Defining Duke: An Xbox Podcast

After months of dooming, Xbos fans needed a big win. In the humble opinion of the Dukes, Xbox absolutely delivered on all levels. Missing games finally received needed updates with Perfect Dark and State Of Decay 3. The Coalition finally gets the spotlight in a shocking Gears announcement: a prequel set during E-Day! Furthermore, tons of third parties showed up in a big way from a new Life Is Strange featuring Max Caufield to a stunning turn-based gem in Expedition 33. Returning games like Fable, Avowed, South Of Midnight, and Indiana Jones among others all showed out! Truly, it was one for the books, so join us as we recap one of the best ever showcases to go down in gaming. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Xbox Games Showcase 2024 is soon upon us meaning it's time to unite with Xbox Two for our annual predictions show! Joining us is Rand Al Thor 19 to dissect what feels like another "must win" situation for Xbox. As per usual, we run down the multitude of first party studios, now including Activision, and debate heavily what will make the cut. Will they renew their vows with hardware? Can Xbox manage to massage concerns surrounding some of their lingering games like Perfect Dark and State Of Decay 3? What surprises can they bring to the table? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The next major release in Xbox's first party family has arrived! Senua's Saga: Hellblade II has seen an increased amount of pressure placed upon it as concern for the platform holder as ramped up. Stripping ourselves from the heightened emotionality of that situation, how does over five years of development, a team size four times bigger than the original, and a big Microsoft check benefit the newest entry in the Hellblade series? The Dukes are joined by Gene Park where all three were able to play through the game a week ahead of its launch and let their thoughts marinate. Sitting at an 82 on OpenCritic, Hellblade 2 is off to a solid start, but where do the Dukes sit? Well, it's time to dig deep and find out! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:06:00 - Ninja Theory's next game greenlit 0:15:57 - Xbox games to PS5 0:20:38 - Xbox 360 JRPGs 0:26:39 - Lies of P DLC confirmed for second half of 2024 0:30:34 - GTA 6 launches Fall 2025 0:35:53 - Star Wars Total War game coming from Creative Assembly 0:39:47 - Assassin’s Creed Shadows revealed 0:56:09 - Valve’s Deadlock leaked 1:00:15 - Larian opens up new studio 1:03:39 - Kingdom Hearts comes to Steam on June 13th 1:11:55 - IGN acquires a ton of gaming news outlets 1:20:19 - What We’re Playing 3:11:03 - Activision opens studio called Elsewhere 3:20:16 - Call Of Duty to Game Pass is all but confirmed 3:33:36 - Final updates for Redfall and Hi Fi Rush 3:37:53 - Game Pass Pick Of The Week Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The dust has settled since Xbox closed four different Bethesda studios. Many expected the team to go into hiding as there is no good answer for this outcome, but they did the opposite. Xbox President Sarah Bond showed up to a Bloomberg interview and gave a mind boggling non-answer that has sent this already wounded fanbase into another outrage. Naturally, the Dukes dive into this as well as your many questions about how the optics have shifted for the Xbox business moving forward. We also dive deep into the dramatic changes that Square Enix has undergone wher they have now moved into a multi-platform approach. What Square Enix games are headed to Xbox and when? The Dukes dig into to find out. Plus more on Perfect Dark and State Of Decay 3's status, Assassin's Creed Shadows, SEGA's plans for Persona, and so much more! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:14:59 - Jeff Grubb's report on Perfect Dark, Gears 6, and Dragon Age 0:25:00 - Square Enix reveals multiplatform strategy 0:44:40 - Hi Fi Rush update from Limited Run Games 0:45:01 - Jez Corden has heard that State Of Decay 3 is looking very good 0:47:10 - SEGA is annualizing Persona, Yakuza, and Sonic 0:54:13 - Assassins Creed Shadows revealed 1:00:01 - Activision appears to be working on a new IP 1:01:44 - EA is considering putting ads in games 1:06:44 - ROG Ally X announced 1:12:41 - Suicide Squad was more costly than we thought 1:14:38 - Jake Solomon (XCOM, Midnight Suns) opens new studio 1:20:00 - Xbox is adding the ability to pre download updates 1:23:16 - Fallout 4's update gets a patch 1:25:34 - What We’re Playing 1:38:12 - Hellblade 2 gutcheck 2:01:46 - Cog on Xbox Leadership 2:18:34 - Selective outrage with studio closures 2:30:50 - The Dukes thoughts on the importance of "Xbox engagement" 2:46:12 - Sarah Bond’s interview with Bloomberg 3:23:18 - Coming soon to Xbox Game Pass… 3:26:24 - Game Pass Pick Of The Week 03:30:40 - Wrap up Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A nightmare year for Xbox continues. The latest chapter in this story is Xbox's shuttering of four Bethesda studios in Tango Gameworks, Arkane Austin, Roundhouse Studios, and Alpha Dog Games. The message is clear that the experimenting days of Xbox are done as the strategy deployed by its leaders continues to fail. The focus is Call Of Duty, Fallout, DOOM, and other high profile titles while the future of surrounding creative studios like Obsidian, Compulsion, Ninja Theory, and others have uncertainty beginning to cloud them. It serves as yet another powder keg moment for the brand where fan patience has run out. Is it time for the Phil Spencer era to end? How is Hi Fi Rush considered a hit yet its studio is shutdown? Why is the leash so short for teams like Arkane Austin while 343 and The Initiative can afford to waste precious resources? Is it even possible for Xbox to restore the faith at this point? You have many questions, so do we, and one thing is for sure: Xbox is still finding out the answers to all of them. Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:03:47 - What We’re Playing 0:32:09 - Xbox shuts down four Bethesda Studios 2:40:49 - Game Pass Pick of the Week 2:43:03 - Looking ahead to the Xbox Showcase Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following the Fallout TV show's massive success, the clamoring for a new game has never been louder. This isn't Bethesda's first rodeo with such demands. However, with a new owner and the most eyes ever on the product, Todd Howard has finally said that they are investigating ways to deliver more Fallout games. What would a roadmap for Fallout look like in the near, mid, and long term? The Dukes aim to break down what looks to be a busy few years for Bethesda. That's because it's not just Fallout, but Starfield that is also gaining traction! Almost eight months after its launch and things were admittedly starting to look bleak after few content additions have been made. With the May update, it finally is gaining momentum with peeks at land vehicles, Shattered Space, and more! Plus more on Xbox's summer showcase being announced, what the mysterious Developer Direct game will be, Xbox's plummeting hardware sales, and so much more in a jam packed week! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:10:49 - Starfield's Insane May Update 0:32:56 - Fallout is collaborating with Call Of Duty 0:35:38 - Xbox's Hardware Plummets 0:46:41 - Id@Xbox x IGN showcase recap 1:03:00 - Watch Dogs is dead and buried 1:07:33 - Updates on Remedy 1:12:49 - Square Enix undergoes major business shifts 1:20:04 - Tekken Season 1 update 1:26:33 - Hasbro’s leap into AAA 1:35:18 - What We’re Playing 2:07:37 - Xbox Games Showcase 2:41:09 - Todd Howard interview 3:00:24 - Coming soon to Xbox Game Pass 3:02:03 - Game Pass Pick Of The Week 3:04:58 - Dealing with game criticism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

ATLUS has shown out once again in what has been a phenomenal roll for the company. With a 20+ minute showcase under our belts, Metaphor: ReFantazio is looking absolutely fantastic. More importantly, it's not just fantasy Persona, but aims to be much more and potentially far more complicated. The Dukes dissect this incredible looking JRPG, mull over what it means for Persona 6, as well as overstate the importance of Xbox having the marketing for this will be. Naturally, we continue to talk about Fallout as we see the franchise continue to hit unbelievable metrics. Perhaps more shocking is that Fallout 76 has seen a tremendous bounceback unto itself with positivity beginning to surround the game for the first time since its Steam launch in 2020. Plus more on Starfield updates, game preservation, Kena: Bridge Of Spirits coming to Xbox, and much more! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:14:01 - Fallout Season 2 0:19:18 - Fallout games are thriving 0:39:27 - Game publishers won’t support libraries for preserving online games 0:49:24 - Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 announced for 2024 0:56:16 - An update for World of Warcraft on consoles 0:58:31 - Sonic Frontiers 2 leaked from Midori 1:07:15 - IGN x iD @ Xbox Showcase 1:12:04 - Kena: Bridge Of Spirits rated for Xbox 1:13:36 - Meta is making a limited edition Xbox inspired quest headset 1:22:05 - Embracer Group is splitting into three companies 1:27:23 - Jedi Survivor is available on Game Pass 1:30:02 - What We’re Playing 2:02:48 - Metaphor Re: Fantazio showcase 2:34:24 - Todd Howard says “really good updates for Starfield are on the way” 2:48:31 - Coming soon to Game Pass Core 2:49:20 - Game Pass Pick Of The Week Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's been a Fallout filled week! With the tremendous success that is the TV show, the hunger for a new Fallout has arguably never been higher. Following our spoiler filled discussion of the TV show, we circle back to the timely question: What can Xbox and Bethesda accomplish with this franchise? Having InXile and Obsidian in the family is a match made in heaven, the remaster opportunities are plentiful, and yet, nothing is happening beyond the show. Even the next gen update arrives weeks after the show has aired! Whether it's mismanagement, overprotection, or slow moving relations, a series of this magnitude can no longer remain dormant in the game's space as it has beyond its live service title. The Dukes dive into the options available to Bethesda and how they could navigate such a task. Plus thoughts on PlayStation's move to PC with trophies, Persona 1 & 2 remakes, an Elder Scrolls show, Towerborne's beta, and plenty more! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:10:25 - Todd Howard discusses Elder Scrolls show 0:15:06 - Fallout is topping paid charts for Xbox 0:18:35 - PlayStation is going all in on PC 0:31:04 - Persona 1 & 2 are receiving remakes 0:35:54 - Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 reveal 0:41:54 - Dead Space is on hold 0:46:10 - A new Baldur's Gate game is on the way 0:52:25 - Iron Man and Black Panther is open world 0:54:50 - Skydance is making a AAA Invincible game 1:01:19 - Towerborne beta details 1:03:32 - Lawbreakers is returning... kind of 1:08:41 - Mafia reveal possibly coming soon 1:12:57 - Blizzard is Blizzard 1:17:55 - Sea Of Thieves hits 40 million players 1:20:23 - Star Wars Outlaws controversy 1:26:20 - Hollow Knight Silksong rated in Australia 1:28:30 - What We're Playing 1:49:23 - TMNT: The Last Ronin is getting a movie 1:53:56 - Keanu Reeves is Shadow The Hedgehog 1:59:51 - Fallout 4's next gen update, TV show spoilers, and what's next for the series 2:46:00 - Coming soon to Xbox Game Pass 2:51:09 - Game Pass Pick Of The Week 2:55:26 - How does YouTube work? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's a little early for the usual summer showcase leaks, but here we are nonetheless! Gears Of War stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Halo when it comes to importance during the Xbox 360 generation. Despite that, the series has never earned itself the "Master Chief Collection treatment" nor has developer The Coalition received its flowers for its consistency during a barren generation. With insiders already hyping up Gears 6 behind the scenes, the Dukes discuss what Xbox coudl do to make the most of this moment. At the same time, this showcase is seemingly being set up to cast a wide net. While 2023's summer show featured a look at the slate of first party studios that Xbox has acquired over the years plus a strong Japanese presence, it appears this is going to be the first time Activision defines a showcase. It's been said that Call Of Duty Black Ops: Gulf War is set to be revealed during this show. Perhaps more interesting, Xbox has invested in a "game preservation team" with insiders suggesting more announcement beyond just a new Call Of Duty being present for the franchise. Could backwards compatibility be making a return and how far will they go? Plus more on Xbox's next console, how Sea Of Thieves is possibly a testbed for more Xbox games heading to PS5, and so much more! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:15:49 - Hellblade 2 previews are out 0:32:24 - Xbox CVP Kareem Choudhry is leaving Microsoft 0:35:44 - Xbox renews commitment to China in major way 0:45:08 - Star Wars Outlaws release date and new trailer 0:52:37 - The Dead Space Remake 2 kerfuffle 0:59:18 - Pocket Pair announces Pal Arena 1:00:41 - 33 Immortals finally gets a date 1:04:12 - Canceled Batman game leaked 1:08:07 - Sands Of Time Remake details 1:10:15 - What We're Playing 1:33:23 - Persona 6 1:39:54 - Even more Xbox leaks 2:01:20 - Game Preservation 2:29:30 - This is just the start for Xbox games on other consoles 2:33:07 - Game Pass Pick Of The Week 2:36:50 - How to get in the mood to game Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

t's quiet... Too quiet. Indeed, we've found ourselves in the "pre-showcase lull" for Xbox. Still, we have some big news to sift through. For starters, independent developers have thrived during the era of Xbox Game Pass thanks to massive bags being handed out for day one access which compliments the lower budgets of these titles. According to prominent indie developers, that gold rush is over. The Dukes dive into the future of Xbox Game Pass. If the way Xbox sells games is changing and the layoffs that have occurred all circle around the sustainability of the business, then there's no reality where Game Pass gets out unscathed. So, what are they changing, how do indies factor in, and what does it accomplish? Speaking of indies, it would see that Hollow Knight Silksong is finally on the way. When will this massive game land for Xbox and is it sooner than we expect? Plus, more on the questionable state of Final Fantasy 14, the future of KOTOR Remake, Dragon's Dogma 2's success, and so much more! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:15:03 - Final Fantasy 14's launch on Xbox is bad 0:19:47 - KOTOR Remake is alive and well 0:27:45 - Take Two now owns Gearbox 0:33:48 - Dragon's Dogma 2 has sold 2.5 million copies 0:36:11 - Details on the next Yakuza game 0:38:36 - Certain Affinity hit with layoffs 0:40:23 - Xbox has a new AI chatbot for support 0:46:02 - CD Projekt Red talks microtransactions 0:48:15 - What We're Playing 1:26:20 - Amy Hennig's Star Wars game 1:32:45 - Xbox's indie gold rush is over 1:46:32 - Hollow Knight Silksong coming soon? 1:50:33 - Coming to Xbox Game Pass 1:54:41 - Game Pass Pick Of The Week 2:01:46 - How to build the ultimate man cave Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're at the point in Xbox's lifespan where the sensitivity is at an all time high. By that, we mean that the reaction to certain pieces of news is heightened considerably and is leading to even a singular comment spiraling into chaos. That's just what happened this week when, once again, we hear how Xbox is struggling. This time, it hails from the EU region where Christopher Dring states that a major game publisher questions the support of the platform in general. Naturally, this has been spun and applies to every conceivable developer under the sun. The Dukes approach this from two angles. For starters, how can Xbox escape the rumor mill and begin controlling the narrative? Is there something they can do to wipe away the doubt that gives legs to simple murmuring? Secondly, if true, what does this mean for Xbox? Separately, comments from Phil Spencer have indicated that extra money could be sought out in other areas of the industry. From Windows Central claiming an Xbox handheld prototype is in the works and Phil Spencer's recent interview signaling an infatuation with the Xbox handheld idea, it seems that their hardware push is far from over. Phil also spoke about bringing digital storefront like Epic Games Store and Itch.io to Xbox. Is the long term vision and all encompassing box full of all your games from all platforms? As always, it's never a sure bet with Xbox, but the Dukes do their digging nonetheless. Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:17:43 - Microsoft Rewards shutting down 0:24:55 - Xbox is integrating Battle Net with Game Pass? 0:37:57 - Phil Spencer wants to bring Epic Games Store to Xbox 0:51:58 - Sea Of Thieves is getting a massive update for its PS5 launch 0:54:49 - Marvel 1943 launches in 2025 0:58:07 - Marvel Rivals announced 1:07:09 - Grounded's final update gets detailed 1:16:08 - Xbox reaches an agreement with Toys For Bob 1:17:38 - SMT V new date 1:18:36 - Shinji Mikami's new studio accidentally leaked 1:22:40 - Yoshi-P teases FF16 for Xbox 1:25:58 - Resident Evil 9 may go open world 1:32:13 - Sonic Heroes is getting a remake in 2025? 1:38:06 - Star Wars Outlaws rated in multiple regions 1:41:53 - What We're Playing 2:25:51 - Elder Scrolls VI is playable 2:30:28 - Xbox is prototyping a handheld 2:48:44 - Developers are apparently wondering why they're supporting Xbox 3:07:52 - Game Pass Pick Of The Week 3:14:33 - Ending Questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A new development kit has been certified for Xbox in South Korea! With leaks showing an all digital Series X on the way, this originally felt like a news story you brush by and not much else. That was the case until we learned a key bit of information that flipped the conversation on its head: This certification couldn't be for a digital Series X. So, what is it? The last certification seen for Xbox hardware was with the Series X around five months ahead of its launch. We know Sarah Bond recently stated that Xbox has committed to more hardware in the future. Could it finally be the Xbox handheld set to launch this holiday? Naturally, the Dukes are giddy about this concept and dive deep. We also lament the state that Battlefront Classic Collection has launched in, mull over the state of PocketPair, enjoy Xbox's 4D chess play with Sea Of Thieves newest SKUs, and dive into the latest changes at Bungie and Blizzard. Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:11:11 - Bungie replaces Marathon director 0:19:42 - Massive changes hit Overwatch 2 0:27:27 - Jim Ryan opens up 0:31:07 - Ereban: Shadow Legacy is longer coming to Game Pass 0:36:17 - New Sea Of Thieves editions announced 0:45:15 - Pocketpair 0:51:03 - Fallout's TV isn't interested in pleasing fans 0:59:19 - Xbox has a new VP of Global Partnerships 1:00:43 - Halo Infinite March Update 1:03:28 - Grandia HD Collection is coming to Xbox 1:05:02 - Connie Booth is headed BioWare 1:08:13 - Sand Land demo is available now 1:12:29 - What We're Playing 1:46:00 - PS5 Pro leaks. Should Xbox match it? 1:58:35 - A new Xbox development kit has been certified 2:22:40 - Coming Soon to Game Pass 2:32:00 - Game Pass Pick of the Week 2:36:19 - Ending Questions and Wrap up Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The data is starting to roll in as Sea Of Thieves is available for pre-order on PlayStation. Beating out the likes of Star Wars and Dragon's Dogma, this once Xbox exclusive has found itself at the #1 spot for the weekend. While it's initial data, it's the first sign that Xbox's big play just might pay off. Naturally, it opens the familiar can of worms in wondering what will go multi-platform next. We also discuss Todd Howard's seemingly innocent comments on Fallout 5 that, according to Matty, imply much, much more. Plus, another Tekken 8 showdown, celebrating the work of Akira Toriyama, discussing what's going on with Sweet Baby Inc, and so much more! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:13:46 - Pentiment's Framerate 0:15:58 - Peter Moore Interview 0:25:17 - Halo MCC Is Done 0:30:07 - Persona 3 DLC on Game Pass 0:35:03 - Ni No Kuni stays on Game Pass 0:36:26 - Last Case 0:39:23 - Moon Studios Future with Xbox 0:42:37 - Multiversus Returns In May 0:45:00 - Dragon's Dogma 2 Updates 0:55:52 - What We're Playing 1:37:26 - Akira Toriyama's Passing 1:47:47 - What's going on with Sweet Baby Inc 2:13:09 - Todd Howard's Fallout 5 Comments 2:28:06 - Game Pass Pick Of The Week 2:51:02 - Final Questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week featured the second ever Xbox Partner Preview! Consisting of 14 different games, Xbox shined a spotlight on AA partners, made some Game Pass announcements, and had a shadow drop to boot. The Dukes dive deep into each game individually and rank the showcase shortly thereafter! We also get into the loss of Toys For Bob who announced that they'll be going independent while maintaining a partnership with Microsoft. Have they managed to escape the Call Of Duty sweatshop and will others request the same? As we see Embracer shedding off two studios of its own, the Dukes wonder who the next domino to fall will be. Plus, Starfield's March update, a Spongebob Xbox Series X for sale, Warner Bros. stampeding against its own momentum, and much more! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:10:34 - Starfield update 0:16:25 - KOTOR Remake is free from Embracer 0:26:34 - Baldur’s Gate 3 Physical update 0:28:16 - Fallout, Spongebob Xbox 0:36:20 - What’s going on with Moon Studios? 0:48:13 - Dragon Age Dreadwolf on track for 2024 0:52:18 - Warner Bros focus on live service 1:00:54 - What We’re Playing 1:33:03 - The State of Fallout 1:41:29 - Toys For Bob goes indie 1:58:20 - Xbox Partner Preview 2:41:05 - Coming soon to Game Pass 2:47:55 - Game Pass Pick of the Week 2:54:02 - How do we prioritize what we play? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The fallout of Xbox's industry shifting decisions has resulted in many-a-questions. What other Xbox games go multi-platform? What's the long term vision? Is the desire for a wider pool of consumers only going to delay obvious development based decisions that need to be made? Much of our audience here shares in these inquiries and we spend much of this Defining Duke sifting through them all. We also dig into the layoffs that continue to ravage our industry as both PlayStation and EA have entered the fold with impacted teams including the likes of Insomniac and Respawn. It's all that, plus around 30 minutes of Tekken 8 glazing, fight stories, health is wealth endearment, our first Game Pass DODGE Of The Week, and so much more! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Introduction 0:21:25 - All Digital Series X incoming 0:23:34 - Age of Mythology Retold coming to Game Pass 0:25:10 - High On Life physical from LRG 0:28:30 - Tanya Watson joins Xbox Game Studios 0:31:45 - Third Kind Games is co developing Fable 0:37:12 - Pentiment runs better on PS5 due to a bug 0:42:51 - TMNT Arcade is coming to consoles 0:46:10 - Data-miners have found Persona 3 Reload DLC 0:47:41 - Skull and Bones has record player engagement 0:49:04 - Suicide Squad has fallen short 0:51:59 - What We’re Playing 1:32:10 - Warm Up Questions 2:11:18 - PlayStation Layoffs 2:36:29 - Game Pass Pick of the Week 2:45:05 - Ending Questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following weeks of rumors and speculation which led to multiple emergency Defining Dukes and even a business update event for Xbox, we finally have all the answers we desired. The games leaving Xbox are Hi Fi Rush, Pentiment, Sea Of Theives, and Grounded, two of which were unveiled at a Nintendo Direct, and their arrivals are imminent. Separately, PlayStation has made several illuminating comments themselves such as discussing a more aggressive PC strategy and potentially digging into other platforms. While there's no doubt that Xbox will be the first to commit in a major way to multi-platform, the Dukes are left wondering how long the walled gardens will remain as these business demand more. With that in mind, we discuss how much is enough for these companies and the ominous truth being the "when everyone plays, we all win" strategy that could play out in the next 10-20 years. Plus, a deep dive on Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth, inquiries answered on Xbox's sidestepping of physical games, a rumored Mandalorian game, and so much more in a very normal episode of Defining Duke. Get 10% off your entire order at https://www.thefreezepipe.com and use code DUKE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a week that felt like an eternity, we have arrived on the fateful day where Xbox discusses the future of their business. What's happening with exclusivity, Game Pass, hardware, and the brand's commitment to the future? To many, it was a nothing burger. Others have left with more questions than answers. Many are pleased that their investment is safe and there are no concerns moving forward. The Dukes discuss Xbox's potential clairvoyance with the multi-platform strategy, lessons learned from Xbox One applied today, and much more in another DEFCON 1 level episode of Defining Duke. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After weeks of unaddressed rumors surrounding Hi Fi Rush and Sea of Thieves coming to PlayStation, the powderkeg blew for Xbox this week. Gears Of War, Halo, Starfield, Indiana Jones, and a growing list are all reported to be going multi-platform. The only official comment we have on the matter is no sort of denial, but rather a "see you next week." In a DEFCON 1 level episode of Defining Duke, we opted to hold summit featuring each side of the aisle. Joining the Dukes are the Sacred Symbols boys. Is Xbox bowing out of the hardware space? If so, what does this mean for the competition in the gaming space with PlayStation remaining unchallenged? While it's all but confirmed that Xbox games are headed to PlayStation, the question remains in what capacity? For years, Xbox fans generally understood the idea that these would arrive thanks to Game Pass. Now, it seems Microsoft is doing this for sustainability. Naturally, fans of the platform feel betrayed leading to a plethora of meltdowns online. What happens to their digital libraries if an exit is made? Is Xbox throwing the towel too early when the vision is just about to come to fruition? The questions continue to mount as we had over 300 write-ins to sift through, so let's discuss the very future of Xbox and what the rationale behind their next phase may be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The moment we’ve long anticipated since Xbox began gobbling up various publishers has arrived and indicated a change in direction for the brand. On January 25th, a day after Microsoft was named the second $3 trillion company, Microsoft laid off 1,900 employees (accounting for 8% of their gaming division) across Activision, Blizzard, Xbox, and Bethesda. This pushes the industry as a whole beyond the 5,000 mark for total layoffs in 2024. For comparison, 2023 saw a total of 10,500 layoffs in its entire year and we’re halfway there already by January. Embracer continues to offload staff as their company falls through the floor, Riot just laid off 11% of its staff, SEGA 10% of its own, Unity another 1,800 people, and Twitch another 500. That’s just accounting for the mass contributors as over a dozen other companies have laid off hundreds of their own. From Toys For Bob all the way to the Call Of Duty workshop, many teams within Activision were impacted in a substantial way. With a new president atop Blizzard who once served as Call Of Duty's GM, Satya Nadella's blatant call for publishing games beyond Xbox, and a physical game division laid off within Xbox, the reality is clear that Xbox is no longer being gentle about the digital future they intend to charge toward. It was Phil Spencer who saved Xbox in its death throes during the Xbox One generation. Should we fear what Xbox will become? Start the Good Habit at https://www.tryfum.com/XBOX to save 10% off the Journey Pack today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following the Xbox Developer_Direct, we have much to unpack. In the world of Avowed, we received an extended showing that gave us more gameplay, but some viewers were still left with that same sense of uncertainty. With the game confirmed to be AA style, in an alpha state, and aiming for a Fall 2024 release, the Duke boys get into the expectations surrounding this title and what is missing. Meanwhile, Hellblade 2 was at the center of its own sort of conversation. While it did have an incredible showing, details presented after may have warped the perspective a touch. Hellblade 2 will sit at $50, be digital only, and is stated to be a similar length to the first game. Considering the amount of trailers shown off and how it was revealed alongside the Series X, many were expecting a more grand expansion compared to the original Hellblade. With these two side-by-side, it paints a clearer picture of what expectations should be set for the 2018/2019 draft class of Xbox. However, Xbox has secured both exclusively and in its own service, the biggest game of 2024. Palworld has stormed onto the scene breaking all sorts of records on Steam and there's little doubt that by the time you hear this episode, it will have gone on to set more milestones for itself. While there is controversy surrounding the artistic direction of the game, the Dukes can't help but enjoy it. Is that wrong? More importantly, what is the impact that one of the biggest games ever is going to have on the industry, and Xbox in particular? It's a packed week, so let's unpack, shall we? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As tradition dictates, Xbox has opened the year with their Developer_Direct. We saw gameplay from Avowed, Hellblade 2, Ara History Untold, Indiana Jones and The Great Circle, and even had a surprise appearance from Square Enix! With the roadmap set for the year, how do the Dukes feel about Xbox's showing? Is this enough to satiate them? Did Avowed improve from its initial showing? Will Hellblade 2 deliver a masterful experience worthy of the wait? Are the lacking of release dates concerning? We get into all of it and, naturally, so much more! We also dive into the budding conversation of Xbox games leaving the platform as Satya Nadella has seemingly indicated that with Activision in the fold, Xbox will be bringing games to beyond their platforms. If that really is the case, what does this symbolize for the future of the brand? As always, the economics of this situation is sure to bring out the best in all of us. Plus, a S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 release date, more additions to PC Game Pass, Starfield's "biggest" update yet, Smite 2 (!) announced, and so much! Start the Good Habit at https://www.tryfum.com/XBOX to save 10% off the Journey Pack today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Dukes have said it before and they'll say it again: It's never a straightforward job covering Xbox. Just when you think you have them figured out, they flip the script. There's no better example of that then this week where social media had Xbox on the brink with one rumor only to be celebrating them the next day thanks to an announcement. According to multiple insiders, Xbox is looking to take prolific exclusives like Hi Fi Rush and Sea Of Thieves and port them to competitors like PlayStation and Nintendo in 2024. While the benefits on a business front immediately stand out for Xbox as they cash in again on an old release, many loyal fans are wondering where they benefit, if at all. As Xbox gears up for a monstrous 2024, it seems even more questions arise about each and every announced game. It truly is Pandora's Box and The Dukes wonder if Xbox is ready for that world given their history of communication woes. Otherwise, we have a newly announced Developer_Direct boasting an absolutely stacked lineup of titles from Indiana Jones and Avowed to Hellblade 2 and Ara History Untold. With the looming potential of a shadowdrop, the ball is in Xbox's court to set an exciting tone for the upcoming slate. Download the DraftKings Sportsbook app now wide code DEFININGDUKE and get 200 bonus bets instantly after betting $5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The news waits for no one, including the Dukes! Insomniac was hacked, Bobby Kotick left Activision, and a new rumor surrounding Xbox's next console generation all managed to slip out in the two weeks we were gone. Naturally, we tackle all of this, but the Dukes really wanted to lean into the proposed 2026 gameplan for Xbox. Striking ahead of PlayStation, this would leave them in a similar position to the Xbox 360 vs PS3. Does Xbox need to hit the reset button so soon after finally getting their legs going in 2023? Would an Xbox fanbase buy into such a product so soon after the Series X launch cycle? Is Xbox's messaging airtight enough to avoid a Wii U scenario? There are many ways this can go and Xbox in 2024 is surrounded with a lot of firepower between their own first party, Activision, and Bethesda where they could make some noise as soon as they'd like. We also get into the 2024 roadmap for Starfield, the rumors of Banjo returning, some updates on Blade, and plenty more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To say it has been an eventful 2023 for Xbox would be an understatement. From establishing the Developer_Direct, a steady output of first party games, and acquiring Activision, to massive FTC court cases leaks, Redfall's release state, and lingering questions on Blade's exclusivity, we've had plenty to discuss. The Dukes gather this time not only to go through 2023 pound-for-pound, but also see what important lessons that can be gleamed from all these events. Was 2023 Xbox's best of the generation or are they only getting started? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's the holiday season and perhaps Santa got you a brand new Xbox! Either that, or you always are subscribed to Game Pass and are looking at where to spend your precious free time. Well, as tradition dictates, the Dukes have gathered to analyze what has been an impressive year for Game Pass. As Xbox moves away from quantity and into quality, what were the best and worst that Game Pass had to offer in 2023? We hope to answer that very question. Head to https://www.squarespace.com/duke to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code DUKE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Dukes have gathered one final time in 2023 during the aftermath of The Game Awards. Following a successful showing by Xbox, many question marks linger around Blade. Well, we have a direct answer from Disney, and that result lies with Bethesda. So, what gives? Plus, we get into the possibility of a free Game Pass tier fueled by ads as Xbox seeks to create value even at the lowest level of entry to help expand their subscription service. Is this a wise move or something that will inevitably hurt the paying customers? Plus, massive updates on SEGA, a deep dive into Starfield’s promised updates for 2024, the insane situation surrounding The Day Before, and so much more. Let’s wrap up 2023 with a bang! Start hiring now with a $75 job credit at https://indeed.com/duke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It was a much different story for Xbox coming out of The Game Awards this year compared to the last. In 2022, Xbox had yet again skipped the show with any meaningful announcements and even had their acquisition of Activision blocked by the FTC. This time around, there weren't any regulators to stop their fun! They showed up with Hellblade II gameplay alongside announcements of Arkane's Blade and even Hideo Kojima's frequently leaked "OD." Yet, as per usual, not all answers are certain. Is Blade exclusive to Xbox? How far off is OD? Why is Hellblade II being shown off for a fourth time without a release date? Is a Developer Direct on the horizon to rectify this? Naturally, the Dukes dive deep into these subjects, but also comb through the rest of the show while we're at it. The Game Awards wasn't the only massive news as Project Shaolin, the Wu Tang Clan game being developed through Xbox Game Studios, had a ton of details leak. We also have our first look at the Fallout TV show trailer, and even Grand Theft Auto VI. It's a jam packed episode and one of our longer shows of the year, so get comfortable and enjoy! Head to https://www.squarespace.com/duke to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code DUKE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we approach The Game Awards, it looks like we won't be ranting on how Xbox missed the show again. Indeed, they have already confirmed that there will be important announcements at the show! With a very "Matty" angle on this news, the Dukes combine to speculate what Xbox could be bringing to the big stage. What's really made headlines is Bethesda's customer support who has taken it upon themselves to respond to the Starfield reviews being submitted on Steam. Is this a sign of insecurity? Is it normal for game companies to do this? We dig into what is a peculiar move by Bethesda this deep into the release. Plus, extended comments from Xbox on their future with AI, news on the next Call Of Duty, a fantastic update for Halo, and much more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What was once a defining Xbox exclusive has made its way to PlayStation. Now, reports are in that the Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic Remake is in a world (or galaxy!) of trouble with development at a complete standstill and PlayStation wanting out. Many fans, us included, are calling on Xbox to, if legality permits it, be the saviors of this troubled project. From legacy to the habit of fixing up the likes of Bethesda and Activision, we're led to believe that this may be a great fit. Does Xbox have it in them and is this a remake even worth saving? Plus, we dive into the success that Yakuza has found on Xbox and how ATLUS plans to replicate the same gameplan for the upcoming Persona 6. With Persona 6 coming to Xbox, has the brand finally solidified itself as a major JRPG platform? We also tackle the omission of Hogwarts Legacy, Baldur's Gate 3's physical copies, ID @ Xbox's massive success, Call Of Duty's current reception, Xbox's declining European sales, and much more! Head to https://www.squarespace.com/duke to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code DUKE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For the fourteenth year in a row, Xbox is not going to be part of the Game Of The Year conversation. From fanboys to game developers, it feels like the industry has hit a boiling point when it comes to the way particular nominees are handled. Is it time for separate committees to be established for each category? Is it time to see The Game Awards for the marketing show is really is? Does any of this matter at all? We received a staggering amount of write-ins on the subject from all walks of life in the gaming world, so the Dukes are happy to oblige and get into the thick of things on this touchy subject. Meanwhile, this hasn't been a year to celebrate Call Of Duty as Modern Warfare 3 officially sits as one of the lowest reviewed releases in franchise history. With a fresh report on the tumultuous development cycle, the Dukes discuss how Xbox can approach this in the future to avoid such a blunder. They much tread carefully for they are tampering with one of the main money makers that led them to ABK in the first place. With much eagerness, we dive into this alongside Baldur's Gate 3 arriving to Xbox in December, Matt Booty's latest statement on Hellblade 2, the Steam Deck OLED, Dragon's Dogma 2 arriving soon possibly, and plenty more! Start hiring now with a $75 job credit at https://indeed.com/duke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It was a bit chilly this weekend as a Blizzard seems to have blown through Xbox. That works, right? Anyway, during Blizzcon, we received a close up look at what's to come for the likes of Diablo, World Of Warcraft, and much more. More importantly is Phil Spencer's stage presence and the subsequent interview done with Blizzard President Mike Ybarra that has grown the expectations of "old Blizzard" making a return. Blizzard Entertainment has long been under the thumb of Activision with much of their decisions funneling through them. Now, Mike and his teams gets to report in to his old pal whom he worked with for almost two decades with at Xbox, Phil Spencer. Otherwise, Xbox has begun to further explore AI game development tools which specifically target the creative aspect of game development. With their substantial lead in cloud tech due to Azure, it's worth asking if this is cause for concern. Plus more on Grand Theft Auto's next entry in the series, Free Radical possibly being shuttered, Xbox's commitment to releasing a big game every 3 months, and so much more! Head to https://www.squarespace.com/duke to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code DUKE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a couple of years as family members, Xbox has brought Bethesda a bit closer with its latest restructuring. Matt Booty, head of Xbox Game Studios, will now oversee all content across the Xbox and Bethesda families. Furthermore, Sarah Bond has now been elevated to President at Xbox. With these changes, many are wondering what the impact across content and partnerships will be. Is Fallout New Vegas 2 more possible than ever? What of a collaboration between ID and 343 on Halo? Under Matt Booty's guidance, there is quite a lot of dream projects that can be greenlit. Otherwise, it's a hot and cold week for gaming. With exciting news on the Xbox front, we shift our gaze to Bungie who is under a much worse restructuring of their own. After missing their revenue projections by 45%, over 100 employees have been laid off which includes big names at the team. Our very own Destiny expert has much to lament on the latest move from Bungie. Plus more on banned third party accessories at Xbox, The Outer Worlds selling 5 million units, a Series S price hike in Brazil, and much more in the world of Xbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In an unexpected move from Xbox, they've put together yet another showcase format. This time, it arrives in the form of "Xbox Partner Preview" which the Dukes agreed felt more like a business transaction than a show with big announcements. Expectations were tempered, yet Xbox didn't even bring Game Pass announcements to the show. Even if games like Yakuza, Alan Wake 2, and MGS 3 Remake look quality, the show left us asking why it even existed. So, we gather to answer those very questions. Meanwhile, the Xbox band is on tour and visiting all of the newly acquired teams in the ABK merger. With quarterly earnings and expectations in the mix, it appears that Xbox anticipates their newest family member to have an immediate and massive impact. Plus more on Starfield's impact to Game Pass, Xbox's continued decline in console sales, Fallout TV show expectations, Spider-Man 2 impressions, and so much more! Head to https://www.squarespace.com/duke to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code DUKE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After almost two years of going back and forth on every layer of this deal, it is finally complete. Xbox owns Activision Blizzard King and have massively expanded both the IP as well as talent under their possession. Now, the real work begins! As Phil Spencer says he's going to begin visiting all these teams, gamers have many burning questions! What is the future of exclusivity for the many upcoming Activision games? Will Xbox dig into the massive backlog of titles at their disposal? How will the integration of Activision games in Game Pass work? With a sense of finality, we can begin to answer those questions. That wasn't the only massive news this week as Bethesda's Pete Hines is leaving Bethesda after spending 24 years there. With Will Shen out too, many are wondering if it's time to worry about folks jumping ship. The Dukes are here to settle things down. Otherwise, we dig into Halo Infinite's resurgence, Starfield being one of the best selling games of the year, and much more! Start hiring now with a $75 sponsored job credit at https://www.indeed.com/duke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While modern gaming has its drawbacks, our always online nature allows any game to not be out of the fight so long as it maintains direction, funding, and manpower. That comeback story is something that continued to rear its head in this episode. From Halo Infinite's fifth season, to Redfall finally dropping much needed features at launch, and even Guitar Hero being teased for a return, much in the vicinity of Xbox is looking to make a grand return. Even beyond its green gates, Cyberpunk stands at the apex alongside No Man's Sky as the ultimate comeback story. Naturally, that brings us to this episode's main question: is it time to make a return? Is Redfall worth it? What about Halo Infinite? We answer those burning questions alongside sifting through the plethora of updates that have hit the Activision Blizzard deal as it finally looks to reach its grand finale. Head to https://www.squarespace.com/DUKE to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code DUKE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a lighter news week, there is a consistent theme that crops up across all of Xbox's games recently. From Redfall to Starfield and Forza, each of these games will be supported for an extremely long time. As the Dukes experience real-time clarity on Xbox's vision, we dive deep into the idea of Game Pass as a model changing how these games are made. With Todd Howard confirming a minimum of five years of Starfield support, it's worth examining the library of upcoming titles and how Xbox may approach the release of those. Is it wise for them to have "one and dones" similar to Hi Fi Rush or does their model demand more from a game than what it offers on day one? Beyond that, we sift through another quality stack of Game Pass additions, the review reception of Forza Motorsports, our impressions on new releases like Assassin's Creed Mirage, Lamplighters League, and more, alongside ominous updates for the KOTOR Remake. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we quickly approach the CMA's deadline for a decision on Xbox's acquisition of Activision Blizzard, we see another significant stride in the deal. The CMA has conditionally approved the acquisition if particular circumstances can be met on the cloud front. Meanwhile, the console wars trek on and Starfield is in the line of fire as it's now been officially rated as Bethesda's worst "official" release ever. There are caveats and we get into it, but also sift through the legitimate criticisms that have chewed up Starfield just as much. Plus, a decent showing for Xbox at the Tokyo Game Show, Jim Ryan is leaving PlayStation, and the Dukes big bet on Dishonored 3! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Slow week, huh? As the gaming industry grows, so too do its leaks. Much like Hollywood, it's becoming increasingly difficult to keep projects under wraps before someone spills the beans. Joining the ranks with Nvidia's GeForce Now, Xbox has suffered one of gaming's largest leaks ever. From an entire release schedule for Bethesda's upcoming games to a mid generation refresh and even their vision for 2028's next generation consoles, there are dozens of documents to sift through. Fallout 3 Remaster, Dishonored 3, Oblivion Remaster, Ghostwire Tokyo getting a sequel, a licensed IP game, and so much more is on the way! Unfortunately for Xbox, it also revealed the sort of conversations that happen behind closed doors. As recently as 2020, Xbox wants to purchase Nintendo and continues to size up PlayStation. Their goals are perhaps far more ambitious (and terrifying) than anyone could have expected. So, let's unpack it all. Much like the GeForce Now leak, this one will likely serve as a Bible of sorts to check back on when needing guidance to the next leak. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For years, the Dukes were met with abuse and slander due to their faith in Starfield on how it can serve as a turning point in the current generation. The reviews have come and gone, the talk on the streets has become a bit messy to put it lightly, but the numbers don't lie. Starfield is a raging success across all metrics as it is now Bethesda Game Studios' biggest launch of all time as it managed to beat out the likes of Skyrim and Fallout 4. To do so in an exclusive capacity puts things into perspective even more. With six million players already accounted for and likely millions more beyond that this point, Bethesda has committed to "years and years" of support thus paving the way for Starfield to become the most played Bethesda game ever as Phil Spencer desired. We also get into the mind boggling decisions Unity is making in regards to its popular game engine, Square Enix's recent plummet, the upcoming reveal of Indiana Jones, the Fallout TV show's leaked teaser trailer, and a plethora of more news in a jam packed week. Start hiring now with a $75 job credit at https://www.indeed.com/duke Download DraftKings Sportsbook and use code DEFININGDUKE to sign up and get $200 in bonus bets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fellow Dukes, your wait is finally at an end! Starfield is here and the Dukes are teaming up with Gene Park to break every facet of the game down. Walking away from this conversation, one thing is for sure. Starfield is arguably the biggest game we have seen in years. Despite varying hours logged from 30 all the way to 70, the Dukes have a variety of stories to tell. So much so that we learned a ton from the "water cooler moments" the game has provided already! The polish is there and allows for the game's incredible writing to truly shine. However, the game is not without its issues. Starfield's uneven exploration may leave Bethesda Game Studios purists at a loss for some time and there is much to be said about its RPG elements despite choice being at the forefront. That's only just scratching the surface of what this game brings. It's time for The Dukes to settle into a conversation about Xbox's biggest game of the generation. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/duke and get on you way to being your best self Download DraftKings Sportsbook and use code DEFININGDUKE to sign up and get $200 in bonus bets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fellow Dukes, your wait is finally at an end! Starfield is here and the Dukes are teaming up with Gene Park to break every facet of the game down. Walking away from this conversation, one thing is for sure. Starfield is arguably the biggest game we have seen in years. Despite varying hours logged from 30 all the way to 70, the Dukes have a variety of stories to tell. So much so that we learned a ton from the "water cooler moments" the game has provided already! The polish is there and allows for the game's incredible writing to truly shine. However, the game is not without its issues. Starfield's uneven exploration may leave Bethesda Game Studios purists at a loss for some time and there is much to be said about its RPG elements despite choice being at the forefront. That's only just scratching the surface of what this game brings. It's time for The Dukes to settle into a conversation about Xbox's biggest game of the generation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Dukes have Starfield and will have to navigate that landmine for an entire episode! One thing we can discuss is our plans for the game, the content, and so on as it’s been a long time coming. While Cog sits out to rest, Gene Park joins the show to talk all things Xbox. For starters, we dive into the thick of Opening Night Live. From stage crashes, to new Starfield content, and a plethora of new trailers, we have much to talk about! There’s also a surprise turn in the ABK deal where now Ubisoft is involved. What does this mean for Xbox’s cloud initiative moving forward? Plus more on Persona 3 Reload’s date, Phil Spencer’s commitment to four AAA games per year, and what the plans are for Game Pass when Activision joins the Xbox family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's time to start believing, folks. Starfield has gone gold following multiple delays and it looks like you can finally put that September 1st (or 6th!) release date "in ink!" Alongside going gold, the information is finally starting to pour in for the game. We have a deep timeline of 300 years worth of lore to mull over. For those less grimoire inclined, we have a brand new Q&A from Will Shen and Emil Pagliarulo that is chockful of new bits of information of the next Bethesda epic. In a week tailormade for the Dukes, we learned of the team who has been working on the TMNT: Last Ronin video game. It hails from Black Forest Games who has a spotty history. If that didn't leave us uncertain enough, THQ Nordic is the publisher. Will the hype win the day for the Dukes or are we full blown skeptics out the gate? Plus, a renewed debate on the Xbox Series S sparks up following some key features for Forza Motorsport being delayed, Assassin's Creed Mirage. Start hiring now with a $75 job credit at https://www.indeed.com/duke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Baldur's Gate has, well, stormed the gates of PCs around the globe and has managed to amass a staggering 800K+ concurrent players. Such a feat is difficult to accomplish, especially for a hardcore turn-based RPG despite how much many love them. To say Larian Studios deserves such attention and celebration would be an understatement. However, as an Xbox podcast, the eyes of many of our listeners and writers has shifted to Bethesda Game Studios Starfield where some may worry of history repeating itself. Ahead of Fallout 4's release, another transformative RPG released and that game was The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Much of the conversation turned into Bethesda being upstaged and there is a small yet growing fear that Bethesda may be upstaged again. Are these games truly comparable? Well, the Dukes are happy to answer that very question. Plus, we dive into more of your Starfield questions such as what Xbox needs for this game to be considered a success and how to cope with a potential failure come September 1st. We also sift through Square Enix's shift in focus, Xbox's changes to the $1 offer in Game Pass, and spread some much needed words on the Health Is Wealth movement! This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/duke and get on your way to being your best self Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2023 has been a bit of an adventure through an Oblivion gate for Xbox, hasn't it? Funny enough, they also may be remaking the widely celebrated 2006 RPG that started as an Xbox 360 exclusive. Following a now deleted Reddit post from a verified ex-employee of Virtuos Studios, by the end of next year we may have an Oblivion remake in our hands. There are many worthwhile questions to ask such as why now, why Virtuos, what changed in Bethesda's stance on re-releasing a game, and is this merely a one-off? The Dukes are up to their ears in Starfield hype, so it's tantalizing to know that another BGS experience may not be much further off. However, could Xbox have pushed this and struck a deal with the Devil as Virtuos' last outing wasn't one to write home about. If that's not enough, Square Enix and Xbox have renewed their vows! With Final Fantasy 14 headed to the platform, many Xbox fans are left wondering what's next beyond the popular MMORPG? Can Final Fantasy VII Remake finally come to Xbox along with the staggering amount of games that the platform has missed out on? Plus, even Cog's very favorite Transformers games have found themselves in the headlines as a comeback may be on the way with Hasbro and Activision Blizzard exchanging words through headlines! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

August is coming and with that is an anticipated onslaught of Starfield marketing. Trailers, reveals, and details aplenty leaves us all wondering: Just how far will Bethesda go? Well, with three new animated trailers in our system and some analysis of the Fallout 4 marketing cycle, we may have a good idea of that! We also delve into the recent majority shareholder purchase by Tencent of Techland. How does this change the gaming landscape and is the industry giving Tencent's aggression the same vilification as the likes of Microsoft and Sony? "Lord Acquisition" has some thoughts you're going to want to hear on the matter. Plus, who's behind the recent wave of backwards compatible multiplayer improvements in the likes of Call Of Duty and Gears Of War? We get into all of this as well as Ubisoft's insistence on returning to tighter games, Activision's massive success on PC, a pizza scented TMNT controller, some wild food takes, and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After much delay and public arguing, Xbox and PlayStation have finally signed a binding agreement to continue bringing Call Of Duty to PlayStation following the completion of the Activision Blizzard deal. However, PlayStation's delay has bit them in the backside as the Dukes had predicted. Indeed, this deal only pertains to Call Of Duty meaning that all bets are off for the vault of other Activision Blizzard content. Tony Hawk, Spyro, Crash Bandicoot, and many more can easily become exclusives. Will they? The Dukes dive deep into this wormhole of a topic. This week also finally saw the end of an era in Xbox Live Gold as come September 14th, Xbox will transition current subscribers over to a new tier in the Game Pass offering called "Game Pass Core." With 25 games to boot and guaranteed online multiplayer, what could go wrong? Well, there is a caveat which we'll explore in a bit of a potential hustle play by Xbox. Start hiring now with a $75 job credit at https://www.indeed.com/duke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Well, it’s finally happened. Since January of 2022 it has been an absolute bloodbath, but now we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to the Activision Blizzard deal. With the FTC vying for a preliminary injunction that would effectively lead to the death of this deal, the two opposing forces did battle in court. Following Microsoft's victory, the FTC has moved to appeal the decision as this saga continues. As the July 18th deadline quickly approaches, it's very possibly that by the next Defining Duke episode that we'll finally turn the page on this long winded chapter in Xbox history. Naturally, we had to tap an expert on the shoulder for all this and who better to ask all our crazy questions than Hoeg Law? Joining us, we go through the FTC's appeal process, the ongoing negotiations with the CMA, potential console exclusivity, Game Pass content, and so much more. It's Hoeg's first time back in the realm of the Dukes since December so be sure to give him a warm welcome! Furthermore, we get into the Xbox x IGN indie showcase which displayed a strong amount of diversity as Xbox seems to do of late. We also dig into Starfield's absolutely bonkers PC specs and get to the bottom of some uncertainties surrounding the game. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/duke and get on your way to being your best self Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's the calm before the storm as we await the court's decision on whether or not the FTC's injunction will be granted thus killing the Activision deal. With that on the horizon, we look at Gamescom where Xbox is currently not tempering expectations about their presence on the show floor. Naturally, the Dukes dive deep into the litany of titles that could appear. Considering the show's more European centric audience, its it time for neighboring UK studios like Ninja Theory and PlayGround Games to come out of hiding once more? Is it time for Hellblade II's combat to finally be shown off? What of other dated games coming to Xbox that may crawl its way into a show of some kind? The options are plentiful and leave us with much to consider. Once again, SEGA and Xbox's relationship continues to grow thus adding more credibility to Game Pass. Football Manager, one of SEGA's most lucrative games, continues to shine in the service as the Japanese publisher had much praise for Xbox to go around. Plus, are the Dukes alongside other Xbox creators bought and paid for? Is such interaction with big executives a major contamination to the integrity of ours and others' products? This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/duke and get on your way to being your best self Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you thought the Activision deal was inescapable already, Xbox's battle in court against the FTC just turned the notch up to eleven. In a plethora of poorly redacted documents and fully exposed e-mails, all of Xbox's plans that were supposed to be private are made clear. From their mile long acquisition watchlist to details on key upcoming exclusives, this is the peek behind the curtains many gaming enthusiasts have been seeking. Coupled in with PlayStation's true feelings on the deal and you have one of the most riveting news weeks in Xbox history. While much of this is exciting, there is more sour news about Perfect Dark. In a new scathing report - this time from IGN, we learn the truth about this "AAAA" game, alongside its unlikely first partner and troubled development history. We also dive deep in to Todd Howard's latest interview on Starfield! Plus more on E3, Starfield's physical copy, a new Metal Gear game making its way to Xbox finally, and plenty more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices