This month, Microsoft announced that they're going to be releasing concurrent updates in the form of live-streams not unlike the highly popular Nintendo Directs, which is Nintendo's way of releasing news about upcoming games and announcing new experiences. Today marked the first release of their Inside Xbox series and here are my thoughts.
Where Nintendo has a prerecorded stream of information that's quick-fire rapidly shown to viewers. Microsoft decided to take a different approach and go for the heavily scripted "live" show with hosts, guests and a big screen full of Twitter hashtags aimed at Microsoft games.
Instead of having a naturally flowing stream of information, Microsoft continues to overdo what's necessary and turned what should have been only announcements into a huge advertisement. Between each game announcement, the hosts of the show wastes your time by continually advertising Microsoft's streaming platform Mixer, Smite and other paid promotions.
This feels nauseating when you're used to how quickly and concise the Nintendo Directs are. They aren't made to advertise Nintendo's other ventures or subsidiaries but simply for announcing new games, release dates and downloadable content that's coming out for games already available.
A majority of the show is talking between co-hosts, Major Nelson and other promotional hosts from Microsoft. The show covered Sea of Thieves for over an hour, a game that has been consistently showcased for years and years. And while I am excited for the game, I feel that Microsoft has completely oversaturated the internet with videos of the game.
When I'm watching a Nintendo Direct, I look forward to the brand new announcements because i know Nintendo is consistently supporting their platform with new games or ports. Microsoft definitely needs to start putting their best foot forward if they plan on maintaining an audience with Inside Xbox.