Defining Duke, Episode 169 | The "Death Of Xbox" Rumors Are Swirling AGAIN... - What's Going On?

We're at the point in Xbox's lifespan where the sensitivity is at an all time high. By that, we mean that the reaction to certain pieces of news is heightened considerably and is leading to even a singular comment spiraling into chaos. That's just what happened this week when, once again, we hear how Xbox is struggling. This time, it hails from the EU region where Christopher Dring states that a major game publisher questions the support of the platform in general. Naturally, this has been spun and applies to every conceivable developer under the sun. The Dukes approach this from two angles. For starters, how can Xbox escape the rumor mill and begin controlling the narrative? Is there something they can do to wipe away the doubt that gives legs to simple murmurring? Secondly, if true, what does this mean for Xbox? Separately, comments from Phil Spencer have indicated that extra money could be sought out in other areas of the industry. From Windows Central claiming an Xbox handheld prototype is in the works and Phil Spencer's recent interview signaling an infatuation with the Xbox handheld idea, it seems that their hardware push is far from over. Phil also spoke to bringing digital storefront like Epic Games Store and Itch.io to Xbox. Is the long term vision and all encompassing box full of all your games from all platforms? As always, it's never a sure bet with Xbox, but the Dukes do their digging nonetheless.

Timestamps:
0:00:00 - Intro

0:17:43 - Microsoft Rewards shutting down

0:24:55 - Xbox is integrating Battle Net with Game Pass?

0:37:57 - Phil Spencer wants to bring Epic Games Store to Xbox

0:51:58 - Sea Of Thieves is getting a massive update for its PS5 launch

0:54:49 - Marvel 1943 launches in 2025

0:58:07 - Marvel Rivals announced

1:07:09 - Grounded's final update gets detailed

1:16:08 - Xbox reaches an agreement with Toys For Bob

1:17:38 - SMT V new date

1:18:36 - Shinji Mikami's new studio accidentally leaked

1:22:40 - Yoshi-P teases FF16 for Xbox

1:25:58 - Resident Evil 9 may go open world

1:32:13 - Sonic Heroes is getting a remake in 2025?

1:38:06 - Star Wars Outlaws rated in multiple regions

1:41:53 - What We're Playing

2:25:51 - Elder Scrolls VI is playable

2:30:28 - Xbox is prototyping a handheld

2:48:44 - Developers are apparently wondering why they're supporting Xbox

3:07:52 - Game Pass Pick Of The Week

3:14:33 - Ending Questions