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Age verification now mandatory for Xbox accounts in the UK

Microsoft has announced that it will begin requiring age verification for Xbox players who indicate their age as 18 in their accounts. Starting early next year, age verification will be needed to access social features on the acco...

Rohith Bhaskar, 28 Jul 2025 20:32

Xbox Gamescom 2025 banner with Hornet from Hollow Knight: Silksong (Image source: Xbox Wire, Team Cherry with edits)

Hollow Knight: Silksong will be playable at Gamescom 2025, as wait for release date news continues

Since its 2019 announcement, Hollow Knight: Silksong news has leaked at a slow pace. Microsoft just revealed it will host a playable demo of the title at Gamescom 2025. The company previously claimed that the Silksong release date...

Adam Corsetti, 28 Jul 2025 16:19

Brave browser blocks Windows Recall screenshotting feature

The Brave browser, a web browser focused on user privacy, claims it is able to fully block the Recall feature in Windows 11 from taking screenshots of browser windows. The new block setting is enabled by default, although users ca...

Sam Medley, 25 Jul 2025 18:06

The Outer Worlds 2 and Ninja Gaiden 4 Xbox retail boxes are shown (Image source: PNP Games)

Microsoft to release The Outer Worlds 2 and other Xbox games on discs, after backtracking on $80 prices

With many first-party Switch 2 and PS5 games shipping on physical media, Xbox supporters aren't so lucky. Still, The Outer Worlds 2 and Ninja Gaiden 4 may reverse Microsoft's movement toward digital releases. Contradicting earlier...

Adam Corsetti, 25 Jul 2025 01:22

Xbox and Switch 2 logos stacked side by side (Image source: Microsoft Xbox Gaming, Nintendo of America with edits)

Microsoft could announce Xbox Switch 2 games and more PS5 ports within weeks, according to insider

Even after Phil Spencer hinted that Xbox games would arrive on the Switch 2, Nintendo fans continue to wait. The Game Business predicts that official announcements could come within a matter of weeks. With improved Switch 2 specs,...

Adam Corsetti, 24 Jul 2025 17:15

Analyst no longer predicts massive Xbox Game Pass growth, citing PS5 games as hurting the service

Pessimism continues to build over Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass strategy. Michael Pachter believes that a lack of console sales will negatively impact the subscription service. Offering Xbox games on the PS5 and other platforms also ...

Adam Corsetti, 23 Jul 2025 21:48

Microsoft may introduce standalone Xbox Cloud Gaming subscriptions with tier-specific games

Gamers who rely on streaming may no longer have to subscribe to Game Pass Ultimate. A Better xCloud leak hints that Microsoft could unveil separate Xbox Cloud Gaming plans. Some third-party and Xbox exclusive games would only be a...

Adam Corsetti, 23 Jul 2025 16:49

A Steam Deck displaying the SteamOS home screen lies on a glowing white desk next to various Windows-based handheld gaming PCs, including the ASUS ROG Ally and Ayaneo devices. (Image source: Notebookcheck)

Steam Deck 2 and Valve home console in the works as quiet Sony partnership hints at strategic alliance

Valve may be gearing up for a major hardware expansion, with speculation around a Steam Deck 2 and a dedicated home console gaining traction. A recent podcast discussion also hints at a quiet but strategic alignment between Valve ...

Anmol Dubey, 23 Jul 2025 09:29

The Surface Laptop 5G will be released in August and available only to business customers. (Image source: Microsoft)

Microsoft launches Surface Laptop 5G with eSIM and Nano SIM support, starting at $1799

First revealed in late January, Microsoft has announced the Surface Laptop 5G for business. The laptop will be available in August and will have a physical SIM card tray in addition to eSIM support.

Habeeb Onawole, 23 Jul 2025 00:56

No Rest for the Wicked artwork with Xbox consoles below (Image source: Moon Studios, Microsoft Gaming with edits)

No Rest for the Wicked studio isn't prioritizing the Series X, as Xbox console strategy remains unclear

Gamers could find fewer titles releasing on the Xbox Series X|S. The Moon Studios co-founder hinted that No Rest for the Wicked may not come to Microsoft's gaming systems. Although a delay is more likely, confusion exists about th...

Adam Corsetti, 21 Jul 2025 21:46

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle was widely considered a success by gamers and critics alike when it released in December 2024 (image source: Machine Games)

Indiana Jones' critical success did not translate to large profits as Machine Games reports 6% margins

The news comes at a time when profitability is of paramount importance for most Microsoft-owned studios even as waves of layoffs continue to affect employee morale.

Rahim Amir Noorali, 21 Jul 2025 21:10

Latest Windows 11 Insider Preview build lets you output audio to many devices simultaneously. (Image source: Microsoft, edited)

Hidden Windows 11 feature finally enables audio sharing to multiple devices

Participants of the Windows Insider program have discovered a hidden Shared Audio feature in the latest test build of Windows 11 that allows simultaneous audio playback on multiple devices.

Anton Avdyushkin, 21 Jul 2025 18:49

A promotional image for WhatsApp on Windows 11 showing off the chat user interface against a beige colored background. (Image Source: Microsoft Store)

WhatsApp ditches native Windows 11 app in favor of Microsoft WebView2

A new update for WhatsApp Beta has replaced the native Windows 11 version of the app with a heavier, more hungry WebView2-based wrapper to bring it more in line with the default browser experience.

Rohith Bhaskar, 21 Jul 2025 14:11

New Microsoft SharePoint exploit patched in emergency security update

Microsoft has rushed out an emergency patch to block two zero-day exploits that have compromised SharePoint servers worldwide.

Rohith Bhaskar, 21 Jul 2025 12:01

The 2025 Blade 18 (Image source: Notebookcheck)

Do you really need 440 Hz? Why the new dual-mode display of the Razer Blade 18 is a downgrade for many users

Razer equips the new Blade 18 with a so called dual-mode display, where you can change the frequency from 240 Hz in 4K to 440 Hz in Full-HD. But does that really make sense, or should this have been an optional screen?

Andreas Osthoff, 20 Jul 2025 09:34

Nintendo of America offices in Redmond, Washington pictured (Image source: Nintendo of America with edits)

Nintendo touts high employee retention rate after loss of Microsoft jobs rocks Xbox Game Studios

Workers should feel more secure in their Nintendo jobs than with positions at Xbox Game Studios. Statistics confirm that Nintendo's employee turnover rate is well below industry averages. Analysts believe that the company's rigid ...

Adam Corsetti, 19 Jul 2025 22:26

Comparison of Standard and Neural Materials shows Nvidia can greatly cut VRAM needs for games. (Image source: Nvidia, edited)

Massive performance boost with 90% less VRAM usage—early tests suggest future Nvidia and DirectX AI-magic can bring significant improvements for gamers

As became increasingly clear, GPUs with 8GB VRAM are struggling heavily in some modern games with some settings. Whether due to the lack of proper game optimizations or the reluctance of major manufacturers to include more VRAM in...

Anton Avdyushkin, 18 Jul 2025 03:48

The fourth-gen MBUX will integrate Microsoft apps into the new CLA (Image source: Mercedes-Benz)

More Microsoft integration in Mercedes-Benz

Microsoft and Mercedes-Benz are deepening their partnership with plans to transform cars into mobile workspaces that go beyond traditional office settings. Leading the way is the new Mercedes CLA, which will become the first vehic...

Matthias Zellmer, 17 Jul 2025 13:59

A retro video game console, the Atari 2600, photographed against a plain white background. (Image Source: Evan-Amos on Wikimedia Commons)

Modern LLM vs 1970s Atari: Gemini admits it can't win, walks away

After defeating ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, the vintage Atari 2600 claims victory against Google's Gemini without making a single move.

Rohith Bhaskar, 15 Jul 2025 12:37

Xbox Graphics LinkedIn ad graphic with backwards monitor screen (Image source: Mike Matsel LinkedIn account)

Xbox Gaming LinkedIn ad using generative AI causes scrutiny after recent Microsoft job cuts

A LinkedIn ad for an Xbox Graphics role ironically uses generative AI, showing a backwards-facing monitor. Following layoffs that affected multiple studios, Microsoft may replace more employees with AI. Several Xbox executives fac...

Adam Corsetti, 14 Jul 2025 17:56

An Xbox dashboard screenshot showing a Call of Duty: Mobile ad featuring Gundam mechs with the caption “Gundams have landed.” (Reddit/u/Critical_Term_1013 via r/xbox)

Xbox users reportedly frustrated by mobile game ads on console dashboard

Players question the logic of promoting non-console titles like Call of Duty: Mobile on Xbox, reigniting debates around ads on premium gaming systems.

Anmol Dubey, 13 Jul 2025 09:35

The cheapest Xbox Game Pass membership costs $9.99 per month. (Image source: Microsoft, Unsplash, edited)

Eye-watering Xbox Game Pass per-game cost leaks: Microsoft reportedly spends more than $50 million for some games

Xbox Game Pass apparently requires tremendous capital to run. According to new information that has surfaced online, it costs Microsoft more than $50 million to put some games on Game Pass. While we don't know what games cost this...

Fawad Murtaza, 11 Jul 2025 14:13

Windows 11 banner shown on Microsoft News (Image source: Microsoft News with edits)

The Windows 11 25H2 update enables some users to remove pesky apps and bloatware from the OS

Some default Windows apps may be essential tools, while others exist to annoy. The Windows 11 25H2 update, currently in testing, empowers users to remove bloatware more easily. However, the tweaks depend on the Group Policy Editor...

Adam Corsetti, 09 Jul 2025 17:55

Left to Right: PS5 Slim, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch. (Image source: Amazon, edited)

Console and accessory sales continue to decline as May saw 13% lower investments

The latest data from Circana shows a continued decline in current gen console hardware and accessories. The PS5, however, remained the best-selling console in terms of units and dollars.

Vineet Washington, 09 Jul 2025 17:45

Next gen Xbox could launch in 2027 without any backwards compatibility. (Image source: Microsoft/Amazon, edited)

More bad Xbox news: Leaker warns gamers that next Xbox console might not be backwards compatible with older consoles

Xbox has been on the receiving end of serious criticism these past few days due to some quite controversial decisions. Xbox fans could be in for more shocking developments, as Moore's Law Is Dead has sounded the alarm regarding ba...

Fawad Murtaza, 09 Jul 2025 14:03

Vault Boy artwork from Fallout 4 shown (Image source: Epic Games with edits)

Microsoft reportedly focusing on new Fallout games and remasters after Xbox Studios upheaval

Several Xbox games in development may reward patient Fallout fanatics. Fallout 3 Remastered remains in the pipeline, while other spinoffs and sequels are possible. A recent podcast has confirmed that Fallout 5 is unlikely to arriv...

Adam Corsetti, 08 Jul 2025 18:00

Xbox Game Pass Standard banner is shown (Image source: Xbox Wire)

Update | Microsoft accused of misrepresenting Xbox Game Pass profits by ignoring game development costs

With so many day-one Xbox Game Pass games, some analysts question if the service is profitable. There are now indications that Microsoft hasn't considered all the expenses in its calculations. Update: New source claims Game Pass i...

Adam Corsetti, 08 Jul 2025 14:03

Microsoft's Xbox division might be the victim of overstated expectations from the company (image source: Xbox YT)

Microsoft's Xbox division under pressure with "unrealistic" financial targets: insider

The Xbox division's recent layoffs might also be linked to 'unrealistic' expectations from C-level executives at Microsoft.

Rahim Amir Noorali, 07 Jul 2025 21:54

A PC running Windows 11, which has become the most popular desktop OS in the world. (Image source: Lenovo)

Windows 11 finally overtakes Windows 10 as world’s top desktop OS

Windows 11 has officially surpassed Windows 10 to become the world’s most popular desktop OS, now running on 52% of all Windows PCs. The milestone comes just months before Windows 10’s end of support, marking a major shift as Micr...

Andrew Sozinov, 07 Jul 2025 17:50

The shutdown affects as many as 100 employees that the studio had currently employed (image source: Romero Games)

Romero Games reportedly shuts down after Microsoft pulls funding for its AAA game

The move is part of a broad-based set of layoffs from Microsoft that affected Xbox Game Studios considerably more than most of its other divisions.

Rahim Amir Noorali, 06 Jul 2025 04:19

Banner showing day-one Xbox Game Pass games (Image source: Xbox Wire)

Arkane Studios founder suggests day-one Xbox Game Pass games contributed to loss of Microsoft jobs

Some critics claim that Xbox Game Pass played a role in Microsoft closing more game studios. Raphael Colantonio, the founder of Arkane Studios, doesn't think the service benefits developers. As day-one Xbox Game Pass games attract...

Adam Corsetti, 05 Jul 2025 22:00

The trailer consisted of in-game footage as per level designer Adam McDonald (image source: Xbox YT)

Former Perfect Dark Reboot developer breaks silence on "Fakery" claims

The controversy surrounding the Perfect Dark reboot's gameplay trailer gets further context thanks to new revelations of a level designer working on the game.

Rahim Amir Noorali, 04 Jul 2025 20:12

Xbox exec's AI career advice garners backlash in the games industry following layoffs

The suggestions were termed both, tone deaf and insensitive especially in the light of wide-spread layoffs at the tech giant.

Rahim Amir Noorali, 04 Jul 2025 18:06

Call of Duty: WW2 banner (Image source: Xbox Wire)

Call of Duty: WW2 players are being hacked by RCE exploit after shooter debuts on Xbox Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass can breathe new life into titles with dwindling support. Unfortunately, overlooked security concerns for Call of Duty: WW2 have resurfaced. The RCE exploit allows hackers to assume control of another player's PC.

Adam Corsetti, 04 Jul 2025 01:18

As many as 40 games are still in active development despite layoffs earlier this week at Microsoft (image source: Xbox)

Xbox Game Studios Head confirms 40+ Xbox games still in development amid Microsoft layoffs

It is business as usual at Xbox Game Studios despite layoffs as per an internal memo sent to staff earlier this week.

Rahim Amir Noorali, 03 Jul 2025 19:27

Phil Spencer (left), Sarah Bond (middle), and Matt Booty (right) in an Xbox podcast. (Image source: Xbox on YouTube)

Report: Microsoft tying to move towards AI agents amid mass layoffs

The mass layoffs at Microsoft have shut down a lot of upcoming projects and dismantled several established development teams. One developer has now stated that the company is looking to replace its workforce with AI agents whereve...

Vineet Washington, 03 Jul 2025 17:26

Microsoft lays off 9000 employees, Xbox division hit hard

Microsoft is cutting 9000 more jobs as part of a major restructuring, with its Xbox and gaming divisions among the hardest hit. The layoffs mark another major workforce reduction as the company seeks to streamline operations despi...

Andrew Sozinov, 02 Jul 2025 19:33

After the release of Windows 11 Update 25H2, support will be reset to 2 and 3 years. (Image source: Microsoft)

Switching to Windows 12 may be delayed by at least a year

Windows has just released the new Windows 11 25H2 update for insiders. The support timeframe will also be reset: Windows 11 will receive two more years of support and security updates for Home and Pro versions, and three years for...

Marc Zander, 01 Jul 2025 21:37

This is an Xbox marketing banner (Image source: Xbox Wire)

Former Microsoft executive criticizes confusing Xbox branding and suggests abandoning console development

An influential figure in Xbox gaming history doesn't see much clarity in his former employer's current approach. Mike Ybarra believes that Microsoft should focus on multi-platform Xbox games and services rather than hardware. Even...

Adam Corsetti, 29 Jun 2025 22:26

Microsoft claims Windows 11 is up to 2.3x faster than Windows 10, but benchmark uses different gen CPUs

A new Microsoft blog post suggests a massive performance boost after a Windows 10 upgrade to Windows 11. Sadly, the Geekbench 6 test used to support the claim includes older and newer Intel CPUs. With other benchmarks yielding les...

Adam Corsetti, 28 Jun 2025 21:04

Turn 10 Studios and Playground Games logos (Image source: Turn 10 Studios, Playground Games)

Microsoft is rumored to cut up to 2000 Xbox Gaming jobs, with Forza Motorsport and potentially Horizon studios impacted

Gamers may see future first-party Xbox games developed by fewer studios. Microsoft appears ready to cut up to 2000 Xbox Gaming positions. Turn 10 and Playground Games, the developers of Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon titles, c...

Adam Corsetti, 26 Jun 2025 20:57

Hellblade II Enhanced Edition, official teaser pictured is now coming to the Sony PlayStation 5 (image source: Xbox Game Studios)

Hellblade 2 announced for PlayStation 5 as Enhanced Edition comes to existing platforms

Ninja Theory's critically acclaimed title will be playable on the Sony PlayStation 5 at the same time as other platforms get a free visual and performance upgrade for 2025

Rahim Amir Noorali, 26 Jun 2025 14:20

Microsoft Surface Pro 12 (image source: Notebookcheck)

Microsoft's Surface Pro 12-inch is compact, manages long battery runtimes and is silent

Microsoft's new 12-inch Surface Pro is a pretty unique convertible right now, because the Snapdragon X Plus SoC is cooled passively and still offers sufficient performance for everyday use. The battery runtime is also good, but th...

Andreas Osthoff, 25 Jun 2025 19:54

PlayStation Plus banner (Image source: Sony PlayStation)

PlayStation still won't launch first-party games day-one on PS Plus like Xbox Game Pass

Some PlayStation fans may be envious of the barrage of first-party Xbox Game Pass games. Still, Sony has no intention of adding more exclusives to PS Plus immediately. A new interview with a PlayStation executive sheds light on wh...

Adam Corsetti, 25 Jun 2025 17:44

As Microsoft Gaming cuts more jobs, Xbox consoles and games may disappear in parts of Europe

Buyers in Central Europe may soon find even fewer Xbox games and consoles on store shelves. Accompanying the Microsoft Gaming job cuts, the company plans to shut down some distribution networks. Xbox now favors cross-platform digi...

Adam Corsetti, 25 Jun 2025 00:27

Unreal Engine 5.6 offers better performance than version 5.4. (Image source: Official image of Unreal Engine)

Unreal Engine 5.6 significantly improves graphics performance compared to version 5.4

A comparison was made between version 5.6 of Unreal Engine and version 5.4, highlighting major graphical advances and improved visual rendering.

Alexis Stegmann, 21 Jun 2025 18:47

Next generation Xbox consoles will be powered by AMD silicon. (Image source: Xbox)

Next Xbox console could be over $1,000

With Microsoft allowing multiple storefronts, a known leaker has warned gamers about the possibility of a console that costs over $1,000. Of course, it is complete speculation at this point but there is some reasoning behind it as...

Vineet Washington, 18 Jun 2025 16:33

Asus ROG Xbox Ally X playing Silksong (Image source: Asus Republic of Gamers, Microsoft Gaming with edits)

Hollow Knight: Silksong release date confusion intensifies after rumored ROG Xbox Ally X summer debut

It's still debatable how the upcoming Xbox handheld launch affects the Hollow Knight: Silksong release date. Microsoft claimed that the game would be playable when the ROG Xbox Ally ships. Now, Asus is advertising that one handhel...

Adam Corsetti, 18 Jun 2025 00:03