) – April 17**
  • Tempopo (Cloud, Console, and PC) – April 17**
  • Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S) – April 24**
  • Towerborne (Game Preview) (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S) – April 29**
  • Far Cry 4 (Cloud, Console, and PC) – April 30
  • Anno 1800 (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S) – May 1
  • Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II (Cloud, Console, and PC) – May 1**
  • Dredge (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S) – May 6

* Only added to the Game Pass Standard tier | **Not included in the Xbox Game Pass Standard tier

Games Leaving the Service

As new games arrive, some titles will be departing Xbox Game Pass. Notable exits include:

  • Sniper Elite 5
  • Thirsty Suitors
  • The Last Case of Benedict Fox
  • Kona 2: Brume
  • The Rewinder
  • Have A Nice Death

Subscribers have until April 30 to enjoy these games, with a 20% discount available for those who wish to purchase them before they leave.

This mix of arrivals and departures ensures that Xbox Game Pass continues to offer a dynamic and ever-evolving library of games.