11-11-2018, 05:29 AM
Everything the Xbox team announced at X018
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<p>This weekend, the Xbox community came together to take part in X018, a global celebration of all things Xbox filled with news, first looks, and plenty of surprises. More than 10,000 fans joined us at the fourth-annual Xbox FanFest: Mexico City to get a closer look at the future of Xbox through hands-on events and panels featuring members of Team Xbox, streamed live on Inside Xbox.</p>
<p>The big news of the day was the announcement that two game development studios with storied histories will join Microsoft Studios to create exclusive games for Xbox fans. Coupled with the five new studio partners we announced at E3, the future of Xbox exclusives is looking bright.</p>
<p>X018 showcased a lineup of upcoming titles with something for every gamer, including a first-look at <em>Crackdown 3’s</em> multiplayer mode, and new content from <em>Just Cause 4</em>, <em>Sea of Thieves</em>, <em>State of Decay 2</em>, and many more. What’s more, we’ve now got over 327 titles enhanced for Xbox One X, the world’s most powerful console. From exclusive blockbusters like <em>Forza Horizon 4</em> to holiday standouts like <em>Fallout 76</em>, there’s no denying the biggest games of the holiday season play best on Xbox One.</p>
<p>Xbox also revealed deep console and game discounts for the holidays, as well as access to more than 100 games for one low monthly price through Xbox Game Pass – the best value in gaming. The team announced a number of awesome new titles coming to Xbox Game Pass soon, including hits like <em>PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG).</em></p>
<p>So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at today’s big news:</p>
<p><strong>Obsidian Entertainment and inXile Entertainment Join Microsoft Studios </strong></p>
<p>As part of our commitment to bringing a steady stream of new, exclusive games to our fans, Matt Booty announced Microsoft’s intent to acquire two game development studios – Obsidian Entertainment and inXile Entertainment. The teams at Obsidian and inXile share a distinguished reputation for creating deep, engaging role-playing games. As part of Microsoft Studios, Obsidian and inXile will have the support and freedom to fully realize creative ambitions on both existing franchises and new projects. These two creative teams will continue to operate autonomously and bring their unique talents, IP and expertise to Microsoft Studios as they build new RPG experiences for our players and fans. You can learn more about Obsidian Entertainment and inXile Entertainment in <a href="https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2018/11/10/obsidian-inxile-join-microsoft-studios/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">our full announcement post here</a>.<strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Crackdown 3 Announces Xbox Game Pass Launch on February 15 with Explosive Debut of Wrecking Zone Multiplayer</strong></p>
<p>X018 provided a <a href="https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2018/11/10/crackdown-3-x018-wrecking-zone/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">first look at the over-the-top antics and explosive gameplay of <em>Crackdown 3’s</em> Wrecking Zone</a>, an all-new multiplayer mode where environmental destruction is your secret weapon to take down your enemies. Developed by Microsoft Studios in collaboration with Sumo Digital and Elbow Rocket, <em>Crackdown 3</em> will bring super-powered Agents to New Providence, an action-packed open-world, to take down a criminal corporation using an explosive set of weapons and abilities. Step up your boom in the campaign on your own or with a friend to unleash cooperative mayhem when <em>Crackdown 3</em> launches on February 15, 2019. <em>Crackdown 3</em> is available at launch with <a href="https://www.xbox.com/en-US/xbox-game-pass">Xbox Game Pass</a> and globally on <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/crackdown-3-for-xbox-one/910r7jk0pwtb">Xbox One</a> and <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/crackdown-3-for-xbox-one/910r7jk0pwtb">Windows 10</a>.</p>
<p>As a special thanks to our fans, and to celebrate our X018 announcements, we will be offering the original <em>Crackdown </em>to all fans free of charge from now until November 30th. Experience the original now with Xbox One X enhancements. Head to the <a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fp%2Fcrackdown%2Fc3vnjhhd7mm4%3FCustomerIntent%3DConsumer%26SilentAuth%3D1%26activetab%3Dpivot%253Aoverviewtab&data=02%7C01%7CStephen.Ludlow%40assemblyinc.com%7C68ff38423d8e4df7ff3a08d645095a79%7Cb824bfb3918e43c2bb1cdcc1ba40a82b%7C0%7C0%7C636772303808316211&sdata=PICHu7jLHG%2FfYzJcfaVlW8%2FjI4uj9blagNVb4gZfIcs%3D&reserved=0">Microsoft Store</a> now to get your copy!</p>
<p><strong>The Hits Keep on Coming with Xbox Game Pass</strong></p>
<p>Today, Microsoft announced the general availability of the Xbox Game Pass app on iOS and Android, enabling you to seamlessly browse and download new games to your home console via your mobile device, so you can quickly jump into gameplay the next time you turn on your Xbox One. We are also excited to continue to expand and diversify the Xbox Game Pass catalog by making the popular blockbuster title <em>PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) </em>available to all members beginning on November 12. In addition, <em>Thief of Thieves</em> is officially available on Xbox One and in Xbox Game Pass starting today and we’re bringing <em>Agents of Mayhem</em>, <em>MXGP3</em> and <em>Thomas Was Alone</em> to you starting on November 22.</p>
<p>We are also excited to bring unique gaming experiences like <em>Ori and the Blind Forest</em>, <em>Kingdom Two Crowns</em> and <em>Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice</em> to Xbox Game Pass this December and we announced additional new games from independent developers launching through the ID@Xbox program that will come to Xbox Game Pass the day they debut on Xbox One. Starting this holiday, this list includes <em>Aftercharge</em>, <em>Supermarket Shriek</em>, <em>Mutant Year Zero</em>, <em>Pathologic 2</em>, <em>The Good Life</em>, <em>Void Bastards</em>, and <em>Secret Neighbor</em>. Furthermore, we confirmed <em>Ori and the Will of the Wisps</em> will be available in Xbox Game Pass timed to its global release on Xbox One and Windows 10 PC in 2019.</p>
<p>And if all that isn’t enough to whet your Xbox Game Pass appetite, we also have an exciting offer you don’t want to miss. Starting today through January 3, you can sign up for Xbox Game Pass and receive your first full month for just $1. With a growing catalog of over 100 great games and new titles added every month, now has never been a better time to become an Xbox Game Pass member. Check out <a href="https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2018/11/10/xbox-game-pass-adds-pubg-and-more-at-x018/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">our full Xbox Game Pass post for complete details</a>!</p>
<p><strong>Xbox Delivers Its Biggest Black Friday Deals Ever </strong></p>
<p>The holidays are almost here, and this year shoppers around the world will be able to give more as Xbox is back with our biggest Black Friday sale ever. Xbox is offering deep discounts up to $100 off select Xbox One consoles, bringing Xbox One X down to its lowest price ever starting at $399.99. But the savings don’t stop there. Can’t decide what gift to give to the gamer in your life this holiday? Give the gift of more than 100 titles, including access to Xbox exclusives the same day they launch, for one monthly price at an even better value with deals on Xbox Game Pass.</p>
<p>Score your first month of Xbox Game Pass for just $1. Because gaming is better together, we’re also offering a big discount on Xbox Live Gold that lets you get one month for just $1. And of course, it wouldn’t be Black Friday without discounts on your favorite Xbox games, so we’re offering savings on titles such as <em>Forza Horizon 4</em>, <em>Sea of Thieves</em>, <em>State of Decay 2</em> and more. Check out <a href="https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2018/11/10/black-friday-deals-2018/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the full Black Friday post for more details</a>.</p>
<p><strong>The Biggest Blockbuster Games Play Best on Xbox One</strong></p>
<p>During today’s show, we shared looks at a number of new games coming to Xbox One, as well as updates on some fan favorites:</p>
<p><strong>Take a Trip to Fortune Island in Forza Horizon 4</strong></p>
<p>Ben Thaker-Fell, Chief Designer of the Forza Horizon series, announced the first expansion for <em>Forza Horizon 4,</em> “Fortune Island”, which will release on Dec. 13 on Xbox and Windows 10 PCs. “Fortune Island” takes players on an all-new adventure in the remote northern reaches of the British Isles, where they will encounter extreme conditions including fierce lightning storms, perilous cliffside dirt roads, and sweeping paved mountain switchbacks under the mystical glow of the aurora borealis in search of hidden treasure.</p>
<p><em>Forza Horizon 4</em> players will also be able to drive all five of Ken Block’s high-powered, custom-built Ford vehicles from the upcoming GymkhanaTEN, the 10th installment of the award-winning, Gymkhana viral video franchise. These rides began rolling out in <em>Forza Horizon 4</em> earlier this month for Car Pass members with the release of the 1977 Ford GymkhanaTEN, F-150 Hoonitruck and the 1993 Ford Escort Cosworth Group A. Coming in November for all players are the 1965 Ford Hoonicorn Mustang V2 and the 2017 Ford Fiesta RS and arriving in December is the 2016 Ford GymkhanaTEN Focus RS RX.</p>
<p><em>Forza Horizon 4</em> “Fortune Island” will be available as part of the <u><a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fp%2Fforza-horizon-4-expansions-bundle%2F9p083rdj4cbm%23activetab%3Dpivot%3Aoverviewtab&data=02%7C01%7CChristopher.Contompasis%40assemblyinc.com%7Cbebdf23f4fa14ba456bb08d64424a995%7Cb824bfb3918e43c2bb1cdcc1ba40a82b%7C0%7C0%7C636771321596536926&sdata=2muZ0OZkQ3TppiqeE2VCjsUK%2BUVXmEe6M3coR1S6ZKc%3D&reserved=0">Forza Horizon 4 Expansions Bundle</a></u> which provides players with two game expansions at a reduced cost of $34.99 . Owners of <u><a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fp%2Fforza-horizon-4-ultimate-edition%2F9p513p4mwc71%3Factivetab%3Dpivot%3Aoverviewtab&data=02%7C01%7CChristopher.Contompasis%40assemblyinc.com%7Cbebdf23f4fa14ba456bb08d64424a995%7Cb824bfb3918e43c2bb1cdcc1ba40a82b%7C0%7C0%7C636771321596546930&sdata=%2BI7ES%2Bq9u3x2U16IfjHyXAfQYgjzMBXuydsJZkBQSgQ%3D&reserved=0">Forza Horizon 4 Ultimate Edition</a></u> and <u><a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fp%2Fforza-horizon-4-ultimate-add-ons-bundle%2F9p7jj1fkqwxh&data=02%7C01%7CChristopher.Contompasis%40assemblyinc.com%7Cbebdf23f4fa14ba456bb08d64424a995%7Cb824bfb3918e43c2bb1cdcc1ba40a82b%7C0%7C0%7C636771321596546930&sdata=baAfd5M99ft4XejI8srn9mApUr%2FG5%2BRrns70l0nI3Cs%3D&reserved=0"> Forza Horizon 4 Ultimate Add-Ons Bundle</a></u> will receive Fortune Island at no additional cost. Xbox Game Pass subscribers, who do not already own one of the bundles, are eligible for 10% off a bundle or 10% off an individual purchase of Fortune Island.</p>
<p><strong>Minecraft Marketplace Gets Bigger and Better </strong></p>
<p>Helen Chiang, Head of Minecraft, dropped in to talk about Minecraft’s record-breaking year – a new game announcement, releasing major vanilla game updates, and surpassing 91 million monthly players. On top of all of this, Helen shared insight into the ever-expanding Minecraft Marketplace, bringing Marketplace partner PixelHeads along with her. PixelHeads, one of the most popular official Minecraft partner teams, stopped by to talk about their creations and how they got their start in game development and the Marketplace. During the show, the Minecraft team was proud to announce that the Marketplace has reached 77 partners who have driven more than 13 million purchases for their creations since it launched last June! Viewers also got a very special look at the history behind Cats and Pandas in Minecraft, which will release next month.</p>
<p><strong>Battle Rival Crews in The Arena in Sea of Thieves</strong></p>
<p><em>Sea of Thieves</em> is changing in a big way with its fifth free content update since launch, ‘The Arena.’ Releasing in early 2019, ‘The Arena’ is an all-new competitive game mode that allows players to test their pirating skills in fast-paced matches against rival crews. Each match is a fun, frenetic and action-packed race to find treasure that brings together all the most exciting elements of <em>Sea of Thieves</em> – on demand. ‘The Arena’ also includes a new-tavern area together with a new Trading Company – the Sea Dogs – which will offer new goals, rewards and opportunities to progress to Pirate Legend. <em>Sea of Thieves</em> is available on Xbox One, Windows 10 and Xbox Game Pass as an Xbox Play Anywhere title.</p>
<p><strong>Unveiling the Zedhunter Pack in State of Decay 2 </strong></p>
<p>Today, we got a first look at the next content pack for <em>State of Decay 2</em> launching November 16<sup>th</sup>, the Zedhunter Pack. This new pack adds the powerful and silent crossbow as a new zombie-slaying weapon along with additional melee weapons, facilities, blood plague consumables, and gameplay updates like the ability to respect your skills all into the main game. As part of our continued commitment to supporting the four million players in the <em>State of Decay 2</em> community, Zedhunter will be free for all players – owners of either Standard or Ultimate Edition along with Xbox Game Pass members. Looking forward, we also announced that we are working on a more challenging player experience coming in 2019. Stay tuned for additional details on this difficulty setting and more.</p>
<p><strong>Shoot Your Way to Safety in Void Bastards</strong></p>
<p>Premiered during Inside Xbox and inspired by <em>BioShock</em> and <em>System Shock 2</em>, <em>Void Bastards</em> is a revolutionary new strategy-shooter that will test your wits as well as exercise your aim coming to Xbox as a console launch exclusive. Can you lead the misfit prisoners of the Void Ark through the derelict spaceships and myriad dangers of the Sargasso Nebula? Will you make the right choices about what to do, where to go and when to fight? Master combat, manage ship controls, scavenge supplies, craft improvised tools and much more! <em>Void Bastards</em> will also come to Xbox Game Pass coinciding with its launch on Xbox One.</p>
<p><strong>Battlefield V</strong></p>
<p>A trailer was debuted highlighting the Xbox One X enhancements for the highly-anticipated title, “Battlefield V,” coming from Electronic Arts and DICE. Featuring 4K Ultra HD and HDR support on Xbox One X, leading to enhanced visuals allowing you to lead your squad to victory in the highest fidelity Battlefield title ever. It’s the best looking console experience launching worldwide on November 20, but EA Access members can jump in to the Battlefield V Play First Trial beginning November 9.</p>
<p><strong>Our First Look at <em>Devil May Cry 5’s</em> ‘Void Mode’</strong></p>
<p><em>Devil May Cry 5</em> producer Matt Walker joined director Hideaki Itsuno from Capcom’s head office in the vibrant city of Osaka to show off the rich culture of the city and share how the team draws from their surroundings. Itsuno provided insight into how Capcom’s action games are influenced by the Osaka area, before giving Inside Xbox a first look at the comprehensive training mode he’s created for <em>Devil May Cry 5</em> – dubbed ‘The Void’. As a first for Xbox fans, Itsuno gave a personal tour of Nero’s Devil Breakers, including the bonus Devil Breakers available in the Deluxe Edition content of <em>Devil May Cry 5</em>.</p>
<p><strong>Two Highly Anticipated Fighters Join the Jump Force Roster</strong></p>
<p>Bandai Namco gives Inside Xbox an exclusive first look at some never-before seen special moves of two of the most anticipated characters slated to appear in <em>Jump Force</em>. Bandai Namco Entertainment America’s LATAM Community Manager Diego Paramio will give us a play-by-play to accompany the world debut of the Awakening Transformations of two legendary Dragon Ball characters that will be playable in <em>Jump Force</em>: SSGSS Vegeta and Golden Frieza! This is the first time fans will be able to see these two highly anticipated characters going into their respective super-powered modes and showing off their mightiest special moves!</p>
<p>As another special treat, Bandai Namco also premiered the first footage of SSGSS Goku in action in <em>Jump Force</em>! You won’t want to miss it!</p>
<p><strong>Just Cause 4 Brings the Thunder</strong></p>
<p>The new <em>Just Cause 4</em> CGI cinematic trailer sums up the blockbuster action <em>Just Cause 4 </em>delivers. Rico Rodriguez faces his biggest challenge yet in Solís, leading the Army of Chaos against the ruthless Gabriela Morales. <em>Just Cause 4</em> is the biggest, most varied and creative Just Cause ever. Everything you love about the series is back and beefed up: insane physics, unmatched levels of destruction and the player’s trademark parachute, wingsuit and grapple. This December, <em>Just Cause 4</em> brings the thunder on Xbox One and Xbox One X.</p>
<p><strong>A Familiar Face Comes to Kingdom Hearts III</strong></p>
<p><em>KINGDOM HEARTS III</em> revealed the return of Winnie the Pooh in a brand new trailer at the Microsoft Fan Fest in Mexico City! The trailer also revealed ominous hints of Master Xehanort and Organization XIII’s nefarious activities. Sora, Donald, Goofy as well as many other Disney and Pixar heroes (like from <em>Big Hero </em>6, <em>Tangled</em>, and <em>Pirates of the Caribbean </em>and more) will need to stand strong together and fight to save the light from the impending darkness. Attendees were able to play a demo that featured segments from the <em>Hercules</em> and <em>Toy Story </em>worlds. <em>KINGDOM HEARTS III</em> comes out January 29, 2019.</p>
<p><strong>A Closer Look at The Forge in Shadow of the Tomb Raider</strong></p>
<p>You may have already experienced Lara Croft’s defining moment, but <em>Shadow of the Tomb Raider</em> continues with The Forge – the first of seven, monthly DLC adventures. Join Narrative Director Jason Dozois and Senior Associate Producer Jo Dahan as they take Lara and her newfound friend, Abi on a co-op journey through the fiery tower of The Forge on Inside Xbox.</p>
<p><strong>The Xbox One Backward Compatibility Catalog Continues to Grow</strong></p>
<p>Today, we shared that on November 13, four, new Backward Compatible titles will be getting enhanced for Xbox One X. <em>Final Fantasy XIII, Final Fantasy XIII-2</em> and <em>LIGHTNING RETURNS: Final Fantasy XIII</em> will be entirely new to the Back Compat catalog, while <em>Civilization Revolution</em> will be receiving an (Xbox One X Enhanced) update to take advantage of the world’s most powerful console. To date, gamers have enjoyed playing well over 1 billion hours of Backward Compatible games and we look forward to continuing to grow the collection including more than 500 Xbox 360 games, 25 Xbox One X Enhanced Xbox 360 titles, and 32 Original Xbox classics.</p>
<p><strong>Play Your Way with Mouse and Keyboard Support</strong></p>
<p>Support for mouse and keyboard input on Xbox One will arrive next week, with select titles enabled at launch for Insiders and even more coming. On today’s IX episode, Epic detailed how <em>Fortnite</em> will be one of the first titles to offer mouse and keyboard input alongside previously announced <em>Warframe</em> in today’s update, with <em>Bomber Crew</em>, <em>Deep Rock Galactic</em>, <em>Strange Brigade</em>, <em>Vermintide 2</em>, <em>War Thunder</em> and <em>X-Morph Defense</em> adding support in November, and <em>Children of Morta</em>, <em>DayZ</em>, <em>Minion Master</em>, <em>Moonlighter</em>, <em>Vigor</em>, <em>Warface</em>, and <em>Wargroove</em> adding support in the future. When the update launches next week, all developers will have the tools they need to create tailored mouse and keyboard experiences for their games as they see fit to ensure a fair and fun experience for fans.</p>
<p>Additionally, we shared that the best mouse and keyboard experience on Xbox One will be available through Designed for Xbox mice and keyboards. These are created for living room or desktop scenarios, come equipped with a dedicated Xbox key, and support the new Xbox Dynamic Lighting feature – enabling immersive in-game lighting effects. Razer will be the exclusive partner to ship a Designed for Xbox mouse and keyboard and will formally introduce the product at CES in January.</p>
<p><strong>The Xbox Adaptive Controller Launches Worldwide</strong></p>
<p>We’re very proud to announce that the Xbox Adaptive Controller is launching in 17 new markets in 2019, including Mexico. New countries to offer the acclaimed controller include Argentina, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Hong Kong, Hungary, Israel, Japan, Slovakia, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Taiwan, Turkey and UAE. We’ll be bringing you more details on the worldwide launch of the Xbox Adaptive Controller soon.</p>
<p><strong>#givewithXbox</strong></p>
<p>We also announced #givewithXbox, a holiday-timed campaign from Xbox that aims to bring the joy of gaming to everyone. Beginning today and ending December 9, Xbox will donate $5 USD of Xbox products, up to $1 million, for every photo shared on social media about what gaming together means using the hashtag #givewithXbox. The donations will be split amongst four inspirational charities who help bring gaming to everyone: Child’s Play, Gamers Outreach, SpecialEffect and Operation Supply Drop. Xbox is committed more than ever to gaming for everyone and making Xbox a place where everyone has fun. So, jump in with Xbox to help even more people play this holiday season.</p>
<p><strong>‘Winter of Arcade’ Returns this December</strong></p>
<p>Last but not least, we’re thrilled to announce ‘Winter of Arcade’, where from December 6th to December 21st we will providing special incentives on select ID@Xbox titles to help you fill out your library. Tune into The Game Awards on December 6 live on Mixer for more info.</p>
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<div style="margin: 5px 5% 10px 5%;"><img src="http://www.sickgaming.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/everything-the-xbox-team-announced-at-x018.jpg" width="300" height="300" title="" alt="" /></div><div><div><img src="http://www.sickgaming.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/everything-the-xbox-team-announced-at-x018.jpg" class="ff-og-image-inserted" /></div>
<p>This weekend, the Xbox community came together to take part in X018, a global celebration of all things Xbox filled with news, first looks, and plenty of surprises. More than 10,000 fans joined us at the fourth-annual Xbox FanFest: Mexico City to get a closer look at the future of Xbox through hands-on events and panels featuring members of Team Xbox, streamed live on Inside Xbox.</p>
<p>The big news of the day was the announcement that two game development studios with storied histories will join Microsoft Studios to create exclusive games for Xbox fans. Coupled with the five new studio partners we announced at E3, the future of Xbox exclusives is looking bright.</p>
<p>X018 showcased a lineup of upcoming titles with something for every gamer, including a first-look at <em>Crackdown 3’s</em> multiplayer mode, and new content from <em>Just Cause 4</em>, <em>Sea of Thieves</em>, <em>State of Decay 2</em>, and many more. What’s more, we’ve now got over 327 titles enhanced for Xbox One X, the world’s most powerful console. From exclusive blockbusters like <em>Forza Horizon 4</em> to holiday standouts like <em>Fallout 76</em>, there’s no denying the biggest games of the holiday season play best on Xbox One.</p>
<p>Xbox also revealed deep console and game discounts for the holidays, as well as access to more than 100 games for one low monthly price through Xbox Game Pass – the best value in gaming. The team announced a number of awesome new titles coming to Xbox Game Pass soon, including hits like <em>PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG).</em></p>
<p>So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at today’s big news:</p>
<p><strong>Obsidian Entertainment and inXile Entertainment Join Microsoft Studios </strong></p>
<p>As part of our commitment to bringing a steady stream of new, exclusive games to our fans, Matt Booty announced Microsoft’s intent to acquire two game development studios – Obsidian Entertainment and inXile Entertainment. The teams at Obsidian and inXile share a distinguished reputation for creating deep, engaging role-playing games. As part of Microsoft Studios, Obsidian and inXile will have the support and freedom to fully realize creative ambitions on both existing franchises and new projects. These two creative teams will continue to operate autonomously and bring their unique talents, IP and expertise to Microsoft Studios as they build new RPG experiences for our players and fans. You can learn more about Obsidian Entertainment and inXile Entertainment in <a href="https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2018/11/10/obsidian-inxile-join-microsoft-studios/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">our full announcement post here</a>.<strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Crackdown 3 Announces Xbox Game Pass Launch on February 15 with Explosive Debut of Wrecking Zone Multiplayer</strong></p>
<p>X018 provided a <a href="https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2018/11/10/crackdown-3-x018-wrecking-zone/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">first look at the over-the-top antics and explosive gameplay of <em>Crackdown 3’s</em> Wrecking Zone</a>, an all-new multiplayer mode where environmental destruction is your secret weapon to take down your enemies. Developed by Microsoft Studios in collaboration with Sumo Digital and Elbow Rocket, <em>Crackdown 3</em> will bring super-powered Agents to New Providence, an action-packed open-world, to take down a criminal corporation using an explosive set of weapons and abilities. Step up your boom in the campaign on your own or with a friend to unleash cooperative mayhem when <em>Crackdown 3</em> launches on February 15, 2019. <em>Crackdown 3</em> is available at launch with <a href="https://www.xbox.com/en-US/xbox-game-pass">Xbox Game Pass</a> and globally on <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/crackdown-3-for-xbox-one/910r7jk0pwtb">Xbox One</a> and <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/crackdown-3-for-xbox-one/910r7jk0pwtb">Windows 10</a>.</p>
<p>As a special thanks to our fans, and to celebrate our X018 announcements, we will be offering the original <em>Crackdown </em>to all fans free of charge from now until November 30th. Experience the original now with Xbox One X enhancements. Head to the <a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fp%2Fcrackdown%2Fc3vnjhhd7mm4%3FCustomerIntent%3DConsumer%26SilentAuth%3D1%26activetab%3Dpivot%253Aoverviewtab&data=02%7C01%7CStephen.Ludlow%40assemblyinc.com%7C68ff38423d8e4df7ff3a08d645095a79%7Cb824bfb3918e43c2bb1cdcc1ba40a82b%7C0%7C0%7C636772303808316211&sdata=PICHu7jLHG%2FfYzJcfaVlW8%2FjI4uj9blagNVb4gZfIcs%3D&reserved=0">Microsoft Store</a> now to get your copy!</p>
<p><strong>The Hits Keep on Coming with Xbox Game Pass</strong></p>
<p>Today, Microsoft announced the general availability of the Xbox Game Pass app on iOS and Android, enabling you to seamlessly browse and download new games to your home console via your mobile device, so you can quickly jump into gameplay the next time you turn on your Xbox One. We are also excited to continue to expand and diversify the Xbox Game Pass catalog by making the popular blockbuster title <em>PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) </em>available to all members beginning on November 12. In addition, <em>Thief of Thieves</em> is officially available on Xbox One and in Xbox Game Pass starting today and we’re bringing <em>Agents of Mayhem</em>, <em>MXGP3</em> and <em>Thomas Was Alone</em> to you starting on November 22.</p>
<p>We are also excited to bring unique gaming experiences like <em>Ori and the Blind Forest</em>, <em>Kingdom Two Crowns</em> and <em>Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice</em> to Xbox Game Pass this December and we announced additional new games from independent developers launching through the ID@Xbox program that will come to Xbox Game Pass the day they debut on Xbox One. Starting this holiday, this list includes <em>Aftercharge</em>, <em>Supermarket Shriek</em>, <em>Mutant Year Zero</em>, <em>Pathologic 2</em>, <em>The Good Life</em>, <em>Void Bastards</em>, and <em>Secret Neighbor</em>. Furthermore, we confirmed <em>Ori and the Will of the Wisps</em> will be available in Xbox Game Pass timed to its global release on Xbox One and Windows 10 PC in 2019.</p>
<p>And if all that isn’t enough to whet your Xbox Game Pass appetite, we also have an exciting offer you don’t want to miss. Starting today through January 3, you can sign up for Xbox Game Pass and receive your first full month for just $1. With a growing catalog of over 100 great games and new titles added every month, now has never been a better time to become an Xbox Game Pass member. Check out <a href="https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2018/11/10/xbox-game-pass-adds-pubg-and-more-at-x018/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">our full Xbox Game Pass post for complete details</a>!</p>
<p><strong>Xbox Delivers Its Biggest Black Friday Deals Ever </strong></p>
<p>The holidays are almost here, and this year shoppers around the world will be able to give more as Xbox is back with our biggest Black Friday sale ever. Xbox is offering deep discounts up to $100 off select Xbox One consoles, bringing Xbox One X down to its lowest price ever starting at $399.99. But the savings don’t stop there. Can’t decide what gift to give to the gamer in your life this holiday? Give the gift of more than 100 titles, including access to Xbox exclusives the same day they launch, for one monthly price at an even better value with deals on Xbox Game Pass.</p>
<p>Score your first month of Xbox Game Pass for just $1. Because gaming is better together, we’re also offering a big discount on Xbox Live Gold that lets you get one month for just $1. And of course, it wouldn’t be Black Friday without discounts on your favorite Xbox games, so we’re offering savings on titles such as <em>Forza Horizon 4</em>, <em>Sea of Thieves</em>, <em>State of Decay 2</em> and more. Check out <a href="https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2018/11/10/black-friday-deals-2018/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the full Black Friday post for more details</a>.</p>
<p><strong>The Biggest Blockbuster Games Play Best on Xbox One</strong></p>
<p>During today’s show, we shared looks at a number of new games coming to Xbox One, as well as updates on some fan favorites:</p>
<p><strong>Take a Trip to Fortune Island in Forza Horizon 4</strong></p>
<p>Ben Thaker-Fell, Chief Designer of the Forza Horizon series, announced the first expansion for <em>Forza Horizon 4,</em> “Fortune Island”, which will release on Dec. 13 on Xbox and Windows 10 PCs. “Fortune Island” takes players on an all-new adventure in the remote northern reaches of the British Isles, where they will encounter extreme conditions including fierce lightning storms, perilous cliffside dirt roads, and sweeping paved mountain switchbacks under the mystical glow of the aurora borealis in search of hidden treasure.</p>
<p><em>Forza Horizon 4</em> players will also be able to drive all five of Ken Block’s high-powered, custom-built Ford vehicles from the upcoming GymkhanaTEN, the 10th installment of the award-winning, Gymkhana viral video franchise. These rides began rolling out in <em>Forza Horizon 4</em> earlier this month for Car Pass members with the release of the 1977 Ford GymkhanaTEN, F-150 Hoonitruck and the 1993 Ford Escort Cosworth Group A. Coming in November for all players are the 1965 Ford Hoonicorn Mustang V2 and the 2017 Ford Fiesta RS and arriving in December is the 2016 Ford GymkhanaTEN Focus RS RX.</p>
<p><em>Forza Horizon 4</em> “Fortune Island” will be available as part of the <u><a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fp%2Fforza-horizon-4-expansions-bundle%2F9p083rdj4cbm%23activetab%3Dpivot%3Aoverviewtab&data=02%7C01%7CChristopher.Contompasis%40assemblyinc.com%7Cbebdf23f4fa14ba456bb08d64424a995%7Cb824bfb3918e43c2bb1cdcc1ba40a82b%7C0%7C0%7C636771321596536926&sdata=2muZ0OZkQ3TppiqeE2VCjsUK%2BUVXmEe6M3coR1S6ZKc%3D&reserved=0">Forza Horizon 4 Expansions Bundle</a></u> which provides players with two game expansions at a reduced cost of $34.99 . Owners of <u><a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fp%2Fforza-horizon-4-ultimate-edition%2F9p513p4mwc71%3Factivetab%3Dpivot%3Aoverviewtab&data=02%7C01%7CChristopher.Contompasis%40assemblyinc.com%7Cbebdf23f4fa14ba456bb08d64424a995%7Cb824bfb3918e43c2bb1cdcc1ba40a82b%7C0%7C0%7C636771321596546930&sdata=%2BI7ES%2Bq9u3x2U16IfjHyXAfQYgjzMBXuydsJZkBQSgQ%3D&reserved=0">Forza Horizon 4 Ultimate Edition</a></u> and <u><a href="https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.microsoft.com%2Fen-us%2Fp%2Fforza-horizon-4-ultimate-add-ons-bundle%2F9p7jj1fkqwxh&data=02%7C01%7CChristopher.Contompasis%40assemblyinc.com%7Cbebdf23f4fa14ba456bb08d64424a995%7Cb824bfb3918e43c2bb1cdcc1ba40a82b%7C0%7C0%7C636771321596546930&sdata=baAfd5M99ft4XejI8srn9mApUr%2FG5%2BRrns70l0nI3Cs%3D&reserved=0"> Forza Horizon 4 Ultimate Add-Ons Bundle</a></u> will receive Fortune Island at no additional cost. Xbox Game Pass subscribers, who do not already own one of the bundles, are eligible for 10% off a bundle or 10% off an individual purchase of Fortune Island.</p>
<p><strong>Minecraft Marketplace Gets Bigger and Better </strong></p>
<p>Helen Chiang, Head of Minecraft, dropped in to talk about Minecraft’s record-breaking year – a new game announcement, releasing major vanilla game updates, and surpassing 91 million monthly players. On top of all of this, Helen shared insight into the ever-expanding Minecraft Marketplace, bringing Marketplace partner PixelHeads along with her. PixelHeads, one of the most popular official Minecraft partner teams, stopped by to talk about their creations and how they got their start in game development and the Marketplace. During the show, the Minecraft team was proud to announce that the Marketplace has reached 77 partners who have driven more than 13 million purchases for their creations since it launched last June! Viewers also got a very special look at the history behind Cats and Pandas in Minecraft, which will release next month.</p>
<p><strong>Battle Rival Crews in The Arena in Sea of Thieves</strong></p>
<p><em>Sea of Thieves</em> is changing in a big way with its fifth free content update since launch, ‘The Arena.’ Releasing in early 2019, ‘The Arena’ is an all-new competitive game mode that allows players to test their pirating skills in fast-paced matches against rival crews. Each match is a fun, frenetic and action-packed race to find treasure that brings together all the most exciting elements of <em>Sea of Thieves</em> – on demand. ‘The Arena’ also includes a new-tavern area together with a new Trading Company – the Sea Dogs – which will offer new goals, rewards and opportunities to progress to Pirate Legend. <em>Sea of Thieves</em> is available on Xbox One, Windows 10 and Xbox Game Pass as an Xbox Play Anywhere title.</p>
<p><strong>Unveiling the Zedhunter Pack in State of Decay 2 </strong></p>
<p>Today, we got a first look at the next content pack for <em>State of Decay 2</em> launching November 16<sup>th</sup>, the Zedhunter Pack. This new pack adds the powerful and silent crossbow as a new zombie-slaying weapon along with additional melee weapons, facilities, blood plague consumables, and gameplay updates like the ability to respect your skills all into the main game. As part of our continued commitment to supporting the four million players in the <em>State of Decay 2</em> community, Zedhunter will be free for all players – owners of either Standard or Ultimate Edition along with Xbox Game Pass members. Looking forward, we also announced that we are working on a more challenging player experience coming in 2019. Stay tuned for additional details on this difficulty setting and more.</p>
<p><strong>Shoot Your Way to Safety in Void Bastards</strong></p>
<p>Premiered during Inside Xbox and inspired by <em>BioShock</em> and <em>System Shock 2</em>, <em>Void Bastards</em> is a revolutionary new strategy-shooter that will test your wits as well as exercise your aim coming to Xbox as a console launch exclusive. Can you lead the misfit prisoners of the Void Ark through the derelict spaceships and myriad dangers of the Sargasso Nebula? Will you make the right choices about what to do, where to go and when to fight? Master combat, manage ship controls, scavenge supplies, craft improvised tools and much more! <em>Void Bastards</em> will also come to Xbox Game Pass coinciding with its launch on Xbox One.</p>
<p><strong>Battlefield V</strong></p>
<p>A trailer was debuted highlighting the Xbox One X enhancements for the highly-anticipated title, “Battlefield V,” coming from Electronic Arts and DICE. Featuring 4K Ultra HD and HDR support on Xbox One X, leading to enhanced visuals allowing you to lead your squad to victory in the highest fidelity Battlefield title ever. It’s the best looking console experience launching worldwide on November 20, but EA Access members can jump in to the Battlefield V Play First Trial beginning November 9.</p>
<p><strong>Our First Look at <em>Devil May Cry 5’s</em> ‘Void Mode’</strong></p>
<p><em>Devil May Cry 5</em> producer Matt Walker joined director Hideaki Itsuno from Capcom’s head office in the vibrant city of Osaka to show off the rich culture of the city and share how the team draws from their surroundings. Itsuno provided insight into how Capcom’s action games are influenced by the Osaka area, before giving Inside Xbox a first look at the comprehensive training mode he’s created for <em>Devil May Cry 5</em> – dubbed ‘The Void’. As a first for Xbox fans, Itsuno gave a personal tour of Nero’s Devil Breakers, including the bonus Devil Breakers available in the Deluxe Edition content of <em>Devil May Cry 5</em>.</p>
<p><strong>Two Highly Anticipated Fighters Join the Jump Force Roster</strong></p>
<p>Bandai Namco gives Inside Xbox an exclusive first look at some never-before seen special moves of two of the most anticipated characters slated to appear in <em>Jump Force</em>. Bandai Namco Entertainment America’s LATAM Community Manager Diego Paramio will give us a play-by-play to accompany the world debut of the Awakening Transformations of two legendary Dragon Ball characters that will be playable in <em>Jump Force</em>: SSGSS Vegeta and Golden Frieza! This is the first time fans will be able to see these two highly anticipated characters going into their respective super-powered modes and showing off their mightiest special moves!</p>
<p>As another special treat, Bandai Namco also premiered the first footage of SSGSS Goku in action in <em>Jump Force</em>! You won’t want to miss it!</p>
<p><strong>Just Cause 4 Brings the Thunder</strong></p>
<p>The new <em>Just Cause 4</em> CGI cinematic trailer sums up the blockbuster action <em>Just Cause 4 </em>delivers. Rico Rodriguez faces his biggest challenge yet in Solís, leading the Army of Chaos against the ruthless Gabriela Morales. <em>Just Cause 4</em> is the biggest, most varied and creative Just Cause ever. Everything you love about the series is back and beefed up: insane physics, unmatched levels of destruction and the player’s trademark parachute, wingsuit and grapple. This December, <em>Just Cause 4</em> brings the thunder on Xbox One and Xbox One X.</p>
<p><strong>A Familiar Face Comes to Kingdom Hearts III</strong></p>
<p><em>KINGDOM HEARTS III</em> revealed the return of Winnie the Pooh in a brand new trailer at the Microsoft Fan Fest in Mexico City! The trailer also revealed ominous hints of Master Xehanort and Organization XIII’s nefarious activities. Sora, Donald, Goofy as well as many other Disney and Pixar heroes (like from <em>Big Hero </em>6, <em>Tangled</em>, and <em>Pirates of the Caribbean </em>and more) will need to stand strong together and fight to save the light from the impending darkness. Attendees were able to play a demo that featured segments from the <em>Hercules</em> and <em>Toy Story </em>worlds. <em>KINGDOM HEARTS III</em> comes out January 29, 2019.</p>
<p><strong>A Closer Look at The Forge in Shadow of the Tomb Raider</strong></p>
<p>You may have already experienced Lara Croft’s defining moment, but <em>Shadow of the Tomb Raider</em> continues with The Forge – the first of seven, monthly DLC adventures. Join Narrative Director Jason Dozois and Senior Associate Producer Jo Dahan as they take Lara and her newfound friend, Abi on a co-op journey through the fiery tower of The Forge on Inside Xbox.</p>
<p><strong>The Xbox One Backward Compatibility Catalog Continues to Grow</strong></p>
<p>Today, we shared that on November 13, four, new Backward Compatible titles will be getting enhanced for Xbox One X. <em>Final Fantasy XIII, Final Fantasy XIII-2</em> and <em>LIGHTNING RETURNS: Final Fantasy XIII</em> will be entirely new to the Back Compat catalog, while <em>Civilization Revolution</em> will be receiving an (Xbox One X Enhanced) update to take advantage of the world’s most powerful console. To date, gamers have enjoyed playing well over 1 billion hours of Backward Compatible games and we look forward to continuing to grow the collection including more than 500 Xbox 360 games, 25 Xbox One X Enhanced Xbox 360 titles, and 32 Original Xbox classics.</p>
<p><strong>Play Your Way with Mouse and Keyboard Support</strong></p>
<p>Support for mouse and keyboard input on Xbox One will arrive next week, with select titles enabled at launch for Insiders and even more coming. On today’s IX episode, Epic detailed how <em>Fortnite</em> will be one of the first titles to offer mouse and keyboard input alongside previously announced <em>Warframe</em> in today’s update, with <em>Bomber Crew</em>, <em>Deep Rock Galactic</em>, <em>Strange Brigade</em>, <em>Vermintide 2</em>, <em>War Thunder</em> and <em>X-Morph Defense</em> adding support in November, and <em>Children of Morta</em>, <em>DayZ</em>, <em>Minion Master</em>, <em>Moonlighter</em>, <em>Vigor</em>, <em>Warface</em>, and <em>Wargroove</em> adding support in the future. When the update launches next week, all developers will have the tools they need to create tailored mouse and keyboard experiences for their games as they see fit to ensure a fair and fun experience for fans.</p>
<p>Additionally, we shared that the best mouse and keyboard experience on Xbox One will be available through Designed for Xbox mice and keyboards. These are created for living room or desktop scenarios, come equipped with a dedicated Xbox key, and support the new Xbox Dynamic Lighting feature – enabling immersive in-game lighting effects. Razer will be the exclusive partner to ship a Designed for Xbox mouse and keyboard and will formally introduce the product at CES in January.</p>
<p><strong>The Xbox Adaptive Controller Launches Worldwide</strong></p>
<p>We’re very proud to announce that the Xbox Adaptive Controller is launching in 17 new markets in 2019, including Mexico. New countries to offer the acclaimed controller include Argentina, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Hong Kong, Hungary, Israel, Japan, Slovakia, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Taiwan, Turkey and UAE. We’ll be bringing you more details on the worldwide launch of the Xbox Adaptive Controller soon.</p>
<p><strong>#givewithXbox</strong></p>
<p>We also announced #givewithXbox, a holiday-timed campaign from Xbox that aims to bring the joy of gaming to everyone. Beginning today and ending December 9, Xbox will donate $5 USD of Xbox products, up to $1 million, for every photo shared on social media about what gaming together means using the hashtag #givewithXbox. The donations will be split amongst four inspirational charities who help bring gaming to everyone: Child’s Play, Gamers Outreach, SpecialEffect and Operation Supply Drop. Xbox is committed more than ever to gaming for everyone and making Xbox a place where everyone has fun. So, jump in with Xbox to help even more people play this holiday season.</p>
<p><strong>‘Winter of Arcade’ Returns this December</strong></p>
<p>Last but not least, we’re thrilled to announce ‘Winter of Arcade’, where from December 6th to December 21st we will providing special incentives on select ID@Xbox titles to help you fill out your library. Tune into The Game Awards on December 6 live on Mixer for more info.</p>
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