In a surprising turn of events, Xbox titles claimed the top three positions on the digital bestsellers list for PS5 in April 2025. Both the US/Canada and EU markets saw Microsoft’s first-party games dominate downloads on the PlayStation Store, showcasing their wide appeal across multiple consoles. Notably, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered from Bethesda and the PS5 version of Forza Horizon 5 from Playground Games, both of which debuted in April, were among these leading titles.
Xbox Games Shine on PlayStation
Sony revealed the latest digital sales statistics for its store on the PlayStation Blog, indicating that Xbox games were the most popular in April. In the US and Canada, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered topped the digital sales chart for PS5. Meanwhile, Minecraft and Forza Horizon 5 secured the second and third positions, respectively.
Over in the EU, the performance shifted slightly, with Forza Horizon 5 taking the lead on the PS5 sales chart. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered followed closely in second place, while Minecraft rounded out the top three in this region.
Additionally, further down the sales rankings, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle from Bethesda, which was released on the PS5 in April, also found its way onto the bestselling list for the console.
Forza Horizon 5 launched on PS5 on April 29
Photo Credit: Microsoft/ Playground Games
Microsoft’s Multiplatform Approach
In 2025, Microsoft has strengthened its commitment to a multiplatform launch strategy. Phil Spencer, the head of Xbox, has reiterated the company’s plan to release first-party games on competing consoles. Earlier this year, he hinted at an expanded availability of Xbox titles on PlayStation devices.
Since its announcement last year regarding the launch of select Xbox titles for the PS5 and Nintendo Switch, Microsoft has aimed to separate its gaming software from hardware sales. Focusing on broader access, the company has prioritized its Game Pass and Cloud Gaming offerings, allowing players to engage with its games on an array of compatible devices.
In a recent update, Microsoft has unveiled Gears of War: Reloaded, a remaster of the iconic 2006 game, set to launch on August 26, 2025, across PS5, PC, and Xbox Series S/X platforms.
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered made its unexpected debut on April 22, available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series S/X. The remaster has received widespread acclaim for remaining true to the original game’s essence while enhancing its visuals and gameplay. Bethesda reported that in just four days post-launch, the remaster attracted over four million players.
