Microsoft launched its annual Xbox Games Showcase on Sunday, debuting a new all-digital version of the Xbox Series X and S consoles alongside trailers for over a dozen games, including the highly anticipated next installment of “Call of Duty.”
The showcase arrives at a pivotal moment for Xbox and Microsoft, amid challenges in the gaming industry marked by softer sales, layoffs, and studio closures.
During the event, Microsoft unveiled three gaming consoles, including a disc-less version of the Xbox Series X and S consoles, along with a special edition Series X boasting 2 terabytes of storage. This hardware refresh aims to bolster console sales, intensifying competition with Sony’s PlayStation 5.
Featured games included “Doom: The Dark Ages,” the latest entry in the iconic “Doom” franchise, and a sneak peek at the newest “Gears of War” title, marking the end of a five-year wait for one of Xbox’s flagship franchises.
Microsoft also showcased its commitment to the Xbox Game Pass subscription service, with a significant number of games, including the new “Doom” and “Call of Duty,” set to be available on the day of launch. This strategic move underscores Microsoft’s efforts to attract consumers amidst a challenging economic climate.
The showcase culminated with a special feature from Activision Blizzard’s studios, offering insights into the highly anticipated “Call of Duty: Black Ops 6,” slated for release in October. Developers Treyarch and Raven Software provided glimpses of the game’s campaign set in the early 1990s, highlighting new features such as an enhanced movement system allowing players to sprint in all directions, along with a preview of the beloved “Zombies” mode.
