Welcome to another edition of our weekly feature where we preview the new and exciting games making their debut on the Xbox platform. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed adventures or puzzle-laden narratives, there’s something for everyone coming to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, and Game Pass. This week’s lineup is packed with a variety of genres and styles, ensuring that there’s plenty to explore and enjoy. Let’s dive into the details of these upcoming releases.
Crystal Ball of Firmament
Developer: Xitilon
Release Date: April 15
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
In "Crystal Ball of Firmament," players find themselves in a magical world where a crucial spell book has mysteriously vanished. As the protagonist, a talented magician, you are tasked with the mission to locate and retrieve this essential artifact. This action platformer adventure allows you to harness the power of a mystical crystal ball to alternate between day and night, a unique mechanic that alters the environment and enemy behavior. The game spans four distinct biomes, including mountains, woods, a winter forest, and a bustling city, offering a total of 32 levels filled with challenges. As you traverse these diverse landscapes, you can collect tokens and purchase upgrades to enhance your magical abilities.
Chains of Freedom
Developer: Nordcurrent Labs
Release Date: April 15
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
"Chains of Freedom" invites players into a gripping turn-based tactics game set in a fictional dystopian Eastern European state. As a leader of an elite military squad, you’ll navigate through dangerous missions rife with deception and moral quandaries. The game’s strategy-rich mechanics require careful planning and execution, making each mission a test of your tactical prowess.
Finding Frankie
Developer: PERP GAMES
Release Date: April 15
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
"Finding Frankie" presents a thrilling parkour game show where you must compete against two other contestants. The game challenges you to run, jump, swing, and slide through various obstacle courses while evading the show’s host, Frankie, and his cohort of terrifying adversaries. This fast-paced action game will test your reflexes and agility as you strive to outperform your rivals.
Hot Rod Mayhem
Developer: Casual Brothers Ltd.
Release Date: April 15
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Xbox Play Anywhere
"Hot Rod Mayhem" puts you in the driver’s seat of high-speed, adrenaline-pumping races. Prove your skills as the ultimate racer by mastering speed and maneuvering through wild courses. The game features unique pick-ups like the Marble and Homing Dart, adding strategic depth as you attempt to outpace and outsmart your opponents.
Lab Rat
Developer: Klei Publishing
Release Date: April 15
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
In "Lab Rat," players are introduced to a narrative-driven puzzle game that cleverly masquerades as a machine-generated video game. The game stars an AI focused on metrics, who monitors your progress as you solve over 100 spatial puzzles. With a satirical tone, this game offers a humorous take on AI’s understanding of humanity, based on your performance and feedback.
Lushfoil Photography Sim
Developer: Annapurna Interactive
Release Date: April 15
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
"Lushfoil Photography Sim" offers a serene experience as you explore beautifully recreated environments from around the world. Armed with an in-game camera, you embark on a journey to capture stunning landscapes and vistas. The game rewards those with a keen eye for photography, offering objectives and hidden secrets for the observant player.
Monument Valley & Monument Valley 2
Developer: ustwo games
Release Date: April 15
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
Both "Monument Valley" and its sequel continue to captivate players with their dreamlike adventures and mind-bending puzzles. Guide Princess Ida through surreal architectural wonders in "Monument Valley," while "Monument Valley 2" introduces new characters and challenges. These award-winning games push the boundaries of perception with their optical illusions and artistic design.
Bear Knight Honey Quest
Developer: Marcos Game Dev
Release Date: April 16
"Bear Knight Honey Quest" is a delightful action platformer suitable for gamers of all ages. Join a lovable bear and his trusty sword on a mission to recover the stolen honey of a bee queen. With simple controls and family-friendly gameplay, this game offers fun and adventure for everyone.
Farmer’s Life
Developer: FreeMind S.A.
Release Date: April 16
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
"Farmer’s Life" invites players to embrace the rustic charm of rural living. Experience the joys and challenges of managing a vibrant farmstead, where you can plant crops, raise animals, and build a thriving agricultural empire. This simulation game offers a vast open world with diverse mechanics and endless opportunities for creativity.
I, Robot
Developer: Atari
Release Date: April 16
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
Jeff Minter brings his unique touch to "I, Robot," a reimagining of the classic 1980s Atari arcade game. Known for his vibrant and eclectic style, Minter infuses this retro title with new challenges and twists, delivering a fresh take on a beloved classic.
Moving Houses
Developer: Eastasiasoft Limited
Release Date: April 16
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere
"Moving Houses" offers a whimsical take on the often mundane task of packing and moving. This physics-based game allows players to enjoy casual gameplay while boxing up their lives. Whether you prefer a neat and orderly approach or embrace chaos, the game provides a fun and lighthearted experience.
Sunshower
Developer: NOKOGODO
Release Date: April 16
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere
"Sunshower" is a vibrant arcade action game where you control a robot navigating a rainstorm. Utilize the plant on your head to reach the sky and achieve high scores, combatting the elements to prevent the world from being washed away.
Vinebound: Tangled Together
Developer: Silesia Games Sp. z o.o.
Release Date: April 16
"Vinebound: Tangled Together" is a cooperative roguelike game for 1-2 players. Coordinate attacks with a unique ping-pong cooldown system to defeat waves of enemies. Test the strength of your friendship as you battle through the botanical chaos of the Garden Lands.
Crime Scene Cleaner
Developer: PlayWay S.A.
Release Date: April 17
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Xbox Play Anywhere
In "Crime Scene Cleaner," players take on a gritty role, performing dirty work for shady clientele to save a loved one. Tackle challenging scenarios that require a bucket and mop, as you navigate this unique and morally complex game.
KEMCO RPG Selection Vol. 4
Developer: KEMCO
Release Date: April 17
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
This collection brings together four classic RPGs in one bundle: "Chronus Arc," "Bonds of the Skies," "Legend of the Tetrarchs," and "Monochrome Order." Dive into these beloved role-playing games and experience their rich narratives and engaging gameplay.
Leila
Developer: NAISU
Release Date: April 17
"Leila" offers a narrative-driven puzzle adventure where players explore the life of the titular character. Solve puzzles to unveil significant life moments, revealing the motivations behind Leila’s choices. This introspective game invites players to reflect on their own lives through Leila’s journey.
Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree
Developer: Knights Peak
Release Date: April 17
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S
"Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree" combines action-RPG elements with Metroidvania and Soulslike gameplay. Enter the dark realm of Entropy with your Witch Lantern and battle through this 2.5D side-scroller. The game promises intense combat and a richly detailed world to explore.
Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds Ultimate
Developer: Rocket Panda Games
Release Date: April 17
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
This side-scrolling beat ’em up combines the best elements of fighting games with pixel art anime aesthetics. Support for up to 8-player online multiplayer ensures chaos and fun as you battle through waves of enemies with your friends.
Terror Mansion
Developer: Domynyo SRL
Release Date: April 17
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Xbox Play Anywhere
"Terror Mansion" is a first-person horror game that places you in a terrifying mansion filled with puzzles and challenges. Your mission is to escape while solving riddles and exploring the eerie environments that await within the mansion’s walls.
The Safe Place
Developer: Restless Corp
Release Date: April 17
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere
As the third installment in a trilogy, "The Safe Place" is a poignant point-and-click adventure that explores the harsh realities of childhood and self-sacrifice. Follow the intertwined lives of two characters, experiencing an emotional journey that will leave a lasting impact.
Tempopo
Developer: CULT Games
Release Date: April 17
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere
In "Tempopo," players aid Hana as she collects scattered musical flowers across sky islands. Using your conducting skills, guide the whimsical Tempopo to solve puzzles and restore harmony to Hana’s garden.
Cute Puppy Academy
Developer: COMMANDO PANDA
Release Date: April 18
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
"Cute Puppy Academy" is a delightful simulation game where you train and care for adorable puppies. Engage in activities like feeding, grooming, and teaching tricks. Expand your academy to welcome more puppies and become the top trainer in town.
LUNAR Remastered Collection
Developer: GungHo Online Entertainment America, Inc.
Release Date: April 18
Platform: Xbox Play Anywhere
The "LUNAR Remastered Collection" brings together the beloved JRPGs "Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete" and "Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete." This remastered edition offers enhanced graphics and audio, providing a nostalgic yet fresh experience for fans and newcomers alike.
Snow Squall
Developer: Dolores Entertainment
Release Date: April 18
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
"Snow Squall" is a survival game set in a frozen wilderness. After your helicopter crashes, you must complete your mission and deliver supplies to a research facility while surviving the harsh conditions and a mysterious presence.
Space Smash
Developer: Rising Moon Games
Release Date: April 18
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
"Space Smash" is a retro-style shoot ’em up inspired by classic arcade games. Its fast-paced, addictive gameplay makes it a perfect choice for quick gaming sessions, reminiscent of the arcade era.
Thrill Penguin
Developer: Ratalaika Games S.L.
Release Date: April 18
Platform: Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery
In "Thrill Penguin," players take on the role of an ambitious penguin aspiring to be a parkour master. Traverse six unique zones filled with challenging levels, showcasing your agility and skills in this vibrant platformer.
With such a diverse array of games launching this week, there’s no shortage of entertainment for Xbox fans. Whether you’re seeking thrilling action, intriguing puzzles, or nostalgic adventures, these titles promise to deliver engaging experiences for every type of gamer. Stay tuned to your favorite platform for these exciting releases!
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