Xbox’s shifting cloud gaming strategy

This week saw two apparently unrelated stories about the shift in Microsofts cloud gaming strategy. The first to drop was the story by Zac Bowden at Windows Cetral who found details in the patent for the now cancelled Xbox streaming console, condenamed Keystone. All of this was very interesting, especially as both Zac and Jez Corden went on to speculate about the future direction of Microsofts streaming plans laying in software, specifically apps downloaded to Smart TVs.

The very next day Microsoft announced a groundbreaking partnership with Amzon, of all people, to bring Xbox Game Pass Ultimate streaming to Fire TV Sticks. The story was covered by Windows Central here. This is a major win for Xbox as it massively increases the visbility and reach of the streaming platform and must surely put the service in front of millions more customers. Amazon will be keen for users to associate the Fire TV brand with streaming and eventually hope to convert some users over to Luna, its own streaming platform.

Controllers, Controller everywhere

Another two apparently unrelated stories this week bring the use of controllers on PC in to sharp relief. PC players use Xbox controllers. As reported by IGN here there has been significant growth in controller usage among Steam players. This all comes from an internal report produced by Steam. The daily average of controller use has tripled from 5% to 15% since 2018.Among controller users on Steam:

• 59% use Xbox controllers
• 26% use PlayStation controllers
• 10% use Steam Decks

Additionally, 46% of controller sessions utilize Steam Input, Valve’s controller-friendly service. To accommodate this trend, Valve has introduced several features including Big Picture update, a new controller configurator, improved gyro aiming, virtual menus, and enhanced support for various PlayStation and Xbox controllers.Valve has also added support for the new Steam HORIPAD, set to launch in Japan later this summer. While the company discontinued its own Steam Controller in 2019, it has hinted at potentially revisiting the idea of developing its own controller in the future

What does all this tell us about the state of gaming right now and where the balance of power truly lies. It feels like there has never been a better time to be a PC gamer. Xbox exclusive games are almost all released on PC now, and Sony has begun porting its back catalogue to PC too. With the number of free to play games and games given away for free by the likes of Epic and Steam PC players are spoilt for choice. And with the rise of streaming as core part of gaming life the choice between console and PC is brought in to sharp relief. The big question for us is how many of these controller players were console only and have now moved to being PC only, or PC plus console?

All of which preceeded the news that Steam are partnering to release a Steam branded controller in Japan. Assuming it sells well this could make its way to other markets

The story was picked up by The Verge who speculate that the rise of PC gaming in Japan may be a reason for it launching there first.

While it seems long overdue for Valve to once again have a branded go-to gamepad for Steam and docked Steam Deck use, we’ll have to wait to see if or when it becomes more widely available. Hori’s decision to start sales in its home country makes sense, but it may also speak to the rise of PC gaming in Japan, with handhelds being such a popular choice there that Valve spun up a partnership with an entirely different company for Steam Deck distribution (including in-store availability).

Elden Ring DLC is hard

Anyone expecting this game to be hard on release was not disappointed. The game is hard. Very hard. The backlash online was mixed with some praising the difficulty while others marked it down as unnecessarily hard.

Fortunately for anyone struggling Polygon has released all the playthrough guides youll need.

Stellar blade sells a million

Stellar Blade, a PlayStation 5 exclusive action game developed by Shift Up, has achieved a significant milestone by selling over one million copies. The game, which launched on April 26, 2024, has garnered attention for its sci-fi action and adventure elements inspired by various sources including Alita: Battle Angel and 80s and 90s science fiction.

Is this a disappointing result or par for the course when most players  stick to one or two of the big franchises? Whilst most grown ups look at any game selling a million copies and celebrate the success there have been a vocal group of gamers who pointed to the fact that, whilst a million copies sold is, its only 1.6% of the PlayStation player base, and as such this game should be seen as a flop. The argument goes that a PS exclusive game isnt being played by the majority of PS players. Much of where you stand on this argument depends on your point of view. No matter what it would seem the developer is delighted by these numbers and is planning a sequel and possibly a PC port.

Black Myth: Wukong’s delayed on Xbox consoles. The mystery deepens.

Windows Central reported on the ongoing mystery of the real reason for delaying the hotly anticipated Black Myth: Wukong.

The game which is based on the Chinese novel Journey to the West, has been delayed for Xbox Series X|S consoles. The game was originally scheduled to release on August 20, 2024, for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. However, developer Game Science announced that the Xbox version would be delayed for “optimizations” to meet their quality standards.

Microsoft responded to the delay with a statement, acknowledging their excitement for the game’s eventual launch on Xbox and their ongoing work with Game Science. However, their response also hinted at the possibility of a third-party exclusivity deal, as they mentioned being unable to comment on deals made by partners with other platform holders.The situation has raised questions about whether the delay is truly due to optimization issues or if there might be an exclusivity agreement with PlayStation.

“We’re excited for the launch of Black Myth Wukong on Xbox Series X|S and are working with Game Science to bring the game to our platforms. We can’t comment on the deals made by our partners with other platform holders, but we remain focused on making Xbox the best platform for gamers, and great games are at the center of that.”

Monster Hunter Wilds has Jez excited

Jez Corden reports that from what he has seen of Monster Hunter Wilds the game is shaping up to be a game of the year contender.

 The spectacle and dynamism is everything I hoped for in a Monster Hunter World follow up, elevated from every conceivable angle — at least that’s the impression I have so far. 

I have no doubt that Monster Hunter Wilds will deliver, and take its place as my top game of 2025. Capcom has been so consistent in recent years, and right now, I’m willing to give them every benefit of the doubt. The wait is going to be agonizing. 

• The game features larger, seamlessly connected hunting locales with dynamic weather systems that affect gameplay and monster behavior.
• A new mount called Seikret serves as both transportation and a mobile mini-base, allowing for weapon swaps and item storage.
• Full 4-player co-op with cross-play is included, and Capcom is working to improve the co-op experience.
• The game emphasizes immersion with a deeper focus on story delivery, voiced protagonists, and more detailed NPC interactions

Forza Horizon 4 is going away

Forza Horizon 4, widely considered the best game in the Forza Horizon series, will be delisted on December 15, 2024, due to licensing agreements expiring. After this date, the game and its additional content will no longer be available for purchase on digital platforms or through Game Pass, though it will remain playable for those who already own it.The game is set in a beautifully rendered version of Great Britain, featuring diverse landscapes from the Cotswolds to the Scottish Highlands. Its unique seasonal system transforms the entire map through spring, summer, fall, and winter, affecting both visuals and gameplay.

Forza Horizon 4 showcases Britain’s automotive history, allowing players to drive iconic British vehicles like Minis, London black cabs, and classic Jaguars. The game’s final Festival Playlist series will run from July 25 to August 22, 2024, after which some daily and weekly challenges will continue, and previously exclusive cars will become available through the Backstage Pass system. Microsoft is offering deals on the game before its delisting, with the Ultimate Edition currently 80% off on Steam at $19.99. Given the game’s unique setting and features, it’s recommended for racing game enthusiasts to purchase it while still available