John Carpenter’s iconic 1982 horror classic “The Thing” has inspired countless creators over the years, including Computer Artworks, the studio behind 2002’s The Thing, a video game adaptation that takes place after the events of the film.

In the game, Captain J.F. Blake leads a team of U.S. Special Forces in an investigation of Outpost 31. There, Blake and his crew must defend themselves from hostile alien life, and each other, as infections arise.

Despite being released 20 years after the 1982 film, The Thing has become more of a challenge to revisit than its original source of inspiration. While you can easily purchase or stream the film, 2002’s The Thing often requires nostalgic gamers to track down a physical copy along with the necessary hardware to play it on.

This is where Nightdive comes in with The Thing: Remastered, available on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One today. It’s a revitalization of the almost-lost game that stays true to the creators’ original vision.

Understanding The Source Material

Nightdive’s goal is to bring lost and forgotten games like The Thing back from the depths. Not only so people can revisit their favorites on modern platforms like Xbox Series X|S, but also to preserve these games for future generations.

Game preservation is something I recently stressed the importance of while writing about Killing Time: Resurrected, and the same remains true for The Thing: Remastered. All games deserve to be preserved, but preservation isn’t as simple as applying a fresh coat of paint. One of the challenges in using remasters as a form of preservation is keeping the remaster as faithful to the original as possible.

With this in mind, Nightdive worked closely with members of the original Computer Artworks staff, including art director Ron Ashtiani and technical director Mark Atkinson, both of whom are well-versed in the game they helped create and the 1982 film.

“I‘d seen the film before the project, but re-watched it multiple times when we started the game,” explains Computer Artworks technical director, Mark Atkinson. “We wanted to preserve the feel of the movie and what made it scary in terms of a survival horror.”

For Ron Ashtiani, the movie “scared the hell out of me, but also sparked my interest in sci-fi horror.” He went on to reflect how ahead of its time the film was. “It was made before the days of studios relying on an abundance of CG effects to wow the viewer.”

In addition to being ahead of its time visually, “The Thing” benefited from the captivating performance of actors like Kurt Russel and Keith David, and well-written screenplay courtesy of Bill Lancaster.

“I think one of the reasons ‘The Thing’ still holds up is due to the lingering mystery at the end — who was the Thing? It’s a smart movie, a masterclass in cinema,” remarks Joel Welsh, art lead on The Thing: Remastered at Nightdive Studios.

While it’s not required to watch “The Thing” before playing The Thing: Remastered, it does help broaden your knowledge of the peril Captain J.F. Blake and his team face as they explore Outpost 31. Both from alien creatures, and each other.

“Every scene was carefully detailed to make you wonder and be suspicious about everyone the whole time,” says Grover Wimberly IV, Nightdive’s project manager and producer on The Thing: Remastered. “For fans of Nightdive games who haven’t had a chance to watch ‘The Thing,’ I’d suggest watching before diving into the game.”

Remastering With The Masters

Mark Atkinson oversaw many technical aspects with 2002’s The Thing in addition to contributing to the game’s original design and coding alongside Computer Artworks’ talented team of engineers. Working on The Thing: Remastered with Nightdive, Atkinson took on a similar role.

“On the remaster, Ron and I were involved from the start, resurrecting the old code and master quality art assets, and helping guide the Nightdive team, e.g. what was intentional vs. where we just ran out of time to polish,” notes Atkinson.

“The remaster adds many significant upgrades in terms of gameplay, level design, UI, HUD etc., which go beyond a simple 4K reskin. Ron and I gave the green light to all of that, as well as consulting Andrew Curtis, the original game designer. In practical terms, I did a significant amount of C++ work as we wanted to really take the opportunity to make the remaster as good as possible.”

When asked about his experience working on 2002’s The Thing, Ashtiani recalls, “I joined the art team at Computer Artworks just after the game was fully signed after a successful prototype. Back then, art teams weren’t siloed into specific fields, but I mainly worked on the environments and built around half of the levels in the game.”

Again, Ashtiani reprised this hands-on role with The Thing: Remastered: “My role with Nightdive has been to co-lead the art team as the vision holder for the look of the game. I worked on setting the art direction for the remaster and ensuring that while we remaster the graphics and art assets, we don’t lose the essence of the original game.”

And this is important, because the essence of the original is inherently special. For the entire team, not just the artists, 2002’s The Thing needed to align with the 1982 film, and that took making the most of the technology and tools that were available at the time.

“We did the best we could with what we had,” Ashtiani explains. “We put a lot of work into capturing the isolation of the Antarctic and created a host of new and interesting creatures. However, lighting was an area we couldn’t match until the remaster.”

As well as the technical limitations, time constraints also contributed to some of the quirks players encountered in 2002’s The Thing, which Atkinson says has been addressed in the remaster.

”People loved the original game, but had some legitimate complaints, e.g. the scripted burst-outs, the difficulty is uneven, the combat was a little janky, the boss fights weren’t great,” admits Atkinson. “We went hard on fixing all that.”

The Thing: Remastered also benefits from the addition of modern gameplay elements such as third-person aiming, quick select wheels, the ability to use a controller on PC, and more. In terms of difficulty, Atkinson notes, “the game is still fairly hard, but not in such an uneven and sometimes frustrating way as the original.” There’s also the option now for players to select an easier difficulty setting, further expanding the game’s approachability.

Seconding this, Ashtiani says the remaster is true to 2002’s The Thing, but with improved gameplay balancing, control systems, UI improvements, among other quality-of-life adjustments.

“Graphically, it’s a big leap forward,” Ashiani adds. “We’ve been able to use all the lighting technology of today, plus higher resolution models and textures. We even managed to add some assets that were cut from the original game, creature variations in particular.”

A Team Effort

Having a team you can trust is important, not only when attempting to survive in the world of The Thing, but also in developing a quality remaster. Trust, communication, and teamwork between the original developers and the developers at Nightdive Studios were integral in resurrecting 2002’s The Thing.

“We made it a point to make sure Ron and Mark’s input were taken throughout the development process by consulting and having them at our team meetings when discussing adjustments, enhancements, and fixes to make sure it fit the spirit of the original 2002 release,” explains Wimblerly IV.

“Ron and Mark certainly left their mark, along with the rest of the team,” praises Welsh. “This is Nightdive/Atari’s most ambitious remaster to date, and we hope Xbox players have a blast with it. Just remember: No One Survives Alone!”

You don’t have to take our word for it, though. Whether you’re a fan of 2002’s The Thing, or simply want to check out a classic game you previously missed out on, you’ll be able to pay an eventful visit to Outpost 31 when The Thing: Remastered releases on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S today.

The Thing: Remastered

Nightdive Studios

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

No One Survives Alone.

The 2002 third-person survival horror shooter that serves as a sequel to the genre-defining 1982 film is back, remastered by Nightdive Studios to bring this innovative blend of fast paced squad action meets survival horror to the modern era. Including Antialiasing, Per Pixel Lighting, 4K Resolution and up to 120 FPS.

Where the movie ended, the true terror begins.

You are Cpt J.F. Blake, leader of a U.S. Special Forces rescue team sent to investigate the blood-curdling events and enigmatic deaths of the American scientific team that transpired at the Outpost 31 research facility located in the frozen wastelands of Antarctica. Within these inhospitable surroundings your team encounters a strange shape-shifting alien life-form that assumes the appearance of people that it kills. Trapped by the elements and infected by this horrific entity, using all your team members is critical if you hope to accomplish your objectives, let alone survive. If you only knew which ones were still human…

As we approach the highly anticipated launch of Legacy of Kain Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered, we’re diving deep into the series’ legendary roots, the artistry behind its remaster, and the exciting enhancements Xbox players can look forward to.

The Legacy of the Legacy of Kain

Very few franchises in gaming history boast the narrative depth and artistic ambition of Legacy of Kain. Since its debut in 1996 with Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain, the series has delivered an intricate saga of betrayal, destiny, and free will. Among its chapters, Soul Reaver stands out as a groundbreaking entry, weaving the tragic tale of Raziel, a once-loyal lieutenant of Kain, resurrected to seek vengeance against his creator.

Soul Reaver introduced players to a hauntingly beautiful world, brimming with gothic architecture, complex puzzles, and a legendary narrative. Its dual-realm exploration, allowing Raziel to shift between the material and spectral planes, was a revolutionary feature together with seamless level streaming that cemented the game’s place in history. Raziel’s journey from vengeance to self-discovery resonates even today, making him one of gaming’s most beloved anti-heroes.

Bringing Soul Reaver Back to Life

We had the opportunity to speak with Monika Erosova, Head of Development for the remaster, about the incredible effort it took to bring Soul Reaver into the modern era. Erosova described the process as “a labor of love,” with a focus on preserving the essence of the original while reimagining its visuals for modern hardware.

The remaster boasts meticulously updated textures, dynamic shadows for characters and objects, and brand-new character models. Raziel and Kain designs, in particular, were treated with care to honor their iconic look while amplifying details such as Raziel’s tattered wings now having translucent edges.

“We aimed to match their looks from their highly detailed FMV render models, but also made sure that they will still fit within the in-game world,” Erosova said, highlighting that preserving the original lighting played a critical role in creating the remaster’s atmospheric tone, ensuring Nosgoth feels as eerie and immersive as ever. The addition of the day and night cycle further enhances this and provides a more varied gameplay experience when returning to the areas you visited previously.

The original Soul Reaver FMV intro is perhaps one of the most legendary introductions into a video game ever. However, the original game release had severely limited resolution and simply does not hold up on modern screens anymore.

“My dream was always to be able to update it one day and that has finally come to fruition!” exclaimed Erosova. “The archive provided us with the necessary source files and while some parts were missing and had to be remade, it was enough for us to be able to fully reconstruct the FMV in HD graphics. It was not an easy feat, but we pushed through until we were able to render all the scenes in highest fidelity. We hope that fans will enjoy this latest version of the iconic FMV just as we do.”

Being an artist at heart, Erosova felt straight at home in her role on this project: “I simply love texture archaeology. I collected a vast library of reference books during my modding days so I was able to apply all my in-depth knowledge of the Soul Reaver games and also managed to find even more source textures than ever before, making the Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered superior to any of my previous modding work, becoming the definitive experience.”

She also mentioned the people who have been her inspiration for all these years: “It would definitely have to be Amy Hennig, Daniel Cabuco, basically the whole Soul Reaver team. I would like to send special thanks to Daniel for being such an amazing mentor figure – without his advice I would not be where I am as an artist!”

Recreating the FMV, however, was not the only improvement included in this release.The team also added many quality-of-life improvements such as customizable controls with camera movement on the right analogue stick or a mouse if you prefer, the photo mode, a cutscene skipper (super useful for repeated playthroughs), multi-language support with subtitles, extensive Bonus Materials section and much more.

“We even managed to restore the dynamic music which was missing in the original pc release of Soul Reaver!” Erosova adds. “These games would not be the same without the atmospheric music of Kurt Harland and the way it reacts in real time to the player’s experiences in the game.”

Erosova is also a devoted fan of the series and has shared her love of Raziel through cosplay and countless many projects such as the most recent artbook called The Art of Soul Reaver, created several texture mods for both Tomb Raider and Soul Reaver games, and regularly posts lore videos on YouTube on her The Ancient’s Den channel co-maintained by her fellow lore master, Bazielim, who is also well known figure in the Legacy of Kain community.

Features Overview

Enhanced Gameplay: Quality-of-life updates include a fan favorite feature “Photo Mode” and a brand-new map and compass system, designed to aid exploration without sacrificing the game’s intentionally challenging navigation.

Achievements and Trophies: A fully fleshed-out achievement list gives players new goals to strive for as they traverse the decaying Nosgoth.

Xbox-Specific Features: Optimized for Xbox consoles, this remaster includes 4K resolution support, faster load times, and enhanced framerates and textures.

Additionally, the Bonus Materials Menu allows players to dive deeper into the Soul Reaver universe. From the restored “Lost Levels” to the reimagined maps of Nosgoth and never-before-seen artwork, this remaster celebrates every facet of the game’s legacy.

Whether you’re returning to Nosgoth or visiting it for the first time, Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered promises an unforgettable journey.

Pre-order now on Xbox and prepare to unleash Raziel’s vengeance on December 10, 2024!

Legacy of Kain Soul Reaver 1&2 Remastered

Aspyr

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$26.99

Pre-order

Pre-order now to save 10%!

Celebrate Soul Reaver’s 25th Anniversary
Experience the epic conflict of Kain and Raziel in original form or with remastered graphics.

Included Game Titles
Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver
Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 2

Experience the Legendary Narrative
Centuries after your former master, Kain, betrays and executes you, you rise again and embark on a relentless quest for revenge.

Wield the Powers of a Wraith
Slay your former vampire brethren with your claws, bolts of telekinetic energy, and the elemental Wraith Blade. Grow stronger by devouring the souls of your enemies.

Shift Between Realms
The Elder God has granted you the ability to shift between the Spectral and Material Realms. Traverse the realms to solve puzzles, reveal new paths, and defeat your foes.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed each December to promote awareness, understanding and equal participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of society and development. At Xbox, we view play as a fundamental aspect of today’s society that should be accessible to as many people as possible. We strive to create inclusive experiences that empower players to enjoy the games they want, in the ways they want, surrounded by the communities they want to play with.  

Today and every day, we want to recognize the contributions that members of the Gaming and Disability community have made to help co-create more accessible experiences with us, across a variety of projects. This includes members of Team Xbox like Principal Firmware Engineer, Stan Adermann, whose lived experience with disability served as the catalyst for creating some of our newest controller remapping features: 

“My own disability is mild Essential Tremor, along with pain in my hands from years of software development,” Stan shared. “Playing certain games on PC was aggravating my pain issues, so I dug in to see what could make the use of controllers on PC even easier for players with similar pain issues, or those who simply wanted more options that allow them to customize their gameplay. Mapping mouse movements to controllers and toggle holds were a start. Mapping joystick movements to buttons or keyboard keys was also critical.”

Spanning from the recently announced Xbox Adaptive Joystick and 3D printable files for adaptive thumbstick toppers, available with Xbox Design Lab, to additional updates we’re excited to share below, which aim to remove barriers for even more players across our platform, hardware, and game titles, we celebrate the contributions of people with disabilities whose guidance and input has played a critical role shaping inclusive gaming experiences.  

Remapping Options for Xbox Adaptive Controller and Elite Series 2 

Remapping is an important part of accessibility and allows players to change the default function of a specific key on a keyboard, mouse, or controller to better suit their preference or gaming needs. 

To provide even more flexibility for input remapping, we’ve recently rolled out the following capabilities in the Xbox Accessories App for the Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller and the Xbox Adaptive Controller:  

• Toggle holds: This feature is intended to help make using a controller even easier and supports players who have difficulty holding prolonged button presses. Similar to sticky keys on a computer, this allows players to denote any button or port on the Xbox Adaptive Controller, Xbox Adaptive Joystick, or Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller to stay ‘pressed’ until pressing again to release.  

• Map stick movement to button presses: Players can now map directional movements (up, down, left, and right) on their Elite Series 2 thumbsticks or external joysticks connected to the Xbox Adaptive Controller to button or keyboard presses. For example, moving the stick in the “up” direction can be mapped to the equivalent of pressing the “B” button on a traditional controller.  

• Map mouse inputs to controller: Thumbstick or joystick movement can now be mapped to mouse cursor movement. Additionally, buttons can be mapped to right, middle, and left mouse click. This feature alongside keyboard button mapping allows players to use their controllers as the equivalent of a mouse and keyboard for both gaming and non-gaming scenarios on PC. As an example, players could use an Xbox Adaptive Controller to view a game guide on YouTube during a break in the action, make a PowerPoint presentation or check email. 

• Map hat switch to alternate joystick: For external joysticks with hat switches, players can now map the hat switch to operate as the opposite stick when attached to your Xbox Adaptive Controller.   

Visual Accessibility Updates for Diablo IV 

Accessibility was a top priority for the development team and Drew McCrory, lead accessibility developer for Diablo, throughout the creation of Diablo IV. In October, the team added even more options to the existing suite of accessibility features in the game. Focusing primarily on accessibility for players who are blind or have low vision, these new features include:  

• Auto-Pin: This is a new feature that automatically drops a map pin on the destination of your selected quest or task from your in-game Journal.   

• Audio Navigation Assistance: With this feature enabled, the player receives spatial audio pings that direct the player towards their placed pin on the overworld map. This feature, in conjunction with auto-pin navigation, allows players to navigate through quest content while tracking their destination through audio navigation.  

• Compass: The compass feature enables an on-screen HUD element that circles around the player and points towards their placed in-world pin. In combination with auto-pin, this provides consistent guidance to the player.  

Diablo IV was recently nominated in the “Innovation in Accessibility” category for the 2024 Game Awards. 

To learn more, read the full Blizzard blog post detailing these updates here. 

Accessibility Features in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 

Call of Duty introduced new features with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, including asymmetrical hearing compensation, improved high contrast mode, and an updated accessibility settings menu. Throughout the development process, the team consulted with the accessibility advocates to build and test. The game also supports all the familiar features that were available in Modern Warfare III, like reduce motion blur and joystick setting options.  

Additionally, new arachnophobia settings allow players to change the appearance of spider-like enemies, additional HUD layout options have been added, and Intelligent Movement settings provide additional support for players to tailor their experience to meet their needs! The team was recently recognized for its efforts and nominated for an “Innovation in Accessibility” award by The Game Awards. 

Check out the details of these settings here. 

Celebrating the Life of Ibelin in World of Warcraft  

To celebrate release of “The Remarkable Life of Ibelin” on Netflix and the life of Mats “Ibelin” Steen – a Norwegian WoW player with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, World of Warcraft released the Reven pack in Modern and Classic World of Warcraft. “Reven” means “the fox” in Norwegian, and players can purchase this curious companion to support CureDuchenne, a global nonprofit leader in research, patience care, and innovation for improving and extending the lives of individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a progressive neuromuscular disease. 

Read more about the Reven pack and CureDuchenne here.  

You can learn more about Microsoft’s approach to Inclusive Design at https://inclusive.microsoft.design.

The holiday season is upon us once more. It’s a time for giving, merriment, joy, and maybe a little gaming! Whether you’re shopping for a loved one or treating yourself,  our Designed for Xbox partners’ products are the perfect choice.  

Need a new controller like the latest Razer Wolverine V3 Pro to enhance your gameplay over the winter break? Maybe an audio upgrade with the Arctic Gamebuds or the Corsair Virtuoso Max? Perhaps it’s the right moment to set up that simulation rig you’ve been dreaming of! Whatever your gaming needs, our Designed for Xbox Holiday Gift Guide has got you covered. You’ll find a variety of options in form factor, price range, and categories to take your gaming to the next level. 

As always, the Designed for Xbox team wishes you good health and a fantastic holiday season.

Ultimate Control

PowerA FUSION Pro Wireless Controller 

The PowerA FUSION Pro Wireless Controller for Xbox Series X|S with Lumectra is a game-changer you need to see to believe! With Lumectra Ghost RGB LED lighting, Quick-Twist Thumbsticks (patent pending) adjustable to three heights, and Hall Effect Modules for precision and reliability, this controller is packed with features. Enjoy low latency wireless, four mappable buttons, and up to 30 hours of battery life. Plus, it includes a magnetic charger, 10-foot USB-C cable, display stand, and protective case.  

The PowerA FUSION Pro Wireless Controller is available for purchase for $149.99 USD ERP. Visit PowerA for more information.  

PDP REALMz Minecraft – Diamond Print Wireless Controller 

Experience gaming like never before with the Minecraft Diamond Print REALMz Wireless Controller! Perfect for Minecraft fans, this one-of-a-kind controller features a collectible Steve figurine inside the grip and a cool diamond design. With a 30-foot wireless range, and up to 40 hours of play time, it’s built for marathon mining sessions. Take your gameplay to the next level with dual rumble motors, programmable buttons, customizable LED lighting and built-in volume controls. Plus, it includes an exclusive in-game digital code for the Minecraft Time Flies tee! 

The PDP REALMz Minecraft Wireless Controller is available today for $79.99 USD ERP. Visit PDP for more information.  

Razer Wolverine V3 Pro Wireless Esports Controller for Xbox & PC 

Elevate your gaming experience this holiday season with the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro Wireless Controller. Featuring Razer Mecha-Tactile Action Buttons and D-Pad for responsive, accurate control, this controller ensures you stay ahead of the competition. Customize your gameplay with six remappable multi-function buttons and trigger stops for rapid-fire accuracy. Enjoy seamless connectivity with both wired and wireless modes, and up to 30 hours of battery life. Complete with Chroma RGB lighting for a personalized touch. 

The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro Wireless Esports Controller is available for $199.99 USD ERP. Visit Razer for more information.  

MSI Force Pro Wireless S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Edition 

MSI and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl have joined forces to release the exclusive Force Pro Wireless S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Edition, a co-branded gaming controller that embodies the unique color scheme of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 universe. This controller, Designed for Xbox, supports Tri-mode connection, enabling 2.4GHz wireless connectivity to PC, 5.2 Bluetooth connection to Android devices, and a wired connection to Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One. It features 3-level precise Hall effect triggers, 4 remappable rear buttons, and 4 vibration motors for immersive haptic feedback. Players can personalize their experience using the included accessories and MSI Center software, allowing for easy customization of the controller’s appearance and performance. Elevate your gaming setup and dive deeper into the world of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 with this exceptional collaboration! 

The MSI Force Pro Wireless Controller S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Edition is available for $139.99 USD ERP. Visit MSI for more information. 

GameSir T7 Wired Controller for Xbox 

The GameSir T7 stands out with its blend of affordability, durability, functionality, and striking design. It features anti-drift Hall Effect sticks and precision-tuned Hall Effect triggers, ensuring smooth and reliable gameplay for up to 5 million cycles. With four rumble motors, the T7 delivers immersive, lifelike feedback that brings every game to life. Its ergonomic design, matte-textured surface, and laser-textured grips guarantee comfort and control during extended sessions. With a unique color palette and subtle translucency, it offers a high-tech, premium look crafted for modern players. Quickly switch profiles on the fly to seamlessly transition between different games and gaming styles, making it the ideal companion for any player.

The GameSir T7 Wired Controller for Xbox is available in three eye-catching colors – Creamsicle White, Ruby Red, and Sapphire Blue – for $34.99 USD ERP. Visit GameSir for more information.  

Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot Smart Controller for PC & Xbox  

The Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot controller introduces unique rotating button/stick modules so players can easily switch from a traditional FPS layout to other configurations suited to fighting, racing, and other game types. It connects to Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One as an advanced wired controller, and also works with PCs in wireless or wired mode, and with compatible Android 8.0+ smart TVs via Bluetooth. The Connected Command Display lets players easily check social notifications and customize the controller’s settings. With AntiDrift thumbsticks, adjustable triggers, four mappable buttons, and Pro-Aim Focus Mode, the Stealth Pivot’s got it all. Plus, the Turtle Beach Control Center 2 app lets players fine-tune everything from EQ presets to vibration feedback.  

The Turtle Beach Stealth Pivot is available for $129.99 USD ERP. Visit Turtle Beach for more information. 

Hyperkin DuchesS 

The Hyperkin DuchesS wired controller is a nostalgic replica of the original Xbox Controller S. It features hall effect sticks for high precision controls, impulse triggers for immersive feedback, a share button to showcase your epic moments, immersive vibration, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a 10 ft. detachable USB-C cable for low latency and fast responsive gaming. It’s compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows 10|11. The DuchesS offers a classic design, for modern gaming! 

The Hyperkin DuchesS controller is available in both Black and White for $49.99 USD ERP. Visit Hyperkin for more information.  

Audio Upgrades

SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds for Xbox 

The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds are designed to give you an amazing gaming experience across multiple devices with crystal-clear sound and ultra-low latency 2.4GHz wireless, plus Bluetooth 5.3 for mobile. They feature Active Noise Cancellation to block out background noise, letting you focus entirely on your game. With over 100 audio presets, you can customize your sound to fit any game or mood. Stay gaming for up to 10 hours per use, with 3 full extra charges in the case. You can even charge them wirelessly for added convenience. With different sized ear tips to ensure the perfect fit for everyone, they’re super comfy for long gaming sessions and come with a built-in microphone for chatting with your squad.  

The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds for Xbox are available for $159.99 USD ERP. Visit SteelSeries for more information. 

Turtle Beach Stealth 500 Wireless Multiplatform Gaming Headset  

The Designed for Xbox Turtle Beach Stealth 500 redefines what an “entry-level” wireless headset is capable of. With the Stealth 500, players can connect to Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One over a lossless 2.4GHz wireless connection, then simply hit the QuickSwitch button to toggle and connect to Windows PCs, other consoles, and mobile gaming devices via Bluetooth 5.2. Precision-tuned, amplified 40mm drivers and extensive audio tuning via Turtle Beach’s Swarm II app deliver ultra-clear, customizable audio optimized for spatial sound, while a floating headband and memory foam cushions provide ultra-lightweight comfort. The Stealth 500 also lets players chat with ultra-clear voice accuracy through its omni-directional flip-to-mute microphone and has a whopping 40-hour battery life. 

Grab the Turtle Beach Stealth 500 Multiplatform Gaming Headset for $79.99 USD ERP. Visit Turtle Beach for more information.  

Corsair VIRTUOSO MAX for Xbox 

The VIRTUOSO MAX Wireless Gaming Headset for Xbox is designed to provide an exceptional audio experience. Equipped with 50mm Graphene drivers that deliver super clear and precise sound, this headset ensures you hear every detail in your games. Additionally, it includes a Dolby Atmos® for headphones license, which creates an immersive audio environment, making the game audio feel as if the action is happening all around you. The headset also features active noise cancellation, eliminating distractions and allowing for uninterrupted gameplay. With support for dual-wireless connectivity with your smartphone and up to 60 hours of battery life (with RGB off), the VIRTUOSO MAX ensures extended gaming sessions while maintaining connectivity to the outside world.  

The Corsair VIRTUOSO MAX Wireless Gaming Headset for Xbox is available for $329.99 USD ERP. Visit Corsair for more information.  

Logitech G ASTRO A50 (Gen 5) LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset + Base Station 

A50 (Gen 5) LIGHTSPEED Wireless + Base Station is made to play. With PLAYSYNC AUDIO, you can connect and quickly switch between multiple  gaming systems including Xbox Series X|S, PS5, Nintendo Switch, PC and more, all from a single button on the headset. PRO-G GRAPHENE audio drivers achieve unprecedented clarity and precision, critical for full immersion and in-game decision making. 24-bit LIGHTSPEED delivers the highest levels of wireless performance, and the 48 kHz high-res microphone provides broadcast quality sound for your voice. A50 LIGHTSPEED Wireless + Base Station is a breakthrough in design and engineering for the ultimate multi-platform console gaming experience. 

The Logitech G ASTRO A50 (Gen 5) LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset + Base Station is available for $299.99 USD ERP. Visit Logitech G  for more information.  

Adaptive Setups

ByoWave Proteus Controller 

The ByoWave Proteus Controller officially launched this year at gamescom 2024, and it is an absolute game changer. This modular controller lets you customize your gaming experience like never before. With a jaw-dropping 100 million different combinations, you can adjust the controller to fit your play style perfectly. Whether you like playing with one hand or two, prefer a vertical or horizontal layout, or want a wide or compact design, the Proteus Controller has got you covered. Plus, it’s super easy to snap together the pieces and save your favorite setups for different games. Compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows 10|11, it’s a perfect gift for players who want flexibility and fun. 

The ByoWave Proteus Controller is available for $299 USD ERP. Visit ByoWave for more information.  

8BitDo Lite SE 2.4G Wireless Controller for Xbox 

The 8BitDo Lite SE 2.4G Wireless Controller for Xbox is specifically designed for gamers with limited mobility playing on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows platforms. It features highly sensitive buttons and joysticks, ensuring ease of use and an enjoyable gaming experience. Additionally, it includes large, programmable Super Buttons that can be customized on-the-fly without any additional software. It also incorporates a 3.5mm audio jack and a non-slip mat to ensure stability during gameplay. With its lightweight design, compact form factor, and impressive battery life, this controller is ideal for gaming in various settings. 

The 8BitDo Lite SE 2.4G Wireless Controller for Xbox is available for $59.99 USD ERP. Visit 8BitDo for more information.  

Specialized Controls

Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick 

Knock out the competition with the fully customizable Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One. Ensure precise hits with reliable and hot-swappable Cherry MX Speed Silver RGB switches, ideal for clutch moments. Designed to fit your play style, the Victrix Pro KO includes customizable lighting, 16 moveable and mappable buttons, button organizers for easy transportation, plus a control bar for swift adjustments. For those who love to mod, you’ll appreciate the removable aluminum top plate allowing you to adjust button positions or change to your preferred switches. Elevate your gaming and compete at a professional level today. 

Pre-order the Victrix Pro KO Leverless Fight Stick now for $249.99 USD ERP and receive it in time for the holidays. Visit Turtle Beach for more information. 

Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas One Microsoft Flight Simulator Edition 

If you’re ready to awaken your inner pilot, the T.Flight Hotas One Microsoft Flight Simulator Edition is your ticket to the skies! Perfect for both Xbox Series X|S and PC, this joystick makes flying in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and other flight simulation games super easy. With its official Microsoft Flight Simulator license, it brings realistic flying sensations right into your living room. Adjust the resistance of your joystick and enjoy the detachable throttle just how you like for extra comfort. Plus, it’s plug-and-play, so you can start your flight adventure fun without any setup hassle. 

The Thrustmaster T.Flight Hotas One Microsoft Flight Simulator Edition is available for $99.99 USD ERP. Visit Thrustmaster for more information.  

MOZA R3 Racing Wheel and Pedals for Xbox 

The MOZA R3 Racing Wheel and Pedal Bundle for Xbox includes everything you need for an amazing racing experience—the R3 base with powerful 3.9 Nm direct drive power, ES steering wheel made for Xbox, and SR-P Lite pedals. It’s super easy to set up with plug-and-play functionality, so you can start racing right away on your Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, or PC. The R3 base is sturdy, made from aluminum alloy, and has a smart cooling system to keep things running smoothly. The ES wheel is built to last with its sturdy grips and metal frame, and you can quickly swap wheels thanks to its clever design. The SR-P Lite pedals are super responsive, giving you precise control over your driving. Plus, with colorful lights and 22 programmable buttons, customizing your race has never been this fun.  

The MOZA R3 Racing Wheel and Pedals for Xbox are available for $399.99 USD ERP. Visit MOZA for more information.  

Level Up Your Setup

8BitDo Retro 87 Keyboard and Retro R8 Mouse 

The 8BitDo Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard and Retro R8 Mouse – Xbox Edition are officially licensed Xbox peripherals that bring the nostalgia of the original Xbox console to modern PC setups. Inspired by the iconic Transparent Green Edition of the OG Xbox, these devices blend retro aesthetics with advanced functionality. The keyboard features an independent control panel, finely tuned crystal-green keycaps, programmable Super Buttons, and customizable RGB lighting. The mouse boasts a seamlessly integrated charging dock, programmable buttons, and ambidextrous support for left- and right-handed use. Together, they deliver a cohesive and stylish experience for PC gaming and productivity. 

Pre-order the 8BitDo Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard for $119.99 USD ERP and the Retro R8 Mouse – Xbox Edition for $59.99 USD ERP. Visit 8BitDo for more information. 

WD_BLACK C50 2TB Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S 

With all the incredible game launches this year, your Xbox Series X|S game library is expanding rapidly!  The WD_BLACK C50 Storage Expansion Card for Xbox now offers up to 2TB* of additional space! Designed specifically for Xbox, this card has a superspeed NVMe SSD core, making your gaming experience smoother and faster. Thanks to the Xbox Velocity Architecture, the WD_BLACK C50 Storage Expansion Card for Xbox delivers blazing-fast performance similar to your console’s internal SSD. Plus, with Quick Resume support, you can jump between multiple games in no time. 

The WD_BLACK C50 2TB* Expansion Card for Xbox is available for $249.99 USD ERP. Visit Western Digital for more information.  

* 1GB = 1 billion bytes and 1TB = 1 trillion bytes. Actual user capacity may be less depending on operating environment. 

Hisense C2 Ultra TriChroma Laser Mini Projector Designed for Xbox 

The Hisense C2 Ultra projector is packed with premium gaming features like Auto Low Latency Mode and MEMC technology to give you super smooth gameplay. Play your favorite games with crystal-clear 4K UHD resolution and a 240-frame refresh rate on basically any flat surface around your house. It has a huge projection size range from 65 to 300 inches and can adjust to fit perfectly in any space. The integrated JBL speakers deliver booming audio that makes you feel like you’re gaming in a movie theater. Whether you’re a player or just love watching movies, the C2 Ultra is the ultimate gift for top-notch picture and sound quality. 

The Hisense C2 Ultra TriChroma Mini Projector for Xbox is now available for $2,499.99 USD ERP. Visit Hisense for more information.  

Just like this year, 2025 is shaping up to be another incredible for hardware with new and exciting products to help taking your gaming to the next level, stay tuned! From all of us at Designed for Xbox, have a great holiday and a happy New Year!  

Prepare to face Karkonos, the fearsome new Behemoth debuting in Dauntless on December 5 as part of the Dauntless: Awakening update.

This is the largest update ever to our monster-slaying, free-to-play action-RPG. Featuring revamped progression systems, powerful new weapons, and a new Behemoth, it’s a transformative leap forward. With fresh challenges and a community-informed development roadmap, Dauntless: Awakening sets the stage for an exciting future in the Shattered Isles.

And at the heart of all this lies our newest Behemoth, the fearsome Karkonos. This monstrous creation is the result of months of collaboration between the Dauntless team and its passionate community. Today, we’re peeling back the curtain to reveal how the newest addition to the Shattered Isles was brought to life, from initial concept to final in-game implementation. Along the way, you’ll see how community feedback helped shape Karkonos and why this Behemoth is a testament to the power of collaboration.

A Concept Born from Community

The origins of Karkonos trace back to a community design livestream, where Dauntless players and developers collaborated in real time to envision the next Behemoth. The session was a creative melting pot, with Slayers sharing their ideas for a creature that was both visually striking and deeply tied to the lore of the Shattered Isles. Some players pushed for a towering, alien-like monster with intricate details, while others suggested grounding the design in real-world inspirations for a sense of familiarity.

From these discussions, a bold and imaginative concept emerged. However, as developers delved deeper into the initial sketches, it became clear that the design felt “too alien-like” and disconnected from the world of Dauntless. Brent Barrett, lead designer on Karkonos, recalls the iterative process: “The community’s ideas gave us a phenomenal starting point for us to iterate on. We wanted Karkonos to feel like it truly belonged in the Shattered Isles.”

Feedback from the livestream continued to shape the Behemoth’s evolution. Players emphasized the importance of a creature that looked dangerous yet believable, inspiring the team to integrate real-world influences. Crab-like elements were introduced to anchor Karkonos visually, while its scorpion-inspired tail preserved its menacing edge. These design decisions balanced player creativity with the Dauntless aesthetic, resulting in a creature that feels both authentic and fresh.

This collaborative refinement process extended beyond visual design, laying the groundwork for a gameplay experience as dynamic and challenging as the Behemoth itself.

From Sketch to Savage: The Gameplay Experience

While Karkonos’ appearance sets the stage, its gameplay is where this Behemoth truly shines. The collaboration with the community extended into early playtests, where Slayers provided invaluable feedback on its mechanics.

Karkonos moves with a crab-like gait, forward and backward, but its attack patterns are anything but predictable. “Karkonos is mean,” Barrett says with a smile. “Its tail swipes and ground-shaking pincers have almost no tell, keeping players on edge. And it’s not just one-on-one, it threatens entire teams, forcing coordination and strategy.”

Key to the gameplay design was the balance of risk and reward. Moments of vulnerability, like when Karkonos pounds the ground with its pincers, offer skilled Slayers a chance to interrupt, but only if they act quickly and decisively. Community feedback fine-tuned these interactions, ensuring every encounter feels dynamic and rewarding.

A Challenge for All Slayers

Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned veteran, Karkonos offers something for everyone. For experienced players, it’s a punishing test of teamwork, adaptability, and precision. Its relentless attacks can target multiple players simultaneously, and its ability to Aether charge adds an unpredictable layer of intensity.

For newer Slayers, Karkonos provides an opportunity to sharpen your skills and experience the thrill of taking down a truly formidable foe. Environmental interactions, like avoiding falling debris or finding openings during Aether charges, ensure the fight remains engaging and accessible for all.

But the rewards are worth the effort. Slayers who conquer Karkonos can craft armor inspired by deep-sea diving suits, a nod to its undersea aesthetic. This set not only looks striking but offers the defensive advantages needed for future challenges.

The Future of Collaboration

The creation of Karkonos underscores the incredible potential of building Dauntless not just for players, but with players. Through live design streams, early playtests, and ongoing feedback, the community has left an enduring mark on the Shattered Isles.

And this is just the beginning. With Dauntless: Awakening heralding a new era, the team is committed to harnessing the passion and creativity of its players in even more meaningful ways, ensuring the voice of the community continues to drive the evolution of Dauntless.

Dauntless is back, stronger than ever, with more details about future collaborations on the horizon. Whether you’re a Slayer seeking your next great hunt or a creative mind ready to shape the Shattered Isles, your input will help define what’s next.

Join the conversation on our Discord to participate in these future collaborations.

Dauntless

Epic Games Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆
1388

★★★★★

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Xbox One X Enhanced

As a Slayer, you are all that stands between your world and the Behemoths that seek to devour it. Take on boss-sized monsters, forge powerful weapons, and craft armour from the very creatures you slay — all in a massive, free-to-play online world.