Next up, the main event. Welcome to our Xbox Games Showcase 2024 live blog!
Goooooooooooood morning Xbox and PCfam! And welcome to the beginning of our live SGF 2024 / Xbox Games Showcase 2024 coverage here at Windows Central.
With E3 dead and buried, the focus is shifting over to a variety of marketing events taking place in LA this week, across Summer Game Fest 2024 itself hosted by Geoff Keighley, into the Xbox Games Showcase 2024 this Sunday, June 9th.
There are a ton of other events to check out and keep track of beyond those, though. With Day of the Devs, the Devolver Direct, Latin American Games Showcase, Ubisoft Forward, and various others throughout the show. We have a full guide on how to watch everything over here.
RELATED: How to watch EVERYTHING at Summer Game Fest 2024.
The Xbox Games Showcase 2024 is rumored to be one for the ages, with a veritable mountain of games both new and returning. It'll also be followed up by Black Ops 6 Direct, revealing the full breadth of the longest-in-development Call of Duty in years.
Summer Game Fest 2024: Rumors abound
This year's Summer Game Fest 2024 is an interesting one. In the post-E3 world, SGF 2024 is beginning to solidify its place as the event's replacement, with dozens of exhibitors from the smallest indie teams to the biggest AAA studios.
Windows Central is on the ground at the event, for SGF 2024, the Xbox Games Showcase 2024, the Black Ops 6 Direct, Ubisoft Forward, and others. We don't have the biggest team in the universe, but we have some absolutely spectacular opportunities to bring you exclusive information across the next few days.
we are the first ones at #summergamefest pic.twitter.com/uULPY4FTyBJune 7, 2024
SGF 2024 is being held at LA, with the showcase itself played to a live audience and across YouTube from 2PM PT. Geoff Keighley, the show's creator, has downplayed the event on social media, but that hasn't stopped the rumor mill swirling about everything from Hollow Knight Silksong, to Persona 6, to Ubisoft's long-awaited Splinter Cell remake, and beyond. What are you hoping to see?
Redditor discovers Amazon's New World MMO is coming to consoles?
Sneaking out just ahead of SGF 2024 itself, it seems that Amazon's New World MMO is coming to consoles.
New World had some initial interest but died off quite quickly as the Twitch sponsorship streams expired. New World had some interesting ideas but, like a lot of MMOs, struggled a bit with its endgame. The game's Twitter account is also teasing big announcements for their SGF 2024 presentation, which could bring some cool new features to help its console launch down the road.
What the hell? It on my ps store page from r/newworldgame
Summer Game Fest is about to kick off, with Gamespot journalists discussing possibilities in the pre-show. There are rumors of Resident Evil 9 or rumored Code Veronica remakes showing up. There are rumors that Dragon Age: The Veilguard (formerly Dreadwolf) could appear, Persona 6, Monster Hunter Wilds, and various others.
We've been told not to expect anything Xbox-related specifically at the SGF 2024 show. Microsoft will focus its efforts on its own show on June 9, Sunday.
Summer Game Fest has officially started!
Geoff Keighley is up on stage, introduced as "creator of The Game Awards."
"Are you ready to see some video games?!" Says Geoff. I know I am. Geoff refers to the reality the industry is facing right now, asking publishers to treat their developers better. Geoff noted that many of this year's biggest hits came from smaller teams and even individual developers.
Geoff has been criticized on social media for the costs involved with hosting trailers in SGF, but has also been praised for the "free" slots offered to indie titles. The fact Geoff has started off the show with a homage to indie developers seems to be a reaction to that feedback.
LEGO Horizon Adventures is an upcoming co-op
The first game reveal is a LEGO version of Horizon from PlayStation and Studio Gobo. The game looks Diablo-esque with an isometric camera view, not dissimilar to the likes of Minecraft Dungeons.
LEGO Horizon Adventures is coming to PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and PC later this year. Xbox is, hilariously, omitted.
WATCH: LEGO Horizon Adventures Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
No More Room in Hell 2
The next game is a perma-death survival multiplayer title from Torn Banner, the developers behind Chivalry 2.
"No More Room in Hell 2" is coming to early access on Halloween, 2024.
The game has been in development for a long time, but it looks like it's finally ready to go public.
WATCH: No More Room in Hell 2 Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions
The next game is the long-awaited Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions sports game from the Harry Potter universe, coming to Xbox and PC on September 3rd. It's nice that we'll be getting a dedicated Quidditch game considering this sport was missing from the recent Hogwarts Legacy RPG.
WATCH: Harry Potter: Quidditch Champtions Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Cuffbust looks like a whacky fun multiplayer
Next up we have "Cuffbust," a multiplayer escape game from the solo indie developer of Choo Choo Charles. In this game, you play as one of three cute koalas trying to escape from a prison. Use a variety of tools and systems to escape from a maximum security cartoon prison. It looks like an excellent party game, from Two Star Games.
WATCH: Cuffbust Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
More info for Star Wars Outlaws coming Monday
Geoff gave us a glimpse at Star Wars Outlaws, the open-world Star Wars title from Ubisoft. The gameplay footage was brief, but Geoff said the game will be shown off in greater detail at Ubisoft Forward on Monday.
WATCH: Star Wars Outlaws Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Neva is a gorgeous platformer coming out this year
Next, we have adventure platformer sequel Neva, from Devolver Digital. It looks just as heartwarming as the original, and Geoff noted to tune in to the Devolver Direct a little later to learn more.
WATCH: Neva Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Civilization 7 has been announced by Firaxis!
Coming day and date to PC and consoles in 2025, Civilization VII (Civ 7) will be shown off in full this August. Firaxis hailed the game's fans, who have stuck with the turn-based strategy franchise for over 30 years. Little was shown beyond the logo, but we should get more detials on the game this August, potentially around Gamescom 2024.
WATCH: Civilization VII Summer Game Fest 2024 teaser trailer
Black Myth: Wukong continues to look excellent.
Summer Gamefest 2024 revealed the launch date for Black Myth: Wukong, set for August 20, 2024, complete with a collector's edition statue and various preorder bonuses. Black Myth Wukong is coming to Xbox, PlayStation, and PC.
UPDATE: Wukong will miss Xbox at launch and physical copies won't have discs
WATCH: Black Myth: Wukong Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Starry Studio debuts some brief gameplay for Once Human, coming June 9th.
Teams of four players will battle mutants across space and time in a sci-fi service that looks similar to titles like Destiny or Remnant.
WATCH: Once Human Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 gets another trailer
Another brief trailer for Warhammer 40K: Space Marine continues to make the game look utterly fantastic, coming September 9, 2024.
WATCH: Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Metaphor: ReFantazio is up on stage, with Atlus developers on deck to discuss the game.
From the creators of Persona, Metaphor: ReFantazio is a franchise that ditches Persona's modern climbs for something more fantastical. Characters transform into "archetypes," taking on job roles like dark knight, dragoon, gunner, cleric, ninja, commander, sniper, magic seeker, merchant, and many more to slay foes. There will be more than 40 types of archetypes to unlock, with some having "evolved" advanced versions, unlockable through the game.
The new trailer debuts some of these archetypes, complete with Xbox marketing.
You acquire archetypes by forming social links with party members. The UI will look familiar for those who have played Persona. The game launches on October 11, 2024, on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
WATCH: Metaphoir ReFantazio Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
New characters for Street Fighter 6 shown off in anime-style
Next, we have a new anime trailer for Street Fighter 6, showing off some new characters.
WATCH: Street Fighter 6 Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Delta Force: Hawk Ops revealed with a glimpse at gameplay
Geoff Keighley gave us a glimpse at Delta Force: Hawk Ops, and revealed that the premium campaign mode has the license to not only recreate the original Black Hawk Down game, but also recreate scenes from the classic Ridley Scott movie.
Delta Force: Hawk Ops is a free-to-play multiplayer shooter that riffs on Battlefield and Call of Duty, while also staying faithful to the nature of the original classic games of the late 90s and early 00s. The last Delta Force game launched all the way back in 2009.
WATCH: Delta Force: Hawk Ops Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Steven Blumhouse of "Insidious" movie fame has just announced a variety of upcoming horror games from his new indie horror publishing label.
From a twisted-looking version of Stardew Valley to wild analog PS1 graphics survival horror, Blumhouse Games will be one to watch for horror fans.
The sequel to Five Nights of Freddy is on the way, according to Blumhouse. He wants to apply the Blumhouse movie approach to indie horror games, and try to curate a platform for the scariest and most "subversive" games possible.
Fear the Spotlight is a "90s horror experience" narrative horror game, to debut at Day of the Devs after the SGF showcase.
WATCH: Blumhouse Games Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind is up now to wishlist on Steam
Hasbro just debuted a retro-inspired side-scrolling beat em up Power Rangers game, that looks truly fantastic. With monsters and characters from the original American version of Power Rangers, this looks like one for millennial fans of games like Streets of Rage and Golden Axe.
WATCH: Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Next up, we have a new trailer for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 from Warhorse.
As a direct sequel to the original, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is a historical RPG from medieval mainland Europe. With enhanced combat, modern tech and visuals, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is targeting 2024.
WATCH: Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Next we have the first gameplay from upcoming Japanese horror action game "Slitterhead."
The gameplay looks a little stiff in this build, but the concepts are absolutely spectacular. It seems you can possess any NPC or even pets in the game, and mutate your body to battle the game's creatures, which also sprout from hapless NPC victims into grotesque insectoid mutants.
WATCH: Slitterhead Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
We got a new trailer for KILLER BEAN, a solo title from one of the digital artists who worked on The Matrix movies.
Play as a Killer Bean, literally, in a Max Payne-like third-person shooter complete with bullet time slo-mo.
WATCH: Killer Bean Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
This is Killer Bean, a third person roguelike shooter from single developer Jeff Lew! @Real_KillerBean #SummerGameFest pic.twitter.com/hKY9uLv8VtJune 7, 2024
Black Myth Wukong confirmed that the Xbox Series X|S version of the game is delayed due to "optimization" issues. It sounds like another instance where the Xbox Series S version of the game will be blamed for causing hold ups, following on from Baldur's Gate 3 lsat year.
pic.twitter.com/RWXV8IrZwqJune 7, 2024
Additionally, the developers confirmed that the physical versions of the game will not contain a disc, owing to distribution issues.
Black Myth: Wukong physical versions won't launch with an actual disc due to "limitations" in distribution/export + being their first global release, developer Game Science says.They're "actively working on resolving these issues".➡️ https://t.co/pP18huc2B2 #BlackMythWukong pic.twitter.com/q4oPERWH8eJune 7, 2024
We got a new trailer for The First Descendant
This is a hotly anticipated sci-fi service title from Nexon. It's a crazy free-to-play co-op looter-shooter with a Warframe feel. The game is set to debut on July 2nd, 2024, for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation, and Steam.
WATCH: The First Descendant Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Among Us devs announce new Outer Sloth publishing label
Inner Sloth, the developers of Among Us just announced their own publishing label, "Outer Sloth," with a variety of publishing deals to help fund other indie developers. There was also a brief tease of the Among Us TV show.
WATCH: Inner Sloth devs at Summer Game Fest 2024
Sonic x Shadow Generations was given a launch date of October 25th. Blending modern and classic Sonic gameplay, Sonic x Shadow Generations is a remaster of the original Sonic Generations, with some extra bits and pieces.
WATCH: Sonic x Shadows Generations Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Cairn looks like a challenging adventure
Cairn is an upcoming climbing survival simulation narrative game, which tries to recreate the extreme difficulty and life-threatening danger of mountaineering.
WATCH: Cairn Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Remedy just shadow-dropped the Alan Wake 2 DLC "Night Springs"
That's right, Alan Wake 2 DLC releases June 8, 2024. We also learned that physical versions of Alan Wake 2 are on the way this fall. Night Springs will be available tomorrow on June 8th, for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC.
Night Springs looks like it is a collection of "What if" scenarios (three, to be exact) that doubles down on Alan Wake 2's more eclectic elements.
WATCH: Alan Wake 2 Night Springs Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Here’s your first look at the Alan Wake 2 Physical Collector’s Edition. Who’ll be buying this one? Raise your hands🤚🏼 pic.twitter.com/tAGQS6aOiEJune 7, 2024
We saw a cool new trailer for Kunitsu-gami: Path of the Goddess
We're now being treated to a new trailer for Capcom's Kunitsu-gami: Path of the Goddess, with spectacular visuals and unique combat gameplay. The game is set to launch July 19, 2024 for Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC.
WATCH: Kunitsu-gami: Path of the Goddess Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Pocketpair's Palworld is getting a major update
Palworld is adding a whole new island with a Japanese-inspired theme, complete with new pals to collect, environments to explore, and items to build.
With the Palworld Sakurajima Update, Xbox will get dedicated servers, finally, with a new level cap and new subspecies options to collect. They're also adding new raids and a new Stronghold, called Oil Rig, on top of a competitive battle Arena. There's also a new faction alongside a new boss as well. The Sakurajima update drops on June 22nd, 2024.
WATCH: Palworld Sakurajima Update Summer Game Fest trailer
🌸Palworld Sakurajima Update - June 27th🌸🧭New Island🐸Tons of new Pals and subspecies!🔥Challenge a new raid and hard-mode bosses!⚓Plunder an enemy oil rig!🚀Expanded building, new level cap and more!🤝Xbox Dedicated Servers!⚔️Arena!🌸...and more! Coming June 27th!🌸 pic.twitter.com/fQMNkl4NoCJune 7, 2024
Riot Games and the Valorant team are on stage now. It seems as though the game is finally coming to consoles, after a long period of PC exclusivity.
Valorant is a tactical hero shooter that combines elements of Overwatch and Counter Strike.
Valorant is indeed coming to PlayStation and Xbox Series X|S, with a limited beta on June 14, 2024. It's planning to launch on console later this year.
WATCH: Valorant Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
We now have Monster Hunter Wilds developers up on stage.
Monster Hunter Wilds is heading to Xbox, PC, and PS5 in 2025. Capcom says they're looking to emphasize immersion with the latest iteration of the classic action RPG franchise, Capcom also said that Monster Hunter Wilds will be playable to the public for the first time at Gamescom 2024 in August.
The new trailer showcases mounted combat, with players battling some corkscrew-shaped lizards that swim in the desert sand as though it was liquid. The mobs create sand traps like an antlion and can use cliffs to take snipes at hunters from afar. The trailer also showcased an electric bat wyvern-looking thing. We also learned that Monster Hunter Wilds will have cross-play.
WATCH: Monster Hunter Wilds Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
Additionally, Capcom confirmed Monster Hunter Wilds will feature full crossplay between Xbox, PC, and PlayStation, a first for the series.
Crossplay CONFIRMED!As announced at Summer Game Fest, crossplay is coming to Monster Hunter Wilds! No matter where you are, hunters are stronger together. #MHWilds pic.twitter.com/pmxYOk2QntJune 7, 2024
Phantom Blade Zero is getting another showcase.
The dark soulslike samurai action RPG looks absolutely fantastic again, showcasing a variety of attacks, twisted demonic entities, alongside a Sekiro-like stagger and parry system. The game will be available for hands-on play at Gamescom 2024. The game is slated to launch in 2025 for PlayStation and PC.
WATCH: Phantom Blade Zero Summer Game Fest 2024 trailer
And that's a wrap on Summer Game Fest!
Geoff Keighley showed off over 50 games at this year's show, of titles of all shapes and sizes. The vast majority of the titles showcased here were from smaller studios, however, and I expect some of the bigger "heavy hitters" will probably be at Xbox's show on Sunday.
Thanks for joining us. We'll be posting cool new trailers from Day of the Devs and Devolver Direct, and then moving into ongoing coverage tomorrow as we head towards the main event this Sunday.
— Jez Corden
Wholesome Direct 2024 is about to start!
Wholesome Direct 2024 is about to start and promises to show over 70 video games. This is Rebecca Spear and I'll be highlighting some titles that are coming to Xbox and PC.
WATCH: Wholesome Direct 2024 livestream
You can wishlist Mythmatch on Steam
In this game, you play as Artemis as you work to rebuild Ithaca and interact with mortals. It has a cute 2D art-style that's somewhat reminiscent of the original Zelda games.
WATCH: Mythmatch trailer
Caravan SandWitch is a casual exploration game with a demo on Steam
In this colorful game, you'll be able to wander through an intriguing land while interacting with interesting characters.
WATCH: Caravan SandWitch trailer
You can check out the demo for ILA: A Frosty Glide on Steam
This wintery game has you playing as a witch who can platform around with the help of her broom. There are various characters to discover and mysteries to uncover. There is currently a demo for it on Steam.
WATCH: ILA: A Frosty Glide trailer
Dungeons of Hinterberg is a action RPG heading to Xbox and PC
This colorful adventure has players running around the a whacky and colorful world and diving into its dungeons. You'll be able to do a lot of different things during your travels. It's releasing for Xbox Series X|S, Game Pass, and PC on July 18, 2024.
WATCH: Dungeons of Hinterberg trailer
Littlelands also has a free demo currently on Steam
This upcoming cozy sandbox game gives off Animal Crossing vibes but with more camera angles. It looks like you can fish, talk to various creatures, collect bugs, go exploring, and much more.
WATCH: Littlelands trailer
POOOOL is a fun puzzle game that just dropped on Steam
Based on what we saw during Wholesome Direct, it feels like POOOOL's mechanics are somewhat similar to the successful Suika Game that hit Nintendo Switch last year. You're basically playing pool, but with various balls of different shapes and colors. If the same colors strike together, they form into a larger, different colored ball. See how high of a score you can get before running out of space.
WATCH: POOOOL trailer
Kamaeru: A Frog Refuge just released during the Wholesome Direct on Steam and Xbox
This adorable farming sim has you take care of frogs by providing them with facilities and taking part in mini-games. It looks ridiculously cute and it's just dropped on Steam. It's also
WATCH: Kamaeru: A Frog Refuge trailer
Travellers Rest is getting an update this July
This pixel graphics life sim is getting an update this July that will add more features including a story. Altogether, it will allow players to farm, gather materials, run a tavern, explore, buy unique items, go fishing, and more.
WATCH: Travellers Rest City and Story Update trailer
SOPA - Tale of the Stolen Potato is coming to Game Pass, Xbox, and PC
This looks like it's going to be a whacky adventure filled with crazy lizards. Miho is asked to get a potato for his grandmother only to end up in a magical place filled with talking animals. It's coming to Game Pass, Xbox, and PC sometime in August 2024.
WATCH: SOPA - Tale of the Stolen Potato trailer
Petit Island is coming to Xbox and Steam sometime soon
You play as a bipedal cat who wanders around a gorgeous island where you'll meet other islanders and discover your grandfather's memories. It looks incredibly cute and it's coming to Xbox, Steam, PS5, and Nintendo Switch sometime "soon".
WATCH: Petit Island trailer
Tracks of Thought dropped on Steam today!
You play as a little ladybug on a train who discovers that you and everyone around you has "forgotten something important." The title is a play on words since the point of the game is to help other passengers with their troubles, but you don't always agree on things. One of seven passengers will accompany you, and you'll have to find ways to reach a consensus on decisions. This is done through card battles and other minigames.
Tracks of Thought just dropped on Steam today, so you can play it right now!
WATCH: Tracks of Thought trailer
That's a wrap for Wholesome Direct 2024!
There are a lot of cozy titles headed to Xbox and PC in the near future. I for one am excited to play several of these game on my ROG Ally. Anything with adorable visuals and retro-style games, in particular, seem perfectly suited to gaming handhelds.
We'll be back tomorrow to cover Xbox Games Showcase 2024, so be sure to come back then!
The Xbox Games Showcase 2024 is just about to begin.
This year's Xbox Games Showcase comes against a back drop of industry turmoil, with thousands of layoffs across the entire industry, including Microsoft. Tango Gameworks shut down, Arkane Austin consolidated, and other smaller teams have been forced to find other employment as playtime hours recede in the wake of the pandemic's end.
Microsoft still has tens of thousands of employees building the next generation of games for its Xbox Series X|S platform, as well as Windows PCs. Just ten minutes from the start of the show, Xbox lead Phil Spencer is joined by studios lead Matt Booty, and platform lead Sarah Bond live in Los Angeles to introduce the show to those on the ground.
Hmm. Now what is in there? pic.twitter.com/MYW9Jn9HGpJune 9, 2024
Rumors are swirling already about new Xbox hardware.
Microsoft is widely rumored to be working on an Xbox handheld, confirmed as being in prototyping at the very least by us here at Windows Central. But, Microsoft is also known to be working on refreshes of the Xbox Series X, to drop the disc drive, as well as a new controller with some haptic feedback support similar in style to what is available on Sony's PS5 controller. What could be under the cloth here? 🤔
Looks like we're starting slightly early!
First up, we have a montage leading with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. Now known to be a spy thriller set in the Gulf War era.
Set in 1991, Black Ops 6 takes place against the backdrop of the collapse of the Soviet Union. Prodigy's Firestarter remixed is playing, and it's badass. This could be the most spectacular Call of Duty in years, owing to the game's much longer development cycle.
Phil Spencer notes that for the first time, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 will be matched like for like on all platforms, with no strange exclusivity deals of the Xbox 360 or PlayStation 4 era. For more information, check out our Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 FAQ.
WATCH TRAILER: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
Next, we have a look at DOOM: The Dark Ages.
"Before he became a hero," we have a look at the DOOM Slayer from his time with the medieval-styled Night Sentinels. The weapons here are gritty and steam punky almost, The Doom Slayer now has a shield with a chainsaw edge (because of course he does). He can also now control mechs, and has flying contraptions.
It's also coming day one to Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. There's no mention of a PlayStation version, but we heard from previous leaks / rumors that it would indeed be coming to PlayStation. We'll try to confirm.
WATCH TRAILER: Doom: The Dark Ages
State of Decay 3 is up on screen, and the visual quality is a huge step up from the previous game.
State of Decay 3 leaked yesterday by accidental press release, showcasing State of Decay developer Undead Labs' new logo. The new animations and visuals look like a huge step up for the studio, who has been working with Gears of War developer The Coalition to get everything to the next level.
We got hints that the game goes a little harder on story narratives this time around. "We'll keep your memory alive," the narrator says, after a community member dies in a zombie attack. We've had a look at the screamer and juggernaut archetypes returning. It also seems there'll be some kind of facility for storing "memories" and trinkets from deceased survivors.
Also for Xbox Game Pass.
WATCH TRAILER: State of Decay 3 trailer
Dragon Age: The Veilguard is now on screen, bringing "solace" to a long suffering fan base.
The Veilguard is a new crew or fellowship who tasks themselves with protecting the veil, which was shattered and weakened in Dragon Age: Inquisition. It looks like Varric is returning, and the game is launching Fall 2024 for Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation.
WATCH TRAILER: Dragon Age: The Veilguard
Starfield's expansion Shattered Space is launching later this year.
As speculated, Shattered Space revolves around the enigmatic space cult House Varuun. Bethesda also shadow dropped The Creation Kit modding tools during the show.
WATCH TRAILER: Starfield Shattered Space
We have a spectacular turn-based RPG on screen now.
This game looks fantastic, and looks almost like a photorealistic version of Persona, with turn-based combat and wild visuals. The game is called Expedition 33, by Kepler. It's also coming Day One to Xbox Game Pass.
WATCH TRAILER: Expedition 33
South of Midnight is up on screen, with its stunning stop-motion cutscenes.
I was told last night at Xbox events that while the cutscenes have a stop-motion style, the actual gameplay will be a smoother frame rate (oh and after I wrote this, it actually appeared on screen) so don't worry about that bit. The main character is riding a giant catfish, and we've had our first look at gameplay.
South of Midnight looks like a hack n' slash that riffs on Devil May Cry at first glance, with dodging and the like. The main character uses spirit weapons to vanquish corrupted foes, which heal the land after they die.
WATCH TRAILER: South of Midnight
We have a new trailer for World of Warcraft on-screen.
We have a glimpse at in-game cinematics for The War Within, with implications that X'alatath is trying to corrupt the worldsoul of Azeroth itself.
We have the launch date, August 26, 2024.
WATCH TRAILER: World of Warcraft: The War Within
We now have another look at Metal Gears Solid 3: Delta, the remake of the classic stealth 'em up.
Konami has been "remaking" some of its games of late, with a variety of partners. While the Silent Hill 2 remake looks a bit iffy, the Metal Gear Solid 3 remake looks surprisingly solid. It seems like it retains much of the features of the original, and the studio behind it already confirmed that it'll basically be a 1:1 remake with all the same original voiceovers, with the legendary David Hayter at the helm.
WATCH TRAILER: Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater
Flintlock finally gets a launch date!
Flintlock is the next game from the developers of Ashen, and it looks like it takes some clear inspiration from Bloodborne with the dual melee/pistol style gameplay, albeit with a bright and fantastical edge.
The game launches July 18, 2024.
WATCH TRAILER: Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn
Perfect Dark gameplay is revealed, finally.
After a notoriously difficult and long development cycle, Perfect Dark has finally broken cover. The spy-thriller looks every bit as espionage-tastic as the original games, with a heavy dose of Mirror's Edge-style parkour gameplay. We've seen a variety of gadgets and hacking tools up on screen, as well as cybernetic enhancements and bullet-time FPS combat and melee martial arts counters. The game looks absolutely fantastic, but Microsoft stopped short of giving it a launch window.
WATCH TRAILER: Perfect Dark
Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred is up on screen.
Blizzard is presenting the opening CGI cinematic for Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred, with a warning that the footage may be disturbing (lol). Launching October 8, 2024, Vessel of Hatred will bring new lands, and a new class to play.
A continuation of the base game's story, the Vessel of Hatred is a soul stone housing the spirit of Mephisto. Neyrelle is struggling to carry the vessel across the sea, trying to carry it to Akarat's tomb. Neyrelle's "mother" appears, although it could simply be a twisted vision from Mephisto ... just watch it.
WATCH TRAILER: Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred
We've had another cinematic look at Fable.
Fable has appeared again, but this time it was a cutscene that seems to set up more of the story. Sadly there was no gameplay, but it seems that it's launching in 2025.
WATCH TRAILER: Fable
A new trailer for Flight Simulator 2024 is up on screen.
"Powered by Azure and Bing satellite data," Flight Simulator 2024 re-emphasizes its career-based gameplay, allowing players to undertake aerial jobs such as VIP charter services, aerial advertising, agricultural aviation, search and rescue, air ambulances, and much more.
The visuals are absolutely insane, with what seems like a deeper effort to curate the ground. Indeed, it even seems to have the ability to land, exit your plane, and take photographs of the surroundings. The player grabbed a photo of a deer, for example. Incredibly impressive.
Coming November 19, 2024, to Xbox Game Pass platforms.
WATCH TRAILER: Flight Simulator 2024
Next we have a new Elder Scrolls Online trailer.
The trailer is a fun look at friendships made in the game, with a look at mini pets and some of the more "chill" things you can do in-game, like play instruments and the like. The Gold Road expansion launches on June 18, 2024, and Bethesda announced that for a limited time, all expansions will be free to play.
WATCH TRAILER: Elder Scrolls Online
Life is Strange: "Double Exposure" is up on screen.
Max Caulfield is back, and her powers have grown, allowing her to investigate multiple timelines. Her friend Safi has been murdered, and Max's ability to investigate multiple timelines will help guide players on Max's quest to rescue her friend from her grisly fate.
WATCH TRAILER: Life is Strange: Double Exposure
Indiana Jones is up on screen from Machine Games.
We've had another look at Indiana Jones gameplay. Indiana quests to find "The Great Circle," in what is a combination of both first and third-person gameplay. Indiana is charting through the Himalayas with a companion, offering a glimpse at some of the game's Nazi antagonists. Machine Games are the experts of Nazi-killing games after all.
The voice work is uncanny. The Nazis try to take an artifact from Indiana, only to be offered a live grenade instead. The glacier begins to crumble, in an authentically slapstick action sequence that is as nostalgic as it is spectacular.
WATCH TRAILER: Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
A new dark fantasy martial arts game is on screen, "Wuchang: Fallen Feathers."
Coming to Xbox Game Pass, Wuchang looks like Microsoft's answer to Black Myth Wukong, which has arbitrarily delayed its Xbox version for "optimization" reasons that aren't fully explained. Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is coming to Xbox and Game Pass in 2025.
WATCH TRAILER: Wuchang: Fallen Feathers
Assassin's Creed: Shadows is up on screen, with a November 15, 2024 launch date.
Shadows looks fantastic, with a revamped combat gameplay loop in a fantastical Japanese Edo period open world. For more information, check out our Assassin's Creed Shadows FAQ.
WATCH TRAILER: Assassin's Creed Shadows
We caught another glimpse at Avowed, with a 2024 launch window.
In Avowed, you'll play as an envoy of Aedyr to investigate a mysterious magical plague spreading throughout the land. Set in the Pillars universe and following Obsidian's traditions for branching narratives, Avowed should be a good shout for RPG fans.
WATCH TRAILER: Avowed
A new fantastic trailer for STALKER 2 is up on screen now.
A large upgrade from previous showings, Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl looks like it has had some huge upgrades over the past couple of years. Viscerally realistic shooter combat in an anomaly-laden waste.
WATCH TRAILER: STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl
Sarah Bond just debuted some new Xbox consoles.
Microsoft has announced new Xbox Series X|S consoles with new storage options, as well as a "Galaxy Black" edition Xbox Series X that, well, looks black like the original version. The cheaper consoles should help drive sales, though, which have been lagging behind competitors for some time now.
Check out the three new pieces of Xbox hardware and see what they look like in person.
Gears 6 is actually Gears of War: E-Day.
Long rumored for a reveal, the next Gears is actually a prequel. Gears of War: E-Day goes back to the early days of the Locust invasion, with a young Marcus Fenix.
WATCH TRAILER: Gears of War: E-Day
And that's a wrap for the main Xbox Showcase!
Now we have a Black Ops 6 direct giving a deep dive into the story, multiplayer, and other mechanics going into the game. In Black Ops 6, you'll need to unravel a nasty conspiracy unfolding within the American government itself.
Reactions to the Xbox Games Showcase 2024 seem to have been positive so far.
I am not easily impressed, especially by Xbox as of late, but that's the best showcase I've...ever seen from them?And to think it was even with zero Halo or Master Chief. My how things have changedJune 9, 2024
This is already the best summer games showcase in 5+ years. Microsoft has built a powerhouse content business which, based on this evidence, could finally be about to bloom. So many highlightsJune 9, 2024
The PC Gaming Show has begun!
The PC Gaming Show 2024 has kicked off and will feature, you guessed it, several games coming to PC in the near future. We'll be covering some of the most exciting titles right here so stick around! You can watch along here.
Ale Abbey is a game about brewing spirits in a...monastery?
Yup, you read that right. This silly base building colony sim from Hammer and Ravens is all about brewing tons and tons of alcohol in a monastery, and it looks quite fun. No release date right now, but you can wishlist it on Steam.
WATCH TRAILER: Ale Abbey
Fallen Aces is a crime noir FPS you can play next week
Trey Powell and Jason Bond's noir sprite-based FPS Fallen Aces looks incredibly stylish, and it appeared at the PC Gaming Show with a trailer. Its first episode will release next week on Friday 14; check the game out on Steam.
WATCH TRAILER: Fallen Aces
Stormgate's Celestial Armada faction revealed, with the RTS coming in August
Stormgate, a free-to-play next-gen RTS inspired by titles like Blizzard's StarCraft games, is getting an Early Access release on August 13. At the PC Gaming Show, its third faction, the Celestial Armada, was revealed alongside a new developer interview. Check it out on Steam!
WATCH TRAILER & INTERVIEW: Stormgate
FUMES celebrates the chaos of vehicular combat, and it's got a demo out now
One of the most interesting games shown so far at the PC Gaming Show is FUMES, a vehicular combat game with a low-poly, but Mad Max-y aesthetic and chaotic, fast-paced action. No release date yet, but it's launching into Early Access, and there's a demo on Steam you can play.
WATCH TRAILER: FUMES
The long-awaited Killing Floor 3 is coming in 2025, and looks amazing
Killing Floor 3, Tripwire Interactive's highly anticipated third entry in its beloved co-op zombie shooter franchise, got a sweet new gameplay trailer and developer interview during the PC Gaming Show. It's also got an official release window: early 2025. Lock and load and wishlist the game on Steam, too, because those Zeds are coming to Valve's platform, the Epic Games Store, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5.
WATCH TRAILER & INTERVIEW: Killing Floor 3
PC Game Pass gets a weird, but cute trailer
Microsoft's Xbox PC Game Pass service got an...interesting trailer during the PC Gaming Show, advertising its all-you-can-eat buffet-style structure.
WATCH TRAILER: PC Game Pass
Level Zero: Extraction's Open Beta goes live during the show!
Level Zero: Extraction is an upcoming multiplayer extraction shooter with a dark twist: you can play as humans as well as terrifying alien monsters in this sci-fi horror FPS. You'll face off against AI enemies as well as other players, and during the PC Gaming Show, developer DOGHOWL Games revealed that its Open Beta (available on Steam as a demo) is available to play now.
WATCH TRAILER: Level Zero: Extraction
Citizen Sleeper 2 is coming next year, and it'll be on Game Pass
Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector, the follow-up to 2022's popular cyberpunk RPG, got a new trailer that confirms an early 2025 release date during the PC Gaming Show. It's coming to PC, Xbox, and other platforms, and it's already been confirmed that it'll be playable on Xbox Game Pass.
WATCH TRAILER: Citizen Sleeper 2
No More Room in Hell 2 gets exclusive dev commentary, Early Access coming on Halloween
First revealed on Friday during the main Summer Game Fest show, Torn Banner Studios' No More Room in Hell 2 — the sequel to a series that started out as a Half-Life 2 mod — got an extra trailer with some exclusive developer commentary. This melee-focused zombie game from the makers of Chivalry 2 is launching into Early Access on Steam and the Epic Games Store on Halloween 2024.
WATCH TRAILER: No More Room in Hell 2
The Crush House is the world's first "Thirst Person Shooter" — here's what that means
One particularly unique-looking game from the PC Gaming Show was The Crush House, which creative director Nicole He called the world's first "Thirst Person Shooter." That's basically a funny way of saying you'll be playing as a producer for a reality TV show and will have the power to choose cast members, film all the drama that they get into, and more. It's coming out on August 9, but there's a Steam demo you can play now.
WATCH TRAILER: The Crush House
Eight years later, Escape from Tarkov is going gold with a 1.0 release
Escape from Tarkov — the game that first released in 2016 and pioneered the extraction shooter genre — is officially gearing up for a full 1.0 launch in the near future. The news was revealed today during the PC Gaming Show alongside a new trailer you can watch with the link below.
WATCH TRAILER: Escape from Tarkov
REKA, a game about building a walking house, hits Early Access in August and there's a demo now
A game that definitely caught my eye was REKA, a single player exploration game in which you build and customize a house that walks around with you. Notably, the game also draws heavily from Slavic folklore. It's coming to Steam in Early Access in August, but there's a free demo you can play now.
WATCH TRAILER: REKA
I'm still trying to wrap my head around Screenbound
Oh boy, now this is an interesting one. Below you'll find a link to a trailer for a puzzle game called Screenbound, in which you play as a human exploring a world while simultaneously controlling a 2D sprite character in a Game Boy-esque version of the same world. Your inputs affect both characters' movements, and while I'm still trying to wrap my head around how the game works, I definitely want to play it so I can figure it out. You can wishlist it now.
WATCH TRAILER: Screenbound
Dead Cells dev's new game, Windblown, is coming later this year
Windblown, the action roguelike from Dead Cells developer Motion Twin, got a new trailer during the PC Gaming Show. It's coming later this year on Steam Early Access, and you'll be able to play it co-op with two of your friends.
WATCH TRAILER: Windblown
And that's it for the PC Gaming Show!
Thanks for tuning into the PC Gaming Show with Team Windows Central! We've covered all the big highlights here, but don't forget you can watch (or rewatch) the whole show on YouTube to see every single game announced.
Also, make sure to head on over to the PC Gaming Show page on Steam, where you'll find the listings for every game shown today. Whether you're looking to check out free demos, preorder upcoming titles, or simply add games you think you'd enjoy to your Steam Wishlist, it's got all the pages you're looking for in one convenient spot.
Ubisoft Forward is about to begin!
We're down to the last official live stream of the Not-E3 season with Ubisoft Forward. As of right now, we know for certain that the broadcast will touch on Assassin's Creed Shadows, Star Wars Outlaws and XDefiant, but more games are likely going to be mentioned as well.
My name is Rebecca Spear and I'll be covering the biggest news from this live stream so stick around.
We're starting the live stream off with a look at Star Wars Outlaws gameplay
Ubisoft showed us what Star Wars Outlaws gameplay looks like both on a planet and in space during dog fights. A big part of Outlaws will be looking for experts to teach you new tricks. For instance, tracking down someone who can teach you new skills.
The fights you pick in space can affect your standing with various criminal syndicates for good or bad. So you'll have some influence on your reputation. We also got to see some stealth mechanics where protagonist, Kay Vess, sent her furry companion, Nix, out to jump on an opponent. Kay then socked the guy in the torso and took him down while he was blinded. It looks like this game will offer a great mixture of stealth and action.
Star Wars Outlaws releases on Aug. 30, 2024, but those who purchase the Ultimate edition or access the game via Ubisoft+ will gain three-days early access on Aug 27, 2024.
WATCH: Star Wars Outlaws gameplay trailer
XDefiant Season One announced with new features
We got to see a quick XDefiant Season One overview trailer letting us know about the new features coming to the game. There will be 3 new weapons, a new faction, one new map per month, a new capture the flag mode, various rewards, and more.
XDefiant Season One is coming July 2 and it's free to play on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC via Ubisoft Connect.
WATCH: XDefiant Season One trailer
We got a look at Skull and Bones Season 2 Chorus of Havoc
Skull and Bones Season 2 Chorus of Havoc is currently available. Two antagonists are out to cause trouble for you, but defeating them will reward you with some sweet loot. There's also a new ship called The Brig, which is fast and maneuverable, to help you get around better.
A new sea monster called The Megalodon - Lestari is also available for you to hunt and there's a new fleet management feature. Meanwhile, there are two new festive events — Summer Fiesta and Dragon's Regatta.
WATCH: Skull and Bones Season update trailer
Prince of Persia The Lost Crown is getting DLC as shown in this teaser
This is a free content update filled with divine trials, combat challenges, revised bosses, puzzle challenges, platform challenges, new amulets, new outfits, and more. Prince of Persia The Lost Crown - Mask of Darkness releases September 2024.
WATCH: Prince of Persia The Lost Crown Mask of Darkness trailer
More Prince of Persia news with The Rogue Prince of Persia Temple of Fire update
The side-scrolling game is getting a Temple of Fire update that will feature a new biome, new weapons, and more. This game is currently in early access with a "targeted 1.0 launch in 2025."
WATCH: The Rogue Prince of Persia The Temple of Fire update trailer
We finally got a new teaser trailer for the Prince of Persia Sands of Time remake
We now know that the Prince of Persia Sands of Time remake isn't slated to come out until 2026.
WATCH: Prince of Persia Sands of Time teaser trailer
Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is getting more content for the Season Pass
The trailer showed off gameplay for the upcoming The Sky Breaker Story Pack, which includes new battles, new bosses, and more. Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora - The Sky Breaker is coming July 16, 2024 and is available in the Season Pass.
WATCH: Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora - The Sky Breaker Story Pack trailer
The Crew Motorfeset: Chase Squad was revealed
This racing game showed off high-speed chases with flashy cars, sporty police vehicles, and... dogs that turn into cars... It's coming November 2024.
WATCH: The Crew Motorfest: Chase Squad reveal trailer
Anno 117: Pax Romana teaser trailer tells us the game is coming in 2025
A live action teaser trailer for Anno 117: Pax Romana showed a man giving an impassioned speech in various locations, but without anyone in attendance. The game is coming to Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and the Ubisoft Store sometime in 2025.
We also learned that, for the first time in an Anno game, you will be able to choose your starting providence in Pax Romana.
WATCH: Anno 117: Pax Romana teaser
Extended gameplay footage for upcoming Assassin's Creed Shadows shows what traveling around the world looks like
Ubisoft showed us several minutes of Assassin's Creed Shadows gameplay while following both Samurai Yasuke and Ninja-assassin Naoe. Combat looks pretty sleek and the environments shown are very detailed.
WATCH: Assassin's Creed Shadows extended gameplay trailer
That's a wrap for Ubisoft Forward. There are a bunch of exciting games in store!
We're officially at the end of the Not-E3 season with Ubisoft Forward 2024 being the endcap to this multi-day live stream event.
There are plenty of fun games on the way and hopefully you have at least one that you're really looking forward to. We at Windows Central will be here to provide guides and reviews for many of these titles, so check back soon.
