Microsoft has announced it will provide a significant update on its Xbox division later this week, following speculation regarding the potential release of its first-party games on competing consoles. The update is set for February 15 at 12pm PT (which translates to February 16, 1:30am IST in India) during a special edition of the Official Xbox Podcast. Leaders of the gaming segment, including Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, Xbox president Sarah Bond, and head of Xbox Game Studios Matt Booty, are expected to discuss the platform’s future roadmap.
This announcement follows various reports suggesting that titles traditionally exclusive to Xbox, such as Hi-Fi Rush and Sea of Thieves, may soon be available on rival platforms, specifically Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. Included in the conversations are Bethesda’s RPG Starfield and the recently revealed Indiana Jones game, both of which are rumored to make their way to the PS5. A report from Technology News has indicated that several Xbox exclusives could be expanding to these platforms.
Please join us for a special edition of the Official Xbox Podcast.
Hear from Phil Spencer, Sarah Bond and Matt Booty as they share updates on the Xbox business. pic.twitter.com/TxwWJVUbgx
— Xbox (@Xbox) February 12, 2024
While Microsoft has not officially confirmed any strategy changes, the forthcoming business update is anticipated to clarify its intentions regarding the release of first-party titles outside the Xbox ecosystem. Reports suggest that Hi-Fi Rush and Pentiment may be among the initial titles slated for launch on PS5 and Nintendo Switch, with Sea of Thieves also reportedly scheduled to release later this year. Additional Xbox and PC titles are under consideration for similar cross-platform releases.
Last week, Spencer attempted to address concerns from the Xbox community about the rumors of games transitioning to other consoles. He emphasized the importance of community input, stating, “We’re listening and we hear you.” He confirmed that an event to discuss future plans was on the agenda for the following week.
The podcast scheduled for Thursday is expected to detail the company’s evolving business strategy. If it aligns with recent reports, this move could signify a transformative approach for Microsoft in the gaming industry. Historically, the company has maintained its commitment to exclusive Xbox titles while also focusing on the expansion of Xbox Game Pass.
However, this prospective shift in focus on first-party titles has not been without internal debate. An earlier report by XboxEra mentioned heated discussions within the company regarding the potential crossover of titles like Starfield to PlayStation, indicating varied opinions among senior leadership on the implications of this strategy.
