From Late Nights to Limelight: The Story of Go Mecha Ball

Discover the origins of Go Mecha Ball, a game born from late-night ideas during parental leave.

A unique game where a rolling ball transforms into a powerful mecha, capturing the internet’s attention.

From viral prototype to securing funding from Microsoft – a developer’s dream come true.

GMB -screenshot

Go Mecha Ball began with a critical look at classic top-down shooters during the reflective nights of my paternity leave. I questioned the traditional use of rolling merely for evasion. What if rolling could be offensive? What if an object, known for crashing into things, could also shoot? This line of thought led to the idea of a ball, an object synonymous with rolling and kinetic energy, transforming into a powerful mecha. This concept laid the foundation for a game that would uniquely blend action and strategy.

GMB -attack

I began developing this idea into a prototype, utilizing my new procedural animation system to ensure the transformation between ball and mecha was not just visually appealing but seamless – a crucial element of the game’s fun and engagement. The goal was to create something different: a game that was as enjoyable to watch as it was to play.

GMB -ball launching

After a brief pause due to parental cover and adjusting to a new job, I resumed tinkering with the prototype. To my surprise, it wasn’t long before Microsoft took notice of Go Mecha Ball. Their decision to support the project was transformative. It elevated my late-night prototype into a serious game development venture, bringing Go Mecha Ball closer to a wider audience.

GMB -playing field

Now, Go Mecha Ball is set to leave its mark in the gaming world. This game is a testament to the power of a good idea and what can be achieved when creativity meets opportunity. It’s more than just a game – it’s a journey from a simple yet innovative concept to an exhilarating adventure. Go Mecha Ball is ultimately a love letter to what I believe is most important in games: game feel.

Try your hand at this new approach to kinetic movement today on Xbox!

Xbox Live
Xbox Play Anywhere

Go Mecha Ball

Super Rare Games


90


$19.99

$17.99
PC Game Pass
Xbox Game Pass

Load up and roll out, in this twin stick shooter with roguelike progression! Blast your way through arcade-style levels, using pinball-style physics mixed with an arsenal of devastating weapons. Defeat waves of enemy bots, battle big bosses, and upgrade your mech between runs!

The post From Late Nights to Limelight: The Story of Go Mecha Ball appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Next Week on Xbox: New Games for January 29 to February 2

Next Week on Xbox Hero Image

Next Week on Xbox: New Games for January 29 to February 2

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


Xbox Live
Xbox Play Anywhere

Brotato

Seaven Studio

Brotato – January 30
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere

Brotato is a top-down arena shooter roguelite where you play a potato wielding up to 6 weapons at a time to fight off hordes of aliens. Choose from a variety of traits and items to create unique builds and survive until help arrives.


Xbox Live

Teppo and The Secret Ancient City

Totalconsole


$7.99

$6.39

Teppo and The Secret Ancient City – January 30

An exciting adventure where players take on the role of explorer Teppo, searching for the legendary stone fortress hidden in the Amazon jungle. Meeting the mysterious Tanaca Wanax, the last chief of the unknown tribe of elected allies, Ugha Lulala, players will discover the incredible and fantastic history of a highly evolved ancient civilization, superior to that of the Mayas and the Incas.


Xbox Live

Graveyard Girls

Penguin Pop Games LLC

Graveyard Girls – January 31
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

A Halloween-themed visual novel about complicated grief and overcoming hardships. Collect Elle’s “scribbles” to learn about her struggles, befriend a mysterious girl, and talk about death and loss.


Xbox Live

Miniland Adventure

RockGame S.A., Gameparic

Miniland Adventure – January 31
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Miniland Adventure is a game where you can do anything you want to! Of course, you will still need to eat something from time to time, but besides that, there are no restrictions! You start with a small patch of land, that with time you can expand by yourself with biome tiles which you receive every day. In no time, you will find yourself in a big and pretty house with a farm beside crafting new tools and exploring caves.


Xbox Live

NINJA KIDZ: TIME MASTERS

Selecta Play

Ninja Kidz: Time Masters – January 31
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

America’s most popular online ninja family’s first video game is here! Ninja Kidz Time Masters is a colorful action adventure for the whole family where you can play alone or together with friends. Rescue the three greatest martial arts masters kidnapped by Dr. Disaster.


Xbox Live

Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story

Riot Forge

Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story – January 31
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Dive headfirst into an immersive narrative set in the undiscovered reaches of the Freljord, where every snowy step brings you closer to the truth about Nunu and Willump’s past. Discover the unbreakable bond between boy and yeti as you traverse a land both beautiful and treacherous, making new allies (and enemies) on a journey of family, friendship, and magic.


Xbox Live

Speed Crew

Wild Fields

Speed Crew – January 31
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Get ready for a high-octane, cooperative party game experience in Speed Crew! Assemble your team of 1-4 players and take on the role of an elite pit crew tasked with fixing cars and beating the clock to secure victory in this fun and chaotic adventure.


Xbox Live

Turret Rampage

Eastasiasoft Limited

Turret Rampage – January 31
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Defend humanity from subterranean monsters as the last standing turret! Turret Rampage is a shoot ’em up game with tower defense elements. You are a defensive turret, the only unit that stands between the remnants of humanity and the fierce underground invaders.


Xbox Live

Knights of Braveland

Ellada Games


$19.99

$17.99
Xbox One X Enhanced

Knights of Braveland – February 1
Xbox One X Enhanced

Knights of Braveland is a cooperative beat ’em up action game with a generated story. You will hack, slash, and smash your way to victory. And with your friends it is much more fun. Smash your way to victory solo or in a team up to 4 knights in this infinite replayable action RPG in Braveland universe.


Xbox Live

GINSHA

PolarityFlow, Adrian Zingg


$17.99

$16.19

Ginsha – February 2
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

An atmospheric pixel art action-adventure platformer with special gravity shield and dash mechanics. Explore huge interconnected planets, filled with secrets, loot, obstacles, different enemy types and epic boss fights. Level up, equip and customize your Clone, craft companion drones, and enjoy ever evolving possibilities as you proceed to save your species.


Xbox Live

Adrian’s Tale

Badri Bebua

Adrian’s Tale – February 2

An action-adventure game where you control a little hero. You must improve your skills in order to move further through the plot, solve puzzles, fight enemies using your sword, as well as additional weapons that you can select in your inventory.


Xbox Live

Dr. Frank’s Build a Boyfriend

Ratalaika Games S.L.

Dr. Frank’s Build-A-Boyfriend – February 2
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Dominik seemed to be the perfect boyfriend: attentive, caring, and interested in Dr. Frank’s work. Three months into the rainbow-colored relationship, Dominik runs off with Dr. Frank’s lifelong research on resurrection to present at the annual prestigious Hindenberg University Conference. Not only is Dr. Frank going to one-up Dominik’s presentation by presenting the world’s first artificial life form, but Dr. Frank is going to make said life form the world’s hottest, most beautiful boyfriend. Dr. Frank’s Build-A-Boyfriend is a visual novel mixed with point-and-click adventure elements.


Xbox Live

Draw Rider Remake

17Studio LLC

Draw Rider Remake – February 2

Rewritten from the ground up to be bigger, better, and more beautiful in every way from its original. Classic 2D racing with fun physics, where your goal is to get to the finish line within the allotted time.


Xbox Live

Dreamland Solitaire

ChiliDog Interactive

$5.99

Dreamland Solitaire – February 2

Escape to a world of wonder as you enjoy a magical twist on classic Solitaire! Simply play one card up or one card down from the top card on your draw pile to clear cleverly designed puzzle boards. As you remove cards, you’ll slowly uncover hand-painted scenes of a gorgeous fantasy realm.


Xbox Live

Jujutsu Kaisen Cursed Clash Pre-Order

Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc.

$59.99

Jujustu Kaisen: Cursed Clash – February 2
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

For the first time ever, the highly acclaimed series from Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump, “Jujutsu Kaisen,” is expanding into the domain of console games. Aim to become the strongest together by taking advantage of the characteristics of each technique, aiming for a joint attack that is triggered by combining attacks, and working together in harmony to assess the battle situation.


Xbox Live

Mighty Aphid 2

Cascadia Games LLC

$4.99

Mighty Aphid 2 – February 2
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

After a two-year absence, Mighty Aphid returns to battle Lady Bug and her evil horde once again. This time, the villainess has created her own Mighty warriors to take on the pint-sized hero. Run, shoot, swim, dash, and fly. Rescue the innocent. Fight mighty bosses. Earn powerful upgrades.


Xbox Live
Xbox Play Anywhere

Persona 3 Reload

SEGA

$69.99

Persona 3 Reload – February 2
Game Pass / Xbox Play Anywhere

Step into the shoes of a transfer student thrust into an unexpected fate when entering the hour “hidden” between one day and the next. Awaken an incredible power and chase the mysteries of the Dark Hour, fight for your friends, and leave a mark on their memories forever. Persona 3 Reload is a captivating reimagining of the genre-defining RPG, reborn for the modern era.


Xbox Live

Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League

Warner Bros. Games


3

$69.99

Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League – February 2
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

A genre-defying third-person action shooter from the creators of the Batman: Arkham series, Rocksteady Studios. Join the ultimate band of misfits, the newly “recruited” members of Amanda Waller’s infamous Task Force X (aka the Suicide Squad), Harley Quinn, Deadshot, Captain Boomerang and King Shark, as they set out on an impossible mission to save the world: Kill the Justice League. Pre-order Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League Digital Deluxe Edition on the Microsoft Store and start playing January 30 – details here


The post Next Week on Xbox: New Games for January 29 to February 2 appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Xbox Insider Release Notes – Xbox App [2401.1001.9.0]

Hey Xbox Insiders! We are releasing a new Xbox App for Windows build to Xbox Insiders who are enrolled in the PC Gaming Insiders preview! Thank you all for being Xbox Insiders. Continue read to learn about fixes and known issues. Make sure that you update the Xbox app, and Gaming Services to ensure you get all of the fixes!

New Versions of PC Gaming prerelease products:

Xbox App version: 2401.1001.9.0

  • Available: 5:00 p.m. PT – January 25th, 2024    

Current versions of Windows Gaming prerelease products:

Game Bar version: 6.123.11012.0

  • Released: 5:00 p.m. PT – November 3rd, 2023

Xbox App Bug Fixes:

  • Fixed an issue that caused certain parts of a bundle not appearing correctly when trying to install a title
  • Fixed an issue where “last played” not updating properly on game pages
  • Fixed an issue where earned achievements are sometimes not properly appearing in notifications
  • Fixed an issue where “What’s your next game?” improperly shows the results once you complete the quiz
  • Fixed various UI and font issues

How to Get Xbox Insider Support

Don’t forget! If you encounter any issues, you can leave feedback by navigating to the feedback option on your profile menu.

You can also provide feedback, as well as interact with the community, on the Xbox Insiders Subreddit. Please be as specific as possible when providing feedback.

When posting to the subreddit, please look through most recent posts to see if your issue has already been posted or addressed. We always recommend adding to threads with the same issue before posting a brand new one. This helps us support you the best we can!

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

Thank you to everyone who participates in the Xbox Insider Program! Your feedback helps us continue to build a great gaming experience in the Xbox app on PC. 

The post Xbox Insider Release Notes – Xbox App [2401.1001.9.0] appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Xbox Insider Release Notes – Delta (2402.240122-2000)

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

It’s important we note that some updates made in 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_2402ZN25398.3443.240122-2000
  • Available: 4 p.m. PT – January 25, 2024
  • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – January 26, 2024

New Features and Experiences

We have exciting news! Delta users can expect something new coming to their Xbox Update Preview.

Settings – Access Restrictions

We have updated the Access restrictions page in Settings by moving the existing options under a new menu for Access restrictions options. Additionally, we have added new options to allow use of the Edge web browser, setting Home console, and to delete profiles on sign out. To view these new options, navigate to Settings > System > Access restrictions.

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:

Installation

  • Various fixes to further improve unexpected issues when installing or updating 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

  • We have received reports of users experiencing intermittent issues with audio across the dashboard, games, and apps. If you have experienced issues, be sure you have the latest firmware updates for your TV and other equipment. If you’re unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance.
    • Note: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware updates, please submit feedback via Report a Problem immediately with the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”. Be sure to include as much information as possible:
      • When did the issue start?
      • Did you lose audio just in the game/app or system audio as well?
      • Does changing the audio format resolve the issue? If yes, what was the format before and after?
      • Does rebooting resolve the issue?
      • What does your setup include? Equipment, layout, etc.
      • And any additional information you can provide to reproduce the problem.

Networking

  • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to their network as expected on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.

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 – Delta (2402.240122-2000) appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Free Play Days – WWE 2k23, Phantom Abyss and MX vs ATV Legends

Experience the thrill of wrestling, navigate through treacherous temples, and race to the finish line with Free Play Days! WWE 2k23, Phantom Abyss and MX vs ATV Legends are available this weekend for Xbox Game Pass Core and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members to play from Thursday January 25 at 12:01 a.m. PDT until Sunday, January 28 at 11:59 p.m. PDT.  

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

How To Start Playing


Find and install the games on each of the individual game details page on Xbox.com. Clicking through will send you to the Microsoft Store, where you must be signed in to see the option to install with your Xbox Game Pass Core or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership. To download on console, click on the Subscriptions tab in the Xbox Store and navigate down to the Free Play Days collection on your Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S.


Keep The Fun Going


Purchase the game and other editions at a limited time discount and continue playing while keeping your Gamerscore and achievements earned during the event! Please note that discounts, percentages, and title availability may vary by title and region.


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


Xbox Live

WWE 2K23 for Xbox Series X|S

2K


278

WWE 2k23 
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
Become a WWE Legend in WWE 2K23 during Xbox’s Free Play weekend! As the highest rated game in WWE 2K franchise history, the ultimate wrestling simulation takes you behind the scenes and into the action to experience firsthand what it’s like to compete on the biggest stages in sports entertainment. 

WWE 2K23 features a bevy of engaging and immersive modes; ascend from a promising prospect to a WWE Superstar in MyRISE, recreate the greatest matches of John Cena’s career in 2K Showcase, call the shots as a general manager in MyGM, take complete control of your favorite WWE Superstars in Universe mode, and collect WWE Superstars and Legends to assemble a dream team in MyFACTION. 

All Xbox Live Gold and Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can take advantage of even stronger savings starting January 9 and ending January 30 with a special 50% discount on the Season Pass, featuring five DLC packs with over 20 Superstars and Legends! Enjoy the latest iteration of the WWE 2K franchise like never before and explore all of WWE 2K23’s endlessly fun modes—so you can prepare for the arrival of WWE 2K24

In case you didn’t hear, WWE 2K24 has officially been announced and you can pre-order it today! Secure your copy of the WWE 2K24 and receive a digital-only version of WWE 2K23, so you can keep the party going even after the Xbox Free Play weekend is over! 


Xbox Live

Phantom Abyss

Devolver Digital


161


$24.99

$18.74
Xbox Game Pass
Free Trial

Phantom Abyss 
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
Phantom Abyss is a massive asynchronous multiplayer game that casts players into procedurally generated temples and tasks them with retrieving the sacred relics hidden within deadly chambers. Intrepid adventurers will dodge scores of hidden traps, leap treacherous chasms, and flee relentless guardians through branching paths until one of the relics are claimed or the devices of death overwhelm them. Be warned, you only get one attempt at each temple and failure means you will never see that temple again.  


Xbox Live

Make Way

Secret Mode


11

$14.99

MX vs ATV Legends 
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S, Smart Delivery
Race your way to victory on bikes, ATVs and UTVs in MX vs ATV Legends! Featuring massive new open environments, plus a career mode that lets you experience all the risks and rewards of becoming a world-famous professional rider. Become an off-road racing legend in your own right! Your time is now! 

Don’t miss out on these exciting Free Play Days for Xbox Game Pass Core and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members! Learn more about Free Play Days here and stay tuned to Xbox Wire to find out about future Free Play Days and all the latest Xbox gaming news.  


Don’t miss out on these exciting Free Play Days for Xbox Game Pass Core and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members! Learn more about Free Play Days here and stay tuned to Xbox Wire to find out about future Free Play Days and all the latest Xbox gaming news.

The post Free Play Days – WWE 2k23, Phantom Abyss and MX vs ATV Legends appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Xbox Insider Release Notes – Alpha (2402.240122-2000)

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

It’s important we note that some updates made in 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_2402ZN25398.3443.240122-2000
  • Available: 2 p.m. PT – January 24, 2024
  • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – January 25, 2024

New Features and Experiences

We have exciting news! Alpha users can expect something new coming to their Xbox Update Preview.

Settings – Access Restrictions

We have updated the Access restrictions page in Settings by moving the existing options under a new menu for Access restrictions options. Additionally, we have added new options to allow use of the Edge web browser, setting Home console, and to delete profiles on sign out. To view these new options, navigate to Settings > System > Access restrictions.

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:

Installation

  • Various fixes to further improve unexpected issues when installing or updating 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

  • We have received reports of users experiencing intermittent issues with audio across the dashboard, games, and apps. If you have experienced issues, be sure you have the latest firmware updates for your TV and other equipment. If you’re unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance.
    • Note: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware updates, please submit feedback via Report a Problem immediately with the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”. Be sure to include as much information as possible:
      • When did the issue start?
      • Did you lose audio just in the game/app or system audio as well?
      • Does changing the audio format resolve the issue? If yes, what was the format before and after?
      • Does rebooting resolve the issue?
      • What does your setup include? Equipment, layout, etc.
      • And any additional information you can provide to reproduce the problem.

Networking

  • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to their network as expected on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.

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 (2402.240122-2000) appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Dynamic and Vibrant Shooter Project Downfall is Coming to Xbox Consoles

Hey there, Xbox fans!

It’s so good to see you in this New Year of 2024! I hope you spent the holiday season in a good atmosphere and your inner batteries are fully charged. If so, buckle up and get ready, because the ride through great, new launches is about to begin. I’m super happy to briefly present to you very interesting project that is going to be released on Xbox consoles next month. Wanna hear one-sentence pitch? Here it goes: A stylized, cyberpunk shooter for fans of Hotline Miami and “John Wick”. This is – Project Downfall!

PD gunfire

Rise and Fall

Welcome to a dystopian future, traveler. You’ve just arrived at the Crimson Tide, a symbol of unity between the European Union and the emerging superpower, The Novorussian Federation.

You must know that in this world political parties are a thing of the past, having been replaced by aggressive corporations. Citizens vote with their wallets, and drugs they take enforce obedience.

This is the story of one, ordinary Lakk district resident whose routine day suddenly turns into a complicated game of power and influence in this rotten world. In the reality where corporate influences blurs the lines between what’s right and wrong…

Project Downfall, made by MGP Studios and Solid9 Studio is a unique and dynamic game that successfully blends shooting and action with bits of strategy and tactical thinking, offering players an exciting journey through a dystopian world. You must be prepared to immerse yourself in this hostile world, where your combat skills will be put to the ultimate test. Project Downfall offers a diverse array of weapons and cool skills (eg. superkicks, slammers, adrenaline slides and more!), and each of them is unique, allowing players to customize their playstyle and approach each mission with creativity. Whether you prefer long-range precision, melee combat or tactical tricks with use of gadgets, surely there is something for you to have fun.

PD screenshot

However, it must be said that an equally important aspect of the game, and in fact, one of its main features, is the emphasis on non-linear progression. It may seem to be quite a strange design decision, in a project of this caliber, but if you were expecting just a simple, dynamic (let’s say) boomer-shooter, you are mistaken. Depending on the decisions you make in the game, and other factors such as the mental state of the main character, you can experience completely different gameplay sequences as well as entire, previously hidden levels. And all of them can lead you to new story elements and, as a result, to different endings. Thus, each approach to the game can offer a new experience, and you can still discover something fresh in your next playthroughs. Cool!

Dirty Neon Signs and Their Flashing Lights

Project Downfall isn’t just awesome gameplay; it’s a visual journey into surrealism, combining the rough aesthetics of such works as “Falling Down”with Michael Douglas, with the frenetic action of the ‘Hardcore Henry” and “John Wick” movies. Imagine this: the neon-soaked streets of “Crimson Tide” pulsing with cyberpunk energy, where every alley hides secrets and every corner creates chaos from Hotline Miami in a moment’s notice.

Trippy, cyberpunk visuals work in tandem with a dynamic and electrifying soundtrack which adapts to what’s going on-screen and gives a kick and propels you to play. Each track has been carefully crafted to enhance the immersive journey through Crimson Tide, making the game not only a visual and interactive feast, but also a symphony of electronic vibrations that will stay with you even after you put down the controller.

PD screenshot

Release Date and Availability

Project Downfall is set to conquer the Xbox console  world on February 2, 2024. Save the date in your calendar, but also don’t you worry, I will be happy to remind you about it in the next article, which will include a short interview with the game developers! Stop by our social media if you wanna know more about the project and see you soon.

PD FPS POV
Xbox Live

Project Downfall

©RedDeerGames

Find yourself in a future city full of gangs, mafias, and other shady people. Become a merciless assassin who works during the day, and gets into a killing frenzy at night. Hop in the car, select a destination, and explore every corner of Crimson Tide.

If you want to feel an adrenaline rush, you can explore the city on foot but watch your back and don’t ask too many questions.

EVERYTHING CAN BE A WEAPON!
Search your surroundings for anything that looks deadly and use it to protect yourself. Throw bottles, knives, or even guns at the enemies.

Nothing around you?

Take some pills and breach doors to stun opponents, or just disarm them by kicking their faces. They will be pleased to drop a weapon for you then. You should definitely find and lick a frog – you will love it.

PLAN YOUR ATTACK
It’s your decision how to enter combat and how to end it. Find your first victim, and go with the flow. Try every possibility and find the best way to get the highest score.

Kick an enemy while sliding to pick his weapon mid-air and land a headshot to defeat him. Creativity is the key to success.

CREATE YOUR OWN STORY
There are 12 available endings waiting for you to be discovered. Each one takes around 4 hours for hardcore players to complete. The path you choose will never be completely the same next time. Also, check and search for collectibles that are hidden all over the city.

The post Dynamic and Vibrant Shooter Project Downfall is Coming to Xbox Consoles appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Design an Original Starfield Spacesuit and it Could Be Yours for Real

Starfield is the first new universe in over 25 years from the award-winning creators behind Skyrim and Fallout 4, Bethesda Game Studios. Gamers from around the world were excited to jump into this interstellar universe rich with adventure, peril, and excitement.  

But before anyone hops into space, they need something critical: a spacesuit.   

So, Xbox has partnered up with the European Space Agency (ESA) to give Starfield fans  around the world a chance to win the spacesuit of their dreams, in real life, in addition to other incredible Xbox prizes. This is a physical, wearable, one-of-a-kind garment, fabricated for the most intrepid explorers.     

Whether using a provided template as a base, or pushing their imagination to the limit with any creative format of their choice, fans will be asked to provide both a visual illustration of the suit from all sides—hand-drawn, 3D-rendered, or however their vision sees fit—as well as a description of the inspiration of the suit. More specifically, Xbox, Bethesda and the ESA want to know what you would wear in outer space – how would your spacesuit reflect your personal style, individuality and vision for space travel?

After submitting suits through the campaign webpage, the most creative option—the one that truly gives weight to the phrase “out-of-this-world individual style”—will win a full replica of their design, complete with an authentic ESA patch. The contest opens today and runs until 8pm Pacific Time on February 24, 2024, so make sure to hit that spacesuit workbench soon. After that, the winning suit will enter a two-month intensive fabrication process on the path to becoming reality. To see the full rules, visit here.

Fantastic role-playing games are all about player expression, and this contest allows fans to experience that in a completely different way. Our stories are unique to us, so what we wear while we travel through those stories should be too. So, submit your own design, then while you wait, we suggest downloading and exploring the worlds of Starfield with Xbox Game Pass.   

About Starfield  

Starfield is the first new universe in over 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.  Experience it for yourself on Xbox Game Pass.   

The post Design an Original Starfield Spacesuit and it Could Be Yours for Real appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Xbox Insider Release Notes – Delta (2402.240118-2200)

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

It’s important we note that some updates made in 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_2402ZN25398.3432.240118-2200
  • Available: 4 p.m. PT – January 23, 2024
  • Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – January 24, 2024

New Features and Experiences

We have exciting news! Delta users can expect something new coming to their Xbox Update Preview.

My Games & Apps – Improved Filtering and Sorting

We’ve added some new filters and sorts to My Games & Apps to help you find exactly what you’re looking for! You can now filter games by Accessibility Options, Supported Languages, and Technical Capabilities. Additionally, subscription tabs have been updated to sort by recently added making it easier to see what’s new. Of course, you can always change the sorting if you prefer something else. Just head to My Games & Apps then Full library where you can find all the new filtering and sorting options.

Xbox Wireless Controller – Thumbstick Calibration

For users in the US who have independently replaced the circuit board on their Xbox Wireless Controller and Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 or users in all regions experiencing minor thumbstick issues, we now offer a user-guided self-calibration tool for thumbsticks through the Xbox Accessories App.

  • Note: The support article linked at the end of the experience is currently unavailable. This will be available in the future.

Experience Changes

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

Capture & Share

  • Screenshots captured on Xbox Series S consoles will now have a maximum resolution of 1080p, matching the maximum resolution for game clips.

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:

Home

  • Fixes to improve unexpected errors loading Home during sign in.

Installation

  • Various fixes to improve unexpected issues when installing or updating various titles.

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

  • We have received reports of users experiencing intermittent issues with audio across the dashboard, games, and apps. If you have experienced issues, be sure you have the latest firmware updates for your TV and other equipment. If you’re unsure, you may need to contact the manufacturer for assistance.
    • Note: If you continue to experience issues after applying the latest firmware updates, please submit feedback via Report a Problem immediately with the “Reproduce with advanced diagnostics” option, then select the category “Console experiences” and “Console Audio Output Issues”. Be sure to include as much information as possible:
      • When did the issue start?
      • Did you lose audio just in the game/app or system audio as well?
      • Does changing the audio format resolve the issue? If yes, what was the format before and after?
      • Does rebooting resolve the issue?
      • What does your setup include? Equipment, layout, etc.
      • And any additional information you can provide to reproduce the problem.

Networking

  • We are investigating reports of an issue where the console may not connect to their network as expected on boot. If you experience this, be sure to report the issue via Report a Problem as soon as you’re able.

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 – Delta (2402.240118-2200) appeared first on Xbox Wire.