On June 11, the Xbox Games Showcase 2023 event took place during Geoff Keighley’s notable Summer Game Fest, offering a glimpse into the forthcoming developments of Xbox and Game Pass. Microsoft, having faced challenges in delivering successful titles in recent years, was keen on making a significant impact during this event.
With the disappointment surrounding the release of Redfall this year, the company aimed to assure everyone that Xbox’s future was brimming with highly anticipated games. Notable titles like Fable, Halo, Forza, and more were showcased, captivating the attention of gamers worldwide.
Xbox Games Showcase 2023: Highlights and all announced titles
For a comprehensive overview of all the exciting announcements, reveals, and presentations by Xbox, you can continue reading below. Alternatively, if you prefer a firsthand experience, you can watch the entire Xbox Games Showcase 2023:
Fable
In an amusing and eccentric trailer, viewers were introduced to Dave at Xbox Games Showcase 2023, portrayed by Richard Ayoade, who humorously declared that the era of heroes had come to an end. To everyone’s surprise, Dave transformed into a colossal figure and proceeded to confront the main player character. The trailer provided a brief glimpse of gameplay footage, offering a taste of what to expect. It even flirted with the inclusion of an expletive, before cutting away. While no specific release date was revealed, it was confirmed that the game would be available on Game Pass from its launch day.
South of Midnight
The renowned studio Compulsion Games, known for their previous titles We Happy Few and Contrast, has unveiled their upcoming game titled South of Midnight. The captivating CG trailer introduces viewers to a guitar player with an undead-like appearance, who finds themselves interrupted by a woman in search of a colossal monster. The trailer presented at Xbox Games Showcase 2023 shows an intriguing concept, leaving viewers intrigued. However, no specific release date was provided for the game at this time.
Star Wars Outlaws
During the Xbox Games Showcase 2023 held today, the highly anticipated Star Wars game developed by Ubisoft and Massive Entertainment was finally unveiled. The CG trailer introduces a band of unaffiliated scoundrels who allude to a mysterious “Syndicate” and the sprawling criminal underworld. The main character is seen engaging in a game of Sabaac before an attack takes place in a quintessential Star Wars cantina setting.
Escaping the perilous situation, she deftly maneuvers on a speeder bike. Notably, she is accompanied by an endearing creature serving as her pet, which almost stole the spotlight from the announcement of the game’s planned release in 2024. Ubisoft has promised to share further details about this highly-anticipated game during its own Summer Game Fest Event.
Sea of Thieves x Monkey Island crossover
The addition of a new story campaign to the online pirate simulation game, Sea of Thieves, in collaboration with Microsoft’s Monkey Island franchise, has managed to achieve a seamless and fitting combination. Unlike other instances of intellectual property crossovers that often feel forced or out of place, this update feels like a perfect blend.
Excitingly, it has been confirmed that the original voice actors will reprise their roles, bringing beloved characters like Guybrush and Stan S. Salesman to life once again. The prospect of this free update, set to release on July 20, is enticing enough for players to consider reinstalling Sea of Thieves just to experience this exciting collaboration.
Payday 3
Prepare for another thrilling heist as Payday 3, the cooperative first-person shooter, is set to hit the gaming scene on September 21. In line with many other games presented today at Xbox Games Showcase 2023, Payday 3 will also be available as a day-one launch on Game Pass. Get ready to assemble your crew and orchestrate daring bank robberies in this highly anticipated title, immersing yourself in the heart-pounding action that the Payday series is renowned for.
Avowed
During today’s Xbox Games Showcase 2023, we were treated to the first glimpse of gameplay from Avowed, the highly anticipated RPG developed by Obsidian. Set in a captivating fantasy world, the game presents a narrative where a deadly plague is devastating the lands. In response to the crisis, the lazy emperor of the empire entrusts you, a formidable warrior, with the task of rectifying the situation.
Naturally, the solution involves engaging in intense combat and utilizing powerful magic abilities. The showcased gameplay bears resemblances to a modded version of Skyrim, evoking a sense of familiarity for fans of the genre. Microsoft has announced that Avowed is slated for release in 2024 and will be available on Game Pass from its launch day. Prepare to embark on an epic adventure as you face the challenges of this plague-ridden realm.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
Microsoft’s upcoming installment in their revitalized flight simulation franchise is scheduled for release next year, offering an extensive array of aerial-related careers to explore. Players can look forward to engaging in various roles such as firefighting, search and rescue operations, cargo delivery, and even crop dusting. The game aims to provide an immersive experience, allowing aviation enthusiasts to delve into diverse professions within the virtual skies.
33 Immortals
If you’re seeking a unique gaming experience that combines the aesthetics and gameplay elements of Hades with the ability to play alongside a massive player count of 32 others, Thunder Lotus has an intriguing solution for you. Their upcoming game, 33 Immortals, caters to this oddly specific request.
Set to release in 2024, 33 Immortals offers a multiplayer adventure where you and a large group of players can navigate the game world together. The title will also be available on Game Pass from its launch day, providing easy access for subscribers to embark on this epic journey. Prepare for an immersive and multiplayer-driven experience that sets itself apart with its distinctive concept.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II
Ninja Theory has proudly announced that all the showcased footage was captured directly from an Xbox Series console, highlighting the impressive visual quality of their upcoming title. The visuals are undeniably striking, showcasing the capabilities of the hardware. While no specific release date has been provided for this highly anticipated sequel, it is slated to launch in 2024.
Excitingly, it has been confirmed that the game will be available on Game Pass from its very first day, mirroring the trend of many other titles presented during the Xbox Games Showcase 2023. Players can look forward to experiencing the game seamlessly through the Game Pass subscription, further expanding their gaming options.
Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Ichiban Kasuga’s unexpected awakening on a beach, resembling the tropical landscapes of Hawaii, sets the stage for an intriguing premise in the next installment of the Yakuza/Like A Dragon franchise at Xbox Games Showcase 2023. The reveal trailer showcases a series of comedic gags reminiscent of the style seen in early 2005-era Austin Powers movies. Objects and people are cleverly positioned to obscure Ichiban’s nudity, injecting humor into the trailer.
This upcoming entry in the franchise is set to be released in early 2024 on both PC and Xbox platforms.
Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
In Capcom’s upcoming game, Path of the Goddess, it seems that a formidable challenge presents itself in the form of a demon problem. To tackle this supernatural threat head-on, players can expect to rely on the trusty combination of swords and magic
Fallout 76 goes to Atlantic City
Fallout 76, the popular online multiplayer game from Bethesda, has achieved an impressive milestone with a reported player count of 15 million. This substantial number indicates a strong and dedicated player base. Exciting news awaits these players as Bethesda plans to introduce a future update that will allow them to explore the virtual rendition of Atlantic City.
With this new content, players can expect to immerse themselves in the post-apocalyptic world of Fallout 76 while experiencing the unique setting and challenges that await in Atlantic City.
Forza Motorsport launches this October
After a considerable period of anticipation and several installments of Forza Horizon, fans can rejoice as Turn 10 Studios unveils the next main entry in the Forza Motorsport franchise. The upcoming game is set to release on October 10, marking a significant milestone for racing game enthusiasts. During the Xbox Games Showcase 2023, a thrilling gameplay trailer provided a sneak peek into the new title, showcasing an array of General Motors vehicles, including the impressive Corvette E-Ray.
Still Wakes The Deep
In a brief but intriguing trailer, The Chinese Room offered a glimpse into their next project, which appears to be a chilling first-person horror game set on an oil rig. The atmospheric setting hints at a suspenseful and unnerving experience that players can anticipate. While not many specific details were unveiled, the trailer’s visuals and ambiance suggest a haunting journey awaits players. The game is currently slated for a release in 2024.
Persona 5 Tactica
The beloved Persona 5 universe is set to expand further with the introduction of a new stylish and anime-inspired tactical game. Fans of the series can rejoice as this highly anticipated title is scheduled to release on November 25 of this year, promising an immersive and strategic gameplay experience.
Starfield
The decision to showcase a new trailer for Bethesda’s highly anticipated space RPG, Starfield, during the Xbox Games Showcase 2023 might have seemed somewhat unusual considering the prior announcement of a dedicated show for the game. Event planning can vary, and the approach chosen by Bethesda may have its own reasons and strategic considerations.
While it may appear atypical from an observer’s perspective, it’s ultimately up to the company to determine how they want to present their content and build anticipation for their upcoming titles. Fans can look forward to the forthcoming Starfield show, where further details and insights into the game will likely be revealed, offering a more in-depth look into this highly anticipated space-themed RPG.
Jusant
You’re not alone in your desire for more mountain climbing video games, and it seems that Jusant is here to fulfill that wish. This upcoming game presented at Xbox Games Showcase 2023 from Jusant combines the thrilling experience of rock climbing with a touch of magic, offering a unique and enticing blend of gameplay elements. The game’s visuals are promising, capturing the essence of the mountainous landscapes.
Fortunately, you won’t have to wait too long to embark on this adventure, as Jusant is set to release in the fall of this year.
Dungeons of Hinterberg
It’s always exciting when a game that caught your interest in the past resurfaces with good news. In the case of Dungeons of Hinterberg, the modern-fantasy exploration RPG you came across on Twitter a few years ago, your desire to play more of it is soon to be fulfilled. The game is slated for release in 2024, providing an immersive and adventurous experience for players.
Even better, Dungeons of Hinterberg will be available on Game Pass from its launch day. This means that you can enjoy the game seamlessly through your Game Pass subscription, granting you access to a captivating world of exploration and fantasy without any additional cost.
Metaphor: ReFantazio
Studio Zero, comprised of the talented creators behind Persona 3 and Persona 4, has unveiled their latest JRPG project, Metaphor. With the trailer evoking a distinct Persona aesthetic, fans of the series will likely find themselves right at home. The familiar look and feel contribute to a sense of excitement and anticipation for this new title.
Set for release in 2024, Metaphor promises to deliver an immersive and captivating JRPG experience. Adding to the excitement, the game will be available on Game Pass from its very first day. This allows subscribers to delve into the world of Metaphor without any additional cost, expanding the accessibility and potential player base for the game.
Cyberpunk 2077’s new expansion
CD Projekt Red’s highly anticipated expansion for Cyberpunk 2077, titled “Phantom Liberty,” is set to make a significant impact on the game. One of the key highlights of this expansion is the return of Johnny Silverhand, a fan-favorite character, whose involvement adds an extra layer of excitement to the storyline. Notably, renowned actor Idris Elba joins the cast as special agent Solomon Reed, adding his talent to the already impressive ensemble.
Towerborne
Towerborne, the upcoming game from the creators behind The Banner Saga trilogy, presents a familiar yet compelling premise of evil forces threatening humanity. In this fantasy world, it seems that malevolent entities are causing havoc once again. However, players will have the opportunity to combat this evil alongside friends, as Towerborne offers cooperative gameplay that allows for shared adventures and exploration.
Presented at Xbox Games Showcase 2023 and scheduled for release in 2024, Towerborne promises an engaging experience where players can band together to confront the looming threat.
Cities Skylines II
While roads and buildings play a crucial role in city building, it’s true that the individuals who shape and inhabit those cities are of paramount importance. In Cities Skylines II, the highly anticipated sequel to the popular city builder game, the spotlight is on you, the player, as the key decision-maker and city planner.
Set to be released on October 24 for Xbox and PC platforms, Cities Skylines II invites you to take control of the urban development process, offering an immersive and dynamic city-building experience.
Clockwork Revolution
While Bioshock Infinite may have had its flaws, it undeniably offered a captivating and visually stunning world for players to explore. It appears that InXile Entertainment’s upcoming game, Clockwork Revolution, draws inspiration from Infinite, featuring a Steampunk-esque aesthetic and first-person shooting mechanics. The game takes an intriguing twist by allowing players to manipulate time and shape the future.
With the ability to control time, players will likely encounter unique challenges and opportunities throughout their journey. However, the consequences of tampering with time are not to be taken lightly, and the game’s premise suggests that unforeseen problems may arise. The release date for Clockwork Revolution has not been specified at Xbox Games Showcase 2023, beyond a playful “in due time” reference, alluding to the game’s central theme.
A new Xbox console
As the Xbox Games Showcase 2023 drew to a close, Phil Spencer, in his concluding remarks, not only provided a recap of all the exciting announcements but also unveiled a new iteration of the Xbox Series S console. This new version boasts a 1TB SSD (Solid State Drive) and comes in an all-black design, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the console. The pricing for the new Xbox Series S is set at $350, offering a more accessible option for gamers.
