Tag: game pass

Microsoft surprises everyone by adding one of last year's brightest action games to Game Pass

Microsoft has surprised gamers by adding Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii to the Game Pass catalog without prior announcement. This new title, developed by SEGA and RGG Studio, is presented as a direct spin-off of Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth, released in 2024. In this installment, players focus on the popular character Goro Majima, who finds himself in Hawaii after a shipwreck that erases his memory, including his own name. The Yakuza become pirates In terms of gameplay, Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii returns to the real-time combat that characterizes the saga, […]

Microsoft has surprised gamers by adding Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii to the Game Pass catalog without prior announcement. This new title, developed by SEGA and RGG Studio, is presented as a direct spin-off of Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth, released in 2024. In this installment, players focus on the popular character Goro Majima, who finds himself in Hawaii after a shipwreck that erases his memory, including his own name.

The Yakuza Become Pirates

In terms of gameplay, Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii returns to the real-time combat that characterizes the saga, offering more direct and spectacular fighting dynamics. A highlighted aspect is the inclusion of two differentiated combat styles: Mad Dog, which focuses on speed and precision, and Sea Dog, which emphasizes a more tactical and pirate approach when facing enemies. This duality promises to encourage creativity in players’ combat strategies.

Apart from the intense fights that can be experienced, the title also incorporates mini-games and naval battles, features that enrich the experience. The real-time piracy sections allow players to maneuver their ships and engage in epic boardings, in an environment that fluctuates between criminal chaos and treasure adventures. The narrative follows Majima and Noah, a young man who helps him in his quest for memories, as they navigate through conflicts and rivals in a vibrant and unconventional setting for the saga.

This unexpected release becomes one of the highlights of the month on Game Pass, adding a new layer of fun and craziness to a franchise already known for its uniqueness and appeal. This reinforces Microsoft’s trend of surprising its gaming community with unexpected additions to its subscription service.

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Ubisoft closes one of its regional hubs after a catastrophic 2025

The video game industry is at a critical moment, especially in the Triple A project sector, where many companies are making significant adjustments. In this context, Ubisoft has faced a difficult week, marked by staff reductions in several of its studios, including Massive Entertainment and Ubisoft Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi is the most affected; Ubisoft Abu Dhabi, which was founded in 2011 as a “regional hub” for the development and adaptation of video games, had more than 60 employees. However, staff cuts began in December 2025 and […]

The video game industry is at a critical moment, especially in the Triple A project sector, where many companies are making significant adjustments. In this context, Ubisoft has faced a difficult week, marked by staff reductions in several of its studios, including Massive Entertainment and Ubisoft Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi is the big loser

Ubisoft Abu Dhabi, which was founded in 2011 as a “regional hub” for the development and adaptation of video games, had more than 60 employees. However, staff cuts began in December 2025 and intensified in January 2026, although the company has not yet issued an official statement regarding this. Several former employees have confirmed the layoffs through posts on LinkedIn.

This round of cuts adds to the recent news of the closure of the studio in Halifax, Canada, and adjustments at other locations such as Massive Entertainment and Ubisoft Stockholm. These decisions are part of a broader restructuring strategy within the French company, a measure that has raised concerns in the gaming community and within the industry. However, Ubisoft continues to maintain good relations with Saudi Arabia, which has made investments in the company through the Public Investment Fund (PIF).

Despite these tumultuous times, there is a ray of hope. The recent release of Star Wars: Outlaws on Game Pass could provide Ubisoft with a way to improve its situation. This suitable availability of the game on the popular subscription platform could not only facilitate user retention, but also provide a great opportunity to showcase one of the most appealing open worlds the company has created, marking a milestone in the Star Wars franchise.

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Cool Shirtz launches a collaboration with Minecraft that will leave you speechless

Cool Shirtz has launched a collaboration with Minecraft that has sparked great interest, selling out almost completely on its website in a short period of time. Currently, there are fewer than ten pieces available, reflecting the excitement this collection has generated among fans of the iconic video game. A great passion for the original game Scott Guthrie, founder and creative director of Cool Shirtz, has expressed his deep appreciation for Minecraft, a game he considers a “love letter” to the moments of happiness it has provided him over the years. Guthrie emphasized […]

Cool Shirtz has launched a collaboration with Minecraft that has sparked great interest, selling out almost completely on its website in a short period of time. Currently, there are fewer than ten pieces available, reflecting the excitement this collection has generated among fans of the iconic video game.

A great passion for the original game

Scott Guthrie, founder and creative director of Cool Shirtz, has expressed his deep appreciation for Minecraft, a game he considers a “love letter” to the moments of happiness it has provided him over the years. Guthrie emphasized that the idea of creating a collection inspired by the game arose from his desire to represent unique and beloved elements within the Minecraft universe.

The design of the collection was a collaborative effort focused on various aspects of the game. The first piece developed was the Enderman hoodie, which set the tone for the rest of the line. Other standout items include the Axolotl Ushanka, which has been particularly well received by fans, and the “Monsters Nearby” hoodie, which captures the eerie atmosphere of the game.

Although Cool Shirtz has had tremendous success with this collaboration, Guthrie mentioned that the demand from other gaming communities is high, which could motivate future collaborations. Although he did not reveal specific details, he indicated that his focus will continue to be the true passion for video games.

The brand, known for its bold and cartoonish designs, has found a natural synergy between its style and the colorful world of Minecraft. Far from considering this first collaboration as a conclusion, Guthrie anticipates that there are still many aspects of the Minecraft universe to explore. A restock of items is scheduled for early 2026, suggesting that the bond between Cool Shirtz and Minecraft could tighten even further.

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According to Xbox, 79% of video game developers want help from AI, but the survey has a catch

A recent report published by Xbox, prepared by Edelman Data & Intelligence and commissioned by Microsoft, reveals that a notable 79% of respondents are open to receiving help from artificial intelligence (AI) in the realm of video games. This figure, less emphasized in Xbox’s official communication, suggests a significant interest among players in integrating AI into their gaming experiences. However, the exact definition of what is meant by “AI help” remains unclear, and Microsoft has been contacted to clarify the terms. There is a possibility that […]

A recent report published by Xbox, prepared by Edelman Data & Intelligence and commissioned by Microsoft, reveals that a notable 79% of respondents are open to receiving help from artificial intelligence (AI) in the realm of video games. This figure, less highlighted in Xbox’s official communication, suggests a significant interest among players in integrating AI into their gaming experiences. However, the exact definition of what is meant by “AI assistance” remains unclear, and Microsoft has been contacted to clarify the terms. There is a possibility that this ranges from AI companions offering helpful tips to more advanced applications that could play on behalf of the user.

A survey without a reliable basis

The survey, which included 1,500 adult players in the U.S. and was conducted between June 25 and July 2, 2025, also reveals that 68% of participants believe that video games are more emotionally rewarding than other hobbies. Three out of four players feel that they are doing something meaningful while playing, highlighting the importance of video games as a means of social and emotional connection. Additionally, 60% of respondents stated that they have forged lasting friendships through gaming.

Among the different groups analyzed, 87% of Xbox owners stated that gaming is one of their main hobbies and an integral part of their identity. This data contrasts with the recent 29% drop in Xbox hardware revenue, while revenue from content and services, such as Game Pass, showed only a 1% growth. This stagnation in growth could be related to a decrease in first-party content offered by the platform.

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Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, reacts to the announcement of the new Steam machine: he is not afraid of Valve

The coming years will be crucial for the video game industry, which is facing a prolonged crisis. In this context, the major companies in the sector are revealing their plans for the next generation of consoles. One of the most notable announcements is from Valve, which has introduced the Steam Machine, a device that promises to compete with next-generation consoles like the PS5 and the upcoming Xbox. Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, believes it is positive to have competition and celebrated the launch of the Steam Machine through a message on Twitter, highlighting the importance of offering diverse options

The coming years will be crucial for the video game industry, which is facing a prolonged crisis. In this context, the major companies in the sector are revealing their plans for the next generation of consoles. One of the most notable announcements is from Valve, which has introduced the Steam Machine, a device that promises to compete with next-generation consoles like the PS5 and the upcoming Xbox.

Do you think it’s positive to have competition

Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, celebrated the launch of Steam Machine through a message on Twitter, highlighting the importance of offering diverse gaming options and the openness of platforms. Spencer emphasized that “gaming advances when there are more ways to play,” noting that Xbox has positioned itself as one of the largest publishers on Steam by releasing multiple titles annually.

The Steam Machine is a mini-PC designed for 4K gaming with SteamOS, surpassing the Steam Deck in power with performance described as six times greater. On the other hand, the new Xbox is shaping up to be a high-end product, with an estimated price between 800 and 1000 euros and a unified experience thanks to the Game Pass service. Both devices are aimed at the same players looking to game comfortably from the living room.

Despite the competition in hardware, Valve and Microsoft also maintain a collaboration that benefits users through game releases on Steam, which has been essential for enhancing the gaming experience. However, the future of these platforms will depend on the performance they can offer, especially in the multiplayer realm, where Windows has an advantage in terms of compatibility and anti-cheat functionality.

The battle for the console and PC market is intensifying, but the real question is how these advancements will benefit players in terms of options and prices.

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These are the video games leaving Game Pass in November 2025

In the last two years, Microsoft has made questionable decisions regarding its subscription service, Xbox Game Pass, which has affected its popularity despite an overall improvement in the catalog. One of the most criticized changes has been the significant price increase of the subscription, which has generated discontent among users. Recently, Microsoft confirmed that four titles will leave the service on November 16: Frostpunk, Football Manager 2024, Spirittea, and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl. Game Pass, the most criticized service in the world This situation is particularly crucial for those players who […]

In the last two years, Microsoft has made questionable decisions regarding its subscription service, Xbox Game Pass, which has affected its popularity despite an overall improvement in the catalog.

One of the most criticized changes has been the significant increase in subscription price, which has generated discontent among users.

Recently, Microsoft has confirmed that four titles will leave the service on November 16: Frostpunk, Football Manager 2024, Spirittea, and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl.

Game Pass, the most criticized service in the world

This situation is particularly crucial for those players who have invested time in these titles, as it is recommended that they finish their games before the release date, since this affects both console and PC versions.

The case of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 is remarkable, as despite having a problematic launch a year ago, the game has established itself as a sales success.

The title is expected to be relaunched on PlayStation 5 on November 20 with improvements and additional content, just as it leaves the Game Pass catalog. Those who wish to purchase S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 can benefit from a 20% discount before it leaves the service, bringing the price down to 47.99 euros.

It is relevant to mention that players who purchase any of the titles that are about to be released from Game Pass will be able to recover their progress, as the saved games will remain in their account. This aspect allows for a smoother transition for users who wish to continue their gaming experience without losing their progress.

You can't play two of the best RPGs in history on Game Pass due to a very rare bug

In recent weeks, Xbox Game Pass has been at the center of controversy following the recent price increase that, although it has improved some aspects of the service, has generated discontent among its users. This discomfort has intensified with the disappointing absence of the expected titles: Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition and Baldur’s Gate 2: Enhanced Edition, which were supposed to arrive in the PC Game Pass catalog on October 9. At Microsoft, out to lunch Despite being promised dates by Microsoft, PC players have not been able to access these iconic RPGs. In the subreddit […]

In recent weeks, Xbox Game Pass has been at the center of controversy following the recent price increase that, although it has improved some aspects of the service, has generated discontent among its users. This dissatisfaction has intensified with the disappointing absence of the expected titles: Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition and Baldur’s Gate 2: Enhanced Edition, which were supposed to arrive in the PC Game Pass catalog on October 9.

At Microsoft, going for grapes

Despite being promised dates by Microsoft, PC players have been unable to access these iconic RPGs. On the Xbox Game Pass subreddit, several users have expressed their frustration, indicating that the games simply do not appear in the PC Game Pass app or in the store. “If you go to the store page, it basically doesn’t exist,” commented one player, reflecting the general confusion. This type of situation contrasts with the previous experience when both titles were available on console and through the cloud.

Game Pass Ultimate users can play through the cloud, but PC Game Pass subscribers are still waiting for a solution. This lack of communication from Microsoft has increased frustration, especially after the price hike that was expected to bring improvements to the service. Without an official clarification regarding the absence of these games, the community remains hopeful, but increasingly disillusioned.

In a broader context, the failure to meet deadlines has led some to question the value of the subscription. While a wider range of titles is expected to arrive in the coming months, the discomfort caused by errors and the lack of promised titles in Game Pass could have a significant impact on user loyalty.

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Game Pass announces the first batch of games for October, including two classic RPGs and the most anticipated action game of the year

The first batch of games for Game Pass has already been announced, and among the highlighted titles are Ninja Gaiden 2 Black and Ninja Gaiden 4. In total, 12 releases have been confirmed between October 8 and October 21, providing subscribers with a varied offering that includes RPGs, action and adventure games, as well as simulators. Between Ninja Gaiden and Baldur’s Gate, something is sure to convince you. The Premium plan of Game Pass is also enriched with the arrival of classic titles, such as Baldur’s Gate and Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Editions, which undoubtedly increase the value […]

The first batch of games for Game Pass has been announced, and among the highlighted titles are Ninja Gaiden 2 Black and Ninja Gaiden 4. In total, 12 releases have been confirmed between October 8 and October 21, providing subscribers with a varied offering that includes RPGs, action and adventure games, as well as simulators.

Between Ninja Gaiden and Baldur’s Gate, something will surely convince you

The Premium plan of Game Pass is also enriched with the arrival of classic titles, such as Baldur’s Gate and Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Editions, which undoubtedly increase the value of the service. Users who choose this plan will also find Eternal Strands, a new action-adventure game that promises to capture the attention of genre enthusiasts.

With a dynamic catalog, Game Pass ensures a constant rotation of titles. However, it also means that some games will say goodbye. On October 15, three titles will leave the service, giving players the opportunity to purchase them with a 20% discount before their removal. This strategy allows users to make the most of their subscription before some of their favorite gaming experiences disappear.

In addition to the lineup of new games, Game Pass is designed to provide an integrated experience that includes not only the ability to play on consoles and PCs but also in the cloud, offering greater flexibility to players. Subscribers will also be able to enjoy rewards and DLCs for popular titles like Grounded 2 and Diablo IV. As the gaming community opens new doors with these releases, anticipation grows about what surprises are in store for Halloween.

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Xbox Game Pass announces another 10 new games for its subscribers

Xbox Game Pass, the popular subscription service from Microsoft, has revealed a series of significant changes that will impact its gaming community in the first half of October 2025. Among the most notable updates are the introduction of two new plans: Essential and Premium, and a price increase for Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions. Additionally, the service’s catalog will be expanded with 45 additional titles. More games for you to play The update will allow subscribers to access 12 new experiences, including iconic games like Baldur’s Gate, ideal for the […]

Xbox Game Pass, the popular subscription service from Microsoft, has revealed a series of significant changes that will impact its gaming community in the first half of October 2025. Among the most notable updates are the introduction of two new plans: Essential and Premium, and a price increase for Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions. Additionally, the service’s catalog will be expanded with 45 additional titles.

More games you can play

The update will allow subscribers to access 12 new experiences, which include iconic games like Baldur’s Gate, ideal for fans of fantasy RPGs, and more dynamic titles like Ball x Pit, as well as the highly anticipated releases Keeper and Ninja Gaiden 4. This enhancement to the catalog aims to attract both new users and those who are already part of the service.

Despite the price increase, Microsoft has clarified that this measure will not affect all its subscribers. Only new users or those who do not have automatic renewal enabled will see an increase in their monthly fee. This strategy seems designed to maintain the loyalty of many current subscribers in Europe, who will not feel the impact of the increase.

For days, Xbox Game Pass has dominated conversations in the gaming community, and this announcement joins the series of changes that the service has recently implemented. Microsoft’s strategy, which has been communicated in bits and pieces, suggests that the company aims to consolidate its position in the competitive video game subscription market. The inclusion of high-quality titles and the focus on retaining current users are key elements in its recent approach, which could cement its continued success in the sector.

Xbox changes the Game Pass model, generating tremendous dissatisfaction among users

The recent changes in the Microsoft Rewards program have generated a wave of discontent among Xbox fans, especially those who were accumulating points in the hope of redeeming them for months of Game Pass. In an unexpected turn, starting October 1, users can no longer redeem their points directly for Game Pass subscriptions, one of the most anticipated and used rewards. Much more expensive and much worse Instead, points must now be converted into Xbox gift cards, which has brought with it a lower value per point compared to […]

The recent changes to the Microsoft Rewards program have generated a wave of discontent among Xbox fans, especially those who were accumulating points in the hope of redeeming them for months of Game Pass. In an unexpected turn, since October 1st, users can no longer redeem their points directly for Game Pass subscriptions, one of the most anticipated and used rewards.

Much more expensive and much worse

Instead, points must now be converted into Xbox gift cards, which has resulted in a lower value per point compared to the previous redemption. Additionally, the balance generated from this conversion has an expiration of 90 days if not used, which creates greater pressure for consumers. The news came after a previous message on the official Microsoft Rewards support account, where a gift card sale for October was announced, initially generating optimism among users.

This adjustment coincides with a recent increase in the price of Game Pass and has been implemented to align the points accumulation method with the different subscription plans: Essential, Premium, and Ultimate. Users with higher subscriptions will be able to accumulate points at a more favorable rate, while those on lower plans will see a lower return, which has generated criticism considering that many felt encouraged to save for months. As a result, a significant number of players feel that the value of their points has decreased drastically.

Despite the controversy, the “gift card sale” scheduled for October is expected to provide some relief. However, uncertainty persists among users, who may now question the effectiveness of the Microsoft Rewards program as a loyalty tool.

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