Q) What are your thoughts about co-op and multiplayer getting axed?
A) It's a little disappointing to hear. I didn't expect the feature but the fact they were working on it yet dropped it is a shame. I do enjoy my co-op games, and when playing the likes of Oblivion and Skyrim before (to whom Avowed is effectively a spiritual successor), was something I would have liked to have seen in those games.
Q) Are you excited about this game's release in 2024?
A) Still excited for this game's release though; hoping to see more of it through trailers or an indepth tour of the world before then though.
A) Curious more so; kind of need to see gameplay to be excited. The teaser was nicely presented though and I know my favourite Turtle has the starring role, so I'm certainly curious about it. I shall keep an eye out for more news for sure.
A) I'm pleased with this info. A smaller but more focused world is far more to my preference and from what I know of the Outer Worlds, I'd love for some of it's elements to carry over to the fantasy-setting of Avowed.
I was initially displeased with the recent Avowed trailer, but getting to watch it again in my own time and being able to pause to take in the details, I have a more favourable opinion now. My enthusiasm has returned and it's highly likely a day one purchase for me.
A) I'm liking the look of it so far. The return of Fang is really cool to see and I've always appreciated the classic 2D Sonic games for their co-op appeal, so seeing that expanded to 4 players is a real treat. I imagine I could have a lot of fun playing this game with my niece and nephews.
I still have two spare slots for my game purchases of this year and this could be.
A) Yes, definitely; ReCore was a surprising gem for me. It's rare that I enjoy a game simply for existing in it's setting but there was something about it's vast desert landscape that I found... relaxing. Gameplay was also a lot of fun.
It is a tricky game to dive back into though, so when I had to take a break from it, I never managed to properly return to complete. I'll probably have to start from the beginning again but it is certainly a game I do want to revisit when I get the chance.
Comparing Hogwarts Legacy to both Fable 1 and 2 does certainly raise my interested intrigue in this wizarding game even more. I do wonder how much of that comparison is made purely due to the British-Fantasy basis and accents though.
Q) Looking forward to the new Fatal Frame / Project Zero on Xbox?
A) Most certainly and with pre-order bonuses being a thing, it's great to know both the price and the availability. It's a shame that this entry appears to once again be digital only but Project Zero is one series I'll happily make an exception for.
That opening bit and the changing piano music was particularly unsettling; super looking forward to it. Now I just need to find this elusive spare time in order to play it.
Q) So, all things considered, what grade would you give the Xbox Developer Direct?
A) Oooh; a B or a C grade. Whilst very little of the developer direct's content appealed to me, I did like the presentation and the in-depth focus on just five games. It was really interesting hearing the developers talk and show off each game.
Sadly, we didn't get definitive release dates for every game featured (which I feel is what Microsoft must aim for at the moment given the amount of announced games they have) but we did so for most of them.
A) It's certainly funny to see and that alone makes me happy to see it pop up. Halo Wars isn't my type of game but my eldest brother had a ton of fun playing both entries so I'd certainly like to see a new one pop up for him.
That and it makes for an easy Birthday or Christmas present if a Halo Wars 3 does release.
A surprise but a welcome one for sure. I do prefer my games in third person and it makes sense given that a lot of the bonuses are cosmetic ones to show off the stunning Shelia.
I do hope those bonus costumes make their way to the Xbox Series X but even if not, the third person is encouraging me to give the game another playthrough. The joys of shorter games!
A) I don't feel too much can really be interpreted from this screenshot but it's nice to see at least something about this game after so long without anything. A bit of daytime environment is also a nice change from what was seen in the trailer and it pops quite nicely.
Q) Will you be scaring yourself into an early grave when Fatal Frame: Mask of the Lunar Eclipse launches on Xbox in 2023?
A) Yes, though I'm unsure as to which platform I'll be getting it on. I got the Maiden of Black Water re-release on Xbox Series X (owning the Wii U original) but this being a Wii remastered re-release, I wonder if it might translate better on the Switch. Hopefully, regardless of which version I get, it will have a physical release.
Overall I'm ecstatic this game is finally being released worldwide. I had started to lose hope this would happen. A must-have game for next year and one which pleases me because this also means that the Maiden of Black Water re-release must have sold well.
A) I'm very excited for the upcoming Fable game but with no new news, the excitement has kind of tempered down. It's hard to keep the hype up for so long with little info to go on but I do feel that waiting to show off more of the game until nearer it's completion/release is for the best. Having more of a blank impression leaves less room to potentially critique or doubt footage that might be too early and rough to present.
Q) What are you expecting from it?
A) Well I know from what little I've seen of Forza Horizon 4 that Playground Games can make a lovely depiction of the UK, so I do feel confident in a beautiful Fable world that retains plenty of the signature British charm. Coming from racing veterans, I do feel such an aspect could end up applying to the new Fable to take advantage of their experience. Perhaps wider roads and segments for carriages and horses; potentially a faster flowing game altogether.
A) Whilst I do have a bunch of stuff to do such as videos to edit and game room to sort out, I hope to finally have a bit of time to play Bright Memory: Infinite. I've been looking forward to it for a long time and have it purchased, downloaded and at the ready.
I hope you have fun with it as well, Fraser Gilbert!
Q) Is there anything you're particularly looking forward to in this list?
A) I'm looking forward to Bright Memory: Infinite, to which this article was very helpful in reminding me of the exact date. A shame I likely won't be able to play it until the Sunday due to work but awesome that it is finally coming out.
That said, the work days will allow me to visit the game store to get more funds for the Xbox account if I need to, so it works out rather nicely.
Q) Excited to finally get hands-on with Bright Memory: Infinite this month?
A) Very much so and the end of the month is perfect timing for me (gives me a bit of breathing room for more Rogue Legacy 2 and to start playing Nintendo Switch Sports). Bright Memory was my primary launch game with the Xbox Series X so I've long been anticipating Infinite.
A) Yes, it's looking gorgeous graphically and looks to be more of the same fun that the first game offered. My nephew absolutely adores the previous game and I know a few others who are looking forward to this. I've never played the first game but I'm certainly considering this one.
Q) Still excited for Bright Memory: Infinite on Xbox Series X|S?
A) Absolutely! I had been eagerly anticipating this game last year and have been eagerly awaiting it this year. I had started to lose hope it would ever pop up on consoles but here are. I had a ton of fun with Bright Memory and I hope the same or more from Infinite here.
Q) Looking forward to jumping into Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn when it hits Xbox Game Pass in 2023?
A) Whilst I'm still not entirely convinced yet (the open world aspect certainly has me worried), this was the game at the Xbox Showcase that grabbed my attention the most. The aerial movement utilising your pet looked great, said pet was adorable, the gun has satisfying impact to it and the enemies such as the "big scary birds that want to peck you to death" looked fantastic. I'm looking forward to learning more.
A) It's quite a line-up, though I do feel it would have benefited the showcase if some of these games were shown off in a sizzle-reel. A further look at Slime Rancher 2, Party Animals and Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes would have been appreciated, even if through a quick footage trailer to remind me of them.
Q) What grade would you give the Xbox Games Showcase 2022?
A) Whilst there personally wasn't much to interest me, there was certainly a lot of games shown. I like the format and feel it will provide an improved experience if they do the same next year, but this year's showcase unfortunately highlights how early they showed off all their other games in previous showcases.
Q) What did you think of the Future Games Show June 2022 showcase?
A) No idea; didn't watch it. That said, I'm thrilled to finally see some news on the Bright Memory Infinite Xbox release. I'd been hoping to play that last year.
The Team 17 montage also looked pretty cool (The Knight Witch in particular). I shall have to check out the other trailers when I get time.
A) From what I do know of game development, it is true that a lot of games start off more ambitious and then get scaled down into a more reasonable level either due to difficulties working things, not enough time or simply how the initial planned element turned out not to work as expected. Often, from what I've heard, games tend to start a bit too ambitious.
I have concerns about the "may be further away than you think" line but no concerns about the game being scaled down. Games tend to be a bit too big these days with an absurd amount to do and an overemphasis on graphics, so a downgrade to these elements so long as the gameplay is kept quality rich is fine.
@BartoxTharglod I don't see many others with an appreciation for Balan Wonderworld so this was a lovely comment to see!
I ended up playing the game both single player and co-op. A single player is decent and a co-op run is pure chaos with how you can cheat your way to earlier statues and costumes,
Nice to see Rogue Legacy 2 being received; I've been having a ton of fun with it myself. The game's challenging, particularly with the bosses and fairy chests, but a lot of fun. The insanity that can occur through certain class traits is hilarious.
My one issue would be how there's no way to stop mid-way during a run without forfeiting the character. I can understand why they did this (folks would just save and reload continually) but it means I can't play this game at any point before I have to do something as I have no idea how successful a run will be. Otherwise, a stellar game!
Water is always a wonderful way to show how good a game looks and the rainy scenes look lovely. I'm still uncertain about this game but this rain video to promote it is quite an appealing way.
A) I've been playing Rogue Legacy 2 every day since it came out (well, except Sunday; had too much going on). It's been an absolute delight to play though a little awkward with a Duke controller.
Also, I'm a bit late in saying this, but I hope you had fun with Yoku's Island Express, Fraser! I had a lovely time with the unique pinball adventure so I hope you did as well.
I wonder why they are still including Bethesda in the title when Xbox now owns them. When they own Activision-Blizzard, will their presentations be called Xbox & Bethesda &Activision-Blizzard Games Showcases?
Q) Excited? What are you hoping to see?
A) Excitement hasn't quite set in; I'd say my mood is more pleased. My excitement will likely ramp up the closer we get to the presentation.
As for what I hope to see, my main two hopes are Avowed and Fable. In general I'd like rough release dates for the many games Xbox studios are currently working on. It's better to weigh up my potential game purchases when I know when they are set to be.
By gosh; I was surprised to see Balan Wonderworld get a news article and even more surprised by it's content. The "Square Enix not to value games and game fans" line doesn't surprise me in the least though.
Q) What did you make of Balan Wonderworld?
A) I'm in the rare camp of being someone who enjoyed Balan Wonderworld. It was a fun experience for me in both single player and co-op.
Q) Did it deserve more time in the oven?
A) That said, there are certainly elements that could have been improved. The books contained tons of story elements that were never presented in the game, the Tims could have been a more involved experience in playing with them and quite a few costumes had barely any utilisation outside of their first or second appearance.
Normally I'd say this is the sort of thing that can get touched upon in a sequel but I'm not foolish enough to think this game will ever get a sequel.
Q) Excited to see CA potentially create a new IP for Xbox?
A) Well from the looks of it, Certain Affinity hasn't worked on a major game of their own before so this is certainly an exciting prospect. It's nice to see a primarily assistive studio get there big moment to release an IP of their own.
Another Xbox-focused IP would be nice to see and whilst a Monster Hunter styled game doesn't seem like my cup of tea, perhaps they could put a spin on it that would grab my interest. As mentioned, nothing specifically confirms it to be a Monster Hunter styled IP (are there even other games within that category?) so it could be something more akin to my tastes. Either way, I'll keep an ear and eye out for more news on this subject.
Q) Excited for Rogue Legacy 2's arrival on Xbox later this April?
A) Absolutely; loved the 1st game. This comes as quite a surprise though. I knew of it being in early access on PC but had no idea it had been completed. I look forward to playing it later this month.
A) I was debating what game I should play; originally thinking of revisiting ReCore or Code Vein. Then Bloodstained suddenly had a the surprise DLC update of adding Aurora from Child of Light as a playable character. A crossover between two of my favourite games of the previous gen has made it a must-play this weekend and I've finally found the time to do so.
Q) Are you as excited to see more of Everwild as us?
A) My excitement for Everwild has dwindled to non-existence at this point; the apparent focus on multiplayer (perhaps in the vein of Sea of Thieves, which is a lovely concept but not for someone who lacks Xbox Live like myself) just hammering in the lack of interest further. The game has a nice visual flair, but by Rare's own admission, they presented the game before they even know what the gameplay would be... the most important part of a game.
I've other Xbox titles that have captured my intrigue anyway and my focus is on listening out for news on them now.
Funny enough, I've actually been playing a backwards compatible Xbox game for the past couple weeks. I managed to find a copy of OG Xbox's Dead or Alive 3 and finally got to test out the Xbox Series X's Xbox backwards compatibility. I've been tempted to try out Lost Odyssey (which I own but have yet to play) and I'm constantly on the look-out for a copy of Blinx the Time Sweeper.
I have a handful of 360 games I'll get around to playing on my Xbox Series X at some point but a part of me ponders whether it's best to wait until I've got an expanded storage/memory card before I do so. You never know when I might need that space for a heftier Xbox Series X game (still waiting on Bright Memory Infinite's release).
A) Naturally a level of scepticism is worth having with any report that isn't confirmed by members involved, however the line of "painfully" slow and that they were surprised Microsoft was so lenient regarding the game's progress" does seem to fit my so far perception of Xbox Studios. The lengthy wait for Halo Infinite and the situation with Rare and Everwild (amongst others) do indicate that Microsoft being lenient with their studios is a fairly common thing and, whilst such an approach has it's benefits, it also has it's negatives.
Q) Will Perfect Dark ever release?
A) Microsoft typically gets their projects released in some form (tragic tales of Fable Legends and Scalebound aside) and with the involvement of Crystal Dynamics, I feel this game is safe in releasing. Rough developments doesn't mean a game always gets cancelled and some fantastic games have released despite difficult developments, so even those outcomes are hard to predict.
A) I would be very much excited for E3 this year and a little nervous. The start of this year already had a plethora of games for me to pick up to the point that my Christmas list is probably going to be finished before Summer even begins. My year may have been rough so far but the games have not.
Q) Or would you prefer Xbox to start doing 'directs'?
A) Why not both? I'm a much bigger fan of the E3 showcasing of games news. It makes it easier to find and book time to watch the event when it's consistent and all within the span of one week.
That said, smaller bits of news springing up through the odd other video event do have their place. There are plenty of smaller games that can get overshadowed in massive E3 style showcases and it's helpful for some games to have decently dedicated 10-15 explanations and tours to properly present them.
A) Depends on the focus of the showcase. An E3 presentation has the ability to bring more than just Xbox fans to view the showcase as there are plenty of gamers who will try to view as many E3 presentations as possible, even when it doesn't specifically appeal to them (I know I do). They May showcase can also be a good way to tease some things or simply have larger presentations for a couple or so games and have the larger array of games showcased at E3.
In terms of new announcements, I would say May is too late and feel March would have been a better slot with more time to breathe. It'd give just as much space as June-to-September (if this news is true) and cover a nice Spring-Summer-Autumn coverage of news.
Q) How do you think Xbox Series X|S will sell across the generation?
A) Hard to say at this moment, aside from it definitely selling better than the Xbox One. I don't think it will outsell the Switch in either systems lifetime, but as for it against the PS5... I believe that will depend on the reception of both companies exclusive output.
Rumours seem to be suggesting that 2023-2034 is going to be the years for Microsoft's purchases starting to come into play with new games (not just old titles on Gamepass) and I believe it will be how these will be received which will further influences the sales progression.
Q) Avowed or Perfect Dark; which 2023 Xbox game excites you the most?
A) Avowed has my interest moreso but I'm keeping an eye out on Perfect Dark info just in case it tickles my interested based off later trailers. Neither one has had gameplay shown off yet so a lot could change regarding my wants and interests in either game.
Gosh, 2022 looks to be rather quiet for Xbox but 2023 sounds like it will be packed to the brim based off all the rumoured game releases for then. Xbox's E3 is certainly an exciting one for this year.
Q) Looking forward to Avowed? Reckon we could see it as soon as Q1/Q2 of 2023?
A) Regardless of whether the rumoured date here is true or not, I hope that there will be plenty of space between Avowed's release and the Fable reboot's release. Both games have my attention and I hope they both not only continue to grasp my attention, but are released far enough apart from one another so I can give both games my attention.
So yeah, I look forward to Avowed based on what I know.
Q) Are you looking forward to finally getting your hands on this game?
A) Very much so; hoping we'll get to see some of it this year, particularly if the rumoured 2023 release is true. The reboot of Fable was the final thing to convince me to get an Xbox Series X day one in preparation for it and I'm glad to hear there are some former Lionhead studios employees working on it.
@themightyant I'm still sad about Lionhead's closure. I was really looking forward to Fable Legends and it feels like Lionhead never really had an opportunity to show off what they could do outside of Peter Molyneux's leadership.
Microsoft does seem better than they were before but I don't think an entirely new game under their leadership has been released by any of their new studios. The majority, if not all of the games from the newer studios, were mid-development before their Microsoft purchases. Wait, I believe there was a Minecraft spin-off that did release; I wonder how that fared.
A) I'm hoping we'll see some of it this year but I certainly don't expect a release until 2023. It would be nice for a this year release though; the announcement of the Fable series revival is what ultimately convinced me to purchase an Xbox Series X (amongst other reasons of course).
Q) Will you be checking out Kao the Kangaroo's revival when it launches?
A) This year is already looking to be packed with games for me so I'm uncertain I'll have either the time or funds for this game but I'm glad to see the Kao series get a revival. I remember seeing it as a DreamCast game but never managing to obtain it and I've enjoyed seeing reviews on it from folks such as NitroRad.
If I can, I'd like to purchase and play it but E3 hasn't been announced and there are already 5 or so different games that I have my eye on (most of them releasing around the same time as well).
Q) Do you think Apple will create its own video game console?
A) Apple seem to be pretty hesitant to do anything that would get folks to remember the Pippin and a new console from them would likely conjure up that image. Then again, I've also heard of some Apple Arcade thing (I recall hearing about it from a couple of Rayman and Shantae game announcements) so they already have some form of foothold for a game console... or would it be more of a Stadia thing where there is no console.
Apple is a company that could certainly try and enter the video game console market, but it is a very risky and costly venture that makes me uncertain they'd want too.
A) My overall thought is that this was likely the best outcome of a worse case scenario. If Activision-Blizzard had to be sold and purchased in a whole chunk, then Microsoft was one of the better choices compared to the others that were mentioned/rumoured to be in the bidding.
I think there are some benefits to this deal but they seem to be more in regards to benefiting Activition-Blizzard employees (which is good given the... situation around their offices) and less Microsoft. There was a video the other day by Skill Up on this topic and their thoughts aligned mostly with mine (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9ZlCiwqYg0&list=LL&index=3).
Ultimately, this purchase feels like it has been made a bit too soon. It would have been nicer to see more of the effects from Microsoft's current purchases come into play, outside of just Game Pass, before further spending and on such an extravagant scale.
A) I got one game for my Xbox Series X at Christmas and that was Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles. I just finished the main story yesterday actually.
I've got a few additional things I plan to try and unlock and challenges to best, but I'll admit that without online, I'm soon drawing to a close for things to do in the game. With any luck, hopefully it won't be long before Bright Memory Infinite (which was supposed to come out in 2021) finally releases on Xbox Series X.
Q) What do you think about how Lionhead Studios was handled?
A) I think it was handled pretty poorly. The direction the Fable games took with Fable: The Journey and Fable Legends were all in accordance to the direction Microsoft wanted them too at the time (Kinect and online/multiplayer focus), yet Lionhead got the blame when things didn't go well.
I also think it was disappointing that Lionhead weren't given the opportunity to show what they could do without Peter Molyneux in charge. Fable Legends didn't even get to release and it's something that still stings to this day. It was one of the reasons I purchased an Xbox One and was really excited with what they showed off, despite it's differences with a traditional Fable game.
A) Not particularly, what with my disinterest in these more open types of experiences typically and so far a lack of a cast showcased aside from Sonic (I actually like Sonic's large cast of characters). That said, the Legend of Zelda crossover with Sonic in Sonic Lost World was actually very enjoyable and gave a glimpse of how a open world style of Sonic could work out quite well.
Perhaps I will keep an eye out... maybe it will later show off more playable characters and evoke that Adventure era I enjoyed so much. Still, it's late into 2022 and so far, the year is already looking pretty busy for me for game releases.
Q) Excited by the potential of a Wonder Woman game?
A) Whilst I was hoping that Monolith would be working on an original IP where the creative freedom could allow them to expand the nemesis systems to more varied enemies than a single race, them making a Wonder Woman game is also pretty cool. I think this is the first game based solely around Wonder Woman which could provide some pretty cool delves into her stories and some pretty fantastical locations. So yeah, I look forward to hearing more.
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Re: Obsidian Axed Avowed's Co-Op To Focus On 'Things' It Was Best At
Q) What are your thoughts about co-op and multiplayer getting axed?
A) It's a little disappointing to hear. I didn't expect the feature but the fact they were working on it yet dropped it is a shame. I do enjoy my co-op games, and when playing the likes of Oblivion and Skyrim before (to whom Avowed is effectively a spiritual successor), was something I would have liked to have seen in those games.
Q) Are you excited about this game's release in 2024?
A) Still excited for this game's release though; hoping to see more of it through trailers or an indepth tour of the world before then though.
Re: TMNT: The Last Ronin (The Game) Is Fighting Its Way To Xbox Series X|S
Q) Excited for TMNT: The Last Ronin on Xbox?
A) Curious more so; kind of need to see gameplay to be excited. The teaser was nicely presented though and I know my favourite Turtle has the starring role, so I'm certainly curious about it. I shall keep an eye out for more news for sure.
Re: Avowed's Scale Will Be More 'The Outer Worlds' Than 'Skyrim', Says Obsidian
Q) What do you make of this revelation?
A) I'm pleased with this info. A smaller but more focused world is far more to my preference and from what I know of the Outer Worlds, I'd love for some of it's elements to carry over to the fantasy-setting of Avowed.
I was initially displeased with the recent Avowed trailer, but getting to watch it again in my own time and being able to pause to take in the details, I have a more favourable opinion now. My enthusiasm has returned and it's highly likely a day one purchase for me.
Re: 'Sonic Superstars' Is A Brand-New 2D Sonic Title Sprinting Onto Xbox This Year
Q) What do you make of Sonic Superstars?
A) I'm liking the look of it so far. The return of Fang is really cool to see and I've always appreciated the classic 2D Sonic games for their co-op appeal, so seeing that expanded to 4 players is a real treat. I imagine I could have a lot of fun playing this game with my niece and nephews.
I still have two spare slots for my game purchases of this year and this could be.
Re: 2016 Xbox Exclusive 'ReCore' Reappears With Cryptic Social Media Post
Q) Would you like to see ReCore come back?
A) Yes, definitely; ReCore was a surprising gem for me. It's rare that I enjoy a game simply for existing in it's setting but there was something about it's vast desert landscape that I found... relaxing. Gameplay was also a lot of fun.
It is a tricky game to dive back into though, so when I had to take a break from it, I never managed to properly return to complete. I'll probably have to start from the beginning again but it is certainly a game I do want to revisit when I get the chance.
Re: Hogwarts Legacy And Fable Are Getting A Lot Of Comparisons From Xbox Fans
Comparing Hogwarts Legacy to both Fable 1 and 2 does certainly raise my interested intrigue in this wizarding game even more. I do wonder how much of that comparison is made purely due to the British-Fantasy basis and accents though.
Re: Fatal Frame: Mask Of The Lunar Eclipse Unveils Story Trailer As Xbox Pre-Orders Go Live
Q) Looking forward to the new Fatal Frame / Project Zero on Xbox?
A) Most certainly and with pre-order bonuses being a thing, it's great to know both the price and the availability. It's a shame that this entry appears to once again be digital only but Project Zero is one series I'll happily make an exception for.
That opening bit and the changing piano music was particularly unsettling; super looking forward to it. Now I just need to find this elusive spare time in order to play it.
Re: Poll: How Would You Grade January's Xbox Developer Direct?
Q) So, all things considered, what grade would you give the Xbox Developer Direct?
A) Oooh; a B or a C grade. Whilst very little of the developer direct's content appealed to me, I did like the presentation and the in-depth focus on just five games. It was really interesting hearing the developers talk and show off each game.
Sadly, we didn't get definitive release dates for every game featured (which I feel is what Microsoft must aim for at the moment given the amount of announced games they have) but we did so for most of them.
Re: An Unlikely Halo Game Is Back In The UK Gaming Charts This Week
Q) Happy to see Halo Wars 2 back in the charts?
A) It's certainly funny to see and that alone makes me happy to see it pop up. Halo Wars isn't my type of game but my eldest brother had a ton of fun playing both entries so I'd certainly like to see a new one pop up for him.
That and it makes for an easy Birthday or Christmas present if a Halo Wars 3 does release.
Re: Super Shiny FPS 'Bright Memory Infinite' Is Now Playable In Third-Person Mode
A surprise but a welcome one for sure. I do prefer my games in third person and it makes sense given that a lot of the bonuses are cosmetic ones to show off the stunning Shelia.
I do hope those bonus costumes make their way to the Xbox Series X but even if not, the third person is encouraging me to give the game another playthrough. The joys of shorter games!
Re: Xbox Exclusive 'Avowed' Sees Early Screenshot Appear Online
Q) What do you make of this in-development pic?
A) I don't feel too much can really be interpreted from this screenshot but it's nice to see at least something about this game after so long without anything. A bit of daytime environment is also a nice change from what was seen in the trailer and it pops quite nicely.
Re: Fatal Frame: Mask Of The Lunar Eclipse Spooks Its Way Onto Xbox In 2023
Q) Will you be scaring yourself into an early grave when Fatal Frame: Mask of the Lunar Eclipse launches on Xbox in 2023?
A) Yes, though I'm unsure as to which platform I'll be getting it on. I got the Maiden of Black Water re-release on Xbox Series X (owning the Wii U original) but this being a Wii remastered re-release, I wonder if it might translate better on the Switch. Hopefully, regardless of which version I get, it will have a physical release.
Overall I'm ecstatic this game is finally being released worldwide. I had started to lose hope this would happen. A must-have game for next year and one which pleases me because this also means that the Maiden of Black Water re-release must have sold well.
Re: Xbox's Matt Booty Is 'Excited' To Show The New Fable Game
Q) Are you excited about the next Fable game?
A) I'm very excited for the upcoming Fable game but with no new news, the excitement has kind of tempered down. It's hard to keep the hype up for so long with little info to go on but I do feel that waiting to show off more of the game until nearer it's completion/release is for the best. Having more of a blank impression leaves less room to potentially critique or doubt footage that might be too early and rough to present.
Q) What are you expecting from it?
A) Well I know from what little I've seen of Forza Horizon 4 that Playground Games can make a lovely depiction of the UK, so I do feel confident in a beautiful Fable world that retains plenty of the signature British charm. Coming from racing veterans, I do feel such an aspect could end up applying to the new Fable to take advantage of their experience. Perhaps wider roads and segments for carriages and horses; potentially a faster flowing game altogether.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (July 23-24)
Q) What Xbox games are you playing this weekend?
A) Whilst I do have a bunch of stuff to do such as videos to edit and game room to sort out, I hope to finally have a bit of time to play Bright Memory: Infinite. I've been looking forward to it for a long time and have it purchased, downloaded and at the ready.
I hope you have fun with it as well, Fraser Gilbert!
Re: These 10+ Games Are Coming To Xbox Next Week (July 18-22)
Q) Is there anything you're particularly looking forward to in this list?
A) I'm looking forward to Bright Memory: Infinite, to which this article was very helpful in reminding me of the exact date. A shame I likely won't be able to play it until the Sunday due to work but awesome that it is finally coming out.
That said, the work days will allow me to visit the game store to get more funds for the Xbox account if I need to, so it works out rather nicely.
Re: Bright Memory: Infinite Finally Launches On Xbox This Month
Q) Excited to finally get hands-on with Bright Memory: Infinite this month?
A) Very much so and the end of the month is perfect timing for me (gives me a bit of breathing room for more Rogue Legacy 2 and to start playing Nintendo Switch Sports). Bright Memory was my primary launch game with the Xbox Series X so I've long been anticipating Infinite.
Re: Slime Rancher 2 Is Jiggling Its Way To Xbox Game Pass This Fall
Q) Liking the look of Slime Rancher 2 so far?
A) Yes, it's looking gorgeous graphically and looks to be more of the same fun that the first game offered. My nephew absolutely adores the previous game and I know a few others who are looking forward to this. I've never played the first game but I'm certainly considering this one.
Re: Bright Memory: Infinite Will Support Ray Tracing And 120FPS On Xbox Series X|S
Q) Still excited for Bright Memory: Infinite on Xbox Series X|S?
A) Absolutely! I had been eagerly anticipating this game last year and have been eagerly awaiting it this year. I had started to lose hope it would ever pop up on consoles but here are. I had a ton of fun with Bright Memory and I hope the same or more from Infinite here.
Re: Flintlock: The Siege Of Dawn Gets Exciting Gameplay Trailer, Joining Xbox Game Pass In 2023
Q) Looking forward to jumping into Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn when it hits Xbox Game Pass in 2023?
A) Whilst I'm still not entirely convinced yet (the open world aspect certainly has me worried), this was the game at the Xbox Showcase that grabbed my attention the most. The aerial movement utilising your pet looked great, said pet was adorable, the gun has satisfying impact to it and the enemies such as the "big scary birds that want to peck you to death" looked fantastic. I'm looking forward to learning more.
Re: These 50 Games Are Coming To Xbox / PC In The Next 12 Months
Q) What do you make of these lists?
A) It's quite a line-up, though I do feel it would have benefited the showcase if some of these games were shown off in a sizzle-reel. A further look at Slime Rancher 2, Party Animals and Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes would have been appreciated, even if through a quick footage trailer to remind me of them.
Re: Poll: How Would You Grade The Xbox Games Showcase 2022?
Q) What grade would you give the Xbox Games Showcase 2022?
A) Whilst there personally wasn't much to interest me, there was certainly a lot of games shown. I like the format and feel it will provide an improved experience if they do the same next year, but this year's showcase unfortunately highlights how early they showed off all their other games in previous showcases.
My ranking thus was a C.
Re: Roundup: Here's What Was Revealed At June's Future Games Show
Q) What did you think of the Future Games Show June 2022 showcase?
A) No idea; didn't watch it. That said, I'm thrilled to finally see some news on the Bright Memory Infinite Xbox release. I'd been hoping to play that last year.
The Team 17 montage also looked pretty cool (The Knight Witch in particular). I shall have to check out the other trailers when I get time.
Re: Fable Producer Responds As 'Downscaling' Rumour Gains Traction
Q) What do you make of this?
A) From what I do know of game development, it is true that a lot of games start off more ambitious and then get scaled down into a more reasonable level either due to difficulties working things, not enough time or simply how the initial planned element turned out not to work as expected. Often, from what I've heard, games tend to start a bit too ambitious.
I have concerns about the "may be further away than you think" line but no concerns about the game being scaled down. Games tend to be a bit too big these days with an absurd amount to do and an overemphasis on graphics, so a downgrade to these elements so long as the gameplay is kept quality rich is fine.
Re: Balan Wonderworld Director Was 'Removed' From Project 6 Months Before Launch
@BartoxTharglod I don't see many others with an appreciation for Balan Wonderworld so this was a lovely comment to see!
I ended up playing the game both single player and co-op. A single player is decent and a co-op run is pure chaos with how you can cheat your way to earlier statues and costumes,
Re: Review: Rogue Legacy 2 - An Xbox Console Exclusive You Don't Want To Miss
Nice to see Rogue Legacy 2 being received; I've been having a ton of fun with it myself. The game's challenging, particularly with the bosses and fairy chests, but a lot of fun. The insanity that can occur through certain class traits is hilarious.
My one issue would be how there's no way to stop mid-way during a run without forfeiting the character. I can understand why they did this (folks would just save and reload continually) but it means I can't play this game at any point before I have to do something as I have no idea how successful a run will be. Otherwise, a stellar game!
Re: Video: Here's 20 Minutes Of Official Hogwarts Legacy ASMR
Water is always a wonderful way to show how good a game looks and the rainy scenes look lovely. I'm still uncertain about this game but this rain video to promote it is quite an appealing way.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (April 30 - May 1)
Q) What Xbox games are you playing this weekend?
A) I've been playing Rogue Legacy 2 every day since it came out (well, except Sunday; had too much going on). It's been an absolute delight to play though a little awkward with a Duke controller.
Also, I'm a bit late in saying this, but I hope you had fun with Yoku's Island Express, Fraser! I had a lovely time with the unique pinball adventure so I hope you did as well.
Re: Xbox & Bethesda Games Showcase Confirmed For This June
I wonder why they are still including Bethesda in the title when Xbox now owns them. When they own Activision-Blizzard, will their presentations be called Xbox & Bethesda &Activision-Blizzard Games Showcases?
Q) Excited? What are you hoping to see?
A) Excitement hasn't quite set in; I'd say my mood is more pleased. My excitement will likely ramp up the closer we get to the presentation.
As for what I hope to see, my main two hopes are Avowed and Fable. In general I'd like rough release dates for the many games Xbox studios are currently working on. It's better to weigh up my potential game purchases when I know when they are set to be.
Re: Balan Wonderworld Director Was 'Removed' From Project 6 Months Before Launch
By gosh; I was surprised to see Balan Wonderworld get a news article and even more surprised by it's content. The "Square Enix not to value games and game fans" line doesn't surprise me in the least though.
Q) What did you make of Balan Wonderworld?
A) I'm in the rare camp of being someone who enjoyed Balan Wonderworld. It was a fun experience for me in both single player and co-op.
Q) Did it deserve more time in the oven?
A) That said, there are certainly elements that could have been improved. The books contained tons of story elements that were never presented in the game, the Tims could have been a more involved experience in playing with them and quite a few costumes had barely any utilisation outside of their first or second appearance.
Normally I'd say this is the sort of thing that can get touched upon in a sequel but I'm not foolish enough to think this game will ever get a sequel.
Re: Certain Affinity Is Looking For Xbox Devs To Work On 'New Original IP'
Q) Excited to see CA potentially create a new IP for Xbox?
A) Well from the looks of it, Certain Affinity hasn't worked on a major game of their own before so this is certainly an exciting prospect. It's nice to see a primarily assistive studio get there big moment to release an IP of their own.
Another Xbox-focused IP would be nice to see and whilst a Monster Hunter styled game doesn't seem like my cup of tea, perhaps they could put a spin on it that would grab my interest. As mentioned, nothing specifically confirms it to be a Monster Hunter styled IP (are there even other games within that category?) so it could be something more akin to my tastes. Either way, I'll keep an ear and eye out for more news on this subject.
Re: Rogue Legacy 2 Arrives As An Xbox Console Exclusive This Month
Q) Excited for Rogue Legacy 2's arrival on Xbox later this April?
A) Absolutely; loved the 1st game. This comes as quite a surprise though. I knew of it being in early access on PC but had no idea it had been completed. I look forward to playing it later this month.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (April 2-3)
Q) What Xbox games are you playing this weekend?
A) I was debating what game I should play; originally thinking of revisiting ReCore or Code Vein. Then Bloodstained suddenly had a the surprise DLC update of adding Aurora from Child of Light as a playable character. A crossover between two of my favourite games of the previous gen has made it a must-play this weekend and I've finally found the time to do so.
Re: Rare's Everwild Set To Feature A 'Large Scale Multiplayer World'
Q) Are you as excited to see more of Everwild as us?
A) My excitement for Everwild has dwindled to non-existence at this point; the apparent focus on multiplayer (perhaps in the vein of Sea of Thieves, which is a lovely concept but not for someone who lacks Xbox Live like myself) just hammering in the lack of interest further. The game has a nice visual flair, but by Rare's own admission, they presented the game before they even know what the gameplay would be... the most important part of a game.
I've other Xbox titles that have captured my intrigue anyway and my focus is on listening out for news on them now.
Re: Talking Point: How Often Do You Play Backwards Compatible Games On Xbox?
Funny enough, I've actually been playing a backwards compatible Xbox game for the past couple weeks. I managed to find a copy of OG Xbox's Dead or Alive 3 and finally got to test out the Xbox Series X's Xbox backwards compatibility. I've been tempted to try out Lost Odyssey (which I own but have yet to play) and I'm constantly on the look-out for a copy of Blinx the Time Sweeper.
I have a handful of 360 games I'll get around to playing on my Xbox Series X at some point but a part of me ponders whether it's best to wait until I've got an expanded storage/memory card before I do so. You never know when I might need that space for a heftier Xbox Series X game (still waiting on Bright Memory Infinite's release).
Re: Perfect Dark Developer The Initiative Is Reportedly Struggling With Staff
Q) What do you make of this report?
A) Naturally a level of scepticism is worth having with any report that isn't confirmed by members involved, however the line of "painfully" slow and that they were surprised Microsoft was so lenient regarding the game's progress" does seem to fit my so far perception of Xbox Studios. The lengthy wait for Halo Infinite and the situation with Rare and Everwild (amongst others) do indicate that Microsoft being lenient with their studios is a fairly common thing and, whilst such an approach has it's benefits, it also has it's negatives.
Q) Will Perfect Dark ever release?
A) Microsoft typically gets their projects released in some form (tragic tales of Fable Legends and Scalebound aside) and with the involvement of Crystal Dynamics, I feel this game is safe in releasing. Rough developments doesn't mean a game always gets cancelled and some fantastic games have released despite difficult developments, so even those outcomes are hard to predict.
Re: E3 Will Supposedly Go Ahead In 2022, Despite Cancellation Claims
Q) Are you excited for E3 this year?
A) I would be very much excited for E3 this year and a little nervous. The start of this year already had a plethora of games for me to pick up to the point that my Christmas list is probably going to be finished before Summer even begins. My year may have been rough so far but the games have not.
Q) Or would you prefer Xbox to start doing 'directs'?
A) Why not both? I'm a much bigger fan of the E3 showcasing of games news. It makes it easier to find and book time to watch the event when it's consistent and all within the span of one week.
That said, smaller bits of news springing up through the odd other video event do have their place. There are plenty of smaller games that can get overshadowed in massive E3 style showcases and it's helpful for some games to have decently dedicated 10-15 explanations and tours to properly present them.
Re: Xbox Has Plans For Two Upcoming Showcases, Says XboxEra
Q) Is May too late for the next Xbox showcase?
A) Depends on the focus of the showcase. An E3 presentation has the ability to bring more than just Xbox fans to view the showcase as there are plenty of gamers who will try to view as many E3 presentations as possible, even when it doesn't specifically appeal to them (I know I do). They May showcase can also be a good way to tease some things or simply have larger presentations for a couple or so games and have the larger array of games showcased at E3.
In terms of new announcements, I would say May is too late and feel March would have been a better slot with more time to breathe. It'd give just as much space as June-to-September (if this news is true) and cover a nice Spring-Summer-Autumn coverage of news.
Re: Xbox Series X|S Outsold PS5 In February, Lost Top Spot To Switch
Q) How do you think Xbox Series X|S will sell across the generation?
A) Hard to say at this moment, aside from it definitely selling better than the Xbox One. I don't think it will outsell the Switch in either systems lifetime, but as for it against the PS5... I believe that will depend on the reception of both companies exclusive output.
Rumours seem to be suggesting that 2023-2034 is going to be the years for Microsoft's purchases starting to come into play with new games (not just old titles on Gamepass) and I believe it will be how these will be received which will further influences the sales progression.
Re: Perfect Dark And Avowed 'Probably' Coming In 2023, Says Jeff Grubb
Q) Avowed or Perfect Dark; which 2023 Xbox game excites you the most?
A) Avowed has my interest moreso but I'm keeping an eye out on Perfect Dark info just in case it tickles my interested based off later trailers. Neither one has had gameplay shown off yet so a lot could change regarding my wants and interests in either game.
Gosh, 2022 looks to be rather quiet for Xbox but 2023 sounds like it will be packed to the brim based off all the rumoured game releases for then. Xbox's E3 is certainly an exciting one for this year.
Re: Xbox RPG Avowed Reportedly Targeting Early 2023 Release Date
Q) Looking forward to Avowed? Reckon we could see it as soon as Q1/Q2 of 2023?
A) Regardless of whether the rumoured date here is true or not, I hope that there will be plenty of space between Avowed's release and the Fable reboot's release. Both games have my attention and I hope they both not only continue to grasp my attention, but are released far enough apart from one another so I can give both games my attention.
So yeah, I look forward to Avowed based on what I know.
Re: Former Lionhead Employee Signs On With The New Fable Dev Playground
Q) Are you looking forward to finally getting your hands on this game?
A) Very much so; hoping we'll get to see some of it this year, particularly if the rumoured 2023 release is true. The reboot of Fable was the final thing to convince me to get an Xbox Series X day one in preparation for it and I'm glad to hear there are some former Lionhead studios employees working on it.
Re: Talking Point: 10 Days Later, How Are You Feeling About The Activision Blizzard Acquisition?
@themightyant I'm still sad about Lionhead's closure. I was really looking forward to Fable Legends and it feels like Lionhead never really had an opportunity to show off what they could do outside of Peter Molyneux's leadership.
Microsoft does seem better than they were before but I don't think an entirely new game under their leadership has been released by any of their new studios. The majority, if not all of the games from the newer studios, were mid-development before their Microsoft purchases. Wait, I believe there was a Minecraft spin-off that did release; I wonder how that fared.
Re: Sea Of Thieves & Everwild Artist Jumps Ship To Fable Developer Playground Games
Q) When do you think we'll see Fable?
A) I'm hoping we'll see some of it this year but I certainly don't expect a release until 2023. It would be nice for a this year release though; the announcement of the Fable series revival is what ultimately convinced me to purchase an Xbox Series X (amongst other reasons of course).
Re: Forget Crash Bandicoot For Now, Here's The Return Of Kao
Q) Will you be checking out Kao the Kangaroo's revival when it launches?
A) This year is already looking to be packed with games for me so I'm uncertain I'll have either the time or funds for this game but I'm glad to see the Kao series get a revival. I remember seeing it as a DreamCast game but never managing to obtain it and I've enjoyed seeing reviews on it from folks such as NitroRad.
If I can, I'd like to purchase and play it but E3 hasn't been announced and there are already 5 or so different games that I have my eye on (most of them releasing around the same time as well).
Re: Rumour: Apple 'Poaching' Xbox Engineers To Potentially Make A Video Game Console
Q) Do you think Apple will create its own video game console?
A) Apple seem to be pretty hesitant to do anything that would get folks to remember the Pippin and a new console from them would likely conjure up that image. Then again, I've also heard of some Apple Arcade thing (I recall hearing about it from a couple of Rayman and Shantae game announcements) so they already have some form of foothold for a game console... or would it be more of a Stadia thing where there is no console.
Apple is a company that could certainly try and enter the video game console market, but it is a very risky and costly venture that makes me uncertain they'd want too.
Re: Talking Point: 10 Days Later, How Are You Feeling About The Activision Blizzard Acquisition?
Q) Excited? Concerned?
A) My overall thought is that this was likely the best outcome of a worse case scenario. If Activision-Blizzard had to be sold and purchased in a whole chunk, then Microsoft was one of the better choices compared to the others that were mentioned/rumoured to be in the bidding.
I think there are some benefits to this deal but they seem to be more in regards to benefiting Activition-Blizzard employees (which is good given the... situation around their offices) and less Microsoft. There was a video the other day by Skill Up on this topic and their thoughts aligned mostly with mine (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9ZlCiwqYg0&list=LL&index=3).
Ultimately, this purchase feels like it has been made a bit too soon. It would have been nicer to see more of the effects from Microsoft's current purchases come into play, outside of just Game Pass, before further spending and on such an extravagant scale.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (January 1-2)
Q) What Xbox games are you playing this weekend?
A) I got one game for my Xbox Series X at Christmas and that was Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles. I just finished the main story yesterday actually.
I've got a few additional things I plan to try and unlock and challenges to best, but I'll admit that without online, I'm soon drawing to a close for things to do in the game. With any luck, hopefully it won't be long before Bright Memory Infinite (which was supposed to come out in 2021) finally releases on Xbox Series X.
Re: Xbox Admits 'Big Missteps' With The Handling Of Lionhead Studios
Q) What do you think about how Lionhead Studios was handled?
A) I think it was handled pretty poorly. The direction the Fable games took with Fable: The Journey and Fable Legends were all in accordance to the direction Microsoft wanted them too at the time (Kinect and online/multiplayer focus), yet Lionhead got the blame when things didn't go well.
I also think it was disappointing that Lionhead weren't given the opportunity to show what they could do without Peter Molyneux in charge. Fable Legends didn't even get to release and it's something that still stings to this day. It was one of the reasons I purchased an Xbox One and was really excited with what they showed off, despite it's differences with a traditional Fable game.
Re: Sonic Frontiers Arrives Holiday 2022, Watch The New Trailer
Q) Eagerly anticipating Sonic Frontiers?
A) Not particularly, what with my disinterest in these more open types of experiences typically and so far a lack of a cast showcased aside from Sonic (I actually like Sonic's large cast of characters). That said, the Legend of Zelda crossover with Sonic in Sonic Lost World was actually very enjoyable and gave a glimpse of how a open world style of Sonic could work out quite well.
Perhaps I will keep an eye out... maybe it will later show off more playable characters and evoke that Adventure era I enjoyed so much. Still, it's late into 2022 and so far, the year is already looking pretty busy for me for game releases.
Re: Middle-Earth Developer Monolith Is Working On A Wonder Woman Game
Q) Excited by the potential of a Wonder Woman game?
A) Whilst I was hoping that Monolith would be working on an original IP where the creative freedom could allow them to expand the nemesis systems to more varied enemies than a single race, them making a Wonder Woman game is also pretty cool. I think this is the first game based solely around Wonder Woman which could provide some pretty cool delves into her stories and some pretty fantastical locations. So yeah, I look forward to hearing more.