Xbox Developer Direct 2024
Microsoft kicked off 2024 with the Xbox Developer Direct, showcasing key announcements including the release date for Hellblade 2 and the unveiling of Machine Games’ “Indiana Jones and the Great Circle.” The presentation offered insights into various upcoming titles, detailing what Xbox has in store for the year.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Reveal
Machine Games unveiled their new game, “Indiana Jones and the Great Circle,” offering a first glimpse into its gameplay. The game, primarily in first-person view, features a character reminiscent of Harrison Ford’s Indiana Jones in appearance. The legendary Troy Baker will be Indy’s new voice. Highlights include puzzle-solving to access an ancient temple, using Indy’s signature whip in combat, and third-person rope-swinging sequences. The game will switch to a third-person perspective for environmental exploration and cutscenes. “Indiana Jones and the Great Circle” is set to release later this year.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 Release Date
Over four years after its initial announcement as the first game for Xbox Series X, “Hellblade 2” finally has a release date set for May 21, 2024. A new trailer for the highly anticipated sequel was released, highlighting the stunning visuals crafted by Ninja Theory. The developers have significantly enhanced their approach since the original game, incorporating advanced motion capture techniques, an all-new brutal combat system, and improved audio design, among other upgrades.
Avowed Deep Dive
Obsidian Entertainment revealed more details about their upcoming RPG, “Avowed,” set in the same universe as Pillars of Eternity. The presentation focused on the game’s combat system, highlighting various weapons such as a one-handed wand, dual-wield pistols, swords, and the Tanglefoot ability, which immobilizes enemies. True to Obsidian’s reputation, established with titles like Fallout: New Vegas and The Outer Worlds, “Avowed” will feature intricate dialogue trees and challenging choices for players. The game is scheduled for release in Fall 2024.
Visions of Mana Reveal
Square Enix provided an update on “Visions of Mana,” showcasing aspects of the upcoming RPG. The presentation highlighted the game’s real-time action combat, unique monster designs, musical score, and the ability to use rideable mounts in the overworld. This release marks the debut of the Mana series on Xbox, and the game will also be available on PC and PlayStation, with a launch slated for this Summer.
Ara: History Untold Details
Oxide Games, comprised of former developers from Firaxis’ Civilization series, revealed new details about their upcoming strategy game, “Ara: History Untold.” A key feature highlighted is the elimination of waiting for opponents’ turns, allowing for continuous gameplay. Set to release this Fall, the game will be available on PC and included in the PC Game Pass.
What was your favorite part of the Xbox Direct? We’ll discuss the showcase further on the next Geek Freaks Podcast.
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