750°

Minecraft to Join Microsoft

Xbox :

"Today is an incredibly exciting day for our team as Mojang and the Minecraft franchise join Microsoft. Minecraft is one of the most popular video games of all time, with more than 100 million downloads, on PC alone, from players since its launch in 2009. Minecraft inspires millions to create together, connects people across the globe, and is a community that is among the most active and passionate in the world."

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news.xbox.com
Smurf13518d ago

It did happen. Why did you waste money Microsoft? :/

n4rc3518d ago

While I ask myself the same question..

I can't argue with a company that rakes in the money ms does.. They obviously have a plan for them, we just don't know it yet

Gazondaily3518d ago

This is a big move by MS. I wonder if a Minecraft sequel is in the works? I suspect they have big plans for Mojang beyond just the Xbox One.

uptownsoul3518d ago

Like you all, I don't understand Microsoft's end-game here. They're still going to support Minecraft on all devices, so I'd like to see they plan on doing.

Blastoise3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

Minecraft is a huge seller, its not just about the Xbox brand Microsoft would probably get more money by just letting it continue to sell on Playstation & IOS. Plus theres the huge amount of merchandise out there. Thats why they bought it, I assume.

christocolus3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

@n4rc

Totally agree

@septic

They definitly have bigger plans for minecraft, mojang and future ips&it makes me wonder if MS has other plans in the works to aquire more studios.

MeliMel3518d ago

@septic,

I believe so to. Also since Minecraft is an awesome creative game. Do you think Project Spark tool set would somhow be intergrated into the next game along with what Minecraft already has? Maybe im getting way to ahead myself on this one.

MeliMel3518d ago

@ Christocolus,

Its possible. I remember reading here. That MS was looking at acquiring more studios and ips.

ABizzel13518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

$2.5 billion buying a company that you still have to invest in.

Instead of $2.5 billion split among your first party developers. Even at 100m per game that would have been 25 exclusives for the XBO (5 more AAA exclusives to your line-up for the next 5 years).

I understand why they bought them, because how big the company has become, but it was a wasteful move IMO, and the fact they're able to spending that much money on one company goes to show this move wasn't specifically for Xbox, it was for MS.

I guess Minecraft on every PC is the real motivator. It's a way to start selling more computers, and build up their OS offerings. As for XBO it might even be a free game that's part of the Dashboard OS, and push console sales (but you can upgrade for $5, so I don't see how that really helps).

MeliMel3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

@abizzle,

The more i read about how MS should spend the 2billion. The more i forget how much $$$ MS has. I mean, MS has enough money to buy Minecraft for 2bil and still do what you really think they should.

uptownsoul3518d ago

@Blastoise
I get what your saying about Minecraft being a huge seller, but it's not like Microsoft was desperate for money. And what I found odd was the announcement itself…Microsoft has an announcement for the Mojang acquisition but the rest of what they said was just "charlie brown adult talk"

ABizzel13518d ago

@meliMel

It's not even the money that bothers me, we all know MS is a multi-billion dollar company. It's the fact that they're investing so much in acquiring a company, and not in the studios developing games for them, or scouping up 5 mid-sized studios at $500m a piece, or even 25 smaller studios at $100m a piece.

That's why this deal is more for MS than it is for Xbox.

And I truly think MS is reshaping the Xbox brand to be less of a traditional console, into more of a software service of Windows Games (they already have an Xbox app for Windows 8).

I still think we'll see a console next-gen from MS, but it'll probably be a PConsole just like the Steam Machines where it's all off the shelf parts thrown into a console box, but still aimed at core gamers, and at the same time setting the standard for which PC games are developed for hardware wise.

XBLSkull3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

I wouldn't mind that, a more closed console experience at a small base price that would play all games throughout its lifecycle, but people could buy better hardware to get better performance if they so chose. Kind of like the RAM upgrade in the N64.

I love the power of my gaming PC and that I can upgrade it, but Xbox Live is a superior experience to orgin/steam/PSN/etc. Microsoft being such a huge company has nearly limitless potential in the gaming industry

GribbleGrunger3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

It's good news that they openly stated they're going to support the PS versions, so it's not quite as bad as it could have been. How swiftly they support the PS versions and to what standard is another thing.

It's also worth noting that this effectively makes MS a third party developer. Could this perhaps persuade MS to consider going a similar direction with other franchises?

Thantalas3518d ago

Really clever title to the news.

It's not: 'Microsoft BUY Mojang' because it makes it sound like MS are the greedy bad guys buying up the indie companies in an involuntary takeover.

It is: "Mojang JOIN Microsoft" which has a much more friendly angle and makes it sound more like Mojang are voluntarily joining a team.

Clever stuff press releases!

Volkama3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

The way they talk makes it sound like the Minecraft IP really is the motivation for this buyout. But then again it is usually best to try and ignore the things that PR mouthpieces say, so who knows.

I played Minecraft for the first time ever yesterday (because my wife things it would be a good choice for my children). I can understand some of the appeal, but honestly I think Project Spark would be more worthy of any time spent being creative.

gootimes3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

It sells really well on PlayStation, and they put 2.5 billion into it, so they are going to want to sell it on EVERYTHING they can until they get the investment back. That is how I see it... I think it still sells well at least, I haven't really checked lately actually.

SilentNegotiator3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

Because everything Microsoft has ever done has made lots of money?

3+ years ago, this might have made a lot more sense. There's no telling if Minecraft will stay this popular and make their money back in a timely fashion.

mikeslemonade3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

Good for gamers, good for the industry, and I'm happy. If you can't see it then you lack common sense.

Even if I didn't have a X1 I would be happy. When TR was timed exclusive and I only had a PS4 I was happy too.

InactiveUser3518d ago

That's the first time I've seen Phil not look like a douche. Obviously a lot of corporate talk in there, but it was a professional and quality announcement. I'm surprised he actually said PlayStation. I know the rumored plan was that it wouldn't become exclusive, but I don't think I've heard him mention PlayStation before in an official announcement beyond the twitter 'congratulations on the PS4 launch' type statements.

It probably works out money wise, since the game sells a lot as far as I've heard. I think it was a bad buy though. That money could have funded a lot of quality exclusives. Instead they get a game that looks like it's ~20 years old and won't even be exclusive.

Doubtful at the moment, but is this a sign of Microsoft positioning itself to becoming the next Sega; getting out of the console business and focusing on multiplat software?

MrPink20133518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

How would the reactions have been if Nintendo bought them? Not nearly as bad or pessimistic I imagine. Which goes to show the responses mainly stem from people who dislike the company yet have very little interest in what Microsoft may do to further innovate the Minecraft franchise. Look at where they took Halo and how they marketed that. You think anyone other than Microsoft has the financial backing and the technology to make it even bigger than it currently is now?

Minecraft had become way too big with way too much responsibility for a small studio to handle. Of course someone was going to take over. What's next is anyone's guess but unlike Angry Birds this has a much longer lasting appeal just like how kids still play Lego after all these years.

miyamoto3517d ago

M$ thinks money can buy success against the PlayStation... but that is all M$has as a company - tons of money.
Other than that.... like brains, creativity, originality, passion, vision, etc.

M$ is the Unicron of gaming.

In every emerging market of computing technology whether:
personal computers (the Apple Macintosh), then MS DOS and Windows
word processing (Word Perfect), then M$ Word
internet browser(Netscape), then IE
video games (PlayStation 2 & PlayStation exclusive games), then Xbox
mp3 players (iPod), then Zune
smartphones (iPhone & Android), then Windows Phone
tablets (iPad & Android), then Surface
search engines(Google) then Bing
etc etc

Microsoft is the unoriginal, second rate trying hard, copycat, money monster bully who always wants to steal market share from the original upstarts, then try to monopolize it and in turn destroying everything!

Minecraft is going to be destroyed like Nokia & Rare its 100% guaranteed.

n4rc3517d ago (Edited 3517d ago )

Have you seen their earnings reports lately dude?

What you just said is a baseless fanboy rant.. If they suck so bad and don't know what they are doing, how do they manage to rake in billions a month?

Or do they "steal" that too? Grow up

All the products you mention were beaten by a better product.. That's how business works..

Do I need to start listing who invented the TV or surround sound or console gaming just to make Sony look bad? Damn second rate copycats!! Lol.. can't they do anything original?

See? Pretty silly yes?

+ Show (18) more repliesLast reply 3517d ago
nX3518d ago

Because they are bold and shameless, they should've made that deal 3 years ago. I wouldn't say it's too late now but it's very risky since everyone and their mother owns Minecraft already. The good thing is that we'll probably get a heavily funded Minecraft 2 out of this.

equal_youth3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

do you think we will be getting minecraft 2 on playstation as well? i am just curious as i would think they will bring it exclusively to xbox brand and pc.

nX3518d ago

^I'm almost sure it will be PC/Xbox/Windows Phone exclusive. I'm fine with that as long as I don't need a Xbox for it.

Lawboy23518d ago

@ equal youth.

He said that it will continue on playstation

Dontworrybhappy3518d ago

Why not keep it on Playstation as well as bringing it to Nintendo? Would'nt they make more money selling it on more platforms.

Tuviejacalata3518d ago

Awesome deal. Congrats to mojang. Can't wait to see what they do next. Minecraft 2 has the potential to be the most addicting game ever with all the resources they have now.

+ Show (2) more repliesLast reply 3518d ago
equal_youth3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

i had so much hope in notch doing the right thing. its like george lucas had sold the star wars franchise to FOX in the 70s.

Edit @ Bloodborn: Yeah but my thought was that it may make more money for notch over the time he is living when he keeps the rights for himself and his company.

nX3518d ago

You would do the same, just like the Oculus guys selling out to Facebook. Money makes this world go round, I wouldn't care about the "right thing" when there are billions at stake that will change your live forever.

jackanderson19853518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

didn't necessarily waste any money (although most definitely spent some cash)... they could have opted for a share transfer or share transfer/cash ...Notch gets 1 bil worth of shares (less than .06% of MS total worth), the other guy gets .8bil and then 700mil cash split between them in whatever percentages.

Also MS get all assets and investments that Mojang are in so that also gets added back to MS.

Once the deal is finalized the actual money cost to MS will pop up and i honestly doubt it'll be that much considering the size of the deal

finally, MS are expecting to make the 2.5billion back by the end of FY15 so they obviously know something is up

blackout3518d ago

I also read something about Microsoft recouping the money back by the end of 2015/16. Also this, Just think of the tool set that will be used for future Minecrafe and Project Spake games. The possibilities are endless with this purchase. I'm in the clouds just thinking of a Project Spark & Minecrafe high-bred. WoW, and it's going to stay on all platforms. Get that money Microsoft.

3518d ago
mark3214uk3518d ago

they criticized oculus for selling out to facebook now they have done the same, bunch of hypocrite

-Foxtrot3518d ago

Never really thought of that

DarkOcelet3518d ago

Oh well there goes the money for 25 new AAA IPs :/

Trolltroll3518d ago

$$$$$$$$

Lets do some quick math if they release Mincraft 2 or Minecraft MMO (this will happen) and lets just say they sell the same quantity of PC only games that is 100mil plus. Lets pretend that make 20$ per game that is 100mil×20$= 2billion + the new minecraft is windows & xbox one exclucives.

have a good day everyone. A lot of good games are comming our way soon.

lelo2play3518d ago

Such insanity. Minecraft is not worth 2.5 billion. So many studios and games Microsoft could fund with this money.

otherZinc3518d ago

This purchase is to the individuals that thought the XBOX ONE & XBOX Division wasn't "profitable", it is.

M$ is investing in the XBOX ONE, heavily, in:
343 Industries:Halo
Gears Franchise
Turn 10:Motorsport & Horizon
NFL
Minecraft
Kinect:it isn't going anywhere
Remedy:Quantum Break
App Functionality
XBOX Live

And, if you only care about games, XBOX ONE has more AAA exclusives than the PS4 at the time.

BallsEye3518d ago

Mojang is probably working on Minecraft 2 for a long time now. I doubt all ttheir manpower goes toward a sh!tty texture packs and occasional update. Ofcourse in addition to that, now MS will get money from every copy sold, even on PSN.

ZombieGamerMan3518d ago

@ GribbleGrunger Well guess Sony won this war then if MS are now supporting the PS4 with a game, the Sega approach.

Berenwulf3518d ago

That's why I don't like Microsoft... Minecraft will never be the same!

Ulf3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

They didn't waste money at all.

Let me point out some facts that most people ignore, and let readers draw conclusions as to why Minecraft is worth $2.5B:

First, the obvious, but not most important reason:
0) Minecraft makes money... over $1B to date.

And now to GOOD reasons:
1) Mincraft is written in Java. Java is a language owned by the Oracle corporation, and Oracle makes zillions from letting Java run on over 3 billion devices.

2) Microsoft has a language similar to Java (but better), called C#, which is slowly gaining traction, but its too slow to overtake Java, really.

3) Minecraft is a game, and is fun to mod. LOTS of young people learn Java for pretty much this reason alone. Minecraft is, in fact, used in some countries (and now some parts of the US), to TEACH PROGRAMMING... in Java.

...and now.. the thrilling conclusion, for those who haven't figured it out:

4) Minecraft 2.0... could be now be written in C#, and would then only run on devices that are running C#, giving C# a HUGE leg up against Java, its primary competitor.

Microsoft makes a game console to support the rest of their business, folks. They make DirectX/3D so that you will game on a Windows platform, and they make a console with a PC-like API so that game developers will NOT abandon Windows gaming. MS knows that $2.5 billion is worth it, if C# gets a shot at beating Java as the byte-code cross-platform language of choice in the future.

Owning the biggest reason for kids to learn Java, over C#, is a big step for them.

HugoDrax3518d ago

Interesting! and an intelligent analysis my friend. Bubble + for you :-)

silvacrest3518d ago

interesting analysis but what if minecraft loses popularity before microsofts master plans takes shape?

gangsta_red3518d ago

Very intelligent Ulf.

Good to see some like you are thinking the long term and outside the box and not just the standard "MS wasted their money" or "MS should have bout more____".

Minecraft is a huge IP and with it being on virtually every system including the PS brand it will only rake in more money for MS. Not to mention any other project Majong may be working on.

mcarsehat3518d ago

I....what? Waste????

This can only spell good things for Microsoft, they bought one of the biggest companies on the planet, they have bought into a game that is home to millions of players that isn't just a game, it is a tool, it is big in schools, it can help autistic children interact and learn in new ways. They could even make a professional Minecraft for Builders and Graphic Designers (that last bit was a joke but you never know) and it will get them billions int he process.

I don't even play Minecraft and i know how good the possibilities could be.

ziggurcat3518d ago

"It did happen. Why did you waste money Microsoft?"

because they obviously would much rather rest on the laurels of an existing franchise rather than spend that money on taking a few risks with new IPs...

C-H-E-F3518d ago

Because Microsoft is worth over 280billion and can do that?? LMFAO. I'm not a fan of Minecraft actually never owned an Xbox but when you have the funds to disrupt others financial flow from which you are at competition with. Well, you do what you have to do to get it done. Was it worth the purchase? Time will tell, but sheesh that money could've went in soooooooo many other places for the overall game division.

+ Show (14) more repliesLast reply 3517d ago
Paprika3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

Mojang to work on kinect sports titles. Bingo, classic exclusives. Yeah... right!

Mojang is not minecraft in its entirety. Minecraft was gold, is mojang truly going to continue producing blockbusters? No... not IMO.

gamerfan09093518d ago

So they bought the studio to not have them keep making Minecraft? How does that make any sense in your logic whatsoever?

Jdoki3518d ago

Well, not saying I agree with Paprika, but you could use Rare as a measure.

After Perfect Dark on the 360 how many of Rare's old IP have they developed?

Rare had tonnes of AAA IP when MS bought them, and not only have Rare not developed those, but the new IP they did create (Viva Pinata, Kameo, Ghoulies) have disappeared too. Instead they have been making mostly Kinect shovelware

So I don't think there is any guarantee that Mojang will be on Minecraft for the long term. Many of the ports have already been spun off to other devs - such as the popular 360 version.

Paprika3518d ago

When did I say they'd ditch minecraft? Buying mojang is the headline, they are basically buying the IP minecraft this is the value not the dev. Minecraft has however peaked massively and I don't see a sequel creating as much hype as the original did. Myopinion, its pretty obvious the money used to buy "minecraft" could've been used to create flagship games halo sized with core gamers.

I understand why ms bought it, its great business as a brand they now control. But it largely changes nothing for us, minus maybe mc2 bring exclusive.... which I don't care as its better on PC anyway

jrshankill3518d ago

While I agree that it will be difficult to capture lightning in a bottle twice, it is still a good acquisition for any company. It has made Mojang a ton of money. I feel a lot of negativity here comes from the fact that it was Microsoft who bought Mojang. If it was Sony I am sure the comments here would be different.
No one knows for sure but I would expect Minecraft 2 to be an exclusive. I also see a high res remake of Mincecraft in the pipeline for Xbox One only. It may take away the charm, but it will still take away the money from parent's pockets.
Money is being made, companies are happy, the fans get new releases with a load of cash and resources (excuse the pun) put behind it.... win win.

Redgehammer3518d ago

Minecraft is a timeless game, a great entry point for all types of individuals into the world of gaming. My sons still play it, I play it, and kids in diapers now, will be playing it in their future. A future, I believe, that is more guaranteed. The digital cousin to Legos, Minecraft, too, will never go out of stile. I think its a great acquisition, as long as all platforms are supported.

3518d ago
Hellsvacancy3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

Does anyone know how much money Microsoft invested in the XB1? MS could've bought loads studios etc with that 2.5 billion, they've basically given the people at Mogang eary retirement money

hello123518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

They've set up five new first party studios already it was discovered a few months back and those studios are hiring at the moment

http://static1.gamespot.com...

Microsoft has 86 billion to invest in new projects, so they can do what they like if the choose to.

lol the reason i gave for Microsoft buying Minecraft turns out to be true. I said last night on N4G it was due to activity charts for 360 showing Minecraft in the top three most played games. Phil Spencer just said it there too.

Minecraft was a huge game on 360 and no surprise Microsoft wanted it.

Kayant@ They're studios hiring at the moment, we see if games will come from them.

Kayant3518d ago

Those studios also don't seem to be full development studios from the info found. They are more support helping out other studios/incubation as of now.

http://www.neogaf.com/forum...

Above is the source from where this was discovered.

uptownsoul3518d ago

I agree that Microsoft has plenty of money $86B to invest. But Microsoft has been making poor choices with their money…Prime example: Why take the Kinect out of the box. Microsoft has now made 2 separate classes of Xbox One owner (those with Kinect and those without). Some can use all the Xbox One features (snap, xbox on, record that), some can't…And all of that could have been avoided had Microsoft used a fraction of that $86B to just drop the Xbox One w/Kinect down to $399. If they did that, then people could leave the kinect in the box until they heard about a feature that intrigued them. Instead, 2 separate classes of Xbox One owner (those with Kinect and those without)

ABizzel13518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

Those aren't "new studios". They were second teams that supported games from the larger studios, usually making DLC and assisting with development when needed, or former Kinect studios.

The fact is 2 or 3 of their games have been scrapped, curiosity of Phil which is why the Tomb Raider deal was made. MS was trying to make their Uncharted, and didn't like what was being done.

I truly don't understand what MS was thinking here They could have invested 100m dollars in 25 New Exclusives for the same price as buying Mojang. It just doesn't make sense, unless their goal is to sale computers by having Mojang free in every new PC.

This purchase has to be greater than the Xbox division, because there's no way they spent 2.5 billion to buy just 1 developer, a bigger developer with multiple IPs under their belt.

Once again this is really has me believing that the next Xbox will be heavily PC focused, and be a PConsole. Like the Nintendo rumors have me believing their next console will be a handheld-hybrid.

If all this pans out, I want my royalties MS and Nintendo, cause you've been reading my blogs and comments. I want my check, and I'll gladly settle for a few million each. And Sony I want my check for giving each platform the space to grow and dominate your own market of gaming, so send a few million my way too.

Baka-akaB3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

I dunno how why time is wasted defending this from a gamer's viewpoint . It's a great move on the financial end for MS and Mojang most likely .

But are we accountants , share holders and do we work for those people ? for the most part nope .

So on our end , as gamers , and regardless of how much MS already invested in new studios ... it's still 2 bellions (last i heard) being poured into a single game studio , when it could be used to create and push more games .

This deal mostly help the minecraft franchise , and the wallet , not so much the rest .. at least not directly

imt5583518d ago

Looks like studios ( except Good Science ) are for technology or something.

https://careers.microsoft.c...

Maybe it will be some new IP.

Well, not all of these studios are game makers.

+ Show (2) more repliesLast reply 3518d ago
nX3518d ago

Notch will probably celebrate this every day for the rest of his life, he probably became the Bill Gates of gaming today.

tablecloth3518d ago

True, they could have made new studios but they come at risks whether they would succeed or not.
Minecraft could be compared to Mario, in a sense that it has a wide range of audience if not bigger. Merchandise, conventions and lots of word of mouth. It surely will be interesting to see what Microsoft will do with it.
Xbox/PC/Windows Phone exclusive for the next Minecraft perhaps and if not, they could probably earn their money back if they go multi-platform if they play it right.

blackout3518d ago

Thank you. Someone with a brain. This is huge news.

3518d ago Replies(1)
GUTZnPAPERCUTZ3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

They bought a "Proven" developer, instead of potentially wasting money on supporting new ones that are unproven, play the best hand dealt.

LordMaim3518d ago

Rare was a proven developer too.

+ Show (2) more repliesLast reply 3518d ago
Kayant3518d ago

"At Microsoft, we believe in the power of content to unite people. Minecraft adds diversity to our game portfolio and helps us reach new gamers across multiple platforms. Gaming is the top activity across devices and we see great potential to continue to grow the Minecraft community and nurture the franchise. That is why we plan to continue to make Minecraft available across platforms – including iOS, Android and PlayStation, in addition to Xbox and PC. " - Well looks like bloomberg were right unsurprisingly. I wonder if Minecraft 2 is in the works and how that will be handled. I expect marketing to be Xbox/PC/WP centred.

SoulWarrior3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

Good of them to allow it to release and be supported across all platforms, it would hinder the game to keep it exclusive and glad MS saw sense in this, and it will net them loads of extra cash.

Hope the other platform holders don't have any problems with this.

Kayant3518d ago

"Hope the other platform holders don't have problems with this." Would be stupid if they did. The game prints money on EVERY platform it's on.

jrshankill3518d ago

but wait.. Microsoft is evil and want to monopolize gaming!! How dare they let their property be on different consoles??!!

mark3214uk3518d ago

if they make a sequel i can guarantee you it will be exclusive to x1

Cherchez La Ghost3518d ago

It seems like people don't know how much money this will bring to MS. It takes money to make money.

Baka-akaB3518d ago (Edited 3518d ago )

I just question how much of that profits will translate into more games for us . I'm sure some of it will , but i feel we'd benefits from more directly with even a portion of the sum invested in other games .

It's one issue i already had with the 360 days . Sure MS being financially healty was nice , but it could have translated into more of the benefits poured into more games for 360 , especially last year , at the "end" of it's cycle and before the shift to xb1 .

Show all comments (198)
300°

Microsoft Survey Asks About Handheld

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

Read Full Story >>
twistedvoxel.com
EasilyTheBest3d ago

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

GamerRN2d ago

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

Number1TailzFan2d 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.

1Victor2d ago

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

Kosic2d ago

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

darthv722d ago

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

They are just gauging interest in one of their own.

crazyCoconuts2d 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.

KicksnSnares3d ago

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

darthv722d 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.

mudakoshaka2d 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.

PassNextquestion2d 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.

TiredGamer2d 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?

rlow12d ago (Edited 2d 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.

Traecy2d ago (Edited 2d 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.

TiredGamer2d 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
bionicstar3d ago

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

PhillyDonJawn3d ago

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

RaidenBlack2d ago (Edited 2d ago )

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

Sonic18812d ago (Edited 2d ago )

Will they have official release dates and gameplay?

anast3d ago

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

3d ago
Lightning773d ago

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

Make smarter comments for once.

anast2d ago (Edited 2d 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.

InUrFoxHole2d ago

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

3d ago
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2d ago Replies(1)
Lightning772d ago (Edited 2d 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.

2d ago
anast2d ago (Edited 2d 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.

Lightning772d 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.

anast2d ago

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

Lightning772d ago

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

Again make smart comments for once.

anast2d ago

And we have broken record syndrome.

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darthv723d ago

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

jimb0j0nes3d 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.

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theverge.com
darthv727d 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.

solideagle7d ago

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

Sonic18817d ago

I thought darthv72 and Obscure_Observer already work for Microsoft 🤔

dveio7d 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:

Lightning777d ago

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

Cacabunga7d 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.

darthv726d 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.

neutralgamer19926d 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

shinoff21837d 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.

Cacabunga7d 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

itsmebryan7d 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

S2Killinit6d 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.

romulus237d ago

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

darthv727d 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.

TheEroica6d ago (Edited 6d 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.

Chevalier6d 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/...

itsmebryan6d ago

@chevalier

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

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purple1017d ago

Xbox hardware revenue tanks to lowest point of Xbox Series generation

Profchaos7d ago

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

DOMination-7d 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.

XBManiac7d ago

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

SimpleDad7d ago (Edited 7d 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.

purple1017d ago

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

Microsoft: "why's that"

Activision: "to carry yo' weak ass'

Profchaos7d ago (Edited 7d 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

Kornholic7d ago

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

MrDead7d 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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