In Tenebris Somnia you play as Julia, a young woman who is having nightmares about her ex-boyfriend being torn apart by horrible monsters. Hoping to find some peace, she goes to his apartment to check on him. What she discovers is a world of horror that descends beyond her darkest dreams. What if the nightmares are real…?

One night while filmmaker and indie game developer Andrés Borghi was streaming our previous horror game FAITH: The Unholy Trinity, he got the idea to make a pixel horror game of his own with a sinister twist: the cutscenes would be live action, with real actors in real locations and real spooky special effects.

So Andrés and Saibot Studios lead Tobías Rusjan got working on a demo. Then they pitched the full game to New Blood, the only studio crazy enough to give a horror filmmaker the budget to make a survival horror game.

And that’s just what we did! Shortly after inking the publishing deal, we traveled to Buenos Aires to see Andrés and the film crew in action. What we saw amazed us – a legit professional camera and production crew, practical monster effects supervised by the award-winning Marcos Berta (“When Evil Lurks”), the performance by Argentine scream queen Clara Kovacic as the game’s protagonista – all meticulously storyboarded and directed by Andrés.

We witnessed the floor of a 17th-century Argentine cathedral splattered with fake blood. We watched a boom operator sprint 20 meters – and slide on his knees the final 2 meters – to get the perfect lighting effect under an actor at the perfect moment. They even guerilla-filmed several shots on the subway in the middle of the night (but don’t tell anyone). This wasn’t the low-budget FMV approach you remember from classic horror-adventure games. It was high-quality movie magic happening right in front of us. And absolutely no generative AI was used anywhere at any point in production.

That’s right, we did it the old-fashioned way. Good old human slop. Practical special effects and limited CGI. Human produced and directed, human-translated localization into English, Japanese, and Brazilian Portuguese. In-game art and animation drawn by hand, pixel by pixel, frame by frame. Audio and music by an actual human composer. Real-life living breathing human programmers. Even if we had used generative AI to take shortcuts (not that we even know how) we wouldn’t be able to call it a New Blood Interactive game with a clear conscience. Would it have saved us some money? Probably, but we would incur a much steeper cost – the trust of our fans who look to us for sincerity and authenticity. It’s just not our brand. Our players and, quite frankly, games in general, deserve better than gen AI. But enough about that.

Back to the game’s incredible cutscenes. These aren’t just cutscenes for cutscenes’ sake. In a lot of retro games, cutscenes were often a reward for making it to the end. In Tenebris Somnia, the cutscenes are directly linked to the gameplay – you never know when a cutscene will begin or end. This not only shocks the player – because now they’re encountering the horrors of the game in gruesome detail – but it keeps them in suspense at all times. You never know if the cutscene will drop you right into an enemy encounter or start right after one!

Merging pixel horror gameplay and live-action cinematics didn’t come without its challenges, however. Film sets needed to match the in-game locations, requiring careful planning and a blend of practical set-dressing and seamless CGI. Thankfully Andrés is also a talented film editor and VFX artist! To make the monster effects believable, silicon masks and prosthetics were molded out of performer’s faces and then fitted back on with makeup – a process that took several hours each time just like in a major Hollywood-style production. You can see behind-the-scenes videos on how this was done on our YouTube and Instagram. We hope to release a full making-of documentary after the game is launched!

After nearly 4 years of production we’re extremely proud of this monster we’ve created together. Tenebris Somnia offers a classic survival horror experience – scary monsters, limited resources, brutal boss fights, great sound design, puzzles to solve, and a terrifying plot to uncover. In the words of Andrés, “I hope players will come to see the cutscenes, and stay to experience the story”! It also stands alone as a genuinely scary horror game with a truly unique identity – take it from me – the guy that made FAITH!

Tenebris Somnia is available now on XBOX Series X|S and XBOX on PC. PC. Play it on console and PC at no additional cost with XBOX Play Anywhere.

Tenebris Somnia

New Blood Interactive

☆☆☆☆☆ 15

★★★★★

$24.99 $19.99

Get it now

Tenebris Somnia is a 2D retro survival horror adventure game with live action cutscenes created by an award winning film crew from Argentina. Unveil the depths of a disturbing story by solving puzzles and fighting horrible creatures. …What if they aren't just nightmares?

The post Tenebris Somnia: Blood, Pixels, and Prosthetics appeared first on XBOX Wire.

For years, XBOX has worked alongside creators across Latin America, helping studios of all sizes bring their games to players around the world. Through the ID@XBOX Developer Acceleration Program (DAP), we’ve worked with more than 60 studios from Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Honduras, Uruguay, and beyond, helping developers bring over 30 culturally distinctive games to XBOX since 2023, while strengthening the region’s growing game development ecosystem by providing access to technical resources, business support, and mentorship.  

XBOX Game Camp Heads to Mexico City

As XBOX continues to support game creators across Latin America, XBOX Game Camp is expanding its reach with a Mexico City debut on October 17 alongside Xbox FanFest. Taking place during Xbox’s 25th anniversary year, the event will celebrate Mexico’s game development community and the extraordinary talent already shaping games across the region, while creating new opportunities for developers to learn, connect, and grow.

XBOX Game Camp Mexico will bring together a select group of Mexican studios, including developers both within and beyond the existing XBOX ecosystem, for a day focused on industry knowledge, community, and connection. The program will feature advanced developer seminars, keynotes and fireside conversations with industry leaders, along with opportunities to connect directly with industry professionals and members of Team XBOX, including Jens Bergensten, Chief Creative Officer at Mojang Studios. His fireside conversation with Peter Zetterberg, Founder of XBOX Game Camp, will explore his career journey and lessons from Sweden’s game development ecosystem, with a focus on collaboration, supporting fellow creators, and the role community can play in building a stronger industry.

With a passionate development community and a strong culture of collaboration, Mexico City provides an ideal setting for XBOX Game Camp to celebrate locally developed games, strengthen connections across the ecosystem, and create new pathways for Mexican creators to bring their ideas to audiences around the world.

As we support the next generation of creators through initiatives like XBOX Game Camp, we’re also celebrating the developers shaping Latin America’s game development community today. Here’s a look at six upcoming games from Latin American creators to keep on your radar.

Six Upcoming Games from Latin America to Watch

Mariachi Legends — Halberd Studios, Mexico

Mariachi Legends is a brutal, combat-oriented Metroidvania wrapped in gorgeous pixel art and set in the heart of Mexico. Players step into the shoes of Pablo Cruz, a Mexican detective who strikes a deal with Death herself. Granted the ability to transform into the supernatural entity “La Sombra,” Pablo must battle an evil syndicate known as the Mariachi Legends. It’s a journey that blends intense hack-and-slash action with RPG mechanics, all unfolding around the Day of the Dead festivities.

What sets Mariachi Legends apart?

What truly separates Mariachi Legends is our deep, authentic integration of Mexican culture and folklore directly into the gameplay loop. Beyond standard combat and exploration we’ve also introduced a unique culinary mechanic: players explore the world to collect ingredients and cook traditional Mexican dishes to gain strength. Coupled with a Day/Night cycle driven by Sun and Moon gates, where different map sections are accessible depending on the time of day, the game offers a distinct flavor you won’t find in other Metroidvanias.

How has DAP supported development of your title?

ID@XBOX has been instrumental in helping us bring our vision to life without compromising on quality or cultural authenticity. The program provided us with the resources and technical support needed to ensure Mariachi Legends runs flawlessly on XBOX Series X|S, utilize features like XBOX Play Anywhere. The marketing amplification and the opportunity to bring the game to a massive audience via XBOX Game Pass has given our studio the runway to focus fully on creating a polished experience.

What do you hope players take away from your game?

We hope players walk away with a profound appreciation for the richness of Mexican traditions. We want them to experience the thrill of a tight, challenging Metroidvania, but more importantly, we want the world, the food, the music, and the folklore of Mexico to resonate with them long after they put the controller down.

Colorbound — Panpipe Studio, Chile

In Colorbound, color is more than just a hue. Join Anku on a heartwarming journey, using color to shape the world around you. In this puzzle-platforming adventure, you will solve challenging puzzles, uncover secrets, and help a family of musicians reunite, just like in the old days, for a farewell concert.

What sets Colorbound apart?

Colorbound stands out primarily for its aesthetics and core mechanics. The ability to change the colors of the environment creates an experience that draws attention through its very concept. Furthermore, the narrative, music, and art reflect the Andean culture of Latin America, successfully connecting with the region and showcasing a culture unknown to many.

How has DAP supported development of your title?

Primarily by providing some of the funding for the project’s production and post-production, which allowed for a faster development process and more comprehensive publishing work.

What do you hope players take away from your game?

On one hand, I hope that during the process you are surprised by the different mechanics associated with the colors and enjoy solving the game’s challenging puzzles. But above all, I hope you take away a fond memory of a simple, touching experience about friendship and grief.

Sky Dust — Orbit Studio, Brazil

Sky Dust is a single-player cyberpunk action-adventure with RPG elements, set in a dystopian future after the destruction of the Moon. Players take on the role of a mercenary exploring the streets of São Paulo and a digital realm known as the Cyberverse. The game combines precise combat, exploration, platforming, and hacking in a world shaped by lunar contamination and the struggle between humanity and technology.

What sets Sky Dust apart?

Sky Dust brings a Brazilian perspective to cyberpunk, reimagining São Paulo as a dystopian city shaped by its urban identity, contrasts, and culture. Its combat combines precise swordplay, well-timed parries, and customizable cybernetic arms with distinct abilities. Players can experiment with different combinations and adapt their approach to each encounter, balancing aggressive attacks with careful defence.

How has DAP supported development of your title?

The ID@XBOX Developer Acceleration Program has provided valuable financial support that allowed us to bring Sky Dust to XBOX and Windows. For an independent studio like ours, this support helps reduce the financial pressure of developing for additional platforms and allows us to dedicate more resources to delivering a polished experience. It also gives us greater confidence as we work toward sharing the game with a wider audience.

What do you hope players take away from your game?

We hope players leave Sky Dust feeling the satisfaction of mastering its combat and discovering the stories hidden throughout its world. We also want the game to spark reflection on what it means to remain human in a society where technology can reshape both the body and the mind. Above all, we hope its characters, atmosphere, and Brazilian perspective stay with players after their journey ends.

Treetopians — Aparato Games, Argentina

Treetopians is a cozy colony simulator where players build vertical villages in the treetops and care for a growing community of villagers with unique needs and personalities. Players design and expand their settlements, manage resources, and help their community thrive as they explore new environments and discover new biomes.

What sets Treetopians apart?

Treetopians combine vertical city-building with colony management, allowing players to build and expand unique villages high up in the treetops. Its distinctive environments, creative building possibilities, and progression across different biomes offer a fresh take on the cozy city-builder genre.

How has DAP supported development of your title?

The ID@XBOX Developer Acceleration Program has provided valuable support for the development of Treetopians, helping our small indie team move the project forward, improve the game, and bring our vision to life. This support has been an important step toward making Treetopians available to XBOX players.

What do you hope players take away from your game?

We hope players find a relaxing and rewarding experience where they can unleash their creativity, build at their own pace, and enjoy watching their communities grow. Treetopians is about creating a place of your own, exploring new environments, and finding joy in the little things along the way.

GHOSTLESS — Coffeenauts, Brazil

In an alternate 20th Century, a Cold War AI super-intelligence turned against humanity. Lead an uprising against AI in a post-apocalyptic world where you’re never sure who is human and who is machine. Scavenge for resources, find survivors to grow your base, root out android infiltrators and lead the resistance in a unique hybrid of 2.5D action-adventure and colony building.

A dark sci-fi journey about humanity, paranoia and survival, GHOSTLESS is atmospherically rendered in a style we’re calling ‘hi-fi pixel art’, a blend of retro pixel graphics and modern 3D lighting and visual effects.

What sets GHOSTLESS apart?

GHOSTLESS is a premium indie game with beautiful visuals, unique genre blend and a clear hook inspired by sci-fi classics like ‘The Terminator’ and ‘The Thing’: you must lead the uprising against the machines by becoming humanity’s “John Connor” figure while investigating disguised android infiltrators trying to sabotage your resistance.

How has DAP supported development of your title?

Coffeenauts only exists as a studio today because XBOX chose to give their vote of confidence and support development of our first game, a student project called Spacelines from the Far Out, which eventually became one of the first Brazilian games on Game Pass. XBOX gave a few students from Brazil an opportunity no one else would.

Now, showing ID@XBOX’s continued commitment to supporting gaming and diverse independent projects from all over the world, we’ve renewed this partnership by having our new title GHOSTLESS chosen as part of the Developer Acceleration Program, which gave us not only the means to kickstart development, marketing support, but also a key validation for the project’s potential from industry experts. We couldn’t be more excited to be launching on XBOX again!

What do you hope players take away from your game?

GHOSTLESS draws a picture of a 20th Century that could have been, inviting players to ask themselves: What sets humans apart from machines? Can machines ever replace humans? Should technological progress be pursued no matter the cost?

Greak 2: Alliance of the Storms — Navegante, Mexico

Greak 2: Alliance of the Storms is a hand-drawn co-operative Metroidvania adventure playable solo, or in localand online co-op, continuing the story of Greak: Memories of Azur. Venture into the unexplored lands of Synoraz, where Greak and Adara are split in parallel dimensions by the ruthless Ilikun. Harness their synergetic abilities, solve interconnected puzzles and join the mythical eagles in a race to save the last Storm Egg before an ancient species is lost forever.

What sets Greak 2 apart?

What sets Greak 2: Alliance of the Storms apart is the way it builds its entire adventure around two characters working together. Co-op Metroidvanias are still relatively uncommon and we wanted to explore what this genre could offer when cooperation is at the heart of the experience.

One of our main additions is the parallel dimensions mechanic. Greak and Adara exist in different dimensions, meaning they can only interact with the objects, enemies and paths in their own reality. This creates puzzles and challenges that require players to coordinate their actions and think about how their two worlds connect. Whether you play solo or with a friend, cooperation is essential to progressing through the game.

As an indie studio, we are also incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to return to the world of Greak and expand on it with a sequel. We built upon what we learned from our first game while continuing to embrace the artistic approach that defines our work: traditional frame by frame animation and hand painted backgrounds that bring the world of Synoraz to life!

How has DAP supported development of your title?

The ID@XBOX Developer Acceleration Program has been a great support for us as an indie studio. Through the program, we qualified for porting support, which is helping us bring Greak 2: Alliance of the Storms to XBOX players.

The program has also helped us better understand the XBOX ecosystem and the opportunities available to us as developers on the platform. Access to educational and marketing opportunities has supported both our first game, Greak: Memories of Azur and our upcoming sequel Greak 2: Alliance of the Storms.

What do you hope players take away from your game?

Our goal with Greak 2: Alliance of the Storms is to create a Metroidvania adventure that two players can enjoy together, regardless of their gaming experience or skill level. We want the game to be an accessible introduction to the Metroidvania, platforming and puzzle genres, while still offering an engaging adventure for experienced players.

When we presented our demo for the first time at gamescom, one of the most rewarding things was seeing parents play alongside their children and couples enjoy the adventure together. It reminded us that games can be a wonderful way to connect, share experiences and create lasting memories!

Beyond the gameplay, we have put a lot of care into the hand-drawn visuals and narrative to create a world that players can become immersed in. Through Greak and Adara’s journey, we hope to tell a compelling story that resonates with players and leaves them with a positive message about cooperation, helping one another and facing challenges together.

More Voices, More Worlds, More Games

Through the ID@XBOX Developer Acceleration Program and XBOX Game Camp, we’re proud to support creators across Latin America as they develop their craft, bring new ideas to life, and create experiences that speak to players around the world. Explore the games already available, add the upcoming releases to your wishlist, and keep an eye on the new voices shaping the future of game development across Latin America.

For more games from the ID@XBOX Developer Acceleration Program, check out our Emerging Creators collection. To learn more about the XBOX Game Camp, and its history, please visit Microsoft Game Dev Blog.

The post Celebrating the Next Generation of Latin American Game Creators appeared first on XBOX Wire.

Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® 4

Activision Publishing Inc.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$69.99

Pre-order

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 – October 23
XBOX Play Anywhere

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 pushes the series into darker and more dangerous territory, where consequence and escalation bring long-running storylines to a powerful and emotional breaking point. Pre-order Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 today to gain Early Access to the game’s Campaign starting Friday, October 16 ahead of its global launch on October 23.

FINAL FANTASY RESONANCE

SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$49.99

Pre-order

Final Fantasy Resonance – October 22
XBOX Play Anywhere

What if FINAL FANTASY had continued to push the limits of pixel art? The first FINAL FANTASY to join the HD‑2D lineup, FINAL FANTASY RESONANCE delivers a visually striking experience that feels both nostalgic and new, enhanced by dynamic camera angles and pixelized 3D models that make every moment more dramatic and immersive. A classic RPG adventure unfolds in a world filled with beloved FINAL FANTASY elements—airships, crystals, espers and moogles woven into the fabric of the story, and so much more.

Shoresy: Legends of the North

Treewood Games, New Metric Media

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$14.99

Get it now

Shoresy: Legends of the North – October 19

Shoresy: Legends of the North is a fast-paced hockey RPG set in the Shoresy universe. Create your skater and join the Sudbury Blueberry Bulldogs on a quest to save the world from the legendary Hockey Godz, or go head-to-head with friends with a roster of fan-favourite characters.

Candlemates (Xbox Series)

Afil Games

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Candlemates – October 20

Get ready for a bright adventure full of strategy in Candlemates! Control two enchanted candles and push the fire stones onto their matching braziers, but be careful: each candle has a limited number of moves, and every step can make all the difference!

Christmas Across America Collector's Edition

Ocean Media LLC

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Christmas Across America Collector’s Edition – October 20

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit! Journey into the heart of winter America to create traditions, find hidden treasures, and experience the magic of the coziest time of year.

Cruise Adventure: Hidden Journey Collector's Edition

Ocean Media LLC

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Cruise Adventure: Hidden Journey Collector’s Edition – October 20

Feel the sea breeze and the endless horizon! This is the beginning of a grand journey. For the first time, you step aboard a luxurious liner to spend an unforgettable honeymoon! In Cruise Adventure: Hidden Journey, warm encounters and cozy evenings await, as your route takes you through the colorful islands of the Pacific Ocean. This isn’t just a sightseeing tour, it’s a celebration of life, where every day brings new emotions.

Elite Sports Gaming Football – October 20

ESG Football 27 is bigger, faster, and more connected than ever. Build your player, compete with friends, and experience football your way with brand-new 11v11 Rec Mode, cross-play between PlayStation and Xbox, improved matchmaking and connectivity, tutorials to learn the fundamentals, nostalgia-inspired mini-games, and a deeper player progression system with grindable badges and boosts to increase your character’s attributes. Whether you’re playing Head-to-Head, teaming up in 11v11, or grinding to build your player, ESG Football 27 brings the ultimate football experience to life.

Family Journey: Hidden Across The World Collector's Edition

Ocean Media LLC

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Family Journey: Hidden Across The World Collector’s Edition – October 20

Pack your bags and join a loving family on a heartwarming journey around the world! Sharpen your eye for detail across 60 beautifully crafted hidden object scenes, each inspired by real-world cities and iconic landmarks. Take a break from searching with 12 delightful mini games and brain teasing puzzles that the whole family can enjoy together. This Collector’s Edition is packed with exclusive extras, enjoy bonus levels, a music player and achievements to keep the adventure alive. Personalize your experience in a special interior scene where you can buy furniture, and test your skills to unlock 10 unique achievements.

Hail to the Rainbow

Sometimes You

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$14.99 $11.99

Pre-order

Free Trial

Hail to the Rainbow – October 20
Smart Delivery / XBOX Play Anywhere

Hail to the Rainbow is a first-person, story-driven adventure with horror and shooter elements. Set in a richly detailed world, the game challenges you to survive in a new reality, uncover the secrets behind the surrounding chaos, and experience the protagonist’s memories and inner struggles.

We Were Here Tomorrow

Total Mayhem Games

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

We Were Here Tomorrow – October 20

On an expedition to save your fellow Explorers, you and your partner become trapped beneath the ice of Antarctica. When you awaken, you find yourselves inside the mysterious Norček Industries facility with little recollection of what happened. Director Kathleen Bowe needs your help to continue the work of her missing research team before a global crisis unfolds.

CyberBot: Zero (Xbox Series)

GameDi Studio

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

CyberBot: Zero – October 21

In this thrilling 2D platformer, you play as CyberBot, a brave autonomous unit that must navigate a corrupted mega-facility. Get ready for a nostalgic adventure filled with digital challenges! Explore detailed and colorful cyber environments, crafted with a charming retro style. Use your logic to hack systems, move units, and overcome creative obstacles.

Dreadway

Take IT Studio! sp. z o. o.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Dreadway – October 22

Dreadway is an online co-op survival horror with crafting, proximity voice chat, terrifying monsters, and voice-driven interactions. You and up to three friends travel through a post-apocalyptic world, collect junk, craft survival devices, and interact with the game through voice chat.

Entwined: Strings of Deception

Joindots® GmbH, Germany

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Entwined: Strings of Deception – October 22
Smart Delivery

The famous inventor Christopher Edward has been brutally murdered in his own home. As Detective Karla Robbins, you take on the case. You question his wife, his secretary, the butler, the maid, and the family doctor. Everyone smiles politely; everyone tells their own version of the night’s events. Who is lying? Listen closely, compare statements, and spot the contradictions. Record every piece of evidence in your interactive case file and piece the puzzle together, bit by bit. Sometimes, the crucial clue lies in the very detail you overlooked the first time around.

Moadra

Gloomsoft

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Moadra – October 22
XBOX Play Anywhere

Traverse a massive interconnected world on the sand-swept planet of Protea VI. Unveil the grim mysteries of Protea VI at your own pace as Moadra. Endure challenging combat and evolve Moadra’s abilities, solve puzzles, and reveal countless hidden paths and secrets throughout your mission to uncover your lost Neera heritage.

Mortal Sin

Nikola Todorovic

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Mortal Sin – October 22

Eyes locked on your prey. You kill without remorse. After all… it’s either you or them. Sentience fades. This moment is your release. Descend into a surreal, ever-shifting nightmare. Procedurally generated levels, randomised quests, and hundreds of hand-crafted rooms make every run feel fresh. Unlock a growing roster of distinct classes, from the great sword-wielding Berserker to the gun-toting Pirate, each with their own play style and wild synergies.

Spray Trace (Xbox One)

Afil Games

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Spray Trace – October 22

Grab your spray can and step into a colorful adventure in Spray Trace! Control a talented graffiti artist and move through each environment, painting the tiles along your path. But you can’t just paint everything you see: each color has an exact number of tiles that must be filled!

Tidy Up the Flower Shop

Over The Moon

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Tidy Up the Flower Shop – October 22
XBOX Play Anywhere

“Your big flower delivery came, so I unpacked it all for you!” Your niece has a spare key and the best of intentions. The shop opens tomorrow, and every flower you ordered is somewhere on the floor. It’s okay. You know where they all go. Pick flowers up until your arms are full. Cycle through what you are carrying, find the basket that wants a rose, and set it in. Each basket takes one kind of flower, and it tells you when it is done.

Warrior Cats: Clans of the Forest

Trailmark Games

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$29.99

Pre-order

Warrior Cats: Clan of the Forest – October 22

Warrior Cats: Clans of the Forest is an immersive action-adventure game set in the Lake Territories of the beloved Warrior Cats book series. Embark on a variety of quests to gain favor with your Clan and battle others in turn-based combat to strengthen your cat and grow your legend.

Carry The Glass

NAISU

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Carry The Glass – October 23
XBOX Play Anywhere

Team up as two quirky construction workers in this fun 2-player co-op platformer! Carry a fragile glass window through colorful levels filled with challenges. Communicate and coordinate to dodge obstacles and solve puzzles. Can you finish the job without breaking the glass?

Darkenstein 3D Director's cut

Dolores Entertainment S.L.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Darkenstein 3D Director’s Cut – October 23
Smart Delivery / XBOX Play Anywhere

trying to rescue his dog from the clutches of the Nazis. Fast, brutal, and demanding. Darkenstein 3D doesn’t make it easy for you. You can dodge enemy projectiles, but surviving requires quick movements, precise aim, and sharp reflexes. Every battle is a deadly dance of dodges and spins. No cover, no aim assist—just pure, unadulterated action.

FIRE AND ASHES

Axyos Games

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

FIRE AND ASHES – October 23

Henry Gray is haunted by the ghosts of his past. He awakens in 1977 inside Paul Staderbeiger Psychiatric Hospital, about to begin a maddening journey that will push his sanity to the breaking point. Descend through derelict hospital halls and beyond, where reality and nightmare mix into something far worse than either.

House 2

Glowstick Entertainment

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

House 2 – October 23
Smart Delivery

As a terrible storm rages on, Tabby finds herself once again trapped in a never-ending nightmare. Uncover the mystery of the curse or succumb to it in the sequel to the 2020 horror game, House.

Omni Growth

Brainium Games

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Omni Growth – October 23
Smart Delivery / XBOX Play Anywhere

Humans invaded a massive galactic ship and nearly wiped out an ancient arachnid species. But one hatchling survived… Now you are the last hope of your kind. Explore the abandoned sections of the colossal spacecraft, hunt space insects and invaders, consume your prey, and evolve from a helpless creature into a deadly predator. Each level takes you to a new part of the ship, featuring unique environments, biomes, traps, and enemies. Use your surroundings to survive, grow stronger, and unlock new abilities.

Railroad Swap (Xbox Series)

Afil Games

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Railroad Swap – October 23

Get ready for a journey full of challenges in Railroad Swap! Help Mat, an adorable train-driving cat, build the tracks needed to guide his train to the final destination. But be careful: the available pieces aren’t enough to complete the entire route, so you’ll need to think beyond the tracks!

Seahorse Soap Patrol

Cascadia Games LLC

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Seahorse Soap Patrol – October 23
Smart Delivery

When polluting sea creatures fill the ocean with trash, it’s up to the Seahorse Soap Patrol to clean things up! Float through different underwater biomes, blowing sud bubbles at naughty nautiluses, smelly sharks, and more! Pick up the trash and make the ocean a fresh, clean home for all to enjoy. Two player co-op, retro platforming fun!

Vixen 357

Ratalaika Games S.L.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Get it now

Vixen 357 – October 23
Smart Delivery

One day, a mysterious unit attacked the base of Slash Unit, who had been training to become the pilots of Vectors. But who are they…? Now, the battle begins again, with the secrets lie hidden! This Sci-fi simulation game is based on exciting story with various events and unique characters and epic battles with dozens of units.

The Walking Trade

PlayWay S.A.

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

$11.99 $10.79

Pre-order

The Walking Trade – October 23
XBOX Play Anywhere

Run a shop in the zombie apocalypse! Trade batteries, craft stock, manage your staff, and fend off undead hordes. Will you be a hero, or profit at any cost? Your choices shape your store – and your fate. The Walking Trade is a quirky, action-packed zombie apocalypse store management game where chaos and commerce collide!

The post Next Week on XBOX: New Games for October 19 to 23 appeared first on XBOX Wire.

Miami Zero is a massive free expansion that transports you to the sun-soaked (and frequently rain-soaked) streets of Miami, back to when the virus was first unleashed on the world. This was ground zero for the outbreak and in this DLC you’ll find yourself right in the thick of it, screening desperate survivors, identifying symptoms, and making tough calls about who lives and who dies. The fate of the world rests on your shoulders, and your scanner, but hey – at least the sun is shining!

So far, so familiar. But Miami Zero is much more than just a change of scenery. This is a major update to the game, adding new inspection mechanics, tools, survivors, minigames, quests, and more. We’ve been releasing regular updates for Quarantine Zone since it launched in January, but this is by far the biggest chunk of new stuff yet. We’ve also taken the opportunity to let your imaginations run wild, and some of the new content we’ve been cooking up is a little wild ‘n’ wacky, just like Miami itself.

SURVIVOR VARIETY

If you’ve played Quarantine Zone you’ll know that you spend a lot of time getting familiar (maybe too familiar) with the people lining up for processing. In the Miami Zero expansion, the flavour and variety of these characters has been dramatically increased. Over 30 unique survivors have been added to the game, all with their own distinct personalities, voice lines, appearances, and quirks. We’ve also added new animations, additional body type variety, and lots of new reactions to really make the game’s characters come to life. You never know who’ll show up next.

NEW DISCOVERIES

New survivors also means new symptoms. Whether it’s suspicious scars, rotten organs, or wriggly stomach parasites, there are lots of wonderfully disgusting new things to discover as you use your various high-tech screening tools to probe the potentially infected. But, this being the city of vice, it’s not just signs of infection you have to search for – there are drugs to sniff out too. This illicit contraband can be slipped under hats, swallowed, hidden in a fist, or concealed in other tricky ways, adding a whole extra layer of inspection gameplay to the classic Quarantine Zone experience.

FRESH DISTRACTIONS

Miami Zero also introduces a new research centre that lets you perform experiments on the infected – with surprising and shocking results, including freakish mutants that could threaten the safety of the checkpoint. Or if you’d rather escape, why not try your hand at a campaign-spanning quest to repair a ship and sail to calmer waters. This combined with a new campaign, storyline, quests, and characters means Miami Zero is absolutely stuffed with new content. Oh, and you can feed people to sharks. Did we mention that? You just better make doubly sure they’re infected first.

MIAMI VIBES

For the authentic Miami experience, we’ve also added a new dynamic weather system to the game. From cloud-splitting sunshine to dust storms and tropical rain, the elements are as unpredictable as the people who’ll come through the checkpoint. We’ve also added new locations and scenery, including a pier, city streets, and a music festival, as well as upgrades to the game’s environmental audio. The level of immersion in Miami Zero has been ramped up massively, making it a more effective backdrop for the unfolding origin story of the chaotic early days of the outbreak.

Whether you’re a returning veteran or a newbie, there’s never been a better time to experience Quarantine Zone. Not only does the Miami Zero expansion offer a radically different new setting and a lore-expanding story, but the original campaign has been tweaked, updated, and improved too. So, if you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to be at the frontline of the apocalypse, now’s your chance. Quarantine Zone: Miami Zero is available now on XBOX Series X|S and PC – including via XBOX and PC Game Pass – and is free to all owners of the original game. Don’t forget your sunscreen.

Quarantine Zone: The Last Check

Devolver Digital

☆☆☆☆☆ 1953

★★★★★

$19.99 $12.99

Get it now

PC Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass

— FREE CONTENT UPDATE — WELCOME TO MIAMI, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN Experience the chaotic early days of the outbreak at ground zero: sun-kissed (and stormy) Miami, Florida. Discover how the infection began through encounters with a brand new cast of quirky characters, and dispose of any infected suspects in the most economical way possible: by feeding them to the sharks! INVESTIGATE AN INFECTION THAT KEEPS EVOLVING The virus is still evolving, and so is your understanding of it. Study its mutations and trace the infection back to its source while the situation around you grows stranger by the day. The deeper you dig, the harder it becomes to believe that the outbreak was simply an accident. REBUILD YOUR WAY OUT Keep the hastily constructed checkpoint running while preparing for the one thing everyone in Miami desperately needs – a way out. Recruit survivors who can help restore a damaged luxury yacht and turn it into your best chance of escaping the city. New symptoms, new tools and new challenges will keep you guessing as Miami falls deeper into chaos… — Quarantine Zone: The Last Check puts you in charge of a critical checkpoint during a zombie outbreak. Armed with advanced screening tools and your own instincts, you must decide who gets through and who stays behind. One wrong choice could let the infection slip past your post. But holding the line is only the beginning. You’ll need to manage scarce resources, reinforce defenses, and keep your camp alive as chaos intensifies with each passing day. SEE IT? SORT IT Use high-tech tools to uncover signs of infection among the terrified survivors. Identify contraband, forbidden items, and even rare collectables as you work to keep your checkpoint secure. Send those with suspicious symptoms to quarantine for observation, to the lab for additional screening, or save healthy survivors by sending them to the living block. And those who show to be infected… well, they don't stand a chance anyway. COMMAND THE CATASTROPHE As the survivor population swells, you’ll be relied upon to provide essentials such as power, food, and medicine. When the alarms are raised, pilot armed drones to ensure the infected don’t breach the compound. The better you manage your ever-expanding base, the more resources, tools, and weapon upgrades you’ll unlock. LEARN. ADAPT. SURVIVE. When a quarantined survivor becomes an undead predator, all is not lost! Keep newly turned zombies confined to harvest and prepare samples in return for new tools, staff XP, and long-term upgrades. Individuals with unknown symptoms can also be analyzed, but these tests are always fatal to the subject. Will you choose to preserve life? Or will you pursue knowledge at any cost?

The post Quarantine Zone’s Miami Zero DLC is the Perfect Excuse to Return to the Smash Hit Zombie Checkpoint Simulator appeared first on XBOX Wire.

NBA 2K27 Standard Edition is also available beginning Friday, October 16 at 12pm PDT until Sunday, October 18.

Watch out! The Alters will have a free 3-hour timed trial from Thursday, October 15 until Sunday, October 18. All players can try it out, no Game Pass membership required.

How to Start Playing

Scroll down and find and install the games on each of the individual game details page on XBOX.com. Clicking through will send you to the Microsoft Store, where you must be signed in to see the option to install with your XBOX Game Pass Ultimate, Premium and Essential membership. To download on console, click on the Subscriptions tab in the XBOX Store and navigate down to the Free Play Days collection on your XBOX One and XBOX Series X|S.

Keep the Fun Going

Purchase the game and other editions at a limited time discount and continue playing while keeping your Gamerscore and achievements earned during the event! Please note that discounts, percentages, and title availability may vary by title and region.

Free Play Days (Game Pass Membership Required)

NBA 2K27 Standard Edition 
Hit the court and hoop with friends this weekend as NBA 2K27 joins Xbox Free Play Days.

Starting October 16, you can create a MyPLAYER and lace up in The City, build a legacy in MyCAREER, and compete with NBA and WNBA superstars in Play Now. Take advantage of Xbox Free Play Days from October 16 to October 18 and get ready for NBA Tip-Off.  Also, from October 16 to October 29, purchase any digital edition of NBA 2K27 and get an Xbox Gift Card plus a 15,000 Virtual Currency Pack.

NBA 2K27 (XBOX Series X|S)

2K

☆☆☆☆☆ 1911

★★★★★

Get it now

Free Trial

Crusader Kings III
Love, fight, scheme, and claim greatness. Determine your noble house’s legacy in the sprawling grand strategy of Crusader Kings III. Death is only the beginning as you guide your dynasty’s bloodline in the rich and larger-than-life simulation of the Middle Ages. Play Crusader Kings III for free now on XBOX Series X|S!

Crusader Kings III

Paradox Interactive

☆☆☆☆☆ 2121

★★★★★

$49.99

Get it now

Bus Simulator 21 Next Stop
Hop aboard Bus Simulator 21 Next Stop during Xbox Free Play Days, October 15–18! Drive officially licensed buses, explore two open-world cities, and build your bus company solo or with friends in online co-op.

Bus Simulator 21 Next Stop

astragon Entertainment

☆☆☆☆☆ 135

★★★★★

$29.99

Get it now

Soccer Story
Try Soccer Story for free as part of Xbox Free Play Days, and if you want to play even more, you can grab the game for 85% OFF! The world might as well be over – Soccer Inc. has closed down every local stadium, team and tournament. What kind of world can survive without the beautiful game? Thankfully a magical soccer ball has chosen you, our Savior of Soccer!

Soccer Story

No More Robots

☆☆☆☆☆ 311

★★★★★

$19.99 $2.99

Get it now

Ravenswatch
Recall the fairy tales of old and join the Ravenswatch! In this roguelike action game, battle nightmares, power up your abilities, and collect items to craft a build that takes you to the endgame.

 Playable solo or in up to 4-player co-op, Ravenswatch recently celebrated its second anniversary. A new hero, Kintaro, inspired by Japanese folklore, has joined the fray, fighting alongside his bear companion. The DLC arrives alongside a talent rework for all heroes, changing the way they play. And for those who don’t want the fun to end, Ravenswatch will be 65% off during the free play weekend.

Ravenswatch

Nacon

☆☆☆☆☆ 223

★★★★★

$29.99 $10.49

Get it now

Free Play Days For All

The Alters
Stranded on a hostile planet, you create alternate versions of yourself to survive. But each Alter is shaped by a branching life path, and they don’t always agree on your choices – current and past ones. The Alters is a personal survival game that fuses mechanical depth with emotional storytelling, asking one haunting question: What if you had made different choices? Build your base, manage resources, care for your Alters mental wellbeing, and reckon with regret in this award-winning experience.

The Alters

11 bit studios

☆☆☆☆☆ 1340

★★★★★

$34.99 $15.74

Get it now

PC Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass

Free Trial

Don’t miss out on these exciting Free Play Days for XBOX Game Pass Ultimate, Premium and Essential members! Learn more about Free Play Days here and stay tuned to XBOX Wire to find out about future Free Play Days and all the latest XBOX gaming news. 

The post Free Play Days – NBA 2K27, Crusader Kings III, The Alters, Bus Simulator 21, Soccer Story and Ravenswatch appeared first on XBOX Wire.