It's awesome that they will join Game Pass at launch and I really appreciate Sega's games being Play Anywhere. They are big games, but definitely worth playing. I enjoyed them (3, 4, 5) much more than I expected and, more importantly, from start to finish.
@Weebleman Yeah but we need a good and funny writer like Leigh Loveday and not modern nonsense. I'd also trust Rare & Playtonic. Sea of Thieves is really beautiful, so I'd like to see them making a Banjo game on Unreal Engine.
Okay, one more time, I love those buttons and I've never owned an Xbox 360. The console itself is the one with the disc drive, isn't that interesting? I'd get this, but I already own a Series X.
The iconic “X” lights up in green, a nod to the original XBOX start up,.
@Cheesyman You replied yourself. Since Xbox One, a console released in 2013, first-party games are Play Anywhere. Play Anywhere games are playable on console and PC.
@kuu_nousee She might be the only person that have ever been at Xbox that can convince Nadella of anything favouring Xbox, like ditching Copilot and such.
@Skinny-Pete Definitely. Not only because they sell fewer consoles than Sony, but because they need a bigger market as the second greatest publisher, so merging console and PC is what they will be focusing on, but let's not forget they started that idea on Xbox One with Play Anywhere and free cloud saves. Now, with an overhauled store for console and PC and the same game builds for Helix and Windows devices, automatically optimised on the former, they are concluding that journey.
There's always money involved in everything we do, to live, even. It doesn't mean that you can't be genuine and want to do your best at your job. I don't mean giving consoles away, in between.
Now we know why there is a stock problem and there aren't Xbox consoles on the shelves for sale! Sorry to repeat myself, but I love that controller buttons despite never having an Xbox 360.
This is getting more interesting by the minute. Global hits like like Call of Duty and Minecraft will be multiplatform because they were massive IPs before Microsoft acquired them. The extra sales that Xbox needs are on PC. The next console will run the same store as Windows computers and handhelds. Most of the Xbox ports haven't been that successful on PS5, including Gear of War. Bringing them to a walled ecosystem that actively hinders the Xbox ecosystem might not be the brightest idea. If Xbox got PS ports, it would be completely different. Then, you have to consider that the top-requested feature by Xbox (not Twitter) users is exclusives and that Asha has already committed to reassess exclusivity. Of course it wasn't too late. Xbox had no obligations besides the Call of Duty 10-year contract. Be positive, I'm sure that Gear of War E-Day will be a success on Xbox and PC!
I haven't watched any of these this year, so thanks Pure Xbox for the articles, but I want to watch this one tomorrow if I can. I won't watch the E-Day Direct because I consider that spoiling a game I'm getting anyway. Same for Fable.
I'm always interested in newer Xbox controllers, although I just ordered the Rare 40th Anniversary Edition after suffering Gamesir's d-pad for some months. Unfortunately, my Elite controllers series 1 and 2 died and the Series X controller is quite worn after (almost) six years.
The news about Sony fans crying because Capcom and Square Enix no longer reveal their games at Sony's shows with PS logos faking third-party exclusivity have left me perplexed, to say the least.
Microsoft really needs to manufacture more consoles. They're sold out almost everywhere around the world, so I'm surprised that they're selling relatively well.
The most fascinating story in the whole series and one of my favourite games along Resident Evil (2002). These classic Resident Evil games are so good and Capcom RE-makes them well.
@NeoRatt Nintendo used Mii Maker for the Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom NPC Frankenstein-characters. Just a funny note to add to your comment.
@RegnumSolipsi I understand what you mean and although I haven't been on Xbox as long as you, I completely agree! I love Gears of War, but I've also complained about all the IPs that seem abandoned and criticised the cancellation of Perfect Dark 3 which could have been finished by Crystal Dynamics, who were working on it anyway, if The Initiative was the mess everybody says and that I believe it was.
I think that Xbox has a solid yearly output. The remake of Halo and the reboot of Gears of War is because they want to boost those IPs, but there are so many games that are part of their history, that it's a shame most of them are not present. We got Killer Instinct, Battletoads and now Fable and I'm happy about it, but the last Banjo game was on Xbox 360 and that's ridiculous because it's one of the most beloved video game characters. Same problem with incredible franchises like Viva Piñata, Conker, Kameo and super fun ideas like Jet Force Gemini and Grabbed by the Ghoulies, plus all the others you mentioned and that I don't know that well. So yeah, Forza Horizon works well and we all know that Halo and Gears of War are iconic, but Xbox is much, much more than that, same as Nintendo is (or should be) more than Mario and Zelda. I really understand and share your disappointment in that sense.
@MaxC It took me 12 years more, but now I'm so happy about my Rare collection on Xbox and all the other games and features of the ecosystem. I have only said positive things about Grabbed by the Ghoulies here and on NL! Wonderful art style, sound, theme and gameplay, and a joy to play in HD at 60fps. Rare's games are "gamey" and so much fun.
This is more important than it seems. Nadella's love is AI and he's not particularly concerned about what gamers want on their Xbox. Asha can do with Xbox whatever she wants as long as she can prove it will yield long-term benefits. That includes the exclusivity of games besides the biggest IPs like Call of Duty and Minecraft and other major decisions. This will be a very challenging but interesting role.
@RegnumSolipsi It's not that easy to make tons of AAA games every year for any publisher, but if Forza Horizon 6, Gears of War E-Day and a Halo remake with Fable 4 coming early next year plus the titles I'm forgetting is not enough for one year, I don't know how to classify Sony's output this generation, honestly. They are basing their business on paid upgrades, third parties commissions and third-party timed exclusives at this point, which is completely fine, I guess, as long as it works for them. Not always doing better means greater success! I compare the two because they are supposed to be the big console publishers along Nintendo, that also hasn't done anything really great on Switch 2, in my opinion.
@deadmaker If things go as I expect, Xbox Rog Ally X will run all Series, Xbox One and backwards compatible games when Helix comes in the same way as Helix will do, in a "perfect" Xbox Mode. It won't be emulation, but "translation", similar to what they did on Xbox One with Xbox 360 (Power PC) and Xbox (x86) games.
@MaxC That's right, I joined Xbox because of Rare Replay and it became my main platform soon after. My fingers are crossed as well and wishing the same. 🤞
@MaxC Thank you and a pleasure to meet another Rare fan!
Spoiler: I have watched a lot of video reviews and just ordered it.
I saw some complaining about the rectangular shape and saying it's for small people. I have big hands, long fingers and wide shoulders. For me, the perfect shape and size ever is the Xbox Elite Series 1, but the newer Xbox controllers are smaller. They are all trapezoidal, but when I hold the newer ones, there's a gap between my hands and the sides, because I don't want my fingers to be so close to each other, so I don't think the trapezoidal shape is better for all guys because size also matters. I also have the Mobapad M6 HD (for Switch) which are quite straight on the sides and I love them, although they are more separated in handheld mode. I'm intrigued about how the shape and size of the Rare 40th Anniversary controller will feel.
The are some shortcomings like no hair triggers or the additional bumpers, but that doesn't bother me. The sticks and triggers are hall effect and that's also important. I thought the 2.4G wireless would be laggy, but the tests they do show it's perfectly fine, just not as good as the most competitive and wired controllers. I think that the dock is nice and convenient. I even have a Brook adapter for Switch, so I could connect another cable to the controller itself if I wanted to play Switch on the TV.
The reviewers that mentioned the d-pad only said positive things and, to be honest, that, along the hall effect and the better quality overall is what sold me the controller, because Gamesir d-pads are awful, hard and unresponsive. However, I also consider the official Series X|S d-pad one of the best ever. I hope that this softer d-pad feels right to me. I'm curious about the front buttons, they are not mechanical but membrane, but the reviewers say they're very good-quality. What do you think about them?
She's basically saying that, as the second greatest publisher, Call of Duty along other massive IPs like Minecraft will stay multiplatform, and that they need to evaluate what games ("content") become exclusive, because "a platform needs exclusives".
They could be considering keeping games off other platforms, including Steam. They should overhaul and promote their own console-PC store and give it something to compete (not defeat) with Steam. If they want to protect their platform, they need to make the most of what they've got.
Selling Xbox ports on Steam and PS5 has been a mixed bag, it's short-term money at best. It hasn't paid off because still Sony pays third parties to skip Xbox at launch, hasn't attracted new platform users and there are no other Sony games on Xbox besides Helldivers II. All of this is bad in the long term.
Xbox One and Series X|S are liked and supported by most publishers. We got tons of Xbox One X upgrades, more than PS4 Pro, and popular Japanese IPs joined Series X|S for the first time. They have the greatest first-party software output. All they need to do is make their platform appealing on console and PC so more third parties join their storefront on day one, being able to remain relevant in both the console and PC space.
Xbox can't release everything everywhere and expect their platform to grow in the super-competitive PC market, while Playstation remains the popular and casual home console and still makes efforts to hinder Xbox.
@Damo Hey, you didn't say anything about the d-pad. I have been using GameSir G7 HE Wired Xbox Controller but I really hate the hard and unresponsive d-pad. I've watched some videos saying that this 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Controller for Xbox - Rare 40th Anniversary Edition has one of the best d-pads ever, so I'm about to buy it.
@h3s @MaxC Are you sure? I don't know because, unfortunately, I haven't tried it, but the videos I've watched say that the d-pad is one of the best in years. Quieter than the official but ultra-responsive. For the record, I love the Series X|S d-pad, what I don't like is that they have outdated specifications and drift like Sony and Nintendo's.
I have been using GameSir G7 HE Wired Xbox Controller but I really hate the hard and unresponsive d-pad. I've watched some videos saying that 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Controller for Xbox - Rare 40th Anniversary Edition has one of the best d-pads ever, so I'm about to buy it. The Series X|S controller has one of the best d-pads I've tried, but the other specifications are outdated like Nintendo and Sony's.
I remember the Assassin's Creed sales on Xbox One were above the PS4 versions in the UK, so yeah, it's great to read good news about Xbox again. Let's hope that it finds success in the console-PC space with Asha, Helix and their awesome first-party output.
New IPs, long-awaited new instalments in iconic franchises like Forza Horizon and Gears of War, high-profile remakes like Halo, retro compilations, a GTA that will be sold during several generations of hardware... Yes, 2026 is probably the most packed-with-content year on Xbox, even after some anticipated games being moved to 2027!
@Deadlyblack Hypocritically, they get mad at Xbox for releasing a first-party bundle with additional content and 4-day early access, but if Sony pays a third party for timed exclusivity or early access, no problem!
That doesn't change the early access thing, but it does arguably make the Standard Edition a better buy on Xbox compared to PS5, as you get a free PC version thrown in at no extra charge.
Yeah, Play Anywhere is a winner and it will only get better.
@TrollOfWar I pre-order very few games. This year, Fatal Frame II Crimson Butterfly Remake and Rayman Legends Retold. Basically, to support specific IPs
Control Resonant is not multiplayer and it's not one of the most anticipated games of the year either, regardless of its quality. I don't know how much Remedy got from Sony, but I don't think it was much nor it was worth it for Remedy and Sony, because of the negative PR and because Sony fans would have bought it on PS, anyway.
Regarding official statements, Sony hasn't said anything about not making more PC ports. The next-gen Xbox store will be a console-PC store with the same games for console and PC. Xbox Mode will allow third-party stores because Xbox Mode will be available on all PCs, and giving choice to PC players will benefit Xbox in the long term. However, to make the Xbox (console-PC) store more appealing, they may limit what's available on other stores and consoles, on top of all Xbox games being available. Asha confirmed that they are reconsidering exclusives based on a data-driven and a strategic-driven approach. We don't know yet what will happen, but they will focus on their own console-PC storefront. No other choice, really, and makes sense being the biggest publisher.
I think that all the third-party games will come to Xbox. I'm pleasantly surprised. Some years ago, Konami suggested they were doing mobile and casual releases, but then that they'd come back to "AAA" gaming and that's what they've done. I'm not as happy about the timed Xbox exclusion deals, though.
@Weebleman I'm tired, but before going to sleep, I couldn't resist watching this handy round-up. I watched the Rayman trailer in 4K several times. Some people say it looks bad. I don't know if 4K makes a difference, but I think it looks great. Stuntman Hollywood and Tomb Raider are also on my radar, and I guess I'll wait until Silent Hill comes to Xbox.
On that note, it's difficult to answer because it's one of my biggest requests and it's a niche series that I want to protect, but I also think that it could use a patch to make the frame rate smoother, because it's not really smooth on any console. I hope so, because Koei Tecmo upgraded the last remasters for the current consoles and maybe they even patch this remake for the next-gen consoles. I'm very happy with the graphics and content, though.
@Weebleman I don't know where do you want to go with this conversation/argument, but it's not me, it's them who said that they are reconsidering exclusives and will take a data-driven and a strategic-driven approach. So maybe ask them or tell them what to do?
@Weebleman Being the biggest publisher, Xbox could and should have a solid PC/console storefront that would still sell tons of third-party games. I mean, Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight sold more on Series X|S than on Steam. Of course, Steam is generally the most popular choice for gamers, because PC is huge and Steam has built a community, but that's exactly why Xbox has to find their place there. That doesn't mean that they'll beat Steam, but that they will be successful in the PC/console market. That's also why they need to allow other PC storefronts, because they want Xbox on console and PC, and having (some) Steam users on Xbox Mode will benefit Xbox in the long term.
@Weebleman PS5 ports are not paying off for the most part, but I'm curious to see what they do with Steam. By exclusivity they mean the Xbox store (console+PC) that will be available not just on Helix, but also on PC. That is what is supposed to compete with Steam, if they decide to partially or completely launch their first-party line-up on their own (overhauled) marketplace. They have announced that they are reconsidering exclusives and will take a data-driven and a strategic-driven approach.
Comments 8,644
Re: Xbox's State Of Decay 3 Returns With A Gameplay Reveal & New Release Window
State of Decay 2, after the patches, became an excellent game. It's addictive but also tense and fun at the same time. Of course, I want to play 3.
Re: Persona Dominates The Early Viewing Figures Following Xbox Games Showcase 2026
It's awesome that they will join Game Pass at launch and I really appreciate Sega's games being Play Anywhere. They are big games, but definitely worth playing. I enjoyed them (3, 4, 5) much more than I expected and, more importantly, from start to finish.
Re: Spyro: A Realm Beyond Takes Flight On Xbox Series X|S In Spring 2027
@Weebleman Nice. It's perfect for playing with family and friends.
Re: Spyro: A Realm Beyond Takes Flight On Xbox Series X|S In Spring 2027
@Weebleman Yeah but we need a good and funny writer like Leigh Loveday and not modern nonsense. I'd also trust Rare & Playtonic. Sea of Thieves is really beautiful, so I'd like to see them making a Banjo game on Unreal Engine.
Re: Xbox Series X25 Limited Edition Console & Controller Announced
Okay, one more time, I love those buttons and I've never owned an Xbox 360. The console itself is the one with the disc drive, isn't that interesting? I'd get this, but I already own a Series X.
That's nice.
Re: Spyro: A Realm Beyond Takes Flight On Xbox Series X|S In Spring 2027
I'm so happy to see more Activision IPs other than Call of Duty. Now we need Rare's!
I wonder if the developer is Toys for Bob, that became an independent studio, but agreed with Microsoft to work on an Activision IP?
Re: Xbox Fans Go Wild As Asha Sharma Gives Free Consoles To Everyone At FanFest LA
Yeah, hope makes me happier and keep going in life because sometimes it isn't easy!
We should call @HonestHick, the biggest Gears of War fan on Pure Xbox. We haven't seen him today.
Re: Gears Of War: E-Day Releases October 2026, And It's An Xbox Console Exclusive
@Cheesyman You replied yourself. Since Xbox One, a console released in 2013, first-party games are Play Anywhere. Play Anywhere games are playable on console and PC.
Re: 21 Game Pass Titles Get New Announcements At The Xbox Showcase 2026
Yep, Game Pass will benefit from all these first and third-party additions, especially now that the price of Ultimate has been reduced.
@FraserG Unrelated but Resident Evil 4 Gold Edition is at its lowest price ever.
https://xbdeals.net/gb-store/game/1201158/resident-evil-4-gold-edition
Re: Xbox Fans Go Wild As Asha Sharma Gives Free Consoles To Everyone At FanFest LA
@kuu_nousee She might be the only person that have ever been at Xbox that can convince Nadella of anything favouring Xbox, like ditching Copilot and such.
Re: Xbox Fans Go Wild As Asha Sharma Gives Free Consoles To Everyone At FanFest LA
@Skinny-Pete Definitely. Not only because they sell fewer consoles than Sony, but because they need a bigger market as the second greatest publisher, so merging console and PC is what they will be focusing on, but let's not forget they started that idea on Xbox One with Play Anywhere and free cloud saves. Now, with an overhauled store for console and PC and the same game builds for Helix and Windows devices, automatically optimised on the former, they are concluding that journey.
Re: Xbox Fans Go Wild As Asha Sharma Gives Free Consoles To Everyone At FanFest LA
@Skinny-Pete Not a single day without party poopers. 🤣
Re: Xbox Fans Go Wild As Asha Sharma Gives Free Consoles To Everyone At FanFest LA
@Skinny-Pete When she says, "How about those exclusives?", you can tell she's being serious about the Xbox ecosystem (console+PC).
Re: Xbox Fans Go Wild As Asha Sharma Gives Free Consoles To Everyone At FanFest LA
There's always money involved in everything we do, to live, even. It doesn't mean that you can't be genuine and want to do your best at your job. I don't mean giving consoles away, in between.
Re: Xbox Fans Go Wild As Asha Sharma Gives Free Consoles To Everyone At FanFest LA
Now we know why there is a stock problem and there aren't Xbox consoles on the shelves for sale! Sorry to repeat myself, but I love that controller buttons despite never having an Xbox 360.
Re: Here's Everything That Was Revealed At The Xbox Games Showcase 2026
My favourites:
Gears of War E-Day
Fable
Halo: Campaign Evolved
Persona 4 Revival, although I've played Persona 4 Golden.
State of Decay 3, because 2 has become an amazing game via patches.
Crazy Taxi: World Tour, because we need also less serious games!
The controller with the colour buttons like Xbox 360, always asking for that if you pay attention to my rantings.
Persona 6
Spyro: A Realm Beyond
This year, Xbox takes the crown!
Re: Xbox Games Showcase 2026: Date, Start Times, What To Expect & More
This is getting more interesting by the minute. Global hits like like Call of Duty and Minecraft will be multiplatform because they were massive IPs before Microsoft acquired them. The extra sales that Xbox needs are on PC. The next console will run the same store as Windows computers and handhelds. Most of the Xbox ports haven't been that successful on PS5, including Gear of War. Bringing them to a walled ecosystem that actively hinders the Xbox ecosystem might not be the brightest idea. If Xbox got PS ports, it would be completely different. Then, you have to consider that the top-requested feature by Xbox (not Twitter) users is exclusives and that Asha has already committed to reassess exclusivity. Of course it wasn't too late. Xbox had no obligations besides the Call of Duty 10-year contract. Be positive, I'm sure that Gear of War E-Day will be a success on Xbox and PC!
Re: Xbox Games Showcase 2026: Date, Start Times, What To Expect & More
I haven't watched any of these this year, so thanks Pure Xbox for the articles, but I want to watch this one tomorrow if I can. I won't watch the E-Day Direct because I consider that spoiling a game I'm getting anyway. Same for Fable.
I'm always interested in newer Xbox controllers, although I just ordered the Rare 40th Anniversary Edition after suffering Gamesir's d-pad for some months. Unfortunately, my Elite controllers series 1 and 2 died and the Series X controller is quite worn after (almost) six years.
The news about Sony fans crying because Capcom and Square Enix no longer reveal their games at Sony's shows with PS logos faking third-party exclusivity have left me perplexed, to say the least.
Re: Xbox Boss Wants To Create The 'Number One' Gaming Company By 'Resetting The Business'
Microsoft really needs to manufacture more consoles. They're sold out almost everywhere around the world, so I'm surprised that they're selling relatively well.
Re: Final Fantasy VII Revelation Announced By Square Enix, Xbox Release On Day One
And it's Play Anywhere! I love how even Japanese companies are on board.
Re: Resident Evil Veronica Brings A Long-Requested Remake To Xbox In 2027
The most fascinating story in the whole series and one of my favourite games along Resident Evil (2002). These classic Resident Evil games are so good and Capcom RE-makes them well.
Re: Roundup: All The Biggest Xbox Reveals From The Summer Game Fest 2026 Showcase
So we get Code Veronica remake! Awesome! And is Virtua Fighter back? Personally, I'm very happy to see Palworld keep going.
Re: Xbox Boss Wants To Create The 'Number One' Gaming Company By 'Resetting The Business'
@TheSimulator I loved the Halo TV series!
Re: Asha Sharma On Removing CoPilot For Xbox: 'Our Console Players Aren't Excited About It'
@NeoRatt Nintendo used Mii Maker for the Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom NPC Frankenstein-characters. Just a funny note to add to your comment.
Re: Xbox Boss Wants To Create The 'Number One' Gaming Company By 'Resetting The Business'
@RegnumSolipsi I understand what you mean and although I haven't been on Xbox as long as you, I completely agree! I love Gears of War, but I've also complained about all the IPs that seem abandoned and criticised the cancellation of Perfect Dark 3 which could have been finished by Crystal Dynamics, who were working on it anyway, if The Initiative was the mess everybody says and that I believe it was.
I think that Xbox has a solid yearly output. The remake of Halo and the reboot of Gears of War is because they want to boost those IPs, but there are so many games that are part of their history, that it's a shame most of them are not present. We got Killer Instinct, Battletoads and now Fable and I'm happy about it, but the last Banjo game was on Xbox 360 and that's ridiculous because it's one of the most beloved video game characters. Same problem with incredible franchises like Viva Piñata, Conker, Kameo and super fun ideas like Jet Force Gemini and Grabbed by the Ghoulies, plus all the others you mentioned and that I don't know that well. So yeah, Forza Horizon works well and we all know that Halo and Gears of War are iconic, but Xbox is much, much more than that, same as Nintendo is (or should be) more than Mario and Zelda. I really understand and share your disappointment in that sense.
Re: Review: 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller For Xbox - Rare 40th Anniversary Edition - A New Gold Standard
@MaxC It took me 12 years more, but now I'm so happy about my Rare collection on Xbox and all the other games and features of the ecosystem. I have only said positive things about Grabbed by the Ghoulies here and on NL! Wonderful art style, sound, theme and gameplay, and a joy to play in HD at 60fps. Rare's games are "gamey" and so much fun.
Re: Asha Sharma On Removing CoPilot For Xbox: 'Our Console Players Aren't Excited About It'
This is more important than it seems. Nadella's love is AI and he's not particularly concerned about what gamers want on their Xbox. Asha can do with Xbox whatever she wants as long as she can prove it will yield long-term benefits. That includes the exclusivity of games besides the biggest IPs like Call of Duty and Minecraft and other major decisions. This will be a very challenging but interesting role.
Re: Xbox Boss Wants To Create The 'Number One' Gaming Company By 'Resetting The Business'
@RegnumSolipsi It's not that easy to make tons of AAA games every year for any publisher, but if Forza Horizon 6, Gears of War E-Day and a Halo remake with Fable 4 coming early next year plus the titles I'm forgetting is not enough for one year, I don't know how to classify Sony's output this generation, honestly. They are basing their business on paid upgrades, third parties commissions and third-party timed exclusives at this point, which is completely fine, I guess, as long as it works for them. Not always doing better means greater success! I compare the two because they are supposed to be the big console publishers along Nintendo, that also hasn't done anything really great on Switch 2, in my opinion.
Re: Xbox Boss Wants To Create The 'Number One' Gaming Company By 'Resetting The Business'
@deadmaker If things go as I expect, Xbox Rog Ally X will run all Series, Xbox One and backwards compatible games when Helix comes in the same way as Helix will do, in a "perfect" Xbox Mode. It won't be emulation, but "translation", similar to what they did on Xbox One with Xbox 360 (Power PC) and Xbox (x86) games.
Re: Xbox Boss Wants To Create The 'Number One' Gaming Company By 'Resetting The Business'
@Prestige-worldwide Only about PS.
Re: Review: 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller For Xbox - Rare 40th Anniversary Edition - A New Gold Standard
@MaxC That's right, I joined Xbox because of Rare Replay and it became my main platform soon after. My fingers are crossed as well and wishing the same. 🤞
Re: Review: 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller For Xbox - Rare 40th Anniversary Edition - A New Gold Standard
@MaxC Thank you and a pleasure to meet another Rare fan!
Spoiler: I have watched a lot of video reviews and just ordered it.
I saw some complaining about the rectangular shape and saying it's for small people. I have big hands, long fingers and wide shoulders. For me, the perfect shape and size ever is the Xbox Elite Series 1, but the newer Xbox controllers are smaller. They are all trapezoidal, but when I hold the newer ones, there's a gap between my hands and the sides, because I don't want my fingers to be so close to each other, so I don't think the trapezoidal shape is better for all guys because size also matters. I also have the Mobapad M6 HD (for Switch) which are quite straight on the sides and I love them, although they are more separated in handheld mode. I'm intrigued about how the shape and size of the Rare 40th Anniversary controller will feel.
The are some shortcomings like no hair triggers or the additional bumpers, but that doesn't bother me. The sticks and triggers are hall effect and that's also important. I thought the 2.4G wireless would be laggy, but the tests they do show it's perfectly fine, just not as good as the most competitive and wired controllers. I think that the dock is nice and convenient. I even have a Brook adapter for Switch, so I could connect another cable to the controller itself if I wanted to play Switch on the TV.
The reviewers that mentioned the d-pad only said positive things and, to be honest, that, along the hall effect and the better quality overall is what sold me the controller, because Gamesir d-pads are awful, hard and unresponsive. However, I also consider the official Series X|S d-pad one of the best ever. I hope that this softer d-pad feels right to me. I'm curious about the front buttons, they are not mechanical but membrane, but the reviewers say they're very good-quality. What do you think about them?
Re: 'It's A Tough Topic' - Xbox CEO Shares Her Latest Thoughts On Exclusives
She's basically saying that, as the second greatest publisher, Call of Duty along other massive IPs like Minecraft will stay multiplatform, and that they need to evaluate what games ("content") become exclusive, because "a platform needs exclusives".
They could be considering keeping games off other platforms, including Steam. They should overhaul and promote their own console-PC store and give it something to compete (not defeat) with Steam. If they want to protect their platform, they need to make the most of what they've got.
Selling Xbox ports on Steam and PS5 has been a mixed bag, it's short-term money at best. It hasn't paid off because still Sony pays third parties to skip Xbox at launch, hasn't attracted new platform users and there are no other Sony games on Xbox besides Helldivers II. All of this is bad in the long term.
Xbox One and Series X|S are liked and supported by most publishers. We got tons of Xbox One X upgrades, more than PS4 Pro, and popular Japanese IPs joined Series X|S for the first time. They have the greatest first-party software output. All they need to do is make their platform appealing on console and PC so more third parties join their storefront on day one, being able to remain relevant in both the console and PC space.
Xbox can't release everything everywhere and expect their platform to grow in the super-competitive PC market, while Playstation remains the popular and casual home console and still makes efforts to hinder Xbox.
Re: Review: 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller For Xbox - Rare 40th Anniversary Edition - A New Gold Standard
@Damo Hey, you didn't say anything about the d-pad. I have been using GameSir G7 HE Wired Xbox Controller but I really hate the hard and unresponsive d-pad. I've watched some videos saying that this 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Controller for Xbox - Rare 40th Anniversary Edition has one of the best d-pads ever, so I'm about to buy it.
@h3s @MaxC Are you sure? I don't know because, unfortunately, I haven't tried it, but the videos I've watched say that the d-pad is one of the best in years. Quieter than the official but ultra-responsive. For the record, I love the Series X|S d-pad, what I don't like is that they have outdated specifications and drift like Sony and Nintendo's.
Re: 8BitDo Unveils Its First Xbox Wireless Controller To Celebrate Rare's 40th Anniversary
I have been using GameSir G7 HE Wired Xbox Controller but I really hate the hard and unresponsive d-pad. I've watched some videos saying that 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Controller for Xbox - Rare 40th Anniversary Edition has one of the best d-pads ever, so I'm about to buy it. The Series X|S controller has one of the best d-pads I've tried, but the other specifications are outdated like Nintendo and Sony's.
Re: Xbox Series X|S Sales Have Risen In The UK, Partly Thanks To Forza Horizon 6
I remember the Assassin's Creed sales on Xbox One were above the PS4 versions in the UK, so yeah, it's great to read good news about Xbox again. Let's hope that it finds success in the console-PC space with Asha, Helix and their awesome first-party output.
Re: Feature: 30 Xbox Series X|S Games To Look Forward To In June-December 2026
New IPs, long-awaited new instalments in iconic franchises like Forza Horizon and Gears of War, high-profile remakes like Halo, retro compilations, a GTA that will be sold during several generations of hardware... Yes, 2026 is probably the most packed-with-content year on Xbox, even after some anticipated games being moved to 2027!
Re: Control Resonant Early Access Is Exclusive To PS5, But At Least We Get 'Play Anywhere' On Xbox
@Deadlyblack Hypocritically, they get mad at Xbox for releasing a first-party bundle with additional content and 4-day early access, but if Sony pays a third party for timed exclusivity or early access, no problem!
Yeah, Play Anywhere is a winner and it will only get better.
Re: Control Resonant Early Access Is Exclusive To PS5, Even Though It Costs The Same On Xbox
@TrollOfWar I pre-order very few games. This year, Fatal Frame II Crimson Butterfly Remake and Rayman Legends Retold. Basically, to support specific IPs
Control Resonant is not multiplayer and it's not one of the most anticipated games of the year either, regardless of its quality. I don't know how much Remedy got from Sony, but I don't think it was much nor it was worth it for Remedy and Sony, because of the negative PR and because Sony fans would have bought it on PS, anyway.
Re: Control Resonant Early Access Is Exclusive To PS5, Even Though It Costs The Same On Xbox
@TrollOfWar They're going to love reading that after signing a two-day exclusivity deal. 🤣
Re: Control Resonant Early Access Is Exclusive To PS5, Even Though It Costs The Same On Xbox
@oopsiezz And show their logo on the big screen.. I hope not!
Re: Control Resonant Early Access Is Exclusive To PS5, Even Though It Costs The Same On Xbox
They are asking for the same price (or more) on Xbox and favour PS version for two days. I don't know if it's worth the embarrassment.
Re: The Lost Wild Not Coming To Xbox At Launch, Along With A Few Other State Of Play Titles
@Jaxx420 I agree. By the way, what do you think about Crash Bandicoot 4. Did you like it or not as much as the original trilogy?
Re: The Lost Wild Not Coming To Xbox At Launch, Along With A Few Other State Of Play Titles
Regarding official statements, Sony hasn't said anything about not making more PC ports. The next-gen Xbox store will be a console-PC store with the same games for console and PC. Xbox Mode will allow third-party stores because Xbox Mode will be available on all PCs, and giving choice to PC players will benefit Xbox in the long term. However, to make the Xbox (console-PC) store more appealing, they may limit what's available on other stores and consoles, on top of all Xbox games being available. Asha confirmed that they are reconsidering exclusives based on a data-driven and a strategic-driven approach. We don't know yet what will happen, but they will focus on their own console-PC storefront. No other choice, really, and makes sense being the biggest publisher.
Re: The Lost Wild Not Coming To Xbox At Launch, Along With A Few Other State Of Play Titles
@RadioHedgeFund Those are physical charts and over 90% of Xbox sales are digital.
Re: The Lost Wild Not Coming To Xbox At Launch, Along With A Few Other State Of Play Titles
I think that all the third-party games will come to Xbox. I'm pleasantly surprised. Some years ago, Konami suggested they were doing mobile and casual releases, but then that they'd come back to "AAA" gaming and that's what they've done. I'm not as happy about the timed Xbox exclusion deals, though.
Re: Roundup: All The Biggest Xbox Reveals From June's State Of Play
@Weebleman I'm tired, but before going to sleep, I couldn't resist watching this handy round-up. I watched the Rayman trailer in 4K several times. Some people say it looks bad. I don't know if 4K makes a difference, but I think it looks great. Stuntman Hollywood and Tomb Raider are also on my radar, and I guess I'll wait until Silent Hill comes to Xbox.
On that note, it's difficult to answer because it's one of my biggest requests and it's a niche series that I want to protect, but I also think that it could use a patch to make the frame rate smoother, because it's not really smooth on any console. I hope so, because Koei Tecmo upgraded the last remasters for the current consoles and maybe they even patch this remake for the next-gen consoles. I'm very happy with the graphics and content, though.
Good night!
Re: Roundup: All The Biggest Xbox Reveals From June's State Of Play
@Weebleman I don't know where do you want to go with this conversation/argument, but it's not me, it's them who said that they are reconsidering exclusives and will take a data-driven and a strategic-driven approach. So maybe ask them or tell them what to do?
Re: Roundup: All The Biggest Xbox Reveals From June's State Of Play
@Weebleman Being the biggest publisher, Xbox could and should have a solid PC/console storefront that would still sell tons of third-party games. I mean, Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight sold more on Series X|S than on Steam. Of course, Steam is generally the most popular choice for gamers, because PC is huge and Steam has built a community, but that's exactly why Xbox has to find their place there. That doesn't mean that they'll beat Steam, but that they will be successful in the PC/console market. That's also why they need to allow other PC storefronts, because they want Xbox on console and PC, and having (some) Steam users on Xbox Mode will benefit Xbox in the long term.
Re: Roundup: All The Biggest Xbox Reveals From June's State Of Play
@Weebleman PS5 ports are not paying off for the most part, but I'm curious to see what they do with Steam. By exclusivity they mean the Xbox store (console+PC) that will be available not just on Helix, but also on PC. That is what is supposed to compete with Steam, if they decide to partially or completely launch their first-party line-up on their own (overhauled) marketplace. They have announced that they are reconsidering exclusives and will take a data-driven and a strategic-driven approach.