DF Direct Weekly #156: Xbox's Radical Future, Series X All-Digital, Xbox Handheld
Apr 1, 2024
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This podcast delves into the potential changes in the Xbox platform, including integrating third-party stores, the prospect of an Xbox handheld, and the leaked photos of a white digital-only Series X. They also discuss game preservation, developers considering dropping Xbox support, CPU upgrades on consoles, and the use of Microsoft's cloud technology in future consoles.
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Quick takeaways
Xbox platform may undergo significant changes based on Phil Spencer's interviews.
Speculation on the form and features of a potential Xbox handheld device.
Team baffled by leaked images of a white Xbox Series X 'All Digital' console.
Progressive performance improvements and gameplay enhancements observed in Outcast: A New Beginning.
Deep dives
Original Outcast Game Legacy and Sequel Quest
The original Outcast game from 1999 was praised for pushing PC graphics and tech boundaries. Despite a canceled sequel attempt for the PlayStation 2 due to funding issues, the same team persevered over two decades to release a long-awaited sequel, Outcast: A New Beginning, which adds new mechanics like a jetpack and vertical world design.
Bugs and Patches on PC Version
The PC version of Outcast: A New Beginning faced bugs initially but saw significant performance improvements post-patch, providing a smoother gameplay experience. With frame rates jumping from 30 to over 100 FPS, the enhancements delivered a more stable and enjoyable gameplay session.
Console Performance Troubles on PS5
The console versions of Outcast: A New Beginning encountered performance problems on PlayStation 5, specifically with the performance mode exhibiting significant tearing issues. Despite efforts to measure frame rates accurately, the tearing complications made assessing performance challenging, leading to subpar experiences in the performance mode.
Diverse Gameplay and Narrative Depth
Outcast: A New Beginning offers engaging gameplay elements with its focus on verticality and risk elements, reminiscent of 2000s 3D platformers. The journey to the desert city atop the spire provided a sense of accomplishment and challenge. The game's history, coupled with the gameplay innovations, delivers a unique and intriguing gaming experience that merges nostalgic elements with modern gaming trends.
Concerns Over PlayStation 5 Pro Hardware Features
There are concerns over Sony's decision to focus on a significant GPU upgrade rather than a major CPU upgrade for the PlayStation 5 Pro. Some worry that the current CPU performance might hinder the console's ability to run future titles at 60 FPS. The emphasis on machine learning upscaling could assist in increasing resolutions, but questions linger about the impact on game development costs and the ability to maintain current software production levels.
Utilizing Cloud Compute in Xbox Console
Microsoft's utilization of cloud compute in their upcoming console is seen as a potential game-changer. By combining local and cloud computing, game developers may leverage this technology for certain workloads, particularly those involving AI, dialogue generation, and voice synthesis. While concerns exist about a potential monopoly, the concept of cohesive cloud computing could offer new possibilities in game development and performance.
Nintendo Switch 2 and Game Development Concerns
With the anticipation of the Nintendo Switch 2, there are worries about a potential decrease in game releases and innovation due to rising game development costs. The shift to a new console generation may impact Nintendo's output, leading to concerns about the market's competitiveness. Balancing the desire for the best products with maintaining a healthy console market poses moral dilemmas for consumers seeking variety and quality games.
Competition in GPU Market: Nvidia's Dominance
The dominance of Nvidia in the GPU market has raised concerns about monopolistic tendencies and the challenges for competitors to catch up. The feature set offered by Nvidia GPUs is compelling, but the level of Nvidia's lead in the market has posed challenges for other companies. Issues of monopolies, market competition, and the quest for the best product versus a diverse market landscape create complex considerations for consumers and industry players alike.
This week's show is dominated by Xbox news in the wake of a new interview with Phil Spencer strongly indicating a big change in direction for the Xbox platform and by extension, its hardware. There's also talk of what form an Xbox handheld may take, while leaked photography of a white Xbox Series X 'All Digital' console brings about bafflement from the team.
0:00:00 Introduction
0:00:50 News 01: Phil Spencer wants other game stores on Xbox
0:30:36 News 02: Phil Spencer’s gaming handheld wishlist
0:44:21 News 03: White digital-only Series X leaks
0:55:32 News 04: Testing Outcast performance
1:13:31 News 05: Sunsoft’s Uforia: The Saga 2 released!
1:20:26 Supporter Q1: Are Switch cartridges or Blu-ray discs better for long term preservation?
1:27:25 Supporter Q2: What do you make of claims that developers are considering dropping Xbox support?
1:33:33 Supporter Q3: Why didn’t Sony upgrade the CPU further on PS5 Pro?
1:40:43 Supporter Q4: How would Microsoft’s cloud technology be leveraged in a next-gen console?
1:47:59 Supporter Q5: Could Switch 2 receive games at a slower pace than the original Switch?
1:54:39 Supporter Q6: Is Nvidia’s market dominance a bad thing for competition?
