Xbox Game Pass scores biggest outside hit with ‘Palworld’

Palworld marks a success in Microsoft’s strategy of building out a Netflix-like subscription service with games from its own studios and outside creators. — AFP

Microsoft Corp’s Xbox Game Pass has scored its biggest hit from an outside developer with Palworld, the viral sensation that’s earned the colloquial description of “Pokémon with guns”.

The online open-world game, made available while still in development, rocketed past seven million players across Xbox consoles and PC, making it the biggest third-party launch in Game Pass history, Microsoft said on Wednesday. It was also the most-played third-party title on its day of debut, the US company said.