Microsoft has drawn the curtain on the exhilarating Xbox Games Showcase 2023, a grand annual spectacle designed for game aficionados worldwide. As expected, the spotlight was on Microsoft’s forthcoming science fiction role-playing game, Starfield.
Yet, the event was far from being a one-trick pony, with an array of novel gaming titles making their exciting debut, alongside advanced peeks at some eagerly awaited sequels.
The Xbox Games Showcase, a highlight of the summer gaming calendar, introduced audiences to Ubisoft’s Star Wars: Outlaws and Compulsion Games’ South of Midnight. Additionally, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess made waves as it bore a striking resemblance in spirit to Capcom’s esteemed Onimusha series.
Cinematic previews for Fable and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II were also featured, giving fans a glimpse of these highly awaited games that have been brewing at their respective development houses for a considerable duration.
One surprising twist during the grand spectacle was the formidable presence of Japanese developer, Atlus. The prolific studio pulled the wraps off three novel gaming titles – Persona 5 Tactical, Personal 3 Reload, and Metaphor: ReFantazio, ensuring the event’s surprise quotient remained high. The showcase also gave attendees an unexpected overdose of Like a Dragon’s protagonist, Ichiban, in a teaser for the new Like a Dragon 8: Infinite Wealth.
Not to be outdone, rising gaming studio Thunder Lotus teased fans with their latest creation, 33 Immortals. Moreover, the gaming gala also unveiled gameplay from Payday 3 and the intriguing steampunk-themed game, Clockwork Revolution. Adding to the anticipation, there’s a host of fantastic downloadable content (DLC) on the horizon.
Sea of Thieves is set to release a free Monkey Island expansion, while Cyberpunk-2077’s Phantom Liberty update is promising more screen time with Keanu Reeves and Idris Elba, plus a vast new district in the game world to explore.
In essence, the Xbox Games Showcase 2023 was a roller coaster ride of gaming revelations. To catch up on all these and more, here’s a summary of the grand event’s most significant announcements.
Clockwork Revolution
Shifting gears from a post-apocalyptic landscape to an intriguing steampunk dystopia, InXile Entertainment is bringing to life a captivating narrative with Clockwork Revolution. Set within the intricate cityscape of Avalon, the game empowers players with the ability to leap back and forth through time, thereby altering the course of events.
Fans of BioShock Infinite might find certain elements in the gameplay, combat, and environment subtly reminiscent of the 2K title. However, Clockwork Revolution carves its own unique path by focusing on time travel as a central gameplay element. Although Xbox has yet to reveal a specific time frame for the action RPG’s release, anticipation is already mounting.
Sea of Thieves: The Legend of Monkey Island
In an exciting collaborative venture, game developers Rare and Lucas Arts are coming together to infuse the legendary adventure series, Monkey Island, into the realm of Sea of Thieves. This expansion introduces players to various iconic characters from Monkey Island, complete with authentic voiceovers, as well as fresh adventures for eager sailors.
What makes this announcement even more appealing is that Rare has confirmed this expansion will be available completely free of charge. The release of Sea of Thieves: The Legend of Monkey Island is scheduled for July 20, 2023.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II
After maintaining a discreet silence for several years, Ninja Theory has finally broken the news that the next installment in the Hellblade series is on the verge of completion. In a grand reveal, the studio shared an evocative cinematic trailer, where we see protagonist Senua engaged in a brief conversation with her inner voices, followed by a dramatic plunge into a body of water. Though Xbox hasn’t confirmed an official release date, the trailer has reassured fans that the game remains on track for a 2024 release.
Like A Dragon 8: Infinite Wealth
Returning to the limelight, Ichiban, the beloved protagonist of Like a Dragon, is all set to steal the show in Like a Dragon 8: Infinite Wealth. The footage released doesn’t offer any gameplay insights but paints an intimate portrait of Ichiban and hints at the next game’s setting: the picturesque island of Hawaii.
It also suggests that Ichiban, along with Kiryu, a previous protagonist from the Like a Dragon series, will be playable in the upcoming eighth installment of the game. Fans can expect this title to hit the shelves on November 19, 2023.
Fable
Brimming with anticipation, fans can look forward to a fresh rendition of Fable, masterminded by Playground Games. Judging by the engrossing trailer unveiled at the Xbox Games Showcase, it seems the beloved series is getting a complete makeover, rejuvenating its identity. Comedian and actor Richard Ayoade is also somehow associated with this project, piquing interest further. As of now, many aspects of the reboot remain shrouded in mystery, but the game appears to feature a diminutive protagonist navigating a universe inhabited by giants.
The excitement is palpable, given that the Fable franchise has been in slumber for a lengthy period. It’s somewhat surprising, yet intriguing, that the creators of Forza Horizon, known for its realistic racing games, have taken up the mantle to breathe new life into this cherished series. Although the Xbox Games Showcase trailer did not furnish us with a release date, it’s a safe assumption that the game’s arrival might be some way off. The good news, however, is the confirmation of its availability on both Xbox and PC, and also as part of the Xbox Game Pass subscription service.
Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
Making waves in the gaming scene is Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, a fresh offering from Capcom, the acclaimed studio behind stalwarts like Resident Evil and Monster Hunter. This new title immerses players in feudal Japan, challenging them to engage in battles with colossal supernatural entities and a variety of intriguing yokai.
Although the aesthetics of Kunitsu-Gami might remind seasoned gamers of another well-known Capcom title, Onimusha, it’s important to note that Kunitsu-Gami stands independently of the action-adventure series and might incorporate elements of multiplayer gameplay. Xbox is yet to reveal a specific launch timeframe for this captivating game.
Persona 5 Tactica
The much-loved characters from Persona 5—Joker, Skull, Panther, and the rest—are making a grand return in Persona 5 Tactica. This latest spin-off from the Persona 5 universe introduces a tactical-style adventure, diverging from the series’ signature turn-based combat.
Persona 5 Tactica not only adds new characters and a whole new storyline to the mix, but also offers players the opportunity to spend additional quality time with their favorite characters. This highly anticipated game is slated to hit the gaming markets on November 17, 2023.
Starfield
Throughout the Xbox showcase and Starfield Direct, fans were given a comprehensive preview of the ambitious upcoming Bethesda title, Starfield. Touted as the studio’s most ambitious RPG till date, Starfield promises over a thousand planets for players to explore, coupled with base-building features and extensive skill trees, dialogue options, stories, and character customization.
Todd Howard, the esteemed director and executive producer at Bethesda, emphasised the game’s commitment to offering a multitude of exploration and combat avenues, promising an unparalleled level of freedom to the players. Starfield is on track for a launch on PC and Xbox Series X|S on September 6.
Cyberpunk-2077: Phantom Liberty
Keanu Reeves made a star-studded comeback on the Xbox stage to promote Phantom Liberty, the exciting next chapter in CD Projekt Red’s futuristic RPG saga, Cyberpunk-2077. This DLC propels players into the heart of Dogtown, a previously uncharted area of Night City, and prominently features Reeves reprising his role as Johnny Silverhand in an entirely new storyline.
In addition to this, the expansion includes new weaponry, swimming capabilities, and a special guest appearance by iconic actor Idris Elba. Cyberpunk-2077: Phantom Liberty is set to roll out later this year, on September 26.
South of Midnight
Compulsion Games, renowned for their psychological thriller We Happy Few, is embarking on a new gaming venture with South of Midnight, set against the backdrop of the American South. Although specific details about the game remain sparse and the unveiled trailer lacked gameplay elements, the official Xbox blog has hinted at a third-person action-adventure experience where players face the daunting task of hunting down supernatural beings. As of now, Xbox hasn’t announced a release date for this intriguing new title.
Persona 3 Reload
Making waves in the gaming sphere, Persona 3 Reload promises a total makeover of the original Persona 3, dressed up in a modern visual aesthetic akin to Persona 5. The reveal trailer offered sneak peeks into the game’s revitalized world, complete with innovative exploration options, engaging social scenarios, and revamped combat mechanics. Remaining faithful to its roots, Persona 3 Reload retains the dark, atmospheric Persona storyline and turn-based RPG style.
Dungeon exploration seems to be centered around Tartarus, a dynamic labyrinth of randomly generated levels that morph in tandem with the storyline. The game features a new cast of voice actors but maintains the original’s iconic musical style, as evidenced by the trailer’s catchy new track. This long-awaited remake is slated for an early 2024 release across multiple platforms including Xbox Series X|S, PC, PlayStation platforms, and Nintendo Switch.
33 Immortals
With an artistic flair reminiscent of Spiritfarer, Thunder Lotus Games’ forthcoming title, 33 Immortals, stands out as a unique offering. While its visuals may echo those of its predecessor, this game is an entirely different species of entertainment. Described as a “pick up and raid” roguelike game, it accommodates up to 33 players in a cooperative environment.
This adrenaline-fueled action experience promises to offer a highly customizable gaming platform with distinctive abilities and adaptable gear. Eager gamers will need to hold on to their anticipation until next year, when 33 Immortals is set to release on Xbox Series X|S and PC platforms.
Payday 3
Fans of the action-packed heist co-op first-person shooter Payday series had something to cheer about during the Xbox Games Showcase. A fresh trailer for Payday 3 was rolled out, displaying an array of exciting gameplay dynamics. The objective remains unchanged – orchestrate daring bank heists while holding off hordes of armed-to-the-teeth law enforcement.
However, the new version appears to emphasize more on agility and the use of innovative gadgets to ensure a clean getaway. With a confirmed launch date of September 3, Payday 3 is coming to Xbox platforms, PlayStation systems, and PC.
Avowed
After being under wraps for several years, Obsidian has finally offered fans an immersive glimpse into their ambitious first-person role-playing game, Avowed. The gameplay-oriented trailer provides a comprehensive tour of the game’s vibrant environments, populated with fantastical creatures and showcasing a range of abilities that players can look forward to mastering.
These include an intriguing blend of spell-casting, skillful swordplay, and the usage of flintlock firearms. Avowed is all set to make its mark on Xbox platforms in 2024.
Metaphor: ReFantazio
Atlus, the iconic studio behind successful franchises like the Persona series, Shin Megami Tensei, and Catherine, is all set to embark on a new journey with Metaphor: ReFantazio. Initially introduced nearly seven years ago as Project Re Fantasy, this stylish role-playing game seems to borrow heavily from the Persona series.
It places considerable emphasis on forming bonds and engaging in intense turn-based combat. With an expected release date in 2024, Metaphor: ReFantazio is eagerly awaited by the gaming community.
Star Wars Outlaws
Fans of the galaxy far, far away were treated to the first glimpse of Ubisoft’s expansive open-world Star Wars game, Star Wars: Outlaws. Developed by Massive, the cinematic trailer introduced us to Kay Vess, a rogue trying to evade capture who inadvertently gets embroiled in a nefarious plot centered around a crime syndicate in the Outer Rim.
While the Imperial presence is evident, it appears that the primary narrative revolves around the gritty underbelly of the Star Wars universe. Ubisoft tantalized fans further, concluding the preview with a promise of a more in-depth gameplay walkthrough to be revealed during its Ubisoft Forward presentation on June 12.
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