Next Week on Xbox: New Games for March 11 to 15

Next Week on Xbox Hero Image

Next Week on Xbox: New Games for March 11 to 15

Next Week on Xbox is a weekly feature that shows you all the games that are coming soon on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows, and Game Pass! You can find more information about these games below and click on their profiles for more details (release dates may change). Let’s get started!


Xbox Live

Contra: Operation Galuga + Early-purchase Bonus

KONAMI


$39.99

$35.99

Contra: Operation Galuga – March 12

A new entry in the legendary Contra series is here! Contra: Operation Galuga is a thorough reimagining of the classic run-‘n’-gun action game from the ’80s, featuring modern graphics and sound, new stages, new enemies and bosses, new play mechanics, an updated weapons system, and explosive co-op combat for up to two players in Story Mode or four players in Arcade Mode!


Xbox Live
Xbox Play Anywhere

For The Warp

ImaginationOverflow

$17.49

For The Warp – March 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

For the Warp is a rogue-like deck-building game in space! Discover and add new cards to your arsenal and increase your chances of surviving. Explore procedurally generated systems and fight your way to the warp gate. Encounter allies and foes, ancient civilization ruins, unlock powerful technologies and ships.


Xbox Live

Cybertrash STATYX (Xbox Series X|S)

Sometimes You


$9.99

$7.99
Free Trial

Cybertrash STATYX – March 13
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Run, jump, slide, destroy enemies, gain experience points, upgrade your character in this tactical 2D action-platformer. As the main character, Janet, you’ll be plunged against an evil dictatorship, trying to remember the past and escape from the clutches of the corporation. Uncover the conspiracy against humanity!


Xbox Live

Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story

Digital Eclipse

$29.99

Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story – March 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

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.


Xbox Live

Violet Wisteria

Eastasiasoft Limited

Violet Wisteria – March 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Become a magical sword-wielding heroine and take on the forces of evil across time, space, and alternate dimensions! Return to the style of Japanese fantasy platformers from the ’80s and ’90s as you take command of brave heroine Wisteria Asagiri on her quest to save Earth, the Higher Realm and the Under-Realms from the dark wizard Maskandes!


Xbox Live

Dune: Imperium

Dire Wolf Digital

Dune: Imperium – March 13

Experience the ultimate blend of strategy and intrigue as you navigate the treacherous landscapes of Arrakis in the award-winning board game Dune: Imperium! Battle online, locally with AI, or against the formidable House Hagal. Earn achievements that showcase your prowess as a leader and embark on more than a dozen challenges that will test your wit and cunning.


Xbox Live

Treasures Of The Roman Empire

Strange Beat Games

Treasures of the Roman Empire – March 13

Whether you are below or above the ground, you will have a lot of work to do as you visit places like stables, bars, cinema, squared, forest, gigs, market, docks, luna park, Circo Massimo, and mor while trying to find all the hidden treasures left by the Romans.


Xbox Live
Xbox Play Anywhere

Astebros

PixelHeart

$12.99

Astebros – March 14

Astebros is a roguelite game about the beginnings of the kingdom of Asteborg! Choose your hero among three different characters and go through procedural dungeons to eliminate your formidable opponents! Defeat bosses to obtain valuable power orbs, collect coins and materials to buy and upgrade your equipment, and discover mysterious secrets within the dungeons.


Xbox Live

Bing In Wonderland Deluxe Edition

E-Home Entertianment Development Co., Ltd


$14.99

$13.49
Xbox One X Enhanced

Bing in Wonderful Deluxe Edition – March 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Bing in Wonderland is a new entry in the Wanba Warriors franchise. A Roguelite monster killing satisfaction galore without any exploration elements. The game is filled to the brim with exotic enemies and stages with a collection of deep and robust boons, weapons, and items plus an abundance of pointless features and useless details. You will be encapsulated by the unique Butt Slam mechanic a vague and abstract art style that puts Picasso to shame.


Xbox Live

Highwater

Rogue Games, Inc.

Highwater – March 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Highwater is a whimsical, 3D adventure game with an isometric turn-based puzzle-combat system set in a flooded, post-apocalyptic world. Navigate by boat, discover islands, find new allies to help battle foes, and experience a humorous tale about friendship in this melancholic and atmospheric escape.


Xbox Live

Match Village

QUByte Interactive

Match Village – March 14

A minimalistic puzzle and strategy experience about combining buildings to build villages on beautiful, procedurally generated islands. Combine buildings to create your villages and cities on endless islands scattered around the world and enjoy a minimalistic and relaxing atmosphere, no resource management or armies — just focus on building.


Xbox Live

Rebel Transmute

JanduSoft


$19.99

$17.99

Rebel Transmute – March 14

In this modern metroidvania you play as Moon Mikono, a space scrapper turned adventurer on a mission to uncover the true fate of her missing mother. Battle your way through a sprawling 2D action-exploration epic as you explore, reprogram your abilities, duel twisted sci-fi experiments, and rebel against colonizers.


Xbox Live

Sherlock Purr 2

COMMANDO PANDA

Sherlock Purr 2 – March 15

Our clever cat detective is back, and this time the mystery unfolds all over the apartment. Immerse yourself in an extended adventure full of intriguing challenges, vibrant colors, and brain-teasing puzzles. Sherlock Purr 2 is an enchanting children’s game, tailor-made for young explorers who love cats and crave delightful mysteries.


Xbox Live

STAR WARS™: Battlefront Classic Collection

Aspyr Media Inc.


$34.99

$31.49

Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection – March 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Play the classic Star Wars Battlefront games on modern consoles, online and offline in this complete classic collection. This Classic Collection includes Star Wars Battlefront (Classic) and Star Wars Battlefront II with bonus maps and heroes. Traverse the galaxy in Campaign Mode and Galactic Conquest. Fight on the ground, drive iconic vehicles, and piloty legendary starships as you battle it out across iconic Star Wars locations.


Xbox Live

Storyblocks: The King

Afil Games

Storyblocks: The King – March 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

An engaging puzzle and narrative game that offers a short and relaxing experience. In a charming medieval setting, players can carve their own path, choosing the next story block at each stage. With a library of journeys filled with intriguing variations of the main storyline, players are invited to unravel all possible outcomes.


Xbox Live

UNABLES

Forever Entertainment S. A.

Unables – March 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Unables is all about physics, puzzles, and comedy. Welcome to a world where characters are so lazy, that even the player is unable to control them. Take matters into your own hands by controlling the environment instead, with the innovative gameplay mechanics!


Xbox Live

Argonauts Agency 5: Captive of Circe

8floor ltd

Argonauts Agency 5: Captive of Circle – March 15

A courier arrived at the Argonauts Agency one calm morning. He delivered a wedding invitation for Jason and Medea from Pelias, their old friend and a fellow collector. A secret plea for help was also in the letter. Jason and Medea won’t let their friends down! Play the new time management game with the Argonauts, find out about Circe’s story, and rescue her captives!


Xbox Live

Crown Wars: The Black Prince Pre-order

Nacon

$49.99

Crown Wars: The Black Prince – March 15
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Knights and brigands run rampant throughout the land, sowing destruction. But an even greater evil is lurking and plotting in the shadows. At the helm of your domain, lead the fight against the forces of evil in this turn-based tactics and strategy game.



Xbox Live

MLB® The Show™ 24 – MVP Edition (Pre-Order)

MLB

$84.99

MLB The Show 24 – MVP Edition & Digital Deluxe Editions – March 15 (Early Access)

It’s your Show. Ready to own it? Set out on the road to baseball greatness – whatever it is you want to achieve, MLB The Show 24 has got you covered. Earn your call up from the minors to the big leagues and prove you’ve got what it takes at the top. Learn from the legends of the sport, take inspiration from their heroics, and use it to improve your game. Pre-order to receive a Gold Choice Pack and early access starting on March 15, 2024. Game Pass members can start playing on March 15 as well with the purchase of the MLB The Show 24 – Digital Deluxe Add-On Bundle.


Xbox Live

Outcast – A New Beginning

THQ Nordic


$69.99

$59.49

Outcast: A New Beginning – March 15
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

20 years after the award-winning action adventure hit, Outcast, pioneered the genre of non-linear open-world games, the long-awaited sequel sees Cutter Slade return to the spectacular alien world of Adelpha. Resurrected by the almighty Yods, he has returned to find the Talans enslaved, the world stripped of its natural resources, and his own past intertwining with the invading robot forces. It’s up to him to go on a mission and save the planet again.



Xbox Live

PJ Masks Power Heroes: Mighty Alliance

Outright Games Ltd.

$39.99

PJ Masks Power Heroes: Mighty Alliance – March 15
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Catboy, Owlette, and Gekko are teaming up with An Yu, Newton Star, Ice Cub, Lilyfay, and Bastet to form a Mighty Alliance. Hop into the Explorider and search The City, Mystery Mountain, and Ice World for lost parts. But be quick! Before Romeo, Luna Girl, and Night Ninja get to them.


Xbox Live

Tiny Tales: Heart of the Forest (Xbox Version)

Artifex Mundi

Xbox One X Enhanced

Tiny Tales: Heart of the Forest – March 15
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Hidden deep in the foliage of the forest, between the blades of grass and mushrooms, there’s a place where tiny people coexist with animals. Our little hero Max suddenly interrupts the search for his father when he is called home to help his mother save his childhood home. Help Max to unravel mysteries, find clues in hidden objects and defeat all puzzles that stand in his path.



The post Next Week on Xbox: New Games for March 11 to 15 appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Xbox Insider Release Notes – Omega (2403.240306-1700)

Hey Xbox Insiders! We have a new Xbox Update Preview releasing to the Omega ring today.

It’s important we note that some updates made to these preview OS builds include background improvements that ensure a quality and stable build for Xbox consoles. We will continue to post these release notes, even when the noticeable changes to the UI are minimal or behind the scenes, so you’re aware when updates are coming to your device.

Details can be found below!

Xbox Insider Release Notes

System Update Details

  • OS Version: XB_FLT_2403ZN25398.3864.240306-1700
  • Available: 5 p.m. PT – March 7, 2024
  • Mandatory: 5 p.m. PT – March 8, 2024

Note: This update may not occur automatically before it has already become mandatory. You can always find the most current update as soon as it is available by opening the Guide > Profile & system > Settings > System > Updates.

Remember: Newly enrolled users in this ring are not guaranteed to receive all early updates, but they’ll receive the update prior to the GA release. Additionally, a small subset of users may remain on their current GA build once they enroll until the next system update becomes mandatory for the public. Visit the Xbox Insider Program FAQ to learn more.

Experience Changes

Please be aware this Xbox Update Preview includes the following experience or feature updates.

Microsoft Edge – Sidebar

  • To improve stability, all first-party hub apps including notably, Copilot Chat, Outlook, Teams, Games, and the ability to add websites to the sidebar as well as the section in Settings are being removed. The shopping and browser essential features are still available.

Fixes Included

Thanks to all the great feedback Xbox Insiders provide and the hard work of Xbox engineers, we are happy to announce the following fixes have been implemented with this build:

Settings – Subscriptions

  • Fixes to address an unexpected error that could occur when viewing subscriptions.

System

  • Various stability and performance fixes.

Known Issues

While known issues may have been listed in previous Xbox Insider Release Notes, they are not being ignored! However, it may take Xbox engineers more time to find a solution. If you experience any of these issues, we ask that you please follow any guidance provided and file feedback with Report a Problem.

Audio

  • Some users have reported experiencing intermittent audio issues across the dashboard, games, and apps.
    • Troubleshooting: If you do experience issues, please confirm your TV and all other equipment have the latest firmware installed. If you are unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance. You can also find additional troubleshooting tips here: Troubleshoot audio on your Xbox console.
    • Feedback: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware and troubleshooting further, please submit feedback via Report a Problem when you are experiencing the issue. Use the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”.
      • Note: Be sure to include as much information as possible about the issue, when it started, your setup, troubleshooting you have completed, and any additional information that will help us reproduce the issue.

Networking

  • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to the network immediately on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.
    • Workaround: Wait a minute or two for the connection to establish. If your console still hasn’t connected, restart your Xbox from the Power Center or the guide then file feedback with Report a Problem. Learn more about restarting here: How to restart or power cycle your Xbox console.

As always, be sure to use Report a problem to keep us informed of any issues you encounter. We may not be able to respond to everyone, but the data we’ll gather is crucial to finding a resolution.

What Happens to Your Feedback

If you’re an Xbox Insider looking for support, please visit the community subreddit. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are there to help with your concerns.

When posting to the subreddit, please look through the most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to existing threads with the same issue before posting a new one. This helps us support you the best we can! Also, don’t forget to use “Report a Problem” before posting – the information shared in both places helps us understand your issue better.

Thank you to every Xbox Insider in the subreddit today and welcome to the community if you’re just joining us! We love that it has become such a friendly and community-driven hub of conversation and support.

For more information regarding the Xbox Insider Program follow us on Twitter. Keep an eye on future Xbox Insider Release Notes for more information regarding your Xbox Update Preview ring!

The post Xbox Insider Release Notes – Omega (2403.240306-1700) appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Wizard With a Gun: 5 Powerful Picks from the New Bounty of Guns Update

Hello Xbox fans! Our co-op sandbox survival game Wizard With a Gun unloads an expanded arsenal of new content today in Bounty of Guns, our newest free update! There’s a crate-load of fresh, awesome stuff in Bounty of Guns, including new enemies, events and fashionable furniture for your refuge in the Tower, but, as the name suggests, there’s one new feature in particular that wizards who love weapons will really get a kick out of.

Lucrative new Bounties offer you the chance to gain special rewards from an assortment of more than 50 firearms, and we’ve picked out five of our favourites to help kickstart your collection.

Fidrow Cultbuster

Favoured for its steady output, larger magazine size, and stronger bullets, the Fidrow Cultbuster is a great way to keep your enemies hiding behind cover. The Cultbuster has been banned on the plains after the Cult of Iron Massacre six years ago, but the contraband wand has found its way on the Shatter in the hands of those same cultists.

Odden’s Pointer

Odden Hammerite is a mechanist craftswoman from the eastern plains whose guns are recognizable from their brutalist designs. She’s a supplier of the Gladwell family, who value the added power the guns generate by charging up shots. Together, her line of guns is known as Odden’s Fist.

Vitriol

The Cult of Lead has developed numerous weapons to better spread poison and corruption. Vitriol is one of their most successful experimental weapons yet. Each shot adds an additional poison dose to its bullet, making it the ideal companion to lethal finisher spells!

Malediction

Draco Scarpath is renowned for his extraordinarily powerful gunmancy. The downside to his obsidian-infused wands is that every shot drains the life from their wielder’s body. The more powerful the gun, the higher a toll it takes. Most wizards stay far away from his cursed weapons… except those who prize power above all else.

Blightspreader

Since discovering the Infinite Well in the Tower, Orion has spent years trying to cleanse its poison. His idea for the Blightspreader came originally as a way to deliver antidotes faster than the Well’s rate of decay, but now his gun too has been corrupted. Orion has infused the minigun with the Well’s poison and wields it as a weapon against those who would attack Hilda and her Riders.

We hope you enjoy racking up Bounties, getting to grips with your new toys, and putting your Gun Racks to good use. Good luck, gunslingers! You’re gonna need it…

Wizard With a Gun is out now for Xbox Series X|S. The Bounty of Guns update arrives for free today.

The post Wizard With a Gun: 5 Powerful Picks from the New Bounty of Guns Update appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Xbox Insider Release Notes – Beta (2403.240305-2200)

Hey Xbox Insiders! We have a new Xbox Update Preview releasing to the Beta ring today.

It’s important we note that some updates made to these preview OS builds include background improvements that ensure a quality and stable build for Xbox consoles. We will continue to post these release notes, even when the noticeable changes to the UI are minimal or behind the scenes, so you’re aware when updates are coming to your device.

Details can be found below!

Xbox Insider Release Notes

System Update Details

  • OS Version: XB_FLT_2403ZN25398.3862.240305-2200
  • Available: 5 p.m. PT – March 6, 2024
  • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – March 7, 2024

Experience Changes

Please be aware this Xbox Update Preview includes the following experience or feature updates.

Microsoft Edge – Sidebar

  • All first-party hub apps including notably, Copilot Chat, Outlook, Teams, Games, and the ability to add websites to the sidebar as well as the section in Settings are being removed. The shopping and browser essential features are still available.

Fixes Included

Thanks to all the great feedback Xbox Insiders provide and the hard work of Xbox engineers, we are happy to announce the following fixes have been implemented with this build:

System

  • Various stability and performance fixes.

Known Issues

While known issues may have been listed in previous Xbox Insider Release Notes, they are not being ignored! However, it may take Xbox engineers more time to find a solution. If you experience any of these issues, we ask that you please follow any guidance provided and file feedback with Report a Problem.

Audio

  • Some users have reported experiencing intermittent audio issues across the dashboard, games, and apps.
    • Troubleshooting: If you do experience issues, please confirm your TV and all other equipment have the latest firmware installed. If you are unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance. You can also find additional troubleshooting tips here: Troubleshoot audio on your Xbox console.
    • Feedback: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware and troubleshooting further, please submit feedback via Report a Problem when you are experiencing the issue. Use the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”.
      • Note: Be sure to include as much information as possible about the issue, when it started, your setup, troubleshooting you have completed, and any additional information that will help us reproduce the issue.

Networking

  • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to the network immediately on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.
    • Workaround: Wait a minute or two for the connection to establish. If your console still hasn’t connected, restart your Xbox from the Power Center or the guide then file feedback with Report a Problem. Learn more about restarting here: How to restart or power cycle your Xbox console.

As always, be sure to use Report a problem to keep us informed of any issues you encounter. We may not be able to respond to everyone, but the data we’ll gather is crucial to finding a resolution.

What Happens to Your Feedback

If you’re an Xbox Insider looking for support, please visit the community subreddit. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are there to help with your concerns.

When posting to the subreddit, please look through the most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to existing threads with the same issue before posting a new one. This helps us support you the best we can! Also, don’t forget to use “Report a Problem” before posting – the information shared in both places helps us understand your issue better.

Thank you to every Xbox Insider in the subreddit today and welcome to the community if you’re just joining us! We love that it has become such a friendly and community-driven hub of conversation and support.

For more information regarding the Xbox Insider Program follow us on Twitter. Keep an eye on future Xbox Insider Release Notes for more information regarding your Xbox Update Preview ring!

The post Xbox Insider Release Notes – Beta (2403.240305-2200) appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha Skip-Ahead (2408.240303-2200)

Hey Xbox Insiders! We have a new Xbox Update Preview releasing to the Alpha Skip-Ahead ring today.

It’s important we note that some updates made to these preview OS builds include background improvements that ensure a quality and stable build for Xbox consoles. We will continue to post these release notes, even when the noticeable changes to the UI are minimal or behind the scenes, so you’re aware when updates are coming to your device.

Details can be found below!

Xbox Insider Release Notes

System Update Details

  • OS Version: XB_FLT_2408GE26070.1510.240303-2200
  • Available: 2 p.m. PT – March 6, 2024
  • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – March 7, 2024

Fixes Included

Thanks to all the great feedback Xbox Insiders provide and the hard work of Xbox engineers, we are happy to announce the following fixes have been implemented with this build:

System

  • Various stability and performance fixes.
  • Various updates to properly reflect local languages across the console.

Known Issues

While known issues may have been listed in previous Xbox Insider Release Notes, they are not being ignored! However, it may take Xbox engineers more time to find a solution. If you experience any of these issues, we ask that you please follow any guidance provided and file feedback with Report a Problem.

Audio

  • Some users have reported experiencing intermittent audio issues across the dashboard, games, and apps.
    • Troubleshooting: If you do experience issues, please confirm your TV and all other equipment have the latest firmware installed. If you are unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance. You can also find additional troubleshooting tips here: Troubleshoot audio on your Xbox console.
    • Feedback: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware and troubleshooting further, please submit feedback via Report a Problem when you are experiencing the issue. Use the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”.
      • Note: Be sure to include as much information as possible about the issue, when it started, your setup, troubleshooting you have completed, and any additional information that will help us reproduce the issue.

Networking

  • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to the network immediately on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.
    • Workaround: Wait a minute or two for the connection to establish. If your console still hasn’t connected, restart your Xbox from the Power Center or the guide then file feedback with Report a Problem. Learn more about restarting here: How to restart or power cycle your Xbox console.

As always, be sure to use Report a problem to keep us informed of any issues you encounter. We may not be able to respond to everyone, but the data we’ll gather is crucial to finding a resolution.

What Happens to Your Feedback

If you’re an Xbox Insider looking for support, please visit the community subreddit. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are there to help with your concerns.

When posting to the subreddit, please look through the most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to existing threads with the same issue before posting a new one. This helps us support you the best we can! Also, don’t forget to use “Report a Problem” before posting – the information shared in both places helps us understand your issue better.

Thank you to every Xbox Insider in the subreddit today and welcome to the community if you’re just joining us! We love that it has become such a friendly and community-driven hub of conversation and support.

For more information regarding the Xbox Insider Program follow us on Twitter. Keep an eye on future Xbox Insider Release Notes for more information regarding your Xbox Update Preview ring!

The post Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha Skip-Ahead (2408.240303-2200) appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Community Update March 2024 – Challenging Depths

Hi there, Xbox Insiders!

Welcome to the Show

We’re back with another Community Update to give you the rundown on everything you can expect this month. It’s a little less action-packed than we initially anticipated, but we still have a few updates to offer in this trying time.

The Start of Something New

Xbox Insiders who are on top of their Weekly Pulse Surveys may have noticed something a little different with this week’s question. For the month of March, we’re going to branch out from our traditional platform inquiries to learn a little more about our community. Specifically, we want to know what everyone’s ultimate pizza looks like.

A different facet of pizza creation (crust, toppings, sauce, etc.) will be included in each week’s Pulse Survey throughout the entire month. Once all the results have been tabulated from the surveys, we’ll use that “recipe” to create an Xbox Insider Pie for the Xbox Insider Program. The team will then give their reviews on the ‘za and see how our tastes line up with the community.

Is this an overly complicated way to throw a pizza party for the team? Or is it a test to see if the community will force us to eat a truly revolting, abomination of a pizza? To that I reply, “¿Por qué no los dos?”

Immersive

Despite a small delay toward the end of February, the train is still rolling for the “Get To Know Our Team” articles. Expect the remainder of these interviews to drop sporadically during March as we wind down the 10th Anniversary Celebrations. I’m excited for everyone to keep meeting the rest of the team, and some of my favorite stories are still upcoming!

Additionally, the Release Notes’ migration to their new home is fully underway. The preparations are coming along smoothly, and the team is getting prepared for an official launch soon. In the near future, we’ll post a more detailed explainer on the changes, as well as where to access Release Notes.

Famous Last Words

Since starting these Community Update posts, a few different projects have been teased throughout. There’s been some chatter regarding the status of said projects, so we wanted to give a quick update just to say everything is still being worked on. We’re striving to provide more transparency into our processes, but that also means we might get a little ahead of ourselves sometimes. Hopefully, we’ll have more concrete plans to share soon.

That’s the Hi-Fi

Another month of Xbox Insider is now underway. It’s our first month as a newly minted “double digit” lasting enterprise and we’re more energized than ever. The journey has been great so far, but it’s just getting started!

As always, I hope everyone enjoyed this installment of the Xbox Insider Program Community Update. If you want to chat about this—and everything else XIP—hop on over to the r/XboxInsiders subreddit or throw us a follow @xboxinsider.

Wynn/

The post Community Update March 2024 – Challenging Depths appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Xbox Insider Release Notes – Omega (2403.240229-2200)

Hey Xbox Insiders! We have a new Xbox Update Preview releasing to the Omega ring today.

It’s important we note that some updates made to these preview OS builds include background improvements that ensure a quality and stable build for Xbox consoles. We will continue to post these release notes, even when the noticeable changes to the UI are minimal or behind the scenes, so you’re aware when updates are coming to your device.

Details can be found below!

Xbox Insider Release Notes

System Update Details

  • OS Version: XB_FLT_2403ZN25398.3848.240229-2200
  • Available: 4 p.m. PT – March 5, 2024
  • Mandatory: 4 p.m. PT – March 6, 2024

Note: This update may not occur automatically before it has already become mandatory. You can always find the most current update as soon as it is available by opening the Guide > Profile & system > Settings > System > Updates.

Remember: Newly enrolled users in this ring are not guaranteed to receive all early updates, but they’ll receive the update prior to the GA release. Additionally, a small subset of users may remain on their current GA build once they enroll until the next system update becomes mandatory for the public. Visit the Xbox Insider Program FAQ to learn more.

Fixes Included

Thanks to all the great feedback Xbox Insiders provide and the hard work of Xbox engineers, we are happy to announce the following fixes have been implemented with this build:

Accessibility

  • Fixes to improve narrator readout in the guide when viewing friends and making changes to the friendship.

Capture & Share

  • Fixes to address an unexpected error in the guide when viewing recent captures.

Games

  • Fixed an issue where game saves could become inaccessible if the name was very long.

My Games & Apps

  • Fixed an unexpected delay that could occur when checking for recent updates for games and apps.

System

Known Issues

While known issues may have been listed in previous Xbox Insider Release Notes, they are not being ignored! However, it may take Xbox engineers more time to find a solution. If you experience any of these issues, we ask that you please follow any guidance provided and file feedback with Report a Problem.

Audio

  • Some users have reported experiencing intermittent audio issues across the dashboard, games, and apps.
    • Troubleshooting: If you do experience issues, please confirm your TV and all other equipment have the latest firmware installed. If you are unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance. You can also find additional troubleshooting tips here: Troubleshoot audio on your Xbox console.
    • Feedback: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware and troubleshooting further, please submit feedback via Report a Problem when you are experiencing the issue. Use the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”.
      • Note: Be sure to include as much information as possible about the issue, when it started, your setup, troubleshooting you have completed, and any additional information that will help us reproduce the issue.

Networking

  • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to the network immediately on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.
    • Workaround: Wait a minute or two for the connection to establish. If your console still hasn’t connected, restart your Xbox from the Power Center or the guide then file feedback with Report a Problem. Learn more about restarting here: How to restart or power cycle your Xbox console.

As always, be sure to use Report a problem to keep us informed of any issues you encounter. We may not be able to respond to everyone, but the data we’ll gather is crucial to finding a resolution.

What Happens to Your Feedback

If you’re an Xbox Insider looking for support, please visit the community subreddit. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are there to help with your concerns.

When posting to the subreddit, please look through the most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to existing threads with the same issue before posting a new one. This helps us support you the best we can! Also, don’t forget to use “Report a Problem” before posting – the information shared in both places helps us understand your issue better.

Thank you to every Xbox Insider in the subreddit today and welcome to the community if you’re just joining us! We love that it has become such a friendly and community-driven hub of conversation and support.

For more information regarding the Xbox Insider Program follow us on Twitter. Keep an eye on future Xbox Insider Release Notes for more information regarding your Xbox Update Preview ring!

The post Xbox Insider Release Notes – Omega (2403.240229-2200) appeared first on Xbox Wire.

The Critically Acclaimed Mediterranea Inferno is Now Available on Xbox Series S|X

A Treacherous Visual Novel Set in Italy about Friendship, Desire, and Grief.I’m thrilled to announce the release of Mediterranea Inferno on Xbox Series S|X, a mature visual novel set against the backdrop of the Italian south. My name is Lorenzo Redaelli, also known as Eyeguys, a multimedia artist from Milan, and I’ve made this game to offer a glimpse into Italy that goes beyond the usual clichés. Together with the team at Santa Ragione, we’ve worked to create a narrative that draws from personal experiences and cultural reflections, aiming to present a story that resonates with both its authenticity and depth.

M I screenshot

In the game, you join Claudio, Andrea, and Mida in their travels as they try to recover from the collective trauma of the 2020 pandemic. These three young men in their early 20s reconnect after two years of forced isolation, hoping to rekindle their friendship. As you pick their daily activities, you’ll discover their darkest fears and obsessions, and, as the reality of their failed expectations emerge, so does their hunger for revenge and retribution.

M I snapshot

Drawing on my personal experiences, the inspiration for Mediterranea Inferno comes from the summers I spent in Southern Italy, particularly in Martina Franca, Puglia. These visits, retracing my mother’s childhood, were filled with family traditions and rituals that shaped my view of the region. From spending time at my great-uncle’s countryside home to enjoying meals with Aunt Maria and participating in local festivities, these experiences offered a mix of comfort and monotony, highlighting the dual nature of familiar rituals. There’s a bittersweetness in being distanced from friends during summertime and an acute awareness of the passage of time, reflected in the aging eyes of our relatives year after year.

M I screensghot

In terms of art direction, the visual style of the game is influenced by Italian horror cinema, with references to directors like Dario Argento, Mario Bava, and Lucio Fulci, incorporating vivid neon colors and exaggerated dark themes. Additionally, the photography of Luigi Ghirri, particularly his work on Puglia, has been a significant inspiration, bringing a metaphysical quality to the game’s environments. This blend of horror elements, illustration, and photographic realism aims to create a nostalgic yet unsettling visual experience.

M I screenshot

Through the game’s characters, I tried to capture the concept of boredom as a status symbol, inspired by the films of Luca Guadagnino. They represent privileged Milanese youth, reflecting on the contradictions and challenges of life beyond bourgeois confines. This exploration is intertwined with Italy’s rich religious iconography, drawing from the influence of Pier Paolo Pasolini’s films and the omnipresence of Catholic imagery in Italian culture. The game incorporates these elements to delve into the complex relationship us Italians have with our cultural and religious heritage.

Mediterranea Inferno’s objective is to blend personal memories and critical reflections on our society. Through this game, I hope to contribute to the broader discourse on game narrative and continue the tradition of Italian creativity. I can’t wait for you to play it, Mediterranea Inferno is available on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S starting today!

Xbox Live

Mediterranea Inferno

Santa Ragione

What’s better than a sensual summer retreat in the South of Italy? Join Claudio, Andrea, and Mida in their travels as they try to recover from the collective trauma of the 2020 pandemic.

Three young men in their early 20s reconnect after two years of forced isolation, hoping to rekindle their friendship; an exceptional bond that made the trio truly special! A mythological force well beyond the sum of its parts! Or so they think…

As you pick their activities for the day, you’ll discover their darkest fears, their obsessions, and, as the reality of their failed expectations becomes apparent, their thirst for revenge and retribution.
A lazy afternoon by the pool, a lustful night at the club, or even a morbid visit to the local cemetery: you’ll decide how to spend this summer vacation, but wherever you go, something or someone will be waiting, offering an additional, forbidden trip through the arcane inner spaces of conscience.

Eat the Fruit of Mirages and fight for your endless summer!

The post The Critically Acclaimed Mediterranea Inferno is Now Available on Xbox Series S|X appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Coming to Xbox Game Pass: MLB The Show 24, Lightyear Frontier, Control Ultimate Edition, and More

Coming to Xbox Game Pass: MLB The Show 24, Lightyear Frontier, Control Ultimate Edition, and More

Batter up, friends! We’ve got the next round of games coming soon to your download and install queue. Whether you want to bend reality in Control, check out Bikini Bottom, or more, we have your bases covered… er… loaded! Let’s play ball!!

Available Today

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun (Cloud, Console, and PC)
Load up your Boltgun and unleash the awesome Space Marine arsenal to blast your way through an explosion of sprites, pixels and blood in a perfect blend of Warhammer 40,000, frenetic gameplay and the stylish visuals of ’90s retro shooters.

Coming Soon

PAW Patrol World (Cloud, Console, and PC) – March 7
Explore the world of “PAW Patrol” like never before, in a 3D action adventure where anything is PAWsible. Play as your favorite pups, drive their vehicles, and save the day by taking on fun rescues and missions either in single-player or with your family in couch co-op. It’s the ultimate PAW Patrol playtime!

SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom – Rehydrated (Cloud, Console, and PC) – March 12
Are you ready, kids? SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom is coming to Game Pass! Play as SpongeBob, Patrick, and Sandy in this faithful remake and thwart Plankton’s evil plan to take over Bikini Bottom. Battle Plankton’s army of rogue robots – this time with friends in multiplayer mode! Meet all your favorite Bikini Bottomites, voiced by their original voice actors and show Plankton that crime pays even less than Mr. Krabs.

Control Ultimate Edition (Cloud, Console, and PC) – March 13
From developer Remedy Entertainment, this supernatural third- person action-adventure will challenge you to master the combination of supernatural abilities, modifiable loadouts and reactive environments while fighting through a deep and unpredictable world. Control Ultimate Edition contains the main game and all previously released expansions (The Foundation and AWE).

No More Heroes 3 (Cloud, Console, and PC) – March 14
No More Heroes 3 follows the otaku assassin Travis Touchdown as he takes up his trusty beam katana once more and slashes his way through 10 of the deadliest fighters in the galaxy. Rack up combos with Travis’ beam katana and experience hack-and-slash action like never before!

Lightyear Frontier (Game Preview) (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S) – March 19
Available on day one with Game Pass: Start your interstellar homestead in this peaceful open-world farming adventure! Build your sustainable exofarm, grow alien crops, customize your mech, and explore a new world full of mystery with up to three friends!  

MLB The Show 24 (Cloud and Console) – March 19
Available on day one with Game Pass: Swing for the fences, experience game-deciding moments, become a legend and live out your baseball dreams in MLB The Show 24. Want to hit the field early? Game Pass members can unlock up to four days early access plus deluxe edition bonus content with the purchase of the Digital Deluxe Add-On Bundle. Learn more about how MLB The Show 24 continues to tell important stories from the Negro Leagues on Xbox Wire.

In Case You Missed It

Dead Island 2 (Cloud and Console) – Available now
A deadly virus is spreading across Los Angeles, turning its inhabitants into zombies. Bitten, infected, but more than just immune, uncover the truth behind the outbreak and discover who – or what – you are. Survive, evolve and save the world in this first-person zombie slaying adventure!

DLC / Game Updates

Age of Empires II:  Definitive Edition – Victors and Vanquished – March 14
Embark on a thrilling journey with Victors and Vanquished! In 19 epic scenarios, play as Ragnar Lothbrok, Oda Nobunaga, Charlemagne, and more. Your strategy and choices decide your fate: will you emerge as the ultimate victor, or fall as the vanquished? Secure your pre-order now and save 15% – and be prepared to conquer the battlefield! 

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Perks

Stumble Guys Retro Hot Dog Pack – Available now
Show off your wackiness as you race to the finish line with your Retro Hot Dog skin, Fire Emote, 250 Gems and 50 Stumble Tokens. This Perk content requires Stumble Guys to use (Free to Play).

Century: Age of Ashes – Forgotten Bay Pack – Available now
Brave the silence with the Forgotten Bay dragon, the Flaming Crude Cleaver axe and a 14-Day XP Booster. Requires Century: Age of Ashes to use (Free to Play).

Leaving March 15

The following games are leaving the Game Pass library soon. If you want to keep the fun going, be sure to use your membership discount to save up to 20% off your purchase!

  • Hardspace: Shipbreaker (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch Remastered (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • Shredders (Cloud, Console, and PC)

Keep tuned in at @XboxGamePass or @XboxGamePassPC for updates for when these games are available, and we’ll catch you here next time for more games coming to Game Pass!

The post Coming to Xbox Game Pass: MLB The Show 24, Lightyear Frontier, Control Ultimate Edition, and More appeared first on Xbox Wire.