1120°

What’s inside the new Xbox One?

Microsoft are reported to be upgrading their console – but how? A new article speaks with the experts for their views on what's next for the Xbox One.

corroios2913d ago

Better cpu, gpu and better setup for ram. Easy . More power

Gol3m2911d ago

Won't happen to the ram. They need to keep the ESRAM setup or else they will separate their audience

starchild2911d ago

Not any more than upgrading a GPU or CPU.

Higher resolutions require more RAM. I can often find my system using well over two times as much VRAM in going from 1080p to 4k resolutions. It depends on the game.

GUTZnPAPERCUTZ2911d ago

eSRAM is on the APU Dye, has nothing to do with System RAM like DDR3, they should use DDR4 like they were from the start...

MrSec842911d ago

At 14nm more eSRAM could be included on die, like 64MB+ cache, along with a bigger bus for DDR3.
As far as I'm aware Microsoft's whole development initiative moving forward is about ease of porting between all windows devices, so an updated XB1 could use a more standard form of VRAM like GDDR5, GDDR5X or HBM.

MS would just need to up the quantities of RAM and/or bandwidth to feed a bigger GPU.
I wouldn't be surprised if any of the above ended up happening if MS are making a newer, more powerful XB1 console.

Microsoft definitely needs to offer a unit with more performance if they want to stay in competition with Sony and perhaps NX.
We'll see what happens though.

BattleAxe2911d ago (Edited 2911d ago )

I think that with backwards compatibility, and all of the great features that Xbox offers gamers, including an Early Access program and the ability to turn your Xbox One into a Dev Kit, they should accompany the new Xbox model with an updated name like Xbox Won.

Letthewookiewin2911d ago

What a slap in the face to existing X1 customers!

D2K2911d ago

I assume you are being facetious.

Unspoken2911d ago (Edited 2911d ago )

Split their audience with what? Make some sense man.

The difference with Xbox owners is they are already well aware of the capabilities of their console compared to others. When a developer makes an upgraded version of a game, original Xbox owners will not cry foul. They are satisfied with their purchase and the graphical settings it comes with. They didn't buy the Xbox on the sole purpose of having a few more pixels on the screen. They purchased an XOne, because of Live, or the comminity, maybe their friends are on the same platform, or maybe the quality of games and new IPs.

On the other hand, those who went with Sony on the sole purpose of having a more powerful console for triple plats are going to be the ones who will be jaded the most. They have been very vocal about the graphical differences between the consoles. And we know which system most of those people purchased.

A large chunk of that 40 million is making there purchasing decision on higher resolutions, and those consumers can be swayed to a more powerful system especially with the media riling up controversy for the masses. Those consumers will feel had, thinking they purchased the more powerful system, when an even more powerful one is right around the corner?

Now what do they do with their inferior PS4 they just shelled out hard earned money for?

Pogmathoin2911d ago

Hopefully nothing but cosmetic..... Sick of all this crap with .5. If they start down this road with
PS, will just save my money and go PC.....

rainslacker2911d ago (Edited 2911d ago )

It's possible to overcome that with something like DDR4 with DMA access for both the CPU and GPU....which is part of the DX API for consoles. However, it's performance would be a brute force technique, and possibly require some updates, as the system bus is nowhere near as fast as the internal memory bus.

However, the more sensible thing to do for making it simple is to just keep it, which could add to an improved memory system. That however will increase costs, as ESRAM isn't particularly cheap, and only exists due to the memory bottleneck which exists currently. It's one of those things where going forward, it could be an issue if this upgrade mentality goes on indefinitely.

@star

4GB is plenty to display 4K frames, and it's likely the new hardware will only be 1080 anyhow. I doubt these systems are going to use the high end of the 4K spectrum, so it should be enough. The other 1.5 roughly available is sufficient for the game processes in most cases. GB No need to really upgrade at this point unless they're going to push more objects/effects on screen....which wouldn't make sense with the current belief that it's just going to upgrade the graphics. Overall, at some point, the video memory capacity starts to see diminishing returns when it comes to displaying better images, and the frame buffer memory is more important to the render size, whereas the GPU memory is more about how many things can be displayed, with some measurement being given to texture and object quality, which is marginal in the grand scheme of things as most 4K capable games still use the same textures from their 1080 counterparts.

@MrSec

That would probably be necessary if improved versions were going to use the ESRAM for their frame buffer. However, ESRAM isn't particularly cheap, and only exists as a way to get around a bottleneck introduced by the memory. Would make more sense to remove it, or keep it the same for legacy support, for long term just so it can be phased out to not be a hindrance in the future. Unfortunately, on the development side, the rendering pipelines may have to be completely changed to make that work between the two builds.

Geoff9002911d ago

They could just have the ESRAM and RAM separate.

We will soon see what they are doing.

1nsomniac2911d ago

It's not about separating their audience. If they changed the RAM setup they would physically have to create 2 versions of the same game. With ESRAM devs need to specifically code for that memory you can't suddenly change to a unified DDR memory without haveing to completely reprogram your entire back catalogue & upcoming games from scratch.

2911d ago
kevnb2911d ago

Do you even know what you are talking about?

PistolsAtDawn2911d ago

I actually hope they keep ESRAM, maybe just up the size of it in addition to more RAM/CPU power. It also wouldn't be a bad idea to make the Ram upgradable similar to PC IMO.

343_Guilty_Spark2910d ago

No they don't. Where are you getting your information? They don't need to keep ESRAM at all.

+ Show (13) more repliesLast reply 2910d ago
2911d ago Replies(5)
2911d ago Replies(5)
PistolsAtDawn2911d ago

Apparently being a more powerful console only matters while PS4 has the power gap lead. Suddenly when there is talk of the OPTION of being able to grab a more powerful console...then these are bad ideas. I honestly think that is why there is the majority of the negativity surrounding the idea of more powerful PS4's or X1's. It opens the floodgates and means that potentially PS will not be the more powerful console anymore, and that scares people that have staked their whole online persona on PS being the more powerful console. It's why brand loyalty is dangerous business.

If they can make upgrades simply and OPTION...and they are completely forward and backward compatible (well obviously EVENTUALLY there would be a limit to forward compatibility)...then I have no issue with it at all, and I will be grabbing the new consoles.

DeadlyFire2911d ago

Same as PS4 neo likely. Higher clock on 14nm Soc for CPU, RAM, and bigger chunk of GPU. Probably little less than Neo, but more than NX. So it can sell at lower price piont. I believe anyway.

ArmrdChaos2911d ago

This is why they are pushing the use of DirectX 12 on their console. They upgrade the hardware, they upgrade DirectX 12, and then the developers have access. The only thing they would need to adjust code for would be extra features added to the newer version.

+ Show (3) more repliesLast reply 2910d ago
Free_Fro2913d ago (Edited 2913d ago )

It's just a slimmer version ...
I don't understand this sudden thirst for 'moar powah' on consoles..

Shubhendu_Singh2912d ago

I would love more power, but this Xbox One : II is definitely just a slimmer version.

Fin_The_Human2911d ago

If you want a more powerful console you should buy the Neo.

2910d ago
XanderZane2910d ago

I think there are TWO consoles coming from Microsoft. Probably why the FCC shows Microsoft filing two different hardware. One is probably a Slim to replace the older XB1 (I think they are going to phase the original XB1 out by the end of the year). The XB1 Slim probably won't have any changes to it. Then there will be a new XBox Next that will launch in early Nov that will be B/C to XB1, but a lot more powerful. Gamers who think there will only be a Slim model and no other hardware to compete with PS4 Neo or NX are delusional.

https://www.vg247.com/2016/...

My only issue with TWO systems is why release a SLIM model this year? Obviously any gamer who doesn't own an XB1 will simply wait for the more powerful XBox Next instead of buying the cheaper weaker XB1 Slim. I know Microsoft wants to save money immediately, but I think the XB1 Slim model won't sell as well as a more powerful XB1, especially if the price is right.

jb2272910d ago

I know its a long shot, but I'm liking the theory that the reason for these console upgrades are actually to integrate some form of Nintendo streaming component. Sony may be using the opportunity to upgrade power for VR & MS may just be opting for a slim version, but they are both being compelled to do this to allow for Nintendo games to play on the new box, either through streaming of the back catalogue or actual disc based play off of new NX titles.

May be totally impossible, but if Nintendo pivoted to a software approach, they would become bigger than EA over night. Other companies like Sega had varying degrees of success doing this, but none of those other companies had Nintendo's catalogue of exclusives. Imagine how much a game like Mario or Zelda could sell if it was a multiplat? It could feasibly put up near GTA numbers. I honestly think it'd be the best bet for Nintendo's future. Open up those IPs, hand someone like Dreamwork or Disney over the film rights, open up the games for play across other platforms, and watch the money roll in.

+ Show (1) more replyLast reply 2910d ago
kneon2911d ago

It's not sudden, I wanted more power up front, but too many people whined about launch prices last gen so they were limited by the need to keep the price down.

Aloy-Boyfriend2911d ago

Fk yeah!!

These upgradable consoles are the result of last gen overstaying and cheapstakes complaining about launch prices last gen, especially the PS3 which had the coolest tech in its time.

I was againts buying chips to upgrade consoles. An upgraded console sounds better but I'm still not onboard with this. Will wait and see

extermin8or2911d ago

Tbf think about it, will have cost people the same as a launch ps3 if they upgrade but they are getting choice on pricing and it will have been split into two chunks year apart which is more affordable for most. Assuming ms do same as Sony are doing with the neo then same applies pricing wise.

_-EDMIX-_2911d ago

You don't get the concept of wanting games to run better on XONE?

Thats nice...keep your old XONE and let folks have an option for a better XONE. You don't need to "understand" it for it to exist bud. XONE is running lots of games at 900p, many want to runt their games at 1080p.

Not rocket science buddy, pretty straight forward.

AndrewLB2911d ago

And most multiplat games have to be seriously dumbed down in order to play at 1080p on PS4. And don't even try to say otherwise, because if Sony's hardware had the power those games would look just like the PC version. Clearly they don't.

Nathan_Hale532907d ago

@AndrewLB they do look like PC games, maybe not on ultra settings but on similar settings towards high. For both consoles and the main/only difference in graphics from xbone and PS4 is resolution when it comes to graphics, but that literally form 900p to 1080p is quite a large jump in performance and imo, graphics. Games on console are better optimized and can run those settings @1080p cause of optimization. I am a PC gamer and I know that a lot of games get the shaft when it comes to optimization *cough Dark Knight...

gangsta_red2911d ago

It's funny because the PS4 is supposedly the most powerful console out and now people are asking for more power?

Exactly what would more power accomplish besides better graphics? You would still play CoD, Battlefield and every other game the same.

People are asking salivating for more power but not wanting something different. And then when something comes along that is different...people call it a 'gimmick'.

ziggurcat2911d ago

Exactly what? Better frame rates.

And there's nothing wrong with wanting an even more powerful console.

gangsta_red2911d ago (Edited 2911d ago )

@Ziggur

Better framerates? Are the frame rates terrible now? Is that the only other reason for wanting more power you can bring to the discussion?

Again, there is something wrong when there's no point in asking for more power? What is the point of more power when most of all the new games play exactly the same as they did for the 360 and the PS3.

SpaceRanger2911d ago

How is that funny?
With that mentality you'd be better off playing the PS3/360 version of any multiplat game. I mean, if you compared them to the current consoles it's only better graphics right?

And a gimmick is something that is made and not supported at all over its product lifespan. Increasing graphical power to any of the available consoles is anything but a gimmick. Having any gaming peripheral with a handful of games is a gimmick.

gangsta_red2911d ago

@Ranger

It's funny because people are just asking for more power just for the sake of asking for it. But no one has any clue on what this extra power should do.

It's like asking for more cheeseburgers with extra cheese and yet you're already stuffed.

"you'd be better off playing the PS3/360 version of any multiplat game."

And I bet the only difference would be the graphics so again what would be the point of more power when the games would play exactly the same? Have the same design? Have the same control scheme, same levels, same characters, same everything except one is just shinier.

All I'm seeing are some asking for more power 'Hooray'! But why, for what? A bigger more massive GTA? An open MMO action God of War game? A Space sim type of game that is filled with aliens and actual people able to colonize planets and build cities.

No, all i see is more power for better gwafix!

"And a gimmick is something that is made and not supported at all over its product lifespan."

Beta was a gimmick? Sorry, the term for gimmick at least on this site is anything that is not how we usually play games or is presented differently and we don't want it to change unless we of course like it, then it's innovative.

TFJWM2911d ago

@gangsta_red "It's funny because people are just asking for more power just for the sake of asking for it. But no one has any clue on what this extra power should do. "

"And I bet the only difference would be the graphics so again what would be the point of more power when the games would play exactly the same? Have the same design? Have the same control scheme, same levels, same characters, same everything except one is just shinier. "

Umm yes that is the only reason why PC gamers upgrade it is the same game that just looks better and has a better FPS. Upgrading your video card doesn't change the game....

So how can you not understand how some console gamers would want to upgrade for better FPS and graphics....

_-EDMIX-_2911d ago

Buddy if it makes all games run 1080p 60 frames that has a value.

I don't even understand what you're trying to debate, it might be one of the dumbest post I've read in a long time.

Red... just stop posting.

Somebody wants better frames and they want better resolution they don't want their games at 900p, they will pay for better performance that's all you need to know. As to why you're trying to debate its importance is beyond me.

rainslacker2911d ago (Edited 2911d ago )

Thing is, I don't think most people are asking for it. While there is a lot of this lamenting power nonsense, most of it is contained to PC people or those who had unreasonable expectations for the generation. The number of people I've seen complain about the power up front is no higher than I've seen complain about a consoles power in past generations, because there are people that always complain. Never has it really been a consideration to companies to have to compensate mid gen....except maybe Sega, which wasn't exactly the same thing.

And yes, about all one would get is better graphics, and possibly better performance in some areas. Hardly something that I feel is worth any company taking a risk on, especially the company that is killing it in sales right now.

Ask for better games, maybe they'll come. Oh wait....they don't. We've been asking since last gen. But now people think that companies are listening to people say, "make better hardware"? Sure, as a company I could see why I would want to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on R&D, marketing, support, manufacturing, and distribution to resolve a problem that isn't a problem, and has never actually been a problem in the past instead of investing that money in something more profitable like games which will get people interested in buying the system. All of this just defies all logic.

extermin8or2911d ago (Edited 2911d ago )

Higher frame rate? A more stable frame rate.

GrubsterBeater2911d ago

@Red

Do you seriously not understand why people would want better graphics and FPS for the same game?

Are you debating simply for the sake of... debating? I don't understand how this doesn't make sense to you.

Let me give you an example so you can fathom this....

Console A plays Game X at 900p 30FPS.

Along comes upgraded version of the same console.. CHOO CHOO!!

Console B (Upgraded Console) plays Game X at 1080p 60FPS.

Console B "simply has better graphics and FPS".

Which console would someone prefer..? Hmmm....

It's really that simple, dude. How this is hard for you to grasp is beyond me...

DigitalRaptor2911d ago (Edited 2911d ago )

If you were actually that bothered about exposing people for their desires on how games look and run, you would have brought this viewpoint to the conversation about remastered games long ago. Why do you want to play those games in higher resolution and at higher frame rates? Asking if that is really all they offer, would make you look stupid. People will want better looking and running games. They want better looking, running and sounding everything. If it's offered to them at reasonable prospect, and they want it, they will take it.

Don't see where your issue is stemming from here, other than to be controversial about natural order in the technology world. What upgrading PC parts every few years offers those who want more power out of their rig, is exactly what you're asking of people to tell you. The information is right there. You should already know this because PC gamers have offered their opinion on the benefits of this for long enough.

A gimmick is a gimmick if it is proven to be a gimmick. Not sure what you're trying to get at there. Risk-taking on "something different" is still happening in this industry and always has its chance at success, like any other piece of hardware that is offering nothing but more power. We're already at the stage where this year we have "something different" for PlayStation gamers in PSVR, and those salivating for more power get the PS4K.

VR offers different design, a different control scheme and everything else you mentioning of wanting out of "something different", yet it's one of the things you criticise most. You're just confusing yourself here, and it's actually you who doesn't know what they want. And using the word "gwafix" to provide condescension for what the technology industry thrives on, only serves to make you look silly.

maniacmayhem2910d ago

But the ps4 fans and fanboys were all satisfied with having the superior console playing their supposedly superior games.

Were these people lying? Was the PS4 not as powerful as most on this site kept claiming?
We're they secretly not satisfied with the games and wished the PS4 was even MOAR powerful than they kept boasting?

I keep reading framerate, framerate, but in almost every digital foundry article the framerates for both were consistent with drops that were hardly noticeable. And even then we heard "PS4 is the superior version" with most of the time a stable framerate. So yea, more power for what?

Why do you want more power was the question asked and as usual all I'm reading are bullshit answers that are not even touching the subject. But dancing around it and calling the person who post it names trying to deflect the argument.

It went from a lot of you liking consoles for being a fixed, out the box, plug and play device that will be supported for 5 to 6 years, shitting on supposed PC "elitist" for having to spend $XXXX.XX amount of money on yearly upgrades to now celebrating the mobile phone concept for consoles.

And only because your favorite companies are telling you to accept this up the rear.

@Digital
***A gimmick is a gimmick if it is proven to be a gimmick. Not sure what you're trying to get at there.***

Not even sure what language you are typing here.

Everything you posted makes zero sense and only reeks of covering Sony's ass.

_-EDMIX-_2910d ago

@GrubsterBeater- Agreed. Buddy...I'm having a very hard time trying to even get what he is attempting to debate.

Something better and a value to consumers apparently is debatable to this man lol The number is higher.....he questions why someone wants this LOL!

How? I'm just not sure I fully get why he is posting and it sounds like he legit is just arguing for the sake of arguing.

1080p 60fps sounds better to a consumer then 900p 30fps. Of course some don't care, I'm even on the fence on getting a PS4.5 as it might not be that big of a deal to me, but I won't just ignore the obvious reasons why someone would want the better option.

+ Show (9) more repliesLast reply 2910d ago
Sciurus_vulgaris2911d ago (Edited 2911d ago )

I am not convinced at all by these upgradesd console rumours..

Geoff9002911d ago

Because 4k T.Vs are only around the corner, the next Nintendo console, and the fact that Sony is making another SKU, they need to make their console compete otherwise the Xbox will be retired, which will be bad for competition.

Silly gameAr2911d ago

I don't understand why people just think it's going to be a slim. Guess they don't want to believe that MS is doing the same as other companies, and it they believe it's only a sim model, it wont get any backlash.

Nathan_Hale532910d ago

Like most "slim" consoles, they will just overclock the processor and GPU a bit. Same with the PS4 slim. People just want to have a war and/or have really high hopes for some reason.

+ Show (6) more repliesLast reply 2907d ago
ArchangelMike2913d ago

If it's bad for Sony to split their 40milllion install base with PS4Neo, then it's going to be even worse for Microsoft to split their 20Million intall base with Xbox1.5.

Shubhendu_Singh2912d ago

Still can't understand how PS4Neo splits PS4's install base. People had listed the reason why that won't be the case many many times.

Godmars2902911d ago

Depends on what the Neo actually is and how developing titles with it in mind will effect current PS4s. With it suppose to handle 4k resolution natively, devs -AAA level devs anyway- have to include 4k coding into future titles and there's no telling what that's going to do to the performance of older consoles.

Then again if nothing goes wrong -good luck there given what the industry is- that Neo might run 720p/30fps better will likely piss off the hardcore.

DeadlyFire2911d ago

Its the same Soc as PS4 in the Neo Soc its just on the 14nm die. So the parts can clock higher with no extra heat. CPU and RAM. GPU is extra though. Only change from the original Soc in the PS4.

Xbox should see very similar changes.

OoglyBoogly2911d ago

You people need to quit with the "split" bullshit. If Neo is true and all the papers were true it's the same damn console as the PS4 just more powerful. No exclusive anything. No split. Get that through your head.

starchild2911d ago

Exclusively better looking and better playing games. I'm in favor of it, but I don't understand why some people keep denying this aspect of it.

Why would it matter if they improved the graphics in other ways too? People could still claim the gameplay is the same.

Unspoken2911d ago

Because that didn't work for Xbox. Playing the same game isn't enough for a good chunk of Sony players, they went with the PS4 for better graphics and all the 1080p articles. But now apparently the more powerful console is no longer an issue. Hmmm

2911d ago Replies(7)
_-EDMIX-_2911d ago

How do you know it will split it? From the rumors, both will use the same MARKET, they will USE THE SAME GAMES, THUS...the install base will be the same.

Care to even explain what you mean by "split"?

Ark_2911d ago (Edited 2911d ago )

1) Multiplayer (More FPS and higher Resolution for Neo-Players will unbalance games.)
2) Identity crises (What is now X1 vs. PS4 graphic comparison bullshit articles, may get a new spin: Neo vs. Legacy)
3) Exclusives? The rumour goes they rule it out, but I guess that there will be exclusives for PSVR later on, since Legacy PS4 will just not cut it for AAA titles. (Marketing spin: "When we promised parity on games, we didn't mean PSVR. We considered PSVR allways a seperate platform with it's own rules ...")

All this has the potential to split the community.

But I guess people will just get used to it, since everything applies to PC gaming the same way and works fine (to a degree). Console gaming will just loose some of it's advantages: parity in multiplayer, better price point etc.
That said: as a PC gamer I welcome those updates very much, so devs can take advantage of stronger hardware. I even consider to get a Neo now - mainly for the exclusives and maybe for PSVR - depends how everything turns out. Pricepoint, specs etc. More info on E3 I guess ...

_-EDMIX-_2910d ago

@Ark- 1 - yet PC gamers, play MP games just fine bud.
2- irrelevant. Someone can feel this emotional way about someone having a SLIM or ELITE or a sticker on their PS4 or a version of PS4. http://nerdist.com/wp-conte...
irrelevant and don't care what children are crying about, will they not cry over anything and everything? How is it relevant to sales? LMFAO!
3.Exclusives? They it has none. "but I guess that there will be exclusives for PSVR later on" irrelevant, the device is VR, of course its going to have its own games, the damn concept of those games are ABOUT VR! LOL! Another irrelevant reason that doesn't even make any sense based on PS4.5.

"All this has the potential to split the community" none of which you've shown besides peoples "feelings" and "emotions" did Timmy not cry when his buddy got a special edition PS4? http://i1.2pcdn.com/node14/...

How is that relevant to the market? Install base? If you are going off of emotion, no on cares. People cry over other folks having better cars, OH so don't make a new model of a car? Timmy is going to cry about it?

Was Timmy going to buy 2 cars if we didn't make a new version? Was ALL consumers like Timmy ALL going to buy 2 brand new cars in order for us to NOT make a new version? SO once again....how is that relevant to the market, install base and company? Get mad, cry about it....no one cares. No company caters to such idiots as it doesn't do anything to them. If you want a Lexus 2016, buy it. If you're upset that Lexus has now split the "community" because a 2017 version is out, something is deeply wrong bud.

The game will play PS4 games, it doesn't have its own games or market, won't have its own exclusives.

End of story. You're entire post is legit irrelevant to what the rumor states. I'd worry if it had its own market....it doesn't. THAT is what would split and fracture the community. PS4.5 games sku, PS4.5 exclusives, PS4.5 PSN etc. PS4.5 to my understanding is a PS4 and does all the things a PS4 does, ONLY PLAYS PS4 games.

fanboysmackdown2911d ago (Edited 2911d ago )

The only thing it will split is the crybabies from gamers who want innovation.....nice try though.

_-EDMIX-_2910d ago

lol agreed. Those same crybabies could be crying because they didn't get this.

http://cdn.gsmarena.com/img...

or this.

http://i1.2pcdn.com/node14/...

or this

http://nerdist.com/wp-conte...

What benefit does any company even have appeasing such an idiot? LMFAO! No one has yet to really answer this. As if no giving opinions will help them because cry babies are scared someone will own a better version lol

Is that putting more money in Sony or MS's pocket?

Geoff9002911d ago

All have to do is the same thing developers do with PC's make the games scalable, games run at a lower resolution to hit target framerate, and higher res for the more powerful hardware.

Perjoss2911d ago

Sony know what they are doing, they are not Nintendo.

+ Show (4) more repliesLast reply 2910d ago
ScorpiusX2911d ago (Edited 2911d ago )

Have no idea , yet i still want one

BiggerBoss2911d ago

"I don't know what it is, but I want it."

Bobafret2911d ago

Ewen McGregor spoke that line in The Island regarding a motorcycle.

Antifan2911d ago

That's typical of fanboyism.

ScorpiusX2910d ago

Who cares & give's a damn .

kenwonobi2911d ago Show
Show all comments (178)
60°

Sony's Stellar Inzone Gaming Earbuds Are On Sale For The First Time

The premium Sony Inzone earbuds are designed for PC and PS5, and they're finally getting a discount after launching in late 2023.

Read Full Story >>
gamespot.com
70°

Tomb Raider is coming to Evercade!

The first three Tomb Raider games are coming to an Evercade Cartridge!

Read Full Story >>
evercade.co.uk
darthv721d 22h ago

Their newer giga cart tech should make for even bigger games coming to the platform. I'm hoping for a Resident Evil collection with the first 3 games.

150°

With Larian Out Of The Picture, Will The Baldur's Gate IP Be In Safe Hands?

Huzaifah from eXputer: "With Larian Studios washing their hands of the IP, what is the ultimate fate of the legendary Baldur's Gate series?"

RaidenBlack23h ago

If anybody's gonna mention BioWare, then look at Archetype Entertainment, they're the new BioWare
or else
Obsidian is still a good choice but not independent anymore.

anast23h ago(Edited 23h ago)

No, WoTC is pivoting to mobile. They can use Larian's work to justify DnD Go and everyone will accept it.

RiseNShine23h ago

Short answer, nope. Long answer, f*ck nope.

robtion5h ago

Correct answer. Most people don't realise that the companies that are still making good games using common sense and a customer focus are generally not American. They are from Poland, Belgium, Japan, or other countries that have not yet become completely corrupted by 'extreme capitalism'.

Before you down vote me into oblivion I am not anti-american. I just don't like greed and corruption which unfortunately seems to correlate with power.

I would guess the next Baldurs gate will probably be filled with GaaS.

Christopher23h ago

Honestly, we're talking completely new engine and none of Larian's built-in stuff with regard to environments and the like that they had from their past divinity game. No one is going to have that just ready to go. So, they need to shop for a dev studio that has a past game that shows what they want.

Obsidian doesn't have that, maybe the closest being Dungeon Siege 3 or Pillars of Eternity, but those are very basic, not as open, very little environment related and altering capabilities. So, we're talking a step way back on what Larian delivered. Zero scene experience to line up with what was done in BG3. Okay conversation tree designs, but still needs more complexity.

inXile has Wasteland 3 as a base model engine, and I think that's better than Pillars of Eternity from Obsidian. But, still needs to be more open world, more environmental effects, and a much heavier rules set adaptation. But, not a bad overall engine as a base, but still a ton of work. Zero scene experience to line up with what was done in BG3. Needs a ton of work on that entirely.

Tactical Adventure did the Solasta game. Really good and more accurate as far as 5e rules than BG3. But, again, if the expectation is similar to what made BG3 a big hit, engine isn't designed for moving the camera, is a bit outdated in graphics, doesn't have in-game scene elements, and needs much better writers/voice actors.

Owlcat of pathfinder games is another choice, even though they've recently moved on to WH40k licensed games. Again, though, the engine is the biggest issue here to match up, but it's a much better option overall than Tactical Adventure. Another question is writers/story telling, as much of their overall story telling bits are very limited with a lot of random worldbuilding elements that are just +\- of some attributes.

TBH, no matter who takes over, it's just not going to be like BG3 much like how BG3 isn't at all like BG1/2. And BG3 was so successful because of how much Larian was able to put in with their engine and how focused they were on players having ridiculous control over the story being told. I just don't see the next BG being the same and depending on what it is, it might be good but I'm not as big of a reach as BG3. It's way more likely players are going to go into BG4 (or its spiritual successor if it moves away from Baldur's Gate and into Neverwinter or something like Plansescape) expecting much of what is in BG3 with more options, new and older characters, and the same level of control over what they're doing. If it doesn't have that, regardless of who makes it, it won't be as successful, IMHO.

exputers6h ago

Yes, I completely concur.

As good and talented as inXile and Obsidian are in their own specific way of making their particular games, none of them have Larian's attention to detail, dynamic worlds, and reactivity, so even if they end up making a new Baldur's Gate, it's going to be a significant step-down in terms of gameplay if not narrative.

CrimsonWing6922h ago

Probably not, but maybe… just maybe…

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