Microsoft used its Xbox Games Showcase to reveal a broad lineup of upcoming games for Xbox consoles and PC, highlighting titles that will appear on Xbox Series X at launch and others coming to Xbox One, PC or exclusively to the new generation.
Halo Infinite leads the showcase
The presentation opened with Halo Infinite, which Microsoft positioned as one of the franchise’s most important entries and a launch title for Xbox Series X. The company released the first gameplay sequence, showing the game’s promised open-world elements and multiple combat approaches.
Viewers noted that the visuals in the streamed demo did not impress everyone, with some comparing them unfavorably to last-generation releases; Microsoft warned that online transmissions can affect image quality. 343 Industries studio head Chris Lee described the project as the studio’s “most ambitious campaign.” Halo Infinite is scheduled to release this year for Xbox One, Xbox Series X and PC.
State of Decay 3 and Game Pass support
State of Decay 3 appeared in a mysterious trailer that follows a lone survivor scavenging resources in an apocalyptic setting. The game will launch simultaneously on Xbox Series X and PC, and subscribers to Xbox Game Pass will be able to play it on day one.
Forza Motorsport reboot aims for realism
The Forza entry shown appears to be a reboot rather than a numbered sequel, using the plain Forza Motorsport name. The trailer highlighted impressive visuals with ray tracing and a 60 fps target. The game is confirmed for Xbox One, Xbox Series X and PC, but no release date was provided.
Rare’s new world: Everwild
Everwild, Rare’s new project, showcased vibrant, colorful environments. The footage followed four characters traversing varied landscapes with the assistance of animal companions. No release date was shared.
Tell Me Why arrives on Game Pass
Tell Me Why, developed in a style visually similar to the studio’s Life Is Strange, will keep an episodic structure. The first episode is set to arrive on Xbox Game Pass on August 27.
Ori update brings Series X performance boost
Ori and the Will of the Wisps is not a new release, but Microsoft showed that studios are preparing enhanced versions for Xbox Series X. Ori will receive a free update enabling 120 fps on the new console; the update will be available to all players who own the Xbox One version.
Outer Worlds DLC release date
The Peril on Gorgon expansion for The Outer Worlds adds new weapons and swords to the game. The DLC will launch on September 9.
Grounded sets players in a backyard battleground
Grounded presents an unusual premise: after some shrinking event, protagonists are miniaturized and must face insects in first-person. The game supports solo and cooperative play and is scheduled for release on July 28.
Avowed, Obsidian’s first-person RPG
Avowed was presented as a new single-player first-person RPG from Obsidian Entertainment. It is planned for Xbox Series X and PC only.
As Dusk Falls: interactive drama exclusive
As Dusk Falls is described as an interactive drama where player choices shape characters’ fates. The title will be exclusive to Xbox Series X.
Hellblade 2 set in Iceland and console-exclusive
Details on Hellblade 2 were limited to its setting in Iceland. Unlike the original, Hellblade 2 will be exclusive to Microsoft consoles.
Psychonauts 2 continues Raz’s story
Psychonauts 2 returns Razputin “Raz” Aquato, who will use his mental powers to confront dark mysteries involving the Psychonauts team and his family origins.
Destiny 2: Beyond Light and Game Pass access
Bungie showcased Destiny 2: Beyond Light, the next chapter in Destiny 2’s science-fiction universe. In September, Destiny 2 will arrive on Xbox Game Pass, giving members access to all current expansions of the standard edition and including access to the standard edition of Beyond Light when it launches in November.
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 heads to next-gen consoles
The sequel to the acclaimed PC S.T.A.L.K.E.R. title will bring its horror-driven setting to a new-generation console.
Warhammer 40,000: Darktide scheduled for 2021
Darktide is a new four-player cooperative game set on the hive world Tertium where players must team up to fight hordes of enemies. The title is due in 2021.
Tetris Effect Connected adds cooperative modes
Tetris Effect Connected expands the classic game with new cooperative multiplayer modes.
The Gunk: puzzle-driven cleanup
The Gunk’s trailer presents a world devastated by an unknown threat; players must clear the contamination while solving puzzles.
The Medium uses dual-reality mechanics
The Medium, a horror game designed to leverage Xbox Series X hardware, will feature two simultaneously generated worlds that players can switch between to solve puzzles.
Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis moves to next-gen
Phantasy Star Online 2: New Genesis brings the online RPG—known for deep character customization and unique combat systems—to the new generation of consoles.
CrossfireX depicts global conflict
CrossfireX is a first-person title that places players in a worldwide conflict between two military factions.
Fable reboot announced
Microsoft closed the showcase with a surprise announcement for a new Fable. Details were sparse, but the trailer suggested familiar moments of levity from earlier series entries. The game is planned for Xbox Series X and PC.
