Xbox's Phil Spencer takes to Twitter to discuss IP expansion, sequels

Whenever a small studio starts their first IP or a major company like Microsoft Studios works with an outside team to diversify into yet another franchise, the biggest part of making games is the question of sequels. Should a sequel be considered, and if so, how will the team know if it’s reasonable? Xbox’s Phil Spencer discussed this on Twitter today.
When mentioned during a discussion of consumer investment in a character or franchise and the possible lack of any further games, Spencer had this to say:
“It’s the same with TV shows or movies. But we’ve also seen sequels that did as much hard as good. Balance is equally tough.”
He continued to discuss factors that contribute to the decision to pursue a sequel:
“Sales are part, IP has to have room to expand and team to expand.”
Elsewhere on Twitter, Spencer spoke on the issues facing new versus existing games. He mentioned the constant balancing act that comes with expanding a market. “Console gaming needs growth, doesn’t happen via existing games/markets. Old keeps core happy, new can grow market. Balance is key,” Spencer wrote.
After various discussions with community members on Twitter, Spencer had discussed not only covered how studios consider IP and franchise expansion, but also how a studio must balance new versus existing titles. Spencer’s last few tweets mention some ‘inside baseball’ of game publishing and how many games conceived don’t get published and many don’t even get publicized or announced.
Spencer regularly interacts with the Xbox community and aids in involving fans of the company to both support the current gaming landscape, but also enlighten them on the process and future of the Xbox ecosystem. For fans of newer games like ReCore, State of Decay, and the upcoming title Scalebound, this discussion is definitely worth a read and a great reference when hoping to see a sequel.
Source: Phil Spencer, via Twitter