Honoring Black History: A Global Celebration of Culture and Creativity in Gaming Post a Comment Category: Announcements February 3, 2025 Honoring Black History: A Global Celebration of Culture and Creativity in Gaming Team Xbox Summary Celebrating Global Black Culture: Xbox honors the diverse and rich expressions of Black culture from around the world, highlighting the influence of Afro-Caribbean, Afro-Latino, African, and African American traditions in gaming. Discover Games Shaped by Black Creators and Stories staring Black protagonists: Xbox is spotlighting a robust list of games that reflects the rich diversity of black creators as well as games that feature black protagonists. Spotlighting Emerging Black Creators: Xbox is proud to continue to amplify the voices of new and upcoming Black creators, showcasing their unique perspectives and innovative contributions to the gaming industry. As we celebrate Black History Month, it’s important to recognize that Black culture is vast, diverse, and rich in its many expressions. From the rhythms of Afro-Caribbean music to the artistry of African American traditions, Black culture stretches across the globe, with each region contributing its own unique narratives, creativity, and spirit. This February, Xbox is proud to spotlight the varied voices of Black creators from all corners of the world, showcasing the powerful stories and games that reflect the breadth of the Black experience. Black culture is not a single story – it is shaped by generations of resilience, joy, innovation, and communal spirit shared across different countries, continents, and languages. Through the games we support, we aim to highlight these diverse perspectives and celebrate the beauty and complexity of Black culture in all its forms. Xbox is proud to support the next generation of Black creators who are shaping the future of gaming, via the games we create and programs we offer. These emerging voices are bringing fresh, dynamic perspectives to the industry, crafting innovative and culturally rich experiences that will resonate with players for years to come. By supporting and amplifying these creators, we aim to provide a platform where their unique stories can thrive, inspiring a new wave of talent and players alike. Xbox remains committed to supporting the creators who inspire, challenge, and entertain, helping to ensure their stories are shared and celebrated globally. PLAY Minecraft Celebrates Black History Month with Education and Community Impact As part of its celebration of Black History Month, Minecraft is continuing its mission to amplify the voices of Black individuals, foster education around Black history, and highlight the power of community. Through the Minecraft and Microsoft platforms, Minecraft is showcasing Black creators in its marketplace, partnering with educators to teach civil rights history, and supporting non-profits that work within Black communities. Lessons in Good Trouble is an immersive Minecraft experience aimed at teaching players about the importance of standing up for what’s right. Developed by Minecraft Education in collaboration with educators Natasha Rachell and Felisa Ford, Lessons in Good Trouble has reached more than 6 million downloads since its first release in 2020. This updated DLC introduces students to John Lewis, exploring his pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement and the origins and influence of his nonviolent philosophy. From colonial India to Selma, Alabama to apartheid South Africa and beyond, Lessons in Good Trouble shows players that they have the power to create change in their own communities. It is available for free in the Minecraft Marketplace and for Minecraft Education as a free demo. In addition to the educational content, Minecraft Marketplace is highlighting the work of Black creators, ensuring their contributions are celebrated and showcased to a global audience. In addition to the educational content, Minecraft is partnering with The Cxmmunity Foundation to help increase the representation of underrepresented communities in esports and gaming through STEAM development. Be on the lookout throughout the month of February as The Cxmmunity Foundation is highlighted on Minecraft’s socials to learn more about this organization and check out their programs here. By fostering a space for diverse voices and histories, Minecraft is building a more inclusive community where education, creativity, and social change intersect. South of Midnight: A Journey into Southern Folklore We’re excited to spotlight South of Midnight, an innovative third-person action-adventure game that explores the rich cultural landscape of the American Deep South. In this haunting Southern Gothic tale, players step into the shoes of Hazel, a young woman with a powerful ancient weaving ability. Set in a world steeped in myth and folklore, South of Midnight invites players to navigate a world shaped by the region’s history, culture, and traditions, with a focus on the often-overlooked Black stories embedded in Southern heritage. As Xbox celebrates Black History Month, we are proud to highlight South of Midnight as an example of how games can preserve and amplify Black culture, folklore, and resilience, all while weaving together a narrative that’s as rich and complex as the region it represents. South of Midnight will be available on April 8, 2025, on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox App for Windows PC, Steam and cloud, and you can play it day one with Game Pass. Discover Games Shaped by Black Creators and Featuring Black Protagonists Celebrate Black history through the power of play. During February and beyond, you can play a variety of game collections highlighting Black creators, lead characters, and character creation options that include a variety of skin tones and inclusive hairstyles. Check out a few highlights from our full Xbox Game Collection celebrating Black History Month. Games Featuring Black Protagonists & Stories: Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition – The African Royals – The definitive RTS game returns! Dive into the heart of Africa as you explore a new continent for Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition with two brand new civilizations and their kingdoms, the Ethiopians and the Hausa! Using an Age up mechanic unique to the African civilizations, gain new Alliances with every age and use your Influence to hire your allies’ units or research their technologies. Play AoE III: DE – The African Royals today (Requires Age of Empires III Base Game, sold separately) Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn – From studio A44, makers of Ashen, comes an explosive Souls-lite, where Gods and guns collide in a battle for the future of humanity. The Door to the Great Below has been opened unleashing the Gods and their armies of the Dead. The lands of Kian are besieged, the city of Dawn is on the brink of destruction. It’s time for the Coalition army to fight back. Embrace vengeance, gunpowder and magic as you embark on an epic journey to defeat the Gods, close the door and retake the world. Play Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn today Baldur’s Gate 3 – Abducted, infected, lost. You are turning into a monster, but as the corruption inside you grows, so does your power. Forge a tale of fellowship and betrayal, sacrifice and survival, and the lure of absolute power. Caught in a conflict between devils, deities, and sinister otherworldly forces, you and your party will determine the fate of the Forgotten Realms. Play Baldur’s Gate III today Mortal Kombat 1 – It’s In Our Blood! Discover a reborn Mortal Kombat Universe created by the Fire God Liu Kang. Mortal Kombat 1 ushers in a new era of the iconic franchise with a new fighting system, game modes, and fatalities! Play Mortal Kombat 1 today Streets of Rage 4 – Among the best beat ’em up series ever created, with jammin’ ‘90s beats and over-the-top street beating, the iconic series Streets of Rage returns with a masterful tribute to, and revitalization of, the classic action fans adore. Streets of Rage 4 is a beat ‘em up series known for this timeless gameplay and electronic dance influenced music, and builds upon the classic trilogy’s gameplay with new mechanics, beautiful hand-drawn visuals and a God-tier soundtrack. Play Streets of Rage 4 today Games from Black Creators: Aerial_Knight’s We Never Yield – A stylized, action-packed, and aurally captivating experience that pushes players to navigate obstacles and enemies in both intense single-player and two-player cooperative modes. Players can control both characters simultaneously in single-player mode for an extra challenge! Heart-racing beats guide the heroic brothers through the game’s deadly and daunting environments as they race through a fallen kingdom featuring a variety of challenges throughout. Play Aerial_Knight’s We Never Yield today Tell Me Why – Don’t Nod, the studio behind the beloved franchise, Life is Strange, present a fresh narrative adventure. In this intimate mystery, reunited twins Tyler and Alyson Ronan use their supernatural bond to unravel the memories of their loving but troubled childhood. Set in beautiful small-town Alaska, Tell Me Why features true-to-life characters, mature themes and gripping choices. As you conjure up memories of the past, your choices will affect the twins’ relationship, determine the strength of their bond, and shape the course of their lives. Play Tell Me Why today Forza Horizon 5 – Your Ultimate Horizon Adventure awaits! Explore the vibrant and ever-evolving open world landscapes of Mexico with limitless, fun driving action in hundreds of the world’s greatest cars. Join a thrilling game of chase with our new 5v1 Multiplayer Experience: Hide & Seek. Play Forza Horizon 5 today El Paso, Elsewhere – El Paso, Elsewhere is a supernatural, neo-noir, third-person shooter. Hunt werewolves, fallen angels, and other damned creatures in a vivid slow-motion love letter to action classics. Fight your way through a reality-shifting motel, floor by bloody floor. Save the victims of Draculae, lord of the vampires. Destroy the villain you loved – even if it means dying yourself. Play El Paso, Elsewhere today Jay & Silent Bob: Mall Brawl – Jay and Silent Bob: Mall Brawl is a full 8-bit retro beat ’em up experience with big levels, big bosses, dope combos, and irreverent references to the View Askewniverse. Mall Brawl can be played solo in a single player experience where you swap between both Jay and Silent Bob strategically, or played with a buddy in a 2-player co-operative experience. Fight your way through mallrats, delinquents and security guards to find your way out of the mall and back to the Quickstop. Play Jay & Silent Bob: Mall Brawl today DISCOVER Rising Voices: Emerging Black Creators Shaping the Future of Gaming Xbox is excited to spotlight Nicodemus Madehdou, the visionary CEO and founder of JumpButton Studio, whose journey into the gaming industry is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of community. After relocating to the U.S. from Liberia in 2004, Nicodemus faced the challenges of adjusting to a new environment but found solace and connection through online games like RuneScape. This pivotal experience ignited his desire to create games that could bring people together and break down social barriers. Along with his co-founders, Daniel Ostermiller and Calbert Warner, Nicodemus founded JumpButton Studio with the mission of creating inclusive and culturally rich gaming experiences. Based in Philadelphia, JumpButton Studio draws on the city’s vibrant cultural and historical background, alongside its strong educational institutions like Drexel University, to foster a thriving local gaming community. Nicodemus is committed to making Philadelphia a hub for game development, ensuring that talented local students have the opportunity to build their careers without needing to leave the city. To aspiring developers, Nicodemus offers valuable advice from his own experiences navigating the highs and lows of the industry. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, learning from failure, and being transparent with team members and investors. Drawing strength from mentors, peers, and his community, Nicodemus believes that building strong relationships is essential to long-term success in the gaming world. His team at JumpButton is working on an two exciting new games. The first game is titled The Piece, an original game where graffiti art comes to life. The team is excited to reveal the game to our readers first and are excited to see peoples reactions and thoughts. Their second game is Our Passing Thoughts, a co-op adventure born out of the challenges of isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. The game explores the power of communication, vulnerability, and connection through its unique mechanics. In Our Passing Thoughts, players share abilities like jumping or attacking, forcing them to work together in ways that reveal the true value of trust and sacrifice in relationships. It’s a game designed to evolve with its players, challenging them to navigate the push and pull of each other’s needs and grow stronger together. With a release planned for later this year, Our Passing Thoughts aims to provide an experience that’s as much about the players’ connection as it is about the gameplay. Be sure to follow them on @opt_thegame on social platforms. Xbox is proud to highlight Nicodemus and JumpButton Studio as part of our ongoing commitment to celebrate and amplify the voices of emerging Black creators who are shaping the future of gaming. GIVE Gaming with Impact Rewards members in the United States can earn and donate points to organizations supporting mental wellness with Xbox. The organizations below will be available on the Rewards hub: Gameheads – A tech training program that uses video game design, development and DevOps to create diverse talent and bold new voices, train youth of color for tech eco-steam and prepare them for college, career and civic life. (US) Cxmmunity – (US) A nonprofit organization committed to increasing BIPOC representation within the gaming and esports industry through STEAM education and career development. (US) Xbox players 18 and older can earn Rewards points in various ways, such as playing games, completing Game Pass Quests (terms apply), and purchasing games and other eligible items at the Microsoft Store (exclusions apply). Start earning for impact today and redeem your points for great rewards. Donate your points on the Rewards hub or on the Rewards redeem page. Wallpapers and Dynamic Backgrounds The Black History Month Xbox design is available today as an Xbox wallpaper and dynamic background on console – follow these steps to apply the dynamic background: Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide. Select Profile & system > Settings > General > Personalization > My background > Dynamic backgrounds. You can choose between Games, Xbox, or Abstract dynamic backgrounds. Choose the background art that you want with the A button. 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Category: Announcements February 3, 2025 Honoring Black History: A Global Celebration of Culture and Creativity in Gaming Team Xbox Summary Celebrating Global Black Culture: Xbox honors the diverse and rich expressions of Black culture from around the world, highlighting the influence of Afro-Caribbean, Afro-Latino, African, and African American traditions in gaming. Discover Games Shaped by Black Creators and Stories staring Black protagonists: Xbox is spotlighting a robust list of games that reflects the rich diversity of black creators as well as games that feature black protagonists. Spotlighting Emerging Black Creators: Xbox is proud to continue to amplify the voices of new and upcoming Black creators, showcasing their unique perspectives and innovative contributions to the gaming industry. As we celebrate Black History Month, it’s important to recognize that Black culture is vast, diverse, and rich in its many expressions. From the rhythms of Afro-Caribbean music to the artistry of African American traditions, Black culture stretches across the globe, with each region contributing its own unique narratives, creativity, and spirit. This February, Xbox is proud to spotlight the varied voices of Black creators from all corners of the world, showcasing the powerful stories and games that reflect the breadth of the Black experience. Black culture is not a single story – it is shaped by generations of resilience, joy, innovation, and communal spirit shared across different countries, continents, and languages. Through the games we support, we aim to highlight these diverse perspectives and celebrate the beauty and complexity of Black culture in all its forms. Xbox is proud to support the next generation of Black creators who are shaping the future of gaming, via the games we create and programs we offer. These emerging voices are bringing fresh, dynamic perspectives to the industry, crafting innovative and culturally rich experiences that will resonate with players for years to come. By supporting and amplifying these creators, we aim to provide a platform where their unique stories can thrive, inspiring a new wave of talent and players alike. Xbox remains committed to supporting the creators who inspire, challenge, and entertain, helping to ensure their stories are shared and celebrated globally. PLAY Minecraft Celebrates Black History Month with Education and Community Impact As part of its celebration of Black History Month, Minecraft is continuing its mission to amplify the voices of Black individuals, foster education around Black history, and highlight the power of community. Through the Minecraft and Microsoft platforms, Minecraft is showcasing Black creators in its marketplace, partnering with educators to teach civil rights history, and supporting non-profits that work within Black communities. Lessons in Good Trouble is an immersive Minecraft experience aimed at teaching players about the importance of standing up for what’s right. Developed by Minecraft Education in collaboration with educators Natasha Rachell and Felisa Ford, Lessons in Good Trouble has reached more than 6 million downloads since its first release in 2020. This updated DLC introduces students to John Lewis, exploring his pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement and the origins and influence of his nonviolent philosophy. From colonial India to Selma, Alabama to apartheid South Africa and beyond, Lessons in Good Trouble shows players that they have the power to create change in their own communities. It is available for free in the Minecraft Marketplace and for Minecraft Education as a free demo. In addition to the educational content, Minecraft Marketplace is highlighting the work of Black creators, ensuring their contributions are celebrated and showcased to a global audience. In addition to the educational content, Minecraft is partnering with The Cxmmunity Foundation to help increase the representation of underrepresented communities in esports and gaming through STEAM development. Be on the lookout throughout the month of February as The Cxmmunity Foundation is highlighted on Minecraft’s socials to learn more about this organization and check out their programs here. By fostering a space for diverse voices and histories, Minecraft is building a more inclusive community where education, creativity, and social change intersect. South of Midnight: A Journey into Southern Folklore We’re excited to spotlight South of Midnight, an innovative third-person action-adventure game that explores the rich cultural landscape of the American Deep South. In this haunting Southern Gothic tale, players step into the shoes of Hazel, a young woman with a powerful ancient weaving ability. Set in a world steeped in myth and folklore, South of Midnight invites players to navigate a world shaped by the region’s history, culture, and traditions, with a focus on the often-overlooked Black stories embedded in Southern heritage. As Xbox celebrates Black History Month, we are proud to highlight South of Midnight as an example of how games can preserve and amplify Black culture, folklore, and resilience, all while weaving together a narrative that’s as rich and complex as the region it represents. South of Midnight will be available on April 8, 2025, on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox App for Windows PC, Steam and cloud, and you can play it day one with Game Pass. Discover Games Shaped by Black Creators and Featuring Black Protagonists Celebrate Black history through the power of play. During February and beyond, you can play a variety of game collections highlighting Black creators, lead characters, and character creation options that include a variety of skin tones and inclusive hairstyles. Check out a few highlights from our full Xbox Game Collection celebrating Black History Month. Games Featuring Black Protagonists & Stories: Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition – The African Royals – The definitive RTS game returns! Dive into the heart of Africa as you explore a new continent for Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition with two brand new civilizations and their kingdoms, the Ethiopians and the Hausa! Using an Age up mechanic unique to the African civilizations, gain new Alliances with every age and use your Influence to hire your allies’ units or research their technologies. Play AoE III: DE – The African Royals today (Requires Age of Empires III Base Game, sold separately) Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn – From studio A44, makers of Ashen, comes an explosive Souls-lite, where Gods and guns collide in a battle for the future of humanity. The Door to the Great Below has been opened unleashing the Gods and their armies of the Dead. The lands of Kian are besieged, the city of Dawn is on the brink of destruction. It’s time for the Coalition army to fight back. Embrace vengeance, gunpowder and magic as you embark on an epic journey to defeat the Gods, close the door and retake the world. Play Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn today Baldur’s Gate 3 – Abducted, infected, lost. You are turning into a monster, but as the corruption inside you grows, so does your power. Forge a tale of fellowship and betrayal, sacrifice and survival, and the lure of absolute power. Caught in a conflict between devils, deities, and sinister otherworldly forces, you and your party will determine the fate of the Forgotten Realms. Play Baldur’s Gate III today Mortal Kombat 1 – It’s In Our Blood! Discover a reborn Mortal Kombat Universe created by the Fire God Liu Kang. Mortal Kombat 1 ushers in a new era of the iconic franchise with a new fighting system, game modes, and fatalities! Play Mortal Kombat 1 today Streets of Rage 4 – Among the best beat ’em up series ever created, with jammin’ ‘90s beats and over-the-top street beating, the iconic series Streets of Rage returns with a masterful tribute to, and revitalization of, the classic action fans adore. Streets of Rage 4 is a beat ‘em up series known for this timeless gameplay and electronic dance influenced music, and builds upon the classic trilogy’s gameplay with new mechanics, beautiful hand-drawn visuals and a God-tier soundtrack. Play Streets of Rage 4 today Games from Black Creators: Aerial_Knight’s We Never Yield – A stylized, action-packed, and aurally captivating experience that pushes players to navigate obstacles and enemies in both intense single-player and two-player cooperative modes. Players can control both characters simultaneously in single-player mode for an extra challenge! Heart-racing beats guide the heroic brothers through the game’s deadly and daunting environments as they race through a fallen kingdom featuring a variety of challenges throughout. Play Aerial_Knight’s We Never Yield today Tell Me Why – Don’t Nod, the studio behind the beloved franchise, Life is Strange, present a fresh narrative adventure. In this intimate mystery, reunited twins Tyler and Alyson Ronan use their supernatural bond to unravel the memories of their loving but troubled childhood. Set in beautiful small-town Alaska, Tell Me Why features true-to-life characters, mature themes and gripping choices. As you conjure up memories of the past, your choices will affect the twins’ relationship, determine the strength of their bond, and shape the course of their lives. Play Tell Me Why today Forza Horizon 5 – Your Ultimate Horizon Adventure awaits! Explore the vibrant and ever-evolving open world landscapes of Mexico with limitless, fun driving action in hundreds of the world’s greatest cars. Join a thrilling game of chase with our new 5v1 Multiplayer Experience: Hide & Seek. Play Forza Horizon 5 today El Paso, Elsewhere – El Paso, Elsewhere is a supernatural, neo-noir, third-person shooter. Hunt werewolves, fallen angels, and other damned creatures in a vivid slow-motion love letter to action classics. Fight your way through a reality-shifting motel, floor by bloody floor. Save the victims of Draculae, lord of the vampires. Destroy the villain you loved – even if it means dying yourself. Play El Paso, Elsewhere today Jay & Silent Bob: Mall Brawl – Jay and Silent Bob: Mall Brawl is a full 8-bit retro beat ’em up experience with big levels, big bosses, dope combos, and irreverent references to the View Askewniverse. Mall Brawl can be played solo in a single player experience where you swap between both Jay and Silent Bob strategically, or played with a buddy in a 2-player co-operative experience. Fight your way through mallrats, delinquents and security guards to find your way out of the mall and back to the Quickstop. Play Jay & Silent Bob: Mall Brawl today DISCOVER Rising Voices: Emerging Black Creators Shaping the Future of Gaming Xbox is excited to spotlight Nicodemus Madehdou, the visionary CEO and founder of JumpButton Studio, whose journey into the gaming industry is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of community. After relocating to the U.S. from Liberia in 2004, Nicodemus faced the challenges of adjusting to a new environment but found solace and connection through online games like RuneScape. This pivotal experience ignited his desire to create games that could bring people together and break down social barriers. Along with his co-founders, Daniel Ostermiller and Calbert Warner, Nicodemus founded JumpButton Studio with the mission of creating inclusive and culturally rich gaming experiences. Based in Philadelphia, JumpButton Studio draws on the city’s vibrant cultural and historical background, alongside its strong educational institutions like Drexel University, to foster a thriving local gaming community. Nicodemus is committed to making Philadelphia a hub for game development, ensuring that talented local students have the opportunity to build their careers without needing to leave the city. To aspiring developers, Nicodemus offers valuable advice from his own experiences navigating the highs and lows of the industry. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, learning from failure, and being transparent with team members and investors. Drawing strength from mentors, peers, and his community, Nicodemus believes that building strong relationships is essential to long-term success in the gaming world. His team at JumpButton is working on an two exciting new games. The first game is titled The Piece, an original game where graffiti art comes to life. The team is excited to reveal the game to our readers first and are excited to see peoples reactions and thoughts. Their second game is Our Passing Thoughts, a co-op adventure born out of the challenges of isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. The game explores the power of communication, vulnerability, and connection through its unique mechanics. In Our Passing Thoughts, players share abilities like jumping or attacking, forcing them to work together in ways that reveal the true value of trust and sacrifice in relationships. It’s a game designed to evolve with its players, challenging them to navigate the push and pull of each other’s needs and grow stronger together. With a release planned for later this year, Our Passing Thoughts aims to provide an experience that’s as much about the players’ connection as it is about the gameplay. Be sure to follow them on @opt_thegame on social platforms. Xbox is proud to highlight Nicodemus and JumpButton Studio as part of our ongoing commitment to celebrate and amplify the voices of emerging Black creators who are shaping the future of gaming. GIVE Gaming with Impact Rewards members in the United States can earn and donate points to organizations supporting mental wellness with Xbox. The organizations below will be available on the Rewards hub: Gameheads – A tech training program that uses video game design, development and DevOps to create diverse talent and bold new voices, train youth of color for tech eco-steam and prepare them for college, career and civic life. (US) Cxmmunity – (US) A nonprofit organization committed to increasing BIPOC representation within the gaming and esports industry through STEAM education and career development. (US) Xbox players 18 and older can earn Rewards points in various ways, such as playing games, completing Game Pass Quests (terms apply), and purchasing games and other eligible items at the Microsoft Store (exclusions apply). Start earning for impact today and redeem your points for great rewards. Donate your points on the Rewards hub or on the Rewards redeem page. Wallpapers and Dynamic Backgrounds The Black History Month Xbox design is available today as an Xbox wallpaper and dynamic background on console – follow these steps to apply the dynamic background: Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide. Select Profile & system > Settings > General > Personalization > My background > Dynamic backgrounds. You can choose between Games, Xbox, or Abstract dynamic backgrounds. Choose the background art that you want with the A button.
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