Over the past year, Microsoft has begun to actively release its games on competitors' platforms, including PlayStation. Despite the fact that some games are still Microsoft exclusives, Xbox CEO Phil Spencer says that exclusivity is no longer a priority. This was reported by Eurogamer.
In an interview with independent gaming journalist Dustin Legari, Phil Spencer said that he has no reason to say that Starfield, or any other Xbox game, will not appear on other platforms.
"I have no reason to put restrictions on any game and say that this game will not appear on platforms where it will find more players and where it will be a business success for us. Our strategy is to make games accessible. Game Pass is an important component for games on our platform, but not releasing games on other platforms? We don't think that's the way to go... That's definitely not the way to go for us. It's not going to work for us," Spencer said.
Spencer also noted that the release of the company's games on other platforms makes Xbox unique and reiterated the company's goal to make games available on all screens where possible and where people want to play.
Phil Spencer on Starfield exclusivity
— Destin (@DestinLegarie) January 25, 2025
Destin: "Can you solidify that Starfield is staying put for the time being?"
Spencer: "No."
Source: https://t.co/ccNXLG6GU5 pic.twitter.com/r6sfx9e193
In addition to this, Spencer commented on the concerns of the gaming community that due to the change in strategy and the release of exclusive games on other platforms, Xbox may lose its identity. However, he is optimistic that the company's new approach will help develop its identity.
"I hear them. I am quite active among our players, I am active in our community. I'm listening. And I believe that our identity will continue to evolve, which, frankly, it always has," Spencer said.
Spencer also commented on players' concerns about the safety of their game library and the ability to play purchased games despite changes in the company's strategy. He emphasized that Xbox demonstrates respect for players' purchases by offering backwards compatibility, crossplay, and the Xbox Play Anywhere initiative.