The Gamecores website, during China Joy 2015, has recorded a quick nine-minute interview with Xbox’s Phil Spencer, who explains more about the ongoing strategy for Xbox. This interview sheds light on the future direction of Xbox, particularly in terms of game development and partnerships.
Focus on First-Party Franchises
In the interview, Spencer emphasizes that paying for third-party exclusives is not what Microsoft is looking for in the future of the Xbox game console. Instead, the focus will be on developing and investing in their own first-party franchises. This strategy aims to create a unique and compelling library of games that can only be found on Xbox.
Spencer elaborates on this point by saying:
My strategy is more around our own first-party franchises, and investing in franchises that we own. I want to have strong third-party relations, but paying for many third-party exclusives isn’t our long-term strategy.
This approach is designed to build a strong foundation of exclusive content that can drive console sales and foster a loyal player base. By investing in first-party titles, Microsoft aims to create a diverse and high-quality portfolio of games that can compete with other major players in the industry.
Strengthening Third-Party Relationships
While the primary focus is on first-party franchises, Spencer also acknowledges the importance of maintaining strong relationships with third-party developers. These partnerships are crucial for ensuring a steady stream of high-quality games for the Xbox platform. However, the strategy will not involve paying for exclusivity but rather fostering collaboration and mutual benefit.
For example, Microsoft has been working closely with various indie developers to bring unique and innovative games to the Xbox platform. This not only diversifies the game library but also supports smaller studios in reaching a broader audience. Titles like “Cuphead” and “Ori and the Blind Forest” are prime examples of successful collaborations that have enriched the Xbox ecosystem.
Expect more details to be made available during Gamescom next week and during the press conference that will be taking place ahead of Gamescom tomorrow on August 4th at 4 pm CEST and 10 am Eastern. This event is highly anticipated as it will provide further insights into Microsoft’s plans and upcoming releases.
In addition to the focus on first-party and third-party relationships, Microsoft is also investing in new technologies and services to enhance the gaming experience. The introduction of Xbox Game Pass, a subscription service that offers access to a vast library of games, is a testament to this commitment. This service not only provides value to gamers but also creates a recurring revenue stream for Microsoft.
Moreover, the integration of cloud gaming through Project xCloud allows players to stream games directly to their devices, breaking down barriers to entry and making gaming more accessible. This aligns with Microsoft’s vision of a future where gaming is not confined to a single device but can be enjoyed anywhere, anytime.
In conclusion, Phil Spencer’s interview at China Joy 2015 provides a clear picture of Microsoft’s strategy for the Xbox platform. By focusing on first-party franchises, strengthening third-party relationships, and investing in new technologies, Microsoft aims to create a robust and dynamic gaming ecosystem. As we look forward to more announcements at Gamescom, it is evident that the future of Xbox is poised for exciting developments.
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