It's uncommon to be impressed by a Gamescom press conference, but Microsoft defied all odds today when it took the stage in Cologne, Germany. Within just an hour more than a dozen games were shown off backed by meaningful announcements. It was fast-paced to a point where some spectators had trouble keeping up with all the information.
While several third-party titles were shown, the exclusives and Xbox One OS oriented announcements were what took the show to a whole new level. Below you will find the 10 most important pieces of content presented at Microsoft's Gamescom 2015 Press Conference.
Microsoft Just Killed It At Gamescom 2015 With These 10 Xbox Announcements
Backward compatability is arriving in November with over 100 games
Microsoft announced that this November backward compatibility will arrive on Xbox One. At launch over 100 games will be supported, ranging from Borderlands to Mass Effect . Made better, all future Games with Gold titles will be supported, meaning that you'll have access to both the Xbox One and Xbox 360 offerings of the service from your single device. rn rnRead More on GameRevolution
Crackdown 3 has fully destructible environments in multiplayer
Crackdown 3 was shown off using its newly-announced multiplayer mode where every object in the environment is destructible. The result was an explosive demonstration that fit well into Microsoft presentation which confirmed a 2016 release year for the title. Many expect it to arrive during Summer. rn rnRead More on GameRevolution
DVR is coming soon
Xbox One's TV integration was one of its most marketed features early on, but has since been pushed to the wayside for a focus on gaming. Nonetheless, Microsoft didn't forget that it originally promised DVR support for the Xbox One, and next year that feature will finally debut. This will allow those who hook up their cable box to their Xbox One the option to record and watch recorded media using an intuitive interface.
Forza Motorsport 6 to get Circuit of the Americas
It's been a long time coming, and Forza 's first ever rain effects are almost here. A Forza Motorsport 6 trailer debuted during the Microsoft Press Conference showed in-game footage that might actually be the single most impressive demonstration of rain effects in a racing game in history. In addition, the Circuit of the Americas track will debut in the game making a profound improvement to the already strong track list. rn rnWatch the Trailer Here
A Halo 5 Special Edition Console is ready to strike
We knew it was coming, but it's so much more beautiful than anticipated. This year's Halo 5 Special Edition Xbox One console is a remarkable package. Although it'll be priced at $499, it will include a custom 1TB console, controller, and a copy of Halo 5: Guardians along with some neat extras. The custom console and controller have just about the best design of any themed console in gaming history, making it a must-have for Halo fans. rn rnRead More on GameRevolution
Creative Assembly is making a Halo Wars 2 game
In a move that shocked the audience, Microsoft debuted Halo Wars 2 during its press conference. This strategy game is set for Q4 2016 and was a strong way to end the show. What caught more attention than anything else is the fact that the legendary Creative Assembly (Total War ) is developing the game. This is a studio of a high pedigree, so it's no surprise that many regard this as the biggest piece of Microsoft's conference. rn rnRead More on GameRevolution
Killer Instinct 3 is on its way, will include Battletoads character
In March 2016 Season 3 will debut for Killer Instinct . This is a significant package for the title as it will include Rash, a character from Rare's Battletoads franchise. His abilities will be true to his heritage with beat 'em up combos and a big bad boot that will kick opponents in the face. Best of all, he will be free to owners of Rare Replay and/or Killer Instinct Season 2. rn rnRead More on GameRevolution
Windows 10 UI is arriving in November
We've seen it, we love it, and it'll be in our hands this November. The completely overhauled Xbox One UI is nearing the end of development and is scheduled to be pushed out this November. Based on feedback from those in the Xbox Preview Program, it is worth being very excited about, taking cues from the new and wildly successful Windows 10 operating system. rn rnSee the New UI in Action
Quantum Break shown off with final release date
Quantum Break was one of the highlights of the press conference, showing what could end up becoming the most visually impressive title on Xbox One once it arrives. We now know when that date will be, as it's been given an April 5th, 2016 release date. This is significant because it ensures that the Xbox One won't have a soft Spring line-up two years in a row. rn rnRead More on GameRevolution
Scalebound is a unique beast
Platinum Games' Scalebound is an Xbox One exclusive that allows you to command a dragon and engage in 4-player co-operative play. Although it's an action RPG, it's unlike anything we've seen before, and that's exactly what the Xbox One needs for its 2016 line-up. rn rnRead More on GameRevolution