DOOM, Ninja Gaiden 4 and more, a look back at the Xbox Developer_Direct
Xbox focuses a lot of its strategy on the Xbox Game Pass. Its subscription service has become the undisputed star of the Redmond company on the video game side. So much so that it communicates very regularly about it, as evidenced, for example, by the announcement of the wave of games added at the beginning of the month. Nevertheless, the company does not just provide a list twice a month on average. It also reserves surprises and sets up meetings to reveal more about the games that are coming. Recently, it broadcast a new Developer_Direct, a format that allows you to appreciate upcoming titles at length. As a bonus, there was an announcement and a surprise.
DOOM: The Dark Ages
The DOOM franchise has been highly appreciated since its creation back in 1993. First-person shooting, brutal gameplay, enemies to take down at sight, it takes no more to be tempted to play as the Doom Slayer. Starting May 15, 2025, players will be able to discover a new chapter. DOOM: The Dark Ages is part of the continuity of the franchise reboot inaugurated in 2016, but it will have the particularity of serving as a prequel. During the event, id Software gave a good preview of the title, whether in terms of story, combat, or exploration.
Indeed, forget the linear side of DOOM and DOOM Eternal, this new installment will allow you to explore the medieval environment created for the occasion. Of course, your arsenal will be your best ally to smash, cut, explode, and more if you wish, the infernal monsters you will encounter. It will be available on PC (Steam or via Xbox Windows), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. The big plus is that the title will be added to the Xbox Game Pass, at least for those subscribed to the Ultimate plan.
South of Midnight
Hazel invites you to an appointment on April 8, 2025, on PC (Steam and via Xbox Windows) and on Xbox Series X|S to discover an adventure based on the gothic folklore of the Southern United States. Benefiting from a unique artistic style, characteristic of Compulsion Games (creator of Contrast and We Happy Few), the game will immerse you in a magical world where some creatures can become your allies and others your enemies. Amidst all this, Hazel will try to understand her newly acquired powers and put them to use as a Weaver. Game Pass subscribers will be able to enjoy it (provided the plan allows) from the day of release.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is the first production by Sandfall Interactive. To showcase its talent, the Montpellier-based studio relies on a polished artistic direction blending fantasy and the French style of the late 19th century. But it doesn't stop there as it aims to offer innovative gameplay designed to energize turn-based play. In other words, it integrates a touch of real-time that requires being reactive, thus constantly on alert. The studio offers a nice preview of nearly three minutes of the game, also an opportunity to appreciate the vast world map. As for the schedule, you can already mark April 24th. This is the date the title will be released on PC (via Xbox Windows) and Xbox Series X|S. Of course, it will also be added to the Game Pass upon release.
Ninja Gaiden 4
Eleven years have passed since the release of Yaiba: Ninja Gaiden Z, the spin-off that focused on a unique visual style. In fact, we no longer really believed in the return of the franchise. That was without knowing Xbox and its desire to surprise. Ninja Gaiden 4 is indeed in the works. It comes from the collaboration between Team NINJA and PlatinumGames for Xbox Game Studios Publishing.
Nevertheless, this will not restrict it to PC and Xbox Series X|S (with confirmation that it will arrive in the Game Pass upon release) since Xbox will also publish the game on PlayStation 5. However, we will have to wait until the fall to discover it. In the meantime, we can enjoy the announcement trailer introducing Yakumo, the new ninja who will be the main protagonist. Fans of the franchise can rest assured, Ryu Hayabusa, the iconic hero, will also be part of the game, playable to boot.
Ninja Gaiden 2 Black
It was the chef's beautiful surprise: Ninja Gaiden 2 Black was announced at the event… And it was added to the Xbox Store immediately. This magnificent shadow drop allows us to dive back into the franchise without delay, enjoying an updated version of Ninja Gaiden 2 thanks to Unreal Engine 5. The good news doesn't stop there as this Black version allows you to play as three additional iconic characters, namely Ayane, Momiji, and Rachel.
