Barcelona, Spain – February 17th, 2021 – Game developers JanduSoft S.L and Grimorio of Games have released their biggest update yet for their monster summoning action roguelike Sword of the Necromancer. Since its launch on January 28th Sword of the Necromancer has shot into the top 30 downloaded games on the Nintendo eShop in North America and Europe and after listening to the players, an update was created to add some quality of life(after death) improvements:
– An Item Bag has been added that can store up to 4 items and is accessible at any time. Items stored in the bag are not in use and thus do not grant any passive or active effect. Monsters stored in the bag are not healed nor recover their health with time as the monsters you have equipped. The bag will be available after the tutorial level and is enabled by default.
– New options have been added to the Game Settings. Players can now choose to recall monsters from anywhere, start the game on the floor you last played, and enable/disable the new Item Bag. Use the Game Settings to optimise your gaming experience.
– Game Settings screen will appear once upon boot up after having cleared the tutorial. – Several minor bugs and crashes have been fixed.
More on Sword of the Necromancer: Sword of the Necromancer is a dungeon-crawler action-RPG with roguelike elements where you can revive your defeated enemies to make them fight alongside you. Turn your foes into allies using the forbidden powers of the Sword of the Necromancer and help the rogue Tama reach the dungeon’s depths to gather enough power to bring her beloved priestess Koko back from the dead. Assemble a small army of monsters, equip yourself with weapons and relics, and level up to take on the guardians that stand between you and your goal.
Each attempt gets you closer to the Necromancer. Upon death you’ll lose all your equipped weapons and monsters, but you will retain part of the level you achieved in your run. As you scour deeper through the dungeon you’ll uncover more of Tama and Koko’s past. Do you think it is dangerous to go alone? Then use the Flask of Homunculus to create a copy of yourself and play with a friend in local co-op! Additionally, there are IR codes that can be scanned to make the game easier. Or harder. The choice is yours!
About JanduSoft S.L JanduSoft is a Catalonian video game developer and publisher located in Barcelona. Its developed titles include Indiecalypse, Caveman Warriors, and Runemals. Now it also operates as a publisher, with a focus on both ports as well as fresh, new titles for PC and consoles.
About Grimorio of Games Grimorio of Games is a small team based in Barcelona. After developing the hyper-active action platformer Super Hyperactive Ninja, Grimorio of Games launched a Kickstarter campaign for the upcoming roguelike Sword of the Necromancer, which raised over €200K.
The team here at Xbox game pass is proud to present… video games! We’ve got new Perks, more games, and even more games you can touch. Coming soon to a download or streaming queue near you! So pick your quests, (turn in the one’s you’ve already done), and let’s get to the games.
Coming Soon
Code Vein (PC) – February 18
In the not-too-distant future, a mysterious disaster has collapsed the world as we know it. At the centre of the destruction lies a hidden society of Revenants called Vein. Team up with your friends and embark on a journey to the ends of hell to unlock your past and escape your living nightmare in Code Vein.
Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire – Ultimate Edition (Console) ID@Xbox – February 18
The ultimate edition of the award-winning RPG from the masters at Obsidian Entertainment is coming to Xbox Game Pass, featuring all major updates and expansions. Bend the world to your will as you explore the depths of infinite possibilities, including detailed character customization, total freedom of exploration, and more meaningful choices at every turn. Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire Ultimate Edition redefines the role-playing game experience for a new generation.
Wreckfest (Console and PC) – February 18
Break the rules and take full-contact racing to the limit with Wreckfest! Expect epic crashes, neck-to-neck fights over the finish line, and new ways for metal to bend. These are the once-in-a-lifetime moments that can only be achieved in Wreckfest, with its true-to-life physics simulation crafted by legendary developer Bugbear, who also brought you FlatOut 1 & 2!
Killer Queen Black (Console) ID@Xbox – February 23Fight for your hive in this strategic team platformer! Killer Queen Black is an intense multiplayer action/strategy platformer for up to eight players. Hop on the snail, hoard berries, or wipe out the enemy’s queen to claim victory. Fly solo, or team up with three of your friends as you race to complete one of three possible victory conditions.
Dirt 5 (Console and PC) – February 25 Get behind the wheel of incredible extreme cars and tear up the most stunning global locations in Dirt 5 – the next generation of off-road racing. The award-winning racer from Codemasters delivers a story-based Career mode, the all-new Playgrounds custom arena hub, customization options galore, thrilling online party modes and more, all with a pumping official soundtrack and bold art approach.
Elite Dangerous (Console) – February 25 Take control of your own starship in a cutthroat galaxy. Elite Dangerous is the definitive massively multiplayer space epic, bringing gaming’s original open world adventure to the modern generation with a connected galaxy, evolving narrative and the entirety of the Milky Way re-created at its full galactic proportions.
Superhot: Mind Control Delete (PC) ID@Xbox – February 25 Time moves only when you move. The long-awaited third game in the groundbreaking Superhot franchise, Superhot: Mind Control Delete gives you more insight into the signature power fantasy world of Superhot with more story, more signature gameplay, more action, and more guns. Keep dancing the slow-motion ballet of destruction for so much longer than ever before.
DLC / Game Updates
Destiny 2: Season of the Chosen– Until May 11 Embark on a new story, new Exotic quest, three new strikes, a new matchmade activity on multiple destinations, and the free Guardian Games event with Season of the Chosen. Earn Exotic and Legendary weapons, armor, and cosmetics. Control your rewards with Umbral Engrams, customize your playstyle with the new Artifact, and unlock rewards all Season long with the new Seasonal progress track.
Fallout 76: Fasnacht Parade – February 16 to February 22 Fasnacht Parade is coming back in Fallout 76! Complete a variety of party preparation activities from February 16 – 22, like playing musical instruments, decorating the town, and more. Once everything is ready, the dutiful Protectrons will line up to begin the Fasnacht Parade. Keep them safe on their route to earn rewards, including fantastic Fasnacht Masks!
Microsoft Flight Simulator World Update III: United Kingdom & Ireland – Available today!
World Update III features enhanced visuals, handcrafted scenery, custom airports, and exciting new activities. There are stunning new levels of detail and fidelity to some of the world’s most famous landmarks and bridges, regal palaces, breathtaking cathedrals … and, of course, football stadiums.
Minecraft Dungeons: Flames of the Nether DLC & 10 Million Players Celebration – February 24 Xbox Game Pass members can save 10% on the upcoming Flames of the Nether DLC! Minecraft Dungeons brings the heat to the Nether with the most ambitious DLC so far including new missions, fiery locations, and unique items! Learn more about Flames of the Nether and the free update coming along with it on February 24. All players will also receive a free cape and pet in celebration of the community reaching 10 Million Players!
Moving Out: Movers in Paradise DLC – February 25 Xbox Game Pass members can save 10% on Movers in Paradise, coming soon to Xbox One. Pack your bags and get ready to move and groove across 24 new tropical story and arcade levels on the sunny Packmore Island. Discover new mechanics, new enemies and four exclusive movers; Tooki, Coco, Gilly and Clawdius!
State of Decay 2: Toward Brighter Days The specially commissioned “We Are Done Dying” t-shirt represents the themes of hope and overcoming adversity, available until March 1, 2021 only at the official Xbox Gear Store. State of Decay 2 players can log in to have the digital version of the t-shirt added to their closet.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Perks
Visit the Perks gallery on your Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One consoles, Xbox App on Windows 10 PCs, or the Xbox Game Pass mobile app on iOS and Android to claim these rewards:
Rogue Company – Xbox Season One Starter Pack – Available Now
Get ahead in Season One of Rogue Company with the Xbox Season One Starter Pack. This pack includes the Carolina Step emote, Camouflage X weapon wrap, Rogue Bucks & Battle Pass XP! Go claim the Perk on your account now!
Path of Exile – Gothic Armour Set – February 18
Slay your way across Wraeclast wearing the Gothic Armour Skin. Intimidate your enemies and feel one with the grit and glory that awaits.
Xbox Game Pass Quests
We have dozens of new Quests for you to hunt down this month! Don’t forget to claim your Rewards points after you complete your Quests. Here’s a few of our favorites:
Control – 25 points: Master supernatural abilities (Play the game)
Dishonored 2 – 50 points: Get 5 Stealth Kills
Leaving Soon
With Dirt 5 coming soon, it’s time to say farewell to Dirt 4. Remember to get some practice in Dirt 4 before it leaves the library on February 24! Don’t forget to dive into the rest of the games leaving the Xbox Game Pass library on February 28. As always, you’ll be able to use your member discount to save up to 20% on games if you choose to purchase them before they go!
Leaving February 24
Dirt 4 (Console)
Leaving February 28
Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight (Console and PC)
Mother Russia Bleeds (PC)
Oxenfree (Console and PC)
The Jackbox Party Pack 4 (Console)
Vambrace: Cold Soul (Console and PC)
That’s a wrap for February! Coming soon next is March, which is when we’ll have more games to talk about! Until then, be on the lookout on our Twitter and Instagram channels to get a heads up when these titles join the Game Pass library. See you next time!
The critically acclaimed adventure game is now available on PlayStation and Xbox consoles, as well as on PC via Steam and—for the first time—the Epic Games Store
We’re thrilled to announce that award-winning adventure game Tales from the Borderlands® has officially returned to digital storefronts. The re-release version, which consolidates all five original episodes into a single package, is now available on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. You can also play the game on your Xbox Series X|S or PlayStation 5 via backwards compatibility.
Originally released as a series of five episodes between November 2014 and October 2015, Tales from the Borderlands is a choice-driven narrative adventure game that takes place between the events of Borderlands 2 and Borderlands 3. Experience this beloved story from the perspectives of two protagonists, thrown together in an unlikely partnership as they try to recover a mountain of money that each believes is theirs.
Fiona is a full-time con-artist who has been scheming to make a fortune selling a fake Vault Key. Rhys—who you might know from Borderlands 3 as the Atlas Corporation CEO—is an ambitious Hyperion employee who idolizes the recently deceased Handsome Jack and is in the market for a Vault Key. The deal they strike goes bad in ways that could only happen in the Borderlands, wreaking all kinds of mayhem. How the rest of the story plays out is up to you, as you make choices during explosive action scenes and conversations with familiar characters like Moxxi, Zer0, Marcus, and Claptrap.
Tales from the Borderlands is a crucial chapter in Borderlands canon, so if you haven’t yet experienced its chaotic, emotional journey, now’s the perfect time. This re-release includes all five of the original episodes in one package:
Episode 1 – Zer0 Sum
Episode 2 – Atlas Mugged
Episode 3 – Catch a Ride
Episode 4 – Escape Plan Bravo
Episode 5 – The Vault of the Traveler
Though you won’t be able to purchase episodes individually, you also won’t need to wait for each subsequent episode to release, and if you have an existing save file, you can pick up where you left off on the same platform. Note that cross-generation save transfers within the same console family are supported for the new Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 consoles.
Whether you’re new to Tales from the Borderlands or simply want to reacquaint yourself with Rhys and Fiona to take care of some unfinished business, we hope you enjoy your time with this unforgettable adventure.
And in case you missed it, the latest episode of The Borderlands Show was packed with exciting updates and announcements for Borderlands 3, including news on the upcoming Director’s Cut* add-on, the ongoing Broken Hearts Day seasonal event, and the brand new Disciples of the Vault premium cosmetic packs coming soon to Season Pass 2*. Be sure to catch all the news by visiting borderlands.com or newsroom.2k.com.
Tales from the Borderlands andBorderlands 3are available now. For assets and additional information, please visit newsroom.2k.com.
*Requires a copy of the Borderlands 3 base game to play.
Tales from the Borderlands is developed by Telltale Games and Virtuos for 2K. Borderlands 3 is developed by Gearbox Software for 2K. 2K is a wholly owned publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO).
Firaxis has shared a new game update videohighlighting upcoming changes, adjustments and additions coming to Civilization® VI in the February game update. Available for free to anyone who owns Civilization VI, the February game update is scheduled to go live on Friday, February 26. Ahead of the release, Firaxis will be doing a community livestream at 6 a.m. on Thursday, February 25.
In addition to balance and update changes, each game update includes a new feature, such as a scenario, game mode or customization. This month’s update includes the Barbarian Clans optional game mode*, the Leader Selection Pool and several balance adjustments and additional changes based on player feedback.
Barbarian Clans is a new optional game mode that completely changes how players will interact with the Barbarians. Driven directly by player feedback, gameplay with Barbarians has been greatly expanded beyond the standard kill-or-be-killed option. This mode introduces six Barbarian Clans that can be found living on or near different map conditions, each specializing in a different type of unit. Barbarian Clans accumulate progress each turn to convert to a city-state; players will be able to help or hinder their progress.
Destroying a clan will wipe it off the face of the map as usual, while choosing to Raid a clan will earn Gold and knock down some of the progress. Players can stop a clan from attacking their cities by paying a Bribe and also Hire a clan to add its strongest unit to their army. Units that are abducted can be retrieved by paying a Ransom and – of course – players can also spend Gold to Incite them and have them attack another civilization. Exchanging coins in these civilized encounters will boost the clan’s progress toward conversion to a city-state.
Similar to the Natural Wonder Picker and City-state Picker, the February update introduces the Leader Selection Pool. This feature allows players to customize the pool of leaders that can be used in the game. Find Trajan to be too big of a bully or want to play against a leader you haven’t faced before? This is now possible thanks to the Leader Selection Pool!
Finally, the February update introduces some new adjustments to the AI and balance changes. Driven again by player feedback, the bulk of AI adjustments will focus on air units and air combat where they deploy anti-air defences and engage in air strikes more frequently. Policy slots have been shifted for certain governments to more accurately reflect how those governments would run in reality and better align to anticipated playstyles. Some Natural Wonders have also been rebalanced plus additional text clarifications; many fans may be pleased to learn the Cliffs of Dover will now grant three Gold, three Culture and two Food. Full details will be available in patch notes that release alongside the update on February 25.
The February game update is one of many free updates that are a part of the overall content roadmap for Civilization VI, available to anyone who owns the game.
Firaxis Games is a 2K studio. 2K is a wholly owned publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO).
*Barbarian Clans game mode available to anyone who owns Civilization VI. Certain balance changes only apply to content from the Rise and Fall and/or Gathering Storm expansions.
Killer Queen Black Launches 4v4 Action February 23 on Game Pass
CHICAGO — February 16, 2021 —Killer Queen Black, the strategic eight-player arcade action platformer from Liquid Bit and BumbleBear Games, swarms Xbox Game Pass with cross-platform support when it launches Tuesday, Feb. 23.
Team up using Xbox’s party system to create the perfect squad of three workers and a deadly Queen. Workers collect berries to secure victory or bring them to upgrade gates to transform into flying, battle-ready warriors equipped with shields, laser rifles and more. Wield these newfound powers in an effort to slay the enemy Queen. She has her own tricks though, including wings, a Stinger Sword, and the ability to claim upgrade gates for her own team.
Seven single-screen maps ensure all players have an equal perspective of each competitor’s actions, similar to televised sports. Strive for and defend against three different victory conditions: Economic, Military, and Snail. In other words, fill the team’s hive with berries, take out the opponent’s Queen three times, or ride the slow snail into the goalpost. Killer Queen Black’s gloriously chaotic competition always has a satisfying level of tactical depth.
Play in private matches with friends, add local controllers to quickly drop into the party, and take advantage of Xbox Live’s party and voice chat services. Cross-play encourages teams to compete across Nintendo Switch and Steam. Gather friends and foe alike to fight, gather, and ride into glory.
Debuted by Nintendo at E3, Killer Queen Black continues the legacy of 2013 smash-hit arcade phenomenon Killer Queen Arcade. Now players can dive into intense, strategic battles at home with a new Glam Rock-inspired 16-bit pixel art-style. With Xbox joining the fray, the fight for the hive’s bigger than ever.
“Xbox and Game Pass are awesome platforms for Killer Queen Black,” said Matt Tesch, co-founder of Liquid Bit. “Xbox party tools make it easy to get right to the gameplay, and Game Pass means our community will have fresh fighters for a long time to come.”
Killer Queen Black will be available Feb. 23 in English on Xbox and Game Pass and on sale now for $9.99 on Steam, and $19.99 on the Nintendo Switch eShop.
To learn more, please visit the game’s official site, or follow the game on Twitter.
About Liquid Bit
A Chicago-based studio, Liquid Bit, is a group of builders, dreamers, designers, and developers. Liquid Bit makes games that bring people together through innovative gameplay and design and strives to go beyond just a game and deliver a connected experience. Liquid Bit believes that that good software should elicit an emotional response, but most of all believes that games are just more fun when played together.
BumbleBear makes games for smart people to play together in public spaces. Its “platform”, the New Arcade, is a blend of digital and physical worlds through arcade cabinets, installations, and VR. The team is based in Brooklyn, NY.
Just in, Hot Off the Wire: New Freelance Prospects on the Frontier
Three New Solo Play Missions in Red Dead Online
Calling all outworkers and hired guns roaming the frontier in Red Dead Online: make sure to check your unopened parcels as three new solo play missions are now available via telegram. Coming down the wire from a mysterious source known only as “J,” A New Source of Employment missions are for willing hands to complete dangerous tasks and assignments for monetary reward.
A One Horse Deal
The Braithwaites are negotiating a deal to buy a prized, untamed white Arabian racehorse from Emerald Ranch. Your task will be to intercept the deal, tame the unpredictable beast, an deliver the steed to your contact. This is a highly valued horse, so expect guards to give pursuit.
Rich Pickings
Rumor has it that the mayor of Saint Denis is busy lining his pockets with seized jewels smuggled into the States. The Mayor keeps his stash in his tightly guarded manor — break in, snatch the gems, and get back out alive.
Outrider
A wagon is making its way out of Brittlebrush Trawl, requiring a skilled individual to provide backup against attackers and roadblocks en route. Whether you escort on horseback or ride shotgun is up to you, but if the driver dies it’s on you to get the wagon to its destination by any means necessary — and don’t ask too many questions about the cargo.
Each new mission features three difficulty levels and will become increasingly challenging with each replay. To launch A New Source of Employment, check your mailbox at any local Post Office or your Camp Lockbox. And for all lone frontier explorers, these three missions are solo play only. View the Telegram in your Satchel to bring up any and all relevant information before setting out. And keep an eye out for new missions in the future.
Bonuses for Naturalists This Week in Red Dead Online Including Bonuses for A New Source of Employment, Plus Discounts on the Sample Kit, Wilderness Camps, and More
As A New Source of Employment beckons for those seeking fortune and adventure, there are also numerous other ways to get ahead this week in Red Dead Online.
Naturalist & Bounty Hunter Bonuses
Naturalists combing the wild in pursuit of rare animals should expect an increased frequency of invitations to Naturalist Free Roam Events, all of which will pay out double the usual RDO$ & Role XP.
Completing any Legendary Animal Sighting Mission for Harriet will earn you an Offer for 40% off an Established or Distinguished Naturalist Role Item, while Naturalists at or above Role Rank 10 will receive an Offer good for 40% off any Repeater.
If you prefer the most dangerous game, successfully bringing in any Bounty this week will get you an Offer for 40% off any Poncho.
A New Source of Employment Bonuses
As A New Source of Employment beckons for those seeking fortune and adventure, there are special incentives for taking on these dangerous tasks, along with numerous other ways to get ahead this week in Red Dead Online. Completing any of these new missions will get you 5,000 Club XP, RDO$100, and a Treasure Map — plus the following special bonuses for each one:
Complete A One Horse Deal to get an Offer for 30% off an Arabian Horse and 2 Special Horse Revivers
Complete Rich Pickings to get 3 Lost Jewelry and 3 Family Heirloom Collectibles
Complete Outrider to get 20 Small Game Arrows and 100 Express Revolver Cartridges
Those who have yet to unlock the secrets of the animal kingdom should do so this week, with 10 Gold Bars knocked off the cost of the Naturalist Sample Kit that is required to embark on the Naturalist Role, along with a 40% discount on the Wilderness Camp.
10 Gold Bars off the Naturalist Sample Kit
40% off the Wilderness Camp
30% off the Advanced Camera
30% off all Stable Stalls
30% off everything in Gus’ Store
30% off all Missouri Fox Trotters and Mustangs
Prime Gaming Benefits
Red Dead Online players who connect their Rockstar Games Social Club account to Prime Gaming will receive Rewards for:
A free Bounty Hunter License
An Award for the Trimmed Amethyst Bounty Wagon Livery
In addition, players who connect to Prime Gaming before March 15th will receive a reward of 200x Shotgun Slugs, 5,000 Club XP, and an offer for 50% off the Repeating Shotgun.
When we were designing Xbox Series X|S, we wanted to ensure that games feel true-to-life, load incredibly fast, and sound as if you were dropped in the middle of the action. We embraced spatial sound processing by including custom audio hardware to offload audio processing from the CPU, dramatically improving the accessibility, quality, and performance of these experiences. Having a high-quality set of headphones at an affordable price for your new console or existing Xbox One will help you feel immersed, react faster to the action, and connect further with your gaming worlds.
With each new generation of our Xbox accessories, we’ve raised the bar for innovation by focusing on performance, stand-out features, quality, and accessibility to deliver immersive experiences across console, PC, and mobile devices. We are excited to build on this legacy with the latest accessory to join the family: the new Xbox Wireless Headset.
The Xbox Wireless Headset delivers best-in-class audio and chat performance, outstanding design and comfort, and unique experiences that are tailored for each gamer. We are also looking forward to bringing more value to the headset category with innovations not previously found in this price range. We chatted with a host of folks from the audio engineering and design teams to learn more about what the new Xbox Wireless Headset will deliver.
Best-in-Class Audio and Chat Performance
The team spent countless hours studying what makes for a great audio experience, and because the team is familiar with the technology behind the Xbox Wireless protocol, they were able to introduce a fine-tuned and configurable auditory experience like no Xbox headset before. With the Xbox Wireless Headset, you can play loud and clear through low latency, lossless audio for exceptional sound quality.
The headset supports industry-leading spatial sound technologies including Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos, and DTS Headphone: X for realism and audio precision that fully surrounds you. You’ll have the advantage by being able to hear all the subtle, yet critical sounds (like enemy footsteps sneaking up on you) that elevate great gamers above the rest.
“We spent a lot of time in the audio testing chambers trying to characterize and understand how the headset reproduces audio in different room environments. It goes in your living room, game room, and dorm room and we want it to sound the best for all types of audio.” said Erik Garcia, Project Architect and Lead. “In the same way, the team studied gameplay to ensure great sounding chat with a sensitive mic to prevent background noise.”
In addition to best-in-class audio performance, the new Wireless Headset provides clear and intelligent chat audio quality. The new headset has dual beamforming microphone elements that focus on speech audio vs. surrounding sound. Additionally, voice isolation tuning helps the mic pick up your voice rather than background ambient noise.
When you aren’t talking, the auto-mute feature automatically mutes your microphone (this can be toggled on or off), so you keep comms channels clear, while the manual mute button gives you privacy when you need it. There’s a lot of attention to detail to be found on the new headset, and the mic is no exception. The team added a light indicator that turns on when the mic is active, so that you always know when your voice is being picked up.
Outstanding Design and Comfort
The team put a lot of energy into finding the right feel. The Xbox Wireless Headset is engineered for maximum comfort during extended gaming sessions with a lightweight design, ultra-soft large earcups made of polyurethane leather that distribute pressure evenly over the ears. It also features an adjustable headband with a thick cushion that easily fits wide-ranging head sizes and spreads pressure more evenly around the top of the head.
The design is intentionally understated and shares the same shapes and colours found on our new consoles. The controls and indicators mirror the circular geometry that informed the design of Xbox Series X and Series S. And much like our new Xbox consoles, the Xbox Wireless Headset is designed to blend into your living room without feeling out of place or obtrusive.
“We’ve learned that gaming is a deeply social activity. Especially nowadays, given the state of the world, gaming and communicating with others is a critical need. The team took a human-centred approach to design a headset that removes the unnecessary distractions so that players can focus on the game and their friends,” said Scott Wang, the Senior Design Researcher working on the new Xbox Wireless Headset.
Combining a sleek and modern design with high-quality materials and finishes the Xbox Wireless Headset has a durable frame with inner metal headband, rubberized dial rings for grip, and a fully adjustable mic that tucks up and out of the way when not in use. The rotating earcup dials of the new Xbox Wireless Headset provide an intuitive way to adjust the volume and game/chat audio balance with just a simple turn without interrupting how it rests on the player’s head. As Elie Ahovi, Senior Designer, puts it “we were driven by wanting every interaction with the headset to be delightful.”
Unique Experiences, Tailored to You
With the Xbox Wireless Headset, you can play wirelessly across multiple devices including Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows 10 PCs. The headset also connects to mobile devices via Bluetooth for on-the-go music or chat and to your console via Xbox Wireless technology just like an Xbox Wireless Controller, meaning there are no cables or dongles required. You can also simultaneously pair the headset to your phone and Xbox. That means, for example, that you can chat with a friend or – as the engineering team recalls doing – dial in to a conference call on your phone and play on your console at the same time.
The Xbox Accessories app on your Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows 10 devices lets you fine-tune the audio controls for a customized audio experience, including equalizer settings, bass boost, auto-mute sensitivity, mic monitoring, and brightness of mic’s mute light. Best of all, the headset can stay updated with the latest features via wireless updates from your console, ensuring you’ll have a premium audio experience that continues to evolve. Make sure you install all the latest Windows updates to enjoy audio customization features on the Xbox Wireless Headset when using the Xbox Accessories app on Windows 10 devices.
Finally, charging gets you back into the action in a flash: 30 minutes of charging provides about 4 hours of battery life, with only 3 hours of charging to reach up to 15 hours of battery life when the headset is not in use.*
Immerse Yourself in the Future of Gaming
The Xbox Wireless Headset delivers expansive sound, ease of use across devices, long lasting comfort, and customizable sound through the Xbox Accessories app. “We want it to be satisfying when you use it and want you to feel all the pleasure and joy you can get when playing the game,” said Elie. We are also excited to be adding many unique features not found in wireless headsets today, with an eye toward evolving the product over time with updates.
The new Xbox Wireless Headset will be available for $149.95 AU beginning March 16 in most worldwide Xbox markets and can be pre-ordered at select retailers, including Microsoft Store, starting on February 17 at 2 a.m. AEDT. Check your local retailer for product availability and specific pre-order timing in your region. For more product and pre-order details on the new Xbox Wireless Headset, visit Xbox.com.
*Battery life varies significantly with distance from console, additional accessories, usage and other factors. Testing conducted by Microsoft using pre-production units.
Assassin’s Creed® Valhalla’s Yule Season Update Introduces New River Raids Game Mode
Sydney, Australia — February 17, 2021 — Today, Ubisoft announced that a new update for Assassin’s Creed® Valhalla is now available, bringing additional free content to the game for all players: a new game mode, Jomsviking upgrades, new abilities and rewards, and two new unlockable buildings in the Settlement – the River Raid Dock and the Jomsviking Hall.
The River Raids is a permanent addition to the game and a new replayable mode enriching the raiding experience in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. The mode contains:
Higher-stakes raids, with unique maps and rewards, in which the player can raid without impacting their main game progression and alliances in England. Unlike the original raiding feature, the raiding crew can be temporarily lost if players don’t revive them during the raid.
A Jomsviking Crew: Recruited Jomsvikings (created by other players online) are led by the player’s personal Jomsviking Lieutenant.
A New Longship: An all-new fully customizable longship exclusive to the game mode – whose cargo hold can be upgraded to bring more resources back from River Raids.
The new Jomsviking Hall has three levels to upgrade in Season 1, with the higher the Hall’s level the higher the ranked Jomsvikings it will attract for the player to recruit. Jomsviking also now have ranks, with the higher ranked Jomsvikings having greater survivability in River Raids.
After players complete one of the first narrative arcs in England, either Grantebridgescire or Ledecestrescire, build their Barracks and recruit their Jomsviking Lieutenant, they will encounter a new NPC named Vagn and his crew of Jomsviking raiders, who will introduce them to the River Raids game mode. The mode introduces three new river maps set around the coastline of England full of locations to raid and treasure to loot.
Finally, the update brings additional abilities and rewards:
The Saint George Armor set and Great Sword
3 new Abilities, hidden in monasteries
2 new Settlement Buildings
A new set of longship and player cosmetics
The River Raids game mode update, a part of Season 1, is the latest addition as part of the Assassin’s Creed Valhalla post-launch experience, with a variety of new free content for all players focused on gameplay and world evolution coming throughout 2021.
Season 2, named Ostara, will start in March 2021 with a first update bringing a festival in the Settlement,a new game mode that builds on Valhalla’s core combat experiences, new gear and cosmetic items. More information about Wrath of the Druids, the first expansion of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla releasing in Spring 2021, will come at a later time.
With development led by Ubisoft Montreal*, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla offers players the captivating experience of playing as Eivor, a legendary Viking warrior, driven from Norway by endless wars and dwindling resources in ninth century AD. Players can relive the ruthless fighting style of Viking warriors with a revamped dual-wielding combat system and experience new gameplay features such as raids, assaults, and the settlement, as well as a revamped progression and gear upgrade system. Political alliances, combat decisions and dialogue choices can influence the world of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, so players must choose wisely to protect their clan’s home and their future.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is available on Xbox Series X | S, Xbox One consoles, PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, the Epic Games Store and Ubisoft Store on Windows PC, as well as on Stadia, Amazon Luna and Ubisoft’s subscription service, Ubisoft+.**
For more information about Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, please visit: assassinscreed.com
For the latest news on Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and other Ubisoft games, visit news.ubisoft.com.
*Associate Ubisoft studios are Sofia, Singapore, Montpellier, Barcelona, Kyiv, Bordeaux, Shanghai, Chengdu, Philippines, Quebec, Bucharest, Saguenay, Winnipeg and Pune. Additional help provided by external partner Sperasoft.
**$19.95 AUD per month. Cancel anytime. More information at ubisoft-plus.com.
About Assassin’s Creed
Since it first launched in 2007, the Assassin’s Creed series has sold more than 140 million games worldwide. The franchise is now established as one of the best-selling series in video game history. Recognized for having some of the richest, most engrossing storytelling in the industry, Assassin’s Creed transcends video games, branching out into numerous other entertainment media.
About Ubisoft
Ubisoft is a leading creator, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and services, with a rich portfolio of world-renowned brands, including Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, For Honor, Just Dance, Watch Dogs, Tom Clancy’s video game series including Ghost Recon, Rainbow Six and The Division. The teams throughout Ubisoft’s worldwide network of studios and business offices are committed to delivering original and memorable gaming experiences across all popular platforms, including consoles, mobile phones, tablets and PCs. For the 2019–20 fiscal year, Ubisoft generated net bookings of €1,534 million. To learn more, please visit: www.ubisoftgroup.com.
MARVEL’S AVENGERS ON NEXT-GEN CONSOLES AND OPERATION: HAWKEYE – FUTURE IMPERFECT LAUNCH MARCH 19, 2021
Upgrade to Next Gen and New Hero, Story, and Villain Coming at No Additional Cost
London, UK (February 17, 2021) – Today, SQUARE ENIX LTD announced that Marvel’s Avengers launches on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles across Australia & New Zealand on March 19, 2021 alongside the second new playable Super Hero for the game: Clint Barton, also known as Hawkeye, the unmatched archer with unerring precision. Players who own the PlayStation 4 or Xbox One version of the game can upgrade to the full next-gen version at no additional cost* and transfer their save game to keep their progress.
Clint Barton will bring his unique talents to the game’s roster as part of Marvel’s Avengers Operation: Hawkeye – Future Imperfect at no cost to owners of the core game on all platforms. In addition to a new playable Super Hero and the new chapter in the game’s ongoing Avengers Initiative story, Marvel’s Avengers Operation: Hawkeye – Future Imperfect also introduces a powerful new villain: Maestro, a version of Hulk with Bruce Banner’s brains and the Hulk’s strengths and abilities, now driven mad in an apocalyptic future.
Watch the Marvel’s Avengers WAR TABLE Deep Dive About Operation: Hawkeye – Future Imperfect
About Marvel’s Avengers on PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X|S
The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S version of Marvel’s Avengers offers higher framerates and enhanced visuals compared to current generation of consoles at up to 4K resolution on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and 1440p for Xbox Series S. The game utilizes the consoles’ built-in SSD for dramatically faster loading and streaming times and takes advantage of their graphics power and memory to deliver higher-resolution textures, farther draw distances for high-resolution models, improved heroics and armour destruction, and other enhancements that leverage the full might of these new consoles to make gamers truly feel like a Super Hero.
Players who transfer their profiles and save games to next-gen consoles continue the action right where they left off. In addition, cross-gen play is supported so PS5™ connect and play with their friends on PS4™ and Xbox Series X|S players can connect with their friends on Xbox One.
About Marvel’s Avengers Operation: Hawkeye– Future Imperfect
Future Imperfect’s story picks up in the wake of Clint Barton’s protégé Kate Bishop’s Operation, Taking AIM and can be played solo or with up to three friends to deliver the ultimate Super Hero experience. Players will learn more about Hawkeye’s quest to find Nick Fury, leader of SHIELD, who he believed could help stop the rise of AIM. What he uncovered instead was a dangerous new weapon being built by Scientist Supreme Monica Rappaccini that could change the fate of humanity. Along the way, Clint finds himself wrapped up in a time-bending experiment, journeying to a future Earth destroyed by cosmic forces and inhabited by Maestro, an older, twisted version of Hulk who is as smart as he is strong.
The lead-up to Future Imperfect began with Marvel’s Avengers Operation: Kate Bishop – Taking AIM, which launched on December 8, 2020. In Taking AIM, Kate Bishop, master archer and skilled gymnast, resurfaced after her investigation of Nick Fury’s disappearance following A-Day led to Hawkeye going missing as well. As she unravelled the mystery behind the sudden appearance of time-warping Tachyon Rifts, she uncovered a twisted new plan from AIM, which pushed her to work with the Avengers once again.
About Marvel’s Avengers
Marvel’s Avengers offers players a truly rich experience and combines the single player focused Reassemble story campaign with the ongoing Avengers Initiative’s War Zone missions, which take the Avengers around the world and beyond. Each mission in the Reassemble campaign is designed to showcase one or more hero’s unique abilities, while the Avengers Initiative missions can be played solo with your own custom AI team or with a group of up to four players** as any Hero in the player’s roster.
The narrative of Marvel’s Avengers will expand over time with the addition of new stories featuring new heroes, villains, mission types, regions, items, and more delivered to players at no additional cost once they own the core game. These stories move the entire Marvel’s Avengers narrative world forward on a multi-year arc, and all new missions are accessible to the entire roster of playable heroes.
Marvel’s Avengers is currently available on PlayStation®4, Xbox One, PC, and Stadia.
*Free upgrade available only from PlayStation 4 to PlayStation 5, or from Xbox One to Xbox Series X|S. Upgrade from PlayStation 4 disc version requires PlayStation 5 console with disc drive. Upgrade from Xbox One disc version requires Xbox Series X console.
**Internet connection required. Your platform’s online multiplayer requirements will apply.
About Crystal Dynamics Crystal Dynamics® has developed and published over 30 award-winning titles during its 28-year adventure. Some of the most beloved franchises include Gex®, Legacy of Kain® and most recently, TOMB RAIDER® which has sold over 81 million copies worldwide. With over 30 video game titles released and hundreds of awards, the heroine Lara Croft® has been a cultural icon for over 20 years and has made an indelible mark on virtually every facet of entertainment. Most recently, Crystal Dynamics expanded its operations by opening Crystal Northwest™ in Bellevue, Washington.
About Eidos-Montréal Eidos-Montréal™ (a Square Enix® studio) is focused on creating immersive and captivating experiences. For the last decade, the development teams at Eidos-Montréal have orchestrated the successful reboot of the DEUS EX® series (Deus Ex: Human Revolution®, Deus Ex: Mankind Divided®), released the latest entry in the THIEF® franchise, and have also played a key role in the development of the award-winning TOMB RAIDER® series.
Square Enix Ltd. develops, publishes, distributes and licenses SQUARE ENIX®, EIDOS® and TAITO® branded entertainment content in Europe and other PAL territories as part of the Square Enix group of companies. Square Enix Ltd. also has a global network of leading development studios such as Crystal Dynamics® and Eidos Montréal®. The Square Enix group of companies boasts a valuable portfolio of intellectual property including: FINAL FANTASY®, which has sold over 159 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 82 million units worldwide; TOMB RAIDER®, which has sold over 81 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS®. Square Enix Ltd. is a London-based, wholly owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.
Developed by Crystal Dynamics and Eidos Montréal. Development support provided by Nixxes. All rights reserved.
CRYSTAL DYNAMICS, the CRYSTAL DYNAMICS logo, CRYSTAL NORTHWEST, EIDOS, EIDOS-MONTRÉAL and the EIDOS-MONTRÉAL logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of Square Enix Limited. SQUARE ENIX and the SQUARE ENIX logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd. DEUS EX, DEUS EX: HUMAN REVOLUTION, DEUS EX: MANKIND DIVIDED, DRAGON QUEST, FINAL FANTASY, GEX, LARA CROFT, LEGACY OF KAIN, SPACE INVADERS, TAITO, THIEF, and TOMB RAIDER are registered trademarks or trademarks of the Square Enix group of companies. Nixxes and the Nixxes logo are trademarks of Nixxes Software BV. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. STEELBOOK is a trademark of Glud & Marstrand and is marketed globally by Scanavo.
PARIS — Feb. 16, 2021 —Necromunda: Underhive Wars, the thrilling turn-based strategy title from Rogue Factor and Focus Home Interactive based on Games Workshop’s iconic license, gets even more intense today with the release of the new “Cawdor Gang” DLC on PlayStation®4, Xbox One and PC!
The Cawdor bring a fanatical bent to the action-packed, vertical shootouts of Necromunda: Underhive Wars in both single and multiplayer modes. With horrific masks and vicious brutality, the Cawdor can shrug off blows that would fell other gangs whole. But they allow for the same suite of heavy cosmetic and gameplay customization as all of the game’s playable gangs: recruit and customize your fighters to create a truly unique and dangerous fighting force through your choice of careers, perks, skills, equipment, color schemes, and more.
In addition, today marks the release of the Gold Edition ofNecromunda: Underhive Wars, featuring the base game plus both DLC gangs (the Van Saar and the Cawdor) in one package. On Steam, the Gold Edition bundle also includes the game’s digital artbook and OST. Furthermore, players who already own the base game of Necromunda: Underhive Wars can pick up the new “Gangs Bundle,” which combines the Cawdor and Van Saar DLC gangs in one package at a discounted price.
To celebrate today’s releases, Necromunda: Underhive Wars and its Gold Edition are each available at a significant discount on Steam for a limited time. For more information, visit the official store page.
