In a departure from its original formula, Minecraft Legends aims to focus on strategy, as demonstrated at the recent Xbox Developer Direct. The competitive multiplayer mode, developed in partnership with Blackbird Interactive, encourages players to form alliances with familiar and new Minecraft creatures, and to share resources and armies with their teammates. As in the campaign, the maps are procedurally generated, providing a unique experience each time. In addition to fending off attacks from rival players, players must also contend with piglins and other obstacles. Building defenses, such as walls, gates, and towers, is also an important aspect of the game, as well as strategically placing traps and using siege and anti-siege weapons. Minecraft Legends will be available April 18 on various platforms including PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC.

E3, the annual video game trade show, has long been a staple of the industry, with major companies like Microsoft and Nintendo showcasing their upcoming releases on a grand stage. However, in recent years, both companies have decided to take a different approach, opting to stream their announcements directly to audiences rather than have a physical show floor presence.

Microsoft, in particular, has taken a page from Nintendo’s playbook, with its Xbox Series X event being streamed online. This move allows the company to reach a wider audience without the limitations of a physical event, and also saves on costs associated with renting out a convention center and staffing a booth.

This change in strategy is not limited to Microsoft, as other companies have also begun to shift their focus away from physical events. Nintendo, for example, has been streaming its announcements for years, with its Direct streams becoming a staple of the company’s marketing strategy.

There are several reasons for this shift in strategy, the main one being the current global pandemic. With large gatherings still not safe, companies have had to find new ways to reach their audience. Streaming events directly to viewers allows companies to reach a global audience without the limitations of a physical event.

Additionally, streaming events online allows for a more personal and interactive experience. Viewers can interact with the event in real-time, asking questions and providing feedback. This level of engagement is not possible at a physical event.

Another benefit of streaming events directly is the ability to have a more targeted audience. With a physical event, companies are reaching a broad audience, including those who are not interested in their products. However, with a streaming event, companies can target their audience more effectively, reaching only those who are interested in their products.