With the X018 event in Mexico City wrapped up, it’s safe to say that big things are happening over at Microsoft. With new announcements, releases and numerous acquisitions, Microsoft weren’t pulling any punches this year.
Gamers were rapt watching titillating trailers throughout the event which kicked off with a trailer for the long awaited Kingdom Hearts III, and the finale of the story seems to be upon us. Among returning characters is paragon of good Winnie the Pooh (never thought I’d ever have to write those words), and the shady Organization XIII setting up for a beautiful, if goofy, finale.
Void Bastards, releasing immediately after it was revealed during X018, appears to be both mechanically innovative and visually beautiful. This ‘strategic shooter’ from System Shock 2 and Bioshock developer Jonathan Chey looks like a strong cocktail of FTL and countless tactical, class based shooters - clever bastard indeed.
Another small, yet fundamental announcement is the addition of keyboard and mouse support for Xbox One. While not immediately available for many games (Fortnite and Strange Brigade are the biggest titles with support right now), Microsoft have confirmed any developer may enable this support in future. This news was both unexpected and impressive, suggesting Microsoft are beginning to fuse more PC-centric mainstays with home console gaming.
Another small, yet fundamental announcement is the addition of keyboard and mouse support for Xbox One.
Last but definitely not least, Microsoft announced their acquisition of Obsidian Entertainment, the developers of Pillars of Eternity and Fallout: New Vegas, as well as inXile Entertainment (Wasteland 2). With two RPG giants in their arsenal now, I’m sure Microsoft have enormous plans for both the upcoming Wasteland 3 as well as the untitled RPG from Obsidian.
All in all, X018 shook the ground in many ways - Microsoft are definitely in the good books of the public for the time being, and I’m excited to see what’s in store for their next generation console.
