Microsoft's latest Xbox Partner Preview has defied expectations with a surprisingly strong showing that included the unexpected reveal of a Vampire Survivors spin-off title. The 30-minute digital showcase, which took place on Thursday evening, focused exclusively on third-party games and notably avoided the corporate presentations that have drawn criticism in previous events.
Streamlined Format Delivers Results
The success of this particular showcase appears to lie in its straightforward approach. No Xbox executives appeared during the presentation, and minimal commentary was provided through a British voiceover. This allowed the event to maintain a brisk pace, though some individual game segments still felt slightly overlong.
Everything began with Armatus, a roguelite game set in Paris that initially appeared to be connected to Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The title features procedurally generated rooms and enemies with what developers describe as Soulslike influences, scheduled for release sometime next year.
Vampire Crawlers Steals the Show
The undeniable highlight emerged as Vampire Crawlers, the first major spin-off from the wildly popular Vampire Survivors. Described as a deck-building role-playing game with dungeon crawling elements, it draws inspiration from classics like Dungeon Keeper and the Wizardry series.
While maintaining the pixel art aesthetic of its predecessor, Vampire Crawlers introduces card customization mechanics that might not appeal to all original fans. However, developer poncle has emphasised that players can adjust the game's speed to their preference, including the option to play "as fast as you humanly can" - maintaining a connection to Vampire Survivors' signature rapid gameplay.
The company has indicated this represents just the first of several planned spin-offs from the Vampire Survivors universe.
Notable Announcements and Game Pass Additions
Though primarily featuring indie titles, the showcase included appearances from major studios. IO Interactive promoted both 007: First Light, featuring a new Aston Martin collaboration, and Hitman: World Of Association, which revealed Eminem/Slim Shady as the next elusive target.
THQ Nordic announced a February 13 release date for Reanimal, developed by the creators of Little Nightmares 1 and 2. Chinese action adventure Tides Of Annihilation and third-person action game Zoopunk received substantial screen time, though their extended segments may have tested viewer patience.
Several brand new games made their debut, including Echo Generation 2 and the ambitious-looking Erosion among several voxel-based titles. The unconventional Alien invasion/petrol station simulator Roadside Research also generated interest with its unique premise.
Multiple titles confirmed they would be available on Game Pass Ultimate from day one, providing immediate access for subscribers. The complete list includes: Crowsworn, Erosion, Roadside Research, Cloverpit, Total Chaos, Vampire Crawlers, Echo Generation 2, Raji: Kaliyuga, and Armatus.
Total Chaos deserves special mention as it began life as a total conversion of Doom 2, created by prominent modder Sam Preeble - something not immediately apparent from its trailer.
The showcase concluded without major fanfare, though the Raji: An Ancient Epic sequel Raji: Kaliyuga appeared promising. Notably absent was any mention of the heavily leaked Silent Hill 2 remake, despite reports of its availability in Australia at the time of the event.
