Microsoft’s Xbox strategy has reader opinions split almost perfectly in half

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I posed a straightforward query to followers of Xbox on the Windows Central Gaming channel: Are you still enthusiastic about Xbox’s upcoming developments? Frankly, I wasn’t taken aback by the answers I received.

Approximately a year ago, Microsoft officially unveiled their intention to adapt Xbox exclusives for PlayStation. Initially, these reports seemed like baseless rumors, but they proved to be accurate. Known as Project Latitude, Microsoft disclosed that Grounded, Pentiment, Sea of Thieves, and Hi-Fi Rush would be released on PlayStation, originally exclusive to Xbox and Windows platforms. Since then, Microsoft has confirmed Indiana Jones, Age of Empires, and now Forza Horizon 5 for PlayStation, and we’ve received reliable information suggesting that even Gears of War and Halo could make their way onto PlayStation as well.

It’s understandable for Xbox enthusiasts to harbor doubts given the lack of console exclusives, as they may question the purpose of Xbox if it doesn’t offer unique experiences. However, Xbox head Phil Spencer has hinted that their strategy revolves around superior hardware and distinct features like Xbox Game Pass. Whether this approach will succeed is yet uncertain, as opinions among Xbox fans are divided on its potential success.

Are you still excited about the future of Xbox?March 19, 2025

I reached out to the followers, approximately 100,000, on our Twitter/X gaming account affiliated with Windows Central to inquire about their continued enthusiasm for Xbox’s upcoming plans.

This poll stemmed from a survey conducted during our Xbox podcast, where some former followers expressed their continued affection for the show, but chose to disassociate themselves from Xbox primarily due to Microsoft’s approach in their strategies.

In essence, if Xbox decides to stop expanding its console market, there might be a time when developers also choose to leave the platform. However, it’s important to note that this prediction hasn’t been realized yet, as Xbox appears to be gaining more support than ever in recent times. Interestingly, games traditionally linked with PlayStation, such as Genshin Impact and Death Stranding, have ultimately made their way onto Xbox. It’s also worth mentioning that the gaming industry has undergone significant changes, and PlayStation is now trying to attract new users by supporting Windows PC and Steam OS as well.

As it currently stands, a poll with over 6,000 votes reveals an almost even split: around half (49.9%) of the respondents remain enthusiastic about Xbox’s future, while a quarter express mixed feelings, which aligns with my own sentiments. Approximately one fifth (20.5%) have lost their initial excitement, stating they are no longer interested, and a small fraction (4%) indicated that they had no previous affinity for Xbox.

Xbox’s risky future

There’s still much to look forward to in Xbox’s upcoming plans. We’ve exclusively unveiled Project Kennan, a handheld device developed by ASUS, which is part of Xbox’s partnership efforts. Moreover, we’ve hinted at the possibility of an Xbox Series X successor and even an Xbox-specific handheld device, both projected for 2027. Jason Ronald, Xbox’s Vice President, has shared insights into Microsoft’s strategy to unify development pipelines between Xbox and Windows, aiming to streamline the process for developers. The appeal of services like Xbox Cloud Gaming, Xbox Play Anywhere, and Xbox Game Pass continues to keep users engaged within the ecosystem, despite a potential decrease in exclusive Xbox game releases.

During an internal meeting, Windows Central overheard comments suggesting that Xbox acknowledged its strategy last year was demanding for the brand. With gaming hours decreasing annually, game developers are finding it necessary to eliminate intermediaries and locate players directly. Xbox has managed to gain success on PlayStation, PC, and cloud-based gaming platforms to attract new gamers. However, it’s challenging to envision a situation where this approach doesn’t potentially jeopardize the sustainability of Xbox as a platform. Consequently, my personal opinion is somewhat mixed, but I’m not generally an optimist…

It’s been speculated that Xbox might revolutionize its strategy by incorporating Steam onto the next-gen Xbox, a move that could potentially transform Xbox into an affordable home Windows gaming system as it was originally intended two decades ago. If this happens, it could be just what the gaming market needs right now. However, only time will tell for certain.

Absolutely, the survey we conducted focuses solely on dedicated Xbox users. Most casual Xbox users or those who may potentially use Xbox are unlikely to frequent Windows Central. It’s fascinating to consider how our findings might resonate with a broader audience as time goes by.

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2025-03-25 13:09