Sea of Thieves has reportedly sold over 1 million copies on PlayStation 5
Sea of Thieves was one of the four major games from Xbox Game Studios that came to PlayStation 5 earlier this year. The game has seen huge success on the PlayStation platform as it took first place as the Best-Selling title in Europe. According to a report from Jez Corden of Windows Central, Sea of Thieves has sold more than 1 million copies on PlayStation 5. “Trusted sources have indicated to me that Sea of Thieves has crossed a million sales on PlayStation since its launch over there, and is most likely higher still since this information came to me,” said Jez Corden. If it’s at least 1 million copies sold then that would be over 40 million dollars in revenue for Microsoft as the game costs $40 and this does not include the microtransactions that are offered in Sea of Thieves. Microsoft doesn’t normally come out with official sale numbers for its hardware or even software. It will remain unknown for a while of the exact numbers of its game or console sales. After Sea of Thieves was added to PlayStation 5, the action-adventure game from Rare reached over 40 million players. A large amount of those players are helped by Game Pass on Xbox and PC.
“Better Games That More People Can Play,” Phil Spencer Answers Amid Its Latest Title Releasing Multiplatform
While Xbox appears to be on the cutoff of more gross profits in its console sales, Microsoft is ushering its first-party lineup into new direction; releasing on other platforms. Thus far we’ve seen this with four title: Sea of Thieves, Hi-Fi Rush, Grounded, and Pentiment. However, Spencer did indicate that both Starfield & Indiana Jones and the Great Circle was not part of that discussion at the time. And this goes even further. As per the FTC files submitted for the acquisition case for Activision Blizzard previously, documents indicated that the game was intended to only be on Xbox. However, it was no secret when Microsoft announced at Gamescom Opening Night Live that the MachineGames title is coming to PlayStation 5 early next year. Amid many looking for an answer as to the decision for this move, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer responded during an interview in Cologne, Germany on the topic. You can watch the segment in the video below: “Going to the PlayStation announcement, obviously last spring we launched four games – two of them on the Switch, two of them on PlayStation – we said we’re gonna learn. We said we’d watch- at a showcase I might have said ‘from our learning we’re gonna do more’. What I see when I look is that our franchises are getting stronger; our Xbox console players this year are as high as as they’ve ever been; so I look at it and I say, ‘ok our player numbers are going up for the console platform, our franchises are as strong as they’ve ever been, and we run a business.’ It’s definitely true inside of Microsoft the bar is high for us in terms of the delivery that we have to give back to the company, cause we get a level of support from the company that’s just amazing in what we’re able to go do. So I look at this: how can we make our games as strong as possible, our platform continues to grow, both on console, on PC, and on cloud. And I think it’s just a strategy that just works for us,” Spencer explained. As an industry right now, there’s a lot of pressure on the industry, it’s been growing for a long time and now people are looking for way to grow, and I think- as us as fans, as players of games, we just have to anticipate that there is going to be more change in how some of the traditional ways in games were built & distributed – that’s going to change. […] But the end result is going to be better games that more people can play. If we’re not focused on that, we’re focused on the wrong things. Ultimately, this only leads to understanding where Microsoft/Xbox draws the line exactly for this. Alongside Indiana Jones, it is also confirmed that Doom: The Dark Ages is also coming as multiplatform. From what Spencer said initially during the finalizing for the deal in 2020, he explained it is “case-by-case” depending on if it is a pre-established IP or newer. What’s more, the leaker that correctly reported on Indiana Jones and the Great Circle did also indicate that not all games are exclusive. In a tweet, @NatetheHate2 said that high profile titles will not leave Xbox. So, for now, franchises like Halo, Gears of War, and Forza are to remain exclusive to Xbox – at least until another change of heart happens. You can read the full report by heading here. Are you surprised with the new notion from Microsoft for Xbox title?
Microsoft Reveals New Accessibility Peripheral ‘Xbox Adaptive Joystick’, Coming Early 2025
Although the spotlight remains on Microsoft’s commitment to first-party releases & legacy support, the Xbox firm has remained adamant on also propping up accessibility as well. For nearly a decade, the Xbox firm has remained the apogee for support in that community. We’ve witnessed this with the Xbox Adaptive Controller and more since the Xbox Series X|S launch. Over the past few years, Microsoft has injected guidelines for the betterment of disabled players and those with proficiencies that enjoy the platform. What’s more, it continues to collaborate with other companies to put these users first. Back in May, it revealed the Proteus Controller as part of a new partnership with Byowave. From the height of Gamescom this week, Microsoft unveils a new peripheral – the Xbox Adaptive Joystick. Costing about $29.99, it will go for sale next year. You can watch the trailer in the video below: “Players have expressed a need for an affordable, singular joystick to use alongside the Xbox Adaptive Controller and other Xbox controllers. Through years of research, testing and collaboration with players with disabilities, and accessibility experts, we designed the Xbox Adaptive Joystick as a wired companion to Xbox controllers, specifically for players with limited mobility. “It includes four button inputs on the front, a standard Xbox thumbstick, and two additional buttons that mimic the bumper and trigger placement on a traditional controller. All these buttons are customizable, providing the flexibility to play in a way that’s most comfortable,” the Xbox gaming accessibility team writes in the Xbox Wire post. Are you in favor of more accessibility controllers from Xbox? The Xbox Adaptive Joystick is set to release sometime in early 2025. Source: Xbox Wire
The New Line Of Xbox Series Consoles Release In October, Pre-Orders Now Live
The true understanding for Xbox Series X|S and where it stands currently is not as Microsoft may have anticipated. With its flagship release alongside an entry-level SKU that opens to users sampling the platform, it struggles to sell beyond its 20+ million units. Although that is apparent, it does appear to at least break records in other markets. For one, it did outperform the Original Xbox in Japan. With over 100,000 systems sold, it also sells more than the prior generation Xbox One as well. Despite that, there is more price increases for the system in that region. Entering the latter half for 2024, Microsoft plans to ship three new iterations of the system ahead of the holiday season. On Wednesday, Microsoft reveals that pre-orders for Xbox Series S – 1TB in Robot White, Xbox Series X – 1TB Digital Edition in Robot White, and Xbox Series X – 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition are now live. You can watch the promotional trailer in the video below: “At Xbox, our vision is to bring more games to more players across a wide variety of devices. It’s a great time to play Xbox games, many of which will be available on day one for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, and Game Pass for Console members. […] For many players, we know our consoles are the preferred choice to play the incredible titles available on Xbox,” head of Xbox Devices Roanne Sones says. Probably the biggest takeaway from the announcement is the digital-only Xbox Series X. Although digital sales continue to climb, players are worried about the disregard for physical sales. And after reports on Microsoft working on such a console, it only illustrates to be an afterthought in the long run. You can read report by heading here. Are you planning to get any of these Xbox Series X|S systems? Xbox Series S – 1TB in Robot White, Xbox Series X – 1TB Digital Edition in Robot White, and Xbox Series X – 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition arrives on October 15, 2024. Source: Xbox Wire
Tarsier Studios Reveals New IP Reanimal
One of the biggest surprises to come from Tarsier Studios is the acquisition established with THQ Nordic. Not only will the game studio now be under a parent company, but it will also move on from the Little Nightmares franchise. This was discovered when Bandai Namco revealed Little Nightmares III with Supermassive Games at the helm for development. Instead, THQ Nordic & Tarsier Studios will be conjuring a new IP altogether. Back in 2021, it was confirmed a new project from the deal was already underway. “They will move over to create new IPs, and I’m super excited, and that was the main reason we made this acquisition a bit over a year ago,” CEO Lars Wingfor shared then. At Gamescom Opening Night Live, Tarsier Studios took the stage to showcase its first reveal of this new IP – Reanimal. You can watch the announcement trailer in the video below: “In this co-op horror adventure game, you play as a brother & sister who go through hell to rescue their missing friends. Exploring by boat and on land, you must use your wits to survive, work together to escape the hellish island, and the dark secret that haunts you,” the description for Reanimal from the official website reads. “In this dark, unsettling tale, the emphasis is on tension and thick atmosphere, as you join the two orphans on a desperate search for hope and redemption in the direst of circumstances. […] Traverse an intriguing but terrifying world, where the main path is only one part of the fragmented story. Discover all sorts of mysterious locations on your perilous journey, each with its own story to tell.” Are you excited at all for Reanimal? Reanimal is listed for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC.
Little Nightmares III Trailer Illustrates New Online Co-Op For The New 2025 Release
For almost a year now, fans that originally learned of Little Nightmares III coming are still waiting to play the game. Announced back in August 2023, Bandai Namco revealed that Supermassive Games is to take on the new project after Tarsier Studios acquisition by THQ Nordic. However, the wait is still carrying on roughly a year after its promised 2024 release. And that is thanks to the recent delay. Back in May, Bandai Namco & Supermassive Games confirmed Little Nightmares III is now scheduled to release in 2025 – beyond its promised launch for this year. However, there could be some Little Nightmares content to hold you over. Previously, it was discovered that Little Nightmares: Enhanced Edition is in development. At Gamescom Opening Night Live, Bandai Namco alongside Supermassive Games shared a new trailer for Little Nightmares III emphasizing on the game being an online co-op experience. You can watch the Friendship trailer in the video below: “In our first-ever online co-op game, two children will need to collaborate with different tools to solve the eternal problem facing Visitors in this charmingly horrible nightmare world – staying alive. If you play as Low, you’ll have the use of his makeshift bow and arrows […] his arrows slice ropes and bring down the smaller threats of the Nowhere, like grounding buzzing beetles so Alone can finish them off. “Playing as Alone means shouldering her wrench. It must have taken time for such a small creature to learn to haul that solid iron weight. But she wields it with relative ease,” Supermassive Games elaborates in the new blog post for Little Nightmares III. How excited are you for Little Nightmares III? Little Nightmares III is listed for Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC with a 2025 release window. Source: Bandai Namco
Monument Valley 3 Announced For Netflix With December Release, 1 & 2 Coming This Fall
For Netflix, its ambition for gaming on its platform is already in full swing for a few years now. And since then, we’ve witnessed exclusive deals already take place that overshadows Google Play & App Store as well. For instance, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredders Revenge arrived to Netflix for mobile, but is only available there. The same can also be said for console. Upon its release, Valiant Hearts: Coming Home was unique to Netflix at the time as well. And that is not all planned for the initiative at Netflix. Of course, there are plans to realize its television/film properties into games as well. It was previously reported that Squid Game, Wednesday, and Black Mirror will be adapted into games for the initiative. At Gamescom Opening Night Live, Squid Game: Unleashed was revealed. Additionally, Netflix also unveiled that Monument Valley III is coming exclusively to its platform this December. What’s more, Monument Valley & Monument Valley II are also releasing this fall for Netflix. You can watch the trailer in the video below: “In the biggest Monument Valley story yet, set sail in the beautiful universe that captured the imagination of millions and set a new standard for artistic and innovative mobile gaming,” the synopsis for Monument Valley III reads. This is not the first instance of a platform exclusive for UsTwo Games’ series as Monument Valley+ was released on Apple Arcade back in 2022. “Monument Valley is a title that has pushed boundaries of what is possible in games, from the power of minimalist design, to the simplicity of play and the emotion of interactive storytelling. Our goal is to bring our biggest Monument Valley yet to as many people as possible, which is why we partnered with Netflix to deliver the game to hundreds of millions of players around the world as part of their memberships,” game director Jennifer Estaris said Are you excited for the Monument Valley trilogy coming to Netflix? Monument Valley III releases December 10, 2024 for Netflix; Monument Valley I arrives September 14th, 2024 and Monument Valley II launches October 29th, 2024. Source: Netflix
Netflix Announces Squid Game: Unleashed
At Netflix, it is no secret the firm has and continues to push for gaming on its platform. And while the approach for mobile-centric experiences is beyond conventional gaming to say the least, many are interested to see what the firm has planned. One of the biggest takeaways is working on its original IPs. Already, Zack Snyder is working with Super Evil Megacorp on a Rebel Moon title. What’s more, plans for more games across its repertoire of franchises is also coming. According to The Wall Street Journal, internal initiatives are already in place for multiple projects. This includes IPs such as Squid Games, Black Mirror, and even Wednesday. As of December 2023, it was indicated that over 90 titles were in development for its platform at Netflix. In a new trailer from Gamescom Opening Night Live, Netflix reveals the first of its initiative is underway. You can watch the trailer for Squid Game: Unleashed in the video below: “Squid Game: Unleashed is a 32-player party royale showdown featuring challenges fans will recognize from the hit series (and some new ones). Team up with friends, face off against enemies, and race through deadly obstacles to prove your skills and claim ultimate glory,” an overview for the game reads. “Dominate the competition and unlock rewards through daily missions and themed events inspired by the Squid Game universe.” “Making games based on hit series and films is one of the most exciting opportunities we have at Netflix. We’re thrilled to offer fans a new way to experience the Squid Game universe — one that combines the show’s pulse-pounding action with the immersive thrill of gameplay,” Boss Fight head of creative Bill Jackson reveals. How excited are you to play an official Squid Game title? Squid Game: Unleashed is listed for Android & iOS. Source: Netflix
Anthology Series ‘Secret Level’ Coming To Amazon Prime This December
For a good chunk of 2024, Amazon Prime Video has earned a reputation for being the pinnacle for video game adaptations. This is thanks to the recent Fallout TV series that aired this spring. In July, it was reported that the show was nominated for over a dozen Emmys awards. What’s more, Microsoft even said that the series also increased hours played by 5x normal engagement. On the menu going forward, Amazon is planning to release a Yakuza miniseries later this fall. Releasing in two parts explores the origin of Kazuma Kiryu, the Dragon of Dogima. Additionally, Amazon also officially greenlit another show coming in the next few years. In collaboration with dj2 entertainment, a Tomb Raider live-action show is planned to hit Amazon Prime Video. At Gamescom Opening Night Live, Amazon & Blur Studio reveals a new gaming anthology series Secret Level. The new show incorporates many gaming IPs including God of War, Armored Core, and even Amazons’ New World IP. You can watch the trailer in the video below: “This has been an incredibly fun project to work on with the teams from Amazon MGM Studios and Blur Studio. We’re thrilled to share a brand-new story and introduce more people to the New World universe through Secret Level,” New World game director Scott Lane shared in the press release. Amazon Games vice president Christoph Hartmann adds, “New World: Aeternum is a great example of an IP that has so much potential for adaptation, and we’re excited to see that explored in this episode of Secret Level. “Part of our vision from the beginning is to develop and publish fantastic IPs that immerse and excite players in different worlds, and find opportunities to extend those worlds beyond the games through transmedia opportunities where it makes sense.” Many fans instantly picked out one episode starring Keanu Reeves who will be featured alongside Bandai Namco’s Armored Core series. How excited are you for the Secret Level anthology? Secret Level airs for Amazon Prime Video on December 10, 2024. Source: Amazon
Marvel Rivals officially releases December 6, 2024
NetEase announced that free-to-play team-based multiplayer third-person shooter, Marvel Rivals is officially slated to launch December 6, 2024, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. With the release date announcement, it was also revealed Captain America and the Winter Soldier will come to Marvel Rivals as playable characters. Marvel Rivals Key Features: A Deep and Varied Marvel Roster – Choose from a vast array of fan-favorite and cult-classic Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains from across the Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy, X-Men, and many more from across the Marvel Multiverse. Fast and Fun Six-versus-Six Action with Ever-Changing Game Dynamics – With intricate environments, fast-paced gameplay, and ever-changing battlefields, there’s never a dull moment in Marvel Rivals! Battle as Super Heroes and Super Villains with incredible abilities and combine your powers to bring unexpected fun to the battlefield in a matter of seconds. Dynamic Hero Synergy – Coordinate unique combinations between characters to ignite surprising Team-Up Skills! Unleash the synergy of combined superpowers and invent new tactics that can turn the tide of combat. Ride on Groot’s back as Rocket Raccoon to take on your enemies as a dangerous duo, unleash Gamma energy as Hulk to charge Iron Man’s armor for massive damage, and so much more! Creative Environment Destruction – Tear your way through iconic Marvel worlds across destructible environments! From Asgard to the Tokyo of 2099, use superpowers to alter these environments, reshape the terrain, and craft a strategic advantage on the battlefield! Take cover to dodge attacks or use makeshift weapons to strike down enemies. Players will find countless ways to utilize the environment to claim victory! Continually Evolving Universe and Robust Post-Launch Updates – The Marvel Multiverse brings infinite possibilities! Each seasonal drop will introduce new superheroes to the battlefield along with challenging and diverse maps! Unlock new content to implement across various gameplay strategies while experiencing thrilling action and endless possibilities in these adventurous team battles!
