Avowed’s ‘Problem’ Is the Best Kind of Problem for Xbox – Unlocked 654
Aug 8, 2024
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The delay of Avowed may seem like a setback, but it could actually be a blessing for Obsidian's upcoming RPG. The hosts discuss how this shift affects Xbox’s near-term lineup and the competitive gaming landscape. They analyze the strategic timing of game releases, spotlighting past titles like Sunset Overdrive. Furthermore, the conversation touches on gaming mechanics and the challenges of console play, as well as the impact of streaming advancements on the gaming experience.
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Quick takeaways
Avowed's delay to early 2025, while disappointing, is viewed as an opportunity for Obsidian to enhance game quality and player experience.
The podcast discusses the impact of Game Informer's shutdown, highlighting the loss of a trusted source for gaming news in a digital age.
Valorant's console adaptation successfully preserves its competitive integrity, offering a tailored experience that avoids common pitfalls in cross-play scenarios.
Deep dives
The Mystery of June's Journey
June's Journey is a hidden object mystery game that immerses players in the captivating storyline of June Parker, who is determined to uncover her family's secrets while solving her sister's murder. Each chapter presents new challenges requiring players to employ their detective skills to rapidly locate hidden objects, enhancing engagement and providing an active role in the unfolding drama. The game is described as offering not just simple gameplay but rather deep investment in both the narrative and the puzzle-solving mechanics, making it anything but mindless. Additionally, players have various ways to personalize their in-game islands, enriching the gameplay experience with customizable features.
Reflections on Game Informer's Closure
The unexpected shutdown of Game Informer, a longstanding video game publication, marked a significant moment in gaming media history, ending a 33-year era. Many industry veterans and fans expressed sadness over the abrupt demise, as Game Informer was one of the last prominent gaming magazines in the U.S. The podcast emphasizes the impact this closure has on the industry, referencing the creator's personal experiences and relationships with the publication's staff. It highlights the loss of a trusted source for game news and previews in a landscape that has increasingly shifted toward digital outlets.
Valorant's Console Adaptation
Valorant has successfully transitioned to console, maintaining its competitive integrity while adapting to controller gameplay. Unlike many first-person shooters that struggle to balance cross-play between PC and consoles, Valorant has introduced a console experience that is independently designed, avoiding the pitfalls of cross-play imbalances. Feedback from players indicates that the adaptation is smooth, providing a solid gameplay experience without the over-reliance on aim assist commonly seen in similar games. The decision to keep controllers as the sole input method on consoles aims to preserve the game's competitive nature and ensure fairness.
Anticipation for Avowed's Release
Avowed, an anticipated title for Xbox, has shifted its release date to February 18, 2025, raising discussions about its impact on the gaming calendar. The delay was framed as a strategic decision to provide a more favorable environment for players amid a crowded game release window. This move has sparked speculation as to whether the developers will utilize this additional time to refine the game further and address community feedback. The podcast crew shared their excitement and concerns regarding the new timeline, noting the potential benefits of better development and reception upon release.
World of Warcraft's Possible Console Move
As Microsoft has acquired Activision Blizzard, there are growing discussions about the potential for World of Warcraft to make its way onto Xbox consoles. The podcast explores the feasibility of transitioning the popular MMO to console, weighing the advantages and challenges that would accompany such a change. The conversation emphasizes the importance of cross-play functionality, which would allow console and PC players to interact seamlessly in a unified gaming environment. The hosts agree that with the right development effort, launching World of Warcraft on Xbox could significantly expand its player base and profitability.
Our Xbox crew discusses why Avowed's delay out of the Q4 holiday season and into early 2025, and why the "problem" of it getting delayed is actually a blessing in disguise for Obsidian's eagerly anticipated first-person RPG. Plus: what Xbox's near-term lineup looks like now after the Avowed and STALKER 2 delays, one of last year's best games comes to Xbox One for those who haven't upgraded to a Series X or Series S yet, and more!
