The Xbox Developer Direct event is returning on January 23, 2025, to give fans an in-depth look at some of the most anticipated games of the year. Microsoft has confirmed that this showcase will highlight four major titles, including ‘Doom: The Dark Ages,’ ‘South of Midnight,’ ‘Clair Obscur: Expedition 33,’ and a yet-to-be-revealed mystery game.
The first major game to be highlighted during the event is Doom: The Dark Ages, a bold reimagining of the iconic Doom franchise. Developed by id Software, the game takes players to a medieval-inspired setting, trading the series’ usual futuristic landscapes for dark, gothic environments.
The shift in tone is expected to bring a fresh take to the series, with new weapons, characters, and challenges promised for fans. While specific gameplay details remain under wraps, the title has already generated significant buzz ahead of its release.
Compulsion Games’ South of Midnight will also take center stage. First revealed during a previous Xbox showcase, this Southern Gothic action-adventure game is set in a richly detailed world inspired by American folklore. The event is expected to feature extended gameplay footage, shedding more light on its unique art style and storytelling approach. The game’s mysterious tone and immersive visuals have made it one of the standout titles on Xbox’s slate for 2025.
Clair Obscur and mystery title
Another addition to the Xbox Developer Direct lineup is Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a narrative-driven game that incorporates exploration and puzzle-solving. Details about the game’s story and mechanics are limited, but its focus on storytelling and innovative gameplay has drawn interest. Its appearance at the Developer Direct will provide the first detailed look at what the game offers, making it a title of interest for those looking for something different in the 2025 release calendar.
Microsoft has also confirmed that the event will feature a fourth, yet-to-be-revealed game. While there is no official information about this title, speculation suggests it could belong to an established Xbox-exclusive franchise or be something entirely new. The lack of details has generated curiosity among fans, particularly given Xbox’s history of major announcements during similar events.
There is also speculation that Microsoft may use the event to shadow drop this mystery game, similar to the unexpected release of Hi-Fi Rush in 2023. This approach has previously been used to surprise players and add excitement to showcases. Whether Microsoft will follow the same strategy or reveal the title in a more conventional manner remains unknown, but the mystery surrounding the announcement has contributed to heightened interest in the event.
When and where to watch
The Developer Direct is scheduled to stream live on January 23, 2025. Viewers can tune in at 10:00 AM PT, 1:00 PM ET, or 6:00 PM UK time on YouTube and Twitch. Fans can watch the event on platforms including YouTube and Twitch. The showcase is expected to run approximately 90 minutes, providing ample time to dive into the details of each game.
About time for another Developer_Direct
Join us on January 23 for an exclusive deep dive into some of the exciting games coming to Xbox in 2025: https://t.co/ld9bgRvmfy | #DeveloperDirect pic.twitter.com/AG2dt9i0KB
— Xbox (@Xbox) January 9, 2025
Microsoft has emphasized that all four games will be available on Xbox Game Pass on their respective launch dates. This move continues the company’s strategy of making high-profile releases accessible to a broad audience through its subscription service.
With the 3 games and a mystery title on the agenda, this Xbox event promises to offer a comprehensive look at the future of gaming on the Xbox platform. The event will not only showcase gameplay and visuals but may also include insights from developers about the creative processes behind these projects.
