As we dive into Black History Month, we recognize that Black culture is not a monolith but a rich, diverse spectrum of stories and innovations. Whether it’s the pulsating beats of Afro-Caribbean music or the artistic flair of African American traditions, Black culture’s reach spans the globe, stitching together unique narratives from every corner. In this spirit, Xbox is putting the spotlight on these myriad creators and their creations, giving gamers a taste of the rich diversity they bring to the table.
The story of Black culture is one of resilience, joy, and innovation shared across languages, borders, and generations. Xbox aims to amplify these perspectives with the games it supports, celebrating the beauty and complexity of Black culture in its many forms. They’re actively bolstering the next generation of Black creatives, helping them craft narratives that resonate with players worldwide through the games and programs they champion. By placing these vibrant voices under the spotlight, Xbox offers a platform for their stories to flourish, kindling a new wave of talent and inspiration among players.
With an unwavering commitment, Xbox continues to support and promote creators who challenge, entertain, and inspire us, ensuring their voices echo across the globe.
Minecraft’s Tribute to Black History Month
Minecraft is marking Black History Month with initiatives designed to elevate Black voices, advance educational programs about Black history, and underline the importance of community empowerment. Through platforms like Minecraft and Microsoft, they’re not only showcasing Black creators in their marketplaces but also collaborating with educators to impart civil rights history, and supporting nonprofits ingrained within Black communities.
The educational offering, “Lessons in Good Trouble,” is an immersive Minecraft experience that fosters learning about standing up for justice. Created with input from educators Natasha Rachell and Felisa Ford, this module, having amassed over 6 million downloads since its 2020 debut, is now revamped. It guides students through the inspiring journey of John Lewis during the Civil Rights Movement, including his nonviolent resistance philosophy. Spanning from colonial India to Selma, Alabama, and beyond, students learn they hold the power to spark change in their communities. This educational gem is free in the Minecraft Marketplace and available as a demo in Minecraft Education.
Beyond education, the Minecraft Marketplace is a showcase for Black creators’ works, letting a global audience appreciate and celebrate their contributions. Additionally, they’ve teamed up with The Cxmmunity Foundation to amplify underrepresented voices in esports and gaming through STEAM development, fostering greater inclusion within these spheres.
By creating a welcoming space that values diverse voices and histories, Minecraft is constructing a community where education, creativity, and social change harmoniously intersect.
Exploring Southern Folklore in South of Midnight
Enter the mesmerizing world of “South of Midnight,” an imaginative third-person action-adventure game set in the mysterious cultural milieu of the American Deep South. Players will step into the shoes of Hazel, a young woman wielding ancient weaving abilities, as she navigates a world rich in myth and folklore. “South of Midnight” is a tapestry of stories often overlooked, bringing Black Southern heritage to the forefront.
As Xbox pays tribute to Black History Month, they proudly present “South of Midnight” as a prime example of how video games can celebrate and preserve Black culture, folklore, and resilience—all interwoven into a compelling narrative.
Look forward to playing “South of Midnight” come April 8, 2025, across Xbox Series X|S, the Xbox App for Windows PC, Steam, and cloud, right from day one with Game Pass.
Dive into Games by Black Creators and Protagonists
Dive into a vibrant gaming landscape that heralds Black creators and protagonists. Xbox has curated an impressive collection that not only reflects diversity in creators but also offers inclusive skin tones and hairstyles within its character creation suites.
Here are just a few of our recommended titles to explore during Black History Month:
Games with Black Leading Characters and Narratives:
“Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition – The African Royals” takes players on an RTS adventure across Africa. Experience the Ethiopians and the Hausa civilizations with unique age-up mechanics and alliances to explore in this definitive edition. Available to play now (requires base game).
“Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn” presents an explosive blend of God-lore and firepower. With the Great Below’s gates open, players must wield gunpowder and magic to fend off the divine armies of the dead in this Souls-lite adventure. Available to play now.
“Baldur’s Gate 3” immerses you in a tale of struggle against otherworldly corruption. As you and your party maneuver through this conflict-filled realm, your choices dictate the fate of the Forgotten Realms. Available to play now.
“Mortal Kombat 1” invites you into a newly reborn universe where the stakes are higher than ever with entirely new gameplay systems and modes. Play this iconic fighter today.
“Streets of Rage 4” marks the return of the adored beat ’em up series, now with refreshed graphics, new gameplay mechanics, and a legendary soundtrack. Step back into the streets today.
Games Created by Black Developers:
“Aerial_Knight’s We Never Yield” offers a rush of adrenaline, pushing players through intense environments driven by heart-pounding beats. Available in single and cooperative modes, play today.
“Tell Me Why” allows you to piece together the memory of twins Tyler and Alyson Ronan as they navigate their past through unique supernatural bonds. Available to play now.
“Forza Horizon 5” takes you on a stunning adventure through Mexico’s magnificent landscapes in one of the most exhilarating car collections. Begin your engines today.
“El Paso, Elsewhere” serves up a vivid, neo-noir shooting spree against the supernatural, blending classic action and a gripping storyline. Seeking justice, jump in today.
“Jay & Silent Bob: Mall Brawl” channels the classic retro beat ‘em up feel in a co-op, full of mischievous humor and nostalgic charm. Rumble through the malls today.
Spotlight on Future Voices in Gaming
Highlighting stories of Black creators, Xbox features Nicodemus Madehdou, the inspiring CEO of JumpButton Studio. His journey from Liberia to the US in 2004, coupled with his love for online games like RuneScape, ignited his drive to unite people through gaming. Teaming up with co-founders Daniel Ostermiller and Calbert Warner, JumpButton Studio stands on the foundation of creating inclusive and culturally inspired games.
Based in Philadelphia, Nicodemus is turning his hometown into a thriving hub for game development, providing local talents opportunities to build careers without leaving the city. Sharing advice drawn from his experiences, he encourages developers to remain resilient, learn from failures, and foster transparent relationships within the community.
JumpButton Studio’s exciting projects include “The Piece,” a game that brings graffiti art to life, and “Our Passing Thoughts,” inspired by isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. This co-op adventure explores themes like connection and vulnerability, offering gameplay that evolves alongside players’ dynamics. Scheduled to release later this year, “Our Passing Thoughts” promises a unique experience focused on player relationships. Stay tuned with @opt_thegame for updates.
By shining a light on creators like Nicodemus, Xbox reinforces its dedication to celebrating and promoting the voices of emerging Black creators shaping the future of the gaming world.
Games with Impact
For Rewards members in the US, Xbox offers an opportunity to earn and donate points to organizations focused on mental wellness, such as:
Gameheads: A tech training program utilizing game design and DevOps to foster talent among youth of color.
Cxmmunity: A nonprofit organization increasing BIPOC representation in the gaming and esports industries through STEAM education.
Members can collect points by playing games, completing Game Pass Quests, and purchasing eligible items—then redeem these points for various rewards or donate them via the Rewards hub.
Wallpapers and Dynamic Backgrounds
Celebrate Black History Month with the newly designed Xbox wallpaper and dynamic background featuring Ethiopian and Nigerian artistic influences. To apply the dynamic background:
- Press the Xbox button on your controller.
- Select Profile & system > Settings > General > Personalization > My background > Dynamic backgrounds.
- Choose your preferred background with the A button.
