In a conversation with Game Developer during Gamescom LATAM, Shuhei Yoshida (previously with PlayStation) cautioned game creators against over-reliance on subscription platforms such as Xbox Game Pass. Yoshida expressed concern that these services might exert excessive influence, potentially determining the types of games developers would be allowed to produce.
Yoshida elaborated by stating that large corporations, often reluctant to invest in innovative game concepts with significant risks, typically guide their developers towards less risky genres or gameplay styles to please a potential subscriber-based audience.
Yoshida stated that relying solely on game subscriptions for playing can be risky, as the variety of games produced will essentially be controlled by the owners of these subscription platforms.
It’s extremely risky due to the need for continuous innovation among smaller developers, who often pioneer the future of game development. However, if large corporations control the creative process, I fear it won’t foster progress within the industry.
Yoshida similarly opines that Sony’s strategy with its subscription service, particularly in certain higher-tier offerings for PlayStation Plus, could potentially be more advantageous for developers and the sector as a whole. Despite conceding that his past experience with Sony may have influenced him somewhat positively towards the company, Yoshida also states that PlayStation Plus helps Sony to steer clear of excessive promises, all while motivating players to purchase games instead of delaying their acquisition until they’re added to the service.
In simpler terms, Yoshida suggests that Sony’s approach to subscriptions is a better choice because it avoids making overly ambitious promises and gives people the option to buy new games. He explains that as time passes, fewer people will be willing to pay the initial high price for these games. Therefore, they will eventually be added to the subscription service, allowing more people to try them before the next game in the series is released.
Regarding Sony’s rivals in the gaming console arena, Yoshida commends Microsoft for their dedication in implementing backwards compatibility on Xbox Series X/S. He acknowledges, “They certainly invested significant engineering resources to accomplish what they have managed.” On the other hand, Yoshida also appreciates Nintendo’s approach and the technology behind the Switch and its Joy-Con controllers, stating, “That’s incredibly shrewd. It’s deeply ingrained in their corporate culture to prioritize the requirements of families and friends.
It’s possible Yoshida raises valid concerns regarding Game Pass, but it’s worth noting that Microsoft views it as a thriving venture. In fact, during a conference call in January, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella highlighted the impressive growth of this subscription service, sharing that its user base increased by over 30 percent.
During the earnings call, Nadella stated that Game Pass has achieved a new quarterly revenue record and experienced over 30% growth in its PC subscriber base. He emphasized their efforts to increase fully paid subscribers across different platforms. Furthermore, he commended the positive critical reception for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle.
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2025-05-30 16:41