Xbox Developer Direct: things on the up for 2023?

xbox developer direct 2023

Some quick notes from the Developer Direct:

  • Release date for Forza Motorsport reboot isn’t concrete beyond “2023”, but the gameplay looked phenomenal
  • Hi-Fi rush was dropped after the Developer Direct, and looks like the perfect addition to the Xbox library
  • Things look business as usual for Elder Scrolls Online – a new expansion is due in the summer
  • Redfall gameplay looked similar to what we’ve seen, and its gotten a release date of 5/2/23
  • Minecraft Legends, releasing 4/3/23, looks like it has the potential to have a real hook with some of the details of its strategy focused gameplay still up in the air
  • An IGN interview with Phil Spencer on 1/27/23 evokes a sense of modest optimism for Xbox’s output for 2023 (well worth a read)

The Xbox Developer Direct came and went a couple of days ago, and I have to say, it was refreshing. There weren’t any bombshells. Some information is still left up in the air (Forza Motorsport when?). But overall, it was nice to see a show that got right to it, and I’m hoping Xbox can continue the format on a semi-regular basis.

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Forza basics: does FH4 have Tesla cars?

mountain look off in winter forza horizon 4

Play as you please and do what you want – one of the best aspects of Forza Horizon 4 is the ability to jump in and get going almost immediately. I’m one that would have enjoyed a more handcrafted approach to some of the game’s aspects, but it’s undeniably excellent evoking freedom.

Variety also cues an experience that is never too bogged down by feeling samey. Unfortunately, there are some exclusions in the car roster that may leave some fans wanting more.

If you’re wondering whether the game has Tesla vehicles, this isn’t the game to enjoy one of Elon Musk’s pillars of output.

Forza Horizon 4 does not feature any Tesla cars and most likely never will with the looming release of Forza Horizon 5. Content production for the game has come to a standstill.

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GT Sport: where are the time trial leaderboards?

gt sport wrx sti

I, like many, held off on buying the newest installment of Gran Turismo due to its anemic amount of content. Once it became clear that Polyphony Digital was in it for the long term with regular free content drops, my stance quickly changed.

The change of perspective cost me $20 at the time and it’s what the game retails for these days at places like Amazon and GameStop.

At over 60 hours of in game driving time, I’ve found it to be well worth the asking price, especially with continued free DLC car packs and tracks.

The only caveat with this is a single glaring omission from the game – proper time trial leaderboards.

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