280°

Microsoft makes DirectX 11.1 exclusive to Windows 8, no support for Windows 7/Vista

DSOGaming writes: "Okay everyone, you did see that coming, didn't you? Well, it appears that DirectX 11.1 will be an API that is exclusive for Windows 8, just like DX10 was for Windows Vista and DX11 was for Windows 7 (well, that was until MS released a Vista version for it). This does not shock us at all, as Microsoft is simply trying to make everyone upgrade to its latest OS, by any means necessary."

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dsogaming.com
Muffins12234191d ago

Well it's not that much different from dx11 so i think its safe to say game developers wont use it.

nukeitall4191d ago

Well, just enable it for people on Windows 8 and stick to DirectX 11 for the rest. No big deal.

Most likely you can't even tell the difference if they were put side to side.

Grap4191d ago

it's not like DX12 or something. and MS trying to sell it's new OS.

badz1494191d ago

about their dislike of MS's approach with 8! and there are still not many games even DX11 enabled yet! there are games released recently still using DX9 for god sake!

I'm gonna side with the devs on this and stay with 7! I don't see the need for 8 just yet and my Win 7 64bit is still good enough to serve several more years!

da_2pacalypse4191d ago

I don't plan to ever upgrade to that awful windows8 platform. Microsoft is turning windows into a half-assed version of apple... and that's sad, because apple is already a half-assed version of windows OS.

Anon19744191d ago

So, Windows 8 is a half assed version of Apple OS which is sad because the Apple OS was a half assed version of previous windows OS's, is that what you're saying? And what, pray tell, was the Windows GUI originally accused of being a copy of?

Short memories around here.

At any rate, I'll pass on Windows 8 for now. I've learned over the years, no good comes of jumping on board new Window's OS's. If they flop, MS pulls the plug quickly and even if they don't, they often end up being pretty damn buggy until at least the first major service packs. Operating systems are an instance where it's never a good idea to be an early adopter.

nukeitall4191d ago

@darkride86:

"At any rate, I'll pass on Windows 8 for now. I've learned over the years, no good comes of jumping on board new Window's OS's. If they flop, MS pulls the plug quickly and even if they don't, they often end up being pretty damn buggy until at least the first major service packs. Operating systems are an instance where it's never a good idea to be an early adopter."

My experience has been that since Windows XP, every Windows release has been pretty rock solid. No problems at all except incompatible drivers.

If anything it is more an issue of learning the new things.

I don't know why people keep saying early releases are buggy, but I believe it is a myth. It's got to be, because nobody I know have any real issues.

hellvaguy4190d ago

I guess it's just human nature to be scared and stubborn toward change with little to no evidence to support being bias.

Reminds me of when checking accounts came out and all the old timers refused to put money inside of banks. They just keep fist fulls of money balled up inside of their matresses.

+ Show (1) more replyLast reply 4190d ago
ATi_Elite4191d ago (Edited 4191d ago )

See this is the CRAP that makes many top tier PC Devs such as Valve and Blizzard wanna go the OpenGL route!

No one wants to have to deal with Microsoft and it's greedy tactics when it comes to DirectX!

Forcing Gamers to buy Windows 8 just to get DX11.1 is gonna hurt the development of games using DX11.1 (although the improvements from DX11 are minor). This same tactic hurt the development of DX10 Games by forcing that Vista crap on Gamers.

No one wanted Vista therefore the list of DX10 games was small and DX10 never got any attention from DEvs and had it's problems fixed!

When will Microsoft grow the "F" up and stop this nonsense of trying to force Gamers to buy your Crappy OS's by weaving DirectX into them.

DirectX should be an api that runs fluid on any MS OS and should never be tied to just one OS version!

Windows 8 is crap and is really of NO Use to Gamers or anyone who doesn't have a touch screen. Actually Windows 8 is even more of a turn off to Gamers cause at anytime Microsoft may force Devs to pay higher fees cause of the stupid app store.

It's time for PC Gamers to step up and petition Devs to go all out for OpenGL and alternative Operating systems so that DirectX and Microsoft can DIE when we no longer buy Windows!

OpenGL, Linux, Chrome OS, and I'm even waiting for the glorious day when Apple Execs Open up OSX to freedom!! If Apple wants more market share in teh OS business then all they have to do is Open OSX up and make it Gamer friendly!

Windows and Microsoft are nothing but an eyesore on PC Gaming!

I will NOT be buying Windows 8 but I will find an alternative way to get DX11.1 on my PC just like I had DX10 but never bought Vista!

Windows 7 is just fine and should get the DX11.1 update just like WinXp was deserved the DX10 version!

hellvaguy4190d ago

Sounds like you want private companies to give you all kinds of free technology. Maybe this socialist approach should be called ObamaDX11.1.

TheModernKamikaze4191d ago

I hate it when Microsoft does this, even if it's a minor thing.

Prcko4191d ago

microsoft
fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu

DaThreats4191d ago (Edited 4191d ago )

How about MAC?
@below
Oh yeah thats right

wishingW3L4191d ago (Edited 4191d ago )

DirectX is an API developed by Microsoft and only for Windows. Macs are OpenGL only.

Braid4191d ago

You can install any Windows version to your MAC though. MAC, being the platform, supports Windows installations through Bootcamp, that way you can get your DX9-10-11-11.1 games running on your MAC as well.

MAC OS X, being the operating system however, will never get DX support, as it's owned by Microsoft's software department.

NYC_Gamer4191d ago

MS is just trying to move more W8 copies

mcstorm4191d ago

And do you blame them? Its like Sony or Nintendo stopping development on there consoles for the next.

At the End of the Day MS are a business and to make money you need people to buy your products.

Also is this really a big Deal MS offer anyone using XP, Vista and 7 a Pro upgrade of Windows 8 for £24.99. To me is a no brainer. Your pc will start-up faster and in general see an improvement in speed and you also get D11.1 support.

Ive been using Windows 8 on my work pc for a few months now and I have to say I like it a lot more than the old style windows plus my 3 year old laptop runs a lot better with the new software to.

For me Im going to get a surface pro next year and this will replace my laptop and Xoom as it will be a decice that will do everything I need it to do as a tablet and laptop.

MidnytRain4191d ago

I don't know much about computers, but I don't think it's the same thing. New consoles are more capable than their predecessors. Here, Microsoft seems to be making DX11.1 exclusive to Windows 8 just because they can (money). Even then, at one point, some games were developed for both PS2 AND PS3, as well as the GameCube and Wii.

mcstorm4191d ago

@MidnytRain I know what your saying but Windows is a peace of software like Android or IOS. Apple don't give the new Iphones everything that the new Iphone gets IE Seri.

Or Samsung not offering the latest build of Android on there tablets. Example the Samsung Galaxy 10.3G is still running version 3.0 yet my Xoom is running the latest version of Jelly bean and they are both the same spec and the Galaxy 10.1 is about 3 months newer.

This is the same thing with Windows. Just like consoles, Phones ect its a new OS and MS need to give reasons to upgrade to it. The never gave Windows XP IE9.

People will moan no matter what MS, Sony, Nintendo ect do with any of there products but at the end of the day MS want to get as many people to move over to there new OS system as this is the look of MS now and by getting new users on Windows 8 will help them in selling more Windows Phone 8 and Xbox/Kinect devices as this is there eco system.

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300°

Microsoft Survey Asks About Handheld

A new survey from Microsoft has further hinted at the possibility of an Xbox handheld being in development.

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twistedvoxel.com
EasilyTheBest4d ago

This is definitely happening, I just hope they have 2 versions one with a much bigger screen.

GamerRN3d ago

I'll be happy with this, and a PC console hybrid that rivals anything we have power wise

Number1TailzFan3d ago

The problem with bigger devices is playing them on your side in bed, Vita and before that was fine. Since the Switch you gotta have a gooseneck holder & controllers detached so you can lie down holding them, or your arm will quickly get tired.

1Victor3d ago

@thesofware: “A much bigger screen than what?”
A gaming laptop 🤷🏿🤣

Kosic3d ago

Than the screen originally planned...duh... :D

darthv723d ago

it kinda already did... https://www.xbox.com/en-US/...

They are just gauging interest in one of their own.

crazyCoconuts3d ago

A Xbox version of Logitech G-Cloud?
I mean, why bother? Not like the G cloud is flying off shelves and what would Xbox add to make it better?
They're surely not going to create bespoke architecture here and there are already a few Windows handhelds out there. I have little confidence in their ability to put together an attractive UI in the way Steam did. So I doubt anything will come from this.

KicksnSnares4d ago

Day One buy for me if they'll make a dedicated handheld device.

darthv724d ago

i have that logitech g-cloud. Its a sweet little piece of kit. I like that it can also install games from the play store unlike the other android based handheld.

mudakoshaka3d ago

It sure is! Don't understand why you get the down-votes. Whoever does not like the G Cloud must have been dropped down a well, head first, when they were of a younger age.

PassNextquestion4d ago

I wonder if Microsoft will perform better in Japan if they do actually make a handheld since everyone says handheld and mobile are king over there.

TiredGamer4d ago

This looks like the future of the game industry... all three platforms with a handheld option.

I wonder if the Playstation Portal is a technology test-bed/prototype for a future Playstation handheld?

rlow13d ago (Edited 3d ago )

It’s a possibility but I can’t help but think would that be the best way to go about it? Though it would give you data on how much it is used and game type. It’s still not a true portable device and so people approach it differently. I think that data on phones, tablets, and of course the competition would give a better indication.

But I really think if Sony is considering a new PSP that could play ps5 games, now would be the time to dive in. Honestly, if they do this, it would be huge.

Traecy3d ago (Edited 3d ago )

Doubt if Sony PS wants to support a new handheld with first party games. Something they lacked with the Vita. What they should do is have a handheld that is like the PS Portal which can play all games but play those games on the go as well as at home. Something like that is a better investment.

TiredGamer3d ago

Agreed that you will probably never see a separate line of games specifically for the handheld (a la PSP or PSVita). The modern economics and expectations of game development make that cost prohibitive. What makes more sense is if the full-fat game on PS5 or PS6 has a special "handheld" profile that is automatically optimized for the lower spec handheld. There would be some significant compromises compared to the bigger console variant, but it would be the same game overall and would only require a single purchase.... somewhat what the Switch does with a lower resolution when playing handheld versus docked.

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310°

Xbox Games Showcase Followed by [REDACTED] Direct Airs June 9

- Xbox Wire - Mark your calendars! The Xbox Games Showcase followed by [REDACTED] Direct airs June 9. More info inside.

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news.xbox.com
bionicstar4d ago

Will they show Fable 4, Stalker 2, GoW 6 & Perfect Dark?

PhillyDonJawn4d ago

Crossing fingers for Fable and perfect dark. And State of Decay 3

RaidenBlack4d ago (Edited 4d ago )

And maybe Clockwork Revolution, South of Midnight, Contraband, Project 007 & OD? lol
and whatever happened to Everwild ?
+ that rumored Wu Tang RPG

Sonic18814d ago (Edited 4d ago )

Will they have official release dates and gameplay?

anast4d ago

Another game pass event with their plans to go all streaming.

4d ago
Lightning774d ago

It's an Xbox showcase that they have every year.

Make smarter comments for once.

anast4d ago (Edited 4d ago )

Tell me what a smarter comment is.

If they don't sell game pass the entire time, then I will be wrong. All of this can be proven once the show gets underway. Let's wait and see.

InUrFoxHole3d ago

@Anast
Anything you didn't type. Good day sir!

4d ago
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4d ago Replies(1)
Lightning774d ago (Edited 4d ago )

Wow too easy.

You went from MS going all streaming to selling gamepass content in which we all know they are.

Which one is it?

Pretty clear you don't know what a smart comment is at least you admit you don't know.

4d ago
anast3d ago (Edited 3d ago )

"Another game pass event with their plans to go all streaming."

It's both. I would worry about your own intelligence at this point. It seems that there is not enough to go around for you to worry about how smart other people are.

Lightning773d ago

It's just a regular event announcing games. Nice one captain obvious they're gonna mention gp stuff like they do every year what else is new.

The all streaming part is just you, being you I guess. They have streaming options but going all streaming again is just you pulling stuff outta thin air.

anast3d ago

You don't know what a smart comment is or isn't. You're welcome for the help.

Lightning773d ago

No you said something dumb then you tried to back track and mention GP.

Again make smart comments for once.

anast3d ago

And we have broken record syndrome.

+ Show (6) more repliesLast reply 3d ago
darthv724d ago

Wonder if they will address the handheld rumors....?

jimb0j0nes4d ago

For a brief moment I thought we might get a whole Direct for Gears 6 - seems like it's COD though!

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290°

Microsoft’s Surface and Xbox hardware revenues take a big hit in Q3

Microsoft just posted the third quarter of its 2024 fiscal financial results. The software maker made $61.9 billion in revenue and a net income of $21.9 billion during Q3. Revenue is up 17 percent, and net income has increased by 20 percent.

Read Full Story >>
theverge.com
darthv729d ago

Xbox content + services up 62% while hardware down 31%... seems about right with the way they tout you don't need the hardware to play. People can play on their phones or smart tv or other means. I don't hardly play on my consoles directly since getting devices like the logitech g-cloud and ps portal. Which is to also say I have been playing more digital than physical because of these devices.

solideagle8d ago

you should apply in MS PR team buddy, I think you will do a great job in my humble opinion :)

Sonic18818d ago

I thought darthv72 and Obscure_Observer already work for Microsoft 🤔

dveio8d ago

MS: "Xbox services and content without AB up 1%, with AB up 62%. Hardware down 31%. In total a loss of 350 mill."

darthv72: "Seems about right."

MS: "Excuse m ..."

darthv72: "I don't hardly play on my consoles directly."

MS:

Lightning778d ago

What he said was facts. How he plays games is no concern of you. Don't get too mad about it.

Cacabunga8d ago

I can tell people like you are an absolute minority..

If service is up means their fans and fanboys accepted this model and subscribed to it. The near future you will see a big decline because the service is saturated.

darthv727d ago

to you it may seem like the minority... but your bubble is shrinking because more and more are following suit. convenience is a hell of a drug and its also why physical sales only amount to 30% of overall game sales. times are changing, you either get with them or you get left behind.

neutralgamer19927d ago

Darth

30% physical sales: yet Phil and xbox division are in a rush go give up on that 30%. they don't have any right to give up any piece of the pie since the control such a little of the pie to begin with

also, the market is clearly speaking that the model Xbox is pushing isn't working right now the keyword being right now. you are right about freedom to play anywhere so i hope they put their games on steam

shinoff21838d ago

But that's been ms for years. When things aren't going their way they try to change the way things are said. For instance console sales are down, they stop telling how many sold instead telling us how many hours spent in halo or headshots. So it makes sense console sales down just say people are playing on more devices then previous. What they won't say is how many xbox players jumped ship to ps5.

Cacabunga8d ago

Hardware sales are so bad that Sony and Nintendo are blowing the sales off the water with their hardware.

If Xbox are losers, others aren’t..
Xbox already tried everything with Xbox live then subscriptions went down so much that they had to find something else. Their fans subscribed then reached saturation rather quickly.

Hardware and exclusive games is where it’s at! Keep gamers excited, announce decent software and people will support you

itsmebryan8d ago

@shin
Well keep it simple Sony 's operating income is down 26% and Microsoft's is up 32%. No MS spin there, just facts. 😉
Cheers

S2Killinit7d ago

MS is after diminishing consoles as a medium. They want to destroy this market because they couldnt win. MS’s vision is to dissolve console gaming.

romulus238d ago

Odd that a company that touts you dont need the hardware to play is already touting another console in the works.

darthv728d ago

They are not reliant on the HW but still want to maintain a presence (no matter how small) is a good thing. It shows commitment to the craft. It reminds me of SNK and how they made games for their own hardware (Neo Geo) while also making them for others because they knew there was a market to do so. They knew they would sell more to others but also sell to their own niche fan base.

TheEroica7d ago (Edited 7d ago )

Perfectly reasonable post down voted by insecure corporation friendly folk.... But not gamers. Real gamer want accessibility and ease of acquisition for all.... Company shills are the only ones still telling us that hardware locking people from games is good for us.

Chevalier7d ago

@Darth

You should stop parroting metrics like an idiot without context.

"Xbox content and services revenue grew 62% in Q3 from a year earlier, “driven by 61 points of net impact” from the purchase of the third-party video game giant, Microsoft said."

61 of the 62% was from their merger so net increase is ONLY 1%

https://www.mesaonline.org/...

itsmebryan7d ago

@chevalier

It looks like made a great purchase. Much better then Sony buying Bungie. 😉
Cheers

+ Show (4) more repliesLast reply 7d ago
purple1018d ago

Xbox hardware revenue tanks to lowest point of Xbox Series generation

Profchaos8d ago

I'm not surprised surface is struggling they aren't relevant anymore

DOMination-8d ago

In the last two years they've started exiting the consumer market altogether. All of the newest Surface products are business models only. They can't seem to work out what they want to do with it.

XBManiac8d ago

Too expensive hardware when others offer the same or more for less? Good work, Green Team.

SimpleDad8d ago (Edited 8d ago )

"Despite some early successes for Xbox games on rival platforms, Xbox hardware is down by a massive 31 percent this quarter."
"Without Activision Blizzard, Microsoft’s overall gaming revenue would have actually declined this quarter."
"Xbox content and services would have only been up a single percent without Activision Blizzard..."
"It looks like next quarter is going to be a similar story for gaming at Microsoft, too."

That is crazy... so A/B/K is carrying the whole Xbox gaming.
Oh and Microsoft will be fine. Windows, Office and Cloud are growing with each pc purchase.

purple1018d ago

Activision: "we gonna need a bigger rucksack/backpack please"

Microsoft: "why's that"

Activision: "to carry yo' weak ass'

Profchaos8d ago (Edited 8d ago )

Top brass have also wanted to start seeing returns on the 100 billion they have put into various Xbox related moves so seeing more multiplatform games is highly likely especially from abk

It's basically saying that PlayStation is the reason Xbox is afloat right now thinks to Ps5 versions of COD

Kornholic8d ago

So basically PS and PC gamers' money is keeping Xbox on life support.

MrDead8d ago

The only growth MS will get out of the console industry is if it supports it's rivals platforms. Xbox is a pointless machine now. I can see them on a big push for live next, and they won't give up on trying to buy Steam.

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