X019 is going to bring the games, games, games, and games.

What you need to know

• X019 is Microsoft's gaming celebration that takes place in November.
• The focus of the event is going to be on "games, games, games" from the looks of it.
• In the past, the Inside Xbox show accompanying the event has been criticized for recycled announcements.

In a few weeks, X019 takes place in London. The event is Microsoft's celebration of gaming and will be filled with a lot of new reveals. In the past, the Inside Xbox show that has accompanied the event has been focused on smaller announcements, and not that many games. Well, it seems like the company took the hint this time around.

Recently, Xbox's Aaron Greenberg was asked what was going to be the focus of the show. He replied, "games, games, games, games, games." This is definitely great news, and hopefully, new Microsoft exclusives will be announced at the event. However, only time will tell.

Our X019 show is focused on games, games, games, games, games. 🙌🏻

— Aaron Greenberg (@aarongreenberg) October 31, 2019

We're expecting more details about Project xCloud and Project Scarlett to be revealed then. However, only time will tell. What are you hoping for from the event? Let us know.

Best of the best

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

It'll last you a couple of months

Xbox Game Pass gives you access to over 200 games for one monthly fee. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also adds Xbox Live Gold to the package so you can play online with your friends.

$45 at Amazon

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Escape prison and face your wrongdoers, with a friend.

What you need to know

• A Way Out is a two-player co-op game developed by Hazelight Studios and published by EA.
• Previously, A Way Out was only available in EA Access for PlayStation 4.
• A Way Out is now available in EA Access on Xbox One.
• You can subscribe to EA Access through Amazon.

A Way Out released back in 2018 as part of the EA Originals program. Developed by Hazelight Studios and directed by Josef Fares (known for his strong opinions on the Oscars) it's a game that features a unique mechanic: it must be played by two players and both players can see the other's screen, even online.

While A Way Out was added to the EA Access Vault for PlayStation 4 when the subscription service came to PlayStation earlier this year, it hasn't been available in the Vault on Xbox One.That has recently changed, as confirmed on the official EA Access page. If you have EA Access on Xbox One, you can now play A Way Out. Obviously, you'll need to find a friend to play with.

EA Access has seen several high-profile additions this year, including Battlefield V and Anthem. In addition to giving players access to the Vault, EA Access also provides discounts if you want to purchase any EA games or DLC. Players can also try out many games before they release.

Get access

EA Access 12 month subscription

$30 at Amazon

Get access to plentiful EA games

EA Access is a subscription service that gives players access (appropriately) to plenty of different EA games, including Anthem, Titanfall 2 and Battlefield V. Players also get discounts on any games or DLC they purchase.

Looks like another game is on the way.

What you need to know

• Outlast is an incredibly popular horror game franchise.
• Developer The Red Barrels may be working on another entry.
• A cryptic image with ties to the original Outlast was posted on Twitter.
• A reveal for Outlast 3 may be happening very soon.

Outlast is one of the best horror games out there, and after Outlast 2, may gamers were left wondering what's next for the franchise. Today, developer The Red Barrels, posted a cryptic image on its Twitter account saying that an announcement was coming soon.

Announcement coming soon. pic.twitter.com/oZIKMCFHLp

— Red BOO-rrels 👻 (@TheRedBarrels) October 31, 2019

Hopefully, this is Outlast 3 and not an expansion. It probably is a new game because it's been a few years since Outlast 2 launched and, I'm positive I remember that the developer said that Outlast 2 wasn't getting any expansions. However, only time will tell. We'll keep you posted as soon as an official reveal occurs.

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Well, this can't be good.

What you need to know

• Fallout 76 is an action game from Bethesda, that is owned by ZeniMax.
• The company has been ordered to issue refunds who asked for them a while back.
• This ruling took place in Australia.

Fallout 76 has had a hard time recently, and the Fallout 1st reveal didn't go according to plan. However, it looks like the game's misfortunes aren't over yet. Today, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) ordered ZeniMax to refund consumers for Fallout 76. The press release said the following.

The ACCC has accepted a court-enforceable undertaking from three related video gaming companies after they acknowledged they were likely to have misled consumers about their consumer guarantee rights in relation to the online action game Fallout 76. The companies... together, ZeniMax... accepted that their actions were likely to have contravened the Australian Consumer Law... The ACCC received complaints that ZeniMax representatives told consumers that they were not entitled to a refund after they had experienced a variety of faults with the Fallout 76 game, including, in some cases, problems with the servers, lagging, graphic, and visual problems... ZeniMax has acknowledged that they are likely to have misled... consumers about their rights to a refund when they experienced faults with their...game... ZeniMax will offer to provide refunds to consumers who contacted them... to request a refund and have not already received one. Consumers who accept a refund will no longer be entitled to access and play the game.

It's great to see that the ACCC is helping those consumers who were denied a refund. Hopefully, ZeniMax will be more careful in the future when advertising games and putting them out in broken states.

War has changed

Fallout 76

$30 at Amazon

West Virginia is calling

Fallout 76 is a major change for the Fallout franchise. This game lets players see the irradiated lands of West Virginia as they try to rebuild, constructing their own home bases and in a first - playing online with friends.

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Prepare for a bumpy ride into Modern Warfare.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare has debuted worldwide, reviving Activision's bestselling shooter through the contemporary lens. From advanced operations to guerrilla warfare, the series' latest packs content for all across its grim campaign and thrilling multiplayer modes. And while Modern Warfare builds on strong foundations, that comes with a significant range of bugs and issues. We've rounded up all reported problems at launch, spanning Xbox, PlayStation, and PC.

General Call of Duty: Modern Warfare bugs and issues

With Call of Duty: Modern Warfare experiencing a bumpy debut across all platforms, these are the common issues players are facing.

Multiplayer server issues

Modern Warfare's multiplayer servers continue to experience launch issues, as now expected from any major video game's opening week. Connectivity issues may prevent sign-in, slow matchmaking, and reduce overall multiplayer performance. While stability improved over the October 25 release, expect further upgrades over the coming days.

Freezing and crashing

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare has launched with well-documented stability issues. Alongside isolated platform-specific flaws, general freezing and crashing are reported on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC. While Infinity Ward issued a title update to counter crashes, they're still a regular occurrence for many.

Audio bugs and issues

General audio issues appear to be affecting Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC users. Hitching, cracking, and other distortions lie among reported bugs, although with no formal fix. Adjusting the game's audio bitrate may eliminate issues, but other settings may bear improved results for some.

Xbox One-specific bugs and fixes

Xbox One X crashes

Xbox One X users report regular crashes when playing Call of Duty: Modern Warfare at launch. While freezing appears widespread, many Xbox One X users also report full console shutdowns. Infinity Ward has acknowledged the issue, assuring work on a fix is underway with aid from Microsoft. While the studio hasn't provided a formal workaround, we've experienced reduced crashes when installing the title on an external hard drive over the console's 1TB integrated storage.

Unofficial workaround: Install Call of Duty: Modern Warfare on an external hard drive.

Xbox One X screen tearing

Xbox One X consoles may exhibit screen tearing across Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. The result of new frames pushed to your display mid-refresh, two separate images may display on two halves of the screen. While a formal fix will require an update from Infinity Ward, enabling FreeSync may provide temporary improvements if your display supports FreeSync-over-HDMI.

Unofficial workaround: Enable FreeSync via the Xbox One settings if using a display compatible with FreeSync over HDMI.

PC-specific bugs and fixes

Stuttering cutscenes

Modern Warfare users on PC report regular stuttering while viewing campaign cutscenes. Infinity Ward has acknowledged the issue, confirming a fix is in the works. While the issue appears to stem from background disk usage, no formal workaround has been provided.

High CPU usage

Modern Warfare may cause temporary high CPU usage on PC, in some cases resulting in stutters or crashes.

Screen flickering

PC users report flickering overlays across Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, including face masks, gas masks, and blood splatters. With no current workaround, stay tight for future updates.

Dev Error 6065

Modern Warfare PC may present the "Dev Error 6065" message while in-game. Infinity Ward has acknowledged the issue, with work underway on a fix. In the meantime, Infinity Ward recommends adjusting your graphics settings until a future update.

Official workaround: Lower your graphics settings until a fix.

Dev Error 6165

Modern Warfare PC may present the "Dev Error 6165" message while in-game. Infinity Ward has acknowledged the issue, with work underway on a fix. In the meantime, Infinity Ward recommends attempting "Scan and Repair" through the Battle.net application. If unsuccessful, a full re-install may be required.

Official workaround: Initiate a "Scan and Repair" via the Battle.net application or fully re-install the game.

Unable to access graphics options

Graphics options may be inaccessible to some Modern Warfare PC players. Infinity Ward has acknowledged the issue, with work underway on a fix. However, the studio suggests removing the player folder in Documents > Call of Duty: Modern Warfare as a potential fix.

Official workaround: Delete the player folder in Documents > Call of Duty: Modern Warfare.

Miscellaneous PC issues

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare also packs an assortment of reported miscellaneous bugs and issues across PC. Expect updates to this list as new issues surface, with further information on existing cases.

• Lagging and unresponsive menus
• Inconsistent mouse and keyboard inputs
• Issues when loading textures and shaders
• Problems with multi-monitor setups

Have we missed issues you're experiencing with Modern Warfare on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, or PC? Let us know in the comments section.

Next level combat

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare

$60 at Amazon

Times have changed

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare raises the stakes once again in 2019. Infinity Ward brings a raw and provocative take on the first-person shooter, shining a gritty light on the changing nature of modern combat.

I wonder what Devil May Cry smells like.

What you need to know

• Capcom Store Tokyo has a lot of amazing merchandise.
• There's a perfume collection featuring various Capcom games.
• The perfumes seem to be exclusive to the Capcom Store Tokyo launch.

Capcom is a somewhat eccentric company and for the Capcom Store Tokyo's grand opening, the team wanted to go all out. Aside from featuring games and other merchandise, the event is stocked with perfumes. Now, you might be wondering what's so special about these bottles. Well, let me tell you.

If you want to imbue yourself with the distinctive smell of Devil May Cry or Monster Hunter, you can do so because they're branded perfumes. It's unclear if the smells are custom for each game or just generic rebrands of existing products. Either way, it's still pretty neat.

While people who don't attend the grand opening of the Capcom Store Tokyo probably won't be able to get their hands on the perfumes, they'll probably pop up on eBay soon enough. We'll just have to wait until then, if that day ever arrives.

Best of the best

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

It'll last you a couple of months

Xbox Game Pass gives you access to over 200 games for one monthly fee. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also adds Xbox Live Gold to the package so you can play online with your friends.

$45 at Amazon

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Watch out for those dragons!

What you need to know

• Citadel: Forged with Fire is now available on Xbox One.
• The game blends Skyrim-like magic with Conan Exiles-like building mechanics.
• The title has garnered great reviews on Steam recently.
• You can purchase it for $40 on the Microsoft Store.

At Windows Central, we always try to bring you news about interesting upcoming games. Today, we're going to talk about Citadel: Forged with Fire. According to developer Blue Isle Studios, the game is a massive online sandbox role-playing game with elements of magic, spellcasting, and war. As a newly-minted apprentice, you set off to investigate the dangerous world of Ignus. Your goal is simply to create a name for yourself.

Just like Conan Exiles, you can build massive castles, tame beasts to do your bidding, and visit uncharted territories to uncover their mysteries. The game has been available on Steam since 2017, but it's finally available on Xbox One and PlayStation 4 for $40. The game is Xbox One X Enhanced and runs at 4K resolution on the system. The performance is also stable at 30 frames per second.

Conan Exiles meets Skyrim

Citadel: Forged with Fire

Conquer the wilds

Citadel: Forged with Fire is a Conan Exile-like action game that throws you into an unknown land filled with magic and deadly creatures.

$40 at Best Buy$40 at GameStop$40 at Microsoft Store

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This looks amazing!

What you need to know

• Terminator: Dark Fate is out now in theaters.
• Microsoft teamed up with Paramount to release a custom Xbox One X.
• You can win it by entering the Twitter giveaway.

Do you love custom consoles? Are you a collector? Well, you're in luck. Today, Microsoft revealed a custom Xbox One X that features a Terminator: Dark Fate theme. The highlight of the device has to be the amazing console that has a melting Terminator skull on it. The message Windows Central received from Microsoft said the following.

To celebrate the release of Paramount Pictures' newest entry in the Terminator movie mythos, Xbox and Paramount created a one-of-a-kind, custom Xbox One X in the design of Terminator: Dark Fate. Xbox teased on Twitter the custom console on Monday of this week, offering a cryptic glimpse, and on Friday morning will unveil the full design featuring the mechanic skull of the new Rev-9 Terminator. Maybe the best part, the Rev-9 Terminator's red eye lights up when the custom Xbox is connected to power!

Starting November 1 and running through November 15, Microsoft will host a giveaway on Twitter for the extremely limited edition Xbox One X. All you have to do is like, retweet, and comment on which side of the fight you're on. Hopefully, you favor humanity, but, honestly, the way things are going, no one would blame you if you wanted the machines to win.

Want to win a @Terminator Xbox One X, Gears 5, and the new Terminator DLC?

• RT and ❤️ this tweet
• Comment which side you support, Humanity or the Machines
• Tag #DarkFateXGears5Sweepstakes#TerminatorDarkFate now in theatres. Rules: https://t.co/GXl2TGCRCIpic.twitter.com/NtCR6wXzsk

— Xbox (@Xbox) November 1, 2019

The winner will receive the console as well as a code for Gears 5: Ultimate Edition. However, the winner will also get a second Xbox One X so that they can display the Terminator console wherever they want.

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About those leaked Year 4 Season 4 Operators...

Ubisoft soon unveils its next Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege update, further expanding the hit multiplayer shooter through regular seasonal drops. Year 4 Season 4 is the final installment of the studio's annual roadmap, once again set to feature two new Operators and a map rework. And while Ubisoft withholds details for its November 10 event, a recent leak provides what looks to be 2019's closing recruits.

Season 4's first tell-all comes via a reputable Rainbow Six leakster, previously nailing down Burnt Horizon, Phantom Sight, and Ember Rise ahead of launch. That gives considerable backing to the authenticity of its contents, parallel with speculative chatter in recent weeks. While it's generally best to approach leaks with caution, it looks to be the real deal – and a promising conclusion to Year 4.

Carving new Operator roles in familiar places

Official word from Ubisoft relies on its earlier Year 4 roadmap, listing new Indian and Kenyan Operators, supported by a refresh of Theme Park. The leak further expands on the figures and their gadgetry, although failing to provide names.

Fresh Indian talent spearheads the attacking lineup, kitted out with a bolt-action rifle and anti-gadget capabilities. Converging with Thatcher's throwable EMP, the grenade launcher-style device charges up and fires EMP projectiles. The new Kenyan Operator is slated to deliver much-needed competition for Jager, packaged with a deployable that "sucks in" and triggers grenades.

Both alleged gadgets fulfill familiar, but desired roles in the Rainbow Six roster, aligning with the broader consensus on the current state of play. Their concepts provide alternatives to two largely unchallenged Operators for potentially valuable diversity to the gameplay meta.

What Year 4 Season 4 means for gameplay

The offensive Season 4 newcomer expands on two roles that, while already present, benefit from diversity in the Pick and Ban era. While Twitch drones and IQ's scanner prove valuable for counter-electronic plays, no Operator encroaches Thatcher's efficiency and reach. With a healthy pool of gadgets to deny hard breaching, an alternative was inevitable as the Operator pool scales.

How Ubisoft implements the tool will prove essential in how the Indian differs from Thatcher. Zofia's fast-firing launcher comes to mind, potentially adding range and speed over the throwable. The charge period also looks to introduce an additional element of syncing with hard-breaching allies.

That bolt-action rifle is a welcome sight too, dropping after traces of animations surfaced among game files. The new firearm class would be hugely appreciated, ending a dry spell of recycled weaponry in recent seasons. And for gameplay, it indicates high-caliber competition in Glaz's ballpark.

Glaz has proven challenging for Ubisoft since inception, buffed with thermal optics after failing to establish a dominant gameplay role. Since downgraded to reduce mobility, recent balancing data suggests the sniper falls in a tight spot. But while Glaz is defined exclusively by his rifle, the bolt-action's pairing with a gadget could be her crucial differentiator to avoid past missteps.

The prospect of Jager's competition also bears promise, evoking a sense of risk versus reward via its complexity. Revising its approach eliminates the hard counter of the existing ADS, now capturing and detonating those projectiles.

That additional layer retains the fundamentals of Jager's denial and ensures a safeguard for defenders. However, effective will stress placement, either at the benefit or detriment of the squad. The detonation could backfire on defenders, wiping out nearby gadgets and unknowing allies, or trigger a careless grenade in the face of attackers.

Kenya's loadout contributions are also unclear and will be a key bearing on the final Operator's role. Jager boasts formidable fragging capabilities his M416 and three-speed combo, eventually leading to the removal of his ACOG sight. With a leaked rival reportedly weighed down to a one-speed physique, could we see the return of the scope?

The alleged first glimpse promises a valuable conclusion to Year 4 and potentially impactful shake up the core Operator roles. While lacking the spectacle of some past seasons, proposed concepts could fill much-needed entries to advance the meta further.

Rainbow Six Siege Year 4 Season 4 is set November 10 unveiling, during the Rainbow Six Pro League Finals in Tokoname, Japan.

Eyes on target

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege

Addictive, challenging shooter action

Ubisoft's hit shooter is hotter than ever, touting tense tactical gameplay, and regular free updates. With millions of players in 2019, Rainbow Six isn't slowing down.

$26 at Amazon

Don't miss what could be Blizzard's biggest BlizzCon in years.

What you need to know

• BlizzCon 2019 is being held on November 1.
• The livestream is anticipated to hold several major announcements.
• Several of these announcements have already possibly been leaked.
• You can watch the livestream in the video below.

BlizzCon 2019 has arrived, bringing fans a place to gather and celebrate Blizzard games (or express displeasure). For those of you who are just watching at home for the announcements, the livestream is beginning at 11:00 a.m. PT, 2:00 p.m. ET, 6:00 p.m. GMT and 5:00 a.m. AEST. While a ticket is required to see all of the different panels, the opening ceremony and announcements are free for everyone. You can watch the livestream in the video below:

If you prefer Twitch to YouTube, you can also watch the livestream on the Blizzard Twitch channel. We'll be covering the event as news breaks, so if you can't watch the full stream, we'll have all the major news covered here on Windows Central.

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By three they come.

At BlizzCon 2019, Blizzard revealed the long-awaited Diablo IV, latest in the series of top-down, demon-obliterating games. Diablo IV is a sort of return to form for the series, with art and styles that longtime fans will appreciate. Blizzard stated that the game is a world of gore, occultism, and horror, where victories are never clean or guaranteed.

What is Diablo IV?

Diablo IV is the long-anticipated sequel to Diablo III, which first released on PC back in 2011. At BlizzCon 2019, Blizzard confirmed that multiple Diablo titles were in development, one of which was clearly Diablo IV. You can check out the Diablo IV reveal trailer below:

What does Diablo IV's gameplay look like?

While Diablo IV is using a far harsher tone than Diablo III, the gameplay is still classic top-down action-RPG. There will be friendly towns where you can meet up and trade with other players. There'll also be PvP zones. You can take a look at the first gameplay trailer here:

Diablo IV features

Veteran fans of the series will notice that Diablo IV is taking a much darker tone all around. The art style and mood are grittier, meant to evoke the harshness of the world, like in Diablo II. Bleak tones and Gothic architecture dominate the visuals. The reveal trailer further emphasized this harsh, oppressive tone. There are three classes that have been revealed so far: the Barbarian, Druid and Sorceress. Diablo IV is coming to Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and PC.

When will Diablo IV release?

There's no release date right now but Diablo IV will likely be released sometime in 2020.

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Getting the gang back together...again.

Overwatch 2 has been announced at BlizzCon 2019 after being leaked over the past couple of weeks. While the original Overwatch lacked any sort of campaign, with a story that was told via character videos and special, seasonal event flashbacks from time to time, Overwatch 2 is clearly addressing that issue, with story missions and a full narrative.

What is Overwatch 2?

Overwatch 2 is the sequel to 2016's Overwatch. Characters like Tracer, Brigitte and more return. In fact, all 31 heroes are returning and there are some new heroes as well. You can check out the cinematic reveal trailer for Overwatch 2 below.

Overwatch 2 features

For players of the original game, your time will be respected. All the cosmetics you unlocked will be coming forward into Overwatch 2. One of the biggest new mechanics in Overwatch 2 is the ability for the game to share a multiplayer pool with the original Overwatch. The two games will share a PvP pool. Overwatch 2 features engine upgrades that Blizzard will be talking more about later. There's also a new PvE story mode, new maps and more. You can check out the first gameplay trailer for Overwatch 2 below.

When will Overwatch 2 launch?

There's no release date right now and platforms have not been confirmed at this time.

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Be on the lookout for these titles!

What you need to know

• Many new games are coming to Xbox One next week.
• Experiences like Just Dance 2020 and Need for Speed Heat are probably the most prominent.
• Almost all of the games are Xbox One X Enhanced.
• You can preorder many of these titles through the Microsoft Store today.

Every week, numerous games launch on Xbox One, but which ones truly stand out? Here are some of the biggest and most anticipated titles launching across Microsoft's platforms next week. We have a few new smaller releases on Xbox One, but there are still a few surprises here and there. Notably, Just Dance 2020 is finally launching on the console, and Need for Speed Heat offers an interesting take on the racing genre. With that in mind, here are all the best games launching next week, between November 4 and 8.

Most anticipated Xbox One games for 2019 and beyond

Just Dance 2020

Just Dance 2020 is the ultimate dance game with 40 hot tracks from chart-topping hits like God is a Woman by Ariana Grande to High Hopes by Panic! At The Disco. Keep the party going for hours with songs for the whole family to enjoy!

Just Dance 2020 should launch on November 5, priced at $40.

It's back!

Just Dance 2020

Dance all night

Keep the party going with the latest hits like God is a Woman by Ariana Grande and much more.

$40 at Microsoft Store

Need for Speed Heat

EA debuted gameplay for Need for Speed Heat at Gamescom 2019. It's hard to innovate on the racing formula, but Need for Speed certainly looks better than ever. The company describes it as "a vibrant street-racer where daytime is a bright sunny, urban environment and night a dangerous neon playground."

Need for Speed Heat should launch on November 8, starting at $60. The game runs at 4K resolution on Xbox One X. EA Access members get a discount with their subscription.

!-- BEGIN RECO-BLOCK -->

Vroom vroom

Need for Speed Heat

Disobey the law

$60 at Microsoft Store

Hustle by day and risk it all at night in Need for Speed Heat, a thrilling race experience that pits you against a city's rogue police force as you battle your way into street racing's elite.

So many games

EA Access

12-month subscription

EA Access is a gaming service that lets you play tons of awesome EA games in a massive, and growing, collection. Try brand-new games before launch day and save 10 percent on EA digital purchases on Xbox One.

$30 at Amazon

These are the biggest games launching soon, and many of them seem like absolutely thrilling experiences. Be sure to check out Just Dance 2020 and Need for Speed Heat because they appear to be the most unique games out of the lot. Which titles are you interested in? Let us know.

Other experiences like Alwa's Awakening, The Elder Scrolls Online: Dragonhold, Stay Cool, Kobayashi-san!: A River City Ransom Story, Sturmwind EX, Tanky Tanks, and Wizards of Brandel should also release next week. If you're looking for a break between those heavy-hitters, be sure to check out these games because they're a lot of fun.

Best of the best

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Live Gold in one

Xbox Game Pass gives you access to over a hundred games for one monthly fee. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also adds Xbox Live Gold to the package so you can play online with your friends.

$45 at Amazon

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We're not going to be jumping into story missions for a while.

What you need to know

• Blizzard announced Overwatch 2 during the opening ceremony of BlizzCon 2019.
• No release date has been announced for Overwatch 2.
• According to Blizzard, the release date won't be announced for some time yet.
• You can grab the original Overwatch for $33 at Amazon.

One of Blizzard's multiple announcements during BlizzCon 2019 was Overwatch 2, an ostensible sequel that is bringing engine improvements, new heroes, story missions and more, while keeping the same multiplayer playerbase as the original game. In fact, players of both games will be able to play multiplayer together. Unfortunately, if you were hoping to find out when you'd jump into Overwatch 2 soon, it'll be a while yet.

Speaking to VG247, Jeff Kaplan, game director at Blizzard of Overwatch 2, confirmed that the release date won't be revealed for some time. "I know it's a lame answer, I'm super sorry, and it's not like this top-secret thing that the last thing we want to tell players. It's just that we don't know," Kaplan told VG247. "What's important to us at Blizzard, on all our games, is that the game is awesome and the players are like 'Yes, this is ready and now's the time.' I don't have a date, it's not this year, that's a pretty safe answer. I have a feeling we'll be talking about Overwatch 2 again next year at BlizzCon. If that helps."

Kaplan also told VG247 that players shouldn't expect a very large amount of new characters at launch, though he did reaffirm that there will be multiple new heroes alongside the 31 from the original game. Whenever the release date is announced, we'll be sure to keep you posted. Overwatch 2 is promising to be an interesting sequel, keeping playerbases united while providing story content for those who have been craving it.

Get prepped

Overwatch

$33 at Amazon

Heroes never die

Overwatch is a PvP game that brings together different heroes from multiple factions. Clashing across maps, there's a ton of items to unlock, all of which will carry forward into Overwatch 2.

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Frozen mountains and treacherous swamps await.

What you need to know

• Diablo IV was recently announced at BlizzCon 2019.
• Blizzard has since released a bunch of concept art for the game.
• This concept art shows the dark, Gothic art direction, a more open world and some of the evils lurking about.
• Diablo IV currently does not have a release date.

Diablo IV was announced at BlizzCon 2019. While it's still early days, Blizzard has released a sizeable amount of information on the game. Blizzard has also shared a fair bit of concept art, which shows the dark, haunted direction of the game. Below, you can check out artwork of some of the five regions in the game that Blizzard has released, alongside artwork of the different enemies, classes and more. First up is the region of Scosglen.

This is the realm of Druids, a place where savage nature has taken hold. Werewolves lurk in the forests, while a new enemy type called the Drowned waits along the shores. Next up is the Fractured Peaks.

This snowy region is home to an order of monks, who take shelter from the harsh weather and frigid climate. Deep below, there are dark things stirring. Finally, we have some concept art of Hawezar.

These swamps are home to witches and snakes, with treachorous things creeping through the mire. The full game will have five regions: Scosglen, Fractured Peaks, Dry Steppes, Hawezar and Kejhistan. These will combine for one seamless overworld that has distinct, different locations.

Here, you can see the three classes that have been revealed so far. There'll be five when the game releases but for now, we know about the Barbarian, Druid and Sorceress. You can take at concept art of these three classes and their legendary sets of equipment below.

Powerful heroes need powerful opponents and Diablo IV seems to have those in spades. Herds of bestial Goatmen are roaming the wilds, encroaching on civilization. Duriel, one of the Lesser Evils and the Lord of Pain, is making a return after last appearing (and only appearing) in Diablo II. Finally, the big bad, main antagonist of the game is Lilith, Queen of Succubi.

There's no release date right now and according to Blizzard, the game isn't coming anytime soon. Whenever it does, it'll be available on Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and PC. We'll be sure to keep you posted on any other news or updates we learn about Diablo IV.

Related: Diablo IV has been announced, showing a world of evil and darkness, here's everything we know

Get caught up

Diablo III: Ultimate Evil Edition

$20 at Amazon

Evil is waiting

Diablo III continues the story of the Diablo series, with multiple classes to choose from and the Reaper of Souls expansion included, this is the best way to play Diablo III.

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Xbox One X from $380 at AmazonXbox One S from $249 at Amazon

• Xbox One S vs. Xbox One X: Which should you buy?
• Best Xbox One X and Xbox One S Accessories
• Best Xbox One Headsets 2019
• Best Xbox One Wireless Headsets 2019
• Best Xbox Controller Charging Stations in 2019

All the Xbox Game Pass PC titles available for Windows 10, with a tease of what's coming next.

Xbox Game Pass, Microsoft's Netflix-style subscription service, has shaken up Xbox One gaming with its rotating games library. Over 100 titles for a flat $10 monthly fee promises considerable value for players – and Microsoft has expanded with a PC debut for the service. From Microsoft's leading exclusives to innovative indies, we've wrapped up a full Xbox Game Pass PC games list under the subscription today.

Note: Newly added titles are highlighted in bold.

All you can play

Xbox Game Pass for PC

$1/mo at Microsoft

More games than you'll ever need

Microsoft's Netflix-style subscription service extends to PC, serving varied titles for a monthly fee. From hit franchises to experimental indies, Xbox Game Pass has value for all.

Which PC games support Xbox Game Pass?

Xbox Game Pass for PC first launches with a varied lineup of titles, served via the Microsoft Store, exclusively on Windows 10 devices. Here's a list of the available games so far.

• ABZU
• ACA NEOGEO METAL SLUG X for Windows
• Age of Empires Definitive Edition
• Ape Out
• Apocalipsis
• ARK: Survival Evolved
• ASTRONEER
• Bad North: Jotuun Edition
• Bards Tale IV: Director's Cut
• Battle Chasers: Nightwar
• Battle Chef Brigade Deluxe
• Battlefleet Gothic: Armada
• Blair Witch
• Blazing Chrome
• Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
• Bomber Crew
• Book of Demons
• Bridge Constructor Portal
• Broforce
• Brothers: a Tale of Two Sons
• Cities: Skylines
• Clustertruck
• Crackdown 3
• Creature in the Well
• CrossCode
• Dead Cells
• Dead Rising 4
• Die for Valhalla!
• DiRT Rally 2.0
• Dishonored 2
• Disneyland Adventures
• Downwell
• Enter the Gungeon
• EVERSPACE
• F1 2018
• Felix The Reaper
• FEZ
• Football Manager 2019
• For The King
• Forza Horizon 4 Standard Edition
• Full Metal Furies
• Gears of War 4
• Gears of War: Ultimate Edition for Windows 10
• Gears 5
• Goat Simulator Windows 10
• Gonner Blüeberry Edition
• Guacamelee! 2
• Halo Wars 2
• Halo Wars 2: Standard Edition
• Halo Wars: Definitive Edition (PC)
• Halo: Spartan Assault
• Halo: Spartan Strike
• Hatoful Boyfriend
• Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice
• Hello Neighbor
• Hollow Knight
• Hotline Miami
• Hydro Thunder Hurricane
• Imperator: Rome
• Into the Breach
• Kingdom Come: Deliverance
• Kingsway
• Lichtspeer: Double Speer Edition
• MARVEL VS. CAPCOM: INFINITE
• Metro Exodus (Windows)
• Middle-earth: Shadow of War
• Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight
• Moonlighter
• MudRunner
• Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden
• My Time At Portia
• Neon Chrome
• Night Call
• Old Man's Journey
• Operencia: The Stolen Sun
• Opus Magnum
• Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition
• Orwell: Keeping an Eye On You
• Oxenfree
• Pony Island (Daniel Mullins Games)
• Prey
• ReCore
• RiME: Windows Edition
• Riptide GP: Renegade
• Rise of Nations: Extended Edition
• Rise of the Tomb Raider
• Riverbond
• Ruiner
• Rush: A DisneyPixar Adventure
• Samorost 3
• Sea of Thieves: Anniversary Edition
• Shadow Warrior 2
• Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun
• Shenmue I & II
• Silence - The Whispered World 2
• SINNER for Windows 10
• Slay The Spire
• Smoke and Sacrifice
• Snake Pass
• Space Hulk: Tactics
• State of Decay 2
• State of Decay 2: Heartland
• Stealth Inc 2: A Game of Clones
• SteamWorld Dig 2
• Stellaris
• Sunset Overdrive
• Super Lucky's Tale
• SUPERHOT - Windows 10
• Supermarket Shriek
• Surviving Mars
• Tacoma
• The Banner Saga
• The Banner Saga 2
• The Banner Saga 3
• The Bard's Tale Trilogy
• The Flame in the Flood
• The Gardens Between
• The Last Door: Season 2 Collector's Edition
• The Messenger
• The Outer Worlds
• The Stillness of the Wind
• The Surge
• The Turing Test
• Thimbleweed Park
• Thumper
• Timespinner
• Titan Quest Anniversary Edition
• Torment: Tides of Numenera
• Tyranny - Gold Edition
• Unavowed
• Undertale
• Valkyria Chronicles
• VAMPYR
• Void Bastards
• Wandersong
• Wargroove
• Wasteland 2: Director's Cut for Windows 10
• We Happy Few
• West of Loathing
• Where The Water Tastes Like Wine
• Wizard of Legend
• Wolfenstein II: Standard Edition
• Worms W.M.D
• Yoku's Island Express
• Zoo Tycoon: Ultimate Animal Collection

Upcoming Xbox Game Pass PC titles

Backing an already strong launch lineup, more titles are soon headed to Xbox Game Pass PC. All Xbox Game Studios titles on PC will be automatically included on launch day, alongside games from a growing lineup of over 75 partnered publishers and developers. Here are the titles confirmed for the future so far:

• Age Of Empires II: Definitive Edition
• Age Of Empires III: Definitive Edition
• Battletoads
• Bleeding Edge
• Gears Tactics
• Halo Infinite
• Halo: The Master Chief Collection
• Microsoft Flight Simulator
• Minecraft Dungeons
• Ori and the Will of the Wisps
• Wasteland 3

Expect this list to grow considerably going forward, as new Xbox Game Pass PC games are unveiled.

All you can play

Xbox Game Pass for PC

$1/mo at Microsoft

More games than you'll ever need

Microsoft's Netflix-style subscription service extends to PC, serving varied titles for a monthly fee. From hit franchises to experimental indies, Xbox Game Pass has value for all.

Check out a complete list of every unique gun and science weapon.

The Outer Worlds is rife with wacky weapons that have some sort of gimmick to them, whether it be a Shrink Ray that quite literally shrinks your enemy or melee weapon that rearranges their face. Obsidian calls these Science weapons, and they're easily some of the coolest — and rarest — in the game. We've compiled every unique gun and science weapon you can find in The Outer Worlds along with their locations so you know exactly where to look. All science weapons can be obtained naturally through the quest "Weapons From The Void," and vendors can sell unique items from time to time.

Note: Because The Outer Worlds just launched, this list is a work-in-progress as more players discover new science weapons and where they are found in the game. We'll continually add to it and ensure that it is up to date.

Complete list science weapons

Complete list of unique weapons

Complete list of unique armor

Welcome to Halcyon

The Outer Worlds

$60 at Amazon

Hey there spacer!

The Outer Worlds is a new science-fiction role-playing game from Obsidian Entertainment and Private Division. In the Outer colonies, find your own path through strength, cunning, assassination, friendships and anything in-between.

Pick one up right now!

What you need to know

• The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is the second iteration of the popular controller.
• This model offers Bluetooth and a rechargeable battery.
• It also features even more advanced features than its predecessor.
• It's available for $180 on the Microsoft Store.

The day many of you have been waiting for is here, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is finally available for purchase. The device is $180, and should be compatible with Microsoft's next console, Project Scarlett, when it launches in Holiday 2020. Unlike the previous model, this one features Bluetooth so you can connect it to a number of devices that utilize the standard.

Aside from Bluetooth, the controller features a built-in rechargeable battery that should give you around 40 hours of playtime. Since you don't have to insert AA cells, it not only feels lighter, but also the weight distribution is better. Many gamers will love it because of this.

While Amazon is sold out of the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, it's still available at Best Buy, GameStop, and the Microsoft Store. Supplies seem to be limited so if you see one, be sure to pick it up!

Related: Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 review

Now with Bluetooth

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

It's finally here

The all-new Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 features over 30 new ways to play, including adjustable-tension thumbsticks, new interchangeable components, up to 40 hours of rechargeable battery life, and limitless customization on Xbox One and Windows 10.

$180 at Best Buy$180 at GameStop$180 at Microsoft{.end}

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• Xbox One S vs. Xbox One X: Which should you buy?
• Best Xbox One X and Xbox One S Accessories
• Best Xbox One Headsets 2019
• Best Xbox One Wireless Headsets 2019
• Best Xbox Controller Charging Stations in 2019

We finally got our hands on the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. We're still working on an in-depth examination for our review, but the early impressions are very good.

Microsoft's previous Xbox Wireless Elite controller, on the face of it, seemed like a bit of an odd product. Who would want to pay $150 for a video game controller? As it turned out, Microsoft couldn't manufacture them fast enough to meet demand, for a while at least. It wasn't long after it launched that people noticed issues with the construction, with the rubber grips notoriously slipping due to subpar adhesive work. Others reported issues with the bumpers, too. I experienced the rubber grips falling off not on one but two Elite controllers since it launched in 2015. For all of its incredible features, that isn't really the experience you want when paying a premium price.

Say hi to the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, which takes everything that made the original so great, and dials it up to 11. We haven't been hands-on for long enough to detail a full review (we really want to test the quality on the grips before assigning a score). That said, early impressions are extremely good.

Now with Bluetooth

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

$180 at Microsoft

If you're already convinced, the Elite Controller Series 2 is available to preorder right now, ahead of its November 4, 2019 launch.

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 refines everything

As great as the previous Elite Controller felt, it feels like a toy compared to the Series 2. Microsoft clearly put a lot of work into addressing every fault it found with the previous effort, while also cramming in tons of new features.

The sheer amount of features makes the Xbox Elite Series 2 feel like a Swiss Army knife.

The Series 2 controller feels immaculately balanced, particularly when compared to my regular Xbox controller. This is perhaps in part owing to the internal battery, which allows for more even weight distribution than bulky AA batteries might. I've been a big proponent of having the ability to swap out my batteries if I so choose — and indeed, we won't know the quality of the Series 2's battery until we've had change for some long-form testing. But since picking up a PlayStation 4 (PS4), I have been envious of how much lighter the controller feels in hand, even if my bulky Eneloop AA batteries provided a far bigger lifespan. Microsoft says the Series 2 gets up to 40 hours on a single charge, which sounds slightly insane. I'll have to brew a ton of coffee to test that one out, I think.

Every aspect of the controller simply feels more dense, more premium than before. The soft matte finish on the body feels excellent against your thumb as you're brushing from button to button, and even the action on the Xbox nexus guide button feels more robust, with very light travel.

In my preliminary examination, I wasn't able to get a fingernail or even a guitar pick under the seams of the rubber grips this time. Microsoft seems to have paid a lot of attention to ensure they'll actually stay on this time around. It feels encouragingly sturdy.

Where the Series 2 truly ascends, though, is in its new tricks.

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is full of tricks

Microsoft has been able to bake a lot of new stuff into the Elite Series 2, and while our tests are on-going, the sheer amount of features on offer here makes the Series 2 feel more like a Swiss Army knife.

There is some seriously impressive engineering work here.

Even the carrying case has undergone some impressive changes, picking up a unique docking bay for the new charging puck, complete with a rubber stopper, which hides a small opening for the USB-C charging cable.

Speaking of the charging puck, this is a surprisingly nifty solution that dominates any other charging dock I've seen. First and foremost, Microsoft added a ton of weight to this thing, in a similar fashion to the Surface Dock. It won't slide around when you're trying to dock or undock your controller. It magnetizes nicely against the four-pin charging port on the back of the controller, and it's reversible, which is a lovely touch. In the case, it sits angled upwards. Outside of the case, you can reverse it and lay it out flat. There is some seriously impressive, meticulous engineering work here.

The new Elite Series 2 controller also comes with three separate profiles, which you can switch on the fly with a button in the center of the controller, complete with indicator light. The reverse of the controller sports the familiar paddles but now also includes a three-stage trigger lock giving you more control over how far you have to press to activate the triggers. Finally, we now also have Bluetooth, making this a viable option for Project xCloud on mobile and gaming on other compatible devices.

One of the other intriguing features is the ability to control the tension on the joysticks using a turn-key, which we haven't had the opportunity to test this out yet but I can envision various scenarios where this might be useful in shooters. The longer stick allows you for greater control away from the pivot, which can help with precision shots. By dialing up the tension on the stick, you'd also have more rapid target acquisition without losing control, in theory. We'll be testing these scenarios thoroughly as we speed towards full review.

Quite possibly the best controller ever made

From improvements in construction, remarkable new features, and a wide array of smaller refinements, it's certainly looking like Microsoft has a huge win on its hands here. We'll have to put it through the paces in greater detail as pertains to build quality, battery life, and beyond. But early signs are very positive.

Best of the best?

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

$180 at Microsoft

An extremely promising product that may very well be the best controller ever made.

At Windows Central, we have a particular focus on covering and testing gaming headsets. I have personally tested dozens upon dozens of the latest and greatest headset solutions from all sorts of manufacturers, both big and small. We've put together a list of every headset that we've tested to be the best for various user scenarios. But the best of the best right now is the Turtle Beach Elite Atlas. And if you're in the market for a new headset, Black Friday, which is right around the corner, may be the single best time of year to find deals on Xbox One headsets.

Best Overall — Turtle Beach Elite Atlas

The Turtle Beach Elite Atlas is the best all-around Xbox headset for most gamers, with incredible sound and quality at an incredibly affordable price.

Turtle Beach's Elite Atlas defies its price tag to bring an experience you'd sooner expect of far more expensive headsets. It lacks some bells and whistles like mic monitoring and configurable sound. But the raw quality is simply hard to beat (and you can always throw in extra features via an audio controller like Turtle Beach's Tactical Audio Controller. Turtle Beach has shed the neon accents its known for to court esports enthusiasts with a more subtle, sexier, industrial design. The metallic components add strength and robustness to the overall package, complete with a braided cable which should make the product last an obscenely long time.

Turtle Beach has also stepped up its customization efforts. It allows you to detach the cushioning with magnetic clasps quickly and easily, and also is planning to launch a range of customizable speaker plates on the exterior, a first for the company. The headline feature here is the sound quality. Turtle Beach works directly with game developers to tune the audio profile to accentuate footsteps, reloads, and other audio cues that would give enemy positions away. I have gotten kills as a direct result of this headset, and that's something I can rarely claim.

Who should buy this headset: The Turtle Beat Elite Atlas wins our best Xbox One headset award for a single reason: premium sound. The headset provides such a significant edge for tactical directional awareness. It grants an obvious advantage over other headsets in this price range.

Pros

• Looks great.
• Premium materials and quality.
• Sounds incredible, with 50mm neodymium drivers.
• Turtle Beach audio tuning for gaming is still the best in the business.
• Detachable mic.

Cons

• Missing features like mic monitoring.
• Audio is leaky, not great for listening in public.

Best Overall

Turtle Beach Elite Atlas

• $90 at Amazon

Premium sound for a bewilderingly low price.

The Turtle Beach Elite Atlas brings a premium headset experience for around just one hundred dollars, granting a competitive edge in shooters.

Best Value — HyperX CloudX

If you want to save a bit of cash and still have a great headset, consider the tried-and-tested HyperX CloudX. This headset has been incredibly popular for a long time for its reliability and quality. HyperX hasn't had to revise its design much since its launch.

The HyperX CloudX uses thick memory foam cushioning on the earcups and has a lightweight design, which lends itself well to its namesake. Wearing this headset feels very "cloud-like," given how lightweight and comfortable it is. The HyperX CloudX headset also sounds excellent, with a vibrant soundscape elevated by software surround solutions like Dolby Atmos and Windows Sonic. The frequency response isn't as broad as some of the other headsets on this list, but it's tuned well for gaming and music, with minimal distortion.

Who should buy this headset: If you want a cheaper headset that is reliable and built to last, complete with high-quality gaming audio, this is the best headset to get.

Pros

• Subtle design
• Durable, premium-feeling built quality
• Excellent, spacious sound
• Detachable mic

Cons

• Missing some features like mic recording monitoring
• Max volume isn't the best

Best Value

HyperX CloudX

Want to save a bit? This headset is built to last.

$50 at Amazon

If you want to save a bit and still have great sound and comfort, the HyperX CloudX is a cheaper alternative to the Turtle Beach Elite Atlas.

Best Wireless — LucidSound LS35X

LucidSound's incredible LS35X is a big step up in their repertoire, delivering crystal-clear Xbox wireless audio with some next-level comfort. The adjustable ear cups have a thick layer of coolant gel to keep your ears nice and frosty across long sessions. It makes it one of the most pleasant headsets I've ever worn.

Although it's required that you update the LS35X via a Windows PC before use, the wireless connectivity to the Xbox One is rock-solid. Using the same Xbox Wireless signal as your controller, the LS35X has eliminated the need for extra USB dongles or docks, which adds a ton of convenience to the overall package.

The sound quality is also excellent, and tuned for gaming with accentuated frequencies for sound effects like footsteps and reloads. There's no onboard surround solution, but Dolby Atmos or Windows Sonic can inject a similar experience at a software level.

Who should buy this headset: If you hate cables and want to liberate yourself of that plastic tether, the LS35X is a secure wireless solution that delivers big on both comfort and sound.

Pros

• Awesome design
• Premium build-quality and comfort
• Solid sound experience
• Surprisingly high-quality microphone

Cons

• Needs to be updated via PC first
• Max volume can produce audio distortion

Best Wireless

LucidSound LS35X

Cable-free awesomeness.

$180 at Amazon

The LucidSound LS35X is the best value wireless Xbox headset available.

Best for Pros — Astro A40 TR with MixAmp (2019)

The Astro A40 TR with MixAmp combo is the most versatile sound solution for gamers who need to mix audio from different sources. The Astro MixAmp is fully compatible to mix sound from both Xbox One and PC at the same time for game sound and communication platforms. As a game streamer, I connect my Astro A40 TR MixAmp to my PC via USB to capture Discord audio. I then connect the MixAmp to my Xbox One via SPDIF to capture game sound, mixing them in my capture software. No other MixAmp is as cheap, or as easy to use for this purpose. You can also connect it straight up to the Xbox One via USB as well, for use with Xbox party chat.

Beyond content creation, the A40 TR MixAmp also gives quick access to separate volume levels for both chat and game sound, different audio tuning profiles, and also injects 7.1 virtual surround sound to any headset you connect up to its 3.5mm jack.

The Astro A40 headset seals the deal, with optional custom speaker branding for streamers and esports aspirants, with high audio quality and a powerful microphone. The Astro A40 headset also sports excellent comfort and durability, although it might be more economical to buy the MixAmp separately, and choose one of the cheaper headsets above, unless you like the A40's sexy design.

Who should buy this headset: If you're a serious content creator who wants something that will let them combine audio from PC tools like Discord alongside game sound from Xbox One, this is a great option.

Pros

• Versatile MixAmp for mixing sound across PC and Xbox.
• 7.1 surround sound injection to any headset.
• Comfortable, durable headset.
• Great audio quality.

Cons

• Can be complex to set up.
• Very pricey if you're not going to utilize all features.

Best for Pros

Astro A40 TR & MixAmp (2019)

Esports or game-streamer aspirant?

$210 at Amazon

The Astro A40 TR MixAmp combo is a must-have piece of kit for mixing different sound sources.

Best Budget — Snakebyte Headset:X

Snakebyte makes a range of very affordable Xbox products that often defy their price point with their quality; the Headset:X is no different.

Built from highly malleable, flexible plastics, the Snakebyte Headset:X is a genuinely excellent budget headset. Despite its svelte price point, it packs some seriously impressive sound that genuinely shocked me when I came to review them. It's all thanks to the 40mm drivers with a deep base, crispy highs, and solid maximum volume.

They come complete with a detachable microphone that boasts decent quality, and a unique folding design that makes them easy to store and transport. When folded up, they can fit into the palm of your hand. The only real downside is that the earcups are a bit small to accommodate that folding design, although this makes them ideal for a younger gamer.

Who should buy this headset: If you're extremely budget conscious and still want something with excellent audio, look no further.

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Unique folding design for easy storage
• Very impressive sound
• Solid microphone

Cons:

• Ear cups are a bit small, even for my tiny ears
• "Budget" design quality
• Leaky audio

Best Budget

Snakebyte Head:Set X

Impressive budget sound

$18 at Amazon

This small, affordable headset surprises and impresses with a massive sound.

Best Premium — Astro A50 (2019)

The Astro A50 is an excellent headset for those who have the cash to splash. Full Dolby Audio, a convenient battery charging dock, full wirelessness, and incredible sound and comfort, the Astro A50 does it all.

The A50 combines Astro's signature comfort and build quality into a headset that shines at every level. It has some of the best gaming sound processing around. It has powerful 7.1 that elevates your tactical positional awareness in competitive games, while fully immersing you into your favorite virtual worlds. The wireless signal is rock solid and has an impressive range, and is complemented by a wireless charging dock and long battery life.

The A50 could do with a refresh, but the fact the product hasn't changed a great deal in several years is a testament to its popularity and quality.

Who should buy this headset: You should buy this headset if you want wireless convenience, great audio, and have the money to pay for the privilege!

Pros:

• Great sound.
• Solid wireless audio.
• Convenient docking station.

Cons:

• The mic isn't the best.
• Once the battery is flat, the headset needs to be replaced.
• Versatility is a bit limited.

Best Premium

Astro A50

For the rich kids

$300 at Amazon

This is a seriously expensive headset with seriously excellent sound and seriously impressive features. One for the richer among us.

Bottom line

There are dozens of great Xbox One headsets out there for all sorts of users, in all kinds of scenarios, across all sorts of budgets. These headsets represent the best in several major categories. My current personal set up combines the comfort and sound of the Turtle Beach Elite Atlas and the sound mixing features of the Astro A40 TR MixAmp, but it's a complex, cable-heavy set up that is geared towards content creation, alongside great audio.

For average users, the Turtle Beach Elite Atlas plugged into a PC or Xbox One controller via 3.5mm will be more than satisfactory, coupled with Dolby Atmos for that surround sound boost. If you want to save a bit, the HyperX CloudX is also a very similar, very competitive option for a little less. If you want to ditch cables altogether, the LucidSound LS35X is your best choice. Whichever headset you pick from this list, one thing is for sure: you'll have a great experience.

Credits — The team that worked on this guide

Jez Corden is a full-time writer for Windows Central, focusing on Xbox, Surface, and Windows PC. He spends the vast majority of his time gaming, or writing about gaming, with a mission to provide gamers in the Microsoft ecosystem the best and most up-to-date info possible.