Gaming enthusiasts with an Xbox console have an exciting opportunity to experience a new game this weekend, thanks to the Xbox Insider program. The game, titled 'Hawked', is an extraction shooter that promises to take players on an adrenaline-pumping treasure hunt, and best of all, it's free to try out for a limited time.
'Hawked' is set to release sometime in early 2024, but Xbox gamers can get an early taste of the action. The game invites players to explore X-Isle, an island paradise filled with contrasting landscapes that include everything from lush plains and dense jungles to pristine beaches and ancient ruins. It combines elements of exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense combat, satisfying a range of play styles and preferences.
In 'Hawked', your objective is simple but challenging. You must solve intricate puzzles to obtain Glyphs, which are keys to unlock the coveted Treasuries scattered across the island. Once inside, you'll find shimmering Artifacts – the ultimate prize. But claiming these treasures won't be a walk in the park; you'll need to be on guard at every turn. The island is crawling with monstrous creatures referred to as Disciples and rival treasure seekers known as Renegades, making for an explosive mix of player-versus-player versus environment (PvPvE) skirmishes. Only the sharpest and toughest will be able to secure their loot and make it off the island.
Players can choose to take on the adventure solo or team up with friends, forming 2-player or 3-player squads. Working together could provide the tactical advantage needed to outfox your opponents and the island's dangers. However, alliances in the game are just as fragile as the ancient ruins you'll be exploring. Trust is a luxury few can afford when high stakes are involved.
The free playtest of 'Hawked' is not only an opportunity for players to get their hands on an early version of the game but also for the developers to gather valuable feedback. This process helps them refine the game and ensure the best possible experience upon its full release.
If you're eager to jump into the fray and see what 'Hawked' is all about, you'll need to act quickly. Here's how you can join the playtest:
1. Make sure you have an Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One console ready to go.
2. On your console, sign in and launch the Xbox Insider Hub app. If you don't have it installed, you can download it from the Store first.
3. Look for the Previews section and find HAWKED – Beta.
4. Opt to Join, and after the registration is complete, you should be directed to the Store page to install the game and start playing.
Remember, available spots for the playtest are limited and are offered on a first come, first serve basis. The playtest will end on the morning of Monday, December 11th at 1AM PT / 4AM ET / 9AM GMT, so there's no time to waste.
For those interested in the look and feel of 'Hawked', the developers have released a trailer that showcases the game’s lush environments and intense action sequences. You can watch the trailer here for a glimpse into what awaits in X-Isle:
