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Xbox Developer Direct 2024 Recap: Get ready for these 5 upcoming blockbuster titles

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Written by Dave W. Shanahan

January 18, 2024

In an exhilarating showcase at today’s Developer Direct 2024 event, Xbox treated its audience to an in-depth look at five upcoming games set to launch across Xbox Series X|S, PC, Game Pass, and the cloud due out later this year. The event featured insights from development teams at Xbox, Bethesda, and a surprise appearance by Square Enix, offering a global perspective on gaming.

Xbox Developer Direct 2024

The Xbox Developer Direct 2024 event showcased some of the most anticipated titles in the gaming industry. The event lasted about 50 minutes and covered updates for Avowed, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, Visions of Mana, Ara: History Untold, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. Let’s take a look at the five most anticipated games at the event.

1. Avowed – Unleashing Fantasy in Fall 2024

Coming to Xbox Series X/S, PC, Cloud – Joins Game Pass on Day One

developer direct avowed

Avowed, Obsidian’s upcoming fantasy action RPG, took center stage with Game Director Carrie Patel providing a deep dive into its dynamic combat, narrative reactivity, and vibrant world set in the Living Lands. The game promises meaningful player choices in both narrative and combat, offering a diverse array of weaponry and flexible loadouts. Art Director Matt Hansen revealed the mysterious and visually diverse regions of the Living Lands, making Avowed a game to watch out for this fall.

2. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II – Unveiling May 21

Launching on Xbox Series X/S, PC, Cloud – Joins Game Pass on Day One

developer direct, senua

Ninja Theory shared behind-the-scenes glimpses of Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II, set to release on May 21. The game takes players to Iceland, offering a harsh and brutal landscape, coupled with Senua’s unique perspective influenced by psychosis. With visceral battles, a compelling story, and innovative audio experiences, Hellblade II aims to be a groundbreaking title in both art and technology.

3. Visions of Mana – Embracing Summer 2024

Coming to Xbox Series X|S, PC

developer direct visions of mana

Square Enix surprised the audience with Visions of Mana, the first mainline entry in the Mana series in over 15 years. Series producer Masaru Oyamada presented a sneak peek into the gorgeous RPG, highlighting gameplay, behind-the-scenes footage, and details about the adaptive music system. Launching in Summer 2024, Visions of Mana promises a captivating experience with aerial combat and the assistance of Elementals in battle.

4. Ara: History Untold – Unraveling in Fall 2024

Exclusive to PC – Joins PC Game Pass on Day One

developer direct ara

Oxide Games showcased Ara: History Untold, an innovative historical grand strategy game. Viewers got a glimpse of the game’s crafting system, simultaneous turns, and more. Scheduled for a fall release on PC, Ara: History Untold aims to redefine the grand strategy genre.

5. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle – Unearthed in 2024

Launching on Xbox Series X/S, PC – Joins Game Pass on Day One

MachineGames, in collaboration with Lucasfilm Games and Bethesda Game Studios, revealed Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. With over 13 minutes of gameplay footage and developer insights, this new adventure promises to be an exciting journey for fans of the legendary archaeologist.

Beyond the Headliners

The Developer Direct 2024 event also featured updates from Blizzard and ZeniMax Online Studios on Diablo IV and The Elder Scrolls Online. These additions further contribute to the diverse gaming experiences coming to Xbox in 2024. While today’s Developer Direct showcase provided a taste of what’s to come, Xbox promises more exciting announcements later this month. With a lineup of games from their own studios and incredible partners, Xbox aims to cater to every type of player across consoles, PC, Cloud, and Game Pass in 2024.


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I'm Dave W. Shanahan, a Microsoft enthusiast with a passion for Windows 11, Xbox, Microsoft 365 Copilot, Azure, and more. After OnMSFT.com closed, I started MSFTNewsNow.com to keep the world updated on Microsoft news. Based in Massachusetts, you can find me on Twitter @Dav3Shanahan or email me at davewshanahan@gmail.com.