How-To Geek - Xbox

Customize Your Xbox, PS5 or Switch Console with Wraps, Stickers and More

Tim Brookes — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 16:01:29 GMT

Tired of the boring black or white box under your TV? Here’s how to make it stand out without buying a new pricey limited edition console.

Could Intel Return to the Console Business?

Sydney Butler — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 11:00:27 GMT

With the exception of the ARM-based Nintendo Switch, the console market is entirely based on AMD CPU and GPU technology. Consoles represent a huge chip market, so isn't it strange that a major semiconductor company like Intel is a no-show?

How to Use Discord on Xbox

Tim Brookes — Sat, 02 Sep 2023 12:01:27 GMT

Discord isn’t just for PC gamers anymore. You can now use it on both Sony and Microsoft consoles, where it makes an excellent alternative to in-game chat for chatting, gaming, and passing the time.

Microsoft is Shutting Down the Xbox 360 Store

Arol Wright — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 13:58:28 GMT

It's really hard to believe, but the Xbox 360 has been around for almost two decades now. Microsoft's entry in the seventh console generation came out in 2005, 18 years ago as of the time of writing. Since then, a successor, the Xbox One, came out in 2013, and successors to that successor, the Xbox Series X and Series S, came out in 2020. Still, that console was so popular that it's still used a fair bit today, and Microsoft has kept its online store around. Until now, anywya.

Do You Need a Streaming Stick If You Own an Xbox or PlayStation?

Andrew Heinzman — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Cheap streaming sticks like the Roku Premiere or the Chromecast with Google TV provide instant access to Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and all of your other favorite platforms. But if you own an Xbox or PlayStation, is there any reason to buy a dedicated streaming stick? Here's what you're missing out on if you stream everything through a game console.

Microsoft Now Sells Replacement Parts for Xbox Controllers

Andrew Heinzman — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 17:19:34 GMT

In recent years, Microsoft has come out as an unexpected advocate for device repairability. The company put its money behind a Right to Repair study, began creating more repairable laptops, and solidified a partnership with iFixit. Today, this mentality extends to the Xbox controller.

6 Signs You Need to Upgrade to an Xbox Series X

Shannon Flynn — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 11:45:08 GMT

If you've been gaming on the Xbox Series S, you might be wondering whether it's time to upgrade to the Series X. Buying a new console is an investment, so we're here to help you spend your money wisely. We'll list all the reasons it might be time to upgrade to the Xbox Series X after all.

Optimize Your Xbox or PS5: Performance, Quality, and Resolution Mode

Tim Brookes — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 12:01:21 GMT

On modern consoles, you'll find options for fine-tuning fidelity and frame rate. They first appeared in the PS4 and Xbox One era, but they're now commonplace on PS5 and Xbox Series consoles. Here's how you can tell which is best for you.

Who Is Winning the 21st Century Console Wars?

Dave McQuilling — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 11:45:37 GMT

If you've paid even the slightest bit of attention to gaming over the past few decades, you're probably aware of the "Console Wars." These wars essentially center on the biggest gaming companies at the time going all out to get the edge over one another and secure the biggest market share. But who is winning the 21st century console wars?

You Can (Once Again) Get Game Pass Ultimate for $1

Arol Wright — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 15:55:11 GMT

Microsoft's Game Pass Ultimate subscription gives you access to many PC and Xbox games for one monthly cost, and the company used to offer a one-month trial for just $1. Thankfully, that offer has returned.

Do the Xbox, PS5, and Switch Support Ultrawide Screens?

Sydney Butler — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 16:00:17 GMT

Are you considering an ultrawide screen for your gaming setup? Before you splurge, understand how popular consoles like the Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch handle this increasingly popular screen format, and whether you're truly set to enjoy the ultrawide experience.

How to Play Xbox Games on Your PC

Reyadh Rahaman — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 15:00:00 GMT

You can now play many Xbox games on your PC without owning an Xbox console. All you need is the Xbox app and an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. You can also buy some Xbox apps that have been ported to PC---or try an emulator.

How to Stop Your Xbox From Overheating

Tim Brookes — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 12:00:47 GMT

When you're playing your Xbox you want to enjoy hot new titles, not a too-hot console. Here are some tips for reducing thermal buildup in your overheating Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S.

Does Your Xbox or PlayStation Need a Cooling Fan?

Sydney Butler — Sun, 21 May 2023 08:00:41 GMT

The last thing you want is your gaming marathon cut short by a console that's too hot to handle. You might even be considering buying one of those aftermarket cooling fans to keep things chill, but is it really necessary?

How the Xbox Adaptive Controller Can Help Gamers With Disabilities

Reyadh Rahaman — Sat, 22 Apr 2023 13:00:41 GMT

Most gaming controllers are built for people without disabilities. However, in the U.S., 26% of people have some sort of disability. This means that many gamers can't use standard controllers to play video games comfortably---or at all. Thankfully, there are some other options for them.

What Is the Xbox Streaming Stick, and When Will It Be Released?

Reyadh Rahaman — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 11:00:43 GMT

News on the Xbox Streaming Stick has been rather scant as of late. Xbox might have benched this project in favor of others. With that said, let's take a look at the available information about the Xbox Streaming Stick and see what it can teach us about the future of Xbox gaming.

How to Emulate Xbox 360 Games on Your Steam Deck

Goran Damnjanovic — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 12:00:41 GMT

Want to play Xbox 360 games on your Steam Deck? It's possible with Xenia, the best Xbox 360 emulator out there. You can run it on both SteamOS and Windows on your Deck, and here's how to get started.

10 Awesome Xbox Series X|S Features You Should Be Using

Tim Brookes — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 17:30:00 GMT

Have you finally gotten your hands on an Xbox Series X or S? There's a lot packed into this Microsoft gaming console, so let's take a look at the features that will help you make the most of all your new console has to offer.

You Can't Get PC or Xbox Game Pass for $1 Anymore

Arol Wright — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 11:47:32 GMT

For years, Microsoft offered a 1-month trial to Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass for the low price of $1. It was a great way to try some games on your Xbox console or gaming PC for a while without spending a lot of money, but now it's sadly going away.

How to Share Xbox Game Pass With Multiple Consoles

Tim Brookes — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Game Pass is Microsoft's all-you-can-eat gaming subscription which allows you to play over 100 games for a flat fee each month. If you pay for Game Pass you can share it between two consoles, and even play the same game on both at the same time.

The Xbox Controller Has a New Green Color, Still Works on PC

Arol Wright — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 11:04:50 GMT

The current Xbox gamepad is one of the best gaming controllers, thanks to its comfort, great buttons, and extra compatibility with PCs. Now, you can get one in a new super-green color.

Xbox Game Pass: How It Works, Cost, and Games List

Chris Hoffman — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Xbox Game Pass is an increasingly popular subscription service, giving you access to a massive collection of games and connected services for one monthly fee. Xbox Game Pass works on Windows 10 and Windows 11 PCs as well as Xbox consoles like the Xbox Series X and Xbox One.

Xbox Software Update Aims to Save Money on Your Power Bill

Corbin Davenport — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 11:26:39 GMT

Most modern game consoles have some level of always-on functionality, allowing them to download critical game and software updates in the background. Microsoft is rolling out an Xbox update that aims to make always-on connectivity less expensive.

Why You Should Get an Xbox Controller for PC Gaming

Chris Hoffman — Sun, 05 Feb 2023 12:00:00 GMT

The Xbox controller is still the best controller for PC gaming. If you game on a Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC, you should have one. Here's why we recommend an Xbox controller instead of a PS5 DualSense controller or another third-party option.

You Can Play 'GoldenEye 007' Without an Xbox or Switch

Cory Gunther — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 16:12:59 GMT

One of the most-beloved Nintendo 64 games is now officially available on the Switch and Xbox. Of course, I'm talking about GoldenEye 007. And thanks to Xbox Game Pass and Cloud Gaming, you can play it from a PC, iPad, Android, and more.

Microsoft Is Kicking off a New Way to Play Games

Corbin Davenport — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 11:12:39 GMT

Microsoft has offered Game Pass for years as a monthly subscription with popular games, accessible through PC, Xbox, and even cloud streaming. However, Microsoft is now switching up the formula with the release of Hi-Fi Rush.

Why You Should Give Fortnite a Shot (Again)

Tim Brookes — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 08:00:37 GMT

It's been a few years since the world lost its collective mind over the Fortnite craze, but the game has shown little signs of slowing down. If you haven't tried the game before, or you put it down a while ago, now might be the time to jump back in.

Got a New Xbox Series X or S? 11 Tips for Getting Started

Tim Brookes — Sun, 25 Dec 2022 17:00:00 GMT

Microsoft's Xbox Series X and S are some of the best consoles ever made. You probably have some idea of which games you'll be playing on your new console, but here's a list of things to remember (and try out) as you get acquainted.

Get Ready for More $70 Video Games

Corbin Davenport — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 10:57:43 GMT

Over the past few years, larger games for PC and consoles have been creeping up in price to $70, a significant jump from previous standard price of around $60. Unfortunately, that trend isn't going away.

Microsoft Now Sells Tiny Hoodies for Cold Xbox Controllers

Chason Gordon — Thu, 01 Dec 2022 13:34:25 GMT

People make up all sorts up excuses as to why they just lost a video game to their friend: sometimes they don't know how to play, claim the controller isn't working, or that they're friend cheated. Who knew saying the controller is too cold was an option?

The Xbox 360 Controller Will Get an Official Modern Makeover

Arol Wright — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 16:52:57 GMT

Even today, the Xbox 360 controller is still fondly remembered by many. What would you think about a controller that accurately imitates its best qualities and works with modern Xbox consoles and PCs? That's exactly what Hyperkin is working on.

This Is Microsoft's Great Xbox Bundle Deal for the Holidays

Corbin Davenport — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 10:29:16 GMT

Tech companies are ramping up sales and promotions ahead of the busy holiday shopping season. The Xbox Series S is already an excellent value for anyone interested in console gaming, but now Microsoft is sweetening the deal.

How Much Worse Is the Xbox Series S, Really?

Sydney Butler — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 08:00:00 GMT

The Xbox Series S was a bold move by Microsoft, offering a next-generation console at an enticing price, at $200 below the Series X. But if you choose to spring for those savings, how much are you actually giving up?

Xbox Shelves 'Keystone' Cloud Gaming Dongle

Danny Chadwick — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 16:04:28 GMT

Microsoft delivered a major disappointment to fans of the emergent cloud gaming industry this week. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Xbox chief Phil Spencer stated that the company isn't moving forward with its cloud gaming dongle dubbed "Keystone."Gamers have anticipated an Xbox streaming stick for well over a year now. And there's been some confusing messagingÂ from the company along the way. So, it's nice to have some resolution regarding this particular device. Here's the relevant portion of the Journal interview via audio tweeted by The Verge senior editor Tom Warren:

Our Favorite Controller for PC Gaming Is Just $45 Today

Corbin Davenport — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 12:01:11 GMT

The Xbox Core Wireless Controller is designed for the latest Xbox Series X and S consoles, but it also works perfectly for gaming on Windows PCs. It's the top pick in our roundup of the best PC gaming controllers, and now it's on sale.

Do You Need Paddles on Your Game Controllers?

Tim Brookes — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Rear paddles are an increasingly common inclusion on game controllers, but they're not included on the controller that comes with your Xbox or PlayStation. So what's the big deal with paddles, and is it worth investing in a new controller to get access to them?

Xbox's Elite 2 Core Controller is Cheaper and Still Premium

Arol Wright — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 11:55:24 GMT

If you can afford them, Xbox's Elite controllers are an excellent upgrade from the standard Xbox controllers, due to their many pro-gamer-focused additions. The only problem with them is their price. If you can't throw almost $200 at a controller, maybe this new Core model would be better for you.

15 Video Games to Try If You Don't Play Games

Tim Brookes — Sun, 04 Sep 2022 11:00:09 GMT

Video games are more accessible and varied than ever, but it can be easy to dismiss the medium if you're not already familiar with it. Whether you start with a few mobile games or take the plunge and purchase a console like the Switch, there are plenty of good jumping-on points.

Microsoft's Game Pass Will Let You Share Your Subscription With Friends

Corbin Davenport — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 14:47:35 GMT

Microsoft's Game Pass is a subscription service that provides access to a library of popular Xbox and PC games at a fixed monthly price. While other streaming services are cramping down on sharing the same plan, Microsoft is just starting with sharing.

How to Change Your Xbox Gamertag on Any Xbox Platform

Tim Brookes — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 14:00:25 GMT

Did you register your Xbox gamertag in the days of the original Xbox or Xbox 360? Have you come to resent the handle you chose all those years ago? Don't worry, you can change your Gamertag using an Xbox, Windows PC, or on the web.

This New 8BitDo Controller Gives Switch Owners an Xbox-Like Experience

Andrew Heinzman — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 16:17:23 GMT

Have you ever wanted to use a big boy controller with your Nintendo Switch? Well, the new 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth gamepad might do the trick. It features an Xbox-like design with advanced customization and macros support, plus a charging dock.

Get Portal 2 & Four Other Games for Free on Xbox This September

Corbin Davenport — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Each month, Microsoft offers a few games to anyone with an Xbox Live Gold subscription, which is already required to play most online Xbox games. There are four free games for the month of September, including Portal 2.

8 Xbox Smartphone App Features You Don't Want to Miss Out On

Tim Brookes — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 11:00:30 GMT

There are a ton of great features hidden inside the Xbox app for iPhone and Android. To use these features you'll need to download the app for your platform of choice, then log in with the same credentials you use on your Xbox Series or Xbox One console.

How to Perform an Xbox Password Reset

Tim Brookes — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 14:00:47 GMT

You'll need a Microsoft account to use Xbox services, which means you'll need to know your login details to use any Xbox consoles you own. Here's how to reset your password if it's been a while since you last logged in.

Play Destiny 2, Two Other Games Free for a Limited Time

Corbin Davenport — Thu, 25 Aug 2022 15:14:40 GMT

There's no better price than free, and for a few days, you can play Destiny 2 and The Elder Scrolls Online on PC and consoles without paying a cent. One more game is also available for free to Xbox players.

The Best Xbox Game Pass Games in 2022

Jon Bitner — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 09:00:14 GMT

Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass is home to hundreds of titles, with newcomers added monthly. If you need help finding something new to play on your Xbox Series X, here are the best games on Xbox Game Pass in 2022.

Buy an Xbox Series S and Get a Free Game Up to $100

Andrew Heinzman — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 15:23:00 GMT

If you're in the market for an Xbox Series S, now's the time to pull out your wallet. Best Buy is offering a free game of your choice when you buy the Xbox Series S console---and yes, this includes new and expensive games like the $100 Forza Horizon 5 Premium.

More Wolfenstein and Quake Is Coming to PC Game Pass

Corbin Davenport — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 13:36:33 GMT

Xbox Game Pass is Microsoft's service that includes access to many PC and Xbox games for one low monthly price. Now you can play more classic PC games on Game Pass, starting today.

How to Connect an Xbox Controller to an Xbox

Tim Brookes — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 13:00:04 GMT

There are two ways of pairing a controller with an Xbox console. Xbox One and Xbox Series controllers are compatible with both generations of consoles, which means you can use your old controllers on your new console (and vice versa).

An All-Digital Future Is Bad News for Console Gamers, Here's Why

Sydney Butler — Sat, 06 Aug 2022 09:00:06 GMT

Most consoles ship with a disc drive, and you can buy physical games, but digital games are becoming the norm. This could spell trouble for console gamer's wallets, but there may be a few ways to avoid that future.

You Can Now Buy an Xbox Series X Console Without the Hunt

Chris Hoffman — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 10:00:43 GMT

It's been tough to get your hands on an Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5 console since their release in 2020. But, just like now is a great time to buy a GPU at its retail price, you should know Xbox Series X console availability has improved dramatically.

Can You Connect Bluetooth Headphones to the Xbox Series X|S?

Tim Brookes — Wed, 06 Jul 2022 21:00:00 GMT

Gaming headsets deliver immersive audio while allowing you to use your voice to communicate with other players. Wireless headsets offer a degree of freedom that wired ones can't match, but most require a dedicated USB dongle to ditch the cable.

The Best N64 Game, 'GoldenEye 007,' Could Get Remastered for Xbox

Cory Gunther — Sat, 11 Jun 2022 17:13:00 GMT

It's finally happening, maybe. A game that many consider the greatest ever made, GoldenEye 007, released in 1997 for the Nintendo 64, could get remastered for Xbox after years of fans requesting it.GoldenEye 007 was ahead of its time and still ranks as one of the best first-person shooter games of all time in my book. And while the graphics are pretty ridiculous compared to current-generation shooters, back then, it was epic.While we've heard rumors of a remake for what feels like a decade, plus all the fans begging, now we have some solid proof that it could happen. Yes, that's because Microsoft recently added the game's achievements to its official website, leading many on Twitter to speculate it'll get remastered and released for Xbox.

Microsoft's New Xbox TV App Is the Beginning of the End for Console Gaming

Andrew Heinzman — Thu, 09 Jun 2022 16:52:25 GMT

It's finally happening; Xbox Cloud Gaming is coming to smart TVs. Staring in late June, anyone with a Game Pass membership and a compatible TV can stream AAA games without additional hardware. This is Microsoft's most significant step toward the future of gaming, and for better or worse, it's the beginning of the end for the console era.

Amazon Opens a PS5 and Xbox Waiting List for Real People, Not Bots

Suzanne Humphries — Thu, 02 Jun 2022 16:39:36 GMT

In a (at this point, noble) effort to evade bots and scalpers, Amazon is creating a by-request waiting list for purchasing the highly sought after PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X gaming consoles after a recent restock. Users can request an invitation on the Amazon product page.

Microsoft's Xbox Streaming Stick Takes a Confusing Turn

Andrew Heinzman — Thu, 26 May 2022 20:37:34 GMT

It's been nearly a full year since Microsoft announced its plan to bring Xbox Cloud Gaming to smart TVs. And while I thought it'd be exciting to learn about the Xbox streaming stick, a new statement from Microsoft just leaves me confused. It's like I've forgotten how to read.

How to Update an Xbox Wireless Controller Using a PC

Pranay Parab — Sun, 15 May 2022 21:00:00 GMT

It's easy to update the Microsoft Wireless Controller (for Xbox Series X|S) using a Windows 10 PC. You'll just need to download a Microsoft app, plug in your controller, and follow the onscreen instructions. Here's how to do it.

Windows 11 is Adding a "Controller Bar" for Opening Games

Corbin Davenport — Fri, 06 May 2022 10:45:55 GMT

Xbox controllers are some of the best PC gaming controllers, thanks to their plug-and-play support in Windows and most games. Microsoft is now testing a new 'Controller bar' on Windows 11, which aims to make the experience even better.

PlayStation Plus vs. Xbox Game Pass: Which Is Better?

Tim Brookes — Wed, 30 Mar 2022 09:45:59 GMT

Sony's answer to Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass is a revised version of the existing PlayStation Plus service with several tiers to choose from. So which is superior, assuming you have access to both? Let's take a look.

Xbox Quick Resume Is Coming to Windows Through DirectStorage

Cory Gunther — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 17:54:00 GMT

PC gaming is about to get faster, offer stunning detailed worlds, and have the ability for quick resumes thanks to Microsoft's DirectStorage technology. In 2020, the company said this feature would come to PCs, and now the API is finally available for game developers.

Microsoft Says Xbox Will be Carbon Negative By 2030

Dave LeClair — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 11:02:58 GMT

When you think of game consoles, you probably don't think environmentally friendly. Perhaps you should because Microsoft says it intends to make Xbox carbon negative by 2030.

Why Cloud Gaming's One Killer Feature Sold Me On the Future

Josh Hendrickson — Sat, 05 Mar 2022 16:00:00 GMT

I've been gaming for a long time. I remember when my parents bought an NES along with Super Mario, and I even recall playing Radar Rat Race on my dad's Commodore 64. But over 30 years later, I think consoles don't matter anymore. The future is cloud gaming. And of all things, the Xbox convinced me.

Mouse and Keyboard Coming to Xbox Cloud Gaming

Dave LeClair — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 15:39:18 GMT

Cloud gaming keeps growing, and Microsoft is one of the leaders in the space. The company is looking to appeal to hardcore gamers by adding support for mouse and keyboard to its cloud gaming service, though it isn't clear exactly when.

Microsoft Is Adding Sign Language to Forza Horizon 5

Dave LeClair — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 13:53:54 GMT

Microsoft is making an unexpected accessibility change to Forza Horizon 5 on Xbox. Now, the company is adding both American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) to in-game cinematics.

How (and Why) to Use Your Xbox's Co-Pilot Mode

Sydney Butler — Thu, 24 Feb 2022 14:00:18 GMT

Xbox's Co-pilot mode is a feature that lets two Xbox controllers act as one controller. This allows two people to control the same player on-screen, with the "co-pilot" providing support to the "pilot" when they need it.

You Can Stream to Twitch From Your Xbox Dashboard Again

Dave LeClair — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 12:47:42 GMT

Everyone with an Xbox console can start streaming to Twitch again today. The feature was missing in action for some time, but it's finally ready to go for all console gamers.

What Microsoft Buying Activision Blizzard Means for You

Tim Brookes — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 09:00:11 GMT

Microsoft has announced its intention to purchase Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion, ushering in the largest single acquisition in video gaming history. So what could the deal ultimately mean for people who enjoy games?

Activision Blizzard Games Are Coming to Game Pass for Xbox and PC

Dave LeClair — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 09:47:47 GMT

Microsoft has reached a deal to purchase Activision Blizzard for a staggering $67.8 billion. With that, the company has announced that games from the giant software developer would make their way to Game Pass for Xbox and PC, offering subscribers tons of new stuff to play.

Why the Xbox Series X Is a Great Buy (If You Can Find One)

Tim Brookes — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 08:00:23 GMT

Gaming became an expensive hobby after the pandemic began and silicon shortages worsened. While you might not be able to build your dream gaming PC right now, you might be able to get your hands on an Xbox Series X instead.

Can You Use a Projector for Gaming?

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 23:09:15 GMT

Projectors deliver the ultimate home cinema experience thanks to their crisp image quality and massive display size. But what if you want to play games on a 120-inch screen? Can you use a projector for gaming, and if so, what do you need to know before buying a gaming projector?

Quick Tip: You Can Stream Your PC Games to an Xbox One, Series X, or Series S

Michael Crider — Sat, 25 Dec 2021 15:24:00 GMT

Playing PC games on your TV is all the rage these days, with services like Luna and Stadia offering an easy entry to cloud gaming. But if you already have a gaming PC and a huge collection of games, maybe you'd rather not pay for another subscription. If you also happen to have a recent Xbox, it's a snap.

How to Turn On Xbox Night Mode (and What It Does)

Tim Brookes — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 06:00:26 GMT

Microsoft added Night mode to Xbox consoles with a system update, so now you can save your eyes when playing in the dark if you find yourself especially sensitive to bright light. Here's how it works and what you can customize.

Steam Needs to Copy This New Xbox App Feature

Dave LeClair — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 16:01:50 GMT

Microsoft is beta testing a new feature for the Xbox app on PC that seems so obvious that it's incredible it hasn't come to every PC gaming storefront. The app's beta will now tell you right away if a game will run well on your PC, making it infinitely easier to make purchasing decisions.

You Can Apply to Test Future Xbox Features Right Now

Dave LeClair — Wed, 01 Dec 2021 10:03:44 GMT

Microsoft is looking for a handful of Xbox fans who want to test future Xbox features through its Alpha and Skip-Ahead Insiders programs. If you're interested in seeing what's coming to the Xbox in the future, you can apply right now.

Microsoft Locks Xbox Cloud Gaming "Clarity Boost" to Edge

Dave LeClair — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 11:47:43 GMT

Microsoft has announced a new feature called Clarity Boost for Xbox Cloud Gaming. While new features are never a bad thing, this particular one is exclusive to Microsoft Edge, meaning the company is locking other browsers out of a better Xbox Cloud Gaming experience.

Microsoft Puts "Valued Customers" Ahead of Xbox Scalpers

Dave LeClair — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 09:30:50 GMT

Are you struggling to find an Xbox Series X? Microsoft might have you covered, as the company is offering "valued customers" the opportunity to buy an Xbox Series X bundle without having to compete with the scalpers and bots.

Revisit Your Xbox Gaming Stats in Microsoft's Virtual Museum

Dave LeClair — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 12:31:02 GMT

Who doesn't love a nice trip down memory lane? You can do just that with Microsoft's interesting new virtual Xbox museum. Not only does it take you through Xbox's history, but it'll also let you revisit your own gaming stats and accomplishments.

Halo Infinite's Free Multiplayer Is Now Available

Dave LeClair — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 14:23:17 GMT

Going into the Xbox anniversary, many rumors circulated that Microsoft would surprise everyone by releasing Halo Infinite's free multiplayer mode early, and that's exactly what Microsoft did. The multiplayer beta is available now for Xbox and PC.Related: X Marks the Spot: Microsoft's Xbox Turns 20This was Microsoft's worst kept secret, as almost everyone seems to have heard that company was going to launch the multiplayer portion of its next massive game on November 15, 2021. Forbes did an exhaustive dive into all of the evidence, and it was compelling. And, of course, it all turned out to be correct.You can currently download the Halo Infinite multiplayer beta on Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Series X, and PC. As mentioned, it's completely free, and you don't need to preorder the separate campaign mode to get access to the entirety of the multiplayer mode.If you're on Xbox, you can search for Halo Infinite or go to Microsoft's website to start the download. For those looking to get the game on PC, you can go to the Steam page to download it.However, if you're trying to play on Xbox, you might have some issues. Many users (myself included) are getting a blue screen after downloading the game. That's because it's only downloading the small preload file, and it appears that the actual multiplayer game hasn't fully launched yet.

Common Xbox Series X|S Problems and How to Solve Them

Tim Brookes — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 08:00:52 GMT

Consoles are great because of their pick-up-and-play nature. No drivers, operating systems, or graphics cards to mess with. But things can still go wrong. Let's take a look at some common Xbox Series X|S issues and possible solutions.

You Can Now Play PC Games on an Xbox Console, Here's How

Dave LeClair — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 10:49:50 GMT

If there's one thing you probably didn't expect to read today, it's that you'd be able to play PC games on your Xbox console. Thanks to NVIDIA GeForce Now, you can play all sorts of PC games, including those on Steam, through Edge on your Xbox.

You Can Add 2TB of Storage to Your Xbox, But at What Cost?

Dave LeClair — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 12:40:10 GMT

One of the most significant issues with the current console generation is the size of the games. Microsoft has a solution with a new 2TB expansion card, which is available for preorder in November 2021. While it's a lot of storage, it also comes with an extremely high price tag.

Why Doesn't the Xbox Series X Have VR?

Sydney Butler — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 09:00:31 GMT

The PlayStation VR is the only virtual reality solution for console gamers today and, with the PSVR 2 for the PlayStation 5 rumored to be just around the corner, there's still no answer from the Xbox camp. Why are the Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Xbox One all missing VR support?

Your Xbox Now Runs Microsoft Word and Excel

Dave LeClair — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 10:03:46 GMT

Microsoft has released an update for Edge on Xbox that provides the browser with almost everything the desktop version has. That means it can run the web version of Word and Excel, Discord, Stadia, and so much more.

Your TV Remote Will Soon Control Your Xbox, Too

Dave LeClair — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 11:16:20 GMT

Microsoft is constantly testing new features for Xbox through its Insider Program, and the company has just added new HDMI-CEC features that make it so you can control your Xbox Series S|X consoles with a TV remote.

7 Great Games for New Speedrunners

Eric Schoon — Sat, 04 Sep 2021 13:00:51 GMT

Speedrunning gets more popular every year with new players dedicating themselves to beating their favorite games as fast as possible. If you want to join this great community, you'll need a game to start with, and multiple titles make breaking into speedrunning a little bit easier.

How to Connect a Mouse and Keyboard to Your Xbox

Tim Brookes — Sun, 29 Aug 2021 15:00:16 GMT

Want to connect a mouse and keyboard to your Xbox so you can play games, use apps, and navigate the dashboard? Not all games are supported, and not all Bluetooth keyboards will work. Here's what you need to know.

You'll Soon Be Able to Play Cloud Games on Xbox Consoles

Dave LeClair — Tue, 24 Aug 2021 15:10:39 GMT

Microsoft just had its Gamescom 2021 event, and it announced all sorts of stuff. One announcement that stood out is the option to stream games from the cloud on an Xbox Series X, Series S, or Xbox One game console.

Microsoft Launches an Affordable Xbox Gaming Headset (for PC, Too)

Dave LeClair — Thu, 19 Aug 2021 10:33:28 GMT

Microsoft released a wireless headset a few months ago, and most people who gave it a shot absolutely loved it. Now, the company has announced a more affordable version of the headset that drops the wireless functionality while still maintaining most of what made the headset great.

Microsoft's Latest Cloud Everywhere Ambitions Arrive on Xbox and PC

Josh Hendrickson — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 22:04:38 GMT

Microsoft's cloud ambitions are growing and growing. Eventually, you may not need to own a PC anymore because it will exist in the cloud. And expensive consoles? You may not need one of those either. Microsoft's latest Xbox PC app proves that---and then some.

How You Can Stream Xbox Cloud Games on Windows 10

Dave LeClair — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 13:40:58 GMT

Microsoft keeps moving away from the Xbox console as the only way to play its games. Further going in that direction, the company announced that it has made it so you can stream Xbox games through the Windows 10 PC Xbox App.

How to Watch Microsoft's Gamescom 2021 Stream

Dave LeClair — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 08:58:51 GMT

Gamescom 2021 is right around the corner, and Microsoft is set to take the virtual stage on August 24, 2021, at 1 p.m. ET to wow gamers with lots of exciting goodies.

How to Find the Serial Number of Xbox Series X|S Console or Controller

Pranay Parab — Sat, 07 Aug 2021 14:00:43 GMT

You're going to need the Xbox Series X|S's serial number to check its warranty status or to create service requests. We'll make that easy by showing a few different ways to find the Xbox Series X|S serial number.

You Can Use Master Chief's Voice in Waze, Here's How

Dave LeClair — Tue, 03 Aug 2021 10:44:37 GMT

There are plenty of navigation apps to choose from, but only one currently features Master Chief's voice guidance, and that's Waze.

How to Connect an Xbox Wireless Controller with an Android Phone

Pranay Parab — Sun, 01 Aug 2021 14:00:48 GMT

The Xbox Wireless Controller---also known as the Xbox Series X|S controller---is a good gaming accessory that isn't just for Xbox. Today, we'll show you how to use the Xbox Wireless Controller with your Android phone.

Why You Should Play Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 for Xbox

Tim Brookes — Sat, 31 Jul 2021 08:00:45 GMT

In 2020, Microsoft Flight Simulator launched on Windows and delivered a never-before-seen aviation experience that allows you to fly anywhere on the planet. Fortunately, you no longer need a high-end PC to try it out, as Flight Simulator is finally available on Xbox Series X and S.

How to Appear Offline on Xbox Series X|S

Pranay Parab — Sun, 25 Jul 2021 10:00:00 GMT

If you'd rather not let your friends see whether you're online on the Xbox Series X|S, then you should hide your online status. To help you with that, we'll show you how to appear offline on your Xbox.

How to Turn Off the Xbox Series X|S

Pranay Parab — Sun, 11 Jul 2021 09:30:02 GMT

Microsoft's Xbox Series X|S consoles include an Instant-On mode enabled by default, so when you turn off your Xbox, it goes in standby mode. We'll show you several ways to fully power it down.

How to Turn Off Game Achievement Notifications on Xbox Series X|S

Pranay Parab — Sat, 10 Jul 2021 09:30:21 GMT

When you hit certain gaming milestones on the Xbox Series X|S, you'll see achievement labels on the screen. If you find these notifications distracting, you can turn them off. Here's how.

How to Check If the Xbox Network (Xbox Live) Is Down

Mahesh Makvana — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 09:30:23 GMT

If you're experiencing issues with the Xbox network's online services, chances are that the service is down. Here's how to check if the Xbox network (previously known as Xbox Live) is down.

How to Turn Off Recurring Billing for Xbox Game Pass

Pranay Parab — Sun, 27 Jun 2021 08:30:06 GMT

Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass lets you play as many games as you'd like for a monthly fee. If you've decided against renewing your Game Pass subscription, we'll show you how to turn off recurring billing.