Windows Central Insider
Xbox is Microsoft's gaming division. Launched in 2001 with the original Xbox console (presented by Bill Gates and The Rock, no less), the division has gone through multiple permutations on its journey to its current form. Originally envisioned as a device that could bring Windows to the living room, Xbox eventually competed more directly with PlayStation targeting core gamers.
Xbox had solid success in the United States and other English-speaking markets, buoyed by heavy hitters like Halo and Forza, alongside various heavy hitting third-party exclusive titles. Microsoft's Xbox is responsible for various gaming innovations that are now commonplace. Online live infrastructure, "games as a service" titles, subscription services, and cloud-first business models owe at least something to initiatives spearheaded by Microsoft (for better or worse).
Essential Xbox reading
Latest about Xbox
Teams meetings are about to get less chaotic thanks to UI fixes
Apps Small UI tweaks aim to cut down on accidental hand raises and premature exits.
You'll finally be able to use Rewards points directly on Xbox soon
XBOX Microsoft is expanding its Rewards program with a new feature that will allow Xbox users to spend points directly on console.
Xbox hires for major new comms role to "protect and elevate" the brand
Xbox Xbox is hiring a senior brand and reputation lead, suggesting a renewed focus on messaging, consistency, and how the platform presents itself across media, partners, and its community.
Xbox pushes back on swirling third-party "Project Helix" rumors
Xbox While OEM devices are not ruled out, the company remains committed to building and selling its own hardware, offering clearer direction amid ongoing speculation.
Xbox's Starfield just topped US game sales for the first time since launch
Xbox Starfield was the best-selling game in the US during the same week that the Xbox RPG came to PS5 and got some sizable content updates from Bethesda.
Dear Xbox, stop apologizing for your existence
Xbox If there's one thing I think Xbox should change under new CEO Asha Sharma — it's in how Xbox presents itself to the public. Xbox needs to stop hiding.
Microsoft and Xbox just announced a new games showcase coming this week
Xbox The ID@Xbox and IGN April 2026 Showcase has been announced, and will bring Xbox and PC gamers a closer look at new indie games on the way later this week.
Vampire Crawlers (Xbox Game Pass) Review
REVIEW Poncle has done it again. Vampire Crawlers is a quirky, tactical evolution of the Survivors formula. A must-play on Xbox Game Pass.
