A few insights to think about as we get ready for #TheGameAwards
Tonight is probably the shortest show we’ve done. It will still run 2.5 hours but we’ve streamlined the runtime with more focused content, fewer, bigger sponsors, and some big theatrical moments.
A shorter runtime means less potential to pick up viewers. We aren’t expecting massive livestream growth, but feel this is the right move for the industry and franchise leading into our 10th show next year.
The reveals are spaced out across the show, so we hope the pacing will feel good. There are lots of fun moments. We’ve also held back surprise presenters, performers and lots of games that aren’t pre announced.
Impressions are limited to backwards compatible content and system-level features. We have not played next-gen games.
Thoughts:
- Quick Resume is a game changer! Love being able to instantly jump in exactly where I left off.
Load times VASTLY improved across the board. I tested Fortnite, Warzone, Ori, Batman: Arkham Knight, even older titles like Modern Warfare 2 and Gears of War (the original 360 disc versions!)
Load Times + Quick Resume makes moving between games almost like Alt-TABing.
It's nice a new system works with previous gen content so seamlessly. (None of the games I played are specifically optimized for series X yet, I was playing/downloading the One X versions.)
- Microsoft store: Not working
- Walmart: Added to cart, entered info, then told sold out
- Target: Claims I have max quantity in cart but I have Zero
- Best Buy: Says Coming Soon
- GameStop: ???
Also cannot find listing on Amazon at all? Anyone?
Finally secured the bag at Amazon. But now sold out.
To me on the most compelling aspect: Xbox’s 24 month financing option: $24.99 a month for a Series S with Gamepass included and just $34.99 for an X with Gamepass.
Those offers are hugely exciting and make it easier than even to deliver on an old Xbox tag line: Jump In.
Xbox’s opportunity: Lowered barriers to entry to next-gen, great value means more games accessible to more people.
Xbox’s challenge: Showcase the generational difference. Why upgrade now? Truly exclusive next-gen software lineup seems limited for now.
Note: Games in this trailer are not meant to confirm titles in the show lineup -- these are games from across the summer. Stay tuned for announcements in coming days of specific titles debuting new content.