Xbox fans should mark September 26 on their calendars, as the Xbox Tokyo Game Show Broadcast has just been confirmed to return on that date. And while the livestream's full lineup won't be announced in advance, Microsoft has already name-dropped some of the Xbox studios that will be participating in the upcoming event.
The Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2024 broadcast will take place at 7pm JST which in each timezone is:
- 3am Pacific
- 6am Eastern
- 11am UK
The entire event will be broadcast live on the official Tokyo Game Show YouTube channel, and the Xbox showcase will also be broadcast from official Xbox social channels, like its own YouTube here. A full list of where you can watch the show in your preferred language will be available on the week of the show.
Xbox Wire has confirmed that content will be shared from Xbox Game Studios, Activision Blizzard, and Bethesda, as well as a line-up of third-party games primarily based in Japan and across Asia. Traditionally, we do see a few new game announcements. At TGS 2022 we got games like the Ni No Kuni Wrath of the White Witch remaster and the Deathloop launch date, and in TGS 2023, we had reveals from Capcom for Ace Attorney Trilogy as well as 7 new Xbox Game Pass games. Traditionally, we get a mix of Asian titles, new trailers, and announcements for Western games. And hey, if Xbox were to get a Final Fantasy 16 port this would be a great place to announce that!
Xbox Game Pass Announcements
In its announcement, Microsoft also emphasized the role of Xbox Game Pass, specifically mentioning that “games coming to Xbox Game Pass” will be a part of the broadcast. This is a significant detail, as Xbox Game Pass has become a major focus for Microsoft's gaming strategy, and the company is constantly adding new titles to its subscription service. It's likely that the September 26 broadcast will feature announcements of new games that will be available to Xbox Game Pass subscribers.
Bethesda and Activision Blizzard Games
It is worth noting that the mention of Activision Blizzard and Bethesda in the Xbox announcement is notable, as these two companies are now owned by Microsoft. This suggests that the broadcast will feature updates on games from these studios. While the full lineup of games is still under wraps, we can speculate on which titles might make an appearance.
One of the most anticipated titles from Activision Blizzard is the upcoming Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, which is slated for release in October 2024. Microsoft's showcase could offer a new look at the game, with a sneak peek at its gameplay or a release date for the game's beta. It is also possible that Activision Blizzard will use the broadcast to show off a new Diablo 4 expansion, or perhaps an update on the Diablo Immortal mobile game.
As for Bethesda, the studio is working on a variety of projects, including the Starfield expansion Shattered Space, which is expected to launch on October 3. The broadcast might offer a deeper dive into this DLC, or perhaps tease the next expansion for Fallout 76, or even reveal new information about the upcoming release of MachineGames' Indiana Jones and the Great Circle in December 2024, and Id Software's Doom: The Dark Ages in 2025.
Third-Party Games and Surprises
In addition to the games from Microsoft's own studios, the broadcast will also include a lineup of titles from third-party partners based in Japan and across Asia. This could offer a chance for fans to see new announcements for games that are coming to Xbox consoles, including some surprises.
The broadcast's inclusion of Asian-based third-party studios could provide a stage for Square Enix to finally announce Final Fantasy 16 for Xbox. It would be a surprising and welcome addition to the Xbox console lineup, and would likely be a major draw for players. The release of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake on Xbox could also be announced at the event. This move would be huge for Microsoft's bid to attract players in the Asian market.
The Future of Xbox in Japan
The Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2024 Broadcast is more than just a chance to see new game announcements. It is also an opportunity for Microsoft to show its commitment to the Japanese gaming market. Microsoft has been trying to gain traction in the Japanese market for years. The Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S have had limited success there, with Playstation still the dominant force. The broadcast is a chance for Microsoft to showcase its gaming lineup and make a stronger push in Japan.
The broadcast will likely feature a blend of new game announcements, updates on existing titles, and a look at the future of Xbox. This event will be a great way for gamers to stay up-to-date on the latest in Xbox gaming.
