May is Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and Xbox is celebrating the rich cultures and creativity of these communities through gaming. This celebration highlights games inspired by Pacific Islander life and environmental themes, plus an exclusive chat with the creator of Ecco the Dolphin about his upcoming projects.
The Pacific Islands are deeply bonded with the ocean, shaping their culture and identity. Sadly, rising sea levels threaten this connection, putting communities and heritage sites at risk. Xbox is using games to share these stories and raise awareness about ocean conservation.
Games Inspired by Asian and Pacific Islander Cultures
Some standout titles include Tchia, which explores a lively island world inspired by New Caledonia, and Ecco the Dolphin, a classic that teaches players about marine ecosystems. Other games like Windbound, Coral Island, and Summer in Mara also offer distinct island adventures that blend exploration, survival, and farming mechanics.
Game Highlights
- Tchia: A physics-driven sandbox adventure where you can control animals and objects, jam on a ukulele, and face off against fabric soldiers. It’s a poetic coming-of-age story set in a tropical archipelago.
- Windbound: Stranded on an unknown island, you craft tools and weapons to survive and uncover secrets of the past.
- Coral Island: A laid-back farm sim with island living, animal tending, and relationship building.
- Summer in Mara: Mixes farming, crafting, and ocean exploration with a colorful narrative.
Movies Celebrating API Cultures on Xbox
Xbox also recommends films like Moana 2, Raya and the Last Dragon, Lilo & Stitch, and Big Hero 6 that showcase Asian and Pacific Islander stories and characters.
Spotlight on Ecco the Dolphin Creator Ed Annunziata
Ed Annunziata shared how his passion for ocean life and educational games led to Ecco the Dolphin. He wanted players to feel curiosity and respect for the ocean. Ed believes games can connect people to environmental issues and cultures tied to the sea.
He revealed plans to remaster the original Ecco the Dolphin and Tides of Time, plus develop a new third game with current gameplay and graphics. You can follow updates at eccothedolphin.com.
Giving Back Through Xbox Rewards
Xbox Rewards members in the US can donate points to organizations supporting Asian and Pacific Islander communities, including:
Players 18+ can earn points by playing games, completing Game Pass Quests, and shopping at the Microsoft Store. Points can be donated via the Rewards hub or redeem page. Start earning for impact today.
Xbox Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Wallpapers
You can download the special Xbox wallpaper and dynamic background celebrating API Heritage Month. To apply the dynamic background on your console:
- Press the Xbox button to open the guide.
- Go to Profile & system > Settings > General > Personalization > My background > Dynamic backgrounds.
- Choose from Games, Xbox, or Abstract backgrounds and select your favorite with the A button.
Xbox’s celebration is a reminder of how games can share culture, inspire care for the environment, and bring communities together. What games or stories from Asian and Pacific Islander creators have stuck with you? Drop your thoughts below!
