New ROG Xbox Ally Updates: Default Game Profiles Available in Preview
Roanne Sones, CVP Gaming Devices and Ecosystem, Xbox
Handheld gaming just keeps getting better. You, our players, are shaping the future of handheld gaming by providing feedback to Xbox, Windows, and ASUS, and we’re listening and delivering updates to enhance the way you play. Since the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds, we’ve been hard at work, listening to level up your experience – and today, we’re excited to share what’s new, what’s improved and what’s coming up next, as we continue to raise the bar on gaming experiences.
What’s New
Default Game Profiles (Preview)
Spend more time playing and less time fine-tuning. Default Game Profiles, available in preview starting today, automatically balance frame rate (FPS) and power consumption for 40 supported games at launch, including Fortnite,Gears of War: Reloaded, Hollow Knight: Silksong, and others, with more coming soon. This means smoother, more enjoyable gameplay and extended battery life, without requiring manual adjustments. For example, in Hollow Knight: Silksong, the Default Game Profile can add nearly an hour of battery life compared to Performance mode while still delivering smooth 120 FPS gameplay.
Default Game Profiles are hand-crafted per-game and only apply when on battery. When you launch a supported game, the system automatically applies a tailored game profile, which sets recommended power (TDP) and a FPS limit specific to the game.
If the game falls short of its target FPS, the game profile is designed to boost power to help reach the target FPS, trading a bit of battery life for a smoother gameplay experience.
If a game is performing above the target FPS, the game profile is designed to limit FPS at the target rate to save power.
Players can turn these settings on or off in the game using the Armoury Crate Command Center Gare Bar widget, where Game Profiles appear at the top of the widget with an ON/OFF toggle.
You can experience Default Game Profiles in preview mode for supported games, including these first party games, and more:
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7
Call of Duty: Warzone
DOOM Eternal
DOOM: The Dark Ages
Forza Horizon 5
Gears 5
Gears of War: Reloaded
Gears Tactics
Halo: The Master Chief Collection
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
Minecraft
Sea of Thieves
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4
Additional Improvements
We’ve also made several updates to deliver a smoother, faster, and more reliable experience on the Xbox ROG Ally based on your feedback. This includes:
Improved Gamepad response after login
Quicker Library loading, especially for players with large game libraries
Improved Cloud Gaming page performance, loading more quickly and more responsive
New Game Gallery filter by Performance Fit, helping you see how well games will run on your device
Bug fixes and performance enhancements for improved stability and responsiveness
To experience Default Game Profiles (Preview), and all the latest improvements, make sure you’ve installed the latest updates for Armoury Crate SE, the Xbox PC app, and Windows 11. Check out our essential tips for getting started to learn how to stay up to date.
Xbox Game Pass Benefits
As we shared at launch, players in select markets will also receive three months of Xbox Game Pass Premium* (where available) with the purchase of an ROG Xbox Ally or ROG Xbox Ally X handheld. Game Pass Premium offers unlimited Xbox Cloud Gaming, access to PC titles, and a library of over 200 great games like Forza Horizon 5,Hogwarts Legacy, Minecraft, and more, to jump into anytime, anywhere. Learn more at Xbox.com.
Looking Ahead
Based on early feedback from players, we’re actively investing in enhancements like sleep and wake reliability, improved formatting options for microSD cards, and more. Early next year, ROG Xbox Ally X will also introduce exciting AI-powered features such as Automatic Super Resolution (Auto SR) and highlight reels, giving players more ways to enjoy and share their gaming moments.
Game Save Sync Indicator Coming Next Week
We’re rolling out the Game Save Sync Indicator next week, a feature designed to give you peace of mind when switching between devices. With clear status updates, you’ll know exactly when your progress has synced to the cloud, whether you’re wrapping up on your PC or powering down your handheld. No more guessing or lost progress, just seamless, stress-free play across devices.
Powered by Windows 11 and inspired by the streamlined console experience, the Xbox full screen experience is purpose-built for gaming. On handhelds, it minimizes background activity and defers non-essential tasks, so more system resources are dedicated to gameplay.
This is just the beginning. We’re continuing to listen to your feedback, and excited to deliver even more new features and options that elevate the handheld experience. We’re building a new way to make sharing your input with us even easier, and we’ll have more to share on that soon. In the meantime, we’d love to hear from you directly in the feedback hub.
Thanks for being part of the Xbox community. We’re excited to keep building the future of gaming together. Stay tuned for more updates.
* Claim within 30 days of device activation. Valid payment method required. Subscription continues automatically at regular monthly price unless cancelled. Subject to xbox.com/subscriptionterms. Eligible existing Essential membership(s) will upgrade to Premium. For existing Ultimate members, the code will convert at a ratio. See xbox.com/code-conversion. Terms and exclusions apply. Game catalog varies over time, by region, device, and plan. xbox.com/gamepass.
Cat God Ranch: Deck-Building Meets Animal Ranch Management
Tudou, Lead Developer, CrazyPotato Studio
Summary
Out now on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC with Xbox Play Anywhere.
Unique blend of deckbuilding and ranch management with over 100 animals, including prehistoric creatures.
Our favorite genre combining animals, terrains, and props to create powerful synergies.
Hello everyone, we’re CrazyPotato Studio, and we’re thrilled to introduce our passion project — Cat God Ranch— to the Xbox community. Launching on November 20, 2025, for Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC (with Xbox Play Anywhere support), this game is a fresh take on the roguelite genre, combining strategic deckbuilding with the charm of animal ranch management.
Standing on the Shoulders of Great Roguelite Games
When we formed our studio, we knew we wanted to create a roguelike game. Not only is the genre more manageable for a small team, but it’s also one we deeply love. We’ve spent countless hours playing roguelikes like Brotato, Balatro, and Slay the Spire.
Cat God Ranch draws significant inspiration from Luck be a Landlord, and while the core mechanics share similarities, we’ve added our own twists and improvements
For example, we allow players to freely choose three families to bring into the game, primarily to prevent the card pool from expanding excessively and to facilitate future updates. We currently have eight families, and even if we increase this to ten families in the future, it won’t affect the spawn probability of individual animals. Furthermore, placing all animals into one large pool would limit both playability and creative freedom. We want you to be able to mix and match families according to your own ideas, further enhancing the game’s replayability.
Highlight Moments of Extinct Animals and Powerful Builds
For every type of extinct animal, we designed highlight moments for them to heighten the game’s excitement to deliver a uniquely thrilling experience. Take the Phorusrhacos, for instance. Its design aims to instil a sense of dread, so we made it capable of removing all other small animals upon entering the field and absorbing their contributions. This mechanic transforms it into a pivotal moment that drives the game’s pace and amplifies the emotional intensity.
Another example is Smilodon. It’s like an upgraded version of a tiger, but it leaves leftover meat after eating. While it looks less formidable than Phorusrhacos, when paired with mice, it can ignore distance and devour every animal on the field—a true highlight moment.
Besides the highlight moments, there are many more different builds to explore. For example, you can get an army of expensive Peacocks to get rich, allow Chimpunks to breed unchecked, or even discover more fun with prehistoric creatures in the latest DLC.
A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Players
Our goal was simple: create a fun roguelike game filled with adorable animals. Since launching on PC, more than 100,000 players have supported us—and we can’t thank you enough. Now, we’re thrilled to bring Cat God Ranch to Xbox players. Thank you all for joining us on this wild, animal-filled adventure!
Cat God Ranch is an animal-themed casual strategy roguelite game. Manage hundreds of animals to pay tribute to the Cat God! 8 animal families, 100+ animals, 10+ Cat Gods, 100+ items, and various animal combinations waiting for you to explore!
New Content – Age of Dinosaurs
New Content is included in this version! New rainforest scenario, 20+ dinosaurs, 20+ items, 2 cat gods, 10+ achievements, and more.
Manage Your Ranch
Take on the role of ranch manager and grow your fledgling herd of animals into one worthy of pleasing the Cat God! There are many different paths to choose from, but only one hurdle to overcome at the end of each week. Pay tribute to the Cat God or face his wrath and have your ranch shut down.
100+ Animals with Unique Abilities of 8 Families
Whether it’s alpacas, crocodiles, hyenas, larks, or a combination of all, you choose the kind of ranch you want to build. Feed your barnyard buddies to the carnivores, or watch an army of penguins and pandas propagate across your ranch.
Utilize Different Terrains and Watch Your Animals Thrive
Combine grasslands, caves, puddles, and other tile cards to create endless possibilities and combos.
Tango with 100+ Prop Cards to Make Tribute in Time!
As you improve on your ranch, the Cat God will bestow you with prop cards. Add these modifiers to your daily earnings and watch them grow!
With 10+ cat gods, 100+ animals, 100+ props, 20+ toys, and 10+ tiles, it’s time to build your own unique deck and appease the Cat God!
Level Up Your Look: Xbox and Crocs Launch Exclusive Gaming-Inspired Classic Clogs
Marcos WaltenbergGM, Xbox Global Partnerships
Game-mode: enabled. Xbox and Crocs have teamed up to release an exclusive collection.
Ready up with this controller-meets-clog design that reimagines the iconic Xbox controller with fixed buttons and joysticks into the perfect shoe for couch co-op and kicking back – complete with cushioned footbeds adorned with Player Left and Player Right, which give expert-level comfort to support your next session.
Available on the Crocs website starting tomorrow, the limited-edition Xbox collection includes a 5-pack of Xbox + Jibbitz charms featuring fan-favorite characters and icons from Halo, Fallout, DOOM, World of Warcraft, and Sea of Thieves.
No matter how you choose to play, or where your holiday plans take you – the iconic Xbox controller-inspired clog will be with you along every step of the fun.
Everything you Need to Know about Samurai Academy: Paws of Fury
Antoine Boulay, Producer at Fishing Cactus
Hello Xbox fans! Thanks for reading. I am thrilled to announce that our game Samurai Academy: Paws of Fury, which is based on the “Paws of Fury” movie, is out now on Xbox Series X|S, just in time for the holidays. Whether you’re playing solo or teaming up in local co-op with your friends and family, we wanted the game to feel fun-packed, wacky, and full of surprises. So, let me tell you a little bit about our game.
A Story That Picks up Right After the Movie Ends
Samurai Academy: Paws of Fury continues the story of Hank, our unlikely hero, right after the events of the “Paws of Fury” movie. Just when they thought the fighting was over, Hank and Jimbo are thrown back into combat, this time pitted against the mighty Shogun himself. Something’s changed, and the once-respected leader now commands an army of cats with one goal: to wipe out our heroes and the villages they’ve sworn to protect. As the chaos unfolds, it’s up to you to sharpen your samurai skills, defend Kakamucho, rescue Hank’s allies, and uncover the truth behind this evil plot.
During development, we had access to exclusive concept art from the animation studio, including never-before-seen environments and weapons. For us, huge fans of the universe, this was an absolute treat – and a huge dose of inspiration. If you’re a fan as well, we hope you’ll love what we created.
Discover Kakamucho Through Core Challenges and Quests
We’ve kept things simple and joyful: no micro-transactions, just fun gear to help you become the wackiest hero around.
In our game, you’ll face two core challenges on your path to becoming a true Samurai:
Village Raid: A tower defense-style mode where you’ll protect villages from waves of ninjas and samurai. Use your surroundings wisely, samurai. Exploding barrels and hidden tools might just turn the tide in your favour!
Samurai Trial: A fast-paced 2.5D runner-platformer mode. Dash, dodge, and leap through obstacles as you race to the finish line. Every second matters!
Along the way, you’ll unlock powerful skills and two additional playable characters, Emiko and Sumo, each with their own unique abilities.
Beyond the main story, each hub offers optional quests, and if you’re paying close attention, you might spot something… odd. Rumors swirl of red-furred creatures sneaking around and listening at doors. You might even catch a glimpse of their tails in strange places! What are they up to? We’re not sure. But we definitely should be investigating.
Key Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks that will be useful to read before jumping into the adventure:
Optional quests will be useful before returning to the main quest, making the game easier.
Persistence is the key to succeeding in the Samurai Trials — don’t hesitate to retry to achieve the best time possible!
Take advantage of background elements during Village Raids — you’ll find plenty of items to help you face the Shogun’s armies. And who knows? A red barrel exploding at the right moment could be the key to victory! Sometimes, your katana alone won’t be enough.
Pay attention to your HUD for visual indicators that quickly show where threats are coming from.
Communication is key! Share important information with your teammate and ask for help or assistance to overcome the cats.
Thank you so much for reading and I hope that our game Samurai Academy: Paws of Fury has sparked your interest. Good luck Samurai!
The village of Kakamucho is under attack by the Shogun’s cat armies! Join Hank, a dog samurai in a world of cats, and his friends as they reveal a sinister plot and save the day, samurai-style. Slash, dash, and laugh through this wacky third-person action adventure.
The Story
Just when they thought the fighting was over, Hank and Jimbo are thrown back into combat, this time pitting against the mighty Shogun himself. That’s right—the leader of the Paws of Fury world has had a mysterious change of heart. He aims to crush the blazing duo and the villages under their protection with his cat armies. It’s up to you to master samurai skills, protect Kakamucho, rescue Hank’s friends, and discover who is behind this evil plot.
Become a True Samurai
• Prove your skills and hone your lightning reflexes in progressively difficult samurai trials
• Learn mystical skills to quickly traverse the scenery or ambush unsuspecting hordes
• Wield an arsenal of gadgets and weapons to put an end to ever-rising enemy waves
Protect the Humble Settlements
• Defend the temples of Kakamucho, Dookiehill, and Pippishore against raids of powerful enemies, including Ninja ambushers, Viking warriors, and Jetpack elites
• Use creative traps to cause massive damage and bring the fight to the shogun’s minions
• Team up with beloved Paws of Fury characters and use their unique powers to assist in grandiose battles
Explore a Wacky, Colorful World
• Adventure to villages beyond Kakamucho in a vibrant, animated world packed with surprises
• Unlock new areas, items, and playable characters to expand the realm as you progress
• Discover and complete sidequests from quirky locals and friends both old and new, gaining fame, awards, and treasure
Uncover the Evil Plot
• Play through a lengthy story campaign, following the events of Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank
• Follow the tale through animated cutscenes, featuring both old pals and new characters
• Rescue your friends, unite the villages, and rally your allies to put an end to an evil conspiracy that threatens the empire and become a legendary hero!
Samurai Shenanigans for All
• Fun and accessible gameplay for players of all ages
• Challenging Samurai Trials to compete with your friends
• Local multiplayer mischief with split screen co-op: Play through the complete campaign with two players
GigaBash’s Long-Awaited Gamera DLC Introduces Two New Characters
It’s Time for A Rebirth!
Reports are coming in fast, folks. The oceans are rippling with the arrival of the newest additions to the GigaBash roster, blazing through from the Gamera universe as DLC characters! The GigaBash – Gamera – Rebirth DLC adds two new playable characters, Gamera and Guiron, into the game with their own unique skillsets to clash in the GigaBash arena.
Hat Trick
From the outset, GigaBash was always meant to be a love letter to the legendary franchises that have shaped and colored the childhoods of the Passion Republic Games team. We never imagined that our little homage would afford us the generous opportunities to officially represent titans of kaiju cinema in our game. The Gamera – Rebirth DLC is yet another notch on our belts, and an incredible chance to round out the big three of fan-requested collaborations with Gamera, just in time for the franchise’s 60th anniversary!
With quite the selection of remarkable kaiju from the animated series, how did we decide who would join Gamera in the arena? Guiron’s striking and unique design lent itself an edge when it came to making the cut to GigaBash‘s roster. The distinctive knife head and speed give Guiron a frantic, mobile moveset and playstyle — one that fans of the Gamera franchise are sure to enjoy playing as and against. Not to mention, Guiron is well-beloved and frequently pops up in fan requests when it comes to adding characters, so we are excited to be able to fulfill them at last!
Gamera and Guiron
The time has come for a closer look at the new characters coming into the game and their powerful moves. Let’s take a deep dive!
Gamera
The one, the only, the guardian of children and protector of humanity. It’s Gamera in its most recent incarnation, as seen in the 2023 fully animated “Gamera – Rebirth” series! Speed across the arena with its Plasma Jets, giving it mobility beyond measure.
Overwhelm the foes from long range with Magma Blasters and Plasma Fireballs.
Immolate the enemy with Scorching Hand, showcasing Gamera’s mastery over the purifying flame.
Tough, determined, capable; Gamera is a force of nature not to be taken lightly. Nothing’s getting past this kaiju, and that’s a fact.
Guiron
Sporting its sleek, agile form as shown on screen in the 2023 “Gamera -Rebirth” series, Guiron cleaves its way into the arena with alacrity! Its bladed head delivers swift and devastating slices, driven by acrobatic flips and leaps.
Launch its razor-sharp Scale Shots at enemies who dare assume they’re safe out of blade’s reach.
Tired of being outranged? Close the distance with a piercing headlong charge.
Guiron’s agility makes it harder to pin down, and its body itself is a weapon to be reckoned with. Let the knife carve out a foundation for its dominance.
Making Waves
We hope the GigaBash Gamera -Rebirth DLC will resonate with longtime fans of the franchise as well as players yet to be introduced to such legends. It has been an honor for us to be able to bring these beloved characters to life and put them in your hands! Gamera and Guiron join the ranks of Godzilla and Ultraman, from the silver screen to your screens, in the ultimate kaiju fighting game.
With two of the most vicious kaiju ever put on screen entering the GigaBash stage, alongside a whole host of other iconic characters and 13 original GigaBash characters in the game, fans are in for a whale of a time. It’s high tide in the arena, and the waters offer no mercy, no remorse, and brook no quarter! Will you be the bulwark Gamera who stands unmoving against the break of waves? Or will you be the riptide Guiron, sharp and deadly, cutting off all hope of escape? Surge forth and take control of your fate!
It’s time for a rebirth! This DLC adds “Gamera” and “Guiron” from the iconic Gamera series in their modern, fully animated incarnations into GigaBash, featuring their own unique skillsets.
As seen in “GAMERA -Rebirth-“, Gamera emerges to protect those it was made to destroy. Gamera shows that defense and offense go hand-in-hand, with plasma jets to close the distance and flaming projectiles to engage at range. Its thick armored shell ensures no attack gets through. The guardian kaiju is devastating and dangerous at any distance.
Slicing through at lightning speed, Guiron launches into the fray in its “GAMERA -Rebirth-” incarnation. With unmatched agility, Guiron wields its iconic bladed head to drive destruction into any who stand in the way. Its razor-sharp Scale Shots threaten those who try to escape. This kaiju is a living weapon in name and purpose.
Will you embody the cutting edge of Guiron and strike terror upon the world? Or will you don the shell of Gamera to purify and protect your allies?
If you don’t live near a beach, you might not know roundnet, the clever twist on volleyball invented by Jeff Knurek in 1989. The game simmered for years, then exploded when Spikeball was founded. It took over college quads, grew into a pro circuit, and now it’s coming for a new arena: your Xbox.
Spikeball Smash is now available globally and offers an authentic take on the popular leisure sport. Featuring 2v2 local and online multiplayer, Spikeball is as competitive and intense as you choose to make it.
What is Spikeball?
Imagine volleyball, but the net is flat to the ground inside a 36-inch ring. Your team gets three alternating touches to return the ball to the net. Rally until the ball drops and a point is scored. First to 21 wins.
After a serve, there are no “sides,” since the net is round. So unlike volleyball or tennis or any other “game with a net,” players move around 360 degrees in controlled chaos. There’s no real out of bounds, so huge smashes can send defenders sprinting and diving for last-second saves.
Why Bring Spikeball to Xbox?
We love the rush of the real thing, but we wanted a way to play anytime and with anyone from anywhere. Queue up online, drop into a quick match with cross play, or set up couch games for your friends. Turn up the music, chase the rally, and run it back.
Spikeball Smash is out now worldwide for $4.99 USD. It delivers an authentic take on the sport with 2v2 local multiplayer and full online cross play. Bad weather or absent friends won’t stop you from enjoying Spikeball Smash.
What Comes Next
This is the starting line. We priced Spikeball Smash low for two reasons:
We want to make it easy for anyone to jump in during the holidays.
We have more on the way and early players get added benefits.
Our focus now is on giving you more reasons to keep playing and more rewards for your time. We’ll share those details soon.
Spikeball Smash brings the party to your room. Tap into the real-life energy of Spikeball solo or with up to four players. Feel the sand between your toes as you serve from the beach or listen to the cheers from the party as you dominate in the quad. Play to win with authentic Spikeball rules.
Dive for a last-second save, get back to the net for the setup, and crush the winning smash. The competition is fierce, but the controls are simple. Easy to learn, deep enough to master. Play it casual with friends or climb in ranked play. There’s no wrong way to approach Spikeball Smash.
Play for fun. Play for bragging rights. Play loud.
The Full Screen Experience is available for Xbox Insiders Starting today!
Cassie Chou, Senior Technical Program Manager
Today the full screen experience (FSE) is generally available on Windows 11 handhelds currently in market, bringing performance optimizations and the ability to boot directly into Xbox for a smoother, more seamless way to play. Designed to minimize friction and get players into their games faster, this update helps deliver a console-like experience on handheld devices. For more information on how to set up, check out the full screen experience support page.
In addition to handhelds, the Xbox full screen experience is now available in preview for more Windows 11 PC form factors, such as laptops, desktops, and tablets, tailored for the PC experience.
The Xbox full screen experience introduces a controller-navigable UI that brings an immersive, console-like experience to Windows 11 PC form factors. Designed for controller-first navigation, it provides a gaming-first, full-screen environment where players can easily browse and launch titles from across their game libraries- including most popular PC storefronts. A powerful Task Switcher enables quick movement between games and apps, delivering a seamless experience.
How to Get Access to the PC Preview: Join Xbox Insider and Windows Insider Program
Share your thoughts in Feedback Hub, accessible via keyboard shortcut (WIN + F) or via the Xbox PC App (by selecting “Report a Problem”). Be sure to submit your Feedback under Gaming and Xbox > Gaming Full Screen Experience.
How to Get Xbox Insider Support and Share Your Feedback
We want to thank all the Xbox Insiders for the feedback you share with us. If you’re an Xbox Insider looking for support, please join our community on the Xbox Insider subreddit, where official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are there to help. We recommend adding to threads with the same topic before posting a brand new one. This helps us support you the best we can! We’re grateful to our Insider community for the helpful feedback you provide, it continues to shape the future of Xbox.
For more information on the Xbox Insider Program, follow us on Twitter at @XboxInsider and keep an eye on this blog for all the latest news.
For more information: follow us on X/Twitter at @XboxInsider and this blog for announcements and more. And feel free to interact with the community on the Xbox Insider SubReddit.
Welcome to Next Week on Xbox! In this weekly feature we cover all the games coming soon to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Xbox on PC, and Game Pass! Get more details on these upcoming games below and click their profiles for further info (release dates subject to change). Let’s jump in!
Experience the events of ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ brought to life through glorious pixel artwork and action-packed arcade gameplay! Play as Sarah Connor and the T-800 through a variety of thrilling missions as they take on the T-1000 and try to put a stop to Skynet’s plans before the human race is annihilated. Lead the Resistance as John Connor in the future, fighting on the front lines as mankind’s only hope in the War Against the Machines. In this unique story blending iconic scenes from ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ with original scenarios and multiple endings, humanity’s fate is yours to decide.
Observe. Report. Survive the night. Monitor the surveillance system for anomalies and report them to survive the night. Use your sharp eyes and keen attention to detail to detect supernatural anomalies ranging from subtle environmental changes to eerie and unsettling otherworldly intruders. Can you survive the night shift, or will you succumb to paranoia…? I’m on Observation Duty 8 is the most ambitious title yet in the original viral franchise that ignited a trend in spot-the-difference horror games that have been loved by players and streamed for millions by legendary content creators.
Primal Fray is a turn-based strategy roguelite. Combat takes place on a procedurally generated hex based flying islands. You will use your units to outmaneuver and kill enemy troops. Choose between multiple heroes. Use their unique talents to conquer the Rift and learn more about their stories entangled with dark and ominous Ironclad Corp.
A.I.L.A is a first-person horror game set in a near-future filled with immersive technology. Play as the sole game tester for a revolutionary new fictional AI. Survive intense horror experiences that prey on your deepest fears as the lines between virtual and reality begin to blur…
Year 2352, humanity is exploring the exoplanets for the expansion of its stellar empire. It comes as no surprise that we encounter alien adversaries – some easy to conquer, others far more advanced and harder to subjugate. To assist in the conquest, a dedicated fleet of fighter drones called Compadrones – or ‘compadre’ drones were created to serve as the ultimate vanguard of our attack forces. Compadrone: Land Wars is a family-friendly top-down roguelite arena shooter with elements of tower defense gameplay in which you play as a drone sent to fight off aliens on an exoplanet.
In Delivery of Us, you guide a clever carrier pigeon on a mission to deliver every letter across the city’s rooftops. Plan each route carefully, because every move counts. Once the counter hits zero, the delivery fails. This relaxing logic and movement-based puzzle game combines smooth mechanics, strategic planning, and calm visuals. Each level challenges you to find the most efficient path to every mailbox while avoiding walls, hazards, and obstacles along the way.
You are the Exterminator on a crusade against the spider horde taking over the multiverse. Blast through the story campaign solo or with friends via online co-op for up to 4 players or jump into a frenetic Humans vs Spiders PvP mode for some laughs and screams.
Mudness Offroad & Buried Alive Bundle delivers a gripping mix of harsh survival and demanding terrain navigation. One tests your endurance in nature’s toughest environments, the other your will to escape the unthinkable. This bundle is made for those who never back down — whether battling nature or facing their deepest fears.
Project Motor Racing ignites all the passion, beauty, and intensity of professional motorsport. Race across eras in 70 meticulously recreated cars across 13 iconic classes and 28 global layouts.
They are billions. You are alone. An ominous brotherhood of religious fanatics perform experiments on humans in their top-secret scientific complex. An ancient prison hidden deep in the Swiss mountains houses hundreds of test subjects whose bodies are mutilated in an effort to produce a new biological species of superhuman. You are one of them, but unlike other test subjects, your body is immune to mutagens. For you, it’s not poison anymore, rather a source of power that makes your body nearly indestructible. Steal the weapon and obliterate them.
Can you find a normal beer in a world of conspicuously flavoured craft beer, and solve the mystery of the elusive, missing pilsner, using nostalgic interface from the golden age of adventure games? Talk to West Coast IPA and American Black Ale drinking hipsters and solve beer related puzzles at different stages of drunkenness; explore locations like a sports bar, a microbrewery, a dive bar and a rock bar in the city of Oslo, in your quest of finding a pilsner.
Embark on a thrilling platforming quest across 10 handcrafted levels filled with deadly traps, diverse enemies, and escalating challenges. With an estimated playtime of 30–60 minutes, casual players will enjoy fast-paced action and precision gameplay.
Embark on a heroic journey in Knight’s Quest, a 2D platformer set in a world consumed by darkness. Play as a valiant knight determined to reclaim ancient ruins and defeat monstrous foes. Can you restore light to a shattered realm?
Join Poko on a frosty and challenging adventure! Winter is coming, and the little penguin Poko needs to gather enough fish to survive the cold! Use your logic and planning to push blocks, open paths, and collect all the fish across 30 carefully designed levels inspired by classic puzzle games.
Schildmaid MX is a fresh and frenetic side-scrolling 2D shoot ’em up in which you pick 1 of 3 ferocious fighter spacecraft to wreak havoc on the invasion fleet that threatens your planet. Embark on multiple attack runs and strike fear into the hearts of your enemy. The best pilots are immortalized on the online leaderboards!
A classic space shooter reborn! Pilot your ship on an epic journey through the cosmos, facing hordes of space pirates across 13 intense levels. Defeat enemies to collect upgrade orbs and spend them in the shop to evolve your ship with more damage, extra life, and insane speed. Face colossal bosses in battles that demand strategy and razor-sharp reflexes. Every victory brings you closer to interstellar glory!
Traverse through the surreal world suspended somewhere between dream and emotion on a touching journey through grief, guilt, and healing, as you search for your lost sister, Lulu. Solve puzzles, recover lost memories, face your deepest fears and regrets… And don’t be afraid to take the leap forward.
Step into a first-person horror experience inspired by classic 80s slashers. A routine job becomes a night of terror as you explore an eerie suburban home hiding sinister secrets. Solve puzzles, find tools to escape, and outsmart a ruthless killer who’s always one step behind you. Grimy VHS visuals, haunting ambience, and shocking moments bring old-school horror to life in a new way.
You were tricked by your friends. After the latest events, you’ll need to delve deeper into the mysterious establishment of Banban’s Kindergarten. Now, you’re completely on your own – your friends are either dead or against you… From now on, you’ll only meet new enemies, who will make sure you never feel alone. Be careful – in Banban’s Kindergarten, they are lurking in every corner, waiting for you.
Get ready to jump, dash, and glide with Quick Whiskers, a pixel-art platformer where every move counts! Take control of a nimble cat and venture through 30 challenging levels across two unique biomes: the peaceful park and the bustling city. Your mission is simple but full of action: collect food cans and reach a cozy bed to rest.
Snake.io – November 27 Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Xbox Play Anywhere / Smart Delivery
Develop your skills, try to survive as much as you can and become the biggest snake. You start as a small snake, get bigger by eating other snakes who try to do the same. You have to attack wisely but defend skillfully. How long can you survive?
Star Ores Inc. is an intergalactic mining adventure that catapults you onto an abandoned space station in the middle of space. As a freshly minted entrepreneur, you begin your career in a world full of ores, machines, and galactic possibilities. Dig through massive asteroids and extract rare minerals, which you refine into valuable high-tech products. With the help of specialized robots, conveyor systems, and automated machinery, you build an efficient production chain — from raw material extraction to sales.
Combining the speed of an arcade racer with the brawling of a fighting game, this cult classic made its mark with its originality and its own dose of chaos and personality. Race on tracks filled with obstacles and crazy settings (from Mount Rushmore to Transylvania), use special moves to knock out your rivals, and explore modes that go far beyond traditional racing.
Take control of your spacecraft and dive into a cosmic odyssey where speed, precision, and exploration collide. Navigate surreal, gravity-defying landscapes filled with twisting asteroid rings and radiant celestial structures. With every level, push your reflexes to the limit as you dodge obstacles, collect vital energy cores, and uncover hidden mysteries of deep space. Only the sharpest pilots will survive the challenge — are you ready to conquer the cosmos?
See the world through the eyes of a bee! Explore a world inspired by Central Park as you gather pollen, evade threats, and build your own thriving beehive. This edition combines the original Bee Simulator with The Hive expansion, introducing new mechanics, game modes, and fresh as a spring pollen content—all in one buzzing adventure, perfect for players of all ages.
Will you manage to completely destroy the wall until not a single brick is left standing? Immerse yourself in the most satisfying casual game where you tear down walls brick by brick using a circular saw! Push the bricks into your BucketCrusher to convert them into cash, but watch out because you can run out of fuel!
El Coco is a 3D action roguelike that plunges you into a world of dreams, broken memories, and living nightmares. Descend into The Uncertain, a place as strange as it is dangerous, and fight to recover what you’ve lost—if you can trust your guide.
Emoji Battlefield – Origins throws you into a chaotic, rogue-like first-person shooter where emojis aren’t just harmless faces — they’re deadly enemies. Start each run by customizing your experience with unique modifiers: crank up the difficulty, make every emoji wear a ridiculous hat, or turn on bouncing mode for hilarious chaos. Then pick your unlocked arena — from The Bouncy Castle to Candy World or even outer space — each with its own hazards and interactive traps.
Enjoy the relaxing puzzle of Habitat Shapes by organizing spaces for three animal families – mammals, birds, and reptiles – using Fence/Wall pieces to keep them separated. Watch out: different families cannot touch, and any attempt triggers a funny “fight cloud,” sending the last piece back to the conveyor.
In Keypybara, prepare for a classic 2D platforming experience with precise and responsive controls. You must navigate carefully handcrafted levels (each one a single, challenging “room”) filled with deadly traps. Your mission is clear: collect the key to unlock the exit. To do this, you will need to push boxes and dodge spikes. With instant respawn and 30 unique stages that progressively increase the challenge, the game offers an addictive, smooth, and rewarding gameplay loop with every obstacle overcome.
Red Pippy is a charming 2D pixel art platformer that follows the journey of a little red bird in pursuit of its biggest dream: learning to fly! With each level, Pippy learns new skills as he navigates vibrant and perilous environments, jumping across platforms and overcoming obstacles that bring him closer to his ultimate goal. Will he prove that he’s ready to conquer the skies?
Step into the Cyber Wild West! Take on the role of a sharp-eyed detective in a world where the Wild West collides with high-tech cyberpunk. Welcome to Red Hook, a mysterious frontier town ruled by circuits and secrets. But trouble is brewing… The town treasury has been stolen. The sheriff? Kidnapped. Now it’s up to you to crack the case.
Xbox Partner Preview returned today, shining a light on our third-party partners with world premieres, new announcements, DLC reveals and much more. During the 30-minute broadcast, we revealed five brand new games, released three that you can play today, and announced nine new titles that will be playable day one on Game Pass Ultimate -from partners such as IO Interactive, Poncle, THQ Nordic, and Future Friends, alongside other powerhouse developers.
The broadcast kicked off with the world premiere of Armatus, the upcoming third-person action-roguelike from publisher, Fictions, ande wrapped up with the announcement ofRaji: Kaliyuga, a surprise sequel to 2020’s action-adventure game, Raji. We also showed a world premiere of Vampire Survivors studio, Poncle’s new game, Vampire Crawlers. Even better – all three of these titles will be available day one on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. We also saw new DLC and an Xbox release for Dave the Diver, plus a first look at the wild new Eminem Elusive Target mission heading to Hitman: World of Assassination next week, among many others.
All of the games featured in today’s show are Xbox Play Anywhere, which means you’ll be able to play across console, PC and supported gaming handhelds with just one copy of the game.
Additionally, we also announced that full screen experience—originally available on the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X—is generally available tomorrow (November 21) across all gaming handhelds currently in market. Plus, we’re expanding FSE to more Windows 11 PC form factors through the Xbox and Windows Insider programs soon.
If you missed it, don’t worry, we’re here with a recap of everything announced during the show. Read on for more:
007 First Light
James Bond is of course, synonymous with fast cars packed with wild gadgets, and 007 First Light plans to honor that legacy with the inclusion of what else but a slick Aston Martin. The trailer showed a first look at the Aston Martin Valhalla, a state-of-the-art sports coupé with a few “special” modifications (guns) built in especially for on-duty 00 Agents. It looks as though this car will become a much-needed sidekick to young Bond’s activities in 007 First Light – and you can floor it over to our post to read more about the franchise’s long-running legacy with iconic vehicles.
007 First Light launches on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox on PC on March 27, 2026.
Armatus
We got a first look at the worldwide premiere of Armatus, a third-person roguelite shooter from Counterplay Games. The trailer introduces us to a mysterious event known as The Vanishing, which has ended the world. Armatus sees you become a masked warrior, summoned and magnificently armed, to defeat the demonic horrors wandering the ruins of Paris. Your motivations are a mystery for now, so we’re excited to see what Armatus‘ narrative has in-store. You can also read more on Xbox Wire about the gothic horror inspiration and background of Armatus right here.
Armatus launches in 2026 for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud. It’ll also be available day one via Xbox Game Pass.
CloverPit
Gamble for your life (quite literally) in CloverPit, the roguelite where every spin contributes to your survival. Locked in a room with a slot machine and an ATM, you must play to pay off your debts and not be plunged into the depths below via a trap door. With a host of odd prizes and curious items that can trigger big wins, combos and boost your luck, every run ends up different and more compelling than the last. Find out more about CloverPit’s gripping loop, plus information about the upcoming DLC, here on Xbox Wire.
And the ultimate jackpot – CloverPit is out today! Play it on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC and Xbox Cloud, and via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Premium.
Crowsworn
This stylish action platformer blends tight traversal mechanics with fluid combat manoeuvres, and we got to see a little more of it in action during today’s Crowsworn gameplay trailer. The world of Fearanndal is under a terrible curse, and it’s up to you to fight through hordes of monsters and unravel the mysteries of this forsaken land. Uncover secrets, upgrade your abilities, and enhance your loadouts as you progress through this gorgeous metroidvania.
Crowsworn launches on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC and Xbox Cloud, and will also be playable day one with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Dave The Diver + In The Jungle DLC
Dave the Diver arrives on Xbox today! Xbox Series X|S and Xbox on PC players can dive into this deep-sea RPG and explore the Blue Hole by day, and run a thriving sushi restaurant by night. Its whimsical setting combined with a deeply moreish gameplay loop is an absolute must-play. We also got a look at In The Jungle, a new expansion that sees our titular marine hero Dave exploring solid ground, riding through jungle settlements, and doing battle against a fierce, giant crocodile. Read more about the inspiration behind Dave the Diver, here on Xbox Wire.
Dave The Diver is available today on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud, and is optimized for handheld devices. In The Jungle arrives early 2026.
Echo Generation 2
Developer Cococumber has unveiled a sequel to voxel adventure Echo Generation, and it looks interesting indeed. Echo Generation 2 is bringing back the first game’s spooky, supernatural setting, as well as its explosive turn-based combat against cosmic horrors and raging robots. We’re also seeing welcome inspiration from many beloved ’80s and ’90s action movies, including a Gremlins-esque battle sidekick. It looks like great fun, and we’re curious to see more.
Echo Generation 2 is coming soon to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, Xbox Cloud, and Xbox Game Pass.
Erosion
We showed the world premiere of Erosion, an isometric action game set in a stylish, western-themed voxel world. The trailer showed us a super interesting mechanic – when you die, you respawn 10 years later. In the time that passes, the world around you has changed, and other characters have gotten older, creating an urgency to find what you’re looking for. It’s a curious concept, and we’re looking forward to seeing more.
Erosion is coming to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, Xbox Cloud, and Xbox Game Pass, and will launch into Xbox Game Preview on PC in spring 2026.
Hitman World of Assassination
The next Hitman World of Assassination Elusive Target mission is on the way, and it’s a truly fantastic concept. This job sees Agent 47 tasked with hunting down none other than the alter ego Slim Shady, at the request of… yes, rapper, Eminem himself. In this world, the younger Slim Shady has become an entirely separate, violent entity, and our intrepid assassin is tasked with taking him out by the real Eminem, in fear that his own creation will come for him. We’re truly excited for this one – pop over to our post for more insight into how Eminem’s Elusive Target mission came to life.
The Mound: Omen of Cthulu
A team of explorers ventures deep into an unwelcoming land in this upcoming co-op horror game. In this new gameplay trailer for The Mound: Omen of Cthulhu, the expedition arrives on a mysterious coastline shrouded by dangerous jungles and supernatural forces beyond comprehension. Inspired by the inexplicable (un)realities of H.P. Lovecraft’s original stories, The Mound challenges players to work together and navigate shifting perceptions of reality to survive the horrors and uncover the treasures that lie within.
The Mound: Omen of Cthulhu arrives in summer 2026, and will be available on Xbox Series X|S.
Raji: Kaliyuga
We’re thrilled to reveal a brand-new sequel to Raji: An Ancient Epic, the multi award winning indie action-adventure title, set in ancient India. Set six years after the original game, Raji: Kaliyuga expands on the conflict, portraying not just a war among mortals but a cosmic struggle involving gods, asuras, and mystical forces. You play as Raji and her younger brother Darsh as dual protagonists that you’ll control during different parts of the story. The sequel also makes bold new strides into a new genre, pivoting from the first game’s isometric interpretation of ancient India, into a full third person action-adventure, and we can’t wait to see more! For now, you can read more about how developer Nodding Heads Games is bringing this ambitious sequel to life, here on Xbox Wire.
Raji: Kaliyuga is slated to launch on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud. It’ll also launch day one on Xbox Game Pass.
Reanimal
From the creators of Little Nightmares – Reanimal is a darkly inviting co-op horror where you play as a brother and sister on a mission to rescue their missing friends and escape their home, which is now shrouded in horrors. As the duo, you’ll venture through a twisted world brimming with monsters and secrets. In this new trailer, we saw some new locations in this uniquely atmospheric setting, as well as some new gameplay mechanics that you’ll use to explore and survive this harrowing adventure.
Reanimal launches February 2026, and will be available for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC and Xbox Cloud and is available to preorder today. If you can’t wait until then, a demo for Reanimal is available to play today.
Roadside Research
If you’ve ever wanted to be an alien working undercover at a rural gas station, well, that’s incredibly specific… and we’ve got the game for you. Roadside Research is a comedic co-op simulator where you’ll do just that, with the aim of gathering intelligence on humans. Day to day, you’ll be responsible for running the shop, stocking shelves, and appearing normal, while secretly conducting research on your customers. However, if you arouse too much suspicion, the government will show up, jeopardizing your Earthly mission. It looks like great fun, especially with friends.
Roadside Research launches on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC and Xbox Cloud in Q1 2026,and it’ll be available day one via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Tides of Annihilation
Next up, we saw some incredibly cool gameplay from Tides of Annihilation, an upcoming fantasy action-adventure title inspired by Arthurian Legend. The trailer shows off an entire boss battle from start to finish, with protagonist Gwendolyn battling a giant winged entity, using abilities that allow her to shift through different realities to gain an edge in the fight. It’s a mesmerizing scene, complete with cinematic moments to add more flair to the frenetic combat. For a full breakdown of what’s happening during that epic, reality-bending boss fight in the trailer, head over to our deep dive here.
Tides of Annihilation is coming to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC and Xbox Cloud – stay tuned for news on a release date.
Total Chaos
From the creator of Turbo Overkill comes Total Chaos, a first-person survival horror brimming with mysteries to solve and monsters to kill/avoid/scream at. In this eerie, atmospheric world, you’ll scavenge materials to craft makeshift weapons, and battle against horrific creatures as you unfurl a nightmare narrative. The gameplay trailer alone looks tense and truly unnerving, but fortunately, you don’t need to wait to experience the horrors for yourself.
Surprise! Total Chaos is available today, on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, Xbox Cloud, and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Vampire Crawlers
Poncle, the creator of Vampire Survivors, is back with a brand-new game announcement inVampire Crawlers – a first-person, deckbuilding, roguelike dungeon crawler brimming with the developer’s trademark chaotic approach. Many of your favorite familiar upgrades are featured – the bible, the whip, and of course, the garlic. It’s a fresh, interesting twist on the Vampire Survivors look and feel, with that same compelling, “one more go” appeal we know and love. Want to know more? Stick with Xbox Wire to read our exclusive interview with Poncle about building your future favorite time sink.
Vampire Crawlers is coming to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, Xbox Cloud and Game Pass Ultimate soon – keep an eye on Xbox Wire for news on a release date.
Zoopunk
Take control of a ragtag group of sky-faring, traditional-weapon-wielding anthropomorphic animals in Zoopunk, a new action game from TiGames, and part of the universe introduced by the acclaimed F.I.S.T.: Forged In Shadow Torch. This new trailer sees one character on the hunt for an enigmatic object called “Spark”, before being captured by a rival group looking to take it for themselves. We also got a look at the fast-paced, third-person combat, which sees the characters pulling off different acrobatic moves and explosive abilities in battle.
Zoopunk looks like a fun, sci-fi romp, and it’s coming to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud in 2027.
Free Play Days – Nowhere Prophet, One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4, For the King II, Wildgate and more
Kyle OceanMarketing Manager, Xbox
Plenty to explore this weekend with Free Play Days! Police Simulator: Patrol Officers (XPA), Expeditions: A Mudrunner Game and Wildgate are available this weekend for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Premium and Essential members to play from Thursday, November 20 until Sunday, November 23.
Nowhere Prophet, One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4, and For the King II are free for all Xbox members to try during Free Play Days (Xbox Game Pass Game Pass Ultimate, Premium and Essential membership not required).
How To Start Playing
Scroll down and find and install the games on each of the individual game details pages on Xbox.com. Clicking through will send you to the Microsoft Store, where you must be signed in to see the option to install with your Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Premium and Essential membership. To download on console, click on the Subscriptions tab in the Xbox Store and navigate down to the Free Play Days collection on your Xbox One or Xbox Series X|S.
Keep The Fun Going
Purchase the game and other editions at a limited time discount and continue playing while keeping your Gamerscore and achievements earned during the event! Please note that discounts, percentages, and title availability may vary by title and region.
Wildgate Optimized for Xbox Series X|S Wildgate is a PvP multiplayer shooter that blends tactical ship-to-ship combat with fast-paced first-person action. The latest update, Wildgate: Emergence, is out now for the spacefaring crew-based first-person shooter. Emergence introduces highly requested new game modes, Treasure Hunt and Fleet Battle, Psionic prospector Charlie, the Outlaw solo or two-person crew ship, the ability to create custom game lobbies, and more.
Police Simulator: Patrol Officers Optimized for Xbox Series X|S, Smart Delivery, Xbox Play Anywhere Welcome to Brighton! Join the ranks of this fictitious American city’s police force and experience the everyday life of a police officer. Begin with parking violations and work your way up to shouldering greater responsibilities. Be part of Brighton’s community, get to know your neighborhood, and fulfill the daily duties of a police officer as you fight crime during your shift.
Expeditions: A MudRunner Game Optimized for Xbox Series X|S, Smart Delivery Embark on ever-rewarding scientific expeditions and unravel the mysteries of uncharted lands for free as part of Xbox Free Play Days. To celebrate the release of Season 4: Amber Dusk, you can also grab the game for 50% off. Jump in alone or with your friends now – adventure awaits!
Nowhere Prophet Xbox Play Anywhere Prepare your decks and go on a pilgrimage through the wasteland! Nowhere Prophet is a unique single-player card game. Travel across randomly generated maps and lead your followers in deep tactical combat. Discover new cards and build your deck as you explore this, strange, broken world. Try Nowhere Prophet for free as part of Xbox Free Play Days, and grab the full game at 70% off.
One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4 All aboard, pirates! Battle your way through waves of enemies as your favorite One Piece characters in One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4. In search of treasure, relive some of the One Piece series’ most memorable moments from Alabasta all the way to the Land of Wano. Experience the latest evolution of Pirate Warriors action and prepare for an even more thrilling gameplay with enhanced graphics on Xbox Series X|S and check out the upcoming DLC, Character Pack No. 7.The new Legendary Edition is on sale at 50% off this weekend — don’t miss your chance to own the most complete One Piece experience!
For the King II Optimized for Xbox Series X|S, Smart Delivery, Xbox Play Anywhere Battle against Fahrul’s tyrannical Queen alone or as a party of four players in the sequel to For The King, the massively popular turn-based roguelite tabletop RPG. Will you unravel the once beloved Queen’s terrible secret?
Don’t miss out on these exciting Free Play Days for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Premium and Essential members! Learn more about Free Play Days here and stay tuned to Xbox Wire to find out about future Free Play Days and all the latest Xbox gaming news.
