Latest news with #Xbox360
Hans India
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Microsoft Updates Xbox 360 Dashboard After 20 Years — With a Nudge Toward Newer Consoles
Nearly 20 years after its original debut, the Xbox 360 has received a surprise dashboard update—one that fixes a persistent UI bug but also subtly encourages users to consider newer consoles. Earlier this week, longtime Xbox 360 users were met with a redesigned home screen that finally addressed a glitch affecting game thumbnails and box art, which appeared stretched or distorted following last year's store shutdown. The visual issue has now been resolved, much to the relief of fans still booting up the beloved system. However, the update also brought a new, unexpected addition: ads promoting the Xbox Series X and Series S. According to posts on Reddit and confirmations from outlets like Kotaku and TrueAchievements, the updated dashboard now prominently displays two types of promotional banners—one showing images of the current-gen consoles, and another featuring a QR code with the message, 'Experience next gen performance.' The ads themselves are static and not interactive via the console. Users must scan the QR code with a mobile device to be redirected to the Xbox website, where they're further prompted to upgrade. Microsoft's last significant Xbox 360 update came in July 2024, shortly after the company officially closed the Xbox 360 online store. That update removed outdated tiles but inadvertently introduced the now-fixed image distortion bug. Despite its age, the Xbox 360 continues to hold a nostalgic and marketable value. Since its launch in 2005, it has remained Microsoft's top-selling console with approximately 84 million units sold globally. The system continued to be especially popular in regions such as Mexico, even after newer generations were released. Microsoft's sustained support of the Xbox 360—including updates like this one—shows its enduring legacy. Yet, with ads for modern hardware now greeting users on the home screen, the message is clear: the future of Xbox is already here.
The Verge
2 days ago
- The Verge
The Xbox 360 dashboard just got updated... to advertise newer Xboxes
Earlier this week some devoted Xbox 360 users booted up their aging consoles to find that Microsoft had updated the home screen to finally resolve an issue with box art. But in addition to that fix, several users on Reddit, as well as Kotaku, have confirmed the update also adds some sizable ads for the Xbox Series X|S consoles to the 360's dashboard, as spotted by TrueAchievements. Microsoft's last major update to the Xbox 360's dashboard came shortly after Microsoft shut down the Xbox 360 online store in July 2024, when it removed menus and tiles no longer needed. That update introduced a bug causing game thumbnails and box art to appear stretched and distorted on the home screen, but the bug has now been fixed. What's less welcome are Microsoft's not-so-subtle hints that it might be time for Xbox 360 owners to upgrade. The two different ads that now appear on the 360's dashboard include one featuring an image of the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S consoles without any text, and one featuring a QR code that leads to the Xbox website with text encouraging players to 'Experience next gen performance.' Clicking either ad does nothing at all. You'll need to pull out your smartphone or grab a tablet to visit the URL embedded in the QR code, where you'll be further enticed to upgrade to the latest Xbox model. The Xbox 360 remains Microsoft's best-selling console to date, with around 84 million units sold since it launched in 2005. It remained popular long after the release of the Xbox One, and still held a sizable market share in countries like Mexico following the release of the Xbox Series X|S. Microsoft kept its online store running for an impressive 19 years, which is a good indication of how long it was actively in use by gamers.
Metro
2 days ago
- Metro
The 20-year-old Xbox 360 just got an update and it was actually kind of worth it
In a bizarre bid to promote the Xbox Series X, Microsoft is targeting customers still holding onto their discontinued Xbox 360s. Nintendo are often described as predictably unpredictable, but sometimes other publishers will show they too can make perplexing business decisions. In this case, it's Microsoft, who's recently been talking a lot about its future hardware plans. Aside from two handheld devices scheduled to launch this year, the company announced a multi-year partnership with AMD, for its next generation of Xbox consoles. And yet the company has been compelled to make an update to the soon to be two decades old Xbox 360 and apparently it's just to promote the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. The Xbox 360 was officially discontinued in 2016; a few years after the launch of its successor, the Xbox One. So, most Xbox owners should have left it behind long ago. Microsoft must think there are enough people that still regularly use them though, to warrant updating its dashboard earlier this week. Especially as they shut the console's digital storefront down last year. For obvious reasons, Microsoft hasn't advertised the update, but awareness has spread online thanks to a post on the Xbox 360 subreddit, by Redditor trackwalker. Sign up to the GameCentral newsletter for a unique take on the week in gaming, alongside the latest reviews and more. Delivered to your inbox every Saturday morning. 360 Dashboard updated byu/trackwalker inxbox360 The update appears to only be cosmetic in nature, altering the thumbnails on the dashboard so they're not as stretched out – something that's earned approval from some fans and is likely a response to long-standing concerns about the UI. Additionally, the dashboard now features promotions for the current Xbox consoles, alongside a QR code and the phrase: 'Experience next-gen performance. Upgrade today.' More Trending Considering the Xbox Series X/S consoles came out in 2020, it's a bit late to be calling them next gen. They are very much current gen, especially when Microsoft is currently touting its next console line-up as having the 'biggest technological leap ever in a generation.' From the Xbox 360's perspective they're definitely next gen though, even if now is arguably the worst time to purchase an Xbox Series X/S. Aside from the fact that Microsoft has begun talking about newer hardware, the company has been making a big deal about how you don't need an Xbox console to access its games. Aside from PC, certain smart TVs, and the upcoming handhelds, Microsoft's begun porting its Xbox exclusives to PlayStation and Nintendo platforms; a decision clearly made in response to the Xbox Series X/S' ever worsening sales. Not to mention Microsoft jacked up the price of the consoles last month, with the Xbox Series X now £499.99 (a £20 increase) and the Xbox Series S at £299.99 (a £50 increase). Email gamecentral@ leave a comment below, follow us on Twitter. To submit Inbox letters and Reader's Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use our Submit Stuff page here. For more stories like this, check our Gaming page. MORE: Xbox layoffs could put 2,000 video game developers out of work, says insider MORE: Xbox aggregated game library coming to PC with hints of Steam support MORE: Xbox VR headset officially announced and it's much more expensive than normal
Time of India
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Top 5 most underrated RPGs to try in 2025
The RPGs are majorly dominated by games like Elden Dragon, but there are many other exceptional titles that never got the spotlight, and they remained mostly hidden from the world. These titles deliver depth in narrative, creativity, and engaging gameplay. For those who are seeking fresh RPGs for experiences beyond mainstream releases, the following five underrated RPGs will provide them an immersive experience. This article provides a list of the top 5 most underrated RPGs, which are more unique than the mainstream games and provide a unique experience to the players. Best underrated RPGs to tryout in 2025 Here are the following 5 best underrated RPGs from different eras and subgenres: 1. Kingdom Come: Deliverance Kingdom Come: Deliverance - Launch Trailer The game is from 15th-century Bohemia, Kingdom Come: Deliverance stands out for its realism, from its swordplay mechanics to its historically accurate setting. Unlike traditional fantasy RPGs, it focuses on a grounded, immersive experience where choices carry weight. Despite its initial technical flaws, post-launch updates have refined it into one of the most unique open-world RPGs available. 2. Grim Dawn Grim Dawn Release Trailer (Feb 2016) This title is for fans who like action RPGs. The title offers deep character customization with its dual class system and fact based practical storytelling. Though it never reached mainstream success, its dedicated fanbase and expansions prove its lasting appeal. 3. Lost Odyssey Lost Odyssey - Xbox 360 Trailer [High Quality] Game designed by Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi, Lost Odyssey delivers a poignant, character-driven narrative with turn-based combat. Its emotional storytelling and beautifully designed world make it a must-play for JRPG enthusiasts. Limited to the Xbox 360, this game remains tragically underplayed despite its critical acclaim. 4. Tyranny Tyranny - Launch Trailer The game flips the traditional hero's journey by placing players in the role of a villain's enforcer. The game provides ambiguous choices, branching narrative, and unique Bronze Age setting that sets it apart from other CRPGs. Despite its innovative approach, it never gained the recognition it deserved, making it a perfect hidden gem for 2025. 5. Jade Empire Jade Empire: Special Edition trailer The game is a blend of martial arts combat with BioWare's signature storytelling. Jade Empire remains one of the studio's most original works. Its rich world, inspired by Chinese mythology, and engaging morality system make it a standout. Originally an Xbox exclusive, its later re-releases have given it new life, yet it still flies under the radar. These were the above 5 best RPG titles, which are very underrated and deserve a spotlight in 2025.
Metro
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
As a former Xbox 360 owner I don't understand Xbox today - Reader's Feature
A reader looks back on the Xbox 360 era and is frustrated at how things have evolved since then, with ROG Xbox Ally and the move towards multiformat releases. I though the Xbox Games Showcase on Sunday was pretty good. Like Sony's State of Play, it was mostly third party games but there was some interesting stuff there and I think overall the vibe was better than from Sony. I liked the look of High On Life 2, There Are No Ghosts At The Grand, and Cronos: The New Dawn the best but there was a lot of potentially cool games – I'd include Keeper, because it looked interestingly weird, but I don't feel Double Fine are ever very good at gameplay. The biggest news out of the event was the new portable with the terrible name: Asus ROG Xbox Ally. I bet you can just imagine some parent asking that for that at shop at Christmas, to buy their kid? Not that that would ever happen because the thing's going to be stupidly expensive. It seemed like a distraction, a small experiment at best, and I didn't really pay much attention to it, especially as I already have a Steam Deck. But then today I read that Microsoft has cancelled its plans for their next gen portable and that actually this ridiculously named non-Xbox device may end up being the future of gaming for Microsoft. I've always preferred Xbox as my console as choice, probably because I was always a PC gamer before that. Although now I look back at things I have to admit that I only got the Xbox One out of brand loyalty and I wouldn't have if I'd been thinking about it more clearly. By that point I was in too deep and so I bought the Xbox Series X/S out of muscle memory more than anything, wasn't I proven to be a chump? What frustrates me most about Xbox at the moment is how indecisive it seems. I almost didn't watch the Xbox Games Showcase because I knew I'd have to see Phil Spencer, or one of his goons, grinning into the camera, as if nothing is wrong. And, of course, that's exactly what he did, 'hinting' about the return of Halo, as if everyone was going to be pumping the air to hear about that. Sign up to the GameCentral newsletter for a unique take on the week in gaming, alongside the latest reviews and more. Delivered to your inbox every Saturday morning. News flash, Phil: no one cares. You've run that series into the ground, like all the other Xbox exclusives, to the point where they just feel old fashioned and tired. Old school fans don't care and newer ones definitely don't. It may sell okay at first on PlayStation 5, but only out of curiosity and as a kind of celebration that Sony has finally defeated Microsoft. To all extents and purposes, Xbox is now third party. The only thing that makes them not is that they still make their own console hardware but how long is that going to last? The ROG Ally is made by Asus and if Microsoft don't make a handheld are they really going to put out a home console instead? That's going to cost a lot of money in R&D and marketing and everything else, and I don't know who could argue that it's got a chance of selling more than the Xbox Series X/S. Phil Spencer has been talking about making a handheld for years and yet suddenly it's not going to happen? Is there anything that is set in stone? I even heard people talking about them going back to having exclusives with the next generation, if it seemed like things were working out. I loved my Xbox 360, it's still my favourite console of all time – the perfect balance between modern and retro games – but its golden era is a long time ago now, well over a decade. Xbox at the time was the new kid on the block, full of new ideas and daring to what Sony wouldn't or couldn't. When was the last time Xbox did anything like that? Game Pass probably, and that hasn't worked out at all well. More Trending Nothing has, ever since that disastrous Xbox One reveal, and I just don't understand how a company with basically infinite resources, and which already owns half the games industry, can be such a hopeless mess. I'm just sticking with PC from now and in the future, I'm going to pretend the Xbox 360 was my one and only console. By reader Cramersauce The reader's features do not necessarily represent the views of GameCentral or Metro. You can submit your own 500 to 600-word reader feature at any time, which if used will be published in the next appropriate weekend slot. Just contact us at gamecentral@ or use our Submit Stuff page and you won't need to send an email. MORE: The 5 worst mistakes of the Nintendo Switch 2 launch (and why it doesn't matter) - Reader's Feature MORE: Nintendo Switch 2: does it deserve the hate? - Reader's Feature MORE: I've had the Nintendo Switch 2 for one day and I'm not impressed – Reader's Feature
