Category: Xbox News

Be afraid, be very afraid. The days are getting shorter, the nights darker and there’s a chill in the air that you just can’t shake. There’s no better time than now to face your fears and play that scary game you’ve been avoiding all year.

Because we know not everyone wants to dive into their fears head-on, we’ve put together a helpful game guide with our very own Spook-O-Meter, with five pumpkins being bone-chillingly scary to one pumpkin being a delightfully spooky and rambunctious time for even the littlest of monsters. Better yet, the games on this list are available to play with Xbox Game Pass on Xbox, PC or Android mobile devices with cloud gaming (beta). So, grab the candy bowl and get ready to enjoy some of the spookiest games that play best on Xbox. 

Don’t Play These Games Before Bed 🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃 

You run but you can’t escape the beast hunting you. Somewhere in the distance, you hear your friend’s blood curdling scream, and you know it’s coming. Heavy footsteps and the shrill sound of steel dragging on concrete linger behind you. You bolt up, your breath heavy, your sheets covered in sweat. Looking around your bedroom, you see there’s no one there… but you’re painfully aware of what could happen the next time you close your eyes. 

These Games Aren’t for the Faint of Heart🎃🎃🎃🎃 

You just can’t avoid the feeling you are being watched. The visions of grotesque monsters won’t leave your brain and you jump at the faintest of sounds. You check behind every door, look under the bed and peek behind the shower curtain—just to make sure no one is there. Is that a pair of eyes you see staring back? 

Games That Could Make You Afraid to Turn Out the Light 🎃🎃🎃 

Did you hear that noise? Maybe it was the wind. Maybe it was something—or someone—gently tapping on the wall outside your bedroom. Drip… drip…. drip…. Was that the bathroom sink leaking again or the sound of your heart beating in your head? Remember to pull the covers tight. Don’t want anything — or anyone — grabbing your feet as they dangle off the edge of the bed.  

Games That Might Make You Howl 🎃🎃 

Outside your window in the dark, twisting woods, you think you hear a noise. Your skin crawls when a faint howl sounds in the distance. What was that rustling in the brush? At least your friends are around—oh wait. 

These Games are a Little Bit Spooky and Perfect for Everyone🎃 

Cuddle up on the sofa or under the covers with a sweet treat and your Xbox controller. Just watch out for those pesky creepers and huge spiders behind every corner. And don’t worry about that smell of rotten eggs, it’s just a witch’s breath! 

If you’re looking for even more frightful fun, be sure to check out the Spooky Fall Event coming to Minecraft Dungeons! From October 26 through November 3, we’re diving into all things creepy and crawly that you don’t want to miss. The time-limited Seasonal Trials will bring new challenges, and with new challenges comes new rewards! The prizes for surviving these supernatural trials will be ultra-exclusive gear and weapons that are a must-have for this spooky season. 

We know you’re busy and might miss out on all the exciting things we’re talking about on Xbox Wire every week. If you’ve got a few minutes, we can help remedy that. We’ve pared down the past week’s news into one easy-to-digest article for all things Xbox! Or, if you’d rather watch than read, you can feast your eyes on our weekly video show above. Be sure to come back every Friday to find out what’s happening This Week on Xbox!

Xbox Touch Controls on Mobile Come to More Games, Giving You More Ways to Play
At Xbox we believe this era is all about the player, you are the future of gaming. We listen to what you – players, game developers, and content creators – tell us you want and based on your feedback… Read more

Ghostrunner Launches October 27 on Xbox One with Smart Delivery Support for Xbox Series X|S in 2021
Get ready! Owners of the Xbox One version of Ghostrunner will receive a free upgrade to the next-generation version on Xbox Series X|S when it releases in 2021 thanks to Smart Delivery! Pre-order today… Read more

Inside Xbox Series X Optimized: Yakuza: Like a Dragon
When it launches on November 10, Xbox Series X will be the most powerful console the world has ever seen. One of the biggest benefits of all that power is giving developers the ability to make games… Read more

Inside Xbox Series X Optimized: Maneater
One of the biggest benefits of all that power is giving developers the ability to make games that are Xbox Series X Optimized. This means that they’ve taken full advantage of the unique capabilities of… Read more

Watch Dogs: Legion Hacks the Microsoft Store to Save London
London is in a bit of a jam. Corrupt private military, authoritarian government, and an underground crime syndicate are preying on the vulnerable… alright, maybe a bit more than a jam… Read more

Celebrate the Joy of Chaos with Risk of Rain 2’s Free Content Update and New Low Price
One year, four free content updates, and over three million players later, Risk of Rain 2 has expanded significantly since it first arrived. New characters brought new ways to fight through the… Read more

Free Play Days – Fallout 76, UFC 4, and Destroy All Humans!
Embark on a new quest for the Overseer, submit your opponent in the cage, and take a giant step on mankind, all in this weekend’s Free Play Days. Fallout 76, UFC 4, and Destroy All Humans! are… Read more

Celebrate Fallout 76’s Bombs Drop Day with a Free Play Week, Sales, and In-Game Events!
It’s that time again! Time to remember the day the bombs dropped in Fallout, and what better way to do that with a host of Fallout 76 events. From October 20 through October 26, celebrate… Read more 

Secret Neighbor’s Major Halloween Update
If you’re new to Secret Neighbor, welcome to an ever-growing and constantly updated multiplayer social horror game. Communicate and cooperate with other players to sneak into the creepy… Read more

Manifold Garden Receives Free Xbox Series X|S Enhancement on November 10 with Smart Delivery
I’m incredibly excited to announce that Manifold Garden will receive a next-gen upgrade on Xbox Series X|S on November 10 when the consoles launch. Better yet, the upgrade is free to existing… Read more

Celebrate Halloween in Dead by Daylight
Let’s celebrate Halloween and much more in the latest update for Dead by Daylight! Players and fans will be happy to know that a whole lot is coming down the pipeline in Dead by Daylight this October… Read more

Puyo Puyo Tetris 2: The Ultimate Puzzle Match is Coming to Xbox Series X|S on December 8
Puzzle game fans, get ready to spin, drop, and strategize your way to victory in Puyo Puyo Tetris 2, coming to Xbox Series X|S on December 8. Whether you’re already a Puyo Puyo pro, a Tetris master… Read more

Cuddle Up and Get Ready for the ID@Xbox Cozy Game Sale
There has been a lot of internal debate here at Team ID@Xbox about what constitutes a “cozy game.” A game that you can play with your kids or friends? A game that has a feel-good aesthetic, mechanic… Read more 

Get Shadowy Vengeance in Fortnitemares 2020: Midas’ Revenge
You ever wanna get revenge on that enemy who eliminated you? In Fortnitemares 2020, running from October 21 to November 3 in Fortnite on Xbox One, now you can — thanks to the help… Read more

Talking Dynasty Warriors 9: Empires with Producer Akihiro Suzuki
Needless to say, Dynasty Warriors Producer Akihiro Suzuki knows a thing or two about the Three Kingdoms. He’s been working on the Dynasty Warriors series since the historically-based franchise’s birth… Read more

HyperBrawl Tournament: The Multiplayer Sports Brawler is Available Now on Xbox One
Hey HyperBrawlers, I’m Scott Swarbrick, Designer at Milky Tea Studios, and I’m here to provide you with some pro tips, directly from the development team, to help you secure those epic wins in… Read more

Big Day for Indian Culture – Raji: An Ancient Epic Available Now
We are happy to announce that our award-winning action-adventure Raji: An Ancient Epic is available now on Xbox One! Our game is steeped in ancient Indian folklore, artwork, and music. Players… Read more

Rocket League’s Haunted Hallows Limited Time Event Celebrates Ghostbusters
Get your Proton Packs ready, because Rocket League is bringing Ghostbusters to this year’s Haunted Hallows event! Starting tomorrow at 9 a.m. PDT (4 p.m. UTC), complete Event Challenges to… Read more

Your War Continues… Doom Eternal: The Ancient Gods – Part One is Here
The universe stands at the brink of destruction and the only savior up to the task carries a double-barrel shotgun and a whole lotta contempt for demons. Become the legendary Doom Slayer and strike… Read more

A Walk Over the Pumpkin Patch: How Pumpkin Jack the Game Came About
A long time ago I was looking for a game to play. Something colorful offering a great single-player experience. After a long time of searching I couldn’t find what I was looking for. 3D combat platformers… Read more.

Coming Soon to Xbox Game Pass for Console & Android: Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege
Hey, Operators, new step in your preparation phase: rebuild your “to play” gaming list because Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege is coming to Console with Xbox Game Pass and cloud gaming on… Read more

Next Week on Xbox: October 27 to 30
Welcome to Next Week on Xbox, where we cover all the new games coming soon to Xbox One and Windows 10 PC! Every week the team at Xbox aims to deliver quality gaming content for you… Read more

A long time ago I was looking for a game to play. Something colorful offering a great single-player experience. After a long time of searching I couldn’t find what I was looking for. 3D combat platformers were my favorite genre during my childhood days, but unfortunately this kind of genre was pretty scarce on PC.

At some point I had a crazy idea: Why not create my own game? I was young and I had no idea how easy or hard this would be. Everything started with a simple search on the internet: “How to make games?”. Sounds a bit cliché? Yeah, you may be right, but that’s how the endlessly long learning process began.

The first idea was to make a scarecrow controlling other crows. True, it’s a stereotype. But hey, that’s where everything began. I learned the creation of 3D models, tinkered my first scarecrow, taught myself how to animate it and integrated everything into the Unreal Engine. After I had learned that too, of course. All in all, this took me one week! The following steps: I created more animations to let the scarecrow attack and made some monsters to have enemies to fight against.

After working on this for some months, I canceled the project again. It was not good enough. I started all over again with my newly learned skills, and it worked way better. But I canceled it again, remade it, canceled it again, and again, and again… I restarted the project six times until I was happy with Curse of The Scarecrow (at this point the game was not called Pumpkin Jack). I set high standards for my own work, so it was hard to be satisfied with my work.

Two long years later, I released a demo on Itch.io. I had not expected much from it, but it was freaking successful! It was then that I thought for the first time that this demo could be the basis for a successful game. There was a lot of feedback from YouTubers, streamers and even publishers – and everyone was interested in my game. I could not really believe it at the time.

Back then I put everything on one card and decided to quit my job to work full time on Curse of The Scarecrow. People seemed to like my game, and so I wanted to spend more time on it. And to give the players out there the best possible gaming experience, I re-started the development once again. That was the moment when Curse of The Scarecrow died and Pumpkin Jack was born.

I won over a publisher for Pumpkin Jack and from this point on I worked with the guys from the Germany-based publisher Headup who helped me out and made this game possible. So, the moral of this story: You yourself are responsible for making your dreams come true.

Pumpkin Jack

Headup

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$29.99 $23.99

Xbox One X Enhanced

Pumpkin Jack is a Spooky Scary 3D platformer in which you embody Jack, the Mythical Pumpkin Lord! Dive into an Epic Adventure through otherworldly landscapes and help the Evil annihilate the Good! Dive into an Epic Adventure and help the Evil annihilate the Good! Follow the will of the Devil himself and slay your nemesis in an epic quest that will take you on a journey in the Boredom Kingdom, a mythical realm shattered by the Curse. You will meet friends along the way, from a haughty Owl to a snarky Crow! Discover Stunning atmospheres in a Colorful yet Spooky Scary Kingdom Travel through epic and dramatic settings, with each level having its own eerie atmosphere. Using a vibrant palette and high quality lighting effects, Pumpkin Jack invents its own unique cartoon universe inspired by the classic PS2 graphic style. Jump, Run & Climb to carve your own way in Unique Levels Pumpkin Jack is a classic 3D Platformer before anything else! Every level will challenge you through several themed platforms, all giving you new trials to complete. Fight for your life against Evil Beasts by using awesome Unlockable Weapons You will have to master the arts of dodging, timing and movement to vanquish Jack’s foes. During the dynamic real time battles, choose which weapon you want to use and strike at the critical moment! Face Breathtaking Challenges and discover tons of Original Gameplays Solve puzzles that focus on physics, gravity and reflection. Inhabit a pumpkin head and burn books, hammer some moles, create a path for magic spheres… But also more! In each level, you will be faced with an action sequence using a new exclusive gameplay!

One of the biggest benefits of all that power is giving developers the ability to make games that are Xbox Series X Optimized. This means that they’ve taken full advantage of the unique capabilities of Xbox Series X, both for new titles built natively using the Xbox Series X development environment as well as previously released titles that have been rebuilt specifically for the console. In our Inside Xbox Series X Optimized series, these creators will share the behind-the-scenes accounts of how they’re optimizing their titles for Xbox Series X and what that means for the future of gaming. Today, we’ll be chatting with David Amata, Product Director, Maneater Next-Gen at Tripwire Interactive about optimizing Maneater for Xbox Series X.

Q: What excites you most about developing and bringing Maneater to life on next-generation hardware?

A: The speed of the SSD inside the Xbox Series X cannot be understated. It has allowed us the freedom to make the world of Maneater even more visually impressive, helped us cut down on load times, and even helped to increase the draw distance.

Q: In addition to benefiting from the power and performance of Xbox Series X for quicker load times etc. what Xbox Series X features were you most excited to explore leveraging in the development of Maneater?

A: Bringing ray tracing to Maneater has been a huge effort for us when prioritizing features for the next-gen upgrade. We’re incredibly proud of the amazing water simulation in Maneater, and adding ray traced reflections and refractions (via post-launch patch) really adds another layer to make the water appear even more lifelike.

Q: How will these enhancements impact a player’s experience with Maneater?

A: The combination of technical and visual enhancements will make the overall experience of playing Maneater even more immersive than it already is. The draw distances are farther, load times are shorter, light behaves in brand new ways, and much more.

Q: Why did you choose to focus on increased resolution and 120 FPS, as enhancement areas for Maneater?

A: When it came time to figure out what we could achieve for Maneater Next-Gen, we decided to prioritize 4K HDR and ray tracing at a steady 60 FPS. We knew that these visual enhancements would pair extremely well with what we had already released on current-gen and we wanted to be one of the first out of the gate with a game that will look gorgeous on the new hardware.

Q: How do you expect fans of Maneater will respond to playing it on Xbox Series X with these enhancements?

A: Fans of the game love the world of Maneater so much, and have spent so many hours exploring every corner. With a brand new coat of paint, we’re hoping that fans will fall in love with the world all over again.

Q: What is it like developing on Xbox Series X?

A: It’s been exciting to be able to leverage the powerful new hardware to enable things like Ray Tracing and 60 fps that just weren’t possible in the current generation of consoles. Fortunately, gaining access to that increased power has been a relatively seamless experience as our existing development tools and pipeline were compatible with the new hardware. This allowed us to get the game running natively on the new hardware very quickly.

Q: Which enhancement were you most excited about to explore leveraging for Maneater on Xbox Series X?

A: Playing the game at a smooth 60 FPS on Console with 4K and higher fidelity assets is truly the way the game was meant to be played. So we’re excited to be able to bring the definitive version of the game to the new generation. Additionally the work we’re implementing for HDR and Ray Traced Water Reflections and Refractions adds a level of detail and information that transforms the lighting into something much more vibrant and realistic.

Q: What does Smart Delivery mean for your game and how you’re bringing Maneater to fans?

A: Smart Delivery is such an amazing feature that really puts the players first in a way that previous generations haven’t. Being able to guarantee that our game will upgrade along with the players’ upgrade to an Xbox Series X is such a great innovation that ensures we won’t be nickel and diming our fans while we continue to grow Maneater’s fanbase with its next-gen version. With Smart Delivery, everybody wins.

Q: What does Xbox Series X/next-generation development enable in current or future projects that you could not have achieved with the current generation of consoles?

A: The sheer power and capability of this new generation has raised the bar on our limitations with consoles. A lot of times we have to sacrifice some amazing ideas for our games because they simply can’t be implemented with the current gen hardware. Now, more than ever, we’re extremely excited to start fully realizing our vision for what’s coming next from Tripwire.

If you’re new to Secret Neighbor, welcome to an ever-growing and constantly updated multiplayer social horror game. Communicate and cooperate with other players to sneak into the creepy basement and learn your Neighbor’s dark secrets. The twist? Someone in your group is the Neighbor in disguise, so trust no one!

This Fall, as usual on Halloween, the Secret Neighbor is getting a major update that adds new features to the Xbox One version: the new Neighbor class add an extra layer of challenge in the game; a darker visual presentation and Halloween decorations deliver a spooky experience to the players, and gift customization for everyone who’s going to celebrate the anniversary with us. Alongside with that, the new major update contains a plenty of quality of life improvements as well as some new content for players to enjoy.

The new Neighbor class and dark Halloween atmosphere

The new Neighbor moves in town, and now the Neighbor players have more choice on how to deal with the intruders. There are a few interesting details about the new class. The Butcher can hunt down other players by following their footsteps, and grab the players with his grappling hook. Apart from that, the new Neighbor class is able to fake the key marker and ambush other players from dark corners.

The next big update, to no-one’s surprise, is Halloween-themed. It’s not just the scary decor and pumpkins – we’re significantly changing the game’s visual presentation. The game is getting a bit darker, and the reasoning behind it is two-fold. Gameplay-wise, it would make a Neighbor’s life a bit easier, with his various traps and other shenanigans being harder to spot. Another reason is to take an advantage of the flashlights and play hide and seek in the dark.

Quality of life improvements and new content

We’re improving the performance a lot in the Halloween update to let you have the pleasant in-game experience across all Xbox One devices family. We’re also taking time to improve the balance in the game and fix some glitches that you’ve been reported to us.

The new update includes all three maps: The Neighbor case, Return of the Guest, and The Storm is Coming. And of course, no update is complete without new fun skins, and Halloween 2020 is no exception.

We’re treating our players to some additional free customization this Halloween because this is Secret Neighbor’s first birthday! We really appreciate you being with us this year, and want to give you something valuable. Every day, starting from October 26 through November 2, you will find a new free customization item in our store.

Whether you’re a new or experienced player, Secret Neighbor major update is sure to bring you goosebumps on this Halloween. Get ready!

Secret Neighbor

tinyBuild

☆☆☆☆☆ 262

★★★★★

Xbox Game Pass

A group of kids are trying to break into their suspicious Neighbor’s basement to rescue their missing friend. Only problem is that one of the kids is a traitor – a Secret Neighbor in disguise. His job is to gain the trust of other players and betray them. Kids win if they get into the basement. Playing as a child: – Collect keys
– Save you friends from the Neighbor
– Cooperate but don`t trust anyone If you are lucky enough to play as Neighbor: – The house is your territory! Use it to separate, scare and confuse intruders.
– Use your gadgets to get advantage over the kids’ team.
– Gain trust amongst your foes and attack in the right moment.
– Protect your basement!

Let’s celebrate Halloween and much more in the latest update for Dead by Daylight! Players and fans will be happy to know that a whole lot is coming down the pipeline in Dead by Daylight this October.

The Archives – Tome 5: Unleashed

A new Archive entry has arrived. Dead by Daylight’s latest addition to the game, Tome 5 Unleashed, will be available to players on October 21.  

This Tome allows players to unlock memories for The Hillbilly, Nea Karlsson, and The Blight. The Blight’s story is explored deeper as players have access to the conclusion of the original Hallowed Blight event storyline from 2018, as well as all past Hallowed Blight lore content.

For the first time since The Archives’ inception, a brand new challenge type is introduced: the Pustula Plants. This fowl flora infects the body and mind and mutates the host until they are under the control of the plant. Once selected in the Auris Web, players will have to work with the plants to complete the challenge.  

Within the Tome, players will be able to earn 4 progressively growing Pustula Plant Charms across the 4 levels. Players will also enjoy 30% off the price of Auric Cells on characters Adam Francis and The Clown between October 21 and October 28 to celebrate the release.  

The Realm Beyond Graphical Update 

Dead by Daylight is currently getting a complete re-mastery of its graphics. Over the course of the following year, with each new chapter, we will add a content drop featuring graphically updated levels, lighting, animations, etc. This way, as players and fans inch closer to our game’s5^th anniversary in 2021, the game will continue to look and feel better than ever as new patches release with our regularly scheduled content updates.  

Specifically, DbD will have more realistic modeling and texturing, related to and informed by character and narrative. Also, lighting and VFX improvements that make for a more immersive experience. Blood in the moonlight looks a certain way – these details matter! 

Players can anticipate more environmental elements in the Killing Grounds, resulting in more immersive maps. Rooms themselves will possess a proper function and will therefore be more identifiable and informative to the player. It becomes easier for the player to understand and interact with their environment when the environment’s function reads clearly.  

Finally, all these elements and upgrades come together and emerge with an emphasis on mood and ambience that serves to make the game more immersive for both Killers and Survivors.  

It will be an ambitious year for DbD, but with our undying player base and our talented team of developers, it will be a new era of Dead by Daylight on an all-new generation of tech, and we couldn’t be more excited to exceed ourselves.  

In the most recent update, we’re revisiting the 5 very iconic maps of the McMillan Estate, the original realm of the Trapper! Do you have what it takes to venture there?

The Eternal Blight 

Starting now and running until November 4, players can enjoy an all-new Halloween in-game event called The Eternal Blight. This event features new Survivor and Killer add-ons including the very first universal Killer add-on: a dangerous chemical compound called the Blight Serum that allows Killers to use the power, Blighted Rush, after hooking Survivors. Players can also look forward to getting their hands on 4 unique Halloween-themed charms. Finally, players would be remiss not to take advantage of the giant Halloween sale on outfits in the in-game store.  

Dead by Daylight: Special Edition

Behaviour Digital Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆ 473

★★★★★

Xbox Game Pass

Death Is Not an Escape. Dead by Daylight is a multiplayer (4vs1) horror game where one player takes on the role of the savage Killer, and the other four players play as Survivors, trying to escape the Killer and avoid being caught, tortured and killed. Survivors play in third-person and have the advantage of better situational awareness. The Killer plays in first-person and is more focused on their prey. The Survivors’ goal in each encounter is to escape the Killing Ground without getting caught by the Killer – something that sounds easier than it is, especially when the environment changes every time you play.

Needless to say, Dynasty Warriors Producer Akihiro Suzuki knows a thing or two about the Three Kingdoms. He’s been working on the Dynasty Warriors series since the historically-based franchise’s birth, helping grow the 1 vs. 1,000 game into a global brand, while helping celebrate the original game’s 20^th anniversary at TGS with the surprise news of the forthcoming Dynasty Warriors 9: Empires. I caught up with Suzuki to find out more about this action-strategy game hitting Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S in early 2021.

Jon Robinson, Public Relations, Koei Tecmo America: Dynasty Warriors: 9 Empires marks the fourth Xbox system the franchise has been on. Walk us through the highlights of how each new Xbox system has allowed you to do more with the game.

Akihiro Suzuki, Producer, Dynasty Warriors 9: Empires: With the specs improving with each successive generation, we have been able to greatly increase the chaotic enemy actions that is a key element to what makes the series fun. At the same time, the increase in processing speed used to control the AI of the various troops that appear on the battlefield has allowed us to simulate a more realistic battlefield.

Robinson: What graphical upgrades can gamers expect to see in Empires on the Xbox Series X|S?

Suzuki: There will be improvements on the Xbox Series X|S versions in the visual quality, framerate stability, and crowded chaotic gameplay.

Robinson: The Dynasty Warriors franchise has been around for over 20 years now. What is it about this franchise that people keep coming back for?

Suzuki: I think that one of the reasons is that we have been able to retain and deliver the series concept of “the exhilaration of 1 vs 1,000” throughout while adding new features into each new game. There are features such as new actions and new game modes, but the addition of new characters allow us to show new episodes from the Three Kingdoms story and their relationships with existing characters, has allowed us to bring forth new drama to the storytelling in each game.

Robinson: As a history fan, have your opinions of certain characters in the games changed throughout the years as you learn more behind the real men featured as characters in your games?

Suzuki: My opinion has changed about Sima Yi. In the early games, I had the impression that as a rival to Zhuge Liang, he was a supporting character. But not only did he have many military exploits, he was victorious in the faction within Wei, and lived through the Three Kingdoms era to create the foundation of the Jin dynasty, so now I think that he is a hero that rivals Cao Cao.

Robinson: How is the Empires gaming experience different than the experience of playing a typical Dynasty Warriors game?

Suzuki: It combines the simple controls and 1 vs 1000 exhilaration of the Musou action of the DW series, and the tactical strategy elements of conquering territories. Players can enjoy weaving together their very own Three Kingdoms.

Robinson: What can you tell us about the game’s evolved battle system?

Suzuki: The battles have changed compared to past games, and now the area around a castle used as the battlegrounds to conquer the castle has evolved into siege battles. Since the high-stakes situation changes constantly, players should make use of various strategies and their forces in the pursuit of capturing enemy castles. I hope everyone enjoys this new style of battle.

Robinson: How will the character relations influence gameplay?

Suzuki: It will impact the effect of strategies and abilities in battle. Also, becoming sworn siblings or spouses will influence the in-game events and ending.

Robinson: What can we expect from the expanded character creator?

Suzuki: The facial editing will allow for more customization compared to previous Empires games, and it’s similar to Nioh 2’s Character Creation. In editing body parts, it has been a system where the upper body, lower body, arms and feet could be changed, but in this game, we added a new feature. While I can’t talk about the specific details yet, I hope that you can imagine what is possible from the screenshots released showing off the character creator.

Robinson: What is your favorite type of character to create to rule the Three Kingdoms?

Suzuki: I create a lot of characters from the Three Kingdoms story. Using tales and legends of those characters as the base, I then come up with the parts that are lacking as I create the characters. It’s also fun to create family members of DW characters, such as Lu Xun’s son Lu Kang, and Ling Tong’s father Ling Cao. Also, I always create King Wutugu.

Hey Xbox Insiders! We have a new Xbox One update preview coming to the Delta ring. It’s important we note that some updates made in these preview OS builds include background improvements that ensure a quality and stable build for Xbox One.

We continue to post these release notes, even when the noticeable changes to the UI are minimal, so you’re aware when updates are coming to your device. Details can be found below!

System Update Details:

• OS version released: RS_XBOX_RELEASE_2010\19041.5008.201015-0000
• Available: 2 p.m. PT – October 19, 2020
• Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – October 20, 2020

Fixes Implemented

Thanks to the hard work of Xbox engineers, we are happy to announce the following fixes have been implemented for this build:

System

• Various system and stability fixes.

Known Issues

We understand some issues have been listed in previous Xbox Insider Release Notes. These items aren’t being ignored, but it will take Xbox engineers more time to find a solution.

We’re still tracking these known issues:

Audio

• Some users have reported that Dolby Atmos for Headphones audio setting changes when the console is rebooted/updated.
  • Note: If you attempt to set the audio to Dolby Atmos for Headphones and see a message advising you to launch the Dolby Access App, please file feedback before launching the app.
• We are receiving reports of users stating the console has no audio or low audio levels with recent updates.
  • Note: If you are seeing this behavior, please submit feedback immediately when you notice the behavior. Also, please ensure you don’t have any audio settings that could be affecting your volume like the chat mixer.

Guide

• We are investigating reports of the audio mixer being unable to adjust chat/game audio levels.
• There are reports from users that the Guide not launching or loading.

My Games & Apps

• Users have reported seeing black tiles instead of game artwork when browsing their collection.
  • Note: We are still investigating the issue, please report the issue again from the console if you have done so with a prior update and are still seeing this behavior.
• Some users are reporting seeing the Mixer app in their collection and being unable to remove/uninstall it. The issue is being investigated.
• Some titles in collection may appear with a “trial” tag incorrectly in collection.

Parties

• Some users have reported being unable to create or join parties.

Profile Color

• Sometimes users may encounter the incorrect Profile color when powering on the console.

Make sure to use Report a problem to keep us informed of your issue. We may not be able to respond to everyone, but the data we’ll gather is crucial to finding a resolution.

How to Get Xbox Insider Support

If you’re an Xbox Insider looking for support, please reach out to the community subreddit. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are there to help with your concerns.

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We know you’re busy and might miss out on all the exciting things we’re talking about on Xbox Wire every week. If you’ve got a few minutes, we can help remedy that. We’ve pared down the past week’s news into one easy-to-digest article for all things Xbox! Or, if you’d rather watch than read, you can feast your eyes on our weekly video show above. Be sure to come back every Friday to find out what’s happening This Week on Xbox!

30 Games Fully Optimized on Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S Launch Day
The launch of a new generation of games is the culmination of epic creative and technical endeavors from developers around the globe, all focused on a single goal: delivering immersive new experiences and rich new worlds to explore… Read more 

Five Major Improvements That Come to Life in NHL 21, Available Today on Xbox One
The Tampa Bay Lightning have hoisted the cup, and an unprecedented NHL season has come to a close… but on the virtual ice, the puck is just about to drop — EA Sports NHL 21 launches today on Xbox One! The team at EA Sports is excited to recognize creativity… Read more

Remembering The Classics: The Xbox Podcast Featuring Tim Schafer
The Legendary Tim Schafer stops by the Xbox Podcast and talks with Major Nelson about the Classic LucasArts Remasters coming to Xbox Game Pass. As part of today’s show, Tim confirmed that the Classic LucasArts Remasters are coming October 29… Read more

A Look at the Visual Style and Animation in 9 Monkeys of Shaolin
Hello everyone! I’m Mikhail and I am the creative director and animator at Sobaka Studio. Our new game 9 Monkeys of Shaolin just released on Xbox One and because of that, I would like to share some interesting details of its development with you… Read more

Pre-order Planet Coaster: Console Edition, Coming November 10
Hey there, coaster fans! I’m Lloyd Morgan-Moore, Producer on Planet Coaster: Console Edition, and today I want to share a very exciting update. Starting today, you’ll be able to pre-order Planet Coaster: Console Edition which arrives on Xbox One… Read more

The Beasts Are Unleashed! Monster Tanks Return to World of Tanks This Halloween
It’s that time of year when darkness creeps across the battlefield and a chill wind rattles through our tankers’ Garages. Prepare yourself, all you tankers of the night… Halloween is coming to World of Tanks! If you couldn’t tell, Halloween is one of our favorite times… Read more

Unlocking the Mysteries of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla’s Britain
The Assassin’s Creed franchise has been on quite a roll in recent years. Assassin’s Creed Origins and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey were two of the most well-received entries in the franchise’s history, offering up something for new players and AC stalwarts alike… Read more

Physics Puzzler Mørkredd Coming Soon to Xbox Game Pass
We’re so excited to announce that Mørkredd, an innovative co-op puzzler, is coming exclusively to Xbox Series X and Xbox Game Pass this December. Mørkredd is the Norwegian word for fear of the dark, and you’ll have to use light and shadow to solve puzzles… Read more

Grounded – Optimized Features for Xbox Series X and Series S
The Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S launches in less than a month and the team at Obsidian Entertainment are preparing a special update for Grounded. For existing players or those that are about to take their first thrilling step into the backyard, Grounded will be… Read more

Earn Spooky New Rewards in Overwatch Halloween Terror, Now Live on Xbox One
It’s time to return to the fright – Overwatch Halloween Terror is back! Group up for a limited time to earn chilling new cosmetics and take on a spine-tingling new version of Junkenstein’s Revenge! Don’t get petrified, because Overwatch Halloween Terror ends on… Read more

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition Out Now Worldwide!
Today’s the day! Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition is available worldwide with Xbox Game Pass for PC, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Windows 10 and Steam! I’m still amazed that it’s been only three years since we announced the first Definitive Edition… Read more

Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition Achievements Revealed
On October 15, real time strategy fans can experience the latest chapter from one of the most beloved real-time strategy franchises with Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition, a modernized classic with enhanced features and updated gameplay. Get ready to take… Read more

Free Play Days – Warface: Breakout, The Escapists 2, and AO Tennis 2
Be the ultimate mercenary of tomorrow, plan your great escape, and smash an ace from the baseline all with this weekend’s Free Play Days. Warface: Breakout, The Escapists 2, and AO Tennis 2 are available for Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate… Read more

Find New Love in Monster Prom: XXL, Available Now on Xbox One
Hello and welcome to Spooky High! If you thought the high school dating scene was tough already, wait until you try wooing these boos. This is my way of telling you that, when you try to romance monsters, there are far scarier things to worry about than… Read more

October Xbox Update Rolls Out Broadly with A New Fresh Look, Profile Themes and More
The October Xbox update rolls out this week, bringing a set of exciting changes to Xbox One consoles now, as well as Xbox Series X|S at launch on November 10. Fans will immediately notice a brand-new look and feel, making their consoles feel fresh and more… Read more

The Making of Red Wings: Aces of the Sky
As a teenager, I spent a lot of time playing arcade games and airplane shooters. Now, as the genre moves towards realistic simulations, I miss games that would allow me to recreate the sensation of playing old-school Sega games and arcade machines and I think… Read more

The Exclusive Xbox Gamer’s Expedited Guide to Gear for Torchlight III, Available Now on Xbox One
The Torchlight series has always been known for its great gear and Torchlight III is no exception. In this blog, we’ll dive into the world of Armor & Weapons in Torchlight III, so that you can be better prepared for combat… Read more

G.I. Joe: Operation Blackout Looks to the ’80s for Inspiration
The G.I. Joe brand has been around since the early ’60s and has taken on many different forms. Sometimes the members of the G.I. Joe team look like your typical military soldier in familiar camouflage, sometimes they look more like Channing Tatum…. Read more

Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S Will Be the Best Place to Play 1000s of Games From Across Four Generations of Xbox
As gamers, we know how important it is to preserve and respect your gaming legacy. We believe your favorite games and franchises, your progression and achievements, your Xbox One gaming accessories and the friendships and communities you create through… Read more

Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War Open Beta: Pre-load Today on Xbox One
Prepare to drop into the Crossplay Beta with this guide that includes redemption instructions for Early Access and pre-load info. During the beta, experience signature Black Ops combat across traditional 6v6 modes, 12v12 Combined Arms, and a brand-new… Read more

Summon Your Courage in Fortnite’s Marvel Knockout Super Series and Suit Up as Daredevil
From the Rift emerges a new Marvel Hero, arriving not only to defeat Galactus but to commence a test of courage. The Fortnite Nexus War ushers in the Marvel Knockout Super Series, four competitive cups featuring the Marvel Knockout Limited Time Mode… Read more

Announcing Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate, Available November 17 on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One
Hello! Today I’m writing to tell you about Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate, the all-in-one compilation of everything Mortal Kombat 11 has to offer. So, what is Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate? This package is the main game plus Kombat Pack 1, the Aftermath Expansion, and… Read more

Coming Soon to Xbox Game Pass for Console and PC: Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition, Cricket 19, Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition, and More
We have new games, we have classics, we’ve even got games on your consoles, on your PCs and on your Android devices. It’s not literally raining games (because that would hurt), but what I’m saying is that there are a lot of games… Read more

FIFA 21 is Available Now on Xbox One
The time has come. EA Sports FIFA 21 is out now on Xbox One! In the latest version of FIFA, all your favorite modes are back, with some brand-new additions to get excited about. Express yourself with your mates and win as one on the street and in the stadiums…. Read more

Next Week on Xbox: October 20 to 23
Welcome to Next Week on Xbox, where we cover all the new games coming soon to Xbox One and Windows 10 PC! Every week the team at Xbox aims to deliver quality gaming content for you to enjoy on your favorite gaming console and PC. Get more details… Read more

The Legendary Tim Schafer stops by the Xbox Podcast and talks with Major Nelson about the Classic LucasArts Remasters coming to Xbox Game Pass.

As part of today’s show, Tim confirmed that the Classic LucasArts Remasters are coming October 29 to Xbox and Windows 10 PC with Xbox Game Pass. Fans will be able to play three beloved LucasArts adventure games – Grim Fandango Remastered, Day of the Tentacle Remastered, and Full Throttle Remastered – in their revitalized glory.

If you haven’t experienced these 1990s classics before, you have a lot of laughs and feelings to look forward to on October 29:

• Originally released by LucasArts in 1993 as a sequel to Ron Gilbert’s ground breaking Maniac Mansion, Day of the Tentacle is a mind-bending, time travel, cartoon puzzle adventure game in which three unlikely friends work together to prevent an evil mutated purple tentacle from taking over the world!
• Originally released by LucasArts in 1995, Full Throttle is a classic graphic adventure game from industry legend Tim Schafer, telling the story of Ben Throttle; butt-kicking leader of biker gang the Polecats, who gets caught up in a tale of Motorcycles, Mayhem, and Murder.
• One of the most acclaimed adventure games of all time is now back, better than ever. Grim Fandango‘s epic story of four years in the after-life of Manny Calavera, travel agent to the dead, has been remastered to look, sound, and control even better than when it won countless awards and was considered one of the best games of the year upon its original launch. Grim Fandango still stands as a classic of the genre, with unforgettable characters and unique combination of film noir and Mexican folklore.

If you’re not an Xbox Game Pass member but would like access to these three titles and over 100 high-quality games, new members can join Xbox Game Pass Ultimate today for $1 for the first month, then $14.99 per month after that. Each game is also available for individual purchase at $14.99 USD.

Stay tuned to Xbox Wire for more on future fine Double Fine games like Psychonauts 2 and others.

_{Edited to correct an erroneous item about Android availability. The Classic LucasArts Remasters will release with Xbox Game Pass on Xbox One and Windows 10 PC}.