Developer Naughty Dog left the Uncharted franchise in a very, very good place upon the culmination of Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End. The 2016 PlayStation 4 exclusive wraps things up nicely with a feel-good epilogue which gives Nathan Drake a lovely send-off, but director Neil Druckmann might have left behind some unfinished business.
While discussing how to manage expectations with sequels and the approach the studio took, Druckmann said: “You just realise we’re not going to top that so we’re going to do something different. We’re just gonna do this other thing. And then kinda similarly with the sequel is first of all: do we want to make it and we’re lucky that we have the freedom that Sony gives us where we can choose? We made Uncharted 4 and we haven’t made another Uncharted since, maybe one day we will, we’ll see.” Nathan Drake voice actor then comically adds: “We’ll talk about it.”
Rich went to play the Resident Evil 3 remake so he could come back and talk about it with Josh; he’s good like that, and the game is also good by the sounds of it.
Kojima Productions, the studio behind Death Stranding, has confirmed that it’ll miss out on GDC 2020. The developer, headed by Metal Gear Solid creator Hideo Kojima, says: ” made the difficult decision to cancel our participation at the 2020 Game Developers Conference due to increasing concerns related to coronavirus”.
2/24 Update: Added details about ray tracing, teraflops, “Quick Resume,” and “Smart Delivery.”
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At The Game Awards 2019, Microsoft’s next-gen console finally earned its official name: The Xbox Series X. Initially revealed at the E3 2019 press conference as Project Scarlett, specifics about the console have been scarce. Microsoft has given us some concrete details to focus on, however, including some specs, a release window, a major launch title, and more.
With Sony absent, Phil Spencer and his team will definitely be the main focus of the show, however, it remains to be seen if that means we hear any announcements about an Xbox Series X release date or price.
Xbox Series X Specs: What Hardware Does it Have?
As part of the initial Project Scarlett announcement video, those involved in the creation of the new console said it will be four times more powerful than the Xbox One X, which is capable of 8K output, 120 frames per second, variable refresh rates and real-time “next-gen ray tracing.”
Spencer later clarified that the Xbox Series X would feature DirectX raytracing, which will allow for more realistic environments, with “accurate reflections and realistic acoustics.”
A new generation SSD is being used as virtual RAM, allegedly offering over 40 times performance increases from the current generation. Xbox Series X will also leverage high-bandwidth GDDR 6 SDRAM.
AMD and Microsoft co-engineered and designed a custom processor for the Xbox Series X. This processor leverages AMD’s latest Zen 2 and Navi technology. It was clear before E3 2019 that AMD would be designing the next Xbox’s processor, as Spencer briefly discussed a partnership with AMD during a keynote address at CES 2019. Spencer teased the new Xbox Series X processor on Twitter earlier this year when he changed his profile picture to an image of the chip. The new processor, which looks very similar to that of the Xbox One X reads “8K” and “Project Scarlett.”
Xbox Series X Features
The same team that worked on the Xbox One X is working on the Xbox Series X and they are prioritizing reduced load times. Xbox head Phil Spencer is a longtime advocate for framerate over resolution, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the Xbox Series X team is paying close attention to better framerates.
In February 2020, Phil Spencer posted on the Xbox blog, detailing some features coming to the Xbox Series X. A “Quick Resume” feature will allow players to load “suspended state” games almost instantly and let you quickly navigate through multiple games without having to endure enormous load times.
It was also confirmed that the Xbox Series X will have 12 teraflops of GPU power, which is four times more than the Xbox One and twice as much as the Xbox One X. For those not familiar with the term, a teraflop is a measure of how many complex calculations a machine can handle every second. Essentially, it allows for higher-quality graphical output.
At EA’s Q3 2020 investors call, CFO Blake Jorgensen told investors that the power behind the new generation of consoles would “blow people’s mind.”
“The power of the new consoles is gonna be substantially greater than existing consoles,” said Jorgensen during the call. “We can do a lot more [with PS5 and Xbox Series X]. Things we’re doing will blow people’s minds.”
It sounds like Microsoft’s next-gen console is going to be pretty powerful. We actually broke down how the Xbox Series X compares to PCs.
Xbox Series X Design and Images: What Does it Look Like?
At The Game Awards 2019, we were given our first look at the Xbox Series X. Standing vertically in what looks to be a matte black finish, Microsoft’s fourth-generation console features a power button with the signature Xbox insignia at the top that lights up white when pressed on. There’s metal mesh across the top of the console that gets backlit with an Xbox green glow as well.
In an interview with GameSpot, it was confirmed the Xbox Series X will support discs and is “roughly as wide as an Xbox One controller”. Phil Spencer also told GameSpot that the Xbox Series X was “designed to be as quiet as possible”, sporting a large fan designed to push out “high volumes of air” from the top and keep the console cool.
Earlier this year, images of the Xbox Series X were reportedly leaked on Twitter. At the time of writing, it’s still unclear if this is a real prototype, or simply an incredibly detailed mockup. Either way, the reported leak offers fans a potential closer look at the front and back of the console.
A lot of fans have taken note of an unknown port located between the HDMI and digital audio port on the back of the “leaked” Xbox Series X image. Microsoft insider blog Thurrott is reporting that the unknown port will be used for expandable storage. At the time of writing, the purpose of the port has not been confirmed by Microsoft.
Xbox Series X Games: What Are the Confirmed and Rumored Titles?
So far, we know of seven titles that will be making its way to the Xbox Series X, along with two unannounced AAA games. Perhaps the biggest title of them all is Halo Infinite, which is the only confirmed Xbox Series X launch title.
Microsoft has been accumulating studios, perhaps in anticipation of the future console generation. Microsoft announced it had acquired five studios (Ninja Theory, Undead Labs, Compulsion Games, Playground Games) and founded a new Santa Monica studio during E3 2018.
Phil Spencer also said Microsoft aims to support a “Play Anywhere” scheme, wanting to provide the option for gamers to connect across devices and across platforms, suggesting potential cross-generation play.
Additionally, the Xbox Series X will feature “Smart Delivery” which will give players easy access to all digitally purchased games across all devices, meaning it doesn’t have to be purchased twice. This feature will be available for all exclusive Xbox Game Studio titles, including Halo Infinite, as well as any third-party developers that decide to opt in. Cyberpunk 2077 is one game already confirmed for smart delivery.
Project xCloud
Just before officially announcing Project Scarlett, Microsoft announced that its game streaming platform Project xCloud is coming in October 2019. Xbox head Phil Spencer also announced Console Streaming, which turns an Xbox One into a personal Xbox server for free. It’s likely this feature and Project xCloud will find its way to the Xbox Series X in the future.
Last year, we went hands-on with Project xCloud and found that so far, it seems like a pretty good service. Be sure to check out our Project xCloud review if you want to hear more about it.
There were some recent rumors about Project xCloud exclusive games, but Microsoft has since clarified its original comments, saying that it has “no plans for cloud-exclusive content at this time.”
Xbox Series X: What Happened to Lockhart and Anaconda?
In December 2018, reports suggested the two devices that make up Project Scarlett are referred to within Microsoft by two codenames: Lockhart and Anaconda. Again, it’s unclear if Project Scarlett still consists of multiple pieces of hardware.
These two separate Xbox SKUs would theoretically have a similar dynamic to Xbox One S and Xbox One X. Lockhart was rumored to be a more affordable, baseline model that made the technology more accessible to a larger group of consumers.
This could potentially be the streaming-centric device hinted at in earlier rumors. The report suggested Lockhart was comparable to, or just a bit more powerful than, the Xbox One X.
Anaconda, on the other hand, would be a decidedly more powerful piece of hardware that would cost more for consumers willing to shell out the money for extra horsepower. It would reportedly provide a “cutting-edge console gaming experience.” It was also suggested the Anaconda could potentially act as a dev kit.
If the rumors are to be believed, the Xbox Series X is likely the console nicknamed Anaconda, while the Lockhart console is yet to be announced by Microsoft. However, it’s currently still unclear if Microsoft will have more than one console at launch.
Xbox Series X Controller vs Xbox One Controller
The Xbox Series X controller looks very similar to that of the Xbox One and was partially inspired by the Elite Series 2 controller. Notable new features with the new Series X controller are a Share button and a hybrid d-pad similar to the Elite Series 2.
In the Xbox Series X announcement post from Microsoft, the company noted that the controllers “size and shape have been refined to accommodate an even wider range of people.”
Further, the new controller will be compatible with the Xbox One and Windows 10 PC’s and will be included with every Xbox Series X purchase.
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Colin Stevens is a news writer for IGN. Follow him on Twitter.
The Nintendo Switch was the best selling console of 2019 and we’re not surprised at all. The Switch was released nearly 3 years again and still no other console is able to match the Switch’s versatility. In addition, the already stellar gaming library has been bolstered with several high quality games in 2019, including Pokemon Sword and Shield, Super Mario Maker 2, Link’s Awakening, Ring Fit, and much more. With increased pressure from Sony and Microsoft, Nintendo is likely to be more aggressive with deals and promotions during 2020. Check here for all the best deals on Nintendo Switch consoles, accessories, and games.
25% Off Fire Emblem: Three Houses, Now $44.99
At 25% off, Fire Emblem Three Houses is now at the lowest price we’ve seen. This is the best tactical strategy game out for the Nintendo Switch. We scored it an “Amazing” 9.5/10. Brendan Graeber writes “Fire Emblem: Three Houses offers an incredible amount of choice, and a story that deserves to be viewed from more than one angle.”
Today Only: 512GB Micro SDXC Memory Card (Perfect for Nintendo Switch) for $69.99
The Nintendo Switch comes preinstalled with only 32GB of storage. To put that in perspective, Breath of the Wild alone will take up 40% of your storage capacity. I’d recommend you get at least a 128GB card if you want to store as many smaller digital titles as you want, and the larger 400GB card if you plan to download bigger titles.
The newest color in the Nintendo Switch Lite lineup is available for preorder. It’s out on April 3. The Switch Lite is $100 less than the Switch and can play almost all of the same games.
There are currently no Nintendo Switch console deals right now, but the least we can do is make sure you get the V2 model. The version 2 model boasts about 2 more hours of battery life, which is certainly not insignificant. It raises the battery expectancy from 2.5-7 hours to 4.5-9 hours. It might be confusing to some people because many stores still sell the older model alongside the new one. The easiest way to tell if you’re getting the V2 model is the packaging. The new V2 model has a new box with a predominantly Mario red color.
Anker PowerCore Essential 20,000mAh USB PD Power Bank for the Nintendo Switch for $34.99
Clip $5 Coupon and Use Coupon Code: “A1281369”
This 20,000mAh power bank will work well with your Switch for these reasons:
It supports USB-PD (Power Delivery) charging up to 18W, equal to the official charger
Thanks to the full 18W of charging output, it can fully recharge a dead Switch in 3.5 hours
The Switch has a battery capacity of about 4500mAh, so you could fully charge it 6 times
USB-PD power banks can charge the Switch even while you’re playing a game
Anker also makes the only official power bank for the Nintendo Switch. This model is very similar to that power bank minus the Switch logo and only 1/3 the price.
20% Off SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless Headset (First Truly Wireless Headset for the Switch), Now $79.99
If you’re a Nintendo Switch gamer who’s been aching for a wireless audio solution for your gaming system, salvation is here. The Arctis 1 is compatible with practically any system, from your PS4 and Xbox One to your Switch and smartphone. We reviewed the Arctis 1 and called it out as the best wireless headphones under $100. Starting today it’s 20% off at Amazon.
Out 3/13: Animal Crossing Aloha Edition Carrying Case & Screen Protector
Best Buy is currently the only vendor that has the official Animal Crossing Aloha Edition case for the Nintendo Switch available for preorder (Walmart had it but it’s sold now). A Switch Lite variant is available as well. A screen protector is also included.
Out 3/20: Preorder Animal Crossing for Switch, Get $10 in Best Buy Credit
This is the only deal available right now for preordering the hottest Switch game of 2020 so far. You’ll need a MyBestBuy membership to get this free credit, but it’s free to sign up.
This game normally sells for $19.99. I thought I was getting a great deal at $9.99, but technically this deal is even 32% cheaper than that. I’m generally not a very big platformer fan and yet I loved this game enough to die 6,899 times in order to get all the strawberries in the game (I’m not a very skilled gamer). In fact I’ve racked more hours on this game than any other Switch indie game in my library. Get it now before the price goes back up.
Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition for $49.99 on Amazon
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller for $59
The price of the Switch Pro hasn’t changed since Black Friday, but this deal won’t last forever. This is easily the best wireless controller for the Switch console (and quite possibly the best controller, period). Apart from the Joy-Cons, this is the only controller that supports rumble and amiibo NFC functionality. Definitely get this if you prefer the traditional gamepad layout or you use the Switch in docked mode often.
Nintendo direct is selling refurbished SNES and NES Classic Edition consoles at a discount. The SNES Classic is currently selling for $69.99 (MSRP $80) and the NES Classic is $49.99 (MSRP $60). Since these systems are sold out everywhere else, this is easily the best way to obtain one without paying scalpers’ prices. Despite the fact that they are refurbished, Nintendo is offering a full 1-year warranty, same as new. Nintendo explicitly states “We think you will find the standards for Authentic Nintendo Refurbished Products are VERY high.”
You’re basically getting 10% off all of your digital game purchases from the Nintendo eShop up to $50. You’ll need to be a Costco member to get this deal.
What’s new in Persona 5 Royal? What are the differences between Persona 5 Royal and Persona 5? In this guide, we’re going to break down all of the additions and changes that we know of in Persona 5 Royal. From gameplay tweaks to entirely new content, there’s actually a lot of stuff to look forward to even if you’ve already sunk hours upon hours into the original Persona 5.
Video game composer Martin O’Donnell has shared another behind-the-scenes video from his time at Bungie working on the Halo series. This latest one focused on the music and audio from 2007’s Halo 3, and it follows an earlier video that showed Steve Vai’s incredible recording of the rockin’ Halo 2 theme music.
In this unearthed video, we see and learn a lot of things, including the fact that a number of Halo 3’s sounds came from dropping, scraping, and smashing an original Xbox with a hammer. There are a lot of other interesting insights and fun facts in the video. For instance, one of the sound designers recorded audio for soldiers walking through the beach by capturing his own footsteps on a beach in Mexico when he was on vacation.
Check out the full video below; it’s well worth a watch for Halo fans. The Xbox-smashing bit starts at around 1:05.
Samurai Shodown releases for Nintendo Switch releases on February 25, 2020, bringing the well-received fighting game reboot to Switch. Samurai Shodown has been praised as a high-quality entry in the long-running series, and now that it’s done, director Nobuyuki Kuroki might be able to set his sights on another SNK series.
Talking to Nintendo Life about the impending Switch release, Kuroki revealed that the game he’d most like to bring back. “Personally, I wish that we can revive Garou: Mark of the Wolves,” he told the site.
Garou, which launched in 1999 for the Dreamcast, is also technically the most recent entry in the Fatal Fury series, is a beloved game. The PC, PS4, and Vita versions recently received a substantial netcode update, which made them easier to play online without issue.
There’s absolutely no confirmation that the game will actually return, though, and it’s clear from the interview that this is Kuroki’s desire rather than something that is in active development. SNK Corporation is currently working on another fighting game in a long-running series, with King of Fighters XV due to release in 2020 for PS4.
The second season of Samurai Shodown’s DLC will start on February 26 with new fighter Mina Majikina.
