As 2021 comes to a close, it’s time to take a look back at Xbox’s year in review. From new game releases to player engagement stats, there’s plenty to unpack when it comes to the gaming giant’s performance this past year.

One of the biggest highlights for Xbox in 2021 was the release of several highly anticipated games. Titles like Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, and Psychonauts 2 were all met with critical acclaim and helped drive sales for the console. These releases not only showcased the power of the Xbox Series X/S hardware but also solidified Xbox’s position as a major player in the gaming industry.

In terms of player engagement, Xbox saw impressive numbers throughout the year. According to Microsoft, Xbox Game Pass subscribers spent over 2.7 billion hours playing games in 2021. This marked a 30% increase from the previous year and highlighted the growing popularity of the subscription service. With a constantly expanding library of games and day-one releases, Xbox Game Pass has become a must-have for gamers looking to get the most bang for their buck.

In addition to game time, Xbox also saw a surge in online multiplayer activity. Microsoft reported that Xbox Live monthly active users reached 100 million in 2021, a significant milestone for the platform. This increase in online engagement can be attributed to the success of games like Call of Duty: Warzone, Fortnite, and Apex Legends, which continue to draw in millions of players each month.

Looking ahead to 2022, Xbox shows no signs of slowing down. With upcoming releases like Starfield, Fable, and Perfect Dark on the horizon, fans have plenty to look forward to in the new year. Additionally, Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda Softworks and other studios continues to pay dividends, with more exclusive titles in development for Xbox players to enjoy.

Overall, Xbox had a strong year in 2021, with impressive game releases, record-breaking engagement stats, and a bright future ahead. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, Xbox remains a driving force in the industry, delivering top-notch gaming experiences to players around the world.