Free Play Days – Star Wars Jedi: Survivor and Headbangers: Rhythm Royale  

Let’s kick off May the right way with Free Play Days! Headbangers: Rhythm Royale is available this weekend for Xbox Game Pass Core and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members to play from Thursday May 2 at 12:01 a.m. PDT until Sunday, May 5 at 11:59 p.m. PDT.  

Additionally, Star Wars: Survivoris free to try for all Xbox members during the same time (Xbox Game Pass Core and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate not required) with a 5 hour gameplay trial.  

Game Pass Core will give players access to our advanced multiplayer network, a select collection of over 25 games to play with friends around the world, and exclusive member deals! Read more about Game Pass Core at Xbox Wire


How To Start Playing


Find and install the games on each of the individual game details page 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 Core or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate 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 and 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.


Free Play Days For All


Xbox Live

STAR WARS Jedi: Survivor™

Electronic Arts


586


$69.99

$31.49
Free Trial

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor 
The story of Cal Kestis continues in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor™, a third person galaxy-spanning action-adventure game from Respawn Entertainment, developed in collaboration with Lucasfilm Games. This narratively driven, single player title picks up five years after the events of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order™ and follows Cal’s increasingly desperate fight as the galaxy descends further into darkness. 


Free Play Days (Game Pass Core or Game Pass Ultimate Required)


Xbox Live

Headbangers: Rhythm Royale

Team17


223


$19.99

$15.99
PC Game Pass
Xbox Game Pass

Headbangers: Rhythm Royale
Ever wanted to be a dancing pigeon? Well, this is your chance. Headbangers: Rhythm Royale will see you and 29 other pigeons battle it out to find out who is the ultimate Master Headbanger. With Season 3 the game has been expanded to include a 1v1 mode alongside classic Royale gameplay. Take on a rival pigeon in a dance-off with a difference. Hit the beat, show off your moves, and utilize various powerups to get an edge over your feathered opponent. Songs get progressively more challenging, until finally, one pigeon fails and the survivor reigns victoriously. 


Don’t miss out on these exciting Free Play Days for Xbox Game Pass Core and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate 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. 

The post Free Play Days – Star Wars Jedi: Survivor and Headbangers: Rhythm Royale   appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Xbox Empowers Asian and Pacific Islander Communities with GameTan and NEEL

Xbox Empowers Asian and Pacific Islander Communities with GameTan and NEEL

Xbox sphere styled in recognition of Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage month featuring water, fire, and two characters from the Ramayana, Sukhrip and Madchanu on a stage with embroidered curtains.

Summary

  • Learn how Xbox is partnering with GameTan and NEEL.
  • Explore games curated by the Asian and Pacific Islander communities.
  • Discover how the Ramayana inspired the Xbox logo redesign.

The Asian and Pacific Islander communities have long been a vibrant and integral part of the global gaming ecosystem. Building upon the foundations laid in the early days of video game development, Xbox is proud to innovate in gaming spaces and champion beloved game titles thanks to the incredible work of developers and artists who identify as part of the Asian and Pacific Islander communities. The rich storytelling traditions, innovative technology, and unique artistic perspectives from these regions continue to enrich the gaming world, offering players a wide array of experiences that challenge, entertain, and inspire.

Developers often draw upon their lived experiences to help inform elements of their games. This is also true for many developers within the Asian and Pacific community, who will sometimes feature traditional folklore, art, and philosophy in games. This not only introduces gamers to new narratives and aesthetics but also promotes a greater understanding and appreciation of these cultures. Moreover, the rise of competitive gaming, or esports, has seen players from these communities rise to the top, showcasing their skills on the world stage and inspiring a new generation of gamers. We are also partnering with two nonprofits who live these values. They share our goal of sharing the joy of play and community across the globe and providing opportunities to students and those interested in the industry to learn and gain experience in the world of esports, technology, and game design.

The contributions of the Asian and Pacific Islander communities are not just limited to content creation. The community is also full of avid gamers, forming a significant portion of the player base and actively participating in online communities. Their feedback and engagement are crucial in shaping the development of games, ensuring they remain relevant and enjoyable for a global audience. Xbox is committed to supporting and celebrating the diversity within our community, recognizing that it is the blend of different cultures and ideas that drives innovation and makes the gaming world so dynamic and exciting.  After all, games allow players to feel seen, and can also be a tool for empathy and provide insights into underrepresented communities’ experiences. Here’s how we are supporting Asian and Pacific Islander communities this year:

GIVE

Xbox is Partnering with GameTan and Nevada Esports Education League

This year, Xbox is excited to announce our collaboration with two exceptional nonprofit organizations dedicated to enriching their communities through the power of gaming and esports education. These partnerships are a testament to our commitment to increasing representation and building empathy through the power of play. By working closely with these nonprofits, we aim to create inclusive spaces where the thrill of competition and the spirit of teamwork can thrive through the lens of Asian and Pacific Islander communities.

These nonprofits embody our core mission: to spread the joy of gaming far and wide, and to build strong, supportive networks of gamers within the Asian and Pacific Islander communities. This work is pivotal in unlocking new possibilities, as they expand gaming from mere entertainment into a pathway for educational and professional opportunities. Through these partnerships, we are opening doors to new experiences, empowering individuals with the skills and confidence to explore the dynamic world of esports and gaming, and fostering a community that celebrates underrepresented communities and inclusion. Read more about each organization below:

GameTan (Within HauTutū)Based in New Zealand, and working within the nonprofit HauTutu, GameTan provides kids the opportunity to learn and step into the world of gaming, esports, and technology. Through various events, and projects, they allow students to step into leadership roles and gain experience at a young age. They also host game clubs where they provide a space for the community to come together through food and video games. These game clubs also allow GameTan to help homeless children get a meal, build community, and also learn about opportunities within the gaming, esports, and tech industries. This year, Xbox will be providing a donation to support GameTan in furthering their mission and programs.

GameTan’s mission has 4 main pillars: 

  • “In order for our kids to change the future, we as teachers must change our approach.” 

Me aro ngā kaiako i ngā wawata o ngā tauira, kia mārama ngā tauira i te anamata 

  • Game-Led Learning: Where Fun Meets Future Skills 

Ako Ātea : Te tūtakitanga a tākaro me pūkenga ki te anamata 

  • Whānau-Centered Innovation: Tech for All 

Te auahatanga o te whānau: Mō te ao katoa te hangarau. 

  • Creating Career Pathways: From Local Talent to Global Leaders 

Whaohia te ara ki tua o paerangi: Ngā rangatira o te kainga, Ngā rangatira o te ao 

GameTan, where culture meets technology, and innovation knows no bounds. Together, we’re not just playing games; we’re changing the game. 

Nevada Esports Education League (NEEL)The Nevada Esports Education League (NEEL), Nevada’s sole nonprofit dedicated to Esports, pioneers programs for youth focusing on career development, STEM outreach, and community engagement. From organizing charity Twitch streams to volunteering at Esports conventions, and hosting community tournaments and boot camps, NEEL actively engages youth and cultivates inclusive communities, particularly among Asian American Pacific Islander and Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (AAPINHPI) groups. This year Xbox will be providing a donation that NEEL will leverage to prioritize mental health awareness initiatives tailored for AAPINHPI gamers, champion diversity and inclusion in esports, and celebrate cultural heritage through gaming events. Collaborating with Xbox, NEEL is committed to empowering AAPINHPI youth and fostering positive change within the esports industry, highlighting gaming’s potential as a platform for social impact and community involvement.

Gaming and Impact with Microsoft Rewards

Rewards members in the United States can earn and donate points to organizations supporting Asian and Pacific Islander communities with Xbox. The organizations below will be available on the Rewards hub: 

  • Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC AAJC works through strategic policy advocacy, active community education, and impactful litigation to advance the civil and human rights of Asian Americans and to build and promote a fair and equitable society for all.
  • AAPI Equity Alliance – AAPI Equity Alliance (AAPI Equity) is dedicated to improving the lives of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders through civic engagement, capacity building, and policy advocacy.
  • Stop AAPI Hate – Stop AAPI Hate advances equity & justice by dismantling systemic racism & building a multiracial movement to end anti-Asian American & Pacific Islander hate through community empowerment, solidarity & advocacy for comprehensive solutions.

Xbox players can earn Rewards points in various ways, such as playing games, completing Game Pass Quests, and purchasing games and other eligible items at the Microsoft Store (exclusions apply). Start earning today and redeem your points for great rewards. Donate your points on the Rewards hub or on the Microsoft Rewards redeem page

PLAY

Explore Games Curated by Asian and Pacific Islander Communities at Microsoft

A compilation image featuring game box art for Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes, Mineko’s Night Market, Sword and Fairy: Together Forever, Thirsty Suitors, and Venba on a background including the Xbox sphere styled in recognition of Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage month featuring water, fire, and two characters from the Ramayana, Sukhrip and Madchanu on a stage with embroidered curtains.

Pacific Islander Heritage month featuring water, fire, and two characters from the Ramayana, Sukhrip and Madchanu on a stage with embroidered curtains.

Gaming would not be what it is today without the contributions, perspectives, and influence from Asian and Pacific Islander communities. Here at Xbox, we want to honor this richly diverse set of communities by providing engaging gaming experiences that represent a myriad of histories and heritage. ​

During May and beyond, check out a variety of game collections that reflect the vast diversity of East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. These collections showcase creators, lead characters, and games inspired by these cultures. Available on the Microsoft Stores on Xbox and Windows, check out the collections of East, South, and Southeast Asian Community Games and Pacific Islander and Indigenous Community Games. These collections will exist year-round as part of our ongoing work to create more inclusive gaming ecosystems and elevate content that resonates with communities.​

Featured titles within the collections available with Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass include:​

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes (Available with Xbox Game Pass on Console, PC, and Cloud) – Japanese creators Yoshitaka Murayama and Junko Kawano designed this game to bring players a modern take on a classic JRPG experience. Lead up to 100+ playable characters through a war-torn world with diverse cultures and values that only you can save. ​

Mineko’s Night Market (Available with Xbox Game Pass on Console, PC, and Cloud) – Play this cozy game as Mineko, a curious girl who has just arrived at her new home on a struggling Japanese-inspired island at the base of Mount Fugu. Mineko’s Night Market celebrates Japanese culture while introducing a heartwarming story about friendship, tradition, and many, many cats. The husband-and-wife team of Meowza Games, Brent and Brandi Kobayashi, incorporated inspiration from Studio Ghibli and the real-life cat island in Aoshima, Japan.​

Sword and Fairy: Together Forever (Available with Xbox Game Pass on Console, PC, and Cloud) – Enter a realm based on ancient Chinese mythology and aesthetics in a real-time role-playing adventure from Taiwanese director, Yao Zhuangxian. Command a memorable party of characters, tame spirit creatures, play mini-games, and explore a vast world full of side quests to discover.​

Thirsty Suitors (Available with Xbox Game Pass on Console, PC, and Cloud) – A celebration of South Asian identity, Thirsty Suitors is a game about culture, intergenerational trauma, and expressing oneself. Follow Jala Jayaratne, a bisexual daughter of immigrants from India and Sri Lanka, in this story-driven adventure that unfolds through skateboarding, cooking, and turn-based battles against exes. Created by Outerloop Games, a minorityled indie game studio that aims to create accessible games with depth about underrepresented cultures and themes. ​

Venba (Available with Xbox Game Pass on Console, PC, and Cloud) – Cook delicious South Indian cuisine and experience the journey of an immigrant Tamil family, from lead developer Abhi Swaminathan. Take on the role of a loving mother and restore lost recipes in this narrative cooking simulator about family, love, loss, and exploring new challenges that arise in day-to-day life.

DISCOVER

Discover the Inspiration Behind the Xbox Logo Design

Xbox sphere styled in recognition of Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage month featuring water, fire, and two characters from the Ramayana, Sukhrip and Madchanu.

For Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Xbox commissioned an artist from Thailand to redesign the Xbox logo. The artist was inspired by the Ramayana, an epic tale originally from India and has also influenced other Asian peoples, including those in Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Laos. In Thailand, the story of the Ramayana is told through Kohn, a traditional Thai dance.  Just as players create avatars to assume an identity in a game, Kohn performers wear masks to portray different characters.

The Xbox design features Sukhrip (Sugriva), the son of the sun, and Madchanu, the son of a mermaid.  The stage scene focuses on Songkran, the Thai New Year, which is celebrated in April. Traditionally, this celebration includes splashing with water to cool down from the hot sun. In this scene, Madchanu playfully splashes Sukhrip with water, while the Xbox logo represents the vibrant sun, capturing the festive spirit of Songkran.

The stage curtains include embroidered wild orchid flowers in the traditional style of Northern Thailand.  The pattern also includes fog and rivers, embodying the beautiful, mountainous landscape of the region.

Xbox Ambassadors Celebrate Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2024

White Xbox controller icon with white laurels surrounding it layered over a blurred rainbow background.

As part of Xbox’s celebration of Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we connected with Xbox Ambassadors of Asian and Pacific Islander heritage about their favorite gaming experiences. They shared ways video games can highlight their heritage in positive and authentic ways. Hear more from Xbox Ambassadors in this Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month blog.

APIHM Dynamic Background and Wallpaper Available Now

The Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Xbox design is available today as an Xbox wallpaper and dynamic background on console – follow these steps to apply the dynamic background:

  • Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide.
  • Select Profile & system > Settings > General > Personalization > My background > Dynamic backgrounds.

You can choose between Games, Xbox, or Abstract dynamic backgrounds. Choose the background art that you want with the A button.

The post Xbox Empowers Asian and Pacific Islander Communities with GameTan and NEEL appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Front Mission 2: Remake is Available Now on Xbox

Summary

  • Front Mission 2: Remake premieres on Xbox on April 30.
  • Bringing back strategic turn-based combat with a deep story set in the war-torn Alordesh.
  • Stunning visuals, modernized battle scenes, improved loading times, enhanced effects, and a captivating soundtrack.

Get ready to suit up and command your Wanzers because Front Mission 2: Remake is landing on Xbox Series S|X and Xbox One!

This strategic turn-based classic returns with a stunning visual overhaul and refined gameplay, ready to reignite the hearts of its fans once again.

FM2 screenshot

The People’s Republic of Alordesh, already struggling financially, has been pushed to the brink by the devastating Second Huffman Conflict. This war has left the nation deeply impoverished, fueling widespread public frustration.

Follow the O.C.U.’s elite military squads – the “Muddy Otters,” “Dull Stags,” and the “O.C.U. Ground Defense Force Intelligence Agency” – as they navigate the war-torn nation of Alordesh and fight to end the brutal civil war.

Beyond the gripping story, Front Mission 2: Remake offers a deep and engaging strategic combat system. Take complete control of your Wanzers, customizing them to your tactical preferences. Enhance the original experience with two new Wanzers: Uisk and Igel Eins H, along with two powerful weapons: Storm Trident and Heavy Trident, and explore new camo options!

Refine your tactics by equipping different weapons, armor parts, and special abilities. Master the battlefield with a free camera system, allowing you to survey the environment and exploit enemy weaknesses.

Front Mission 2: Remake isn’t just about a visual upgrade.  The game boasts a complete overhaul, featuring: modernized battle scenes, improved loading times, modern in-game effects, a renewed soundtrack, and localization into nine languages to make the story accessible to a wider audience.

Brand new content added to the remake version also includes the free camera option, allowing you to freely hover around the map to gain an even greater overview of your battlefield. Additionally, a brand new game mode called “New Game+” lets you keep all your gathered weapons, parts, and progress, allowing you to start the game anew and challenge your opponents once again! Whether you’re a seasoned Front Mission veteran or a newcomer to the series, Front Mission 2: Remake offers a captivating story, deep strategic gameplay, and a chance to rewrite the fate of Huffman Island. Prepare to deploy!

Xbox Live

FRONT MISSION 2: Remake

Forever Entertainment S.A.


1


$34.99

$31.49

A classic tactical RPG returns! The second game in the main Front Mission storyline is finally available outside of Japan for the first time.

FRONT MISSION 2 blends intense strategy with a deep and involved storyline.

12 years have passed since the second Huffman conflict. The impoverished People’s Republic of Alordesh has been suffering a severe economic decline ever since the war ended. In June 2102, soldiers of the Alordesh Army rise up and, led by Ven Mackarge, declare independence from the O.C.U. (Oceania Cooperative Union).

Ash, an O.C.U. soldier, manages to survive the ensuing battle, but Alordesh is completely overrun by the Revolutionary Army. Ash and his surviving teammates infiltrate Alordesh’s chaotic underground in an attempt to escape the country. However, they soon discover that there is a huge conspiracy behind the coup.

In FRONT MISSION 2, the perspective switches between three characters: Ash, Lisa, and Thomas, creating a worldview that goes beyond a simple dichotomy between good and evil.

The post Front Mission 2: Remake is Available Now on Xbox appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Xbox Games Showcase Followed by [REDACTED] Direct Airs June 9

Xbox Games Showcase Followed by [REDACTED] Direct Airs June 9

Mark your calendars! The Xbox Games Showcase will be livestreamed on June 9, 2024, starting at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm BST (additional time zones below).

Like our double-feature last year with Starfield Direct, immediately following the Showcase we’ll be airing a special deep-dive into the next installment of a beloved franchise. We can’t say much, so for now we’ll call it the Xbox Games Showcase followed by [REDACTED] Direct.

This will also be our first Showcase featuring games from our portfolio of studios across Activision, Blizzard, Bethesda and Xbox Game Studios, in addition to titles from our third-party partners.

You’ll be able to enjoy both of our June 9 livestreams live through a variety of outlets, and in over 30 languages, and American Sign Language and English Audio Descriptions:

Airtime for the Xbox Games Showcase followed by [REDACTED] Direct in local time zones:

  • PT: June 9, 10am
  • ET: June 9, 1pm
  • BST: June 9, 6pm
  • CET: June 9, 7pm
  • JST: June 9, 2am
  • AEST: June 9, 3am

June 9’s double-feature broadcast also kicks off a week’s worth of coverage here on Xbox Wire and The Official Xbox Podcast, featuring updates and deep-dives on a ton of games.

Xbox will host a premier viewing event in Los Angeles and Xbox FanFest is giving away tickets! Enter the FanFest Sweepstakes, which begins on May 2, for a chance to win tickets or even a free trip to get you there. To get notified with more details about the event and sweepstakes, sign up for FanFest at aka.ms/XboxFanFest.

Ticket Sweepstakes: No Purchase Necessary. Open only to registered Xbox FanFest members. 18+ who are legal residents of the 50 U.S. + DC. Entry Period 5/2/24 – 5/13/24. Click here for Official Rules. Trip Sweepstakes: No Purchase Necessary. Open only to registered Xbox FanFest members. 18+. Entry Period 5/2/24 – 5/13/24. Click here for Official Rules.

In the meantime, be sure to check back here on Xbox Wire for more information on the upcoming Xbox Games Showcase followed by [REDACTED] Direct on June 9, 2024.

The post Xbox Games Showcase Followed by <mark style=”background-color:#000000″ class=”has-inline-color has-black-color”>[REDACTED]</mark> Direct Airs June 9 appeared first on Xbox Wire.

IGN x ID@Xbox Digital Showcase – See Everything We Showed in Our Second Edition

That’s a wrap folks! The second edition of the IGN x ID@Xbox Digital Showcase just ended and there was a lot to show. From bullet hell shooters to roguelites, or open world co-op games to mascot managers, we just showed off a diverse set of games coming to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows PC. A little bit of everything for everyone to love!

Read on for a full recap of every game we brought along during the showcase – including two montages with even more indie games!

33 Immortals (coming to Game Pass)

Developer: Thunder Lotus

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

33 Immortals is a co-op action-roguelike for 33 players. Play a damned soul, and rebel against God’s final judgment. Dive straight into epic 33-player co-op battles with instant “pick-up and raid” matchmaking. Cooperate with your allies to survive against hordes of monsters and massive, challenging bosses. Expand your arsenal and equip powerful new relics to permanently upgrade your soul. Face the wrath of God in a fight for your eternal life.

Stay up to date on 33 Immortals here.

All You Need Is Help (coming to Game Pass)

World Premiere

Developer: Q-Games Ltd. 

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

While bumping around and supporting each other, turn your friendships into friend-shapes! This innovative cooperative multiplayer game introduces a fresh gaming experience.

Dive into a quirky multiplayer co-op puzzle game where adorable, fluffy cube-shaped creatures collaborate to reach their goals. These creatures, each oddly shaped, jostle against each other to help solve puzzles. When in trouble, shout “HELP!” and friends will surely come to your aid!

Stay up to date on All You Need Is Help here.

Astor: Blade of the Monolith

Developer: C2 Game Studio

Publisher: Versus Evil, tinyBuild

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Rip through hordes of enemies with fury and style in this fast-paced action-RPG. Play as Astor, a young warrior determined to unveil the secrets behind his creators’ unforeseen demise. Learn new attacks, abilities and combos, unlock magical powers, and collect legendary weapons as you crush hordes of enemies. Find your way towards the Monolith, an ancient structure holding immense power, and confront the source of the planet’s haunting evil. Will you join Astor on his journey to become the planet’s savior?

Stay up to date on Astor: Blade of the Monolith here.

Centum

World Premiere

Developer: Hack the Publisher

Publisher: Serenity Forge

Platform: Xbox Series X|S, PC

Centum is an unreliable narrative-driven adventure game. At first, it appears to be a point-and-click adventure. You’re a prisoner in a cell. You have 100 days to escape. But is that really the goal? Centum plays with your mind and tricks you into thinking you’re playing a different game. But through surprising interactions, surrealist storytelling, and striking, large-scale animated pixel art, this unexpected experience takes players on a mind-bending, emotionally fraught journey through the looking glass to show them a different side to their familiar reality.

Stay up to date on Centum here.

Commandos: Origins (coming to Game Pass)

Developer: Claymore Game Studios

Publisher: Kalypso Media

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

A reboot of the iconic ‘Commandos’ franchise, revisit the frontlines of WW2 and experience the story of how the elite unit from the original games was formed. From the blazing deserts of Africa to frozen Scandinavian fjords, meet the 6 members of your squad and use their unique skills to overcome the most demanding of missions.

Watch the humble beginnings of the Commandos unit as it first begins to form and experience the stealth-based tactical gameplay which made the series so beloved.

Stay up to date on Commandos: Origins here.

Dungeons of Hinterberg (coming to Game Pass)

Developer: Microbird Games

Publisher: Curve Games

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Welcome to Hinterberg, a new tourist hotspot in the idyllic Austrian Alps! As Luisa, you’ll snowboard down glaciers, zipline through the forest, climb a mighty mountain, or have a coffee by the lake while you’re out looking for your next dungeon. 

Braving dungeons requires more than just cutting-edge sports gear and a good sword arm. Hinterberg’s dungeons are full of puzzles that will surprise and challenge you. Use your head, your magic skills, and every trick in the book to become a Master Slayer!

Stay up to date on Dungeons of Hinterberg here.

Fera: The Sundered Tribes

Developer: Massive Damage Games

Platform: PC

Fera: The Sundered Tribes is an open world co-op survival crafting RPG that blends monster hunting and colony sim mechanics with fun aerial traversal and exploration. 

In a unique post-apocalyptic world of untamed magic and ancient secrets, you are the only hunter to have taken down one of the invasive behemoths terrorizing your land. Your tribe elected you as their leader, so follow your destiny to reclaim this magic-ravaged land you call home. 

Stay up to date on Fera: The Sundered Tribes here.

Gamera Montage (all coming to Game Pass)

Today at ID@Xbox Digital Showcase, Gamera Games announced that their lineup of indie games will be launching across Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and PC and will be available with Xbox Game Pass and/or PC Game Pass. From a fantastical parenting simulator to narrative horror, acclaimed games like Depersonalization, Firework, Keplerth and Volcano Princess are coming to Game Pass in the next few months. On top of that, pixel puzzle adventure The Rewinder is available on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and PC with Game Pass today! 

Here are all the games shown in the montage:

The Rewinder

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and PC (with Game Pass)

Developer: Misty Mountain Studio

Using pixel art to evoke ancient Chinese painting styles, this 2D puzzle adventure game sees you take on the role of Yun, a “rewinder” who has the ability to enter people’s memories and influence their actions. Travelling to a village, you’ll be able to unravel the mysteries of what occurred there, and uncover a story inspired by Chinese mythology.

Firework

Platform: PC (with PC Game Pass)

Developer: Shiying Studio

Firework is a horror puzzle game. An accidental fire at a funeral forces the police to re-investigate a horrifying closed case. You play as a rookie police officer who joins the case by chance, and discovers that this crime is more bewildering than they could have expected.

Depersonalization

Platform: PC (with PC Game Pass)

Developer: MeowNature

Depersonalization is a branching RPG with multiple endings, which allows you to shape the world of the game around you. Players can create a variety of characters, each with their own personalities, offering exploration, investigation, and deductive reasoning as means to reach the end of the story you help create.

Keplerth

Platform: PC (with PC Game Pass)

Developer: TARO

A 2D sandbox RPG, Keplerth lets you take on the threats of a dangerous alien planet wither alone or with friends. Offering an open world with near-infinite variation on every run, you’ll be able to fight, farm, craft, and even edit your own characters’ genes to survive.

Volcano Princess

Platform: Xbox Series XIS and PC

Developer: Egg Hatcher

In this fantasy parenting simulator, you’ll be tasked with raising a daughter – not only affecting her future, but the future of an entire kingdom. With multiple choices and endings, you’ll be able to help your daughter to learn, train, and befriend others, ultimately affecting how the story plays out as a result of your decisions. 

Hangry

Developer: Game Pill

Platform: Xbox One, PC  

Explore the galaxy. Discover new life. Eat it. Play as Hangry, a beastly mercenary with an insatiable hunger hunting down fearsome monsters in a snack n’ slash RPG. Traverse through barbequed woodlands and candy-coated caverns to find ingredients for Goutra, the chief chef of an alien underworld diner. 

Your goal is to find the finest cuts for Goutra and climb the ladder of the city’s underbelly to become the planet’s best hunter. But beware, you must resist the temptation to eat the merchandise.

Stay up to date on Hangry here.

Humanity (coming to Game Pass)

Developer: tha ltd., Enhance

Publisher: Enhance

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox One Series X|S, PC

A unique blend of puzzle-solving and action-platforming, Humanity puts the fate of all mankind in your hands. Er, paws. Did we mention you’re a dog? 

Become a Shiba Inu and help reconstruct humankind in this acclaimed action-puzzle game. Drop commands to guide a mindless human horde to the goal through 90 increasingly challenging handcrafted story mode stages. Then, choose from thousands of user-made puzzles expanding on the breadth of mechanics, or design your own and share it with the community.

Stay up to date on Humanity here.

iii Montage

This montage was a recap of all the games that were featured in the Triple-i Initiative showcase on April 10 that will be playable on Xbox. Here is the full list of content seen in the montage:

Games that have currently been announced for Xbox: 

  • 33 Immortals
  • Cat Quest III
  • Death Must Die
  • Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn
  • Kill Knight
  • Let’s School
  • Never Alone 2
  • Shadows of Doubt
  • Wizard of Legend 2

Games that are already available on Xbox:

  • Broken Roads (released on April 10)
  • Brotato: Abyssal Terrors DLC
  • Dyson Sphere Program: Rise of the Dark Fog Stage II Update (PC Game Pass only)
  • My Time at Sandrock
  • Palworld: Arena Update (Coming this Fall)
  • Ravenswatch: Fall of Avalon Update
  • Risk of Rain 2: Devotion Update
  • Vampire Survivors: Operation Guns DLC (Coming soon)

Jackbox Naughty Pack

World Premiere

Developer: Jackbox Games

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Jackbox Naughty Pack is an intimate pack of three games that are sure to have you laughing, and maybe even sweating just a little! This title is coming to Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S later this year, with individual games to be revealed later this summer. This will be Jackbox’s first M (Mature 17+) rated game, full of spicy surprises and maybe even some familiar faces!

Stay up to date on Jackbox Naughty Pack here.

Keylocker 

Developer: Moonana Games

Publisher: Serenity Forge

Platform: Xbox Series X|S, PC

Keylocker is a bizarre and colorful turn-based rhythm JRPG. Play as the singer and songwriter, BOBO, and take down a despotic regime that has outlawed all sound. Fuel your moves with the electric power of music by using real-time execution of moves in rhythm game style! Battle the authorities, unlock the secrets of Saturn, play in your own band’s concerts, and hack into the network to bring an end to this corrupt system, for better or worse. Inspired by the charm and physical comedy of the Mario & Luigi RPG series, with the mechanics and storytelling depth of Chrono Trigger. 

Stay up to date on Keylocker here.

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage

Developer: Don’t Nod Montreal

Platform: Xbox Series X|S, PC

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is a narrative adventure game set in the fictional town of Velvet Cove in the summer of 1995. Four high school friends – Swann, Nora, Autumn, and Kat – spend the summer together hanging out, playing music, and becoming best friends… until something changes the trajectory of all of their lives. After 27 years of silence between them, they reunite to confront the dark secrets that made them promise to never speak again. 

Stay up to date on Lost Records here.

Palworld (available on Game Pass)

Developer: Pocketpair

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

You’ll be meeting some new Pals this summer! Attention please, Pal Tamers! New species of Pals have been discovered on the Palpagos Islands. Track them down and discover how these new Pals can help you in your adventures. Palworld’s first major update is heading your way this June. Stay tuned!

Stay up to date on Palworld here.

Promise Mascot Agency

World Premiere

Developer: Kaizen Game Works

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Explore the cursed town of Kaso-Machi! Recruit and train a variety of mascot friends! Help them out when jobs are inevitably met with disaster! Solve the mystery of your exile from the yakuza! Help Pinky work through her many, many anger issues! Upgrade your cute kei truck with turbo and wings! Shoot Pinky like a freakin’ missile! Turn Promise Mascot Agency into the number one agency in Japan! Go go, Michi and Pinky!

Stay up to date on Promise Mascot Agency here.

Stampede: Racing Royale

Developer: Sumo Leamington

Publisher: Secret Mode Limited

Platform: Xbox Series X|S, PC

Stampede: Racing Royale is a wild, thrilling 60-player online karting battle royale game. Take on the world in races, battles and more to avoid elimination. Take the crown, and earn incredible rewards. Discover incredible maps, over 400 customization items and so much more!

Don’t miss your chance to head straight into pole position, when Stampede: Racing Royale speeds into Game Preview on Xbox Series X|S this summer. Do you have what it takes to get to the front of the herd?

Stay up to date on Stampede: Racing Royale here.

Sulfur

Developer: Perfect Random

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Sulfur combines first-person shooter mechanics with role-playing and roguelite elements. It’s a single-player ‘hardcore’ roguelike extraction shooter with modifiable and enchantable guns. Welcome to a modern old-school action-adventure: Outsmart enemies, find treasure, improve weapons, harness powers. Delve deeper, find answers, make it end. 

Stay up to date on Sulfur here.

Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter

Developer: Odd Bug Studio

Publisher: United Label

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Embark upon a vast, snow-ravaged kingdom in Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter, sequel to the critically acclaimed action-RPG. An old and unspeakable evil has stirred in the North; wings black as death; fangs sharp as steel; and a thirst for blood rivalled only by their hunger for vengeance.

As Arlo, heir to the Warden of the Wastes, journey through the vast, snow-ravaged lands of the North in an epic quest to overcome the Dark Wings once and for all. Hunt down giant beasts, unite disparate clans, upgrade your settlement, and discover a terrible secret of blood & crown…

Stay up to date on Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter here.

Times & Galaxy

Developer: Copychaser Games

Publisher: Fellow Traveller

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Meet over 100 alien weirdos in Times & Galaxy, a space journalism adventure coming to Xbox in June 2024! Times & Galaxy is a funny, heartfelt game about space aliens and the richness of the stories that make up their everyday lives. Set in a solar system full of strange beings, from space lizards to goo people, you will step into the shoes of a shiny new Robo intern for the system’s most trusted holopaper, the Times & Galaxy.

Your goal? Prove that Robos can report, get to know a whole bunch of aliens, and maybe keep your job at the end of it all. Good luck, intern!

Stay up to date on Times & Galaxy here.

Vampire Survivors (available on Game Pass)

Developer: Poncle

Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Vampire Survivors’ new Laborratory update will challenge your survival skills with two new characters, two new stages, two new weapons, one new evolution, and 1 new passive. Most importantly, there will be 6 new achievements!

Stay up to date on Vampire Survivors here.


And that’s all for our latest showcase! Connect with ID@Xbox on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Discord, Twitch, and YouTube, and stay tuned to Xbox Wire to learn more about what Team Xbox has planned.

The post IGN x ID@Xbox Digital Showcase – See Everything We Showed in Our Second Edition appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Deathbound is Coming to Xbox Series X|S

Brace yourselves for a one-of-a-kind party-based soulslike. Deathbound is a passion project developed by Brazilian developers at Trialforge Studio, with the game already garnering critical acclaim from IGN, Kotaku, The Escapist, and many others.

In Deathbound, your journey through the city of Akratya isn’t a solo quest. You’ll need to forge bonds with seven fallen warriors whose stories you’ll discover during your crusade through the forbidden city. Take advantage of the four-hero party system, something new to soulslike games, and switch warriors at any time during gameplay – even while executing attacks and dodges.

Deathbound character closeup

Each of the playable characters available in Deathbound is unique with their own skill sets, combat styles, and rich histories. Fallen warriors are intricately connected to the world of Deathbound and each other, belonging to conflicting factions and driven by diverse motivations. Synergies between warriors can provide combat buffs, while conflicts among them can lead to debuffs within your party.

The combat system in Deathbound was meticulously crafted over many months, with developers implementing feedback from players and fans of the genre. A key element of the combat system, and one of the most important mechanics in Deathbound, is the Morphstrike – a devastating attack similar to combos that crushes every enemy in your path, uniting the forces of the fallen warriors in your party.

Deathbound screenshot

But what would a soulslike game be without unforgiving monsters and bosses? In Deathbound, you’ll confront challenging enemies meticulously crafted to test your skills to the fullest. Encounter abominations created in dark laboratories by a cult devoted to eternal life. Each battle could be lethal for you, don’t underestimate any of the enemies that stand in your way.

Deathbound screenshot

Deathbound is coming to Xbox Series X|S consoles later this year. If you’re intrigued by what you’ve read, we encourage you to visit the game’s store page and add Deathbound to your Wishlist.

See you in Akratya, Fallen Warrior!

Xbox Live

Deathbound

Tate Multimedia Sp. z o.o.

Deathbound is a one-of-a-kind party-based soulslike set in a callous world where Faith and Science clash. The forbidden city of Akratya is an unforgiving land that cannot be conquered alone. Bind with fallen warriors found throughout your crusade and dynamically transform between characters seamlessly in mid-combat with the unique 4-hero party system.

The fallen are individual characters with their own unique skill sets, combat styles, and rich history. By absorbing their essence, you inherit the fiber of their very being. Conflicts and synergies between characters greatly impact gameplay, so relationships must be balanced. Strong synergies may offer combat buffs that can spell disaster for the ruthless boss awaiting your steel and magic.

Throughout combat, you will charge a sync meter shared across all characters. During an opportune moment, dispel your sync meter and unleash a devastating Morphstrike using the combined power of the bound fallen warriors. When faced with a formidable abomination, a precisely executed Morphstrike can be the deciding factor between life and death.

The world of Deathbound has been lovingly crafted and influenced by the developer’s homeland of Brazil, a vibrant culture brimming with life, creativity, rhythm, and a rich history. From the Afro-Brazilian martial art of capoeira to the sweeping music cascading through Akratya, Trialforge’s origins shine throughout every aspect of Deathbound.

The post Deathbound is Coming to Xbox Series X|S appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Explore the Post-Apocalyptic Seas in Age of Water

Welcome to the future, adventurers!

Imagine Earth completely covered by water. Civilization as we know it is gone forever, and whatever remains of your favorite fast-food joints, fancy cars or gaming consoles rests on the ocean floor. 

Humanity has survived though. We always do. People built settlements on top of whatever high structures remained above the surface. Brave captains roam this water world in their improvised boats looking for food, materials or information. Age of Water will put you in the shoes of one such adventurer embarked on their first big journey.

This journey includes:

  • Crafting your own unique post-apocalyptic boat.
  • Saving your friends from the hands of cruel scavengers.
  • Fishing mini-game!

Our team at Three Whales Studio (named after the signature settlement you’ll visit in our game!) has been developing Age of Water for quite a few years. Our goal was to build a world that is post-apocalyptic in nature, but visually bright and colorful. The ruins of the old civilization serve as a sombre reminder of what was lost, while the vibrant new societies that have emerged atop them radiate with life and resilience.

AoW wide landscape

Age of Water is also our love letter to, well, water. Its realistic flow, reflections, and interactions with objects and characters help to immerse players in this vast, aquatic world. From the gentle lapping of waves against your boat to the terrifying majesty of a whirlpool, every aspect of the water has been crafted to feel as real and dynamic as possible.

Obviously, this is a video game, so the adventure won’t go too easy, as pirates and other evil guys, both seaborne and airborne, will attack your boat on sight. You’ll have to prepare for battle by customizing your boat or building a completely new one, adding more weapons and training crew members. 

AoW screenshot

On the other hand, Age of Water has a lot of more peaceful things to do: you can trade between settlements, hunt for treasure and undertake story quests to unravel the mysteries of this brave new world.

Age of Water is an online adventure game, and that means that you’ll meet other players and will be able to talk to them and invite them into your quests. But I’d like to stress that you’re totally welcome to play solo if that’s your preference. 

AoW tanker

We did not want to limit you to any specific game-play style, as freedom is essential for any marine adventure game. So, after a few tutorial-style quests at the very beginning you’ll be free to do your own thing, living your own life in Age of Water. I hope you’ll like it!

The game will allow you to test your might against others, though all PvP content is strictly optional (no player will attack you while you’re just exploring the ocean), and you won’t miss anything important by not engaging in battles with others. It’s just another way of earning in-game resources that you can get via other non-PvP-related means

Xbox Live

Age of Water

Gaijin Distribution Kft


15

$29.99

Become a sea captain of a post-apocalyptic Earth completely covered in water and go on an adventure in a huge open world. Sail through storms, fight and trade, capture other people’s boats or build your own, extract resources from the bottom of the ocean, reveal the secrets of the Age of Water world.

Water post-apocalypse
The ocean destroyed a once great civilization, but people survived and adapted. They built settlements on the roofs of tall buildings and the tops of other man-made structures. People travel across the ocean in tiny boats and huge combat vessels. The ocean provides everything they need, including extractable resources on the seabed. And yet, the dream of real land is still alive.

True open world
Explore the world at your own pace, discover new settlements and meet their inhabitants. Complete tasks, search for and extract valuable resources from the bottom of the ocean, earn money on trade or simply sell the artifacts you have obtained, and when you get the idea of how this world works, build your own base.

Hundreds of unique ships
Build boats from scratch or modify existing ones. Players have access to dozens of hulls and hundreds of parts, from which they can assemble anything ranging from a small boat to a hefty vessel 30 meters long, and then install equipment, armor and weapons. It’s important not to forget to gather a team of good crewmembers so that there is someone to stand behind machine guns and cannons or do other work on board.

Fierce naval battles
Pirates are always waiting for you at sea, and in some cases more aggressive players even start to chase you, so do not forget to install enough guns on your deck. You can destroy an enemy vessel, or you can capture it in battle and take it for yourself forever. Adventures might also get you into storming enemy fortresses and defending allied settlements!

Personal naval base
This shelter is reliably protected from enemies, and it allows a player to organize the production of everything that the captain may need on it. Build factories for the production of equipment, weapons, hulls for boats of all sizes, as well as the necessary resources.

Flexible balance between PvE and PvP
At first, you will only meet computer opponents, but later you can challenge other players if you are confident enough in your skills and gear. Always be on the lookout: if your task is to transport illegal goods, then other players may well take the quest to hunt smugglers. In Age of Water, everyone decides for themself who they are today – a peaceful traveler or a bloodthirsty pirate.

The post Explore the Post-Apocalyptic Seas in Age of Water appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Indie Selects for April: Play the Recent Indie Games That We Know You’ll Love

It’s hard to believe, but we’re now in our third month of Indie Selects – and the hits just keep on coming. The team have picked some amazing games this month. We’ve played them, we’ve loved them, and we feel confident that you’ll like them too.

April’s Indie Selects include an interactive, playable historical artifact, two completely different approaches to building, and even a lo-fi, jazzy space shooter. As always, you can find the whole list in one easy-to-access spot on the Xbox Store, right now. With that in mind, here’s the list (in no particular order):

Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles

Bulwark Image

Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles is a work of passion from the same solo developer behind the original Falconeer. In this iteration, the universe of that game is expanded into vast new territory, and you’re tasked with building the ultimate settlement in an oceanic world. It’s a relaxed, immersive city builder for the most part, serving up an open world where you can scavenge for resources to support your ever-expanding creation.

Later in the game you can open up trade routes and defend your city from invaders, or even become the invader yourself, taking on rival civilizations. It’s really the unique world here that sets this game apart from other city builders: you start with a simple island village, and then expand out into, and over, the seas, with steampunk-inspired flying ships and gothic architecture. You can really play Bulwark any way you like and it’s easy to get sucked into, building and exploring for hours.

Xbox Live
Xbox Play Anywhere

Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles

Wired Productions


24

$19.99

Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles is an open world builder with freedom and expression at its core, allowing players to build sprawling towns, spires, and fortresses that become hubs for trade, or rallying grounds for conquests.

Carve your legacy into a world shattered by the decisions of those who came before you, tower by tower, wall by wall, sculpting from the daunting cliffs and perilous waters of an unforgiving landscape that refuses to be tamed.

Tasked with rebuilding a civilization devastated by the aftermath of a war 40 years prior, you are in command of creating the last great settlement upon the Great Ursee – a vast, fantastical oceanic world filled with lost myths, breath-taking vistas and danger.

From humble docks and wooden jetties, you will scavenge resources and grow your settlement as your population and creations grow ever grander, sculpting monumental stone towers and battlements that scrape the skies, where airships and giant warbirds rule.

Create trade routes and strike alliances with other factions scattered across the waves, acquiring powerful Captains and Commanders to protect your creations and utilise their aid in exploration – or muster your own battlegroup to strike at them, waging war upon your ancient enemies.

This world and its choices are yours to make – what legacy will you leave behind? What creations will bear your name?

Build Your Bulwark.

House Flipper 2

House Flipper 2 Image

Veteran “flippers” will love the revised mechanics and new content, and will completely lose themselves in the sandbox building mode, in which you can design and build your own original creations. But you don’t have to be an experienced flipper to have fun – it’s super easy to jump in and start painting, renovating, and remodeling, bringing new life to the old, shabby buildings in your town.

There’s even a story mode, where an old pal unveils the secrets of each house under renovation to you. Hard to believe that a game that involves painting, sweeping and hammering – things you’re not likely to see many of us here on the ID team doing in real life – on our “favorites” list, but there are a lot of dedicated flippers on the team now.

Xbox Live

House Flipper 2

Frozen District


80

$39.99

The Flipper’s new groove

It doesn’t matter if you’re a makeover veteran or if you’re only starting out – you’ll feel at home in no time!
House Flipper 2 introduces new mechanics and revamps the ones from the original game.
The good old hammer, the trusty paint roller, and the sturdy mop, all await your return! The new visuals make our fixer-uppers look crisp as never before!

Another brick in the wall

Why renovate a house when you can just build one? Unleash your creativity in the Sandbox Mode! Use it to recreate real-life buildings or design projects that exist in your imagination.
Remember: building from scratch is no easy task! But let’s face it, it’s definitely worth putting in extra effort to design the house of your dreams.

Once upon a time…

Between the mountain tops and the endless sea, there lies the town of Pinnacove.
A place where time slows down, and the friendly residents are ready to entrust you with their homes.
Can you discover some of the stories within these walls?
Your old pal Tom, who seems to know everybody in the neighborhood, will gladly share some local knowledge with you.

Sea of opportunities

In House Flipper 2, you are the foreman!
You get to decide what ‘relaxing gameplay’ means!
Do you enjoy building? Choose the Sandbox Mode which allows you to construct houses from scratch. Or maybe you prefer cleaning and decorating? In the Story Mode, you will delve into long and engaging renovation projects, as well as deal with some quick jobs.
Sit back and relax, here comes the new age of House Flipper!

Broken Roads

Broken Roads Image

Picture the Australian Outback after the apocalypse with man-eating spiders, raiders, and even blood-thirsty kangaroos. Is it Mad Max? No, this is Broken Roads, a deep RPG that introduces a novel Morality System to mix up the genre. What kind of character will you be? Much is decided in advance as you set out your character’s visions and ideals, which then influence what kind of story you’ll experience.

Much of the game involves discovering, befriending and influencing the vast cast of characters you’ll encounter on your journeys, as you peel back the many layers of the detailed story. It’s an ambitious game that is infused with Australian culture, dialect and humor.

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Broken Roads

Versus Evil, LLC


18

$39.99

Born of a love for traditional computer role-playing, Broken Roads provides a rich, engaging narrative in which players make their way across a desolated future Australia. Blending together traditional and all-new role-playing elements on top of a classless system offering nearly unlimited character development options, Broken Roads presents players with an original morality system: the Moral Compass. This novel design sees dialogue options and questing decisions influence, and be influenced by, a character’s philosophical leaning.

Features

• All-new post-apocalyptic setting
• Unique morality system influencing dialogue, quests and character development
• Authentic Australian locations and environments
• Blend of traditional and original RPG mechanics
• Up to 5 party members
• Turn-based tactical combat
• Hand-drawn artwork
• A content-rich and densely-crafted world

Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story

Llamasoft Image

If you’re under the age of 40 or so, and you’re not from the UK, you could be forgiven for not having heard of games like Attack of the Mutant Camels or Metagalactic Llamas Battle at the Edge of Time. But now’s your chance to rediscover some of the wildest and weirdest games to come out of the ’80s and early ’90s. Not only the games: developer Digital Eclipse serves these classics up in their landmark “interactive documentary style”, and takes you into the mind of creator Jeff Minter, and through the entire history of the iconic British Video game company, quixotically named Llamasoft.

If you played any of the originals – like Jeff’s signature shooter Gridrunner – on systems such as the Sinclair ZX81, the Commodore VIC-20, or the Atari 1040 ST (this writer’s favorite computer of all time) you’ll absolutely fall in love with these remasters. But if you’re entirely new to Jeff and his trippy games, you’ll find the Llamasoft story to be a fascinating journey into video game history – a history that you can jump into and play.

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Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story

Digital Eclipse


7

$29.99

Gridrunner. Revenge of the Mutant Camels. Tempest 2000. Llamatron. In the British gaming universe of the 80s and 90s, nobody made games like Jeff Minter. Now, in a new interactive documentary from Digital Eclipse, you can play the history of one of the weirdest, wildest game developers to ever exist – a man who loved shooters and sheep, lasers and llamas.

LLAMASOFT

Journey back in time to an era of cassette tapes, photocopied zines, and README.TXT. An era in which a kid with a Commodore VIC-20 and dreams of radioactive sheep could become one of Britain’s best-known game makers. A virtual museum of design documents, playable games, and all-new video features tell the fascinating story of a true independent game designer.

PLAY THE ACCLAIMED ORIGINALS

Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story includes 42 classic games from 8 different platforms, from Jeff Minter’s earliest work on the Sinclair ZX81 and Commodore VIC-20, to later work on the Spectrum, Commodore 64 and Atari 800, and deep into the 16-bit era with the Atari ST and Atari Jaguar.

GRIDRUNNER: REMASTERED

Jeff’s signature shooter masterpiece Gridrunner gets an all-new look from Digital Eclipse, updated into thrilling modern graphics and sound – while still running the core of the Commodore 64 version for 100% gameplay accuracy.

GAMES, GAMES, GAMES

Sheep In Space. Andes Attack. Attack of the Mutant Camels. Matrix. Metagalactic Llamas Battle at the Edge of Time. Hellgate. Laser Zone. And many more. All the Minter classics you’ve heard of (and several you probably haven’t), now with new quality-of-life features to make playing them more fun than ever before.

Two of Jeff Minter’s earliest “light synthesizers,” Psychedelia and Colourspace, are also included, with all-new options and features optimized for controller-based play. Finally, Jeff’s demo of Attack of the Mutant Camels for the unreleased Konix Multi-System console is also included.

THE GOLD MASTER SERIES

New from Digital Eclipse (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection, Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration, The Making of Karateka), the Gold Master Series presents iconic games in an innovative “interactive documentary” format, putting the shared history of games and their creators into one comprehensive package.

Grandia HD Collection

Grandia HD Image

Speaking of classic games, the original Grandia dates back to 1997, and Grandia II came out in 2000. Both iconic RPGs have been lovingly remastered in the Grandia HD Collection. Groundbreaking in their time, the series featured a novel dynamic attack system, deep skill progression, and an extensive and immersive storyline.

New UI enhancements, updated HD cinematics, and tweaks to gameplay make the games feel modern and fresh, while maintaining the original classic characters and stories. If you didn’t get a chance to experience these incredibly influential RPGs, which really defined the idea of “going on an adventure” in a game, now is your chance to set out on that quest.

Xbox Live

Grandia HD Collection

GungHo Online Entertainment America, Inc.


36

$39.99

The highly-anticipated Grandia HD Collection for Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S are here! Get your hands on two games that changed the landscape of RPGs forever, in beautiful HD graphics.

GRANDIA: Dive into the captivating journey of Justin and his allies as they race against the sinister Garlyle Forces. Unravel the mysteries of a forgotten civilization and immerse yourself in an RPG hailed as a timeless classic, inspiring generations of games to come.

GRANDIA II: Step into the shoes of Ryudo, a jaded Geohound with a heart, as he embarks on a magical quest alongside a group of unlikely allies. Their journey is riddled with twists and turns as they seek a divine weapon to save the world. Delve deep into this tale where the line between good and evil blurs, and everything is open to question…

Super Space Club

Super Space Club Image

Imagine mashing up a classic top down “shoot-‘em-up” with a lo-fi, chill-out music channel and you’d end up with something very much like Super Space Club. Usually “shmups” go for more of a frenetic, kinetic vibe with lots of angry aliens and what not, but Super Space Club opts for a much more relaxing tone, while also serving up some great space combat.

You can select different weapons, ships and pilots to customize the build you want to take into battle, which is a nice plus-up to the genre. And nothing is more satisfying than mowing down wave after wave of aliens while grooving alone to some jazzy, lo-fi tunes.

Xbox Live

Super Space Club

GrahamOfLegend


5

$14.99

Super Space Club is a colorful endless arcade gunner set to the backdrop of chill, lo-fi music. As a club of skilled misfit pilots, defend the galaxy by taking on galactic forces and completing a series of thrilling missions. In space, everyone can hear you groove.

Sling fireworks with the explosive Olly, or dish out ship-seeking shots with the stealthy Roscoe? With a variety of pilots, ships, and weapons at your disposal, choose the perfect build and soar across the stars through physics-based thrusting. As you’re taking down enemies and completing objectives, be wary of your ship’s energy. Depleting energy could leave you vulnerable to devastating damage. Don’t get too comfortable after coming out on top, as the next wave is always right around the corner.

Despite the challenge that gameplay may bring, space can be quite dope. Missouri-based audio duo Fat Bard provides the backdrop of lo-fi beats and chill-hop tunes featuring vocal artists from around the globe. Paired with a vibrant and colorful cool-toned aesthetic, Super Space Club delivers a relaxing yet challenging arcade experience unlike any other.

The post Indie Selects for April: Play the Recent Indie Games That We Know You’ll Love appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Next Week on Xbox: New Games for April 29 to May 3

Next Week on Xbox Hero Image

Next Week on Xbox: New Games for April 29 to May 3

Welcome to Next Week on Xbox! In this weekly feature we cover all the games coming soon to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows, 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!


Xbox Live

FRONT MISSION 2: Remake

Forever Entertainment S.A.

Front Mission 2: Remake – April 30
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

A classic tactical RPG returns! The second game in the main Front Mission storyline is finally available outside of Japan for the first time. In Front Mission 2, the perspective switches between three characters: Ash, Lisa, and Thomas, creating a worldview that goes beyond a simple contrast between good and evil.


Xbox Live

Tales from Candleforth

Feardemic

Tales from Candleforth – April 30

Tales from Candleforth is a collection of fairy tales that were written on top of a forbidden book many years ago to hide its content. Years later, the dark text is bleeding out and onto the pages of the tales, mixing with them and twisting the stories.


Xbox Live

The Fall of Elena Temple

GrimTalin

$2.99
Xbox One X Enhanced

The Fall of Elena Temple – April 30
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox One X Enhanced

The Fall of Elena Temple is an old-school puzzle platformer in which you explore rooms, avoid perils and collect all coins to progress. The catch is you can undo your falls! So don’t be afraid of heights, fall and collect the coins bellow, then undo back up to where you fell from, keeping the coins!


Xbox Live
Xbox Play Anywhere

Roofcats Band – Suika Style

Lucky Raccoon Games

Roofcats Band – Suika Style – May 1
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Ever wondered what mischief cats get up to on the roof? Well, they’re not just lazing around – they’re hosting the ultimate rooftop jam session! Your mission is to skillfully match the feline musicians, summoning new talents while dodging overflow and contending with an occasional canine disruptor.


Xbox Live

Space Mercenary Defense Force

Eastasiasoft Limited

Space Mercenary Defense Force – May 1
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Survive the cosmic onslaught by upgrading and equipping a vast arsenal of modular weaponry! Withstand the alien onslaught from all directions, moving your ship through space to align targets with the most effective tech modules and maintaining a safe distance from the swarm. Complete optional encounters like mini-bosses and conduit charging to earn rewards, then spend hard-earned credits to unlock new ships, perpetual astral upgrades, perks, and celestial modifiers!


Xbox Live

Armed and Gelatinous: Couch Edition

Three Flip Studios

Armed and Gelatinous: Couch Edition – May 2
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Prepare for an intergalactic showdown like never before in Armed and Gelatinous: Couch Edition, the ultimate multiplayer party game that pits friends and family against one another in a fast-paced cosmic brawl. Armed and Gelatinous: Couch Edition is perfect for your next shindig, get-together, or soiree!


Xbox Live

Candle Knight

JanduSoft


$12.49

$9.99

Candle Knight – May 2
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Play as an enchanted candle holder trying to restore the light to its home. Wield your flame to overcome menacing creatures lurking in the shadows of a ruined castle, use the dynamic difficulty system to your advantage, traverse challenging platforming sections and solve cryptic puzzles inside surreal paintings in this 2.5D action-adventure platformer.


Xbox Live

Full Metal Sergeant

PolyCrunch Games

$9.99

Full Metal Sergeant – May 2
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Be the drill instructor! Insult recruits with no remorse! Can you transform flabby recruits into lean war machines within 12 weeks?


Xbox Live

MotoGP™24

Milestone S.r.l.

$49.99

MotoGP 24 – May 2
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Embark on your quest to become a MotoGP legend and shape your own epic saga. From humble beginnings to triumphant heights, the path is yours to forge. Engage in thrilling rivalries, build your reputation, and leave your mark on the history of your beloved team. Challenge your abilities in MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3, and immerse yourself in the exhilarating journey of the 2024 campaign.


Xbox Live

Sclash

Maximum Entertainment

$9.99

Sclash – May 2
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

A plug ’n’ play 2D samurai fighting game full of tension where one hit is enough to kill. Play as a hand-drawn samurai in beautiful painted settings and fight your opponent in epic solemn duels where each move matters. Manage your stamina well, breath, and take your time to land a deadly hit.


Xbox Live

Cyber Citizen Shockman 3: The princess from another world

Ratalaika Games S.L.

Cyber Citizen Shockman 3: The Princess from Another World – May 3
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

After Sonya wins a big prize in the lottery, she and Arnold travel to a tropical southern island to enjoy some well-deserved holidays. However, paradise soon turns into hell when a strange spaceship appears suddenly and starts attacking the city. Unable to just sit around and do nothing while chaos unfolds, Arnold and Sonya transform into Shockman and head to battle this new mysterious enemy in this retro platformer.


Xbox Live

Ready, Steady, Ship!

Untold Tales

Ready, Steady, Ship! – May 3

Your job is simple – rebuild the conveyor belts and get the goods flowing out of the factory. As you progress, you’ll be given all manner of tools, equipment, and conveyor parts to overcome obstacles. Forklifts, cranes, springboard conveyor belts, packing foam dispensers, the list goes on and on! So put on your thinking hard hats and start piecing together the puzzle.


Xbox Live

MiceGard

Desert Water Games

MiceGard – May 3
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

An adventure game where viking mice fight for honor, fame, and survival. Explore the world inspired by Norse mythology, meet with gods and warlocks, and seize the glory of the fiercest mouse-warrior in this action-packed saga!


The post Next Week on Xbox: New Games for April 29 to May 3 appeared first on Xbox Wire.