Although it was a few days since the initial reports & leaks surfaced, it feels like weeks gone by with the wait until Microsoft properly addresses its plans for the future of Xbox. The catalyst of this was when titles including Hi-Fi Rush & Sea of Thieves were both claimed to face multiplatform releases moving forward. But, the list of titles do not end there.
In following updates, it was also reported that Bethesda Game Studio’s Starfield was also on that list as well. Other developments also note the highly-anticipated Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is also being considered too. Even for titles nowhere close to release are also mixed in the discourse. When pressed by VG24/7, Bethesda refused to comment on the exclusive release for Marvel’s Blade from Arkane Lyon.
Other concerns also manifested with growing updates on Microsoft’s effort to do away with physical games. Which segues to claims on Xbox consoles being shuttered altogether moving forward. In a thread from leaker @NateTheHate2, this is not the case. While not commenting on plans for tangible copies, he does tell that plans to disband Xbox manufacturing is untrue.
From the post, the leaker does notably press on Xbox Game Studios’ notion towards multiplatform releases for its first-party titles. And while he does say with confidence that Starfield is to hit other platforms, other ‘high profile’ franchises will remain on Xbox. “This report is accurate — Starfield will land on PlayStation,” he writes. Adding MS will bring select games multiplat. That I have confidence in.”
He continues on this talking point: “I can’t envision XGS games ala Forza Motorsport, Hellblade 2 or Avowed going multiplatform due to single-player focus. Starfield having discussions (hence the rumors) of going multiplatform make sense. Whether it comes to pass or not, we’ll soon learn.” As of late, other rumors suggesting Gears of War and even Halo were on the table for multiplatform. But, the leaker does elaborate that titles of the vein are not likely to make the jump to PlayStation.
Elsewhere in a similar development, Windows Central Gaming’s Jez Corden also extinguished growing rumors on the GameStop advertisement. In that, it was indicated that Xbox as a brand would be replaced by Microsoft via ‘Microsoft Game Pass’. But, it appears to be a typo on behalf of the retailer. You can read the full report by heading here.
What is your impression from this new development amid all the Xbox chatter?
