Rumor: Next Xbox to launch with Ryse, new Forza, more

Launch titles for the next Xbox include Crytek‘s Ryse, a new Forza, and new family and zombie games, according to multiple The Verge sources “familiar with Microsoft’s plans.”

Ryse, first announced for Xbox 360 at E3 2011, is said to be have been rewritten to take advantage of Microsoft’s new system and “designed to be Microsoft’s new Gears of War / Halo mega launch title.” Set during the Roman empire period, it will still make use of “deep Kinect integration,” using Kinect 2.0’s new body tracking improvements to let players slash and kick enemies.

The new Forza is said to have “super life-like” graphics.

The new family game is apparently set on an island, features “Pixar movie-style graphics,” and utilizes Kinect to scan players’ bodies to generate a virtual character in the game.

According to The Verge, these are only a “small selection” of the next-generation Xbox’s launch titles.

“Third-party support is said to be strong in the first-person-shooter genre,” said the site. “Microsoft is also working on some improvements to Xbox Live, including a switch to currency over the Microsoft Points system.”

In other next Xbox-related news, the LinkedIn profiles of Ubisoft developers Paolo Maninetti and Phil Brolles list both Watch Dogs and Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag for “Xbox 720,” as well as its already confirmed platforms. This isn’t shocking news, as both games were previously announced for ‘other next-gen platforms’, the name of which cannot be said as it’s not been announced. Thanks to VideoGamer for that find.

Microsoft is expected to reveal the new Xbox on May 21.