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.
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
In a surprising move and a new teaching of NEVER SAY NEVER, Microsoft has announced that Forza Horizon 5, the beloved open-world racing game, is coming to PlayStation 5 this Spring. Developed by Playground Games and Turn 10 Studios, with Panic Button handling the port, this marks a significant shift in Microsoft’s strategy as it embraces a multi-platform approach.
Forza Horizon 5 has been a flagship title for Xbox and PC since its release in 2021, offering players an expansive open-world experience set in the vibrant landscapes of Mexico. With the announcement of its PS5 port, PlayStation users will finally get to experience the thrill of the Horizon Festival.
The PS5 version of Forza Horizon 5 will be feature-complete, including all previously released DLC packs such as the Hot Wheels and Rally Adventure expansions. Players can look forward to the same content as the Xbox and PC versions, with nearly 900 cars and over 40 thematic game updates.
One of the most exciting aspects of this announcement is the inclusion of cross-play functionality. Players on PS5, Xbox, and PC will be able to join the same multiplayer sessions, ensuring that no one misses out on the best road trips and convoys4. Additionally, a new free content update called Horizon Realms will be introduced, featuring a curated collection of community favorite Evolving Worlds.
The developers at Playground Games are thrilled to see the Forza Horizon 5 community grow with new players on PS5. They are eager to see the creativity and skill that new creators, builders, and racers will bring to the vibrant community. This move is expected to attract a wave of new players to the game, enriching the experience for everyone.
Looking Ahead
While no specific release date has been confirmed beyond the Spring 2025 window, fans can already wishlist the game on the PlayStation Store to stay informed about updates and release times. This announcement sets a precedent for more Xbox titles potentially making their way to PlayStation, making 2025 an exciting year for gamers across platforms.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
On January 23, 2025, Xbox held its much-anticipated Developer Direct, revealing an impressive line-up of games and some splendid surprises. Here’s everything that was announced:
DOOM: The Dark Ages
Release Date: May 15, 2025 (NOT AN XBOX EXLUSIVE)
id Software took the stage to unveil DOOM: The Dark Ages, a prequel set in an intriguing dark fantasy and sci-fi world. Fans of the franchise can look forward to:
Combat: Incredible new weapons added to the Slayer’s arsenal to crush hellspawn.
Exploration: A dive into medieval-inspired settings, teeming with dark, sinister realms.
Story: An epic narrative revolving around the Slayer’s war against hell itself.
South of Midnight
Release Date: April 8, 2025
Compulsion Games showcased South of Midnight, a third-person action-adventure set in the myth-laden landscapes of the American Deep South. The game promises:
Folkloric Exploration: Immerse yourself in a world populated by creatures from Southern folklore.
Visually Magical World: Stunning graphics and a captivating narrative experience that explores rich, cultural tales.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Release Date: TBA
While no specific release date was mentioned, Sandfall Interactive provided a more in-depth glimpse into Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
Visual Spectacle: A beautifully crafted fantasy setting.
Gripping Story: An engaging narrative that fans of JRPGs will appreciate.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights: A look into the creative process and the art behind the game.
Ninja Gaiden 4
Release Date: Fall 2025 (NOT AN XBOX EXCLUSIVE)
A thrilling surprise, Ninja Gaiden 4 was announced as a collaboration between Team Ninja and PlatinumGames. Set in a dystopian Tokyo, the game introduces:
New Protagonist: Join Yakumo, a member of the Raven Clan, navigating Tokyo’s neon-lit streets.
Classic Action: Fast-paced combat familiar to fans, with deep roots in the Ninja Gaiden legacy.
Ryu Hayabusa: The original protagonist will play a pivotal role in the unfolding saga.
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black – Remastered
Available Now
In a delightful twist, Ninja Gaiden 2 Black is now available as a remastered definitive edition.
Unreal Engine 5: Enhanced visuals and performance.
Immediate Access: Available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Game Pass from today.
Xbox Play Anywhere and Game Pass Integration
All titles announced support Xbox Play Anywhere, allowing players to switch between Xbox and Windows devices with seamless progress. Plus, all the games from this event will be available on Xbox Game Pass from Day One, with cloud gaming support.
The video game industry experienced a turbulent year in 2024, witnessing a significant decline in hardware sales. According to data from Circana, video game hardware sales in the U.S. dropped by 29% compared to the previous year. This blog post delves into the intricate details of this decline, examining the factors that contributed to this downward trend and what it might mean for the future of the gaming industry.
December 2024 U.S. Video Game Market Highlights from Circana – December 2024 projected U.S. consumer spending on video game hardware, content and accessories declined 8.9% when compared to a year ago, to $7.5B. Spending during the 2024 year fell 1.1% compared to 2023, to $58.7B.
In 2024, video game hardware sales fell from $1.55 billion in 2023 to $1.11 billion, marking a steep 29% decrease. Several factors contributed to this decline, most notably the lifecycle stage of current gaming consoles and consumer anticipation for upcoming innovations.
The Impact of PlayStation 5 Pro
November 2024 brought a glimmer of hope with the release of the PlayStation 5 (PS5) Pro. This release temporarily boosted hardware sales; however, the surge was short-lived. By December, hardware sales had plummeted again, reflecting a 25% year-over-year decrease. The initial excitement around the PS5 Pro was not enough to sustain sales momentum through the holiday season.
Platform-Specific Sales Trends
Each major gaming console experienced its own unique challenges and declines in 2024:
Nintendo Switch: As the Nintendo Switch approached the end of its lifecycle, its sales dropped by a staggering 38% in December 2024. The console, which enjoyed immense popularity since its release, now faced the inevitable slowdown as consumers anticipated a new generation of Nintendo consoles.
Xbox Series Consoles: Microsoft’s Xbox Series consoles also faced a significant decline, with a 38% decrease in year-over-year sales for December 2024. Despite price cuts and holiday promotions, the platform could not escape the overall downturn in the market.
PlayStation 5: The regular PS5 saw an 18% drop in sales year-over-year. Even though the PS5 Pro’s release provided a temporary boost, it was not enough to offset the decline in sales of the standard model.
The Best-Selling Console of 2024
Despite the overall decline in hardware sales, the PlayStation 5 emerged as the best-selling console for 2024 in terms of both hardware spending and unit sales. Sony’s efforts to revitalize its offering with the PS5 Pro contributed to this achievement, albeit the gains were not as substantial as hoped.
Accessory Sales Remain Steady
While hardware sales took a hit, accessory sales remained robust. Accessory sales in December 2024 mirrored those of the previous year, showing no significant year-over-year change. Overall, accessory sales in 2024 saw a 6% increase compared to 2023. The PlayStation Portal topped the charts as the best-selling accessory, while the DualSense Midnight Black controller recorded the highest unit sales.
Total Revenue Overview
December 2024’s total revenue for video game hardware and accessories was $4.85 billion, significantly lower than December 2023’s $6.45 billion. This drop further highlights the extensive impact of the decline in hardware sales on the gaming market.
The Insider Gaming article encourages readers to discuss these findings in their forums, providing a platform for gamers, analysts, and industry insiders to share their perspectives and insights. The discussions could offer a deeper understanding of the market dynamics and factors influencing these trends.
The steep decline in video game hardware sales in 2024 signifies a notable shift in the market. This trend may be driven by the lifecycle of current consoles, consumer fatigue, and anticipation for future technologies. Console manufacturers will likely need to adjust their strategies, possibly accelerating the development and release of next-generation systems to rekindle consumer interest and drive future sales.
The decline in video game hardware sales in 2024 poses significant challenges but also opens up opportunities for innovation and growth in the gaming industry. As we move forward, it will be crucial for manufacturers and developers to understand and adapt to these evolving market dynamics, ensuring that they stay ahead of consumer trends and technological advancements.
In a significant update for Xbox users, Microsoft has announced that Xbox consoles will soon support external USB drives larger than 16TB. This new feature is currently being tested with Xbox Insiders in the Alpha Skip-Ahead ring and is expected to roll out to all users in the coming weeks.
Key Details of the Update:
Expanded Storage Capacity: Newly formatted drives larger than 16TB will be divided into multiple partitions, each appearing as a separate device on your console. This allows users to utilize all available space for games and apps1.
Reformatting Required: Drives larger than 16TB that have already been formatted will need to be reformatted to take advantage of the updated support.
No Upper Limit Specified: Microsoft has not yet specified an upper limit for storage devices, suggesting that the new partition method may allow for significantly larger storage capacities.
Xbox Series X|S Compatibility: While games optimized for Xbox Series X|S consoles still need to be installed on the console’s internal SSD or a matching Seagate or WD_Black Expansion Drive, external drives can be used to store game data and then moved onto the console’s SSD or an NVMe SSD expansion card.
Expand Your Xbox Storage with Support for Larger Drives
We are enabling support for external USB drives larger than 16TB, so you can be sure your favorite games are always ready to play! Newly formatted drives that are larger than 16TB will be formatted with multiple partitions to utilize all available space for games and apps. These will appear as multiple devices in the storage devices list.
Why This Matters:
With game install sizes steadily increasing over the years, this update is a welcome relief for gamers who have extensive libraries and need more storage space. It ensures that your favorite games are always ready to play without worrying about running out of space.
The feature is expected to be gradually released to wider testing groups before becoming available to all Xbox users, probably over the next couple of weeks. This means that soon, you’ll be able to connect even larger external hard drives to your Xbox console, providing virtually unlimited storage power.
