Hi, I’m Tatsuo Yamada, a writer on the Windows team, working on the Windows Store. Today I’m posting the first in a new series of blog posts about apps and games available in the Windows Store.
Over the past couple of months I’ve been trying out a variety of games I’ve found in the Windows Store for my new Windows 8 PC, including a bunch of Xbox games.
Like games for the Xbox 360 or Xbox games for the Windows Phone, all Xbox games in the Store include achievements I can unlock. Now I can experience the satisfaction of hearing the “achievement unlocked” sound while I build up my gamerscore on my Windows 8 PC (no console necessary!). Many of them also include features like leaderboards, multiplayer modes, and connecting with Xbox friends, so there’s nothing standing between me and a little friendly competition.
Here are a few of my favorite Xbox games that I’m currently playing.
Angry Birds Star Wars
This smart mashup of two great franchises delivers a healthy dose of nostalgia. Armed with blasters, light sabers, and the Force (of course), it’s up to me to help the feathered rebels take down the evil Imperial Pigs. Combining great gameplay with familiar locations and sound effects, fans of the game and the sci-fi series should be sure to check this one out. And don’t worry, everyone’s favorite droids and Wookiee are in there, too!
Wordament
Got two minutes to spare? By connecting three or more tiles in a row to create as many words as possible, you can see how you stack up against other players from around the world at the end of each two-minute round. Fast-paced and infinitely addicting, I highly recommend this game to word enthusiasts everywhere.
Rocket Riot 3D
I’m a sucker for shooters, and this 8-bit pixilated throwback to old-school gaming definitely delivers. Featuring unique visuals and wacky power ups, I’ve spent hours blasting my way through different levels on a quest to defeat the dreaded pirate Blockbeard.
Fruit Ninja
Patience has never been my strong suit, but this game forces me to stay calm, cool, collected, and at the ready. Slicing the various fruits tossed into the air, I need to balance quick-twitch reflexes with precision to make sure I don’t accidentally hit one of those pesky bombs that pop up. Experience this game for yourself and get ready to bring Zen back to the art of fruit salad prep.
I’ve also been enjoying Jetpack Joyride, Gravity Guy, and everyone’s favorite, Minesweeper. This just scratches the surface of the Xbox games currently in the Windows Store (just look for the games marked with the “Xbox” logo). And with more games becoming available every week, make sure you check back often to see what other gems you can discover.
Note: Some games might not be available in all countries or regions.