'Xbox Will Exist for Decades to Come.' Microsoft Discusses Its Future

Source: Xbox.

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Microsoft has published the latest episode of the Official Xbox Podcast, in which we learned about the future of the Xbox brand. Phil Spencer (CEO of Microsoft Gaming), Sarah Bond (head of the Xbox brand), and Matt Booty (Head of Xbox Game Studios) presented their view on the exclusivity of games from developers in the Xbox Game Studios family, the Game Pass subscription, new consoles, and the growing gaming community.

1. In terms of exclusivity -- the company intend to release only 4 games on other platforms, implying PS5 and Switch, (at least for now). In each case, the decision was made separately, based on specific arguments. We haven't learned the specifics, but it's neither Starfield nor Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. This move is intended to introduce Xbox brands to players who may not know them.
2. The head of Microsoft Gaming, Phil Spencer, believes that in 5-10 years, exclusives will only make up a small percentage of all the productions available on the market. Especially since productions like Fortnite or Roblox are becoming bigger than any gaming platform alone.
3. Game Pass will remain available only on those devices where it currently is (PC, XOne, XSX/S, Android, iOS and some Samsung SmartTVs). Xbox Studios games will still be released there at launch. Microsoft also wants to ensure cross-save and cross-play features in as many productions as possible.
4. Activision Blizzard games will soon be available on Game Pass - on March 28, subscribers will get Diablo IV. You will find more information on this in a separate news.
5. By opening up to players from other platforms and new developers, Microsoft wants to expand the audience for its games and consoles, creating a "brand that will last for decades."
6. Microsoft has no intention of stopping the production of Xbox consoles. More information on this is to be announced during the holiday period of 2024. The Redmond giant is also investing in the next generation. There are many suggestions that the corporation's plans include a portable device, which has been talked about for some time, but has not been officially confirmed.
7. They realize that players have been associated with the Xbox brand for many years - with their game collection, achievements, etc. As Phil Spencer stated, respecting this is "fundamental."