“Xbox Leader Highlights Evolving Identity in Response to Fan Perspectives on Multiplatform Gaming”

Xbox leader Phil Spencer stated that its brand identity is “transforming” as maintaining exclusive titles for its own platform is no longer “a route for [Xbox].”

When questioned by reputable gaming journalist Dustin Legarie regarding whether, like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Starfield would maintain an “exclusivity period” on Xbox systems, Spencer replied candidly: “No.”

“There’s no justification for me to create a barrier around any game and assert this title will not be accessible where it can reach players, where it can achieve commercial success for us,” Spencer articulated.

“Our approach is to make our games accessible.”

“Game Pass is a vital element of experiencing the games on our platform, but to restrict games from other platforms?” Spencer continued. “We don’t believe that’s the direction… that’s not a direction for us. It doesn’t function for us.”

“What we’re pursuing now we think truly allows us to establish the finest platform for the world’s greatest games. Because the world’s premier games are available across various venues, and increasingly creators are inquiring how we will remain connected when their game can be playable in so many different places, and we want Xbox to be wholly the platform that facilitates that.

“We believe that sets us apart. Whereas the other platforms in the market are single platform on one device, whether that’s PC, whether that’s mobile, or whether that’s a console.

And we want Xbox to serve as a platform that empowers creators across any screen that people prefer to play on.”

When pressed on whether Xbox’s change in strategy means it could also lose its identity, Spencer remained resolute on that point as well.

“I hear them. I’m quite engaged with our player base and active in the community. I pay attention. I think our identity will continue to progress, which, to be honest, it always has. But when I listen to concerns, I understand the worries are: is my library of games secure? Will I still be able to play the games? Over the years, I take pride in the commitment we’ve shown to honoring purchases on our platform through backward compatibility, cross entitlement, Xbox Play Anywhere, and crossplay. These efforts demonstrate our commitment to enabling people to continue to play, so I acknowledge that.

“I see the investments we’re making in the platform and how we want Xbox to remain accessible across various venues, and ensure your library is there.