Screenbound: Getting Our Heads Around the Brain-Breaking “5D” Platformer
2D platformer or 3D platformer? Many will have a definitive preference to that decades-old question – but Screenbound dares to ask: why not both?
It’s a simple enough pitch, but playing the game’s GDC demo shows you how complex a challenge this will have been for developer Cresent Moon Games. Screenbound begins when your character discovers a mysterious device known as the “Qboy”. Seemingly left behind by their mom, it’s affixed with a post-it note reading “Find Me”. Turning it on, they’re transported to an archetypal game world; floating islands, chiptune soundtrack, coins to collect – the works.
Except, as the player, you navigate this world in both 2D and 3D simultaneously. From a first-person perspective, you’ll see the full 3D world arrayed around you, but you’re always holding the Qboy at the bottom of the screen, showing the same level as if it was a retro 2D platformer (well, 2.5D if we’re being picky).
As the demo begins, you quickly get a handle on things – making your way around a colourful 3D world, avoiding obstacles, platforming, battling enemies and exploring, all while seeing the secrets and storytelling this world has to offer.
You’ll never be lost though, as your 2D view gives you the clearest sense of your objective, and key collectibles or pathways that might not be visible from your current 3D viewpoint become far clearer in a flattened-down world.
Where it starts to get really tricky is when you need to start using both in tandem. Some items might only be visible in the 2D version of the world, while some obstacles might only be visible in 3D (or vice versa) – you’re going to quickly need to start flicking your eyes, and your attention, between both as often as you can. For some puzzles, you’ll need to use both perspectives – you might find yourself blocked from progressing in the 3D world, only for the solution to be in 2D. This is made more engaging by using your trusty Qboy to help merge both worlds in a “Q-view” mode, showing the secrets of the 2D world in 3D to help you solve challenges.
Sometimes the game takes you entirely into 2D. Behind doors and inside consoles, you’ll find platforming sections that can net you extra coins, and unlock the way forward in the 3D world, while also hiding some of the Qube collectibles you need to unlock bonus levels. There are even secret exits that can lead you to entirely new parts of the level.
Within just the first world of the game, new weapons, block types, enemies and more are introduced to one or both of your viewpoints, asking you to learn new rules on the fly.
Even in these earliest stages of the game, the possibilities for how far Cresent Moon Games could take this are dizzying – not least because a trailer after the demo concludes teases that this is just “Cartridge 1”. As we unlock new cartridges, it seems Screenbound itself will begin to morph into different styles – adding new ways to play while paying homage to the 2D titles that inspired it.
Combining perspectives is one thing – and there’s more than enough in here already to imagine a game’s worth of mind-melting puzzle-platforming – but combining entire genres on top of that might make Screenbound even more impressive.
Invincible VS: Allen the Alien Joins the Roster as Open Beta Dates are Confirmed
Mike Willette, Executive Producer, Invincible VS
Summary
Allen the Alien, the superpowered Unopan, is joining the Invincible VS roster.
Skybound’s in-house studio, Quarter Up, revealed Invincible VS’s Open Beta will begin on April 9, exclusively on consoles, with 10 playable characters.
Invincible VS is a new 3v3 tag fighting game based on the beloved comic book and TV series, coming to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud as an Xbox Play Anywhere title on April 30, 2026.
Invincible fans: it’s a big day. We’ve got another fan-favorite character joining the roster for our upcoming 3v3 tag fighting game, Invincible VS, and this one is out of this world – literally. Adding to our stacked lineup of characters like Mark Grayson (Invincible), Rex Splode, Omni-Man, Ella Mental and more, comes everyone’s favorite intergalactic, one-eyed hero, Allen the Alien!
We know fans have been eagerly awaiting confirmation that Allen is coming to Invincible VS, and we’re so excited to finally make it official with a uniquely animated trailer to accompany the news. But once you check that out, you’ll find that’s not all we have for you…
In addition to our Allen the Alien reveal, we’re excited to announce that our Open Beta is coming to Xbox Series X|S on April 9! The Open Beta invites players to jump in, throw down and find their early favorite fighter, as we’ll have 10 characters from our roster to choose from: Mark Grayson (Invincible), Atom Eve, Bulletproof, Thula, Rex Splode, Battle Beast, Omni Man, Robot, Monster Girl and of course, Allen the Alien. Now, more about him…
Born in a Unopan breeding facility, Allen the Alien was the sole success in a mission to create a warrior strong enough to face the all-powerful Viltrumite race. Despite the weight of his origins, Allen is quite the jokester, cracking quippy one-liners in between punches. Through his service to the Coalition of Planets, he has proven himself one of Invincible’s greatest allies in the fight against the Empire. And even when enemies think Allen is near death, he always seems to come back stronger.
In Invincible VS, Allen is an immensely powerful “Striker” fighter, using his mobility, superhuman strength and grappling ability to downright beat up anyone who stands in his way. He keeps opponents on their heels with his incredible Unopan strength, and excels in mix-up scenarios where he can bait fighters and hit them with his armored stance. Allen’s high-octane gameplay style can be tricky to master, but doing so will result in flashy, creative combos that leave any and all challengers in his wake.
Like you, we’re all big fans of Allen here at Quarter Up. He’s undeniably funny, but at the same time, he is a serious threat to his foes, and that is 100% evident in our game.
“Allen is an important piece of the Invinciblepuzzle and he’s going to be having a huge spring betweenseason four of the animated series and Invincible VS,” said Robert Kirkman, co-creator of Invincible. “He’s got the jokes, but he backs up his sharp wit with even sharper hits and leaves opponents looking like the punchline. We’re really excited to see what players can do with him in our Open Beta soon.”
We hope you’re gearing up to throw down as Allen and plenty others from the Invincible VS roster as we approach our Open Beta very soon. Let’s see what you got!
Players can head to the Xbox Store on April 9 to jump into the Invincible VS Open Beta on Xbox Series X|S.
Invincible VSlaunches on April 30, 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud as an Xbox Play Anywhere title, and is available for pre-order now at invinciblevs.com/#preorder.
Pre-order now to get the following digital content:
– Zero-Suit Mark Skin
– Year 1 Character Pass
– Profile Card Cosmetics
Invincible VS is a brutal superhero 3v3 tag fighting game set in the Invincible universe, where you can battle to the death as a team of fan-favorite characters in iconic locations. Unleash bone-breaking combos through fast combat and smart defensive tactics to leave a trail of blood and destruction. Land vicious Super moves and Ultimates to leave your opponents in a mess of blood.
Invincible VS features a variety of game modes including a captivating cinematic story mode with an original narrative from a writer of the animated series. Jump into Arcade and battle with your team, hone your combos in Training mode, and test your skills against the world in competitive and casual multiplayer. Show, comic fans, and fighting game lovers will experience unparalleled heroic brutality, where every earth-shattering blow will leave you feeling… Invincible.
This is the debut title from the newly formed Quarter Up—the first in-house studio at Skybound—led by former members of the core Killer Instinct (2013) dev team.
Pre-order now to get the following digital content:
– Zero-Suit Mark Skin
Invincible VS is a brutal superhero 3v3 tag fighting game set in the Invincible universe, where you can battle to the death as a team of fan-favorite characters in iconic locations. Unleash bone-breaking combos through fast combat and smart defensive tactics to leave a trail of blood and destruction. Land vicious Super moves and Ultimates to leave your opponents in a mess of blood.
Invincible VS features a variety of game modes including a captivating cinematic story mode with an original narrative from a writer of the animated series. Jump into Arcade and battle with your team, hone your combos in Training mode, and test your skills against the world in competitive and casual multiplayer. Show, comic fans, and fighting game lovers will experience unparalleled heroic brutality, where every earth-shattering blow will leave you feeling… Invincible.
This is the debut title from the newly formed Quarter Up—the first in-house studio at Skybound—led by former members of the core Killer Instinct (2013) dev team.
The Black Spades Preview is Available Today for Xbox Insiders!
Tim, Xbox Program Manager
Are you ready to play Spades? We’re excited to partner with Konsole Kingz and invite all Xbox Insiders on Xbox Series X|S to join the Black Spades Preview starting today. Join to give the team your feedback to help them refine and polish the game before release. This preview is an integral part of the development process, and we are delighted that you’ll be a part of it. Space is limited — reserve your spot today!
About the Game:
Yep, that’s right! Spades the way your friends and family play at home, college, reunions, and holiday get-togethers! The only spades game with Jokers, Deuces, and Reneg calling!
Black Spades was created for spades players on all levels. From the beginner playing at home to the expert playing on the go, our game was designed to get you straight to the action with no gimmicks.
Show off your spades skills to friends and family, then share them with the world!
How to Participate:
Sign-in on your Xbox Series X|S console and launch the Xbox Insider Hub app (or install the Xbox Insider Hub from the Store first if necessary)
Navigate to Previews > Black Spades
Select Join
Wait for the registration to complete and be directed to the Store and install Black Spades da Demo!
NOTE: Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
NOTE: This playtest is only available on Xbox Series X|S consoles.
How to Provide Feedback:
If you experience any issues while playing Black Spades, don’t forget to use “Report a problem” so we can investigate:
Hold down the home button on your Xbox controller.
Select Report a problem.
Select the Games category and Black Spades da Demo! subcategory.
Fill out the form with the appropriate details to help our investigation.
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.
A werebear commando in a supernatural WWII tactics game — meet Wojtek.
Based on a real bear who served in the Polish Army and was promoted to corporal.
Play today and see history’s wildest true story reimagined.
Meet Wojtek, Sumerian Six‘s Most Loveable War Machine
Sumerian Six is a tactical stealth game set in an alternate-history World War II, where a squad of supernatural operatives is sent behind enemy lines to stop a Nazi occult programme. It’s a game full of colourful characters, but one stands head and shoulders – and several hundred kilograms – above the rest: Wojtek, a Polish soldier who also happens to be a werebear. In combat, he can shift freely between his human form, where he brings stealth, dexterity, and tactical thinking to the mission, and his bear form, where subtlety goes out the window and raw, unstoppable force takes over. He’s one of those characters who earns his place in a roster immediately – the moment you realise you can send a shapeshifting bear crashing through a German patrol, the game has you. But as wonderfully over-the-top as a werebear soldier sounds, the real story that inspired him is somehow even better.
The Real Wojtek: A Bear Who Actually Enlisted
It’s 1943, somewhere in Iran. A group of Polish soldiers – exiles fighting their way across the Middle East after escaping Soviet labor camps – encounter a young boy with a bear cub in a burlap sack. His mother had been killed by hunters. In exchange for a Swiss Army knife, some canned beef, and a bit of chocolate, the soldiers took him in. They named him Wojtek, a Polish diminutive meaning, brilliantly, “joyful warrior.”
They fed the tiny cub condensed milk from an empty vodka bottle. They wrestled with him, shared their rations, and let him ride in the front seat of their trucks. Wojtek, for his part, took to military life immediately – he marched in formation on his hind legs, learned to salute, and picked up a few of his comrades’ less wholesome habits along the way, including a taste for beer and a fondness for eating cigarettes whole (he never quite got the hang of the smoking part).
By the time the 22nd Artillery Supply Company prepared to ship out to Italy, Wojtek had grown into a full-sized Syrian brown bear. This created a small bureaucratic problem: the British transport ship forbade mascots and animals. The Polish soldiers’ solution was wonderfully straightforward – they simply enlisted him. Wojtek was drafted as a private, given a serial number and a paybook, and officially listed among the soldiers of the company. No one, apparently, questioned this.
The Battle of Monte Cassino: Where Legends Are Made
In May 1944, the Allied forces faced one of the most punishing battles of the entire Italian campaign – the assault on Monte Cassino, a fortified German stronghold perched atop a mountain that had already repelled three previous attacks. The Polish II Corps was tasked with taking the summit.
During the battle, Wojtek did something that would cement his place in history. Watching the men around him haul heavy crates of artillery ammunition through the chaos, he simply started doing the same. He carried 25-pound artillery shells in crates that would normally take four men to move, hauling load after load without dropping a single one. Whether through mimicry, solidarity, or some combination of both, he had decided his unit needed help – and he helped.
After the Polish victory, Wojtek was promoted to corporal. The 22nd Company adopted the image of a bear carrying an artillery shell as their official emblem, printed on vehicles, pennants, and uniforms. One of the most decorated units of the Italian campaign went into battle under the banner of their bear.
After the war, when Poland fell under Soviet control and most of the soldiers could not safely return home, Wojtek came with his unit to Scotland. He spent his retirement at Edinburgh Zoo, where former soldiers regularly visited, tossing him cigarettes over the fence and speaking to him in Polish – which he reportedly still responded to. One story tells of a man who brought a violin to the zoo and played a Polish mazurek, and Wojtek, the old soldier, began to sway. He died in 1963, aged 21, weighing nearly 500 kilograms. Statues in his honour now stand in Edinburgh, Warsaw, Kraków, Cassino, and beyond.
From History to Sumerian Six: The Joyful Warrior, Reimagined
It’s not hard to see why the developers reached for Wojtek when building their ensemble of supernatural WWII operatives. The real bear was already almost mythological – loyal beyond reason, absurdly capable, as comfortable among soldiers as he was being a bear. All Sumerian Six had to do was lean into what was already there and add a touch of the supernatural.
The game’s Wojtek carries forward the spirit of his real-world counterpart in both directions. In human form, he brings the intelligence and adaptability that the historical Wojtek showed just by existing in a military unit and figuring things out – from carrying ammunition to learning the camp routines. In bear form, he channels the raw physical force and the undeniable presence of a 500-kilogram creature that once singlehandedly improved Allied logistics at Monte Cassino. The ability to switch between the two isn’t just a cool mechanic; it’s a portrait of an animal who was always a little bit of both – a bear who thought like a soldier, and a soldier who happened to be a bear.
The real Wojtek’s story resonated so deeply because it captured something true about loyalty, about belonging to something bigger than yourself, and about the unexpected places where courage shows up. A shapeshifting werebear fighting Nazis in a supernatural commando unit is, in the most sincere way possible, exactly the kind of sequel he deserves.
Want to see Wojtek in action for yourself? Sumerian Sixis available now — and whether you’re in it for the story, the tactical gameplay, or simply the joy of sending a werebear through a Nazi checkpoint, there’s something in it for you.
Lead an unlikely team of commando scientists behind enemy lines to fight Nazis, uncover arcane mysteries, and wield experimental technology to turn the tide of WWII in this real-time tactical stealth adventure.
Sumerian Six follows the Enigma Squad, a team of commandos composed of the world’s greatest scientists who combine their skills to conduct secret missions in their fight against the Third Reich. Together, you seek to thwart ex-member Hans Kammler’s nefarious plans involving a powerful, mystical substance named Geiststoff.
Embark on a thrilling journey across multiple continents alongside allies such as the exiled chemist Rosa Reznick, Wojtek the Werebear, and the esoteric psychoanalyst Siegfried von Adelsberg. Dispose of your enemies by using each team member’s unique set of abilities inspired by their fields of expertise, and learn to master the art of chaining them together for devastating effects if you hope to be successful.
As you delve deeper into the Nazi plot, you’ll encounter occult-scientific weapons and ancient Sumerian artifacts linked to Kammler’s machinations. A grim future awaits you should the Nazis be victorious, so do your best to prevent that dark timeline from coming true in this real-time tactical stealth adventure.
Demon Nazis
Led by Hans Kammler, a former member of your Squad, the Nazis tap into the occult to create the ultimate Wunderwaffe. Face off against heavily armed, mutated, and supernaturally charged forces, and put your strategic abilities and dexterity to the ultimate test.
Playful Violence Meets Super Science
Sneak your way around Nazi strongholds and dispatch the ever-present watchmen in a variety of ways before taking on the more serious threats before you. Combine your team’s dynamic powers in creative displays of tactical might.
Travel the World
Inspired by real places and events, Sumerian Six takes you on a journey through an alternate history where folk stories and conspiracy theories are as real as the Nazi threat.
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!
FATAL FRAME II: Crimson Butterfly REMAKE Digital Deluxe Edition
This Japanese-style horror adventure game follows twin sisters who become lost in an abandoned village haunted by vengeful spirits. Using the Camera Obscura—a device that can capture and seal away the impossible—they fight ghosts as the story unfolds. This title has undergone a complete overhaul, with improvements to everything from visuals and audio to the core gameplay systems and controls.
Monster Hunter Stories is an RPG series set in the Monster Hunter world, where you can become a Rider, raising and bonding with your favorite monsters. Azuria and Vermeil: two countries, on a path to destruction. When all hope seems lost, an egg is found. Born from the egg is not a single Rathalos, but twins, bearing the Skyscale marking that hearkens back to the disastrous civil war of 200 years prior. The natural world teeters on the verge of destruction, with countless monster species facing extinction. In the shadow of these dark times, the flames of war rekindle. A Rider and their trusted Rathalos, buffeted by the winds of fate, set out on a journey for the truth.
Run the world’s greatest show your way and live out your WWE fandom to the fullest. Experience the most expansive gameplay to date with rebellious Legends of the Attitude Era and Superstars of today. Featuring the most stacked lineup in franchise history with 400+ playable WWE Superstars and Legends, including The Rock, Triple H, John Cena, Rhea Ripley, and fan-favorites like Rey Fénix, Rusev, and Blake Monroe. Rewrite wrestling history and relive CM Punk’s greatest rivalries in a world where The Voice of the Voiceless never left, including fantasy historical scenarios. Punk’s rise, rebellion, and return make this the most personal Showcase yet.
MLB® The Show 26 – Digital Deluxe Edition (Pre-Order)
Make your mark. Become a Legend. Own The Show. Step up and take control of how you leave your mark in the most immersive MLB The Show yet. Discover new Road To The Show mechanics, deeper Franchise experiences, enhanced customization options, and true-to-life on-field action. Pre-order to receive a Gold Choice Pack and Early Access on March 13.
GreedFall: The Dying World is a narrative-driven RPG. The story takes you to the far reaches of a vast fantasy world, inspired by 17th century Europe. Create your character: appearance, attributes, talents, abilities. Then dive into a rich adventure, meeting many allies who will prove vital in overcoming the dangers that await you. As you progress, every choice you make influences the course of events, every alliance you forge has real consequences, and every decision can change the fate of the world.
John Carpenter’s Toxic Commando – Blood Edition (Pre-order)
In the near future, an experimental attempt to harness the power of the Earth’s core ends in a terrifying disaster: the release of the Sludge God. Take control of one of the commandos, team up with your friends and send the Sludge God and its horde of things-that-should-never-be back to the underworld. Choose the class that matches your playstyle, pile into your favorite ride, and unload an array of gunfire, grenades, special abilities, and freaking katanas as you save the planet.
Catch the wave of tranquility in Crabwave, a relaxing puzzle where a stylish crab surfs across islands, bringing life wherever he goes. Connect water streams, plan the perfect route, and plant coconuts to transform beaches, reefs, and mangroves into vibrant paradises.
All 5 games are fast-paced and controlled with a single button. In R Wheel, try to survive inside a spinning wheel with spikes. In Divarr, your goal is to knock the enemy bombs down and avoid hitting your allies. In Throw M, you are flying on a balloon which is constantly going up and down. In Wiper, you are in charge of a wiper and your goal is to clean the windscreen from all the raindrops. In D Missile, your goal is to launch missiles and shoot down enemy projectiles falling from the top.
A first-person psychological horror where you play as Vera, locked inside a nightmare born from your family’s broken past. Restore memories, solve puzzles, and face what you tried to forget. It must end, before you do. Caught between dreams and memories, you search for what should have been forgotten. As fragments of your family’s tragedy surface, they poison your mind and intertwine with your memories, distorting the dream into something increasingly horrific. In this nightmare, everything feels connected – bound by guilt, sorrow, and something far darker you cannot yet comprehend.
1 CatLine – March 11 Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere
Master puzzling stages with the help of your 2D feline companion! Welcome to 1 CatLine, a brainteasing precision platformer where you must guide a daring and adventurous heroine through single-screen challenges, with 50 unique levels spanning a variety of colorful pixel art biomes.
The Hidden Cats are back to explore the whispers and shadows of the mysterious Spooky Village! Find over 1200 hidden objects across 12 levels, collect special cards, and discover real-life cats shared by our Hidden Cats community!
Welcome to Parkour Labs, a vaporwave-inspired parkour game. Surf the waves of nostalgia and retro aesthetics, sliding down ramps and performing smooth turns. Explore colorful and surreal landscapes inspired by the culture, music, and art of the 80s and 90s. Collect glitch effects and artifacts to unlock new levels and secrets. Experience the synthwave atmosphere in this unique and original game that challenges your mouse control and movement skills.
Temari Trials: Dojo’s Test is a logic-focused puzzle game with charming pixel art where you guide a clever fox pushing temaris toward locked chests. Every hit removes a lock, and when a chest is fully unlocked, the level is cleared. Temaris can also push each other, allowing creative setups and surprising solutions for players who enjoy Japanese aesthetics and clever problem-solving.
Get ready for an intense adventure alongside Claudinho, a brave little cloud who battles wildfires to protect the Amazon rainforest and other Brazilian ecosystems! A Clareira is a 2D shoot ’em up game. Your mission is to launch raindrops, extinguish fires, collect power-ups, and overcome obstacles in increasingly challenging stages that will put your reflexes and strategy to the test. Stay alert: powerful bosses will appear along the journey — prepare yourself and save Brazil’s ecosystems!
Bubblegum Galaxy is a cozy narrative building game about rebuilding the galaxy by designing planets. Relax as you create colorful planets or spend hours trying to get a perfect score! Your small but trusty computer will allow you to design planets by placing tiles. To create efficient planets, the software will suggest missions such as connecting similarly colored tiles or a specific number of trees. Each planet has its own quirks and special rules you will have to master to do your best work yet!
Step into the forest and unwind in Claim the Forest: Shape of Wolves, a cozy puzzle game where adorable wolf-shaped pieces must fit perfectly onto the board. Pick up the pieces drifting calmly on river boats, rotate them, test positions, and discover the right combination to fill every single space. With 30 charming levels, the game blends just the right amount of challenge with a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Boards vary in size and shape, asking for attention, logic, and a sharp eye to make sure no corner is left empty.
Wrap your head (and cable) around Robot Detour’s numerous puzzles! Deliver batteries to your robot friends, avoid enemies and gain a deeper understanding of the intricate rules and mechanisms of the game’s world.
An evil Necromancer has brought ruin upon an already dangerous island. It’s up to Rynna to fight her way through hordes of monsters and undead beings, and defeat the Necromancer and his minions and free the souls of those who have been trapped in the world of the living. Find Weapons and Artifacts, explore the 20 zones, each dividing into multiple caves and dungeons. Help the people by finding their possessions and freeing their souls.
Zumba – Galactic Marble Blast propels you into a vibrant sci-fi universe where you, a brave spacefrog, must fend off waves of rolling marbles—and occasionally rogue planets—before they vanish into the void. Select a star system, position your frog-powered cannon at the screen’s center, and launch colorful marbles or planets along winding orbital paths. Match three or more identical spheres to trigger spectacular explosions, pause the advance, and rack up combos for massive scores.
Slime your way though this platforming adventure about a brave little slime in a vast magical kingdom. The evil menace known as Lord Old Skull has been freed, and now our colorful family of slimes must heed the call of heroism. Customize your slime, journey through diverse biomes, battle powerful bosses, and discover alternative branching paths in this slime-sized action quest. Choose your level of challenge while gaining items, building experience, and enjoying immersive retro graphics and sounds.
Deckline is an atmospheric war-horror card game. Out of ammo and encircled, you play one last game of Durak to distract from the inevitable. Experience the grit and dread of modern combat through the lens of a board game. Your command has abandoned you. With all resources depleted and no hope of rescue, you and your squad gather for one last game of Durak. With death closing in, you shuffle the deck, clinging to the memories of laughter and camaraderie. Now, it’s all that remains.
Don’t Mess With Bober is an atmospheric first-person horror game inspired by 1980s classics, where a seemingly innocent vacation turns into a nightmare. A small mistake during your holiday can unleash the wrath of an enraged Beaver seeking revenge. Immerse yourself in a chilling experience filled with tension, suspense, and classic horror elements.
Nordic Ashes is a challenging Norse-inspired roguelite-survivor game, where you’ll have to survive hordes of creatures that come your way. Unlock new weapons and abilities as you battle. Upgrade your characters’ stats with Constellation Ability Trees, equip yourself with powerful relics and slay your enemies before they surround you, or it may be too late…
Stillbone is a platformer with a tactical twist: enemies only move when you do. Control a brave little skeleton exploring ancient dungeons and mysterious forests, where every step counts and every jump must be calculated with care. Blending the rhythm of a platformer with the planning of a puzzle, Stillbone delivers a unique experience, where standing still can be just as powerful as moving fast.
Technotopia – March 13 Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere
Welcome to Technotopia, a city-builder card game. Take on the role of an AI designed to build a perfect city. Build districts, meet the needs of diverse communities and maintain the delicate balance between factions vying for control over you!
Explore the open world of a fictitious American Midwest and survive the harsh environment. Convince other settlers to join you and manage your ever-growing settlements. Build a home, take care of your farm and become a legend in Wild West Legacy.
Fresh Looks at Pragmata, Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection and More in Capcom Spotlight 2026
Joseph Bustos, Social Media & Community Manager, Capcom USA
Today, Capcom Spotlight shared exciting news and updates for Capcom’s packed line-up of games, with a little something for everyone. We’re proud to share new info ranging from returning franchises like Monster Hunter, to completely new titles like Pragmata, and more! Read on for the details.
Hack Deeper into the Mysterious World of Pragmata
Capcom Spotlight debuted a stunning new look at the long-awaited sci-fi action-adventure game, Pragmata. Additionally, we’re happy to announce the updated release date for the game, which now lands one week earlier on April 17, 2026!
Have a look at the new trailer, which includes a look at a new friend that will help guide you while you’re in the Shelter.
Pre-order Pragmata ahead of launch on Xbox Series X|S and check out the Deluxe Edition for some extra in-game costumes, rare digital artwork, and more.
If you haven’t tried the game yet, check out the Pragmata Sketchbook Demo to try out the game’s unique mix of hacking and shooting. Be sure to complete it multiple times to uncover its secrets and different endings.
The gameplay demo, Sketchbook, lets you try out this combat system that engages both sides of your brain, while you also get to experience what it’s like to traverse the lunar research station.
*This demo supports English and Japanese voice.
*Some in-game features may differ from the full game.
*Ray tracing is not supported on Xbox Series S.
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection Launches March 13!
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection arrives next week, reaching new heights for this turn-based, story-rich RPG story set in the world of Monster Hunter. Have a look at the game’s launch trailer, which delves further into the deep and dramatic story that awaits.
Two countries, twin Rathalos. One Rider and their trusted Rathalos, alongside their companions, must navigate the conflict between these two Azuria and Vermeil, all while the looming disaster of the Crystal Encroachment threatens the world.
As you get ready for launch, here’s a rundown of the various bonuses you can get. Players with save data for past Monster Hunter games can get special layered armor for the protagonist.
Monster Hunter Wilds save data – Hope Layered Armor set
Monster Hunter Stories save data – Hakum Rider Outfit
Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin save data – Mahana Rider Outfit
Monster Hunter Rise save data – Kamura Garb
Additionally, linking your Capcom ID account will allow you to receive the adorable Catcom Works outfit for Rudy! We’re also releasing two free cosmetic DLCs at launch: the Gold Circlet accessory for the protagonist, and the Wind Wyvern’s Friend Layered Armor for Simon.
Interested in giving the game a test ride? Try out the content packed Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection demo now for free and transfer your save data to the full version at launch!
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection Trial Version
This is the trial version of Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection.
You can play the beginning portion of the game for free.
Save data will transfer to the full version.
The third entry in the Monster Hunter Stories RPG series is here!
Twin Rathalos, born in a twist of fate.
Monster Hunter Stories is an RPG series set in the Monster Hunter world, where you can become a Rider, raising and bonding with your favorite monsters.
The Story
Azuria and Vermeil: two countries, on a path to destruction.
When all hope seems lost, an egg is found. Inside is a Rathalos, a species thought to be extinct.
But this quavering light of hope is quickly extinguished, giving way to the darkness of despair.
Born from the egg is not a single Rathalos, but twins, bearing the Skyscale marking that hearkens back to the disastrous civil war of 200 years prior.
The natural world teeters on the verge of destruction, with countless monster species facing extinction. In the shadow of these dark times, the flames of war rekindle.
Two countries, and two Rathalos.
A Rider and their trusted Rathalos, buffeted by the winds of fate, set out on a journey for the truth.
Online Features Revealed for Mega Man Star Force Collection
Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection arrives on Xbox Series X|S on March 26! Capcom Spotlight showed off the collection’s new online features, including the ability to search across all three titles to find a match quickly, or choose between Friend, Casual and Ranked Match based on your preference.
Trading and the Brother List features have been improved in this collection as well. Choose a card and trade it with your partner to acquire the cards you’re looking for! With the Brother List, you can add up to one hundred Brothers per game, a big improvement over the original limit of six.
Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection – Geo Stelar and Omega-Xis Character Model Pack Pre-order Bonus
This product includes selectable character models of Geo Stelar (casual outfit) and Omega-Xis for the Main Menu.
Special arrangements for four music tracks are also included for the Music Player.
Note: This pre-order bonus may also become available at a later date.
*This pre-order bonus is available until March 26, 2026, 23:59 (local time).
The Mega Man Star Force series, which expanded into an anime, is back in the Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection! This collection includes seven games and additional features like a gallery of illustrations and music! Online play is also supported!
The following titles are included in the collection:
Mega Man Star Force Pegasus
Mega Man Star Force Leo
Mega Man Star Force Dragon
Mega Man Star Force 2 Zerker x Ninja
Mega Man Star Force 2 Zerker x Saurian
Mega Man Star Force 3 Black Ace
Mega Man Star Force 3 Red Joker
It is the year 220X, and the world has seen rapid advancements in Wave technology. Our protagonist, 11-year-old Geo Stelar, refuses to go to school as he mourns the disappearance of his astronaut father.
One night, Geo is at the observatory gazing at stars as he usually does. Suddenly, his Transer picks up a signal from space and he is hit with a powerful electric shock!
When he finally comes to, an alien with an electromagnetic wave body called Omega-Xis is standing over him…
Note: The toy link features found in the original versions are not supported.
Alex Makes His Entrance in Street Fighter 6 on March 17!
The dark devil himself, Alex, steps into the ring as part of Street Fighter 6 Year 3 on March 17! Alex uses pro wrestling techniques, overpowering and overwhelming opponents both in and outside of the squared circle.
Motion capture for Alex was performed by the legendary pro wrestler, Kenny Omega, adding authentic touches to his walk-out sequences, Super Arts, and more! JAM Project also contributed an original track for Alex called “Go! Alex! Hope is Born! – Alex’s Theme”! In anticipation of Alex’s release, the Alex Arrives! Fighting Pass will bring exciting content across each game mode.
Finally, the swimsuit series of outfits continue with Outfit 4 for Dee Jay and Elena, also launching alongside Alex! Even though it might not be sunny weather, these two outfits are sure to heat things up.
Here comes Capcom’s newest challenger! Street Fighter 6 launches worldwide on June 2nd, 2023 and represents the next evolution of the series.
Powered by Capcom’s proprietary RE ENGINE, the Street Fighter 6 experience spans across three distinct game modes featuring World Tour, Fighting Ground and Battle Hub.
Diverse Roster of 18 Fighters
Play legendary masters and new fan favorites like Ryu, Chun-Li, Luke, Jamie, Kimberly and more in this latest edition with each character featuring striking new redesigns and exhilarating cinematic specials.
Dominate the Fighting Ground
Street Fighter 6 offers a highly evolved combat system with three control types – Classic, Modern and Dynamic – allowing you to quickly play to your skill level.
The new Real Time Commentary Feature adds all the hype of a competitive match as well as easy-to-understand explanations about your gameplay.
The Drive Gauge is a new system to manage your resources. Use it wisely in order to claim victory.
Explore the Streets in World Tour
Discover the meaning of strength in World Tour, an immersive, single-player story mode. Take your avatar and explore Metro City and beyond. Meet Masters who will take you under their wing and teach you their style and techniques.
Seek Rivals in the Battle Hub
The Battle Hub represents a core mode of Street Fighter 6 where players can gather and communicate, and become stronger together. Use the avatar you create in World Tour to check out cabinets on the Battle Hub floor and play against other players, or head over to the Game Center to enjoy some of Capcom’s classic arcade games.
Your path to becoming a World Warrior starts here.
Online Play
Capcom provides various online services for this game, including online-only content.
* Certain elements of this game cannot be accessed without an internet connection.
* A Capcom ID is required to use online-only content.
* For information on the services related to Capcom ID and how to use it, please visit the official Capcom ID website (https://cid.capcom.com/). Please note that there may be cases wherein use of Capcom ID is age-restricted.
* For online-only content, a separate paid membership service (Game Pass Core) is required.
* Capcom may temporarily suspend online services in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
10 Tips To Help You Survive Your First Runs in Marathon, Available Today on Xbox Series X|S
Nikki Brown, Principal Communications Manager, Bungie
Summary
Enter the world of Marathon’s Tau Ceti IV, a planet full of rival Runners and hazardous environments.
Scavenge for valuables, experiment with different gear, and build uneasy alliances.
Marathonis available today via the Microsoft Store on Xbox Series X|S.
Starting today on Xbox Series X|S, you can begin scavenging the planet of Tau Ceti IV as a cybernetic mercenary in the new survival extraction shooter, Marathon.
From Bungie, the makers of Halo and Destiny, Marathon places you the shoes of a Runner where you can crew up, run solo, or make uneasy alliances as you battle enemy players, collect powerful loot, and experience Bungie’s signature gunplay.
Your goal is to exfil to advance your seasonal power, advance your contracts for rival faction groups, and assemble stronger builds with your stolen loot. Then put your gear back on the line to seek even greater fortunes in your next run. The ultimate challenge? The derelict Marathon ship hanging in orbit above, promising the best loot and answers to world’s mysteries… if you can survive.
Ready to touchdown on Tau Ceti? Use these tips to get ahead:
They Can Hear You Everything makes noise. Moving, looting, activating exfils, opening doors, using items, healing, swapping weapons, and of course shooting things. If you think you got killed out of nowhere, someone probably found you through the noise you were making.
…But You Can Hear Them Keep your ears open. You can often hear threats—or targets—before you see them.
Come Prepared Bring plenty of ammo and healing items; you aren’t going to find a lot of it mid-run. And remember: A better weapon is only an upgrade if you have bullets to shoot.
Plan Your Exit All the gear you’ve collected is lost if you don’t make it out alive. Check your map for active exfils — they’re your ticket off Tau Ceti with your hard-earned loot.
Fight or Flee? The best Runners know when to take the shot and when to walk away. You don’t need to shoot everything you see. Whether it’s a UESC combatant, wild fauna, or a rival Runner crew, use the information you’ve got before you pull the trigger.
Down on Your Luck? Play as Rook If you’re low on supplies, head on a scavenger run as Rook. You’ll drop into a match in-progress as a solo player. Sneak by enemy UESC units with your camouflage ability, then make it alive with your scavenged goods to replenish your gear and credits.
Progress Your Contracts and Unlock Bonus Stats You can hover over contracts on the map for information on how to find their objectives. But if you’re still learning, don’t rush them right away — playing slow can help you get your bearings and avoid conflicts with rival crews until you’re ready.
Built for Success Experiment with different Runner shells, body implants, and weapons — you can freely swap weapons, implants, and weapon mods both in and out of game. And something is always better than nothing, so if you’ve got an empty slot, slam whatever you find.
Uneasy Allies Build alliances with the Runner crews, solo players, and Rooks you meet on your runs. Just don’t let your guard down — you never know when your new friends might turn their sights on you.
Loot is a Means to an End Gear comes and goes. Don’t be too precious about it. Learn to use what you’ve got, and it will help you reach greater heights.
Runners are deploying now. Take your new knowledge and use it to get ahead of your opponents on your first runs in Marathon, available today on Xbox Series X|S. Tau Ceti awaits.
Infil into the dark sci-fi world of Tau Ceti IV: A derelict colony rife with rival Runners, hostile UESC security forces, and hazardous environments. As you scavenge its zones for valuables with a crew or alone, tense moments of exploration break into fast-paced PvP combat where gunplay is responsive, time to kill is low, and preparation is rewarded.
Exfil to advance your seasonal power, earn cosmetics for your achievements, and assemble stronger builds with your stolen loot. Then put your gear back on the line to seek even greater fortunes in your next run.
Pre-order Marathon and receive the following:
ZERO STEP 004 [CE Tactical Sidearm Style]
ZERO STEP RC [Weapon Charm]
ZERO STEP SHIFT [Weapon Sticker]
APOGEE INTERCEPT [Background]
APOGEE INTERCEPT [Emblem]
Plus the following Destiny 2 rewards linked to your Bungie.net account:
UESC Echo-type Shell Exotic Ghost
UESC Rover Exotic Ship
UESC Sprinter Exotic Sparrow
Hard drive storage requirements are subject to change. Requires broadband internet.
Access requires an Xbox Game Pass subscription (sold separately).
Marathon may contain flashing patterns and images that may produce adverse effects for a small percentage of people sensitive to them.
Bungie, Inc. makes no guarantee regarding the availability of online play or features and may modify or discontinue online services with reasonable notice at any time.
Using the software constitutes acceptance of the Software License Agreement available at www.bungie.net/sla.
Infil into the dark sci-fi world of Tau Ceti IV: A derelict colony rife with rival Runners, hostile UESC security forces, and hazardous environments. As you scavenge its zones for valuables with a crew or alone, tense moments of exploration break into fast-paced PvP combat where gunplay is responsive, time to kill is low, and preparation is rewarded.
Exfil to advance your seasonal power, earn cosmetics for your achievements, and assemble stronger builds with your stolen loot. Then put your gear back on the line to seek even greater fortunes in your next run.
A GRAVEYARD OF POSSIBILITIES
Trespass across deserted research facilities, rugged landscapes, and security outposts holding the remnants of a vanished expedition, yours to salvage. Tau Ceti threatens death at every turn with unique enemies, dynamic events, and environmental hazards. Each zone escalates in difficulty, preparing you for the UESC Marathon locked in the heavens.
POWERFUL. CONFIGURABLE. EXPENDABLE.
Six equippable Runner shells offer diverse playstyle foundations to build upon, like Destroyer, Recon, and Thief. Scavenge an arsenal of moddable weapons, body implants, and core system upgrades to craft countless builds. Strategize as a crew each run to form comps that maximize your combined strengths, shaping the way you approach fights and objectives.
ENEMIES EVERYWHERE
Face the unknown as a crew of two or three, or alone in solo lobbies. Or sneak into in-progress crew lobbies as Rook, a lone scavenger with no starting gear and nothing to lose. Forge uneasy alliances with rival Runners in prox chat to defeat mutual foes, but remember your new allies might revert to enemies just as quickly. Be merciless in combat: A lone survivor can reboot their crew, even from death.
Later in Season 1, compete in Rated mode to measure your skill and build a name for yourself.
INFLUENCE IS POWER
Liaise with six competing factions, each offering lucrative incentives to advance their foothold on Tau Ceti. Completing faction contracts grows your baseline power via season-long unlocks like Runner shell upgrades, stronger starting loadouts, expanded vault space, and specialized wares on offer for spare loot.
DEFRAGMENT THE TRUTH
No one knows what happened a century ago when the Marathon expedition went dark. As a trespasser into UESC territory, you are uniquely positioned to piece the story together. Unearth the skeletons of Tau Ceti’s past as you run deeper into the colony.
DEATH HANGS ABOVE
Once the way into orbit unlocks, bring your endgame build to Cryo Archive, the first floor of the UESC Marathon. Solve raid-like security measures to unseal frozen vaults and pillage the artifacts within. Every cramped corridor forces you into conflict with fully-geared enemy crews racing for the same prize. Breach the seventh vault to challenge an entity even the UESC fears.
Pre-order Marathon and receive the following:
ZERO STEP 004 [CE Tactical Sidearm Style]
ZERO STEP RC [Weapon Charm]
ZERO STEP SHIFT [Weapon Sticker]
APOGEE INTERCEPT [Background]
APOGEE INTERCEPT [Emblem]
Plus the following Destiny 2 rewards linked to your Bungie.net account:
UESC Echo-type Shell Exotic Ghost
UESC Rover Exotic Ship
UESC Sprinter Exotic Sparrow
Hard drive storage requirements are subject to change. Requires broadband internet.
Access requires an Xbox Game Pass subscription (sold separately).
Marathon may contain flashing patterns and images that may produce adverse effects for a small percentage of people sensitive to them.
Bungie, Inc. makes no guarantee regarding the availability of online play or features and may modify or discontinue online services with reasonable notice at any time.
Using the software constitutes acceptance of the Software License Agreement available at www.bungie.net/sla.
Messy Up: Unleash Pet Chaos on Xbox & Windows with Couch Co-op Fun
He Qian, Game Creator, Liquid Meow Games
Hey pet pals and mischief-makers! (Θ３Θ)
We’re Liquid Meow Games— a small team of students who turned our love for playful chaos into a game. We’re so excited to finally bring Messy Up to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows Store, complete with Xbox Play Anywhere support!
The Story Behind the Mess
Every game has a beginning, and ours started in a rather chaotic way—just like the game itself.
It all began with 72 hours and a Game Jam.
Back in 2021, I gathered a small crew of four or five teammates for a Game Jam. 72 hours of caffeine, crunch, and pure creative madness. The result? A rough but lovable prototype we called Messy Up. To our surprise, it won Best Technology Award.
The inspiration? Pretty simple actually. Most of us grew up with pets—a hyper Husky who saw couches as chew toys, a cat who believed gravity was the enemy of anything left on tables. We thought: What if we turned that daily chaos into a game? And here we are.
From 2D Pixels to 3D Furballs
After the Game Jam, I couldn’t let go of this little idea. So, we spent the next six months—nights, weekends, every spare minute—rebuilding everything from 2D into full 3D. New characters, richer environments, more ways to wreck the house.
Then something unexpected happened. We shared a short gameplay video online, just to see if anyone else thought this was as fun as we did. Overnight, it hit over a million views across platforms. People actually wanted to play as naughty pets.
That support kept us going. Along the way, the 3D version went on to receive multiple awards from major game competitions—a huge encouragement for a tiny team just starting out.
And Now, the Moment we’ve Been Waiting for
Today, we’re beyond excited to bring Messy Up to Xbox players everywhere. After years of dreaming, prototyping, and playtesting on couches just like yours, our little pet chaos simulator is finally landing on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows Store—with full Xbox Play Anywhere support, so you can take your mess wherever you go.
Whether you’re teaming up with friends on the couch or playing solo with AI companions, we can’t wait for you to meet this furry crew and start your own happy chaos.
Tips from Me (Read These, Seriously)
Don’t just rush in. Learn to dodge. And your teammates aren’t just there for emotional support—they’re great at taking the heat for you.
Tired of wrecking? Try the parkour challenges. Stuck in the story? Hop into Arcade Mode and just vibe.
Playing solo? AI teammates have your back. And wait until you unlock the beach, the castle, the office—each level has its own tricks.
Use props. Use the debris. Use anything to block the Owner.
Different pets, different playstyles. Unlock them all.
Those little rewards—photos, flags, trophies, certificates—they’re not just clutter. You can actually use them to decorate.
And yes, you can build your own home.
I made this game with a lot of laughs and even more love for fluffy troublemakers. Whether you’re here for the couch co-op chaos, the creative building, or just to live out your inner mischief-maker—I hope Messy Upbrings you and your friends some good silly memories.
“Messy UP” is a cute pet collaboration game featuring cats and dogs~
Due to the owner’s busy life after graduation and starting work, there is less time to spend with the pets. The pets plan to create a big mess at home to grab the owner’s attention and encourage them to spend more time together. After all, what mischief could a little dog possibly have in mind?
[Crazy home destruction!
Cooperative multiplayer!]
Take on the role of cats and dogs and go wild, wreaking havoc at home! Each pet possesses unique abilities and skills, with various types of pets waiting for you to explore~
When other pet companions are caught, you can go to rescue them~
Either cause mayhem alone or collaborate with friends to create trouble for the owner. Up to three players can cooperate in dismantling the house.
Play as either the owner or a pet, deciding whether to demolish or defend the furniture and lock up the mischievous pets.
[Rich game mechanics!
Numerous maps!]
Utilize various mechanisms to dismantle and destroy homes. Fans, soccer balls, doors, takeout food—everything around you can become your tool of destruction!
Whether it’s at home, on the beach, at the office, or in a castle, any place can become the target of the pets’ demolition！
[Abundant pets!
Extensive collection!]
Gather a group of adorable pet companions, each with their own distinct personalities that can be freely customized~
Collect photos, qualifications, prizes, keychains, and various unique and cute rewards await you~
Start Your Engines: EA Sports F1 25 is now on EA Play
Juliet Niczewicz, Senior Director, Corporate Communications, EA
Members get unlimited access to the base game, plus dozens more titles in The Play List, and a monthly 5,000 XP Boost.
Take on the world of racing in EA Sports F1 25, now available for EA Play members to access whenever they want.
EA Sports F1 25 is now on The Play List. Play with EA Play, available on Xbox Play Anywhere, Xbox PC Game Pass, or Ultimate.
Members can also grab this month’s 5,000 XP Boost, available until March 31.
Strap into the driver’s seat today before the 2026 season starts.
Write your own legendary racing story, lead your team, and explore new modes in the official video game of the 2025 FIA Formula One World Championship.
Take on the third chapter of Braking Point, where the legacy of Konnersport hangs in the balance as you and your team race for a spot in the World Championship.
Design your own liveries with customizable driver numbers and logos. Then show them off in newly updated, laser-scanned Grand Prix circuits.
March Member Rewards
Apex Legends
Pick up the Gold Copilot Weapon Charm, available until March 30
EA Sports F1 25
Get a 5,000 XP Boost, good for unlocking tiers of the Podium Pass, available until March 31
EA Sports FC 26
Play Clubs mode by March 12 to grab a special membership reward that’ll help you compete in style
Compete for rewards with a Football Ultimate Team Draft Token, available in Ultimate Team from March 12 – April 23
EA Sports Madden NFL 26
Keep building your dream team with a Madden Ultimate Team EA Play March Pack available until March 31
EA Sports NHL 26
Score 2 Season Pass Multiplier Tokens & 3,000 CHEL Coins by March 12
Show out on the ice with Season 4 WOC Battle Pass XP Modifier & CHEL Coins available from March 12 – May 7
Battlefield 6
Equip yourself with the Season 2 EA Play Pack, available until May 11
Deck out your soldiers before the fight when you claim your EA Play Deployment Pack
To learn more about EA Play, check out X and Instagram, or visit here. For more details on all the EA Play member benefits this month, visit the EA Play Member Benefits site. Conditions, limitations and exclusions apply. See EA Play Terms for details. Members can experience the world of EA with unlimited access to a collection of top titles, trials of select new games, in-game member rewards, 10% on EA digital purchases and more.
—the first in-house studio at Skybound—led by former members of the core Killer Instinct (2013) dev team.
