In a surprising turn of events, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer confirmed today that four previously Xbox-exclusive titles will be making their way to other platforms. While he remained tight-lipped about the specific games involved, he clarified in an interview with The Verge that major upcoming releases like Starfield and Indiana Jones are safe from the multi-platform move.
This announcement follows weeks of speculation surrounding Xbox’s exclusivity approach. Reports hinted at titles like Indiana Jones and Starfield potentially venturing beyond Xbox consoles, sparking heated discussions within the gaming community.
Despite the multi-platform shift, Spencer emphasises that this is not a complete abandonment of exclusivity. He underscores the focus on the chosen four games and the valuable insights to be gained from this experiment. This leaves the door open for future iterations of these franchises or entirely new titles to remain console-exclusive.
Which Xbox games are going multi-platform?
So, what are the mystery games leaving Xbox’s nest? While official confirmation is pending, rumoured titles like Hi-Fi Rush, Pentiment, Sea of Thieves, and Grounded are strong contenders. Spencer himself suggests they are:
- Two older community-driven games: Titles that have matured within the Xbox and PC ecosystem and are ready for expansion.
- Two smaller non-flagship titles: Games not originally designed for the “platform exclusive fanfare” and now seeking wider reach.
This strategic move seems motivated by a desire to maximise the potential of these titles and generate resources for future projects. Spencer emphasises the ongoing support for creative endeavours across Xbox studios, regardless of size or platform.
The impact of this shift remains to be seen. Some may view it as a betrayal of the Xbox exclusive promise, while others might see it as a positive step towards wider availability and accessibility. Regardless, it’s a bold move that shakes up the traditional console vs. PC landscape and opens the door for exciting possibilities in the future.
