Category: Xbox

Celebrating Safer Internet Day by Digging Deeper into AI with Minecraft Education

Celebrating Safer Internet Day by Digging Deeper into AI with Minecraft Education

  • Kim Kunes, VP Gaming Trust and Safety, Xbox

CyberSafe AI Hero Image

People are using AI more and more at home, at work, in school, and everywhere in between. According to the most recent Microsoft Global Online Safety Survey, there has been a global increase in active generative AI users. Our findings showed that in 2024, 51% of people are users or experimenters of generative AI compared to 38% in 2023. Generation Z continues to drive this adoption with 64% of young adults reporting ever using the technology. That means it’s up to us – especially those of us who work in technology and gaming – to make sure that young people have the support they need to navigate the world of AI safely while also fostering their curiosity and creativity in exploring these new technologies.

That’s why, for Safer Internet Day 2025, Minecraft Education is releasing a new installment in the CyberSafe series where players can explore the risks and opportunities of AI use through fun, game-based challenges. In each instance, players are tasked with articulating guidelines for how to use AI safely and responsibly. Welcome to CyberSafe AI: Dig Deeper, available free on the Minecraft Marketplace and in Minecraft Education!

Safely Exploring Real-world AI Issues

This DLC engages players by putting them in the role of a student tasked with helping to throw a fundraiser for their school. When the student sets out to investigate how AI technology could be used to help them mass produce the 3D-printed animals they’ve been learning to make in STEM lab, they encounter some common challenges and risks posed by using AI as a creative tool. They realize that its output might not be what they were looking for, and that they always need to check AI results against other trusted sources of information. While the player doesn’t engage with generative AI technology directly through the DLC, they will work through challenges and scenarios that simulate use of AI and learn about how to use it responsibly. Players will come to understand that, in the world outside their classroom, people might use AI both positively and negatively, building critical awareness of the roles that AI plays in their lives.

“Human inventiveness is at the center of AI. This is a great opportunity to empower educators, kids, and families with the knowledge and skills to use AI safely, maximizing human creativity and its positive impact in the world,” says Carlos Figueiredo, Director of Player Safety at Mojang Studios. “I’m excited to continue the momentum of our CyberSafe content, which has already reached tens of millions of players worldwide.”

Getting a Jump Start on AI Literacy and Skills

CyberSafe AI: Dig Deeper builds on the success of the CyberSafe DLC series, available free on the Minecraft Marketplace and in Minecraft Education, which has helped a generation of players learn key digital citizenship skills like password protection, data privacy, and ways to deal with online bullying. Last year’s launch of Good Game inspired millions of young Minecrafters to create in-game codes of conduct. Through a partnership between Xbox and Minecraft, the CyberSafe series has reached more than 80 million downloads since 2022.

With Dig Deeper, players will learn the critical questions to ask when working with AI or encountering AI-generated content and build an understanding of how to navigate these systems thoughtfully and safely. Ultimately, the experience aims to illustrate that for all their capabilities, AI systems require human intelligence, intervention, and oversight to work safely and constructively. Use the included Minecraft Family Cyber Toolkit for further guidance on navigating the CyberSafe DLC series.

If you’re looking for more resources and tips for family gaming, visit xbox.com/family. You can learn more about what Xbox offers for families, including information about privacy and access to privacy tools, the Xbox Family Settings app and Community Standards.

You can read more about Microsoft’s Global Online Survey Results and the efforts being taken to tackle abusive AI-generated content risks at Microsoft’s Safer Internet Day 2025 blog.   

The post Celebrating Safer Internet Day by Digging Deeper into AI with Minecraft Education appeared first on Xbox Wire.

The Sims at 25: How an Iconic Series Kept Up with the Game of Life

The Sims at 25: How an Iconic Series Kept Up with the Game of Life

25 years ago, The Sims made history with the first instalment of a legendary series that would go on to be one of the best-selling of all time. Few simulation games have enjoyed the success and longevity of The Sims – and the freedom and creativity to play with life however you want has afforded the series near-unrivalled appeal in the years since.

This week, Electronic Arts is celebrating this milestone and the history of the series in a big way, which includes a huge The Sims 4 Free Content Update containing new Create a Sim options, clothing, Build/Buy Items and much more. The festivities will also include the limited-time Blast From The Past Event, which lets players earn revamped versions of iconic items from the original The Sims game via in-game goals.

We had the opportunity to chat with Kevin Gibson, Production Director for The Sims at EA. Gibson has been working in production roles across the franchise since 2003, and has first-hand experience of how the series has evolved in that time. The studio is abuzz with excitement about the franchise’s birthday, and Gibson shares that digging deep into the series’ past to rediscover nostalgic highlights has been extremely rewarding.

“Our incredible players have shown us that no one does life like The Sims, and we wanted to celebrate this journey we have been on together,” Gibson says. “25 years ago there was a game with an idea that made big a splash at E3, and look where we are today! We’ve been part of multiple generations and touched millions of lives.

“We wouldn’t be here today without that, and we wanted to take a moment to pause and recognize all of our players – from those who were there at the E3 launch in 1999, to those that are brand new Simmers today enjoying The Sims 4 for the first time. All of the Simmers from all of the years and all of the different ways to play The Sims, are part of this 25-year journey, and this is our way of saying thank you.”

Blast From The Past

The Blast From The Past event is a particularly nostalgic look back at the early 2000s, bringing memorable clothing, furniture and decor from the early Sims games into The Sims 4. Among the items are some of my personal favourites, including two bold neon inflatable chairs, a three-tiered cake, and the fabulous light-up dancefloor where my young self also ordered many a Sim to boogie on down.

A lot has happened in the world in 25 years too – in the year 2000, The Sims created a simulation in the image of real life. Now, that original game serves as a time capsule to a past life. For example, in the first game, putting a wired phone inside your home was a necessity. In The Sims 4, Sims carry their own mobile phones, brimming with services that can be accessed anywhere, just like us.

“We’ve taken time to really explore the history of The Sims, going back to the roots and playing the original game, as well as exploring many of the previous game launches to remind ourselves of all the different ways people play with life,” Gibson tells us. “Everyone at the studio has had a different part of the franchise they cherish as meaningful to them, and the opportunity to share those moments with our players as part of the 25th birthday celebration has been a lot of fun.”

Preserving the Spirit of The Sims

The original The Sims was great fun, but often irreverent, difficult and downright wacky in the scenarios it presented. Your Sims could perish in freak accidents, their shrill screams piercing through your cheap PC speakers, all while another Sim is receiving a mysterious prank call about canoes. While The Sims has evolved to welcome a wider audience across two decades, its spirit remains largely unchanged, and this is something that the team has always wanted to preserve.

 “The Sims was hard. Your Sims died, a lot. However, a core concept of The Sims was that it was your story and the game provided the push back in a humorous way,” Gibson says, “The tradition of letting the player tell their story, while the game pokes at the edges with humor and challenge has been a key pillar of how we make decisions for the game.”

The Sims 4 continues in that original spirit of serving the needs of the player and the story they are telling, while using comedy to enhance the story in new and different ways – your Sims can die, they can be ghosts, they can romance the Grim Reaper… or even become a Reaper themselves.

Even at over a decade old, The Sims 4 continues to feel fresh, with a consistent roadmap of content packs and updates. The Sims as a franchise has always evolved over time, marking huge economical, societal and technological advancements inside its progression systems, and that is reflected in the recent Free Content Update.

“The Sims 4 team wanted to give our players something that felt more in line with today’s fashions and trends for clothing and decor,” Gibson adds. “We spent time doing a full review of our assets in the game, finding where there was room to draw inspiration from modern expectations of aesthetics and style that our players expect as part of the new content we wanted to add.”

“The Sims can draw from reality, fantasy and science fiction, romance, home decor, world culture, travel and so much more,” Gibson adds. “We’re always building onto this ever-growing toybox of options and experiences within The Sims. In addition, we have a large group of people who are all eager to share moments from their lived experiences and help bring authentic nuances to the game to help tell stories players are interested in telling.”

The Sims team has also kept a close eye on community requests and discussions over the years, and lots of additions that have been made to The Sims 4 directly reflect what the players are asking for, a demonstrable commitment to building a game for everyone.

“Our evolution has been fuelled constantly through listening to our players,” Gibson adds. “The Sims is about the player, the story they are trying to tell, the creative space they are trying to build within, and the expression they want to have within the game. We have evolved the most in the need to change and grow to meet our players expectations of this franchise and to reflect the world we all live in.

“From the beginning, we’ve always sought to immerse our player community in this different version of the world we know, where they can experiment and explore, and express themselves. Across all our games and spin-offs, this core commitment to creativity and imagination has always remained true, and underlying it all is an enthusiastic, endlessly inspiring community.”

The new The Sims 4 Free Content Update and Blast From The Past Event are available to play in The Sims 4 now. There are lots more Sims celebrations going on this week – be sure to visit the official website for more information. The Sims 4 base game is also free-to-play on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One.


The Sims™ 4

The Sims™ 4

Electronic Arts

☆☆☆☆☆
717
★★★★★

Get it now
Xbox One X Enhanced

Unleash your imagination and create a unique world of Sims that’s an expression of you! Download for free and customize every detail from Sims to homes, and much more. Choose how Sims look, act, and dress, then decide how they’ll live out each day. Design and build incredible homes for every family, then decorate with your favorite furnishings and décor. Travel to different neighborhoods where you can meet other Sims and learn about their lives. Discover beautiful locations with distinctive environments and go on spontaneous adventures. Manage the ups and downs of Sims’ everyday lives and see what happens when you play out scenarios from your own real life! Tell your stories your way while developing relationships, pursuing careers and life aspirations, and immersing yourself in this extraordinary game, where the possibilities are endless. Play with life!

Download for Free – The base game of The Sims™ 4 is free to download. Get a plethora of options for building homes, styling Sims, and customizing their personalities. Craft their life stories while exploring vibrant worlds and discovering more ways of being you all at no cost.

Create Unique Sims – A variety of Sims are yours to personalize, each with distinct appearances, dynamic personalities, and inspiring aspirations. Use powerful customization features to bring your imagination to life. Create yourself, your favorite celebrities, your fantasy, or your friends! Change your Sims’ clothing to reflect your mood, develop stories that deepen your world, and give their lives purpose with traits and aspirations.

Build the Perfect Home – Effortlessly build and design homes for your Sims in Build Mode. Construct the home of your – and their – dreams by planning its layout, choosing furnishings, and altering the landscape and terrain. You can even add a pool, basement, and garden, or rebuild with new ideas and designs!

Play with Life – Control every moment of your Sims’ lives from their relationships to their careers. Your choices shape every aspect of their lives from birth into adulthood. Along the way, develop your Sims’ skills, pursue original hobbies, take them on adventures, start new families, and much more.

Add New Experiences – Use the Gallery to find inspiration from a community of players just like you. Download and comment on your favorite Sims, homes, and designed rooms.

Get More with EA Play – EA Play* members can expand their career possibilities with The Sims™ 4 Get to Work Expansion Pack

*Conditions, limitations and exclusions apply. See tos.ea.com/legalapp/eaplay/US/en/PC/ for details. Conditions & restrictions apply. See ea.com/legal for details.

The post The Sims at 25: How an Iconic Series Kept Up with the Game of Life appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Next Week on Xbox: New Games for February 10 to 14

Avowed Screenshot

Next Week on Xbox: New Games for February 10 to 14

Welcome to Next Week on Xbox! In this weekly feature we cover all the games coming soon to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, the Xbox App on Windows PC, and Game Pass! Get more details on these upcoming games below and click their profiles for further info (release dates subject to change). Let’s jump in!


Quilts and Cats of Calico

Quilts and Cats of Calico

Monster Couch

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Quilts and Cats of Calico – February 11
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

A cozy board game in which the player’s main task is to make a quilt from patterned fabric scraps. By smartly combining the colors and patterns of the scraps, the player can not only score points for the completed design but also sew on buttons and attract adorable cats, who have their own preferences for bedding patterns.


Sid Meier's Civilization® VII

Sid Meier’s Civilization® VII

2K

☆☆☆☆☆
52
★★★★★

$69.99
Pre-order

Sid Meier’s Civilization VII – February 11
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

The award-winning strategy game franchise returns with a revolutionary new chapter. Sid Meier’s Civilization VII empowers you to build the greatest empire the world has ever known! In Civilization VII, your strategic decisions shape the unique cultural lineage of your evolving empire. Rule as one of many legendary leaders from throughout history and steer the course of your story by choosing a new civilization to represent your empire in each Age of human advancement. You can start playing today by picking up either the Civilization VII Deluxe or Civilization VII Founders Edition on the Microsoft Store for Xbox .


UNDYING

UNDYING

Skystone Games

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

$19.99
Pre-order

Undying – February 11
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Caught amid the zombie apocalypse and with time running out, Anling will stop at nothing to ensure her son, Cody, gets to safety. Enduring countless perils, including the zombie infection that’s beginning to take over her body, not to mention teaching Cody how to survive their harsh new reality.


Alpacapaca Dash 2

Alpacapaca Dash 2

Synnergy Circle Games

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Alpacapaca Dash 2 – February 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

After saving the Alpaca Goddess and vanquishing the eternal darkness, you now have to save the Alpaca World again! Fragments of darkness started appearing and it’s your job to destroy them and ensure peace will remain into the colorful Alpaca World.


Camping Simulator: The Squad

Camping Simulator: The Squad

CubeCube Sports LTD.

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Camping Simulator: The Squad – February 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Immerse yourself in the beauty and challenges of the great outdoors with Camping Simulator. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a test of survival skills, this game offers a dynamic camping experience tailored to your style.


Fall Asleep

Fall Asleep

Xitilon

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Fall Asleep – February 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Assist Marsi in awakening from her deep slumber by gathering five-star shards in this engaging platformer. Navigate through five distinct locations, each presenting unique adversaries and challenges. Traverse the Enchanted Forest, the depths of the Volcano, Sandy Island, Snowy Peaks, and the Darkest Dungeon. Acquire new abilities with every star fragment collected.


Penguin Flight

Penguin Flight

Afil Games

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Penguin Flight – February 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Get ready to flap, dash, and soar in Penguin Flight, a delightful 2D pixel art platformer that blends charm, challenge, and creativity! Join a little penguin with big dreams as he embarks on a journey to touch the skies, navigating through 40 meticulously designed levels brimming with fun mechanics, vibrant visuals, and heartwarming adventures.


Pyramids and Aliens: Escape Room

Pyramids and Aliens: Escape Room

mc2games

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★


$12.99

$11.69
Pre-order

Pyramids and Aliens: Escape Room – February 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Your former mentor has disappeared inside an ancient Egyptian pyramid. Will you be able to find him? Pyramids and Aliens is an escape room game that will test your skills as an archaeologist. Solve puzzles, find clues, and reveal the secrets of the pyramid. Spoiler: it was not built by humans!


Super Forklift 3000 (Xbox Series)

Super Forklift 3000 (Xbox Series)

Marcos Game Dev

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Super Forklift 3000 – February 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Super Forklift 3000 is an arcade space shooter with a twist: you drive a forklift that carries and shoots up to three boxes, each with unique effects. Defeat enemies and bosses while managing your different box types. Be careful not to run out of ammo!


Super Jagger Bomb 2: Go East
Xbox Play Anywhere

Super Jagger Bomb 2: Go East

Eastasiasoft Limited

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Super Jagger Bomb 2: Go East – February 12
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere

Run, jump, fly and dash your way across dozens of unique stages in 2.5D style as you dodge enemies and collect bombs as fast as you can. Complete levels without dying to gain extra lives and use bonus rounds to multiply your score. Collect coins, practice, earn flight licenses and even unlock new playable heroes!


Avowed Premium Edition
Xbox Play Anywhere

Avowed Premium Edition

Xbox Game Studios

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

$89.99
Pre-order

Avowed (Premium Edition Early Access) February 13
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Xbox Play Anywhere

Welcome to the Living Lands, a mysterious island filled with adventure and danger. Set in the fictional world of Eora that was first introduced to players in the Pillars of Eternity franchise, Avowed is a first-person fantasy RPG from the award-winning team at Obsidian Entertainment. Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass members can purchase the Avowed Premium Upgrade Addon to receive up to 5 days early access, two sets of premium skins, and access to the Avowed Digital Artbook & Original Soundtrack. Standard edition launches on February 18.


Recall: Empty Wishes

Recall: Empty Wishes

DANGEN Entertainment

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★


$14.99

$13.49
Pre-order

Recall: Empty Wishes – February 13

Recall: Empty Wishes is a psychological thriller set in Taiwan during the 2010s. Follow Yonny, a sister determined to uncover the truth behind the mysterious disappearance of her brother, Tommy. As she delves deeper, she confronts unsettling secrets, blurring the lines between reality and illusion.


METAL SUITS: Counter-attack

METAL SUITS: Counter-attack

Eggtart Inc

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Metal Suits: Counter-Attack – February 13
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

A side-scrolling run-and-gun action game set in the future. The main character, Kevin, who lost everything and was reborn as a cyborg, begins to take revenge on Golida, an alien who took everything from him.


Snezhinka

Snezhinka

PLAYISM

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Snezhinka – February 13

Sequel to Marfusha, the second entry in the series of high-tempo shooting games with simple controls. Play as Snezhinka, an employee of a private military company in a dystopian world depicted in beautiful 2.5D pixel art. Go to various different battlefields and defend your objectives from the enemy’s onslaught.


Afterlove EP

Afterlove EP

Fellow Traveller

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Afterlove EP – February 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Taking place in the vibrant city of Jakarta, capital of Indonesia, Afterlove EP is a blend of visual novel, narrative adventure and rhythm game from the creator of Coffee Talk and What Comes After.


Blood Hunting

Blood Hunting

Holcomb Entertainment LLC

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

$24.99
Pre-order

Blood Hunting – February 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Chase Jones lost his family at a young age and must piece together what happened to them. As he uncovers the truth, he realizes what actions he must take and those responsible for his family’s fate have started hunting him. Now he must survive long enough to discover the truth and locate the responsible party before they find him.


Bumblebee - Search for Happiness

Bumblebee – Search for Happiness

EpiXR Games

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

$9.99
Pre-order

Bumblebee – Search for Happiness – February 14

A story-driven 3D flight exploration game where you guide a small bee on its quest to find a new home. As the bee embarks on this journey, it discovers distant landscapes, encounters friendly and serene animals, and explores breathtaking yet mysterious habitats.


Chibi Ninja Shino-kun Treasure of Demon Tower

Chibi Ninja Shino-kun Treasure of Demon Tower

Ratalaika Games S.L.

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Chibi Ninja Shino-kun Treasure of Demon Tower – February 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

A game inspired by Japanese ninja games from the 80s and 90s. Chibi Ninja Shino-kun: Treasure of Demon Tower is a fast and smooth retro platformer in which you climb a giant tower while dodging enemies, traps and other obstacles. Use your wall jump, hookshot and ceiling running abilities to make it past the various enemies and discover the legendary treasure of Demon Tower!


Dead Dragons

Dead Dragons

KEMCO

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

$14.99
Pre-order

Dead Dragons – February 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

100 years ago, humans triumphed over dragons, bringing peace to the world. But whispers of their return ignite a thrilling tale! Take on the role of a brave protagonist, uncover the mystery behind a young girl tied to the dragons, and decide the fate of an entire world.


Deep, In the Forest

Deep, In the Forest

ChiliDog Interactive

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

$6.99
Pre-order

Deep, In the Forest – February 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Welcome to a world of strategic card-based RPG, where you must liberate the forest kingdom from the Mad King’s tyranny. You, once close to the royal family, are falsely accused of the princess’s disappearance. To clear your name and restore order, journey through a perilous forest to reach the royal castle. Along the way, collect powerful items and cards, and encounter unique forest inhabitants, some of whom are misled or coerced into hunting you.


Doggy Up!

Doggy Up!

Axyos Games

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

$6.99
Pre-order

Doggy Up! – February 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

A platformer game where you play as a German Shepherd named Ollie, trapped in his own dreams. Can you pass the main challenge and free Ollie from captivity? The game will delight you with pleasant graphics, diverse locations, the ability to improve character characteristics, and dynamic events in locations that will help you not to get bored.


Hole Theory Series X|S

Hole Theory Series X|S

Webnetic s. r. o.

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Hole Theory – February 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Dive into the addictive and satisfying world of Hole Theory! Control a growing black hole and consume everything in your path to clear each level. Strategically maneuver around obstacles, avoiding dangerous colored blocks that can end your run instantly.


REPLAY BOYS
Xbox Play Anywhere

REPLAY BOYS

Split Narrative Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Replay Boys – February 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Xbox Play Anywhere

Play as Hannah, video editor for up-and-coming boy band The Replay Boys. When their manager calls in sick right before their first big concert, Hannah is the only one who can fill in and save the day. Help the band through their arguments and uncover their fears and anxieties, while dealing with crazy fans, a cult, and time loops!


Stickman Odyssey

Stickman Odyssey

Gametry LLC

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Stickman Odyssey – February 14

Embark on an epic journey with the nimble and fearless stickman in Stickman Odyssey! This fast-paced action platformer takes you through stunning, otherworldly landscapes filled with perilous traps, towering platforms, and menacing foes.


Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered

Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered

Aspyr

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

$26.99
Pre-order

Tomb Raider IV – VI Remastered – February 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Her legacy lives on! Play the next series of Tomb Raider adventures in this remastered collection of the Darkness Trilogy with Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation, Tomb Raider: Chronicles, and Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness.


Unsolved Case: Above the Law CE Xbox

Unsolved Case: Above the Law CE Xbox

Legacy Games

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

Get it now

Unsolved Case: Above the Law CE Xbox – February 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

A powerful villain has no fear of the law. After the high-profile murder of the mayor, it becomes clear that anyone could be a target. Do not let him escape justice! There are tons of new cases to tackle in this installment of the Unsolved Case series. Track down evidence, speak to suspects, crack complex puzzles, and make choices that determine the outcomes… for better or for worse!


Witch of the Meta Loop

Witch of the Meta Loop

Happy Player

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★


$14.99

$11.99
Pre-order

Witch of the Meta Loop – February 14
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Step through the magic mirror, break the fourth wall, and uncover the real you! Explore the entire island with your trusted companions, crossing golden wheat fields and snowy plains, visiting the library, and climbing the magical tower. Join the island’s charming inhabitants to uncover the secrets of the isolated land and reveal the truth behind the Demon King!

The post Next Week on Xbox: New Games for February 10 to 14 appeared first on Xbox Wire.

How Candy Crush Solitaire Takes on a Classic Game With a Vibrant Twist

How Candy Crush Solitaire Takes on a Classic Game With a Vibrant Twist

Candy Crush Solitaire Hero Image

Candy Crush Saga is among the most popular games of the modern age. With hundreds of millions of players, it’s a game that combines relaxation with a compelling “just one more go” approach. You could say much the same thing about casual gaming classic, Microsoft Solitaire, the game that introduced many of us to the beloved solo card game when it was included on Windows PCs from 1990.

Perhaps it’s no wonder, then, that today sees the release of Candy Crush Solitaire for iOS and Android devices – it’s a combination of Candy Crush’s vibrant looks and beloved mechanics with Solitaire’s enduring appeal.

“We saw an opportunity to bring together two timeless gaming experiences, Candy Crush Saga and Solitaire, both of which offer a satisfying balance of relaxation and challenge,” King Executive Producer Marta Cortinas tells me. “Extensive research and player testing showed strong demand for a product that combines strategic card play with engaging visuals and creative mechanics. The goal was to create a fresh, immersive experience that retains the strategic depth of Solitaire while incorporating the vibrant and rewarding gameplay that Candy Crush Saga is known for​. The first step was identifying the right type of solitaire gameplay that would best align with the Candy Crush experience.”

Unlike the suit-matching solitaire you might be familiar with – known as Klondike – a key change here is that Candy Crush Solitaire bases itself on another variant, known as TriPeaks.

“TriPeaks Solitaire differs from Klondike in that it focuses more on clearing a board by playing cards in ascending or descending order, rather than building suits,” explains Cortinas. “This means players can focus on making strategic decisions without being restricted by suit or color. It was the right choice for Candy Crush Solitaire because it allows for a faster-paced, more intuitive gameplay experience that aligns with the rewarding, pick-up-and-play nature of the Candy Crush franchise​.

“Its mechanics provide a great blend of strategy and progression, similar to how players advance in Candy Crush levels. From there, we layered in the signature Candy Crush Saga elements, colorful boosters, engaging progression, and collectible rewards, ensuring that players would recognize the familiar sense of accomplishment and fun from our franchise​.”

Candy Crush Solitaire screenshot

For Candy Crush players, those elements will be immediately familiar. The Color Bomb and Lollipop Hammer boosters from Saga make appearances here to help you along, obstacles in your game will (of course) be candy-themed, and Candy Crush characters will make appearances along the way, taking you on an adventure outside of the Candy Kingdom for the first time.

Which brings us to another big change to Solitaire – progression. The original card game tends to be built for standalone rounds but, in classic Candy Crush style, each round of Candy Crush Solitaire is now part of a series of escalating levels.

“Progression in Candy Crush Solitaire is designed to feel just as rewarding as in other Candy Crush games,” says Cortinas. “Players advance by completing levels and unlocking postcards from various locations around the world, adding a collectible element to the game. Additionally, we’ve introduced the ‘Hold Slot’ mechanic, which allows players to strategically set aside a card for later use, adding another layer of progression and planning​. We have the same plan for Candy Crush Solitaire – as with our other live games – of adding new levels each week to help our players keep progressing through the game and always refining and tweaking those levels, to ensure we are hitting expectations when it comes to delivering the best quality content for our players.”

Candy Crush Solitaire screenshot

The team at King is committed not only to adding new levels, but tweaking the game based on player feedback, introducing new gameplay mechanics, and keeping things moving with seasonal events, challenges, and rewards. Solitaire might be a static game, but Candy Crush Solitaire certainly won’t be.

As the first new Candy Crush game since 2018, it’s clearly something King is very proud of, and excited to release. I ask why this game was chosen to continue the franchise’s lineage:

“We only launch a new game when we believe we have something truly special to offer,” enthuses Cortinas. “Our business is built on testing and learning, to ensure the experience we’re giving our players is the best we can deliver. The Solitaire genre has been growing, and our research showed strong interest from both Candy Crush players and Solitaire fans in a game that merges the best of both worlds. After extensive testing and refinement, we saw that Candy Crush Solitaire had the potential to be a meaningful and engaging addition to the franchise​.”

It’s all the more special that King is now a part of Microsoft, home of the version of Solitaire many played for the very first time. In some ways, this game is the continuation of two gaming lineages.

Candy Crush Solitaire is available today for iOS and Android devices.

The post How Candy Crush Solitaire Takes on a Classic Game With a Vibrant Twist appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Stellar Ghosts Settlers a Third Person Shooter that Sticks to the Basics

Summary

  • Complete the missions to get credits towards character stats upgrades.
  • Seven playable characters to upgrade.
  • Complete the missions to unlock Arena mode.

The wait is over: single player Sci Fi fantasy Third person shooter Stellar Ghosts Settlers ((SGS)), is out today on Xbox. Let’s jump in to some details on how to get the best out of your gameplay and stay alive!

Upon succeeding a mission, the player will receive credits that can be spent towards upgrading the player characters’ stats of his choice. Seven playable characters are available and each of them starts with their specific stats (Health, Stamina and Armor) and their own unique special ability (force shield, incineration invincibility, orb sidekick, regeneration, megablast and homing electro shots). Making the best use of those hard-earned credits is crucial to enhance your favourite playable characters so that it gets easier to complete the missions.

SGS screenshot

Make sure to get rid of as many enemies getting in your way as possible. It’s the best way to earn additional credits! So have no mercy! Blast everything that moves! The SGS will reward you for it! But watch your ammo!

Completing missions will also unlock the Arena Mode. This mode will provide countless hours of gameplay where the player will have to go through all the waves of enemies and try to beat the top ranked players on the leaderboards.

If you want to reach the highest ranks in the leaderboard, the best practice would be to use the weakest weapons first to beat a maximum of the weaker enemies in the early waves. As the player gets to the higher waves it will be useful to use stronger weapons since more enemies will attack or stronger enemies will rise. There is a set number of collectibles items (weapons, mechs, energy kits and health kits) in each arena, so you will have to collect them wisely if you want to make it to the highest ranks.

You have an hour to complete an arena, the faster you complete it, the more points you receive. So, you’ll have to be as accurate as possible to save ammunition and try to be as quick as possible to gain extra points thanks to those sharp shooting skills!

We have also hidden a secret object in each mission and arena. If you want to finish the game, you’ll have to find them all to complete that achievement.

SGS screenshot

You can only earn credits during Campaign mode. So, if you plan on upgrading all the playable characters, you’ll have to redo the missions. The way to go if you want to find all the secret items as well.

Playing the arenas will be a requirement if you plan on completing all the achievements in the game. And you’ll relax while blasting away all the alien creatures and the enemies of the settlers using all the arsenal of weapons available.

Making it to the top ranked players on the leaderboard will feel like a great achievement in itself as you’ll have to beat the score of some relentless pest control players! SGS is available today on Xbox!


Stellar Ghosts Settlers

Stellar Ghosts Settlers

PROTOFACTOR, Inc

☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★

$9.99
Get it now

Stellar Ghosts Settlers is a Sci Fi Fantasy 3rd person action shooter game that sticks to the basics and immerses you in a world full of original and powerful wildlife.

You are part of a group of settlers who decided to go away from the corrupt galactic Government’s yoke. The settlers decided to set their first colony on the recently discovered and uninhabited planet Prosopopia B-21, planet full of resources so that the colonists could thrive. Despite the hostile wildlife the settlers managed to set multiple bases across the planet. Unfortunately, it wasn’t that long until the galactic Government found out about that treason and decided to invade the planet in order to get their hands on all those new resources.

The post Stellar Ghosts Settlers a Third Person Shooter that Sticks to the Basics appeared first on Xbox Wire.

PGA TOUR 2K25: First Look – Find Out More About the New Demo

PGA TOUR 2K25: First Look – Find Out More About the New Demo

  • Brian Petzke, Digital Content Manager, 2K

PGA Tour 2K25 Demo Hero Image

2K Games and HB Studios invite you to get your hands on PGA TOUR 2K25: First Look, the free demo for the newest in the PGA TOUR 2K series. This is your first chance to experience some of the major improvements ahead of the February 21 launch date for the Deluxe and Legendary Editions (offering 7 days of early access ahead of the Standard version release date, February 28).

You can go download and play now – and rest assured that any progression made in the PGA TOUR 2K25: First Look demo will carry over into the full game (requires 2K Account and full game purchase on same platform).

The new demo will give you a taste of how PGA TOUR 2K25 captures the course experience like never before with stunning upgraded visuals, a new swing mechanic called EvoSwing, improved MyPlayer Progression Systems, and an all-new equipment progression system.

What to Expect in PGA TOUR 2K25: First Look

PGA Tour 2K25 Demo Screenshot

PGA TOUR 2K25: First Look is just a slice—no pun intended—of what you can expect in the full game. It features:

  • MyPlayer: Progression has been overhauled with a new Attributes System, improved Skill Trees, and all-new Equipment Progression. Experiment with different builds and create up to 3 MyPlayers in the demo.
  • The Back 9 at TPC Scottsdale: Enjoy one of the most recognizable courses on the PGA TOUR, home to the WM Phoenix Open. This popular course is a great first impression of PGA TOUR 2K25’s new visual fidelity.
  • Perfect Swing: Any player will tell you that there’s no better feeling than consistently hitting the fairways and greens like a champion. PGA TOUR 2K25 adds this new difficulty setting to give you the feeling of hitting that Perfect Swing with every swing. Switch your difficulty to Perfect Swing in the settings to reduce how much external factors, like wind direction and lie affect your ball trajectory.
  • EvoSwing: Swing mechanics have evolved! EvoSwing nails the feel of swinging a golf club in a way that no other title has. Whether your go-to is Swing Stick or 3-Click: a new era of golf has arrived!
PGA Tour 2K25 Demo Screenshot

In this demo, you’ll  be able to try out PGA TOUR 2K25’s MyPlayer creator, and check out improved graphics and gameplay systems. You’ll have to wait for the full game to get your hands on the MyCareer, multiplayer, and Course Designer modes. That said, being able to create your perfect golfer and then take them for a swing is the perfect entry point into PGA TOUR 2K25.

To help you create your ideal digital golfer in MyPlayer, base head models have been increased, a larger variety of skin tones has been added, the number and style of different hair options—including facial hair—has increased, and you can now customize height and body type.

PGA TOUR 2K25 has also added other improvements to MyPlayer that are more than just skin-deep. For each MyPlayer, you will choose an archetype. Each archetype has its own set of starting attributes that are reflective of a specific playstyle. As you play and progress, you will gain experience and Virtual Currency (VC) to upgrade your base attributes and associated skills.

Can’t decide on a particular archetype? You don’t have to! In PGA TOUR 2K25, you can have multiple MyPlayers all suited to a different style of play. You can create up to 3 MyPlayer builds in the First Look demo – experiment with different archetypes and progression paths and never feel locked into your first pick!

PGA Tour 2K25 Demo Screenshot

PGA TOUR 2K25 also introduces Equipment Progression, which you’ll get a glimpse of in First Look. Along with your MyPlayer, the equipment you choose to bring with you into each round also gains experience. This XP gives you the ability to upgrade equipment in-tune with your specific archetype, playstyle, and MyPlayer attributes. Any MyPlayers you create—and any experience you earn—will carry over into the full game!

To aid you in leveling your MyPlayer and equipment, PGA TOUR 2K25 includes an all-new Quest system. Head to “Quests & Profile” from the main menu to view available quests, or cycle over to the “Quests” tab from the pause menu. In the demo, you’ll get an introduction to Quests during training. In the full game, you will have quests and challenges that can be completed to earn different rewards on a daily, weekly, or seasonal basis.

PGA Tour 2K25 Demo Screenshot

Once you’ve played the PGA TOUR 2K25: First Look demo and decide to upgrade to the full game, the transition is quite seamless—as long as you log in with the same 2K Account and purchase on the same platform on which you played the demo. Upon booting the full game for the first time, PGA TOUR 2K25 will import any MyPlayers created in the First Look, along with any experience gained and rewards earned. You can then edit them further, or simply continue your journey into MyCareer or multiplayer—which includes cross-platform play and really fun, competitive Ranked Tours.

The PGA TOUR 2K25: First Look demo is available to play right now on Xbox Series X|S.

The post PGA TOUR 2K25: First Look – Find Out More About the New Demo appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Coming Soon to Game Pass: Avowed, Madden NFL 25, and More

Coming Soon to Game Pass: Avowed, Madden NFL 25, and More

  • Megan Spurr, Senior Community Lead, Xbox Game Pass

Welcome back, friends! Happy to be here with more news, games, and updates. Speaking of news, we had lots of it in the 2025 Developer_Direct – with a little “everything you see is coming to Game Pass” spice. Here’s what you missed!

So many games to look forward to, plus a few surprise “you can play them right now” messages. Now let’s get to even more games for Game Pass!

Available Today

Far Cry New Dawn (Cloud, Console, and PC) – February 4
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, Game Pass Standard

Dive into a transformed, vibrant, post-apocalyptic Hope County, Montana, 17 years after a global nuclear catastrophe. Lead the fight against the Highwaymen as they seek to take over the last remaining resources.

Coming Soon

Another Crab’s Treasure (Console) – February 5
Now with Game Pass Standard

A soulslike adventure set in a crumbling underwater world. As Kril the hermit crab, you’ll need to wear the trash around you as shells to withstand attacks from enemies many times your size. Embark on an epic treasure hunt to buy back your repossessed shell and discover the dark secrets behind the polluted ocean.

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes (Console) – February 5
Now with Game Pass Standard

Gather your allies for Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes, the grand JRPG adventure. Assemble your 6-party team from a cast of over a hundred heroes and shape your destiny in this lush, hand-crafted 2.5D world brimming with war, intrigue, and magic. Manage your town of vibrant characters, play delightful mini-games, and prepare for an unforgettable narrative of boundless charm.

Starfield (Xbox Series X|S) – February 5
Now with Game Pass Standard

Starfield is the first new universe in 25 years from Bethesda Game Studios, the award-winning creators of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Fallout 4. In this next generation role-playing game set amongst the stars, create any character you want and explore with unparalleled freedom as you embark on an epic journey to answer humanity’s greatest mystery.

Madden NFL 25 (Cloud, Console, and PC) EA Play – February 6
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass

Read the defense and drive downfield with precision and get unlimited access to Madden NFL 25, coming soon to The Play List. Members can dominate the gridiron with Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta), PC Game Pass or Game Pass Ultimate via EA Play. Plus, score a Supercharge Pack from February 6 to March 6.

Kingdom Two Crowns (Cloud and Console) – February 13
Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Standard

Making a return to the Game Pass library! In Kingdom Two Crowns, players must work in the brand-new solo or co-op campaign mode to build their kingdom and secure it from the threat of the Greed. Experience new technology, units, enemies, mounts, and secrets in the next evolution of the award-winning micro strategy franchise!

Avowed (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S) – February 18
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass

Available on day one! Welcome to the Living Lands, a mysterious island filled with adventure and danger. Set in the fictional world of Eora that was first introduced to players in the Pillars of Eternity franchise, Avowed is a first-person fantasy action RPG from the award-winning team at Obsidian Entertainment. Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass members can purchase the Avowed Premium Upgrade Addon to receive up to 5 days early access, two sets of premium skins, and access to the Avowed digital artbook & original soundtrack.

In Case You Missed It

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black (Cloud, Console, and PC) – Available now
Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass

The highly acclaimed and legendary game from 2008 returns graphically remastered! Ninja Gaiden 2 Black features the high-speed, ninja action of iconic hero Ryu Hayabusa and his deadly Dragon Sword. Embark on a global battle against formidable foes, engage in relentless combat, and play as additional characters Momiji, Ayana and Rachel. Learn more here on Xbox Wire.

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor Available on Xbox One and Cloud Gaming (Beta) via EA Play
Game Pass Ultimate

Stand against the darkness in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, winner of IGN’s Best Action Game of 2023 — now on The Play List! Continue Cal Kestis’ journey on Xbox One and with Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) with Game Pass Ultimate via EA Play.

DLC / Game Updates

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Season 02 – Available now
You are in the fight now, so watch your back in four new 6v6 Multiplayer maps, fan-favorite modes like Gun Game, as well as a new Multiplayer mode where players can earn unique buffs. In Zombies, players will experience a brand-new map, The Tomb, and search for the Sentinel Artifact. The hunt has never been more thrilling. Check out the Call of Duty blog to learn more.

No Man’s Sky Worlds Part II Update – Available now
The latest free update to No Man’s Sky, Worlds Part II introduces billions of new stars and planets (including epic and volatile gas giants, deep water oceans and new biomes), massive technology upgrades to lighting, terrain and water, and much much more. Learn more here on Xbox Wire.

Game Pass Ultimate Perks

There are more Perks to love coming your way in February. Keep checking the Game Pass section on your console, Xbox mobile app, or Xbox app on PC to find new in-game content, consumables, and offers included with your Game Pass Ultimate membership. Number and content of Perks vary by region, platform, and over time.

Stumble Guys: RIP Streamer Pack – Available now
Grab the RIP Streamer skin, wield the Ban Hammer emote, plus 250 gems and 50 tokens in this fun multiplayer knockout battle royale!

Leaving February 15

The following games are leaving the library soon, so be sure to show them some love before they go! Save up to 20% off your purchase with your membership to keep these games in your library.

  • A Little to the Left (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • Bloodstained Ritual of the Night (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • EA Sports UFC 3 (Console) EA Play
  • Indivisible (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • Merge and Blade (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • Return to Grace (Cloud, Console, and PC)
  • Tales of Arise (Cloud, Console, and PC)

We’re adding more games over time to the ‘Stream your own game’ collection for Game Pass Ultimate members. Go here to see the list of available cloud playable games to stream on supported devices if you own them.  

We’ll be back soon to check on your downloads for Avowed and more, so stay tuned to Game Pass, PC Game Pass, and Xbox on social in the meantime. Cheers!

The post Coming Soon to Game Pass: Avowed, Madden NFL 25, and More appeared first on Xbox Wire.