This Week in Xbox - Aaron Greenberg on Quantum Break, Rocket League, Watch Dogs 2

By Jez Corden
last updated

This week, we're looking at Aaron Greenberg's Quantum Break comments, Psyonix's interview on Rocket League for Xbox One, and interesting snippets from Ubisoft's quarterly financials.

We're also giving away a copy of Dying Light: The Following Enhanced Edition to one lucky commenter! Simply leave a reply and join the discussion for a chance to win.

Every week, I collect some of the biggest Xbox news, rumors and talking points into one handy post every weekend. You can also rely on this weekly column to catch up with all the latest game releases.

Welcome to the latest edition of This Week in Xbox One News.

Xbox marketing head Aaron Greenberg discusses Quantum Break heading to Windows 10

This past week, Microsoft announced that Quantum Break would be heading to Windows 10, bundled free with every Xbox One pre-order. The Windows 10 version of Quantum Break will be delivered via the Windows 10 Store, and come complete with Xbox Live achievements, game clip and screenshot sharing and cloud saves — enabling you to transfer your progression from Xbox to PC and vice versa.

Quite notably, some Xbox One fans were upset about the news. Some felt that bringing the previously announced Xbox One-exclusive to PC would diminish the value of the console, and hurt its chances against the PS4. Others felt that Microsoft should've been more transparent about Quantum Break's PC version, which was previously advertised as Xbox One exclusive. Some extended their concerns into the future, envisioning a world where every Xbox One exclusive would hit PC with cross-play, worrying about the possibility of Microsoft forcing Xbox One users to go head to head against keyboard and mouse wielding PC gamers in competitive games (which, by the way, won't happen).

Xbox marketing head Aaron Greenberg discussed some of the concerns on a podcast with Major Nelson (via GameSpot), stating that the announcement's timing was due to uncertainty about when the Windows 10 version would be ready:

"We weren't sure when and how we would be able to get the Windows 10 version done exactly. They lined up, so now a lot of people were like "hey, I get it, you wanna bring this to a lot more gamers to play, but why didn't you tell about this before?" Well, we didn't know we could do this before."

Aaron Greenberg also discussed some of the reasons why Quantum Break is coming to PC, noting that shipping the game to PC gives it a greater potential for success:

"I think that's just leveraging the full ecosystem, how do we make this more accessible to more gamers, I think that's a great opportunity for the title to be more successful. Remedy has a really deep history of bringing their titles to the PC, and being able to get that all done. We had a little bit more time with this title, so being able to deliver both is a good thing, and we'd love to hear people's feedback."

Even though Microsoft are taking PC gaming more seriously, Aaron Greenberg said that Xbox fans shouldn't allow the news to cause anxiety about the future of Xbox as a console:

"Please do not let the fact that we are also launching a game on the same day on Windows 10 change your perspective on the importance of the console business [or] our commitment to innovating on console."

How do you feel about Quantum Break hitting Windows 10? Let us know in the comments.

Quantum Break will arrive on Xbox One and Windows 10 on April 5th, 2016.

See Quantum Break on Amazon (opens in new tab)

Psyonix discusses Rocket League for Xbox One with Major Nelson

For those who don't know, Rocket League is a hit indie sports game popularized on Windows and PS4. The game combines competitive arcade racing with soccer, where your vehicles can be used to smash a gigantic ball into a net. Since the game's PS4 launch, Xbox One owners were wondering whether or not it would arrive on Xbox One, and late last year, Psyonix gave us the answer. Rocket League will hit Xbox One on February 17th, and Psyonix's Jeremy Dunham joined Major Nelson's podcast to discuss Rocket League for Xbox One.

Psyonix stated that the only reason Rocket League hadn't hit Xbox One sooner was a matter of dev hours, rather than exclusivity:

"We hope it means a lot to the Xbox One owners. Since we have announced it a lot of people, especially from the Xbox One fandom side, have really been hounding us to bring it to the system. And we always wanted to. The only reason we couldn't is because we are a small team. So we had to go with one platform at a time."

Rocket League for Xbox One will come with some unique car customization, including vehicles inspired by Gears of War, Halo and Sunset Overdrive. Some of those vehicles will play into the game's Xbox One achievements, which have been streamlined following feedback on the game's PS4 and PC versions:

"[The achievements] are similar. We have consolidated it. We've removed some that were DLC specific since you get a lot of [our previous] DLC for free in this package. But we have added some unique ones. I don't want to give too much away, but if you use a Halo vehicle and the Armadillo vehicle against each other, that is one way to get one. We have definitely tried to make them more streamlined. We've learned a lot over the last eight months about the ones people liked and about the ones that might've been a bit too difficult."

You can pre-order Rocket League right here on the Xbox One Store (opens in new tab), ahead of its February 17th launch.

Ubisoft expects The Division to be one of the biggest new franchise launches in history, Watch Dogs 2 confirmed

Ubisoft is projecting big sales success for The Division. In a call to investors (opens in new tab), Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot discussed their strategy for the year, the future of Assassin's Creed and some big expectations for their upcoming connected shooter-RPG, The Division.

"The Division - whose recent closed beta exceeded all of our expectations - is set to be one of the largest launches of a new brand in the history of the video game industry."

Ubisoft also hailed Rainbow Six Siege for achieving "record engagement levels", spearheading the studio's effort to keep players hooked to Ubisoft services (and revenue streams).

Echoing the news that Assassin's Creed would ditch its efforts to be an annual series, Guillemot stated that the studio was now in a position to re-examine the franchise and give it a "new dimension". If the previous Kotaku leak pans out, Ubisoft will be taking the stealth franchise to ancient Egypt. That same leak also claimed we'd be getting Watch Dogs 2 this year, which has now been confirmed by the same investor's call report.

Ubisoft is in a good position for 2016 and beyond, even without Assassin's Creed. The Division, Far Cry Primal, on-going updates to Rainbow Six Siege, South Park: The Fractured But Whole, Watch Dogs 2, Ghost Recon Wildlands and new IP like For Honor should help the studio delight investors and gamers in equal measure. Only time will tell.

Giveaway – Dying Light: The Following Enhanced Edition for Xbox One

Dying Light The Following

Join the discussion in the comments for a chance to win Dying Light: The Following Enhanced Edition for Xbox One. Dying Light launched last year and became a hit for its blend of parkour, Diablo-like looting mechanics and detailed zombie-apocalyptic world. To celebrate the launch of its hefty expansion, The Following, we're giving away a digital key for the Xbox One version. The Following adds an entirely new area to the game, complete with new weapons, quests and even drivable vehicles. The Enhanced Edition also includes all of the game's previous season pass DLC content in addition to the free updates that Techland have issued over the course of the year.

The winner was kenzibit!

ICYMI - Some of Windows Central's biggest Xbox articles of the week

New Xbox One game releases for the week ending February 14th, 2016

In Space We Brawl: Full Arsenal Edition (opens in new tab) - Shooter - Forge Reply SRL

"In Space We Brawl is a frantic couch twin-stick shooter in which you challenge friends in fast-paced space battles for up to 4 players."

D/Generation HD (opens in new tab) - Classics & Social - West Coast Software Limited

"D/Generation was an immensely popular isometric puzzle game written in 1991 by Robert Cook for PC/DOS and ported by John Jones-Steele to Windows and Amiga/CD32. D/Generation HD has been recreated from the original source code and contains all the original features and puzzles but in glorious HD graphics."

Factotum 90 (opens in new tab) - Action & Adventure, Puzzle & Trivia - TACS Games

"You're in deep space and something's collided with the ship. Main power is offline and you're trapped. It's lucky you have access to this terminal. It's a little old but with these two robots and some clever thinking you might be able to get power back online and save the day."

Unravel (opens in new tab) - Platformer - EA

"Unravel introduces Yarny, a new, lovable and endearing character made from a single thread of yarn, which slowly unravels as you move. Inspired by the unique and breath-taking environments of Northern Scandinavia, Unravel is a visually stunning, physics-based puzzle platformer."

ARSLAN: THE WARRIORS OF LEGEND (opens in new tab) - Action & Adventure - Koei Tecmo

"An exciting collaboration between The Heroic Legend of Arslan anime and the action-infused Warriors series! Experience the grand historical fantasy with ARSLAN: THE WARRIORS OF LEGEND!"

Assassin's Creed Chronicles – Trilogy (opens in new tab) - Action & Adventure - Ubisoft

"Expand your Assassin's Creed experience and discover the forgotten stories of three remarkable Assassins in brand-new settings with fresh 2.5D stealth gameplay. Play the adventures of three cult Assassins: Each chapter comes with a unique hero and a new setting all interconnected through a common plot that will only be revealed at the very end."

NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja STORM 4 (opens in new tab) - Action & Adventure - BANDAI NAMCO

"The latest opus in the acclaimed STORM series is taking you on a colorful and breathtaking ride. Take advantage of the totally revamped battle system and prepare to dive into the most epic fights you've ever seen in the NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja STORM series!"

Dying Light: The Following - Enhanced Edition (opens in new tab) - Action & Adventure - Techland

"Dying Light: The Following - Enhanced Edition takes parkour-fueled zombie survival to a whole new level. Enjoy the definitive Dying Light experience with the brand-new Legend system, improved visuals, major gameplay enhancements, and more."

And that's a wrap!

This week I've mostly been enamored with an upcoming ID@Xbox title named The Flame in the Flood, launching on February 24th, 2016 for Xbox One. The Flame in the Flood's developer, The Molasses Flood is comprised of ex-Halo and Bioshock devs, and they gave me permission to discuss some of my experiences on this week's OneCast which should go live tomorrow right over here.

What have you guys been playing this week? Join this week's Xbox news discussion for a chance to win a digital code for Dying Light: The Following Enhanced Edition for Xbox One!

Jez Corden
Jez Corden
Co-Managing Editor

Jez Corden a Managing Editor at Windows Central, focusing primarily on all things Xbox and gaming. Jez is known for breaking exclusive news and analysis as relates to the Microsoft ecosystem while being powered by caffeine. Follow on Twitter @JezCorden and listen to his Xbox Two podcast, all about, you guessed it, Xbox!

155 Comments
  • C'mon Quantum Break been waiting for you lol Posted via the Windows Central App for Nexus 5x
  • QB coming to Windows 10 shouldn't be that big of a deal guys.
  • It is a big deal! It's a great thing, showing the future of Xbox as a multi-device platform. Cross-buy and cross-sync, via Xbox Live, allowing gamers to play Quantum Break across any compatible Xbox device (Xbox One consoles and Windows 10 computers) is an exciting future for Xbox.
  • Agreed. The internet butthurt over this is entirely unnecessary.
  • Yeah, I think it's just been a slow news week.
  • I wouldn't ​worry too much about pc gaming imo. Console will always be around for the gamers who cannot afford high spec and expensive rigs. Each to their own and all that. Gamers unite :) ​ ​
  • Well, to be fair, you can make PC happen on a comparable level for the same price or less, if you are so inclined. It's just that laziness usually wins out.
  • With just 350 bucks? I'm intrigued Keith.
  • Well, $350 isn't the true cost. You have to throw on the price of LIVE, though PC online is free. You wouldn't be at $350, but you could probably get sub-$500 with something comparable, and the gaming library and long-term software savings would definitely make them comaprable. It's just a tough thing to do on a whim, whichking combo prices and the like. Where it really wins out is if you're someone willing to try Linux, or if you're someone who can get the OS for free, or reuse it (both true for me). Because I wouldn't have to pay for the OS, $350 would be within the realm of possibility, for hardware alone.
  • @$350? Lol, how old are the parts? :P
    Anyone can reuse a windows license be it a OEI or not using sysprep (7 and above). But you may have to reactivate over the phone if the motherboard is changed.
  • Well, you're talking about matching a console that was using mediocre parts when it launched almost 2.5 years ago. The GPU in the XB1 is considered on-par with a Radeon HD 7790, which launched in March of 2013 at a $150 price point. It's just not a strong part. And the CPU is just a pile of crap, no two ways about it. It's got a budget-class HDD (5400 RPM), and I'm guessing the RAM isn't highly clocked, either. On the whole, it launched with basically mid-range parts or lower. 2+ years later, matching the power is quite easy. Grabbing something like a 1- or 2-year AMD APU should be a good start, and just go mini-ITX from thre.
  • Yea, I don't really get the "building a gaming rig is much more expensive" argument. It's not expensive to match console hardware. And especially true in the lower end is that every (insert currency here) you go over, brings noticeable improvements
  • It's not just expense, but convenience.
  • Well, it usually is. The time to get things going is a definite cost, and if a part is DoA, it's a potential nightmare. However, consolidating devices is always a plus, so throwing in a better CPU and/or GPU with a planned purchase for a home PC, you can save money vs. buying a lower-end PC and a console.
  • Well, I'm not an expert on the subject, but I think you can't just compare the console hardware with a PC, look at the minimum requirements for QB. As you say the XB1 hardware don't quite compare to that.
  • It also won't be the same experience. It will undoubtedly look better on PC. Some is probably a mix of console optimizations and time for development on each platform, but at the same time, you can't just give credit to the console for being cheaper when the reasoning is it's functionally inferior and more restrictive, which can bother people.
  • Maybe (it's impossible to notice for me). But about the price, I don't think you can buy a 350 PC and run QB on it.
  • And you can't buy any price XB1 and play it at 4K.
  • I'm sorry, we're losing the subject here. You said we can "make PC happen on a comparable level for the same price or less". So, comparing the price and the quality level of the XB1, I don't think you can't buy a comparable 350 PC. With this price I can run a QB game and Tomb Raider, can you run these games on a 350 PC?
  • And no, it's not the same thing. I said you can build a PC of comparable power to the XB1 for a comparable price. If a developer's unoptimized work doesn't run as well on a PC, that's on the developer, not me. And, as I've already stated, $350 is a flat-out lie of a price. You're going to have to add in batteries for the controller ($20-25), Xbox LIVE ($30-60), and probably an additional storage device ($50-150), since that 500-GB drive is actually about 360 GB, and if QB is the same 55 GB on XB1 as PC, that's over 15% of your storage right there. But like I said, it's something I could definitely do. My PC is just a GPU away from playing QB--it's fairly high-end in every other part, but the formerly high-end GPU I have is now about 6 years old and needs replaced for gaming (but since I don't really want to play games on my PC, I don't buy a new card). As for a full build, I could definitely do it because I don't have to pay for a W10 license (I get it free from my school), meaning that's another $75-100 I can dump into the GPU purchase. Your complaining about playing QB for $350 isn't the matter of discussion, either. If I build a $350 PC, it can play a lot more games the XB1 can't because Steam offers thousands more games than the Xbox Store. But the question was of building a PC of comparable power, and that QB's requirements on PC are well above what the XB1 could ever dream of being is not the question.
  • All this arguing over consoles vs pcs. Let me boil it down for you guys: Consoles offer a more consistent experience with far less effort by the end user. It's easier on developers as well. Consoles are powerful enough to push ~1080p gaming at acceptable levels for their target display (tvs). Cost is a bit cheaper or at worst comparable to similarly spec'd pc hardware with accessories. PCs offer more flexibility and higher performance in exchange for higher costs, more complex management, and more work for developers. You also have the potential for cheaper software costs, but that is not as big as it use to be.
  • Looking forward to The Division, if only because so little is coming out at the moment.
  • Quantum Break. The game where you have to slingshot around the sun, go back in time to rescue some humpback whales. Or something like that...
  • Wait. What?
  • Lol!
  • Uh oh, Star Trek IV reference spotted. :-)
  • Let me win, one time...
  • Quantum break pre order gives me Alan wake plus the DLC and American nightmare and to top that off I get the windows 10 version for free. This is an amazing deal.
  • Isn't that only for the console version pre-order?
  • Can't wait to play rocket league!
  • I want dying Light
  • The cross-buy and cross-play of Quantum Break is incredible! Everyone has a chance to play this amazing game now :)
  • I feel like this will be the new norm for games starting in 2016. Games will launch on Xbox one and PC simultaneously. Can't hurt either party really. I like where this universal platform is headed!
  • Man, I'd be stoked to get Dying Light. I actually went to check for it at Best Buy yesterday, and they don't have it in-stock. This would definitely trump waiting to buy it when the store gets it. As for the other news: QB: I'm really intrigued by this game. I'm not sure how I'll fit it in with The Division's release a months before and DOOM's release 7 weeks after, but I definitely want to go after it. I'm not sure if I'd want to do the digital pre-order (mostly as symbolic support of the cross-buy strategy), if I want to get it cheapre with Best Buy's GCU, or if I want to get the GameStop-exclusive steelbook (which looks awesome). It's a very intriguing game, and after Defiance kind of fell flat with its two-way media release, Remedy's alternative route will be cool to check out. The excuse for not announcing the W10 version is weak. They still don't have Gears Ultimate out on PC, do they? Does it even have a release date? What about Killer Instinct, also pegged for a PC release? That said, doing it isn't a big deal. It might drag some folks from the XB1. It might also get W10 adoption rates higher, give the Windows Store a bit of traction against Steam, and get developer interest in apps (meaning W10 and W10M) higher. RL: I think this is a game that really needs a demo. I'm not sure if I'd be into it, and while $20 isn't a big investment, I'm not dying to get it without trying it. A demo would get friends the chance to give it a whirl, and then groups could buy and play together with more confidence in the community. The Division: I'm still excited for this, but I'm also not sure about it. The MMO setting will be disappointing, if it's got shallow RPG elements that lead to just PvP everywhere. Traditional PvE content (dungeons/raids) will be needed, IMO, and it'd be nice if they had other elements from the genre (motorcycle/cars as "mounts," for example). It's a very well-made game, and I loved the beta. It looks great, and the gunplay is awesome. I just don't know about how its endgame will go over, nor am I sure how I feel about its lack of difficulty in the beta (even the story mission on "Hard" was somewhat easy). Still, I'm looking at grabbing it at launch, and I have it pre-ordered. WD2: I probably liked Watch_Dogs more than others. As someone who doesn't like the GTA formula much, I think WD did it better. The driving is still the weak spot of such games, but its story (while far from great) was much better than what I saw in GTA V, and the potential for spreading the story out nationally (and internationally) is intriguing, same as how cultural examination in Assassin's Creed can interest folks.
  • I think the best thing about core PC titles hitting the Windows 10 Store is that it'll Microsoft some incentive to add some of the Steam-like quality of life improvements, like... basic things, seeing your DL speed etc. I'll make sure we have a comprehensive review on Rocket League, anything in particular you'd like to see explained/covered? Division PVP is quarantined (literally) into a single part of the map, so don't expect PVP everywhere. Traditional dungeons are in, raids are heavily rumored. Agreed on vehicles, would add flavour. Agreed on difficulty too, but it was the first mission. I also really enjoyed Watch Dogs, I didn't buy into the hype train which I think derailed how some felt about it. Your comments are always thoughtful, cheers.
  • Nah, it's just a question of whether I'd find the gameplay of Rocket League enjoyable. I hear good things, but I look at it a bit sideways. I don't know that it woudl suit me, and demos are good at sorting such matters. As for The Division, I kind of wish another MMO did the WoW-like PvP, where it can happen in leveling zones. That it's locked to specific play in it and Neverwinter makes the world a little boring, in some respects. I'm guessing some other PC-based ones have it, but WoW (which isn't a fair comparison becuase it's had a decade to grow) has a lot more KINDS of PvP that make it interesting. Group encounters will be interesting to experience, because I'd hate them to be like story missions. IF it's just waves of enemies for a while, htat's lame. I'm not too sure how they avoid breaking the realism while giving you interesting fight mechanics, but I'm all for finding out!
  • Was watch dogs really good enough to merit a second? I tried to get into it but it just didn't flow for me... Gameplay was clunky and the story seemed immature.
  • Loved it... But I wanted to be able to use the baton on command, free roam
  • It had great multiplayer
  • I loved the MP, I hope they expand on it in the sequel. Great ideas.
  • I loved it. The specifics of the story weren't great, but the overall concept was fantastic. One of my favorite games in years....though I did have to wait a few months for SLI to not stutter. The division beta has given me confidence in Ubisoft again
  • If GTA can have, like, 10 releases by throwing a bunch of mediocre things into a pot, then Watch_Dogs deserves a sequel. Worse games have gotten sequels, and better ones haven't. I think it's a game that showed potential, and having a CoD-style development trade-off between W_D and AC would be a nice way to keep both franchises (which are allegedly in the same universe) from going stale.
  • I can't wait for Quantum Break and its cool all the things you're getting for free if you preorder Posted via the Windows Central App for Android
  • Agreed.  I'm really looking forward to playing it.
  • Qb is about to be the best new IP since Alan Wake
  • Agree qb looks great, loved Alan Wake.
  • Fyi cross play between pc/xbox is suppose to be happening. In fact I think the new fable game starts it.
  • Yeah, but they're never going to force it in competitive shooters.
  • I didn't even know it had multiplayer or co-op.
  • Aye, Fable Legends has co-op, think of it as a fantasy Left 4 Dead. The difference is that an invading player can act as the villain, spawning enemies and traps and blockades to prevent the co-op players advances. Of course it can still be played single player or just against a CPU too.
  • No, I mean I didn't know QB had it, which is what he was alleging, I think.
  • the division, cant make up my mind whether i liked that beta or not, give the next beta a try n see how i feel, im lukewarm just now!!     Cannot wait for quantum break, it looks phenomenal. Not interested in rocket league, and i like driving and football, but this just doesnt do it for me.  Dont think ms have given up on xbox, just trying to make more money, why would they quit xbox when theyve sold so many, worth way too much money to them.  Watch dogs 2 im on board, legit enjoyed the first one, cannot hnderstand the hate it gets! Yeh its no gta but neither is most games!!    
  • It's hard to see why you'd like QB, but not The Division unless it's just the sci-fi elements that intrigue. The Division is visually fantastic, and its core gameplay feels very strong. It's like Destiny's polish meets a world that isn't condensed, full of loading, and boring to look at.
  • The division looks great can't wait to play and cross platform is awesome.
  • All aboard for The Division, paid mine off a couple of days ago. Thank goodness for game sharing, love being able to play these games with my wife without having to pony up for two copies. Keeps the head sane and the pockets from going bare.
  • Can't wait until Quantum Break relaase!
  • cross plaform is great, pre ordered mine.
  • Can I download The Division beta already? (I want Dying Light Jez).
  • I think they'll let people pre-load the open beta ahead of its launch. We'll get a link up for then.
  • Quantum Break looks pretty cool.
  • Anyone else think QB character looks like Blake Shelton?
  • Nope, I think he looks like a character from Warehouse 13, who was played by the guy's twin brother.
  • I think, in fact Quantum break is a hell of a deal for XB1 users. U get the free PC version plus 2 Alan wake BC titles if you pre-order it! How this can be considered bad by some folks is beyond me!
  • I have heard so much about dying light.... Really eager try it out
  • "We weren't sure when and how we would be able to get the Windows 10 version done exactly. They lined up, so now a lot of people were like "hey, I get it, you wanna bring this to a lot more gamers to play, but why didn't you tell about this before?" Well, we didn't know we could do this before."   Why didn't Microsoft tell us when they knew the game was being worked on for the PC rather than keeping up the tale that it was only going to be on the Xbox One? What didn't they know they could do before? Is he really saying they didn't know if they could run a game, that they knew could run on an Xbox One, on the PC?  Exactly when was development for the PC version of Quantum Break started?  
  • @Nettrick Nowan, well both the X1 and PS4 use custom x64/x86 jaguar chips sooo PC development started when the x1 development started :P.
  • I guess they wanted to make sure the Xbox integrated Windows 10 features would be live and fully functioning before they announced it. Rise of the Tomb Raider revealed that the Windows 10 Store can't display the download bar properly for something that's over like 10gb, think the store/xbox features on W10 were the main deciding factor in delaying the announcement.
  • I think as late as August 2015, Spencer said Quantum Break on the PC wasn't even being worked on--six months later, here we are. Six months. And, apparently that same concern was not in play with Rise of the Tomb Raider if the timing of the announcement is being considered. I say again, six months.
  • I like what's happening with Quantum Break. Not so applicable for me though, since it won't run on my surface pro 3 lol.
  • I kinda hope the SP5 will have some kinda thunderbolt connector with an optional d-GPU dock, like the Razer Blade Stealth, that thing looks crazy good.
  • Considering there's around 30 million steam gamers on windows 10, having such a high profile game crossbuy on preorder is a great move. I wish they'd bring older xbox one exclusives, and even 360 games to windows 10 too. I think it would be a fantastic move!
  • @nekowhizz, ooh backwards compatibility via the store would be pretty darn cool.
  • With Quantum Break, The Division, Far Cry Primal, PvZ: GW2 all pre-loaded my wallet is empty :D
  • Quantum Break looks really good, people are just crazy. A free PC copy for buying it on Xbox, what's not to love.
  • What sort of people thought the PC version of Quantum Break would diminish the Xbox. Are you kidding me. Lots of games on console come out for PC. Can we get the names of those who even thought that so we can slap each one.. J/k on the slapping, but really. Who would have thought that. Who is scared about cross play with mouse and keyboard players. Get real people. Don't get in the way of innovation. Get out of the way..
  • I'm pleased for qb getting cross release. Hopefully this is the first of many. Microsoft still need to keep some console exclusives though. Halo should always be the boxes baby.
  • Despite all the wailing from some corners about how this and other games will damage the Xbox because ....reasons I'm not entirely sure on myself, I'm a PC gamer and I'm still buying an Xbox One in the next week or two.  This means either I'm a stark raving mad, PC master race betraying lunatic jumping on a burning ship, or I'm a platform agnostic consumer who wants a budget gaming and media hub thats easy for my girlfriend and I to use in the living room and finds the idea of not having to choose between the PC and console version of a game greatly endearing.  Personally I'm leaning towards the latter. Also, winning the Dying Light expansion would be an awesome start to Xbox ownership.
  • I'm a casual PC gamer who has a xbox 1. I'm hoping alot more titles utilise cross sync. Cross buy + cross play obviously depends on the publisher / developers. So for cross sync to be utilised, titles will need to be released on both the PC and Xbox. Sony is really missing out here by not offering a psn equivalent for PCs imo. It would do wonders for their profit margins as after all both x1 and ps4 use custom jaguar chips.
  • I'm sick of purchases being tied to a single storefront or platform, so I welcome cross-platform purchasing. I won't be playing Quantum Break though. The Division looks really boring now that I've seen the gameplay. Looks like third person Destiny, so I'll pass on that as well unless I can get it for free or at a big discount. 
  • At&t tried to monopolize the airwaves and digital age and failed...looks like Microsoft will soon have access to all of us!!! Their Cross platform operating system will rule all...androids will be the alternative eventually...subpar OS...windows will be the accepted on all platforms!
  • Cross buy for Quantum Break is a great idea, and may get a few PC gamers to try the Xbox one. Looking forward to playing the open beta of The Division.
  • same
  • Can't wait for the division
  • Been playing forza horizon 2 and gta 5 with the new update
  • I wish Rocket League was a free Xbox Live Games With Gold offer in its first month like it was for PS+.
  • Yeah me too.  Xbox users getting it late and then charged $19.99 for it.  It will go on sale eventually but I don't think they will be adding it to games with gold.  Going to pass on it for now.  Other games coming out I can put that $19.99 towards.
  • would be awesome to win this, never played it!
  • If it is good for MS it is good for gamers. The more they make on the games means the bigger budget they will get from corporate. Bigger budget means more first party and bigger better games. Happy camper right here.
  • Playing Unravel, ROTR, and Lego Avengers. Looking forward to rocket league
  • Good luck to all!
  • I admit, I'm guilty of being skeptical of PC/XB releases instead of XB only. I've got a different outlook now. Several things stand out to me. 1. XB live will we used by more than just XB owners. Diversifying their reach. 2. Developers and XB make more money. Money to be used to make XB better and expand existing and new franchises. 3. Developers will be more willing to make PC/XB exclusive games than PS4 only exclusive games. Granted the PS4 does release a few on PC, it's leaning more on the XB. Developers can simply make more $ with XB/PC. 4. The XB is becoming THE console for gamers. They're reaching out and welcoming everyone to share the love. I feel #3 is something people are overlooking that could dramatically shift console dynamics. Thoughts?
  • Much of this is to drive traffic to the Windows store and soon the XBox store will be integrated into one store for everything on a Microsoft platform. All those eyes will hopefully be the draw for developers. Much like Walmart hopes the guy running in for milk will also pick up stuff he sees on a shelf, developers may pick up downloads from folks going to brows for an XBox game but run accross a productivity or entertainment app for thier PC /tablet/phone.
  • @Smoothdog, it's another major selling point to get a xbox live sub. Sony is really missing out on alot of profit by not having a psn equivalent imo.
  • The downside is there might be some kind of consumer disappointment with XBL. If PC players play online for free, the XB1 people will be jealous and annoyed. If XBL play on PCs is behind a paywall, the PC community that is used to free online will shun the platform.
  • Good point Keith. I'll be curious how Microsoft handles that.
  • Cannot wait for the quantum break
    Thanks for the sharing a game.
  • this week i was playing roblox and gems of war, looking forward to more cross buy games
  • Once again trying to win...
  • Would love to play with keyboard and mouse on the Xbox One !
  • I just hope Quantum Break doesn't disappoint. Also looking forward to WD2.
  • Crossbuy is always great!
  • I'm probably going to get flamed as not a real gamer for this, but I don't understand the angst about the Quantum Break release. Since Xbox is running a version of Win 10 it seems to me it would be a waste of perfectly good IP to not take advantage of both platforms. Consol and PC gaming are two completely different animals and I think Microsoft is smart enough to now pitting PC gamers against consol gamers would be unfair and a process nightmare, That said it does seem like a good thing to make the game available to the, I believe, small minority that would play on both systems. I'm pretty sure there are those who would play on PC sometimes and console sometimes depending on what thier friends are doing. Much like Minecraft. How it diminishes XBox I don't get since the PC is a completely different platform. If they back tracked and came out with a PS4 version I would see the angst.
  • @todd7900, i'm sure they will give gamers a choice when matchmaking. Whether to include all gamers (including mouse and keyboard), just console or gamers using controllers only. For instance when joining a lobby you are tied to the pre-defined input rule That would be the best way imo; otherwise the implementation would be tricky.
  • Maybe, but it sounds more like they will be completely separate. Kind of like Minecraft on XBox One, Windows 10, and Xbox 360, are all separate and can't play with each other, even though achievements and progression can be seen through XBox Live.
  • Please don't let the Light Die on Me
  • Luck favors you today Kenzibit! You won!
  • Haaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!! What? OMG!!! Thanks a lot Jez and the team, this is awesome and just brightened up my boring day. Woohoo :)
  • I'm not sure how I feel about Quantum Break for PC... I don't even know if I care about "console exclusivity" anymore. I'd rather have both consoles and play the heck I want wherever I want :)
    About Dying Light, I kinda NEED that game cause I'm hesitant to buy it and can't decide if I really should spend that money! As a gift, on the other hand... :)
  • Can't wait for Quantum Break
  • I want more Xbox One games to Windows 10 Store. It would be great if the whole Xbox One is imported to Windows 10. I am giving a luck to try to win Dying Light: The Following Enhanced Edition for my Xbox One.
  • I have no problem with QB being released on PC. The more people that get to play it the better.  This is good for Microsoft also. Don't get why some people get so upset over it. 
  • Quantum Break looks super cool. Been wanting to play Dying Light for a while now, I've heard nothing but good things about it.
  • Can't wait for all 3 of those games. The Division beta was a lot of fun when I found some people to play with in the dark zone. Quantum Break looks unique, excited to see how that turns out. I've heard so much about Rocket League lately that I hope it lives up to the hype! With that said...hope I win dying light! Been on the fence about it. Posted via the Windows Central App for Android
  • Quantum Break looks phenomenal, and that deal is terrific. I was surprised when they announced PC version, but I'm kinda okay with it. Let's see if it's windows store exclusive.
  • I would love to have dying light good luck and good night!
  • Quantum break being a cross platform purchase is finally signaling the future of gaming. When so many games are released on different platforms, it makes since that if they essentially run same OS, it should be cross plat. Now, that being said, I doubt many people will play this game on both xbox one and PC but it's still an awesome idea. Posted via the Windows Central App for Android
  • I can't afford the Quantum Break yet. I totally plan on buying it. With Remedy they can do no wrong.
  • I m waiting watchdogs 2. Quantum break , in my Xbox one, in w 10, the best for my laptop.
  • It's great that qb is on pc hope they do it with a lot more big titles
  • I'm excited for quantum break. Posted via the Windows Central App for Android
  • I'm glad you include the ICYMI section. The article Jez wrote about Xbox following Nintendo what great! I higher recommend everyone read it.
    I'm curious about The Division and Rocket League. I'm not sold yet, but I'm watching.
  • Thanks dude :)
  • I second it! Also, can't wait for the next OneCast episode.
  • I've been eyeing Quantum Break and The Division ever since they were announced a few years back. I have never been this excited for a winter/spring line up of games.
  • I'm not quite sure how The Division is actually going to become a series. As far as I can see, it looks more like a standalone game than the beginnings of a franchise. It is published by Ubisoft though, so I can see the title going on to have miltiple sequals, but it still seems ulikely. Personally, I don't mind Quantum Break being on Windows 10. There's a distinct difference between the game being sold on Microsoft's own store and being able to buy it anywhere, and Microsoft is placing Quantum Break on the former path. This way, it's still an Xbox One experiance, especially if Microsft makes cross-buy available to everyone, not just to those who pre-order. It's not hurting the console in any way; in fact, it just gives players a taste of Xbox and pursuades them to buy more.
  • I'm glad Ubisoft is taking a year off from Assassin's Creed. Ever since AC II; AC has been one of my favorite franchises. I think I've pre-ordered every one of them except AC IV: BF (because it was cross-generation and I wasn't sure which to get; plus I was extremely disappointed by AC III.), and AC: U (because I didn't have an Xbox One yet). But the reason I'm glad is because Ubisoft needs time to realize that what makes AC so unique and great is it's particular use of history, historical characters, and historical setting as a foil for everything gamers expect from a AAA franchise. It's not enough to just pick a time in history, fill it with recognizable faces, and have historically accurate dress, architecture, etc. It has to make sense as an assassin game and provide that sense of wonder & grandeur that only history can provide. Going back to Egypt is a perfect opportunity to rediscover what makes history a unique tool for the series beyond just a cool place to be. While AC IV: BF & AC Rogue where arguably the best in the series since AC II, it didn't make much sense to have assassins running around pirate ships.
  • I want quantum break. Posted via the Windows Central App for Android
  • Where's the discussion for the competition? Count me in please
  • Right here buddy.
  • so who won? I'm guessing not me cause I didnt get any email :(
  • QB will be a good game imo...looking forward to play it...
  • Fear the living dead!
  • MS idea of a combined platform for release of their games gives us an idea where they are headed with their next console. I can see the architecture coming closer to PC design next gen, with the option to build your own or go with MS bespoke solution
    It's an exciting future that changes the playing field for gaming.
    P.S. Hope Im not too late to be entered for a chance to win Dying Light?
  • Crossbuy is a no brainer. I don't mind paying slightly more for a title to get two versions. Epic sauce!
  • Can't wait for Rocket League
  • Can't wait for the 18th to play some more of the division
  • Hoping for a win!
  • News upon news upon news. Microsoft just keep giving (gamers) the greatest news whether it's on Xbox or PC. I have both and benefit from both platforms. Keep on giving me the chance to experience these new games either with my Xbox friends as well as my PC friends. Great job Microsoft. :) Posted via the Windows Central App for Android
  • I will play rocket league so much hoping that they will bring so much content to it!
  • So many games to look forward to.
  • I can't wait for quantum break. It doesn't matter matter to me that it will be available on PC as well. As long as I can play it on my Xbox, I'm okay. Posted via the Windows Central App for Android
  • Fingers crossed for Dying Light!!!
  • Dying Light for the win!
  • Great to see the cross platform, love the concept and possibilities. Posted via the Windows Central App for Android
  • Sold on Quantum Break. :) I think it is a great idea to implement cross buy between Windows and Xbox. 
  • Quantum Break looks so good! That's for later though. Rocket League in 2 days. Can't wait! Was kinda hoping they'd allow cross-play between PC and Xbox One, but oh well. Maybe in the future :)
  • Quantum Break seems very nice.  I hope to win the Dying Light contest!
  • All these benefits and I'm still buying Quantum Break on disc. You'll Never convert me! The day I can't have boxes to display is the day I stop buying games!
  • I have to assume that anyone objecting to QB coming to PC is an 8 year old. This is a good thing guys. Posted via the Windows Central App for Android
  • It's too bad that the UWP is not very good for PC gaming at the moment. Rise of the Tomb Raider from the Windows Store has so many limitations compared to the same game from Steam.
  • I'm tentatively excited about Quantum Break if that's a thing. I didn't enjoy any of the Unchharted games and this one seems to be of a similar ilk. Yes the games had polish but it was poorly written in my opinion. Like when this professsional thief risked his life to save a woman he literally just met in  the first game. I guess I expect more from a game or franchise that is supposed to be the one of the best judging from all the awards it receives.
  • So excited for Rockeet League!
  • Did I win the giveaway? haha
  • So who won the prize?? O.o
  • So no one won?