If by reveal you mean something that we have no knowledge as of right now then for me that would have to be Gears Tactics 2. The first game was really good, and I would love to see a sequel. Indeed, I would also really like to see a similar tactics game but set in the Halo universe too...
I think stretching my argument to cover sporting events is a bit much, @Kaloudz. Unless it's snooker, then cheering and jumping about is part of the experience, and I would not advocate otherwise.
However, this may very well be a generational thing. I have 3 children, and 2 grandchildren, but even my grandchildren (aged 10 and 12), who regularly go to the cinema (and indeed went to see this particular movie the other day) don't behave in this manner, and I would be disappointed in them if they did.
Like I say, it may be a generational thing, as an example I went to see Jaws in the cinema in either 1975 or 1976 at the age of 11 or 12. Part of the experience of going to the cinema at that time was that the National Anthem was sung! Things change, and attitudes change, but not all of it is for the better. So, your argument that things are more depressive by which I take it you mean restrictive, really does not hold water, because this type of behaviour did not used to happen.
You see people having a good time. I see people spoiling the enjoyment of other people who have gone to watch the film in peace, and have paid good money to do so.
However, I do agree with Odium, if most people are engaging in this type of behaviour, and you know it is going to occur prior to purchasing your ticket, then I guess that's fine because you know what you are going to get. As I said before, there are shows where you can expect rowdy behaviour, such as The Rocky Horror Show, which I have seen a number of times, and to which people go in a variety of costumes, and leap and dance about at various moments. I am not some prude who cannot have fun, I just do not think this type of behaviour should be encouraged because it will only get worse as time goes on...
Sorry, @Kaloudz, we are polar opposites on this one. If people want to shout and dance about, find somewhere more appropriate than a cinema where other people have paid good money to watch the film.
This kind of behaviour stems from a feeling of entitlement. Entitlement that says I'll do as I please, and stuff you if you don't like it. It stems from a lack of social awareness and a lack of self-discipline. It is why society has so many issues these days; where so many seem to lack the basics of self-control, and of the awareness of how their behaviour may impact on others.
Like I say, we are not going to agree on this, and I can only be grateful that you and I will never go to the cinema together if for no other reason than I would hate to see good popcorn go to waste...
I'm not suggesting that calling the Police was appropriate, @Kaloudz, but in this instance it was the staff that called them, and it was obvious from from the reaction of many of the audience that they agreed with them being escorted out.
However, my view is that if you are unable to see the film because people are standing in front of you, or unable to hear it because people are shouting and cheering, then those people are spoiling the enjoyment of those that just want to watch the film.
I haven't been to the cinema in about 4 years, but I would say that I would be asking for my money back if people spoiled my enjoyment of the film in this way, I mean, this is not The Rocky Horror Show, where you expect some audience participation. I accept that I am of the older generation, but I would be very unhappy if people prevented me from watching the film with such unruly behaviour.
If this is common placed conduct in a cinema these days, then it is easy to see why fewer and fewer people are going to the cinema, and why more and more cinemas are going out of business.
My view is simple, you should always behave in a manner that is respectful of those around you...
So what about those that wish to watch the film, on the big screen, without loutish behaviour, @Kaloudz? Do they have no right to enjoy the film in silence? Do the rights of those that wish to be disruptive trump the rights of those that just want to watch the film...?
I only ever play the campaign in Destiny 2, @GuyinPA75. I don't do the Raids, and only do some of the Strikes where I am capable of doing them solo. I'm very anti-social...! 😂
However, I haven't bought any of the expansion packs for D2 in recent years since they stopped me from playing parts of it that I own. I'm not sure whether these parts are rotated in and out, or if they are gone for good, but I won't part with money on the game when Bungie might decide on a whim to withhold content that I have paid for. Tis a shame because I really enjoy the game as a solo experience...
I'm subbed until June 2027, @Titntin! I hardly use the service but will be playing SoM this month, and Expedition 33. They will be the first games I have played on the Service this year, but at least it is something! I would have bought the Collector's Edition of 33, but unfortunately it sold out before I had chance to pre-order one...
I think the tactic, @Titntin, is to scramble to put something (anything!) on Game Pass because we haven't seen the quantity of games that we used to, and so these titles are being added to fill in the gaps. Also, I highly suspect that we will see yet another price hike within the next couple of months, and thus Microsoft think that bolstering the Service with a few more titles will make that more palatable...
Just as well that they are pushing Play Anywhere, when you bear in mind that you cannot actually buy an Xbox right now. If you want to play an Xbox game, the need to be able to play it on something other than an Xbox has never been more pressing...
I never played the first game because multiplayer does not interest me, and there was no campaign. However, I loved the campaign in the second game, having pre-ordered it because I liked what I had seen, though again, I did not engage in the multiplayer component.
So, I would dearly loved their to be a third game, and, if it turns out to be true, I would pre-order it just for the campaign. Here's hoping that not only is the rumour true, but that there is some kind of epic Collector's Edition as well...🤞
I will definitely be getting the PS6, @Millionski. Of that I have absolutely no doubt as it was never in question. I already have a very capable gaming PC, but I just don't enjoy all the faff that comes with PC gaming as it is no where near as simple as turning on a console and just playing!
As for the Xbox, that is where I start to question what I will do. I have an extensive digital library (over 1600 games), and I much prefer the Xbox controller, albeit I have the Elite 2. What I will say is that I have always had my Xbox as my primary console, and moving away from that after more than 20 years will be very difficult for me.
Truthfully, knowing what I am like, and despite having absolutely no faith in Microsoft when it comes to them supporting their consoles, and despite not being a particularly big Game Pass user, I will probably still buy their next console. Mostly because I am weak of will. I like the most modern tech, and moving away from the strong allegiance I have to Xbox will probably be too much for me. I will likely cave very quickly, and end up pre-ordering whatever the Prime turns out to be. I may even be unhappy with myself, but I'll still likely do it... 🤪
Fable won't be out this year, @OldGamer999. 2026 is my bet. Doom is likely to be the biggest and best that Microsoft gaming release this year. However, when it comes to the awards for next year, I expect Mario Kart will be the talk of the town (despite it holding no interest whatsoever for me!)...
I don't like old games... there, I said it! I just cannot go back and play them. I have Oblivion on disc, with all it's DLC, and yet have never played it. Indeed, the disc is actually still sealed!
That said, I loved Skyrim, which remains the only game that I have played in the series. Indeed, Skyrim holds the record (for me) with the longest time in a single run, at over 1000. That's over 1000 hours for one single campaign! If, and it is a big if, Microsoft don't screw the pooch here, then I may well be very interested in Oblivion. For that to happen, the remaster needs to be more of a remake. A simple shiny coat will be unlikely to suffice if the game still looks like it was made nigh on 20 years ago, and all the characters are still running around with potatoes for faces. Shiny potatoes are unlikely to cut it for me...
Tis a shame. I spent many hours playing the first game, though in all honesty, I didn't beat it. I got right to the end... and died, and couldn't face another attempt. 🤪 I did enjoy the game though, and will likely have a stab at the sequel when it eventually arrives on the Xbox because I won't be buying another Switch ever again, as despite owning my current Switch for over 2 years, I have only ever played one game on it, and even that only took a couple of weeks...
I mean that's the utopia though right, a PC like experience in the living room without the need for a keyboard and mouse, no online fees, choice of storefronts.
This has been my argument all along, @NishimuraX & @Coletrain. It all sounds lovely, but can it be achieved at an affordable price point? Sure, Microsoft can do this, but it won't come cheap...
In fairness, @NishimuraX, I quite like the look of mine, but if Microsoft were to make a PC, I would imagine it being something similar to the Series X, but 5 or 6 times bigger! Most people would probably consider something that big to be ugly... 😂
Do you know how big a graphics card is, @Deshalu? I upgraded mine 2 years ago at a cost of two Series X consoles, and the card itself is longer than the full length (or height if you have it standing up!) than the Series X is...!
The vast majority of people game with a console under their television. You are not putting a 'console' capable of inserting a full-sized graphics card under your television. My PC sits to one side of my television, and would not fit under it even if I wished to put it there, but then I also have to consider air circulation too, so even if it were able to squeeze under there, it would be dead from heat exhaustion within a couple of weeks.
Like I say, people want something easy to use, affordable, plug and play, and that fits [b]under[/b[ their television. Not some ugly box that looks out of place in the front room...
No, @Deshalu, not at all. I have no interest in console wars not least because I own a Series X, a PS5, a Switch (which I never use), and a gaming PC that cost me £3600...! I don't have a single horse in the race, I have all of them. No interest in war whatsoever.
My point has nothing to do with who offers the better system. My point is that I cannot see how it is possible for Microsoft to introduce a decent gaming PC for a reasonable price (under £1000), and that if they do allow Steam on that console, I cannot see why anyone would buy a game via Xbox ever again because games nearly always cost less on Steam than they do on the Xbox. Plus, if Microsoft give us a PC, then that will enable us to pay PC prices for Game Pass, which means Microsoft will get less revenue for their games, and less revenue for Game Pass meaning that Service will suffer too.
Let me be clear, Xbox is my primary gaming console. I played nothing on my my Switch last year. I played only one game on my PS5 last year; Stellar Blade which I finished in May. I did not game on PC at all last year because despite having a PC that really can perform very well, I don't enjoy all the faff that comes with PC gaming. I like that I turn on my Xbox and it plays a game straight away. That isn't true of PC gaming. I have over 1600 digital games that I own on my Xbox, and I game on it every day.
My doubts stem from concern over what Microsoft may do, and the unintended consequences that it will have on their revenue, and thus on the service that they provide to us. I just don't see the Utopia that so many expect with the Prime as I just cannot see how Microsoft can keep the system affordable, and keep their community from gaming elsewhere on that system, which in turn hits their bottom line, and which in turn will be reflected in what Microsoft offer us...
I know that's the concept, @Deshalu, but then Game Pass was the one thing that was going to transform Xbox this generation. It was supposed to hit 100 million subscribers by 2030. Nadella had a bonus structure that included growing Game Pass, and then had it removed when the subscriber numbers stalled at 30 million (and are rumoured to be dropping since then).
Despite increasing the cost of Game Pass, rolling Gold into Core (now Standard), and having the likes of Call of Duty on the Service, it only saw an increase of 2% in revenue last year. 2%..! That's pitiful, and the rumours are now circulating that the price of subscription is going to increase again in the not to distant future.
Honestly, I think people overestimate the value of Game Pass, and just how many people it will draw into the ecosystem. And remember, PC Game Pass is cheaper than the console version because on a PC you do not have to pay to play online. Thus, if Microsoft go the PC route with the Prime then they will almost certainly have to cut the cost of Game Pass, which will only serve to harm the Service even more...
Honestly, @Kaloudz, what I think we will get, if Microsoft do allow Steam to be accessed on their console, is basically going to end up being a Steam machine, made by Microsoft with an Xbox logo on it.
Who in their right mind would buy a game on the Xbox store when you can buy it for £10 or £20 less on Steam? Microsoft would lose billions in revenue. I would say they're not that dumb, but they have proved themselves more than capable of making plenty of stupid decisions in the past, so why not make the biggest of the lot!
Enjoyed the article, @FraserG, but here's the thing, why would anyone use the Xbox store if you can buy it cheaper on every other PC store front? Games on Epic and Steam cost less than on the Xbox store, either that, or you can buy a key from the likes of CDKeys for cheaper than you can buy it on the Xbox store. That's what confuses me about the idea of Microsoft having a system that enables people to buy their games on other store fronts. Sure, Microsoft would still get some money from the sale of their games, but they would be getting at least 30% less than they would if the games were sold on their own store front. Would they sell more copies of their games this way? I'm not sure about that, but they would most certainly get less for their sales than they do currently...
Sorry to break it to you, @Deshalu, but your idea is for the birds! You will not get an upgradeable PC that has decent specs for much less than a £1000. No way will such a console be cheaper than the PS6. Not a single chance! When it comes to making money from the PlayStation, you have to factor in the cut that Sony takes (30%), and then the fact that they will reinvest that money, not into the Prime but into funding the making of games. Microsoft will be seeking profit, not looking to subsidise the price of the Prime.
The other factor regarding an upgradeable PC is that is not what Microsoft would want. What Microsoft want is a standardised model that they can build their games for. So I highly doubt that the Prime will be something that you can upgrade.
There is a reason why a decent gaming PC costs at least £1500, and that is because the parts that go inside it cost so much. Whatever Microsoft do with the Prime it will either be a not particularly good PC if the price is low, or it will be expensive, but not as good as a decent PC. Obviously, Microsoft have the buying power to get the parts at a reduced cost, and they will likely set the Prime at either cost, or perhaps slightly subsidised. However, even with all their buying power there is only so much quality tech that Microsoft can include in the Prime whilst keeping the price down. So what is most likely to happen is that the guts of the Prime will be decent, but not top quality. It will undoubtedly be good enough for the vast majority, but honestly, the chances of it costing much less than a grand, and cheaper than the PS6 at that, are absolutely minimal...
Having watched both videos, I don't see many commonalities. All I can think of is that both have the same theme; the sale of drugs. So are MOVIE GAMES SA seriously expecting to win a case on that basis alone? Games often share pretty much identical themes, be it shooters, racers, or football. Surely MOVIE GAMES SA cannot think that because they did it first, no one else can do it forever after...? Just a dumb move in my opinion...
Cannot wait to play this! This is in my top 3 most anticipated games this month. Now it may have taken the number two spot (with Expedition 33 in first) having edged South of Midnight into third place. So looking forward to this...
I get that, @vrubayka, but that wasn't the point! Pong was made by real people, whereas this has been generated by AI. The point is that in the 50 plus years since Pong was released, videogames have come a long way. I'm sure that Muse (or similar) will be something worthy in 50 years time too, though, unfortunately, I won't be around to see it...
In fairness, @RiverGenie, what was I supposed to do? I wanted to reply to you, and had already made a post on Push so it made sense to just copy and paste rather than spend 5 minutes basically retyping the same thing. If I had seen this particular article first, then you would have received the original, first edition, response... 😉
I'm not sure they want everyone's 30%, @TheGiraffe. It's far more likely to be the other way round, with Microsoft being forced to pay that 30% to everyone else as their games are sold on store fronts other than their own...
I first played Pong in 1972, @RiverGenie...! Take a look at that game, and just how very basic it was, and then ask yourself, should people have given up making video games at that point because the it didn't offer us what we now take for granted. Fast travel 50 years and we are seeing astounding things achieved in video games that would never have been dreamt of back then.
Or perhaps we should have given up on the idea of having a mobile telephone after the telephone was invented in 1876. I mean, it took more than a 100 years for the house phone to go mobile!
My point is, technology takes time to be perfected, so who knows where this technology will be in 10, 20 or 30 years? Or indeed, what it will be capable of. Progress has to start somewhere.
And, as I said over on Push, I do think that they use these type of articles to bash Microsoft, which is a religion practiced by many on that site...
That really is an interesting way of playing, @Jenkinss, though I assumed that these days people would not still be doing it that way. I have over 60,000 unread emails, so it probably wouldn't work for me! 🤣
I might be able to do WhatsApp though, so I might suggest something similar to my mates... 😊
I've mentioned a few games, @Jenkinss, but I'm guessing that you are talking about the game that I said I am currently playing, which is Metaphor. I'm loving the game, and like yourself, I watch / read all the conversations. I also like to search absolutely everywhere, and collect every thing there is to be found. Had 3 or 4 nasty surprises when opening chests though, and I hate being caught off guard! I like every enemy to be stunned to begin with where possible, so those damn chests can be a right issue... 😂
Now the question is do I get some sneaky practice in so as to one up my neighbour?!? Which, by the way, is what he tried with snooker, but that failed as I can still beat him... 🤣
Does the Series X not play 360 discs, @Sy-B? I have around 200 360 games on disc, but haven't attempted to play any of them on my X. I am fortunate enough to still have 5 (yes FIVE!*) Xbox 360s still in my possession, but none of them are currently set up.
And the reason for so many 360's is that I have 4 different Collector's versions... 😉
So many good games right now, @Titntin. I pre-ordered both Shadows and Prince of Persia, and am yet to start either of them, plus I want to play Avowed and South of Midnight. Just way too many decent games about right now...
That makes more sense to me, @Fishysensei, though I still struggle to deal with more than one game at a time.
I'm glad The First Berserker: Khazan sounds like a decent game. I played about 10 minutes of the demo and decided there and then to pre-order the game. I'm currently playing Metaphor, and will probably be doing so for another week yet before I finish it. Whether I play Khazan next I'm not sure, as I also want to play Assassin's Creed Shadows, which I also pre-ordered, and am yet to start!
What's The First Berserker: Khazan like, @Fishysensei?
No idea how you can play so many different games without finishing one first though! I forget where I'm at if I leave a game for more than a day as it is, without trying to remember 5 different games... 😂
Finally got round to starting Metaphor: ReFantazio, which I am very much enjoying. Currently about 32 hours into it, so I'm not sure how much longer I have left to go...
For the first time this year, I will actually get to play a Game Pass game! Really looking forward to South of Midnight. Plus once the reviews are out for Blue Prince, I might take a look at that too. I'm interested in Commando's Origins too, so for me to have 3 games in one month on Game Pass is unheard of, as I didn't play anything on the Service last year either!
Also, I loved both of the Talos Principle games, and so am tempted by the new game, but if they are going to be charging full price for it, I'll probably wait for a deep sale as I have already bought the first game twice (once on PC, and then when it released on the Xbox, I bought it there too), plus of course I bought the second game too, so I'm a little loathed to buy the first game once more when there is not that much extra content...
Comments 2,518
Re: Marathon Won't Be Free-To-Play On Xbox, But Bungie Says It'll Cost Less Than $70
I wonder how long this game will get before it is cancelled, and whether they will refund the full purchase price as they did with Concord?
Re: Talking Point: What Dream Reveal Would You Like To See At The Xbox Games Showcase 2025?
If by reveal you mean something that we have no knowledge as of right now then for me that would have to be Gears Tactics 2. The first game was really good, and I would love to see a sequel. Indeed, I would also really like to see a similar tactics game but set in the Halo universe too...
Re: Minecraft Movie Director Weirded Out By Cops Being Called To Cinemas
I think stretching my argument to cover sporting events is a bit much, @Kaloudz. Unless it's snooker, then cheering and jumping about is part of the experience, and I would not advocate otherwise.
However, this may very well be a generational thing. I have 3 children, and 2 grandchildren, but even my grandchildren (aged 10 and 12), who regularly go to the cinema (and indeed went to see this particular movie the other day) don't behave in this manner, and I would be disappointed in them if they did.
Like I say, it may be a generational thing, as an example I went to see Jaws in the cinema in either 1975 or 1976 at the age of 11 or 12. Part of the experience of going to the cinema at that time was that the National Anthem was sung! Things change, and attitudes change, but not all of it is for the better. So, your argument that things are more depressive by which I take it you mean restrictive, really does not hold water, because this type of behaviour did not used to happen.
You see people having a good time. I see people spoiling the enjoyment of other people who have gone to watch the film in peace, and have paid good money to do so.
However, I do agree with Odium, if most people are engaging in this type of behaviour, and you know it is going to occur prior to purchasing your ticket, then I guess that's fine because you know what you are going to get. As I said before, there are shows where you can expect rowdy behaviour, such as The Rocky Horror Show, which I have seen a number of times, and to which people go in a variety of costumes, and leap and dance about at various moments. I am not some prude who cannot have fun, I just do not think this type of behaviour should be encouraged because it will only get worse as time goes on...
Re: Minecraft Movie Director Weirded Out By Cops Being Called To Cinemas
Sorry, @Kaloudz, we are polar opposites on this one. If people want to shout and dance about, find somewhere more appropriate than a cinema where other people have paid good money to watch the film.
This kind of behaviour stems from a feeling of entitlement. Entitlement that says I'll do as I please, and stuff you if you don't like it. It stems from a lack of social awareness and a lack of self-discipline. It is why society has so many issues these days; where so many seem to lack the basics of self-control, and of the awareness of how their behaviour may impact on others.
Like I say, we are not going to agree on this, and I can only be grateful that you and I will never go to the cinema together if for no other reason than I would hate to see good popcorn go to waste...
Re: Minecraft Movie Director Weirded Out By Cops Being Called To Cinemas
I'm not suggesting that calling the Police was appropriate, @Kaloudz, but in this instance it was the staff that called them, and it was obvious from from the reaction of many of the audience that they agreed with them being escorted out.
However, my view is that if you are unable to see the film because people are standing in front of you, or unable to hear it because people are shouting and cheering, then those people are spoiling the enjoyment of those that just want to watch the film.
I haven't been to the cinema in about 4 years, but I would say that I would be asking for my money back if people spoiled my enjoyment of the film in this way, I mean, this is not The Rocky Horror Show, where you expect some audience participation. I accept that I am of the older generation, but I would be very unhappy if people prevented me from watching the film with such unruly behaviour.
If this is common placed conduct in a cinema these days, then it is easy to see why fewer and fewer people are going to the cinema, and why more and more cinemas are going out of business.
My view is simple, you should always behave in a manner that is respectful of those around you...
Re: Minecraft Movie Director Weirded Out By Cops Being Called To Cinemas
So what about those that wish to watch the film, on the big screen, without loutish behaviour, @Kaloudz? Do they have no right to enjoy the film in silence? Do the rights of those that wish to be disruptive trump the rights of those that just want to watch the film...?
Re: Minecraft Movie Director Weirded Out By Cops Being Called To Cinemas
I totally disagree, @Kaloudz. What about the rights of those that want to enjoy the film in SILENCE...!
Re: The Elder Scrolls Online Gets Two New Xbox Versions As Part Of 2025 Overhaul
I only ever play the campaign in Destiny 2, @GuyinPA75. I don't do the Raids, and only do some of the Strikes where I am capable of doing them solo. I'm very anti-social...! 😂
However, I haven't bought any of the expansion packs for D2 in recent years since they stopped me from playing parts of it that I own. I'm not sure whether these parts are rotated in and out, or if they are gone for good, but I won't part with money on the game when Bungie might decide on a whim to withhold content that I have paid for. Tis a shame because I really enjoy the game as a solo experience...
Re: The Elder Scrolls Online Gets Two New Xbox Versions As Part Of 2025 Overhaul
That'll be cool. Thank you, @WildConcept6...
Re: The Elder Scrolls Online Gets Two New Xbox Versions As Part Of 2025 Overhaul
That's cool, @Weebleman. Thank you...
Re: The Elder Scrolls Online Gets Two New Xbox Versions As Part Of 2025 Overhaul
Ideal, thank you, @FraserG... 👍
Re: The Elder Scrolls Online Gets Two New Xbox Versions As Part Of 2025 Overhaul
Can you still access all the content, @FraserG? Or is it like Destiny where certain parts can no longer be played, even if you own them...?
Re: Three Classic Activision Games Listed For Xbox Game Pass By Microsoft
I'm subbed until June 2027, @Titntin! I hardly use the service but will be playing SoM this month, and Expedition 33. They will be the first games I have played on the Service this year, but at least it is something! I would have bought the Collector's Edition of 33, but unfortunately it sold out before I had chance to pre-order one...
Re: Three Classic Activision Games Listed For Xbox Game Pass By Microsoft
I think the tactic, @Titntin, is to scramble to put something (anything!) on Game Pass because we haven't seen the quantity of games that we used to, and so these titles are being added to fill in the gaps. Also, I highly suspect that we will see yet another price hike within the next couple of months, and thus Microsoft think that bolstering the Service with a few more titles will make that more palatable...
Re: Xbox Determined To Expand 'Play Anywhere', Says It Will Help Reach More Players
Just as well that they are pushing Play Anywhere, when you bear in mind that you cannot actually buy an Xbox right now. If you want to play an Xbox game, the need to be able to play it on something other than an Xbox has never been more pressing...
Re: Xbox Provides First Look At 11 Minutes Of The Outer Worlds 2 Gameplay
The game looks awesome. Cannot wait to play it...
Re: Titanfall 3 Is Suddenly Being Rumoured Again, Said To Be 'Almost Complete'
I never played the first game because multiplayer does not interest me, and there was no campaign. However, I loved the campaign in the second game, having pre-ordered it because I liked what I had seen, though again, I did not engage in the multiplayer component.
So, I would dearly loved their to be a third game, and, if it turns out to be true, I would pre-order it just for the campaign. Here's hoping that not only is the rumour true, but that there is some kind of epic Collector's Edition as well...🤞
Re: Xbox's Next-Gen Vision Could Transform How We Look At Consoles In The Future
I will definitely be getting the PS6, @Millionski. Of that I have absolutely no doubt as it was never in question. I already have a very capable gaming PC, but I just don't enjoy all the faff that comes with PC gaming as it is no where near as simple as turning on a console and just playing!
As for the Xbox, that is where I start to question what I will do. I have an extensive digital library (over 1600 games), and I much prefer the Xbox controller, albeit I have the Elite 2. What I will say is that I have always had my Xbox as my primary console, and moving away from that after more than 20 years will be very difficult for me.
Truthfully, knowing what I am like, and despite having absolutely no faith in Microsoft when it comes to them supporting their consoles, and despite not being a particularly big Game Pass user, I will probably still buy their next console. Mostly because I am weak of will. I like the most modern tech, and moving away from the strong allegiance I have to Xbox will probably be too much for me. I will likely cave very quickly, and end up pre-ordering whatever the Prime turns out to be. I may even be unhappy with myself, but I'll still likely do it... 🤪
Re: Xbox Wins Just One Award At The BAFTAs, Despite Being Nominated For 16
Fable won't be out this year, @OldGamer999. 2026 is my bet. Doom is likely to be the biggest and best that Microsoft gaming release this year. However, when it comes to the awards for next year, I expect Mario Kart will be the talk of the town (despite it holding no interest whatsoever for me!)...
Re: Talking Point: How Excited Are You For A Potential Oblivion Remake This Month?
I don't like old games... there, I said it! I just cannot go back and play them. I have Oblivion on disc, with all it's DLC, and yet have never played it. Indeed, the disc is actually still sealed!
That said, I loved Skyrim, which remains the only game that I have played in the series. Indeed, Skyrim holds the record (for me) with the longest time in a single run, at over 1000. That's over 1000 hours for one single campaign! If, and it is a big if, Microsoft don't screw the pooch here, then I may well be very interested in Oblivion. For that to happen, the remaster needs to be more of a remake. A simple shiny coat will be unlikely to suffice if the game still looks like it was made nigh on 20 years ago, and all the characters are still running around with potatoes for faces. Shiny potatoes are unlikely to cut it for me...
Re: Hades 2 Fans Will Have To Wait A Bit Longer For The Xbox Version
Tis a shame. I spent many hours playing the first game, though in all honesty, I didn't beat it. I got right to the end... and died, and couldn't face another attempt. 🤪 I did enjoy the game though, and will likely have a stab at the sequel when it eventually arrives on the Xbox because I won't be buying another Switch ever again, as despite owning my current Switch for over 2 years, I have only ever played one game on it, and even that only took a couple of weeks...
Re: Xbox's Next-Gen Vision Could Transform How We Look At Consoles In The Future
I mean that's the utopia though right, a PC like experience in the living room without the need for a keyboard and mouse, no online fees, choice of storefronts.
This has been my argument all along, @NishimuraX & @Coletrain. It all sounds lovely, but can it be achieved at an affordable price point? Sure, Microsoft can do this, but it won't come cheap...
Re: Xbox's Next-Gen Vision Could Transform How We Look At Consoles In The Future
In fairness, @NishimuraX, I quite like the look of mine, but if Microsoft were to make a PC, I would imagine it being something similar to the Series X, but 5 or 6 times bigger! Most people would probably consider something that big to be ugly... 😂
Re: Xbox's Next-Gen Vision Could Transform How We Look At Consoles In The Future
Do you know how big a graphics card is, @Deshalu? I upgraded mine 2 years ago at a cost of two Series X consoles, and the card itself is longer than the full length (or height if you have it standing up!) than the Series X is...!
The vast majority of people game with a console under their television. You are not putting a 'console' capable of inserting a full-sized graphics card under your television. My PC sits to one side of my television, and would not fit under it even if I wished to put it there, but then I also have to consider air circulation too, so even if it were able to squeeze under there, it would be dead from heat exhaustion within a couple of weeks.
Like I say, people want something easy to use, affordable, plug and play, and that fits [b]under[/b[ their television. Not some ugly box that looks out of place in the front room...
Re: Xbox's Next-Gen Vision Could Transform How We Look At Consoles In The Future
No, @Deshalu, not at all. I have no interest in console wars not least because I own a Series X, a PS5, a Switch (which I never use), and a gaming PC that cost me £3600...! I don't have a single horse in the race, I have all of them. No interest in war whatsoever.
My point has nothing to do with who offers the better system. My point is that I cannot see how it is possible for Microsoft to introduce a decent gaming PC for a reasonable price (under £1000), and that if they do allow Steam on that console, I cannot see why anyone would buy a game via Xbox ever again because games nearly always cost less on Steam than they do on the Xbox. Plus, if Microsoft give us a PC, then that will enable us to pay PC prices for Game Pass, which means Microsoft will get less revenue for their games, and less revenue for Game Pass meaning that Service will suffer too.
Let me be clear, Xbox is my primary gaming console. I played nothing on my my Switch last year. I played only one game on my PS5 last year; Stellar Blade which I finished in May. I did not game on PC at all last year because despite having a PC that really can perform very well, I don't enjoy all the faff that comes with PC gaming. I like that I turn on my Xbox and it plays a game straight away. That isn't true of PC gaming. I have over 1600 digital games that I own on my Xbox, and I game on it every day.
My doubts stem from concern over what Microsoft may do, and the unintended consequences that it will have on their revenue, and thus on the service that they provide to us. I just don't see the Utopia that so many expect with the Prime as I just cannot see how Microsoft can keep the system affordable, and keep their community from gaming elsewhere on that system, which in turn hits their bottom line, and which in turn will be reflected in what Microsoft offer us...
Re: Xbox's Next-Gen Vision Could Transform How We Look At Consoles In The Future
I know that's the concept, @Deshalu, but then Game Pass was the one thing that was going to transform Xbox this generation. It was supposed to hit 100 million subscribers by 2030. Nadella had a bonus structure that included growing Game Pass, and then had it removed when the subscriber numbers stalled at 30 million (and are rumoured to be dropping since then).
Despite increasing the cost of Game Pass, rolling Gold into Core (now Standard), and having the likes of Call of Duty on the Service, it only saw an increase of 2% in revenue last year. 2%..! That's pitiful, and the rumours are now circulating that the price of subscription is going to increase again in the not to distant future.
Honestly, I think people overestimate the value of Game Pass, and just how many people it will draw into the ecosystem. And remember, PC Game Pass is cheaper than the console version because on a PC you do not have to pay to play online. Thus, if Microsoft go the PC route with the Prime then they will almost certainly have to cut the cost of Game Pass, which will only serve to harm the Service even more...
Re: Xbox's Next-Gen Vision Could Transform How We Look At Consoles In The Future
Honestly, @Kaloudz, what I think we will get, if Microsoft do allow Steam to be accessed on their console, is basically going to end up being a Steam machine, made by Microsoft with an Xbox logo on it.
Who in their right mind would buy a game on the Xbox store when you can buy it for £10 or £20 less on Steam? Microsoft would lose billions in revenue. I would say they're not that dumb, but they have proved themselves more than capable of making plenty of stupid decisions in the past, so why not make the biggest of the lot!
Re: Xbox's Next-Gen Vision Could Transform How We Look At Consoles In The Future
Enjoyed the article, @FraserG, but here's the thing, why would anyone use the Xbox store if you can buy it cheaper on every other PC store front? Games on Epic and Steam cost less than on the Xbox store, either that, or you can buy a key from the likes of CDKeys for cheaper than you can buy it on the Xbox store. That's what confuses me about the idea of Microsoft having a system that enables people to buy their games on other store fronts. Sure, Microsoft would still get some money from the sale of their games, but they would be getting at least 30% less than they would if the games were sold on their own store front. Would they sell more copies of their games this way? I'm not sure about that, but they would most certainly get less for their sales than they do currently...
Re: Xbox's Next-Gen Vision Could Transform How We Look At Consoles In The Future
Sorry to break it to you, @Deshalu, but your idea is for the birds! You will not get an upgradeable PC that has decent specs for much less than a £1000. No way will such a console be cheaper than the PS6. Not a single chance! When it comes to making money from the PlayStation, you have to factor in the cut that Sony takes (30%), and then the fact that they will reinvest that money, not into the Prime but into funding the making of games. Microsoft will be seeking profit, not looking to subsidise the price of the Prime.
The other factor regarding an upgradeable PC is that is not what Microsoft would want. What Microsoft want is a standardised model that they can build their games for. So I highly doubt that the Prime will be something that you can upgrade.
There is a reason why a decent gaming PC costs at least £1500, and that is because the parts that go inside it cost so much. Whatever Microsoft do with the Prime it will either be a not particularly good PC if the price is low, or it will be expensive, but not as good as a decent PC. Obviously, Microsoft have the buying power to get the parts at a reduced cost, and they will likely set the Prime at either cost, or perhaps slightly subsidised. However, even with all their buying power there is only so much quality tech that Microsoft can include in the Prime whilst keeping the price down. So what is most likely to happen is that the guts of the Prime will be decent, but not top quality. It will undoubtedly be good enough for the vast majority, but honestly, the chances of it costing much less than a grand, and cheaper than the PS6 at that, are absolutely minimal...
Re: Phil Spencer 'Very Excited' About Xbox Handheld Plans For 2025
Highly unlikely, @Kaloudz. However, you can but dream. Maybe a little of the merchandise from Drug Supplier Simulator will help you with that...! 🤣
Re: Schedule 1 Being 'Investigated' Ahead Of Drug Dealer Simulator's Xbox Release
Having watched both videos, I don't see many commonalities. All I can think of is that both have the same theme; the sale of drugs. So are MOVIE GAMES SA seriously expecting to win a case on that basis alone? Games often share pretty much identical themes, be it shooters, racers, or football. Surely MOVIE GAMES SA cannot think that because they did it first, no one else can do it forever after...? Just a dumb move in my opinion...
Re: Blue Prince Debuts To Unbelievable Reviews Ahead Of Xbox Game Pass Launch
Cannot wait to play this! This is in my top 3 most anticipated games this month. Now it may have taken the number two spot (with Expedition 33 in first) having edged South of Midnight into third place. So looking forward to this...
Re: Phil Spencer 'Very Excited' About Xbox Handheld Plans For 2025
UTOPIA, @Kaloudz!!! 😂
Re: Xbox Fans Aren't Happy About Microsoft's New Quake 2 AI Demo
I get that, @vrubayka, but that wasn't the point! Pong was made by real people, whereas this has been generated by AI. The point is that in the 50 plus years since Pong was released, videogames have come a long way. I'm sure that Muse (or similar) will be something worthy in 50 years time too, though, unfortunately, I won't be around to see it...
Re: Xbox Fans Aren't Happy About Microsoft's New Quake 2 AI Demo
In fairness, @RiverGenie, what was I supposed to do? I wanted to reply to you, and had already made a post on Push so it made sense to just copy and paste rather than spend 5 minutes basically retyping the same thing. If I had seen this particular article first, then you would have received the original, first edition, response... 😉
Re: Phil Spencer 'Very Excited' About Xbox Handheld Plans For 2025
I'm not sure they want everyone's 30%, @TheGiraffe. It's far more likely to be the other way round, with Microsoft being forced to pay that 30% to everyone else as their games are sold on store fronts other than their own...
Re: Xbox Fans Aren't Happy About Microsoft's New Quake 2 AI Demo
I first played Pong in 1972, @RiverGenie...! Take a look at that game, and just how very basic it was, and then ask yourself, should people have given up making video games at that point because the it didn't offer us what we now take for granted. Fast travel 50 years and we are seeing astounding things achieved in video games that would never have been dreamt of back then.
Or perhaps we should have given up on the idea of having a mobile telephone after the telephone was invented in 1876. I mean, it took more than a 100 years for the house phone to go mobile!
My point is, technology takes time to be perfected, so who knows where this technology will be in 10, 20 or 30 years? Or indeed, what it will be capable of. Progress has to start somewhere.
And, as I said over on Push, I do think that they use these type of articles to bash Microsoft, which is a religion practiced by many on that site...
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (April 5-6)
That really is an interesting way of playing, @Jenkinss, though I assumed that these days people would not still be doing it that way. I have over 60,000 unread emails, so it probably wouldn't work for me! 🤣
I might be able to do WhatsApp though, so I might suggest something similar to my mates... 😊
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (April 5-6)
I've mentioned a few games, @Jenkinss, but I'm guessing that you are talking about the game that I said I am currently playing, which is Metaphor. I'm loving the game, and like yourself, I watch / read all the conversations. I also like to search absolutely everywhere, and collect every thing there is to be found. Had 3 or 4 nasty surprises when opening chests though, and I hate being caught off guard! I like every enemy to be stunned to begin with where possible, so those damn chests can be a right issue... 😂
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (April 5-6)
Thank you, @Fishysensei. Unfortunately, I own Wolfenstein on disc, but then fortunately, I own both the latter two you mention on disc too.
Re: NHL 25 Is The Latest Addition To April's Xbox Game Pass Lineup
Fantastic! Thank you as always, @FraserG. 😊
Now the question is do I get some sneaky practice in so as to one up my neighbour?!? Which, by the way, is what he tried with snooker, but that failed as I can still beat him... 🤣
Re: NHL 25 Is The Latest Addition To April's Xbox Game Pass Lineup
Hey, @FraserG! I've never played any of these games at all, so I have three questions:
1. Is it easy to pick up and play as a brand new player?
2. Does it have difficulty settings?
3. Does it have couch co-op?
If I do play it, it will be sat next to my neighbour, and neither of us will have played it before. Thanks as always...
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (April 5-6)
Does the Series X not play 360 discs, @Sy-B? I have around 200 360 games on disc, but haven't attempted to play any of them on my X. I am fortunate enough to still have 5 (yes FIVE!*) Xbox 360s still in my possession, but none of them are currently set up.
And the reason for so many 360's is that I have 4 different Collector's versions... 😉
Re: Here's What Might Leave Xbox Game Pass In May 2025
What was the difference between the PlayStation and Xbox versions, @Sol4ris?
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (April 5-6)
So many good games right now, @Titntin. I pre-ordered both Shadows and Prince of Persia, and am yet to start either of them, plus I want to play Avowed and South of Midnight. Just way too many decent games about right now...
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (April 5-6)
That makes more sense to me, @Fishysensei, though I still struggle to deal with more than one game at a time.
I'm glad The First Berserker: Khazan sounds like a decent game. I played about 10 minutes of the demo and decided there and then to pre-order the game. I'm currently playing Metaphor, and will probably be doing so for another week yet before I finish it. Whether I play Khazan next I'm not sure, as I also want to play Assassin's Creed Shadows, which I also pre-ordered, and am yet to start!
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (April 5-6)
What's The First Berserker: Khazan like, @Fishysensei?
No idea how you can play so many different games without finishing one first though! I forget where I'm at if I leave a game for more than a day as it is, without trying to remember 5 different games... 😂
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (April 5-6)
Finally got round to starting Metaphor: ReFantazio, which I am very much enjoying. Currently about 32 hours into it, so I'm not sure how much longer I have left to go...
Re: These 20+ Games Are Coming To Xbox Next Week (April 7-11)
For the first time this year, I will actually get to play a Game Pass game! Really looking forward to South of Midnight. Plus once the reviews are out for Blue Prince, I might take a look at that too. I'm interested in Commando's Origins too, so for me to have 3 games in one month on Game Pass is unheard of, as I didn't play anything on the Service last year either!
Also, I loved both of the Talos Principle games, and so am tempted by the new game, but if they are going to be charging full price for it, I'll probably wait for a deep sale as I have already bought the first game twice (once on PC, and then when it released on the Xbox, I bought it there too), plus of course I bought the second game too, so I'm a little loathed to buy the first game once more when there is not that much extra content...
Re: After Three Months, These Are The Top 10 Xbox Games Of 2025
That's cool. Thank you for the tip, @PartyMarty...